最新美国发明专利第2014-07-15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
US08778690B2	Porous optical sensor with fiducial marker and method for detection of analytes The invention provides a porous sensor and sensing methods that use a porous sensor with a porous nanostructure having an optical response and having a portion of the porous nanostructure filled with a fiducial marker that is non-reactive to an analyte of interest. In a preferred sensing method, reflectance spectra from both the fiducial marker and reactive portions of the porous structure are acquired simultaneously. The fiducial marker provides an internal reference that permits compensation for humidity, as well as off angle measurements. In addition, simple visual observations can reveal the presence of an analyte, including human observations.
US08778689B1	Synthesis and use of chiral ionic liquids We disclose the synthesis and use of chiral ionic liquids based on a substituted pentose, furanose, hexose, or pyranose sugar. The compounds and processes to make or use them are provided.
US08778688B2	High-throughput methods for determining pharmacological levels of plasma D-serine Described herein are high-throughput methods of monitoring D-serine levels in plasma. The assay involves the use of strong cation solid phase extraction (SPE) to isolate D-serine from plasma, followed by quantitation of D-serine using the D-amino acid oxidase- (DAAO-) catalyzed reaction. Also described are methods of screening for compounds that act as DAAO inhibitors.
US08778687B2	Method and apparatus for determining the hematocrit of a blood sample utilizing the intrinsic pigmentation of hemoglobin contained within the red blood cells A method and apparatus for determining the hematocrit of a blood sample disposed within an analysis chamber, the method including the steps of: a) imaging at least a portion of the sample that contains one or more red blood cells and one or more areas void of red blood cells; b) determining a representative optical density value for a plurality of image units optically aligned with portions of the red blood cells, and assigning an optical density first boundary value to those image units; c) determining a representative optical density value of a plurality of image units optically aligned with the one or more regions of the sample devoid of red blood cells, and assigning a second optical density boundary value to those image units; and d) determining the hematocrit of the sample.
US08778685B2	Quantitative fluorescent protein standards The present invention provides dual labeled protein standards useful for the simultaneous determination of the molecular weight of a subject protein as well as the relative mass (i.e., amount) of the subject protein present in an electrophoresis lane. The invention is also directed to methods suitable for the preparation of such dual labeled protein standards and to methods of using such dual labeled proteins to simultaneously determine the molecular weight and the relative amount of a subject protein. Further embodiments are directed to the use dual labeled protein standards to make a more accurate determination of the amount of a protein present in an electrophoresis lane. Yet further embodiments are directed to kits containing the presently described dual protein standards. Dual labeled protein standards made and used in accordance with the embodiments set forth herein may be used to simultaneously determine the molecular weight and the relative amount of a subject protein in real time.
US08778680B2	Stable differentiation of NT2 cells A method of differentiating adult stem cells, such as those derived from a teratocarcinoma cell line, the Ntera2/D1 clone (NT2). The developed cells exhibit a stable neurotransmitter phenotype without the required use of growth factors or retinoic acid in differentiation process, which may be difficult to completely remove during commercial production. An identification of specific neurotransmitters is possible in these differentiated NT2-derived neurons (NT2-N) after 30 days in culture or 30 days survival in vivo. The invention includes a method to stably differentiate neuronal stem/precursor cells to a neuronal phenotype for use in cell replacement therapy for neurodegenerative disease, stroke or spinal cord injury. At least four different types of neurons are produced from this method of differentiation: dopaminergic, cholinergic, GABAergic and glutaminergic. Additionally, since the cells are a cancer stem cell prior to differentiation, they may serve as a model system for developing anti-cancer therapies aimed at the cancer stem cell, rather than the more differentiated daughter cell.
US08778679B2	Umbilical cord lining stem cells and methods and material for isolating and culturing same Human umbilical cord lining stem cells that are capable of differentiating into cells of the mesodermal lineage and ectodermal lineage are described, as well as methods of isolating, expanding, culturing, and cryopreserving such cells.
US08778671B2	Construction of West Nile virus and dengue virus chimeras for use in a live virus vaccine to prevent disease caused by West Nile virus The present invention relates to attenuated, immunogenic West Nile virus chimeras built on a dengue virus backbone for the production of immunogenic, live, attenuated West Nile virus vaccines.
US08778670B2	Method and apparatus for preparing cells for microtome sectioning and archiving nucleic acids and proteins A method and apparatus for embedding cells that utilizes a flow-through embedding technique. The apparatus includes a cell flow pathway defined by an inflow tube for delivering cell fragments from a cell sample to a sample port. The sample port is in fluid communication with a tissue cassette having attached thereto a filter. The cell flow pathway is in communication with a reagent flow pathway for delivering the reagents through the sample port to the cassette. The apparatus is configured such that the application of pressure directs the cell fragments from the cell sample through the cell flow pathway, and effects delivery of the reagents through the reagent flow pathway. The apparatus produces an embedded cell block having concentrated cells near the plane of the block to be sectioned in a quick and efficient manner.
US08778669B2	Multilayer tissue culture vessel The present invention discloses a vessel for culturing cells which includes: a bottom including a base with an upwardly extending wall at least partially bounding the base of the bottom; a top including a base with a downwardly extending wall at least partially bounding the base of the top; a tubular neck with an opening defined therein; and, one or more shelves, wherein, each shelf includes a base with an upwardly extending wall at least partially bounding the base of the shelf. The upwardly extending wall of a first shelf adjoins the downwardly extending wall of the top with the first shelf being located intermediate the bottom and the top. The base of each of the shelves having at least one aperture formed therein. The bottom, the top and the one or more shelves collectively define an enclosed volume for culturing cells. The tubular neck extends from the vessel with the enclosed volume being accessible by the opening in the tubular neck. Advantageously, this vessel provides high volume cell culture in a manner that increases efficiency and reduces the cost of culturing cells.
US08778668B1	Self-contained deployable automatic factory built ethanol production plant The present invention provides a modular ethanol production plant constructed of a number of identically sized modules each having a supporting structure main framework to which the components contained in the modules are attached. The plurality of modules includes a fermentation module, a distillation module, a ground grain module, or a sugar source feedstock module, and an optional heating module. Each of the modules are sized to occupy the same approximate space as a standard sized ocean going shipping container. Also, each of the modules has a central walkway including piping and electrical control boxes that are aligned for each connection to the next adjacent module.
US08778665B2	Detection and quantification of analytes in bodily fluids This invention is in the field of medical devices. Specifically, the present invention provides portable medical devices that allow detection of analytes from a biological fluid. The methods and devices are particularly useful for providing point-of-care testing for a variety of medical applications.
US08778661B2	Biological composite and method for reducing H2S A biological composite and method for reducing H2S are disclosed. The biological composite for reducing H2S includes a carrier and Thermus sp. immobilized on the carrier. Therefore, if a sample containing H2S has contact with Thermus sp. or the carrier with Thermus sp. immobilized thereon, the amount of H2S can be reduced.
US08778658B2	Biological methods for preparing adipic acid The technology relates in part to biological methods for producing adipic acid and engineered microorganisms capable of such production.
US08778657B1	Culture medium for cultivation of microorganisms The present invention discloses culture medium unit doses for cultivating microorganisms comprising at least two compositions, each composition packaged in a composition unit dose of a predetermined amount, the composition unit doses being used for combining one of each composition unit dose forming the culture medium unit dose. The composition unit doses being packaged separately and individually until a time the culture medium unit dose is to be prepared for use for cultivation of microorganisms, wherein the time one of each composition unit dose are combined thereby forming the culture medium unit dose. The invention also discloses a method of manufacturing the composition unit doses, and a kit for cultivating microorganisms, the kit comprising a combination of the composition unit doses.
US08778656B2	Organic acid production in microorganisms by combined reductive and oxidative tricaboxylic acid cylce pathways This invention relates to succinic acid production from renewable feedstock using microbial biocatalysts genetically modified to produce succinic acid in commercially significant quantities. More specifically, this invention relates to the genetic manipulations in the pathway of carbon from renewable feedstock to succinic acid.
US08778653B2	Method for reducing DNA impurities in viral compositions A method for purification of viral compositions is provided. In particular, a method for reduction of unwanted residual DNA in a viral composition while retaining the immunogenicity of the virus itself is provided. The resulting immunogenic viral composition is substantially free of residual DNA, and is useful for the manufacture of medical products, such as vaccines designed for human or animal.
US08778652B2	Pentose fermentation by a recombinant microorganism The present invention provides recombinant nucleic acid constructs comprising a xylose isomerase polynucleotide, a recombinant fungal host cell comprising a recombinant xylose isomerase polynucleotide, and related methods.
US08778649B2	Use of acidothermus cellulolyticus xylanase for hydrolyzing lignocellulose A thermophilic endo-beta-1,4-xylanase derived from Acidothermus cellulolyticus is disclosed. The xylanase exhibits xylanase activity at an optimal temperature of 90° C. and an optimal pH range of about 4.5-6.0. The isolated xylanase is useful in the hydrolysis of lignocellulosic material.
US08778648B2	Enzymes for reduced immunological stress Compositions suitable for oral administration to an animal comprising at least one immune stress-reducing enzyme in an amount effective to decrease the level of positive acute phase protein in an animal, increase the level of negative acute phase protein in an animal, and/or improve animal growth performance is provided, as are methods using such compositions. The compositions include animal feed compositions, liquid compositions other than animal feed, and solid compositions other than animal feed.
US08778645B2	Method for the production of glutaconate The present invention relates to a novel method for the biocatalytic production of unsaturated dicarboxylic acids by cultivating a recombinant microorganism co-expressing a glutaconate CoA-transferase and a 2-hydroxyglutaryl-CoA dehydratase system. The present invention also relates to corresponding recombinant hosts, recombinant vectors, expression cassettes and nucleic acids suitable for preparing such hosts as well as a method of preparing polyamide or polyester copolymers making use of said dicarboxylic acids as obtained by said biocatalytic production method.
US08778639B1	Polypeptides having endoglucanase activity and polynucleotides encoding same The present invention relates to isolated polypeptides having endoglucanase activity and polynucleotides encoding the polypeptides. The invention also relates to nucleic acid constructs, vectors, and host cells comprising the polynucleotides as well as methods of producing and using the polypeptides.
US08778638B2	Phased genome sequencing The present disclosure provides methods for determining phased nucleic acid sequence for a single chromosome of interest and/or a single chromosomal fragment of interest. The present disclosure also provides methods for determining phased nucleic acid sequence for a plurality of single chromosomes of interest and/or a plurality of single chromosomal fragments of interest. The plurality of single chromosomes of interest may be of one or more chromosome types. The present disclosure also provides a method for isolating a plurality of chromosomal fragments of a specified size range, where the chromosomal fragments are from one or more specified regions of the genome. The plurality of chromosomal fragments may be separated into single chromosomal fragments and sequenced to provide phased nucleic acid sequence for the single chromosomal fragments. Alternatively, the plurality of chromosomal fragments may be sequenced together to provide unphased nucleic acid sequence for the chromosomal fragments.
US08778625B2	2-(2-hydroxybiphenyl-3-yl)-1H-Benzoimidazole-5-carboxamidine derivatives as factor VIIA inhibitors The present invention relates to novel inhibitors of Factors VIIa, IXa, Xa, XIa, in particular Factor VIIa, pharmaceutical compositions comprising these inhibitors, and methods for using these inhibitors for treating or preventing thromboembolic disorders, cancer or rheumatoid arthritis. Processes for preparing these inhibitors are also disclosed.
US08778621B2	Phosphodiesterase 4D7 as marker for malignant, hormone-sensitive prostate cancer The present invention relates to phosphodiesterase 4D7 (PDE4D7) for use as a marker for malignant, hormone-sensitive prostate cancer, wherein the expression of the marker is increased when comparing the expression in malignant, hormone-sensitive prostate cancer tissue, to the expression in normal tissue or benign prostate tumor tissue, and the use of PDE4D7 as a diagnostic marker for malignant, hormone-sensitive prostate cancer. The present invention also relates to a composition for diagnosing, detecting, monitoring or prognosticating malignant, hormone-sensitive prostate cancer, a corresponding detection method, a method allowing to discriminate between a benign and malignant hormone-sensitive prostate cancer and a method of data acquisition, as well as corresponding immunoassays. The present invention also relates to a method of identifying an individual for eligibility for malignant, hormone-sensitive prostate cancer as well as an immunoassay for stratifying an individual with such prostate cancer. The present invention further envisages pharmaceutical compositions and their use for the treatment of malignant, hormone-sensitive prostate cancer.
US08778615B2	Methods and compositions for diagnosis and prognosis of renal injury and renal failure The present invention relates to methods and compositions for monitoring, diagnosis, prognosis, and determination of treatment regimens in subjects suffering from or suspected of having a renal injury. In particular, the invention relates to using assays that detect one or more markers selected from the group consisting of Cytoplasmic aspartate aminotransferase, soluble Tumor necrosis factor receptor superfamily member 5, soluble CD40 Ligand, soluble C-X-C Motif chemokine 16, S100-A12, Eotaxin, soluble E-selectin, Fibronectin, Granulocyte colony-stimulating factor, Granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor, Heparin-binding growth factor 2, soluble Hepatocyte growth factor receptor, Interleukin-1 receptor antagonist, Interleukin-1 beta, Interleukin-10, Interleukin-15, Interleukin-3, Myeloperoxidase, Nidogen-1, soluble Oxidized low-density lipoprotein receptor 1, Pappalysin-1, soluble P-selectin glycoprotein ligand 1, Antileukoproteinase, soluble Kit ligand, Tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase 1, Tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase 2, soluble Tumor necrosis factor, soluble Vascular cell adhesion molecule 1, and Vascular endothelial growth factor A as diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers in renal injuries.
US08778614B2	Assays for detecting modified compounds Provided are methods and compositions which are useful for separating, isolating, detecting, and quantifying compounds of interest which have been modified chemically, enzymatically or catalytically from other compounds which have not been so modified. The modifications may take the form of functional groups which are gained, lost or retained by the compounds of interest.
US08778604B2	Mask set for double exposure process and method of using the mask set A mask set for double exposure process and method of using said mask set. The mask set is provided with a first mask pattern having a first base and a plurality of first teeth and protruding portions, and a second mask pattern having a second base and a plurality of second teeth, wherein the second base may at least partially overlap the first base such that each of the protruding portions at least partially overlaps one of the second teeth.
US08778603B2	Method and system for modifying substrate relief features using ion implantation A method of treating resist features comprises positioning, in a process chamber, a substrate having a set of patterned resist features on a first side of the substrate and generating a plasma in the process chamber having a plasma sheath adjacent to the first side of the substrate. The method may further comprise modifying a shape of a boundary between the plasma and the plasma sheath with a plasma sheath modifier so that a portion of the shape of the boundary is not parallel to a plane defined by a front surface of the substrate facing the plasma, wherein ions from the plasma impinge on the patterned resist features over a wide angular range during a first exposure.
US08778602B2	Single photoresist approach for high challenge photo process A method of lithography patterning includes coating a resist layer on a substrate; performing an exposing process to the resist layer using a lithography tool with a numerical aperture tuned between about 0.5 and about 0.6; baking the resist layer; thereafter performing a first developing process to the resist layer for a first period of time; and performing a second developing process to the resist layer for a second period of time.
US08778600B2	Method of manufacturing high resolution organic thin film pattern A method of forming a high resolution organic thin film pattern, the method including forming a first organic layer on a substrate; selectively removing the first organic layer by selectively irradiating light energy onto the first organic layer, and forming a remaining part of the first organic layer as a sacrifice layer; forming a second organic layer on the substrate and the entire surface of the sacrifice layer; and lifting off the second organic layer formed on the sacrifice layer by removing the sacrifice layer using a solvent, and forming the remaining second organic layer as a second organic layer pattern.
US08778594B2	Resist composition and method for producing resist pattern A resist composition having a resin having a structural unit represented by the formula (I), a resin being insoluble or poorly soluble in alkali aqueous solution, but becoming soluble in an alkali aqueous solution by the action of an acid and not including the structural unit represented by the formula (I), an acid generator, and a compound represented by the formula (II), wherein R1, A1, A13, A14, X12, R23, R24, R25, R26, X21 and X22 are defined in the specification.
US08778589B2	Digital manufacture of an optical waveguide The electrographic printing of one or more multi-channeled layers having a particular pattern by electrographic techniques that produces a three-dimensional optical waveguide electrographically. Such electrographic printing comprises the steps of forming a desired print image, electrographically, on a receiver member utilizing predetermined sized marking particles; and, where desired, forming one or more final multi-channeled layers utilizing marking particles of a predetermined size or size distribution.
US08778585B2	Toner A toner with good low-temperature fixability even in light-pressure type fixing units, which causes no contamination of fixing films and provides images having stable image densities and excellent image quality after long-term use. The toner includes a toner particle containing a binder resin, a coloring agent, a release agents (a) and (b) The release agent (a) is a monofunctional or bifunctional ester wax; the release agent (b) is a hydrocarbon wax; a solubility of the release agent (a) into the binder resin is higher than that of the release agent (b). When tetrahydrofuran-soluble components of the toner are subjected to GPC, a proportion of components having a molecular weight of 500 or less is 2.5 area % or less. When the tetrahydrofuran-soluble components at 25° C. are subjected to SEC-MALLS, a weight-average molecular weight Mw thereof is 5,000-100,000, and the Mw and the radius of gyration Rw thereof satisfy 5.0×10−4≦Rw/Mw≦1.0×10−2.
US08778583B2	Toner, developer, image forming apparatus, and process cartridge A toner including a mother particle and an external additive covering a surface of the mother particle is provided. The mother particle includes a binder resin, a colorant, and a release agent. The external additive includes a particulate cellulose having a number average particle diameter within a range of 15 to 105 nm.
US08778580B2	Electrophotographic photosensitive member, process cartridge, and electrophotographic apparatus An electrophotographic photosensitive member having a specific conductive layer and promising less variation in light-area potential and residual potential in reproducing images repeatedly, and a process cartridge and an electrophotographic apparatus which have such an electrophotographic photosensitive member are provided. Where a test in which a voltage of −1.0 kV having only a DC voltage component is continuously applied to the conductive layer for 1 hour is conducted, the conductive layer has volume resistivity satisfying the following mathematical expressions (1) and (2), as values before and after the test: −2.00≦(log\|ρ2\|−log\|ρ1\|)≦2.00 (1), and 1.0×108≦ρ1≦2.0×1013 (2), where, in the expressions (1) and (2), ρ1 is volume resistivity (Ω·cm) of the conductive layer as measured before the test and ρ2 is volume resistivity (Ω·cm) of the conductive layer as measured after the test.
US08778579B2	Electrophotographic photoreceptor having excellent lifetime characteristics and charge uniformity, and electrophotographic image forming apparatus and electrophotographic cartridge using the electrophotographic photo receptor Provided is a laminate type electrophotographic photoreceptor including an electrically conductive substrate, and an undercoat layer, a charge generation layer, and a charge transport layer sequentially disposed on the electrically conductive substrate, in which a characteristic response time of the photoreceptor is about 10 msec or more and about 85 msec or less and a thickness of the charge transport layer is greater than about 18 μm and equal to or less than about 45 μm. Also, an electrophotographic image forming apparatus and an electrophotographic cartridge using the electrophotographic photoreceptor are provided. An electrophotographic photoreceptor according to the present general inventive concept has an improved response time and thus, charge stain characteristics are excellent even when a thick charge transport layer is selected. Therefore, the electrophotographic photoreceptor of the present general inventive concept may have both excellent lifetime characteristics and excellent charge stain characteristics.
US08778576B2	Exposure method and exposure device In an exposure method, a photomask and a substrate having a resist applied thereto are positioned so as to be opposed to a blinking light source that repeatedly emits light and emits no light. The blinking light source is caused to blink with the substrate being continuously conveyed in a direction orthogonal to a direction in which openings in the photomask are aligned, so that multiple exposures are intermittently performed. In each exposure, a speed at which the substrate is conveyed is controlled such that the openings of the photomask overlap a portion of exposed patterns having been obtained by an immediately preceding exposure, thereby obtaining colored layers which are formed into a striped-shape and extend in the direction in which the substrate is conveyed.
US08778566B2	Metal separator plate for fuel cell having coating film formed on surface and method for producing same Disclosed herein is a method for manufacturing a metal steel separator for fuel cells that has corrosion resistance and contact resistance not only at an initial stage but also after being exposed to high temperature/high humidity conditions in the fuel cell for a long period of time. The method includes preparing a stainless steel sheet as a matrix of the metal separator, forming a discontinuous coating film on the surface of the stainless steel sheet, the coating film being composed of at least one selected from gold (Au), platinum (Pt), ruthenium (Ru), iridium (Ir), ruthenium oxide (RuO2), and iridium oxide (IrO2), and heat treating the stainless steel sheet having the discontinuous coating film to form an oxide film on a portion of the stainless steel sheet on which the coating film is not formed. A metal separator for fuel cells manufactured by the method is also disclosed.
US08778560B2	Mixed ionic and electronic conductor based on Sr2Fe2-xM0XO6 perovskite In accordance with the present disclosure, a method for fabricating a symmetrical solid oxide fuel cell is described. The method includes synthesizing a composition comprising perovskite and applying the composition on an electrolyte support to form both an anode and a cathode.
US08778559B2	Solid oxide fuel cell and method for producing the same An object of the present invention is to provide a fuel cell preventing formation of a diffusion layer containing Ca and other elements, and having an excellent power generation performance at low temperature by preventing breakdown of a crystal structure of an electrolyte by firing. Disclosed is a solid oxide fuel cell which includes a fuel electrode, a solid electrolyte, and an air electrode, each being sequentially laminated on the surface of a porous support. The porous support contains forsterite, and further has a calcium element (Ca) content of more than 0.2 mass % but not more than 2 mass % in terms of CaO.
US08778553B2	Fuel cell A fuel cell includes a membrane electrode assembly and an anode side metal separator and a cathode side metal separator sandwiching the membrane electrode assembly. An oxygen-containing gas flows in an oxygen-containing gas flow field in a horizontal direction. A coolant flows in a coolant flow field in a vertical direction. The coolant flow field is connected to coolant supply passages and coolant discharge passages. The opening of one of the coolant supply passages and the opening of one of the coolant discharge passages are smaller than those of the other coolant supply passages and the other coolant discharge passages in cross section, respectively. Thus, the flow rate of the coolant supplied to an area near outlets of the oxygen-containing gas flow field and the fuel gas flow field become smaller than the flow rate of the coolant supplied to the other area.
US08778551B2	Fluid flow pulsing for increased stability in PEM fuel cell A fuel cell system includes a fuel cell stack and a flow control device that controls a supply of a first phase fluid flowing through the fuel cell stack. A controller monitors at least one parameter of the fuel cell stack and controls the supply to generate pulses of reactant when the at least one parameter crosses a threshold to flush a second phase fluid from said fuel cell stack.
US08778549B2	Fuel cell system An IR resistance of each of unit cells is measured, and a highest unit cell voltage as a threshold voltage is set based on the IR resistance and load current. The setting of the highest unit cell voltage uses map data that approximates current-voltage characteristics of a unit cell when the fuel gas is insufficiently supplied. In that case, the highest unit cell voltage is determined based on the voltage with respect to the load current obtained from the map data, and the IR loss calculated from the IR resistance and the load current. This highest unit cell voltage is compared with the measured unit cell voltage. If the unit cell voltage is below the highest unit cell voltage, the power generation of the fuel cell is stopped or restrained.
US08778547B2	Power generating system A power generating system of the present invention includes: a package (70); a power generator (1); a combustible gas passage (23); a first device configured to operate by a first voltage using a DC power generated by the power generator (1); a second power supply circuit (13) configured to generate the DC power of the first voltage; a first connecting unit (8) arranged between the first device and the second power supply circuit (13); a control circuit (7) configured to control the first device using the DC power of the first voltage; and a first power supply circuit (11) configured to generate a power of a second voltage higher than the first voltage, and the package (70) is divided by a dividing wall (71) into a first space (72) in which the power generator (1), the combustible gas passage (23), the first device, the first connecting unit (8), and the control circuit (7) are arranged and a second space (73) in which the first power supply circuit (11) and the second power supply circuit (13) are arranged.
US08778546B2	Air breathing lithium power cells A cell suitable for use in a battery according to one embodiment includes a catalytic oxygen cathode; a stabilized zirconia electrolyte for selective oxygen anion transport; a molten salt electrolyte; and a lithium-based anode. A cell suitable for use in a battery according to another embodiment includes a catalytic oxygen cathode; an electrolyte; a membrane selective to molecular oxygen; and a lithium-based anode.
US08778545B2	Recirculation complex for increasing yield from fuel cell with CO2 capture A system and method are provided for boosting overall performance of a fuel cell while simultaneously separating a nearly pure stream of CO2 for sequestration or for use in generating electrical power to further increase overall efficiency of the process. The system and method employ a heat exchanger system configured to generate a stream of fuel that is returned to the inlet of the fuel cell anode with a higher molar concentration of carbon monoxide (CO) and hydrogen (H2) fuel than was initially present in the fuel cell anode outlet.
US08778544B2	Battery with terminal Disclosed is a battery with terminal, including a power generating element and a housing can accommodating the power generating element. The power generating element includes a positive electrode, a negative electrode, a separator interposed between the positive electrode and the negative electrode, and a non-aqueous electrolyte. The negative electrode includes a material mixture including a negative electrode active material and a binder. The negative electrode active material contains an amorphous Si phase, and the binder includes a polyacrylic acid. The non-aqueous electrolyte includes a non-aqueous solvent, and a lithium salt dissolved in the non-aqueous solvent, and the non-aqueous solvent contains vinylethylene carbonate. The housing can has at least one lead terminal welded thereto. The molar ratio of the vinylethylene carbonate to the amorphous Si phase in the negative electrode active material is 0.09 to 0.17.
US08778543B2	Sulfide-based lithium-ion-conducting solid electrolyte glass, all-solid lithium secondary battery, and method for manufacturing all-solid lithium secondary battery A sulfide-based lithium-ion-conducting solid electrolyte glass is formed from sulfide-based lithium-ion-conducting solid electrolyte, and α-alumina.
US08778537B2	Device and electrode having nanoporous graphite with lithiated sulfur for advanced rechargeable batteries Methods, systems and devices are implemented in connection with rechargeable batteries. One such device includes a cathode that has lithiated sulfur. The device also includes a porous structure having pores containing the lithium-sulfide particles introduced during a manufacturing stage thereof.
US08778530B2	Battery and battery pack using the same A battery includes a case, an electrode assembly located within the case and comprising first and second electrodes, a first terminal electrically connected with the first electrode, and a second terminal electrically connected with the second electrode. The first and second terminals project through the case. One of the first and second terminals has first and second connection formations. The first and second connection formations have mutually different shapes and are located on respectively different aspects of the case.
US08778518B2	Battery pack A battery pack includes a bare cell sealed by a cap plate, a circuit board disposed on the cap plate, a cover coupled to the cap plate, and a size control unit formed between the upper cover and the circuit board.
US08778513B2	Perovskite manganese oxide thin film An article including a perovskite manganese (Mn) oxide thin film, includes a substrate having an oriented perovskite structure that is (m10) oriented, where 19≧m≧2, and having an [100] axis direction; and a perovskite manganese (Mn) oxide thin film having a perovskite crystal lattice containing barium Ba and a rare earth element Ln in A sites of the perovskite crystal lattice, the perovskite manganese (Mn) oxide thin film being formed on the substrate so as to cover at least part of a surface of the substrate, and having atomic planes stacked in a pattern of LnO—MnO2—BaO—MnO2-LnO . . . in the [100] axis direction of the substrate. The perovskite manganese (Mn) oxide thin film provided thoroughly exploits the resistance changes caused by charge and orbital ordering in the perovskite manganese oxide.
US08778511B2	OLED stability via doped hole transport layer An organic light emitting device is provided. The device includes an anode and a cathode. A first organic layer is disposed between the anode and the cathode. The first organic layer is an emissive layer that includes a first organic emitting material. The device also includes a second organic layer disposed between the anode and the first organic layer. The second organic layer is a non-emissive layer. The second organic layer includes an organic small molecule hole transport material having a concentration of 50 to 99 wt %, and an organic small molecule electron transport material having a concentration of 0.1 to 5 wt %. Other materials may be present.
US08778508B2	Light-emitting organometallic complexes Novel organometallic compounds are provided, which include a 2-phenylpyridine iridium (Irppy) complex having alkyl and/or aryl substituted ligands and a heteroleptic or a homoleptic nature. These materials may be advantageously used in OLEDs to tune evaporation temperature and solubility, narrow emission, and increase device efficiency.
US08778499B2	Coating composition for solar heat-collecting reflector, and solar heat-collecting reflector and process for its production To provide a coating composition for back coating, by which, in a solar heat-collecting reflector, a cured coating film layer excellent in durability such as heat resistance or water resistance and excellent in weather resistance, scratch resistance and impact resistance, can be formed, and a solar heat-collecting reflector having such a cured coating film layer. A coating composition for back coating to be used for the production of a solar heat-collecting reflector, which comprises a fluoropolymer (A) having units (A1) derived from a fluoroolefin and units (A2) having a crosslinkable group. A solar heat-collecting reflector having a cured coating film layer formed by the coating composition.
US08778495B2	Phenol-formaldehyde novolac resin having low concentration of free phenol A phenol-formaldehyde novolac resin having a low concentration of free phenol prepared by distilling residual phenol from a molten novolac resin and replacing at least a portion of the phenol with a solvent having a volatility equal to or less than phenol. Such modified novolac resins are suitable for the production of resin coated molding sands for shell molding and sand cores, as well as for the production of resin coated proppants for use in oil and gas recovery operations.
US08778493B2	IR-reflecting compositions A composition comprising multistage polymeric particles having an average particle diameter from 0.5 to 15 μm and a Vicker's scale hardness from 100 to 700 Kgf/mm2; and a film-forming polymer having Tg no greater than 80° C. The refractive index difference measured from 400 nm to 800 nm between the polymeric particles and the film-forming polymer is no greater than 0.02 and the average refractive index difference measured from 800 nm to 2500 nm between the polymeric particles and the film-forming polymer is at least 0.04.
US08778491B2	Coated article and method for manufacturing same A coated article is described. The coated article includes a substrate, a titanium bonding layer, a titanium-chromium alloy transition layer, and a titanium-chromium-nitrogen hard layer formed thereon, and in that order. The titanium bonding layer is a titanium layer. The titanium-chromium alloy transition layer is a titanium-chromium alloy layer. The titanium-chromium-nitrogen hard layer is a titanium-chromium-nitrogen layer. The titanium bonding layer, titanium-chromium alloy transition layer, and the titanium-chromium-nitrogen hard layer are formed by ion beam assisted sputtering.
US08778490B2	Absorbent composite material comprising water-absorbent resin particles having specific surface strength, and method for manufacturing the same An absorbent composite comprising: a base material and water-absorbent resin particles; wherein the following conditions (1) to (4) are fulfilled: (1) the weight ratio of water-absorbent resin relative to the total weight of the base material and water-absorbent resin is 65 to 99 wt %, (2) the water-absorbent resin particles adhering directly to the base material constitute 50 wt % or more of the total water-absorbent resin particles; (3) the average absorption capacity of the water-absorbent resin particles is 50 g/g or more; and (4) the amount of residual monomers in the water-absorbent resin is 200 ppm or less.
US08778489B2	Optical layered product An optical layered product has a translucent substrate having at least an optically functional layer, containing translucent microparticles, provided directly or via another layer onto one or both sides of the substrate. The standard deviation of area dispersion variability of the translucent microparticles in the optically functional layer is in the range of 0.04 to 0.20.
US08778486B2	Polycarbonate resin and transparent film formed therefrom The polycarbonate resin of the invention includes a first structural unit derived from a dihydroxy compound represented by a general formula (1), a second structural unit derived from a dihydroxy compound represented by a general formula (2), and a third structural unit derived from at least one dihydroxy compound selected from the group consisting of a dihydroxy compound represented by a general formula (3), a dihydroxy compound represented by a general formula (4), a dihydroxy compound represented by a general formula (5), and a dihydroxy compound represented by a general formula (6), and in which the first structural unit derived from a dihydroxy compound represented by the general formula (1) accounts for 18% by mole or more of the polycarbonate resin. The above general formulae (1) to (6) are described in the specification of the present application.
US08778480B2	Vehicle floor mats A vehicle floor mat includes cutting grooves for severing and removing at least one section of a peripheral portion of the mat. The cutting grooves are arranged to define a plurality of distinct outer contours so that the vehicle floor mat is compatible with a plurality of different vehicle models. The vehicle floor mat can further include apertures arranged to receive the anchors of each of the different vehicle models. Each of the different vehicle models can be selected from different models of a particular vehicle manufacturer. The vehicle floor mat can be compatible with at least five different vehicle models.
US08778479B2	Pre-form and method of preparing a pre-form A pre-form and a method of preparing pre-forms are provided. The pre-forms comprise a resin and at least two layers of oriented fiber tows. The pre-forms comprise fiber tows instead of the traditional prepregs to enhance rearranging of resin and/or fibers during subsequent processing as well as provide greater freedom, a price reduction and/or a reduction of waste. The pre-forms may be formed three-dimensionally to enhance coupling to further pre-forms or other structures and/or to enhance shaping of the pre-form to a final three-dimensional shape. The method of preparation of pre-forms involves providing an adhesive between layers of fibers and providing a resin in contact with at least one of the layers of fibers. The resin is preferably provided in a non-continuous layer to allow for removal of gas at least partially in a direction orthogonal to the layers of resin. The pre-forms are suitable for preparation of composite structures like for example spars for wind turbine blades.
US08778477B2	Vacuum insulation member, refrigerator having vacuum insulation member, and method for fabricating vacuum insulation member Disclosed are a vacuum insulation member, a refrigerator having a vacuum insulation member, and a method for fabricating a vacuum insulation member. The vacuum insulation member includes: an envelope having gas impermeability and having a certain decompressed space therein; and a core having a certain shape, having an empty space formed therein, and disposed at an inner side of the envelope to support the envelope. The use of a glass fiber core can be avoided, and thus, employing equipment for preprocessing the glass fiber core and time required therefor can be restrained and fabrication can be facilitated.
US08778475B2	Patch for an underwire brassiere A patch covers a hole created on a fabric when a wire of an underwire bra breaks through, poking the delicate skin around the breast of a woman. The patch includes an outer layer made of a laminate material, an inner layer made of a close knit material. The outer layer may completely encase the inner layer.
US08778472B2	Refrigerant transporting hose and polyamide resin composition for forming gas barrier layer of the same A durable refrigerant transporting hose is provided which includes a gas barrier layer made of a polyamide resin composition, and prevented from being degraded by the refrigerant or compressor oil. A refrigerant transporting hose 1 including a gas barrier layer 2 made of a polyamide resin composition. The polyamide resin composition contains at least one metal compound selected from the group consisting of hydroxides, oxides and carbonates of divalent and trivalent metals in an amount of 1% to 15% by weight relative to the total amount of the metal compound and the polymer component. An olefin elastomer may be added to the polyamide resin composition to enhance the flexibility and durability.
US08778470B2	Multi-layer bottle There is provided a multilayer bottle including outermost and innermost layers each made mainly of a polyester (A) and at least one barrier layer interposed between the outermost and innermost layers. The polyester (A) is a thermoplastic resin obtained by polymerizing a dicarboxylic acid component containing 80 mol % or more of terephthalic acid with a diol component containing 80 mol % or more of ethylene glycol. The barrier layer is composed of a polyamide (B) and a polyamide (C). The polyamide (B) is obtained by polycondensing a diamine component containing 70 mol % or more of m-xylylenediamine with a dicarboxylic acid component containing 70 mol % or more of an α,ω-linear aliphatic dicarboxylic acid having 4 to 20 carbon atoms. The polyamide (C) has a higher saturation water content than that of the polyamide (B) as measured at 23° C. and 50% RH under 1 atm, and a content of the polyamide (C) in the barrier layer is 20% by weight or less on the basis of a weight of the barrier layer. The multilayer bottle hardly suffers from delamination upon dropping or upon exposure to impact and, therefore, is not required to have a shape with less irregularities or less bends for preventing the delamination, and further has a large freedom of design choice.
US08778469B2	Electronic device and method for manufacturing same When local heating by use of laser sealing or the like is applied, the bonding strength between glass substrates and a sealing layer is improved to provide an electronic device having increased reliability. An electronic device includes a first glass substrate, a second glass substrate, and a sealing layer to seal an electronic element portion disposed between these glass substrates. The sealing layer is a layer obtained by locally heating a sealing material by an electromagnetic wave, such as laser light or infrared light, to melt-bond the sealing material, the sealing material containing sealing glass, a low-expansion filler and an electromagnetic wave absorber. In the first and second glass substrates, each reacted layer is produced to have a maximum depth of at least 30 nm from an interface with the sealing layer.
US08778468B2	Metalized printable recording medium A metalized printable recording medium including a porous metallic reflective top layer, a porous ink-absorbing layer and a bottom supporting substrate. Method to form such printable recording medium and method to form printed images on the metalized printable recording medium are also disclosed.
US08778467B2	Recording medium Provided is a recording medium including an ink-receiving layer containing an inorganic pigment and a binder on at least one surface of a substrate. The ink-receiving layer contains a compound including zirconium, silicon, and at least one element selected from Group 2 and Group 3 elements of the periodic table.
US08778465B2	Ion-assisted direct growth of porous materials Methods of creating porous materials, such as silicon, are described. In some embodiments, plasma sheath modification is used to create ion beams of various incidence angles. These ion beams may, in some cases, form a focused ion beam. The wide range of incidence angles allows the material to be deposited amorphously. The porosity and pore size can be varied by changing various process parameters. In other embodiments, porous oxides can be created by adding oxygen to previously created layers of porous material.
US08778464B2	Method of removing contamination from a reactor The present invention provides a method for removing metal and/or metal oxide contamination from the interior of a vacuum coating reactor, the method comprising the steps of: a) performing an idle coating step by depositing a coating layer, wherein the coating layer comprises silicon; b) at least partly removing the deposited coating layer. The method according to the invention is particularly suitable for cleaning reactors in the context of solar cell manufacturing. The method is time saving and cost saving.
US08778462B2	Method for producing metalized fibrous composite sheet with olefin coating A composite sheet comprises a substrate and a multi-layer coating on its outer surface, the coating comprising a metal layer and an outer polymeric layer formed from a precursor comprising a polymerizable composition that includes an olefin group and a moisture curable group, such as an isocyanate or silane group. The function of the polymeric layer includes protecting the metal layer from corrosion. A production process for the composite sheet includes depositing the precursor and exposing it to both beam radiation and moisture, which respectively promote polymerization and curing at different sites of the precursor. The amenability of the isocyanate or silane functionality to moisture-promoted coupling promotes substantially full conversion and curing of the precursor, even of portions of the substrate that are geometrically shadowed from incident beam radiation.
US08778461B1	Method for powder coating and decorative printing and related product A method is provided for surface treating a substrate utilizing powder coating so that the substrate can be adorned with a decorative pattern and/or color, and can have a durable, aesthetically appealing finish. The decorative pattern can be applied via transfer printing processes, for example, by a sublimation process or a hydrographic process. The method optionally can be used to produce a visually perceivable transition between a decorative pattern, for example, a camouflage pattern, and a generally solid color on the substrate. The transition can be gradual, so that the decorative pattern appears to fade into the generally solid color to provide an appealing visual effect on a product. The method can be used to surface treat a variety of products, for example, archery products and/or firearm products.
US08778458B2	Adhesion promoter for coatings on different substrate surfaces A method of promoting the adhesion between a coating based on at least one polymer and a substrate surface that can be made of different materials in which an adhesion promoter comprising at least one, optionally oligomeric, addition product having no terminal C═C double bonds and has hydrolyzable silane groups and other functional groups is included in the coating composition, included in a preliminary coating applied to the substrate surface prior to the actual coating, is applied between the coating and substrate surface, or any combination thereof.
US08778456B2	Coating composition including high molecular weight polycarbodiimide, method of preparing same, and method of preparing coating on a substrate A coating composition comprises a high molecular weight polycarbodiimide. The high molecular weight polycarbodiimide is produced via a method. A method of preparing the coating composition and a method of forming a coating on a substrate with the coating composition are also disclosed.
US08778454B2	Modified surfaces The invention provides a method for producing a modified surface (5) comprising: patterning a surface (7) by forming thereon a porous molecular network (9) defined by non-covalent interactions between constituent molecules; and depositing in said porous network (9) and on said patterned surface (11) molecules (13) so as to form a self-assembled monolayer (15), wherein both said patterning and said depositing are effected by contact with liquids.
US08778450B2	Optical member and method of manufacturing the same An optical member including an oxide layer that has a stable fine textured structure and is excellent in durability is provided. The optical member includes a base material and an antireflection coating on a surface of the base material. The antireflection coating includes at least an oxide layer having a fine textured structure on the surface, and the oxide layer contains a phosphate compound. Furthermore, a method of manufacturing the optical member is provided.
US08778447B2	Hybrid compositions containing organic material and inorganic material, and hybrid dielectric layers including the same A hybrid composition includes poly-4-vinylphenol; a sodium compound; an aluminum compound; and a cross-linking agent effective to accelerate a cross-linking reaction of the ploy-4-vinylphenol, wherein, based on total weight of the poly-4-vinylphenol, the sodium compound and the aluminum compound, content of the poly-4-vinylphenol is 69 wt % to 99.89 wt %, content of the sodium compound is 0.01 wt % to 1 wt %, and content of the aluminum compound is 0.1 wt % to 30 wt %, and wherein content of the cross-linking agent ranges from 10 wt % to 30 wt % in an organic composition including the poly-4-vinylphenol and the cross-linking agent. A hybrid insulation layer that is dielectric and includes cross-linked poly-4-vinyl phenol is provided from the foregoing hybrid organic-inorganic composition.
US08778444B2	Method for manufacturing wire for dental correction A method of manufacturing a wire for straightening irregular teeth, which is not harmful to a human body and preserves the color of the teeth, is provided. The method of manufacturing a wire for straightening irregular teeth includes manufacturing a metal wire with metal alloy; physically or chemically etching a surface of the metal wire and then performing heat treatment; coating the surface of the metal wire with a metal material, Teflon, epoxy or urethane to show white or ivory and then performing heat treatment; forming a transparent parylene film on the metal material, Teflon, epoxy or urethane and then performing heat treatment; and removing one side of the foregoing coating layer from the surface of the metal wire, and then applying surface treatment to the one side with the coating layer removed.
US08778443B2	Method for manufacturing implant abutments for dental implants, and an implant abutment for a dental implant The invention relates to a method for manufacturing implant abutments 9 for dental implants 1, wherein the implant abutment 9 comprises a prefabricated base member 8 for joining the implant abutment to the dental implant 1, and a customized main body 15. The aim of the invention is to simplify this method of manufacturing. To this end, the main body 15 is formed by sintering and/or melting powdery material onto the base member 8 using laser sintering and/or laser melting. The invention relates also to an implant abutment manufactured by such a method.
US08778440B2	Plastic oil and fat composition, and production method and usage thereof A plastic oil and fat composition provides a plastic oil and fat food that has a good filling operability, keeps the feeling of melt-in-the-mouth after long preservation, and is excellent in spreadability, oil-off resistance and the like. In the plastic oil and fat composition, a content of PPP is from 5.5 to 12% by weight, a content of PPLi+PLiP is from 5.5 to 15.5% by weight, a content of PPO+POP is from 7 to 20% by weight, and a value of PPO/(PPO+POP) is from 0.55 to 0.7. A method for producing the plastic oil and fat composition is also provided.
US08778438B2	Aqueous foams, food products and a method of producing same The present invention describes an aqueous foam that includes water, at least one polysaccharide and food-grade, interfacially active particles. The present invention also describes an indulgent shelf-stable foamed food product that contains this aqueous foam. The indulgent shelf-stable foamed food products of the invention have an improved foamed and modular product texture.
US08778436B2	Apparatus for and product method of making a frozen confectionery Apparatus for producing a serving of frozen confectionery product is characterized by a supply of liquid gas, a support for removably carrying a disposable container that holds a volume of unfrozen confectionery mix, and a holder for releasably holding a disposable agitator, such that the agitator extends into confectionery mix in the container. A valve controllably dispenses liquid gas into the confectionery mix in the container while relative motion is imparted to the container and agitator to agitate and admix the confectionery mix and liquid gas while the liquid gas mix evaporates to cool and freeze the confectionery mix, through a transfer of heat from the confectionery mix to the liquid gas and through the latent heat of evaporation of the liquid gas, to produce the frozen confectionery product.
US08778433B2	Methods for producing a high protein corn meal from a whole stillage byproduct The present invention relates generally to corn dry-milling, and more specifically, to methods for producing a high protein corn meal from a whole stillage byproduct produced in a corn dry-milling process for making ethanol and a system therefore. In one embodiment, a method for producing a high protein corn meal from a whole stillage byproduct includes, in a corn dry-milling process for making ethanol, separating the whole stillage byproduct into an insoluble solids portion and a thin stillage portion. The thin stillage portion is separated into a protein portion and a water soluble solids portion. Next, the protein portion is dewatered then dried to define a high protein corn meal that includes at least 40 wt % protein on a dry basis.
US08778432B2	Method for brewing and chilling a beverage A method for brewing and chilling a brewed beverage such as tea includes brewing the beverage within a first container; pouring the brewed beverage from the first container into a second container containing a chilling medium; and covering the second container with an air-tight lid assembly that provides an air tight seal with the second container. The second container may then be agitated. The airtight seal traps vapor generated from the beverage during the chilling, thereby causing the vapor to re-enter the beverage to maintain optimum flavor. The first container includes a brewing pitcher containing an infuser, and the second container includes a chilling pitcher having a removably-attachable air-tight lid assembly.
US08778430B2	Method for deviled egg preparation and presentation A method for the sale, transport, and display of prepared hard boiled and deviled eggs, employing a container which is configured for both storage and transport of boiled eggs is provided. The container features a first half having a receiving cavity which engages a second half providing a cover for eggs located within sectioned cavities in the receiving cavity. Flavorings with labels or other placeable indicia are provided so that egg fillings in the eggs in different sections may be flavored and identified by the labels or placeable indicia provided with the flavoring. Eggs with pre-prepared flavorings may be purchased in removably engageable sections separate from the container and later engaged therein.
US08778424B2	Compositions and methods for treating hair loss Provided are compositions containing a unique combination of vitamin B1, vitamin B6, vitamin B12, folic acid, magnesium glycinate, ferric glycinate, L cysteine, biotin, Polygonum multiflorum, and Emblica officinalis. Methods of increasing hair volume in a subject by administering to the subject a composition containing vitamin B1, vitamin B6, vitamin B12, folic acid, magnesium glycinate, ferric glycinate, L cysteine, biotin, Polygonum multiflorum, and Emblica officinalis are also included.
US08778413B2	Dosing regimens and methods of treatment using carbon monoxide The present invention is directed to dosing regimens for the administration of carbon monoxide in the treatment of various indications as well as methods for enhancing organ function following transplant thereof.
US08778408B2	Antimicrobial substance, method for producing same, and antimicrobial material Provided an antimicrobial substance that includes a base material layer, and a copper-tin alloy layer 5-200 nm in thickness disposed on the base material layer, the copper-tin alloy layer containing copper in an amount of more than 60 atomic percent but not more than 90 atomic percent, and containing tin in an amount of not less than 10 atomic percent but less than 40 atomic percent. The copper-tin alloy layer includes a Cu41Sn11 crystalline phase, and a Cu3Sn crystalline phase. The Q value (Ω/(nm·Cu atomic percent)), which is derived by dividing the sheet resistance (Ω) of the copper-tin alloy layer by the thickness of the copper-tin alloy layer and the copper content (Cu atomic percent), is 1.5×10−4-6.0×10−4.
US08778402B2	Dry powder formulation comprising a corticosteroid and a beta-adrenergic for administration by inhalation Dry powder formulations comprising a corticosteroid and a beta2-adrenergic drug in combination are useful for the prevention and/or treatment of inflammatory or obstructive airways diseases.
US08778401B2	Mesoporous material excipients for poorly aqueous soluble ingredients The present invention encompasses formulations and methods for producing solid dispersions comprising mesoporous materials with poorly aqueous soluble active ingredients. The active ingredient is formed in the amorphous state and entrapped in the nanosized pores of the mesoporous excipients using a co-spray drying process. The pore walls of mesoporous channels stabilize the amorphous form of active ingredient against re-crystallization. The amorphous active ingredient entrapped in mesoporous channels exhibits good stability during extended storage under stress test conditions and possesses significantly enhanced dissolution rates.
US08778400B2	Nanoparticle-stabilized capsule formulation for treatment of inflammation A formulation for the delivery of an anti-inflammatory agent to a subject is described. In one particular application of the invention, the formulation comprises oil-based or aqueous droplets comprising indomethacin (1-(4-chlorobenzoyl)-5-methoxy-2-methyl-1-H-indole-3-acetic acid) or celecoxib (4-[5-(4-methylphenyl)-3-(trifluoromethyl) pyrazol-1-yl]benzenesulfonamide) stabilized by nanoparticles, particularly silica nanoparticles.
US08778399B2	In situ, liquid-activated film coated tablets and a process for making the same Tablets and other objects are film coated by including in the tablet a film-forming polymer that is activated upon contact with an activating amount of liquid. The film-forming polymer, e.g., a cellulosic ether, is homogeneously mixed with the other ingredients of the tablet, shaped into any desirable form, loaded into a conventional coating apparatus, and sprayed or foamed with an activating amount of fluid, e.g., water, alcohol, etc., and dried. This coating process eliminates potential problems such as spray nozzle clogging, inappropriate coating fluid viscosity, and the inability to properly atomize the coating fluid. This coating process does not impart any appreciable weight or thickness gain to the tablet.
US08778396B2	Multi-unit gastroretentive pharmaceutical dosage form comprising microparticles This invention relates to an orally administrable, gastroretentive pharmaceutical dosage form which contains at least one pharmaceutically active ingredient and at least one polymeric adjuvant. The adjuvant serves to retain the dosage form in a selected region of the gastrointestinal tract for sufficient time for the pharmaceutically active ingredient to be released and absorbed. Ideally the dosage form will contain two or more pharmaceutically active ingredients which are delivered to different regions of the gastrointestinal tract.
US08778394B2	Small-volume oral transmucosal dosage forms Small-volume oral transmucosal dosage forms or NanoTabs® comprising a predetermined amount of a pharmaceutically active drug are provided. Exemplary applications include use of the NanoTabs® to administer a drug for the treatment of acute, post-operative or breakthrough pain.
US08778386B2	Anti-microbial substrates with peroxide treatment An oxidizing anti-microbial treatment and products containing such treatment are described. The treatment involves, in part, preparing a substrate to accept an attachment of charged moieties, and a number of stabilized peroxide compounds on at least part of a surface of said substrate. When microbes, such as bacteria, having a net charge opposite to that of the charged moieties come in close proximity to the treated substrate surface, peroxide molecules from the substrate are activated and released to kill the microbes.
US08778381B2	Ocular implant made by a double extrusion process The invention provides biodegradable implants sized for implantation in an ocular region and methods for treating medical conditions of the eye. The implants are formed from a mixture of hydrophilic end and hydrophobic end PLGA, and deliver active agents into an ocular region without a high burst release.
US08778378B2	Bioactive antibacterial bone graft materials The present invention generally relates to bioactive antibacterial materials and composites that enhance bone growth while preventing surgical site infection. The present invention also relates to bioactive antibacterial materials and composites that include a bimodal bioactive glass particle size distribution. The bioactive antibacterial composite finds utility in a variety of clinical applications including spine and orthopaedic procedures.
US08778371B2	Pesticide compositions and methods for their use Pesticide compositions and methods for their use are provided. Embodiments of the subject pesticide compositions include a pesticide and an assimilable carbon skeleton energy component. Embodiments of the subject compositions may include a pesticide and one or more of a macronutrient component, micronutrient component, vitamin/cofactor component and a complexing agent. Also provided are methods that include preparing an assimilable carbon skeleton energy containing-pesticide composition and methods for administering an assimilable carbon skeleton energy containing-pesticide composition to a plant. Kits for use in practicing the subject invention are also provided. The subject pesticide compositions find use in a variety of different applications, and are particularly suited for use in at least mollifying pesticide-induced phytotoxicity of a plant.
US08778368B2	Use of acrylic comb copolymers as a colour developing agent in cosmetic compositions Cosmetic compositions for make-up containing acrylic comb copolymers having the advantage of increasing the intensity of the color produced by these compositions when they are applied to the skin or to keratin derivatives such as the hair or the eyelashes. Not only are the aesthetic properties conferred by these compositions thus improved, but their useful life is also increased, since they allow access to the desired shade (and good intensity) right from the first application.
US08778367B2	Glycerosomes and use thereof in pharmaceutical and cosmetic preparations for topical applications The present invention relates to vesicles for topical delivery of drugs and cosmetics, named glyceromes and characterized by high content of glycerol. The invention further relates to pharmaceutical formulations and cosmetic products containing glycerosomes.
US08778361B2	Canine tumor cell and allogeneic dendritic cell fused vaccine and method for preparing the same The present invention provides a dendritic cell-based vaccine by fusing a canine tumor cell and an allogeneic dendritic cell, and a method for preparing the same. The fusion cells expressing canine tumor antigens are generated by fusing canine bone marrow-derived dendritic cells and canine tumor cells. The canine immune system can be induced to produce tumor specific T lymphocytes and natural killer cells when the fusion cells used as a vaccine is injected into a canine body.
US08778357B2	Method for generation of RNA virus The present invention provides a method for generating negative-strand, segmented RNA viruses using linear expression constructs in the presence of helper virus.
US08778356B2	Vaccine The present invention relates to a pharmaceutical formulation comprising lipopolysaccharide derived from Burkholderia thailandensis and its various uses, including but not limited to its use in the treatment and/or prophylaxis of meliodosis or amelioration of symptoms associated therewith, and/or glanders or amelioration of symptoms associated therewith.
US08778355B2	Infectious bovine viral diarrhea virus The invention belongs to the field of animal health and in particular Bovine Viral Diarrhea Virus (BVDV). The invention provides infectious BVDV clones and methods to produce said BVDV clones. The invention further relates to methods of attenuating said clones, attenuated BVDV clones and vaccines comprising said attenuated clones.
US08778352B2	Polyvalent chimeric OspC vaccinogen and diagnostic antigen A chimeric polyvalent recombinant protein for use as a vaccine and diagnostic for Lyme disease is provided. The chimeric protein comprises epitopes of the loop 5 region and/or the alpha helix 5 region of outer surface protein C (OspC) types. The OspC types may be associated with mammalian Borrelia infections.
US08778350B2	Method of treating cancer with an HLA-A*3303-restricted WT1 peptide and pharmaceutical composition comprising the same Disclosed are: a peptide comprising an amino acid sequence composed of contiguous nine amino acid residues derived from a WT1 protein, wherein an amino acid residue at position 2 in the amino acid sequence is selected from the group consisting of Ala, Ile, Leu, Val, Phe, Tyr, Ser and Asp and an amino acid residue at position 9 in the amino acid sequence is Arg; a polynucleotide encoding the peptide; a pharmaceutical composition comprising the peptide; and others.
US08778347B2	Fluorescent neutralization and adherence inhibition assays The present invention comprises rugged, inexpensive, reliable, and sensitive laboratory assays of antibody-based viral neutralization activity and antibody-based viral adherence inhibition activity. The assays use inactivated, fluorescently-labeled virus, allowing the tests to be performed without extensive safety precautions. The interaction of the labeled virus with target cells is monitored using flow cytometric methods. A preferred embodiment uses simple and inexpensive flow cytometry methodologies and equipment, such as bead array readers used as simplified flow cytometers. The assays are rapid, taking no longer than a few hours and are readily conducted by a trained technician. The assays are sensitive because they use labeled viruses at low concentrations and determine neutralizing and blocking capacity of sera and antibody at low concentrations. The methods are appropriate for high-throughput screening of large panels of samples.
US08778346B2	Anti-IL-23 antibodies The present invention relates to anti-IL-23p19 binding compounds, in particular new humanized anti-IL-23p19 antibodies and therapeutic and diagnostic methods and compositions for using the same.
US08778343B2	Antibodies that bind tau oligomers Embodiments of the invention are directed to compositions and methods related to Tau oligomers and Tau oligomer specific antibodies.
US08778339B2	Combination of FcγRIIB-specific antibodies and CD20-specific antibodies and methods of use thereof The present invention relates to methods of treatment, prevention, management or amelioration of one or more symptoms of diseases or disorders associated with CD20 expression that encompass administration of a combination of: (A) one or more antibodies that specifically bind FcγRIIB, particularly human FcγRIIB, with greater affinity than said antibodies bind FcγRIIA, and (B) one or more antibodies that specifically bind to CD20. Such methods include methods of treating, preventing, managing or ameliorating one or more symptoms of a B cell related disease or disorder or an inflammatory disorder. The invention also provides pharmaceutical compositions comprising an anti-FcγRIIB antibody and an anti-CD20 antibody.
US08778338B2	Combination enzyme therapy for digestion of dietary gluten A combination enzyme product consisting of a glutamine specific endoprotease and a prolyl endopeptidase is provided. Both enzymes are active and stable in the stomach and can therefore be administered as lyophilized powders or simple capsules/tablets. A ratio of the two enzymes is used to maximize their synergy.
US08778333B2	Injectable microspheres for tissue construction The present invention relates to injectable compositions comprising biocompatible, hydrophilic, non-toxic and substantially spherical microspheres associated with stem cells useful for tissue construction and generation. The invention also relates to methods of tissue construction and generation, for the treatment of various tissue damage and defects, using the injectable compositions.
US08778332B2	Agent for reducing risk of developing cancer Provided is an agent or a food or drink for reducing the risk of developing breast cancer. An agent for reducing the risk of developing breast cancer which comprises a composition containing living cells of Lactobacillus casei.
US08778331B2	Method of determining susceptibility of a tumor cell to a chemotherapeutic agent: novel use of herpes simplex virus The present invention provides a method of determining if a tumor cell is susceptible to killing by a chemotherapeutic agent, comprising: (a) providing a tumor cell; (b) infecting said tumor cell with a herpes simplex virus or a herpes simplex virus defective in an immediate early gene selected from the group consisting of ICP27, ICP4, and ICP22; and (c) determining the presence of apoptotic killing of said tumor cell, wherein the presence of apoptotic killing is indicative of susceptibility to said chemotherapeutic agent. Chemotherapeutic agent may include doxorubicin, etoposide, paclitaxel, cisplatin, or 5-fluorouracil. The present invention also provides a herpes simplex virus promoter construct having a lacZ gene to assess tumor resistance to chemotherapeutic agents.
US08778329B2	Compositions comprising angiogenic factors and methods of use thereof The present invention provides recombinant Listeria strains comprising an angiogenic factor, recombinant polypeptides comprising an angiogenic factor operatively linked to a polypeptide comprising a PEST-like sequence, recombinant nucleotide molecules encoding same, related vaccines, and immunogenic and therapeutic methods utilizing same.
US08778328B2	Poxviral oncolytic vectors A poxvirus other than NYVAC but comprising a defective F4L and/or I4L gene and compositions comprising such poxvirus are useful for therapeutic purposes, and more particularly for the treatment of cancer.
US08778327B2	Substances, compositions and methods for preventing and treating immune-mediated inflammatory disorders A substance or a composition for preventing, delaying the onset of or treating one or more than one immune-mediated inflammatory disorder in an organism who is susceptible to developing the immune-mediated inflammatory disorder, who is developing the immune-mediated inflammatory disorder or who has the immune-mediated inflammatory disorder. A method of preventing, delaying the onset of or treating an organism who is susceptible to developing the immune-mediated inflammatory disorder, who is developing the immune-mediated inflammatory disorder or who has the immune-mediated inflammatory disorder.
US08778326B2	Hydrogel tissue adhesive for medical use A hydrogel tissue adhesive formed by reacting an aldehyde-functionalized polysaccharide containing pendant aldehyde groups with a water-dispersible, multi-arm amine is described. The hydrogel may be useful as a tissue adhesive or sealant for medical applications that require a more rapid degradation time, such as the prevention of undesired tissue-to tissue adhesions resulting from trauma or surgery.
US08778320B2	Deodorant composition It is intended to provide a novel deodorant composition which is excellent in the deodorizing effect, is capable of affording a deodorant composition by a convenient method, and shows no decrease in the deodorizing performance even after a long period of time, once the deodorant being prepared. Specifically, there is provided a deodorant composition containing, as the active component, a colored compound obtainable by reacting a polyphenol in a solvent showing alkalinity in the coexistence of an oxygen molecule at a reaction pH value of 6.5 or more. As a substitute for a polyphenol, use can be made of a plant extract containing a polyphenol but containing substantially no amino acid. It is also possible to further employ an amino acid. Furthermore, use can be made of a plant extract and/or a plant body containing a polyphenol and an amino acid.
US08778319B2	Polysiloxanes having quaternary ammonium groups, method for producing same and use thereof in formulations for cleansing and care The invention relates to novel polysiloxanes having quaternary ammonium groups, and to a method for producing same. The invention further relates to the use of said polymers as an active care ingredient in formulations for the care and cleansing of skin and skin appendages, for example, as conditioning agents for hair.
US08778317B2	Organic compounds Deodorant composition for the treatment of female malodour comprising a perfume containing violet nitrile and optionally pharaone and/or zinarine.
US08778316B2	Non-sticky, hydrating and moisturizing aqueous lip gloss composition The present invention is directed to a non-sticky, hydrating and moisturizing aqueous lip gloss having: (a) at least one alkyl ethoxylated polymer wax; (b) at least one oil soluble polar modified polymer; (c) water; (d) at least one non volatile oil capable of solubilizing the polar modified polymer; and (e) optionally, at least one colorant, and wherein the composition does not require silicone fluids therein.
US08778310B2	Fluorescent chlorotoxin conjugate and method for intra-operative visualization of cancer A chlorotoxin conjugate detectable by fluorescence imaging that allows for intra-operative visualization of cancerous tissues, compositions that include the chlorotoxin conjugate, and methods for using the chlorotoxin conjugate.
US08778302B2	Procaspase 8-mediated disease targeting The invention provides compositions and method for delivering a therapeutic or diagnostic agent to a disease site in a mammal, the method comprising administering to the mammal a therapeutically or diagnostically effective amount of a pharmaceutical composition, wherein the pharmaceutical composition comprises the therapeutic or diagnostic agent coupled to a Procaspase 8 polypeptide and a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier.
US08778301B2	Gamma-hydroxybutyrate compositions containing carbohydrate, lipid or amino acid carriers The present invention provides compositions comprising at least one GHB moiety bonded to at least one physiologically compatible carrier molecule. The compositions can enhance the uptake of the drug, deliver effective therapeutic doses in a time-delayed fashion, or can target specific organs.
US08778297B2	Sulfur recovery unit and sulfur recovery method A sulfur recovery unit comprising: a reaction furnace configured to carry out a high-temperature Claus reaction between hydrogen-sulfide-containing gas and oxygen-containing gas introduced to the reaction furnace; a sulfur condenser configured to cool reaction gas discharged from the reaction furnace and condense sulfur contained in the reaction gas; and a pipe that connects the reaction furnace to the sulfur condenser, wherein the reaction furnace is fixed to the ground; and the sulfur condenser and the pipe are arranged so as to be able to move relative to the reaction furnace.
US08778296B2	Dispersible carbon nanotube, carbon nanotube-polymer composite and method of manufacturing the carbon nanotube-polymer composite A dispersible carbon nanotube (“CNT”) comprising a CNT backbone and an organic moiety attached to the carbon nanotube backbone and comprising a hydroxyl substituted C6 to C14 aromatic group are described, as well as a CNT-polymer composite and a method of manufacturing the CNT-polymer composite.
US08778294B2	Process for production of PCC The present invention relates to a process of preparing precipitated calcium carbonate (PCC) in a low energy intensity reactor in such a manner that the amount of solids in the PCC product can be raised to 35% or more without performing a dewatering step. The process comprises performing in parallel and in two or more separate reaction vessel the steps of contacting calcium hydroxide with a gas comprising carbon dioxide to allow formation of calcium carbonate, and adding calcium oxide, lime or dry calcium hydroxide or a combination of any of the three to a part of the resulting mixture of calcium hydroxide and calcium carbonate. The invention further provides a specialized reactor system as well as the use of this reactor system in the manufacture of PCC.
US08778293B2	Production of ammonia from air and water A process for producing ammonia from air and water comprises producing nitrogen gas from air by pressure-swing-adsorption; producing hydrogen gas by electrolysis of water; compressing the nitrogen gas in a first cylinder to produce pressurized nitrogen gas; compressing the hydrogen gas in a second cylinder to produce pressurized hydrogen gas; compressing a mixture of the pressurized nitrogen and hydrogen gases in a third cylinder; heating the compressed mixture in the presence of a catalyst to react nitrogen and hydrogen to form ammonia; and extracting the ammonia from the mixture. A system for producing ammonia in the above process is also provided.
US08778288B1	Separation method of zirconium and hafnium by solvent extraction process A separation method of zirconium and hafnium is described which includes an extraction process of agitating an undiluted aqueous solution containing zirconium, hafnium, and sulfuric acid with a first stirring solution containing an acidic extractant to produce a first extract solution in which the hafnium is extracted by the acidic extractant; and a recovery process of agitating the first extract solution with a second stirring solution containing a citric acid solution to produce a citric acid solution after extraction in which zirconium is reverse-extracted from the first extract solution to the citric acid solution so as to recover zirconium contained in the first extract solution. The method may reduce the amount of extractant while greatly enhancing the separation effect of zirconium and hafnium, and increase zirconium recovery rate by more than 97% through an additional zirconium recovery process while reducing a hafnium content in zirconium by less than 50 ppm.
US08778284B2	Micro plate treating device and micro plate treating method An object is to provide a micro plate treating device and micro plate treating method capable of handling a larger number of kinds of solution or suspensions or a larger volume of solutions or suspensions per work area by use of a normalized micro plate without enlarging the scale of the device. The micro plate treating device comprises a micro plate having wells arranged in a matrix form, one or two or more nozzle heads each having nozzles capable of sucking and discharging a fluid and arranged in a matrix form, and moving means capable of moving relatively an interval between the micro plate and the nozzle heads, wherein tips of all the nozzles are configured to be permitted to be simultaneously inserted into some of the wells in the micro plate, at least one of the row interval or the column interval of the nozzles is set to a natural number multiple of the row interval or the column interval of the corresponding wells, the natural number being two or more, and at least one of the row number or the column number of all the corresponding nozzles is one to the natural number of the row number or the column number of the wells.
US08778281B2	Sample preparation dosing unit A sample preparation dosing unit for liquid dosing is provided comprising an inlet port and an outlet port fluidically coupling the sample preparation dosing unit to a supply and target, respectively; a pump, fluidically arranged between the inlet port and the outlet port; an outlet flow restrictor with an outlet flow resistance, fluidically arranged between a pump outlet and outlet port; and a control arrangement with a branch, a control valve, and a control flow restrictor with a control flow resistance. The branch divides the flow at the pump outlet into an outlet flow through the outlet flow restrictor and into a control flow through the control flow restrictor. The control flow downstream of the control flow restrictor is fed, depending on the state of the control valve, either into the outlet port thereby merging with the outlet flow downstream of the outlet flow restrictor, or into a bypass conduit.
US08778279B2	Microfluidic device The present disclosure relates to microfluidic devices adapted for facilitating cytometry analysis of particles flowing therethrough. In certain embodiments, the microfluidic devices have onboard sterilization capabilities. In other embodiments, microfluidic devices have integral collection bags and methods for keeping the microfluidic channels clean.
US08778278B2	Non bio-adhesive polymer coating composition, articles and devices thereof The invention is a device comprising a substrate and a material provided on at least a portion of the substrate and having an exposed surface. The exposed surface of the material is non bio-adhesive. The invention further includes a non bio-adhesive material composition and a method of making a device having the same non bio-adhesive surface. The invention further provides a device having a coating of a hydrophobic material. In particular, the hydrophobic material coated portion of the device is resistant to bio-adhesion.
US08778275B2	Methods for producing vaccine adjuvants An improved method for the manufacture of an oil-in-water emulsion involves three procedures: (i) preparation of a preliminary emulsion; (ii) microfluidization of the preliminary emulsion to reduce its droplet size; and (iii) filtration of the microfluidized emulsion through a hydrophilic membrane.
US08778270B2	Apparatus and method for separating components An apparatus for separating components and a method of separating components using the apparatus are provided. The apparatus includes: a main chamber which contains a sample that is separated into a plurality of layers by a centrifugal force; a component separating chamber which is connected to the main chamber, and receives a specific layer including specific components among the plurality of layers; a first channel which connects the component separating chamber to the main chamber; and a first channel valve which is disposed in the first channel to control a liquid flowing through the first channel.
US08778268B2	Specimen analyzer, abnormality control method of the same and computer program product Specimen analyzer includes a first holding section for holding a container; a first mechanism section for executing a first operation for the container on the first holding section; a second holding section for holding the container; a first transfer mechanism section for transferring the container from the first holding section to the second one; a second mechanism section for executing a second operation for the container on the second one; an error detector for detecting error in the first mechanism section; and an error controller for controlling the operation of the first holding section, the first and second operation so that the first operation and the transfer operation of the first holding section would be stopped while the second operation would be continued in case of the error in the first mechanism section. An abnormality control method of the analyzer and computer program product are also disclosed.
US08778263B2	Irradiation apparatus for inactivating pathogens and/or leukocytes in a biological fluid and process The invention relates to an irradiation apparatus for inactivating pathogens and/or leukocytes in a biological fluid such as a platelet suspension and/or plasma comprising: a casing (2), a support member (3) for carrying at least one irradiation bag (19) containing the biological fluid, a light source (4) comprising two banks of light (5, 6) disposed above and below the support member (3), and an agitating system (25) for moving the support member (3), the light source generating UVC light of suitable intensity to inactivate pathogens and/or leukocytes and the agitation system moving the support member in an orbital path with predetermined amplitude and rotational frequency suitable to expose the whole biological fluid to UVC.
US08778262B2	Alloy having reduced inclusions One aspect is an alloy consisting of niobium, zirconium, tantalum, and tungsten. The alloy is formed with a melt metallurgical route such that all four metals solidify as a homogeneous alloy having no inclusions more than 10 μm in size.
US08778258B2	Tundish nozzle exchanging device, and tundish nozzle for use in the device A tundish nozzle is used in a device for exchanging tundish nozzles juxtaposed at a bottom of a tundish. The device includes a pair of first arms pressing and supporting a first lower nozzle located at an undersurface of a first upper nozzle, the first upper nozzle being placed at the bottom of the tundish. The device includes a pair of second arms pressing and supporting a second lower nozzle located at an undersurface of a second upper nozzle, the second upper nozzle being placed at the bottom of the tundish and next to the first upper nozzle. The pair of first arms and the pair of second arms are adjoined to each other, the pairs at least partly overlapping. The tundish nozzle includes a zirconia based nozzle inserted into an alumina based refractory, and is one of the first and second lower and upper nozzles.
US08778257B2	Heat exchanger A heat exchanger 10 includes a conduit 12 for conveying cooling fluid relative to a body to be cooled. A heat transfer arrangement 62 is arranged in communication with an interior of the conduit 12, the heat transfer arrangement 62 and the conduit 12 together defining an assembly that is mountable adjacent the body to be cooled, convective heat exchange occurring, in use, due to movement of the cooling fluid relative to the body and to the heat transfer arrangement 62 of the assembly and radiant heat exchange occurring between the body and at least part of the heat transfer arrangement 62 of the assembly.
US08778255B2	Method for generatively manufacturing a component with at least one mark A component, in particular an engine component, which has at least one mark with a predetermined three-dimensional shape for determining a stress in the component and where the component is constructed by a generative manufacturing method, is disclosed.
US08778253B2	Process for producing fiber composite material A technique with which a nanofibrous resin spun by electrospinning can be introduced into inner parts of fibers. The process for fiber composite material production is a process which comprises spinning a nanofibrous resin toward split fibers continuously conveyed along a given conveyance route and thereby combining the split fibers with the resin to produce a fiber composite material. The process involves a resin spinning step in which the nanofibrous resin spun with an electrospinning device is flown toward the split fibers. In the resin spinning step, the direction in which the nanofibrous resin proceeds is made to be the same as the conveying direction of the split fibers by blowing an air stream from a blower on the nanofibrous resin.
US08778251B2	Method and apparatus for manufacturing one-piece shoe shells having different widths A method for manufacturing a one-piece shoe shell of a skate with different widths having acts of forming a shoe shell with a rudimentary mold assembly, ejecting the shoe shell from the rudimentary mold assembly and adjusting a width of the sole of the shoe shell before the shoe shell hardens. The sole of the shoe shell has at least one adjusting portion to allow the sole to expand or be compressed. With the acts, each size of the shoe shell needs only one rudimentary mold assembly that has complex structure and high cost to substantially form a basic shape of the shoe shell and multiple shaping molds of different widths that have simple structure and low cost are prepared to further adjust widths of the shoe shell. Consequently, total cost for manufacturing the shoe shell with different widths is effectively lowered.
US08778243B2	Composite hook and loop fasteners, methods of their manufacture, and products containing them A composite hook and loop fastener in the form of an elongated strip has an elongated loop component, a hook component permanently affixed to the loop component, and a backing layer disposed on a face of the wrap tie in a discrete region. The backing layer is used for permanent attachment of the wrap tie to a supporting surface. One end of the loop component is available for encircling an object to be wrapped and engaging the fastener elements of the hook component. The loop component has a self-supporting web of entangled fibers, the fibers forming both a sheet-form body and hook-engageable, free-standing loops extending from at least one surface of the body, and the hook component has fastener elements extending from a common base. The backing layer may be a pressure sensitive adhesive or a synthetic resin.
US08778240B2	Split fiber producing devices and methods for the production of microfibers and nanofibers Described herein are apparatuses and methods of creating fibers, such as microfibers and nanofibers. The methods discussed herein employ centrifugal forces to transform material into fibers. Apparatuses that may be used to create fibers are also described. Described herein are fiber producing devices that are composed of two or more members, that, when coupled together, define an internal cavity and a plurality of openings.
US08778238B2	Fluid conduits with molded plastic part A method of providing a conduit (5, 7, 49, 51 93, 129, 131, 151, 231, 233, 259) adapted for conducting a medium, with a functional element. The functional element is adapted for at least one of: coupling, connecting, sealing, fixing, adjusting, aligning, receiving, protecting, and positioning the conduit. A part, comprising a plastic material, is plastified and molded within a forming tool for shaping the form of the functional element and for attaching the functional element to the conduit.
US08778237B2	Mold for forming optical fiber connector A mold for molding optical fiber connector includes a core pin, a core mold and a cavity mold. The core pin has insertion portion and a blind hole forming portion. The core mold is used to clamp the insertion portion of the core pin. The cavity mold includes a molding cavity and a through hole defined in the sidewall of the cavity mold, the molding cavity includes a lens forming portion used to mold the lens. A positioning block defining an aligning hole is positioned in the through hole, the aligning hole is used to clamp the blind hole forming portion of the core pin to make the blind hole forming portion align with the lens forming portion during the injection molding process. The present art also relate to a method for adjusting the mold.
US08778233B2	Device comprising positive hole injection transport layer, method for producing the same and ink for forming positive hole injection transport layer The present invention is to provide a device capable of having an easy production process and achieving a long lifetime. A device comprising a substrate, two or more electrodes facing each other disposed on the substrate and a positive hole injection transport layer disposed between two electrodes among the two or more electrodes, wherein the positive hole injection transport layer comprises a transition metal-containing nanoparticle containing at least a transition metal compound including a transition metal oxide, a transition metal and a protecting agent, or at least the transition metal compound including the transition metal oxide, and the protecting agent.
US08778226B2	Luminescent systems based on the isolation of conjugated PI systems and edge charge compensation with polar molecules on a charged nanostructured surface A photoluminescent or electroluminescent system and method of making a non-luminescent nanostructured material into such a luminescent system is presented. The method of preparing the luminescent system, generally, comprises the steps of modifying the surface of a nanostructured material to create isolated regions to act as luminescent centers and to create a charge imbalance on the surface; applying more than one polar molecule to the charged surface of the nanostructured material; and orienting the polar molecules to compensate for the charge imbalance on the surface of the nanostructured material. The compensation of the surface charge imbalance by the polar molecules allows the isolated regions to exhibit luminescence.
US08778223B2	Liquid crystals having cyclohexyl core structures and fluorinated tails Provided are compounds useful for use in liquid crystal mixtures to improve the properties of the mixture. In embodiments, the compound has two cyclohexyl ring and a tail containing one more fluorine atoms.
US08778220B2	Wholly aromatic liquid crystal polyester resin compound with improved heat resistance, and preparation method thereof Disclosed are a wholly aromatic liquid crystal polyester resin compound and a preparation method thereof. The disclosed wholly aromatic liquid crystal polyester resin compound comprises a wholly aromatic liquid crystal polyester resin having a high melting point, and an inorganic filler having a high thermal conductivity. In addition, the disclosed wholly aromatic liquid crystal polyester resin compound can be prepared by using a twin screw extruder having a barrel temperature of 350 to 450° C.
US08778218B2	Dispersant composition The invention relates to a composition containing a particulate solid, an organic or aqueous medium, and a compound with a head group derived from phosphoric acid or sulphuric acid. The invention further relates to novel compounds, and the use of the compound as a dispersant.
US08778215B2	Thermoelectric composite material An embodiment of the present disclosure provides a thermoelectric composite material including: a thermoelectric matrix including a thermoelectric material; and a plurality of nano-carbon material units located in the thermoelectric matrix and spaced apart from each other, wherein a spacing between two neighboring nano-carbon material unit is about 50 nm to 2 μm.
US08778214B2	Thermoelectrics compositions comprising nanoscale inclusions in a chalcogenide matrix Composites comprising a continuous matrix formed from compounds having a rock salt structure (represented by the structure “MQ”) and inclusions comprising chalcogenide compounds having a rock salt structure (represented by the structure “AB”) are provided. Composites having the structure MQ-ABC2, where MQ represents a matrix material and ABC2 represents inclusions comprising a chalcogenide dispersed in the matrix material are also provided.
US08778213B2	Ferrocene-based fire extinguishing composition The present invention relates to a ferrocene-based fire extinguishing composition. The ferrocene-based fire extinguishing composition comprises ferrocene, a ferrocene derivative, or a combination thereof at a content of 25 mass % or more; when in use, a pyrotechnic agent is used as a heat source and a power source, the pyrotechnic agent is ignited, and the high temperature generated by the combustion of the pyrotechnic agent is utilized to make a fire extinguishing composition produce a large amount of fire extinguishing substance, which is sprayed out together with the pyrotechnic agent, so as to achieve the purpose of extinguishing a fire. Compared with a conventional fire extinguishing composition, a more efficient and safer fire extinguishing composition is provided.
US08778208B2	Method and article A method of making an article 2 comprising an ultra-thin sheet 26 of material secured at lateral regions to a support member, the method comprises laying the ultra-thin sheet on a substrate 20, forming the support member on the lateral regions of the ultra-thin sheet such that the lateral regions of the ultra-thin sheet are sandwiched between the support member and the substrate and adhered to the support member, and removing the substrate by vaporisation or by a dissolution step using a solvent, to leave the article. The ultra-thin sheet is supported around its periphery and has a central region in which the ultra-thin sheet is free from contact with any other material.
US08778206B2	Substrate processing method and storage medium In a substrate processing method, a polysilicon layer 38 on a wafer W is etched with a bromine cation 45a and a bromine radical 45b in plasma generated from a processing gas containing a hydrogen bromide gas, an oxygen gas, and a nitrogen trifluoride gas, and then, is ashed with an oxygen radical 46 and a nitrogen radical 47 in plasma generated from a processing gas containing an oxygen gas and a nitrogen gas. Thereafter, the polysilicon layer 38 is etched with a fluorine cation 48a and a fluorine radical 48b in plasma generated from a processing gas containing an argon gas and a nitrogen trifluoride gas. While the polysilicon layer 38 is ashed, an oxidation process is performed on a silicon bromide generated by etching the polysilicon layer 38 with the bromine cation 45a.
US08778205B2	Processing method and processing system The present invention is a processing method including a processing step of performing predetermined processing for a workpiece; an unnecessary portion removal step of removing an unnecessary portion produced on a surface of the workpiece due to the predetermined processing; and a surface structure evaluation step of evaluating a surface structure of the workpiece from which the unnecessary portion has been removed by the unnecessary portion removal step.
US08778202B2	Spreading ink over a press plate using a heater This invention relates to methods and apparatuses for creating a textured press plate by spreading ink over the press plate using a heater. Some embodiments provide a method that includes: (a) dispensing radiation-curable ink onto a press plate; (b) spreading the ink over the press plate by heating the ink; and (c) irradiating the ink so that the ink is at least partially cured and/or fixed, and/or such that the spreading of the ink is at least partially slowed and/or stopped. In some embodiments, the irradiating the ink occurs after the spreading the ink. In other embodiments, the ink acts to resist a chemical solution, and the method further includes etching a surface portion of the press plate by exposing the portion to a chemical solution, where the surface portion includes the ink, and where the etching the surface portion occurs after the irradiating the ink.
US08778200B2	Method for manufacturing liquid discharge head A method for manufacturing a liquid discharge head including a substrate on which supply ports for supplying a liquid are provided, includes forming a first supply port among the supply ports by performing crystal anisotropic etching on the substrate from one surface of the substrate, and forming a plurality of second supply ports among the supply ports by performing dry etching on the substrate using a crystal anisotropic etching method from a surface exposed toward the one surface of the substrate to a rear surface so that the independent second supply ports are respectively opened on the rear surface.
US08778199B2	Epitaxial lift off in inverted metamorphic multijunction solar cells The present disclosure provides a process for manufacturing a solar cell by selectively freeing an epitaxial layer from a single crystal substrate upon which it was grown. In some embodiments the process includes, among other things, providing a first substrate; depositing a separation layer on said first substrate; depositing on said separation layer a sequence of layers of semiconductor material forming a solar cell; mounting and bonding a flexible support on top of the sequence of layers; etching said separation layer while applying an agitating action to the etchant solution so as to remove said flexible support with said epitaxial layer from said first substrate.
US08778197B2	Graphene windows, methods for making same, and devices containing same The present invention relates to graphene windows and methods for making same. One method comprises selecting a high purity metal foil, growing a layer of graphene on a first face of the metal foil, patterning the second face of the graphene-modified foil with a polymer, wherein the second face of the graphene-modified foil has an exposed region and etching the second face of the graphene-modified foil in the exposed region until exposing the first layer of graphene.
US08778193B2	Filtration method and installation The invention provides a method for the separation of liquid from a three phase slurry bubble column. The method includes the step of charging the inside of a hollow filter element with a rinsing fluid to clean the inside of the filter for catalyst fines followed by a backflushing step. The invention also provides an installation for the separation of liquid from a three phase slurry bubble column. The installation includes at feast one hollow and enclosed filter element and one or more conduits in fluid communication with the internal volume of the filter, with at least one conduit being configured or connected for inflow of rinsing fluid and at least one conduit being configured or connection for outflow of rinsing fluid.
US08778185B2	Methods of conditioning mixed liquor using water soluble quaternary ammonium starches Disclosed is a method of conditioning mixed liquor in membrane bioreactor (MBR) systems comprising adding an effective amount of a treatment composition comprising a water soluble cationic quaternary ammonium starch or a water soluble quaternary ammonium starch/gum blend to the mixed liquor. Also disclosed is a method of improving flux in an MBR system comprising adding the treatment composition to the mixed liquor of the MBR.
US08778183B2	Filtering apparatus A filtering apparatus that sucks liquid in hollow portions (10) of the filtering elements (1) via suction pipes (3) so that liquid passes the filtering elements and is filtered. Each suction pipe has suction holes (4) connected to the hollow portions. The suction pipes are inserted into through holes (2) of the filtering elements. The filtering elements are arranged side by side and connected to the suction pipes. A ring-shaped packing is interposed between the filtering elements, and water-tightly seals the clearance between the filtering element and the suction pipe. The through holes are arranged at peripheral locations of each filtering element. The suction pipes are inserted into the through holes of each filtering element. The filtering elements are held at the peripheral locations by the suction pipes.
US08778175B2	Water filter system A slow/intermittent sand filter that purifies polluted water by flowing through sand in a manner that achieves greater purity and permits simpler and more effective maintenance than existing filters.
US08778172B2	Method of scavenging hydrogen sulfide from hydrocarbon stream The invention is related to hydrogen sulfide scavenging additive, capable of scavenging hydrogen sulfide in hydrocarbons by forming water soluble scavenged products which are capable of getting separated from hydrocarbon even at acidic pH without causing fouling and decomposition problems, consisting of aldehyde or aldehyde and polyethylene glycol [PEG], and wherein said aldehyde is glyoxylic acid. The invention is also related to a method of scavenging hydrogen sulfide employing present scavenging additive.
US08778163B2	Protection of magnesium alloys by aluminum plating from ionic liquids A method for electroplating aluminum metal on a magnesium alloy includes providing an Lewis acidic ionic liquid having dissolved species of an aluminum metal salt; pre-treating a surface of the magnesium alloy including subjecting the surface of the magnesium alloy to a reverse current etching in the ionic liquid; electroplating the aluminum metal on the surface using the ionic liquid as the electrolyte; and subjecting the surface of the magnesium alloy to a post-treatment including neutralization rinsing in a rinsing solvent solution.
US08778160B2	Method and apparatus for separating particles by dielectrophoresis Particle separation apparatus separate particles and particle populations using dielectrophoretic (DEP) forces generated by one or more pairs of electrically coupled electrodes separated by a gap. Particles suspended in a fluid are separated by DEP forces generated by the at least one electrode pair at the gap as they travel over a separation zone comprising the electrode pair. Selected particles are deflected relative to the flow of incoming particles by DEP forces that are affected by controlling applied potential, gap width, and the angle linear gaps with respect to fluid flow. The gap between an electrode pair may be a single, linear gap of constant gap, a single linear gap having variable width, or a be in the form of two or more linear gaps having constant or variable gap width having different angles with respect to one another and to the flow.
US08778157B2	Detecting analytes Provided is a method for processing a sample, which method comprises: a) contacting a binding phase, which binding phase is capable of binding an analyte, with the sample in the presence of a medium; b) applying across the medium a first alternating field composed of a plurality of pulses and having a first frequency, a first pulse duration and a first pulse rise time; c) optionally applying across the medium a second alternating field; and d) thereby influencing the sample and/or the binding phase in the medium.
US08778154B2	Method of measuring microparticles having nucleic acid and apparatus therefor To provide a system by which evaluation of circumstances of contamination by microparticles having nucleic acid can be performed rapidly and accurately. The theme is achieved by a system for measuring microparticles that includes: (1) a microparticle adhesion step of adhering the microparticles having nucleic acid to a microparticle adhesion member; (2) a membrane breakage step of breaking membranes of the adhered microparticles by electrical discharge; (3) an electrophoresis step of electrophoresing the microparticles in a thickness direction of a gel to make the nucleic acid in the microparticles migrate from a negative electrode side toward a positive electrode side and adhere the nucleic acid on a surface of a nucleic acid detection member; and (4) a nucleic acid measurement step of fluorescently staining the surface of the nucleic acid detection member to measure a concentration of the nucleic acid.
US08778152B2	Sensor used together with a detector to measure biomaterial, and apparatus using same The present invention relates to a sensor used together with a detector to measure biomaterial, and to an apparatus using same. A sensor of the present invention comprises: a body portion with a three-dimensional shape, having a biomaterial introduction hole, and attachable and detachable to/from a detector; a sensor portion with a plurality of reaction electrodes formed on one surface thereof, and a plurality of transfer electrodes formed on the other surface thereof; and an analyzer reagent fixed above the reaction electrodes. The sensor portion, together with the body portion, forms a reaction chamber connected to the biomaterial introduction hole, and is attached to the body portion such that the reaction electrodes are oriented toward the reaction chamber. According to the present invention, attachment and detachment is easy, even for the elderly, and the contamination of the sensor can be minimized.
US08778151B2	Plasma processing apparatus A plasma apparatus includes: a chamber which can be evacuated into vacuum; first electrode disposed within the chamber; a magnet mechanism having a magnet provided apart from and above the first electrode; a second electrode provided facing the first electrode; and a magnetic shield member provided in at least one of gaps between the first electrode and the magnet mechanism and between the first electrode and the second electrode.
US08778148B2	Electrolysis cell for hydrogen chloride electrolysis Apparatus for hydrogen chloride electrolysis, comprising a cathode that has a layer of nitrogen-doped carbon nanotubes having functional groups containing nitrogen.
US08778147B2	Method and tool for forming non-circular holes using a selectively coated electrode An electrochemical machining process for forming a non-circular hole from a substantially circular hole within a workpiece using an electrode. The electrode is made of an electrically conductive material and has insulated areas in which the electrically conductive material is coated with an insulating material, and exposed areas of metal or conductive material. The insulated areas and exposed areas extending in rows substantially along a longitudinal axis of the electrode. The electrode is first positioned in a substantially circular hole. An electric current is then applied to the electrode to electrochemically remove a predetermined amount of material from the substantially circular hole to form a non-circular hole. A variety of different non-circular shapes are achievable using the process.
US08778146B2	Method for manufacturing perpendicular magnetic recording medium A method for manufacturing with high productivity a magnetic recording medium having an MgO film is disclosed which uses a DC sputtering method. The method suppresses oxygen deficiency in the MgO film, and the MgO film has high crystallinity. The method includes at least a process of forming an intermediate layer of MgO on a nonmagnetic base by a reactive DC sputtering method that uses a target containing Mg and MgO in an oxygen-containing gas, and a process of forming a magnetic recording layer containing an L10 ordered alloy on the intermediate layer.
US08778143B2	Silicon purification method and silicon purification device The silicon purification method uses a silicon purification device including at least a crucible for loading a silicon metal and a plasma torch, and purifies the silicon metal by injecting a plasma gas from the plasma torch toward a melt surface of the silicon metal loaded in the crucible in a state where an angle formed by the melt surface and the plasma gas is set in the range of 20° to 80°.
US08778132B2	Support fixture for acid etching of PCD inserts A fixture for etching PCD drill inserts is provided. The fixture design allows the fixture to be injection molded, significantly reducing costs and allowing the fixture to be disposed of after a single use. The fixture allows for faster use and more accurate etching of the PCD insert.
US08778131B2	Use of dispersion adhesive-coated polyvinyl chloride sealing films for producing a seal This invention relates to a process for sealing an above-ground or underground structure. It involves in particular the use of non-reactive dispersion adhesive compounds. This process in particular has the advantage that good and long-lived adhesion can be achieved very quickly, and that in particular the non-reactive dispersion adhesives that are used have a small tendency to absorb the plasticizers present in the PVC sealing film, so that as a result this process is best suited to assure long-lasting adhesion of PVC films with various substrates.
US08778121B2	Method for laser-assisted bonding, substrates bonded in this manner and use thereof The present invention relates to a method for laser-assisted bonding of substrates, in which these are connected together firstly frictionally by pressing together and subsequently strengthening of the connection between the substrates is effected by activation in regions which is induced by laser irradiation. The invention likewise relates to substrates produced accordingly.
US08778119B2	Underbody convective blanket and method for manufacturing thereof A convective underbody blanket has a head portion and a body portion. Provided at the head portion is a non-inflatable head area surrounded by a channel that has arranged thereat at least one row of air apertures that are oriented toward the non-inflatable head area when the channel is inflated. At the body portion there is provided a non-inflatable body area. Along each longitudinal side of the body area there is at least one longitudinal channel. Each of the longitudinal channels is in fluid communication with the channel that surrounds the non-inflatable head area. The longitudinal channels that sandwich the non-inflatable body area extend substantially along the length of the non-inflatable body area and are in fluid communication with each other by way of a cross channel formed at the foot end of the blanket.
US08778117B2	Method for producing an integral, reinforced fibre composite component as well as a hollow fibre composite component A method for producing an integral reinforced fiber composite component comprising at least one hollow fiber reinforcing component and a shell component is disclosed and can include first providing a mold core having a target cross-section deviating from a round cross-section adaptable to an inner cross-section of the hollow reinforcing component, introducing the mold core into a cavity of the hollow reinforcing component and fixing it thereafter in the cavity with a fixing agent applying the hollow reinforcing component with the mold core fixed therein to the shell component, and subjecting the mold core to a pressurized medium while applying heat and/or pressure to this arrangement to produce the integral reinforced fiber composite component.
US08778116B2	Method for producing carbon nanotube-containing conductor A method for producing a carbon nanotube-containing conductor having a conductive layer on the surface of an objective substrate, the method including: pressing a carbon nanotube network layer, via a release substrate having the carbon nanotube network layer thereon, against a transparent objective substrate coated with an electron beam-curable liquid resin composition to infiltrate the liquid resin composition into the carbon nanotube network layer; irradiating it with electron beams to cure the liquid resin composition; and peeling away the release substrate to obtain an objective substrate having a resin composition layer with carbon nanotubes embedded in the surface thereof.
US08778114B2	Apparatus and methods to manufacture shaped counter top edges for custom counter tops A method of manufacturing a shaped counter top edge includes heating a sheet laminate to an elevated temperature, bending the sheet laminate to a formed laminate, and applying adhesive to at least one of the formed laminate or a substrate comprising a substrate upper face, a substrate lower face, and a substrate shaped edge positioned between the substrate upper face and the substrate lower face. The method also includes positioning the formed laminate proximate to the substrate upper face, the substrate lower face, and the substrate shaped edge, and clamping the formed laminate to the substrate upper face, the substrate lower face, and the substrate shaped edge of the substrate with a clamping press assembly until the adhesive cures to form a substrate/laminate assembly from the formed laminate and the substrate. The method further includes cutting a portion of the substrate/laminate assembly to form the shaped counter top edge.
US08778113B2	Method for continuously forming lamination optical function element sheet and lamination optical function element sheet forming apparatus Provided are a method and an apparatus for continuously forming a laminated optical function element sheet which has optical function elements formed on three or more faces by laminating a first optical function element sheet which has an optical function element formed on both of the front and back faces with a second optical function element sheet which has an optical function element formed on at least one of the two faces. The method comprises a first optical function element sheet forming step of molding, forming, or printing an optical function element on both of the front and back faces of a first base film, a second optical function element sheet forming step of molding, forming or printing an optical function element on at least one of the two faces of a second base film, and a laminating and bonding step of simultaneously performing the first and second optical function element sheet forming steps to laminate and bond the formed first and second optical function element sheets and form a laminated optical function element sheet.
US08778108B2	Laminating apparatus and laminating method therefor, and printing apparatus A laminating apparatus is composed of a transporting device for transporting a card, a film supplying device for supplying a film, a compression bonding device for thermally compression bonding a laminate material on the film onto the card, a driving device for shifting the compression bonding device from a standby location to a compression bonding location, a film taking-up device for taking up the film, a first guide for guiding the film in a supply side of the film, a second guide for guiding the film in a take-up side of the film, and a third guide for guiding the film in an upstream side of the second guide and in a downstream side of the compression bonding device, wherein the third guide moves in conjunction with the compression bonding device.
US08778105B1	Carbon nanotubes containing confined copper azide The invention concerns copper azide containing carbon nanotubes. The invention also concerns methods of producing such nanotubes by placing CuO nanoparticles within carbon nanotubes to produce CuO-containing carbon nanotubes, contacting CuO-containing carbon nanotubes with hydrogen to produce reduced nanotubes; and contacting the reduced nanotubes with hydrazoic acid to produce copper azide containing carbon nanotubes.
US08778104B1	Insensitive gun propellant, ammunition round assembly, armament system, and related methods A substantially nitrocellulose-free insensitive gun propellant for barrel-type weapons is provided. The gun propellant includes at least one nitramine, such as HMX and/or RDX, a second energetic, and an inert binder system. The gun propellant is capable of producing a maximum projectile velocity exceeding 2680 ft/sec when fired from a 5 inch 54 caliber gun and gives a response to slow cook-off insensitive munitions testing of Type 4 or higher, and a response to fragment impact insensitive munitions testing of Type 3 or higher as measured by STANAG 4382 and STANAG 4496, respectively. Also provided is an ammunition round assembly, and an armament system.
US08778097B2	Low specific gravity and high strength steel sheets with excellent ridging resistibility and manufacturing methods thereof A low specific gravity and high strength steel sheet includes C of 0.2% to 0.8%, Mn of 2% to 10%, P of 0.02% or less, S of 0.015% or less, Al of 3% to 15%, and N of 0.01% or less. A ratio of Mn/Al is 0.4 to 1.0. Retained austenite in a structure is included in the range of 1% or more. The steel sheet further includes one or two or more elements selected from the group consisting of Si of 0.1% to 2.0%, Cr of 0.1% to 0.3%, Mo of 0.05% to 0.5%, Ni of 0.1% to 2.0%, Cu of 0.1% to 1.0%, B of 0.0005% to 0.003%, Ti of 0.01% to 0.2%, Zr of 0.005% to 0.2%, Nb of 0.005% to 0.2%, W of 0.1% to 1.0%, Sb of 0.005% to 0.2%, and Ca of 0.001% to 0.2%.
US08778096B2	Low yield ratio, high strength and high toughness steel plate and method for manufacturing the same Provided is a low yield ratio, high strength and high toughness steel plate having excellent strain ageing resistance equivalent to API 5L X70 Grade or lower and a method for manufacturing the same. The steel plate has a metallographic microstructure that is a three-phase microstructure including bainite, M-A constituent, and quasi-polygonal ferrite, the area fraction of the bainite being 5% to 70%, the area fraction of the M-A constituent being 3% to 20%, the remainder being the quasi-polygonal ferrite, the equivalent circle diameter of the M-A constituent being 3.0 μm or less. The steel plate has a yield ratio of 85% or less and a Charpy impact test absorbed energy of 200 J or more at −30° C. before or after being subjected to strain ageing treatment at a temperature of 250° C. or lower for 30 minutes or less.
US08778090B2	Method for operating a dishwasher A method to operate a dishwasher, comprising: (1) adding detergent to a cleaning liquid which is circulated within the dishwasher; (2) measuring the conductivity of the cleaning liquid and determining the rate of change in conductivity caused by dissolution of the detergent in the cleaning liquid; (3) comparing the rate of change in conductivity with a predetermined threshold value so as to determine the dissolution rate of the detergent that has been added in step (A) to the cleaning liquid; and (4) adjusting operating parameters based on the determination of step (C).
US08778089B2	Dishwasher and a control method therefor In the dishwasher and the control method therefor of the present invention, the turbidity of washing water is measured and, if it is decided that the level of dirtiness of the tableware is low, then the time over which a heater operates during the washing routine is reduced and, instead, the time over which the heater operates during the rinsing routine is increased. This is advantageous in that it can improve the performance of the drying which is carried out after the rinsing routine. Further, if it is decided that the level of dirtiness of the tableware is high, then the time over which the heater operates during the washing routine is increased and the time over which the heater operates during the rinsing routine is reduced. This is advantageous in that the washing performance can be improved while the overall heater operating time can be maintained.
US08778087B2	Conical sponge brush for cleaning semiconductor wafers A cleaning device for cleaning a substrate is provided. In one aspect, the cleaning device includes a brush including a first end, a second end opposed to the first end, an outer surface, and a hollow bore defined in the brush about a central axis of the brush. The brush defines a first cross-sectional area near the first end and a second cross-sectional area near the second end. Both the first and second cross-sectional areas are generally perpendicular to the central axis and the second cross-sectional area is greater than the first cross-sectional area.
US08778085B2	Dissolved nitrogen concentration monitoring method, substrate cleaning method, and substrate cleaning apparatus A dissolved nitrogen concentration monitoring method is used for monitoring a dissolved nitrogen concentration of a cleaning liquid when an ultrasonic wave is irradiated onto the cleaning liquid in which a substrate is dipped. The method includes measuring an amount of increase of a dissolved oxygen concentration of the cleaning liquid resulting from an oxygen molecule generated from a water molecule as a result of a radical reaction caused by ultrasonic wave irradiation. A dissolved nitrogen concentration of the cleaning liquid is calculated from the measured amount of increase of dissolved oxygen concentration based on a predetermined relationship between a dissolved nitrogen concentration and an amount of increase of dissolved oxygen concentration.
US08778076B2	Foundry coating composition A foundry coating composition for molds and cores, a process for preparing coated foundry molds and cores, and coated molds and cores obtainable by the process. The foundry coating composition comprises a liquid carrier; a binder; and a particulate refractory filler. The particulate refractory filler comprises a first (relatively coarse) fraction having a particle size of d>38 μm and a second (relatively fine) fraction having a particle size of d<38 μm. No more than 10% of the total particulate refractory filler has a particle size of 38 μm38 μm) and an absorbed coating (comprising particles of d<38 μm).
US08778056B2	Zeolite membrane and process for producing zeolite membrane There are provided a process for producing a zeolite membrane which, even when large, has few defects and which has higher separation performance than conventional zeolite membranes, and a zeolite membrane obtained by the process. In the process, the structure-directing agent is removed in the atmosphere having an O2 concentration of 22.0 vol % or more. Specifically, the process includes: a particle adhesion step of allowing zeolite particles functioning as seeds to flow down the surface of the substrate by means of the weight of the slurry itself, thereby adhering to the substrate and a membrane-forming step of forming a zeolite membrane on the substrate by immersing the substrate having the zeolite particles adhering thereto in sol containing the structure-directing agent for hydrothermal synthesis, thereby forming a zeolite membrane on the substrate.
US08778054B2	Power station and method for operating the same A method for generating heat energy in a power plant by burning a carbonaceous fuel in a combustion chamber of the power plant and a system for carrying out the method is described. A combustion chamber is fluidly connected to a membrane chamber that includes a membrane operating at a temperature between 600 and 1000° C. The combustion chamber receives a cleaned flue-gas oxygen mixture for combustion from the membrane chamber. Oxygen from heated air passes through the membrane in the membrane chamber to the permeate side of the membrane, where it is mixed with cleaned heated flue gas and the resulting gas mixture is fed to the combustion chamber. Flue gas removed from the combustion chamber are cooled, cleaned and heated as described herein and recirculated to the membrane chamber.
US08778053B2	Method of removing ash from particulate filter A method of removing ash from a wall flow type particulate filter which is arranged in an exhaust passage of an internal combustion engine in which combustion is performed in an excess of oxygen for trapping particulate matter in exhaust gas, using a solid acid which is carried on the particulate filter, renders the state of the particulate filter a state where the exhaust gas which flows into the particulate filter is lowered in concentration of oxygen and the particulate filter is raised in temperature, and then renders the state of the particulate filter a state where the exhaust gas which flows into the particulate filter in an oxidizing atmosphere contains SOx.
US08778051B2	Pressure swing adsorption process A process for separating a primary gas component from a feed gas mixture comprising the primary gas component and secondary gas components in four or more adsorption beds. The process comprises subjecting each of the four or more adsorption beds to a repetitive cycle. The repetitive cycle comprises, in sequence, a feed step, a pressure decreasing equalization step, a provide purge step, a blowdown step, a purge step, a pressure increasing equalization step, and a repressurization step. During the pressure decreasing equalization step, rinse gas is co-currently introduced simultaneous with the withdrawal of pressure equalization gas. Rinse gas is formed by compressing blowdown gas and/or purge gas effluent from the adsorption bed undergoing the purge step. The process is particularly suited for separating H2 from a reformate stream.
US08778050B2	Heavy hydrocarbon removal process A process for removing heavy hydrocarbons from a natural gas stream comprises passing the natural gas stream thought a TSA adsorbent unit to adsorb heavy hydrocarbons, regenerating the TSA adsorbent by heating to form a contaminant-containing gas phase, cooling the contaminated gas phase to separate water and heavy hydrocarbon liquids to form a third gas phase and directing the third gas phase to a PSA unit to adsorb heavy hydrocarbons from the third gas phase. The product from the PSA unit can be sent to pipeline or recycled to the TSA unit for further hydrocarbon removal and recovery.
US08778047B2	Flutable fiber webs with high dust holding capacity The fiber webs described herein may be incorporated into filter media and filter elements. The fiber webs may exhibit a high dust holding capacity. The fiber webs may also exhibit a low thickness. The fiber webs may be sufficiently flexible and/or deformable so that they may be processed to include a series of waves (also known as flutes) that extend along the cross-machine direction.
US08778046B2	Flutable fiber webs with high dust holding capacity The fiber webs described herein may be incorporated into filter media and filter elements. The fiber webs may exhibit a high dust holding capacity. The fiber webs may also exhibit a low thickness. The fiber webs may be sufficiently flexible and/or deformable so that they may be processed to include a series of waves (also known as flutes) that extend along the cross-machine direction.
US08778042B2	Flat duct vent filter cover An exterior duct filter retainer used in connection with a heating and air conditioning vent, the duct filter retainer including a filter body constructed of a material that is air permeable yet catches particles exiting the vent, the filter body having a an attachment assembly connected to the filter body; the attachment assembly being adapted to attach the filter body such that the filter is against and/or in registry with the vent. The filter body can be flat, and the attachment assembly can use a variety of means to attach the filter body in registry with the vent.
US08778041B2	Exhaust gas treatment device for an oxygen combustion system In an exhaust gas treatment device provided with: an exhaust gas treatment unit in which an oxygen combustion boiler 1 using coal as fuel, a denitration device 3, an air preheater 4, a dust-collection device 5, a desulfurization device 6, and a carbon dioxide recovery device 8 are sequentially arranged from the upstream side to the downstream side of an exhaust gas duct; and an exhaust gas circulation unit which branches off from the exhaust gas duct at an outlet of the dust-collection device 5 or an outlet of the desulfurization device 6 and through which the exhaust gas is preheated by the air preheater 4 and returned to the oxygen combustion boiler 1, a heat-recovery heat exchanger 13 that adjusts a gas temperature at an inlet of the dust-collection device 5 to be not greater than an acid dew point of SO3 and not lower than a water dew point is provided between the air preheater 4 and the dust-collection device 5, a reheating heat exchanger 13 that adjusts a gas temperature to be not lower than the acid dew point of SO3 is provided in the vicinity of a branch of the exhaust gas circulation unit, adjusting the gas temperature at the inlet of the dust-collection device 4 to be not greater than the acid dew point of SO3 makes it possible to prevent corrosion of pipes in the exhaust gas circulation unit and to avoid a decrease in fluidity or combustibility of the pulverized coal in the pipes in the mill.
US08778040B1	Superabrasive elements, methods of manufacturing, and drill bits including same Methods of manufacturing a superabrasive element are disclosed. In one embodiment, a substrate and a preformed superabrasive volume may be at least partially surrounded by an enclosure and the enclosure may be sealed in an inert environment. Further, the enclosure may be exposed to an elevated pressure and preformed superabrasive volume may be affixed to the substrate. Polycrystalline diamond elements are disclosed. In one embodiment, a polycrystalline diamond element may comprise a preformed polycrystalline diamond volume bonded to a substrate by a braze material. Optionally, such a polycrystalline diamond element may exhibit a compressive stress. Rotary drill bit for drilling a subterranean formation and including at least one superabrasive element are also disclosed.
US08778039B2	Composite material for further processing into sheet-like abrasive products and process for the production thereof The invention relates to an elastically deformable composite material suitable to be processed further into sheet-like abrasive products, comprising a sheet-like supporting base coated or impregnated with a prepolymer material which obtains thermosetting properties when thermally post-cured, or consisting of a coated or impregnated supporting base, characterized in that the supporting base comprises at least one layer of bonded fibers selected among inorganic fibers and organic synthetic fibers, if necessary mixed with natural fibers. Moreover, it relates to a method for the manufacture of the composite material.
US08778032B2	Gentle oxidation hair color with medium oxidan composition The subject matter of the present invention is an oxidative coloring agent for oxidatively changing the color of keratinic fibers, in particular human hair, which is produced immediately before utilization by mixing at least one composition (A) containing, in a cosmetically suitable carrier, at least one alkalizing agent, at least one oxidation dye precursor of the developer type, and at least one oxidation dye precursor of the coupler type, with at least one composition (B) containing, in a cosmetically suitable carrier, at least one cosmetic oil in a total quantity from 10 to 80 wt % based on the weight of composition (B), and hydrogen peroxide, wherein at least one of the compositions (A) or (B) contains at least one 4-morpholinomethyl-substituted silicone of formula (V).
US08778030B2	Load bearing implants A load bearing implant comprising a femoral implant stem made from a bio-compatible metal having an elastic modulus far greater than that of natural bone. When the implant heals within a bone cavity, the implant essentially carries substantially the entire load. Transfer of load to the surrounding bone tissue is lost due to lack of use after healing. Flexing a stiff implant applies a large load at the implant distal end. The bone cortex is thereby allowed to thicken, causing thigh pain long after implant healing. The femoral implant has a bone ingrowth coating on the proximal end, allowing firm attachment of the implant in the bone cavity. The distal end has a central aperture and a helical machined groove that permits flexing of the distal portion of the femoral implant stem. This flexing occurs in a manner similar to surrounding bone tissue, preventing thigh pain.
US08778028B2	Methods and devices for less invasive glenoid replacement The invention relates to a glenoid (shoulder socket) implant prosthesis, a humeral implant prosthesis, devices for implanting glenoid and humeral implant prostheses, and less invasive methods of their use for the treatment of an injured or damaged shoulder.
US08778027B2	Implant apparatus and method including tee and screw mechanism for spinal fusion An implant apparatus and a method for spinal fusion from oblique, lateral, ALIF, PLIF, and TLIF approach. The apparatus can include an expandable implant cage and an inserter. The cage can be inserted between endplates of upper and lower vertebra using lateral, ALIF, PLIF, and/or TLIF approaches. The cage generally includes a male and female screw configuration and a cage expansion mechanism. The inserter inserts the cage in a spinal disc space and tightens the male and female screw arrangement. Once the cage is inserted to the desired position, the male portion of the screw can be tightened until final deployment of cage has been achieved. Tightening of male and female screw arrangement operates the cage expansion mechanism to expand the cage size. The cage can be inserted through a smaller surgical opening and then expanded to a full size assembly between the vertebrae.
US08778024B2	Tensioned meniscus prosthetic devices and associated methods A prosthetic device for use as an artificial meniscus is disclosed. The prosthetic device restores shock absorption, stability, and function to the knee joint after removal of the damaged natural meniscus. In some embodiments, the prosthetic device is pre-tensioned to improve the fit of the prosthetic device within the knee joint and, thereby, maximize the contact area of the load-bearing surfaces to distribute loading through the prosthetic device in a manner substantially similar to that of a healthy natural meniscus. In some embodiments, the pre-tensioned prosthetic device is smaller, or scaled-down, relative to the size of a healthy natural meniscus.
US08778016B2	Method and apparatus for repairing or replacing chordae tendinae A method and apparatus for performing mitral valve chordal repair on a patient include attaching at least one filament to a mitral valve leaflet and to a papillary muscle. A first end of a filament can be attached to the mitral valve leaflet and the length of the filament can be adjusted by adjusting the tension of the filament in a catheter. The second end of the filament can be attached to an attachment site.
US08778015B2	Interventional medical device for use in MRI A medical device with metal parts to be introduced into animal or human bodies is rendered visible during RMN imaging by covering the exterior surface of the metal parts with a layer comprising Nickel monoxide. When placed within the electromagnetic field generated by a NMR apparatus, the layer reduces disturbances induced in this field in the vicinity of the metal part. This improvement is chiefly related to endoprostheses for subjects or patients who will be submitted to NMR imaging. In particular, the invention is aimed at luminal endoprostheses comprising a metal frame, as stents.
US08778013B2	Re-establishment of blood flow in blocked human arteries by transferring nano-encapsulated drug through medical devices, designed for the same and releasing the nano-encapsulated drug in human artery with body ph A drug-delivering insertable medical device for treating a medical condition associated with a body lumen is disclosed. The drug-delivering insertable medical device includes an outer surface coated with two or more nano-carriers having two or more average diameters. A nano-carrier of the two or more nano-carriers has an average diameter suitable for penetrating one or more layers of two or more layers of the body lumen. The nano-carrier includes a drug surrounded by an encapsulating medium. The encapsulating medium includes one or more of a biological agent, a blood excipient, and a phospholipid.
US08778012B2	ECM constructs for tissue regeneration An extracellular matrix (ECM) construct having a biodegradable support scaffold that includes a plurality of biodegradable microneedles that are capable of piercing tissue and anchoring therein, and at least a first layer of first ECM material disposed on the top surface of the support scaffold.
US08778011B2	Soft crowns Soft crowns are provided for use in a medical device. Soft crowns may reduce the incidence of tissue perforations as a medical device engages a luminal wall. In certain embodiments, a soft crown may include a first strut and a second strut interconnected by an end portion. The end portion may include a third strut and a fourth strut that intersect to form a distal end of the soft crown. The first strut and the second strut may intersect other struts in the medical device to attach the crown thereto. The soft crown may bend or pivot about a plane defined by the intersections of the first strut and the second strut to the medical device.
US08778006B2	Delivery system having a release mechanism for releasing an object carried by a catheter as well as a release mechanism of a delivery system A delivery system having a release mechanism (70) for releasing an object (12), in particular, a supporting body, which is carried by the catheter (20), whereby the catheter (20) has at least one outer shaft (50) which is relatively displaceable toward the object (12) to release the object (12). The catheter (20) has a winding device (100) on its proximal end (24) which winds up a proximal section (52) of the outer shaft (50) to create a relative displacement of the outer shaft (50).
US08778003B2	Method and apparatus for personal skin treatment Disclosed is a skin treatment device for personal use. The device includes an optical radiation providing module operating in pulsed or continuous operation mode, a mechanism for continuously displacing the device across the skin, and a device displacement speed monitoring arrangement. When the device is applied to skin, the optical pulses repetition rate establishes the power of the optical radiation as a function of the device displacement speed. The device a hair removal mechanism configured to mechanically remove hair from the treated segment of the skin.
US08777999B2	Variable angle locking plate system A plate system for controlling relative positions of adjacent bone portions. The plate system has a plate with first and second spaced through bores, an insert consisting of first and second insert pieces in the first bore, and a first fastener. The first plate bore, first and second insert pieces, and first fastener are configured so that advancing of the first fastener into the first bore and one of the adjacent bone portions causes the first fastener to be fixed in a selected one of a plurality of different potential angular orientations for the first fastener. The system further has a second fastener for direction through the second bore and into the other of the adjacent bone portions.
US08777996B2	Interspinous ligament transverse connector The present invention includes the steps for creating an access path to the posterior portion of the spine, positioning a first and second elongate rod longitudinally on opposing portions of the spine, piercing a portion of the interspinous ligament with a third elongate rod, and positioning the third elongate rod connecting the first and second elongated rods in a cross connection assembly. The cross connection assembly includes a one-piece connecting body comprising a receptacle facing outwards towards the first rod and away from the second rod and a clamp, and a set screw selectively positioned to securely hold the connecting body to the first rod. The connecting body is disposed substantially between the first and second elongate rods. The clamp allows the connecting body to slidingly engage with the third rod.
US08777992B2	Methods for anchoring suture and approximating tissue An elastically curved suture anchor is resiliently straightened and delivered into tissue by a needle. When the needle is withdrawn, resumption of the curvature provides leverage for anchor rotation as the attached suture is pulled to fasten the anchor within the tissue. A fin at the proximal end of the anchor further increases the rotational leverage and expedites anchor fastening. When two or more anchors with connecting suture are delivered in series on a needle, the tension of the suture helps to draw the anchors together and approximates the pierced tissue.
US08777990B2	Knotless suture anchor for soft tissue repair and method of use A knotless suture anchor provides a method for securing soft tissue to a rigid structure such as bone. The anchor has an inner member that receives suture thread and rotates within an outer tubular member. As the inner member rotates, the suture thread is wrapped onto the inner member thereby increasing contact with the outer tubular member which applies pressure to the wrapped suture thread to retain it in position on the inner member while simultaneously and adjustably tensioning the suture thread. A ratchet prevents undesirable counter-rotation, although the ratchet can be released to permit loosening of the suture thread. Also described is a suture bridge and suture platform for providing further stabilization of a tendon. A method for repairing rotator cuff tears is also described.
US08777989B2	Subcutaneous sinusoidal wound closure utilizing one-way suture Subcutaneous sinusoidal wound-closure techniques use one-way sutures. The one-way sutures have tissue-grasping surface features which allow passage of the suture in one direction through tissue, but not in the opposite direction. In closing a wound, the one-way suture is deployed along a curvilinear path which passes alternately through subcutaneous tissue on opposed sides of the wound. The wound-closure techniques allow approximation of the sides of the wound without knots, avoid loop stitching and reduce scarring.
US08777988B2	Methods for using self-retaining sutures in endoscopic procedures Endoscopic methods utilize self-retaining sutures to approximate tissue in a cavity of a subject. An endoscopic instrument is provided containing the self-retaining suture. The endoscopic instrument may be provided in combination with an endoscope and/or an endoscopic manipulator. The endoscopic instrument is passed through a cavity wall into a cavity of a patient. The self-retaining suture is deployed, using the endoscopic instrument, into a first tissue portion and a second tissue portion within the cavity. The self-retaining suture may be deployed endoscopically in patterns which include, purse string stitch, alpha stitch, linear stitching, curvilinear stitching, continuous helical stitch, and continuous sinusoidal stitch.
US08777986B2	Incision guide and wound closure device and methods therefor An incision guide and wound closure device includes a surgical mesh having a top surface and a bottom surface, and first and second incision guides affixed to the top surface of the surgical mesh. The bottom surface of the mesh is adhered to tissue using clear or translucent adhesive. The first and second incision guides have opposing alignment surfaces that are adapted to guide a cutting instrument for making an incision through the mesh and into the tissue. The device has a closing element that is moveable along the length of the respective first and second incision guides for drawing the first and second alignment surfaces toward one another for closing the incision opening in the tissue.
US08777984B2	Patent foramen ovale closure device A device and method for deploying a mechanical closure device for closing a passageway in a body, for example a patent foramen ovale (PFO) in a heart. The deployment device has a first tubular structure having proximal and distal ends. A second tubular structure is substantially coaxial to and slideably engaged within the first tubular structure. The second tubular structure has a first substantially linear shape when constrained within the first tubular structure, and a second curvilinear shape when telescopically extended from the distal end of the first tubular structure. A third tubular structure is substantially coaxial to and slideably engaged within the second tubular structure. The third tubular structure is configured to provide sufficient rigidity to push the mechanical closure device from the distal end of the second tubular structure, and provide sufficient flexibility to assume a curvilinear shape when deflected by the second tubular structure.
US08777981B2	Multi-lumen central access vena cava filter apparatus and method of using same A combined multi-lumen central access catheter and an embolic filter including ports proximal and distal the filter for fluid infusion and/or pressure sensing and infusion ports in the catheter to permit infusion of bioactive agents, flushing agents and/or contrast agents. The embolic filter may be removably coupled to the multi-lumen catheter for temporary placement and retrieval under recommended indications.
US08777980B2	Intravascular filter with debris entrapment mechanism Apparatus for filtering and entrapping debris in the vascular system of a patient, the apparatus including a filter to allow blood to flow therethrough and to restrict passage of debris, wherein the filter captures debris carried in a first direction of blood flow. The apparatus further includes an entrapment mechanism which allows passage of debris and blood therethrough, in the first direction of blood flow and prevents debris passage in a second direction. The entrapment mechanism and filter allow blood and debris therethrough in the first direction of blood flow. The entrapment mechanism prevents debris flow in the second direction of blood flow. A method for filtering and entrapping debris in the vascular system includes inserting the apparatus into the vascular system, allowing blood and debris carried therein to flow through the entrapment mechanism, and removing the apparatus and accumulated debris from the vascular system.
US08777976B2	Clot capture systems and associated methods A clot capture system for disengaging a clot 2001 from a vessel wall 2002 and removing the clot 2001 from the vessel 202, includes a clot capture device 2140 for placement on a distal side of a clot 2001. The clot capture device 2140 has a retracted delivery configuration and an expanded deployed configuration. The clot removal device has a proximal support frame 2012, and a distal fiber net 2130. The support frame 2012 has a retracted delivery configuration and an expanded deployed configuration. The proximal support frame 2012 in the expanded configuration defines a proximal inlet mouth for engaging a clot 2001 and a net 2130 for confining the clot 2001. An elongate member facilitates capture and/or withdrawal of a clot 2001 from a vessel 2002. The system also includes a clot debonding device 2091 for placement on a proximal side of a clot 2001. The clot debonding device 2091 has a retracted delivery configuration and an expanded deployed configuration and includes a clot engagement element 2112 which defines a distal abutment in the deployed configuration for urging a clot 2001 into the clot capture device 2140.
US08777973B2	Lancer A lancer device that enables a user to draw blood from a patient and discard the used lancet without touching it. The device also has an adjustable tip for selecting the depth of stylet penetration into the patient and a triggering mechanism that utilizes a yoke latch and a leaf spring to discharge the lancet. The lancer also has a dampening feature to reduce vibrations when the lancet is moving.
US08777971B2	Device and method for joining vessels in anastomosis Devices and methods for attaching an end of a body vessel to another body vessel are disclosed. An adhesive may be used along with a rigid member having one or more protrusions. The invention is useful in surgery, especially vascular surgery and the creation of anastomoses.
US08777969B2	Surgical fasteners Surgical fasteners, including tacks are disclosed for fastening a surgical mesh to underlying tissue during surgical procedures to repair body tissue, such as in hernia repair. Such tacks can include a head, a elongated body portion having a distal end and a proximal end, and an anchoring element on an outer surface of the body portion for inhibiting the removal of the tack from the mesh and body tissue.
US08777967B2	Methods and devices for anchoring to tissue The present invention relates to a tissue securement system, device and method for endoscopy or endosonography-guided transluminal interventions through which a ligation is placed and secured into tissue. An objective of this invention is to provide a stable securement platform for the coupling of secondary anchors to the gastrointestinal tract. Specifically, endoscopy is used to insert an anchoring element through the walls of adjacent body cavities. The ends of the anchoring element are coupled together to form a loop. This anchoring element can be used to secure other anchors or devices to the gastrointestinal tract.
US08777966B2	Apparatus and method for heart valve repair A transcatheter method of gathering tissue of a heart valve leaflet may include inserting an elongated catheter assembly to a position adjacent the heart valve leaflet, the catheter assembly including a capture tool moveable between a retracted position and an extended position, a tissue support, and a clamping member moveable between an open position and a closed position. The capture tool may be partially retracted to gather tissue of the heart valve leaflet between the tissue support and the clamping member. The clamping member may then be moved from the open position toward the closed position so as to clamp a substantial portion of the gathered tissue of the heart valve leaflet between the tissue support and the clamping member. Subsequently, a clip may be applied from the catheter assembly to the clamped tissue so as to hold the clamped tissue substantially in a gathered configuration.
US08777955B2	Arthroplasty systems and devices, and related methods Systems for manufacturing arthroplasty jigs are disclosed. The systems include positioning components for positioning an arthroplasty jig blank in a machining device (e.g., a computer numerical control (CNC) machine). Arthroplasty jig blanks that may be used in the systems can include an arm fixture component configured to be coupled to the positioning component. Coupling the arm fixture component to the positioning component positions the jig blank body for machining by the machining device. In addition, positioning components, arthroplasty jig blanks, and methods for making arthroplasty jig blanks are disclosed.
US08777954B2	Pedicle screw extension for use in percutaneous spinal fixation A bone screw extension assembly for use in placing a connecting rod percutaneously into tissue of a patient comprises a multi-axial bone screw and a screw extension releasably coupled to yoke of the bone screw. The screw extension includes coaxially disposed outer sleeve and inner sleeves that are movable axially relative to each other. A screw engaging member projects radially from the distal end of the inner sleeve and is configured to releasably engage an extension coupling surface on the inner surface of opposed upstanding arms of the yoke. A securement member including cooperative surfaces is defined adjacent the distal end of the inner and outer sleeves that is operable upon relative axial movement of the inner and outer sleeves to radially secure the sleeves together for minimization of splaying and to thereby maintain the engagement of the screw engaging member and the bone screw.
US08777950B2	Apparatus and methods for separating internal bone fixation device from introducer Apparatus and methods for separating an internal bone fixation device from an introducer are disclosed herein. A device for separating an internal bone fixation device from an introducer includes a functional portion having an outer shaft surrounding and controlling operation of a cutting mechanism; and a control portion having an actuating mechanism for initiating activation of the outer shaft.
US08777947B2	Telescoping IM nail and actuating mechanism A length-adjustable IM nail system includes a telescoping IM nail with proximal and distal bodies. An inner magnet within the proximal body is connected to a threaded rod which, in turn, is connected to the distal body. The threaded rod passes through a threaded block which is connected to the proximal body. The position of the distal end of the threaded rod is fixed with respect to the distal body, but may rotate freely within this fixed position. An actuator is also disclosed that includes a pair of rotating magnets disposed in an angular relationship with each other and the axis of the IM nail and the patient's limb. Rotation of these outer magnets in the same direction results in rotation of the inner magnet and threaded rod and a telescoping axial movement of the threaded block and proximal body with respect to the distal body.
US08777945B2	Method and system for monitoring tissue during an electrosurgical procedure A system for monitoring and/or controlling tissue modification during an electrosurgical procedure includes an electrosurgical apparatus connected to an electrosurgical generator and configured to grasp tissue therebetween via a pair of jaw members. The system also includes an optical system having an optical source that directs light through tissue. One or more optical detectors analyze the light transmitted through and reflected back from the tissue and a processor utilizes this information to control the delivery of electrosurgical energy from the electrosurgical generator to the tissue.
US08777941B2	Adjustable impedance electrosurgical electrodes An electrosurgical system is disclosed. The electrosurgical system includes at least one electrosurgical electrode having a resistive element and a capacitive element configured in series. The electrosurgical system also including an electrosurgical generator configured to generate electrosurgical energy having a first frequency which generates a first impedance in the at least one electrode due to capacitive reactance of the capacitive element in series. The generator is further configured to adjust the first frequency to at least one other frequency to generate a different impedance in the at least one electrode due to capacitive reactance of the capacitive element in series, thereby adjusting the temperature of at least one electrosurgical electrode.
US08777938B2	Fan-beam microwave horn for bloodless resection A method of resection of an organ employs a handheld microwave waveguide that receives a microwave signal and applies a substantially planar microwave beam into the organ for coagulation of a strip of tissue in an organ providing a barrier against blood loss during resection operations.
US08777932B2	Catheter connectors and systems, and methods of using same Catheter connectors, systems, and methods of use in which a catheter is attached to a connector such that the catheter is retained on the connector by inward radial compression between an outer surface of a hollow pin located within the catheter and a collet fitted over the portion of the catheter containing the pin. The collet may be moved from an unlocked position to a locked position by axial displacement of the collet along a longitudinal axis of the connector.
US08777931B2	Retractable luer lock fittings The system has a male tubing fitting extending along a longitudinal axis. The male tubing fitting has a first internal bore and an end portion including a male plug. The system also has a female tubing fitting that has a second internal bore configured to receive the male plug. Also, the system has a collar disposed about the male tubing fitting and positioned to slide freely along the longitudinal axis from a first position to a second position. In the first position the male and female tubing fittings are unlocked with respect to each other such that the male plug is removably insertable into the second internal bore of the female tubing fitting. In the second position the male and female fittings are locked with respect to each other such that the male plug is prevented from being removed from the second internal bore of the female tubing fitting.
US08777929B2	Auto lock for catheter handle The present invention is a catheter actuation handle for deflecting a distal end of a tubular catheter body, the handle including an auto-locking mechanism. The handle comprises upper and lower grip portions, an actuator, and an auto-locking mechanism. The auto-locking mechanism is adapted to hold a deflected distal end of the catheter in place without input from the operator. When the distal end of the catheter is deflected from its zero position, it typically will seek a return to its zero position, and as a result exerts a force on the actuator. The auto-locking mechanism acts by providing a second force that resists this force from the distal end and holds the distal end in place. As a result, the operator does not need to maintain contact with the buttons to maintain the distal end in a set position once placed there by actuating the actuator.
US08777928B2	Selective surface modification of catheter tubing A catheter shaft and methods for making and using the same. The catheter shaft may include a core portion, a cap portion, and one or more lumens. The cap portion may be disposed on or over a section of the core portion and define a region with a different exterior or interior surface characteristic. For example, the cap portion may define a lubricious region along the catheter shaft. Manufacturing the catheter shaft may include a modified co-extrusion process that incorporates a flow valve on at least one of the material supply lines so that the supply line can be regulated by a user.
US08777927B2	Apparatus and system for administering medication A method and apparatus for administering medication. The method and apparatus includes providing a treatment tube having a wall with an exterior surface and a central lumen. The treatment tube also includes at least one hollow tubular channel disposed within the wall of the treatment tube. Medication is delivered supplied to the hollow tubular channel and delivered through the wall of the treatment tube to the exterior surface of the treatment tube.
US08777921B2	Sterile sampling methods and apparatus An apparatus and method that allow multiple samples of a liquid in a primary container (here called a ‘pouch’) to be taken with minimal danger of contaminating the liquid in the container during the sampling process are disclosed. In an embodiment, a closed sterile sight chamber is connected with the pouch in a sterile manner to allow fluid to flow into the chamber while at the same time allowing air within the chamber to be displaced through a bacterial filter to atmosphere. The connection between the sight chamber and the pouch is then terminated (severed or closed), isolating the pouch from the sampling apparatus. Only then are samples of liquid withdrawn from the sight chamber, while allowing air to flow into the chamber through the bacterial filter.
US08777919B2	Fastening tab and method of making the same A fastening tab is provided having a substrate with a main portion, a user's end portion extending from the main portion, a primary mechanical fastening patch having a side edge coterminous with the side edge of the user's end portion of the substrate, and first and second auxiliary mechanical fastening patches on the main portion of the substrate. A method of making a fastening tab is also disclosed. The method includes attaching multiple discrete patches of mechanical fastener to a substrate web extending in the machine direction, cutting through the substrate web and the multiple patches of mechanical fastener in the machine direction with a continuous, meandering cut to provide two sub-webs, and optionally providing cross-web direction cuts through each sub-web to provide a plurality of fastening tabs. An absorbent article including the fastening tab and webs of fastening tabs are also included.
US08777917B2	Absorbent article having an anchored core assembly Embodiments of the present disclosure include disposable wearable absorbent articles with anchoring systems. In an embodiment, a disposable wearable absorbent article includes an absorbent core, an outer cover, and an anchoring system configured to anchor the absorbent core to a wearer, wherein the outer cover includes a first portion, in which substantially all of the anchoring system is integral with the outer cover, and a second portion, outside of the first portion.
US08777913B2	Absorbent articles and method for manufacturing the same An absorbent product comprises a backsheet having a first lateral end edge, a second lateral end edge, a first longitudinal side edge, and a second longitudinal side edge. The absorbent product further comprises a first longitudinal line of weakness laterally inboard of the first longitudinal side edge, a second longitudinal line of weakness laterally inboard of the second longitudinal side edge, a first lateral line of weakness longitudinally inboard of the first lateral end edge, and a second lateral line of weakness longitudinally inboard of the second lateral end edge. The absorbent product also comprises a topsheet connected with the backsheet, an absorbent article, the absorbent article having an outer perimeter defined by the first and second longitudinal lines of weakness and the first and second lateral lines of weakness, and a removable trim region.
US08777905B2	Line stabilizer for infants and small children and related methods A preferred system includes a clear medical dressing, a patch with a plurality of hooks, and a strap with a central aperture. A preferable method for I.V. catheter and tubing stabilization comprises the steps of: adhering the patch to the clear dressing; anchoring I.V. tubing to the strap; and contacting the strap to the hooks of the patch so that all of the hooks are covered by the strap and so that a hook and loop connection is established between the hooks of the patch and the material of the strap.
US08777903B2	Catheter patch applicator assembly In accordance with aspects of the present invention, an applicator assembly suitable for application of a catheter patch about an insertion site of a percutaneous device includes a body having a distal end, a proximal end, and laterally extending right and left side gripping members, a pull tab member attached toward the proximal end of the body, and a release tab connected to the pull tab member, wherein the release tab is positioned toward the distal end of the body so that a lower surface of the release tab abuts an upper surface of the body. The release tab may have a securing mechanism for securing a catheter patch to a lower surface of the body toward the distal end of the body. A method of applying a catheter patch about an insertion site of a percutaneous device using an applicator assembly is provided.
US08777902B2	Retractable cannula for surgical procedures A cannula assembly having a plurality of outwardly-biased flexible fins capable of inward movement such that the fins converge upon insertion of a trocar device. The fins include a slot formed therein, with a corresponding raised feature on the trocar shaft capable of engaging the slots. Inward movement of the trocar within the cannula lumen causes the fins to converge. An additional embodiment utilizes outwardly-biased flexible fins that lock together in a closed position, with corrugated features in the fin inner surface that contact the trocar shaft such that, upon insertion of the trocar, the fins unlock and splay outward.
US08777899B2	Injection apparatus An injection apparatus includes a counter wheel (54) that is incremented by the dose delivery mechanism each time the device is fired. The apparatus includes a final dose disabling mechanism that prevents further usage once the final dose has been delivered. An anti-tamper feature is provided to prevent inadvertent or premature initialisation of the apparatus.
US08777897B2	Fluid delivery systems and methods having wireless communication A fluid delivery system includes a disposable portion and a non-disposable portion configured to communicate with each other wirelessly. The disposable portion includes electrical elements such as one or more sensors configured to be in sensing proximity of fluid, a processor, a memory and a transceiver. The transceiver is configured to receive radio frequency energy from a transmitter located on the non-disposable portion and power the electrical elements on the disposable portion. The non-disposable portion wirelessly controls the disposable portion during a fluid delivery session by programming operational parameters and monitoring fluid delivery measurements over the wireless communication link.
US08777894B2	Infusion data communication system An infusion data communication system provides a communication link among a fluid container, an infusion pump, and a patient through which identification data may be communicated. Data devices are located at the fluid container and the patient and conduct low frequency RF energy at a low power level containing the data into the medical fluid. The data-laden RF energy propagates through the medication fluid to data readers at the infusion pump which receives the RF energy and reads the data. A comparison is made to verify that the right medication is mounted to the infusion pump for administration to the right patient. RFID devices may be used for the data devices and readers. Pump programming data may also be propagated to the infusion pump from the container RFID tag. The RFID device at the patient may be writable and may be used to store a patient MAR.
US08777883B2	Surgical cast venting device and material A surgical cast venting material comprises a waterproof, flexible substrate made of a plastics material and having first and second sides. The first side has a plurality of shallow, concave recesses distributed over the substrate and spaced-apart from one another while the second side has a plurality of protrusions distributed across the substrate. The substrate is perforated with a plurality of small holes distributed across its length and width. Also, a surgical cast venting device is disclosed for venting a bent region of a patient's limb. It has a flexible, central portion that can cover a major part of the bent region of the limb including opposite side surfaces and a front or rear surface. The device also has flexible connecting straps extending from two corners of the central portion.
US08777879B2	Method and apparatus for immobilizing subjects undergoing mechanical CPR The apparatus for immobilizing and treating a subject includes a suitable apparatus for performing mechanical CPR secured to an immobilization casing. The airtight flexible casing is secured to the apparatus for performing CPR, the casing having variable rigidity which varies as a function of the amount of air within the casing. Two or more slots through the casing permit passage of one or more elements of the CPR apparatus to pass through the casing. One or more incompressible windows may be included in the casing to optimize the performance of mechanical CPR by permitting one or more elements of the subject's skeleton to contact the CPR apparatus. A device for evacuating the air from within the flexible casing to control the rigidity of the casing is included within the CPR apparatus.
US08777877B2	Spine tool for measuring vertebral load and position of load A spine measurement system includes at least one spinal instrument and a remote system. The spinal instrument comprises a handle, a shaft, an accelerometer, a sensored head, and an electronic assembly. The sensored head includes one or more sensors that are operatively coupled to the electronic assembly. The sensored head can be inserted between vertebra and report vertebral conditions such as force, pressure, orientation and edge loading. A GUI of remote system can report position via the accelerometer to show spinal instrument relative to vertebral bodies as the instrument is placed in the inter-vertebral space. The system can report optimal prosthetic size and placement in view of the sensed load and location parameters including optional orientation, rotation and insertion angle along a determined insert trajectory.
US08777876B2	Methods and apparatus for determining fallopian tube occlusion Devices and methods for determining fallopian tube occlusion. The methods may include determining fallopian tube occlusions through a pressurization or volumetric determination.
US08777872B2	Diagnostic system for determining substance concentrations in liquid samples A diagnostic system has a diagnostic module with an integrated lancet system and a magazine module separate from the diagnostic module. The diagnostic device also has a connecting device that is used for tensioning the lancet system.
US08777868B2	Sensors for inductive plethysmographic monitoring applications and apparel using same This invention includes improved IP sensors that both have improved sensitivity, performance, and other properties and are multifunctional. The improved IP sensors have IP sensor conductors with waveforms having legs that are substantially parallel throughout the operating range of stretch. The multifunctional IP sensors include, in addition to IP sensors, accessory conductors, additional sensors, and other compatible modules. This inventions also includes embodiments of apparel incorporating the improved IP sensors. This apparel can range from band-like to shirt-like, and so forth, and include one or more IP sensors sensitive to expansions and contractions of underlying regions of a monitored subject.
US08777865B2	Blood pressure information measurement device A blood pressure information measurement device includes a servo control unit for performing a servo control of a pressure adjustment unit so that a value of an arterial volume signal matches a control target value and a fluctuation detection unit for detecting rapid fluctuation of the arterial volume signal at an initial stage during a period of the servo control. The fluctuation detection unit determines that the rapid fluctuation occurred when a control deviation representing a level of the arterial volume signal having the control target value as a reference becomes greater than or equal to a predetermined magnification of a reference deviation. The blood pressure information measurement device further includes an adjustment processing unit for adjusting a control amount of the pressure adjustment unit by the servo control unit so that an excessive response is not made when the rapid fluctuation is detected by the fluctuation detection unit.
US08777862B2	Apparatus and methods for non-invasively measuring a patient's arterial blood pressure Improved apparatus and methods for non-invasively assessing one or more hemodynamic parameters associated with the circulatory system of a living organism. In one aspect, the invention comprises an apparatus adapted to automatically and accurately place and maintain a sensor (e.g., tonometric pressure sensor) with respect to the anatomy of the subject. The apparatus comprised of a sensor device removably coupled to an actuator which is used to position the sensor during measurements. Methods for positioning the alignment apparatus and sensor, and operating the apparatus, are also disclosed.
US08777861B2	Three-dimensional ultrasonic scanner The present disclosure provides a precise performance three-dimensional ultrasound scanner that is lightweight for an easy hold by suggesting a novel constitution of a swing mechanism wherein an arrangement of the drive motor perpendicular to the swing axis requires a smaller capacity motor and eliminating a backlash. The swing mechanism includes: an arm holder connected to a rotational axis of the motor; an arm connected to the arm holder so that the arm swings within a certain angular range; a link, attached to the arm, for moving in unison with the arm; a shaft, connected to the link, for transmitting a rotary power of the arm to the transducer unit. The swing mechanism can be operated using the smaller capacity motor and eliminates the need for a pulley, gear or belt eliminating backlashes to promote implementation of lightweight precision three-dimensional ultrasound scanners.
US08777859B2	Method and apparatus for processing ultrasound image A method of processing an ultrasound image includes generating a plurality of two-dimensional (2D) ultrasound images from three-dimensional (3D) ultrasound volume data of an object to be diagnosed, generating a plurality of tissue edge images of an edge of at least one tissue component in the object to be diagnosed based on values of a plurality of pixels forming each of the 2D ultrasound images generated from the 3D ultrasound volume data, and generating a 2D ultrasound image from which a noise component has been removed by discriminating the edge of the at least one tissue component from a position of the noise component based on a difference between a similarity of the edge of the at least one tissue component in the tissue edge images and a similarity of the noise component in the tissue edge images.
US08777857B2	Single transducer with angular orientation for lesion feedback in ablation catheter An ablation catheter comprises: an elongated catheter body extending along a longitudinal axis; at least one ablation element disposed in a distal portion which is adjacent the distal end of the catheter body to ablate a targeted tissue region outside the catheter body; a single pulse-echo ultrasonic transducer disposed in the distal portion and arranged to emit and receive an acoustic beam along a centroid in a beam direction, at a transducer angle of about 30-60 degrees relative to a distal direction of the longitudinal axis at a location of intersection between the longitudinal axis and the beam direction of the centroid of the acoustic beam; and a mechanism to manipulate the distal portion in movement including rotation of at least the distal portion around the longitudinal axis. The single ultrasonic transducer emits and receives acoustic pulses to provide lesion information in the targeted tissue region being ablated.
US08777856B2	Diagnostic system and method for obtaining an ultrasound image frame An ultrasound diagnostic system is provided that includes an ultrasound imaging device having an ultrasound probe that is configured to provide an ultrasound image of the heart during an ultrasound imaging session. The diagnostic system also includes a user interface including an operator display that is configured to concurrently display a reference image frame and the ultrasound image of the ultrasound imaging session. The user interface is configured to receive operator inputs to adjust a view of the heart in the ultrasound image and acquire a set of image frames of the heart. The diagnostic system also includes a cardiac analyzer that is configured to automatically identify a measurement frame from the set of image frames. The measurement frame includes the heart at a designated orientation and at a designated cardiac condition.
US08777850B2	Heart failure patient management using an implantable monitoring system An implantable medical device system and method provide physiological variable monitoring for use in patient management. A target value for a physiological variable and formulations for computing metrics of the physiological variable are stored. Values of the physiological variable are determined from a sensed physiological signal and are used to compute a selected metric. The metric is compared to the stored target value.
US08777844B1	Modifiable endoscope device An apparatus including an outer articulated tube member, the outer articulated tube member having a first tubular section and a second tubular section. The apparatus further including an inner articulated tube member positioned within the outer articulated tube member, the inner articulated tube member having a first tubular section and a second tubular section. The first tubular section and the second tubular section of at least one of the outer articulated tube member and the inner articulated tube member are movable with respect to one another in a first configuration and fixed with respect to one another in a second configuration.
US08777840B2	Endoscopic tube delivery system An apparatus is disclosed. In some embodiments, the apparatus comprises an endoscope comprising a first distal end portion, and a tube comprising a second distal end portion, wherein the endoscope and the tube are in a side-by-side relationship and are coupled at distal end portions of the endoscope and the tube using a single coupling device.
US08777838B2	Implantable support with dilator attached to arm A pelvic organ prolapse treatment device includes an implantable support configured to treat a prolapsed area of a patient such as urethrocele prolapse, cystocele prolapse, vault prolapse, uterine prolapse, enterocele prolapse, or rectocele prolapse. The support includes a body portion and an arm connected to the body portion, a knot connecting a suture to an end portion of the arm, and a tubular dilator disposed over and permanently connected to the knot. The tubular dilator has an aspect ratio of greater than 7.
US08777836B2	Pelvic health implants and methods Surgical articles, implants and components suitable for female pelvic health procedures are described.
US08777831B2	Transcranial magnetic stimulation induction coil device and method of manufacture A transcranial magnetic stimulation induction coil device (“TMS coil device”) is manufactured to contain coil windings of a predetermined size and shape and fixedly positioned at a predetermined location within and orientation in relation to a casing of the TMS coil device. In one embodiment, the coil windings are encased in a casting at a predetermined location within and orientation in relation to the casting, and the casting is fixedly positioned at a predetermined location within and orientation in relation to the casing. The size and shape of the coil windings and the casing within, and the location and orientation of the coil windings in relation to each other and the casing of, the TMS coil device are known with a high level of precision, such that navigated brain stimulation can be performed with the TMS coil device with a high degree of accuracy. In another embodiment, the TMS coil device defines a space interposed between the coil windings and the casing and containing a gas which absorbs heat energy generated at the coil windings, thereby reducing the rate of transfer of heat energy from the coil windings to the casing during operation of the TMS coil device.
US08777830B2	Paper folding device for three-folding sheet of paper In a paper folding device, a first driving unit for forming a first folding line on the paper moves a first folding plate member to the paper fed to a first feeding position until load on the first folding plate member reaches a prescribed value or higher. A time period from the start of driving of the first folding unit by the first driving unit to the start of driving of a second folding unit by a second driving unit is determined based on characteristic of paper.
US08777825B1	Methods for designing boxes and other types of containers Methods for designing and manufacturing containers comprise determining a desired overall column data for the container; adapting the column data to have overlapping ends; selecting desired row data; selecting a desired perimeter geometry for a lid and floor of the container; adapting the row data, relative to column data, to yield the desired lid and floor perimeter geometries; and generating a folded geometry for the container.
US08777824B2	Sheet folding device, image forming apparatus, and sheet folding method A sheet folding device for performing single-sheet folding and multi-sheet folding with a single feed path, the device including: a conveying unit that conveys a sheet; a restraining unit that stops a leading edge of the sheet; a pair of folding rollers that fold the sheet; and a guiding member that guides a bend of the sheet to a nip between the pair of folding rollers, wherein the guiding member is positioned at different sheet-guiding positions for single-sheet folding and multi-sheet folding.
US08777823B2	Automatic tool changer Disclosed in an automatic tool changer in which the tool changing time can be shortened by increasing overlapping operations of the turning operation and the axial advancing/retracting operation of a replacement arm. An arm driver (32) is so constituted that the driver performs overlapping operations such that at least a part of the operation for turning a replacement arm (23) by 180° and the operation for advancing/retracting the replacement arm in the axial direction in order to insert or withdraw a tool (37) are performed simultaneously and in parallelism with each other. When the replacement arm (23) is advanced/retracted in the axial direction in order to insert or withdraw a tool, the replacement arm (23) is turned by a predetermined distance in a direction reverse to the direction (so called “normal direction”) for turning the arm by 180° in parallelism with the advancing/retracting operation, and thereafter, the replacement arm (23) is turned in the normal direction.
US08777819B1	Boxing training system A simulated sparring partner apparatus and method for the training and exercising of a boxer, including a variable path and height track, a target article such as a punching bag or boxing pear suspended from the track, one or more drives for moving the target article along the track, and a control apparatus for controlling the speed and direction of movement of the carriage along the track. The drive may move the punching bag at various speeds and in either direction, either on its own, or as a result of the boxer's actions. Also, the drive may be programmable such that the carriage follows a predetermined path at predetermined speeds.
US08777817B2	Convertible push and pull exercise machine A convertible push and pull exercise machine capable of providing a user with a total body workout using resistance in two lines of motion. The exercise machine can include a base, an adjustable secured seat positioned on the base, and an arm assembly including opposed first and second arm members each having a first end and a second end. The first end of each of the opposed first and second arm members can pivotally be attached to the base. Additionally, the exercise machine can include a resistance arrangement capable of providing a resistance to each of the opposed first and second arm members in at least two lines of motion.
US08777812B2	Control apparatus and control method for vehicular automatic transmission In a downshift of an automatic transmission in a state where an accelerator pedal is depressed, one of a clutch-to-clutch shift in which the shift is carried out by gradually reducing an engagement pressure of a clutch or a brake to be disengaged in the shift and a rotation synchronization shift in which the shift is carried out by reducing the engagement pressure of the clutch or the brake more quickly than in the clutch-to-clutch shift is selected based on an output shaft torque of the automatic transmission, a region where the rotation synchronization shift is selected is lower in output shaft torque than a region where the clutch-to-clutch shift is selected, and hence it is possible to appropriately selectively execute a shift placing emphasis on a shock and a shift placing emphasis on a shift speed in accordance with the output shaft torque.
US08777810B2	Method for controlling an automatic transmission of a motor vehicle after a cold start and transmission system A method is provided for controlling an automatic transmission of a motor vehicle, in which the engine speed is limited after a cold start and a normal shift point is used for shifting to the next higher gear of the automatic transmission in the case of an average operating temperature of an engine, before the average operating temperature is reached, a cold shift point being used for shifting to the next higher gear of the automatic transmission, in the case of which upshifting is performed at a lower vehicle velocity than in the case of the normal shift point. Upshifting into the next higher gear of the automatic transmission can be made easier, since upshifting can already be performed at lower vehicle velocities and therefore lower engine speeds in the cold start phase.
US08777804B2	Bicycle control apparatus A bicycle control apparatus is configured to control a bicycle having a transmission and a drive assistance electric motor that drives a wheel. The bicycle control apparatus includes a pedaling force detector and a controller. The pedaling force detector detects a pedaling force. The controller includes a control section that controls the drive assistance electric motor according to a pedaling force detected by the pedaling force detector. The control section increases a ratio of an output of the drive assistance electric motor with respect to the pedaling force upon completion of a downshift of the transmission, and subsequently decreasing the ratio of the output of the drive assistance electric motor with respect to the pedaling force.
US08777803B2	Method of prioritizing output torque and off-going clutch torque constraints during a torque phase A system for a vehicle includes a constraint module that generates a plurality of constraints. An output torque module generates a commanded output torque based on a torque request and the plurality of constraints. A split torque module determines a first torque and a second torque to be applied to a transmission of the vehicle based on the plurality of constraints and the commanded output torque. A first one of the plurality of constraints corresponding to a first clutch is adjusted from a first range of values to a second range of values that is different from the first range of values in response to a command to offload the first clutch.
US08777802B2	Gear system and method for using same A planet pin, a planetary gear system, and a method for balancing a load on a planetary gear system between respective planet gears. The planet pin includes a planet pin body having a flexure portion between a pair of ends. The flexure portion may be a planet pin body having grooves on opposing sides. The flexure portion may be a pair of pin bodies interference fit into annuluses of a centrally located barrel. The flexure portion may be a pair of pin arms extending from a centrally located ball joint.
US08777801B2	Planetary gear train and corresponding production method Described herein is a planetary gear train, comprising: a sun gear that can turn about an axis and comprises a plurality of first teeth; a fixed crown wheel comprising a plurality of second teeth; and two planetary gears, each comprising a plurality of third teeth, the planetary gears each meshing with the crown wheel and the sun gear and able to turn about second axes, which are in turn able to turn about the first axis; at least two third teeth simultaneously mesh with second teeth and further two third teeth simultaneously mesh with first teeth; the third teeth comprise a first and a second side, which have, respectively, a first and a second pressure angle different from one another; and the number of the third teeth is different from the absolute value of the semidifference between the number of the first teeth and of the second teeth.
US08777800B2	Mechanical assembly provided with means for monitoring for a structural anomaly, a gearbox provided with such a mechanical assembly, and a method of monitoring for a structural anomaly The present invention relates to a mechanical assembly (10) provided with a sun gear (30) and a plurality of planet gears (50) co-operating with said sun gear (30). Each planet gear (50) includes a vibration sensor (61) forming part of structural anomaly monitoring means, said monitoring means being provided with a control member (63) that communicates with each vibration sensor (61) in order to receive a measurement signal coming from each vibration sensor (61) in order to enable anomaly monitoring to be performed.
US08777796B2	Transmission and differential gearing as well as motor and gearing unit A transmission and differential gearing includes a transmission section and a differential section. The transmission section has an input stage and a load stage. The sun gear of the input stage is connected or coupleable to an input shaft. The ring gear of the bad stage is fixed relative to the housing. The sun gear of the bad stage is connected to the carrier of the input stage. The carrier of the load stage is connected to the ring gear of the input stage. The differential section is a spur gear differential configured as a planetary gear set. The ring gear of the planetary gear set is connected to the carrier of the load stage. The carrier of the planetary gear set and the sun gear of the planetary gear set are connected to a respective one of two output shafts. A motor and gearing unit is also provided.
US08777795B2	Device to reverse direction of a unidirectional powered drive A device is provided that attaches to a hub of a drive mechanism that utilizes a flat plate, shuttle enabled, engagement/disengagement mechanism to sequentially disengage a forward drive power and then engage a reverse drive power assembly which results in a reverse output of power to the drive mechanism. In a particular application, a device is provided that attaches to the hub of a motorcycle wheel that enables the normal forward drive mechanism to provide reverse power without changing the actual direction of the drive sprocket. An important aspect of the device of the present invention is that the reverse gear package when not in use is completely idle and has absolutely no effect on the forward drive components when not in use.
US08777794B2	Geared motor A geared motor including a case body, a case cover cooperating with the case body to form a case, each of the case body and the case cover including at least three mount holes into which bolts are inserted to couple the case to a member to which the geared motor is mounted, the mount holes of the case body and the mount holes of the case cover being formed around cylindrical bores of the case body and the case cover in axial alignment with each other, and generally cylindrical collars inserted into and extending over the mount holes of the case body and the mount holes of the case cover which are axially aligned with each other.
US08777790B2	Continuously variable transmission device having power split A continuously variable transmission device (1) has a power split which takes place in the area of a sum planetary transmission (9). A first shaft (8) of the sum planetary transmission (9) can be brought into operational connection with a drive engine or machine (3). A second shaft (12) of the sum planetary transmission (9) can be connected, for continuous variation of the gear ratio, with an electric machine (36) which itself can be coupled with an electric energy source (38).
US08777777B2	Reinforced faces of club heads and related methods Some embodiments include a reinforced face of a club head. Other embodiments for related reinforced faces of club heads and related methods are also disclosed.
US08777775B2	Whole mallet putter head The mallet putter head in this present invention is comprised of a body cast in 304 stainless steel having a smooth putting face with a 3 degree loft and also balancing weights starting at the putter face and continuing to the rear curve of the putter head giving a proper look, weight and feel. There are three painted grooves perpendicular to the putter face to assist the golfer in aligning the putter to the intended line of the putt. A hole just smaller than a golf ball is also provided that will assist the golfer in aligning the putt. The sole of the putter is curved to permit easy movement of the putter head in the pendulum swing and also in or out in front of the body. The rear end of the putter allows the golfer to pick up a golf ball, if desired.
US08777774B1	Adjustable iron-type golf club head The present invention discloses an iron-type golf club head having features that permit adjustment to the principal moment of inertia angle, the center of gravity location, turf interaction, loft, and overall club forgiveness. In particular, the golf club head includes a rear cavity sized to receive a weight cartridge composed of one or more materials, the adjustment of which changes one or more of the mass properties of the golf club head and also changes the interaction of the golf club head with turf during play. The weight cartridge may comprise one or more high density materials, and may be located in or proximate the sole.
US08777771B2	Interchangeable shaft system A golf club incorporating an interchangeable shaft system includes a shaft, a shaft sleeve, a club head. The shaft sleeve is coupled to an end of the shaft and is received in a hosel included in the club head. The shaft sleeve is removably coupled to the club head. Hosel and shaft sleeve alignment features provide discreet orientations between the shaft and club head.
US08777768B2	Golf flagstick with capped ferrule A golf flagstick is provided with a metal ferrule having a cap. The cap is softer than the metal body of the ferrule. The cap reduces wear and tear on the golf cup into which it is placed. The cap may be applied to the metal ferrule by over molding.
US08777765B2	System and method for providing water park beach visual effects Present embodiments are directed to features for maintaining or providing a beach area that is adjacent a water feature and that includes beach surface material disposed in one or more containment structures such that a multi-colored or illuminated beach surface is provided. Present embodiments may include multiple containment structures arrayed in an area adjacent a water feature, wherein each containment structure holds beach surface material of a different color. Further, present embodiments may include creating and/or distributing iridescent and/or phosphorescent beach surface material in one or more containment structures that define the beach area. Additionally, present embodiments may include adjustable or attachable barrier extensions to facilitate maintenance. Further, present embodiments may include transparent or translucent beach surface material disposed in one or more containment structures and a lighting system under the beach surface materials.
US08777764B2	Motion apparatus for use with infant carrier A motion apparatus for use in combination with a standard infant carrier, such as a car seat. The motion apparatus comprises a support structure and a frame for receiving the transportable base of an infant car seat, and a drive assembly, which, when activated causes motion of the infant carrier. Methods and devices of the invention are useful to soothe an infant.
US08777763B2	Artificial surface suitable for making horse tracks An artificial surface suitable for making horse tracks includes fine siliceous sand with median granulometry less than 500 μm and a silica content higher than 60 % wt., and a proportion by weight ranging from 3 to 5% of very fine hollow synthetic fibers of polyester or polypropylene.
US08777759B2	Universal joint and propeller shaft In a universal joint, a cross shaft member includes four shaft parts forming a cross-shape. Each of four bearing cups corresponding respectively to the shaft parts has a hollow-cylindrical shape having a bottom and is rotatably mounted to the corresponding shaft part through a roller disposed between an inner peripheral surface of the each bearing cup and an outer peripheral surface of the corresponding shaft part. Each bearing cup includes an inner bottom surface in sliding contact with a distal end surface of the corresponding shaft part, wherein the sliding contact is in an annular region encompassing a central axis of the corresponding shaft part. The distal end surface of each shaft part is formed with an annular groove encompassing the central axis of the first shaft part for storing oil.
US08777757B2	Gaming machine having enhanced emotive lighting feature A gaming machine includes a light source concealed within a cabinet frame, a light pipe, and a contoured reflective surface. The light pipe has a distal end adjacent to the light source and a proximal end along the cabinet frame and directly viewable from the player position. The light pipe directs the initial light from the distal end to the proximal end such that (a) some initial light exits the proximal end as direct light viewable from the player position and (b) some initial light exits a pipe section, extending between the distal end and the proximal end, as washed light. The contoured reflective surface is adjacent to the proximal end along the cabinet frame, and is configured to receive the washed light from the pipe section and to reflect at least some of the washed light as indirect light viewable from the player position.
US08777756B2	Server device, non-transitory server device-readable storage medium, and game system A server device connected to a first player terminal used by a first player and a second player terminal used by a second player to communicate with each other, including: a storage unit that stores player information in which each of items owned by players is associated with each of the players; a reception unit that receives, from the first player terminal, an exchange request to exchange a first item owned by the first player for a second item different from the first item, and receives, from the second player terminal after the exchange request, an acquisition request that the second player acquire the first item in an exchange source from the first player; a judging unit that judges whether or not the second player owns the second item based on the player information when the reception unit receives the acquisition request; and an item exchange processing unit.
US08777755B2	Video games with valuation of a game environment According to an embodiment, a video game permits valuation of a game environment and/or sharing value in the game. For example, players can buy and sell whole or fractional portions of the revenue sources derived from a particular game environment. The ownership may be represented as debt, stock or as some other allocations mechanism.
US08777753B2	Controlling interactivity for gaming and social-communication applications A wagering game system and its operations are described herein. In embodiments, the operations can include determining a selection of a selectable object in a first area of a gaming display that is under control of a first application module associated with a wagering game session. The first application module can be for a social communication application or can provide social communication functionality. The operations can further include determining a selection purpose for the selection, determining transference instructions for an item representation of the selectable object, and transferring the item representation to a second area of the gaming display that is under control of a second application module. The second application module can be for a wagering game application or can provide wagering game functionality. The operations can further include performing a function associated with the second application module according to the selection purpose.
US08777752B2	Geogame for mobile device A geogame utilizes wireless devices to track the movements of the players. As players move, virtual tails are generated behind each player, and their locations are determined and geocast, via a wireless geographic broadcast protocol, to all players of the geogame. Each player observes all players movements and tail locations on his/her wireless device. Players can draw sketches utilizing their respective virtual tails and/or players can traverse courses which involve various types of terrain. Players can try to avoid virtual obstacles that can be generated within the game. Players can be provided weapons to shoot through boundaries and tails.
US08777750B2	System gaming A system provides a player tracking system and system gaming apparatus for playing non-base games by funding the credit side of a gaming cycle. The system further includes at least one gaming device having a base game. The player tracking system and system gaming apparatus includes a player tracking user interface. The player tracking user interface provides a player with an opportunity to select and play a non-base game that may be promotional-funded or player-funded.
US08777748B2	Electronic gaming device with feedback Systems, methods, and apparatus for communicating information regarding movement of a gaming device are presented herein. A gaming device can include at least one sensor configured to measure information associated with at least one of a position of the gaming device or an attitude of the gaming device. Further, a communications interface component can be configured to communicate the information to a controller. A method can detect, via sensors of a handheld gaming device, information related to a movement of the handheld gaming device; and transfer the information to a controller communicatively coupled to the handheld gaming device. A system can include means for receiving information related to a position of a gaming device or an attitude of the gaming device, and means for predicting an anticipated position of the gaming device based on the means for receiving the information.
US08777743B2	System and method for facilitating interaction with a virtual space via a touch sensitive surface This disclosure relates to a system and method for facilitating interaction with a virtual space via a touch sensitive surface. The user may interact with the virtual space via a touch sensitive surface in a wireless client device. The user may interact with the virtual space by providing control inputs to the touch sensitive surface. The control inputs may be reflected in one or more views of the virtual space. In some implementations, the system may be configured such that the one or more views of the virtual space include one or more views of a shooter game. The system may be configured such that the user may interact with the game primarily with fingers from one hand via the touch sensitive surface. The user may enter various command inputs into the touch sensitive surface that correspond to actions in the virtual space presented to the user.
US08777738B2	System and method for an extensible boot image for electronic gaming machines Disclosed are electronic gaming machines, methods and systems for gaming device configuration and gaming device software distribution. An electronic gaming machine is configured to detect whether a primary portable storage device is in communication with the electronic gaming machine. The primary portable storage device may be configured to store a boot image. The boot image may include a boot code, an operating system, and a framework application. The framework application may be configured to search and execute a pluggable module according to instructions provided by the pluggable module. The framework application may also include instructions configured to determine whether at least one of the one or more pluggable modules includes a signature and execute the at least one pluggable module when it is determined that the at least one pluggable module includes the signature.
US08777737B2	Method and apparatus for integrating remotely-hosted and locally rendered content on a gaming device A gaming system including a number of host devices each coupled to one or more gaming machines, wherein content provided by the host device is output on the gaming machine. To output the content provided by the remote host, a host-controlled process that is authenticated by the gaming machine and executed in a secure memory location such that it is isolated from other processes executing on the gaming machine may be utilized. The host-controlled processes may be decoupled from the process used to execute the game of chance played on the gaming machine such that the content output by the host-controlled process doesn't alter the play of game of chance.
US08777736B2	Self configuring progressive jackpot award system A progressive controller includes a plurality of progressive jackpot award game configuration options. A subset of the progressive jackpot award game configuration options correspond to the subset of EGM configuration options related to participating in the progressive jackpot award game. The progressive controller automatically sends data representing the subset of progressive jackpot award game configuration options to the plurality of EGMs. The EGMs participate in the progressive jackpot award game in accordance with the EGM progressive jackpot award game configuration options.
US08777730B2	Game betting device The present application provides a game betting device, wherein each of antennas 21 belongs both two major groups, the major groups are further classified into a plurality of small groups, two major groups have different classifications of the small groups from each other, and at least one column or at least one row in the alignment of the betting regions includes a plurality of small groups included in an identical major group in a single column or row. The game betting device according to the present application makes it possible to read out a chip on a betting board in a short time.
US08777727B2	Turbo card table game with RFID card identifier An improved table game system includes a first shuffling machine for randomly selecting a first card from among a first defined set of cards. The system also includes a second shuffling machine for randomly selecting a second card from among a second defined set of cards. A first card reader is associated with the first shuffling machine for communicating with the selected card to obtain relevant information thereabout. A second card reader is associated with the second shuffling machine for communicating with the selected card to obtain information thereabout. The system includes a first display in communication with the first card reader to display the obtained information about the first card. The system also includes a second display in communication with the second card reader to display the obtained information about the second card. A computer is in communication with the first card reader to process the obtained information and communicate it to the first display. The computer is also in communication with the second card reader to process the obtained information and communicate it to the second display. The computer also resolves any wagers associated with the outcome of the first game and the second game.
US08777722B2	Gaming system, gaming device and method providing a group of timed games The gaming system, gaming device and gaming method provides a plurality of sequential player events in which the player must take an action in a designated period of time and where the player has less time to take the action in each subsequent event.
US08777721B2	Slot machine using marker that adds bonus trigger functionality to reel symbols A gaming environment is described. If a predetermined number or more marks are displayed, one of progressive chance games will be executed. Also, the progressive chance game to be executed is determined based on the displayed mark. If a progressive bonus is realized in the progressive chance game, jackpot amount corresponding to the progressive bonus will be provided.
US08777719B2	Gaming device and method of conducting a game with a changeable bonus value feature A bonus device and method are set forth for gaming machines. The bonus device is configured as a two dimensional display or three dimensional object, such as a sphere, box, or football shape, which can be controlled to rotate, spin or move to display a bonus. The bonus device is embedded with display technology that allows the bonus amounts, to change upon certain conditions in the base game such as an increased number of credits wagered, combinations achieved in the base game, or other random occurrences.
US08777717B2	Number-based game system and method wherein players vote to determine the selection of game numbers from a plurality of randomly selected game numbers and/or symbols A system and method of use wherein players are allowed to vote on a game number from multiple game numbers wherein the game number receiving the most votes is selected as a next game number. Games involving multiple player, including bingo and lottery-style games, may benefit from the disclosed system and method. Given a large set of players and over the course of the game, the voting scheme does not impact the random nature of the game outcome. Advantageously, and despite the continued randomness of game outcomes, players tend to believe that the voting scheme impacts the game outcome by skewing the game outcome in the player's favor. Accordingly, the interactive nature of the game is attractive to players especially new and young players having grown up with interactive video games and also provides more experienced players with a new spin on old games.
US08777716B2	Roulette side wagering systems and methods Systems, methods and apparatus for providing and conducting a side or secondary wagering game with the underlying game of Roulette, which includes receiving a wager relating to the secondary wagering game, wherein the wager is resolvable after a preset amount of random Roulette outcomes have been obtained, generating the preset amount of random Roulette outcomes, storing each random Roulette game outcome of the preset amount, comparing the stored outcomes with preset criteria relating to the appearance of a pattern of indicia associated with Roulette outcomes, providing a payout corresponding to the wager if the preset criteria is satisfied and collecting the wager if the preset criteria is not satisfied.
US08777714B2	Systems and methods of electronic gaming During operation of a gaming machine, information about future game outcomes is provided to player-users. A processor of the machine determines outcome(s) of the one or more selected games; stores the outcome(s) on non-transient storage media of the machine; and relays information, through an output device of the machine, about at least one of said outcome(s), before one or more selected games has been played.
US08777711B2	Gaming device and method of use A gaming apparatus having a display area with a prize object holder that releasably holds a plurality of prize objects in an individually controlled manner; a rotatable display element having a cavity to receive at least one of the prize objects; and a positioning mechanism which transfers a selected prize object from the prize object holder to the rotatable display element, is disclosed. A controller causes the positioning mechanism to transfer the selected prize object from the prize object holder to the rotatable display element. In one embodiment, the cavity of the rotatable display element may include a plurality of barrier elements which at least partially impede movement of a selected prize object disposed within the rotatable display element. A method of playing a game using the aforementioned apparatus is also disclosed.
US08777708B2	Targeting control in a simulated environment Targeting control may be facilitated in a simulated environment. In an example embodiment, a method includes acts of monitoring, generating, moving, and firing. A button input and a directional input are monitored. If a press and hold of the button input is detected, a fine aiming mode is generated. If movement of the directional input is detected during the fine aiming mode, a location of a target indicator is moved responsive to the detected movement. When a release of the button input is detected, a ranged weapon is fired based on the location of the target indicator.
US08777703B1	Hide puller A hide puller for skinning an animal with telescoping upright support member that is retractable for storage. The puller mounts on a truck hitch receiver. A pulley system with movable mounting bracket attached on an upper end of the support member and wings provided on a lower end of the upright support member. Button and loop fasteners are employed for securing the animal's hide to one end of the support member via either the mounting bracket or the wings and means for securing the animal's carcass to the opposite end of the upright support member via either the wings or the mounting bracket. A cable is attached to the pulley system and attached to means for retracting and releasing the cable to raise and lower the mounting bracket relative to the wings to remove hide from the carcass. A hunter's gambrel may substitute for the movable mounting bracket.
US08777702B2	Stuffing tube mounting assembly and follower A stuffing tube mounting assembly and follower includes an elongated member with a tapered portion at one end that fits within a tapered end of a stuffing horn. The stuffing horn is inserted through a bore of a collar. The bore of the collar has a tapered section that engages the tapered end of the horn when the collar is attached to the member. The follower has a housing having a bore. An opening in a sidewall of the housing is in communication with the bore. Disposed within the bore is a wiper. A cap having a central opening in an end wall is attached to the housing.
US08777701B2	Shrimp peeling machine and method and application A shrimp peeling machine (1) is provided with a closed chain (3) consisting of a number of joints (14,15), which contain cylindrical rollers (4, 5, 6). The cylindrical rollers' longitudinal axis is displaced 90 degrees in relation to the shrimp peeling process direction (13). The rollers can be turned by activation of toothed wheel (7), the chain operated by at least one toothed wheel (12), which is connected to a motor device (10,11). The rollers' mutual placement can be adjusted using position regulation guys (17). It is hereby achieved that the shrimp peeling machine, contrary to the hitherto known technique, can be mounted and function in shrimp trawlers. With the invention, in a continuous process, shrimp can be landed in a shrimp trawler and be boiled, peeled and packaged on the vessel and thus be ready for sale to the consumers, as soon as the trawler reaches harbour.
US08777698B2	Hand tool support and dust shroud An abrading tool has a grinding disc mounted to the shaft of a motor, and a dust shroud which has a depending flange which extends over and about a periphery of the grinding disc, the dust shroud having a flattened segment, and a peripheral flexible and adjustable skirt which attaches to and extends beyond the depending flange.
US08777696B2	Processing method for concave-convex gear A relative movement trajectory of each convex tooth pin of a mating gear with respect to a concave-convex gear at the time when torque is transmitted between the mating gear and the concave-convex gear (nutation gear) may be expressed by a first linear axis, a second linear axis, a third linear axis, a fourth rotation axis, a fifth rotation axis and a sixth indexing axis. Then, a relative movement trajectory of each convex tooth pin of the mating gear, expressed by the first linear axis, the second linear axis, the third linear axis, the fifth rotation axis and the sixth indexing axis in the case where the fourth rotation axis is brought into coincidence with the sixth indexing axis, is calculated, and at least one of a disc-shaped workpiece and a working tool is moved on the basis of the calculated relative movement trajectory.
US08777695B2	Ultrasonic cleaning apparatus, ultrasonic cleaning method, and storage medium storing computer program for executing ultrasonic cleaning method An ultrasonic cleaning apparatus according to the present invention comprises a plurality of cleaning tanks configured to store a cleaning liquid, an object-to-be-processed holder capable of being inserted into each cleaning tank, the object-to-be-processed holder being configured to hold an object to be processed and to immerse the object to be processed into the cleaning liquid, a vibrator disposed on each cleaning tank, a single ultrasonic oscillator configured to make each vibrator ultrasonically vibrate, an output switch interposed between the ultrasonic oscillator and the vibrator of each respective cleaning tank, the output switch being configured to switch the vibrator that is connected to the ultrasonic oscillator, and a control device configured to control the ultrasonic oscillator and the output switch, wherein the control device controls the ultrasonic oscillator and the output switch such that a timing at which the vibrator of one of the cleaning tanks is made to ultrasonically vibrate, and a timing at which the vibrator of another cleaning tank is made to ultrasonically vibrate are not overlapped with each other.
US08777693B2	Compression support bra A bra for compression stabilizing the breast mass against motion relative to the torso includes a closed cell foam layer having a front, back, sides, and shoulder straps in a pattern to approximately match the contours of a female user's torso. A first fabric layer adjacent to the inner surface of the cell foam layer adjacent to the user's skin, substantially matching the pattern of the closed cell foam fabric layer, provides moisture wicking and comfort. A portion of the closed cell foam fabric layer extends below the breast line and encircles the torso to add motion stabilizing support to the breasts.
US08777692B2	Brassiere The claimed invention is directed to brassieres that offer extra support for large women. The brassieres include an inner bra band and an outer bra band.
US08777689B1	Environmentally-responsive transforming vehicles A transforming toy vehicle, includes a chassis; a motive system coupled to the chassis translating a location of the chassis over a surface, the motive system including a free drive mode and an inhibited drive mode wherein the mode of the motive system establishes a state for a mode control latch, the mode control latch including a latched state and a not latched state; a housing, coupled to the chassis and responsive to the state of the mode control latch, the housing having an untransformed mode and a transformed mode, the housing transitioning from the untransformed mode to the transformed mode when the state of the mode control latch changes from the latched state to the unlatched state; and a detector, coupled to the chassis the motive system changing from the free drive mode to the inhibited drive mode when the carriage overlies the particular environmental feature wherein the housing transitions to the transformed mode.
US08777685B2	Apparatus and method for assembling backlight module The present invention provides an apparatus for assembling a backlight module. The backlight module comprises a first surface, a second surface and side surfaces located between the first surface and the second surface, and the backlight module includes screwing holes. The apparatus comprises: a pallet including at least one opening; a support pillar disposed through the opening; and a retractable control device configured to control the at least one support pillar to protrude with respect to the pallet for supporting the second surface of the backlight module when screwing screws on the first surface and the side surfaces, wherein, when the backlight module is flipped over for screwing on the second surface, the retractable control device is configured to control the at least one support pillar to retract with respect to the pallet. This invention further provides a method for assembling the backlight module.
US08777683B2	Self-cleansing retractable handle assembly for water craft A concealably retractable handle is ensconced into the core or hull of a recreational or utilitarian floatation structure such as a canoe, kayak, surfboard, sailboard, paddle board or the like, where it lies below the outer surface without interfering with normal use of the structure. The handle can be conveniently extracted and secured in an operational position to facilitate handling and carrying the structure or securing it the a vehicle. The housing of the handle is bonded into the body of the floatation device through a padding sleeve which absorbs stress forces that could damage the solidity of the bond and the integrity of the whole structure. During handle retraction structures encourage agitation of water located inside the housing to facilitate water and debris evacuation.
US08777680B2	Snowmobile conversion kit for amphibious service A kit for conversion of a snowmobile for use as a personal watercraft by replacement of the skis with steerable flotation ‘device’ and addition of outrigger flotation ‘device’ to suspend the track in the water while providing flotation to the chassis, along with the flotation provided by the steerable flotation ‘device’. The kit installs to the snowmobile without removing the track or engine drive, and without interference with operator control systems. Wheels may be included in keels of some hulls to allow for ease of access and egress from water to land.
US08777676B1	Universal mount contact block with reversible protected wiring terminals A reconfigurable contact block usable for at least DIN rail and panel mount applications. The contact block's wiring compartments have reversible wiring terminals and reversible, interchangeable protective covers. Lateral wiring ports in each cover guide inserted wires to the covered terminal, and an axially facing cover opening provides tool access to the terminal.
US08777675B2	Vertical contact for shielded sockets A conductive contact includes a hollow cylinder, a spring strip and a contact head.
US08777673B2	Socket and plug for high-speed connector A socket and a plug for a high-speed connector configured to implement communication and transmission of multiple channels of high-speed signals are disclosed. The socket according to an embodiment of the present invention includes: a shell and pins; the shell has an opening configured to accommodate a plug for the high-speed connector; the pins include upper-layer pins and lower-layer pins; the upper-layer pins are set at one side of an inner wall of the opening, the lower-layer pins are set at the other side of the inner wall of the opening corresponding to positions of the upper-layer pins, the upper-layer pins are arranged in at least two rows of pin groups, and the at least two rows of pin groups are distributed in a staggered manner along a length direction of the pins.
US08777667B2	Electrical connector with shell interferentially engaged with portion of the connector An electrical connector (1) is adapted for mounting to a circuit substrate having a metallic shell (2) assembled onto an insulated housing (3). The metallic shell (2) has a base portion with two side-walls (23) and a pair of arms (24) extending from the side-walls (23). Some interferential tabs (243) are introverted on both of the arms (24) and corresponding slots (311) are formed on the insulated housing (3). When assembling, the interferential tabs (243) are engaged with corresponding slots (311) to firmly fit the metallic shell (2) and insulated housing (3) together.
US08777660B2	Electric connector with a cable clamping portion An electric connector comprises a connector body and a plurality of contact elements mounted within the connector body and adapted to be coupled with mating contact elements at the front end of the connector body. The contact elements are connected to respective wires of an electric cable provided with a sheath. The electric cable is clamped within the connector body by means of a cable clamping tubular portion, having clamping longitudinal tabs. A wedge-like locking bush having a conical inner surface is mounted above the longitudinal tabs of the clamping tubular portion. A locking ring-nut is tightened on a threaded portion of the rear end of the connector body so as to clamp the cable.
US08777655B2	Wire power cord retainer An apparatus for retaining a plug in an outlet is provided. The apparatus includes a body and a pair of arms extending from opposite sides of the body. The body includes a retaining tab for retaining the plug in the outlet and a pair of locking tabs extending from opposite sides of the retaining tab for locking the retaining tab to the plug. Additionally, or in the alternative, each of the arms includes a safety loop for preventing the arms from being electrically connected to the outlet.
US08777654B2	Electrical engagement apparatus, system and method A device for securing a first electrical connector to a second electrical connector, comprising a bracket body; and at least one engaging portion extending from the bracket body to the second electrical connector and coupling to a portion of the second electrical connector. Also provided is a method of securing one electrical connector to another electrical connector and an interconnect system comprising a first connector, a second connector, a third connector, and an engaging device.
US08777652B2	Fixture with electrical connections and systems for separable mechanical attachment The fixture intended for assembling two cylindrical components with a common longitudinal axis comprises two support plates attached respectively facing one another to the components at the periphery thereof, three electrical connectors, each in two parts, parallel to one another and aligned in a circular arc (AC) with respect to said longitudinal axis on said plates each of which bears the corresponding parts of the connectors, and, between the three connectors and parallel thereto, two separable-attachment systems fixedly connecting said plates by locking said parts of the connectors. Advantageously, the two separable-attachment systems are positioned offset from said circular arc (AC), on the inside thereof, and in projection perpendicular to said longitudinal axis, and lie in the triangular plane formed by the three electrical connectors aligned in a circular arc.
US08777650B1	Quick-detachable modular jack and face panel mounting structure A quick-detachable modular jack and face panel mounting structure includes a face panel, an inner positioning frame mounted at the back side of the face panel for holding multiple modular jacks in the face panel in a row, a limiter plate vertically movably mounted in the inner positioning frame, and control rods held down in the inner positioning frame by the limiter plate to lock the modular jacks and respectively horizontally movable to unlock the respective modular jacks.
US08777646B2	Electrical socket adaptor An adaptor device for electrical sockets is provided that includes a body having an interior; a pair of prongs extending from the body in spaced parallel relationship; a pair of receptacles extending into the interior of the body, each receptacle structured to be in electrical contact with a respective prong of the pair of prongs; and a pair of prong springs received over the pair of prongs, each prong spring having a pair of flexible side walls that are structured to bulge outward away from the prong.
US08777645B2	Card accommodating and ejecting device An accommodating device for holding a card having an engaging portion in place is illustrated. The accommodating device includes a tray, a spring member, a covering member mounted on the tray, a latching mechanism, and a depressible button. The tray includes a bottom plate and two first sidewalls protruding from opposite edges of the bottom plate, which cooperatively defines a receiving channel for insertion of the card. The spring member is positioned on the bottom plate and compressed by the card when the card is received in the receiving channel. The latching mechanism includes a first resilient strip having a first hunched portion, a second resilient strip fixed to the cover, and a latching block fixed to the first and second resilient strips. The latching block is configured for lockingly engage with the engaging portion. The depressible button is arranged above the first hunched portion of the first resilient strip.
US08777640B2	Electrical connector with impedance correction element and method for the manufacture thereof The present invention relates to an electrical connector with an electrically insulating contact carrier and with at least one electrically conducting contact element which is held in the contact carrier. Furthermore, the present invention relates to a manufacturing method for manufacturing a connector of this type. Changes in dimension in the geometry of the contact carrier and also fluctuations in spacing and geometry in the enclosing shielding cause impedance inhomogeneities in the signal propagation direction that adversely influence the signal quality. Furthermore, it may be necessary to purposefully set the impedance so as to differ from the nominal impedance. An electrical connector is therefore proposed with an electrically insulating contact carrier (102) and with at least one electrically conducting contact element (104) which is held in the contact carrier (102), wherein at least one impedance correction element (112, 116) is arranged in the contact carrier (102) for setting the impedance of the connector (100) in the region in which the at least one contact element (104) is arranged.
US08777639B2	Plug-in socket provided with a voltage converter A plug-in socket for coupling to a corresponding standard plug and for connection of an electrical terminal device to a primary voltage. The plug-in socket improves the use of mains units with voltage converters. The plug-in socket comprises a socket housing, a first electrical contact arranged in the socket housing for coupling to a corresponding standard plug electrical contact, a voltage converter integrated in the socket housing and converting a primary voltage into at least one secondary voltage for the electrical terminal device, a second electrical contact arranged on the socket housing for electrical contacting of the secondary voltage, wherein the voltage converter is integrated in the socket housing so that the external dimensions of the socket housing are substantially predetermined by the dimensions of the corresponding standard plug.
US08777638B2	Wiring board and method of manufacturing the same A wiring board includes a first substrate portion including a first feed-through conductor portion in a vertical direction, a second substrate portion provided on the first substrate portion and including a second feed-through conductor portion in a vertical direction of a corresponding part to the first feed-through conductor portion, and a feed-through electrode including the first feed-through conductor portion and the second feed-through conductor portion.
US08777634B2	Magnetic connector A magnetic connector has a receptacle and a plug. The receptacle has an electromagnet comprising an inner core, an outer core, a coil disposed around the inner core and an air gap defined by the edges of the inner and outer cores. The plug has a plug core and an anchor defined by the plug core edge. The anchor is configured to insert into the air gap as a receptacle socket electrically connects with plug pins. The coil is energized and de-energized so as to assist in the insertion or removal of the anchor from within the air gap and the corresponding connection and disconnection of the socket and pins.
US08777630B2	Method and system for quantitative assessment of facial emotion sensitivity A method is presented to address quantitative assessment of facial emotion sensitivity of a subject, where the method comprises the steps of: (1) presenting at least one scene to the subject on a display, the scene comprising a plurality of faces and a background on a display, the plurality of faces comprising a plurality of facial expressions; (2) adjusting at least one facial expression on the scene; (3) receiving feedback from said subject via at least one input device; (4) quantitatively refining the received feedback; (5) modulating the adjusted facial expression relative to the accuracy of the received feedback; (6) (7) transforming the modulated facial expression; (8) calculating a critical threshold parameter; and (9) recording a critical threshold parameter onto a tangible computer readable medium. An apparatus for quantitative assessment of facial emotion sensitivity of a subject comprising a display device, an input device, a control device, and a tangible computer readable medium. In its simplest sense, a quantitative assessment profile of facial emotion sensitivity by psychophysical responses is generated on a tangible computer readable medium.
US08777626B2	Interactive system and method for multi-sensory learning An interactive computer based system and method for multi-sensory learning to teach students to read, to write, to improve their fluency, and to improve their reading comprehension. The multi-sensory system combines phonics and reading comprehension to teach students how to decode the alphabet and understand what they read. The multi-sensory system can be individually customized and tailored to meet needs of an individual student.
US08777625B2	Method for creating combined characters in a chinese character learning game A method for creating a combined character in a Chinese character learning game includes a first step of creating a portion representing a pronunciation of a combined character as a graphic character; a second step of a portion representing a meaning of the combined character as an additional graphic character(s); and a third step of disposing the graphic character(s) representing the meaning and the graphic character representing the pronunciation according to the positional relationship of the combined character. In the method, a graphic character of the combined character is formed by combining the two or more graphic characters.
US08777624B2	Wellness and weight management system and method A wellness and weight management system, method, program and software application configured to provide feedback for healthy and unhealthy lifestyle decisions that accommodates a wide variety of wellness goals, behaviors, dietary preferences, activity preferences, exercise preferences and body weight objectives.
US08777623B2	Apparatus for teaching defensive driving An apparatus for teaching defensive driving includes a hub unit removably attachable to an axle of a wheel of a vehicle, and a housing unit. The housing unit includes a swing arm member pivotally affixed therewithin, a wheel-height adjusting mechanism, and at least one wheel assembly swiveling along a vertical axis and affixed at a bottom end of the housing unit. The swing arm member includes a unit for fittingly engaging a portion of the hub unit and a height adjustable member. The height adjusting mechanism is operatingly coupled to the height adjustable member to adjust a height of the wheel relative to a surface of a road, thereby adjusting a friction level between the wheel and the road surface.
US08777620B1	Firearm trigger pull training system and methods A firearm training system provides a firearm body having a trigger and a trigger pull sensor circuit. When the trigger is pulled, the trigger pull sensor circuit provides trigger pull data allowing monitoring of the actual two-dimensional trigger pull path taken by the trigger during the trigger pull. The trigger pull path is graft on a predetermined map together with boundary lines representing a predetermined difference threshold from ideal trigger pull data. The system provides a way to monitor trigger pull path to determine whether the trigger has been pulled laterally and/or the firearm body has moved with respect to a longitudinal axis of the firearm body during the trigger pull. By repeatedly monitoring trigger pulls using the system, a user can train to improve trigger pull technique.
US08777608B2	Burner ignition system and method of ignition A gas burner ignition system, includes a power circuit (1), igniter (3), a solenoid valve (6); an igniter switch control circuit (2) which is connected between the power circuit (1) and igniter (3); a solenoid valve switch control circuit (5) connected between the power circuit (1) and the solenoid valve (6); the solenoid valve switch control circuit (5) and the igniter switch control circuit (2) are responsive to delay circuit (4), so that the user need only operate the control knob without the need to hold the operating knob until the thermocouple (42) has reached operating temperature.
US08777606B2	Injection stretch blow molding device and molded part heating device The injection stretch blow molding device includes an injection molding section that produces N (N is an integer equal to or larger 2) preforms by injection molding, a cooling section that subjects the N preforms transferred from the injection molding section to forced cooling, a heating section that continuously transfers and heats the N cooled preforms, and a blow molding section that subjects the N heated preforms to stretch blow molding in n (n is an integer equal to or larger than 2) operations, the blow molding section simultaneously stretch blow molding M (M=N/n, M is a natural number) preforms among the N preforms into M containers.
US08777604B2	Apparatus for manufacturing plastic containers with variable station deactivation Apparatus (1) for manufacturing plastic containers with a heating device (2) for heating plastic preforms (10) and a shaping device (4) for shaping plastic preforms into plastic containers, which shaping device is located downstream of the heating device (2) in a transportation direction of the plastic preforms, and with a transportation device (6), which transports the plastic preforms separately through the heating device (2) by means of a multiplicity of transport elements (14). Herein, the apparatus (1) is equipped with a stopper device (8) for temporary interruption of the flow of plastic preforms (10) to the heating device (2), wherein this stopper device (8) enables an interruption of the flow for individual plastic preforms (10). According to the invention, the heating device (2) is equipped with a multiplicity of heating elements (18) to heat individual plastic preforms (10) or groups of plastic preforms (10).
US08777600B1	Hydraulic curing system The hydraulic curing system contains a first hydraulic curing device, a second hydraulic curing device, and a number of fastener sets fixedly coupling the first and second hydraulic curing devices side by side together. The first hydraulic curing device has a number of first joint hole sets; whereas the second hydraulic curing device has a number of second joint hole sets. The fastener sets fixedly couple the first and second hydraulic curing devices side by side together by fastening corresponding first and second joint hole sets. Through the present invention, the transportation and assembly of the hydraulic curing system can be conducted by handling the first and second hydraulic curing devices separately. The convenience of the transportation and assembly is as such significantly enhanced.
US08777598B2	Stators for downwhole motors, methods for fabricating the same, and downhole motors incorporating the same The present invention recites a method of fabricating a stator for a downhole motor, the method comprising the steps of providing a stator tube having an interior surface and applying a bonding agent to the interior surface of the stator tube. Additionally, a mandrel is positioned within the stator tube, the mandrel having an outer geometry that is complimentary to a desired inner geometry for the stator. Furthermore, a reinforcing material is introduced into the stator tube to fill space between the mandrel and the interior surface of the stator tube and subsequently solidified to bond the reinforcing material to the interior surface of the stator tube, The mandrel is then removed from the bonded stator tube and reinforcing material such that a stator is fabricated.
US08777597B1	Linear peristaltic pump having a platen and pressure plate with curved surfaces A pump producing peristaltic pumping action by sequentially occluding a tube between staggered curved surfaces. The pump includes a pump frame with a platen with a plurality of curved surfaces. The curved surfaces of the platen operatively interact with opposing curved surfaces on a pressure plate assembly or the like. Pumping is accomplished via a tube sandwiched between the platen and the pressure plate assembly.
US08777595B2	Rotary piston engine A rotary piston engine comprises at least two rotors, a power component and a blocking component, which interact and have spur gearings, the number of teeth of which differs by one, the rotors and an engine housing accommodating the rotors delimiting working compartments. The rotors are twisted at a defined angle to each other. The power component is driven by and rotationally connected to an electric motor arranged on the same axis. The motor has an internal stator and an external rotor, the engine housing being directly connected to the motor. The engine housing has a supporting tube section projecting into and supporting the internal stator. The external rotor has a bell which encloses the internal stator and has a center drive shaft extending through the supporting tube section and rotationally connected to the power component, the drive shaft being mounted towards the inner wall of the supporting tube section.
US08777588B2	Flow-optimized cylinder drum for hydrostatic piston engines The invention relates to a cylinder drum (1′) for a hydrostatic piston engine, having at least one kidney-shaped control port/cylinder bore transition (5′, 5″, 5′″) which leads into a cylinder bore (2, 2′a) for receiving a piston that can be axially displaced therein, wherein the kidney-shaped control port/cylinder bore transition (5′, 5″, 5′″) is configured perpendicular to the flow direction in a stepless and edge-free manner.
US08777586B2	Rotational direction indicator The inventive rotational direction indicator for an electric motor having a cooling fan has a baffle element movable between two positions and which can be arranged on an electric motor with a cooling fan in such a way that the baffle element is positioned in an airstream of the cooling fan whose direction depends on the rotational direction of the electric motor. The baffle element is respectively moved into one of its two positions by the electric motor as a function of the direction of the airstream. The rotational direction indicator has a display unit designed to visually indicate the position of the baffle element and can be arranged on an outer side of the electric motor. The rotational direction indicator has a display actuating unit which connects the display unit and baffle element to one another, and transmits the position of the baffle element to the display unit.
US08777585B2	Electric compressor An electric compressor 10 includes a compression mechanism 11, an electric motor 12 driving the compression mechanism 11, and a control portion 13 controlling to drive the electric motor 12, incorporated into a single casing, and further includes a temperature detector 14 detecting a temperature of one or more components constituting one or both of the control portion 13 and the electric motor 12, and a current detector 15 detecting a current flowing through the component. When the temperature detected by the temperature detector 14 is a temperature Td, the current detected by the current detector 15 is a current Id, and a current corresponding to the temperature Td at a temperature characteristic relating to the current specific to the component is a current Ia(Td), the control portion 13 stops driving the electric motor 12 on the basis of a result of comparison between Ia(Td) and Id.
US08777582B2	Components containing ceramic-based materials and coatings therefor Hybrid components containing a ceramic material, in which detailed features of the components are formed of materials other than ceramic materials, yet result in a robust mechanical attachment of the ceramic and non-ceramic portions of the components. The components includes a first subcomponent formed of a ceramic-based material and a second subcomponent formed of a metallic material. The first subcomponent has a nub and the second subcomponent is separately formed and attached to the first subcomponent by casting the metallic material around the nub of the first subcomponent. The second subcomponent is attached to the first subcomponent by a compression fit and encapsulation of the second subcomponent on the nub of the first subcomponent. The nub has a compliant coating system that provides thermal expansion compliance between the metallic material of the second subcomponent and the ceramic-based material of the first subcomponent.
US08777579B2	Method of manufacturing a spar for a wind turbine from elements comprising different materials The invention provides a method of manufacturing a spar (1) for a wind turbine blade. The method comprises steps of providing at least two caps (2a, 2b), each cap forming an intermediate portion (4) between two end portions (5), where the end portions each forms a cap joint surface portion (6) along a longitudinal extending edge of the end portion and the intermediate portion forms an outer surface portion (7) of the spar, providing at least two webs (3a, 3b), each web being provided with web joint surface portions (8) along opposite and longitudinally extending edges, and connecting the joint surface portions of the caps with the joint surface portions of the webs to form a tubular configuration of the spar. The intermediate portions and the end portions are provided so that they comprise different materials.
US08777577B2	Hybrid fan blade and method for its manufacture With a hybrid fan blade, the supporting structure (1) in fiber-composite material is enclosed by an enveloping structure (2) only in an area of the airfoil, with a suction-side sheet-metal cover of the enveloping structure being pre-stressed in tension and a pressure-side sheet-metal cover of the enveloping structure being pre-stressed in compression. This reduces the hazard of delamination between the enveloping structure and the supporting structure.
US08777576B2	Metallic fan blade platform A platform is provided for use between adjacent fan blades joined to a rotor disk to provide an inner flowpath boundary. The platform includes: a metallic arcuate body with opposed forward and aft ends and opposed lateral edges; and a pair of frangible wings that extend from the lateral edges laterally and radially beyond the body.
US08777575B2	Method and arrangement for propeller pitch control This invention relates to a method and a Propeller Pitch Control Arrangement, comprising a propeller hub (1) having a number of interface fittings (10) for adjustable pitch positioning of a propeller blade, a positioning device (3), within said hub (1), having a number of propeller control interfaces (34) and an actuator arrangement (2, 4, 55) arranged to move and position said positioning device (3) to enable varying pitch for said propeller blades, characterized in—that said actuator arrangement includes a rotatable shaft (2) with threads (20) interacting with mating threads (30) at said positioning device (3), and,—that said rotatable shaft (2) is driven by a motor device (4, 5) positioned adjacent said hub (1).
US08777563B2	Axial brush seal A brush seal assembly for turbomachinery having a rotor can include a stationary seal component, a floating seal component coupled to the stationary seal component and circumferentially angled bristles arranged in a bristle pack, disposed in the floating seal component and extended axially with respect to the rotor.
US08777562B2	Blade air seal with integral barrier An air seal for use with rotating parts includes a thermal barrier coating layer adhered to a substrate. An abradable layer is adhered to the thermal barrier coating layer. The abradable layer comprises a matrix of agglomerated hexagonal boron nitride and a metallic alloy. Another hexagonal boron nitride is interspersed with the matrix.
US08777560B2	Method and apparatus for controlling tonal noise from subsonic fans A method and apparatus for reducing a selected tonal noise generated by a fan operating in a non-uniform flow by locating at least one obstruction in the non-uniform flow such that the at least one obstruction generates a noise that is out of phase with the selected tonal noise. The noise generated by the at least one obstruction interferes with the selected tonal noise, thus reducing the selected tonal noise. It is also contemplated to use additional obstructions to reduce other tonal noises generated by the fan.
US08777559B2	Cooling system of ring segment and gas turbine A cooling system of ring segment is provided with: a collision plate that has a plurality of small holes; a cooling space that is enclosed by the collision plate and a main body of the segment body; a first cavity that arranged is the upstream end portion of the segment body in the flow direction of the combustion gas so as to be perpendicular to the axial direction of a rotating shaft; a first cooling passage that communicates from the cooling space to the first cavity; and a second cooling passage that communicates from the first cavity to a fire combustion gas d gas space in the downstream end portion of the segment body in the flow direction of the combustion gas.
US08777556B2	California wind engine The CWE Concepts are designed to extract the maximum possible wind energy passing through a given square footage area of influencing machine interface at given calculated velocities, to deliver that energy to two power take off shafts for end user's useful work (electrical power generation and other requirements). A multi-bucket “S” rotor, airfoils, baffles and cowling combined, utilize one hundred percent of that moving air volume most efficiently. Our strategies are to use smaller units, yielding more power than existing designs while being installed at much lower levels, urban friendly, less visible, nearly-enclosed rotating machinery, quieter, and safer for indigenous wildlife populations. We plan to market for commercial and residential customers, in turn providing HVAC and electrical power augmentation to utility companies—a reliable and robust addition to the national power grid. Our goals—reduce dependency on foreign oil and provide a clean alternative.
US08777554B2	Intermediate fan stage A fan system is disclosed having a forward fan stage configured to pressurize an airflow and an aft fan stage having a tip-fan configured to pressurize a first portion of a pressurized air flow from the forward fan stage wherein the aft fan stage is driven by a second portion of the pressurized airflow.
US08777552B2	System and methods for forming stacks A method of forming layered stacks of bundles includes providing a gripping appliance comprising a first gripping assembly and a second gripping assembly. The first gripping assembly is configured for grasping one or more first bundles and the second gripping assembly is configured for grasping one or more second bundles. The first and second gripping assemblies are configured such that first and second bundles grasped thereby may be reoriented relative to one another. The method further includes retrieving from a first location one or more first bundles with the first gripping assembly and one or more second bundles with the second gripping assembly and transporting the first and second bundles to a second location, During transport of the first and second bundles, the bundles are reoriented relative to one another. The bundles are deposited at a selected position in the second location to form at least a partial layer of a layered stack of bundles.
US08777550B2	Zero velocity stacking device A stacking device includes a drive mechanism coupled to a movable band. The movable band is configured to move along an orbital path, and a twin roller with first and second portions engages the movable band and folds the movable band into at least two portions. In some cases, the drive mechanism can also include, or be attached to, two additional rollers that are inside the band and move along the orbital path. A stacking device may also include a roller set with first and second portions that press against a band. A mechanism may cause the band to orbit along a path such that it causes the band to receive a stackable item and move it to a predetermined location. At the predetermined location, the band releases the stackable item while continuing to orbit along the path, but while having zero total velocity.
US08777549B2	Die rotation system and method A system and method for partially or completely inverting (rotating) a die and subsequently returning the die to its normal operating position. Systems of the invention include a roll-over unit that engages a roll frame or similar structure to which a die of interest is temporarily secured. The roll-over unit includes a drive motor that is used to rotate the roll frame and the die that is releasably coupled thereto. A deceleration assembly is provided to bring rotation of the die to a slow and controlled stop in one or both rotational directions. When the drive motor is a hydraulic motor, the deceleration assembly may include deceleration valves that are actuated by a rack gear that is caused to move linearly during rotation of the drive motor.
US08777548B2	Pick-and-place apparatus for glass substrate A pick-and-place apparatus for handling glass substrate is disclosed and which comprises a chassis and a transportation platform which includes a transferring device disposed on the chassis and includes a first frame and a plurality of transferring rods rotationally disposed across the first frame along a first reference direction. A vertical displacing mechanism is provided for moving the transportation platform to move vertically to a pre-determined height. And a horizontal displacing device is provided for moving the transportation platform to more along the first reference direction such that the transferring device can be moved in and out of the cartridge, wherein the first transferring rods rotationally move the glass substrate into the cartridge or out of the cartridge.
US08777544B1	Storage means and shipping method for motorcycles A storage means and transportation method for at least one (1) motorcycle is herein disclosed, comprising a platform plate supported at corner locations by rotating casters. A vertical edging is provided along the long edges of the platform to prevent the motorcycle from rolling off. At least one (1) handles is provided along the long edge to aid in manipulating each motorcycle along a floor surface for shipping or storage. At each end portion of the platform are fold-down ramps to allow each motorcycle to be rolled on and off of the platform. Each ramp comprises a support to anchor the platform against the floor surface by lifting the casters slightly off of the floor. Once the platform is secured in this fashion, each motorcycle can be rolled on and off the platform safely. Each motorcycle is covered by a fiberglass hard cover which is attached thereto the platform for long-term storage and/or shipment.
US08777543B2	Rollback carrier gravity tilt dampening system A rollback carrier includes a vehicle chassis, a truck bed assembly supported on the vehicle chassis and displaceable between a transport position and a loading position, and a front actuating arm acting between the truck bed assembly and the vehicle chassis. The front actuating arm dampens a tilt position of the truck bed relative to the vehicle chassis.
US08777538B2	Bonding fastener with environmental seals A bonding fastener having two components which electrically bonds metallic surfaces through serrated metal teeth on the underside of the head of the first component and on the inside surface of the second component which embed into each metal surface as a fastener is tightened. In one embodiment, the fastener is a nut and bolt combination, and in another embodiment the fastener is a two-part rivet. A sealing material circumferentially outward from the teeth on both the first component and second component creates an air-tight and water-tight seal around the teeth, protecting the bonding location from air and water infiltration from the outside. The second component also has an internal seal, sealing around the shank of the first component to prevent axial infiltration of air or water along the shank and protecting the bonding locations from corrosion from contaminants entering along that route.
US08777536B2	Cable lug comprising a nut or functional part, method for the production of such a cable lug, and nut A cable lug and a method of use is provided. The cable lug has a receiving tube section for a cable, a flat piece-connecting section that is molded on and is provided with a bore, and a nut which is captively and preferably rotatably mounted on the flat piece-connecting section. The nut does not penetrate the flat piece-connecting section while being mounted by a shaped mounting material section of the flat piece-connecting section, which extends into an undercut in the nut. The mounting material section is in the undercut with an axial clearance. The mounting material section is rooted in a lowered in a step-type manner in the flat piece-connecting section. The lowered area is rotationally symmetrical and is provided with a conical section which opens outward and vertically and encompasses at least one conical area.
US08777533B2	Blind fastener A blind fastener including a core bolt having a shank with a head and a threaded portion, and a sleeve having an elongated body with a head, an internal threaded portion, and a tapered notch formed within an exterior surface thereof and defined by a tapered portion having a slope and a frictional enhanced surface. The core bolt is installed within the sleeve such that its threaded portion engages threadedly the internal threaded portion of the sleeve. During installation of the fastener within the plurality of workpieces, a bulb is formed on the elongated body of the sleeve, the bulb defining a portion of a bulbed portion. When a selected axial force is reached, the bulbed portion separates from the elongated body and engages axially the tapered portion of the sleeve, increasing the diameter of the bulb which engages a blind side of one of the workpieces.
US08777531B2	Anchor An anchor comprises first, second and third flanges. A surface of the first flange facing the second flange defines a plane. A contour of the first flange projected onto the plane extending beyond a contour of the second flange projected onto the plane. A base connecting part includes the third flange and the second flange. An accessory connecting part operatively connected to the base connecting part includes the first flange. The third flange is movable relative to at least one of the first and second flanges between a first position and a second position. In the first position, a contour of the third flange projected onto the plane is contained within the contour of the second flange projected onto the plane. In the second position, the contour of the third flange projected onto the plane extends beyond the contour of the second flange projected onto the plane.
US08777528B2	Outside diameter shaft reducer A outer diameter shaft reducer tool includes a cutter head and main body capable of assembly together through the use of a pair of set screws. The assembly can then easily be connected to a hand-held drill through a common extension thereby allowing for the provision of automated rotation of the cutting assembly. To reduce the outside diameter of a shaft, a user inserts the bar or rod into a lumen within the main body and applies pressure to cause a number of cutting teeth to engage the end portion of the bar or rod near the outer portion of the end face. As the teeth cut, the outside diameter of the shaft is thereby reduced.
US08777527B2	Drill production method A drill having a drill head (11) made of hard metal and a shaft (12) or a coupling piece (16) made of a sintered iron alloy. The hard metal is joined in the form of a material connection to the sintered iron alloy by a sintering process.
US08777526B2	Deep hole processing device There is provided a deep hole processing device for forming a hole by rotational movement of a main spindle to which a tool is attached of a portal machine toward a workpiece, having, a bush having a hole diameter for guiding rotational movement of the tool, and a bush holding unit provided on a cross rail capable of moving on columns of the portal machine for holding the bush with respect to a spindle head on which the main spindle is mounted at a predetermined distance, wherein a position of the bush relative to the workpiece and a pressure at which the bush is pressed against the workpiece may be controlled by movement of the cross rail.
US08777525B2	Polygonal turning insert Polygonal turning insert has a cutting edge including three part edges, a nose edge and two main edges, and chip-guiding flank surfaces for each part edge, a primary flank surface, and secondary flank surfaces. The primary flank surface is convexly arched and delimited by an arched lower boundary line, which has an apex point facing the nose edge and is situated along a bisector between the main edges, and includes two mirror-symmetrical arc part lines extending from the apex point to a pair of opposite end points situated along a reference line intersecting the bisector at a midpoint between the end points. The distance between the midpoint and the individual end points is greater than that between the midpoint and the apex point. An angle of inclination of the primary flank surface decreases from a greatest value in a bisector section to a smallest value in a reference line section.
US08777524B2	Cutting insert A cutting insert has a top surface, a bottom surface, a plurality of side surfaces that connect the top and bottom surfaces. The side surfaces form an obtuse angle with the bottom surface as well as an acute angle with the top surface. The side surfaces include a first side surface and a second side surface, which form an obtuse angle with each other when seen from the above. A main cutting edge is formed at an intersection between the first side surface and the top surface. An inclined cutting edge, which is only for ramp milling, and a minor cutting edge are formed at an intersection between the second side surface and the top surface. An obtuse angle, which the second side surface forms with the bottom surface, is greater than that which the first side surface forms with the bottom surface.
US08777522B2	Mine seal with multiple mortared walls An explosive-resistant mine seal (2) is provided, which includes a pair of block walls (14, 16). An adhesive (22) is provided between adjoining surfaces of the blocks (20) where the adhesive (22) has greater strength properties than the blocks (20) themselves. A core member (18, 18′) is provided between the two walls (14, 16) and is bound thereto. The adhesive (22) may be coated over the walls (14, 16) to increase the strength of the mine seal (2).
US08777514B2	Gabion The invention concerns a recoverable gabion for use in protecting military or civilian installations from weapons assault or from elemental forces, such as flood waters, lava flows, avalanches, soil instability, slope erosion and the like. The gabion comprises opposed side walls comprising a plurality of side wall elements connected together at spaced intervals by a plurality of partition walls such that spaces between neighboring pairs of partition walls define, together with the side walls, individual compartments of the gabion, adjacent side and partition walls being connected to one another by pivotal connections enabling the gabion to be folded between fully flattened and deployed configurations, wherein at least one of the pivotal connections is a releasable connection which when released allows a side wall element to open with respect to the gabion to allow access from the side of the gabion to any contents of the gabion compartments.
US08777513B2	Hydraulic boat hoist A hydraulic boat lift uses two hydraulic cylinders to pull/release cables attached to a boat cradle. The hydraulic cylinders are operated by attachment to a tandem pump to cause them to operate in a synchronized fashion. Furthermore a switch assembly has a switch associated with each respective hydraulic cylinder, the pair of switches being wired in parallel so that if one side of the boat cradle reaches its fully raised position before the other side, the one side will stop and the other side will continue to move up until it is also disposed in a fully raised position before stopping by turning off the electricity to the tandem pump.
US08777510B2	End treatments and transitions for water-ballasted protection barrier arrays An end treatment array for crash attenuation includes a transition barrier module formed of side walls, end walls, a top wall, and a bottom wall, wherein the module walls together define an enclosed interior space. The end treatment array further includes a containment impact sled having an axially extending frame. The frame has a width sufficient to contain the transition barrier module within the frame when in an assembled configuration, and has an axial length which is at least one-half the length of the transition barrier module. The frame defines an interior volume, the purpose of which is to contain a substantial portion of the transition barrier module in the assembled configuration, and to contain debris caused by destruction of the plastic barrier modules in a vehicular impact. The containment impact sled is attached to the transition barrier module.
US08777509B2	Device and method for assembling two shell elements made from a composite material A device and method for assembling two structural elements made from a composite material is provided. The device includes two cylindrical flanged receptacles, each pierced by an aperture perpendicular to the axis of the cylinder, and a shaft that can be introduced into said apertures. The device also includes bearing means, which bear on the interior surfaces of the cylindrical receptacles and can maintain tension in the shaft when the shaft extends through the apertures in the two receptacles. The device includes means of placing the shaft under tension.
US08777502B2	Printer with paper cutter and control method for the same A printer has an automatic cutter and a recording paper guide member. The automatic cutter includes a fixed knife attached to the printer case and a movable knife attached to an access cover. The movable knife is attached to the open side of the access cover relative to the fixed knife. The recording paper guide member is disposed to the printer case at a position closer to the open side of the access cover than the movable knife. The movable knife protruding to the fixed knife side and the recording paper guide member interfere if the access cover is opened when the movable knife has moved to the cutting start position. As a result, because movement of the access cover is limited and the access cover will not open, the movable knife protruding to the fixed knife side is not exposed outside the printer case.
US08777496B2	Optical device An optical device includes: a chassis that receives an optical element; a first terminal that is extended from a bottom face of the chassis and is electrically connected to the optical element; a second terminal that is extended from a side face of the chassis and is electrically connected to the optical element; a projection portion that is provided on the bottom face of the chassis and a top face of the projection portion is higher than a distal end of the first terminal.
US08777495B2	Optical connector with sloped surface An optical connector includes a printed circuit board (PCB), an optical-electric coupling element, a jumper, and optical fibers. The optical-electric coupling element is attached on the PCB. The jumper is detachably positioned on the optical-electric coupling element. The optical-electric coupling element includes first coupling lenses. The jumper includes a first external sidewall, a second external sidewall, a third external surface, and a fourth external surface. The first external sidewall defines receiving holes. Each optical fiber is received in a respective receiving hole. The third external surface defines a sloped surface extending from the third external surface to the first external sidewall. The third external surface and the sloped surface form an angle therebetween. The fourth external surface defines a cavity. The jumper includes second coupling lenses positioned on a bottom surface of the cavity. Each second coupling lens is aligned with a respective first coupling lens.
US08777494B2	Rolling bearing, its use, and a motor vehicle fitted with such a rolling bearing This rolling bearing (1) comprises an inner ring (2), an outer ring (3), rolling members (5) placed in a rolling bearing chamber (4) arranged between the inner and outer rings, a bistable washer (7) capable of selectively taking one of two predetermined configurations, and an annular flange (8) partly delimiting the rolling bearing chamber (4) and mounted on a first ring (3; 2) of the inner and outer rings. The flange (8) extends radially from the first ring (3; 2) and is axially aligned with the second ring (2; 3).
US08777491B2	Bearing assembly with splash protection A wheel bearing assembly includes a wheel hub, a knuckle member defining a bore, and a bearing arranged in the bore and configured to rotatably support the wheel hub. The bearing includes a seal member configured to cover internal workings of the bearing. The wheel bearing assembly also includes an annular slinger arranged on the wheel hub and configured to at least partially screen the seal member to minimize ingestion of contaminants by the bearing from the ambient. The wheel bearing assembly additionally includes an annular shield configured to at least partially shield the slinger from the contaminants and generate a labyrinth path from the ambient to the seal member for any of the contaminants. A vehicle employing the above described wheel bearing assembly is also disclosed.
US08777488B2	Fluid dynamic bearing motor, and recording medium driving apparatus A motor includes a rotor having a permanent magnet; a sleeve rotatably supporting the rotor; fluid provided in a gap between the rotor and the sleeve; a stator having a electromagnet disposed opposite to the permanent magnet to rotate the rotor relative to the stator; and a boss interposed between the sleeve and the stator. In the motor, the sleeve, the stator, and the boss are provided as separate members.
US08777485B2	Method and apparatus pertaining to computed tomography scanning using a calibration phantom These various embodiments serve to facilitate improving the accuracy of a computed tomography (CT) process. This can comprise operably coupling at least one calibration phantom to a CT scan table and then, during a CT scan of an object that is disposed on the scan table, also gathering calibration information using that calibration phantom(s). By one approach, this calibration phantom can comprise one or more annular-shaped members. When using a plurality of annular-shaped members, at least some of the annular-shaped members can be disposed concentrically with one another. By one approach, in lieu of the foregoing or in combination therewith, this calibration phantom can comprise one or more pins and/or spherically-shaped members (and/or other shapes of geometric interest). If desired, such spherically-shaped members can be combined with the aforementioned pins.
US08777472B2	Image forming apparatus An image forming apparatus 1 is provided with an apparatus main body 2 for performing a predetermined process on a sheet, a cover 34 openable and closable relative to the apparatus main body 2, a light emitting unit 51 provided in the apparatus main body 2 and including an emission source 511 for generating light, a control board 512 for controlling the emission source 511 and causing it to generate the light and wiring 513 electrically connected to the control board 512, and a display member 52 provided in the cover 34, arranged to face the emission source 511 and including an incident portion 521 on which the light is incident, an output portion 522 for outputting the light to the outside and a light guide portion 523 for guiding the light from the incident portion 521 to the output portion 522.
US08777458B2	Light flux controlling member, light emitting device, and lighting device Disclosed is a light emitting device to reduce the number of components and elements of a light emitting device and a lighting device having the light emitting device, and simplify and miniaturize the structures of these devices. With this light flux controlling member (4), a total reflecting surface (12) functions like a reflecting member, light from a light emitting element (LED, for example) (3) that is incident from an input surface (13) and that arrives at the total reflecting surface (12) is total-reflected by the total reflecting surface (12) toward the output surface (11) side (including a first output surface (11a) and second output surface (11b)), and the illuminating light from the second output surface (11b) is superimposed upon the illuminating light from the first output surface (11a), so that the light from the light emitting element (LED, for example) (3) is used efficiently and illuminates the illumination target surface (6) over a wide range.
US08777446B2	Portable light having a rotatable head A portable light may comprise a light body and a light head rotatable relative to the light body. The light head may comprise a light source that may be pivotable relative to a base of the light head. The light source may be electrically connected to the light body by rotatable coaxial connections between the light head and the light body and by rotatable coaxial electrical connections between the base of the light head and the light source. The light may optionally further comprise a hanger movable relative to the light body, or may comprise one or more magnets on the light body, or may comprise a clip on the light body, or a combination thereof.
US08777444B2	Streetlight having a hollow pole A streetlight having a hollow pole is provided with a lower hand-access opening closed by a hatch. The hollow pole has an internal surface and an external surface, its external surface being lined by external photovoltaic cells in an upper section thereof, and a lamp that is positioned inside the hollow pole. The upper end of the hollow pole is open and the lamp is mounted on positioning means so that the lamp can be moved, inside the hollow pole, from the lower hand-access opening until near the upper end of the hollow pole on which a tiltable screen is mounted having a side facing upward and a side facing downward, the latter being lined by a reflecting panel, the internal surface of the hollow pole being covered by internal photovoltaic cells.
US08777443B2	Split type LED lamp A split type LED lamp includes a base and a lamp body. The lamp body has an LED light board, a second plug portion, a battery slot and a battery, and the LED light board has a plurality of LED light sources and a wireless signal receiver. After the base and the lamp body are combined and installed to a lamp holder for receiving electric power and being used as a lamp bulb, or the lamp body is removed and used as a flashlight independently. In addition, the battery can be replaced to reduce unnecessary waste of resources, and the wireless signal receiver is provided for receiving a wireless control signal transmitted from a remote controller or a mobile communication device to drive the lamp body to emit light and improve the convenience of use.
US08777441B2	Thermoelectric ornamental assembly A thermoelectric ornamental assembly for generating thermoelectric energy in a body adornment like a ring. The assembly uses a thermoelectric effect to generate an applied temperature gradient between an inner layer and an outer layer of the ring. The inner layer both receives and transmits a thermal current away from the skin. The outer layer receives the thermal current. Electrons diffuse from the inner layer, which is a warm, excited electron area, to the outer layer, which is a cool, less excited electron area. This gradient creates the thermal current. A thermoelectric layer is sandwiched between the outer and inner layer. The thermoelectric layer includes a substrate portion that supports variably doped semiconductors for creating a difference in conductivity so that the charge carriers can diffuse and create a voltage across the thermoelectric portion. The voltage produces a light visible through a transparent area of the ring.
US08777440B2	Illuminated color changing interchangeable drinking vessel assembly An illuminated, color-changing, interchangeable drinking vessel assembly that includes an upper fluid retaining vessel, a neck, a collar on a stem, and a base. Magnets are located in the neck of the upper fluid retaining vessel and light emitting diodes (SMD LED's) and a magnetically actuated switch are located in the collar of the stem. A controller and battery are located in the base of the stem and are also electrically connected to the light emitting diodes. When the upper fluid retaining vessel and neck are magnetically attached to the collar of the stem, the magnetically operated switch detects the magnetic field and closes the circuit, activating the SMD LED's.
US08777437B2	Light-emitting module A light-emitting module includes a substrate having a first surface and a second surface, at least one light-emitting device disposed on the first surface of the substrate, and an optical reflection layer disposed on the first surface of the substrate and surrounding the light-emitting device for receiving a portion of light emitted from the light-emitting device and reflecting the portion of light. The substrate can be rigid or flexible.
US08777436B2	Battery powered lamp socket that supplies energy for LED or CFL light bulbs A standard table lamp requires an electrical outlet to supply alternating current (AC) and illuminate a standard AC light bulb, including new technology, low wattage AC light bulbs such as a 7 Watt LED or a 7 Watt CFL. This limits the placement and portability of light emitting devices such as table lamps, floor lamps, chandeliers or wall sconces within a commercial or residential living space. To date, there are products that use batteries to power light sources but the form factors are usually bland and unattractive to interior designers and homeowners alike. This invention takes the idea of portable lighting and standardizes the form factor by using already developed standard low wattage AC light bulbs such as LED and CFL and standard AC light bulb sockets embedded in the design.
US08777435B2	Aroma lamp The aroma lamp contains a base a base within which a circuit board is housed. On the circuit board, there is a fan, an atomization element, and a number of light generation elements. The base also has a short tube and a cap housing the fan and connecting the short tube. The aroma lamp further contains a container having a top opening. The container is joined to the base and stores the liquid to be atomized. The container has an axial tube connecting the top opening and the short tube of the base and a valve element for releasing the liquid to the base. The aroma lamp also contains a cover having a top opening aligned with the top opening of the container. The cover is joined to the base and houses the container. The atomized vapor is released through the top openings of the container and the cover.
US08777431B2	Integrated automatic compass for vehicle An integrated automotive compass suitable for use in a vehicle includes an application specific integrated circuit that includes at least first and second magnetoresponsive sensing elements. The first and second magnetoresponsive sensing elements and at least a portion of associated circuitry are established on a common semiconductor substrate using CMOS technology. When powered via a vehicle power source, the application specific integrated circuit, at least in part, generates a compass directional heading of the vehicle. The directional heading of the vehicle is determined, at least in part, responsive to a sensing of a magnetic field by the magnetoresponsive sensing elements. Automatic compensation for a deviating magnetic field during operation of the vehicle is achieved, at least in part, via an algorithm processed by a processor of application specific integrated circuit.
US08777426B2	Projection type display A projection type display includes an optical system that includes a focus lens and is configured to project an image, a driver configured to move the focus lens along an optical axis, a phase difference sensor configured to receive light of the image that has been projected, and a controller configured to calculate a phase difference based on an output of the phase difference sensor, to calculate an in-focus position based on the phase difference that has been calculated, and to move the focus lens via the driver to the in-focus position for a focus control of the optical system, wherein the controller provides the focus control while a current position of the focus lens is located within an allowable range that is previously set in a movable range over which the focus lens can move along the optical axis.
US08777422B2	Illumination optical system including light guide on which blue light is incident at one end surface and green and red light are incident on a side surface, and projector including the same An illumination optical system includes: a light source device including: a red light-emitting device that emits red light; a blue light-emitting device that emits blue light; and a fluorescence plate comprising a green fluorescence region and a light transmission region, wherein the green fluorescence region is excited by the blue light to emit green light, and the light transmission region transmits the blue light; a light guide including a dichroic layer therein, wherein the dichroic layer is arranged to intersect a center axis of the light guide at about 45 degree to transmit the blue light while reflecting the green light and the blue light; a mirror group and a lens group. The blue light transmitted through the light transmission region is incident on an end surface of the light guide, and the red light and the green light are incident on a side surface of the light guide.
US08777420B2	Distortion correction for projector An image processing device for a projector including an image formation section that emits light of an image, and a projection system that projects the emitted light onto a projection surface. The image processing device has a distortion correction technique for images displayed on the projection surface. The image processing device has a target display area determination section that determines, in a display area serving as a reference on the projection surface, based on a current value of a parameter, any of target display areas set for values possibly taken by the parameter within an allowable range to be targeted on a distortion-free image for display on the projection surface; a reference formation area determination section that determines a reference formation area to be formed with a virtual distorted image and a correction application section that generates corrected image data for supply to the image formation section.
US08777419B2	Projection apparatus and location method for determining a position of a light point on a projection image A projection apparatus and a location method for determining a position of a light point on a projection image of the projection apparatus are provided. The projection apparatus comprises a lens, a light detector, a light guide module and a processing circuit. The light guide module is configured to receive the light point via the lens, and to guide the light point into the light detector. The light detector outputs a detection signal to the processing circuit according to the light point within a detection period. The processing circuit determines the position of the light point on the projection image according to the detection signal.
US08777413B2	Ophthalmic wavefront sensor operating in parallel sampling and lock-in detection mode One embodiment of the present invention is an ophthalmic wavefront sensor for use with an ophthalmic microscope to provide continuous measurements of the refractive state of an eye. The wavefront sensor operates in both parallel sampling and lock-in detection mode by synchronizing the pulsing of the light source with a multiple number of position sensing devices/detectors used for detecting the centroid position of the sampled sub-wavefronts. Other embodiments include a beam scanner to sample selected portions of the wavefront and a live image sensor and a tracking deflector.
US08777411B2	Fundus examination device capable of aiding in gaze fixation and image focusing A fundus examination device aiding in gaze fixation and image focusing includes a light projecting device for projecting an examination light to illuminate an examinee's fundus; an illuminating system for transmitting the examination light to the examinee's eye and receiving a fundus image; an imaging system for showing the fundus image; and a focusing and gaze-fixation device located in the illuminating system and including a focus mask formed in a focusing zone, on which the examinee's eye focuses. The focus mask includes a split image screen surrounded by a light-penetrable structure, and gaze fixation devices for forming gaze-fixation images at examinee's eye focusing positions within the focusing zone, such that the split image screen and the gaze-fixation images are located at different focal positions corresponding to the examinee's eye curvature. Therefore, when a split image focusing is completed, the gaze-fixation images are also located at clearly recognizable focal positions.
US08777407B2	Progressive-power lens and progressive-power lens design method A progressive-power lens includes an eyeball-side surface including a distance portion and a near portion having different values of dioptric power. An intermediate portion connects the distance portion and the near portion to each other. An object-side surface of the progressive-power lens includes a first region extending along a principal meridian and having a spherical shape having first curvature, a second region facing the distance portion and having a spherical shape having second curvature equal to the first curvature, and a third region located outside the first region and below the second region and having third curvature greater than the first curvature.
US08777398B2	Recording apparatus An ink jet printer includes a platen in which a plurality of plate members configuring a support surface supporting a roll paper are disposed at a predetermined interval so that suction grooves are formed between the plate members, a recording unit for performing a recording process on the roll paper placed on the support surface, a pressure chamber disposed at the back side of the platen and communicating with the suction grooves, and a suction mechanism for sucking up the roll paper disposed on the support surface through the suction grooves.
US08777397B2	Conveyor device and inkjet recording apparatus A conveyor device includes a drive roller that conveys a tray or a sheet through a conveying path, a rotating shaft that rotates between a first position and a second position, a spur roller that moves between a fourth position, in which the spur roller approaches the drive roller, and a fifth position, in which the spur roller separates from the drive roller at a distance greater than a thickness of the tray, an elastic shaft that supports the spur roller and urges the spur roller toward the drive roller, a first contacting portion that contacts one surface of the tray passing through the conveying path when the rotating shaft is in the second position; and a second contacting portion that deforms the elastic shaft and that moves the spur roller to the fifth position when the rotating shaft rotates from the first position to the second position.
US08777388B2	Fluid distribution system having four-way valve A fluid distribution system for a printhead, the system having a fluid container fluidically interconnected with the printhead via a closed fluid flow loop, a bypass fluid path bypassing the printhead on the closed loop, a gas vent on the closed loop and a four-way valve on the closed loop for selectively allowing fluid flow along the closed loop via the printhead and the bypass path and venting of gas in the closed loop via the gas vent.
US08777387B1	Printhead including coanda catcher with grooved radius A printhead includes a jetting module, deflection mechanism, and catcher. The jetting module includes a nozzle array extending along a length of the jetting module and forms drops travelling along a first path from liquid jets emitted from the nozzles. The deflection mechanism causes selected drops to deviate from the first path to a second path. The catcher intercepts drops travelling along one of the paths, includes a drop contact surface and a liquid removal conduit connected in fluid communication by a Coanda surface including a radial surface having an array of grooves. The array of grooves extends in the same direction as that of the nozzle array. For a given groove, the groove includes a depth that varies along the radial surface as viewed relative to the drop contact surface and a liquid removal conduit surface adjacent to the Coanda surface.
US08777386B2	Solid ink stick having identical identifying features on a plurality of edges A solid ink stick enables identification of the ink stick in a variety of different orientations, while preventing the ink stick from being inserted into an ink loader in an orientation in which the ink stick cannot be identified. The ink stick includes two polygon end surfaces opposite one another. Each edge of the end surfaces has a first and a second identifier, which are identical to one another to enable the ink stick to be inserted into an ink loader without regard to the orientation of the edges.
US08777380B2	Liquid ejecting head, liquid ejecting apparatus and piezoelectric element A liquid ejecting head for discharging liquid from nozzle openings is provided. The liquid ejecting head includes a piezoelectric element comprising a piezoelectric film inserted between electrodes with buffer layer on one or two surfaces of the piezoelectric film, wherein the piezoelectric film is made from barium titanate-based composition having a perovskite structure containing barium, titanium as well as copper equal to or less than 3 mol % of titanium amount, lithium more than or equal to 2 mol % and less than or equal to 5 mol % of titanium amount, and boron more than or equal to 2 mol % and less than or equal to 5 mol % of titanium amount and the buffer layer is formed from a complex oxides with perovskite structure containing bismuth, iron, manganese, barium and titanium.
US08777378B2	Piezoelectric actuator, inkjet head assembly and method of manufacturing the same There are provided a piezoelectric actuator, an inkjet head assembly, and a method of manufacturing the same. The piezoelectric actuator includes: upper and lower electrodes providing driving voltage; and a piezoelectric substance formed between the upper and lower electrodes through solidifying a liquid piezoelectric substance, and providing driving force to ink in each of a plurality of pressure chambers provided in an inkjet head, wherein the piezoelectric substance includes a plurality of branch portions individually provided on an upper portion of each of the plurality of pressure chambers and a large area portion integrally provided while being connected to each of the plurality of branch portions at one ends of the plurality of branch portions.
US08777377B2	Liquid discharge head A liquid discharge head includes a recording element substrate including an electrode pad, a support member including a recess that supports the recording element substrate on a bottom surface thereof, an electric wiring member, and a sealant. The electric wiring member includes an opening through which the recording element substrate is exposed, an electric lead wire extending from the opening and connected to the electrode pad, and a protrusion formed in the opening and extending between a side surface of the recording element substrate and an inner side surface of the recess facing the side surface. A distal end of the protrusion is in contact with the bottom surface of the recess. The sealant is disposed in a region surrounded by a surface of the protrusion, the bottom surface of the recess, the inner side surface of the recess, and the side surface of the recording element substrate.
US08777373B2	Image forming apparatus An image forming apparatus includes a carriage, a drive mechanism, a flexible harness, and a support member. The carriage includes a recording head to jet liquid droplets. The drive mechanism, which moves the carriage in a main scanning direction, includes a belt extending in the main scanning direction. The flexible harness, connecting the recording head and another unit, transmits signals between the recording head and another unit. The support member supports the flexible harness in an upright position over the belt. The flexible harness is routed at least partially in the main scanning direction of the carriage. The support member includes a regulation member at an exit portion of the support member to set a vertical height of the support member at the regulation member smaller than a width of the flexible harness.
US08777372B2	Liquid ejection apparatus, cleaning apparatus for liquid ejection head, and inkjet recording apparatus A liquid ejection apparatus includes: a liquid ejection head; a long wiping member configured to come in contact with and wipe a liquid ejection face of the head; a wiping member conveyance device configured to drive the wiping member to be conveyed in a lengthwise direction of the wiping member; a pressing member configured to cause the wiping member to come in contact and pressed against the liquid ejection face when the pressing member is placed at a first position; and a slack elimination mechanism configured to push down the pressing member to a second position lower than the first position before the wiping member is brought into contact with the liquid ejection face, and to stop pushing the pressing member so as to move the pressing member along with the wiping member to the first position to bring the wiping member into contact with the liquid ejection face.
US08777367B2	Inkjet recording device and method for controlling the same An inkjet recording apparatus includes a recording head which includes an ejection surface having a plurality of ejection ports which eject ink, a wiping unit which includes a wiping member which wipes the ejection surface and a reeling unit which reels the wiping member, a remaining amount obtaining unit which obtains a remaining amount of the wiping member, and a use amount estimation unit which estimates a use amount of the wiping member in accordance with recording data. The inkjet recording apparatus controls a wiping operation performed by the wiping unit in accordance with the remaining amount and the estimated use amount.
US08777366B2	Liquid-discharging device, and method for substituting liquid A liquid-discharging device includes a nozzle that discharges liquid including a substance having sedimentation properties, a liquid supply channel, an inspection part, stirring part and a control part. The inspection part brings the liquid to be discharged from the nozzle to a first electric potential by a first electrode, discharges the liquid toward a second electrode of a second electric potential, and inspects a discharge state of the liquid based on a change of an electrostatic capacitance between the first electrode and the second electrode. The control part causes the nozzle to eject the liquid in order to substitute the liquid in an area downstream side than a predetermined area with the liquid stirred by the stirring part in the predetermined area. The control part determines a timing of ejection completion of the liquid based on the change of the electrostatic capacitance.
US08777360B2	Liquid ejecting apparatus and method for controlling liquid ejecting head One of the two flow passages branches from one of two ink cartridges to one of the two discharging portions and one of the two individual discharging portions. The other flow passage branches from the other ink cartridge to the other discharging portion and the other individual discharging portion. A ratio of frequency of use of each of the discharging portions, Ra, and frequency of use of each of the individual discharging portions, Rb, satisfies Ra:Rb=1:1/2.
US08777358B2	Inkjet printer In an inkjet head, at least one of a plurality of nozzle arrays to eject ink of different colors from one another is arranged with nozzles displaced in position from nozzles of the other nozzle arrays in an arrangement direction of the nozzles. A controller is configured to reduce an amount of ink to be ejected to a pixel at an end portion of an image on one side in the arrangement direction from a nozzle array of the plurality of nozzle arrays having a nozzle protruding to the one side the most among the nozzles of the nozzle arrays for a same ejection target pixel.
US08777357B2	Image and printhead control A method of preparing a two-dimensional bit-mapped image is disclosed in which the image has n pixels per row for printing using one or more printheads each having a row of ejection locations. Each ejection location has associated ejection electrodes to which a voltage is applied sufficient to cause particulate agglomerations to be formed from within a body of printing fluid. In order to cause charged particulate agglomerations to be ejected as printed droplets from selected ejection locations, voltage pulses of predetermined amplitude and duration, as determined by the respective bit values of the individual pixels of rows of the image, are applied to the electrodes of the selected ejection locations.
US08777353B2	Method of camouflaging artifacts in high coverage areas in images to be printed A method of printing an image on a receiving medium includes increasing the number of pixels in each row of a part of the image by x pixels, resulting in the part of the image including m by n+x pixels; assigning a printing element to each added pixel; identifying pixels to which a compensating printing element of the defective printing element is assigned; changing the value of at least one identified pixel into an integer value greater than zero; increasing the first printer resolution in the main-scanning direction to a second printer resolution by multiplying the first printer resolution in the main-scanning direction with a factor equal to (n+x)/n; and printing the part of the image according to the second printer resolution in the main-scanning direction and according to the values of the pixels of the part of the image.
US08777350B2	Recording apparatus using a first recording process and a second recording process A print area is a print target region by a recording unit on a sheet (recording medium). First, in first lateral scanning, raster lines (white beads) of a base image are printed by moving a recording unit in a main scanning direction by using nozzles arranged in a sub-scanning direction and printing of total M passes is performed while shifting the recording unit for each pass in the main scanning direction and the sub-scanning direction.
US08777348B2	Fire pulse circuit and method of use A fire pulse circuit for use in an inkjet printer includes an input control signal transmitted from a controller to a logic AND gate and to fire truncation logic; fire truncation logic adapted to truncate a pulse width of the input control signal to a maximum allowable pulse width if the duration of the pulse exceeds a maximum allowable time; a logic AND gate that receives inputs from both the input control signal and the fire truncation logic to produce an output fire pulse signal that operates to optimally fire an inkjet heater driver logic to heat the heater to nucleate ink from the print head. The circuit is formed from either a combination of digital and analog components or from exclusively digital components. A method of using the circuit to generate an output fire pulse to an inkjet heater driver logic is also disclosed.
US08777345B2	Bronzing index value calculation method, bronzing index value calculation device, and printing device Calculating a difference between a hue angle of a colorimetric value of a printed object with respect to diffuse reflection and the hue angle of a colorimetric value of the printed object with respect to specular reflection, calculating the difference between a standard chroma with respect to an observational light source and the chroma of the colorimetric value of the printed object with respect to specular reflection under the observational light source, and calculating a bronzing index value on the basis of a value obtained by multiplying the calculated difference of the hue angles by the calculated difference of the chromas.
US08777343B2	Image processor, image processing method and inkjet printer involving a print head with parallel nozzle arrays There is provided an image processing method in which in a full line type inkjet printer using a connecting head having an overlap region, even if a conveyance direction of a print medium is more or less inclined, a density change or degradation of graininess is not introduced. Therefore, an image data in a non-overlap region is distributed to a plurality of nozzle arrays such that ink is ejected from all the plurality of the nozzle arrays. On the other hand, a region where a print allowance rate changes in the overlap region is divided into plural regions, and the image data is distributed to the plurality of the nozzle arrays such that these regions are located to be shifted.
US08777342B2	Ink container and image forming apparatus Disclosed is an ink container rotatable to take a first position and a second position, including an ink reservoir containing ink; and first and second detecting sensors connected to a detecting unit that determines whether the ink reservoir contains a predetermined amount of the ink based on current flowing through the first and second detecting sensors. The first and second detecting sensors are provided to face directions different from each other such that whether the ink reservoir contains a first predetermined amount of the ink for the first position is determined based on whether the first detecting sensor contacts the ink when the ink container takes the first position, and whether the ink reservoir contains a second predetermined amount of the ink for the second position is determined based on whether the second detecting sensor contacts the ink when the ink container takes the second position.
US08777338B2	Storage system A storage system for storing contents is provided. The storage system includes a retractable vertical cabinet having a handle, at least a first and second pivoting support member pivotally attached to at least an exterior side of the retractable vertical cabinet and a support structure. The storage system further includes a lift adjuster and a rotating adjustment screw threadably connected allowing for adjustment of a lift assist mechanism, which is connected to the first pivoting support member and the lift adjuster, to accommodate for varied loads.
US08777337B2	Chain drive assembly and work machine The present disclosure relates to a chain drive assembly for a work machine, in particular for a crawler-mounted crane or a crawler excavator, having a drive crawler track, at least one displaceably supported sprocket wheel, in particular a guide wheel or idler wheel, and at least one tensioning device to tension the crawler track, wherein at least one abutment is provided which bounds the displacement of the displaceably supported sprocket wheel. The present disclosure further relates to a work machine, in particular to a crawler-mounted crane or a crawler excavator, having such a chain drive assembly.
US08777330B2	Bicycle axle assembly A bicycle axle assembly has a nut member that includes a first part and a second part. The first part has an internal thread. The second part has a projection that is arranged to engage a dropout of a bicycle frame. The first and second parts have first and second anti-rotational structures, respectively, that move relative to each other between an engaged position, in which the first and second parts are non-rotatably engaged relative to each other by the first and second anti-rotational structures, and a disengaged position, in which the first and second mating anti-rotational structures are disengaged such that the first and second parts rotate relative to each other.
US08777329B2	Wheel carrier of a motor vehicle A wheel carrier for a motor vehicle in which the wheel carrier is typically manufactured from aluminum. The wheel carrier comprises a recess (1) for receiving an outer ring (2) of a wheel bearing (3). An inner ring (4) of the wheel bearing (3) is fixed in a hub (15) of a wheel flange (12) of a vehicle axle. An axial end of the outer ring (2) of the wheel bearing (3) abuts against a shoulder of the wheel carrier (6), and a rim section (5) of the wheel carrier (6) is at least partially deformed to abut an opposite axial end of the outer ring (2) of the wheel bearing (3).
US08777328B2	Rim for a bicycle wheel and bicycle wheel comprising such a rim A rim (1) for a bicycle wheel, having a body (5) with a substantially annular extension and a radially outer portion (6a) shaped for coupling with a tire is disclosed. The radially outer portion (6a) includes an annular bottom wall (12) provided with a hole for an inflation valve, and the annular bottom wall (12) defines a central annular recess (20) and two side annular portions (24) arranged on axially opposite sides with respect to the central annular recess (20). The recess (20) includes, on at least one side, and in at least one circumferentially distal area from the hole with reference to a cross section of the rim (1), a radially inner surface (26) and a radially outer surface (28). The radially outer surface (28) has a different bending radius than that of the radially inner surface (26).
US08777326B2	Pick with hardened core assembly A pick assembly comprising a pick body comprising a shank opposite a front end. The shank may be configured for attachment to a driving mechanism while the front end may comprise a core assembly disposed within an axial bore of the front end. The core assembly may comprise a cutting element bonded to a substrate attached to a bolster disposed within a sleeve which is disposed within the axial bore.
US08777324B2	Composite bodied trailer A dump bed assembly (18) is provided for coupling to a truck having a chassis (22) for supporting the dump bed assembly (18). The dump bed assembly (18) includes a cargo receiving dump bed (13) coupled to the chassis (22) and movable between a travel configuration and a dump configuration. The dump bed includes a metal skeletal frame (85) including a plurality of frame members that define a plurality of openings (171) between the frame members. A plastic bed (90) comprises at least one plastic bed member coupled to and supported by the plurality of frame members. The plastic bed member extends into the openings defined by the frame members.
US08777317B2	Adjustable armrest device An armrest device including a stationary shaft 2, fixed to a seat frame, an armrest body 7 in which the stationary shaft 2 is inserted and which is rotatable, a lock spring 3 made of a coil spring tightly wound around the stationary shaft 2, with one end of the coil spring serving as a stationary-side hook 3a locked to the armrest body 7, and the other end of the coil spring serving as a free-side hook 3b A hook-supporting part 12 that supports the free-side hook 3b such that the free-side hook 3b is raised in the axial direction of the stationary shaft 2, a hook-fitting part 13 that enlarges the diameter of the lock spring 3 by dropping the free-side hook 3b on the hook-supporting part 12 downward in the axial direction of the stationary shaft 2, a plate 11 for a hook, where the plate 11 projects from the armrest body 7, and a cam member 5 on the stationary shaft 2. The cam member 5 having (1) an unlocking cam part 5b for unlocking the lock spring 3 by dropping the free-side hook 3b from the hook-supporting part 12 into the hook-fitting part 13 when the armrest body 7 is rotated in the armrest-accommodating direction, and (2) a relocking cam part 5c for locking the lock spring 3 by raising the free-side hook 3b from the hook-fitting part 13 and supporting it by the hook-supporting part 12 when the armrest body 7 is rotated in the armrest-use direction.
US08777315B2	High back seat latch with integrated handle The present invention teaches a high handle seat latch incorporated into a rotating seatback including a body integrated into the seatback and exhibiting a rear facing hook engaging a package shelf supported striker in an upright design position. A lift handle is supported at an upper end of the body and is accessible from a top of the seatback. A linkage interconnects the handle with the hook and is responsive to upward rotation of the handle to rotate the hook to a striker release and forward dump position. A cable actuates the linkage independent of the lift handle to actuate the hook to the release position.
US08777309B2	Lumbar support for a vehicle backrest A lumbar support for a vehicle backrest has a rest member with a front surface shaped to support an area of a user's back, and an elastic member behind the rest member; the elastic member has an intermediate portion fixed to the rest member and two opposite ends fixed connected to a backrest frame, maintains the rest member in a rest position and can deform in response to a thrust of the user's back so as to let the rest member move between the rest position and a first position under normal conditions, and then abruptly towards a second position when a thrust of a user's back exceeds a given force value; the force/displacement curve of the elastic member has a slope which is between zero and a given threshold in the section between the first and the second positions, the threshold being equal to 0.5 [N/mm].
US08777307B2	Cup holder Disclosed herein is a cup-holding device configured to be retrofitted to an seat arm or other horizontal support structure. The cup-holding device has a basket in a seat-mounting portion wherein there is sufficient rigidity of the structure to hold a cup or similar small item(s).
US08777305B1	Multifunction chair convertible from office chair to floor rocker and stool A multifunction chair with a floor rocker detachable from a base that is usable as a stool. The floor rocker and base are readily attached and detached by means of a quick-release mechanism having first and second couplers on the floor rocker and the seat plate of the base, respectively. The first coupler includes a rearward projection from a cross-member on the rocker and has left and right side latch mechanisms below the rear portion of the seat of the rocker, the latch mechanisms each having a laterally movable latch bolt. The second coupler is an integral part of the seat plate.
US08777303B2	Shading system and method for assembling a shading system A shading system is provided, such as an overhead shading system for a panoramic window of a motor vehicle, which includes, but is not limited to a holding frame for attachment to a motor vehicle body. The holding frame exhibits a cross member, a first longitudinal member joined with the cross member, and a second longitudinal member joined with the cross member, a transverse strip guided so that it can slide from the first longitudinal member and second longitudinal member in order to activate a shading device coupled with the cross member and transverse strip, such as a roller blind or window shade, for at least partially covering a window opening bordered by the holding frame and transverse strip, and a guide connected with the holding frame, in particular a guiding rope.
US08777301B2	Instrument panel arrangement An instrument panel arrangement for a motor vehicle is provided. The instrument panel arrangement includes an instrument panel and a ventilation duct housing connected to the instrument panel. A middle region of the ventilation duct housing has, in an impact direction, a flexibility that is at least as great as 0.8 times a flexibility of the instrument panel.
US08777300B2	Shock absorber housing supporting apparatus for vehicle A shock absorber housing supporting apparatus for a vehicle installed in a front body including a shock absorber housing disposed between a fender apron upper member provided in an upper portion of a fender apron and a front side member provided in a length direction of a vehicle body and having a beam shape, and a cowl connected to a front side of a front glass and having a panel shape, may include a first supporting device connecting the front side member and the fender apron upper member and covering the shock absorber housing in between them, and a second supporting device connecting the front side member and the cowl and covering the shock absorber housing in therebetween.
US08777298B2	Motor vehicle with water chamber A motor vehicle having a windshield and a water chamber extending at the base of the windshield and having a joint. The water chamber is surrounded on at least a portion of its length on the underside by a channel that is at least superficially impermeable to water.
US08777294B2	Device for cover support A device for container cover support with spat, spar shaft, and spar shaft rotation lock. Rotation of the spar shaft along a non-vertical axis located along the outer surface of the container sidewall causes the spar to rotate upward and alternatively to uncover the container.
US08777291B2	Motorcycle windscreen and fairing system using same A wind screen adapted for use with a motorcycle fairing. The windscreen may be adapted to be removed from the fairing. The windscreen may have a physical configuration adapted to reduce wind on a rider sitting in a more upright position, and to minimize flutter of the windscreen. The windscreen may be adapted to mount in a plurality of configurations.
US08777290B1	Vehicle dashboard instrument assembly A vehicle dashboard instrument assembly includes a gauge faceplate having front and rear faces and a gauge-receiving opening extending through the gauge faceplate from the front face to the rear face, a gauge, a bracket, and a collar. The collar is applied directly against the front face of the gauge faceplate to encircle the gauge-receiving opening, a front end of the gauge is applied to the gauge-receiving opening to locate an outer rim of the gauge directly against the collar, and locate a measurement display of the gauge for viewing near the gauge-receiving opening. The gauge extends rearwardly from the rear face of the gauge faceplate to the rear end of the gauge, and the bracket is coupled between the gauge and the rear face of the gauge faceplate to clamp the collar between the outer rim of the gauge and the front face of the gauge faceplate.
US08777283B2	Hands-free waste collection and disposal device and method of use A hands-free waste collection and disposal device and a method of use are disclosed herein. The disclosed device generally comprises a waste receptacle and a collection tool. The waste receptacle includes an elongated handle, a waste receiving member attached to a second end of the elongated handle, and retractable members connected to the waste receiving member, wherein the retractable members are movable between a bag-supporting position and a bag-release position. The collection tool includes an elongated handle, a rake head connected to a second end of the elongated handle, and a scraper member attached to a rear face of the rake head.
US08777281B2	Outside handle device for vehicle door An outside handle device for a vehicle door is provided which comprises a base mounted on a vehicle door, an operating handle extending lengthwise in a fore-and-aft direction of a vehicle, and a support member assembled to the base while pivotably supporting a supported part formed in one end part, in a longitudinal direction, of the operating handle, wherein the support member pivotably supported on the base so as to be pivotable between a pre-assembly holding position and an assembly completion position is formed so as to be held by the base so that at the pre-assembly holding position the support member can pivot toward the assembly completion position in response to a pressing force acting from the operating handle accompanying an operation of assembling the operating handle, and so as to pivotably clasp the supported part and be engaged with and fixed to the base at the assembly completion position when pivoting accompanying a pressing force acting from the operating handle from the pre-assembly holding position to the assembly completion position. This enables the work efficiency for assembly of the operating handle to be enhanced.
US08777278B2	Flange assembly with improved serviceability The invention is directed at joint assembly which includes a first part and a second part to be assembled together. The first and second part are secured together via a set of fasteners and a set of attachment portions. The set of attachment portions cooperate with one of the first or second parts and receive the set of fasteners.
US08777276B2	Ferrule with internal recess and cylindrical wall A ferrule for a metal tube fitting includes an annular body having a generally cylindrical radially interior wall extending through the center of the ferrule. An outer radial wall extends from the ferrule front end to a rearward flange portion of the annular body. The outer radial wall has: a first tapered portion extending from the ferrule front end with an increasing radial dimension towards the rearward flange portion, the first tapered portion extending to a crown portion, the crown portion including a convex surface that tapers radially inwardly towards the rearward flange portion.
US08777275B2	Fluid transfer connection device, circuit incorporating it and its mounting/demounting A connection device including a tubular male termination, a connecting means adapted to be mounted around and accommodated in a groove of the female termination, and a locking member for locking these means in the female termination to be mounted around the male termination to reversibly move these means into a locking position in the groove. The device includes means for immobilizing and releasing the locking member that are rigidly fastened to the male termination, these means being adapted to prevent the connecting means from being moved to the locking position unless the male termination occupies a predetermined insertion position in the female termination and, only if the male termination has reached that position, to release the locking member, while allowing its movement toward the female termination so that a thrust on this member moves the connecting means into the locking position.
US08777270B2	Water splash preventing apparatus for vehicle A water splash preventing apparatus for a vehicle is provided, where the water splash preventing apparatus is disposed on a mudguard of the vehicle to prevent water splash. The water splash preventing apparatus includes a porous panel and a plurality of pockets, where the porous panel has a plurality of apertures and allows water to enter the aperture. The plurality of pockets are disposed in the porous panel to allow water to drop to an open space thereunder. Here, water splashed from a tire passes through the aperture and then drops down by colliding with an inner side of the mudguard and simultaneously bouncing off the pocket.
US08777268B2	Reversible belt tensioner for vehicle occupant restraint systems The invention relates to a reversible belt tensioner (10) comprising a drive motor (12), a spindle (14) connected to the drive motor (12), a spindle nut (16) adapted to be displaced in axial direction (18) on the spindle (14), a catch (20) the one end of which is connected to the spindle nut (16) and a belt buckle (22) connected to the other end of the catch (20), wherein at least one of the following features prevents the spindle nut (16) from jamming during travel against block: a cylindrical guiding portion (50) inside the spindle nut (16) interacting with the outer geometry of the spindle (14); a freewheel mechanism (48) between the drive motor (12) and the spindle (14); a compression spring (70) between the belt buckle (22) and a stop.
US08777266B2	Steering device First and second lower support mechanisms (27, 28): are each provided with a coil spring (66, 86) that is mated to the outer periphery of an axle part (59, 79) of a fulcrum bolt (53, 73); and are configured in such a manner that support brackets (51, 71) are able to rock with respect to a steering column (5) by compressing the coil springs (66, 86). The coil springs (66, 86) are formed in such a manner that the axle parts (59, 79) are force fitted in a state prior to column-side fastening parts (55, 75) being fastened to the steering column (5).
US08777264B2	Steering column assembly for a motor vehicle A steering column assembly for a motor vehicle is provided. The steering column assembly may include a main steering column shaft; a first tubular member; a first attachment feature; and a second attachment feature. The first attachment feature and the second attachment feature may be formed of an injection moldable material such as nylon or polypropylene, having a load glass fiber component. The first and second attachment features are injection molded about the main steering column shaft. A method of constructing a steering column assembly for a motor vehicle is also provided, wherein the first attachment feature and the second attachment feature are injection molded and positioned about the main steering column shaft.
US08777261B2	Restraint device, in particular for a motor vehicle A restraint device for a motor vehicle includes a support structure with a plurality of structural elements in which the support structure can be moved from a stowage position into a restraint position. The restraint device also includes a covering by means of which a restraint volume formed by the support structure in its restraint position is surrounded. At least one support element is provided by means of which at least one of the structural elements of the support structure is held in a predetermined form and/or position at least in the restraint position.
US08777258B2	Gas generator for restraining apparatus The invention provides a gas generator for a restraining apparatus, including: a housing an ignition device, and a gas generating agent accommodated in the housing, and a cup-shaped container having a flame-transferring hole in a circumferential wall and being disposed on a tubular igniter-fixing portion of the housing to form an ignition device chamber accommodating the ignition device, the cup-shaped container having a plurality of protruding portions protruding inward in the radial direction from the circumferential wall portion, the tubular igniter-fixing portion having a recess on an outer surface, at least a distal end portion of the protruding portion engaging with an inner wall surface of the recess to block an axial movement of the cup-shaped container.
US08777252B2	Basket device for a foldable stroller A basket device is used for a foldable stroller including front and rear support units. The rear support unit includes two rear support frames. The basket device includes two pivot members secured respectively to the rear support frames, two clamping members disposed respectively and rotatably on the pivot members, a curved frame, and a basket body made of a soft material. Each of the clamping members defines a passage. The curved frame has two opposite end portions extending respectively through the passages in the clamping members. The basket body has a front end fastened to the front support unit, and a rear end portion sleeved fixedly on the curved frame, such that the curved frame is generally horizontal.
US08777246B2	Compressed air supply system and control method A compressed air supply assembly for operating a pneumatic assembly includes a compressed air supply; a compressed air connection to the pneumatic assembly; a purge connection to the environment; a pneumatic main line between the compressed air supply and the compressed air connection comprising an air dryer; a purge line between the compressed air connection and the purge connection; and a solenoid valve arrangement with a control valve to control a purge valve. The control valve is connected to a control valve connection in a pneumatic control line connected to a pressure control connection of the purge valve; and the purge valve is connected to a purge valve connection in the purge line. A pressure-maintaining device is connected to the pneumatic control line and maintains control pressure at the pressure control connection when the purge valve connection is open, independently of pressure in the purge line and/or the main line.
US08777245B2	Optimized wall thickness torque rod A torque rod assembly includes a pair of end joint assemblies with a thin wall connecting tube disposed between them. The end joint assemblies each include an eye which is friction welded to the thin wall connecting tube. The use of the thin wall connecting tube and the friction welding process allow the friction weld to be located immediately adjacent a bore extending through the eye. The eyes and the thin wall connecting tube can be cast, extruded or formed from steel, aluminum or cast iron.
US08777243B1	Golf cart front wheel direction adjustment device A front wheel direction adjustment device for a golf cart having a front wheel includes an axle, an adjustment shaft assembly, and a rotating shaft assembly. The axle is mounted on the front wheel. The adjustment shaft assembly is coupled to the first portion of the axle. The rotating shaft assembly is coupled to the second portion of the axle, wherein the adjustment shaft assembly comprises a first supporting tube, a first sleeve, a first adjustment member, and a locking bolt, wherein the first supporting tube has two elongated locking slots spacedly and longitudinally forming at two sides of a lower end of the supporting tube respectively, wherein the first supporting tube is partially and securely received in the first sleeve, wherein the rotating shaft assembly comprises a second supporting tube, a second sleeve, and a blocking member.
US08777241B1	Suspension component with tapered spindle joint A suspension component assembly having a knuckle that attaches to the suspension system providing a generally vertical support from which a generally transverse cantilevered spindle may extend. The knuckle defines a tapered spindle-bore and the spindle has a tapered portion extending from a cantilever portion at least partially disposed within the tapered spindle-bore. The tapered portion of the knuckle disposed in the tapered spindle-bore provide a tapered joint which distributes the loads between the adjoining surfaces of the joint caused by the moment placed on the spindle by vehicle weight more effectively than a non-tapered spindle disposed in a non-tapered spindle-bore.
US08777240B2	Wheeled sport apparatus, as for training and recreation A wheeled sport apparatus may comprise a platform and first and second sets of wheels disposed on the platform. Each set of wheels may include a center wheel between two outboard wheels and the outboard wheels may be toed outward for defining a turning radius. One or more carrier wheels may be provided between the first and second sets of wheels.
US08777237B2	Convertible creeper assembly A creeper assembly is provided that includes a frame assembly supported on a plurality of wheels for movement along a support surface. The frame assembly includes a seat and a backrest that extends from the seat. The frame assembly is adjustable between a lowered lying position, wherein the seat and the backrest are in a horizontal position at a first height above the support surface, and a raised seated position, wherein the seat is in a horizontal position at a second height above the support surface and the backrest is inclined in an upright position relative to the seat. An actuator is provided on the frame assembly that is operable for adjusting the frame assembly between the lowered lying position and the raised seated position.
US08777234B2	Control arm skate A control arm skate of synthetic material facilitates movement of a disabled vehicle. A sliding block has two inclined ends facilitating sliding of the block in opposite directions with a disabled vehicle thereon without further damage to the vehicle or support surface over which it is moved. An upper block face is configured to receive a vehicle part so pulling of the vehicle draws the block with it, sliding over a surface while bearing vehicle weight.
US08777228B2	Metal sealing adjustable casing sub An adjustable casing sub having an outer housing, an inner housing insertable into the outer housing, and a ratcheting system for coupling the inner housing within the outer housing. An annulus is between a portion of the inner and outer housing, the annulus including an inwardly tapered section. A metal faced seal is disposed in the annulus, wherein the metal faced seal includes a sliding surface and a compressive sealing surface. The sliding surface may include a malleable inlay and the compressive sealing surface may include a spring like element. Moreover, the metal faced seal radial thickness is greater than the inwardly tapered section radial thickness.
US08777227B2	Apparatus and methods for organizing and playing a game Systems and methods of organizing and conducting games are set forth herein. One method of organizing and conducting a game comprises steps of arranging a plurality of contestants within a predefined adventurous area, and providing a plurality of items, each item having a distinct identifying characteristic. An ultralight with a programmable ejection system launches the plurality of items into the adventurous area through the air according to a predetermined routine. The contestants are allowed to search for and collect the items launched by the ultralight within the adventurous area before the game ends. Means are provided for correlating the identifying characteristic of each item to a prize, and each contestant is allowed to retain the prize correlating to the identifying characteristic of the item that was collected by the contestant.
US08777226B1	Proxy target system A proxy target system provides, in the exemplary embodiment, a plurality of cover barriers and proxy barriers. Each cover barrier is sized and configured for allowing at least one shooter to selectively take cover therebehind. Each proxy barrier is associated with a corresponding one of the cover barriers. Each of the cover barriers provides a means for tracking the associated shooter when positioned therebehind. Relatedly, each of the proxy barriers provides an at least one target positioned therebehind and configured for mimicking the movement and exposure of the shooter relative to the associated cover barrier. Thus, with the proxy barriers positioned a distance downrange from the corresponding cover barriers, two or more shooters may position themselves behind respective cover barriers and engage in a shootout with one another by shooting at each other's downrange targets rather than directly at one another, thereby eliminating any risk of injury or death.
US08777223B2	Game of roulette A method for a roulette game played by at least one player and a roulette wheel and ball to cooperate with the roulette wheel to indicate a winning number may include the steps of: providing a first area to provide a winning number only based on the winning number indicated by the ball in the roulette wheel in a first operation of the ball and roulette wheel; providing a second area defining a group of winning numbers to provide the player to advance to a second operation of the ball and roulette wheel which would provide another chance for a winning number.
US08777220B2	Sheet feeding device and sheet feeding method In general, in a sheet feeding device of embodiments, a shaft connects through an one-way clutch structure to a conveying roller, rotates in a first direction and a second direction opposite to the first direction, transmits the torque to the conveying roller to cause the conveying roller to rotate in the first direction if the shaft rotates in the first direction. The shaft does not transmit the torque to the conveying roller if the shaft rotates in the second direction. The shaft limits the rotation of the conveying roller in the second direction while the shaft is in a rotation-stop state. A controller has a second mode in which the shaft is rotated in a second direction to allow rotation of the conveying roller in the second direction.
US08777219B2	Sheet conveyance apparatus and image forming apparatus A sheet conveyance apparatus includes a control unit which controls the operation of a registration roller shift motor so as to perform positional deviation correction based on the detection result of a contact image sensor (CIS) configured to detect positional deviation in the width direction of a sheet. When the amount by which the registration roller shift motor moves the registration roller in the width direction exceeds an upper limit value, the control unit limits the movement amount by which the registration roller shift motor moves the registration roller in the width direction.
US08777213B2	Recording medium storage cassette and image forming apparatus including the same In a sheet feeding cassette (10), wall portions (25a to 25d) are provided upright at four peripheral end portions of a cassette base (25). Of the wall portions (25a to 25d), the wall portion (25a) positioned on a downstream side in a sheet feeding direction has a first notch portion (41) formed at a substantially center portion in a longitudinal direction of the wall portion (25a), the first notch portion (41) facing a feeding roller (30a) provided on an image forming apparatus (100) main body side.
US08777212B2	Medium feeding device A medium feeding device 1 includes a feeding roller 3 which conveys a medium S1 in a conveying direction, a brake roller 4 that is arranged to press the feeding roller 3 with a predetermined pressure, and a separating power generating device 7 which is connected to the brake roller 4 and generates rotational load in a direction counter to the conveying direction with respect to the brake roller 4. The separating power generating device 7 includes a torque limiter 19 which generates an upper limit torque T1 which is a fixed load as a first load generating unit, and an electromagnetic brake 23 which can change the generated load as a second load generating unit. The torque limiter 19 and the electromagnetic brake 23 are connected in parallel to the brake roller 4.
US08777209B2	Paper feeder, control method thereof and image forming apparatus having the same A paper feeder, a control method thereof, and an image forming apparatus having the same are provided. The paper feeder includes a moving member to push paper loaded on one paper loader to another empty paper loader. With regard to operation of the moving member, the stop time of the moving member may be variable based on a paper size input by a user, which enables a stop position of the moving member to be automatically adjusted based on the paper size, resulting in enhanced user convenience.
US08777207B2	Printing apparatus, control method thereof and storage medium storing program This invention relates to a printing apparatus and control method thereof. The standard size of an envelope to be stored in each of a plurality of paper storage units configured to store an envelope to be used in printing is set. An offset amount to be used to print an image on an envelope of the set standard size is set. A paper storage unit which stores an envelope to be used in printing is selected from the plurality of paper storage units based on a standard size of an envelope that is designated by a user. The position of an image is shifted in accordance with the set offset amount, and the image is printed on an envelope fed from the selected paper storage unit.
US08777206B1	Bucket holder/mixer system A platform is adapted to hold a bucket of paint. A pedal has a hinge coupled to the platform. A post has a lower end secured to the platform. A linkage has upper, lower, and central pins. The central pin pivotally couples the linkage to the post adjacent to the upper end. In this manner arcuate movement of the linkage about the central pin is facilitated. A connector couples the upper pin and the pedal. A spring couples the central pin and the pedal. A flexible strap is in a generally circular configuration. The strap is positionable around the bucket. The strap has a fixed end secured to the post. The strap has a free end coupled to the lower pin. In this manner lateral movement with the lower pin is allowed.
US08777201B2	Clamp comprising a multi-part guide path Clamp for mechanical parts such as tubes or pipes, comprising a flange (5) with parts (13A, 13B, 13C) connected to one another so as to be pivotable as far as a closed position in which they are continuous. A locking device may be actuated when the flange is closed. The clamp further comprises supports (55; 57) by which rails (49) are connected to the parts with limited freedom of relative movement. The adjacent end faces of the rails have mating surfaces forming a connection by positive locking, which is active in the vicinity of the closed position. Each connection guides the end faces relative to one another into a working position in which the rails (49) form a guide path for tools, and helps to maintain this position when the clamping device is actuated.
US08777199B2	Hydraulic clamping device A hydraulic clamping device comprises clamping piece supported in a structure. In addition, the clamping device comprises a hydraulic cylinder having a longitudinal axis and including a cylinder housing fixedly connected to the structure. Further, the clamping device comprises an intermediate piece axially disposed between the piston and the clamping piece. The hydraulic cylinder is adapted to exert a force along the longitudinal axis against the clamping piece.
US08777195B2	Non-linear torsion spring assembly Disclosed and claimed herein are spiral torsion springs, non-linear torsion springs, and non-linear torsion spring assemblies. These devices are useful in damping applications, orthotic joint applications and servo control applications.
US08777194B2	Spiral spring assembly An object of the present invention is to provide a spiral spring assembly that is capable of suppressing lateral force generated in a central shaft. A spiral spring assembly (1) includes a central shaft (2), a spiral spring (3) that is disposed on the periphery of the central shaft (2) and includes an outer end (3a), an inner end (3b), and a spiral portion (3c) that connects the outer end (3a) and the inner end (3b) in a spiral form; an inner end fixing member (4) to which the inner end (3b) is fixed so as to be capable of transmitting torque; and an outer end fixing member (5) to which the outer end (3a) is fixed, and which is capable of moving relative to the inner end fixing member (4) within a predetermined section extending from a first state to a second state. The outer end (3a) is fixed to the outer end fixing member (5) so as to be capable of transmitting torque and suppressing a lateral force that is generated in the central shaft (2) in a predetermined state within the predetermined section.
US08777191B2	Energy absorption and distribution material An energy absorbing and transmitting material comprising a framework of interconnected units comprising at least one unit having a base and a protrusion or cone extending from the base along an axis, and at least one connecting member or rod that connects the unit to at least one adjacent unit, the connecting members extending substantially perpendicular to the axis of the unit from the base, where the framework is comprised of a single elastic material throughout, or configured so that when the framework is perturbed by tilting the unit towards the adjacent unit, the adjacent unit is tilted towards the unit.
US08777186B2	Protective assembly and method for mounting same, upright and sleeve of such a protective assembly The protection kit comprises at least one post comprising at least one side opening, at least one rail, and at least one sleeve comprising at least one deformable tab. The sleeve is operable to receive a rail within its interior and to enter a side opening with deformation of at least one tab. Preferably, at least one opening is fitted with a tooth and the tab is deformable elastically and comprises an opening to receive the tooth. The insertion of a sleeve into the opening of the post causes the tab to deform until the tooth is located in the opening of the tab and the insertion of the rail into the interior of the sleeve restrains the tab.

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