Document Document Title
US08784907B2 Compositions and methods for improving the appearance of aging hair
A hair care composition and method of using the composition is provided that can increase the appearance of thicker and/or fuller hair and/or delay the appearance of gray hair to provide healthy and younger looking hair.
US08784899B2 Compositions and methods for cancer treatment
The present invention relates to compositions comprising a vitamin E analog and an arsenic compound for treating hyperproliferative cells disorders such as cancer. The composition of the invention potentiates arsenic toxicity towards cancer cells and can also prevent arsenic-mediated toxicity of non-cancerous cells.
US08784896B2 Antioxidant therapy with a whole, leech saliva extract
Methods are provided for isolating and using a whole-saliva leech extract. The methods can include feeding a phagostimulatory agent to a leech; inducing a regurgitation in the leech, the inducing including placing the leech in an environment having a temperature of less than about 0° C.; and, collecting an unrefined, whole saliva in the regurgitation of the cooled leech. The methods can include revitalizing the leech by warming it at a temperature ranging from about 5° C. to about 40° C. Stable, lyophilized, whole-saliva extracts of a leech are also provided, the extract having a stable activity when stored for use at a temperature below about −20° C., the extract maintaining at least 70% of the activity for at least 6 months. The extracts can be used to treat solid tumors, treat liquid tumors, treat diabetes, treat a viral disease, treat a parasitic disease, treat an antibacterial disease, or serve as an anti-oxidant.
US08784888B2 Controlled release and taste masking oral pharmaceutical composition
Controlled release and taste masking compositions containing one or more active principles inglobated in a three-component matrix structure, i.e. a structure formed by successive amphiphilic, lipophilic or inert matrices and finally inglobated or dispersed in hydrophilic matrices. The use of a plurality of systems for the control of the dissolution of the active ingredient modulates the dissolution rate of the active ingredient in aqueous and/or biological fluids, thereby controlling the release kinetics in the gastrointestinal tract.
US08784879B2 Transdermal administration of tamsulosin
In an aspect of the invention, a composition for making a patch for the transdermal delivery of tamsulosin is provided. The composition comprises (a) at least about 1 wt % tamsulosin or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt of tamsulosin, (b) at least about 40 wt % polyisobutylene adhesive or hydrophobic synthetic rubber adhesive, (c) about 1-20 wt % of an aprotic solvent in which tamsulosin dissolves readily, (d) about 1-20 wt % of an unsaturated fatty acid or an alpha-hydroxy acid or a mixture of unsaturated fatty acids or alpha-hydroxy acids or of both unsaturated fatty acids and alpha-hydroxy acids, (e) a lipophilic permeation enhancer, and (f) a matrix modifier.
US08784878B2 Transdermal delivery rate control using amorphous pharmaceutical compositions
A pharmaceutical composition for transdermal delivery comprising one or more physiologically active agents; one or more dermal penetration enhancers; and a volatile pharmaceutically acceptable carrier comprising a volatile solvent; and wherein the physiologically active agent and dermal penetration enhancer form an amorphous deposit upon evaporation of the volatile carrier, said amorphous deposit forming a reservoir within the stratum corneum; and (A) wherein the composition has a release rate profile of physiologically active agent so as to provide a ratio of the maximum concentration (Cmax) to the average concentration (Cavg) for the physiologically active agent over the dosage interval within the range of 1 to 10.
US08784876B2 Clay-based hemostatic agents and devices for the delivery thereof
A device for promoting the clotting of blood comprises a clay material in particle form and a receptacle for containing the clay material. At least a portion of the receptacle is defined by a mesh. Another device comprises a gauze substrate and a clay material disposed on the gauze substrate. Another device is a bandage comprising a substrate, a mesh mounted on the substrate, and particles of a clay material retained in the mesh. A hemostatic sponge comprises a substrate, a hemostatic material disposed on a first surface of the substrate, and a release agent disposed on a second surface of the substrate. The release agent is disposed on the wound-contacting surface of the substrate. When treating a bleeding wound, application of the hemostatic sponge causes at least a portion of the hemostatic material to come into contact with blood through the release agent and through the substrate.
US08784873B2 Use of histone deacetylase inhibitors in changing MRJP3 protein in royal jelly
The invention provides a method of changing a ratio of 68 to 64 kDa protein of MRJP3 in a royal jelly, a method of producing a royal jelly comprising MRJP3 having a changed ratio of 68 to 64 kDa protein relative to a control royal jelly and the royal jelly produced thereform. Also provided is a method of promoting the growth of the larva of a queen bee comprising feeding the larva of the queen bee a royal jelly of the invention. Further provided is a method of producing bee larva, pupa and queen bees with sizes larger than normal.
US08784872B2 Formulation for decreasing tobacco, alcohol, drug or food consumption
Formulations have been developed which assist individuals having an addiction such as smoking to reduce or quit engaging in the addictive behavior. Representative behaviors include smoking, excessive alcohol or food ingestion, drug addiction, and ingestion of caffeine or junk food providing quick “highs”. The formulations assist the smoker to become dissatisfied with smoking, until he or she willingly gives up the habit or at least cuts down on the number of cigarettes smoked per day as an initial step towards quitting in the future. The formulations can also be used in conjunction with other known formulations, such as nicotine gum or patch. The formulations contain hydrophilic polymers, for example, polyethylene glycol (PEG) alone or in combination or polyvinyl pyrrolidone (PVP) (also known as povidone or polyvidone alone or in combination.), sweeteners and/or flavorings, viscosity modifiers/binders, and pH or buffering agents.
US08784866B2 Water-soluble carbon nanotube compositions for drug delivery and medicinal applications
Compositions comprising a plurality of functionalized carbon nanotubes and at least one type of payload molecule are provided herein. The compositions are soluble in water and PBS in some embodiments. In certain embodiments, the payload molecules are insoluble in water. Methods are described for making the compositions and administering the compositions. An extended release formulation for paclitaxel utilizing functionalized carbon nanotubes is also described.
US08784853B2 Stabilization of household, body-care and food products by using benzotropolone containing plant extracts and/or related benzotropolone derivatives
Disclosed is the use of benzotropolone derivatives of formula (1), wherein R1, R2 and R7 independently from each other are hydrogen; C1-C3alkyl; or COR8; R3 is hydrogen; or COOR9 R4 is hydrogen; or C1-C3alkyl; R5 is hydrogen; hydroxy; C1-C3-alkoxy; or -0-(CO)—R10; R6 is hydrogen; C1-C3alkyl; or COR8; or R5 and R6 together may form a five or six membered ring; or R6 and R7 together form a five or six membered ring; and R8, R9, R10 independently of each other are C1-C30alkyl; for protecting body-care and household products from photolytic and oxidative degradation.
US08784849B2 Hydroxyapatite-targeting poly(ethylene glycol) and related polymers
Isolatable, hydroxyapatite-targeting polymeric structures, and biologically active conjugates thereof, are provided. The polymeric structure includes a linear or branched water-soluble and non-peptidic polymer backbone, such as a PEG backbone, having at least two termini, a first terminus being covalently bonded to a hydroxyapatite-targeting moiety, such as a bisphosphonate, and a second terminus covalently bonded to a chemically reactive group, wherein said chemically reactive group is protected or unprotected. Methods of preparing and using hydroxyapatite-targeting polymeric structures, and biologically active conjugates thereof, are also provided.
US08784847B2 Synthesis of 1-amino-1,3,3,5,5,-cyclohexane mesylate
Process for manufacturing 1-amino-1,3,3,5,5-pentamethylcyclohexane mesylate comprising step (i): (i) reacting 1-amino-1,3,3,5,5-pentamethylcyclohexane with methane sulfonic acid in a solvent or a mixture of two or more solvents selected from anisole, cumene, pentane, hexane, heptane, isooctane, methyl acetate, propyl acetate, isopropyl acetate, n-butyl acetate, isobutyl acetate, methyl ethyl ketone, methyl isopropylketone, methyl isobutyl ketone, dimethyl sulphoxide, tetrahydrofuran, methyltetrahydrofuran, 1,1-diethoxypropane, 1,1-dimethoxymethane, and 2,2-dimethoxypropane.
US08784837B2 Vaccines comprising an immunostimulatory peptide and an immunostimulatory oligodeoxynucleic acid molecule
The invention refers an improved vaccine against infections with pathogens, especially viral pathogens, comprising an antigen, a peptide of the formula R1—XZSZN—XZX—R2 and an immunostimulatory deoxynucleic acid containing deoxyinosine and/or deoxyuridine residues.
US08784836B2 Microorganisms for therapy
Therapeutic methods and vaccinia virus therefor are provided. The viruses are designed so that they accumulate in immunoprivileged tissues and cells, such as in tumors and other proliferating tissue and in inflamed tissues, compared to other tissues, cells and organs, so that they exhibit relatively low toxicity to host organisms. Combinations of the viruses and anti-cancer agents and uses thereof for treating cancer also are provided.
US08784834B2 Recombinant fusion interferon for animals
A recombinant fusion interferon for animals. The recombinant fusion interferon comprises an animal interferon and a Fc region of an animal immunoglobulin G (IgG). The animal interferon and the Fc region of the animal immunoglobulin G can be further joined by a linker. A polynucleotide that encodes the recombinant fusion interferon for animals, a method for producing the recombinant fusion interferon, and the use of the recombinant fusion interferon.
US08784829B2 Lawsonia intracellularis vaccines
The present invention relates to polynucleotide sequences encoding novel Lawsonia intracellularis polypeptides. It also relates to DNA fragments, recombinant plasmid DNA and live recombinant microorganisms comprising these sequences. Moreover, the invention relates to polypeptides encoded by these nucleotide sequences. The invention also relates to immunogenic compositions for prevention of Lawsonia intracellularis infections and methods for the preparation of these immunogenic compositions. The invention also relates to diagnostic tests for the detection of Lawsonia intracellularis DNA, the detection of Lawsonia intracellularis antigens and detection of antibodies against Lawsonia intracellularis.
US08784828B2 Ehrlichia ewingii proteins, nucleic acids, and methods of their use
The novel omp-1 gene cluster encoding twenty one Ehrlichia ewingii (EE) proteins was isolated and sequenced completely. This invention relates to isolated E. ewingii (EE) polypeptides, isolated polynucleotides encoding EE polypeptides, probes, primers, isolated antibodies and methods of their production, immunogenic compositions and vaccines, as well as methods of using the EE polypeptides, antibodies, probes, and primers for the purpose of diagnosis, therapy and production of vaccines against E. ewingii.
US08784825B2 Modulators of MYC, methods of using the same, and methods of identifying agents that modulate MYC
Disclosed herein are methods of modulation of the viability of a cell. Further disclosed herein are methods of modulating an immune response. Further disclosed herein are methods of identifying agents capable of modulation of the viability of a cell or an immune response. Further disclosed herein are agents and compositions capable of modulation of the viability of a cell or an immune response.
US08784823B2 Binding proteins, including antibodies, antibody derivatives and antibody fragments, that specifically bind CD154 and uses thereof
This invention provides binding proteins, including antibodies, antibody derivatives and antibody fragments, that specifically bind a CD154 (CD40L) protein. This invention also provides a chimeric, humanized or fully human antibody, antibody derivative or antibody fragment that specifically binds to an epitope to which a humanized Fab fragment comprising a variable heavy chain sequence according to SEQ ID NO: 1 and comprising a variable light chain sequence according to SEQ ID NO: 2 specifically binds. CD154 binding proteins of this invention may elicit reduced effector function relative to a second anti-CD154 antibody. CD154 binding proteins of this invention are useful in diagnostic and therapeutic methods, such as in the treatment and prevention of diseases including those that involve undesirable immune responses that are mediated by CD154-CD40 interactions.
US08784822B2 Method and composition for treatment of renal failure with antibodies and their equivalents as partial or complete replacement for dialysis
A method for treating renal failure associated with advanced stage renal disease includes administering a soluble cytokine receptor to one or more of tumor necrosis factor alpha, interferon gamma or interleukin 6; or antibodies to one or more of interleukin 6 or interleukin 1 beta. The method can be used as a supplement to or as partial or complete replacement for dialysis. A pharmaceutical composition includes antibody or functional equivalent thereof to urea, creatinine, or both; antibody, functional equivalent or soluble cytokine receptor to tumor necrosis factor alpha, interferon gamma, interleukin 6, interleukin 1 beta or any combination thereof. The composition can be included in a kit.
US08784816B2 Antibodies which bind factor VIII
The invention, in general, features a method of treatment and/or prevention of a thrombotic pathological condition, in a mammal, which includes administering to the mammal in need of such treatment a therapeutically effective amount of a composition including an antibody directed against the C1 domain of Factor VIII, which is a partially inhibitory antibody of Factor VIII.
US08784815B2 Human CTLA-4 antibodies and their uses
The present invention provides novel human sequence antibodies against human CTLA-4 and methods of treating human diseases, infections and other conditions using these antibodies.
US08784813B2 L-amino acid oxidase with cytotoxic activity from Aplysia punctata
The present invention relates to a cytotoxic polypeptide which is an L-amino acid oxidase isolated from the ink of the sea hare Aplysia punctata.
US08784811B2 Method of treating cancer using antibodies to a non-ligand binding region of NOTCH1
The present invention relates to compositions and methods for characterizing, diagnosing, and treating cancer. In particular the invention provides the means and methods for the diagnosis, characterization, prognosis and treatment of cancer and specifically targeting cancer stem cells. The present invention provides an antibody that specifically binds to a non-ligand binding region of the extracellular domain of a human NOTCH receptor and inhibits growth of tumor cells. The present invention further provides a method of treating cancer, the method comprising administering a therapeutically effective amount of an antibody that specifically binds to a non-ligand binding region of the extracellular domain of a human NOTCH receptor protein and inhibits growth of tumor cells.
US08784805B2 Method for increasing the activity of the immune system of a mammal at risk of inflammatory diseases
The present invention relates to methods for increasing the activity of the immune system and, especially, to methods for increasing the activity of the immune system by modulation of endogenous ectophosphatase levels. According to a particularly preferred embodiment the present invention relates to methods for the prophylaxis of mammals, and especially human mammals, at risk of inflammatory diseases such as mammals suffering from conditions such as surgery, digestive tract diseases, respiratory diseases, skin diseases, burn wounds, smoke inhalation, intoxication, severe blood loss, food poisoning, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, severe trauma or liver diseases, immunocompromised conditions. For this, the present invention provides use of an ectophosphatase for the preparation of a medicament for the prophylaxis of a mammal at risk of inflammatory diseases.
US08784804B2 Nutraceutical composition that comprises extract of andean shilajit, for preventing and/or treating neurodegenerative diseases and/or the cognitive deterioration associated with cerebral aging
The present invention relates to a potent antioxidant neuroprotective nutraceutical composition that comprises blending extract of Shilajit (250 to 500 mg) and folic acid (200 to 400 μg), together with small amounts of vitamins B6 (20 to 40 μg) and B12 (4 to 8 μg) consumed per day. This composition can be used to prevent and to treat neurodegenerative diseases or episodes of cognitive deterioration arising from various pathological conditions. The use thereof is indicated in the treatment of Alzheimer's disease and senile dementia as the pathological conditions preferably to be treated. The composition is suitable for direct human consumption by mouth, either in solid form as a powder or as a suspension of the extract, as a food additive or as a nutraceutical agent. It may be formulated as a nutraceutical agent to be included as an ingredient in beverages or as a drug in conjunction with permitted excipients.
US08784799B2 Duplexed parvovirus vectors
The present invention provides duplexed parvovirus vector genomes that are capable under appropriate conditions of forming a double-stranded molecule by intrastrand base-pairing. Also provided are duplexed parvovirus particles comprising the vector genome. Further disclosed are templates and methods for producing the duplexed vector genomes and duplexed parvovirus particles of the invention. Methods of administering these reagents to a cell or subject are also described. Preferably, the parvovirus capsid is an AAV capsid. It is further preferred that the vector genome comprises AAV terminal repeat sequences.
US08784798B2 Bifidobacterium longum NCC2705 (CNCM I-2618) and immune disorders
The present invention generally relates to the field of preventing and/or treating inflammatory and infectious disorders, in particular by boosting the endogenous antimicrobial defenses. One embodiment of the present invention is the use of B. longum NCC2705 (deposit number CNCM 1-2618) for use in the treatment or prevention of disorders related to the immune system including infections.
US08784797B2 Methods, pharmaceutical compositions and kits for use in the treatment of adult T-cell leukemia/lymphoma
The present invention relates to methods, pharmaceutical compositions and kits for use in the treatment of Adult T-cell leukemia/lymphoma. More particularly, the present invention relates to a combination of an interferon, an arsenic compound and a reverse transcriptase inhibitor for the treatment of Adult T-cell leukemia/lymphoma.
US08784796B2 Vaccine immunotherapy for treating hepatocellular cancer in immune suppressed patients
A method for overcoming mild to moderate immune suppression includes the steps of inducing production of naive T-cells and restoring T-cell immunity. A method of vaccine immunotherapy includes the steps of inducing production of naive T-cells and exposing the naive T-cells to endogenous or exogenous antigens at an appropriate site. Additionally, a method for unblocking immunization at a regional lymph node includes the steps of promoting differentiation and maturation of immature dendritic cells at a regional lymph node and allowing presentation of processed peptides by resulting mature dendritic cells, thus, for example, exposing tumor peptides to T-cells to gain immunization of the T-cells. Further, a method of treating cancer and other persistent lesions includes the steps of administering an effective amount of a natural cytokine mixture as an adjuvant to endogenous or exogenous administered antigen to the cancer or other persistent lesions.
US08784793B2 Conformable solvent-based bandage and coating material
A biological coating material that includes a polymerizable polyacrylate monomer; a volatile liquid; a polymer selected from a synthetic rubber, a natural rubber, and a thermoplastic elastomer. The biological liquid coating material forms a coating or bandage in the form of a film that when applied and adhered to a surface or to the skin of a user inhibits the application surface from adhering to another surface.
US08784791B2 Method for preparing water-soluble polymer derivatives bearing an N-succinimidyl ester
A method is provided for preparing water-soluble polymer derivatives bearing a terminal N-succinimidyl ester. The method involves the hydrolyzing an ortho ester of a water-soluble polymer so as provide the corresponding acid and subsequently esterifying the acid.
US08784789B2 Aqueous liquid preparations and light-stabilized aqueous liquid preparations
An aqueous liquid preparation containing (+)-(S)-4-[4-[(4-chlorophenyl)(2-pyridyl)methoxy]piperidino]butyric acid or a pharmacologically acceptable acid addition salt thereof, which is stabilized with a water-soluble metal chloride, is provided.
US08784787B2 Co-modified organopolysiloxane
A novel organopolysiloxane having a hydrophilic group, which can be produced easily and is not susceptible to two-phase separation, sedimentation of unreacted materials or the like after production, while being chemically stable and excellently practical, is disclosed. A method for producing the organopolysiloxane; and uses of the organopolysiloxane are also disclosed. The organopolysiloxane is a co-modified organopolysiloxane which has a group having a siloxane dendron structure and a hydrophilic group.
US08784786B2 Rheology modifier polymer
A polymer includes (a) one or more first monomeric units, each independently comprising at least one bicycloheptyl-polyether, bicycloheptenyl-polyether or branched (C5-C50)alkyl-polyether group per monomeric unit, wherein the bicycloheptyl-polyether or bicycloheptenyl-polyether group may optionally be substituted on one or more ring carbon atoms by one or two (C1-C6)alkyl groups per carbon atom, and (b) one or more second monomeric units, each independently comprising at least one pendant linear or branched (C5-C50)alkyl-polyether group per monomeric unit, provided that the first and second monomeric units cannot both comprise a branched (C5-C50)alkyl-polyether group and is useful as a component in liquid compositions, such as aqueous latex coating compositions, personal care compositions, home care compositions, and institutional or industrial care compositions.
US08784784B2 Organic compounds
Deodorant composition for the treatment of female malodour comprising a perfume containing violet nitrile and optionally pharaone and/or zinarine.
US08784777B2 Flexibly labeling peptides
A solid phase peptide synthesis method for synthesizing a peptidyl contrast agent is disclosed. In one example, the method includes synthesizing an amino-chelator loaded resin, coupling of the amino-chelator loaded resin to the C-terminus and/or backbone of a peptide, cleaving the amino-chelator-peptide from a resin, and chelating a lanthanide metal to the amino-chelator-peptide.
US08784775B2 Compounds for use in imaging, diagnosing and/or treatment of diseases of the central nervous system or of tumors
This invention relates to novel compounds suitable for labeling or already labeled by 18F, methods of preparing such a compound, compositions comprising such compounds, kits comprising such compounds or compositions and uses of such compounds, compositions or kits for diagnostic imaging by positron emission tomography (PET).
US08784772B2 Urothelial differentiation of urothelial carcinoma: a bladder cancer stem cell model
The present invention provides a method of treating cancer in a patient (e.g., a human patient) in need thereof, the method comprising administering a therapeutically effective regimen, the regimen comprising administering to a patient in need thereof a compound that targets 67 laminin receptor (67LR). In a particular embodiment, the compound that targets 67LR is an antibody or antibody fragment. In particular, the present invention provides a method of treating cancer comprising administering to a patient in need thereof an antibody that binds to 67LR. The present invention also provides a method of treating cancer comprising administering to a patient in need thereof an antibody conjugate, wherein the antibody conjugate comprises an antibody that binds to 67LR linked to a therapeutic agent, a protein toxin, a cytotoxic agent or other moiety. The present invention provides pharmaceutical compositions for the treatment of cancer comprising an antibody that binds to 67LR in an amount effective to reduce cancer stem cells and/or cancer cells in a patient. The invention also provides for means to detect and monitor cancer stem cells based on their expression of 67LR.
US08784771B2 Process for preparing Ti-doped hydrides
The present invention provides a process for the preparation of Ti-doped alkali metal and/or alkaline-earth metal aluminum hydride, comprising intimately mixing: an alkali metal and/or alkaline-earth metal aluminum hydride, or at least one alkali metal hydride and/or alkaline-earth metal hydride, metallic aluminum and H2, with in the range of from 0.5 to 20 mol % of Ti(OCH3)4, based on the moles of Al in the prepared Ti-doped alkali metal and/or alkaline-earth metal aluminum hydride. The invention further relates to a Ti-doped alkali metal and/or alkaline-earth metal aluminum hydride, obtainable by a process according to the invention, a hydrogen storage material comprising a Ti-doped alkali metal and/or alkaline-earth metal aluminum hydride according the invention, a process for reversibly desorbing and/or absorbing hydrogen, the use of a Ti-doped alkali metal and/or alkaline-earth metal aluminum hydride according to invention to store hydrogen and the use of Ti(OCH3)4 as Ti-dopant for an alkali metal and/or alkaline-earth metal aluminum hydride.
US08784765B2 C70 cube with enhanced photoluminescence and method for preparing the same
Disclosed in that a fullerene aggregate and a method for preparing the same, and the fullerene aggregate including a cube-shaped crystalline C70 non-solvent aggregate.
US08784762B2 Treatment of NOx-containing gas streams
Methods and systems for treating a gas stream comprising NOx are disclosed. In one embodiment of the method, the gas stream comprising NOx is reacted with ozone to form oxidation products including nitrogen sesquioxide and nitrogen pentoxide. At least a portion of the nitrogen sesquioxide and nitrogen pentoxide is reacted with water to form nitric acid, and a solubilized form of the nitric acid is collected and may be reused or otherwise utilized. Systems for conducting the method also are disclosed.
US08784760B2 Process for recovering CO2 from regeneration flue gas coming from a catalytic cracking unit
The invention describes an integrated process for capturing CO2 emitted by at least a portion of the flue gas coming from the regeneration zone of a catalytic cracking unit using a unit for amine treatment of said flue gas, in which the catalytic cracking unit is equipped with an external exchanger using as the hot fluid a portion of the catalyst removed from the regeneration zone, the heat necessary for the amine treatment unit being supplied integrally by the catalytic cracking unit using the steam generated by said external exchanger.
US08784758B2 LNT control method for vehicle
An LNT (Lean NOx Trap) control method for vehicles increases a purification rate of NOx while preventing an increase in the amount of slip of separated NOx at a relatively low LNT temperature. The method includes a recycle necessity determining step that determines whether to recycle NOx of a LNT in accordance with an amount of adsorbed NOx, a LNT temperature determining step that determines whether a temperature of the LNT is below a predetermined reference temperature, a rich performing step that performs a rich mode when the temperature of the LNT is equal to the reference temperature or above and a pre-rich step that ejects fuel in a rich state when the temperature of the LNT is below the reference temperature.
US08784756B2 Process for the joint production of sodium carbonate and sodium bicarbonate
A process for the joint production of sodium carbonate and sodium bicarbonate out of trona, comprising: introducing and dissolving crushed trona ore in a leaching tank containing a solution comprising sodium carbonate and sodium bicarbonate, saturated in sodium bicarbonate, in order to produce solid particles suspended in a production solution comprising sodium carbonate, the solid particles containing insoluble impurities and at least 65% in weight of sodium bicarbonate; separating the solid particles from the production solution containing sodium carbonate; drying and valorizing the separated solid particles; taking at least part of the production solution containing sodium carbonate out of the leaching tank in order to constitute a produced solution which is valorized; and introducing water in the leaching tank.
US08784755B2 Process for obtaining potassium chloride
Aspects of the present invention relate to a process to obtain potassium chloride that includes submitting brine to concentration, separating brine after concentration, resulting in a first solid content and a first liquid content, cooling the first liquid content, separating the first liquid content after cooling, thus resulting in a second solid content and a second liquid content, enriching the second solid content, and separating the second solid content after enrichment, thus resulting in a third solid content and a third liquid content. Aspects of this process are environmentally safe, as the process includes stages using solvents and equipment which does not harm the environment. Moreover, aspects of this process present a significant energy consumption reduction.
US08784752B2 Use of chemically patterned substrate for liquid handling, chemical and biological reactions
Methods and devices for adding liquids to and washing a microfluidic element array are disclosed. The method and devices feature a microfluidic plate holder with a sloped wall for improved draining of liquid, a machine readable/writable identifier, plate leveling systems, liquid filling systems, a hydrophilic-liquid coating, and an automated washing station.
US08784751B2 Thermowell compound apparatus of high shell for residue hydrogen desulfurization
The present invention relates to a thermowell blocking apparatus for a high-pressure reactor used in a desulfurization process, which can rapidly prevent noxious high-temperature and high-pressure gases from leaking out of a high-pressure reactor when the noxious high-temperature and high-pressure gases leak from the high-pressure reactor due to unexpected damage occurring to a thermowell used for measuring a reaction temperature of a catalyst. The thermowell blocking apparatus can prevent the economic losses caused by the stoppage of the desulfurization process, and can reduce consequential damages to human life, the environment, and the like.
US08784749B2 Digital microfluidic manipulation device and manipulation method thereof
This invention provides a digital microfluidic manipulation device and a manipulation method thereof. This device comprises a PDMS membrane having a surface comprising a plurality of hydrophobic microstructures; a plurality of air chambers arranged in an array and placed under the PDMS membrane; and a plurality of air channels, each of which connects to a corresponding one of the plurality of air chambers. When a suction force is transmitted via one of the plurality of air channels to the corresponding air chamber, a portion of the PDMS membrane above the air chamber deforms toward the air chamber, so that the surface morphology and the contact angle of the liquid/solid interface of the surface comprising the plurality of hydrophobic microstructures are altered and thereby to drive droplets.
US08784742B2 Exhaust aftertreatment device with integrated shell and baffle
An exhaust treatment device includes an inner shell, an outer shell and insulation material positioned between the inner shell and the outer shell. An inlet tube has an end in communication with a cavity defined by the inner shell. A substrate for treating engine exhaust is positioned within the inner shell. A baffle plate includes a plurality of apertures positioned such that the exhaust passes through the apertures prior to entering the substrate. The baffle plate supports an end of the inner shell and the inlet tube.
US08784738B2 System for protecting circuitry in high-temperature environments
An electrical device for performing a particular function includes a system circuit for performing the function, and a dedicated power supply for providing power to the circuit. Both the system circuit and the power supply are hermetically sealed within a housing. The device within the housing is intended to be sterilized using high temperature, reaching a sterilization temperature. According to the invention, the device includes a thermal switch which is electrically connected between the system circuit and the power supply. With the present invention, the electrical components of a device are automatically protected from thermal damage during sterilization.
US08784730B2 Nickel-based alloy
Nickel-based alloy consisting of (in % by mass) Si 0.8-2.0%, Al 0.001-0.1%, Fe 0.01-0.2%, C 0.001-0.10%, N 0.0005-0.10%, Mg 0.0001-0.08%, O 0.0001-0.010%, Mn max. 0.10%, Cr max. 0.10%, Cu max. 0.50%, S max. 0.008%, balance Ni and the usual production-related impurities.
US08784725B2 Wide casting belt, method for manufacturing a wide film, and wide film
The present invention relates to a wide casting belt, and more particularly, to a wide casting belt used for manufacturing a film in a gel state by casting dope used during the manufacture of a polarizing plate for a liquid crystal display, and an optical compensation film, etc. The present invention also relates to a method for manufacturing a wide film using the wide casting belt, and to a wide film manufactured with said wide casting belt.
US08784720B2 Method and device for manufacturing a three-dimensional object that is suitable for application to microtechnology
The present invention relates to a method and a device for manufacturing a three-dimensional object, wherein the object is generated by successively solidifying single layers of fluid or powdery solidifiable building material by the action of electromagnetic radiation. The method comprises steps for emitting a first pulsed electromagnetic radiation onto a first area of a layer of the building material, and for emitting a second continuous electromagnetic radiation onto a second area of the layer of the building material.
US08784719B2 Flow in reinforced polyimide compositions
Reinforced polyimide compositions that include a reinforcing filler and a polyamide flow promoter improve flow promotion while maintaining other mechanical, thermal, flame and/or electrical properties of the compositions. The compositions may include an inorganic or organic reinforcing filler, a polyimide resin such as polyetherimide or polyamideimide and a small amount of an aromatic or aliphatic polyamide as the flow promoter. The resulting compositions may be used in thinner-wall applications while still retaining the advantageous physical properties of reinforced polyimide compositions not having the flow promoter. This abstract is intended as a scanning tool for purposes of searching in the particular art and is not intended to be limiting of the present invention.
US08784718B2 Vulcanising press for a tire blank including a tiltable lid
The curing press (2) for a tire blank comprises: a trough (4), a cover (6) connected to the trough by means of sliding guide members (8), the cover and the trough each being pivotably mounted on these members. The cover (6) is, moreover, pivotably mounted on an axle (24) guided slidably with respect to the trough.
US08784716B2 Method and apparatus for longitudinal orientation of thermoplastic film material
Method and apparatus for longitudinal orientation of thermoplastic film material (4) comprises a width-reduction zone upstream of the longitudinal stretching zone, through which the width of the film is gradually reduced so as to allow longitudinal stretching without necking. The width-reduction zone comprises at least one, preferably several, pairs of pleating rollers (16, 17) comprising intermeshing grooves or discs for pleating the material, the length of said width reduction zone preferably being less than 3 times the original width of the film. The width-reducing zone has upstream (14) and downstream (15) rollers or roller assemblies, with curved axes and optionally also conveyor belts for providing smooth width reduction. Longitudinal stretching is preferably between at least two, and preferably more than two, pairs of stretching rollers (9, 10, 11, 12) which are relatively close together. The pleats may be provided in several stages with increasing pleats per stage, while guiding means preferably lay all the pleats to one side. The method allows achievement of high tensile strength, yield point, resistance to tear propagation and puncture resistance, especially for polyethylene and polypropylene films.
US08784714B2 Steroid eluting collar undermold
Methods of manufacturing implantable medical devices with one or more undermolded features are disclosed. An example method includes injection molding an annular-shaped member onto an inner surface of a sacrificial mold insert, and then undermolding an elongate medical device body directly to the member. The member is directly coupled to the device body without the use of adhesives or bonding agents, thus eliminating the presence of gaps or surface irregularities that can affect device performance.
US08784710B2 Expandable polymer membrane and tubes, and a method of manufacturing thereof
A method of making an expanded polytetrafluoroethylene (ePTFE) membrane including the steps of: providing an unsintered or partially sintered ePTFE membrane; matting the unsintered or partially sintered ePTFE membrane; and immediately thereafter, sintering the matted ePTFE membrane. A method for making ePTFE tubes includes the steps of: providing an unsintered or partially sintered ePTFE membrane; wrapping the ePTFE membrane around a mandrel or form tool to form an ePTFE tube; matting the ePTFE tube; immediately thereafter, sintering the matted ePTFE tube; and removing the sintered ePTFE tube from the mandrel or form tool.
US08784705B2 Intumescent coating compositions
A liquid intumescent coating composition comprising a resin system. The resin system comprises at least one polymeric component, one or more ethylenically unsaturated monomeric components and at least one intumescent ingredient. The coating composition is curable to a solid state in a free-radical polymerization reaction.
US08784702B2 Copper-containing nanoparticles and manufacturing method therefor
Copper-containing nanoparticles with excellent oxidation resistance is provided. The present invention relates to a method for manufacturing copper-containing nanoparticles including obtaining copper-containing nanoparticles that contain an organic component by heat treating an organic copper compound at a temperature equal to or higher than a decomposition initiation temperature of the compound and lower than a complete decomposition temperature of the compound in a non-oxidative atmosphere in the presence of an organic material containing a 1,2-alkanediol having 5 or more carbon atoms and/or a derivative thereof.
US08784701B2 Preparation of nanoparticle material
A process for producing nanoparticles incorporating ions selected from groups 13, 16, and 11 or 12 of the periodic table, and materials produced by the process. In an embodiment, the process includes effecting conversion of a nanoparticle precursor composition comprising group 13, 16, and 11 or 12 ions to the material of the nanoparticles in the presence of a selenol compound. Other embodiments include a process for fabricating a thin film including nanoparticles incorporating ions selected from groups 13, 16, and 11 or 12 of the periodic table as well as a process for producing a printable ink formulation including the nanoparticles.
US08784694B2 Lithium manganese phosphate/carbon nanocomposites as cathode active materials for secondary lithium batteries
The invention relates to a lithium manganese phosphate/carbon nanocomposite as cathode material for rechargeable electrochemical cells with the general formula LixMnyM1-y(PO4)z/C where M is at least one other metal such as Fe, Ni, Co, Cr, V, Mg, Ca, Al, B, Zn, Cu, Nb, Ti, Zr, La, Ce, Y, x=0.8-1.1, y=0.5-1.0, 0.9
US08784692B2 Water dispersible polythiophenes made with polymeric acid colloids
Compositions are provided comprising a continuous liquid aqueous medium having dispersed therein a polydioxythiophene and at least one colloid-forming fluorinated polymeric acid. Films from invention compositions are useful as buffer layers in organic electronic devices, including electroluminescent devices, such as, for example, organic light emitting diodes (OLED) displays.
US08784691B2 Conductive composites prepared using ionic liquids
Disclosed are conductive composites prepared from ionic liquids, compositions for preparing the composites, and methods of making and using the composites.
US08784679B2 Aqueous powder water treatment compositions and methods for making same
Embodiments of a method of producing an aqueous powder composition for treating water comprise mixing sodium metabisulfite powder with amines, wherein the amines comprises liquid cyclohexylamine, and adding water to the mixture of sodium metabisulfite powder and liquid cyclohexylamine to catalyze the production of the aqueous powder composition.
US08784674B2 Method of making a PMR writer with graded side shield
A perpendicular magnetic recording (PMR) head is fabricated with a pole tip shielded laterally by a graded side shield that is conformal to the shape of the pole tip at an upper portion of the shield but not conformal to the pole tip at a lower portion. The shield includes a trailing shield, that is conformal to the trailing edge of the pole tip and may include a leading edge shield that magnetically connects two bottom ends of the graded side shield.
US08784670B2 Multi-phase flow separation apparatus and system
A multi-phase flow separation apparatus has a tank with at least one inlet and at least one outlet, and an enclosure within the tank. The at least one inlet communicates an input flow into the enclosure. The enclosure has a sidewall defining an open bottom and at least one flow opening below the height of the inlet of the tank. The at least one outlet of the tank is outside the enclosure and above the at least one flow opening of the enclosure.
US08784668B2 Systems and methods for compensation of compliant behavior in regenerative dialysis systems
In a regenerative dialysis system, in a method for controlling a regenerative dialysis system, and in a controller for a regenerative dialysis system, an embodiment of the system comprises an input pump that pumps fresh dialysate fluid into a dialyzer at an input rate. An output pump pumps used dialysate fluid from the dialyzer at an output rate. An ultrafiltration rate of the system is related to the output rate relative to the input rate. A sorbent cartridge filters the used dialysate fluid to generate the fresh dialysate fluid. A controller controls the ultrafiltration rate of the system in response to a flow rate of the dialysate fluid through the sorbent cartridge.
US08784667B2 Method for preventing scale deposits and removing contaminants from fluid columns
A method and apparatus of fluid treatment for a plurality of fluids with a first and a second non-magnetically conductive fluid flow conduit sleeved within at least one segment of magnetically conductive conduit providing a plurality of distinct areas of concentrated magnetic energy. The instant invention prevents the formation and accumulation of contaminants within conduits and on equipment utilized in the transportation, delivery and processing of fluid columns. It may also be utilized to accelerate the separation of oil and water and increase the efficiency of oil/water separation equipment.
US08784666B2 Integrated spin systems for the separation and recovery of gold, precious metals, rare earths and purification of water
A system and method are provided for the extraction of gold and other precious metals and elements from ore, as well as purification of water. Heavy elements are separated from lighter elements during the rotation of any conductive liquid in a chamber. To provide proper conductivity seawater can be used as the main conductive liquid. An electric field and hence a current is generated in a radial direction in a magnetic field generated in an axial direction, perpendicular to the radial direction, with respect to a chamber. The conductive liquid is provided to the chamber and is subjected to the current, and the conductive liquid is caused to rotate in the chamber by the current interacting with the magnetic field. Due to the Lorentz force, proper rotation is achieved without any mechanical motion. Rotation of the liquid in the chamber causes separation of heavy elements from light element caused by centrifugal forces. This system and method is also effective to clean up pollution of past and existing mines by decomposing hazardous leaching solutions such as cyanides into non-harmful elements, for example hydrogen, carbon and nitrogen.
US08784663B2 Trapping nanostructures
A trap Including: an inlet configured to receive a fluid conveying nanostructures; ionic liquid configured to trap the nanostructures; and an outlet for the fluid.
US08784660B2 Method for the remediation of water generated from natural resource production operations
In some embodiments, a wastewater treatment system may reduce contaminants in water. A system may include one or more bioreactors which include a substrate that supports a biofilm. The bacteria used to form the biofilm may be selected to maximize the reduction of contaminants in water. Various components of the wastewater treatment system may be optimized to improve the efficiency and energy consumption of the wastewater system.
US08784659B2 Method for controlling microbial biofilm in aqueous systems
A process has been found which increases the efficiency and effectiveness of introducing antimicrobial compounds into complex biofilm matrices through the use of liposome carriers, thereby removing the biofouling in industrial water bearing systems, including piping, heat exchanges, condensers, filtration systems and fluid storage tanks. According to one embodiment of the invention, antimicrobial compound containing liposomes are added to water systems prone to biofouling and biofilm formation. The liposomes, being similar in composition to microbial membranes or cells, are readily incorporated into the existing biofilm. Once the antimicrobial compound containing liposomes become entrained with the biofilm matrix, the decomposition or programmed disintegration of the liposome proceeds. Thereafter, the biocidal aqueous core is released to react directly with the biofilm encased microorganisms. Upon the death of the organisms, the polysaccharide/protein matrix decomposes and thereby results in reduced fouling of the water bearing system, resulting in increased heat transfer, increased flux, less deposit of colloidal and particulate solids and dissolved organics on the surface of the microfiltration membrane, thereby reducing the frequency and duration of the membrane cleaning and ultimate replacement.
US08784658B2 Wastewater treatment process and plant comprising controlling the dissolved oxygen concentration
The present invention relates to a process for treating wastewater that includes the steps of: —a contact step, wherein wastewater contacts bacteria retained on a support surface and the dissolved oxygen concentration of the wastewater is maintained at 2.0 mg/l or less; an aeration step, wherein gas is passed through wastewater that has passed through the contact step and the dissolved oxygen concentration of the wastewater is reduced as the wastewater passes through the aeration step; a sedimentation step, wherein wastewater that has passed through the aeration step is substantially separated into treated water and sludge; and a sludge recycling step, wherein sludge from the sedimentation step is passed to the contact step. The invention also relates to a processing unit on which the aforementioned process may be operated.
US08784653B2 Modular sand filtration-anchor system and wave energy water desalinization system incorporating the same
A filter-anchor for placement on a sea floor is provided. It includes a filter housing for filtering sea water prior to entry into a water desalinization system. The filter housing has an exterior, an interior chamber, at least one inlet for providing the sea water to the interior chamber, and at least one outlet for enabling filtered water to be pumped from the interior chamber. A sand filter is disposed in the filter housing. The filter housing has at least one water conduction outlet conduit for filtered water to be pumped to the desalinization system. A wave energy conversion system utilizing the filter anchor is also provided to effect the pumping of the filtered water to the desalinization system. A method of anchoring a wave energy conversion system and providing filtered water to a desalinization system is also provided.
US08784651B2 Water separator
A water separator for continuous separation of water, air and particles includes an inlet pipe, an outlet pipe, an upper chamber connected with a lower chamber, and a three-way valve located in an air connection pipe being adapted to establish a connection between the upper and lower chambers in a first position and closing the connection to the upper chamber and allowing atmospheric air to enter into the lower chamber in a second position. The upper chamber includes a coarse filter capturing particles from the liquid flow to the lower chamber. The water separator includes a main tank and a safety tank, which are connected through a connection pipe from the upper chamber in the main tank to the safety tank and through the air connection pipe from the lower chamber in the main tank to the safety tank. The inlet pipe is through the lid of the main tank.
US08784650B2 Method and equipment for multistage liquefying of carbonaceous solid fuel
A method for multistage transforming carbonaceous solid fuel to oil, includes mixing solid fuel (17) with heavy oil (40) to obtain fuel-oil slurry; heating and dehydrating of the slurry; liquefying of the slurry by hydrogenation under a low-medium pressure to obtain light oil (25) and heavy oil-residue slurry; hydrorefining the light oil (25) to obtain refined oil; gasifying the heavy oil-residue slurry in a gasifier (11) to obtain syngas (47); producing F-T synthesis oil (52) with the syngas (47); hydrorefining and hydrocracking the F-T synthesis oil (52) to obtain refined oil; mixing the refined oil from the F-T synthesis oil with the refined oil from liquefying by hydrogenation for producing high quality oil with low sulfur and low ammonia, and other chemical product. The method can be applied to various kinds of coals and biomass, especially applied to lignite and biomass. A suspended bed reactor for liquefying of carbonaceous solid fuel by hydrogenation is also disclosed.
US08784641B2 Method and apparatus for detecting a lipophilic analyte of interest in a sample
Disclosed is a method and apparatus for detecting the concentration of a lipophilic analyte of interest in a complex sample matrix. The method comprises extracting the analyte of interest from said sample into an organic solvent comprising a dissolved electrolyte; providing a free radical species, preferably a free oxygen radical species, in said organic solvent; reacting the analyte of interest with said free radical species; and performing a measurement to detect the concentration of the free radical-reacted analyte reaction product.
US08784636B2 Plating apparatus and plating method
A method can form a conductive structure, which is useful for three-dimensional packaging with via plugs, in a shorter time by shortening the conventional long plating time that is an impediment to the practical use of electroplating. The method includes forming a conductive film on an entire surface, including interior surfaces of via holes, of a substrate having the via holes formed in the surface; forming a resist pattern at a predetermined position on the conductive film; carrying out first electroplating under first plating conditions, using the conductive film as a feeding layer, thereby filling a first plated film into the via holes; and carrying out second electroplating under second plating conditions, using the conductive film and the first plated film as a feeding layer, thereby allowing a second plated film to grow on the conductive film and the first plated film, both exposed in the resist openings of the resist pattern.
US08784635B2 Formation of organic electro-grafted films on the surface of electrically conductive or semi-conductive surfaces
The invention relates to a method for grafting an organic film onto an electrically conductive or semiconductive surface by electro-reduction of a solution, wherein the solution comprises one diazonium salt and one monomer bearing at least one chain polymerizable functional group. During the electrolyzing process, at least one protocol consisting of an electrical polarization of the surface by applying a variable potential over at least a range of values which are more cathodic that the reduction or peak potential of all diazonium salts in said solution is applied.The invention also relates to an electrically conducting or semiconducting surface obtained by implementing this method.The invention further relates to electrolytic compositions.
US08784634B2 Electrolytic method for filling holes and cavities with metals
Disclosed is an electroplating method for filling cavities, through holes, blind holes, or micro blind holes of a work piece with metals. According to said method, the work piece containing cavities, through holes, blind holes, or micro blind holes is brought in contact with a metal deposition electrolyte, and a voltage is applied between the work piece and at least one anode such that a current flow is fed to the work piece. The invention method is characterized in that the electrolyte encompasses a redox system.
US08784633B2 Automatic positioning and sensing microelectrode arrays
A microelectrode sensing device includes a substrate and an array of microelectrode sensors. Each sensor includes a first conductive layer that at least partially conducts electricity. The first conductive layer is formed above the substrate and patterned to include a recording electrode that measures electrical activities of target cells. Each sensor also includes a second conductive layer that at least partially conducts electricity. The second conductive layer is elevated above the first layer and patterned to include multiple positioning electrodes arranged to define a sensing region above the recording electrode. The positioning electrodes are designed to generate an electric field pattern in the sensing region to move and confine the target cells to a sub-region of the sensing region that at least partially overlaps the recording electrode.
US08784632B2 High-pressure electrodialysis device
An apparatus for performing electrodialysis at pressures greater than or equal to the ambient pressure is described. The apparatus includes an electrodialysis membrane stack and housing. The electrodialysis membrane stack includes at least one electrodialysis cell. The electrodialysis apparatus includes electrodes that apply voltage across the electrodialysis stack. The housing pressurizes the electrodialysis stack at a stack pressure. The housing includes a cell chamber that receives the electrodialysis stack, the cell chamber including at least one pressurization port communicating with the cell chamber such that a portion of electrode solution is transmittable into a region of the cell chamber outside the electrodialysis stack. A system for performing electrodialysis at pressures greater than ambient pressure includes at least two solution loops, an electrode solution loop, and an electrodialysis apparatus operatively connected to the solution and electrode solution loops that performs electrodialysis at a stack pressure that is greater than ambient pressure.
US08784631B2 Separation medium for capillary electrophoresis suppressing electroosmotic flow in bare capillaries and channels
Disclosed herein is a composition of a separation medium and method of its use for electrophoresis in bare channels, either capillaries or chips, with suppressed electroosmotic flow, wherein various forms of boric acid are adsorbed on the wall of said separation channel, efficiently suppressing zeta potential of the wall of said bare channel. A composition of a sieving separation medium for electrophoresis of DNA is disclosed. A composition of a sieving separation medium for electrophoretic size separation of proteins by SDS CSE is also disclosed. A composition of a separation medium for capillary electrophoresis without sieving is also disclosed.
US08784623B2 Nanopore device and a method for nucleic acid analysis
A nanopore device is described wherein is provided a sample input (110), an input chamber (120), and first and second sample chambers (130, 140) connected to the input chambers (120) via first and second nanopores (135, 145).
US08784622B2 System and method for dual-sided sputter etch of substrates
A system is provided for etching patterned media disks. A movable non-contact electrode is utilized to perform sputter etch. The electrode moves to near contact distance to, but not contacting, the substrate so as to couple RF energy to the disk. The material to be etched may be metal, e.g., Co/Pt/Cr or similar metals. The substrate is held vertically in a carrier and both sides are etched serially. That is, one side is etched in one chamber and then in the next chamber the second side is etched. An isolation valve is disposed between the two chambers and the disk carrier moves the disks between the chambers. The carrier may be a linear drive carrier, using, e.g., magnetized wheels and linear motors.
US08784621B1 Wafer carrier comprising a variable aperture shield
A wafer carrier is described. In one embodiment, the wafer carrier includes a variable aperture shield.
US08784617B2 Process of converting gaseous hydrocarbons to a liquid hydrocarbon composition
A non-thermal, repetitively-pulsed gliding discharge reactor includes a high-voltage power source configured to provide a pulsed high-voltage potential; a gas inlet; a liquid sorbent inlet; a product outlet; a plurality of first electrodes connected to the high-voltage power source; a plurality of second electrodes that are grounded; and a trough; the plurality of first electrodes being separated from the plurality of second electrodes by a discharge region.
US08784615B2 Perforated film clothing having a tear-resistant edge
A clothing for a paper machine is configured as a film-shaped continuous band that is closed in the circumferential direction and that has a perforated useful area and at least one edge extending between the useful area and a lateral edge. The edge area has a perforation density lower than the perforation density of the useful area.
US08784614B2 Sheet forming unit for producing a material web and method for operating the sheet forming unit
A sheet-forming unit of a papermaking machine includes a headbox which outputs a suspension jet and an inner fabric and an outer fabric, which in each case form a loop. A forming element is arranged within the loop of the inner fabric and guide rolls and a white-water box are arranged within the loop of the outer fabric. The inner fabric and the outer fabric form a gap for receiving the suspension jet and jointly wrap around the forming element at least partially in a wraparound region. A machine-wide guide element is arranged in the wraparound region within the loop of the outer fabric and/or, in the region of at least one of the guide rolls of the outer fabric, a machine-wide guide apparatus is provided outside the chamber which is formed by the loop of the outer fabric.
US08784613B2 Method and composition for enzymatic treatment of fiber for papermaking, and paper products made therewith
A method is provided for controlling organic contaminants, such as xylans, pitch or both, that interfere with bleaching of fibers and/or cause other interference(s) in papermaking systems. The method includes contacting fibers before any bleaching thereof with a composition which contains a hemicellulolytic enzyme and an organic contaminant removal adjuvant to liberate the organic contaminants from the fibers. The treated fibers can then be bleached and further used, for example, in making paper. The present invention also relates to the treatment compositions and to paper products made with fiber materials treated with these compositions. A method of enhancing enzymatic degradation of a substrate as well as formulations and systems for achieving the same are also provided. Various substrates can be degraded or otherwise processed, including biomass, paper mill sludge, and animal hides. Enzymatic degradation can be enhanced by including one or more polymeric surfactants.
US08784611B2 Process for production of paper
The invention relates to a process for the production of paper or board comprising: adding a retention system to a stream of stock entering a paper machine head box, directing the stream of stock to a wire, de watering the stream of stock on the wire to form a paper web, and drying the paper web, wherein the retention system comprises a water-soluble cationic polymer, and nanocellulose acting like a micro particle, wherein the nanocellulose is added in an amount of less than 1% as active substance based on dry solids weight of the stock.
US08784609B2 Fibre furnish
Fiber furnish for use in the manufacture of paper and paper-based products, the fiber furnish consisting essentially of plant petiole tissue, wherein substantially longitudinally aligned petiole fibers have been cut generally laterally to form fibers with a fiber length distribution such that at least 95% of the fibers have substantially the same predetermined fiber length.
US08784606B2 Method for reducing negative effects of adhesive contaminants in systems of substances comprising waste paper
The invention relates to a method for reducing the negative effects of adhesive contaminants in the processing of waste paper, wherein an aqueous polymer dispersion comprising one component A and one component B for coagulation and detackification of stickies is added during the processing of waste paper, wherein component A is a homo- and/or copolymer of methyl methacrylate, acrylate and/or styrene and component B is a styrene copolymer having acrylic acid, maleimide and/or maleic acid hydride. The polymer dispersion can optionally comprise another component C, a cationic fixing agent that supports the coagulation of the stickies.
US08784605B2 Process for making lightweight laminated panel material for construction of cargo containers
A process for making a lightweight laminated panel material for construction of cargo containers includes providing a high performance fabric layer, placing film adhesive layers over both sides of the high performance fabric layer, placing protective surface film layers over the film adhesive layers to form a pre-lamination stack, and placing release layers over the protective surface film layers. The pre-lamination stack is heated, compressed, and maintained at the temperature and under pressure to form a lamination stack. The lamination stack is cooled to an intermediate temperature and released from pressure, cooled further, and the release layers are removed.
US08784595B2 Process for laminating components of an electrochemical cell
A process for laminating at least one electrode sheet onto an electrically conductive support film is provided. The process comprises heating the electrically conductive support film and laminating the at least one electrode sheet onto at least one side of the heated electrically conductive support film. An apparatus for laminating at least one electrode sheet onto an electrically conductive support film is also provided. The apparatus comprises lamination rollers forming a nip and means for carrying the electrically conductive support film and the at least one electrode sheet to the nip formed by the lamination rollers. The apparatus also comprises a heater for heating the electrically conductive support film before the electrically conductive support film reaches the nip formed by the lamination rollers.
US08784589B2 Copper grid repair technique for lightning strike protection
A method for reworking an electrically conductive layer of a composite skin is disclosed in which a patch replaces the altered section of the electrically conductive layer. The method is performed by removing a portion of the electrically conductive layer to reveal the underlying composite skin. A patch is formed, having an electrically conductive section coupled to an adhesive having a low dielectric breakdown strength, and is then introduced over the underlying composite skin such that the adhesive layer covers the underlying composite skin and overlaps an unremoved portion of the electrically conductive layer. The patch is applied such that the electrically conductive section within the patch covers the adhesive layer and overlaps the unremoved section of the electrically conductive layer. The adhesive layer preferably has a low dielectric breakdown strength, so that electricity from lightning which strikes the composite skin may be conducted through the adhesive.
US08784588B2 Damaged reinforcement ending preparation for tire repairs
The present inventions includes methods and apparatus for preparing a portion of a tire for repair, the methods having steps that include forming an edge along an opening within the tire, the edge extending between an interior and an exterior surface of the tire and including one or more tire reinforcement endings, the edge being formed to include an alternating arrangement of tire reinforcement endings. Particular embodiments of the present invention includes methods of preparing a portion of a tire for repair, the method having steps that include forming an edge within an opening of a tire, said edge extending between an interior and exterior tire surface and including one or more reinforcement endings of the tire; and, applying a wrap about the edge to substantially cover the one or more tire reinforcement endings.
US08784584B2 Perchlorate-free yellow signal flare composition
Perchlorate-free flare compositions are disclosed which, when burned, produce yellow smoke and flames. Methods of producing the compositions are also disclosed.
US08784580B2 Copper alloy sheet excellent in strength and formability for electrical and electronic components
Disclosed is a Cu—Ni—Si copper alloy sheet that excels in strength and formability and is used in electrical and electronic components. The copper alloy sheet contains, by mass, 1.5% to 4.5% Ni and 0.3% to 1.0% of Si and optionally contains at least one member selected from 0.01% to 1.3% of Sn, 0.005% to 0.2% of Mg, 0.01% to 5% of Zn, 0.01% to 0.5% of Mn, and 0.001% to 0.3% of Cr, with the remainder being copper and inevitable impurities. The average size of crystal grains is 10 μm or less, the standard deviation σ of crystal grain size satisfies the condition: 2σ<10 μm, and the number of dispersed precipitates lying on grain boundaries and having a grain size of from 30 to 300 nm is 500 or more per millimeter.
US08784579B2 Magnesium grain refining using vanadium
A process of grain refining magnesium metal or magnesium based alloy including the step of a) providing a melt of the magnesium metal or magnesium based alloy, said melt including a grain refining agent in an amount effective to induce grain refinement of said magnesium or magnesium based alloy upon solidification, wherein the grain refining agent is vanadium metal, where said grain refinement comprises a reduction in average grain size of at least 50% (percent) as compared with the average grain size without addition of said grain refining agent.
US08784577B2 Thick high-tensile-strength hot-rolled steel sheet having excellent low-temperature toughness and manufacturing method thereof
A high-tensile-strength hot-rolled steel sheet is provided having a composition which contains 0.02 to 0.08% C, 0.01 to 0.10% Nb, 0.001 to 0.05% Ti and Fe and unavoidable impurities as a balance, wherein the steel sheet contains C, Ti and Nb in such a manner that (Ti+(Nb/2))/C<4 is satisfied, and the steel sheet has a structure where a primary phase of the structure at a position 1 mm away from a surface in a sheet thickness direction is one selected from a group consisting of a ferrite phase, tempered martensite and a mixture structure of a ferrite phase and tempered martensite, a primary phase of the structure at a sheet thickness center position is formed of a ferrite phase, and a difference ΔV between a structural fraction (volume %) of a secondary phase at the position 1 mm away from the surface in the sheet thickness direction and a structural fraction (volume %) of a secondary phase at the sheet thickness center position is 2% or less.
US08784575B2 Low pressure carbonitriding method and device
A method for carbonitriding a steel part arranged in an enclosure maintained at a reduced internal pressure, the part being maintained at a temperature level, comprising an alternation of first and second steps, a carburizing gas being injected into the enclosure during the first steps only and a nitriding gas being injected into the enclosure only during at least part of at least two second steps.
US08784571B2 Liquid detergent composition
A method of cleaning dishware with a liquid detergent composition having an amphiphilic graft polymer, to provide improved grease cleaning and sudsing.
US08784570B2 Method for cleaning the steam nozzle of a machine for preparing beverages
Method for cleaning a steam nozzle (7) of a beverage preparation machine comprising a rinsing container (12) having a top opening (22) and a draining device (23) for evacuating the liquid contained therein; a feed device for feeding the nozzle with liquid; a device (13) for moving the nozzle vertically so that its free end (7a) enters the container (12); and a control unit for controlling the moving and feeding devices. It includes a rinsing sequence with the following steps: the lowering of the nozzle (7) into the rinsing position inside the container; the filling of the container (12) with liquid by the nozzle; and the draining of the container (12) activated by the control unit connected to the moving and feeding devices.
US08784569B2 Apparatus and method for cleaning microsurgical instruments
A cleaning apparatus for microsurgical instruments has a flush chamber closed off at one end by a first plug adapted to liquid-tightly grip one end of the instrument, allowing a portion of the instrument to extend past the first plug and out of the flush chamber. The other end of the flush chamber is closed off by a second plug having an inlet port. Liquid injected through the inlet port on the second plug passes through an internal passageway formed in the instrument and exits the instrument through the portion that extends past the first plug. In another embodiment the instrument has an internal passageway and an end cap through which flushing ports are formed which communicate with the passageway. A first plug having an inlet port is liquid-tightly attached to the end cap and liquid injected into the first plug passes through the plug, through the flushing ports and through the passageway to clean detritus from the instrument.
US08784566B2 Cellulose-solvent-based lignocellulose fractionation with modest reaction conditions and reagent cycling
Embodiments of the present invention overcome the well-known recalcitrance of lignocellulosic biomass in an economically viable manner. A process and system are provided for the efficient fractionation of lignocellulosic biomass into cellulose, hemicellulose sugars, lignin, and acetic acid. The cellulose thus obtained is highly amorphous and can be readily converted into glucose using known methods. Fermentable hemicellulose sugars, low-molecular-weight lignin, and purified acetic acid are also major products of the process and system. The modest process conditions and low solvent/solid ratios of some embodiments of the invention imply relatively low capital and processing costs.
US08784565B2 Manufacturing apparatus for depositing a material and an electrode for use therein
The present invention relates to a manufacturing apparatus for deposition of a material on a carrier body and an electrode for use with the manufacturing apparatus. Typically, the carrier body has a first end and a second end spaced from each other. A socket is disposed at each of the end of the carrier body. The manufacturing apparatus includes a housing that defines a chamber. At least one electrode is disposed through the housing with the electrode at least partially disposed within the chamber for coupling to the socket. The electrode has an exterior surface having a contact region that is adapted to contact the socket. A contact region coating is disposed on the contact region of the exterior surface of the electrode. The contact region coating has an electrical conductivity of at least 9×106 Siemens/meter and a corrosion resistance that is higher than silver in a galvanic series that is based upon room temperature sea water as an electrolyte.
US08784562B2 Carbon nanotube production process and carbon nanotube production apparatus
A substrate 10 that selectively allows hydrogen to permeate therethrough is formed with a catalyst thin layer 20 on a first side 11 thereof and is heated in a furnace tube 110, which functions as a reactor, of a heating furnace 100 while a raw material gas to the catalyst thin layer 20 is fed. Hydrogen produced on the first side 11 of the substrate 10 as a result of the formation of carbon nanotubes 5 is separated from the raw material gas and is allowed to permeate to a second side 12 thereof.
US08784559B2 Method and apparatus for continuous crystal growth
A Czochralski (“CZ”) single-crystal growth process system continuously grows crystal boules in a chamber furnace during a single thermal cycle. Finished boules are transferred from the furnace chamber, without need to cool the furnace, to an adjoining cooling chamber for controlled cooling. Controlled cooling is preferably accomplished by transporting boules along a path having an incrementally decreasing temperature. In order to maximize crystal boule yield in a single furnace thermal cycle, the crucible assembly may be recharged with crystal growth aggregate and/or slag may be discharged during the crystal boule growth process without opening the furnace.
US08784555B2 Surface active blocked isocyanates and coating compositions thereof
Disclosed herein is a surface active adhesion promoting agent and a coating composition comprising the surface active adhesion promoting agent. The adhesion promoting agent is a blocked isocyanate functional siloxane containing material. Addition of small amount of the adhesion promoting agent to a coating composition, especially clearcoat compositions, helps to provide adhesion to a variety of materials that may be subsequently applied to the coating composition.
US08784553B2 Tattoo stencil composition and method for manufacturing
The present invention is a tattoo stencil chemical composition comprising stearic acid, triethanolamine, a humectant to retain moisture on a user's skin, water and a preservative chemical composition that includes 56% propylene glycol, 30% diazolidinyl urea, 11% methylparaben and 3% propylparaben. The tattoo stencil chemical composition can also be sterilized by gamma rays or ethylene oxide and injected into a flexible wipe, one or more packets or a bulk hands free dispenser. The invention also includes a method for manufacturing a tattoo stencil chemical composition.
US08784549B2 Ink set for continuous inkjet printing
An aqueous inkjet ink set for use in continuous inkjet printing comprising at least one cyan ink, at least one yellow ink, at least one magenta ink, and at least one black ink, wherein each ink of the ink set comprises dispersed pigment particles and at least one surfactant selected to provide a 10-ms dynamic surface tension of less than 54 mN/m for each ink. The invention relates to continuous ink jet printing of aqueous pigmented ink compositions recycled from main ink supply reservoirs, employing a printer with drop ejectors and a drop deflector and non-printing drop catchers capable of returning unprinted ink to the fluid delivery systems following the capture of non-printing drops. The pigmented ink jet ink compositions provide for particularly suitable fluid properties on the drop catcher face that minimize printing defects that can occur during drop deflection during the printing of high dynamic range images at high speed.
US08784546B2 W/O-type emulsion ink composition for writing utensil and writing utensil
A W/O-type emulsion ink composition for a writing tool having an aqueous component dispersed in an oil component, the oil component including a fluorescent coloring agent, and the aqueous component including a fluorescent whitening agent and water.
US08784545B2 Shale-gas separating and cleanout system
This invention relates to the separation of shale, gas and fluid at a shale-gas well. The shale debris and water from a shale-gas well is tangentially communicated to a vessel where the cyclonic effect within the vessel facilitates the separation of the gas from the shale debris. The separated shale debris and fluid falls to a jet assembly whereby it encounters a jet communicating a fluid therethrough. A venturi provides a motive force to the shale debris and fluid sufficient to propel it into a collection bin. The shale-gas separator incorporates a fluid bypass overflow line to prevent a buildup of fluid within the vessel. The shale-gas separator also incorporates an internal aerated cushion system (IACS) pipe for further motivating the shale debris and into the jet assembly, to ensure the walls of the vessel are clean, and to provide an air cushion restricting gas migration to the jet assembly.
US08784543B2 Non-seizing tapers for use in purged connections of capillary tubing used in gas chromatography
A non-seizing taper used for purged capillary tubing connections in gas chromatography that stops capillary tubing at a predictable position within the taper during installation and maintains space for gas to flow past the capillary tubing. The disclosed taper is an improved component of commonly used purged devices such as inlet liners and purged unions. The arresting aspect of the taper simplifies the process of capillary tubing installation while ensuring that the tubing will reproducibly be positioned in the taper. One or more features of the taper prevent tubing from seizing within the taper so that the devices can be reused and ensure that there is open space for a portion of gas to flow around and past the tubing. The angle of the taper, the dimensions of the taper, and the nature of the features within the taper can be adjusted to meet specific performance, usability and/or manufacturability requirements.
US08784540B2 Systems and methods of dust mitigation
There is provided an exemplary dust trap and a system and method for filtering air. An exemplary dust trap comprises a housing with an air intake. The exemplary dust trap also comprises a plurality of screens disposed within the housing downstream of the air intake and configured to pass air and capture airborne contaminants, wherein the screens are configured to provide an unscreened air passage between the screens.
US08784534B2 Pressure-temperature swing adsorption process
A pressure-temperature swing adsorption process for the removal of a target species, such as an acid gas, from a gas mixture, such as a natural gas stream. Herein, a novel multi-step temperature swing/pressure swing adsorption is utilized to operate while maintaining very high purity levels of contaminant removal from a product stream. The present process is particularly effective and beneficial in removing contaminants such as CO2 and/or H2S from a natural gas at high adsorption pressures (e.g., at least 500 psig) to create product streams of very high purity (i.e., very low contaminant levels).
US08784532B2 Sorbent regeneration in a heated hollow-fiber assembly
Methods and apparatus relate to recovery of carbon dioxide and/or hydrogen sulfide from a gas mixture. Separating of the carbon dioxide, for example, from the gas mixture utilizes a liquid sorbent for the carbon dioxide. The liquid sorbent contacts the gas mixture for transfer of the carbon dioxide from the gas mixture to the liquid sorbent. The carbon dioxide then desorbs from the liquid sorbent using hollow-fiber contactors as a source of heat to liberate the carbon dioxide further separated by the hollow-fiber contactors from the liquid sorbent.
US08784530B2 Organic fertilizer
The invention relates to organic fertilizers that satisfy the standards in both the United States and the European Union to be labeled as organic. The organic fertilizer comprises oilseed extract and/or corn steep liquor in combination with whey and/or other protein supplements, which provide a natural, nitrate free, nitrogen to the fertilizer.
US08784524B2 Duct vent filter cover
A duct filter bag used in connection with a heating and air conditioning vent, the duct filter bag including a filter body constructed of a material that is air permeable yet catches particles exiting the vent, the filter body having a perimeter; an attachment assembly connected to the filter body; where the filter body is extendable outward relative to the attachment assembly to define a filter volume; the attachment assembly being adapted to attach the filter body such that the filter volume is in registry with the vent.
US08784523B2 Air cleaner replaceable filter cartridges; and, methods
An air cleaner assembly, a main filter element, a safety element, combinations and methods for servicing an air cleaner assembly are provided according to the present invention. The air cleaner assembly includes an air cleaner housing and a main filter element. The air cleaner housing includes a safety liner that supports the main filter element, and can be configured to help reduce the tendency of the main filter element to rotate during use of the air cleaner assembly. A safety element having two open ends, for use with such an assembly is described.
US08784522B2 Air filter system and filter element
An air filter system (30) includes a filter housing (10) with a filter element (1) received within the housing. A secondary housing is secured to and closing the filter housing. The secondary housing includes a locking element operable to engage the filter housing and the filter element. The filter element (1) includes at least one fastening element (7) wherein the locking element (22) of the secondary housing (20) engages the at least one fastening element (7) in such a way, when the filter element (1) is accommodated in the filter housing (10) and is disposed between the filter housing (10) and the secondary housing (20), that the secondary housing (20) is detachably clamped to the filter housing (10).
US08784520B2 Methods of functionalizing microscale diamond particles
Methods of treating a plurality of particles involve functionalizing a plurality of microscale diamond particles by covalently bonding one or more molecular groups selected from OH functional groups, —COOH functional groups, —R—COOH functional groups, wherein R includes alkyls, -Ph-COOH functional groups, wherein Ph includes phenolics, polymers, oligomers, monomers, glycols, sugars, ionic functional groups, metallic functional groups, and organo-metallic functional groups to outer surfaces of at least some particles of the plurality of microscale diamond particles. A stability of the functionalized plurality of microscale diamond particles in dispersion is increased as compared to a plurality of microscale diamond particles that has not been functionalized.
US08784519B2 Vitrious bonded abbrasive
A vitrified superabrasive product includes a superabrasive component and a vitrified bond component in which the superabrasive component is dispersed. The vitrified bond includes an oxide of a lanthanoid. Additionally, the vitrified bond component defines pores that can be essentially all less than 800 μm in diameter. Seventy percent of the pores are in a range of between about 40 μm and about 500 μm and have an average aspect ratio less than about 2. The porosity is in a range of between about 50% and about 90% of the total volume of the superabrasive product.
US08784518B2 Method of making polyurethane foam
Herein are disclosed an apparatus and method for reaction injection molding of polyurethane foam. In the method, a recirculation loop containing polyols along with an effective amount of water, and a recirculation loop containing isocyanates, are each partially evacuated.
US08784515B2 In-situ coke removal
A process of catalytic partial oxidation of a hydrocarbon fuel with an oxidant to produce partially-oxidized reaction products including hydrogen, with simultaneous in-situ coke removal. The process involves feeding a hydrocarbon fuel and an oxidant to a reactor in a fuel-rich feed ratio; reacting the fuel and oxidant for a fuel-rich cycle-time so as to produce a partially-oxidized reaction product; varying the fuel feed, or the oxidant feed, or both feeds to produce a fuel-lean feed to the reactor; maintaining the fuel-lean feed for a fuel-lean cycle-time sufficient to reduce coke deposits while maintaining a substantially constant yield of partially-oxidized reaction product; and alternating between the fuel-rich and fuel-lean operating cycles.
US08784514B1 Carpet fuel processing boiler
The present invention relates generally to the production of energy and the reclaimation of carpet waste material. More particularly, the invention relates to a method and system for storing and using post industrial and post consumer carpet as fuel in an energy generation process and for producing at least one recyclable carpet waste material.
US08784512B2 Thin film battery synthesis by directed vapor deposition
The present invention relates to methods for forming one or more thin film layers on a substrate, to form a multilayer product such as a lithium battery cell. The method involves passing a gas stream comprising at least one doping agent and at least one entrained source material through a plasma; impinging the gas stream on a substrate; and reactively depositing the at least one doping agent, and the at least one entrained source material on the substrate. The present invention provides a method of fabricating a power cell having a plurality of layers, and a method of fabricating a battery by electrically connecting a current collecting layer of a first power cell to a current collecting layer of a second power cell.
US08784509B2 Composition for enhancing the production of crystal agglomerates from a precipitation liquor
The present invention relates to compositions and methods to increase the output of a high quality product from the precipitation liquor crystallization process exemplified through the aluminum hydroxide recovery processes such as the Bayer process. The invention is a method of increasing the size of precipitates from a liquor. The invention in one embodiment relates to the use of a crystal growth modifier compositions added to the precipitation process to increase the particle size distribution of the precipitated alumina trihydrate.
US08784504B2 Carpet cleaning method
A method of cleaning a carpet surface comprises the steps of simultaneously dispensing a cleaning composition and an oxidizing composition that enhances the cleanability of the cleaning composition from separate first and second chambers onto the carpet surface and recovering a soiled cleaning solution from the carpet.
US08784495B2 Segmental knee arthroplasty
A method for unicompartmental knee replacement. Replacement of a medial or lateral compartment may be through a limited incision and patellofemoral replacement may be through the same incision or another incision. An embodiment may include a trochlear implant and medial implant. Implants may be dimensioned and configured so that bone is located between the implants. Implants may be modular, being assembled inside the body or outside the body prior to implantation.
US08784493B2 Intervertebral cage and implanting apparatus and operating method thereof
An intervertebral cage, an implanting apparatus and an operating method thereof are provided. The intervertebral cage for being implanted between two adjacent vertebral bodies includes a body and a connecting portion. The body has a lateral convex surface, an inclined surface, a lateral concave surface and a connecting surface connected sequentially. The connecting portion includes a main portion and a protrusion. The main portion connected to the connecting surface has a through hole. The protrusion is protruded from the main portion into the through hole to form first and second inner arc surfaces. The maximum width of the intervertebral cage is a distance between first and second lines. The first and second lines are substantially parallel to a tangent line of the lateral convex surface and the first line, respectively. The distance between the inclined surface and the first line decreases gradually along a direction away from the connecting portion.
US08784489B2 Method and apparatus for graft fixation
An apparatus and method for performing a surgery, especially an ACL replacement surgery, where a flexible strand insertion rod co-operates with a U-Guide apparatus to insert a flexible strand into a tunnel formed in a bone portion and to guide a pair of drill points to form a pair of tunnels transversely to the tunnel of the insertion rod. The drill points are guided through the insertion rod and the flexible strand is held over the drill points as the transverse tunnels are formed. The insertion rod is then removed from the tunnels formed in the bone and the flexible strand is held looped over the second drill point. Subsequently, a soft tissue replacement is affixed to one end of the flexible strand and pulled over up to the first drill point with the other end of the flexible strand. The first drill point is then used to pull a cross pin through the transverse tunnel to hold the looped end of the soft tissue replacement in place. Finally, the two free ends of the soft tissue replacement are affixed to the bone completing the implantation of a soft tissue replacement.
US08784488B2 Nasal implant introduced through a non-surgical injection technique
A method for non-surgically treating an internal nasal valve of a patient comprising, injecting a working device into the internal nasal valve of the patient, wherein the injected working device in the nasal tissue causes an alteration of an internal or external nasal valve. A device introduced by injection into the nose, allowing for structural support or filling of defects in the nose, and causing a change in external shape of the nose. The device and inserts and implants described also have use in cosmetic applications relating to the facial tissue.
US08784473B2 Endoprosthesis with filament repositioning or retrieval member and guard structure
An endoprosthesis includes a stent structure having an elongate member longitudinal portions of which overlap to define the crossover structures. The stent structure may also include loop structures, which are contiguous with the crossover structures, through which a filament extends. A guard structure is secured to the stent structure and located adjacent to the crossover structures to obstruct displacement of the filament between the longitudinal portions of the elongate member of the crossover structures. A method for operating the endoprosthesis includes displacing the loop structures toward one another along the filament to displaced positions relative to the suture structure for reducing the respective profiles of the stent structure and patch structure.
US08784472B2 Clutch driven stent delivery system
A catheter assembly has an engaged state and an unengaged state comprising a proximal member having a longitudinal axis and a distal member having a longitudinal axis. A distal end of the proximal member is removably engageable to the distal member. The distal member has a first distal portion and a second distal portion, and the first distal portion is retractable from the second distal portion. In the engaged state the distal member is substantially freely rotatable about its longitudinal axis and in relation to the proximal member. In the engaged state the proximal member is constructed and arranged to be moved in a direction along the longitudinal axis such that proximal movement of the proximal member retracts at least the first distal portion of the distal member from at least the second distal portion.
US08784471B2 Blood vessel prosthesis and delivery apparatus
A method is described for delivering a prosthesis to a branch region of a blood vessel, the branch region having first and second blood vessel branches, the prosthesis comprising a main conduit and first and second branch conduits. The method includes inserting a first guide wire in the blood vessel such that it extends through the blood vessel into the first blood vessel branch; inserting a second guide wire in the blood vessel such that it extends through the blood vessel into the second blood vessel branch; moving the prosthesis to the branch region by moving the first branch conduit along the first guide wire and the second branch conduit along the second guide wire; and moving the first/second branch conduit along the first/second guide wire from a first position in which they project inside the main conduit to a second position in which they project out from the main conduit.
US08784468B2 Stent delivery systems and locking members for use with stent delivery systems
Stent delivery systems, locking members for preventing unwanted actuation of a actuation member on a stent delivery system, and methods for making and using the same are disclosed. An example stent delivery system may include an inner member. A deployment sheath may be disposed about the inner member. A stent may be disposed between the inner member and the deployment sheath. A handle may be coupled to the inner member and to the deployment sheath. The handle may include an actuation member. The actuation member may be configured to shift the longitudinal position of the deployment sheath relative to the inner member. A locking member may be disposed on the actuation member. The locking member may be configured to prevent unwanted actuation of the actuation member.
US08784466B2 Stent delivery system
Disclosed is an apparatus for delivery of a stent for a vessel used for implanting the stent for a vessel in the blood vessel. The delivery system includes a protective sheath (1), inserted into the vessel of a living body, a catheter (2) inserted for back-and-forth movement in the protective sheath (1), a balloon (4) arranged on the outer peripheral surface towards the distal end side of the catheter (2), configured to be protruded from the distal end of the protective sheath (1), so that the balloon is expanded by a fluid supplied to the catheter (2), and a stent for a vessel (5) formed of a biodegradable material. The stent for a vessel (5) is mounted in a state contracted in diameter on the balloon (4) and is moved back and forth along with the balloon (4) relative to the protective sheath (1). The stent for a vessel has at least one end part temporarily held by a temporary holding member (23).
US08784465B2 Implantable medical devices
A medical device includes a balloon catheter having an expandable member, e.g., an inflatable balloon, at its distal end and a stent or other endoprosthesis. The stent is, for example, an apertured tubular member formed of a polymer and is assembled about the balloon. The stent has an initial diameter for delivery into the body and can be expanded to a larger diameter by inflating the balloon.
US08784460B2 Microcurrent device with a sensory cue
The present invention is directed to an apparatus that includes a microcurrent delivery device portion and at least one independent sensory cue delivery means. The independent sensory cue delivery means can provide an independent sensory cue selected from the group consisting of vibration, heat, cool, skin irritation, tingling, fragrance or auditory.
US08784457B2 Implant for correcting skeletal mechanics
Deformities present on the end of a bone, for example the end of the metatarsal bone making up part of the metatarsocuneiform joint, can lead to deformities such as bunions. These deformities are treatable with an implant that comprises a plate with a wedge extending perpendicular from the plate. Following removal of cartilage from the joint, deformed portions at the end of the bone are removed and the wedge is inserted in the joint and held in place when the plate is attached to the bones flanking the joint. This effectively fuses the two bones together. The wedge can be shaped in various ways depending on the particular deformity present.
US08784453B1 Dynamic spinal stabilization system
A dynamic spinal stabilization system that enables spinal movements throughout a range of motions from a neutral condition of the spine, to a flexion condition, and an extension condition. The system includes elastomeric members operatively located to substantially eliminate metal-to-metal contact of metal components of the system that are movable relative to one another, one of the elastomeric members having a stepped configuration.
US08784452B2 Transconnector
A transconnector for joining adjacent longitudinal spinal rods. The transconnector preferably includes a bridge member and a pair of bone fixation coupling elements, the bridge member is preferably sized and configured to span a distance between the pair of bone fixation coupling elements. The bone fixation coupling elements are preferably sized and configured to engage the bridge member and sized and configured to receive one of the bone fixation elements. The bone fixation coupling elements are preferably sized and configured to engage the body portion of the bone fixation element. The bone fixation coupling elements may include a locking cap having a first set of threads for threadably engaging the bone fixation element.
US08784450B2 Interarticulating spinous and transverse process staples for spinal fusion
Thoracic/lumbar and cervical spinous process staples which staple/fuse adjacent spinous processes are disclosed. Thoracic/lumbar transverse process staples which staple/fuse adjacent transverse processes are also disclosed. Each embodiment has upper and lower claws connected by a ratchet spring mechanism, along with a multiplicity of bone fastener prongs attached to the upper and lower claws. Two sets of prongs on each staple claw are spaced by a distance approximately equal to the distance separating adjacent spinous or transverse processes so as to facilitate stapling/fusion of two adjacent processes. Also disclosed are staple prongs with multiple perforations which enable incorporation of bone fusion material thereby facilitating stapling/fusion of spinal elements.
US08784449B2 Method and apparatus for attaching soft tissue to bone
A method of connecting a suture to a bone including the steps of inserting at least one suture anchor into the bone, and disposing a suture loop about a crossbar of the suture anchor in such a way that when a proximally directed force is applied to the suture loop, a free end of the crossbar engages a transverse edge of the body of the suture anchor to limit proximal motion of the crossbar and capture the suture loop.
US08784448B2 Patent foramen ovale (PFO) closure device with radial and circumferential support
The present invention provides a device for occluding an anatomical aperture, such as a septal defect or patent foramen ovale (PFO). The occluder includes two sides connected by an intermediate joint. Each of the sides includes at least one elongate element, which is arranged to form non-overlapping loops. Each loop has at least one radially-extending segment that is adjacent to a radially-extending segment of another loop. In at least some embodiments, at least one pair of adjacent radially-extending segments is connected. In some embodiments, at least one of the sides includes a tissue scaffold. When the occluder is deployed in vivo, the two sides are disposed on opposite sides of the septal tissue surrounding the aperture, thereby exerting a compressive force on the septal tissue that is distributed along both the outer periphery of the occluder and the radially-extending segments.
US08784446B1 Circumferentially offset variable porosity devices
An implantable device for treating a vascular cavity or vascular malformation may include a plurality of wires woven to form a textile structure expandable from a compressed state to an expanded state. The textile structure may have a longitudinal axis and may include, in the expanded state, a first longitudinal segment, a second longitudinal segment, and a lumen configured to allow perfusion of blood through the textile structure parallel to the longitudinal axis. The first longitudinal segment may include a first circumferential portion including a first braid angle and a second circumferential portion opposite the first circumferential portion and including a second braid angle greater than the first braid angle. At least one of the first longitudinal segment and the second longitudinal segment may comprise a bulb.
US08784441B2 Embolectomy catheters and methods for treating stroke and other small vessel thromboembolic disorders
Embolectomy catheters, rapid exchange microcatheters, systems and methods for removing clots or other obstructive matter (e.g., thrombus, thromboemboli, embolic fragments of atherosclerotic plaque, foreign objects, etc.) from blood vessels. This invention is particularly useable for percutaneous removal of thromboemboli or other obstructive matter from small blood vessels of the brain, during an evolving stroke or period of cerebral ischemia. In some embodiments, the embolectomy catheters of this invention are advanceable with or over a guidewire which has been pre-inserted through or around the clot. Also, in some embodiments, the embolectomy catheters include clot removal devices which are deployable from the catheter after the catheter has been advanced at least partially through the clot. The clot removal device may include a deployable wire nest that is designed to prevent a blood clot from passing therethrough. The delivery catheter may include telescoping inner and outer tubes, with the clot removal device being radially constrained by the outer tube. Retraction of the outer tube removes the constraint on the clot removal device and permits it to expand to its deployed configuration. An infusion guidewire is particularly useful in conjunction with the embolectomy catheter, and permits infusion of medicaments or visualization fluids distal to the clot.
US08784438B2 Perforation suturing method
A perforation suturing method has the steps of: inserting a needle into a wall of a hollow organ at a periphery of the perforation formed in the hollow organ, and piercing the wall; withdrawing the needle from the wall after delivery of an anchor attaching suture thread from the needle, and having the suture thread transit the wall; and tightening the suture thread so that the mated insertion points at the time of insertion of the needle into the wall approximately coincide after having the needle pierce the wall at the periphery of the perforation a plurality of times, and making surfaces of the wall where the insertion points are formed coincide with each other.
US08784437B2 Methods and devices for endosonography-guided fundoplexy
The present invention relates to a tissue securement system, device and method for endoscopy or endosonography-guided transluminal interventions whereby a ligation or anchor is placed and secured into soft tissue. An objective of this invention is to provide a method to reduce gastroesophageal reflux by endosonography-guided intervention. Specifically, endosonography is used to insert a ligation element through the esophageal wall, through the diaphragmatic crus and into the fundus of the stomach. This ligation element placed from the esophagus and around the Angle of His to create a barrier to gastroesophageal reflux.
US08784435B2 Surgical system entry guide
An entry guide tube and cannula assembly, a surgical system including the assembly, and a method of surgical instrument insertion are provided. In one embodiment, the assembly includes a cannula having a proximal portion that operably couples to an accessory clamp of a manipulator arm, and a distal tubular member coupled to the proximal portion, the tubular member having an opening for passage of at least one instrument shaft. The assembly also includes an entry guide tube rotatably coupled to the proximal portion of the cannula, the entry guide tube including a plurality of channels for passage of a plurality of instrument shafts, wherein the entry guide tube is rotatably driven relative to the proximal portion of the cannula by rotation of at least one instrument shaft about a longitudinal axis of the entry guide tube.
US08784428B2 Device for measuring the degree of bending of an intramedullary nail
A device for measuring a degree of bending of an intramedullary nail comprises a probe sized and shaped for insertion into a cannulation of an intramedullary nail. The probe including a first longitudinal element extending along a longitudinal axis from a distal end to a proximal end and a second longitudinal element extending along a longitudinal axis from a distal end to a proximal end, the distal ends of the first and second longitudinal elements attached to one another so that the longitudinal axes of the first and second longitudinal elements extend substantially parallel to each other and define a middle plane. A measuring element measures relative axial displacement of the proximal ends of the first and second longitudinal elements in the middle plane upon bending of the first and second longitudinal elements as the probe is inserted into a cannulation of the intramedullary nail.
US08784421B2 Apparatus and methods for removing vertebral bone and disc tissue
Tissue removal probes comprise an elongated member, a drive shaft rotatably disposed within the member, and a rotatable tissue removal element mounted to the distal end of the drive shaft. One tissue removal element comprises a plurality of tissue-cutting filaments affixed at proximal and distal ends of the tissue removal element. The cutting filaments may have optional hinge points that allow the distal end of the tissue removal element to be inverted, thereby transforming the tissue removal element from a tissue-cutting device to a tissue-grasping device. Another tissue removal element may have a blunted tip to prevent distal tissue trauma and an irrigation port to provide irrigation fluid to the removed tissue and/or tissue removal element. Another tissue removal element has a proximal and distal spiral grooves that are oppositely pitched, so that removed tissue can be collected in the middle of the tissue removal element.
US08784420B2 Surgical instruments for cutting elongated elements and methods of use
A surgical instrument for cutting an elongated element. The surgical instrument may have a compact size for use in-situ during a surgical procedure. The surgical instrument is also configured to provide the necessary mechanical advantage to cut the elongated element. The surgical instrument may include first and second arms that are pivotally connected together at a pivot. The arms include blades positioned at or towards distal ends of the arms that act together to cut the elongated element. A force mechanism is positioned between the arms to pivot the arms between an open orientation and a closed cutting orientation. The force mechanism may be positioned directly between the arms to reduce the overall size of the instrument.
US08784415B2 Powered surgical tool with an isolation circuit connected between the tool power terminals and the memory internal to the tool
A surgical tool system with a powered tool that includes a memory in which data describing the characteristics of the power signals that are to be sourced to the toll are stored. A control console based on the data in the tool memory sources the power signal to the tool. Both the data signals written out from the tool memory and the power signals from the console are exchanged over common console terminals and common tool terminals. An isolation circuit in the tool prevents the applied power signals from the console from adversely effecting the tool memory.
US08784403B2 Wax micro actuator
An actuator comprises a cavity containing a working medium that reversibly expands as it undergoes a phase change from a solid to a liquid state, a diaphragm disposed adjacent the cavity such that expansion and contraction of the expandable working medium causes the diaphragm to deflect, and a semiconductor element disposed in the cavity, wherein the semiconductor element is adapted to heat the working medium to cause it to undergo the phase change into the liquid state. The actuator may be used in a pump for an infusion system.
US08784397B2 (Batman) disposable absorbent article having leg wraps and method of making same
A leg wrap structure is provided in a disposable absorbent garment such as a diaper or training pants. The leg wrap structure has a base layer, a top layer, and an elastic construction disposed therebetween. The elastic construction includes a plurality of spaced apart (e.g. generally equally spaced apart) elastic elements (e.g. strands or threads) that are aligned in a generally in generally parallel relation. Further, the top and base layers define a region of inelasticity. The leg wrap structure provides for the efficient formation of a reservoir and a plurality of fluid dams each capable of capturing a quantity of fluid to minimize the occurrence of fluid leaks from the absorbent article. Methods of forming such absorbent articles are disclosed.
US08784393B2 Dressing
A dressing (30), a grommet (10) and a combination thereof are described for making a dressing for use in locating and retaining conduits and/or tubes used in therapy of a wound is described, the dressing (30) comprising a backing layer (32) having an adhesive coating (34) thereon for adhering the dressing (30) to a patient; the backing layer (32) having a cut-out (48) therein for receiving a grommet member (10); said grommet member (10) having at least one aperture (14) therethrough for receiving a conduit; and, said grommet member (10) further comprising a flange portion (16) in some embodiments for attaching the grommet member (10) to said adhesive coated backing layer (32).
US08784392B2 System for providing continual drainage in negative pressure wound therapy
A system for subatmospheric pressure therapy in connection with healing a wound is provided. The system includes a wound dressing cover dimensioned for positioning relative to a wound bed of a subject to establish a reservoir over the wound bed in which subatmospheric pressure may be maintained, a subatmospheric pressure mechanism including, a housing, a vacuum source disposed in the housing, and a collection canister in fluid communication with the vacuum source. The system further includes an exudate conduit in fluid communication with the wound dressing and the collection canister for collecting exudate removed from the reservoir and deposited in the collection canister under influence of the vacuum source and a vent conduit in fluid communication with the collection canister and the wound dressing for introducing air into the reservoir to facilitate flow of exudate through the exudate conduit.
US08784385B2 Frozen piercing implements and methods for piercing a substrate
Certain embodiments disclosed herein relate to compositions, methods, devices, systems, and products regarding frozen particles. In certain embodiments, the frozen particles include materials at low temperatures. In certain embodiments, the frozen particles provide vehicles for delivery of particular agents. In certain embodiments, the frozen particles are administered to at least one biological tissue.
US08784384B2 Frozen compositions and array devices thereof
Certain embodiments disclosed herein relate to compositions, methods, devices, systems, and products regarding frozen particles. In certain embodiments, the frozen particles include materials at low temperatures. In certain embodiments, the frozen particles provide vehicles for delivery of particular agents. In certain embodiments, the frozen particles are administered to at least one biological tissue.
US08784382B2 Hollow curved superelastic medical needle and method
A needle assembly 10 compromising an infusion needle 11 that includes a needle cannula 13 made of a superelastic material such as Nitinol. The needle cannula is cold-worked or heat annealed to produce a preformed bend 16 that can be straightened within passageway 21 of a coaxial outer cannula 12 for introduction into the body of a patient. Upon deployment from the outer cannula, the needle cannula substantially returns to the preformed configuration for the introduction or extraction of materials at areas lateral to the entry path of the needle assembly. The needle assembly can compromise a plurality of needle cannulae than can be variably arranged or configured for attaining a desired infusion pattern.
US08784381B2 Drug injection device with acceleration sensor for detecting abnormal operation
A drug injection device includes a main body case having an injection needle let-in/let-out opening, a drug syringe mounting component that is provided inside the main body case and in which a drug syringe is mounted, a piston that is movable with respect to the drug syringe mounting component, a drive mechanism that drives the piston, a controller that is electrically connected to the drive mechanism, and an acceleration sensor that is electrically connected to the controller. This drug injection device allows the injection of a drug to be carried out safely and properly.
US08784374B2 Disposable self-destructive syringe
The present invention discloses a disposable self-destructive syringe, which belongs to syringes for medical treatment, comprises a needle (1), a tube (2), a injecting piston-rod (3), ratchet grooves (4), a restrictive step (5), an installation opening (6), an anti-return member (7), anti-return prods (8), ratchets (9), a sealing plug (10) and a reciprocal motion region (11). The needle is conglutinated on the tube, the injecting piston-rod is arranged in the tube, the anti-return member is arranged in the gap of the injecting piston-rod and in the rear end of the tube, and the sealing plug is arranged in the tube and mounted on the front end of the injecting piston-rod. The syringe is convenient to discharge the inhaled air as sucking medical liquid, begins to be self-destructive after sucking for predetermined amount and can not suck medical liquid again during and after injecting. Furthermore, the ratchet grooves arranged on the injecting piston-rod can be one or more, which the fewer the number of ratchet grooves, the larger the interval of discharging inhaled air will become. The disposable self-destructive syringe according to the invention of which dose is precise is convenient to operate and will be self-destructive once used.
US08784368B2 Device, system, and method for targeted delivery of anti-inflammatory medicaments to a mammalian subject
A device, a system, or a method is described for treating a disease or a condition of one or more joints of articulating bone in a mammalian subject. The device provides one or more medicaments to one or more joints of the mammalian subject. A device is described that includes one or more sheaths configured to contact one or more body contours in proximity to one or more joints of articulating bone of a mammalian subject; one or more sensors configured to detect one or more physiological conditions of the one or more joints; and one or more applicators supported by the one or more sheaths and configured to respond to the one or more sensors by injecting one or more medicaments to the one or more joint tissues of the mammalian subject.
US08784364B2 Systems and methods for fluid delivery
A system for at least partial closed-loop control of a medical condition is disclosed. The system includes at least one medical fluid pump. The medical fluid pump including a sensor for determining the volume of fluid pumped by the pump. Also, at least one continuous analyte monitor, and a controller. The controller is in communication with the medical fluid pump and the at least one continuous analyte monitor. The controller includes a processor. The processor includes instructions for delivery of medical fluid based at least on data received from the at least one continuous analyte monitor.
US08784361B2 Combined coaxial and bimanual irrigation/aspiration apparatus
In one exemplary aspect, the present disclosure is directed to an assembly having an irrigation hand piece that includes an irrigation needle extending from a distal end. The irrigation needle is also configured to release a first fluid. The assembly further has an aspiration hand piece that includes an aspiration needle extending from a distal end. The aspiration needle has an axis and is configured to aspirate a second fluid into the assembly. The assembly has a first configuration in which the irrigation hand piece and aspiration hand piece are coupled together in a manner that causes the released first fluid from the assembly to flow coaxially about the axis of the aspiration needle and a second configuration in which the irrigation hand piece and aspiration hand piece are uncoupled which causes the released first fluid to flow substantially non-coaxial with respect to the axis of the aspiration needle.
US08784355B2 Methods and systems for establishing retrograde carotid arterial blood flow
Interventional procedures on the carotid arteries are performed through a transcervical access while retrograde blood flow is established from the internal carotid artery to a venous or external location. A system for use in accessing and treating a carotid artery includes an arterial access device, a shunt fluidly connected to the arterial access device, and a flow control assembly coupled to the shunt and adapted to regulate blood flow through the shunt between at least a first blood flow state and at least a second blood flow state. The flow control assembly includes one or more components that interact with the blood flow through the shunt.
US08784351B2 Compression garment
A compression garment has panels of elasticized fabric joined by seams of flat lock stitching to define, when worn, specific areas of compression, areas of compression being the perineum, caesarian wound area and rectus abdominus muscles or the perineum and the pelvic joints.
US08784349B1 Knee brace
A knee brace for use by athletes or others requiring protection and support of the knee. The knee brace protects against abnormal motions of the knee, and provides direct and indirect patella stabilization. A base comprised of elastic material is configured to closely fit around portions of the knee and adjacent leg portions. The knee brace includes at least one upright support member attached to a lateral side of the base, where the upright support member is curved with an upper portion bending away from the front central axis of the brace and a lower portion that bends toward the front central axis of the brace.
US08784348B2 Splint assembly for positioning of the hand
A hand splint includes a forearm component, a strut mounted on the forearm component, and a hand component mounted on the strut such that a spacing is defined between the hand component and the forearm component. The hand component is configured to receive the volar surface of at least one of the digits of a user's hand and may include a resilient section for generating a continuous restoring force in response to bending.
US08784346B2 Portable ambulant pneumatic compression system
An automatic portable ambulant miniaturized system for applying pneumatic pressure to a body limb including a portable ambulant hand-held fluid source unit, a conduit for delivering fluid generated by the unit, and a sleeve coupled to the conduit and adapted to envelop a body limb. The sleeve contains one or more individually inflatable cells, each cell being subdivided into two or more longitudinally extending confluent compartments along the axis of the body limb. The compartments are inflated and deflated essentially simultaneously by the portable fluid source unit.
US08784342B2 Shape sensing clothes to inform the wearer of a condition
A garment may be configured with one or more sensors and circuitry to communicate information related to a physiological condition to the user.
US08784341B2 Tongue depressor with a force/pressure sensing element
A body force measurement system for both assessment and therapeutic usage comprising a non-rigid tongue depressor with a force sensing element attached to it and a means of converting the force sensed into quantifiable data. The system provides convenient method for making body force measurements consistent with current clinical practice and without the need for a fixed registration point.
US08784338B2 Electrical means to normalize ablational energy transmission to a luminal tissue surface of varying size
Methods and devices for measuring the size of a body lumen and a method for ablating tissue that uses the measurement to normalize delivery of ablational energy from an expandable operative element to a luminal target of varying circumference are provided. The method includes inserting into the lumen an expandable operative element having circuitry with resistivity or inductance that varies according to the circumference of the operative element, varying the expansion of the operative element with an expansion medium, measuring the resistivity of the circuitry, and relating the resistivity or inductance to a value for the circumference of the operative element. In some embodiments the sizing circuit includes a conductive elastomer wrapped around the operative element. Other embodiments of the method apply to operative elements that include an overlapping energy delivery element support in which the overlap varies inversely with respect to the state of expansion, and which is configured with sizing electrodes that sense the amount of the overlap.
US08784332B2 System for transcutaneous monitoring of intracranial pressure
A system for measuring and converting to an observer intelligible form an internal physiological parameter of a patient. The invention allows transcutaneous telemetry of intracranial pressure via a system which includes a patient implanted sensor module and an external processing module, optically coupled to the sensor module via an external coupling module. A sensor within the sensor module transduces the measured pressure and a near infrared emitter transmits the telemetry when interrogated by the external coupling module. A set of tuned inductor-crystal circuits comprised in part of a cylindrical crystal oscillator whose resonant frequency is sensed by a dipper circuit arrangement is provided. Power for the sensor module is derived inductively through rectification of a transcutaneously-applied high-frequency alternating electromagnetic field generated within the external coupling module. A computer within the processing module calculates the physiological parameter from the telemetry signal and represents this data in numerical, graphical, or analog format.
US08784331B2 Method and device for determining the hydrodynamics of the cerebrospinal fluid system
The present invention relates to a method and a device for determining the hydro-dynamic properties of the fluid system surrounding the brain and the spinal cord, the so called cerebrospinal fluid system, whereby the method comprises continuous pressure measurement through a fluid contact passage and active infusion of artificial cerebrospinal fluid through another fluid contact passage to a number of pressure-flow levels, and analysis of the connections between the measured pressures and flows. The method uses an adaptive way of procedure which on each pressure-flow level takes account for the measure time and the patient's fluctuations in physiologic signals for calculating in real time when the relation between the measure time and measure accuracy in pressure and flow on the actual pressure-flow level is sufficient and at an optimum, whereupon the investigation or examination is automatically proceeding to the next level according to a predetermined protocol. In this way, the method gives rise to an investigation with measurements having sufficient pressure and flow information on each level, which forms a base for determination in a correct manner, with an uncertainty estimate, of the patient's hydrodynamic parameters. The device comprises a hose pump (1) for infusion of artificial cerebrospinal fluid in a bottle or bag (2), a standardized hose set including a pump hose (3) and pressure transducers (4) for continuous registration of the intracranial pressure, an invasive contact object (5) for creating fluid contact with the cerebrospinal fluid system and consisting of needles or a catheter, as well as a computer (12) with software for computerized collection and analysis as well as control of pump speed. The device uses a computerized implementation of the above-mentioned adaptive method in order to systematically and safely carry through a standardized protocol which generates pressure and flow information which the software of the measure system then uses for determining in real time and with an uncertainty estimate, the hydrodynamic parameters of the system.
US08784330B1 Insulated pedicle access system and related methods
A pedicle access system including a cannula, a stylet, and a removable T-handle. The pedicle access system may be used to percutaneously approach the pedicle, initiate pilot hole formation, and conduct a stimulation signal to the target site for the purposes of performing a pedicle integrity assessment during the pilot hole formation. To do this, the cannula and stylet are locked in combination and inserted through an operating corridor to the pedicle target site, using the T-handle to facilitate easy movement and positioning of the cannula/stylet combination. A stimulation signal may be applied during pilot hole formation to conduct the pedicle integrity assessment. In a significant aspect, the T-handle may be detached from the cannula/stylet combination to facilitate the use of various surgical tools as necessary.
US08784322B2 Apparatus and method of sensing sleeping condition of user
A method and apparatus for sensing a sleeping condition of a user, including measuring a physiological signal of a user who is sleeping, determining whether or not a predetermined motion artifact is contained in the measured physiological signal, and determining that the user goes into an awake state when the predetermined motion artifact is contained in the measured physiological signal.
US08784321B2 Imaging probe with combined ultrasound and optical means of imaging
The present invention provides an imaging probe for imaging mammalian tissues and structures using high resolution imaging, including high frequency ultrasound and optical coherence tomography. The imaging probes structures using high resolution imaging use combined high frequency ultrasound (IVUS) and optical imaging methods such as optical coherence tomography (OCT) and to accurate co-registering of images obtained from ultrasound image signals and optical image, signals during scanning a region of interest.
US08784320B2 Ultrasound garment
Disclosed is an ultrasound assembly. The ultrasound assembly includes a garment configured to be affixed to a portion of a living body, and at least one ultrasound transducer having a fixed position on the garment and configured to provide at least one of: produce and receive, ultrasound signals that pass through the living body. The ultrasound assembly further includes an ultrasound processing unit operatively associated with the at least one ultrasound transducer and configured to process the ultrasound signals following passage through the living body, and an ultrasound-interface unit operatively associated with the ultrasound processing unit and configured to provide information with respect to the ultrasound signals following passage through the living body.
US08784319B2 Ultrasonic probe and ultrasonic diagnostic device
An ultrasonic probe includes at least one transmission element layer for transmitting ultrasonic waves, at least one reception element layer for receiving ultrasonic waves and which is provided with an electrode on each of both surfaces opposed in a direction of a thickness thereof, and at least one matching layer for matching acoustic impedance. These layers are arranged in this order in a direction of transmitting the ultrasonic waves. The reception element layer is provided with a projecting portion projecting in a direction of elevation from upper and lower layers which sandwich the two electrodes respectively formed on both surfaces of the reception element layer, and at least one of the electrodes is formed by extending to the projecting portion.
US08784315B2 Ultrasound system for controlling power supplied from multiple power supplies
An ultrasound system, which operates at a plurality of diagnostic modes, includes: an ultrasound probe configured to transmit an ultrasound signal to a target object and receive an ultrasound echo signal reflected from the target object; a power supplying unit configured to supply a power of different voltage levels according to a diagnostic mode to form a transmit pulse signal to be supplied to the ultrasound probe; and a transmitting unit connected to the ultrasound probe and the power supplying unit, the transmitting unit being configured to constantly supply the power in a first voltage level at a transmission time period of an ultrasound signal and vary the voltage level of the power from the first voltage level to a second voltage level based on a predetermined waveform at a transmission idle time period.
US08784311B2 Systems and methods of screening for medical states using speech and other vocal behaviors
Systems and methods of screening for neurological and other diseases utilizing a subject's speech behavior are provided. According to one embodiment, a system is provided that includes an identification device used to determine a health state of a subject by receiving, as input to an interface of the device, one or more speech samples from the subject. The speech samples can be provided to the device by an intentional action of a user or passively due to the device being in the signal path of the subject's speech. The samples are communicated to a processor that identifies the acoustic measures of the samples and compares the acoustic measures of the samples with baseline acoustic measures stored in a memory of the device. The results of this determination can be communicated back to the subject or provided to a third party.
US08784309B2 Sensor fusion for activity identification
A mobile device monitors accelerations using one or more inertial sensors. A user activity is identified based on the accelerations. A first estimation is made of a user activity statistic associated with the user activity based on the accelerations. Location information is obtained by one or more location based sensors. A second estimation is made of the user activity statistic based on the location information. The user activity statistic is calculated based on the first estimation and the second estimation.
US08784307B1 Integrative biomechanical analysis
The invention is a method and system for functional biomechanical analysis. The analysis assesses the biomechanical relationships of the spine and adjacent regions in a dynamic state based on a patient's chief complaint and clinical presentation. The analysis calculates a value of function or impact for a particular spinal region.
US08784305B2 Tissue retractor and method of use
A method of retracting and/or manipulating tissue is provided. The method includes providing access to a body cavity, providing a retractor including a elongated body portion, a needle formed on a proximal end of the elongated body portion and an anchor means formed on a distal end of the elongated body portion, directing the needle of the retractor through a section of tissue to be retracted, drawing the retractor though the tissue until the anchor means engages the tissue, and pulling the body portion of the retractor to manipulate the tissue.
US08784304B2 Over-tube, method of manufacturing over-tube, method of disposing over-tube, and method of treatment in abdominal cavity
An over-tube for use in an endoscopic treatment in an abdominal cavity using an endoscope includes an over-tube main body which is inserted from a distal portion thereof via a natural opening in a patient's body to access the inside of the abdominal cavity from the distal portion through a lumen wall, and an internal cover which is disposed in a passage of the endoscope disposed in an inner cavity of the over-tube main body and which is extractable from a proximal portion of the over-tube main body.
US08784303B2 System for controlling an instrument using shape sensors
The present invention relates, generally, to controlling a steerable instrument having an elongate body. More particularly, the present invention relates to a system and method for sensing the shape of a steerable instrument and controlling the steerable instrument in response to a control signal from a user input device and a shape signal corresponding to the sensed shape of at least a portion of the steerable instrument. The present invention also relates to a system for sensing the shape of a flexible instrument with an optical shape sensor.
US08784300B2 Devices, systems, and methods for removing empyema from a pleural cavity
Pleural empyema removal devices are provided and enable the removal of empyema from the pleural cavity of a human or veterinary patient. The pleural empyema removal devices may be coupled with one or more additional devices, such as suction source, gas source, light source and/or camera source, and monitor. The devices and systems including the devices facilitate the removal of empyema from the pleural cavity of a patient while providing protections from damage to untargeted tissues. The devices, systems, and methods can be used in the treatment process to treat pleural empyema resulting from pleural effusions and infections stemming from various illnesses and disorders, such as pneumonia.
US08784297B2 Therapeutic devices for the treatment of various conditions of a female individual
This invention relates to devices targeted to resolving various conditions of a female patient in need thereof, the conditions being female sexual dysfunction and urinary incontinence. The present disclosure provides for a device which incorporates a variety of elements in an effort to treat certain conditions of a female individual in need thereof. Optionally, the device of the present invention may be used as prophylactic measure to prevent a condition selected from the group consisting of female sexual dysfunction and urinary incontinence.
US08784295B2 Sling assembly with secure and convenient attachment
Surgical articles that are conveniently and securely coupled are disclosed. Improved surgical procedures are also disclosed.
US08784291B2 Transseptal cannula, tip, delivery system, and method
A cannula assembly, further comprising a cannula body for directing blood from the heart of a patient, having distal and proximal ends and a lumen therebetween. A tip coupled to the distal end of the body, the tip having an opening. A pump for drawing blood into the cannula assembly and dispensing the blood from the cannula assembly and into the patient circulatory system. The lumen of the cannula body further comprises a first inner diameter at the proximal end and a second inner diameter at the distal end, the first inner diameter being larger than the second inner diameter. A tapered portion defined as a decrease in inner diameter from the first inner diameter to the second inner diameter between the proximal and distal ends, the tapered portion configured to prevent cavitation of the blood within the cannula.
US08784290B2 Heart treatment kit, system, and method for radiosurgically alleviating arrhythmia
Radiosurgical treatments of tissues of the heart mitigate arrhythmias and treat other tumerous and non-tumerous disease using an implanted fiducial positioned in or near the heart using cardiac catheterization techniques. The fiducials may be implanted after diagnostic and planning images of the target tissues have been acquired. Fiducial implantation may take place the day of a scheduled radiosurgical treatment. Techniques to accommodate post-planning fiducial implantation may include registration of the implanted fiducial location with the treatment plan, and active fiducials may limit collateral imaging radiation exposure while enhancing tracking accuracy.
US08784288B2 Pizza tray and forming assembly
A forming assembly and process for forming a carton from a carton blank are herein disclosed. The finished carton can have an odd number of sides and/or an angle between two adjacent sides that is less than 90 degrees. The forming assembly includes a forming head and a forming cavity. The forming head acts as an inner die and the forming cavity acts as an outer die. In addition, the forming cavity includes at least one cavity side plate that desirably folds tabs on the carton blank to secure the tabs to one another and form the finished carton.
US08784281B2 Weight lifting free fall restraint system
Generally, a weight lifting free fall restraint system which includes a support frame providing at least one free fall restraint element which, when coupled to a weight bar, retractably pays out a tether element in response to movement of the weight bar and restrains retractable pay out of the tether element in response to free fall of the weight bar.
US08784279B2 Pelvic clamp for back stretching
A pelvic clamp for back stretching is disclosed which provides temporary relief for low back pain by employing means for stretching the lumbar region. Embodiments which provide this means for stretching include a cam stop assembly, a block stop assembly, a slide panel assembly and a bend rod assembly. Each of these assemblies works by squeezing the sides of the pelvic region in order to hold it stationary while the user exerts pressure on assembly elements to force the upper torso away from the pelvic region.
US08784277B2 Exercise apparatus having a targeted fluid support system
An exercise stepper with a fluid resistance system guides stepper treadles angularly downward and outward from the center of the stepper. According to an embodiment bellows that support treadles angle downward and outward.
US08784276B2 Trampoline
Trampolines are disclosed herein. An embodiment of a trampoline includes a first support member having a plurality of portions and a second support member having a plurality of portions. A first support member first portion is aligned with a second support member second portion wherein the area between the first support member first portion and the second member first portion is a first plane. A first support member second portion is aligned with a second support member second portion wherein the area between the first support member second portion and the second support member second portion is a second plane. A single piece of first material substantially covers the first plane and the second plane. The first plane intersects the second plane at an angle less than one hundred eighty degrees.
US08784274B1 Athletic performance monitoring with body synchronization analysis
Methods and apparatuses for athletic performance monitoring with body synchronization analysis are disclosed. In one example, a first sensor output associated with a movement of an user foot and a second sensor output associated with a movement of an user arm are received, the user arm on a body side opposite the user foot. The first sensor output and the second sensor output are analyzed to identify a degree of synchronization between the movement of a user foot and the movement of a user arm.
US08784268B2 Athletic performance monitoring systems and methods in a team sports environment
Systems, apparatuses, and methods estimate the distance between a player and a ball by transmitting a chirp (sweep signal) to a radio tag located on the ball. During the chirp, the frequency of the transmitted signal is changed in a predetermined fashion. The radio tag doubles the transmitted frequency and returns the processed signal to a transceiver typically located on the player. The currently transmitted frequency is then compared with the received frequency to obtain a difference frequency from which an apparatus may estimate the distance. The apparatus may simultaneously receive the processed signal from the radio tag while transmitting the sweep signal.
US08784267B2 Method for controlling a rolling or coasting function of a vehicle
A method of controlling a rolling or a coasting function of a vehicle, such as a commercial vehicle, having a drive train including a drive motor, an automatic or automated transmission that is controllable by transmission controls, a controllable shifting mechanism for interrupting the flow of power in the drive train, and a driving speed control device. The flow of power in the drive train is interrupted in a suitable driving situation. In order for the rolling or the coasting function to be exploited as efficiently as possible, and still be terminated safely and comfortably, the flow of power in the drive train is restored depending on a selectable difference in speed (Δv_F_T) between the current vehicle speed (v_F) and a speed limit (v_T) set by the driving speed control device.
US08784265B2 Method for starting an engine
A method for improving starting of an engine that may be repeatedly stopped and started is presented. In one embodiment, the method adjusts a transmission actuator in response to engine combustion during an engine start. The method may improve vehicle launch for stop/start vehicles.
US08784261B2 Continuously variable transmission
A continuously variable transmission includes a continuously variable transmission mechanism that includes an input disk, an output disk, and planetary balls sandwiched between them and that steplessly changes a transmission ratio between the input disk and the output disk by tilting the planetary balls, wherein cooling performance of a cooling device for the continuously variable transmission mechanism is enhanced as the transmission ratio becomes larger than 1 or smaller than 1.
US08784260B2 Continuously variable transmission
A continuously variable transmission having a continuously variable transmission mechanism including an input member, an output member, and a rotary member sandwiched therebetween, transmitting torque between the input member and the output member by means of frictional forces generated by pushing the input member and the output member against the rotary member, and continuously varying a transmission gear ratio between the input member and the output member, an axial force generating portion which rotates in one direction to generate a first axial force for pushing one of the input member and the output member toward the other and rotates in the other direction to generate a second axial force opposite to the first force, and an opposite axial force transmitting portion for transmitting the second force to the other of the input member and the output member when the axial force generating portion generates the second force.
US08784255B2 Mechanical speed variator with eccentric dynamic masses having a balanced structure
A mechanical speed variator is provided with eccentric masses having a balanced structure. The variator includes a drive shaft, provided with a cam composed of a circular disk eccentrically mounted on the drive shaft, which drives the driven shaft in rotation with interposition of a series of eccentric masses, each of them being composed of a circular disk with eccentric circular hole in which another mass of lower dimensions is ratably housed. The larger mass is housed and rotates inside the eccentric hole of a ring coupled with bolts to a flange and counter flange, respectively mounted on the driven shaft and the drive shaft.
US08784254B2 Power transmitting component
A power transmitting component with a housing, a shaft and a seal. The housing has a wall member, a shaft bore, and a shield wall. The shaft bore is formed through the wall member. The shield wall is coupled to and extends outwardly from the wall member. The shield wall is formed about the shaft bore and defines a drain spout. The shaft is received through the shaft bore. The seal is received in the shaft bore and sealingly engages the housing and the shaft. The drain spout is configured to drain liquid from a space that is radially inward of the shield wall when the power transmitting component is disposed in a predetermined orientation.
US08784253B2 Transmission ratio variable device
A second shaft is configured by a shaft portion extending outside a housing in which a nutation gear mechanism is housed, a housing portion, and a cylindrical portion. A communicating hole, through which an outside and an inside of the housing portion communicate with each other, is formed in the shaft portion. A preload applying mechanism includes a preload adjusting plug that is screwed to the housing portion and is able to be operated from outside through the communicating hole, a wave washer compressed in accordance with a position of the preload adjusting plug, and a lock nut that is screwed to the housing portion of the second shaft so as to press the preload adjusting plug toward the nutation gear mechanism.
US08784250B2 Continuously variable transmission system
The invention relates to a continuously variable transmission (CVT) system, governed by an inertial mechanism that provides an additional degree of freedom, conferring dynamic properties on the transmission. The complete system includes three distinct subsystems. The first subsystem transforms the rotating movement from the driving system into a movement with oscillating angular speed and regulates the amplitude of said movement. The oscillating rotation at the output of the first subsystem is used to drive the second subsystem, which acts as a regulating element by means of the inertial mechanism. In this manner, the second subsystem acts as a torque-regulating element, providing a signal representing the oscillating angular speed at the output shaft thereof. The oscillating rotation at the output of the second subsystem is rectified in the third subsystem, thereby providing a signal representing angular speed in a single direction of rotation at the output shaft.
US08784245B2 Vehicle drive system
A drive system includes a transmission mechanism that establishes a plurality of gear positions comprising a first-speed through sixth-speed gear positions and a reverse-drive gear position, by switching among change gear trains and coupling a first driveshaft to an output member, and also includes a lock clutch that switches a power distribution mechanism between a locked state in which a ring gear and a carrier are coupled to each other and are inhibited from rotating in a differential fashion, and a released state in which the inhibition of the differential rotation is cancelled.
US08784240B1 Ball hitting practice device and ball
The present invention is a device to be used to practice hitting a ball. The device according to the invention suspends a ball at a variety of positions movable along three axes. The ball is removably connected to a flexible line having a first side magnet thereon. The user can select if the first-end magnet will rise or fall when the removable ball is struck and the first-end magnet is hit and/or swings a predetermined amount by using either a counterweight or a connector-magnet attached to an adjustment peg fixedly attached to a vertical support. When using the connector-magnet, the user can also select the amount of force required to dislodge the connector-magnet from a metallic component on the vertical support. The present invention is also the ball having metallic components inside which can be safely used with or without the device. The device is safer than existing devices and it produces better results due to its configuration.
US08784236B2 Golf balls having dual cores made of polybutadiene rubber / ionomer blends
A multi-piece golf ball comprising at least one component made of a polybutadiene rubber/ionomer resin blend is provided. The ball preferably contains a dual-core comprising an inner core and surrounding outer core layer. Preferably, the polybutadiene rubber/ionomer resin blend is used to form the outer core layer. The center hardness of the inner core is preferably greater than the outer surface hardness of the outer cover layer. The resulting ball has high resiliency and good impact durability.
US08784235B2 Golf ball with negative hardness gradient core
Golf ball comprising a single layer core formed from a substantially homogenous formulation and comprising: geometric center and outer surface; inner core region disposed about the geometric center, outer core region adjacent the outer surface, and intermediate core region disposed between the inner and outer core regions and extending radially from about 10 mm to about 16 mm from the geometric center. A first hardness is disposed within the inner core region, a second hardness is disposed within the outer core region, and a third hardness of from about 40 Shore C to about 95 Shore C (or about 30 Shore D to about 70 Shore D) is disposed within the intermediate core region and is greater than each of the first and second hardnesses. At least one hardness in the outer core region is substantially the same as or less than a hardness in the inner core region.
US08784234B2 Golf club head with a body-conforming weight member
A golf club head includes a main body having a top portion, a bottom portion, a striking face, and an interior surface. A weight member is coupled to the interior surface of the main body. In an imaginary vertical plane that passes through the weight member, the interior surface of the main body comprises a first point and a second point. An imaginary line passes through the first point and the second point. A first imaginary boundary line and a second imaginary boundary line, both passing through the weight member and being perpendicular to the imaginary line, pass through the first point and the second point, respectively. Between the first point and the second point, the interior surface of the main body has an irregularity factor of at least 1.2 and the weight member comprises a distribution factor of at most 1.0 and a conformity factor of at most 0.07.
US08784233B2 Striking face of a golf club head
A golf club head with improved striking face performance is disclosed herein. More specifically, the present invention discloses a golf club head having a thickened central region surrounded by an internal and an external transition region; wherein the thickened central region has an inner perimeter that takes on a shape that substantially resembles the shape of an outer perimeter of the striking face of the golf club head.
US08784231B2 Golf club
A golf club according to one or more aspects of the present invention may have a mass less than 300 g, a length greater than about 45 inches, a swing weight between D0 and D6, a head weighing less than about 200 g, a club-head volume of at least about 360 cm3, a grip weighing less than about 50 g, and a shaft having a tip end, a butt end, and a shaft balance point located no more than 24 inches from the butt end. The shaft may have a torsional displacement angle greater than about 5.5° and a mass less than about 50 g. A coordinate system having x-, y-, and z-axes may have its origin at the center of gravity of the club head. The golf club head may have a moment of inertia of at least about 4500 g·cm2 about the z-axis and a moment of inertia of at least about 3000 g·cm2 about the y-axis.
US08784229B1 Lower body golf training aid
A golf training apparatus which aids golfers in perfecting their swing and associated body movements comprises a cushion and posts mounted to a frame which restricts a golfer's movement while in a golf stance and during a golf swing in order to develop a proper golf swing technique. A set of bars help the user to feel the proper rotation of their hips during a swing while avoiding unwanted lateral movement. The apparatus also comprises adjustable rods which extend sideways and forwardly from the frame to help a golfer to practice their swing path by keeping the swing within the rods. A golf ball alignment bar is located at a middle location at the base of the frame to help the golfer to consistently place the ball in the proper position prior to the golf swing.
US08784222B2 Track configured for passing through turns
The present invention provides a race track configured to encourage passing. The race track includes a pavement that defines a turn, a first path around the turn, and a second path around the turn. The second path is longer than the first path, and the two paths are spaced-apart such that a first car can travel on the first path and a second car can travel on the second path in an overlapped position relative to the first car. At least a portion of the first path passing over a plurality of depressions defined in the pavement at predetermined positions. The depressions configured to reduce the amount of friction available to the first car such that the first car is slowed sufficiently for the second car to maintain the overlap position or pass the first car through the turn as the second car travels on the longer second path.
US08784219B2 Flexible homokinetic coupling
A coupling for connecting a drive to a load has an input connector that defines with a plurality of radially spaced input attachment points all lying on a common radial plane of a rotation axis and a similar output connector with a plurality of output attachment points. Connecting elements each have one end connected to a respective input attachment point and an opposite end connected to a respective output attachment point by a link joint. The radial spacing of the input attachment points from the input rotation axis and the radial spacing of the output attachment points from the output rotation axis are the same. The input attachment points and the output attachment points coupled to these input attachment points by a connecting element are angularly spaced relative to each other about the input rotation axis by 80° to 100°.
US08784217B2 Widget management system and method of operating thereof
A widget manager configured for managing at least one widget process, the widget manager comprising a processing module, a widget interface and a service interface operatively coupled to each other, wherein said at least one widget process is configured to run as a part of a client process, said client process configured to communicate with a game platform and/or parts therein via a client communication channel; wherein the widget interface is configured to enable communication between said at least one widget process and a game process which is configured to run as a part of said client process independently from the widget process; and wherein the service interface is configured to enable communication between said at least one widget process and the game platform and/or parts therein.
US08784213B2 Enhanced video gaming machine
The present invention provides a closed-loop system that allows the operator of video gaming machines or other systems to define promotional events for the particular machines or systems, monitor the activity of the particular machines or systems, and grant awards. More specifically, the promotional events may include scheduling information, winning criteria and awards. During the period of time that the promotional event is active, the activity of the machine or system is monitored to determine if the winning criteria has been satisfied. If the winning criteria are satisfied, information pertaining to event is recorded. The present invention is applicable to a variety of embodiments including video poker machines, black jack machines or other gaming and gambling machines, as well as other systems that include a display mechanism and an activity that can be monitored.
US08784209B2 Increasing user engagement with health
A health-program system and method provides health programs for users to select, receives data related to users' progress in a selected health program and determines users' status in the program which is provided for display to the users.
US08784196B2 Remote content management and resource sharing on a gaming machine and method of implementing same
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.
US08784195B1 Authentication system for gaming machines
Disclosed is a system and method that uses digital signature technology to authenticate the contents of one or more manifests located on a storage device. Each manifest contains a list of file records, where each record contains the name of a file stored on the storage device, and a SHA1 hash value derived from the contents of the file. At boot time, the gaming machine first authenticates the contents of the manifest and then verifies the contents of the files using the SHA1 value stored in the manifest. Files are verified using the SHA1, as they are needed, during the boot up of the operating system and throughout normal operation. This method reduces the boot time of the gaming machine and eliminates the need to check digital signatures for each individual file or over the entire contents of a non-secure media.
US08784192B2 Managing limitation rules for wagering accounts
A wagering game account management system and its operations are described herein. In some embodiments, the operations include assigning one or more money values to a graphical user interface control and linking the graphical user interface control to a credit account. The credit account is a third-party financial account from which a player account is authorized to borrow funds up to a credit limit. In some embodiments, the operations further include providing the graphical user interface control for presentation during a wagering game session associated with the player account.
US08784191B1 Gaming system and method for providing a symbol elimination game
In various embodiments, the gaming system disclosed herein provides a symbol elimination game which utilizes a single continuous series or chain of symbols displayed at a plurality of symbol display positions of a formed path and further utilizes one or more eliminators displayed at one or more eliminator display positions associated with and distinct from the symbol display positions of the formed path. Specifically, in various embodiments, the gaming system: (i) displays the chain of symbols continuously moving through the path of symbol display positions, and (ii) eliminates zero, one or more of such symbols based on one or more interactions between such symbols and the symbol display eliminators displayed at the eliminator display positions.
US08784187B2 Gaming machine and control method thereof
A gaming machine of the present invention has a memory for, after a predetermined number of cards have been extracted from among a plurality of cards, storing a plurality of predetermined values which serve as a condition for shuffling the plurality of cards. Then, a specific predetermined value is determined as a condition for shuffling a plurality of cards from among the plurality of predetermined values that are stored in the memory. In addition, a game is performed in such a manner that dealer cards and player cards which are used in a game are determined from among the plurality of cards and then the determined cards are compared with each other. Further, the number of cards that is used in the game is cumulatively counted and then the respective used cards are cumulatively stored as used cards in the memory. Furthermore, as a result of repeating the game, in a case where the counted number of cards has reached a specific set predetermined value, the plurality of cards are shuffled at the time of starting a next game.
US08784182B2 Slot machine and playing method thereof
A part of credits paid by the player is accumulated when a plurality of symbols are displayed by a scrolling display and then rearranged in a prescribed combination, and a stop switch is set active only in a case where a predetermined combination is determined. When a plurality of symbols are rearranged in a combination of jackpot symbols in relation to a timing of an input by a player, a payout of the accumulated credits is made. Consequently, the reels can be stopped by an operation of the player himself, and in a case where a combination of the stopped symbols is a combination associated with a payout, a payout can be received as a reward, so that the player's interest to the game can be increased.
US08784181B2 Gaming system and method for providing a casual wagering game
Various embodiments of the disclosed gaming system, gaming device and method provide a casual wagering game which includes a matrix having a plurality of positions. A plurality of path endpoints are positioned along a perimeter of the matrix. In various embodiments, each of the path endpoints are associated with one of an award, a symbol indicating advancement to a subsequent level or a terminator symbol. Each position of the matrix, except a starting position, is configured to accommodate one of a plurality of tiles. Each tile includes one or a plurality of path segments. When the tiles are placed in certain configurations, path segments of bordering tiles form a complete path between the starting position and one or more of the path endpoints. The general objective of the game is for a player to place tiles at positions in the matrix such that connecting path segments form a complete path between the start position and one or more path endpoints in order to win the path endpoint awards.
US08784178B2 Lotterized online gaming with multiple virtual currencies
There is an interactive video game having a lotterized aspect incorporated therein. In addition to the traditional interactive video game, instant and future win opportunities are presented to the player throughout the game. The game and win opportunities are played with a plurality of virtual currencies, the virtual currencies comprising credits for purchasing virtual goods in the game play instance, tokens applicable within the game play instance for participating in the real world lottery, and gifts representative of virtual goods exchangeable between players.
US08784177B2 Gaming system and a method of gaming
The present invention relates to a gaming system and to a method of gaming. A gaming system comprises a game controller arranged to randomly display several symbols from a predetermined set of symbols and to determine a game outcome such as a game win based on the displayed symbols. Such gaming systems may be implemented as a stepper machine provided with reels or a video machine displaying “virtual” reels. One or more reels generated in play of a base game may be stored for later use in subsequent games. In a subsequent game or games, the game controller may select the stored reel to substitute for a reel generated by the game, in order to improve the game outcome. For example, the game outcome may become a “win” from a “lose” outcome. Or it may result in an improved win outcome. The one or more reels may be stored depending upon a trigger condition generated in the base game.
US08784174B2 Gaming system and method for providing an offer and acceptance game
A gaming system including an offer and acceptance game including a series of offer component accumulations. One or more accumulated offer components are associated with one or more award values which form different offers for acceptance or rejection. One or more of such offer component accumulations are also associated with an elimination of one or more of any previously accumulated offer components. Such a configuration provides that when deciding whether to accept an offer (including the currently accumulated, non-eliminated offer components) or reject the offer and accumulate additional offer components, a player weighs the risks of eliminating one or more previously accumulated offer components.
US08784172B1 Online gambling and investing methods and systems using behavioral economics
Electronic gambling methods and systems comprising an electronic computer system operating electronic gambling software and optionally operating a data analytics engine which can be accessed by players using computing devices are disclosed. During the players' gambling sessions provided by the electronic gambling software, the electronic gambling system will present an “Investment Wager” to the players to induce them to move some or all their funds remaining in their gambling accounts to one or more investment accounts. The Investment Wager is implemented and designed based upon findings from behavioral economics, including loss aversion, the priming effect and the framing effect. The entity managing the electronic gambling system can act as the manager of the investment accounts, thereby yielding a potential revenue stream to the entity/manager.
US08784171B2 Method and apparatus for modeling a track in video games using arcs and splines that enables efficient collision detection
A method and apparatus for modeling a track in video games that enables efficient collision detection between a game object (such as a racecar wheel) and the track. The invention provides an infinitely smooth track for use in collision detection through the novel use of arcs and splines. The invention enables relatively small amounts of data to be used to model and express relatively large gameplay courses, such as race tracks and the like. The arcs and splines enables quick and efficient look-up of the location of the tire on the track and calculation of the distance from the wheel to the track for loading purposes.
US08784170B1 Program, server, and method for game
A game program according to an embodiment enhances playability of a game wherein user objects strike target objects. The game program includes: a stage selection module for receiving stage selection; a ball selection module for receiving selection of ball objects; a screen display module for displaying a game screen; an owned point updating module for updating owned point information; an injection module for injecting ball objects; a ball-hitting operation module for operating flippers; an appearance module for causing a level-up item to appear when a predetermined appearance condition is satisfied; a game progress module for providing the user with a score when the ball object strikes the scoring target object, and providing the user with the level-up item when the ball object strikes the level-up item; and a level updating module for updating the level of the ball objects.
US08784168B2 Louvered vent cover
A louvered vent cover includes a pest guard cover, a louver frame and a vent duct attachment. The pest guard cover has a grilled guard and is mounted on the louver frame by means of pins. The louver frame contains several louvers which permit one-way passage of the air to the exterior of the building. The louver frame is mounted to the vent duct attachment by means of tabs and a clip. The vent duct attachment is adapted to fit within a vent duct. The louvered cover may be mounted over a vent duct in a new construction, or, without use of the vent duct attachment, may be mounted over an existing vent duct cover.
US08784167B2 Fan suspension for reduction of noise
The electronic system has a chassis having a base and a set of flanges extending from the base. The electronic system has electronic circuitry housed within the chassis. The electronic system has a fan assembly having a fan arranged to generate an air stream suitable for cooling the electronic circuitry, and a fan mount. The fan mount has an attachment portion arranged to attach to the fan. The fan mount has a set of chassis interface portions arranged to form a cantilever with the set of flanges relative to the base to vibrationally isolate the fan from the base.
US08784160B2 Method for manufacturing spectacle lenses according to a prescription
A method for manufacturing spectacle lenses includes the steps of: providing a lets blank having a first face that possesses a final curvature and is coated with an antireflection coating as an outer layer, a second face, and an edge; blocking with a blocking material the lens blank with its first face on a block piece; processing the blocked lens blank on the second face and to obtain a processed lens; deblocking the processed lens from the block piece; and applying on top of the first face antireflection coating of the processed lens a top coating selected from at least one of hydrophobic, oleophobic or dust repelling coatings.
US08784159B2 Method for polishing semiconductor wafer
In a method for polishing a semiconductor wafer by rotating a work carrier and a table while pressing the semiconductor wafer retained by the work carrier against a polishing cloth mounted on the table, at a time when the table and the work carrier both having been at rest are rotated, each at a predetermined number of revolutions, in a condition that the polishing cloth and the semiconductor wafer are pressed against each other, to thereby start polishing, a table acceleration is maintained smaller than a work carrier acceleration. By such maintaining the table acceleration smaller than the work carrier acceleration, vibrations to be generated when the polishing is started can be prevented. In the method for polishing a semiconductor wafer according to the present invention, the diameter of the semiconductor wafer is preferably defined to be 30% or more of the diameter of the table.
US08784158B2 Continuous grinding machine
In a continuous grinding machine for grinding the surface of flat workpieces (20) with at least one grinding station and a transport device (10) for moving the workpieces (20) relative to the grinding station, the grinding station having at least one grinding assembly (22) with a grinding belt (26) and a pressure device (34) for pressing the grinding belt (26) against the workpiece surface, and with a control device (38) for controlling the pressure device (34) depending on the workpiece contour, the transport device (10) is reversible with respect to its feed direction and the control device (38) has means (36) for detecting the workpiece contour depending on the feed direction.
US08784157B2 Glass-plated working machine
A glass-plate working machine 1 is arranged such that while a cutting head 9 for forming a cut line on a glass plate 5 and a grinding head 10 for grinding a peripheral edge of the glass plate 5 bend-broken along the cut line are being moved simultaneously in parallel under numerical control, the cutting head 9 and the grinding head 10 respectively having angle control motors 46 and 49 are synchronously subjected to angular control about axes 39 perpendicular to the surface of the glass plate 5, and the cutting head 9 and the grinding head 10 are moved such that the orientation of a cutter wheel 52 is adjusted to a processing line, and the press contacting direction of a grinding wheel 64 of the grinding head 10 is kept in a normal direction with respect to a processing line of an edge of the glass plate 5.
US08784156B2 Grinding method for grinding a workpiece using a grinding wheel
A core grinding wheel that has a grinding layer on an outer periphery of a core is used. An ultrasonic wave is output from an ultrasonic sensor to the grinding layer via grinding fluid. An ultrasonic measuring device control unit calculates a thickness of the grinding layer on the basis of a sonic velocity in the grinding layer and an arrival time difference between a reflected wave from a surface of the grinding layer and a reflected wave from a surface of the outer periphery of the core. A grinding process and a truing process are controlled on the basis of an outside diameter of the grinding wheel, which is calculated on the basis of the measured thickness of the grinding layer and an outside diameter of the core.
US08784152B2 Aerodynamic flying disc
A toy projectile that has two parts, a cup shaped inner core having a top wall, an annular wall extending from the top wall to a bead adjacent to a bottom end, and an outer covering being somewhat donut shaped with a central opening, a top end, a bottom end, a lower recess, a curved exterior surface and a chamfer adjacent to the bottom end. The inner core is received in the central opening of the outer covering such that the top wall of the inner core is continuous with the top end of the outer covering. The bottom of the projectile may be open or covered. The projectile includes geometric aspect ratios that provide the projectile with excellent flight characteristics. The ratios are: projectile outer diameter to projectile height between 4:1 to 5.2:1; projectile outer diameter to core outer diameter between 1.20:1 to 1.45 to 1; projectile height to core bead height between 2.3:1 to 3.25:1; outer covering volume to inner core volume between 2.4:1 to 5.8:1; profile radius to projectile height between 0.5:1 to 0.8:1; and chamfer height to chamfer width between 2:1 to 6.1.
US08784151B1 Variable emissivity material
A material of variable emissivity includes a first metallic layer having a first aperture, a second metallic layer having a second aperture, and a variable dielectric layer interposed between the first metallic layer and the second metallic layer.
US08784150B2 Light emitting display and method of manufacturing the same
The present invention is to provide an organic light emitting display and a method of manufacturing the same, the light emitting display including: a first substrate on which a plurality of light emitting devices are formed; a second substrate disposed to face the first substrate; a dam member disposed between the first substrate and the second substrate to surround the plurality of light emitting devices; an inorganic sealing material disposed between the first substrate and the second substrate on an outward side of the dam member and attaching the first substrate and the second substrate; and a filling material provided between the first substrate and the second substrate on an inward side of the dam member and formed of at least one inert liquid selected from the group consisting of perfluorocarbon and fluorinert.
US08784149B2 Apparatus and method for repair of defects in an electronic energy control or display device
An apparatus for repair of a defect in an electronic energy control device may include a position indicating means for indicating a position at which to fixedly position a mounting unit relative to a portion of an electronic energy control device including a defect to be repaired, where the device is fixed in position. An imaging and repair assembly of the apparatus has an optical imaging range and a laser repair range. When the mounting unit is mounted to a support surface to fixedly position the mounting unit at the position indicated by the position indicating means and the imaging and repair assembly is attached to the mounting unit, the portion of the electronic energy control device is within the imaging range and the repair range.
US08784148B2 Propulsion device for use with a fluid
In one embodiment, a propulsion device for use in a fluid may include a crank-slider mechanism having one or more cranks, one or more connecting rods, a mast, and one or more slide structures. These structures may be arranged so that rotational motion of the shaft is translated to a combination of substantially linear motion of the mast, between an inner extent and an outer extent, and rotational motion of the mast, within an angular range between a first limit and a second limit. A flexible foil may be rigidly coupled to the mast of the crank-slider mechanism. The flexible foil may include a flexible nose portion and a flexible tail portion. The flexible tail portion may have a differing amount of flexibility than the flexible nose portion.
US08784146B2 Contact terminal for printed circuit board
A contact terminal device for a Printed Circuit Board (PCB), includes the contact terminal being formed to correspondingly cover at least a portion of an opening formed in the PCB and a terminal member fixed onto the PCB, in which the terminal member includes a fixing portion fixed around the opening on a surface of the PCB and a contact terminal portion extending from the fixing portion to be disposed on the opening. The contact terminal for the PCB reduces a height from a surface of the PCB to a contact point with a counterpart component, i.e., a contact height, contributing to reducing the thickness of the portable terminal.
US08784142B2 Connector block assembly utilizing a single output and associated method of use
A connector block assembly that includes two or more input terminals for receiving electrical input voltage, a single electrical conductor output that is electrically connected to two or more input terminals, an insulator base; wherein the plurality of input terminals for receiving electrical input voltage are mounted within the insulator base and the single electrical conductor output are transversely mounted either within the insulator base or to the outside of the outer insulator so that the single electrical conductor output is at an angle of about seventy degrees to about one hundred-ten degrees in relationship to the two or more input terminals with a variation of angles between these two values. The optimal embodiment is being a single electrical conductor output being substantially perpendicular at an angle of about ninety degrees in relationship to the plurality of input terminals.
US08784141B2 Connector formed with a retainer having terminal alignment features
A connector (A) includes a partition (40) for partitioning an insertion hole (35) for a tab (15) and a mold removal space (39) for a locking lance (37). A retainer (44) is pivoted between a partial locking position and a full locking position. A lock (43) restricts a displacement of the retainer (44). A retracted portion (50) is formed in an area (41R) of a facing wall (41) behind the retainer (44) to mold the lock (43) and retracted from an insertion path for a male terminal fitting (10) as compared with an area (41F) of the facing wall (41) before the retainer (44). The retainer (44) includes a restriction (48) for restricting the inclination of the male terminal fitting (10) by being so displaced, at the partial locking position, that a rear end of the male terminal fitting (10) moves toward the retracted portion (50).
US08784140B2 Terminal contacting part included in a jig for charging and discharging a secondary battery and the jig including the same
A terminal contacting part includes in a jig for charging and discharging a secondary battery and a jig including the terminal contacting part. The terminal contacting part has a conductive unit for contacting an electrode terminal and conducting thereto and a pressing unit for pressing the electrode terminal for the conductive unit to be in tight contact with an electrode lead of a secondary battery. A compressing plate to be in contact with an electrode terminal includes a pad of dielectric-elastic material.
US08784138B2 Connector assembly
A connector assembly includes a connector plug and a connector socket. The connector plug includes an outer surface having a first portion and a second portion. The first portion includes a plurality of first plug signal transmitting lines. The second portion includes a plurality of second plug signal transmitting lines. The first and second plug signal transmitting lines form a plurality of first homocentric circles. The connector socket includes an inner surface which includes a first area and a second area. The first area includes a plurality of first socket signal transmitting lines. The second area includes a plurality of second socket signal transmitting lines. The first and second socket signal transmitting lines form a plurality of second homocentric circles. The connector plug inserts in the connector socket to connect the first and second plug signal transmitting lines to the first and second socket signal transmitting lines respectively.
US08784137B2 Charger with removable cap
A charger includes a housing defining a receiving cavity, two through holes defined in the housing communicating with the receiving cavity, two slots defined in the housing, a fuse and a spring member received in the receiving cavity, a cap movably coupled to the housing, and an anode contact. The anode contact abuts between the spring member and the fuse engaging with the cap. A hooks engages in the through holes to prevent the cap from detaching from the housing, being disengageable from the through holes when pushed by a pin inserted into the through holes allowing the spring member to push the cap to move until the hooks engage in the slots. The cap is rotated a predetermined angel until the hooks are slidably received in a receiving grooves, thereby allowing the cap to be detachable from the housing through the opening.
US08784131B2 Wire connecting device for hybrid vehicle
Disclosed is a wire connecting device for a vehicle, preferably a hybrid vehicle, including six individual bus bars for connecting two 3-phase AC sub-devices to a main device, in which the bus bars are divided in to a first unit terminal unit and a second unit terminal unit each composed of a U-pole bus bar, a V-pole bus bar, and a W-pole bus bar, predetermined ends of the U-pole bus bar, the V-pole bus bar, and the W-pole bus bar of the first unit terminal unit bend to a side, and predetermined ends of the U-pole bus bar, the V-pole bus bar, and the W-pole bus bar of the second unit terminal unit bend to the other side.
US08784129B2 Electric cable connecting construction and electric cable connecting method
Attaching work of a high-voltage cable is improved. In an electric cable connecting construction of battery packs, the high-voltage cable is connected to conductors held in resin busbar modules for connection with the general electrodes by fastening crimp terminals to the conductors. Two ribs are formed on each of the busbar modules where the crimp terminal is held therebetween to limit an entrained rotation of the crimp terminal. A difference between a gap of the two ribs on one of the adjacent battery packs and a width of the crimp terminal connected to the general electrode is set to a first gap dimension L3 and A difference between a gap and a width of the crimp terminal connected to the general electrode of the other of the adjacent battery packs is set to a second gap dimension L6 larger than the first gap dimension.
US08784127B2 Electrical connection system including mating assist lever that contains locking means and connector position assurance member that interacts therewith
An electrical connection system and method includes a first connector housing matable to a second connector housing along a mating axis. The first connector housing contains a mating assist lever (MAL) that rotationally pivots between an INOPERATIVE position and a CLOSED position and includes a locking means. When the MAL is positionally rotatable to the CLOSED position the first connector housing and the second connector housing are mated together such that the locking means is disposed adjacent an external surface of the second connector housing. A sufficiently applied force against the locking means actuates the locking means so that the locking means latchingly secures the first connector housing to the second connector housing. A CPA member, also disposed on the MAL, slidingly communicates with the latched locking means transverse to the mating axis and ensures the latched locking means does not become unlatched so that electrical connection system remains mated.
US08784125B2 Side retainer assembly for heat sink and memory modules
A side clip has a clip base attached to a socket connector and a first clip member and a second clip member extending from the clip base. The first clip member has a terminal for attaching to a printed circuit board. The second clip member is spaced in parallel from the first member and connected to the first clip member by a distal segment to form an opening. A side retainer has a retainer base having first and second ends and first, second, third, and fourth retainer members extending vertically from the retainer base. The first retainer member fits a hole on a board held by the side clip. The second retainer member is located at the first end and has an inward hook. The fourth retainer member is located on the second end and has an outward hook.
US08784121B2 Control device for a motor vehicle and related method for mounting a control device for a motor vehicle
The invention relates to a control device (1) for a motor vehicle, comprising a housing (10) and at least one circuit carrier (20), which is arranged in an inner chamber of the housing (10) and comprises at least one first contact element (22) that establishes an electric connection to at least one second contact element (17) of a plug receptacle (50) on at least one housing wall (11), wherein the second contact element (17) is guided through the at least one housing wall (11) and is designed on the inside as a contact spring that rests against an associated first contact element (22) by spring force, and to a related method for mounting a control device for a motor vehicle. According to the invention, the at least one housing wall (11) comprises receiving means (11.1) for a first circuit carrier (20), wherein the first circuit carrier (20) is guided through guide means (13.1) designed in the housing (10), wherein the guide means (13.1) and/or the receiving means (11.1) form a mechanical stop (19) for the first circuit carrier (20) that is designed such that the position of the first circuit carrier (20) is fixed in the mechanical stop (19) with sufficiently small tolerance such that the electric connection between the at least one first contact element (22) of the first circuit carrier (20) and the corresponding second contact element (17) designed as a contact spring is established in the plug receptacle (50).
US08784119B2 Electrical connector
An electrical connector is provided with an FFC including a first insulating layer including a plurality of internal flat conductors each being elongated and having an exposed contact portion at one end and an exposed soldering portion at the other end; an electrical cable including a plurality of conductors each having a second insulating layer therearound, the conductors electrically connected to the soldering portions; and a connector housing covering a rear portion of the FFC and a front end of the electrical cable for fastening the FFC and the electrical cable. A front portion of the FFC is provided with a protective plastic plate for fastening and supporting the contact portions of the FFC and the first insulating layer.
US08784116B2 Electrical connector
Electrical connectors that are mating compatible with the MicroTCA® standard and configured to be mounted to an underlying substrate are provided. Certain of the electrical connectors can be configured to be mounted to a substrate configured in accordance with the MicroTCA® press fit footprint. Additionally, electrical connectors that are mating compatible with the MicroTCA® standard and configured to be mounted to respective alternative footprints, and substrates configured in accordance with the respective alternative footprints are provided. The disclosed electrical connectors and corresponding substrate footprints can operate to transmit data at speed up to and in excess of 25 Gigabits per second.
US08784112B2 Tooth for dental arch model and method for producing the same
The present invention relates to a tooth which is used in a dental arch model with which dental students can experience dental works in the oral cavity and practice treatments. More specifically, the present invention relates to a tooth composition for formation trainings such as abutment tooth formation and cavity preparation. Since conventionally used dental arch models have a grinding sensation different from a natural tooth, dental students having completed formation trainings such as abutment tooth formation and cavity preparation by using these conventional models are frequently puzzled to have different grinding and handling properties upon dental works in the oral cavity in practice. That is, these conventional dental arch models are largely different from a natural tooth in grinding sensation including slipperiness and easiness in grinding. A tooth for a dental arch model simulating the enamel texture and the dentin texture constituting a natural tooth whereby even the difference in grinding sensation between the enamel texture and the dentin texture constituting a natural tooth can be reproduced by forming at least the enamel portion with the use of a sintered body of an inorganic powder such as alumina.
US08784110B2 Urine stream target device, toilet training method, and method of manufacture
A multilayer urine stream target device usable as a toilet training aid includes an upper layer of a first relatively absorbent material, a lower layer of a second relatively non-absorbent material adhesively attached to the upper layer. The upper or first layer of material comprises an alkaline environment and a pH indicator. The pH indicator provides the upper or first layer with first coloration. The upper layer is floatable upon a water surface as typified within a toilet bowl by way of the relatively non-absorbent lower or second layer of material. When a urine stream makes contact with the upper or first layer, the pH-indicator causes a color change in the first material, which color change is believed to promote the targeting of the target device by a urine stream provider.
US08784109B2 Cognitive enhancement
A software program for evaluating and enhancing at least one user cognitive skill, the program including an animation module for displaying at least one first display that includes at least one first object having a first cognitively recognizable changing property of movement and at least one second cognitively recognizable changing property, a response module that receives input from a user signaling device that signals user recognition of the changing, an evaluation module that evaluates the user response based upon at least one evaluation parameter, and an evaluation appraisal module that generates an evaluation display based upon the evaluation.
US08784108B2 Computer-based language immersion teaching for young learners
Disclosed herein, in certain embodiments, are computer-based language immersion teaching systems, products, programs, and methods for learners aged about 3 to about 10 years comprising a digital processing device and a computer program that creates a language immersion teaching environment, wherein said environment comprises a plurality of learning activities associated with a target language, and wherein said plurality of activities comprises: at least one learning activity based on a taxonomy of phonemes; at least one learning activity selected from: songs, chants, books, poems, puzzles, games, art activities, and printable activities; voiceover audio in said target language; and a software module for recording said learner's pronunciation and comparing it to one or more model pronunciations.
US08784105B2 Method of fabricating implant with improved surface properties and implant fabricated by the same method
A method of fabricating an implant with improved surface properties and an implant fabricated using the same are provided. The method includes immersing a substrate that has titanium or titanium alloy in electrolytic solution including at least one of the group consisting of phosphate or fluoride ion and strontium ion, and forming an oxide film layer with a surface structure having a fine roughness of a micro scale by making at least one of phosphate or fluoride ion and strontium ion react to the titanium or the titanium alloy of the substrate on a surface of the immersed substrate using hydrothermal reaction associated with temperature, pressure and time conditions.
US08784102B1 Prophy cup for dental handpiece
A prophy cup has an outer surface with dimples formed therein. The dimples increase the turbulent flow in a boundary layer proximate to the surface. The increased turbulent flow reduces the separation of fluid (a slurry of saliva, blood and pumice) at the boundary layer to minimize the quantity of fluid ejected from the surface. A dental handpiece housing is configured to split longitudinally so that a wiper is positioned proximate to the outer surface of the prophy cup. The wiper removes slurry as the prophy cup rotates during a dental cleaning procedure to further reduce the quantity of fluid ejected from the surface during the procedure.
US08784101B1 Retractor apparatus
An improved retractor device which includes a first main flat arm portion for extending along the outer surface of a patients cheek, that can be grasped by the dentist or hygienist performing the procedure; (or even in some cases, the patient); a second arm that extends into the mouth in use and is attached to the main arm at an acute angle of approximately fifty degrees and having that connecting area gently curved convexly from upper lip to lower lip and concavely from the intraoral to the extraoral portions so as to present a atraumatic surface to oral commissure, and the intraoral arm being convex as it extends to the posterior part of the mouth and getting narrower as it goes posteriorly and ending in a high convex end portion that extends behind the last tooth to reflect the cheek outwardly and posteriorly to produce an increased volume of space for conducting the dental procedure in a dry field and with greater and better comfort, access and visualization.
US08784094B2 Apparatus for demolding molded parts
A device removes molded parts from a mold cavity of a mold half of an injection molding machine. The device contains an ejection mechanism used to remove the molded parts from the mold cavity in an ejection direction. A receiving element is arranged in relation to the mold cavity in the ejection direction, the receiving element contains a receiving opening to which low pressure is applied. The receiving opening is connected to a supply opening of a chamber by a first line. The chamber contains a suction opening on a vertically arranged lateral wall, to which low pressure is applied.
US08784091B2 Co-extrusion of food material and product resulting thereof
The invention proposes a system for dosing a food product onto an object comprising a dosing device (1) for co-extrusion of at least 2 food materials at the same time to form a multi-component food product (30), said dosing device (1) comprising a core element (2) housing at least a first and a second supply (5a, 5b), said first supply (5a) having at least one orifice (6) connected to an extrusion channel (7) which is positioned coaxially to an extrusion channel (8) of the second supply (5b), and a cylindrical tube element (3) relatively rotatable to and enclosing the core element (2), having at least one aperture (3a), wherein said aperture (3a) is designed to be selectively brought into a coaxial position to the extrusion channels (8,7) of the first and second supplies (5a, 5b) by rotating the cylindrical tube element (3), allowing a co-extrusion of the food materials introduced into the supplies (5a, 5b) of the core element. The invention further relates to a method for co-extrusion of at least two extrudable food products using the described apparatus and a product resulting thereof.
US08784089B2 Foamed tools
A tool for use in forming moulded articles, the tool comprising a tool body formed of a foamed material, a resinous material on the tool body and elastomeric material between said tool body and resinous material to inhibit the movement of resin from the resinous material into the tool body. The invention also provides a method of manufacturing a tool, a method of moulding articles using such a tool, and elastomeric material for use in forming a tool. One particular application of the tools of the present invention is in the formation or manufacture of moulded articles using curable, resinous composite materials.
US08784087B2 Roots type fluid machine
A roots type fluid machine includes suction and discharge ports, rotary shafts and a pair of rotors. The rotor has a number n of lobe and valley portions with apex and bottom ends. The lobe portions are located on imaginary lines extending radially from an axis of the rotary shaft. The outer surface of each one of the rotors is generated by rotating an outline of the rotor including an arc and involute and envelope curves around and moving the outline in the direction of the axis. The arc has a radius R and a center located on the imaginary line. The involute curve is formed by an imaginary base circle having a radius r and a center located on the axis. The envelope curve is formed by an arc having a radius R. The number n is four or more. A torsional angle β is over 360/n degrees.
US08784085B2 Uniaxial eccentric screw pump
Disclosed is a uniaxial eccentric screw pump that can prevent the life of a bearing sliding portion from decreasing due to a thrust load applied from a high pressure side to a low pressure side. An external thread-like motor directly coupled with a driving shaft is rotated and eccentrically moved with respect to the axis of a stator to deliver a fluid from an intake side to a discharge side. The pump is provided at an end of the discharge side of the motor and extends toward the discharge side in the axial direction of the stator. The uniaxial eccentric screw pump includes an annular small-diameter portion and a seal member. The seal member is in sliding contact with the outer surface of the small-diameter portion and seals the end of a sliding portion between a self-lubricating bearing on the discharge side and the stator.
US08784083B2 Pump having a flow guide device between at least one pressure plate and a housing
A pump, particularly a vane-type pump, including a rotor guiding at least one vane and resting against at least one pressure plate, which has at least one pressure through-hole and at least one under-vane through-hole, the holes being connected to a pressure outlet provided in a housing of the pump or in a transmission housing. In between the pressure plate and the housing a flow guide device is arranged, which delimits a fluid path from the pressure through-hole past the under-vane through-hole to the pressure outlet.
US08784080B2 Diaphragm pump for a seat adjusting device and seat adjusting device
A diaphragm pump for a seat adjusting device comprises a diaphragm and a valve member which define a pump chamber therebetween. An inlet valve and an outlet valve are formed on the valve member. A pressure chamber is in fluid communication with the outlet valve and receives fluid discharged from the pump chamber via the outlet valve. One of the diaphragm and the valve member comprises a valve membrane of a pressure relief valve integrated in the pump. The valve membrane is integrally formed with the one of the diaphragm and the valve member. The valve membrane is moveable between a first configuration in which the valve membrane closes a pressure relief channel and a second configuration in which the valve membrane opens the pressure relief channel to allow fluid to be discharged from the pressure chamber.
US08784076B2 Disk spring for a turbocharger
The invention relates to a turbocharger (1) having a cartridge (K), which is arranged in a turbine housing (2), for the variable turbine geometry, having a bearing housing (3) which is arranged between the turbine housing (2) and a compressor housing of a compressor wheel and in which is arranged a bearing arrangement for a shaft (W) which supports the turbine wheel and the compressor wheel, and having a plate spring (4) which is arranged between the cartridge (K) and the bearing housing (3), wherein the plate spring (4) is constructed from at least two material layers (5, 6) and an isolator (17).
US08784074B2 High pressure intensifiers
A high pressure intensifier system is disclosed. The system has a high pressure intensifier configured to receive hydraulic fluid from an input and provide the fluid to an output at a higher pressure than at the input, a monitor configured to monitor the pressure of hydraulic fluid provided at the output, and a control configured to control the supply of hydraulic fluid from the input, and configured to maintain the pressure of hydraulic fluid provided at the output at substantially a predetermined value.
US08784073B2 Liquid pressure generating apparatus and driving apparatus
A liquid pressure generating apparatus including a pump, and two one-way clutches arranged coaxially with the pump drive shaft in a line in the axial direction on the side of a first axial direction. The pump case includes a projecting portion projecting from the corresponding pump case. Inner races of the respective two one-way clutches are integrated with each other and form a common inner race. Outer races of the respective two one-way clutches are formed independently from each other and are driven respectively by pump driving members different from each other, and directions of restricted relative rotation with respect to the common inner race are identical to each other. The common inner race includes a coupling portion to be coupled to the pump driving shaft on the side of the first axial direction with respect to the projecting portion.
US08784072B2 Compression apparatus with variable speed screw and method
An apparatus is provided for compressing a loose solid feedstock. The apparatus includes a two stage compressor. The first compression stage is a screw compressor. The second compressor stage is a reciprocating compressor. The reciprocating compressor operates co-axially with, and receives its feed from, the screw compressor. A choke cone maintains pressure in the outfeed from the compressor stages. The reciprocating compressor, the screw compressor, and the choke cone are all adjustable in real time to control the compression of the feedstock according to a pre-programmed schedule that need not have equal compression and retraction strokes. The operation of the screw compressor may be advanced or eased off depending on the motion of the reciprocating compressor. The operation of the choke cone may be actively controlled to obtain a coordination with the compressor stages.
US08784071B2 Fan assembly
A fan assembly for creating an air current includes a base having an air inlet and an air outlet, the base housing an impeller and a motor for rotating the impeller to create an air flow passing from the air inlet to the air outlet. The fan assembly further includes a vertically oriented, elongate annular nozzle including an interior passage having an air inlet for receiving the air flow from the base and a mouth for emitting the air flow, the nozzle defining an opening through which air from outside the fan assembly is drawn by the air flow emitted from the mouth.
US08784067B2 Scroll type booster
An electromagnetic valve, which is provided between an intake port of a compressor body and a pneumatic line at an intermediate position of an intake pipe, is opened/closed by a control unit. Communication between the intake port of the compressor body and the pneumatic line is permitted when the valve is open, and is blocked when the valve is closed. In a start-up control of the compressor body, the electromagnetic valve is opened, permitting communication of the pneumatic line in the plant with the intake port of the compressor body for power supply to an electric motor to drive an orbiting scroll. Rattling of the orbiting scroll by an amount equal to the axial gap (play) is suppressed before starting a compression operation.
US08784060B2 Centrifugal fan
A centrifugal fan has a circular main plate driven and rotated by a motor rotary shaft, a plurality of blades fixed to an outer circumferential portion of the main plate and spaced apart at predetermined intervals in a circumferential direction of the main plate, and a side plate attached to ends of the blades opposite to the main plate. An air inlet port is formed at the center of the side plate. The side plate inclines outward in centrifugal directions from the air inlet port and has an arcuate cross section with a predetermined radius of curvature. A dead water region reducing space is formed between the blades and the side plate. The dead water region reducing space forms a smooth flow between the two surfaces of each blade, bringing about desirable blade performance.
US08784058B2 Engine cooling fan having dynamic unbalance compensation
The invention relates to an engine fan device for a vehicle, characterized in that the engine fan device (10) has at least one or more receiving contours (24, 30, 50), in which one or more balancing elements (28) can be received, wherein at least one receiving contour (24) has at least two planes (26), and/or wherein at least two receiving contours (24) each have at least one plane (26), wherein both planes (26) are different from each other.
US08784049B2 Fan
A floor standing pedestal fan for creating an air current includes a base housing an impeller and a motor for rotating the impeller to create an air flow, an air outlet, and a telescopic duct for conveying the air flow to the air outlet.
US08784039B2 Variable geometry turbine
A variable geometry turbine comprising: a housing; a turbine wheel supported within said housing for rotation about a turbine axis; an annular inlet passage within said housing upstream of said turbine wheel and defined between respective radial inlet surfaces of first and second wall members; an outlet passage within said housing downstream of said turbine wheel; an array of vanes extending across the inlet passage, said vanes being connected to said first wall member; at least one of said first and second wall members being moveable along the turbine axis to vary the size of the inlet passage and/or at least one of said vanes being rotationally moveable about an axis that is substantially parallel to said turbine axis to vary the size of the inlet passage; wherein at least one particulate filter is provided within said housing at a location such that said particulate filter can be contacted by particulate matter flowing through said turbine during use.
US08784032B1 Accessory arm to help maintain a close lid on trash receptacles
The present invention features a receptacle lift arm 100 that can maintain the receptacle lid closed after the receptacle is picked up and the contents there in are dumped.
US08784028B2 Tethered fastening device
A penetrating fastener has a fastener head and fastener tip spaced apart by a longitudinally oriented fastener shaft. A tetherable washer has a substantially planar base surface having a fastener aperture extending therethrough. A longitudinally oriented wall extends longitudinally upward from at least a portion of the base surface to form a concave fastener cavity configured to receive at least a portion of the fastener head. Two tether apertures extend laterally through the wall and are laterally spaced apart along the wall. Both of the tether apertures are laterally arranged along the wall in a rotationally asymmetric configuration. A first one of the tether apertures is located a second longitudinal distance from the base surface and a second one of the tether apertures is located a third longitudinal distance from the base surface. The tether apertures are configured to simultaneously accept a tether extending through both of the tether apertures.
US08784027B2 Ratchet locking mechanism for threaded fastener
A fastening device including a fastener having a head portion and an elongated threaded body portion extending axially from the head portion. The threaded body portion includes opposing flat sections. A lock washer has a lower surface with an array of radially extending engagement teeth. The lock washer also defines an axial aperture for receiving the fastener. The axial aperture has two flat inner surfaces for cooperating with the two flat sections of the threaded body portion to prevent relative rotation of the washer and threaded body portion. A threaded lock nut mates with the threaded body portion. The lock nut has an upper surface with at least one cantilevered pawl members for ratcheted engagement with the array of radially extending engagement teeth of the lock washer.
US08784023B2 Screw and method to identify the screw
A screw has a head whose underside has impressions or embossings and faces towards the tip. The underside is divided into at least five sectors of the same size. Three-fifths of the sectors exhibit an identical pattern of impressions or embossings and at least one sector is provided with a different pattern of impressions or embossings or else with no impressions or embossings.
US08784022B2 Multiple zone cooling apparatus
A cooling assembly for a machine tool including at least first and second nozzle rings mounted on the spindle housing, respectively defining first and second coolant conduits and respectively including first and second pluralities of nozzles in fluid communication with the respective conduit. Each first nozzle is oriented with an outlet thereof directed toward a first machining zone containing cutting edges of at last one tool having a first length. Each second nozzle is oriented with an outlet thereof directed toward a second machining zone different from the first machining zone and containing the cutting edges of at least one tool having a second length.
US08784020B2 Key cutting machine
A key cutting machine includes a housing, carriage, key clamp, and motor to drive the carriage. The key cutting machine may include a vacuum removably attached to the housing. The key cutting machine may be selected between manual, automatic, and semi-automatic user modes. Additional improvements or features of a key cutting machine are also described.
US08784019B2 Drilling tool for chip removing machining as well as a loose top and a basic body therefor
A loose top for drilling tools, including front and rear ends, a pair of envelope part surfaces concentric with a center axis, and two chip flutes countersunk in relation to the pair of envelope part surfaces between which two bars project radially from a central core, the front end including a cutting edge and at least one clearance surface positioned rotationally behind the cutting edge, the rear end forming an axial contact surface. The loose top includes two opposite side contact surfaces against which elastically bendable branches of a tool basic body are pressed in use, a pair of convex guide surfaces situated axially behind the side contact surfaces, the guide surfaces being concentric with the center axis and radially spaced-apart from the center axis at a distance that is less than the radial distance between the center axis and a respective side contact surface, and a pair of torque-carrying tangential contact surfaces that are situated radially inside the envelope part surfaces and outside the side contact surfaces. The axial contact surface extends perpendicular to the center axis between borderlines adjacent to the two envelope part surfaces.
US08784012B2 Systems and methods for particle focusing in microchannels
Various systems, methods, and devices are provided for focusing particles suspended within a moving fluid into one or more localized stream lines. The system can include a substrate and at least one channel provided on the substrate having an inlet and an outlet. The system can further include a fluid moving along the channel in a laminar flow having suspended particles and a pumping element driving the laminar flow of the fluid. The fluid, the channel, and the pumping element can be configured to cause inertial forces to act on the particles and to focus the particles into one or more stream lines.
US08784011B2 Marine-equipment installation method and apparatus
A method of installing marine equipment, the method including providing a marine apparatus comprising the marine equipment and a buoyancy device including at least a first and a second tank. The first tank containing air and the second tank containing a buoyant liquid having a specific gravity of less than 0.8 g/cm3. The method including providing a template on the seabed and guiding the marine apparatus down onto the template. Also a buoyancy device comprising at least a first and a second tank, the first tank containing a first fluid and the second tank containing a second fluid.
US08784004B2 Subsea dispersant injection systems and methods
A system for supplying a chemical dispersant to a subsea hydrocarbon discharge site comprises a dispersant source and a dispersant pump configured to pump dispersant from the dispersant source. In addition, the system comprises a first flow line coupled to the pump. Further, the system comprises a subsea dispersant distribution system coupled to the first flow line. Still further, the system comprises a dispersant injection device coupled to the distribution system and configured to inject dispersant from the dispersant source into a subsea hydrocarbon stream.
US08784001B1 Oil field rig mat assembly
An oil field mat assembly having a pair of interlocking full mats connected by interlocking half mats. Each full mat has a bottom layer, a bottom interlocking segment formed on the bottom layer, a middle layer, an alignment control means, a top layer, a top interlocking segment formed on the top layer on the same side that the top layer connects to the middle layer, and an anti-curling bar.
US08784000B2 Explosion mitigating cover
A manhole cover assembly configured to behave as a relief valve in an explosion event, opening so that fluid, such as air or explosive gas, may vent from an underground area. The manhole cover assembly may include a manhole cover and a frame, and may be configured to limit movement of the manhole cover with respect to the frame in response to increased pressure on the manhole cover. In one embodiment, the manhole cover may include legs having angled surfaces adapted to substantially center or guide the manhole cover in the frame while the manhole cover displaces to release pressure. In another embodiment, one or more legs slidable within the manhole cover to enable configuring the manhole cover between a restraint mode and a removal mode.
US08783997B2 Stress reducing tool mount
A plastic tool mount and system with a tool connector head with a back side, nose and distal end of the nose; a shaft guide having a channel is formed within the head open at the distal end of the nose; the channel further having a raised bump section of plastic extending from a wall of the shaft guide into the shaft guide channel; and, wherein the diameter of the shaft guide channel at the location of the raised bump is diminished.
US08783993B2 Joint and/or bearing arrangement
A joint and/or bearing arrangement (1) has at least two connecting rods (2, 3), which come together in a receiving region (4), and accommodate a joint (5) or bearing in the receiving region (4), The joint or bearing (5) comprises a joint body (7), which is movably held in a joint body seat (6), and a housing (8) which accommodates and radially externally encloses the joint body seat (6), is designed such that the housing (8) comprises, on the outside, at least one rotation-lock region (9, 10, 14) having a non-circular contour.
US08783991B2 Magnetic cleaning tool with fluid pump
Described herein are techniques related to a magnetic tool for cleaning one or more surfaces of a plate of magnetically permeable material, such as a window. With an implementation described herein, the tool includes a pair of magnetically attracted utensils designed to be magnetically coupled together through a window. While a user slides the utensil along an interior surface of the window, the second utensil follows the first utensil and slides along the exterior surface of the window. The second utensil is tethered to a fluid pump via a fluid-conductive hose. In this way, cleaning fluid may be delivered to the second utensil while it is on the exterior surface of the window and cleaning that surface. This Abstract is submitted with the understanding that it will not be used to interpret or limit the scope or meaning of the claims.
US08783990B2 Bottle with applicator
An applicator bottle design allows significantly less fluid to be wasted than previous designs. The design includes a reservoir or indentation for the applicator while the top of the bottle is screwed on. When the bottle is unscrewed, or in use, the applicator can reach more fluid in the bottle so that less fluid is wasted than with conventional applicator bottles.
US08783988B2 Assembly comprising a product-packaging system with sealed closure
The assembly comprises a system for the packaging and application of a product and a device for protecting said system. The system comprises a receptacle for storing the product, a product applicator, and a member for closing the receptacle bearing the applicator. The protective device comprises a cap mounted on the system and at least one means for releasing the system. The releasing means comprises a means for holding the system relative to the device and a means for actuating the holding means in order to render the holding means inactive and at least partly separate the system and the protective device. The assembly also comprises return means capable of maintaining a sealed contact between the closing member and the storage receptacle in an active position of the holding means.
US08783985B2 Printing press comprising sound absorbing elements
A printing machine has at least one central impression cylinder, to which several inking units are allocated, in which a printing material sheet can be fed along a feed path to the impression cylinder in an area between a first inking unit and a last inking unit, and an unwinding station, from which the printing material sheet can be unwound, in which a passable area is provided between the impression cylinder and the unwinding station, at which the printing material sheet can be passed. Sound-absorbing elements are arranged above and/or beneath the feed path.
US08783983B2 Printer with pivotable chute assembly
A printer is disclosed that has a frame and a chute assembly received within the frame in which the chute assembly is pivotable relative to the frame. The chute assembly includes a lower chute part and an upper chute part. The lower chute part is pivotable about a first axis in which the first axis is fixed relative to the frame. The upper chute part is pivotally coupled to the lower chute part and is pivotable about a second axis that is fixed relative to the lower chute part. The lower chute part and the upper chute part are coupled to one another such that, when the upper chute part pivots about the second axis relative to the lower chute part, the lower chute part automatically pivots about the first axis.
US08783982B2 Media processing device, control method for a media processing device, and recording medium
A media processing device and control method for a media processing device enable accurately setting and detecting the home position of a carriage without using a dedicated sensor. Scales 56, 62 having a plurality of wide slits 65 formed at equal intervals and a narrow slit 66 at one end 56A, 62A are disposed parallel to carriage shafts 53, 60. Carriage sensors 55, 61 scan the scales 56, 62 while the carriages 52, 58 move bidirectionally, and detect the wide slits 65 and the narrow slits 66. To initialize the carriages 52, 58, the carriages 52, 58 are moved specific distance L away from the one end 56A, 62A, and the carriages 52, 58 are then reversed and moved until the carriage sensors 55, 61 detect the narrow slits 66. The home position HP is set based on where the narrow slit 66 is detected.
US08783973B2 Hand held camera mount
A hand held camera unit comprises a shoulder assembly and a platform assembly for releasably holding a camera. A connector is provided between the shoulder assembly and the platform assembly, and is movable between a locked position wherein the platform assembly is fixed relative to the shoulder assembly and an unlocked position wherein the platform assembly can be selectively moved relative to the shoulder assembly in the roll axis, the yaw axis and in a fore and aft direction.
US08783970B2 Optical fiber module
An optical fiber module includes an optical transmission line and a fiber stub structure. The optical transmission line has an optical fiber core, a coating enclosing the optical fiber core and a buffer layer enclosing the coating. A part of the optical fiber core is exposed to outer side of a free end of the optical transmission line. The fiber stub structure includes a sleeve and a ferrule. The sleeve has an internal central hole for accommodating the optical transmission line and an oblique hole in communication with the central hole for accommodating the ferrule. The ferrule has an internal passageway for accommodating a part of the optical fiber core of the optical transmission line. When installed, under the restriction of the oblique hole, the ferrule is disposed in the sleeve in an inclined state.
US08783969B2 Illumination device and method of implementing illumination device
An illumination device includes an optical fiber holder configured to hold an optical fiber, a phosphor holder configured to hold a phosphor and faces the optical fiber holder, and a bonding material configured to intervene between the optical fiber holder and the phosphor holder to bond them. The illumination device includes adjustment guide members configured to intervene between the optical fiber holder and the phosphor holder, relatively positionally adjust the optical fiber holder and the phosphor holder so as to arrange an optical axis of the optical fiber and an optical axis of the phosphor on one line, and configured to prevent the optical fiber holder and the phosphor holder from tilting when the bonding material is cured.
US08783963B2 Wheel bearing apparatus for a vehicle
A vehicle wheel bearing apparatus has an outer member, an inner member and double row rolling elements. A wheel mounting flange is integrally formed on a driving side of the inner member for mounting a wheel via a brake rotor. Through apertures are formed on the wheel mounting flange. Hollow pins, having a chamfered portion, are press-fit into the through apertures. The brake rotor is formed with insert apertures to receive the pins, at positions respectively corresponding to the hub bolts and pins. The brake rotor can be temporarily mounted on the wheel mounting flange by inserting or press-fitting the chamfered end sides of the pins into the insert apertures.
US08783957B2 ABS motor for vehicles
The present invention relates to an ABS motor for vehicles, characterized by: a motor body having a rotation shaft; a sleeve press-fitted to the rotation shaft, and provided at a periphery thereof with an upper bearing seat and a lower bearing seat each eccentrically provided; an upper needle bearing press-fitted into the upper bearing seat; and a lower needle bearing press-fitted into the lower bearing seat.
US08783942B2 Device for stirring
A device for stirring a liquid or a granular material comprising a stirring agitator, a rotating drive shaft for rotating the stirring agitator, a rotating drive shaft for rotating the stirring agitator, a stationary axle extending in an essentially vertical direction about which the stirring agitator is adapted to rotate, and a transfer arrangement for contactless transfer of rotation of the drive shaft to the stirring agitator. The device has a center axis around which the stirring agitator and the drive shaft are adapted to rotate, and means for generating a magnetic force exerting an upwardly directed force component on the stirring agitator. The means for generating a magnetic force comprises a first element arranged in a stirring agitator and a second element associated with the stationary axle. At least one of the first element and the second element comprises a permanent magnet.
US08783938B2 LED light module for use in a lighting assembly
A lighting assembly includes a heat dissipating member, a socket and an LED light module removably coupleable to the socket. The socket has one or more electrical contact elements accessed via one or more slots in the socket such that they are protected from inadvertent human contact. The LED light module includes an LED lighting element and one or more electrical contact members that can extend into the one or more slots to releasably contact the one or more electrical contact elements, and establish an operative electrical connection, when the LED light module is coupled to the socket. One or more resilient members of the LED light module or socket gradually compress as the LED light module is axially inserted at least partially into the socket and then rotated relative to the socket such that the one or more electrical contact members move along the one or more slots into contact with the one or more electrical contact elements of the socket.
US08783935B2 Organic light emitting diode lighting apparatus
An organic light emitting diode lighting apparatus is disclosed. The apparatus includes: a light emitting panel including an organic light emitting diode, a receiver receiving the light emitting panel, a cover coupled with the receiver to cover a front edge of the light emitting panel, at least one permanent magnet disposed on the receiver or the cover, and at least one of electromagnet disposed on the receiver or the cover member.
US08783932B2 Backlight device and liquid crystal display apparatus
A planar light source device includes a first light source for emitting a first light ray having a punctate spatial luminance distribution; a second light source for emitting a second light ray; a first spatial luminance distribution conversion portion for changing the first light ray to a linear spatial luminance distribution; a second spatial luminance distribution conversion portion for changing a spatial luminance distribution of the first and second light rays to a planar spatial luminance distribution; wherein the first light ray is a laser light; the second light ray has a divergence angle larger than the divergence angle of the first light ray when the first light ray is emitted from the first light source; and a slow-axis direction of the first light ray entering the second spatial luminance distribution conversion portion is parallel to an outgoing direction of the planar light.
US08783931B2 Light injection system and method for uniform luminosity of waveguide-based displays
The attenuation of light per unit length in a waveguide as a result of active pixels (i.e., open pixels) may be corrected or mitigated by injecting apodized light into the waveguide. A light injection system and method is provided to enhance the luminous uniformity of the active pixels in a waveguide-based display. Embodiments of the present invention include a slab waveguide having a first edge and a second edge that intersect at a vertex, a first light source disposed along the first edge, and a second light source disposed along the second edge. The first light source, or the second light source, or both, comprises an apodized light source.
US08783930B2 Display device
Disclosed is a display device. The display device includes a light source, a light guide part to receive a light emitted from the light source, a light conversion member between the light source and the light guide part, and a spacer between the light source and the light conversion member.
US08783929B2 Light-transmitting decorative glass, decorative glass, and method and apparatus for manufacturing decorative glass
Provided are decorative glass and light-transmitting decorative glass products which are outstandingly decorative by processing a surface of a translucent glass plate, typically used as building materials or for other uses, without impairing the strength of the glass itself. The surface of the translucent glass plate 1, which is 4 to 25 mm in thickness, is impressed to form a plurality of radial cracks 7 each having a diameter of 0.01 to 3.0 mm, so that dots of the cracks 7 form an arbitrary character or pattern to thereby manufacture the decorative glass product. The light-transmitting decorative glass product includes the decorative glass, and a light source which is disposed so as to allow a highly directive irradiating beam to be incident upon any one of the four sides of the translucent glass plate 1 and enter the translucent glass plate.
US08783928B2 Ground composite body comprising a glass body and a plastic
A decorative composite body includes a glass body and a plastic partly enclosing the glass body, wherein part of the surface of the glass body is arranged on the outside of the decorative composite body, wherein at least two adjacent glass and plastic areas arranged on the outside of the composite body are ground in the composite state, wherein areas of the glass body adjacent to the plastic are at least partly mirrored.
US08783919B2 Bicycle lighting apparatus and method of use
A lighting apparatus and method of use provides for increasing the visibility of a cyclist. The lighting apparatus includes a plurality of lights that may be arranged in a linear array to facilitate attachment to elongate members of a bicycle. The plurality of lights can be mounted on a substrate that is received in a mounting member, which in turn can be attached to a bicycle. Alternatively, the lighting apparatus may be formed integrally as part of a bicycle. Attachment of one or more lighting apparatuses to a bicycle can provide for increased visibility of a cyclist from the front, the rear, or the side, and may be configured to provide increased visibility when it is either dark or light outside.
US08783917B2 LED retrofit module for roadway fixture
A solid state replacement light module for a high intensity discharge light fixture. The module is comprised of an elongated generally planar body having a first side including a plurality of light emitting diodes and a second side including a plurality of heat dissipating fins. The second side further includes an electronic module. The body also includes a hinge mechanism suitable for attachment to the light fixture.
US08783912B2 Cup-shaped heat dissipater having heat conductive rib and flow guide hole and applied in electric luminous body
The present invention provides a cup-shaped heat dissipater having heat conductive rib and flow guide hole, in which the outer cup bottom of the cup-shaped heat dissipater (100) is formed as a planar or convex or concave surface for accommodating the electric luminous body (200), so with the heat dissipation surface formed opposite to the cup-shaped inner recessed structure of the heat dissipater (100) and with the heat conductive rib structure (310) connecting between the inner periphery of the cup-shaped inner recessed structure of the heat dissipater (100) and the heat source zone having its bottom being installed with the electric luminous body (200) and the solid or tubular central column (103), the heat in the central heat source zone can be dissipated to the periphery through the surface of the heat conductive rib structure (310) and the surface of the heat dissipater (100).
US08783906B2 Solid state outdoor overhead lamp assembly
An outdoor overhead lamp assembly uses light emitting diodes to provide illumination for an area to be illuminated. The lamp assembly includes a unitary housing, which may be formed from a single casting. The housing includes mechanical mounting structure for mounting the housing to a mast arm. The housing includes an electrical compartment for housing electrical components and connections. Heat sink fins are formed on the integral housing that provide for thermal control of the electronic components and LED modules within the lamp assembly. The LED modules are mounted to aiming platforms within an optical compartment for the assembly. An external lens provides environmental protection for the LEDs and their individual lenses. The housing may also include structures for mounting decorative coverings or “skins” to accommodate different aesthetic requirements.
US08783905B2 Heat-dissipating module and lamp having the same
A heat-dissipating module includes a base plate and a plurality of fins. The base plate is made of sheet metal. The fins are formed by bending upwardly from the periphery of the base plate. Each of the fins has at least two bending sections. The region among the bending sections and the base plate is hollowed to form a plurality of airflow channels. By this structure, the airflow below the base plate can pass through the airflow channels to heat-exchange with the fins, thereby increasing the heat-dissipating effect. The present invention also relates to a lamp having the heat-dissipating module.
US08783896B2 Pivotable rail assembly for installing recessed lighting fixtures
A lighting fixture for installation in a ceiling grid includes a lighting assembly and at least one pivotable rail assembly attached to the lighting assembly. The rail assembly includes at least one mounting bracket, a rail and a spring. The rail is pivotable relative to the at least one mounting bracket. To insert the lighting fixture into the ceiling grid, the rail is rotated relative to the mounting bracket such that the rail will clear the ceiling grid, thereby compressing the spring. The lighting fixture is inserted into the ceiling grid and the rail is released. The compression of the spring is relaxed, and the rail rotates back into its original position. The rail, now extending beyond the boundary of the ceiling grid, rests on the ceiling grid is thereby secured within the ceiling grid.
US08783893B1 Optical illuminator
VCSEL arrays with planar electrical contacts readily adaptable for surface mounting are provided. Monolithic VCSEL arrays are configured in array patterns on two and three-dimensional surfaces for configuring optical illuminator modules. Illuminator modules are easily expandable by increasing the array size or by modularly arranging more arrays with or without a transparent substrate, in different shapes by tiling array modules monolithically on a common substrate, or by tiling small modules. The surface mountable illuminator modules are easily assembled on a thermally conductive surface that may be air or liquid cooled for efficient heat dissipation. Array modules may be integrated with other electronic circuits such as current drivers, sensors, controllers, processors, etc. on a common platform, for example, a single or multiple layer printed circuit boards (PCB) to assemble illumination systems for different applications including a gesture recognition apparatus and a battery operated portable illuminator devices.
US08783889B2 Back frame of flat panel display device, method for manufacturing back frame, and backlight system
The present invention provides a back frame of flat panel display device, which includes at least two primary assembling pieces. The at least two primary assembling pieces are joined to form a main frame structure of the back frame in which the at least two primary assembling pieces are joined with multiple space joining spots. The present invention also provides a method for manufacturing a back frame and a backlight system. The back frame of flat panel display device, the method for manufacturing back frame, and the backlight system of the present invention have a simple structure and can reduce the expenditure of the back frame mold, and can also save the material used for back frame so as to lower down the cost of flat panel display device, and also ensure the strength of the joining site of the back frame and at the same time spread the stress, thereby further ensuring the overall strength of the back frame meets the desired requirements.
US08783886B2 Illumination system
An illumination system for use in a projection device is provided. The illumination system comprises a first light source, a second light source, an optical device, a wavelength transformer and a first dichroic mirror. The first light source and the second light source emit a first light beam and a second light beam respectively. The optical device defines a main optical axis and focuses the first light beam and the second light beam on a first focal point and a second focal point respectively, wherein the first focal point and the second focal point are disposed on two opposite sides of the main optical axis respectively. The wavelength transformer is disposed on the second focal point and transforms the second light beam into a third light beam. The first dichroic mirror is disposed between the light sources and the optical device. The first light beam and the second light beam are allowed to pass through the first dichroic mirror, and the third light beam is reflected by the first dichroic mirror. After being reflected by the first dichroic mirror, the third light beam is focused onto the first focal point.
US08783878B2 Optical system and method
An optical system (100) comprises a coherent light source (101) and optical elements for directing light from the source to a target (1001). The optical elements include at least one diffusing element (141, 161) arranged to reduce a coherence volume of light from the source and a variable optical property element (151). A control system (1021) controls the variable optical property element such that different speckle patterns are formed over time at the target (1001) with a temporal frequency greater than a temporal resolution of an illumination sensor or an eye (1011) of an observer so that speckle contrast ratio in the observed illumination is reduced. The variable optical property element (151) may be a deformable mirror with a vibrating thin plate or film.
US08783870B2 Handheld telephony device for field sobriety testing
Various embodiments of a device for performing a gaze field sobriety test are disclosed. The device includes a housing. A light source is affixed in or on the housing. The light source generates light during at least a portion of the gaze field sobriety test. A speaker positioned in or on the housing generates sounds during at least a portion of the gaze field sobriety test. A power source is coupled to the speaker and the light source. An input is positioned on the housing. The input is selectable by a test administrator to initiate an audible sound through the speaker at a predetermined time interval during at least a portion of the gaze field sobriety test. The audible sound provides an indication to the test administrator during the gaze field sobriety test to assist in proper performance of the gaze field sobriety test.
US08783866B2 Optical coherence tomography (OCT) imaging systems having adaptable lens systems and related methods and computer program products
OCT imaging systems are provided for imaging a spherical-type eye including a source having an associated source arm path and a reference arm having an associated reference arm path coupled to the source path. The reference arm path has an associated reference arm path length. A sample is also provided having an associated sample arm path coupled to the source arm and reference arm paths. A lens having a focal power optimized for a diameter of the spherical-type eye is provided along with a reference arm path length adjustment module coupled to the reference arm. The reference arm path length adjustment module is configured to automatically adjust the reference arm path length such that the reference arm path length is based on an eye diameter of the subject.
US08783862B2 Eyewear having a flexural member
An eyewear article having a flexing portion including first and second longitudinally disposed ribs is disclosed. In another exemplary embodiment, the flexing portion has a maximum height (H), in a direction parallel to a mid-sagittal plane bisecting the eyewear into imaginary left and right halves, that is greater than 10 mm. The eyewear article of the present invention provides a balance of fit and comfort suitable for a range of user head sizes.
US08783860B2 Material based on cellulose acetate with plasticisers and manufactured article produced therewith
A plastic material based on cellulose acetate, including at least one plasticizer, in which the plasticizer includes a mixture of a first plasticizer including citric acid esters and at least one second plasticizer selected from the group of organic phosphates, glycerol esters and trimellitic acid esters, the content of the first plasticizer being equal to or greater than the second plasticizer and the aforementioned mixture of plasticizers constituting overall 25-35% by weight of the plastic material.
US08783859B2 Sheet conveyance apparatus, printing apparatus, and jam clearing method
A sheet conveyance apparatus comprising: a first processing unit including a first sheet conveyance mechanism; a second processing unit including a second sheet conveyance mechanism; a cutting unit, interposed between the first processing unit and the second processing unit, for cutting the sheet; and a controlling unit that controls, in a case of trouble with sheet conveyance, driving of the first sheet conveyance mechanism until an end of the sheet reaches the first processing unit side beyond a cutting position of the cutting unit.
US08783854B2 Recording device
A medium cassette includes a slidable cassette pull-out part and is capable of being lengthened and shortened, and a medium tray has a first pull-out part slidably provided to a tray base, the medium tray can be lengthened and shortened, and the medium tray is detachably provided to the top of the medium cassette. The cassette pull-out part is provided with a first engaging protrusion and a second engaging protrusion which engage with the tray base, and inclined surfaces are formed on both sides in the detachment direction of these engaging protrusions. The designs of these inclined surfaces, of the heights of the protrusions, and of other features make it possible to perform the operations of lengthening/shortening and installing/detaching the medium cassette and the medium tray separately from the other component's side without restriction, even while the medium cassette and the medium tray are engaged together.
US08783853B2 Layer forming device, image forming apparatus, and computer readable medium
A layer forming device forms a layer of liquid absorbing particles on a surface of a layer of a hardenable solution capable of being hardened in response to a given stimulus so that the liquid absorbing particles absorb liquid drops supplied to the surface of the layer of the hardenable solution.
US08783852B2 Intermediate transfer body for transfer inkjet printing and transfer inkjet printing apparatus
There is provided an intermediate transfer body for transfer inkjet printing methods in which an image is formed by selectively applying image-forming ink using an inkjet device to the intermediate transfer body and then transferred from the intermediate transfer body to a recording medium to form a transferred image. The intermediate transfer body satisfies the relation E1
US08783848B2 Marking device, manufacturing device, and marking method
A marking device includes a plurality of treatment devices, a transporting part, a static eliminator and a controller. Each of the treatment devices is configured and arranged to perform a treatment on a base material. The transporting part is configured and arranged to transport the base material between the treatment devices. The static eliminator is disposed near a path along which the base material is transported by the transporting part. The controller is configured to control the transporting part to follow a transport path routed via the static eliminator when the base material is transported to the treatment devices.
US08783845B2 System for aligning driven and idler rollers in printer
A system for aligning driven and idler rollers in a printer is provided having a housing of the printer which has a first housing portion hingedly mounted to a second housing portion such that the second housing portion is movable with respect to the first housing portion between open and closed positions, a driven roller rotatably mounted to the first housing portion for transporting media through the printer, an idler roller rotatably supported within the second housing portion for contact with the driven roller so as to provide pinched contact on the transported media, and an alignment adjustment mechanism for aligning the idler roller with the driven roller as the second housing portion is hinged into the closed position with the first housing portion.
US08783838B2 Liquid ejecting head, liquid ejecting apparatus, and piezoelectric element
A piezoelectric layer includes a buffer layer containing an oxide containing Bi and Co and disposed on an electrode, and a layer disposed on the buffer layer and containing a perovskite oxide containing Bi, Ba, Fe and Ti. A piezoelectric element includes the piezoelectric layer and the electrode. A liquid ejecting head includes a pressure generating chamber communicating with a nozzle aperture, and the piezoelectric element. A liquid ejecting apparatus includes the liquid ejecting head.
US08783835B2 Piezoelectric element, liquid ejecting head, and liquid ejecting apparatus
A piezoelectric element comprises a piezoelectric layer and electrodes provided to the piezoelectric layer. The piezoelectric layer has a perovskite structure that includes Bi, Fe, Ba, Ti, and Co, and the mole ratio of Co to the total amount of Co and Fe is 0.02 or more and 0.07 or less.
US08783834B2 Liquid ejecting head and liquid ejecting apparatus
There is provided a liquid ejecting head comprising a pressure generating chamber and a piezoelectric actuator having a piezoelectric material consisting of composite oxide. The composite oxide contains bismuth, sodium, barium, titanium, and zinc. A ratio of zinc content to the total amount of titanium and zinc is 0.35 mol % or more and 1.25 mol % or less.
US08783833B2 Ink jet print head
An ink jet print head is provided which can improve throughput by increasing an ink ejection frequency and prevent crosstalk among a plurality of heat application portions, realizing a capability of printing high-quality images at high speed. An opening size of the supply ports in a direction perpendicular to the array direction of the heat application portions is made greater than the length in the direction of electrothermal conversion elements. The supply ports are arranged along the array direction so that they adjoin the heat application portions in the array direction.
US08783831B2 Fluid ejection device having firing chamber with contoured floor
A fluid ejection device includes a firing chamber having a chamber floor with an orifice opposite the chamber floor and a heating element partially covering the chamber floor, a region of the chamber floor being contoured to define a cavity extending into the chamber floor.
US08783828B2 Recording apparatus and recording method
A recording apparatus includes: a recording head that discharges a recording ink and an undercoating ink on a recording medium; a driving section that drives at least one of the recording medium and the recording head so that the recording medium and the recording head are relatively scanned several times in one direction; and a control section that causes an undercoating layer with the undercoating ink on a predetermined area of the recording medium and a recording layer with the recording ink to be laminated by the recording head and the driving section, and simultaneously allows that the number of the scannings in a case where the undercoating ink is discharged with respect to the predetermined area is larger than the number of the scannings in a case where the recording ink is discharged with respect to the predetermined area.
US08783826B2 Fluid ejecting apparatus and method of controlling the fluid ejecting apparatus
A fluid ejecting apparatus includes a nozzle that ejects fluid; a transporting section that transports in a direction of transportation a medium on which the fluid lands; and a mist sucking section that sucks air including a mist portion when the nozzle ejects the fluid, so as to move the mist portion from a route that extends from the nozzle to the spot on the medium where the fluid lands. The mist portion is a portion of mist, which is part of the fluid ejected by the nozzle that does not land on the medium and is floating.
US08783822B2 Recording device and control method
A recording device includes: a detection unit converting scattering light generated by intersection between light emitted from a light-emitting unit and an ink droplet discharged from each nozzle of a nozzle array, into an electric signal in a light-receiving unit; a first signal generation unit amplifying the electric signal to generate a first electric signal; a determination unit determining presence or absence of an ink droplet based on a second electric signal representing change of the first electric signal; a relation information generation unit generating relation information in which an amplification value corresponding to the first electric signal generated when an arbitrary nozzle of the nozzle array discharges an ink droplet and the arbitrary nozzle are associated with each other; and a control unit performing control to amplify the electric signal at an amplification value according to a corresponding nozzle based on the relation information.
US08783821B2 Liquid discharge device, testing method, and medium with recorded program
There is provided a technique with which an abnormal discharge state in a discharge component can be determined on the basis of residual vibration. A printer includes a discharge component that discharges ink, a detector that detects residual vibration in the discharge component, and a tester that tests the discharge component on the basis of the change in the period of the residual vibration.
US08783810B2 Dot formation positioning device, recording method, setting method, and recording program
To improve positioning accuracy in a direction of relative movement of dots which are formed by a fluid ejection device in which a plurality of nozzle groups contained in the direction of the relative movement of the head section contain a plurality of nozzles in the direction of the relative movement, an ejection timing is set for adjusting in a direction of the relative movement the positions of dots formed by each of nozzle groups. A distribution of adjustment pixels is set for adjusting in the direction of the relative movement the positions of dots formed by each of nozzles. A fluid is ejected in accordance with raster data generated on the basis of a distribution of the adjustment pixels set by an adjustment pixel setting unit, on the basis of ejection timing set by a nozzle group timing setting unit.
US08783806B2 Ink jet printer and method for depositing a protective layer on a substrate
A protective layer is applied to a substrate moving relative to an ink jet nozzle array. Each nozzle responds to a piezoelectric actuator. Shapes of ink droplets deposited by the nozzles on the substrate, to form the protective layer, are controlled by shapes of electric waveforms applied to the actuators. Shapes of the waveforms respond to at least one of: droplet viscosity and temperature, temperature of the substrate, desired thickness of the layer, type of substrate surface to which the droplets are applied, and relative to speed of the substrate and the ink jet nozzle array.
US08783804B2 Functional liquid deposition using continuous liquid dispenser
A method of dispensing liquid includes providing a carrier liquid under pressure using a first liquid supply that flows from the first liquid supply through a first liquid supply channel through a liquid dispensing channel through a liquid return channel and back to the first liquid supply continuously during a drop dispensing operation. A functional liquid is provided to the liquid dispensing channel through a second liquid supply channel using a second liquid supply. A drop formation device is selectively actuated to form a discrete drop of the functional liquid in the carrier liquid flowing through the liquid dispensing channel. The functional liquid is immiscible in the carrier liquid. The drop ejection device is selectively actuated to divert the discrete drop of the functional liquid and a portion of the carrier liquid flowing through the liquid dispensing channel toward an outlet opening of the liquid dispensing channel.
US08783801B2 Household appliance
A household appliance (1) that includes a cabinet (17), a door (2) mounted on the cabinet (17) and allowing access into the cabinet (17), a glass panel (4) having an inner surface (5) and a decorative outer surface (6), mounted on the door (2), and a control panel (3), enabling the user to change various parameters, adjust and/or monitor various functions of the household appliance (1).
US08783800B2 Refrigerator and/or freezer
A refrigerator and/or freezer with at least one inside container and at least one drawer which can be slid into and pulled out of the inside container. The drawer has at least one face visible to a user of the equipment and is provided with adjustment devices for changing the position of the drawer and/or the position of the drawer face relative to the inside container in at least one direction. The adjustment devices have at least one eccentric.
US08783797B2 Electronic device having card holder
An electronic device includes a housing, a card holder, and a card holder control mechanism. The housing defines a first slot. The card holder defining a receiving recess. A resisting block protrudes from the card holder. The resisting block includes an inclined surface facing the receiving recess. The inclined surface includes a first end and a second end. The card holder control mechanism includes a pushing post, a slidable button, and an elastic element. An upper end of the pushing post is connected to the slidable button, and a lower end of the pushing post is disposed on the card holder and resists the second end of the inclined surface. The slidable button includes an operation portion extending through the housing through the second slot. One end of the elastic element is connected to the slidable button, and an opposite end is connected to the housing.
US08783793B2 Brake apparatus
A brake apparatus including a piston body disposed in a closed-ended bore in a housing, a first elastic member biasing the piston body toward a closed end of the bore, and a pressure regulating valve including a valve element, a rod and a second elastic member biasing the valve element toward a seat portion and having an elastic force smaller than that of the first elastic member, the brake apparatus having a reservoir function of reserving brake fluid flowed from a vehicular wheel cylinder in the bore by strokes of the piston body upon ABS control, the piston body being a resin-molded member having a hard member on a piston crown surface, the hard member having a hardness larger than that of a resin material of the piston body, and the piston body and the rod are brought into contact with each other via the hard member.
US08783792B2 Electromechanical brake booster
The invention relates to an electromechanical brake booster with an electric motor and a helical gearing. The brake booster is used for coupling an auxiliary force via a driver into a piston rod. The invention proposes connecting a spindle of the helical gearing elastically via a spring element to the piston rod such that, in the event of rapid actuation of the brake, the helical gearing and a rotor of the electric motor do not have to be accelerated entirely muscle power. The muscle power required for actuating a brake is reduced as a result in the event of a rapid actuation of the brake.
US08783789B2 Composite wheel with reinforced core
A one-piece composite wheel has a disc core made from a three-dimensionally reinforced honeycomb structure, with the disc core embedded by a composite material to form a disc section of the wheel. The composite material also forms the rim of the wheel, with the rim being integral with the disc section.
US08783788B2 Method of covering a wheel for decoration, streamlining, or advertising display, and a flexible wheel cover therefor
A method and apparatus (10) is disclosed for covering a cavity (11) of a wheel of a long-haul tractor-trailer, truck or the like for decoration, streamlining, and/or advertising display. Such wheels have a face, a rim, the interior of the rim defining the cavity, a boss (30) on the rim having a relatively smaller diameter and spaced from the face. The disclosed method includes providing a device (10) comprising a generally flat cover portion sized to cover the outwardly facing opening of the wheel cavity, an opening through the device, and a releasable fastener (15) for selectively closing the opening through the device, and an attachment system (12) that is sized to extend axially across the boss of the wheel to the covered, accessing the attachment system through the opening, positioning the attachment system over the boss of the wheel by way of the opening, and closing the opening, such that the cover portion closes substantially all the outwardly facing opening of the wheel.
US08783787B2 Homogeneous core wire protective cleaning tip
A method of forming a protective tip on a wire brush so as to make the brush less prone to damage sensitive surfaces, includes the steps of providing a brush with a wire core and a plurality of bristles defining a bristle block extending radially from the core and anchored in the core, and melting a portion of the wire core at an end thereof, by applying an energy source to the end, to form a protective tip.
US08783784B2 Material and equipment recovery system
A material and equipment recovery system for high risk environments has a recovery vehicle and surface control station, and a communication link between them, which may be an Ethernet link. The recovery vehicle has an operable recovery implement suitable to its particular application. The surface control station has an operator station from which an operator can operate the recovery vehicle remotely. Cameras on the recovery vehicle provide images for an operator to maneuver the recovery vehicle and monitor systems on the recovery vehicle. The surface control station also has a winch and recovery cable that attaches to the recovery vehicle to retrieve it should it become disabled. An optical alignment device on the surface control station allows alignment of the surface control station to keep the retrieval cable effective. The recovery vehicle and control station have hitch elements and the recovery vehicle can reposition the control station at a site.
US08783783B1 Chute assembly for an end-dump truck
A chute assembly for mounting on the discharge end of the dump body of an end-dump truck to support the flow of particulate material being discharged from the dump body. A flexible load plate is sandwiched between a pair of rigid support plates and extends outwardly from the support plates for supporting the particulate material being discharged from the chute assembly.
US08783782B2 Safety belt for a vehicle
A safety belt for a vehicle which can be worn in a manner of wearing suspenders to prevent a concentration of pressure to a part of the body of a seat occupant, and to uniformly distribute impact to thereby safely protect the seat occupant even upon the occurrence of an emergency during travel. To accomplish the above-described object, the safety belt for a vehicle according to the present invention comprises a pair of belts spaced apart from each other in a vertical direction on the front surface of a seatback and a connection unit for interconnecting the pair of belts.
US08783780B2 Vehicle seat
A vehicle seat is formed by mounting cushion materials on a seat frame having a seat back frame and a seat cushion frame and covering the cushion materials with skin materials. At least one of the seat back frame and the seat cushion frame is provided with a first frame receiving a load of a passenger, and a second frame spaced from the first frame to face the first frame, and peripheral portions of the first frame and peripheral portions of the second frame are at least partially overlapped with each other to form overlapping portions, and fixed and jointed at a position away from the side where the load of the passenger is received.
US08783779B2 Knock-down stool
A stool includes an internal frame including a base, a seat and a plurality of stiles coupling the base to the seat. A sling material is stretched between and coupled to opposing sides of the seat. A slipcover fits over the internal frame and includes an end panel and a plurality of side panels that define an open end located opposite the end panel. The end panel includes a padded cushion that rests on top of the sling material.
US08783778B2 Mounting platform for modular furniture assembly
A modular furniture assembly includes: a base member having a frame assembly, a transverse member having a frame assembly, a foot configured to contact a support surface, and a mounting platform having a plurality of apertures therethrough. The mounting platform is configured to be mounted on the base member frame assembly and the transverse member frame assembly, thereby connecting the frame assemblies. The foot is selectively mounted on the mounting platform, such that the foot is configured to contact the support surface when the modular furniture assembly is in an upright configuration. The mounting platform connects the base and transverse member frame assemblies together and also acts as a platform for receiving a variety of different types of feet.
US08783777B2 Headrest support structure
It is to suppress the deformation of a tubular support. A headrest support structure includes: a stay extending downward from a headrest; a bracket provided to a backrest so as to be formed in a tubular shape, and extending vertically; a tubular portion having an insertion hole in which the stay is inserted, the tubular portion being fitted into the bracket, and extending vertically; a first projection portion projecting from an outer peripheral surface of an upper part of the tubular portion, and facing to an inner surface of the bracket; a second projection portion projecting from the outer peripheral surface of a middle part in an up-and-down direction of the tubular portion, and facing to the inner surface of the bracket; a third projection portion projecting from the outer peripheral surface of a lower part of the tubular portion, and facing to the inner surface of the bracket; a first connection portion located between the first projection portion and the second projection portion; and a second connection portion located between the second projection portion and the third projection portion.
US08783775B2 Locking device, especially for an adjustment fitting and especially for a vehicle seat, and vehicle seat
A locking device for an adjustment fitting of a vehicle seat includes a locking cam rotatable about a first rotational axis and a locking pawl rotatable about a second rotational axis. The locking device is settable into a locking position and a release position. The locking cam comprises one piece having a first locking region and a first safety region. The locking pawl has a second locking region and a second safety region. The first and second locking regions contact one another in the locking position of the device, and the first and second safety regions lie opposite one another or contact one another in the locking position.
US08783774B2 Drive unit for a vehicle seat
A drive unit (5) for a vehicle seat, in particular for a motor vehicle seat, has a motor (51), a gear unit which is provided on the drive output side of the motor (51) which has at least a drive output wheel which is rotatably supported about a core axis (K). The drive output wheel is provided with a core (59) which is rotatable about the core axis (K). The core (59) has a shaft receptacle (60) for a drive shaft (7) with a shaft axis (W) as central axis. The core axis (K) and the shaft axis (W) are offset in parallel by an eccentricity.
US08783771B2 Extendable seat pan assembly with comfort spring
An extendable seat pan assembly configured to be supported on spaced side walls of a seat frame and including a seat pan frame having spaced frame rails retained longitudinally parallel to and adjacent the side walls, and a seat pan slidably supported on the frame rails and defining an opening therethough spanned by a spring assembly including a plurality of springs. An aircraft passenger seat including an extendable seat pan assembly.
US08783769B2 Electromagnetic children's bouncer
Various embodiments of the present invention are directed to a children's bouncer apparatus. In various embodiments, the apparatus includes a support frame, seat assembly configured to support a child, and bouncer control device. The support frame includes one or more semi-rigid support arms that extend above a base portion and suspend the seat assembly above the base portion. The bouncer control device is configured to impart a driving force on the seat assembly via a magnetic drive assembly, thereby causing the seat assembly to continuously oscillate at the natural frequency of the children's bouncer.
US08783766B2 Modular display assembly
Described are display assemblies having a display coupled to a passenger seat back, a video shroud coupled to the passenger seat back and with an inner opening positioned adjacent the display, wherein a gap is positioned between an outer edge of the display and an edge of the inner opening, and an adaptor having a lip and coupled to the video shroud, wherein the lip is positioned adjacent the gap. A portion of the lip may surround at least the outer edge of the display and/or may overlap a portion of the video shroud.
US08783764B2 Power-assisted reclining lift chair with single power actuator
A seating unit includes: a base; a frame with arms on opposing sides; a seat; a backrest; at least one ottoman; a reclining mechanism, a lift mechanism and a power unit. The reclining mechanism interconnects the frame, the seat, the backrest, and the at least one ottoman, and comprises a series of pivotally interconnected links and configured to move the seating unit between (a) an upright position, in which the backrest is generally upright and defines a first backrest angle relative to horizontal, the seat is generally horizontal, and the at least one ottoman is retracted below the seat, (b) a TV position, in which the backrest substantially maintains the first backrest angle, and the at least one ottoman is extended in front of the seat, and a fully reclined position, in the at least one ottoman remains extended on front of the seat, and the backrest defines a second backrest angle relative to horizontal that is shallower than the first backrest angle. The lift mechanism interconnects the base and the frame and is configured to move the seating unit between the upright position and a lift position, in which both the frame and the seat are raised and tilted forward from their respective positions in the upright position, and the backrest defines a third backrest angle relative to horizontal that is greater than the first backrest angle. The power unit is interconnected with the reclining mechanism and the lift mechanism and is configured to move the seating unit between the lift, upright, TV and fully reclined positions. A lowermost portion of the backrest moves substantially directly vertically when moving from the upright position to the lift position. In such a configuration, the arrangement of the backrest and/or seat can provide the occupant with a more secure sensation as the chair lifts; it does not produce a sensation of the occupant being “thrown” from the chair, as can be the case with other lift chairs.
US08783762B2 Sleeve for the guiding-through of at least one line
For facilitating mounting of a head section of a sleeve, which is used for guiding a line, in a mounting opening, a reinforcing part is provided. The reinforcing part is placed in the radial direction on the line only after the guiding-through of the line and the insertion of the head section in the mounting opening. The reinforcing part is divided at least into two mutually displaceable sections. After the placing of the reinforcing part on the line, the two sections of the reinforcing part are guided together. Subsequently, the reinforcing part is inserted in the axial direction into the head section of the sleeve. By use of the reinforcing part, the sealing effect of the sleeve is improved, and a twisting of the sleeve in the mounting opening is prevented.
US08783755B2 Partially dismountable hard shell for vehicles with bed
The hard shell comprises a fore element (1) and a back element (2) permanently mounted on the bed and a certain number of intermediate elements (3, 4, 5, 6, 7); the fore element (1) and the back element (2) of the shell are made up of rigid frames; to each free end of the girders a moving element is fixed, sliding in a rail (19) fixed to the side edge of the motor vehicle bed; each intermediate element (3, 4, 5, 6, 7) is formed by at least one upper crosspiece (3.1, 4.1, 5.1, 6.1, 7.1) and two girders (3.2, 4.2, 5.2, 6.2, 7.2); each girder (3.2, 4.2, 5.2, 6.2, 7.2) is hinged to the upper crosspieces (3.1, 4.1, 5.1, 6.1, 7.1); each intermediate element (3, 4, 5, 6, 7) is foldable along the hinge plans and the girders (3.2, 4.2, 5.2, 6.2, 7.2) are placed under the upper crosspiece (3.1, 4.1, 5.1, 6.1, 7.1) when the shell is not mounted.
US08783752B2 Mobile device retention and charging tray
A console assembly for an automotive vehicle and use with a mobile device. The console assembly including a storage compartment having a floor, a pair of sidewalls, and a pair of end walls. An opening permits access into the storage area and a slidable top wall is operable to move between a covered position and a retracted position relative to the opening. An anti-slip surface is provided on the top wall and configured to receive the mobile device thereon. A wireless charging unit is also incorporated into and moveable with the top wall. The wireless charging unit is located immediately below the anti-slip surface. When the mobile device is placed on the anti-slip surface, the device is moveable with the top wall, between the covered position and retracted position, while being charged.
US08783751B2 Coextruded root ditch molding with hard and soft components including associated fastener system
A coextruded molding for mounting within a vehicle roof ditch having an elongated trim defining component constructed of a first material and a structurally supporting component constructed of a second harder material coextruded along a surface of the first material. The structural supporting component includes a main body terminating at inwardly angled ends so as to define an extending track. A plurality of fasteners are seated within the track for mounting the molding to the vehicle roof ditch.
US08783748B1 Fishing rod retainer systems
A fishing rod retainer system is a device for enabling a fisherman to conveniently carry and transport several fishing poles at once, without tangling the fishing lines, to a fishing location for use. The device also uniquely enables the fisherman to stably place the multi-fishing-rod holder assembly in a vertical position on the flat outside surface of the second end-cap pole retainer, onto a flat ground surface, with multiple fishing rods securely placed within the plurality of first pole receivers and second pole receivers. The first end-cap pole retainer and the second end-cap pole retainer have in line concentrically located apertures that are about 2 inches in diameter so that the multi-fishing-rod holder assembly is able to be slideably inserted onto a secure post for complete stability during usage.
US08783747B2 Laminate structure generator, and stacking method and apparatus for secondary cell including the same
A stacking apparatus for a secondary cell includes a guide roller guiding a film, and a laminate structure generator disposed parallel to the film vertically descended by the guide roller, the laminate structure generator includes a first hand including a first palm and a first finger extending from the first palm, the first finger being disposed parallel to the film to face one side of the film, and a second hand including a second palm and a second finger extending from the second palm to cross the first finger, the second finger being disposed parallel to the film to face the other side of the film, at least one of the first hand and the second hand being moved in a direction of separating from the other.
US08783744B2 Door strike having a kicker and an adjustable dead latch release
An actuator-controlled strike comprising a housing disposable within a doorframe and including a cavity for a spring latch and a dead latch of a mortise-type lockset. A keeper is pivotably mounted within the chamber to engage the spring latch. A pivotably mounted kicker cooperates with the keeper. A pivotably mounted dead latch release is supported by the keeper when the spring latch is within the strike. The keeper is released by the actuator and rotates into a position to ramp the spring latch out of the strike, also allowing the dead latch release to release the dead latch into the cavity, allowing the spring latch to be ramped out of the strike. Pivoting the keeper causes the kicker to urge the spring latch onto an exit ramp on a face of the keeper. The dead latch release can be installed in a plurality of different locations in the housing.
US08783743B2 Outside handle assembly of vehicle
An outside handle assembly of a vehicle includes a handle grip having a pivot end at one end thereof and an operating lever at the other end thereof, and a handle base located in a door panel and coupled to the handle grip that can be pulled by a user. Here, an initial setting lever is mounted at a rear side of the handle base. A balance weight mounted at the rear side of the handle base by the medium of a return spring is moved in an open direction to be hooked and locked by the initial setting lever. Also, the operating lever of the handle grip has a perpendicularly-bent end at the end thereof such that the operating lever is inserted into the handle base without an interference with the balance weight.
US08783738B2 Vehicle latch device
A vehicle latch device including: a releasing unit that rotates about a support shaft provided on a holding member of an electric actuator and includes a cam pin and an output unit that disengages a latch from a ratchet by rotation of the releasing unit about the support shaft, where a driving force of the electric actuator being input to the cam pin; and a gear member that rotates about the support shaft, connects the electric actuator to the releasing unit, and inputs a driving force of the electric actuator into the input unit. The cam pin is arranged to be superimposed on a plane of rotation of the gear member, and the vehicle latch device further includes a cover member that is attached to the holding member and covers at least the support shaft, the input unit, the electric actuator, and the gear member.
US08783737B2 Closure lock
A closure lock, in particular to a lock for a cover of a laboratory centrifuge and a housing of the laboratory centrifuge. The closure lock provides a particularly effective, loadable and safe lock which is not only actuatable through a power drive, but which also provides robust self blocking with respect to strong vibrations and high crash energies.
US08783733B2 Fluid handling swivel joints and fluid conveyance equipment incorporating the same
A fluid handling swivel joint and fluid conveyance equipment incorporating the same includes a first flanged portion, a tail portion that form a conduit. The fluid handling swivel joint also includes a body secured to the first flanged portion and at least partially surrounding the tail portion, where the body and the tail portion form a raceway. The fluid handling swivel joint further includes a primary seal positioned between the first flanged portion and the tail portion, and a secondary seal positioned between the first flanged portion and the tail portion and radially outward of the primary seal. The fluid handling swivel joint also includes a first environmental seal and a second environmental seal positioned to contact two of the first flanged portion, the tail portion, and the body to form an isolated volume around the plurality of roller elements.
US08783730B2 Flanges for watertight coupling of smooth surface pipes
A flange assembly for a watertight coupling of smooth surface pipe includes a triple metal ring provided for anchoring and retention and having three unitary rings which are identical and form substantially an entirety of a circumference and a sheet on which the unitary rings are solidly joined and which constitutes a base of the triple ring. Each of the unitary rings is provided throughout an entirety of its inner edge with folds forming in their outer most part a succession of vertices. The unitary rings are configured to rest on a smooth outer surface of pipes and the vertices are driven into the smooth outer surface to prevent an axial displacement allowing an application of the triple ring, and to distribute a penetrating action so as to decrease a possibility of tearing and damage of the smooth outer surface of the pipes.
US08783729B2 Coupling system including a safety fastener device
A coupling system including a coupling for fastening to one end of a pipe via a fastening connection is provided. The coupling system includes a safety fastener device in the form of a sleeve surrounding the fastening connection and having a first end for welding to the pipe, and a hook-forming second end for co-operating with the coupling in such a manner that the hook is suitable for providing fastening between the coupling and the pipe in the event of the fastening connection is damaged.
US08783724B2 Gas exhaust device for retractor pretensioner for vehicle
Disclosed herein is a gas exhaust device of a retractor pretensioner for a vehicle, including a pinion connected to a belt weaving spool in a retractor body; a rack linearly transferred when engaged with the pinion; a rack transfer path formed between a pretensioner body and the retractor body, configured to guide the rack linearly toward the pinion; and a micro-gas generator (MGG) mounted on a side of a lower end of the pretensioner body to elevate the rack toward the pinion using gas generated by the MGG, wherein a gas moving aperture is formed to allow communication between an upper portion and a lower portion of the rack transfer path in a longitudinal direction in the rack, to elevate the rack using the gas generated from the MGG and simultaneously, move the rack toward the upper portion of the rack transfer path through the gas moving aperture.
US08783721B2 Metallic hollow columnar member
A metallic hollow columnar member with a polygonal cross-section having at least five vertices and sides extending between the vertices, is disclosed. The polygonal cross-section is divided by two vertices (A, B) with small inside angles into two perimeter segments with a perimeter comprising one or more sides, and at least one of the two perimeter segments contains at least four sides. The respective inside angles of at least three vertices (V(i)) included in the perimeter segment which includes the at least four sides are equal to or less than 180°, the distance (SS(i)) between each of the at least three vertices (V(i)) and a straight line (L) connecting the two vertices (A, B) is shorter than ½ of the distance between the two vertices (A, B), and the inside angle of the vertex (C) with the smallest inside angle among the at least three vertices (V(i)) is larger than the inside angles of the two vertices (A, B). Vertices (VI) are present on the perimeter segment including the at least four sides, respectively between the vertex (C) with the smallest inside angle among the at least three vertices (V(i)) and one (A) of the two vertices (A, B), and between the vertex (C) with the smallest inside angle and the other (B) of the two vertices (A, B), said vertices (VI) having inside angles larger than the inside angle of the vertex (C) with the smallest inside angle.
US08783720B2 Reduced-size vehicle with complementary internal compartments and suspension system components
Various embodiments of reduced-size vehicles such as all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) and utility vehicles (UVs) are disclosed herein. In at least some embodiments, the vehicles include frames that are wider near the front and rear sections of the vehicles than within the mid-sections of the vehicles. This, in combination with the use of shock-absorbers that are substantially vertically oriented, allows for the opening-up of large interior cavities within the front and rear sections of the vehicles within which can be positioned large front and rear internal compartments that can provide storage/carrying capacity as well as added buoyancy for the vehicle, among other things. Also, in at least some embodiments, the vehicles can include special cooling and/or exhaust systems having components that are positioned substantially within the mid-sections of the vehicles, thus further increasing the amounts of space available for the cavities/compartments within the front and rear sections of the vehicles.
US08783713B2 Airbag device
An airbag device with an airbag module (1) for attachment to a structural part of a motor vehicle with a housing (2), an airbag (3) arranged therein, a gas generator (4), as well as a support (5) via which the airbag module (1) can be attached to a motor vehicle component, wherein a fastener (41) is positioned on a gas generator (4) via which the gas generator (4) can be attached to the housing (2) and/or the support (5). On the support (5) and/or on the housing (2) at least one spacer (21, 51) is provided between the housing (2) and the support (5), between the housing (2) and the gas generator (4), and/or between the support (5) and the gas generator (3), in the form of cavities in which a discharge channel (22, 52) is constructed in the plane of the intermediate area formed by the spacers (21, 51).
US08783711B2 Low mass passenger airbag design
An airbag module including a housing, an airbag disposed within the housing, and a chute enclosing the airbag within the housing. The chute includes a seam formed therein that is operable to open during deployment of the airbag, wherein the chute includes a projection that extends toward the housing, and the housing includes a grasping feature that engages with the projection during deployment of the airbag to assist in opening the seam.
US08783708B2 Collapsible stroller
A collapsible stroller includes a collapsible seat-support frame and a frame lock coupled to the seat-support frame. The frame lock is operable by a caregiver to retain the seat-support frame in an erect configuration or release the seat-support frame so that it is free to move to a collapsed storage configuration.
US08783705B2 Gooseneck coupler with slideable style locking members
A gooseneck coupler may be used on a towing vehicle to help tow certain types of towed vehicles, such as trailers. The gooseneck coupler may include a first tube, a base member attached to the first tube, and a locking member pivotally attached to the base member—the locking member being capable of engaging a hitch ball. The gooseneck coupler may also include a locking mechanism attached to the locking member, where the locking mechanism is capable of securing the locking member in engagement with the hitch ball.
US08783702B2 Single-axis damping joint for connecting chassis components for vehicles
The present invention relates to a single-axis damping joint for connecting chassis components for a vehicle, and more particularly, to a single-axis damping joint for connecting chassis components for a vehicle, capable of improving performance of absorbing forward and backward vibration of a vehicle body and vibration due to distortion force while improving durability.To this end, the present invention provides the single-axis damping joint for connecting chassis components for the vehicle, including: a ball stud including a spherical portion on an axis; bearings disposed so as to induce rotation of the ball stud in an axis direction; a sheet member configured to support an external circumferential surface of the bearing; a buffer member disposed at an external circumferential surface of the sheet member; and an outer pipe configured to protect the sheet member from the outside while being in close contact with the external circumferential surface of the sheet member and coupled to one end of a lower arm.
US08783699B2 Truck and wheel bearing assembly
An improved skateboard or roller-skate truck and wheel bearing assembly is disclosed containing an axle bearing yoke, base, grommet, and wheel and bearing combination which delivers improved steering precision, steering control, and wheel alignment. A grommet in the truck includes a bearing surface on a face which engages a bearing member in the yoke and restricts arcuate movements of the yoke and wheels. The contours of the grommet are also unique and contribute to steering control. The wheel and bearing combination incorporates paired bearing casings with bell-shaped members in their ends which meet each other inside a wheel of the board or skate and self-adjust to accommodate imperfections in the bearing seat levelness, bearing seat spacing, axle diameter and axle straightness.
US08783696B2 Vehicle-height adjustment apparatus of motorcycle
In a vehicle-height adjustment apparatus of a motorcycle having the hydraulic jack attached to the damper, damping force characteristics of a damper are stabilized, the influence of the charged gas pressure of an oil reservoir chamber is eliminated, and the sealing performance of a hydraulic jack is reduced. In the vehicle-height adjustment apparatus of a motorcycle, a back pressure chamber is provided on a side opposite to a jack chamber, with a plunger being interposed therebetween inside a hydraulic jack, and this back pressure chamber is communicated with a hydraulic chamber inside a damper tube.
US08783694B2 Sealing structure
A sealing structure having a gasket installed in an installation groove in one member. The gasket has a body section whose width is less than the width of the installation groove. On opposite ends, in the depth direction of the installation groove, there is provided a pair of seal surfaces that contact a surface of another member and the bottom of the installation groove. The bottom surface of the installation groove is a curve that is deepest at its center in the width direction of the groove. On the gasket body section, on the side corresponding to the bottom of the installation groove, there is formed a pair of groove bottom-side projections extending along the longitudinal direction of the gasket with the seal surface between the projections, projecting from opposite ends in the width direction of the body section, and coming into contact with the surface of the installation groove.
US08783692B2 Multilayer static gasket with bead compression limiter
A multilayer cylinder head gasket has a pair of functional layers and a distance layer with aligned openings. Each functional layer has a full bead located radially outwardly from and extending about its opening. Each functional layer also has a half bead spaced from the full bead. The distance layer includes a first portion extending radially from the opening and having a first thickness. A second portion of the distance layer extends radially from the first portion and has a second thickness that is less than the first thickness. A third portion of the distance layer extends radially from the second portion and has a third thickness less than the second thickness. The distance layer comprises a plurality of pieces, and at least one of the pieces limits compression of at least one of the full beads when the functional layers are compressed together.
US08783691B2 Mechanical seal device
A mechanical seal device is provided for use when fluid pressure is frequently switched between positive and counter pressures. A rotary ring is provided on a rotary shaft and a stationary ring assembly is provided on which the stationary ring side sliding face is formed. A seal cover is provided containing the stationary ring assembly on an inner diameter side and supports the freely moving assembly in an axial direction of the rotary shaft along with a first O-ring to seal the first fluid and a second O-ring to seal the second fluid. A low-pressure chamber is sealed from the first fluid and the second fluid and maintains pressure lower than those of the first and the second fluids.
US08783687B1 Three-dimensional game devices and methods of use and manufacture
Three-dimensional game devices and methods of their use and manufacture are provided. One game device is disclosed for use with a plurality of game pieces and includes a three-dimensional pathway segmented into a plurality of distinct spaces in which the game pieces fit. The pathway rises and falls in elevation with at least one portion of the pathway passing over at least one other portion of the pathway such that the game pieces pass over the underlying portion and under the overlying portion when traveling along the pathway. The pathway is at least partially defined in a housing. An entrance portion of the pathway may be sloped downwardly and at least partially covered; and an exit portion of the pathway may be sloped downwardly, at least partially covered, and include an opening through which the game pieces pass to exit the pathway.
US08783683B2 Image forming apparatus and image forming system
An image forming apparatus acquires sheet information indicating paper weight or the like of a transported sheet of paper. The apparatus also has a control portion and shifts a reference position which has been previously set to a direction orthogonal to a transporting direction of the sheet of paper based on the paper weight or the like of the transported sheet of paper. A deviation sensor detects a deviation of the sheet of paper with regard to the shifted reference position along the direction orthogonal to the transporting direction of the sheet of paper. A sheet shift portion shifts the sheet of paper to the shifted reference position based on the deviation detected by the deviation sensor.
US08783682B2 Image recording apparatus
There is provided an image recording apparatus including: a main body with first and second transporting paths, a transporting roller pair, a recording portion, a reversal roller pair, a re-transporting roller pair, a transporting motor, first and second transmission mechanisms, and a controller. The second transmission mechanism has: a sun gear, an arm, a pendulum gear, and a gear row. The second transmission mechanism is configured to change a posture between a first posture and a second posture. The controller is configured to determine a position of the sheet, determine a size of the sheet, switch the rotation of the transporting motor under certain conditions, and increase the rotation amount of the transporting motor more for the case that the size of the sheet is determined to be not less than a transport distance than for the case that it is determined to be less than the transport distance.
US08783681B2 Paper-pressing tray mounting apparatus for printing apparatus
A paper-pressing tray mounting apparatus for a printing apparatus includes a first paper support tray, a second paper support tray mounted on the first paper support tray, a paper-pressing tray pivotally mounted on the second paper support tray, and a sliding panel mounted on the second paper support tray. When the second paper support tray moves toward the first paper support tray along a first direction, the sliding panel moves on the second paper support tray along a second direction opposite to the first direction, the sliding panel abuts against the paper-pressing tray, the paper-pressing tray rotates toward the first paper support tray around the second paper support tray, the second paper support tray is accommodated in the first paper support tray, and the paper-pressing tray is accommodated between the first paper support tray and the second paper support tray.
US08783678B2 Sheet storage cassette and image forming apparatus
A sheet storage cassette can include a sheet supporting board and a restriction guide. The sheet supporting board can support at least one sheet thereon. The restriction guide can be arranged on the sheet supporting board and include a sheet holding surface that is substantially perpendicular to the sheet support board. The restriction guide can further include a mark indicated part at an upper side thereof, where the mark indicated part can extend at least partly along a plane that intersects a plane of the holding surface and can indicate a maximum storage capacity level of the sheet storage cassette.
US08783674B2 Stage
Provided is a substrate stage which can transfer a substrate at a high speed. In the substrate stage of the present invention, auxiliary mounting tables are attached to a main mounting table, and lower rails are arranged over on the main mounting table and above the auxiliary mounting tables. When both ends of the lower rails are bent upwardly by a vertically adjusting unit in order to prevent the both ends of the lower rails to be bent downwardly, the lower rails are made straight. Since the lower rail is not divided, the linearity is ensured and the moving plate does not stutter so that transfer of the substrate at high speed can be performed.
US08783669B2 Push-push type stylus eject mechanism
A push-push type stylus eject mechanism includes a rail disposed on a substrate, a hook disposed on the substrate, a slide device sliding relative to the substrate, an elastic device connecting the slide device and the hook, and a guide arm having an end pivoted on the slide device and another end having a pin. The slide device could couple to a stylus. The slide device has a pressing element. The rail has a first positioning point and a second positioning point. The pin is moved between the first positioning point and the second positioning point when the stylus is pushed, and the guide arm is pressed by the pressing element to prevent the pin releasing from the rail.
US08783665B2 Interchangeable bottletop aerator
An interchangeable bottletop aerator for controllably mixing air with a liquid contained in a bottle. The apparatus includes a receptacle and an interchangeable aerator module that is inserted into the receptacle. The receptacle engages and seals the bottle through a multi lumen cylinder that extends inside the narrow neck of the bottle. It has internal structures to adjust flow characteristics of the liquid and encapsulates the module. The module has multiple channels and sections to apply predetermined aeration and flow speed to the contained liquid. The inserted module can be replaced on demand with a different module to change the aeration parameters and adapt the aeration characteristics to various liquids. The interchangeable bottletop aerator presents a solution to the changing aeration requirements of different liquids like wine in a compact, easy to use, and easy to produce package by means of simply replacing and employing different modules inside the receptacle.
US08783663B2 Humidifying apparatus
Humidifying apparatus includes a humidifier for emitting moist air into an external environment, and a fan assembly for generating an air current within the external environment for conveying the emitted moist air away from the humidifier. The fan assembly includes a device for creating an air flow and a nozzle including an interior passage for receiving the air flow and a mouth for emitting the air flow. The humidifier is located behind nozzle, the nozzle extending about and defining an opening through which both air from outside the nozzle and the moist air emitted from the humidifier are drawn by the air flow emitted from the mouth.
US08783661B1 Fence system
A fence system, and method for making same, includes at least one support member, and at least one infill material having an edge. At least one union strip is coupled to the at least one support member, the at least one union strip including at least one channel configured for receiving the edge of the at least one infill material. In one embodiment of the invention, the at least one channel is U-shaped, and the edge is configured in a U-shape for matingly engaging the at least one U-shaped channel.
US08783660B1 Selectively locatable lifting system
A selectively positionable lifting system for a utility trailer, or the like, in which a jacking system is selectively attachable to a strategic position of the utility trailer in order to lift said trailer at the jack point for maintenance and repair purposes, the jacking system being easily removed and stowed when not in use.
US08783657B2 Top entry plastic ball valve
A top entry plastic ball valve comprises a valve stem cap (1), a valve stem (2), a valve stem sealing ring (3), a valve ball sealing ring (5), a supporting ring (6) for the valve ball sealing ring, a valve ball (7), a connecting pipe (8), and a valve body (9). A hollow valve ball chamber (911) is provided inside the valve body (9), the valve body (9) is provided with a valve cover hole (912) just above the valve ball chamber (911), and the width of the valve cover hole (912) is larger than the diameter of the valve ball (7). The ball valve also comprises a valve cover (4), which is provided with a valve stem shaft hole (410) for allowing the valve stem (2) to pass through and corresponds to the valve cover hole (912) so that the valve cover (4) can cover the valve cover hole (912) and can be fusion-bonded to the valve body (9), thereby avoiding the need for electric fusion welding process in the manufacture of large-diameter ball valves.
US08783656B2 Valve assembly
A valve assembly includes a valve body and a bonnet. The valve body has a cylindrical access channel with adjoining at least one radial keyway. At least one coupling cavity adjoins and is out of register with the at least one radial keyway. The bonnet has a cylindrical body with at least one radially extending lug. The at least one lug is configured and sized to be accepted by the at least one radial keyway and to be housed within the at least one coupling cavity when the cylindrical body is twisted so that the at least one lug is out of register with the at least one radial keyway.
US08783655B2 Connector structure for pressure pipe
A connector structure for a pressure pipe includes a female connector and a male connector. The female connector includes a piston and a positioning sleeve therein. The female connector has inner threads. The positioning sleeve has outer threads. A nut is fitted on the positioning sleeve. The outer threads of the positioning sleeve are mated with the inner threads of the female connector. The piston has an insertion section to be inserted in the positioning sleeve. The insertion section has a slot and is provided with a first seal ring. The male connector has threads on an outer wall thereof for engagement of the nut of the female connector. The male connector has a coupling section and a second seal ring.
US08783653B2 Multi-port modular valve with snap-in seat
A solenoid operated modular valve includes a solenoid body having a coil and a pole piece positioned in the solenoid body. A valve body cartridge is connected to the solenoid body. A polymeric snap-in seat assembly includes first and second deflectable claw arms each having a barb engaging the valve body cartridge retaining the snap-in seat assembly in direct contact with the valve body cartridge. A seat engagement face when contacted by a valve seal member defines a valve closed position, and is displaced away from the seat engagement face in a valve open position when the coil is energized. A valve body cartridge body end portion includes a barb engagement face having pitched contact edges each having a continuous pitch directly contacted by the barb of the first and second deflectable claw arms to rotatably and frictionally lock the snap-in seat assembly to the valve body cartridge.
US08783651B2 Sanitary fitting with a joint
A sanitary fitting includes a joint arrangement having a support connection piece that defines an abutment face that is at least approximately flat; a joint part that rests flat against the abutment face by way of an at least approximately flat mating face, and defines a neutral position; a spring that is supported at one end against the support connection piece and at the other end against the joint part, the spring using a spring force to push the joint part against the abutment face by way of the mating face; and a rod-like extremity that is arranged on the joint part at a fixed angle in relation to the mating face.
US08783649B2 Sleeve valve with permanent end position
A sleeve valve including a permanent end position and comprising an inner sleeve concentrically disposed within an outer sleeve comprising at least one radially facing outer opening and an operating range defined by an open position in which the inner sleeve does not block the outer opening, and a closed position in which the inner sleeve blocks the outer opening. The inner sleeve is axially displaceable or rotatable within the outer sleeve to provide an operating range in the longitudinal direction or an operating range in the form of an angle. At least one plastically deformable locking area of one the inner or outer sleeve is adapted for being radially deformed into a locking groove of the other sleeve when the inner sleeve is moved outside of the operating range.
US08783643B2 Blowout preventer and rams
A ram type blowout preventer having a seal on each ram, extending across the front face, rearwardly and then over the top portion or the bottom portion of the ram. Each ram forms a leading edge portion above or below the front face seal, so as opposing rams move into the extended sealing position, the leading edge portions of the rams press against each other, imparting a generally vertical movement to bring the seals on the front faces into sealing engagement with each other and to energize the seals extending over the top or bottom portions against the ram bores. The front face of each ram may include a portion which is inclined toward the central bore. Rope packing seals may be provided on the rams having a vertical offset at the front faces of the rams such that rope packing seals on opposing front faces seal against each other.
US08783641B2 Foldable supporting bracket for portable electronic apparatus
A foldable supporting bracket for a portable electronic apparatus includes a supporting arm, a holding element, and two load-bearing bars. The supporting arm has a first pivot shaft at one terminal thereof and the holding element has a second pivot shaft at one terminal thereof. The two load-bearing bars are separated to each other and pivotally arranged between the first pivot shaft and the second pivot shaft to form a hollow containing region. The supporting arm and the holding element are pivotally connected to the two load-bearing bars via the first pivot shaft and the second pivot shat, respectively, so that the supporting arm and the holding element are flipped toward the hollow containing region. Accordingly, the supporting arm and the holding element are folded in the hollow containing region and then levelly arranged to the two load-bearing bars, thus reducing occupied space and increasing carry convenience.
US08783640B2 Rotatable drive connection that reduces chatter
A rotatable drive connection is provided for transmitting torque. The connection includes a first component having an aperture with a plurality of corners. The connection further includes a second component having an end portion with a plurality of edges. The end portion of the second component is smaller than the aperture of the first component. The end portion of the second component is disposed within the aperture of the first component such that at least one of the edges of the end portion is always biased into engagement with at least one of the corners of the aperture throughout a full rotation of the first and second components.
US08783637B2 Temporary shaft support system
A temporary shaft support system is provided that can be used with an enclosure such as food processing equipment. The system may include a holder for engaging a shaft to be supported, and a lift that is supported from the food processing equipment at a position that is higher than the shaft to allow the shaft to be suspended and supported without occupying floor space of the food processing equipment. The lift may be supported by a top wall of the food processing equipment or may be supported by a drive mount that attaches a shaft-rotating drive to the food processing equipment.
US08783634B2 Suction device
A suction device having the ability to adhere to rough surfaces is provided, along with methods for attaching the suction device to a target surface. The suction device includes a body having a suction area and a plurality of micro-rods depending from margins of the suction area. The micro-rods provide sufficient friction when placed against a target surface that a suction seal can be formed by generating negative pressure between the suction area and the target surface. In certain embodiments, the suction device provides suction even on wet or underwater surfaces.
US08783632B2 Supporter retained by bottom of furniture
A supporter includes a rectangular plate or polygonal base plate. The base plate has a plurality of threaded hole for arranging at least two pushers. Four plastic feet are arranged to four bottom corners of the base plate for stand. The pusher consists of a claw, pusher shaft, and a nut. A sleeve is arranged to a predetermined position of the base plate or a front end of a slider for connecting an extension supporting rack. The sleeve has a lower round base for connecting the base plate and an upper hollow cylinder for receiving the extension support rack. The supporter is fixed to a bottom of a couch or bed for linking the extension supporting rack.
US08783630B2 Riser clamp
A riser clamp (1) made up of several parts and designed to carry a plurality of fluid pipes (11) in parallel with and spaced apart from a surface coated steel riser (10) is shown. The riser (10) itself is designed to be deployed into the sea for communication between a well head at the seabed and a surface vessel. Each riser clamp (1) is designed for frictional, non rotatable fixation to the surface coated riser (10) and is provided with a plurality of pipe saddles (V) to carry the respective fluid pipes (11). The riser clamp (1) has an internal abutment surface (2) made of fiber reinforced composite material which is configured substantially complementary to and designed to bear against the external, surface coated surface of the riser (10). The riser clamp (1) is tightened by means of circumferentially acting tightening means.
US08783629B2 Attachment system for lines, in particular for cables for wind turbines
An attachment system for lines, in particular for cables for wind turbines, has a base body (1) secured to a support structure and forming at least one line bushing having an opening closed by a cover part (7) screwed to the base body (1) for insertion of lines. At least one receiving element in the pertinent line bushing forms a receiving space (23) matched to the line or lines to be secured. The cover part (7) has contact surfaces (29) for the pertinent lines located in the respective receiving spaces (23). A spring arrangement (25) produces pretensioning active between the receiving element (9) and contact surface (29) of the cover part (7).
US08783628B2 Flexible cable management system
A cable support apparatus is provided. The cable support apparatus includes an elongate spine member, and a plurality of support members each attached to the elongate spine member, each of the plurality of support members defining at least one cable receiving portion therein, wherein at least one of the plurality of support members further includes a hanger for retaining one or more cables separate from the at least one cable receiving portion.
US08783626B2 Light rail vehicle monitoring and stop bar overrun system
A satellite positioning location based control and monitoring system for light rail transit systems which enables transit personnel to track vehicle positions, progress and non-vital signals as light rail vehicles travel through their routes while eliminating the capital and maintenance costs associated with embedded light rail transit monitoring systems.
US08783621B2 Method and system for controlling a set of at least two satellites, designed to provide a service on a geostationary orbit, rendering said service on a non-geostationary orbit
A method is provided for controlling a set of at least two satellites, designed to provide a service on a geostationary orbit, rendering said service on a non-geostationary orbit, in which means involved in the performance of said service, installed on board a satellite, are deactivated when the sun can damage it, and means involved in the performance of said service installed on board another satellite of the set are activated, when this is necessary to the continuity of the service.
US08783607B2 UAV recovery system
An unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) recovery system comprises a base and a pneumatic capture net, including a set of upwardly extending, flexible, inflatable tubes, supported by a capture net support assembly. Drag forces are exerted on a UAV by the set of tubes when the UAV flies into them. In some examples the recovery system includes a plurality of decelerators, each decelerator having a supply of a restraint strap, connected to the pneumatic net, which can be pulled from the decelerator upon the application of a sufficient force so that movement of the pneumatic net is resistible by forces exertable by the decelerators on the pneumatic net.
US08783604B2 Aircraft wing with knuckled rib structure
An aircraft wing has hinged ribs, and a skin covering the ribs. The ribs each include plural rib sections, array from the leading edge of the wing, to the trailing edge of the wing, and a lock to hold the rib sections together in a deployed state or condition. The wings are initially in a stowed state, with the ribs and the rib sections having a curved chord, and deploy to the deployed state, in which the ribs have a straightened chord that defines an airfoil state. The wing may have foam material between the ribs to allow the wings to expand in the wingspan direction, for instance after the ribs have been placed in the deployed state.
US08783598B2 Web rewinding apparatus
A web rewinding apparatus comprising a turret winder and a mandrel cupping assembly is disclosed. The turret winder has a rotatably driven turret supporting a plurality of rotatably driven mandrels capable of engaging cores upon which a web material is convolutely wound thereabout. The mandrel cupping assembly has a plurality of cupping arms each cooperatively associated with one of the plurality of mandrels and having a mandrel cup for releaseably engaging the unsupported ends of the cooperatively associated mandrel. The mandrel cupping assembly has a cupping arm support having a hold-open cam track and a hold-closed cam track. Each cupping arm is carried in a radial path while disposed in either of the hold-open cam track or said hold-closed cam track. A first actuator disposes the cupping arm from the hold-open cam track to the hold-closed cam track.
US08783597B2 System for evenly winding a hose on a reel
A device for evenly winding a hose on a reel is provided, comprising, (1) a static shaft; (2) a pulley, adapted to move along the shaft, in an oscillatory motion in ±x directions, and further adapted to receive the hose, be made to rotate by the hose, and convert a motion of the hose, in a direction substantially orthogonal to the x-axis, to a rotation of the pulley, and as a result of the rotation, to the oscillatory motion in the ±x directions; and (3) a pulley housing, configured for containing the hose within and further configured for moving along the shaft with the pulley, thus ensuring that the hose travels with the pulley, in the oscillatory motion along the shaft. Additionally, the system may include a mechanism, configured for engaging the hose with the shaft, without impeding the even winding motion.
US08783594B2 Roller mill with driven grinding roller
A roller mill includes a rotatable grinding table, at least one grinding roller that is retained rotatably on a pivot lever and is in rolling engagement with the grinding table, with the pivot lever being arranged for pivoting about a pivot lever axis, and a drive train associated with the grinding roller in order to drive the grinding roller with a fixed motor.
US08783591B2 Method of preparing wood fibers for a cultivation substrate
Wood chips are fed into a sheath containing two parallel screws that mesh with each other, their respective threads having, at least an upstream series of segments and a downstream series of segments, each of which comprises a drive upstream zone in which the chips are driven downstream and a braking downstream zone through which the chips are forced, the chips thus being driven through the sheath while being braked in the braking zones and while being transformed into fibers. The transit time for which the chips remain in the sheath lies in the range 1.5 s to 80 s, and provision is made for the pressure to be at least substantially equal to 90 bars upstream from the braking zone of the upstream series, so that a temperature lying in the range 120° to 150° C. is reached inside the sheath (10) without supplying external heat.
US08783589B2 Grinding method
A method of grinding a particulate material, comprising grinding said material in a stirred mill in the presence of a grinding media comprising rod-shaped particles, wherein said rod-shaped particles have an aspect ratio of equal to or greater than about 2:1.
US08783586B2 Injector for internal combustion engine
A hole axis of a communication hole is placed at a location, which coincides with a translated location of a hole axis of a connector hole that is translated toward an axial distal end portion of a main body in an axial direction of the main body. In this way, with respect to a high pressure flow passage, which is bent by 90 degrees and extends through the connector hole, the communication hole and an axial flow passage, the amount of projection of a projecting portion at an inner side area of this bent, which is located on the inner side of the bent, is reduced.
US08783583B2 Droplet deposition apparatus
Droplet deposition apparatus including at least one droplet ejection unit having a plurality of fluid channels disposed side by side in a row, an actuator, and a plurality of nozzles, said actuator being actuable to eject a droplet of fluid from a fluid channel through a respective nozzle, a support member for said at least one droplet ejection unit, a first conduit extending along said row and to one side of both said support member and said at least one droplet ejection unit for conveying droplet fluid to each of the fluid channels of said at least one droplet ejection unit; and a second conduit extending along said row and to the other side of both said support member and said at least one droplet ejection unit for receiving droplet fluid from each of the fluid channels of said at least one droplet ejection unit.
US08783582B2 Adjustable arc irrigation sprinkler nozzle configured for positive indexing
An adjustable arc spray nozzle for an irrigation sprinkler is provided, where positive indexing is provided at a plurality of present locations between relatively rotatable components of the nozzle for defining predetermined arcuate extents of the spray pattern.
US08783580B2 Personalised support such as an identity card comprising anti-falsification means
The invention concerns a support having a surface provided with personalizing data and including anti-counterfeit measures, arranged on at least part of the surface. The anti-counterfeit measures are configured to be modified in appearance under the effect of an additional personalization of the surface part and appear as defects visible at the surface of the card.
US08783578B2 Dynamic display information card
In general, embodiments of the present invention provide a card (e.g., identification, debit card, credit card, smart card, etc.) having a dynamic information display panel integrated therein. The display panel is typically activated when user uses the card. This can occur when the card is swiped, and/or is powered up via an integrated energy panel (e.g., by an external light source). Alternatively, the card can be powered by RFID coupling, smart IC contact, battery, etc. Upon powering up, displayed information is used to: identify the user; and/or show private information to user only. Along these lines, displayed information can remain in card memory and/or on the display until next transaction, or it can be deleted after a programmed duration.
US08783576B2 Memory card having multiple interfaces and reset control method thereof
A method and apparatus for resetting a memory card having a plurality of interfaces and a plurality of function blocks, wherein each function block may be associated with a corresponding interface, may include detecting a reset signal for a selected interface of the plurality of interfaces, and interrupting a function block associated with the selected interface. When the selected interface is the only active interface, all function blocks in the memory card may be reset. If interfaces other than the selected interface are active, only the selected interface may be reset.
US08783570B2 Reader with optical character recognition
An imaging-based bar code reader that includes an imaging and decoding system. Focusing optics and a sensor array define a field of view. A data processor has a memory for storing a pattern definition of previously imaged OCR characters and comparing a format of said previously stored characters to a present image to determine a character content of the present image.
US08783561B2 System and method for administering a loyalty program and processing payments
The present invention is directed to a system and method for administration of a customer loyalty program at a point of sale terminal. The system, in one embodiment, contains a database of customer records for the loyalty program where each customer record contains information about a customer's payment device and information about a customer's mobile device. The system may locate a customer record in a database based on payment device or mobile device information captured at the point of sale terminal and apply any applicable loyalty program discounts. The system may then forward the payment device information to a third-party payment processor for payment processing. The system may print out a receipt at the point of sale terminal indicating any discounts and containing a promotional message. The system may also send a promotional message to the customer's mobile device using the mobile device information stored in the customer's record.
US08783559B2 State detection
An apparatus and method are disclosed for determining an empty condition in an item of media container. The apparatus includes a plate member, comprising a reflective region, that moves towards an empty position as items of media are dispensed from a container, and a mask element which is locatable in a first position as items of media are dispensed, and a further position when the container is empty. An empty condition of the container is determined responsive to the mask element being located in the further position.
US08783556B2 System for managing the nutritional content for nutritional substances
Disclosed herein is an information encoding, marking, tracking, and transmission system for information related to nutritional substances, including nutritional content. Upon the creation of a nutritional substance, whether grown, raised, caught, collected or synthesized, information regarding the nutritional substance is accumulated, encoded and referenced to the particular nutritional substance. This information can be marked directly on the nutritional substance, but can instead be stored elsewhere, and referenced to the nutritional substance by means of a marking, unique identifier, a unique inherent property, unique genetic attribute, or an induced genetic attribute. A consumer of the nutritional substance can use this reference to retrieve the information regarding the creation of the particular nutritional substance.
US08783554B2 Information reading apparatus, commodity sales information processing apparatus, and pasted object
According to one embodiment, an information reading apparatus includes a first image-data specifying section, a second image-data specifying section, a correspondence determining section, an information-code specifying section, and an information specifying section. The first image-data specifying section specifies, from photographed image data, first image data corresponding to an information code given to a commodity. The second image-data specifying section specifies, from the photographed image data, second image data corresponding to a pasted object pasted to the commodity. The correspondence determining section determines that the first image data and the second image data correspond to each other when the first image data is located, with respect to the second image data, in a direction specified on the basis of the second image data. The information-code specifying section specifies the information code from the first image data. The information specifying section specifies information from the second image data.
US08783549B2 Packing box
A packing box and method of forming a packing box provides a bottom plate, a pair of first side plates which upon final assembly are bent with respect to the bottom plate so as to face each other, a pair of second side plates which upon final assembly are bent with respect to the bottom plate so as to facing each other, and a pair of flaps at both sides of each of the first side plates which upon final assembly are bent with respect to the first side plate. Each of the flaps includes a first flap portion and a second flap portion, and before final assembly, the first flap portion is connected to a first side plate and the second flap portion is connected to the first flap portion, bent with respect to the first flap portion and affixed to one of the second side plates.
US08783548B2 Sports car carton
A carton assembled from semi-rigid material presents a sports car configuration and is formed from a sheet of the semi-rigid material that presents a base panel having spaced, opposed lateral edges presenting fold lines from which side panels are folded upwardly to present the sides of the sports car body. Each of the side panels has replicas of a front and a rear wheel to support the sports car on an underlying surface. The hood of the sports car extends downwardly and inwardly, and a rear panel folds downwardly to present the rear end of the sports car body thereby providing an assembled carton having the sports car configuration.
US08783538B1 Bucket and tool holder
A work mans belt-mounted holder which allows a container to be suspended from the waist of a work man freeing up his hands. The holder has a belt receiving member of flexible material with slots to securely hold the belt receiving member on a belt.The holder is fixedly attached to belt receiving member and projects from the receiving member to hold a container. Built into the holder are openings for hand tools to be placed for easy access when needed.
US08783536B1 Universal bicycle rack with lifting mechanism
A universal bicycle rack with a lifting mechanism comprises a vehicle hitch-mounted bicycle carrier with mechanical vertical adjustment capabilities, a bicycle rack and a crank assembly. The bicycle rack comprises a durable metal bicycle receiving and retaining structure which provides securement of a plurality of bicycles to a motor vehicle for transport. The rack is connected to a crank assembly, comprising a hitch receiver, a vertical adjustment assembly, and a crank handle. The crank assembly is attached to an existing vehicle hitch via the hitch receiver portion. The vertical adjustment assembly provides attachment to the bicycle rack. The height of the attachment portion is manually adjustable via the crank handle. In use, a user may lower the rack, roll a bicycle into position over the rack, and utilize the crank handle to raise the rack and bicycles off of the ground surface for subsequent transport.
US08783535B2 Attachment means and bag including same
The present invention provides an integrated attachment and carrying means for detachable attachment to a transport device comprising a carrying means for carrying by a user; and at least one attachment means comprising a means for attachment to a transport device, wherein the attachment means is attached to or integrated with the carrying means. The invention further provides a bag featuring such an integrated attachment and carrying means and a method of use of such an integrated attachment and carrying means.
US08783534B1 Ladder support device
A ladder support device is disclosed for engaging a ladder. The ladder supporting device comprises a base plate having a first hanger plate and a second hanger plate extending from the base support plate. A first retainer plate and a second retainer plate extend from the first hanger plate and the second hanger plate respectively. A clip plate extends from the base plate for receiving the waistband and securing the base plate to the individual. The base plate, the first hanger plate and the first retainer plate define a first carriage for engaging the step of the ladder. The base plate, the second hanger plate and the second retainer plate define a second carriage for engaging the first stringer or the second stringer of the ladder.
US08783533B1 Hand covering with hook and loop attachment member for portable electronic devices
A hand covering with hook and loop attachment member for a portable electronic device including a swivel ball mount, the swivel ball mount configured to engage a swivel ball of a base, a sheath configured to partially encompass and conform to a user's hand, the sheath in operational communication with the swivel ball mount, an elastomeric drawstring and elastomeric bands continuously disposed around various passageways of the sheath, a stopper frictionally and slidingly engaged with the drawstring, and a hook and loop attachment means disposed on each of the base and a portable electronic device, wherein the portable electronic device is attachable to and alternately detachable from the base of the hand covering. The present hand covering with hook and loop attachment member aids in holding portable electronic devices and prevents the dropping and breaking of said devices from tired fingers and sweaty hands.
US08783521B2 Container for eye drops
A flexible and restorable container main body for housing a medicinal solution. A stopper member is fixed in an inside of a medicinal solution passage that communicates with the container main body for discharging the medicinal solution when the container main body is pressed and deformed. A pressure valve is arranged in the medicinal solution passage at a downstream side in the medicinal solution discharge direction further than the stopper member and is formed with an opening having a circular cross section which contacts a tip portion of the stopper member. A biasing member is provided at a downstream side for biasing the pressure valve in a direction opposite to the medicinal solution discharge direction by abutting against a peripheral portion of the opening of the pressure valve.
US08783514B2 Dispensing gun for a collapsible adhesive-filled container
A portable gun provides for the dispensing of flowable adhesives. The gun accommodates a flowable adhesive contained in a collapsible container which adhesive is dispensed through an extending dispensing nozzle.
US08783513B2 Product dispensing system
A product dispensing system includes a flow control device configured to regulate a first ingredient. A pump module is configured to be coupled to a supply of a second ingredient. A controller is configured to provide a first control signal to the flow control device for controlling the supply of a first quantity of the first ingredient based upon, at least in part, a predetermined recipe. The controller is further configured to provide a second control signal to the pump module for controlling the supply of a first quantity of the second ingredient based upon, at least in part, the predetermined recipe.
US08783504B2 Pressure vessel for storing a fluid
A pressure vessel for storing a fluid, comprises an outer jacket applied to a plastic core container, the outer jacket comprising a first fibre-reinforced reinforcing device with one or several wound layers comprising first fibres that are embedded in a first matrix material, a second fibre-reinforced reinforcing device formed on the outside of the first device and with one or several wound layers comprising second fibres that are embedded in a second matrix material, and an impact-absorbing thickening of the outer jacket in a polar cap region of the plastic core container. The thickening is formed in that one or several wound layers that are thickened in the polar region are formed in at least one of the reinforcing devices with a face opening that is larger than a face opening of other non-thickened wound layers in at least one of the reinforcing devices.
US08783498B2 Slow cooker with fastening mechanism
A slow cooker with fastening mechanism includes a housing, handles on the side wall of the housing, and a lid, wherein a movable fastening mechanism is provided on the upper side of the lid, and each of the handles is hinged to a clamping hook and corresponds to the movable fastening mechanism, so that the clamping hook can interact with the movable fastening mechanism. The inner pot can be closed tightly by the action of the clamping hook. With two compressing parts provided on the clamping hook and the dismountable sealing ring around the lid rim, the inner pot can be closed tightly by the lid. The lid handle is fixed onto the lid via threaded connection with sealing plugs in the connection sites.
US08783496B2 Double-opening can lid
An improved beverage container of the type having a lid, a pour panel defined in the lid by a pour score and a vent panel defined in the lid by a vent score. A tab pivotally is mounted to the lid, wherein lifting the tab about a pivot in a lifting direction fractures the pour score and opens the pour panel. A secondary tab is carried by the tab, and is released into contact with the vent panel by lifting the tab to fracture the pour score, wherein pressing the tab in a direction generally opposite the lifting direction causes the secondary tab to fracture the vent score and open the vent panel. At least one anti-rotation member is disposed between the tab and the lid to prevent the tab from rotating about the rivet.
US08783495B2 Can end
A can end for a beverage container has a circumferential curl positioned about a longitudinal axis, a wall extending downwardly from the curl, a strengthening member joined to the wall, and a center panel joined to the strengthening member and extending radially inwardly relative to longitudinal axis. A rivet is located at a center position of the center panel. A frangible score has terminal ends located on a common side of the rivet. The terminal ends are separated by a non-frangible hinge segment. A displaceable tear panel is defined by the frangible score and the non-frangible hinge segment. A non-detachable tab has a nose and a lift end. The nose overlies a portion of the displaceable tear panel. A deboss groove is located on the public side of the center panel and extends downwardly in a direction towards the product side. The deboss groove is located adjacent the score line.
US08783493B2 Package provided with a leaktight opening and closing device
The invention relates to the field of packages of consumable product provided with a substantially plane wall (15) and fitted with an orifice (13). A package is equipped with an opening and closing device (1) comprising a body (2) in a single piece, made of molded material, fixed on the wall (15), this body (2) comprising a plate (20) fitted with a hole (30) placed opposite the orifice (13) and fixed on the edge (19) of the orifice (13) of the wall (15) in a leaktight manner, and a door (40) articulated to this plate (20) opening towards the interior of the package and capable of blocking this hole (30) in a leaktight manner, and in that it further comprises an arm (50) connected to the door (40), the arm (50) cooperating with blocking means in a position such that it keeps the door (40) in a leaktight blocking position, and releasing the door (40) in pivoting towards the interior of the package when it is disengaged from the blocking means, and in that it further comprises a cover (80) distinct from the body (2) and from the arm (50), and which is fitted with a safety disc (100, 104) which must be broken during initial opening of the door (40), such that if the safety disc is intact, it is guaranteed that the package has never been opened previously, the disc forming part of the blocking means.
US08783489B2 Collapsible storage container
A collapsible cargo container is disclosed wherein end walls are pivoted into the container when empty and locked against the roof, and then side walls buckle via hinges into a folded configuration. The folded configuration is achieved easily with a modified spreader without the need to otherwise disassemble or deconstruct the container, leaving no loose parts or tools. The cargo container preferably constructed with an improved light weight panel that facilitates loading of the container while improving strength and reducing weight.
US08783487B2 Silicone resin container
A container made of silicone resin is sufficiently compactable in a collapsed state. The container includes a tubular barrel portion, a bottom portion having a flat surface, a mouth portion having an opening, and a lid portion sealing the opening of the mouth portion, with at least the barrel portion and the bottom portion formed by molding. One end of a binder is attached to the mouth portion and can hold the rolled-up barrel portion and the bottom portion.
US08783485B2 Container
Container (100) for loosely stored products comprising a container body (10), a cover (20), and a hinge (22) placed between the container body (10) and the cover (20) wherein the cover (20) has a cylindrical inner wall (30) and a cylindrical outer wall (32), and the inner wall (30) is provided with a sealing portion (34) at the outer edge of the inner wall (30), wherein the vertical position. (A) of an apex (36) of the sealing portion (34) is smaller than the vertical height (B) of the outer wall (32).
US08783483B2 Child-resistant closure
A child-resistant closure (10) is provided and comprises a base (15) and a lid (20). The base has an inner skirt (50) and an outer skirt (25). The closure has locking means (81, 86) tor releasably locking the lid in a closed position. The outer skirt has one or more pressing zones (80, 85) which can be pressed to release the locking means. The inner skirt has one or more cut-outs (65, 70) in register with the or each pressing zone whereby to allow greater deflection thereof.
US08783482B2 Modular receptacle formed by a plurality of axially-nestable containers, and method for producing such containers by means of the blow-moulding of a preform
The invention relates to a modular receptacle formed by a plurality of axially-nestable necked containers. The neck of the containers includes a flange which cooperates with a recessed tubular chamber provided in the base of the containers. The flange is housed in the chamber, such that it is free to move radially, but bears axially against a shoulder in one direction. Bosses are provided on a flared section that extends from the neck and said bosses are received in cavities located in a flared pocket that extends from the above-mentioned chamber. The bosses and cavities form members that provide axial and radial stabilization for the nesting arrangement formed when the flange bears against the shoulder and they include inclined lateral-pressure-bearing ramps used to separate two assembled containers.
US08783478B2 Hoisting crane and offshore vessel
A hoisting crane comprising a substantially hollow vertical column, a jib, a jib winch and a jib hoisting cable is provided. The crane further a hoisting winch and an associated hoisting cable, the hoisting winch being disposed in the column, so that the hoisting cable extends from the winch through the column. The jib winch and the hoisting winch are arranged on a rotatable winch support, such that the winch support is mounted movable with respect to the vertical column. The hoisting crane further comprises a deep water winch positioned below the rotatable winch support and an associated deep water cable for raising and lowering a load extending through the rotation axis of the rotatable winch support, so that the deep water cable extends from the deep water winch through the hollow vertical column. The present invention further relates to a vessel provided with such a crane.
US08783476B2 Cladded fixture
The display fixture system comprises a framework on which a removable cover is secured. Each visible structural member of the framework is covered with a removable cover or cladding in which the vertical members are held in place by the horizontal members. Each vertical and horizontal member is also independently held to the framework by a magnet or other fastener. By virtue of being easily removable, each of the vertical and horizontal members may be decorated according to an easily changeable theme or color.
US08783475B2 Hanging apparel strap
A hanging apparel strap for providing suitable and convenient storage for a variety of items for work, play and/or outdoor activities including a support member, a cord fixedly attached at intermediate locations along the length of the support member, and a plurality of tabs spaced at intermediate intervals along the length thereof. The plurality of tabs allow the cord positioned therebetween to form a plurality of spaced eyelets along the length of the cord for attaching items thereto. The cord extends beyond at least one end portion of the support member and forms a loop for allowing the apparel strap to be hung from a hook or other object.
US08783473B1 Folding clothes rack
A triangular folding clothes rack (1) having a top tubular cross piece (2) with an inner axle (3) to allow a front frame (4) of the rack and a rear frame (5) of the rack to fold outward into an open position for drying articles of clothing and inward into a closed position for storing the rack. Clothes may be hung from the top tubular piece and/or hanging rods (9) either directly and/or by using conventional hangers. Offsets (13) located on the rear frame and extensions (14) located on hanging rods allow clothes to be hung without the clothes lying on top of each other, thereby providing maximum airflow between the clothes to allow for expedited drying.
US08783469B2 Roll sorter device and sorting method for sorting preforms and transport device with such a roll sorter device
A roll sorter device has a first roll that can be driven rotatably about its roll axis and a second roll that can be driven rotatably about its roll axis opposite the rotation of the first roll. The second roll is arranged spaced from the first roll such that the roll axes of the first and second rolls are arranged substantially parallel to each other. The roll sorter device may include a detection device for detecting seized and/or faulty preforms on the first or second roll and a roll arrangement modification element to modify the arrangement of the first and second rolls to each other when the detection device detects seized preforms. A sorting method for sorting performs and a transport device may employ the aforementioned roll sorter device.
US08783467B2 Bump array device having asymmetric gaps for segregation of particles
The disclosure relates to obstacle array devices (also known as bump array devices) for separating populations of particles by size. Improvements over previous obstacle array devices are realized by causing the fluid velocity profile across gaps between obstacles to be asymmetrical with respect to the plane that bisects the gap and is parallel to the direction of bulk fluid flow. Such asymmetry can be achieved by selecting the shape(s) of the obstacles bounding the gap such that the portions of the obstacles upstream from, downstream from or bridging the narrowest portion of the gap are asymmetrical with respect to that plane.Improvements are also realized by using obstacles that have sharp edges bounding the gaps. Other improvements are realized by selecting obstacle shapes such that the critical particle dimensions defined by the gaps in two different fluid flow directions differ.
US08783465B2 Mobile classifier
A mobile classifier (deduster) has docking devices, flushing devices and control for the dedusting of granules, in particular polymer granules, with preference polycarbonate granules. The mobile classifier can be set up at different locations underneath silos. To perform its function, the mobile classifier is technically connected to stationary pipelines, filters and fans.
US08783456B2 Housing for encasing an object
An apparatus and system for housing a device include a housing that is configured such that a device may be fitted within the housing and thereby be protected, such as from shocks and/or liquid. The housing may include top and bottom members that may be removably coupled together so as to form the housing. Each top and bottom member optionally includes front and back surfaces surrounded by a perimeter. The perimeter is defined by proximal and distal ends as well as opposing sides. The top and bottom members may include respective clasping mechanisms that extend along the perimeter of the top and bottom members. The clasping mechanisms are configured for coupling the top and bottom members with one another thereby sealing the housing, for instance, in a shock-proof and/or water tight seal.
US08783452B2 Bottle with dispensing device
A bottle with a dispensing device includes a cap having a female screw; a tubular element, coaxial with the female screw, having a lower end, which is closed by a bottom wall and projects inside the neck of the bottle; and a collar joined to the top of the tubular element through a tear-away. A hollow piston having an open lower end is inserted in the tubular element and is suitable for breaking through the bottom wall of the cap after the collar together with the tear-away ring has been removed. The hollow piston and bottom wall of the tubular element define a chamber containing a product. The lower end of the hollow piston has an inclined profile. Means are provided to stop the stroke of the hollow piston before the bottom wall completely detaches and prevent the hollow piston from rotating at the end of its stroke.
US08783451B2 Unit dose breakable vial with integrated brush applicator
A disposable sterile breakable vial includes a handle section and a vial section which are completely separable in response to a manually applied separation force. The vial section includes a sterile void dimensioned to contain a unit dose of a sterile therapeutic topical agent. An elongated member comprises a proximal portion supported by the handle section and a distal portion provided with a sterile applicator element, such as a brush. At least the applicator element is completely enclosed within the vial section with the applicator element immersed within the therapeutic topical agent. A hermetic seal between the handle and vial sections maintains sterility of at least the vial section prior to handle and vial section separation. Complete separation of the handle section and the vial section exposes the elongated member and the applicator element for topical application of the therapeutic agent saturating the applicator element.
US08783449B2 Conveyor chain
Disclosed is a conveyor chain (100) in which a large number of chain links (110) on which components are loaded are linked at hinge sections by means of hinge pins (120) and in which a plurality of free rollers are provided protruding from both the front and rear surfaces of the chain links (110), wherein the plurality of free rollers are each rotationally held in roller holders to form roller units (130) and are formed so as to be attachable from the longitudinal direction in a unit attachment region of the chain links (110). By means of the aforementioned structure, it is possible to replace worn components by means of a simple operation and it is unnecessary to replace chain links (110) which have not become worn, costs are reduced, and it is simple to change the rotation direction of the free rollers.
US08783446B2 Tail drive assembly
An assembly for replacing the top sigma sections in a tail drive of an armored face conveyor is described. The assembly joins the sigmas to the top deck in a single unit, providing more robust mounting support. The assembly may also include one or more mounting pins, as well as one or more access doors. The assembly requires no welding to the tail drive.
US08783445B2 Upper-strand well for a trough pan and trough pan having such an upper-strand well
A trough pan with an upper strand trough and to an upper strand trough for a trough pan of a scraper chain conveyor, with two side profiles, and with a trough bottom. The trough bottom has two side edges and two end edges which have at least partially a wavy boundary line and which are provided at the transition of a top side into the end edge with a chamfer having a chamfer angle. In order to improve the upper strand troughs and the trough pans equipped with these in terms of the problem of the penetration of fine coal into the intermediate gap of the bearing region between the trough bottom and intermediate bottom, the end edges are provided with a bevel between the chamfer and an underside, the bevel sloping more steeply than the chamfer.
US08783441B2 Transport system and transport method
According to an embodiment, a transport system configured to transport a receptacle which accommodates an upright sample holder containing a sample, the transport system including a screw includes a rotatable shaft disposed along a predetermined transport path and a helical ridge protruding outward from an outer peripheral surface of the shaft, and a drive unit configured to rotate the screw.
US08783438B2 Diverter arm for retail checkstand and retail checkstands and methods incorporating same
A diverter arm of a design that is configured to more effectively direct the movement of items along a retail checkstand, and checkout systems and methods incorporating such a diverter arm, are provided. In one embodiment, the diverter arm comprises an elongated block portion; an upper body portion positioned on top of the block portion substantially along its length, the upper body portion comprising at least a front face; and at least one bristle portion projecting downward from the bottom of the block portion substantially along its length.
US08783437B2 Control arrangement for controlling a people mover
A control arrangement is provided for controlling a people mover. The people mover includes a movable conveyor track for transporting people and a control unit. The conveyor track is arranged to move at a first speed when transporting passengers. The control unit is arranged to detect passengers of the people mover with a passenger detection device and to measure the time passed since the last detection of a passenger. After the measured time has reached a set value of a delay time, the control unit operates to decrease the speed of the conveyor track of the people mover either to a lower second speed or to completely stop the movement. The set value of the delay time can be changed by an action of the control unit.
US08783435B2 Bill discriminating and counting apparatus
The present invention relates to a bill discriminating and counting apparatus having a function in which two operators can commonly operate the one apparatus. That is, two pairs of a process instruction button for instructing start/stop of a discriminating and counting process and an approval button for approving counting result are provided, two independent storage areas are provided in a storage area in which the counting result is stored, the counting result is stored in the corresponding storage area while each storage area is associated with the pair of the process instruction button and the approval button, and two operators can commonly use the one bill discriminating and counting apparatus by providing occupation switching means for switching an occupation state of the bill discriminating and counting apparatus and occupation state display means for displaying a current-occupation state.
US08783434B2 Vehicle transmission with built-in brake
A hydraulic piston is housed in a cylinder chamber that is provided in a cover plate of a transmission case and that opens toward a pressing arm so that the hydraulic piston is capable of rotating the pressing arm by abutting against a rearward arm portion of the pressing arm, and a hydraulic pipe supplying pressure oil to the cylinder chamber is connected to the cover plate.
US08783431B2 Fast detachable side wheel device
A fast detachable side wheel device, comprising: a first wheel cover, a second wheel cover, a wheel body, and a movable component. Firstly, wheel body is fixed in first receiving groove of second wheel cover as a replaceable component. Through positioning of a dovetail groove of first wheel cover and a dovetail tenon of second wheel cover, thus vibration, collision, or detachment of wheel body due to outside force can be avoided. Then, the movable component is used to control the positioning or detaching states between first wheel cover and second wheel cover, thus achieving fast and labor saving assembly and detachment of side wheels.
US08783429B2 Hydraulic brake device for a bicycle
A hydraulic brake device for a bicycle includes a holder, a chamber member and two side oil tubes, the holder assembled with the bicycle, the chamber member assembled to the holder and having two oil tanks, each oil tank having an operating bar movably received therein, the brake cable connected with the operating bar, each oil tank having a brake oil drain and a side oil hole, a distance being defined between each brake oil drain and each corresponding side oil hole, each brake oil drain and each side oil hole communicating with the chamber member, each brake oil drain assembled to a brake hose and communicating with a brake system of the bicycle, the chamber member having two assembling grooves, two ends of each side oil tube assembled to each corresponding side oil hole and each corresponding assembling groove respectively.
US08783428B2 Brake shoe and brake lining blocks with keyed connection
A brake shoe assembly comprising a brake shoe to which brake plates are assembled. The brake shoe and brake plates are connected by a key or tang in one to a key way or slot in the other. Preassembled fasteners are provided on the brake plates to facilitate alignment of the brake plates with the brake shoe so that the key is received in the slot. Fasteners may be provided in four open corner areas so that the brake plate may be secured to the brake shoe with metal-to-metal contact where the brake plate is secured to the brake shoe. A brake shoe having a cylindrical outer surface or an outer surface defined by a plurality of flats is provided.
US08783417B2 Minimal lubrication device with fine regulation of the oil flow
A minimal lubrication device including a lubricant fluid storage reservoir, unit for raising the pressure of the lubricant fluid fed to at least one modular element, the modular element includes a lubricant fluid conduit intercepted by a flow regulator, and a compressed air conduit. The lubricant conduit and the compressed air conduit are associated with an air/lubricant mixer element. The flow regulator includes a valving element at least partly housed within a sized hole and movable therein via a control stem. The stem has at least one portion of conical profile having a length equal to at least 3 times the diameter of the sized hole.
US08783412B2 Sound absorber for a gas turbine exhaust cone, and method for the production thereof
A method for manufacturing a sound absorber, the outer wall of which is provided with a plurality of recesses, with funnel-like cone elements each being assigned to the recesses inside the sound absorber, said cone elements having a larger opening facing radially outwards and a smaller opening facing radially inwards, with adjacent cone elements each being provided on a strip-shaped first carrier band, with cup elements being provided radially on the inside relative to the cone elements, and each cup element receiving one cone element, with adjacent cup elements each being provided on a strip-shaped first carrier band, with the first carrier bands being arranged adjacently in a first direction, and the second carrier bands being arranged adjacently in a second direction, with the directions crossing each other and the carrier bands being joined to one another and to the outer wall to form a rigid body.
US08783407B2 Steering system having a hydraulic steering column
The invention relates to a steering system for a motor vehicle, comprising a steering wheel, a steering gear shaft and a hydraulic master unit, the steering gear shaft being in mechanical active connection with the master unit via a toothing, and also comprising hydraulic lines and a hydraulic slave unit in a steering gear which, for swivelling steerable wheels is mechanically coupled therewith, an electronic control for controlling an electric servomotor being provided which is actively connected to the steering gear, the active connection between the steering shaft and the hydraulic master unit being a toothing with a variable transmission.
US08783405B2 Saddle-type electric vehicle
A saddle-type electric vehicle is provided with a drive battery and an effectively placed motor unit. The drive battery is mounted directly under a main frame section of a vehicle frame, and the motor unit is fixedly supported to the vehicle frame. The motor unit includes a motor body disposed below a pivot connection of a rear swing arm, and at least a part of the motor body is disposed rearwardly of the pivot connection.
US08783404B2 Vehicle bracket
A bracket (3) is installed in an engine room (12) of a vehicle (1) for supporting accessories (2). The bracket (3) includes: an upper anchoring portion (3a) and a lower anchoring portion (3b) each for anchoring the bracket (3) to the vehicle body (11); and a first supporting portion (3c) and a second supporting portion (3d) for securing the accessories (2) thereto, respectively. The lower anchoring portion (3b) is located below the upper anchoring portion (3a). The first supporting portion (3c) extends vertically between the upper anchoring portion (3a) and the lower anchoring portion (3b). The second supporting portion (3d) extends from the upper anchoring portion (3a) and is horizontally opposed to the first supporting portion (3c). The upper anchoring portion (3a), the lower anchoring portion (3b), the first supporting portion (3c), and the second supporting portion (3d) form an integrated body.
US08783399B2 Saddle-riding type vehicle including multi-part shroud
In a saddle-riding type vehicle including a shroud, efficiency is achieved by disposing a vehicle component in a space shielded by the shroud, and the vehicle component is suitably protected from, for example, rainwater, while ventilation for the vehicle component is ensured. A regulator is disposed on a first side of the vehicle, at a position at which the regulator does not overlap a fuel tank as seen in a top plan view. The regulator is covered by a right shroud from above and from outside in the vehicle width direction. The right shroud has an opening formed therein at a portion where the regulator faces upwardly. The opening overlaps with, and is covered by from above by part of the right shroud that is different from the portion of the right shroud at which the opening is formed in a top plan view.
US08783397B2 Energy management system for a hybrid-electric vehicle
A system for optimizing electrical power management in a vehicle. The system includes a HVAC device and a thermal storage device, both configured to provide heating and cooling to an occupant compartment of the vehicle. The system further includes a controller connected to an electrical storage device and an electrical generating device. The controller receives electrical power generated by the electrical generating device and directs the electrical power to satisfy the vehicle's power requirements and/or stores the electrical power in at least one of the electrical storage device and the thermal storage device. Furthermore, the controller directs at least one of the HVAC device and the thermal storage device to provide heating and cooling to the occupant compartment of the vehicle, depending on the available storage of the thermal storage unit or occupant compartment demands.
US08783396B2 Hydrocarbon fueled-electric series hybrid propulsion systems
A hybrid propulsion system for powering vehicles such as class 8 DOT classified semi-tractor trucks under normal load conditions and at highway speeds comprises an internal combustion engine, an AC generator powered by the engine, DC battery packs, an AC/DC controller, and an AC electric motor driving the drive train of the vehicle. The AC generator and the DC battery packs provide input to the AC/DC controller, which, in turn, converts the DC input from the DC battery packs via a DC circuit to AC so that the output from the AC/DC controller to the electric motor is AC for powering the vehicle. The DC battery packs may comprise thin plate flooded lead acid cells and may be connected in series, in parallel or a combination thereof. Vehicles may be retrofitted to incorporate the propulsion system.
US08783394B1 Drive wheel suspension
A drive wheel and suspension for a vehicle for mounting on a steering post to provide both a steering capability and propulsion to the vehicle. The drive wheel and suspension provides a spring suspension for that wheel of the vehicle, as well as what is effectively vehicle body mounting of the propulsion system so as to minimize un-sprung weight and to provide a compact assembly to support a suitable aesthetic and protective fender over the drive wheel and suspension.
US08783393B2 Interface for a motor and drive assembly
The present invention provides an interface for aligning a power-producing device and a power-transferring device in a vehicle. The interface includes an axle tube housing and a flange integrally coupled at one end of the axle tube housing. The flange has a rear surface. The interface also includes a motor housing and a drive housing. The motor housing is configured to contain the power-producing device and the drive housing is configured to contain the power-transferring device. A plate is removably coupled to one end of the motor housing. The plate is coupled to the axle tube housing and has an outer diameter. The interface further includes a spindle coupled to the drive housing. The spindle has a front surface and an inner diameter. The outer diameter of the plate contacts the inner diameter of the spindle when the spindle is coupled to the flange.
US08783387B2 Cutter geometry for high ROP applications
A polycrystalline diamond compact (“PDC”)cutter includes a cylindrical body formed from a substrate material, an ultrahard layer disposed on the cylindrical body, and a cutting face perpendicular to an axis of the cylindrical body, wherein the cutting face includes two or more lobes and wherein the radius of at least one lobe is between 50 and 90 percent of the radius of the cylindrical body. A PDC cutter includes a substrate, and a cutting face perpendicular to an axis of the substrate, wherein the cross-section of the cutting face comprises multiple lobes, and the cross-section of the substrate is substantially circular.
US08783385B2 Rock bit having a mechanical seal with superior thermal performance
A drill tool includes a bit body, at least one bearing shaft extending from the bit body and a cone mounted for rotation on the bearing shaft. A mechanical seal is disposed between the bearing shaft and the cone in a seal gland. The mechanical seal includes a rigid seal ring having a dynamic sealing surface with the cone and another non-sealing surface exposed to an aperture in the seal gland. The mechanical seal further includes at least one cooling channel formed in the another non-sealing surface of the rigid seal ring, the cooling channel having an open end in fluid communication with the aperture in the seal gland.
US08783384B2 Fiber-containing diamond-impregnated cutting tools and methods of forming and using same
Fibers for diamond-impregnated cutting tools and their associated methods for manufacture and use are described. A matrix is formed that contains fibers made from carbon, glass, ceramic, polymer, and the like. The matrix is then sintered to form a cutting portion of a drill bit. The type and concentration of the fibers can be modified to control the tensile strength and the erosion rate of the matrix to optimize the cutting performance of the tools. Additionally, the fibers may be added to the cutting section to weaken the structure and allow higher modulus binders to be used for the cutting tools at a lower cost, allowing the amount of fibers to be tailored to retain the diamonds in the cutting portion for the desired amount. As the cutting portion erodes, the fibers may also increase the lubricity at the face of the cutting portion.