Document Document Title
US08802074B2 Polymers functionalized with ion-specific recognition elements
Polymeric compounds containing polymer backbones functionalized with ion-specific recognition elements and methods for the use of these compounds are described herein. The polymeric compounds may contain multiple types of ion-specific recognition elements depending on a specific application. The polymeric compounds can be used to remove ionic species from a solution, for example, in separations applications in which a single or multiple types of ionic species are desired to be removed from the solution.
US08802067B2 Comb polymers for the hair
Utilisation of (meth)acrylic comb copolymers with side chains of the hydroxy and alkoxy polyalkylene glycol type in which are present both ethylene oxide and propylene oxide links. These copolymers give a styling effect and an elimination of rinsing. The invention also relates to a cosmetic formulation containing such structures as well as a hair treatment process based on this formulation.
US08802066B2 Cosmetic composition comprising a particular zinc salt and an amino silicone
The present invention relates to a cosmetic composition comprising, in a cosmetically acceptable medium, at least one non-nitrogenous zinc salt and at least one amino silicone, in a weight ratio of the amount of amino silicone(s) to the amount of zinc element ranging from 0.01 to 5, preferably from 0.2 to 3. Another subject of the invention relates to a treatment process for keratin fibers, using such a composition, and the use of such a composition, preferably in the form of a leave-in care product, for conditioning keratin fibers and protecting the artificial color thereof against fading.
US08802061B2 Aqueous disinfectants and sterilants for skin and mucosal application
The present invention is drawn to disinfectant or sterilant compositions, which are human safe, e.g., food grade, food safe, or skin safe, etc. In one embodiment, an aqueous disinfectant or sterilant composition can comprise an aqueous vehicle, including water, from 0.001 wt % to 50 wt % of a peracid, and from 0.001 wt % to 25 wt % of a peroxide. Additionally, from 0.001 ppm to 50,000 ppm by weight of a transition metal or alloy thereof based on the aqueous vehicle content can also be present. The disinfectant composition can be used in the manufacture and formulation of products for human use or consumption including disinfectant mouthwashes, toothpastes, gums, ointments, and soaps.
US08802058B2 Pharmaceutical compositions and methods for administering the same
The present invention provides pharmaceutical compositions and methods for dispensing the same using an aerosol whereby the composition takes the form of foam. Additionally, the present invention provides a barrier system including a concentrate separated from a non-chlorine aerosol propellant wherein the concentrate includes a non-aqueous solvent, an emulsifying agent, a thickening agent, at least one medicament and optionally an aqueous solvent.
US08802057B2 Force-induced magnetization contrast for diagnosis and imaging
A method of detecting target molecules comprising; conjugating a first magnetic particle to a first ligand to form a first magnetic particle ligand conjugate; adding the conjugate to a sample containing target molecules to form a mixture comprising, the free conjugate and conjugate-target molecule binding pairs; measuring a first magnetization of the mixture; subjecting the mixture to a first force; measuring a second magnetization value of the mixture; subtracting the second magnetization value from the first magnetization value to calculate a first force-induced magnetization contrast; subjecting the mixture to a second force; measuring a third magnetization of the mixture; and subtracting the third magnetization value from the second magnetization value to calculate a second force-induced magnetization contrast.
US08802056B2 Method for testing and treating delayed food allergies
A method for testing, treating, and preventing delayed food allergies includes: receiving detailed symptom, medical, and dietary histories from a patient; formulating a combination of one or more food extracts at selected concentration for sublingual administration over a trial period; determining whether the patient's symptoms have improved, worsened, or had no change, in response to the administration of the combination; and altering the combination in response to whether the patient's symptoms have improved, worsened, or not changed, so as to induce immune system food tolerance.
US08802050B2 Method of manufacturing ceramic powder having perovskite structure and ceramic powder having perovskite structure manufactured using the same
There are provided a method of manufacturing a ceramic powder having a perovskite structure and a ceramic powder having a perovskite structure manufactured by the same. The method includes: mixing a compound of an element corresponding to site A in an ABO3 perovskite structure as well as a compound of an element corresponding to site B in the same structure, with supercritical water in a continuous mode to form seed crystals; and mixing the seed crystals in a batch mode to conduct grain growth thereof.
US08802049B2 Methods of producing metallic peroxide compositions for use in groundwater decontamination
An improved and efficient method of producing a composition containing a metal peroxide capable of enhancing microbial degradation of contaminants in soil and groundwater. The method includes reacting a metal oxide or metal hydroxide with hydrogen peroxide in a solution of water containing a reaction moderator, intercalation agent, and a gelling agent.
US08802047B2 Embedded nanoparticle films and method for their formation in selective areas on a surface
One-dimensional materials are prepared from an array of nanoparticles positioned in one or more recesses of a substrate, wherein the recesses and the positioned nanoparticles have a comparable diameter of the same order of magnitude such that one nanoparticle is positioned within each of the one or more recesses; wherein a depth of the one or more recesses is from 10 nm to 40 nm; and wherein a diameter of the one or more recesses is adjusted by conformal film deposition and is between one and two times the mean diameter of the nanoparticles, and wherein the nanoparticles have a mean diameter of from 1 nm to 50 nm, and wherein the nanoparticles are catalytic sites for the growth of the one-dimensional materials; wherein the one dimensional materials are non-aggregated and extend in a direction that is perpendicular or approximately perpendicular to the horizontal surface of the substrate.
US08802045B2 Mesoporous and nanoporous materials, and methods of synthesizing the same
A method for synthesizing a phosphonic acid functionalized mesoporous metal oxide material (e.g., silica, titania, alumina, preferably silica material) is provided. Further, a method of using the phosphonic acid functionalized mesoporous silica material as a solid acid catalyst in a pinicole-pinacolone rearrangement reaction, and a method of using a phosphonic acid functionalized mesoporous silica material as a solid acid catalyst in a transesterification reaction is provided. A method for preparing a mesoporous titania film for use in a dye sensitized solar cell is also provided.
US08802038B2 Multi-chambered tissue containment system for molecular and histology diagnostics
A container for storing a biological sample is disclosed. The container includes a first chamber having a sidewall extending between an open end and a closed end, defining a first chamber interior adapted to receive a sample holder therein. The container also includes a second chamber having a sidewall extending between an open end and a closed end, defining a second chamber interior adapted to subsequently receive the sample holder therein. The second chamber interior is in fluid isolation from the first chamber interior. A removable closure encloses at least one of the open end of the first chamber and the open end of the second chamber while the sample holder is disposed within one of the first chamber interior and the second chamber interior. A first fluid may be disposed within the first chamber interior, and a second different fluid may be disposed within the second chamber interior.
US08802037B2 Sample well strip
A multiple cuvette strip comprises a plurality of wells and a reversible interlocking device. The well strips can be reversibly interlocked to other well strips to form a sample holder system. One embodiment of a well strip comprises a flange and a slot to form a reversible interlocking device.
US08802029B2 Structures for controlling light interaction with microfluidic devices
Systems and methods for improved measurement of absorbance/transmission through fluidic systems are described. Specifically, in one set of embodiments, optical elements are fabricated on one side of a transparent fluidic device opposite a series of fluidic channels. The optical elements may guide incident light passing through the device such that most of the light is dispersed away from specific areas of the device, such as intervening portions between the fluidic channels. By decreasing the amount of light incident upon these intervening portions, the amount of noise in the detection signal can be decreased when using certain optical detection systems.
US08802026B2 Immunoassay assembly and methods of use
The present invention relates to an improved system for efficiently and accurately performing immunoassays, such as ELISAs. The invention provides an immunoassay assembly which includes a flow-through unit and an aspiration pump. The immunoassay flow-through unit includes an outer seal; at least one bed support; an inner seal; and a packed non-porous bed. The unit is releasably attached to an aspiration pump which enables the controlled flow rate of liquid passing through the packed bed of the flow-through unit. The invention also provides a method of using the immunoassay assembly to identify analytical targets of interest.
US08802025B2 Reagent kit for sample analysis and sample analysis method
The present invention provides a reagent kit for analyzing a sample comprising a first reagent containing a cationic surfactant, a nonionic surfactant and an aromatic carboxylic acid and a second reagent containing a fluorescent dye capable of staining nucleic acid, and a method for analyzing a sample using the kit.
US08802024B2 Biochip and manufacturing method thereof
A method for manufacturing a biochip is provided. First, a first self-assembled monolayer is coated on a substrate. Next, a plurality of first biomedical molecular dots are formed on the first self-assembled monolayer by micro-titration technique. After the bonding reaction between the first biomedical molecular point and the first self-assembled monolayer, a second self-assembled monolayer is deposited on the surface of the first self-assembled monolayer by evaporation. The second self-assembled monolayer attached on the plurality of first biomedical molecular dots and the first self-assembled monolayer not bonded to the substrate are removed, so that the first biomedical molecular dots immobilized on the first self-assembled monolayer are exposed. Finally, a second biomedical molecular layer is immobilized on the exposed portions of the first biomedical molecular dots.
US08802022B2 Cold plasma sterilization device
A cold plasma device for large area decontamination that can function as a scrub brush to sterilize surfaces and areas that are otherwise difficult, time consuming and/or may cause exposure hazards under convention sterilization methods.
US08802018B2 Apparatus and method for radiation processing of fluent food products
An apparatus, system, and method of irradiating fluent food products. The present invention utilizes a transmissive wall having a convex surface. A source of radiation is positioned on a side of the transmissive wall that is opposite the convex surface so that when the radiation source is emitting radiation energy, the radiation energy passes through the transmissive wall, thereby irradiating fluent food product that is flowing in contact with the convex surface.
US08802014B2 Ga-68 radionuclide generator structure
The invention is related a novel structure for Ga-68 radionuclide generator. It allows two washing solutions to pass through two Ge-68 absorbents to wash out different chemical forms of Ga-68 nuclide. The invention comprises the first method that will withdraw hydrochloric acid solution from the washing bottle and pass it through inorganic resin absorbing column to produce the radioisotope solution of Ga-68 gallium chloride, and the second method that will allow the radioisotope solution of Ga-68 gallium citrate to pass the organic resin absorbing column and then the silica-gel cartridge, and be washed by the hydrochloric acid solution to obtain the radioisotope solution of Ga-68 gallium chloride.
US08802010B2 Ion chromatography systems with flow-delay eluent recycle
A chromatographic method including chromatographically separating sample ionic species in an eluent stream, detecting the separated sample ionic species, catalytically combining hydrogen and oxygen gases or catalytically decomposing hydrogen peroxide in a catalytic gas elimination chamber, and recycling the effluent stream from the chamber to the chromatography separation column. The residence time between the detector and the chamber is at least about one minute. Also, flowing the recycle sequentially through two detector effluent flow channels of an electrolytic membrane suppressor. Also, applying heat or UV energy between the detector and the chamber. Also, detecting bubbles after the chamber. Also, a Platinum group metal catalyst and ion exchange medium in the chamber. Apparatus for performing the methods.
US08802008B2 Dispensing nozzle for automatic analyzer, and automatic analyzer including same
An automatic analyzer for analyzing samples, such as urine and blood, is adapted so that analysis measured values are not affected by carry over by a repeatedly used dispensing nozzle. Coating the surface of the dispensing nozzle with a chemisorbed polyethylene glycol derivative forms a molecular layer that inhibits the adsorption of biopolymers, to reduce carry over by the dispensing nozzle.
US08802007B2 Ultraviolet irradiation system and water quality monitoring instrument
A part of pre-treated water flowing into an ultraviolet irradiation tank is guided to a fluorometer. The fluorometer scans an excitation spectrum peak wavelength of the pre-treated water at a fluorescence wavelength fixed to 425 nm to obtain an excitation spectrum, and continuously measures an excitation peak wavelength thereof. Based on the analysis result obtained by the fluorometer, an ultraviolet irradiation device calculates an ultraviolet irradiation level target value for optimizing an ultraviolet irradiation level, and thus controls the irradiation level of ultraviolet rays emitted therefrom.
US08802006B2 Method and system for sterilizing an analyte sensor
In one aspect, there is provided assembling an analyte sensor with an analyte sensor insertion device, packaging the assembled analyte sensor and sensor insertion device in a substantially airtight seal, and irradiating the packaged assembled analyte sensor and sensor insertion device at a predetermined dose using one or more electron beam accelerators.
US08802002B2 Dimensionally stable bonded nonwoven fibrous webs
A method for making a bonded nonwoven fibrous web comprising extruding melt blown fibers of a polymeric material, collecting the melt blown fibers as an initial nonwoven fibrous web, annealing the initial nonwoven fibrous web with a controlled heating and cooling operation, and collecting the dimensionally stable bonded nonwoven fibrous web is described. The bonded nonwoven fibrous web shrinkage is typically less than 4 percent relative to the initial nonwoven fibrous web.
US08802000B2 Microplates with ultra-thin walls by two-stage forming
A multi-well plate with wells having ultra-thin walls and yet with sufficient structural rigidity to allow reliable use of the plate in automated instrumentation is formed by first forming a plate blank by injection molding, the blank being of a thickness that provides the desired rigidity, and then subjecting the blank to vacuum forming to stretch designated areas in the blank to form wells or to extend wells already formed, the stretching resulting in a reduction in thickness of the molded resin at the walls of the wells only.
US08801991B2 Heat-seal failure prevention method and article
A co-injected molded multi-layer article has inner and outer layers, an interior layer contained within the inner and outer layers and a surface portion to which a closure or other component may be heat-sealed. The article is molded by co-injecting the inner, outer and interior layer materials into a mold cavity of a mold. The interior layer material is caused to flow along a steam line offset from the zero velocity gradient of the combined material flow and biased toward a material flow for forming an outer wall of the multi-layer article. The resultant molded multi-layer article contains an interior layer located in a heat sealable region that avoids a breach or failure during a heat seal operation to seal an opening of the molded article.
US08801990B2 Method for building three-dimensional models in extrusion-based additive manufacturing systems using core-shell semi-crystalline consumable filaments
A consumable filament for use in an extrusion-based additive manufacturing system, where the consumable filament comprises a first portion of a first semi-crystalline polymeric material, and a second portion of a second semi-crystalline polymeric material, and where the second semi-crystalline polymeric material has a crystallization temperature that is greater than a crystallization temperature of the first semi-crystalline polymeric material.
US08801989B2 Manufacturing method for rubber band
The present invention relates to a manufacturing method for a rubber band, comprising preparing a production raw material: mixing and stirring by weight percent 50%-80% vinyl-terminated polydimethylmethylvinylsiloxane, 19%-40% silica and 1%-10% hydroxy-terminated polydimethylsiloxane into a paste ready for use; feeding the aforementioned production raw material into forming molds to produce rough rubber bands; soaking the rough rubber bands in a surface treatment solution for a certain time period, wherein the surface treatment solution comprises by weight percent 40%-50% methyl vinyl silicone rubber, 30%-35% deodorized kerosene, 7%-10% oxygen-containing silicon oil and 10%-20% silicon powder; taking the soaked rough rubber bands out of the solution after soaking and baking them at a high temperature of 200-250° C. A rubber band made according to the above-described method has good elasticity, a non-slip property, no cracks after stretching, is not easy to be broken, durable, non-toxic, environmentally friendly and nondeformable for multiple times of use.
US08801988B2 Solution casting method for preventing skinning
A dope is cast from a discharge opening of a casting die onto a casting drum. A casting bead is the dope between the discharge opening and the casting drum. A nozzle and a guide path are provided downstream from the discharge opening with respect to a moving direction (direction X) of the casting drum. The guide path is formed on a tapered surface of the casting die. The nozzle supplies an anticoagulant to the guide path. The anticoagulant is guided to a bottom end of the guide path. Upon reaching the bottom end, the anticoagulant forms a pool in the close vicinity of an end E of the discharge opening. The anticoagulant is securely supplied to a side edge portion of the casting bead through the pool.
US08801986B2 Method of manufacturing molded object and molded object
Disclosed is a method of manufacturing a molded object. The method includes: supplying a first liquid material to a first region out of a molding enabling region where a powder material is arranged and curing the powder material of the first region using a lamination molding technology to form a first insoluble part insoluble in a solvent; supplying a second liquid material different from the first liquid material to the powder material of a second region, which is provided so as to be surrounded by the first region, out of the molding enabling region and curing the powder material of the second region using the lamination molding technology to form a second soluble part soluble in the solvent; and dissolving the second part in the solvent.
US08801982B2 Method to start-up a process to make expandable vinyl aromatic polymers
A method for producing expandable pellets can include introducing a vinyl aromatic polymer and an expandable agent to a pelletizer (L). The pelletizer (L) can have a die plate having a holes of large diameter. During the start-up of the production of the expandable pellets, pellets can be produced in the pelletizer (L). When the polymer flow rate is in the operating range of the pelletizer (S), the introduction of the vinyl aromatic polymer and the expandable agent can be switched from the pelletizer (L) to the pelletizer (S). The pelletizer (S) can be operated at conditions effective to produce the expandable pellets. The pelletizer (S) can have a die plate having holes of small diameter. The expandable pellets can be recovered from the pelletizer (S), and the pellets can be recovered from the pelletizer (L).
US08801978B2 Biaxial-optical polynorbornene-based film and method of manufacturing the same, integrated optical compensation polarizer having the film and method of manufacturing the polarizer, and liquid crystal display panel containing the film and/or polarizer
Disclosed is a method of manufacturing a biaxial polynorbornene-film having a compensation film which has good light transmittance and a uniform in-plane retardation value and can function as both a negative C-plate and an A-plate.
US08801974B2 Cobalt oxide, composite of cobalt oxide, and method for making the same
A method for making a composite of cobalt oxide is disclosed. An aluminum nitrate solution is provided. Lithium cobalt oxide particles are introduced into the aluminum nitrate solution. The lithium cobalt oxide particles are mixed with the aluminum nitrate solution to form a mixture. A phosphate solution is added into the mixture to react with the aluminum nitrate solution and form an aluminum phosphate layer on surfaces of the lithium cobalt oxide particles. The lithium cobalt oxide particles with the aluminum phosphate layer formed on the surfaces thereof are heat treated to form a lithium cobalt oxide composite. The lithium cobalt oxide composite is electrochemical lithium-deintercalated at a voltage of Vx, wherein 4.5V
US08801970B2 Europium- and strontium-based phosphor
A nitride phosphor contains europium as an activating element and strontium, or strontium and calcium, as divalent metal elements. The phosphor further includes aluminum and silicon. Of the europium in the phosphor, at least 85% is in the form of Eu2+. The phosphor has a peak emission wavelength of from 590 nm to 650 nm. A phosphorescent body that includes the phosphor can be suitable for converting a wavelength of at least a portion of light emitted from an excitation light source in a light-emitting device.
US08801968B2 Surface-modified conversion phosphors
The invention relates to surface-modified phosphor particles based on luminescent particles which comprise at least one luminescent compound, where (Ca,Sr,Ba)2SiO4 and other silicates having one or more activator ions, such as Eu, Ce and Mn, are excluded as luminescent compounds, and where at least one inorganic layer comprising oxides/hydroxides of Si, Al, Zr, Zn, Ti and/or mixtures thereof and an organic coating of organosilanes or polyorganosiloxanes (silicones) and/or mixtures thereof are applied to the luminescent particles, and to a production process.
US08801966B2 Liquid crystals comprising cyclopentane groups
Provided are liquid crystal compounds and mixtures incorporating the same. The liquid crystal compounds of the invention generally comprise a cyclopentane group and at least two other rings. In one embodiment, the liquid crystal compounds of the invention comprise a cyclopentane group and at least two other rings, one of which is a fused ring system.
US08801965B2 Liquid crystal medium composition and liquid crystal display panel manufactured with same
The present invention provides a liquid crystal medium composition and a liquid crystal display panel manufactured with same. The liquid crystal medium composition includes a negative type liquid crystal material, a polymerizable monomer, a sensitizer, and stabilizer. The sensitizer is an organometallic complex that has an amount of 0.01%-5% of total mass of the liquid crystal composition and has a strong absorption of ultraviolet light having a wavelength of 300-450 nm. The sensitizer converts the primary wavelength range of ultraviolet light for reaction of the polymerizable monomer from 200-300 nm to 300-450 nm, staying away from the absorption band of the liquid crystal material and reducing damages caused on the liquid crystal material and the alignment material of polyimide, thereby heightening reaction efficiency and homogeneity of the polymerizable monomer and the quality and lifespan of the liquid crystal display panel.
US08801963B2 Synthesis of stannane and deuterostannane
The present invention relates to a process for the preparation of stannane and deuterostannane by reacting a stannic halide with lithium aluminum hydride or aluminum deuteride respectively in a polydentate solvent.
US08801961B2 Electrocatalyst support and catalyst supported thereon
In one embodiment of the present disclosure an electrocatalyst support for a fuel cell is provided which includes a doped titania metal oxide. The dopant includes a valve metal. The doped titania metal oxide has a BET surface area of greater than 20 m2/g.
US08801959B1 Stable, concentratable silicon wafer polishing composition and related methods
A stable, concentratable silicon wafer polishing composition for polishing silicon wafers is provided, containing: water; an abrasive; a cation according to formula (I); piperazine or a piperazine derivative according to formula (II); and, optionally, a pH adjusting agent; wherein the polishing composition exhibits a silicon removal rate of at least 300 nm/min. Also provided are methods of making and using the stabilized, concentratable chemical mechanical polishing composition.
US08801952B1 Conformal oxide dry etch
A method of etching silicon oxide from a trench is described which allows more homogeneous etch rates up and down the sides of the trench. One disclosed method includes a sequential introduction of (1) a hydrogen-containing precursor and then (2) a fluorine-containing precursor into a substrate processing region. The temperature of the substrate is low during each of the two steps in order to allow the reaction to proceed and form solid residue by-product. A second disclosed method reverses the order of steps (1) and (2) but still forms solid residue by-product. The solid residue by-product is removed by raising the temperature in a subsequent sublimation step regardless of the order of the two steps.
US08801951B2 Plasma processing method
In a plasma processing method for conducting etching on an object to be processed by generating plasma from depositional gas introduced into a processing chamber and exposing the object to be processed to the plasma in a state in which radio frequency power is applied, the object to be processed is etched under etching conditions that a deposit film on an inner wall of the processing chamber becomes amorphous by repeating a first period during which the object to be processed is exposed to plasma and a second period during which the object to be processed is exposed to plasma and an etching rate is lower as compared with the first period. Consequently, particles due to increase in the number of processed sheets of the object to be processed can be suppressed.
US08801950B2 Reduction of a process volume of a processing chamber using a nested dynamic inert volume
A substrate processing chamber includes a lift actuator that moves a pedestal between a substrate loading position and a substrate processing position. An adjustable seal defines an expandable sealed volume between a bottom surface of the pedestal and a bottom surface of the substrate processing chamber and is moveable between the substrate loading position and the substrate processing position. When the pedestal is in the substrate processing position, the pedestal and the adjustable seal define a first inert volume and a first process volume. When the pedestal is in the substrate loading position, the pedestal and the adjustable seal define a second inert volume and a second process volume. The second inert volume is less than the first inert volume and the second process volume is greater than the first process volume.
US08801946B2 Method for making grating
A method for making grating is provided. The method includes following steps. A substrate is provided. A mask layer is located on the substrate. The mask layer is patterned, and a number of bar-shaped protruding structures are formed on a surface of the mask layer, a slot is defined between each of two adjacent protruding structures of the number of protruding structures to expose a portion of the substrate. The protruding structures are etched so that each of two adjacent protruding structures begin to slant face to face until they are contacting each other. The exposed portion of the substrate is etched through the slot. The mask layer is removed.
US08801945B2 Write element, thermally assisted magnetic head slider, head gimbal assembly, hard disk drive with the same, and manufacturing method thereof
A write element for a thermally assisted magnetic head slider includes an air bearing surface facing to a magnetic recording medium; a first magnetic pole, a second magnetic pole, and coils sandwiched between the first and the second magnetic poles; a waveguide for guiding light generated by a light source module mounted on a substrate; and a plasmon unit provided around the first magnetic pole and the waveguide, which has a near-field light generating surface for propagating near-field light to the air bearing surface. The near-field light generating surface of the plasmon unit is apart from the air bearing surface with a first predetermined distance to form a first recess, and the first recess is filled in with a protective layer. The thermally assisted magnetic head slider can prevent the plasmon unit from protruding over the air bearing surface, thereby improving the performance of thermally assisted magnetic head.
US08801940B2 Feedwells
The invention provides several improvements in feedwells, one of which being a feedwell comprising a mixing zone for dissipating the kinetic energy of a fluid comprising pulp, a settling zone for promoting flocculation of the pulp and at least one inclined deflecting element for at least partially separating the mixing zone from the settling zone. Other improvements include a shelf at least partially defining an inclined path for removing material from the shelf into a feedwell chamber; at least two outlets arranged in a substantially concentric relationship with respect to each other; a portion of a second conduit varies in its cross-sectional size and/or shape so as to connect a feed inlet to a first conduit; and a partition for partially separating an outer mixing zone and an inner settling zone.
US08801934B2 Osmotically-assisted desalination method and system
Systems and methods for osmotically assisted desalination include using a pressurized concentrate from a pressure desalination process to pressurize a feed to the desalination process. The depressurized concentrate thereby produced is used as a draw solution for a pressure-retarded osmosis process. The pressure-retarded osmosis unit produces a pressurized draw solution stream that is used to pressurize another feed to the desalination process. In one example, the feed to the pressure-retarded osmosis process is impaired water.
US08801931B2 Hybrid aerobic and anaerobic wastewater and sludge treatment systems and methods
A hybrid method and system of treating wastewater with reduced energy usage is disclosed. The treatment system has a sorption system, an anaerobic digester that digests or converts at least a portion of the solids or sludge from the sorption system, and an aerobic treatment tank that partially reduces oxygen demand of a portion of the sludge from the sorption tank.
US08801930B2 Method and apparatus of solid wastes automatic collection ductwork evacuation and comprehensive utilization
The method and apparatus for the solid wastes automatic collection pipeline transportation and comprehensive utilization contemplated to reach a easily dropping, automatically collecting, discharging, transporting of all kinds of the solid wastes, getting the plastic package free renewable waste for recycle. The disclosed method and apparatus comprise going toward and near the multiple waste fluidizing collectors set indoor and outdoor, automatically opening the lid of the collector, putting the wastes into the specified containers according to the requirement of the waste recycle program, respectively fluidizing all kinds of the solid wastes into flowable particle and jam to satisfy the pipeline transportation, the multiple waste fluidizing collector in the invention is designed to receive, deposit the wastes and change the solid waste from solid into liquid, that leads to the solid waste automatic collection, transportation and getting the plastic package free, renewable uniform waste for recycle. It is expected to replace currently manual waste collection, waste disposal and management.
US08801926B2 Sink colander and storage assembly
A colander assembly having a base member and a basket device removeably connectable to the base member. The basket device includes a bottom wall, a front wall, a rear wall, and first and second sidewalls forming a basket or storage area, wherein the bottom wall and first and second sidewalls are positionable between a storage position and an extended or use position.
US08801925B2 Filter alignment device
A removable device that ensures that the port of a filter cartridge is liquid tightly sealed to the port of the head of a housing even when there is insufficient room beneath the bowl to allow one to physically secure the cartridge port to the head port before securing the head and bowl together. The invention uses one or more removably attached alignment devices to center the cartridge in the bowl and maintain it at a height sufficient to ensure that the two ports are aligned and liquid tightly sealed to each other when the bowl and head are mated together.
US08801923B2 Wastewater treatment apparatus
A wastewater treatment apparatus that obtains treated water by adding a flocculant and magnetic powder to wastewater accumulated in a tank to thereby generate flocculated magnetic flocs, and recovering the magnetic flocs by means of a magnetic force to thereby remove the magnetic flocs from the wastewater, comprising: a magnetic flocs treatment device which treats the recovered magnetic flocs and which comprises a high pressure pump and a magnetic separation portion; wherein the magnetic separation portion has a structure in which fluid piping is arranged at a magnetic field generating portion, and magnetic powder in the magnetic flocs is recovered by using the high pressure pump to pump the recovered magnetic flocs to the fluid piping of the magnetic separation portion, and causing the magnetic powder in the magnetic flocs to attach to the fluid piping by means of a magnetic force of the magnetic field generating portion.
US08801922B2 Dialysis system
A dialysis system includes a filtration system capable of filtering a water stream, a water purification system capable of purifying said water stream in a non-batch process, a mixing system capable of producing a stream of dialysate from mixing one or more dialysate components with the water stream in a non-batch process, and a dialyzer system. The dialyzer may be a microfluidic dialyzer capable of being fluidly coupled to the stream of dialysate and a blood stream.
US08801921B2 Method of produced water treatment, method of water reuse, and systems for these methods
A method of produced water treatment in an in-situ recovery method of producing bitumen from oil sand, the method has the steps of: separating bitumen from bitumen-mixed fluid so as to leave produced water, the bitumen-mixed fluid having been recovered from the oil sand wells; and filtering the produced water via a microfiltration membrane made of polytetrafluoroethylene.
US08801919B2 Fully synthetic jet fuel
The invention provides a fully synthetic aviation fuel or aviation fuel component having: a total naphthenic content of more than 30 mass %, a mass ratio of naphthenic to iso-paraffinic hydrocarbon species of more than 1 and less than 15, a density (at 15° C.) of greater than 0.775 g·cm-3, but less than 0.850 g·cm-3, an aromatic hydrocarbon content of greater than 8 mass %, but less than 20 mass %, a freezing point of less than −47° C., a lubricity BOCLE WSD value of less than 0.85 mm. The invention further provides for the preparation of a fully synthetic coal-derived aviation fuel or aviation fuel component by blending a LFTF and a tar derived blend component. The invention extends to a method of producing a coal-derived, fully synthetic aviation fuel or aviation fuel component from coal gasifier tar and an LTLF derived fraction.
US08801918B2 Point of care heparin determination system
Methods and devices for point of care determination of heparin concentration in blood are described. Cartridges including protamine ion sensitive electrodes (ISEs) and reference electrodes and systems for automatically determining heparin concentration in the cartridges are provided. Some systems add blood to a protamine bolus sufficient to bind all heparin, leaving excess protamine. The excess protamine concentration can be determined by measuring the initial slope of the electrode potential rate of change, and comparing the slope to known protamine concentration slope values In some cartridges, an oscillating pressure source moves the blood-protamine mixture back and forth across the protamine ISE. Some systems also use a second blood sample having the heparin removed or degraded to create a blank reference sample. Protamine ISEs can include polyurethane polymer, DNNS ionophore, and NPOE plasticizer. The polyurethane may include hard segments and soft segments, where both hard and soft segments may include cyclic and straight chain aliphatic moieties having essentially no ester or ether groups. Some hard segments may include methylene diphenyl groups. Some reference electrodes have the same polymer, plasticizer, and ionophore as the measurement electrode, but with a different concentration of ionophore.
US08801915B2 Method for synthesizing ammonia
In the ammonia synthesis method, an anode and a cathode are arranged in an electrolyte phase at a predetermined interval; water (H2O) is supplied to an anode zone and light is radiated so that water is decomposed by a photoabsorption reaction to generate protons (H+), electrons (e−), and an oxygen gas (O2); a nitrogen gas (N2 ) is supplied to a cathode zone, and the electrons (e−) generated in the anode zone are allowed to transfer to the cathode zone through a lead, thereby generating N3− in the cathode zone; and ammonia (NH3 ) is synthesized through the reaction between the protons (H+) that have moved toward the cathode zone from the anode zone in the electrolyte phase and N3−.
US08801914B2 Method of making wear-resistant printed wiring member
A method for making a printed wiring member including wire-bondable contact pads and wear-resistant connector pads, the method includes a) providing a blank printed wiring member comprising a copper foil laminated to a dielectric substrate; b) masking the blank printed wiring member to protect regions of the copper foil; c) removing copper in unprotected regions of the blank printed wiring member to form a patterned printed wiring member including contact pads and connector pads; d) depositing a nickel coating on the patterned printed wiring member; e) electrolytically depositing a hard gold layer on the nickel coating; and f) depositing palladium on a surface of the hard gold layer to improve bondability of the contact pads while preserving wear resistance of the connector pads.
US08801910B2 Method and apparatus for desalination and purification
A liquid electrolyte can be desalinated and purified using a system that includes a first electrode and a configuration selected from (a) a second electrode and at least one distinct ion-selective boundary and (b) a second electrode that also serves as the ion-selective boundary. The ion-selective boundary is contained in the liquid conduit adjacent to a porous medium that defines pore channels filled with the liquid and that have a surface charge, and the charge of the ion-selective boundary and the surface charge of the pore channels share the same sign. A liquid including at least one charged species flows through the pore channels, forming a thin diffuse electrochemical double layer at an interface of the liquid and the charged surface of the pore channels. A voltage differential is applied between the electrodes across the porous medium to draw ions in the liquid to the electrodes to produce brine at the electrodes and to create a shock in the dissolved-ion concentration in the bulk volume of the liquid within the pore channels, wherein a depleted zone with a substantially reduced concentration of dissolved ions forms in the liquid bulk volume between the shock and the ion-selective boundary.
US08801909B2 Polymetal hydroxychloride processes and compositions: enhanced efficacy antiperspirant salt compositions
The invention describes processes for the production of basic aluminum compounds, including aluminum chlorohydrate, basic zirconium compounds, and basic aluminum zirconium compounds. The process produces products of a wide range of basicities. The products formed by the present invention are comprised of low molecular weight species characteristic of enhanced efficacy antiperspirant salt compositions. The products of this process are suitable for use as water purification agents, as binders in catalyst applications, and in antiperspirant applications. In addition, the invention is directed to the products made by the disclosed process.
US08801908B2 Composite insulating layer and manufacturing method thereof
A composite insulating layer and a manufacturing method thereof. The composite insulating layer includes a socket substrate, a connection layer disposed on the socket substrate, a conductive metal layer disposed on the connection layer, an insulating metal layer disposed on the conductive metal layer, an insulating ceramic layer disposed on the insulating metal layer, and a electrodeposition layer disposed on the insulating ceramic layer. The composite insulating layer of the present invention can avoid the electromagnetic interference generated from the pins of the CPU and increase the stability of the CPU.
US08801902B1 Water reduction by modulating vacuum
A system and a method for dewatering an acoustical tile basemat comprising a continuously traveling wire, a device for depositing a dilute water slurry of solids including fiber and binder on the wire, a vacuum box below the wire for separating water from the solids deposited on the wire to form a basemat, a vacuum source, and a valve for cyclically connecting the vacuum source to the vacuum box at a cyclic rate that limits vacuum exposure to a length of the basemat newly arriving at the vacuum box to less than four inches per cycle.
US08801895B2 Semiconductor manufacturing equipment and manufacturing method of the same
A semiconductor manufacturing equipment includes a first chamber that has a first connection hole, a second chamber that has a second connection hole connected to the first connection hole of the first chamber, an O-ring that is provided between the first chamber and the second chamber so as to surround the first connection hole and the second connection hole, and a cover portion that covers a space between the first chamber and the second chamber.
US08801894B2 Sub-10 NM line features via rapid graphoepitaxial self-assembly of amphiphilic monolayers
Methods for fabricating sub-lithographic, nanoscale microchannels utilizing an aqueous emulsion of an amphiphilic agent and a water-soluble, hydrogel-forming polymer, and films and devices formed from these methods are provided.
US08801892B2 Uniform etch system
Etching a layer over a substrate is provided. The substrate is placed in a plasma processing chamber. A first gas is provided to an inner zone within the plasma processing chamber. A second gas is provided to the outer zone within the plasma processing chamber, where the outer zone surrounds the inner zone and the first gas is different than the second gas. Plasmas are simultaneously generated from the first gas and second gas. The layer is etched, where the layer is etched by the plasmas from the first gas and second gas.
US08801891B2 Substrate warpage removal apparatus and substrate processing apparatus
There is provided a substrate warpage removal apparatus and method which can remove warpage of a substrate which has a patterned surface having a film with a pattern, and a non-patterned surface having a film without a pattern. The substrate warpage removal apparatus includes: a holding plate configured to hold a substrate; a processing liquid supply pipe, provided on the side of the non-patterned surface of the substrate, configured to supply an etching liquid to the surface to remove a surface film; and a first laser displacement meter and a second laser displacement meter configured to detect warpage of the substrate. When the controller, based on signals from the first laser displacement meter and the second laser displacement meter, determines that warpage of the substrate has been eliminated, the controller stops the supply of an etching liquid from the processing liquid supply pipe.
US08801889B2 Water jet shaping of displays and structures for electronic devices
Structures such as display structures and other electronic device structures may be shaped using water jet cutting equipment. The water jet cutting equipment may be used to produce a water jet. The water jet may be used to cut layer of material such as display layers and other structures. Water jet cutting may form edge cuts, cuts for openings in the structures, chamfers, and other features. Multiple layers may be simultaneously cut using water jet cutting. Positioning equipment may be used to control the position of a workpiece relative to a water jet nozzle. The positioning equipment may be controlled using a control unit. During water jet cutting operations, the workpiece may be trimmed, openings may be formed, and features such as chamfers may be created. A workpiece may include a cover glass, a color filter array, a thin-film transistor layer, and other display layers and device structures.
US08801888B2 Process for producing decorative sheet, decorative sheet, and decorative molded article obtained using same
The present invention relates to a production process for a decorative sheet comprising a step in which a primer layer is formed on a releasing film having a smooth surface, a step in which a design layer is formed on the above primer layer, a step in which the primer layer and the design layer are transferred on a base material, a step in which the releasing film on the base material is peeled off, a step in which an ionizing radiation curable resin composition is laminated on the primer layer formed on the base material and a step in which the above ionizing radiation curable resin composition is cross-linked and cured to form a surface protective layer.Capable of being provided is a decorative sheet of a high gloss which keeps a surface smoothness and a gloss and maintains a design feeling even after three-dimensional molding such as insert molding, injection molding simultaneous decoration and the like and which is less liable to generate dents and wounds on a surface by wrapping therein foreign matters even when winding the decorative sheet on a roll and less liable to produce scratches and wrinkles by bringing a surface and a rear face of the decorative sheet into close contact with each other.
US08801874B2 Steel plate and steel pipe for line pipes
A steel plate for line pipes containing, in terms of % by weight, C: 0.02 to 0.06%, Si: 0.5% or less, Mn: 0.8 to 1.6%, P: 0.008% or less, S: 0.0008% or less, Al: 0.08% or less, Nb: 0.005 to 0.035%, Ti: 0.005 to 0.025%, and Ca: 0.0005 to 0.0035%, and optionally contains one or more of Cu: 0.5% or less, Ni: 1% or less, Cr: 0.5% or less, Mo: 0.5% or less and V: 0.1% or less, and has a CP value of 0.95 or less represented by CP=4.46C(%)+2.37Mn(%)/6+{1.18Cr(%)+1.95Mo(%)+1.74V(%)}/5+{1.74Cu(%)+1.7Ni(%)}/15+22.36P(%), and a Ceq value of 0.30 or more represented by Ceq=C(%)+Mn(%)/6+{Cr(%)+Mo(%)+V(%)}/5 +{Cu(%)+Ni(%)}/15.
US08801873B2 Carburized steel part
The present invention provides a carburized steel part obtained by subjecting a base material to a cutting operation and a carburizing operation, in which the base material includes chemical components of: C: greater than 0.3 but less than or equal to 0.6% by mass; Si: 0.01 to 1.5% by mass; Mn: 0.3 to 2.0% by mass; P: 0.0001 to 0.02% by mass; S: 0.001 to 0.15% by mass; N: 0.001 to 0.03% by mass; Al: greater than 0.06 but less than or equal to 0.3% by mass; and, O: 0.0001 to 0.005% by mass, with a balance including iron and inevitable impurities, and in which the carburized steel part has a hardness of HV550 to HV800 in a surface layer portion, and a hardness of HV400 to HV550 in a core portion.
US08801863B2 Dishwasher with rack corner spray system
A dishwasher includes a rack provided with interior and exterior corner nozzles to direct washing fluid onto interior and exterior surface portions of an object placed in a corner of the rack.
US08801858B2 Non-wear shutter apparatus for a vapor deposition apparatus
An apparatus and associated method for vapor deposition of a sublimated source material as a thin film on a photovoltaic (PV) module substrate includes a deposition head wherein a source material is sublimated. A distribution manifold is provided with a plurality of passages defined therethrough for passage of the sublimated source material to the substrate. A shutter plate is disposed above the distribution manifold and includes a plurality of passages therethrough that align with the passages in the distribution manifold in a first position of the shutter plate. The shutter plate is movable to a second position wherein the shutter plate blocks the passages in the distribution manifold to flow of sublimated material therethrough. A lifting mechanism is configured between the shutter plate and the distribution manifold to lift and move the shutter plate between the first and second positions without sliding the shutter plate on the distribution manifold.
US08801855B2 Method for processing silicon powder to obtain silicon crystals
Embodiments of the present invention relate to a process for obtaining silicon crystals from silicon. The method includes contacting silicon powder with a solvent metal to provide a mixture containing silicon, melting the silicon under submersion to provide a first molten liquid, contacting the first molten liquid with a first gas to provide dross and a second molten liquid, separating the dross and the second molten liquid, cooling the second molten liquid to form first silicon crystals and a first mother liquid and separating the first silicon crystals and the first mother liquid.
US08801854B2 Method for evaluating metal contamination of silicon single crystal
A method for evaluating metal contamination of a silicon single crystal grown by the Czochralski method using a pulling apparatus in which a voltage can be applied between a crystal suspending member and a crucible comprises the steps of: setting the crystal suspending member as a negative electrode while setting the crucible as a positive electrode in a process for growing a non-convertible portion of the silicon single crystal; applying the voltage; collecting a sample from the non-convertible portion grown in association with the voltage application; and evaluating the metal contamination of the sample by an analysis in which Surface Photo Voltage method is adopted. In a process for growing an end-product convertible portion of the silicon single crystal, the voltage is applied such that the crystal suspending member is set as the positive electrode while the crucible is set as the negative electrode, or the voltage is not applied.
US08801850B2 Coating composition, and its production, heat exchanger and air conditioner
A coating composition including ultrafine silica particles having an average particle diameter of 15 nm or less and fluororesin particles, in which ultrafine silica particle content is 0.1 to 5 mass %, and the mass ratio of the ultrafine silica particles to the fluororesin particles is 70:30 to 95:5. According to the coating composition, there is provided a coating film which makes it possible to readily coat the surfaces of various articles without impairing the color tone and the texture and which is excellent in antisoiling performance and durability.
US08801848B2 Adhesive
Disclosed is an adhesive that may include two or more starches or starch derivatives with different molecular weights. In many embodiments, the adhesive includes (1) unmodified or slightly thinned starch, (2) maltodextrin or syrup solid, and (3) a hydroxypropyl starch. In most embodiments, the adhesive includes a plasticizer. The adhesive may be prepared by blending the starch and starch derivatives, and cooking the blended slurry, preferably under acidic conditions. The adhesive may be employed for various purposes including as an adhesive for a multi-wall bag.
US08801847B2 Microcrystalline cellulose compositions
Ultra-fine microcrystalline cellulose compositions are disclosed which comprise co-attrited microcrystalline cellulose and a hydrocolloid. The compositions have a mean particle size of less than 10 microns. The compositions are prepared by subjecting a high solids mixture of microcrystalline cellulose and a hydrocolloid to high shear forces in the presence of an anti slip agent preferably an aqueous solution of an inorganic salt. The compositions are especially useful in food, pharmaceutical and cosmetic and industrial applications.
US08801841B1 Injection lance assembly
The system and method for preventing air leakage from the process side to the bearing side of a mill. The system includes a labyrinth seal ring comprising a series of knives defining first and second labyrinth paths from an air inlet to the process side and the bearing side of the system, respectively. The differences in the two paths such as provided by the number of knives used in each path creates a differential pressure drop which biases air from the air inlet to the process side. The labyrinth seal thus provides a reliable and superior method for reducing the potential for particulate in the process side of the mill from damaging the bearing system.
US08801834B2 Article for carbon dioxide capture
An article having a flow-through substrate having open channels defined by porous walls, wherein the flow-through substrate includes alumina; and a CO2 sorbent disposed on the flow-through substrate, wherein the CO2 sorbent impregnates the porous walls of the flow-through substrate. Methods of making the article, its use for CO2 capture, and methods for regenerating the article for further use are also disclosed.
US08801831B1 Fuel saving inert gas generation system
A method and apparatus for controlling inert gas generation. An apparatus comprises an air separation module and an air flow control system. The air separation module is configured to separate an inert gas from air input into the air separation module. The air flow control system is configured to control the flow of the air into the air separation module.
US08801829B2 Method for production of niobium and tantalum powder
Process for the production of valve metal powders, in particular niobium and tantalum powder, by reduction of corresponding valve metal oxide powders by means of vaporous reducing metals and/or hydrides thereof, preferably in the presence of an inert carrier gas, wherein the reduction is performed at a vapor partial pressure of the reducing metal/metal hydride of 5 to 110 hPa and an overall pressure of less than 1000 hPa, and tantalum powder obtainable in this way having a high stability of the powder agglomerate particles.
US08801826B2 Pre-filter or coalescer mounted on pulse cartridge tripod
A filter arrangement is provided for filtering fluid flow in a turbine inlet system. The filter arrangement includes a support structure extending along an elongated axis within the turbine inlet system. A pulse or static cartridge filter for filtering a fluid flow is mounted on the support structure, with the support structure extending from an end of the cartridge filter. A pre-filter for filtering and/or coalescing the fluid flow is provided and is supported by the cartridge filter. A method of filtering fluid flow in the turbine inlet system is also provided.
US08801821B2 Exhaust gas after-treatment device with pressurized shielding
An exhaust gas after-treatment device has a body containing an after-treatment element and a shield that substantially encloses the outer surface of the after-treatment device. The shield is coupled to the exhaust gas outlet of the after-treatment device such that at least a portion of the exhaust gas exiting the after-treatment device is conducted into the space between the outer surface of the after-treatment device and the shield.
US08801818B2 Method and cleaning device for cleaning and checking a particle filter
A method for cleaning and checking a particle filter of a motor vehicle is provided. In a first step soot particles which have collected in the particle filter are burnt off. In a second step ash located in the particle filter is blown out using compressed air. A cleaning device for a particle filter of a motor vehicle is also provided.
US08801816B2 Cemented carbide and cutting tool using same
There are provided a cemented carbide high in thermal diffusivity and excellent in wear resistance, and a cutting tool including a base material formed of this cemented carbide. The cemented carbide is a WC based cemented carbide in which a hard phase mainly constituted of WC grains is bound by a binder phase mainly constituted of Co, and is used for a cutting tool. The binder phase is substantially constituted of Co, or Co and Ni. A total content of Co and Ni is not less than 4.5 mass % and not more than 15 mass %. In this cemented carbide, the WC grains have an average diameter of not less than 0.4 μm and not more than 4 μm.
US08801811B2 Methods for stabilization and use of nanoparticle Fe6°
A stabilized nano-Fe6-iron-crown ether complex is formed by preparing a solution of an iron salt and an oligomer crown compound in dialkylamine or diethylamine. Sodium tetrahydroboron (NaBH4) and dialkylamine or ethylendiamine are added at a temperature of 0-10° C. The mixture is heated to room temperature and boiled, thereby converting the formed iron (II)-borhydride complex (Fe(BH4)2) to a crown ether-iron-hydride complex [CWFe06].(2H)6. At higher temperature this last complex is converted to the Fe06-crown nanocomposite complex. The prepared nanoparticle Fe6° complex may be stabilized by inclusion into a cavity of a macrocyclic compound, and may be (1) added to diesel fuel to reduce NOx emissions upon combustion of that fuel; (2) added to lubricating oils as an anti-corrosion additive; and (3) used as an additive to secondary recovery processes within liquid hydrocarbon formations to increase the sweep efficiency and recovery factor of water-flooding operations.
US08801807B2 Use of diether compounds for chemically cleaning textile, leather, or fur goods
The invention relates to an improved method for chemically cleaning textile, leather, or fur goods, wherein the goods to be cleaned are brought into contact with a cleaning agent, wherein the cleaning agent comprises at least one solvent, wherein according to the invention a cleaning agent is used comprising a compound of the general formula (I) as a solvent, wherein x is a whole number from 1 to 10 and R1, R2, R3, and R4 are selected independently of each other from H, a C1- to C22-alkyl radical or alkenyl radical, a polyalkylene oxide, a C3- to C6-cycloalkyl radical, a carbo- or heterocyclical C3- to C6-cycloalkenyl radical, and an aryl radical. The invention further relates to the use of a solvent having the general formula (I) for producing a cleaning agent for chemically cleaning textiles, leather, and fur goods, and a liquid cleaning agent for use in a method for chemically cleaning textile, leather, or fur goods, wherein the cleaning agent comprises a portion of a solvent having the general formula (I).
US08801803B2 Connection structure of artificial limb and socket, using magnetic locking device
The present invention relates to a structure for connecting an artificial limb and a socket, in which a magnetic locking device is mounted on one end of the artificial limb. The magnetic locking device includes an electro-permanent magnet comprising a permanent magnet and an electromagnet, and one end of the socket is provided with an attachment member capable of being attached to or detached from the magnetic locking device using magnetic force.
US08801801B2 At least partially resorbable reticulated elastomeric matrix elements and methods of making same
The present disclosure relates to reticulated elastomeric matrices, and more particularly to at least partially degradable elastomeric elements that are compressible and exhibit resilience in their recovery and that can be employed in diverse applications including, without limitation, biological implantation, especially in humans.
US08801799B2 Femoral head prosthesis
An implant is provided for replacing the proximal portion of a femur having a substantially intact natural femoral neck and a lateral side opposite the femoral neck, with a bore extending from the femoral neck through a lateral side of the femur. The implant comprises a sleeve having a flange for engaging a proximally facing resected surface of the neck surrounding the bore in the femur and having a bore with an inwardly tapered conical portion. A shaft member having a longitudinal axis, a distal end, and a proximal end is placed in the bore through the femur. The shaft member has an intermediate conically tapered male portion for coupling to the conically tapered bore of the sleeve and a proximal end having a conically tapered portion. A head member having a distal end and a proximal substantially-spherical portion and a tapered recess is configured for positioning in a natural or prosthetic hip socket.
US08801798B1 Bearing fixation
Disclosed is a bearing liner engageable within a shell member with an integrated projection portion. The integrated projection portion may deform a selected amount during positioning of the bearing liner within the shell. The shell may include a complementary engaging portion.
US08801797B2 Joint socket for a hip endoprosthesis
A joint socket of a hip endoprosthesis includes a socket shell implantable in the pelvic bone and a socket insert for providing a bearing for the joint head. The socket shell has an accommodating space having a conical inner surface in which the spherical outer surface of the socket insert is inserted. As a result, the socket insert can be clamped in a self-locking manner in any desired position of rotation and tilt in the accommodating space of the socket shell.
US08801796B2 Bone prosthesis for maintaining joint operation in complex joints
A method of reconstructing a wrist includes removing a patient's scaphoid to create a void. The scaphoid has a plurality of adjacent bones, each of the adjacent bones comprising a surface generally facing the void. The surface of at least two of the adjacent bones is prepared by affixing a magnetic element thereto and a magnetic scaphoid implant is inserted into the void. A magnetic relationship exists between the magnetic elements and the magnetic scaphoid implant.
US08801795B2 Extra-articular implantable mechanical energy absorbing systems
A system and method for sharing and absorbing energy between body parts. In one particular aspect, the system facilitates absorbing energy between members forming a joint such as between articulating bones.
US08801793B2 Interbody containment implant
An interbody containment implant includes a body configured for delivery along a surgical pathway and disposed adjacent vertebrae. The body defines a cavity. At least one biologically compatible agent is configured for disposal within at least the cavity. A barrier is connected to the body and configured to be deployed to prevent the agent from migrating into the surgical pathway. Methods of use are disclosed.
US08801791B2 Spinal interbody spacer
A spinal spacer for engagement between vertebrae includes a body having a substantially contoured first end surface at a distal end and a second end surface opposite thereto at a proximal end. The body extends between the first and second end surfaces to define top and bottom vertebral engaging surfaces that are opposed to one another. The body extends between the top and bottom vertebral engaging surfaces to define opposed side surfaces. The top and bottom vertebral engaging surfaces intersect with the side surfaces to provide a substantially quadrilateral cross-section with rounded corners. The top and bottom vertebral engaging surfaces have a substantially streamlined convex profile. The surfaces converge at the distal end to define a substantially atraumatic blunt nose having a tip configured with planar and/or convex surfaces.
US08801788B2 Expandable medical implant
An implant with an adjustable height for spacing apart skeletal structures. The implant includes a base with a hollow interior. Collars include threaded inner surfaces and are positioned within the hollow interior of the base and are rotatable relative to the base. Threaded posts extend outward from the base and are threaded into the collars. Rotation of the collars adjusts an amount that the threaded posts extend outward from the base. An overall height of the implant can be adjusted to accommodate the size of the space and for the posts to contact against and space apart the skeletal structures.
US08801786B2 Vertebral osteosynthesis material
A graft or an intervertebral piece or cage designed to be inserted between two vertebrae, and an implant in the form of a staple, having two lateral branches designed to be inserted into the plates of the respective vertebrae to be immobilized and a central branch connecting these two lateral branches to each other. At least one lateral branch has at least one mobile portion, movable between an introduction position, in which this mobile portion is located in the extension of the rest of this lateral branch, and an anchoring position, in which this mobile portion protrudes laterally in relation to the rest of the lateral branch, and the implant has movement means allowing the mobile portion to move between the introduction and anchoring positions.
US08801783B2 Prosthetic ligament system for knee joint
A system for a knee joint includes a first fastener and a second fastener operable to be connected to the tibia and femur, respectively. Furthermore, the system includes a flexible prosthetic ligament member. The ligament member is operably coupled to the first and second fasteners to support the tibia and the femur for relative movement. The ligament member extends from a first end to a second end, and includes an outer wall that defines a hollow longitudinal passage portion. The first end extends into and out of the longitudinal passage portion through the outer wall to define a first adjustable loop, and the second end extends into and out of the longitudinal passage portion through the outer wall to define a second adjustable loop.
US08801780B2 Plunger tip coupling device for intraocular lens injector
The present disclosure is directed to devices, systems, and methods directed to mounting a plunger tip to a plunger of an IOL injection device. A plunger tip wrench that is operable to releasably retain a plunger tip may be coupled to a holder extending from an end of the IOL injection device to align the plunger tip with the plunger of the IOL injection device. In some instances, the IOL injection device may include a motor and use a back electromotive force (EMF) of the motor to detect a position of the plunger as it is extended to engage the plunger tip. The plunger tip may be positioned relative to the plunger such that the plunger will engage the plunger tip within the entire range of a negative error position and a positive error position.
US08801769B2 Endovascular graft
An endovascular graft, which is configured to conform to the morphology of a vessel to be treated, includes a tubular ePTFE structure; an inflatable ePTFE structure disposed over at least a portion of the ePTFE tubular structure; and an injection port in fluid communication with the inflatable ePTFE structure for inflation of the inflatable ePTFE structure with an inflation medium. The inflatable ePTFE structure may be longitudinally disposed over the tubular ePTFE structure. The ePTFE structure may be a bifurcated structure having first and second bifurcated tubular structures, where the inflatable ePTFE structure is disposed over at least a portion of the first and second bifurcated tubular structures.
US08801767B2 Drug eluting stent and a guide catheter device assembly for implanting the same
The present invention relates to a drug eluting stent for delivering therapeutic agents to a body lumen. The stent includes an expandable substrate configured for implantation in a vessel of a human body and a therapeutic agent composition coated over the stent. The balloon catheter shaft has a resilient unit that helps to transmit a force to the distal end, thereby helping to cross lesions.
US08801766B2 Devices for deploying intraocular shunts
The present invention generally relates to devices for deploying intraocular shunts without the use of an optical apparatus that contacts an eye, such as a goniolens. In certain embodiments, devices of the invention include a housing, a deployment mechanism at least partially disposed within the housing, and a hollow shaft coupled inside the housing to the deployment mechanism, in which the shaft is configured to hold an intraocular shunt, and the device includes an insertion configuration and a deployment configuration and the insertion configuration involves the shaft being fully disposed within the housing.
US08801759B2 Vertebral fixing system
Embodiments disclosed herein provide a method of placing a vertebral fixing system on a vertebra. The vertebral fixing system comprises a connecting part with members forming a space into which a rod may be inserted. The members are moveable relative to each other. A portion of a ligature may be passed through the connecting part to form a loop extending from the connecting part. When the rod is inserted in the space between the members, the ligature may be tensioned against the rod. The members of the connecting part may be driven together to hold the ligature in place. An adjustable locking means may be utilized to fix simultaneously in position the connecting part relative to the rod and at least one portion of the ligature relative to the connecting part, so as to prevent relative displacement of the rod and the vertebra in opposite directions.
US08801755B2 Suture anchor
A suture anchor assembly includes an anchor having a proximal end, a distal end, a longitudinal axis, a first length, and an internal passage within the anchor. The internal passage begins at an opening in the proximal end and has a second length shorter than the first length. A support structure fixed longitudinally relative to the anchor extends across the internal passage and has a third length shorter than the second length. A suture within the internal passage is received about a distal surface of the support structure. A suture extends out of the opening in the proximal end. A driver includes a cannula having a distal opening and a proximal opening, and the suture is received within the cannula. A first end and the second end of the suture extend outside of the proximal opening, the driver having a drive surface near the distal opening that engages the anchor.
US08801749B2 Rapid exchange catheters usable with embolic protection devices
Catheters, assemblies, and methods for delivering and recovering embolic protection devices. Catheters are provided that can be advanced over single length guide wires and which can be retracted over single length wire shafts of distal embolic protection devices. One catheter is a two-port catheter having two sidewall ports, a distal end port, and a proximal end port. The two-port catheter can be advanced over a guide wire threaded between the distal end port and the distal sidewall port. An embolic protection device wire shaft can be back loaded into the distal end port and out the proximal sidewall port. A three-port catheter includes a distal end port, and distal, intermediate, and proximal sidewall ports.
US08801745B2 Methods and devices for removing material from a vascular site
An expandable cage is expanded within a narrowed region of a blood vessel. The expandable cage has openings therein so that plaque protrudes through the openings when the cage is expanded. A material removing element passes within the cage to remove the plaque extending into the openings. The openings are preferably formed by integrally formed elements which provide a smooth internal surface. The material removing element passes along the smooth internal surface when removing the plaque. A collection bag is coupled to the material removing element to capture the material which has been removed.
US08801743B2 Hair transplanting device and method for the use thereof
A direct hair transplanting device enabling sequential harvesting of single hair follicles from a donor region and implantation of the same at a recipient zone of the scalp comprising a tubular housing (30) with a forwardly projecting tubular needle (2) with an outermost end being formed with a conical obliquely cut knife edge cutting surface. A hair follicle is extracted through rotation of the cutting surface of the needle around a selected hair follicle at the target donor region of the scalp and implantation of the same at a selected recipient locus of the scalp being effected through initiating a forward stroke of a push rod (7) slidable within the interior of tubular needle (2) to implant the hair follicle into the scalp. Appropriate regulation and fine adjustment of the depth of intrusion of needle (2) into the scalp is obtained through differentiated depth of screwing of an internally threaded tubular shaft (35) holding the needle around an externally threaded perimeter of a cylindrical member (34) detachably mounted onto the tubular housing (30).
US08801740B2 Adjustable lancing device
A lancing device (A) includes a lancing adjustment mechanism for adjusting the lancing depth of a lancet (L) into a target portion (99) by operating an operation member (20c). The lancing adjustment mechanism is designed to provide a nonlinear relationship between the lancing depth of the lancet (L) into the target portion (99) and the operation amount of the operation member (20c). With this arrangement, it is possible to suitably adjust bleeding at the lanced portion, thereby improving the operationality of the lancing device (A).
US08801737B2 Apparatus and method for phacoemulsification
A phacoemulsification needle having a hollow passageway terminates in a straight needle tip having a rectangular cross-sectional shape larger than the cross-sectional shape of the needle passageway. The tip is formed off-axis from the passageway, allowing the needle tip to move eccentrically when the needle is subjected to torsional or longitudinal vibratory motion. The inner and outer surfaces of the needle tip are roughened, as by sandblasting, to enhance the cutting effect of the tip when used with a non-longitudinal handpiece. The lip of each needle tip is polished to a high degree of smoothness and the edges of the tip are rounded to lessen the incidence of snags or cuts.
US08801736B2 Percutaneous thrombus extraction device and method
A percutaneous thrombus extraction device for removing a thrombus from within a blood vessel includes a flexible outer sheath defining a first passage between a proximal end and a distal end. An inner sheath is movably positionable within the first passage. The inner sheath defines a second passage between a proximal end and a distal end. The inner sheath is moveable in a radial direction between a collapsed configuration and an expanded configuration along a length of the inner sheath defined between the proximal end and the distal end. A catheter is movably positionable within the second passage, and has an expandable body at a distal end portion of the catheter. The expandable body is movable between a collapsed configuration and an expanded configuration.
US08801731B2 Tool for minimally invasive surgery
The present invention relates to an easy-to-control tool for minimally invasive surgery. In accordance with an aspect of the present invention, there is provided a tool for minimally invasive surgery comprising, an elongated shaft having a predetermined length, an adjustment handle manually controllable by a user, a pitch direction handling part and a yaw direction handling part positioned around one end of the elongated shaft for transferring motions in pitch and yaw directions following the actuation of the adjustment handle, a pitch direction actuating part and a yaw direction actuating part positioned around the other end of the elongated shaft for operating corresponding to the operations from the pitch direction handling part and the yaw direction handling part, respectively, an end effector controllable by the pitch direction actuating part and the yaw direction actuating part, and a plurality of cables for transferring the from the pitch direction handling part and the yaw direction handling part to the pitch direction actuating part and the yaw direction actuating part, respectively.
US08801730B2 Retention device, medical robot and method to set the tool center point of a medical robot
In a retention device, a medical robot and a method to set the tool center point of a medical robot, the retention device has a fixing device to fix the head of a person held by the retention device. The fixing device provides an indication of the position of the openings of the auditory canals of the ears of the person relative to the retention device based on the relation between the fixing device and the head of the person and the relation between the fixing device and the retention device.
US08801729B2 Apparatus and method for subcutaneous electrode insertion
Devices and methods for electrode implantation. A first embodiment includes an electrode insertion tool adapted to tunnel through tissue and attach, at its distal end, to a lead, such that the lead may be pulled into the tunneled space as the electrode insertion tool is removed. Additional embodiments include methods for inserting electrode/lead assemblies, including a method wherein an insertion tool is first used to tunnel through tissue, then to pull an electrode/lead into the tunneled space. In a further embodiment the insertion tool is next used, with a splittable sheath disposed thereon, to create an additional path into tissue, after which the insertion tool is removed, leaving the sheath in place; a lead is inserted to the sheath, and, finally, the splittable sheath is removed over the lead.
US08801727B2 Orthopedic suture passer and method
Instruments and techniques to pass a suture are presented. In one illustrative example, a suture passer includes a drill guide and is able to form a tunnel in a bone and pass a suture through the tunnel so formed.
US08801726B2 One-way bearing cable tensioning tool
An orthopedic tool having a one-way lock bearing and a one-way actuator bearing for tensioning surgical cables around a bone and a method for using the same.
US08801725B2 Instruments and methods used when repairing a defect on a tissue surface
An instrument for determining the proper orientation for repairing a defect site on a tissue surface generally comprises a shaft, a plurality of probes operatively coupled to the shaft, and at least one indicator operatively coupled to the plurality of probes. The probes are configured to extend beyond a first end of the shaft and are movable relative the shaft. The at least one indicator is configured to display the displacements of the probes relative to the first end so that the displacements of the probes may be compared. A method of using the instrument when repairing a defect on a tissue surface is also disclosed.
US08801722B2 Method and device for producing an anchorage in human or animal tissue
An anchorage in tissue is produced by holding a vibrating element and a counter element against each other such that their contact faces are in contact with each other, wherein at least one of the contact faces includes a thermoplastic material which is liquefiable by mechanical vibration. While holding and then moving the two elements against each other, the vibrating element is vibrated and due to the vibration the thermoplastic material is liquefied between the contact faces, and due to the relative movement is made to flow from between the contact faces and to penetrate tissue located adjacent to outer edges of the contact faces. For liquefaction of the thermoplastic material and for displacing it from between the contact faces, no force needs to act on the tissue surface which is to be penetrated by the liquefied material.
US08801719B2 Total joint arthroplasty system
A method and system for performing a total joint arthroplasty procedure on a patient's damaged bone region. A CT image or other suitable image is formed of the damaged bone surfaces, and location coordinate values (xn,yn,zn) are determined for a selected sequence of bone surface locations using the CT image data. A mathematical model z=f(x,y) of a surface that accurately matches the bone surface coordinates at the selected bone spice locations, or matches surface normal vector components at selected bone surface locations, is determined. The model provides a production file from which a cutting jig and an implant device (optional), each patient-specific and having controllable alignment, are fabricated for the damaged bone by automated processing. At this point, the patient is cut open (once), the cutting jig and a cutting instrument are used to remove a selected portion of the bone and to provide an exposed planar surface, the implant device is optionally secured to and aligned with the remainder of the bone, and the patient's incision is promptly repaired.
US08801717B2 Surgical guiding device for reconstruction of anterior cruciate ligament
A surgical guiding device is provided for reconstruction of the anterior cruciate ligament, including a guide arm and a guide hook extending away from the arm. The guide arm is constructed in the form of an arc, supports a mounting that is slidable on the guide arm and has a fixing device for an alignment wire that is separate from the mounting.
US08801716B2 Cartilage repair system with flexible trephine
A system for repairing cartilage includes a trephine having a passage extending along a longitudinal axis of the trephine. The trephine has a distal end and a proximal end. The distal end includes a cutting member operable to cut a cartilage plug from a donor site. The passage is operable to receive the cartilage plug. Also, the trephine is flexible to selectively move between a first position in which the longitudinal axis is substantially linear and a second position in which the longitudinal axis is nonlinear. Moreover, the system includes a guide tool that is removably coupled to the trephine. The guide tool is operable to selectively move the trephine between the first and second positions. In addition, the system includes an ejector tool that ejects the cartilage plug from the passage toward a defect site.
US08801713B2 Surgical drill instrument with motor and locking mechanism to receive an attachment and a cutting burr
A surgical apparatus having a locking mechanism that receives a cutting burr and that may include a loading and running position. The locking mechanism may include a motor driven spindle that carries a locking pawl and a detent pawl that lock the cutting burr in place an prevent the cutting burr from inadvertently falling out of the surgical drill instrument when in its load position. A diamond-shaped portion of the cutting burr may be formed in a six-sided diamond configuration and a perpendicular back end surface. The end of the cutting burr may include another diamond-shaped portion formed in a six-sided diamond shape surface that mates with a complementary surface formed in the receiving end of the spindle of the motor/locking mechanism. In an aspect, the attachment of the cutting burr is such that the cutting burr has substantially zero axial movement and runs true in the running condition.
US08801712B2 Radiolucent bone plate with radiopaque marker
A bone plate has a main body configured to position adjacent bones with respect to each other. The main body includes a plurality of separate layers bonded together. Each layer is comprised of a radiolucent material and has a first aperture and a second aperture that extend through the layer. The layers are all stacked such that the first apertures of all of the layers are aligned with each other and the second apertures of all of the layers are aligned with each other. An insert can be positioned within the first aperture.
US08801709B2 Endoscopic instrument for tissue identification
The present disclosure relates to various apparatus, systems and methods of identifying and treating tissue using at least one electrical property of tissue. Provided is a method for identifying and treating tissue, the method including providing a electrosurgical treatment device including an electrode assembly for measuring one or more electrical properties of a target tissue, the electrode assembly being mounted on a distal end thereof, measuring the one or more electrical characteristics of the target tissue, comparing the measured electrical property values of the target tissue against electrical property values of known tissue types, identifying a tissue type of the target tissue, adjusting an energy delivery configuration of the electrosurgical treatment device to the type of target tissue, and activating the electrosurgical treatment device to treat the target tissue.
US08801708B2 Endoscopic-use treatment instrument
An endoscopic-use treatment instrument includes: a wire; an Y-shaped knife formed by a flexible material and is disposed at the distal end of the wire and used for treatment conducted in a body cavity; a flexible sheath having the wire passing therethrough; an operation section provided to the proximal end of the wire and capable of rotating the wire around an axial line; a cylindrical bearing fixed to the distal end of the sheath; a rotative member inserted into the bearing and capable of freely rotating relative to the bearing; and a regulator section provided to the rotative member and regulating the rotation of the treatment member relative to the rotative member around the axial line. The rotation of the Y-shape knife relative to the rotative member around the axial line is regulated when the Y-shape knife makes contact with the regulator section.
US08801703B2 System and method for return electrode monitoring
A system for determining probability of tissue damage is disclosed. The system includes a plurality of return electrodes adhered to a patient and adapted to couple to an electrosurgical generator configured to generate an electrosurgical current. The system also includes a current monitor and a switching component connected in series with each of the plurality of the return electrodes. The current monitor being configured to measure the electrosurgical current passing therethrough. The system further includes a processor coupled to each of the current monitors and the switching components. The processor is configured to determine the balance of a current load among the plurality of the return electrodes and configured to control each of the switching components to adjust the current passing through each of the return electrodes to balance the current load.
US08801701B2 Method and apparatus for obtaining quantitative temperature measurements in prostate and other tissue undergoing thermal therapy treatment
The invention provides a method and apparatus for monitoring a thermal effect of a conformal thermal treatment to diseased tissue in a target volume. The method includes acquiring a reference image of the volume containing the diseased tissue at a first position of the device, determining a baseline temperature distribution of the reference image, acquiring an image of the volume containing the diseased tissue while delivering a treatment to the volume, performing a phase subtraction between the image and the reference image to determine a change in phase between the image and the reference image and determining a current spatial temperature distribution in the volume containing the diseased tissue.
US08801694B2 Intravesical drug delivery device
Implant devices for intravesical administration and local drug delivery. The device has a body which includes a hollow tube formed of a biocompatible material; at least one reservoir in the tube which contains a drug; and one or more apertures through which the drug can be released. The device is configured for minimally invasive insertion into a body cavity, such as the bladder. The hollow tube may be elastomeric to permit the device to be elastically deformed from its initial shape into an elongated shape for passage through a catheter, where following such passage the device can return to or toward its initial shape to facilitate retention of the device in the body cavity. The body may have a narrow, elongated shape effective to permit insertion of the drug delivery device through a catheter without necessarily deforming the body, yet include flexible projections which effect retention within the body cavity.
US08801690B2 Method and composition for hyperthermally treating cells
A method and composition for hyperthermally diagnosing and monitoring treatment of cells with photoacoustic sound and nanoparticles. The heat (temperature) and photoacoustic sound wave production inside the target tissue is measured. The desired temperature is achieved using a laser and photoacoustic imaging technique. Hyperthermia treatment of tissue applies a heat source to kill cells without protein denaturation. The hyperthermia treatment may further comprise platelet-derived treatment. The method introduces an encapsulated dye that is released at a selected temperature in the target site to indicate that a threshold temperature has been reached to hyperthermally treat the tissue. The temperature to which the target site is treated ranges from about 39° C. to about 58° C., and may last from about 5 seconds to about 30 minutes. The composition which can be a liposome composition encapsulating the dye can be introduced to the bloodstream to flow through the target site.
US08801689B2 Medicament admixing system
A system for mixing or reconstituting a drug contained in a first container with a diluent or fluid contained in a second container. The second container has a port docking assembly for engaging the first container. The first container is rotatable and axially slidable within the port docking assembly. The port docking assembly has an actuator to urge a stopper fluidly sealing the first container into the interior of the first container. The port docking assembly further includes a movable plug constructed to fluidly seal the second container in a first, docked position and to provide access to the interior of the second container in a second, activated position, whereby fluid communication between the first and second containers is provided when the first and second containers are in the second, activated position.
US08801687B2 Absorbent article comprising a stiffening element and a device for disposal
An absorbent article including an absorption member including an absorbent body for absorbing body fluids. The absorption member having an upper side intended to face a wearer during use of the article and a lower side intended to face away from the wearer during use of the article, and a stiffening element that, at least during use of the article, provides the article with a predetermined shape that enhances the fit of the article to the wearer's body. The stiffening element is fastened to the lower side of the absorption member and the stiffening element includes a piece of material formed into a layered structure that significantly contributes to the stiffness of the stiffening element. The layered structure can be extended to a non-layered structure. The piece of material is provided with a first attachment for locking a rolled up or folded used article.
US08801685B2 Apparatuses and methods for negative pressure wound therapy
Disclosed herein are several embodiments of a negative pressure appliance and methods of using the same in the treatment of wounds. Some embodiments are directed to improved fluidic connectors or suction adapters for connecting to a wound site, for example using softer, kink-free conformable suction adapters.
US08801680B2 Angled retracting sheath for safety needle
A safety needle device having a housing, a retractable sheath, and a needle cannula. The retractable sheath includes a tubular portion that is slideably mounted about a portion of the housing to completely or partially encase the length of the cannula. The retractable sheath includes a sheath bevel at the distal end having a blunted or angled tip. The angled tip being configured to suitable injection angles and may be fixed or rotatable. The sheath bevel may include a skin-engaging contact surface at the distal end. The needle may be connected to a needle hub at the proximal end of the housing and includes a needle bevel at the distal end. The sheath bevel and needle bevel may be offset from each other. A safety needle device having a retractable sheath having a graduated injection depth gauge to indicate needle penetration is also disclosed.
US08801678B2 Piston for a needleless valve system
A piston for a needleless valve system comprising a head portion configured to be disposed in the needleless valve system and controlling fluid flow through the needleless valve system. The head portion comprising a continuous top surface, and an opening disposed proximate the continuous top surface, wherein the continuous top surface is non-planar when the opening is in an open position.
US08801675B2 Syringe with adjustable two piece plunger rod
Medical devices comprising a syringe barrel and a two-piece plunger rod are provided. According to one or more embodiments, the two-piece plunger rod includes a distal portion and proximal portion slidably mounted to the distal portion. The distal and proximal portions include a tab and plurality of grooves which engage to adjust the overall length of the plunger rod to a plurality of locked lengths. The locked lengths of the plunger rod permit varying amount of fluid to be expelled from the barrel.
US08801673B2 Safety pen needle assembly having shield for non-patient end
A safety pen needle assembly is provided herein which includes a hub; a needle fixed to the hub having a distal end, formed for insertion into a patient, and a proximal end; a shield; a biasing means disposed to urge the shield from a first position to a second position; and, at least one adjustable tab or locking finger on the hub, the tab or finger being adjustable from a first state to a second state. With the tab or finger being in a first state, the tab or finger interferingly engages the shield so as to restrict movement thereof. The tab or finger in the first state retains the shield in its first position with the proximal end of the needle being exposed. With the tab or finger being in the second state, the tab or finger does not interferingly engage with the shield. As such, the shield is permitted to be urged proximally to the second position by the biasing means. In the second position, the shield covers the proximal end of the needle. Advantageously, with the subject invention, a mechanism is provided for shielding a proximal, or non-patient, end of a pen needle, particularly after use.
US08801669B2 System for access into bodily cavity
An assembly and method for percutaneous placement of a catheter comprising an elongated hollow catheter having a distal end and a reduced cross-section portion at a proximal end thereof. An introducer needle is slidably mounted over said catheter. The introducer needle has an elongated slit adapted to slide over the reduced cross-section portion to separate the needle from the catheter. A syringe may be attached to the proximal end of the catheter. Also, a valve may be attached to the catheter to permit easy collection of fluid.
US08801668B2 Detecting empty medical pump reservoir
A medical device system comprises a reservoir configured to store a therapeutic fluid and a medical pump configured to deliver the therapeutic fluid from the reservoir to a patient. The system also comprises a sensor that can detect a characteristic associated with the pump and a processor to determine if the characteristic detected indicates the reservoir is empty or near empty. The characteristic may comprise a characteristic of a noise made by an actuator within the pump at the end of a pump stroke.
US08801661B2 Robotic catheter system and methods
The apparatus of one embodiment of the present invention is comprised of a flexible sheath instrument, a flexible guide instrument, and a tool. The flexible sheath instrument comprises a first instrument base removably coupleable to an instrument driver and defines a sheath instrument working lumen. The flexible guide instrument comprises a second instrument base removably coupleable to the instrument driver and is threaded through the sheath instrument working lumen. The guide instrument also defines a guide instrument working lumen. The tool is threaded through the guide instrument working lumen. For this embodiment of the apparatus, the sheath instrument and guide instrument are independently controllable relative to each other.
US08801660B2 Infusion set
A device for inserting a cannula into tissue, including a cannula, a protective element which can accommodate said cannula, an operating element for moving the cannula out of the protective element, and a holder fixedly connected to the cannula. The invention encompasses a system for connecting a liquid supply to the cannula.
US08801653B2 Surgical apparatus and methods asociated therewith
A surgical apparatus 10, used in a phaco procedure, includes a filter assembly 44/44a for near, or complete, elimination of air bubbles in an aspiration line of an aspiration system 38. The apparatus 10 includes a suppressor 110, which, during an aspiration mode of operation, maintains a fluid flow rate at 50 cc/min, and, upon an occlusion breaking free, dynamically decreases the fluid flow rate from a high surge rate to the rate at 50 cc/min. The apparatus 10 includes facility for operating in a reflux mode to direct unrestricted fluid flow through the aspiration line of the aspiration system 38.
US08801652B2 Early stage peritonitis detection apparatus and methods
The invention provides, inter alia, automated medical methods and apparatus that test PD effluent in a flow path (e.g., with an APD system or CAPD setup) to detect, for example, the onset of peritonitis, based on optical characteristics of the effluent resolved at cellular scales of distance. For example, according to one aspect of the invention, an APD machine includes, in an effluent flow path, apparatus for early stage peritonitis detection comprising an illumination source and a detector. The source is arranged to illuminate peritoneal effluent in a chamber that forms part of the flow path, and the detector is arranged to detect illuminant scattered by the effluent. The detector detects that reflected or scattered illuminant at a cellular scale of resolution, e.g., on a scale such that separate cellular-sized biological (or other) components in the effluent can be distinguished from one another based on scattering events detected by the detector.
US08801645B2 Graduated compression device having separate body and bands
A compression garment, having: (a) a body portion dimensioned to be wrapped around a body limb, the body portion having a top edge, a bottom edge and a pair of opposite side edges; and (b) a plurality of bands, wherein the bands are each attachable onto the body portion at a plurality of different locations, and wherein the bands wrap around part of the body portion when the body portion is wrapped around the body limb to apply compression force to the body limb.
US08801644B2 Pneumatic compression garment with noise attenuation
A compression garment for applying compression to a part of a wearer's body includes a flexible member, an inflatable bladder defining an inflatable chamber, and a port for communication between a source of pressurized air and the inflatable chamber. The garment also incorporates noise attenuation. The noise attenuation can include noise attenuating members on an air impingement surface of the inflatable bladder.
US08801642B1 Massage tool
A massage tool includes a body that extends from a first end to a second end in a lengthwise direction and has a first side that is spaced from a second side in a widthwise direction. The body defines a peripheral portion and an interior portion. The peripheral portion of the body has a substantially continuous outer periphery that is defined by a concave arc segment that is positioned along the first side of the body and a first convex arc segment that is positioned along the second side of the body. The interior portion has at least one lengthwise member that extends in the lengthwise direction of the body. The peripheral portion of the body cooperates with the interior portion of the body to define a first central aperture that extends through the body and a second central aperture that extends through the body.
US08801638B2 Delordosation device
The invention relates to a delordosation device for users of a rehabilitation appliance, in particular for the verticalization of a sit/stand exercise machine or a wheel chair with a seating area and support aids for a user, the seating area supported in a swiveling manner swiveling for verticalization. To avoid hyperlordosis while patients with a restricted mobility are being straightened up in rehabilitation measures or a verticalization in a sit/stand exercise machine 1 or wheel chair, it is provided that the seating area is supported in a swiveling manner, and at least a portion of the seating area is mounted in a movable manner. Thus, a pelvis rotation can be initiated during verticalization, whereby hyperlordosis is avoided.
US08801636B2 Method and apparatus for determining wellness based on decubitus posture
An example method includes monitoring a first posture including a first lateral decubitus posture (LDP), recording a first LDP record based on the first LDP, computing a first posture trend based on the first LDP record and determining and providing a wellness indication based on the first posture trend.
US08801632B2 Stack magazine system
A meter system for analyzing body fluids includes a supply magazine for storing a stack of test elements, a meter for analyzing fluid samples, and a transport system for transporting test elements from the supply magazine to the meter. The test element in one embodiment includes a lancet integrated test element that has a lancet coupled to a test strip. The transport system is configured to minimize damage to the test element. In one form, the transport system includes a shuttle that slides the top-most test element from the stack onto a connection portion of the meter. In another form, the transport system includes a drum that rotates to transport test elements from the supply magazine to a testing position and, once used, to a waste magazine for disposal. In a further form, the transport system includes a disc that rotates to transport the test elements.
US08801629B2 Dual-wings percutaneous needle
A dual-wings percutaneous needle has a sampling needle, an outer needle, a transverse position wing and a longitudinal position wing. The sampling needle has a length, a lower end and a needle head formed in the lower end of the sampling needle. The outer needle is hollow, is detachably mounted around the sampling needle and has a length shorter than the length of the sampling needle. The transverse position wing is lamellar, is stuck on the sampling needle or is stuck on the outer needle. The longitudinal position wing is lamellar, is stuck on the sampling needle adjacent to the transverse position wing and is perpendicular to the transverse position wing or is stuck on the outer needle adjacent to the transverse position wing and is perpendicular to the transverse position wing.
US08801627B2 Sampler
Sampler for self-sampling of samples from a body cavity, such as cervical samples. Optimum accessibility of the cervix is achieved through the sampler comprising a rigid plastic tube which is rounded at the front side. During its introduction, the sampler can accurately be moved to the cervix. The sampler is surrounded by the vagina and can prevent leakage of flushing liquid, and it is possible to use a relatively small quantity of flushing liquid while producing a sample with a high concentration of cervical cells. It is possible to reach the sampling location in a simple and more accurate way which does not damage tissue. As a result of the tube simultaneously being designed as a cylinder for a plunger, it is possible, to flush the desired location with a solution using a cylinder-plunger and, to take the sample by drawing the plunger back.
US08801625B2 Systems and methods for accurately, substantially noninvasively determining pulmonary capillary blood flow or cardiac output
Methods for noninvasively determining a pulmonary capillary blood flow or a cardiac output of a subject include determining data of the amount of gas exchanged between blood and gas in lungs of the subject, as well as data of an indicator of the content of the gas in blood of the subject. Such a determination may be made during two or more different states of ventilation. A geometric relationship is identified between data points, with any data points outlying the geometric relationship being disregarded. The remaining data points may be used to estimate or calculate a measure of pulmonary capillary blood flow or cardiac output. Systems that include elements that are configured to effect such methods are also disclosed.
US08801618B2 Pulse contour method and apparatus for continuous assessment of a cardiovascular parameter
A cardiovascular parameter such as cardiac output is estimated from a current pressure waveform data set without needing to directly measure blood flow or arterial compliance. The general shape of an input flow waveform over one beat-to-beat cycle is assumed (or computed), and then the parameters of a flow-to-pressure model, if not pre-determined, are determined using system identification techniques. In one embodiment, the parameters thus determined are used to estimate a current peripheral resistance, which is used not only to compute an estimate of the cardiovascular parameter, but also to adjust the shape of the input flow waveform assumed during at least one subsequent beat-to-beat cycle. Another embodiment does not require computation of the peripheral resistance and still another embodiment computes a flow estimate from an optimized identification of the parameters defining the assumed input flow waveform.
US08801617B2 Far-field and near-field ultrasound imaging device
Devices, systems, and methods for ultrasonically acquiring far-field and near-field images within a body are disclosed. An ultrasound imaging device adapted for insertion within a body includes a first ultrasonic sensor configured to transmit ultrasonic waves at a first frequency for acquiring far-field images within the body, and a second ultrasonic sensor configured to transmit ultrasonic waves at a higher frequency than the first frequency for acquiring near-field images within the body. The ultrasound imaging device can be connected to a control device and user interface for visualizing far-field and near-field images acquired by the ultrasonic sensors.
US08801609B2 Apparatus and system for predictive health monitoring
An apparatus and system are provided for monitoring an individual, a group or a community of individuals for respiratory infections. Predictive health data, such as waking peak expiratory flow rate (“WPF”) and basal metabolic temperature (“BMT”) are measured and charted to provide an indication of early stage respiratory infection. Data may be collected for target populations and reported to health agencies for use in combating the spread of infection. An apparatus is provided which can simultaneously measure WPF and BMT and other health-condition-related values and automatically transmit readings to a data collection and analysis program on a remote computer.
US08801606B2 Method of in vivo monitoring using an imaging system including scanned beam imaging unit
A method of monitoring a condition within a patient's body includes locating a scanned beam imaging unit at an imaging location for a period of time to observe and characterize a portion of the patient's anatomy over at least a portion of the period of time. The scanned beam imaging unit is located at the imaging location using a locating instrument. The locating instrument is removed from the patient's body with the scanned beam imaging unit remaining at the imaging location. With the scanned beam imaging unit at the imaging location, a beam of light is scanned across the portion of the anatomy and light is received from the portion of the anatomy. A video image of the portion of the anatomy is produced from imaging data generated using detected light received from the portion of the anatomy.
US08801605B2 Endoscope apparatus
This endoscope apparatus includes: an insertion portion; a bending portion; an operation portion; and a pull member. The operation portion includes: an operation lever; a bearing that supports the operation lever in a state of being freely inclinable around a swinging center; a friction member that is fixed to the operation lever; a press portion configured to contact a contact surface; and a switching device that is connected to the press portion and presses the press portion against the contact surface when rotated in a first rotational direction with a predetermined rotation axis as a rotation center thereof and also so as to cause the press portion to be spaced away from the contact surface when rotated in a second direction.
US08801604B2 Electronic endoscope with laminated tube member
A flexible tube portion of an insertion portion of an electronic endoscope and a universal cable each includes a laminated tube member and a corrugated tube connection member. The laminated tube member includes a conductive tube member and an insulating cover covering the conductive tube member. The corrugated tube connection member includes a fixing hole where an end portion of the laminated tube member is inserted. The end portion of the laminated tube member is adhesively fixed. The end portion of the laminated tube member is an electrical connection portion, and the conductive tube member is exposed. The corrugated tube connection member includes a conductive elastic member in the fixing hole. The conductive elastic member electrically connects the electrical connection portion to the corrugated tube connection member. The conductive elastic member is elastically deformable radially and contacts an outer surface of the conductive tube member with a predetermined pressing force.
US08801602B2 Endoscope insertion shape observation probe
An endoscope insertion shape observation probe including: a bobbin including a first insulation member provided at a front end of a core made of a magnetic member and a second insulation member provided at a rear end of the core; a coil portion formed by winding metal lines on the core; at least two terminal portions to which the metal lines are electrically connected; and signal lines having wires electrically connected to the terminal portions and extended rearward while being sandwiched between an inner circumferential surface of a tube and an outer circumferential portion of the coil portion, wherein the two terminal portions has the wires brazed respectively on surface sides thereof, the surface sides being directed in opposite directions away from each other toward outward of each magnetic coil unit, which improves resistance property of signal lines connected to plural magnetic coil units without increasing an outer diameter.
US08801601B2 Method and system for providing visual guidance to an operator for steering a tip of an endoscopic device toward one or more landmarks in a patient
Landmark directional guidance is provided to an operator of an endoscopic device by displaying graphical representations of vectors adjacent a current image captured by an image capturing device disposed at a tip of the endoscopic device and being displayed at the time on a display screen, wherein the graphical representations of the vectors point in directions that the endoscope tip is to be steered in order to move towards associated landmarks such as anatomic structures in a patient.
US08801600B2 Sexual stimulation device using light therapy
A sexual stimulation apparatus which may comprise a plurality of light sources for photostimulation and microbe reduction of the vagina, clitoris, or both; a plurality of vibrators for mechanical stimulation of the vagina, clitoris, or both; a plurality of modes of operation for achieving improved sexual stimulation in a user; a handle for ease of operation; a controller and programmable memory for containing modes of operation and driving the light sources and vibrators of the invention; a vaginal finger; a clitoral finger; a handle for ease of use; a keypad for user entry of commands; a charging and programming port; and a power source which may be a rechargeable battery which may be rechargeable by direct, inductive or other means; and a handle for ease of operation. The invention also comprises a flexible covering that provides smooth sliding engagement with the vagina and clitoris of a user.
US08801596B2 Sling with support and suspending members formed from same polymer
A sling for treating urinary incontinence includes a suburethral support and first and second elongated suspending members. The suburethral support has opposite ends, is formed from a polymer and has first physical properties including a density, a length and a width. The first and second suspending members are formed from the same polymer as the suburethral support and have second physical properties including a density, a length and a width. The density of the suspending members is different than the density of the suburethral support. The first and second suspending members are each formed separately from and attached to one of the opposite ends of the suburethral support. The length of each of the suspending members is greater than the length of the suburethral support, and the width of each of the suspending members is less than the width of the suburethral support.
US08801593B2 Method of treating anal incontinence
A method for treating anal incontinence is provided, in which a support member is implanted in a tissue pathway extending from a first location posterior to and adjacent the anus, through the perineum anterior to the anus and terminating at a location posterior to and adjacent the anus opposite the first location.
US08801592B2 Sound enrichment for the relief of tinnitus in dependence of sound environment classification
A sound enrichment system for provision of tinnitus relief, the sound enrichment system includes a noise generator, an environment classifier that is configured to determine a classification of an ambient sound environment of the sound enrichment system, a processing system for adjusting a noise signal based at least in part on the classification, wherein the noise signal is obtained using the noise generator, and an output transducer for conversion of the adjusted noise signal to an acoustic signal for presentation to a user. A method of providing a noise enriched sound signal for provision of relief of tinnitus includes obtaining a noise signal, adjusting the noise signal based at least in part on a sound environment classification, generating an acoustic noise signal from the adjusted noise signal, and presenting the acoustic noise signal to a tinnitus suffering person.
US08801588B2 Device for selecting a beam triggering apparatus
The present invention is related to device for selecting one of several triggering apparatuses, which are simultaneously connectable to said device. The triggering apparatuses are arranged for producing each a triggering signal to enable/disable one or more components of a radiation treatment apparatus. The triggering signals depend on detected parameters. The device is configured to receive triggering signals from the several triggering apparatuses, when all of the apparatuses are connected to the device, to receive a selection of one of the triggering apparatuses, to generate a universal triggering signal for the one or more components on the basis of said received triggering signal from the selected triggering apparatus, and to send the universal triggering signal to the one or more components.
US08801587B2 Concrete wash water solidification products and methods
A method for solidifying cementitious wastewater by combining the wastewater with a super absorbent polymer composition that includes a UV-stabilizer to form a mixture and disposing of the mixture as solid construction waste. The UV-stabilizer may be a stabilizing additive in the super absorbent polymer composition that inhibits the reversion from a solid or semi-solid mixture back to a liquid. In some embodiments, the method includes placing the mixture in UV-light non-transmissive packaging. After placing the mixture in the UV-light non-transmissive packaging, the package is closed and can be permanently sealed. The sealed package with solidified material therein can then be disposed as solid construction waste. The super absorbent polymer composition can include zeolite or other molecular sieves.
US08801584B2 Sit-up excerciser having secondary purpose of promoting bowel movement
A sit-up exerciser having a secondary purpose of promoting a bowel movement. Two pivot plates correspondingly pivot, a waist support plate is disposed between the pivot plates to prevent the waist from slipping, and the pivoting angle of the pivot plates can be easily adjusted, so that a person who needs to exercise his or her waist can easily exercise it while having his/her bowel movement facilitated in order to promote the health. The pivoting angle of the pivot plates can be easily adjusted to control the intensity of the exercise, the pivoting speed of the pivot plates can be adjusted to be fast or slow, the temperature of the pivot plates can be adjusted from room temperature up to 70° C. so that the temperature of the surface of the pivot plates can be controlled, and the operating time can be adjusted depending on user's preference.
US08801582B2 Treadmill
A treadmill includes a tread platform having two longitudinal frame bars, a swing unit pivotally mounted at the bottom side of the tread platform, and two inclination angle adjustment blocks. Each inclination angle adjustment block has a core shaft defining an axis line, and a plurality of bearing faces connected to one another and respectively disposed in parallel to the axis line and adapted for selectively supporting the tread platform on the ground. Each bearing face defines with the axis line a respective different vertical distance. The core shafts of the inclination angle adjustment blocks are pivotally coupled to the swing unit to support the inclination angle adjustment blocks at an outer side relative to the longitudinal frame bars of the tread platform. Thus, the treadmill allows manual multi-angle adjustment of the angle of inclination of the tread platform.
US08801577B2 Portable fitness monitoring systems with displays and applications thereof
Portable fitness monitoring systems with displays, and applications thereof, are disclosed. In an embodiment, a portable fitness monitoring device for monitoring an individual during a physical activity may include an article for wearing adapted to releasably fix the portable fitness monitoring device to the individual's body, a sensor adapted to sense performance parameter information, a display adapted to present visual output to the individual, and a memory operatively coupled to a processor. The memory may store computer readable instruction that, when executed by the processor, cause the portable fitness monitoring device to generate a first visual output for the display that includes an indication of the intensity level that the individual should be performing at, and generate a second visual output for the display that includes an indication of the intensity level that the individual is currently performing at.
US08801576B1 Vibratory exercise apparatus having electricity generating function
Provided is a vibratory exercise apparatus having a frame and a handle, including: upper and lower plates formed to be spaced apart from each other at a predetermined interval; a vibrator disposed on a center of the lower plate, having upper and lower vibration plates and installed to be vibrated up and down, and configured to vibrate an operating unit up and down by receiving a drive signal so that the upper plate in contact with the operating unit is vibrated up and down; and a plurality of vibration absorbing units disposed between the upper plate and the lower plate so as to maintain predetermined intervals in an edge region of the lower plate and configured to absorb an impact generated when the upper plate is lowered while the upper plate is vibrated.
US08801571B2 Machine powertrain and method
A machine powertrain includes an engine operably connected to a torque converter and a transmission. A switch associated with the torque converter provides a locking signal indicative of a locked or unlocked condition of the torque converter. A throttle sensor associated with the throttle provides a throttle signal. An electronic controller receives the locking signal and the throttle signal, and controls operation of the engine at least partially based on the throttle signal and the locking signal. The electronic controller determines whether a locked or unlocked condition of the torque converter is present based on the locking signal, determines whether a part throttle operating condition or a full throttle operating condition is present based on the throttle signal, and selects a load-control power curve when the part throttle operating condition is present and when the torque converter switches from the unlocked to the locked condition.
US08801566B2 Quad-clutch multi-speed transmission
A transmission has a first and a second planetary gear set with four input torque-transmitting mechanisms, such as friction clutches, to achieve torque flow through the planetary gear sets to a countershaft gearing arrangement. The transmission includes an input member, an output member, a pair of planetary gear sets, an input clutch assembly having four input clutches and a countershaft gearing arrangement. The countershaft gearing arrangement is operatively connected with the planetary gear sets and includes: three co-planar intermeshing gear sets, first and second countershafts, a first intermediate shaft, a second intermediate and a third intermediate shaft concentric with the input shaft.
US08801563B2 9-speed planetary-gear automatic transmission
A 9-speed planetary gear-automatic transmission includes precisely one gearbox input element, precisely one gearbox output element, precisely four planetary gear sets and precisely six shifting devices for selecting the individual gears of the planetary gear-automatic transmission.
US08801557B2 Hybrid transmission
A hybrid transmission includes a first planetary gear set and a second planetary gear set. The first planetary gear set is constituted of a complex planetary gear train connected to an input element, a motor/generator, and a first clutch, and has four or more rotation elements. The first rotation element of the first planetary gear set is selectively connected to the input element and the first clutch is installed to selectively stop rotation of a third rotation element of the first planetary gear set. The fourth rotation element of the first planetary set is selectively connected to the motor/generator. The second planetary gear set is connected to an output element, and has four or more rotation elements.
US08801553B2 Sports ball
There is provided a sports ball capable of relieving the pain of the hands suffered from impact on the ball and having a soft feel and high flexibility. The sports ball comprises a spherical hollow rubber bladder (2) inflated with air injected into it, a fabric tape reinforcement layer (3) formed by winding a narrow adhesive-impregnated fabric tape (7) around a central spherical portion (6) of the rubber bladder about each of three axes of the rubber bladder with the exception of opposite spherical end portions (5) of the rubber bladder, whereby the fabric tape reinforcement layer is formed as orthogonal lap windings of the fabric tape over substantially all of the spherical surface of the rubber bladder, to provide a fabric tape wound ball core, and surface panels (4) adhered with adhesive to the fabric tape reinforcement layer on the rubber bladder, after vulcanization and forming of the fabric tape wound ball core.
US08801551B2 Baseball bat
Baseball bats described herein may have handle, throat and/or barrel portions that include non-circular cross-sections.
US08801546B2 Distance to golf cup measuring accessory
A tape measure is attached to an accessory attached to a flag pole residing in a golf course hole. The accessory includes a mouth openable to engage the flag pole. Once the mouth is closed, the pole resides in a throat surrounded by a plurality of rollers residing co-axial with the pole. The rollers allow the accessory to freely rotate on the flag pole, but include a non-slip outer surface to prevent the accessory from sliding on the pole. Tape is drawn from the tape measure attached to a measuring tape attachment feature to measure the distance to a golf ball, and the accessory freely rotates on the flag pole to provide accurate repeatable measurements. The tape measure is preferably attached to an axially rotating measuring tape attachment feature.
US08801545B2 Colored golf ball
In a colored golf ball having a core, a cover of at least one layer encasing the core, and a layer of paint applied to a surface of an outermost layer of the cover, the outermost cover layer and/or the paint layer is colored with a fluorescent dye, and the golf ball itself has a color tone which satisfies specific ranges in the Lab color system. The ball is endowed with an excellent spin performance and durability, an appearance characterized by outstanding visibility, stylishness and elegance, and an excellent weather resistance.
US08801539B2 Method of applying decorative layers to a steel shaft
A method of applying decorative layers to a steel golf club shaft is disclosed. The method may be performed on any type of steel shaft and comprises buffing the steel shaft, applying a primer or sealer coat, curing the sealer coat, buffing the sealer coat, applying a decal or decorative layer, applying clear coat over the shaft and decal, and curing the clear coat layer. Some embodiments comprise applying a layer of base coat color before applying a decal. Disclosed methods can, for example, improve adhesion between chrome-plated steel golf club shafts and paint, for golf club branding with increased resistance to wear.
US08801538B2 Interchangeable shaft system
A golf club incorporating an interchangeable shaft system includes a shaft, a shaft sleeve, a club head. The shaft sleeve is coupled to an end of the shaft and is received in a hosel included in the club head. The shaft sleeve is removably coupled to the club head. Hosel and shaft sleeve alignment features provide discrete orientations between the shaft and club head.
US08801535B2 Golf putter and methods thereof
Embodiments of the present invention generally relate to a golf putter and methods of using the same. More specifically, embodiments relate to an improved golf putter, designed to allow a golfer to utilize the putter in a novel manner, yielding enhanced results. In one embodiment, a golf putter comprises a club head having a face thereon, the face designed to impact a golf ball; a shaft, connected on a first end to the club head; a golf grip, positioned on a second end of the shaft, the golf grip having a first gripping section positioned beneath a second gripping section; wherein the first gripping section of the golf grip comprises an first ergonomic cross-section, for being gripped by a control hand of a golfer; and wherein the second gripping section of the golf grip comprises a second ergonomic cross-section, for being gripped by a stabilizing hand of the golfer.
US08801532B2 Golf swing measurement device and golf swing measurement system
A golf swing measurement device is placed in front of a golfer when the golfer swings a golf club to hit a golf ball. The golf swing measurement device includes a sidewall portion extending substantially in parallel to a swing path of the club head; a first sensor coil and a second sensor coil disposed along the sidewall portion for detecting a club head with a permanent magnet on a distal thereof passing therethrough; a calculation unit for calculating a swing time from a start moment of a backswing to a moment of an impact, a head speed upon the impact, and a total flying distance; a display unit for displaying the swing time, the head speed, and the total flying distance; a memory unit for storing measurement data including the swing time, head speed, and the total flying distance; and a transmission unit for sending the measurement data.
US08801527B2 Pool cue
A pool cue shaft assembly includes a thermoplastic support body extending along a shaft axis from a tip end to a collar end. The support body defines at least three fin members extending radially from a geometric center of the support body. Spaces between the radially extending fin members define at least three longitudinal grooves. At least three inlay members are coupled to the thermoplastic support body. Each inlay member is disposed within a respective longitudinal groove and extends from the tip end to the collar end.
US08801520B2 Gaming method and device involving progressive wagers
A method of gaming is disclosed wherein progressive award values may be increased in response to certain pre-established game outcomes, wager amounts or random events. The increased progressive award values may be based on a primary game or secondary game outcome. Another innovation is the resetting of progressive awards upon completion of a bonus event whether or not award actually won in said bonus event. Player tracking systems permit progressive award values to be linked to a particular player such that the progressive award values remain personal to the player. Re-setting increased progressive award values is also disclosed.
US08801516B2 Card reading device and card game fraud detection device
A card used in a card game includes a code including at least two sets of code elements printed in UV-luminous ink on a surface of the card, the sets of code elements provided on one side of the surface of the card along a reading direction of a code reader.
US08801515B2 Device for providing a game
One object is to provide a device for efficiently displaying cards possessed by a user. In accordance with one aspect, a server device for providing a game according to one embodiment includes an identification unit for identifying, as one card group, a plurality of specific cards satisfying a specific criterion among a plurality of cards, and a control unit for generating a display image including the first information identifying one card group and the second information identifying the number of a plurality of specific cards constituting the one card group. The display image is transmitted to a terminal device.
US08801514B1 Grain conveyor for a combine harvester
A grain conveyor for a combine harvester capable of increasing capacity and reducing component wear is disclosed. The grain conveyor includes a grain elevator, a transition chamber and an auger assembly. The grain elevator has an inlet for receiving a flow of grain. The transition chamber includes an inlet and an outlet in fluid communication with the transition chamber inlet and the grain elevator inlet. The transition chamber outlet has an asymmetric non-circular opening larger than the non-cylindrical opening of the transition chamber inlet. The auger assembly is operatively connected to the transition chamber and includes an inlet for receiving a flow of grain and an outlet in fluid communication with the transition chamber inlet.
US08801513B2 Corn cob conveying and cleaning system using induction and air flow from a harvester for separating and spreading light crop residue
A cob conveying and cleaning system for use with a corn harvester, incorporating air induction in cooperation with an air flow from the harvester, for cleaning and separating lighter crop residue to be returned to the field from a mixed flow of the residue and cobs, such that the cleaned cobs can be collected, and the lighter residue optionally spread on the field. The air flow and induction are combined to cooperatively lift or draw the lighter residue from the mixed flow, and to optionally spread the removed lighter residue over a field. The induction apparatus can be located on the harvester, and used as a residue spreader when cobs are not collected.
US08801510B2 Inflatable ventilation life curtain
An inflatable ventilation curtain includes a curtain portion and an inflatable portion provided around a perimeter of the curtain portion. The inflatable portion includes an inner layer and an outer layer attached together, wherein the inner layer is provided immediately adjacent to the perimeter of the curtain portion and wherein the outer layer is provided around at least a part of an outer perimeter of the inner layer, thereby providing two distinct inflatable areas.
US08801505B2 Abrading device and method of abrading a floor structure utilizing the same
An abrading device for abrading a floor structure comprises a first abrading assembly and a second abrading assembly. The first and second abrading assemblies each have a rotationally driven contact roll provided with a sleeve having a plurality of cutouts formed in a pattern thereon. An abrading belt is trained over the sleeve. A first oscillation assembly is connected to the first abrading assembly and oscillates the contact roll of the first abrading assembly in a first direction via a linear reciprocating motion. A second oscillation assembly is connected to the second abrading assembly and oscillates the contact roll of the second abrading assembly in a second direction via a linear reciprocating motion. The first and second abrading assemblies consecutively abrade a top surface of the floor structure with the pattern formed by the cutouts on the respective sleeves to form a distressed visible pattern thereon.
US08801501B2 Razor sharpening system
A self sharpening razor system includes a razor having a handle and a safety housing with a blade extendably received within the safety housing. An integrated sharpening system incorporates an armature receiving the razor and movable between a first position for attachment and extraction of the razor and a second position for sharpening of the blade. A sharpening mandrel is provided with sharpening surfaces for sharpening first and second sides of the blade. The sharpening mandrel is rotatable from to engage the first sharpening surface and second sharpening surface. The sharpening mandrel is laterally oscillated for sharpening of the blade. In alternative embodiments, sharpening is accomplished with reciprocating honing plates with available stropping wheels or integrated honing and stropping wheels with exposure adjustability and sharpness adjustability via honing time variance. A controller is provided for positioning of the armature and sharpening mandrel.
US08801500B2 Method for the simultaneous material-removing processing of both sides of at least three semiconductor wafers
A method for the simultaneous material-removing processing of both sides of at least three semiconductor wafers includes providing a double-side processing apparatus including two rotating ring-shaped working disks and a rolling apparatus. The carriers are arranged in the double-side processing apparatus and the openings are disposed in the carriers so as to satisfy the inequality: R/e·sin(π/N*)−r/e−1≦1.2 where N* denotes a ratio of the round angle and an angle at which adjacent carriers are inserted into the rolling apparatus with the greatest distance with respect to one another, r denotes a radius of each opening for receiving a respective semiconductor wafer, e denotes a radius of a pitch circle around a midpoint of the carrier on which the opening is arranged, and R denotes a radius of the pitch circle on which the carriers move between the working disks by means of the rolling apparatus.
US08801498B2 Finisher with on-board loading and unloading mechanism
A finisher arrangement for surface finishing of parts, including a bowl-type centrifugal finishing device for agitating a mixture of parts and treating media within the bowl, and a handler for loading and unloading the parts/media to and from the bowl, respectively. The finishing device and handler are positioned sidewardly adjacent but on opposite sides of a rotary drive unit which defines a transfer horizontal drive axis. Arm linkages couple each of the finishing device and handler to the drive unit so that each is independently vertically swingable about the drive axis into respective loading and unloading positions.
US08801497B2 Array of abrasive members with resilient support
An abrasive article having an array of abrasive members with an elastomeric support that permits each abrasive member to move independently in at least pitch and roll. Each abrasive member maintains a fluid bearing (air is the typical fluid) with the substrate. The abrasive members are capable of selectively engaging with nanometer-scale and/or micrometer-scale height variations and micrometer-scale and/or millimeter-scale wavelengths of waviness, on the surfaces of substrates. The spacing and pitch of the abrasive members can be adjusted to follow the topography of the substrate to remove a generally uniform layer of material; to engage with the peaks on the substrate to remove target wavelengths of waviness; and/or to remove debris and contamination from the surface of the substrate.
US08801494B2 Undergarment with a weight suspension means
The various embodiments herein describe a women's undergarment comprising a strapless bra having a body portion with a pair of bust cups extending upwardly from a lower chest band, an underwire support frame provided on the chest band extending to the sides of the bra, two inner bra pads suspended in the bust cups, two straps attached to each of the inner bra pad, a loop provided on sides of the bra for passage of the strap, a panty, a support fabric provided inside the panty and an attachment means provided on one end of the strap for attaching the bra to the support fabric. The straps attached to the support fabric exerts a pulling force on the support fabric causing an upward lift of the support fabric thereby distributing the weight of breasts to lower buttocks and upper thighs of the user.
US08801488B2 Chin strap sensor for triggering control of walk-around characters
A walk-around character assembly or system with enhanced control functionality to provide a performer of a walk-around character the ability to silently and non-visibly trigger audio, animation, and/or special effects. A deflection monitoring (or chin movement) sensor is provided in the head portion of the character costume to detect predefined chin movements, e.g., a performer opening their mouth once or twice within a time period to limit false negatives/triggers. For example, a potentiometer or force sensor may be provided in the chin strap of a character head. The performer is able to trigger an audio response or to animate the mouth of the character head with relatively small movements of their jaw as a controller processes the sensor signals to determine when to generate control signals to operate sound equipment on the character costume.
US08801484B2 Life preserver
The present invention utilizes the resilient force (i.e. the force to deform when pressure is added and to return to the original shape when the pressure is removed) of an elastic member or bias member. A large pressure if added in advance to the elastic member or bias member disposed in a preserver body to set the preserver body in a thin and flat state. In an emergency, the resilient force of the elastic member or bias member causes water or air to be sucked into the preserver body. The volume of the preserver body is expanded by the air sucked in due to the resilient force of the elastic member or bias member or by gas generated by a chemical reaction between the sucked-in water and a foaming agent. The increased volume causes the preserver body to float, thereby enabling a wearer to breathe.
US08801479B1 Hydraulic marine jack plate position indicator system
A position indicator for tracking the position of the slide in relation to the support. The position indicator comprises an electronic signal generator device formed as a transducer which is capable of being activated, and an electronic signal generating device formed as a magnet. One of the transducer and the magnet is attached to the hydraulic cylinder. The electronic device is positioned near said activator wherein the signal output of the electronic device is regulated, in relation to ambient light, by a photoelectric cell.
US08801478B2 Watercraft
The disclosed invention is directed to a watercraft which comprises at least one main force member attached to at least one wing; the main force member and/or wing and/or a float attached to the wing comprise sufficient displacement to provide flotation for the craft and its payload. Connected to the main force member is a force transmitting member, to which the engine is connected. The engine may comprise a person or another engine (conventional, electronic, wind, etc.). The engine may comprise a weight which undergoes vertical translation, thereby producing the force transmitted by the force transmitting member to the main force member.
US08801476B2 Audio jack connector having low insertion force and high ejection force
An electrical contact (100) of an audio jack connector includes a main portion (10), a soldering portion (30) bending from a lateral edge of the main portion, an elastic portion (20) extending curvedly from a distal end of the main portion to be located above the main portion. The elastic portion has a flexible beam (21), a first arm (22) extending upwardly from the flexible beam and a second arm (23) curvedly bending from the first arm. The first arm and is consistent with a direction along which an audio plug connector is inserted. The second arm is adverse to a direction along which the audio plug connector is withdrawn.
US08801473B2 Communication connector having a plurality of conductors with a coupling zone
A communication connector including a plurality of conductors each having a plug contact region and an opposing cable conductor termination region. The plurality of conductors are arranged in respective communication pairs. The communication connector includes a coupling zone between a first conductor of a first communication pair and a second conductor of a second communication pair. The coupling zone has at least one first conductive finger connected to the first conductor and at least one second conductive finger connected to the second conductor, each of the first conductive fingers are adjacent to at least one of the second conductive fingers.
US08801468B2 Surface contact card holder for electronic device
A surface contact card holder includes a housing, a tray and two elastic members positioned between the tray and the housing. The housing includes a support plate and defines an opening. The support plate defines a through hole. The tray is slidable and receivable in the housing from the opening and the tray is configured for carrying a surface contact card therein. The tray includes a tray body and a cantilever arm extending from the tray body. The cantilever arm includes a protruding portion releasbly latched in the through hole. When the protruding portion is pressed to release the tray, the tray is automatically slid out of the opening under the elastic force of the elastic members to allow insertion and removal of the surface contact card from the housing.
US08801458B2 Electrical cord reel with removeable cord
An electrical cord can include a cord segment with an electrical connector. The connector can connect to a spool member of an electrical cord reel to form an electrical connection between the electrical cord and the electrical cord reel. The spool can have a recess that engages and/or mates with the connector. When the connector is in the recess, at least a portion of the connector can be flush with a cylinder surface of the spool. The connector can be secured in the recess with one or more fasteners (e.g., screws). The connector and recess can have members that act as the primary load bearing members when spooling and unspooling the electrical cord to inhibit the application of loads on the electrical connection during rotation of the spool member.
US08801455B2 Electrical connector
A cap for an electrical connector comprises a housing and a first cutting member with a first cutting blade. The housing includes an aperture for receiving a cable therethrough. The housing comprises at least a first wire guiding for guiding a first wire of the cable between the aperture and a first recess in a first outside wall of the housing. The first cutting member is arranged in a first slot of the housing and crosses the first wire guiding between the aperture and the first recess. The first cutting member is provided for cutting the first wire.
US08801447B2 Waterproof connector
A waterproof connector includes a plate-like cable having a plurality of conductor parts, a connector housing having a rectangular insertion opening, a sealing member through which the plate-like cable is inserted and that seals between the insertion opening and the plate-like cable, and a holder that covers an outer periphery of an opening end part of the connector housing, that has a lock part which engages with the opening end part, and that holds the plate-like cable. A plurality of bosses are protruded on the holder and are inserted into a plurality of connector side through holes formed in the opening end part and a plurality of cable side through holes formed in the plate-like cable. A back end surface of the sealing member abuts against the plurality of bosses.
US08801446B2 Connector assembly
A connector assembly includes a female connector and a mal connector. The female connector includes a first main body and a number of slots defined in the first main body, and each slot receives a conductive terminal therein. First and second row conductive terminals are arranged along an opposite direction. A number of cables are attached to the first main body and electrically connected to the conductive terminals. A male connector includes a second main body and a number of conductive pins extend through the second main body. Third row conductive pins are corresponding to the first row conductive terminals. Fourth row conductive pins are corresponding to the second row conductive terminals. The connector assembly can transmit signals normally whatever the male connector is plugged to the female connector.
US08801442B2 Device for positioning at least one multiple round plug
A device for positioning at least one multiple round plug on a profiled support, including an adapter with a plurality of external functional surfaces wherein a first functional surface having latch-type profiles is provided for snap fastening the adapter onto the profiled support, and a further functional surface, offset from the first functional surface is provided with a retaining device for releasable attachment of the housing of a round plug. The adapter includes at least one space which is open toward at least one external functional surface and through which flexible cables can pass.
US08801431B2 Combination tool for anatomical measurement for denture manufacture
A combination tool for defining and measuring anatomical features of a patient for the fabrication of dentures. The tool includes components for preparing a double arch impression, for determining the vertical spacing of the patient's mouth, for measuring the lip, mid line and smile lines of the patient, and for determining the occlusal plane of the patient. This single tool replaces the need for a multitude of tools typically used in preparing for the fabrication of dentures.
US08801429B2 Burner arrangement
A burner arrangement is disclosed with a conical swirler in the form of a double cone which is arranged concentric to a burner axis and which encloses a swirl chamber, and with a central fuel lance which lies in the burner axis and projects from the cone point of the swirler into the swirl chamber, wherein a first stage is provided for injecting premix fuel, in which the premix fuel is injected radially outwards into the swirl chamber through injection openings which are arranged on the fuel lance, and wherein a second stage is provided for injecting premix fuel, in which the premix fuel is injected into an air flow, which is guided in the double cone, through injection openings in the double cone. With such a burner arrangement, the gas pressure which is required in the first stage is reduced by the entire premix fuel being injected into the swirl chamber in the first stage through two oppositely-disposed injection openings with increased opening diameter.
US08801426B2 Injection molding system having a dynamic mixer
A dynamic mixer and associated injection molding system for mixing a melt flow. The injection molding system includes: a hot runner assembly having a plurality of splits; an injection unit that delivers a melt flow to the plurality of splits in the hot runner assembly via a melt channel; and a dynamic mixer incorporated into the melt channel upstream from the plurality of splits, wherein the dynamic mixer includes a rotor assembly configured to be rotationally driven by the melt flow, and wherein the rotor assembly is further configured to mix the melt flow passing through the melt channel.
US08801425B2 Mold for fabricating light guiding plate
A mold for fabricating a light guiding plate includes an upper mold, a lower mold and a die core assembly. The upper mold defines a first cooling channel therein. The lower mold defines a cavity thereon. The die core assembly is mounted on the upper mold, and includes a base plate connected to the upper mold and a core plate detachably located at a side of the base plate facing the lower mold. The base plate defines a second cooling channel. The second cooling channel communicates with the first cooling channel respectively to cooling the mold.
US08801424B2 Device for expanding hollow bodies
A device for expanding a hollow body includes a plurality of sector-shaped expandable jaws disposed in a holder and distributed about a central axis. The expandable jaws extend along the axis to a free end and are radially movable with respect to the axis. Each of the expandable jaws includes: a cylindrical surface having a radius corresponding to a radius of the expanded hollow body and an inward radial taper at an area of the free end; and a plurality of projections and recesses disposed in a joint region and arranged in an alternating manner with each other along the axis and at least partially extending into the area of the free end. The cylindrical surfaces are rounded off to transition to respective outer surfaces of the projections. The outer surfaces of the projections extend, at least at ends of the projections, radially inward with respect the cylindrical surfaces.
US08801417B2 Sheet forming die and sheet forming method
Provided is a sheet forming die capable of finely controlling the flow rates of the respective divided flows of a molten resin with precision. The sheet forming die is a sheet forming die 3 configured to: receive a first molten resin B; to receive a second molten resin A; and to thus form a sheet-shaped resin-made product by discharging the molten resins A, B from a lip gap 15. The sheet forming die 3 includes: a first passage 17 provided to flow the supplied first molten resin B up to an upstream end of a lip part 23 located upstream of the lip gap 15; a second passage 19 provided to flow the supplied second molten resin A up to the lip part 23, the second passage branching out into a plurality of passageways 19A, 19B in a midstream portion thereof, downstream ends of these passageways 19A, 19B being connected to portions in an upstream end of the lip part 23, respectively; and temperature controller 21 configured to locally control a temperature of a midstream portion of at least one of the passageways 19A, 19B in order to control a flow rate of the second molten resin A in the passageways 19A, 19B.
US08801413B2 Helical gear pump
A helical gear pump includes a second helical gear provided coaxially with a drive helical gear, a third helical gear engaged with the second helical gear and provided on a third shaft different from a shaft of the drive helical gear and a shaft of a driven helical gear, and a bearing for supporting the third shaft and receiving a thrust force.
US08801408B2 Piston pump for a vehicle brake system
The invention relates to a piston pump for a motor vehicle braking system having a housing section and a piston guided displaceably in the housing section. The invention further has an intake valve having a valve seat arranged on the piston. The valve seat is configured as a circular sealing edge. A spherical valve body of the intake valve seals against the spherical sealing edge.
US08801407B2 Hybrid electro-hydraulic power device
A hydraulic power device for effecting operation of at least one load, the hydraulic power device including a motor having a predetermined motor speed rating and motor power rating, at least one pump operably coupled to the motor, the pump being configured to provide, to the at least one load, a predetermined hydraulic fluid flow at the predetermined motor speed rating, and a variable frequency drive connected to the motor, the variable frequency drive being configured to effect operation of the motor at a speed above the predetermined motor speed rating such that the at least one pump operates to provide an excess hydraulic fluid flow during operation of the motor substantially above the predetermined motor speed rating where the excess fluid flow is greater than the predetermined hydraulic fluid flow.
US08801405B2 Centrifugal pump
A sealless-type centrifugal pump includes a casing that forms a pump chamber having a liquid inflow port and an outflow port, an impeller disposed in the pump chamber and rotatably supported by a pivot bearing, and a magnetic coupling device including a driven permanent magnet built into the impeller and a driving magnet that rotationally drives the driven permanent magnet through a partition. The impeller supported in the direction of the rotation axis with respect to the casing is driven by the magnetic coupling device, and pressure is applied to liquid introduced from the direction of the rotation axis through the inflow port to send the liquid through the outflow port in a radial direction. The magnetic coupling device is disposed on a line inclined from an impeller rotating surface to the inflow port side toward the center of the rotation axis.
US08801403B2 Compressing diaphragm pump having abnormal pressure preventing features for spray use
A compressing diaphragm pump having abnormal pressure preventing features for spray use has a hollow tubular air discharge assembly having a plunger body and compressed spring as well as an air passage pierced at the wall of the water exit port and an air discharge orifice pierced of the central top surface of the air discharge assembly for connecting with the plunger body. When air is mixed within the pressurized water, the resilient force of the compressed spring is bigger than the water pressure of the pressurized water. This allows the air mixed in the pressurized water to get into the air passage and pass the plunger opening of the plunger body via through pore, and is dispelled out of the upper hood via the air discharge orifice of the air discharge assembly.
US08801400B2 Secure connection terminal for hermetic compressor
A sealed compressor has an electric motor driving a compressor pump unit, and a shell enclosing the electric motor and compressor pump unit. An electrical connector with the shell supplies electrical power to the motor. A terminal housing is mounted to an outer surface of the shell, and a terminal plug is received within the terminal housing. The terminal plug has electric connections to connect into the electric connector within the shell. The housing includes a cover plate enclosing a chamber for the housing and which receives the terminal plug. A spring extends from the terminal plug, and reacts against a surface of the cover to bias the terminal plug to maintain the electric connection between the terminal plug and the electrical connector in the shell.
US08801399B2 Hermetic reciprocating compressor
Disclosed herein is a compressor in which oil retained in a hermetic case may be raised through an inner circumferential surface of a rotating shaft. The rotating shaft is provided with a hollow portion, and a fixation shaft with a spiral wing is inserted into the hollow portion to raise oil. Also, a spiral groove is formed on an outer circumferential surface of the rotating shaft to cause the raised oil to descend and lubricate the outer circumferential surface of the rotating shaft, and the hollow portion and the spiral groove are connected to each other via a guide passage.
US08801397B2 Compressor
A compressor (100) includes a closed casing (101), a compression mechanism (120), a motor (130) and an oil separating member (17A). The oil separating member (17A) rotates together with a shaft (140). The oil separating member (17A) has a peripheral wall (173) and a bottom wall (175) that form a recess (171). An inlet of a discharge pipe (160) penetrating the closed casing (101) is located in the recess (171). A plurality of oil expelling ports (174) are provided in the peripheral wall (173) of the oil separating member (17A) so as to be scattered.
US08801388B2 Bi-cast turbine rotor disks and methods of forming same
A bi-cast turbine rotor disk and method of forming the same are provided. The disk includes a ring and a blade. The ring comprises a superalloy that includes a plurality of elements, and the blade extends from the ring. The blade comprises a non-metallic ceramic matrix composite, and at least one element from the superalloy of the ring is diffused into the non-metallic ceramic matrix composite of the blade.
US08801386B2 Blade for a water turbine
A turbine blade is described which includes a blade root; a blade tip; a leading edge extending from the blade root to the blade tip; a trailing edge extending from the blade root to the blade tip; a blade root chord defined as a straight line between the leading edge and the trailing edge at the blade root; a blade tip chord defined as a straight line between the leading edge and the trailing edge at the blade tip; wherein the blade tip chord is angularly displaced from the blade root chord by a twist angle of between 50° and 90°.
US08801385B2 Vibration damper device for turbomachine blade attachments, associated turbomachine and associated engines
A vibration-damping device for a turbomachine blade including a blade root configured to be inserted into a pocket of a carrier disk of a bladed wheel, the device configured to be positioned between the blade root and a retaining wall of the pocket. The device includes at least one shim including an assembly of layers of rigid materials and of viscoelastic materials, and including two portions, each forming a lateral branch which can be inserted along one of the two retaining walls, the two lateral branches being connected to one another, so as to constitute a single part, by a third portion forming a shim bottom of rigid material. At least one layer of viscoelastic material is positioned between two layers of rigid materials.
US08801384B2 Airfoil attachment holding an airfoil root in a broach fitting
An airfoil attachment including a support and flanks rising on it to delimit a broach compartment designed to receive and hold an airfoil root is provided. The flanks are machined so as to separate the portions and prevent a complete break of a flank and detachment of the airfoil when a crack develops because the crack is stopped by one of the notches.
US08801378B2 Low offset hingeless rotor with pitch change bearings
A hub assembly for a tilt rotor includes a yoke having a plurality of yoke arms located substantially orthogonal to a central axis of the hub assembly. An inboard pitch change bearing assembly substantially surrounds a yoke arm of the plurality of yoke arms. An outboard pitch change bearing assembly is located at the yoke arm. The inboard pitch change bearing assembly and the outboard pitch change bearing assembly are operably connectable with a rotor blade to allow pitch change of the rotor blade relative to the yoke about a pitch change axis.
US08801375B2 Fan arrangement
A fan arrangement has an electric motor (18) that serves to drive a fan wheel (26; 170) and that has an internal stator (44) and an external rotor (22), with which latter the fan wheel is drivingly connected. Arranged on a circuit board (17) are components (11) that are coolable, at least in part, by an air flow (13) generated during operation by that fan wheel (26; 170). Associated with the fan wheel is an air-directing element (100) that is mounted on the circuit board (17) separately from the electric motor (18) so that, in operation, a cooling air flow (13) is generated which emerges from the fan arrangement (16) between the circuit board (17) and air-directing element (100).
US08801374B1 Fan trays having stator blades for improving air flow performance
Fan tray assemblies for cooling electronic devices in data processing units are described herein. In some embodiments, an apparatus includes a fan tray and a stator member. The fan tray is configured to be mounted within a data processing unit, and defines an opening. The fan tray is configured to be coupled to a fan such that the fan and the opening collectively define a portion of an air flow path. The stator member includes multiple stator blades. The stator member is separate from the fan and configured to be coupled to the fan tray such that the stator blades are within the air flow path.
US08801370B2 Turbine case impingement cooling for heavy duty gas turbines
A impingement cooling system for heavy duty turbines that includes a manifold affixed to a casing of the heavy-duty turbine, wherein the manifold includes a plurality of impingement holes in the surface of the manifold and a blower that provides air flow across the plurality of impingement holes of the manifold to cool the casing of the heavy-duty turbine to control the clearance between a tip of a turbine blade and a shroud of the heavy-duty turbine.
US08801367B2 Hollow fan blade channel configuration to reduce stress
A fan blade has a main body extending between a leading edge and a trailing edge. Channels are formed into the main body from an open side extending toward an opposed closed side. A plurality of ribs extending across the main body intermediate the channels, the fan blade has a dovetail, and an airfoil extending radially outwardly from said dovetail. A bottom surface of the channels is defined at the closed side of the channels. Sides of the channel merge into sides of the ribs, with a compound fillet at the bottom surface. A first radius of curvature is used along the bottom, and merging into at least a second radius of curvature at the sides. The first radius of curvature is larger than the second radius of curvature.
US08801364B2 Impeller backface shroud for use with a gas turbine engine
An impeller or axial stage compressor disk backface shroud for use with a gas turbine engine is disclosed. The backface shroud includes, but is not limited to, a substantially funnel shaped body having a surface. The substantially funnel shaped body is configured to be statically mounted to the gas turbine engine substantially coaxially with the impeller or axial stage compressor disk. The surface and a backface of the impeller or axial stage compressor disk form a cavity that guides an airflow portion to a turbine when the substantially funnel shaped body is mounted coaxially with the impeller or axial stage compressor disk and axially spaced apart therefrom. The airflow portion has a tangential velocity and a recessed groove in the surface of the backface shroud is oriented generally transversely to the tangential velocity to at least partially interfere with the airflow portion, thus affecting static pressure in the cavity.
US08801359B2 System and method for extracting power from fluid using a Tesla-type bladeless turbine
Smooth, preferably variable-sweep fluid collection device surfaces disposed into opposition with wind, river, surf, ocean or tidal currents generate enhanced velocity fluid flows at length driven into onboard work-extracting disc turbines at advantageous angles of attack. Keyed to shafts turning freely through optionally extendable volutes, disc turbines comprising a dense population of smooth, axially fixed or adjustably spaced discs conducting preferably laminar flow between adjacent elements develop significant torque through boundary layer adhesion and viscous shear-stress between fluid layers. Exhaust of disc turbine throughput into divergent channels drafting into external currents of initially higher than ambient velocity and lower pressure may reduce turbine discharge backpressure, rapidly clear system throughput, and allow normally disadvantageous drag to be utilized to develop greater work generation. Gainfully turning with, instead of at odds to natural or anthropogenic currents provided, disc turbines utilized as disclosed may provide unprecedented renewable energy from fluids in motion.
US08801358B2 Method and loading system for order-picking articles onto destination load carriers
A method and loading system for order-picking articles in the form of individual articles and/or pack units, in which requested articles are packed, in accordance with the orders, onto destination load carriers and despatched. The requested articles (2) which are to be order-picked, in at least one order-picking station (4), are arranged and/or stacked in the pattern of the destination load carrier (3) on requested and transportable auxiliary load carriers (6), each provided for an order or part of an order. The auxiliary load carrier (6) together with a quantity of articles, provided as layers and/or stacks, to be conveyed to a loading station (5) is automatically transferred as a unit onto a placed-in-position destination load carrier (3) supplied, wherein preferably rolling containers and pallets are used as the destination load carriers.
US08801356B2 Pipe kicker/indexer for pipe handling systems
A kicker/indexer is provided for a pipe handler for moving pipe to and from the drill floor of a drilling rig. The kicker/indexer includes a frame that is configured to attach to a catwalk, a push block drive assembly for receiving and pushing pipe towards a trough located on the catwalk, and a kicker drive assembly for pushing pipe out of the trough. A pipe handler is provided that includes a catwalk attached to a lower frame with a pair of scissor-legs and a trough nested therein, the trough having an end that can be raised and moved towards the drill floor. The trough can further have a skate slidably disposed thereon to pushing pipe on the trough towards to the drill floor.
US08801355B2 Grabber accessory for prime mover
A grabber accessory for attachment to a prime mover is described, and may include a stanchion, pivotable arm having a proximate end attached to the stanchion to form a pivot point of the arm and a distal end extending generally transverse to the stanchion and terminating in at least one downward tine, and hydraulic cylinder attached between an upper end of the stanchion and a surface of the arm between the proximate and distal ends. The hydraulic cylinder may be configured to raise and lower the arm under hydraulic control from a main hydraulic feed of the prime mover. The accessory further includes a pair of vertically spaced clamping assemblies attaching a lower portion of the stanchion to frame member surfaces of the prime mover so as to secure the accessory in an upright position.
US08801352B2 Pick and place tape release for thin semiconductor dies
Pick and place tape release techniques and tools that allow thin, fragile semiconductor dies to be removed from wafer tape with reduced tape release forces applied to the semiconductor dies. For example, a method for removing semiconductor die from wafer tape includes mounting a wafer ring having wafer tape and one or more dies attached to the wafer tape, and aligning an ejector pin assembly under a target die to be removed from the wafer tape. The ejector pin assembly includes a vacuum housing, an ejector pin, a suction plate, and an aperture formed in the suction plate in alignment with the ejector pin. A vacuum is generated in the vacuum housing to draw the tape against a surface of the suction plate. The ejector pin is extended through the vacuum housing out from the aperture of the suction plate to push against a backside of the target die and release the tape from the backside of the target die, and as the tape is released from the backside of the target die, the tape is drawn down against the suction plate by suction force of the vacuum.
US08801351B2 Device for cutting to length and feeding spine strips for a case maker
In a device for cutting to length and feeding spine strips (3) for a case maker (1), a center strip conveying device (30) is provided that advances the spine strip material (5, 6) by the spine width (BS) transverse to the board feed direction (23) in a cyclic fashion. The spine width (BS) can be changed from work cycle to work cycle without accumulating additional waste. This can be realized because the previously required width sizing on the material web is eliminated.
US08801350B2 Locking and unlocking nut structure
A locking and unlocking nut structure contains a body including a through hole, a diameter of the through hole being larger than that of a screw rod (tube), the body also including a semi-circular recess with a starting segment and a stopping segment, the body further including a slot and an diameter-decreased screw section; a slidable block retained in the semi-circular recess and moving between the starting segment and the stopping segment, the slidable block including first threads, while the slidable block is fixed on the starting segment, a distance from the first threads of the slidable block to an inner wall of the through hole is larger than an outer diameter of the screw rod (tube); while the slidable block is fixed on the stopping segment, a distance from the first threads to the diameter-decreased screw section is equal to the outer diameter of the screw rod (tube).
US08801348B2 Connector
A blind fastener for clamping together two components through which the fastener extends comprises a sleeve having a radially expandable first end, a threaded fastener for extending through the sleeve, an expansion head threadedly mounted on the threaded fastener whereby movement of the expansion head towards the second end of the sleeve expands the first end, a collar for engaging with the second end of the sleeve and having an aperture through which the threaded fastener extends, the threaded fastener having a head formation for rotation of the threaded when the collar is positioned between the head portion and the sleeve, and said second end of the sleeve and the confronting surface of the collar comprising inter-engaging formations which resist relative rotation of the sleeve and collar but permit their axial separation.
US08801344B2 Drill bit
The invention proposes a drill bit (1) leaving at least one main cutting edge (3, 3′) and at least one center cutting edge (15, 15′), wherein the drill bit (1) comprises a longitudinal axis (13), and wherein the at least one main cutting edge (3, 3′) and the at least one center cutting edge (15, 15′) are each assigned a rake face (7, 7′, 11, 11′). The drill bit (1) is characterized in that the rake face (11, 11′) assigned to the at least one center cutting edge (15, 15′) has at least two part faces (19, 19′; 21, 21′) which—as seen as perpendicular to the longitudinal axis (13) of the drill bit (1)—form an obtuse angle with one another, so that the at least one center cutting edge (15, 15′) comprises at least two part cutting edges (23, 23′; 25, 25′).
US08801341B2 Transport system and guide system for such a transport system
Guiding system defining a moving path for containers having a collar, the system being adapted to be associated to a system for applying a pneumatic force on said containers so as move the containers the one after the other along the moving path according to a forward moving direction, the guiding system including at least a component for reducing the friction between at least the collar of the containers and guide profiles of the guide system, wherein the component includes lubricant dispensing channels having each an inlet, and an outlet associated to a groove.
US08801340B2 Pipe part for conveying a solid particulate material
A pipe part (100) for conveying a solid particulate material, comprising an outer tubular element (1) stretching along a longitudinal axis (A) and having first (9) and second (12) sections axially displaced from each other. An inner tubular element (20) is disposable inside the outer tubular element (1) and adapted for longitudinally conveying the solid particulate material from one end to another end. The inner tubular element (20) comprises an aeration-fluid-permeable wall part (23), and is sealingly connected with—and flexibly supported by—the first and second sections (9,12) to form an aeration fluid distribution chamber (40) between the first and second sections (9,12) and the inner (20) and outer (1) tubular elements. The aeration fluid distribution chamber (40) is provided with an aeration fluid inlet (15) to define an aeration fluid flow path (19) between the aeration fluid inlet (15) through the aeration-fluid-permeable wall part (23) via the aeration fluid distribution chamber (40).
US08801338B2 Nested mine roof supports
This invention is directed to a mine roof support set including a plurality of nested containers. Each container in the set has a progressively smaller cross-sectional dimension to allow the containers to be nested one within the other. The plurality of containers can be nested during transportation of the mine roof support set to a mine site. The containers can be separated at the mine site and filled with a load-bearing material. The containers filled with the load-bearing material are placed with their longitudinal axis between a mine roof and a mine floor.
US08801334B2 Method for producing an underwater foundation element, adjustment head for an underwater foundation element and underwater working arrangement
A method for producing an underwater foundation element in a bed of a body of water, in which a working platform for guiding a drilling tool is lowered to the bed of a body of water, so that a drill-hole is introduced into the bed of a body of water and a pile-shaped underwater foundation element is arranged in the drill-hole and anchored therein. A precise alignment is achieved in that on the pile-shaped underwater foundation element a measuring unit is fixed, through which positional data of the pile-shaped underwater foundation element are determined and in that depending on the determined positional data the position of the underwater foundation element is set by at least one positioning means on the working platform prior to anchoring. The measuring unit is arranged on an adjustment head.
US08801333B2 Ice worthy jack-up drilling unit with gas agitation and leg ice shields
A system operates like a conventional jack-up rig while in open water with the hull jacked up out of the water. However, in the event of ice conditions, the legs are held in place by cans embedded in the sea floor to resist lateral movement of the rig and the hull is lowered into the water into an ice defensive configuration. The hull is specifically shaped with an ice-bending surface to bend and break up ice that comes in contact with the hull while in the ice defensive configuration.
US08801332B2 Underwater energy storage system and power station powered therewith
An underwater energy storage system includes a tank for storing a compressed gas that is adapted to be stored underwater. The tank includes at least one water opening through which water from surrounding environment can flow into and out of the tank, and at least one gas opening through which the compressed gas is received. The underwater energy storage system further includes at least one duct communicating between the at least one opening for gas flow and a source of compressed gas and a compartment constructed over a roof of the tank, wherein said compartment is adapted for receiving weights at a sinking site of the tank.
US08801331B2 Tidal power plant and method for the creation thereof
The invention relates to a tidal power plant, comprising a turbine, which rotates on a carrying element; a foundation structure, on which the carrying element is supported on at least one coupling device, an upper part of the coupling device that is part of the carrying element being detachably operatively connected to a lower part of the coupling device that is part of the foundation structure in the installed state, wherein the invention is characterized in that the carrying element is individually adapted to the orientation of the lower part of the coupling device existing after the foundation structure has been created.
US08801322B2 Universal hitch with integral articulation, clamping and locking
A hitch for connecting a movable object to a rigid rod which includes a semi-rigid main substrate including a plurality of grooves, a flexible element fixedly formed over the main substrate including a first portion for gripping a rigid rod, a clamp connected to the first portion of the flexible element. The clamp includes a lever that couples the clamp to at least one of the plurality of grooves of the main substrate such that the first portion can grip the rigid rod.
US08801318B2 Joint
A joint for use in a suspension system including an elongated suspension member is disclosed. The bearing assembly comprises an outer race, an inner race, a shaft, a collar, and a seal. The outer race is configured to be coupled to the elongated suspension member. The inner race is coupled to the outer race and is moveable relative to the outer race. The shaft is coupled to the inner race. The collar is coupled to the shaft and limits the movement of at least one of the inner race and the shaft relative to the outer race. The seal member is configured to form a seal between one of the shaft and the first collar and one of the outer race and a portion of the elongated suspension member.
US08801317B2 Ring binder mechanism
A ring binder mechanism includes a housing, a ring support, and rings for holding loose-leaf pages. Each ring includes a first ring member and a second ring member that are moveable between a closed position and an opened position. An actuator is mounted on the housing for moving the ring members from the closed position to the opened position. A travel bar has at least one locking element and is moveable between a locked position wherein the ring members are locked in the closed position and an unlocked position wherein the ring members are capable of being moved to the opened position. An intermediate connector operably connects the travel bar to the actuator. A portion of the intermediate connector is captured by and moveable with a wide section of a mounting groove in the travel bar so the intermediate connector can move relative to the travel bar.
US08801315B2 Airless cosmetics applicator with airtight sealing dual cap
An airless applicator may deliver high/low viscosity liquids or semi-liquids, and contains a valve controlling flow between a product reservoir and an intermediate pooling area, while a narrow opening between the intermediate pooling area and a product dispensing chamber controls flow therebetween. This arrangement prevents backflow to the product reservoir, precluding an influx of contamination therein. Product delivery is by specially adapted applicator heads. In one embodiment, a plurality of prongs, and openings into the product dispensing chamber, permit application of mascara onto eyelashes. Alternating prong heights increases effectiveness in applying mascara onto all sides of a user's lashes. Other applicator heads are configured for lip product applications such as for lipstick, and for eye products such as eyeliner and eye shadow. An air-tight sealing cap having a spring biased inner cap member may prevent moisture from escaping from the product dispensing chamber and prevent entry of contaminants therein.
US08801310B2 Multiple wiper
The invention relates to a wiper for wiping off a cosmetics applicator that includes a retaining section for fixing the wiper on a cosmetics storage container. The wiper includes several wiping organs disposed one behind the other in an operative direction, of which at least one wiping organ is retained on the retaining section or on an adjacent wiping organ either in such a way that that the at least one wiping organ communicates unimpededly both on its front as well as on its rear with a space storing a cosmetic, or only by a plurality of columns.
US08801306B2 Printing apparatus and method of printing with ribbon tension adjustment using movable ribbon guide members
Systems and techniques relating to printing include an apparatus including a base mounting a storage spool to store printing ribbon including a web carrying marking medium, the base mounting a ribbon take-up spool. A ribbon path from the storage to the take-up spool runs through a printing station where there is a print head, and printing is effected at the printing station when relatively moving the head and the substrate with the ribbon interposed between. The apparatus includes a movable ribbon guide member, a ribbon guide member drive device to move the ribbon guide member, and a controller which, during or in between at least some printing operations, controls drive of at least the take-up spool to advance ribbon through the printing station. The controller controls the ribbon guide member in response to an input signal representative of ribbon tension along the ribbon path to adjust the ribbon tension.
US08801304B2 Camera module and method for manufacturing camera module
Certain embodiments provide a camera module including a lens holder that holds a lens, a transparent substrate disposed below the lens in the lens holder, a driving-device, a substrate including a sensor unit, a driver IC, a plurality of external electrodes electrically connected to the sensor unit and the driver IC, and a wiring for the driving-device. The driving-device is a device which moves the lens in the vertical direction and which is disposed above the transparent substrate in the lens holder. The substrate is disposed below the transparent substrate in the lens holder. The driver IC is an IC which drives the driving-device and which is disposed at a rear side of the substrate. The wiring for the driving-device electrically connects the driving-device with the driver IC.
US08801303B2 Case structure and imaging device
Herein describes, by example, a case structure that includes a first cover, a second cover and a first side frame. The second cover opposes the first cover. An internal space is formed between the first cover and the second cover. The first side frame is arranged between the first cover and the second cover. The first side frame has a reinforcing part and a strap holder part. The reinforcing part is arranged along each of a first side end part of the first cover and a second side end part of the second cover. The reinforcing part is connected to each of the first side end part and the second side end part. The strap holder part connects to an end part of the reinforcing part. The strap holder part is folded in an outward direction from the internal space.
US08801298B2 Slide actuated field installable fiber optic connector
A connector assembly for reversibly terminating a fiber optic cable comprising an optical fiber stub and an actuator illustratively configured for sliding along a path between a first position and a second position which illustratively serves to move one or more anvils thereby mechanically clamping the fiber optic cable proximate to the optical fiber stub.
US08801294B2 Bearing device for a wheel
A bearing device for a wheel is capable of suppressing radial play and allowing firm and easy connection between a hub and an outer ring of a constant velocity universal joint. Axially extending projections are provided on a shaft portion of a joint outer ring, and the shaft portion is press-fitted into a hole of a hub. Through this press-fitting, recesses held in close fit-engagement with the projections are formed by the projections in an inner diameter surface of the hub, forming a recess/projection fit-engagement structure in which the projections and the recesses are held in close contact with each other over an entire fit-engagement region thereof. A press-fitting margin (Δd) of the projections with respect to the hub and a height (h) of the projections are set to the following range: 0.3<Δd/2h<0.86.
US08801292B2 Roller bearing
A roller bearing capable of effectively restraining occurrence of smearing or the like is provided. A cylindrical roller bearing includes: an outer ring having an outer ring raceway surface; an inner ring having an inner ring raceway surface that faces the outer ring raceway surface; and a plurality of cylindrical rollers rollably disposed between the outer ring raceway surface and the inner ring raceway surface. The inner ring raceway surface of the inner ring is provided with a manganese phosphate coating, and a rolling contact surface of each cylindrical roller is provided with a diamond-like carbon coating.
US08801290B2 Foil journal bearing applicable to high speed machining center
A foil journal bearing applicable to high speed machining and grinding machines for machining microscopic features. A single foil is secured to and supported by a hollow, generally cylindrical, housing. The foil has a length substantially equal to twice the interior circumference of the housing and a mounting feature, extending across its width, for engagement with a feature of complementary shape in the housing. One portion of the foil has a length approximately equal to one half of the foil length, and comprises a bump foil and a plurality of regions comprising groups of generally uniformly-spaced ridges and flats, the regions being separated by extended flat regions. The other portion of the foil has a length approximately equal to one half of the foil length, and comprises the top foil and is generally flat and overlies the bump foil which overlies the interior of the housing.
US08801286B2 Storage bag
A storage bag that can maintain compactness, into which an object can be easily inserted and stored, and whose shape can be changed after the object is stored in the storage bag. A storage bag including a cylindrical body and a bottom at one end of the body, wherein the bottom closes one end of the body, the other open end of the body is formed as a storage opening, and the inside space of the storage bag is formed as a storage space capable of storing an object, and wherein the body is made of fabric in which fibers are woven in perpendicular directions, and the fiber directions A and B in the fabric are inclined with respect to the circumferential direction and the lengthwise direction of the body.
US08801284B2 Fluid dispenser
A fluid dispenser comprising: a flexible pouch (1) that comprises two flexible sheets (11, 12) that define between them a fluid reservoir (10) and an opening (14); and a stopper-and-dispenser member (2) that is mounted in stationary, permanent, and leaktight manner in the opening (14) of the pouch (1), the stopper member (2) including a body (3) that defines a dispenser orifice (34) and two sealing zones (31c, 31d), respectively for the two flexible sheets (11, 12) of the pouch (1); the dispenser being characterized in that the stopper-and-dispenser member (2) further includes a closure lid (4) for closing the dispenser orifice (34), the lid (4) being hinged (43) on the body (3) in such a manner as to pivot between a closed position and an open position.
US08801282B2 Constructions for zero-heat-flux, deep tissue temperature measurement devices
The invention pertains to flexible devices used for zero-heat-flux, deep tissue temperature measurement, especially to disposable temperature measurement devices. Such a device is constituted of a flexible substrate. An electrical circuit is disposed on a side of the substrate. The electrical circuit includes first and second thermal sensors disposed, respectively, on first and second substrate layers. A heater trace is disposed on the first substrate layer with the first thermal sensor. The first and second substrate layers are separated by a flexible layer of insulation disposed between the first and second substrate layers. The heater trace defines a heater with a central portion that operates with a first power density and a peripheral portion around the central portion that operates with a second power density greater than the first power density.
US08801274B2 Time-related temperature variation transducer, electronic chip incorporating this transducer and method of fabrication of this chip
A transducer for transducing time-related temperature variations into a difference in potentials includes an upper conductive electrode designed to be exposed to a time-related temperature variation to be measured, a lower conductive electrode, and at least one layer of pyroelectric material based on a III-V nitride directly interposed between the upper and lower conductive electrodes to generate, between the upper and lower conductive electrodes, a difference in potentials corresponding to the temperature variation even in the absence of external mechanical stress.
US08801267B2 Static mixer for an exhaust gas system of an internal combustion engine
A static mixer for an exhaust gas system of an internal combustion engine with which at least two different fluid streams are mixed almost homogeneously after a short mixing distance, and with which back-flow effects and pressure losses are avoided, to the greatest possible extent. Due to the placement of flow guide devices, the inclined front sections of which are disposed alternately facing in different directions, and by the configuration and placement of the fluid passage spaces, which are delimited by guide elements, intensive and homogeneous mixing of two different fluid streams is achieved, while avoiding turbulent flows and pressure losses. Mixing of the fluid streams is supported by guide vanes that are disposed on the flow guide elements in the front region of the central center element, and on a frame that delimits the inclined sections of the flow guide elements.
US08801265B2 Machine and method for homogenizing a bitumen-based mixture with polymer granules
There is described a machine for homogenizing a bitumen-based mixture with polymer granules. The machine includes an outer container and a cylindrical sleeve, which is housed within the outer container and is provided with a perforated side wall, on which a plurality of through apertures is obtained, each of the holes comprising a sharp cutting edge. The machine further includes a homogenizer assembly, which is mounted so as to axially rotate within the sleeve in order to rotate about a vertical axis, and is configured so as to displace, during its rotation, at least part of the bitumen-based mixture and the polymer granules along a direction which is substantially tangential to the inner surface of the perforated side wall of the sleeve so as to induce the polymer granules to impact against the sharp cutting edge of the through apertures.
US08801262B2 Spread illuminating apparatus
A spread illuminating apparatus includes: a light guide plate having protrusions on side surfaces of the light guide plate, a housing frame having recesses in which the protrusions of the light guide plate are introduced, a reflecting sheet arranged on a bottom surface side opposing an emitting surface of the light guide plate, and a fixation device for fixing the reflecting sheet to a bottom surface of the housing frame. The recesses of the housing frame include a first recess which is formed to be opened at a bottom surface side and is at least partially covered by the fixation device, and each of the protrusions to be arranged at the first recess has an opposing surface that opposes the fixation device, and the opposing surface is provided with clearance relative to the fixation device.
US08801258B2 Backlight module
The present invention provides a backlight module, which includes a backplane, a reflector plate arranged inside the backplane, a light guide plate arranged on the reflector plate, an optic film assembly arranged above the light guide plate, a backlight source arranged inside the backplane and corresponding to the light guide plate, a mold frame mounted to the backplane, and a resilient block wall that is arranged above the backlight source and a light incidence end of the light guide plate and is fixed to the mold frame by means of force-fitting, bonding, or snap fitting. The resilient block wall has a bottom face and a side face perpendicular to the bottom face. The bottom face and the side face are set in tight engagement with an upper surface of the light guide plate and the backlight source.
US08801257B2 Edge light type planar light source device and liquid crystal display device
Provided is an edge light type planar light source device capable of preventing luminance unevenness. An edge light type planar light source device (4) includes a light guide plate (7) emitting light entering from an end face (74) from a front face, a linear light source unit (11) including LED elements (111) including light emitting surfaces (113) and an LED substrate (112) where the elements are aligned, the surfaces opposed to the end face, a floor face (91) where the plate is disposed, and a locking member (10) erecting on the floor face and inserted in a peripheral portion of the plate from a back face toward the front face, wherein some elements are disposed in a vicinity of the locking member and are disposed on the substrate such that the surfaces are inclined toward the end face to gather the light at the rear of the locking member.
US08801253B2 Illumination device
Illumination devices include a light source including a substantially planar light-emitting surface and an optical rod or optical taper disposed proximate to the substantially planar light-emitting surface to optically couple the optical rod and the substantially planar light-emitting surface.
US08801252B2 Multi-functional projector lamp shield and multi-functional projector embodying such a shield
Featured is a multi-functional light shielding plate to establish a desired light distribution pattern to light traveling in an illumination direction that is received from at least one of a light source or a reflector. Such a light shielding plate includes a light shielding portion that is selectively configurable to be one of light transmissive or a light blocker and also includes a support mechanism that supports the light shielding portion so as to maintain the light shielding portion in fixed relation with respect to the light source. When configured as a light blocker, the light shielding portion is configured so that light traveling in the illumination direction is substantially blocked from passing through the light shielding portion and when configured so as to be transmissive, the light shielding portion is configured so that said light traveling in the illumination direction passes substantially through the light shielding plate.
US08801243B2 Vehicle interior illumination lamp
A vehicle interior illumination lamp 11 is formed by a function portion 12 and a design portion 13. Retaining claws 15 are formed on side surfaces of a base housing 41 of the design portion 13. Operating plates 33 are formed at a housing 21 of the function portion 12, and each operating plate 33 has retaining portions 34 with which retaining claws 51 on the design portion 13 (which can be fitted into the function portion 12) can be retainingly engaged, respectively. The operating plates 33 are pressed from the inside of a bulb receiving chamber 44 of the design portion 13 to be elastically deformed, thereby releasing the retaining engagement of the retaining portions 34 with the retaining claws 51.
US08801239B2 Light emitting diode luminaires and applications thereof
The present invention relates to luminaires and, in particular, to luminaires comprising light emitting diodes. In one embodiment, the present invention provides a luminaire comprising at least one light emitting diode, a reflector offset from the centerline of the luminaire and a collimator adapted to direct light from the least one light emitting diode along an axis offset from the vertical axis of the light emitting diode.
US08801237B2 Modular LED lighting apparatus
Modular LED light fixture units are interconnected together in articulated fashion with each modular unit including a base component and a cover component. First and second of the base components each include a cylindrical recess formed at a first end with a vertical boss positioned therein, the vertical boss having a threaded opening therein and an extension member formed at a second, opposite end and positioned within first and second outer fingers. The hole in the extension member of the first base component and the boss of the second base component are so positioned, shaped, and dimensioned that a fastener is insertable through the hole in the extension member of the first base component and into the boss of the second base component to thereby pivotally interconnect the first and second base components.
US08801236B2 Lamp
A lamp including a first case, a second case, a lamp bottom and a pair of friction units is provided. The second case has a first sidewall and a second sidewall perpendicularly to the first sidewall. The first sidewall has a first positioning portion extending along a normal direction to the first sidewall, and the second case is detachably assembled with the first case to form a case assembly having a first opening. The lamp bottom is embedded into the first opening. The lamp bottom has a second opening and a second positioning portion, wherein the second positioning portion is located on the path of the first positioning portion when the case assembly rotates relative to the lamp bottom. The friction units are disposed at opposing sides of the first opening and contact a portion of the lamp bottom embedded into the first opening.
US08801235B2 Lighting assembly
A lighting assembly for illuminating an area is disclosed. The assembly includes a housing and at least one light socket disposed within the housing. The light socket is configured to receive at least one light source to emit light therefrom. The assembly also includes a reflective body disposed about the at least one light socket for uniformly disbursing the light, emitted from the light source, out of the lighting assembly. The reflective body includes an array of first reflectors and an array of second reflectors, each disposed about a central axis. Adjacent first reflectors are in an obtuse angular relationship with one another. Each of the second reflectors include a left face and a right face. A reflex angle is formed between the left and right faces of the second reflectors. Each of the adjacent second reflectors are in an obtuse angular relationship with one another.
US08801233B2 Optical arrangement for a solid-state lighting system
An optical arrangement and a solid-state lighting system comprise an optical element having at least one lens where the lens has a faceted surface defining a plurality of facets. An LED light source comprises a plurality of LED chips and is arranged relative to the faceted surface such that the plurality of facets are disposed asymmetrically relative to the plurality of chips such that mixing of light from the plurality of LED chips occurs via the surface.
US08801232B2 Light emitting device package and display device therewith
An embodiment discloses a light emitting device package including a first lead frame and a second lead frame disposed spaced from each other, a light emitting device disposed on the first lead frame, and a reflective sidewall disposed on the first lead frame and the second lead frame to surround the light emitting device, wherein a portion of the reflective sidewall has a height higher than the other portion of the reflective sidewall.
US08801231B2 Optical semiconductor lighting apparatus
An optical semiconductor lighting apparatus including a housing with a first end portion and a second end portion that is open, a light source module disposed in the housing, a fan disposed adjacent to the light source module in the housing, the fan rotating in a first direction to blow air toward the light source module, and a reflector disposed adjacent to the second end portion of the housing, the reflector enhancing an illumination scope. A moving path, in which at least a portion of the air drawn into the housing by the fan externally flows through the light source module, is formed in the housing.
US08801229B2 Illuminating device capable of waterproof function and heat-dissipating function
An illuminating device includes a case, a heat sink block, an LED array, two waterproof plastic sheets and two covers. The case has a fluid inlet, a fluid outlet and two partition grooves. The heat sink block has a carrying platform and a fluid channel. The fluid channel is conformally disposed in the partition grooves and communicated with the fluid inlet and the fluid outlet. The LED array is located on the carrying platform. The waterproof plastic sheets respectively overlay the fluid inlet and the fluid outlet. The waterproof plastic sheets have a first opening communicated with the fluid channel. The covers respectively overlay the waterproof plastic sheet and a part of the case and have a second opening corresponding to the first opening. A fluid flows through the fluid channel via the second openings and the first openings so as to discharge heat from the LED array.
US08801227B1 Illuminated tree top ornament apparatus
A tree top ornament with one or an array of lights, with an attachment mechanism for releasable attachment to the top branch or trunk of artificial and natural trees. The lights are connected to a sleeve designed to fit over the top vertical branch of the tree, but which is supported by a rigid conduit that clamps to the tree branch some distance below the top, so that the top of the branch does not itself bear any of the tree top ornament's weight. The user may selectively attach a variety of clear and semi clear acrylic or glass ornamental tree toppers for illumination by the lights.
US08801224B2 LED illumination device
The present invention provides an LED illumination device including a base, at least one flexible circuit board and a plurality of LEDs. The at least one flexible circuit board is used for covering the base. The LEDs are mounted on the flexible circuit board. The present invention utilizes a flexible circuit board that can conform to the base having a 360 degree curved surface and a 3D solid structure to efficiently change the viewing angle of the LEDs so as to provide 360 degree viewing angle. Furthermore, a single flexible circuit board can be utilized to cover the base to provide a 360 degree viewing angle. Therefore, the LED illumination device of the present invention can reduce manufacturing cost and simplify the manufacturing process.
US08801218B2 Lighting device capable of emitting light with a wide angle
A lighting device including: a light-emitting device unit including one or more light-emitting devices; a first reflector which faces the light-emitting device unit and reflects light emitted from the light-emitting device unit; and a second reflector which faces the first reflector and reflects light reflected by the first reflector.
US08801217B2 Recessed light having a base body and a dome-shaped reflector
The invention relates to a recessed light having a base body for holding a light source and a dome-shaped reflector which can be detachably fastened to the base body by means of a connecting element. The connecting element is designed such that an optical element for influencing the emission of light is accommodated and fixed when the base body and the reflector are fitted together.
US08801216B2 Lens assembly
In one example implementation, a lens assembly is provided that includes a substantially rigid lens, one or more lighting elements, and a lens cover that cooperates with the substantially rigid lens to at least partly define an enclosure within which the one or more lighting elements are disposed, wherein the lens cover is substantially non-transparent.
US08801213B2 Lighting device having first and second organic electroluminescence element modules
A lighting device includes a device body adapted to be installed on a surface of a room and first organic electroluminescence element modules including organic electroluminescence elements, the first electroluminescence element modules being held in the device body with light-emitting surfaces of the electroluminescence elements facing toward the surface of the room when the device body is installed on the surface of the room. The lighting device further includes a light-transmitting protection cover configured to cover the light-emitting surfaces of the first organic electroluminescence element modules.
US08801211B2 Lamp casing structure
The present invention discloses a lamp casing structure that can be assembled and installed easily and applicable for different installation methods. The lamp casing structure comprises a plurality of frame strips coupled to one another and disposed around a first transparent cover, a plurality of fasteners disposed at each frame strip and inserted into latch portions of the frame strip and the first transparent cover respectively, so that the lamp casing structure can be assembled and installed simply by a latching step, and the lamp casing structure can be installed on a wall or a ceiling, or embedded into grids of a light steel frame.
US08801203B2 Drive for a component to be adjusted
A drive for a component to be adjusted, in particular for an adjustable automotive vehicle mirror, having a housing which can be mounted on a stationary structure for receiving drive elements, and having an element which encompasses the housing at least partially and is connected to a carrier for the component. The encompassing element with the carrier is disposed pivotably relative to the housing and means for elastic pretension between housing and encompassing element are provided. The means for elastic pretension have a compensating element which is disposed about a central axis of the housing. The compensating element is moveable axially under the effect of a spring force in order to exert a pressure on the carrier and hence on the element encompassing the housing.
US08801201B2 Dual sided mirror book imaging devices and methods
Devices, systems, and methods for facilitating the imaging of books are presented. A first transparent plate and a second transparent plate may be positioned at approximately a 45 degree angle to the first transparent plate. A dual-sided mirror may be configured to be positioned substantially parallel with the first transparent plate and to be positioned substantially parallel with the second transparent plate. The first side of the dual-sided mirror may be configured to reflect a first image of a first page of a book, the first image being received by the dual-sided mirror through the first transparent plate. The second side of the dual-sided mirror may be configured to reflect a second image of a second page of the book, the second image being received by the dual-sided mirror through the second transparent plate.
US08801199B2 Reflex reflector with integrated accent piece
A reflex reflector can include a base having a portion covered with a metallic coating and a portion that is not covered with a metallic coating. A reflector lens can be mounted on only the portion without the metallic coating. The portion of the base with the metallic coating remains exposed and serves as an accent piece. The reflex reflector can be mounted in a recess provided in a bumper cover for a vehicle.
US08801195B2 Projector having a light shield unit with a countoured leading edge
In at least one embodiment of the disclosure, a projector includes a light shield unit that shields a portion of a light emitted from a light source. The light shield unit is driven by a drive mechanism and rotates around a predetermined rotation axis to change a size of a light shield area. The light shield unit includes a leading edge having a contour defined by a plurality of first edges and a second edge disposed between the first edges. The second edge configured so as to be shifted toward the light source and away from the first edges during rotation of the light shield unit.
US08801194B2 Projector with illumination control based on fixation degree
A projector for projecting an image light including: a laser light source for emitting a laser beam; a light modulator for modulating the laser beam to generate the image light; a projection portion for projecting the image light; a detector for detecting a fixation degree of the projector; and a controller for controlling the power of the image light on the basis of the fixation degree.
US08801191B2 Projecting onto an upper surface of a body of water
A projection system for projecting light such as images or content upon a liquid surface such as a lake or pool surface. The system includes an agitation assembly selectively operable to agitate a portion of the upper surface of liquid to form a projection screen. The system includes a projector assembly projecting or focusing light onto the projection screen on the upper surface of the liquid. The liquid is translucent to light, but the projection screen on the upper surface reflects a portion of the projected light due to the agitation. The agitation assembly may include an aeration system with a distribution manifold and is positioned below the liquid surface and has outlets discharging gas into the liquid such that air bubbles for the screen. The manifold outlets may be provided at two or more depths, whereby two or more portions of the projection screen are generated at differing times.
US08801186B2 System and method of scan controlled illumination of structures within an eye
There is provided a system, apparatus and methods for enhancing the illumination of structures of the eye using predetermined scan patterns of an illuminating light beam. The systems, apparatus and methods further provide for obtaining enhanced single images of multiple structures of the eye.
US08801180B2 Ophthalmic tomographic imager with corneo-retinal image analysis
An optical image measuring device 1 splits low-coherence light L0 into signal light LS and reference light LR, and splits an optical path of the reference light LR into two optical paths having different optical path lengths to split the reference light LR into two reference lights LRa, LRb. Furthermore, the optical image measuring device 1 makes the reference lights LRa, LRb interfere with the signal light LS propagated through an eye E, generates an interference light LC reflecting a morphology in each of two depth positions (fundus oculi Ef and cornea Ec) of an eye E, and detects the interference light LC to generate a detection signal. Then, the optical image measuring device 1 forms a fundus oculi tomographic image and a cornea tomographic image based on the detection signals, and analyzes the tomographic images to obtain a distance between the cornea and retina of the eye E.
US08801179B2 Ophthalmologic photographing apparatus
An ophthalmologic photographing apparatus includes a photographing mode selection unit configured to select one of a plurality of photographing modes respectively corresponding to different photographing conditions, an imaging unit configured to capture an image of a subject's eye, an original image data generation unit configured to process electronic data of the image captured by the imaging unit according to the selected photographing mode and to generate a plurality of original image data differing from one another in spatial resolution and gradation resolution, and an image processing unit configured to generate a electronic image for diagnosis, which has similar gradation resolution to that of each of the plurality of original image data generated by the original image data generation unit.
US08801177B2 Electrically controllable optical component comprising an array of cells
An electrically controllable optical component (10) comprises a transparent array of cells (3) and two transparent electrodes (5a, 5b) which are parallel and lying opposite each other on either side of the array of cells. Certain of the cells located between the two electrodes contain different electroactive materials, so that said cells exhibit different respective variations in at least one optical quantity in response to an electrical signal applied to the electrodes. An optical function is thus temporarily conferred on the component, resulting from gradients in the optical quantity that are formed parallel to the surface of the component.
US08801173B2 Sheet-discharge device and image recording apparatus equipped with the sheet-discharge device
A sheet-discharge device, including: a sheet-discharge mechanism having a discharge opening from which a sheet is discharged in a discharge direction; a stopper having a hitting portion against which a leading edge, in the discharge direction, of the discharged sheet hits, so that the sheet is bounced back; a discharge tray having a support surface on which the sheet bounced back by the stopper is supported; and a sheet-discharge controller configured to control the sheet-discharge mechanism such that the discharged sheet flies above the support surface, wherein the hitting portion is provided at a position where a one-side portion of the leading edge first hits the hitting portion, the one-side portion of the leading edge being nearer to a one-side end of the sheet than a center of the leading edge in an orthogonal direction parallel to a horizontal plane and orthogonal to the discharge direction.
US08801167B2 Inkjet recording apparatus, method for inkjet recording, and ink
An inkjet recording apparatus including an ink; and an ink discharging head configured to discharge the ink, wherein the ink discharging head is provided with a nozzle having a silicone-containing water-repellent film on a surface thereof on which the ink contacts, wherein the ink contains a colorant; water; and a water soluble organic solvent, wherein the colorant contains a carbon black partially coated with a resin, and wherein the ink meets the following expressions (1) and (2): 1.0×104
US08801165B2 Printing ink, apparatus and method
The present invention provides an inkjet ink comprising at least 30% by weight of organic solvent based on the total weight of the ink, a radiation curable material, a photoinitiator and optionally a colorant. The invention also provides an apparatus for printing the ink wherein the apparatus comprises at least one printhead, a means for evaporating solvent from the printed ink and a source of actinic radiation. Furthermore, the invention provides a method of inkjet printing comprising i) inkjet printing the inkjet ink as defined above on to a substrate; ii) evaporating at least a portion of the solvent from the printed ink; and iii) exposing the printed ink to actinic radiation to cure the radiation curable material.
US08801161B2 Liquid cartridge, image recording device, and substrate
A liquid cartridge includes a liquid reservoir, a liquid flow path that selectively places the reservoir in fluid communication with an exterior of the cartridge, a sensor that outputs a signal relative to a position of an object in the liquid flow path, a storage that stores data therein, and a plurality of terminals. The plurality of terminals includes a sensor terminal connected to the sensor, a power terminal connected to at least one of the sensor and the storage, and that receives power, and a data terminal connected to the storage. A distance between a first portion of the power terminal and at least a portion of the data terminal is greater than a distance between a second portion of the power terminal and at least a portion of the sensor terminal.
US08801159B2 Ink-jet recording apparatus
An ink-jet recording apparatus may include a recording head comprising an ejection surface, a first wall configured to oppose the ejection surface, and a second wall configured to enclose surroundings of the ejection surface. The ink-jet recording apparatus may include a first wall moving unit which is configured to move the first wall between a first position and a second position. The ink-jet recording apparatus may include a second wall moving unit which is configured to move the second wall between a third position and a fourth position. An attitude of the first wall positioned at the second position and an attitude of the first wall at the first position are different. The first wall positioned at the first position and the second wall positioned at the third position form a closed space which covers the ejection port.
US08801156B2 Flow passage assembly and method for manufacturing flow passage assembly, inkjet recording head, and recording apparatus
A method for manufacturing a flow passage assembly includes forming a first flow passage in a first joint interface formed by welding a first surface of a first flow passage forming member to a first surface of a second flow passage forming member using an ultrasonic welding process, and forming, after the first flow passage is formed, a second flow passage in a second joint interface formed by welding a first surface of a third flow passage forming member to one of a second surface of the first flow passage forming member and a second surface of the second flow passage forming member using an ultrasonic welding process. A total area of weld portions used when the first flow passage is formed is greater than a total area of weld portions used when the second flow passage is formed.
US08801154B2 Liquid ejection head and liquid ejection apparatus
A liquid ejection head includes a communication plate in which a first liquid chamber that communicate with a plurality of pressure chambers is formed, wherein a plurality of the first liquid chambers separated from each other are provided in the first direction and the first liquid chamber communicates with the pressure chamber through an opening in the thickness direction of the communication plate.
US08801152B2 Piezoelectric element, piezoelectric actuator, liquid ejecting head, liquid ejecting apparatus, and method for producing piezoelectric element
A piezoelectric element includes a substrate; a first conductive layer disposed on or above the substrate; a piezoelectric layer covering a top and a side of the first conductive layer; a relaxing layer disposed on or above the piezoelectric layer and along an edge of a top surface of the piezoelectric layer; and a second conductive layer covering at least the relaxing layer and the piezoelectric layer.
US08801149B2 Method of manufacturing flow path member, flow path member, liquid ejecting head and liquid ejecting apparatus
A method of manufacturing a flow path member includes inserting the first flow path member into each concave portion of the second flow path member and welding the first flow path member and the second flow path member in a circumferential direction of a region where the first flow path and the second flow path communicates each other; and providing two or more injecting portions which are provided with a gap wider than a gap between a wall surface of the concave portion which faces the first flow path member and a circumference surface of the first flow path member inserted into each concave portion which faces the wall surface, communicate with each concave portion, and are opened to the same side as the concave portion to have a concave shape to each concave portion in the second flow path member.
US08801147B2 Inkjet head and inkjet recording apparatus
According to one embodiment, an inkjet head includes a substrate, a nozzle plate, and an actuator incorporated in the nozzle plate. The nozzle plate includes a nozzle provided to communicate with an ink pressure chamber, and a vibrating plate exposed to the ink pressure chamber. The actuator displaces the vibrating plate in the thickness direction to pressurize ink in the ink pressure chamber via the vibrating plate and eject the ink from the nozzle. The ink pressure chamber has a first dimension in the thickness direction of the substrate and a second dimension in a direction orthogonal to the thickness direction of the substrate. The first dimension is larger than the second dimension.
US08801144B2 Inkjet recording device
An inkjet recording device is provided, which includes a recording head, a cleaning unit and a wiper cap member. The recording head includes a nozzle face on which an ink-injecting nozzle is formed. The cleaning unit includes a wiper case and a wiper member. The wiper case has a wiper accommodating portion and a wiper opening. The wiper member is configured to be accommodated in the wiper accommodating portion, protrude out of the wiper accommodating portion via the wiper opening and move relatively to the recording head to clean the recording head. The wiper cap member shuts the wiper opening of the wiper case.
US08801140B2 In situ calibration of multiple printheads to reference ink targets
A method for calibrating in situ a plurality of printheads in an imaging device has been developed. Firing signals operate a plurality of printheads to form ink test patterns on an image receiving member. Reflectance measurements of light reflected from the test patterns and optical density measurements for a portion of the patterns formed by only one printhead in the plurality of printheads are used to adjust the firing signals and enable the printheads to print within a predetermined range about an average reflectance value and a predetermined optical density.
US08801138B2 Liquid ejection apparatus having fan for cooling the liquid ejecting head
A liquid ejection apparatus includes a liquid ejecting head that ejects a liquid onto a target; a carriage that is moved to scan in a direction perpendicular to a transportation direction of the target with the liquid ejecting head being mounted on the carriage; a fan that blows gas toward a scanning area of the carriage; and a partition member that is positioned so as to separate the scanning area of the carriage from the fan and block the gas blown from the fan toward the scanning area of the carriage.
US08801136B2 Flat field and density correction in printing systems
A density variation correction method for a printing system includes printheads in at least one linehead printing a test block pattern on a print media. A density variation trace is produced for each printed test block in the test block patterns by capturing an image of each test block and averaging pixel data in a transport direction. The density variation traces associated with a known print density represented in the test block pattern are compared with a respective reference density value. A determination is made as to whether there is a difference between each density variation trace and the respective reference density value. If there is a difference, the density variation trace is adjusted to match the reference density value. The method can be repeated for all of the known print densities represented in the test block pattern and for all of the lineheads in the printing system.
US08801133B2 Image forming apparatus and image forming method
An image forming apparatus includes: a head unit that ejects ink; and a control unit that creates pixel data showing the amount of the ink ejected on predetermined pixels, and ejects metallic ink containing metallic particles from the head units such that the amount of the metallic ink is smaller than the amount of the metallic ink shown by the pixel data in a portion of the pixel inside the pixels on the outline of a metallic image formed by the ejected metallic ink and such that the amount of the eject ink per area is larger than the amount of the metallic ink at the inside pixels in the pixels on the outline, on the basis of the pixel data.
US08801132B2 Inkjet printer, printing method, method for producing print deliverable, and print deliverable
(Problem to be Solved)To appropriately restrain occurrence of striped variation and to appropriately enhance image quality of a printed result.(Solution)An inkjet printer in which multi-gradation printing is performed in an inkjet method includes an ejection control section for controlling ejection of ink droplets by supplying an ejection control signal to a nozzle for controlling ejection of the ink droplets from the nozzle of an inkjet head. The inkjet head forms lines of ink dots juxtaposed in a line direction so that the lines are juxtaposed in a direction perpendicular to the line direction. In a case that a nozzle which forms a line is the abnormal nozzle, an ejection control signal corresponding to an ink dot size which is different from a case of the normal nozzle is supplied as the ejection control signal corresponding to a part of the dots juxtaposed in the line, thereby an average value in the line of ejection errors is brought close to zero.
US08801131B2 Printing device
A printing device having a turntable for turning a mounted printing object so that its printed face is directed upward, a printing head having a plurality of nozzles for spouting inks and being able to move toward a center of rotation of the printing object from outside the rotation of the printed face, and a controller provided for controlling a moving speed of the printing head, a rotating speed of the turntable, and spouting of the inks by the plurality of the nozzles, to perform a controlling operation in a manner such that a printing is spirally applied onto the printed face of the printing object by permitting the printing object mounted on the turntable to be rotated and by permitting the printing head to continuously move while allowing the plurality of the nozzles to spout therefrom the inks.
US08801129B2 Method of adjusting drop volume
A method for operating a jetting module includes applying to a drop forming mechanism a sequence of drop formation waveforms in which a small-drop waveform applied after another identical small-drop waveform causes a small drop of volume Vs to be formed; applying a large-drop waveform after another identical large-drop waveform causes a large drop of volume VL to be formed, and applying a large-drop waveform adjacent to a small-drop waveform can be done in a way that produces a large drop having a volume VL2, where VL2 is different than VL and a small drop of volume VS2, where VS2 is different than Vs.
US08801128B2 Device and method for driving liquid discharge head, liquid discharge apparatus, and ink-jet apparatus
A basic driving waveform which includes a plurality of jet pulses and a non-jet pulse just before the last jet pulse in one recording period is generated. A part of the pulses is removed from the basic driving waveform by maintaining at least the last jet pulse, and a driving signal that is applied to a discharge energy generation element is generated. In the case of using only the last jet pulse among the plurality of jet pulses is used for the jet, a first driving signal that includes the non-jet pulse just before the last jet pulse is generated. In the case of joining the last jet pulse and at least another jet pulse among the plurality of jet pulses to use the pulses for the jet, a second driving signal that is configured to remove the non-jet pulse is generated.
US08801126B2 Liquid detection system, liquid container, mounting member, and liquid supply system
A liquid chamber receives liquid flows from a liquid receiving unit. A first urging member urges a deforming portion of the liquid chamber. A lever provided on the liquid container side increases the displacement of the deforming portion. A sensor detects the displacement. A transmitting member transmits the increased displacement to the sensor. A second urging member provided on a liquid consuming apparatus side urges the transmitting member. When the liquid container is installed in the liquid consuming apparatus, the transmitting member comes in contact with the lever member due to the urging force of the second urging member, and the lever member is pushed against the deforming portion. In this manner, it is possible to divide the liquid detection system into the liquid consuming apparatus side and the liquid container side.
US08801123B2 Furniture fitting for fastening a front panel
A furniture fitting for attaching a front panel to a drawer frame includes a fastening device for the front panel that is associated with the drawer frame, and a connecting element that can be mounted on the front panel. The connecting element includes mounting elements, in particular dowels, for fastening to the front panel, and the connecting element can be fastened to the fastening device in a detachable and in particular position-adjustable manner. The connecting element includes a first part and a second part arranged at a distance from the first part in the mounting position, and the first part of the connecting element can be connected to the front panel by at least two mounting elements and the second part of the connecting element can be connected to the front panel by at least two further mounting elements.
US08801115B2 Apparatus for converting a wheeled vehicle to a tracked vehicle
The invention relates to a self-propelled, wheeled vehicle that may be converted into a multi-track self-propelled vehicle using one or more track assemblies. Each track assembly includes a carriage with a main frame that support forward and rearward idler wheels and a plurality of centrally located, inner bogey wheels, and an outrigger beam that supports a plurality of centrally located, outer bogey wheels. One of the idler wheels is movably connected to the main frame and is movable by an actuator. The carriage is removably connected to a spindle of a vehicle by an attachment assembly. The attachment assembly includes a first or lower section and a second or upper section that generally encircle a portion of the spindle housing, and which are connected thereto by a plurality of fastening elements. A sprocket is operatively connected to a wheel hub of the spindle either directly or indirectly by way of a spacer element. A flexible endless track is entrained about the idler wheels, the bogey wheels and the sprocket.
US08801114B2 Braking force distribution control device
A signal indicating an estimated body deceleration and a deceleration indicated by a detection signal from a G sensor are pass through first and second filters having different filter constants. Based on a resulting difference in response speeds thereof, it is determined whether sudden braking, i.e., quick depression, is being performed. If quick depression is determined, then even if an upper limit of a W/C pressure to rear wheels is set in order to prevent rear wheel locking precedent to front wheel locking, the W/C pressure is increased so as to exceed such an upper limit. Thus, a greater deceleration can be achieved than when the W/C pressure at the set upper limit is generated.
US08801113B2 Brake apparatus
A brake apparatus including a housing, a piston body disposed within each of a pair of closed-ended bores formed in the housing, a first elastic member that biases the piston body toward a closed end of the respective bores, a fluid passage opened to the closed end of the respective bores, a pressure regulating valve disposed in the fluid passage, and a rotary gear pump disposed in a region between the pressure regulating valve disposed in the fluid passage opened to the closed end of one of the bores and the pressure regulating valve disposed in the fluid passage opened to the closed end of the other of the bores. The fluid passages are formed to be offset from respective central axes of the piston bodies in such a direction that the fluid passages are spaced apart from each other.
US08801112B2 Brake device
A brake device includes: a mechanical pressure regulating part having a high-pressure port, a low-pressure port, a pilot pressure input port, and an output port which outputs fluid pressure corresponding to the pressure supplied to the pilot pressure input port by fluid pressures supplied to both of the high- and low-pressure ports, to a chamber for a master piston; a high-pressure source connected to the high-pressure port and the pilot pressure input port; a low-pressure source connected to the low-pressure port and the pilot pressure input port; and an electrically-operated pilot pressure generating part which includes control valves for controlling flows of the brake fluid between the high-pressure source and the pilot pressure input port, and between the low-pressure source and the pilot pressure input port, respectively, and which outputs desired fluid pressure to the pilot pressure input port by controlling flow of the brake fluid with control valves.
US08801111B2 Vehicle air braking system
A vehicle air braking system having a source of fluid under pressure (1), an air dryer (A) downstream of the source (1), and an air consumer circuit (2) downstream of the air dryer (A), the system being operable to suspend the source (1) on demand to permit backflow of air under pressure from the air consumer circuit (2) through the air dryer (A) to a drain valve (B), the system including a regeneration valve (D), and a command valve (C) having an inlet connected to the air consumer circuit (2), and a supply outlet operably connected to the drain valve (B), wherein the regeneration valve (D) is operable to permit regeneration backflow in response to connection of the inlet and supply outlets of the command valve (C).
US08801103B2 Rear vehicle seat automatic head rest system
An extendible and retractable head rest system for a motor vehicle seat has a head rest coupled to a linkage and an actuator coupled to the linkage. The linkage includes an offset drive link that upon the actuator being actuated to extend the head rest system to an operative position, the linkage moves the head rest up and forward and upon the actuator being actuated to retract the head rest system to an inoperative position, the linkage moves the head rest back and down. In an aspect, the linkage kneels when the head rest reaches an upper position to move the head rest to a forward position.
US08801099B2 Safety seat suspended on a strap framework
Safety seat for land vehicles, aircraft and watercraft, including a strap framework for holding a sitting portion and comprising vertically extending support straps anchored to a vehicle and embodied as loops stretching between vehicle-mounted anchors above and below the sitting portion, which is secured to a support frame provided with two braces oriented in the direction of extension of the support straps. For securement of the support frame to the strap framework, a front strap or rear strap of each support strap loop is divided into two strap sections, one extending between the support frame and an anchor disposed above the sitting portion, and the other extending between the support frame and an anchor disposed below the sitting portion. Ends of the strap sections associated with the support frame are retained at the braces of the support frame and hold the support frame under tension in a vertical orientation.
US08801098B1 Motorized chair system for individuals with limited motor function
A motorized chair system for promoting movement, balance, and vestibular processing and integration. The chair system features a chair component comprising a back support portion disposed atop a seat portion. The back support portion is formed from a first side panel, a middle panel, and a second side panel connected together, wherein rigid intersections are formed between the side panels and middle panel. A rocking component is positioned below the chair component. The rocking component is shaped to allow the chair component to rock. A motor system is operatively connected to a piston, the piston being mounted to a ground surface. The motor system functions to automatically rock the chair component forwardly and backwardly by pushing against the piston to pivot the system in a forward motion. A control button is operatively connected to the motor system. The control button functions to turn the motor system on and off.
US08801097B2 Anchor system for juvenile vehicle seat
A juvenile seat assembly is provided for use with a vehicle seat. The assembly includes a juvenile seat for placement on the vehicle seat and a vehicle anchor system. The vehicle anchor system includes an anchor belt adapted to be coupled to a pair of anchor mounts provided in or near the vehicle seat. The anchor belt includes a strap and connectors coupled to the strap and defining a central portion, the connectors adapted to be coupled to one of the anchor mounts.
US08801096B2 Child safety seat with height adjustable harness
A child safety seat has a seat back and a seat harness with a pair of shoulder straps. Each shoulder strap has a strap portion positioned forward of and extending along a front facing side of the seat back. A headrest is coupled to the seat near an upper end of the seat back. The vertical position of the headrest is selectively adjustable relative to the seat back between a raised position and a lowered position. A strap router is provided on the seat back and maintained at a fixed elevation relative to the seat back as the vertical position of the headrest is adjusted and directs the shoulder straps from a back side of the seat back toward the front facing side. The shoulder straps are directed under a bottom of the headrest. By selectively adjusting the vertical position of the headrest, the bottom of the headrest adjusts the vertical position of the shoulder straps on the front facing side of the seat back by increasing or decreasing the useable length of the strap portions.
US08801093B2 Bicycle seat
A bicycle seat has an arrow-shape sitting part with a recess has centered down the length of the sitting part top from the wide rear towards the tapered front. The sitting part consists of a framework, which forms the seat bottom; a core, which forms the seat center part and a seat cover which forms its top. Two feet protrude from the sitting part bottom in the longitudinal axis, one in its rear and other one in its front. Each foot forms a monolithic part together with the seat framework. The foot connects directly to the solid block with the hole perpendicular to the seat axis. A shock absorber is mounted on the solid block hole. A bolt passes through a hole in the shock absorber to fasten light-weight flat shaped strips on both its sides, the strips having a rectangular cross-section. Holes have been made in the strip ends.
US08801091B2 Fan-equipped chair assembly
Fan-equipped chair assemblies having a seat and a backrest. A fan assembly may be associated with a bottom of the backrest and oriented substantially upward toward a top of the backrest. An airflow guide may angle toward the top and away from the bottom of the backrest. A fan assembly may be associated with a rear of the seat and oriented substantially forward toward a front of the seat. An airflow guide may angle toward the front and away from the rear of the seat. An airflow guide may be associated with a bottom side of the seat, and a fan assembly may be attached to the airflow guide such that the airflow guide is located between the bottom side of the seat and the fan assembly. The air flow guide may at least generally taper from near the bottom side of the seat toward the fan assembly.
US08801088B2 Front vehicle body reinforcing structure
A front vehicle body reinforcing structure includes: an upper reinforcing member and a lower reinforcing member attached to an upper portion and a lower portion of the shock absorber housing panel; and a front reinforcing rail and a rear reinforcing rail attached to a front side and a rear side of the shock absorber housing panel in a longitudinal direction of the vehicle, respectively, thereby enhancing strength of a front vehicle body.
US08801086B2 Cabin system
A cabin system to be mounted on a vehicle body includes a driver's seat, an air conditioner body for indoor air conditioning disposed downwardly of the driver's seat, a plurality of support pillars constituting a cabin framework, a ceiling portion, and a main duct having a hollow tubular construction, the main duct forming therein an air passageway for the indoor air conditioning. The main duct includes, at a lower portion thereof, a duct connecting opening to be connected to the air conditioner body and also includes, at a lateral portion thereof, a support pillar engaging face. The main duct is attached through the support pillar engaging face to one of the support pillars along an indoor side peripheral face of the one support pillar. The support pillar engaging face of the main duct and the indoor side peripheral face of the one support pillar have profiles complementary with each other.
US08801079B2 Load actuated baffle
A device for reinforcing, baffling or sealing a vehicle structure that includes hinge structures for allowing the member to be moveable within a cavity and free of any spring effect during movement.
US08801077B2 Gap fairing
A gap fairing for a tractor-trailer. A fairing body is attached to a chassis of the tractor, independently of the cab thereof and within a gap between a cab of the tractor and the trailer. The fairing body has side portions, extending rearwardly from a front portion, adjacent the cab of the tractor, toward the trailer and top portion. A clear panel can be located in at least the side portion of the fairing body located at the passenger side to enable the driver to view the trailer through the rear window of the tractor and the clear panel. A separation space between the front of the fairing body and the cab can be sealed by a sealing element that is at least in part one of resilient and flexible so as to allow relative motion between the fairing body and the cab.
US08801072B2 Vehicular fastening structure
A vehicular fastening structure for fastening a cabin 4 and a chassis frame 6 of a vehicle includes: a mounting bracket 18 provided on one of the cabin 4 and the chassis frame 6; a fastened member 27 provided on the other thereof; a fastening member 26 attached fixedly to the fastened member 27; and a shock absorbing member 39 disposed between the mounting bracket 18 and the fastened member 27, wherein the fastened member 27 is provided with a fixed attachment portion to which the fastening member 26 is fixedly attached and a guiding portion for guiding the fastening member 26 to the fixed attachment portion, and a support portion 32L for supporting the fastening member 26 by coming into contact with the fastening member 26 when the vehicle crashes such that the fastening member 26 deforms in accordance with an impact load input into the chassis frame 6 is provided on a base end portion of the guiding portion.
US08801071B2 Fastening device for a panel element of a motor vehicle body
A fastening device is provided for the releasable fastening of a panel element to the front wall structure of a motor vehicle body, with a brace, which on one end can be fastened with a fastening structure of the panel element and on the other end can be fastened with a fastening structure of the front wall structure. The brace is releasable and positively fastened to at least one of the fastening structures with at least one end section.
US08801070B2 Garnish and mounting structure
Disclosed is a resin garnish attached to a door frame forming the window frame of a vehicle door. The door frame is provided with a frame unit including an attachment unit having an insertion hole, and a weatherstrip fastened to said frame unit using a clip. The clip is inserted through the weatherstrip and the insertion hole to fasten the weatherstrip to the frame unit by engaging with the frame unit. The garnish is provided with a garnish body forming a design surface facing out of the vehicle, and an engaging protrusion unit arranged so as to protrude from the garnish body. In order to attach the garnish to the frame unit, the engaging protrusion unit is configured such that said unit, in a state inserted in the insertion hole, engages with an engaging claw provided on the clip.
US08801062B2 Clamping device
A safety clamping device for clamping onto a first rope portion and retaining a second rope portion. The clamping device comprises a clamping portion and a retaining portion. The clamping portion clamps onto the first rope portion, and comprises first and second clamping members in use hingedly coupled to one another such that the clamping portion is movable between an open configuration suitable for receiving the first rope portion and a clamping configuration suitable for clamping onto the first rope portion. The retaining portion retains the second rope portion relative to the position of the first rope portion, and is coupled to the clamping portion.
US08801058B2 Adjustable modular automotive grille guard assembly
An adjustable, modular grille guard assembly addresses deficiencies of both single-unit grille guard assemblies and conventional modular grille guard assemblies. The adjustable, modular grille guard assembly is stronger and more durable than both conventional modular grille guard assemblies and single-unit grille guard assemblies. Additionally, the adjustable, modular design allows the assembly to fit various vehicles, is conducive to aftermarket exterior modifications, is cost efficient for manufacturers and suppliers, does not require complete removal when work is performed on the front of the vehicle, and allows quick and easy removal/replacement of specific members. Additionally, due to its modular design, the grille guard assembly is cheaper and easier to ship than single-unit assemblies since it may be broken down to fit into smaller containers. The adjustable, modular grille guard assembly is adjustable, provides sufficient strength and durability due to its design and construction materials, and allows for selective replacement of damaged members.
US08801052B2 Hood latch
A latch assembly includes a striker plate and a latch plate. The striker plate is pivotal to a locked position securing the latch assembly to a striker bar and to an unlocked position wherein the striker bar can be inserted and removed therefrom. The latch plate is pivotal on a pivot pin to a latched position holding the striker plate in its locked position and to an unlatched position wherein the striker plate can be pivoted into and out of its locked position. A latch pin projects from the latch plate. A lever is pivotally mounted on the pivot pin. The lever is engagable with the latch pin to move the latch member from the latched position to the unlatched position. The lever is longer than a length of the latch plate. A spring is coupled to the lever and biased to urge the lever away from the latch pin. A link coupled to the lever is operable to move the lever towards the latch pin. The latch plate is pivotal independently of the lever when the striker plate is pivoting to its locked position.
US08801048B2 Mechanical pipe coupling assembly without adhesive or bonding agent
A mechanical coupling between a straight pipe end and a socket fitting comprises a seal ring and a locking ring disposed within the interior of the socket. The locking ring has a generally frusto-conical shape with a plurality of corrugations extending circumferentially thereabout, the corrugations presenting inner edge portions engaging the outer annular surface of the pipe end and outer edge portions engaging the interior annular surface of the socket for opposing withdrawal of the pipe end axially outwardly from the socket. In an advantageous embodiment, the locking ring is assembled with a support disk to optimally orient the locking ring with respect to the fitting and the pipe end.
US08801044B2 Method for creating a single continuous web from which to fabricate mailpieces
A method for producing a continuous web of printed material for use in creating mailpieces. The continuous web has a width and a length, the length comprised of a series of attached sheets. The series of attached sheets are comprising envelope sheets and rectangular content pages. The content pages are rectangular in shape and may be oriented relative to the envelope sheets in a number of different configurations. In some configurations, two sets of content pages and/or envelope sheets can be printed across the width of the web. Sheets for forming business return envelopes may be printed in series with the content pages and envelope sheets. BREs may include individualized return addresses. A control code may be printed on one or more of the sheets for a given mailpiece, providing information for controlling assembly of the mailpiece. Two sets of sheets may be printed across the width of the web by printing content pages onto the continuous web such that two end-to-end content pages are printed across the width of the web. Positioning of mail content pages and envelope sheets for a given mailpiece may be optimized based on respective processing times determined for the system.
US08801042B1 Learning aid
An improved learning aid in the form of a book, the book includes a front cover, a back cover, and a plurality of pages intermediate the front cover and the back cover. The plurality of pages, front cover, and back cover are conventionally bound together along one longitudinal side by a binding means. The back cover includes an outer side disposed with a plurality of sections. Each of the sections printed text framed by a text identification and sequence indicator, wherein the printed text is a complete reproduction of the text printed on a particular numbered page of the plurality of pages of the book.
US08801040B2 Low-profile vacuum tank trailer for transporting flowable material
The present invention discloses a tank trailer for transporting flowable material. The tank trailer includes a low-profile tank having a rear section, a front section, and a transitional section. The transitional section connects the rear section and the front section such that flowable material can flow among the sections. The rear section has a rear circumference and a rear center of gravity. The front section has a front circumference and a front center of gravity. The front circumference is smaller than the rear circumference, and the rear center of gravity is lower than the front center of gravity. The sections have tops that are collinearly aligned. The front section and the transitional section are frameless underneath. The tank trailer also includes a trailer suspension operatively connected to the rear section.
US08801039B2 Fuel pump mounting structure of saddle-ride-type vehicle
A fuel pump mounting structure of a saddle-ride-type vehicle that can enhance the degree of freedom in the shape of a fuel tank with the construction where a fuel pump is arranged in the inside of the saddle-type fuel tank that straddles a main frame. A first opening portion is formed in a tank bottom plate of a fuel tank, and a mounting arm which closes the first opening portion by one end thereof and supports the fuel pump by the other end thereof is arranged in the inside of the fuel tank, the mounting arm extends along a vehicle widthwise direction toward a gap SA formed between a straddling bottom portion of the fuel tank that straddles a main frame and a tank side wall of the fuel tank, and supports the fuel pump in the inside of the gap SA.
US08801038B2 Tongue for seat belt device, and seat belt device
A tongue for a seat belt device is provided with a tongue main body that is insertable within a buckle, and a train-around portion through which an intermediate portion of a webbing is inserted. The train-around portion includes a first shaft is fixedly mounted between a pair of opposing walls, and a second shaft that is movably mounted between the walls. The webbing is slidably bent 180° around the first fixed shaft. When tension of the webbing exceeds a predetermined magnitude or greater, the movable second shaft engages the webbing and increases a bending angle of the webbing around the first shaft to an angle greater than 180° thereby increasing frictional resistance between the webbing and the train-around portion.
US08801037B1 Adjuster, frame and vehicle
A golf cart includes a frame, an adjuster, and a pair of suspension assemblies that reduce changes in camber angles in a pair of wheels caused by an adjustment of a ground clearance. The adjuster includes a pair of first adjusting portions and a pair of second adjusting portions. Each of the first adjusting portions includes a first upper hole and a first lower hole. Each of the second adjusting portions includes a second upper hole and a second lower hole. Each suspension assembly includes a damper and an arm portion. When the golf cart is set to a high ground clearance, the first adjusting portions are installed between the frame and the dampers, and the second adjusting portions are installed between the frame and the arm portions.
US08801032B2 Active bolster
An active bolster for a vehicle is provided, wherein the bolster comprises an expansible hollow interior that is inflatable and is self-supporting in both an inflated and in an uninflated position. The bolster has an inflator module for inflating the expansible hollow interior. The bolster has an inner wall for projecting inwardly into the vehicle and away from the side of the vehicle on inflation of the expansible hollow interior. The bolster may have a relatively non-expansible component located between a first expansible chamber and a second expansible chamber. The bolster may comprise an outer wall having an attachment portion for attaching the outer wall to a portion of the side of the vehicle.
US08801031B1 Inflatable restraint deployment ramp
An inflatable restraint assembly includes a curtain airbag module and a ramp assembly. The curtain airbag module has an inflatable curtain portion that is disposed in a stowed configuration prior to deployment and moves to a deployed configuration subsequent to deployment. The ramp assembly is located adjacent to the inflatable curtain portion of the curtain airbag module. The ramp assembly has a pivoting portion that is moveable from a closed position to an open position in response to deployment of the inflatable curtain portion, at least one separable retainer member that retains the pivoting portion in the closed position prior to deployment of the inflatable curtain portion, and a biasing structure that biases the pivoting portion of the ramp assembly toward the open position. The pivoting portion is configured to guide the inflatable curtain portion of the curtain airbag module during deployment of the inflatable curtain portion.
US08801028B2 Baby safety car seat convertible into a rollable baby seat
A baby safety car seat convertible into a rollable baby seat, and comprising a front, head area and a rear, feet area, the head area being higher than the feet area; a right and left pair of front and rear legs, and a handle. The legs of each pair have distal ends associated with wheels and proximal ends articulated to the seat at corresponding leg attachment area. Both legs are rotatable relative to each other and to the seat between a storage position to be taken in a safety car seat mode of the seat, and an operational position to be taken in a rolling-carrier mode of the seat. The legs can further have an intermediate position between the storage and operational position, and can be rotatable between the intermediate position and the operational position, at least partially under the influence of gravity force.
US08801025B2 Ski or skate binding
A binding for a vehicle, such as a skate for skating on ice or a ski. The binding has an upper chassis section and a lower chassis section, which are interconnected by means of coupling means. The upper chassis section and the lower chassis section are arranged to be rollable relative to each other in the vehicle's longitudinal direction. The binding includes a first and a second contact surface at least one of the first and the second contact surface being curved. Thereby a stepless rolling motion between the upper chassis and the lower chassis is provided for, allowing the chassis to rock both backwards and forwards in relation to each other.
US08801024B2 Extension handle for children's mechanical, wheeled vehicles
An extension or towing handle for use with a child's scooter or other children's mechanical, wheeled vehicles, with a rigid, extension handle that affixes to the horizontal handlebar of the children's mechanical, wheeled vehicle by a clamshell-shaped plastic moulding, a metal bracket and various nuts and bolts, or by U-shaped bolts, a bracket and a back plate, or by a bracket. The handle may alternatively be somewhat flexible rather than entirely rigid, and may be telescopic. The handle pivots for a wide, vertical range of motion, to enable comfortable towing by an accompanying adult when in a raised position, as well as stowing in a lowered position when not in use. The handle has little or no horizontal range of motion, so that the accompanying adult may help the child to steer, and may include a finial allowing the user to grip it firmly and comfortably.
US08801023B2 Bicycle frame
A bicycle assembly can include a bicycle frame that can have a main frame, a sub-frame and a shock absorber. The sub-frame can move in relation to the main frame and the shock can be used to regulate that relationship. A extension body can be used to establish a rear pivot point of the shock absorber. In some embodiments, the extension body can also be used to adjust the length of the combined shock absorber and extension body.
US08801021B2 Front fork spring leg
A front fork spring leg, which is capable of stably maintaining air spring, has an inward-facing seal member, an outward-facing seal member, and a piston ring arranged on an outer periphery of a guide of a guide rod sequentially in this order along an axial direction of the guide from a side close to an inner air spring chamber toward a side far from the inner air spring chamber. The inward-facing seal member has a lip which is slidably in contact with an inner periphery of the guide cylinder, with this lip being oriented toward the inner air spring chamber. The outward-facing seal member has a lip which is slidably in contact with the inner periphery of the guide cylinder, with this lip being oriented in an opposite direction to the inner air spring chamber.
US08801006B2 Scooter
A self-propelled or foot-propelled vehicle comprising a scooter, particularly a collapsible microscooter, having a plurality of interchangeable wheels. Means for changing the wheels having a front fork and a rear fork, and front and rear axle means. A distance or height from handlebars to a footplate or deck of the scooter is less than 50 cm or 19½ inches (49.53 cm).
US08800999B2 Bit retention device
A bit retention device includes a shaft having a sidewall defining a hexagonal cavity extending from a first end thereof and a ball groove extending through the sidewall and communicating with the hexagonal cavity. A ball is disposed in the ball groove and a ball spring engages the ball and biases the ball toward the first end. An actuator sleeve surrounding the shaft includes an internal ramp engaging the ball. A spring biased plunger assembly is disposed in the bore for biasing a bit received in the bore in a direction toward the insertion end.
US08800994B2 Three-dimensional jigsaw puzzle
A three-dimensional jigsaw puzzle comprising a base, a post fixedly secured to and emanating upwardly from the base, a first group of pieces, where each piece in the first group has a through-bore to enable stacking about the post and also has at least one radially extending projection in a shape of a trapezoidal solid, and a second group of pieces, where each piece in the second group has at least one radially extending projection in the shape of a trapezoidal solid. The first and second groups of pieces are operatively arranged to stack and interlock with one another to form a cylindrically shaped structure.
US08800993B2 Card handling systems, devices for use in card handling systems and related methods
Card handling systems include shuffling devices, shoe devices, and a card transfer system for automatically transferring cards from the shuffling device into the shoe device. Shuffling devices may include a divider configured to contact at least one card positioned within a compartment of the shuffling device. Shoe devices may include a card loading system for loading cards into a card storage area through an opening in a base of the shoe device. Methods of providing cards during a casino table game play include identifying card information including a rank and a suit of each card in a shuffling device and a shoe device and transporting cards from the shuffling device to the shoe device.
US08800991B2 Gaming console with transparent sprites
The present invention provides a gaming console 40 having display means 41, and game control means 100 arranged to control images displayed on the display means 41. The game control means 100 are arranged to play a game wherein a plurality of symbols 43 are randomly selected and displayed on the display means 41 and, if a winning combination results, the console 40 pays a prize. The console 40 is characterized in that the displayed images include a first image component 31 which displays basic game features and a second image component 50 which displays image features which appear superimposed on the first image component 31. The second image component 50 is transparent, whereby the first image component 31 is visible through the second image component 50 under the control of the control means 100.
US08800990B2 Automatic document feeder and image forming apparatus including the same
An automatic document feeder includes an upstream conveyance roller pair disposed upstream of an image reader including an upstream driving roller and an upstream driven roller; a downstream conveyance roller pair including a downstream driving roller and a downstream driven roller; an upstream auxiliary roller pair including upstream auxiliary rollers disposed coaxially on a shaft of the upstream driving roller and of the upstream driven roller, respectively, each formed of an elastic member and having a diameter greater than that of the adjacent upstream driving roller and of the adjacent upstream driven roller, respectively; and a downstream auxiliary roller pair including downstream auxiliary rollers each disposed coaxially on a shaft of the downstream driving roller and of the downstream driven roller, formed of a low-hardness elastic member and having a diameter greater than that of the adjacent downstream driving roller and of the adjacent downstream driven roller.
US08800989B2 Paper conveying device
A paper conveying device includes: a conveyance path, along which paper is conveyed; paper jam removal zones provided side by side along the conveyance path; paper detection sensors respectively provided in the paper jam removal zones for detecting the presence or absence of paper; a paper jam detecting section for detecting paper jam based on output signals from the paper detection sensors; a signal storing section for storing previous signal statuses just before current signal statuses of the output signals of the paper detection sensors; a display section for displaying one of the paper jam removal zones; and a display controlling section for identifying the one of the paper jam removal zones based on the current signal statuses and the previous signal statuses of the paper detection sensors when paper jam is detected, and displaying the identified paper jam removal zone on the display section.
US08800983B2 Operating table column
An operating table column has a column part a head part, and a plurality of actuating drives that each comprise a first element and a second element that can be linearly adjusted relative to this first element and that acts upon the head part. The first element of a first actuating drive is connected to the column part, while the head part is pivotably connected to the second element of the first actuating drive. The first element of a second actuating drive is pivotably connected to the column part, whereby, the head part is pivotably connected to the second element of the second actuating drive. The first element of a third actuating drive is connected at a distance from the head part to the second element of the first actuating drive and the second element of the third actuating drive is connected to the head part via respective universal joints.
US08800974B2 Air spring sleeve
The present invention is directed to an air spring sleeve comprising: an outer layer, at least one reinforcing layer, and an inner layer that form the sleeve; the outer layer and the inner layer are formed of an elastomeric composition, with the proviso that the elastomeric composition does not comprise epichlorohydrin; and the at least one reinforcing layer comprises a plurality of reinforcing elements disposed between a layer of the elastomeric composition, wherein the elastomeric composition of the at least one reinforcing layer is identical to the elastomeric composition of the outer layer and the inner layer.
US08800970B2 Methods and devices in the field of treatment with medical gases
The present invention relates to a humidifier for humidifying medical gases, comprising a humidification module including a control unit, wherein the humidification module is adapted for receiving a humidification chamber. Furthermore, the humidification module is further adapted to sense and/or receive information upon connection of the humidification chamber and/or additional equipment such as hoses, power supply pack.
US08800969B2 Device and method for dissolving gas into a liquid
Provided is a system for dissolving gas into liquid contained within a body. The system may include a tubular body extending between a bottom end and a top end, a gas diffuser coupleable to a gas source and configured for discharging gas bubbles into the tubular body, and a liquid pump for propelling liquid within the tubular body in a downwards direction, against uprising gas bubbles, where the liquid egresses at the bottom end of the tubular body.
US08800967B2 Integrated systems facilitating wire and cable installations
Pulling eyes are provided with integrated wiring systems suitable for installing conductors or cables. The pulling eyes may include body portions that define interior cavities that are sized to snugly engage outside portions of the conductors or cables. The body portions are sized to be deformably crimped onto the outside portions of the conductors or cables. The pulling eyes may also include head portions joined to the body portions, with the head portions defining apertures for receiving a strength member for installing the conductors or cables. These apertures place the interior cavities in communication with the exteriors of the pulling eyes.
US08800966B2 Drain plug
A drain plug for selectively draining a source of fluid is described, and which includes first, second and third portions which provide coaxially aligned fluid passageways which extend therethrough, and wherein the second portion is moveable relative to the first and third portions between a first position which substantially occludes, and prevents the passage of fluid through the coaxial aligned fluid passageways, and a second position where fluid is allowed to pass therethrough and may be collected for disposal as required.
US08800965B2 Butterfly valve with a rigid seal
A valve is disclosed and can include a valve body having a central bore for passage of fluid there through and a longitudinal axis. The valve can also include a seal installed within the valve body along the central bore. The seal can include a first seal member having an annular ring portion and a hub portion extending from the annular ring portion. The seal can also include a second seal member including an annular ring configured to engage a distal end of the hub portion and create a sealing engagement between the hub portion and the annular ring when a compressive force is applied to the first and the second seal members.
US08800964B2 Female screw member, motor operated valve using the same, and method for producing female screw member for motor operated valve
A female screw member includes a female screw part with a female screw, and a projection part projecting in the direction of a center shaft of the female screw and having a working face in the rotating direction centering on the center shaft. The female screw part and projection part are integrally molded with a resin. The projection part has a spiral inclination face spirally inclining by one round from the working face centering on the center shaft of the female screw. The height H of the working face is equal to or smaller than a pitch P of the female screw. Using the projection part as a fully opening fixing stopper, a motor operated valve includes a valve main body having a valve seat, the female screw member attached to the valve main body, a motor having a rotator and stator, and a valve shaft. The valve shaft is screwed to a female screw of the female screw member, and is rotated and driven by the rotor, and has a fully opening movable stopper capable of contacting the fully opening fixing stopper.
US08800963B2 Discharge valve assembly
A discharge valve assembly includes: a valve casing that has an intake bore, an air chamber communicating with the intake bore, and a discharge aperture communicating with the air chamber; a metal intermediate ring disposed in the air chamber and having a valve hole that communicates with the air chamber, and at least one connecting aperture that communicates with the discharge aperture and the valve hole; a base ring that retains the metal intermediate ring in the air chamber and is mounted on the valve casing; and an adjuster that is disposed in the base ring and movable relative to the base ring to adjust an air flow through the valve hole.
US08800960B2 Automatic water supply control device
An automatic water supply control device is disclosed. A power processing unit processes an alternating current outputted by a micro hydro generator and provides a stable direct current. The automatic water supply control device uses a capacitor and a capacitor matrix for storing electric energy. A sensing unit detects changes from an environment such as human proximity, temperature and humidity and outputs sensing signals. A micro controller set receives the sensing signals sent by the sensing unit in order to control an electromagnetic drive unit and drive the electromagnetic coil. The micro controller set also controls an electromagnetic drive unit to drive an electromagnetic coil for supplying water and performing charging based on a logical setting, when an output voltage value of a step-down voltage conversion circuit is lower than a preset voltage value.
US08800952B2 Removing material from defective opening in glass mold and related glass mold for injection molded solder
Methods of removing material from a defective opening in a glass mold using a laser pulse, repairing a glass mold and a related glass mold for injection molded solder (IMS) are disclosed. In one embodiment, a method includes providing a glass mold including a plurality of solder filled openings; identifying a defective opening in the glass mold; removing material from the defective opening by applying a laser pulse to the defective opening; and repairing the defective opening by filling the defective opening with an amount of solder by: removing a redundant, non-defective solder portion from an opening in the glass mold by applying a laser pulse to the opening, and placing the redundant, non-defective solder portion in the defective opening.
US08800947B2 Stepped lowering device and stepped lifter device
A stepped lowering device includes a lifting/lowering link having a pivot on a base and on an ascending/descending body; a toothed link pivoted on the base or the ascending/descending body, includes a link ratchet and swings in association with the lifting/lowering link; an input member, supported by the ascending/descending body or the base; a first lowering prevention latch mechanism engaged with the link ratchet to prevent the toothed link swinging downward when the input member is in a neutral position and allows the toothed link to swing downward when the input member is swung in a lowering direction; and a second lowering prevention latch mechanism which allows the toothed link to swing downward by one tooth of the link ratchet and which is engaged with the link ratchet to prevent the toothed link further swinging downward.
US08800946B2 Retail merchandise display clip
A retail display clip is provided. The retail display clip includes a stationary clip base and a rotatable clip member that rotates about an axis of rotation. The rotatable clip member rotates relative to the clip base. The retail display clip includes an open state and a closed state. As the rotatable clip member rotates from the open to the closed or the closed to the open state, an over-center point is transitioned. The over-center point is created by the interaction between a locking tab of the rotatable clip member and a flat inner surface of the clip base. In the closed stated, a torque is created by the over-center point that causes the locking tab to place a force on the flat inner surface of the clip base. A gripping point is formed at the location where the locking tab places the force. The gripping point supports retail merchandise.
US08800943B2 Ventilating fan mounting bracket
Disclosed is a mounting bracket assembly for a ventilating fan including a first bracket, a second bracket, and a bracket fixing member, the first bracket is provided with a U-shaped groove and is provided at an end thereof with a first supporting leg folded into an L-shaped; the second bracket is provided with a U-shaped groove and is provided at an end thereof with a second supporting leg folded into an L-shaped, and a root portion of the second supporting leg is provided at two sides thereof with slots; the second bracket is engaged into the U-shaped groove of the first bracket and can be slid in the U-shaped groove of the first bracket to adjust the length of the bracket assembly; the bracket fixing member is provided with a C-shaped groove; the first bracket is engaged and inserted into the C-shaped groove and can be slidable in the C-shaped groove; the bracket fixing member fixes the first bracket and the second bracket combined together to a ventilating fan body by engagement of the C-shaped groove with the first bracket. With the above configuration, the bracket assembly has improved stability, can be operated easily, and can be installed conveniently.
US08800941B2 Utility clip
A utility clip is disclosed wherein the clip can hold a variety of tools and can be used commercially or in the home. The clip comprises a first and second clamping member, with each clamping member having alligator teeth positioned facing each at the inner distal end of the members, with at least one and possibly two useful tools positioned at the proximal end of each of the clamping members.
US08800935B2 Spacecraft payload positioning with respect to a virtual pivot point
A spacecraft payload element is rotated by a mechanism about virtual pivot point (VPP) substantially distant from the mechanism. The mechanism couples the payload element to a spacecraft main body structure, and has a four-bar linkage configured to rotate the payload element about a virtual pivot point (VPP). The VPP may be proximate to the focus or center of gravity (cg) of the payload element. Rotation of the payload element about the VPP may be controlled by linear or rotary actuators which drive the four-bar linkage. The four-bar linkage may be configured to provide a mechanical advantage to the actuator.
US08800933B2 Space debris removal
A method comprises removing space debris having a relatively low ballistic coefficient by hastening orbital decay of the debris. A transient gaseous cloud is created at an altitude of at least 100 km above Earth. The cloud has a density sufficient to slow the debris so the debris falls into Earth's atmosphere.
US08800927B2 Aircraft door and a method for the manufacture of an aircraft door of this type
An aircraft door includes an outer skin configured as a panel structure; and a rear body structure configured as an integral cast structure and operatively connected to the panel structure so as to provide rigidity.
US08800918B2 Hybrid engine accessory power system
A system for generating accessory power from a gas turbine engine is provided by the present invention. The system includes an electronic control device for monitoring at least one parameter which provides information about an incipient change in power demand, a control valve operated by the control device for supplying bleed air from the engine during a transient state in response to the at least one monitored parameter, and a pneumatically operated device for receiving the bleed air and for generating power to operate equipment onboard an aircraft. The pneumatically operated device may be an air turbine or a pneumatically integrated generator.
US08800917B2 Aircraft engine pylon AFT aerodynamic fairing
An aircraft engine pylon aft aerodynamic fairing includes upper spars, transverse stiffening ribs, lower spars and a trailing edge where the upper spars and lower spars join together. In this fairing, a profiled structure is formed according to a profile open to the outside of the fairing. In a first end portion, the profiled structure comes to be enclosed between an end portion of the lower spars and the ends of at least one transverse stiffening ribs flush with the lower spars. This structure extends between the lower spars and the upper spars over a straight central portion inclined relative to the first end portion, and comes in a second end portion flush against a portion of the upper spars, parallel to the first end.
US08800915B2 Device for boundary layer suction and composite component therefor
A device for boundary layer suction on the outer skin of an aircraft, on which outer skin a surface where drawing off by suction can take place comprising openings is connected to a suction source by way of at least one suction line, wherein the surface where drawing off by suction can take place is formed by at least one panel-shaped composite component that comprises an extruded profile, made of light metal, as a base body, which extruded profile comprises several suction channels that are open towards the outer skin, onto which base body, for the purpose of forming the outer skin, a micro-perforated metal cover sheet has been applied in the region of the surface where drawing off by suction can take place.
US08800914B2 Gas turbine engine with low stage count low pressure turbine
A gas turbine engine includes a spool along an engine centerline axis which drives a gear train.
US08800911B2 Lightning strike protection
A lightning strike protection material may include a fiber reinforced composite aircraft component including carbon fibers in a resin matrix. The carbon fibers may have a length greater than at least about 6 mm and include carbon nanotubes grown on the fibers, and the nanotubes may be substantially uniformly distributed on the fibers and have a length between about 1 and 100 microns. The nanotubes may decrease a surface resistance of the resin matrix.
US08800909B2 Sheet-supply device and image forming apparatus incorporating same
A sheet-supply device internally defining a supply route through which to supply a sheet. The sheet-supply device includes a supply member to supply the sheet from a rolled long sheet, a guide member to guide the sheet to the supply member, provided upstream in a direction in which the sheet is moved to the supply member and, movable between a guide position at which the sheet is guided to the supply member and an escape position at which the guide member is away from the supply route of the sheet.
US08800906B2 Use of transforming growth factor-beta neutralizing antibodies and fusion proteins thereof in treating pain
Provided herein are methods for treating pain and for reducing the excitability of nociceptors, comprising administering a TGF-β antagonist. In some embodiments, a TGF-β antagonist is a monoclonal TGF-β neutralizing antibody or a fusion product comprising a monoclonal TGF-β neutralizing antibody, a soluble receptor, an antisense oligodeoxynucleotides (ODNs), a ribozymes, a small inhibitory RNA (siRNA), Smad 6, Smad7, or a small molecule that blocks TGF-β signaling.
US08800903B1 Multi-connector hammer and protective arm
The various embodiments disclosed and pictured illustrate a multi-connector hammer for comminuting various materials and a protective arm. The illustrative embodiments pictured and described herein are primarily for use with a rotatable hammermill assembly. The multi-connector hammer includes a connection portion having a rod hole therein, a contact portion for delivery of energy to the material to be comminuted, and a multi-connector neck portion affixing the connection portion to the contact portion. In other embodiments, a shoulder is positioned around the periphery of the rod hole for added strength. In still other embodiments, a neck reinforcement is positioned along a portion of the neck for increased strength. A weld or plurality of welds may be affixed to various surfaces of the contact portion to aide in comminuting and/or longevity of the multi-connector hammer.
US08800902B2 Attachment with interchangeable jaw
The invention relate to an attachment with interchangeable jaws, in which jaws can be interchanged according to the work purpose in the use of the attachment attached to construction equipment such as an excavator and configured to crush or shear concrete or reinforcing bars. The attachment comprises a main body unit connected to heavy construction equipment, and a jaw unit connected to the main body unit. The main body unit comprises a pair of lock pins, and at least one operating cylinder. The lock pins and the least one operating cylinder are mounted on a main body unit frame. The main body unit frame comprises an equipment connecting section, a first support, a second support, and a hook pin-receiving portion. The jaw unit comprises a pair of jaws, a jaw pin, and a hook pin. The jaw unit frame comprises a third support.
US08800901B2 Pulverizer and operating method therefor
A pulverizer includes a cutting rotor with a multiplicity of cutting blades, a cutting stator surrounding the cutting rotor with a plurality of stator blades, a milling stock inlet for the milling stock feed and a discharge screen in direction of rotation of the cutting rotor located after the milling stock inlet, wherein all stator blades in direction of rotation of the cutting rotor are arranged between the milling stock inlet and the discharge screen. Furthermore, an operating method for a pulverizer as described above is also contemplated.
US08800900B2 Method and device for comminuting ore
A device and method for comminuting ore and/or slag with an ore feeding unit for feeding ore to a pulverizer, wherein the pulverizer includes at least two comminuting elements that form at least one comminuting space for the ore such that, by a relative movement in the form of a rotation of at least one of the comminuting elements, the ore is pulverized. One or more accelerating elements are provided on the at least one of the comminuting elements for accelerating and comminuting the ore by the rotation of one of the comminuting elements. An intermediate space is provided between two comminuting elements and/or in at least one of the comminuting elements, through which the pulverized ore, during the rotation, is transported from the center of rotation, and an outlet unit is provided, which is connected to the intermediate space and through which the pulverized ore is discharged.
US08800897B2 Process and device for producing flour
Whole grain flour is produced from a cereal grain such as wheat by removing an outer layer of the grain, and also some of the endosperm. The removed outer layer comprises 5% to 40% of the original weight of the grain. The removed parts of the grain are comminuted during the removal of the outer layer. Both the grain and the comminuted removed outer layer are then conveyed into a milling device and are milled to form whole grain flour.
US08800889B2 Impact sprinkler with adjustable counterweight member
An impact sprinkler with an adjustable counterweight member has a main body, a rotation guiding member, a driving section, and an adjustable counterweight member. The counterweight member is provided on the driving section in a state for segmentation positioning, including a counterweight component and an adjusting structure. The counterweight component can be assembled with or disassembled from the adjusting structure, and the adjusting structure is made up of multiple spaced positioning edges configured on the corresponding positions of the driving section and counterweight component and at least one elastic clamping fringe, and the elastic clamping fringe can be clasped on any positioning edge to fix the counterweight component. This enables flexible adjustment and segmentation positioning of the counterweight component, so as to accurately control the swing angle of the swinging part, and avoid displacement of the counterweight component caused by vibration or collision.
US08800888B2 Driving device for lifting buried spraying head
A driving device for a lifting buried spraying head includes a case (2), a filter (3) provided in the lower end of the case (2), and a spraying head driving unit disposed inside the case (2). The spraying head driving unit connects with a spraying head located on the top end of the case via a main shaft, and the spraying head driving unit drives the spraying head to rotate and spray water. Wherein, the spraying head driving unit comprises a tangential flow generator (4) and a hydraulic rotator (5). The tangential flow generator (4) is a small case structure which is hollow, and a water supply gap is formed between the tangential flow generator and the inner wall of the case (2). Inflow openings (44) are arranged on the shell wall of the tangential flow generator (4). The hydraulic rotator (5) is disposed inside the tangential flow generator (4), and the hydraulic rotator (5) has stress surfaces (55) corresponding to the inflow openings (44). The hydraulic rotator (5) connects with the spraying head directly or indirectly via the main shaft.
US08800886B2 Safety lock for a rotatable spray nozzle of a spray device
A safety lock for a spray nozzle assembly for an airless, high pressure spray device, and more particularly to safety locks or guards for reversible, rotatable spray nozzles assemblies, optionally provided with a tip guard.
US08800885B2 Railway clip insulator with two stable positions for standby, parked or preloaded position and installed, loaded or final position
A rail seat includes a concrete rail tie; a pair of rail clip support shoulders cast in place in said rail tie each said shoulder having a rail face between its external sides; a pair of shoulder insulators each shaped to lie against the rail face of the rail shoulder; a pair of rail clips each having a base section adapted to seat within the rail clip support shoulder and a toe section adapted to seat on the rail base. The clip and toe insulator assembly is loaded on the shoulder in a vertical direction so that parts of the toe insulator seat within pockets in the shoulder that enable the clip and insulator assembly to move laterally towards the rail but not away from it and the clip base is aligned with the shoulder slot ready to enter it when the clip is moved laterally to the parked position which applies a small downward force to the clip toes and at this stage lie outside the limits of the rail base and finally the clip can be moved laterally into the installed position where the toe insulators sit on top of the rail base and securely hold it down.
US08800882B2 Device and method for operating a drive
A device and a method for operating a drive having a mechanically commutated electric motor, is provided, wherein a rotary position of the drive is determined by a circuit from a ripple of a motor current of the electric motor, wherein at least one correction value is determined for an error characteristic of the electric motor, wherein at least one correction value is determined for an error characteristic of the electric motor, in that the drive is moved to a reference position that can be sensed by means of a position sensor, in that the drive is moved from the reference position into a plurality of positions at a distance from the reference position and at least one position deviation is determined by the circuit, and in that the correction value is determined from the particular position deviation and stored.
US08800878B2 Method for encoding contactless communication data from a transponder to a reader via charge modulation, in the form of a set of patterns and device for implementing same
The invention relates to a method for encoding contactless communication data from a transponder to a reader via charge modulation, in the form of a set of modulation patterns, each modulation pattern being a series of charge levels of a predefined length used for physical encoding, having a duration of n carrier periods (Tc), including a series of at least two charge levels, having a minimum pulse width (w) corresponding to the shortest duration of a single charge level in the pattern, and having a retromodulation rate (t) corresponding to the ratio between the retromodulation time and the duration of a pattern, characterized in that the number (k) of patterns is greater than four, the minimum pulse widths (w) of at least two patterns are different, and the retromodulation rates (t) of at least two patterns are different. The invention also relates to a device for implementing the method.
US08800877B2 RFID reporting personal health card and related systems
A personal health card that includes a smartcard with an RFID device that automatically reports certain RFID response information when illuminated by an interrogation signal from an RFID reader, such as an authorized first responder interrogation device issued to police, fire, lifeguard, or EMT personnel. A characteristic of the response from a selected card may change in response to the strength of the signal received from the card to help the operator locate and recover a desired card. For example, the volume of an audible “ping” at the interrogator may become louder or more frequent as the interrogation response from the card becomes stronger to provide a “homing device” for physically locating a particular card. This feature is very helpful when emergency responses are attempting to locate personal health cards at the scene of an accident or other incident.
US08800873B2 Apparatus for optically reading information stored in graphic symbol
In an apparatus for optically reading a graphic symbol composed of a plurality of optically identifiable unit sections of information, a first image pickup unit has a first photodetector and picks up a first optical image of the graphic symbol based on light detected by the first photodetector. A second image pickup unit has a second photodetector and configured to pick up a second optical image of the graphic symbol based on light detected by the second photodetector. A correcting unit corrects a light intensity level of at least one section of one of the first and second optical images based on a light intensity level of at least one section of the other of the first and second optical images. The at least one section corresponds to at least one of the unit sections of information of the graphic symbol.
US08800871B2 RFID reader/writer and assembly thereof
A Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) assembly includes an RFID reader/writer having a first micro-USB (Universal-Serial-Bus) connector and a mobile phone having a second micro-USB connector configured to electrically connect to the first micro-USB connector. In one embodiment of the present disclosure, the RFID reader/writer includes a circuit board having a first processor and a first USB controller, and an antenna board stacked on the circuit board, wherein the first USB controller electrically connects the first processor and the first micro-USB connector, and the antenna board includes a reverse F-shaped antenna. In one embodiment of the present disclosure, the mobile phone includes a second processor, and a second USB controller electrically connecting the second processor and the second micro-USB connector.
US08800862B1 Fast cash at ATM
Apparatus and methods for an enhanced cash withdrawal transaction option are provided. The enhanced cash withdrawal transaction option may include using an ATM to display an initial ATM display. The initial ATM display may display multiple transaction options, the multiple transaction options including at least one cash withdrawal amount. Apparatus and methods for an additional enhanced cash withdrawal transaction are provided. The additional enhanced cash withdrawal transaction may enable a user to type an ATM PIN in an ATM keypad followed by a cash withdrawal amount. Apparatus and methods for an enhanced ATM customer display are also provided. The enhanced ATM customer display according to the systems and methods of the invention may customize an ordered ATM customer flow based on historical customer usage data.
US08800861B1 Methods and apparatus for intelligent selection of goods and services offered to conferees
Computer-based methods, computer readable media, and computer program products for offering upsell items to conferees accessing a conferencing platform utilizing, for example, an electronic communications device. Various aspects of the methods can include conducting one or more conferee-initiated primary transactions related to accessing the conferencing platform. The method then obtains data relating to the primary transaction, which data can include data representing the identity of the conferee and the subject matter of the primary transaction. The method then selects the upsell item as a result of or in response to the conferee-initiated primary transaction by, first, utilizing the data representing the identity of the conferee to obtain at least a second data element relating to the conferee.
US08800857B1 System and method for crediting loyalty program points and providing loyalty rewards by use of an electronic tag
A system and method for tracking and crediting points and rewards in connection with a loyalty program account via aggregating usage of electronic tags is disclosed. Loyalty program members may be offered different rewards based on their participation in the loyalty program. The tags are embedded in objects which may provide visual distinctions between members at different participation levels. In addition to loyalty program rewards, loyalty program members who reach certain threshold participation levels may also be provided with “soft rewards” such as free valet parking, free car washes, free shopping assistance, private check-out, free package delivery and access to a private lounge.
US08800855B2 Carton with slidable opener
A carton for containing a product. The carton comprises a plurality of panels that extends at least partially around an interior of the carton. The plurality of panels comprises a first end panel, a first side panel, a second end panel, and a second side panel. At least one end flap is respectively foldably connected to a respective panel of the plurality of panels. The at least one end flap at least partially forms a closed end of the carton. An opener is positionable between a closed position substantially preventing removal of the product from the interior of the carton through a dispenser opening in one of the first end panel and the second end panel, and an open position allowing removal of the product from the interior of the carton through the dispenser opening.
US08800854B2 Reinforcing support assemblies for a container and method of making same
A container assembly is provided. The container assembly includes a container formed from a first blank of sheet material. The container includes a bottom wall and a plurality of sides extending upwardly from the bottom wall such for defining a cavity therein. Each side includes an inner surface that extends between a bottom edge positioned between the bottom wall and a top edge. Each inner surface includes a height that is measured between the top edge and the bottom edge. At least one support assembly formed from a second blank of sheet material is positioned within the cavity. The support assembly includes a back panel assembly that is coupled to the inner surface of one of the plurality of sides. An extension assembly extends outwardly from the back panel assembly.
US08800853B2 Carton with divider
A carton for containing a plurality of articles. The carton comprises panels that extend at least partially around an interior of the carton. The panels comprise a top panel, a bottom panel, a first side panel, and a second side panel. At least one divider panel is in the interior of the carton. The divider panel is attached to at least one of the panels. A dispenser is for allowing access to the articles in the carton. The dispenser is for separating the carton into a first portion and a second portion. At least one of the first portion and the second portion is at least partially closed by the at least one divider panel.
US08800850B2 Article-transport container
An article-transport container comprises a floor having a respective left-side and right-side closures foldably joined thereto. A front end closure is foldably joined to the floor and to the respective right-side and left-side closures. A rear end closure is foldably joined to the floor and to the respective right-side and left-side closures. Four quad-layer corners are defined by a first quad-layer corner, a second quad-layer corner, a third quad-layer corner, and a fourth quad-layer corner which cooperate with the respective right-side and left-side closures to define an interior region adapted to receive articles therein. The first quad-layer corner includes respective outer and inner layers and respective first and second medial layers that are sandwiched between the respective outer and inner layers to enhance stacking strength of the container while minimizing scarps produced during construction of the container.
US08800847B2 Dynamic path correction of friction stir welding
A method for controlling friction stir welding is provided. The method may include initiating friction stir welding and determining the position of a friction stir welding tool and at least one part being welded. The method may also include adjusting the position of the friction stir welding tool while friction stir welding based at least in part on the positions of the tool and at least one of the parts. The position of the parts may be determined downstream of the friction stir welding tool in order to prospectively account for the position of the parts. Accordingly, the position of the friction stir welding tool may be dynamically adjusted during friction stir welding to account for part movement. Related systems and computer code are provided.
US08800844B2 Reinforcement of friction plug welds
A hole in a metal workpiece is filled by friction plug welding. The weld between the workpiece and the plug is reinforced by a weld land in the workpiece that surrounds one end of the plug. The weld land is formed by extruding a portion of the plug into a cavity in an anvil used in the welding process.
US08800843B2 Bonding apparatus
A bonding apparatus includes an ultrasonic horn configured to vibrate longitudinally in resonance with the vibration of an ultrasonic vibrator; a capillary attached at an anti-node of the vibration of the ultrasonic horn; a flange provided at a node of the vibration of the ultrasonic horn; a bonding arm; a load sensor attached between the center of rotation of the bonding arm and a flange mounting surface; and a vibration load detection unit for extracting a signal obtained by causing a signal that is detected with the load sensor to pass a signal within a frequency range around the vibrational frequency of the ultrasonic vibrator through a band-pass filter, whereby the bonding apparatus can detect the vibration load at a tip end of the capillary in the direction along the central axis of the ultrasonic horn with a simple structure.
US08800832B2 Trailer tongue cargo carrier
A cargo carrier for a tongue of a trailer has a cargo receiving support with opposed sides, a front and a back. There is a pair of trailer tongue engaging mounts and at least two support legs having an upper end and a lower end. The upper end of each of the support legs is connected to the opposed sides of the cargo receiving support and the lower end of each of the support legs being engaged in the trailer tongue engaging mounts.
US08800830B2 Electrical device mounting structure on a motorcycle
An electrical device mounting structure on a motorcycle which includes a resilient support member having a spring-flexural resilience and supporting an electrical device unit. The resilient support member has a first portion secured to a vehicle body or a member connected to the vehicle body. The resilient support member also has a second portion provided separate from the first portion and closer to the electrical device. The second portion is supported on the vehicle body or the member connected to the vehicle body via an elastic member having an attenuating property.
US08800829B2 Stress-reducer for shoulder and the use thereof
A stress-reducer is provided for reducing stress on a user from a load of a carried item or object. The stress-reducer is shaped as a yoke and worn over a shoulder of a user and supports the carried item or object. The yoke bridges or spans the shoulder of the user, substantially the upper part of the trapezius muscle and/or the collarbone. The yoke is in contact with either side of the upper part of the user's shoulder on an anterior and/or posterior side. The stress-reducer can be used with strap means. A carried item, equipped with a stress-reducer, a brassiere fitted with a stress-reducer and a garment having a stress-reducer attached thereto are also provided, as well as an arm carrier comprising a stress-reducer, a cradle being attached to an arm and a string being connected between the stress-reducer and the cradle.
US08800823B2 Trigger sprayer and valve system
A valve system for a trigger sprayer including a valve forming an air spring with a portion of the trigger sprayer and being made of a flexible or elastomeric material. The trigger sprayer may include an air-spring valve system wherein the air-spring valve system provides precompression during a pump stroke. The precompression forces developed in the valve system during a pump stroke may originate from an air valve or air pocket trapped between a portion of a valve body and a part of the valve system. For example, a valve may be inserted in a tube retainer which is connected to a valve body of a trigger sprayer. Air trapped in a chamber or space between a portion of the valve and the tube retainer may provide a force against the valve such that a certain force must be applied to the valve before it allows product to be released.
US08800822B2 Dip tube connectors and pump systems using the same
A pump system may include a blown-in dip tube connected to a valve body and having a connection which may include an improved blown-in dip tube connector having a swivel adaptor, or a rotatable connector, which creates a fluid path from a blown-in dip tube of a bottle to a trigger sprayer. The swivel adaptor, or rotatable connector, may also include a body or head which may be attached to a valve body, tube retainer, or valve retainer of a trigger sprayer.
US08800816B2 System and method of providing individual quantities of custom colored sealing compound
A system and method for providing custom colored sealant are generally provided with a dispensing container, containing a quantity of sealant base solution. A bottom wall of the dispensing container is positioned to limit any headspace within the interior of the dispensing container until the contents are ready to be mixed. The bottom wall is moved prior to adding a coloring agent to the dispensing container, which is mixed with the sealant base by agitating the dispensing container, until a desired color is attained. A sealant thickener may then be added and mixed by similar agitation of the dispensing container. A rod may be provided to engage and move the bottom wall. A pull string may also be provided to move the bottom wall. A nozzle is then coupled with the dispensing container and the custom-colored sealant is ready to be dispensed.
US08800815B1 Container for use with a counter mounted dispensing system
The present disclosure relates to a container for flowable material configured to be installed in a counter below an access hole. The container includes a first deformable portion and a second deformable portion. The first deformable portion defines a first cavity and has a sealable first cavity inlet. The second deformable portion defines a second cavity and is in flow communication with the first cavity. The first deformable portion is configured to deform to fit into the access hole when substantially no flowable material is therein and the second deformable portion configured to deform to fit through the access hole when substantially no flowable material is therein. The disclosure also includes a method of installing a container of flowable material in a counter below an access hole.
US08800814B2 Fluid pouch dispensing container, cooler and support
Disclosed is a beverage pouch or bladder supporting container having a plurality of elements for the purposes of efficiently dispensing, storing and preserving the beverage contained within the pouch, all while presenting an outward appearance that is tasteful and decorative. The container comprises an enclosure having an internal volume and a base, wherein the volume is actively cooled using a refrigeration system or alternatively is insulated for retaining a plurality of freezable blocks or a quantity of ice therein. Along the forward face of the enclosure is an aperture adapted to accept the spout of the beverage pouch, while an attachable or pull-out drip tray is positioned therebelow. Within the interior of the enclosure may further be provided a bladder support element adapted to suspend, compress or elevate the bag for more efficient and constant-flow dispensing of its contents through the externally-mounted spout.
US08800813B1 Metering product delivery pump system
A metering product delivery pump system that includes a product accumulator assembly, at least one controlled product dispensing assembly and a rotary gate valve assembly for each controlled product dispensing assembly is provided. The product accumulator assembly is coupled to receive product. The at least one controlled product dispensing assembly outputs product to a product package. Each rotary gate valve assembly is coupled to selectively pass product between the product accumulator system and an associated controlled product dispensing assembly. Each rotary gate valve assembly includes a rotary gate valve and at least one blade configured and arranged to engage the rotary gate valve to cut solid product as the rotary gate valve is rotated.
US08800811B2 Product dispensing system
A product dispensing system is provided. The product dispensing system includes an enclosure and a plurality of removable merchandise retainers positioned within the enclosure. The enclosure defines a secured retail storage area and an unsecured retail storage area. The product dispensing system also includes a customer accessible selector for selecting an item of retail merchandise carried by one of the merchandise retainers. Upon selection, depression of an actuator of the selector will bias the item of retail merchandise from the secured retail storage area to the unsecured retail storage area.
US08800807B2 Metal sheet container for transporting dangerous products
The container includes a body including a tubular side wall with upper and lower edges that are double-seamed to end walls. The tubular side wall includes a deformation region formed by circumferential friezes, which are parallel and adjacent to each other and have a Z-shaped profile with their end legs disposed in planes which define, with the axis of the tubular side wall, an angle between 45° and 90°. The end legs are interconnected by a median leg inclined in relation to the axis and defining, with the respective end legs, an angle not superior to 90°. The adjacent end legs of two consecutive friezes being coplanar and interconnected, by their opposite ends, to the respective median legs.
US08800799B1 Secure container
Certain embodiments of a secure container are provided herein that are capable of being removably coupled to a surface.
US08800795B2 Ice chest having extending wall for variable volume
Disclosed therein is to an icebox, which has volume varying means so as to selectively vary a storage space of the icebox for storing various food supplies and to simultaneously store various portable means and household items to thereby prevent convenience in use. The icebox includes: an icebox body having a bottom and side walls, which are filled with insulating material, and a storing part opened at one side for storing foods therein; a cover for selectively opening and closing the opened side of the icebox body, the cover having a receiving part; a capacity varying part interposed between the icebox body and the cover and slidably joined to the storing part so as to vary the capacity of the storing part. Because the capacity of the storing part of the icebox is selectively varied, the icebox enables the user to utilize the space of the storing part in various ways, can accommodate various kinds of food supplies and household items, and is convenient in going long distance.
US08800793B2 Teat unit
A teat unit has a flexible teat, a receiving head and a dimensionally stable base part. The teat is arranged on the receiving head. The receiving head and the base part are connected to each other by a releasable plug connection, and the receiving head has a securing element for securing the teat unit on a drinks container.
US08800792B2 Mechanical coupling in a draftgear
A mechanical coupling, particularly in a draftgear in rail vehicles, includes a central plate (5) turnably mounted in a coupler head and having a link (7) pivoted in the same, and including a hooking mechanism for detachable hooking up of the central plate and the link in the non coupled position of the coupling, and a releasing device (10) for the automatic detachment of the hooking mechanism upon coupling. The hooking mechanism includes a hooking rod (12) pivotally connected with the central plate, which rod, by a lug (16), clutches a collar (11) arranged in the coupler head and, upon activation of the releasing device, detaches from the collar. A leaf spring (13) is arranged in the coupler head in order to, in abutment against the hooking rod, force the same, under the bias from the spring, to be pressed against the collar in the hooked up and disengaged positions.
US08800787B2 Cover for electronic equipment comprising fastening device
Cover of 19-inch rack type for electronic equipment, wherein the cover includes a fastening device including a front face, oriented facing out from the rack system, a rear side, two opposing side faces, as well as a bottom and a top face. The fastening device is fixed to the cover using a first fastening element, extending out from the side face of the cover, and fastened to the stand using a second fastening element so the rear face of the fastening device is oriented facing the stand, whereby the cover can be fixed to the stand. The fastening device includes a cavity between the front face and the rear face, including an opening and arranged with a gripping element for fingers, so that a user can insert one or several fingers through the opening and pull the cover out from its place in the rack system using the gripping element.
US08800786B2 Portable bicycle stand
A stand for a bicycle having a wheel, which stand holds the bicycle in an upright position of use on a horizontal surface. The stand comprises a trough having an upwardly open receptacle which is dimensioned and configured to receive the wheel in close cooperation therewith. One or more feet may be manually coupled to the trough to project laterally therefrom to steady the trough on the horizontal surface. The feet may slide fit to the trough, fasten by threaded fasteners, or may fold for stowage within the trough and swing out into a deployed position. The trough may include a storage compartment for bicycle tools and repair materials.
US08800784B2 System, apparatus and process for extraction of bitumen from oil sands
An extraction system and process for extracting bitumen from a slurry containing bitumen, solids and water. The system comprises a cyclone separation facility for separating the slurry into a solids component stream and a bitumen froth stream with the bitumen froth stream including water and fine solids. The bitumen froth stream is then delivered to a froth concentration facility for separating the bitumen froth stream into a final bitumen enriched froth stream, and a water and fine solids stream. The final bitumen enriched froth stream is suitable for further processing. The system of the present invention is preferably mobile so that the cyclone extraction facility and the froth concentration facility can move with the mine face at an oil sands mining site, however, it is also contemplated that the system can be retrofitted to existing fixed treatment facilities to improve the operational efficiency of such fixed facilities.
US08800778B2 Suspension solution filter sieve basket for use in flue gas desulphurization
A suspension solution filter sieve basket for use in a flue gas desulfurization includes holes which widen in a flow direction of a suspension solution.
US08800777B2 Cylindrical dedusting apparatus for particulate material
A cylindrical dedusting apparatus has an upper material infeed opening to introduce material into a frusto-conical infeed hopper centered over the tip of a conical wash deck supported over an air infeed conduit. Air is blown through slots and openings in the surface of the wash deck to separate dust and debris from the particulate material. The dust-laden air is discharged by passing between the infeed hopper and a cylindrical sleeve to enter into a circular collector for discharge from the apparatus. Flow rate of material over the wash deck is adjusted by vertically moving the infeed hopper within the sleeve relative to the wash deck to vary the dimension of the gap through which material flows onto the wash deck. A closed loop air system can be used with the cylindrical dedusting apparatus with a bleed air module that reduces air flow into the apparatus.
US08800775B2 Method for recovering metals from electronic waste containing plastics materials
The invention relates to a method for treating materials containing a mixture of plastic materials and metal materials, said method including: —crushing the material to be treated; pyrolysis of the crushed material; a first magnetic separation performed on the pyrolysed material providing, on the one hand, a ferrous metal fraction and, on the other hand, non-ferrous residue; —a second magnetic separation performed on the non-ferrous residue providing, on the one hand, a non-ferrous metal fraction and, on the other hand, non-magnetic residue. The invention also relates to a facility for implementing said method.
US08800773B2 Cartridge packaging material and cartridge packaging structure
To improve a buffer effect on cartridges as well as to make it possible to suppress deformation or breakage of the cartridges in the case where, after a storage case containing the data recording cartridges has been put in an outer case for packaging, the outer case is dropped. A sheet-shaped member is folded so as to cover an upper surface, a lower surface, and one side surface of a storage case 40 to form a backing plate member 30. The backing plate member 30 is formed with first cutout portions 35a for receiving first projecting portions 48a of an upper surface of the storage case 40, and second cutout portions 35b for receiving second projecting portions 48b of a lower surface the storage case 40.
US08800772B2 Individually attached disposable threads on thread frames for use with epilation or threader device
A method of using individually attached, disposable thread pieces from thread frames in conjunction with an epilation device, including providing a first thread frame holding a plurality of individually attached thread pieces of a variable length and thickness; providing a second thread frame holding a plurality of individually attached thread pieces of a variable length and thickness, wherein the thread pieces of the first frame are of a longer length than the thread pieces of the second frame; detaching at least one thread piece from the first thread frame and at least one thread piece from the second thread frame; and securing each thread piece from the first and second thread frames onto an epilation or threader device. An apparatus of a plurality of individually attached, disposable thread pieces secured by a first thread frame and a second thread frame in a straightened orientation for use with an epilation device.
US08800771B2 Container for pressurized fluids
A container having a tubular body including a side wall, a bottom wall in the form of a spherical dome projecting to the interior of the container, and an upper wall in the form of an annular spherical dome, inferiorly attached to the side wall by an upper double seam. The bottom wall includes at least one seating region having a predetermined circumferential extension along a plane extending transversely with respect to an axis of the container and being axially spaced inwardly within the side wall of the container, the seating region being configured to be fitted around a respective circumferential extension a upper double seam of an identical and adjacent container inferiorly disposed in a vertical stack, and axially seated on said upper double seam, so as to define a single contact region between two vertically stacked containers.
US08800768B2 Clamshell packaging
A clamshell package includes a first clamshell portion having a first surface with a first edge, and a first chamber portion. A second clamshell portion is coupled to the first clamshell portion about a fold axis. The second clamshell portion has a second surface with a second edge, and a second chamber portion. A paper card includes a first card portion, a second card portion, and a connecting portion connecting the first card portion and the second card portion. The first card portion is coupled to the first surface. The second portion is coupled to the second surface. The first edge and second edge extend beyond a perimeter of the paper card. A hanging hole extends through the first clamshell portion, the second clamshell portion, and the paper card.
US08800766B2 Sharps container for removing and containing blades from round scalpel handles
A method and apparatus for removing and containing a blade from a round scalpel handle comprising a sharps container having a wall portion that defines one side of a containment volume; a slot of a first type having a length and width dimensioned to receive a blade mounted around scalpel handle and prevent its rotation, the slot of the first type formed through the wall portion of the sharps container which slot allows rotation of the handle so the blade becomes disengaged from the handle and disposed in the containment volume.
US08800763B2 Device case and mounting apparatus
A multi-function case and support for an electronic device, such as a tablet computer. The case may be adapted to support the tablet in a variety of configurations, such as similar to a laptop computer configuration, and as a raised support. The case may also protect the electronic device from rough contact and other wear. In the raised support configuration, the case and support may be adapted to allow for rotation of the tablet from a landscape to a portrait attitude.
US08800761B2 Container for consumer goods
The current invention relates to a container (1) comprising a wrapped bundle of consumer goods housed within a box wherein the box further comprises a box bottom wall (11), a first box side wall (101), a second box side wall (100), a box back wall (10) and a box front wall (10) and wherein the container further comprises a lid (13), wherein the lid is hingedly connected to the box across a hinge line, and wherein the lid further comprises a lid top wall, a first lid side wall, a second lid side wall, a lid back wall and a lid front wall (132), and wherein the container comprises at least one wavy surface (104a) bounded by two undulating outlines (102a, 103a) wherein the at least one wavy surface is arranged between two adjacent walls of the lid or two adjacent walls of the box, such that the at least one wavy surface at least partially bridges the two adjacent walls.
US08800757B2 Lateral plate element for a link means included in a self-stacking endless conveyor belt
A lateral plate element (6, 6′) for a link means (4, 4′) for a self-stacking, helical endless conveyor belt (1), the lateral plate element, comprises an outer plate section (10), an inner plate section (20) and a bridging plate section (30) bridging the outer and inner plate sections (10, 20). The outer plate section (10) comprises a top subsection (11) extending in a first plane and wherein the inner plate section (20) comprises a top subsection (21) extending in a second plane, the second plane being offset, in an inward direction (A). The outer plate section (10) further comprises a bottom subsection (12) arranged in a bottom part of the outer plate section (10) and extending in a third plane being offset in the inward direction (A) with regard to the first plane. The lateral plate element further comprises a reinforcement (13) extending between the top subsection (11) and the bottom subsection (12) of the outer plate section (10).
US08800754B2 Conveyor system with interchangeable drive tube couplings
A conveyor system is provided that comprises at least two types of drive tube couplings that are interchangeable. In one embodiment, the conveyor system comprises a plurality of first drive tube couplings and a plurality of second drive tube couplings. The first drive tube couplings comprise a base portion and an elongated portion that extends from the face of the base portion. The second drive tube couplings comprise a coupling spacer and a coupler comprising an elongated member that abuts the face of the coupling spacer and extends substantially perpendicular thereto. In this embodiment the thickness of the base portion of each of the first drive tube couplings is substantially equal to the thickness of the coupling spacer of each of the second drive tube couplings.
US08800753B2 System for conveying an article using vortex suction units
A system for conveying an article along a transfer path includes at least a first and a second vortex suction unit disposed in sequence in a direction of the transfer path. A conveyor is configured to support the article relative to at least one of the suction units and a main controller is configured to separately control the vortex suction units so as to convey the article along the transfer path using the conveyor.
US08800752B2 Portable continuous feed delivery system and method of use
A portable feed delivery system can have a first feed container including a first conveyor apparatus that delivers feed to a second feed container, where a second conveyor apparatus delivers feed to a feed delivery conduit that can be directed by a user.
US08800751B2 Distributing device for separating particles in a particle stream
A distribution device for separating and orienting particles in a particle stream conveyed by the device to a particle-measuring device, including a conveying device with a discharge at one end for particles that are to pass in free fall to a downstream image-capturing device. At least two conducting elements are associated with the discharge and are movable relative to one another in that at least one of the conducting elements is movable under the effect of a drive mechanism. A feed gap is provided between the conducting elements for separated particles falling out of the discharge. The conducting elements are arranged in the manner of a funnel such that the feed gap is formed at an end of the funnel.
US08800745B2 Modular manufacturing line including work tool having work tool spray nozzle and method of operation therefor
A modular manufacturing line includes first and second modular manufacturing stations. Each station includes a framework defining a manufacturing space, and an overhead friction drive system supported on the framework for moving a suspended article through the manufacturing space. A control system is in communication with each drive system and is configured to simultaneously control a first article at the first station according to one operation pattern and control a second article at the second station according to a different operation pattern. A work tool including a work tool spray nozzle is positioned at the first station and is movable along a floor mounted work tool support track. The first article moves through an article pathway volume that intersects with a work tool pathway volume defined by the work tool movement.
US08800740B2 Method and device for sealing different oil environments
A method and device are provided for sealing a first oil environment, which is located on a first side of a movable piston guided in a hollow chamber, from a second oil environment, which is located on a second side of the piston. The piston can move back and forth in the hollow chamber between the two oil environments in the axial direction by a piston stroke length (d). Two annular seal elements are disposed around the movable piston so as to sealingly contact the inner circumferential wall of the hollow chamber. The annular seal elements are spaced from each other by at least a distance (D) in the axial direction that is greater than or equal to the piston stroke length (d).
US08800739B2 Spooling apparatus for survey wire
A spooling apparatus includes a spool for holding wire, the spool having a wire-retaining section and end plates, the end plates having one or more apertures. A conductive plate is positioned on an end plate of the spool opposite the wire-retaining section, and at least one conductive extension that extends through a corresponding aperture of the end plate such that the conductive extension is adjacent to the wire retaining section. Wire is spooled onto the wire-retaining section, at least a portion of the wire being uninsulated and in electrical contact with the conductive extensions of the conductive plate.
US08800737B2 Luggage with a crush proof compartment
A carrying case with a first enclosure ad at least one additional enclosure which includes a substantially rigid, and selectively removable protective compartment which must be oriented at a predetermined position for both insertion and selective removal. The selectively removable protective compartment may be adapted for isolated and secure storing of delicate or fragile items.
US08800731B2 Oil cavity for pendulum element (roller) of a centrifugal pendulum
A centrifugal pendulum in a torsional vibration damper of a drive train of a motor vehicle with a pendulum flange rotating about a rotation axis and several pendulum masses distributed over the circumference, disposed on the latter in a manner capable of swinging. When the internal combustion engine of the drive train induces massive rotational irregularities resulting from high vibration angles in these arrangements, the pendulum masses can be deflected more strongly relative to the pendulum flange and strike the provided swing motion limits. To prevent hard hits of the pendulum masses on the pendulum flanges, it is proposed to dampen the impact areas by hydraulic means and hence to achieve a soft impact.
US08800727B2 Wet disc brake system
A wet disc brake system is described which includes a housing assembly and brake callipers. The housing assembly is provided with openings for seating cylinders of respective brake callipers. The callipers are coupled to a structural component of a vehicle to which the system is fitted and in particular a flange of an axle housing. This enables reactive forces created during a braking operation to be transmitted via the callipers to the flange and axle housing rather than being carried by housing assembly. As the housing assembly does not bear any substantive load, it may be made of a relatively light weight construction or material.
US08800726B2 Dual-rotor force transmitting assembly
A dual-rotor force transmitting assembly includes a powerhead assembly having a spring housing, a plurality of first spring sets that generate a braking force for a first rotor and a plurality of second spring sets that generate a braking force for a second rotor. Using separate spring sets for each rotor ensures application of uniform and equal pressure on both rotors even if there is uneven friction surface wear.
US08800723B2 Elevator system having floors locked from receiving service
The present invention provides a solution for optimizing the transport capacity of an elevator system. For optimizing the transport capacity the elevator system dynamically locks floors served by it on the basis of defined locking rules. When a floor is locked, that floor can not be considered a designation floor or receive elevator calls.
US08800721B2 Elevator installation
An elevator installation includes an elevator cage carrier movable in a travel space provided for travel of the elevator cage carrier. Moreover, a first elevator cage and a second elevator cage are adjustably arranged at the elevator cage carrier and a drive unit arranged at the elevator cage carrier. In addition, an adjusting device with a first traction means and a second traction means guided in opposite directions around a drive roller, drivable by the drive unit, is provided. In that case the spacing between the first elevator cage and the second elevator cage is adjustable by movement of the elevator cages in opposite directions. An adaptation to different story spacings is thereby possible.
US08800706B2 Floorboard for a vehicle
A utility vehicle is disclosed having foot controlled pedals to operate the speed and acceleration of the vehicle. The utility vehicle may include a foot well in the floor board for locating the heel an operator's foot.
US08800702B2 In-wheel motor drive assembly
An in-wheel motor drive assembly 21 includes: a motor unit A; a speed reduction unit B having an output shaft 28 reducing the rotational speed of the motor rotary shaft 35 and outputting the reduced rotation and a speed-reduction-unit casing 22b forming a contour, and disposed on one axial side of the motor unit A; a wheel hub bearing unit C having a wheel hub 32 fixedly coupled with the output shaft 28 and a wheel-hub-bearing outer ring 22c rotatably supporting the wheel hub 32, and disposed on one axial side of the speed reduction unit B; and coupling portions 63, 64 secured to at least one of the wheel-hub-bearing outer ring 22c and speed-reduction-unit casing 22b to couple with members of a vehicle body.
US08800701B1 Electric vehicle with onboard electricity production
An internal combustion engine, an electricity production unit, batteries and an electric motor combine to provide for an extremely high mileage vehicle which has an extremely long driving range between the vehicle requiring re-fueling. Because the vehicle utilizes petroleum based fuel to power the internal combustion engine the vehicle can be fueled at any location which commercially provides petroleum fuels to the public. The electricity production unit electricity output while being powered by a very low horsepower internal combustion engine. Amplification of amperage and/or voltage of the electricity produced by the electricity production unit preferably occurs by passing the electricity through batteries prior to being utilized by the electric motor to propel the vehicle. Assemblies of the present invention may be easily installed at a very reasonable cost in existing vehicles.
US08800699B2 Drive arrangement for an electric vehicle
A drive arrangement for an electric vehicle has an axle drive device of a portal design with two electric machines for driving the wheels of an axle of the electric vehicle, and at least one electric energy store that can be discharged when an electric machine is operated as a motor and/or can be charged when an electric machine is operated as a generator. The drive arranged is characterized in that the two electric machines (11) of the axle drive device (10) are combined with a respectively assigned transmission (12) in an electric axle to drive the individually suspended wheels (2) of the axle by means of, in each case, one articulated shaft flange (13) via a respective articulated shaft. Frequency converters assigned respectively to the two electric machines are combined in a converter unit.
US08800696B2 Vehicle suspension system
A vehicle equipped with a double wishbones and double tandem members suspension system to suspend the vehicle, the double tandem members being operatively interconnected together and adapted to receive idling wheels adapted to support and guide an endless belt thereon to provide significant suspension travel and prevents an endless belt disengagement from the idling wheels. A suspension system and a kit thereof are also provided.
US08800695B2 Robotic vehicle
A robotic vehicle (10,100,150A,150B150C,160,1000,1000A,1000B,1000C) includes a chassis (20,106,152,162) having front and rear ends (20A,152A,20B,152B) and supported on right and left driven tracks (34,44,108,165). Right and left elongated flippers (50,60,102,154,164) are disposed on corresponding sides of the chassis and operable to pivot. A linkage (70,156,166) connects a payload deck assembly (D1,D2,D3,80,158,168,806), configured to support a removable functional payload, to the chassis. The linkage has a first end (70A) rotatably connected to the chassis at a first pivot (71), and a second end (70B) rotatably connected to the deck at a second pivot (73). Both of the first and second pivots include independently controllable pivot drivers (72,74) operable to rotatably position their corresponding pivots (71,73) to control both fore-aft position and pitch orientation of the payload deck (D1,D2,D3,80,158,168,806) with respect to the chassis (20,106,152,162).
US08800693B2 Polycrystalline compacts including nanoparticulate inclusions, cutting elements and earth-boring tools including such compacts, and methods of forming same
Polycrystalline compacts include non-catalytic, non-carbide-forming particles in interstitial spaces between interbonded grains of hard material in a polycrystalline hard material. Cutting elements and earth-boring tools include such polycrystalline compacts. Methods of forming polycrystalline compacts include forming a polycrystalline material including a hard material and a plurality of particles comprising a non-catalytic, non-carbide-forming material. Methods of forming cutting elements include infiltrating interstitial spaces between interbonded grains of hard material in a polycrystalline material with a plurality of non-catalytic, non-carbide-forming particles.
US08800691B2 Rolling cutter
A cutting element for a drill bit that includes an outer support element having at least a bottom portion and a side portion; and an inner rotatable cutting element, a portion of which is disposed in the outer support element, wherein the inner rotatable cutting element includes a substrate and a diamond cutting face having a thickness of at least 0.050 inches disposed on an upper surface of the substrate; and wherein a distance from an upper surface of the diamond cutting face to a bearing surface between the inner rotatable cutting element and the outer support element ranges from 0 to about 0.300 inches is disclosed.
US08800690B2 Down-the-hole drill hammer having a reverse exhaust system and segmented chuck assembly
A down-the-hole drill hammer is provided that includes a housing, a solid core piston mounted within the housing, a seal located between the solid core piston and the housing, and a backhead configured to exhaust working fluid volumes about a proximal end of the DHD hammer. The backhead includes a check valve assembly having a plug seal that can be moved to a closed seal position by gravity. A DHD hammer having a segmented chuck assembly is also provided. The segmented chuck assembly includes a plurality of chuck segments forming a cylindrical chuck assembly.
US08800683B2 Easy open liners for soil and sediment samplers
A system and method for an easy-to-open liner for use in connection with soil and sediment samplers, including direct push technology, rotary and coring systems, is disclosed. The liner is pre-scored along its length by one or more score lines formed in the exterior surface or the interior surface of the liner. After removal from the sampler, the liner can easily be opened to expose the contained sample without the need of cutting blades or other sharp objects, in accordance with health and safety requirements.
US08800682B2 Dust extraction for power tools
A power tool with a working head for holding a working element. The power tool includes a motor having a motor output shaft for driving said working element and a duct having an inlet locatable in proximity to a point of contact between the working element and a workpiece. A dust collection chamber has an inlet in fluid communication with an outlet from said duct, and an outlet in fluid communication with atmospheric air. A fan is operable to transport air from the inlet of said duct to the inlet of said dust collection chamber. A first drive wheel is mounted on the motor output shaft. A second, driven, wheel mounted on a second shaft and a drive belt connects the first, drive wheel to the second, driven wheel, for transmitting power from the motor output shaft to the second shaft. The fan is mounted on the second shaft.
US08800681B2 Fastening tool with an internal combustion engine with a unique opening and closing chamber abutment
The tool is to be used for driving fastening members into a supporting material. It comprises a cylinder (3), with a piston (5), a combustion chamber (1, 11), a cylinder head (12) bearing a fuel igniting means (36) in the chamber (1), a pin guide (9), for receiving a fastening member and the piston (5) shaft (7) and a cage (21). Return means are provided for opening the chamber (11), driving the pin guide (9) forwardly, opening and closing abutment means for the chamber (11). There are provided: one single central spring (32) for opening the chamber (11) and, on each side of the tool, one single opening and closing side chamber abutment (18, 55), integral with the chamber (11) and mobile in translation on the corresponding side of the cylinder (3).
US08800680B2 Trigger profile for a power tool
An improved method is provided for operating a power tool. The method includes receiving an input control variable from an input unit; determining a second derivative of the input control variable; selecting one of a plurality of control profiles based on the control input variable and the second derivative, each control profile correlating the control input variable of the input unit to a rotational speed at which to drive the output shaft; and driving the output shaft at a rotational speed in accordance with the selected control profile.
US08800678B2 Oil lubricant
An air tool or air motor lubricant for adding to compressed air, and the method of operating air tools with the lubricant, in which the lubricant comprises a mixture of a polyalphaolefin or polyalphaolefin blend having a viscosity in the range of 2 to 3000 cSt and a high molecular weight complex ester in a ratio of 1.3:1 to 20:1 of the polyalphaolefin or polyalphaolefin blend to the high molecular weight complex ester. The lubricant comprises about 58 to 90 vol % polyalphaolefin or polyalphaolefin blend and about 10 to 42 vol % high molecular weight complex ester. The mixture of polyalphaolefin or polyalphaolefin blend and high molecular weight complex ester is added in an amount in the air of about 0.2 to 0.6 ppm effective to generate a lubricant airborne mist concentration in exhaust air of 0.2 ppm or less.
US08800676B2 Hand-held aerosol fire suppression apparatus
The present invention relates to a novel hand-held aerosol fire suppression apparatus, comprising thermal insulating layer (3), inner cylinder (4), aerosol generating agent (5), heat insulating material (6), jet nozzle (9), tapered jet orifice (10), enclosure (11), ignition head (12) and piezoelectric crystal assembly (13), wherein the thermal insulating layer (3) is arranged between the inner cylinder (4) and the aerosol generating agent (5), and the jet nozzle (9) is screwed to the enclosure (11) by means of a thread structure that comprises 3˜6 thread segments. Compared to that in the prior art, with the segment thread design for screwing the jet nozzle to the enclosure, the time required for removing the jet nozzle can be reduced significantly, and therefore the apparatus in the present invention has much better safety feature against accidents.
US08800670B2 Filler rings for swellable packers and method for using same
A swellable packer with an enhanced sealing ability comprises a tubular body, a swellable element, and a filler ring disposed about the tubular body between the tubular body and the swellable element. The filler ring is formed of a material harder than the swellable element. The filler ring enhances the sealing ability of the swellable packer. Any number of filler rings may be used. The filler ring or rings may be fixed to the tubular body or may be unfixed.
US08800668B2 Partially retrievable safety valve
A method, system and apparatus is provided for a partially retrievable safety valve to control a well. The method includes securing a normally closed valve in the well. The valve may be a self-equalizing flapper valve. Following this, an actuator system operable to open the valve is run into the well. The actuator system is removable from the well while the valve remains closed and secured in the well. A submersible pump and motor may be secured to the actuator system before the actuator system is run into the well. The submersible pump and motor are also removable from the well while the valve remains closed and secured in the well. Therefore the actuator system, submersible pump and motor can be replaced or redressed, while the valve remains closed, keeping the well under control at all times.
US08800662B2 Subsea test tree control system
A subsea test tree control system provides operational control and power to subsea test tree equipment located within a subsea riser without an in riser umbilical to supply additional power to the subsea test tree control system. The subsea test tree control system includes a subsea horizontal subsea tree landed on a subsea wellhead, and a subsea control module communicatively coupled to the horizontal subsea tree. A subsea test tree stack is landed through the riser in the horizontal subsea tree. A subsea control module communication line extends through the horizontal subsea tree to terminate at a bore of the horizontal subsea tree proximate to the tubing hanger, and a riser string communication line communicatively couples to the subsea control module communication line to provide operational power and control the subsea test tree stack. Intervention workover control system umbilicals may bypass the subsea control module and directly connect to the subsea control module communication line.
US08800660B2 Debris catcher for collecting well debris
A downhole debris recovery tool including a ported sub coupled to a debris sub, a suction tube disposed in the debris sub, at least one magnet disposed in the debris removal tool, and an annular jet pump sub disposed in the ported sub and fluidly connected to the suction tube. A method of removing debris from a wellbore including the steps of lowering a downhole debris removal tool into the wellbore, flowing a fluid through a bore of an annular jet pump sub, jetting the fluid from the annular jet pump sub into a mixing tube, displacing an initially static fluid in the mixing tube through a diffuser, thereby creating a vacuum effect in a suction tube to draw a debris-laden fluid into the tool, flowing the debris-laden fluid past at least one magnet disposed in a debris housing, and removing the tool from the wellbore is also disclosed.
US08800655B1 Stage cementing tool
A mechanical stage cementing tool that includes a mechanical opening and closing seat sleeve and a pin sub. The mechanical stage cementing tool may be converted to a hydraulic stage cementing tool by inserting a hydraulic tube assembly into the mechanical opening and closing seat sleeve at a hydraulic modification area and by adding a hydraulic seat to the pin sub. The stage cementing tool has a running-in-hole position, an open position, and a closed position.
US08800650B2 Expandable tubulars for use in geologic structures
An expandable tubular includes a plurality of leaves formed from sheet material that have curved surfaces. The leaves extend around a portion or fully around the diameter of the tubular structure. Some of the adjacent leaves of the tubular are coupled together. The tubular is compressed to a smaller diameter so that it can be inserted through previously deployed tubular assemblies. Once the tubular is properly positioned, it is deployed and coupled or not coupled to a previously deployed tubular assembly. The tubular is useful for all types of wells and boreholes.
US08800648B2 Seal having stress control groove
A seal, in certain embodiments, includes a seal body having a groove on a face of the seal body. The face is configured to contact a surface of a separate component to form a seal. The groove interrupts continuity of the face between a first face portion and a second face portion. In addition, the groove enables material deformation laterally between the first face portion and the second face portion. Furthermore, the groove increases contact stress at corners between opposite walls of the groove and the respective first and second face portions.
US08800647B2 High speed swirling type centrifugal revolving pipeline device
A high speed swirling type centrifugal revolving pipeline device, which utilizes a spiral pipeline curling and revolving with different pipe radius and with different radius of curvature, comprising an inlet pipeline, at least two transport pipelines, and at least a pressuring and accelerating pipeline, to serve as transport pipeline for fluid to continue swirling up. At least a driving device is used to drive spiral pipeline. Spiral pipeline design and centrifugal force produced by high speed rotation are used to drive fluid to the highest water level swiftly and stably, to proceed with subsequent conversion of regenerated energy into electrical power.
US08800644B2 System for environmental management of a vehicle
A system and method for environmental management of a vehicle automatically operates a vehicle climate control system to defog a vehicle windshield, while still operating at or near environmental comfort guidelines determined by a vehicle occupant. The method may be executed by an HVAC control system that is configured with a preprogrammed algorithm to operate an HVAC to achieve the desired results. A number of sensors can provide inputs to the control system, which can also receive inputs from a number of manual overrides operable by an occupant of the vehicle. The preprogrammed algorithm is configured to act on the various inputs to operate the HVAC to strike an appropriate balance between occupant comfort and windshield defogging.
US08800639B2 Heat dissipation apparatus with heat pipe
An exemplary heat dissipation apparatus includes a number of fins and a heat pipe. Each fin defines a through hole therein. A collar extends from each fin at an edge of the through hole. The collar inclines toward a center of the through hole. An inner diameter of the collar gradually decreases along a direction away form the fin. A diameter of the heat pipe is larger than a minimum inner diameter of the collar when the collar in a natural state. When the heat pipe extends through the through hole of the fin, the collar is pushed by the heat pipe to expand outwardly, so that the heat pipe intimately contacts an inner face of the collar.
US08800636B2 Equipment for the removal of billets after casting
Equipment for the removal of billets (5) of aluminum after casting. The equipment lifts billets out of a casting pit (2) after the end of the casting cycle and transfers the billets to desired transport equipment (20) for transport on to a store or further treatment/processing. The equipment includes a lifting device (6) with a gripping device (21) to retain a number of billets. The lifting device is arranged so that it can move over the casting pit and lift and move the stated number of billets. A ramp (18) extends from the casting pit to transport equipment (20). The lifting device includes preferably a lifting frame that is U-shaped with legs (7, 8) that are connected to a step (11) and are arranged upright. Each leg is supported on its own wheeled chassis or wheeled bogie, while the step in the U-shaped frame connects the legs in a structure that is connected for strength.
US08800630B1 Tape dispenser device
A tape dispensing device dispenses and cuts tape to permit taping of elevated areas without a ladder or low areas without bending or kneeling. The device includes a first handle having an upper end and a lower end. A planar guard is pivotally coupled to the first handle. A retention spool is coupled to the guard wherein the retention spool is configured for holding a tape roll. A dispensing spool is coupled to the guard in spaced relationship to the retention spool. The dispensing spool is configured for abutting a back side of tape extending from the tape roll. The tape is dispensed onto a surface by rolling the dispensing spool against the surface with the tape being positioned between the dispensing spool and the surface. A cutting assembly is coupled to the guard and configured to selectively cut the tape extending from the tape roll.
US08800629B2 Tire ply applier
The invention provides in a first aspect an applier apparatus for applying a sheet of flexible material to a cylindrical body such as a tire building drum. The apparatus includes a support frame; a conveyor table having one or more conveyor belts mounted thereon; said conveyor table further comprising a plurality of support legs, each support leg having an outer leg portion and an inner leg portion, wherein each inner leg portion is mounted to the support frame, said conveyor table being connected to each of the outer leg portion of the support legs; the outer leg portion of each support leg having a first end slidably received over the inner leg portion and a second end connected to a nut; and wherein the nut is mounted onto a linear screw which is rotatably mounted onto a second end of the inner leg portion; said linear screw being driven by a motor wherein the nut is raised and lowered by operation of the screw.
US08800628B2 Self-propelled airship hull repair system
An airship hull repair system. The system includes a drive subsystem configured to move the system across an airship hull, a damage detecting subsystem configured to detect damage to the airship hull, a hull repair subsystem configured to repair the detected damage to the airship hull, and a magnetic coupling. The drive subsystem, the damage detecting subsystem, and the hull repair subsystem are included in an interior piece of the system configured to move on an interior of the airship hull and an exterior piece of the system configured to move on an exterior of the airship hull. The magnetic coupling couples the interior piece and the exterior piece to move together.
US08800627B2 Transfer medium manufacturing method, transfer method, transfer medium manufacturing apparatus, and transfer apparatus
A transfer medium manufacturing method for manufacturing a transfer medium in which a foil forming recording material containing metallic particles capable of being transferred onto a target has been applied to a base material includes: applying the foil forming recording material to the base material; and smoothing the surface of the foil forming recording material applied to the base material in the applying, the foil forming recording material being in a partially-melted state.
US08800626B2 System and method for making laminated sheets
A laminating system and a method of making a laminated product can include a roll of substrate material and a roll of film material to be laminated together to form a laminate. The system includes a sheeter station and, optionally, a breaker bar station and/or a registration station. The sheeter station is configured to cut the laminate at desired locations based on either signals received from the registration station or other system components. The breaker bar station is configured to remove any roll set curl that may reside in the laminate as a result of the substrate and/or film materials being fed to the system directly from rolls. The registration station is arranged, during an automated registration mode, to detect markings on the laminate and instruct the sheeter station to cut the laminate into individual sheets for subsequently processing into cards such as credit cards, gift cards, ID cards, etc.
US08800624B2 Pneumatic tire
A belt width of an intersecting belt 15a having the maximum belt width is set to 80% or more of the maximum width of a carcass line; a difference in belt widths between the intersecting belt 15a and an intersecting belt 15b is set in the range of 10 mm to 50 mm on one side of the belt in the width direction; the intersecting belt 15a is not narrower than the circumferential belt 14, and the circumferential belt 14 is not narrower than the intersecting belt 15b; and a pneumatic tire according to the present invention has an interposed rubber 16 having a thickness increasing toward the widthwise outer side of the tire to be 3 mm or more, and a side-lower rubber 17 having an elastic modulus less than the elastic modulus of a coating rubber coating the circumferential belt 14.
US08800622B2 System and method of using a friction increase device
A tire friction device utilizes a sub-frame assembly with a length adjustment assembly to grip a tire. Grip members are used to grip a tire. The grip members attach to the tire tread and/or tire side walls utilizing friction components. The grip members have friction components on their outer surface to provide additional friction for vehicle (e.g., car or truck) tires on surfaces such as snow, ice, loose gravel and mud that is easy to apply and remove from a tire.
US08800619B2 Tire
The present invention provides a tire in which generation of partial wear and groove cracks are suppressed. Specifically, the present invention provides a tire having in a tread surface thereof plural circumferential grooves extending in the tire circumferential direction, characterized in that: each of respective circumferential grooves disposed on the outermost side in the tire widthwise direction is designed to have a section in the tire widthwise direction, in which an angle formed by a groove wall on the outer side in the tire widthwise direction, with respect to a straight line tangent to a tread contour at the opening edge on the outer side in the tire widthwise direction of said groove, is larger than an angle formed by a groove wall on the tire equatorial side in the tire widthwise direction, with respect to a straight line tangent to a tread contour at the opening edge on the tire equatorial side in the tire widthwise direction of said groove; and each of said angles is in the range of 90° to 100° (inclusive of 90° and exclusive of 100°).
US08800614B2 Golf club head covers with a strap and methods to manufacture golf club head covers
Embodiments of club head covers having a pull strap and methods to manufacture club head covers are generally described herein. Other embodiments of club head covers having a pull strap may be described and claimed.
US08800613B2 Fluted woodturning tools with handles
A woodturning tool according to embodiments of the present invention includes a shaft with a shaft tip, wherein the shaft tip is made of a first metal, and a cutting edge insert, at least a portion of an outer surface of the cutting edge insert rigidly joined to an inner surface of the shaft tip, the cutting edge insert formed of a second metal, the cutting edge insert being fluted and sharpened to form a cutting edge for woodturning, wherein the second metal is different from the first metal, and wherein the second metal is more wear-resistant than the first metal.
US08800612B2 Container and package using the same
A container is provided that is used as a container permitting easy transfer into another container without spilling of contents at the time of work of refilling. The present invention relates to a container that is fitted in a container body of tubular shape having an open end, a bottom part and a side wall and that transfers contents into a preservation container. This container has: a funnel component (201) provided with a funnel (220) whose diameter decreases from a larger opening side toward a smaller opening side and provided with a plurality of ribs (228) that extend radially from the center of an opening part (222) on the smaller opening side of the funnel (220) so as to bridge a part with another part of the inner surface of the opening part (222) on the smaller opening side; and a container body.
US08800610B2 Filling device for filling containers
A filling device for filling containers with a liquid has a first port for supplying a first liquid to the filling device, a second port spaced from the first port for supplying a second liquid to the filling device A mixing chamber within the filling device includes a first liquid channel which guides the first liquid from the first port to the mixing chamber, and a second liquid channel which guides the second liquid from the second port to the mixing chamber, wherein the first liquid channel and the second liquid channel guide the first liquid and the second liquid separately from one another A valve body controls discharge of the liquids from the filling device through an outlet to the container. The valve body is disposed at least partially between the mixing chamber and the outlet.
US08800604B2 Hose having a low permeation rate, in particular a hose for a high temperature coolant, and method for producing same
A hose having a low permeation rate, in particular a hose for a high temperature coolant, having at least the following layer configuration: a barrier layer in the form of monofilm or multilayer film made of a polymer material; an inner layer that is placed on top of the barrier layer and is made of a polymer material having elastic properties; a reinforcement supported by the inner layer made of threadlike material, and an outer layer made of a polymer material having elastic properties, which protects against external influences. The reinforcement features a spiraled shape, specifically by forming at least two spiraled layers, wherein the area between two spiraled layers is free of an intermediate layer of a polymer material. In addition, the area between two spiraled layers is in particular free of a bonding agent. Further a method for producing such a hose is disclosed.
US08800601B2 Insertion and removal of inflatable pipeline flow stopper bags
An apparatus for fluid flow control, including flow stoppage, in a pipe having a saddle fitting with an axially extending outer launch tube and a coaxially aligned inner launch tube longitudinally split into two inner launch tube halves disposed within the axially extending outer launch tube. At least one inflatable flow stopper bag is disposed within the inner launch tube for stopping flow of a fluid through the pipe with which the saddle fitting is connected. An inner launch tube control rod for manipulating each of the inner launch tube halves during the inflatable stopper insertion and removal processes is connected with each of the inner launch tube halves, and a flow stopper bag control rod for manipulating the inflatable flow stoppers is connected with each of the inflatable flow stopper bags.
US08800599B2 Throttling valve and method for enlarging liquid droplet sizes in the throttled fluid stream
A Joule-Thompson or other throttling valve comprises an outlet channel (7) in which swirl imparting means (10) impose a swirling motion to the cooled fluid stream discharged by the valve, thereby inducing liquid droplets to swirl towards the outer periphery (7A) of the fluid outlet channel (7) and to coalesce into enlarged liquid droplets (17) which can be separated easily from a gaseous or other carrier fluid.
US08800598B2 Device for conveying fuel
Devices for conveying fuel are known having a conveying assembly and a pump holder holding the conveying assembly which has a receptacle for the conveying assembly and a holder connected to the receptacle via three damping elements. The damping elements damp the structure-born noise transmission from the conveying assembly to the adjacent components. The damping elements each have a cantilever section which projects starting from the receptacle into the region of the holder and runs in the radial direction and circumferential direction. The cantilever sections are designed as elastic spring arms, the axial deflection thereof in respect of a pump axis being able to exceed a maximum allowable value by means of external acceleration forces. The mechanical stresses occurring in the spring arms can lead to damage to the spring arms. In the device according to the invention, the damping elements have a strongly progressive spring characteristic curve in respect of an axial deflection such that a progressively increasing spring force in the damping element occurs with increasing spring travel of the pump holder. The axial deflection of the pump holder is consequently reduced over that of the prior art. According to the invention, an elastic spring section (15) connects on the cantilever section (12) which runs with the longitudinal extension thereof in the axial direction and in the circumferential direction in respect of a pump axis (2.1) and is connected to the holder (11).
US08800597B2 Fine control gas valve
A fine control gas valve includes a tee having opposed first and second tee runs co-axially aligned on a longitudinal axis, and a tee branch. A valve assembly is partially received in and connected to the first tee run having a valve disc connected to a drive screw longitudinally moved by drive screw axial rotation. The valve disc includes a first slot on the valve disc having a first end and a wider second end, and a second disc slot as a mirror image of the first disc slot oppositely positioned about the valve disc. A pipe in the second tee run has a first portion of a pipe end face/seat surface in direct contact with a second tee run shoulder. The valve disc when contacting a second portion of the pipe end face/seat surface defines a valve closed condition. The first and second portions are co-planar to each other.
US08800594B2 Gas turbine engine fuel return valve and system
A fuel return valve and system includes a flow-level select and shut-off valve and a servo control valve. The flow-level select and shut-off valve includes a first fuel inlet, a second fuel inlet, a return-to-tank fuel outlet, and a valve element movable between a shut-off position, a mid-flow position, and a max-flow position. The servo control valve is coupled to the flow-level select and shut-off valve and is configured to control relative fluid pressures therein to selectively move the valve element to the shut-off position, the mid-flow position, and the max-flow position.
US08800592B2 Flow control device
In a flow control device 100, a comparator 40 outputs a first control voltage Vref based on a comparison of an instruction value signal Vi1 of the flow volume and a signal Vi2 according to the sensor output signal Vs. A feedback current generator 30 generates a feedback current Ifb according to a difference between the sensor output signal Vs and a signal Vi2 according to the instruction value signal Vi1. A feedback voltage generator 50 is a resister. A feed forward current generator 20 generates a feed forward current Iff according to the instruction value signal Vi1. A synthesis unit 60 generates a second control voltage Vdrv* obtained by adding to the feedback voltage Vfb a voltage according to a sum of the feedback current Ifb and the feed forward current Iff. The valve unit 90 is controlled according to the first and the second control voltage Vref, Vdrv*.
US08800591B2 Battery spill containment trays, battery spill containment systems, and methods of battery spill containment
Battery spill containment trays, battery spill containment systems, and methods of battery spill containment are provided. A spill containment system includes a tray mountable on a rack and including a support surface for supporting a device thereon; and an absorbent member removably installed on the tray below the support surface and configured to absorb a spilled substance of the device.
US08800590B2 Thermally-actuated gas lift safety valve
In one embodiment, a valve comprising a valve body; an orifice disposed within the valve body; a fluid flow restraining member located at a first location of the orifice, the fluid flow restraining member pivotable between a closed position and an open position; an extending member connected to, and moveable in pivotable synchronization with, the fluid flow restraining member; and a shape memory alloy element attached to the extending member and the valve body, the shape memory alloy element causing a pivotal movement of the extending member between positions corresponding to the open and closed positions responsive to a change in temperature of the shape memory alloy element.
US08800589B2 Material gas concentration control system
An object of this invention is to provide a responsive material gas concentration control system that can be mounted on a bubbling system and that can control a concentration of a material gas in a mixed gas at a constant value even though a partial pressure of the material gas fluctuates. The material gas concentration control system is used for a material evaporation system, and comprises a body that is connected to an outlet line and that has an internal flow channel for flowing the mixed gas, a concentration measuring part that measures the concentration of the material gas in the mixed gas, and a first valve that is arranged downstream of the concentration measuring part and that adjusts the measured concentration measured by the concentration measuring part at a previously determined set concentration, wherein the concentration measuring part and the first valve are mounted on the body.
US08800583B2 Method of controlling fluid flow with an electronically activated access valve
A method of controlling fluid flow from a fluid source to a patient includes the step of mating a first connector comprising a first body with a first fluid passage therethrough and a conductive element disposed the first body to a second connector comprising a second body with a second fluid passage therethrough and two separated electrical contacts disposed on the body such that the two electrical contacts engage the conductive element when the first and second connectors are mated. The two electrical contacts are electrically coupled to a normally closed, electrically activated valve that is fluidically coupled to the second fluid passage and configured to open only when a circuit is completed through the two electrical contacts.