| Document | Document Title |
|---|---|
| US08808650B1 |
Foldable specimen rack with configurable specimen receiver
A foldable specimen rack includes a foldable box that moves from a closed, storage position to an open in-use position. The foldable box may include and open box and open bottom when the box is in the open position. The foldable specimen rack may also include a removable insert member situated adjacent the open top of the foldable box. The removable insert member includes multiple specimen holder receiving slots. Different removable insert members may includes slots that accommodate different size specimen holders. |
| US08808649B2 |
System for conducting the identification of bacteria in urine
A system for conducting the identification and quantification of micro-organisms, e.g., bacteria in urine samples which includes: 1) several disposable cartridges for holding four disposable components including a centrifuge tube, a pipette tip having a 1 ml volume, a second pipette tip having a 0.5 ml volume, and an optical cup or cuvette; 2) a sample processor for receiving the disposable cartridges and processing the urine samples including transferring the processed urine sample to the optical cups; and 3) an optical analyzer for receiving the disposable cartridges and configured to analyze the type and quantity of micro-organisms in the urine sample. The disposable cartridges with their components including the optical cups or cuvettes are used in the sample processor, and the optical cups or cuvettes containing the processed urine samples are used in the optical analyzer for identifying and quantifying the type of micro-organism existing in the processed urine samples. |
| US08808646B2 |
Wireless transmission of process data from within pressure vessels
A system collects data relating to a process performed within an autoclave, and wirelessly transmits the data to a receiver located outside the autoclave for processing. One or more sensors inside the autoclave sense process parameters such as temperature or pressure. The transmitter is housed in a protective container that protects the transmitter against the effects of autoclave heat and pressure. |
| US08808643B1 |
Fluidics platform and method for sample preparation and analysis
Herein provided are fluidics platform and method for sample preparation and analysis. The fluidics platform is capable of analyzing DNA from blood samples using amplification assays such as polymerase-chain-reaction assays and loop-mediated-isothermal-amplification assays. The fluidics platform can also be used for other types of assays and analyzes. In some embodiments, a sample in a sealed tube can be inserted directly. The following isolation, detection, and analyzes can be performed without a user's intervention. The disclosed platform may also comprises a sample preparation system with a magnetic actuator, a heater, and an air-drying mechanism, and fluid manipulation processes for extraction, washing, elution, assay assembly, assay detection, and cleaning after reactions and between samples. |
| US08808642B2 |
Microchip
Disclosed is a microchip. The microchip of the present invention is characterized by comprising: a first plate; and a second plate coupled to the first plate to form a channel, wherein the first plate comprises: a channel cover part; a first connection part spaced apart from the outer periphery of the channel cover part by a certain distance; and a tensile strength generation connecting part for mutually connecting the channel cover part and the first connection part so that the channel cover part elastically contacts the channel region formed on the second plate when the first plate is coupled to the second plate. According to the present invention, the channel cover part forming the channel elastically contacts the channel region formed on the second plate, thereby providing a microchip capable of providing a channel having a stable structure. |
| US08808636B2 |
Device for performing a chemical transformation in fluidic media
A device is provided for performing chemical transformation in a fluid, with a flow distributor having at least one fluid medium inlet, at least one fluid medium outlet, and at least one confinement wherein the chemical transformation is performed; and a means for rotating, rocking, wagging, or oscillating the device. At least one confinement may be equipped with a provision for providing heat, cooling, sound, light or other types of radiation, such provision being contacted to an external source through an actuator shaft. The flow distributor may be provided with sectors connected with the centrally located fluid medium inlet and a designated peripheral, fluid medium outlet. The means for rotating, rocking, wagging, or oscillating the device may be an element producing magnetic fields or a shall mechanically connected to an external actuating device. |
| US08808634B2 |
Lightweight, intrinsically safe ozone electrode
An electrode arrangement for an ozone generator with a tubular outer electrode, which concentrically encloses a tubular dielectric at a distance therefrom, wherein the dielectric concentrically encloses a rod at a distance therefrom and wherein a filler material is provided in the interstice between the outer electrode and the dielectric and another filler material is provided in the interstice between the dielectric and the rod, wherein the rod is an insulator. |
| US08808633B2 |
Silico-alumino phosphate, honeycomb structural body and exhaust gas conversion apparatus
A silico-alumino phosphate includes Si, Al, and P. A ratio of an amount of substance of Si to a sum of an amount of substance of Al and an amount of substance of P is approximately 0.22 or more and approximately 0.33 or less. An acid point is approximately 1.2 mmol/g or more. A honeycomb structural body includes a honeycomb unit. The honeycomb unit includes the silico-alumino phosphate and an inorganic binder. The honeycomb unit has a plurality of through-holes divided by a plurality of partition walls and arranged in a longitudinal direction of the honeycomb unit. An exhaust gas conversion apparatus includes the honeycomb structural body, a holding sealing member and a metal pipe. The holding sealing member is provided at an outer peripheral portion of the honeycomb structural body. The honeycomb structural body and the holding sealing member are installed in the metal pipe. |
| US08808632B2 |
Methods and systems for producing reduced resid and bottomless products from hydrocarbon feedstocks
The present invention is directed to the upgrading of heavy petroleum oils of high viscosity and low API gravity that are typically not suitable for pipelining without the use of diluents. The method comprises introducing a particulate heat carrier into an up-flow reactor, introducing the feedstock at a location above the entry of the particulate heat carrier, allowing the heavy hydrocarbon feedstock to interact with the heat carrier for a short time, separating the vapors of the product stream from the particulate heat carrier and liquid and byproduct solid matter, collecting a gaseous and liquid product mixture comprising a mixture of a light fraction and a heavy fraction from the product stream, and using a vacuum tower to separate the light fraction as a substantially bottomless product and the heavy fraction from the product mixture. |
| US08808630B2 |
Exhaust gas catalytic converter system and method for operating an exhaust gas catalytic converter
A method is disclosed for operating an exhaust gas catalytic converter designed to reduce nitrogen oxides in an exhaust gas flow using a solution that contains urea and that reacts to form at least ammonia in the exhaust gas flow. The method may include: introducing an amount of the solution containing urea upstream of the exhaust gas catalytic converter until an ammonia slip through the exhaust gas catalytic converter; determining a first actual value of the loading state of the catalytic converter with ammonia at the time of the slip; determining a first estimated value of the loading state at the time of the slip by means of a dynamic model for the loading; subsequently draining the ammonia from the catalytic converter; determining a second actual value of the loading state of the exhaust gas catalytic converter with the solution containing urea when the catalytic converter is drained as specified. |
| US08808629B2 |
Transfer unit for analysis devices
The invention relates to a transfer unit for analysis devices, containing a tube-shaped assembly which can be heated by an electric heater in a programmed manner, a tube (6) which is arranged in the sample chamber (18) and into which the end of a gas chromatographic separating column can be inserted at the end of said tube, and means for introducing carrier gas into the tube (6), said transfer unit being characterized in that a temperature sensor (8) is arranged in the ring chamber (5) between the inner wall of the assembly and the evaporator tube (6). The transfer unit can be a sample introduction device for a gas chromatograph having a sample introduction head (18), and the assembly can be a sample introduction chamber in which an evaporator tube is provided, wherein the end of a gas chromatographic separating column can be inserted into the end facing away from the sample introduction head (18). |
| US08808628B2 |
Device for measuring calories of food items based on near-infrared optical measurements using a plurality of light sources
A device for measuring calories of food items includes a food item holding unit on which an inspection-target food item including a plurality of food materials is placed, a light source for radiating near-infrared rays at a specific wavelength region to the food item, and a light reception unit that receives light emitted from the light source and then reflected from the food item. The light receiving device receives light reflected from the food item when the near-infrared rays at the specific wavelength are radiated to the food item. A control unit calculates calories of the food item in accordance with measurement values of absorbances of the near-infrared rays at the specific wavelength region which are received by the light reception unit. |
| US08808627B2 |
Assay plates, reader systems and methods for luminescence test measurements
Luminescence test measurements are conducted using an assay module having integrated electrodes with a reader apparatus adapted to receive assay modules, induce luminescence, preferably electrode induced luminescence, in the wells or assay regions of the assay modules and measure the induced luminescence. |
| US08808626B2 |
Amperometric immunosensor
An electrochemical immunosensor system with reduced interference, comprising: a first immunosensor that generates an electrochemical signal based on the formation of a sandwich between an immobilized antibody, a target analyte and a labeled antibody, wherein a portion of the signal arises from non-specific binding of the labeled antibody in the region of the first immunosensor, and a second immunosensor that acts as an immuno-reference sensor and generates a signal that is the same as or predictably related to the degree of non-specific binding which occurs in the region of the first immunosensor, and has an immunocomplex between an immobilized antibody and an endogenous or exogenous protein that is in the sample and that is not the target analyte. |
| US08808620B1 |
Sterilization process design for a medical adhesive
Medical devices, including medical adhesives, need to be sterile before application to a patient. A dry heat sterilization process can sterilize medical adhesives for patient application. The dry heat sterilization process can be validated for particular equipment arrangements and medical adhesives being utilized. |
| US08808619B2 |
Water-reactive Al composite material, water-reactive Al film, process for the production of the Al film, and constituent member for film-forming chamber
Provided herein are a water-reactive Al composite material which comprises 4NAl or 5NAl, as an Al raw material, containing, on the basis of the amount of the Al raw material, added Bi in an amount ranging from 0.8 to 1.4% by mass and Si, including the Si as an impurity of the Al raw material, in a total amount ranging from 0.25 to 0.7% by mass; a thermally sprayed Al film produced using this Al composite material; a method for the production of this Al film; and a constituent member for a film-forming chamber, which is provided, on the surface, with the thermally sprayed Al film. |
| US08808618B2 |
Process for forming an improved metal alloy stent
A method and process for at least partially forming a medical device that is at least partially formed of a novel metal alloy which improves the physical properties of the medical device. |
| US08808615B2 |
Tuyere for iron making furnace
A tuyere for an iron making furnace, including a body unit having a blast passage passing through a central axis thereof, wherein the body unit includes: a frusto-conical body having a main body cooling passage; and a protruding part protruding from the body, wherein the tuyere further includes: a cover unit combined with the protruding part and defining a tip body cooling passage between the cover unit and the outer circumferential surface of the protruding part; and an outer unit combined with the cover unit while surrounding the cover unit and defining an outer cooling passage therein. When the outer unit is partially damaged, although the cooling water supply to the damaged part is cut off, the function of the tuyere can be continuously performed both by the remaining part of the outer unit and by the body unit, thereby providing a tuyere having a lengthened life span. |
| US08808613B1 |
Method for manufacturing aluminum-titanate-based ceramic honeycomb structure
A method for manufacturing a ceramic honeycomb structure includes kneading titania particles, alumina particles and binder ingredient such that raw material paste including the titania particles, alumina particles and binder ingredient is prepared, forming a body made of the raw material paste and having a honeycomb structure such that the body has the honeycomb structure having multiple through-holes extending in the longitudinal direction of the body and multiple partition portions formed between the through-holes, positioning on a base having granules the body made of the raw material paste and having the honeycomb structure such that the granules are interposed between the body and the base, and sintering the body made of the raw material paste and having the honeycomb structure on the base with the granules interposed between the body and the base such that a ceramic body having the honeycomb structure is formed on the base with the granules. |
| US08808608B2 |
Electroblowing web formation process
An improved electroblowing process is provided for forming a fibrous web of nanofibers wherein polymer stream is issued from a spinning nozzle in a spinneret with the aid of a forwarding gas stream, passes an electrode and a resulting nanofiber web is collected on a collector. The process includes applying a high voltage to the electrode and grounding the spinneret such that an electric field is generated between the spinneret and the electrode of sufficient strength to impart an electrical charge on the polymer as it issues from the spinning nozzle. |
| US08808606B2 |
Molding apparatus and method
In a molding machine, an electrical current is caused to flow to a coil by a high-frequency power supply, and a magnetic field is generated, whereupon lines of magnetic force are generated so as to substantially conform to cavity faces of the stationary mold and the moveable mold. The magnetic field strength is constant with respect to position in the lengthwise direction of the coil, and eddy currents are generated uniformly with respect to the cavity faces. Because the molds have electrical resistance, Joule heat is generated by the eddy currents and electrical resistance, and the cavity faces are heated. When a material in a molten state is injected into the cavities of the heated molds, flowability of the material is promoted, and therefore the quality of the molded article is improved. |
| US08808605B2 |
Carbon fiber composite material and process for producing the same
The present invention provides a carbon fiber composite material comprising an elastomer and a carbon nanofiber dispersed in the elastomer, wherein the elastomer has an unsaturated bond or a group, having affinity to the carbon nanofiber. Also disclosed is a process for producing the carbon fiber composite material. |
| US08808604B2 |
Concrete pole and manufacturing method therefor
A method for manufacturing a concrete pole, includes steps of preparing a mold with PC steel bars; preparing a concrete composition comprising cement 19˜21 weight percent, Pozzolanic material 3˜5 weight percent, fine aggregate 25˜40 weight percent, natural stone aggregate 30˜45 weight percent, chemical admixture 0.3˜0.4 weight percent, inorganic pigment 0.4˜1.0 weight percent, and water 6˜7 weight percent; pouring the concrete composition into the mold; shaping the poured composition into a hollow pole; curing the shaped pole by steam at a temperature range from 75° C. to 85° C. from 6 to 8 hours; removing the mold from the cured pole; and grinding the outer surface of the pole so that the pattern and color of the natural stones are exposed on the outer surface. |
| US08808603B2 |
Consumable assembly for use in extrusion-based layered deposition systems
A consumable assembly comprising a container portion configured to retain a supply of filament, a guide tube connected to the container portion, and a pump portion connected to the guide tube. |
| US08808600B1 |
Methods for manufacturing barrier systems having a retained coupling pin
A method of manufacturing a barrier assembly includes: forming a barrier inside a mold using a polymeric material; removing the formed barrier from the mold while the barrier is still warm; inserting an elongated coupler into a passage on the barrier while the barrier is still warm, the coupler including a shaft and a securing member outwardly projecting from the shaft, the passage having a constricting portion, the warm constricting portion of the barrier pliably bending as the securing member passes throughthrough; and allowing the formed barrier to cool and harden, the hardened constricting portion of the barrier preventing or limiting the securing member of the connector from passing back through the constricting portion of the passage. |
| US08808599B2 |
Method of manufacturing damper assembly of refrigerator
Provided is a method of manufacturing a damper assembly. In the method, a case constituting an appearance of the damper assembly and having an open surface is molded, the case is inserted in a jig, the case is filled with a thermal insulating material to blow and mold the thermal insulating material, and a closing plate is coupled to the case to cover the open surface of the case. The closing plate contacts the discharge duct when the damper assembly closes the discharge duct. Accordingly, dimension stability, a defect rate, and sealing and insulating performances of the damper assembly are improved. |
| US08808598B1 |
MIFA (molding impression fabrication apparatus)
The present invention relates to a MIFA (Molding Impression Fabrication Apparatus) providing the practitioner a quick and accurate means to create an orthotic impression of a patients foot, leg, arm, and torso. Both traditional and intrinsic biomechanical correction modifications, may be incorporated as well. The patient can be placed back into the MIFA impression for immediate feedback of the modifications and changes. MIFA may also be utilized for direct forming to fabricate an orthosis directly to the patient. CAD/CAM scanning can be utilized with MIFA, to both compliment and refine the negative and positive impressions obtained from MIFA. |
| US08808597B2 |
Pan-based carbon fibers and fabrication method thereof and precursor raw material thereof
A precursor raw material for the PAN-based carbon fibers represented by Formula (I) is provided. In Formula (I), R is methyl, ethyl or propyl, x+z=0.5-20.0 mol %, z≧0.5 mol %, y=99.5-80.0 mol % and x+y+z=100 mol %. The invention also provides a PAN-based oxidized fiber and a PAN-based carbon fiber prepared by the precursor raw material for the PAN-based carbon fibers. |
| US08808595B2 |
Multilayer film for medical solution pouches having reduced proficiency for forming bubbles
The present invention provides a multilayer film for forming medical solution pouches that help prevent or reduce the presence of bubbles or foam in the solution after heat sterilization. In particular, the present invention provides a multilayer film for forming medical solution pouches that are capable of passing the bubble test as set forth in the Chinese State Drug Package Container Material Standard No. YBB00112005. In particular, the present invention provides a multilayer film in which polyamide 612 or calcium stearate component has been incorporated as an anti-foaming agent. The presence of polyamide 612 or calcium stearate in one or more layers of the film helps prevent the formation of foam in the solution after heat sterilization. |
| US08808590B2 |
Pelletizing device and method
Pelletizing device and method for pelletizing pelletizing materials having a pelletizing disk inclined to the horizontal and provided rotatable wherein the pelletizing disk is driven via a motor device. The pelletizing disk comprises a bottom and a side wall, the effective height of the side wall being variable. The side wall comprises an inner side wall device and an outer side wall device, the inner side wall device being disposed height-adjustable relative to the outer side wall device. |
| US08808586B2 |
Molded part and optical device using the molded part
A molded part prepared by a mold transfer method using a die, including a surface which includes a slope, wherein a direction of a normal line of the slope is different from a die releasing direction; and a pattern which is formed on the surface and which includes grooves located on a portion of the slope so as to extend along the slope in the slanting direction of the slope. An optical element, which has an anti reflection function, including the molded part mentioned above, wherein the interval between two adjacent grooves is not greater than the wavelength of light irradiating the optical element. An optical device including a light source configured to emit light; and the optical element mentioned above which processes the light emitted by the light source. |
| US08808581B2 |
Conductive compositions containing Li2RuO3 and ion-exchanged Li2RuO3 and their use in the manufacture of semiconductor devices
The present invention is directed to an electrically conductive composition comprising (i) an electrically conductive metal, (ii) a component selected from the group consisting of Li2RuO3, ion-exchanged Li2RuO3 and mixtures thereof, and (iii) a glass frit all dispersed in an organic medium. The present invention is further directed to an electrode formed from the composition and a semiconductor device and, in particular, a solar cell comprising such an electrode. The electrodes provide good adhesion and good electrical performance. |
| US08808578B2 |
Red phosphor, method for producing red phosphor, white light source, illuminating device, and liquid crystal display device
A red phosphor of high efficiency and a method for producing it are provided. A white light source and an illumination device that allow illumination with the pure white color using the red phosphor are also provided. In addition, a liquid crystal display device using the red phosphor and exhibiting good color reproducing performance is provided. The red phosphor contains an element A, europium (Eu), silicon (Si), carbon (C), oxygen (O) and nitrogen (N) in the ratios of the numbers of atoms of the following compositional formula (1): [Chemical Formula 1] [A(m-x)Eux][Si(9-y)Cy]OnN[12-2(n-m)/3] compositional formula (1) where the element A is at least one of magnesium (Mg), calcium (Ca), strontium (Sr) and barium (Ba), and where m, x and n in the compositional formula (1) satisfy the relationships of 3 |
| US08808573B2 |
Compositions and methods for selective polishing of silicon nitride materials
The present invention provides an acidic aqueous polishing composition suitable for polishing a silicon nitride-containing substrate in a chemical-mechanical polishing (CMP) process. The composition, at point of use, comprises about 0.01 to about 2 percent by weight of a particulate calcined ceria abrasive, about 10 to about 1000 ppm of at least one cationic polymer, optionally, about 10 to about 2000 ppm of a polyoxyalkylene polymer; and an aqueous carrier therefor. The at least one cationic polymer is selected from a poly(vinylpyridine) polymer and a combination of a poly(vinylpyridine) polymer and a quaternary ammonium-substituted polymer. Methods of polishing substrates and of selectively removing silicon nitride from a substrate in preference to removal of polysilicon using the compositions are also provided. |
| US08808571B2 |
Heat transfer compositions
The invention provides a heat transfer composition comprising (i) a first component selected from trans-1,3,3,3-tetrafluoropropene (R-1234ze(E)), cis-1,3,3,3-tetrafluoropropene (R-1234ze(Z)) and mixtures thereof; (ii) carbon dioxide (R-744); and (iii) a third component selected from 1,1-difluoroethane (R-152a), fluoroethane (R-161), and mixtures thereof. |
| US08808569B2 |
Use of ternary compositions
The invention relates to the use of compositions essentially containing 2,3,3,3-tetrafluoropropene, HFC-134a and HFC-32 in compression refrigeration systems comprising exchangers operation in counterflow mode. |
| US08808568B2 |
Magnetorheological materials, method for making, and applications thereof
A magnetorheological material comprises a magnetic particle and a ceramic material, wherein the magnetorheological material is in a dried form and further wherein a portion of the ceramic material is in the form of a nanocrystalline coating over the entire exterior surface of the magnetic particle and another portion of the ceramic material is in the form of a free nanocrystal. A magnetorheological material comprises a magnetic particle having a ceramic material coating over an external surface thereof as a result of a coating process, and a free nanocrystal of the ceramic material in the form of a residual by-product of the coating process. A sol-gel process for making a magnetorheological product comprises providing a sol of a desired ceramic coating material; combining a desired quantity of carbonyl iron (CI) particles with the sol to coat the CI particles with the ceramic coating material; creating a resulting quantity of nanocrystalline ceramic material-coated CI particles and a quantity of free nanocrystals of the ceramic material; and, drying the resulting quantity of coated CI particles and free nanocrystals to a moisture content equal to or less than 2 wt %. |
| US08808566B2 |
Composite magnetic material
A composite magnetic material is made by performing pressure compacting on metal magnetic powder to which a binding material is added, and the binding material contains an acrylic resin having a silyl group as a functional group. In addition, the composite magnetic material is subjected to a heat treatment at a temperature between 700 and 1,000° C. in a non-oxidizing atmosphere after the pressure compacting. The composite magnetic material has magnetic characteristics useful for electromagnetic components such as an inductor, a choke coil, and a transformer with a small size and at a high frequency. |
| US08808565B2 |
Nanoparticle having imidazolium salt chemically bound thereto, method of preparing the same, and nanogel electrolyte for dye-sensitive solar cell comprising the same
A nanoparticle to which an imidazolium salt is chemically bonded, a method of preparing the same, and a nanogel electrolyte for dye-sensitized solar cells comprising the same are disclosed. The present invention may provide a dye-sensitive solar cell with good economic feasibility, stability and photoelectric conversion efficiency using the nanogel electrolyte, wherein the nanogel electrolyte may reduce the concentration of ionic liquids and preparation costs while improving economic feasibility, long term stability, and photoelectric conversion efficiency. |
| US08808563B2 |
Selective etch of silicon by way of metastable hydrogen termination
Methods of etching exposed silicon on patterned heterogeneous structures is described and includes a remote plasma etch formed from a fluorine-containing precursor and a hydrogen-containing precursor. Plasma effluents from the remote plasma are flowed into a substrate processing region where the plasma effluents react with the exposed regions of silicon. The plasmas effluents react with the patterned heterogeneous structures to selectively remove silicon while very slowly removing other exposed materials. The silicon selectivity results, in part, from a preponderance of hydrogen-containing precursor in the remote plasma which hydrogen terminates surfaces on the patterned heterogeneous structures. A much lower flow of the fluorine-containing precursor progressively substitutes fluorine for hydrogen on the hydrogen-terminated silicon thereby selectively removing silicon from exposed regions of silicon. The methods may be used to selectively remove silicon far faster than silicon oxide, silicon nitride and a variety of metal-containing materials. |
| US08808558B2 |
System and method for alignment of nanoparticles on substrate
The invention provides a system and method for alignment of nanoparticles on a substrate. The system includes: a substrate; a plurality of polypeptide templates formed on the substrate; and a plurality of nanoparticles formed on the polypeptide templates. The method includes: providing a substrate; forming a plurality of polypeptide templates on the substrate; and forming a plurality of nanoparticles on the polypeptide templates. |
| US08808553B2 |
Process for producing a liquid ejection head
A process for producing a liquid ejection head including a silicon substrate having a first surface and a second surface that is a surface on an opposite side to the first surface, an ejection energy generating element which is formed on a side of the first surface side and generates energy for ejecting a liquid, a cavity formed in the second surface and a liquid supply port which is formed in a bottom part of the cavity and communicates with the first surface, including, in the following order: (1) forming the cavity in the second surface of the silicon substrate by a first crystal anisotropic etching; (2) forming a chemical leading hollow in a slope of the cavity; (3) expanding the cavity by a second crystal anisotropic etching; and (4) forming the liquid supply port in a bottom face of the cavity by dry etching with the use of an ion. |
| US08808548B2 |
Magnetic separation apparatus and magnetic separation method, and wastewater treatment apparatus and wastewater treatment method
A magnetic separation apparatus, comprising: a separation tank to which wastewater containing flocculated magnetic flocs is supplied; a disk-shaped or a drum-shaped separator that adsorbs the magnetic flocs with magnetic force while being rotated, the separator being arranged in the separation tank; and a collection device that collects the magnetic flocs adsorbed by the separator, wherein the improvement comprises that a rotational direction of the separator in the wastewater in the separation tank is set to be the same as a flow direction of the wastewater flowing in the separation tank as well as a lower portion of the separator being under the wastewater in the separation tank. |
| US08808540B2 |
Module cleaning method
An aeration/backwash device (16) for use with a porous membrane filtration module (5) including one or more membranes (6) extending longitudinally between vertically spaced upper (7) and lower headers (8) into which the ends of the membranes are potted. The membranes (6) having a permeable wall which, in use, is subjected to a filtration operation wherein feed containing contaminant matter is applied to one side of the membrane wall and filtrate is withdrawn from the other side of the membrane wall. The aeration/backwash device (16) adapted to at least partially surround a portion of said membrane module (5) and including a communication chamber (17) having spaced through-openings (18, 19) in fluid communication with the chamber (17) and the membrane module (5). In use, gas is supplied to the chamber (17) and communicated to the membrane module (5) through the through-openings (18, 19) to aerate the membranes within the membrane module and liquid backwash is withdrawn from and/or fed into the membrane module (5) through the throughopenings into the chamber (17). |
| US08808537B1 |
Self-contained transportable water treatment system
A portable self-contained water treatment system. A raw water tank is provided which can be filled by a pump or by manually pouring dirty water into it. The raw water tank can also act as a chemical pre-treatment tank such that one or more pre-treatment chemicals can be added to the water contained therein. |
| US08808533B2 |
Process for selective reduction of the contents of benzene and light unsaturated compounds of different hydrocarbon fractions
Process for treatment of a feedstock, such as hydrocarbons that comprise at least 4 carbon atoms per molecule and that comprise at least one unsaturated compound including benzene, such that said feedstock is treated in a distillation zone, associated with a hydrogenation reaction zone, at least in part outside of the distillation zone, and an isomerization zone, so as to discharge—at the top of the distillation zone and at the bottom of the distillation zone—an effluent that is low in unsaturated compounds, whereby said process comprises the treatment of at least a second feedstock, comprising at least one unsaturated compound including benzene, at least partially directly injected into the hydrogenation zone that is outside of the distillation zone. |
| US08808532B2 |
Electrode compositions for use with analyte sensors
Embodiments of the invention provide amperometric analyte sensors having optimized elements such as electrodes formed from sputtered platinum compositions as well as layers of material selected to optimize the characteristics of a wide variety of sensor elements and sensors. While embodiments of the innovation can be used in a variety of contexts, typical embodiments of the invention include glucose sensors used in the management of diabetes. |
| US08808528B2 |
Electrolyte supply tanks and bubbler tanks having improved gas diffusion properties for use in electrolyzer units
Electrolyte supply tanks and bubbler tanks for oxyhydrogen gas generation systems are provided which eliminate the introduction of electrolyte and water into the induction systems of internal combustion engines. Both types of tanks are equipped with porous polyethylene gas diffusers which break up incoming gas into microscopic bubbles, thereby facilitating the absorption of electrolyte mist and droplets returning to the electrolyte supply tank and minimizing splashing of incoming gas in bubbler tanks. Air diffusers having an average pore diameter of about 70 μm are installed near the bottom of the electrolyte supply tanks, while air diffusers having an average pore diameter of about 35 μm are installed near the bottom of the bubbler tanks. |
| US08808526B2 |
Process for changing a spent anode
The process involves pouring a smothering powder onto a spent anode placed on a support to cover it, with the aim of limiting fluorinated gas emission by the anode. The support may include a temporary tank, pre-filled with powder and provided with an opening for discharging the powder towards the anode on the support. |
| US08808525B2 |
Cyanide free electrolyte composition for the galvanic deposition of a copper layer
A cyanide-free electrolyte composition for the galvanic deposition of a copper layer on substrate surfaces and a method for the deposition of such layers. The electrolyte composition comprises at least copper(II) ions, a hydantoin and/or hydantoin derivative, a di- and/or tricarboxylic acid or salts thereof, and a metalate of an element of the group consisting of molybdenum, tungsten and vanadium and/or a cerium compound. |
| US08808522B2 |
Method for forming oxide film by plasma electrolytic oxidation
A method for forming an oxide film by plasma electrolytic oxidation includes a first step of placing an anode, which is a substrate with a conductive nitride film, and a cathode into an electrolyte of which the temperature range is from 20° C. to 100° C., and a second step of applying a voltage ranging from 50 V to 1000 V to the anode and cathode to finally form an oxide film on a surface of the conductive nitride film of the anode. The oxide film can be formed more rapidly than the prior art and has excellent crystallinity. |
| US08808521B2 |
Intelligent control system for electrochemical plating process
A method and system are disclosed for controlling plating bath compositions. Speciation analyzers including HPLC and mass spectrometry are employed to separate, detect, identify, and quantify additives and degradation products. A control unit is linked to a plating bath interface, analyzer interface, and valves to control the flow of plating bath to an analyzer sampler and back to plating bath. For each degradation product, a response output is determined for at least one performance factor in terms of an additive equivalent amount that produces the same effect. A data processing unit receives concentration data for additives and degradation products from speciation analyzers and calculates an amount of each additive needed to replenish a used bath. As a result, the bleed-and-feed ratio for maintaining plating baths can be substantially reduced with significant productivity improvement and cost savings in terms of chemicals, chemical disposal, less down time and improved product quality. |
| US08808515B2 |
Heterocyclic nitrogen containing polymers coated analyte monitoring device and methods of use
The present invention is directed to membranes composed of heterocyclic nitrogen groups, such as vinylpyridine and to electrochemical sensors equipped with such membranes. The membranes are useful in limiting the diffusion of an analyte to a working electrode in an electrochemical sensor so that the sensor does not saturate and/or remains linearly responsive over a large range of analyte concentrations. Electrochemical sensors equipped with membranes described herein demonstrate considerable sensitivity and stability, and a large signal-to-noise ratio, in a variety of conditions. |
| US08808512B2 |
Electrolyzer apparatus and method of making it
An apparatus for the electrolytic splitting of water into hydrogen and oxygen gases is disclosed. The apparatus comprises: (i) a first hemi-enclosure; (ii) a second hemi-enclosure; (iii) a diaphragm electrode array positioned between the first hemi-enclosure and the second hemi-enclosure comprising: (a) a diaphragm, that passes ions and impedes the passage of gases, comprising a first side and a second opposed side; (b) a first plurality of electrodes in a first vicinity of the first side of the diaphragm; and (c) a second plurality of electrodes in a second vicinity of the second opposed side of the diaphragm; (iv) a fastener, for leak-tight fastening of the first hemi-enclosure, the diaphragm electrode array, and the second hemi-enclosure, whereby a leak-tight enclosure is formed; (v) contacts, for electrically powering the first and second pluralities of electrodes, and; (vi) pathways, configured to remove hydrogen and oxygen gases from the enclosure. |
| US08808506B2 |
Structured fabric for use in a papermaking machine and the fibrous web produced thereon
A papermaking machine for the production of a fibrous web including a plurality of rollers and a structured fabric moving along the rollers. The structured fabric includes a plurality of weft yarns and a plurality of warp yarns woven with the plurality of weft yarns to produce a weave pattern, the plurality of warp yarns being a plurality of paired warp yarn sets. Each paired warp yarn set including a first warp yarn and a second warp yarn. Within the weave pattern the first warp yarn forms a float over at least four weft yarns and weaves with a single weft yarn immediately adjacent with the float. The second warp yarn having an inverse pattern to the first warp yarn, with the second warp yarn weaving with another single weft yarn that is not adjacent to the single weft yarn with which the first warp yarn is woven. |
| US08808504B2 |
Cleaning apparatus
A cleaning apparatus includes at least one cleaning nozzle that generates and directs a high-pressure liquid jet towards a point of impact on a surface, such as a conveyor belt having a drying screen. A cleaning head has a main opening that faces towards the surface, a discharge opening and a wall with at least one inlet opening defined therein. The at least one cleaning nozzle is disposed outside of the cleaning head and is oriented such that the high-pressure liquid jet passes through the at least one inlet opening before striking the surface. At least one first compressed air supplying device is disposed outside of the cleaning head and is configured to steer liquid from the at least one cleaning nozzle, after it has struck the surface, towards the main opening of the cleaning head. |
| US08808500B2 |
Method for the use of oxidants for microbial control under reducing conditions
Microbial growth in an aqueous system containing borohydride residues is controlled by adding an aldehyde or aldehyde source, followed by adding an active halogen biocide. The active halogen biocide is preferably stabilized by an N-hydrogen compound. |
| US08808495B2 |
Modified diphenylmethane diisocyanate-based adhesives
Adhesive compositions using modified diphenylmethane diisocyanate are disclosed along with methods and articles using the adhesive compositions. The adhesive compositions are especially suited for making flexible laminates for use in food packaging. |
| US08808494B2 |
Bonding material, method, and structure
Disclosed is a bonding structure, including a heat dissipation substrate, a eutectic layer on the heat dissipation substrate, and a copper layer on the eutectic layer. The thermal dissipation substrate includes aluminum oxide, aluminum nitride, or zirconium oxide. The eutectic layer includes aluminum oxide, aluminum nitride, or zirconium oxide doped with zinc, tin, indium, or combinations thereof. |
| US08808479B2 |
Method of making and using shape memory polymer composite patches
A method of repairing a composite component having a damaged area including: laying a composite patch over the damaged area; activating the shape memory polymer resin to easily and quickly mold said patch to said damaged area; deactivating said shape memory polymer so that said composite patch retains the molded shape; and bonding said composite patch to said damaged part. |
| US08808477B2 |
Display unit and its manufacturing method
The invention provides a display unit which can realize reduction in thickness and weight of the display unit by omitting a void between a touch panel and a display panel, and its manufacturing method. Whole faces of the touch panel and the display panel are directly bonded together with an adhesive layer in between. The display panel has a structure wherein a driving substrate in which organic light emitting devices are formed and a sealing substrate are bonded together with an adhesive layer in between. The touch panel has a structure wherein a lower plastic film in which a transparent electrode is formed and a touch-side plastic film in which a transparent electrode is formed are layered so that the transparent electrodes are placed opposite. The display panel is constructed with only the driving substrate, and the organic light emitting devices are sealed by the touch panel instead of the sealing substrate. Therefore, thickness and weight of the display unit can be further reduced. |
| US08808474B2 |
Heat treatment of martensitic stainless steel after remelting under a layer of slag
A method fabricating a stainless martensitic steel, including electroslag remelting then cooling an ingot of the steel, then at least one austenitic thermal cycle heating the ingot above its austenitic temperature followed by a cooling. During each cooling: if the cooling is not followed by an austenitic thermal cycle, holding the ingot at a holding temperature included in the ferritic-pearlitic transformation nose for a hold time longer than sufficient for transforming the austenite into a ferritic-pearlitic structure in the ingot as completely as possible at the holding temperature; if the cooling is followed by an austenitic thermal cycle, before its minimum temperature falls below the martensitic transformation start temperature, the ingot is either held throughout the period between the two austenitic thermal cycles at a temperature above the austenitic transformation completion temperature on heating, or held at the holding temperature included in the ferritic-pearlitic transformation nose. |
| US08808467B2 |
Dishwasher
A dishwasher having a tub defining a wash chamber and at least one dish rack located within the wash chamber. The dishwasher also has at least one spray arm located in the wash chamber and at least one nozzle located in the wash chamber and configured to provide a spray of liquid into the dish rack. A diverter valve controls the supply of liquid from a liquid supply to the at least one nozzle. |
| US08808462B2 |
Dishwasher with a low-maintenance filter system
A dishwasher with a multi-step filter system includes a coarse filter and a micro filter for cleaning the rinsing solution and also includes a lye pump and a circulatory pump. The dishwasher also includes a comminutor arranged in the path of the flow downstream from the coarse filter for remains contained in the rinsing solution. |
| US08808461B2 |
Method and device for emptying the floor of a black liquor recovery boiler
A method for emptying a furnace floor from smelt in a black liquor recovery boiler when the black liquor recovery boiler is being shut down. The emptying can be started while smelt is still flowing in smelt spouts. The floor is emptied by sucking smelt from the furnace with a smelt eductor. A device for removing smelt and wash water from a furnace of a black liquor recovery boiler by means of suction. Negative pressure is generated in the device by conducting pressurized gas into a suction pipe of an eductor so that preheated pressurized gas is discharged in the discharge direction of smelt and wash water. |
| US08808452B2 |
Silicon film formation apparatus and method for using same
A method for using a silicon film formation apparatus includes performing a pre-coating process to cover a reaction tube with a silicon coating film, an etching process to etch natural oxide films on product target objects, a silicon film formation process to form a silicon product film on the product target objects, and a cleaning process to etch silicon films on the reaction tube, in this order. The pre-coating process includes supplying a silicon source gas into the reaction tube from a first supply port having a lowermost opening at a first position below the process field, while exhausting gas upward from inside the reaction tube. The etching process includes supplying an etching gas into the reaction tube from a second supply port having a lowermost opening between the process field and the first position, while exhausting gas upward from inside the reaction tube by the exhaust system. |
| US08808451B2 |
Reducing agent for the soluble chromate content of cement and methods for production thereof
The invention relates to a reducing agent for the soluble chromate content of cement and to methods for the production thereof, which comprise concentrating an used sulfuric acid, containing iron (II) sulfate, and separating the sulfuric acid from the obtained precipitate which contains iron (II) sulfate. |
| US08808449B2 |
Foamed concrete
A foamed concrete having a density from 100 to 800 kg/m3 including by mass relative to the total mass of the concrete: a cement; water; from 0.01 to 5% of a water-reducing agent, plasticizer or superplasticizer; from 0.45 to 5% of a foaming agent relative to the amount of water; from 0.01 to 5% of a water-soluble calcium salt; inorganic particles from 0.1 to 300 μm in size; the ratio of foaming agent to calcium salt being from 0.3 to 0.8; the foamed concrete including 10% or more by mass of slag. |
| US08808446B2 |
Composition for resist underlayer film and process for producing same
A composition for a resist underlayer film is provided. The composition has excellent storage stability and can form a resist underlayer film which has excellent adhesion to a resist film, can improve reproducibility of a resist pattern and is resistant to an alkaline liquid used in development and to oxygen ashing during the removal of a resist. The composition comprises a hydrolyzate and/or a condensate of a silane compound of the following formula (A), R1bR2cSi(OR3)4-a (A) wherein R1 is a monovalent organic group having at least one unsaturated bond, R2 individually represents a hydrogen atom, a halogen atom or a monovalent organic group, R3 individually represents a monovalent organic group, R1 is a group other than OR3, a is an integer of 1 to 3, b is an integer of 1 to 3, and c is an integer of 0 to 2, provided that a=b+c. |
| US08808444B2 |
Functionalized soybean compound, and coating composition employing the same
The disclosure provides a functionalized soybean compound, and a coating composition employing the same. The functionalized soybean compound has the chemical structure represented below: wherein, each n is independent and an integer from 1 to 10; each m is independent and an integer from 1 to 10; each x is independent and can be 1 or 2; and each R1 is independent and can be hydroxyl group, wherein i can be 1, or 2, j can be an integer from 4 to 60, R2 can be hydrogen, C1-3 alkyl group, or acrylic group, R3 and R4 are hydrogen, or R3 and R4 are linked together with the carbon atoms to which R3 and R4 are attached to form a saturated and unsaturated six-membered ring, and R6, R7, and R8 are independent and can be hydrogen, or C1-6 alkyl group. |
| US08808442B2 |
Soil stabilization compositions
Hydraulically applied fiber matrix compositions for use on soils include a water-soluble, crosslinkable, hydratable gum, and a compound capable of crosslinking the water-soluble, crosslinkable, hydratable gum. The compositions may further include hydrocolloids and mulch. The hydraulically applied fiber matrix compositions are useful for hydroseeding and soil stabilization. |
| US08808440B2 |
Ink composition, ink for inkjet recording and inkjet recording method
An ink composition containing at least three coloring materials of a first coloring material, a second coloring material, and a third coloring material, in which the first coloring material is a compound represented by Formula (Y) as described, the second coloring material is at least one compound selected from Group A consisting of compounds having a specific structure, in which the mass ratio of the content (% by mass) of the second coloring material in the composition to the content (% by mass) of the first coloring material in the composition is 0.001 to 1.0, and the third coloring material is a compound different from the first coloring material as described. |
| US08808438B2 |
Amorphous materials for use in phase change inks
An amorphous compound for use in phase change ink composition suitable for ink jet printing, including printing on coated paper substrates. In embodiments, the phase change ink composition comprises an amorphous compound and a crystalline compound which is derived from bio-renewable materials. The composition provides for a robust, rapid crystallization ink composition. |
| US08808437B2 |
Phase change inks containing quinacridone pigments and synergists
Disclosed is a phase change ink comprising (i) an ink carrier; (ii) a quinacridone pigment; (iii) a synergist of the formula or mixtures thereof, wherein R1, R2, R3, R4, R5, R6, R7, R8, R10, R11, and x are as defined herein; and (iv) a pigment dispersant; said phase change ink being a solid at about 25° C. |
| US08808436B2 |
Absorption cell and manufacturing method thereof
An absorption cell includes a first absorption layer formed of a first absorbent, and a second absorption layer formed of a second absorbent having a higher density than the first absorbent and coated on the surface of the first absorption layer so as to prevent generation of dust particles from the first absorption layer. The upper surface of the first absorption layer is coated with the second absorption layer formed of the high-density absorbent, thereby preventing generation of minute dust particles and thus preventing secondary contamination. |
| US08808431B2 |
Compact inertial gas-liquid separation system
A compact inertial gas-liquid separator including: a stratification mechanism including a first horizontal pipe and a second pipe having a larger diameter possibly slightly tilted with respect to the horizontal, for example of ≦10°, connected to each other by a suitable connection gate; a cylindrical body with a vertical development, on which the stratification mechanism is tangentially inserted, wherein the inertial gas-liquid separation is performed, in whose upper part an arrangement of finishing elements can be optionally inserted for further separation of drops of liquid entrapped in the gaseous stream; two outlets for the liquid stream and for the gaseous stream. |
| US08808429B2 |
Method for reclaiming of CO2 absorbent and a reclaimer
A method for reclaiming CO2 absorbing chemical(s) from a lean aqueous CO2 absorbent leaving a regeneration column (8), where lean absorbent (30) is withdrawn and flashed (31) to generate a vapor that is compressed (34) and returned into the regeneration column as stripper gas (37), where a part of the lean absorbent (20) is withdrawn and introduced into a reclaimer (21) in which the lean absorbent is boiled to generate a gas phase (23) that is withdrawn and returned into the regeneration column as reclaimed absorbent, and a liquid phase containing impurities (24), wherein the gaseous phase that is withdrawn from the reclaimer is compressed (34) together with the vapor part (33) from the flashing of the lean absorbent, to generate a pressure in the reclaimer that is lower than the pressure in the regeneration column, and a reboiler (11) for carrying out the method, are described. |
| US08808426B2 |
Increasing scales, capacities, and/or efficiencies in swing adsorption processes with hydrocarbon gas feeds
The invention relates to an increased efficiency high-capacity pressure and/or temperature swing adsorption process comprising: contacting a feedstream at a rate of more than 75 MSCFD with an adsorbent material under conditions sufficient for the adsorbent material to selectively adsorb at least one of the component gases in the feedstream, so as to form a first effluent; and selectively desorbing the adsorbed gas from the adsorption material, so as to form a second effluent The adsorption module can contain rotary valves both on the feed end and on the product end and a rotational member defining a central rotational axis, with the adsorption bed(s) oriented circumferentially thereto. The adsorption bed walls can be angled, the feed end cross-sectional area of the adsorption bed(s) can be larger than the product end, and/or the feed end rotary valve diameter of the module(s) can be larger than the product end. |
| US08808422B2 |
Method for increasing the penetration depth of an oxygen stream
A method and device are disclosed for automatically evaluating a delivery system in respect of the energy efficiency and emissions efficiency thereof. The method may include: determining a service level for the delivery system according to an energy intensity and an evaluation relevance of the particular delivery system, detecting energy data and emissions data of the delivery system corresponding to the determined service level of the delivery system, and calculating at least one indicator based on the detected energy data and emissions data and/or based on data for the energy management and environmental management of the delivery system for evaluating the delivery system with respect to the energy efficiency and emissions efficiency thereof. |
| US08808419B2 |
Method of integration of concentration-dehydration and aerobic air-drying of sewage sludge
A method of integration of concentration-dehydration and aerobic air-drying of sewage sludge comprises the following steps: (a) conditioning by an organic agent (3); (b) gravitationally concentrating (5) the residual sludge conditioned by the organic agent; (c) conditioning by inorganic agents (7); (d) mechanically dehydrating (8); (e) crushing and dispersing (10); and (t) aerobically air-drying (11). The method has the following advantages: (i) to improve the sedimentation performance of the residual sludge, thus improving the concentration efficiency of sludge, reducing the concentrating time and reducing the volume of the concentrating pool; (ii) to reduce the volume of the dehydrated sludge correspondingly, thus reducing the subsequent heat treatment load; (iii) to have low energy consumption for drying; (iv) the sludge granules moving at low speed during the drying process, thus being produced stably and securely without powder; (v) the dried exhaust air can reach environmental-friendly standard discharge after being washed by water; (vi) the output sludge granules are not compact, which is good for reclamation. |
| US08808418B2 |
Low temperature diesel particulate matter reduction system
A system for treating diesel exhaust is disclosed. The system includes a first filter including layers of filtration material positioned between layers of corrugated metallic foil. The metallic foil defines a honeycomb arrangement of longitudinal passageways from an upstream end to a downstream end and also openings for allowing exhaust to pass between adjacent longitudinal passageways of the metallic foil. The filtration material is positioned such that exhaust between the adjacent longitudinal passageways passes through the filtration material. The metallic foil also includes flow diverting structures to divert flow within the longitudinal passageways through the openings. A second filter is positioned downstream from the first filter. The second filter defines a honeycomb arrangement of longitudinal passageways. The longitudinal passages are selectively plugged adjacent upstream and downstream ends to force flow radially through walls between the longitudinal passages of the second filter. |
| US08808417B2 |
Air cleaner arrangements; serviceable filter elements; and, methods
An air cleaner arrangement or assembly is provided. The air cleaner arrangement includes a serviceable filter cartridge. The air cleaner assembly also includes an arrangement for positioning the filter cartridge into a preferred, sealing, orientation and for securing the filter cartridge in that location. Preferred serviceable filter cartridges are provided, as well as methods of assembly and use. |
| US08808415B2 |
Exhaust intake bonnet (EIB) for maritime emissions control system
An improved Exhaust Intake Bonnet (EIB) for an Advanced Maritime Emissions Control System (AMECS) includes a shroud carried by a rigid upper frame and a lowerable and raisable rigid lower frame. The upper frame includes a peak with a duct for receiving exhaust gasses captured by the shroud and winches for lowering and raising the lower frame. The shroud is expandable when the lower frame is lowered and collapsible when the lower frame is raised and has a cinchable base. The AMECS is joined to a ship by positioning the EIB over a ship's exhaust stack using a deployment arm. The shroud is then lowered over the stack and then cinched around the stack to provide a soft attachment between the EIB and the ship's stack. Later, the steps are reversed to separate the AMECS from the ship. |
| US08808414B2 |
Sialon sintered body and cutting insert
The present invention provides a technique of improving wear resistance of a Sialon sintered body. The Sialon sintered body has a Sialon phase including at least a β-Sialon and a 12H-Sialon among an α-Sialon, the β-Sialon and the 12H-Sialon. A ratio of a second Sialon total content, which is a sum of the contents of the α-Sialon and the 12H-Sialon, to a first Sialon total content, which is a sum of contents of the α-Sialon, the β-Sialon and the 12H-Sialon, is greater than 20% and not greater than 55%, and a ratio of the content of the 12H-Sialon to the first Sialon total content is not less than 2% and not greater than 55%. |
| US08808410B2 |
Hydrogen generator and product conditioning method
A hydrogen generator that includes a solid fuel mixture, a liquid reactant, a liquid delivery medium (LDM), a movable boundary interface (MBI), a reaction zone, wherein the MBI provides constant contact between a reacting surface of the solid fuel mixture and the liquid reactant delivered by the LDM to form the reaction zone, and a product separation media, fluidly coupled to the reaction zone by a fluid junction, that degasses a product. The hydrogen generator may further include auxiliary LDMs disposed throughout the hydrogen generator, wherein said auxiliary LDMs may be operated based on a ratio of the liquid reactant flow rate to the hydrogen generation rate. |
| US08808409B2 |
Rechargeable fire starter and long burning fuel
A method and apparatus is disclosed for a rechargeable fire starter and a long burning fuel. The disclosure relates to a rechargeable fire starter and long burning fuel. The rechargeable fire starter and long burning fuel may comprise an absorbent having a porous mineral, or a combination of one or more porous minerals along with wood pellets. The absorbent may then be saturated with a flammable liquid. This combination provides a rechargeable fire starter and long burning fuel that is relatively impervious to moisture. |
| US08808402B2 |
Arrangement for holding a substrate in a material deposition apparatus
An arrangement (1) for holding a substrate (10) in a material deposition apparatus, which substrate (10) has a deposition side (10a) upon which material (M) is to be deposited, and which arrangement (1) comprises: a shadow mask (20) comprising a number of deposition openings (Di); a support structure (30) comprising a number of surround openings (Si); and a support structure holding means (6) for holding the support mask (30) and/or a substrate holding means (5) for holding the substrate (10), such that the support structure (30) is on the same side as the deposition side (10a) of the substrate (10), and the shadow mask (20) is positioned between the substrate (10) and the support structure (30) such that at least one deposition opening (Di) of the shadow mask (10) lies within a corresponding surround opening (Si) of the support structure (30). |
| US08808397B2 |
Prostheses with mechanically operable digit members
A prosthesis (1) for providing at least one mechanically operable digit member. The prosthesis (1) has at least one digit member (3) extending generally tangentially with respect to a fixed worm gear wheel means (5) on a support member of the prosthesis and mounted for rotation about the worm gear wheel means axis (8). The digit member has a drive motor (7) operable to drive a worm means (13). The worm means (13) is in engagement with the worm gear wheel means (5) so that when the drive motor is operated, in use of the prosthesis, the digit member (3) moves around the worm gear wheel means (5), in which the worm means (13) is disposed outwith the digit member (3). |
| US08808396B2 |
Prosthetic foot structure
A prosthetic foot structure comprises a mounting case, a first curved flexible member, a second curved flexible member, an upper block, a lower block, and an elastic body. The first curved flexible member defines an opening. A plurality of bolts are provided for affixing the first curved flexible member to the mounting case. The second curved flexible member extends through the opening of the first curved flexible member in a direction generally opposite to the first curved flexible member. The upper block and the lower block are fastened together by a screw. The second curved flexible member is fastened to the lower block by bolts. The upper block, the lower block, and the second curved flexible member are mounted in the mounting case by a pin. The elastic body is placed against the second curved flexible member and snugly fitted in the opening of the first curved flexible member. |
| US08808391B2 |
Hip joint prosthesis
A femoral implant for fitting to a resected femur comprises a section having a frustoconical external form, a stem part extending away from the section to a distal end of the implant, and a femoral head extending directly away from the section to the proximal end of the implant. The implant could have the femoral head integral with the section, or as a separate component secured thereto, with the stem being a separate one piece component incorporating the section. |
| US08808387B2 |
Prosthetic joint
A joint prosthesis includes e.g., a femoral component and a tibial component. The medial and lateral condylar articular surfaces may have substantially uniform and equal radii from full extension to about 90° of flexion. From 90°, the lateral condylar articular surface has a smaller radius than the medial condylar articular surface such that the medial condyle gradually becomes increasingly more proud than the lateral condyle to facilitate internal rotation of the tibia at deep flexion. Also, the tibial articular component may include a post intermediate the medial and lateral compartments that engages a cam on the femoral articular component between the medial and the lateral condylar articular surfaces. The cam and post become congruent at flexion angles of approximately 70° flexion and mate symmetrically during the first 20°-30° of further flexion, and then mate asymmetrically at greater degrees of flexion to force internal rotation of the tibia. |
| US08808386B2 |
Modular apparatus and method for sculpting the surface of a joint
The present invention provides a modular device for restoring individual joint kinematics using minimally invasive surgical procedures. The modular implants include distinct components that include tethering means. The modular implants provide intraoperative surgical options for articular constraint and facilitate proper alignment and orientation of the joint to restore kinematics as defined by the individual patient anatomy. |
| US08808385B1 |
Mechanically-activated shape memory polymer spinal cage
Provided herein are shape memory polymer spinal cages including polymers with intended deployment at temperatures far below the onset of the glassy transition of the shape memory polymer. The described shape memory polymer spinal cages are adapted to be deployed by mechanical activation rather than thermal activation or activation by other stimuli. Thus, the shape memory polymers used herein are configured to have transition temperatures far above their temperatures of intended use, thereby requiring mechanical activation to recover stored strains. |
| US08808383B2 |
Intervertebral disc prosthesis having multiple bearing surfaces
An intervertebral disc prosthesis comprises a left prosthesis component and a symmetric right prosthesis component positioned in an intervertebral space. Each prosthesis component includes a superior vertebra facing surface, an inferior vertebra facing surface, and a substantially spherical bearing surface. The bearing surface is positioned between the superior vertebra facing surface and the inferior vertebra facing surface. The superior vertebra facing surface is provided on a superior endplate and the inferior vertebra facing surface is provided on an inferior endplate. The superior endplate is operable to rotate relative to the inferior endplate upon the bearing surface. Each prosthesis component further comprises an elastic member positioned between an endplate and the bearing surface. The elastic member may be substantially cylindrical with a plurality of resilient ribs. Flexion/extension, lateral bending, and torsional movement are allowed by a combination of endplate rotation upon the bearing surface and compression of the elastic member. |
| US08808381B2 |
Prosthetic intervertebral discs having rigid end plates with depressions in their inner surfaces and fibers between those end plates
Prosthetic intervertebral discs and methods for using the same are described. The subject prosthetic discs include upper and lower endplates separated by a compressible core member. The prosthetic discs described herein include one-piece, two-piece, three-piece, and four-piece structures. The subject prosthetic discs exhibit stiffness in the vertical direction, torsional stiffness, bending stiffness in the saggital plane, and bending stiffness in the front plane, where the degree of these features can be controlled independently by adjusting the components of the discs. The interface mechanism between the endplates and the core members of several embodiments of the described prosthetic discs enables a very easy surgical operation for implantation. |
| US08808377B2 |
Sacroiliac joint fixation system
A sacroiliac joint fixation fusion system that provides a method of fixation and fusion of the sacroiliac joint and a sacroiliac joint implant which upon placement within the articular region of the sacroiliac joint facilitates stability and fusion of the sacroiliac joint. |
| US08808374B2 |
Device for implanting a system for loading a cruciate ligament in a knee joint
A device for implantation in a bone is disclosed, wherein this device is a component part of a system, for controlled loading of the reconstructure anterior crucual ligament (ACL) of a knee joint. The device may comprise an outer body, which is provided with a damping mechanism between a distal end and a proximal end. Arranged inside the damping mechanism there is at least one securing element for fixing at least one thread which, at the proximal end of the device, is guided out from the outer body through an aperture in the base. |
| US08808372B2 |
Breast implant spacers for the treatment of periprosthetic breast implant infections
The present disclosure provides improved devices and methods to treat periprosthetic breast implant infections. |
| US08808371B2 |
Post-operative adjustment tool, minimally invasive attachment apparatus, and adjustable tricuspid ring
An implantable device system for controlling the dimensions of internal anatomic passages corrects physiologic dysfunctions resulting from a structural lumen which is either too large or too small. Implantable devices are disclosed which employ various mechanisms for adjusting and maintaining the size of an orifice to which they are attached. Systems permit the implants to be implanted using minimally invasive procedures and permit final adjustments to the dimensions of the implants after the resumption of normal flow of anatomic fluids in situ. |
| US08808367B2 |
Prosthetic valve delivery system including retrograde/antegrade approach
A device for implanting an expandable heart valve prosthesis at a valve annulus in a patient's heart includes an implantation device configured to extend from a first opening in the patient's body, through the patient's aorta, through a valve annulus, through an opening in a ventricle, and to exit through the patient's thoracic region. The device further includes a port having a hemostasis valve for providing access through the patient's thoracic region and into the ventricle and at least two interchangeable modules configured for delivery using the implantation device. |
| US08808366B2 |
Stent features for collapsible prosthetic heart valves
A prosthetic heart valve includes a stent having an expanded condition and a collapsed condition. The stent includes a plurality of distal cells, a plurality of proximal cells, a plurality of support struts coupling the proximal cells to the distal cells, and at least one support post connected to a plurality of proximal cells. The proximal cells are longitudinally spaced apart from the distal cells. Various strut configurations and connections of the struts to the proximal cells and of the proximal cells to the support post improve stent flexibility and reduce stress in the valve leaflets. |
| US08808365B2 |
Chemically and biologically modified medical devices
Biocompatible materials for use in vascular applications or for implantation have been engineered, combining human recombinant tropoelastin with other synthetic or natural biomaterials to form protoelastin. The materials can be in the form of elastin films on metal or polymer substrates, laminates of alternating polymer and elastin, blends of polymer and elastin, or elastin crosslinked with or tethered to polymer or metal. These are mechanically stable, elastic, strong and biocompatible (i.e., not thrombogenic and promoting adhesion of cells, especially human endothelial cells), not eliciting a foreign body response. Plasma polymerization of substrate is shown to enhance biocompatibility, especially when used to bind elastin or other protein to the substrate. |
| US08808363B2 |
Vascular prosthesis
A vascular prosthesis comprising a tubular shaped expandable ECM member and at least one anchoring mechanism. In one embodiment, the anchoring mechanism comprises proximal and distal single or dual-ring anchors. In one embodiment, the anchoring mechanism comprises a multiple-ring anchor. The anchors preferably comprise a biodegradable metal, such as magnesium. The anchors can also comprise a shape memory alloy, such as nitinol, and a cross-linked ECM material. In some embodiments, the ECM member includes a pharmacological agent. |
| US08808360B2 |
Apparatus and methods for conduits and materials
The present invention provides apparatus and methods for a conduit, such as an implantable conduit for a vessel. The conduit may comprise a main member and a side-branch member. The conduit may be implanted with the side-branch member initially disposed within the main member. When positioned, the side-branch member may then be extended from within the main member and into a vessel side-branch. The materials for the conduit may include circumferentially distensible and/or low recoil materials. The materials for the conduit may be constructed by various techniques and may include materials with enhanced flexibility and kink resistance. |
| US08808359B2 |
Catheter system for stenting bifurcated vessels
A catheter system and method are described for stenting a vessel at a bifurcation or sidebranch of the vessel. The catheter system includes a first balloon catheter, a second balloon catheter and a releasable linking device for holding the first and second balloon catheters arranged in a side-by-side configuration and aligned with one another along a longitudinal axis. The linking device allows the catheter system to be advanced as a unit and helps prevent premature or inadvertent dislodgement of the stent from the catheters, yet is releasable so that one or both of the balloon catheters can be released from the linking device and maneuvered separately from the rest of the catheter system when desired. The method utilizes the described catheter system for stenting bifurcated vessels using a modified “kissing balloons” technique. |
| US08808358B2 |
Vascular endograft
An endograft for a vessel having a vascular branch extending from the vessel is provided. The endograft includes a main body having a wall separating interior and exterior surfaces and adapted to be inserted within the vessel. The main body is characterized by a single proximal opening and two distal openings and at least one aperture extending through the wall. At least one stent is secured to the main body that upon expansion pressure fits the main body into the vessel. An open tunnel is secured to the interior surface of the main body around the main body aperture and secured somewhere along the tunnel length to provide fluid communication between the interior and exterior surfaces of the main body through the aperture and with the vascular branch in proximity to the main body aperture. The tunnel is readily formed independent of an expandable stent. Through the addition of further apertures and tunnels, an endograft is well suited for revascularizing the celiac, superior mesenteric artery and renal arteries for the treatment of a suprarenal aortic aneurysm. The insertion of a sleeve positioned partly within the tunnel and extending beyond the exterior surface of the main body into the vascular branch assures continued fluid flow to the vascular branch. The two distal openings are adapted to engage the iliac arteries. |
| US08808355B2 |
Stent graft having a closeable fenestration
A radially expandable stent graft 10 for placement in a lumen of a patient is disclosed. The stent graft 10 comprises: a prosthetic trunk 100 comprising a trunk lumen 110 there-through; a prosthetic branch 300 comprising a branch lumen 310 extending there-through, wherein the branch lumen 310 is in fluid communication with the trunk lumen 110 through a lateral opening 115 in the trunk lumen 110; a valve 150 comprising a fenestration 152 for providing temporary lateral access into the trunk lumen 110, the valve 150 positioned opposite the lateral opening 115 in the trunk lumen 110; and a valve actuator. The valve actuator closes the fenestration 152 as the stent graft 10 expands. |
| US08808354B2 |
Helical stent
A stent for insertion in a fluid conduit of a human or animal body includes a hollow structure having generally circumferentially extending parts which have opposite end portions in the longitudinal direction. The circumferential parts are joined to a longitudinally adjacent circumferential parts along the length of the hollow structure wherein the end portions of adjacent circumferential parts are not in parallel planes and/or the end portions of the same part are not in parallel planes. Also, the non-parallel end portions are arranged along the length of the hollow structure such that a flow lumen defined by the hollow structure, and imposed on the flow lumen by the hollow structure when in the fluid conduit, follows a non-planar curve. |
| US08808353B2 |
Crush recoverable polymer scaffolds having a low crossing profile
A medical device includes a polymer scaffold crimped to a catheter having an expansion balloon. The scaffold, after being deployed by the balloon, provides a crush recovery of about 90% after the diameter of the scaffold has been pinched or crushed by 50%. The scaffold also has a reduced crimped profile and a modification of the scaffold's ring structure at the crowns that contributes to the reduced crimped profile. |
| US08808349B2 |
Controlled sequential deployment
A stent graft introducer (1) which includes a handle arrangement which by telescopic movement of a slide or slide portions (104, 106) into a handle portion (100) causes controlled sequential deployment of a stent graft (14). Stops (218,217, 218, 219) ensure actions are carried out in a selected order. A sheath (116) of the introducer is fixed to a slide portion such that with retraction of the slide portion the sheath is withdrawn from a stent graft retained on the introducer and at a selected position trigger wires retaining the stent graft onto the introducer are also released. Interconnections between the slides and the handle are provided to prevent relative rotation and re-extension after full retraction. |
| US08808343B2 |
Device for predicting a body temperature of a patient
A device (5) is provided for predicting or simulating a body temperature of a patient (P) at a point in time that is in the future. The device includes a device for determining parameter values concerning the patient (P) and/or the environment thereof. A computing device is provided for simulating a body temperature of the patient (P). A process and a workstation. Are also provided. |
| US08808341B2 |
Respiratory induction apparatus, respiratory induction program, and particle beam therapy system
The objective is to obtain a respiratory induction apparatus and a particle beam therapy system in which respiration can appropriately be induced by accurately evaluating the respiration. There are provided a respiratory induction control unit (7cC) that generates a desired respiratory signal (Rtj(t)) for respiratory induction; a real respiration measurement unit (7a) that outputs a real respiratory signal (Rrl(t)) obtained by measuring real respiration of a patient; and a respiration evaluation unit (7cE) in which by, as a unit, utilizing data of a single period (Tres) of the desired respiratory signal (Rtj(t)), there is calculated a pair of coefficients (a1 and b1), of trigonometric functions, which correspond to the 1st-order terms by means of Fourier series expansion of data of the desired respiratory signal (Rtj(t)) and data of the real respiratory signal (Rrl(t)), which is acquired in synchronization with the data of the desired respiratory signal (Rtj(t)), and there are performed comparisons between the respective gains (Gtj and Grl) and between the respective phases (φtj and φrl), which are obtained from the coefficients (a1 and b1), so that there is evaluated a misalignment of the real respiration from the desired respiratory signal. |
| US08808340B1 |
Device for repairing a bone fracture
A device for repairing a bone fracture that is inserted intrafocally and deployed to properly position the facture. The device includes an implant inserted intrafocally as a low profile fold and is then deployed to positione the fracture. |
| US08808339B2 |
Interlocking bone screw and washer concepts
The present disclosure provides a cannulated bone screw system including a screw with a threaded portion, a non-threaded portion, and a first plurality of teeth spaced apart from a screw head; and a washer with an interior portion with a second plurality of teeth and an opening and an outer portion with a plurality of spikes. The first plurality of teeth are on an inferior convex surface; wherein the second plurality of teeth are on a superior concave surface; and wherein the first plurality of teeth and the second plurality of teeth are operable to mate to prevent the screw from backing out of the washer while allowing the cannulated bone screw system to conform/pivot in order to accommodate different bone morphologies. |
| US08808336B2 |
Joint arthrodesis and arthroplasty
An implantable fixation system for fusing a joint between a first bone and a second bone. The system may include an anchor, standoff, bolt, and cortical washer. The system may be implanted across the joint along a single trajectory, the length of the system adjustable to provide compressive force between the anchor and the cortical washer. The system may be implanted across a tibiotalar joint with the anchor positioned in the sinus tarsi. A spacing member may be inserted between the two bones and the fixation system implanted to extend through an opening in the spacing member. The spacing member may be anatomically shaped and/or provide deformity correction. An ankle arthroplasty system may include a tibial plate, a talar plate, and a bearing insert. The plates may be anchored to the tibia and talus along a single trajectory. The ankle arthroplasty system may be revisable to a fusion system. |
| US08808334B2 |
Orthopedic plate
An orthopedic plate has a portion with a curved bottom surface that is designed to extend longitudinally along the bone and change the inferior curve as it advances proximally along the bone from a shallower to a sharper radius and further spirals downward as the plate advances. The plate includes a set of tabs, offset from the longitudinal axis of the plate to provide for better pullout values. The ears may be located at the terminal portion of the plate or somewhat more intermediate to the terminus of the plate, depending on the intended application. A point in the center of the central screw hole can be used to define the origin of the plate, and the angles of the screw and/or pegs holes can be referenced with Z, Y, and Z coordinates relative to this central hole. |
| US08808329B2 |
Apparatus and method for securing a portion of a body
An anchor connected with a suture is moved through a passage between opposite sides of a bone. The anchor is then pivoted to change its orientation. A second anchor is connected with the suture. While tension is maintained in the suture, the suture is secured against movement relative to the anchors. This may be done by tying the suture or by using a suture retainer to hold the suture. A suture retainer may be used in place of the second anchor. The passage may extend across a fracture in the bone. The passage may have either a nonlinear or linear configuration. The passage may be formed by first moving a thin elongated member through the bone. The thin elongated member is then used as a guide for a drill. The thin elongated member is withdrawn from the drill and the suture anchor is moved through a passage in the drill. |
| US08808325B2 |
Surgical stapling instrument with staples having crown features for increasing formed staple footprint
A staple having a crown, a deformable leg extending from the crown, and a spring extending from the crown configured to compress tissue between the spring and the deformable member. Owing to the flexibility of the spring, the staple can accommodate a wide range of tissue thicknesses while still compressing the tissue captured therein. As a result, a single staple design can be used in a wide variety of surgical procedures thereby reducing the amount of staple designs that must be provided to the surgeon. In at least one embodiment, the staple includes a crushable member. This crushable member can include a plastically deformable first portion and an elastically deformable second portion. The present invention can also include, in various embodiments, a crown, a first deformable member extending from the crown, and means for compressing the tissue against the first deformable member. |
| US08808322B2 |
Tissue expanders and methods of use
Tissue expanders and their methods of use. |
| US08808320B2 |
Devices and methods for arched roof cutters
Disclosed herein are tissue-removal devices and methods for treating spinal diseases using such devices. The tissue-removal devices may comprise a cable and/or extendable elements with a retracted and a deployed configuration. The cable and/or extendable elements may be distally supported and restrained by a support element such that the support element may be pushed transversely away when the extendable element is distally extended into its deployed configuration. An annular cutting element may be provided about the distal end of the extendable element or the support element. Various configurations of the extendable and support elements are described herein, as well as methods of using tissue-removal devices with extendable and support elements coupled by an annular cutting element for treating spinal diseases. |
| US08808318B2 |
Surgical probe with increased fluid flow
A surgical probe, e.g. a vitrectomy probe, and methods of making the same are disclosed. An exemplary surgical probe may include a tubular body and a cutting tool that is received within the body. The tubular body may define a cutting aperture that is adjacent a first end of the body and a fluid passage that extends through the body from the cutting aperture to a second end of the body. The cutting tool may be received within the body and disposed within the fluid passage. The cutting tool is generally configured to allow fluid flow through the cutting tool. The cutting tool may include a body portion and a blade portion that is configured to cut material entering the cutting aperture. The body portion may extend only partially about an inner circumference of the tubular body. |
| US08808316B2 |
Devices and methods for producing anastomoses
A device for producing anastomoses between a first hollow organ and a second hollow organ including a sheath and an adhesive applicator that can be positioned next to the sheath in order to apply an adhesive to the adhesive bonding section. A method for producing anastomoses between a first hollow organ and a second hollow organ includes folding the first hollow organ over a sheath, positioning the second hollow organ over the first hollow organ, producing a first connection between the hollow organs by applying a high frequency (RF) voltage, and producing a second connection between the hollow organs by applying a tissue adhesive. |
| US08808312B2 |
Methods and devices for the treatment of urinary incontinence
Methods and devices for treating female stress urinary incontinence are disclosed. The methods include transvaginally accessing the pelvic cavity and introducing a suburethral sling into the retropubic space. In some embodiments the ends of the sling are attached to an anatomical support structure. In other embodiments, the ends of the suburethral sling are not attached to an anatomical support structure. The devices include a surgical instrument for blunt dissection of the pelvic cavity which includes a curved shaft and a blunt distal end. A hook deployment device may optionally be attached to the surgical instrument. |
| US08808306B2 |
Instrumentation for recording and replicating orthopaedic implant orientation
An instrument for recording or replicating the orientation of an adjustable component of an implant with respect to a stem portion of the implant includes a base assembly configured to clamp the stem portion of the implant in a predetermined orientation, and a fixture supported on the base assembly in a predetermined orientation with respect to the base assembly, the fixture including a locking assembly configured to be adjusted in three dimensions and locked in a configuration which angularly locks an alignment tool relative to the fixture in the three dimensions when the alignment tool is engaged with the adjustable component and the adjustable component is operably assembled with the stem portion and the stem portion is clamped by the base assembly. |
| US08808305B2 |
Spinal fusion cage system with inserter
The present disclosure relates to a spinal fusion impactor tool that includes an attachment means for securing an implant device to the distal end of the tool, a means for adjusting the angle of the distal head relative to the handle to better position the implant for introduction into the implant site, means for remotely releasing the implant device at the distal end and a clamp device on the shaft of the tool to secure tabs, attachments and other devices. The impactor tool is preferably used in conjunction with implantation of an intervertebral fusion cage that is equipped with shims having tabs or other removing means, but may also be used to introduce, for example, an implant, graft, fusion device, wedge or distractor device into any joint space or bony region in preparation for implantation. |
| US08808303B2 |
Orthopedic surgical guide
A system for establishing an intramedullary path includes a body sized and configured to be received within a resected bone space. The body defines a first aperture that extends through the body and is sized and configured to receive a surgical tool therethrough. A first bone engaging structure extends from the body in a first direction and includes a first surface that is complementary to a surface topography of a first bone. When the first surface of the bone engaging structure engages the surface topography of the first bone to which the first surface is complementary, an axis defined by the first aperture is substantially collinear with a mechanical axis of the first bone. |
| US08808300B2 |
Guide assembly for use in a medical procedure
An assembly includes a guide component having (i) a base defining a first passageway, and (ii) a handle attached to the base, the base including a first coupling component. The assembly further includes a first sheath defining a second passageway, the first sheath including a second coupling component configured to cooperate with the first coupling component to couple the first sheath to the base. The first passageway is aligned with the second passageway when the first sheath is coupled to the base. The assembly further includes a stop structure defining a central passage, the stop structure including an external surface having a plurality of keyways defined therein. The first sheath includes a key member configured to be selectively received in any one of the plurality of keyways. The stop structure is fixed in relation to the first sheath when the key member is positioned in any one of the plurality of keyways. |
| US08808299B2 |
Devices, systems and methods for meniscus repair
Described herein are meniscus suture passers for repair of the meniscus of the knee. These devices are typically suture passers that may include an elongate body having a pair of arms. One or more of the arms may be angled or bent at the distal end region relative to the long axis of the device, forming a distal-facing opening that is configured to fit meniscus tissue. One or both arms may be movable in the axial direction (e.g., the direction of the long axis of the device). The devices typically include a tissue penetrating element housed within one of the arms but configured to extend across the distal opening between the arms. Thus, a suture may be passed from a first side of the tissue to a second side. |
| US08808297B2 |
Orthopedic surgical guide
A surgical device includes an elongate body extending from a proximal end to a distal end. The distal end of the elongate body defines a notch sized and configured to receive a reamer. A coupling assembly is supported by the elongate body and includes a reamer guide body disposed at the distal end of the elongate body. The reamer guide body configured to move between a first position and a second position in which the reaming guide body extends at least partially across the notch. A locking assembly is supported by the elongate body and is configured to releasably engage the coupling assembly to maintain the reamer guide body in the second position. |
| US08808295B2 |
Insert for a handheld ultrasound surgical device
An insert for a handheld ultrasound surgical device is disclosed. The insert comprises an interface to receive ultrasound vibrations and provide fluid to a channel within the insert. The insert also comprises a tip having a plurality of cutting elements disposed in a substantially circular configuration. Each of the cutting elements is disposed radially from the opening to provide a plurality of corridors that allows that fluid to pass from the opening to an edge of the tip. |
| US08808294B2 |
Method and apparatus for a multiple transition temperature implant
A shape-memory device manufactured from shape memory material includes multiple activation temperatures. The multiple activation temperatures arise from either the heat treatment of the device during manufacturing, or by combining different elements with different activation temperatures. To manufacture a shape-memory device with multiple activation temperatures, it is formed into a first shape. A first portion of the shape-memory device is heated to a first temperature, and a second portion of the shape-memory device is heated to a second temperature. The shape-memory device is then worked into a second shape. Accordingly, the first portion has a first transition temperature, and the second portion has a second transition temperature. In use, the shape-memory device is placed into a desired position. Energy is applied such that the first portion, second portion, or both portions are transformed. |
| US08808293B2 |
Trochanteric femoral nail augmentable
A device for bone fixation comprises a bone fixation nail extending from a proximal end to a distal end, the distal end having a helical structure configured to engage a bone, the proximal end having an opening extending thereinto and a first sleeve configured for insertion over a proximal portion of the bone fixation nail and through an intramedullary nail hole, the first sleeve permitting the bone fixation nail to move axially therewithin within a predetermined range of movement along with a locking screw configured to limit movement of the bone fixation nail relative to the first sleeve, the locking screw configured to lockingly engage the opening in the bone fixation nail and having a head and a threaded shaft extending distally therefrom. |
| US08808291B2 |
External fixator
A fixator for use in the reconstruction of acute, chronic and traumatic injuries to the upper and lower extremities. The fixator has a unique clamping system that allows for the snapping in of pins and rails, and for multi-planar fixation of bones. The claim system includes a hinge, a first clamp, and a second clamp. |
| US08808289B2 |
Coupling element for an external fixator
Coupling element for an external fixator which connects a pin or rod to a second pin or rod. The coupling element comprises a first coupling section to clamp the first pin or rod in engagement with a second clamp for clamping the second pin or rod and a pivoting section for adjusting the orientation of the first coupling section relative to the post section in the space. The pivoting section extends along a third axis. The first coupling section is rotatable around a first axis with respect to the pivoting section and wherein via the pivoting section the first coupling section is pivotable around a second axis with respect to the post section, wherein the second axis is arranged at an angle to the first axis. |
| US08808286B2 |
Surgical system
A surgical system includes a surgical instrument including a conducting section transmitting ultrasound vibration generated by an ultrasound transducer to a distal end portion and transmitting a high-frequency output signal to the distal end portion, an ultrasound drive section outputting an ultrasound drive signal to the ultrasound transducer, a high-frequency output section outputting a high-frequency output signal to the conducting section, a detection section detecting an ultrasound impedance of a surgical site to which ultrasound energy and high-frequency energy are provided from the distal end portion by outputting both signals simultaneously to the surgical instrument, a determination section determining whether the detected ultrasound impedance is in a predetermined range, and a control section performing control to increase a high-frequency output value by a first predetermined amount or decrease the high-frequency output value by a second predetermined amount when the detected ultrasound impedance is out of the predetermined range. |
| US08808284B2 |
Systems for navigating an instrument through bone
System and methods for channeling a path into bone include a trocar having a proximal end, distal end and a central channel disposed along a central axis of the trocar. The trocar includes a radial opening at or near the distal end of the trocar. The system includes a curveable cannula sized to be received in the central channel, the curveable cannula comprising a curveable distal end configured to be extended laterally outward from the radial opening in a curved path extending away from the trocar. The curveable cannula has a central passageway having a diameter configured allow a probe to be delivered through the central passageway to a location beyond the curved path. |
| US08808279B2 |
Device and method for measuring an optical break-through in a tissue
The invention relates to a device for measuring an optical penetration that is triggered in a tissue underneath the tissue surface by means of therapeutic laser radiation which a laser-surgical device concentrates in a treatment focus located in said tissue. The inventive device is provided with a detection beam path comprising a lens system which couples radiation emanating from the tissue underneath the tissue surface into the detection beam path. A detector device generating a detection signal which indicates the spatial dimension and/or position of the optical penetration in the issue is arranged downstream of the detection beam path. |
| US08808276B2 |
Adaptive dispensation in a digestive tract
Systems and methods are described for implementing a bioactive material selection from within a digestive tract and transmitting a wireless signal indicating at least the bioactive material selection from within the digestive tract. |
| US08808275B2 |
Catheter assembly comprising a receptacle accommodating a catheter and a wetting fluid pouch
A catheter assembly includes a catheter having on at least part of its surface a hydrophilic surface layer; a wetting fluid pouch including first and second layers of flexible material joined by a seal to form a sealed closure accommodating the wetting fluid; a receptacle forming a cavity for accommodation of the catheter and the wetting fluid pouch. The wetting fluid pouch is openable by compression of the wetting fluid pouch, thereby enabling the wetting fluid to be discharged into the receptacle. At least one of the first and second layers of the wetting fluid pouch extends beyond the seal of the sealed closure to form an attachment area outside the sealed closure, the wetting fluid pouch is attached to an inner surface of the receptacle, and the attachment being provided solely between the receptacle and the attachment area. |
| US08808273B2 |
Electrophysiology catheter with mechanical use limiter
A catheter for the treatment of tissue, particularly for the treatment of cardiac tissue to alleviate cardiac arrhythmias includes a connector having mechanical use limiter that may be placed in the handle of the catheter or at any point along the electrical connection pathway to an electro-anatomic mapping system and/or ablation system. The mechanical use limiter has a counter wheel and locking pin which when engaged disables the reconnection of the connector to any mated connector after a predetermined number of uses. |
| US08808269B2 |
Reservoir plunger position monitoring and medical device incorporating same
Apparatus are provided for infusion devices and related control systems and methods. An infusion device includes a voided portion adapted to receive a shaft portion that includes a shaft coupled to a plunger of a reservoir and a sensing arrangement proximate the voided portion to sense a detectable feature. A control module may determine a remaining amount of fluid in the reservoir or identify an anomalous condition based at least in part on the sensed position of the detectable feature. |
| US08808265B2 |
Pants-type disposable diaper
A pants-type disposable diaper 1 comprising: a diaper main body 2 having a front part P, a back part Q, and a crotch part R therebetween, and having a waist opening 3 and a pair of leg openings 4; an absorbent core 10 disposed at the crotch part R; a first elastic member 13 having a first crotch-crossing part 13A which extends intermittently across the crotch part R and a first leg opening edge part 13B which extends along edges 15 of a front side of the both leg openings 4; and a second elastic member 14 disposed continuously so as to be spaced from the first elastic member 13, and having a second crotch-crossing part 14A which extends across the crotch part R and a second leg opening edge part 14B which extends along edges 15 of a back side of the both leg openings 4. |
| US08808264B2 |
Sanitary napkin for dynamic body fit
An absorbent article providing improved body fit. The absorbent article includes an extensible fluid permeable facing layer and a first absorbent layer joined to the facing layer. Each zone of extensibility is a region of the first absorbent layer of relatively higher extensibility than regions of first absorbent layer adjacent to the zone of extensibility. A liquid impermeable backsheet is joined to the facing layer at the periphery. The liquid impermeable backsheet has a garment facing surface. A fastening means is disposed on at least a portion of the garment facing surface of the liquid impermeable backsheet. The fastening means defines attachment zones. At least a portion of the first absorbent layer is decoupled from the attachment zones of the fluid impermeable backsheet. |
| US08808263B2 |
Article of commerce including two-piece wearable absorbent article
A wearable absorbent article having features for the containment and absorption of bodily exudates. The article may comprise an outer cover and an absorbent insert. The outer cover may be formed of durable or semi-durable materials and be launderable. The insert may be disposable. The insert may have containment and absorption features that prevent soiling of the outer cover by the wearer's exudates, so that the outer cover may be reused after an exudation event and change of inserts. The insert and/or the outer cover may have features to enhance containment, absorption, economy of materials and/or fit that make them asymmetric about their respective lateral axes, and may have features that direct a user to install the insert and/or the outer cover with correct front-rear orientation relative the wearer. Articles of commerce including packages of outer covers and/or inserts in varying combinations of numbers and features are also described. |
| US08808262B2 |
Medical bra assembly for post-surgical breast reconstruction and cosmetic breast procedures
A medical bra assembly facilitates post-surgical care for a patient having undergone a breast reconstruction or cosmetic surgical procedure. The medical bra has a cup with an inside surface. The assembly includes (a) an absorptive skirt bandage attachable to a lower portion of the bra cup inside surface for absorbing secreted bodily fluids from a post-surgical patient's surgical incision, (b) a nipple tube bandage for encasing and absorbing secreted bodily fluids from the patient's reconstructed nipple, (c) a half-moon dome bandage interposable between the nipple tube bandage and the bra cup inside surface, which covers and protects the nipple tube bandage adhered to the patient's breast skin, and (d) an areola pad bandage interposable between the patient's breast skin and the bra cup inside surface for absorbing secretions from a re-pigmented tattoo region around the patient's reconstructed nipple when the bra is being worn by the patient. |
| US08808259B2 |
Suction device and dressing
Some embodiments are directed to a system 10 for the application of topical negative pressure therapy to a site 18 on the body of a mammal. Some embodiments of the system 10 comprise a piston 22 and cylinder 24 device 12 having a self-contained power source for the generation of a reduced pressure and for aspirating the site 18. Some embodiments of the system 10 comprise a dressing 14 sealably surrounding the site 18 that can be operably connected to the device 12 by a conduit means 16 to apply the reduced pressure to the site 18. |
| US08808257B2 |
Methods and apparatus for pulsatile release of medicaments from a punctal plug
This invention discloses methods and apparatus for providing pulsatile release of active agents via a punctal plug inserted into a punctum. A tube is provided which may be inserted into a cavity of a punctal plug. One or more pulsatile delivery units are arranged in a generally linear fashion within the tube. The pulsatile delivery units include a core comprising the active agent and an encapsulation layer around the core. |
| US08808255B2 |
Drug delivery cuff
Embodiments provide a drug delivery cuff including a drug reservoir. In an embodiment, an integrated drug pump may be provided. A drug delivery cuff in accordance with an embodiment may be placed around any suitable vascular graft (e.g., ePTFE) or directly around any natural tissue conduit (e.g., perivascularly), at any position along the graft/conduit or overlapping a graft and conduit, either at the time of graft surgical placement or separate therefrom. |
| US08808247B2 |
Safety needle with positive flush
A needle assembly including a positive flush mechanism for use with a vascular access port. The needle assembly is configured to supply fluid to the port and to provide a positive flush to overcome negative pressures in the port that can potentially occur during withdrawal of the needle from the port. |
| US08808245B2 |
Powered irrigator for sinus cavity rinse with detachable reservoir
A powered irrigator for use in rinsing nasal cavities including a main body having a handle and fluid reservoir detachably coupled to one another, an outlet nozzle extending from a top end of the handle, a pump mechanism operably coupled to a power source, and a switch operably coupled to the power source for turning the pump mechanism on and off, and when the switch turns on the pump mechanism, fluid flows from the fluid reservoir into a first fluid coupling between the reservoir and the pump mechanism and into a second fluid coupling between the pump mechanism to the outlet nozzle. The reservoir includes a generally centrically body defining a cavity and at least two tabs connected to the cylindrical body and extending inwards therefrom. The at least two tabs operably connect the reservoir to the handle portion to releasably secure the reservoir to the handle portion. |
| US08808239B2 |
Syringe
A syringe includes a needle, a barrel and a push rod inserted in the barrel. The needle includes a needle seat, a stop ring fitted on an outer wall of the needle seat, and a check groove formed on the inner wall of the needle seat. The check groove is adapted to engage with a check rib on a core post of the push rod. A resilient plug is provided in the barrel. The resilient plug has a central through hole for insertion of the core post of a push head of the push rod. The push rod has a frangible point at a front end thereof. When the push rod is pulled backward, the needle is received in the barrel completely and the rear section of the push rod can be broken. |
| US08808238B2 |
Method of manufacturing balloon catheter and balloon catheter
A method of manufacturing a balloon catheter involves applying a first application liquid, which contains a hydrophilic coating material, to the outer periphery of a balloon which is disposed on an elongated catheter and is held in an expanded state; folding the balloon; and applying a second application liquid, which contains the hydrophilic coating material, to the balloon with the balloon folded. |
| US08808236B2 |
Balloon catheters having a plurality of needles for the injection of one or more therapeutic agents
There are disclosed apparatus and methods for treating tissue by delivering at least one therapeutic agent into the tissue. In one embodiment, the apparatus comprises a catheter and a balloon member disposed on a distal region of the catheter. A plurality of pockets are disposed on the balloon member, and a plurality of needles are associated with each of the plurality of pockets. The plurality of needles are configured to engage tissue when the balloon is in the inflated state, and further are configured to disperse a therapeutic agent from an associated pocket into the tissue when the balloon is in the inflated state. A first needle of the plurality of needles may comprise a length that is different than a second needle, permitting the delivery of first and second therapeutic agents to different depths within the tissue. |
| US08808234B2 |
Catheter assembly
A catheter assembly comprises a first catheter including a wall with an inner surface at least partially defining a lumen. A second catheter is connected to the wall of the first catheter and is disposed outward of the inner surface of the wall. The second catheter is at least partially covered by a sheath portion of the first catheter. |
| US08808232B2 |
Needleless delivery systems
A needleless injector including a body including a fluid chamber; an outer shaft extending from an outer shaft proximal end to an outer shaft distal end, wherein the outer shaft includes an outer shaft lumen to accommodate an injection shaft; an injection shaft located within the outer shaft lumen and moveable lengthwise and/or rotationally within the outer shaft lumen, wherein the injection shaft includes an injection shaft proximal end, an injection shaft distal end, an injection shaft terminus, and an injection lumen. The injector further includes an injection orifice at the distal end of the injection shaft and in fluid communication with the fluid chamber through the injection lumen; a pressure source in communication with the fluid chamber; and an optical device that allows viewing a location at a distal end of the device. |
| US08808230B2 |
Occlusion detection for an infusion pump system
Some embodiments of an infusion pump system include an occlusion detection system to detect when an occlusion exists in the fluid path between the medicine reservoir and the infusion site located, for example, on the user's skin. The occlusion detection system can be configured to self-calibrate in a manner that accounts for changes in environmental conditions, such as ambient temperature, pressure, or the like, so that the occlusion detection system provides reliable feedback to a user as to the occluded or non-occluded state of the medicine flow path. |
| US08808221B2 |
Systems and methods for removing ingested material from a stomach
When a patient is fitted with an external gastrostomy connection to the stomach, ingested food can be removed through the gastrostomy connection using a pump-based or siphon-based system to achieve weight loss. The process of removing ingested food can be improved by alternating the infusion of liquid into the stomach with the removal of material from the stomach. Optionally, stomach acid may be captured and returned to the stomach. Optionally, nutritional supplements or medicines may be added to the infused liquid. Optionally, a flush mount connectorized system with a built in valve may be used to simplify the interface with the gastrostomy hardware that remains installed in the patient. Optionally, the system may be configured to disable itself from further use after a triggering event (e.g., the passage of time or a predetermined number of uses) has occurred. |
| US08808219B2 |
Implant delivery device and methods thereof for treatment of ocular disorders
Implants and methods for treating ocular disorders are described. One method involves providing an elongated delivery device and an implant mounted at a distal end of the delivery device. An incision is formed in eye tissue and the implant is inserted the through the incision using the delivery device. The implant is implanted at a location communicating with a physiologic outflow pathway of an eye such that a distal end portion of the implant and a proximal end portion of the delivery device are relatively disposed in a non-linear orientation during implantation. In one method, the implant is non-linear after insertion. |
| US08808216B2 |
Apparatus for use with a protective cup
An apparatus for use with a protective cup is disclosed. The apparatus includes a plurality of support members which may position the protective cup in a preferred position relative to a user's body, and secure the protective cup in the preferred position. The plurality of support members may connect to the protective cup or a protective support configured to receive the protective cup. The apparatus may be configured to protect the user's groin region, such as the user's crotch area, pubic bone and genitals. The apparatus may also be configured to protect the user's buttocks or legs, such as the user's hips, thighs, shins or knees. |
| US08808205B2 |
Method and device for mechanical chest compression with optical alignment
Optical alignment for piston driven chest compression devices optimizes the application of chest compressions to a fixed location on a subject's chest and provides information regarding the depth and frequency of chest compressions. The targeting system records and may display some telemetry corresponding to any movement or “walking” away from the selected compression site as well as the depth and frequency of compressions. The targeting system is interconnected to the compression device controller and the targeting system provides warnings to operators if the compression components contact the subject outside a preset warning limit away from the selected compression site. The targeting system may also halt the compression device if the site of contact between the compression components and the subject is located outside a preset absolute limit. |
| US08808204B2 |
High-frequency operation apparatus and operation apparatus
A high-frequency operation apparatus includes a grasping portion for grasping a treatment target living tissue, an electrode for supplying a high-frequency current to the living tissue, a high-frequency current supplying section that generates the high-frequency current necessary for treatment, a cable section that transmits the high-frequency current, an impedance measuring section for measuring an impedance value of the living tissue, a detecting section that detects that the impedance value reaches an impedance threshold at a time when moisture in the living tissue starts to evaporate, a measuring section that measures an output time of the high-frequency current after the detection, a storing section that stores a set time, and an output control section that performs control for stopping an output when the output time of the high-frequency current reaches the stored set time. |
| US08808203B2 |
Capacitive uterine contraction sensor
A capacitive uterine contraction sensor includes an insulating substrate, a first electrode disposed on one side of the substrate, and a second electrode positioned on the first side of the substrate in a spaced relation to the first electrode. The second electrode is configured to move toward or away from the first electrode. The sensor may also include a conductive standoff sandwiched between the substrate and the second electrode for maintaining the second electrode in spaced relation to the first electrode. The conductive standoff is electrically coupled to the second electrode and electrically isolated from the first electrode. Alternatively, the second electrode may include a spring mechanism used in conjunction with a standoff to maintain the second electrode in spaced relation to the first electrode. The spring mechanism is electrically isolated from the first electrode and enables the second electrode to move toward or away from the first electrode. |
| US08808200B2 |
Surgical device and method of using same
A surgical system is disclosed. The surgical system comprises a housing, a surgical device and an adapter. The housing includes a distal end. The surgical device comprises, a cutting element extending from the housing at the distal end. The cutting element is selectively rotated and translated relative to a tissue biopsy area. The adapter is configured to selectively and detachably receive the surgical device. The adapter secures the surgical device thereto by at least one latching mechanism such that the surgical device is prevented from moving independently from the adapter. |
| US08808198B2 |
MRI compatible biopsy device with detachable probe
A biopsy device comprises a probe assembly and an obturator. The probe assembly comprises a cannula having a closed distal end configured to penetrate tissue, an open proximal end, a first lumen in fluid communication with the open proximal end, and a side aperture located proximal to the closed distal end. The side aperture is in fluid communication with the first lumen. The obturator is removably insertable in the first lumen through the open proximal end. The obturator is configured to substantially block the side aperture when the obturator is inserted in the first lumen. The probe assembly may be inserted in a patient's tissue (e.g., breast) with the obturator disposed in the cannula to block the side aperture. The obturator may then be removed, and a cutter may be advanced through the cannula to sever tissue protruding through the side aperture. |
| US08808195B2 |
Eye-tracking method and system for screening human diseases
This invention provides methods, system, and apparatus for assessing and/or diagnosing a neurobehavioural disorder in a subject. The methods, systems, and apparatus include the subject freely observing a visual scene, without having to carry out a task or follow specific instructions. In one embodiment, a computational model is used to select one or more feature in a visual scene and generate a spatial map having first map values that are predictive of eye movement end points of a hypothetical observer relative to the one or more feature. A subject's eye movements are recorded while the subject freely observes the visual scene, and a difference between second map values that correspond to the subject's eye movement endpoints and a set of map values selected randomly from the first map values is quantified, wherein the difference is indicative of a neurobehavioural disorder in the subject. Neurobehavioural disorders such as Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer's disease, Huntington's disease, fetal alcohol spectrum disorder, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, schizophrenia, autism, Tourette syndrome, and progressive supranuclear palsy may be assessed and/or diagnosed. |
| US08808194B2 |
Methods and systems for endobronchial diagnostics
Methods and systems for targeting, accessing and diagnosing diseased lung compartments are disclosed. The method comprises introducing a diagnostic catheter with an occluding member at its distal end into a lung segment via an assisted ventilation device; inflating the occluding member to isolate the lung segment; and performing a diagnostic procedure with the catheter while the patient is ventilated. The proximal end of the diagnostic catheter is configured to be attached to a console. The method may also comprise introducing the diagnostic catheter into the lung segment; inflating the occluding member to isolate the lung segment; and monitoring blood oxygen saturation. The method may further comprise introducing the diagnostic catheter into the lung segment; determining tidal flow volume in the lung segment; determining total lung capacity of the patient; and determining a flow rank value based on the tidal flow volume of the lung segment and the total lung capacity. |
| US08808192B2 |
Signal extracting apparatus
A signal extracting apparatus is provided based on independent component analysis with reference for a single measured signal as a signal processing technique that allows stable and quick extraction of a target signal from single measured signal even in a high-noise environment with a high noise ratio against a target signal to be extracted. The signal extracting apparatus includes: a single-signal measuring unit to measure a measured signal as a single time-series signal containing a target signal obtained by measurement by a single channel; a reference signal creating unit (2) to create a reference signal provided with timing-axis information based on the time-series signal obtained by the single-signal measuring unit; and a main processing unit (5) to perform independent component analysis with reference for a single measured signal by capturing the reference signal obtained by the reference signal creating unit (2) and providing the timing-axis information for an algorithm in a reference system to extract an independent component. |
| US08808191B2 |
Non-invasive method and device to monitor cardiac parameters
A method of and a device for non-invasively measuring the hemodynamic state of a subject or a human patient involve steps and units of non-invasively measuring cardiac cycle period, electrical-mechanical interval, mean arterial pressure, and ejection interval and converting the measured electrical-mechanical interval, mean arterial pressure and ejection interval into the cardiac parameters such as Preload, Afterload and Contractility, which are the common cardiac parameters used by an anesthesiologist.The converted hemodynamic state of a patient is displayed on a screen as a three-dimensional vector with each of its three coordinates respectively representing Preload, Afterload and Contractility. Therefore, a medical practitioner looks at the screen and quickly obtains the important and necessary information. |
| US08808189B2 |
Blood pressure measurement device including cuff to be wrapped around measurement site
A blood pressure measurement device includes a wrapping strength detecting portion for detecting a wrapping strength of a cuff with respect to a measurement site. The wrapping strength detecting portion detects the wrapping strength of the cuff prior to calculation of a blood pressure value by a blood pressure calculation unit. That is, the wrapping strength of the cuff is detected based on a relationship indicated by a volume change ΔV12 of the cuff detected with a change in the detection pressure in the cuff wrapped around the measurement site from P1 to P2 and a volume change Δ23 of the cuff detected with change from P2 to P3 in a process of controlling the cuff pressure by a pressure adjustment unit. |
| US08808188B2 |
Body-worn system for measuring continuous non-invasive blood pressure (cNIBP)
The present invention provides a technique for continuous measurement of blood pressure based on pulse transit time and which does not require any external calibration. This technique, referred to herein as the ‘Composite Method’, is carried out with a body-worn monitor that measures blood pressure and other vital signs, and wirelessly transmits them to a remote monitor. A network of body-worn sensors, typically placed on the patient's right arm and chest, connect to the body-worn monitor and measure time-dependent ECG, PPG, accelerometer, and pressure waveforms. The disposable sensors can include a cuff that features an inflatable bladder coupled to a pressure sensor, three or more electrical sensors (e.g. electrodes), three or more accelerometers, a temperature sensor, and an optical sensor (e.g., a light source and photodiode) attached to the patient's thumb. |
| US08808187B2 |
Percutaneous needle guide and methods of use
An indicator element of a percutaneous needle guide for a medical scanning device includes a pointer for pointing to a percutaneous needle entry site on an epidermis of a body, when the guide is attached to the device and the device is positioned over the epidermis for scanning. A user may orient and insert a needle into the entry site according to the direction of the pointer, by just viewing the pointer, without the needle being constrained by the pointer. The guide may include an adjustment mechanism for moving the indicator element with respect to the device, when the guide is attached to the device; the adjustment mechanism moves the indicator element, without changing an orientation of the pointer, in a direction approximately parallel to a plane that is approximately tangent with an apex of the device transducer surface and approximately perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the device. |
| US08808186B2 |
Flexible debulking catheters with imaging and methods of use and manufacture
Catheters and methods for removing material from (or “debulking”) a body lumen while imaging the region comprised of the material are provided. The catheters can be used in body lumens, including but not limited to intravascular lumens such as coronary or peripheral arteries. The catheters include housings or other structures to mount or protect an imaging transducer. Generally, debulking catheters include a proximal portion, a distal portion having an opening, a cutting element which may be exposed through the opening to contact material in a body lumen and an imaging transducer with associated circuitry and display. The catheter debulks a body lumen when it is moved while the cutting element is in contact with the material in the lumen and the region comprised of the material is imaged before, after, or during catheter movement. |
| US08808177B2 |
Medical surgical device for treating coloproctological pathologies
A medical surgical device for coloproctological pathologies comprises a tubular body (2), provided with a first end (5), which can be inserted into the anal cavity, and a second end (6), opposite the first end (5) and connected to a handle (7) for maneuvering the tubular body (2) inside the anal cavity. A light source (8) for illuminating the inside of the tubular body (2) can be removably connected to the tubular body (2). Downstream of the light source (8) is located an entraining body (10) for entraining a portion of the light emitted by the light source (8) toward the inserting end (5). The entraining body (10) comprises a thickening (11) on the internal wall (3). |
| US08808175B2 |
Vaginal manipulator including light source
A vaginal manipulator includes a shaft, a handle connected to a first end of the shaft, and a head connected to a second end of the shaft. The head includes a rigid anterior surface that moves independently from a rigid posterior surface of the head. When the vaginal manipulator is inserted into a vagina, the rigid anterior surface is movable to displace an anterior wall of the vagina and the rigid posterior surface is movable to displace a posterior wall of the vagina. A light source is provided on the head. |
| US08808174B2 |
Surgical device having a port with an undercut
A surgical apparatus for positioning within a tissue tract accessing an underlying body cavity. The apparatus may include a seal anchor member comprising a compressible material. The seal anchor member may be adapted to transition between a first condition for insertion of at least a portion of the seal anchor member within a tissue tract and a second condition to facilitate a securing of the seal anchor member within a tissue tract and in substantial sealed relation with tissue surfaces defining a tissue tract. The seal anchor member may have proximal and distal ends and may define at least one port extending between the proximal and distal ends, the at least one port being adapted for the reception of an object whereby compressible material defining the at least one port is adapted to deform to establish a substantial sealed relation with the object. The at least one port may include an undercut to reduce the likelihood of leaks therethrough. |
| US08808173B2 |
Space ensuring device
In a pericardioscopic procedure, without providing an endoscope or surgical instrument with special space ensuring means and without unnecessarily dilating the pericardial space, a space necessary for operation of the endoscope or surgical instrument is ensured, so that maneuverability is improved while suppressing complications. Provided is a space ensuring device comprising: a pericardium pressing part for pressing a pericardium from the pericardial space side; a heart pressing part for pressing the surface of a heart from the pericardial space side; and an interconnecting part interconnecting the pericardium pressing part and the heart pressing part, wherein the interconnecting part generates the resilient force enabling expansion against a pressure applied by a pericardium and a heart so as to ensure a space between the pericardium pressing part and the heart pressing part. |
| US08808170B2 |
Multiple-channel endoscopic biopsy sheath
Embodiments of the invention provide devices and associated methods for use when performing endoscopic procedures. According to one aspect, a sheath positionable within a working channel of an endoscopic device, and adapted for receiving one or more instruments, is provided. The sheath can include a first channel and a second channel, the first channel and the second channel extending at least partially along a length of the sheath, wherein at least one of the first channel or the second channel includes an open edge open along at least part of the length of the respective channel. |
| US08808169B2 |
Steering system tension control devices
A steerable shaft of a medical instrument is steered by one or more control cables. The control cables are in contact with a steering system tension control device that reduces the tension in the control cables caused by bends in the shaft. |
| US08808164B2 |
Controlling a robotic surgical tool with a display monitor
In one embodiment of the invention, a method for controlling a robotic surgical tool is disclosed. The method for controlling a robotic surgical tool includes moving a monitor displaying an image of a robotic surgical tool; sensing motion of the monitor; and translating the sensed motion of the monitor into motion of the robotic surgical tool. |
| US08808161B2 |
Redundant temperature monitoring in electrosurgical systems for safety mitigation
A redundant temperature monitoring system and method for an electrosurgical system are provided. The temperature monitoring circuit includes at least one temperature sensor for sensing a temperature at a measuring point, a first temperature measurement circuit coupled to the at least one temperature sensor for generating a first temperature value, a second temperature measurement circuit coupled to the at least one temperature sensor for generating a second temperature value, and a control circuit for determining a difference between the first and second temperature values and for comparing the difference to a first predetermined threshold. If the difference is greater than the first predetermined threshold, the control circuit generates a warning signal. If the difference is greater than a second predetermined threshold, the control circuit generates an alarm signal and/or shuts down a power source of the electrosurgical system. |
| US08808157B2 |
Devices for assembling strands comprising radioactive seeds
A cartridge may include a housing configured to contain a plurality of like items and a track inside the housing. The track extends in a first direction, and a plunger may be slidable along the track in the first direction and configured to urge the items toward a first end of the housing. The cartridge may include a gate attached to the housing. The gate may be movable between a first position preventing the items from being removed from the housing and a second position allowing one of the items to be removed from the housing. The gate may be configured to remove the one item from being urged by the plunger. |
| US08808156B1 |
Minimally invasive applicator for intraoperative radiotherapy
The present invention relates to an applicator for delivering any of a plurality of predetermined radiation fields to a target in intraoperative radiotherapy. In a variant, the applicator comprises: a panel and at least one first pair of first and second grippers pivotally connected to the panel with each gripper having loop on an end. The loop is connected to an arm and the arm pivotally attached to the panel. The first and second grippers are configured to rotate in opposite directions to form an open position and come to a stopping point. The loops of the grippers are configured to slide under one another while rotating into a retracted configuration. Two end units are disposed on opposite ends of the panel, configured for being grasped by two independent graspers for fixing the applicator in position. |
| US08808152B1 |
Exercise resistance machine
An exercise machine that facilitates exercises for a user's abdominal area, inner and outer thigh areas, upper body, and back areas includes a frame and a plurality of height adjustable legs which allow a user to selectively provide a comfortable height or inclined surface for personal exercise. The apparatus further includes a movable sliding platform assembly providing adjustable resistance. A pair of knee pads is pivotally affixed to the movable platform assembly and allows independent motioning in respective arcuate paths to exercise the user's oblique muscles. When the knee pads are motioned separately, the apparatus exercises the user's inner thigh, outer thigh, and stomach muscles. Additionally, the movable features of the apparatus enable a user to exercise various other specific body areas. |
| US08808148B2 |
Elliptical exercise machine with declining adjustable ramp
An elliptical exercise machine includes a base support structure adapted to be positioned on a support surface. The machine includes first and second reciprocating foot supports, each foot support being movably linked to the base support structure. Additionally, a ramp assembly is situated on the base support structure, the ramp assembly having first and second guide rails for guiding the respective second ends of the first and second foot supports such that the foot supports move in an elliptical path when the elliptical exercise machine is operating. Moreover, a first support member is linked to the base support structure, wherein the first support member is pivotably linked to the ramp assembly at a point above the base support structure. Furthermore, a lift mechanism is linked on a first end to the base support structure and pivotably linked on a second end to the ramp assembly above the base support structure. |
| US08808147B2 |
Exercise device for pull ups
A foldable exercise device for performing chin up and pull up exercises has a first member having a hinge joint and a second member having a hinge joint. The device also has third and fourth L shaped members connected to the first and second members, with the fourth L member being spaced from the third L member. The first and second members pivot about a hinge joint from a folded configuration to an extended configuration. The third and fourth L shaped members extend from a folded configuration to an extended configuration about their respective hinged joints. The exercise device is transformed from a compact form when the third and fourth L shaped members are moved from the folded configuration to an extended configuration in a first position and separated in a second position to extend the first and second members from a folded to an extended position. |
| US08808137B2 |
Method for operating a drive train
A method of operating a drive train of a motor vehicle with a drive assembly which has a combustion engine and an automatic transmission with frictional shift elements positioned between the drive assembly and an output, namely for executing a traction upshift or a traction downshift in which at least one frictional shift element of the automatic transmission is engaged and at least one frictional shift element of the automatic transmission is disengaged. During execution of a traction upshift and at least, during the engagement procedure of a frictional shift element being engaged, reducing the torque provided by the combustion engine, and for executing a traction downshift at least during the lowering of the transferability of a frictional shift element being disengaged, reducing the torque provided by the combustion engine. |
| US08808135B2 |
Multiple speed transmission with a pump assisted launch device
A transmission includes an input member, an output member, four planetary gear sets, a plurality of coupling members and a plurality of torque transmitting devices. The transmission input member is connected to a launch device that includes a planetary gear set connected with a pump or a pump having a rotatable housing connected to an engine and a rotor connected to the transmission input member. Each of the planetary gear sets includes first, second and third members. The torque transmitting devices are for example clutches and brakes. |
| US08808134B2 |
Automatic transmission
An automatic transmission includes an input shaft, an output member, a first planetary gear system, a second planetary gear system, a third planetary gear system, a fourth planetary gear system, and an engagement mechanism. The input shaft is configured to be rotated with power of a driving source relative to the transmission case. The output member is to output rotation of the input shaft using multiple gear-shifting. The multiple gear-shifting is provided by setting at least three of first to third clutches and first to third brakes in a connection state. |
| US08808128B2 |
Hybrid drive system
A hybrid drive system includes an input member, a rotating electric machine, a power distributing apparatus that distributes and transmits torque that is transmitted to the input member to the rotating electric machine and an output member, an output gear capable of outputting torque transmitted to the output member, and an output bearing that is rotatably supports the output member from the radially inner side. The entire apparatus is arranged overlapping with the output member at a position in an axial direction on the radially inner side of the output member, and a ring gear of the apparatus is integrally provided with the output member, on an inner peripheral surface of the output member. The output gear is integrally provided with the output member, on an outer peripheral surface of the output member. The output bearing and the output gear are arranged overlapping at a position in the axial direction. |
| US08808127B2 |
Differential assembly and driving assembly with a differential assembly
A differential assembly is disclosed, and more particularly a differential assembly for a motor vehicle driving axle drivable by an electric motor. The differential assembly comprises a driving gear; a differential drive with an input part and two output parts, wherein the output parts are drivingly connected to the input part and, relative to one another, have a differential effect; a coupling which is arranged effectively between the driving gear and the differential drive, wherein, in a closed condition of the coupling, torque is transmitted from the driving gear to the differential drive and, in an open condition of the coupling, a transmission of torque is interrupted; a controllable actuator for actuating the coupling and a sensor for determining at least three switched positions of the coupling. Furthermore, a driving assembly with such a differential assembly is also disclosed. |
| US08808120B2 |
Bamboo lacrosse shaft
Bamboo lacrosse shafts and methods of manufacturing bamboo lacrosse shafts are disclosed. |
| US08808119B1 |
Bowl-shaped receptacle and ball-based game for use there with
The bowl-shaped receptacle and ball-based game for use there with includes the bowl-based receptacle being comprised of an annular ring member that encircles a bowl appendage. The bowl appendage consists of a concaved ring having a plurality of fingers that extend inwardly as well as downwardly forming a central opening. A ball landing into the bowl appendage is engaged by the fingers around a circumference, and temporarily holds the ball thereon, until subsequently hurled back towards an opposing player. The annular ring member includes diametrically opposed handles along a bottom surface, which are grabbed via hands of a player. The player shall hold the bowl-shaped receptacle with arms in a fully or partially extended manner, and shall catch and bounce back a ball upon a cradling action and consequential flinging action defined by lowering and raising movement of the arms in concert. |
| US08808118B2 |
Basketball hoop
A basketball hoop has a stationary panel, a first pivoting seat, a rim assembly, a second pivoting seat and a torsion assembly. The torsion assembly has at least one torsion spring and a pivoting rod. The pivoting rod is mounted through the first pivoting seat and the second pivoting seat to pivotally mount the stationary panel around the rim assembly. The torsion springs offer a resilient force to resist the force of bending the rim assembly. With the torsion springs mounted around the pivoting rod, the basketball hoop in accordance with the present invention reduces the amount of the components. With the decrease of the amount of the components, the installation is easier and faster, and the cost is reduced therefore. |
| US08808117B2 |
Personal athletic training device
An athletic paddle training apparatus 10 includes an elongate handle portion 20, a coupling region 30 at a distal end 22 of the paddle portion, and a game play head 40 operatively coupled with the handle portion 20 at the coupling region 30. The elongate handle portion is configured to be gripped by an associated user. The game play head 40 has first 46 and second 48 game play regions on opposite first 42 and second 44 sides thereof. The first game play region 46 defines a substantially planar first game play surface 56 on the first side 42 and the second game play region 48 defines a substantially spherical second game play surface 58 on the second side 44 of the game play head 40. In an example embodiment, the second game play surface 58 has a likeness of a #5 soccer ball. |
| US08808114B2 |
Systems and methods for measuring and/or analyzing swing information
In a first aspect, a system for monitoring a swing is provided that includes a wireless device adapted to couple to a swinging object and to provide information indicative of a characteristic of the swinging object. The wireless device is a cellular telephone or personal digital assistant (PDA). Numerous other aspects are provided. |
| US08808112B2 |
Golf ball having visually enhanced non-uniform thickness intermediate layer
A golf ball with at least one core layer, at least one intermediate layer, and at least one cover layer. Any combination of the layers of the golf ball may feature a visually enhancing means. The cover layer is preferably translucent and provides a view to the intermediate layer and/or the core layer. The intermediate layer has a non-uniform thickness. The core may comprise a non-spherical insert. The intermediate layer and the core layer may affect the spin rate of the golf ball. The intermediate layer may be used to indicate the alignment of the golf ball. |
| US08808107B2 |
Golf club
A golf club has a reverse flex of from 90 to 140 mm. In a front view of the golf club head under a standard state in which the golf club head is placed on a horizontal plane at its lie angle and loft angle, a first straight line drawn to pass through the centroid of the toe-crown-side thin portion and the centroid of the back surface of the face portion is inclined at an angle θA of from 30 to 40 degrees with respect to the horizontal plane; and a second straight line drawn to pass through the centroid of the heel-sole-side thin portion and the centroid of the back surface of the face portion is inclined at an angle θB of from 39 to 42 degrees with respect to the horizontal plane. |
| US08808106B2 |
Golf clubs and golf club heads having fluid-filled bladders and/or interior chambers
Golf club heads include: (a) a club head body having a ball striking face and defining a rear cavity; (b) a fluid-filled bladder in the cavity; and (c) a retaining member holding the fluid-filled bladder in the cavity. Other club heads include: (a) a club head body having a ball striking face and defining a rear cavity; and (b) an insert member in the rear cavity, wherein the insert member interior includes one or more chambers facing the rear surface of the ball striking face. The chamber(s) may cover at least 30% of a total surface area of the interior surface of the insert member and/or at least 30% of a total interior major surface area of the rear cavity. Golf clubs including these club heads and methods of making such golf clubs and golf club heads also are described. |
| US08808104B2 |
Modular golfing system
A golf club system includes a club head and a shaft. The club head has a column extending upwardly therefrom, the column having a tooth extending radially outwardly therefrom, the tooth having a first magnet attaching thereto. The shaft has a wall defining a hollow portion that receives the column, the wall having a slot therein the slot having an insertion portion through which the tooth may slide axially and an attachment portion in which the tooth may rotate circumferentially after passing through the insertion portion and a second magnet that engages the first magnet in the tooth after the tooth rotates circumferentially away from the slot. |
| US08808094B2 |
Top box wheel assembly and gaming machine having a top box wheel assembly
A top box wheel assembly and method are disclosed wherein a flat panel display is mounted on a rectangular shaped cabinet top box structure and a circular bezel structure overlays the flat panel display such that a wheel-shaped display area is provided. The circular bezel structure also is shown to include a rectangular cutout base to also provide a rectangular-shaped display area. The circular bezel structure is further shown to include a circular pattern of LEDs which may be operated synchronously or quasi-synchronously with the wheel-shaped display area on which a rotating wheel may be displayed together with an indicator. |
| US08808092B2 |
Methods and systems for consolidating game meters of N gaming machines
A method of multi-player regulated gaming on a network of gaming machines may includes steps of enabling game play of a same game at each of a selected first to Nth gaming machine in the network; maintaining game performance meters at each of the selected first to Nth gaming machines; consolidating the game performance meters from the selected first to Nth gaming machines, and dividing the consolidated game performance meters by N to generate respective regulatory meters for each of the selected first to Nth gaming machines. |
| US08808085B2 |
Wagering game that allows player to alter payouts based on equity position
A wagering game that allows a player to adjust a positive expectation game situation to a lower expectation game situation. In return, the player can increase the paytable so that awards the player wins will be paid at a higher rate. Alternatively, the player can increase the paytable in exchange for a less favorable game state. |
| US08808083B1 |
Gaming system and method for providing a multiple round offer and acceptance game
In various embodiments, the offer and acceptance game includes a plurality of rounds and a pool of displayed awards. For each round, the gaming system randomly selects one or more of the displayed awards of the pool of awards, wherein the quantity of randomly selected awards is determined by the player. For each round, the gaming system selects one or more of such selected award(s) and accumulates these selected award(s) for the player. For each round, the gaming system also removes each randomly selected award from the pool, such that, regardless of whether or not the randomly selected award is also accumulated for the player, the gaming system classifies each randomly selected award as unavailable to be selected for another round. Following the completion of a final round, the gaming system determines and displays a total award based on the awards accumulated for the player in each of the rounds. |
| US08808082B2 |
Interactive slot machine
An interactive gaming device that employs a plurality of reels (mechanical or simulated) is disclosed, and includes means for the player to establish a movement direction for a reel after it comes to a complete stop. The player is also provided with a plurality of switches to establish a condition upon which the reel would move after it comes to a complete stop. The device includes a control mechanism that causes the reel to move after it comes to a complete stop when the condition established by the player is met. A determination is then made if a winning combination of symbols has occurred at a winning line. |
| US08808077B1 |
Table game tournaments using portable devices
Table game tournament systems can include player terminal(s), electronic gaming table(s), and/or a remote server. A player terminal can have an outer housing, a controller located therewithin or thereabout, input and output component(s), and a communications interface to an outside gaming network having other functionally similar gaming device(s), gaming table(s), and a remote server. The controller and/or server can facilitate providing tournament information to a player, which information can include whether the player would qualify for the next tournament round, who is the most serious opponent to the player, and/or the chip difference therebetween. A terminal can also facilitate asynchronous and individually paced tournament play, switching between different tournament tables on demand, and play of other non-tournament table games thereat simultaneously with the play of the table game tournament. Portable computing devices can be used as player terminals and can permit players to play in actual or practice play-along modes. |
| US08808072B2 |
Cabin pressure control system dual valve control and monitoring architecture
The present invention provides a cabin pressure control system that comprises a first outflow valve having a first motor controlled by a first outflow valve controller, the first outflow valve having a first backup motor controlled by a first backup controller. A second outflow valve has a second motor controlled by a second outflow valve controller, the second outflow valve also having a second backup motor controlled by a second backup controller. Upon failure of the first outflow valve controller, the second outflow valve controller controls the first outflow valve via the first backup controller and the first backup motor; and upon failure of the second outflow valve controller, the first outflow valve controller controls the second outflow valve via the second backup controller and the second backup motor. |
| US08808069B2 |
Method for processing a part of a slaughtered animal and device for applying such method
Method for processing a part of a slaughtered animal which comprises a meat part connected to a bone and cartilage, comprising the steps of encapsulating an axial end of the bone together with the cartilage into an encapsulating means provided at a bone pusher; activating the encapsulating means into a radially open position for receiving said axial end and bringing the encapsulating means into a radially closed position for encapsulating said axial end; separating the meat part from the bone and cartilage; and releasing the axial end of the bone and cartilage from the encapsulating means. |
| US08808068B2 |
Method of and system for automatically removing meat from an animal extremity
A method of automatically removing meat from an animal extremity that includes first and second bones articulated by a joint and surrounded by the meat. The method includes obtaining the animal extremity, holding the first bone at a free end thereof remote from the joint, separating the meat from the first bone while moving the meat lengthwise of the first bone in a direction toward the joint, and moving the meat just short of the joint. The method further includes severing the second bone from the first bone adjacent the joint, collecting the severed second bone with the meat attached thereto, holding the thus collected second bone at a distal end thereof and removing the meat from the second bone longitudinally thereof. |
| US08808066B2 |
Plastic wire clipper/stuffer
A system for applying plastic clips to tubular products comprises a die comprising a peripheral face, an arcuate wall forming a half-cylindrical bore separating the die peripheral face into a first and a second side, and a groove extending from the first side, through the arcuate wall and the second side, and forming a slot in an outer edge of the die; a punch comprising a peripheral face, an arcuate wall forming a half-cylindrical bore separating the punch peripheral face into a first and a second side, and two grooves extending from the first side to the second side; and a cylinder for moving the die and the punch from a first position in which the die peripheral face and the punch peripheral face are adjacent, to a second position in which the die peripheral face and the punch peripheral face are remote. |
| US08808062B2 |
Multi-chamber carrier head with a textured membrane
A flexible membrane for use in a carrier head has a generally circular main portion with a lower surface, an annular outer portion for connection to a base assembly, and an annular flap extending from the main portion on a side opposite the lower surface for connection to the base assembly. At least one surface of the flap has a surface texture to prevent adhesion. |
| US08808056B2 |
Brassiere with interchangeable modesty panel
Disclosed is a brassiere that is adjustable for varying levels of modesty or daring. The brassiere includes a modesty panel that is integrated to the design of the brassiere, but is also interchangeable with other modesty panels. The modesty panel can be selected from among a set of modesty panels. In this manner, a wearer may vary the look of an outfit or ensemble by using modesty panels of varying colors, fabrics, textures, or levels of modesty or daring. In various embodiments, the modesty panel is fastened to the brassiere using traditional hook and loop fasteners. In other various embodiments, the to modesty panel may be fastened using hook material and corresponding loop material, or may be fastened using buttons or snap fasteners. Any other manner of fastening systems may be used to render the modesty panel combined with the brassiere as a single article of clothing. |
| US08808054B1 |
Method and apparatus for launching action figures
In one embodiment, an action piece for a toy play set is provided, the action piece being configured to have at least three separate engagement features configured to retain and subsequently release a portion of an action figure. In another embodiment a play set is provided, the play set having: a ring structure, at least one action figure and an action piece for securement to a portion of the ring structure. In still another embodiment, a method of launching an action figure from a play set in order to cause the action figure to fly through the air in a predetermined fashion is provided. |
| US08808047B2 |
Paddleboard and process
A paddleboard (10) comprising a right board (12) slidingly connected to a left board (14). At least one interlocking sliding element is connected to the right board 12, and at least one interlocking sliding element is connected to the left board 14. Right board (12) and left board (14) are slidable longitudinally with respect to one another only within the plane of paddleboard (10), and parallel to the long axis of paddleboard (10). Utilizing a user's legs and feet to slide right board (12) and left board (14) longitudinally causes a propulsion system to propel paddleboard (10) over the water. A suitable propulsion system comprises pivoting paddles (16) or flaps (40) mounted under right board (12) and under left board (14). |
| US08808043B2 |
System for mounting an object on a flexible or curved surface
An outer mounting body is made of semi-soft material having a primarily flat planar shape formed with an upper housing portion, and an outer flange portion having a planar upper surface tapering from the housing portion to outer peripheral edges of the mounting body and adapted to be mounted to flexible or curved surfaces such as those of an inflatable surfboard. An inner mounting insert made of rigid material is molded within the outer mounting body and has an upper recess for sturdily mounting an object such as a surfboard fin. The inner mounting insert may be formed asymmetric for reversibly mounting left and right side fins near the edges of a surfboard. |
| US08808038B2 |
Spring contact and a socket embedded with spring contacts
A spring contact and a socket embedded with spring contacts. The spring contact includes an upper contact pin having a contact portion, two spring holding protrusions and a body, a lower contact pin coupled to the upper contact pin, and a spring fitted over the assembly of the upper and lower contact pins, wherein the body has two symmetric elastic portions with both an oblique surface and a locking protrusion, in which a moving slit is formed between the elastic portions so as to provide a moving space for an opposite contact pin, with moving grooves being formed to movably receive the locking protrusions of an opposite contact pin and to be in electric contact with the locking protrusions. |
| US08808037B2 |
Slidable pogo pin
There is provided a slidable pogo pin including: a first member including a first body and a first connection portion extending from the first body and integrally formed with the first body; a second member including a second body and a second connection portion extending from the second body and integrally formed with the second body; and a spring applying elastic force to the first member and the second member, with at least a part of the first member and at least a part of the second member inserted into the spring. Further, the first member and the second member are electrically connected to each other via the first connection portion and the second connection portion, and the first connection portion and the second connection portion are configured to slide with respect to each other while the first connection portion is brought into surface-to-surface contact with the second connection portion. |
| US08808033B2 |
Ground power connector saver
A ground power connector saver for electrically and mechanically connecting a ground power connector to an aircraft fixed connector, the ground power connector saver having: an internal block having a number of cavities, each cavity having an inside dimension and a pivot engagement; a socket group having a number of sockets, each socket having a female tyne section having an outside dimension and a pivot engagement; and a body that houses the internal block and the tyne sections of the sockets and includes a flexible portion that flexibly seals respective ends of the tyne sections of the sockets in the cavities, where male pin contacts of the socket group extend from the body. |
| US08808032B2 |
Multiple cable connector
A power or signal cable connector for allowing two or more electric devices to be connected to a single socket, the connector comprising: a shell having a first mounting block and a second mounting block; a nose piece assembly fastened to one end of the shell; a handle assembly fastened to an opposite end of the shell; a stud extending from the handle assembly through the nose piece assembly; and one of a cable adaptor and a socket/plug housing fastened to each of the first and second mounting blocks. |
| US08808031B2 |
Battery connector system
A battery connector system includes a tray assembly configured to be mounted to a battery module made from a plurality of battery cells. The tray assembly has a tray and a plurality of busbars held by the tray. The tray has a tray connector defining a mating interface being configured to mate with an electrical connector. The electrical connector may be either a wire harness connector or a circuit board connector. The busbars are coupled to the tray and have plates being configured to be electrically connected to corresponding cell tabs of the battery cells. The busbars have fuse terminals positioned in the tray connector. A plurality of fuses are coupled to the fuse terminals. The fuses may be serviceable fuses or resettable fuses. The fuses are connected between the plates of the busbars and the electrical connector. |
| US08808028B2 |
Integrated AISG connector assembly
A connector assembly is provided. In one example, the connector assembly includes a connector plate, a connector bracket, and a wiring set. The connector plate has a male connector shell and a female connector shell. The connector bracket has a male connector core and a female connector core. The connector bracket is dimensioned to be mounted on the connector plate with the male connector core disposed within the male connector shell and the female connector core disposed within the female connector shell. The wiring set is coupled to the male connector core and to the female connector core, and is further provides a pigtail connection. |
| US08808026B2 |
Waterproof structure
A waterproof structure, which is for one connector fixed to a mounting hole of an automotive motor's metallic case and another connector fixed to a mounting hole of an automotive inverter's metallic case and connected to the one connector, comprises ring-shaped first and second packings. The first packing resides between the one case's surface and the one connector's surface that are orthogonal to a fitting direction of the connectors such that the one case's mounting hole is surrounded thereby to provide waterproof interface between the one case and the one connector. The second packing resides between the other case's surface and the other connector's surface that are parallel to the fitting direction. The second packing extends on an outer circumferential surface of the other connector to provide waterproof interface between an inner circumferential surface of the other case's mounting hole and the other connector's outer circumferential surface. |
| US08808024B2 |
Electrical connector having position fixer for conductive terminals
An electrical connector (10) adapted for being mounted onto a printed circuit board (PCB) including a number of vias. The electrical connector includes an insulative housing (200) having a board mounting surface (12), a contact module (400) assembled to the insulating housing (200) and including a number of conductive terminals (403), and a positioning fixer (300) mounting to the conductive terminals. Each of the conductive terminals includes a pin end extending beyond the mounting surface for being inserted into one of the PCB vias. The position fixer (300) has a plurality of through holes (301) each retaining to a corresponding pin end (405) prior to the position fixer (300) being moved up to the mounting surface when the electrical connector is mounted to the PCB. |
| US08808021B2 |
Securing structure having a housing with a latching patch latching with and pressing a securing member
A securing structure includes a housing, and a securing member. The housing defines a receiving space and includes a base at end of the housing adjacent to the receiving space. The base includes at least one latching patch secured on the base. The securing member includes a latching portion and at least one resisting portion extended from one side of the latching portion. The latching portion detachably engages with the at least one latching patch with an end of the at least one latching patch pressing the resisting portion toward the receiving space. |
| US08808019B2 |
Electrical connector with grounding member
An electrical connector that comprises a connector body that has opposite first and second ends. The first end is configured to be coupled with a prepared end of a cable. A coupling member that has an interface end configured to interface with a mating connector and a free end opposite the interface end that is rotatable with respect to the connector body at the second end of the connector body. A resilient grounding member is disposed between an outer surface of the second end of the connector body and the free end of the coupling member. Each of the connector body, the coupling member, and the resilient grounding member is conductive thereby creating a grounding path between the connector body and the coupling member. |
| US08808017B2 |
Electrical connector with anti-arcing feature
A novel connector pair suppresses arcing during connection and disconnection. In one general aspect of the invention, first and second insulating barriers are configured to extend beyond corresponding first and second contacts, the barriers being arranged to cover a leading end of at least one of the contacts, and to engage with each other when the contacts are separated by a small gap, thereby closing off substantially all through-air arcing paths between them. In another general aspect of the invention, at least one electrical contact in a connector pair is a bimetal contact having a transitional segment made from high resistivity metal. The transitional segment is configured to make first and last contact during the initial phases of mating and un-mating, thereby increasing electrical resistance and significantly lowering the electrical current and the energy available for electrical arcing. |
| US08808013B2 |
Electrical cord with tamper resistant mechanism
An electrical cord including a plug on a first end and at least one socket on a second end opposite the first end, a protective shutter assembly disposed within the at least one socket, the shutter assembly including a first and second shutter members positioned proximate the cover assembly and each of the first and second shutter members is at least partially aligned with separate cover openings in the cover assembly and being configured to move from a closed position to an open position in response to engaging at least one plug blade, a third shutter member positioned behind the first shutter member, a fourth shutter member positioned behind the second shutter member, and wherein the first and second shutter members pivot from the closed position to the open position and the third and fourth shutter members slide from the closed position to the open position. |
| US08808012B2 |
Shield connector
A shield connector includes a housing and a shield terminal. The housing, has a tubular shape so that a shield electric wire is inserted thereinto, and is attached to an objective body so as to communicate with an insert hole of the objective body. The shield terminal, has a tubular shape, is electrically conductive, is attached to an inner peripheral side of the housing, and is electrically conducted to the objective body and the shield layer. A seal member having a tubular shape is provided between an inner periphery of the insert hole and the shield electric wire and between the shield terminal and the shield electric wire, so as to seal a part between the inner periphery of the insert hole and an outer periphery of the shield electric wire and a part between an inner periphery of the shield terminal and the outer periphery of the shield electric wire. |
| US08808008B2 |
Rotatable connector device
A rotatable connector device has a rotator including a ring-shaped rotatable-side ring plate and an inner cylindrical section having a cylindrical shape and formed along an inner circumferential edge of the rotatable-side ring plate, and a stator including a ring-shaped fixed-side ring plate and an outer cylindrical section having a cylindrical shape and formed along an outer circumferential edge of the ring-shaped fixed-side ring plate. The rotator and the stator are engaged with each other, so as to be pivotable with respect to each other with a gap being provided between the rotatable-side ring plate and the outer cylindrical section. An accommodation section, defined by the rotatable-side ring plate and the inner cylindrical section of the rotator and the fixed-side ring plate and the outer cylindrical section of the stator, accommodates a cable for electrically connecting the rotator and the stator to each. |
| US08808005B2 |
Self-contained needle decompression training apparatus and associated components
A self-contained medical needle decompression training apparatus is provided. In various embodiments, the system includes a hollow body having at least one sidewall, a closed end, an opposing open end and an interior chamber. The apparatus additionally includes a closure device structured and operable to mate with the open end to close the interior chamber and an orifice on the sidewall of the apparatus that is configured to snugly receive a decompression needle. The orifice may include pads or plugs of pliant material to simulate human flesh, simulated ribs on each side of the orifice, and a bladder in the chamber to simulate air pockets in a human body, such as for example a lung. The interior chamber provides a storage space for medical devices to be used in association with the training system, such as for example medical decompression syringes, needles, flesh pads and replaceable bladders. |
| US08808001B1 |
Method and device for dental implant installation
This invention, method and device for dental devices for implant installation, provides the tissue regeneration especially bone augmentation for dental implant during surgical placement of the dental implants in the grown maxillary jaw bone in order to obtain adequate volume of osseous structure by addition of the artificial bone graft material. An improved device for dental devices for implant installation comprises a blowing (pumping) means including the resting means, rod, piston, cylindrical body with cylindrical body compartment, handle, threaded cylindrical projection, and passage. Also, an improved device for dental implant installation comprises a conic nozzle or conic nozzle with balloon or nozzle with the suction clipping means, each of which includes a substance channel. |
| US08807994B2 |
Method for operating a regenerative heater
A method for operating a regenerative heater including a first chamber and a second chamber, the first chamber having a burner arranged therein, the second chamber having heat storage means; the method including: a heating cycle where fuel and oxidizing gas are fed to the burner of the first chamber and allowed to burn and where hot flue gasses are led through the second chamber to heat the heat storage means; and a blowing cycle where a process gas is fed through the second chamber to pick up heat from the heat storage means where the heating cycle includes the following steps: feeding a first stream of fuel to the burner of the regenerative heater; feeding a second stream of fuel to a pre-combustion chamber; feeding oxygen to the pre-combustion chamber; allowing the second stream of fuel and the oxygen to interact so as to form oxidizing gas; feeding the oxidizing gas to the burner of the regenerative heater, where, at the end of the heating cycle, the supply of oxygen to the pre-combustion chamber is discontinued, while further feeding the second stream of fuel to the pre-combustion chamber and further feeding the first stream of fuel to the burner. |
| US08807993B2 |
System and method for the calcination of minerals
A system and method for the calcination of minerals. The system comprises a vertically disposed reactor segment configured to impart horizontal forces on particles passing through the reactor segment in a vertical direction; an injector unit for receiving granular feedstock, the injector unit being disposed at a top portion of the reactor segment, whereby granules of the feedstock move through the reactor segment in a granular flow under at least one of a group consisting of a force of steam, gravitational force and a centrifugal force; a reactor heat exchange unit thermally coupled to a wall of the reactor segment for providing heat to the flowing granules inside the reactor segment through heat transfer through the wall of the reactor segment; one or more inlets formed in the reactor segment for introducing a superheated gas into the reactor segment to create conditions of a gas-solid multiphase system; and one or more exhaust openings formed in the retort segment such that gas products are at least partially flushed from the reactor segment under the flow of the superheated gas from the inlets to the exhaust openings. |
| US08807988B2 |
Regenerable MgO promoted metal oxide oxygen carriers for chemical looping combustion
The disclosure provides an oxygen carrier comprised of a plurality of metal oxide particles in contact with a plurality of MgO promoter particles. The MgO promoter particles increase the reaction rate and oxygen utilization of the metal oxide when contacting with a gaseous hydrocarbon at a temperature greater than about 725° C. The promoted oxide solid is generally comprised of less than about 25 wt. % MgO, and may be prepared by physical mixing, incipient wetness impregnation, or other methods known in the art. The oxygen carrier exhibits a crystalline structure of the metal oxide and a crystalline structure of MgO under XRD crystallography, and retains these crystalline structures over subsequent redox cycles. In an embodiment, the metal oxide is Fe2O3, and the gaseous hydrocarbon is comprised of methane. |
| US08807987B2 |
Burner and ignition assembly and method
A burner and ignition assembly, and method include a burner unit, an air intake, and a fuel supply supplying gas and including an air intake. The amount of air entering the air intake can be controlled by momentarily adjusting a choke that is movable relative to the air intake to cover a portion of an opening of the air intake to reduce an amount of air entering the air intake when a cold start condition exists. |
| US08807984B2 |
Molded article extractor and method
A tire tread extractor used in the manufacture of treads includes a frame, a first nip roller rotatably associated with the frame, and a second nip roller rotatably associated with the frame. The first and second nip rollers are adapted to engage a tire tread at least partially resident in a mold. A driving mechanism associated with the first and/or second nip rollers operates to impart rotational motion thereto. The frame is configured for longitudinal movement along a substantial portion of a longitudinal length of the mold while maintaining the first and second nip rollers in a spaced relation to the mold. |
| US08807983B2 |
Thermoforming apparatus
A thermoforming apparatus for forming a blank into a composite article. The thermoforming apparatus includes a forming tool. A forming member forms the blank over the forming tool. A first chamber is arranged for containing the blank. A second chamber is separated from the first chamber by the forming member. A first air circulator is configured to circulate air in the first chamber for achieving a heat distribution to the blank. The first air circulator includes a controllable valve member. The apparatus also includes a second air circulator. A method for forming a blank during circulation of air in a first chamber. |
| US08807982B2 |
Expandable molding insert apparatus and method
An expandable molding insert apparatus and corresponding method are provided. The insert apparatus may be expandable between a first uncompressed position with a first diameter and a second compressed position with a second, larger diameter due to axial decompression and compression, respectively, of the insert apparatus. For example, the insert apparatus may include an inner rod, an outer jacket, and a compression member. The compression member may be configured to provide axial compression to the outer jacket, such that the outer jacket may be adjusted between a first uncompressed position with a first outer diameter and a second compressed position with a second, larger outer diameter. The insert apparatus of the present disclosure facilitates withdrawal of the insert apparatus from a molded component, requires a minimal number of mechanical components, and provides for ease of actuation when the insert apparatus is utilized during a molding process. |
| US08807981B2 |
Automated system for changing a mold of a molding unit with which a machine for manufacturing containers is provided
An automated system for changing a mold of a molding unit (24) with which a machine for manufacturing containers is provided, characterized in that the system includes at least one control module (M) having at least a first actuating device (122) combined with the locking device (90) of the molding unit (24) and a second actuating device (126) combined with the opening/closing device (82) of the molding unit (24). |
| US08807979B2 |
Machine for the manufacture of dosage forms utilizing radiofrequency energy
The present invention features the present invention features a machine for the production of a solid dosage form including: (a) a die platen having one or more forming cavities each having an inner wall, a first opening at the surface of one side of the die platen, and a second opening at the surface on the opposite side of the die platen; (b) one or more first forming tools each adapted to move into one of the forming cavities through the first opening of the forming cavity; (c) one or more second forming tools each adapted to move adjacent to one of the second openings or into one of the forming cavities through the second opening of the forming cavity; (d) at least one first RF electrode operably associated with the one or more first forming tools, the one or more second forming tools, or the inner wall of the one or more forming cavities; and (e) at least one second RF electrode operably associated with the one or more first forming tools. |
| US08807978B2 |
Template manufacturing method, template inspecting method and inspecting apparatus, nanoimprint apparatus, nanoimprint system, and device manufacturing method
There is provided a template inspection apparatus which inspects a replica template, manufactured by an imprinting method from a master template having a depression/protrusion pattern, the template inspection apparatus including: an inspection light source part which radiates inspection light of plane waves; a stage configured to dispose the master template and the replica template so as to be in close proximity with each other and be irradiated by the inspection light; and a detection part which detects light of a component transmitting through the master template and the replica template and different from the plane waves. Accordingly, a template can be inspected in a short time. |
| US08807977B2 |
Cam follower slide for mold clamping linkage system
A cam follower slide component used in an apparatus for extrusion blow molding polyethylene teraphthalate is disclosed. The cam follower slide component is designed to include disc springs positioned about a spindle that is in turn located along the slide direction of the cam follower. With the inclusion of disc springs, the cam follower slide is capable of absorbing certain excessive forces within the blow mold clamping linkage system that may develop during irregular blow mold process conditions. In a preferred embodiment, the cam follower slide component includes the ability to adjust the spring force of the disc springs to allow for a variation in allowable excess system linkage forces. |
| US08807974B2 |
Split discharge vane pump and fluid metering system therefor
A split discharge vane pump is disclosed having a pump body that includes an interior pumping chamber having a central axis and defining a continuous peripheral cam surface, the cam surface including four quadrantal cam segments, wherein diametrically opposed cam segments have identical cam profiles, and each cam segment defines an inlet arc, a discharge arc and two seal arcs. A rotor is mounted for axial rotation within the pumping chamber and a plurality of circumferentially spaced apart radially extending vanes are mounted for radial movement within the rotor, wherein the plurality of vanes define an equal number of circumferentially spaced apart buckets which extend between the rotor and the cam surface of the pumping chamber for carrying pressurized fluid. |
| US08807973B2 |
Rotary-type 2-stage compressor
A 2-stage rotary compressor is provided that includes a hermetic container, a rotating shaft provided in the hermetic container to transfer a rotational force, a low pressure compression assembly including a low pressure roller eccentrically rotated around a center of the rotating shaft, a low pressure cylinder that accommodates the low pressure roller, and a low pressure vane that partitions an inner space of the low pressure cylinder, a high pressure compression assembly including a high pressure roller eccentrically rotated around the center of the rotating shaft, a high pressure cylinder that accommodates the high pressure roller, and a high pressure vane that partitions an inner space of the high pressure cylinder, a connection pipe that provides a passage for the refrigerant compressed in the low pressure compression assembly to be introduced into the high pressure compression assembly, and an injection pipe connected to the connection pipe. An inner diameter of a middle portion of the connection pipe is greater than inner diameters of both end portions of the connection pipe. |
| US08807971B2 |
Turbo compressor and compressor system comprising such a turbo compressor
A turbo compressor for air includes a compressor housing and an impeller arranged in the compressor housing. The turbo compressor also has a drive motor with a stator and a rotor. On the rotor shaft of which the impeller is seated, in such a manner that the drive motor is cooled in an optimum manner, the drive motor is positioned to be cooled with a flow of cooling air by way of a closed cooling air circuit. The flow of cooling air in the cooling air circuit flows through at least one cooling bore which penetrates a section of the rotor shaft. |
| US08807969B2 |
Fan assembly
A fan assembly includes a housing, a first frame, a second frame, at least one driving device, a supporting device, an active impeller and a passive impeller. The housing has an air-flowing channel, and the first frame and second frame are disposed at opposite sites of the air-flowing channel. The driving device is disposed on the first frame and actuates the active impeller to rotate. The supporting device is disposed on the second frame and has the passive impeller thereon. The passive impeller is propelled by the airflow generated by the active impeller. |
| US08807967B2 |
Blower fan
A blower fan includes a shaft including an outer circumferential surface, a rotor magnet arranged to rotate about a rotation axis together with the shaft, a stator arranged radially outwards of the rotor magnet in an opposing relationship with the rotor magnet, a substantially cylindrical holder unit arranged to rotatably support the shaft through a bearing, and an impeller arranged to rotate together with the shaft. The bearing includes a pair of axially spaced-apart bearing units. The rotor magnet and the stator are arranged between the bearing units. The bearing units and the stator are held on an inner circumferential surface of the holder unit. |
| US08807966B2 |
Pump motor protector with redundant shaft seal
An electric submersible pump device having a motor part, a pump part, and a protector part. The protector part includes redundant shaft seal parts. |
| US08807957B2 |
Apparatus for detecting the fluid condition in a pump
A pump control system which detects a fluid condition in a pump is disclosed. The pump control system may include a control event based on the fluid condition in the pump. The pump control system may detect a fluid condition in the pump by monitoring the frequency response of the pump. |
| US08807954B2 |
Assembly and method of preparing an assembly
The invention relates to a method of preparing an assembly, including providing a first structure; providing a second structure; providing at least one flexible adhesive limiting member extending between the structures; and providing an adhesive between the structures to bind the structures to each other; wherein the adhesive is limited by the flexible adhesive limiting member such that a concave front line surface of the adhesive is defined. The invention also relates to such an assembly as well as to a wind turbine rotor blade, and to a wind turbine, having such an assembly. |
| US08807950B2 |
Turbine nozzle airfoil profile
The present application provides a turbine nozzle including an airfoil shape. The airfoil shape may have a nominal profile substantially in accordance with Cartesian coordinate values of X, Y and Z set forth in Table 1. The Cartesian coordinate values of X, Y and Z are non-dimensional values from 0% to 100% convertible to dimensional distances in inches by multiplying the Cartesian coordinate values of X, Y and Z by a height of the airfoil in inches. The X and Y values are distances in inches which, when connected by smooth continuing arcs, define airfoil profile sections at each distance Z. The airfoil profile sections at Z distances may be joined smoothly with one another to form a complete airfoil shape. |
| US08807949B2 |
Radial fan wheel arrangement
A radial fan wheel arrangement includes a circular bottom plate (2) and a circular cover plate (3) with a central inflow opening (4), as well as wheel blades (6) running between the bottom plate (2) and the cover plate (3). Pocket-shaped recesses (9) are configured at least on one side of a plate surface in the space between the wheel blades (6) in an outer edge area of the cover plate (3) or the bottom plate (2) or both. At least one counterweight (13) is mounted on at least one of the two plates (2, 3) on a plate edge in an area of the pocket-shaped recesses (9). |
| US08807946B2 |
Cyclic blade speed control apparatus and method
A blade speed control apparatus and method. The apparatus includes a rotor assembly a first blade assembly movably attached to the rotor assembly at a first initial position, a second blade assembly movably attached to the rotor assembly at a second initial position, and a movement mechanism configured to move the rotor assembly in a first lateral direction along a y-axis such that a first angle exists between the first blade assembly with said respect to the second blade assembly. The movement mechanism is configured to move a portion of the rotor assembly in a first lateral direction along a y-axis such that a first angle exists between the first blade assembly with said respect to the second blade assembly. The first angle does not comprise an angle of 180 degrees. |
| US08807940B2 |
Wind turbine blade with lift-regulating means in form of slots or holes
A blade for a wind turbine rotor with a hub is described. The object of the invention is to provide a wind turbine blade of the modern, aerodynamic type with improved regulating properties to enhance the adjustment of the wind turbine to various wind conditions, and where no mechanical parts are needed near the tip area. At least one slot or a number of holes arranged in at least one longitudinally extending zone, thereby allowing an interior cavity of the blade to communicate with the exterior. The amount of air emitted from the interior cavity to the exterior is also regulated to alter the aerodynamic properties of the blade. |
| US08807937B2 |
Wind turbine
A wind turbine for power generation is provided. The wind turbine includes a power generating unit and a rotor having a plurality of blades. To control power output of the wind turbine, the blades are capable of being pitched by a blade pitch adjusting device. The wind turbine also includes a pitch control unit for controlling the blade pitch adjusting device. Furthermore, the wind turbine includes a load determining device for determining the blade load from the pitch activity of the blades. |
| US08807936B2 |
Balanced turbine rotor fan blade for a tip turbine engine
A fan-turbine rotor assembly for a tip turbine engine includes a multiple of fan blades, which include an inducer section, a hollow fan blade section and a diffuser section. The hollow fan blade section defines an airflow passage. The core airflow is turned, spread and split toward opposite ends of the diffuser section by a multiple of internal turning vanes. The airflow streams are then further turned by discharge turning vanes before discharge from a diffuser discharge outlet. Along with turning and splitting the core airflow, the fan blade profile balances the mass of the diffuser section such that the center of mass thereof is over the hollow airfoil section structure. |
| US08807931B2 |
System for impact zone reinforcement
A system may include a structure having a leading edge and a fiber-reinforced composite cover. The fiber-reinforced composite cover may include a protective portion and a retaining portion, wherein the retaining portion extends about the structure to self-retain the protective portion along the leading edge, and the protective portion is different from the retaining portion. |
| US08807930B2 |
Non axis-symmetric stator vane endwall contour
An airfoil comprises pressure and suction surfaces extending axially from a leading edge to a trailing edge and radially from a root section to a tip section, defining a mean span therebetween. An inner endwall defines an inner endwall contour extending axially and circumferentially from the root section, and an outer endwall defines an outer endwall contour extending axially and circumferentially from the tip section. The inner and outer endwall contours are defined by varying radial deviations from circumferentially uniform nominal inner and outer radii, where one of the radial deviations varies axially and circumferentially by at least three percent of a mean span of the airfoil. |
| US08807929B2 |
Turbine housing for a supercharger
A turbine housing for a supercharger, includes an inlet opening, a turbine seat and a race extending from the inlet opening to the turbine seat, the race including a first spiral chamber (7) which mouth into the turbine seat and a second spiral chamber (8) which mouth into the turbine seat. Both the first spiral chamber (7) and the second spiral chamber (8) mouth in a first angular segment (β) of the turbine seat, the axial height of the mouth into the turbine seat of the second spiral chamber (8) in the first angular segment (β) is bigger in the end of the first angular segment (β) than in the beginning thereof seen in a flow direction (F), and in that the A/R-ratio of the first spiral chamber (7) is smaller than the common A/R-ratio of the first spiral chamber (7) and the second spiral chamber (8). |
| US08807928B2 |
Tip shroud assembly with contoured seal rail fillet
The present application provides a tip shroud assembly for use with a turbine engine. The tip shroud assembly may include a shroud, a seal rail positioned on the shroud, and a contoured fillet attaching the seal rail to the shroud. |
| US08807925B2 |
Fan blade having internal rib break-edge
A fan blade has a main body extending between a leading edge and a trailing edge. Channels are formed into the main body from at least one open side. A plurality of ribs extend across the main body intermediate the channels. The fan blade has a dovetail, and an airfoil extends radially outwardly from the dovetail. The ribs having a thickness defined as measured from said leading edge toward said trailing edge. The ribs have break-edges at ends of the thickness that extend away from an outer face of the rib. |
| US08807920B2 |
Pump assembly
A pump assembly with a rotatable rotor shaft (10), wherein the rotor shaft (10) includes at least one axial bearing (36, 40) and a radial bearing (30, 32), which are integrated into a common bearing assembly (16). |
| US08807915B2 |
Double casing type pump and performance adjusting method thereof
A double casing type pump and a performance adjusting method allow for adjustment of the performance of the pump, especially the head of the pump, without large-scale work or component disassembly. The pump includes impellers fixed to a rotation shaft, an inner casing shrouding the impellers, an outer casing shrouding the inner casing and having a suction opening and a discharge opening. A space is formed between the inner and outer casings that communicates with the discharge opening. A bypass hole connects the space to the working fluid passage in the inner casing and has a throat diameter adjusting member. A plurality of throat diameter adjusting members are prepared in advance, each member having different throat area. One of the throat diameter adjusting members is selected so that the performance of the pump remains within a predetermined range. |
| US08807913B2 |
Gripping head
The present invention concerns a gripping head for packages of a wedge-like form. The invention also concerns a method of gripping a group of packages and transferring them into a box. The gripping head has side steering plates and pressure finger plates on two opposite sides. At one end of the gripping head a stop plate is arranged between the side steering plates and the pressure finger plates, while the opposite end is open. The side steering plates each has a number of steering plates and fingers of the pressure finger plates are placed on either side of the steering plates, which fingers are received in notches of the side steering plate. The fingers have folded lower ends. The side steering plates and the pressure finger plates are arranged mutually moveable bringing the folded lower ends of the fingers into and out of a position below the side steering plates. |
| US08807910B1 |
Variable counterweight system for a material handling vehicle
A movable counterweight system moves under a material-handling vehicle to provide a safe low center of gravity, and avoid interference to the operator. |
| US08807907B2 |
Apparatus for level ride lift
A lift having a platform with a substantially level ride and including an extension plate is described. The lift also reduces the distance between the ground and the platform in the ground position. |
| US08807906B2 |
Flatbed tow truck pivoting platform assembly and method of use
A flatbed vehicle carrier assembly comprising a carrier body subassembly including a carrier floor supported by a carrier body slide enabling sill frame. An intermediate subframe subassembly is capable of sliding and being pivotally integrated with a slide enabling tilt and pivotal control subassembly, which is pivotally secured therebetween to a mounting platform support assembly. A pivot control device provides a means to rotate and rearwardly transfer and posture the intermediate subframe. The carrier body sill frame is slideably assembled to the intermediate subframe, being driven by a longitudinal control actuator. A ramp can be pivotally integrated into a loading end of the carrier body subassembly. The carrier and ramp floors are fabricated of a series of interlocking extrusion members. |
| US08807905B2 |
Linear semiconductor processing facilities
Methods and systems are provided for handling materials, including materials used in semiconductor manufacturing systems. The methods and systems include linear semiconductor processing facilities for vacuum-based semiconductor processing and handling, as well as linkable or extensible semiconductor processing facilities that can be flexibly configured to meet a variety of constraints. |
| US08807903B2 |
Cotter spring pin
A retainer pin is described for retaining, in one embodiment, a relatively thin blade against a transverse surface. The pin has a transition section which extends through an opening in the blade, a keeper section extending along one side of the blade, and a snap arm and snap end extending along an opposite side of the blade with a snap snapping over the edge of the blade. |
| US08807899B2 |
Insert wall anchor for a grab bar
A grab bar or other accessory is attached to a wall with at least one anchor assembly. The anchor assembly can be removed and repeatedly used as needed. The anchor assembly includes a vertical support beam, an arm having a hub portion and an arm portion, and a mounting plate that is supported by the arm. The arm portion is received within a slot formed within the vertical support beam. A spring is attached to the vertical support beam and cooperates with the arm portion to hold the arm in place during installation. The mounting plate includes a plurality of hole locations spaced radially outwardly from a center opening. The mounting plate is rotatable to position the plurality of hole locations at one of many different desired mount positions for a variety of grab bars. |
| US08807898B2 |
Connector devices and connector assemblies
A connector assembly comprises a base part that defines a through-hole for receiving a bolt and also defines an aperture for receiving a device having a first end that fits through the aperture in the base part and a second end that does not fit through the aperture in the base part. The first end of the device defines a bolt-hole for engaging with a bolt extending though the through-hole in the base part. The second end of the device comprises opposing outer surfaces that engage the base part and thereby prevent the device from passing completely through the aperture, and also align the bolt-hole in the device with the through-hole in the base part when the first end of the device is inserted into the aperture. |
| US08807896B2 |
Anti-back-out fastener for applications under vibration
A fastener is disclosed for use in a high vibration application wherein the fastener is engaged to a blind hole. The fastener includes a lock washer including wedge locking action fastening features and a head of the fastener including mating wedge locking action fastening features. The wedge locking action fastening features include a greater inclination than a pitch angle of the fastener such that the fastener is prevented from backing out. |
| US08807895B2 |
Fastener housing for securing a bumper fascia to a fender panel of an automotive vehicle
A fastener housing for securing a bumper fascia to a fender panel includes a shank portion, a skirt portion, and an arm portion. The shank portion includes a first end and an opposite second end and a throughbore extending from the first end to the second end. The shank portion has a widened cross sectional shape which avoids rotation upon insertion into the connection portion of the bumper fascia or fender panel. The skirt portion extends radially from the first end of the shank portion. The arm portion includes a proximate end connected to the skirt portion and a distal end having a protrusion extending generally normal from the arm portion. |
| US08807893B2 |
Restraining strap securement system
A restraining strap securement system for a trailer includes a load-restraining strap with a flat hook that connects to the trailer side rail. The trailer side rail extends along the sides of the trailer and comprises a bottom wall with an opening for receiving the flat hook. A keeper slides upon a rail affixed to the bottom wall and the keeper may be positioned to extend beneath the flat hook and prevent the flat from falling from the opening while the strap is being tightened. The keeper may comprise a hook that can be used to secure tarps or ropes over the trailer load. |
| US08807892B2 |
Transport tank cradle assembly
A transport tank assembly for mounting to a truck has a composite tank body having an inner side and an outer side, and at least one cradle assembly connected to the outer side of the tank body. Each cradle assembly has a cradle having an inner side and an outer side, and at least one band of composite material disposed over the outer side of the cradle and at least a portion of the outer side of the tank. A length of the band of composite material is greater than a length of the cradle. The band of composite material connects the cradle to the tank body. The cradle and the at least one band in a generally lateral direction of the tank body. |
| US08807891B2 |
Removable frame systems for vehicle shipping
A frame system for supporting two wheels of an associated vehicle for transport within an existing transportable structure such as a standard ISO container which has longitudinally extending side structures 5, 6. The frame system comprising a transverse wheel supporting frame 41, 43 supported by two vertical posts 40, 42 located one at each end of the wheel supporting frame. Each post is provided with attachment means 44, 48a for securing the top and bottom of the post at a plurality of locations along the length of the associated side structure independent of the shape of the side structure. The wheel supporting frame 41, 43 is raiseable with or without a vehicle loaded thereon and once raised is fixable 49, 50, 51 to the posts 40, 42 at a chosen location for transport within the transportable structure. The attachment means may comprise ties 44 of adjustable length which pull each post in the fore and aft direction relative to the side structure 5, 6 to locate each post. |
| US08807889B2 |
Rotary cutting tool having sealed margins and method of making same
A rotary cutting tool includes a generally cylindrical body having a first end, a second end and a longitudinal axis therebetween. A mounting portion is disposed about the first end, a head portion having an outer diameter is disposed about the second end, and a body relief portion having an outer diameter less than the head portion is disposed therebetween. The head portion is structured to engage and cut a workpiece. A number of flutes extend from the second end of the cylindrical body along the head portion and along at least a portion of the body relief portion. The head portion includes a number of margin relief surfaces, each disposed between adjacent flutes and inset a distance from the outer diameter of the head portion and extending from the second end of the cylindrical body and terminating at a margin seal within the head portion. |
| US08807882B2 |
Face milling cutter
A face milling cutter has a shank portion adjoining a cutting portion. The cutting portion terminates in a plurality of cutting edges extending in a radial direction from a central axis of the face milling cutter. The cutting edges are convexly curved at least along a part of their length. A portion of the cutting edges proximate the central axis is nearer in an axial direction to the shank portion than a point, X, on the cutting edges that is farthest away from the shank portion. A distance Y, between the point, X, and the central axis is between 20% and 40% of a diameter, D, of the face milling cutter, and a central portion extends the distance, Y, and has a radius of curvature of about 110% of the diameter, D. |
| US08807880B2 |
Toolholder coupling for high pressure coolant
A coolant coupling system for coupling a toolholder to a toolholder support member, wherein the shank of the toolholder is secured within the bore of the toolholder support member with an interference fit and a coolant channel extends through the toolholder support member to the toolholder passing through the region of the interference fit to provide a high pressure seal for the coolant passageway between the toolholder and the toolholder support member. |
| US08807878B2 |
Reinforced soil structure
A reinforced soil structure including a fill (1), a facing (3) placed along a front face of the structure, at least one main reinforcement member (2, 9, 26) connected to the facing and extending through a first reinforced zone (Z1) of the fill situated behind the front face, and at least one secondary reinforcement member (6) disconnected from the facing and extending from the facing in a second reinforced zone (Z2) of the fill, which has, with said first reinforced zone (Z1), a common part (Z′), wherein the secondary reinforcement member (6) extends into the fill (1) up to a distance substantially shorter than the main reinforcement member (2, 9, 26), with respect to the front face and wherein the stiffness of the secondary reinforcement member (6) is lower or equal to the stiffness of the main reinforcement member (2, 9, 26). |
| US08807871B2 |
Specialized lined landfill system for the stabilization and containment of drilling wastes and coal combustion residues
Systems and methods of the present invention include a method for the treatment of drilling wastes and coal combustion residues, comprising combining at least a first drilling waste with coal combustion residues to form a paste, combining at least a second drilling waste with coal combustion residues to form a compactable fill, and placing the paste and the compactable fill in a landfill. Other embodiments include a method of treating drilling wastes and coal combustion residues, comprising combining at least one drilling waste with a coal combustion residue to form a paste. Further embodiments include containing the paste within at least one geotextile container. Still further embodiments include placing the geotextile container in a landfill. |
| US08807869B1 |
Floating barriers
There is disclosed a floating barrier for installation in deep oceans for dampening winds, waves, and currents, and for containing oil spills. Applications of this invention include tsunami wave alleviation, storm protection, and oil spill containment. |
| US08807865B1 |
Light weight load-bearing platform
A lightweight polymer-based load bearing platform preferably including artificial turf for use as a synthetic turf block for easy installation, easy maintenance, and long term durability. |
| US08807858B2 |
Mopping device
A mopping device includes a mopping portion, a fluid release device for releasing fluid to at least one of a surface to be mopped and the mopping portion, a handle configured to be gripped by a user to control the mopping portion, and a reservoir for storing fluid. The reservoir can include an expandable bladder. The reservoir also can be configured such that air need not be evacuated from the reservoir during filling of the reservoir. The mopping device also can be part of a mopping system, in which a refill reservoir is provided to refill the reservoir of the mopping device. |
| US08807856B2 |
Tape cutter and tape printer including the same
A tape cutter including: a cutter for cutting a tape-shaped material; a cutter frame for supporting the cutter in such a condition that the cutter can carry out cutting; a cutter driving mechanism for allowing the cutter to perform cutting from a standby position to a cutting position; a tape pressing member for pressing the tape-shaped material in a cutting direction against a receiving member provided on the cutter frame prior to the cutting by the cutter; a pressing spring disposed between the cutter and the tape pressing member to urge the cutter and the tape pressing member in directions away from each other; and a return spring whose one urging end is hooked to the tape pressing member to return the cutter from the cutting position to the standby position by returning the tape pressing member. |
| US08807850B2 |
Support head for an optical or video-photographic apparatus
A support head for an optical or video-photographic apparatus, having a first body traversed by a first axis of rotation with respect to a base of the head, a second body coupled in a rotary manner to the first body, a third body traversed by a second axis of rotation, and being coupled in a rotary manner to the second body. A user may lock by a single movement of a control member both the relative rotation of the first and second bodies about the first axis and the rotation of the second and third bodies about the second axis. The lock may be a tie-rod extended from the control member along the second axis and a slider connected to the tie-rod and interposed between the first body and the second body configured to lock the relative rotation of the second body with respect to the third body. |
| US08807849B2 |
Frame and insert for mounting mobile device to a tripod
An apparatus for mounting a mobile device on a tripod includes a frame with a rigid peripheral member defining an opening therethrough. The peripheral member includes a mount configured to releasably couple the frame to the tripod. An insert is sized and shaped to be placed into the opening of the frame and releasably engage at least a portion of the peripheral member in an assembled configuration. The insert has a membrane in the form of a cavity configured to releasably receive and support the mobile device. The membrane extends over at least a portion of the opening of the frame in the assembled configuration and includes at least one camera hole extending therethrough that is aligned with a camera lens of the mobile device when the mobile device is mounted in the cavity. |
| US08807846B2 |
Pluggable optical transceiver
A pluggable optical transceiver includes: a top housing; a bottom housing; and an optical-electrical assembly enclosed by the top housing and the bottom housing. The optical-electrical assembly includes a substrate; at least a transmitting optoelectronic component disposed on the substrate; at least a receiving optoelectronic component disposed on the substrate; interface integrated circuits disposed on the substrate; a pluggable electrical interface disposed on the substrate and electrically connected with the interface integrated circuits; and a coupling optical system. |
| US08807845B2 |
Shutter member for optical fiber adapter and optical fiber adapter with the same
An optical fiber adapter according to the present disclosure includes a main body and an elastic shutter member. The main body has an accommodation room defined by a first wall, a second wall, a third wall and a fourth wall, wherein the first wall faces the third wall and connects with the second and fourth walls. An indentation is formed within the accommodation room and on the third wall. The shutter member includes two fixing portions positioned within the accommodation room and on the third wall, a shutter plate, a connecting portion connecting the fixing portions with the shutter plate, and a hooking portion positioned within the accommodation room. The hooking portion extends from the connecting portion to hook on to the indentation on the third wall, and the shutter plate extends from the connecting portion and into the accommodation room. |
| US08807837B1 |
Bearing assemblies including a thermally conductive structure, bearing apparatuses, and methods of use
Embodiments of the invention are directed to bearing assemblies configured to effectively provide heat distribution from and/or heat dissipation for bearing element, bearing apparatuses including such bearing assemblies, and methods of operating such bearing assemblies and apparatuses. In an embodiment, a bearing assembly includes a plurality of superhard bearing elements distributed about an axis. Each superhard bearing element of the plurality of superhard bearing elements has a superhard material including a superhard surface. Additionally, a support ring structure that includes a support ring that supports the plurality of superhard bearing elements and a thermally-conductive structure in thermal communication with the superhard table of each of the plurality of superhard bearing elements. The thermally-conductive structure has a higher thermal conductivity than the support ring of the support ring structure. |
| US08807835B2 |
Slide unit mechanism
A slide unit mechanism includes a sliding plate including slide parts and rattle preventing mechanisms that engage the sliding plate to prevent the sliding plate from rattling. Each of the rattle preventing mechanisms includes a recess; an opening positioned on a moving path of the slide part; a locking torsion spring disposed in the recess, one end of which is attached to an engaging part protruding from the opening on the moving path of the slide part; and an engaging recess formed in the slide part and configured to engage the engaging part. When the sliding plate is slid to the open position or the closed position, the engaging part engages the engaging recess and is biased by elastic force of the locking torsion spring toward the engaging recess. |
| US08807833B2 |
Controlled gantry imbalance
An imaging system includes a stationary frame (104) and a pivotable frame (106) that is pivotably attached to the stationary frame (104) and configured to pivot about a transverse axis (108). A rotating frame (110) is rotatably supported by the pivotable portion (106) and configured to rotate about a longitudinal axis (114) around an examination region (112) and a rotating frame balancer (118) selectively introduces a rotating frame mass imbalance. A radiation source (116) is affixed to the rotating frame (110) and emits radiation from a focal spot, wherein the radiation traverses the examination region (112). A detector array (128) detects the radiation that traverses the examination region (112) and generates a signal indicative thereof. |
| US08807829B2 |
Watch with replaceable decorating element
A watch comprises a body and a strap with a first through hole. A decorating substrate with a second through hole is provided on an upper surface of the strap and a snap ring is provided below a lower surface of the strap, in which the decorating substrate and the snap ring are attached correspondingly with the first through hole. The body is installed into the first and second through holes. An upper surface of the body comprises an extending edge which is attached on an upper edge of the second through hole in the decorating substrate. The body further comprises a bottom end extending through the first through hole. The bottom end of the body is provided with an external thread. The snap ring forms a thread connection with the bottom end and is attached below a lower edge of the first through hole in the strap. |
| US08807827B2 |
Detent escapement and mechanical timepiece
A detent escapement for a timepiece includes an escape wheel, a balance having an unlocking jewel, and a blade. A rotation reference line is formed by a straight line passing through a rotation center of the blade in a state where the balance is at an oscillation center. In order to balance (1) a sum total of the effects on rotational movement of the balance caused by “impulse before dead point” and by “resistance after dead point”, which together comprise the total effect causing the timepiece to advance, and (2) a sum total of the effects on rotational movement of the balance caused by “resistance before dead point” and by “impact after dead point”, which together comprise the total effect causing the timepiece to slow, the unlocking jewel is aligned with the rotation reference line and positioned at a position facing towards a direction farthest from the escape wheel. |
| US08807825B2 |
Gear box with variably coupled oscillation and rotation for kneading machine
A gear box for a reciprocating kneader. A primary rotational gear is attached to a gear box primary shaft and rotates in concert therewith. A secondary rotational gear is engaged with the primary rotation gear and rotates therewith. A secondary shaft is attached to the secondary rotational gear and rotates therewith. A primary oscillation gear is attached to the gear box primary shaft and rotates therewith. A secondary oscillation gear is rotationally engaged with the primary oscillation gear and rotates on the secondary shaft. An eccentric is coupled to the secondary oscillation gear and rotates in concert therewith. A yoke is engaged with the eccentric and oscillates on an axis perpendicular to the secondary shaft in response to the lobe. The gearbox secondary shaft moves along its axis in concert with yoke oscillation. A housing is pivotally attached to the yoke and pivotally attached to a casing at a casing. |
| US08807821B2 |
Device for mixing a compound in a container
A device for mixing a liquid present in a container is provided with a threaded spindle that can be attached in the container, a body that is provided with an internal thread and can be moved by pivoting about a horizontal axis along the threaded spindle being disposed on the threaded spindle. The body is provided with mixing and/or stirring elements substantially protruding in the radial direction. |
| US08807819B2 |
Illumination unit and display apparatus using the same
An illumination unit of the present invention includes a tabular light guide plate having a light emitting surface for emitting light coming from an LED as planar light, wherein a recessed portion is formed in the opposite surface of the light emitting surface of the light guide plate, and wherein the LED is provided in the recessed portion so that the optical axis of the LED becomes parallel to the light emitting surface of the light guide plate. Then, a dimming pattern is provided at a location corresponding to the LED of the light emitting surface of the light guide plate, and the dimming pattern includes a main portion covering the LED on the light emitting surface side, and protrusions radially extending toward a light emitting direction of the LED around the LED. |
| US08807815B2 |
Light source structure for optical fiber display device and optical fiber display device
Embodiments of the present invention provide a light source structure for optical fiber display device and an optical fiber display device. The light source structure for optical fiber display device comprises a light source. The light source structure for optical fiber display device is of a hollow truncated cone structure, a upper surface, a side surface and a lower surface of the hollow truncated cone structure are constituted by the light source, a reflection cover and an optical fiber connection surface, respectively, a light emitting surface of the light source is disposed to face the optical fiber connection surface, a reflection surface of the reflection cover is provided inside the hollow truncated cone structure, and the optical fiber connection surface has an optical fiber connection region that corresponds to the position of the light source and has a same size as the light source. |
| US08807813B2 |
Ring light illuminator and beam shaper for ring light illuminator
A ring light illuminator with annularly arranged light sources is disclosed. To each light source there corresponds a beam shaper comprising a light collector, a homogenizing means for light from the light source, and an imaging means for imaging an output of the homogenizing means into an area to be illuminated. The homogenizing means in embodiments is a rod, into which light from the light collector is directed. The end of the rod opposite the light collector is imaged by the imaging means into the area to be illuminated. |
| US08807810B2 |
Three-dimensional information presentation device
Three-dimensional information is presented directly on the surface of a target three-dimensional object without using a display device such as a display monitor and an HUD. Spatially coded light patterns are projected from two projectors on a target object surface. The light projected from the two projectors are added up on the object surface to produce unified color and luminance. On the object surface, light is simply added up, so that a pattern whose color and brightness correspond to distance and height appears. Hence, a distance to an object or a three-dimensional shape of an object can be highlighted by the color and brightness presented on the object for perception by human beings. |
| US08807809B2 |
Lighting device
A lighting device for vehicles with a plurality of light sources arranged like a matrix in a light generation level, with a light forming optic unit arranged in front of the light sources in a primary direction of emission, and with another optic unit arranged between the light forming optic unit and the light sources, comprising a plurality of optic elements, with the optic elements being arranged like a matrix and one optic element each being allocated to a light source, with the additional optic unit being embodied as a widening optic unit with a plurality of band reflector segments arranged intersecting to form polygonal reflectors as optic elements and with a plurality of light forming elements, which are arranged like a matrix corresponding to the light sources and arranged between the light sources and the polygonal reflectors. |
| US08807808B2 |
LED retrofit vehicle tail lamp
A replacement vehicular lamp assembly (10) configured for insertion into a vehicle chassis-mounted lamp housing (110) originally containing an incandescent lamp (118) installed in an aperture (102) in a chassis-mounted reflector (116). Lamp assembly (10) has a housing (12) supporting LED(s) and displaceably mounted reflector segments (40) moveable between a closed configuration facilitating installation through the aperture (102) and an outwardly open configuration for function within the lamp housing (110) to form a first reflector (38). A biasing mechanism (25) biases the reflector segments (40) to the open configuration to deploy the first reflector (38) overlying the chassis-mounted reflector (116) so that light from the LED is received on the first reflector (38) defined by the reflector segments (40). |
| US08807806B2 |
Illumination device for vehicle
An illumination device for a vehicle includes a light source and an inside handle well. The inside handle well has a lower wall, an upper wall, and an opening. The light source is arranged under the lower wall. The lower wall has a light exit portion configured such that light emitted from the light source exits therethrough and travels to an inside of the inside handle well. The upper wall has a light reflecting portion configured to reflect light exiting through the light exit portion and traveling upward in the inside handle well toward the inside handle. The opening is formed on the inner side of the interior of the vehicle. |
| US08807800B2 |
Illumination structure and assembly method of light base and cover
An illumination structure including an illumination module, a light base and a cover is provided. The light base includes a cylindrical shell and an electrical connector, wherein the cylindrical shell is used for receiving and supporting the illumination module. A first end of the cylindrical shell has a first edge including a plurality of protrusions. A second end of the cylindrical shell is connected to the electrical connector. The cover has a second edge including a plurality of recessions. Each recession is complementary in shape to a corresponding protrusion, so that the protrusions are received in corresponding recessions respectively. |
| US08807797B2 |
Structures
An ornamental fixture having a support structure and a plurality of ornaments mounted to the support structure in a substantially completely spherical arrangement of ornaments. The ornaments may be glass crystal ornaments, for example, octagonal glass crystals, and a light may be mounted within the fixture. The support structure may include an upper support ring and at least one lower support ring vertically spaced from the upper support ring and a plurality of arcuate sector assemblies removably mounted to the upper support ring and the at least one lower support ring. The sector assemblies retain the ornaments to provide a substantially continuous 360-degree array of ornaments. The sector assemblies can also be disassembled from the support structure for maintenance, servicing, relamping, and cleaning of the fixture. For example, the disassembled components of the fixture may be washed in a dishwasher without damaging the ornaments or the support structure. |
| US08807796B2 |
Integrally formed light emitting diode light wire and uses thereof
Integrally formed LED light wires are provided, comprising a conductive base comprising a support substrate, wherein the support substrate comprises a first plurality of wires, threads, or a combination thereof, wherein the plurality of wires, threads, or a combination thereof comprises at least one weft element arranged in a first direction and at least two warp elements, each arranged in a second direction such that the at least one weft element and each of the at least two warp elements form plural intersections therebetween, a first bus element and a second bus element, each adapted to distribute power from a power source, a third bus element adapted to distribute a control signal, wherein the first, second, and third bus elements are woven, stitched, or knitted into the support substrate; and a plurality of light emitting diode (LED) modules, each LED module comprising a microcontroller and at least one LED. |
| US08807794B2 |
Illumination device
An illumination device includes a base, a flexible circuit board disposed on the base, and a plurality of illumination units. The flexible circuit board has a plurality of first branches and at least one second branch which are connected together. Each of the first branches has a radius of curvature, and the radii of curvature of the first branches are different from or identical to one another, so that the first branches are assembled to form a curved surface. The second branch extends from one of the first branches. After the first branches are assembled, the second branch is overlapped with another first branch. The illumination units are packaged onto the first branches of the flexible circuit board. Here, the illumination units located on one of the first branches is electrically connected to the illumination units located on another of the first branches through the second branch. |
| US08807790B2 |
Lighting apparatus
A lighting apparatus is disclosed herein that may omni-directionally radiate light emitted from a light emitting diode (LED). The lighting apparatus may include a heat sink and a mounting block provided over the heat sink. A light emitting module may be provided on a side surface of the mounting block. A reflector may be provided over the heat sink, adjacent to a lower end of the mounting block, to reflect light from the LED. An enclosure may be provided over the heat sink to surround the mounting block to diffuse the light. The light axis of the LED may be directed to a side region of the bulb and the reflector may include an inclined surface that is inclined at a second prescribed angle away from the light axis to distribute the light in an omni-directional angular region. |
| US08807789B2 |
LED illumination device for projecting light downward and to the side
An LED (light emitting diode) illumination device that can generate a uniform light output illumination pattern. The illumination device includes an array of LEDs, each having a LED central axis. The LED central axis of the array of LEDs is angled approximately toward a central point. The illumination source includes a reflector with a conic or conic-like shape. The reflector wraps around the front of the LED to redirect the light emitted along a LED central axis. |
| US08807783B2 |
Light emitting diode retrofit kit for high intensity discharge lighting
A housing once included a high intensity discharge (HID) light source, lens, and fixture chamber between the housing and lens. The housing is retrofit to exclude a routinely functioning HID light source and exclude at least a portion of the HID lens. The housing is made to include at least a first support for at least one light emitting diode (LED) light source and an LED diode lighting fixture chamber. A second support is affixed at least to the first support and is positioned at least in part outside the LED fixture chamber. The LED light source is mounted to the second support outside the LED fixture chamber. At least one LED light source lens is mounted to provide a lens for the LED light source, also outside the LED lighting fixture chamber. The LED light source is thereby substantially free of exposure to the temperature effects. |
| US08807782B2 |
Backlight module
A backlight module includes a housing, a light emitting unit, plural supporters and a light guiding plate. The housing includes a base and a first frame and a second frame arranged on two opposite sides of the base. Each supporter includes two supporting portions placed on two opposite sides of the light emitting unit. Each supporting portion includes a supporting surface facing the light emitting unit, wherein the supporting surface is slant. A distance between two opposite supporting portions is increased along a direction from the base to a top surface of the supporter. The light guiding plate is arranged on the supporting surfaces of the supporters. The light guiding plate includes a light input surface facing to the light emitting unit and a light output surface facing the first frame. |
| US08807781B2 |
Portable light with safety lock
A portable light or other device having a safety lock may comprise: a body having an opening; a cover for engaging and covering the opening of the body; and a lock mechanism including a lock member for engaging the body and the cover for preventing removal of the cover from the body unless the lock mechanism is released by a tool, wherein the lock member is retained on the body or on the cover when the lock mechanism is engaged and when the lock mechanism is released. The cover may be a light head or a light source. |
| US08807779B1 |
Illumination device and method
An illumination device for use with a firearm and a method of using the same are disclosed. The illumination device can include a gun grip cover configured to attach to a gun grip. The illumination device can have a first illumination element extending to the left of the gun grip cover and a second illumination element extending to the right of the gun grip cover. The illumination elements can deliver a spread of light to illuminate a large area. The illumination elements can be laterally adjacent to the barrel. The illumination elements can be controlled by a control switch positioned below the trigger. |
| US08807778B1 |
Lighted helmet assembly
A lighted helmet assembly is provided for enhancing visibility of the wearer for safety and providing signals of the intended direction of travel of the user. The assembly includes a curved shell having a bottom opening such that the shell is configured for fitting over and around a human head. The shell has an interior surface and an exterior surface. A liner is coupled to the interior surface and a plurality of lights is coupled to the exterior surface of the shell. The plurality of lights includes a plurality of directional lights, each being selectively activated to indicate an intended direction of travel by a user wearing the shell. |
| US08807776B2 |
Backlight unit for dynamic image and display employing the same
A backlight unit for a dynamic image and a display employing the same are provided. The backlight unit is used for a light source of a display and includes light-emitting devices located separately on a substrate, an image analyzer which analyzes an image signal and extracts position information on a region requiring the relative increase or decrease of brightness, and a control unit which independently drives and controls the light-emitting devices located in a region corresponding to the position information inputted from the image board. Accordingly, the display employing the backlight unit can provide a more dynamic and realistic image. |
| US08807774B2 |
Semispecular hollow backlight with gradient extraction
A backlight that includes a front reflector and a back reflector that form a hollow light recycling cavity including an output surface is disclosed. The backlight also includes a semi-specular element, and a light extraction element disposed within the hollow cavity. The light extraction element has a gradient specularity. The backlight also includes one or more light sources disposed to inject light into the hollow light recycling cavity, where the one or more light sources are configured to inject light over a limited angular range. |
| US08807772B2 |
Backlight unit, display device therewith, and lighting systems therewith
Embodiments relate to a backlight unit, a display device therewith, and a lighting system therewith, the backlight unit including a first reflector and a second reflector, at least one light source disposed between the first reflector and the second reflector, an upper cover plate and a lower cover plate separate from each other, and a heat dissipation unit for holding the light source and being disposed between the upper cover plate and the lower cover plate to dissipate heat from the light source. |
| US08807768B2 |
Display apparatus
A display apparatus includes a display module, a front panel provided in front of the display module, and a pattern which is formed over the front panel. One portion of the pattern that is closer to an edge of the front panel allows for less transmittance of light than other portions of the pattern. |
| US08807766B2 |
Laser scanning projection apparatus with phase detection and compensation
A laser scanning projection apparatus includes an illumination unit, a projection surface, a scanning mirror, a projection window, an optical sensor, and a controlling unit. The projection window includes a transmissible part and a blocking part. A reflection-differential pattern is formed on the blocking part. When the laser beam reflected by the scanning mirror is projected on the transmissible part, the laser beam is transmitted through the transmissible part and projected on the projection surface. When the laser beam reflected by the scanning mirror is projected on the reflection-differential pattern, a reflective beam with different intensities is reflected by the reflection-differential pattern. The controlling unit calculates a phase difference between an actual projection position and a predetermined projection position of the laser beam according to the sensing signal, and compensating a subsequent image frame according to the phase difference. |
| US08807763B2 |
Image projection apparatus
An image projection apparatus includes: an optical image generating unit to generate an optical image based on image data; a projection surface; a projection optical system including a plurality of optical elements and configured to form an projected image, onto a projection surface, coupled with the optical image generated by the optical image generating unit; a projected image shifting unit to shift the projected image by changing a posture of at least one of the plurality of optical elements included in the projection optical system; a tilt sensor to detect a posture of the optical element of which posture is changed by the projected image shifting unit; and a trapezoidal distortion correction unit to correct the optical image generated by the optical image generating unit so as to prevent the trapezoidal distortion of the projected image from occurring based on the detection result of the tilt sensor. |
| US08807754B2 |
Projector
A projector adapted to switch between a right-eye image and a left-eye image at predetermined timings to output the right-eye image and the left-eye image alternately, includes: a discharge lamp; a discharge lamp drive section adapted to supply the discharge lamp with a drive current for driving the discharge lamp; and a control section adapted to control the discharge lamp drive section, wherein a period between the switching timings temporally adjacent to each other starts with a first period and ends with a second period, and the control section performs a second period alternating-current control process for controlling the discharge lamp drive section so that an absolute value of the drive current becomes relatively small in the first period, and becomes relatively large in the second period, and an alternating current is supplied to the discharge lamp as the drive current in the second period. |
| US08807750B2 |
Image acquisition apparatus and control method therefor
Provided is an image acquisition apparatus for acquiring a 3D retinal image with high resolution, which is capable of reducing a time period required for data transmission. In the image acquisition apparatus: a blink of a subject is detected; acquisition of image taking data is suspended thereafter until a line of sight becomes stable; and the data transmission to a computer is started at a timing at which a blink has been detected, thereby avoiding acquiring unnecessary data, allowing a capacity of a data buffer to be smaller, and making the data transmission efficient. |
| US08807740B2 |
Conveying device and inkjet recording apparatus
A conveying device includes: first rollers; second rollers; and a roller holder. Each first roller is movable along a conveying direction of a sheet between a first position and a second position. The roller holder includes: a roller accommodating portion; an abutment member; and a slide portion. The abutment member is movable along the conveying direction between a third position and a fourth position. The abutment member moves each first roller from the first position to the second position while moving from the third position to the fourth position, and moves each first roller from the second position to the first position while moving from the fourth position to the third position. The slide portion is movable along an arrayed direction of the first rollers between a fifth position and a sixth position. The slide portion is moved from the fifth position to the sixth position to move the abutment member from the third position to the fourth position, and moved from the sixth position to the fifth position to move the abutment member from the fourth position to the third position. |
| US08807738B2 |
Carriage activated pump for inkjet printer
An inkjet printer includes a printhead; a carriage for moving the printhead back and forth in a carriage scan direction across the printing region; an output roller that is downstream of the printing region for moving recording medium away from the printing region, the output roller including a shaft; a pump that is coaxially disposed around the shaft of the output roller; and a restraining lever that disconnects the pump from power when the carriage is not in contact with the restraining lever. |
| US08807736B1 |
Low-temperature gas flow insertion in printing system dryers
Systems and methods are provided for inserting low temperature gas into dryers of printing systems. The system comprises a dryer, which includes a heating element and a flow generator. The heating element is within an interior of the dryer and is able to heat a web of printed media as the web travels through the interior. The flow generator is within the interior and is operable to directly project an impinging jet of gas along a width of the web that deflects heated air proximate to the web. The gas is cooler than the heated air. |
| US08807732B2 |
Ultraviolet irradiation unit
An ultraviolet irradiation unit (100) is provided with an ultraviolet irradiation device (50) and an ink mist sucking and removing device (60). The ink mist sucking and removing device (60) includes a blower fan (62), an air filter (63) and a device cover (61) for forming an air flow passage whose one end is provided with a suction port (64) located in an upper vicinity of a printing object (80) and whose another end is provided with a ventilation port (58a) facing an LED drive circuit board (55). Air in the upper vicinity of a printing object (80) is sucked through the suction port (64) by the blower fan (62), ink mist included in the air is removed by the air filter (63), and cleaned air discharged through the ventilation port (58a) is blown to an LED circuit board (51), an LED drive circuit board (55). |
| US08807728B2 |
Inkjet recording method
An inkjet recording method is provided in which image formation is carried out by employing an ink set, the inks of each color including a polymerizable compound and a polymerization initiator, and discharge of the inks being repeated 2 to 16 times for the same area. |
| US08807726B2 |
Inkjet recording apparatus
An inkjet recording apparatus capable of determining an amount of bubbles in an ink flow path and performing suction recovery operation at an appropriate timing is provided. The inkjet recording apparatus includes a recording head including a nozzle for discharging ink and a flow path forming member forming an ink flow path for supplying the ink to the nozzle, a suction unit configured to suck the ink from the recording head, and a temperature detection unit configured to detect a temperature in the recording head. The inkjet recording apparatus includes a control unit configured, based on an amount of gas in the flow path forming member before the ink is filled in the ink flow path, and an amount of gas in equilibrium in the flow path forming member after the ink is filled in the ink flow path, to control the operation of the suction unit. |
| US08807717B2 |
Liquid supply device and liquid jetting system
A liquid supply device 10 is equipped with a liquid containing chamber 16, a transport tube 15 for sending the liquid inside the chamber 16 to a liquid jetting device 20, first and second members 171 and 172 sandwiching the tube 15, and a cam 173 that determines the position of the first member 171 relative to the second member 172. The tube 15 is equipped with an elastic portion 151 that elastically deforms and is flattened. In the first rotation position, the cam 173 arranges the first member 171 such that there is a space that allows the liquid to flow inside the part 151 between the first and second members 171, 172. In the second rotation position, the cam 173 arranges the first member 171 such that the elastic portion 151 is flattened by the first and second members 171, 172, and the liquid inside cannot flow. |
| US08807716B2 |
Ink delivery
Among other things, an apparatus for use in ink jetting includes a reservoir system including a reservoir to contain a volume of ink to be delivered to and jetted from at least two jetting assemblies onto a substrate in an ink jetting direction. The reservoir system is located adjacent to at least two of the jetting assemblies along the ink jetting direction. |
| US08807714B2 |
Ink-jet recording apparatus
An ink-jet recording apparatus has a print head 13 incorporating: a nozzle 20, which vibrates ink at a constant cycle, jets out the ink, and atomizes the ink; an electrification electrode 26, which electrify an ink particle 19; and deflection electrodes 27b, which deflect the electrified ink particle in a main scanning direction. The print head 13 carries out printing by causing the ink particle to fly to a printing workpiece W conveyed by a conveyer 15. Flying time of the ink particle in a printing distance La between the printing workpiece W and the print head 13 is calculated, timing of an electrification signal supplied to the electrification electrode 26 is controlled in accordance with the flying time, and a printing position to the printing workpiece W is set. Thus, printing can be carried out at a predetermined position to the printing workpiece W, and printing quality can be enhanced. |
| US08807713B2 |
Liquid ejection head
A liquid ejection head includes multiple tubular pressure chambers and a stacked body having first substrates and second substrates stacked alternately, in which the first substrates each have multiple first grooves and multiple second grooves formed therein, and the second substrates each has multiple third grooves formed therein, in which, in the multiple first grooves of each of the first substrates, inner surface electrodes are formed, in which counter electrodes are formed in a face of each of the second substrates, and in which a width W1 of each of the inner surface electrodes, a width W2 of each of the counter electrodes, and a width WP of each of the multiple first grooves satisfy a relation of WP |
| US08807712B2 |
Inkjet printer head
An inkjet printer head includes: a semiconductor substrate; a vibration diaphragm provided on the semiconductor substrate and capable of vibrating in an opposing direction in which the vibration diaphragm is opposed to the semiconductor substrate; a piezoelectric element provided on the vibration diaphragm; a pressure chamber provided on a side of the vibration diaphragm adjacent to the semiconductor substrate as facing the vibration diaphragm, the pressure chamber being filled with an ink; and a nozzle extending through the vibration diaphragm and communicating with the pressure chamber for ejecting the ink supplied from the pressure chamber. |
| US08807711B2 |
Ink jet print head with piezoelectric actuator
An ink jet print head, having a pressure generation chamber arranged for being in communication with a print head nozzle and an actuator membrane for delimiting the pressure generation chamber. The actuator membrane has a substrate and a piezoelectric actuator provided on the substrate, said piezoelectric actuator having a lower electrode, an upper electrode and at least one piezoelectric layer arranged between the lower electrode and the upper electrode; the substrate and the upper electrode are arranged on opposite sides of the piezoelectric layer, and the upper electrode has a Titanium-Tungsten film. |
| US08807710B2 |
Method of manufacturing liquid ejecting head, piezoelectric element, and liquid ejecting device
A piezoelectric element equipped with a piezoelectric layer and an electrode provided on the piezoelectric layer, comprising the piezoelectric layer, which is made from a complex oxide having a perovskite structure containing Bi, Fe, Ba and Ti, and which has a residual stress of 250 MPa or more, and a method of manufacturing a liquid ejecting head equipped with a piezoelectric layer and an electrode provided on the piezoelectric layer, the method including forming the piezoelectric layer, which is made from a complex oxide having a perovskite structure containing Bi, Fe, Ba and Ti, and which has a residual stress of 250 MPa or more. |
| US08807704B2 |
Inkjet recording device having waste liquid chamber
An inkjet recording device includes a recording head, a pump, a waste liquid chamber, and a first support. The recording head has a nozzle surface formed with a nozzle from which ink droplet is ejected to form an image onto a recording medium. The pump is configured to draw ink from the recording head. The waste liquid chamber is configured to accommodate the ink drawn by the pump. The first support is configured to support the waste liquid chamber at a position above the nozzle surface. |
| US08807703B2 |
Liquid ejection apparatus
A liquid ejection apparatus includes an apparatus main body, a liquid ejection head which is provided on the apparatus main body and ejects liquid onto a recording medium, a draw-out path which is provided on the apparatus main body, a waste liquid unit which is provided on the draw-out path in a detachable manner and reserves waste liquid wastefully ejected from the liquid ejection head, an opening from which a transportation path for transporting the recording medium is exposed, and an opening/closing unit which is provided to be capable of opening and closing the opening, and at least a part of which is located on the draw-out path and covers at least a part of the waste liquid unit in a state where the waste liquid unit is attached to the draw-out path and the opening is closed. |
| US08807702B2 |
Inkjet printer
An inkjet printer has a nozzle cap that keeps the nozzle surface of the inkjet head moisturized, and can keep the nozzle cap moist by means of a simple mechanism. A check processing device incorporating the inkjet printer has an inkjet head, a nozzle cap that covers the nozzle surface of the inkjet head and keeps the nozzle surface moist, and a shutter that closes the open part of the nozzle cap to keep the inside of the nozzle cap moist. When the nozzle surface of the inkjet head is not capped, a moisture retention state in which moisture inside the nozzle cap is prevented from evaporating can be held by the shutter covering the open part of the nozzle cap. |
| US08807696B2 |
Colorimetric apparatus and colorimetric method
In an apparatus including an irradiation unit capable of irradiating a sheet with at least either visible light or ultraviolet light, and an acquisition unit which acquires a spectral reflectance for each of a plurality of wavelength regions based on light reflected by the sheet, a spectral reflectance acquired by the acquisition unit when the sheet is irradiated with the visible light is stored in a memory unit. A storing unit stores, in the memory unit, a spectral reflectance in a wavelength region shorter than a predetermined wavelength among spectral reflectances acquired by the acquisition unit when the sheet is irradiated with both the visible light and the ultraviolet light. |
| US08807695B1 |
System and method for estimating ink usage in an inkjet printer
An inkjet printer estimates ink usage in the printer with reference to image pixels and a history of inkjet firing for each inkjet. The printer includes an apparatus that generates an ink mass for each image pixel with reference to the image pixel and a predetermined number of previously ejected image pixels and identifies a total ink mass measurement for a printhead with reference to the ink masses generated for the image pixels of an image to be printed by the inkjet printer. |
| US08807694B2 |
Wicking accumulated ink away from optical sensor in inkjet printer
An inkjet printer includes an inkjet printhead having a printhead die with an array of nozzles, and a media advance system for moving recording medium along a media path toward a print region. A carriage moves the inkjet printhead back and forth across the print region, and the carriage includes a holding receptacle for the inkjet printhead. The holding receptacle includes a bottom portion having an opening into which the printhead die extends. A viewing hole is disposed in the bottom portion of the holding receptacle for providing an optical pathway between an optical sensor and a portion of the media path. A wick is configured to contact the bottom portion of the holding receptacle proximate the viewing hole for removing accumulated ink. |
| US08807692B2 |
Incorrect stitching detection in a printing system
A method for monitoring stitching between two adjacent printheads includes capturing one or more images of content printed on a moving print media in at least a stitch boundary or overlap region to obtain pixel data. The pixel data is then averaged in a media transport direction to produce blur in an image or images. Derivative data of the averaged pixel data is determined and one or more peaks is detected in the derivative data. A type of stitching artifact is determined based on the detected peak in the derivative data. |
| US08807691B2 |
Print head alignment mechanism
A printing system is disclosed. The printing system includes a print engine including two or more print heads to generate an alignment chart and an alignment system. The alignment system receives the alignment chart and computes a magnitude of misalignment between the print heads. |
| US08807690B2 |
Test-pattern forming method, computer readable medium for forming a test-pattern, and printer
A method of forming a test pattern in a printer, wherein the printer may include at least one liquid discharge head including a nozzle plate, and the nozzle plate has a plurality of nozzles formed therethrough, wherein the plurality of nozzles are configured to discharge a liquid and are arranged in a plurality of rows which are parallel to each other and extend in a particular direction, the method may comprise the steps of selecting a first nozzle of the plurality of nozzles from a first row of the plurality of rows, selecting a second nozzle of the plurality of nozzles from a second row of the plurality of rows, and discharging the liquid from the first nozzle and from the second nozzle onto a medium, wherein a third row of the plurality of rows is positioned between the first row and the second row. |
| US08807689B2 |
Image recording device, image recording method
An image recording device includes: a conveyor unit for conveying a recording medium along a conveyance pathway of the recording medium by rotating a first drive roller and a second drive roller provided to the conveyance pathway; a recording unit for recording an image onto the recording medium in a first region between the first drive roller and the second drive roller on the conveyance pathway; and a control unit for applying a first tension to the recording medium in the first region by controlling the torque of the second drive roller, while also adjusting the rotational speed of the first drive roller; wherein the control unit controls the conveyor unit to thereby apply a second tension that is lower than the first tension to the recording medium in a second region on the opposite side of the first region from the second drive roller in the conveyance pathway. |
| US08807688B2 |
Recording systems and additional output stackers used therewith
An image recording apparatus includes an apparatus-side transport destination switching unit that may switch selectively the transport destination of paper on which an image has been recorded between an apparatus-side output tray and an additional output stacker. The additional output stacker includes an additional output tray that may be configured to receive paper; a stacker-side transport unit that is configured to transport paper, which has been transported from the image recording apparatus, to the additional output tray; and a stacker-side controller that controls the transport destination switching unit of the image recording apparatus. When a paper jam is detected on the stacker-side transport unit, the additional unit controller controls the apparatus-side transport destination switching unit, so that the transport destination of the paper may be switched from the additional output tray to the apparatus-side output tray. |
| US08807687B2 |
Printing method and printing apparatus
A plurality of images is sequentially printed on a sheet, and the sheet is cut at a cut position that is behind the finally-printed image. At that time, if an inappropriate region of the fed sheet that is not suited to printing is detected, and the detected inappropriate region is behind the finally-printed image, the cut position is changed to be behind the detected inappropriate region. |
| US08807682B2 |
Liquid ejecting apparatus with a head securing member and a linear scale, whose materials are selected for specific thermal expansion characteristics
When it is assumed that an expected maximum temperature change from a reference temperature during usage of a printer is Δt, an ink landing interval corresponding to raster resolution on a recording medium in a head main scanning direction is P, a maximum distance between nozzle rows of recording heads on a sub carriage is L, a linear expansion coefficient of a linear scale is α2, and a linear expansion coefficient of the sub carriage is α1, L(|α1−α2|)Δt≦P/2 is satisfied. |
| US08807681B2 |
Inkjet recording apparatus and method for controlling the same
In an inkjet head which has nozzle rows having nozzles each of which ejects curable inks cured by imparted activation energy and which are arranged in a first direction at a pitch P, the nozzle rows being N (N≧5) nozzle rows of every color which eject, respectively, thick inks of four colors including cyan, magenta, yellow and black, and at least one light ink among light inks similar in color tone to the thick inks, the nozzles in each of the nozzle rows are arranged so as to be shifted by P/N from each other in a first direction, a nozzle of an ink with lowest cure sensitivity is arranged on the most upstream side in a direction of relative movement of a recording medium in the first direction, and further the nozzle of light ink is arranged in between the nozzles of two different thick inks. |
| US08807680B2 |
Method and drive circuit for driving piezoelectric element, and liquid-droplet ejection head
A method for driving a piezoelectric element of a head, including: a step of increasing a voltage of a power source to a reference voltage level; and a step of charging one electrode of two electrodes interposing the piezoelectric element to the reference voltage level by repeating source-connections and source-disconnections between the power source and the one electrode while keeping the voltage of the power source at the reference voltage level, such that a ratio of a connection time of each of at least one of second and subsequent connections of the source-connections to a disconnection time of a corresponding source-disconnection continued from each of the at least one of the second and subsequent connections is greater than a ratio of a connection time of a first connection of the source-connections to a disconnection time of a source-disconnection continued from the first connection. |
| US08807675B2 |
Liquid droplet jetting apparatus
A liquid droplet jetting apparatus includes: a liquid droplet jetting head; a liquid kind detecting section detecting whether a liquid, used in the liquid droplet jetting head, is a first liquid having a conductivity of not less than a predetermined value or a second liquid having a conductivity of less than the predetermined value; a discharge mechanism discharging the liquid inside the liquid droplet jetting head therefrom; a waste liquid recovery device recovering the liquid discharged by the discharge mechanism, and including: a waste liquid case, an absorbing body accommodated in the waste liquid case, and a waste liquid detection mechanism measuring an electric current value in the absorbing body and thereby detecting whether or not the liquid arrives at a full-liquid detection position of the absorbing body; and a waste liquid absorb amount estimating section estimating an amount of the waste liquid absorbed in the absorbing body. |
| US08807673B2 |
Refrigerator and/or freezer
A refrigerator and/or freezer has at least one interconnecting element extending between two compartments of the appliance, wherein one or more holding members are provided, which are connected with the inner container of the appliance and on which the interconnecting element is arranged such that the holding member at least partly extends between the inner container and the interconnecting element. |
| US08807664B2 |
Rim protector
A rim protector for a wheel of a vehicle, the rim protector (10) being of the form of a generally circular annulus having an axis (1) defining radial and axial directions, the rim protector comprising a tail portion (32), sized to fit in use between the wheel (3) and a tire (2) fitted to the wheel, and a head portion (31), the head portion (31) being wider than the tail portion, the tail portion extending away from the head portion, in which, when the rim protector (10) is fitted to a wheel (3) such that the tail portion is held between the wheel (3) and the tire (2) and the head portion (32) abuts a rim of the wheel (4), the head portion (31) overlaps the rim (4) and extends further radially over the rim (4) than it does over the tire (2). |
| US08807662B2 |
Auxiliary drive
A construction machine for the treatment of ground surfaces includes a machine frame, a drive motor, a work drum supported from the machine frame and including exchangeable tools fastened to the work drum, a belt drive and an auxiliary drive. The belt drive includes a motor-side pulley connected to the drive motor, a drum-side pulley connected to the work drum, and at least one drive belt connecting the motor-side pulley to the drum-side pulley. The auxiliary drive may be permanently coupled to the belt drive, or the auxiliary drive may include an adjustment mechanism for moving the auxiliary drive between a coupled and an uncoupled position. |
| US08807652B2 |
Back reclining apparatus interlocking with seat cushion for vehicle
A back reclining apparatus interlocking with a seat cushion for a vehicle may include a back frame including a main frame fixed to a vehicle body and a reclining frame that may be selectively reclined around a reclining hinge on an inner surface of the main frame, a reclining locking unit connected to the main frame and the reclining frame to selectively release locking of the main frame and the reclining frame, a cushion locking unit selectively releasing locking of a cushion frame and the reclining frame, and a cushion sliding unit connected between the cushion frame and a floor panel to interlock with the reclining frame and to make the cushion frame move to slide forward when the locking of the reclining locking unit may be released and the reclining frame may be reclined around the reclining hinge. |
| US08807647B2 |
Vehicle seat
In a vehicle seat in which a first member is arranged on a surface of a seat structure member and tucked into a recessed portion, and air blown out from a blower is blown at a seating side of the seat structure member via a flow path portion of a cushion, the flow path portion is provided in a portion of the cushion that is offset from a position where the recessed portion is formed. |
| US08807646B2 |
Assembly for an openable sliding roof
In one embodiment, an assembly for an openable sliding roof having a cover for selectively exposing and closing a roof opening is provided, the assembly having: at least one lever for raising and lowering the cover, the at least one lever being pivotally mounted to the cover; and a height adjusting mechanism for repositioning the lever with respect to the cover, the height adjusting mechanism having an eccentric coupling the lever to the cover. |
| US08807645B2 |
Device for sealing the aperture of a tipped-back sliding roof
The invention relates to a device for sealing the aperture of a tipped-back sliding roof of a car. The device has a control device designed to monitor the gearbox of the car and ensure that the aperture is sealed when the reverse gear is engaged. |
| US08807642B2 |
Mechanism components integrated into structural sunroof framework
Continuous cross sectional profile guide tracks in an outer sliding sunroof/moonroof are provided where both the front and rear mechanism or mechanism links travel fore/aft in the same channels as each other and have fore/aft travel that is limited only by vehicle architecture. The guide track channel is partly or entirely outside/outboard of the primary water/wind sealing system of the sunroof. |
| US08807637B2 |
Angled front hood sealing assembly
A seal assembly for use with the front trunk, motor or engine compartment of an automobile is provided, the seal assembly including a sealing flange, a sealing member attached to an end portion of the sealing flange, and a hood assembly that includes an upper panel and an inner surface comprised of a sealing surface. The sealing surface of the hood assembly is configured to form a seal with the sealing member when the hood assembly is in a closed position. The sealing surface of the hood assembly is spaced apart from the end portion of the sealing flange, thereby allowing the sealing surface to pass by the end portion of the sealing flange when a downward force, such as that experienced during a head-on collision with a pedestrian, is applied to the hood causing the hood assembly to be downwardly displaced past the closed position. |
| US08807636B2 |
Injection moulded structural component with a hollow structural section
An injection-molded structural component, particularly for automotive front end carriers, with a hollow structural section, the hollow structural section including a section body having a cavity with an opening, a section lid secured to the section body via a hinge and hinge-folded onto the opening, and a fastener element for fastening the section lid to the section body such that the hollow structural section withstands dynamical load. |
| US08807634B2 |
Cowl-top cover crossmember having stepped portions
A cowl-top cover 10 for covering a vehicle body between a front window shield and a front hood is provided with: a seal portion abutting against a rear end lower part of the front hood; and a longitudinal wall portion 1 that supports the seal portion and that is erected in a vertical direction of a vehicle, wherein the longitudinal wall 1 includes a stepped portion 3 that is extended along the vertical direction, the longitudinal wall being shaped to be wavy in a widthwise direction of the vehicle. |
| US08807632B2 |
Small overlap frontal impact countermeasure
A frontal impact countermeasure assembly for an automotive vehicle, the countermeasure assembly comprising: a front side rail extending in a generally longitudinal direction and having a forward end; a bumper extending generally laterally to the longitudinal direction of the front side rail and having an outboard end; and a pivot link having outer and inner mounting portions, the outer mounting portion being pivotably engaged with the bumper in a region of the outboard end to define a front pivot joint, the inner mounting portion being pivotably engaged with the front side rail to define a rear pivot joint, the rear pivot joint being located rearward and inward relative to the front pivot joint. |
| US08807631B2 |
Floor module for a motor vehicle with a variable driving concept
A floor module for a motor vehicle includes a floor shell, which can be fastened to a shell of the motor vehicle, and equipment with a plurality of variant-specific constructional units arranged on the floor shell. A method for assembling a floor module involves equipping a respective shell of the motor vehicle with a floor module with corresponding chassis and drive train. |
| US08807630B2 |
Variably openable radiator cowling, shroud, or fairing for over the road vehicles and the like
A cowling assembly (10) is installed about the radiator (R) of a vehicle (V). A frame (12) fits about the radiator and defines an opening through which air can flow into the radiator. The frame has a contour that allows air flow smoothly about the frame. A cover including a panel (18) or a coiled sheet (118) is movable through the frame to cover the opening. A motor (50) operated by a controller (80) moves the panels or sheets to expose a portion of the opening and allow air to flow into the radiator. The frame and the panel or sheet facilitate smoother air flow over and about the front of the vehicle thereby reducing the amount of drag on it while still allowing air flow into the radiator. |
| US08807623B2 |
Adjustable footrest
An adjustable footrest includes various components that allow positions of the footrest to be changed or customized. For example, the angle, the depth, and the rotation of the footrest may be adjusted. Some footrest components may include a pivoting base. In addition, a tilt angle of a foot-support plate may be adjusted with respect to the pivoting base. |
| US08807622B2 |
Urging device
An urging device is interposed between a first member and a second member. The urging device includes a supporting base formed on the first member, an abutting body including turning axes supported rotatably on the supporting base, and elastically contacting the second member, and an elastic member held in the abutting body and urging the abutting body by one end thereof in an elastically contacting direction. The supporting base includes bearing portions supporting the turning axes, and a locking portion locking the other end of the elastic member. |
| US08807621B2 |
Insert for a dashboard
A unit for storing items in a motor vehicle interior includes a main storage compartment and a docking station for a portable electronic device such as a smart phone or a navigation device. A main cover is movably attached to the storage compartment to enclose the main storage compartment, and a docking cover encloses a sub-portion of the storage compartment. The docking cover is movable to an in-service position wherein its underside is exposed. A device holder is attached to the underside of the docking cover for holding a mobile electronic device in an access position when in the docking cover is in the in-service position. The docking cover and the portion are inset relative to a perimeter of the storage compartment, so that the docking station forms a portion of a main perimeter of the storage compartment. |
| US08807618B2 |
Connecting device for multifunctional box and vehicle comprising the same
A connecting device adapted for connecting a multifunctional box with a vehicle multimedia system may be provided. The connecting device may comprise a shell for holding the multifunctional box having a first open end portion and a second end portion configured with an interface, via which the multifunctional box is electrically connected with the vehicle multimedia system in a releasable manner; a locking unit formed on at least a lateral side between the first open portion and the second end portion for releasably locking the multifunctional box; and a release unit formed on the shell to release the inserted multifunctional box when pressed. A vehicle comprising the connecting device may also be provided. |
| US08807615B2 |
Selectively bendable remote gripping tool
A hand-held remote access device, such as a gripping tool, includes a jaw portion having a pair of jaws movable relative to each other between fully clamped and fully opened positions thereof, a handle portion spaced apart from the jaw portion by a bendable central portion that has a hollow, corrugated member having alternating ridges and grooves that is bendable so as to attain a predetermined shape. |
| US08807613B2 |
Container grabbing device
A mechanized gripping apparatus for grabbing collection containers of a range of sizes is disclosed. The apparatus has converging opposed cylinder-operated finger arrangements which pivot together to close about a container for gripping and open to release a container. |
| US08807612B2 |
Transport device
A transport device for securing elongated items during transport and storage has the new feature that the set of profiled beams includes at least three profiled beams, namely a first, a second and a third profiled beam, the profiled beams being built upon each other layer by layer and connected to each other in respective layers. Each layer of pipes or items is surrounded by two profiled beams which are fixed to each other by a joining arrangement. Thus, each layer is individually fixed, and only the uppermost layer in a packet of longitudinal items is loose during packing and unpacking. Advantageously, the profiled beams are removed one by one from the top of a packet with the longitudinal items, and the weight of the single parts handled never becomes greater than the weight of one profiled beam with joining arrangement. |
| US08807608B2 |
Lifting truck with locking device for a battery block
A lifting truck, in the frame of which a battery mount is arranged, wherein a locking device is provided, which locks in a releasable manner the battery block in the installed state with respect to the frame or a battery mount, wherein the locking device has a first lever and a second lever. The second lever works with at least one buffer on an inside wall of the battery block to clamp it against a stop. |
| US08807603B2 |
Lid lock apparatus
A lid lock apparatus includes a housing formed by assembling a first body member and a second body member, a driving motor housed in the housing, an output gear, a movable member, a stopper member retained at one of the first body member and the output gear, a stopper wall formed at the other one of the first body member and the output gear and restricting the pivotal movement of the output gear by contacting the stopper member, and a stopper disengagement preventing portion formed on the other one of the first body member and the output gear, on which the stopper wall is formed, the stopper disengagement preventing portion restricting a disengagement of the stopper member in an axial direction of a rotational axis of the output gear by contacting the stopper member in the axial direction of the rotational axis of the output gear. |
| US08807597B2 |
Frontal collision energy absorption structure for vehicle
In a frontal collision energy absorption structure for a vehicle (1) including a chassis frame (9), an engine mount bracket (27) is attached to a main frame (10) of the chassis frame (9) extending in a vehicle length direction, and is, in the vehicle length direction, apart from a connection part of the main frame (10) and a suspension tower (101), a connection part of the main frame (10) and a second cross-member (12) arranged apart from the suspension tower (101) in front thereof, and a connection part of the main frame (10) and a third cross-member (13) arranged apart from the suspension tower (101) in rear thereof. |
| US08807595B2 |
Curtain airbag
A curtain airbag for mitigating vehicle occupant ejection. The curtain airbag is stored in the upper portion of a side face section in the interior of a vehicle and is inflated and deployed along the side face section. The curtain airbag includes a front chamber partitioned at the frontmost side of an inflation region. The front chamber is inflated and deployed overlapping a divider-bar that separates a side window from a front pillar window. |
| US08807593B2 |
Roof airbag device for vehicle
A roof airbag device includes an outer cushion and an inner cushion. The outer cushion includes a left wing part and a right wing part, which are oppositely disposed about the passenger's head, an upper cushion part connecting the left and right wing parts, and an outlet hole through which an inflation gas from an inflator is transferred. The inner cushion is disposed between the left and right wing parts, and has an inlet hole through which the inflation gas is supplied, and a discharge hole through which the inflation gas is discharged. |
| US08807589B2 |
Case member of airbag device
A base plate portion 21 directly receiving face pressure of the airbag is provided with a steel plate 31 made of a metal, and a stack portion 33 having a resin layers 32 made of synthetic resin and overlapping both faces of the steel plate 31. It possible to uniformly generate stress on both faces of the steel plate 31 in contraction at the time of molding while ensuring sufficient strength against the expansion pressure of the airbag, so that it is possible to suppress deformation in a cooling process after the molding and dimensional stability is high. The peripheral wall portion 22 is able to ensure sufficient strength even when it is integrally formed with each resin layer 32 of the base plate portion 21 in the form of a single layer. |
| US08807587B2 |
Stroller
A stroller includes: a frame part; a handle connected to the frame part so as to be swingable; caster mechanisms turnably holding wheels; and a switching mechanism including a switching member which is configured to be held on predetermined positions in accordance with the position of the handle. The caster mechanisms are provided with locking members configured to regulate turning of the wheels. In addition, there are provided transmission mechanism configured to operate the locking members in conjunction with a movement of the switching member. |
| US08807584B2 |
Stabilizing device and method for handcycle
A stabilizing device for a handcycle has an axle including an inner shaft and an outer shaft. A first stabilizing component is coupled to the inner shaft. A second stabilizing component is coupled to the outer shaft in proximity to the first stabilizing component. A locking component is configured to engage the first and second stabilizing components to reversibly reduce rotation of the inner shaft with respect to the outer shaft. Alternatively, a stabilizing device for a handcycle has a frame including first and second stabilizing members affixed to the frame. A locking member is configured to engage the first and second stabilizing members to stabilize the frame. The stabilizing components or members include receptacles, teeth, or a friction component. The locking component or member includes a pin or knob configured to adjust the first or second stabilizing member into a locked position. |
| US08807583B2 |
Method for controlling pressure equalization in vehicle running gear
A method for controlling pressure equalization in running gear for a utility vehicle and having a drive axle and at least one trailing axle without drive function. The includes assigning each axle to a pressure chamber on the left-hand and right-hand sides of the vehicle. The pressure ratio of the pressure chambers between the drive axle and the trailing axle is set independently for the two sides of the vehicle as a function of detected signals. |
| US08807582B1 |
Reinforced skateboard deck
A reinforced skateboard deck providing a rupture resistant region and a protective region to inhibit degradation of the rupture resistant region during use is disclosed herein. |
| US08807575B2 |
Mass transit vehicle
A mass transit vehicle includes one or a combination of the following: floor portions that are angled for creating an incline of a floor of the buss; a door or entranceway that is angle relative to a fore-aft axis of the vehicle; and/or an entranceway that opens a relatively low height relative to the ground. |
| US08807573B2 |
Metal gasket
An annular metal gasket for sealing a space between members by being pressed in the vertical direction in a state of being mounted between the members, the metal gasket comprising an annular outer ring having a substantially C-shaped cross-section and having a circumferential-direction opening formed therein, and an annular inner ring fitted inside the outer ring. The inner ring is formed so as to have a polygonal cross-section. Bend parts having an Inner angle larger than 180° are formed between the upper corner part and the inner- and outer-circumference-side corner parts; and between the lower corner part and the inner- and outer-circumference-side corner parts. |
| US08807571B2 |
Wear-compensating sealing ring assembly
A seal assembly for a reciprocating piston system is provided that compensates for uneven wear rates between the ring components of the seal assembly by initially sizing a portion of the width of the sealing ring larger than the width of the annular recess in the cover ring, this portion at least partially overlapping the gap in the cover ring but not the gap in the sealing ring. |
| US08807567B2 |
Card game
A card game includes a deck of cards used, for example, to play craps, poker, or any combination thereof. |
| US08807565B2 |
Wheel game with holes
Outdoor and indoor rolling games, game box stations ramps and methods of play where one or more participants physically rolls wheels towards a ramp which leads to a box, and a target area, such as circular hole or rectangular hole where player(s) accumulate points under selected playing rules. A station box can have a fold down ramp with an optional opening in the back of the box. Another station can have wheels and cooler in a hand truck arrangement. Another version can use a foldable ramp with removable inserts that allows the game to also be used with bean bags. |
| US08807555B2 |
Automatic document feeder
An automatic document feeder includes an upper cover, a pick-up arm, a restriction element, and a document stopper. The pick-up arm is movable between a first position and a second position. A rotating shaft of the restriction element is pivotally coupled to the pick-up arm. A rotating shaft of the document stopper is pivotally coupled to the upper cover. Moreover, the rotating shaft of the restriction element and the rotating shaft of the document stopper are not in parallel with each other. When the pick-up arm is located at the first position, a swinging action of the document stopper is limited by the restriction element. When the pick-up arm is located at the second position, the swinging action of the document stopper is no longer limited by the restriction element, so that the document stopper can be freely swung. |
| US08807552B2 |
Image forming apparatus, optional sheet feeder, and base plate member
A base plate is selectively attached to a lower surface of a main body of an image forming apparatus or to an optional sheet feeder attachable to the main body. |
| US08807549B2 |
Clamp for joining work pieces
A clamp for maintaining tight physical contact between two workpieces is disclosed. Using a pocket hole in one workpiece, the clamp includes a rod or pin which engages that workpiece. The second workpiece is either maintained in position by a resilient bumper which is clamped thereon, or by a threaded screw bolt which engages the other workpiece and drives the two together between the screw bolt and pin. |
| US08807548B2 |
Automatic truss jig setting system
A automatic truss jig setting system is disclosed that includes a table including a plurality of segments with a side edge of adjacent segments defining a slot. At least one pin assembly, and optionally a pair of pin assemblies, is movable independently of each other along the slot. Movement apparatus is provided for independently moving the pin assemblies along the slot. Each of the side edges of the segments associated with the slot defines a substantially vertical plane with a zone being defined between the substantially vertical planes of the side edges, and the movement apparatus is located substantially outside of the zone of the slot. The invention may optionally include a system for handling the obstruction of pin assembly movement, and a system for keeping track of the position of the pin assembly when the pin assembly has encountered an obstruction. |
| US08807546B2 |
Fluid filled vibration damping device
A fluid filled vibration damping device including: a first mounting member; a second mounting member having a cylindrical portion; and a main rubber elastic body elastically connecting the first and second mounting members. The first mounting member is fixed to one end of the main rubber elastic body, and an insertion metal fitting in a cylindrical shape is fixed onto an outer peripheral face of another end thereof, and the cylindrical portion of the second mounting member is bonded by pressure to the insertion metal fitting with a sealing rubber in between in a fluid-tight manner. The insertion metal fitting is provided with an inward protrusion where part of a wall portion protrudes inward. A sealing rubber storage space is formed between the inward protrusion and the cylindrical portion of the second mounting member. |
| US08807545B2 |
Liquid-sealed antivibration device
A partition element partitions a liquid-sealed chamber into a main liquid chamber and a first sub liquid chamber. A first orifice flow passage for connecting both liquid chambers is provided. A second diaphragm is formed in the partition element. The partition element includes a second sub liquid chamber partitioned from the main liquid chamber by the second diaphragm and a second orifice flow passage for connecting the first and second sub liquid chambers to each other. A valve portion brought into contact with a periphery around an opening of the second orifice flow passage is formed on a flexible membrane portion of the second diaphragm into a surrounding wall shape. A through hole is formed outside the valve portion, and a projection compressed by a counter wall is formed on a membrane surface of the flexible membrane portion on a main liquid chamber side. |
| US08807543B2 |
Elastomeric plain bearing having switchable rigidity
A bearing body (2) is divided in the radial direction (r) by at least one insert (6) arranged in the bearing body (2) parallel to the bearing axis (12) into at least two spring packets (7, 8) having an outer switching packet (8). Each of the working chambers (4, 4′) is divided into several chamber sections (91-9n) extending in the radial direction (r) and into at least one chamber section (10) extending in the axial direction (a) and connecting the chamber sections (91-9n) with one another. The elastomeric bearing body (2) is segmented in the switching packet (8) in the axial direction (a) by the chamber sections (91-9n) protruding into the elastomeric bearing body (2). |
| US08807541B2 |
Mass transfer column and a crown element for a mass transfer column
The crown element for securing a packing in a mass transfer column comprises an elongate sheet which comprises a roof element, a wall element and a bottom element. A first bending line is formed between the roof element and the wall element and a second bending line is formed between the wall element and the bottom element. Incisions are formed in the roof element and grooves are formed in the bottom element. The number of incisions is smaller than the number of grooves. |
| US08807539B2 |
Waterfall decorative humidifier
A waterfall decorative humidifier, including mainly a housing, a water exit on top of the housing, a water sub-receptacle in the lower portion of the housing, a water pump in the water sub-receptacle, and a fan in the housing; in which the water pump is connected with the water exit through a water pipe, and in which the housing is generally of the shape of a waterfall; wherein at least one shaft is provided on the housing, and a decoration is connected to the shaft directly or through a mechanism. |
| US08807534B2 |
Telescopic lifting device with safety strap
A lifting device with a telescopic pole having at least three successive modules mounted so that the modules can slide vertically with respect to each other. A drive strap transfers movement in order to extend an upper module with respect to an intermediate module when the intermediate module is caused to move with respect to a lower module of the modules. The drive strap is kept taut between two fixation points placed respectively on the lower module and upper modules and pass along a return pulley device mounted on the intermediate module. A safety system is normally maintained in inactive position by tension of the drive strap is automatically released into active locking position to prevent the upper module from continuing to move with respect to the intermediate module if the drive strap breaks. |
| US08807533B2 |
Tool and method for installing cable into molding
A tool and a method for installing one or more cables into a molding is disclosed. The tool includes a laying chute on a first end of the tool having an open passage along its length for inserting one or more cables into the laying chute. The tool also includes one or more closing devices that are rotatably attached to the laying chute to allow insertion of the one or more cables into the laying chute. The cable is inserted into the laying chute and secured using the closing devices. Thereafter, the tool is moved along the length of the molding for inserting the cable therein. |
| US08807532B2 |
Lifting bracket assembly including jack screw connector
A lifting bracket assembly is disclosed. The lifting bracket assembly includes a motor, a pair of gear heads mechanically coupled to the motor such that each of the gear heads is coupled to a jack screw connector, a first and second jack screw, wherein each of the jack screws is coupled to one of the jack screw connectors and one of the gear heads, a first lifting bracket rotatably coupled to the first jack screw, a second lifting bracket rotatably coupled to the second jack screw, wherein the first and second jacks screws are different, a first guide tube fixedly coupled at a first end to the first lifting bracket and coupled to a first rail beam at a second end, and a second guide tube fixedly coupled at a first end to the second lifting bracket and coupled to a second rail beam at a second end. |
| US08807529B2 |
Handle extension for butterfly valve
A butterfly valve for use with a tank trailer includes housing, a lateral extension, a shaft provided through the extension, the back end of the shaft having a seat for accommodating a handle thereon, and further extensions may connect with the first mentioned extension. The handle turns the butterfly valve between opened and closed positions. |
| US08807526B2 |
Butterfly valve having moving disc
Disclosed is a butterfly valve capable of controlling fluid flow according to rotation of a disc. The butterfly valve includes a valve body having an inner space of which two end portions are open; first and second discs disposed to face each other at the inner space, installed to be rotatable between an open state and a closed state of the inner space, and configured to selectively open and close the inner space; first and second sealing members mounted to the valve body, and configured to contact the first and second discs, respectively in the closed state; and a disc controlling apparatus configured to move the first and second discs to a direction contacting to or spacing from the first and second sealing members in the closed state. Under this configuration, durability and a sealing function may be enhanced. |
| US08807525B2 |
Quick-release coupling
A quick-release coupling includes a socket defining a first passage in a connection port thereof, a locking member mounted in a front end of the socket and adapted for locking an inserted external male mating connector, an air valve control device mounted in a rear end of the socket, and a leak-proof device having a stopper mounted in the front end of the socket and defining therein a second passage, which is kept in communication with the first passage upon insertion of an external mating male connector into the front end of the socket to move the stopper backward, or blocked from the first passage after removable of the inserted external mating male connector and a forward movement of the stopper by the air valve control device. |
| US08807522B2 |
Positioner
A variable impedance circuit is provided as an active load between an input line L1 and an output line L2. This circuit has low impedance with respect to a DC electric current signal and has high impedance with respect to an AC electric current signal, structured from a series circuit of resistors R1, R2, and R3 connected between lines L1 and L2; a transistor Q1 having the collector connected to the line L1 and the base connected between the resistors R2 and R3; a resistor R4 connected between the emitter of the transistor Q1 and the line L2; a capacitor C1 with one end connected between the resistors R2 and R3; a resistor R5 connected between the other end of the capacitor C1 and the line L2; a capacitor C2 having one end connected between the resistors R1 and R2; and a resistor R6 connected between the other end of the capacitor C2 and the line L2. |
| US08807516B2 |
Blowout preventer with rope packing seal
A blowout preventer (BOP) is provided in which each ram includes a primary rope packing seal formed from a first length of rope packing extending horizontally across the front face, rearwardly and then either or both of upwardly and downwardly over the top and/or bottom portion of the ram. The primary rope packing seal is held in, so as to protrude radially outwardly from, a continuous first groove formed in the ram. The continuous first groove is adapted to accommodate joined abutting ends or overlapping ends of the first length of rope packing. A secondary rope packing seal and a circumferential rope packing seal may be provided on the ram. |
| US08807515B2 |
Instrumented platform for vibration sensitive equipment
A platform that includes a vibration sensor located within an inner core of a table. The table may have a first plate that supports a vibration-sensitive payload. The first plate may be separated from a second plate by the inner core. The sensor can be located within the core directly below the device. The sensor can be connected to an electrical connector attached to an external surface of the table. A monitor can be readily plugged into the electrical connector to obtain vibration data from the sensor. The platform may also include a damper located within the inner core to reduce vibration of the table. The damper may be an active device that is connected to control circuits located within, or outside, the inner core. |
| US08807513B2 |
Unique multi-adjustable rotating-and-locking umbrella-stanchion system
A multi-adjustable, rotating, and opposite-double-locking umbrella-stanchion system is operated with one finger for oppositely double-locking and -unlocking the umbrella-supporting post of a crank-arm-operated umbrella to secure it in different positions. The system comprises a canopy system, a supporting post, a stanchion base, a U-shaped rotational lever, an actuator arm, a push rod, two opposite L-shaped locking arms, two opposite locking cleats, radial teeth, and two opposite tension springs for pushing the opposite locking cleats downward to oppositely double-lock the post and the canopy system, in place. The radial teeth are molded to the stanchion base. To operate the system, lift the U-shaped rotational lever with one finger to lift the opposite locking cleats to oppositely double-unlock them. Next, rotate the supporting post to a desired position. Then, release the U-shaped rotational lever to oppositely double-lock the opposite locking cleats between the radial teeth. |
| US08807510B2 |
Mirror device for a vehicle
Accuracy of positioning of a turning body to a mounting member when the mounting member and a support member are separate components is improved. In a vehicle door mirror device, a stand of a housing device is mounted to a base by being fastened with mounting screws. Axial directions of the mounting screws are angled with respect to an axial direction of the stand. An inner periphery abutting face and a vertical abutting face of the stand are abutted against an outer periphery abutting face and a perpendicular abutting face of the base in directions perpendicular to the axis of the stand. Thus, the stand is positioned to the base in whole directions perpendicular to the axis of the stand. Therefore, positioning accuracy of the housing device and a main body portion to the base in whole directions perpendicular to the axis of the stand can be improved. |
| US08807508B2 |
Seat raiser for spacing a seat rail from the vehicle floor
A seat raiser for spacing a seat rail of a motor vehicle seat from a vehicle floor is provided. The seat raiser comprising a welding portion which includes at least one specified welding point and is formed and provided to weld the seat rail to the seat raiser at the welding point and a fastening portion which includes at least one specified fastening point and is formed and provided to fasten the seat raiser to the vehicle floor at the fastening point. The seat raiser is formed substantially L-shaped in cross-section and the welding portion and the fastening portion each form a leg of the L-shape. The welding portion includes exactly two specified welding points spaced from each other, via which the seat raiser is to be welded to the seat rail. |
| US08807507B2 |
Lifting mechanism of vehicle seat
A lifting mechanism of a vehicle seat for adjusting a seating height position of the vehicle seat is provided. The lifting mechanism includes a lifter link having one side that is rotatably shaft-supported to a floor-side member provided on a vehicle floor and the other side that rotatably shaft-supports a frame member of a seating-side configuring part for seating; and a stopper link having one side that is rotatably shaft-supported to the floor-side member and the other side that is loosely fitted in a long hole formed in the lifter link. A rotation of the lifter link in a rear direction is restrained by a loosely fitted portion of the stopper link contacting an inner circumferential part of the long hole. A rotation of the lifter link in a front direction is restrained by a restraining contract part provided to the lifter link contacting a stopper part provided to the floor-side member. The restraining contact part is provided at a further outer side in a rotationally radial direction than a position of a front-side end portion of the long hole, with respect to a rotatable shaft support point of the one side of the lifter link. |
| US08807506B2 |
Ratchet stand device
A ratchet stand device includes a base joined to a top member such that congruently aligned openings, allow a post having a plurality of locking teeth on one side wall to be snugly inserted through the aligned openings. A ratchet part is pivotally disposed in a side aperture of the top member. The ratchet member may be released, whereupon, a spring urges the ratchet part back to forcibly engage one of the teeth of the post member. The first position of the ratchet member is safely maintained via a locking rod. The selected position for the post member is maintained irrespective of the weight of an object disposed upon a saddle of the post, until the object is removed and the locking rod is removed. |
| US08807503B2 |
Tablecloth retainer
A tablecloth retainer includes an elastic band having at least a primary thickness, a width, and a predesigned boundary, wherein the elastic band is stretched around the perimeter edge of a table top to retain a tablecloth, the predesigned boundary being smaller than a range of table top perimeters accommodating the band by virtue of elasticity of the band. |
| US08807501B2 |
Wall-mountable holder
A wall mountable holder may include a base portion, a first arm, and a second arm extending outward from the base, where each of the arms may extend to a distal end spaced away from the base. Additionally, the holder may include at least one groove extending downwardly from an upper edge of at least one of the arms. The holder also may include a tab extending inward at a distal end of at least one of the arms, the tab including a leading surface angled inward and rearward from proximate the distal end, and a trailing surface angled outward and rearward from the leading surface. An opening may be formed between the arms, proximate the distal ends, such that the opening may be narrower than a spacing between the arms at each point between the base and the opening. |
| US08807500B2 |
Fixing apparatus for hard disk drive
A fixing apparatus for fixing a hard disk drive includes a bracket receiving the hard disk drive with a locating pin extending from each of opposite sidewalls, and a rotating member. The bracket includes two opposite supporting walls and an end wall. Each supporting wall defines a latching slot. The locating pins are slidably inserted into the corresponding latching slots. The rotating member includes a fixing pole slidably abutting against the hard disk drive toward the end wall, two rotating poles respectively extending from two opposite ends of the fixing pole and rotatably connected to the corresponding supporting walls, and a latching pole extending from a distal end of one of the rotating poles to be detachably latched to one of the supporting walls. |
| US08807498B1 |
Sawhorse bracket
A sawhorse bracket permits assembly of a heavy duty sawhorse from support lumber pieces that may be easily disassembled for transport and storage. The sawhorse bracket includes a cross beam bracket and two attached and opposing support leg brackets—all of channel-shaped body construction. Both the cross beam bracket and the pair of support leg brackets have retention members that may be utilized to selectively retain support lumber within the respective brackets. A web brace extends between the opposed leg brackets to provide additional lateral support and resist the spreading of the support legs when a load is being carried by the assembled sawhorse. |
| US08807496B2 |
Camera mount
A mount having a plate with a tail portion and a base with a socket portion. The socket includes a dropping gate which recedes into a compartment in the base when the plate is vertically inserted on the base. The base includes a stop which engages a catch on the plate to prevent the plate from being laterally removed from the base. |
| US08807491B2 |
Piping system
The invention consists in a system for placement of conduits to a property site comprising a conduit receiving channel member which is shaped to receive a selected plurality of conduits. The channel member has one or more access points adapted to enable access to a portion of the channel member. The arrangement enables easy detection of service pipes to and from a property site. Preferably the/or each access point is in the form of a box. The invention further includes within its scope a structure fitted with or otherwise connected to such a system. |
| US08807490B2 |
Cable protection and guide apparatus
There is provided a cable protection and guide apparatus that improves efficiency of cable insertion and maintenance when a connecting arm attached to a link plate by a hinge structure is disconnected. In order to removably connect the connecting arm to the link plate, the guide apparatus has the hinge structure composed of a hinge stem and a hook that is rotatably engaged with the hinge stem. The hinge structure has a disengagement preventing portion that prevents the hook from disengaging from the hinge stem and a rotation restricting portion that restricts the rotation of the connecting arm in the disconnected condition. The rotation restricting portion is composed of a link-side engagement element and an arm-side engagement element. In the rotation restricting condition effected by engagement of the link-side and arm-side engagement elements, a rotational angle of the connecting arm is an obtuse angle. |
| US08807487B2 |
Control system for simplifying control of a model railroad
A control system for at least a pair of motor powered rail vehicles coupled together in a model train railroad includes a controller, a control module installed on each of the at least pair of motor powered rail vehicles, a bi-directional communication between the controller and at least one control module in one of the at least pair of motor powered rail vehicles, a bi-directional communication between the at least pair of control modules, and at least one of the controller and the one of the pair of control modules configured to store in memory full load electrical power value and use the full load electrical power value in adjusting motor load for a respective motor powered rail vehicle. The control system also uses a subsonic motor signal to enhance low speed operation of rail vehicles and a graphical interface within the controller and capability to utilize previously unknown devices. |
| US08807486B2 |
Communication network for a railborne vehicle
A track-bound vehicle, in particular a railborne vehicle, has a plurality of rail cars and a communication network for transmitting data signals. The communication network has two lines which run through the rail cars of the vehicle. The vehicle is designed in such a way that in each case one of the lines runs in the cars in a first region, and the other of the lines runs in a second region which is spatially separate from the latter, in at least one of the cars the course of the respective one line changes from the first region into the second region, and the course of the respective other line changes from the second region into the first region. Network components for refreshing the data signals that are transmitted in the lines are provided in the first region. |
| US08807478B2 |
Amphibious aircraft
Described are aircraft with at least one fuselage, a wing, and at least one float coupled to the wing. As examples, each float may include a step that is located forward of or at an intersection of a bottom surface and a line that extends from an aircraft aft-most center of gravity at an angle of less than ten degrees rearward from a vertical direction. As further examples, each float may include a forward portion located forward of the step, the forward portion including a ski surface that is planar in a left to right horizontal direction, and an aft portion that is located rearward of the step. |
| US08807470B2 |
Bushing and spacer system for hammer mills
A bushing and spacer system for use with hammer mills is configured to be mounted on a hammer mill rod to receive and support a plurality of hammers such that the surface of the rod is shielded from contact with the hammers, and such that the hammers are positioned in spaced relationship one with another. The bushing and spacer system includes at least a first bushing and a second bushing mounted on the hammer rod. The second bushing includes a spacer portion and a neck portion, the spacer portion presenting a larger cross section than the neck portion. The second bushing is mounted on the rod such that the neck portion of the second bushing is adjacent the first bushing. A hammer is rotatably mounted on the neck portion of the second bushing. |
| US08807466B2 |
Method and system for reclamation of battery constituents
In a method of reclaiming constituent components of sealed batteries, the batteries are initially ground to form a ground feedstock. The ground feedstock is heated to form a dried feedstock. The dried feedstock is screen separated into a coarse fraction and a powder fraction, the coarse fraction including a magnetic fraction and a non-magnetic fraction. The coarse fraction and the powder fraction are further vibratorily segregated. The magnetic fraction may be magnetically extracted from the coarse fraction, while the powder fraction is outputted. |
| US08807459B2 |
Airless paint spray gun
An indexing mechanism is provided for use with a prior art airless paint spray gun. The indexing means of this invention enables the tip guard of the spray gun to be rotated in 90° increments with respect to the frame of the spray gun without loosening the retaining nut of the tip guard. |
| US08807456B2 |
Device for dispensing an aerated jet of water
A device for dispensing an aerated jet of water comprises an outer casing (10), a dispenser plate (14) which closes said outer casing and in which a plurality of nozzles (16) for the outlet of the water is provided, and an intermediate plate (18) positioned in said casing so as to define a water inlet chamber (20) communicating with a water supply duct (21), and a water outlet chamber (24) communicating with the outlet nozzles (16) of the water. In the intermediate plate (18) there is provided an air-water mixing chamber (26) communicating with the water inlet chamber through a plurality of water inlet holes (28), with the outside environment through a number of air intake holes (30) and with the water outlet chamber through a plurality of aerated water (32) outlet holes. |
| US08807455B2 |
Sprayer
A spray device for dispensing chemicals is disclosed. The spray device comprises a cartridge defining an interior compartment for containing a liquid product, an applicator having a support body, an extendable wand attached to the support body, a handle at a rear end of the support body, and a pump. |
| US08807447B2 |
Combined heating/hot water system for a vehicle
Combined heating/hot water system (10) for a vehicle (12), comprising an air heating device (14), at least one air duct (20, 22, 24), by means of which the air heating device (14) is connected by air to an interior (30) of the vehicle (12) for heating, a fan (18), by means of which air heated in the air heating device (14) may be introduced into the interior (30) of the vehicle (12) for heating, a hot water reservoir (16) arranged in a recess (15) in the air heating device (14), a first pipe duct (36), by means of which the hot water reservoir (16) may be hydraulically connected to a tap (34) in the vehicle (12) and a second pipe duct (38), by means of which the hot water reservoir (16) is hydraulically coupled to a water tank (32), wherein at least one of the pipe ducts (36, 38) is arranged in one of the air ducts (20, 22, 24). |
| US08807442B2 |
System and method for embedding machine-readable codes in a document background
A method and apparatus are disclosed for embedding a two-dimensional machine-readable code into the background of a document in an aesthetically pleasing manner. The objects (picture, graphics, text, etc.) in a document image are first segmented from the background. A location for embedding the barcode is determined. A texture image is created by replicating the barcode to a size that covers the entire image. A modulation index map is generated from the segmentation results. The original image is modulated to produce the output image based on the texture image and the modulation index map. |
| US08807440B1 |
Routing secure element payment requests to an alternate application
Certain legacy contactless card readers recognize only applets having a short-form AID. However, the long-form AID applets can allow more functionality and specifically can allow use of multiple software applications within a mobile device. A legacy card reader requests invocation of a software applet based on the short-form AID known to the legacy card reader. A router applet operating on the mobile device receives the request for the short-form AID applet, determines the long-form AID applet corresponding to the short-form AID applet, and routes the request to the long-form AID applet, thereby invoking the long-form AID applet. In this manner, legacy readers that have stored therein only the short-form AID applet can invoke the functionality of the long-form AID applet on the smart card. Additionally, newer readers implementing the long-form AID applet can request directly the long-form AID applet. |
| US08807439B2 |
Printer with integrated RFID data collector
A RFID printer for printing and determining the quality of RFID record members having transponders is provided. The RFID printer may be used to print RFID record members utilizing a continuous moving web. In particular, a RFID printer includes an integrated RFID data collector such that identifying RFID transponder information may be recorded and associated with a barcode for inventory tracking purposes. An association file created by the RFID printer may be transferred to a manufacturer or retailer brand owner. The association file may be deleted from the RFID printer upon acknowledgment of receipt of the transmitted association file to the manufacturer or retail brand owner. The RFID printer provides methods for determining quality of RFID printed record members. |
| US08807437B2 |
Payment card system and method
Embodiments of the invention relate to payment cards and methods for making payment cards. In one embodiment, a card comprises a first layer and a second layer adjacent to the first layer. The second layer comprises a plurality of particles comprising metal, and the plurality of particles comprise at least about 15 volume % of the second layer. In another embodiment, a mixture is prepared comprising polymer and a plurality of particles comprising metal. The plurality of particles comprise at least about 15 volume % of the mixture. The mixture is pressed and an outer layer is applied. The mixture and outer layer are then cut to form the card. |
| US08807428B2 |
Navigation of mobile devices
A method is provided for navigation of a mobile device. Spatial information of at least one beacon detected in an image relative to the image is determined. The image includes an image of the at least one beacon within at least part of an environment surrounding the mobile device. A position of the mobile device based on said spatial information is determined using encoded visual information of the at least one beacon. |
| US08807425B2 |
System, process and computer writeable medium incorporating any of standard or adhesive attachable tags incorporating a unique identifiable number or alternately a digitally downloadable tag and application having GPS locating abilities and which are combined with a website or mobile application for registering and assisting in retrieval of tagged valuables or assets
A portable asset tagging system, process and computer writeable medium including at least one tag exhibiting a QR code along with a separate unique identification number printed thereon, the tag also identifying a site address accessibly by a member user and associated with the system. A software program is incorporated into a processor integrated device used to access the site address and exhibiting a visual display and includes user enterable fields for creating a member profile and for identifying and pairing the asset to the tag in order to establish ownership with information derived from the member profile. Upon the item being lost and subsequently found, the finder entering the unique identification number or scanning the QR code in order to uncover at least one additional data field which draws information from the member entered fields in order to facilitate return of the lost item. |
| US08807423B2 |
Automatic teller machine
An automatic teller machine (ATM) may temporarily stack paper mediums in a carriage, adjust an advancing direction of the carriage by rotating the carriage by a rotor, and dispense the paper mediums to one of a plurality of dispenser portions by the carriage moving along movement paths. In addition, since a discharge path for paper medium being discharged from a rejected medium transfer portion to a collected medium storage portion and a discharge path for paper medium being discharged from the carriage to the collected medium storage portion are formed in a common discharge space, paper mediums detected to be abnormal and rejected and paper mediums not received by the dispenser portions but retracted may be stored in one place. Consequently, the structure may be simplified. |
| US08807422B2 |
Tamper-proof quality management barcode indicators
A tamper-proof barcoded quality indicator operative to provide a machine-readable indication of exceedance of time and temperature thresholds following actuation thereof, including a first barcode including a first colorable area and being machine-readable before exceedance of the time and temperature thresholds, a second barcode including a second colorable area and not being machine-readable before exceedance of the time and temperature thresholds, a coloring agent located at a first location on the indicator, a coloring agent pathway operative to allow the coloring agent to move, at a rate which is at least partially a function of time, from the first location to the first and second colorable areas simultaneously for simultaneous coloring thereof upon exceedance of the time and temperature thresholds, thereby causing the first barcode to become unreadable and at the same time causing the second barcode to become machine-readable, and a tamper-proof actuator element operative to actuate the indicator. |
| US08807421B2 |
Composite code with dynamic linking to internet addresses
A composite code is created from an image and a tag that is searchable by an Internet search engine. The composite code is dynamically linked to one or more of a plurality of Internet addresses. When data about a composite code is received from a user computing device, one of the linked Internet addresses is selected based on a predetermined rule and sent back to the user computing device. |
| US08807420B2 |
Flow cytometer and biochip detecting method
A biochip detecting device for detecting a biochip which has identifying information is provided. The biochip detecting device has a controller, a reader, a storage medium and a detecting module. The reader reading the identifying information, the storage medium saving a detecting information, and the detecting module detecting the biochip are electrically connected to the controller. The controller is suitable for determining the record of the identifying information in the detecting information and modifying the setting of the detecting module automatically according to the identifying information. A biochip detecting method is further provided. A biochip detecting device is used to read identifying information of the biochip to determine whether the biochip could be detected. Besides, the setting of a detecting module is automatically adjusted by a controller. The time for adjusting the setting of the detecting module is saved and the possibility of setup mistake could be reduced. |
| US08807419B2 |
Method and system for creating and delivering group messages
A method and system for managing the creation and delivery of an electronic group message is disclosed. The electronic group message can be provided to two or more (i.e., a group) of signers to sign the electronic group message. Once signed, the electronic group message can be provided to one or more recipients. Alternatively, the electronic group message can be provided from a signer to a plurality of recipients, where different recipients receive different messages. One type of electronic group message is an electronic card known as a care card. |
| US08807418B2 |
Container
A container is disclosed. The container may include a fillable bladder in an interior of an enclosure of the container. The container may be used for packaging a pourable product into a fillable bladder while the fillable bladder is positioned inside the container. The container may include an enclosure having a blind depth recess bottom handle. The container may include an enclosure having a bottom flap having a flap perimeter which generally matches a lower perimeter of a plurality of sides of the enclosure. |
| US08807417B2 |
Articulable structure in the form of a fractal
The present invention relates to an articulable structure in fractal form, comprising at least one external compartment (CE) and at least a first internal compartment (Cu) that are linked together in an articulated manner via at least one of the edges thereof, the at least two compartments (CE and Cu) essentially having the same format in the erected and flat states and the first internal compartment has smaller dimensions than the external compartment, the first internal compartment, in the erected state, being accommodated inside the external compartment, and each compartment has a polygonal format, comprising at least four lateral faces (FL) and a bottom face (FF); each compartment of the articulable structure comprises at least five quadrangular faces corresponding to the four lateral faces (FL) and to the bottom face (FF), each edge of the bottom face (FF) being linked in an articulated manner to a lower edge of the same size of one of the lateral faces (FL), and at least four identical triangular faces (T) in the form of a right-angled isosceles triangle, each triangular face (T) connecting adjacent lateral faces, with each edge corresponding to a vertical height of the triangle, being linked in an articulated manner to a lateral edge of one of the adjacent lateral faces (FL) and the edge corresponding to the hypotenuse linking the vertices of the two adjacent lateral faces, wherein the length of the hypotenuse edge of the triangular faces (T) of the first internal compartment (Cu) is equal to or less than the length of the upper edge of the lateral faces (FL) of the external compartment (CE). This structure allows the use of countless compartments arranged one inside another in succession and that may be articulated together in different ways, achieving one and the same final format. |
| US08807416B2 |
Reflow soldering system
A reflow soldering system wherein a heating oven is provided with a contact heating unit which has a transport rail and a top heat transfer heater, and with a hot gas blowing heating unit, the transport rail and top heat transfer heater are respectively provided with heaters which heat the outer edge part of the printed circuit board, and the transport rail or top heat transfer heater moves in an up-down direction so that the transport rail and top heat transfer heater clamp and heat the outer edge part of the printed circuit board. |
| US08807413B2 |
Driving device
According to one aspect of the application, a device for driving a fastening element into a substrate has an energy-transfer element for transferring energy to the fastening element. The energy-transfer element can move preferably between a starting position and a setting position, wherein the energy-transfer element is located, before a driving-in procedure, in the starting position and, after the driving-in procedure, in the setting position.According to another aspect of the application, the device comprises a mechanical-energy storage device for storing mechanical energy. The energy-transfer element is then suitable preferably for transferring energy from the mechanical-energy storage device to the fastening element. |
| US08807412B2 |
Medical device accessory carrier
A carrier system for carrying medical device accessories includes a first battery pouch to enclose at least a portion of a first battery and a garment to be worn about a torso. The garment including a plurality of accessory connection features adapted to allow for adjustable attachment of at least the first battery pouch and for adjustable attachment of a medical device controller that is electrically connected to a medical device. |
| US08807411B2 |
Sternum clip for pack with straps
A backpack assembly includes a pack configured to be worn on a wearer's back. The backpack assembly also includes straps coupled to the pack and configured to extend over the wearer's chest. The straps include at least one first side strap and at least one second side strap. The backpack assembly also includes a strap retainer. The strap retainer includes a closed loop on a first side of the strap retainer and an open loop on a second side of the strap retainer. The at least one first side strap is slidably retained within the closed loop and the at least one second side strap is slidably retained within the open loop. The open loop also includes a side opening through which the at least one second side straps can be inserted and removed. |
| US08807408B2 |
Adaptive storage area
A storage area, particularly for vehicles, comprising a frame having opposite legs and a plurality of bars extending from one of the opposite legs of the frame to the other leg. The bars are each implemented as a detented system, so that they can be displaced independently of each other between a starting position and an ending position. |
| US08807405B2 |
Self adjusting contoured strap device and method
Novel devices and methods are provided to dispense the load of a bag or case across a user's shoulder when the user attached a strap to the bag or case. The devices and methods provide a segmented tensile assembly to disperse the load of a bag or case uniformly across the user's body. |
| US08807403B2 |
Strap lifter for use between two persons
A strap lifter for use with a harness is shown and described. The harness may have two shoulder straps that support a central, front buckle for use at about the lower, central belly of a user. A generally horizontal buckle strap has a fixed, rigid lower loop beneath a movable, flexible upper loop secured to the front of the buckle strap. The lower and upper loops are generally parallel, and close, to each other. Typically, the distance between the two loops is slightly more than the thickness of a lifter strap which is threaded between the two loops. Preferably, a set of two harnesses is used by two persons standing face-to-face with a single lifter strap between them threaded through both of the buckles. |
| US08807402B2 |
Disposable glove and apparatus for applying a glove to a user's hand
The present invention relates to a package of disposable gloves and to a method and an apparatus which can use the package to enable the gloves to be applied to a user's hands. The gloves are stored in a roll and are unrolled and opened by the apparatus so that a user can hygienically insert their hand into a glove without touching the glove. The user, with their hand in the glove can then sever the glove from the roll of gloves by moving their hand downwardly and away from the apparatus. The apparatus can then unroll and open another glove for the user to insert their other hand. |
| US08807399B2 |
Dispenser
The present invention relates to a dispenser having an actuation device (24) for dispensing components from an output device that is connected to reservoirs (26, 27), wherein the actuation device acts on the pumping devices (34, 35) indirectly via a dosing device, and the dosing device is equipped with a setting device (23) that can be actuated to change the position of a transmission element (40) acting on the pumping devices for setting the quantity ratio, wherein both the setting device and the actuation device can be rotated about a longitudinal axis of the dispenser. |
| US08807398B2 |
Dispenser and liquid container
A dispenser includes a replaceable liquid container. A nozzle cap is arranged to at least partly enclose a foam pump during storage, transport and use of the replaceable liquid container. The nozzle cap is integral with the replaceable liquid container and is displaceable in the first direction so as to activate the foam pump in said first direction. The first end surface of the nozzle cap includes a dispensing opening aligned with the foam pump through which a quantity of liquid in the form of a foam is discharged upon activation of the foam pump. |
| US08807396B2 |
Trigger diffuser
A trigger diffuser to be secured to the neck of a vial provided with an outlet valve (31) provides for securing it on the vial, actuating the valve (31), a trigger (200) movable between a neutral position, in which the valve is not actuated, and a diffusion position, in which an actuation element is moved in the direction of the valve so as to actuate it, and an outlet channel for the transport out of the diffuser of the product coming out of the valve. In order to store the diffuser without the risk of accidentally actuating the trigger even after the first withdrawal, the diffuser includes a blocking element (304) movable between a blocking position, in which the trigger (200) is prevented from reaching the diffusion position, and a release position, in which the trigger can be moved from the neutral position to the diffusion position. |
| US08807386B2 |
Accessory for drinking vessel
An accessory for a drinking vessel is disclosed as including a body (102) with a passageway allowing air or liquid to pass through, the body including a first wall (104a) and a second wall (104b) which are opposite to each other, and a valve (110) in the passageway, the valve (110) including a first valve member (110a) and a second valve member (110b), in which both the first and second valve members (110a, 110b) are integrally formed with the first and second walls, and each of the first and second valve members (110a, 110b) includes respectively a first surface (111a, 111c) and a second surface (111b, 111d) which are opposite to each other, in which the first surfaces of the first and second valve members face generally a first direction, and the second surfaces of the first and second valve members face generally a second direction which is opposite to the first direction, and the first valve member is deformable between a first configuration in which at least part of the second surface of the first valve member contacts and overlaps at least part of the first surface of the second valve member to prevent flow of air or liquid through the valve and a second configuration in which the first valve member is out of contact with the second valve d member to allow flow of air or liquid through the valve. |
| US08807382B1 |
Storage system having flexible vacuum jacket
A storage system useful for storing cryogenic liquids is disclosed. The storage system includes a storage vessel, insulation surrounding the storage vessel and a flexible vacuum jacket enclosing them both. The flexible vacuum jacket can be made from a flexible plastic film such as polyimide. Polyimide is preferred due to its ability to remain flexible at cryogenic temperatures. The inner volume of the flexible vacuum jacket is placed under vacuum such that the insulation is maintained under vacuum. The flexible vacuum jacket can collapse against and conform to the insulation when it is evacuated, saving substantially on volume. A fitting for combining multiple passageways is also disclosed, so that multiple passageways can proceed through the vacuum jacket through a single penetration. |
| US08807380B2 |
Waste receptacle system for securing a plurality of plastic liners
A waste receptacle system (10) for securing a plurality of plastic liners, which comprises a waste receptacle (5), two or more plastic liners (9) in a compressed state which are extended along all of soiling susceptible surfaces of the waste receptacle (5), and a base element (15) underlying, and coupled to, at least a portion of the waste receptacle (5), for supporting the waste receptacle (5) and for applying an adjustable pressing force to the two or more liners (9). An outwardly facing liner of the two or more liners (9) is removable from the system (10) when the pressing force is reduced and is secured and irremovable from the system (10) when the pressing force is increased. |
| US08807377B2 |
Pulp-formed wine bottle and containers for holding materials
The invention provides for a container that may include a liquid-holding vessel and a skeleton shell supporting the liquid holding vessel. The liquid-holding vessel may comprise a flexible polymer or plastic material for preventing contact between a liquid stored in or dispensed from the container and the skeleton. The liquid-holding vessel and the closure may be formed from a minimal amount of polymer or plastic. |
| US08807371B2 |
Drinking cup lid having recessed opening and sealing plug
A drinking cup lid for attachment to a disposable drinking cup, the lid having a surface with a drinking hole opening, a peripheral wall for engaging and removably sealing the lid to the drinking cup, and a plug disposed outside the peripheral wall connected to the peripheral wall by a pair of flexible support arms, the plug engaging the drinking hole opening in a friction fit relationship. |
| US08807370B2 |
Preservation container
Disclosed herein is a preservation container having a container body and a lid assembly. The lid assembly includes an upper cover, a knob provided on a top of the upper cover and rotated by a user, a vertical moving unit coupled to the upper cover and moved up and down by a rotation of the knob, an intermediate cover detachably coupled to a bottom of the upper cover and having in a central portion thereof a hole through which the vertical moving unit is exposed to an outside, a lower cover coupled to the vertical moving unit, and a packing fitted into a groove which is formed in a top of the lower cover and sliding along a bottom of the intermediate cover to be in close contact with an inner surface of the container body, when the vertical moving unit moves up. |
| US08807368B1 |
Serving vessel set
A series of vessels includes first, second, and third vessels. The first vessel includes a first bottom wall and a first coupling feature formed on a bottom surface of the first bottom wall. The second vessel includes a second bottom wall, a second coupling feature, and a third coupling feature. The second coupling feature is formed on a top surface of the second bottom wall and is configured to engage with the first coupling feature to form a first mated pair. The third coupling feature is formed on a bottom surface of the second bottom wall. The third vessel is sized larger than the second vessel and includes a third bottom wall, a fourth coupling feature, and a fifth coupling feature. The fourth coupling feature is formed on a top surface of the third bottom wall and is configured to engage with the third coupling feature of the second vessel to form a second mated pair. The fifth coupling feature is formed on the top surface of the third bottom wall and is configured to selectively engage with the first coupling feature of the first vessel to form a third mated pair. |
| US08807367B2 |
Foldable crate and locking mechanisms therefor
A foldable crate includes a base platform, a pair of longitudinal sidewalls forming a hinged connection with the base platform and a pair of flanking sidewalls forming a hinged connection with the base platform. The flanking sidewalls accommodate a locking mechanism, which includes an actuator, a transmission mechanism and a pair of locking elements, threaded into channels at the top portion of the flanking sidewalls. |
| US08807361B2 |
Safe sealing cap for container
The present invention directs a safe sealing cap for container, having a sealing cap body and at least a secure component, the secure component includes a curved part, a swinging support and a retaining plate, the swinging support is fixed on the outer wall of the sealing cap body, the back end of the curved part is fixed on the bottom side of the front end of the swinging support, the back end of the retaining plate is fixed on the inner wall of the back end of the curved part, and the front end of the retaining plate is extended towards the sealing cap body; the safe sealing cap further comprises at least two protection components, the protection components are connected to the sealing cap body respectively, and the protection components are successively arranged on the sealing cap body in the circumferential direction thereof. |
| US08807360B2 |
Tamper-evident bottle and closure having vents
A tamper-evident package with pressurized contents which includes a closure and associated container which cooperate to provide desired tamper-evidence upon initial removal of the closure from the container, while promoting convenient and comfortable removal and use by consumers. |
| US08807359B2 |
Tab release child safety feature
A child-resistant container including a container body (10), a lid (24), and at least one resilient tab (110) is provided. The lid is pivotable about an axis through a hinge (26) joining the lid to the container body to open and close the container. The resilient tab has a proximal portion fixed to the lid, a distal portion projecting from the lid, and at least one abutment (109) on the distal portion. The abutment on the distal portion of the tab is normally biased into engagement with an abutment (118) on the container body when the lid is in its closed position. The distal portion of the tab is displaceable against the bias to disengage the abutment of the tab from the abutment of the container. Displacement of the tab releases the lid so that it can be pivoted about the hinge to open the container. |
| US08807349B2 |
Device for generation of ion network for water treatment in tanks
The invention concerns a device for generation of ion network for water treatment in tanks, especially for reduction of cloud and for stabilization of water surfaces, where the device is arranged on a floating body equipped with a drive for initiation of mutual motion of the floating body and water, whereas the floating body is equipped with an ejector and at least one source of electrolytically and/or photocatalytically treated water connected with an outlet (9) that leads into ejection and/or ejected water of an ejector.Eventually, an inlet of chemical agents (11) and/or an inlet of biological agents (12), an inlet of oxidation agent (13) or an inlet of air (14) lead into ejection and/or ejected water of the ejector. |
| US08807347B2 |
Paper processing apparatus
A paper processing apparatus includes a setting section which sets a piece of paper, a feeding device which takes in the piece of paper set at this setting section, a transport device which transports the piece of paper took in by the feeding device, a judging section (detector) which discriminates whether or not the piece of paper transported by the transport device is a damaged note and discriminates types of damage and dirt of the piece of paper discriminated to be the damaged note, and a plurality of stacking boxes which carry out sorting and collection according to the types of damage and dirt discriminated by the judging section (detector). |
| US08807343B2 |
Screening method and apparatus
An apparatus (25) for use in screening a liquid and solids mixture feed (2) comprises a conduit (18), including a screening portion (22) that is formed and arranged to divide a liquid and solids mixture feed flowing through the conduit. The feed (2) is divided into a first, cleaned stream (C1) comprising liquid and solid particles of below a selected size limit, and a second, concentrated, stream (24) comprising liquid, and particles above the selected size limit. The apparatus (25) may be a stand alone module, part of a system with other solids and liquids separating equipment or an integral part of a solids and liquid separator such as a shale shaker. Methods of using the apparatus (25) are also described. |
| US08807342B2 |
Packaging box
A packaging box is disclosed, which is formed by coupling two packaging structures. The packaging structure includes a baseboard, which has a first side, a second side opposite to the first side, a third side for connecting the first and second sides, and a fourth side opposite to the third side for connecting the first and second sides. The packaging structure includes a first sidewall standing on the first side, and a second sidewall standing on the third sidewall. The packaging structure further includes plural first coupling elements and plural second coupling elements. The first coupling elements are disposed on the first and second sidewalls. The second coupling elements corresponding to the first coupling elements are disposed on the second and fourth sides of the baseboard. Two packaging structures are coupled by coupling the first coupling elements to the second coupling elements to obtain the packaging box. |
| US08807338B2 |
Mailing package for a light-weight product
A package for mailing of a light-weight product includes a compressible body and a sheet that is less compressible than the body. A front face of the body has a cutout shaped to receive the product. The sheet has a planar first panel and a planar second panel. An inside face of the first panel is secured to a back face of the compressible body. The second panel is foldably connected to a first edge of the first panel and movable between a folded configuration in which the second panel covers the front face of the compressible body and an unfolded configuration in which the front face of the compressible body is uncovered and an inside face of the second panel is exposed. The sheet does not cover the top face and the bottom face of the compressible body. |
| US08807332B1 |
Financial transaction card packaging having internal panel for tamper prevention
A financial transaction card is packaged by a carrier which contains the card and restricts motion of the card sufficiently to inhibit removal of the card by improper means (e.g., creating a slit in the exterior of the package and sliding the card out) prior to activation of the financial transaction account associated with the card at the point of sale. In a preferred embodiment, the package is a simple three-panel construction having an internal panel provided with slits that do not contact the card unless improper removal of the card is attempted. Such a feature provides substantial security for the packaged card, at minimal manufacturing cost. |
| US08807327B2 |
Transfer apparatus with dynamically variable drive zones
A transfer apparatus includes a primary part, and at least one first and one second secondary part, which are each magnetically coupled to the primary part for drive purposes. A regulation device is provided for regulation of a drive of the secondary parts. The regulation device can regulate the drive of the first secondary part in a first zone of the primary part in accordance with a first regulation rule, and can regulate the drive of the second secondary part in a second zone of the primary part in accordance with a second regulation rule. The first and second regulation rules differ hereby from one another. The first zone is separated from the second zone by a boundary which can be varied dynamically by the regulation device. |
| US08807325B2 |
Forming of metal container bodies
Apparatus and method for forming (e.g. die necking) open ends of open-ended metal container bodies. An exemplary embodiment provides a number of movable holders for container bodies that move the container bodies along a path extending through the apparatus. A motor advances the holders and container bodies along the path in steps with pauses between each step. Each step advances one or more container bodies (and preferably two or more). One or more groups of work stations positioned adjacent to the path provides tool sets for carrying out a forming operation on one (and preferably two or more) container bodies simultaneously. Individual container bodies, or more preferably groups of two or more, are subjected to one or more forming operations during passage along the path (preferably the periphery of one or more star wheels). |
| US08807322B2 |
Apparatus for transporting objects
An object transport apparatus comprises a transport conveyor. Objects are compelled to move through an object space adjacent to the transport conveyor. A plurality of flights is disposed along a variable path and constrained to move along that path. A variable portion of the path is disposed adjacent to the transport conveyor. The flights disposed along the adjacent portion occupy a portion of the object space of the transport conveyor. A first transfer element is disposed along the variable path. The motion of the first transfer element varies the length of the variable path adjacent to the transport conveyor. An object sensor is disposed to detect objects upstream of the transfer element in the object space of the transport element. A controller interacts with a transfer element drive to alter the position of the transfer element along the variable path according to the output of the sensor. |
| US08807316B2 |
Banknote processing system and method
Disclosed are a banknote processing system and method. The system comprises: a terminal (1), an identification unit (2), a physical banknote box (4), a banknote box information storage unit (5), and a main control unit (3). The identification unit (2) detects the banknotes getting in or out of the physical banknote box (4) to obtain inherent information of the banknotes; the main control unit (3) updates a virtual electronic banknote box according to the inherent information of the banknotes, and determine information of the banknotes in the physical banknote box (4) according to the information of the virtual electronic banknote box. The virtual electronic banknote box is a set of the inherent information of the banknotes, wherein the inherent information of the virtual electronic banknote box is one-to-one mapped to the banknotes in the physical banknote box (4), and the storage sequence of the inherent information is the same as the placement sequence of the banknotes in the physical banknote box (4). |
| US08807315B2 |
Discharge device
A discharge device, preferably for a silo, comprising: an outer body (2), provided with an upper opening (21) and a lower opening (22); an inner body (3) positioned inside the first body (2); a plurality of arms (4), interposed between the outer body (2) and inner body (3) so as to connect the inner body (3) to the outer body (2). Each arm (4) is provided with a foot (5) endowed with at least one vibration damping portion (51) which has a resting surface on the outer body (2). |
| US08807308B2 |
Power supply device, power acquisition device and safety system for electromagnetic induction-powered electric vehicle
It is provided a power supply device and a power acquisition device for an electromagnetic induction-powered electric vehicle that increase a power transfer efficiency by maximizing a lateral deviation tolerance and by minimizing a gap between the power acquisition device and the power supply device while preventing the power acquisition device from colliding with an obstacle present on a road and being damaged by the collision. |
| US08807300B2 |
Methods and apparatus for managing pressurized gas in fluid dampers
A method and apparatus for a shock absorber having a damping fluid compensation chamber with a gas charge. In one aspect, a partition separates a first chamber portion from a second chamber portion, wherein the first portion of the chamber is at a first initial gas pressure and the second portion of the chamber is at a second initial pressure. A valve separates the first and second chamber portions and opening the valve commingles the first and second chamber portions so that the combined chamber portions are at a third pressure. In another aspect, a piston disposed through a wall is in pressure communication with the gas charge and is biased inwardly toward a pressure of the charge, whereby an indicator is movable by the piston in response to the pressure. |
| US08807296B2 |
Rail vehicle brake unit
A brake unit, preferably for a rail vehicle, including in a housing: a piston, and a push rod in the form of a spindle in an axial slack adjuster. The axial directions of the piston and the push rod are substantially perpendicular to each other, and means are provided for force transmission between these parts. The force transmitting means includes wedge elements at the underside of the piston cooperating with a driver element coaxial with and force-transmittingly connected to the spindle. The driver element is supported with rolling friction by the housing for movements in the axial direction of the spindle, and the spindle is axially guided by the housing at its forward end. |
| US08807295B2 |
Brake caliper of a disk brake
A brake caliper of a disk brake, includes a housing having a bore hole, in which an axially displaceable piston is arranged, and a shaft for actuation, which is supported so that it is rotatable and axially displaceable in the housing, and an adjusting device having a spindle to compensate for brake lining wear, an axial bearing being provided between the spindle and the shaft. For an improved wear resistance, it is proposed according to the invention that the axial bearing be integrally formed from a homogeneous material matrix. |
| US08807291B2 |
Attachment support for installing equipment on aircraft landing gear, use of such an attachment support and assembly comprising a monitoring device and one such attachment support
An attachment support for temporarily installing equipment on a wheel of an aircraft or a vehicle, includes: two support elements connected by a shaft that together form a plane, the elements bearing respectively on the ground and against a tire of the wheel, with the elements extending along an axis parallel to the wheel axis, and displacement members to place the support elements in a first inactive position in which they do not bear on the tire, and a second locked position, in which they bear on the tire to lock the wheel. The members include a lever arm having one end connected to the end of one U-shaped element, whose two arms are mounted in a rotary manner respectively on the ends of one of each support element, the lever arm being displaceable from a horizontal to a vertical position. |
| US08807290B2 |
Brake assembly having wear and failure indicator
A brake assembly for a mobile machine is disclosed. The brake assembly may have a brake housing, an output member rotatably disposed within the brake housing, and a disc stack disposed within a cavity of the brake housing. The disc stack may include a plurality of friction discs coupled to the output member and a plurality of separator plates interleaved with the plurality of friction discs and coupled to the brake housing. The brake assembly may also have a piston disposed within the cavity and configured to compress the disc stack, and an indicator received within a bore of the brake housing against the piston. The indicator may include a first feature configured to provide at least one of visual and tactile indication of wear of the disc stack, and a second feature configured to provide at least one of a visual and tactile indication of failure of the disc stack. |
| US08807280B2 |
Multi-directional transport device for scaffolding
A multi-directional scaffold transport device, which may be attached to each base of a scaffold's legs, provides increased mobility in relation to movement atop corrugated floor decking with vertical anchor studs used in conventional steel I-beam superstructures. The device comprises an elongated flat plate with angled extensions. The angled extensions may form a trapezoidal shape, or more preferably a triangular shape, and may be curved or have compound curvature to enable deflection of the device to either side of any anchor stud encountered, rather than jamming thereon. The elongated flat plate may have minimal length sufficient to normally receive support from at least two peaks of the corrugated decking. The device may incorporate threaded studs protruding from the elongated flat plate, which may be received by holes in the base of the scaffold, and be removeably fastened thereto using nuts. The device may also incorporate vertical walls for increased stiffness. |
| US08807279B2 |
Central bulk fill system having stowable ladder for stack-fold farm implement
A stack-fold implement having a central bulk fill hopper assembly is provided. The bulk fill hopper assembly is mounted to the center frame section of the stack-fold implement and does not affect the narrowness of the stack-fold implement when it's in a stacked, transport position. The hopper assembly includes a pair of bulk fill hoppers or tanks supported by cradle that is in turn supported by a pair of wheels. The cradle is removably coupled to the center frame section by a plurality of rigid frame members. A retractable ladder may be stowed beneath the hopper assembly. |
| US08807276B2 |
Multilayer composite material
The invention concerns a multilayer composite material comprising at least one core (3) interposed between two external layers (1, 2), wherein: —the core (3) is a layer of thermoviscous fluid at room temperature, said thermoviscous fluid having a dynamic viscosity coefficient greater than 100 Pa·s at room temperature, —each external layer (1, 2) is in a material in the solid state at room temperature, each external layer having a surface mass of less than 8 kg/m2. |
| US08807275B2 |
Sound absorbent barrier
A sound absorbent barrier has a sound absorbent layer disposed between a porous first cover and a second cover. The barrier also has a waterproof sound-permeable membrane between the first cover and the sound absorbent layer. The sound absorbent layer is thus protected from damage by the first and second covers and water ingress is prevented by the sound permeable membrane. The second cover may be non-porous to reflect sound waves which have passed through the sound absorbent layer back through the sound absorbent layer. Alternatively, the second cover may be porous to enable absorption of sound from two directions. |
| US08807274B2 |
Control device of a motor vehicle
A control device of a motor vehicle having a noise transmission system and an exhaust system, wherein the noise transmission system has, for manipulating an interior noise of the motor vehicle, at least one intake noise transmission device which can be coupled via a first tubular connecting element to an air intake pipe leading to an internal combustion engine, the first tubular connecting element being assigned a switchable shut-off device, and which can be coupled via a second tubular connecting element to a vehicle interior, wherein the exhaust system has at least one switchable shut-off device for manipulating an exterior noise of the motor vehicle, and wherein the control device manipulates the operation of the noise transmission system and of the exhaust system jointly as a function of an actuation of a common operating element by the driver. |
| US08807268B2 |
Loudspeaker
A loudspeaker comprises a reflex port located within the enclosure at a point substantially co-incident with a nodal surface of at least one resonant mode within the enclosure. The amplitude of that resonance at the input to the duct is minimized, hence assisting in filtering out the effect of that resonance without needing absorptive material. Ideally, it is placed at the intersection of two or more nodal surfaces. |
| US08807266B1 |
Controllable seismic source
An apparatus for generating seismic waves includes a housing, a strike surface within the housing, and a hammer movably disposed within the housing. An actuator induces a striking motion in the hammer such that the hammer impacts the strike surface as part of the striking motion. The actuator is selectively adjustable to change characteristics of the striking motion and characteristics of seismic waves generated by the impact. The hammer may be modified to change the physical characteristics of the hammer, thereby changing characteristics of seismic waves generated by the hammer. The hammer may be disposed within a removable shock cavity, and the apparatus may include two hammers and two shock cavities positioned symmetrically about a center of the apparatus. |
| US08807265B2 |
Tractor
A tractor includes: a driver's compartment; an engine compartment; a partitioning member that partitions the driver's compartment and engine compartment and has a through-hole; a steering wheel provided in the driver's compartment; a power steering unit disposed on the engine compartment side; a steering shaft that extends from the steering wheel and is connected to the power steering unit; an elastic sealing member provided in an inner circumferential portion of the through-hole; and an anti-vibration member. The elastic sealing member includes a supported portion supported to the inner circumferential portion and a ring-shaped lip portion protruding downward from one end of the supported portion. The power steering unit is mounted to the partitioning member via the anti-vibration member, the ring-shaped lip portion is elastically clamped to the upper face of the power steering unit, and the steering shaft is connected to the power steering unit while inserted in the through-hole. |
| US08807264B2 |
Method and apparatus for manual acceleration in motor vehicles
A method and apparatus for the acceleration of a motor vehicle comprising a manually operable control member, a throttle pedal (4) actuatable by the control member and a computer (3). The control member may comprise a known-per-se throttle ring. There is provided a speed sensor (2) to detect the speed of the motor vehicle and to generate a corresponding speed signal (V). Computer (3) has stored therein transmission ratio curves (V1, V2, V3 . . . Vn) each applicable to a different vehicle speed, with each such transmission ratio curve (V1, V2, V3 . . . Vn) representing a ratio of transmitting the amount of actuation of the control member to the applicable stroke of throttle pedal (4). Computer (3) uses the speed signal (V) provided by speed sensor (2) to select one of transmission ratio curves (V1, V2, V3 . . . Vn) for actuating throttle pedal (4) with a stroke corresponding to the transmission ratio curve (V1, V2, V3 . . . Vn) selected. |
| US08807261B2 |
Articulation control system having steering path tracking
An articulation control system is disclosed for use with a mobile machine having a traction device. The articulation control system may have a speed sensor configured to generate a first signal indicative of a travel speed of the mobile machine, a steering angle sensor configured to generate a second signal indicative of a steering angle of the traction device, and an articulation actuator configured to articulate a front frame of the mobile machine relative to a rear frame of the mobile machine. The articulation control system may also have a controller in communication with the speed sensor, the steering angle sensor, and the articulation actuator. The controller may be configured to track a travel path of the front frame based on the first and second signals, and to regulate operation of the articulation actuator to cause the rear frame to follow the travel path of the front frame. |
| US08807260B2 |
Magnetostrictive torque sensor, electrically assisted bicycle and electric power steering apparatus carrying the sensor
A magnetostrictive torque sensor includes a magnetostrictive portion formed on a rotational shaft, a bobbin surrounding an outer circumference of the magnetostrictive portion, and a coil wound on the bobbin for detecting a change in magnetic property of the magnetostrictive portion. The bobbin fits over the magnetostrictive portion in contact with the magnetostrictive portion in such a manner as to allow rotation of the magnetostrictive portion relative to the bobbin. The magnetostrictive torque sensor is carried on an electrically assisted bicycle or an electric power steering apparatus of a vehicle. |
| US08807256B2 |
Methods and systems for compressed natural gas (CNG)
Provided is a compressed natural gas (CNG) fuel system comprising a frame, a first container, a second container, a first manifold, a second manifold, and a casing. The frame may have: a first side; a first connecting member; and a second side. The first container may be configured to house or contain CNG and be engaged to and substantially shrouded by the first side of the frame. The second container may be configured to house or contain CNG and be engaged to and substantially shrouded by the second side of the frame. The first manifold may be engaged to and substantially shrouded by the first side of the frame. The second manifold may be engaged to and substantially shrouded by the second side of the frame. The casing may at least partially surround the frame, the first container, the first manifold, and the second manifold. |
| US08807253B2 |
In-wheel motor drive device
An in-wheel motor drive device 21 includes: a motor portion A; a speed reduction portion B that reduces the speed of rotation of the motor portion A to output the rotation having the reduced speed to an output shaft 28; and a wheel hub 32 coupled to the output shaft 28. The speed reduction portion B has a cylindrical casing-side member 45 that extends from one axial end to the other axial end of the speed reduction portion and that has both one end and the other end formed integrally, the output shaft 28 that is inserted through an inner space region of the casing-side member, and two output-shaft bearings 38a, 38b that are respectively provided on an inner periphery at both ends 45f of the casing-side member to rotatably support the output shaft 28. |
| US08807252B2 |
Driving apparatus for hybrid vehicle
In a driving apparatus for a hybrid vehicle, a travel motor is provided on a rear end of the power unit such that power from the travel motor is transmitted to a differential mechanism from a motor shaft via a gear train and a pinion shaft. Further, an engine is provided on a front end of the power unit, and a generator is provided in the center of the power unit. The engine and the generator are coupled via a gear train, and a generator shaft is disposed above a crankshaft. Thus, a space can be secured below the generator so that the pinion shaft can be disposed below the generator. |
| US08807250B2 |
Powered single-wheeled self-balancing vehicle for standing user
A powered, gyroscopically balanced unicycle device to be used while standing, having leg contact surfaces which are made of a yielding, slightly soft material whose mild friction against the user's legs allows stable, precise control of the device without restraining the legs in any way. In one embodiment a single hubless wheel is driven by a friction drive mechanism which transmits torque from a motor through a drive wheel positioned below the foot platforms and in contact with the inner rim of the wheel. Various structures are provided for supporting the wheel and keeping it in place as it spins; absorbing small vertical movements of the wheel to prevent them from being transmitted to the foot platforms; enabling folding of the foot platforms; and facilitating carrying of the device by hand. Other embodiments are described and shown. |
| US08807248B2 |
Cutting insert for a roof drill bit
A hard cutting insert for use with a roof drill bit includes a first webbed notch and a second webbed notch structured and arranged on the hard insert for removing or evacuating drilling debris from an upper surface of the hard insert during a drilling operation. A roof drill bit including a hard cutting insert having a first webbed notch and a second webbed notch structured and arranged on the hard insert. |
| US08807247B2 |
Cutting elements for earth-boring tools, earth-boring tools including such cutting elements, and methods of forming such cutting elements for earth-boring tools
Cutting elements for use with earth-boring tools include a cutting table having at least two sections where a boundary between the at least two sections is at least partially defined by a discontinuity formed in the cutting table. Earth-boring tools including a tool body and a plurality of cutting elements carried by the tool body. The cutting elements include a cutting table secured to a substrate. The cutting table includes a plurality of adjacent sections, each having a discrete cutting edge where at least one section is configured to be selectively detached from the substrate in order to substantially expose a cutting edge of an adjacent section. Methods for fabricating cutting elements for use with an earth-boring tool including forming a cutting table comprising a plurality of adjacent sections. |
| US08807241B2 |
Devices and methods for horizontal directional drilling with a boring tool library
Various embodiments are directed to a method and apparatus for horizontal directional drilling with a tool library. Various methods include storing a plurality of operational tool profiles in memory, the operational tool profiles of the plurality respectively associated with a plurality of boring tools attachable to a drill string for HHD and each of the operational tool profiles of the plurality including operating parameters for the boring tool of the plurality with which the operational profile is associated, and selectively displaying the operational tool profiles on a display screen based on user input. |
| US08807240B2 |
Gas-engine-powered handheld working machine
A gas-engine-powered handheld working machine has a working unit driven by a engine capable of running on a gas fuel supplied from a gas cartridge. The gas cartridge is arranged such that when the handheld working machine is disposed in a normal rest position where the handheld working machine is placed on a horizontal plane with a bottom surface of a machine body lying flat on the horizontal plane, the gas cartridge is disposed in a substantially vertical position with a discharge nozzle directed downwards while a central axis of the gas cartridge extends substantially perpendicular to the horizontal plane. |
| US08807236B2 |
Agricultural implement incorporating stack-fold planter
A stack-fold implement having a central bulk fill hopper assembly is provided. The bulk fill hopper assembly is mounted to the center frame section of the stack-fold implement and does not affect the narrowness of the stack-fold implement when it's in a stacked, transport position. The hopper assembly includes a pair of bulk fill hoppers or tanks supported by cradle that is in turn supported by a pair of wheels. The cradle is removably coupled to the center frame section by a plurality of rigid frame members. |
| US08807228B2 |
Friction reduction mechanism for a downhole release assembly
A mechanism to enhance disengagement of release assembly portions from one another when disposed in a well. The mechanism may be disposed at an internal rod of the release assembly and configured to prevent frictional resistance to shifting of the rod. |
| US08807226B2 |
Subsea wellhead assembly
Subsea wellhead assembly with an inner bore for conduction of produced hydrocarbons, equipped with a cooling means for cooling a section of the wellhead assembly exposed to heating by said hydrocarbons. |
| US08807219B2 |
Blowout preventer blade assembly and method of using same
A blade assembly of a blowout preventer for shearing a tubular of a wellbore penetrating a subterranean formation is provided. The blowout preventer has a housing with a hole therethrough for receiving the tubular. The blade assembly includes a ram block movable between a non-engagement position and an engagement position about the tubular, a blade carried by the ram block for cuttingly engaging the tubular, a retractable guide carried by the ram block and slidably movable therealong, and a release mechanism for selectively releasing the guide to move between a guide position for guiding engagement with the tubular and a cutting position a distance behind the blade for permitting the blade to cuttingly engage the tubular. |