| Document | Document Title |
|---|---|
| US08809323B2 |
Therapeutic applications of pro-apoptotic benzodiazepines
Benzodiazepine compounds, and methods for using those compounds are provided. Some of the benzodiazepine compounds include 1,4-benzodiazepine-2-one and 1,4-benzodiazepine-2,5-dione compounds of structures: wherein R1, R2, R3 and R4 are as defined. The invention also includes enantiomers, pharmaceutically acceptable salts, prodrugs or derivatives of the benzodiazepine compounds. Any one or more of these benzodiazepine compounds can be used to treat a variety of dysregulatory disorders related to cellular death. Such disorders include autoimmune disorders, inflammatory conditions, hyperproliferative conditions, viral infections, and atherosclerosis. In addition, the above compounds can be used to prepare medicaments to treat the above-described dysregulatory disorders. The benzodiazepines can also be used in drugs screening assays and other diagnostic methods. |
| US08809321B2 |
Diaryl ether linked pyrrolo [2,1-c][1,4] benzodiazepine hybrids and process for the preparation thereof
The present invention provides a compound of general formula A, useful as potential anticancer agents against eleven human cancer cell lines. The present invention further provides a process for the preparation of diaryl ether linked pyrrolo[2,1-c][1,4]benzodi azepine conjugates attached through different alkane spacers of general formula A. |
| US08809316B2 |
Use of immunosuppressant compounds in a new indication
The present invention discloses various immunosuppressants, salts and polymorphs thereof useful in the treatment of various disorders, including peripheral neuropathy. The invention also discloses pharmaceutical formulations utilizing the immunosuppressants, alone or in combination with other compounds, useful in treating disorders such as peripheral neuropathy. The present invention also discloses a method of treating peripheral neuropathy with immunosuppressants disclosed herein. |
| US08809313B2 |
Substituted aliphanes, cyclophanes, heteraphanes, heterophanes, hetero-heteraphanes and metallocenes useful for treating HCV infections
The present disclosure provides substituted aliphanes, cyclophanes, heteraphanes, heterophanes, hetero-heteraphanes and metallocenes, of Formula I D-M-D (Formula I) useful as antiviral agents. In certain embodiments disclosed herein M is a group —P-A-P— where A is Certain substituted aliphanes, cyclophanes, heteraphanes, heterophanes, hetero-heteraphanes and metallocenes disclosed herein are potent and/or selective inhibitors of viral replication, particularly Hepatitis C virus replication. Pharmaceutical compositions/and combinations containing one or more substituted aliphanes, cyclophanes, heteraphanes, heterophanes, hetero-heteraphanes and metallocenes and a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier are also provided by this disclosure. Methods for treating viral infections, including Hepatitis C viral infections are provided by the disclosure. |
| US08809303B2 |
Methods of regulating actin cytoskeletal rearrangement and intercellular gap formation
Methods are described for reducing cytoskeletal rearrangement and intercellular gap formation by contacting cells with an aminoalkyl glucosaminide phosphate. In particular, the methods can be used to reduce actin cytoskeletal rearrangement and/or intracellular gap formation related to ischemic or ischemia-reperfusion events and to alleviate diseases or conditions related to increased actin cytoskeletal rearrangement. |
| US08809302B2 |
Therapeutic approaches for treating alzheimer'S disease
The present invention relates to compositions and methods for the treatment of Alzheimer's disease and related disorders. More specifically, the present invention relates to novel combinatorial therapies of Alzheimer's disease and related disorders. In particular, the invention concerns compounds which, alone or in combination(s), can effectively modulate synapse function and/or angiogenesis and/or cell stress response. The invention also relates to methods of producing a drug or a drug combination for treating Alzheimer's disease and to methods of treating Alzheimer's disease or a related disorder. |
| US08809300B2 |
Depolymerized glycosaminoglycan from Thelenota ananas and preparation method thereof
Disclosed is a depolymerized glycosaminoglycan from Thelenota ananas (dTHG), weight average molecular weight of which is about 8000˜20000 Da, and monosaccharide components of which are acetylgalactosamine (GalNAc), glucuronic acid (GlcUA), fucose (Fuc) or their sulfates (expressed as —OSO3−), in which molar ratio of GalNAc:GlcUA:Fuc:—OSO3− is about 1:(1±0.3):(1±0.3):(3.5±0.5). Said dTHG is a potent endogenous inhibitor of factor X, which has good anticoagulant and antithrombotic activity, and can be used for the prevention and/or treatment of thrombotic diseases. Also provided is a method for preparing said dTHG, which comprises steps of 1) extracting and obtaining fucosylated glycosaminoglycan (THG) from the body wall of Thelenota ananas; 2) depolymerizing THG to obtain dTHG by method of peroxide depolymerization or method of peroxide depolymerization catalyzed by catalyst of the fourth period transition metal ions; 3) removing impurities with lower and/or higher molecular weight in dTHG. |
| US08809298B2 |
Methods, compositions, unit dosage forms, and kits testing for pharmacologic stress testing with reduced side effects
Methods are presented that comprise the administration of a pharmaceutical composition comprising adenosine and dipyridamole, as well methods comprising the combined administration of dipyridamole administered as a bolus with adenosine given as an infusion, both at dosages below their respective single agent dosages, for detecting the presence and/or assessing the severity of myocardial ischemia during pharmacologic stress tests. The methods are useful for exploiting the vasodilating abilities of adenosine at doses at which side effects related to adenosine are substantially reduced while optimal coronary artery perfusion is achieved. Also presented are compositions, unit dosage forms, and kits that are useful in performing the methods. |
| US08809294B2 |
Method of inhibiting miR-33 using a modified oligonucleotide
Compounds, compositions and methods are provided for modulating the expression and function of small non-coding RNAs. The compositions comprise oligomeric compounds, targeted to small non-coding RNAs. Methods of using these compounds for modulation of small non-coding RNAs as well as downstream targets of these RNAs and for diagnosis and treatment of disease associated with small non-coding RNAs are also provided. |
| US08809292B2 |
Compositions and methods for inhibiting expression of the PCSK9 gene
The invention relates to a double-stranded ribonucleic acid (dsRNA) for inhibiting the expression of the PCSK9 gene (PCSK9 gene), comprising an antisense strand having a nucleotide sequence which is less that 30 nucleotides in length, generally 19-25 nucleotides in length, and which is substantially complementary to at least a part of the PCSK9 gene. The invention also relates to a pharmaceutical composition comprising the dsRNA together with a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier and method for treating diseases caused by PCSK9 gene expression. |
| US08809289B2 |
Double-stranded nucleic acid molecule, cancer cell proliferation inhibitor and pharmaceutical agent suitable for prevention or treatment of cancer
A double-stranded nucleic acid molecule including (a) a sense strand which includes a nucleotide sequence corresponding to a target sequence indicated by any one of SEQ ID Nos.: 1 to 21, and (b) an antisense strand which includes a nucleotide sequence complementary to that of the sense strand specified in (a), wherein the double-stranded nucleic acid molecule is for suppressing the expression of at least one of APP and EBAG9 genes. |
| US08809285B2 |
Monophosphorylated lipid A derivatives
The present invention provides for monophosphorylated lipid A derivatives and carbohydrate derivatives that are useful as agents in the treatment of diseases and conditions, including cancers. Also provided are pharmaceutical compositions comprising one or more compounds of Formula I-IV. In addition, methods for the treatment of cancers are provided. |
| US08809284B2 |
Compositions and methods related to calcitriol
Contemplated compositions and methods are drawn to use of various boron-containing compounds to temporarily and transiently increase endogenous blood calcitriol concentration. The boron-containing compound is preferably a carbohydrate-boron complex having sufficient stability to achieve measurable quantities of the complex in blood upon oral administration of the complex. |
| US08809283B2 |
Proteasome inhibitors and uses thereof
The invention relates to methods and compositions for inhibiting proteasome activity using cinnamate compounds. These cinnamate compounds can be formulated for topical or systemic use for skin disorders such as psoriasis. |
| US08809280B2 |
Therapeutic peptides
The present invention provides a peptide, peptidomimetic or amino acid derivative having a net positive charge of at least +2 and incorporating a disubstituted β amino acid, each of the substituting groups in the β amino acid, which may be the same or different, comprises at least (7) non-hydrogen atoms, is lipophilic and has at least one cyclic group, one or more cyclic groups within a substituting group may be linked or fused to one or more cyclic groups within the other substituting group and where cyclic groups are fused in this way the combined total number of non-hydrogen atoms for the two substituting groups is at least (12), for use as a cytolytic therapeutic agent; as well as non therapeutic uses of these molecules and certain defined novel compounds from within this definition. |
| US08809273B2 |
Inhibitors of Bruton's tyrosine kinase
Described herein are irreversible kinase inhibitor compounds, methods for synthesizing such irreversible inhibitors, and methods for using such irreversible inhibitors in the treatment of diseases. Further described herein are methods, assays and systems for determining an appropriate irreversible inhibitor of a protein, including a kinase. |
| US08809266B2 |
Antiviral compounds
The invention is related to anti-viral compounds, compositions containing such compounds, and therapeutic methods that include the administration of such compounds, as well as to processes and intermediates useful for preparing such compounds. |
| US08809265B2 |
Methods for treating HCV
The present invention features interferon- and ribavirin-free therapies for the treatment of HCV. Preferably, the treatment is over a shorter duration of treatment, such as no more than 12 weeks. In one aspect, the therapies comprise administering at least two direct acting antiviral agents without interferon and ribavirin to a subject with HCV infection. For example, the therapies comprise administering to a subject an effective amounts of therapeutic agent 1, therapeutic agent 2 (or therapeutic agent 3), and an inhibitor of cytochrome P450 (e.g., ritonavir). |
| US08809262B2 |
Multimeric forms of antimicrobial peptides
The invention relates to multimeric forms of antimicrobial peptides, for example, defensin peptides. The multimeric forms of defensin peptides possesses antimicrobial activity and may be formulated into antimicrobial compositions, pharmaceutical compositions, eyedrop composition, contact lens solution compositions for coating medical devices and the like. The invention also relates to the use of these multimeric forms of peptides, e.g. multimeric forms of defensin peptides for inhibiting and/or reducing the growth of microorganisms in general, including in a host. The invention further relates to a method of preparing multimers of peptides derived from defensins, for example hBD3. |
| US08809260B2 |
β-arrestin effectors and compositions and methods of use thereof
This application describes a family of compounds acting as β-arrestin effectors. Such compounds may provide significant therapeutic benefit in the treatment of chronic and acute cardiovascular diseases. |
| US08809255B2 |
Low voc content waterless cleaner and article impregnated therewith
A composition is provided that includes 0.5 to 15 total weight percent of a surfactant. The surfactant is a non-ionic surfactant, an anionic surfactant, or a combination thereof. The composition also includes 0.01 to 35 total weight percent of solvent including a microemulsion, a carboxylic acid ester based ketal ester solvent, or a combination thereof 0.1 to 10 total weight percent of at least one emollient, and 60 to 99.3 total weight percent of water also being present. The resultant composition has total volatile organic content (VOC) composition of less than 2 total weight percent and as a result, the composition is more environmental benign and less irritating to skin than conventional waterless hand cleaners. The composition is well suited for being impregnated into a substrate of a towel presenting two opposed surfaces, the substrate having pores for absorbing and retaining the composition. |
| US08809254B2 |
Azeotrope-like compositions of pentafluoroethane and trifluoroiodomethane
Provided are azeotrope-like compositions comprising heptafluoropropane and trifluoroiodomethane and uses thereof, including use in refrigerant compositions, refrigeration systems, blowing agents, fire suppressant compositions, and aerosol propellants. |
| US08809253B2 |
Container with a collapsible receptacle and a disinfectant composition
A container has: a) a collapsible receptacle, the wall of which is designed flexibly such that the internal volume of the receptacle is adapted to the volume of a liquid contained therein, and which has an outlet with an outlet valve; and b) in the receptacle a disinfectant composition in the form of a solution with a content of aliphatic alcohol of at most 20% by weight. It is possible that the disinfectant composition is not contaminated with spores or other germs also after the container has been opened, even upon repeated discharge from the container. |
| US08809252B2 |
Composition
A particulate material comprising a bleach catalyst wherein the particles of the bleach catalyst have a coating and the weight ratio of the coating to the bleach catalyst is in the range of from 10-60 wt %. The particulate material exhibits good stability. |
| US08809251B2 |
Laundry detergent composition comprising water-soluble phthalocyanine compound
The present invention relates to compositions having granules of phthalocyanine compounds, to a process for the preparation thereof, and to the use thereof in washing agent and additive formulations.The composition has: a) At least one water-soluble phthalocyanine compound; b) At least one cross-linked polyvinylpyrrolidone component; c) At least one hydrophilic binding agent; and, optionally, d) Further additives suitable for the preparation of solid agglomerates; and may be liquid, solid, paste-like or gel-like. |
| US08809249B2 |
High alkaline detergent composition with enhanced scale control
A detergent composition for preventing scale on various surfaces includes a threshold system, a caustic and a surfactant system. The threshold system includes a sulfonate/acrylate copolymer, an acrylate homopolymer and a phosphonoalkane carboxylic acid with a sulfonate/acrylate copolymer to acrylate homopolymer weight ratio of between about 2:1 to about 1:2. The pH of the detergent composition is between about 10 and about 13. |
| US08809246B2 |
Braided hair washing method
A braided hair washing method includes washing braided hair using a washing agent that includes a microbubble washing composition and microbubbles, the microbubble washing composition including a protease and a lipase. The braided hair washing method can conveniently and effectively wash braided hair without collapsing the hairstyle. |
| US08809243B2 |
Water-based lubricants
Water-based lubricants for the lubrication of frictional partners in drive elements, as well as their use. In particular, a water-based lubricant that contains 5 to 80% by weight of water-soluble polyalkylene glycol that is selected from the group that is composed of statistically distributed polyoxyethylene units and/or polyoxypropylene units and/or other polyoxyalkylene components, a block polymer that that is composed of polyoxyethylene units and/or polyoxypropylene units and/or other polyoxyalkylene components, 0.5 to 20% by weight of foaming or non-foaming emulsifiers from the class of anionic, non-ionic, or cationic surfactants, water-soluble or water-emulsifiable carboxylic acid esters, 0.5 to 50% by weight of anti-icing additives, selected from the group that is composed of alkylene glycol, glycerol, salts or ionic liquids, 0.05 to 10% by weight of corrosion additives, 0.001 to 1% by weight of additives for preventing the formation of foam, and 0.05 to 5% by weight of friction-reducing agents and water added to make 100% by weight. |
| US08809241B2 |
Hydraulic fluid compositions
An aqueous hydraulic fluid composition comprising a first lubricant comprising at least one phospholipid and a second lubricant comprising an alkoxylate salt. The aqueous hydraulic fluid composition contains less than about 20% by weight (preferably none or substantially none) of an oil selected from the group consisting of mineral oils, synthetic hydrocarbon oils, and mixtures thereof. The use of alkoxylate salts provides increased lubricity and also acts as an emulsion stabilizer for the composition. |
| US08809240B2 |
Equivalent circulating density control in deep water drilling
A method of providing a substantially constant rheological profile of a drilling fluid over a temperature range of about 120° F. to about 40° F. includes adding a drilling fluid additive to the drilling fluid, wherein the drilling fluid additive includes the reaction product of a carboxylic acid with at least two carboxylic moieties; and a polyamine having an amine functionality of two or more. A composition, such as an oil based drilling fluid, includes the reaction product of a carboxylic acid with at least two carboxylic moieties and a polyamine having an amine functionality of two or more. |
| US08809237B2 |
Method of forming an HTS article
A method of forming a superconducting article includes providing a substrate tape, forming a superconducting layer overlying the substrate tape, and depositing a capping layer overlying the superconducting layer. The capping layer includes a noble metal and has a thickness not greater than about 1.0 micron. The method further includes electrodepositing a stabilizer layer overlying the capping layer using a solution that is non-reactive to the superconducting layer. The superconducting layer has an as-formed critical current IC(AF) and a post-stabilized critical current IC(PS). The IC(PS) is at least about 95% of the IC(AF). |
| US08809235B2 |
Formulation
Agrochemical concentrates having a continuous water-containing single phase, where said continuous phase also comprises an oil-based adjuvant and a hydrotrope capable of solubilizing said adjuvant in said continuous phase, a process for making these concentrates and a method of using these concentrates. |
| US08809233B2 |
Ternary herbicidal compositions comprising aminopyralid and imazamox
Herbicidally active compositions, which comprise 4-amino-3,6-dichloropyridine-2-carboxylic acid (common name: aminopyralid), 2-[(RS)-4-isopropyl-4-methyl-5-oxo-2-imidazolin-2-yl]-5-methoxymethylnicotinic acid (common name: imazamox) and at least one herbicide B from the group of the lipid biosynthesis inhibitors, acetohydroxyacid synthase inhibitors, carotenoid biosynthesis inhibitors, auxin herbicides, mitosis inhibitors, protoporphyrinogen IX oxidase inhibitors, growth substances, and a variety of other herbicides selected from aziprotryn, barban, bensulide, benzthiazuron, benzofluor, buminafos, buthidazole, buturon, cafenstrole, chlorbufam, xhlorofenprop-methyl, chloroxuron, cinmethylin, cumyluron, cycluron, cyprazine, cyprazole, dibenzyluron, dipropetryn, dymron, eglinazin-ethyl, endothall, ethiozin, flucabazone, fluorbentranil, flupoxam, isocarbamid, isopropalin, karbutilate, mefluidide, monuron, napropamide, napropanilide, nitralin, oxaciclomefone, phenisopham, piperophos, procyazine, profluralin, pyributicarb, secbumeton, sulfallate (CDEC), terbucarb, triazofenamide, triaziflam or trimeturon, a method for controlling undesirable vegetation, their use for controlling undesirable vegetation, and formulations comprising such compositions. |
| US08809230B2 |
Porous substrates filled with nanomaterials
A composition comprising: at least one porous carbon monolith, such as a carbon aerogel, comprising internal pores, and at least one nanomaterial, such as carbon nanotubes, disposed uniformly throughout the internal pores. The nanomaterial can be disposed in the middle of the monolith. In addition, a method for making a monolithic solid with both high surface area and good bulk electrical conductivity is provided. A porous substrate having a thickness of 100 microns or more and comprising macropores throughout its thickness is prepared. At least one catalyst is deposited inside the porous substrate. Subsequently, chemical vapor deposition is used to uniformly deposit a nanomaterial in the macropores throughout the thickness of the porous substrate. Applications include electrical energy storage, such as batteries and capacitors, and hydrogen storage. |
| US08809228B2 |
Oil adsorbent and method of manufacturing oil adsorbent
According to one embodiment, an oil adsorbent includes inorganic particles and a polymer formed on surfaces of or between the inorganic particles. The content rate of the inorganic particles is 50% by volume or more and 97% by volume or less relative to the inorganic particles and the polymer, and an area of the inorganic particles is 30% or more and 60% or less relative to a cross-section of the inorganic particles and the polymer. |
| US08809227B1 |
Metal-absorbing polymer-containing product
A composite product for the selective removal of dissolved heavy metal ions from water includes a high bulk cotton fabric incorporating a thermally generated polymer in sufficient amount to cause stiffening of the composite product and self-curling when immersed in water. |
| US08809222B2 |
Hydroprocessing catalysts and methods for making thereof
An improved process for preparing a slurry catalyst for the upgrade of heavy oil feedstock is provided. In the process, high shear mixing is employed to generate an emulsion containing droplets of metal precursor in oil with droplet sizes ranging from 0.1 to 300 μm. The emulsion is subsequently sulfided with a sulfiding agent, or in-situ in a heavy oil feedstock to form a slurry catalyst. The in-situ sulfidation in heavy oil is under sufficient condition for the heavy oil feedstock to generate the sulfiding source needed for the sulfidation. |
| US08809221B2 |
Nitrogen containing external donor system for propylene polymerization
The present invention discloses new class of nitrogen containing external donor systems. These donor systems are used in titanium supported on magnesium dichloride pro-catalyst system for polymerization of propylene. The external donor systems of the present invention in combination with silane show the kinetics control for diester catalyst polymerization process along with stereo regularity control of product. The polypropylene produced using nitrogen containing external donor systems of the present invention have broad molecular weight distribution. |
| US08809220B2 |
Method of making Ziegler-Natta type catalysts
A process for making a Ziegler-Natta-type catalyst precursor including contacting a Group 4 metal compound with one or more Titanium compounds selected from the group of TiCl3 (Al-activated or hydrogen-reduced), and Ti(OR)4 where R is ethyl, isopropyl or butyl in the presence of an alcohol solution having at least one C2-C4 alcohol and at least one of MgCl2 and magnesium compounds which form MgCl2 in the presence of the alcohol solution to form a catalyst precursor solution is provided. Also provided are catalysts made from the precursors produced by the process. Also provided are polymers made using the catalysts. |
| US08809217B2 |
Disordered molecular sieve supports for the selective catalytic reduction of NOx
A catalyst for selective catalytic reduction of NOx having one or more transition metals selected from Cr, Mn, Fe, Co, Ce, Ni, Cu, Zn, Ga, Mo, Ru, Rh, Pd, Ag, In, Sn, Re, Ir, Pt, and mixtures thereof supported on a support, wherein the support has a molecular sieve having at least one intergrowth phase having at least two different small-pore, three-dimensional framework structures. |
| US08809214B2 |
Refractory slag band
Refractory cold start slag band including an admixture of partially stabilised zirconia and/or fully stabilised zirconia and monoclinic zirconia. The proportion of monoclinic relative to the total zirconia content is at least 50% by weight and the grain diameter of the monoclinic zirconia is from 0.25 to 0.5mm. |
| US08809212B1 |
Electrospun fiber mats from polymers having a low Tm, Tg, or molecular weight
Methods and apparatus for forming non-woven fiber mats from polymers and monomers that are traditionally difficult to use for fiber formation are shown and described. Applicable techniques include electrospinning and other traditional fiber formation methods. Suitable polymers and monomers include those having low molecular weight, a low melting point, and/or a low glass transition temperature. |
| US08809210B2 |
Low roughness high surface-energy, anti-microbial fabric
A self-decontaminating fabric is manufactured from fibers such as Tencel having high surface energy and low surface roughness. Novel scouring methods eliminate substantially all contaminants from the fibers, and a novel coating process applies an anti-pathogen coating such as a halogen compound to the fabric so as to provide rapid deactivation of pathogens on contact. Novel charging methods activate or reactivate the coating, typically by exposure to chlorine. The coating is substantially free of gap regions where pathogens can survive. The high surface energy of the fibers allows a high coating concentration and provides close contact between attached pathogens and the coating. The low surface roughness reduces the pickup of pathogens by the fibers. Multi-layer embodiments include an outer layer configured for maximum anti-pathogen coating concentration, and an inner layer configured for a reduced coating concentration that is compatible with skin contact. |
| US08809204B2 |
Method of manufacturing semiconductor device and substrate processing apparatus
A method of manufacturing a semiconductor device, the method comprising: forming an oxide film on a substrate by alternately repeating: (a) forming an element-containing layer on the substrate by supplying a source gas containing an element into a process vessel accommodating the substrate; and (b) changing the element-containing layer to an oxide layer by supplying an oxygen-containing gas and a hydrogen-containing gas into the process vessel having an inside pressure lower than atmospheric pressure, reacting the oxygen-containing gas with the hydrogen-containing gas to generate an atomic oxygen, and oxidizing the element-containing layer by the atomic oxygen. |
| US08809201B2 |
Method of forming metal oxide film and metal oxide film
The present invention provides; a method for forming a metal oxide film which has both a surface irregularity and a predetermined pattern or either and has few unevenness of surface specific resistance, light transmittance and the like, and such the metal oxide film.The method for forming a metal oxide film having both a surface irregularity and a predetermined pattern or either on a substrate, wherein, the method comprises a first process in which a liquid material containing a metal salt is applied on the substrate to form a metal salt film, a second process in which a surface irregularity or a predetermined pattern is formed to the metal salt film, and a third process in which the metal salt film is converted to a metal oxide film by thermal oxidation treatment or plasma oxidation treatment. |
| US08809195B2 |
Etching high-k materials
A dry etch method, apparatus, and system for etching a high-k material comprises sequentially contacting the high-k material with a vapor phase reducing agent, and a volatilizing etchant in a cyclical process. In some preferred embodiments, the reducing agent and/or volatilizing etchant is plasma activated. Control over etch rate and/or selectivity are improved by the pulsed process, where, in some embodiments, each step in the cyclical process has a self-limited extent of etching. Embodiments of the method are useful in the fabrication of integrated devices, as well as for cleaning process chambers. |
| US08809192B2 |
Method for deposition of at least one electrically conducting film on a substrate
A method for deposition of at least one electrically conducting film on a substrate, wherein the method includes the steps of: selecting a layer of a film material, wherein the layer includes a mask on a front side, and wherein the layer and the mask are one piece; positioning the front side of the layer upon the substrate; applying at least one laser pulse onto a back side of the layer, so as to melt and to vaporize at least parts of the layer such that melt droplets are propelled toward and deposited upon the substrate; and forming the film, wherein at least one slot of the mask limits the distribution of the melt droplets. |
| US08809191B2 |
Semiconductor device and method of forming UBM structure on back surface of TSV semiconductor wafer
A semiconductor device has a plurality of conductive vias formed through the semiconductor die with a first insulating layer around the conductive vias. A recess is formed in the first insulating layer around the conductive vias by LDA. A portion of the semiconductor wafer is removed by LDA after forming the recess in the first insulating layer so that the conductive vias extend above a surface of the semiconductor wafer. The first insulating layer extends to the surface of the semiconductor wafer or above the surface of the semiconductor wafer. A second insulating layer is formed over the surface of the semiconductor wafer and conductive vias. A first portion of the second insulating layer is removed by LDA, while leaving a second portion of the second insulating layer over the surface of the semiconductor wafer around the conductive vias. An electroless plated bump is formed over the conductive vias. |
| US08809189B2 |
Method of forming through-silicon via using laser ablation
Methods of forming through-silicon vias by using laser ablation. A method includes, laser drilling to form a plurality of grooves by irradiating a laser beam onto an upper surface of a silicon wafer, and grinding a lower surface of the silicon wafer to form a plurality of through-silicon vias by exposing the grooves on the lower surface of the silicon wafer. |
| US08809187B2 |
Body contacts for FET in SOI SRAM array
Contact with a floating body of an FET in SOI may be formed in a portion of one of the two diffusions of the FET, wherein the portion of the diffusion (such as N−, for an NFET) which is “sacrificed” for making the contact is a portion of the diffusion which is not immediately adjacent (or under) the gate. This works well with linked body FETs, wherein the diffusion does not extend all the way to BOX, hence the linked body (such as P−) extends under the diffusion where the contact is being made. An example showing making contact for ground to two NFETs (PG and PD) of a 6T SRAM cell is shown. |
| US08809186B2 |
Semiconductor device including gate electrode for applying tensile stress to silicon substrate, and method of manufacturing the same
A gate insulating film and a gate electrode of non-single crystalline silicon for forming an nMOS transistor are provided on a silicon substrate. Using the gate electrode as a mask, n-type dopants having a relatively large mass number (70 or more) such as As ions or Sb ions are implanted, to form a source/drain region of the nMOS transistor, whereby the gate electrode is amorphized. Subsequently, a silicon oxide film is provided to cover the gate electrode, at a temperature which is less than the one at which recrystallization of the gate electrode occurs. Thereafter, thermal processing is performed at a temperature of about 1000° C., whereby high compressive residual stress is exerted on the gate electrode, and high tensile stress is applied to a channel region under the gate electrode. As a result, carrier mobility of the nMOS transistor is enhanced. |
| US08809185B1 |
Dry etching method for metallization pattern profiling
A method for profiling a film stack includes receiving a film stack having an insulation layer, a dielectric hard mask layer, and a patterned metal hard mask layer. The pattern in the patterned metal hard mask layer is transferred to the dielectric hard mask layer using a first dry etching process. The pattern in the dielectric hard mask layer is then transferred to the insulation layer using a second dry etching process including one or more halogen-containing gases. The second etching process etches the insulation layer and removes a portion of the patterned metal hard mask layer, which exposes a corner of the underlying dielectric hard mask layer. Portions of the dielectric hard mask layer that overhang the insulation layer are removed using a third dry etching process including a process composition that is more selective to the dielectric hard mask layer relative to the insulation layer. |
| US08809182B2 |
Pad cushion structure and method of fabrication for Pb-free C4 integrated circuit chip joining
A controlled collapse chip connection (C4) method and integrated circuit structure for lead (Pb)-free solder balls with stress relief to the underlying insulating layers of the integrated circuit chip by disposing soft thick insulating cushions beneath the solder balls and connecting the metallization of the integrated circuit out-of-contact of the cushions but within the pitch of the solder balls. |
| US08809181B2 |
Multi-solder techniques and configurations for integrated circuit package assembly
Embodiments of the present disclosure are directed towards multi-solder techniques and configurations for integrated circuit (IC) package assembly. In one embodiment, a method includes depositing a plurality of solder balls on a plurality of pads of a package substrate, the plurality of solder balls corresponding with the plurality of pads and performing a solder reflow process to form a solder joint between the plurality of solder balls and the plurality of pads. Individual solder balls of the plurality of solder balls include a first solder material and a second solder material, the first solder material having a liquidus temperature that is greater than a peak temperature of the solder reflow process and the second solder material having a liquidus temperature that is less than the peak temperature of the solder reflow process. Other embodiments may be described and/or claimed. |
| US08809180B2 |
Producing SiC packs on a wafer plane
A method for producing at least one semiconductor component group, in particular a SiC semiconductor component group, includes the step of producing a number of semiconductor components on a substrate, particularly on a wafer. The individual semiconductor components are tested for detecting operative semiconductor components. At least one semiconductor component group is assembled, which is formed of a number of operative semiconductor components and which forms a coherent flat structure. The operative semiconductor components of the semiconductor component group are electrically connecting in parallel. |
| US08809179B2 |
Method for reducing topography of non-volatile memory and resulting memory cells
A method for forming a semiconductor structure includes providing a substrate; forming a gate stack of a flash memory cell, wherein a top portion of the gate stack comprises a capping layer; forming a gate having at least a portion over the capping layer; and reducing a thickness of the portion of the gate over the capping layer. The topography height difference between the flash memory cell and MOS devices on the same chip is reduced. |
| US08809178B2 |
Methods of forming bulk FinFET devices with replacement gates so as to reduce punch through leakage currents
One illustrative method disclosed herein includes forming a plurality of spaced-apart trenches in a semiconducting substrate to thereby define a fin structure for the device, forming a local isolation region within each of the trenches, forming a sacrificial gate structure on the fin structure, wherein the sacrificial gate structure comprises at least a sacrificial gate electrode, and forming a layer of insulating material above the fin structure and within the trench above the local isolation region. In this example, the method further includes performing at least one etching process to remove the sacrificial gate structure to thereby define a gate cavity, after removing the sacrificial gate structure, performing at least one etching process to form a recess in the local isolation region, and forming a replacement gate structure that is positioned in the recess in the local isolation region and in the gate cavity. |
| US08809175B2 |
Methods of anneal after deposition of gate layers
Multi-stage preheat high-temperature anneal processes after the deposition of the gate dielectric layer(s) reduce the number of interfacial sites and improve the negative bias temperature instability (NTBI) performance of a p-type metal-oxide-semiconductor transistor (PMOS). The gate dielectric layers may include an interfacial oxide layer and a high-k dielectric layer. The multi-stage preheat is designed to reduce dopant deactivation and to improve inter-mixing between the interfacial oxide layer and the high-k dielectric layer. The high-temperature anneal is used to reduce the number of interfacial sites at the interface between the silicon substrate and the interfacial oxide layer. |
| US08809174B2 |
MOSFET gate and source/drain contact metallization
A MOSFET is described incorporating a common metal process to make contact to the source, drain and the metal gate respectively which may be formed concurrently with the same metal or metals. |
| US08809166B2 |
High die strength semiconductor wafer processing method and system
Embodiments of methods and systems for processing a semiconductor wafer are described. In one embodiment, a method for processing a semiconductor wafer involves performing laser stealth dicing on the semiconductor wafer to form a stealth dicing layer within the semiconductor wafer and after performing laser stealth dicing, cleaning the semiconductor wafer from a back-side surface of the semiconductor wafer with a blade to remove at least a portion of the stealth dicing layer. Other embodiments are also described. |
| US08809165B2 |
Method for fusing a laser fuse and method for processing a wafer
A method for fusing a laser fuse in accordance with various embodiments may include: providing a semiconductor workpiece having a substrate region and at least one laser fuse; fusing the at least one laser fuse from a back side of the substrate region by means of an infrared laser beam. |
| US08809163B2 |
Fabricating method of trench-gate metal oxide semiconductor device
A fabricating method of a trench-gate metal oxide semiconductor device is provided. The fabricating method includes the steps of defining a first zone and a second zone in a substrate, forming at least one first trench in the second zone, forming a dielectric layer on the first zone and the second zone, filling the dielectric layer in the first trench, performing an etching process to form at least one second trench in the first zone by using the dielectric layer as an etching mask, forming a first gate dielectric layer on a sidewall of the second trench, and filling a conducting material layer into the second trench, thereby forming a first gate electrode. |
| US08809159B2 |
Radiation enhanced resistive switching layers
Provided are radiation enhanced resistive switching layers, resistive random access memory (ReRAM) cells including these layers, as well as methods of forming these layers and cells. Radiation creates defects in resistive switching materials that allow forming and breaking conductive paths in these materials thereby improving their resistive switching characteristics. For example, ionizing radiation may break chemical bonds in various materials used for such a layer, while non-ionizing radiation may form electronic traps. Radiation power, dozing, and other processing characteristics can be controlled to generate a distribution of defects within the resistive switching layer. For example, an uneven distribution of defects through the thickness of a layer may help with lowering switching voltages and/or currents. Radiation may be performed before or after thermal annealing, which may be used to control distribution of radiation created defects and other types of defects in resistive switching layers. |
| US08809156B1 |
Method for implementing deep trench enabled high current capable bipolar transistor for current switching and output driver applications
A method and structures are provided for implementing deep trench enabled high current capable bipolar transistor for current switching and output driver applications. A deep oxygen implant is provided in a selected region of substrate. A first deep trench and second deep trench are formed above the deep oxygen implant. The first deep trench is a generally large rectangular box deep trench of minimum width and the second deep trench is a second small area deep trench centered within the first rectangular box deep trench. Ion implantation at relatively high ion pressure and annealing is utilized to form highly doped N+ regions or P+ regions both inside and outside the outside the first deep trench and around the outside the second deep trench region. These regions provide the collector and emitter respectively, and the existing substrate region provides the base region between the collector and emitter regions. |
| US08809155B2 |
Back-end-of-line metal-oxide-semiconductor varactors
Device structures, design structures, and fabrication methods for a varactor. The device structure includes a first electrode formed on a dielectric layer, and a semiconductor body formed on the first electrode. The semiconductor body is comprised of a silicon-containing semiconductor material in an amorphous state or a polycrystalline state. The device structure further includes an electrode insulator formed on the semiconductor body and a second electrode formed on the electrode insulator. |
| US08809154B2 |
Semiconductor device and method for manufacturing the same
A highly reliable semiconductor device in which a transistor including an oxide semiconductor film has stable electric characteristics is manufactured. In the semiconductor device which includes an inverted-staggered transistor having a bottom-gate structure and being provided over a substrate having an insulating surface, at least a first gate insulating film and a second gate insulating film are provided between a gate electrode layer and an oxide semiconductor film, and heat treatment is performed at a temperature of 450° C. or higher, preferably 650° C. or higher, and then the oxide semiconductor film is formed. By the heat treatment at a temperature of 450° C. or higher before the formation of the oxide semiconductor film, diffusion of hydrogen elements into the oxide semiconductor film, which causes degradation or variations in electric characteristics of the transistor, can be reduced, so that the transistor can have stable electric characteristics. |
| US08809153B2 |
Graphene transistors with self-aligned gates
Graphene transistor devices and methods of their fabrication are disclosed. In accordance with one method, a resist is deposited to pattern a gate structure area over a graphene channel on a substrate. In addition, gate dielectric material and gate electrode material are deposited over the graphene channel and the resist. Further, the resist and the electrode and dielectric materials that are disposed above the resist are lifted-off to form a gate structure including a gate electrode and a gate dielectric spacer and to expose portions of the graphene channel that are adjacent to the gate structure. Additionally, source and drain electrodes are formed over the exposed portions of the graphene channel. |
| US08809146B2 |
Semiconductor devices comprising a plurality of gate structures
Methods for forming semiconductor memory structures including a gap between adjacent gate structures are provided. The methods may include forming an insulation layer between the adjacent gate structures. In some embodiments, the methods may include subsequently removing a portion of the insulation layer to leave the gap between the adjacent gate structures. |
| US08809144B2 |
On-chip capacitors with a variable capacitance for a radiofrequency integrated circuit
Methods of fabricating an on-chip capacitor with a variable capacitance, as well as methods of adjusting the capacitance of an on-chip capacitor and design structures for an on-chip capacitor. The method includes forming first and second ports configured to be powered with opposite polarities, first and second electrodes, and first and second voltage-controlled units. The method includes configuring the first voltage-controlled unit to selectively couple the first electrode with the first port, and the second voltage-controlled unit to selectively couple the second electrode with the second port. When the first electrode is coupled by the first voltage-controlled unit with the first port and the second electrode is coupled by the second voltage-controlled unit with the second port, the capacitance of the on-chip capacitor increases. |
| US08809143B2 |
Fabrication of MOS device with schottky barrier controlling layer
Fabricating a semiconductor device includes: forming a gate trench in an epitaxial layer overlaying a semiconductor substrate; depositing gate material in the gate trench; forming a body; forming a source; forming an active region contact trench that extends through the source and the body into the drain; forming a Schottky barrier controlling layer in the epitaxial layer in bottom region of the active region contact trench; and disposing a contact electrode within the active region contact trench. |
| US08809142B2 |
Structure and method to form E-fuse with enhanced current crowding
An e-fuse structure and method has an anode; a fuse link (a first end of the fuse link is connected to the anode); a cathode (a second end of the fuse link opposite the first end is connected to the cathode); and a silicide layer on the fuse link. The silicide layer has a first silicide region adjacent the anode and a second silicide region adjacent the cathode. The second silicide region comprises an impurity not contained within the first silicide region. Further, the first silicide region is thinner than the second silicide region. |
| US08809140B2 |
Aqua regia and hydrogen peroxide HCl combination to remove Ni and NiPt residues
A method for cleaning residues from a semiconductor substrate during a nickel platinum silicidation process is disclosed, including a multi-step residue cleaning, including exposing the substrate to an aqua regia solution, followed by an exposure to a solution having hydrochloric acid and hydrogen peroxide. The SC2 solution can further react with remaining platinum residues, rendering it more soluble in an aqueous solution and thereby dissolving it from the surface of the substrate. |
| US08809135B2 |
MEMS device and interposer and method for integrating MEMS device and interposer
A method for producing Microelectromechanical Systems (MEMS) and related devices using Silicon-On-Insulator (SOI) wafer includes providing an SOI wafer, performing a mesa etch to at least partially define the MEMS device, bonding the SOI wafer to an interposer by direct boding, removing the handle layer of the SOI wafer, removing the oxide layer of the SOI wafer, and further etching the device layer of the SOI wafer to define the MEMS device. A structure manufactured according to the above described processes includes an interposer comprising an SOI wafer and a MEMS device mounted on the interposer. The MEMS device comprises posts extending from a silicon plate. The MEMS device is directly mounted to the interposer by bonding the posts of the MEMS device to the device layer of the interposer. |
| US08809130B2 |
Reverse block-type insulated gate bipolar transistor manufacturing method
A reverse block-type insulated gate bipolar transistor (IGBT) manufacturing method that, when manufacturing a reverse block-type IGBT having a separation layer formed along tapered surfaces of a V-shaped groove formed using anisotropic etching, can secure a highly reliable reverse pressure resistance, and suppress a leakage current when reverse biasing. When irradiating with a flash lamp for flash lamp annealing after implantation of ions into a second conductivity type separation layer and second conductivity type collector layer to form the second conductivity type collector layer and second conductivity type separation layer, the strongest portion of radiation energy is focused on a depth position from the upper portion to the central portion of a tapered side edge surface. |
| US08809125B2 |
Reducing thermal expansion effects in semiconductor packages
Reducing effects of thermal expansion in electronic components. An electronic device can include a support, such as a leadframe. An electronic component can be supported by the support. A first flexible layer can cover the electronic component. A second more rigid layer can cover the first layer. The first layer can be made from a material that is more flexible than the second layer thereby creating a mechanical buffer layer between the second layer and the electronic component such that the electronic component is protected from thermal expansion of the second portion caused by changes in temperature. The electronic component can be a laser. The first and second materials can be selected to disperse an optical emission from the optical transmitter. |
| US08809124B2 |
Bumpless build-up layer and laminated core hybrid structures and methods of assembling same
A structure includes a hybrid substrate for supporting a semiconductive device that includes a bumpless build-up layer in which the semiconductive device is embedded and a laminated-core structure. The bumpless build-up layer and the laminated-core structure are rendered an integral apparatus by a reinforcement plating that connects to a plated through hole in the laminated-core structure and to a subsequent bond pad of the bumpless build-up layer structure. |
| US08809123B2 |
Three dimensional integrated circuit structures and hybrid bonding methods for semiconductor wafers
Three dimensional integrated circuit (3DIC) structures and hybrid bonding methods for semiconductor wafers are disclosed. A 3DIC structure includes a first semiconductor device having first conductive pads disposed within a first insulating material on a top surface thereof, the first conductive pads having a first recess on a top surface thereof. The 3DIC structure includes a second semiconductor device having second conductive pads disposed within a second insulating material on a top surface thereof coupled to the first semiconductor device, the second conductive pads having a second recess on a top surface thereof. A sealing layer is disposed between the first conductive pads and the second conductive pads in the first recess and the second recess. The sealing layer bonds the first conductive pads to the second conductive pads. The first insulating material is bonded to the second insulating material. |
| US08809119B1 |
Integrated circuit packaging system with plated leads and method of manufacture thereof
An integrated circuit packaging system and method of manufacture thereof including: providing a leadframe having unprocessed leads; depositing an etch mask on a top surface of the unprocessed leads, the unprocessed leads having the etch mask and an unmasked portions of the top surface; connecting an integrated circuit die to the unprocessed leads; encapsulating with a package body the leadframe, the top surface of the unprocessed leads exposed from the package body; forming side-solderable leads including forming a groove in the unprocessed leads, the groove formed under a portion of the etch mask including forming an overhang of the etch mask over the groove; removing the etch mask; and depositing a plating on the side-solderable leads. |
| US08809116B2 |
Method for wafer level packaging of electronic devices
A method of packaging a semiconductor device that incorporates the formation of cavities about electronic devices during the packaging process. In one example, the device package includes a first substrate having a first recess formed therein, a second substrate having a second recess formed therein, and an electronic device mounted in the first recess. The first and second substrates are joined together with the first and second recesses substantially overlying one another so as to form a cavity around the electronic device. |
| US08809115B2 |
Method for manufacturing semiconductor device
To provide a method for manufacturing a thin film transistor in which contact resistance between an oxide semiconductor layer and source and drain electrode layers is small, the surfaces of the source and drain electrode layers are subjected to sputtering treatment with plasma and an oxide semiconductor layer containing In, Ga, and Zn is formed successively over the source and drain electrode layers without exposure of the source and drain electrode layers to air. |
| US08809111B2 |
Methods of making patterned structures of fluorine-containing polymeric materials and fluorine-containing polymers
Methods and compositions for obtaining patterned structures comprising fluorine-containing polymeric materials. The fluorine-containing polymeric materials have sufficient fluorine content such that the materials can be patterned using conventional photolithographic/pattern transfer methods and maintain desirable mechanical and physical properties. The patterned structures can be used, for example, in light-emitting devices. |
| US08809110B2 |
High throughput parallel backside contacting and periodic texturing for high-efficiency solar cells
Disclosed are configurations of long-range ordered features of solar cell materials, and methods for forming same. Some features include electrical access openings through a backing layer to a photovoltaic material in the solar cell. Some features include textured features disposed adjacent a surface of a solar cell material. Typically the long-range ordered features are formed by ablating the solar cell material with a laser interference pattern from at least two laser beams. |
| US08809109B2 |
Method and structure for eliminating edge peeling in thin-film photovoltaic absorber materials
A method for manufacturing a thin-film photovoltaic device includes providing a glass substrate contained sodium species. The glass substrate comprising a surface region and a peripheral edge region surround the surface region. The method further includes forming a barrier material overlying the surface region and partially overlying the peripheral edge region and forming a conductor material overlying the barrier material. Additionally, the method includes forming at least a first trench in a vicinity of the peripheral edge region to remove substantially the conductor material therein and forming precursor materials overlying the patterned conductor material. Furthermore, the method includes thermally treating the precursor materials to transform the precursor materials into a film of photovoltaic absorber. The first trench is configured to maintain the film of photovoltaic absorber substantially free from peeling off the conductor material. |
| US08809104B2 |
Dye-sensitized solar cell and method of fabricating the same
Provided are a dye-sensitized solar cell and a method of fabricating the same. The dye-sensitized solar cell includes an electrode structure including a conductive layer having pores that are regularly arranged, a semiconductor oxide layer disposed on a surface of the conductive layer, and a dye layer disposed on a surface of the semiconductor oxide layer. |
| US08809102B2 |
Solar battery cell connection method and solar battery module
A method of connecting solar battery cells, each provided with a front-face and a back-face electrode, comprises: preparing a wiring member including a strip-like conductive substrate and an adhesive layer provided on one face of the substrate, and bonding the adhesive layer on one end portion of the wiring member with the front-face electrode or the back-face electrode of one cell; turning an other end portion of the wiring member having completed the above preparation, around a central axis along a longitudinal direction so an adhesive layer surface of the other end portion is opposite in orientation to an adhesive layer surface of the one end portion; and then bonding the adhesive layer of the other end portion of the wiring member with an electrode of another solar battery cell having an opposite polarity to the electrode of the one cell previously bonded in the aforementioned preparation process. |
| US08809101B2 |
Semiconductor light emitting device, nitride semiconductor wafer, and method for manufacturing nitride semiconductor layer
According to one embodiment, a semiconductor light emitting device includes: first and second semiconductor layers, a light emitting part, and an In-containing layer. The first semiconductor layer is formed on a silicon substrate via a foundation layer. The light emitting part is provided on the first semiconductor layer, and includes barrier layers and a well layer provided between the barrier layers including Ga1−z1Inz1N (0 |
| US08809097B1 |
Passivated emitter rear locally patterned epitaxial solar cell
Passivated emitter rear local epitaxy (PERL-e) thin Si solar cells may be formed with a heavily doped epitaxial back surface field (BSF) layer, which is patterned to form well spaced point contacts to the silicon base on the rear of the solar cell. The back side of the cell may be finished with a dielectric passivation layer and a metallization layer for making electrical contact to the cell. PERL-e thick Si solar cells may be formed with heavily doped epitaxial films as the back point contacts, where the point contacts are defined by the provision of a selectively patterned thermal oxide on the rear wafer surface. Furthermore, absorption of longer wavelength, infrared (IR), light in thin silicon solar cells may be improved by the addition of a dielectric stack on the rear surface of the solar cell (a back reflector). |
| US08809096B1 |
Bell jar extraction tool method and apparatus for thin film photovoltaic materials
An apparatus for extracting a bell jar chamber from a processing station of a thin film photovoltaic material is provided. The apparatus includes a rack fixture coupled to a robot loader. The rack fixture is configured to support the bell jar chamber to be moved using the robot loader in a horizontal direction and in a vertical direction. The apparatus further includes at least two support members configured within a vicinity of an upper region of the rack fixture. |
| US08809093B2 |
Methods for fabricating self-aligning semicondutor heterostructures using silicon nanowires
Methods for fabricating self-aligned heterostructures and semiconductor arrangements using silicon nanowires are described. |
| US08809090B2 |
All-silicon Raman amplifiers and laser based on micro ring resonators
Devices for generating a laser beam are disclosed. The devices include a silicon micro ring having at least one silicon optical waveguide disposed at a distance from the micro ring. The radius and the cross-sectional dimension of the micro ring, the cross-sectional dimension of the waveguide, and the distance between the micro ring and the waveguide are determined such that one or more pairs of whispering gallery mode resonant frequencies of the micro ring are separated by an optical phonon frequency of silicon. Methods of manufacturing a lasing device including a silicon micro ring coupled with a silicon waveguide are also disclosed. |
| US08809088B2 |
Structure of stacking chips and method for manufacturing the same
A structure of stacking chips and a method for manufacturing the structure of stacking chips are provided. A wafer with optical chips and a glass substrate with signal processing chips are stacked with each other, and then subjected to ball mounting and die sawing to form the stacked packaging structure. The optical chips and the signal processing chips form the electrical connection on the surface of the glass substrate via the through holes thereof. |
| US08809085B2 |
Method for manufacturing nitride semiconductor device
According to one embodiment, a method is disclosed for manufacturing a nitride semiconductor device. The method can include removing a growth substrate from a structure body by using a first treatment material. The structure body has the growth substrate, a buffer layer formed on the growth substrate, and the nitride semiconductor layer formed on the buffer layer. A support substrate is bonded to the nitride semiconductor layer. The method can include reducing thicknesses of the buffer layer and the nitride semiconductor layer by using a second treatment material different from the first treatment material after removing the growth substrate. |
| US08809083B2 |
Method of manufacturing light emitting diode
A method of manufacturing a light emitting diode (LED) comprising: providing a porous carrier, a base disposed on the carrier and a plurality of light emitting elements mounted on the base, wherein the carrier defines a plurality of micro through-holes extending through a first face to a second face of the carrier, and the base has electrical structures formed thereon electrically connecting to the light emitting elements, respectively; providing a mold to receive the carrier therein and distributing a phosphor glue on the base to cover the light emitting elements, and the mold defining an air outlet communicated with the through-holes of the carrier; vacuuming the mold via the air outlet to flatten an outer face of the phosphor glue; heating the phosphor glue and removing the mold; and removing the carrier. |
| US08809079B2 |
Materials and methods for organic light-emitting device microcavity
The present teachings provide methods for forming organic layers for an organic light-emitting device (OLED) using an inkjet printing or thermal printing process. The method can further use one or more additional processes, such as vacuum thermal evaporation (VTE), to create an OLED stack. OLED stack structures are also provided wherein at least one of the charge injection or charge transport layers is formed by an inkjet printing or thermal printing method at a high deposition rate. The structure of the organic layer can be amorphous, crystalline, porous, dense, smooth, rough, or a combination thereof, depending on deposition parameters and post-treatment conditions. An OLED microcavity is also provided and can be formed by one of more of the methods. |
| US08809073B2 |
Apparatus and methods for de-embedding through substrate vias
A method includes providing on a substrate having at least two through substrate vias (“TSVs”) a plurality of test structures for de-embedding the measurement of the intrinsic characteristics of a device under test (DUT) including at least two of the TSVs; measuring the intrinsic characteristics [L] for a first and a second test structure on the substrate including two pads coupled with a transmission line of length L; using simultaneous solutions of ABCD matrix or T matrix form equations, and the measured intrinsic characteristics, solving for the intrinsic characteristics of the pads and the transmission lines; de-embedding the measurements of the third and fourth test structures using the intrinsic characteristics of the pads and the transmission lines; and using simultaneous solutions of ABCD matrix or T matrix form equations for BM_L and BM_LX, and the measured intrinsic characteristics, solving for the intrinsic characteristics of the TSVs. |
| US08809068B2 |
Manipulation of beads in droplets and methods for manipulating droplets
The invention provides a method of dispersing or circulating magnetically responsive beads within a droplet in a droplet actuator. The invention, in one embodiment, makes use of a droplet actuator with a plurality of droplet operations electrodes configured to transport the droplet, and a magnetic field present at a portion of the plurality of droplet operations electrodes. A bead-containing droplet is provided on the droplet actuator in the presence of the uniform magnetic field. Beads are circulated in the droplet during incubation by conducting droplet operations on the droplet within a uniform region of the magnetic field wherein droplet operations do not allow magnetically responsive beads to be introduced into a region of the magnetic field which is sufficiently non-uniform to cause bead clumping resulting in a more homogenous distribution of the beads in the droplet. Other embodiments are also provided. |
| US08809067B2 |
Highly fluorescent markers for fluids or articles
The present invention provides highly fluorescent markers, made from a reactive polymer and an isocyanate, that fluoresce in the ultraviolet or near infrared region without being visible to the human eye at low concentrations in the fluid or article being marked. The molecular weight and fluorescence emission wavelength of these highly fluorescent marker compounds can be adjusted to provide a multitude of markers with unique fluorescence signatures. |
| US08809066B2 |
Apparatus and method for image detection of test strip comprising code area
An analyzing apparatus contains an image detection unit and an analysis unit. The image detection unit contains a view field area that covers at least a reaction area and a background area in a test piece. The reaction area exhibits a reaction color when exposed to a test substance in a specimen. The analysis unit detects the test substance based on the reaction color and determines, during detection of the test substance, whether a state of the background area falls within an acceptable range set for the test substance. |
| US08809065B2 |
Detection and measurement of mass change using an electromechanical resonator
A change in impedance of a electromechanical resonating sensor is utilized to detect and/or measure a change in mass accumulated on the sensor. The impedance is monitored at a fixed frequency. The fixed frequency may be at or near the resonance frequency of the sensor. In various configurations, the sensor comprises a quartz crystal microbalance sensor or a piezoelectric cantilever sensor. |
| US08809059B2 |
Plants with increased yield
The present invention disclosed herein provides a method for producing a plant with increased yield as compared to a corresponding wild type plant comprising increasing or generating one or more activities in a plant or a part thereof. The present invention further relates to nucleic acids enhancing or improving one or more traits of a transgenic plant, and cells, progenies, seeds and pollen derived from such plants or parts, as well as methods of making and methods of using such plant cell(s) or plant(s), progenies, seed(s) or pollen. Particularly, said improved trait(s) are manifested in an increased yield, preferably by improving one or more yield-related trait(s), e.g. low temperature tolerance. |
| US08809056B2 |
Immortalized avian cell lines comprising E1A nucleic acid sequences
This invention relates to immortalized avian cells, and to the use of these cells for the production of viruses. The cells according to the invention are particularly useful for the production of recombinant viral vectors which can be used for the preparation of therapeutic and/or prophylactic compositions for the treatment of animals and more particularly humans. |
| US08809052B2 |
Methods of generating mature oligodendrocytes
A method of generating neural and glial cells is provided. The method comprising growing human stem cells under conditions which induce differentiation of said human stem cells into the neural and glial cells, said conditions comprising the presence of retinoic acid and an agent capable of down-regulating Bone Morphogenic Protein activity. |
| US08809038B1 |
Process for treatment of organic waste materials
A method for treating waste material includes screening the material to produce “unders” that pass a screen and “overs” that do not. The overs are hydrothermally treated to produce a partially hydrolyzed biomass. The unders from the waste material, and the partially hydrolyzed biomass, are anaerobically digested. The method can also include recovering, and anaerobically digesting, volatile organic compounds from the hydrothermal treatment. A system for treating waste material comprises a screening device, an autoclave, and an anaerobic digester. The screening device separates the waste material into unders and overs, the autoclave receives the overs from the screening device and processes the overs with steam to produce a partially hydrolyzed biomass, and the digester receives and anaerobically digests the unders of the waste material and the partially hydrolyzed biomass. The system can also include an eductor coupled to the autoclave and configured to discharge to the digester. |
| US08809037B2 |
Systems, apparatuses and methods for treating wastewater
Systems, apparatuses, and methods of treating wastewater are provided. In some aspects, a container may be provided and may include a first member, a second member spaced apart from the first member, and media supported by and extending between the first and second members. An organism may be introduced into the container and wastewater may be introduced into the container for treatment. The media may be loop cord media. In other aspects, two containers may be provided and wastewater may be initially introduced into a first container for treatment, removed from the first container, and subsequently introduced into the second container for further treatment. A first species of organism may be present in the first container and a second species of organism may be present in the second container. Methods of using these containers are also provided. |
| US08809032B2 |
Exo-specific amylase polypeptides, nucleic acids encoding those polypeptides and uses thereof
This invention relates to amylase polypeptides, and nucleic acids encoding the polypeptides and uses thereof. The amylases of the present invention have been engineered to have more beneficial qualities. Specifically the amylases of the current invention show an altered exospecifity. |
| US08809030B2 |
Perhydrolase variant providing improved specific activity
An acetyl xylan esterase variant having perhydrolytic activity is provided for producing peroxycarboxylic acids from carboxylic acid esters and a source of peroxygen. More specifically, a Thermotoga maritima acetyl xylan esterase gene was modified using error-prone PCR and site-directed mutagenesis to create an enzyme catalyst characterized by an increase in specific activity. The variant acetyl xylan esterase may be used to produce peroxycarboxylic acids suitable for use in a variety of applications such as cleaning, disinfecting, sanitizing, bleaching, wood pulp processing, and paper pulp processing applications. |
| US08809029B2 |
Pond system for algae growth and harvesting
Management of a pond for algae growth and harvesting is facilitated by use of a cover system. The cover system can include one or more types of cover portions for management of various interactions between a pond and an ambient environment, such as management of incident light, thermal management, facilitating product recovery, and management of gas diffusion. The cover system can be used in conjunction with both active and passive mixing devices. |
| US08809028B2 |
Biosynthesis of caffeic acid and caffeic acid derivatives by recombinant microorganisms
Microorganisms are genetically engineered to synthesize caffeic acid from simple carbon sources via a tyrosine intermediate by means of a dual pathway that utilizes both endogenous and engineered enzymatic activities. |
| US08809021B2 |
Monitoring recombinase polymerase amplification mixtures
A process includes providing a mixture that includes a recombinase, a single-strand binding protein, and one or more oligonucleotides; and detecting particles in the reaction mixture. |
| US08809019B2 |
Microorganism expressing aldose-1-epimerase
A transformed microorganism capable of converting an aldopentose to a ketopentose at a higher rate than the equivalent microorganism prior to transformation. |
| US08809015B2 |
Methods and systems for the production of hydrocarbon products
Methods and systems for the production of hydrocarbon products, including providing a substrate comprising CO to a bioreactor containing a culture of one or more micro-organisms; and fermenting the culture in the bioreactor to produce one or more hydrocarbon products. The substrate comprising CO is derived from an industrial process selected from the group comprising steam reforming processes, refinery processes, steam cracking processes, and reverse water gas shift processes. |
| US08809012B2 |
Labeling agent and methods for simultaneous sequencing and quantification of multiple peptides and proteins using the same
The present invention provides a compound that can utilize hydrogen isotope and, at the same time, can quantify multiplexed samples at one time, as well as decreasing the cost for synthesis of the labeling agent. In addition, the present invention provides a novel method for quantitatively analyzing protein and peptide analytes having different quantities form each other using the labeling agent, wherein y-type fragment ions having a high mass which comprises the analyte remained after coupling the labeling agent with the analyte and then removing a part of the labeling agent through tandem mass spectrometry are utilized to conduct the quantitative analysis. |
| US08809005B2 |
Conjugate and its use as a standard in an immunoassay
A composition comprising a conjugate of an anti-idiotype antibody specifically binding to a CDR region of a parent antibody and method of using polyclonal human serum immunoglobulin of class E, G, M, or A, and the use of said composition as a standard in an immunoassay is presented. |
| US08809004B2 |
Detection of feline immunodeficiency virus
Method, device and kit for the detection of antibodies directed to Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV). The method includes contacting the felid biological sample with FIV env polypeptide and detecting whether the polypeptide substantially binds to the antibody in the biological sample. The method will detect FIV antibodies in a sample from animals that have been naturally infected but the method will not detect antibodies in a sample from animals that have not been infected and that have not been vaccinated with an FIV vaccine after within about the previous five to eight weeks. |
| US08809003B2 |
Reduction in false results in assay measurements
Methods and reagents are disclosed for detecting a false result in an assay measurement for determining a concentration of an analyte in a sample suspected of containing the analyte. The method comprises measuring assay signal resulting from background only and measuring assay signal resulting from the presence of analyte in the sample plus background and subtracting the first measurement from the second measurement to determine the concentration of analyte in the sample. For example, a measurement result 1 is determined by means of an assay conducted on a portion of the sample where analyte in the sample is substantially sequestered and a measurement result 2 is determined by means of the assay conducted on an equal portion of the same sample where analyte in the sample is substantially non-sequestered. Measurement result 1 is subtracted from measurement result 2 to determine the concentration of analyte in the sample. |
| US08809001B2 |
High throughput assays for inhibitors and activators of PAQR receptors
The subject invention provides methods of screening compounds or ligands that interact with human and/or non-human PAQR receptors or fungal osmotin receptors. These methods utilize a colorimetric assay to ascertain whether a compound binds to and activates a PAQR receptor or the osmotin receptor. |
| US08808999B2 |
Anti-IGF-IR and/or anti-insulin/IGF-I hybrid receptors antibodies and uses thereof
The present invention relates to methods of identifying IGF-IR modulators and hybrid-R modulators comprising contacting IGF-IR with a humanized anti-IGF-IR antibody and contacting hybrid-R with a humanized anti-hybrid-R antibody, respectively. |
| US08808989B1 |
Methods and apparatus for synthesizing nucleic acids
The invention provides improved methods for synthesizing polynucleotides, such as DNA and RNA, using enzymes and specially designed nucleotide analogs. Using the methods of the invention, specific sequences of polynucleotides can be synthesized de novo, base by base, in an aqueous environment, without the use of a nucleic acid template. Because the nucleotide analogs have an unmodified 3′ OH, i.e., as found in “natural” deoxyribose and ribose molecules, the analogs result in natural polynucleotides suitable for incorporation into biological systems. |
| US08808985B2 |
Susceptibility variants for peripheral arterial disease and abdominal aortic aneurysm
The present invention discloses certain genetic variants as susceptibility variants for peripheral arterial disease (PAD) and abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA). The invention relates to risk management using such variants. The invention further relates to kits for use in risk assessment of PAD and AAA. |
| US08808984B2 |
Method for synthesising templated molecules
The invention relates to a method for synthesizing templated molecules attached to the templated which directed the synthesis thereof. The method involves a template, a scaffold functional entity and a functional entity attached to a building block, which, in turn, is attached the template. The scaffold functional entity and the functional entity of the building block are both provided with complementary dimerization domains allowing the functional entities to come into close proximity when the complementary domains interact with to each other. The method may be used for generating libraries of templated molecules which may be selected for biological activity. |
| US08808981B2 |
Point-of care, medical condition screening kit
A point-of-care, screening kit for use by a heath care worker to create custom test strips for screening the bodily fluids of an individual for various, medical conditions includes: (a) a plurality of reagents (12), (b) a substrate (18) configured to: i) receive one of the reagents and react with it so as to cause it to acquire a first characteristic color, and, ii) upon the addition of the individual's bodily fluid to the substrate, acquire, as a result of the formulation of each of the reagents, a second, dichotomous characteristic color when the individual has a specific one of the various, medical conditions. This kit also includes: (c) a plurality of containers (10) having indicia (26) that are reflective of the reagent within the container and which of the various medical conditions is being screened for with the use of the container and the characteristic first and second colors which are indicative of the individual having a screened for medical condition, and (d) one of the reagents being a protein reagent that includes appropriate quantities of: water, isopropyl alcohol, citric acid monohydrate, sodium citrate iribasic monohydrate, tetrabromophenol blue and tartrazine. |
| US08808980B2 |
Stabilized open form transglutaminase as a diagnostic indictor for autoimmune diseases
The present invention relates to the diagnosis of disorders or dysfunctions characterized by autoimmune responses to the enzyme class of transglutaminases. The present invention provides a novel open structure of the transglutaminases in a stabilized form which renders new epitopes accessible for antibody-binding. |
| US08808978B2 |
System and method for automated platelet wash
A method for washing platelets includes introducing anticoagulant into a platelet product container, drawing re-anticoagulated platelet product from the platelet product container, and introducing it into a centrifuge bowl. The centrifuge bowl separates the platelets from the supernatant in which they are suspended. The method then washes the platelets by introducing wash solution into the centrifuge bowl. As the wash solution is introduced into the bowl, it displaces the supernatant from the bowl and into a waste container. The method then introduces platelet additive solution into the centrifuge bowl, which displaces the wash solution from the centrifuge bowl and into the waste container and further wash the platelets. The method then repeatedly accelerates and decelerates the centrifuge bowl to resuspend the platelets in the platelet additive solution. |
| US08808977B2 |
Method of inactivating virus in circular blood and its applications in treating viral diseases
The present invention relates to a method for illuminating the viruses in a circulatory blood, comprising the following steps of: 1) Adding an anticoagulant into a whole blood source and establishing a circulation system for the whole blood source; 2) Withdrawing the whole blood with the anticoagulant into a plasma-separating device for a separation, when finished, directly pumping the red-blood cells back into the whole blood source and transporting the plasma into a mixing transport pump after the separation; 3) Meanwhile, pumping a photosensitizer methylene blue into the mixing transport pump so that the methylene blue is mixed with the plasma and pumped together into a plasma container; 4) Using an illumination device to illuminate the plasma in the plasma container for virus illumination, and pumping the virus-illuminated plasma into a removing device for removing off the photosensitizer; 5) The methylene blue being absorbed by the removing device and the plasma illuminated being transfused back into the whole blood system; 6) Repeating the step 2 to the step 5 until the virus content in the whole blood source is reduced by 99.99%. The present invention can process blood in a batch, as a pipeline, and can utilize aseptic and disposable sealed systems isolated from the outside environment for processing. The processed plasma flows back into the whole blood source and can be directly transfused into the human body. Still, the invention may be further used to treat virus-diseases such as Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C, AIDS and etc., and to eliminate the viruses of organ transplantation recipient. |
| US08808974B2 |
Method for forming pattern
A method for forming a pattern includes providing a first positive-working radiation-sensitive resin composition on a substrate to form a first resist layer. The first positive-working radiation-sensitive resin composition includes a crosslinking agent, a polymer containing an acid-unstable group and not containing a crosslinking group, a radiation-sensitive acid generator, and a solvent. The first resist layer is exposed selectively to radiation, and developed to form a first resist pattern. The first resist pattern is made inactive to radiation, or insolubilized in an alkaline developer or in a second positive-working radiation-sensitive resin composition. The second positive-working radiation-sensitive resin composition is provided on the substrate to form a second resist layer. The second resist layer is exposed selectively to radiation, and developed to form a second resist pattern in the space area of the first resist pattern. |
| US08808970B2 |
Manufacturing method of semiconductor device
To improve the manufacturing yield of semiconductor devices. Over a semiconductor wafer, a film to be processed is formed; over that film, an antireflection film is formed; and, over the antireflection film, a resist layer is formed. Then, the resist layer is subjected to liquid immersion exposure, and a development and rinsing process to form a resist pattern. After that, the antireflection film and the film to be processed are etched sequentially using the resist pattern as an etching mask. In the development process of the resist layer, the antireflection film is exposed from parts from which the resist layer has been removed by the development process. When performing a rinsing process after the development, the water repellent property of the surface of the antireflection film exposed from the resist layer is not lower than the water repellent property of the surface of the resist layer. |
| US08808958B2 |
Process for preparing polymerized toner
The present invention relates to a process for preparing a polymerized toner, and in particular to a process for preparing a polymerized toner and a polymerized toner prepared therefrom, wherein a certain block copolymer and copper phthalocyanine are used within a predetermined range of the amounts for a carbon black dispersant during a suspension polymerization, thereby making it possible to realize a narrow particle sizes distribution, high transcription efficiency, and an enhanced image concentration. |
| US08808954B2 |
Electrophotographic photoconductor, process cartridge including the same, and image forming apparatus including the same
The present invention provides an electrophotographic photoconductor that can improve unevenness in image density and reduce image defects such as fogging and dots. The electrophotographic photoconductor includes a conductive support, an intermediate layer, and a photosensitive layer. The intermediate layer includes metal oxide particles surface-treated with a titanium chelate compound represented by the following formula (1): Ti(OR)n(L)4-n (1) wherein R at each occurrence independently represents a C1-16 aliphatic hydrocarbon group; L at each occurrence independently represents a ligand derived from a chelating agent selected from the group consisting of β-ketoester represented by the following formula (1a): β-diketone represented by the following formula (1b): and a C3-10 alkylene glycol; n represents an integer of 1 to 3; if n is 2 or more, two Rs may be coupled to each other. |
| US08808951B2 |
Electrophotographic photosensitive body
An object of the present invention is to provide an electrophotographic photosensitive body having improved electrophotographic characteristics such as sensitivity and residual potential and also having excellent durability. The present invention provides an electrophotographic photosensitive body having a layer containing at least one specific p-terphenyl compound and at least one polycarbonate resin represented by the general formula (I): in a mass ratio of the p-terphenyl compound to the polycarbonate resin within the range of 2:8 to 7:3. |
| US08808950B2 |
Electrophotographic photoreceptor, method for manufacturing the same, and electrophotographic photoreceptor unit, replaceable image-forming unit, and image-forming apparatus including the same
An electrophotographic photoreceptor includes a substantially cylindrical support and a coating disposed on the support and including a photosensitive layer. The coating has lines due to polishing extending in a direction crossing a circumferential direction of a surface of the photoreceptor in at least part of a region outside an effective region available for image formation in an axial direction. |
| US08808939B2 |
Fuel cell stack and fuel cell cogeneration system including the same
A fuel cell cogeneration system of the present invention includes: a cell (10); a fuel gas discharging manifold (122) which is formed to extend in a thickness direction of the cell (10) and through which an anode off gas unconsumed in an anode (2A) flows; an oxidizing gas discharging manifold (124) which is formed to extend in the thickness direction of the cell (10) and through which a cathode off gas unconsumed in a cathode (2B) flows; and a cooling medium discharging manifold (126) which is formed to extend in the thickness direction of the cell (10) and through which an off cooling medium having recovered heat from the cell (10) flows, and the fuel gas discharging manifold (122) and/or the oxidizing gas discharging manifold (124) are formed between the cooling medium discharging manifold (126) and a separator end closest to the cooling medium discharging manifold (126). |
| US08808936B2 |
Fuel cell system and method for controlling electric current of same
In a fuel cell system, when an electric current drawn from fuel cells is controlled based on a target power generation value, an upper limit of the electric current is optimally set to make suspensions of operation caused by voltage drops to be as infrequent as possible. The upper limit of the electric current is set by adding a predetermined offset value (e.g., 2 A) to an average value of the electric current before a predetermined delay time (e.g., 10 seconds). Moreover, when the electric current drawn from the fuel cells is controlled based on a target power generation value, the value of the electric current is compared with the upper limit of the electric current, to control the electric current. |
| US08808934B2 |
Low power control of fuel cell open circuit voltage
A fuel cell power plant (5) includes a stack (6) of fuel cells, each of which have an anode (9), a cathode (10), and a PEM (11) disposed between the anode and the cathode. A controller (17) recognizes an indication (67) of no load demand (68) by a load (59), to operate (45) an air recycle loop (44-46) utilizing the process air blower (35) and transfer the power output (57) of the stack from the load (59) to an auxiliary load (60), comprising a resistance which will consume a predetermined small amount of power in response to the current applied thereto, when the stack operates at a critical voltage above which fuel cell corrosion is unacceptable. Fuel and air will also be reduced (16, 40). The controller may cause increased cathode recycle when the critical voltage is reached and increased air when the voltage is a fraction of a volt below the critical voltage. |
| US08808932B2 |
Fuel cell system
A fuel cell system having an adsorber placed in an air supply path to an air electrode of a fuel cell and receiving a chemical filter for adsorbing impurities contained in air; measurement means for measuring the amount per unit time of air having passed the adsorber; detection means for detecting the density of impurities contained in the air, whose volume has been measured by the measurement means, before it enters the adsorber; estimation means for estimating, based on the amount of the air, the density of the impurities, and adsorption efficiency of the chemical filter, the amount of the impurities adsorbed per unit time by the chemical filter; and output control means for causing a signal to output when an accumulated value of the amount of the impurity exceeds a predetermined level. |
| US08808930B2 |
Liquid air electrode for metal-air battery and metal-air battery provided with same
Provided are a liquid air electrode for a metal-air battery that has superior discharge capacity and includes an electrolyte solution and an electrically conductive material, the electrically conductive material being dispersed in the electrolyte solution, and a metal-air battery that includes the liquid air electrode. |
| US08808929B2 |
Metal-air cell comprising an electrolyte with a room temperature ionic liquid and hygroscopic additive
An electrochemical cell comprising an electrolyte comprising water and a hydrophobic ionic liquid comprising positive ions and negative ions. The electrochemical cell also includes an air electrode configured to absorb and reduce oxygen. A hydrophilic or hygroscopic additive modulates the hydrophobicity of the ionic liquid to maintain a concentration of the water in the electrolyte is between 0.001 mol % and 25 mol %. |
| US08808928B2 |
Fuel cell, method for operating the same, and electronic device
Provided is a fuel cell having a structure in which a cathode and an anode face each other with a proton conductor therebetween. In this fuel cell, an oxygen reductase or the like is immobilized on at least the cathode, and the cathode is composed of a material having pores therein such as porous carbon. In this fuel cell, the volume of water contained in the cathode is controlled to be 70% or less of the volume of the pores of the cathode, whereby a high current value can be stably obtained through optimization of the amount of moisture contained in the cathode when an enzyme is immobilized on at least the cathode. Also provided is a method for operating the fuel cell. |
| US08808927B2 |
Nonaqueous electrolyte lithium secondary battery
A lithium secondary battery comprises an anode capable of intercalating or disintercalating lithium ions, a cathode configured with a lithium-containing oxide, and a nonaqueous electrolyte solution. The lithium-containing oxide comprises a lithium nickel based oxide. The nonaqueous electrolyte solution comprises vinyl ethylene carbonate (VEC) and a mono-nitrile compound. This lithium secondary battery solves the deterioration of charge/discharge cycle characteristics caused by a lithium nickel based oxide used for a cathode, and also controls the decomposition reaction of electrolyte to solve the swelling phenomenon even though the battery is stored at a high temperature or charged/discharged in a fully-charged state, thereby improving high-temperature life characteristics. |
| US08808915B2 |
Rechargeable lithium battery
The rechargeable lithium battery includes a positive electrode which includes a positive active material, a negative electrode, and an electrolyte which includes a non-aqueous organic solvent and a lithium salt. The positive active material includes a core including at least one of a compound represented by Formula 1 and a compound represented by Formula 2, and a surface-treatment layer which is formed on the core and includes a compound represented by Formula 3. The lithium salt includes LiPF6 and a lithium imide-based compound. LiaNibCocMndMeO2 (1) LihMn2MiO4 (2) M′xPyOz (3) wherein each of M and M′ is independently selected from the group consisting of an alkali metal, an alkaline-earth metal, a Group 13 element, a Group 14 element, a transition element, a rare earth element, and combinations thereof, 0.95≦a≦1.1, 0≦b≦0.999, 0≦c≦0.999, 0≦d≦0.999, 0.001≦e≦0.2, 0.95≦h≦1.1, 0.001≦i≦0.2, 1≦y≦4, 0≦y≦7, and 2≦z≦30. |
| US08808909B2 |
Lithium ion batteries using discrete carbon nanotubes, methods for production thereof and products obtained therefrom
Compositions, and methods of obtaining them, useful for lithium ion batteries comprising discrete oxidized carbon nanotubes having attached to their surface lithium ion active materials in the form of nanometer sized crystals or layers. The composition can further comprise graphene or oxygenated graphene. |
| US08808907B2 |
Battery module
Disclosed is a battery module which comprises a cell unit that comprises cells, and a case that contains the cell unit. The case comprises: a first member which has a first guide portion, and a second member which has a second guide portion that is fitted into the first guide portion by being slid on the first guide portion. |
| US08808906B2 |
Canal hearing devices and batteries for use with same
Hearing devices configured to fit within the bony portion of the ear canal and batteries that may be used with same. |
| US08808899B2 |
Cell case and structure for attaching cell case
A cell case is provided which maintains cell temperature low by reducing heat reception during no power generation, while ensuring heat dissipation performance during generating power, and which is capable of suppressing reduction of cell capacity due to thermal degradation. A structure for attaching the cell case is also provided. The cell case has a sealed structure and houses a battery module. The cell case has a supporting mechanism which forms a space between the outer surface of the battery module and the inner surface of the case. A first cover layer has a radiation emissivity larger than that of the outer surface of the battery module and is disposed on the outer surface of the cell module. A second cover layer has a radiation emissivity larger than that of the inner surface of the case and is disposed on the inner surface of the case. |
| US08808897B2 |
Electrode structure of vanadium redox flow battery
An electrode structure of a vanadium redox flow battery is disclosed, which includes a proton-exchange membrane, two graphite papers, two graphite felt units, two pads, two graphite polar plates, two metal plates and a lock-fixing device which are symmetrically stacked in sequence from center to outside. wherein each graphite polar plate has the flow channels with a grooved structure, and each graphite felt unit is embedded in the flow channels of one of the graphite polar plates, and then the graphite felt units are covered by the graphite papers such that the different electrolytes flow in their corresponding flow channels. The storage tanks of vanadium electrolyte are connected through the connection pipelines, and the redox reaction is performed through the flows of the vanadium electrolyte. The electrode structure of the vanadium redox flow battery can be stacked for forming a large-scale electrode structure to increase the electrical power. |
| US08808894B2 |
Battery tray retaining system
A battery tray can include a deck, first and second longitudinal and side walls and a clamping member. The walls can extend from the deck and cooperate with each other to form a container area for receiving one of a first and a second battery, where the first battery has a longer length than the second battery. The second longitudinal and side walls can include respective first and second battery hold down members each having a rib for engaging one of the first and second batteries. The first longitudinal and side walls can include respective first and second ramped members for urging at least the first battery into engagement with the battery hold down members. The first clamping member can be removably coupled to the battery tray relative to one of the first longitudinal or side walls and can engage the first or second battery positioned on the deck. |
| US08808886B2 |
Battery management system and method thereof, and power storage apparatus using the same
A battery management system is disclosed. The system includes a variable discharge resistor and a temperature measuring unit to measure the temperature of the discharge resistor. The resistance of the discharge resistor is modified based at least in part on the measured temperature. |
| US08808885B2 |
Voltage sensing member and battery module employed with the same
Disclosed herein is a battery module configured in a structure in which two or more battery cells, each of which has electrode terminals formed at one end or opposite ends thereof, are stacked in a state in which the battery cells are electrically connected to each other, wherein the electrode terminals of the battery cells are formed of plate-shaped conductive members, the electrode terminals of the battery cells are folded such that the electrode terminals are in tight contact with each other to form a bent connection part at an electrical connection region between the battery cells, and the bent connection part is surrounded by a voltage sensing member mounted to the bent connection part. |
| US08808883B2 |
Secondary battery pack of compact structure
Disclosed herein is a secondary battery pack including a battery cell having an electrode assembly mounted in a battery case together with an electrolyte, a protection circuit module (PCM) having a protection circuit for controlling overcharge, overdischarge, and overcurrent of the battery cell, an insulative mounting member mounted to a top cap of the battery cell, and an insulative cap coupled to the upper end of the battery cell, wherein the top cap is provided with at least one protrusion-type electrode terminal, and the top cap is provided at a partial region where the protrusion-type electrode terminal is not formed with a space (depression space) depressed downward by a predetermined depth. The insulative mounting member is provided with a through-hole (a first through-hole) corresponding to the protrusion-type electrode terminal and a through-hole (a second through-hole) corresponding to the depression space, the PCM is provided with a coupling through-hole corresponding to the first through-hole, and the coupling of the insulative mounting member and the PCM to the battery cell is achieved by successively fixedly inserting the protrusion-type electrode terminal through the first through-hole of the insulative mounting member and the coupling through-hole of the PCM. |
| US08808880B2 |
Condensed-cyclic compound, organic light-emitting device comprising the same, and flat panel display apparatus
A condensed-cyclic compound represented by Formula 1 below, an organic light-emitting device including the same, and a flat panel display apparatus including the organic light-emitting device: wherein, X, Y, A1, A2, L1, L2, L3, Ar1, R1, R2, R3, R4, R5, R6, a, b, c, d, e, f, and g are described in the detailed description of the invention. The organic light-emitting device including an organic layer including the compound above has low driving voltage, high emission efficiency, and long lifetime. |
| US08808878B2 |
Compound and use thereof
A compound according to the present invention is represented by the general formula (1): as defined herein. This makes it possible to provide (i) a novel compound that exhibits a practically sufficient light-emitting property not only in a case where the novel compound is used as a luminescent dopant, but also in a case where the novel compound is used solely, and (ii) use of the novel compound. |
| US08808875B2 |
Compound and organic EL device
The present invention provides a high-performance organic EL device and a novel compound used for the device. The novel compound of the present invention is a fluoranthene compound having the following general formula (2): The organic EL device of the present invention is an organic EL device comprising: an anode; a cathode; and an organic compound layer interposed between the anode and the cathode, wherein the organic compound layer has the fluoranthene compound. |
| US08808874B2 |
Organic electroluminescent element, illuminator and display
An organic electroluminescent element containing an anode and a cathode having therebetween a light emitting layer, wherein the light emitting layer contains a guest compound having a substructure represented by Formula (AA): wherein A represents a group of atoms necessary to form an aromatic hydrocarbon ring or an aromatic heterocycle, B represents a group of atoms necessary to form a 5-membered aromatic heterocycle containing nitrogen or a 5-membered heterocycle containing nitrogen and M represents Ir or Pt, and a host compound represented by Formula (1): |
| US08808873B2 |
Carrier-attached copper foil and method for manufacturing the same
In an embodiment of the invention, a method for manufacturing a carrier-attached copper foil is provided. The method includes providing a carrier foil including stainless steel, titanium, aluminum, nickel or alloy thereof with a surface oxide layer, and forming a copper foil onto the carrier foil to prepare the carrier-attached copper foil. |
| US08808870B2 |
Functionally graded coating
In one aspect, composite articles are described comprising multifunctional coatings. A composite article described herein, in some embodiments, comprises a substrate and a coating adhered to the substrate, the coating comprising an inner layer and an outer layer, the inner layer comprising a presintered metal or alloy and the outer layer comprising particles disposed in a metal or alloy matrix. |
| US08808867B2 |
Alumina forming bimetallic tube for refinery process furnaces and method of making and using
Provided is a bimetallic tube for transport of hydrocarbon feedstocks in refinery process furnaces, and more particularly in furnace radiant coils, including: i) an outer tube layer being formed from carbon steels or low chromium steels comprising less than 15.0 wt. % Cr based on the total weight of the steel; ii) an inner tube layer being formed from an alumina forming bulk alloy including 5.0 to 10.0 wt. % of Al, 20.0 wt. % to 25.0 wt. % Cr, less than 0.4 wt. % Si, and at least 35.0 wt. % Fe with the balance being Ni, wherein the inner tube layer is formed plasma powder welding the alumina forming bulk alloy on the inner surface of the outer tube layer; and iii) an oxide layer formed on the surface of the inner tube layer, wherein the oxide layer is substantially comprised of alumina, chromia, silica, mullite, spinels, or mixtures thereof. |
| US08808866B2 |
Coated elastomeric article and method for making a coated elastomeric article
An elastomeric article, such as a glove or a condom, is coated with a compound containing silicone, collagen and allantoin. |
| US08808860B2 |
3-dimensional nanostructure having nanomaterials stacked on graphene substrate and fabrication method thereof
The present invention relates to a 3-dimensional nanostructure having nanomaterials stacked on a graphene substrate; and more specifically, to a 3-dimensional nanostructure having at least one nanomaterial selected from nanotubes, nanowires, nanorods, nanoneedles and nanoparticles grown on a reduced graphene substrate. The present invention enables the achievement of a synergy effect of the 3-dimensional nanostructure hybridizing 1-dimensional nanomaterials and 2-dimensional graphene. The nanostructure according to the present invention is excellent in flexibility and elasticity, and can easily be transferred to any substrate having a non-planar surface. Also, all junctions in nanomaterials, a metal catalyst and a graphene film system form the ohmic electrical contact, which allows the nanostructure to easily be incorporated into a field-emitting device. |
| US08808859B1 |
Polycrystalline diamond compact including pre-sintered polycrystalline diamond table having a thermally-stable region and applications therefor
In an embodiment, a polycrystalline diamond compact (“PDC”) comprises a substrate and a pre-sintered polycrystalline diamond (“PCD”) table including a plurality of bonded diamond grains defining a plurality of interstitial regions, an upper surface, and a back surface that is bonded to the substrate. The pre-sintered PCD table includes a first thermally-stable region extending inwardly from the upper surface, and a second region located between the first thermally-stable region and the substrate. The second region exhibits a thermal stability that is less than that of the first thermally-stable region, and includes at least one interstitial constituent disposed interstitially between the bonded diamond grains thereof. The at least one interstitial constituent may include at least one silicon-containing phase. |
| US08808856B2 |
Apparatus and method for producing carbon film using plasma CVD and carbon film
Provided is a method for uniformly producing a carbon film at a low cost with low power consumption. The method for producing a carbon film, including: a step of disposing a cylindrical member having an opening in part thereof in a vacuum chamber; a step of disposing a substrate inside the cylindrical member; a step of introducing a gas for carbon film production into the vacuum chamber; and a step of applying a voltage for plasma generation to the cylindrical member to thereby generate a plasma in the cylindrical member and to produce the carbon film on the surface of the substrate by the plasma. |
| US08808855B2 |
Composites of inorganic microparticles having a phosphated surface and alkaline earth carbonate nanoparticles
The present invention relates to composites comprising inorganic micro pigments and/or fillers in the form of surface-phosphated microparticles, whose surface is at least partially coated with finely divided with alkaline earth carbonate nanoparticles by means of binders based on copolymers comprising as the monomers one or more dicarboxylic acids and one or more monomers from the group of diamines, triamines, dialkanolamines or trialkanolamines and epichlorohydrin, a method for producing such composites, aqueous slurries thereof and the use thereof in papermaking or in the field of production of paints and plastics as well as the use of the binders for the coating of microparticles with nano alkaline earth carbonate. |
| US08808852B2 |
Process for controlling fatigue debit of a coated article
A process for controlling fatigue debit when coating an article includes the steps of: cleaning at least one surface of an article including a structural material; depositing a bond coat material upon at least one cleaned surface of the article to form a bond coat layer substantially free of the structural material; depositing an oxidation resistant material in the presence of an activator upon the bond coat layer at a temperature range from about 1,775° F. (968° C.) to about 1,825° F. (996° C.) to form an additive layer substantially free of the structural material; and wherein the bond coat layer and the additive layer together form a thin film, oxidation resistant coating having a thickness of at least about 0.5 mils. |
| US08808851B2 |
Multi-layered composite crystalline colloidal array films
A multi-layered composite material is disclosed, which includes an ordered periodic array of particles held in a matrix composition. The composite material further includes inorganic nanosized particles infused into the array of particles. |
| US08808849B2 |
Composites of inorganic microparticles having a phosphated surface and alkaline earth carbonate nanoparticles
The present invention relates to composites comprising inorganic micro pigments and/or fillers in the form of surface-phosphated microparticles, whose surface is at least partially coated with finely divided with alkaline earth carbonate nanoparticles by means of binders based on copolymers comprising as the monomers one or more dicarboxylic acids and one or more monomers from the group of diamines, triamines, dialkanolamines or trialkanolamines and epichlorohydrin, a method for producing such composites, aqueous slurries thereof and the use thereof in papermaking or in the field of production of paints and plastics as well as the use of the binders for the coating of microparticles with nano alkaline earth carbonate. |
| US08808847B2 |
Layered composite component
A layered composite component is disclosed, the component including: a plurality of stacked layers defining a component thickness between opposed component surfaces and at least one reinforcing element extending from each of the opposed component surfaces the reinforcing elements extending at least partially through the component thickness. Another layered composite component is also disclosed, the component including: a plurality of stacked layers defining a plane and having a primary in-plane axis, wherein the at least one block array of reinforcing elements extends into the component along a reinforcing direction that is angled with respect to the plane of the stacked layers, and wherein the at least one block array is angled in the plane of the stacked layers with respect to the primary axis. |
| US08808843B2 |
Transparent multilayer sheet having electrostatic dissipative properties
Disclosed is a transparent multilayer sheet that is excellent in antistatic properties, as well as transparency. The transparent multilayer sheet includes a surface layer comprising a conductive thermoplastic polyurethane or polyurea resin containing ethylene oxide; and a back layer attached to the surface layer and comprising a transparent non-conductive polymer resin. Preferably, the polyurethane or polyurea resin is a polymerization product of (a) a polyether-based polymer containing ethylene oxide and reacting with an isocyanate group; (b) an aromatic or aliphatic diisocyanate compound; and (c) a chain extender C2 to C10 containing a primary hydroxyl group or an amine group, and the transparent non-conductive polymer resin is selected from the group consisting of polyethylene terephthalate, glycol modified polyethylene tereph-thalate, glycol modified polycyclohexaneterephthalate, polymethylmethacrylate, polycarbonate, transparent acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene (ABS), and mixtures thereof. |
| US08808837B2 |
Flexible film and display device comprising the same
A flexible film is provided. The flexible film includes a dielectric film, a metal layer disposed on the dielectric film, and at least one hole formed through the dielectric film and the metal layer. Therefore, it is possible to facilitate the alignment of circuit patterns on a flexible film with an electrode of a panel of a display device or a circuit of a driving unit of a display device. |
| US08808836B2 |
Honeycomb structure
A honeycomb structure has hexagonal cells surrounded by partition walls and a cylindrical outer peripheral wall covering the honeycomb structure. The partition walls have sides and intersection points. Six sides form a hexagonal cell. Three sides as the partition walls are joined to each other at a corresponding intersection point. The sides are divided into sides of basic partition walls and strength reinforcement sides as strength reinforcement partition walls. The strength reinforcement partition wall is thicker than the basic partition wall. Three strength reinforcement sides are joined at a corresponding strength reinforcement intersection point. Each strength reinforcement side in one group joined at one strength reinforcement intersection point is not connected continuously to each strength reinforcement side in another group joined at another strength reinforcement intersection point. The strength reinforcement intersection points are arranged on an entire surface of a radial cross section of the honeycomb structure. |
| US08808835B2 |
System including a panel assembly having a container and a compression-molded, composite cover for covering the container
A system including a panel assembly having a container and a compression-molded, composite cover for covering the container is provided. The system may be a flooring system such as a vehicle flooring system and the assembly may be a floor panel assembly. The assembly includes at least one load-bearing component positioned between a lower outer layer of the cover and a bottom wall of the container in a closed position of the cover. Each component is bonded or joined to the outer layer and is in abutting engagement with the bottom wall in the closed position of the cover to transfer a load appearing at an outer surface of an upper outer layer of the cover to the bottom wall of the container. The system also includes a structure such as floor having a cavity for receiving the panel assembly. |
| US08808834B2 |
Sandwich-type, structural, composite panel having a pattern of depressions formed at a lower outer surface thereof and stiffening supports received and retained therein
A sandwich-type, structural, composite panel having a pattern of depressions formed at a lower outer surface thereof and stiffening supports received and retained therein is provided. The panel includes a first outer layer having a first outer surface, a second outer layer having a second outer surface and a core positioned between the outer layers and having a large number of cavities. The outer layers are bonded to the core by press molding. Crushed portions of the panel having a reduced thickness form the pattern of depressions at the second outer surface of the second outer layer. The stiffening supports are bonded or joined to the second outer layer within the pattern of depressions. The stiffening supports are sized, shaped and arranged within the pattern of depressions to provide the panel with strength to resist deflection from a load at various positions and orientations at the first outer surface. |
| US08808833B2 |
Compression-molded composite component having a sandwich structure and having integrally formed strengthening structures
A compression-molded, composite component having a sandwich structure and having integrally formed strengthening structures is disclosed. The component includes a first outer layer having an outer surface, a second outer layer, and a core positioned between the outer layers and having a large number of cavities. The outer layers are bonded to the core by press molding. Portions of at least one of the outer layers are sized, shaped and arranged laterally adjacent to each other in a pattern to provide the component with strength to resist deflection from a load at various positions and orientations at the outer surface. |
| US08808830B2 |
Sandwich-type, structural, composite component having a cut-out feature with a substantially hidden core, assembly utilizing same and panel for use in a vehicle load floor assembly
A sandwich-type, structural, composite component having a cut-out feature with a substantially hidden core, assembly utilizing same and panel for use in a vehicle load floor assembly are disclosed. The component includes a first outer layer, a second outer layer and a core positioned between the outer layers and having a large number of cavities. The outer layers are bonded to the core by press molding. An interior portion of the component enclosed by the rest of the component is locally crushed by the press molding to form at least one depression. A cut-out extends completely through the component at the interior portion of the component. Side surfaces of the at least one depression substantially hide the core at the cut-out without compromising the structural integrity of the component. |
| US08808829B2 |
Assembly including a compression-molded, composite panel locally reinforced adjacent a living hinge of the assembly
A panel assembly including a compression-molded, composite panel is provided. The panel has first and second outer layers and a core positioned between the outer layers. The core has a large number of cavities. The outer layers are bonded to the core by press molding. The assembly also includes a component pivotally connected to the panel and a living hinge which allows the component to pivot about a pivot axis between different use positions relative to the panel. The assembly further includes a stiffening support having a support axis substantially parallel to the pivot axis. The support is bonded or joined to the panel to locally reinforce the panel adjacent the living hinge. The stiffening support eliminates the need for a metal hinge and provides for a light weight assembly with improved aesthetics and function. |
| US08808826B2 |
System for forming floor underlayment
A process for making a fibrous panel member. The process includes mixing a porous fiber material with a MDI adhesive. The fiber batt is compressed between a pair of porous belts. Steam and heat are applied to the compressed batt to form a bound flexible batting material. |
| US08808815B2 |
Inkjet-receptive article
An inkjet-receptive article comprising a substrate having a coating thereon comprising a vinyl lactam polymer or copolymer and a polymer resin diluent coated from a solvent. A preferred vinyl lactam copolymer is polyvinylcaprolactam (PVCap)—vinyl acetate (VA). Also disclosed are solvent-based compositions for forming an inkjet-receptive coating on a substrate comprising: (i) a vinyl lactam polymer or copolymer; (ii) a solvent; (iii) optionally, a pigment; and (iv) polymer resin diluent. |
| US08808814B2 |
Liquid crystal composition and liquid crystal display device
The liquid crystal composition includes a specific two-ring compound having a large optical anisotropy and a small viscosity as a first component, a specific three-ring compound having a high maximum temperature and a large dielectric anisotropy as a second component, and a specific compound having a large dielectric anisotropy as a third component, and may include a specific compound having a small viscosity as a fourth component, a specific three-ring compound having a large optical anisotropy and a large dielectric anisotropy as a fifth component, and a specific compound having a large dielectric anisotropy as a sixth component, and the liquid crystal display device contains this composition. |
| US08808812B2 |
Oriented carbon nanotube manufacturing method
Disclosed is a method capable of accelerating the growth of oriented carbon nanotubes when manufacturing the oriented carbon nanotubes by a plasma CVD. Under the circulation of a gas which is the raw material of the carbon nanotubes, plasma is generated by an antenna (6) provided in a depressurized treatment chamber (2), and substrates (9, 15) provided with a reaction prevention layer and a catalyst material layer which are formed on a base material are held at a distance, to which a radical can reach and an attack of an ion generated as a by-product of the radical can be avoided, from a plasma generation area (7). The tip (6a) of the antenna (6) can be controlled so as to match with the position of the anti-node of a stationary wave (27) of microwaves. |
| US08808811B2 |
Process and apparatus for a nanovoided article
A process and apparatus for producing a nanovoided article, a nanovoided coating, and a low refractive index coating is described. The process includes providing a first solution of a polymerizable material in a solvent; at least partially polymerizing the polymerizable material to form a composition that includes an insoluble polymer matrix and a second solution, wherein the insoluble polymer matrix includes a plurality of nanovoids that are filled with the second solution; and removing a major portion of the solvent from the second solution. An apparatus for the process is also described, and includes a webline, a coating section, a partial polymerization section, and a solvent removal section. |
| US08808803B2 |
Coating method for reactive metal
A coating method includes depositing substantially pure hafnium metal, that is free of other elements that are present in more than trace amounts as inadvertent impurities, onto a metallic substrate, and heat treating the metallic substrate to react the hafnium metal with at least one other element to form a protective coating on the metallic substrate. |
| US08808802B2 |
Method for preparing a coating resistant to contact corrosion on the surface of titanium alloy
The invention relates to a method for preparing a coating resistant to contact corrosion on the surface of titanium alloy, which comprises the following steps: 1. carrying out degreasing and derusting to a titanium alloy part; 2. carrying out etching treatment on the titanium alloy part; 3. carrying out surface activation treatment on the titanium alloy part; 4. preheating the titanium alloy part in an atmosphere protection furnace; 5. immersing the preheated titanium alloy part in plating solution; and 6. carrying out diffusion treatment on the immersion-plated titanium alloy part in a vacuum furnace whereby atoms at the interface diffuse to form a diffusion layer on a substrate and thus form a plating diffusion composite layer on the surface of the titanium alloy part. The part treated by the method completely solves the problem of contact corrosion of titanium alloy contacting with aluminum alloy and steel material. |
| US08808801B2 |
Method of preparing zinc oxide nanorods on a substrate by chemical spray pyrolysis
A method of preparing nanostructured zinc oxide layers on a substrate by chemical spray pyrolysis at moderate deposition temperatures from 350.degree. C. to 600.degree. C. is disclosed. An aqueous or aqueous alcoholic solution comprising zinc chloride or zinc acetate as precursors is prepared and sprayed onto the preheated substrate so that the precursor reacts to form zinc oxide layer on the substrate. Thiourea or urea may be also added to the solution. Glass, silicon, or metal oxide covered glass can be used as the substrate. |
| US08808796B1 |
Method of pretreating aluminum assemblies for improved adhesive bonding and corrosion resistance
A system and a method for pretreating an aluminum assembly includes selecting a blank having a thin film pretreatment layer and a lubricant coating applied to a surface. The blank is formed to a desired shape and an adhesive is applied to a selected portion of the surface. A cleaner is applied to the assembly to remove the thin film pretreatment layer and the lubricant coating from the surface except at the selected portion and a zirconium oxide conversion coating is applied to the assembly before painting. |
| US08808795B2 |
Method of producing laminate film
A method of producing a laminate film includes coating a support with coating solutions with at least two monolayer extrusion dies to provide layers. A difference in solubility parameter between the coating solution and a solute in the adjoining layer ≧0.1 for respective coating solutions. Viscosity of the downstream side die coating solution is lower than that of an upstream side die. Each coating solution has a Capillary number Ca<1.7. A difference in surface tension |σ2−σ1| between the adjoining layers satisfies |σ2−σ1|>0.5 [mN/m], where σ1, σ2 are surface tensions of coating solution from upstream and downstream side dies, respectively. A ratio of a coating thickness h1 [μm] of the coating solution for an upper layer and a distance L [μm] of the upper layer from the support surface satisfies h1/L<0.14. Distance between discharge nozzles is ≧1 mm and ≦700 mm. |
| US08808792B2 |
Carbon nanotube conductor with enhanced electrical conductivity
A method includes the steps of receiving a conductor element formed from a plurality of carbon nanotubes; and exposing the conductor element to a controlled amount of a dopant so as to increase the conductance of the conductor element to a desired value, wherein the dopant is one of bromine, iodine, chloroauric acid, hydrochloric acid, hydroiodic acid, nitric acid, and potassium tetrabromoaurate. A method includes the steps of receiving a conductor element formed from a plurality of carbon nanotubes; and exposing the conductor element to a controlled amount of a dopant solution comprising one of chloroauric acid, hydrochloric acid, nitric acid, and potassium tetrabromoaurate, so as to increase the conductance of the conductor element to a desired value. |
| US08808791B2 |
Method for strengthening adhesion between dielectric layers formed adjacent to metal layers
A method is provided which includes forming a metal layer and converting at least a portion of the metal layer to a hydrated metal oxide layer. Another method is provided which includes selectively depositing a dielectric layer upon another dielectric layer and selectively depositing a metal layer adjacent to the dielectric layer. Consequently, a microelectronic topography is formed which includes a metal feature and an adjacent dielectric portion comprising lower and upper layers of hydrophilic and hydrophobic material, respectively. A topography including a metal feature having a single layer with at least four elements lining a lower surface and sidewalls of the metal feature is also provided herein. The fluid/s used to form such a single layer may be analyzed by test equipment configured to measure the concentration of all four elements. In some cases, the composition of the fluid/s may be adjusted based upon the analysis. |
| US08808790B2 |
Method for manufacturing a submillimetric electrically conductive grid coated with an overgrid
A method of manufacturing a submillimetric electroconductive grid coated with an overgrid on a substrate includes: the production of a mask having submillimetric openings by the deposition of a solution of colloidal polymeric nanoparticles that are stabilized and dispersed in a solvent, the polymeric particles having a glass transition temperature Tg and the drying of the masking layer at a temperature below the Tg until the mask, with straight edges, is obtained, the formation of the electroconductive grid by a deposition of electroconductive material, referred to as grid material, a heat treatment of the masking layer with the grid material at a temperature greater than or equal to 0.8 times Tg, thus creating a space between the edges of mask zones and the lateral edges of the grid; a deposition of a layer, referred to as an overlayer, made of a material referred to as overlayer material, on the grid and in the space between the edges of mask zones and the lateral edges of the grid; a removal of the masking layer. The invention also relates to the grid thus obtained. |
| US08808787B2 |
Method for producing different populations of molecules or fine particles with arbitrary distribution forms and distribution densities simultaneously and in quantity, and masking member therefor
The formation in quantity of various different populations of a substance being studied with multiple combinations of distribution form and distribution density by dripping a suspension of a single concentration of the substance onto a masking member of a certain specified structure placed on a substrate by making use of the sedimentation of said substance.A method to form populations of fine particles or molecules on a substrate by specifying the distribution form and distribution surface density, wherein a masking member provided with parallel through-holes and having a tilted wall structure to achieve the target distribution form and distribution density is prepared; a solution or a suspension of the substance being studied is dripped onto said masking member; and the substance settles through the region defined by the tilted wall structure of the masking member; and the result is that the substance settles along the tilted wall structure and passes through the region bounded by the upper boundary of said wall structure and deposits onto the substrate in the area bounded by the lower boundary of the wall structure. |
| US08808785B1 |
Rice delight
The invention is a high fiber puffed rice snack food that may be hand made using unique steps that include fully cooking white rice (rice endosperm), drying the white rice, and then frying the dry white rice. The process produces a unique form of puffed rice that has a distinctive unique flavor and appearance. When long grain white rice is used the puffed rice product is more fluffy and puffy product as compared to when medium grain or short grain white rice are used. The medium grain white rice product tends to have a firmer texture, and the short grain white rice tends to be sticker. After the product is fried it may be flavored with salt, with syrup, or with other desired flavorings or additives. |
| US08808782B2 |
Durum wheat pasta with high alimentary bran content and process for the production thereof
A durum wheat pasta containing bran, wherein the bran has a total fiber content comprised between 30 and 36% and a protein content comprised between 15 and 19% (% in weight of the total weight of the bran); such pasta preferably has a bran content comprised between 5 and 30% and is produced by a process which comprises the steps of a) subjecting durum wheat caryopses (101) to sequential abrasion process phases in order to substantially remove the bran coating, thereby obtaining different bran fractions, the latter of which (D) originates from the removal of the aleurone, nucellar and testa layers; b) adding the latter bran fraction (D) to a durum wheat semolina (S) substantially free of bran in a quantity such to obtain a mixture (C) containing from 5 to 30% of the total weight of bran fraction (D); c) producing the pasta by means of conventional techniques starting from said mixture (C); the invention furthermore refers to a durum wheat semolina composition having a fiber content comprised between 30 and 36% and a protein content comprised between 15 and 19% and to a process for its production. |
| US08808778B2 |
Method of using a multi-layer brewing cup
In an embodiment of the described technology, a multi-chamber cup is used to brew coffee or other (hot) drink in a brewing machine. Such a device allows one to add any coffee, but use all the features of an automated single-cup or multi-cup brewing machine. The multi-chamber cup has an inner cup, an intermediate cup, and an outer cup each having sides with circular cross-sections between a top side and bottom side, defining an inner cavity there-between, each with a lip at a top side of the respective cup, extending outwards from a respective inner cavity of each cup. This allows water to enter and flow through multiple cups (at least three) before exiting the multi-chamber cup, such that the liquid becomes homogenized with dissolved particulate solid matter to produce a flavorful, high-quality drink. |
| US08808775B2 |
Method and apparatus for cartridge-based carbonation of beverages
Systems, methods and cartridges for carbonating a precursor liquid, such as water, to form a beverage. A carbon dioxide source can be provided in a cartridge which is used to generate carbon dioxide gas that is dissolved into the precursor liquid. A beverage medium, such as a powdered drink mix or liquid syrup, may be provided in the same, or a separate cartridge as the carbon dioxide source and mixed with the precursor liquid to form a beverage. The use of one or more cartridges for the carbon dioxide source and/or beverage medium may make for an easy to use and mess-free system for making carbonated beverages, e.g., in the consumer's home. |
| US08808770B2 |
Combination of unsaponifiable lipids combined with polyphenols and/or catechins for the protection, treatment and repair of cartilage in joints of humans and animals
The present invention relates to a composition and a kit for the protection, treatment and repair of cartilage in humans and animal joints. The composition or kit contains a combination of unsaponifiable lipids together with one or more of polyphenols and/or catechins. Preferably, the composition or kit contains avocado:soybean unsaponifiables (ASU) and green tea. |
| US08808769B2 |
Method for extraction of fractions containing pharmacologically active ingredients with less cytotoxicity from one or more plants
A method of obtaining one or more fractions from one or more plants is disclosed. The method includes subjecting one or more parts of the one or more plants to hydro-alcoholic extraction in presence of a water-insoluble solvent to obtain one or more extracts. The method further includes subjecting the one or more extracts to one or more of de-pigmentation, de-fatting and detoxification process to obtain the one or more fractions. The one or more fractions thus obtained contain a desired pharmacologically active ingredient in concentration greater than concentrations of other pharmacologically active ingredients present in the at least one fraction. Further, the one or more fractions are less toxic as compared with corresponding one or more fractions obtained by conventional methods. In addition, the one or more fractions are therapeutically more effective in various diseases as compared to one or more fractions obtained by conventional methods. |
| US08808756B2 |
Copper containing algicidal compounds
The present application is directed to a coating composition comprising a ceramic binder and inorganic copper compound particles. Generally, the inorganic copper compound particles have a median particle size of less than 5 micrometers. In some embodiments, the particles have a median particle size of greater than 1 micrometer. The inorganic copper compound particles may be non-photocatalytic. The coating may also be placed on a structural layer. |
| US08808755B2 |
Hydrogen peroxide-based skin disinfectant
A skin disinfectant in ready-to-use concentrated liquid or dry powdered form. Ready-to-use liquid forms have a pH of from about 2 to about 6 and include: (a) hydrogen peroxide in a concentration of from about 0.01 to about 4% w/w of the solution; (b) at least one surfactant chosen from imidazoline derivatives, alkyl betaines, alkyl amidopropyl betaine amides, alkyl amidopropyl betaines, alkylsulfo betaines, amine oxides and derivatives thereof in a concentration of from about 0.01 to about 15% w/w of the solution; (c) at least one hydrogen peroxide stabilizer in a concentration of from about 0.01 to about 4% w/w of the solution; (d) at least one member chosen from cyclic carboxylic acids and salts thereof in a concentration of from about 0.01 to about 4% w/w of the solution; and (e) at least one skin conditioning agent in a concentration of from about 0.01 to about 10% w/w of the solution. |
| US08808754B2 |
Methods for the treatment of wounds
A method of treatment of a wound, said method comprising the step of injecting an effective amount of an oxygen-containing fluid into said wound at a location below a surface of said wound, said step of injecting being carried out through a conduit having one or more outlets for said fluid, wherein substantially all of said outlets are positioned below the surface of the wound during said step of injecting. Injection of oxygen directly into the wound tissue below the wound surface provides enhanced wound healing. |
| US08808746B2 |
Sustained-release microspheres and methods of making and using same
Provided, among other things, are compositions and methods for making sustained-release microspheres, as well as a microsphere delivery system for the sustained release of an active agent. The microsphere delivery system comprises a homogeneous mixture of biodegradable polymer, active agent, and a so-called release-modifying agent (including a pH-stabilizing agent), and provides protected and sustained release of active agents from the microsphere delivery system. According to the invention, the microspheres preferably are produced by an oil-in-water emulsion method that involves the production of a homogeneous oil phase prepared by mixing active agent and a release-modifying agent, such as arginine, with biodegradable polymer, each dissolved in organic solvent. The homogeneous oil phase desirably is then dispersed in an aqueous phase containing an emulsifying agent, followed by solvent removal, to produce the microspheres in which the active agent and release-modifying agent are distributed homogeneously throughout the biodegradable polymer matrix. |
| US08808736B2 |
Enteric coated multiparticulate controlled release peppermint oil composition and related methods
A multiparticulate composition is formed from a plurality of individual cores including a hydrophobic phase containing peppermint oil dispersed in a microcrystalline cellulose-based gel and a hydrophilic phase containing a hydrogel. An enteric coating is over the individual cores. The multiparticulate composition can be used to treat gastrointestinal disorders. |
| US08808731B2 |
Adhesive pharmaceutical preparation containing bisoprolol
An adhesive pharmaceutical preparation which has a less irritation to the skin surface, keeps excellent stability of bisoprolol in the preparation, and allows continuous administration of a pharmacologically effective amount of bisoprolol into the living body, is provided. The adhesive preparation 10 comprises a support 1, an adhesive layer 2 laminated on one surface of the support 1. The adhesive layer 2 is characterized by containing bisoprolol, polyisobutylene, tackifier, and an organic liquid ingredient compatible to polyisobutylene and tackifier. Thus, an adhesive pharmaceutical preparation which has a good adhesiveness with less irritation to the skin and which gives almost no pain at peel-off or removal from the skin surface with leaving almost no paste, can be provided. In addition, bisoprolol is very stably maintained in the preparation and a pharmacologically effective amount of bisoprolol can be administered continuously into the living body through the skin surface. |
| US08808725B2 |
Solid forms for tissue repair
This invention provides coral-based scaffolds for cartilage repair, and instruments for insertion and utilization of same within a site of cartilage repair. |
| US08808719B1 |
Use of Chromobacterium substugae formulations, compostions and compounds to modulate cornworm rootworm larvae infestation
Provided is the use of or compositions or formulations comprising Chromobacterium species, filtrate, supernatant, extract, pesticidally active compound or metabolite derived therefrom as an insecticide, particularly against infestation of Corn Rootworm larvae. |
| US08808718B2 |
Hypertonic organic acid or salt thereof disinfectant composition and its use in dental treatment
The present invention concerns a disinfectant or antimicrobial composition for use in dental treatment, such as treatment and/or prevention of periodontitis, gingivitis or other forms of oral infection. The present Inventor found that microorganisms that infect the dental tissues and cause inflammation thereof, are susceptible to osmotic stress, to such extent that the application of a hypertonic composition is effective in curing or preventing infection and/or inflammations. It was furthermore found that these microorganisms are also susceptible to acidic stress. The present invention therefore provides compositions that induce osmotic stress in microorganisms causing infection of dental tissue when topically applied thereto, preferably osmotic as well as acidic stress. The present invention also concerns the methods and uses involving the compositions of the invention. |
| US08808717B2 |
Control of ectoparasites
Disclosed is a method of controlling ectoparasites that infest companion and livestock animals by applying to the animal an effective amount of 4-tert-butylphenethyl quinazolin-4-yl ether or 4-chloro-5-ethyl-2-methyl-N-[(4-tert-butylphenyl)methyl]pyrazole-3-carboxamide or 5-chloro-N-[2-[4-(2-ethoxyethyl)-2,3-dimethylphenoxy]ethyl]-6-ethyl-4-pyrimidinamine or 4-chloro-3-ethyl-1-methyl-N-[4-(p-tolyloxy)benzyl]pyrazole-5-carboxamide. |
| US08808716B2 |
Topical foam composition
The present invention relates to a novel oil in water emulsion aerosol foam composition containing an active agent for the treatment of various chronic and acute skin conditions, particularly acne and psoriasis; and processes for preparing the emulsion aerosol foam compositions. In particular, the present invention relates to oil in water emulsion aerosol foam compositions containing a retinoid in the oil phase. |
| US08808715B1 |
Methods and compositions for modulating keratinocyte function
The disclosure is generally directed to methods and compositions for modulating keratinocyte function, more particularly, to compositions and methods for normalizing keratinocyte proliferation and differentiation, compositions and methods for modulating levels of phosphatidylglycerol (PG) in keratinocytes, and compositions and methods for treating skin conditions by modulating keratinocyte proliferation. |
| US08808712B2 |
Malaria vaccine
The present invention provides a vaccine for preventing and/or treating Plasmodium falciparum infections, which comprises a polypeptide set forth in SEQ ID NO: 1 or represented by formula (1), and an adjuvant. X1-A-B-X2-Y-X3-(Y)n-X4-(Y)n-X5 (1) (In the formula, X1 represents the 1st to 7th amino acid residues in a polypeptide set forth in SEQ ID NO: 1; X2 represents the 73th to 177th amino acid residues; X3 represents the 178th to 258th amino acid residues; X4 represents the 259th to 289th amino acid residues; X5 represents the 290th to 334th amino acid residues; A represents an 8-mer repeat sequence contained in a 47-kd region of SERA polypeptide of Plasmodium falciparum; B represents a sequence of a serine-rich region contained in a 47-kd region of SERA polypeptide of Plasmodium falciparum; Y represents any one selected from A-A, A-B, and B; and n is an integer of 0 or 1.) |
| US08808707B1 |
Pneumococcal dosing regimen
Methods of immunizing older adult subjects against Streptococcus pneumoniae infection are provided. Provided methods comprise immunization of naïve adult subjects with a conjugated pneumococcal polysaccharide vaccine. Optionally, initial immunization may be followed by additional immunization doses comprising conjugated pneumococcal polysaccharide vaccine or unconjugated pneumococcal polysaccharide vaccine composition. |
| US08808706B2 |
Arthrospira-based compositions and uses thereof
The present invention concerns a composition comprising physiologically stressed Arthrospira maxima for use as a biocide and/or therapeutic. The invention also concerns a method for preventing or treating an infection or infestation of a subject by an organism, wherein the method comprises the step of administering to the subject an effective amount of a composition comprising physiologically stressed Arthrospira. |
| US08808705B2 |
Polyvalent chimeric OspC vaccinogen and diagnostic antigen
A chimeric polyvalent recombinant protein for use as a vaccine and diagnostic for Lyme disease is provided. The chimeric protein comprises epitopes of the loop 5 region and/or the alpha helix 5 region of outer surface protein C (OspC) types. The OspC types may be associated with mammalian Borrelia infections. |
| US08808704B2 |
Non-coiled protective regions of pneumococcal surface proteins PspA and PspC
The embodiments described herein provide for immunogenic portions of Streptococcus pneumoniae surface protein A and surface protein C lacking alpha helical structure. |
| US08808698B2 |
Methods for inhibition of lymphangiogenesis and tumor metastasis
The present invention is directed to compositions and methods for inhibiting the development of new lymphatic vessels, and for inhibiting tumor cell dissemination through the lymphatics. In preferred embodiments, the present invention utilizes agents that inhibit the specific binding of integrin alpha4beta1 (α4β1, VLA-4) to one or more of its ligands. The invention further relates to methods for screening test compounds for their ability to inhibit undesirable lymphangiogenesis and/or tumor metastasis. |
| US08808684B2 |
Epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) and methods of use in adenoviral-associated virus type 6 (AAV6) transduction
Comparative gene analysis (CGA) was combined with pathway visualization software to identify a positive correlation between AAV6 transduction and epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) expression. It was found that EGFR is necessary for vector internalization and functions as a co-receptor for AAV6. The identification and characterization of AAV6's requirement of EGFR expression for high transduction activity has allowed construction of recombinant AAV6 vectors which are capable of targeting and killing specific types of head and neck tumors that because of this high EGFR activity, were until now, refractory to current therapies. |
| US08808680B2 |
Ionomeric silicone thermoplastic elastomers
This invention relates to thermoplastic elastomers comprising at least one silicone ionomer. These thermoplastic elastomers may be reprocessed and/or recycled. |
| US08808678B2 |
Use and application of defined zwitterionic copolymer
The present invention relates to the use and application of a water-soluble or water-dispersible agglomerating copolymer which can be used in cleaning operations. |
| US08808677B1 |
Glycerin polyesters with terminal modification
The present invention is directed to a series of functionalized glycerin based polymers that have been designed to have very specific substitution patterns, herein referred to as regio-specific substitution (RSS). We have surprisingly found that by linking triglycerides into polymer backbones and controlling the location of the different alkyl groups along that backbone, the performance and structure can be fine tuned. The properties of these polymers can be controlled and tuned by judicial control of the polymerization conditions, specifically by employing the use of mono-functional monomers. This polymer will has “compartments” of solid and liquid pendant group domains if the proper pendant groups are chosen. This unique multi-dimensional, high definition polymer will have very unique physical properties, including unique shear and flow behaviors. These polymers will provide outstanding and unique skin feels when used in cosmetic applications. |
| US08808676B1 |
Glycerin polyesters with terminal silicone modification
The present invention is aimed at a series of novel glycerin polyesters that provide desired aesthetics and structure in cosmetic formulation. These glycerin polymers are synthesized by polycondensation polymerization, in the presence of a monofunctional monomer or terminal group. By carefully choosing the groups the properties can be dramatically altered. The mono-functional alcohols, being only able to react in one position, can only be located on the polymer chain ends. This provides very unique polymer structure and morphology. These regiospecific polyesters will have very unique physical properties and have a wide variety of solubilities. Furthermore, by the incorporation of a co-monomer will produce a copolymer with drastically different solubilities and aesthetics. |
| US08808675B2 |
Organopolysiloxane hair treatment agent and hair cosmetic containing the treatment agent
An organopolysiloxane hair treatment agent (A) represented by the following formula (1), R1aR2bR3cSiO(4-a-b-c)/2 (1). The hair treatment agent and cosmetic maintain good conditioning effect for a prolonged period of time. |
| US08808668B2 |
X-ray attenuating compositions and methods
The present invention provides methods and compositions for modulating x-ray attenuation, where the x-ray attenuation compound can comprise a molecule having at least two conformational states, a first k-edge atom attached to the molecule at a first position, and a second k-edge atom attached to the molecule at a second position, where the molecule changes from a first conformational state to a second conformational state in response to an external stimulus. Additionally, a first interatom distance between the first k-edge atom and the second k-edge atom in the first conformational state can be within a first harmonic error of 0 to about 0.2, and a second interatom distance between the first k-edge atom and the second k-edge atom in the second conformational state can be within a second harmonic error of about 0.8 to 1.0. |
| US08808664B2 |
Lipidated glycoprotein particles and methods of use
Lipidated micro- or macroparticles are prepared by covalently linking a glycoprotein, typically collagen, with at least one lipid. An amino group in the glycoprotein is joined with a primary amine in the lipid. These particles can be used to encapsulate active ingredients, such as drugs. |
| US08808662B2 |
Process for production of a borohydride compound
A process for production of a borohydride compound M(BH4)y. The process has three steps. The first step combines a compound of formula (R1O)yM with aluminum, hydrogen and a metallic catalyst containing at least one metal selected from the group consisting of titanium, zirconium, hafnium, niobium, vanadium, tantalum and iron to produce a compound of formula M(AlH3OR1)y, wherein R1 is phenyl or phenyl substituted by at least one alkyl or alkoxy group; M is an alkali metal, Be or Mg; and y is one or two; wherein the catalyst is present at a level of at least 200 ppm based on weight of aluminum. The second step combines the compound of formula M(AlH3OR1)y with a borate, boroxine or borazine compound to produce M(BH4)y and a byproduct mixture containing alkali metal and aluminum aryloxides. The third step separates M(BH4)y from the byproduct mixture. |
| US08808661B2 |
Molybdenum disulfide powders having low oil number and acid number
A molybdenum disulfide powder product produced by jet milling a molybdenum disulfide precursor material and substantially continuously combining newly sized-reduced particles with oil to produce said molybdenum disulfide powder product, said molybdenum disulfide powder product having a D50 particle size of less than 4 μm and an acid number that is less than about 0.5 mg KOH/g. A method for producing powder product includes the steps of: Providing a supply of a precursor powder material; accelerating particles of the precursor powder material by combining them with a flow of gas; confining the accelerated particles in a milling chamber so that they collide with one another to effect a size reduction; and coating newly exposed surfaces of size-reduced particles with oil. |
| US08808660B2 |
Method of precipitation of metal ions
The present invention relates to a method of precipitation of metal ions. Mineral(s), oxide(s), hydroxide(s) of magnesium and/or calcium are adopted as raw materials, and the raw material(s) is processed through at least one step of calcination, slaking, or carbonization to produce aqueous solution(s) of magnesium bicarbonate and/or calcium bicarbonate, and then the solution(s) is used as precipitant(s) to deposit rare earth, such as nickel, cobalt, iron, aluminum, gallium, indium, manganese, cadmium, zirconium, hafnium, strontium, barium, copper and zinc ions. And at least one of metal carbonates, hydroxides or basic carbonates is obtained, or furthermore the obtained products are calcined to produce metal oxides. The invention takes the cheap calcium and/or magnesium minerals or their oxides, hydroxides with low purity as raw materials to instead common precipitants such as ammonium bicarbonate and sodium carbonate etc. The calcium, magnesium, carbon dioxide etc are efficiently and circularly used, and the environment pollution by ammonium-nitrogen wastewater, high concentration salts wastewater is avoided, and both of the discharge of greenhouse gas carbon dioxide and the production cost of metal are decreased. |
| US08808659B2 |
Process and reactor system for producing ammonia using ionic liquids
A process and a reactor system for producing ammonia is described. The ammonia produced, such as by the Haber process, is absorbed into an ionic liquid. The removal of ammonia shifts the reaction equilibrium toward the production of ammonia, resulting in higher yields of ammonia. |
| US08808658B2 |
Rapid solid-state metathesis routes to nanostructured silicon-germainum
Methods for producing nanostructured silicon and silicon-germanium via solid state metathesis (SSM). The method of forming nanostructured silicon comprises the steps of combining a stoichiometric mixture of silicon tetraiodide (SiI4) and an alkaline earth metal silicide into a homogeneous powder, and initating the reaction between the silicon tetraiodide (SiI4) with the alkaline earth metal silicide. The method of forming nanostructured silicon-germanium comprises the steps of combining a stoichiometric mixture of silicon tetraiodide (SiI4) and a germanium based precursor into a homogeneous powder, and initiating the reaction between the silicon tetraiodide (SiI4) with the germanium based precursors. |
| 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. |