最新美国发明专利第2014-09-16期 - 专利汇|PatentHub专利检索|专利查询网|发明专利查询分析

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US08834920B2	Liposome composition for targeting egfr receptor Short oligopeptides are provide which are capable of binding to the epidermal growth factor receptor on the surface of human tumor cells. Methods for using the peptides as targeting moieties in more complex compositions, such as conjugates of cytoxins, and/or structures, such as liposomal structures, for the purposes of drug delivery are also provided.
US08834918B2	Modified multilayered film A composition for delivery of a molecule into a cell is provided. The composition includes a protein transduction domain that is conjugated to the molecule which is incorporated into a multilayered film. Preferably, the protein transduction domain is a cationic protein transduction domain. More preferably, the cationic protein transduction domain is nonaarginine, and the multilayered film includes polyelectrolyte multilayers. When the composition is presented to a cell, the multilayered film dissolves or erodes in physiological media, and the molecule is delivered into the cell.
US08834914B2	Treatment methods using a particulate cadaveric allogenic juvenile cartilage particles The present invention is directed to compositions having at least one neocartilage particle, juvenile cartilage particle or a combination thereof and a matrix, and methods and devices that include the compositions.
US08834910B2	Sustained release dispenser comprising two or more sex pheromone substances Provided are a sustained release dispenser which can control the release of sex pheromone simultaneously toward two or more species of insect pests and can also release the sex pheromone in response to the generation period of insect pest and the pest control method toward two or more insect pests. Provided specifically is a sex pheromone sustained release dispenser comprising two or more sex pheromone substances, each substance being aliphatic derivative having 10 to 20 carbons, and first and second chambers wherein some or all of the sex pheromone substance having a smallest carbon number excluding a carbon number in a functional group is contained in a first polymer chamber and the remainder is contained in a second polymer chamber. Provided also is a pest control method for using the sex pheromone sustained release dispenser.
US08834904B1	Oil-free viscoelastic elastomer gels for application to human skin A composition article, which may be applied to human, includes a non-oil thermoplastic gelatinous elastomer composition, which is formed into a composite by heating with a substrate material. The gelatinous elastomer includes a hydrogenated styrene/isoprene/butadiene block copolymer, at least one polymer or copolymer of the group poly(styrene-butadiene-styrene), poly(styrene-isoprene), poly(styrene-isoprene-styrene), poly(styrene-isoprene), poly(styrene-ethylene-propylene), poly(styrene-ethylene-propylene-styrene), poly(styrene-ethylene-butylene-styrene) or poly(styrene-ethylene-butylene), and a non-oil plasticizer.
US08834899B2	Photodynamic therapy-generated mesothelioma vaccine This invention relates to a vaccine for mesothelioma generated using photodynamic therapy and its use in methods and compositions for treating mesothelioma.
US08834895B2	Use of Francisella tularensis for prevention and treatment of allergic airway disorders A pharmaceutical composition for treating or preventing a Th2-mediated disease or disorder includes live, killed or attentuated Franciscella tularensis or its components. The F. tularensis cells may be LVS cells. Administration of an effective amount may prevent or reduce bronchoconstriction or allergic airway inflammation through a T-helper cell (Th) 1-mediated suppression of an ongoing Th2 response mechanism.
US08834892B2	Method of preparing live viral vaccines by genetic engineering of viral genome Disclosed is an attenuation method of an influenza virus, that is, a reassortant virus and a preparation method thereof. The disclosed reassortant virus has, in a ratio of 6:2, genes encoding a recombinant non-toxic protein and a wild type non-toxic protein, and genes encoding toxic proteins, HA (hemagglutinin) and NA (neuraminidase), of an influenza virus, the recombinant non-toxic protein consisting of a substituted caspase recognition sequence without a change of a protein size within the wild type non-toxic protein of the influenza virus. The disclosed attenuated influenza virus shows a high attenuation without a reduction of productivity in a fertilized egg. Accordingly, the method can be used as an economically efficient live vaccine preparation method which has both safety and efficiency and can use a fertilized egg as a production system. Also, since a protein is not removed or modified during attenuation, the method can be used in combination with a conventional attenuated vaccine preparation technology such as cold-adaptation.
US08834887B2	Drug for suppressing pathogen occurring in vivo To provide a drug for actively metabolizing or excreting a pathogen occurring in vivo.The present invention is directed to a compound which is formed of (A) an adsorbent for a pathogen occurring in the blood or lymph, and (B) a ligand which is specific to an organ or cells capable of metabolizing or excreting the pathogen and which is bonded to the adsorbent via a linker or with no linker, and to a drug containing the same.
US08834885B2	Methods for identification of sites for IgG conjugation The present disclosure relates to immunoglobulins and immunoglobulin conjugates with reduced oligomerization and efficient labeling and compositions, methods of generating such immunoglobulins and immunoglobulin conjugates and methods of using such immunoglobulin conjugates particularly in the treatment and prevention of disease.
US08834883B2	Anti-VEGF antibodies and uses thereof Provided are monoclonal antibodies and antigen binding fragments thereof that specifically bind vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). The anti-VEGF monoclonal antibodies block VEGF binding to its receptors (e.g., VEGFR1 and/or VEGFR2) and prevent phosphorylation of VEGFR2 by VEGF. Also provided are methods of using the monoclonal anti-VEGF antibodies for treatment of disease, including cancer.
US08834881B2	Human binding molecules capable of binding to and neutralizing influenza B viruses and uses thereof Described are binding molecules, such as human monoclonal antibodies, that bind to hemagglutinin of influenza B viruses, and have a broad neutralizing activity against such influenza viruses. These binding molecules do not bind to hemagglutinin of influenza A viruses. Further provided are nucleic acid molecules encoding the binding molecules, and compositions comprising the binding molecules. The binding molecules can be used in the diagnosis of, prophylaxis against, and/or treatment of influenza B virus infections.
US08834879B2	Methods of treating fibroproliferative disorders of the kidney or reducing kidney fibrosis Materials and methods for reducing cell proliferation or extracellular matrix production in a mammal are disclosed. The methods comprise administering to a mammal a composition comprising a therapeutically effective amount of a zvegf4 antagonist in combination with a pharmaceutically acceptable delivery vehicle. Exemplary zvegf4 antagonists include anti-zvegf4 antibodies, inhibitory polynucleotides, inhibitors of zvegf4 activation, and mitogenically inactive, receptor-binding variants of zvegf4. The materials and methods are useful in the treatment of, inter alia, fibroproliferative disorders of the kidney, liver, and bone.
US08834874B2	Methods and compositions for increasing iduronate 2-sulfatase activity in the CNS Provided herein are methods and compositions for treating a subject suffering from a deficiency in iduronate 2-sulfatase in the CNS. The methods include systemic administration of a bifunctional fusion antibody comprising an antibody that crosses the blood brain barrier (BBB) and an iduronate 2-sulfatase.
US08834872B2	Uses of antibodies The present invention provides a method of preparing an antibody containing milk or egg product for use in preventing and/or treating of a non infectious medical condition. The invention also provides non-systemic modes of administering pharmaceutical compositions including the antibody containing milk or egg products, including to the GI tract.
US08834871B2	Immunoglobulin molecules with improved characteristics The present invention provides for IgG1 molecules with improved characteristics. In particular, substitution mutations are provided that, in combination, facilitate improved placental transfer, improved serum half-life and improved FcRn binding. Substitution mutations are also provided, that in combination, can be used to block FcRn function and thereby increase the clearance rates of other (endogenous or exogenous) IgGs, block placental transport of IgGs and have increased affinity/reduced pH dependence for FcRn binding.
US08834870B2	Treatment of leukemias and chronic myeloproliferative diseases with antibodies to EphA3 The invention provides methods and compositions comprising anti-EphA3 antibodies for the treatment of myeloproliferative disorders.
US08834869B2	Pharmacological vitreolysis A method of treating or preventing a disorder, or a complication of a disorder, of an eye of a subject comprising contacting a vitreous and/or aqueous humor with a composition comprising a truncated form of plasmin comprising a catalytic domain of plasmin (TPCD). TPCDs include, but are not limited to, miniplasmin, microplasmin and derivatives and variants thereof. The methods of the invention can be used to reduce the viscosity of the vitreous, liquefy the vitreous, induce posterior vitreous detachment, reduce hemorrhagic blood from the eye, clear or reduce materials toxic to the eye, clear or reduce intraocular foreign substances from the eye, increase diffusion of a composition administered to an eye, reduce extraretinal neovascularization and any combinations thereof. The method can be used in the absence of, or as an adjunct to, vitrectomy.
US08834865B2	Delivery system for co-formulated enzyme and substrate The invention provides methods, compositions, systems, and kits that include an enzyme/substrate co-delivery system. The liquid delivery system includes at least one enzyme encapsulated in a water-soluble polymeric matrix and a substrate for the enzyme in a carrier liquid in which the polymeric matrix is insoluble. When water is added, the polymeric matrix is solubilized and enzyme is released from the matrix, permitting catalytic action upon the substrate.
US08834864B2	Methods for repairing and regenerating human dura mater A method of using a substantially non-porous equine collagen foil to repair and regenerate dura mater tissue of mammals when the dura mater tissue is damaged as a result of injury, tumors, surgery, and the like. The non-porous equine collagen foil comprises collagen fibrils which provides a replacement dura mater composition that is elastic, liquid-tight, and which has a high tensile strength. The non-porous equine collagen foil is furthermore resorbable and provides a biomatrix, wherein a neodura is rapidly formed which becomes indistinguishable from the autologous dura mater in a matter of weeks. The process for making the equine collagen foil reduces the likelihood of disease transmission.
US08834861B2	Polycarbonates for delivery of drugs and methods of preparation thereof A cyclic carbonate monomer has the formula (2): wherein i) t and t′ are integers independently having a value from 0 to 6 wherein t′ and t cannot both be zero, ii) each Q1 is a monovalent radical independently selected from the group consisting of hydrogen, halides, alkyl groups comprising 1 to 30 carbons, and aryl groups comprising 6 to 30 carbon atoms, iii) L′ is a divalent linking group comprising one or more carbons, and iv) S′ is a steroidal group.
US08834855B2	Sunscreen compositions comprising carotenoids The invention concerns methods of treating or preventing the effects of irradiation in a human or non-human animal using carotenoid compounds, preferably diadinoxanthin, diatoxanthin and/or fucoxanthin as well as photoprotective compositions and their use to prepare photoprotective or photoprotected products.
US08834854B2	Oral treatment compositions and related methods of manufacture An oral treatment composition that includes a carrier, an active agent and a silicon dioxide compound. The active agent can be a variety of compositions, such as dental whitening or bleaching agents, desensitizing agents, antimicrobials, anti-plaque agents, remineralizing agents, anti-tartar agents, mouth fresheners, and anesthetics. Optionally, a processing aid can be added to the composition to streamline manufacture of the gel. The composition can be formed as a bead in a dental tray so that when a user applies the dental tray to their dental arch, the bead readily spreads over the surfaces of the teeth without the user having to supply significant force to achieve such spreading.
US08834853B2	Coated dehydrated microorganisms with enhanced stability and viability The present invention relates to coated dehydrated microorganisms comprising a dehydrated microorganism surrounded by at least one coating, said coating comprising by dry weight at least 25% of hygroscopic salt(s) and wherein the pH of the coating is compatible with viability of the coated dehydrated microorganism. The coating can be partially crystalline, the salt(s) in the coating having preferably a crystallinity degree of up to 60% once applied onto the dehydrated microorganism. The present invention also relates to liquid coating compositions, methods for coating and protecting a dehydrated microorganism. Finally, the present invention relates to a method for the preparation of food products, feed products, consumer healthcare products or agri-products as well as to a food product, feed product, a consumer healthcare product or an agri-product containing such coated dehydrated microorgansims.
US08834852B2	Composition for oral cavity The present invention relates to an oral care composition, which contains a compound represented by the formula (A): (wherein, R represents a substituted or unsubstituted, linear or branched alkyl group having from 6 to 18 carbon atoms, G represents a galactose residue, m stands for an integer of from 0 to 200, and n stands for an integer of from 1 to 30); and a coaggregation inhibitor of bacteria of the genus Fusobacterium and cariogenic bacteria, which contains the compound as an effective ingredient. The composition for oral cavity according to the present invention inhibits coaggregation of bacteria of the genus Fusobacterium with cariogenic bacteria so that it has an excellent caries preventive effect.
US08834841B2	Imaging agents The present invention provides novel amino acid compounds useful in detecting and evaluating brain and body tumors. These compounds have the advantageous properties of rapid uptake and prolonged retention in tumors and can be labeled with halogen isotopes such as fluorine-18, iodine-123, iodine-124, iodine-125, iodine-131, bromine-75, bromine-76, bromine-77, bromine-82, astatine-210, astatine-211, and other astatine isotopes. These compounds can also be labeled with technetium and rhenium isotopes using known chelation complexes. The compounds disclosed herein bind tumor tissues in vivo with high specificity and selectivity when administered to a subject. Preferred compounds show a target to non-target ratio of at least 2:1, are stable in vivo and substantially localized to target within 1 hour after administration. Preferred compounds include 1-amino-2-[18F]fluorocyclobutyl-1-carboxylic acid (2-[18F]FACBC) and 1-amino-2-[18]fluoromethylcyclobutyl-1-carboxylic acid (2-[18F]FMACBC). The labeled amino acid compounds of the invention are useful as imaging agents in detecting and/or monitoring tumors in a subject by PET or SPECT.
US08834840B1	Magnetic resonance imaging of self-assembled biomaterial scaffolds Compositions and/or mixtures comprising peptide amphiphile compounds comprising one or more contrast agents, as can be used in a range of magnetic resonance imaging applications.
US08834834B2	Use of char particles in the production of synthesis gas and in hydrocarbon reforming Processes for producing synthesis gas from biomass in which char particles, which are formed during the production of synthesis gas from biomass, are employed as catalysts. The char particles may be used as catalysts in a gasifier or in a thermal reformer, whereby gaseous components, formed as a result of the gasification of the biomass, such as methane, light alkyl and aromatic compounds, and phenolics, as well as tar, may be reformed and/or converted into synthesis gas.
US08834829B2	Forming gas treatment of lithium ion battery anode graphite powders The invention provides a method of making a battery anode in which a quantity of graphite powder is provided. The temperature of the graphite powder is raised from a starting temperature to a first temperature between 1000 and 2000° C. during a first heating period. The graphite powder is then cooled to a final temperature during a cool down period. The graphite powder is contacted with a forming gas during at least one of the first heating period and the cool down period. The forming gas includes H2 and an inert gas.
US08834828B2	Fine carbon fiber, fine short carbon fiber, and manufacturing method for said fibers A novel fine carbon fiber is produced by vapor growth, in which a graphite-net plane consisting of carbon atoms alone forms a temple-bell-shaped structural unit comprising closed head-top part and body-part with open lower-end, where an angle θ formed by a generatrix of the body-part and a fiber axis is less than 15°, 2 to 30 of the temple-bell-shaped structural units are stacked sharing a central axis to form an aggregate, and the aggregates are connected in head-to-tail style with a distance, thereby forming a fiber. Furthermore, a fine short carbon fibers with excellent dispersibility can be obtained by shortening the fine carbon fiber.
US08834826B2	Aggregate of carbon nanotubes, dispersion thereof and conductive film using the same Provided is an aggregate of carbon nanotubes satisfying (1) there is a 2θ peak at 24°±2° by X-ray powder diffraction analysis; (2) a height ratio (G/D ratio) of G band to D band by Raman spectroscopic analysis of wavelength 532 nm is 30 or more; and (3) a combustion peak temperature is from 550° C. to 700° C. The present invention provides an aggregate of carbon nanotubes excellent in dispersibility while high quality, giving a film, molded article, membrane or the like having excellent characteristics.
US08834823B2	Catalytic reduction of NOx with high activity catalysts Methods and systems for selective catalytic reduction of NOx with an activated-carbon-supported metal catalyst at an operating temperature of between about between about 500° C. and about 750° C. An exhaust stream including NOx is introduced to a catalytic reactor having the activated-carbon-supported metal catalyst for NOx reduction of at least 90%. A second catalyst reactor can be provided downstream to remove or convert nitrous oxide as desired.
US08834821B2	Control techniques for an SCR aftertreatment system A method includes providing: a selective catalytic reduction (SCR) catalyst disposed in an exhaust gas stream of an internal combustion engine, a reagent injector operationally coupled to the exhaust gas stream at a position upstream of the SCR catalyst, and a NOx sensor coupled to the exhaust gas stream at a position downstream of at least a first portion of the SCR catalyst. The method includes operating an extremum seeking controller to determine a first reagent injection amount corresponding to a predetermined slope of δNOx/δANR, the δNOx/δANR determined according to the NOx sensor, providing a reagent injection command in response to the first reagent injection amount, and injecting an amount of the reagent in response to the reagent injection command.
US08834817B2	Method for removing metal impurity from quartz component part used in heat processing apparatus of batch type A method for using a heat processing apparatus of a batch type includes performing a preparatory process for removing aluminum present as a metal impurity from a quartz inner surface of a process container, and performing a main heat process on product substrates held on a holder member in the process container after the preparatory process. The preparatory process includes placing a plurality of dummy substrates for allowing the metal impurity to be deposited thereon inside a process container with no product substrates placed therein; then, supplying a chlorine-containing gas and water vapor into the process container and heating the quartz inner surface of the process container at a process temperature, thereby applying a baking process onto the quartz inner surface to discharge the metal impurity from the quartz inner surface and deposit the metal impurity onto the dummy substrates; and then, unloading the dummy substrates with the metal impurity deposited thereon from the reaction container.
US08834811B2	Device for storing reagent and method of discharging reagent thereof Provided are a device for storing a reagent capable of being adhered to a biochip and supplying the stored reagent to the biochip, and a method of discharging a reagent thereof. The device for storing a reagent includes an elastic film pressurizing part configured to pressurize an elastic film by magnetic force, and a reagent discharging part configured to store the reagent and discharge the reagent through an outlet by using the deformation in the elastic film due to the pressurization. According to the present invention, a magnetic force controlling device can be small-sized and the reagent can be automatically, high-precisely, and reproducibly supplied through the magnetic force control.
US08834810B2	Method and apparatus for programmable fluidic processing A method and apparatus for microfluidic processing by programmably manipulating a packet. A material is introduced onto a reaction surface and compartmentalized to form a packet. A position of the packet is sensed with a position sensor. A programmable manipulation force is applied to the packet at the position. The programmable manipulation force is adjustable according to packet position by a controller. The packet is programmably moved according to the programmable manipulation force along arbitrarily chosen paths.
US08834809B2	Solid waste compression loading and waste treatment apparatus and method The invention includes an apparatus, system, waste treatment facility and method of autoclave loading and treatment that involves (a) receiving solid waste at a solid waste treatment facility; (b) compressing the waste into a plurality of compressed bales, the compressed bales bound by a binding material adapted to melt at a temperature at which an autoclave operates or otherwise break upon the operation of the autoclave; (c) loading the compressed bales into an autoclave; and (d) operating the autoclave so as to melt or break the binding material to allow the compressed bales of solid waste to be decompressed and treated in the autoclave.
US08834807B2	Device and method for improving sample injection and stacking The invention provides devices and methods for isolating one or more sample components of a sample material following separation of the sample material into a plurality of sample components. A device includes a separation channel having a sample loading well. A low-conductivity buffer is disposed in the loading well, the buffer having a conductivity<0.2 mS/cm. In a method, a buffer is loaded into a loading well in fluid communication with a separation channel of a device. A sample material having a conductivity higher than that of the buffer is then loaded into the loading well such that the sample material is disposed beneath the buffer, the buffer disposed over and covering the sample material. The sample material is separated into a plurality of separated components in the separation channel, and a separated component is collected from a collection well disposed in a collection leg of the device.
US08834806B2	Crystallization apparatus A reaction-crystallization apparatus for carrying out reaction and/or solvent extraction and/or crystallization of soluble salts has an upper section having a top and a decanter. The decanter has a vertical vessel having a horizontal weir at the top of the upper section. The top of the upper section has an outlet for removing a light phase at the top of the decanter. The apparatus has a lower section, including a crystallizer. The crystallizer includes: a coaxial draft tube; a feed pipe; an agitator inside the draft tube; and at least one outlet at the bottom for crystal slurry removal. The apparatus has an intermediate section sandwiched between the lower section and the upper section such that the sections are in fluid communication and includes at least one coaxial vertical baffle with a gap between the draft tube and the coaxial vertical baffle and is adjustable by moving the baffle.
US08834804B2	Environmental sanitizer and odor remover for purification of foods, surfaces, air and water with disposable ozone generation electrode, pressure/flow adaptable venturi injector and aqueous phase filter device A dielectric assembly for generating ozone includes a positive electrode, a negative electrode, a dielectric for generating the ozone, and a knob adapted to extend outside of a housing into which the dielectric assembly is to be placed. A system is also provided for sanitizing and deodorizing water, food, surfaces and air including a microbiological reduction filter device having an input connected to a water supply, a venturi injector disposed within a housing and connected to an output of the microbiological reduction filter device which generates ozone and mixes the generated ozone with the water, and an electrode assembly comprising a plurality of electrodes, a dielectric for generating the ozone, and a knob extending outside of the housing. The dielectric in a first embodiment and the entire dielectric assembly in a second embodiment can be removed from the housing and replaced in its entirety by the knob.
US08834803B2	Electro hydrodynamic thruster for decontaminating a display case A display assembly for containing and displaying perishable products includes a case having at least one wall and defining an internal volume, a quantity of gas contained in the case, the gas including ethylene emitted from the perishable products, and an electro hydrodynamic thrust device positioned in the case. The electro hydrodynamic thrust device ionizes a portion of the quantity of gas. The ionized gas includes at least one reactive oxygen species, and the at least one reactive oxygen species reacts with the ethylene to break down the ethylene.
US08834796B2	Chromatographic optical detection system A chromatographic optical detection system includes an optical detector disposed to receive light scattered from a stream of particles and configured to convert the received light to an electrical signal; a signal-processing unit in signal communication with the optical detector to receive the electrical signal, and configured to convert the electrical signal to digital pulses and count the digital pulses to output a first signal corresponding to a number of particles detected in a time interval, and configured to integrate and digitize the electrical signal to output a second signal corresponding to the number of particles detected in the time interval; and a data station in signal communication with the signal-processing unit, and configured to select the first signal, if the number of particles detected in the time interval is less than a threshold criterion, and to select the second signal if the number of particles detected in the time interval exceeds the threshold criterion. The threshold criterion is associated with a saturation condition.
US08834792B2	Systems for processing sample processing devices A system and method for processing sample processing devices. The system can include a base plate adapted to rotate about a rotation axis. The system can further include a cover including a first projection, and a housing. A portion of the housing can be movable with respect to the base plate between an open position and a closed position, and can include a second projection. The first projection and the second projection can be adapted to be coupled together when the portion is in the open position and decoupled when the portion is in the closed position. The method can include coupling the cover to the portion of the housing, moving the portion of the housing from the open position to the closed position, and rotating the base plate about the rotation axis.
US08834789B2	Fluid treatment system comprising radiation source module and cooling means In a fluid treatment system includes a housing with fluid inlet and outlet for a process fluid, an irradiation zone disposed between the fluid inlet and fluid outlet, and at least one radiation source module with a radiation source having a discharge vessel with outer and inner wall. The inner wall encloses an internal volume with at least one opening and an internal electrode for igniting and maintaining a discharge. The radiation source module also includes a submersible frame with a guide to guide the process fluid into and out of the internal volume of the radiation source. The dissipation of the heat generated by the discharge in the discharge gap via a fluid flow in the internal volume of the lamp and in contact with the internal electrode is substantially more effective than dissipation via a cooling channel separated from the internal electrode. It is therefore substantially easier to maintain the discharge at an approximately optimal temperature.
US08834785B2	Methods for producing molybdenum/molybdenum disulfide metal articles A method for producing a metal article according to one embodiment may involve the steps of: Providing a composite metal powder including a substantially homogeneous dispersion of molybdenum and molybdenum disulfide sub-particles that are fused together to form individual particles of the composite metal powder; and compressing the molybdenum/molybdenum disulfide composite metal powder under sufficient pressure to cause the mixture to behave as a nearly solid mass.
US08834783B2	Method and apparatus for producing ceramic molding A molding apparatus for producing a ceramic molding comprising a material-flowing path, a molding die disposed at one end of the material-flowing path, and a pressurizing means for extrusion-molding the molding material; the material-flowing path comprising pluralities of porous plates for passing the molding material and a screen fixed therebetween, and a method for producing a ceramic molding using this apparatus.
US08834779B2	Method and device for assembling a handling unit of filled containers A method for assembling a handling unit of filled containers and a corresponding method, where the handling unit comprises different container types being different with respect to at least the height, base area, base area shape or the mechanical load capacity of the containers, and the supplied containers are arranged on a handling unit carrier. The arrangement of the containers with respect to the number and/or the position and/or the rotational position of the containers on the handling unit carrier is made in dependence on at least one of the above container parameters, and the handling units can be produced flexibly and with a high packing density.
US08834778B2	Mold delay for increased pressure for forming container A method of fluid forming a container comprising positioning a plastic preform into a mold cavity, wherein the mold cavity defines a first configuration and a first volume. The method further includes injecting a fluid within the plastic preform at a first fluid pressure urging the plastic preform into an expanded shape. The method includes actuating the mold cavity into a second configuration and a second volume, whereby the second volume is smaller than the first volume, thereby resulting in a second fluid pressure within the plastic preform being greater than the first fluid pressure.
US08834775B2	Method of manufacturing nanofibers A nanofiber manufacturing apparatus (100) which produces nanofibers (301) by electrically stretching a solution (300) in space. The apparatus includes: an effusing body (115) having effusing holes (118) for effusing the solution into the space, a tip part (116) in which openings (119) are arranged at given intervals, and two side wall parts (117) provided so as to extend from both sides of the tip part so that the effusing holes are located between the side wall parts and the distance between the side wall parts increases with the distance from the tip part; a charging electrode (121) disposed at a given distance from the effusing body; and a charging power supply (122) which applies a given voltage between the effusing body and the charging electrode.
US08834772B2	Antimicrobial methacrylate cements Bone cement compositions and methods of making two-part bone cements. The methods comprise transferring premixed powder and a liquid component into a receptacle, and mixing the powder component and the liquid component to form a cement composition. The premixed powder component comprises an acrylic polymer and a radical initiator. The bone cement is loaded with from about 5% to about 6% gentamicin by weight of the powder component, and from about 4% to about 5% vancomycin by weight of the powder component. The methods include filling a mold cavity with the bone cement composition to form a temporary spacer implant. The bone cement compositions provide a viscosity profile sufficient for the bone cement composition to flow within the mold cavity for an elapsed working time period of greater than about 6 minutes from the start of mixing at approximately 23° C.
US08834761B2	Permanently lubricated film gasket and method of manufacture A permanently lubricated film gasket for providing a fluid-tight seal between a corrugated pipe and a smooth annular section of an outer pipe or section when the corrugated pipe and the outer pipe or section are in a relative surrounded and surrounding relationship. A first portion of the gasket is shaped to fit within a groove or recess of the corrugated pipe. A second portion of the gasket extends from the first portion. The second portion is at least partially comprised of permanently lubricated film for facilitating in the connection of the pipes along a single direction.
US08834757B2	Method for making particle/polymer composites and applications The invention provides a method for producing bioinert biocompatible diamond particles/polymer composites or any other matrix (e.g. glass, metal, plastic, ceramic and more)/diamond particle composites, even if not biocompatible with outstanding mechanical, tribological, and biological properties, the method comprising selecting a polymer having a melting temperature below about 300 C; mixing diamond particles with the polymer to form a liquid mixture, poring the liquid diamond particle/polymer or any other diamond particle/matrix composite in liquid form into a mold and then causing the composite to sinter with the diamond particles densely and uniformly distributed through the bulk and surface of the composite, such that the diamond particles distributed on the surface can form a diamond layer covering the surface.
US08834755B2	Process of making wholly aromatic polyamide filament Disclosed are wholly aromatic polyamide filament and a method of manufacturing the same, characterized by comprising multi-stage injection of a coagulant with sulfuric acid concentration lowered sequentially stage by stage, to a spun material fed into a coagulant injection tank. The present invention enables increase of a spinning and take-up velocity without occurrence of thread cutting by uniformly and evenly coagulating surface and inside of the spun material. In addition, the present invention recovers the coagulant or water already used and reuses the recovered coagulant or water in the earlier stages, so that it has advantages of saving production costs and reducing environmental contamination. Accordingly, the wholly aromatic polyamide filament produced according to the present invention has high crystallinity X, large apparent crystal size ACS and reduced defects in the crystal itself, thereby exhibiting more improved physical properties such as strength and modulus.
US08834754B2	Manufacturing process of compact monolithic prismatic modules for construction The object of the invention is to obtain prefabricated modules of reinforced concrete corresponding to a dwelling with or without compartments, with its six wall structures consisting of single elements, achieving in this way a 100% monolithic structure, which eliminates any vibrations or dilatation and prevents the formation of cracks or humidity in the module. To this end, an internal permanent formwork is manufactured in the plant on the basis of six elements—floor, walls and ceiling, which are fixed along their edges by means of high-resistance putty and provided with distancing pads (9) on the bottom base on the floor or on the selected supporting surface with the service installations (11) mounted on the external face of the permanent formwork (1, 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6) and over them the insulation material (12), where it is necessary, then a structural frame (13), and finally an external recoverable formwork (14).
US08834749B2	Photosensitive resin composition and light blocking layer using the same Disclosed are a photosensitive resin composition including (A) a binder resin including a cardo-based resin including a repeating unit represented by the following Chemical Formula 1, (B) a photopolymerizable monomer, (C) a photopolymerization initiator, (D) a colorant and (E) a solvent, and a light blocking layer using the same. In the above Chemical Formula 1, each substituent is the same as defined in the detailed description.
US08834746B1	Nanostructured compositions containing nanoparticles and carbon nanotubes and methods for production thereof Nanostructured compositions containing carbon nanotubes and at least one other type of nanoparticle can display the beneficial properties of both substances. Nanostructured compositions can contain a plurality of carbon nanotubes, a plurality of nanoparticles, and a plurality of linker moieties, where at least a portion of the linker moieties connect at least a portion of the carbon nanotubes to the nanoparticles. The nanostructured compositions can form a substrate coating. The nanostructured compositions can contain two or more different types or sizes of nanoparticles. Methods for forming a nanostructured composition can include forming a non-covalent bond between a linker moiety and a carbon nanotube, forming a covalent bond between a linker moiety and a nanoparticle or a surfactant coating thereon, and applying a plurality of carbon nanotubes to a substrate. The linker moiety can be non-covalently bonded to the carbon nanotube before or after applying the carbon nanotubes to the substrate.
US08834740B2	Polycrystalline cobalt-nickel-manganese ternary positive material, preparation method thereof and lithium ion secondary battery A polycrystalline cobalt-nickel-manganese ternary positive material is provided. The polycrystalline cobalt-nickel-manganese ternary positive material comprises more than two basic crystalline structures of Liz—CoO2, LizNiO2, LizMnO2, LizCo1-(x+y)NixMnyO2, LizNixMn1-xO2, LizCoxNi1-xO2 and Li2MnO3. Further, a method for preparing the positive material by high-temperature fusion is provided. The positive material has the compacted density of 3.9-4.3 g/cm3, the capacity of 145 mAh/g or more when the discharging rate is 0.5-1C and the capacity retention rate of more than 90% after 300 cycles. The positive material prepared by high-temperature fusion has high volume energy density, excellent electrochemical performance, and improved safety and is manufactured economically. Further, a lithium ion secondary battery comprising the positive material is provided.
US08834739B1	Boron nitride nano-platelete based materials The present invention is related to heat transfer materials including nano-scale boron nitride platelets having an aspect ratio ranging from about 10:1 to about 1000:1. The present invention also provides a method of removing heat from an object by directly or indirectly contacting the object with the heat transfer materials.
US08834737B2	Method for making carbon nanotube composite films A method for making a carbon nanotube composite film is provided. A PVDF is dissolved into a first solvent to form a PVDF solution. A number of magnetic particles is dispersed into the PVDF solution to form a suspension. A carbon nanotube film is immersed into the suspension and then transferred into a second solvent. The carbon nanotube film structure is transferred from the second solvent and dried to form the carbon nanotube composite film.
US08834736B2	Ternary thermoelectric material containing nanoparticles and process for producing the same A thermoelectric material that comprises a ternary main group matrix material and nano-particles and/or nano-inclusions of a Group 2 or Group 12 metal oxide dispersed therein. A process for making the thermoelectric material that includes reacting a reduced metal precursor with an oxidized metal precursor in the presence of nanoparticles.
US08834723B1	Smart water discharge monitoring system The system and process of the present invention will consist of specific monitors in tandem with interface probes reading in multiple locations, divert valves which are operated by the readings of the interface probes and online ppm monitors. Such monitors would function in conjunction with these leading indicators through a software program and computerized logic controller used to manipulate the controls of this system.
US08834721B2	Magnetic filtration apparatus A magnetic filtration apparatus to separate ferrous contaminant material from a working fluid. The separation apparatus has a housing that is divided into a plurality of filtration chambers, each chamber having an elongate magnetic core to generate a magnetic field to entrap the contaminant material as it flows through the filter body. A fluid communication passageway is provided between the first and second chambers and is positioned such that the fluid exposure to the magnetic fields is maximized.
US08834717B2	Head plate The invention relates to a head plate, fixing the end of a tube bundle with a number of, in particular, porous tubes with a membrane in sealing manner. The head plate is made from a metal or a metal alloy with a melting point lower than the lowest failure temperature for a tube material and/or the membrane.
US08834716B2	Water treatment device A water treatment system, for example for treating grey water from domestic appliances comprises a water treatment device containing a filter media through which the water passes to remove particulates and bio-matter. The device has a lid provided with a spraying device. The spraying device may, for example, receive treated water along a line, possibly with the addition of an anti-foaming agent. Operating of the spraying device thus serves to collapse any foam generated within the water treatment device. Filter media can be cleaned periodically in a cyclone, after being drawn up through a pipe by means of a jet pump, receiving treated water along a line. Treated water is stored in a storage tank for subsequent use.
US08834708B2	Process for treating a hydrocarbon-containing feed A process for treating a hydrocarbon-containing feedstock is provided in which a hydrocarbon-containing feedstock comprising at least 20 wt. % of heavy hydrocarbons is mixed with hydrogen and a metal-containing non-acidic catalyst at a temperature of 375° C. to 500° C. to produce a vapor comprising a first hydrocarbon-containing product. The vapor comprising the first hydrocarbon-containing product is separated from the mixture, and, apart from the mixture, the first hydrocarbon-containing product is contacted with hydrogen and a catalyst containing a Column 6 metal at a temperature of 260° C.-425° C. to produce a second hydrocarbon-containing product.
US08834707B2	Process for treating a hydrocarbon-containing feed A process for treating a hydrocarbon-containing feedstock is provided in which a hydrocarbon-containing feedstock comprising at least 20 wt. % of heavy hydrocarbons is mixed with hydrogen, hydrogen sulfide and a metal-containing catalyst at a temperature of 375° C. to 500° C. and a pressure of from 6.9 MPa to 27.5 MPa to produce a vapor comprising a first hydrocarbon-containing product, where the hydrogen sulfide is mixed with the feedstock, metal-containing catalyst, and hydrogen at a mole ratio of hydrogen sulfide to hydrogen of at least 1:10. The vapor comprising the first hydrocarbon-containing product is separated from the mixture, and, apart from the mixture, the first hydrocarbon-containing product is contacted with hydrogen and a catalyst containing a Column 6 metal at a temperature of 260° C.-425° C. and a pressure of from 3.4 MPa to 27.5 MPa to produce a second hydrocarbon-containing product.
US08834705B2	Gear oil compositions A novel lubricant composition is disclosed. In one embodiment the lubricant composition comprises in admixture: a first base stock component comprising one or more base stocks each having a viscosity of at least 40 cSt, Kv100° C. and a molecular weight distribution (MWD) as a function of viscosity at least 10 percent less than algorithm: MWD=0.2223+1.0232*log (Kv at 100° C. in cSt); and a second base stock component comprising one or more base stocks each having a viscosity less than 10 cSt, Kv100° C.
US08834703B2	Preparation and maintenance of sensors Apparatus and methods are described for preparing, maintaining, and stabilizing sensors. The apparatus and methods for preparing sensors for use are utilized in advance of the sensor being removed from a sealed, sterilized package. The apparatus include packaging materials having electrical circuits capable of stabilizing a sensor to prepare the sensor for use. The methods for preparing a sensor for use includes methods of providing a solution to a sterilized packaging that contains a sensor connected to a sensor activating circuit, activating the circuit, and allowing the sensor to stabilize. These methods can be performed without compromising the packaging. The apparatus for stabilizing a sensor that is in use include a circuit connectable to the sensor that provides a signal to the sensor that prevents the sensor from becoming destabilized when disconnected from a monitoring device.
US08834702B2	Biosensor and usage thereof A biosensor for quantifying an analyte in a sample and usage thereof are provided. The biosensor includes an insulative substrate, a cover, a sample supply port, an electrode system including at least a working electrode, a counter electrode and a third electrode, and a reaction layer at least formed over the working electrode. The third electrode, used for estimating whether the amount of the sample is sufficient, is disposed nearer to the sample supply port than the counter electrode is. Whether the amount of the added sample is sufficient is estimated by comparing the electrical current value detected between the working electrode and the counter electrode with the electrical current value detected between the working electrode and the third electrode. This invention has a simple structure and produces accurate measurements.
US08834701B2	Electrochemical process for synthesis of graphene A process for the transformation of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) to nanoribbons composed of a few layers of graphene by an electrochemical approach involving dispersing CNTs by sonication and depositing onto a conducting substrate, and oxidizing CNTs at controlled potential, followed by reduction to form graphene nanoribbons having smooth edges and fewer defects.
US08834692B2	Dissolved oxygen measurement system Provided is a dissolved oxygen measurement system. The dissolved oxygen measurement system includes a hydrogen storage device storing hydrogen, a first hydrogen fuel cell in which the hydrogen stored in the hydrogen storage device and water supplied from the outside in real time react with each other to generate first electricity energy, a water storage tank storing the water supplied from the outside, a second hydrogen fuel cell in which the water supplied from the water storage tank and the hydrogen stored in the hydrogen storage device react with each other to generate second electricity energy, and a control unit analyzing a difference between the first electricity energy and the second electricity energy.
US08834691B2	Device for measuring biological sample The objective of the invention is to enhance measurement accuracy in a device for measuring a biological sample. To attain this objective, the invention is provided with a main case (2) having a sensor insertion section (1), a measurement section (7) connected to the sensor insertion section (1), a controller (8) connected to the measurement section (7), and a display (3) connected to the controller (8). An acceleration sensor (5) is furnished for detecting a shock applied to the sensor insertion section (1).
US08834689B2	Device, apparatus, and method for abrasive electrochemical finishing A device, apparatus, and method for abrasive electrochemical finishing of an arc flange leaf pack are presented. The device includes: a concave support block having holes to receive securing members; removable first and second end blocks configured to seat at opposite ends of the concave support block; removable first and second face plates attached to opposite sides of the concave support block via the securing members; and a region of space between the removable first and second face plates, the removable first and second end blocks, and the concave support block.
US08834687B2	Multilayer self-decontaminating coatings A layered construction for use in decontaminating a surface or enclosed space is described. The construction is an electrochemical cell which includes a cathode, an electrolyte layer, an anode and a protective surface layer. A precursor compound that can be electrically decomposed to release an oxidant, on demand and over an extended period of time, is included in the layered structure, preferably in the electrolyte layer. The oxidant compounds react with various different chemical or biological contaminants in contact the protective layer, thereby deactivating, destroying or devitalizing the contaminants. The layered construction is suitable for application to a device or substrate, or placement in an enclosed space, and can be used on sensitive surfaces such as electronic components and human skin.
US08834681B1	Apparatus and methods of manufacturing fibrous nonwoven materials and products comprising the same In an exemplary embodiment, the disclosed drying and dewatering system comprises an air knife and a vacuum slot, wherein the air knife is positioned over the vacuum slot and fibrous nonwoven material is passed under the air knife and over the vacuum slot. The embodiments of the present disclosure may be used to achieve greater water removal and more uniform binding agent distribution across the nonwoven fibrous material.
US08834677B2	Tissue having high improved cross-direction stretch The present invention provides tissue products having an MD/CD Tensile Ratio less than about 0.95, yet relatively high geometric tensile strength, such as geometric mean tensile strengths greater than about 1500 g/3″ and more preferably greater than about 2000 g/3″. The combination of a tough, yet relatively supple sheet is preferably achieved by subjecting the embryonic web to a speed differential as it is passed from one fabric in the papermaking process to another, commonly referred to as rush transfer.
US08834674B2	Plasma etching apparatus According to one embodiment, a plasma etching apparatus includes an electrode to which a high-frequency voltage is applied, having an upper surface along which a processing target substrate is to be placed, and having an inclined side, and an electrode cover provided along the side of the electrode.
US08834671B2	Apparatus and method for controlling silicon nitride etching tank A method and apparatus for controlling a silicon nitride etching bath provides the etching bath including phosphoric acid heated to an elevated temperature. The concentration of silicon in the phosphoric acid is controlled to maintain a desired level associated with a desired silicon nitride/silicon oxide etch selectivity. Silicon concentration is measured while the silicon remains in soluble form and prior to silica precipitation. Responsive to the measuring, fresh heated phosphoric acid is added to the etching bath when necessary to maintain the desired concentration and silicon nitride:silicon oxide etch selectivity and prevent silica precipitation. The addition of fresh heated phosphoric acid enables the etching bath to remain at a steady state temperature. Atomic absorption spectroscopy may be used to monitor the silicon concentration which may be obtained by diluting a sample of phosphoric acid with cold deionized water and measuring before silica precipitation occurs.
US08834667B2	Method for joining sandwich truss core panels and composite structures produced therefrom Fluted core sandwich panels are joined together to form a composite structure. Variations in panel ends are accommodated by a core stiffener insert installed in a joint between ends of the panels.
US08834664B2	Photovoltaic modules for use in vehicle roofs, and/or methods of making the same Certain example embodiments relate to techniques for creating improved photovoltaic (PV) modules. In certain example embodiments and first and second glass substrate are provided. A PV array is provided between the first and second glass substrates. The first and second substrates are laminated together with the PV array between the glass substrates. In certain example embodiments the PV module is dimensioned to be similar to an existing roof system (e.g., a sunroof) in a vehicle. In certain example embodiments, holes are provided in a PV module sandwiched between two substrates, the holes being shaped and arranged within the PV module so as to allow light transmission into the vehicle at desired level while still being substantially filled by the laminate or adhesive material used to secure the PV module to the two surrounding substrates.
US08834663B2	Electrodeionization device including ion exchange spacer and method of assembly A method for assembling an electrodeionization device comprising providing in a sequential arrangement: an anode, membrane cell assembly, cathode; wherein the membrane cell assembly comprises at least one sequential arrangement of: a cation exchange membrane, concentrating chamber, anion exchange membrane, diluting chamber, cation exchange membrane, concentrating chamber and anion exchange membrane. The method includes locating an ion exchange spacer in at least one chamber of the membrane cell assembly wherein an ion exchange spacer comprises an ion exchange resin and a dissolvable binder.
US08834659B2	Embossing device The aim of the invention is to improve the supply of transfer foil in a coating module in which the image-forming layers of a transfer foil are transferred to a printing material. To achieve this, a partial pressing surface is located in the coating module for transferring the layers of the transfer foil. This permits targeted control of the foil feed. The transfer foil can be fed past a pressure cylinder in an approximately tangential manner and with a limited width.
US08834654B1	Reactive polyurehthane adhesive for explosive to metal bonding An adhesive may bond a plastic bonded explosive to a metal surface. The adhesive may include a mixture of hydroxyl-terminated polybutadiene (HTPB) and isophorone di-isocyanate (IPDI) in a weight ratio in the range of about 5 to 1 to about 10 to 1. The adhesive may include a solvent and/or a catalyst.
US08834650B2	Medical implement cleaning device A system for cleaning a site of a medical implement is disclosed. The system can include a strip of flexible material and a plurality of cleaning devices attached to the strip. Each cleaning device can include a cap, one or more protrusions, and a cleaning agent. The cap can be selectively removable from the strip of flexible material and can have an inner cavity that is sealed when the cleaning device is attached to the strip and unsealed upon removal of the cleaning device from the strip. The inner cavity can receive a site of the medical implement. The one or more protrusions can extend inwardly from the inner cavity and can engage corresponding protrusions on the site of the medical implement. The cleaning agent can occupy at least some of the inner cavity and can be formulated to clean the site of the medical implement.
US08834648B2	Dishwasher with controlled rotation of lower spray arm An automatic dishwasher having first and second sprayers located within a washtub, a diverter valve to selectively divert liquid flowing from the wash chamber between the first and second sprayers, and a drive system moving the first sprayer in the wash chamber.
US08834645B2	Dishwasher having a sorption drying device A dishwasher is provided that includes a washing container; a spray device accommodated in the washing container; an air-guiding channel to generate an air flow; and a sorption drying system to dry items to be washed. The sorption drying system has a sorption container with reversibly dehydratable sorption material, wherein the sorption container is connected to the washing container by the air-guiding channel and wherein the sorption container has an outflow opening. The dishwasher further includes an outflow device that is connected to the outflow opening of the sorption container and arranged in the interior of the washing container such that air blown out from the outflow device is substantially directed away from the spray device.
US08834643B2	Method and composition for cleaning objects A method for cleaning objects made of organic or inorganic materials, wherein the relevant material is brought into contact with a composition in the form of a fluid nanophase system, comprising a) at least one water-insoluble substance having a water solubility of less than 4 grams per liter, b) at least one amphiphilic substance (NP-MCA) which has no surfactant structure, is not structure-forming on its own, the solubility of which in water or oil ranges between 4 g and 1000 g per liter and which does not preferably accumulate at the oil-water interface, c) at least one anionic, cationic, amphoteric and/or non-ionic surfactant, d) at least one polar protic solvent, in particular having hydroxy functionality, e) if necessary one or more auxiliary substance.
US08834640B2	Method and device for treating containers The invention relates to a method and to a device for treating containers relating especially to cleaning plastic bottles (1) preferably in the inverted position. Each container is thereby subjected to a treatment medium (16) applied and/or introduced thereto. Electrically charged ions introduced into the treatment medium (16) serve to balance the charge of each container. According to the invention, the treatment medium (16) is tested for the presence of ions.
US08834635B2	Degreasing compositions derived from levulinic acid (a compound obtainable from biomass) and process for degreasing metal surfaces The present invention relates to a new degreasing composition comprising at least one levulinic acid ester according to general formula (I) CH3CO(CH2)2COOR1 (I) in which R1 is a linear or branched, saturated or unsaturated, aliphatic or aromatic, hydrocarbon radical having 2 to 56 carbon atoms, wherein said hydrocarbon radical is optionally hydroxysubstituted. The present invention also relates to a process for degreasing a metal surface comprising the step of contacting said metal surface with the composition of the present invention.
US08834633B2	Pre-treatment of cellulosic material A method of pre-treating a cellulosic material before hydrolysis is provided. The method comprises the steps of: impregnating the cellulosic material with a reactive water-soluble gas, such as sulphur dioxide (SO2) or carbon dioxide (CO2), in an impregnation chamber to obtain impregnated material; and heating the impregnated material to obtain pre-treated material, wherein the cellulosic material is compressed right before or when it is transferred to the impregnation chamber. A corresponding system is also provided.
US08834632B2	Apparatus and system for manufacturing a carbon nanotube In a method of manufacturing a carbon nanotube, a boat configured to receive substrates is positioned outside of a synthesis space where the carbon nanotube is synthesized. The substrates are loaded into the boat. The boat is then transferred to the synthesis space. A process for forming the carbon nanotube is performed on the substrates in the synthesis space to form the carbon nanotube. Thus, the carbon nanotube may be effectively manufactured.
US08834626B2	Impurity inerting composition A method for inerting clays in sands which are intended for the preparation of hydraulic compositions, the method including a step of adding to the hydraulic composition, or to one of the constituents thereof, a composition which may include at least 50% by weight of a cationic polymer which has a density of cationic charges which is greater than 0.5 meq/g and an intrinsic viscosity which is less than 1 dl/g as an active substance. The hydraulic composition may be a concrete or a mortar.
US08834623B2	Water repellent materials for wood products A method of manufacturing a wood product including using a water and wax mixture with wood particles in a production process of wood products, wherein the wax mixture includes a hydrocarbon wax, and a water-repellant material selected from the group consisting of (a) an asphaltite, (b) a polyolefin copolymer, (c) a polyolefin synthetic wax, and (d) combinations thereof, and forming a wood product.
US08834622B2	Investment casting The invention provides novel binder, slurry and dry mix compositions for use in the production of investment casting moulds. These compositions comprise water insoluble fibers and significant amounts of uncalcined clay. The compositions display favorable separation characteristics and short drying times. The moulds formed using the compositions have a favourable green strength and conform closely to the wax pattern on which the mould is coated. Also provided are methods of producing the compositions, methods of investment casting mould production utilising the compositions and investment casting coating shells produced using the compositions of the invention.
US08834618B2	Method of inhibiting water adsorption of powder by addition of hydrophobic nanoparticles Presently described are methods of inhibiting water vapor adsorption of a powder and methods of storing a powder at increased humidity level. The methods comprise providing adding discrete hydrophobic nanoparticles to a plurality of particles.
US08834614B2	Water recovery system and method A system and method recover water from an ambient airstream. Dehumidification of the airstream is also achieved by removal of the water. A device of the system includes a chamber having a group of trays that hold respective amounts of liquid desiccant in each tray. A foam media absorbs the desiccant to increase an exposed surface of the desiccant to the airstream. Fans and valves are used to control airflow through the device. A charge cycle circulates air through the device to remove water vapor from the airstream. A subsequent extraction cycle removes water collected in the liquid desiccant by a condenser communicating with the chamber. An integral heat exchanger adds heat to the chamber during the extraction cycle. A controller is used to integrate and manage all system functions and input variables to achieve a high efficiency of operational energy use for water collection.
US08834612B2	Hydrogen separation apparatus and process for manufacturing the same A hydrogen separation apparatus, provided with an independent hydrogen permeable membrane, capable of suppressing or preventing deformation of the hydrogen permeable membrane. The hydrogen separation apparatus includes a porous support member, an independent hydrogen permeable membrane disposed adjacent to the porous support member, and a joining member for joining the porous support member and the hydrogen permeable membrane. A production process for the hydrogen separation apparatus includes (1) disposing a joining member forming material at a surface side of a porous support member, to be opposite to an independent hydrogen permeable membrane, (2) disposing the independent hydrogen permeable membrane adjacent to the porous support member at the surface side of the porous support member to which surface side the joining member forming material is disposed, and (3) joining the porous support member and the independent hydrogen permeable membrane with the joining member forming material.
US08834611B1	Method for filtering air A method for air filtration having a plurality of interlocking filters for use in an HVAC system or in other air filtration systems. Each interlocking filter can have a pleated filter media, a first frame, a second frame for supporting the first frame, an adhesive to connecting the pleated filter media to the first frame and the first frame to the second frame, and a one piece non-rigid flexible integral locking mechanism for connecting together the interlocking filters without clips or glue in a quick connect and quick disconnect manner.
US08834607B2	Removal of krypton and xenon impurities from argon by MOF adsorbent Disclosed is a system and method for removing trace levels of krypton and xenon from argon by using metal organic framework (MOF) adsorbents.
US08834604B2	High temperature gas processing system and method for making the same A membrane for use in a high temperature gas processing system and method for making the same. The membrane includes a dense, gas impermeable layer and a first and second porous layer, wherein each of the first and second porous layers is a ceramic oxide material having a non-symmetrical load bearing skeleton of a plurality of pores having a graded porosity. Each porous layer provides a reduction of an oxygen partial pressure gradient across the dense layer and reduces resultant stresses in the dense layer that are small compared to its strength thereby improving long term mechanical durability of the dense layer.
US08834600B2	Extraction process for reactive metal oxides The present invention relates to a zero-waste process for extraction of alumina from different types of bauxite ores and red mud residues and of titanium dioxide from ilmenite. Iron oxide is first reduced to metallic iron above the melting point of C-saturated cast iron alloy which yields a high-C iron alloy and an Al and Ti metal oxide rich slag which is then treated with alkali carbonate to form alkali aluminates and titanates. The alkali aluminates are separated by water leaching from which the hydroxide of alumina is precipitated by bubbling C02. The residue from water leaching is treated with sulphuric acid and Ti02 is precipitated via a hydrolysis route. The process recovers most of the metal values and generates only small quantities of silicious residues at pH 4-5 which can be used for soil conditioning. The present also relates to a method for selective separation of Ti02-rich oxides from titaniferrous ore/residue materials via oxidative roasting in the presence of alkali carbonate or carbonates followed by aqueous leaching of the roasted material and selective precipitation of Ti02 under controlled condition below pH=4.
US08834596B2	Method for pretreating sintering material A method for pretreating a sintering material using as a material at least two types of iron ore containing coarse grains and fine powder, using a first granulator to make the fine powder stick to coarse grains forming core grains so as to produce S-type granules, and using a second granulator to granulate only fine powder or mainly fine powder to produce P-type granules, which method producing the S-type granules by adjusting an amount of fine powder supplied into said first granulator so that the average stuck thickness of fine powder to the core grains becomes 50 to 300 μm and supplying the remaining fine powder not supplied to said first granulator to the second granulator.
US08834595B2	Powder metal ultrasonic welding tool and method of manufacture thereof An ultrasonic welding tool fabricated of powder metal material includes a body and a welding tip extending axially from the body to a working end. The powder metal material can be ferrous-based and admixed with additives, such as alumina, carbide, ferro-molybdenum, ferro-nickel, chrome or tribaloy. An exposed surface of the welding tip can comprise Fe3O4 oxides. The tool is compacted to the desired shape and sintered. The body can include a different second material compacted separately from the welding tip and then joined to the tip and sintered.
US08834585B2	Hydrogen generating device A hydrogen generating device is adapted for a fuel cell. The hydrogen generating device includes a casing, a button, a solid reactant, a bag-shaped body, and at least one flexible element. The casing has a containing space and an opening. The button is integrally formed and connected to the casing to seal the opening. The solid reactant is disposed in the casing. The bag-shaped body is disposed in the casing and contains a liquid reactant. The flexible element is connected to the casing and is located in the containing space. The flexible element includes a bending end, wherein the flexible element is aligned to the button and is located between the button and the bag-shaped body. When the button is pressed, the button pushes the flexible element so the bending end pierces the bag-shaped body, and the liquid reactant flows out and reacts with the solid reactant to generate hydrogen.
US08834584B2	Method of assembly and apparatus for cooling syngas A syngas cooler for use in a gasification system is described that includes a head portion including a plurality of conduit headers. The syngas cooler also includes an annular shell portion including a plurality of conduits, the plurality of conduits configured to be coupled in flow communication with the plurality of conduit headers. The syngas cooler also includes a quench portion configured to remove particulates entrained in a flow of syngas flowing through the syngas cooler. The head portion and the shell portion are configured to be coupled together with a circumferential seam weld.
US08834583B2	Nano-sized zinc oxide particles for fuel A fuel composition contains a liquid fuel and a specific amount of nano-sized zinc oxide particles and a surfactant that does not contain sulfur atoms. The nano-sized zinc oxide particles can be used to either improve combustion or increase catalytic chemical oxidation of fuel.
US08834582B2	Apparatus for manufacturing semiconductor wafer The present invention provides an apparatus for manufacturing semiconductor wafer comprising at least two manipulators, at least one set of chemical gas/liquid distribution unit and an air circulating and filtering unit. The air circulating and filtering unit is separated into three regions, including the front region, the middle region, and the side region, which are controlled by respective control electric motors to achieve uniform air flow and uniform pressure in the respective regions. The cleaning degree in the internal of the apparatus can be improved by the regional control of the air circulating and filtering unit; the wafer transport efficiency can be enhanced by the double-armed manipulators having multiple degrees of freedom; and the product yield per unit area can be increased by the chemical gas/liquid distribution unit providing stable and uniform gas/liquid flow and pressure.
US08834581B2	Disazo dyes, preparation and use Described are dyes of formula (I) where R1 is hydrogen, alkyl, alkoxy, trifluoromethyl or halogen, M is hydrogen, an alkali metal cation or an optionally substituted ammonium cation, R2 and R3 are each independently hydrogen, alkyl or alkoxy, R4 is alkyl or alkoxy, R5 and R6 are each independently moieties of the formula —(CmH2m)—O—CnH2n+1, m is an integer from 3 to 6, and n is an integer from 0 to 8. These dyes are useful for dyeing and printing materials having polar groups.
US08834572B2	Arthrodesis implant The invention relates to an implant (1) for osseous fusion between two bones, including a first portion (20) having a longitudinal axis A, for being inserted in the first bone and including a first means (24) for attaching said implant in said first bone, and a second portion (30) having a longitudinal axis B, for being inserted in the second bone and including a second means (34) for attaching said implant in said second bone, said first and second portions (20, 30) being connected by a central core (40), said central core being a solid body, the cross-section of which, in a plane perpendicular to said longitudinal axis A, has the shape of a star having at least three points (41, 42, 43), said first portion having three tabs (21, 22, 23), each tab extending along said longitudinal axis A from the free end (41a, 42a, 43a) of one of the points of said central core.
US08834567B2	Middle ear prosthesis having discrete projections for purposes of ossicular attachment A middle ear ossicle prosthesis in which the component for ossicular attachment comprises a surface bearing a plurality of discrete projections facing the ossicle to which it is attached which minimize total contact between the prosthesis and the ossicle. The prosthesis may comprise a loop forming a partial circle for encircling an ossicle, a piston for transmitting vibrations from the loop to the inner ear, and a rod solidly connecting the loop to the piston. The loop may have an upwardly turned end to facilitate placement of the loop over the ossicle. The projections may be provided in one row, two rows, or may be otherwise arrayed, and may be dissimilar from one another in configuration and dimensions.
US08834560B2	Endoprosthesis Among other things, a bio-erodible implantable endoprosthesis comprises a member that includes (a) a core having a surface, and (b) a bio-erodible metal on a least a portion of the surface of the core, wherein the bio-erodible metal erodes more slowly than the core and includes openings through which physiological fluids can access the core upon implantation.
US08834557B2	Bioabsorbable polymeric medical device In embodiments there is described a cardiovascular tube-shaped lockable and expandable bioabsorbable scaffold having a low immunogenicity manufactured from a crystallizable bioabsorbable polymer composition or blend.
US08834556B2	Segmented scaffold designs Segmented scaffolds composed of disconnected scaffold segments with overlapping end rings are disclosed. Scaffolds with at least one discontinuous link are also disclosed.
US08834553B2	Anchors with biodegradable constraints An implant includes a collapsible anchor to be deployed within a lumen and a protrusion coupled to the anchor. The protrusion, in a constrained state, extends a distance from an exterior surface of the anchor and, in an unconstrained state, extends further from the exterior surface of the anchor. Also included is a biodegradable constraint, such as a biodegradable tube or suture, configured to maintain the protrusion in the constrained state until the constraint releases. The implant may include additional biodegradable constraints, each constraint configured to maintain the protrusion in a different constrained state and to degrade over a different predetermined period after the implant has been deployed within the lumen. The protrusion may include a bi-directional barb or an open loop. The protrusion may be configured to penetrate a wall of the lumen and to allow tissue to grow about the protrusion. The implant may also include an unsupported, thin-walled sleeve coupled to the anchor and configured to extend into the lumen upon deployment of the collapsible anchor.
US08834551B2	Vascular device with valve for approximating vessel wall A vascular device comprising a body movable from a collapsed insertion position to an expanded position having a larger cross-sectional dimension. The body includes a plurality of struts. At least two elongated struts extend distally from the body. A plurality of vessel engaging members extend outwardly from the body for engaging the internal wall of a vessel. A valve is movable between a collapsed delivery position and an expanded placement position, wherein at least a portion of the valve extends distally from the body in the delivery and placement positions and the elongated struts engage a distal portion of the valve in the placement position of the valve to retain the valve.
US08834549B2	One-step phosphorylcholine-linked polymer coating and drug loading of stent A one step method for drug coating an interventional device is disclosed by mixing a drug with a phosphorylcholine-linked methacrylate polymer in a liquid and applying the mixture to an interventional device, such as a stent, in a single step.
US08834548B2	Systems and methods to regulate body temperature Systems and methods are disclosed for regulating body temperature. The system includes a housing that comprises compartments for a phase change material and a heat transfer material. The compartments are configured to transfer heat from the heat transfer material to the phase change material. A temperature sensor is used to determine when the phase change material has reached a pre-determined temperature. When the pre-determined temperature is reached, a release mechanism or lever is coupled to the temperature sensor to separate the phase change material compartment from the heat transfer material compartment or to remove the heat transfer material away from the phase change material compartment. The heated phase change material compartment can be used to regulate body temperature.
US08834545B2	Optical-stimulation cochlear implant with electrode(s) at the apical end for electrical stimulation of apical spiral ganglion cells of the cochlea Method and apparatus for optically and electrically stimulating neurons of auditory nerve pathways of a person to provide auditory sensations for the person including generating a plurality of pulsed light signals having one or more successive pulses, delivering the plurality of pulsed light signals to one or more auditory nerve pathways of the cochlea of the person and selectively controlling the plurality of light signals to optically stimulate and trigger nerve action potentials (NAPs) in the one or more auditory nerve pathways. In some embodiments, the present invention also includes one or more electrical stimulation electrodes used to stimulate the low frequency portions of the auditory nerves.
US08834540B2	Polyaxial bone screw with lateral connector A polyaxial screw body includes a side wall defining a lumen having a first end and a second end. An opening disposed at the first end of the lumen, includes an interior surface disposed in the side wall thereabout. The interior surface is adapted to accommodate a head portion of a pedicle screw. A transverse channel extends from a first aperture through the side wall to a second aperture and is adapted to accommodate a portion of a fixation rod therebetween. A lateral connector extending integrally from the side wall.
US08834534B2	Scapholunate stabilization implant A scapholunate stabilization graft is made up of an oblong plate, made of a material having a resilient deformation capability. The ends of the plate are provided with at least one hole enabling an attachment screw to pass therethrough, and the central portion of which has an opening defined by two opposite sides. A spring connects two remote points of said sides, said spring being placed along the diagonal within said opening.
US08834533B2	Dynamic plate system having moveable segments A plating system includes moveable plate segments to vary the overall length of the plate. The plating system is capable of both passive and active dynamization and has the ability to produce the former from the latter.
US08834528B2	Spinal fixation device and technique for expansion of the spinal canal A fixation device expands the spinal canal through osteotomies of the dorsal spinal elements (e.g lamina). Fixation is established to the dorsal vertebral elements (e.g. spinous process or lamina), with connection to a fixation device on each side of respective osteotomies. A distracting mechanism dorsally translates the fixated dorsal vertebral elements to expand the spinal canal. The fixation device allows secure fixation of the vertebra in the expanded state to promote bony healing across the osteotomy site. The fixation device can include a dorsal vertebral device (e.g., a transosseous fixation member placed through the spinous process) connected to a vertebral fixation device (e.g., bone screw or rod) by a connecting device with distracting mechanism. The connecting device spans the respective osteotomy, includes the distracting mechanism, and translates (lifts) the dorsal vertebral device from the vertebral fixation device in a dorsal direction to promote spinal canal expansion.
US08834527B2	Systems and methods for manipulating and/or installing a pedicle screw A spinal screw assembly adapted to be secured to a vertebrae for providing securement across at least two vertebrae. The assembly includes a pedicle screw having a substantially spherical head portion, a threaded shaft portion, and an engagement surface in the head portion for driving said screw into the vertebrae, and a body member comprising a tower portion having an open top, a break-away section for manipulation of the screw upon implantation into the vertebrae, a base body at a proximal region of the body member and a break zone which acts as a transition between the base body and the tower portion. A resealably securable setscrew within the body member secures and fully contains the rod within said assembly. The break-away section remains completely outside a wound and is removed or broken off once the screw has been fully assembled inside the vertebrae.
US08834526B2	Methods and apparatus for treating spinal stenosis This invention relates generally to spine surgery and, in particular, to methods and apparatus for treating spinal stenosis.
US08834525B2	Mood pacifier An infant pacifier has a temperature sensitive material mounted on the front forming a “mood stone”. The front of the pacifier would change color based on the body temperature of the infant using the pacifier. The pacifier includes a metal strip or other temperature conductive material that connects to the metal frame of the mood stone and wraps around to come in contact with the baby's lips when the baby is sucking on the pacifier. The metal strip carries the heat from the baby to the stone, facilitating color change as the child's temperature changes.
US08834517B2	Portable pneumatic abdominal aortic tourniquet A portable pneumatic abdominal aortic tourniquet for occlusion of the abdominal descending aorta to restrict blood supply to a non-compressible arterial hemorrhage in the abdominal region. The tourniquet comprising an adjustable waist strap for securing around an abdomen; a directed air bladder mounted to the waist strap having a generally “V” shaped construction operable between a deflated condition wherein the directed air bladder is collapsed, and an inflated condition wherein the directed air bladder is expanded for exerting pressure against the abdomen; and, an air source connected to the directed air bladder for operating the directed air bladder between the deflated condition and the inflated condition.
US08834515B2	Mechanically detachable vaso-occlusive device A device for delivering an occlusive element includes an elongate pusher member having a lumen. A locking member is disposed within the lumen of the elongate pusher member. A moveable elongate releasing member is disposed within the lumen of the elongate pusher member. A filament is secured to the distal end of the elongate releasing member. The occlusive member is locked to the elongate releasing member when the filament passes through a securing member on the occlusive member and is pinched or wedged between the locking member and the elongate releasing member. The occlusive element is in an unlocked state when the elongate releasing member is retracted proximally relative to the elongate pusher member. The filament, along with the elongate releasing member, are retracted proximally until the filament is detached or uncoupled from the securing member of the occlusive member.
US08834511B2	External nasal dilator and methods of manufacture The present invention relates to external devices for dilating nasal passageways and to the manufacture thereof. More specifically, the external nasal dilator of the present invention usually comprises a resilient sheet, an adhesive layer, and an adhesive-protecting sheet. In some embodiments of the external nasal dilator, the resilient sheet defines a groove for reducing the peel force that results from bending the dilator over the bridge of the nose. In addition to the groove or in lieu thereof, some embodiments of the external nasal dilator comprise a nasal passage region having a reduced width to reduce the peel force. Finally, the dilator can comprise a sheet of adhesive tape, which in some embodiments can provide an instant tack surface to facilitate application of the dilator.
US08834508B2	Methods, tools and devices for percutaneous access in minimally invasive spinal surgeries A cannula assembly for providing percutaneous access in minimally invasive spinal surgeries, includes an outer cannula, a nerve probe dilator and a multistage dilator system comprising a first dilator, a second dilator, a third dilator and a fourth dilator. The outer cannula and the dilators are slidable relative to each other and are arranged sequentially so that the fourth dilator surrounds the nerve probe dilator, the third dilator slides over a surface of the fourth dilator, the second dilator slides over a surface of the third dilator, the first dilator slides over a surface of the second dilator, and the outer cannula surrounds the first dilator.
US08834506B2	Method for puncturing the pericardial membrane by synchronizing needle advancement with cardiac muscle motion A method for puncturing a pericardial membrane of a human patient, the method comprising inserting a needle into the chest of the human patient, detecting a phase of a mechanical activity of the heart of the human patient, advancing the needle toward the heart of the human patient in synchronization with the detected phase of the mechanical activity of the heart of the human patient, and repeating the detecting and advancing steps until the pericardial membrane of the human patient is punctured.
US08834503B2	Lancet having adjustable penetration depth Lancet device including a first housing. A first guide wall is disposed within the first housing. The first guide wall includes an opening. A cap removably mounted to the first housing. A needle holding member for holding a lancet. At least a portion of the needle holding member being able to move within the opening. A first spring for biasing the needle holding member toward an extended position. The first spring surrounding a portion of the needle holding member and being disposed between the first guide wall and a shoulder of the needle holding member. A movable trigger having a first position and a second position. A movable second housing including a proximal end, a distal end and a second guide wall arranged at the proximal end. The second guide wall including an opening. A portion of the needle holding member being able to move within the opening of the second guide wall. The second housing being configured to move the needle holding member to the retracted position when the second housing is moved away from the first housing. The proximal end of the second housing being configured to move axially within the distal end of the first housing. A second spring for biasing the second housing towards the first housing. The second spring surrounding a portion of the needle holding member and being disposed between the second guide wall and another shoulder of the needle holding member. At least a portion of the needle holding member is always retained within the first housing.
US08834501B2	Scissors assembly An endoscopic scissor instrument includes an elongate hollow member, an actuator that moves axially through the hollow member, and first and second scissor blades with respective cutting surfaces. At least one of the scissor blades is rotatably coupled to the hollow member adjacent its distal end. At least one of the scissor blades includes a base supporting a resilient leaf-spring portion that includes a respective cutting edge. The resilient leaf-spring portion extends from the base in a cantilevered arrangement and generates a spring force acting on the respective cutting edge such that in a loaded state there is an automatic preload force imparted between the cutting edges of the scissor blades to maintain a consistent and continuous mating force between the two opposed sharpened cutting edges preferably over the complete range of rotational movement of the scissor blades.
US08834497B2	Sub-cortical suture cutter An arthroscopic suture cutting device according to embodiments of the invention includes an outer tube; an inner rod including an outer surface and an aperture, a distalmost edge of a second distal opening located distally of a distalmost edge of a first distal opening, the inner rod can receive a suture extending through both distal openings; in a loading position, the inner rod extends distally of the outer tube to receive the suture; in an intermediate position, the distal openings are closer to the outer tube, such that the suture is permitted to slide through the aperture without release; and in a cut position, the distalmost edges of the distal openings are within the outer tube. Moving from intermediate position to cut position draws the suture between outer tube and inner rod, urging the inner rod radially toward the second distal opening, cutting the suture between the outer tube and the distalmost edge of the second distal opening.
US08834495B2	Independent suture tensioning and snaring apparatus In repairing soft tissue with a bone anchoring instrument (such as reattaching a tendon of a torn rotator cuff), the bone anchoring instrument may be used to anchor the soft tissue to a region of bone. The anchors inserted into the underlying bone may have one or more lengths of suture or wire attached thereto which may be tensioned independently of one another to affix the soft tissue to the bone by having a selector mechanism selectively engage and disengage ratcheted tensioning wheels from one another. Suture loading mechanisms may be employed for passing suture lengths into and/or through the anchors prior to deployment into the bone where such mechanisms may employ suture snares which are configured to reconfigure from an expanded shape through which suture lengths may be easily passed to a low-profile shape which secures the suture lengths within the snare.
US08834493B2	Device and method for vascular closure A vascular closure delivery system is provided comprising a needle and suture delivery unit and a suture knot system. The delivery unit may comprise a tube, a leg, a tensioning device, a pusher, a needle, and an actuator, the tube being configured to house the needle. In an open position, the tensioning device exerts tension on the leg, and the pusher and suturing apparatus are in a delivery configuration for delivering the needle to the internal tissue wall. Further, actuation of the actuator moves the pusher towards an expulsion end of the tube such that the pusher engages the needle and expels the needle from the tube. The suture knot system comprises a shaft, an inner tubular member, and an inner rod. The inner tubular member is radially translatable with respect to the shaft. The inner rod is slidably coupled to and is axially translatable within the inner tubular member.
US08834489B2	Modular manipulator support for robotic surgery A robotic surgery system comprises a mounting base, a plurality of surgical instruments, and an articulate support assembly. Each instrument is insertable into a patient through an associated minimally invasive aperture to a desired internal surgical site. The articulate support assembly movably supports the instruments relative to the base. The support generally comprises an orienting platform, a platform linkage movably supporting the orienting platform relative to the base, and a plurality of manipulators mounted to the orienting platform, wherein each manipulator movably supports an associated instrument.
US08834487B2	Systems and methods for preventing intravasation during intrauterine procedures Systems, methods, apparatus and devices for performing improved gynecologic and urologic procedures are disclosed. Patient benefit is achieved through improved outcomes, reduced pain, especially peri-procedural pain, and reduced recovery times. The various embodiments enable procedures to be performed outside the hospital setting, such as in a doctor's office or clinic. Distension is achieved mechanically, rather than with liquid distension media, thereby eliminating the risk of intravasation.
US08834486B2	Femoral guide for implanting a femoral knee prosthesis Disclosed is a method of selecting a femoral prosthetic for implantation relative to a femur using a femoral sizing guide. An extension portion of the femoral sizing guide is placed adjacent to a posterior condyle surface of the femur. A stylus is located proximate to an interior condyle surface of the femur. A first actuator disposed between the extension portion and a base portion is moved to rotatably displace the extension portion with respect to the base portion until the stylus is centrally located on top of the interior condyle. A measurement of the femur is identified with the sizing guide based on a relative location of the stylus, the extension portion and the base portion. A femoral prosthesis is selected based on the measurement.
US08834479B2	Prosthetic acetabular cup inserter and impactor A prosthetic acetabular cup inserter and impactor has a body, and a cup engaging element disposed at a first end of the body and adapted to engage an inner surface of a cup with which it is used via outward biasing of the cup engaging element. The cup engaging element increases in cross-sectional area from an inner end thereof to a fullest transverse section, and decreases in cross-sectional area from said fullest transverse section to an outer end thereof. The cup engaging element has a tapered central bore engaged by a conically tapered actuation element moveable in the bore. The cup engaging element has a slot therethrough allowing the element to resiliently expand on movement of the actuator in the bore.
US08834474B2	Single action anti-torque rod reducer Provided is a novel rod reducing device for use in spinal fixation procedures. The device is capable with a single action of securely grasping the head of a bone screw while reducing a connecting rod into the head of the bone screw and while in position on the bone screw provide a cannula access for a bone screw locking cap and tightening instrument and securing the bone screw during the tightening of the locking cap so as to provide an anti-torque effect. The device is also capable of releasing from the bone screw with a reversal of the single action used to activate the device. A method of using the device and a kit wherein the device is one component is also provided.
US08834471B2	Angled reamer spindle for minimally invasive hip replacement surgery A reamer for use in minimally invasive hip replacement surgical approaches is provided. The reamer spindle includes an elongate housing portion that extends along a first axis and a neck or distal portion that extends along a second axis, wherein the second axis extends at an angle of between about 35 degrees and about 65 degrees relative to the first axis. A reamer head is removably connectable to the distal neck portion and has a surface configured to cut bone.
US08834468B2	Bone stabilization device and method There is disclosed a device and method for stabilizing a bone. The device includes a polymer with a glass transition temperature. The polymer is relatively deformable at a temperature above the glass transition temperature and relatively rigid at a temperature below the glass transition temperature. The device, while the polymer is above the glass transition temperature, is responsive to a bending force to bend during insertion into the intramedullary canal of the bone. The device, while the polymer is below the glass transition temperature, is relatively rigid and able to provide reinforcement to the bone.
US08834455B2	Attachment device for attaching a rigid body to an arbitrary medical instrument The invention relates to an attachment adapter for attaching additional functions to a surgical tool. The attachment adapter provides a joint or a coupling between two instruments, e.g. a surgical tool and a navigation marker. The attachment adapter comprises an attachment body for attaching a surgical tool to the attachment adapter and a mounting seat with a mechanical coupling for fastening an add-on device to the attachment adapter. The attachment body comprises an elongate part adapted to receive the winding of a line and provided with at least two legs adapted to fit in an astride position on an elongate part of a surgical tool. It also comprises a line securing means adapted for securing a line, wound around the attachment body to join the attachment adapter to the surgical tool, in a locking position.
US08834448B1	Side port catheter device and method for accessing side branch occlusions A medical device and method are provided for accessing a side branch in an artery. The device includes a catheter having a sidewall, an internal lumen, and a side port formed through the sidewall. A perforating guide wire has a proximal portion within the internal lumen and a distal portion arranged to be movable out of the side port. The guide wire can be delivered through the side port to a side branch artery when the catheter is deployed to a location with the side port aligned with the side branch artery. In another embodiment, the catheter has inner and outer telescoping tubes with offset exit ports formed therein. The telescoping tubes can be used to change the degree of deflection of the perforating guide wire by changing the relative positions of the offset exit ports.
US08834446B2	Pulsatile flux drug delivery A method of delivering a therapeutic fluid to the tissue of a mammal using pulsatile flux to prevent fluid backflow.
US08834440B2	Pants type disposable diaper The present invention aims to provide a pants type disposable diaper free from noticeable gathers formed on the innermost side of the crotch region. In the crotch region of the pants type disposable diaper, the bodily fluid-absorbent core is sandwiched between the liquid-permeable inner sheet and the liquid-impermeable outer sheet. Further inside the inner sheet, the innermost sheet is provided and this innermost sheet prevents the inner sheet from coming in contact with the wearer's skin. The innermost sheet is joined, in the regions extending in the vicinity of the ends thereof opposite in the front-back direction A, to at least one of the inner sheet and the outer sheet. The innermost sheet includes, in its region defined on the transverse center line P of the diaper, the tuck extending downward toward the inner sheet.
US08834435B2	Blood plasma collecting flask The invention relates to a blood plasma collecting flask made of plastic for the storage of blood plasma in the frozen state, comprising a flask body (1) which in the horizontal section has a cross-section with a rectangular basic shape and has on its upper side a flask neck (2), wherein the lateral faces of the flask body (2) respectively define a flat or slightly inwardly curved area (3) adjoining which are areas rounded towards the face surfaces.
US08834434B2	Closed incision negative pressure wound therapy device and methods of use A surgical tissue therapy device includes a sealant layer and a collection chamber. The sealant layer functions so as to create a sealed enclosure or space between it and the surface of a patient by forming, preferably, an airtight seal around a surgical area of skin trauma. The closed incision tissue therapy device also comprises a collection chamber, which may comprise an elongate tubular chamber with a plurality of longitudinally spaced openings. The collection chamber may be configured to be in fluid communication with the sealant layer and the area of skin trauma and functions as to distribute the negative pressure applied to a surgically closed area of skin trauma. Preferably, the pressure under the sealant layer is reduced by expanding the volume of the enclosure space and thereby decreasing the density of air molecules under the sealant layer. The collection material may comprise a material and/or a configuration that permits length changes based upon the length of the corresponding surgical wound or incision.
US08834422B2	Vascular access assembly and safety device A safety intravenous (IV) catheter assembly is disclosed which includes a safety device having a housing defining a cavity and distal and proximal openings, and a biasing member positioned within the cavity. The biasing member is movable from a first position to a second position to tilt the housing in relation to the needle when the needle tip is withdrawn through the distal opening of the housing to misalign the needle tip and the distal opening. A blocking arm is provided on the biasing member to prevent the biasing member from moving from the second position back to the first position.
US08834419B2	Reusable auto-injector An injection device comprises a first sub-assembly comprising a chamber for holding a fluid and a transfer assembly moveably disposed within the chamber. The chamber comprises an exit aperture and an inner surface and the transfer assembly has an outer surface substantially in contact with the inner surface about its perimeter. The transfer assembly is adapted to transfer fluid into the chamber when the transfer assembly is moved within the chamber.
US08834414B2	Method and a catheter device for the dynamic regulation of the venous return to the heart for the treatment of patients with heart failure This invention relates to a method that comprises the introduction of a catheter via left subclavian vein, advancing into the right atrium and then positioning it in the inferior vena cava, just at the cava-diaphragm junction, where it is anchored at its extreme; and thereafter an external inflation of a balloon positioned in said catheter takes place through a physiological solution to reach a diameter corresponding to half the diameter of the inferior vena cava, resulting in hemi-occlusion in the expiration phase (breath-out) and total occlusion for a short period during the inspiration phase (breath-in), regulating (normalizing) the venous return and decreasing the cardiac volume overload, as a treatment for heart failure. The invention also comprises hydromechanics devices to normalize the venous return in the circulatory system. Said venous return is increased in 90% of patients with heart failure. In particular, it refers to a combined catheter with an inflatable balloon, producing said balloon a cyclical occlusion of the inferior vena cava (IVC). The said balloon is adaptable to the area of its location in the inferior vena cava, proximal to the right atrium (RA), which comprises of means for its fixation within said vein, as well as the capacity of modifying the volume in response to the requirements of the patient. This device is implanted for an extended period of more than three months. The final objective is to treat and stop the progression of heart failure.
US08834413B2	Controlling a motor of an injection device In order to improve the energy efficiency of an injection device 100, a current is caused to be applied to a motor 113 of the injection device 100, which is related to a signal from a force sensor 115. The signal represents a force that is applied by the motor 113 to a plunger 122 of a cartridge 121.
US08834412B2	Device for injecting an implant A device for the back-injection of an implant including a holder to allow a user to hold the device, an injection needle, a retainer for retaining the implant before the injection needle, a plunger having a distal part for injecting the implant during withdrawal of the needle, a protective sleeve, capable of adopting an injection position leaving the needle uncovered and a safety position covering the needle again after use of the device, and a spring designed to move the protective sleeve into their safety position, the movement of the spring being controllable by the user.
US08834410B2	Medication Delivery Device An ear medication delivery device for delivering a treatment fluid and retaining the treatment fluid within an ear canal of a patient. The ear medication delivery device can retain the treatment fluid in contact with the ear canal or an eardrum of the patient for a desired time period to provide a therapeutic benefit. In some embodiments, an earplug device can be provided in several sizes for an optimal sealing fit in the ear canal.
US08834405B2	Intestinal sleeve A gastrointestinal implant device is anchored in the duodenum and extends beyond the ligament of Treitz. All food exiting the stomach is funneled through the device. The gastrointestinal device includes an anchor for attaching the device to the duodenum and an unsupported flexible sleeve. The anchor can include a stent and/or a wave anchor and is collapsible for catheter-based delivery and removal.
US08834402B2	System and method for the re-anticoagulation of platelet rich plasma A method for the re-anticoagulation of platelet rich plasma in a blood apheresis system includes priming the blood apheresis system with anticoagulant, such that a volume of anticoagulant is transferred to a PRP container. The method may then transfer the anticoagulant within the PRP container to a red blood cell container, and collect a volume of platelet rich plasma within the PRP container. The platelet rich plasma may be collected in a plurality of cycles. Between collection cycles, the method may transfer a portion of the volume of anticoagulant from the red blood cell container to the PRP container.
US08834401B2	Glucose management and dialysis method and apparatus A process and apparatus are provided for managing and adjusting glucose levels in the blood of a patient during dialysis. The apparatus is a dialysis apparatus to treat patients with renal disease which includes a glucose scavenger to remove excess glucose from the blood before returning the blood to the patient and/or a device to increase blood glucose levels in the blood when the glucose level is below a threshold level. The glucose scavenger can include a glucose binding protein, boronic acid derivative, boronic ester derivative or mixture thereof bonded to the surface of a support such as a fiber bundle in a cartridge or the inner surface of tubing used in the apparatus.
US08834399B2	Cardiopulmonary apparatus and methods for preserving organ viability Apparatus and methods for providing extracorporeal blood circulation and oxygenation control include multi-stage de-airing of blood to provide automated cardiopulmonary replacement to preserve the viability or one or more organs in a clinically dead organ donor or harvested donor organ for subsequent transplantation to an organ receiver patient.
US08834396B2	Build-a-boot A heel supporting and protective boot for bed-ridden patients, comprising unitary exterior and interior body forms which contain fiber filling and an angled foam wedge. Sewn tube holes on both sides allow for insertion of medical tubing. The inner fabric of the boot is antibacterial and moisture absorbent, while the outer fabric is moisture repellant. Left and right “Y-straps” provide secure upper and lower fastening of the boot as it envelops the patient's foot and lower leg. Two “loop” straps and a T-stabilizer stabilize the boot and keep the foot at a 90 degree angle to help eliminate foot drop. An opening at the heel of the boot and a circular cutout in the foam wedge allow the heel to remain exposed to air, provide proper elevation, and enhance blood circulation. The device enhances the healing of existing ulcers and minimizes the occurrence of foot drop and new pressure points.
US08834395B2	Wound dressing for finger/penis and method/system of delivery A system for delivering a medical dressing onto an appendage, such as a finger or penis, of a patient includes a medical dressing defined by a flexible tubular sleeve that is configured to elastically expand radially, and a delivery device including a pair of pivotable spreader arms attached to a handle portion. The spreader arms of the delivery device are configured for insertion within the sleeve to enable radial expansion from a first diameter to a larger second diameter and positioning of the medical dressing onto the desired anatomical area.
US08834394B2	Apparatus and methods for reducing brain and cervical spine injury In an embodiment, a device for reducing brain and cervical spine injury includes a headpiece sufficiently designed to secure to a user's head, the headpiece having a first attachment member; a support harness sufficiently designed to secure to the user's torso, the support harness having a second attachment member; and a telescoping member having a main tube and a series of progressively smaller diameter tubes nested within each other, wherein the smaller diameter tubes are adapted to extend and compress in a linear plane by the intake and outflow of fluid, wherein the telescoping member has a first engaging member for engaging the first attachment member, and wherein the telescoping member has a second engaging member for engaging the second attachment member.
US08834392B2	Posture state classification for a medical device Techniques relate to operating a medical device in response to a detected posture state of a patient. A trigger event such as a request to modify how therapy is being delivered to the patient may cause a determination to be made as to whether the patient's posture state is stable. If the posture state is stable, an association is created between the posture state and one or more therapy parameter values. Over time, a library of such associations is created that may reflect any posture state in three dimensional space, wherein a posture state comprises at least one of a posture and an activity component. The library of associations may be used to automatically control therapy delivery. Similar ones of the associations may automatically be grouped into posture state regions to facilitate more efficient classification of the patient's posture state to control therapy delivery.
US08834387B2	Detection of airway resistance An airflow signal corresponding to the breathing of the patient is obtained. A section corresponding to inspiration, having a front portion and a middle portion, is found within the airflow signal. A peak value of the front portion is found, which is compared with a value representing the airflow of the middle portion. The presence of resisted breathing is determined based on the comparison between the peak value of the front portion with a value representing the airflow of the middle portion. A baseline value of the airflow signal is found by calculating the mode of values within an airflow signal representing the pressure within a patient's naris. The section corresponding to inspiration is determined by finding peak inspiration and baseline values within a breath and searching from the peak until the baseline is reached to find the section of inspiration.
US08834384B2	Method and apparatus for locating the fossa ovalis, creating a virtual fossa ovalis and performing transseptal puncture Apparatus is provided of locating the fossa ovalis in a patient by locating at least one of the His bundle, the plane of the interatrial septum, and the coronary sinus ostium in a patient, and thereafter locating the fossa ovalis on the basis of one or more predetermined distances between these locations. Software is also provided that can determine and display the location of the fossa ovalis in a patient based on predetermined distances between the locations. Such software can for example be provided within an electroanatomical system. Methods of determining the location of the fossa ovalis, performed by either a clinician or a central processing unit-controlled surgical system, are also provided and determined using predetermined measurements from defined locations. An apparatus for locating the fossa ovalis and performing a transseptal puncture is also provided.
US08834380B2	Sphygmomanometer The objective of the present invention is to provide a sphygmomanometer that is easy to use. The sphygmomanometer according to the present invention measures blood pressure in accordance with an oscillation in an artery wall, resulting from an arterial pulse correspondent with a change in cuff pressure. It comprises a cuff that is connected to the sphygmomanometer main body by a tube, a display unit for displaying the results of blood pressure measurements, and an air supply unit for supplying air to, and thus pressurizing, the cuff, which is detachable from the sphygmomanometer main body. The air supply unit is screwed into the sphygmomanometer main body with a screw assembly, and the screwed-in state is preserved by a caulking ring. The air supply unit also comprises a filter for keeping dust from entering the sphygmomanometer main body.
US08834378B2	Systems and methods for determining respiratory effort Systems and methods for calculating a measure of respiratory effort of a subject are provided. The measure of respiratory effort may be calculated based on a differential pulse transit time (DPTT) calculated for received photoplethysmograph signals. The systems and methods may allow for the calculation of respiratory effort in absolute units, and without the need for calibrations from a device that measures blood pressure (e.g., a non-invasive blood pressure cuff).
US08834374B2	Setting an optimal image parameter in an ultrasound system A processor is configured to perform an image process upon an ultrasound image to thereby detect a center of a blood vessel from the ultrasound image. The processor is configured to set the center of the blood vessel as an optimal focal point position. The processor is configured to calculate a plurality of steering angles, a plurality of transmit (Tx) frequencies and a plurality of sound speeds. The processor is further configured to form a plurality of ultrasound images corresponding to each of the steering angles, the Tx frequencies and the sound speeds based on the ultrasound data, detect a signal to noise ratio (SNR), a number of edge points of the blood vessel and a contrast difference between pixels for each of the second ultrasound images to thereby detect an optimal steering angle, an optimal Tx frequency and an optimal sound speed.
US08834371B2	Ultrasound diagnostic apparatus and ultrasound image processing program In ultrasound diagnosis of, for example, the breasts, a microstructure extraction image in which a microstructure is actively extracted is generated by performing MIP processing together with CFAR processing of removing speckle patterns from a B mode image (tissue image). The generated microstructure extraction image is displayed in the dual display form or the triplex display form, together with, for example, a B mode image before CFAR processing or a B mode image after CFAR processing.
US08834366B2	Method and apparatus for providing analyte sensor calibration Methods and apparatus for providing data processing and control for use in verifying the stability of sensor sensitivity of an analyte sensor.
US08834364B2	System and method for monitoring cardiorespiratory parameters An apparatus, system, and method is disclosed for monitoring the motion, breathing, heart rate of humans in a convenient and low-cost fashion, and for deriving and displaying useful measurements of cardiorespiratory performance from the measured signals. The motion, breathing, and heart rate signals are obtained through a processing applied to a raw signal obtained in a non-contact fashion, typically using a radio-frequency sensor. Processing into separate cardiac and respiratory components is described. The heart rate can be determined by using either spectral or time-domain processing. The respiratory rate can be calculated using spectral analysis. Processing to derive the heart rate, respiratory sinus arrhythmia, or a ventilatory threshold parameter using the system is described. The sensor, processing, and display can be incorporated in a single device which can be worn or held close to the body while exercising (e.g., in a wristwatch or mobile phone configuration), or alternately placed in a fixed piece of exercise equipment at some distance form the body (e.g., in a treadmill dash panel), and may also be integrated with other sensors, such as position locators.
US08834362B2	Speculum blade extender A speculum blade extender apparatus including a body composed of semi-rigid reusable material with first and second walls separated from and coupled together to form a cavity and extending laterally to form opposing lateral lips and extending distally to form a distal lip, such that the contact surface area of the speculum blade is increased, resulting in more efficient and accurate examinations and addressing patient and medical practitioner concerns, collectively.
US08834359B2	Method of controlling endoscope and endoscope An endoscope 100 includes a first light source 45 that emits white illumination light, a second light source 47 that emits narrow-band light and an imaging section that has an imaging device 21 having plural detection pixels and images a region to be observed. The imaging section is caused to output a captured image signal including both a return light component of the white illumination light from the region to be observed by and a return light component of the narrow-band light the white illumination light. From the captured image signal, the return light component of the narrow-band light is selectively extracted, and a brightness level of the extracted return light component of the narrow-band light is changed by changing a light amount of light emitted from the second light source 47.
US08834358B2	Cannula with integrated camera and illumination A cannula assembly includes a tubular element forming a lumen, a deployable element of a subassembly, and an electronic component mounted to the deployable element. The tubular element has a proximal end and a distal end adapted to be inserted into a body cavity. The deployable element is coupled through the subassembly to the tubular element, and is adapted to transition between a closed position and an open position. The electronic component has at least one imaging device and at least one illumination source. The subassembly, including the deployable element and the electronic component, are releasable from the tubular element.
US08834352B2	Endoscope working channel with multiple functionality Endoscopic instrument assemblies and methods for making and using the same. An example endoscopic instrument assembly includes an endoscope having a working channel and an endoscopic instrument slidably disposed in the working channel. The inside surface of the working channel and the outside surface of the endoscopic instrument each have a non-circular cross-sectional shape along at least a portion of their respective lengths.
US08834349B2	Tissue modification A tissue modification apparatus includes a first and a second guide, a first and a second set of mounts, and a first and a second actuator. The first guide defines a first axis, and the second guide defines a second axis intersecting the first axis. The mounts of the first set of mounts are movable relative to one another along the first axis, and the mounts of the second set of mounts are movable relative to one another along the second axis. The first actuator and the second actuator are each settable to a stress load, with the first actuator and the second actuator movable, respectively, along the first axis and the second axis to transmit each respective stress load to a piece of tissue mechanically coupled to the first and second set of mounts.
US08834344B2	Left and right side heart support A cannulation system for cardiac support uses an inner cannula disposed within an outer cannula. The outer cannula includes a fluid inlet for placement within the right atrium of a heart. The inner cannula includes a fluid inlet extending through the fluid inlet of the outer cannula and the atrial septum for placement within at least one of the left atrium and left ventricle of the heart. The cannulation system also employs a pumping assembly coupled to the inner and outer cannulas to withdraw blood from the right atrium for delivery to the pulmonary artery to provide right heart support, or to withdraw blood from at least one of the left atrium and left ventricle for delivery into the aorta to provide left heart support, or both.
US08834343B2	Heart support device A heart support device for pulsatile delivery of blood comprising a first and a second ventricle and a pump. Both ventricles comprises a fluid chamber and a blood-conveying chamber, wherein each fluid chamber can be filled with a fluid or emptied by way of the pump in such a way that an expansion or contraction of the fluid chamber occurs. In an expansion of the fluid chamber of a ventricle, a compression of the blood-conveying chamber of the same ventricle takes place, wherein a rigid pressure plate is disposed between a fluid chamber and the respective blood-conveying chamber, said pressure plate being able to move in the direction of the respective blood-conveying chamber.
US08834335B2	Tri-fold plastic bag roll, method and apparatus for making same A plastic or other film bag is formed from a continuous extruded tube. The tube is flattened and sealed across its width at intervals to form bag bottoms. The bags are joined to one another at a perforation line and folded in thirds lengthwise prior to being rolled into a compact roll, either with or without supporting core. After folding the bags may be chisel cut through the center of the perforation line to assist in dispensing of the bags. The chisel cut will extend through all layers of the bag when folded, resulting in three chisel cuts in the bag. The bags may be gusseted for part or as much as all of their width. The bags may also be corona treated and printed on their outer surfaces. The bags may be formed from partially recycled materials and various combinations of linear low density, medium and high density polyethylene.
US08834334B2	Method of controlling the relative position between printed patterns and non-printed patterns on a web-shaped material and a system used in the method A method and a system for controlling the relative position between a printed pattern and a non-printed pattern, such as for example a pattern of creasing lines or holes, on a running web-shaped material, involves providing the material web with at least one impressed indentation mark with a three-dimensional topographic configuration, at a pre-determined distance from a printed register mark and detecting the marks with a same sensor control system. The controlling method and system is used for the manufacturing of a laminated packaging material, having a printed décor and creased folding lines in register.
US08834332B2	Collapsible inclinable exercise device and method of using same An exercise device includes a vertical support member; an adjustable incline having a first end and a second end, the first end of the adjustable incline vertically movable with respect to the vertical support member for setting the incline of the adjustable incline, the adjustable incline including a top rail and a bottom rail pivotally coupled to each other at a first location; a strut with a first end and a second end, the first end of the strut being pivotally coupled to the vertical support member and the second end of the strut being pivotally coupled to the adjustable incline at a second location that is not the same as the first location; a user support platform movably attached to the adjustable incline; pulleys and one or more cables coupled to the adjustable incline and user support platform for movement of the support platform along the adjustable incline.
US08834331B1	Pronged band connector, and method for securing an elastic exercise band A pronged band connector is adapted for securing a flat elastic exercise resistance band to an adjacent structure. The exercise band has a length, width, and thickness. The exemplary band connector comprises a base and a plurality of spaced-apart elongated rigid prongs. The prongs extend substantially perpendicular to the base, and are adapted for receiving a portion of the exercise band between adjacent prongs. A length of each prong may be greater than the width of the exercise band.
US08834328B1	Adjustable flexible line ends An exercise apparatus includes a flexible connector system that includes at least two flexible line ends that provide multiple resistance ratios for functional and strength training when pulled. The flexible line ends are adjustable to multiple fixed positions along a track and to multiple fixed positions along a curved path.
US08834322B2	Wrist training apparatus A wrist training apparatus includes a housing, a rotation component disposed in the housing, a signal emission assembly and a counter. The rotation component includes a shaft and an annular wrapper wrapping the shaft and including an outer and inner surfaces and receptacle hole extending from the outer to the inner surfaces. A hole wall of the receptacle hole includes a stopper part. The signal emission assembly is disposed in the receptacle hole and includes a holding cover disposed in the receptacle hole and including a first holding structure in the receptacle hole and a second holding structure protruding from the inner surface and a signal emission device. The first and second holding structures are leaned against the stopper part and inner surface respectively. The signal emission device is disposed in the holding cover. The counter is disposed in the housing and senses signals from the signal emission device.
US08834318B2	System, method, and apparatus for controlling power output distribution in a hybrid power train A method includes operating a hybrid power train having an internal combustion engine, at least one electrical torque provider, and an electrical energy storage device electrically coupled to the electrical torque provider(s). The method further includes determining a machine power demand, and determining a power division description in response to the machine power demand. The method further includes interpreting a state-of-health (SOH) for the electrical energy storage device, and in response to the SOH for the electrical energy storage device, adjusting the power division description.
US08834317B2	Hybrid vehicle and associated control method A hybrid vehicle and method of control are disclosed wherein the ratio of engine speed to vehicle speed varies continuously in some operating modes and is controlled to simulate a discrete ratio transmission in other operating modes. The disclosure specifies the method of controlling the engine speed and the combined output torque of the engine and at least one traction motor in each of the operating modes. Transitions among operating modes occur in response to driver movement of a shift lever, driver operation of shift selectors, and changes in vehicle speed.
US08834313B2	Multiple speed transmission and method of operation A family of transmissions has four planetary gear sets, five controllable clutches and brake, and a passive one way brake. Selective engagement of the brakes and clutches in combinations of three produces eight forward speed ratios and one reverse speed ratio. The passive one way brake is engaged in the first forward speed ratio and overruns in the second through fifth forward speed ratios.
US08834312B2	Mill drive system A mill drive system includes a gear unit which is arrangeable below a grinding plate and has at least one planetary and/or spur gear stage, having a vertical shaft position. The mill drive system includes an electric motor, integrated into a housing of the gear unit and having a rotor and a stator which have vertically extending axes. Upper and lower bearing covers each including bearing seats for rotor shaft bearing are mounted on opposite end faces on the rotor and stator and are connected via a stator carrier, which has cooling fins on the outer periphery. A collecting tray for coolant is formed between the lower bearing cover and a base part of the housing. The motor is supported via a flange which is formed on an inner face of the housing and extends radially inward and to which the lower and/or upper bearing covers are connected.
US08834307B2	Belt type continuously variable transmission A belt-type continuously variable transmission comprises a drive pulley assembly mounted to a drive shaft; a driven pulley assembly mounted to a driven shaft; a belt connecting the two; and a case assembly for accommodating these components. The drive pulley assembly has fins for generating a flow of air moving toward an outer periphery of the drive pulley assembly. When viewed in an axial direction of the drive shaft, an air blocking plate is positioned at a forward side in a rotational direction of the drive pulley assembly relative to an imaginary line segment connecting a center axis of the drive pulley assembly to a center axis of the driven pulley assembly, between the drive pulley assembly and the driven pulley assembly such that the air blocking plate surrounds the outer periphery of the drive pulley assembly over a predetermined range.
US08834306B2	Racquet with elongated grommet barrels A sports racquet with increased string vibration damping has grommets with elongated barrels. The barrels conform closely to the strings, are capable of absorbing vibration, and may be placed on the main strings, the cross strings, or both.
US08834304B1	Bat swing quality indicator A training or safety aid for a baseball bat is disclosed. The device is configured to be placed on a bat, and indicators, which may be sound producing devices, produce a noise in accordance with selected qualities of the swing. In some embodiments, a flute-type opening is used, and may be configured with tubes to determine a pitch of a produced tone. An air scoop or funnel may be used with any of the devices that utilize airflow to produce a tone. Where more than one sound producing device is used, the devices are configured to only produce a sound within a narrow angular range of airflow, and are angularly spaced so as to produce sounds during different portions of a bat swing.
US08834303B2	Arena baseball game system An Arena Baseball Game system and method for playing an electronic interactive spectator participation game incorporating many aspects of Rounders, Knickerbocker rules and Negro League baseball innovation “Night Baseball.” The method of play is disclosed, involving some of the same rules as American baseball with virtual interplay. Time is regulated by a game clock and balls may be deflected back as playable by a rebounding assembly that surrounds the arena field. The Arena method of play includes monitored base force out zones and means for ball game conclusion by predetermined “aces” or “runs” and time duration. The arena has a playing area surrounded by a wall structure such as pad and or panel walls and spectator protective vision enabled side covering. A baseball-like game played within an enclosed facility, wherein the game method of play rules and facility are designed for fast paced action.
US08834302B2	Golf ball A cross-sectional shape of each of dimples 8 of a golf ball is a wave-like curve. The wave-like curve has two first projections 16, two second projections 18, two first recesses 20, and two second recesses 22. A circular arc 14 passes through one edge Ed, a deepest point Pd, and another edge Ed. Each first projection 16 is located above the circular arc 14. Each second projection 18 is located above the circular arc 14. Each first recess 20 is located below the circular arc 14. Each second recess 22 is located below the circular arc 14. The ratio of the distance Lp from an edge Ed to a peak Pp to the radius (Di/2) of the dimple 8 is equal to or greater than 20% but equal to or less than 70%.
US08834301B2	Golf ball with a non-ionomeric inner cover, stiff TPU intermediate cover, and cast thermoset outer cover A golf ball including a core and a cover disposed about the core. The cover includes a thermoplastic inner cover layer having a hardness between 55 and 60 Shore D; an outer cover layer having a hardness between 55 and 60 Shore D; and a stiff intermediate cover layer disposed between the inner and outer cover layers and having a hardness greater than the inner cover layer and the outer cover layer. The inner cover layer is formed from a non-ionomeric composition including a non-ionomeric stiffening polymer and at least one E/Y copolymer or E/X/Y terpolymer, where E is an olefin, Y is a carboxylic acid, and X is a softening comonomer. The intermediate cover layer is formed from a stiff thermoplastic polyurethane or polyurea composition and the cover outer cover layer is formed from a thermoset polyurethane, a polyurea, or a urethane-urea blend.
US08834299B2	Multi-layer core golf ball Golf balls comprising a multi-layer core and a cover are disclosed. The multi-layer core comprises a zero or negative hardness gradient center that is hard relative to an intermediate core layer. The overall core preferably has a zero hardness gradient, a negative hardness gradient, or a positive hardness gradient of up to 20 Shore C units.
US08834298B2	Multi-layer core golf ball Golf balls comprising a multi-layer core and a cover are disclosed. The multi-layer core comprises a center and an outer core layer that are both soft relative to a hard intermediate core layer. The Shore C hardness of the outer surface of the center is preferably greater than the Shore C hardness of the geometric center of the center.
US08834293B2	Golf clubs and golf club heads including structure to selectively control the sound of the club head The invention relates generally to golf clubs and golf club heads that enable users, club fitters, club manufacturers, and the like to selectively control, change, and customize aspects of the “sound” associated with the golf club and golf club head when it strikes a golf ball. Golf clubs and golf club heads according to this invention may include: a) a club head body; b) a ball striking face engaged with or integrally formed as part of the club head body; c) a hosel member engaged with or integrally formed as at least a portion of the club head; and d) means for changing a sound emanated by the club head when a golf ball contacts the ball striking face. A user may change the vibrational characteristics associated with the club head when a golf ball is struck, thereby changing the sound emanating from the club head when a golf ball is struck.
US08834291B2	Golf club head This invention provides a golf club head including a plurality of parallel scorelines formed in its face surface, and a plurality of grooves which are formed in the face surface and have a width narrower than the scorelines. Rounded portions are formed on the edges of the scorelines. The plurality of grooves are formed at positions on the two sides of each of the scorelines to extend parallel to the scorelines.
US08834288B2	Variable length shaft and grip A variable length shaft assembly comprising a shaft, a shaft adapter, a grip sleeve, an actuator screw, a grip, and a screw is disclosed herein. The grip is bonded to the grip sleeve, the shaft adapter is bonded to the shaft, and the shaft adapter comprises a keyed portion that mates with a keyed structure inside of the grip sleeve. The actuator screw comprises external threads that mate with internal threads inside the grip sleeve, and the location of the actuator screw within the grip sleeve can be adjusted with a wrench. Once the actuator screw is at a desired location within the grip sleeve, the shaft is semi-permanently fixed to the grip sleeve by releasable affixing the keyed structure of the shaft adapter to the actuator screw with the screw. The overall length of the assembly can be adjusted and fine-tuned using these structures.
US08834286B1	Golf-swing training device A golf-swing training device is provided which has a straight shaft with first and second ends and a central handle. The device further includes first and second heads secured to the first and second ends of the shaft, respectively. The first head has a front surface facing a first direction and an outer edge pointing in a direction 90° from the direction the first front surface of the first head faces. The second head has a front surface facing a second direction, opposite the first direction, and an outer edge pointing in a direction 90° from the direction the front surface of the second head of the second head faces and opposite the direction that the outer edge of the first head points.
US08834283B2	Bowling practice device and method An example of a practice device includes a top portion, a bottom portion, a middle portion extending along a longitudinal axis between the top and bottom portions, a neck portion extending between the top and middle portions, and a plurality of weights. The top portion includes a first cross section and at least two through-holes extending between front and rear surfaces. The bottom portion and middle portions include second and third cross sections, respectively. The neck includes a fourth cross section smaller than the third cross section. The weights have center holes smaller than the third cross section but larger than the first and fourth cross sections are configured for placement around the neck portion. Example methods of practicing and warming up may use various practice devices.
US08834276B2	Rules-based engine for cross-promotion platform A system and computer-implemented method for cross-promoting electronic games is provided. First and second electronic game databases are configured to store first and second game user attributes relating to first and second electronic game, respectively. An aggregator database is coupled to the first and second electronic game databases and is configured to store a first game user attribute, associated with the user and relating to a first electronic game, and user data of a user of the first electronic game. A processor is coupled to the aggregator database and configured to automatically associate a second game user attribute to the user according to a predetermined rule based on at least one of the first game user attribute stored in the aggregator database and the user data. The second game user attribute associated to the user by the processor is stored in the aggregator database.
US08834272B2	Dynamically reconfigurable joystick A gaming machine comprises one or more display devices, a configurable joystick, and one or more memory devices. The memory devices store instructions that, when executed by at least one processor, cause the machine to dispose the joystick in a first joystick state during a first game part and, responsive to a trigger, dynamically reconfigure the joystick to a second joystick state for use during a second game part. A method comprises receiving an input to play a game, providing a configurable joystick in a first joystick state, conducting a first game part with the joystick in the first joystick state, dynamically reconfiguring the joystick from the first joystick state to a second joystick state responsive to a trigger, and conducting a second wagering game part with the joystick in the second joystick state.
US08834271B2	Game controller and game system A first control unit includes a first operation data generation section for generating first operation data in accordance with a motion of a first control unit body included in the first control unit. A second control unit includes a second operation data generation section for generating second operation data in accordance with a direction input operation performed by a player or a motion of a second control unit body included in the second control unit. Further, one of the first control unit and the second control unit includes a transmission section for transmitting the first operation data and the second operation data to a computer at a predetermined timing.
US08834269B2	Program, game device and method of controlling the same A program executed in a game device causes a controller to move a plurality of operated characters in a virtual three-dimensional space in accordance with operation signals; decide a moving direction of a field-of-view range; set a screen end of a display screen of a game image on the opposite side of the moving direction of the field-of-view range; generate, if a first operated character is located at a predetermined point outside the screen end, an operation event for receiving a specific operation from an operation unit operating the first operated character; and move, if the specific operation is received when the operation event is generated, at least a second operated character in the plurality of operated characters toward a position of the first operated character. The second operated character is closest to a screen end of the game image in the moving direction of the field-of-view range.
US08834267B2	Avatar useable in multiple games that changes appearance according to the game being played An object of the present invention is to provide a game apparatus that can display an avatar matched to any kind of game in which the avatar participates, without changing clothes or decorations worn by the avatar to new clothes or decorations. The game apparatus specifies display data of items based on attributes set to the items and includes a design table where a correspondence relationship between the attributes and the display data of the items is set. Display data of the player character is generated based on the specified display data of the items, and the player character is displayed on a display screen based on the generated display data of the player character.
US08834263B2	Credit and enabling system for virtual constructs in a hybrid game Systems and methods in accordance with embodiments of the invention operate a controlled entity hybrid game. A controlled entity hybrid game includes a real world engine constructed to provide a randomly generated payout of real world credits from at least one wager in a gambling game, an entertainment software engine constructed to execute an entertainment game providing outcomes based upon a player's skillful execution of the entertainment game; and a game world engine constructed to manage the entertainment software engine and communicate, to the gambling game, a gameplay gambling event occurrence based upon a player's instruction of a controlled entity to consume an element of the entertainment game that triggers a wager in the gambling game, and change the element on the basis of the randomly generated payout and an entertainment game variable.
US08834259B2	Gaming device using an interactive wheel feature Disclosed is a gaming device including an interactive animated representation of a wheel image or partial wheel image. A player of the device can start the wheel image spinning by touching and dragging their finger on the surface of the wheel image in order to move and spin the wheel image at a variety of speeds and directions.
US08834256B2	Gaming systems, gaming devices and methods providing time based game sessions with changing values Various embodiments of the present disclosure are generally directed to gaming systems, gaming devices and methods that provide time based game sessions that each include a plurality of wagering events, wherein if one of the plurality of wagering events results in or is associated with a designated change outcome, a value associated with an element or function in the game session (such as a value associated with an outcome, a time value, or a wager amount) changes (such as by increasing) for a remaining portion of the game session (such as the rest of the gaming session).
US08834253B2	Gaming devices having player assigned random number generators and time share feature Gaming machines utilize the output of random number generators (RNGs) in the presentation of games, wherein one or more of the RNGs is each assigned to a single player. Each uniquely assigned RNG is used to determine the outcome of the games played only by the assigned player, such as games presented by casino gaming machines or via remote or mobile devices. An RNG may also be stopped or paused and then restarted, whereby a sequence of random data remains continuous or contiguous relative to a number of games played, such as by the single player to which the RNG is assigned. Multiple players may also time-share a gaming machine in a manner whereby the gaming machine acts as a unique device to each player.
US08834252B2	Gaming machine The present invention provides players with fun brought by a moveable component.A gaming machine 1 comprises a game result determination unit, determining a game result; a game execution unit, executing a game in such a manner as to reach the game result; a moveable component, disposed at a position visible from outside, and configured to be capable of mechanical movement; and a movement control unit, enabling the moveable component to move in a movement pattern corresponding to the game result.
US08834249B2	Gaming machine with loyalty bonus A gaming machine is provided, which awards loyalty points to players playing the game who have identified themselves to the machine. The machine is arranged to award loyalty points to the player and to play two game means wherein, the first or base game may be provided by the slot machine game as a stand alone function with no dependence upon a supporting communications network, the second game may be linked game in which a plurality of network connected machines participate with control of the game being provided by a central game controller, while the communications network is controlled by a network controller. A first game mode is available to all players and a second enhanced game mode is made available to players who have reached a predetermined threshold of loyalty points.
US08834239B2	Air outlet in particular for a motor vehicle An air outlet, in particular for a motor vehicle, includes at least one air guide element in a flow duct for inducing a swirl in the airflow on introduction of air into the air outlet from an air duct and a flow body embodied along the longitudinal axis of the flow duct.
US08834235B1	Flexible sander A flexible sanding apparatus includes a thin, relatively flat spring member and one or more coil spring members coupled to a first side of the flat spring member along a length of the flat spring member. A sanding surface may be coupled to a second side of the flat spring member. The flat spring member and the coil spring members may be elongated members coupled together lengthwise. The coil spring member may be a closed coil spring member that allows concave flexing of the sanding surface and inhibits convex flexing of the sanding surface.
US08834227B2	Vibration powered toy An apparatus includes a body, an eccentric load, a rotational motor coupled to the body and adapted to rotate the eccentric load, and a plurality of legs each having a leg base and a leg tip at a distal end relative to the leg base. At least a portion of the plurality of legs are constructed from a flexible material, are injection molded, are integrally coupled to the body at the leg base, and include at least one driving leg configured to cause the apparatus to move in a direction generally defined by an offset between the leg base and the leg tip as the rotational motor rotates the eccentric load.
US08834225B2	Creature construction toy A modular construction toy kit includes components to construct a modular construction toy. The toy kit includes at least three contoured body sections operable to be interconnected in series with one another to cooperatively form a continuous toy body. The body sections include at least one transition body section and a pair of end body sections. Each end body section is truncated to present a contoured outer end surface that is intersected by an end joining face. The end joining faces have different marginal shapes and/or sizes. The at least one transition section presents a contoured outer transition surface and opposite, endmost transition joining faces that intersect the outer transition surface. Each endmost transition joining face marginally matches a respective one of the end joining faces to define a connection interface.
US08834221B2	Flexible restraint A flexible restraint (1) for use as a leash for a surfboard, the restraint including an elongate molded cord (2) that includes an end housing (3) which encapsulates an end (4) of a connector provided in the form of a swivel assembly (5). The end housing (3) is formed around the end (4) of the swivel assembly (5) to secure the cord (2) to the swivel assembly (5), the end housing (3) being integrally molded with the cord (2) so as to provide a unitary structure.
US08834219B2	Floating structure with fuel tank for gas fuel Disclosed herein is a floating structure with a fuel gas tank for storing gas fuel to be fed to a dual fuel propulsion system under a cabin area. According to the present invention, there is provided a floating structure with a fuel gas tank storing gaseous fuel used as fuel while floating at sea, including: a cabin area disposed on an upper deck of the floating structure; a fuel gas tank mounted under the cabin area in the hull of the floating structure; and a blocking member mounted between the cabin area and the fuel gas tank to secure safety of the cabin area.
US08834217B2	Dog clutch mechanism for outboard motor A dog clutch mechanism incorporated in an outboard motor includes a sliding clutch dog member splined to a propeller shaft and having recesses on each end face thereof, and a row of gear teeth formed on an end face of each of a pair of driven gears rotatably mounted on the propeller shaft. Each of the recesses has a bottom surface stepped to provide a corner edge at a stepped portion thereof. Each of the gear teeth has a beveled surface formed at a rear edge as viewed from a rotating direction of the driven gear. When the gear teeth are in mesh with the recesses of the clutch dog member, the corner edge of the stepped bottom surface of each recess is in contact with the beveled surface of the mating gear tooth.
US08834216B1	Water deflector for a marine outboard engine A stern bracket for mounting a drive unit to a watercraft including a transom. The drive unit is pivotable with respect to the stern bracket about a tilt axis. The stern bracket includes a support member for fixing the drive unit to the transom and a water deflector. The water deflector comprises a mounting bracket attached to the support member and a deflection plate connected to the mounting bracket. The deflection plate, disposed at a vertical position lower than the tilt axis, extends between the transom and the drive unit mounted to the stern bracket mounted to the transom. A left deflection wing, connected to at least one of the deflection plate and the mounting bracket, extends downward and laterally outward therefrom. A right deflection wing, connected to at least one of the deflection plate and the mounting bracket, extends downward and laterally outward therefrom. A watercraft is also disclosed.
US08834211B2	Grounding apparatus and grounding systems including the same for meter enclosure mounting The invention includes a grounding system which includes a grounding apparatus, a first ground conductor and a plurality of second ground conductors. The grounding apparatus includes a substrate and an elongated conductive member. The substrate has formed therein an aperture for receiving and electrically and mechanically engaging the first ground conductor. The elongated conductive member is mounted to a surface of the substrate and includes a plurality of lugs structured to receive and electrically and mechanically engage the plurality of second ground conductors. The substrate is structured for mounting to an exterior surface of a meter enclosure.
US08834209B2	Electrical cord and apparatus using same An electricity conducting cord has first and second ends, one of the ends comprising an electrical connection member engageable with a power connection member of an apparatus having an apparatus power rating, at least one of the power connection member and the electrical connection member comprising electrical connectors and a physical cord identification member, the physical cord identification member is configured to inhibit the electricity conducting cord being electrically connected to the power connection member if the electricity conducting cord has a power rating lower than the apparatus power rating.
US08834207B2	Methods and apparatus for reducing crosstalk in electrical connectors A communication jack having crosstalk compensation features for overall crosstalk interference reduction is disclosed. In one embodiment, the jack is configured to receive a plug to form a communication connection, and comprises jack contacts disposed in the jack, with each contact having at least a first surface and a second surface. Upon the plug being received by the jack, the plug contacts interface with the first surface of the jack contacts. The jack further includes a first capacitive coupling connected between two pairs of jack contacts to compensate for near end crosstalk, with the first capacitive coupling being connected to the pairs of jack contacts along the second surface adjacent to where the plug contacts interface with the jack contacts. A far end crosstalk compensation scheme is also set forth.
US08834206B2	Electrical connector with grounging plate An electrical connector 100 includes an insulative housing 1, a plurality of contacts 2, a metal shell 3 and a grounding plate 4. The metal shell 3 includes a front shell 31 having a top wall 311 and an assembling portion 318 extending upwardly from the top wall 311 and having an accommodating slot 3181. The grounding plate 4 includes a base portion 41 inserted into the accommodating slot 3181 and a protruding portion 42 having an elastic mating portion 423 connected with a mating connector. The metal shell 3 further has a rear shell 32 having a vertical covering plate 321 having a resisting portion 3211 extending upwardly and a shielding plate 323 extending forwardly from a top of the covering plate 321. The resisting portion 3211 upwardly abuts against the top wall 311. The grounding plate 4 would be easily assembled to the metal shell 3.
US08834205B2	Pluggable module system A pluggable module system includes an electrical connector assembly having a cage member with a plurality of walls defining a receptacle. The cage member has an opening in a front thereof providing access to the receptacle and a latch proximate to the opening. A receptacle connector is received in the cage member proximate to a rear thereof and is accessible in the receptacle. A pluggable module is received in the receptacle and is mated to the receptacle connector. The pluggable module has a conductive shell and a retention post that extends from the conductive shell. The retention post engages the latch to secure the pluggable module in the receptacle. The conductive shell has grounding tabs that extend from the shell. The grounding tabs circumferentially surround the conductive shell.
US08834204B2	Connector assembly A connector assembly is provided which includes a housing and at least one conductor module. The conductor module comprises at least a first sub-module and a second sub-module attached together to form the conductor module. The conductor module is at least partially received in the housing. The housing and the first sub-module include cooperating positioning structures for positioning the at least one conductor module into the housing such that the position of the second sub-module with respect to the housing is determined by the position of the first sub-module with respect to the housing in at least a first direction (X; Z). A connector assembly is also provided in which at least one contact includes at least one contact beam of which a part is resiliently displaceable substantially parallel to a side wall of the housing from a preload position to a second position for receiving a mating contact. The housing includes a stand-off structure configured to cooperate with at least a portion of the contact to provide and maintain a separation between at least the contact portion and the first side wall in and between the preload position and the second position.
US08834201B2	Coaxial connector A coaxial connector has a structure in which slits into which the both sides of a core wire crimp part are to be inserted are respectively formed on facing inner walls of a core wire containing groove in an inner housing and the core wire crimp part is covered with the inner housing and a terminal fitting by crimping of the terminal fitting.
US08834195B2	Cable connector system A cable connector system that comprises a first contact assembly that includes a housing and a first contact received in the housing, where the first contact has a cable termination portion and an interface portion that includes a first contact surface and a cap that has a first locking surface. A second contact assembly mates with the first contact assembly and includes a housing and a second contact that has a second contact surface configured to engage the first contact surface and the second contact being rotatable with respect to the first contact. A locking member that includes a second locking surface is configured to engage the first locking surface, wherein when the second locking surface engages the first locking surface, the first contact assembly is prevented from moving axially with respect to the second contact assembly while the first contact remains rotatable with the second contact.
US08834193B2	Electrical connector with elastic locking mechanism and electrical connector assembly thereof An electrical connector (100) with a mating surround interface (A1) for mating with a mating electrical connector (600) includes an insulative housing (1), a plurality of contacts (2) retained in the insulative housing (1), an elastic locking member (4) and a positioning spacer (3) is mounted on the insulative housing (1). The electrical connector (100) also includes a receiving slit (103) defined between the insulative housing (1) and the positioning spacer (3). The elastic locking member (4) includes a body portion (41) mounted on the side wall (12) and a pair of moveable locking arms (42) integrally extending from both ends of the body portion (41) which are bended to a different plane and extend through the mating surround interface (A1).
US08834192B2	Electrical connector with carrier frame loading electronic package An electrical connector for use with an electronic package, includes an insulative housing defining an upward facing cavity, a plurality of contacts disposed in the cavity of the insulative housing with contacts sections extending into the cavity, and a carrier frame mounted to the insulative housing and having a main body defining an opening for allowing part of the electronic package passing through the opening. The carrier frame assembles to the insulative housing having a preliminary alignment state and a final alignment state.
US08834191B2	Electrical connector having holder for carrying an IC package An electrical connector for electrically connecting an IC package to a circuit board includes an insulating housing having a number of contacts received therein, a load plate covering the insulating housing and rotating between an open position and a closed position and a holder assembled on the load plate for retaining the IC package. The holder is sandwiched between the insulating housing and the load plate and capable of loading the IC package to the insulating housing when the load plate is rotated to a close position.
US08834189B2	Rotatable connector device A rotatable connector device includes a fixed-side member which is to be fixed, and a rotatable-side member which is relatively rotatably attached to the fixed-side member. The rotatable-side member receives a rotation input. The rotatable connector device have a fixed-side cable end accommodation section, projecting from an outer circumferential surface of the fixed-side member in a tangential direction thereof, for accommodating and holding a terminal conductor connection section provided at an end of a flat cable accommodated in the rotatable connector device. The flat cable has a bent portion, in a portion thereof on a side of the terminal conductor connection section, for bending the flat cable so as to shift the portion on the side of the terminal conductor connection section in a width direction of the flat cable.
US08834179B2	Steering roll connector for a vehicle The present invention relates to a steering roll connector for a vehicle. The steering roll connector includes a roll stator, a roll rotor, a roller plate, and a locking unit. The roll stator is fixed to a vehicle. The roll rotor is coaxial to the stator, is rotatable relative to the stator, and includes a rotor connector provided with a steering wheel connector. The roller plate is rotatably disposed between the roll stator and the roll rotor. When a steering wheel shaft of the vehicle is not installed on the steering roll connector, the locking unit maintains the steering roll connector in a neutral position. When the steering wheel shaft is installed on the steering roll connector, the locking unit enables the roll rotor to rotate relative to the roll stator.
US08834177B2	Computer-implemented method of and system for teaching an untrained observer to evaluate a gemstone A computer-implemented method teaches a user to evaluate a gemstone, such as a cut diamond. The method includes providing a computer system connected to an apparatus capable of capturing an image of a gemstone. The computer system is arranged to process a received image of a gemstone to determine one or more optical properties of the gemstone. In one aspect, the method presents on a display of the computer system a series of pre-stored screens comprising a graphical representation how the cut of a gemstone affects its light handling ability, and a user interface screen. The user interface screen allows the user to control the operation of the apparatus to measure the one or more optical properties of a particular gemstone provided to the apparatus, to view an image of the gemstone measured, and to view representations of the measured one or more optical properties.
US08834174B2	Methods and systems for assessing latent traits using probabilistic scoring A method and system for assessing a latent trait such as a psychiatric disorder in a test subject. The method includes receiving a test subject's responses to test items that are administered to the test subject to elicit the responses from the test subject. An initial first sub-region probability of the test subject lying within a first sub-region of a first latent trait is determined from the test subject's response to the initial first test item. A subsequent first sub-region probability of the test subject lying within the first sub-region of the first latent trait is then determined using the test subject's response to the subsequent first test item to ascertain a conditional response probability, and using the initial first sub-region probability as a prior first sub-region probability. The method and system can be used to more accurately and/or more rapidly assess one or more latent traits in a test subject.
US08834165B2	Upset recovery training using a sustained-G multi-axis platform or a centrifuge A process for providing upset recovery training (URT) includes using a sustained-G multi-axis platform (e.g., a centrifuge-based simulator). Various embodiments of the present invention address an important aspect of URT that is not present in the prior art, namely the placing of physiological stresses on the trainees during URT, such as sustained motions including, but not limited to, sustained, elevated G-forces and continuous rotational cues. Elevated, sustained, G-forces and continuous rotational cues can create many physiological challenges to aircrew. These challenges can include motion discomfort, disorientation, and visual disturbances. Embodiments of the present invention provide URT that includes physiological stresses on the pilot. If a pilot learns the correct procedures for recovery from an upset, as in the prior art URT programs, but cannot execute the procedures in the real world because he or she has not been prepared for the physiological environment to be faced, then safety is compromised.
US08834162B2	Training edged weapon An edged weapon training device. The device has a handle portion for gripping by a training subject. A blade portion has at least one exposed contact portion. The contact portion includes a marking device which leaves a mark when it touches an opponent during martial arts or other edged weapon training activities.
US08834161B2	Zirconium dioxide based prostheses A process for the manufacture of a zirconium oxide prosthesis, the zirconium oxide being stabilized, which process includes the following steps: a) compacting a zirconium oxide powder at a pressure of at least 45 MPa to an object of a desired form, b) impacting an etchable medium into the surface, c) optionally working the object to a final shape, d) sintering the body at a temperature of above 1170° C. to transfer zirconium oxide into a tetragonal crystalline structure, and e) etching the etchable medium using hydrofluoric acid to remove the medium and impart a micromechanical retention surface. A prosthesis prepared by this process is also disclosed.
US08834160B1	Dental wedge and former device A dental wedge and forming device utilizing a unitary body having a pair of wings which are intended to lie against the outer surfaces of adjacent teeth, either on the lingual or buccal region of the teeth. A curved nose is constructed to extend between the adjacent teeth and includes a flat side and an opposite radiused side. A pair of the devices are nested in opposition in order to hold a dental matrix band in place about a prepared tooth, thus allowing a dental practitioner to practice proper biomimetic restorative techniques.
US08834157B2	Mandible position indicator for analyzing bite function A system and method for modeling bite function. A top pantograph is fixed to a patient via clutches to the top teeth of the patient, a bottom pantograph is fixed to a patient via clutches to the bottom teeth of the patient and the actual bite of the patient is optically monitored by monitoring the relation of the top pantograph to the bottom pantograph during a bite cycle and storing a hinge axis. Data is stored relating to the actual bite and the top teeth are scanned to create a top teeth model while the bottom teeth are scanned to create a bottom teeth model. A digital representation of the top pantograph is digitally fitted to the top teeth, a digital representation of the bottom pantograph bottom pantograph is digitally fitted to the bottom teeth, and the relationship of the top teeth model and the bottom teeth model to the hinge axis is recorded. A bite model is digitally created by recording the position of the top teeth model in relation to the bottom teeth model while digitally moving the bottom teeth model with respect to the top teeth model around the hinge axis.
US08834156B2	Orthodontic bracket system The orthodontic bracket system includes a bracket having a base for attachment to a tooth surface, a stem above the base, tie wings extending from the stem for securing ligatures, and an archwire slot for receiving an archwire defined by the stem and tie wings. Distal and mesial side surfaces of the bracket base are perpendicular to the archwire slot to allow a rotational device to apply rotational force to a tooth perpendicular to the archwire with direct vector-line guidance. Occlusal and gingival edges of the bracket base between the tie wings are scooped-out or recessed to provide more space to receive a tool under an elastic ligature, and select corners of the tie wings are beveled enlarging space to facilitate entry of instruments for removing wire ligatures, to facilitate instrument access for removal and replacement of ligatures, while streamlining tooth rotation to make arch correction more efficient.
US08834153B2	Flame arrester arrangement In a flame arrester arrangement having a housing (1) for holding at least two flame arrester inserts (6, 6′) having a large number of axial passage gaps dimensioned for a combustible gas, and having an intermediate layer (7) arranged between two flame arrester inserts (6, 6′), which permits a radial distribution of the gas flow emerging from one flame arrester insert (6, 6′) and entering an adjacent downstream flame arrester insert (6, 6′), the ability of the flame arrester inserts (6, 6′) to be easily assembled and disassembled for servicing purposes without restricting the functional integrity can be achieved by at least one separate closed seal (11, 11′, 15, 17, 17′, 20) being arranged between a flame arrester insert (6, 6′) and the housing (1) or between two flame arrester inserts (6, 6′) in such a way that a flow around the flame arrester insert (6, 6′) in a space (12) located radially outside the passage gaps is prevented.
US08834150B2	Valve gate cylinder and housing with microgap seal An injection molding arrangement including a mold top clamp plate having a means for receiving a plasticizer unit, a manifold retainer plate supporting a melt distribution manifold having a melt distribution channel into which melt from the plasticizer unit is received, a mold cavity plate provided such that the manifold retainer plate is positioned between the mold top clamp plate and the mold cavity plate; the mold cavity plate receiving an injection nozzle in fluid communication with the melt distribution channel for receiving melt to be injected into a mold, a valve gate stem extending into the injection nozzle and axially movable between an open position permitting melt flow and a closed position blocking melt flow, and an actuator for moving the valve gate stem between the open position and the closed position. The actuator includes a cylinder chamber receiving a piston therein, with the valve gate stem coupled to the piston. The piston has an elongate cylindrical sidewall. The cylinder chamber and the piston are sized and otherwise dimensioned to provide a microgap seal along the uninterrupted elongate cylindrical sidewall between an upper chamber of the cylinder chamber and a lower chamber of the cylinder chamber.
US08834149B2	Molding apparatus Disclosed herein is, amongst other things, a molding apparatus, comprising a stripper sleeve (116) for use in a first stack portion (110) of a mold stack (140), wherein the stripper sleeve (116) is configured to open a slide pair (122) of the first stack portion (110) and to strip a molded article (106) from the first stack portion (110).
US08834147B2	Mechanically collapsible shell for long cylinder production A system for removing a cured composite object from a mandrel is provided. The system includes a collapsible shell, wherein an inner surface of the shell is configured to slide over an outer surface of the mandrel and an outer surface of the shell is configured to have the composite object formed thereon. The system further includes an extractor comprising a first and second disk disposed along a rod, and an adjuster, wherein the second disk is configured to engage an end of the mandrel and the adjuster is configured to move the first disk along the rod relative to the second disk. The system further includes a spacer configured to fit between the first disk and a first end of the shell when the shell is placed on the mandrel. The spacer pushes the shell and the composite object formed thereon off of the mandrel when the adjuster moves the first disk towards the second disk.
US08834143B2	Tire vulcanization mold A tire vulcanization mold can be configured to provide stable ventilation. For example, a tire molding surface has a ventilation groove having a rectangular shape in plan view. A blade has upper end, contact and communication sections. The upper end section thickness is smaller than a groove thickness. The contact section below the upper end section contacts both thickness-direction-facing side faces of the groove. The communication section communicates between a ventilation hole, and a small gap is formed between the groove and the upper end section. Alternatively, the blade has a groove section formed in at least one side face that faces in a blade thickness direction and extends between upper and lower blade ends to form a small gap between the groove and groove section. Air and gas pass through the gap and the communication section and vent to an exterior of the mold through the ventilation hole.
US08834142B2	Fluidized bed granulator A granulator, having a granulation unit having a bottom floor with a perforated plate as its bottom part; an upper air-supplying pipe for supplying a fluidizing air to the bottom of the granulation unit; a lower air-supplying pipe; air-spouting pipes, each of which is branched from the lower air-supplying pipe, and has an opening in the bottom of the perforated plate, for jetting the air into the granulation unit; and spray nozzles for spraying a granulation raw material liquid, which each are provided in the center of an air outlet of the air-spouting pipe, or having: the bottom; the air-supplying pipe; and spray nozzles for spraying a granulation raw material liquid each of which are provided in an opening in the bottom of the perforated plate, and use a high-pressure atomizing air as an auxiliary gas, with the spray nozzles being provided in a triangular arrangement.
US08834137B2	Primer bulb A pump includes a substantially tubular housing having an inlet end and an outlet end and defining a central axis and a chamber within the body portion, and a movable valve assembly slidably received within the housing for movement in the direction of the central axis. The pump also includes a handle assembly slidably disposed at least partially around an outer circumference of the housing for movement in the direction of the central axis, the handle assembly being substantially annular ring-shaped, and the handle assembly including a grip engageable by a hand of an operator for manually sliding the handle assembly, the handle assembly being coupled to the movable valve assembly, manual movement of the handle assembly along the central axis causing corresponding movement on the movable valve assembly along the central axis.
US08834132B2	Apparatus having control valve and variable capacitance pump and hydraulic pressure circuit of internal combustion engine in which the same apparatus is used In a hydraulic pressure circuit including an introduction section through which oil is introduced, a main passage section installed at a downstream side of the introduction section to be communicated with a supply section through which oil is supplied to each of slide sections of an internal combustion engine, a branch passage branched from the main passage section to supply oil to a hydraulic pressure actuator, and a control valve having a valve body which is moved in accordance with a pressure of an upstream side thereof, and a variable capacitance pump configured to drain oil to the introduction section, the variable capacitance pump is configured to vary a drained flow quantity in accordance with the drained pressure of oil and a pressure under which the oil drained flow quantity is started to be varied is higher than a pressure under which the valve body is started to move.
US08834130B2	Wind turbine blade with an auxiliary airfoil A blade for a rotor of a wind turbine having a substantially horizontal rotor shaft, the rotor comprising a hub, from which the blade extends substantially in a radial direction when mounted to the hub. The blade comprises a main blade part having a profiled contour comprising a pressure side and a suction side as well as a leading edge and a trailing edge with a chord extending between the leading edge and the trailing edge. The profiled contour generates a lift when being impacted by an incident airflow. The profiled contour is divided in the radial direction into a root region with a substantially circular or elliptical profile closest to the hub, the substantially circular or elliptical profile having a diameter, an airfoil region with a lift generating profile furthest away from the hub, and a transition region between the root region and the airfoil region. The profile of the transition region gradually changes in the radial direction from the circular or elliptical profile of the root region to the lift generating profile of the airfoil region. The blade further comprises a first auxiliary airfoil having a first pressure side and a first suction side as well as a first chord extending between a first leading edge and a first trailing edge. The first chord has a length that is 75% or less of the diameter of the substantially circular or elliptical profile in the root region and the first auxiliary airfoil is arranged so that it extends in the radial direction along at least a part of the root region of the main blade part with a distance there between.
US08834125B2	Hybrid rotor disk assembly with a ceramic matrix composite airfoil for a gas turbine engine A Ceramic Matrix Composite (CMC) airfoil for a gas turbine engine includes a CMC root section which extends to form a CMC airfoil section, the CMC root section defines a bore along a non-linear axis.
US08834123B2	Turbomachinery component A turbomachinery blade for a gas turbine engine is provided and includes an airfoil extending between a leading edge and a trailing edge. In one embodiment the turbomachinery blade is a compressor blade. The blade can include a platform attached to the airfoil on one side, the other side being attached to a stalk having a lower attachment portion useful for being received in a compressor disk. The blade includes an undercut beneath a portion of the airfoil, preferably beneath the leading edge and/or trailing edge of the airfoil. In one form the undercut is located in a corner of the platform and extends partially along two sides of the platform.
US08834121B2	Turbo fan and air conditioning apparatus A blade front edge of a turbo fan has, between a main-plate-side blade front edge and a shroud-side blade front edge, a projecting blade front edge which distances away from a blade rear edge (located in a rotation direction A) as it furthers away from a main plate, which curves to a position away from a rotation center, and, in a range close to the main plate, a main-plate-side front-edge skirt portion which distances away from the blade rear edge and inclines away from the rotation center as it becomes closer to the main plate. On the other hand, a main-plate-side blade rear edge, which is a range close to the main plate of the blade rear edge, is substantially perpendicular to the main plate and a shroud-side blade rear edge, which is a range close to a shroud, is inclined so as to gradually distance away from the blade front edge (behind in the rotation direction A) as it furthers away from the main plate.
US08834120B2	Method for connecting a low speed main shaft of a wind turbine to an input shaft of a transmission gearbox of the wind turbine and a connection obtained by said method A method for connecting a low speed main shaft of a wind turbine to an input shaft of a transmission gearbox of the wind turbine is disclosed. The method includes providing a connection surface on the main shaft and a corresponding connection surface on the input shaft, placing a friction enhancing means on at least one of the connection surfaces, and firmly connecting both connection surfaces to one another, a permanent load being applied on the connection surfaces.
US08834117B2	Integrated lightning receptor system and trailing edge noise reducer for a wind turbine rotor blade A rotor blade assembly for a wind turbine includes a rotor blade having a pressure side member, a suction side member, a leading edge, and a trailing edge extending between a tip and a root. An electrically conductive band extends longitudinally on either or both of the pressure side member and suction side member along the trailing edge. A plurality of electrically conductive noise reduction features extend from the trailing edge and are configured as individual lightning strike receptors. The noise reduction features are configured in conductive communication with the conductive band.
US08834113B2	Alignment member for steam turbine nozzle assembly An alignment member for a turbine diaphragm segment is disclosed. The alignment member is configured to span radially across a portion of the turbine diaphragm segment and an adjacent turbine casing segment. The alignment member can include: a main body having a first aperture for aligning with a first corresponding aperture in one of the turbine diaphragm segment or the turbine casing segment; and a flange extending from the main body, the flange including a second aperture for aligning with a portion of the other of the turbine diaphragm segment or the turbine casing segment, the alignment member for adjusting a position of the turbine diaphragm segment relative to the adjacent turbine casing segment.
US08834103B2	Structure for mounting between rotation shaft and lever, method for mounting between rotation shaft and lever, and fluid machine A structure that mounts to a rotation shaft a lever that causes this rotation shaft to rotate, including a plurality of engaging members that are provided in the lever so as to be offset from the center axis of the rotation shaft, and that are capable of advancing toward and retracting from the outer periphery of the rotation shaft, and a plurality of abutted faces that are provided on the outer periphery of the rotation shaft so that the distal end faces of the plurality of engaging members respectively make contact, in which, when at least one of the engaging members and the abutted face that corresponds to that engaging member are in contact, relative rotation of the rotation shaft about the axis thereof in one direction with respect to the lever is restricted, and when another engaging member and another abutted face corresponding to the engaging member are in contact, relative rotation of the rotation shaft about the axis thereof in the other direction with respect to the lever is restricted.
US08834101B2	Mechanical seal for large pumps An improved mechanical seal assembly is provided for hydro transport applications and other similar applications, such as large high pressure slurry pumps. This mechanical seal is used in large scale pumps having an axially adjustable shaft to accommodate high wear applications by maintaining suitable pump performance. The improved seal is a cartridge seal that includes a stationary seal adapter which is mounted to a pump casing and has a static gasket sealingly contacting a movable gland which non-rotatably supports the stationary seal rings of a mechanical seal. Additional seal rings are rotatably supported on the shaft wherein these rotatable and non-rotatable seal components are movable axially with the shaft to improve pump performance in high-wear conditions. The gland and non-rotatable seal rings are supported on and move with a bearing housing, along with the shaft and its seal rings.
US08834097B2	Compressor diffuser vane damper An auxiliary power unit is disclosed that includes a compressor section having a compressor inlet and a compressor exit. A turbine section is arranged downstream from the compressor exit. A diffuser is disposed in fluid communication with and between the compressor section and the turbine section. The diffuser has multiple generally radially extending circumferentially arranged vanes. A shroud housing is secured against the vanes. A damper is arranged between at least one vane and the shroud housing and configured to damp vibration of the at least one vane relative to the shroud housing during operation of the auxiliary power unit.
US08834096B2	Axial flow gas turbine In an axial flow gas turbine efficient cooling and a long life-time can be achieved by providing the outer blade platforms (45) with a plurality of outer teeth (46a-c) running parallel to each other in the circumferential direction and being arranged one after the other in the direction of the hot gas flow. The teeth (46a-c) are divided into first and second teeth (46a; 46b-c), the second teeth (46b-c) being located downstream of the first teeth (46a), the first teeth (46a) are opposite to a downstream projection (33) of the adjacent vanes (21) of the turbine stage (TS), and the second teeth (46b-c) are opposite to the respective stator heat shields (27).
US08834095B2	Integral bearing support and centering spring assembly for a gas turbine engine A bearing support assembly for supporting a bearing assembly within a bearing compartment of a gas turbine engine includes a centering spring and a bearing support member integrally joined together to form a one piece structure. The centering spring connects to the bearing assembly and has a portion that extends conically relative to a centerline axis of the gas turbine engine. The bearing support member extends from the centering spring to connect to an engine case of the gas turbine engine.
US08834092B2	Fluid machine, wind turbine, and method for increasing velocity of internal flow of fluid machine, utilizing unsteady flow A fluid machine, a wind turbine, and a method for increasing velocity of an internal flow is provided. A basic shape of the casing has a cycloid curve having a convex portion at a throat section between the front and rear edges. The throat section and a vortex generating face disposed downstream of the throat section to generate the negative pressure region are formed on an inner circumferential face of the casing. A first outflow gradient is formed on an outer circumferential face of the casing and at the rear edge. A second outflow gradient is formed on a boundary of a throat-side adjacent face adjacent to the vortex generating portion to separate the internal flow. The negative pressure region of high vorticity is generated behind the vortex generating face by virtue of the non-streamline shaped casing to increase the velocity of the internal flow.
US08834078B2	Nozzle method for removing dust and chips resulting from drilling operations A nozzle removes by suction dust and chips from a drilling machine in an industrial plant. The nozzle has a first tubular portion for connection to a suction tube communicating with an opposite second tubular portion with an intake opening. An outer flange extends transversely from an intermediate position between the first and second tubular portions. The intake opening is directed in a lateral direction, parallel to the transverse direction of the flange. A magnetic element is incorporated in the flange. The nozzle can be applied to a drilling template having cylindrical through-openings in which respective bushings made of ferromagnetic material are fixed. When the second tubular portion is inserted through a cylindrical bushing, the magnetic element acts on the bushing, opposing axial and rotational movements of the nozzle.
US08834075B2	Cutting insert A cutting insert has a top surface and a bottom surface having a parallelogram shape, and four side surfaces connecting the top and bottom surfaces. One or more primary cutting edges are formed at intersections between the top and bottom surfaces and two opposing side surfaces. Secondary cutting edges are formed at intersections between the top and bottom surfaces and two other opposing side surfaces. The primary cutting edge forms a first angle with respect to a median plane parallel to the top and bottom surfaces. The secondary cutting edge forms a second angle with respect to the median plane. The top and bottom surfaces have a mounting surface and a rack surface, wherein the rack surface extends inwardly from the cutting edge toward the median plane. The top and bottom surfaces of the cutting insert have mirror symmetry with respect to the median plane.
US08834074B2	Back mixing device for pneumatic conveying systems The present application provides a back mixing device for use with a pneumatically conveyed flow of solids having a varying flow rate. The back mixing device may include a nozzle, a chamber in communication with the nozzle, and an exit. The chamber may include an expanded area leading to a restriction such that the chamber creates a recirculation pattern in the flow of solids so as to smooth the varying flow rate though the back mixing device.
US08834073B2	Transport apparatus having a measuring system and methods therefor A transport apparatus includes a bearing assembly for transporting an article. The bearing assembly includes a support structure for receiving the article, and a plenum housing for receiving the support structure. The plenum housing and the support structure define a plenum cavity, the plenum cavity being configured to receive and direct a flowing gas for floatingly supporting the article above the support structure. The bearing assembly further includes at least one sensor assembly, which includes a sensor for transmitting and receiving energy emissions for determining a location of the article relative to the support structure. The sensor assembly may determine the location of the article relative to the support structure substantially through at least one aperture located on the bearing assembly. The article location determined by the sensor assembly may be communicated to a display panel or a control unit for adjusting the location if necessary.
US08834070B2	Apparatus and method for securing a fairing to a marine element Apparatus and methods for securing a fairing around a marine element. The apparatus can include first and second opposing sides, and a third side extending between the first and second sides. An attachment mechanism can extend from the third side, and is configured to interlock with a corresponding attachment mechanism of an opposing connector to secure the fairing around a marine element.
US08834066B2	Segmental bio-retention basin system A retention basin includes interlocking concrete vertical wall segments engaged with adjacent segments. Each segment has a vertical wall and a top edge that defines a lifting bore that is complimentary in shape to a removable lifting bolt that is configured to provide a lifting attachment point for a lifting cable and an internal bore in alignment with the internal bore of an adjacent segment. A pin is disposed in the internal bores to maintain the segments in alignment. An eyebolt includes an eye portion disposed around the pin. A plate is bolted to the eyebolt and against the vertical walls of two adjacent segments to maintain the two segments in a spatial relationship. An earth anchor is buried in the soil to provide lateral support to the segments. A post-installation attachment is affixed to the lifting bore of at least one segment.
US08834064B2	Integrated carriage fogging system for concrete pavers A concrete paver system with a reconfigurable hydration system which utilizes a plurality of individually flow controllable spray nozzles, which are clamped on support structures, which also support objects being dragged across a top surface of concrete which is being finished. The plurality of flow controllable spray nozzles being configured to be moved about said hydration system so as to change a pattern of water vapor application, all without the use of tools.
US08834062B1	Apparatus and method for picking up and repositioning a string of roadway barrier segments The invention relates to a method and an apparatus for automatically guiding a machine that picks up and places roadway barrier segments using satellite global positioning and ultrasonic sensors. The machine is guided by both GPS signals and signals based on ultrasonic measurement of distance from the existing barrier segments.
US08834061B2	Water permeable traffic bearing system, method and drainage joint for use with same Making a water permeable traffic bearing system includes preparing a compound water permeable base in contact with a native substrate, and installing a drainage system having a plurality of elongate drainage joints over the prepared water permeable base. Each of the drainage joints defines a plurality of vertical drainage conduits opening at upper and lower sides and in fluid communication with a storage volume defined by the water permeable base. Making the water permeable traffic bearing system further includes forming a segmental mat having a plurality of water impermeable surface pads abutting the plurality of drainage joints, at least in part by filling voids extending horizontally between the drainage joints with a curable paving material, and curing the paving material within the voids, in contact with each of the water permeable base and the drainage joints. Installing the drainage system further includes tuning precipitation handling of the traffic bearing system, at least in part by setting a spacing and a number of the drainage joints responsive to, a water throughput factor of the traffic bearing system and a structural factor of the segmental mat. The drainage joints may have upwardly and downwardly oriented legs joined via a bridge in an H-configuration.
US08834057B2	Slip bracket connector for rigid members A one-piece rigid connector allows a nominal construction wood member to slip axially while fixed at its distal end, to accommodate the naturally occurring shrinkage of lumber. The connector surrounds the wood member and attaches to a second wood member to secure the members together. The connector may be slightly larger radially than the first member to accommodate natural movement. In one embodiment, the connector is made of a light gauge sheet metal and attaches a vertical baluster to the horizontal lower deck rail of an elevated wood deck guard rail system. The connector secures the baluster horizontally, but allows the baluster to move vertically to accommodate expansion or contraction of the baluster after construction. The distal end of the baluster is secured using conventional wood screw attachment. The connector includes tabs on each side to allow fastening of the connector to the lower deck rail using conventional wood screws.
US08834055B2	Cleaning device having plural and customizable cleaning surfaces A device for cleaning debris from a target surface. The device has a sole plate with permanent bristles and a removable/replaceable pad. The device also has a replaceable, on-board supply of cleanser. The pad/cleanser may be replaced when depleted and replaced with a new pad/cleanser or may simply be replaced with a new pad/cleanser when that pad/cleanser is more suitable for a particular cleaning task.
US08834053B2	Mop handle grip and thumb trigger mechanism A mop comprises a mop head and a handle connected to the mop head at a pivot. The mop head and handle have a front and a back. A fluid reservoir for spraying a fluid at the front of the mop head. A trigger is disposed on the handle remote from the mop head, where the trigger controls the spraying of the fluid from the reservoir. The trigger is movable between a non-actuated position and an actuated position where the trigger moves toward the back as it moves from the non-actuated position to the actuated position. A method of using the mop is also provided.
US08834052B2	Lip gloss tube capable of guiding an applicator to the nozzle of a body using magnetic force A lip gloss case for guiding an applying tip into an entry of a main body, includes: a main body accommodating cosmetics; an applying tip inserted into an entry of the main body to apply the cosmetics to user's skin; a first magnetic material provided in the applying tip; and a second magnetic material provided on the entry of the main body and attracting the first magnetic material in the applying tip to guide the first magnetic material into the entry of the main body. By doing so, due to the attractive force between the first magnetic material and the second magnetic material which are respectively provided in the applying tip and on the entry of the main body, an eye handicapped person or the old suffering from eyesight or tremor of the hand may easily insert the applying tip into the entry of the main body.
US08834050B2	System for docking and undocking packages for cosmetics, and set of packages for cosmetics The present invention refers to a system for docking and undocking packages for cosmetics, capable of offering a simplified and efficient fitting and detaching mechanism for the packages The system comprises a first package and a second package for cosmetics, the first and second packages being respectively comprised by a first and second bottle, the first and second bottles being respectively associated with a first cap and a second cap, the first package for cosmetics being docked to the second package for cosmetics upon a compression movement, and concomitantly, upon the cooperation between a first cap projection and a second cap projection respectively arranged on the first and second caps, the first package for cosmetics being undocked from the second package for cosmetics upon a traction movement substantially contrary to the compression movement, the first cap projection having a geometry which is identical to the second cap projection.
US08834049B2	Print system, paper printer, and method of controlling print system A print system includes a paper feed device; a print device which has a platen roller and a print head and inserts the fed paper and an ink ribbon at a head position between the platen roller and the print head to perform printing; a disjunction device which relatively moves the platen roller with respect to the print head between a contact position where the platen roller contacts and a separation position where the platen roller is away therefrom; a non-print section acquiring device which acquires non-print section data of a character image in a feed direction of the paper from print data; and a print control device which controls the devices. The print control device relatively moves the platen roller to the separation position during a non-print section of the fed paper passes through the print head, based on the non-print section data.
US08834047B2	Label printer A label printing apparatus, comprising a cassette-receiving bay adapted to receive a cassette, said cassette-receiving bay having a base, an opening opposite the base, and side walls extending between the base and the opening; a cassette locking mechanism comprising at least one locking element having a locking position for engagement with a cassette inserted into said cassette-receiving bay; and cassette detection means operable to determine whether said at least one locking element is engaged with a cassette inserted into the cassette-receiving bay.
US08834046B2	Inverted reverse-image transfer printing A credential printing device is provided. The credential printing device includes a credential substrate transport, a transfer ribbon and a transfer roller. The credential substrate transport is configured to feed a credential substrate along a processing path. The transfer ribbon is adjacent to the processing path. The transfer roller is positioned below the processing path and is configured to transfer an image from the transfer ribbon to a bottom surface of the credential substrate in the processing path.
US08834044B2	Interchangeable lens The interchangeable lens includes a lens holding member holding a lens, a first supporting bar engaging with the lens holding member to guide movement of the lens holding member in an optical axis direction, a second supporting bar engaging with the lens holding member to prevent rotation of the lens holding member, the second supporting bar having a shorter length than that of the first supporting bar. The interchangeable lens further includes a mount contact provided as an electric contact in a mount portion detachably attachable to a camera body. When viewed from the optical axis direction, the first supporting bar is disposed in an area not overlapping the mount contact, and the second supporting bar is disposed in an area overlapping the mount contact, and when viewed from a direction orthogonal to the optical axis direction, part of the first supporting bar overlaps the mount contact.
US08834043B2	Shutter apparatus and image-pickup apparatus having the same A shutter apparatus includes a shutter base plate having an aperture, a blade group configured to open and close the aperture, a blade driving member configured to drive the blade group, a charge lever configured to rotate the blade driving member, a first roller which is attached to a first axis portion extending from the blade driving member and abuts against the charge lever, a cam member configured to rotate the charge lever, and a second roller which is attached to a second axis portion extending from the charge lever and is configured to trace a cam portion formed on the cam member. The cam member has a flange protruding from the cam portion to periphery of the cam member. And the cam member is arranged so that the second roller is overlapped with the flange in an extending direction of the second axis portion.
US08834040B2	Connectors and cables with an optical transmitter Cable adapters and connectors receive electrical signals and output optical signals. A cable adapter can receive various data signals in multiple interface protocols at a first electrical connector and provide an optical signal at a second connector. The conversion of electrical signals to optical signals may be achieved at various locations in the cable adapter. A connector can include an optical transmitter for converting electrical signals into optical signals. Such a connector can be provided on an output end of a cable adapter to provide optical signals corresponding to electrical signals received at an input connector of the cable adapter.
US08834039B1	Optical connector and optical connector assembly An adhesive void mitigating fiber ferrule optical connector includes a housing for an optical fiber, the housing including opposite front and rear openings and an elongate bore providing an interior surface and extending between the opposite front and rear openings for insertably receiving the optical fiber from the rear opening through the front opening, the housing also including a front adhesive fill-port in communication with the elongate bore nearer the front opening for providing adhesive substantially void-free in the elongate bore and for surroundably securing the optical fiber extending therein to the interior surface.
US08834037B2	Hermaphroditic connector with multi-fiber termini A hermaphroditic connector assembly for fiber optic cables includes a base portion defining at least one passage for receiving at least one optical fiber. The connector further includes an insert cap that selectively connects to and disconnects from the base portion to receive the optical fiber. The insert cap defines a first face and a tower extending substantially perpendicularly adjacent the first face. The tower defines a cavity therein. A first ferrule is supported by and extends through the first face of the insert cap. A second ferrule is supported by and extends through the tower, and the second ferrule is within the cavity defined by the tower. The first and second ferrules define sets of socket and pin termini within the hermaphroditic connector assembly. An electrical pin terminus extends through the first face, and an electrical socket terminus extends into the tower.
US08834032B2	Tilting pad journal bearing and rotating machine provided with the same A tilting pad journal bearing includes a pads disposed on the outer circumferential side of a rotating shaft, pivots supporting pads such that the pads are tiltable, a plurality of guides disposed between pads, and a casing. The pads have an oil passage extending from side to side in the circumferential direction, the guides having first and second guide passages. The first guide passage introduces lubricating oil from an oil-supply hole of the casing and exhaust it to the oil passage of the pad adjacent to the guide on the other side in the circumferential direction. The second guide passage introduces lubricating oil from the oil passage of the pad adjacent to the guide and on one side in the circumferential direction and exhaust it to between the inner circumferential surface of the pad on the other side and the outer circumferential surface of the rotating shaft.
US08834030B2	Bush bearing A bush bearing includes a bearing body having an inner peripheral surface which is brought into contact with a cylindrical outer peripheral surface of a rotating shaft portion so as to be rotatable in a first direction, a groove provided on an outer peripheral surface of the bearing body so as to extend in the first direction, and an elastic ring fitted on said groove and having a pair of projecting portions and a portion, the pair of projecting portions partially projecting radially outward from the outer peripheral surface of said bearing body in second direction, the portion being provided at positions in the first direction between the pair of projecting portions, and not projecting radially outward from the outer peripheral surface of the bearing body.
US08834026B2	Bearings for downhole tools, downhole tools incorporating such bearings, and methods of cooling such bearings Bearings for downhole tools including a first bearing member and a second bearing member, at least one of the first and second bearing members having a channel formed therein. Methods of cooling bearings of downhole tools comprise flowing a fluid within a channel formed in at least one bearing member. Heat is transferred from at least the at least one bearing member to the fluid. The fluid is flowed away from the at least one bearing member.
US08834020B2	Thermal imaging system Support structures for positioning sensors on a physiologic tunnel for measuring physical, chemical and biological parameters of the body and to produce an action according to the measured value of the parameters. The support structure includes a sensor fitted on the support structures using a special geometry for acquiring continuous and undisturbed data on the physiology of the body. Signals are transmitted to a remote station by wireless transmission such as by electromagnetic waves, radio waves, infrared, sound and the like or by being reported locally by audio or visual transmission. The physical and chemical parameters include brain function, metabolic function, hydrodynamic function, hydration status, levels of chemical compounds in the blood, and the like. The support structure includes patches, clips, eyeglasses, head mounted gear and the like, containing passive or active sensors positioned at the end of the tunnel with sensing systems positioned on and accessing a physiologic tunnel.
US08834016B1	Multi chamber mixing manifold One or more embodiments relate to systems and methods for mixing of two or more fluids using a multi-chamber manifold. One or more embodiments relate to optimal mixing.
US08834015B2	Blender with co-operating jug and blades A blender comprises a jug and a cutting assembly having an upwardly inclined main blade portion. The jug has an interior portion, and the lower portion has a profile that includes an upwardly reaching portion conforms to the blade shape of the cutting assembly to reduce food accumulation below the main blades.
US08834010B2	Device for the quick vibration of tubes containing, in particular, biological samples An appliance for rapidly vibrating test tubes containing samples to be ground up, the appliance comprising an electric motor (12) for driving rotation of a disk (16) that is provided with an eccentric pin (17), the appliance being characterized in that the test tubes (23) are perpendicular to the eccentric pin and are held by a clamp (21) mounted on a support (20) that is substantially parallel to the eccentric pin, being connected to a fixed baseplate via a Cardan type hinge (15) having two mutually perpendicular axes of rotation (X and Y), one of which axes (Y) is substantially parallel to the eccentric pin (17) and connects the support (20) to the other axis (X) of the hinge (15) that prevents the support (20) from moving in rotation about a perpendicular axis (Z). The support (20) is connected to the eccentric pin (17) by a link (19).
US08834008B2	Display module, display device, and liquid crystal television set This display module includes a display cell, a board, a light guide plate formed with a first engaging portion, and a holding member formed with a second engaging portion coming into contact with the first engaging portion to engage with the first engaging portion. At least either the first engaging portion or the second engaging portion is formed in a shape allowing the light guide plate to move in a direction orthogonal to the board in response to expansion or contraction of the light guide plate when the light guide plate expands or contracts.
US08834007B2	Display module A display module includes an outer frame, a light emitting unit, a panel device, and a light guide plate having a light entrance surface and a connecting side. A first recessed portion is formed on the connecting side. The outer frame is disposed on the light guide plate and has a second recessed portion formed thereon corresponding to the first recessed portion. The second recessed portion is complementarily connected to the first recessed portion. The light emitting unit is disposed in the outer frame corresponding to the light entrance surface for emitting light into the light guide plate via the light entrance surface. The panel device is disposed on the light guide plate and contained in the outer frame for receiving the light emitted from the light guide plate. The ratio of the length of the first recessed portion to the length of the connecting side is greater than 0.2.
US08834006B2	Backlight module and liquid crystal display device The present invention discloses a backlight module which can be incorporated within the liquid crystal display device, and which includes a waveguide, a heat dissipating frame, a light source and a backframe. The heat dissipating frame includes a carrying portion and a sidewalk. The carrying portion abuts against a bottom surface of the waveguide. The carrying portion is defined with openings in an area adjacent to the sidewalk. The light source is mounted onto the sidewall and offset to the opening. The backframe includes a bottom board and erections which extend and pass through the opening. The bottom board abuts the carrying portion. The thickness of the erection is larger than the thickness of the light source such that expansion of the waveguide exposed under heat will not in contacting with the light source. Accordingly, the light source will not be damaged by the expansion of the waveguide, and therefore prolong the service of the light source.
US08834005B2	Backlight assembly and display apparatus having the same A backlight assembly includes a light guide plate, a light source, a mold and a main frame. The light guide plate includes a first surface and a second surface extending from the first surface. The light source is disposed adjacent to the first surface of the light guide plate. The mold includes an upper portion, a lower portion and a side portion. The side portion connects to the upper and lower portions to form a receiving space, and the receiving space receives the light source and the first surface of the light guide plate. The main frame includes side walls and an upper wall extending from an upper portion of the side walls, and the mold is disposed in an opening below the upper wall.
US08834002B2	Backlight module with side reflector plate protection The present invention provides a backlight module, which includes a backplane, a light guide plate arranged inside the backplane, a light bar arranged at one side of the light guide plate, a side reflector plate arranged at one side of the light guide plate that is distant from the light bar, and four corner pieces arranged between the backplane and the light guide plate. The corner pieces are made of a rubber material. The corner pieces have surfaces that face the light guide plate and are of a white color. The side reflector plate is arranged between two of the corner pieces. The side reflector plate has a length that is less than or equal to a distance between the two corner pieces so as to achieve a separate arrangement of the side reflector plate and the corner pieces.
US08834000B2	Light-source unit, back-light unit having the same, and display device having the same A light-source unit for providing light to a display panel includes at least one light-source. The at least one light-source is mounted in a circuit board. A body portion having a housing space houses the circuit board on which the at least one light-source is mounted. A reflection portion reflects light emitted from the at least one light-source. The reflection portion has a parabola shape. The light is reflected by the reflection portion to proceed straight and in a direction perpendicular to a direction that the light is emitted from the at least one light-source.
US08833998B2	Backlight module for providing light to a display panel and display device therewith A backlight module includes a light emitting unit for emitting light, a light guide plate disposed on a side of a display panel for guiding the light emitted by the light emitting unit to the display panel, a back cover installed outside the light emitting unit and the light guide plate, and a frame combined with the back cover for accommodating the light emitting unit and the light guide plate with the back cover. The frame includes a first side facing a surface of the light guide plate, and a second side opposite to the first side. The backlight module further includes an optical material layer disposed between the second side of the frame and the display panel for misting and focusing the light refracted from the light guide plate so as to provide uniform and bright light to the display panel.
US08833997B2	Light guide bar and optical touch panel having the same A light guide bar and an optical touch panel utilizing the light guide bar are provided. The light guide bar is applied to an optical touch panel with a sensing area. The light guide bar includes a bar body and a plurality of prisms. The bar body has a first receiving end, a light-exiting surface, and a structure surface. The light-exiting surface is opposite to the structure surface and faces the sensing area while the first receiving end is connected between an end of the light-exiting surface and an end of the structure surface. The prisms are formed on the structure surface. Each prism includes a first surface and a second surface respectively having a first angle and a second angle with respect to the structure surface, wherein the second surface is closer to the first receiving end than the first surface, and the second angle is larger than or equal to the first angle. The prisms are utilized to alter the angle of the light exiting the bar body to improve the touch-sensing effect of the optical touch panel utilizing the light guide bar.
US08833996B2	Illumination systems providing direct and indirect illumination Illumination devices are described for illuminating a target area, e.g., floors of a room, using solid-state light sources. In general, an illumination device includes a first light guide extending along a first plane, the first light guide to receive light from first light emitting elements (LEEs) and guide the light in a first direction in the first plane; a second light guide extending along the first plane, the second light guide to receive light from second LEEs and guide the light in a second direction in the first plane opposite to the first direction; a first redirecting optic to receive light from the first light guide and direct the light in first and second angular ranges; and a second redirecting optic to receive light from the second light guide and direct the light in third and fourth angular ranges, where the first, second, third and fourth angular ranges are different.
US08833993B1	Warning light frame with integral screw anchors A warning light assembly includes a frame with integral fastener anchors. The frame aligns and supports the anchors with openings in a vehicle body or other support surface. Fasteners pass through a warning light housing to spread retention legs behind the support surface. The anchors are connected by the frame and cannot rotate relative to the vehicle body or warning light. The frame defines a central opening for warning lights requiring additional depth.
US08833990B2	Automotive lamp and socket apparatus with pigtail connector A lamp apparatus (14) includes a heat sink (28), a heat conductive post (26) having a plurality of faces (36), one or more light engines (30) coupled to each of a plurality of faces (36), a connector (32) to provide power to the light engine (30) when electrically coupled to a lamp socket, and a grommet (34). The grommet (34) is secured to and extends around a perimeter of the heat conductive post (26) and includes a radial groove (48) receiving a rim (21) of an opening (20) of a reflector (12) such that a first and a second portion (50, 51) of the grommet (34) extend beyond the rim (21) and over a portion of an interior and an exterior surface (23, 25) of the reflector (12) to secure the lamp apparatus (14) to the opening (20) of the reflector (12).
US08833989B2	Vehicle glazing A vehicle glazing comprising a pane of glazing material having an exposed surface and a light emitting diode device a) other than an auxiliary stop lamp adhesively attached to the exposed surface of the pane of glazing material, or b) in the form of an auxiliary stop lamp adhesively attached to the exposed surface of the pane of glazing material, the lamp comprising a substrate having a functional surface on which a plurality of light emitting diodes is provided, and which is provided with a layer of transparent encapsulant to cover the light emitting diodes is disclosed. A process for the production of such a vehicle glazing comprising applying adhesive to a surface of the vehicle glazing, positioning the light emitting diode device with respect to the pane of glazing material and activating the adhesive is also disclosed.
US08833986B2	Work light A lighting assembly for illuminating a work area, such as the area underneath the hood of a vehicle or the area underneath the body of a vehicle. The lighting assembly has a light, support rod having an adjustable length and two clasping members, the two clasping members being able to attach the lighting assembly to the hood or body of a vehicle.
US08833982B2	Lighting device including light-emitting element In accordance with a first aspect of the present inventive subject matter, a lighting device includes light-emitting elements arranged in lines that are extended in parallel with one another, the light-emitting elements being divided into groups each including the same number of light-emitting elements, a first connecting electrode is disposed adjacent to one end portion of the lines extended, a second connecting electrode is disposed adjacent to another end portion of the lines extended, and the light-emitting elements within each group are electrically connected in series with one another by metallic wires and electrically connected in series to the first connecting electrode and to the second connecting electrode. The groups each include the same number of light-emitting elements that are electrically connected in parallel between the first connecting electrode and the second connecting electrode.
US08833981B2	Multiple-tier omnidirectional solid-state emission source Multiple-tier omnidirectional solid-state emission source capable of dispersing light in flexible distributions or custom-intensity distributions which throw more light forward, to the side alternatively, or in all directions. This optical light control requires multiple-surface manipulation of the directions of the light energy bundles emerging from solid-state light sources. Producing uniform light up to 325 degrees in the vertical direction through the combined implementation of multi-stage light guiding for remote source elongation and multiple-tiers of TIR, refraction, and scatter for remote source emission and control. Combining the efficient light production of an LED chip with that of a directly coupled optic results in high efficiency custom distribution to direct light where required. The optical light manipulator consists of a dielectric or reflector collector section, spline light-pipe section used to clear the cross-sectional area of a thermal dissipation device and a section which either externally, internally, or combinatorially feeds multiple-tier TIR/refractor elements.
US08833979B2	Light source device with outer lens and light source system using the same A light source device and a light source system using the same are provided. The light source device includes a lens and a light source disposed under the lens. The lens has a light-emitting top surface and a bottom surface having a hole that is surrounded by an inner wall surface and an inner top surface. The inner top surface and a projection area of thereof onto the light-emitting top surface are flat surfaces. The light source has an illumination area, wherein an opening of the hole covers a projection area of the illumination area onto the bottom surface. The light source system includes a plurality of the light source device disposed in a honeycomb arrangement, wherein the light source devices are spaced apart from each other.
US08833978B2	Traffic signal light device A traffic signal light device that includes a spread window, a Fresnel lens, and an LED module for emitting light. The light emitted by the LED module passes through the Fresnel lens and to the spread window. The LED module is disposed at a position that is offset from an axis of the spread window that passes through a center of, and is perpendicular to, the spread window. The Fresnel lens can have a saw-toothed pattern of teeth formed as concentric circles on one surface of the Fresnel lens sharing a common center, where the size or height of the teeth vary. The spread window can have a plurality of protruding cells of varying size on a surface of the spread window.
US08833974B2	Photoluminescent illuminator An illuminator and a method for fabricating the illuminator are disclosed. The illuminator comprises at least a light source and a discriminator. The light source comprises one or more luminescent layers that substantially convert the energy of a primary electromagnetic radiation to an output radiation. The discriminator comprises one or more layers that substantially transmit the primary electromagnetic radiation to the one or more luminescent layers and reflect at least a portion of the output radiation from the one or more luminescent layers to the viewing hemisphere. A method for applying the illuminator to an object is also disclosed.
US08833973B2	Lamp position adjustment device A lamp position adjustment device includes a base plate, a supporting frame, a lamp holder, a first positioning mechanism, and a second positioning mechanism. The first positioning mechanism is disposed between the lamp holder and the supporting frame and between the lamp holder and the base plate to enable the lamp holder to move in a first direction relative to the supporting frame. The first direction is substantially parallel with one side of a light incident surface of an integration rod. The second positioning mechanism is disposed between the lamp holder and the base plate to enable the lamp holder to rotate about an axis parallel to the first direction.
US08833972B2	All in one snow crystal-shaped LED module A straight middle LED module having a certain length and positioned at a middle portion; side LED modules which are provided at both sides of the middle LED module at a regular interval along a longitudinal direction; a middle connection portion at which the side LED modules and the middle LED module are connected and integrally formed in order for the side LED modules to be bent; and a horizontal connection portion to which a lower side of the middle LED module is connected at a regular interval along a horizontal direction, and the middle connection portion has grooves alternately formed at both sides and has a width narrower than the width of the side LED module.
US08833970B2	Lamp and lighting system and device using natural and artificial light The invention relates to a lamp (4) and to a lighting system and device (1) for lighting interiors such as dwellings or offices, the LED lamp (6) including an LED-supporting body (5) having a substantially circular or polygonal crown-shaped plan and provided with a plurality of LEDs on one of the surfaces thereof, which body defines a hollow inner space (17) through which natural light can pass via means (22) for conveying natural light provided on the device, such as, for example, segments of reflective tube (2,2′) that convey natural light or an optical fiber (3b). The lighting system enables the transmission via a communication channel (13) of the signal generated by a transducer element (10), involving at least one element (11) for transmitting to the corresponding receiver elements (12) which modify the elements (7) that control each lamp.
US08833968B2	LED illuminating device An LED illuminating device includes a base, an LED substrate mounted on the base, at least one LED on the substrate and an envelope fixed on the base. The envelope includes a plurality of transmission regions and a plurality of reflective regions. The lights beams emitted by the LED reaches the envelope. A first portion of the light beams reaching transmission regions can pass therethough. A second portion of the light beams are internally reflected in multiple times by the reflective regions until they finally escape to outside through the transmission regions. The direction of the light beams can reach various locations of each of the transmission regions at various angles.
US08833966B2	Light device and its light emitting diode module A light device and its light emitting diode module are provided in the disclosure. The light emitting diode module includes a substrate, an arrayed light emitting group and a single sealant body. The arrayed light emitting group includes a plurality of light emitting strings connected between a positive pole and a negative pole in parallel. Each light emitting strings includes a plurality of blue light emitting diode chips and a red light emitting diode chips, which are both electrically connected on the substrate in series. The single sealant body completely covers all of the light emitting strings, and is contained with phosphors uniformly therein.
US08833962B2	Clip-on pocket light with slideable hinge joint A portable pocket light, comprising three sections; (1) a main body containing an electric circuitry board, battery compartment, and a power switch; (2) a lamp section containing a light source, a lens, and a means for rotatably attaching said lamp section to the main body and facilitating rotation of said lamp section in a 300 degree arc about the an extended axis of said main body, and (3) a sheath section comprising two prongs, and an axial means for rotating said main body an unimpaired 360 degrees within the confines of the two sheath prongs. The two prongs further facilitate a self-standing base by means of which the pocket light may rest on a surface and provide stable, adjustably aimed illumination in a plurality of directions and orientations. The pocket light is fabricated with an integral spring-loaded clip which enables temporary attachment of the pocket light to the brim of a wearer's cap, a shirt pocket, or other stable object. Overall, the disclosed pocket light provides low power consumption, and adequately bright light in either a hands-free or a handheld application.
US08833959B2	Display arrangement with optical structure for reducing halo effect A display arrangement includes a decoration layer, a light source underneath the decoration layer, and a lens layer arranged between the decoration layer and the light source. The decoration layer includes at least one void formed in the shape of a character when viewed from above. The lens layer is at least semi-transparent to permit transmission of light from the light source through the void. An optical structure is arranged in alignment with the void and is adapted to reduce intensity of the light in a peripheral region of the void so as to reduce a halo effect. The decoration layer may be formed as an external layer of a key or a button of a portable electronic device, or an outer casing of a portable electronic device.
US08833958B2	Direct backlight module The present invention provides a direct backlight module including a backplane, backlight sources arranged inside the backplane, and a diffusion plate mounted to the backplane and located above the backlight sources. The backplane includes a bottom plate, side plates connected to the bottom plate, and mount units formed on the bottom plate and each having first and second slope surfaces that are inclined in opposite directions. The backlight sources are respectively mounted to the first and second slope surfaces, whereby the backlight sources are set inclined with respect to the diffusion plate in order to increase the distance available for light mixing, improve intensity and homogeneity of illumination, and at the same time reduce the quantity of LED lamps used to reduce the manufacture cost and facilitate size thinning of the backlight module.
US08833957B2	Illumination system, electro-optic device, and electronic apparatus An illumination system includes a light source unit including a light source and a circuit substrate electrically connected to the light source. The light source is placed in the circuit substrate such that at least part of the light source overlaps the circuit substrate in the thicknesswise direction of the circuit substrate.
US08833953B2	Surgical lamps and related systems and methods A surgical lamp includes a lamp body having at least one light source, wherein at least one bundle of light is emitted from the lamp body, a focusing device disposed in the lamp body for focusing the at least one bundle of light, and an operating device that is directly or indirectly connected to the focusing device and is configured to be covered by a sterilizable cover, where the operating device is configured to detect a predetermined motion sequence of an operator in a contactless manner and control the focusing device as a result of the predetermined motion sequence.
US08833949B2	Mirror device for vehicle Suppressing liquid from seeping into an adjusting section through a discharge hole. In a vehicle door mirror device an opening hole in a holder portion of a mirror-surface adjustment-device is in communication with opening outlet of a mirror holder outer through an opening outlet in the mirror holder outer and a gap between the mirror and the mirror holder outer. Accordingly, even suppose water seeps into the mirror-surface adjustment-device through the opening hole in the holder portion, the water would be externally discharged outside the mirror holder outer through the opening hole, the opening outlet, the gap and the opening outlet. Furthermore, even suppose water at high pressure from outside the mirror holder outer is to reach the opening outlet, the water can be suppressed from seeping into the mirror-surface adjustment-device through the opening outlet and the opening hole due to the water pressure being reduced in the gap.
US08833948B2	Mobile electronic device It is a task to provide a mobile electronic device with high operability and high safety. The mobile electronic device includes an image projector that projects an image, a detector that detects a specific change in an irradiation area of light irradiated from the image projector or in a predetermined area including the irradiation area, and a control unit that controls the operation of the image projector. The task is solved in such a manner that when the detector detects the specific change, the control unit causes the image projector to stop emission of light therefrom, or to reduce an amount of light emitted therefrom.
US08833940B2	System and method for illumination and fixation with ophthalmic diagnostic instruments An eye measurement system may include a target that moves transverse to an optical path from the target to eye, so as to relax accommodation of the lens of the eye. The target may move transverse to the optical path on a display. The patient may be fogged while the target moves transverse to the optical path, and the target may become smaller such that the patient perceives the target to be moving away from the patient. A pupil camera may measure eye position that can be correlated with the position of the target on the display to determine that the patient has maintained fixation on the moving target. A visible measurement light beam may be pulsed subsequent to and/or during motion of the target that relaxes accommodation of the eye so as to avoid visual interference of the measurement light beam with the target on the display.
US08833939B2	Fundus image detection apparatus and method for obtaining fundus image of eye of animal A fundus image detection apparatus capable of detecting a fundus image of an eye of an animal is provided. The fundus image detection apparatus includes an image capturing unit and an image processing unit electrically connected with the image capturing unit. The image processing unit has a lookup table. The image processing unit corrects the fundus image of the eye of the animal according to the lookup table to diminish pincushion distortion. Moreover, a method for obtaining a fundus image of an eye of an animal is also provided.
US08833936B2	Ophthalmic lens element A progressive ophthalmic lens element is disclosed. The progressive ophthalmic lens element includes an upper viewing zone, a lower viewing zone, a corridor, and a peripheral region disposed on each side of the lower viewing zone. The upper viewing zone includes a distance reference point (DRP) and a fitting cross, and provides a first refractive power for distance vision. The lower viewing zone, which is for near vision, provides an addition power relative to the first refractive power. The corridor connects the upper and lower zones and provides a refractive power varying from that of the upper viewing zone to that of the lower viewing zone. Each peripheral region includes a zone of positive power relative to the addition power which provides therein a positive refractive power relative to the refractive power of the lower viewing zone. The zones of relative positive power are disposed immediately adjacent to the lower viewing zone such that the lower viewing zone interposes the zones of relative positive power.
US08833935B2	Bifocal lens and bifocal glasses Disclosed is a bifocal lens constructed such that the lens is not easily damaged when hit by flying fragments and, moreover, able to obtain a consistent focal length with a simple construction. The lens is equipped with a transparent substrate having transparency and rigidity, a transparent resilient body having transparency and elasticity, a transparent fluid enclosed in the space between the aforementioned transparent substrate and the aforementioned transparent resilient body, and a mechanism that induces changes in the shape of the aforementioned transparent resilient body. Changes are induced in the shape of the transparent resilient body to form the desired shape in the two states of the lens which comprises the transparent fluid enclosed in the space between the transparent substrate and the transparent resilient body, making it possible to obtain the desired characteristics (accurate optical characteristics) in either of the two states.
US08833934B1	Devices and methods for a contact lens with an outward facing light source A body-mountable device can include a transparent material and a substrate at least partially embedded in the transparent material. The transparent material can have a mounting surface and a surface opposite the mounting surface. A light source can be disposed on the substrate and configured to emit light through the surface opposite the mounting surface. The light source can be controlled by circuitry disposed on the substrate. The circuitry can be configured to receive modulation instructions and modulate the light emitted by the light source based on the modulation instructions.
US08833931B2	Liquid ejection apparatus A liquid ejection apparatus is provided. The liquid ejection apparatus includes a first housing, a second housing, covers and a moving mechanism. The first housing is rotatable relative to the second housing about a rotational shaft between a close position and a separate position. The covers are movable relative to heads provided to the first housing between a protection position of covering the heads and a retraction position. When the first housing is moved from the close position toward the separate position, the moving mechanism moves the covers such that an angle formed between the first housing and the second housing when a cover corresponding to the head away from the rotational shaft reaches the protection position is smaller than an angle formed between the first housing and the second housing when a cover corresponding to the head close to the rotational shaft reaches the protection position.
US08833929B2	Image forming apparatus An image forming apparatus includes a carriage to mount a recording head which discharges a liquid droplet on a recording medium to form an image, a carriage guide member to support the carriage and move the carriage to scan in a main scanning direction orthogonal to a sub-scanning direction in which the recording medium is conveyed, and a recording medium conveyance unit detachably mounted to a main body of the apparatus which includes an endless conveyance belt to convey the recording medium being adsorbed on the belt, and a pair of rollers around which the conveyance belt is extended circulating in the sub-scanning direction. The carriage is cantilevered by the carriage guide member, and the recording medium conveyance unit is removable from a space above the conveyance belt, in an area other than the carriage guide member.
US08833927B2	Printer having skewed transfix roller to reduce torque disturbances An inkjet offset printer includes an imaging drum and a transfix roller skewed with respect to and defining a continuously applied or an uninterrupted nip with the imaging drum to reduce torque disturbances and media wrinkling issues. Acoustic and physical disturbances resulting from a sheet of recording media entering and leaving the nip are reduced or eliminated.
US08833926B1	Custom flush line generation in printing systems that utilize ink drying limits Systems and methods are provided for generating flush lines for printers. The system includes a flush line generator able to receive a print job, to determine a drying limit that defines a maximum areal density of ink for the print job that may be dried by a dryer, and to generate a flush line based on the drying limit that does not exceed the drying limit. The system further includes a marking engine able to mark the print job and the flush line onto a web of printable media upstream from the dryer.
US08833922B2	Printing system for application of a patterned clear layer for reducing gloss banding The invention involves application of a clear, low-density after-layer of high gloss ink onto a printed substrate to reduce or eliminate negative printing effects, such as gloss banding. Some embodiments of the invention involve a method of applying colored ink, curing the colored ink, applying a clear ink layer in a pattern, and curing the clear layer.
US08833921B2	Thin-film forming apparatus, thin-film forming method, piezoelectric-element forming method, droplet discharging head, and ink-jet recording apparatus A thin-film forming apparatus for forming a thin film on a substrate by using an ink-jet method includes an ink applying unit that applies an ink drop for thin-film formation to a predetermined area on a surface of the substrate; at least one laser light source for heating the ink drop thereby forming a thin film; and a laser-light irradiating unit that irradiates, with a laser light from the laser light source, a first spot positioned on a back side of the predetermined area of the substrate to which the ink drop has been applied.
US08833916B2	Liquid ejecting head and liquid ejecting apparatus An liquid ejecting apparatus includes a head main body which ejects liquid and a flow channel member to which the head main body is fixed, the flow channel member includes a plurality of liquid chambers to which the liquid is supplied, and a filter chamber which communicates with each liquid chamber and in which a filter is provided, the liquid passing through the liquid chamber and the filter chamber is supplied to the head main body, inlets which are opened to the liquid chamber and communicate with each filter chamber, the filter chamber includes a plurality of first filter chambers which are juxtaposed in a first row and a plurality of second filter chambers which are juxtaposed in a second row, the first filter chambers directly communicate with the inlet, and the second filter chambers communicate with the inlet through the communicating flow channel.
US08833915B2	Inkjet printer An ink/air separator for an ink jet printer has one or more plates 77, 79, 81, 83 over which an ink/air mixture can spread. Preferably there is more than one plate, and the mixture overflows from one plate to the next. Preferably adjacent plates are spaced so that as the mixture passes between two plates it contacts the surface above it as well as the surface below it. The plates may be separated by a gap of 10 mm or less, e.g. a gap of 2 mm to 5 mm, where they overlap Preferably some or all of the plate surfaces contacted by the mixture are roughened. Interaction between the ink/air mixture and the plate surface tends to slow the flow of very small air bubbles and encourage them to accumulate and/or merge, so that they separate from the ink more quickly than individual small bubbles. The ink/air separator may be connected in the path of unused ink returned from the gutter 27 of a continuous ink jet printer to an ink tank 39, or may be placed inside the ink tank 39.
US08833913B2	Liquid container and image forming apparatus A liquid cartridge includes an ink bag for storing liquid and being capable of changing its shape, a housing for storing the ink bag, a guiding tube member for being placed in the ink bag, and a liquid supply outlet for providing the liquid to outside the ink bag and being connected to an end of the guiding tube member. Another end of the guiding tube member is placed close to or touching a bottom of the ink bag. The liquid cartridge further includes a bottom plate for supporting the bottom of the ink bag. The bottom plate is configured to be moved with respect to the housing. As remaining ink in the ink bag decreases, the bottom plate is moved to be in an inclining state by an inclination adding member that is placed in a cartridge installing unit of an apparatus.
US08833912B2	Replaceable printing component A replaceable printing component includes a housing, and an array of pockets separated by ribs and each having a first geometrical shape formed in a side of the housing, wherein at least one of the ribs between adjacent ones of the pockets is removed to form a combined pocket having a second geometrical shape.
US08833910B2	Piezoelectric actuator and liquid discharge apparatus provided with the same A piezoelectric actuator is provided, including a vibration plate, a piezoelectric layer, a plurality of individual electrodes arranged in two arrays, first and second common electrodes which have first and second facing portions facing parts of the individual electrodes and first and second connecting portions connecting the first and second facing portions respectively, and first and second wiring portions which are arranged on the vibration plate and which are connected to the first and second common electrodes respectively via first and second connecting wirings, wherein one of the first connecting wirings connects the first connecting portion and one of the first wiring portion while striding over the second connecting portion.
US08833907B2	Liquid discharge head and image forming apparatus A liquid discharge head includes a pressure generation part generating pressure to discharge a liquid droplet; and a flexible wiring member connected with the pressure generation part. The flexible wiring member includes a first flexible cable and a second flexible cable which are joined. One end part of the first flexible cable is connected with the pressure generation part, and the other end part of the first flexible cable is joined with one end part of the second flexible cable. The second flexible cable is folded to have a plane part perpendicular to a joint area between the first flexible cable and the second flexible cable and extending in a direction away from the first flexible cable, and the plane part is deformed in response to force applied from a part on which the other end part of the second flexible cable is mounted.
US08833905B2	Ink containing device and ink supply device An ink containing device includes an ink cartridge and an adaptor. The ink cartridge comprises a first main body comprising a chamber configured to store ink, and an ink outlet portion disposed on a first surface of the first main body configured to direct the ink from the chamber to an exterior of the first main body, and an ink detecting portion configured to detect an amount of the ink stored in the ink chamber. The adaptor is configured to attach to the ink cartridge. The adaptor comprises a second main body comprising a second surface, and an electrical interface disposed on the second surface.
US08833902B2	Recording apparatus An apparatus includes a recording head having a sealing portion arranged in proximity to nozzle arrays and protruding beyond a nozzle surface. A wiper unit configured to wipe the nozzle surface of the recording head has a first wiper blade and a second wiper blade, and the first wiper blade is arranged to be inclined by an angle θ1 (θ1>0) with respect to a direction orthogonal to the wiping direction within a plane parallel to the nozzle surface, while the second wiper blade is arranged to be inclined by an angle θ2 (θ2<0) with respect to the direction orthogonal to the wiping direction within the plane.
US08833901B2	Liquid ejection head and method of manufacturing the same A liquid ejection head includes: a chip including a substrate having an energy generating element, an ejection orifice member, and an electrode terminal; an electric wiring board; a support member for supporting the wiring board, the support member having an opening surrounding the chip; a chip periphery sealing member which fills a gap between the chip and the opening; and an electrically connecting portion sealing member disposed in contact with the chip periphery sealing member and which covers an electrically connecting portion between the chip and the electric wiring board. The electrically connecting portion sealing member is a cured product of a material containing filler. The chip periphery sealing member is a cured product of a material containing at least one of specific siloxanes. The chip periphery sealing member and the electrically connecting portion sealing member has a difference in coefficient of linear expansion of 50 ppm/° C. or more.
US08833900B2	Inkjet printing system with managed condensation control airflow Inkjet printing systems are described that have deflection surfaces to guide a condensation reducing airflow between a printing module and a receiver without disrupting inkjet drop placements.
US08833897B2	Inkjet device and controlling method for inkjet device An inkjet recording device includes an inkjet head that is equipped with a nozzle to discharge ink, an ink flow path connected to this inkjet head, an adjustment unit that adjusts the pressure in the ink flow path, and a maintenance unit that wipes the nozzle of the inkjet head, and a control unit that executes a maintenance mode of the inkjet head by controlling the adjustment unit and the maintenance unit. The control unit controls the maintenance unit to wipe the nozzle after the adjustment unit adjusts the pressure inside the ink flow path to a first positive pressure, and then again, after the adjustment unit adjusts the pressure in the ink flow path to a first negative pressure. The control unit further controls the adjustment unit to adjust the pressure in the flow path to a second negative pressure that is smaller than the first negative pressure.
US08833896B2	In-flight ink droplet drying method Inkjet droplets having a vaporizable carrier fluid are jetted from a printhead according to image data. A heated condensation shield is used between a printhead and a target area at which the printhead directs drops protects against condensation of vaporized carrier fluid and creates heat. A heat shield is used between the printhead and a support structure for the printhead protects the printhead and support structure from heat and condensation. A heated zone exists between the heat shield and the condensation shield. The condensation shield is heated to a temperature above a condensation temperature of vaporized carrier fluid in the second region so that ink droplets that pass through the heated zone are heated in a manner that causes ink droplets having a first concentration to spread when printed onto a paper in the target area as if the ink droplets had a higher concentration of at least one percent.
US08833894B2	Motor control device and image forming apparatus A motor control device comprises: a motor control unit; and a signal output unit, wherein the motor control unit controls a motor based on an output signal of the signal output unit, wherein the motor control unit is configured to function as: a first control unit performs a first motor control, in which a current upper limit is estimated based on a rotation speed of the motor and is input to the motor, a second control unit performs a second motor control, in which a second driving current, which is a driving current lower than the first driving current at the end of the first motor control is input, a third control unit performs a third motor control, in which a third driving current to be input to the motor is determined, and a switching unit that sequentially switches the first, second, and third control units.
US08833885B2	Ink jet recording apparatus and recorded article An ink jet recording apparatus records an image on a recording material by ejecting a first ink composition through at least one first liquid ejecting nozzle having an open end. The ink jet recording apparatus also includes a platen having a surface on which the recording medium is placed. The surface is away from the open end at a distance PG satisfying the relationship 0.5 mm
US08833883B2	Liquid discharge head and liquid discharge apparatus A liquid discharge head includes a signal processing circuit which operates with a first voltage, and generates a discharge control signal, a liquid driving circuit including an electrothermal transducer, a driving element which drives the electrothermal transducer, and a control circuit which receives the discharge control signal and outputs, to the driving element, a driving signal having a second voltage higher than the first voltage, and a monitoring circuit which monitors the first voltage and outputs a stop signal upon a drop of the first voltage. The control circuit stops driving the electrothermal transducer by the driving element in accordance with the stop signal. The monitoring circuit includes a transistor including a drain connected to power supply voltage node through a step-down circuit, a source connected to ground side, and a gate receiving the first voltage.
US08833876B2	Hidden wall storage system A hidden wall storage system is disclosed. In one embodiment, a wall depository includes: a storage receptacle assembly adapted for secure, concealed placement in an opening formed within a building wall, generally between a pair of wall studs, the receptacle defined by a rear wall, a left side wall, a right side wall, a top wall, and a bottom wall; and a frame assembly hingedly coupled to the storage receptacle assembly and adapted to pivot outwardly to expose a storage receptacle and to close inwardly to secure and conceal the storage receptacle.
US08833874B2	Rubber track An endless rubber elastic body 1; a plurality of cores 2 arranged at predetermined pitches and extending in a width direction of the rubber elastic body; a steel cord reinforcing layer surrounding the cores; and a lug 4 formed on an outer peripheral surface of the rubber elastic body 1 at predetermined intervals. Thicknesses of respective end portions of each core 2 are gradually decreased or made constant toward respective end edges. A covering thickness t1, t2 of rubber elastic body 1 is thicker at a portion between lugs on each of an inner and outer peripheral surface side than covering thickness T1, T2 of the rubber elastic body. Covering surfaces on both inner and outer peripheral surface sides are flat.
US08833872B1	Lubricating oil monitoring and maintenance caps for rollers of a tracked vehicle A roller of a tracked vehicle includes a lubricating oil reservoir having an open end closed by a sealing body having an outer face and an opposed inner face facing the reservoir, and which is transparent to provide visual access into the reservoir through the open end for lubricating oil level and quality monitoring purposes. A depression with a raised rim is formed in the outer face of the sealing body, and a port is formed in the sealing body, which extends through the sealing body at the depression from the outer face to the inner face of the sealing body. A removable plug is applied to and closes the port, and is positioned in the depression and extends outwardly from the outer face of the sealing body no further than the raised rim isolating the plug from shearing forces across the outer face of the sealing body.
US08833870B2	Hill roll-back and roll-forward control systems and methods A triggering module selectively generates a triggering signal when a vehicle is stopped, a grade of a surface is one of greater than a predetermined positive grade and less than a predetermined negative grade, and a brake pedal position is greater than a predetermined position. A brake actuator provides brake fluid to a braking system when the brake pedal position is greater than the predetermined position. A brake releasing module, after the triggering signal is generated, begins releasing the brake fluid from the braking system a predetermined period after the brake pedal position reaches the predetermined position. A brake applying module selectively operates a brake fluid pump after the triggering signal is generated based on a comparison of a vehicle speed and a predetermined vehicle speed. The brake fluid pump provides brake fluid to the braking system when the brake fluid pump is operated.
US08833869B2	Vehicle brake system A brake system which can secure quietness in a passenger compartment is provided. A vehicle brake system 1 includes a brake assist device 2 which boosts a pressing force on a brake pedal 5 by drive of a motor 31, and an assist control unit 6 which controls the motor 31. The assist control unit 6 changes responsiveness of the motor 31 in accordance with a vehicle speed, and sets a dead zone amount and a filtering value to large values in a region with a low vehicle speed. Thereby, responsiveness of a boosting operation of the motor 31 to the operation of the brake pedal is made low, and a rotational variation and a vibration are prevented from occurring to the motor 31 by a minute variation of a detection signal of a stroke sensor 14 during low-speed traveling or stoppage of traveling.
US08833868B2	Brake system for a vehicle A pneumatically-operated vehicle brake system has a first compressed air line in which compressed air at a controllable service brake pressure can be provided. Membrane parts of brake cylinders can be ventilated by the service brake pressure for a service brake function. A parking brake device includes a second compressed air line in which compressed air can be provided at a parking brake pressure electro-pneumatically. Brake cylinder spring brake parts can be ventilated by compressed air at the service brake pressure to provide a parking brake function. The parking brake device also has a ventilation inlet by which the second compressed air line can be ventilated to increase the parking brake pressure, and a first ventilation outlet by which the second compressed air line can be ventilated to reduce the parking brake pressure. The second compressed air line can be pneumatically connected to the first via the first ventilation outlet.
US08833866B2	Brake control device A brake control device includes a relay valve that generates a first drive pressure for driving a brake, from an air pressure generated by a first air supply source, based on an pilot pressure applied, and a double check valve that connects the relay valve and a second air supply source that generates a second drive pressure separate to the first air supply source, and that communicates the drive pressure which is generated in either the relay valve or the second air supply source, with the brake. The device also includes a variable load valve that outputs a first pressure according to a pressure of an air spring fitted on a vehicle side, a first solenoid valve group which generates the pilot pressure from the air pressure during service operation, and a second solenoid valve group which outputs, as the pilot pressure, a second pressure according to the first pressure output from the variable load valve during emergency operation.
US08833859B2	Vehicle seat A vehicle seat including: a seat back; and a headrest that is provided to an upper part of the seat back, the headrest including, a frame that is supported to be vibratable with respect to the seat back, a headrest body that is mounted on the frame, a first cover and a second cover that nip and hold the frame in cooperation with each other in the headrest body, and a mass body that is held between the first cover and the second cover.
US08833857B2	Vehicle seat A vehicle seat includes a pair of lower rails that are attached to a vehicle floor and extend parallel to one another, a pair of upper rails that are slidably attached to the lower rails, and a seat cushion that is attached to the pair of upper rails. The seat cushion includes i) a pair of pipe members, each pipe member being a single member that includes a long portion that extends along the corresponding upper rail, and a leg portion that extends downward from a first end portion of the long portion and that is attached to the corresponding upper rail; ii) a first connecting pipe that connects the first end portions of the pair of long portions together; and iii) a pair of plate members extending from the upper rails to the long portions, and attached to second end portions of the long portions.
US08833853B2	Seat for vehicle A seat for a vehicle constructed so that a side seat is provided on an opposite side of a center seat may include a first hinge shaft to which a center seat back of the center seat may be rotatably coupled for folding the center seat back forwards, a second hinge shaft to which a side seat back of the side seat may be rotatably coupled for folding the side seat back forwards, and a folding actuator assembly selectively engaging the side seat back with the center seat back, wherein the folding actuator assembly locks the center seat back to the side seat back when the side seat back may be folded, and releases the center seat back from the side seat back to fold only the center seat back when the center seat back may be folded.
US08833850B2	Vehicle seat A vehicle seat including a rod installed between left and right side frames of a seat cushion, wherein the rod is provided with a weakened part which is configured to promote the buckling distortion of the rod in a predetermined direction, wherein the weakened part includes first and second weakened portions which respectively weakens a portion of a surface of the rod facing a first direction and a portion of a surface of the rod facing a second direction opposite to the first direction at an end portion of a side of the rod to which an impact load is inputted, so that the rod is configured to be bent in the first direction and the second direction, and wherein the first weakened portion is formed closer to the side to which the impact load is inputted than the second weakened portion.
US08833847B2	Vehicle seat A vehicle seat including: a seat back in which a seat body is supported by a seat frame; a backboard provided on a rear surface of the seat back; and a cloth member covering a surface of the backboard, wherein the backboard is attached to the seat frame to have a convex shape in which a center part of a surface thereof protrudes.
US08833838B2	Vehicle body front structure A vehicle body front structure includes a pair of left and right front side frames which are installed at a front of a vehicle body, and extend in a fore-and-aft direction of the vehicle body; and a power unit disposed in a driving force transmission chamber between the left and right front side frames. The left and right front side frames include respective branch frames which extend from the left and right front side frames obliquely forward and outward in a vehicle width direction, rear ends of the branch frames penetrate through respective outer walls of the left and right front side frames, and extend along inner surfaces of the left and right front side frames, and a reinforcing member is integrally connected to each of intersection portions of the branch frames and the front side frames.
US08833837B2	Utility vehicle A utility vehicle according to the present invention includes a chassis, one or more seat rows arranged on the chassis, a cargo bed arranged behind the seat row(s), the cargo bed turnably supported at a pivot of the chassis so as to be changeable between a normal position in which a front portion of the cargo bed is not raised and a dumping position in which the front portion of the cargo bed is raised, and cargo bed locking mechanisms capable of locking the cargo bed in the normal position to the chassis, the cargo bed locking mechanisms each having a grip of a locking operating lever arranged at a front of the cargo bed.
US08833831B2	Barrier system for protecting bus drivers A barrier apparatus for protecting a bus driver including a vertically-oriented panel selectively moveable along a set of tracks between a forward position and a rearward position within a bus, the forward position including the panel positioned between a driver's seat and a passenger entryway of the bus. The panel is arranged so that, when in the forward position or the rearward position or moved between the forward position and the rearward position, the panel remains on a driver's side of the bus thus ensuring that the panel does not obstruct passenger traffic into and out of the bus during any phase of operation of the barrier system.
US08833828B2	Guide wheel device for guide rail vehicle A guide wheel device for a guide rail vehicle includes a wheel shaft rotatably supported on a bearing, and a main guide wheel and a branch guide wheel rotatably mounted to upper and lower portions of the wheel shaft, wherein the main guide wheel has a rotation center eccentric to an axis of the wheel shaft, a plurality of fitting body receiving portions are provided in an outer peripheral surface of the wheel shaft so as to be arranged sequentially in a circumferential direction, a fitting body to be fitted into the fitting body receiving portions is provided in the bearing, and fitting adjusting means capable of pressing the fitting body against the fitting body receiving portions toward the wheel shaft or releasing the pressing of the fitting body is provided.
US08833825B2	Mantle lifting device and method for lifting a mantle Mantle lifting device (10) has a body (26) configured to selectively engage and disengage an opening (24) of a mantle (12) by rotation in respective opposite directions about a central axis (28) of the body (26). The body (26) is provided with a lifting point (30) which is configured to couple with a lifting device such as a crane (not shown). The body (26) is in the general form of a plug having an upper surface (34) and an opposite surface (36) and tapered circumferential surfaces (38 and 40). The surface (40) is provided with indicia (43) commencing at a distance d on the surface (40) below the edge (42). This is used to indicate safe or unsafe lifting conditions. The indicia (43) being visible when the device (10) is engaged with the mantle (12) is an indication that the mantle (12) is worn to the extent that it may not be safe to lift the mantle (12) by way of the device (10), or at least not without additional safety precautions being taken.
US08833822B2	Lifting assembly A lifting assembly includes a link member defining a pivot axis and a latch axis. The lifting assembly also includes a latch pin and a jaw member. The jaw member is pivotally coupled to the link member about the pivot axis and selectively fixedly coupled to the link member about the latch axis by the latch pin. The jaw member defines a cam surface. Engaging the cam surface with a load rotates a portion of the jaw member into alignment with the latch axis, such that the latch pin may be received by the jaw member and the link member.
US08833815B2	Bumper integrated forward radar mounting system A bumper integrated forward radar mounting system for use with a vehicle is disclosed. The system includes a radar module, a bumper attachment bracket and a bumper extension. The radar module is attached to the bumper attachment bracket. The radar module may comprise one or both of a medium range radar component and a long range radar component. The bumper attachment bracket may be composed of a metal or of a polymerized material selected from one of several plastics, fiberglass or nylon. The bumper extension fitted over the radar module extends from the existing bumper. Radio waves emitted from and received by the radar module must be able to readily pass through the bumper extension without being altered. To be suitable for covering the radar module the bumper extension must be of a uniform thickness, fairly flat and non-metallic with no metal or chrome to interfere with its beam patch.
US08833812B2	Door lock release mechanism for automobile door A door lock release mechanism includes a spacer 40, which is fixed to a handle base 14 and restricts depression of an outside handle in an inward direction of a vehicle when a door of the vehicle is deformed, and an engagement portion 40a, which is formed in the spacer 40 and arranged at a position outside the normal path of an opening operation of the door lock release mechanism. The engagement portion 40a is moved to a position in the path of the opening operation of the door lock release mechanism to restrict the opening operation of a latch open lever 30 through deformation of the door of the vehicle when a side collision occurs. As a result, simply through the engagement portion 40a formed in the spacer 40, which restricts displacement of the outside handle 16 in the inward direction of the vehicle, the unlocking operation of the latch open lever 30 is prevented to avoid unlocking of the door when the door is deformed through the side collision.
US08833809B2	Window vent stop with flexible side engagement pieces A window vent stop for use in a sliding member of a sliding sash window assembly or a sliding door assembly. The vent stop has a housing adapted to be disposed in a recess in the non-movable sash member of the assembly. This housing includes a cavity with a bottom plate. A tumbler has at least one pivot for pivotally securing the tumbler to the housing for movement between an extended position, to prevent movement of the sliding member and a retracted position, to allow movement of the sliding member. Also within the housing is a spring for biasing the tumbler toward the extended position. The housing has one or more flexible members extending from the end walls of the housing that secure the housing to the non-movable sash member.
US08833808B2	Lock device for vehicle It is an object to obtain a lock device for vehicle which ensures smooth rotation of a lock release lever by preventing the lock release lever from coming in contact with a cam member in a direction substantially parallel to the rotation axis of the lock release lever.The solution therefor is to provide one of a portion of a straddle portion 118 of a lock release lever 115 which is positioned beyond a cam member 104 and a support member 81 with a holding portion 95 which holds a cam follower 119 and a portion of a cam member other than a cam surface 110 thereof in a state of being spaced from each other in a direction parallel to a rotational support shaft 92 by being in slidable contact with the other.
US08833804B2	Hammer union assembly, hammer union seal therefor and method of constructing a hammer union seal A hammer union seal assembly, hammer union seal and method of construction thereof is provided. The method of constructing the hammer union seal includes forming an annular rubber ring having a cylindrical inner surface and a cylindrical outer surface, with the cylindrical outer surface extending between opposite corner edges. The method further includes forming an annular steel ring. Then, recessing and bonding the annular steel ring in one of the corner edges with an outer surface of the steel ring remaining exposed.
US08833801B2	Compensator for connecting pipes for dust-laden flue gas A compensator for connecting a first pipe connection piece to a second pipe connection piece that is arranged at a distance from the first pipe connection piece and that can be moved toward the first pipe connection piece includes an inlet pipe, which is fastened coaxially to the outlet opening of the first pipe connection piece, an outlet pipe, which is arranged approximately coaxially to the inlet pipe, is arranged at a distance from the inlet pipe and is fastened coaxially to the inlet opening of the second pipe connection piece, and a woven-fabric compensator, which connects the inlet pipe and the outlet pipe to each other, wherein gas laden with dust can flow through all aforementioned pipes, said gas being directed from the first pipe connection piece to the second pipe connection piece, and wherein a hollow cylindrical inlet guide plate is fastened to the inlet pipe near the first pipe connection piece, the radius of said inlet guide plate corresponding approximately to the inner radius of the first pipe connection piece.
US08833798B2	Airbag device An airbag is inflated and deployed in a short time, and a protective panel is moved rapidly. An airbag device (1) is disposed in a base section (2) of a vehicle. The airbag device (1) is provided with a protective panel (10) covering the base section (2), an airbag (20), and an inflator. The inflator inflates and deploys the airbag (20) by generating a gas. The airbag (20) has at least two standing portions (30) and inflates and deploys between the base section (2) and the protective panel (10). The standing portion (30) stands up from the base section (2) through inflation and moves the protective panel (10).
US08833796B2	Air bag mounting assembly and methods A knee air bag mounting system is provided that includes an air bag mount for a heavy truck-type vehicle. Such an air bag mount includes a front wall having an air bag aperture therein adapted for passage of an air bag module of the knee air bag system. The air bag mount also includes a first side wall extending away from the front wall, a second side wall extending away from the front wall in opposed-spaced relation to the first side wall, a top wall extending away from the front wall, and a bottom wall extending away from the front wall. A bracket structure is disposed within an interior space of the air bag mount and configured to provide a connection point for the air bag module. Each of the first and second side walls and top and bottom walls are free from direct connection to one another.
US08833793B2	Skibindung A ski binding comprises a sole element, a front retaining device, for retaining a toe of the ski boot, and an automatic heel unit, for retaining the heel of the ski boot. The sole element is pivotally mounted and is oriented transverse of the ski. The automatic heel unit allows release in the forward direction. The ski binding has a downhill position, in which the sole element is oriented parallel to the ski, and a climbing positions, in which the sole element can be pivoted. The automatic heel unit, both in the downhill and climbing positions, is arranged on the ski, with the heel region of a ski boot retained in the ski binding. In the climbing position of the ski binding, the heel can be freed, as a result of which the ski boot, can be pivoted about the pivot axis together with the sole element.
US08833790B2	Military vehicle towing assembly An assembly and method allow military vehicles to be towed. In an embodiment, a towing assembly for towing a vehicle with a towing vehicle includes a lunette. The lunette attaches the towing assembly to the towing vehicle. The towing assembly also includes tow bars. The tow bars are attached to the lunette. At least one of the tow bars is laterally moveable. The towing assembly also includes tow legs. Each tow leg is slidably engaged with an interior of a tow bar. The tow leg is attachable to the vehicle.
US08833785B2	Clamping system for a vehicle fork with a suspension system A clamping system for a vehicle fork with a suspension system features a lower triple clamp (24) and an upper support (25), the lower triple clamp (24) having a lower plate (242) and a fork shaft (240) to be mounted in a way that enables it to pivot on the vehicle frame (23), the lower plate (242) having two lower housings (241a, 241b) to receive two shock absorbers (21a, 21b) set parallel to one another and in front of the fork shaft (240). The clamping system (2) includes fitting devices to assemble the upper support (25) on the fork shaft (240) and stiffening devices (26a, 26b) set apart from the fork shaft (240) to maintain the relative orientations of the lower triple clamp (24) and the upper support (25).
US08833780B2	Active suspension system and method An active suspension system suitable for use with a vehicle, includes a passive suspension element with a first end adapted for rigid engagement to a sprung mass of the vehicle and a second end adapted for rigid engagement to an unsprung mass of the vehicle. Also included is an active suspension element with a linear switched reluctance actuator which has a first end adapted for rigid engagement to the sprung mass of the vehicle and a second end adapted for rigid engagement to the unsprung mass of the vehicle.
US08833779B1	Torsion axle assembly with connection node component A torsion axle assembly for a rear suspension of a vehicle is provided. The torsion axle assembly includes a torsion axle cross beam, a first trailing arm, a second trailing arm, and a connection node component. The torsion axle cross beam has a first end and a second end. Each of the first trailing arm and the second trailing arm has a first end coupled with the vehicle frame and a second end configured to support a rear wheel of the vehicle. The connection node component is formed as a single unitary piece and is configured to couple the torsion axle cross beam, one of the first and second trailing arms, and a rear wheel hub.
US08833776B2	Carriage for transport of an aircraft engine module A carriage configured to transport an aircraft engine module from a preparation station to an assembly station includes, on a dolly, a reinforcement structure configured to be made horizontally mobile by sliding on balls, two vertically mobile brackets, and moving fingers to slide under the module's supports. The module is then supported by the carriage in a safe manner, can be raised and transported, and can also be temporarily overturned to check that its interior is empty.
US08833774B2	Suspension for wheeled vehicles A wheelchair suspension comprises a frame, at least one pivot arm, at least one front caster, at least one rear caster, a stabilizing system, and a sensor. The pivot arm is coupled to the frame. The front caster is coupled to the pivot arm. The rear caster is coupled to the frame. The stabilizing system is coupled to the frame and the pivot arm. The sensor is arranged such that tipping of the frame causes actuation of the stabilizing system to at least partially resist further movement of the frame.
US08833773B2	Workholding apparatus for workpiece transfer A workholding apparatus comprising a chuck body, first jaw members and second jaw members wherein the second jaw members are shaped to grip a workpiece of a particular geometry. The first and second jaw members are constructed to enable easy, quick and manual replacement of the second jaw members with other second jaw members having different grip shapes so as to enable gripping of workpieces with different geometries.
US08833771B2	Gasket assembly with improved locating and retention pin and method of construction thereof A gasket assembly and method of construction is provided. The assembly includes a carrier body having opposite planar surfaces with at least one media-conveying opening extending through the planar surfaces with at least one through opening spaced radially from the at least one media-conveying opening. Further, the carrier body has at least one projection formed of the material of the carrier body. The at least one projection extends from the at least one through opening outwardly from at least one of the planar surfaces. The assembly further includes an elastomeric material encapsulating the projection.
US08833768B1	Storytelling game and method of play A method of play, wherein play emphasizes storytelling and story recounting abilities, and wherein the method comprises: (a) providing a gaming device which provides for: a plurality of subject elements, wherein each subject element from the plurality of subject elements comprises a topic for a particular story; and a plurality of situational elements, wherein each situational element from the plurality of situational elements qualifies the subject element; (b) pairing a subject element from the plurality of subject elements with a situational element from the plurality of situational elements; and (c) providing a story based on the paired subject element and selected situational element.
US08833765B2	Paper sheet conveying apparatus and image forming apparatus A paper sheet conveying apparatus includes: a conveying path in which a paper sheet is conveyed; a plurality of conveying rollers; a plurality of driving motors; an out-of-step detection portion; a stop control portion; and a driving restart control portion. The plurality of conveying rollers are disposed along the conveying path. The plurality of driving motors rotates the conveying rollers. The out-of-step detection portion detects an out-of-step in each of the driving motors. The stop control portion stops each of the driving motors when an out-of-step is detected. The driving restart control portion drives, after each of the driving motors is stopped, a first driving motor in which an out-of-step has occurred, and a second driving motor in which no out-of-step occurs, under a driving start condition that an amount of rotation of the second driving motor is less than an amount of rotation of the first driving motor.
US08833763B2	Paper conveying apparatus, jam detection method, and computer-readable, non-transitory medium There are provided a paper conveying apparatus, a jam detection method and a computer-readable, non-transitory medium that can suppress erroneous detection of a jam by sound due to the sound which a paper which has a wrinkle generates. The paper conveying apparatus includes a separator, a sound signal generator, provided with a sound detector provided at a downstream side of the separator, for generating a sound signal in accordance with the sound generated by a paper during conveyance, a sound jam detector for determining whether a jam has occurred based on the sound signal, and a wrinkle detector, provided at a downstream side of the separator, for detecting optically a wrinkle of a paper, wherein the sound jam detector changes the method of detection of the jam when the wrinkle detector detects a wrinkle of a paper.
US08833761B2	Method for monitoring the transport of bank notes A method for monitoring transport of bank notes in a transport system, using sensors arranged along the transport system for sensing transported bank notes, and a control device for monitoring and controlling the transport system using signals from the sensors, from which the control device derives a presence or absence of a bank note at the location of the respective sensor. The signals from all sensors are stored in a memory, and the signals from all sensors are assigned an explicit time statement or clock statement. All transported bank notes are assigned an explicit object code by the control device, and the object code is linked to the explicit time statement or clock statement. Stored signals from the sensors derive the occurrence and type of errors during the transport of the bank notes, and the signals are linked to the bank notes denoted by the object codes.
US08833757B1	Method of using separator roll positioner in a removable media dam and separator roll speed to correct feed errors A method of using a separator roll positioner and separator roll rotational speed to correct media feed errors by angularly rotating a separator roll between a retracted position and an extended position to adjust the height of the separator roll with respect to a media contact surface or by varying separator roll rotational speed thereby varying the media sheet separation force.
US08833754B2	Sheet feeding apparatus and image forming apparatus A sheet feeding apparatus capable of reliably feeding a sheet even when a gap is formed between the sheet and a regulating portion, and an image forming apparatus are provided. A tail end regulating plate 13 regulates a movement of a sheet supported by a tray supporting the sheet so as to be lifted or lowered, and when a gap is formed between the tail end regulating plate 13 and the sheet supported by the tray, tail end regulating projections 18H and 18I which are provided so as to protrude to the gap regulate the movement of the sheet toward the tail end regulating plate 13.
US08833752B2	Sheet feeding device In a sheet feeding device, a main body includes a feeding unit configured to feed a sheet in a feeding direction to a conveying path. A cover is configured to pivot about a first axis relative to the main body between a closed position in which the cover closes the conveying path and an open position in which the cover exposes the conveying path. A plate is configured to pivot about a second axis which is parallel to the first axis and to contact and move away from the feeding unit. The second axis is closer to the cover than to the feeding unit in the feeding direction. In a state in which the cover is in the closed position, at least a part of the cover is positioned on an upper side of the plate so as to be contactable with the plate.
US08833745B2	Seismic isolation device and seismic isolation structure The present invention is intended to provide a seismic isolation device which, regardless of a load to be supported, is capable of reducing acceleration through lengthening a natural period of an upper structure, with excellent vibration energy absorbing capacity by obtaining a properly preferable frictional force as well as a returning characteristic, and others.
US08833742B2	Co-current vapor-liquid contacting apparatuses for offshore processes An offshore co-current vapor-liquid contacting apparatus includes stages having contacting modules. Each contacting module includes a downcomer extending in a direction and has downcomer baffles distanced from each other in the direction to define downcomer cells within the downcomer. Each downcomer includes an outlet proximate to a co-current flow channel. A receiving pan extends substantially parallel to the downcomer and has receiving pan baffles distanced from each other in the direction to define receiving pan sections within the receiving pan. A vapor-liquid separation device has an inlet surface proximate to the co-current flow channel and an outlet surface above the receiving pan. Ducts are provided, with each duct having an upper end in fluid communication with a respective receiving pan section and a lower end in fluid communication with a selected downcomer cell in an immediately inferior stage.
US08833741B2	Air-to-air atmospheric exchanger A sheet for use in a heat exchange apparatus. The sheet includes a first vertical rib that extends generally parallel to the vertical axis of the heat exchange apparatus. The sheet also includes a second vertical rib that extends, substantially all the way between the first and second edges of the sheet generally parallel to the first vertical rib. The sheet further includes a first horizontal rib that extends substantially all the way between the third and fourth edges of the sheet. The sheet additionally includes a second horizontal rib that extends substantially all the way between the third and fourth edges of the sheet generally parallel to the first horizontal rib.
US08833740B2	Natural evaporation type humidifier and air control device having the same A natural evaporation type humidifier includes a reservoir for containing liquid, an absorbent member for absorbing the liquid in the reservoir by capillary action, and a supporter for supporting the absorbent member. The supporter is detachably assembled with the reservoir and has a portion extended away from the reservoir to guide the absorbent member to a position outside the reservoir.
US08833738B2	Desalination system A desalination system in the form of a submerged gas evaporator that includes a vessel, a gas delivery tube partially disposed within the vessel to deliver a gas into the vessel and a fluid inlet that provides a fluid to the vessel at a rate sufficient to maintain a controlled constant level of fluid within the vessel. During operation, gas introduced through the tube mixes with the fluid and the combined gas and fluid flow at a high rate with a high degree of turbulence, thereby promoting vigorous mixing and intimate contact between the gas and the fluid, which leads to a more efficient and complete evaporation. Additionally, vapor exiting the submerged gas evaporator is condensed in a condensing unit thus precipitating vapor into a liquid for removal.
US08833737B2	Rackable fencing of components optimized for preassembly shipping A rackable fence with a rail, picket carrier, and plurality of pickets. The rail defines a rigid inverted U-shaped cross-section. The picket carrier includes a top span residing within and extending across the interior of the rail. The pickets are pivotally attached to the picket carrier and pivotable toward the rail.
US08833734B2	Livewell fill valve Embodiments of the invention provide a fill valve for use in a livewell of a boat. The fill valve includes an intake and a valve housing coupled to the intake. The valve housing includes a rounded half-sphere shaped front wall coupled to a substantially flat back wall. The front wall includes one or more inlet openings in fluid communication with the intake. The fill valve also includes a valve switch positioned in the valve housing to switch between a first position allowing fluid communication between the inlet openings and the intake and a second position providing a substantially liquid-tight seal between the inlet openings and the intake.
US08833730B2	Cam control valve A cam control valve includes a valve casing having a fluid passage and valve seat, a valve disc seated on the valve seat to open and close the fluid passage, a valve stem holding down the valve disc so it contacts the valve seat, a cam acting on the valve stem to hold it down, a motor rotating the cam, a motor holder holding the motor, a supporting frame fixed to the valve casing and supporting the motor holder so it moves vertically, an elastic member biasing the motor holder towards spacing from an upper side portion of the supporting frame, and height adjustable screws suspending the motor holder from the supporting frame, and adjusting a height of the motor holder with respect to the supporting frame, wherein the height adjustable screws are slidably inserted into the upper side portion of the supporting frame and screwed into the motor holder.
US08833729B2	Proportional throttle valve A proportional throttle valve includes a valve piston (2) functioning as a variable orifice and displaceably guided in the longitudinal direction in a valve housing (3) having a fluid inlet (4) and a fluid outlet (5). Since a leading edge (6) of the valve piston (2) is formed by a control piston (7) of a flow regulator (8) for the fluid connection of the fluid inlet (4) and the fluid outlet (5), the flow control valve and the proportional throttle valve are functionally combined in one valve unit.
US08833724B2	Radiation shield support system and method Disclosed herein is new and improved system and method for supporting radiation shields. The system may include a first frame subassembly, a second frame assembly, and a quick disconnect. The first frame sub assembly may include an upper partial ring support, a lower partial ring support, and a plurality of vertical supports. The second frame sub assembly may include an upper partial ring support, a lower partial ring support, and a plurality of vertical supports. The second frame subassembly may have a ring hole. The quick disconnect may include a plug and a bolt. The plug may be permanently affixed to the first frame subassembly, and the bolt may be configured to pass through the ring hole and the plug hole in order to removably secure the first frame subassembly to the second frame subassembly.
US08833720B2	Modular support device A modular support device includes a plurality of interconnected inner bases each having an upstanding plate member, first and second slidable connecting members extending respectively on two opposite sides of the upstanding plate member, and two first support members each disposed between one of the first and second slidable connecting members and the upstanding plate member. The first slidable connecting member of one of the inner bases is slidably connectible to the second slidable connecting member of the other inner base to adjust a distance between the upstanding plate members. The first support members of each adjacent pair of the inner bases cooperate with each other for supporting an article thereon. The upstanding plate members of each adjacent pair of the inner bases cooperate with each other to sandwich therebetween the article.
US08833719B2	Sprinkler clamp The present invention relates to a clamp for fastening a sprinkler to a support mounted on a ceiling. The clamp is formed by bending an iron piece into a square box shape, wherein the left and right sides of the square box are open such that the support is pushed and inserted into the space formed between the upper and lower surfaces of the square box. The clamp comprises: coupling openings formed through the upper and lower surfaces of the clamp such that the sprinkler is inserted into the coupling openings; an inlet/outlet opening formed by cutting out one of said left and right sides such that the sprinkler can be inserted into the coupling openings; reinforcement ribs formed around the coupling openings formed through the upper and lower surfaces of the clamp; a bolt hole formed through the front surface of the clamp, in front of the coupling openings, such that a bolt can be fastened into the bolt hole; said bolt which fastened into the bolt hole; and a tight contact piece interposed between the bolt and the sprinkler inserted into the coupling openings.
US08833717B1	Hanger device and tote An hanger apparatus including one or more extension elements with each extension element including a top portion and a bottom portion with the top portion having at least one flexible connector connection with the top portion also in communication with the bottom portion and the bottom portion including apertures for connecting a pool pole-head attachment, with the apparatus additionally including a flexible connector connecting to the at least one flexible connector connection of the top portion.
US08833716B2	Tablet mounting systems and methods A tablet mounting system for mounting a tablet. A tablet mounting system with an interface for attaching the mounted tablet to a support object. A tablet mounting system with edge retaining members to retain the tablet.
US08833712B2	Pole assembly A pole assembly to be mounted on a supporting platform to support photovoltaic modules includes a supporting pole, a fixing pole pivotably attached to the supporting pole, a first mounting member fixed on the supporting platform, and a second mounting member fixed on the supporting platform. The first mounting member defines a locking slot. A pin is attached to one end of the supporting pole opposite to the fixing pole. The pin is locked into the locking slot of the first mounting member. One end of the fixing pole opposite to the supporting pole is fixed to the second mounting member.
US08833711B2	Two post rack with floor mounting brackets A bracket assembly for mounting a rack to a floor includes a bracket. The bracket includes a rack-mounting surface having at least one pair of rack-mounting openings for mounting the bracket to the rack, and a floor-mounting surface extending from the rack-mounting surface. The floor-mounting surface has at least three pairs of floor-mounting openings for mounting the bracket to the floor.
US08833707B2	Disposable urology drainage bag A urology drainage bag system has disposable clamps and/or bands that are disposed of along with the disposable urology drape. The drape, clamps, and band may comprise an integrated system for disposal as a unit. In some embodiments, the drape, clamps, and band are assembled together at the time of manufacture and sold as an integrated unit such that assembly of the drape onto the band by the end users at the point of use is not needed. Several plastic molded clamp embodiments are disclosed. Alternative methods and devices for supporting a flexible band and drainage bag relative to an OR table are also disclosed.
US08833705B2	Conduit hanger with a load-distribution plate A conduit hanger with at least one bracket element to receive a pipe, with a load-distribution plate that is placed into the bracket element, and with a fastening device for fastening the load-distribution plate to the bracket element. The fastening device has at least one catching element to grip the bracket element as well as a counter-bearing element, which are arranged offset on the load-distribution plate in the lengthwise direction of the plate, and between which a holding space is formed for the bracket element, and that the front of the bracket element has at least one recess that corresponds to the catching element so that the bracket element can be placed into the holding space.
US08833704B1	Cooking pan support apparatus A support apparatus to releasably attach to the handle of a frying pan, skillet, or other type of handle-bearing cookware to lift the cooking pan at an angle relative to a stove cooktop or other surface to drain grease, sauce, or other liquid to the edge of the pan and away from the food in the pan. The apparatus includes a jaw or clamp portion for releasable capture of the pan handle; a body portion including a spring portion to provide a spring tension to the clamp portion; and a base portion to rest and stabilize the apparatus on a stove cooktop, kitchen countertop, or other surface.
US08833703B2	Systems and method for a crossing equipment controller Various methods and systems are provided for a crossing equipment controller. In one embodiment, a method comprises prior to a vehicle entering a diverging zone, calculating a travel time until the vehicle at a determined position would reach a crossing based on one or more vehicle conditions, and in response to the vehicle entering the diverging zone, updating the travel time with a time-based countdown.
US08833702B2	Autonomous satellite orbital debris avoidance system and method An autonomous system for a satellite which calculates collision paths of debris from anywhere within the spheroid around the satellite by using its radar/ladar data and from data on its own orbit derived by onboard sensors such as star, earth and sun sensors or from stored data sent from its ground control station through the satellite's command subsystem. If a collision would be likely, the system calculates the minimum change in the satellite's orbit to avoid such collision and generates and executes commands for firing on-board orbital control thrusters to put the satellite in a suitable avoidance orbit.
US08833701B2	Moisture dispersion A method of reducing the amount of water in a region of air including: forming seed ice crystals; dispensing the seed ice crystals towards the region of air; allowing water in the region of air to freeze or deposit onto the seed ice crystals; and allowing the resulting ice crystals to move from the region of air so as to reduce the amount of water in the region of air. An ice crystal seeding assembly arranged to reduce the amount of water in a region of air, the seeding assembly includes an ice crystal seeder and dispensing means, the dispensing means being arranged to dispense seeded ice crystals towards the region of air so that water in the region of air freezes or deposits onto the seed ice crystals and that the resulting ice crystals move from the region of air.
US08833698B2	Overhead luggage compartment for vehicle cabin An overhead luggage compartment for a vehicle cabin is provided. The compartment has a ledge pivotably held about a pivot axis in a housing half-shell. The ledge is connected to the housing half-shell through a damper for damping a pivoting movement. One end of the camper is attached to a ledge side wall. The other end of a damper is attached to a damper fastening element. The damper fastening element is rotatably attached to the ledge side wall about the pivot axis. A damper mating fastening element corresponding to the damper fastening element is fixedly attached to a housing half-shell side wall opposing the ledge side wall. With an engagement of the damper fastening element in the damper mating fastening element, a connection, which is fixed in terms of rotation, is made between the damper fastening element and the damper mating fastening element.
US08833697B2	Component, reinforcement member, structural arrangement, aircraft or spacecraft and method A component for connecting structures to intersection regions of said component is disclosed, particularly for an aircraft or spacecraft, including a coupling element, including a first fiber which wraps around the coupling element so that the first fiber extends in a first plane in front of the coupling element and in a second plane behind the coupling element, the first and second planes intersecting, and including a second fiber which wraps around the coupling element so that the second fiber extends in a third plane in front of the coupling element and in a fourth plane behind the coupling element, the third and fourth planes intersecting, and with the first fiber portions of the first and second fibers crossing over in a first region and the second fiber portions of the first and second fibers crossing over in a second region.
US08833695B2	Aircraft hydraulic air bleed valve system An aircraft hydraulic air bleed valve system having an air vent valve connected to an electronic controller where the opening of the air vent valve is permitted only when the aircraft is in a pre-determined flight mode where the aircraft flight mode is determined by a gyroscope connected to the controller.
US08833690B2	Wire-winding device An exemplary wire-winding device can automatically wind a wire that is connected to a plug such as the plug of an earphone set. The wire-winding device includes a rotary wire-winding unit and a locking unit. A plug inlet channel and a moving cavity are defined in the rotary wire-winding unit. The locking unit includes a moving member accommodated in the moving cavity, for controlling locking and releasing of the rotary wire-winding unit. When the plug is inserted into the moving cavity, the plug applies a thrust force to the moving member, and the moving member moves in the moving cavity under the thrust force and thereby releases the rotary wire-winding unit to allow the rotary wire-winding unit to rotate and automatically wind the wire.
US08833685B1	Universal nutcracker The Universal Nutcracker is set of jaws with an increasing opening between top and bottom jaws to allow for cracking different diameter nuts connected by a set of linkages. Each jaw has a set of teeth for gripping the shell of the nut to be cracked. A torsion spring is connected between the top and bottom center lever to assist in opening the jaw set after the nut has been cracked. Ends of top and bottom center levers are then coupled to a scissoring arms with linkage assembly for opening and closing with a mechanical advantage.
US08833682B2	Fish carcass disposal system A water-powered fish carcass disposal system that floats in a body of water, grinds fish carcasses into pieces having a desired size, and returns the pieces of the ground fish carcasses into the body of water.
US08833679B2	Electrostatic spray system with grounding teeth A system, in certain embodiments, includes a spray device having a frame with a receptacle configured to receive a self-contained spray can, a trigger assembly disposed within the frame and configured to selectively engage a spray of fluid from a spray nozzle of the self-contained spray can, a grounding system having a first conductive element configured to contact the self-contained spray can, and an electrostatic charge system coupled to the grounding system. The first conductive element includes a first tooth configured to extend at least partially into an exterior surface of the self-contained spray can.
US08833673B2	Straw for dispensing fluids A straw for dispensing fluids includes a first end, a second end opposite the first end, an outer surface, and at least one aperture extending from the first end to the second end defining an inner surface. The aperture has a non-circular cross-sectional shape, such as an oval, an ellipse, a tear drop, and the like. The straw is made of a durable, non-toxic material, such as thermoplastic material that is suitable to withstand a temperature of the fluid of up to 212 degrees Fahrenheit, while preventing toxin release related to common cold beverage straws when immersed in hot beverages.
US08833672B2	Flow control device and method for irrigation sprinklers An irrigation sprinkler is provided having a nozzle and a flow control device for reducing fluid flow through the sprinkler when the nozzle is removed, such as might occur due to vandalism. The flow control device is coupled to the nozzle and is moveable between a first irrigating position and a second signaling position. In the first position, the sprinkler discharges fluid for irrigation. In the second position, the sprinkler discharges a reduced amount of fluid and signals that the nozzle has been removed and should be replaced. The flow control device also allows sufficient fluid flow for flushing debris out of the sprinkler when a flush cap is mounted to the sprinkler, instead of the nozzle.
US08833670B2	Intelligent thermostatic water outflowing device The present invention discloses an intelligent thermostatic water outflowing device in the field of sanitary wares. By using said intelligent thermostatic water outflowing device, the defects of the current thermostatic water outflowing devices are overcome, such as a relatively complicated whole structure, a high cost and a poor applicability to ordinary valves. The intelligent thermostatic water outflowing device of the invention comprises a body provided with a hot water inflowing passage, a cold water inflowing passage and a water outflowing passage, and a valve core assembly provided between the cold water inflowing passage, the hot water inflowing passage and the water outflowing passage within the body. The present device further includes a motor, a water temperature control circuit and a temperature sensor. The valve core rod of the valve core assembly is connected with the output shaft of the motor fixed within the body. The temperature sensor is placed in the water outflowing passage and connected with the water temperature control circuit. The water temperature control circuit is connected with the motor and has an external power source connected thereto for supplying the power. The operation of the motor could be controlled by the water temperature control circuit according to the outflowing water temperature detected by the temperature sensor. The device has advantages such as a high precision, good safety and an excellent visual effect.
US08833666B2	Smart card device In various embodiments a smart card device is provided, including a processor, a power interface configured to provide power to at least one smart card device external device, a first receiving antenna configured to provide power to the processor, and a second receiving antenna configured to provide power to the power interface.
US08833664B2	Enhanced performance and security RFID device The present invention is directed to a selectively accessible enhanced radio-frequency identification (RFID) device, that is enhanced performance and security by being selectively responsive to predetermined electromagnetic interrogation thereof, that comprises an enhanced component for enabling a user to adjust and/or increase readable distances and selectively enable or disable interrogatory access to the enhanced RFID device, to protect from unauthorized interrogation thereof. The inventive enhanced RFID device comprises an antenna, a microchip and at least one enhanced component. The enhanced component may use “Electromagnetic Induction” to the antenna to increase performance (increase readable distances) and “Electromagnetic Shield”, to cover the antenna (for turn Off the RFID device). Therefore, the enhanced RFID device of the present invention provides an inventively user controllable, two functions in one of enhanced component, for enhanced performance and greater level of data security advantageously balanced with convenience.
US08833663B2	Image processing techniques for printing identification cards and documents The invention relates to identification documents, and in particular to pre-printing processing covert images, such as UV or IR images, provided on such identification documents. In one implementation, the invention provides a method of processing a digital image that is to be printed on a surface of an identification document as a fluorescing-capable image to improve the quality of the image. Edges or boundaries are detected within the image, the detected edges or boundaries forming an intermediate image. The edges or boundaries within the image are emphasized, and the emphasized image is used for printing the covert image. In some implementations of the invention, a digital watermark is embedded in the covert image.
US08833660B1	Converting a data stream format in an apparatus for and method of reading targets by image capture An apparatus and method read a target by capturing return light from the target with a solid-state monochrome imager operative for generating an output data stream in a monochrome format having a plurality of slots containing pixel data indicative of an image of the target, and with a color controller for receiving the output data stream in a color format different from the monochrome format. A converter circuit converts the monochrome format into the color format and includes an input formatter for formatting the output data stream to have additional slots, a buffer for receiving auxiliary pixel data related to the image of the target, and an output formatter for inserting the auxiliary pixel data from the buffer into the additional slots and for processing both the pixel data and the auxiliary pixel data to enhance the reading of the target.
US08833655B2	Magnification compensating sighting systems and methods A method is used to determine an aiming point for a sighting system used by a shooter to shoot a target. The method includes receiving a range signal that corresponds to a distance from the shooter to the target. A first position signal is received from a magnification system sensor. A first magnification setting based at least in part on the first position signal is then determined. Thereafter, a first aiming point based at least in part on both of the range signal and the first magnification setting is determined.
US08833654B1	Methods for assigning traceability information to and retrieving traceability information from a store shelf A shelf code in a machine readable format, such as on a QR code on a printed card, is provided where bulk merchandise displayed in a bin. When the bin is stocked from a case bearing a case code, the case code is associated with the shelf code. Lot-specific and lot-independent information previously associated with the case code is then linked to the shelf code. Consumers scan the shelf code with a mobile device to establish a communication channel to access the linked information. Retailers and producers use the channel to reach the consumer, and to solicit feedback from the consumer at a known time and location. A mobile device can also be used to associate quality assessments of merchandise to the shelf code. Analysis of consumer ratings and quality inspection assessments that are tied to time and location can provide valuable insights to both producers and retailers.
US08833650B1	Online shopping sites for redeeming loyalty points An online shopping site can permit users to purchase items placed in a shopping cart. Purchasing options include paying with negotiable funds and paying with loyalty points of an entity. The entity can be a partner having an agreement with the provider of the online shopping site (referred to as a commerce partner). Per the agreement, the entity compensates the commerce partner for redeemed loyalty points. The compensation can be sufficient to pay the commerce partner for the items that were placed in the shopping cart plus the cost of providing the Web site. The items available for the online shopping site may be items that are not otherwise available to members of the loyalty program, who are able to redeem loyalty points directly with the entity for a restricted set of goods or services.
US08833646B1	Banking system controlled responsive to data bearing records A card actuated automated banking machine (10) is operative to early out financial transactions responsive to data included on user cards. The banking machine includes a user interface (15) including a display (24). The user interface includes a card reader (16) which is operative to read data on user cards which identify at least one of user and a user's financial accounts. A fascia of the machine includes a keypad (404, 438, 458) through which users input confidential data. Covers (400, 422, 430) prevent unauthorized persons from viewing confidential inputs to the keypad. Authorization signals assure that the display is operating in a manner that provides appropriate user instructions. A visual indicator is operative to indicate to a user that keypad inputs are being encrypted. Alternatively a touch screen display module (608) is operative to securely receive manual inputs and/or card data.
US08833642B2	System for on-site management of an event A system includes a first portable, ruggedized, and waterproof case. The first portable, ruggedized, and waterproof case includes a router and a switch. The system further includes a computing system connectable to the switch. The computing system includes a memory for storing first ticket information and a first set of instructions. The computing system further includes a first processor that, upon execution of the first set of instructions, receives a ticket identifier scanned from a ticket. The first processor also compares the ticket identifier to the stored first ticket information. Based on the comparison, the first processor further generates an indication of validity of the ticket. The first processor further transmits the indication of validity of the ticket.
US08833636B2	Forming an array of metal balls or shapes on a substrate A process and apparatus for forming and transferring metal arrays of balls and shapes is described incorporating molds, tape, injection molded metal such as solder, metal reflow and a mask on a substrate for shearing solidified metal of metal arrays into respective openings in the mask.
US08833634B2	Electronic component mounting system An object of the invention is to provide an electronic component mounting system which can execute component mounting work on a plurality of boards simultaneously, concurrently and efficiently so that high productivity and responsiveness to production of many items can be achieved consistently. Provided is an electronic component mounting system formed so that a screen printing module M2 is connected to an upstream side of a component mounting portion having board delivery mechanisms, wherein: the screen printing module M2 has a first individual printing mechanism 8A and a second individual printing mechanism 8B which are controlled individually so that printing operations can be performed independently and setup change work due to change in print target board type can be executed individually; and a board distributing module M3 which is attached to the screen printing module M2 and which distributes the boards printed and conveyed out of the individual printing mechanisms to the board delivery mechanisms 12A and 12B on the downstream side in accordance with any board distributing pattern.
US08833631B2	Delivery applicator for radioactive staples for brachytherapy medical treatment A staple delivery applicator for delivering radioactive staples during brachytherapy medical treatment has an actuating device for attaching source staples located distally thereform. The actuating device is removably attachable to an actuator arm on a proximal end. A staple applicator cartridge holder is attached to the actuator arm on a distal end. The staple applicator cartridge is mountable in the holder and has slots for mounting of radioactive source staples therein. An anvil therein crimps the staples. The staple applicator cartridge holder is removably mountable in a connector and the connector is also removably mounted to a surgical staple holder. A trigger device has a control for closing the anvil of the cartridge holder and for firing of the source staples in the cartridge therein to cause the staples to crimp, and a control for opening the anvil and releasing the trigger device from the actuator arm.
US08833627B2	Dual operating mode plastic fastener dispensing handtool A dual operating mode hand tool for dispensing plastic fasteners and a method for transitioning the hand tool from a first operating mode to a second operating mode is provided. The hand tool tagging gun can be used both to dispense a plastic fastener to attach labels, price tags or other items to articles, and also to dispense a plastic fastener to maintain certain articles of clothing in a folded condition. The hand tool has a gun shaped casing, a hollow needle, a needle assembly, a trigger, a locking switch, a safety button, and a hinged anvil. In the first operating mode the hand tool is best adapted to dispense plastic fasteners to maintain an article of clothing in a folded condition. In the second operating mode the hand tool is best adapted to dispense plastic fasteners to attach labels, price tags, or other items to an article of clothing.
US08833626B2	Fastening tool A fastening tool includes an actuation device configured to actuate a drive engine of the tool to initiate a drive stroke. The actuation device includes a contact trip assembly operatively connected to the movable portion of the nose assembly. The contact trip assembly a lower contact arm connected to the movable portion of the nose assembly biased in the retracted position and movable to the extended position with the moveable portion of the nose assembly, and an upper contact arm operatively connected to the lower contact arm. The actuation device includes a trigger assembly that includes a trigger, a trigger arm pivotally supported by the trigger and configured to interact with the upper contact arm, and a check pawl configured to engage an opening in the upper contact arm when the upper contact arm moves downward to prevent the tool from being operated in a contact trip mode.
US08833625B2	Bag with variable diameter cording An apparatus for carrying objects includes a bag and at least one cord. The bag has a top portion and a bottom portion. The top portion of the bag includes a channel. The cord includes a first end portion coupled to the bottom portion of the bag, a second end portion coupled to the bottom portion of the bag, and a middle portion positioned between the first end portion and the second end portion. The middle portion of the cord includes a first length of cord which extends slidably through the channel and a second length of cord which is positioned outside of the channel. The second length of cord has a substantially larger diameter than the first length of cord.
US08833619B2	Backpack, such as a hydration backpack The invention relates to a backpack including a main rear pocket adapted to receive a load and carrying straps configured to position and maintain the main rear pocket on the user's shoulders, whereby the main rear pocket is formed by the juncture of a first base panel, made of flexible material, adapted to be in contact with the body of the user, and of a second external panel, also made of flexible material, the first base panel being extended at the ends of the main rear pocket to form two closed side loops for passage of the user's arms, forming the carrying straps.
US08833618B2	Sizer for a hanger, a combination thereof, and a method of use A sizer for a hanger lacking a hook boss includes a pair of longitudinal walls spaced apart from each other by a pair of end sections. The sizer may include a pair of protrusion, wherein a first is disposed on a first wall of the pair of longitudinal walls and directed toward a second wall of the pair of longitudinal walls. A first jaw is disposed on one of the pair of end section. The pair of longitudinal walls flexes apart when the jaw passes over a flange of the hanger. The first jaw includes a lower portion having a curved edge. The first jaw further includes an upper portion. The lower portion and upper portion meet at an abrupt jaw point.
US08833617B1	Sealed fluid container A fuel container includes sealed vessel having a pivoting spout assembly and fill nozzle assembly and a locking assembly. The container provides storage and dispensing of fuels without a user having to manually remove any caps. The spout assembly pivots closed and automatically seals when not in use. An air vent is built into the locking assembly to allow air to enter the vessel only during filling or dispensing, thereby effectively containing fumes within.
US08833611B2	Drip guard This invention relates to a drip guard which is securable to a container and which functions to inhibit or absorb condensation and/or liquid droplets formed on an outer surface of a liquid container. The drip guard has a flexible body which is securable to a liquid container and, in one embodiment, the body functions to inhibit the formation of liquid droplets when the liquid is poured from the container or restrain already formed liquid droplets. In another embodiment the body absorbs condensation or droplets forming on the liquid container in which case the body may be absorbent or it may include an absorbent layer. The body may bear indicia such as, for example, advertising material.
US08833609B2	Paper-based beer container and dispensing appratus therefor The present invention relates to a self supporting closed beverage container (1) of a paper based material (2) composed of a carton for comprising a low-carbonate beverage, wherein said beverage container comprises: —at least one inner liquid sealant polymeric layer (4) welded to the paper based material; and/or —an inner bag (11) for holding a beverage and which inner bag (11) has a deformable wall part which is compressible, for dispensing beverages from the container upon deformation of the flexible wall part caused by gas pressure produced by pressure means (12); and the beverage container (1) comprises: —at least one beverage delivering tube (5) having at least one flexible section, —at least one beverage outlet opening (6) through which a lower part (7) of said beverage delivering tube (5) extends to the bottom (8) of the inner beverage container (1) and the upper part of the tube extends outwards (9), —at least one gas pressure inlet opening (10); wherein said self supporting closed beverage container (1) can in an empty stage be folded by hand and beverage can be delivered through the beverage delivering tube (5) due to gas pressure fed into the beverage container (1), the tube (5) being connected with the beverage container (1) in a gas and liquid tight manner, so that beverage cannot leak from the beverage outlet opening (6) of the beverage container (1).
US08833603B1	Apparatus for counting and dispensing pills with a vibrating plate A self-contained pill dispenser is disclosed. A housing is provided and a hopper for containing a plurality of pills is supported by the housing. A feed chute having a transport spiral therein is operatively connected to the hopper for receiving pills therefrom. The transport spiral has an outlet and controllable aperture. A vibrating plate is disposed proximate the outlet. A drive mechanism is connected to the vibrating plate for imparting vibration thereto. The drive mechanism can abruptly stop the vibration of the vibrating plate. A microcontroller is also operatively connected to the hopper, the transport spiral, and the drive mechanism. The system can self-calibrate the mechanism for counting and dispensing pills.
US08833597B1	Straw guide container that holds dry ice A straw guide container that comprises of a housing that defines a straw guide. The straw guide is on one of the exterior sides of the housing. The housing has a first and a second side. The sides are attached to each other using a vertical latching system. The housing is designed to hold at least one solid carbon dioxide pellet. The housing has a stem that is attached to the exterior of the housing. The stem defines a handle. The handle is used to easily position the container within a beverage.
US08833596B2	Mounting bracket for a container In one embodiment there is provided a mounting bracket for use with a container. The container has a wall extending from a bottom to an upper edge and has a mounting flange extending outwardly from a portion of the wall. The mounting flange includes an outer surface with a terminal edge leading to upper and lower edges and a pair of distal sides. The mounting bracket has a support side positionable towards the wall of the container. The support side includes a notched section with a base extending outwardly from the support side and a pair of lateral faces extending outwardly and away from edges of the base. Each lateral face includes a member positioned along a portion thereof and which extends towards the other member in a tapering edge such that the sides of the mounting flange are captured between the support side and the extending members.
US08833592B2	System and method for disposing waste packages such as diapers Systems and methods for facilitating hygienic storage and disposal of waste packages such as used disposable diapers include a housing, a lid, and a bag unit having a bag frame and an attached single use flexible bag. The flexible bag is pleated and larger in cross-section at a lower portion than it is at the connection to the bag frame. The bag frame is releasably mounted to the housing so that it will not rotate. The lower portion of the flexible bag is positioned in a storage chamber of the housing that is shaped so as to align and center the bag. A rotatable member having radially extending flexible fingers is engaged with an intermediate portion of the bag. When the lid is closed, the rotatable member will twist the intermediate portion of the bag, sealing odors in the lower portion of the bag. A parent or caregiver will push the waste package through the resistance of the twisted intermediate portion into the lower portion of the bag, and close the lid to re-seal the twisted portion.
US08833591B2	Ammunition can with safety valve A safety valve is provided for metallic ammunition cans having lids which form an environmental seals when closed, the safety valve automatically vents cook-off gases generated when ammunition or other energetic in the ammunition can reach elevated temperatures. The safety valve is deployed in a hole formed in a wall of the ammunition can. The safety valve employs a vent cover which is soldered by means of a eutectic material either directly to an outer surface of the ammunition can or to an insert extending through the hole in the wall of the ammunition can. The vent cover seals gases in the ammunition can until elevated temperatures cause eutectic solder to melt thus freeing a vent cover and releasing cook-off gases from inside of the ammunition can.
US08833588B2	Container with hands-free latch and linkage activation for access The invention pertains to a foot operated latch and linkage means permitting hands-free access to a waste or recycling container. The latch includes a kick plate which is interlocked with a foot pedal whereby displacement of the kick plate permits release of the foot pedal to move from a latched position to an unlatched position, which pedal movement engages a linkage which opens a user access door in the container.
US08833587B2	Reusable beverage cup A reusable beverage cup comprising a container, a lid having an opening and adapted to fit on the container, and a rotatable member on the lid having a plug that is adapted to locate in the opening when the rotatable member is in a first position on the lid, wherein the plug and opening are similar in shape and sealingly close the opening.
US08833584B2	Closure with utensil retention mechanism The disclosed aspects relate to a dispensing closure that comprises a utensil retention mechanism. The utensil retention mechanism can comprise at least two outward extending tabs that can be located on a lid portion of the dispensing closure. The at least two outward extending tabs can be positioned on the lid portion such that a section of a utensil can be securely engaged and retained by the at least two outward extending tabs. The dispensing closure can comprise a stay open mechanism, in an aspect. In another aspect, the dispensing closure can comprise a sift-resistance feature. In a further aspect, the dispensing closure can comprise a flex-lock.
US08833581B2	Packaging box and stop wall of packaging box The present invention provides a packaging box and stop wall of packaging box. The packaging box includes at least bottom plate, four third box-body splicing elements and four stop walls. The third box-body splicing element is fixed at each corner of the bottom plate and the two ends of stop wall are connected respectively to the two third box-body splicing elements on a side of the bottom plate and fixed between the two third box-body splicing elements to form with the bottom plate a semi-closed packaging box having open top. As such, the present invention can realize the packaging of liquid crystal panels of different sizes and increase the utilization efficiency of the packaging box to protect the liquid crystal panels as well as reducing packaging cost.
US08833579B2	Container base structure responsive to vacuum related forces A plastic container has a base adapted for vacuum pressure absorption. The base portion includes a chime extending from a body portion to a contact ring which defines a surface upon which the container is supported. The base further includes a central portion defined in at least part by a pushup having a generally truncated cone shape in cross section located on a longitudinal axis of the container, and an inversion ring having a generally S shaped geometry in cross section and hinge means formed therein, and circumscribing the pushup. The truncated cone has an overall general diameter that is at most 30% of an overall general diameter of the base and a top surface generally parallel to a support surface.
US08833578B1	Bottle assembly A bottle assembly is disclosed having a container component and a lid assembly. The lid assembly includes an outer lid and an inner lid that are aligned with each other and with a rim section of the bottle assembly in order to be removed. The bottle assembly advantageously provides that no complex threading, ratcheting mechanism or push tabs are required to provide locking functionality while still providing beneficial child-resistant safety features.
US08833576B2	Re-closable container for fluid products, particularly for medical, pharmaceutical and cosmetic products The re-closable container (1) for fluid products, particularly for medical, pharmaceutical and cosmetic products, includes: a hollow body (2) for containing a fluid product, which extends to a neck (4) having at least a dispensing mouth (5) for the product, and closing elements (7) for closing the dispensing mouth (5), which include: a flat-plane gripping member (8), from which a shutter pin (9) of the dispensing mouth (5) extends substantially coplanar, an annular collar (12), which is associated with the flat-plane gripping member (8) along at least a pre-established breaking area (13) and which is rigidly associable with the neck (4), and a resting base (17) suitable for allowing the flat-plane gripping member (8) to rest on a supporting surface (18) in a resting configuration in which the shutter pin (9) remains lifted with respect to the supporting surface (18).
US08833569B2	Lid holder device A lid holder device is disclosed. The lid holder device includes a cupped holding portion that has a bottom collection portion and 4 curved indentures that are positioned to hold and accommodate a pot lid and one or more other kitchen utensils in an upright position to collect and contain condensation and material from the pot lid and the one or more other kitchen utensils and a base is attached and disposed underneath the bottom collection portion of the cupped holding portion to support the cupped holding portion, wherein the cupped holding portion and the base form the lid holder device into one piece.
US08833568B2	Controller stand device and controller stand system To provide a controller stand device capable of stably standing any of two controllers having different thickness. A controller stand device has a pedestal having a support concave formed thereon, the support concave having a size large enough to accept the first controller inserted therein. The controller stand device has a support member to be pressed onto the external surface of the controller inserted in the support concave to thereby stand the controller. The support member is capable of moving between a first support position in which the support member is pressed onto the external surface of the first controller when the first controller is inserted in the support concave and a second position in which the support member is pressed onto the external surface of the second controller when the second controller is inserted in the support concave.
US08833566B2	Optical granular material-sorting apparatus utilizing piezoelectric valve An optical granular material-sorting apparatus includes: a transfer means for transferring objects being sorted; an optical detection means for detecting, at a detection position, objects being sorted as they drop from an end of the transfer means; and a blasting means provided below the optical detection means and designed to blow away objects being sorted through blasting of air based on the result of detection by the optical detection means. The blasting means has a piezoelectric valve which is driven by a driving means to blast air based on the result of detection by the optical detection means. The driving means applies voltage to a piezoelectric element in multiple stages so as to suppress fluctuation in the amount of gas ejected from a gas release channel when the valve opens.
US08833559B2	Single serve beverage container A beverage container holding a beverage includes a cap that can be used to prevent contamination of a beverage between drinks. The cap is sized to fit over the foot of the beverage container for use as a non-slip coaster. The beverage container is shrink wrapped to retain the cap on the top of the beverage container. The shrink wrap includes a pair of vertically disposed perforations which facilitate opening of the beverage container. The shrink wrap also aids in keeping the beverage container sanitary by preventing contaminants from reaching surfaces of the beverage container.
US08833556B2	Suction tip holster insert A cleaning and storage holster or insert for a body cavity aspirator instrument includes a substantially longitudinal body defining an interior for receiving the instrument. The body includes a distal region having a closed end portion and a proximal region having an opening for receiving the instrument. An instrument support is included in the distal region for supporting the instrument in a position above the closed end portion.
US08833555B2	Case having an interchangeable cover An apparatus for protecting an electronic device includes a first protective cover component and a second protective component that may be removably coupled to one another. The second protective cover component includes a hinge component having a flexible hinge portion extending from a peripheral portion of the second protective cover component, wherein the hinge component facilitates coupling of the second protective cover component to the first protective cover component. One of the first protective cover component and the second protective cover component include a region configured to receive the electronic device.
US08833548B2	Contact lens blister package An approach is provided for decreasing infection risk and simplifying operation while wearing a contact lens. A contact lens blister package comprises a body. The body has an opening and an inner space where the contact lens is housed. The contact lens has a convex surface that is corresponded to the body opposite from the opening, so that the contact lens is pushed forward to the opening by a finger and the body is turned inside out and transformed to form a protective sheath that is temporarily worn on the finger as the contact lens is placed onto the wearer's eye.
US08833534B2	Transmission for multi-wheel drive vehicle A transmission comprises a housing, a transmission gear mechanism disposed in the housing, an output shaft for transmitting power outputted from the transmission gear mechanism to a front wheel and a rear wheel in a vehicle, a torque limiter for the front wheel, and another torque limiter for the rear wheel. The output shaft is provided with both of the torque limiters in the housing. The transmission is protected from respective peak loads applied on the front wheel and the rear wheel.
US08833533B2	Ultra slim power supply device and power acquisition device for electric vehicle An ultra slim power supply device for supplying power to an electric vehicle in a contactless manner includes at least one power supply track buried in a road. Each power supply track includes a plate-shaped magnetic core extending along the road, a plate or strip shaped magnetic field generator arranged above the magnetic core through which an alternating current is supplied to generate a magnetic field, a plate or strip shaped insulating body positioned between the magnetic core and the magnetic field generator to isolate them from each other, and a housing for enclosing the magnetic core, the magnetic field generator and the insulating body.
US08833532B2	Shock absorber A shock absorber includes a piston partitioning an inside of a cylinder into a rod-side chamber and a bottom-side chamber, a piston rod having a first end connected to the piston and a second end extending to an outside of the cylinder, a housing provided on the first end side of the piston rod, a free piston slidably inserted into the housing, a rod passage allowing the rod-side chamber to communicate with a pressure chamber within the housing, and damping valves provided in passages allowing the rod-side chamber to communicate with the bottom-side chamber. The free piston is provided with a shutter member that adjusts the opening area of a pressure chamber opening of the rod passage according to a movement of the free piston.
US08833529B2	Device for damping the vibrations in a pad of a disc brake A device (10) for damping the vibrations in a pad (16) of a disc brake suitable for being mounted between at least one pad (16) and at least one piston of a caliper of a disc brake. The device (10) comprises at least one substantially cylindrical damper (26) suitable for being mounted with interference in a cavity (28) made in the piston (22). The damper (26) has an interference surface (30) comprising at least one projection (32) that extends radially and that at least partially wraps around the damper (26) according to a direction having at least one tangential component (T). The damper (26) is suitable for being fixedly connected to the piston (22) through said coupling by interference. Said interference surface (30) of the damper comprising two or more projections (32) defining an undulating axial profile (34) of said interference surface (30).
US08833525B2	Method and system for operating an elevator system responsive to movement of building door A method including: detecting movement of a building door on a floor of a building; based on the detected movement of the building door, defining the floor of the building as a start floor for an elevator trip with an elevator system in the building; and based on the detected movement of the building door, placing a predefined destination call for the elevator trip. The detecting can include determining that a passenger is passing through the building door. A system for performing the method includes: a sensor; an elevator installation in the building; and a control unit coupled to the sensor and to the elevator installation, and configured to detect the door movement using the sensor, define the floor of the building as the start floor, and place a predefined destination call for the elevator trip.
US08833524B2	Monitoring device for safeguarding a driven element A monitoring device for safeguarding a driven element against undesired collisions with an object lying on the movement path of the driven element including at least one transmitting element and a multiplicity of receiving elements, wherein the at least one transmitting element is arranged in a horizontal boundary region of an opening to be monitored, where the opening can be at least partially closed by the driven element, and the multiplicity of receiving elements are arranged in a horizontal, opposite boundary region in a distributed fashion along the opening to be monitored, wherein the at least one transmitting element, together with each of the multiplicity of receiving elements forms a light barrier arrangement, which can be evaluated individually.
US08833523B2	Upright for a lift truck An upright for a lift truck includes a first group of mast sections in a first stagger arrangement where a first mast section of the first group of mast sections is fixed to the lift truck. The upright further includes a second group of mast sections in a second stagger arrangement that is reverse nested inside the first stagger arrangement. Further, the upright includes a drive system for telescopingly extending and retracting the second mast sections relative to the first mast section.
US08833522B2	Method and apparatus for reaching from outside an upper level of a tall structure An embodiment of the invention is directed to a system having a pulley attached to a building. A length of cable is installed around the pulley. The cable is of sufficient length so as to reach, when deployed outside of the building, below the pulley to where emergency personnel gather in an area next to a base of the building (when responding to a disaster situation in the building). A winch around which the cable is to be operatively installed is located in the area next to the base.
US08833519B1	Vehicle mounted telescopic boom structure A vehicle mounted telescopic boom structure including a stowable jib boom and a stowable extension boom pivotally secured thereto as well as a personnel basket which is secured to the outer end of the extension boom. When the boom structure, jib boom, extension boom and personnel basket are in their stowed position, the personnel basket is stowed on the deck of the vehicle beneath the jib boom and boom structure.
US08833513B2	Exhaust muffler provided with tail pipe An exhaust muffler with a tail pipe for suppressing ripples, increasing an engine output and improving fuel consumption efficiency is provided. A chamber is provided in the middle of an exhaust pipe for an internal combustion engine. A tail pipe connected to an end portion of an exhaust opening of the exhaust pipe is provided. A plurality of fins are disposed inside the tail pipe in a spiral shape that is gradually widened toward a discharging direction of the exhaust gas. The chamber includes a cover body and an internal exhaust pipe surrounded by the cover body. The internal exhaust pipe includes a diffusion exhaust pipe having a wide bore and a compression exhaust pipe having a narrow bore. Diffusion pores are drilled on a portion of the side surface of the internal exhaust pipe.
US08833512B2	Firearm sound suppressor baffle A baffle for use in a firearm sound suppressor is provided. The baffle defines a central bore extending from a first face of the baffle to a second face and sized to allow a projectile fired from a firearm to freely pass along a longitudinal axis of the baffle. A plurality of grooves are defined in the first face and a plurality of channels are defined in the second face. Each groove begins adjacent to or near the peripheral wall and extends from the first face towards the second face and the central bore along a groove axis and each channel begins adjacent to or near the peripheral wall and extends s from the second face towards the first face and the central bore along a channel axis. Each groove of the first face can be substantially aligned with a channel of the second face. The baffle can be one of a plurality of baffles in a baffle stack.
US08833510B2	Phononic metamaterials for vibration isolation and focusing of elastic waves A methodology for designing structured metamaterials that can reflect, absorb and focus the propagation of both scalar acoustic and vector elastic waves is described. Three exemplary representative inventions based on the disclosed invention are described, illustrating i) compact ultra-wide broadband isolation, ii) sub-wavelength gaps and negative index propagation utilizing a single material platform, and iii) a fundamentally new method of producing multiple high frequency spectral gaps. Such metamaterial designs possess a wide range of potential applications, ranging from but not limited to, isolating an entity from external mechanical or acoustical vibrations, compact focusing lenses as well as cascaded high frequency filters for wave shaping and nonlinear wave propagation control.
US08833509B2	Two component source seismic acquisition and source de-ghosting Method for marine seismic acquisition using both monopole (91) and dipole (92) source types. Through a combination of source design and operation and/or combination or summing of the data in a processing step, the source ghost is either attenuated or, if desired, enhanced (93). The properties of the two different source types allow them to be adjusted so that the first down going wave from each has either opposite polarity or the same polarity, whereas the source-ghost wave will have, respectively same polarity or opposite polarity. This allows cancellation or enhancement of the source ghost. If the survey also employs two-component sensor acquisition, then the combined data sets may be both sensor de-ghosted and source de-ghosted.
US08833504B2	Steering apparatus An apparatus for use in turning steerable vehicle wheels upon manual rotation of a hand wheel includes a torque sensor connected with a torque sensor and a rear steering gear. The controller selectively controls the rear steering gear in response to an output from the torque sensor upon manual application of at least a predetermined torque to the hand wheel. The controller selectively controls the rear steering gear in response to the output from the torque sensor through a first range of turning movement of the front wheels so that the steering angle of the rear wheels has a first relationship to the steering angle of the front wheels and through a second range of turning movement of the front wheels so that the steering angle of the rear wheels has a second relationship different from the first relationship.
US08833501B2	Tractor A tractor has a chassis (10) which supports an engine (4) towards the front thereof. A deflecting shield (8) is positioned to the rear of the engine to deflect sideways hot air which has passed over the engine, and a tank (15) for the storage of urea based fluid for injection into an exhaust system of the engine is located behind the engine to the rear of the deflecting shield. The chassis to the rear of the engine may have an open-topped section (11a) between the engine (4) and a transmission housing (12), the tank being at least partially housed within the open-topped section of the chassis to shield the tank from the hot air which has passed over the engine and from the heating effects of the sun.
US08833498B2	Shutter control during ambient temperature warm-up across a freezing point A method of controlling operation of an adjustable shutter adapted for varying an amount of airflow to cool a powertrain in a vehicle includes monitoring the ambient temperature. The method also includes sensing an increase in the ambient temperature up to a threshold temperature value. The method additionally includes changing a position of the shutter after a predetermined amount of time has elapsed following the increase in the ambient temperature up to the threshold temperature value. A vehicle using a controller to perform such a method is also provided.
US08833497B2	Travel drive device for dump truck A wheel mounting cylinder (18) is rotatably provided on an outer peripheral side of an axle housing (12) through wheel support bearings (20, 21). A wet brake (45) is provided between the axle housing (12) and the wheel mounting cylinder (18) for applying a braking force to rotation of the wheel mounting cylinder (18). A seal mechanism (55) is provided between the wet brake (45) and the wheel support bearing (20) for keeping a cooling liquid (50) of the wet brake (45) in a sealed state to lubricant oil (100) in the wheel mounting cylinder (18). A foreign-object trapping portion (58, 62) is provided between the wheel support bearing (20) and the seal mechanism (55) for trapping foreign objects flowing from the seal mechanism (55) toward the wheel support bearing (20).
US08833493B2	Mechanical works sampling system for the operation of articulated extensions in vehicular applications A mechanical work sampling system (10) is for the operation of extensions articulated in vehicular applications. The system is susceptible of being applied on a tracked vehicle (30) and includes at least a supporting arm (40) and a secondary track (22; 23) associated to the supporting arm. The supporting arm (40) is configurable in rotation configuration within which it rotates with respect to a first end (41) through a sampling of work from the main propulsor of the tracked vehicle (30).
US08833492B2	Cutters for fixed cutter bits A PDC cutter includes a body formed from a substrate material, an ultrahard layer disposed on the body, and a concave cutting face perpendicular to an axis of the body. A PDC cutter includes a body formed from a substrate material, an ultrahard layer disposed on the body, and a non-planar cutting face perpendicular to an axis of the body, the cutting face including a circumferential concave portion, and an inner protrusion portion.
US08833488B2	Automatic standpipe pressure control in drilling A method of controlling standpipe pressure in a drilling operation can include comparing a measured standpipe pressure to a desired standpipe pressure, and automatically adjusting a choke in response to the comparing, thereby reducing a difference between the measured standpipe pressure and the desired standpipe pressure. A standpipe pressure control system for use in a drilling operation can include a controller which outputs an annulus pressure setpoint based on a comparison of a measured standpipe pressure to a desired standpipe pressure, and a choke which is automatically adjusted in response to the annulus pressure setpoint. A well system can include a standpipe line connected to a drill string in a wellbore, a sensor which measures pressure in the standpipe line, and a controller which outputs an annulus pressure setpoint based at least in part on a difference between the measured pressure and a desired standpipe pressure.
US08833486B2	Elastic connection between housing parts of motor-driven power tools An elastic connection is established between housing parts of a power-driven machine tool by an elastic connecting element which is attached in form-locking fashion to at least one of the housing parts to be connected, in such a way that the connecting element has a land penetrating a breach of the housing part, and this land connects covering parts of the connecting element that are located in coincidence with the breach.
US08833485B2	Battery-powered portable tools A battery-powered portable tool, such as a chainsaw, hedge trimmer or handheld drill, comprising: a housing (1), a driven element (2) supported by the housing (1), an electric motor (6) coupled to the driven element (2) so as to drive the driven element (2), a battery (5) electrically coupled to the motor (6) so as to supply electric current to the motor (6) and a control circuit (8) arranged to control the supply of electric current to the motor (6) from the battery (5), in which the control circuit (8) comprises a main switch (8) operable by a user and an auxiliary switch (10, 11) also operable by a user; in which the control circuit (8) has: an active state in which operation of the main switch (8) by the user allows electric current to flow to the motor (6) so as to cause the driven element (2) to be driven; and an inactive state in which operation of the main switch (8) does not allow electric current to flow to the motor (6) and so the motor (6) does not drive the driven element (2); in which operation of the auxiliary switch (10, 11) causes the control circuit (8) to change between the active and inactive states; and in which the control circuit is further provided with an indicator (30) arranged to provide an indication to a user whether the control circuit (8) is in the active or inactive mode. The indication may be by the light emitting devices (31, 32) or a speaker (33); user-uploadable sounds may be stored in a memory (34) of the tool to enable a user to customise the sound of their tool.
US08833478B2	Fire stop system A fire stop system with a pass through device is installed in a structural opening. The fire stop system includes a split pipe, a foam wall gasket and an annulus plate. The split pipe includes a first end and a second end. The first end and the second end have an intumescent material installed thereon to seal the split pipe when the split pipe is exposed to elevated temperatures. The foam wall gasket is installed around the split pipe adjacent the structural opening. The foam wall gasket forms a contour to the structural opening blocking air flow between the split pipe and the opening. The annulus plate covers the foam wall gasket and is installed around the split pipe at the structural opening.
US08833476B2	Method and apparatus for extinguishing fires A unique method and apparatus for suppressing the spread of and extinguishing fires in confined areas such as underground tunnels and conduits. The new method includes mixing a super absorbent polymer supplied from a backpack, in one embodiment, with water to form a hydrated super absorbent polymer and applying this admixture to an electrical fire. The super absorbent polymer can be contained in a backpack. The admixture has the ability to cling to the object(s) to which it has been applied and either cool down the object(s) after it is on fire, or block the fire from reaching the object. The super absorbent polymer and water admixture also encapsulates the noxious and toxic gases and prevents the release of these toxic gases into the atmosphere. The super absorbent polymer and water admixture retains the ash, particulates, and other byproducts of the electrical fire to enable a rapid and thorough cleanup.
US08833473B2	Sealing assembly A downhole sealing assembly (10) comprises a sleeve (12) adapted to be mounted on a body, the sleeve (12) including a swellable material and defining a sealing arrangement comprising inner and outer seals (18, 20). Swelling of the material radially extends the seals (18, 20).
US08833467B2	Plunger lift systems and methods The present invention discloses apparatuses, systems, and methods for operating a gas well. Some embodiments include a plunger apparatus configured to fall through a continuous water phase (including water slugs) in a gas producing well by overcoming pressure and drag forces from the water by having a sufficient mass, hydrodynamic profile, and sufficiently large area for passage of the continuous water. In one embodiment, a plunger body and plug mechanism are provided, wherein the plug mechanism has open and closed positions, which may be automatically changed or controlled by a surface or other control system, and wherein the plunger body and plug may be a physically integrated one-piece system, or an interoperable two piece system.
US08833462B2	Method and system for installing subsea well trees The disclosure provides a method and system of installing subsea well trees, comprising: creating a glory hole having a depth below a seabed at a well location of a hydrocarbon reservoir; moving a floating offshore platform coupled with a foundation, the platform having a topsides and a caisson with downwardly extending walls defining an inner volume between the walls, the foundation coupled to the caisson walls, and the caisson walls having adjustable buoyancy; lowering the offshore platform with the foundation into the glory hole; drilling from the topsides into the hydrocarbon reservoir below the foundation to create a well; installing a well tree on the well, the well tree being disposed in the glory hole below the height of the seabed; coupling the well tree to a flow line; releasing the offshore platform from the foundation; and reusing the offshore platform to install other foundations at other predetermined well locations.
US08833456B1	Seawater transportation for utilization in hydrocarbon-related processes including pipeline transportation Systems and methods for transporting seawater from a seawater source to an inland site for utilization as a drilling and/or fracturing fluid are disclosed. In an aspect, systems and methods are disclosed wherein seawater is extracted from an ocean at a coastal location and transported to an inland drilling and hydraulic fracturing site via a pipeline, thereby providing a consistent, large volume supply of seawater for use in drilling and/or hydraulic fracturing operations. Such systems and methods may eliminate usage of locally-sourced fresh water, eliminating the unsustainable burden that drilling and hydraulic fracturing places on local water tables.
US08833453B2	Electrodes for electrical current flow heating of subsurface formations with tapered copper thickness A first conductor is positioned in the substantially horizontal or inclined portion of a first wellbore. The first conductor includes electrically conductive material. A portion of the first conductor positioned in the first wellbore includes copper coupled to the electrically conductive material. The copper tapers from a larger thickness at a first end of the portion to a smaller thickness at a second end of the portion. A power supply coupled to the first conductor electrically excites the electrically conductive materials of the first conductor such that current flows between the electrically conductive materials in the first conductor, through at least a portion of the formation, to a second conductor located in the hydrocarbon containing layer in the formation, and the current resistively heats at least a portion of the formation between the two conductors.
US08833448B2	Fluid system component with sacrificial element A system for pressure testing the joints and walls of a production pipe includes a fluid system component that can be disposed at a first end of the production pipe so as to seal off the first end of the production pipe. The fluid system component prevents the flow of fluid out of the first end of the production pipe when the pressure within the production pipe is below a predetermined level. The fluid system component includes a sacrificial element that is adapted for preferential failure when the pressure within the production pipe exceeds the predetermined level. Upon failure of the sacrificial element, fluid is able to flow out of the production pipe through the fluid system component. The system may also include a test plug that prevents the activation of a drain component in the production pipe during the pressure testing of the production pipe.
US08833445B2	Systems and methods for gravel packing wells Assemblies, systems, and methods to facilitate gravel packing of a wellbore having a flow restricting device are described. The assemblies, systems, and methods can include a flow restricting device and an alternative-path gravel packing system to provide a gravel pack about the flow restricting device. The assemblies, systems, and methods can allow uniform and complete annular sand control pack placement together with reduced flow of unwanted fluids.
US08833444B2	System, apparatus and method for abrasive jet fluid cutting A system, apparatus and method for abrasive jet fluid cutting is provided wherein an abrasive jet fluid cutting assembly comprises a hose for receiving a coherent abrasive jet-fluid containing a solid abrasive; a helix/spring attached inside the high-pressure hose; and a jet-nozzle connected to the hose. Wherein the coherent abrasive laden jet-fluid is pumped under high pressure through the high-pressure hose and across the helix. As the jet-fluid traverses the helix, the jet-fluid rotates at a high rate creating a vortex. The disclosed subject matter further includes a system and method for using the abrasive jet fluid cutting nozzle assembly.
US08833443B2	Retrievable swellable packer A well tool can include a swellable material, and a degradable material which supports the swellable material, but which degrades in response to contact with a selected fluid in a well. A packer for use in a subterranean well can include a swellable material, and a degradable material which supports the swellable material. A method of unsetting a packer in a subterranean well can include the steps of, after the packer has been set in the well, exposing a degradable material of the packer to a selected fluid, thereby degrading the degradable material, and a seal element of the packer being unsupported by the degradable material in response to the exposing step.
US08833442B2	Wedge deflecting device for sidetracking A wedge deflecting device useful in drilling and workover operations on oil and gas wells. The device includes a cutting tool connected to the upper portion of the wedge by means of the shear element provided with an external circular groove, located below the wedge deflecting surface, and with a transverse slot in its upper part, the cutting tool having a longitudinal cylinder and a downwards spring-biased piston, inserted into the cylinder; above lower seal elements and below the spring the piston has a wedge nose which corresponds to a transverse slot of the shear element. Below the piston, the cylinder communicates with the drill string and the supply tube, and above-the-piston space communicates with the borehole interior. The cutting tool is provided with a radial inward spring-biased locking element, arranged to be able to fix the piston in its top position, where the piston is located above the shear element.
US08833439B2	Galvanically isolated exit joint for well junction A well system for forming a window in a casing string positioned in a wellbore. The system includes first and second steel casing joints (462, 464) interconnectable within the casing string. An aluminum exit joint (460) is positioned between the first and second steel casing joints (462, 464). The aluminum exit joint (460) has a first interconnection with the first steel casing joint (462) and a second interconnection with the second steel casing joint (464). The aluminum exit joint (460) is operable to have the window formed therethrough. A first sleeve (470) is positioned within the first interconnection to provide galvanic isolation between the aluminum exit joint (460) and the first steel casing joint (462). A second sleeve (472) is positioned within the second interconnection to provide galvanic isolation between the aluminum exit joint (460) and the second steel casing joint (464).
US08833435B2	Microscale cooling apparatus and method A method and system for providing a heat sink assembly are described. The assembly includes a two-phase heat sink, a condenser, and a pump. The two-phase heat sink may include flow micro-channels that accommodate the flow of boiling coolant and cross-connect channel(s) that at least partially equilibrate a pressure field for the boiling coolant. The condenser receives coolant from the heat sink and removes heat. The pump drives coolant through the assembly. In one aspect, the assembly is a closed system for the coolant. In another aspect, the condenser includes first and second plates and a heat exchange surface there between. Coolant flows from the heat sink and through the plates. The gaseous coolant passes the heat exchange surface. In one aspect the gaseous coolant flows opposite to the direction coolant flows. In one aspect, at least one of the plates includes dummy channel(s) for insulating part of the plate(s).
US08833434B2	Pt nanotubes A method for making hollow metal tubes includes a step combining a polyphenylene sulfide-containing resin with a water soluble carrier resin to form a resinous mixture. The resinous mixture is then extruded to form an extruded resinous mixture. The extruded resinous mixture includes polyphenylene sulfide-containing fibers within the carrier resin. The extruded resinous mixture is contacted (i.e., washed) with water to separate the polyphenylene sulfide-containing fibers from the carrier resin. The polyphenylene sulfide-containing fibers are then coated with a metal layer. The hollow metal tubes are then formed by removing the polyphenylene sulfide-containing fibers.
US08833433B2	Foundry mold insulating coating Tubular metal articles such as pipe and cylinder liners are produced by centrifugal casting on a permanent metal mold coated by refractory glass on the active surface. A coating suspension mix is evenly distributed onto the mold to form a uniform layer of insulation on the surface of the mold. The material for the coating includes essentially a waterborne suspension mix of glass particles. The suspension is given time to dry on the surface of the mold. The glass particles dispersed in the suspension are both non-crystalline and nonporous. The glass particles in the suspension and forming the coating are not dissolved and do not chemically attract the polar water molecule or cause it to bond to the surface of glass in the suspension or to the mold active surface. Articles cast as such are smooth surfaced and require only limited machining. The coating provides thermal protection to the mold, but more importantly, the water in the suspension vaporizes quickly on a warm mold because the water is not attracted or bonded to the refractory glass particles.
US08833432B2	Injection compression molding of amorphous alloys Various embodiments provide methods and apparatus for forming bulk metallic glass (BMG) articles using a mold having a stationary mold part and a movable mold part paired to form a mold cavity. A molten material can be injected to fill the mold cavity. The molten material can then be cooled into a BMG article at a desired cooling rate. While injecting and/or cooling the molten material, the movement of the movable mold part can be controlled, such that a thermal contact between the molten material and the mold can be maintained. BMG articles can be formed without forming an underfilled part. Additional structural features can be imparted in the BMG article during formation. At least a portion of the formed BMG article can have an aspect ratio (first dimension/second dimension) of at least 10 or less than 0.1.
US08833431B2	Aluminum alloy material and method of manufacturing aluminum alloy backboard The present invention discloses an aluminum alloy material, which is made of raw material of aluminum alloy. The raw material of aluminum alloy consists of the following constituents by percentage of weight: graphene: 0.1%˜1%, carbon nano tube: 1%˜5%, the rest being Al. The aluminum alloy material of the present invention has a good performance of heat dissipation, the thermal conductivity is higher than 200 W/m. Meanwhile, the present invention further provides a method of manufacturing aluminum alloy backboard, in which method, the raw material of aluminum alloy is heated and melted in a heating furnace, afterwards, the raw material of aluminum alloy after melting is formed into an aluminum alloy backboard by die-casting, in this way, the utilization rate of material is increased and the manufacturing cost of the backboard is reduced.
US08833429B2	Sunshade device Included are a windup device, a screen mounted to the windup device so as to be drawn therefrom and housed therein, a stay mounted to a drawing-side edge of the screen, and a pair of arms each including a distal end portion connected to the stay so as to rotate relative thereto and a proximal end portion supported by the windup device so as to rotate relative thereto about a rotation axis, the pair of arms being configured to change a position between a folded position and an extended position through a rotary movement about the rotation axis. The pair of arms are configured such that in the extended position, one-end-side portion of a pivot base extends toward a vertical frame of a window from the rotation axis and the other-end-side portion of the pivot base and an arm part extend along the vertical frame in a manner of being bent from the distal end portion of the one-end-side portion of the pivot base, and that the arm part and the pivot base are connected so as to rotate relative thereto.

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