最新美国发明专利第2014-09-30期 - 专利汇|PatentHub专利检索|专利查询网|发明专利查询分析

Document	Document Title
US08845973B2	Particle filter with hydrolysis coating, device and motor vehicle A particle filter includes channels that are formed by porous walls and run between a first end face and a second end face of the particle filter. The first end face has a hydrolysis coating outside the channels. A device includes at least one exhaust gas line through which an exhaust gas can flow in a flow direction, a nozzle for introducing a reducing agent containing or forming ammonia, and the aforementioned particle filter. The first end face of the particle filter is oriented towards the nozzle. A motor vehicle having the particle filter or the device, is also provided.
US08845961B2	Devices and articles comprising up-converting sterilizing compositions and methods for using the same There is disclosed various devices and articles comprising phosphors for converting electromagnetic energy to radiation having a shorter wavelength, the composition comprising at least one phosphor capable of converting an initial electromagnetic radiation having a wavelength (A) to an electromagnetic radiation having a shorter wavelength (B) comprising UV radiation or radiation of a shorter wavelength. There is also a method of sterilizing such devices and articles by exposing it to UV radiation or radiation of a shorter wavelength for a time sufficient to deactivate or kill at least one microorganism and/or for a time sufficient to inhibit abnormal cell growth within the body, when the composition is in an implantable medical device.
US08845950B2	Method for manufacturing polyimide-based carbon nanofiber electrode A method to manufacture a carbon fiber electrode comprises synthesizing polyamic acid (PAA) as a polyimide (PI) precursor from pryomellitic dian hydride (PMDA) and oxydianiline (ODA) as monomers and triethylamine (TEA) as a catalyst, adding dimethylformamide (DMF) to the polyamic acid (PAA) solution to prepare a spinning solution and subjecting the spinning solution to electrostatic spinning at a high voltage to obtain a PAA nanofiber paper, converting the PAA nanofiber paper into a polyimide (PI) nanofiber paper by heating, and converting the polyimide (PI) nanofiber paper into a carbon nanofiber (CNF) paper by heating under an Ar atmosphere. Also, the method to manufacture a polyimide carbon nanofiber electrode and/or a carbon nanotube composite electrode may utilize carbon nanofibers having diameters that are lessened by optimizing electrostatic spinning in order to improve spinnability.
US08845944B2	Method of manufacturing midsole for article of footwear A method of forming includes the steps of: placing a first mold member and a second mold member in contact with one another; injecting a first material into a first recess in the first mold member to form a first portion of a midsole while the first mold member is maintained at a temperature below an ambient temperature; removing the first portion of the midsole from the first recess; positioning the first portion of the midsole in the second recess in the third mold member of the second mold assembly; placing a second material into the second recess in contact with the first portion of the midsole; placing the third mold member and the fourth mold member in contact with one another; and subjecting the second material and the first portion in the second mold assembly to heat and pressure to form a midsole.
US08845942B2	Compact production apparatus and method for producing compact A compact production apparatus includes a main body having at least one molding die in which a cavity is formed, a first flow passage member for supplying powder into the cavity, an upper compaction member having an upper punch surface, a lower compaction member having a lower punch surface which is allowed to compress the powder in the cavity in cooperation with the upper punch surface to thereby obtain a compact of the powder, and a second flow passage member from which the compact separated from the cavity is to be discharged. Further, at least 80% or more of a total surface area of an upper surface of the main body, an inner circumferential surface defining the cavity, an inner circumferential surface of the first flow passage member, an inner circumferential surface of the second flow passage member, the upper punch surface of the upper compaction member and the lower punch surface of the lower compaction member is made of a nonmetallic material.
US08845941B2	Apparatus for growing carbon nanotube forests, and generating nanotube structures therefrom, and method The present invention provides apparatus and methods for growing fullerene nanotube forests, and forming nanotube films, threads and composite structures therefrom. In some embodiments, an interior-flow substrate includes a porous surface and one or more interior passages that provide reactant gas to an interior portion of a densely packed nanotube forest as it is growing. In some embodiments, a continuous-growth furnace is provided that includes an access port for removing nanotube forests without cooling the furnace substantially. In other embodiments, a nanotube film can be pulled from the nanotube forest without removing the forest from the furnace. A nanotube film loom is described. An apparatus for building layers of nanotube films on a continuous web is described.
US08845940B2	Carbon dioxide treatment of concrete upstream from product mold Fresh concrete is treated with carbon dioxide prior to delivery to a product mold for forming concrete products. Carbon dioxide gas is directed through a manifold, which may be coupled to a feedbox or a hopper, upstream from the product mold. Treating the fresh concrete with the carbon dioxide gas while it is in a loose state prior to placement in the product mold may generally promote uniform and enhanced carbon dioxide uptake.
US08845934B2	Compatibilized biopolyamide-poly(arylene ether) thermoplastic resin Disclosed herein are compatibilized polyamide-poly(arylene ether) thermoplastic resin compositions, comprising: (a) about 10 to about 50 weight percent of a poly(arylene ether); (b) about 5 percent to about 20 percent of a hydrogenated block copolymer of an alkenyl aromatic compound and a conjugated diene and a copolymer of ethylene; (c) about 30 to about 60 percent of a biopolyamide; and wherein all weight percents are based on the total weight of the composition; and wherein the biomass carbon content of the resin composition is at least 13 percent as measured by ASTM D6866. Also disclosed are methods for making such resins and articles derived therefrom.
US08845933B2	Electrically conductive polymer compositions and films made therefrom The present invention relates to electrically conductive polymer compositions, and their use in electronic devices. The compositions are an aqueous dispersion including: (i) at least one electrically conductive polymer doped with a non-fluorinated polymeric acid; (ii) at least one highly-fluorinated acid polymer; (iii) at least one water-compatible high-boiling organic solvent; and (iv) electrically insulative inorganic oxide nanoparticles.
US08845929B2	Ultraviolet light emitting material The present invention provides a zinc oxide-based ultraviolet light emitting material showing intense emission in the ultraviolet region. The present invention is an ultraviolet light emitting material containing: zinc and oxygen as main components; at least one element selected from the group consisting of aluminum, gallium, and indium, as a first sub-component; and phosphorus as a second sub-component. This material has n-type conductivity.
US08845927B2	Functionalized nanoparticles and method A nanoparticle has a semiconductor nanocrystal capable of emitting light. The nanoparticle further includes a ligand attached to a surface of the coating. The ligand is represented by the formula: X-Sp-Z, wherein X represents, e.g., a primary amine group, a secondary amine group, a urea, a thiourea, an imidizole group, an amide group, a phosphonic or arsonic acid group, a phosphinic or arsinic acid group, a phosphate or arsenate group, a phosphine or arsine oxide group; Sp represents a spacer group, such as a group capable of allowing a transfer of charge or an insulating group; and Z represents: (i) reactive group capable of communicating specific chemical properties to the nanocrystal as well as provide specific chemical reactivity to the surface of the nanocrystal, and/or (ii) a group that is cyclic, halogenated, or polar a-protic.
US08845923B2	Corrosion-inhibiting deicers derived from biomass In some variations, the invention provides a deicer composition comprising alkali acetate, a solvent (such as water) for the alkali acetate, and a corrosion inhibitor comprising lignin or a lignin derivative. The acetate and the lignin or lignin derivative are preferably each derived from the same biomass feedstock. In some embodiments, the alkali is selected from the group consisting of potassium, sodium, magnesium, calcium, and combinations thereof. In some embodiments, the alkali acetate is present in a concentration from about 30 wt % to about 99 wt %. Deicer products may be a crystallized or dried form of the deicer composition.
US08845909B2	Process of fabricating heat dissipation substrate A process of fabricating a heat dissipation substrate is provided. A metal substrate having an upper surface, a lower surface, first recesses located on the upper surface and second recesses located on the lower surface is provided. The metal substrate is divided into carrier units and connecting units connecting the carrier units. A first and a second insulating materials are respectively filled into the first and the recesses. A first conductive layer is formed on the upper surface and the first insulating material. A second conductive layer is formed on the lower surface and the second insulating material. The first and the second conductive layers are patterned to form a first and a second patterned conductive layers. The first and the second insulating materials are taken as an etching mask to etch the connecting units of the metal substrate so as to form a plurality of individual heat dissipation substrates.
US08845907B2	Structure and method to fabricate tooling for bumping thin flex circuits A structure and method for a post plate of a die set that can be used to emboss a plurality of contact pads of a flexible printed circuit during the formation of a printer printhead. In one embodiment, a plurality of post plate posts can be formed, where each post plate post has a flat upper surface, generally straight sides, and a sharp corner where the flat upper surface and the generally straight sides intersect. Each post can be polished using, for example, a pad and an abrasive polishing compound or an electrochemical polishing process, to round the sharp corners to form a post having a rounded contour. In another embodiment, a plurality of post plate posts each having a rounded contour can be formed using a molding process.
US08845901B2	Ballasted anaerobic method for treating wastewater A ballasted anaerobic system for treating wastewater including at least one anaerobic treatment reactor. A weighting agent impregnation subsystem is configured to mix weighting agent with the biological flocs to form weighted biological flocs to create a weighted anaerobic sludge blanket in the at least one anaerobic treatment reactor. A weighting agent recovery subsystem is configured to recover the weighting agent from excess sludge and reintroduce the weighting agent to the weighting agent impregnation subsystem.
US08845900B2	Apparatus and methods for control of waste treatment processes Waste-treatment processes are enhanced through generation and introduction of specific biological populations customized to perform or favor specific tasks either during the main process, for the formation or precipitation of certain biological nutrients, or to accomplish solids formation reduction in a post-treatment process. These bacteria may be grown from specialized mixes of activated sludge and waste influent by exposing these materials to controlled environments (e.g., in an off-line treatment area). They may then be returned to the main process to perform certain tasks such as converting particulate cBOD into soluble cBOD for utilization, to reduce high solids yield organisms by supplementing the population characteristics with low yield organism characteristics, to provide biological nutrients or oxygenation assistance, to improve nitrification/denitrification efficiency, or to disfavor filamentous biology such as Norcardia sp.
US08845899B2	Filter element and methods of manufacturing and using same A coreless and spirally wound non-woven filter element is provided. The filter element includes at least one band of base media having a selected porosity and an interlay having a different porosity within at least one band of base media. The presence of the interlay in the filter element can create additional surface area within the contiguous construction of a filter element for filtration. This interlay can also create the ability to change direction of flow and to increase the deposition of specifically sized contaminants.
US08845892B2	Device, method and apparatus for performing separations Embodiments of the present invention are directed to devices, methods and apparatus for performing separations in which particulates are separated or removed from a fluid stream flowing to a column. In one embodiment directed to a device, the invention includes a body (13) having a first surface (17) and a second surface (19) and at least one wall (23). At least one of the first surface (17) and second surface (19) is for receiving in sealing engagement a first conduit means. The remaining first surface (17) or second surface (19) is for engaging a column or a second conduit (19). The at least one wall (23) extends between the first surface (17) and the second surface (19). The body (13) has at least one opening (25) extending from the first surface (17) to the second surface (19) defining a chamber for receiving a solid phase separation media assembly (15). The device further includes a solid phase separation media assembly (15) within the chamber formed in the opening of the body between the first surface (17) and the second surface (19). The solid phase separation media assembly (15) is for removing particulates and undesired materials of a fluid flowing through the chamber. The body is constructed and arranged to fit in a body fitting to be attached to a column or which body fitting is part of an assembly for communicating with an column or a detector.
US08845891B2	Aquarium filter media including nanofibers A filtration device for an aquarium comprising a filtering chamber for receiving water and a filter medium therein wherein said filter medium comprises fibers having a diameter from 0.1 nm to 3000 nm and an aspect ratio of length to diameter of 5:1 to 10,000 to 1 wherein said fibers provide for colonization of nitrosomonas bacterium and/or nitrobacteria.
US08845890B2	Hydraulic reservoir with self-bypassing filter A self-bypassing filter system for a fluid reservoir. The system includes a filter disposed within the reservoir, positioned to intercept the fluid flow proceeding out of the reservoir. A bypass fluid flow path extending from upstream to downstream of the filter, without passing through the filter. In addition, the system includes a membrane, positioned to completely block the bypass fluid flow path upstream of the filter, the membrane being formed of a material dissolvable in the fluid.
US08845888B2	Water treatment system According to one embodiment, a water treatment system includes: a membrane separation device and a water softening device including a valve unit switching between a softening process in which soft water is obtained by passing raw water through a cation exchange resin bed downward and a regeneration process in which a whole of the cation exchange resin bed is regenerated by generating an opposite flow of a regenerant by supplying the regenerant from both sides of a top portion and a bottom portion of the cation exchange resin bed and collecting a liquid at an intermediate portion of the cation exchange resin bed, and a regenerant supply supplying the regenerant in a volume which gives a regeneration level of 1 to 6 eq/L-R, to a hardness leakage prevention region set in a predetermined depth on the bottom portion of the cation exchange resin bed, in the regeneration process.
US08845887B2	Water purifier A water purifier determining an appropriate discarded water quantity includes: a purified water supply; an integrated flow quantity measuring part; and a control and calculation part. The control and calculation part is configured to determine whether purified water is unsuitable for use based upon the integrated flow quantity measured for a period of time from when the supply is started. A value of water quantity Qti at the Nth time is determined based on a length of time from when the purified water supply stops the supply at the (N−1)th time up to when the purified water supply starts the supply at the the Nth time; and a difference between a quantity of water measured for a period of time from when the supply at the (N−1)th time is started to when the supply at the (N−1)th time is stopped and a value of Qti at the (N−1)th time.
US08845886B2	Functionalized filters for heavy oil upgrading This invention relates to a process for separating a hydrocarbon stream via a filtration process to produce an upgraded permeate stream with decreased Conradson Carbon Residue (“CCR”) content. The invention involves the modification of a porous ceramic filter by functionalizing the surface of the ceramic filter with an multi-ring aromatic-diimide polymer. Preferably, the multi-ring aromatic-diimide polymer is comprised of a multi-ring aromatic monomer component. The functionalized filters of the present invention can be used in a process to selectively separate components of a hydrocarbon stream to produce an improved permeate (or “filtrate”) product stream with a lower CCR content and improved processing capabilities. The functionalized filters of the present invention are particularly beneficial in filtration processes for upgrading heavy hydrocarbon feedstreams, such as whole crudes, topped crudes, synthetic crude blends, shale oils, oils derived from bitumens, oils derived from tar sands, atmospheric resids, vacuum resids, or other heavy hydrocarbon streams.
US08845881B2	Process for middle distillae production form fischer-tropsch waxes using a modified-zeolite-based catalyst The invention relates to a process for the production of middle distillates from a paraffinic feedstock that is produced by Fischer-Tropsch synthesis, implementing a hydrocracking/hydroisomerization catalyst that comprises at least one hydro-dehydrogenating metal that is selected from the group that is formed by the metals of group VIB and group VIII of the periodic table and a substrate that comprises at least one zeolite that has at least one series of channels of which the opening is defined by a ring with 12 oxygen atoms modified by a) a stage for introducing at least one alkaline cation that belongs to group IA or IIA of the periodic table, b) a stage for treatment of said zeolite in the presence of at least one molecular compound that contains at least one silicon atom, c) at least one stage for partial exchange of said alkaline cations by NH4+ cations such that the remaining content of alkaline cations in the modified zeolite at the end of stage c) is such that the alkaline cation/aluminum molar ratio is between 0.2:1 and 0.01:1, and d) at least one heat treatment stage.
US08845880B2	Nanopore-based single DNA molecule characterization, identification and isolation using speed bumps The present invention relates to a method of using nanopores to obtain sequence information of sample DNAs in ss test DNAs. The method comprises using speed bumps to stall the ss test DNAs in the nanopores at random positions of the ss test DNAs to obtain sequence information of each and every nucleotides of the sample DNAs, and to construct the whole sequences of the sample DNAs. The present invention also relates to identification and/or isolation of test DNAs having desired sequence(s) using nanopore detectors facilitated by speed bump.
US08845863B2	Alkylene oxide purification processes and systems Processes and systems for purifying ethylene oxide, including introducing a feed stream including ethylene oxide to a heat exchanger to heat the feed stream, feeding the heated feed stream to a distillation apparatus base below a first stage, removing from the distillation apparatus an impurity fraction as a top exit stream from the distillation apparatus located at a top take-off on the distillation apparatus, removing from the distillation apparatus an ethylene oxide stream of 99.7 weight percent purity, based on the total weight of the ethylene oxide stream, from the distillation apparatus, and removing from the distillation apparatus an aldehyde enriched fraction as a bottom stream from the distillation apparatus, where the aldehyde enriched fraction is fed directly to a glycol reactor.
US08845856B2	Edge ring assembly for plasma etching chambers An edge ring assembly used in a plasma etching chamber includes a dielectric coupling ring and a conductive edge ring. In one embodiment, the dielectric coupling ring has an annular projection extending axially upward from its inner periphery. The dielectric coupling ring is adapted to surround a substrate support in a plasma etching chamber. The conductive edge ring is adapted to surround the annular projection of the dielectric coupling ring. A substrate supported on the substrate support overhangs the substrate support and overlies the annular projection of the dielectric coupling ring and a portion of the conductive edge ring. In another embodiment, the dielectric coupling ring has a rectangular cross section. The dielectric coupling ring and the conductive edge ring are adapted to surround a substrate support in a plasma etching chamber. A substrate supported on the substrate support overhangs the substrate support and overlies a portion of the conductive edge ring.
US08845853B2	Substrate processing apparatus and substrate processing method A substrate processing apparatus that can improve the uniformity of plasma processing carried out on a wafer. The wafer is housed in a chamber of the substrate processing apparatus and subjected to plasma processing using plasma produced in the processing chamber. A temperature control mechanism jets a high-temperature gas toward at least part of an annular focus ring facing the plasma.
US08845852B2	Polishing pad and method of producing semiconductor device A polishing pad enabling a highly precise optical endpoint sensing during the polishing process and thus having excellent polishing characteristics (such as surface uniformity and in-plane uniformity) is disclosed. A polishing pad enabling to obtain the polishing profile of a large area of a wafer is also disclosed. A polishing pad of a first invention comprises a light-transmitting region having a transmittance of not less than 50% over the wavelength range of 400 to 700 nm. A polishing pad of a second invention comprises a light-transmitting region having a thickness of 0.5 to 4 mm and a transmittance of not less than 80% over the wavelength range of 600 to 700 nm. A polishing pad of a third invention comprises a light-transmitting region arranged between the central portion and the peripheral portion of the polishing pad and having a length (D) in the diametrical direction which is three times or more longer than the length (L) in the circumferential direction.
US08845851B2	Protein adhesive formulations with amine-epichlorohydrin and isocyanate additives Disclosed is an adhesive composition comprising a protein component, an AE adduct component and an isocyanate component. Also disclosed is a composite and a method of making a composite comprising a substrate and the adhesive composition of the present invention.
US08845850B2	Anaerobic adhesive and sealant compositions in film form, film spool assemblies containing such compositions in film form and preapplied versions thereof on matable parts Anaerobic adhesive and sealant compositions in film form, film spool assemblies containing such compositions in film form and preapplied versions thereof on matable parts are provided.
US08845849B2	Anisotropic conductive adhesive An anisotropic conductive adhesive for anisotropic conductive connection of an electronic component to a wiring board under no pressure or a low pressure is prepared by dispersing conductive particles in a binder resin composition. A metal flake powder having a major axis of 10 to 40 μm, a thickness of 0.5 to 2 μm, and an aspect ratio of 5 to 50, is used as the conductive particles, the minor axis of the metal flake power being, in a length, 10 to 50% of the major axis. The amount of the conductive particles contained in the anisotropic conductive adhesive is 5 to 35 mass %.
US08845848B2	Magnesium alloy member There is provided a magnesium alloy member that includes an aluminum-containing magnesium alloy material. The magnesium alloy material has a modified layer formed at a surface thereof in such a manner that at least a surface of the modified layer has a higher aluminum content than that of any unmodified base portion of the magnesium alloy material.
US08845845B1	Carbon fiber tubular pole and method of manufacture A carbon fiber tubular pole and method of construction thereof. The pole includes a left in place lightweight mandrel, preferably formed of tubular polyvinylchloride or cardboard, which substantially reduces cost of manufacture. Moreover, an outer tubular glass fiber sleeve over a tubular carbon fiber sleeve resin saturated through and through maintains the aesthetic appearance of the black carbon fiber while substantially strengthening the end product. A second outer layer of a mixture of resin and colloidal silica over the cured resin layer adds shine and increases smoothness.
US08845839B2	Lamination apparatus and lamination method A lamination, apparatus laminates sheet members including at least one of an electrode and a separator. The lamination apparatus includes a table on which the sheet members are laminated, a clamper that presses an assembled laminate of the sheet members laminated on the table; a clamper drive unit that horizontally-rotates and vertically-moves the clamper, a level adjuster that moves the table downward relative to the clamper according to a lamination progress of the sheet members. After a new sheet member is laminated on the assembled laminate pressed downward by the clamper, the clamper drive unit lifts up the clamper above the new sheet member while rotating the clamper and then moves the clamper downward to press the new sheet member from above. The level adjuster moves the table downward by a stroke corresponding to thickness of the number of laminated sheets of the sheet members included in the assembled laminate.
US08845838B2	Method for producing a steering wheel A method for producing a steering wheel (10) including a multilayered decorative trim (16) comprises the following steps: providing a multilayered body composed of flat layers joined to each other, the body being bent transversely or perpendicular to the plane of the layers into a shape adapted to the geometry of a steering wheel body part (14), cutting off a thin arcuate decorative layer (26) from a lateral surface of the body, in particular essentially perpendicular to the bending axis, and adapting said decorative layer (26) to and applying it onto said steering wheel body part (14).
US08845834B2	Method for assembling at least two plastic components to each other The method comprises the following steps: provide a first part (5) with a first protruding relief (29); provide a second part (7) with a first orifice (31); insert the first protruding relief (29) through the first orifice (31). The second part (7) has a second protruding relief (35) located in proximity to the first orifice (31), with the first protruding relief (29) and the second protruding relief (35) melted and, after cooling off, assembling together the first and second parts (5, 7) to each other.
US08845833B2	Method for preparing a pyrotechnic composition and charge The invention is directed to a method for preparing a pyrotechnic composition, to the use of a water-soluble cellulose ether binder, to a pyrotechnic composition, to a method for preparing a pyrotechnic charge, and to a pyrotechnic charge. The method of the invention comprises mixing the fibrous nitrocellulose in wet form with the one or more water-soluble cellulose ether binders and optionally one or more solvents, wherein the amount of organic solvent in the mixture is 10 wt. % or less based on total weight of the mixture.
US08845830B2	Method of manufacturing heavy-wall seamless steel pipe A steel pipe with a wall thickness over 30 mm is subjected to heat treatment of quenching and tempering using a temperature range of at least not less than 750° C. during the heating stage, makes it possible to obtain a heavy-wall seamless steel pipe having excellent toughness by resulting grain refinement. Quenching is by performing water cooling after heating the steel pipe to a temperature in the range of not less than 900° C. to not more than 1000° C. by using, as a heating means, induction heating at a frequency of not more than 200 Hz. Tempering is performed at a temperature in the range of not less than 500° C. to not more than 750° C. Preferably, after the heating by induction heating, a soaking treatment is performed in the temperature range of not less than 900° C. to not more than 1000° C. for 10 minutes or less followed by water cooling.
US08845825B2	High strength spring-use heat treated steel The present invention provides spring use heat treated steel which is cold coiled, can achieve both sufficient atmospheric strength and coilability, has a tensile strength of 2000 MPa or more, and can improve the performance as a spring by heat treatment after spring fabrication, that is, high strength spring-use heat treated steel characterized by containing, by mass %, C: 0.45 to 0.9%, Si: 1.7 to 3.0%, and Mn: 0.1 to 2.0%, restricting N: to 0.007% or less, having a balance of Fe and unavoidable impurities, and satisfying, in terms of the analyzed value of the extracted residue after heat treatment, [amount of Fe in residue on 0.2 μm filter/[steel electrolysis amount]×100≦1.1.
US08845824B2	Austenitic heat-resisting cast steel and exhaust manifold using the same An austenitic heat-resisting cast steel is disclosed which is composed mainly of Fe and including 0.4˜0.6 wt % of C, 0.5˜1.0 wt % of Si, 2.1˜2.9 wt % of Mn, 2.1˜2.9 wt % of Ni, 18˜22 wt % of Cr, 1.0˜2.0 wt % of Nb, 2.0˜3.0 wt % of W, 0.25˜0.35 wt % of N and other inevitable impurities. More specifically, this austenitic heat-resisting cast steel can beneficially be applied to an exhaust manifold of an automobile to realize a maximum allowable exhaust gas temperature of the exhaust manifold is 950° C.˜1050° C.
US08845821B2	Process for production of R-Fe-B-based rare earth sintered magnet, and steam control member A sintered R—Fe—B based rare-earth magnet body 1 including, as a main phase, crystal grains of an R2Fe14B type compound that includes a light rare-earth element RL, which is Nd and/or Pr, as a major rare-earth element R is provided. A bulk body 2 including a heavy rare-earth element RH, which is at least one of Dy, Ho and Tb is also provided. The sintered magnet body 1 and the bulk body 2 are arranged in a processing chamber 4 with a vapor control member 3 interposed between the sintered magnet body 1 and the bulk body 2. And the inside of the processing chamber 4 is heated to a temperature of 700° C. to 1000° C., thereby diffusing the heavy rare-earth element RH inside the sintered magnet body 1 while supplying the heavy rare-earth element RH from the bulk body 2 to the surface of the sintered magnet body 1 via the vapor control member 3.
US08845818B2	Metering device for the metered addition of detergents A dispensing apparatus for dispensing substances, such as cleaning, washing, or dishwashing agents, in household appliances such as washing machines, dishwashers, or the like, having a dispensing unit having control means to control dispensing of the substances, and a tank receptacle, a tank for stocking the substances, the tank being embodied as a replaceable unit connectable to the tank receptacle, at least one connection for data transmission between the dispensing unit and the tank, at least one connection for data transmission between the household appliance and the tank and/or the dispensing unit.
US08845805B2	Device and method for producing crystalline bodies by directional solidification The invention relates to a device and a method for producing crystalline bodies by directional solidification. The device comprises a melting furnace (11) having a heating chamber (12) in which at least one supporting surface (13) for a crucible (8) and at least one gas purging device arranged above the supporting surface (13) and having a gas outlet facing the supporting surface (13) are defined. An embodiment of the device is characterized in that the gas outlet is defined by one or more openings in a lower plunger surface of a plunger-shaped element (2) which has a geometry adapted to the inner shape of the crucible (8), said shape allowing an at least partial insertion of the plunger-shaped body (2) into the crucible (8). The gas purging device and/or the supporting surface (13) comprise an adjusting mechanism or are designed to be adjustable in such a manner that they allow an adjustment of a perpendicular distance between the supporting surface (13) and the plunger-shaped body (2). The device and the corresponding method allow carbon- and oxygen-containing materials to be discharged from the melt more efficiently and in a controlled manner. The device and the method thus allow—within certain limits—a specific adjustment of the carbon and oxygen content of the crystalline bodies.
US08845803B2	Method for the surface treatment of inorganic pigment particles The invention relates to a method for the surface treatment of inorganic pigment particles with agglomerates of fine primary particles or single crystals of inorganic compounds, particularly of oxides or sulphates. The method is characterized in that the inorganic compounds are first precipitated from an aqueous solution under suitable pH conditions in a separate vessel in the form of fluffily structured agglomerates and/or single crystals. The precipitation product is subsequently added to an aqueous suspension of inorganic pigment particles. The method is particularly suitable for the surface treatment of titanium dioxide particles, in order to achieve high hiding power or high opacity when used in emulsion paints or laminates.
US08845801B2	Bone cement and method Bone cements and methods provided include a bone cement composition having collective attributes and properties desirable for initial fixation as well as interventional applications. Compositions include an amount of Portland cement and an amount of calcium sulfate.
US08845799B2	Reversibly thermochromic aqueous ink composition, and writing instrument and writing instrument set each utilizing same The present invention relates to a reversibly thermochromic aqueous ink composition comprising: water; a water-soluble organic solvent; a reversibly thermochromic microcapsule pigment which contains a reversibly thermochromic composition comprising: (A) an electron donating coloring organic compound, (B) an electron accepting compound, and (C) a reaction medium which determines temperature at which color reactions between the components (A) and (B) occur; a comb type polymer dispersant having carboxyl groups on its side chains, an organic nitrogen sulfur compound, and a water-soluble resin, a writing instrument using the ink composition, and a writing instrument set comprising the writing instrument and a frictional body.
US08845797B2	Carbon dioxide recovery system A CO2 recovery system includes a CO2 absorption tower for absorbing CO2 in combustion exhaust gas into an absorbing solution by bringing the combustion exhaust gas into contact with the absorbing solution that absorbs CO2; a dissolved oxygen removing device that uses at least one device of a device for blowing bubbling gas into the rich absorbing solution into which CO2 has been absorbed, a device for applying ultrasonic oscillation, and a device for heating the rich absorbing solution; a bubble removing device that turns the rich absorbing solution into which CO2 has been absorbed in the CO2 absorption tower into a swirling flow or agitates the rich absorbing solution; and a regeneration tower that regenerates the absorbing solution by releasing CO2 from the absorbing solution from which oxygen has been removed by the dissolved oxygen removing device and the bubble removing device and obtains CO2 gas.
US08845796B2	Fluid separation device A fluid separation device (400) for separating water from a stream of compressed air, has a housing (402) defining a first volume (404) with two apertures (406, 408) therein in communication with the first volume, the first volume and the apertures being adapted to have a stream of air flowing there through, a first filter (414) contained within the first volume for separating liquid water from the air stream, and a plurality of desiccant beads contained within the first volume for separating water vapor from the air. An exhaust silencer for the fluid separation device is also disclosed.
US08845795B2	Desiccant cartridge for water recovery device 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 media material absorbs the desiccant to increase an exposed surface of the desiccant to the airstream. The configuration of the media material enables maximal water extraction and is dynamically configurable. 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.
US08845793B2	Structural reinforcements for filter assemblies A filter assembly is described herein for controlling the air passing therethrough. The filter assembly can include a housing comprising a cavity formed therein. The filter assembly can also include a filter positioned within the cavity and coupled to the housing. Further, the filter assembly can include a reinforcement structure coupled to an end of the housing and adjacent to a top end of the filter.
US08845790B2	Method and system for removal of gaseous contaminants A method and system for removing gaseous contaminants from a gas stream by contacting the gas stream with a wash solution and regenerating the wash solution in a regeneration system for future use in removing gaseous contaminants from the gas stream.
US08845789B2	Process for CO2 capture with improved stripper performance The present application relates to systems and processes for removal of gaseous contaminants from gas streams. In particular, the application relates to a process for removal of gaseous contaminants from a gas stream comprising contacting the gas stream with a wash solution to remove gaseous contaminants from the gas stream by absorption into the wash solution; and regenerating the used wash solution to remove gaseous contaminants from the used wash solution, to provide a regenerated wash solution and a gas comprising removed contaminants, wherein in a first regeneration stage the gas comprising removed contaminants is cooled to minimize loss of water vapor from the regeneration step.
US08845788B2	Methods and configurations for H2S concentration in acid gas removal A syngas treatment plant is configured to remove sulfurous compounds from syngas in a configuration having two flash stages for a physical solvent to so enrich the acid gas to at least 40 mol % H2S or higher as required by the Claus unit and to flash and recycle CO2 back to the syngas feed. Contemplated methods and configurations advantageously remove sulfur to less than 10 ppmv while increasing H2S selectivity at high pressure operation to thereby allow production of an H2S stream that is suitable as feed gas to a Claus plant.
US08845786B2	Method for purifying a gas stream including mercury The present invention relates to a method for purifying a gas stream including CO2, elemental mercury (Hg0) and nitrogen oxides (NOx).
US08845784B2	Composite mixed carbonate ion and electron conducting membranes and reactant gas assisted chemical reactors for CO2 separation and capture The present disclosure relates to a system for carbon dioxide seperation and capture. The system includes a porous metal membrane comprising Ni, Ag, or combinations thereof and having molten carbonate within the pores. A CO2 containing flue gas input stream is separated from a reactant gas input stream by the membrane. The CO2 is removed from the flue gas input stream as it contacts the membrane resulting in a CO2 free flue gas output stream and a CO2 containing reactant gas output stream.
US08845781B2	Method and apparatus for melting aluminum powder Provided are a method and an apparatus for melting an aluminum powder, which are capable of melting the aluminum powder with a high yield and allow the melted aluminum to be reused for a variety of applications. The method for melting the aluminum powder includes the steps of: preparing a mixture (M) including an aluminum powder (A) and a fluoride-based flux (F) by previously mixing the aluminum powder (A) and the fluoride-based flux (F); and melting the mixture (M) in molten aluminum (L).
US08845780B2	Electric arc furnace dust recycling apparatus and method The present technology provides an illustrative apparatus for recycle electric arc furnace (EAF) dust and method of use related to the same. The apparatus has a heat controlling region coupled to a separation volume and includes at least one magnet and a cooling region. The heating controlling region operates at a temperature sufficient to transform at least some of the EAF dust into a mixture of gaseous zinc and one or more additional metals. The magnet separates the iron-rich material from the mixture of gaseous zinc and one or more additional metals and the cooling region condenses the gaseous zinc.
US08845774B2	Agricultural compositions and methods for making and using the same Soil amendment/foliar nutrient compositions and methods for their manufacture and use are provided. The compositions are aqueous compositions that include a carbon skeleton energy component (CSE); a macronutrient; a vitamin cofactor; a complexing agent; and at least one of exotic micronutrient component and an ionophore component.
US08845773B2	Shaped abrasive particles with an opening Abrasive particles which are shaped abrasive particles each with an opening are described. The shaped abrasive particles are formed from alpha alumina and have a first face and a second face separated by a thickness t. The opening in each of the shaped abrasive particles can improve grinding performance by reducing the size of a resulting wear flat, can provide a reservoir for grinding aid, and can improve adhesion to a backing in a coated abrasive article.
US08845772B2	Process and system for syngas production from biomass materials A process and system suitable for producing syngas from biomass materials. The process and system entail the compaction of a loose biomass material to remove air therefrom and form a compacted biomass material. The compacted biomass material is then introduced into a reactor and heated in the substantial absence of air so as not to combust the compacted biomass material. Instead, the compacted biomass material is heated to a temperature at which organic molecules within the compacted biomass material break down to form ash and gases comprising carbon monoxide and hydrogen gas. Thereafter, the carbon monoxide and hydrogen gas are released from the reactor, and the ash is removed from the reactor.
US08845771B2	System and method for converting solids into fuel A system for converting a solid fuel into a fuel including a pyrolytic unit for producing a pyro gas comprising hydrocarbons, a synthesis gas production unit for converting the pyro gas into a synthesis gas comprising a mixture of hydrogen and carbon monoxide, and a gas-to-liquid unit for converting the synthesis gas into a fuel.
US08845767B2	Methods of treating coal to improve combustion and reduce carbon content of fly ash An iron salt of an organic acid, selected from formic acid, carboxylic acids having (3) or more carbon atoms and sulphonic acids, is used to reduce the carbon content of the fly ash, when coal is combusted.
US08845765B2	Method for lipid extraction from biomass A method for recovering lipids from microbial biomass, the method including providing wet microbial biomass which contains lipids to extraction without disrupting the biomass cell walls, and subsequently, extracting the wet microbial biomass with a liquid extractant at elevated temperature of at least 170° C. and elevated pressure. The combination of the temperature and pressure is such that the lipids in the cells are contacted with the extractant. Subsequently the extracted lipids are recovered from or with the extractant.
US08845760B2	Compound having multimer structure of xanthene derivative, coloring composition, ink for inkjet recording, method of inkjet recording, color filter, and color toner There is provided a compound represented by formula (1): in formula (1), L represents a divalent to tetravalent linking group; D represents a residue obtained by removing 1 to 5 hydrogen atoms from a compound represented by formula (2); m represents an integer of 1 to 10, however, each L may be the same with or different from every other L; n represents an integer of 2 to 10, however, each D may be the same with or different from every other D; and in formula (2), each of R4 to R24 independently represents a hydrogen atom or a substituent, provided that formula (2) has at least one or more ionic hydrophilic groups.
US08845758B2	Means to color and/or lighten keratin fibers without ammonia odor The subject of the disclosure, in an exemplary embodiment, is an agent for coloring and/or lightening keratinic fibers, in particular human hair, containing in a cosmetic carrier: (a) ammonia, (b) one or more alkanolamines from the group of monoethanolamine, 2-amino-2-methylpropanol and triethanolamine, (c) one or more alkalizing agents from the group of potassium hydroxide, sodium hydroxide, sodium silicates, and potassium silicates, (d) one or more ethoxylated fatty alcohols having a degree of ethoxylation from about 80 to about 120, (e) one or more fatty alcohols from the group of arachyl alcohol (eicosan-1-ol), gadoleyl alcohol (9Z)-eicos-9-en-1-ol), arachidonyl alcohol ((5Z,8Z,11Z,14Z)-eicosa-5,8,11,14-tetraen-1-ol), behenyl alcohol (docosan-1-ol), erucyl alcohol ((13Z)-docos-13-en-1-ol) and brassidyl alcohol ((13E)-docosen-1-ol).
US08845754B2	Dynamic support apparatus and system A control unit system. The system includes a control unit which includes a control unit charging interface, at least one magnet located proximate to the control unit charging interface, at least one actuator, a detachable manifold including at least one magnet, fluidly coupled to the at least one actuator, a pump connected to the at least one actuator for causing actuation thereof, and a control system for controlling the pump, wherein the control system controls the pump to actuate the at least one actuator at least in response to a signal received by the control system. The system also includes a recharging device configured to receive the control unit, the recharging device including a reed switch, wherein when the magnet in the control unit is located proximate to the reed switch, the switch is activated.
US08845753B2	Satiation devices and methods A satiation device is described which includes a sheath or liner extending from the proximal or middle stomach to the distal antrum. Food ingested by the patient passes through the sheath or liner, thereby minimizing contact between the ingested food and the stomach. It is believed that over time, reduced contact between food and the stomach will result in decreased Ghrelin production by the patient and a consequent decrease in appetite. In some embodiments, the satiation device may also include a proximal pouch and/or a distal bypass tube.
US08845752B2	Ureteral stent for improved patient comfort A ureteral stent for assisting the movement of urine along a patient's ureter and into the patient's bladder. The stent includes an elongated tubular segment extending toward the bladder from a kidney end region for placement in the renal cavity to a bladder end region. A central lumen connects at least one opening at the first end region to at least one opening in the bladder end region. Thin flexible tail(s) are attached to the bladder end region of the tubular segment at a point outside the bladder so as to receive urine from the opening in the bladder end region of the tubular segment and to transport urine from there across the ureter/bladder junction and into the bladder.
US08845747B2	Prosthesis A cup prosthesis includes a cup, a band disposed about the outer circumference and adjacent to the rim of the cup, an impaction cap disposed at least partially within the space defined by the inner surface and the rim of the cup, and at least one flange extending from the band connected on one end to the impaction cap.
US08845744B2	Ulnar head implant The present teachings provide an ulnar head implant. The implant can include a head component adapted to articulate with a portion of the anatomy. The head component can define a coupling bore through a surface. The implant can also include a stem component having a base and a post that extends from the base for insertion into a prepared portion of an anatomy. The base can include a coupling feature. The implant can include an intermediate component receivable within the coupling bore and couplable to the coupling feature to couple the head component to the stem component.
US08845741B2	Artificial joint components including integral magnetic fields configured to deflect wear debris particles Prosthetic artificial joints are described, including hip, knee and shoulder joints. In some embodiments, an artificial joint prosthesis includes: a bone-facing surface of a artificial joint prosthesis, the bone-facing surface configured to face a bone-prosthesis interface in vivo; a first component of the artificial joint prosthesis including a contact surface of the artificial joint prosthesis, the first component fabricated from at least one polymer and a plurality of magnetic particles; and a second component of the artificial joint prosthesis including at least one magnet configured to create a magnetic field within the artificial joint, the at least one magnet positioned to form a magnetic field directed to influence a location of debris including the magnetic particles in the joint to a position distinct from the bone-prosthesis interface in vivo.
US08845739B2	Artificial joint components including mechanized synovial fluid deflecting structures Prosthetic artificial joints are described, including hip, knee and shoulder joints. In some embodiments, a artificial joint prosthesis includes: a bone-facing surface of a artificial joint prosthesis, the bone-facing surface configured to face a bone-prosthesis interface in vivo; a non-contact surface of the artificial joint prosthesis, the non-contact surface adjacent to the bone-facing surface of the artificial joint prosthesis; at least one fluid deflection structure positioned adjacent to the non-contact surface, the fluid deflection structure positioned to deflect synovial fluid away from the bone-prosthesis interface in vivo; and a mechanism attached to the fluid deflection structure, the mechanism operable to move the fluid deflection structure to direct synovial fluid away from the bone-prosthesis interface in vivo.
US08845736B2	Composite implant A composite interbody vertebral implant for facilitating fusion of adjacent vertebrae. The implant includes a first endplate of a porous metal material and a second endplate of a porous metal material which are configured to allow bone in-growth. The implant also includes a polymeric body positioned between and bonded to the first and second endplates such that polymeric material of the polymeric body is impregnated into pores of the first and second endplates to bond the components together. The implant may include a cavity extending through the composite implant configured to receive bone growth material to facilitate fusion between a first vertebra and a second vertebra.
US08845731B2	Expandable fusion device and method of installation thereof The present invention provides an expandable fusion device capable of being installed inside an intervertebral disc space to maintain normal disc spacing and restore spinal stability, thereby facilitating an intervertebral fusion. In one embodiment, the fusion device includes a central ramp, a first endplate, and a second endplate, the central ramp capable of being moved in a first direction to move the first and second endplates outwardly and into an expanded configuration. The fusion device is capable of being deployed down an endoscopic tube.
US08845729B2	Prosthetic disc for intervertebral insertion A prosthetic disc for insertion between adjacent vertebrae includes a core having upper and lower curved surfaces, upper and lower plates, and peripheral restraining structure on at least one of the upper plate, the lower plate and the core. Each plate has an outer surface which engages a vertebra and an inner curved surface which slides over the curved surface of the core. The peripheral restraining structure serves to hold the core against a curved surface of at least one of the plates during sliding movement of the plates over the core.
US08845725B2	Tenodesis system A tendon anchoring device may include an implant having a pair of spaced apart legs for straddling a tendon. A push rod removably attached to the implant may be utilized to guide and push a portion of the tendon into a pre-drilled bore in a bone. A fixation member may be slid along the push rod and threadably engage an inner surface of the pre-drilled bore to thereby anchor the tendon to the bone while a force is applied to the push rod. Once the fixation member has been installed, the push rod may be disengaged from the implant and removed from the bore. The implant may remain permanently straddled over the tendon inside of the bore.
US08845722B2	Heart valve prosthesis and method of implantation thereof A heart valve prosthesis has a supported valve including a biological valve portion mounted within a support structure. The supported valve has inflow and outflow ends spaced axially apart from each other. A fixation support member includes an inflow portion that extends from a radially inner contact surface of the fixation support member radially outwardly and axially in a direction of the inflow end of the supported valve. An outflow portion of the fixation support member extends from the radially inner contact surface radially outwardly and axially in a direction away from the inflow portion of the fixation support member. The radially inner contact surface is attached to a radially outer surface of the supported valve adjacent the inflow end of the supported valve.
US08845719B2	Extracellular matrix material conduits and methods of making and using same Extracellular matrix (ECM) material conduits are disclosed. Methods for regenerating atrioventricular valves to replace defective atrioventricular valves within a heart of a subject using the ECM material conduits are also disclosed. Methods of sterilizing and decellularizing an ECM material are also disclosed.
US08845718B2	Valve suturing and implantation procedures A prosthesis for implantation at a native semilunar valve includes a prosthetic distal valve, which includes a pliant material configured to collapse inwardly towards a longitudinal axis of the prosthesis during diastole, and to open outwardly during systole, and a distal fixation member configured to be positioned in a downstream artery of the subject. The apparatus also includes a proximal fixation member coupled to the distal fixation member, and configured to be positioned at least partially on a ventricular side of the native semilunar valve. The proximal fixation member is shaped so as to define a lattice that is shaped so as to define an intermediary portion that is coupled to the pliant material of the valve and diverges outwardly from the longitudinal axis, and a distal portion that is distal to the intermediary portion and diverges outwardly from the intermediary portion of the lattice. Other embodiments are also described.
US08845714B2	Sealable attachment of endovascular stent to graft An endovascular prosthesis of the present invention includes an expandable stent and a means for sealably attaching a tubular graft to the stent within the stent's lumen. The means of sealably attaching a graft includes membranes, foams, polymeric materials and combinations thereof. Additionally, the present invention includes methods of forming an endovascular prosthesis and methods of implanting an endovascular prosthesis within a vessel to provide sealable securement of a tubular graft within the stent's lumen.
US08845711B2	Medical device for modification of left atrial appendage and related systems and methods Several embodiments are set forth of devices, systems and methods for modifying an atrial appendage such as a left atrial appendage (LAA). In one embodiment, a device includes a body that is collapsible and self-expanding. The body includes a textured surface with protruding portions and recessed portions. The body may be formed of a reticulated foam material and may exhibit a substantially spherical geometry or a truncated spherical geometry. The body may be substantially hollow. In one embodiment, portions of the textured surface may be metalized or have a coating placed thereon to enhance frictional engagement of the body with the atrial appendage wall. In another embodiment, a mesh bag is disposed within an LAA and one or more self-expanding bodies are disposed within the mesh bag. The mesh bag is then secured to retain the self-expanding bodies within the bag and the LAA.
US08845707B2	Cryotreatment device and method Devices and methods for cooling vessel walls to inhibit restenosis in conjunction with medical procedures such as coronary artery angioplasty. One catheter device includes a distal tube region having coolant delivery holes radially and longitudinally distributed along the distal region. In some devices, holes spray coolant directly onto the vessel walls. In other embodiments, a balloon or envelope is interposed between the coolant and the vessel walls and the coolant returned out of the catheter through a coolant return lumen. Some direct spray devices include an occlusion device to restrict blood flow past the region being cooled. Pressure, temperature, and ultrasonic probes are included in some cooling catheters. Some cooling catheters are coiled perfusion catheters supporting longer cooling periods by allowing perfusing blood flow simultaneously with vessel wall cooling.
US08845698B2	Bone plate A bone plate has an underside on the side of the bone, an upper side and a plurality of holes in the plate connecting the underside with the upper side, with a central hole axis. At least one of these holes in the plate has an internal jacket surface that tapers towards the underside, while the internal jacket surface has N≧3 recesses which extend radially away from the axis of the hole.
US08845696B1	Devices and methods for dynamic fixation of skeletal structure The disclosed screw assemblies include a screw that attaches onto the bone, a housing member that connects and inter-locks the bone screw to the rod, and one or more locking members that permit immobilization of various components of the assembly relative to one another while still permitting some relative movement. The bone screws and bone screw assemblies described herein permit flexible stabilization of the spine.
US08845694B2	Rod extension for extending fusion construct In accordance with embodiments of the present invention, a rod extension for extending a fusion construct is provided. The rod extension allows a surgeon to connect a stabilization rod implant to at least a portion of a patient's spine, and also to connect the stabilization rod implant to an existing implant that has been previously installed in the patient. The existing fusion implant typically includes at least one existing pedicle screw, at least one existing rod, and at least one existing connector interconnecting the existing pedicle screw to the existing rod. The extension implant comprises a rod, an offset beam connected to the rod, and a clamp interconnected to the offset beam, wherein the clamp can be secured to the existing rod, thereby extending the fusion construct. A method of use is also provided.
US08845693B2	Tulip head apparatus A tulip head apparatus includes a chuck housing configured to join to a head of a screw. The chuck housing comprises an upward slot extending from a bottom for enabling the chuck housing to expand to enable entry of the head and to contract to retain the head. A plurality of downward slots extends from a top for enabling a portion of the chuck housing to contract and expand. A plurality of hook structures are disposed about the top. A rotating head includes a hollow portion having a circular groove and to accept the chuck housing in which a contraction of the portion enables entry of the chuck housing and expansion of the portion engages the hook structures with the groove to secure the chuck housing within the rotating head and enable the rotating head to rotate about the chuck housing.
US08845692B2	Implants formed of a shape memory polymeric material for spinal fixation This invention relates to a orthopedic implant that comprises a shape memory polymeric material. The orthopedic implant can be fabricated or molded in a desired configuration selected to provide support or tension to bony structures. Examples of implantable devices include spinal rods, bone plates, and bone fixation cords. The orthopedic implant can be deformed to a second configuration different from the first configuration either prior to implantation or after implantation. When desired, the shape memory polymeric material can be induced to revert to it original molded configuration. This can compress the attached bony structure and/or promote arthrodesis.
US08845683B2	Method and system for sealing percutaneous punctures A device for sealing a puncture in a patient includes a sealing component including an elongate control member configured to pass through a puncture in skin of a patient. The sealing component also includes an expandable member disposed near a distal end of the control member, and a tip releasably attached to the elongate control member distal to the expandable member. The device also includes a sealing material delivery component including a delivery tube through which the control member of the sealing component is configured to extend. The delivery tube is configured to deliver sealing material through an opening in a distal end of the delivery tube.
US08845680B2	Radial artery compression device A radial artery compression device configured to be secured to a wrist or other portion of a patient to provide adjustable and consistent compression pressure in the area of a radial artery access site or other physiological portion of a patient to achieve hemostasis either during or after a medical procedure such as a percutaneous coronary procedure. The radial artery compression device includes a rotatable member and a compression pad adapted such that rotation of the rotatable member does not affect the rotational orientation of the compression pad. According to one embodiment of the present invention, a single rotation of the rotatable member results in complete extension or retraction of the radial artery compression device. According to another embodiment of the present invention, the rotation of the rotatable member results in a compounding of the extension or retraction of the compression pad relative to the body of the radial artery compression device.
US08845674B2	Intragastric device An implant configured for ingestion by a patient. After the implant has been swallowed by the patient and is disposed within the target location, e.g. the patient's stomach, an inflation subcomponent causes the implant to expand from a compact delivery state to an expanded, volume-occupying, deployed state. In the deployed state the implant creates a sensation of satiety in the patient stomach and thereby aids in limiting food intake and obesity. After a predetermined time a deflation subcomponent is actuated and the implant reduces in size so as to allow it to pass through the remainder of the patient's digestive track. The device may further incorporate tracking and visualization subcomponents, as well as pharmaceutical delivery subcomponents.
US08845673B2	Bioerodible self-deployable intragastric implants and methods for use thereof Described herein are bioerodible, biodegradable, or digestible self-deploying intragastric implants that may be swallowed. Once swallowed, the implants undergo self-expansion in the stomach and apply a suitable pressure against the stomach wall to provide a feeling of satiety to the individual. The implants then dissolve or are disassembled perhaps using gastric liquids and pass out of the stomach. Methods of using the devices, perhaps for an individual participating in a dietary control regimen, are described.
US08845668B2	Arthroscopic shaver handpiece with modular attachments An apparatus, system and method are presented by which certain surgical procedures normally done by powered surgical handpieces may be accomplished by powered arthroscopic handpieces, thus obviating the need to use powered surgical handpieces.
US08845666B2	Vitrectomy probe with adjustable cutter port size Vitrectomy probes and system related thereto are disclosed herein. The disclosure describes various example vitrectomy probes having an adjustable cutting port size. Various example features are described for adjusting the size of the cutting port. Further, the disclosure provides examples for adjusting the size of the cutter port while the vitrectomy probe is in operation.
US08845661B2	Device and method for the therapy of obesity An anastomotic device, particularly a positioning device (24) extending along a longitudinal axis (30) comprises a first component, or proximal component (26) and a second component, or distal component (28). The proximal and distal components are suitable to lock an elastic ring (52) in a deformed configuration therebetween. The proximal component (26) has a substantially cylindrical outer structure with a cavity (32) for receiving a proximal end (52a) of the elastic ring (52). The distal component (28) comprises a head (42) and a stem (44) developing along the longitudinal axis (30). The head (42) has a cone or truncated-cone shape.
US08845660B2	Surgical repair article based on HPPE material The invention relates to a surgical repair article, comprising a structural member of high performance polyethylene (HPPE) filament(s). The invention also relates to a method of making such a surgical repair article, and to a kit of parts comprising the article. The surgical repair article comprises a structural member of high performance polyethylene (HPPE) filament(s), and a biodegradable coating applied to the surface of the structural member, wherein the coating comprises a sol/gel produced inorganic oxide and a biologically active compound incorporated therein. The article combines high tensile strength, biocompatibility and favorable bioactive compound delivery characteristics.
US08845659B2	Articulating endoscopic surgical clip applier An apparatus for application of surgical clips to body tissue is provided and includes a handle assembly and a shaft assembly. The handle assembly includes a drive assembly; and a trigger operatively connected to the drive assembly. The shaft assembly extends from the handle assembly and includes an articulating neck assembly; and an end effector assembly supported on a distal end of the articulating neck assembly and being configured to form a surgical clip in place on the body tissue.
US08845658B2	Hemostatic clip and delivery system A clipping device includes (a) a shaft defining a lumen therethrough from a proximal end which, during a procedure remains outside the body accessible to a user and a distal end including a distal opening which, during a procedure is inserted into the body to a position adjacent to target tissue; (b) a flexible clip deployable from the distal opening, when in an unconstrained state, the clip assuming a shape selected to clip tissue and prevent a flow of fluid therethrough wherein, while residing within the lumen the clip is held substantially straight by an inner diameter of the lumen; (c) a control wire extending through the lumen from the proximal end to the distal end thereof; and (d) a release mechanism connecting the control wire to the clip during deployment of the clip and disconnecting the control wire from the clip after deployment thereof.
US08845657B2	Surgical support assembly A surgical support apparatus is disclosed, including an elongate member, a first tissue penetrating member, and a second tissue penetrating member. The second tissue penetrating member includes two segments hingably attached to each other. A distal portion of the second segment of the second tissue penetrating member includes an engagement surface. The first tissue penetrating member has a distal portion including a receiving surface. The engagement surface radially approaches the receiving surface causing the secure engagement of the first and second tissue penetrating members. Surgical objects can be attached to the surgical support apparatus and supported within an internal body cavity. Also disclosed is a method of assembling the surgical support apparatus in an internal body cavity.
US08845655B2	Instrument guide system A system is provided to align a surgical guide instrument over a burr hole in a patient's body. Adjustments of a surgical instrument can be made in x, y, z, and angular directions using the system. An instrument guide unit can include an instrument guide for guiding a surgical instrument into the body of a patient and a base unit operative to be secured to the body near an area in which surgery is to occur. The base unit is coupled to the instrument guide. An adjustment mechanism, coupled to the base unit and the instrument guide, is operative to adjust the instrument guide in lateral directions with respect the surface of the area.
US08845650B2	Instrument for handling a joint component by way of a vacuum Setting instrument (10) for a hip socket or shoulder socket inlay, having a handle part (11) and a suction element (12) that can be brought into sealing contact with the joint surface. The suction element (12) comprises a flexible molded part (13) matched to the joint surface, which molded part is deformable by a pulling element (14) in such a way that, when applied to the joint surface, an (increased) partial vacuum is formed between the joint surface and the flexible molded part (13).
US08845648B2	Minimally invasive orthopaedic apparatus and methods Apparatus and methods for use in the performance of minimally invasive orthopaedic procedures, including apparatus and methods for use in the performance of such procedures under the visualization of an endoscope, are herein disclosed. Such procedures include a minimally invasive intramedullary nailing procedure, a minimally invasive bone graft harvesting procedure, a minimally invasive pelvic osteotomy procedure, an orthopaedic implant revision procedure, and a minimally invasive percutaneous bone plating procedure.
US08845646B2	Apparatus and method for dispensing bone cement An apparatus and method for dispensing bone cement includes a cartridge for containing the bone cement. The apparatus also includes a plunger insertable into the cartridge. An impedance sensor is coupled to the plunger and configured to produce an output signal indicative of an impedance of bone cement contained in the cartridge. The apparatus may also include a processing circuit configured to determine an impedance value of bone cement contained within the cartridge based on the sensor signal. The processing circuit may activate a visual indicator based on the impedance value to indicate that the dough time, the end-of-work time, and/or setting-time of bone cement contained in the cartridge has been reached.
US08845645B2	Methods and apparatus for performing knee arthroplasty Methods and apparatus for performing knee arthroplasty, including, but not limited to, bicruciate retaining knee arthroplasty, are described herein. Methods and apparatus for preparing a distal femur for a femoral implant as well as methods and apparatus for preparing a proximal tibia for a tibial implant are described. These methods and apparatus, in at least some embodiments and uses, facilitate decreasing the complexity of knee arthroplasty procedures such as bicruciate retaining procedures, while maintaining, if not improving on, the safety, accuracy and/or effectiveness of such procedures.
US08845639B2	Tissue modification devices Described herein are elongate devices for modifying tissue having a plurality of flexibly connected and rungs or links, and methods of using them, including methods of using them to decompress stenotic spinal tissue. These devices may be included as part of a system for modifying tissue. In general, these devices include a plurality of blades positioned on for formed from) rungs that are flexibly connected and may be separated by one or more spacers. The rungs are typically wider than they are long (e.g., rectangular). The rungs may be arranged, ladder like, and may be connected by a flexible connector substrate or between two or more cables. Different sized rungs may be used, or rungs with different cutting properties. In some variations the tissue modification devices may have a non-linear axial shape, or may be converted from a first axial shape to a second axial shape.
US08845638B2	Tissue disruption device and corresponding methods A tissue disruption device (10) for deployment via a rigid conduit (100) includes a rotary tissue disruptor (12) insertable along the conduit with its axis of rotation (14) parallel to the direction of conduit elongation (16). An angular displacement mechanism allows selective displacement of the rotary tissue disruptor (12) such that the axis of rotation (14) sweeps through a range of angular motion. A rotary drive is linked to the rotary tissue disruptor so as to drive the rotary tissue disruptor in rotary motion while the rotary tissue disruptor is at a range of angular positions within the range of angular motion.
US08845637B2	Tissue access guidewire system and method A method and system for guiding at least a portion of a surgical device to a desired position between two tissues in a patient's body involves coupling a guidewire to the device and pulling the distal end of the guidewire to guide at least a portion of the surgical device to a desired position between the two tissues. The surgical device generally includes one or more guidewire coupling members and may comprise a tissue access device. A system may include a guidewire and a surgical device. In some embodiments, a guidewire, a tissue access device, and one or more additional devices to use with the access device may be provided. Methods, devices and systems may be used in open, less-invasive or percutaneous surgical procedures, in various embodiments.
US08845634B2	Method of sensing gases during medical procedures A method of sensing gases during medical procedures that includes electronically altering a gas-identification sensor, coupled with an electronic medical device, to selectively detect at least one of a plurality of gases, receiving the at least one of the plurality of gases in the electronic medical device, the electronic medical device having an energy output, transferring the at least one of the plurality of gases to the gas-identification sensor for identification, and then reducing an amount of energy emitted from the energy output upon identification of the at least one of the plurality of gases.
US08845631B2	Systems and methods of performing medical procedures A medical method is provided, including a medical device having a distal assembly including at least one electrode and at least one treatment element, the medical device generating information regarding at least one of a physiological measurement and an operational parameter of the medical device; a plurality of surface electrodes affixable to a skin of the patient, wherein the surface electrodes are in electrical communication with the distal assembly to obtain position information of the medical device; and a processor pairing the position information and the at least one of a physiological measurement and an operational parameter of the medical device.
US08845625B2	Method and apparatus for automated placement of scanned laser capsulorhexis incisions Systems and methods are described for cataract intervention. In one embodiment a system comprises a laser source configured to produce a treatment beam comprising a plurality of laser pulses; an integrated optical system comprising an imaging assembly operatively coupled to a treatment laser delivery assembly such that they share at least one common optical element, the integrated optical system being configured to acquire image information pertinent to one or more targeted tissue structures and direct the treatment beam in a 3-dimensional pattern to cause breakdown in at least one of the targeted tissue structures; and a controller operatively coupled to the laser source and integrated optical system, and configured to adjust the laser beam and treatment pattern based upon the image information, and distinguish two or more anatomical structures of the eye based at least in part upon a robust least squares fit analysis of the image information.
US08845623B2	Method for isolating a part of a layer of a biological material A film with a tissue section is placed with the tissue section downward on a microscope slide and the microscope slide positioned in the object plane of an inverse microscope; where an adhesive tape is arranged, with a bonding agent downward, above the film and therefore above the tissue section; wherein the next step, tissue to be isolated is excised by a focused laser beam, which also divides the film; whereupon removal of the adhesive tape from the microscope, the excised tissue pieces adhere to the adhesive tape, and the remnant of the film and of the tissue section remains adhering to the microscope slide.
US08845622B2	Surgical instrument The invention relates to a surgical instrument (100; 200) comprising: an elongated arm (111; 207) according to a longitudinal axis and having a distal end (105; 204) mounted with a pivot joint on the elongated arm according to an axis substantially orthogonal to the longitudinal axis; a drive shaft (103; 3), substantially coaxial with the elongated arm, comprising means forming a universal joint (104; 206) facing the pivot joint; and, distal tool (9) securely fastened on the drive shaft and rotatively mounted on and in the extension of the distal end of the elongated arm, such that the distal tool has two rotational degrees of freedom, distinct and independent of each other, one being around an axis substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the elongated arm and the other being around an axis substantially collinear to an own axis of the distal tool, characterized in that the means forming a universal joint comprise a flexible drive sleeve (104; 206).
US08845621B2	Apparatus for rotating medical devices, systems including the apparatus, and associated methods A rooter includes a rotatable element, an actuator for causing the rotatable element to rotate, and a coupling feature for rotatably coupling an elongate medical instrument to the rotatable element. The rotatable element may be at least partially contained within the interior of a housing or another element that remains substantially stationary as the actuator causes the rotatable element to rotate. The rooter may be used with a variety of elongate medical instruments, such as needles, drill bits, trocars, wires, catheters, tubes, and other elongate instruments that are used to enable or effect medical procedures within the body of a subject. The rooter may be used for a variety of purposes, including, without limitation, the introduction of an elongate medical instrument into the body of a subject or its removal from the subject's body; removing, breaking up, or eliminating obstructions (e.g., blood clots, plaques, etc.) from the body of a subject; and obtaining samples from a subject's body.
US08845619B2	Wound treatment apparatus and method An apparatus and method for aspirating, irrigating and/or cleansing wounds is provided. The apparatus and method include one or more of the following: simultaneous aspiration and irrigation of the wound, supplying of thermal energy to fluid circulated through the wound; supplying physiologically active agents to the wound; a biodegradable scaffold in contact with the wound bed; and application of stress or flow stress to the wound bed.
US08845618B2	Anti-clog suction tip apparatus and method An anti-clog suction tip apparatus includes a suction tip having a suction opening and an interior defining a suction channel. An ejection wire channel extends to a wire exit opening into the suction channel that is located proximate the suction opening. An ejection wire including a ball tip at an end thereof occupies the ejection wire channel and is transitionable between a retracted configuration and an advanced configuration such that, in the retracted configuration, the ejection wire including the ball tip is retained within the ejection wire channel and does not obstruct suctioning of debris through the suction channel; and in the advanced configuration, the ball tip of the ejection wire does not extend more than three millimeters beyond the suction opening.
US08845617B2	Respiratory access port assembly with push button lock and method of use A respiratory access assembly includes a distal plate having one port and cuff and an axially aligned proximal plate including a first port and first cuff and a second port and second cuff. The distal plate is configured to move relative to the proximal plate. The respiratory access assembly includes an actuator, which has a plurality of predetermined positions. The actuator can lock the plates together such that the distal port is aligned with either port of the proximal plate or so that the distal port is not aligned with either port of the proximal plate. A method of using a respiratory access assembly is provided.
US08845616B2	Apparatus and method for electrosurgical suction A suction apparatus evacuates the surgical smoke. For example, the suction apparatus may be arranged adjacent to an electrocautery electrode, which may generate smoke during operation, for evacuating smoke from a surgical site. The suction apparatus may have a ring manifold having an inner perimeter for receiving the surgical instrument. A plurality of suction intake ports may be arranged about the outer perimeter of the ring manifold for evacuating smoke that may be generated by the surgical instrument.
US08845612B2	Methods for iontophoretically treating nausea and migraine Methods for treating nausea and migraine by iontophoretically administering triptan compounds are provided.
US08845610B2	Wearable article with highly extensible fastening member having stress distribution features Wearable disposable absorbent articles such as disposable diapers, having elastically extensible fastening members (also sometimes known as fastening “ears”) with particular features, extending from a chassis or main portion of the articles, are disclosed. The fastening members may be highly extensible and have an overall geometry characterized by greater length nearer the chassis or main portion and lesser length nearer the distal end. Examples disclosed may have a fastener zone having a Stiffness of at least about 1,500 N/m, and shape and dimensional characteristics, that help avoid problems of buckling and/or flipping of edges of the fastening members, dishing of fastener components, and fastening member tearing, while the articles are applied and worn.
US08845608B2	Holster-style pouch assembly for carrying a post-surgical fluid drainage container A holster-style pouch assembly carries a post-surgical fluid drainage system. The assembly includes an adjustable waistband, a pouch and a loop band. The pouch has an upwardly extending flap for at least partially closing off the pouch interior from the exterior environment. The flap has closure mechanisms attachable to and detachable from closure mechanisms disposed on the pouch interior and exterior. The flap extends over the waistband such that the pouch is suspended and secured with fastening mechanisms to the waistband when the flap closure mechanisms and the pouch closure mechanisms are attached. The pouch is capable of containing at least one post-surgical fluid drainage container. In operation, one or more fluid drainage tubes is capable of extending downwardly into the fluid drainage collection container inside the pouch. The fluid drainage tube is securable between the waistband and the loop band when the band closure mechanisms are attached.
US08845604B2	Device for providing a vacuum for vacuum wound treatment comprising a holding or carrying device A portable device (2) for providing a vacuum for medical vacuum treatment of wounds on the body of a person or of an animal has a holding or carrying device (10) with two connecting sections (12, 14) on the housing, which are disposed on the housing part (4) for connection to two connecting sections of a holding or carrying strap on the strap, wherein the holding or carrying strap comprises a third strap-side connecting section, which is spaced apart from the opposing ends of the holding or carrying strap and from the first and second strap-side connecting sections disposed there, and arranged between these ends, for connection to one of the connecting sections on the housing and/or to a strap-side connecting section disposed at the end.
US08845603B2	Silencer for vacuum system of a wound drainage apparatus Apparatus (10, 200) for the provision of TNP therapy to a wound is described, the apparatus (10, 200) including: a waste canister (22, 204) into which fluid is aspirated from a wound by aspiration pump means (44, 248) and a fluid flow path (420, 422) for at least a part of said aspirated fluid on an outlet side of said aspiration pump means (44) wherein said fluid flow path (420, 422) on the outlet side comprises a silencing system (400) having a plurality of silencing elements (402, 404, 406) therein.
US08845602B2	Individual portable device for eye bath Individual portable device (1) for eye bath, comprising a receptacle (5) with narrow neck (4) enclosing a sterile liquid for eye bath and an eye cup (2) provided with a sleeve interlocked on the neck; an elastically deformable and heat-stable seal (6) has an at least L-shaped section and rests on the rim (7) of the neck of the receptacle; the skirt (6a) defining the large leg of the L is clamped between the sleeve of the eye cup and the neck of the receptacle; thus the eye cup (2) is secured to the receptacle (5) in a leaktight manner regardless of the deformations undergone by the neck of the receptacle and the sleeve of the eye cup during heat sterilization treatments.
US08845599B2	Medical procedures, devices and kits for the formation and removal of plug-forming compositions The present description relates to plug-forming compositions, to medical procedures employing such compositions, to methods for removing such compositions, and to products pertaining to such compositions, including medical devices, medical device components, and kits, among other aspects.
US08845590B2	Catheter with distal diffuser A catheter configured with an elongate tube and a diffuser is disclosed. The diffuser may be configured to facilitate high flow rates through the catheter and to resist blockage of openings disposed within the body. Further, the catheter may be comprised of flexible materials to facilitate delivery into and removal from the body. In some embodiments the diffuser may be generally disc shaped.
US08845589B2	Device and methods for delivering fluids to animals Embodiments of the present invention feature devices and methods for providing fluids to or venting gas from animals which feature a tube and a sheath in which the sheath covers the tube as the tube in inserted into the oral cavity and esophagus.
US08845587B2	Infusion pump assembly An infusion pump assembly is disclosed. The infusion pump assembly includes a locking tab and a pump barrel inside a pump barrel housing, where the pump barrel accommodates a reservoir assembly. The reservoir assembly includes a reservoir and a plunger rod. The infusion pump assembly also includes a locking disc at a terminus of the pump barrel. The locking disc includes a clearance hole for the plunger rod. The locking disc also includes at least one locking tab notch in close proximity with the locking tab. The locking tab is in moveable engagement with the locking tab notch, and the reservoir moves the locking tab from a locked position to an unlocked position when the plunger rod is inserted through clearance hole. The locking disc rotates upon torque being applied to the reservoir assembly, the locking disc rotating from a non-loaded position to a loaded position with respect to the plunger rod and a drive screw.
US08845584B2	Safety shield for medical needles A medical needle shield apparatus is provided that includes a needle hub having a needle cannula extending therefrom. At least one shield is extensible from a retracted position to an extended position to enclose a distal end of the needle. The shield includes a binding member disposed within the shield and defines binding surfaces that form an aperture configured for slidable receipt of the inner needle. The binding member includes at least one drag inducing member that engages the inner needle during slidable receipt to create a drag force. The drag force facilitates rotation of the binding member such that the binding surfaces engage the inner needle to prevent slidable movement. The shield and/or hub includes a retention element engageable between the shield and hub and a sheath retention element. The hub includes a magnifier for viewing fluid flashback.
US08845583B2	Embolic protection devices An embolic protection device for use in a blood vessel when an interventional procedure is being performed in a stenosed or occluded region to capture any embolic material which may be created and released into the bloodstream during the procedure. The device includes a filtering assembly having a self-expanding strut assembly and a filter element attached thereto. In one embodiment, the filtering assembly is attached to the distal end of a guidewire and is deployed within the patient's vasculature as the guidewire is manipulated into the area of treatment. A restraining sheath placed over the filtering assembly in a coaxial arrangement maintains the filtering assembly in its collapsed position until it is ready to be deployed by the physician. Thereafter, the sheath can be retracted to expose the filtering assembly which will then self-expand within the patient's vasculature. Interventional devices can be delivered over the guidewire and any embolic debris created during the interventional procedure and released into the blood stream will enter the filtering assembly and be captured therein. Other embodiments include filtering assemblies attached to an outer tubular member and inner shaft member which apply axial force to the distal ends of the assembly to either expand or contract the struts as needed.
US08845582B2	Device for protecting a catheter, and a method for locating a catheter in a remote location in a human or animal body A device (1) comprises a sheath (9) for protecting a balloon catheter (2) from contamination with bodily fluids and other matter during the carrying out of a procedure or investigation at a remote site in a human or animal body. The sheath (9) defines a catheter accommodating portion (14) and a balloon accommodating portion (15) for accommodating a catheter (4) and a balloon (8) of the balloon catheter (2) therein. The sheath (9) is of a flexible material having a closed distal end (11) and a proximal opening (13) at a proximal end (10) thereof to a hollow interior region (12) within which the balloon catheter (2) is accommodated. A guide wire engaging distal portion (19) engages and locates a guide wire (7) within the sheath (9). The balloon accommodating portion (15) permits inflating of the balloon (8) to a predefined volume.
US08845581B2	Medical balloon deflation Medical balloons are energetically treated to form regions that facilitate deflation to a desirable configuration.
US08845580B2	Shear-sensitive injectable delivery system A delivery system for delivering a shear-sensitive injectable material into the body of a mammal, such as a human being, acts as a mechanical feed that continuously mixes a shear-sensitive injectable material as it delivers the shear-sensitive injectable material to a target tissue, or to a site adjacent a target tissue. In one embodiment of the invention, the delivery system comprises an injector system including a rotatable mixing member coupled to a driving system. The injector system comprises a housing defining a lumen and having an output end and a driving system connection end and includes a rotatable mixing member for coupling to the driving system and for mixing and delivering the shear-sensitive injectable material. The driving system comprises a drive mechanism, an actuator capable of actuating the drive mechanism, and an interfacing member coupled to the drive mechanism for coupling with the mixing member to rotate the mixing member when the interfacing member is driven by the drive mechanism.
US08845576B2	Electrosurgical tool An electrosurgical tool for cauterizing or ablating patient tissue, which tool includes a tubular shaft which defines therein a conduit in communication with a suction source and which mounts an electrode at the distal end thereof. An electrode support element is provided at the distal end of the shaft for mounting and insulating the electrode. The support element and the electrode together define a suction opening at the treating surface of the electrode which minimizes clogging of the tool.
US08845575B2	Wound treatment apparatus A wound treatment apparatus includes a tray (10) having a region adapted to receive a patient's body part (e.g. a leg) for treatment, a spray head (22, 23) for applying a spray of a gas containing liquid onto the body part and a covered well (13) in the tray having inlets (18) for surplus liquid and gas from the spray. Outlets are provided in communication with the well for gas and liquid respectively for connection to a suction to draw surplus liquid and gas from the well, and a unitary coupling (20) provides a plurality of fluid connections including a liquid supply for the spray head and liquid and gas withdrawal from said well outlets.
US08845573B2	Implantable access for removal and/or return of fluids Implantable access device for removal and/or return of fluids to a patient, comprising a casing attached to an internal conduit to be connected with a lumen of the patient; a connector attached at the casing and connected to an external conduit, and arranged for attachment of an extracorporeal lumen to the device; and an actuator unit within the casing to selectively allow or block the fluid communication between the internal conduit and the external conduit; the device further comprising a fixation unit integrated in or attached at the casing arranged for fixation of the device to a bone of the patient; wherein the fixation unit extends axially along the longitudinal axis of the device. The disclosed access device can be used for high volume removal and/or return of blood or other fluids from the patient.
US08845568B2	Distractor straps for use with distractor apparatuses Distractor straps for use with distractor apparatuses are disclosed. In one embodiment, a distractor strap includes a cinch strap having a free end and a second end. The second end of the cinch strap includes an adjustment mechanism receiving the free end of the cinch strap such that the cinch strap forms a closed loop. A diameter of the closed loop is adjustable with the adjustment mechanism. The distractor strap further includes a cross strap comprising a first loop, a second loop, and strapping connecting the first loop and the second loop. The cinch strap is positioned in the first loop and the second loop such that the cross strap extends across the diameter of the closed loop formed by the cinch strap and the cross strap and the cinch strap are slidable with respect to one another.
US08845562B2	Gas supply system A gas supply system comprises a person-support surface, a garment, and a gas supply. The person-support surface includes a chamber configured to contain a gas therein. The garment includes a chamber configured to contain a gas therein. The gas supply is configured to supply a gas to both the garment and the person-support surface.
US08845561B2	Non-invasive method of spinal intervention and use of devices effective for spinal intervention The present technology is the use of the combination to treat a patient and the treatment of a patient. Sine waves are generated digitally by the combination. Data validation is used to ensure correct directional alignment prior to device activation. Patient safety and consistency in treatment protocols are considered in the spinal and upper cervical impulse treatment design. A patient is treated with smooth sinusoidal waveform with a force of about 8 N to about 12.2 N with a Z-axis of acceleration (shear acceleration) of about 0.5 g to about 5g at about 5 Hertz (Hz) to about 200 Hertz. Treatment conditions can be varied depending upon the size of the patient, which includes human and veterinary patients. The method is non-invasive.
US08845556B1	Method and apparatus for body balance and alignment correction and measurement This invention pertains generally to non-invasive methods and apparatus for analyzing and improving human balance. More particularly, this invention describes a human balance analysis and improvement apparatus and method that involves the use of separate and synergistically integrated and combined means for analyzing and producing perfect core body alignment and balance: an alignment indicator, sway measurement apparatus, and foot force measurement and force centering apparatus. Data received from the aforesaid devices or various combinations thereof is then integrated and displayed by appropriate software and/or display apparatus for use in perfecting, analyzing and/or correcting human balance. The alignment and sway measurement apparatus of the invention is preferably subject based upon video motion capture technology. The foot force measurement and force centering apparatus is preferably based upon a pair of segmented force plates with underlying sensors capable of registering differences in distribution of weight on different parts of the segments.
US08845551B2	Medical guide wire, an assembly of microcatheter and guiding catheter combined with the medical guide wire, and an assembly of ballooncatheter and guiding catheter combined with the medical guide wire In a medical guide wire 1, a helical spring body 3 is made of austenitic stainless steel wire treated with a solid-solution procedure, and tightly drawn with a whole cross sectional reduction ratio as 90%-99.5%. A metallic wire element of the helical spring body 3 is heat treated at low temperature within a range in which a tensile rupture strength of the helical spring body 3 rapidly increases by partly or totally making use of a conductive heat generated when a core wire 2 and the helical spring body 3 are in part bonded by means of a welding member 4. This makes it possible to improve a mechanical strength property, especially a fatigue-resistant property against a repetitive bending action of the helical spring body 3.
US08845548B2	Cutter drive assembly for biopsy device A biopsy device comprises a body, a needle, and a cutter actuation mechanism. The needle extends distally from the body. The cutter actuation mechanism rotates and translates the cutter relative to the body and relative to the needle. The cutter has an overmold presenting a lead screw and a hex portion. The cutter actuation mechanism comprises a first gear disposed about the hex portion of the overmold and a second gear engaged with the lead screw of the overmold by a nut that is integral with the second gear. The cutter actuation mechanism is operable to simultaneously rotate the first gear relative to the body at a first rotational speed and the second gear relative to the body at a second rotational speed. With the lead screw and the nut rotating at different rotational speeds, the lead screw rotates relative to the nut at a third rotational speed.
US08845544B2	Sensing rate of change of pressure in the left ventricle with an implanted device An implantable device and method for monitoring S1 heart sounds with a remotely located accelerometer. The device includes a transducer that converts heart sounds into an electrical signal. A control circuit is coupled to the transducer. The control circuit is configured to receive the electrical signal, identify an S1 heart sound, and to convert the S1 heart sound into electrical information. The control circuit also generates morphological data from the electrical information. The morphological data relates to a hemodynamic metric, such as left ventricular contractility. A housing may enclose the control circuit. The housing defines a volume coextensive with an outer surface of the housing. The transducer is in or on the volume defined by the housing.
US08845543B2	Signal processing apparatus and method A method and an apparatus to analyze two measured signals that are modeled as containing desired and undesired portions such as noise, FM and AM modulation. Coefficients relate the two signals according to a model defined. The method and apparatus are particularly advantageous to blood oximetry and pulserate measurements.
US08845539B2	Methods and systems for estimating gestation age of a fetus Methods, systems and computer program products for estimating the gestational age of a fetus are provided. According to one embodiment, the method generates a component image from a segmented ultrasound image of a fetal head. The component image includes one or more edges. The method then identifies a third ventricle within the component image. The method estimates a length of a bi-parietal diameter, based at least in part on the orientation of the third ventricle. Thereafter, the method estimates the gestational age of the fetus.
US08845538B2	Ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus The invention was made to simplify the operation relating to the detection of an absolute pressure applied to a test body by an ultrasonic probe and thereby to enhance usability. The fact that an elastic coupler has been attached to the ultrasonic wave transmitter/receiver surface and the fact that the elastic coupler is in an initial state with no pressure are detected (S2, S3), an initial thickness of the elastic coupler in the initial state is obtained (S6), the fact that the elastic coupler is in the pressurized state is detected based on the disappearance of a multiple echo which is included in an RF signal and caused due to the elastic coupler, the thickness of the elastic coupler in the pressurized state is obtained by detecting the boundary between the test body and the elastic coupler in the pressurized state, the thickness change is obtained based on the thickness in the pressurized state and the initial thickness (S7), and the absolute pressure applied to the test object is evaluated based on the thickness change and the pre-set elasticity property of the elastic coupler (S8).
US08845536B2	Transcutaneous analyte sensor The present invention relates generally to systems and methods for measuring an analyte in a host. More particularly, the present invention relates to systems and methods for transcutaneous measurement of glucose in a host.
US08845534B2	Techniques for evaluating stress urinary incontinence (SUI) using involuntary reflex cough test A system and method evaluates a patient for stress urinary incontinence. An involuntary reflex cough event is induced within the patient that activates the nucleus ambiguous and medial motor cell column of the patient and stimulates involuntary cough activated paraspinal muscles in the pelvis of the patient. And elecromyogram (EMG) is obtained from the involuntary cough activated paraspinal muscles and its duration determined. Any urine leakage time that occurs during the involuntary reflex cough event is identified and correlated within a processor together with the urine leakage time and EMG and duration of cough event to determine stress urinary incontinence.
US08845530B2	Resposable biosensor assembly and method of sensing A device, system, and method for delivering a device such as a sensor or fluid transport structure or a fluid transport structure sensor combination into, for example, mammalian skin and receiving, analyzing, and displaying signals from the device such as a sensor are disclosed. A system in accordance with embodiments of the present invention includes a reusable sensor assembly including a transmitter, microcontroller, and housing plus a disposable sensor assembly including a housing having an opening for receiving both the distal end of a biosensor, a sensor insertion guidance structure, and a transmission apparatus for transmitting signals received from the sensor to a reusable sensor assembly for transmission to an external electronic monitoring unit.
US08845526B2	Integrated otoscope and three dimensional scanning system A multi-purpose device that can be used, as, among other things, an otoscope and a three dimensional scanning system is disclosed.
US08845525B2	Laryngoscope insertion section with tube guide for guiding endotracheal tubes having a range of external diameters A laryngoscope insertion section includes an elongate support member and a tube guide having a resilient tube guiding member, to enable the insertion section to be used with endotracheal tubes having a wide range of external diameters. The breadth and/or thickness of the insertion section can therefore be less when retaining an endotracheal tube having a relatively small external diameter, enabling the insertion section to reliably guide tubes having a range of external diameters and to reliably guide relatively small external diameter tubes while occupying less volume that would otherwise be required in order for the tube guide to be able to guide tubes having a larger external diameter.
US08845522B2	Medical instrument with a deflectable distal portion A deflection assembly of a medical instrument (such as an endoscope or a flexible ureteroscope) allows an operator to deflect a distal portion of the instrument using one or more controls located at a proximal portion of the instrument. The instrument allows the operator to achieve multi-directional deflection of the distal portion.
US08845521B2	Torque limiting mechanism of bendable portion control device for an endoscope A bendable portion control device for an endoscope including a control portion and an insertion portion extending therefrom, the insertion portion having a bendable portion at a distal end thereof, the bendable portion control device includes a control wire fixed thereto and extending to the control portion through the insertion portion; a control knob disposed on the control portion; an operating force transmission mechanism having a pair of relatively rotatable members connected to the control knob and a proximal end of the control wire, respectively; and a torque limiting mechanism for allowing torque to be transmitted to the bendable portion via the control wire when the torque is equal to or less than a predetermined torque, and for preventing the torque from being transmitted to the bendable portion via the control wire by disengaging the relatively rotatable members from each other when exceeding the predetermined torque.
US08845518B2	Inflatable member for an endoscope sheath Apparatus and methods for attaching and forming enclosed inflatable members on an endoscope assembly with a disposable sheath are disclosed. In one embodiment, an apparatus includes a flexible and resilient cuff member that is positioned on the outer surface of the disposable sheath and sealably and fixedly bonded to the sheath cover material at the cuff edges to form an annular space capable of being inflated. The inflatable member formed thereby is inflated through a lumen internal to the sheath that has an opening into the interior annular space. The inflatable member may be inflated to exert a longitudinal force on the insertion tube, thereby moving the endoscope assembly along a body passage. Alternately, a sheath may include a plurality of inflatable cuffs that may be inflated to create an isolated space therebetween within the body passage.
US08845515B2	Penile implant with dilatant liquid A penile prosthetic system includes a reservoir that is configured to be attached to a penile implant. The penile implant includes a first bladder and a second bladder, with the first bladed configured to be attached into fluid communication with the reservoir and the second bladder containing a dilatant liquid.
US08845510B2	Flexible galvanic primary and non galvanic secondary coils for wireless coplanar energy transfer (CET) Systems and methods of the invention generally involve a convertible power transfer system for supplying wireless energy to an implant. According to certain aspect, a system of the invention includes a convertible inductive coil and a receiver inductive coil. The convertible inductive coil may be disposed externally on a body of a patient and to inductively transmit electromagnetic power. The convertible inductive coil transitions between direct electromagnetic power transfer and passive electromagnetic power transfer. The receiver inductive coil can be implanted within the body and provides received electromagnetic power to the implant. The convertible inductive coil, during passive electromagnetic power transfer, couples to the receiver inductive coil such that the convertible inductive coil and receiver inductive coil operate together as single receiver inductive coil that receives inductively transferred electromagnetic power from a distant transmitter inductive coil.
US08845509B2	Ventricular assist device and related methods A method and system are provided for percutaneously gaining access to oxygenated blood with one or more anastomosis devices and pumping such oxygenated blood directly to the aorta adjacent to the right atrium or left atrium via a VAD system. In one embodiment, a VAD system can be implanted with open surgery.
US08845506B2	Centrifuge and changeable weir inserts therefor A centrifuge, including: a flange closing off one axial end of a separation chamber; a plurality of apertures that traverse axially through the flange at a radial distance from a flange axis, wherein at least one aperture is in fluid communication with a first outlet passage; a plurality of weir inserts removably disposed within the plurality of apertures to control a flow of one or more fluids from the separation chamber; wherein at least one weir insert disposed within the at least one aperture in fluid communication with the first outlet passage is changeable to prevent or allow fluid communication between the separation chamber and the first outlet passage.
US08845502B2	Control for a machine for the manufacture of paper padding The invention relates to a control for a machine for producing paper padding material. The machine comprises a drive motor which transports sheets of paper through a shaping device. In this shaping device, the sheets of paper are shaped to paper padding material which is then cut to the desired length in a cutting device. The inventive control allows for an automatic memorization of a manually selected storage length.
US08845499B1	Personal force resistance cable exercise device, force resistance assembly, and method of exercising A personal force-resistance cable exercise device includes a force resistance assembly, elongated flexible cable, and a movable exercise implement. The force resistance assembly comprises a mounting frame, a rotatable assembly shaft carried by the mounting frame, a disk rotor fixedly attached to the assembly shaft, an adjustable friction controller adapted for frictionally engaging the disk rotor, and a one-way cable spool. The one-way cable spool is locked to the assembly shaft upon rotation of the cable spool in a working force-resistance direction, and is freely movable relative to the assembly shaft upon rotation of cable spool in an opposite cable-wind-up direction. The flexible cable is attached to the force resistance assembly, and adapted for winding on and unwinding from the cable spool. The exercise implement is attached to the flexible cable, and adapted for being employed by a user performing an exercise.
US08845496B2	System and method for gaming Systems and methods applicable, for instance, in gaming. Functionality might, for instance, be provided wherein one or more users are, in the context of a video game, presented with one or more real-world fitness tasks to be performed. Various monitoring operations might, for example, be performed. Various compensatory operations might, for example, be performed. Such compensatory operations might, for instance, take into account user fitness levels and/or environments in which real-world fitness tasks are performed.
US08845494B2	Step trainer for enhanced performance using rhythmic cues A person's step length and rate may be measured, for example, through sensors that collect spatial and temporal gait parameter data. The measurements are then used to determine the rate of a rhythmic auditory cue to improve the person's gait. For example, a system links sensors to detect step rate and length to an audio cue provided to headphones, while providing the appropriate algorithms to accomplish real time adjustments to the audio cues as needed to better help change the person's step length vs. step rate ratio in a desired direction depending on therapeutic or performance goals.
US08845492B2	Engine control override systems and methods A system comprising a controller configured to determine if a brake control of a vehicle is actuated; determine a delay time in response to a speed of the vehicle; determine if the delay time has passed from when the brake control was actuated; and if the delay time has passed, override an engine control of the vehicle.
US08845491B2	Micro-electro-mechanical-system (MEMS) based hydraulic control system for automated manual transmissions An automated manual transmission includes a hydraulic device, a pilot valve, and a regulating valve. The pilot valve is operably connected to the hydraulic device and configured to actuate. The pilot valve includes at least one micro-electro-mechanical systems (MEMS) based device. The regulating valve is operably connected to the pilot valve and the hydraulic device. The regulating valve is configured to direct fluid to the hydraulic device based on the actuation of the pilot valve.
US08845490B2	Method and system for delaying shift and throttle commands based on engine speed in a marine vessel A method for delaying shift and throttle commands based on engine speed comprises establishing a predetermined threshold engine speed. Shift and throttle commands are calculated based on the position of a joystick which allows an operator to manually control shift and throttle functions. Execution of the shift and throttle commands is delayed if the engine speed is above the predetermined maximum threshold engine speed.
US08845487B2	Control for a variable tensioning device for a ribbedV-belt of a motor vehicle drive A tensioning device is provided for a ribbed V-belt of a motor vehicle with at least one tensioning pulley that is directly and functionally connected to the ribbed V-belt and with a controller designed for varying the position and/or configuration of the tensioning pulley in dependence on the instantaneous operating state of at least one belt pulley on a driven side and/or a driving side that is connected to the ribbed V-belt in order to operationally adapt the tension of the ribbed V-belt.
US08845485B2	Auxiliary power unit having a continuously variable transmission Inventive embodiments are directed to components, subassemblies, systems, and/or methods for auxiliary power units (APU). In one embodiment, the APU includes a source of rotational power such as a combustion engine operably coupled to a continuously variable transmission (CVT). The CVT can be coupled to a load. In some embodiments, the load is provided by a generator. In one embodiment, the APU has a control system configured to control the operation of the engine and the operation of the CVT. The control system can facilitate substantially constant speed operation of the generator in the presence of variable operation of the engine. In another embodiment, the APU includes a continuously variable accessory drive (CVAD) operably coupled to an engine. The CVAD can include a continuously variable transmission operably coupled to a generator. In one embodiment, a skew-based control system is adapted to facilitate a change in the ratio of a CVAD.
US08845483B2	System, method, and apparatus for controlling power output distribution in a hybrid power train A system includes a hybrid power train including an engine, a first electrical torque provider, and a second electrical torque provider. The system further includes a load mechanically coupled to the hybrid power train. The hybrid power train further includes a clutch coupled to the engine and the second electrical torque provider on a first side, and coupled to the first electrical torque provider and the load on a second side. The system further includes an electrical energy storage device electrically coupled to the electrical torque providers. The system further includes a controller that performs operations to smooth torque commands for the engine and the second electrical torque provider in response to determining that a clutch engage-disengage event occurring or imminent.
US08845482B2	Hybrid power driving system and driving method of the same A hybrid power driving system is provided, comprising an engine; a first motor; a first reducing mechanism, a second clutch, a first wheels group, a second motor, a second wheels group, a second reducing mechanism, an energy storage device, a clutch, an engine controller, and a motor controller. The motor controller may be configured to: start or stop at least one of the first motor or the second motor; and control the clutch controller and the engine controller according to a running mode of the hybrid power driving system. A driving method for the driving system as described hereinabove is also provided.
US08845478B2	Automatic transmission To disable engine braking so as to act at a given shift stage in a D range selected manually, and to enable engine braking so as to act at the given shift stage in an L range, an automatic transmission includes first and second meshing mechanisms. The transmission further includes a one-way clutch, a first linkage for meshing the first meshing mechanism in synchronism with N-to-D movement, and a second linkage for meshing the second meshing mechanism in synchronism with D-to-L movement. A rotating part permits a driving force to be transmitted from an input member via the one-way clutch with the first meshing mechanism meshed in the D range and permits a driving force to be transmitted from the input member, without transmitting via the one-way clutch, with the first and second meshing mechanisms each meshed in the L range.
US08845476B2	Multi-speed transmission A transmission of the present invention has an input member, an output member, four planetary gear sets, a plurality of coupling members and a plurality of torque transmitting devices. Each of the planetary gear sets includes first, second and third members. The torque transmitting devices include clutches and brakes. The torque transmitting devices are each selectively engageable in combinations of at least two to establish a plurality forward speed ratios and at least one reverse speed ratio.
US08845472B2	Drive transmission unit and image forming apparatus including same A drive transmission unit includes a planetary gear mechanism. The planetary gear mechanism includes an outer gear rotatably disposed on a shaft, a sun gear rotated by a power source, coaxially disposed on the same shaft as the outer gear, multiple planetary gears to engage the sun gear and the outer gear, disposed along an inner circumferential surface of the outer gear, a carrier rotatable on the same shaft as the outer gear to rotatably support the planetary gears, a contact member that contacts the sun gear as the sun gear moves in a direction of thrust due to engagement with the plurality of planetary gears, and a grease retaining portion to retain grease near a contact portion at which the sun gear contacts the contact member as the sun gear moves in the direction of thrust. The outer gear, the sun gear, and the planetary gears are helical gears.
US08845469B2	High efficiency hybrid vehicle with two planetary gear mechanisms for power derivation A power transmitting system for hybrid vehicle with first and second planetary gear mechanisms of different ratios used for power derivation: a first planetary gear mechanism (4) dedicated to low vehicle speeds and the second planetary gear mechanism dedicated (5) to the high vehicle speeds. The planetary gear mechanisms are driven in parallel by a thermal engine (1) and by an electric motor (2). The planetary gear mechanisms drive, in parallel, a differential gear (6) connected to wheels (9). Pilot shafts of the planetary gear mechanisms (4) and (5) alternatively connect and disconnect to an electric generator (3) which regulates the driving force of the vehicle by controlling resistive torque through a clutch (7). Advantages of the system include improved efficiency, reduced cost, regenerative braking and power input from an electrical grid.
US08845468B2	Friction drive belt and belt transmission system using the same A friction drive belt (B) includes a pulley contacting portion (13) which is made of a rubber composition of an ethylene-α-olefin elastomer as raw rubber in which carbon black having an iodine adsorption number of 40 mg/g or lower, and 3-10 parts by mass of short aramid fiber (14) relative to 100 parts by mass of the raw rubber are blended.
US08845466B2	Football with aerodynamic lace Lace designs for footballs are provided. The laces have geometries that improve the aerodynamic characteristics of the football during flight. Additionally, the placement of the laces on the football is selected to maximize aerodynamic performance of the football during flight.
US08845465B2	Basketball having indicia to enhance visibility A spheroidal ball includes a body having three grooves that define divisions on the ball. The ball includes a first color and a second color that contrasts with the first color. The second color may be applied in various regions, areas, or sections of the ball to enhance the visibility of the ball in use.
US08845460B1	Basketball return system The present invention is a system useful in returning a basketball to an individual by recognizing the individual's location relative to the basketball hoop. The system may further adjust its position to deliver the basketball to a person's location or the location to which the individual is moving by further recognizing the trajectory and pace of the individual, such as with the use of GPS devices.
US08845459B2	Method and system for shot tracking A method for tracking a golfer's round of golf, wherein the method comprises determining a first location of a GPS device, receiving a signal from a first golf club, recording the first location, determining a second location of the GPS, receiving a signal from a second golf club, determining the distance from the first location and the second location and recording the distance as a distance for a first shot of the golfer.
US08845454B2	Golf club or other ball striking device having stiffened face portion A ball striking device, such as a golf club head, has a head that includes a face configured for striking a ball and a body connected to the face, the body being adapted for connection of a shaft proximate a heel thereof. The face has a thickened portion including an annular tapered area that tapers in thickness between an upper boundary and a lower boundary and encloses an elevated area bounded by the upper boundary. The upper and/or lower boundary defines a shape having two lobes, each with an outer edge with a convex profile, and a connecting portion extending between the lobes, such that the connecting portion is defined by two outer edges extending between the outer edges of the lobes, wherein at least one of the outer edges of the connecting portion has a concave outer profile.
US08845452B2	Golf club shaft A golf club shaft has the bending rigidity distribution and the torsional rigidity distribution satisfying the following three relational formulas: 1) S2/S1≧2.5, wherein an average inclination of the bending rigidity in an interval from 400 mm to 700 mm from the front end of the shaft is defined as S1 and an average inclination of the bending rigidity in an interval from 800 mm to 950 mm from the front end of the shaft is defined as S2; 2) 1.0
US08845448B2	Single panel golf club grip A grip and method of making such a grip configured for the handle of a golf club having a panel that is wrapped about an underlisting sleeve. The underlisting sleeve includes first and second centering indicators and the panel includes generally corresponding centering indicators. When wrapped about the sleeve, the sleeve centering indicators and the panel centering indicators are generally aligned.
US08845447B2	Golf putter attachment to lift golf balls and to prop golf putters The golf putter attachment is an apparatus that is able to grasp golf balls from hard-to-reach places and is able to prop up the grip of a golf putter. The apparatus includes a grip insert, two separate bodies, a locking mechanism, a hinge, a thumbnail opener, a suction cup, and a ball marker. The grip insert attaches the apparatus to a golf putter. The suction cup is used to grasp a golf ball by using the full length of a golf putter. The locking mechanism allows the two bodies to attach and detach from each other, which allows the two bodies to reconfigure themselves and prop up the golf putter. The thumbnail opener can separate the two bodies, and the hinge keeps the two bodies adjoined while the two bodies are separated. The ball marker is detachable component used to mark the location of a golf ball during a game.
US08845446B2	Golf swing control apparatus A swing aid for controlling the movement of a sports stick during a swing is disclosed. The swing aid includes a trailing member, a leading member, and a joining member connecting the trailing member to the leading member. The leading member and the trailing member each have an axis that intersect one another at an axis intersection point located within the joining section, the axes thereby defining an obtuse angle.
US08845442B2	Determination of spin parameters of a sports ball A method of determining spin parameters of a spot ball, such as spin axis and rotation velocity of a golf ball. The spin axis is determined solely from the trajectory of the flying ball, and the rotational velocity is determined from a frequency analysis of a signal provided by a radar, which signal comprises spectrum traces positioned equidistantly in frequency, which frequency distance relates to the spin velocity.
US08845434B2	System and method for improving the graphics performance of hosted applications A system comprises: an application/game server comprising a central processing unit to process application/video game program code and a graphics processing unit (GPU) to process graphics commands and generate a series of video frames for the application/video game; one or more back buffers to store video frames as the video frames are being created in response to the execution of the graphics commands; a front buffer to receive a video frame for rendering on a display after the video frame has been completed in one of the one or more back buffers, the front buffer outputting the video frame for display one scan line at a time at a designated scan out frequency, a subset of scan lines stored in the front buffer being associated with a vertical blanking interval (VBI); and a frame processing module.
US08845432B2	Method, apparatus and recording medium for game using touch input Disclosed is game technology, and more particularly to a method, an apparatus, and a recording medium for a game using touch input, which can more variously control the display, etc. of elements of a game screen, thereby providing games capable of employing various game schemes.
US08845431B2	Shape trace gesturing Gestures of a computer user are observed with a depth camera. A trace gesture of the computer user is identified and an action performable within an interactive interface is selected based on the shape of the trace gesture.
US08845429B2	Interaction hint for interactive video presentations An interaction hint is presented with a video segment. Upon receiving a user response to the interaction hint, a message is automatically sent to update information associated with a user profile without interrupting presentation of the video segment.
US08845428B2	Coordinating real-world gatherings to promote online community Coordinating real-world gatherings to promote an online community, the method including: encouraging participants of the online community to participate in a real-world gathering by providing incentives for the participants; promoting familiarity among the participants by providing and introducing online community titles of the participants at the real-world gathering; and providing online benefits or rewards to the participants for participating in the real-world gathering. Keywords include socializing in the real world, community building and bridging the gap between the game world and the real world.
US08845427B2	Gaming system and method of gaming A gaming system comprising: a game controller; and a housing having a display and an enclosure containing a plurality of physical objects capable of movement with or within the enclosure; and a reader that identifies an object from the plurality of objects and communicates data regarding that object to the game controller.
US08845424B2	Hand-held gaming device with configurable touch sensitive panel(s) A game controller with a communications interface includes a touch sensitive pad having a plurality of touch sensitive elements, and processing circuitry coupled to the communications interface and the at least one touch sensitive pad. The processing circuitry enacts touch pad configuration settings that correlate subsets of the plurality of touch sensitive elements to produce distinct user input locations. The processing circuitry receives touch pad input from the at least one touch sensitive pad. The processing circuitry processes the touch pad input to determine user input directions based upon the touch pad configuration settings, and then transmits the touch pad input directions via the communications interface for use as gaming input.
US08845423B1	Accessing a virtual media object within viewable location on gameboard A system, computer-readable storage medium storing at least one program, and a computer-implemented method for entering a viewable location on a gameboard having a virtual media object capable of presenting a media item within a media are presented. A game instance of a computer-implemented game is generated, where the game instance is associated with a game state of a player using a virtual gameboard. A graphical user interface displaying an exterior of one or more virtual buildings associated with the game instance is provided. A request to view an interior of a virtual structure is received via a device of the player. In response to the request, the interior of the virtual structure is displayed, including displaying a virtual media object in the interior of the virtual structure. The virtual media object is associated with a media playable to the player upon request.
US08845421B2	Game of chance on input of currency for amusement devices A method of awarding a bonus for a play session of a user of an amusement device is disclosed. The amusement device has a display, a memory and a controller. The method includes receiving, by the amusement device, an input of currency from the user. A game of chance sequence for determining the bonus is automatically initiated in response to receiving the input of currency. The game of chance sequence and the determined bonus are displayed and the bonus is applied to the play session.
US08845420B2	Autonomous agent hybrid games Systems and methods in accordance with embodiments of the invention operate an autonomous agent hybrid game including a gambling game providing a game of chance and an entertainment game providing a game of skill, where the autonomous agent hybrid game utilizes an agency module constructed to: configure an agent player profile based upon player instructions, where an agent player action during entertainment game gameplay is determined by the configuration of the agent player profile; communicate an agent gameplay gambling event occurrence based upon an agent player action to the gambling game, where the gameplay gambling event occurrence triggers an agent wager in the gambling game; and allocate a payout from the agent wager to a player profile associated with the player instructions based upon the agent player profile.
US08845419B2	Bonus jackpots in enriched game play environment Systems and methods for a providing a jackpot bonus in a gaming system A jackpot bonus element is generated in an entertainment game portion of a hybrid game and a gambling game in a gambling game portion of the hybrid game is triggered when a player initiates an encounter in the entertainment game with the bonus element. It is then determined if the player wins the gambling game triggered by the player's encounter with the bonus element in the entertainment game a payout is provided to the player when it is determined that the player has won the gambling game.
US08845418B2	Method and apparatus for bonus round play Methods and apparatus are provided for enabling a player to take a tour of a secondary game at a game machine. In one embodiment, a method is provided that includes offering to enable entry of a player into a bonus round of a game machine in exchange for a fee, receiving the fee from the player, and enabling entry of the player into the bonus round. The method further includes receiving an indication of at least one player selection during the bonus round, and determining an outcome based on the at least one player selection. In other embodiments, the method includes providing a prize to the player based on the outcome.
US08845410B2	Multi-station game machine A multi-station game machine, including at least two stations that are configured to accept player inputs, a wheel having a plurality of sections including symbols, the wheel being configured to rotate, the wheel being disposed so that a front surface of the wheel can be seen from at least two players, and a controller for controlling a first game performed by the wheel and a second game performed on the stations, wherein the wheel is configured to enable at least two players to simultaneously play the first game respectively using the stations, wherein the stations are configured such that the players bet a game value on the symbols via a bet area displayed on a display provided on each of the stations, and wherein the controller triggers the second game based on a win of the first game.
US08845408B2	Gambling game objectification and abstraction Systems and methods for configuring a gaming system. In one such gaming system, a plurality of real world engine modules are provided for a hybrid game, each real world engine module having a gambling game that is triggered by an element of an entertainment game of the hybrid game. A selection is received, from a player of the hybrid game, of a selected real world engine module of the plurality of real world engine modules, and triggering is enabled of the selected real world engine module's gambling game by the element of the entertainment game of the hybrid game.
US08845406B2	Vent sealing device and system A vent sealing device includes an elongated tubular member having an inner tube with a collar at the upper end of the inner tube, and a cap having an upper interior surface configured to receive the inner tube assembly, a lower interior surface configured to receive said outer tube, and a screen configured to remove debris positioned along the top of the assembly. A vent sealing system includes a roof attachment unit that includes an elongated base structure having an opening that includes a flexible sleeve protruding outward therefrom.
US08845401B2	Method and apparatus for processing poultry or a part thereof The invention relates to a method for processing poultry or a part thereof in a processing line, including the step of detaching and/or collecting a cartilage of the poultry's keel bone, whereby during transport of the poultry's carcass in the processing line, a cut is made in the cartilage of the keel bone, which cut is made initially transverse to the transport direction of the poultry and towards the poultry's backbone, and which cut develops from said transverse direction to eventually a direction opposed to the transport direction.
US08845400B2	Rotary grinding tool and its production method An inexpensive rotary grinding tool with reduced noise level of the grinding is provided. The rotary grinding tool comprises a metal disk having a grinding surface on at least a part of its surface and a holder for supporting the metal disk. The grinding surface has hard grains having a Mohs hardness in excess of 9 brazed thereon at a surface density of at least 20 grains/cm2. The holder has at its center a securing means for securing the holder on rotary shaft of a rotary drive unit. The holder and the metal disk are joined together to constitute the rotary grinding tool.
US08845392B2	Arrangement for grinding and a method thereof An improved grinding arrangement for grinding a required profile in a body is provided. The arrangement includes a body having at least one channel extending into the body and a grinding wheel adapted to grind the required profile in the side of the channel. In the setup the grinding wheel is arranged so that an axis of rotation of the grinding wheel forms an angle greater than 0° with a radial axis of the channel. A method of grinding a required profile in a body is also provided.
US08845391B2	Substrate polishing apparatus, substrate polishing method, and apparatus for regulating temperature of polishing surface of polishing pad used in polishing apparatus An apparatus for polishing a substrate includes a rotatable polishing table supporting a polishing pad, a substrate holder configured to hold the substrate and press the substrate against a polishing surface of the polishing pad on the rotating polishing table so as to polish the substrate, and a pad-temperature detector configured to measure a temperature of the polishing surface of the polishing pad. The apparatus also includes a pad-temperature regulator configured to contact the polishing surface to regulate the temperature of the polishing surface, and a temperature controller configured to control the temperature of the polishing surface by controlling the pad-temperature regulator based on information on the temperature of the polishing surface detected by the pad-temperature detector.
US08845384B2	Interactive play set An interactive intelligent play set, method and apparatus, is disclosed which includes a principle toy, a plurality of action figures, and/or play accessories. An intelligent play set identifies and tracks action figures and/or play accessories used by a player during a play session, provides interactions based on the specific action figures, accessories, or combinations thereof, used by a player during game play, provides interactions based on the history of how a player has interacted with the set during previous play sessions, and/or enables a player to construct new interactions between the various play pieces of the play set, using basic interactions as building blocks.
US08845375B2	Disposable life-saving garment A disposable life-saving garment for use in the event of fire, comprises a body-protecting portion and a head-protecting portion. The body-protecting portion is configured with a lining formed to enclose the body of a wearer and a cover covering the liner, the cover being made of a sealed material that can block the passage of air. A closed air passage is formed between the liner and cover. A compressed air tank is installed in a pocket of the cover and is connected to the air passage through a check valve. An intake hose supplies compressed air from the air passage of the body-protecting portion to the head-protecting portion. The head-protecting portion has a heat-resistant transparent window and a one-way outlet unit. The body-protecting portion and the head-protecting portion are made of a nonflammable material or a fire retardant material.
US08845371B2	Water jet propulsion watercraft A water jet propulsion watercraft includes a first exhaust pipe that is fixed to an engine and connected to an exhaust port of the engine. A damper section reduces vibrations from the engine. A catalytic converter unit is connected to the first exhaust pipe. The catalytic converter unit is attached to the engine through the damper section. A second exhaust pipe includes a first flexible pipe having a flexible quality and is connected to the catalytic converter unit. A water lock is fixed to a hull of the watercraft and connected to the second exhaust pipe.
US08845369B2	Vessel A vessel includes a first propulsion mechanism, at least one second propulsion mechanism, and a hull. The first propulsion mechanism is arranged to generate thrust by an internal combustion engine. The second propulsion mechanism is arranged to generate thrust by an electric motor. The first propulsion mechanism and the second propulsion mechanism are disposed in the hull. The first propulsion mechanism and the second propulsion mechanism are mutually independent. A direction of the thrust generated by the first propulsion mechanism and a direction of the thrust generated by the at least one second propulsion mechanism are the same as each other.
US08845366B2	Apparatus, system and method for composite and symmetrical hybrid electronic connectors An apparatus, system, and method are disclosed for composite and symmetrical hybrid electronic connectors. Embodiments may include a composite electronic connector 1702 having a set of signals 2402, being divisible into multiple subconnectors 1802, each having a subset of the signals 2404/2408, a harness 204 that combines the subconnectors 1802, distribution 2508 of the set of signals 2402 to the subsets of the signals 2404/2408, a symmetrical electronic connector 208, being connectable in more than one orientation, a tongue 210 within the symmetrical connector 208 having more than one contacting surface 902/1002, each having a set of contacts 404/408, mapping 2512 of the signals 2402 to the contacts 404/408 so as to achieve a correct connection independent of the orientation of the symmetrical connector 208, a cable 106 between the composite connector 1702 and the symmetrical connector 208, and switching 2518 of a power signal 2402-5 on and off.
US08845365B2	Cable header connector A cable header connector includes a cable assembly having a contact sub-assembly terminated to a cable, a ground ferrule electrically connected to a drain wire of the cable and a ground shield coupled to the ground ferrule and providing electrical shielding for the contact sub-assembly. The contact sub-assembly has a mounting block supporting a pair of signal contacts. The signal contacts extend between mating ends and terminating ends. The signal contacts are terminated to corresponding signal wires of the cable at the terminating ends. The ground shield has walls extending along the signal contacts, and has a mating end and a terminating end. The ground ferrule has a ferrule body with a drain wire slot receiving and electrically connected to the drain wire of the cable. The ferrule body engages the ground shield to electrically connect the ground shield to the grounded element.
US08845361B2	Explosion-proof electrical fitting A fitting, for terminating an electrical cable having two or more conductors, includes a substantially tubular body having a central bore configured to receive the electrical cable therethrough. A substantially tubular sealing sleeve is configured to engage a forward end of the body during assembly of the fitting to receive the two or more conductors of the electrical cable passing through the body. After receiving the two or more conductors, the sealing sleeve is configured to receive a sealing compound therein, such that the sealing compound flows between the two or more conductors during filling of the sealing sleeve. The sealing sleeve is formed of a transparent material to enable visible confirmation of sealing compound distribution and a determination that the sealing compound is free of voids or air bubbles.
US08845357B2	Securing device for securing plug of transmission cable with connector A securing device includes a first closing unit and a second closing unit. The first closing unit with two upward guide portions and a resilient pressing portion. A protrusion extends from the top of the resilient pressing portion. A fixing portion is connected to the second end of the first closing unit is formed by a wire bending downward from the second end of the first closing unit so as to be mounted to the transmission cable. The second closing unit is a box-like unit. An opening is defined through in the second closing unit so as to accommodate the first closing unit therein. A plurality of engaging holes are defined through the top of the second closing unit and the protrusion of the first closing unit is engaged with one of the engaging holes.
US08845353B2	Release device and release system and outdoor unit thereof A release device for detaching a male plug of a cable line from a female receptacle includes a holding portion, an accommodating portion, a connecting portion and an engaging portion. The accommodating portion includes a first guiding part that is configured for alignment between the accommodating portion and the male plug. The holding portion connects to the connecting portion that connects to the accommodating portion. The accommodating portion connects to the engaging portion, which includes a concave area that is configured for engaging the male plug.
US08845350B2	Switching contactor A switching electrical power contactor having a bi-blade type switch, has ferrous plates attached to the blades to increase the current carrying capacity and reduce the resistance of the switch. Flexible tangs formed at the distal end of the blades cooperate with a movable member to hold the contacts closed when the contactor is in the closed state.
US08845349B2	Connector A female contact 20 includes: a quadrangular tube 21; a curled portion 22 provided inside the quadrangular tube 21; and a curved portion 23, a projection 24 and a mounted portion 25 which are provided outside the quadrangular tube 21. The curved portion 23 is elastically displaced in a vertical direction. The quadrangular tube 21, the curved portion 23, and the mounted portion 25 are arranged so as to overlap one another when viewed from a direction orthogonal to a first wall 110 of the quadrangular tube 21. Further, the curved portion 23 and the mounted portion 25 are located within a width W of the first wall 110.
US08845344B2	Lock-release adapter and communication cable unit A lock-release adapter attached to a first connector, the first connector being put into a locked state with a second connector upon the first connector being fitted with the second connector, the locked state being released when a lock-release projection of the first connector is depressed, the lock-release adapter includes a holder fitted with the first connector, and an axial member pivotally supported by the holder, the axial member including, at one end in a direction of the pivot axis of the axial member, a projection portion that projects in a direction perpendicular to the pivot axis, the projection portion depressing the lock-release projection to release the locked state when the axial member is in a first pivot position.
US08845343B2	Array substrate for reflective type or transflective type liquid crystal display device An array substrate for a liquid crystal display device includes a substrate, a gate line and a data line on the substrate and crossing each other to define a pixel region, a thin film transistor connected to the gate line and the data line, a first passivation layer on the thin film transistor and having a first unevenness structure at its top surface, an auxiliary unevenness layer on the first passivation layer and having a first roughness structure at its top surface, and a reflector on the auxiliary unevenness layer, the reflector having a second unevenness structure due to the first unevenness structure of the first passivation layer and a second roughness structure due to the first roughness structure of the auxiliary unevenness layer, the second roughness structure having smaller patterns than the second unevenness structure.
US08845340B2	Connector and electrical connection box An electrical connection box is provided with a case which accommodates a circuit board on the interior thereof. The case has a connector provided with a synthetic resin section on which a terminal fitting connected to the circuit board is arranged. The synthetic resin section has a hood section with which a partner connector is engaged, a surrounding wall which is provided on the periphery of the hood section and forms a cavity between the surrounding wall and hood section, a locking section provided on the inner wall of the hood section, and a reinforcing rib which is provided on an area of the hood section corresponding to the locking section.
US08845339B2	Connector having a housing with a fitting guide fitted with reinforcing metal fittings To provide a highly reliable board-to-board connector whereby the state of engagement between the first reinforcing metal fitting and the second reinforcing metal fitting can be reliably maintained and also the state of electrical continuity between the first reinforcing metal fitting and the second reinforcing metal fitting can be reliably maintained, and thus the fit between the first connector and second connector is reliably maintained.
US08845333B2	Forcible entry training door system Apparatus for training the art of forcible door entry for emergency personnel such as firefighters and, in particular, a reusable forcible entry door training apparatus that allows individuals to simulate forcible entry of outward opening metal doors mounted in metal frames.
US08845332B1	Interactive height measurement system An educational and interactive system for teaching children the importance of maintaining proper nutrition in order to induce healthy growth utilizing an interactive audio system that updates a child regarding the child's height and outputs pre-recorded messages. A system having an elongate member adapted to determine accurate height measurements of a child, the elongate member having a measurement indicator extending from the top of the face of the elongate member to the bottom of the face of the elongate member, the elongate member with a series of food decals disposed at predetermined locations on the face of the elongate member.
US08845327B2	Casting abutment for a dental implant A casting abutment for a dental implant comprising: an apical socket portion, a transition portion bordering coronally on the socket portion, an occlusal portion bordering coronally on the transition portion and having an apical lower rim, wherein the occlusal portion, starting from its lower rim, is provided on its peripheral surface with an area having indentations, whose crests face the transition portion.
US08845324B2	Device for controlling regenerative burners The invention relates to a device for controlling regenerative burners used as a firing device, particularly for iron and steel product heating furnaces or for radiating tubes for continuous strip steel processing lines, according to which the supply of at least one of the fluids involved in the combustion (fuel and comburent) is carried out through a rotary injector (12) rotating by means of a rotatable actuator (M) so as to supply fluid alternately to one and then the other of the burners (B1, B2), the rotary injector (12) being placed on the comburent inlet duct (6), particularly air, and is provided to partially obstruct the supply pipe (19.1; 19.2) to the burner (B1; B2) such that one portion of the fumes from a regenerator (2.2; 2.1) for the non-operating burner (B2; B1) is led to the operating burner (B1; B2) and such that the other portion of the fumes is discharged to the stack.
US08845323B2	Method and apparatus for oxy-fuel combustion The invention comprises a method and apparatus for burning combustible fluids, such as biofuel byproducts and feedstocks, which are difficult to burn in a stable and clean manner. The method includes preheating the combustion zone prior to initiating flow of the combustible fluid and maintaining a minimum oxygen concentration in the oxidant gas.
US08845321B2	Split thread insert A split thread insert is disclosed with integral cooling channels utilized for the continuous internal circulation of cooling fluid around a molding surface of the split thread insert, wherein the molding surface forms a neck area of a preform during an injection molding process. The molding surface of the split thread insert is semi-circular with a profile corresponding with a threaded area of the preform. The split thread insert is assembled from two or more cut pieces, wherein at least one of the cut pieces includes a curved groove formed therein proximate the molding surface for forming a curved cooling fluid channel when the cut pieces are joined to form the split thread insert. The cooling fluid channel includes a flow diverter positioned therein for defining a portion of a continuous cooling fluid circuit of the split thread insert.
US08845315B2	Injection molding apparatus having a thermostat assembly An exemplary injection molding apparatus includes a first mold defining a passage therein, a second mold engaging with the first mold, working fluid received in the passage of the first mold, and a thermal conductive member engaged in the first mold and thermally interconnecting the first mold and the working fluid. The first mold and the second mold cooperatively define a molding chamber therebetween adapted to receive injected molten material therein. The thermal conductive member transfers heat from the first and second molds to the working fluid when the first and second molds are hotter than the working fluid, and transfers heat from the working fluid to the first and second molds when the working fluid is hotter than the first and second molds.
US08845313B2	Oil pump for an engine Embodiments of an oil pump for an engine have an increased pump capacity while maintaining or marginally increasing the overall physical size of the pump. In some embodiments, this increased capacity is reflected in a pump length efficiency ratio, which compares an effective gear length (LG) of first and second pump gears used in the oil pump, to an effective housing length (LH). The effective housing length (LH) is a longitudinal distance between surfaces on opposite ends of the oil pump that must be maintained for the oil pump to fit into an available space. Accordingly, the pump length efficiency ratio indicates how much of the effective housing length (LH) can be occupied by the gears. Alternatively, the pump capacity is measured using an output flow efficiency ratio, which compares a theoretical pump flow (FP) at a given gear speed (SG) to the effective housing length (LH) of the pump.
US08845312B2	Screw compressor Provided is a screw compressor, accommodating a pair of rotatable male and female screw rotors in a compression chamber formed in a casing, wherein the casing includes: an internal dividing wall that defines an inside interior space; and an outer wall that defines an outside interior space arranged outside the inside interior space The screw compressor further includes: a communication pipe member that penetrates the outer wall and extends across the outside interior space, and an end of the communication pipe member being inserted into the internal dividing wall so that the inside interior space communicates with a passage outside the outer wall. By using this communication pipe member, fluid can pass across an interior space in the casing to be fed to another interior space formed further inside.
US08845296B2	Airfoil shape for turbine bucket and turbine incorporating same A turbine bucket is provided including a bucket airfoil having an airfoil shape, the bucket airfoil having a nominal profile substantially in accordance with Cartesian coordinate values of X, Y and Z set forth in Table 1 wherein the Z values are non-dimensional values from 0% to 100% convertible to Z distances in inches by multiplying the Z values by a height of the airfoil in inches and adding the radius of the airfoil base, and wherein X and Y are distances in inches which, when connected by smooth continuing arcs, define airfoil profile sections at each distance Z, the profile sections at the Z distances being joined smoothly with one another to form a complete airfoil shape.
US08845294B2	Spacer interposed between a blade root and the bottom of a slot in the disk in which the blade is mounted Spacers interposed between blades attached to the disk of a rotor having slots and bottoms of the slots are disclosed. Each spacer is made of an elastically deformable material and at least one longitudinal segment of the spacer presents a transverse profile of arcuate shape to define two lateral contact zones.
US08845288B2	Turbine rotor assembly A turbine rotor assembly (32) comprising a turbine rotor (34) and a plurality of circumferentially spaced radially outwardly extending turbine rotor blades (36). The turbine rotor (34) has a rim (38) and a plurality of circumferentially spaced slots (40) provided in the rim (38) of the turbine rotor (34). Each turbine rotor blade (36) has a root (42) and the root (42) of each turbine rotor blade (36) is arranged in a corresponding one of the slots (40) in the rim (38) of the turbine rotor (34). Each of the slots (40) has a chocking device (50) and each chocking device (50) abuts a radially inner surface (52) of the slot (40) and each chocking device (50) abuts a radially inner surface (48) of the root (42) of the corresponding turbine rotor blade (36). Each chocking device (50) comprises a thermally insulating material (54) adjacent the radially inner surface (52) of the slot (40) and each chocking device (50) forming a space (56) between the thermally insulating material (4) and the radially inner surface (48) of the root (42) of the corresponding turbine rotor blade (36). The chocking devices (50) reduce the difference between the thermal response of the region of the turbine rotor (34) adjacent the slots (40) and the remainder of the turbine rotor (34) and therefore reduces the thermal stresses in the region of the turbine rotor (34) adjacent the slots (40) of the turbine rotor (34).
US08845286B2	Inter-turbine ducts with guide vanes A turbine section of a gas turbine engine is provided. The turbine section is annular about a longitudinal axis and includes first turbine with a first inlet and a first outlet; a second turbine with a second inlet and a second outlet; an inter-turbine duct extending from the first outlet to the second inlet and configured to direct an air flow from the first turbine to the second turbine; and a first guide vane disposed within the inter-turbine duct.
US08845275B2	Cranking pad interlock A cranking pad assembly for a gearbox of a turbomachine including a cranking pad shaft rotatably secured in a gearbox housing and engageable with a gearbox drivetrain when urged inwardly into the gearbox housing. The cranking pad shaft includes an interface for a cranking tool. An interlock pin retains the cranking tool at the cranking pad shaft and a disconnect spring is operably connected to the gearbox housing to bias the cranking pad shaft outwardly from the gearbox housing.
US08845273B2	Fluid transfer arrangement A fluid transfer arrangement comprising a duct having a first end and a second end, a pulse generation mechanism located at the first end of the duct to direct fluid pulses towards the second end of the duct in use, and a baffle located at the second end of the duct that defines an aperture having sharp edges. The sharp edges generate ring vortex fluid flow from the aperture in use. Applications include impingement heating and cooling.
US08845272B2	Turbine shroud and a method for manufacturing the turbine shroud A turbine shroud includes a body having a plurality of sides. A first inward facing groove is defined by a first side of the body, and a first seal covers the first inward facing groove to define a first fluid passage in the first inward facing groove along the first side of the body. A first inlet port through the first seal fluid communication through the first seal into the first fluid passage. A method for forming a turbine shroud includes forming an inner surface and forming an outer surface opposed to the inner surface, wherein the outer surface is configured for exposure to a hot gas path. The method further includes defining a first slot in the inner surface and extending a first seal across the first slot to define a first fluid passage in the first slot along the inner surface.
US08845271B2	Turbocharger bearing system A bearing system for a turbocharger shaft comprising a rotatable elongated cylinder with axially spaced journal bearing surfaces on the inside diameter and a thrust face on each end. A sleeve on the shaft incorporates a flange on one end that transmits thrust force to one thrust face on the elongated cylinder. A flanged collar on the opposite end of the shaft transmits thrust force to the thrust face on the opposite end of the elongated cylinder. A radially extending flange on one end of the elongated cylinder transmits thrust forces to stationary housings.
US08845270B2	Rotor assembly A rotor assembly is disclosed herein. The rotor assembly includes a hub disposed for rotation about an axis of rotation. The rotor assembly also includes at least one blade fixed with the hub for concurrent rotation with the hub. The at least one blade extends along a height axis radially outward from the hub with a root portion proximate to the hub at a first end of the height axis and an airfoil portion extending radially inward from a second end of the height axis opposite the first end. The rotor assembly also includes a sheath extending at least partially around the root portion. The sheath is pivotally engaged with the at least one blade to pivot about the height axis and allowed to weathervane to reduce noise.
US08845266B1	Automated marine container terminal and system Systems, equipment and processes involving one or more aspects such as extending the scope of automation in port container facilities, increasing port capacity within fixed land resources, increasing operational productivity, increasing safety, increasing the velocity and reliability of goods movement, increasing freight security, reducing negative environmental impacts, and/or reducing the overall cost of goods movement are disclosed. In some implementations, storage areas may be accessed by automated guided vehicles which receive and unload containerized loads.
US08845265B2	Front loader A detection link of a spill guard link mechanism is pivoted and connected to a bucket bracket in a position proximate to a bucket pivot support axis rotatably supporting a bucket and above a lower surface of a boom.
US08845263B2	System and method for moving shelving A system for moving a shelving system includes a lifting system that is operable to engage a section of a shelving system with a lifting element and to move the section of the shelving system upwardly or downwardly relative to a ground surface. The system also employs a moving device that is positionable between the shelving-system section and the ground surface when the lifting device moves the shelving-system section upwardly. The moving device also receives the section of shelving system onto a receiving area when the lifting device lowers the shelving-system section. The at least one movement component allows the at least one moving element to move relative to the ground surface. A lifting system for lifting a shelving system may include a jack and a lifting bracket that couples operation of the jack to upward or downward movement of the shelving-system section.
US08845259B2	Method of transferring a piece of cloth and a laundry apparatus for performing the method The invention concerns a method and corresponding apparatus of transferring a piece of cloth (3) from a pair of spreader clamps (4,5) to a conveyor (1) via a transverse boom, where the piece of cloth is first suspended and straightened between the spreader clamps, then delivered to the transverse boom (8,9), and subsequently delivered from the transverse boom to the conveyor. Apart from that, a straightening of the fore edge of the piece of cloth is performed, seen in the direction of conveyance of the conveyor, after its delivery from the clamps to the transverse boom has been initiated, but before it is delivered to the conveyor.
US08845254B2	Self-locking bolt nut assembly The present invention relates to a self-locking bolt-nut assembly including a bolt; a nut tightened on the bolt; and a washer provided between the bolt and the nut, wherein the nut has a counterbore being formed in the nut, and has a plurality of stop protrusions formed on the inner surface of the circumferential sidewall of the counterbored portion of the nut, the stop protrusions being arranged in a circumferential direction at regular intervals, the washer including the rotation-preventive protrusion protruded on inner circumference of the washer towards the center thereof, the rotation-preventive protrusion being inserted into the insertion guide groove; and a plurality of elastic protrusions which is protruded on outer circumference of the washer, being inclined in the direction where the nut is turned to tighten it.
US08845253B2	Threaded fastener A fastener includes an elongated body having a first end and a second end, a helical thread having a crest, a root, and flank portions formed on at least a portion of the elongated body, and at least one protrusion extending from the crest and flank portion. The at least one protrusion is an axially extending V-shape of the crest, flank portions, and root of the helical thread with a peak of the at least one protrusion having a ridge that extends radially outward from the root of the thread.
US08845251B2	Fastening devices, assemblies and related methods Fastening devices are disclosed herein with variations on how said devices resist loosening or un-fastening from a structure or structures. In some examples, the fastening devices accomplish the removal resistant condition by using a spring component engaging ridged surfaces. The spring component generally consists of a spring ring conveniently coiled to a canting position. One exemplary design is characterized by incorporating a screw element with its head underside surface being ridged and a lock element with a ridged topside surface and engaging the two ridges surfaces. Another exemplary design is characterized by a screw element having a head outer sidewall being ridged for cooperating with a bore having a ridged inner sidewall. The bore can be part of a first body or structure or a lock element.
US08845250B1	Tie down anchor apparatus and method A tie-down anchor for insertion into a stake opening in the sidewall of the bed of a pick-up truck. The tie-down anchor is constructed for releasable engagement with the sidewall, and arranged for receiving and releasably engaging at least one tie-down line. The tie-down anchor comprises a continuous, elongate flexible frame having first and second side members extending apart from a common transition point. The tie-down anchor is moveable from a first position, disengaged from a pick-up truck sidewall, to a second position, disposed through a stake opening, engaged with the pick-up truck sidewall.
US08845246B2	Machine tool A machine tool comprising a machine frame having dimensionally rigid side walls, each including top-side horizontal guide rails. A compound slide is displaceable in or on the guide rails. On the front of the compound slide is a machining unit comprising a spindle head which is vertically displaceable. A workpiece mounting unit is disposed in the space between the side walls. The workpiece mounting unit may have a workpiece table or a workpiece chucking device. In order to form an enlarged access to the work area of the machine tool, one side wall is shorter at the front than the other side wall. Further, the linear guides or guide rails mounted to the side walls of the machine frame may be aligned at an acute angle α to the vertical center plane of the machine frame.
US08845245B2	Dampened spindle cartridge and spindle adaptor A dampened spindle cartridge and a dampened spindle adaptor are provided for damping tool vibrations during operation of a machine tool. Damping media is arranged inside a cavity formed within the spindle adaptor or the spindle cartridge. The damping media may be a solid aggregate, such as steel shot or sand, or a viscous fluid, such as oil. The damping media attenuates and/or converts tool vibrations into friction and heat, thereby dissipating vibration energy generated during cutting operations performed by the machine tool and prevents reinforcement of the forced vibration.
US08845242B2	Coolant distributor A coolant distributor for use with a cutting head of a machine tool that is adapted to be rotated about a rotational axis. The coolant distributor comprises a generally cylindrical body adapted to be coupled to the cutting head about the rotational axis, the generally cylindrical body having a first end and an opposite second end, the first end being disposed adjacent the cutting head when the generally cylindrical body is coupled to the cutting head. At least one feed passage is formed in the generally cylindrical body, the feed passage having a first end disposed proximate the first end of the generally cylindrical body and a second end disposed proximate the second end of the generally cylindrical body. A deflecting element is disposed in the feed passage proximate the second end of the feed passage. An outflow passage is connected to the feed passage and disposed obliquely to the rotational axis.
US08845239B2	Shoring box and related methods A shoring box having frame supports coupled to lateral spreader bars. The shoring box is configured to accept exterior panels in a manner capable of providing vertical translation about an exterior surface of the shoring box. The shoring box is further configured to accept a plurality of interior panels in a manner capable of providing customizable shoring above and below utility lines, pipes, duct banks, and the like. In this regard, the shoring box is adapted to shore around one or more obstructions within an excavation, trench, or hole.
US08845231B2	Run-of river power plant The invention concerns a run-of-river power plant with the following components or features: at least one module or several stand-alone modules, which are arranged close to one another in the flow direction, respectively comprising at least one energy unit; each energy unit comprises a water turbine and a generator; every module includes an upstream retaining wall as well as a downstream bearing wall; an intermediate space is situated between both walls; a rake, which extends between the upper edge of the retaining wall and the upper edge of the bearing wall and covers the intermediate space; a suction channel is connected to the energy unit.
US08845227B2	Fastening assembly A fastening assembly having a tubular first coupling member; a second coupling member insertable coaxially inside the first coupling member in a first direction; and releasable fastening means for locking the first and second coupling member to each other in a predetermined axial lock position. The fastening means include: first and second engaging means formed on the first and second coupling member, connectable to each other to define a foolproof angular insertion/release position, and releasable by positioning the second coupling member in a predetermined axial position inside the first coupling member; and third and fourth engaging means formed on the first and second coupling member and connectable to each other in a further angular position of the second coupling member, different from the angular insertion/release position, by moving the second coupling member axially, from the predetermined axial position, in a second direction opposite the first direction.
US08845226B2	Feather imping pin A feather imping pin with roughened surface is described that attaches a donor feather to a receiving feather. The feather imping pin is inserted into a receiving feather shaft of the receiving feather. Feather imping is performed using the feather imping pin that connects the donor feather and the receiving feather. The feather imping pin fits inside both the receiving feather shaft of the receiving feather and a donor feather shaft of the donor feather.
US08845225B2	Fastening arrangement for a wall-supported and floor-supported element of an interior fitting of a vehicle A fastening arrangement for a wall-supported and floor-supported element of an interior fitting on the side wall of a rail vehicle is provided. A C-section rail is arranged on the side wall for receiving sliding blocks to which the element is releasably screwed. The element is provided with a shaped part which at least partially encompasses the C-section rail and extends in the longitudinal direction of the C-section rail. The shaped part is supported on at least both of its ends on the outside of the C-section rail for absorbing vertical loads and moments, and, for absorbing the longitudinal and transverse forces acting on the shaped part, the shaped part is connected to at least one sliding block which is arranged between both ends of the shaped part in the C-section rail.
US08845221B2	Clicking type dispensing container A clicking type dispensing container that can dispense the content by pressing a crown disposed at the rear end of a barrel body, forwards in the axial direction, and has a structure, including a mechanical assembly that transforms the pressing force acting on crown by user operation into rotational force, a threaded body fixed to barrel body and a threaded rod screw-fitted into threaded body, and dispensing the content by advancing the threaded rod through the threaded body when the threaded rod is turned by the rotational force transformed by the mechanical assembly. The clicking type dispensing container can produce the rotational force without depending on spring force and cam configuration only, is constructed of a fewer number of parts and can dispense a fixed amount of the content by use of a thread.
US08845220B2	Writing, drawing, painting and /or cosmetics pencil and method of producing the same The invention relates to a pencil 1 for writing, drawing, painting and/or cosmetics purposes, comprising a colored core 11 and a core holder enclosing the core 1, wherein the core holder comprises a wood-replacement material 12 which encloses the core 1, wherein the core 1 and core holder are retained such that they cannot be displaced in relation to one another, wherein the core holder has a carrying sleeve 13 which encloses the wood-replacement material 12, and wherein the modulus of elasticity of the carrying sleeve 13 is equal to, or higher than, that of the wood-replacement material and the bending strength of the carrying sleeve is higher than that of the wood-replacement material.
US08845218B2	Credential production device having a unitary frame A credential production device includes a unitary frame formed of plastic, a first processing component and a second processing component. The unitary frame includes a rear wall, a pair of side walls extending from opposing sides of the rear wall, a top wall extending from a top side of the rear wall and coupled to the side walls, a bottom wall extending from a bottom side of the rear wall and coupled to the side walls, a first device registration member and a second device registration member. The rear wall, the side walls, the top wall and the bottom wall define an interior cavity and an opening to the interior cavity. The first processing component includes a first frame registration member that is configured to cooperate with the first device registration member to place the first processing component in a known position relative to the unitary frame and the second device registration member. The second processing component includes a second frame registration member configured to cooperate with the second device registration member to place the second processing component in a known position relative to the unitary frame, the first device registration member and the first processing component.
US08845217B2	Printing apparatus A printing apparatus capable of maintaining print sheet conveying performance while keeping apparatus cost low and apparatus size small is provided. The printing apparatus includes a conveying mechanism and a print unit. The conveying mechanism includes a conveying roller which is a driving roller, a plurality of pinch rollers which are passive rollers disposed facing the conveying roller, and a plurality of pinch roller axles supporting the pinch rollers. The print unit prints onto a sheet conveyed by the conveying rollers and the plurality of pinch rollers. The conveying mechanism includes one or more first pinch roller sets including two pinch rollers and a first pinch roller axle supporting the two pinch rollers, and one or more second pinch roller sets including three pinch rollers and a second pinch roller axle supporting the three pinch rollers.
US08845216B2	Printer and printing method A printer includes a roll paper body driving mechanism that transports a medium by rotating a roll paper body on which the medium is wound, a first transport mechanism provided downstream of the roll paper body to transport the medium, a print head provided downstream of the first transport mechanism to carry out printing on the medium, a second transport mechanism provided between the roll paper body and the first transport mechanism to transport the medium, and a controller carries out control so that, in a range in which a velocity at which the first transport mechanism transports the media changes, the absolute value of a difference in an amount by which the medium is transported between transport mechanisms is larger between the roll paper body driving mechanism and the second transport mechanism than between the second transport mechanism and the first transport mechanism.
US08845215B2	Label printing apparatus A cassette is provided which includes a supply of label material and a brake. The brake has a first position and a second position. In the first position, the supply is clamped by the brake. In the second position, the supply is removable from the cassette.
US08845214B2	Conveying device and printer A conveying device includes a first feeder that rotatably supports a roll sheet and feeds the roll sheet to a conveying path, a second feeder that feeds a cut sheet to the conveying path, and a controller that determines whether a sheet fed to the conveying path is the roll sheet or the cut sheet based on the relationship between movement of the sheet fed to the conveying path and rotation of the roll sheet.
US08845211B2	Shock-absorbing mechanism for movable mirror of camera A movable mirror shock-absorbing mechanism of a camera includes a movable mirror which is rotatable between a viewfinder light-guiding position and a retracted position, a pressing portion which moves with the rotation of the movable mirror, a first shock-absorbing member which is pressed and moved by the pressing portion to absorb shock of the movable mirror when the movable mirror rotates from the retracted position to the viewfinder light-guiding position, and a second shock-absorbing member which is pressed and moved by the pressing portion to absorb shock of the movable mirror when the movable mirror rotates from the viewfinder light-guiding position to the retracted position. The first and second shock-absorbing members are mutually identical in specifications.
US08845205B2	Fiber optic adapter with integrally molded ferrule alignment structure A fiber optic adapter is disclosed. The fiber optic adapter includes a main body configured to receive a first fiber optic connector through a first end and a second fiber optic connector through a second end for mating with the first fiber optic connector. The adapter includes a ferrule alignment structure located within an axial cavity of the main body, the ferrule alignment structure including a sleeve mount and a ferrule sleeve, the sleeve mount including an axial bore and at least one latching hook extending from a center portion of the sleeve mount toward the first end of the main body and at least one latching hook extending from the center portion toward the second end of the main body, the latching hooks configured to flex for releasably latching the first and second fiber optic connectors to the fiber optic adapter. The sleeve mount and the main body of the fiber optic adapter are unitarily molded as a single piece and the ferrule sleeve is separately placed within the axial bore of the sleeve mount.
US08845204B2	Spacer for rolling bearing with low friction contribution The spacer is adapted for a rolling bearing comprising an inner ring, an outer ring and at least one row of contact rollers disposed between raceways and guiding surfaces provided on the rings. The spacer comprises opposite inner and outer portions facing one another and at least a first lateral portion extending transversally between the inner and outer portions and connected to the portions. The inner and outer portions and the first lateral portion delimit at least partly a pocket configured to receive at least a contact roller. The inner and outer portions each comprise at least a protruding means extending outwards and having a contact surface with one of the inner and outer rings.
US08845197B2	Dental machining unit with tool spindle The present invention relates to dental machining apparatus (1) for blanks (3) comprising a tool spindle (2) having an axis of rotation (2.8) and mounted in a bearing housing (1.2) disposed on the machine housing side. A force sensor (5) is also provided, which is disposed between the tool spindle (2) and the bearing housing (1.2) for the purpose of detecting the machining force acting on the tool spindle (2), wherein the tool spindle (2) can be supported against the bearing housing (1.2) directly or indirectly via the force sensor (5).
US08845196B2	Compliant bearing A first embodiment of a compliant bearing includes a main body and a bearing surface. The main body and the bearing surface may be engaged with one another via one or more bearing surface springs configured such that the bearing surface is compliant with respect to the main body. A second embodiment of a compliant bearing includes a main body and at least one bearing pad. The main body and the bearing pad may be engaged with one another via one or more pad radial and/or pad axial springs configured such that the bearing pad is compliant with respect to the main body. A sensor web may be integrated into the compliant bearing. In one embodiment the sensor web comprises at least one sensor configured as a strain gauge and affixed to a bearing surface spring.
US08845194B2	Rotary device A rotary device includes a fixed body including a shaft; a rotary body including a sleeve being configured to surround the shaft through lubricant; and first and second taper seals provided in a space between the fixed body and the rotary body in which gas-liquid interfaces of the lubricant exist, respectively, when the rotary device is operated, the first and taper seals being configured such that a lower limit of a filling ratio of the second taper seal corresponds to a predetermined range of the filling ratio of the first taper seal including its lower limit of the filling ratio, and an upper limit of the filling ratio of the second taper seal corresponds to a predetermined filling ratio of the first taper seal that is larger than an upper limit of the predetermined range and lower than an upper limit of the first taper seal.
US08845193B2	Radial foil bearing The radial foil bearing includes a top foil, a back foil, and a bearing housing accommodating the top and back foils, and supports a rotary shaft. Engagement grooves are formed on both side surfaces of the bearing housing to extend from the outer circumferential edge to the inner circumferential edge of the side surface. Notches are formed in circumferential edges on both sides of the back foil. A locking member is locked into the engagement grooves of the bearing housing and the notches of the back foil, and includes a pair of engagement legs engaging with the engagement grooves and the notches, and a connection portion connecting the engagement legs together to be disposed near one ends of the engagement legs.
US08845192B1	Rigid reclosure on flexible packaging The rigid reclosure device allows reclosing a flexible packaging of packaged goods (dry, granular, powder or liquid products). A lid with neck contacts a base and shoulder to seal the packaging to limit the removal of the contents from the packaging. The base fixedly attaches to the packaging, which may be a flexible packaging, to seal the packaging when the lid is in the closed position. Retention fingers of the lid and the base engage each other to secure the lid in the closed position. An access tab provides access to the lid to allow the user to open the sealing head to gain access to the contents of the packaging. The access tab may provide a child resistant design depending upon the contents of the packaging. A scoop may also be stored on the lid.
US08845191B2	Compound 6D-offset simulating phantom and quality assurance program for precision image-guided radiotherapy and radiosurgery This invention provides a device for checking the performance of an image-guided radiation therapy (IGRT) apparatus. The device (referred to here as a phantom) has a central body with detectable markers, rotatably suspended on a ball joint so that the pitch, roll, and yaw may be adjusted. The body is secured against a base plate, which in turn may be positioned laterally, longitudinally, and vertically within the patient treatment area. Thus, the phantom can be adjusted through six degrees of freedom so as to simulate patient positioning. To perform quality control, the phantom is secured at a predetermined offset, and the position is detected by the IGRT apparatus. The robotic couch is then allowed to compensate, a second measurement is made. The measured values are compared with the predetermined offset to assess both the accuracy in detecting the position of the phantom, and the accuracy of the mechanical correction.
US08845189B2	Device identification and temperature sensor circuit An integrated circuit includes a device identification circuit and a temperature sensor diode connected in parallel from a common node. The device identification circuit includes a resistor connected to a diode-connected transistor. The device identification circuit and the temperature sensor diode are adapted to not be simultaneously operating in an ON state. A first voltage is applied to the common node to place the device identification circuit in an ON state and place the temperature sensor diode in an OFF state to identify the integrated circuit. A second voltage is applied to the common node to place the device identification circuit in an OFF state and place the temperature sensor diode in an ON state to determine a temperature of the integrated circuit.
US08845187B2	Zero heat flux temperature sensing device The invention relates to a zero heat flux temperature sensing device (100) for sensing a core body temperature of an object (113). The zero heat flux temperature sensing device (100) comprises a layer (107), a first temperature gradient sensor (105), a first heat flux modulator (103) and a heat flux modulator controller (102). The layer (107) has an opposing first side (112) and second side (108). In use the first side (112) is nearest to the object (113). The layer (107) is for obtaining a first temperature difference over the layer (107) in response to a first heat flux in a first direction from the first side (112) to the second side (108). The first temperature gradient sensor (105) senses at the first side (112) of the layer (107) a second temperature difference in a second direction. The second direction extends from a first border of the first side (112) towards a second border of the first side (112). The first heat flux modulator (103) is arranged at the first side (112) of the layer (107) and is constructed to change a second heat flux in a second direction at the first side (112) of the layer (107) in order to influence the second temperature difference. The heat flux modulator controller (102) controls the first heat flux modulator (103) on basis of the sensed second temperature difference in order to decrease an absolute value of the second temperature difference. The effect of the measures according to the invention is that the zero heat flux temperature sensing device (100) senses the core body temperature of the object (113) more accurately.
US08845186B1	Spiral spring A spiral spring (10) for the movement of a watch, includes a plurality of coplanar leaves (10a, 10b) wound into one another. Furthermore, the inner ends of each leaf are rigidly connected to a single collet (12). The leaves (10a, 10b) and the collar (12) are produced as a single part.
US08845178B2	In-line-type fluid mixer An in-line-type fluid mixer is provided, which includes a first channel-forming part defining a first inlet channel from a first inlet portion to a first passage portion; a second channel-forming part defining a second inlet channel from a second inlet portion to a second passage portion; a third channel-forming part defining an outlet channel having a sectional area that increases from a narrower portion through a flaring portion to an outlet portion, and being communicated with the first inlet channel and the second inlet channel, respectively, at an end of the narrow portion; and a whirling stream-generating part for generating a whirling stream in at least one of the first inlet channel and the second inlet channel.
US08845174B2	Energy-efficient lighting panel A light-weight and energy-efficient lighting panel is constructed from a light-transmissive and light diffusive extrusion formed to have elongated hollows, which are hollow structures or volumes between two surfaces, at least one of which is transmissive and diffusive. Light projected into the hollow flows through the hollow and part of the light is emitted through the light transmissive and diffusive surfaces. Even though the light sources are located at the edges of a panel, the surface of the panel appears to be uniformly light by light sources distribute directly behind the panels rather than along the edges.
US08845173B2	Static-free light guide plate assembly and backlight module Disclosed are a static-free light guide plate and a backlight module. The static-free light guide plate comprises an incident plane, a bottom reflection plane, a side reflection plane and an out light plane. At least one layer of optical thin film material for increasing out light effect is positioned on the surface of the out light plane. The bottom reflection plane is positioned on the metal back plate. The static-free light guide plate further comprises interconnected conductive bands positioned at the side plane of the optical thin film material, non-incident portion of the incident plane, the bottom surface of the bottom reflection plane and the side reflection plane. With the conductive bands positioned at the side surface of the optical thin film material and connected to the metal back plate, the electrostatic generated on the light guide plate is transferred to achieve the purpose of protecting the electronic device, such as LEDs.
US08845169B2	Illumination apparatus An illumination apparatus includes light sources; a light guide plate guiding lights from the light sources; a housing holding the light sources and the light guide plate; and an apparatus attachment part. The light sources are arranged around the apparatus attachment part 5, and the light guide plate 3 is provided outside the apparatus attachment part to face the housing and cover a front side of the light sources. The light guide plate includes a main light guide part guiding lights from the light sources toward an outer periphery of the light guide plate and scattering and emitting the lights to a surface of the main light guide part; and an auxiliary light guide part integrated with the main light guide part at an inner peripheral side of the main light guide part and guiding and emitting the lights from the light sources toward the central portion of the housing.
US08845168B2	Backlight assembly, method of manufacturing the same and display apparatus having the same A backlight assembly includes a light source part, a base substrate, an insulation layer, and a reflection layer. The base substrate includes a light incident surface into which the light from the light source part is incident, and a light exiting surface adjacent to the light incident surface and through which the light exits. The insulation layer is formed on the light exiting surface of the base substrate. The reflection layer is formed on the insulation layer and forms a concave pattern along with the base substrate and the insulation layer and has an opening portion through which the light exiting from the light exiting surface passes.
US08845161B2	Headlamp assembly with heat sink structure A headlamp assembly for a vehicle includes a housing for coupling the headlamp assembly to a vehicle. The housing includes a reflector and a planar heat sink is positioned therein. The planar heat sink structure includes a first surface and a second surface for supporting a circuit board, a first light emitting diode assembly, and a second light emitting diode assembly. The headlamp assembly is adapted to emit a high beam and a low beam and the headlamp assembly is completely bisected by the planar heat sink structure.
US08845158B2	Vehicle lamp having textured surface A vehicle lamp includes a light source, and a resin component disposed on the periphery of the light source. The resin component has a designed surface that can be observed from the outside of the lamp. The designed surface includes a textured surface having minute irregularities, and a projecting portion provided adjacent to the textured surface.
US08845152B2	Pole mounted enclosures for luminaires Enclosures for housing the electrical components of a luminaire at the base of a pole. In some embodiments, the enclosure is formed by two enclosure halves that are positioned around the base of the pole and mated together to form the enclosure.
US08845151B1	Light for basketball goal A basketball system having a basketball goal and a lighting system such that light is provided for the playing of basketball or other activities at night. The lighting system has a lighting apparatus and a pole with a vertical shaft and an arm. The lighting system is configured to couple to an existing basketball goal or be installed remote to the basketball goal. The lighting apparatus is configured to be lowered near to the ground by rotating the lighting system such that servicing may be done to the lighting apparatus without the use of a ladder.
US08845145B1	Apparatus and method of installation for a reflector assembly with one or more connectors A reflector assembly and method for installing into a collar. The reflector assembly includes a reflector, a frame surrounding and being coupled to a portion of the reflector, and one or more connectors coupled to the frame. Each connector includes a base portion coupled to the frame, a first finger, and a biasing portion. The first finger and the biasing portion extend in a generally upward direction from a portion of the base portion; however the first finger is angled away from the reflector while the biasing portion is angled toward the reflector. The biasing portion exerts a force on the side of the reflector when the first finger portion is compressed inwardly towards a side of the reflector. The reflector assembly is installed into a collar by inserting the reflector assembly into the collar and allowing first finger to compress toward the reflector and then away from it.
US08845139B2	Backlight assembly A backlight assembly includes a light emitting module and a receiving container. The receiving container receives the light emitting module, and includes a first frame, a second frame and a heat dissipation channel. The first frame includes a first bottom, and first sidewalls connected to the first bottom. The second frame includes a second bottom which faces the first bottom and is sealed with the first frame. The first and second bottoms are spaced apart from each other and form the heat dissipation channel therebetween.
US08845133B2	Thermal barrier and parts fixing in compact fluorescent lamps A compact fluorescent lamp (CFL) including an insulating barrier between heat sources and heat sensitive components. The heat sensitive barrier is in the form of an insulative layer of cement applied between the heat generating components of the CFL and one or more heat sensitive components of the CFL. The cement can also fix or secure various components within the lamp thereby eliminating the need for some or all of the support structure of a conventional CFL.
US08845132B2	Flat LED lamp assembly An LED-based lamp assembly with a driver assembly having a base portion rotateably engageable with the socket of a light fixture to make a first electrical contact with the light fixture. The driver assembly has an electrically conductive, retractable tip portion coupled to the base portion and that makes a second electrical contact with the light fixture. The tip portion retracts relative to the base when in electrical contact with the light fixture's socket portion. A lamp housing assembly operably connected to the driver assembly has a lamp housing connected to the driver assembly. The lamp housing is coupled to at least one substrate having at least one LED light thereon. The substrate is connected to, or is an integral part of, a heat sink that carries heat away from the substrate and/or LED light. The lamp housing assembly is rotatable relative to the light fixture to adjust the angular position of the light source.
US08845131B2	Angled light box lighting system A lighting system comprising a light box housing, a plurality of lighting units including a housing, a plurality of light emitting elements mounted on a PCB within the housing. The light emitting elements arranged on an angled surface such that the light emitting elements emit light in a sideways direction from the lighting units. The lighting units can also be interconnected in a daisy-chain configuration, such that the lighting units form a row of lighting units. The row of lighting units adapted to be mounted within the light box housing, wherein the light box housing comprises one or more rows of lighting units.
US08845127B2	LED lamp An LED lamp is disclosed herein. In one embodiment, the LED lamp comprises one LED unit arranged in a housing, a first and a second lamp cap being arranged spaced from each other on opposing ends of the housing, said lamp caps each comprising at least one contact element for connecting said LED unit with a lamp fixture. In one embodiment, said first lamp cap comprises contact breaking means, configured to electrically disconnect said contact elements of said first and second lamp caps from each other when said LED lamp is removed from said lamp fixture.
US08845125B1	Vehicle barrier system with illuminating gate arm and method The present invention is directed to a vehicle barrier system and method of use. The vehicle barrier system includes a control system adapted to pivot a gate arm between a horizontal position and a vertical position to control the flow of vehicle or pedestrian traffic in control access areas such as parking lots, or parking garages. The gate arm includes inset channels that are disposed along the longitudinal axis of the gate arm and configured to each removeably receive an array of light emitting diodes to increase visibility and alert drivers or pedestrians to the presence of a gate arm.
US08845123B2	Magnetic accessory mounts Apparatus for mounting accessories to guns. Some embodiments provide gun mounts each including a body and a magnet to magnetically couple the mount to the gun. The bodies are shaped and dimensioned to mechanically retain the accessories (which can be flash lights). The magnets are mechanically coupled to the bodies (and can be an integral portion thereof) and cause magnetic fields. Given the shapes and dimensions of the bodies, the positions of the magnets relative to the bodies and relative to the barrels of the guns when the bodies abut the barrels, the magnetic field strengths are within a range sufficient to releasably and magnetically couple the magnets and the barrels. In some embodiments the magnetic field strengths are sufficient to limit the ranges of motion of the mounts relative to the guns during the shock created by firing the gun.
US08845118B2	Illumination system and method Embodiments of the invention provide an illumination system including an outer housing. The outer housing can include at least one inlet and at least one outlet. An inner housing can be coupled to the outer housing and can include fluid apertures and a chamber. An evaporator system can be disposed within the chamber so that the evaporator system is not visible from a position outside of the outer housing. The illumination system can also include an illumination device coupled to the outer housing.
US08845115B2	Flash illumination system Systems and methods for flash illumination are disclosed. In one aspect, a flash illumination system includes sections each including a light source and a reflector. Each of the light sources includes a single light-emitting region having a first centroid and a package surrounding the single light-emitting region. The package has an exit aperture having a second centroid. The first centroid can be laterally offset from the second centroid. The reflectors include an input aperture, an output aperture, and one or more sidewalls therebetween. The input aperture is optically coupled to the exit aperture. One or more sidewalls are configured to collimate light propagating from the light source.
US08845106B2	Projector having connection member fixed to color combining optical device In addition to reflective light modulation devices, reflective polarization plates, a color combining optical device, and support bodies, a projector is provided with connection members fixed to the color combining optical device and for supporting the support bodies. Support positions of the support body by the connection members are disposed on the opposite side to the disposition position of the reflective light modulation device with respect to a plane including a polarization split surface of the reflective polarization plate.
US08845103B2	Gimbaled handle stabilizing controller assembly A stabilizing controller to balance, support and orient a device. The stabilizing controller includes a gimbal assembly positioned at the center of balance of the stabilizing controller with the device attached, A handle is disposed around the gimbal assembly. A center post is coincident with at least a portion of the centerline of the gimbal apparatus and has a longitudinal balancing axis Z. Motion about at least one of the mutually perpendicular X-axis, Y-axis, and the Z-axis is isolated from the motion of the other axes via one or more assemblies comprising resilient components.
US08845102B2	Ophthalmologic apparatus An ophthalmologic apparatus comprising: an inspection unit adapted to inspect an eye to be examined; an operation member; a first member including a recess portion and a projection portion provided on part of the recess portion; a second member which is integrally provided with the operation member and is configured to move in correspondence with tilting of the operation member while contacting the first member; and a driving unit adapted to move the inspection unit based on tilting of the operation member and to coarsely move the inspection unit in a case where the second member is in contact with the projection portion.
US08845098B2	Optical coherence tomography apparatus, method of controlling optical coherence tomography apparatus, storage medium, and ophthalmic system An optical coherence tomography apparatus includes: an acquisition unit configured to split light from a light source into measurement light and reference light, and acquire a tomogram of an eye to be examined based on interfering light obtained by interference between the reference light and return light from the eye; a positional relationship changing unit configured to change a positional relationship between the eye and an optical system including an optical path of the measurement light; and a control unit configured to control the changing unit based on a difference in slant information of the eye between two tomograms acquired by the acquisition unit.
US08845095B2	Optical element for correcting color blindness Described herein are devices, compositions, and methods for improving color discernment.
US08845089B2	Medium loading device and recording apparatus for use with roll paper A medium loading device includes: a support unit having a shaft member that is attached to each of both end sections of roll paper and a flange member; a loading portion in which the roll paper with the support units attached thereto is loaded; a temporary placement portion on which the roll paper with the support units attached thereto is placed temporarily before being loaded into the loading portion; and a transfer path for transferring the roll paper with the support units attached thereto from the temporary placement portion to the loading portion. The flange member has in a region facing the transfer path a flat surface that is in contact with the transfer path.
US08845087B1	Dynamic drying of print media in a radiant dryer Systems and methods provide dynamic radiant drying for a print media by monitoring a temperature of a test patch of colorant during the drying process. One embodiment is a radiant dryer and a control system. The radiant dryer receives a media marked with a wet colorant that depicts a sheetside of print data and a test patch. The radiant dryer includes a radiant energy source that heats the colorant based on a heating power. The radiant dryer further includes a cooling system within the interior that applies a cooling gas to the medium. The control system obtains a temperature of the test patch, determines a difference between the temperature of the test patch and a target temperature, and varies the heating power and/or an application of the cooling gas based on the difference to normalize temperatures across the medium during a drying process.
US08845083B2	Inkjet printer having dual valve arrangement An inkjet printer includes: an inkjet printhead having a first port and a second port; an ink container having an outlet port and a return port; a first ink line interconnecting the first port with the outlet port; a second ink line interconnecting the second port with the return port; an air line connected to the first ink line, the air line having an inlet open to atmosphere; a reversible pump positioned between the second port and the return port for pumping ink in the second ink line; and a dual valve arrangement including: a first valve for selectively controlling ink flow through the first ink line, the first valve being positioned in the first ink line between the ink container and the air line; and a second valve for selectively controlling air flow through the air line.
US08845081B2	Liquid discharge head A liquid discharge head includes a plurality of discharge ports configured to discharge liquid, a supply port configured to retain the liquid to be discharged from the plurality of discharge ports, a first pressure chamber including a first energy generation element to discharge a predetermined amount of liquid droplets, a second pressure chamber including a second energy generation element to discharge an amount of liquid droplets greater than the predetermined amount, a first flow path through which the supply port and the first pressure chamber communicate with each other, and a second flow path through which the first pressure chamber and the second pressure chamber communicate with each other.
US08845079B2	Liquid ejecting head and liquid ejecting apparatus including the same A nozzle portion in a recording head includes a first nozzle portion of which cross-sectional area is a first area and which is formed at the side of a pressure generation chamber and a second nozzle portion of which cross-sectional area is a second area which is smaller than the first area, which is formed to be continuous to the first nozzle portion through a step portion and of which front end portion is a nozzle opening. Further, when a cross-sectional area of an ink supply path is set to Ss, a cross-sectional area of the first nozzle portion is set to Sn, a flow path resistance of the first nozzle portion is set to Rn′, and a flow path resistance of the second nozzle portion is set to Rn, relationships of Sn/Ss≧1/3 and Rn′/Rn≦0.6 are satisfied.
US08845075B2	Mist collection device and liquid ejection device A mist collection device is adapted to collect a mist of liquid generated by ejecting the liquid from a plurality of nozzles in an ejection head, the mist collection device includes a suction section, a tube section, a collection part, an outlet section and a suction device. A suction port is formed in the suction section with the suction port being an opening having a length in an arrangement direction of the nozzles greater than a width in a direction perpendicular to the arrangement direction. The tube section is in communication with the suction section and having a hollow tube shape whose longitudinal direction is parallel to the arrangement direction. The collection part collects the mist by separating the mist from air suctioned by the suction section. The suction device is configured and arranged to generate an air flow flowing from the suction section to the collection part.
US08845073B2	Inkjet printing with condensation control Inkjet printing methods are described that create a combination of higher resistance flow areas and lower resistance flow areas to allow a vaporized carrier fluid reducing airflow to flow between a printing module and a receiver without disrupting inkjet drop placements. Removal of the vaporized carrier fluid reduces condensation.
US08845072B2	Condensation control system for inkjet printing system Condensation control systems are provided for use with inkjet printing systems that use a combination of higher resistance flow areas and lower resistance flow areas to allow a vaporized carrier fluid reducing airflow to flow between a printing module and a receiver during printing without creating observable artifacts in a print. Removal of the vaporized carrier fluid reduces condensation.
US08845068B2	Printhead alignment evaluation In one embodiment, a first reference pattern is caused to be printed with transparent ink ejected from a first printhead. A second reference pattern is caused to be printed, with a first colorant ink ejected from a second printhead, to least partially overlap the first reference pattern. The overlapping causes the second reference pattern to be visually discernible where the first and second reference patterns overlap. A background pattern, overlapping and surrounding the first and second reference patterns, is caused to be printed with a second colorant ink less dark than the first colorant ink. The printing of the background pattern causes the first reference pattern to be visually discernible where the first and second reference patterns do not overlap.
US08845059B2	Aligning print data using matching pixel patterns A method for aligning multi-channel digital image data for a digital printer having a plurality of printheads is described. A test pattern including test pattern indicia printed using individual printheads is scanned and analyzed to detect locations of the printed test pattern indicia. One of the printheads is designated to be a reference printhead, and one or more of the other printheads are designated to be non-reference printheads. Spatial adjustment parameters are determined for each of the non-reference printheads responsive to the detected test pattern indicia locations. Digital image data for the non-reference printheads is modified by designating an input pixel neighborhood within which an image pixel should be inserted or deleted, comparing the image pixels in the input pixel neighborhood to a plurality of predefined pixel patterns to identify a matching pixel pattern; and determining a modified pixel neighborhood responsive to the matching pixel pattern.
US08845051B2	Droplet ejecting apparatus and method for driving the same A droplet ejecting apparatus includes a recording head including nozzles, liquid chambers communicating with the respective nozzles and storing ink, and actuators for applying pressure to the respective liquid chambers; and a print control unit configured to generate drive signals for driving the respective actuators to eject droplets from the nozzles. The drive signal includes a first contracting waveform component for ejecting a droplet and a second contracting waveform component for further contracting the liquid chamber after application of the first contracting waveform component but not ejecting a droplet. The second contracting waveform component is output at oscillation-damping timing at which a pressure wave generated by the first contracting waveform component is damped, in a condition where an environmental temperature is high, and is output at resonating timing at which resonance with the generated pressure wave occurs, in a condition where the environmental temperature is low.
US08845046B2	Vacuum heat insulating material, heat insulating box using vacuum heat insulating material, refrigerator, refrigerating/air-conditioning apparatus, water heater, equipments, and manufacturing method of vacuum heat insulating material A highly reliable vacuum heat insulating material having excellent processability, usability and heat insulating performance and a heat insulating box using the vacuum heat insulating material are provided. A vacuum heat insulating material related to the present invention includes: a core material structured by a laminated structure of an organic fiber assembly formed by forming an organic fiber into a sheet shape and cutting an end face with a predetermined length, and having a core material opening portion formed by a through hole or a notch with cutting; a gas-barrier outer cover material containing the core material inside, having a sealing portion for sealing surrounding of the sheet-shaped organic fiber assembly and surrounding of the core material opening portion, and hermetically sealing an inside with almost vacuum status by sealing the sealing portion; and an outer cover material opening portion provided at the outer cover material under a status in which the sealing portion provided at the surrounding of the sheet-shaped organic fiber assembly and the surrounding of the core material opening portion is sealed, being a through hole or a notch which is smaller than the core material opening portion with a sealed amount, and a long fiber being equal to or longer than a length of the sheet is used for the organic fiber.
US08845044B2	Adjustable drawer divider An assembly comprising a storage receptacle includes a front panel, a rear panel, a first side panel joining the front panel to the rear panel and a second side panel joining the front panel to the rear panel. The front panel, the rear panel and the first and second side panels define a storage space within the confines of the front panel, the rear panel and the first and second side panels. A divider is located within the storage space and extends between the front panel and the rear panel and divides the storage space into storage space sections. A spring operated mechanism engages the divider to selectively maintain the divider in place in the storage space and allows for the position of the divider to be adjusted between the first side panel and the second side panel, whereby the dimensions of the storage space sections can be adjusted.
US08845041B2	Washing machine A washing machine having a coupling structure configured to economically and strongly couple component parts to each other, the washing machine including a frame forming an exterior, an upper cover coupled to an upper portion of the frame and provided with an opening unit to which a laundry is introduced, an electronic part accommodating plate coupled to an rear portion of the upper cover, and a connection unit provided at the electronic part accommodating plate and extended toward a lower direction from a lower portion of the electronic part accommodating plate.
US08845040B2	Housing for an electronic device A housing for an electronic device includes a housing body, a bottom cover, and a locking member. The housing body includes an engaging slot and a through hole. The bottom cover includes an engaging hook for engaging the engaging slot. An inner surface of the housing body or the bottom cover is provided with a positioning element. The locking member extends through the through hole, and includes an engaging portion disposed on the inner surface of the housing body, and a control portion exposed from the through hole. The control portion is operable to move the engaging portion between a locking position where the engaging portion engages the positioning element and an unlocking position where the engaging portion is separated from the positioning element to thereby facilitate assembly and disassembly of the bottom cover to and from the housing body.
US08845036B2	Signal control device The present invention is directed to a signal control device having a body with a generally cylindrical cavity having a longitudinal central axis, a first and second input, and a first and second output. Each input and output is in fluid communication with the body. The signal control device further contains a first spool with a first end and an opposite second end, each which define a recess, a central axis between the first and second ends and a through hole formed about the central axis. The signal control device also contains a second spool with a first end, an opposite second end, a second central axis between the first and second ends, and a bore. The bore has a first end opening at the first end of the second spool and has a second end opening intermediate the first and second ends of the second spool. The first spool and second spool are positioned within the body cavity so that their corresponding central axes are collinear.
US08845035B2	Vehicle wheel cover and vehicle wheel cover retention system and method for producing same A vehicle wheel cover retention system includes a wheel defining an axis and includes a wheel rim and a wheel disc. The wheel disc has a generally radially outwardly extending retention groove formed in a generally axially extending portion of an inner mounting surface thereof. The cover includes an inner portion having a central opening. The inner portion is provided with at least one wheel cover retention member having at least one tab. A center cap is provided and includes at least one center cap retention member having at least one tab. The at least one tab of the at least one wheel cover retention member and the at least one tab of the center cap retention member are both received in the retention groove to secure both the wheel cover and the center cap to the wheel.
US08845032B2	Restraining device for a car seat harness shoulder strap A restraining device eases the loading, unloading and securing of an infant/child to a car seat by holding the shoulder straps of the harness assembly away from the seating area of the car seat. A common, central body is secured to the carrying handle of the infant car seat by at least one of the at least one radial extension. Another of the at least one radial extension is used to secure the harness shoulder strap temporarily to the carrying handle while the infant/child is placed in the seating area of the car seat. The harness shoulder strap is subsequently released from the carrying handle and returned to its original position within the seating area for properly securing the infant/child to the car seat.
US08845028B2	Infant supporting device An infant supporting device incorporates a central member on either side of a seat frame that houses a reclining mechanism along with mounting locations for the seat frame, a bounce wire, a carry handle, and a seat support wire. With one movement of a recline driving mechanism, a sliding member in the seat frame pushes a second gear to disengage from a first gear of the central member, and a main body of the seat frame is then rotatable with respect to the central members within a range of recline angles. The design provides an economical, smaller, and lighter weight solution to house the main features of the infant supporting device.
US08845024B2	Chair back with lumbar and pelvic supports An office chair is provided having a back assembly which is configured to provide supplemental support to the back of a chair occupant in addition to the support provided by the primary support surface of the chair back. The chair back includes a lumbar support unit having a lumbar support pad wherein asymmetric support is provided to the left and right halves of the lumbar pad. As such, the asymmetric support loads are independently adjustable to more comfortably support a chair occupant. The chair back also includes a pelvic support pad which is disposed vertically adjacent to the lumbar support.
US08845020B2	Vehicle seat A cushion is arranged on a frame member and covered by a cover. Also, a support member is attached to the frame member and extends in a vertical direction when a seat back is in an upright position, and an attaching portion to which a portion of the cover attaches is provided on the support member. The support member supports the cushion on the frame member, and the portion of the cover is attached tucked in to the attaching portion.
US08845019B2	Folding type seat A folding type seat of the present invention includes a body section supporting bracket, supporting a body section of a reclining mechanism, and a passive section supporting bracket, supporting a passive section of the reclining mechanism, which are located inward of external surfaces of a seat cushion or a seat back at positions spaced therefrom by predetermined distances. At least one of the brackets is provided with an impact absorbing section, which is caused to deform for absorbing impact energy imparted to a vehicle.
US08845010B2	Hood assembly for a vehicle and method of aligning front end assembly components for a vehicle A hood assembly for a vehicle includes a hood having a top side and an underside. Also included is a hood latch-striker reinforcement plate operably coupled to the underside of the hood and having a retaining recess. Further included is at least a portion of a centering tool removably disposed within the retaining recess and extending downwardly away from the underside of the hood. Yet further included is a centering bracket operably coupled to a top support member of a positioning and reinforcement structure and having an aperture configured to receive the centering tool therein for locating the positioning and reinforcement structure to the hood.
US08845008B1	Wind deflector for a tank trailer A wind deflector assembly formed about or part of a hatch assembly surrounding an access port of a tank trailer to control wind flow about the hatch assembly to reduce wind drag on the tank trailer. The wind deflector assembly includes a first downwardly forwardly directed smooth surface extending from the hatch assembly toward the front end of the tank trailer and preferably includes a second smooth surface extending downwardly rearwardly from the hatch assembly toward the rear end of the tank trailer. An intervening opening is formed between the spaced wind deflecting surfaces for receiving the access port therein and maybe covered by a smooth closure member.
US08845007B2	Drag reducing device A drag reducing device includes an air flow turning component having a curved surface adapted to turn air flow passing over the curved surface, a first mounting component for connecting the air flow turning component to a rear door of the vehicle, and a second mounting component for connecting the air flow turning component to one of the opposite side walls of the vehicle. The mounting components are configured so that the air flow component is automatically in a deployed position when the rear door is closed, so the air flow turning component turns air flow passing along the side the vehicle inward to thereby reduce drag. The mounting components are further configured so that the air flow component is automatically stowed between the rear door and the vehicle side wall when the door is fully opened. The air turning component is sized for a minimal prominence when stowed.
US08845003B2	Snap-in fastener A snap-in fastener is provided for securing a vehicle component to a vehicle structure. The fastener comprises a base having a longitudinal axis, a first leg extending downwardly and outwardly from the base and configured to apply a force to the vehicle structure in a first direction, and a second leg extending downwardly from the base and configured to apply a force to the vehicle structure in a second direction that is substantially opposite the first direction. The first leg may have a first portion extending from the base at a first angle relative to the longitudinal axis and a second portion extending from the first portion at a second angle relative to the longitudinal axis that is different than the first angle. The first leg may also have a foot having a contact surface with an inwardly extending profile for engaging an edge of the vehicle structure.
US08845000B2	Vehicle sun visor A vehicle sun visor includes a sun visor body, a support shaft mounted on a ceiling surface of a vehicle cabin and configured to support the sun visor body at a turning center position of the sun visor body such that the sun visor body is turnable between a storage position at which the sun visor body is oriented along the ceiling surface of the vehicle cabin and a use position at which the sun visor body is able to block light, a damper configured to apply braking force at the time when the sun visor body turns, and a slide mechanism configured to hold the sun visor body such that the sun visor body is slidable in an axial direction of the support shaft with respect to the support shaft.
US08844992B1	Vehicle, a clip assembly for the vehicle, and a method of manufacturing the clip assembly A vehicle, a clip assembly for the vehicle and a method of manufacturing the clip assembly are disclosed. The clip assembly includes a first housing and a second housing attached to the first housing to define a pre-deployed position and detached from the first housing to define a deployed position. The clip assembly also includes a strap formed of a plurality of strands braided together. The strap is affixed to the first and second housings to tether together the first and second housings in both the pre-deployed and deployed positions. The clip assembly further includes an attachment member attachable to the first housing and detachable from the first housing to adjust the attachment member relative to the first housing.
US08844991B2	Device for securing and carrying a cooler and for optionally repairing a lid of the cooler A device includes first straps configured to be secured around a container in a first direction, second straps configured to be secured around the container in a second direction, and third straps configured to be placed partially around the container in a third direction. The device also includes first handles coupled to the third straps, where the first handles are configured to be raised above the container during lifting of the container. The device further includes second handles coupled to one of the first straps, where the second handles are configured to remain secured to the first straps during lifting of the container. The device may also include multiple grommets configured to receive multiple connectors for securing the second straps to a body of the container and to a lid of the container. Lengths of at least the first and second straps may be adjustable.
US08844990B2	Advertising device for an improved golf ball retriever with magnetic element An advertising device for an improved golf ball retriever is provided. The golf ball retriever includes a hollow shaft made of a clear plastic material wherein an advertising slip can be placed into the hollow shaft by the use of a pole. The shaft may include a grip on one end for secure maneuvering of the golf ball retriever during retrieval. The shaft includes a suction cup with a hollow center on the opposite end where the grip may be located for retrieving a golf ball. The top end of the shaft also includes apertures in the shaft that allow a hanging device to be removably affixed to the shaft of the golf ball retriever. The top end of the shaft also has an end cap removably attached to the shaft to enclose the top end of the hollow shaft.
US08844983B2	Connection support device and refrigerator having the same A refrigerator including a storage container that may be selectively coupled to a refrigerator body or to a door by a storage container support device is provided. The refrigerator may include a refrigerator body having a storage compartment formed therein, a rotatable door to open or close the storage compartment, a gasket provided between the door and the refrigerator body, a storage container that may be selectively coupled to the door or to the refrigerator body, a storage container support device provided at the door, the refrigerator body or the storage container to allow the storage container to be selectively coupled to and supported by the refrigerator body or the door, and a control device provided in the door to selectively control operation of the storage container support device from an exterior of the door.
US08844977B2	Suction connection for connecting a suction pipe to a dry installed centrifugal pump A suction connection, including a first flange that includes a centrally located through hole and is arranged to be connected to an outlet of a suction pipe and a second flange that includes a centrally located through hole and that is arranged to be connected to an inlet of a dry installed centrifugal pump. The suction connection includes a first pipe socket, which is displacable in the axial direction between an operative position in which said first pipe socket disengageably connects the first flange and the second flange and thereby puts the through hole of the first flange in fluid communication with the through hole of the second flange, and a service position in which the first pipe socket is located at a distance from the second flange and thereby admit access to the through hole of the second flange.
US08844976B2	Seal assembly including a multilayered sliding member A seal designed, in particular, to connect together two ducts for carrying fluid or gas, including: a female endpiece having a first end, a male endpiece having a second end, the male endpiece being received in the female endpiece. The seal includes a sliding element situated between the first end of the female endpiece and the second end of the male endpiece, the sliding element including a stack of at least two layers of an intermetallic material, making it possible to prevent the propagation of a crack from one layer to the next layer.
US08844975B2	Hose intervention clamp and clamp system for field repair A hose intervention clamp is provided for clamping a hose/connection nipple assembly, wherein the hose/connection nipple assembly has a hose and a connection nipple having a locking slot. The hose intervention clamp includes a locking ring, an upper clamp portion, and a lower clamp portion pivotally connected to the upper clamp portion. The upper and lower clamp portions are pivotally moveable relative to each other from a first at least partially open position to a second locking position, and in the second locking position the upper and lower clamp portions define a recess for receiving the hose/nipple assembly. The locking ring is configured to be received in the locking slot when the upper and lower clamp portions are in the second locking position. A hose intervention clamp system includes a hose/connection nipple assembly having a hose and a connection nipple having a locking slot, and the described clamp.
US08844965B2	Airbag tear seam shapes A vehicle interior panel for use over an airbag includes a substrate having an airbag door region and a decorative covering disposed over the airbag door region. A tear seam is formed in the decorative covering along a path having an end portion that is non-orthogonal with respect to a hinge side of the airbag door region. The tear seam path may include a central portion that lies along a side of the airbag door region opposite the hinge side, along with end portions that form obtuse included angles with the central portion. In some cases, the end portions diverge from a perimeter of the airbag door region and may generally extend along high deployment stress regions of the covering. Tear seams formed along such a path may reduce airbag inflation energy losses associated with tearing the covering material(s) during airbag deployment.
US08844964B2	Convertible tandem stroller with a double seat transfer mechanism A convertible tandem stroller with a double seat transfer mechanism includes a wheeled rack, a pair of extension arms and a pair of chairs. The stroller is featured with the wheeled rack having a swivel mount, the pair of extension arms being connected to the swivel mount, and the pair of chairs being swivelly mounted on the pair of extension arms. The extension arms are capable of swiveling relative to the wheeled rack and positioning on a longitudinally oriented position and a transversely oriented position so as to convert the stroller from a tandem style to a side-by-side double seat style, and vice versa.
US08844961B2	Stand-up unit for stand-up wheelchairs and chairs, particularly therapy chairs The stand-up unit comprises a support a stand-up frame, which is articulated on the support and has a seat carrier carrying a seat, and a backrest carrier carrying a backrest. Furthermore, a first lever parallelogram is provided in order to maintain the backrest upright in any position. The backrest can be displaced by the first lever parallelogram by means of a rod, in order to ensure that no undesirable relative movement occurs between the backrest and the back of the user when getting up or sitting down. A second lever parallelogram controls the movement of the seat when getting up and sitting down to ensure that no relative movement develops between the seat and buttocks of the user. The stand-up unit may be provided with a base to serve as a chair, particularly a therapy chair. The stand-up unit, however, may also serve as a stand-up wheelchair, when connected to an undercarriage. Spring joint elements support the standing up.
US08844958B2	Saddle-ride type vehicle A saddle-ride type vehicle prevents attachment accuracy from causing influence on assembly especially in a case of attaching lid opening levers to grab rails and attaching lid opening mechanisms to a vehicle body frame side separately from the lid opening levers Each lid opening lever is pivotally attached to a grab rail through a pivot center shaft. Each lid opening mechanism is bolted to a stay on an upper pipe 9a. The lid opening lever is provided with an engagement portion. A curved surface portion provided on an upper end portion of a bent protrusion a projecting upward from the lid opening mechanism is inserted in the engagement portion to vertically engage the lid opening lever and the lid opening mechanism with each other. In this way, the assembly can be done without being influenced by the attachment accuracy.
US08844947B1	Mobile chair A mobile chair (10) includes a seat (11), and a tray (12) having a front edge (17) that is shorter than its rear edge (18). A caster assembly (14) is carried by the tray (12) at the front and rear corners of the tray (12). A brace assembly (13) attaches the seat (11) to the tray (12) and includes a tube portion (27) attached to the tray (12) between the caster assemblies (14) at the front corners of the tray (12) and tube portions (34) attached to the tray (12) near the rear corners.
US08844946B2	Rotating assembly A synchronized rotating wheel assembly for a recreational device having wheels is disclosed. The assembly includes a base plate having top and bottom surfaces, the top surface of the base plate adapted to be attached to a portion of the recreational device, a gear assembly joined with the bottom surface of the base plate, and first and second wheel assemblies respectively joined with the first and second interconnected gears. The gear assembly includes first and second interconnected gears, a mechanism for rotating the first and second gears in unison and in the same direction, and a bias spring mechanism for returning the first and second interconnected gears to a default position when the gear assembly is not under stress. The mechanism may include a third gear between the first and second interconnected gears or a belt having teeth that cooperate with both the first and second interconnected gears.
US08844942B1	Quick-load connector for a surgical tool A mechanical connector designed to connect an orthopedic tool to a handle or motor. The connector includes a locking ball and spring-load sleeve mechanism that compresses a ball into an annular groove of the tool drive shaft, locking the shaft in the connector. The tool drive shaft is released from the connector by applying a force to the housing in a proximal direction. A portion of the housing removes the locking ball from the groove of the tool drive shaft, unlocking the shaft from the connector as the housing travels in a proximal direction.
US08844940B2	Dual Size tool-bit holder A tool-bit holder (10) for varying tool-bit shank profiles comprising a hub (12) having a longitudinal bore (28) adapted for receiving a tool-bit shank (66, 70, 80). The hub (12) has a plurality of radial slots (38) communicating with the first section (30) of the longitudinal bore (28). The tool-bit holder (10) has a collar (14) fixedly attached to the hub (12) adjacent the open (29) and disposed annularly about the hub (12). A sleeve (16) is axially slidably mounted and disposed annularly about the hub (12). The sleeve (16) has a plurality of radial bores (48), each being in communication with a respective radial slot (38) of the hub (12) with a detent ball (18) disposed within each. A spring (20) is provided for biasing the sleeve (16) towards the open end (29) wherein the detent ball (18) engages an inner ramp face (46) of the collar (14).
US08844939B2	Adapter for a power tool An adapter for a power tool is disclosed which comprises a drive shaft that can be connected to an output shaft of the power tool in a rotationally fixed manner. There is a receiving connector on the power tool. On the adapter there is provided an assigned sleeve that can be pushed onto the receiving connector, and which comprises a clamping ring, which acts together with locking members in order to effect locking of the sleeve on the receiving connector when in a closed position, the clamping ring being held so as to be movable in the axial direction and being preloaded in the direction of the closed position. The locking members act together with the clamping ring in such a way that locking is effected automatically in the closed position when the adapter is pushed onto the power tool as far as the closed position, and a release of the adapter from the closed position can be effected through an axial movement of the clamping ring against its preload.
US08844938B2	Emergency sacrificial sealing method in filters, equipment, or systems A system seals a filter or equipment component to a base and will continue to seal the filter or equipment component to the base in the event of hot air or fire. The system includes a first sealing material between the filter or equipment component and the base; and a second sealing material between the filter or equipment component and the base and proximate the first sealing material. The first sealing material and the second seal material are positioned relative to each other and relative to the filter or equipment component and the base to seal the filter or equipment component to the base and upon the event of fire the second sealing material will be activated and expand to continue to seal the filter or equipment component to the base in the event of hot air or fire.
US08844937B2	Sealing device An annular sealing device for a shaft and housing that can maintain sealing properties under fluid pressure load when creep occurs in a cut portion due to thermal expansion and the perimeter is shortened. The sealing device includes a seal ring unit configured to fit within an annular groove in the shaft, and has, on the side thereof where the outer periphery is located, a sliding surface on which the seal ring unit slides on the housing; and a lip portion on the inner periphery of the seal ring. The lip portion of tip is disposed on the side of the annular groove where a groove bottom thereof is located, in such a way that the tip thereof is deformable in a direction in which the tip increases the distance between the seal ring unit and the groove bottom of the annular groove when under pressure.
US08844930B2	Method for shuffling and dealing cards A card shuffler that moves cards one-at-a-time from the bottom of a group that may be a deck in a deck-crib, to randomly designated single-card receptacles in a receiving or dealing rack, and a method for shuffling and for dealing cards. Either the deck-crib or the receiving rack is moved by a motor to align a single-card receptacle, randomly selected from among remaining empty single-card receptacles, with an outfeed slot of the deck-crib to receive each card to be moved from the deck-crib. A space is provided in the dealing rack in one embodiment, where a dealer's hand can reach cards and remove them from the dealing rack. A controller can cause the dealing rack to move so as to allow a selected number of cards to be removed by the dealer for dealing as a player hand or a dealer hand. A card reader may be included, and positions in the receiving or dealing rack of cards identified by the card reader can be stored in memory in the controller.
US08844929B2	Virtual gaming machine A gaming method includes repetitive plays simulating rolls of virtual dice by a player and at least one of a bonus feature and a progressive feature. A gaming method includes scoring dice.
US08844928B2	Dual-profile foosball foot A foot for a foosball man having a convex center portion along the operative region of the front surface of the foosball foot, and substantially straight edges, or flat planes, along the outer portions. This dual-configuration enables the foot to take advantage of the greater control in trapping, controlling and hitting the ball forward using the convex portion, and the improved control of hitting angled and bank shots using the straight edge, or flat plane, outer portions.
US08844927B2	Sheet loading apparatus, erasing apparatus, and sheet loading method A sheet loading apparatus includes a loading member which loads the sheet discharged by the discharge member, a tip support member which abuts against the leading edge of the sheet discharged by the discharge member in the sheet discharge direction, a rotation member which abuts against an upper surface of the sheet discharged to the loading member, and is rotated to transport the sheet to the stopper side, and a control section which controls a transport amount of the sheet through the rotation member based on a loading amount of the sheet loaded on the loading member.
US08844926B1	Controlling recharging to restore electrostatic holding force A method is described for controlling a printer including a transport belt having an electrically non-conducting surface adapted to provide an electrostatic holding force for transporting a receiver medium along a transport path from an upstream position to a downstream position. A charging subsystem is controlled to add charge to the transport belt or the receiver medium, thereby providing an initial electrostatic holding force. An inking subsystem positioned downstream of the charging subsystem is controlled to deposit a pattern of ink on the receiver medium. A level of charge on the receiver medium is sensed using a charge sensing device positioned downstream of the inking subsystem. A recharging subsystem is controlled responsive to the sensed level of charge on the receiver medium to restore at least some charge dissipated while the receiver medium is transported between the charging subsystem and the recharging subsystem.
US08844924B2	Sheet feeding devices, image reading devices and image forming devices A sheet feeding device configured to feed sheets, the sheet feeding device including a tray configured to receive the sheets; a separation portion configured to separate the sheets one by one; a guide portion configured to guide feeding of the sheets while regulating a position of the sheets in a width direction that is orthogonal to a feed direction of the sheets, the guide portion comprising an upstream side end portion, in the feed direction of the sheets, which is disposed above the tray and a downstream side end portion, in the feed direction, which extends further to the downstream side, in the feed direction, than the separation portion.
US08844918B1	Micro adjustable stop A micro adjustable stop is provided for use with wood working tools. The micro adjustable stop includes a base having a first adjustment rod, a support rod and a base plate, wherein the support rod and first adjustment rod coupled to a wood working tool on one end of the support rod and the first adjustment rod and the base plate coupled at an opposing end of the support rod and the first adjustment rod. The micro adjustable stop includes a second adjustment rod with a stop coupled at one end of the second adjustment rod. Additionally, the micro adjustable stop has an adjustment mechanism having a first end and an opposing second end, the second end comprising a micro adjustment device, wherein the first end of the adjustment mechanism is operatively coupled to the first adjustment rod and micro adjustment device is operatively coupled to the second adjustment rod.
US08844912B2	Shock absorber having compressible fluid A shock absorber for a vehicle, having a bellows piston, bellows, and a fluid as the damping medium. The shock absorber has a first partition wall, which is situated on the bellows piston, and is implemented to separate a volume area of the bellows piston from a volume area of the bellows. The first partition wall has a first opening, which is implemented to limit a fluid flow between the volume area of the bellows piston and the volume area of the bellows. The shock absorber further has a sprung mass, which is situated inside the shock absorber to influence the fluid flow inside the shock absorber.
US08844910B2	Gas strut assembly with an internal detent module A gas strut assembly includes a housing defining an interior space. A rod is coupled to the housing, and is slideably moveable between an extended position and a retracted position. A flexible member is secured in position relative to the housing. A rigid member is coupled to and moveable with the rod. The flexible member includes at least one displaceable member that moves radially away from the central axis in response to a second radial force component of a closing force when engaged by the rigid member moving from the extended position into the retracted position. The flexible member includes a multi-layered structure that changes shape in response to a change in temperature to affect the magnitude of the second radial force component required to move the displaceable member.
US08844909B2	Gasification systems and methods for making bubble free solutions of gas in liquid Embodiments disclosed herein can introduce low amounts of gas in a liquid with fast response time and low variation in concentration. In one embodiment, a gas is directed into an inlet on a gas contacting side of a porous element of a contactor and a liquid is directed into an inlet on a liquid contacting side of the porous element of the contactor. The liquid contacting side and the gas contacting side are separated by the porous element and a housing. The gas is removed from an outlet on the gas contacting side of the porous element at a reduced pressure compared to the pressure of the gas flowing into the inlet of the contactor. A liquid containing a portion of the gas transferred into the liquid is removed from an outlet on the liquid contacting side of the porous element, producing a dilute bubble free solution.
US08844908B2	Humidifier A humidifier includes a base having a sound machine module and a humidifier module, a water reservoir in fluid communication with the humidifier module, a user interface supported by the base, and a controller in communication with the user interface, the humidifier module, and the sound machine module. The controller is configured to operate the humidifier module to provide humidified air using water contained in the water reservoir in response to a humidifier input to the user interface. The controller is also configured to operate the sound machine module to provide sound in response to a sound input to the user interface.
US08844900B2	Activation element of an electromagnetic actuating unit of a hydraulic valve An activation element of an electromagnetic actuating unit of a hydraulic valve which has an armature that is essentially cylindrical and which is arranged in a slidable fashion in the actuating unit. Also, a method for manufacturing an activation element of an electromagnetic actuating unit of a hydraulic valve. The activation element has at least one substantially cylindrical armature, one plunger rod and one magnet cone. The plunger rod and the magnet cone are embodied in one piece with the armature.
US08844899B2	Control valve A control valve includes a signal pressure passage that transmits a pilot pressure in first and second pilot chambers as a signal pressure of another device, and first and second connecting grooves that connect the first and second pilot chambers to the signal pressure passage when a spool is in a neutral position. When the pilot pressure is led into the first pilot chamber such that the spool moves, the first connecting groove connects the first pilot chamber to the signal pressure passage while the second connecting groove separates from the signal pressure passage. When the pilot pressure is led into the second pilot chamber such that the spool moves, the second connecting groove connects the second pilot chamber to the signal pressure passage while the first connecting groove separates from the signal pressure passage.
US08844891B2	Slide apparatus for vehicle and rolling element circulation unit for the same A slide apparatus for a vehicle includes first and second rails and a rolling element circulation unit including first and second cases and a plurality of rolling elements accommodated within a receiving portion that includes first and second annular receiving portions accommodating the rolling elements annularly arranged in a rolling and circulating manner. The second case includes elongated bores connected to the first and second annular receiving portions in a state where the second case is mounted at the second rail. A portion of the rolling elements is exposed from the elongated bores while being inhibited from disengaging from the elongated bores. The rolling elements exposed from the elongated bores make contact with an operating surface of the first rail and inner surfaces of the first and second annular receiving portions, and roll and circulate in association with a relative movement between the first and second rails.
US08844885B1	Fabric suspension system A suspension system for hanging fabric articles such as quilts or the like from a vertical surface such as a wall or partition. A C-shaped bar is passed through a sleeve of the fabric article which is conventionally provided for accommodating a hanger. A mounting bracket has a projecting tab which enters the opening of the bar and engages the sleeve. The article is pinned in place by its own weight in a manner which avoids making or needing holes in the sleeve, while concealing of the mounting apparatus. The mounting bracket engages the wall by adhesive or fasteners, or alternatively is suspended from a wall mounted rod from above. Optionally, an integral motion detector operates an alarm.
US08844880B1	Two-place, collective pitch and throttle control A heliplane operates with a fixed wing at high velocities, and particularly at high advance ratios, while using a rotary wing maintained in motion at all speeds. At high advance ratios, the rotor wing eventually may be rotated primarily to maintain its stability, rather than depending upon the majority of lift. Meanwhile, a collective pitch control is provided and located between pilot and copilot. A single control provides control of both collective pitch and throttle by both pilots. One pilot will have to operate the control with the left hand, while the other may use their right hand. Nevertheless, both throttles push away from the pilot, regardless of which one is in control of the aircraft, while a single collective lever is relied upon.
US08844878B2	High lift system for an aircraft A high lift system for an aircraft includes: a main wing, a flap disposed on the main wing of the aircraft that can be adjusted between a retracted position and several extended positions relative to the main wing by way of a flap actuating mechanism and a drive device, a carrier part disposed on the main wing to which the flap actuating mechanism is coupled and relative to which the flap actuating mechanism for adjusting the flap can be moved, where the carrier part is disposed on the main wing by way of a bearing device including an adjusting device with which the orientation of the carrier part relative to the orientation of the main wing can be adjusted.
US08844876B2	Simplified reusable module for launcher A recoverable module for a propulsion module configured to launch a craft into space, the recoverable module including a central body, a propulsion system configured to launch the craft, systems for commanding and controlling the propulsion system, at least one propulsion engine in subsonic flight, lift surfaces for the subsonic flight and landing gear, the lift surface including two substantially flat wings fixed with respect to the central body, arranged on either side of the central body of the module, and a stabilizer mounted articulated for rotation on a downstream end of each wing, each stabilizer including at least one pair of lower wing surface and upper wing surface flaps mounted articulated on the stabilizer or any other flap fulfilling a dynamic function.
US08844870B2	Fuselage segment, and method for the production of a fuselage segment A fuselage segment of an aircraft fuselage is provided with an outer skin and an inner skin that are spaced apart from one another by a core, wherein conduits for system installations are integrated into the core, as well as a method for manufacturing such a fuselage segment.
US08844869B2	Aircraft structural assembly and associated assembling method An assembly includes a structural wall and a composite wall extending in the extension of the structural wall and defining a second section positioned facing a first section of the wall. The assembly includes an elongated traction element received in a first passage made in the structural wall, the first passage opening out into the first section and into a cell made in the structural wall. The composite wall defines a second passage opening out into the second section and receiving the elongated element. The assembly includes a locking member added onto the elongated element. The composite wall delimits an access cavity connecting an outer surface of the composite wall to the second passage. The locking member is received into the access cavity.
US08844867B2	Baggage compartment for an aircraft and aircraft having the baggage compartment A baggage compartment for an aircraft is provided. The compartment has a housing and a baggage holder swivel-mounted in the housing. The baggage holder is moveable from a closed position into an open position with a first swivel movement to open the baggage. The baggage holder is moveable from the open position into the closed position with a second swivel movement to close the baggage. The compartment also has a swiveling device for moving the baggage holder into the open or closed position by performing the first or second swivel movement.
US08844866B2	Assemblies for external attachment of airborne sensor pods to an aircraft fuselage Sensor pod attachment assemblies are provided for attaching a sensor pod containing airborne sensor equipment to an aircraft fuselage. The sensor pod assemblies may include fore and aft pairs of attachment pylon assemblies each having a lower end attached to the aircraft fuselage and an upper end attached to the sensor pod. The fore pair of attachment pylon assemblies can include port and starboard pylon structures, and a cross-support base connected to upper ends of the port and starboard pylon structures. The aft pair of attachment pylon assemblies may include a lengthwise adjustable spar assembly.
US08844864B2	Main landing gear with rigid rear stay A main landing gear assembly for an aircraft comprising: an elongate beam pivotally coupled about its longitudinal axis to the aircraft such that the axis of rotation of the elongate beam is generally parallel to the longitudinal axis of the aircraft fuselage; a shock strut pivotally coupled at a first end to the elongate beam and coupled at a second end to a wheel assembly; a folding forward stay pivotally coupled at a first end to the elongate beam and pivotally coupled at a second end to the shock strut; and a rigid rear stay pivotally coupled at a first end to the aircraft and pivotally coupled at a second end to the shock strut, the rigid rear stay being arranged to restrain the path of the shock strut when moving between a deployed and a retracted position such that the wheel assembly is located forward and inboard in the retracted position in comparison with its location in the deployed position.
US08844860B2	Foldable rise and stare vehicle A Foldable Rise and Stare Vehicle with a single engine assembly that contains a pair of inline counter-rotating propellers. Two inline counter-rotating engines are directly connected to the propellers. Gimbal mounting the engine assembly permits thrust to be directed forward to back and left to right to control the vehicle position in the horizontal plane, when hovering. Varying the relative engine speeds controls yaw. The Foldable Rise and Stare Vehicle is adaptable as an unmanned vehicle.The vehicle collapses into a flat assembly similar to a foldable beach chair, allowing for convenient transportation.
US08844850B2	Dynamic self-cleaning downhole debris reducer A debris reducer for reducing debris within a fluid flow line having a lower screen that is secured within the flow line, the lower screen having a lower screen cage with a lower cutting portion. A debris reducer element is retained within the flow line and is moveably disposed with respect to the lower screen. The debris reducer element has an upper screen cage with an upper cutting portion. The upper and lower screen cages overlap and move the upper and lower cutting portions with respect to each other to reduce debris within fluid flowing through the flow line.
US08844845B2	Volume adjustable blow gun A blow gun includes a body with a top path and a bottom path, and a volume adjustment device is installed between the top and bottom paths. The volume adjustment device is in contact with a press rod which has one end pivotably connected to the body. The opening of the press rod is controlled by operation of the volume adjustment device so as to change the volume of the pressurized air. The press rod can also be locked at a position so that it is not activated unintentionally.
US08844844B2	Misting nozzle A misting nozzle includes a body having a hole centrally defined therein and a flange radially extending therefrom to divide the body into a connecting section and a mounting section. At least two ditches are longitudinally and equally defined in the mounting section, and each laterally communicates with the hole. A distal end of the smooth portion is formed with an abutment and a round recess centrally defined in the abutment. At least two grooves are respectively equally defined in the abutment, wherein each groove is defined along a corresponding one of the tangents of the round recess and has two opposite ends respectively communicating with the round recess and a corresponding one of the ditches. A cap is airtightly mounted onto the mounting section of the body. A funnel-shaped hole is defined in a bottom of the cavity and communicates with the recess.
US08844843B2	Spray button A spray button which is capable of spraying a content widely and decreasing the diameter of a sprayed particle. In the spray button comprising a spray button body and a nozzle body and having a rotation chamber, a spray orifice, and a plurality of spray grooves, assuming a diameter of the rotation chamber to be (D), a diameter of the spray orifice to be (Da), a width of a connection portion with the spray grooves and the rotation chamber to be (Dd), and a length from a stem-side sidewall of the nozzle body to a tip of the spray orifice to be (L), the relationships of D/Da>1, D/Dd≧5, D/L≧3 are satisfied.
US08844839B1	Sprinkler donut and method of making An accelerated cure method for making a strong, high durometer, reduced brittleness hydrated sprinkler protection device shaped like a donut by mixing water with a dry mixture of sand; Portland cement; pigment; and polypropylene homopolymer fibers.
US08844835B2	Method and system for reliably detecting structure and water system leaks A method and system for reliably detecting structure and water system leaks incorporates motion-sensing for determining whether there is activity in a building is occupied and measures humidity of the inside of the building. If there is no activity in the building, and an unexpected level of humidity or sudden change in humidity is detected, an alarm is generated and the building water system can be disabled by an electrically controlled valve. Current consumed by water-consuming and/or water vapor generating appliances can be detected and used to qualify the generating of an alarm or interruption of the water system, so that false alarms are not generated and the water supply is not interrupted due to operation of those appliances.
US08844832B2	Production process of non-contact information recording medium The non-contact information recording medium is made by forming the antenna circuit and connecting it to the IC module through connection terminals at the same time. This provides a high degree of freedom of patterning of the antenna circuit. The antenna circuit is formed on a recording substrate, in which an IC module has been embedded. A foil-bonding resin layer is formed on the connection terminals of the recording substrate, with a toner containing a binder resin by an electrophotographic method. Then a conductive foil is brought into contact with the foil-bonding resin layer to bond the foil to the resin layer, to connect the antenna circuit to the connection terminals and form the antenna circuit composed of the conductive foil.
US08844826B2	Integrated circuit transponder, method of producing an integrated circuit and method of producing a transponder In a method of producing an integrated circuit (1, 91, 131) for a transponder (2, 112) a photoresist layer (11) is applied on a first surface (8) of a semiconductor device (3). A patterned mask (14, 94) is generated by lithographically patterning the photoresist layer (11), so that the photoresist layer (11) comprises at least one first via (12, 13). The patterned mask (14, 94) comprises a second surface (17) facing away from the first surface (8). The first via (12, 13) is filled with a first bump (15, 16) by depositing the first bump (12, 13) on the first surface (8). A conductive structure (18, 19, 98, 99, 132) is formed on the second surface (17) of the patterned mask (14, 94). The conductive structure (18, 19, 98, 99, 132) is electrically connected to the first bump (15, 16).
US08844821B2	Multi-layer barcode for print on demand document management A document management method, including the steps of gathering data of a multi-page document for a first layer barcode, encoding the gathered data for the first layer barcode, writing the first layer barcode on at least one page of the document, deriving key information of the document from the gathered data; and for at least one other page of the document, gathering data of the at least one other page for a second layer barcode, encoding key information of the document and the data of the at least one other page for the second layer barcode, and writing the second layer barcode on the at least one other page of the document, such that the at least one other page of the document has its respective second layer barcode.
US08844820B2	Multi-directional optical reader for a patient support A patient support apparatus includes a patient support, a multi-directional optical reader, and a control system. The multi-directional optical reader is secured to the patient support and configured to detect a first indicia having a predetermined pattern. The control system includes a processor in communication with the multi-directional optical reader, a transmitter in communication with the processor, and a memory in communication with the processor. The memory stores an identifier associated with the patient support apparatus. The processor receives a signal from the multi-directional optical reader indicative of data from the first indicia detected by the multi-directional optical detector. In response to receiving the signal, the processor performs a set of instructions. The set of instructions performed by the processor include (i) linking the data from the first indicia with the identifier, and (ii) communicating the linked data from the first indicia and identifier to a network external to the patient support apparatus.
US08844814B2	Radio frequency identification automatic detecting system with antenna net A radio frequency identification automatic detecting system with an antenna net includes a radio frequency identification module, an enhancing surface wave-guide coaxial cable structure including a coaxial cable having at least one aperture region without an outer conducting layer, a receiving apparatus having a plurality of receiving spaces and a plurality of extension wires disposed adjacent to the receiving spaces and coupled or connected to the outer conducting layer of the coaxial cable. The electromagnetic field is formed in nearby regions adjacent to the receiving spaces because the electromagnetic wave caused by the current generated from the radio frequency identification module is transmitted by the outer conducting layer and extension wires. The radio frequency identification electronic tag on the object is triggered automatically when the object is moved toward or moved out from the respective receiving space such that the automatic detecting effect is achieved.
US08844811B1	System and method for controlling locks A system and method for opening locks, primarily door locks like the locks on hotel room doors using a handheld mobile device and a QR code. A mobile user can be provided with a QR code either via email or from a mobile phone application (App.). The QRC will be their room key. The handheld mobile device will display the QRC on its display. A QRC scanner is connected to the door lock through a processor that can decode the QRC. The processor sends a command to the door lock to open when the proper QRC is decoded.
US08844809B2	Check cashing banking system A card actuated automated banking machine (152, 198, 200) includes a plurality of transaction function devices. The transaction function devices include a card reader (170), a printer (174), a bill dispenser (176), a display (182), a check imaging device (186), and at least one processor (190). The machine is operative, responsive to receiving a check and certification data, to dispense cash in exchange for the check. The person presenting the check to the machine need not provide user identifying inputs through input devices of the machine in order to receive cash for the check. Furthermore, prior to accepting the check as a payment, the person can communicate with at least one computer (204) through at least one consumer interface device (208) to verify that the check is payable for the check amount.
US08844808B2	Cash till load cell A cash till having a drawer (2) with a plurality of compartments (4) for storing coins, notes or vouchers. Each compartment (4) has an associated load cell (6), which produces a signal that is proportional to the weight of the compartment contents. The signal is provided to a monitoring apparatus (10) that takes readings from the load cell (6) while the till drawer (2) is closed. If a preceding reading is within a threshold amount of the current reading, then the preceding reading is stored as a verified value. The method removes jitter and drift in the signals produced by the load cells (6) of the cash till.
US08844801B2	Identification and trace of items within an assembly or manufacturing process An apparatus, system, and method are disclosed for identifying and tracing of items within an assembly or manufacturing process. An individual item identifier (“ID”) is assigned to an item during one or more of an initial assembly step and a manufacturing step. A surface of the item is read to determine a first surface profile of the item which is associated with the individual item ID. The first surface profile and the individual item ID are stored in a database. The surface of the item is read to determine a second surface profile of the item after each manufacturing or assembling process step in which the surface of the item is manipulated. The second surface profile is compared with the first surface profile and the second surface profile is associated with the individual item ID in response to a mismatch between the first surface profile and the second surface profile.
US08844799B2	Cup insulating insert and method An cup insulating insert is provided that is adapted for placement between a container and an outer base sheet. The insert includes a plurality of spaced-apart fingers for separating the container from the base sheet and creating an air gap therebetween. The insert has void spaces or air gaps between the fingers that are sized such that, when a plurality of inserts are formed from a single sheet, the fingers of one insert are formed from the void spaces of an adjacent insert. Multiple inserts can be formed from a single sheet of recyclable material with substantially no waste material being created.
US08844798B2	Dual reclosable dispenser carton A dispenser carton having more than one dispenser opening, permitting two different modes of access to products or articles contained within the carton. Preferably, the dispenser openings are oriented to permit the optimal orientation of products for dispensing from each of the dispenser openings. In accordance with another aspect of the present invention, separate and independent from the first aspect yet complementary thereto if desired, the dispenser openings are provided to permit loading of articles therein in an oriented manner corresponding to automated carton-loading equipment and optionally also to permit dispensing through at least one of the openings in a desired dispensing orientation.
US08844794B2	Jig for welded bulkhead fitting Jig (10, 10′, 10″) for welded bulkhead fitting (18) to a steel material which is to be penetrated by the fitting, said jig comprising a foot (11), a holder (14) for the fitting, a connecting piece (13) between the foot and the holder. The foot (11) is provided with an on and off switchable magnet (12) and the holder (14) is height adjustable and replaceable. The angle between the holder (14) and the foot (11) is preferably adjustable.
US08844793B2	Reducing formation of oxide on solder In certain embodiments, a system includes a deposition system and a plasma/bonding system. The deposition system deposits a solder outwardly from a substrate of a number of substrates. The plasma/bonding system comprises a plasma system configured to plasma clean the substrate and a bonding system configured to bond the substrates. The plasma/bonding system at least reduces reoxidation of the solder. In certain embodiments, a method comprises depositing solder outwardly from a substrate, removing metal oxide from the substrate, and depositing a capping layer outwardly from the substrate to at least reduce reoxidation of the solder.
US08844791B2	Electrical surgical instrument with optimal tissue compression A surgical device, comprising a tissue compression device having a pair of opposing compression surfaces, a mechanical binary-output electrical switch having open and closed electrical switching states initiated and changed solely by mechanical movements, and an adjustable biasing device mechanically coupled to the switch and retaining the switch in one of the switching states until a force at least as great as a force imposed by the biasing device is imparted to the switch, wherein the switch is disposed in line with the tissue compression device to cause a proportional amount of force that is placed upon compressed tissue disposed between the opposing compression surfaces to be placed upon the switch, and the biasing device is set to an amount of force that is proportional to an optimal tissue compression force of the compressed tissue when disposed between the opposing compression surfaces.
US08844790B2	Anvil-mounted dissecting tip for surgical stapling device A surgical stapling device including a handle assembly, an endoscopic portion and an end effector is disclosed. The endoscopic portion extends distally from the handle assembly and defines a first longitudinal axis. The end effector defines a second longitudinal axis and includes an anvil assembly and a cartridge assembly. The anvil assembly is supported adjacent a distal end of the endoscopic portion and includes a dissecting tip extending therefrom. The cartridge assembly is pivotably mounted adjacent the distal end of the endoscopic portion. The cartridge assembly is mounted for pivotal movement in relation to the anvil assembly between open and approximated positions.
US08844789B2	Automated end effector component reloading system for use with a robotic system A surgical instrument. The surgical instrument includes an end effector that comprises a staple channel and an anvil that is movably translatable relative to the staple channel. A tool mounting portion is configured to interface with a robotic system and operably communicate with the end effector. The instrument further includes a first sensor that has an output that represents a first condition of a portion of the robotic system. A second sensor has an output that represents a position of the anvil. A third sensor has an output that represents a position of a reciprocating knife within the end effector. An externally accessible memory device communicates with the first, second and third sensors.
US08844787B2	Fastener driving tool A spring-type fastener driving tool includes a plunger having a blade that drives in fasteners, a spring that urges the plunger downwards and is capable of being compressed upwards, a spring compression mechanism unit that includes a drum that causes the plunger to move in a compression direction of the spring based on rotational force of a motor, a reduction mechanism unit, and a one-way clutch than prohibits reverse rotation of the motor. Reverse rotation of the drum due to the urging force of the spring is prevented by providing the one-way clutch between an input side rotating shaft of the reduction mechanism unit and a rotation output shaft of the motor.
US08844783B2	Vertical core slot dispenser and adapter for a bin A vertical core slot dispenser supports a roll of film bags wound on a hollow central core. An adapter for a bin provides mounting for at least one of the dispensers. An optional bracket has fixtures to connect lower portions of the platforms to a mounting system. A core pin has first and second ends, fits slidably within the central core and has at least one notch that extends across one of the ends. First and second guide slots are sized, shaped and located to fit slidably about the first and second ends of the core pin. At least one guide rail is located between outer edges of the guide slots. The rail is sized and shaped to slidably engage and retain the at least one notch in the core pin. At least one bag stream guide, pair of side constraints and snagging hook are attached to the bag dispenser.
US08844780B2	Convertible strap A strap for bearing the load of an object is disclosed. The strap includes a loop assembly rotatably attached to each end of a connector. Each loop assembly is a continuous loop of material, or two or more pieces of material joined together. The connector allows the strap to be placed on the shoulder of a user when transporting the object in a single-shoulder configuration. Each loop is connected to an object at a point opposite the elongated connector by an attachment having an aperture, thereby allowing the loop to move freely therethrough. The strap converts from a single-shoulder configuration to a dual-shoulder configuration, without needing to disconnect the strap from the object or removing the strap from the user, by the user extending an arm through each of the loops thereby transitioning the load of the object from the connector on one shoulder to a loop on each shoulder.
US08844779B2	Storage apparatus for vehicle A storage apparatus for a vehicle may include a rear bumper having a back beam mounted under an inner space thereof, a storage case provided in a space above the rear bumper and drawn-out/drawn-in by being sled to the outside in the state in which a load is supported by the top of the back beam, and a bumper door rotatably provided on an end of the storage case so as to open and close the storage case and formed so that a portion exposed to the outside coincides with an outer surface of the rear bumper.
US08844773B2	Water reservoir provided with a volute pump cavity and a motor support A booster pump for a coffee beverage dispenser's water inlet source, in one example, a “city water” inlet. A chamber is formed which has the diluent/water inlet and a bottom surface and a top end covered by a removable lid. The removable lid has a hole large enough for a motor to be partially seated within the chamber and the motor has a shaft with supports that is connected to a cover plate that has through holes, and a rotor below the cover plate with a set of radially oriented vanes. The hole in the lid is bigger than the cross section of the cover plate and so the motor, shaft, supports, rotors and cover plate can be pulled out as desired for easier maintenance. When the motor is seated properly in the hole of the lid, the cover plate seats properly along the edge of a cylindrically shaped pump cavity. The cover plate and the edge form a seal. The inlet for the pump cavity has a smaller cross section than its outlet and the pump cavity can have a deflection body. The outlet for the diluent or water leads to the coffee beverage dispenser device.
US08844765B2	Aerosol spray texture apparatus for a particulate containing material An outlet assembly for an aerosol assembly comprises a valve assembly and a metering member. The valve assembly comprises a valve housing, a valve stem defining a stem inlet and a stem outlet, a valve spring, and a valve seal. Movement of the valve stem from a first stem position to an intermediate stem position disengages the valve stem from the valve seal such that fluid is allowed to flow into the stem inlet and out of the stem outlet. The valve stem displaces the metering member from a first metering position to a second metering position as the valve stem moves from the first stem position to the intermediate stem position. Movement of the valve stem causes the valve stem to move relative to the metering member such that the metering member covers the stem inlet to prevent flow of fluid into the stem inlet and out of the stem outlet. The spring member displaces the valve stem such that the valve stem carries the metering member while the metering member covers the stem inlet to prevent flow of fluid into the stem inlet and out of the stem outlet.
US08844761B2	Resealable beverage containers and methods of making same Resealable beverage containers include caps that are twisted to impart translational motion of the cap to push a tear panel into the container. Cam elements are used to convert rotational movement to translational movement. The caps are preferably made of molded plastic material, and include cam elements formed on the sidewalls of the caps that engage cam followers or projections formed on the inner cylindrical surface of a socket which is formed in the lid of the beverage container. Methods of manufacturing resealable beverage containers avoid the need to form rivets and to attach pull tabs, thus saving costs and making the beverage containers more easily recycled.
US08844760B2	Storage vessel for compressed fluids A vessel for storing pressurized gas. The storage vessel may be manufactured in a variety of predetermined shapes. Plural frame members are interconnected with each other, collectively forming a lattice frame. A network of internal supports is disposed within the interior of the lattice frame, the internal supports being made of a carbon-reinforced composite material. The storage vessel has an outer shell made up of layers of carbon-reinforced composite material sheets enveloping the exterior of the lattice frame.
US08844758B1	Interlocking assembly of containers, closures, holding apparatus and methodology A comprehensive storage and packaging system solution includes designs for container, closure, and holding apparatus. Container, closure and holding apparatus are interlocked together in mated combinations with interlocking connectors at connection hubs. This storage and packaging system includes design and methodology for secure and convenient collection, sorting, storage, presentation, and flexible transport of reclosable containers and the container's content. A plurality of container portability and secure transport is enhanced with the implementation of interlocking connection hubs. A single closed container joins into an interlocking container assembly at connection hubs. Container assemblies range from a single column, row or tube to an entire three dimensional spatial interlocking matrix. Use of the connection hubs with holding apparatus devices such as tote trays and carousel disks provide capabilities for the integration of containers, container assemblies, and holding apparatus or devices within this storage system solution. Modular design of holding apparatus provides for the controlled, organized, and flexible growth of this storage system solution. Together, functionally integrated containers, closures, and holding apparatus for this storage system solution provide for a well organized, convenient, portable, and user reconfigurable collection and worksite presentation of container contents including nuts, bolts, electrical connectors, tooling, hardware, and other collectables.
US08844756B2	Portable consumables organizer The present invention is generally related containers for storing and organizing consumable and non-consumable goods.
US08844753B2	Rigid outer container for aseptic fluid transport The present invention relates to the storage and transportation of fluids, and more particularly to a rigid outer container for aseptic transport of pharmaceutical fluids. In one embodiment, a system for aseptic storage and/or transport of a fluid includes a rigid outer container including a front wall and a back wall, a main cavity inside the outer container, and an inner wall dividing the main cavity into first and second compartments. The first compartment is located between the front wall and the inner wall, and the second compartment is located between the inner wall and the back wall. The second compartment may carry a biocontainer, and ancillary equipment for the biocontainer may be stored in the first compartment.
US08844749B2	Fastening devices for explosion-proof enclosures A fastening device for fastening a cover to a body of an explosion-proof enclosure can include a bracket having a back side mechanically coupled to a bottom side at a first angle and to a top side at a second angle, where the top side includes an engagement portion, where the first angle is substantially parallel to an under side of the body flange, and where the second angle is substantially parallel to a top side of the cover flange. The fastening device can also include a cam fixedly coupled to an outer surface of the cover flange and hingedly coupled to the engagement portion. The fastening device can further include a lever fixedly coupled to the cam and having a closed position and an open position.
US08844748B2	Clamshell closure for metal drum Closure ring to retain a lid in contact with a metal drum in central C-section conforming to the contact area between a lid and the rim of a drum and further having a radially inwardly directed flange and a vertically downwardly directed flange attached to the opposite ends of the C-section. The additional flanges reinforce the top of the drum by reducing deformation when the drum is dropped and maintain the lid in contact with the drum. The invention is particularly valuable in transportation and storage of fissile material.
US08844745B2	Dispenser with a wide lid-activation button having a stabilizing rib A lid structure for use with a container for storing personal care products is disclosed. The lid structure includes a lid-activation button that when pressed allows the lid top to rotate about the lid base giving a consumer access to the contents of the container. Additionally, the lid-activation button functions so that the lid top is released independent of where the lid-activation button is pressed by the consumer. To create better and more consistent opening of the lid top portion, an inner longitudinal edge of the lid-activation button may be attached to the lid bottom via a living hinge that is formed integrally with the lid base. A strengthening rib is attached to the living hinge that keeps the main body side of the living hinge immobile and encourages the button side of the living hinge to flex when the lid-activation button is depressed.
US08844743B2	Container cap A compressible container (200) has a cap (100) configured to engage therewith. The cap (100) includes a first valve (150), preferably in the form of first and second disks (112,120), one above another, each disk having at least one hole (113,122) therethrough. The disks are rotatable with respect to one another The holes (113,122) of the first and second disks (112,120) align in a first position to create channel therethrough and misalign in the second position to close the channel. The cap (100) may also include a second valve (130) connected to the channel. The second valve (130) may comprise a ball (134) inside a conic section tube (132). The ball (134) is designed to float on the liquid (300) so that any liquid (300) attempting to exit the container cap (100) will be prevented from doing so as the second valve (130) will be closed when the liquid forces the ball (134) into engagement with the conic section tube (132).
US08844742B2	Beverage container A drinking mouth portion pointing upward is provided on a plug body of a container main body having a sealed structure. A down-pointing beverage cylindrical member is built into the container main body and has a front edge side thereof communicated with the drinking mouth portion. Provided inside a fluid passage of the beverage cylindrical member is a valve movable in accordance with a pressure difference therein. The valve is not manually opened and closed, but reacts to a suction force in the fluid passage. An up-pointing cut-out section is provided on a lower edge of the beverage cylindrical member, thus allowing one to drink up a content fluid remaining in an inner bottom section. Therefore, a relatively small number of additional parts are needed to address the spewing of a content fluid and the occurrence of a residual liquid at the time of opening the drinking mouth portion.
US08844733B2	Plate stand An inventive dish support assembly utilizes slots in a pair of panels to support dinnerware including a plate or dish. The dish support assembly may include a third member support which supports the pair of panels pivotably. The third member support may be supported by the pair of panels and another support structure. A set of equations define the most preferable shapes of the slots including an upper curved surface opposite a lower generally straighter surface with consideration of several sources of relaxation from a geometric description of the most preferable shapes. To insure a conforming capture of the supported structures, the respective slots or cut-outs may be covered with a resilient covering.
US08844731B2	System for performing a magnetic separation procedure Methods, systems, and apparatus are provided for automated isolation of selected analytes, to which magnetically-responsive solid supports are bound, from other components of a sample. An apparatus for performing an automated magnetic separation procedure includes a mechanism for effecting linear movement of a magnet between operative and non-operative positions with respect to a receptacle device. A receptacle holding station within which a receptacle device may be temporarily stored prior to moving the receptacle to the apparatus for performing magnetic separation includes magnets for applying a magnetic field to the receptacle device held therein, thereby drawing at least a proton of the magnetically-responsive solid supports out of suspension before the receptacle device is moved to the magnetic separation station. An automated receptacle transport mechanism moves the receptacle devices between the apparatus for performing magnetic separation and the receptacle holding station.
US08844730B2	Device and method for magnetic separation of a fluid A device for the magnetic separation of a fluid including first particles to be separated of magnetic or magnetizable material and second particles of non-magnetic or non-magnetizable material may include at least two magnet arrangements for generating a magnetic induction B, which are arranged in line with one another with regard to a center axis M, wherein neighboring magnet arrangements have an opposing pole arrangement and are arranged at a distance d from each other for the generation of a cusp field. The device may also include at least one conveying line for transporting the fluid, the line having a longitudinal axis extending, at least in the region of the magnet arrangements, on a plane aligned perpendicularly in relation to the center axis M between neighboring magnet arrangements. The conveying line(s) may have at least one branch downstream of the center axis M, along the transporting direction of the fluid.
US08844728B2	Shipping and display container and blank for forming same A container formed from a blank of sheet material includes, in an exemplary embodiment, opposing side walls, a front end wall, a back end wall, a top wall, and a bottom wall. An opening lip extends from a portion of the bottom of the front wall. Perforation lines extend diagonally from each end of the lip. Each perforation line extends to a side wall. Each side wall includes a perforation line extending from one of the front wall perforation lines to the upper corner of the sidewall adjacent the back end wall. Access holes are located in each side wall adjacent to the side wall perforation line. Another perforation line extends the width of the back end wall and intersects each of the perforation lines of the side walls.
US08844723B2	Child resistant package having pivoting component A multi-layered blister package includes a first panel having at least one blister pocket receiving aperture defined therein, wherein a blister pocket protrudes through the at least one blister pocket receiving aperture and retains an article therein. A second panel has at least one exit aperture defined therein, wherein the at least one exit aperture aligns with the at least one blister pocket receiving aperture when the first panel is disposed over the second panel. A third panel having at least one intermediate aperture defined therein, wherein the at least one intermediate aperture aligns with and is between the at least one exit aperture and the at least one blister pocket receiving aperture when the third panel is pivoted to a first position.
US08844713B2	Conveyor belt link with wear resistance features A conveyor belt is provided that includes a link having a leg formed of a link leg material, wherein the leg includes an outer link surface configured to face the drive surface, the link leg being configured to receive a rod. The conveyor belt may include an aperture extending through the leg, wherein the rod is disposed within the aperture. Also, the conveyor belt may include a first weld that attaches the free end of the rod to the outer link surface, the first weld comprising a first weld material and a second weld made of a second weld material, wherein the second weld covers at least a portion of the first weld and forms an outermost surface of the conveyor belt. The second weld material may be different from the first weld material, and may be more resistant to wear than the first weld material.
US08844712B2	Link or a conveyor chain, a conveyor chain made up of said links and a method for operation of said conveyor chain A conveyor chain link a main body, a top plate to which a handling product or part thereof is restable thereupon; said main body having a front portion and a rear portion; said front portion and rear portion having means to be interconnected such that one link can be connectable to another in order for the establishment of a multi-linked conveyor chain; a first guide member arrangement including a pair of rotably-supported laterally extending on opposing sides of an underneath side of said top plate, adapted to roll in the direction of movement of said conveyor chain, wherein said rollers of the first guide member arrangement are adapted to rest and rotate along a corresponding top face of a wear strip as part of a conveyor assembly support structure for the conveyor chain; a second guide member arrangement, including two rotably-supportable guide members on opposing sides of said main body, rotably about a longitudinal axis, perpendicular to the top plate, wherein the peripheral edge of the respective guide members are adapted to engage a side edge of a wear strip face of the conveyor support assembly or a similar such configured structure arrangement of said conveyor support assembly; a third guide member arrangement, including a roller member adapted to rest and rotate upon a conveyor bed of the conveyor assembly support or other similar structure of the conveyor support assembly, wherein said roller of the third guide member arrangement is laterally rotatably-supported by an axis substantially in parallel to the top plate; such that the first, second and third guide member arrangements can work independently or in combination to reduce frictional force between the contact positions of the conveyor chain with the conveyor chain support assembly, resulting in a reduced level of power required to drive the conveyor chain upon the conveyor support assembly during operation, along with reduced wear and tear of the link against the conveyor support assembly.
US08844711B2	Chain wheel arrangement for mining machines A chain wheel arrangement for chain drives of mining machines, with a chain wheel shaft, with a chain wheel, with bearing shells receiving bearings for the chain wheel shaft, with a chain wheel-side sliding ring seal and with a bearing-side sliding ring seal. In order to improve the service life of the chain wheel arrangement, at least one of the bearings, preferably that of the movable bearing system, is arranged in a bearing bush which is arranged between the bearing shell and outer bearing ring and received in the bearing shell in an axially displaceable manner. The additional bearing bush allows the necessary gap between the rotating parts and the non-co-rotating, bearing shell-side parts to remain substantially constant and to this extent to become independent of the bearing play of the respective bearings.
US08844710B2	Conveyor belt and pipe conveyor Provided is a conveyor belt (2) that includes a body rubber (21) extending in a longitudinal direction of the belt; a plurality of tension bodies (22) that extend in the longitudinal direction of the belt, are disposed in a width direction of the belt, and are embedded in the body rubber (21); and a reinforcement layer (23) that extends in the longitudinal direction of the belt and is embedded in at least one of portions within the body rubber (21), which is located between the tension bodies (22) and each of top surface and bottom surfaces of the body rubber (21), wherein the reinforcement layer (23) is formed in which a plurality of fabric members (24) extending in the longitudinal direction of the belt are continuously provided in the width direction of the belt, the side end sections (24a) of the fabric members (24) among the fabric members (24), which are adjacent to each other in the width direction of the belt are connected to each other to form a fabric joint section (25), and the fabric joint section (25) is disposed on the inner side in the width direction of the belt rather than the both side end sections in the body rubber (21), and is disposed on an intermediate section (21c) that includes the center in the width direction of the belt.
US08844706B2	Permanent magnet air heater A permanent magnet air heater has a housing with an internal chamber accommodating an electric motor rotating a fan to move air through the housing. A non-ferrous member having bores for cylindrical magnets and a steel member with a copper plate secured to the steel member are rotated relative to each other by the motor whereby the magnetic field between the magnets and copper plate generates heat which is transferred to air in the housing moving through the housing by the fan.
US08844703B2	Locking apparatus for parking brake A locking apparatus for a parking brake includes a parking lever, a parking lever spring applying a restoring force to the parking lever, a cylinder of which an oil hole is formed therein, a piston comprising a piston rod connected to the parking lever and a piston main body disposed within the cylinder, and the piston movable along length direction of the cylinder according to supplying or releasing of oil through the oil hole, a solenoid valve, a locking unit disposed within the cylinder for locking the piston when the solenoid valve is supplied electric power and for locking the piston when the solenoid valve is not supplied electric power and an emergency parking device which is connected to the locking unit and selectively forcibly moves the locking unit.
US08844701B2	Rotational coupling device with improved drive key retention structure A rotational coupling device for use as a clutch and/or brake is provided with improved retention of a drive key during shipping, assembly, and operation of the device. The device includes a rotor disposed about an input shaft. The input shaft is disposed about a rotational axis and the rotor and input shaft define opposed keyways. A key is disposed in the keyways and rotatably couples the rotor and input shaft. An armature is disposed about the axis and coupled to an output member and configured for selective engagement with the rotor. In one embodiment, the key and a support member in the device are shaped in a complementary fashion to limit radial and axial movement of the key. In another embodiment, an axial end of the key or rotor is deformed to axially align the axial ends of the key and rotor and limit axial movement of the key.
US08844697B2	Clutches A clutch assembly is disclosed having a driving plate arranged in communication with a thermal transfer medium for use in cooling the driving plate. The disclosed thermal transfer medium can include at least one conductive brush that is mounted with the driving plate and arranged between the driving plate and a separate cooled part of the clutch assembly for cooling the driving plate. The brush may also be resiliently biased for contact with the cooled part of the clutch assembly so that it brushes against it.
US08844693B2	Coupling assembly having an overrun mode and ratcheting reverse strut or radial ratchet for use therein A coupling assembly having an overrun mode and a ratcheting reverse strut or radial ratchet for use in the assembly are provided. The size and shape of the strut or ratchet and corresponding notches (i.e. geometry) of a notch plate of the assembly are specifically configured so that the strut or ratchet “ratchets” during the overrun condition. The strut or ratchet will not engage the notch plate until relative notch plate speed drops below a predetermined speed.
US08844691B2	Three-pass torque converters A torque converter includes a cover for receiving torque from a prime mover, an impeller fixed to the cover to form a housing for the torque converter, a turbine disposed in the housing for receiving torque from the impeller, and a clutch backing plate fixed to the housing and arranged to receive a force, in an axial direction, from the turbine during operation of the torque converter. In some example embodiments, the turbine includes a thrust plate for thrust engagement with the clutch backing plate. In an example embodiment, the turbine includes a turbine shell and the thrust plate is attached to the turbine shell.
US08844689B2	Carry-on wheeled luggage for photographic equipment The invention provides a carry-on wheeled luggage (1) for photographic equipment that has an interior compartment (80) deep enough to accommodate a large article of photographic equipment such as at least a 400 mm 2.8 f-stop aperture telephoto lens.
US08844682B2	Electromechanical aircraft brake with tiltable actuators The invention relates to an electromechanical brake, in particular for aircraft, the brake comprising a support carrying at least one electromechanical actuator comprising a pusher that is axially displaceable towards friction elements in order to apply a braking force to the friction elements, selectively, wherein the actuator is mounted on the support via a connection member allowing at least a portion of the actuator carrying the pusher to tilt angularly.
US08844681B2	Device for oil or fluid grease lubrication A device for oil or fluid grease lubrication, including a reservoir able to house a determined quantity of lubricant, a pump arranged to draw the lubricant from the reservoir and to feed it under pressure to a delivery port to which a lubricant distribution pipe can be connected, a control unit arranged to regulate the pump operation, and a sensor for sensing the lubricant level within the reservoir. The level sensor is an infrared sensor.
US08844679B2	Pump having venting and non-venting piston return Apparatus and method for supplying lubricant to a plurality of lubrication sites. Embodiments include a pump with venting and non-venting piston return, a pump with stirrer and direct feed mechanism, a pump with CAN system and self-diagnostics, a pump with heated housing and reservoir and a pump with stepper motor and overdrive control.
US08844676B2	Optionally extendable, runged tire-mount platform device A ladder-like access device is suited for securing to a tire of a vehicle by way of a strap, rope, chain, cable or similar structure. The device may include extendable legs to adapt its length to a range of wheel and tire sizes. A variety of structures, materials and construction methods are described and claimed.
US08844675B2	Portable ladder with a stand off device A portable ladder has two stiles interconnected by rungs. The ladder is provided with a stand off device, including two stand off arm assemblies, each being telescopically inserted into a receiving space. Each stand off arm assembly has a base part and a stand off arm interconnected by a hinge that allows the stand off arm to be pivoted between a position in alignment with the base part and an angled stand off position. The stand off arm assemblies are each configured such that—in extended position—the hinge is located outside the receiving space with the base part being located within said receiving space, and also such that—in retracted position—the base part, the hinge, as well as at least a portion of the stand off arm are located within the receiving space.
US08844674B2	Assault ladder A dual-purpose assault ladder and bridging apparatus includes a right frame and a left frame both including upper and lower frame tubes. Assault steps are connected between the right and left frames. Spanning supports connect upper frame tubes. Truss brackets secure one end of an assault step to the frame elements. Assault step support tubes are located to support the assault steps. Bridging steps are connected between the right and left frames and the assault steps. A top portion is mounted at an oblique angle slanting the top portion to position the angled assault steps substantially parallel to the ground when the ladder is leaned against a wall.
US08844673B2	Muffler for internal combustion engine A muffler for an internal combustion engine includes an outer shell, an inlet pipe, an outlet pipe, and at least one constricted part. The at least one constricted part is provided in at least one of the inlet pipe and the outlet pipe on an open side thereof opening toward an inside of the outer shell. The at least one constricted part has a cross-sectional area smaller than a cross-sectional area of the at least one of the inlet pipe and the outlet pipe, which is provided with the at least one constricted part.
US08844671B2	Apparatus for damping sound in the optical beam path of a microscope, and microscope having a corresponding apparatus An apparatus for damping sound in the optical beam path of a microscope, having an acoustic insulation housing for encapsulating a sound-emitting component, preferably a rapidly moving or oscillating beam deflection means, in particular a resonantly oscillating mirror, the housing comprising at least one optical entrance/exit opening, is characterized in that the housing, preferably the opening of the housing, is embodied and/or configured in such a way that the sound otherwise emerging from the housing is largely extinguished by destructive interference without thereby influencing the optical beam. A microscope having a corresponding apparatus is furthermore claimed.
US08844669B2	Portal wheel end A modular portal wheel end system for connection to a plurality of different axles for vehicles. The portal wheel end system includes a housing configure to be selectively coupled with any one of the plurality of different axles. A plurality of input gears are configured to be interchangeably connected to the housing about a first rotational axis. A plurality of output gears are configured to be interchangeably connected to the housing about a second rotational axis offset from the first rotational axis. Each of the gears having a different predetermined width along their respective axis. The housing includes an inner portion at least partially supporting the input and output gears and an outer ring coupled to the inner portion with the outer ring having a width corresponding to the predetermined width of the input and output gears to define a cavity surrounding the input and output gears.
US08844666B2	Motorcycle having evaporating fuel treatment apparatus A motorcycle includes a vehicle body frame having a head pipe axially supporting a steering shaft and a main frame extending rearwardly and downwardly therefrom. A down tube extends downwardly. An internal combustion engine is supported by the vehicle body frame with a cylinder extending upward from a crankcase. A fuel tank is arranged on the upper side of the main frame. An air-intake apparatus is configured to supply air to the internal combustion engine wherein an evaporable fuel storage container is configured to store evaporating fuel generated in the fuel tank and supply the evaporating fuel to an air-intake apparatus when the internal combustion engine is in operation is arranged in a space on the rear side of an upper portion of the down tube, the lower side of the fuel tank, and on the front side or on the upper side of the cylinder of the internal engine.
US08844664B1	Powered snowboard An apparatus for propelling a user over a surface. In one embodiment a rear located propulsion unit is elastically linked to a forward user platform, such as a snowboard, skis, or skateboard. Preferably, the elastic interconnection includes one or more springs.
US08844663B2	Twin engine for improving fuel efficiency and method of operating engine using the same A twin engine improves fuel efficiency in a low-load section and generates sufficient output in a high-load section by selecting a specific bank or operating all of the banks in accordance with necessity of required load. The twin engine may include a plurality of engine banks that independently operates in a unit of a cylinder block equipped with a plurality of cylinders, transmissions that are provided at the same number of engine banks and disposed between output ends of engine banks, a power controller that selectively collects the power output from the output ends of transmissions and transmits the power to driving wheels, and a driving controller that controls the operations of the engine banks and the power controller, such that the engine banks are selectively or simultaneously operated in accordance with traveling conditions.
US08844661B2	Road vehicle with an operating device housed inside a door sill of the frame A road vehicle having: a plurality of operating devices, and a frame comprising two door sills, which are oriented longitudinally, are arranged laterally on opposite sides of the frame, and have an internally hollow tubular shape, so that a seat is defined inside each door sill, in which at least one operating device is arranged inside at least one door sill in the corresponding seat.
US08844660B2	Hybrid working machine A hybrid working machine includes an engine, an assist motor configured to assist the engine, a hydraulic pump driven by the engine, an electric power accumulating unit configured to feed the assist motor with electric power, an electric-discharge electric motor configured to perform power running with electric power of an electric power accumulator of the electric power accumulating unit, an electric-discharge hydraulic motor connected to the electric-discharge electric motor, and a hydraulic circuit configured to control driving of the electric-discharge hydraulic motor. The hydraulic circuit includes a circulation circuit configured to be connected to a hydraulic feed port and a hydraulic discharge port of the electric-discharge hydraulic motor and a selector valve configured to perform such switching as to connect the electric-discharge hydraulic motor to the circulation circuit at a time of performing an electric discharge operation.
US08844659B2	Motor vehicle with electric motor A motor vehicle comprising an electric motor, at least one battery, and an electronic regulation unit connected to a potentiometer of the accelerator to regulate the power supply of the electric motor. The stator of the electric motor is rotatably mounted on two fixed supports joined to the frame of the vehicle, an axle shaft of a wheel is connected to the stator and the axle shaft of the other wheel is connected to the rotor. The vehicle additionally comprises a rotation reversing device to reverse the rotation of one of the two axle shafts of the wheels with respect to the rotation of the rotor or stator, respectively, an endothermic motor, an electric generator connected to the battery and a three way clutch to couple the endothermic motor to the generator and/or stator of the electric motor.
US08844657B2	Stand on mower with traction drive pedals A stand on mower includes a left foot pedal and a right foot pedal. Each foot pedal is spaced from the other and is dimensioned to support one of the operator's feet. Each foot pedal is biased to a neutral position generally parallel to a horizontal surface of a foot platform located generally between or behind a pair of traction drive wheels. The left foot pedal and the right foot pedal pivot independently forwardly and rearwardly to forward and reverse traction drive positions, and are connected to a pair of wheel motors respectively that rotate each of the traction drive wheels in either forward or reverse based on the traction drive positions of the foot pedals.
US08844655B2	Drill string tooling joint A joint connecting a pair of members rotatable about a common axis end to end includes a first member having a threaded end portion and a non-circular exterior surface rearwardly of the threaded end portion, a second member having a threaded socket wherein the threaded end portion of the second member can be engaged, and a non-circular exterior surface, a ground engagement sleeve having a non-circular profile on an inner surface thereof whereby the sleeve can be slidably mounted on the non-circular exterior profiles of the first and second members when such profiles are brought into alignment by rotation of one member relative to the other in a manner effective to pass torque from one member to the other by means of the non-circular profiles, a first pair of alignable holes in the sleeve and first member to receive a fastener to secure the sleeve to the first member and a hole in the second member penetrating the threaded socket and positioned to receive a fastener to secure the second member to a third member in place of the first member, the third member having a hole in a threaded end portion thereof alignable with the hole in the second member.
US08844654B2	Instrumented drill string element A drill string element including an elongate tubular body delimiting an interior surface longitudinally including at least one portion of revolution and including a first hole provided in the elongate tubular body. That first hole includes a first end opening at the portion of revolution, and in a vicinity of the first end a longitudinal axis intersecting the interior surface at an intersection location. The longitudinal axis, in projection into a first plane passing through the central axis of the portion of revolution and containing the intersection location, forms a first angle of a value that is not zero and in projection into a second plane tangential to the interior surface at the intersection location forms a second angle of a value that is not zero.
US08844652B2	Interlocking low profile rotating control device A system and method is provided for a low profile rotating control device (LP-RCD) and its housing mounted on or integral with an annular blowout preventer seal, casing, or other housing. The LP-RCD and LP-RCD housing can fit within a limited space available on drilling rigs. An embodiment allows a LP-RCD to be removably disposed with a LP-RCD housing by rotating a bearing assembly rotating plate. A sealing element may be removably disposed with the LP-RCD bearing assembly by rotating a seal retainer ring. Alternatively, a sealing element may be removably disposed with the LP-RCD bearing assembly with a seal support member threadedly attached with the LP-RCD bearing assembly. The seal support member may be locked in position with a seal locking ring removably attached with threads with the LP-RCD bearing assembly over the seal support member. Spaced apart accumulators may be disposed radially outward of the bearings in the bearing assembly to provide self lubrication to the bearings.
US08844646B2	Integrated cylinder and reversing assembly of a reciprocating pneumatic tool An integrated module of a cylinder and reversing assembly of a reciprocating pneumatic tool is arranged between an air pressure control module and a guide outlet of a piston rod in a groove of the reciprocating pneumatic tool. The integrated module has a cylindrical body, an air pressure guiding seat positioned in the cylindrical body, a reversible actuating slot recessed into the seat body, a reversing brake block movably positioned into the reversible actuating slot, and a partition board fixedly assembled between the seat body and the cylindrical body.
US08844642B2	Automatic flow restrictor for firefighting apparatus An automatic flow restrictor includes a movement sensor that detects undesired movement of a firefighting apparatus relative to a support surface and automatically reduces the flow of fluid through the apparatus to thereby reduce reaction forces acting upon the apparatus. The sensor may be a slidable member or an actuatable lever, for example, that detects movement of the apparatus along or away from a support surface, and actuates an adjuster to restrict the flow of fluid until the forces are balanced and the apparatus stops moving relative to the support surface.
US08844640B2	Extensible and ground support fire curtain A ground supported and upwardly extensible firewall curtain, such as for use in containing fires. A plurality of ground anchored and elongated housing are arranged in end-to-end interconnected fashion, such as in an advance position of an approaching fire. Each housing assembly includes an interiorly stored and upwardly extended curtain constructed of a fire resistant material. The curtains are likewise interconnected in end-to-end and inter-structurally supported fashion and so that a continuous fire wall is created to prevent or retard the advance of the fire in a given direction, such as toward residential or other populated areas.
US08844639B2	Pentane-hexane solvent in situ recovery of heavy oil An integrated thermal recovery process using a solvent of a pentane or hexane or both as an additive to, or sole component of, a gravity-dominated process for recovering bitumen or heavy oil from a reservoir. A pentane-hexane specific solvent fraction is extracted at surface from a diluent stream. That pentane-hexane solvent fraction is then injected into the reservoir as part of a gravity-dominated recovery process within the reservoir, and when that solvent fraction is subsequently produced as part of the oil or bitumen blend, it is allowed to remain within the blend to enhance the subsequent blend treating and transportation steps. Meanwhile, the remainder of the diluent from which the solvent stream had been extracted is utilized at surface as a blending stream to serve as an aid in treating of produced fluids and also to serve as a means of rendering the bitumen or heavy oil stream pipelineable.
US08844636B2	Hydraulic assist deployment system for artificial lift systems A well conveyance system couples to an uphole end of an artificial lift system and operates to push the artificial lift system through a tubing string for deployment in a wellbore. The well conveyance system includes a wellbore tractor adapted to push the artificial lift system through the tubing string and a swab cup assembly having a swab cup and a perforated nipple extending therethrough. The perforated nipple includes a nipple passage allowing for fluid flow from an area downhole from the swab cup to an area uphole from the swab cup when the wellbore tractor operates. A valve selectively blocks the perforated nipple to permit a hydraulic pressure to be applied to the tubing string uphole of the swab cup, exerting a downhole force on the swab cup to aid in deployment of the artificial lift system.
US08844631B2	Debris removal system for downhole closure mechanism, and method thereof A debris removal system includes a tubular. A closure mechanism arranged to at least partially close an interior of the tubular. An injector mechanism having an exit arranged downhole of the closure mechanism; wherein debris removing material ejected from the injector mechanism is directable towards the closure mechanism. Also included is a method of removing debris in a downhole tubular.
US08844628B2	Self-adaptive cements A self-adaptive cement formulation includes cement, water and asphaltite-mineral particles. The set cement demonstrates self-healing properties when exposed to methane, and is particularly suited for well-cementing applications. After placement and curing, the self-healing properties help maintain zonal isolation should bonding be disrupted between the set cement and the formation or a casing string, should cracks or defects appear in the set-cement matrix, or both.
US08844625B2	Perforating gun spacer Perforating gun connectors are provided with a small diameter inner tube to house the detonating cord and an outer load-bearing tube that is ported to be in pressure balance. The inner tube controls the volume in the gun for the well fluids to enter after the guns are fired and the initial pressure surge dissipates. The smaller diameter also increases pressure rating and diminishes the chance of plastic deformation. Since the inner tube is inset even some deformation is tolerated without distorting the outer tube due to the space between the tubes. A bored rod is used as a housing member or a layered single outer wall.
US08844624B2	Rigid centralizer Embodiments of the disclosure provide a rigid centralizer having at least one annular band with radially extending embossed flutes spaced around an outer surface of the at least one annular band and a plurality of elongated connecting posts welded to an inner surface of the at least one annular band to form a tubular receiving annulus.
US08844623B2	Method and system for one-trip hanger installation There is provided a system and method for installing a wellhead component in a single trip. Generally, a wellhead component may be run into a wellhead using a running tool. The running tool may then be retrieved from the wellhead and replaced with a locking tool, which is also run into the wellhead. Additional tools may be used to over-pull the wellhead component and to cementing the wellhead component in place. The process of retrieving and running tools into the wellhead is both time-consuming and costly. Accordingly, the disclosed embodiments include a one-trip tool configured to run a wellhead component into a wellhead, engage an internal coupling to lock the wellhead component in place, over-pull the wellhead component to ensure the internal coupling was properly engaged, and cement the wellhead component in place within the wellhead.
US08844622B2	Wellbore cleaning method and apparatus A method of drilling and cleaning a wellbore includes providing a drill string having a drill bit and a cleaning tool with selectively activatable cleaning members; drilling a wellbore using the drill bit while maintaining the cleaning members in a deactivated position; and pulling the drill string from the wellbore with the cleaning members in an activated position, to thereby clean the wellbore. A corresponding cleaning tool includes a body having a bore running therethrough, a sleeve located within the bore, the sleeve including a ball seat and the sleeve being biased in a first direction, and a plurality of selectively activatable cleaning members mounted for repeated movement relative to the body between activated and deactivated positions.
US08844620B2	Side-tracking system and related methods A sidetracking tool includes a setting tool having an expandable anchor, a whipstock connected to an upper end of the setting tool, the whipstock having a ramp face along an axial length thereof, and a drilling assembly including a drill bit disposed on an end thereof, wherein the drill bit is configured to interface with the ramp face of the whipstock.
US08844609B2	Cooling manifold Apparatus including cooling manifold, having metal cooling body and metal cooling block. Metal cooling body has internal passageway. Metal cooling block extends away from metal cooling body. Metal cooling block has surface oriented for being placed adjacent to and in substantially direct thermal communication with an electronic component located at distance away from metal cooling body. Cooling manifold is configured for circulating a working fluid through internal passageway and for precluding passage of the working fluid from metal cooling body into metal cooling block. Method that includes providing electronic component and cooling manifold. Provided cooling manifold includes metal cooling body and metal cooling block; metal cooling body has internal passageway; metal cooling block extends away from metal cooling body; metal cooling block has surface oriented adjacent to and in substantially direct thermal communication with electronic component being located at distance away from metal cooling body. Method also includes causing working fluid to be circulated through internal passageway while precluding passage of working fluid from metal cooling body into metal cooling block, such that heat is transferred from electronic component to working fluid.
US08844607B2	Method and apparatus for production of a cast component A system for producing cast components from molten metal. One form of the present invention includes a system for the precision pouring of molten metal within a casting mold. The precision pouring system is driven by a pressure differential.
US08844605B2	Single cord operated clutch for roller blind A clutch for a roller blind. The clutch comprises a drive shaft operatively connected to a drive mechanism, an idle shaft releasably coupled to the drive shaft, and a drive spring. The drive mechanism imparts rotational movement to the drive shaft. The idle shaft is operatively connected to the tube of the roller blind such that rotation of the idle shaft causes rotation of the roller blind tube. The drive spring is operatively associated with the idle shaft and with the drive shaft such that rotation of the drive shaft in a first direction causes the drive spring to impart rotational movement to the idle shaft, thereby causing rotation of the roller blind tube. When the drive shaft is rotated in a second opposite direction the drive spring permits the drive shaft to rotate independently of the idle shaft.
US08844599B2	Configurable tooling and molding method using the same Configurable layup tooling used to fabricate reinforced composite parts having a common shape but varying features are disclosed herein. An example apparatus disclosed herein includes a common tool body. A first mandrel is received by the common tool body to form at least a first portion of a common shape and a first profile of a first part to be formed via the common tool body. A second mandrel is received by the common tool body to form the first portion of the common shape and a second profile of a second part that is different from the first part.
US08844598B2	Fusion welding socket A fusion welding socket for coupling together double walled plastic conduits including an inner pipe, an outer pipe surrounding the inner pipe and an annular space arranged between the inner and outer pipes. The fusion welding socket includes a main body comprising a first end portion, a second end portion and an intermediate portion. The intermediate portion has at least one inner diameter which is smaller than the inner diameters of the first and second end portions. Three heating coils are embedded in the first end portion, the second end portion and the intermediate portion, respectively, for fusing together the first and second end portions with a respective outer pipe of a first and second conduit and the intermediate portion with a respective inner pipe of the first and second conduit. A passageway includes an annular space is arranged to connect the annular spaces of the first and second conduit after fusion.
US08844596B2	Central tire inflation wheel assembly, valve and central tire inflation system The present invention is a valve for use in a central tire inflation system including a casing securable to the rim of a vehicle in communication with the tire that houses a main body connectable to a pressurized fluid supply of the central tire inflation system, and a valve member moveable within the main body to control the flow of air through the valve. The valve can be mounted flush on the exterior surface of the rim or in a recessed position within the rim, and can be connected to a manifold that is able to control the flow of pressurized fluid from the central tire inflation system to each valve and tire connected to the valve. The operation of the manifold and pressurized fluid supply can be controlled utilizing a controller operably connected to the manifold and fluid supply, and to sensing devices that supply information regarding the operational conditions of the vehicle to the controller to assist in adjusting the inflation of the tires as necessary.
US08844592B2	Pneumatic tire A pneumatic tire improved in on-ice performance and on-snow performance in good balance. The pneumatic tire includes a tread portion extending in a tire circumferential direction and forming a ring shape, a pair of sidewall portions on both sides of the tread portion, respectively, and a pair of bead portions on inner sides of the sidewall portions in a tire radial direction, respectively. The tread portion includes a plurality of longitudinal grooves extending in the tire circumferential direction and a plurality of lateral grooves extending in a tire width direction. The longitudinal and lateral grooves define a plurality of block rows each including a plurality of blocks. Each of the plurality of blocks included in at least one of the block rows includes at least three closed grooves including at least one first closed groove and at least one second closed groove.
US08844589B2	Motorcycle tyre Motorcycle tire suitable for mounting on the rear wheel of a motorcycle, including a tread band having a tread pattern includes a module which is repeated in a direction of circumferential extension of the tire, the module having: at least two substantially longitudinal first grooves which are inclined opposite to each other with respect to the equatorial plane of the tire; and at least two substantially longitudinal second grooves which are inclined opposite to each other with respect to the equatorial plane. Each substantially longitudinal first groove alternates with a second longitudinal groove. The substantially longitudinal first grooves have, in a direction axially away from the equatorial plane of the tire, two substantially consecutive curvilinear sections, the first section of which has a convexity and the second section of which has a concavity directed in the rolling direction of the tire. The first curvilinear section defines along its extension with the equatorial plane angles smaller than or equal to 90°.
US08844587B1	Locking fuel pump dispenser The present invention relates to a locking fuel pump fuel dispenser nozzle and especially to a locking fuel pump fuel dispenser nozzle having a locking mechanism for automatically locking a fuel nozzle spout in the vehicle filler tube whenever fuel is being pumped into the vehicle filler tube and fuel tank and which can be unlocked only when fuel pressure from the fuel pump is cut off.
US08844586B2	Retaining brace having a clamp for grasping bottle necks A retaining bracket used in bottle processing includes a clamp having clamp arms that pivot in a horizontal plane for grasping bottle necks, a sliding sleeve for receiving a hinge pin entering therein from an upward direction, the hinge pin having a magnetizable or magnetically free end, a first permanent magnet disposed in a lower region of the sleeve for interacting with the free end of the hinge pin, a pivotable sleeve for receiving a second pin parallel to the hinge pin, the second pin having, at a free end thereof, a permanent magnet or magnetically influenced region that exerts an attractive force tending to center and restore the clamp, and a brace-like projection that engages below the clamp when the clamp is in a locked position.
US08844585B2	Apparatus and method of filling containers with cleaning device An apparatus for filling containers with a liquid and, in particular, with a beverage, with a plurality of filling elements which in each case have an outlet in order to pour the beverage into the containers, as well as a valve device in order to control the supply of the liquid into the containers, with a conveying device which conveys the containers along a pre-set conveying path at least for a time during the filling thereof with the liquid, and with a cleaning device which acts with a cleaning medium upon at least one region contacted by the liquid to be filled. At least one filling element is designed in such a way that the cleaning medium is freely discharged out of this filling element during a cleaning operation.
US08844576B2	Exhaust pipe An object of the present invention is to provide an exhaust pipe in which a peeling of a constituent member does not occur and reliability thereof is excellent, and an exhaust pipe allowing exhaust gases to flow through the exhaust pipe of the present invention includes a heat-releasing layer containing a crystalline inorganic material and an amorphous inorganic material and having infrared emissivity higher than infrared emissivity of a base, wherein irregularities are formed on a surface of the base on which the heat-releasing layer is to be formed.
US08844573B2	Valve arrangement for controlling brake devices and auxiliary devices of a pneumatic brake system of a vehicle A valve arrangement controls brake devices and auxiliary devices of a pneumatic brake system of a vehicle, and includes pneumatic control valves which are detachably arranged on at least one common support module containing compressed air channels, for carrying out braking functions or auxiliary braking functions of the brake system. The valve arrangement also includes several adjacently arranged block-shaped support modules having at least the same height and depth measurements and including channel sections forming common longitudinal channels when all of the support modules are adjacently arranged in a row. At least one unit hole receives a control valve embodied as a cartridge valve and arranged on a front side of each support module to enable switching the compressed air flow between inner channels.
US08844572B2	Drain pipe waste water closure protection device An embodiment includes a drain pipe waste water closure protection device which allows passage of fluids through a drain into a pipe waste water closure and a waste water pipe while preventing backflow of fluid or gas from the waste water pipe and pipe waste water closure, as well as preventing evaporation of a water-containing pipe waste water closure located below the drain pipe waste water closure protection device in the waste water pipe. Embodiment drain pipe waste water closure protection devices are easily installed in existing or new drains. Embodiments have two radial disc seals which insure a strong seal between the drain pipe waste water closure protection device and the drain wall. Embodiments include a reinforcing band embedded below the radial disc seals which prevents failure of the radial disc seals.Embodiments include a quadruple pressure accumulating seal which protects against the flow of gas or fluid from the waste water pipe.
US08844571B2	Fluid actuator for producing a pulsed outlet flow in the flow around an aerodynamic body, and discharge device and aerodynamic body equipped therewith A fluid actuator for influencing the flow along a flow surface by ejecting a fluid flowing through the fluid actuator is described. The fluid actuator has at least two outlet lines with outlet openings at the respective ends thereof, and a feed line connected to the outlet lines for feeding fluid at a supply pressure, a flow direction diverting device into which the feed line opens and out of which the outlet lines open, and an adjusting device coupled to the flow direction diverting device to control the latter. The adjusting device is configured so the fluid is conducted successively in a cyclic sequence into each of the outlet lines. A discharge device for discharging a fluid out of a flow body, and a flow body having a multiplicity of discharge openings and a discharge device of said type are also described.
US08844570B2	Generating binary states using a microfluidic channel Methods and devices for using one or more fluidic channels for generating binary states are described. In particular, the present teachings relate to incorporating such fluidic channels into devices that use the generated binary states in various applications.
US08844566B2	Vitrectomy probe with adjustable cutter port size Vitrectomy probes and system related thereto are disclosed herein. The disclosure describes various example vitrectomy probes having an adjustable cutting port size. Various example features are described for adjusting the size of the cutting port. Further, the disclosure provides examples for adjusting the size of the cutter port while the vitrectomy probe is in operation.
US08844563B2	Dual plate check valve A check valve in which a stop pin assembly is situated so as to prevent the movement of a flapper beyond a predetermined position. In a preferred embodiment the check valve has two flappers with the stop pin assembly situated therebetween to prevent either one of them from pivoting beyond an essentially vertical position. The stop pin assembly is configured such that it can be inserted and locked in place when the check valve is inserted within a valve body that contains the check valve. The stop pin assembly can comprise three elements including a central portion and first and second end portions, although the stop pin assembly could instead comprise a single element. The stop pin assembly is inserted between two holders and in a preferred embodiment is rotatable to a locking position where it is affixed in place by fasteners.
US08844561B2	Isolation valve with integrated sensor An isolation valve has an electrically-actuated solenoid valve, at least one port having a port extension, and a sensor assembly coupled to the port extension. The sensor assembly includes a printed circuit board, an integrated circuit disposed on the circuit board, and at least one pressure sensor coupled to the port extension to measure a vapor pressure in the port extension. In one embodiment, a single sensor assembly can monitor pressure at two or more ports. By integrating the sensor assembly into the isolation valve, the valve has a compact assembly that is easy to install in a vapor control system.
US08844559B1	Cleanout protector A cleanout protector includes a hollow sleeve having an upper end, a lower end and at least one outer wall. The lower end includes a plurality of piercing members for penetrating surrounding soil. Any one of a plurality of fixtures, such as a solar lamp or a decorative design element, is removably mounted on the upper end of the sleeve. Accordingly, a user superimposes the sleeve on a cleanout and inserts the piercing members into the soil as far as possible. A desired fixture is mounted on the sleeve thereby protecting and decoratively concealing the cleanout.
US08844558B2	Adjustable operating rod for a hydrant An adjustable operating rod assembly is provided. In one embodiment a telescoping rod and tube are provided such that the length of the operating rod can be selectively adjusted in order to accommodate fluid inlet pipes of various lengths and regardless of manufacturer.
US08844557B2	Float valve device A space in a housing is defined into a lower space and an upper space by a partition wall, and an opening portion is provided in the partition wall. A vertically slidable float is housed in the lower space of the housing and on an upper portion of the float, a movable valve is mounted so as to be movable relatively to the float in a vertical direction and a lateral direction. A protruding portion is provided on the upper portion of the float, and a receiving portion on which the protruding portion abuts is provided on a lower surface of the movable valve. A center hole is provided in a center of the receiving portion. When the float comes up, a peripheral portion of a top portion of the protruding portion of the float is adapted to abut on an inner circumference periphery of the center hole.
US08844552B2	Slug mitigation Method and apparatus for mitigating slug formation in a multiphase fluid stream flowing through a conduit. The method includes (a) determining the pressure in the conduit upstream of a slugging zone, (b) determining the pressure in the conduit downstream of the slugging zone, (c) determining the actual pressure difference across the slugging zone by subtracting the downstream pressure from step (b) from the upstream pressure from step (a), (d) determining the error between a target pressure difference and the actual pressure difference, (e) producing a signal having a first component which is proportional to the error and a second component which is proportional to the rate of change of the error over time, and (f) using the signal produced in step (e) to control the position of an adjustable choke valve located downstream of the slugging zone so as to stabilize variations arising in the actual pressure difference over time.
US08844550B2	Craft dome The quickly erectable dome shelter includes an extendible perimeter truss assembly with link members connected between adjacent legs, a central truss assembly of link members, and a roof framework, including pairs of curved upper and lower peak truss members, that is movable between a lowered, collapsed configuration and a raised, upwardly arching position. The shelter also includes telescoping peak pole members coupled to the central truss assembly of link members and the roof framework, and may also include telescoping peak truss brace members connected between a peak truss member and a link member of the perimeter assembly of link members.
US08844546B2	Apparatus and method for cleaning semiconductor substrate using pressurized fluid Embodiments of the present invention generally relate to an apparatus and a method for cleaning a semiconductor substrate after a polishing process. Particularly, embodiments of the present invention relates to an apparatus and method for cleaning a substrate using pressurized fluid. One embodiment of the present invention comprises two rollers to support and rotate a substrate in a substantially vertical orientation, a pressure wheel to apply a force to engage the substrate with the two rollers, and a swinging nozzle configured to dispense a pressurized fluid towards the substrate.
US08844545B2	Treatment liquid supply apparatus and substrate treatment apparatus including the same A treatment liquid supply apparatus supplies a treatment liquid to a predetermined object for treatment of a substrate, and recovers the supplied treatment liquid for reuse. The apparatus includes: a first tank in which the treatment liquid to be supplied to the object is stored; a second tank in which the treatment liquid recovered from the object is stored; a transfer unit which transfers the treatment liquid from the second tank to the first tank; a first temperature regulating unit which regulates the temperature of the treatment liquid to be supplied from the first tank to the object; and a second temperature regulating unit which regulates the temperature of the treatment liquid to be transferred from the second tank to the first tank by the transfer unit.
US08844543B2	Concave-convex roller assembly A dual-ended applicator is provided. The applicator includes a handle, a first roller having a broad concave surface at one end of the handle, and a second, ball-like roller having a convex surface, at the opposite end of the handle. The first roller, having a greater axial length and surface area than does the second roller is intended for applying a cosmetic to broader convex areas of the skin. The second roller, having a lesser axial dimension and surface area as compared with the first roller is intended for distributing a cosmetic to the narrower, concave areas of the skin. The first roller is mounted on the applicator so as to rotate about a fixed axis lateral to the longitudinal axis of the applicator, and will move in straight paths along the skin, in line with the longitudinal axis of the applicator. The second, ball-like roller is mounted on the applicator so as to travel along both straight and curved paths, automatically adjusting between positions as the applicator is moved along the skin surface.
US08844539B2	Nipple cover One aspect of the present application relates to a covering member for a protruding portion of a patient's body. This cover is flexible and collapsible so that it conforms to the shape of the encased portion of the body.
US08844536B1	Locking apparatus for a head fixation device A locking apparatus for use with a head fixation device allows for a stabilizing fixture, such as a rocker arm having a pair of skull pins, to be selectively secured so that the stabilizing fixture can be adjustably rotated to a desired position. In some version the locking apparatus includes a connector that is retained within an opening in a portion of the head fixation device. The connector can translate within the opening and is restricted from rotation. The translating of the connector permits the connector to engage an arch member that retains the stabilizing fixture. The engagement of the connector and arch member is accomplished, in some versions, by way of matching axial oriented toothed portions or starburst features. In some versions the teeth on the starburst features include a chamfer surface.
US08844528B2	Breathing circuits to facilitate the measurement of cardiac output during controlled and spontaneous ventilation A breathing circuit for sequential gas delivery of a first gas set (FGS) and a second gas set (SGS) employs an arrangement of conduits and active or passive valves to prevent mixing of the FGS and SGS including a valve triggered by depletion of FGS that makes the SGS available for inspiration after the FGS is depleted.
US08844524B2	CPAP mask and system A continuous positive air pressure (“CPAP”) or ventilator system includes a mask and an air flow generator. The air flow generator is mounted or provided to the mask's wearer. In one embodiment, air flow generator is mounted on the mask.
US08844522B2	Power management in respiratory treatment apparatus A respiratory treatment apparatus provides respiratory treatment with improved power management control to permit more efficient power consumption and power supply units, such as battery powered operation. In one embodiment, power management prioritizes the flow generator (104) over other accessories such as the heating elements (111, 135) of a humidifier (112) and/or a delivery tube. The flow generator may control operations of the heating elements as a function of a detected respiratory cycle. For example, the timing of operation of the heating elements may be interleaved with the portion of an inspiratory phase of the respiratory cycle to permit the flow generator to operate during a peak power operation without a power drain or with a lower power drain from these components. Operations of distinct sets of components of the system (e.g., different heating elements) may also be interleaved to prevent simultaneous peak power operations.
US08844520B2	Nebulizer apparatus and method A nebulizer for efficiently and reliably delivering aerosolized fluid to an inhaling patient is disclosed. The nebulizer includes a fluid channel air inlet and fluid channel air inlet valve responsive to either a manual force external of the nebulizer, or a patient's breathing, to begin the nebulization process. Also provided is a method of providing nebulization including the steps of moving a fluid channel air inlet valve against a fluid channel air inlet so that a negative pressure may build up over the fluid in the fluid channel to draw fluid from the fluid reservoir and begin nebulization during inhalation.
US08844519B2	Torque transfer between trough collector modules A system for transferring torque between modules in a concentrating solar collector array. A trough collector system includes at least two modules, each module including a reflector having a reflective surface shaped to concentrate incoming radiation onto a linear tube, and a structural lattice attached to the reflector. The modules are constrained to rotate about a common axis. A torque transfer connection directly connects the three-dimensional structural lattices of the two modules at a location removed from the axis of rotation. Torque is thus transmitted between the modules by a force couple acting on the module. Also described are a method of transferring torque between adjacent trough collector modules, and a three-dimensional structural lattice configured for use in the system and method. Mechanisms for accommodating thermal expansion and contraction of the array are described. A drive system is described that imparts torque to a module near an edge of the module.
US08844518B2	Solar receiver absorber and solar receiver comprising at least one such absorber A solar power tower solar receiver absorber including: an enclosure; at least one panel configured to be illuminated by solar flux; a core made of at least one material with heat conductivity at least partially encompassed by the enclosure; and a plurality of tubes passing through the core and extending substantially in a parallel direction with respect to the panel configured to be illuminated. The tube is configured for circulation of a fluid to be heated, for example a gas for operating a gas turbine.
US08844516B2	Heating apparatus using solar energy and method of heating using solar energy This relates to a heating device including a solar energy collector, the solar energy collector transferring collected solar energy to outside air. First collector panels are used to heat outside air which heated air is led to a heater, for example a space heater. Second collector panels are used to transfer solar energy to air led to a heat exchanger of a heat pump. The heat pump transfers the extracted heat to heat storage. The stored heat is added to the air coming from the first collector panels if the temperature of the air coming from the first collector panels is below a predetermined temperature.
US08844515B2	Carousel heliostat having louvered horizontal mirrors for solar tower systems A low profile heliostat with elongated louvered mirror segments is provided. Its envelope of revolution has the shape of a flat disc to enable heliostat fields with very high ground coverage ratio. The heliostat's disc-shaped footprint rotates around a substantially vertical axis (akin to a carousel). The short dimension of the mirror segments is drastically shorter than the disc's diameter. Embodiments are described in which the motion relies on two concentric rings, which are individually rotated around a vertical axis. The lower ring acts as a platform providing mainly azimuth tracking, carrying the upper ring. The differential rotation between the upper ring and the lower ring is translated into a rotation of the mirror segments around a second, perpendicular, axis and used for elevation tracking. Disc-shaped heliostat with D-shaped cut-offs are described, to facilitate the required maintenance access even in highly dense heliostat fields.
US08844512B2	Combustion air supply apparatus for an oven appliance An oven appliance is provided with an apparatus that supplies combustion air (i.e. primary air) to gas burner(s) of the oven appliance. The apparatus includes an air channel that provides for a flow of fresh, combustion air from the exterior of the oven appliance to a gas burner and, more particularly, to the shutter of a gas burner. The air channel can also be provided with a flame arrestor.
US08844510B2	Riser of compound bow A riser of a compound bow includes a lower section and an upper section. The upper section has an end section and a connection section which is connected to the lower section by engagement of pins and pin holes of the two respective connection ends. The connection is further reinforced by way of welding. The end section is further connected with the connection section by engagement of pins and pin holes of the two respective connection ends. The connection is further reinforced by way of welding. The riser is strong and saves material.
US08844505B2	Method for managing the exhaust gas circulation circuit of a petrol thermal engine and corresponding recirculation system The invention relates to a method for managing an exhaust gas recirculation circuit of a petrol thermal engine, the engine including at least one combustion chamber connected to an inlet line and an exhaust line between which extends said recirculation circuit, the recirculation circuit including a flow-rate adjustment valve, wherein said method comprises the step of adjusting flow-rate adjustment valve based on a flow-rate setpoint, said method further comprising the steps of: detecting an operation parameter representative of a pressure difference between an upstream pressure and a downstream pressure relative to the flow-rate adjustment valve, and, after comparing the parameter with a threshold corresponding to a minimum pressure difference, adjusting the flow-rate in at least one of the lines in order to increase the pressure difference.
US08844501B2	Control and regulation method for an internal combustion engine having a common rail system The invention relates to a control and regulation method for an internal combustion engine having a common rail system, wherein a rail pressure is regulated in normal operation in that a first actual rail pressure is determined via a first filter from the rail pressure, an offset is calculated from a target rail pressure and the first actual rail pressure, a variable is calculated via a pressure regulator from the offset and a PWM signal having a first PWM frequency (f1) for activation of a control process is determined in dependence on the variable. A second actual rail pressure (pCR2(IST) is determined via a second filter, a load rejection is recognized if the second actual rail pressure (pCR2(IST)) exceeds a first threshold value (GW1), upon exceeding the first threshold value (GW1) the PWM signal switches over from the first PWM frequency (f1) to a second PWM frequency (f2) and the rail pressure is controlled upon exceeding a second threshold value in that the PWM signal is temporarily set to a PWM value that is higher than that of normal operation.
US08844491B2	Laser spark plug A laser spark plug, e.g., for an internal combustion engine of a motor vehicle or a heavy-duty gas engine, has an antechamber for receiving an ignitable medium and a combustion chamber window which separates the antechamber from a part of the laser spark plug facing away from the combustion chamber. At least one flow-guiding element is provided in the antechamber and is situated in such a way that it deflects a fluid flow, which occurs in the antechamber and moves toward the combustion chamber window, into a radially inner direction.
US08844490B2	Corona igniter having controlled location of corona formation A corona igniter 20 includes an insulator 28 surrounding a central electrode 24 and a shell 30 surrounding the insulator 28. The shell 30 presents a shell gap 38 having a shell gap width ws between a shell lower end 34 and a shell inner surface 90 or shell outer surface 92. The shell 30 has a shell thickness ts decreasing toward the shell lower end 34 allowing the shell gap width ws to increase toward the shell lower end 34. The shell gap 38 is open at the shell lower end 34 allowing air to flow therein, and the shell gap width ws is greatest at the shell lower end 34. The increasing shell gap width ws enhances corona discharge 22 along the insulator 28 between the central electrode 24 and shell 30.
US08844485B2	Valve timing controller A valve timing controller includes a lock mechanism that locks a rotation phase at a main lock phase when an internal combustion engine is started with an ambient temperature more than or equal to a preset temperature. The main lock phase represents a rotation phase set for closing an intake valve at a later timing later than a timing when a piston reaches a bottom dead center of a cylinder in the internal combustion engine. The lock mechanism locks the rotation phase at a sub lock phase representing a rotation phase advanced rather than the main lock phase in the internal combustion engine when the internal combustion engine is started with an ambient temperature lower than the present temperature.
US08844481B2	Variable valve apparatus for internal combustion engine A variable valve apparatus for an internal combustion engine includes a control shaft, a camshaft having first and second camshaft members rotatable relative to each other, a rotary cam rotating together with the second camshaft member for opening and closing of an exhaust valve, an eccentric drive cam rotating together with the first camshaft member, a rocker arm caused to swing with rotation of the eccentric drive cam, a swing cam caused to swing by the rocker arm for opening and closing of an intake valve, a control cam formed on the control shaft to change an operating position of the rocker arm according to a rotational phase of the control shaft and vary the amount of swinging movement of the swing cam, a phase control mechanism adapted to control a relative rotational phase of the first and second camshaft members and an actuator for rotating the control shaft.
US08844480B2	Internal-combustion engine having a system for variable actuation of the intake valves, provided with three-way solenoid valves An internal-combustion engine with two intake valves for each cylinder is provided with a system for variable actuation of the intake valves, comprising a single solenoid valve for each cylinder that controls communication of the pressurized-fluid chamber of the system with an exhaust channel. The solenoid valve is a three-way, three-position solenoid valve, comprising an inlet permanently communicating with the pressurized-fluid chamber and with the hydraulic actuator of an intake valve, and two outlets communicating, respectively, with the actuator of the other intake valve and with said exhaust channel. The solenoid valve has a first position, in which the inlet communicates with both of the outlets, a second position, in which the inlet communicates only with the aforesaid outlet connected to the actuator of an intake valve and does not communicate, instead, with the outlet connected to the exhaust channel, and a third position, in which the inlet does not communicate with any of the two outlets.
US08844479B2	Variable compression ratio engine In a variable compression ratio engine with a connecting mechanism including a first control shaft to control the compression ratio of a variable compression ratio, a second control shaft to be rotated/retained by an actuator, and a lever interconnecting the first control shaft and the second control shaft, a speed reduction ratio from the actuator to the first control shaft through the rotation power transmission path is set to be maximum at the maximum compression ratio, at a preset compression ratio (i.e. at any given compression ratio between the minimum compression ratio and the maximum compression ratio) the speed reduction ratio is set to be minimum, and the reduction ratio is set higher at the maximum compression ratio as compared to the intermediate compression ratio.
US08844477B2	Hand-held work apparatus powered by internal combustion engine A hand-held work apparatus includes an engine housing (200). An internal combustion engine (202) is arranged in the engine housing (200) and includes a cylinder (204) and a crankshaft. A fan wheel (214) is driven directly or indirectly by the crank shaft, such that the fan wheel (214) rotates about an axis A. A fan housing (216) surrounds and cooperates with the fan wheel (214). A combustion air inlet (224) is located radially outside of the fan wheel (214) for leading air to the internal combustion engine (202). Further, the combustion air inlet (224) includes a combustion air inlet port (226) and a combustion air duct (228). The combustion air inlet port (226) is provided with a first edge (230), which first edge (230) is located radially adjacent to the periphery (220) of the fan wheel (214). An angle X between a first line L1 extending radially from the axis A in a direction parallel to a main direction of the cylinder (204) and a radius L2 extending radially from the axis A in a direction such that it intersects with the first edge (230), is less than 70° and preferably less than 66°, and even more preferably less than 62°.
US08844476B2	Motor-driven implement having switchable summer-winter operating function A motor driven implement having an internal combustion engine having at least one cylinder and at least one carburettor, which is disposed in a carburettor chamber, which is separated by an intermediate wall from an engine compartment, wherein a fan wheel is further provided by which means air from the engine compartment can be introduced through an engine compartment opening in the intermediate wall into the carburettor chamber. A warm air opening is provided in the intermediate wall, through which the air heated over the cylinder can be introduced into the carburettor chamber and wherein an adjusting element is provided which can be brought into a summer position in which the engine compartment opening is open and the warm air opening is closed and which can be brought into a winter position in which the engine compartment opening is closed and the warm air opening is open.
US08844473B2	Gradual oxidation with reciprocating engine Described herein are embodiments of systems and methods for oxidizing gases. In some embodiments, a reaction chamber is configured to receive a fuel gas and maintain the gas at a temperature within the reaction chamber that is above an autoignition temperature of the gas. The reaction chamber may also be configured to maintain a reaction temperature within the reaction chamber below a flameout temperature. In some embodiments, heat and product gases from the oxidation process can be used, for example, to drive a turbine, reciprocating engine, and injected back into the reaction chamber.
US08844468B2	Aquarium landscape system An aquarium landscape system that includes an aquarium that contains a combination of one or more aquatic animals and water, a base gravel mold with a top surface with 4 corners and a plurality of eye hooks that each have a threaded vertical insert portion and a circular eye portion that expose the circular eye portion of the eye hooks above the top surface of the base gravel mold. The system also includes one or more air hose connector valves that perpendicularly protrude from the top surface of the base gravel mold, a plurality of air valves that perpendicularly protrude from the top surface of the base gravel mold, the air valves emit the incoming air received by the air supply source into the aquarium and a pair of removable handles to remove the system from the aquarium for cleaning.
US08844464B2	Systems, methods, and devices for applying fluid composites to a carrier sheet Systems, method and devices for applying a fluid composite to a carrier sheet are presented herein. An aspect of this disclosure is directed to a fluid-administering apparatus for applying a fluid composite, such as resins, epoxies, and adhesives, to a carrier sheet, such as a cloth tape. The apparatus includes a support frame with a container buttress, and a container removably received within the container buttress of the support frame. The container has a basin for holding the fluid composite, a lid covering the basin, and first and second scraping surfaces for scraping the carrier sheet. The container also has first and second slots, each of which is defined through a respective opposing side of the container. The carrier sheet passes through the first slot, traverses down into the basin through the fluid composite, slides over the first scraping surface then under the second scraping surface, and passes out through the second slot.

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