| Document | Document Title |
|---|---|
| US08876714B2 |
Systems and methods for assessing risk of chromosomal disorders
Certain aspects and examples are directed to systems and methods for assessing risk of chromosomal disorders. Certain embodiments are directed to systems and methods that use nuchal translucency values from both twins to provide a fetus specific risk of a chromosomal disorder in at least one fetus of the twins fetuses. |
| US08876710B2 |
Surgical portal apparatus with expandable cannula
A surgical portal apparatus includes a housing and a portal member extending from the housing. The portal member is dimensioned for insertion within tissue to access an underlying tissue site and defines a longitudinal axis. The portal member includes an outer wall having a longitudinal opening for reception of a surgical object. The outer wall includes first and second peripheral segments extending along the longitudinal axis. The first peripheral segment includes a substantially rigid material and the second peripheral segment includes a substantially elastomeric material. The first peripheral segment and the second peripheral segment cooperate to permit the outer wall to radially expand from a first condition where the outer wall defines a first internal dimension to a second condition where the outer wall defines a second internal dimension greater than the first internal dimension upon insertion of the surgical object. |
| US08876709B2 |
Illuminated and modular soft tissue retractor
A surgical retractor for illuminating a surgical field includes an ergonomic handle, a retractor blade coupled with the handle, a quick release mechanism, and an illuminator blade. The retractor blade is adapted to engage and retract tissue, and the quick release mechanism is adapted to couple the handle with the retractor blade. The illuminator blade acts as a waveguide to transmit light by total internal reflection. Light is extracted from the illuminator to illuminate the surgical field. The retractor blade is releasable from the handle without requiring uncoupling of the illuminator blade from the handle and also without requiring optical uncoupling of the illuminator blade from a light source. The retractor may also be adapted to evacuate smoke from the surgical field. |
| US08876697B2 |
Device for maintaining an erection
A device for maintaining an erection has tubes connected to C-shaped balloons disposed at the base and neck of the penis. The air pressure inside the tubes helps to maintain the erection, while the C-shaped balloons help to retain the blood inside Corpora Cavernosa due to the choke-like grip around the base and neck of the penis. The air pressure is supplied by a pump actuated by movements of a pubic bone during sexual activity. |
| US08876693B2 |
Device and method for vaginal sacrocolpopexy
A surgical procedure for repairing vaginal prolapse, including apical descent (vaginal vault or uterine descensus), cystocele and/or rectocele, avoids bladder injury, the need for laparoscopic suturing, and difficulties in tensioning the mesh used to hold the vagina in the correct anatomical position, and can be practiced with off the shelf components. The procedure typically comprises exposing a female patient's peritoneum; making a peritoneal incision (e.g. over the patient's sacrum); mobilizing the peritoneum; incising the patient's vagina and attaching the anterior and posterior surfaces of a first (e.g. generally rectangular) mesh component, with a truncated stem and first locking element, to the apex of the patient's vagina; passing a mesh base component having a second locking element at a distal end, and a proximal end, underneath the peritoneum; moving the first and second locking elements together into locking relationship; anchoring the mesh base (e.g. to the sacrum, so that the mesh components suspend the vaginal apex from the sacrum); and closing the peritoneal incision. Particular mesh components with locking elements, and a surgical spreader for use in the procedure, are desirable. |
| US08876690B2 |
Devices, systems, and methods for deforming a body channel
Devices, system and methods for deforming body channels are disclosed herein. At least some embodiments described may be used to deform a body channel so as to decrease or prevent the normal intrachannel flow of material within the body channel. Such deformation may be used to treat such maladies as Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease. |
| US08876689B2 |
Hearing aid microactuator
A fenestration piercing the otic capsule bone of the cochlea receives a therapeutic appliance, such as a microactuator, plug, micropump for drug or therapeutic agent delivery, electrode, and the like. Several different ways of achieving a ‘water tight’ seal between the otic capsule bone and the therapeutic appliance are provided. The therapeutic appliance may be implanted with or without a sheath or sleeve lining the wall of the fenestration formed using specialized surgical burrs. The burrs permit safely fenestrating the otic capsule bone adjacent to the scala tympani of the cochlea without damaging the basilar membrane or organ of corti. This approach may also be adopted for safely fenestrating other areas of the inner ear such as the scala vestibuli, bony labyrinth of semicircular canals, or walls of the vestibule, or the oval or round windows thereof. |
| US08876684B1 |
Dosimetrically customizable brachytherapy carriers and methods thereof in the treatment of tumors
Brachytherapy radioisotope carrier systems and methodology for providing real-time customized brachytherapy treatment to subjects with tumors difficult to control using conventional radiation therapy techniques. The invention generally relates to devices, methods and kits for providing customized radionuclide treatments, to help cure, slow progression or regrowth, or ameliorate the symptoms associated with tumors. |
| US08876680B2 |
Disc member base material for a disc roll
A disc roll includes a plurality of annular disc members each defining a hole and having a peripheral surface; and a rotary shaft fitted into the holes of the annular disc members by insertion, whereby the peripheral surfaces of the disc members serve as a conveying surface of the disc roll. The disc members include an inorganic fiber, mica and a clay having a content of particle components that have a particle size of 5 μm or larger of not higher than 30% by weight based on the weight of the clay. |
| US08876671B1 |
Punching bag assembly
A punching bag assembly is provided for facilitating simultaneous practice of body punching and uppercut punching. The assembly includes a first punching bag having an upper end and a lower end. At least one first bag chain is coupled to the first punching bag whereby the first punching bag is configured for being coupled to a support structure positioned above the first punching bag. A second punching bag has a central opening. The upper end of the first punching bag is inserted through the central opening such that the first punching bag extends through the second punching bag and the second punching bag is positioned proximate the upper end of the first punching bag. |
| US08876670B2 |
Omni-directional exercise device
This disclosure describes, generally, an omni-directional exercise device. The device may include a platform base and resistance bands/tubes coupled to the platform base. The device further includes one or more enclosures coupled to the plurality of resistance bands/tubes. The one or more enclosures are positioned on top of the platform base at a home position. The one or more enclosures are configured to slide on top of or above the platform base in a 360-degree range of motion such that the plurality of resistance bands/tubes provide resistance at any point on the platform base and are configured to return to the home position. |
| US08876663B2 |
Systems and methods for improving motor function with assisted exercise
One embodiment of the present invention includes a system and method for alleviating symptoms of a medical disorder of a patient by forced exercise. The system includes an exercise machine having movable portions that move in response to a first contribution by a patient and in response a second contribution by a motor. The system further includes at least one mechanical sensor and a control system programmed to alter the second contribution by the motor in response to the sensed data. |
| US08876662B2 |
Table for use with workout equipment
A table for use with a workout equipment is provided. The table includes a base, a table board and a supporting stand. The base has a front shielding portion, two lateral shielding portions, and a receiving space defined by the front shielding portion and the lateral shielding portions. The supporting stand is disposed between the base and the table board and is of a length adjustable to change the distance between the table board and the base. Accordingly, the table operates in conjunction with any workout equipments that come in various types or styles to enable a user to exercise and work concurrently and conveniently. |
| US08876656B2 |
System for driving an assembly arrangement for a motor vehicle
A system for driving an assembly arrangement for a motor vehicle, which assembly arrangement having at least one auxiliary assembly and an electric machine which is configured independently of a drive unit of the motor vehicle. It is possible for the electric machine to be operated both as a motor for driving the auxiliary assembly and as a generator for generating electric power. If required, it is possible for a separate engine which is configured as an internal combustion engine to be connected or fastened releasably via an interface to the assembly arrangement and to be coupled to the assembly arrangement for drive action, in order to supply the at least one auxiliary assembly and/or the electric machine with rotational drive moment. |
| US08876655B2 |
Friction launch strategy for a motor vehicle powertrain
A control strategy for launching a motor vehicle includes using an electric motor to provide high torque at low speeds during synchronization of launch clutches. An internal combustion engine is started and connected with the electric motor to provide additional torque capacity. Selective engagement and disengagement of an engine disconnect clutch prevents the engine start from interfering with the motor vehicle launch. |
| US08876642B2 |
U-shaped chain guide bracket
One exemplary embodiment includes a U-shaped chain guide bracket including a base wall extending in a longitudinal direction from an upstream end to a downstream end of the base wall, and a pair of laterally opposed side walls extending away from the base wall and having laterally opposed mounting pads and apertures. The base wall and opposed side walls establish an upstream end, a downstream end, a central portion between the upstream and downstream ends, and a general U-shaped cross-section at least at each of the upstream and downstream ends and at the central portion. The bracket is formed from sheet metal. |
| US08876640B2 |
Archery arrow having improved flight characteristics
The archery arrow having improved flight characteristics of the present invention is designed to improve the accuracy of the arrow which is equipped with a dampening medium within the central bore of the arrow shaft. The dampening materials in an embodiment may include, but not be limited to, silicon, epoxies or urethanes and selection of various dampening materials may provide for varying degrees of stiffness. The dampening effects of internal dampening materials decrease the initial deflection distance of the arrow and also serves to decrease the deflection with each oscillation. In addition, the dampening medium adopted in the present invention provides for an arrow having a selectable center of gravity location that has improved flight characteristics. Thus, the dampening materials adopted in the present invention provide for a selected location of center of gravity and a desired attenuation of oscillations. |
| US08876638B2 |
Real time pitch classification
A method for performing pitch classification includes receiving, at a computing device, one or more pitch properties corresponding to a ball thrown by a pitcher. Pitcher information corresponding to the pitcher is also received. The pitcher information includes at least an identification of one or more pitches that are in a repertoire of the pitcher. A classification of the pitch is determined using at least a pitch classification algorithm, where the classification of the pitch is based at least in part on the one or more pitch properties and at least in part on the pitcher information. |
| US08876636B2 |
Lacrosse cradleball
A lacrosse practice ball having a tether extending from the ball and attaching to a lacrosse stick to enable practicing of cradling or other short-range maneuvers is disclosed. In some embodiments, the tether extends from the ball by between 12-24 inches. The ball can have two channels passing through the middle of the ball and offset from one another by an angle, and the tether can pass through the channels. The tether forms a loop that can be knotted to secure the tether to the ball with the knot positioned within one of the channels. The practice ball can secure to any portion of the lacrosse stick using the tether. |
| US08876635B1 |
Golf ball with dual core and thermoplastic polyurethane cover
A golf ball comprising a core comprising an inner core center and an outer core layer disposed over the inner core center. The inner core center has a deflection of greater than 0.210 inch under a load of 100 kilograms and the core has a deflection ranging from 0.120 inch to 0.090 inch under a load of 200 pounds. An inner mantle layer is disposed over the core, an outer mantle is disposed over the inner mantle layer, and a cover is disposed over the outer mantle. |
| US08876634B2 |
Golf club head
A golf club head according to this invention includes a face portion, a crown portion having a shape which bulges out upward, and a sole portion. The crown portion includes a vibration promotion region and a surrounding region which surrounds the vibration promotion region. The vibration promotion region has a circular or elliptical shape, and is flatter than the surrounding region. |
| US08876632B2 |
Multi-piece golf club heads formed from titanium and zirconium alloys
A golf club head and a method for forming a golf club head are disclosed. The golf club head may include multiple components with varying densities to manipulate the weight, volume, and properties of the golf club head. |
| US08876626B2 |
Golf club
Disclosed is a golf club having a structure with which optional angle adjustment can be easily and firmly performed by a user himself/herself without changing the direction of a shaft along the circumference thereof with respect to a head. To this end, the distal end portion of the shaft to which a plug member is fixed is fitted into a shaft insertion hole of a hosel portion from above, an angle adjusting member is fitted from below, and a fixing bolt is fitted into a bolt insertion hole of the angle adjusting member and screwed into an internal thread portion of the plug member. A radial clearance is left between the outer circumferential surface of a lower end portion of the plug member fitted into the shaft insertion hole and the inner circumferential surface of the shaft insertion hole corresponding to the outer circumferential surface, and a spacer portion partially formed on the angle adjusting member along the circumference of the angle adjusting member is fitted into a part of the radial clearance along the circumference of the radial clearance. The fixing angle of the head body with respect to the shaft can be adjusted by the circumferential position of the spacer portion fitted into the radial clearance. |
| US08876622B2 |
Golf club head
A golf club head comprises a sole, a recessed sole port in the sole; and a rotatably adjustable sole piece adapted to be at least partially received within the sole port and comprising a central body having a plurality of contact surfaces adapted to contact the sole port and being offset from each other along a central axis extending through the central body of the sole piece. The sole piece can be positioned at least partially within the sole port at five or more rotational and axial positions with respect to the central axis, wherein at each rotational position, at least one of said contact surfaces of the central body contacts the sole port to set the axial position of the sole piece. The sole port and/or the sole piece can be generally pentagonal in shape. |
| US08876619B2 |
Apparatus and method for catching a golf ball
An apparatus and method for catching a golf ball is disclosed herein. More specifically, the present invention discloses a compact golf ball catching apparatus having a first energy absorbing layer located at a frontal portion of the apparatus, a second energy absorbing layer located at a rear portion of the apparatus, and a frame adapted to connect the first and second energy absorbing layer as well as provide structural integrity to the first energy absorbing layer; wherein the first energy absorbing layer slows down the speed of a golf ball as it enters and penetrates the apparatus and hinders the golf ball's ability from exiting the apparatus post impact. |
| US08876618B1 |
Cue stick for billiards sports
A cue stick for billiards sports has a forearm with an elongated inner cavity that is filled with a filling material. The filling material may be cork, or a similar material that is resilient and/or deformable to provide improved dynamic characteristics upon striking a cue ball. The forearm may also include an improved geometric structure at its joint end which connects with the shaft, whereby an outer housing of the forearm has a solid construction at its joint end with a joint collar affixed thereto. |
| US08876615B2 |
Playground equipment driving motor-placement device and rotating playground equipment
Provided are a driving motor-placement device to be used in rotating playground equipment that is superior in terms of maintenance, and rotating playground equipment. The disclosed playground equipment driving motor-placement device is characterized in that it is provided with a lower stationary component and an upper rotator; the lower stationary component is provided with a stationary plate that can be removed from the playground equipment and a shaft that stands upright on said stationary plate; the upper rotator is configured to be able to rotate around the shaft of said lower stationary component and is provided with a handle support that supports handles that users can grasp, and a driving motor support that supports the driving motor; said driving motor support is provided above the handle support; and a coupling that transmits the rotation of the driving motor to the shaft of the lower stationary component is fixed to the top of said shaft. |
| US08876612B2 |
Replaceable cosmetic panels for machine cabinets
A machine cabinet system is provided. The system includes a machine cabinet with a top face and a front face. In one embodiment, a removable panel is included that is removably coupled to at least one of the top face and the front face of the machine cabinet. In another embodiment, the removable panel is removably coupled to the machine cabinet without use of a tool. |
| US08876609B2 |
Method of executing video game in mobile terminal and system for performing the same
A game execution method and system of a mobile terminal includes an Internet-based device synchronized with at least one mobile terminal through a game server and receiving a specific game screen that is requested from the mobile terminal from the game server to display. The game server synchronizes the Internet-based device with the at least one mobile terminal and transmits return data with respect to an input signal of manipulating the specific game to the mobile terminal. The mobile terminal downloads and executes game data, transmitting to the game server the input signal of manipulating the specific game, and executes an effect function corresponding to the return data. |
| US08876606B2 |
User-centric method of aggregating information sources to reinforce digital identity
Systems and methods for providing a digital identity or profile in a gaming console that communicates to a remote service. A “Gamer Profile” is created that serves as a building block for services and applications that aim to create a social community of gamers and grow relationships among players. In accordance with the present invention, the Gamer Profile is the entirety of information (e.g., metadata) related to a specific user. The Gamer Profile is developed from a set of services that collect and expose this information in a meaningful way to the community. Feedback information may be included that is provided by other users to further enhance the profile. The Gamer Profile also provides for personalization such that users can customize their gaming experience. |
| US08876605B2 |
Gaming system having dynamically changing image reel symbols
A system for dynamically changing the graphical content on video reel displays of video gaming machines is disclosed herein. The system includes video reel displays and data transmission techniques which provide for dynamically updating or changing the graphics on the video reel displays. In one system for dynamically changing graphical video reel content, new image content is placed on the video reel displays at any time, even while the video reel displays are spinning The system may even be used to give the appearance of rotation to a stationary video reel display. |
| US08876602B2 |
Game machine, and control method and storage medium storing computer program used therefor
Improved is the control of travel speed of operation indication marker in the case that the case that the delay in detection of operation time occurs. The game machine makes the object (60) pump between the reference portions (55A, 55B) corresponding to the operation portions of online opponent players, and makes the player of the own game machine perform the operation portion at the time when the object (60) reaches the reference portion (55A). The game machine determines whether the detection delay of operation time occurs. When the delay occurs, the game machine estimates as the original distance, the distance from the object (60) to the next arrival position (R1b) assuming that the delay did not occur (the distance on the path R2-CR1b), and the display of the object (60) is corrected so that the difference between the original distance estimated and the actual distance from the object (60) to the next arrival position (the distance on the path A, C, R1b) is eliminated earlier than the operation time corresponding to the next arrival position (R1b). |
| US08876601B2 |
Method and apparatus for providing a multi-screen based multi-dimension game service
A method and apparatus provides a multi-screen based multi-dimensional game service using a home network and a home server. The method includes determining a resolution of a game screen to be served based on terminal information provided from a user terminal, storing a view on a user location in a multi-dimensional shared game space as a game session, generating an object for the view based on the determined resolution, performing multi-view rendering using multi-dimensional scene data and a user game input, capturing video and audio generated through the multi-view rendering, encoding the captured video and audio, and transmitting encoded video and audio to the user terminal. |
| US08876599B2 |
Gaming machine having interchangeable display content
Various embodiments disclosed herein are directed to methods, gaming machines, and gaming systems with multiple displays having interchangeable display content. According to one embodiment, a gaming machine includes a first display for presenting a primary game, a second display for presenting secondary display content to a player, and a player input device for receiving player input to configure content displayed on the first display and the second display such that the first display presents the secondary display content and the second display presents the primary game. |
| US08876596B2 |
Virtualized magnetic player card
A patron registered with a player tracking system (loyalty program) of a casino can use an app on a mobile device to log into the player tracking system, receive a virtual player card PIN from the system, and enter the PIN at a gaming machine at the casino to begin player tracked game play with the use of a physical player tracking card. The patron can log into the player tracking system from any location that has cellular data network coverage or Internet access. Once at the casino, the patron retrieves the virtual player card PIN from the app and enters it using a service window interface on the gaming machine to begin game play that credits the patron's loyalty program account. This is done without having to insert a physical card into the card bezel at the machine. |
| US08876595B2 |
Mobile device to security event association in gaming environments
A system that tracks information related to security events in a gaming environment includes a plurality of gaming machines, a database storing data regarding security events, and a security event tracking server in communication with the gaming machines and database. Each gaming machine can have an electronic tracking device adapted to detect wirelessly identifying information from portable electronic devices proximate the gaming machine with respect to the occurrence of a security event at or near the gaming machine. The server includes a processor configured to receive information regarding security events and mobile device identifying information, associate the security events with the identifying information, and store the associated security events and identifying information to the database. Mobile device identifying information can be detected passively without any affirmative input by any user of the mobile devices. Patterns of repeated mobile device detections associated with multiple security events can be determined. |
| US08876593B2 |
Progressive betting pools
Progressive betting pools are provided. A betting administrator may define a set of competition-based events upon which to wager. For example, a set of six soccer matches that occur during a week may be defined as being available for wagering. Each wager may include specifications as to the winner of each of the selected matches. In some embodiments, the wagering individual may be requested to specify certain tie-breaking metrics (e.g., rank the teams by number of goals), which may be considered in the event of a tie between two or more wagers. The wager may be available for a limited window of time. Following which, the outcomes of the competition-based events may be decided and provided to a server, which determines one or more winners and calculates payouts for the determined winners. |
| US08876592B2 |
Enhancements offering perceived value for community wagering game
A gaming system and a method for conducting a wagering game includes a first gaming terminal and a second gaming terminal. The gaming system includes at least two input devices, at least two display devices and at least one processor. The processor operates to display primary wagering games to the first and second gaming terminals in response to receiving one or more wagers at the respective gaming terminals. A first perceived-value enhancement is displayed to the first gaming terminal. The first perceived-value enhancement is active for a first limited period of time and is capable of enhancing a subsequent bonus event. A bonus event is triggered and provided to at least one of the first and second gaming terminals. An enhanced bonus event is provided to the first gaming terminal in response to the bonus event triggered for the first gaming terminal while the first perceived-value enhancement is active. |
| US08876582B2 |
Ventilation device
A ventilation device comprises: a body, a fan disposed In the body, and an adapter connected with an air outlet of the body. Two or more pipe coupling parts are disposed in sequence from a side of an air Inlet of the adapter to a side of an air outlet of the adapter, and each pipe coupling part is provided with a protruding circular ring with a diameter larger than that of the respective pipe coupling part at a root thereof. An air guide structure Is disposed in the adapter, a pipe is fitted over the pipe coupling part and Is abutted against the protruding circular ring located at the root to be fixed, and the air guide structure Is engaged to an inside of the protruding circular ring of the adapter. |
| US08876581B2 |
Supply air terminal device
A supply air terminal device (10) has a supply air chamber (12), into which fresh air is conducted from out of doors and further from it through a nozzle gap or nozzles (12a1, 12a2 . . . ) into a mixing chamber (14). The fresh supply air (L1) induces a circulated airflow (L2) from a room (H) to flow through a heat exchanger (13) into the mixing chamber (14). The combined airflow (L1+L2) combined in the device solution of the fresh supply air (L1) and the room air (L2) flow is made to flow from the mixing chamber (14) into a room space (H) or other such. The mixing chamber (14) of the supply air terminal device (10) has in the mixing chamber (14) or in connection with this in a flow passage (14′) a film element (15), preferably a film-like electric resistance. |
| US08876580B2 |
Uniform flow supply duct and associated method of sizing restrictor plates
A supply duct is provided for supplying a gaseous fluid at a constant flow rate per unit length of the duct. The supply duct includes a main compartment, at least one nozzle disposed in the main compartment, and a plurality of restrictors extending from an inner wall of the main compartment. The main compartment of the supply duct has a generally constant cross-section. Each nozzle in the main compartment defines an outlet to allow a gaseous fluid to flow out from the main compartment. Each restrictor is configured to produce a flow rate through the nozzle at the first end of the main compartment that is substantially equal to the flow rate through the nozzle at the second end of the main compartment. The restrictor may be, for example, a restrictor plate. A method of sizing restrictor plates is also provided. |
| US08876575B2 |
Microneedle and method of manufacturing microneedle
A method of manufacturing a microneedle including forming a plurality of first linear grooves on a substrate in parallel to one another along a first direction using grinding and forming a plurality of second linear grooves on the substrate in parallel to one another in a second direction intersecting the first direction using grinding. At least one of the forming of a plurality of first linear grooves and the forming of a plurality of second linear grooves includes forming first stage grooves using a first dicing blade; and processing the first stage grooves by tracing the first stage grooves using a second dicing blade having a side surface different from that of the first dicing blade to thereby form second stage grooves. |
| US08876572B2 |
Toy vehicle launching ramp and landing ramp
A toy vehicle launching ramp and landing ramp is a toy vehicle track set that includes a launching ramp or track portion and a landing or receiving ramp or track portion. The toy vehicle track set also includes a booster or launcher which can propel or launch a toy vehicle onto the launching ramp, into the air, and onto the landing ramp. Further the set includes at least one elongate member with distance indicia, such that a user can measure the distance between the launcher and launching ramp, the launching ramp and receiving ramp, or some combination thereof. The toy vehicle track set enhances the play value of toy vehicle track sets by providing reliable and measurable jumps. |
| US08876559B2 |
Electronic device and switch method thereof
An electronic device including a switch unit and a socket is provided. The switch unit has an output end, a first input end, a second input end and a control end. The control end is coupled to the first input end. The socket has an intake cavity on which a first terminal and a second terminal are disposed. The first terminal is electrically connected to the first input end, and the second terminal is electrically connected to the second input end. When the intake cavity holds a plug and the control end receives a high level voltage, the control end switches the first input end to the output end. When the control end receives a ground voltage, the control end switches the second input end to the output end. |
| US08876558B2 |
Electrical connector
An electrical connector includes a base board having a plurality of first contact pads and second contact pads exposed on one end of the base board, a plurality of first terminals each having one end thereof connected with the corresponding first contact pad of the base board, a plurality of second terminals each having one end thereof arranged alternately with the first terminals and connected with the corresponding second contact pad of the base board, and an insulating housing having a window. The other end of the first terminal is slanted downward at an angle and then curved upward back to form a barb-like contact portion. The other end of the second terminal defines a contact protrusion. The base board together with the first terminals and the second terminals are disposed in the insulating housing. The contact portions and the contact protrusions are exposed outside through the window. |
| US08876555B2 |
Vehicle ground-contacting element forming a hollow body and method for manufacturing such a ground-contacting element
The invention relates to a vehicle ground-contacting element (1) comprising two shell-shaped portions (11,12) assembled together into at least one first (13a) and one second (13b) contact area such as to form a rigid hollow body, such that the first contact area (13a) is made up of a contact surface (18a) extending a first edge of the first shell (11) and a contact surface (19a) extending a first edge of the second shell (12), said two contact surfaces (18a, 19a) of the first contact area (13a) engaging with one another and extending the first edges in a first direction (X), the second contact areas (13b) being made up of a contact surface (18b) extending a second edge of the first shell (11) and a contact surface (19b) extending a second edge of the second shell (12), said two contact surfaces (18a, 19a) of the second contact area (13b) engaging with one another and extending the second edges in a second direction (Z), the first direction (X) and the second direction (Z) being oriented substantially perpendicular to one another. |
| US08876554B2 |
Shielding terminal clamp
A shielding terminal clamp including a first side piece having a first guide device disposed along the first side piece, a second side piece, a U-shaped yoke having a base part having a second guide means disposed along the second side piece, an elastic element is disposed between the first side piece and the second side piece such that a compressive force is exerted onto a pressure piece that is movably mounted between the first and second guide means, and a first wing and second wing disposed on the pressure piece, wherein the first and second wings are configured to generate a counterforce with the fingers of a human hand against the compressive force and thereby compress the elastic element. |
| US08876553B2 |
Aluminum tube coaxial cable connector
An aluminum tube coaxial cable connector for CATV applications is disclosed to include a tubular screw member having locating notches at the rear end, a T-shaped insulative stopper and an insulative insert mounted in the tubular screw member to hold a conducting core, an inner tube having lugs protruded from a front rim thereof and engaged into the locating notches of the tubular screw member to prohibit relative rotation between the tubular screw member and the inner tube, a packing component set mounted around the inner tube, and a casing threaded onto the tubular screw member to compress the packing component set and to further lock an inserted aluminum tube coaxial cable to the aluminum tube coaxial cable connector. |
| US08876552B2 |
Coaxial connector
A coaxial connector includes a contact, a housing, and a ground shell. The contact includes a first wall portion in which an insertion groove into which an inner conductor of a coaxial cable is to be inserted is formed. The housing includes a body portion in which an accommodation hole which accommodates the contact is formed and a middle cover portion which closes the housing hole. A surface on the rear-end side of the middle cover portion and a surface on the rear-end side of the first wall portion substantially overlap with each other in a plan view thereof. |
| US08876550B1 |
Connector having a grounding member
A coaxial cable connector includes, in one embodiment, a conductive body member, a post member, a conductive nut member and a conductive metal ring grounding member. The conductive metal ring grounding member is configured to maintain electrical grounding. |
| US08876547B1 |
Socket for LED light string
A socket is provided for an LED light string and is formed by jointing two unsymmetrical casing members through thermal fusion by application of ultrasonic wave to thereby securely combine with electrical wires and a luminous element. The first and second casing members are provided with raised-and-recessed inter-engageable structures including holes and protrusions and multiple tiny bosses that is thermally fusible through application of ultrasonic wave for adhesion purposes. The first casing member includes a receiving channel for receiving electrical wires therein and the second casing member includes hold-down blocks and holding blocks for holding the electrical wires in position. |
| US08876546B2 |
Connector having a cable tray with a finger with a protrusion
A connector includes a cable tray configured to receive and retain a cable in a stable position and couple with a top cap configured to create an electrical connection with the cable as the top cap is manipulated in a predetermined manner while coupled with the cable tray. An upper surface of the cable tray is configured to receive the cable. The cable tray also includes a finger extending beyond the first end for some distance longitudinally. The finger includes a protrusion that protrudes to some extent in a transverse direction so that a cable-accommodating gap is defined between the protrusion and the first end. The protrusion is configured to bear against the cable and retain the cable in the stable position when the cable is inserted between the protrusion and the first end (before, during and/or after an electrical connection is established). |
| US08876541B1 |
Power plug
A power plug includes an insulating housing in which a receiving barrel is crossed, top and bottom covers covering top and bottom ends of the receiving barrel, a sliding strip slidably located between the top and bottom covers with serrated sliding teeth protruding on two opposite sides thereof, two rotating axles located at two sides of the sliding strip with rotating teeth protruding on two relative insides thereof and meshed with the sliding teeth, two plug pins vertically integrated in the rotating axles and a rotating ring sheathing outside the receiving barrel with two pushing blocks protruding at an inside wall thereof. The pushing blocks project into the receiving barrel and are against two ends of the sliding strip to push the sliding strip to slide by rotating the rotating ring so as to drive the rotating axles together with the plug pins to rotate relatively. |
| US08876539B2 |
Plug for an electrical plug-and-socket connection
Plug for an electrical plug-and-socket connection having embedded plug contacts being connected with wires leading to the electrical circuit of a vehicle. Plug openings of the plug body in front of the plug contacts for inserting contacts of a socket into the plug openings thereby providing electrical connection between the socket contacts and the plug contacts. A dissolving arm having a lift part and a handling part, the arm being rotatably at a bearing such that upon pressing down the handling part of the dissolving arm in the direction towards the plug body, the lift part of the dissolving arm lifted away from the plug body for lifting a cover of the socket overlying on the plug body and the lift part of the dissolving arm when the plug is being inserted into the socket. |
| US08876537B2 |
Electrical junction box
An electrical junction box (10) has a box body (84) is formed by combining a first case (12) and a second case (14). The first case (12) is provided with a receptacle (18) that houses a connector (20). The second case (14) has a connector lock (50) that fixes the connector (20) in the receptacle (18) and a vehicle fixing portion (68) that fixes the box body (84) to a vehicle attachment portion (78). |
| US08876534B1 |
Apparatus and methods for lighting synthetic terrain images
A method for pilot situational awareness comprises calculating a location; providing terrain data for the calculated location; processing the terrain data and positioning a light source generally proximal to a view point of a pilot data to generate a synthetic image, the synthetic image representing an appearance of the terrain data illuminated by an appearance of the light source positioned generally proximal to the view point of the pilot; and displaying the synthetic image. |
| US08876529B2 |
Diversion of mechanical oscillations
A device according to the invention for deflecting mechanical oscillations, at an oscillation receiver location may be set into oscillation along a first axis, and transmits such an oscillation into an oscillation along a second axis at an oscillation output location, wherein the first and the second axis form an angle to one another. The device in characterized essentially by the fact that it includes an elongate, bent oscillation element, on whose one end a coupling-in point and at whose other end a coupling-out point is arranged, wherein the device is designed in a manner such that the oscillation element oscillates transversally at the coupling-in point and at the coupling-out point, when the oscillation receiver location is subjected to an oscillation. |
| US08876528B2 |
Appliance for delivering liquid to a gas stream for creating droplets in a dental cleaner
A dental appliance having a passive arrangement for drawing liquid from a reservoir (22, 33, 54) in the appliance by action of a stream of gas, which can be provided by a source of compressed gas (31, 34) or other system. The liquid mixes with the gas, resulting in liquid droplets which are directed through an orifice (18, 42, 68) at the end of a nozzle portion (12, 39, 66) of the appliance. |
| US08876526B2 |
Delivery chute for sinter material
A delivery chute for delivering sinter material onto a sinter cooler and a method for delivering sinter material from a sinter belt onto a sinter cooler are provided. The sinter material introduced into the delivery chute may be divided by distributor plates into at least two sinter material subflows flowing in different directions, which may be guided into the edge regions of a sinter material total flow obtained by combining them. |
| US08876524B2 |
Furnace with modulating firing rate adaptation
A furnace is disclosed that includes a burner with a firing rate that is variable between a minimum and a maximum firing rate. After a call for heat is received, the firing rate is set to an initial level above the minimum firing rate, and the burner is ignited. The firing rate is then modulated downward toward the minimum firing rate. If the flame is lost during or after modulation, the burner is reignited and the firing rate is maintained above the firing rate at which the flame was lost until the current call for heat is satisfied. In some cases, the firing rate is maintained until one or more subsequent calls for heat are satisfied. |
| US08876523B2 |
Injection molding apparatus
Provided is an injection molding apparatus including: an upper mold; a lower mold; a receive block; a fixed block; a movable block; a variable cavity; a movable block adjusting unit; and an ejector pipe. |
| US08876522B2 |
Injection molding machine with integrated part handling apparatus
An injection molding machine comprises: a machine base having a top surface, and a pair of platens supported on the top surface of the machine base, at least one of the platens translatable along a machine axis between open and closed positions. An end-effector is moveable relative to the machine base between an advanced position and a retracted position for interacting with parts associated with production in the injection molding machine. An upright has a lower end adjustably coupled to the machine base and an upper end spaced apart from the top surface of the machine base and coupled to the end-effector. |
| US08876521B2 |
Method and apparatus for making centre-filled shaped food products
The present invention relates to an apparatus for making a food product (2), said product having a solid outer shell (3) with top (4), bottom (5) and side (6) walls, and optionally an inner core (7) filled with liquid, semi-solid and/or solid filling, characterized in that said apparatus comprises: (i) a support frame (8) holding at least one matrix (9) that goes through said support frame (8) and has opposed openings, (ii) two punches (11a, 11b) disposed respectively each side of said matrix (9) and facing said openings, said punches having a cross section that corresponds to the cross section of said openings, and being movable along a common axis that corresponds to the longitudinal axis of said matrix, said matrix and said pair of punches defining respectively the side and the end walls of a mold (12), (iii) filling means for filling the mold (12), with a predetermined quantity of food product in a liquid or semi-solid form, (iv) actuating means for moving said punches (11a, 11b) and exerting a longitudinal pressure onto said punches when said mold (12), is filled with food product and closed so that said product contained into said mold is compressed, (v) ejecting means for ejecting a molded food product (2), out of the mold (12), once the latter is in the open position. |
| US08876520B2 |
Fabric wrap
A dimpled fabric creation system and method is provided to form a dimpled fabric using a mold or machine having a plurality of protrusions and grooves, while avoiding the repetitive steps to manually shape each protrusion individually by tying portions of fabric individually. The protrusions may be of complex three dimensional shapes to form dimples in the fabric having corresponding complex three dimensional shapes. The system and method provide for creation of a dimpled fabric container, wherein the dimpled fabric container may be utilized in gift wrapping. |
| US08876516B2 |
Pellet press for producing pellets
The invention relates to a pellet press for producing pellets (10), there being in the pellet press (3) at least one die (4) having a multiplicity of holes (13) for compressing the biomass (1), at least one roll (5) rolling on the die (4) and at least one drive device for the die (4) and/or the roll (5). The aim of the invention is to produce a pellet press in which it is possible to eliminate local damage or partial wear of the die with the least possible effort or to make it easier to replace the die with a spare part. The invention consists of at least two die segments (7, 7′ . . . ) being arranged as the die (4), at least one supporting device (9) being arranged to support the die segments (7, 7′ . . . ) with respect to the roll (5), and the supporting device (9) having at least one aperture (8) for the pellets (10) emerging from the holes (13) in the die (4) to be led through. |
| US08876514B2 |
Mold used for manufacturing composite material structure
In a mold used for manufacturing a composite material structure of the present invention, first segments and second segments each having a plate shape and a convex-shaped obverse surface are each fastened at its end surface to support rings one by one, with the obverse surface being at an upper side, and adjacent segments are joined together at side surfaces thereof, to retain them as a cylindrical mold. In this configuration, in the mold having a substantially cylindrical shape and being dividable into a plurality of segments, the segments are assembled in the cylindrical shape with high position accuracy and in a simplified manner. |
| US08876513B2 |
Selective deposition modeling using CW UV LED curing
A continuous-wave (CW) ultraviolet (UV) curing system for solid freeform fabrication (SFF) is provided, wherein the curing system is configured to provide an exposure of UV radiation for one or more layers of UV-curable material. One or more UV exposures may initiate curing of a curable material in the layer dispensed by a solid freeform fabrication apparatus. One approach to provide the single or multiple UV exposures is the use of one or more UV LEDs, which generate UV radiation without generating any substantial amounts of infrared (IR) radiation at the same time. This allows for the curing process to be energy efficient and also allows for the SFF system to be far less complex. |
| US08876511B2 |
Metering feeder, and system and method for kneading and extruding material
A system for kneading and extruding a material includes a crusher for crushing the material into coarse particles, an extruder for conveying and extruding the material crushed by the crusher, a gear pump for receiving and discharging the material extruded from the extruder, and a kneading and extruding apparatus for kneading the material discharged from the gear pump and continuously extruding the kneaded material. Therefore, a material is accurately quantified and highly uniform, resulting in reduced product variations and ensured consistent quality. |
| US08876509B2 |
Cryogenic cooling system
An apparatus according to various embodiments can be configured to use a cryogen for cooling articles, particularly having applications for chilling extrusions. The apparatus removes thermal energy from an article by conductive and convective heat transfer. The apparatus allows for heat transfer from an outer surface of an article, and from an inner surface of the article. |
| US08876507B2 |
Tire mold
A tire mold comprising a pair of side plates, a pair of bead rings abutting on the side plates, and a gas venting passage, wherein each of the bead rings has: a cavity surface; an outer side surface; and an outer peripheral surface having two regions, wherein a first and second outer peripheral surface adjoins the cavity surface. A first gap is lying between the first outer peripheral surface and the side plate by the presence of a knurled groove. A second gap is lying between the second outer peripheral surface and the side plate. A third gap is lying between the outer side surface and the side plate by the presence of a plurality of vent grooves. The first to third gaps function as the gas venting passage. |
| US08876504B2 |
Pump rotor combining and eccentrically disposing an inner and outer rotor
An object is to meet the demands for increasing the number of teeth of a rotor in an internal gear pump while maintaining a theoretical discharge amount by using an equivalent body configuration so as to enhance the pump performance relating to discharge pulsation due to the increased number of teeth. In a pump rotor 1 formed by combining of an inner rotor (2) having N teeth and an outer rotor (3) having (N+1) teeth and disposing the rotors eccentrically relative to each other, the relational expression φDmax<1.7e·sin(π/180)/sin {π/(180·N)} is satisfied, φDmax being a maximum value of a working pitch diameter of the inner rotor (2) and the outer rotor (3), and a working position (G) of the inner rotor (2) and the outer rotor (3) is always located rearward of an eccentric axis (CL) in a rotating direction of the rotor. |
| US08876501B2 |
Electric pump unit
A motor housing that accommodates a pump-driving electric motor and a controller that controls the electric motor is fixed to a pump body of a pump that sucks and discharges oil. A sealed motor chamber that accommodates the electric motor is formed within the motor housing. A cooling oil is filled in the motor chamber. |
| US08876498B2 |
Pumps and pump-heads with separately removable field-serviceable portion
An exemplary pump-head includes a pump housing having first and second housing portions forming a pump-cavity and a magnet-cavity. The pump-cavity contains a movable pumping element, and the magnet-cavity contains a driven magnet coupled to the movable pumping element. The magnet is driven by a moving external magnetic field, which correspondingly moves the pumping element in the pump-cavity in a pumping manner. The second housing portion has inlet and outlet ports and defines at least respective portions of the magnet-cavity and pump-cavity. The first housing portion is detachable from the second housing portion to allow the pumping element to be accessed and carried away with the first housing portion, without disturbing the second housing portion. |
| US08876493B2 |
Fan motor and blower including the same motor
A fan motor includes a pair of fans axially mounted to both sides of a rotary shaft of the motor. The motor includes an inner rotor placed inside a stator wound with windings and an outer rotor placed outside the stator. The motor thus has a dual-rotor structure where the inner rotor and the outer rotor are held such that both the rotors can rotate on the rotary shaft. |
| US08876490B2 |
Hydro-pneumatic system with pressure limiting valve
A hydro-pneumatic system has an air powered motor driving a hydraulic pump with a pressure limiting valve that turns off air flow to the air motor when a hydraulic pressure output by the pump at a sense port of the valve reaches a certain limit. A valve element of the valve has spring, hydraulic and pneumatic sections, with an unbalanced area of the hydraulic section in a sealed pressure chamber of a cartridge that is part of the valve housing. The pneumatic section extends out one end of the cartridge to fill a bore between the air inlet and outlet ports when the pneumatic section is extended, and allow air to pass when it is retracted. |
| US08876482B2 |
Electrical grounding for blade sheath
A blade for use in a gas turbine engine has an airfoil including a leading edge and a trailing edge. A sheath is positioned at the leading edge and secured to the airfoil by a first adhesive formed of a first material. The sheath is formed of a second material that is distinct from said first material. The first material is less electrically conductive than the second material. A grounding element is in contact with the sheath. The grounding element is in contact with a portion of the airfoil formed of a third material that is more electrically conductive than the first material. The grounding element and the portion of the airfoil together form a ground path from the sheath into the airfoil. |
| US08876480B2 |
Reinforcing element for use with a ventilator hub
In order to provide a ventilator hub having coupling elements for connecting to a ventilator spindle and an essentially cylindrical fastening section having radial adapters for a number of ventilator blades, whereby the fastening section has an inner casing surface that ensures fastening of the ventilator blades with sufficient tensile strength, even at high temperatures, such as they can occur in tunnel fires, without thereby having an undesirably high mass, it is proposed to provide the ventilator hub with an essentially annular, closed reinforcement element having coupling elements for fastening the ventilator blades with high tensile strength, that is designed essentially separate from the fastening section. |
| US08876478B2 |
Turbine blade combined damper and sealing pin and related method
A damper pin for a turbine bucket includes an elongated main body portion having a first substantially uniform cross-sectional shape and axially-aligned, leading and trailing end portions having a second relatively smaller cross-sectional shape at opposite ends of the main body portion. A seal element is provided on one or both of the opposite leading and trailing end portions projecting radially outwardly beyond the main body portion. |
| US08876461B2 |
Series fan assembling structure
A series fan assembling structure includes a first main body and a second main body. A first reception recess, a first engagement body, a first reception section and a second reception section are respectively disposed in four corners of one end of the first main body. A second reception recess, a second engagement body, a first raised body and a second raised body are respectively disposed in four corners of one end of the second main body. The first and second engagement bodies and the first and second raised bodies are respectively correspondingly latched and engaged with the first and second reception recesses and the first and second reception sections, whereby the series fan can be quickly assembled and the shake can be minimized. |
| US08876460B2 |
Method and apparatus for measuring turbine shell clearance
An apparatus for measuring turbine rotor-to-stator clearances and a method for assembling a turbomachine based on the measured clearances are disclosed. In an embodiment, at least one clearance sensor is inserted into a stator of a turbomachine. Using the sensor, tops-on clearance between a rotor blade tip and an inner surface of a stator is measured while an upper stator shell, a rotor, a lower stator shell are assembled together; and a tops-off clearance is measured while the lower stator shell and a rotor are assembled together. A tops-on/tops-off shift, i.e., a difference between the tops-on clearance and the tops-off clearance, is determined. The turbine can be assembled by adjusting a relative position of the rotor and stator to account for the tops-on/tops-off shift. |
| US08876458B2 |
Blade outer air seal assembly and support
An example blade outer air seal support assembly includes a main support member configured to support a blade outer air seal. The main support member extends generally axially between a leading edge portion and a trailing edge portion. The leading edge portion is configured to be slidably received within a groove established by the blade outer air seal. A support tab extends radially from the support member toward the blade outer air seal. The support tab is configured to contact an extension of the blade outer air seal to limit relative axial movement of the blade outer air seal. A gusset spans between the support tab and the support member. |
| US08876455B2 |
Pull and lift system for transporting roofing materials
The pull and lift system for transporting roofing materials includes a pull bar upon a flat bed of a truck, two rams connecting to the pull bar, controls for the rams, two pairs of mutually spaced apart legs, a table connecting between the pairs of legs, at least one ram connecting to the table, and controls for this ram. The first controls engage the pull bar against a pallet then draw it towards the table. The pull bar has an L shaped cross section with the lower portion sliding upon the flat bed and the upper portion engaging a pallet. The table has a first position coplanar with the flat bed and a second position above the flat bed and proximate a conveyor. The table elevates, while loaded with cargo, and remains level during its transition from the first position to the second position. |
| US08876451B2 |
High-strength bolt
Provided is a high-strength bolt which has a tensile strength of 1,200 MPa or more while exhibiting excellent ductility and delayed facture resistance, and further has an excellent impact toughness which had not been obtained in the conventional high-strength bolt. The high-strength bolt has a tensile strength of 1.2 GPa or more and includes a threaded portion and cylindrical neck portion. The bolt has K of 0.8 or more and satisfies Ho |
| US08876450B1 |
Locknut with cage
A locknut includes a body, a locking element, and a cage. The body has a threaded portion and an unthreaded portion. The locking element includes a coil portion having first and second tangs. The locking element is positioned within the cage, and the cage is secured within the unthreaded portion of the body. The cage includes first and second stops, and the first and second tangs of the coil are proximate the stops to be engaged by the stops during rotation of the locknut. |
| US08876449B2 |
Plug with fixing element and sleeve
The invention relates to a fixing device for anchoring in a building material, comprising a fixing element with an axial conical anchoring region and a fixing region and a radially flexible clamping sleeve which may be clamped between the anchoring region and the building material. The invention further relates to a method for anchoring the fixing device. |
| US08876444B1 |
Depth limiting device for a boring tool
A depth limiting device for a boring tool having stop collar includes housing and a sleeve. The housing provides snap on attachment onto the stop collar, allowing for a free axial rotation of the said housing around the body of the stop collar. The housing and the sleeve have a threaded engagement for adjusting position relative to one another and thereby adjusting length of the working portion of boring tool. Coupled housing and sleeve are freely rotatable with respect to the body of the stop collar and cease to rotate when operator achieves desirable depth of drilling and the device is pressed against the work-piece surface. The structural interrelationship prevents marring of the surface of the work-piece. |
| US08876439B2 |
Particulate handling apparatus and method
A particulate handling apparatus (1) and method which is suitable for the transfer of kinetic energy from particles of transported particulate material and which lessens the damage suffered by said particulate material by the removal of that kinetic energy. The apparatus includes baffles (9) to reduce the kinetic energy and which are within a shaped vessel into which particulate material is fed through entry port (3) and from which the particulates are removed by exit port (4). |
| US08876438B2 |
Process for casting concrete wall blocks for use with geogrid
In casting concrete retaining wall blocks, a plurality of mold inserts form a passage between top and bottom surfaces of the block, a recess in the block top between the passage and the back of the block and a recess in the bottom of the block between the passage and the back of the block. The recesses and the passage are formed by a plurality of mold inserts. When the blocks are used in a retaining wall, geogrid fabric passes from the rear of the wall through one of the recesses in a block, through the passage in the block and through the other recess in the block into backfill for stabilizing the wall. The recesses and passage are designed so that any concrete flashing formed between abutting mold inserts is not contacted by the geogrid fabric. |
| US08876433B2 |
Method of reeling and unreeling an internally clad metal pipeline
A method is disclosed for reeling a pipeline having an inner corrosion-resistant metallic liner that is tightly fitted within the pipeline. To minimize or avoid wrinkling of the liner during the reeling or unreeling, a length of the pipeline is internally pressurized by deploying a single sealing pig within the pipeline near to the trailing end of the pipeline and applying pressurized fluid within the pipeline, and then the length of pipeline is reeled onto a storage reel. In the pressurizing process, the length of the pipeline is filled with fluid at an elevated pressure within a range defined by a lower limit of 5 bar. |
| US08876432B2 |
Method for manufacturing geological gradation featuring disaster prevention and ecologic function
Provided is a method for manufacturing geological gradation layer featuring disaster prevention and ecologic function, which uses on-site earth or gradation materials commonly adopted in road construction, including aggregates, soils, gravels, or a mixture of water permeable concrete, and most importantly, added with uniquely arranged hollow bodies, all constituents being mixed and laid on soil stratum, and subjected to ramming, to form an ecological gradation layer. The ecological gradation layer provides an effect of supporting and also provides the functions of water storage, water preservation, and improving earth, whereby earth microorganisms and earth protozoa may establish a beneficial survival environment in earth, making the gradation layer exhibiting the characteristics of high water content and prompting breeding of microorganisms. When the atmosphere gets hot, water is released from the soil as vapor to alleviate the heat island effect and when rainwater precipitates, the rainwater can be stored for use in draughts. |
| US08876430B1 |
Systems and methods for removal of trunnion pin sleeve and for supporting tainter gate during said removal
Methods and systems for use in the removal of trunnion pin sleeves and the supporting of lock and/or dam gate structures (e.g., tainter or roller gates) are disclosed herein. In one example embodiment, a method of trunnion pin sleeve removal includes causing either a constriction of at least one part of the sleeve or an application of a torque with respect to the at least one part of the sleeve, and subsequently applying a force to the at least one part of the sleeve so as to pull out the sleeve. Also, in another example embodiment, a system for supporting a lock and/or dam gate assembly includes a support assembly having a at least one pedestal assembly. The support assembly further includes a trunnion arm support structure, configured to be supported at least in part by the at least one pedestal assembly and to at least partially support a trunnion arm. |
| US08876427B2 |
Spur toothing on a coupling element for transmitting torques
The invention relates to a spur toothing on at least one coupling element for transmitting torques about a rotational axis, said spur toothing axially engaging with a corresponding mating cutting. The face cutting is provided with teeth from a material of the coupling element that has been plastically shaped in an at least partially non-cutting manner. |
| US08876423B2 |
Refillable notebook with release mechanism
A binding mechanism assembly for binding a sheet item, the binding mechanism assembly including a backing member having an upper surface, and a binding member directly or indirectly coupled to the backing member. The binding member includes a protrusion shaped and located to protrude through a hole of a sheet item to be bound thereto. The binding member further includes a generally flexible flange that is manually movable into engagement with the protrusion to form a generally closed loop and thereby bind the sheet item thereto. The loop is rotatable relative to the backing member from a first position in which the loop is generally located above the upper surface to a second position wherein at least part of the loop is located below the upper surface. A release mechanism is provided for opening the loop. |
| US08876420B2 |
Image forming apparatus with openable interlocking guide flaps
There is provided an image recording apparatus including: a first transporting portion with a first transporting path formed to guide a sheet with its recording surface facing upward, a recording portion, a transporting roller, a second transporting portion with a second transporting path, a first flap, a sandwiching member sandwich the sheet between itself and the first flap, and a second flap. The first flap turn between a first position being able to guide the sheet along the first transporting path and a second position spaced downward from the sandwiching member farther than in the first position, and the second flap change between a third position for a third surface to define a guide surface of the second transporting path and a fourth position to open up the second transporting path. |
| US08876418B2 |
Printing system, sheet processing system, and sheet-path switching apparatus
In a printing system capable of selectively performing duplex printing and simplex printing, a switching unit switches a sheet travel path between a first path and a second path parallel to each other, and reverses the sides of a sheet that passes along the first path. In the duplex printing, a sheet is printed on a first side by a first printing apparatus, reversed by the switching unit, and printed on a second side reverse of the first side by a second printing apparatus. In the simplex printing, only one side of a sheet is printed by the first printing apparatus and/or second printing apparatus. First and second input units introduce sheets into the first and second paths, respectively; and first and second output units receive printed sheets that have traveled along the first and/or second paths. |
| US08876416B2 |
Shutter apparatus and image pickup apparatus
A shutter apparatus includes a blade member, a blade moving member, a locking member, a cam member, and a restriction member. The cam member moves the locking member from the locking position to the non-locking position so that the blade moving member moves from the closing position to the opening position. The restriction member moves from the non-restriction position to the restriction position after the blade moving member moves from the closing position to the opening position. The cam member moves the locking member in a direction opposite to a direction from the non-locking position to the locking position so that the locking member moves the restriction member from the restriction position to the non-restriction position. |
| US08876413B2 |
Method and system for providing electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielding in an optical communications module
An optical communications module is provided with an EMI shielding system that comprises a resistive coating disposed on one or more inner surfaces of the module housing. The resistive coating has a thickness that is greater than or equal to one skin depth and has a resistivity that is low enough to support electrical current flow, but high enough to absorb EMI radiation of a particular wavelength or wavelength range. The combination of these features causes EMI radiation to propagate in the resistive coating due to skin effect. The resistive coating absorbs at least a portion of the EMI radiation propagating therein. |
| US08876409B2 |
Optical device
An optical device includes a light guide member, a holding member to hold the light guide member, an optical element to function according to light applied from the light guide member, a holder to hold the optical element, and an adhesive to join the holding member to the holder. The holding member and the holder are engaged with each other so that the optical element is placed on an optical axis of the light guide member. At least one of the holding member and the holder has a joint structure extending along the light guide member. The joint structure forms a gap to allow the adhesive to be easily injected between the holding member and the holder. The holding member and the holder are joined to each other with the adhesive injected into the gap. |
| US08876408B2 |
Optical connectors and a method of production thereof
The invention relates to a method for producing an active optical connection with an optoelectronic element and a light deflection means for light deflection between the optoelectronic element and an optical waveguide arranged transversely with respect to the beam direction of said element. In this case, it is provided that a carrier substrate for the optoelectronic element is arranged in a highly precisely repeatably positioning machine, in particular a flip-chip machine, the optoelectronic element is mounted on the substrate by a or the highly precisely repeatably positioning machine and a curable, moldable compound is applied over the optoelectronic element, and the moldable compound is molded by a mold for molding light deflection means, said mold being moved by a or the highly precisely repeatably positioning machine, and at the earliest thereafter the substrate is removed from the or a highly precisely repeatably positioning machine. |
| US08876405B2 |
Field terminable optical connector with splice element for jacketed cable
An LC format optical connector for terminating an optical fiber includes a housing configured to mate with an LC receptacle. A backbone is configured to engage an outer surface of the outer shell of the housing and includes a mounting structure that is configured to engage a boot. A collar body is retained between the outer shell and the backbone and includes a fiber stub disposed in a first portion of the collar body, the fiber stub being mounted in a ferrule. A mechanical splice is disposed in a second portion of the collar body, the mechanical splice configured to splice the fiber stub to the optical fiber. The backbone also includes a fiber jacket clamping portion to clamp a jacket portion that surrounds a portion of the optical fiber upon actuation. |
| US08876404B2 |
Receptacle connector having internal latching mechanism
A receptacle connector including a receptacle housing having a housing cavity that is configured to receive a plug connector. The housing cavity is defined by an interior sidewall that extends along the mating axis and has a guide track thereon. The receptacle connector also includes a communication component that is disposed within the housing cavity and configured to communicatively engage the plug connector. The receptacle connector also includes a coupling member that is disposed within the housing cavity and is configured to engage the plug connector. The coupling member is movable bi-directionally along a mating axis and has a latch element that is slidably engaged to the guide track of the sidewall. The guide track forces the latch element toward the plug connector as the coupling member moves along the mating axis. The latch element capturing the plug connector in a locked position. |
| US08876401B2 |
Optical device and method of manufacturing optical device including transparent member between optical waveguide core and optical waveguide insertion hole
An optical device includes a connector configured to provide a hole, an optical waveguide provided with a core and a clad equipped on an outer periphery of the core and configured to have a refractive index smaller than a refractive index of the core, a first transparent member configured to make contact with a core end face of the optical waveguide, and a second transparent member configured to make contact with a hole bottom of the optical waveguide insertion hole, wherein a contact area of the second transparent member and the hole bottom of the optical waveguide insertion hole is larger than a contact area of the core and the first transparent member. |
| US08876399B2 |
Suspension strut bearing
A suspension strut bearing including a cap (2) and a guide ring (3) mounted for rotation relative to the cap (2) about an axis of rotation (D) and further including at least one seal (10), a thrust bearing (4) being arranged between the cap (2) and the guide ring (3). The cap (2) includes respective centering elements (15, 16) on an inner diameter and on an outer diameter, which centering elements (15, 16) enable an introduction of force into the cap (2). |
| US08876395B2 |
Ball bearing with retainer
A retainer for a ball bearing and a ball bearing have reduced torque even in grease lubrication. The retainer includes a retainer body which has an annular shape and has recesses formed in one axial end surface thereof along a peripheral direction at predetermined pitches and a pair of claw portions provided to protrude from opening ends of each of the recesses, the opening ends being opposed to each other in the peripheral direction. Each of the recesses and the pair of claw portions form a pocket in which a ball is received. A pocket has a PCD which is set smaller than a PCD of the ball to be received in the pocket. |
| US08876394B2 |
Rolling bearing with seal
In a rolling bearing with seal, an annular lip supporting portion having a larger thickness than that of a seal lip is formed on an inner periphery side of a seal member; the seal lip protruding on an inner peripheral surface of the lip supporting portion has: a cylindrical seal surface being in close contact with an outer peripheral surface of an inner race; and an inner side surface at least part of which in a region from an inner end of the seal surface to reach the lip supporting portion stands upright from the inner end of the seal surface in a direction perpendicular to a generating line of the outer peripheral surface of the inner race; and a width of the seal surface in an axial direction is set to be larger than a height of the seal lip in a radial direction. Accordingly, it is possible to provide a rolling bearing with seal with a simple structure, which is capable of maintaining a normal seal pressure against an inner race of a seal lip even when large negative pressure or positive pressure acts on the seal lip, thus preventing leakage of grease inside the bearing. |
| US08876390B2 |
Slotted bearings with wear-resistant treatments for gearbox mounting in a geared turbofan engine
A load slot bearing system for a mounting system for a gearbox on a geared turbofan engine includes a load slot bearing assembly having a cobalt alloy inner member and a precipitation-hardenable alloy outer member. The inner member defines an outer engagement surface and the outer member defines an inner engagement surface slidably and rotatably engaged with the inner engagement surface. One of the outer engagement surface or the inner engagement surface has boron diffused therein. The load slot bearing system includes first and second slots extending inward from a face defined by the outer member, the second slot being positioned generally diametrically opposite the first slot. A first element is located in the bore of the inner member of the load slot bearing assembly and is connected to the inner member. A second element is connected to the outer member of the load slot bearing assembly. |
| US08876379B2 |
Collapsible column movement apparatus for mobile x-ray device
A mobile radiography apparatus has a portable transport frame and a sectioned vertical column mounted on the frame and defining a vertical axis and having a base section having a fixed vertical position relative to the vertical axis and at least one movable section that is translatable to a variable vertical position along the vertical axis. A counterbalance apparatus is coupled to the at least one movable section of the vertical column with an actuator that is energizable to translate the at least one movable section along the vertical axis. A boom apparatus supports an x-ray source and is coupled to the at least one movable section for vertical displacement of the boom apparatus to a height position. A height sensing element provides a signal that is indicative of the height position of the boom apparatus. |
| US08876374B2 |
Temperature sensor
A temperature sensor generates a variable voltage whose level decreases linearly as a temperature increases, and compares the variable voltage with first and second reference voltages to generate first and second temperature codes to measure the temperature. |
| US08876373B2 |
IR thermometry probe cover
A protective cover for an insertion probe of a medical instrument. The cover contains a flexible tubular body that compliments the probe geometry and a radially disposed flange that surrounds the proximal end of the body. A series of snap-on fasteners removably connect the cover to the instrument. A camming surface is located on the outer face of the flange which coacts with a cam follower that is movably mounted upon the instrument to flex the cover sufficiently to open the fastener and release the cover from the instrument and move the cover axially toward the distal end of the tip. |
| US08876371B2 |
Watch case
A watch case includes a middle (2, 24, 34), one opening of which is closed by a bezel (8, 18, 28) and/or a crystal (1, 11, 21), or by a back (40). An element for closing the opening is connected to the middle by a resilient metal member (3, 23, 33) having a recessed cross-section defined by the profile of a non-rectilinear wall having a constant thickness, whose ends (3a, 3b) are connected to the periphery of the closing element (1, 11, 21, 18), respectively. The profile of the non-rectilinear wall defines at least one annular fold having an orientation parallel to the plane of the opening, the fold being formed by a curvature whose arc defines an angle of between >90° and 180°, so as to impart to the closing member (1, 11, 21, 18) a freedom of movement relative to the plane of the opening. |
| US08876370B1 |
Pendulum-regulated clock
A pendulum-regulated clock. The clock has a movement at the bottom of a multi-rod pendulum. In an embodiment, a first pendulum rod and a second pendulum rod are provided. The clock provides swinging motion by imparting an oscillating torque to one or more of the pendulum rods. In an embodiment, a dual escapement mechanism may be provided. A dual escapement mechanism may synchronize the dual escapements via differential adjustment, to uniformly power pendulum rods during both directions of swing. |
| US08876369B1 |
Apparatus for mixing liquids and/or solids with liquids
A mixing apparatus has a shaft, at least one arm radiating outwardly of the shaft, and a mixing element affixed to the arm away from the shaft. The mixing element has a generally frustoconical member with a wide opening at an end thereof and a narrow opening at an opposite end thereof. The mixing element also includes a throat section of a generally constant diameter connected to the narrow opening of the frustoconical member and a diffuser section having an end affixed to an end of the throat section opposite the frustoconical member. The mixing elements have a longitudinal axis extending at an acute angle to horizontal. A motor is cooperative with the shaft so as to rotate the shaft. Each of the mixing elements includes a Venturi. |
| US08876368B2 |
Powder treating apparatus
There is provided a powder treating apparatus which can uniformly and successively combine and grow powders having different specific gravities or sizes together with a simple structure. The apparatus comprises a rotating container 20 into which plural kinds of powders P having different specific gravities or sizes are supplied and which rotates in a predetermined direction, a fixed container 30 retaining the rotating container 20, primary treating means M1 which is so arranged as to face an inner periphery surface 20S of the rotating container 20 and to extend in an axial direction, generates turbulence flow including eddying flow together with a rotational motion of the rotating container 20, and stirs and mixes the powders P having different specific gravities or sizes, a communicating hole 25 for ejecting the powders P stirred and mixed by the primary treating means M1 to a predetermined treatment space around the rotating container 20, and secondary treating means M2 which applies planar compressive shear force to the powders P ejected from the communicating hole 25 with an inner periphery surface 30S of the fixed container 30 to carry out a composite treatment, and causes the powders P having undergone a composite treatment to flow back in the rotating container. |
| US08876365B2 |
Mixing system comprising an extensional flow mixer
The invention provides a mixing system comprising the following: A) at least one extensional flow mixer comprising: a generally open and hollow body having a contoured outer surface and having: a single entrance port and a single exit port; a design for compressing a bulk stream, and a design for broadening the bulk stream and the at least one injected additive stream; B) a flow conductor; and C) a primary additive stream injector, as described herein; and wherein the extensional flow mixer is followed by D) a first helical static mixing element that is at least one half “flow conductor diameter (D1)” downstream of the exit port of the extensional flow mixer; and wherein the mixing system comprises at least four helical static mixing elements, placed such that the leading edge of the first helical static mixing element is located perpendicular to the main axis (major axis) of the exit port of the extensional flow mixer. |
| US08876363B2 |
Device for gassing liquids
The invention relates to a method for gassing liquids, in particular for aerating water, wherein gas is fed to a mixing tube (2) via a gas inlet (7) and liquid via a liquid inlet (13) such as to form a mixture of gas and liquid, which is characterised in that the liquid is introduced centrally via a feed pipe (12) and the mouth opening (13) of the latter into the mixing pipe (2) and is spread in the region of the mouth opening (13) by means of an impact onto a spreader (18). |
| US08876361B2 |
Fluid agitation method, fluid agitation system, and cartridge
A fluid agitation method is provided, whereby a swirling flow is generated in a trace amount of fluid, thereby agitating the fluid. The fluid agitation method includes introducing the fluid into an agitation chamber (3) including a wall having an uneven mass distribution, and applying oscillation (F) to the wall with frequencies varying in a predetermined frequency range. The uneven mass distribution of the wall is attained, for example, by arranging a plurality of thickened portions (11 to 18) of different thicknesses in a ring. |
| US08876359B2 |
Electrically isolating lamp assembly
An electrically isolating lamp assembly comprises a clamp ring, a lamp end, and a socket, wherein the lamp end is positioned within the clamp ring and the lamp end can be rotated, relative to the clamp ring, between locked and unlocked positions. In the unlocked position, lamp end shoulders are radially non-aligned with clamp ring flanges, and a locking peg is restrained, by the clamp ring flange, from being inserted completely within a locking peg channel in the lamp end, whereby the socket is restrained from fully engaging the lamp end; in the locked position, the lamp end shoulders are radially aligned with the clamp ring flanges, and the locking peg is inserted completely within the locking peg channel, whereby the socket can fully engage the lamp end, and wherein the lamp end is restrained by the locking peg from being rotated to the unlocked position. |
| US08876356B2 |
Illumination device and display device
An illumination device including: a support member accommodating therein a light guiding plate, and having a board placement space in a region where being along a longitudinal direction of an end surface of the light guiding plate, and extending from the end surface side of the light guiding plate to a back surface side thereof; and a light source circuit unit including a bendable circuit board including first and second regions, the first region including light emitting chips, and the second region being formed with a densely-packed portion of a wiring pattern of the light emitting chips. The light source circuit unit is placed in the board placement space after being bent to allow the light emitting chips to face the end surface of the light guiding plate, and to allow the densely-packed portion of the wiring pattern to come on the back surface side of the light guiding plate. |
| US08876353B2 |
Lighting apparatus
A lighting apparatus according to the present invention includes a light guiding unit and a plurality of light sources arranged along the incidence face of the light guiding unit. The plurality of light sources are constituted by a plurality of light source groups such that one light source group corresponds to one block. The one light source group includes a plurality of white light sources and a plurality of color light sources. Among the plurality of color light sources included in the one light source group, the color light sources with an emission color of the highest light intensity, when the light sources are driven under identical drive conditions, are disposed at both ends of the light source group. All of the white light sources included in the plurality of light sources arranged along the incidence face are disposed equidistantly. |
| US08876348B2 |
Light fixture comprising a multi-functional non-imaging opitical component
A novel light fixture comprises a light source, a collimating element, an optical cavity and a multi-functional non-imaging optical component to control light distribution. The present invention provides a system and method of controlling the output of light from a light fixture. One or more volumetric anisotropic diffusing components can be utilized to control both the photometric distribution and visual appearance of the light fixture. A high degree of optical control is obtained with durable components that can be easily customized to optimize optical performance in light fixtures designed as pendants, wall sconces, wallwashers, downlights, and tasklights. The luminance and color uniformity as well as the illuminance and color uniformity of illumination can be controlled and improved. |
| US08876344B2 |
Vehicle headlamp with excitation light source, light emitting part and light projection section
A headlamp 1 includes a laser diode 3 that emits a laser beam, a light emitting part 7 that emits light upon receiving the laser beam emitted from the laser diode 3, and a reflection mirror 8 that reflects the light emitted from the light emitting part 7. According to the headlamp 1, the light emitting part 7 has a luminance greater than 25 cd/mm2, and an area size of an aperture plane 8a perpendicular to a direction in which an incoherent light travels outward from the headlamp 1 is less than 2000 mm2. |
| US08876340B2 |
Personal lighting device
A personal lighting device includes a first housing including a light projection portion including an inner threading and a first protrusion. It further includes a second housing including a lighting mechanism cavity, an outer threading, a second protrusion, and a third protrusion; the second and third protrusions having a first space and a second space between the second and third protrusion, the second housing interconnected with the first housing via the threading, the first protrusion having a first and second position, the first position between the second and third protrusion in the first space, and the second position in the second space. The personal lighting device further includes a battery, a printed circuit board, and a light emitting diode such that when the first protrusion is in the first position, the LED is not activated; and when the first protrusion is in the second position, the LED is activated. |
| US08876336B2 |
LED lamp unit
In LED lamp unit, a flat LED body has a light emitting part at a front surface side, and a pair of terminal parts at a rear surface side. Each of a pair of busbars includes a busbar body which is provided with a lock piece which locks the LED body and a contact spring piece which contacts the terminal part. A lock part provided at a free end side of the contact spring piece is inserted through a hole in the busbar body. A lens member accommodates an LED connection body in which the LED body is assembled to the pair of busbars. The LED connection body includes locked parts engaged with the lock parts, and an inner wall surface to which the lock part is press-contacted in a direction opposite to the terminal part in a state where the locked parts are engaged with the lock parts. |
| US08876331B2 |
Annular lighting fixture and method for illumination
An annular lighting fixture having a housing, a channel, and a plurality of lights disposed in the channel. The fixture can be attached about a tubular portion of a motorcycle. In one embodiment, the plurality of lights are light emitting diodes surface mounted on a flexible printed circuit board disposed in the channel. In another embodiment a collimator is associated with each LED unit to redirect light in a desired direction. In another embodiment reflective portions are arranged on respective sides of the channel so as to redirect light in a desired direction. A method is also provided herein for the illumination of a vehicle. |
| US08876329B2 |
Light-emitting diode work light including adjustable lens
In accordance with various embodiments, there is provided a light-emitting diode work light, which includes a housing, a light source comprising a light-emitting diode, and a light focusing assembly comprising a lens and a focusing knob. The light focusing assembly is configured to adjust a focal distance of light emitted from the light source. The focusing knob is configured to adjust a distance between the light source and the lens. In accordance with certain embodiments, the light-emitting diode work light includes a plurality of lights sources and a plurality of light focusing assemblies. Each light focusing assembly includes a lens and a focusing knob, and is configured to adjust a focal distance of light emitted from a respective light source. |
| US08876328B2 |
Optic coupler for light emitting diode fixture
A recessed light fixture includes an LED module, which includes a single LED package that is configured to generate all light emitted by the recessed light fixture. For example, the LED package can include multiple LEDs mounted to a common substrate. The LED package can be coupled to a heat sink for dissipating heat from the LEDs. The heat sink can include a core member from which fins extend. Each fin can include one or more straight and/or curved portions. A reflector housing may be coupled to the heat sink and configured to receive a reflector. The reflector can have any geometry, such as a bell-shaped geometry including two radii of curvature that join together at an inflection point. An optic coupler can be coupled to the reflector housing and configured to cover electrical connections at the substrate and to guide light emitted by the LED package. |
| US08876323B2 |
Fluorescent lamp holder assembly
Fluorescent lamp holder assembly (10) comprising a lamp holder (15) and a socket (20). The holder (15) houses one pair of electrical terminals, and includes one pair of openings (30) located at a position corresponding to the position of the electrical terminals. The lamp holder (15) includes one pair of parallel spaced-apart legs (35) with one end connected to the terminal and the free end protruding from the body of the holder (15). The socket (20) has one pair of spaced-apart electrical terminals defining insertion inlets (45). The holder (15) can be coupled to the socket (20) by inserting the legs (35) into the corresponding terminals of the socket (20). The holder assembly (10) further comprises releasable, resiliently biased locking means (60) movable between an opening position, in which holder (15) and socket (20) can be unplugged and a locking position, in which holder (15) and socket (20) are held together. |
| US08876322B2 |
Linear LED module and socket for same
A lighting assembly can include a linear light module with one or more LED light elements, where a length of the light module is greater than a width of the light module. An elongate socket removably receives the linear light module therein. The socket includes a locking mechanism actuatable to releasably and resiliently lock the linear light module in the socket via actuation of one or more levers. |
| US08876318B2 |
Illumination device and display device incorporating same
An illumination device is provided that can reduce the displacement of the position of a diffusion plate. This illumination device includes the diffusion plate and a fixing pin that fixes the diffusion plate. When seen in plan view from the side of the light emitting surface of the diffusion plate, a diffusion plate fixing portion is provided in a perimeter portion on the side of the light emitting surface of the diffusion plate, and the fixing pin is engaged with the diffusion plate fixing portion. |
| US08876316B2 |
Backlight module
A backlight module is provided, including a back plate, a diffusion plate, multiple lighting bars mounted on the back plate and at least one lighting module mounted on each of the lighting bars, where each of the lighting modules has an LED forward light source and at least one pair of LED non-forward light sources, and the pair of LED non-forward light sources is mounted on the side of the LED forward light source, and light emitted from the LED forward light source and light emitted from each of the pair of LED light sources are spliced together to form a diffusing light shape. Therefore, the backlight module of the present invention has reduced lighting bars to decrease the weight, volume and cost of the whole backlight module and liquid-crystal display device, and overcome the problems of non-uniform brightness of conventional backlight modules. |
| US08876315B2 |
Lighting apparatus and display apparatus using the same
Disclosed are a backlight unit and a display apparatus using the same. The backlight unit includes a bottom chassis, and a panel guide module coupled to a corner region of the bottom chassis so as to support a display panel. The panel guide module includes a support plate to support a corner region of the display panel, a reinforcing rib disposed on the support plate, and a fixing rib disposed under the support plate and configured to be coupled to the bottom chassis. |
| US08876310B2 |
Operation device
An operation device is capable of illuminating a peripheral wall of an operation knob in a circumferential direction. The operation device includes an operation knob having a substantially cylindrical peripheral wall centering on an axis and rotating around the axis, the peripheral wall being provided with an illuminated portion in a circumferential direction; an illumination light source provided on the axis of the operation knob and emitting light frontward; and a reflector. A reflection surface is configured with a portion of a surface of the reflector provided inside the operation knob. The reflection surface has a shape extending in the circumferential direction centering on the axis of the operation knob and having a diameter increasing toward a front side such that the light emitted frontward from the illumination light source is reflected by the reflection surface toward the illuminated portion. |
| US08876303B2 |
Lens barrier device
In a lens barrier device, one barrier blade is arranged at a different height in the optical axis direction from another barrier blade, and a barrier base is provided with a regulating portion which is at the outer peripheral portion of an optical axis forward end side barrier blade and which regulates the position in the optical direction of the optical axis forward end side barrier blade, thus forming the lens barrier device as a unit. If rotation shafts for the barrier blades are formed on an external cover, deformation or the like would be generated when the external cover is assembled to the apparatus, resulting in an increase in the requisite drive force for the opening/closing operation. Hence, it is possible to prevent a suitable opening/closing operation from being hindered by such an increase in the requisite drive force. |
| US08876299B2 |
Electronic device
An electronic device of the present application includes a case (1), a stem-shaped leg (3), and a leg fixing part (4). The leg fixing part (4) is provided on one face of the case (1) and includes a case thread ridge portion (4a) that is formed on an inside face of a hole, into which the leg (3) is inserted, and that is divided into isolated thread ridge portions. A peripheral face of a stem portion of the leg (3) has a first screw structure portion (3a), which is engaged with the case thread ridge portion (4a), and a second screw structure portion (3b) which is engaged with the case thread ridge portion (4a) before being engaged with the first screw structure portion (3a). The second screw structure portion (3b) has a guide portion (5a) and an idle turn inducing portion (5b). The guide portion (5a) guides the case thread ridge portion (4a) to the second screw structure portion (3b) when the leg (3) is inserted into the hole while being turned in a direction in which the leg (3) enters the case (1). The idle turn inducing portion (5b) causes the second screw structure portion (3b) to turn idly with respect to the case thread ridge portion (4a) when the leg (3) is turned in a direction in which the leg (3) is taken out of the case (1). |
| US08876295B2 |
Method for displaying images and/or other information on aircraft blades
A method for displaying information via a light source on rotating helicopter blades of an aircraft such as a helicopter is provided. The light source may be a laser light source and the light therefrom may be directed onto the aircraft blade by one or more motion controlled mirrors and a computer controller. A sensor is capable of determining the position of helicopter blades during rotation, such that light may be projected upon only the moving blade at precisely timed intervals, so as to form perceivable graphics and/or messages thereon. In addition, the method may be utilized for displaying graphics and/or messages on rotating propellers of fixed wing aircraft. |
| US08876287B2 |
Ophthalmic lenses and reduction of accommodative error
Ophthalmic lenses provide clear visual acuity and present a myopic defocused image to the lens wearer at both near and distant viewing distances. The present lenses are used in methods to reduce ocular accommodative error in lens wearers. Methods of manufacturing the present lenses are described. |
| US08876285B2 |
Wearable high resolution audio visual interface
An adjustable visual optical element is provided, which may be supported, for example, by an eyeglass. The optical element is preferably adjustable in each of the X, Y, and Z axes to allow the wearer to optimize projection of the optical element. A view axis of the display is preferably also angularly adjustable with respect to a wearer's straight ahead normal line of sight. Source electronics may be carried onboard the eyeglasses, or may be connectable to the eyeglasses via either a hardwire, optical guide, or radiofrequency link. |
| US08876284B2 |
Eye-wear borne electromagnetic radiation refractive therapy
An eye-wear borne electromagnetic radiation refractive therapy system can comprise an electromagnetic radiation source comprising a ring of LEDs that directs one of its on axis or off axis electromagnetic radiation to a desired peripheral retina area of a wearer's eye; a power source for powering the LEDs, an antenna for receiving signals and a processor for controlling the LEDs; wherein the electromagnetic radiation source includes spectral characteristics similar to outdoor light. |
| US08876283B2 |
Hinge mechanism for a fluid filled lens assembly
In an embodiment, a hinge for a fluid-filled lens assembly includes a base having a first end configured to connect to a temple arm of the lens assembly and a second end configured to connect to a frame of the lens assembly, wherein the base includes a gap that is shaped to allow for tubing to pass from the first end to the second end of the base. In an embodiment, the first end of the base includes a cammed surface configured to engage a surface of the temple arm. In an embodiment, the first and second ends of the base are configured to flex around a rotation axis of the hinge. |
| US08876282B2 |
Eyewear system
An eyewear system for supporting one or more lenses on the face. Each lens is supported by receipt between a pair of suction cups on opposing prongs extending from an arm having a ball-end, the ball end received within a socket/cavity in a bridge piece engaged to the nose. The cavities may be formed with multiple apertures to opposing surfaces such that the arm can be rotated about the ball so as to permit the lens to be moved out of the line of site of the wearer. Multiple lenses may be supported in series within the prongs of a lens clip, in which case a double-sided suction cup is positioned between them to properly secure and space them. Removable temple pieces are optionally provided to support the lens over the ear, the temple pieces being engaged to the outside edges of the lens(es) with suction cup enabled lens clips as at the bridge piece. |
| US08876280B2 |
Printing apparatus
An embodiment of this invention is directed to a printing apparatus capable of providing an output result without a printing density difference between two surfaces in two-sided printing. In the printing apparatus, one subtank is provided for each type of ink. The nozzles of printheads that receive inks supplied from the subtank and are used for printing of the front surface of a printing sheet and printing of the back surface, respectively, are aligned to almost the same level in the vertical direction, thereby making the water head pressures match. |
| US08876279B2 |
Process and apparatus for printing assembled absorbent articles with custom graphics
The present disclosure relates to methods and apparatuses for printing graphics on absorbent articles. Printing systems according to the present disclosure may include a carrier apparatus that transports individual absorbent articles past a printing station, which prints a custom graphic on the absorbent articles. The carrier apparatus may include a hook member connected with an endless belt. The printing system may also include a pressing apparatus positioned adjacent the endless belt. During operation, an absorbent article may be positioned on a hook member, and the endless belt conveys the absorbent article in the machine direction past the printing station. As the absorbent article advances toward the printing station, the pressing apparatus compresses and flattens the absorbent article against the hook member to help provide a relatively flat, smooth surface on the absorbent article to be printed. The printing station then prints a graphic on the advancing article. |
| US08876274B2 |
Pattern forming method
A pattern forming method includes: performing a first droplet ejection step by ejecting droplets containing 0.1%-2% polysiloxane by mass onto a substrate; performing a first layer forming step by solidifying the droplets ejected onto the substrate so that a first layer is formed; performing a second droplet ejection step by ejecting more droplets over the first layer; and performing a second layer forming step by solidifying the droplets ejected onto the first layer so that a second layer is formed. |
| US08876273B2 |
Ink composition, ink jet recording method using the same and recorded material
Disclosed are an ink composition containing at least one of a porphyrazine compound or a salt thereof and an aromatic compound having a sulfo group or a salt thereof, an ink jet recording method using the ink composition and a recorded material recorded by the recording method. |
| US08876268B2 |
Ink cartridge
An ink cartridge includes a bag-shaped ink bag storing ink inside and having a spout through which the ink can be drawn out, a substantially box-shaped case housing the ink bag and having at least a first wall portion and a second wall portion arranged to oppose each other, a first leg portion protruding from an outer surface of the first wall portion and being disposed on a first end of the first wall portion positioned in a longitudinal direction and separated from both ends positioned in a first direction of the first wall portion, and a second leg portion protruding from the outer surface of the first wall portion and being disposed in a position separated from the first leg portion on the first end of the first wall portion and separated from the both ends in the first direction. |
| US08876267B2 |
Printing system with multiple printheads each supplied by multiple conduits
A printing system that has an ink supply, a feed line coupled to the ink supply, a return line coupled to the ink supply, a plurality of printheads each fluidically coupled to the feed and the return lines via separate couplings. Each of the printheads receives ink from both the feed and the return lines. |
| US08876260B2 |
Liquid ejection head
A liquid ejection head includes a plurality of recording element substrates that each include an energy generating element generating energy utilized for ejecting a liquid and that each have a supply port through which the liquid is supplied to the energy generating element, a plurality of support members that each have a flow passage communicating with a corresponding one of the supply ports and that each support a corresponding one of the plurality of recording element substrates, a base substrate that supports the plurality of support members, and a heat insulating member disposed between the flow passages and the base substrate. In the liquid ejection head, a thermal conductivity of the support members is equal to or greater than a thermal conductivity of the recording element substrates, and a thermal conductivity of the heat insulating member is less than a thermal conductivity of the base substrate. |
| US08876259B2 |
Liquid ejecting head, liquid ejecting apparatus and piezoelectric element
Provided is a piezoelectric element including a first electrode, a piezoelectric layer, and a second electrode, wherein the piezoelectric layer is formed of a complex oxide having a perovskite structure containing bismuth, barium, iron and titanium, binding energy of C—C and C—H states of a peak due to C 1s in an X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy measurement is standardized as 284.8 eV, when a peak obtained in a range of a binding energy of 775 eV or more and 785 eV or less is separated using a Gauss function, the binding energy has the peak in 779.0±0.8 eV, and one or more peak having intensity lower than that of the peak is included at the high binding energy side. |
| US08876256B2 |
Print head die
A print head die includes rows of nozzles. In one implementation, an electrical interconnect is electrically connected to the print head die along a major dimension of the die. In another implementation, a cross connect electrically connects a first column of a of nozzles to print a first color to a second column to print a second color. The cross connect connects the first and second columns between first and second ends of the first and second columns. |
| US08876255B2 |
Orifice structure for fluid ejection device and method of forming same
An orifice structure for a fluid ejection device includes a surface, an orifice formed through the surface, a first region of the surface projecting from the orifice, and a second region of the surface surrounding the first region, with the first region having a first surface energy, and the second region having a second surface energy higher than the first surface energy. |
| US08876253B2 |
Image recording apparatus
An image recording apparatus includes a carriage which moves in a main scanning direction, a recording head which is installed on the carriage, and which records an image on a sheet, a drive section which has a motor, and which applies a driving force to the carriage, a guide member which guides the carriage in the main scanning direction, a first contact portion which is provided to the carriage and which contacts with the guide member, a second contact portion which is provided to sandwich a center of gravity of the carriage between the first contact portion and the second contact portion and which contacts with the guide member, and a friction-force adjusting section which adjusts a friction force acting between the guide member and the first contact portion in accordance with an acceleration of the carriage. |
| US08876252B2 |
Solvent flushing for fluid jet device
A solvent flushing apparatus comprises a plate that has an opening formed therein. The solvent flushing plate may be positioned relative to a fluid jet device so that the opening in the plate coincides with jet orifices of the jet device. The solvent flushing apparatus further comprises a conduit that is adapted to convey fluid therein. The conduit extends from proximate a first external side of the plate or body, and into the plate toward a second external side that is opposite the first external side. The conduit terminates at a conduit orifice that is spaced apart from the first external surface, faces the opening formed in the plate, and is directed toward, i.e., faces, at least in part, the orifices of the fluid jet device. A solvent fluid may be transported through the conduit and ejected from the orifice toward the plurality of orifices of the fluid jet device. |
| US08876250B2 |
Method and device for measuring total amount of ink in ink-jet printing apparatus
The application discloses a method for measuring the total amount of ink of an inkjet printing device. The method may include: printing a sampling figure (S10); measuring the color of the sampling figure by a measuring device (S20); and determining the total amount of ink according to the measurements (S30). The application also discloses an apparatus for measuring the total amount of ink of an inkjet printing device. The apparatus may include a printing module (10) configured to print a sampling figure; a measuring device (20) configured to measure the color of the sampling figure by a measuring device; and a determining module (30) configured to determine the total amount of ink according to the measurements. The method and the apparatus can improve the inkjet printing quality. |
| US08876246B2 |
Liquid ejecting apparatus, method of controlling liquid ejecting apparatus, and program for controlling liquid ejecting apparatus
A printer as an ink ejecting apparatus capable of ejecting sedimentation ink includes an LED as a first light emitting unit that emits light to a patch as a measurement target portion printed on a printing medium by the sedimentation ink, a light receiving sensor as a first light receiving unit that receives light transmitted from the LED and passing through the patch, and a control unit as a shielding degree determining unit that determines whether or not the patch has a predetermined shielding degree on the basis of a light reception signal output from the light receiving sensor. |
| US08876245B2 |
Inkjet printer with in-flight droplet drying system
Inkjet droplets having a vaporizable carrier fluid are jetted from a printhead according to image data. A heated condensation shield between the printhead and a target area at which the printhead directs drops protects against condensation of vaporized carrier fluid and creates heat. A heat shield between the printhead and a support structure for the printhead protects the printhead and support structure from heat and condensation. A heated zone exists between the heat shield and the condensation shield. The condensation shield is heated to a temperature above a condensation temperature of vaporized carrier fluid in the second region so that ink droplets that pass through the heated zone are heated in a manner that causes ink droplets having a first concentration to spread when printed onto a paper in the target area as if the ink droplets had a higher concentration of at least one percent. |
| US08876242B2 |
Liquid ejection head
A print head is provided that well preserves ink characteristics upon printing by way of performing effective ink preliminary heating. The print head has heaters and ejection openings formed at locations corresponding to the heaters. Viewed from the side from which ink is ejected, a sub-heater is established in the print head between the ink supply port and the print elements so as to surround the ink supply port. |
| US08876240B2 |
Image recording apparatus and recording medium transportation control method
There is provided an image recording apparatus including a transportation unit that transports a recording medium, a driven rotation member that rotates as a result of being driven depending on the recording medium which is transported by the transportation unit while in contact with the recording medium, a rotational position detection unit that detects a rotational position of the driven rotation member, and a control unit that controls an amount of transportation of the recording medium based on a result of the detection by the rotational position detection unit. |
| US08876239B2 |
Method for controlling droplet ejection from an inkjet print head
A method for controlling droplet ejection, wherein droplets ejected from an inkjet print head are to be received on a recording substrate and wherein the print head and the recording substrate are moveable relative to each other, includes determining a set of droplet ejection moments, the set of droplet ejection moments determining when a droplet may be ejected from the print head; moving the inkjet print head and the recording substrate relative to each other; predicting an actual relative position of the print head and the recording substrate at a droplet ejection moment; and determining whether or not a droplet is to be ejected at the droplet ejection moment depending on the predicted actual relative position and depending on the predetermined pattern. Thus, droplets may be ejected from the print head only at stable droplet ejection moments resulting in an increased stability of operation of the print head. |
| US08876235B2 |
Control system, control device, and method of controlling a control device
The possibility of information acquired from a recording device not being correct can be detected. A management server 20 has an information reader 63 that reads related information stored in nonvolatile memory 74 of an ink cartridge 13, an information acquisition unit 62 that acquires related information by communication from a coupon printer CP, and a information comparison unit 64 that compares the related information read by the information reader 63 with the related information acquired by the information acquisition unit 62. |
| US08876227B2 |
Mobile machine track shoe
A mobile machine track shoe includes a ground engaging surface including a first grouser bar and a second grouser bar substantially parallel to the first grouser bar. The track shoe further includes a base opposite the ground engaging surface. The base includes a first relief disposed opposite the first grouser bar, and a second relief disposed opposite the second grouser bar. |
| US08876226B2 |
Seal assembly
A seal assembly 10,110 for sealing between a first member 12,112 and a second member 14,114 of a joint, the first member 12,112 being able to pivot about an axis 60,160 of the joint relative to the second member 12,112, is disclosed. The seal assembly 10,110 includes an annular seal body 30,130 which has a sufficient axial dimension X,XX to span first and second seal cavities 20,120,22,122 of the first member 12,112 and second member 14,114 of a joint. |
| US08876223B2 |
Brake system for motor vehicles
A motor vehicle “brake-by-wire” system having an actuating unit, including a brake master cylinder, actuatable by a brake pedal, has a housing and a piston, arranged displaceably in the housing and, with the housing, delimits a pressure space. The brake master cylinder piston is a stepped piston with two differing size hydraulic active surfaces; a first, small active surface assigned to the pressure space, and a second, large active surface assigned to a filling space. In the “brake-by-wire” operating mode, the filling space is connected to the travel simulator via a pressure medium line such that, in the “brake-by-wire” operating mode, the first small active surface is effective, and, in the recoil plane after a closing travel has been overcome, the second, large hydraulic active surface is effective and the active surfaces are switched over depending on a hydraulic pressure in the pressure space and on the pedal force, respectively. |
| US08876222B2 |
Protector shield for a sidewall of a motor vehicle tire, and a wheel assembly for such a vehicle incorporating it
The present invention relates to a protector shield for at least one sidewall of a motor vehicle tire, and to a wheel assembly for a motor vehicle incorporating this protector shield. The invention particularly but non exclusively concerns the fire protection against flames and/or said flammable substances, such as oil or Molotov cocktails, as well as a high solvent and/or acid resistance, especially in hostile environments. A protector shield of the invention is in a form of a curved ring designed to be mounted on a wheel rim receiving said tire and, according to the invention, the shield includes a fire protection part which defines an outer convex face of said shield and which comprises a cross-linked rubber composition which particularly exhibits flame retardant and heat resistance properties for imparting to said tire an improved fire protection against flames and/or flammable substances. |
| US08876219B2 |
Self-propelled surface milling cutter
The present disclosure relates to a self-propelled surface milling cutter, with a working assembly comprising a rotatingly drivable drum body, and at least one drum drive unit which is accommodated in the interior of the drum body and forms at least part of a rotatable bearing of the drum body on a drum supporting frame, wherein the at least one drum drive unit includes a stationary drive part attached to the drum supporting frame and a rotatable drive part connected with the drum body. The rotatable drive part of the drum drive unit is mounted on the drum body by a positive entrainment connection in a torque-transmitting, but longitudinally movable manner. The entrainment connection rotatorily entrains the drum body, in order to be able to transmit the rotary drive movements of the drive part to the drum body. |
| US08876212B2 |
Seat adjustment apparatus for vehicle
A seat adjustment apparatus for a vehicle includes a first bracket, a second bracket defining an accommodating void with the first bracket, a pawl, and a pawl reverse spring, The pawl includes a ratchet portion, a pawl side reverse wall portion, and a pawl side return wall portion, the ratchet portion allowing a relative rotation of the first and second brackets in a first direction and prohibiting a relative rotation of the first and second brackets in a second direction in a case where the pawl is biased to rotate in a normal direction, the pawl side reverse wall portion allowing the relative rotation in the second direction so that the pawl is reversed by being biased to rotate in a reverse direction, the pawl side return wall portion bringing the pawl to be returned by being biased to rotate in the normal direction. |
| US08876210B2 |
Double articulating dental chair headrest apparatus
The present invention provides an improved adjustable chair headrest. Specifically, the present invention comprises a double articulating dental chair headrest apparatus which has a one-handed side pushbutton release and locking mechanism. When pressed, the pushbutton temporarily disengages a movable mating plate having splined perforations away from each of two corresponding rotatable splined pin assemblies to unlock each splined pin assembly. The unlocked splined pin assemblies each rotate independently. Each splined pin assembly is also fixedly attached to one of a headrest and a backrest via an attachment plate. The two splined pin assemblies are held in relation to each other, the movable mating plate having splined perforations, and the side pushbutton release and locking mechanism, by a housing component. |
| US08876209B2 |
Conforming back for a seating unit
According to the present invention a back for a seating unit is provided. The back comprises a plurality of flexible finger elements. Each of the plurality of flexible finger elements has a distal end. The back further comprises a retainer connecting at least two of the flexible finger elements proximate their distal ends. When a load is applied to a flexible finger element, the retainer distributes at least a portion of the load to at least one adjacent flexible finger element. |
| US08876208B2 |
Child restraint system
A child restraint system includes an infant carrier and a base adapted to be mounted on a passenger seat in a vehicle in a vehicle mode. The infant carrier is also configured to be mounted on a stroller frame in a stroller mode. The infant carrier includes a seat shell and a carrying handle coupled to the seat shell. |
| US08876207B1 |
Adjustable booster seat
An adjustable booster seat can raise and lower to provide a variable height so that a seat belt can properly fit a child as they grow. Therefore, as the child grows, the booster seat height can be adjusted, providing the shoulder strap of the seat belt a proper, safe, and non-irritating fit about the child. The adjustable booster seat could include a knob for manual adjustment of the height of the seat, or could include a motor to provide for motorized adjustment of the height of the seat. |
| US08876204B1 |
Multi-purpose support assembly
A multi-purpose support assembly includes a housing that has a bottom wall and a perimeter wall coupled to and extending upwardly from the bottom wall. A lid is hingedly coupled to the housing. A stop is coupled to and extends upwardly from the perimeter wall of the housing. A shaft is coupled to and extends downwardly from the bottom wall of the housing. A base is coupled to a bottom end of the shaft. The base abuts a support surface so the base may support the housing above the support surface. The base is positionable proximate a toilet so a top of the lid may be accessible to a user seated on the toilet. |
| US08876197B1 |
Instrument panel to body cowl attachment with pedestrian protection
A road vehicle has an instrument panel substrate supported by a sheet metal body cowl. The body cowl is configured to be supported by a firewall of the vehicle. A fastener joins the instrument panel substrate and the body cowl comprising a magnetic member mechanically affixed to one of the instrument panel substrate or the body cowl at a predetermined location. The magnetic member attaches with a substantially horizontal magnetic surface of the other one of the instrument panel substrate or the body cowl. The magnetic member vertically separates from the magnetic surface in response to an impact force applied against the body cowl that is greater than a predetermined force. Furthermore, the magnetic attachment of the magnetic member to the magnetic surface prevents separation below the predetermined force. Thus, the conflicting demands of squeak and rattle performance versus pedestrian protection are easily satisfied. |
| US08876194B2 |
Vehicle front body structure
A vehicle front body structure includes a front side member, an A-pillar and a strut tower. The front side member extends in a vehicle longitudinal direction. The A-pillar is coupled to the front side member. The strut tower is positioned forward of the A-pillar and has an inboard side fixedly attached to an outboard section of the front side member. The strut tower also defines a force receiving surface extending between the inboard side and an outboard side. The force receiving surface of the strut tower is configured and arranged to receive a force directed rearward in the vehicle longitudinal direction and redirect at least a portion of the force in a vehicle lateral direction toward the front side member. |
| US08876190B2 |
Air-guiding apparatus
An air-guiding apparatus has a transversely oriented rear spoiler element that can be moved via hydraulic units into different setting positions with respect to the vehicle. An airflow breakaway edge is provided below the spoiler element and is configured to be set additionally to adjust effects of the spoiler element. |
| US08876186B2 |
Breakaway visor retention check
A vehicle visor assembly having a visor which includes a first end pivotally coupled with a header, an intermediate portion, and a second end. A retention check is coupled with the header about a fastener. The retention check includes an outward protruding member for retaining the second end of the visor. A perforation is disposed between the member and the fastener and it is configured to fracture when the member receives an impact force. |
| US08876184B2 |
Package tray with cargo catchment
A vehicle is provided that includes a traction battery housing located rearward of a rear seat. The rear seat is foldable between a seating position and a storage position. A package tray is provided that is attachable to the vehicle in a first position generally vertically spaced from the battery housing, and a second position generally abutting and forward of the battery housing. The package tray includes a pair of rotatable posts and a net connecting the posts. The package tray further includes receptacles formed on the package tray for receiving the posts when the posts are rotated downward towards the package tray. |
| US08876183B2 |
High retention trim attachment system
A trim panel having at least one bracket portion which is releasably coupled to a bracket member having a clip receiving assembly. A clip is received in the clip receiving assembly and adapted to couple to a car body. The clip is a high retention clip adapted to retain the trim panel on the car body during an air curtain deployment event. The trim panel is further adapted to be removeable from the bracket member to allow access to an underlying air curtain deployment mechanism. The trim panel is adapted to be removed from the bracket member while the bracket member and clip assembly remain coupled to a car body in a vehicle interior. |
| US08876182B2 |
Integrated two dimensional robotic palm for variable pitch positioning of multiple transfer devices
A handling device includes a base plate defining an X-Y plane, a plurality of X rails movably supported on the base plate and extending in an X-direction, a plurality of Y rails movably supported on the base plate and extending in a Y-direction perpendicular to the X-direction and a drive system supported on the base plate for moving the X rails in the Y-direction and for moving the Y rails in the X-direction, wherein a spacing between the X rails varies as the X rails move, and wherein a spacing between the Y rails varies as the Y rails move, and wherein the spacing between the X-rails is continuously variable with respect to the spacing between the Y rails. |
| US08876178B1 |
Sliding door handle with pivot pins
A door handle for a sliding door having a handle and a handle base having a pair of opposed arms. The arms are provided with corresponding clips, each clip having an opening that receives a corresponding pivot pin. The handle pivots between the arms on the pivot pins. The pins are axially aligned and slidably installed in the clips for sliding motion to extend towards and retract away from each other, into and out of engagement with the handle. With the pins extended, they engage the handle, preferably with each pin engaging a corresponding insert in each end of the handle. With the pins retracted, the handle may be removed from between the arms of the handle base. The pins are preferably held in the extended position with corresponding wedges that snap into the corresponding clips behind the pins. |
| US08876177B2 |
Handle system
According to one embodiment, there is provided a handle system including; a main body mounted to a mounting hole in a board; an operating member supported rotatably on the main body; a lock member locks/unlocks the board with a lock receiver in a vehicle's luggage compartment; and a cover adapted to a back surface of the main body, wherein the main body has a pair of side walls in which a pair of shaft holes are formed, a base portion positioned between the side walls, and a pair of elastic claws provided on the base portion to movably hold the lock member therebetween, wherein the operating member has a pair of projecting shafts which are inserted into the pair of shaft holes, and wherein the cover has opening suppressing portions which suppress an opening movement of the elastic claws. |
| US08876176B2 |
Latch assembly
A latch assembly includes a chassis, a latch bolt moveably mounted on the chassis and having a closed position for retaining a striker and an open position for releasing the striker, a pawl having an engaged position at which the pawl is engaged with the latch bolt to hold the latch bolt in the closed position and a disengaged position at which the pawl is disengaged from the latch bolt, thereby allowing the latch bolt to move to the open position, an eccentric arrangement defining an eccentric axis and a pawl axis remote from the eccentric axis. The eccentric arrangement is rotatable about the eccentric axis, and the pawl is rotatable about the pawl axis. When the pawl moves from the engaged position to the disengaged position, the eccentric arrangement rotates in one of a clockwise and a counter-clockwise direction about the eccentric axis. With the pawl in the engaged position, a force applied to the pawl by the latch bolt creates a turning moment on the eccentric arrangement in the one of the clockwise and counter-clockwise direction, and the eccentric arrangement is prevented from rotating in said one of the clockwise and counter-clockwise direction by a moveable abutment. |
| US08876174B2 |
Motorcycle paraphernalia locking system
This disclosure relates to a novel concept regarding the specific latching mechanism to provide a secure and easily releasable device. The latching mechanism is used to attach an accessory such as a luggage rack or the sissy bar to a motorcycle or equivalent. |
| US08876173B2 |
Substrate storage pod and lid opening/closing system for the same
The substrate storage pod includes an engagement portion in an outer side surface of a lid of the pod, and an insertion slot through which the engagement portion can be accessed from an external space; the insertion slot is formed in a flange portion arranged around the periphery of an opening in the pod and into which the lid can be fitted, and a latch mechanism supported so as to be slidable in a direction parallel to a flange side wall in a pod main body-surface of the flange portion. An engaging portion of the latch mechanism reaches the engagement portion via the insertion slot. The engagement portion is switched between an engaged state and a non-engaged state in response to movement of the latch mechanism. |
| US08876170B2 |
Tapered drive nut for conduit fitting
A drive nut for a fitting includes an interior socket centered on a central axis and configured to receive at least a rearward portion of a conduit gripping member. The socket is defined by a radial drive surface positioned to engage the conduit gripping member during pull-up, a first longitudinal surface radially outward of said drive surface and a tapered second longitudinal surface between the drive surface and the first longitudinal surface, wherein a conduit gripping device contacts the second longitudinal surface upon an initial pull-up and each remake. This geometry facilitates a greater number of available remakes by reducing lost stroke, and can provide less stroke loss for fittings pulled up by torque. |
| US08876169B2 |
Cam-lock actuating device for use in a locking coupling assembly that couples two tubular members
A cam-lock actuating device for use in a locking coupling assembly that couples two tubular members, includes an actuatable lever having a head pivotally mounted on a female tubular coupler, an angularly positioning member coupled to be turned with the head, and leading and trailing releasably retaining members independently disposed on at least one of the head and the angularly positioning member such that, during turning of the actuatable lever to an unlocked position, the trailing releasably retaining member can be held in partially locking engagement with a male tubular coupler to prevent complete removal of the male tubular coupler from the female tubular coupler while permitting gradual relief of internal pressure. |
| US08876166B2 |
Sanitizing lid and dispatch service thereof
An apparatus can include a generally planar portion approximately in a plane. The apparatus can also include a lip portion extending in a direction generally orthogonal to the plane. The generally planar portion is joined to the lip portion at a circumferential edge of the generally planar portion to form a cover for a beverage container. The lip portion includes a sterilizing agent configured to sterilize a rim portion of the beverage container. Likewise, a method can include providing contact information on a disposable cover adapted to cover a beverage container. The contact information is not provided by the manufacturer of the beverage or beverage container. The method can also include receiving contact from a user of the disposable cover. The method can further include coordinating the delivery of a service to the user of the disposable cover responsive to the contact received from the user. |
| US08876164B2 |
Mud flap bracket assembly
A mud flap bracket assembly comprises a functional frame bracket assembly and one or more interchangeable bracket covers. The frame bracket assembly has unitary frame bracket that is formed from a sheet metal blank that is configured to form and integral spring mount and integral slots to mount a frame seat. The frame bracket has integral slots that mount mud flap clips that are adjustable within the slots for mounting mud flaps of different hole configurations. The frame bracket assembly is assembled with integral fasteners and without welds. |
| US08876163B2 |
Oil storage tank and construction vehicle
An oil storage tank includes a step member, a first tank part and a second tank part. The step member has a placement face. The first tank part is disposed below the step member to support the step member. The second tank part is coupled to the first tank part and has an upper face a lower face, a first side face, a second side face and a recessed section. The upper face is provided above the placement face. The first side face faces the first tank part and is connected to the upper face and the lower face. The second side face is connected to the upper face, the lower face and the first side face. The recessed section is formed by a sloped face provided to a corner portion at which the upper face, the first side face and the second side face intersect. |
| US08876157B2 |
System for protection of a vulnerable road user and method for operating the system
A method is provided for operating a system of a vehicle for protection of a vulnerable road user. The system includes a remote sensor, a contact-based sensor, and a pedestrian protection device. The method may include scanning a region in front of the vehicle by the remote sensor to detect a target object and, if a target object is detected, classifying the target object into an object category based on information from the remote sensor. The method may also include selecting the selectable fire interval of an evaluation algorithm using the object category as input and, if an impact is detected by the contact-based sensor, the contact-based sensor sending information about the impact to the evaluation algorithm. The method may also include the evaluation algorithm evaluating if the signal is within the selectable fire interval, and in that case activating the pedestrian protection device. |
| US08876156B2 |
Reduced volume air bag
An apparatus (10) for helping to protect an occupant (20) of a vehicle (12) includes an inflatable vehicle occupant protection device (14) having a deflated condition and an inflated condition. The protection device (14) includes a front portion (70) that has a panel (72) presented toward the occupant (20) when the protection device (14) is in the inflated condition and a rear portion (80) spaced from the front portion (70) when the protection device (14) is in the inflated condition. A lower connecting portion (90) connects the front portion (70) to the rear portion (80) and defines the lower extent of the protection device (14). A space (100) is positioned outside the inflatable volume (60) of the protection device (14) and is defined between the front portion (70), the connecting portion (90), and the rear portion (80). The space (100) extends from an upper extent of the protection device (14) down to below a midline of the protection device (14). |
| US08876155B2 |
Curtain airbag device for vehicle
A vehicle curtain airbag device capable of improving an occupant ejection preventing performance at an end of a vehicle in the longitudinal direction and providing an excellent impact absorbing function when receiving an occupant in a vehicle interior. A front strap is provided between a seam portion that divides a front chamber positioned at an end of a vehicle longitudinal direction from an adjacent main chamber, and a front pillar positioned at the end of the vehicle longitudinal direction so as to connect the seam portion to the front pillar, on an outer surface of the front chamber. A height position of a first connecting portion (P) between the front pillar and the front strap is set to be higher than a height position of a second connecting portion (Q) between the seam portion and the front strap. The front strap is set to be shorter than a length between the first connecting portion and a position to which the second connecting portion tries to move according to the inflation and deployment if the front strap is not present, and is stretched substantially linearly between the first and second connecting portions by the inflated and deployed front chamber. |
| US08876154B2 |
Vehicle seat assembly having a back panel module
A vehicle seat assembly having a back panel module configured to conceal an air bag module disposed in a seat back. A back panel module may have a back panel and a side panel. The back panel and the side panel may extend along the lateral side of the seat back and form an exterior surface of the back panel module. |
| US08876153B2 |
Airbag assembly
An airbag includes a rear panel, a front panel, and an extension panel. The rear panel has an inflation aperture for receiving an inflation gas. The front panel has at least one communication aperture, and the front panel is connected to the rear panel at a peripheral seam to define a primary inflatable portion having a central axis. The extension panel has an inner edge that is connected to the front panel at a location that is offset from the central axis of the primary inflatable portion and an outer edge that is connected to at least one of the front panel or the rear panel to define a secondary inflatable portion that is in communication with the primary inflatable portion through the at least one communication aperture. When inflated by the inflation gas, the secondary inflatable portion extends outward with respect to the front panel toward a vehicle occupant. |
| US08876146B2 |
Child carrier system
A convertible child carrier is provided comprising a pair of opposing central hub members having telescopic rear legs pivotally attached the hub members at a first end. Each of the legs has a pivotable wheel affixed to a second end. The child carrier further includes a yoke member generally defining an arch-like shape that is also pivotally attached to both of the pair of hub members. An additional wheel is affixed a central section of the yoke member. The child carrier further includes a handle member pivotally attached to each of the hub members, a seating portion disposed between the distal ends of the yoke member, and a storage portion affixed to the handle member defining an internal storage cavity. The rear legs, the yoke member, and the handle member each may pivot to a stowed configuration such that the storage portion encompasses the members within the storage cavity. |
| US08876142B1 |
Adapter with S-cam
An adapter which serves as an anchor point for coupling a trailer to a vehicle. The adapter adapted for mating in the socket of the vehicle. The adapter rotatable between a locked and an unlocked position. The adapter including a locking member which, when rotated, moves a ball partially through an aperture, partially extending into the socket thereby locking the adapter within the socket. |
| US08876126B1 |
Shopping cart release
A shopping cart is provided with controlled frictional release devices incorporating ramps that prevent a nestable shopping cart from becoming overly engaged with a docking cart. |
| US08876124B2 |
Ice skate overshoe
An ice skate overshoe includes; an upper portion; a sole connected to the upper portion; a blade connected to the sole; where the upper portion is made substantially of stretchable rubber; where the upper portion is configured stretchable and capable to return substantially to its original state; where the upper portion comprises a first opening configured as an entrance for a footwear; where the upper portion is configured to stretch over the footwear to secure the ice skate overshoe to the footwear; where the sole is configured to support a footwear bottom; where the sole is configured substantially rigid; where the blade is configured substantially rigid; where the blade is rigidly attached to the sole; where the blade is configured operable to engage with an ice surface; where the ice skate overshoe is configured to wear over the footwear; and where the ice skate overshoe is configured operable to skate on the ice surface. |
| US08876123B2 |
Exoskeleton and footwear attachment system
An exoskeleton (E) for connecting footwear to sporting equipment. The exoskeleton has an underfoot base (7), an ankle cuff (3) connected to a heel portion of the underfoot base, a first restraining brace (2a) having an anterior end connected to the medial side of a forefoot portion of the underfoot base (7), and extending rearwardly and diagonally at least to the lateral side of the ankle cuff, and a second restraining brace (2b) having an anterior end connected to the lateral side of the forefoot portion of the underfoot base (7), and extending rearwardly and diagonally at least to the medial side of the ankle cuff. The first and second restraining braces (2a, 2b) are configured such that when an item of footwear is enclosed by the exoskeleton (E), the restraining braces extend over and support a portion of the item of footwear. |
| US08876122B2 |
Level control for vehicles having at least one air spring
A level control for vehicles has at least one air spring cushioning a vehicle body relative to a vehicle axle. A compressed air generator is connected to the air spring by an air dryer and to the atmosphere by a check valve opening in the intake direction of the generator. The air spring can be connected to the atmosphere for discharge via a pneumatically controllable first directional valve. The air spring pressure is applied to a pneumatic control input of the first directional valve via a second controllable directional valve. The input of the first directional valve can be connected to the atmosphere for ending discharge of the spring. A line with a compressed air accumulator branches off from the air spring supply line via a first changeover valve. The accumulator is connected to the intake side of the generator via a second changeover valve. |
| US08876119B2 |
Grommet and seal assembly for cooling pipes passing through sound wall
A grommet and seal assembly enables a pair of ducts to pass through a sound wall that separates an engine from a cooling system. The disclosed grommet and seal assembly enables the sound wall to flex without breaking the seal between the grommets and the air ducts. The grommet and seal assembly may include a pair of flexible grommets which are installed in openings in the sound wall and through which the air ducts are installed. Rigid proximal and distal plates may then be coupled together so that the flexible grommets are sandwiched between the proximal and distal plates. Each flexible grommet may include dual flanges and all four flanges may be sandwiched between the proximal and distal plates after the proximal and distal plates are coupled together. A center plate may also be included between the flanges and between the proximal and distal plates for additional structural integrity. |
| US08876115B2 |
Three-piece oil-control ring for an internal combustion engine
A three-piece oil control ring is provided for use in a piston groove of an internal combustion engine. The ring comprises a first annular segment and a second annular segment, associated to an expanding element. The expander has a substantially annular shape and comprises a first end facing the internal wall of the groove when the ring is mounted on the piston and a second opposite end. The ring further comprises an intermediate portion having at least one protrusion for association with the segments. Still further, the first end exhibits first thickness value (E1), the second end exhibits second thickness value (E2) and the substantially intermediate portion exhibits third thickness value (E3), wherein the value of (E1) is substantially lower than the value of (E3) and lower or similar to the value of (E2), the difference between (E1) and (E3) being substantially higher than that between (E1) and (E2). |
| US08876114B2 |
Three-dimensional archery target
The present invention is a three-dimensional archery target that simulates an animal and has multiple primary target zones disposed on a central body section. A front end section which includes a head and a rear end section which includes a tail are interchangeably mounted on the central body section. Similarly, front and rear leg sections are also interchangeably mounted on the central body section so that the central body section can be selectively reversed, thereby changing the orientation of the animal's front to back on the target. By reversing the target's orientation, the designated primary target zones can be changed on the central body section, thereby extending the useable life of the archery target. |
| US08876113B2 |
Strategy, and training game and method for enhancing memorization and decision making
A chess variant strategy game enhancing decision-making skills and memorization comprises most pieces being concealed within housing shells, except for the King, so that players must identify and memorize the opponent's game pieces from their movements. The use of at least one “hold and secure” placeholder on a square allows a player to “hold and secure” squares upon capturing an opponent's piece on that square and more realistically emulates battle situations. A method for training comprising plural training phases, including increasingly complex rules variations, all of which have game pieces concealed within housing shells and the “hold and secure” feature, and some or all pieces starting in non-traditional chess starting positions. The phases are customizable with different variations and may include time constraints, variable piece starting positions and alternative goals, as well as other features that alter the conditions and parameters of play. |
| US08876112B2 |
Dry-erasable game board
A travel game-board activity kit is provided. The activity kit includes a plurality of dry-erase marking instruments, a plurality of magnetic game pieces, and a plurality of pages having game-board images printed thereon. The plurality of pages includes one or more magnetic sections, and a surface configured to accept markings from the plurality of dry-erase marking instruments and to allow erasure of the markings. The surface of the plurality of pages that accepts dry-erase markings may also include one or more dry-erase sections configured to aid players in tracking game progress, such as on a dry-erase scoreboard. The activity kit may also include a storage container attached to the plurality of pages, which holds the dry-erase marking instruments and/or the magnetic game pieces. In some embodiments, the activity kit includes an electronic component coupled to the plurality of pages for providing desired information, lights, and/or sounds usable for play. |
| US08876105B2 |
Paper feeding device and image forming apparatus
A remaining amount detector measures beforehand a distance H where there is one sheet. A motor displaces a lifting plate to a paper-feeding position upon storing paper in the feeding unit. The remaining amount detector measures a distance y1 to the lower face of a paper stack. Thereafter, upon transport of paper from the stack, a control unit causes the remaining amount detector to measure a distance y2 for every predetermined number n of fed sheets. A remaining sheet calculation unit calculates a displacement y1−y2=Δy to the bottom of the paper stack S, and calculates the thickness of one sheet on the basis of the displacement Δy and the number n of fed sheets (t=Δy/n). The remaining sheet calculation unit divides the thickness (H−y2) of the paper stack by the thickness t of one paper sheet, and calculates the number of remaining sheets m as (m=((H−y2)/t)+1). |
| US08876102B2 |
Paper sheet takeout device with air supply port directed differently than negative pressure chamber opening
In one embodiment, a supply mechanism is provided. The supply mechanism supplies accumulated paper sheets to a takeout position sequentially. A takeout belt having adsorption hole runs along a surface of the takeout position. An opening of a negative pressure chamber is arranged so as to face the takeout belt. A suction unit sucks air existing at the takeout position via the opening and the adsorption holes. The suction unit causes a negative pressure to act on each of the paper sheets so that each is adsorbed onto an adsorption surface of the takeout belt. The suction unit has an air supply port to supply air into the negative pressure chamber. The air supply port is arranged so that the air supplied via the air supply port is directed to a position and in a direction different from those of the opening. |
| US08876099B2 |
Profiled chain tops for a conveyor
A saddle stitcher for conveying a printed product is provided. The saddle stitcher includes a saddle chain conveyor, and a plurality of chain tops mounted on the saddle chain conveyor defining a chain top conveyance line for transporting a printed product. At least one of the chain tops includes a profiled top edge so the at least one chain top does not extend beyond the chain top conveyance line in a transition area. A method for transferring a printed product is also provided. |
| US08876096B2 |
Method and apparatus for forming an angled flange
A method and apparatus comprising a structure and a locking magnet. The structure comprises a retaining portion and a magnetic portion. The retaining portion of the structure is configured to receive a first section of a workpiece such that a second section of the workpiece is positioned at an angle relative to the magnetic portion of the structure. The magnetic portion of the structure is positioned at a first side of the workpiece. The locking magnet is configured to exert an attractive force that causes the magnetic portion of the structure to move towards the second section of the workpiece when the locking magnet is positioned at a second side of the workpiece. |
| US08876094B1 |
Multi-axis energy attenuating mount
Methods and apparatus are provided for a mounting system adapted to attenuate a shock load imparted by a structure to an object being supported by the structure. In one exemplary embodiment the mounting system comprises a mounting plate with a perimeter portion, a central boss, and an array of at least two symmetrically arranged perforations extending through the mounting plate between the perimeter portion and the central boss. The perforations are arranged so as to cooperatively define at least two deformable links that interconnect the central boss with the perimeter portion of the mounting plate, wherein the deformable links are adapted to attenuate the shock load through plastic deformation. |
| US08876086B2 |
Fragrance emitter
An apparatus for emitting a fragrance includes an enclosure that has at least one inlet and at least one outlet. The at least one outlet has a cross-sectional area smaller than a cross-sectional area of the at least one inlet. The enclosure further includes a Venturi-type nozzle that defines the at least one outlet. The apparatus also includes a fragrance source positioned within the enclosure and an air mover positioned within the enclosure. The air mover is operable to draw fresh air into the enclosure through the at least one inlet and drive the drawn fresh air across the fragrance source to transfer fragrance material from the fragrance source to the fresh air to form an air-fragrance mixture. The Venturi-type nozzle of the enclosure accelerates the air-fragrance mixture through the at least one outlet. |
| US08876085B2 |
Jack foot retraction system
A system for supporting a vehicle. The system may include a vehicle jack in mechanical communication with a jack foot and a striker plate. The jack foot is rotatable relative to the vehicle jack on a rotation axis disposed on the vehicle jack and perpendicular to a long axis of the vehicle jack. The jack foot includes a base at a distal end of the jack foot. The jack foot also includes a cam surface at least in part at a proximal end of the jack foot. The cam surface is aligned with the striker plate and interacts with the striker plate to rotate the jack foot in response to movement of the vehicle jack from a lowered position to a raised position. |
| US08876083B2 |
Valve and method of supporting a seal of a valve
Disclosed herein is a valve. The valve includes a first member having a first port therethrough, a second member in operable communication with the first member having a sealing surface thereon and a second port therethrough that is movable relative to the first member. The valve also has a seal sealingly engaged with the first member and slidably sealingly engagable with the second member, and a support member movably disposed relative to the first member and the second member. The support member has a support surface dimensioned similarly to the sealing surface, and is movable with the second member relative to the first member so that upon such movement the seal is continuously supported by at least one of the sealing surface and the support surface. |
| US08876078B1 |
HVAC inspection frame device
An HVAC inspection frame device facilitates inspection within an HVAC system. The device includes a frame having a perimeter wall defining a channel extending through the frame. A lower flange is coupled to the frame extending inwardly into the channel from an interior face of the perimeter wall. Thus, the lower flange is configured for supporting the frame on a furnace. An upper flange is coupled to the frame extending inwardly into the channel from the interior face of the perimeter wall. Thus, the upper flange is configured to support the evaporator coil on the upper flange. An aperture is positioned in the perimeter wall for insertion of an optical inspection device to provide an image of the evaporator coil or furnace without time consuming disassembly or drilling of existing structure. A plug is insertable into the aperture engaging the perimeter wall and closing the aperture. |
| US08876069B2 |
Container mixing stand
A container mixing stand for securing a container for mixing includes a base plate, a first holding member connected to the base plate and a second holding member movably connected to the base plate and spaced from the first holding member for receiving a container between the first and second holding members. The stand also includes a first pulley assembly having a lever arm movable between a rest position and a tensioning position, and a second pulley assembly coupled with both the second holding member and the first pulley assembly. Movement of the first pulley assembly from the rest position to the tensioning position causes the second pulley assembly to move the second holding member into contact with the container for securing the container in position during mixing. |
| US08876067B2 |
Bracket
A fire sprinkler fitting support bracket (100) is disclosed for mounting fire sprinkler tee-fitting (30) to a building structural component (5). The bracket (100) includes a mounting portion (103), and a cradle portion (101) cantilevered from the mounting portion (103). The cradle portion (101) is configured to receive and support the fitting body (32) on a concave surface (190a, 190b) thereof. The fitting (30), which may be a tee fitting, elbow fitting, or the like, is detachable from the bracket (100). |
| US08876066B1 |
Hanger with bolt closures
A pipe hanger method and apparatus wherein a bolt is threaded upwardly through a first opening within a lower arm portion of a saddle, then, in one form, through an opening in a liner, then through a larger opening in the upper arm portion of the saddle. The opening is non-cylindrical in shape. A nut is then installed on the bolt. The nut has a tapered end portion which interoperates with the shape of the opening in the upper arm of the saddle. The nut is hand-tightened and then is aligned with the opening so that the small end portion would drop into the opening. A wrench is then used on the head of the bolt to rotate the bolt for the purpose of drawing the nut and bolt together and applying a clamping force on a pipe positioned within the saddle. The liner extends along the inside of the bolt and then extends about the pipe, between it and the bight of the saddle, and then in one form extends along the inside of the upper arm portion. |
| US08876065B2 |
Flap roller arrangement, flap assembly, and method for removing a roller assembly from a flap fitting
A flap roller arrangement for supporting a flap on a wing of an aircraft is disclosed herein. The flap roller arrangement includes, but is not limited to, a roller assembly that is configured for rolling engagement with a flap track of the wing and for engagement with a flap fitting. The flap roller arrangement further includes a retaining member that is removably coupled to the roller assembly. The roller assembly is configured to egress through an opening in the flap fitting in a direction away from the flap track. The retaining member is configured to obstruct egress of the roller assembly through the opening when the retaining member is coupled to the roller assembly. The roller assembly is enabled to egress through the opening when the retaining member is removed from the roller assembly. |
| US08876061B1 |
Methods and systems for beam powered propulsion
A method for producing a heated fluid for use within an engine for propulsion of a vehicle is described. The method includes receiving cooled fluid from a fluid source, directing the cooled fluid between a first window configured to operate as a structural member of the engine and a second window configured to separate the cooled fluid from a heated fluid, passing an electromagnetic beam through the first window and the second window, absorbing the passed electromagnetic beam with a heat exchanger within the engine, and directing the cooled fluid through the heat exchanger to become heated fluid. |
| US08876059B2 |
Bidirectional control surfaces for use with high speed vehicles, and associated systems and methods
Vehicles with bidirectional control surfaces and associated systems and methods are disclosed. In a particular embodiment, a rocket can include a plurality of bidirectional control surfaces positioned toward an aft portion of the rocket. In this embodiment, the bidirectional control surfaces can be operable to control the orientation and/or flight path of the rocket during both ascent, in a nose-first orientation, and descent, in a tail-first orientation for, e.g., a tail-down landing. |
| US08876056B2 |
Aircraft fuel system
An aircraft fuel system including a fuel line for carrying liquid fuel, and a microwave energy transmitter for energizing water carried in the fuel line. Also, a method of suppressing ice formation in an aircraft fuel system, the fuel system including a fuel line carrying liquid fuel, and a microwave energy transmitter, the method comprising transmitting microwaves along the fuel line to energize water carried with the fuel in the fuel line. |
| US08876054B2 |
De-icing device comprising means for detection of a leakage in a hot air supply system
A device for defrosting a leading edge of an aircraft, includes at least one opening (52) for ejecting hot air, a pipe (56) for directing the hot air from a power plant to the ejection opening (52), and elements (58) for measuring the pressure inside the pipe (56), characterized in that the pipe (56) includes at least one cross-section reduction called a chokepoint (62) upstream from the elements (58) for measuring pressure. |
| US08876053B2 |
Fuselage element comprising a fuselage segment and junction means, fuselage portion, fuselage and aircraft
A fuselage element including a first fuselage segment including a skin, and a junction device for connecting the first segment to a second adjacent fuselage segment is disclosed. The first segment extending along the longitudinal axis of the fuselage element includes stiffening elements extending along the axis. The end of at least one stiffening element extends beyond a free edge of the skin by a predetermined length. |
| US08876049B2 |
Section of aircraft fuselage in composite material with a constant internal profile
The disclosed embodiments concern an aircraft fuselage section made of composite material with an internal skeleton having frames that form the radial structure of the fuselage and stringers that form the longitudinal structure of said fuselage, and a skin made of composite material, surrounding the internal skeleton, with said skin having an evolving thickness along a longitudinal axis X, with an approximately constant, regular interior profile. The disclosed embodiments also concern a process for manufacturing the skin of an aircraft fuselage section made of composite material, having a draping operation for strips of fibers precoated with resin around a mold, with the number of strips of fibers varying longitudinally depending on the area of the fuselage being considered so as to create a skin with an evolving thickness. |
| US08876048B2 |
Fuselage of an aircraft or spacecraft and corresponding aircraft or spacecraft
The invention relates to a fuselage of an air- or spacecraft. The fuselage comprises at least one shell element and one insulation element. The insulation element is configured as a passive, watertight insulation element and can be mounted on an inner side in a completely air- and watertight manner. The invention furthermore relates to a respective aircraft or spacecraft. |
| US08876047B2 |
Harpoon head and corresponding harpoon
A harpoon head (6) for a system for anchoring an aircraft on a grating (4) is characterized in that a distal end of the harpoon head has an interchangeable insert (20). |
| US08876046B2 |
Remotely actuated wind tunnel model rudder using shape memory alloy
A rotational actuator assembly employs a first torsion actuator having a shape memory alloy (SMA) tube with a first trained twist direction and a second torsion actuator having a SMA tube with an opposite trained twist direction collinear with the first torsion actuator with abutting proximal ends. A central fitting joins the proximal ends. A control system for temperature control of the first torsion actuator and second torsion actuator about an average temperature provides combined antagonistic rotation of the central fitting. |
| US08876045B2 |
Aircraft actuator control apparatus
A plurality of hydraulically operated actuators that drive a control surface and a plurality of control systems that respectively control the operation of the actuators are included. Each of the control systems includes a control valve, a state switching valve and a test orifice circuit. The test orifice circuit includes a test orifice used for testing the performance of an orifice. The state switching valve is provided such that its position can be switched between an actuator connection position, a damping position and a test orifice position. |
| US08876039B2 |
Folding wing for aircraft
A folding wing for an aircraft comprises first and second inboard wing sections, and first and second outboard wing sections. The first and second inboard wing sections rotate about a centerline hinge, and a centerline spring applies force to the first and second inboard wing sections to rotate the first and second inboard wing sections from a stowed position to a deployed position. At least one of the first and second inboard wing sections translates along the axis of rotation of the first and second inboard wing sections as they move from the stowed to the deployed positions. The first and second outboard wing sections rotate between the stowed and the deployed positions about first and second outboard hinges. |
| US08876038B2 |
Ducted fan for VTOL vehicles with system and method to reduce roll moments
A ducted fan for a VTOL vehicle includes a substantially cylindrical duct having an inlet at an upper end and an outlet at a lower end, and an air mover unit located within the substantially cylindrical duct. The duct also includes inner and outer wall portions and a substantially annular upper lip connecting the inner and outer wall portions, thus defining the inlet. The substantially annular upper lip has opposed fore and aft portions and opposed side portions and is provided with at least first and second openings, respectively, at each of the opposed side portions. The first and second arrays of openings permit flow of air into at least first and second respective chambers formed within the duct, the first and second chambers connected by at least one passageway to thereby enable substantial equalization of surface pressure at the opposed side portions of the substantially annular upper lip. |
| US08876035B2 |
Winding core for coil winding device
A winding core for a coil winding device having a column shape with corners each having a rounded cross-section is used for forming a coil by winding a wire around the winding core into the coil of a polygonal shape. The winding core includes a helical continuous surface extending spirally around an axis of the winding core. |
| US08876031B2 |
Fishing reel with dual spool spin axes
A fishing reel with dual spool spin axes includes a housing, a rotor assembly rotatably mounted on the housing, and a spool shroud assembly including a fishing line spool gimbal mounted on the rotor assembly. The shroud assembly is movable between a casting position with a spool axis parallel to a rod axis and a retrieve position with the spool axis perpendicular to the rod axis. The spool is geared to the housing in such a manner that rotation of the rotor assembly about a rotor axis to retrieve the line causes the spool to spin about the rotor axis and simultaneously about a spool axis to counteract twist in the line caused by the manner of casting the line or by line pay-out by a hooked fish. |
| US08876030B2 |
Mobile crusher
A mobile crusher (2) is provided that can be displaced on four caterpillars and that includes a supporting frame (20), a large hopper (31), an apron conveyor (32), a sizer (34) and an intermediate conveyor (36) for use in strip-mining. The material is received by the shovel (1) of a shovel excavator or a wheel loader, is fed to the crusher (2), crushed and is then transferred onto a conveyor plant via a discharge conveyor system. The crusher (2) has to follow at the same cycle in which the shovel excavator moves forward during an advance in mining. In order to obtain a good maneuverability of the crusher (2), the two front caterpillars (22) are driven and can be steered like a two-caterpillar chassis. As the crusher (2) is subject to high loads, all components have to have a robust design. For this purpose, the individual functional groups are accommodated in a stable supporting frame (20). The crushed material is transferred onto a subsequent bench conveyor via an evolving conveyor directly connected to the mobile crusher (2), a transfer conveyor or a mobile bridge. The plant can be displaced while under full useful load. |
| US08876028B2 |
Method for operating an agitator ball mill
A method for operating an agitator ball mill with a cylindrical grinding container is disclosed. The grinding container includes at least one grinding stock inlet and at least one grinding stock outlet. An agitator shaft connected to a drive is disposed in the grinding container. The agitator shaft transmits a part of the drive energy of the drive to the auxiliary grinding bodies. The auxiliary grinding bodies are distributed loosely in the grinding container. Furthermore, the agitator ball mill includes a separation device assigned to the grinding stock outlet, wherein the separation device is disposed around a rotational axis and/or rotates around this rotational axis. The separation device includes at least two components, whereof one component is at least one separation device and a second component is a dynamic element for generating a material flow. |
| US08876026B2 |
Method and system for orienting solar powered irrigation systems
An irrigation system includes a central pivot; a main section pivotally connected to the central pivot; and at least one solar panel supported on the main section. A control system positions the main section relative to the central pivot so that the solar panel faces the sun. |
| US08876025B1 |
Variable flow showerhead
A showerhead operable to reduce water consumption configured to detect the presence of an individual within the spray pattern of water exiting the showerhead. The showerhead further includes a housing having an internal volume that is configured to receive and discharge water. A sensor is integrally mounted to the discharge surface of the housing and is operable to detect either the presence or absence of an individual within the spray pattern of water. A valve is disposed within the housing and is operable to control the water volume exiting the housing. The showerhead being operable to discharge substantially all of the water volume available thereto upon the detection of an individual within the spray pattern and further being operable to discharge a water volume that is less than the water volume available thereto to upon detection of an absence of an individual within the spray pattern. |
| US08876022B2 |
Droplet discharge head and droplet discharge apparatus
The present invention relates to a droplet discharge apparatus that includes a nozzle for discharging a droplet from a tip thereof, and a discharge unit for injecting a gas toward the tip of the nozzle. |
| US08876015B2 |
Hook bolt for the attachment of rails to hollow sleepers
A hook bolt for fastening rails to hollow sleepers, in particular steel sleepers, including an engagement element made of cast metal, which has a hook-shaped insertion section and a contact section, which has a receiving space for receiving a threaded element, wherein the threaded element has a threaded bolt and a receiving shoe and the receiving shoe is dimensioned in such a way that the receiving shoe can be inserted into the receiving space of the contact section in a form-fit manner. |
| US08876009B2 |
Tamper sensitive RFID tag
A tamper sensitive RFID tag includes a housing defining a channel that is configured to receive a portion of an object associated with the RFID tag. Included with the tamper sensitive RFID tag is a tamper sensitive RFID label that is adhesively secured to a first portion of the housing, and a second securement means for securing the RFID label to a second portion of the housing in a position between the first and second portions. |
| US08876006B2 |
Compact imaging module with adjustable aiming pattern and arrangement for and method of spatially adjusting the aiming pattern
A lightpipe, which is mounted on one chassis part of an imaging module of an imaging reader, optically modifies an aiming beam emitted by an aiming laser, which is mounted on another chassis part of the imaging module, to generate and shape an aiming light pattern on a target. In one embodiment, at least one, or both, of the chassis parts are movable relative to each other to spatially adjust the aiming light pattern relative to an imaging field of view. In another embodiment, the aiming laser and the lightpipe are received in respective pockets of the chassis parts with clearance, and are adjustably fixed in place to spatially adjust the aiming light pattern relative to the imaging field of view. |
| US08876004B2 |
Point-of-transaction workstation for imaging indicia over full coverage scan zone occupied by asymmetrical light collection regions
A bi-optical, dual window, point-of-transaction workstation images indicia associated with multi-sided products over a full coverage scan zone by asymmetrically splitting the field of view of at least one imager into light collection regions of different spatial volumes. The light collection regions fill the scan zone and minimize dead areas therein. A smaller light collection region images one side of the product, while a larger light collection region images more than one side of the product. All sides of the product are imaged in the light collection regions. Twisting of the light collection regions relative to at least one of the windows is minimized so that the light collection regions fit fully with minimal clipping through each window. Illumination light is directed away from a user's eyes. |
| US08875997B2 |
Information card overlay
A computer implemented method may include identifying a base information card stored on a client, determining whether an overlay information card is to be applied to the identified base information card, and selecting the overlay information card. The method may also include generating a final information card by applying the selected overlay information card to the identified base information card. |
| US08875994B2 |
Payment interface
A payment interface apparatus, system and method is disclosed. In particular, a payment interface apparatus for use in vending machines, gaming machines, or other, typically unattended machines that accept payments via a variety of payment methods is disclosed. Also disclosed is a system and method for determining and processing a transaction as a particular transaction type based upon the type of media used on a standardized financial transaction card. The interface apparatus includes a plurality of sensors to read one or a plurality of media on a single standardized financial transaction card in a single presentation of the card. |
| US08875993B2 |
Apparatus for temporarily storing at least one banknote transport container
An apparatus for storing a bill transport container. The apparatus includes a holding compartment for holding the bill transport container. The bill transport container includes a cancellation unit for invalidating bills that are held and a control unit having a timer that triggers the cancellation unit after a preset time interval. A control unit of the apparatus and the control unit of the bill transport container can have a data transmission link set up between them when the bill transport container is held in the holding compartment. This link can be used to transmit data for setting the timer of the control unit. A bill transport container is included in which in a first mode of operation the control unit triggers the cancellation unit after a first preset time interval and in a second mode of operation it triggers the cancellation unit after a second preset time interval. |
| US08875992B2 |
Automated teller machines, methods of making and using automated teller machines
Automated teller machines (ATMs) and ATM components are disclosed. Methods of making and using ATMs and ATM components are also disclosed. |
| US08875991B2 |
Pathway selection
An apparatus and method are disclosed for determining a direction of transport of an item of media. The apparatus includes a diverter housing providing at least four openings through which an item of media is transportable, a pathway guide member in a central chamber region of the housing selectively locatable in at least three orientations, said guide member comprising a plurality of guide surfaces that each guide an item of media travelling on a respective transport pathway, and at least one selection element that selects an orientation of the guide member as each item of media is transported to determine an opening through which an item of media exiting the housing is transported. |
| US08875989B2 |
Portable electronic apparatus, card reader and operation method of card reader
A card reader that is connected to a portable electronic apparatus includes a processor and a memory card controller. The processor receives a trigger signal from the portable electronic apparatus when the portable electronic apparatus is in a standby mode. The memory card controller detects whether at least one memory card is inserted into the card reader and generates a memory card inserting status accordingly. The portable electronic apparatus provides a standby power to the card reader and a first screen based on the trigger signal. The processor receives the memory card inserting status; according to the memory card inserting status, the processor reads contents of the memory card, so that the contents of the memory card are displayed on the first screen. |
| US08875988B2 |
Image forming apparatus, print control method, recording medium
An image forming apparatus including a printing-data-receiving unit configured to receive a printing-data-item including a user identification information item and a password, and to save the printing-data-item in a storage device; a user-authentication unit configured to receive input information specifying a user identification information item of a user, and to authenticate the user based on a managing unit that manages association information associating user identification information items with passwords; a list-display unit configured to cause a display device to display a list of printing-data-items each including the same user identification information item as that of the user; and a printing-control unit configured to execute a printing job of a printing-data-item selected from the list, wherein in the event that there is a printing-data-item that cannot be printed, the printing-control unit does not cancel a printing job of another printing-data-item that can be printed. |
| US08875982B2 |
Container for piece goods
A container for holding a product, preferably a product in pieces, in particular an edible product, such as sweets, chocolates and the like. The container consists of a container body and comprises product side and base retaining means and at least one outlet opening through which the product comes out. The container body has a polygonal base and there are container closing means, consisting of a lid for closing the product outlet opening, which is suitably connected to the container body. |
| US08875980B2 |
Friction stir welding apparatus
In a friction stir welding apparatus, workpiece fixing surface plates (3a, 3b) are installed on a framework (1). In addition, a welding apparatus main body (8) including a bobbin tool (5) having a probe (5a) protruding upward from a gap (4), a spindle (6) configured to attach the bobbin tool (5) to an upper end section thereof, and a spindle driving apparatus (7) configured to pivot the spindle (6) is movably installed at the framework (1) in a longitudinal direction of the gap (4) via linear guide mechanisms (9) installed at both sides of the welding apparatus main body (8). Further, a moving apparatus (10) is installed to move the welding apparatus main body (8) in the longitudinal direction of the gap (4). According to the friction stir welding apparatus, since the welding apparatus main body (8) is supported by the framework (1) via both of the linear guide mechanisms (9), a large welding reaction force can be sufficiently received. In addition, since workpieces (2a, 2b) are welded from a lower side, the workpiece size is not limited by a size of the apparatus. |
| US08875979B2 |
Apparatus and method for determining an alignment of a bondhead of a die bonder relative to a workchuck
Disclosed is an apparatus for determining an alignment of a bondhead of a die bonder relative to a workchuck. Specifically, the apparatus comprises: i) a sensor configured to measure a distance between the bondhead and the sensor; and ii) a positioning device coupled to the sensor, the positioning device being configured to position the sensor relative to a plurality of locations on the bondhead facing the sensor. In particular, the sensor is operative to measure a set of distances between each of the plurality of locations on the bondhead and the sensor, the set of distances being for determining the alignment of the bondhead. A method of determining an alignment of a bondhead of a die bonder relative to a workchuck is also disclosed. |
| US08875976B2 |
System for continuous feeding of filler material for friction stir welding, processing and fabrication
The present invention relates to tools and methods for disposing, coating, repairing, or otherwise modifying the surface of a metal substrate using frictional heating and compressive/shear loading of a consumable metal against the substrate. Embodiments of the invention include friction-based fabrication tooling comprising a non-consumable member with a throat and a consumable member disposed in the throat, wherein consumable filler material is capable of being introduced to the throat in a continuous manner during deposition using frictional heating and compressive/shear loading of the filler material onto the substrate. Preferred embodiments according to the invention include such tools operably configured for applying a force or displacement to the filler material during deposition. Especially preferred embodiments can include using various powder-type consumable materials or combinations during the deposition process to obtain a continuous compositional gradient in the filler material yielding a functionally graded coating on the substrate. |
| US08875975B2 |
Device for friction stir welding with a tension rod
The invention relates to a device for producing a weld seam on work pieces by means of friction stir welding, said device having a welding head (5) with a rotating friction stir welding tool (4), the welding head being guided along the joining region and supported with respect to the work piece (1). In said device an irrecoverable tension rod (3) is provided for support, said rod being able to penetrate the welding region, being supported with its lower end on the work piece (1) in a tensioned manner, and carrying a rail (3b) on its upper end for supporting a counter piece (6) that is mechanically connected to the welding head (5) or to the friction stir welding tool (4). An additional supplementary tool (9) working, when seen in the direction of welding, in front of the friction stir welding tool (4) is provided for removing the upper section (3e) of the tension rod protruding above the welding plane from the welding region. |
| US08875974B2 |
Stapler for mucosectomy
The head of a stapler for mucosectomy comprises an external goblet-shaped body (1) wherein an internal goblet-shaped body (2) is concentrically and slidingly located, at the edge of which a circular blade (3) is fixed. The internal goblet-shaped body (2) is provided with a central hole (5) wherein a rod (6) is slidingly inserted, at the end (7) of which an anvil (8; 8′) is fixed. One or more annular grooves (11), which are parallel and suitably spaced one from the other, are formed on the lateral surface of the rod (6) perpendicularly to the axis thereof. Said grooves (11) are intended to receive a portion of mucosa (9a) which is included in a purse string suture as the mucosa is tied around the rod (6). By retracting the rod (6) in the central hole (5) of the stem (2a) of the internal goblet-shaped body (2) the mucosa to be removed is carried into the internal goblet-shaped body (2). The anvil (8; 8′) and the circular blade (3) are moved closer one to the other, by suitable means, in order to cut the tissues when the stapler is in a closed position. |
| US08875969B2 |
Fastener driving apparatus
A fastener driving apparatus for driving fasteners into a substrate. The fastener driving apparatus is a combination of a motor driven linear motion converter; a compression cylinder; an expansion cylinder and a valve arrangement. The linear motion converter converts a rotational motion of a motor to a linear motion of a compression piston within the compression cylinder causing a gas within the compression cylinder to be compressed. The compressed gas is communicated to the expansion cylinder through the valve arrangement wherein the compressed gas expands causing an anvil coupled to an expansion piston within the expansion cylinder to move axially. The axial movement of the anvil causes a fastener to be driven into the substrate. The fastener driving apparatus is an ergonomically designed portable hand held tool providing comfort to a user, meeting safety standards and performance efficiency requirements. |
| US08875967B2 |
Mechanical scoring and separation of strengthened glass
A strengthened glass sheet is separated into undamaged sheet segments by mechanically scribing one or more vent lines of controlled depth into the sheet surface, the depths of the scribed lines being insufficient to effect sheet separation, and then applying a uniform bending moment across the vent lines to effect separation into multiple sheet segments, the vent lines being scribed from crack initiation sites comprising surface indentations formed proximate to the edges of the glass sheet. |
| US08875965B2 |
Strap assembly for personal items
A strap assembly is provided for securing personal containers. The strap assembly includes an elongated central strap body and first and second carabiners at opposing ends of the strap body. The strap assembly can further include an elongated secondary strap having a first end attached to the central strap body and a second end configured such that the second end can attach to either the first carabiner or the second carabiner interchangeably. |
| US08875963B2 |
Fishing rod holder
A holder for transporting one or more fishing rods having first and second parallel rod supports, spaced notches in the top of the first rod support, corresponding spaced openings in the second rod support, a pair of similarly sized clamping bars each pivotally affixed at one end to opposite ends of the first rod support, compression material covering the notches in the first support, a constant support mechanism connecting each clamping bar to the first rod support, and a latch releasably securing the clamping bars to the first rod support. Fishing poles are positioned with the tips in the openings of the second rod support and the handles in corresponding notches in the first rod support, with the clamping bar maintained in an open position at any angle by the constant support mechanism. The clamping bar is closed with the compression material compressing around and securing the handle within the notch, and secured closed with the latch. |
| US08875960B2 |
Tilting-type automatic molten metal pouring method, tilting control system, and storage medium having tilting control program stored therein
A method of automatically pouring molten metal from a ladle into a mold by tilting the ladle. In the method, the height of molten metal located above a molten metal outlet and the weight of molten metal flowing out of the ladle are estimated using an expanded Kalman filter on the basis of: the weight of the molten metal flowing out of the ladle, said weight being measured using a load cell; the voltage inputted to a servo motor; the angle of tilt of the ladle measured by a rotary encoder; and the position of the ladle in the lifting and lowering direction thereof. The sum of the weight of the molten metal flowing out of the ladle when the ladle is tilted rearward, said weight being estimated from the angle of tilt of the ladle and the height of the molten metal located above the molten metal outlet estimated by the expanded Kalman filter, and the weight of the molten metal flowing out of the ladle estimated by the expanded Kalman filter are estimated as the final weight of outflowing molten metal. The estimated final weight of outflowing molten metal is determined whether or not to be greater than or equal to a specific weight of outflow, and the operation of rearward tilting of the ladle is started on the basis of the result of the determination. |
| US08875957B2 |
Sealing cap and liquid storage device using the same
A sealing cap is formed of a bottom portion having a first chamber, a first axial opening, and a second axial opening, a cap portion having an opening end, a positionable end, and a second chamber, and a bendable portion integrally extending to an end edge of the opening end from an end edge of the first axial opening close to the cap portion and having a guide groove communicating with the first and second chambers. Besides, the bendable portion can be bended to make the cap portion be positioned to the bottom portion. When the sealing cap is sleeved onto an opening of a container having a flexible elongated tube, the bendable portion can be bended to force the flexible elongated tube for bending and to make the cap portion be positioned to the bottom portion, thus leading to preferable sealing effect. |
| US08875956B2 |
Creamy foam beer dispensing system
A creamy foam beer dispensing system includes a coupler removably securable with a keg, a transportation tube, and a faucet having a handle coupled with a plunger communicating with the transportation tube. The handle is movable among a closed position, an open position, and a creamy foam position. In the closed position, the handle maintains the plunger squeezed against the transportation tube such that no beer flows from the faucet. In the open position, the handle lifts the plunger substantially, completely off the transportation tube such that beer flows smoothly from the faucet. In the creamy foam position, the handle lifts the plunger off the transportation tube a distance such that an aperture created in the transportation tube produces creamy foam flow from the faucet. |
| US08875954B2 |
Dispenser with integral end stop structure
A dispenser includes a hollow body (2) able to be inserted into a bottle, a piston (7) able to slide in the body (2) between raised and lowered position, a hollow stem (8) able to slide in the body (2) to command the actuation of the piston (7), opening and closing element (10) active between the stem (8) and the piston (7) to put in fluid communication the cavity of the stem (8) with the interior of the body, a retaining ring integral with the body (2) and inserted within it, elastic element active between the ring and the stem to contrast the free sliding of the stem and of the piston within the body. The dispenser further includes an end stop structure integral with the body and positioned in a bottom portion thereof to define an end stop arrest for the sliding of the stem within the body. |
| US08875953B2 |
Pump for liquid or viscous product
Pump operable manually or by a utensil held by a user, having an elastically deformable chamber, the inside of which contains a liquid or viscous product, and the outside of which is brought into contact with air at a slit made in this chamber and with a replacement fluid at an opening made on the chamber. The chamber is suited to deforming, by pressing of a user, to create a higher pressure in the product compared to the outside, and to open the slit, allowing a volume of product to escape from it. The chamber is suited to making its deformation elastically disappear, upon cessation of the pressing, to create a lower pressure in the product, in the presence of a flow of replacement fluid through the opening towards the inside, and to close the slit, where the chamber wall is planar in the vicinity of the slit. |
| US08875949B2 |
Beverage dispenser using slurry ice heat transfer
A beverage dispenser that uses a slurry ice heat transfer approach to achieve a lower cost solution for controlling the temperature of a beverage to be dispensed. A cost effective heat transfer approach can be achieved by replacing the cold plate or refrigeration system of prior art beverage dispensers with a slurry ice bath. The invention provides a hopper into which a slurry ice bath is created. The hopper has an access door for receiving ice and an interior valve for dispensing either carbonated water or still water to form a slurry ice bath. Coils containing a beverage to be dispensed are submersed in the slurry ice bath. The slurry ice causes heat to transfer from the coils, thereby maintaining the coils at a certain temperature. |
| US08875946B2 |
Fluid dispenser
A fluid dispenser including a fluid reservoir with a neck defining an opening, a dispenser member, such as a pump or a valve, having a body held in stationary manner in the opening of the reservoir and defining an annular gap between the neck and the body; and a source of radiation disposed in the annular gap. |
| US08875945B1 |
Toy water gun apparatus
A toy water gun apparatus includes a gun housing having a water chamber and a pressurized air chamber in fluid communication with the water chamber. The water chamber preferably includes an expandable bladder for filling with a quantity of water and has a first end and a second end, the first end connected to a water inlet for releasable connection to source of pressurized water such as a municipal water supply, and the second end connected to a nozzle 10 valve. A trigger mechanism is connected to the nozzle valve to selectively open the valve to dispense a stream of water during play. The apparatus utilizes the naturally high pressure of a common faucet tap while the eliminating the necessity of constant pumping in order to maintain a desirable water stream. Pressure in the air chamber is never lost because it is entirely separate from the water-delivery mechanism. |
| US08875942B2 |
Side-grip method for grasping textile items in a vending machine
A side-grip method of grasping and moving textile items in a vending machine from the storage area to the dispensing chute that does not require the textile item to be packaged comprising: (a) providing a stack of folded and unwrapped textile items; (b) providing an article selection mechanism configured with a gripping element; (c) vertically displacing said gripping element until said gripping element reaches a level of a top textile item in said stack; and (d) closing said gripping element solely on said textile item. Disclosed also is a vending machine configured to implement such a method. |
| US08875938B2 |
Lid for packaging container and method of fabrication
Lid for a packaging container comprising an annular member of plastic, having an opening, engagement means adapted to cooperate with complementary engagement means provided on a container. An inner face is oriented toward the container, and an outer face opposite the inner face, and an annular support surface is on one of the inner face and outer face. A panel of plastic and molded separately from the annular member and comprises an inner face oriented toward the container, and an outer face opposite the inner face, one of the inner face and outer face of the panel being positioned on the annular support surface so as to form an overlapping portion to close at least partially the opening of the annular member. A welding joint is formed in the overlapping portion between the panel and the annular support surface to integrally fix the panel to the annular support surface. |
| US08875932B1 |
Front load refuse container and lift pocket assembly
A front load refuse container made according to this invention has its four walls integrally formed out of a single piece of sheet metal. To form the walls, the single sheet is welded along a single vertical seam to form a circular-shaped ring. The circular-shaped ring is subjected to a swaging process that produces a rectangular-shaped ring with rounded corners. |
| US08875928B1 |
Soda carbonation retaining apparatus
A soda carbonation retaining apparatus includes a container has a bottom wall, a top wall and a perimeter wall. The bottom wall has an access aperture extending therethrough. The top wall has a nozzle fluidly coupled thereto. A plurality of tracks is mounted to an inner surface of the perimeter wall. A panel is mounted within the housing and is mounted on the tracks. A cover is positionable in a closed position closing the nozzle or in an open position exposing the nozzle. A flexible bag is mounted within the housing and has an upper edge attached to the perimeter wall adjacent to the top wall. The flexible bag is fillable with a carbonated fluid and a volume of the flexible bag is reduced as the panel is moved upwardly toward the nozzle to reduce an amount of free space in the flexible bag. |
| US08875927B2 |
Container with self-venting features
A container includes a lid adapted to seal with a base. The lid and base rims each have vertical segments that mate upon sealing the container. The mating segments form a vertical seal zone. The vertical seal zone has a width extending across the rim surfaces. One or more vent channels are disposed on either or both rims. Each vent channel extends partially into the vertical seal zone. When pressure inside the container reaches a critical level, the lid rises and reduces the width of the seal zone, creating a vent point. Pressurized vapors traveling through the vent channel overcome rim-engaging forces at the vent point and pass through the engaged rims. Once pressure is purged, the lid descends and resumes its sealed arrangement with the base. The rims may respectively include horizontally oriented segments that engage each other to from a horizontal seal zone. |
| US08875925B2 |
Teacup cover
Disclosed herein is an improved cup cover that includes a base having a slit extending from an edge, and a protrusion extending from the base. The slit can be configured to receive a string associated with a teabag. The protrusion can be divided into a first half and a second half by a through-slot which may be configured to receive the string associated with the teabag. The first half and the second half of the protrusion may be configured to releaseably secure the string associated with the teabag therebetween. |
| US08875924B2 |
Box with foldable sidewalls and locking mechanisms with overload protection
A foldable box includes a floor and two longitudinal and transverse side exterior walls each lying opposite in pairs and foldable relative to the floor, each longitudinal side exterior walls—including a protrusion at a transverse side end extending toward the transverse side exterior walls when upfolded, limiting foldability of the transverse side exterior walls to the outside. Each transverse side exterior wall including a locking mechanism at the outside of the transverse side exterior wall, including when upfolded, a snap-in element movable in a vertical direction relative to the floor surface, latchable with the protrusion. The protrusion and/or the snap-in element includes contact surfaces, inclined relative to the vertical direction when upfolded wherein the locking mechanism opens against a spring pretensioning when exceeding a predetermined inward force acting upon the transverse side exterior wall. |
| US08875919B2 |
Stopper for closing a dispensing opening of a container
The present invention pertains to a stopper (1) for closing a dispensing opening (70) of a container (8). The stopper comprises a body element (2) for closing the dispensing opening, the body element having a top face (20) and a bottom face (22), the bottom face being directed towards the inside of the container; a moving element (3) which is situated at the top face (20) of the body element (2), wherein the moving element is movable relative to the body element from an initial position in which the moving element does not extend beyond the outer extension of the top face (20) in the plane of the top face of the body element, to an opening position in which the moving element is moved relative to the body element to extend at least partly beyond the outer extension of the top face (20) of the body element (2) in the plane of the body element, wherein the moving element provides, in the opening position, a gripping surface (32) for a user to remove the body element from the dispensing opening. The moving element substantially covers the entire top face of the body element in the initial position. |
| US08875917B2 |
Closure cap with spring element for a container
The present invention pertains to a closure cap for a container, the closure cap including a top part connectable to a container body via a hinge, the top part being pivotable about the hinge. The top part further includes a sealing skirt to sealingly engage with an opening of the container body, and the top part includes a desiccant chamber for accommodating a desiccant. A spring element for pre-tensioning products received in the container body, the spring element extending from the top part in a single loop, is also an element of the container. |
| US08875916B2 |
Package for laundry scent additive
A package for a particulate laundry scent additive. |
| US08875915B2 |
Container having a programmable combination locking cap
Disclosed is a bottle having a programmable combination locking cap. The locking cap has an upper cap, which locks onto a canister. The locking cap has various layers of rings so that the rings can be aligned in a combination code in order to remove the locked cap from the canister. |
| US08875913B2 |
Lubricious, sealed, airless baby bottle
An airless baby bottle includes: a) an elongated shaft having an open top and an open bottom and having a constant internal cross-section, and having attachment means for securing a nipple piece fastening collar thereto; b) a nipple piece fastening collar; c) a nipple piece having a main body with an outer rim and having a nipple with at least one liquid-release orifice and nipple having a plurality of accordion segments so as to create a rest short nipple position and so as to permit a stressed elongated nipple position when a baby sucks on it; d) a piston to sealably and moveably fit within the elongated shaft, the piston having external sides with a peripheral upper blade and a peripheral lower blade, each of said peripheral upper blade peripheral lower blade having a plurality of peripheral ridges running perpendicular to the elongated shaft elongation direction. |
| US08875911B2 |
Drilling rig mast lift systems and methods
Systems and methods for rig assembly and for erecting a mast of a rig and such systems with roller apparatus to facilitate movement of a mast section from a mover. In a first embodiment, the method includes erecting a rig mast section on a substructure, the substructure including a first substructure box spaced-apart from a second substructure box, the first substructure box comprising a first upper box above a first lower box and the second substructure box comprising a second upper box above a second lower box. |
| US08875910B2 |
Assembly kit for building a rack
An assembly kit for building a rack includes a plurality of longitudinal members to be arranged vertically, a plurality of cross members to be arranged horizontally, a plurality of node elements that connect the longitudinal members and cross members to each other, and a plurality of rails that accommodate rack bottoms, drawers, and the like. The longitudinal members are provided with holes used to hook in the rails on first lateral surfaces of the longitudinal members facing each other, wherein the holes are T-shaped and include breakouts adjacent to the first lateral surfaces. The rails are longer than the open distance of a front longitudinal member from a rear longitudinal member by the depth of the breakouts and are provided with U-shaped folded edges. The width of the vertically extending section of the T-shaped hole corresponds to the length of the free leg of the U-shaped folded edge. |
| US08875904B2 |
Circular filtering disc and filter device having the same
A circular filtering disc and a filter device having the filtering disc. The filtering disc includes a circular partition plate having an inner hub and an outer rim, with radial inlet holes formed in the outer rim and introducing water to the partition plate, and a vertical outlet hole formed in the center of the inner hub and discharging pure water; and a filter fabric placed on or below the partition plate, wherein water supplied to the filtering disc passes through the filter fabric and becomes concentrated at the vertical outlet hole, and is discharged from the filtering disc through the vertical outlet hole. In the filter device, raw water is supplied through the circumferential edges of the circular filtering discs stacked on top of one another in the filter device and is filtered prior to being discharged from the filter device through the center of the filtering discs. |
| US08875902B2 |
Fastener sorting device and processing thereof
A machine for sorting fasteners that have a shaft with a head attached thereto from fasteners that only have a shaft. The machine can have a plurality of rollers that are rotatably attached to a frame, the plurality of rollers having a gap between each other and generally aligned parallel to each other. In addition, the plurality of rollers can be oriented at an angle relative to horizontal. The gap between each roller is dimensioned such that the shaft of a fastener can fit or fall therethrough and yet prevent the head of the fastener to fit or fall therethrough. The plurality of rollers can have an elevated end and an exit end, the exit end having an opening proximate thereto and dimensioned for the head of the fastener to fit therethrough. |
| US08875898B2 |
Method for the froth flotation of coal
The present invention relates to the beneficiation of coal by the process of froth flotation and specifically relates to a process for the froth flotation of coal using a collector consisting essentially of a fatty acid monoester of a polyol, a fatty acid diester of a polyol, or a mixture thereof. |
| US08875893B2 |
Medical containers for use in blood collection and processing and medical systems, methods and apparatus for use in blood collection and processing
Medical containers for use in blood collection and processing and medical systems, methods and apparatus for use in blood collection and processing are described. An example medical container to be used during blood collection and processing, the medical container includes an elongated body defining a compartment and a base coupled at a first end of the elongated body. Additionally, the medical container includes a divider extending through the compartment to separate the compartment into a first subcompartment and a second subcompartment, the divider comprising a first material and the elongated body comprising a second material, the first material being relatively more rigid than the second material, the first subcompartment and the subsecond compartment each to accommodate blood pack components. |
| US08875890B2 |
Mouth blown air-sealed body with automatically opened air inlet
A postal envelope bag having a cushioning function includes two outer films, two inner films, heat resisting materials, transverse heat-sealing lines, longitudinal heat-sealing lines, air columns, neck heat-sealing lines, an air filling passage, air inlets and heat-sealing blocks, where air entering the air-filling port expands the air filling passage, the two outer films are pulled apart outward in a longitudinal direction and are contracted in a transverse direction; the heat-sealing blocks thrusts the two inner films, the portions of the two inner films coated with the heat resisting material are pulled apart outward in the longitudinal direction, and third segments drives the two inner films to open the air inlet as the two outer films are pulled apart outward in the longitudinal direction; after entering the air column, the air presses the second sides of the two inner films to close the air column. |
| US08875885B2 |
Package for shipping hazardous material bottles and method of forming same
A package for insertion into a box to form a shipping container for hazardous material bottles, comprises a honeycomb insert having a plurality of side panels and a bottom panel, the side panels and bottom panel having channels formed therein, the insert dimensioned for placement within the box, honeycomb partition members, each member having two panels, each panel of each partition member dimensioned for insertion within a channel of a side panel and a channel of the bottom panel of the insert, the panels adjacent to each other forming a space dimensioned to receive a hazardous material bottle, and a top pad dimensioned for placement over the partition members. A shipping container comprises a box and such a package. |
| US08875884B1 |
Hand tool rack
A hand tool rack includes a first body and a second body. The first body has two rectangular extensions and a connection member which is located between the two extensions. Each extension has a first connection portion. The connection member has a second connection portion. Multiple first positioning portions are located between the two first connection portions. The second body has two first holes defined through two first portions on two ends thereof. The second body has a second hole defied through a second portion at the middle portion thereof. When the first connection portions extend through the first holes, the first connection portions contact respective tops of the first portions. The second connection portion extends through the second hole and contacts the second portion. The first positioning portions are connected with the second positioning portions of the second body. |
| US08875883B2 |
Tiered tool holder
A tool holder is described. The tool holder can include a main panel and a plurality of sleeves extending from a front side of the main panel. The plurality of sleeves can include a first sleeve component forming peaks and valleys, a second sleeve component coupled to the first sleeve component, and a third sleeve component forming a plurality of outer peaks and outer valleys coupled to the second sleeve component. At least one primary opening can be formed between the main panel and the first sleeve component between adjacent valleys. At least one secondary opening can be formed between the second sleeve component and the first sleeve component between adjacent peaks. At least one tertiary opening can be formed between the second sleeve component and the third sleeve component between adjacent outer valleys. A tool can be received through each opening and stored in the tool holder. |
| US08875879B2 |
Case for electronic tablet
A case incorporates a built-in stand for an electronic device, such as an electronic tablet computer, which the case houses. The case protects the electronic device and allows a user to view and access the device without removing it from the case. The built-in stand is adjustable and allows for multiple viewing angles. |
| US08875876B2 |
Stackable packages for bedding products
A stackable package for bedding includes a flexible outer container having an upper end and a lower end, a bottom panel extending along the lower end of the flexible container and side panels extending upwardly from the bottom panel toward the upper end of the flexible container for defining an open end of the flexible outer container. The stackable package includes an insert disposed inside the flexible outer container for reinforcing the bottom and side panels of the flexible outer container, and bedding disposed inside the insert. The side panels of the flexible outer container have upper ends that are joined together for sealing the bedding inside the flexible outer container. At least one of the panels has at least one vent opening formed therein for allowing air to circulate through the package after the package has been sealed. |
| US08875875B2 |
Sealable and stackable packages for bedding products
A stackable package for bedding includes a flexible outer container having an upper end and a lower end, a bottom panel extending along the lower end of the flexible container and side panels extending upwardly from the bottom panel toward the upper end of the flexible container for defining an open end of the flexible outer container. The stackable package includes an insert disposed inside the flexible outer container for reinforcing the bottom and side panels of the flexible outer container, and bedding disposed inside the insert. The side panels of the flexible outer container have upper ends that are joined together for hermetically sealing the bedding inside the flexible outer container. |
| US08875874B2 |
Multi-compartment mixing container and method of filling
A mixing container including an outer vessel, one or more inner vessels, and a lid. The outer vessel has a bottom, an open mouth and a peripheral sidewall between the open mouth and the bottom. The one or more inner vessels each have an end, an open mouth and a peripheral sidewall between the end and the open mouth. The lid is configured to be removably coupled to the open mouth of the outer vessel and the lid is characterized as having an outer surface and an inner surface coupled to the ends of the one or more inner vessels. A seal is formed between the open mouth of each one of the one or more inner vessels and the bottom of the outer vessel when the lid is coupled to the open mouth of the outer vessel. |
| US08875872B2 |
Retail display package with foldable stand
A display package includes a wrap portion, and first and second stand portions. The wrap portion defines a front panel, a rear panel opposite the front panel, and a bottom panel extending between the front and rear panels. The front, rear, and bottom panels form a cavity therebetween for receiving an article for display. The first and second stand portions each extend from the rear panel opposite one another. At least a portion of the first stand portion and a portion of the second stand portion are placed directly adjacent and are coupled to one another to collectively form a two-ply fin capable of being folded flat over the rear panel or folded out to extend away from the rear panel to act as a stand for supporting the display package with a substantially upright position on a support surface. |
| US08875865B2 |
Linear dispensing system with universal escapement
A linear dispensing system is provided that includes a plurality of channels, a pair of parallel rails, a plurality of carriers and a plurality of linear motor modules. The channels are configured to hold inventory products at an orientation. The pair of parallel rails is disposed at a bottom portion of the channels. The carriers are slidably disposed on the rails and have a conveyor unit configured to pick the inventory product from the channels while substantially maintaining the same geometric orientation as in the channel. The linear motor modules are disposed between the parallel rails and aligned end to end. The linear motor modules are coupled with the carriers and configured to pass the carriers to an adjacent linear motor module. Each carrier delivers a plurality of selected products of varying shapes to a universal escapement structure where the products are labeled, imaged, verified and dispensed. |
| US08875862B2 |
Ratchet hub
A ratchet hub using a magnetic force for restoration as disclosed has a freewheel unit and a ratchet ring thereof forming a unidirectional ratchet mechanism and a magnetic assembly using a magnetically repulsive force to normally make the freewheel unit and ratchet ring engage mutually and allow force transmission therebetween. Once a force disengaging the freewheel unit from the ratchet ring surpasses the magnetically repulsive force, the ratchet ring is pushed away from the freewheel unit. When the force disengaging the freewheel unit from the ratchet ring disappears, the magnetically repulsive force automatically and promptly returns the ratchet ring to engage with the freewheel unit again. |
| US08875860B2 |
Torque limiter
A torque limiter includes a shaft member, and a cylindrical member which is fitted rotatably on the shaft member. When the cylindrical member is rotated relative to the shaft member in such a state that the cap member is not screwed in the threaded hole and in such a state that the oil release passage is not opened to the outside, the other end portion of the oil release passage circumferentially moves within the circumferentially extended groove while being spaced apart from the circumferentially extended groove. |
| US08875859B2 |
Hydraulic clutch and transmission device provided with the same
A hydraulic clutch including a clutch drum with an outer cylinder fitted with a plurality of clutch plates and a side wall; a clutch piston that defines together with the clutch drum an engagement oil chamber, and moves in an axial direction to press the clutch plates by hydraulic pressure supplied to the engagement oil chamber; and a cancel plate that defines together with the clutch piston a cancel oil chamber that cancels centrifugal hydraulic pressure. The side wall of the clutch drum is formed with a first oil passage that radially extends and is in communication with the engagement oil chamber, and a second oil passage that radially extends and is in communication with the cancel oil chamber. One of the first and second oil passages is at least partially included in a range of an axial width of the other of the first and second oil passages. |
| US08875855B2 |
Wheeled luggage case
This invention relates generally to wheeled luggage, and particularly to wheeled luggage with one or more controlled wheels for improved tracking and steering control of the luggage case when it is in motion. The invention provides a support structure for a luggage case comprising a plurality of spaced parallel wheels and at least one biasing element that is operable up to a certain torque to releasably restrain the angular movement at least one wheel to at least one angular position with respect to the base. Conveniently, the at least one angular position corresponds to a desired direction of travel. |
| US08875853B2 |
Hydraulic brake device
A hydraulic brake device includes a main body, a brake lever, a hydraulic rod, a connecting rod, a sleeve member and an elastic member. The elastic member has an assembling portion, a driving portion and a deformation portion. When a user actuates the brake lever suddenly and forcefully, the driving portion of the elastic member moves toward the hydraulic room; a pressure of hydraulic oil pushes the driving portion so as to indirectly force the deformation portion to deform and bend, so that the deformation portion and the driving portion slightly move toward the assembling portion; thereby, a volume of hydraulic oil is smoothly pushed into a brake caliper through a hydraulic pipeline, such that the user brakes a bicycle stably, smoothly and safely. |
| US08875850B2 |
Disc brake assembly and method of making same
A disc brake having one or multiple axially movable rotor discs with annular friction surfaces disposed axially between an annular piston in an annular pressure cavity formed in a housing and annular reaction plate attached to the piston. Friction pads are provided on the reaction plate and also on an axially movable annular reaction disc disposed between the rotor discs. A positioning plate is disposed between the piston and rotor discs and has axially movable poppets thereon, each with a friction pad for contacting the adjacent rotor disc. Individual springs on each poppet bias the poppet pads, rotor discs and friction pads axially together to provide a desired initial braking torque. Upon fluid pressure applied in the piston cavity, the housing moves the positioning plate to move the poppets to release braking torque. |
| US08875848B2 |
Method and device for displacing and storing brake fluid for a hydraulic brake system of a vehicle
In a method for displacing and storing brake fluid for a hydraulic brake system of a vehicle which brake system has at least one hydraulic accumulator, at least one brake booster and at least one brake circuit, the brake booster is configured in such a manner, that even without an action of the driver, actuation of the brake booster allows a volume of brake fluid to be automatically displaced. The brake fluid is displaced into the hydraulic accumulator and stored, by automatic actuation of the brake booster, and at least a portion of the stored brake fluid is emptied by the hydraulic accumulator into the brake circuit as a function of the operating state of the brake system. |
| US08875844B2 |
Lifting device for storing a personal vehicle on a vehicle dolly thereon
A lifting device has a lifting track mounted on a wall and a carriage with a lift frame movable along the track. A dolly with wheels at opposing ends is arranged to support various cargo thereon including personal vehicles such as motorcycles or snowmobiles or other comparably sized objects. The lift frame of the carriage has lift forks arranged to be received a wheel track of the dolly which receives wheels of a personal vehicle thereon. Guide flanges alongside the lifting track are engaged by upper and lower guide followers to prevent binding of the lift frame along the lifting track. The dolly includes longitudinal rails mountable at different lateral distances to accommodate different vehicle wheel configurations. |
| US08875837B2 |
Vibration-dampening musical performance riser
A musical performance riser having an interior area and a rigid block made from multiple layers of foam material of varying densities incorporated within that area. The block further includes a number of holes or chambers to trap sound. When the riser is used in performances, sound waves created by the object placed on the riser are reduced or dissipated as they travel down the block through the foam layers and chambers with the result being reduced acoustic interference and a better listening experience for the audience. The riser also includes specialized removable casters supported against rubber isolation feet that further serve to reduce the unwanted interference. |
| US08875836B2 |
Tail pipe for muffler of motor vehicle
A tail pipe for a muffler is provided that can improve aesthetical appearance of a rear surface of a vehicle, while preventing noise that is generated by air currents. The tail pipe may be a hollow tail pipe which is disposed at a rear end of a rear exhaust pipe connected to a rear end of the muffler, and which functions as an outlet adapted to discharge exhaust gas. The tail pipe may include: at least one panel forming an interior surface and an exterior surface opposite to the interior surface; a space surrounded by the panel and formed between the interior surface and the exterior surface; a receiving hole formed at the interior surface; and a barrier mounted in the space and partially protruded through the receiving hole, where the barrier collects soot from the exhaust gas. |
| US08875824B1 |
Radiator grill
A radiator grill is mounted on a work vehicle and includes a frame and a plate member. The plate member is supported by the frame and having a plurality of through-holes aligned in a first direction and a second direction orthogonal to the first direction. Each of the through-holes has a pair of circular parts aligned in the first direction, and an interconnecting part having a width in the second direction that is smaller than diameters of the circular parts, the interconnecting part interconnecting the circular parts. The through-holes are disposed alternately so that one of the circular parts of one of two adjacent ones of the through-holes adjacent to each other in the second direction is aligned with the interconnecting part of the other of the two adjacent ones of the through-holes in the second direction. |
| US08875822B2 |
Apparatus and method for pumping air for exhaust oxidation in an internal combustion engine
An apparatus and method for producing air flow in a vehicle that uses a cooling fan for an engine of the vehicle. The cooling fan has plurality of blades, which define an outer perimeter of the fan. The apparatus also includes a housing surrounding at least a portion of the outer perimeter of the fan and a plurality of vanes between the housing and the fan. The vanes are revolved around the outer perimeter of the fan to direct air into the housing. |
| US08875817B2 |
Hitch assembly for articulated mobile machine
A hitch assembly is disclosed for use with an articulated mobile machine. The hitch assembly may have a yoke portion, a tube portion, a driveshaft, and a hitch carrier to rotationally support the driveshaft inside the tube portion and having a plurality of first holes. The hitch assembly may further have a plurality of fasteners to connect the hitch carrier to the tube portion via the plurality of first holes, and a thrust collar to threadingly engage a periphery of the hitch carrier and having a plurality of second holes. The hitch assembly may additionally have a locking plate with at least one pin to engage at least one of the plurality of second holes, and a plurality of third holes to receive at least some of the plurality of fasteners. The number of the plurality of second holes is greater than the number of the plurality of first holes. |
| US08875813B2 |
Atomic layer deposition nanocoatings on cutting tool powder materials
A sintered body for cutting tools that includes hard particle phase comprising a plurality of hard particles, wherein at least a portion of the hard phase particles comprise a coating deposited by atomic layer deposition disposed thereon; and a binder phase is disclosed. The hard particles that may be included in the sintered bodies may include tungsten carbide, diamond, and boron nitride particles. |
| US08875812B2 |
Polycrystalline diamond cutting element and method of using same
A polycrystalline diamond cutting (PDC) element of a drill bit of a downhole drilling tool is provided. The PDC element having a substrate, a diamond table and at least one pattern. The diamond table has an initial cutting edge along a periphery thereof. The pattern integrally formed within the diamond table. The pattern(s) defining at least one discontinuity about the diamond table that, in operation, selectively breaks away upon impact to create new cutting edges in the diamond table whereby a sharp cutting edge is continuously exposed to a material being cut. |
| US08875811B1 |
Joint with check valve for a boring apparatus
A check valve for a drill string fluid delivery system. The fluid delivery system allows for drilling mud to travel from a source up the drill string, through the drill string, through a downhole tool assembly, to a port located at a surface of a boring tool. The check valve rests in a socket within the downhole tool assembly, with a forward face extending into a gallery within the bit. When the ambient pressure within the fluid delivery system exceeds the ambient pressure in the borehole, mud flows through the system to the ports and into the borehole. When the ambient pressure within the borehole exceeds the ambient pressure in the fluid delivery system, the pressure is applied to the forward face, causing the check valve to close, preventing contaminants from the borehole from entering the fluid delivery system. |
| US08875810B2 |
Hole enlargement drilling device and methods for using same
A bottomhole assembly (BHA) coupled to a drill string includes one or more controllers, and a hole enlargement device that selectively enlarges the diameter of the wellbore formed by the drill bit. The hole enlargement device includes an actuation unit that may move extendable cutting elements o the hole enlargement device between a radially extended position and a radially retracted position. The actuation unit may be responsive to a signal that is transmitted from a downhole and/or a surface location. The hole enlargement device may also include one or more position sensors that transmit a position signal indicative of a radial position of the cutting elements. In an illustrative operating mode, one or more operating parameters of the hole enlargement device may be adjusted based on one or more measured parameters. This adjustment may be done in a closed-loop or automated fashion and/or by human personnel. |
| US08875806B2 |
Formation dip geo-steering method
A method of drilling a subterranean well from a surface location. The method comprises estimating a target formation depth, estimating a target formation dip angle and calculating a target line that creates a top and bottom of the target formation that forms a first projection window. The method further includes drilling within the first projection window, transmitting information from the subterranean well and projecting a target deviation window. The method may further comprise ceasing the drilling of the well and performing a well survey so that well survey information is generated. The method may then include estimating a formation dip angle with the well survey information and rig surface equipment monitoring data, calculating a target line that creates a revised top and bottom of the target formation that forms a second projection window, and drilling within the second projection window. |
| US08875804B2 |
Screwdriving tool having a driving tool with a removable contact trip assembly
A screwdriving tool that includes a driving tool (driver), a sensor, a sensor target and a contact trip assembly that is coupled to the driving tool and has a nose element. The driver has a housing, a motor and an output member that is driven by the motor. One of the nose element and the output member is axially movable and biased by a spring into an extended position. The sensor and sensor target are configured to cooperate to permit the sensor to provide a sensor signal that is indicative of movement of the one of the nose element and the output member. The motor is controllable in a first operational mode and at least one rotational direction based in part on the sensor signal. |
| US08875801B2 |
Device for setting the leakage rate for a leakage at a gap-like opening
The present invention relates to a measure for minimizing an undesired passage of fluid from a first sector (1) to a second sector (2) separated by a non-fluid-tight separation (3), wherein a first pressure (P1-1) prevails in the first sector (1) and a lower second pressure (P2-1) than the first pressure (P1-1) prevails in the second sector (2). An intermediate chamber (4) which separates the two sectors (1, 2) from one another is arranged at the separation (3). A conveyor mechanism (5) is further provided which is designed to convey fluid from the intermediate chamber (4) to the first sector (1) in order to generate a lower pressure in the intermediate chamber (4) than the first pressure (P1-1) prevailing in the first sector (1), wherein the pressure (P4-1) generated in the intermediate chamber (4) is just as high or higher than the second pressure (P2-1) prevailing in the second sector (2). |
| US08875796B2 |
Well tool assemblies with quick connectors and shock mitigating capabilities
A method can include interconnecting a well tool in a well tool assembly with a shock mitigating connection, the interconnecting being performed without threading, and positioning the well tool assembly in a wellbore. A well perforating assembly can include at least two perforating devices, a detonation train extending through the perforating devices, and a shock absorber positioned between the perforating devices. A method of assembling a perforating assembly can include, prior to installing the perforating assembly in a wellbore, pushing one perforating device connector into another perforating device connector without threading the connectors together, thereby: a) preventing disconnection of the connectors and b) making a connection in a detonation train. A well system can include a perforating assembly including multiple perforating guns and multiple shock absorbers. Each shock absorber may be interconnected between at least two of the perforating guns. |
| US08875793B2 |
Connecting device for kill/choke lines between a riser and a floating drilling vessel
A connector device for kill- and choke lines between a riser and a floating drilling platform includes a slip joint on top of the riser including an outer barrel, a kill- and choke manifold arranged on the platform and provided with flexible kill- and choke hoses to the slip joint's outer barrel, and wherein the slip joint's outer barrel is provided with a horizontally directed kill- and choke-manifold. |
| US08875791B2 |
Segmented fiber optic coiled tubing assembly
A fiber optic coiled tubing assembly of multiple segments and coupling mechanism therefor. The assembly may be assembled from multiple coiled tubing segments which are pre-loaded with fiber optic line. Thus, the coupling mechanism may be employed for physical coupling of the coiled tubing segments as well as communicative coupling of the lines of the separate segments to one another. As such, pumping of a single fiber optic line through the coiled tubing assembly following coupling of the segments may be avoided. This may be of particular benefit for offshore operations where the joining of multiple coiled tubing segments is likely due to crane load capacity limitations and where such pumping may consume vast amounts of time. |
| US08875788B2 |
Low temperature inductive heating of subsurface formations
Electrical current flow is induced in a ferromagnetic conductor providing time-varying electrical current at a first frequency to an electrical conductor located in a formation. The ferromagnetic conductor at least partially surrounds and at least partially extends lengthwise around the electrical conductor. The ferromagnetic conductor resistively heats up to a first temperature of at most about 300° C. Water in the formation is vaporized with heat at the first temperature. Subsequently, time-varying electrical current at a second frequency is provided to the elongated electrical conductor to induce electrical current flow at the second frequency such that the ferromagnetic conductor resistively heats up to a second temperature above about 300° C. Heat transfers from the ferromagnetic conductor at the second temperature to at least a part of the formation to mobilize at least some hydrocarbons in the part of the formation. |
| US08875787B2 |
Electromechanical assembly for connecting a series of guns used in the perforation of wells
An electromechanical assembly for a series of guns used in the perforation of petroleum producing wells. Each gun is a cylindrical housing having a charge-carrier loaded with explosive charges in contact with a detonating cord which contacts an electronically activated detonator. The guns are joined by intermediary joints and terminate in a bottom sub on its lower end and a firing head at its upper end. The charge-carrier of each gun is detonated, beginning with the bottommost gun. Insulating end plates are on the lower and upper ends of the carrier for centering and anchoring the charge-carriers. An electrical wire runs from a retractable contact pin in each carrier, through the intermediary joint which has a changeover switch sensitive to the high pressures produced by the explosion in the carrier located in the gun immediately beneath it, rupturing a mechanical fuse and allowing the switch to close. |
| US08875786B2 |
Methods and compositions for sand control in injection wells
Methods of preventing or reducing migration of particulates in injection wells. Some embodiments of the present invention describe methods of introducing a tackifying treatment fluid through an injection well and into a portion of a subterranean formation surrounding the injection well, wherein the tackifying treatment fluid comprises a base fluid and a tackifying agent. Other embodiments include a step of introducing a resin treatment fluid to the injection well before the tackifying treatment fluid. |
| US08875785B2 |
System and method for correcting downhole speed
A method of correcting a downhole speed of a tool string moving in a wellbore. In some implementations, the method includes obtaining a downhole tool speed with an accelerometer, moving the tool string past at least two casing collars, calculating the average tool speed over the interval between collars, and comparing the downhole tool speed as calculated using the data from the accelerometer to the average tool speed calculated based on the time and the interval between the casing collars, determining a correction factor, and determining a corrected downhole tool speed. A system includes a casing collar locator, an accelerometer, and a processor adapted to compare the downhole tool speed calculated using data from the accelerometer to the average downhole tool speed calculated using the time and casing collar location, determine a correction factor and determine a corrected downhole tool speed. |
| US08875784B2 |
Economical construction of well screens
A well screen for use in a subterranean well can include a loose filter media, a sandstone, a square weave mesh material, a foam, and/or a nonmetal mesh material. A method of installing a well screen in a subterranean well can include dispersing a material in a filter media of the well screen, after the well screen has been installed in the well, thereby permitting a fluid to flow through the filter media. A method of constructing a well screen can include positioning a loose filter media in an annular space between a base pipe and a shroud, so that the filter media filters fluid which flows through a wall of the base pipe. |
| US08875783B2 |
Expansion system for an expandable tubular assembly
The present invention generally relates to an apparatus and method for expanding an expandable tubular assembly in a borehole. In one aspect, a system for expanding a tubular having an anchor portion in a borehole is provided. The system includes a running tool configured to position the tubular in the borehole. The running tool including a first expander configured to activate the anchor portion by expanding the tubular to a first diameter. The system further includes a second expander configured to expand the tubular to a second larger diameter, wherein the second expander is movable between a retracted position and an expanded position. In another aspect, a method of expanding a tubular having an anchor portion in a borehole is provided. |
| US08875780B2 |
Methods of forming enhanced-surface walls for use in apparatae for performing a process, enhanced-surface walls, and apparatae incorporating same
This invention relates generally to: (1) methods of forming enhanced-surface walls (20) for use in apparatae (e.g., heat transfer devices, fluid mixing devices, etc.) for performing a process, (2) to enhanced-surface walls per se, and (3) to various apparatae incorporating such enhanced-surface walls.The method improved method broadly comprises the steps of: providing a length of material (21) having opposite initial surfaces (22a, 22b), said material having a longitudinal centerline (x-x) positioned substantially midway between said initial surfaces, said material having an initial transverse dimension measured from said centerline to a point on either of said initial surfaces located farthest away from said centerline, each of said initial surfaces having a initial surface density, said surface density being defined as the number of characters on an surface per unit of projected surface area; impressing secondary patterns (23a, 23b) having secondary pattern surface densities onto each of said initial surfaces to distort said material and to increase the surface densities on each of said surfaces and to increase the trans-verse dimension of said material from said centerline to the farthest point of such distorted material; and impressing primary patterns (25a, 25b) having primary pattern surface densities onto each of such distorted surfaces to further distort said material and to further increase the surface densities on each of said surfaces; thereby to provide an enhanced-surface wall for use in an apparatus for performing a process. |
| US08875778B2 |
Geothermal adiabatic-isothermal heat sink exchange system
The present invention is a geothermal heat exchanger with a first exchanger, being a return loop inside a geothermal well. The first exchanger is provided for circulating a refrigerant for harvesting heat from the ground surrounding the geothermal well by conduction and convection. A second exchanger, also placed within the geothermal well, is formed from material with high heat transfer coefficient, and also adapted to harvest heat from the ground surrounding the geothermal well by conduction and convection. The first exchanger is completely encased within the second exchanger, and the second exchanger is placed in direct contact with ground surrounding the geothermal well. The outer walls of the first exchanger abut inner walls of the second exchanger along an entire length of the second exchanger. The first exchanger is a copper pipe, and the second exchanger is a housing made of non-ferrous metal with a high thermal diffusivity. |
| US08875774B1 |
Protective apparatus for windows and construction areas
The invention relates to the general field of construction, and more specifically, the protection of construction work sites. At least two vertical poles are positioned between two surfaces such as ceilings and floors. A center frame with one or more rotatable segments may be mounted between the vertical poles and secured to a window sill. Construction materials may be passed over the rotatable segment and through the center frame with minimal or no damage to the window sill or surrounding structure. The vertical poles may be used with a sheet material to form a protective tunnel. Construction materials may be passed through the tunnel with minimal or no damage to the surrounding environment. Debris left by the construction materials is captured within the tunnel and can be safely and conveniently removed. |
| US08875772B1 |
Access door unit and method of installing door unit
An access door unit includes a door, a doorway structure, and elements for pivotally attaching the door to the doorway structure. The doorway structure has an outer perimeter frame and a base affixed thereon. The base has support members extending in transverse relation to and outwardly in opposite directions from the outer perimeter frame and adapted to rest on a generally level support surface such that the outer perimeter frame extends upright from the base enabling the doorway structure to assume a free-standing, self-supporting orientation on the support surface. The outer perimeter frame of the doorway structure defines a passage large enough to fit the door and permit entry or exit through the passage when the door is opened. |
| US08875768B2 |
Tape application machine for applying an electrically non-conductive tape to a battery cell
A tape application machine and method are provided. The machine includes a nest device that moves along a linear rail from a first position to a second position. The nest device holds a battery cell therein. The machine further includes a tape application device that dispenses electrically non-conductive tape and applies a first portion of the tape on a first side of the battery cell. The machine further includes a tape bending device that conforms a second portion of the electrically non-conductive tape onto a second side of the battery cell. The machine further includes a tape compression device that compresses the tape on the first and second sides of the battery cell. |
| US08875767B2 |
Apparatus for coating workpieces
The invention relates to an apparatus (1) for coating workpieces (2) which are preferably made at least in sections of wood, wood materials, plastic or the like, comprising a feed apparatus (10) for feeding a coating material, an activation region (20) for activating the fed coating material (2), and a pressing apparatus (40) for pressing the activated coating material (2) onto a workpiece (3). The apparatus according to the invention is characterised in that at least the activation region (20) with the pressing apparatus (40) and the workpiece (3) can be moved and/or rotated relative to one another in a plane of movement perpendicular to the coating plane in the course of the coating process. |
| US08875763B2 |
Marking offering better visibility and marking method
Article (1) having at least one visible surface (11), this surface comprising on at least part of it a pattern (2) contrasting with the surface of the article, this pattern (2) comprising a plurality of tufts (21) distributed over the entire said pattern, each tuft (21) having an average cross section between 0.003 and 0.06 mm2. Also disclosed is a moulding process for forming a high-contrast pattern on a surface of an article that can be moulded in a mould, this process consisting in producing, at the position of the pattern on the surface of the mould, a plurality of cavities of average cross section between 0.003 and 0.06 mm2. |
| US08875761B2 |
System and method of securing a pneumatic tire to a rim
In accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure an inner tube comprises an encasing configured to hold air. The encasing comprises a reinforcing structure configured such that, as the encasing is inflated, an overall major diameter of the inner tube is reduced. The inner tube also comprises an inflation valve coupled to the encasing and configured to allow inflation of the encasing. Further, the inner tube comprises a pressure valve coupled to the encasing. The pressure valve is configured to be biased closed and allow air to leave the encasing when a differential pressure between inside of the encasing and outside of the encasing reaches a threshold pressure level. In the same or alternative embodiments, the encasing also comprises a reinforcing structure configured such that, as the encasing is inflated, an overall major diameter of inner tube is reduced. |
| US08875749B2 |
Method for the preparation of samples
A method for the preparation of samples by means of a dosage-dispensing device, a weighing system with a load receiver, a processor unit, a memory unit, and an exchangeable dosage-dispensing unit. A target container is set on the load receiver. The dosage-dispensing unit and/or the target container includes electrically insulating material. The dosage-dispensing unit has the capability to change positions relative to the load receiver. While the dosage-dispensing unit is in a first position and a target container is on the load receiver, a starting weight value is determined, the dosage-dispensing unit is brought into a second position, a dosage-dispensing cycle delivers a dosage material in a predefined amount from the dosage-dispensing unit into the target container by means of the processor unit, the dosage-dispensing unit is brought into the first position, and while the dosage-dispensing unit is at rest in the first position, an ending weight value is determined. |
| US08875748B2 |
Device for filling a filter, and method therefor
An apparatus for the filling of a medical filter has at least one first space and one second space which are semipermeably separated by one or more membranes, with the spaces each having at least one inflow and outflow. The apparatus includes a detection unit having a first element and a second element, with a liquid discharge from at least one of the first and second spaces being detectable by the first element, and the state of the filling of the filter being determinable by the second element with reference to the detected liquid discharge. A method of filling a medical filter employs the apparatus. |
| US08875743B2 |
Hanger and method for routing a hot melt hose
A hanger and method for routing a hot melt hose adjacent to a structure includes a body having a through hole for receiving the hot melt hose. The through hole defines an inner surface adapted to support the hot melt hose without generally deforming the hot melt hose. The hanger also includes at least one of either a groove on the inner surface or a passage extending through the body for positioning the tie device. As such, the body is adapted to be supported by the tie device mounted to the structure. The hanger further spaces the hot melt hose from the adjacent structure. Thus, mechanical and thermal stresses may be minimized by supporting and spacing the hot melt hose from the adjacent structure without generally deforming the hot melt hose. |
| US08875741B2 |
Pressure damping device for brake system
There is provided a pressure damping device for a brake system. According to an embodiment of the present invention, an air damping space whose volume is changed in accordance with pressure is provided in an oil passage for connecting two hydraulic circuits, thereby reducing a pressure pulsation generated by a liquid pressure. |
| US08875737B2 |
High performance single control lever mixing cartridge
A high performance single control lever mixing cartridge, characterized in that said mixing cartridge comprises a holding body housing at least a bottom fixed plate and at least a top movable plate, with an indirect driving system including a driving member, said holding body including side windows allowing the top movable plate and driving member to exit said holding body, during its stroke on the end limits from the full hot water to the full cold water position. |
| US08875734B2 |
High-pressure connection
The invention relates to the simple and safe construction of a high-pressure connection (1) for transferring gaseous and/or liquid media, in particular for the refuelling of vehicles with hydrogen. According to the invention, the high-pressure connection (1) comprises a housing (2) with a media passage (P) and a leaktight piston (3) of which the front end is disposed in a sealing manner with respect to an annular seal. The seal (4) has a seal support (4a) in which is inserted a sealing insert (4b), the sealing support (4a) consisting of a harder plastics and the sealing insert (4b) consisting of a softer plastics. |
| US08875729B1 |
Sump pump apparatus and method
A sump pump assembly broadly comprises a square or rectangular-shaped basin, a first shelf fixedly position in a lower end of the basin, a lid for securing to an upper end of the basin, the lid having a transparent window for viewing a water level in the basin, a light mounted within the basin for assisting in viewing the water level, a first pump positioned on a floor of the basin, a second pump positioned on the first shelf, and an alarm for notifying a building owner when the first pump ceases to operate but prior to operation of the second pump. Alternative embodiments comprise a battery-powered third pump, a battery for powering the third pump, and a mount for mounting the battery inside the basin. |
| US08875723B2 |
Counter balanced cover for table top
A cover system includes a cover, a post, a table top, a counter weight assembly, and a base. The counter weight assembly has a cable extending through at least one pulley and connected to a counter weight. The counter weight assembly is connected to the post and the table top such that as the table top is raised, the post and cover are lowered. |
| US08875721B2 |
Dishwasher with closed loop condenser
A dishwasher with a closed loop condenser having a moist air conduit, a dry air conduit having a portion in overlying relationship with a portion of the moist air conduit, wherein the overlying portions of the moist air conduit and the dry air conduit form a heat exchanger, and a controllable gate for selectively introducing, exhausting, or redirecting air relative to the condenser. |
| US08875719B2 |
Device for combing and/or brushing eyelashes and/or eyebrows, and/or for applying makeup thereto
A device and method for combing eyelashes and/or eyebrows, and/or for applying makeup to eyelashes and/or eyebrows is disclosed. One exemplary device has a support and at least one row of projecting elements on the support. The row has a first group of the projecting elements and a projecting element outside the first group, the projecting element outside of the first group being spaced apart from the first group by a gap. The projecting elements can separate the eyelashes and/or eyebrows, while the gaps can group the eyelashes and/or eyebrows. |
| US08875716B2 |
Oral smokeless tobacco products and oral smokeless non-tobacco snuff products comprising carbamide or carbamide salts
Oral smokeless tobacco products and oral smokeless non-tobacco snuff products include carbamide or carbamide salt(s). The carbamide salt is chosen from the group including carbamide calcium sulphate [4(CH4N2O).CaSO4], carbamide magnesium sulphate [6(CH4N2O).MgSO4.2H2O] and carbamide sodium chloride [CH4N2O).NaCl.H2O]. Moreover, carbamide or carbamide salt(s) are used in the manufacturing of oral smokeless tobacco products or oral smokeless non-tobacco snuff products. |
| US08875712B2 |
System and method for occluding a reproductive body lumen
An occluding system is provided that can include a first occluding device (e.g., secondary occluder) and a second occluding device (e.g., primary occluder). Providing two devices can better promote effective occlusion within the body lumen and facilitate advantageous occlusion stages, such as initial and long-term occlusion stages. In various embodiments, the two occluding devices are in operative communication with one another, such that the second occluding device is adapted to couple with or slide along a tail portion of the first occluding device. |
| US08875709B2 |
Mask assembly
A mask assembly adapted for use with a positive airway pressure device, includes a mask frame, an elbow assembly provided to the frame, a cushion provided to the frame, a forehead support assembly, and a neck to connect the frame to the forehead support assembly, wherein the neck includes a pair of side walls having a streamlined design that is made to look sleek and reduce or minimize obtrusiveness. The pair of side walls may take the form of a single wall or more than two walls. The mask frame may include a recessed port structure including at least one port having access to an interior of the frame which at least in part with the cushion defines a breathing chamber in communication with a nasal passage of the patient in use. The mask frame may also include a channel to receive the cushion. The channel is formed by an outer wall and an inner wall and the channel includes an inner surface having a bead to engage with an outer surface of an edge of the cushion. The forehead support assembly includes a forehead support and a forehead pad coupled to the forehead support. The elbow assembly includes an elbow connectable to the mask frame. A cover is releasably connectable to the elbow. The cover includes a venting area including a plurality of vent holes. |
| US08875707B2 |
Trans-fill method and system
A trans-fill method and system comprising obtaining therapeutic gas from a therapeutic gas source, compressing the therapeutic gas from the therapeutic gas source in at least two stages to create an intermediate therapeutic gas stream and a high pressure therapeutic gas stream, supplying therapeutic gas to a patient from the intermediate therapeutic gas stream, and filling a cylinder with the therapeutic gas from the high pressure therapeutic gas stream substantially simultaneously with supplying therapeutic gas to the patient. |
| US08875705B2 |
Protocol and methods for pulsating drug delivery
An air delivery device (ADD) for applying fluid pressure pulses (FPP) to the mouth cavity of a patient at a predetermined frequency according to a protocol The ADD, comprises: a) an air blower for blowing air into a pressure chamber via a first opening (inlet); b) airflow occluding means (AOM) provided in fluid communication with said pressure chamber; said AOM located between said first opening and a second opening (outlet) of said pressure chamber; c) a patient mouthpiece or Face Mask, in fluid communication with said second opening (outlet); and, d) means for controlling AOM, adapted to interrupt and release said airflow at a predetermined frequency and pressure, thereby applying said FPPs to the mouth cavity of a patient according to a predetermined protocol during operation. |
| US08875704B2 |
Nasal administration
A delivery device for and method of delivering a powdered substance, in particular a triptan, such as sumatriptan, to the posterior region of a nasal cavity of a subject, in particular for the treatment of headaches, for example, cluster headaches and migraine, and neuropathic pain, the delivery device comprising: a nosepiece for insertion into a nasal cavity of a subject through which the powdered substance is delivered to the posterior region of the nasal cavity of the subject, in particular the upper posterior two thirds of the nasal cavity; and a substance supply unit which is operable to deliver the powdered substance through the nosepiece. |
| US08875700B2 |
Dose information device
A device to be used with a medical administration device includes administration driver for administrating a prescribed dose of medicament; and a mechanical dose setter for setting a prescribed dose of medicament to be administered, including a mechanical indicating member fixedly connected to the administration driver for indicating the prescribed set dose. The device includes a mechanical dose information device for registering the prescribed dose of medicament to be administered including a mechanical information member adjustable to display that the prescribed dose to be administered is correct and inter-connected to said mechanical indicating member such that when the prescribed dose is set, this is indicated positively by indications on the mechanical information member. |
| US08875697B2 |
Drug delivery apparatus and method
A drug delivery apparatus includes a mouthpiece portion having an internal conduit for delivering an aerosol including the drug to the patient. The internal conduit has an inlet end and a mouthpiece end that is structured to be received in the patient's mouth. The mouthpiece portion is structured to operate at a substantially fixed inhalation flow rate when the patient inhales through the mouthpiece end. The apparatus further includes an aerosol generator for generating the aerosol from a drug supply and injecting the aerosol into a first region within the mouthpiece portion located between an outlet of the aerosol generator and the inlet end of the conduit. The mouthpiece portion also includes a flow accelerating mechanism that causes a localized flow rate at the first region to be greater than the inhalation flow rate. A method is also provided that increases the local flow rate within the mouthpiece portion. |
| US08875695B2 |
Built-in cooking appliance
A built-in cooking appliance includes a main body, a top plate provided above the main body, a cabinet supporting the top plate, a support forming an airflow space between a side of the top plate and the cabinet and allowing the top plate to be supported by the cabinet even at the space, and an air outlet allowing internal air of the main body to be discharged through the support. |
| US08875694B2 |
Converging-diverging combustion zones for furnace heat exchanges
A furnace unit that comprises a burner assembly having at least one burner located therein and a heat exchanger having at least one continuous combustion tube. One end of the combustion tube has a first opening that is coupled to the burner assembly. The combustion tube has at least three zones. A first surface of the first zone has a first non-straight angle with a second surface of the second zone. The second surface has a second non-straight angle with a third surface of the third zone. The first zone is nearest of the three zones to the burner assembly and the second zone is in-between the first zone and the third zone. The first, second and third zones are within a flame length configured to be emitted from the burner. |
| US08875691B1 |
Stove system with remote control and temperature indicators
A stove system featuring a stove component with a burner and an oven. The stove component has a stove microprocessor and a display. The stove microprocessor is adapted to calculate a temperature of the burner. The display has a temperature indicator which functions to display a relative temperature of the burner. When the burner is in a first temperature range the temperature indicator is illuminated in a first color, when the burner is in a second temperature range the temperature indicator is illuminated in a second color, when the burner is in a third temperature range the temperature indicator is illuminated in a third color, and when the burner is in a fourth temperature range the temperature indicator is illuminated in a fourth color. |
| US08875686B2 |
Internal combustion engine
In an internal combustion engine (10), oil in an oil pan (21) is pressure-fed to lubrication sites through operation of an oil pump (22). After being used for lubrication of the lubrication sites, the oil runs down and collects in the oil pan (21). The internal combustion engine (10) is provided with a blow-by gas process device (40) including a communication passageway (48) that connects a portion of the intake passageway (12) on the downstream side of the throttle valve (13) in the intake flow direction and an interior of the crankcase (15) in communication. A pressure chamber (47) to which an end portion of the communication passageway (48) is open is defined in the interior of the crankcase (15). Oil scattered in the interior of the crankcase (15) is introduced into an interior of the pressure chamber (47) before mixing with the oil collected in the oil pan (21). |
| US08875685B2 |
Combustion method and apparatus
A method of combusting a very low cetane number material comprises injecting said material into a combustion cylinder of a heterogeneous-charge compression-ignition engine and supplying to the cylinder inlet port supplying the chamber combustion air or working fluid at a temperature substantially above ambient for substantially the entire time that the engine is running. Other aspects of the invention provide a compression ignition engine for use in the method, and method of using the engine to combust fuels. |
| US08875684B2 |
Evaporated fuel treatment device for motorcycle
A charge pipe passage includes a first tank-side pipe passage part which is connected to an upper surface of a fuel tank, and a second tank-side pipe passage part which is connected with the first tank-side pipe passage part and extends toward the other side of the fuel tank from one side of the fuel tank in the vehicle widthwise direction on an end portion thereof on a fuel tank side, and the first and second tank-side pipe passage parts, are fixed to the upper surface of the fuel tank. |
| US08875683B2 |
Two-phase spring
An annular two-phase spring has a plurality of first waves providing a first spring rate and a plurality of second waves providing a second spring rate. The two-phase spring can be used for installing a fuel injector in a fuel injector bore to improve sound performance. |
| US08875682B2 |
Coupling device and fuel injection arrangement
A coupling device for hydraulically and mechanically coupling an injection valve to a fuel rail of a combustion engine has a fuel injector cup with a central longitudinal axis, is hydraulically coupled to the fuel rail and in engagement with the injection valve. A first retaining element is fixedly coupled to the fuel injector cup, a second retaining element is fixedly coupled to the injection valve, the second retaining element being coupled to the first retaining element to prevent a movement of the second retaining element relative to the first retaining element in a first direction of the central longitudinal axis to retain the injection valve in the fuel injector cup, and an interface element which is operable to axially couple the injection valve with the second retaining element in a fixed way. Fuel injection arrangement with a coupling device and an injection valve which is coupled to the coupling device. |
| US08875680B2 |
Control device for internal combustion engine
At a time of start of an internal combustion engine, vaporization or atomization of a fuel for initial explosion is promoted, and thereby, discharge of HC can be restrained. The internal combustion engine includes a fuel injection valve which injects a fuel into an intake port, and an exhaust valve which can be stopped in a closed state for each cylinder. When the cylinder before initial explosion is in an exhaust stroke, the exhaust valve of the cylinder is stopped in a closed state. Subsequently, the fuel injection valve of the cylinder in which the exhaust valve is stopped in the closed state in the exhaust stroke is caused to inject the fuel for initial explosion so that an injection time is before opening timing of an intake valve or coincides with the opening timing. |
| US08875676B2 |
Roller tappet
A roller tappet (1) is proposed for a high-pressure fuel pump of an internal combustion engine, having a housing (2), in the case of the drive-side end (3) of which two surfaces (5) which lie diametrically opposite one another and are depressed by an outer shell (4) of the housing (2) are applied with in each case one receptacle (6), in which surfaces (5) a pin (8) is mounted which carries a cam roller (7), wherein an inner shell (9) of the housing (2), axially below the cam roller (7) as viewed in the direction remote from the drive, is penetrated by a bridge piece (10), the output-side end (11) of which has a rest (12) for a tappet following part, wherein the outer shell (4) of the housing (2) which is non-stepped as least as far as possible apart from the surfaces (5) is provided as a closed circumferential ring (14), as viewed in the drive direction immediately above upper sides (13) of the surfaces (5), which upper sides (13) run through the housing (2) in the manner of chords, which closed circumferential ring (14) is adjoined by the drive-side end (3), and wherein the receptacles (6) are present in the surfaces (5) as cut-outs which emanate from their upper sides (13) and nestle around the pin (8) in the manner of half-shells. |
| US08875675B2 |
Internal combustion engine having a plurality of exhaust ports per cylinder and charge exchange method for such an internal combustion engine
A method for controlling valve actuation in an engine is provided. The method includes initiating combustion operation in a first cylinder, opening, via a first cam, a first exhaust valve coupled to the first cylinder for a first opening duration. The method further includes opening, via a second cam, a second exhaust valve coupled to the first cylinder for a second opening duration not equivalent to the first opening duration. |
| US08875670B2 |
Engine with cylinder head cooling
A cylinder head for an engine is provided. The cylinder head may include an upper cooling jacket including at least a first inlet and a first outlet and a lower cooling jacket including at least a second inlet and a second outlet. The cylinder head may further include a first set of crossover coolant passages including one or more crossover coolant passages fluidly coupled to the upper cooling jacket and the lower cooling jacket and adjacent to one or more combustion chambers. |
| US08875669B2 |
Head gasket having variable area coolant openings
An engine assembly is provided herein. The engine assembly includes a head gasket interposing a cylinder block and a cylinder head, the head gasket comprising a first layer in face sharing contact with a portion of a cylinder head attachment surface included in the cylinder block and having a first-layer coolant opening adjacent to two neighboring cylinders and a second layer having a second-layer coolant opening having a smaller cross-sectional area than the first-layer coolant opening. |
| US08875667B2 |
Oil cooler
An assembly is provided herein. The assembly includes a cylinder block and a cooler coupled to the cylinder block positioned in a valley between two cylinder banks, the cooler including a lubricant passage having a first section configured to flow lubricant in an opposing direction to the flow of lubricant through a second section, the first and second sections each extending longitudinally from a first peripheral cylinder to a second peripheral cylinder in one of the cylinder banks. |
| US08875664B2 |
Water heater stacking detection and control
Methods and systems for operating a water heater to limit the effects of stacking in a water heater tank are disclosed. In some cases, the water heater controller may determine a rate of change of the water temperature in the water heater tank. If the rate of change exceeds a threshold value, the controller may adjust the water heater temperature set point downward to help reduce stacking in the water heater. In some cases, the water heater temperature set point may be returned to the original water heater temperature set point when stacking is no longer likely to be of a concern. In one illustrative embodiment, the controller may track the time that the heater of the water heater is in the “on” state, or the time that the heater is in the “off” state, during subsequent heating cycles. The controller may then compare the “on” time or the “off” time to respective recovery threshold times. If the “on” time or the “off” time exceeds its respective recovery threshold time, then the controller may adjust the set point toward the original water heater temperature set point, sometimes in an incremental manner. |
| US08875663B2 |
Pet chew product containing natural animal fibers, methods of manufacture and use thereof
A pet chew product comprising a molded chewable body formed of a composition including edible resin and natural animal fibers, wherein the natural animal fibers are at least one of: (a) located within the chewable body, and (b) located on an exposed surface of the chewable body, and wherein the natural animal fibers are provided by natural animal hair. |
| US08875656B2 |
Substrate processing apparatus
A substrate processing apparatus includes a processing chamber in which a substrate is mounted, a gas supply unit that supplies processing gas into the processing chamber, a gas exhaust unit that exhausts atmospheric gas in the processing chamber, first and second electrodes to which high-frequency power is applied to set the processing gas to an active state. Each of the first and second electrodes includes a core wire formed of a metal and plural pipe bodies that are joined to one another through the core wire so as to be bendable, and less thermally deformed than the core wire. |
| US08875653B2 |
Micro-extrusion printhead with offset orifices for generating gridlines on non-square substrates
A solar cell extrusion printing system that uses a micro-extrusion printhead to print longer central gridlines and one or more pairs of shorter “side” gridlines such that end points of the gridline sets form step patterns on an octagonal (pseudo-square) substrate. The printhead includes a set of central nozzles that receive ink from a first valve by way of a first flow channel to print the longer central gridlines, and additional sets of side nozzles that receive ink from additional valves by way of additional flow channels to print the shorter “side” gridlines. The central nozzles have outlet orifices that offset in the process direction from side outlet orifices of the side nozzles. A start signal is simultaneously sent to the valves such that ink is substantially simultaneously extruded through both the central and side orifices, whereby the extruded ink produces gridline endpoints having the desired step pattern. |
| US08875652B2 |
Liquid adhesive boundary control
A system for controlling a boundary of spreading liquid adhesive on a surface is disclosed. The system includes one or more ultra-violet (UV) sources configurable to emit UV light onto the liquid adhesive; and a control circuit coupled to the one or more UV sources and configured to control the one or more UV sources to selectively apply the UV light at selected locations on the liquid adhesive to cure the adhesive and prevent its further spread at those locations. |
| US08875649B2 |
Apparatus for dusting printed sheets with powder
An apparatus for dusting printed sheets with powder contains at least one powder nozzle, an actuating element which is mounted such that it can be adjusted into a position, in which the actuating element is situated in the jet path of the powder nozzle and the powder bounces off the actuating element, and an extraction device for extracting the powder which has bounced off the actuating element. An air-conducting connection exists permanently between the powder nozzle and the surroundings of the apparatus. |
| US08875648B2 |
Method and apparatus for load-locked printing
The disclosure relates to a method and apparatus for preventing oxidation or contamination during a circuit printing operation. The circuit printing operation can be directed to OLED-type printing. In an exemplary embodiment, the printing process is conducted at a load-locked printer housing having one or more of chambers. Each chamber is partitioned from the other chambers by physical gates or fluidic curtains. A controller coordinates transportation of a substrate through the system and purges the system by timely opening appropriate gates. The controller may also control the printing operation by energizing the print-head at a time when the substrate is positioned substantially thereunder. |
| US08875644B2 |
Ship's fore body form
A fore body of a ship has a bow having an upper bow portion, a lower bow portion, and a recessed bow portion between the upper bow portion and the lower bow portion. The recessed bow portion has a blunt shaped surface, curving inwards and backwards from a transition area between the upper bow portion and the recessed bow portion. The blunt shaped surface is designed to reflect smaller waves to reduce added wave resistance in smaller waves which are reflected in the recessed bow portion. |
| US08875643B2 |
Ship, in particular freight ship, with a magnus rotor
The invention relates to a ship comprising a plurality of Magnus rotors. Each Magnus rotor is associated with an electric motor which can be controlled individually and which is used to rotate the Magnus rotor. Each electric motor is associated with a converter in order to control the rotational speed and/or the rotational direction of the electric motor. The ship also comprises a central control unit which is connected to the converters, to control the individual converters, in order to control the rotational speed and/or the rotational direction of the Magnus rotors, independently from the other Magnus rotors. The ship also comprises an electric motor as the main drive of the ship, a converter for controlling the electric motor is associated with the electric motor. Said control unit controls the Magnus rotor in a first operational mode in such a manner that a maximal drive force is reached. |
| US08875642B2 |
Sewing machine
A sewing machine includes: a needle rod being reciprocated vertically; tension discs sandwiching an upper thread; a feed mechanism transporting a sewing object in a vertical direction; a reciprocating mechanism reciprocating the needle rod laterally; an upper thread tension adjusting mechanism adjusting the tension discs; a feed amount adjusting mechanism adjusting a feed amount of the feed mechanism; a stitch width adjusting mechanism adjusting a stitch width of the reciprocating mechanism; and a control apparatus controlling the upper thread tension adjusting mechanism, the feed amount adjusting mechanism, and/or the stitch width adjusting mechanism. A common adjusting mechanism, being one of the feed amount adjusting mechanism and the stitch width adjusting mechanism, includes: a motor; an adjusting mechanism body being a tooth-missing gear and/or a cam; and a variation amount adjusting unit. The upper thread tension adjusting mechanism includes: a thread loosening portion; and an upper thread tension adjusting unit. |
| US08875639B2 |
Modular conference table
A modular conference table allows meeting participants and office staff to quickly and effectively change the length of the conference table as the needs of the meeting participants change. The table includes a tabletop assembly including a first end-top, a second end-top, and a modular insert top. Additionally, modular conference table includes a leg assembly. upholding the tabletop assembly. The legs assembly includes two terminal supports and center supports. The modular conference table can be expanded in order to accommodate the needs of the user by adding an additional number of modular insert tops, modesty panels, and center supports. Thus, the table allows attendees of meetings and office staff to adjust the size of a conference table according to the size of the space or the needs of the user. |
| US08875635B2 |
Ballast delivery and computation system and method
A method for delivering ballast to a section of railroad track includes measuring an existing ballast profile of a section of railroad track using a remote sensing system, and providing a signal indicative thereof to a first computer. Using the first computer, the existing ballast profile is compared with an ideal ballast profile to compute a track file representing a volume of additional ballast needed as a function of linear position along the section of railroad track, and data representing the track file is transmitted to a second computer of an automatic ballast dump train. Ballast is dumped along the section of railroad track according to the track file under control of the second computer. |
| US08875626B2 |
Machining oil applying apparatus
A machining oil applying apparatus that applies machining oil onto a thin metal plate that is being conveyed toward a press apparatus includes: an upper surface applying unit that is impregnated with machining oil, contacts an upper surface of the thin plate and applies the machining oil onto the upper surface; a lower surface applying unit that is impregnated with the machining oil, contacts an lower surface of the thin plate and applies the machining oil onto the lower surface; and an applying unit moving portion that causes the upper surface applying unit and the lower surface applying unit to move reciprocally in a direction perpendicular to a conveying direction of the thin plate, wherein the upper surface applying unit and the lower surface applying unit always move in respectively opposite directions perpendicular to the conveying direction. |
| US08875620B2 |
Automated rack/basket lifting system for deep open vat frying system
A racking system for a deep fryer, wherein the deep fryer contains cooking oil, the racking system includes a housing; at least one rack that carries a food product; an actuator operatively associated with the rack to raise and lower the rack within the housing. The system further includes a sensor that detects a property of the cooking oil; and a controller that receives a signal to initiate a cooking cycle based on the property and sends a signal to permit activation of the actuator to raise and lower the rack. |
| US08875618B2 |
Appliance for fine steam-frothing a milk-based liquid
An appliance for heating and frothing a milk-containing liquid. The appliance includes a steam supply arrangement having an outlet with an opening for delivering into the milk-containing liquid bubbles of steam. The outlet is associated with a valve for adjusting the bubble size of the steam bubbles delivered into the liquid from the steam outlet opening. |
| US08875612B1 |
Suppressors made from intermetallic materials
Disclosed are several examples of apparatuses for suppressing the blast and flash produced as a projectile is expelled by gases from a firearm. In some examples, gases are diverted away from the central chamber to an expansion chamber by baffles. The gases are absorbed by the expansion chamber and desorbed slowly, thus decreasing pressure and increasing residence time of the gases. In other examples, the gases impinge against a plurality of rods before expanding through passages between the rods to decrease the pressure and increase the residence time of the gases. These and other exemplary suppressors are made from an intermetallic material composition for enhanced strength and oxidation resistance at high operational temperatures. |
| US08875608B2 |
Sheet slitting mechanism with automated size adjustment
This invention provides a slitter assembly with automated adjustment of slitter elements that allows for driven rotation of elements on the associated drive shaft during operation while enabling the elements to be moved freely along the drive shaft during setup and subsequently secured to the shaft free of lateral movement. This ensures that adjustment of the slitter elements is accurate, repeatable and reliable. In an illustrative embodiment, the slitter elements each comprise a pair of coaxial members including a blade member and a locking member. The blade member contains a slitter blade and overlies the locking member which is nested therewith. The locking member directly engages the drive shaft surface with a wedge assembly structure. The members are spring-loaded with respect to each other so that the two surfaces are normally biased to cam together and exert a hoop stress on the drive shaft. |
| US08875606B2 |
Modular cutting tool holder and clamping mechanism therefor
A modular cutting tool holder portion for a metal-working machine includes a first engagement face configured for clamping engagement with a corresponding second engagement face of a complementary modular cutting tool holder portion. The first engagement face includes a base surface and interlocking elements in the form of exactly four projecting protrusions or exactly four recesses. Each interlocking element includes a non-contact surface spaced from the base surface. The non-contact surface includes two opposing edges between which it extends, and two abutment surfaces each extending from a respective one of the two opposing edges to the base surface and being configured for the clamping engagement. |
| US08875601B2 |
Biaxial foldout tool with multiple tools on a side and a rotational stop
A biaxial foldout tool includes a body with opposing ends and one or more sets of tool drivers. The opposing ends are rotated 90° from each other. A first set of tool drivers is positioned on/near a first end and rotates about a first hinge; a second set of tool drivers is positioned on/near a second end and rotates about a second hinge. A first portion of the first set opens in a direction counter to an open direction of a second portion of the first set of tool drivers. A first portion of the second set opens in a direction counter to an open direction of a second portion of the second set of tool drivers. When tool drivers are in an open position, internal stops prevent the tool drivers from opening past a predetermined angle. The tool drivers are contained within channels of the body when in a closed position. |
| US08875598B2 |
Unit type wave gear device
A unit type wave gear device (1) has a unit housing (2), one end of which is defined by a two-stage cross roller bearing (7). The two-stage cross roller bearing (7) has: an inner cross roller bearing formed by an inner ring (13), an intermediate ring (12), and inner rollers (17) inserted into an inner track (16); and has an outer cross roller bearing formed by an outer ring (11), the intermediate ring (12), and outer rollers (15) inserted into an outer track (14). A flexible externally-toothed gear (22) affixed to the intermediate ring (12) is rotatably supported by the unit housing (2) via the outer cross roller bearing. An input shaft (4) affixed to the inner ring (13) and a wave generator (23) affixed to the input shaft (4) are rotatably supported by the intermediate ring (12) via the inner cross roller bearing. A unit type wave gear device can be realized in which the number of components are reduced and a large moment load is applied. |
| US08875591B1 |
Methods for measuring at least one rheological property of diamond particles
Methods of measuring at least one rheological property of diamond particles used in the manufacture of polycrystalline diamond are disclosed. Diamond particles are provided including a plurality of unsintered diamond particles. A rheological property (e.g., a torsional mechanical property or other flow property) of the diamond particles is measured. By comparing the measured value of the torsional mechanical property to that of a baseline known to correlate to the desired target specification, it may be determined whether the diamond particles are within an acceptable range relative to the target specification. Such a method may be incorporated into methods for manufacturing a polycrystalline diamond compact to ensure the quality of a polycrystalline diamond table thereof. |
| US08875590B2 |
Crash simulation and crash simulation method
A crash simulation system has a parallel carriage (4) guided to move in a translatory manner and at least one camera (11-13) with an associated brake device. The brake device includes a contactless brake. |
| US08875588B2 |
Manifold sensing apparatus for steering
Provided is a complex sensing apparatus for a steering system. In the complex sensing apparatus in accordance, since an insertion projections of a first PCB are inserted into a through-holes of a second PCB to be press-fitted to each other, the first PCB is securely coupled to the second PCB. In addition, since a support member configured to surround and support an edge of the first PCB is coupled to the second PCB, the first PCB is more securely coupled to the second PCB. Accordingly, since there is no probability of separating the first PCB from the second PCB and there is no probability of occurrence of cracks in a soldered part between the first and second PCBs, reliability of products can be improved. |
| US08875586B2 |
Gas flow meter with horizontal piston movement
A method and a gas flow meter for measuring gas flow. A cylinder is supported in the flow meter with a horizontal orientation. A piston is disposed movably within the cylinder, the piston having a surface which forms a clearance seal with a surface of the cylinder. The piston may have a low-friction coating such as diamond-like carbon. A gas flow to be measured is received at a gas inlet, and directed to the cylinder so as to move the piston within the cylinder. The gas flow is directed by valves and conduits alternately to the two ends of the cylinder, for measuring the gas flow in both directions of the cylinder. From the detected movement of said piston electrical signals representative of the gas flow are generated. |
| US08875584B2 |
Pressure-sensitive sensor, and grip apparatus and robot manipulator equipped with the same
A pressure-sensitive conductive rubber for reference is provided inside a housing in such a state that preload is imposed thereon. A pressure-sensitive conductive rubber for detection is also provided inside the housing in such a state that preload is imposed thereon and an external load acts thereon. A load detecting circuit applies voltage to the pressure-sensitive conductive rubbers to determine the external load based on a difference between a detected value corresponding to electric current flowing through the pressure-sensitive conductive rubber for reference and a detected value corresponding to electric current flowing through the pressure-sensitive conductive rubber for detection. |
| US08875575B2 |
Yaw rate sensor
A yaw rate sensor includes: at least one Coriolis element; a drive device connected to the Coriolis element and configured to drive a vibration of the Coriolis element; a detection device having at least one rotor; and a coupling device connected to the detection device and to the Coriolis element. The coupling device is configured to couple a deflection in the plane of vibration of the Coriolis element to the detection device in a direction orthogonal to the vibration, so that when the Coriolis element is deflected a torque for driving the at least one rotor is transmitted from the Coriolis element to the at least one rotor. |
| US08875571B2 |
Detector of presence of a liquid
A detector for detecting the presence of a liquid comprising a probe sensitive to the presence of the liquid on contact with it, and a casing surrounding the probe comprising: a) an opening for receiving the liquid in the casing; b) an inlet distinct from the opening for the admission of a test liquid into the casing in contact with the probe, the placing of the test liquid in contact with the probe in the casing causing the presence of the test liquid to be detected if the probe operates correctly and causing no detection in the contrary case; and c) an outlet for the discharge of a portion of the test liquid from the casing after the test liquid has been placed in contact with the probe, the discharge being sufficient for the probe to no longer detect the test liquid remaining in the casing. |
| US08875569B2 |
Level sensor and reservoir for housing liquid
A sensor for determining level of liquid in a reservoir, a reservoir containing such sensor, and a method for determining level using such sensor. The sensor comprises a liquid-proof housing, at least one actuator operatively connected to the inner side of the housing and configured to generate vibrations, and at least one vibration sensor operatively connected town inner side of the housing and configured to measure vibrations. The actuator comprises an electromagnet directly or indirectly fixedly connected to the inner side of the housing, and a permanent magnet movably suspended in the housing, wherein the electromagnet and the permanent magnet are configured such that activation of the actuator creates an oscillating mutual displacement in parallel with a longitudinal center axis of the electromagnet. |
| US08875567B2 |
Measurement of diesel engine emissions
An emissions output of an engine, such as a diesel generator, may be determined from the load on the engine and an exhaust volume from the engine. Chemicals such as nitrogen oxide (NOx) may be calculated for a measured load on the engine. The calculation may include determining an air flow in the engine from air pressure measurements and turbo compressor speed measurements. The calculation may also include determining a gas flow into the engine by deriving fuel flow from known test results. The calculated emissions output may be used to ensure compliance of an engine with environmental regulations. A remote monitoring program may generate alerts when the engine fails to comply with environmental regulations. |
| US08875561B2 |
Systems and methods for diagnosing an engine
Presently disclosed are methods and systems for diagnosing a coolant leak of an engine. A method may include diagnosing a coolant leak of an engine based on identified fill signatures of a measured engine coolant pressure. A vehicle system is also disclosed, including an engine, a coolant system operatively connected to the engine, a coolant pressure sensor configured to measure engine coolant pressure during operation of the engine, and a controller, including instructions configured to create a coolant pressure profile corresponding to a given engine speed, and diagnose a condition of the engine based on the coolant pressure profile. |
| US08875557B2 |
Circuit diagnostics from flame sensing AC component
A diagnostic flame sensing circuit having less filtration so that an AC component of a flame sensing input is available for circuit diagnostics. Synchronized data sampling may used to detect the peak to peak magnitude of the residual AC component. A comparison of the magnitude of the component relative to a magnitude of the component during normal operation of the circuit may be used to check the condition of nearly all of the elements in the circuit. |
| US08875553B2 |
Method and mould arrangement for explosion forming
The invention is intended to improve a tool arrangement and method for explosive forming of a workpiece by means of gas explosion, in which the workpiece is arranged in a intake area of a molding tool, wherein the intake area is at least partially filled with liquid and the explosion is triggered by means of ignition of an explosive gas mixture, to the effect that the tool arrangement and the method are suitable and simplified for mass production. This object is solved by means of a tool arrangement and a method for explosive forming of a workpiece by means of gas explosion, in which the workpiece is arranged in a intake area of a molding tool, wherein the intake area is at least partially filled with liquid and the explosion is triggered by means of ignition of an explosive gas mixture, in which the explosive gas mixture is provided at least partially above the surface of the liquid before the ignition. |
| US08875550B1 |
Double shackle bicycle padlock with RFID unlocking
A bicycle padlock has two, independently manipulated, shackles of unequal size, long and short, extending from opposite sides of a body which houses an RFID reader for remote, automatic unlocking. Circuitry in the housing includes a microprocessor which actuates the reader to operate an unlocking motor only within a limited time of receiving a signal from a motion sensor, for battery conservation. A secondary manual unlocking mechanism is operable on failure of the automatic unlocking circuitry. |
| US08875548B2 |
Laundry treating appliance with cleaning system for residual treating chemistry
A method and apparatus for at least partially removing residual treating chemistry on an interface between a removable treating chemistry reservoir and a dispensing system of a laundry treating appliance. |
| US08875543B2 |
Methods and systems for forming continuous glass sheets
A method for forming a continuous glass sheet from a tube of glass includes expanding and thinning the tube of glass by drawing the tube of glass over susceptor bearing comprising a porous sidewall defining an internal chamber. The diameter of the susceptor bearing may increase between a top portion and a bottom portion. The tube of glass may be maintained at a temperature above a softening point of the glass as the tube of glass is drawn over the susceptor bearing. The tube of glass is suspended over the susceptor bearing by blowing the tube of glass away from the susceptor bearing in a radial direction with a pressurized fluid supplied to the internal chamber and emitted from the porous sidewall as the tube of glass is drawn over the susceptor bearing. Thereafter, the tube of glass is cooled and sectioned to form a continuous glass sheet. |
| US08875542B2 |
Magnetic interchangeable jewelry
The present invention is a jewelry device comprising a base unit which may be affixed to clothing or otherwise adapted to be worn on a person and a front unit which concentrically fits inside base unit and either serves as an enclosure for an ornamented object or itself bears ornamentation. Base unit contains a ring or radial magnet which is of a shape to fit inside the inner perimeter of base unit. Front unit contains a ring or radial magnet which is of a shape to fit around the outside perimeter of front unit. Both front unit and base unit magnets are of a similar circumference allowing magnetic forces to secure front unit to base unit. Front unit, or ornamented objects enclosed by front unit, are interchangeable with other like elements bearing different ornamentation. |
| US08875539B2 |
Refrigerator
A refrigerator is provided. The refrigerator may include two compressors and two condensers disposed in a machinery compartment. The refrigerator may employ a single fan, also provided in the machinery compartment, to blow air to the two compressors and the two condensers. |
| US08875536B2 |
Ice making unit and refrigerator having the same
A refrigerator includes a body provided with a freezing compartment, a refrigerating compartment and an ice making compartment provided in the refrigerating compartment; an ice making unit including an ice making tray to produce ice in the ice making compartment; an ice storage container to store the ice made by the ice making unit; and a refrigerant pipe protruding from an interior wall of the body to supply cooling energy to the ice making compartment. A drainage duct is disposed between the ice making unit and the ice storage container adapted to prevent water drops from the ice making unit falling into the ice storage container. The drainage duct include at least one fixer configured to push the refrigerant pipe to a lower surface of the ice making tray to contact the refrigerant pipe with the lower surface of the ice making tray. |
| US08875533B2 |
Data center of high heat dissipation efficiency
A data center includes a container, a server system, an air conditioner, and an air guide. The container includes a floor, and a sidewall that defines a through hole adjacent to the floor. The server system includes a rack and a number of servers mounted in the rack. The rack defines an air outlet apart from but facing the sidewall. The air conditioner includes an evaporator and a condenser. The evaporator is positioned on the top of the rack. The condenser defines an outlet and is sandwiched between the bottom of the rack and the floor and extending through the through hole. The air outlet of the condenser faces outside of the container. The air guide is a sheet extending from an edge of the evaporator that is distant from the rack and then bends to extend toward the floor. |
| US08875532B2 |
Device for regulating the temperature of a plurality of components of a vehicle and vehicle system
A device for regulating a temperature of a plurality of components of a vehicle is provided. The device has a first heat exchanger and a second heat exchanger, which are connected to one another in order to form a closed refrigerant circuit. The device furthermore has a first multiway valve, a second multiway valve, a third multiway valve and a fourth multiway valve for connecting the first and the second heat exchanger to a first component and a second component of the vehicle. |
| US08875531B2 |
Fuel cell vehicle
The present invention provides a fuel cell vehicle, particularly a fuel cell vehicle equipped with a moisture remover that removes moisture from an air conditioner evaporator. The fuel cell vehicle includes: a fuel cell stack as a power supplier; an electric heater operated by power from the fuel cell stack; a blower fan for providing air to the electric heater; an air channel configured to supply the air passing through the electric heater to an air conditioner evaporator; and a controller for controlling the operations of the electric heater and the blower fan, whereby moisture is removed from the air conditioner evaporator by supplying air heated by the electric heater to the air conditioner evaporator. The fuel cell vehicle effectively removes moisture from an air conditioner evaporator, solves the problem of a bad smell in the related art, and further removes the oxygen and the stack voltage which remain in the cathode, such that it is possible to avoid cathode oxygen depletion of the related art. |
| US08875523B2 |
Cryopump and evacuation method
A cryopump includes a refrigerator which cools a cryopanel and a controller which receives a control signal representing an operation mode from a beam irradiating apparatus and controls the refrigerator based on the control signal. The operation mode includes an irradiation mode for irradiating a beam to a target and an idle mode for diverting the beam from the target or keeping the beam with a level weaker than that of the irradiation mode. The controller controls the refrigerator such that the cryopanel is cooled in both the irradiation mode and the idle mode to a cooling temperature at which gas molecules are held and allows the cooling temperature in at least a part of the period of the idle mode to be higher than that of the irradiation mode. |
| US08875522B2 |
Magnetic heat pump apparatus
A magnetic heat pump apparatus includes: a container defining a work chamber; a magnetic working element arranged in the work chamber; a magnetic-field applier that alternately applies a magnetic field to the magnetic working element and removes the magnetic field from the magnetic working element in a magnetic-field direction; and a transportation device that transports heat medium to reciprocate in a reciprocation direction. The magnetic-field direction and the reciprocation direction intersect with each other. The magnetic working element is one of a plurality of magnetic working elements. Each of the plurality of magnetic working elements has a column shape extending in the magnetic-field direction. |
| US08875520B2 |
Gas turbine engine device
A gas turbine engine adapter is provided. In one form the adapter is segmented and may be attached to a gas turbine engine support ring. The adapter can provide a channel that may receive part of a gas turbine engine component such as, but not limited to, a plug nozzle. The adapter can include a load bearing support to counteract axial forces experienced by the plug nozzle during operation of the gas turbine engine. A compressible seal can be provided between the plug nozzle and the adapter. A leaf seal can also be provided to seal between segments of the adapter. The plug nozzle can be discouraged from rotating relative to the adapter. |
| US08875519B2 |
Relighting a turbofan engine
The method and apparatus for in-flight relighting of a turbofan engine involve in one aspect selectively controlling an accessory drag load on one or more windmilling rotors to permit control of the windmill speed to an optimum value for relight conditions. |
| US08875518B2 |
Nacelle with an adaptable outlet section
The present invention relates to a jet engine nacelle (1) comprising an aft section (5) having an internal structure (9) intended to surround an aft portion of an engine compartment and to define, with an exhaust nozzle (6), a calibrated outlet section for the ventilation of the engine compartment by way of spacing means arranged in the outlet section, characterized in that the spacing means are divided into rigid spacing means (11) designed to provide a constant spacing and into compensating means (13) designed so as to be able to adapt to the relative movements of the jet engine with respect to the nacelle. |
| US08875516B2 |
Turbine combustor configured for high-frequency dynamics mitigation and related method
A turbomachine combustor includes a combustion chamber; a plurality of micro-mixer nozzles mounted to an end cover of the combustion chamber, each including a fuel supply pipe affixed to a nozzle body located within the combustion chamber, wherein fuel from the supply pipe mixes with air in the nozzle body prior to discharge into the combustion chamber; and wherein at least some of the nozzle bodies of the plurality of micro-mixer nozzles have axial length dimensions that differ from axial length dimensions of other of the nozzle bodies. |
| US08875515B2 |
Integrated generator cooling system
An expansion system is presented. One embodiment of the expansion system that includes a pump configured to pressurize a condensed working fluid received from a condenser. The expansion system further includes a heat exchanger coupled to the pump and configured to vaporize the condensed working fluid received from the pump. The expansion system also includes an expander coupled to the heat exchanger and configured to expand the vaporized working fluid flowing from an inlet side of the expander to an outlet side of the expander. In addition, the expansion system includes a generator coupled to the expander and configured to generate energy in response to the expansion of the vaporized working fluid. Further, the expansion system includes an integrated cooling unit configured to convey at least a portion of the condensed working fluid from an inlet side of the generator to an outlet side of the generator to dissipate heat generated by the generator. |
| US08875514B2 |
Thermo-electric engine
A thermo-electric engine with a working fluid operative in a closed Rankine cycle to enable a harvesting energy from an external source of thermodynamic energy, such as an internal combustion engine or solar energy. The thermo-electric engine can have an evaporator; a turbine fluidically coupled to the evaporator; a heat exchanger comprising a condenser for receiving working fluid from the turbine; a hot liquid input for coupling to a source of heated liquid coolant from an internal combustion engine to the evaporator; a liquid return for returning liquid coolant to the internal combustion engine; a cooling liquid input to the condenser for receiving cooling liquid from a radiator; and a cooling liquid return for returning the cooling liquid to the radiator. Alternatively, a solar energy collector can power a turbine fluidically coupled to the solar energy collector for receiving working fluid. |
| US08875505B2 |
Internal combustion engine and method for controlling internal combustion engine speed
In one exemplary embodiment of the invention a method for controlling a speed of an internal combustion engine includes shutting off fuel flow into a cylinder to reduce the speed of the internal combustion engine. The method also includes providing an electrical load to an alternator of the internal combustion engine, further reducing the speed of the internal combustion engine. |
| US08875500B2 |
Mounting foot for an after-treatment component
A mounting foot for mounting an after-treatment component to a frame is disclosed. The mounting foot may have a pad connectable to the frame. The mounting foot may also have a slider slidably connected to the pad. In addition, the mounting foot may have a mounting bracket. The mounting bracket may have a first end connectable to the after-treatment component and a second end connected to the slider. |
| US08875498B2 |
System comprising a pump, an injector and a regulator, with control signals to the pump which are based on calculated hose rigidities
A pump system that includes a pump, an injector and a regulator with a calculation unit. The regulator controls the pump to pump a liquid through a hose to the injector which opens and closes in response to an injector control signal, the time for an opening and closing cycle being called injector cycle and designated Ts, and the injector's open period being designated γ. The injector has a pressure sensor to measure the pressure of the liquid in the injector and to deliver to the calculation unit a pressure sensor signal representing the pressure amplitude in the injector. The calculation unit calculates the hose's rigidity B as a function of measured pressured amplitudes A in the injector, the injector cycle Ts and the injector's open period γ, and the regulator determines the basis of B the control signal to the pump. |
| US08875490B2 |
System and method to control selective catalytic reduction systems in feedback
A method includes determining a current mid-bed NH3 amount by operating an NH3 sensor positioned at a mid-bed location for an engine aftertreatment system having two SCR catalyst beds. The method further includes operating a NOx sensor positioned at the mid-bed location, and interpreting a current mid-bed ammonia to NOx ratio (ANR) and a current mid-bed NOx in response to the mid-bed NH3 amount and the operating the NOx sensor. The method further includes correcting an output value of the NOx sensor for cross-sensitivity to NH3. The method includes determining a mid-bed ANR constraint, determining a feedforward mid-bed NOx target, and providing a reductant injector command in response to the current mid-bed ANR, the current mid-bed NOx, the ANR constraint, and the feedforward mid-bed NOx target. |
| US08875489B2 |
Reduction of particulate, NOx, and ammonia emissions
A method for controlling emissions from an engine includes reducing trapped nitrogen oxides to ammonia on an LNT catalyst while concurrently oxidizing soot accumulated on the LNT catalyst, and, flowing the ammonia so formed to an SCR catalyst. |
| US08875488B2 |
Internal combustion engine
An internal combustion engine, in which intake air flows through an intake passage into a combustion chamber and exhaust gas resulting from the combustion in the combustion chamber flows through an exhaust passage, includes an exhaust gas purifier provided in the exhaust passage and having an oxidation catalyst, an LPL-EGR passage connecting between the intake passage and the exhaust passage at a position downstream of the exhaust gas purifier as seen in exhaust gas flow direction, a first estimating device for estimating exhaust gas composition at a position upstream of the exhaust gas purifier, a second estimating device for estimating exhaust gas composition at a position downstream of the exhaust gas purifier, a cylinder temperature adjusting device for adjusting temperature in the combustion chamber, and a controller for controlling the cylinder temperature adjusting device based on the difference in the exhaust gas composition between the first and second estimating devices. |
| US08875484B2 |
Guide for an ignition plug in a turbomachine combustion chamber
A turbomachine combustion chamber including at least one ignition plug carried by an outer casing and extending within guide means carried by a wall of the chamber, the wall forming a body of revolution. The guide means includes a tubular guide having the plug passing axially therethrough and mounted with axial and transverse clearance on a chimney fastened to the wall of the chamber and opening out into the chamber, the guide extending at least in part in an air flow stream outside the chamber. The guide means includes a deflector surrounding the portion of the guide that is situated in the air flow stream so as to reduce the aerodynamic pressure on the guide and reduce the contact pressure of the guide on the plug. |
| US08875481B2 |
Front attachment for self-propelled harvesting machine
A front attachment for harvesting stalk-type crop for a self-propelled harvesting machine has at least one cutting device for cutting the stalk-type crop, at least one transverse conveying device for conveying the cut crop to an intake device of the harvesting machine, wherein the at least one cutting device is at least one continuously circulating carrier element having a cylindrical cross section and including at least one cutting element having a coating containing hard-material elements, and at least one pair of guide elements which drive and guide the at least one cutting device. |
| US08875479B2 |
Polymeric coating applicators and methods of filling same
A method of filling CARC (chemical agent resistant coating) applicators ensures integrity of the CARC paint. The method incorporates the steps of the steps of pre-priming a container and applicator with a solvent to ensure evacuation of air; pre-reducing the chemical agent resistant coating with a reduction thinning agent to a final viscosity such that the final assembled applicator produces an atomization mist suitable to apply said coating; agitating the pre-reduced coating on a paint shaker; continuously purging a hermetically sealed chamber with nitrogen or another dry inert gas; preheating all items that will come in direct contact with said coating to eliminate any residual moisture within each item; assembling said dry preheated items and immediately transferring them into said chamber inserting steel sphere agitation units into a dried container, such that each container contains three small spheres and one large sphere; transferring the coating into said chamber prior to opening said container; filling said container; and purging the filled container with nitrogen or other inert gas then immediately sealing said container and removing it from said chamber. |
| US08875477B2 |
Beverage pod manufacturing machine
A filter paper cup manufacturing machine produces filter paper cups containing a brewing material. The filter paper cups have similar depth and diameter. The machine exercises ordered steps of first cutting a receptacle portion and then forming a recess in the receptacle portion for receiving the brewing material. Performing the cutting step first facilitates forming the recess because surrounding filter paper which would resist forming the recess has been eliminated. |
| US08875470B2 |
Assembly rig for assembling a wind turbine tower or wind turbine tower sections and a respective method
An assembly rig for assembling a wind turbine tower or wind turbine tower sections is provided. The assembly rig includes a platform assembly having a vertically oriented mast and one or more substantially horizontally oriented booms which are connected to the vertically oriented mast that has a platform or a personnel basket. The assembly rig also includes a radial segment supporting assembly having a vertically oriented mast and one or more substantially horizontally oriented booms connected to the vertically oriented mast that has a segment holding device at its distal end. The assembly rig further includes a surface, for supporting and levelling the platform assembly and the radial segment supporting assembly. In one embodiment, the surface may be a ground support boom. |
| US08875466B1 |
Modular elevated walkway system
A modular elevated walkway system elevates a person and places them in close proximity to an engine compartment to enable the person to conduct maintenance on components of the engine. The system includes a plurality of platform units. Each of the platform units is coupled to an adjacently positioned one of the platform units. Each of the platform units includes a platform having a planar upper surface configured for supporting the weight of a person standing thereupon. A plurality of legs is coupled to and extends downwardly from the associated platform. The legs are configured to support the associated platform above a ground surface. |
| US08875465B2 |
Flooring panel or wall panel and use thereof
Flooring panel or wall panel and a use thereof in a wet room. The panel is provided with a locking means in the form of groove and tongue forming a tongue/groove joint for assembling of the panels. The groove and the tongue are preferably made of water tight material and formed with a snap-together joint. |
| US08875459B2 |
Modular building system
A modular building system uses a perimeter bond beam and prefabricated wall panels to form an exterior curtain wall. The wall panels are captured within, and may move vertically inside a channel formed in the bond beam. The wall panels are quickly erected by inserting an upper edge of each panel into the channel and swinging the panel onto the foundation where it is claimed in place on the foundation. |
| US08875455B1 |
Ramp mounting system for a flat roof solar array
A mounting system for solar modules in which a mounting beam has its opposite ends bent downwardly to form a first and second leg that hold photovoltaic modules at an angle to a flat roof, wherein the first and second legs are screw fastened into a rafter and the bottom ends of the first and second legs are placed into receptacles into which sealant is poured, thereby forming a water-tight seal preventing any water from leaking into the holes formed by the fasteners securing the first and second legs to the building rafters. |
| US08875454B2 |
Pan tile roofing system
A plurality of pan tiles are disposed in confronting, supported relation on an underlying roof support and in underlying, at least partially supporting relation to plurality of overlapping, exteriorly exposed roof tile. Each pan tile includes a planar base and two oppositely disposed planar side segments extending outwardly from opposite peripheries of said base at a common, preferred obtuse angle. Leading and trailing ends of pan tiles have a greater and lesser transverse dimension respectively, wherein the side segments or oriented in a converging configuration extending from the leading end to the trailing end of the pan tile. Solar energy systems may also be incorporated in the pan tiles and a heat dissipating assembly and/or a stabilizing assembly may also be included. |
| US08875451B1 |
Stackable foundation anchors
A screw-in foundation anchor for traffic, lighting and utility poles and the like. The anchor comprises a shaft with an upper end fixed to a base plate on which the pole base is attachable. A helical blade on the shaft allows the anchor to be driven into the earth by rotation. At least two notches are provided on the edges of the base plate, each notch sized to engage the shaft of an adjacent anchor. Multiple anchors can be strapped together in groups or bundles for storage and shipment, with the notches engaging adjacent anchor. Such an arrangement prevents dislodgement or shifting of the anchors in transit. This reduces the cost of shipping the anchors, decreases the likelihood of damage to the anchors during shipment, and improves the safety of handling the bundles and unloading the individual anchors. |
| US08875449B2 |
Closure system for memorial product
A closure system for a memorial product, such as a columbarium, is disclosed. In one embodiment, the closure system is configured to be mounted to a niche compartment such that an opening of the niche compartment is covered. In one embodiment, the closure system includes a face plate hanger and a face plate. The face plate hanger may include first and second rails that are generally directed towards each other. The face plate may be provided with a first channel constructed to receive the first rail and a second channel constructed to receive the second rail. The face plate hanger may also include a cover panel that is configured to cover the niche opening. A columbarium is also disclosed in which a cabinet structure is provided that defines a plurality of niche compartments wherein each of the compartments has an opening that is covered by the above described closure system. |
| US08875447B2 |
Mast and guy wire systems for use with long lateral completion systems and method
A completion system and method adapted for use in wells having long lateral boreholes includes a mast assembly, a pipe handling mechanism, a pipe arm, a pipe tub, a pump/pit combination skid, a rig carrier, and a control system. The mast assembly can extend in a generally vertical direction, e.g., perpendicular to the rig carrier and/or the earth's surface, such that the rig can be placed directly adjacent to a wellbore, and the top drive or a similar drive system can be engaged with and move along the mast while remaining above the wellbore. |
| US08875444B2 |
Method of installing a low-profile threshold barrier
A low-profile barrier and method of installation is provided including a barrier door located in an opening defined by a frame having a pair of upwardly extending arms connected to a lower cross member. In an un-installed position, the lower cross member has a curvature biasing the upwardly extending arms outward. In an installed position, the curvature of the lower cross member is compressed to zero so that the lower cross member lays flat against a lower surface. |
| US08875439B2 |
Cultivation of hazel tree with the crown having the form of vertical spindle on the support
Cultivation of hazel tree with the crown having the form of a vertical spindle on a support represents a new way of planting and cultivation of hazel trees. FIG. 3 shows cultivation of hazel tree in double rows, which have crowns in the form of a vertical cylinder shown in FIG. 1. A skeleton of the basic tree consists of a central line without trunk, having on it radially arranged primary and yielding branches. During the life of a basic tree branches are cut forming the crown on the line that may grow up to 3 or 5 meters and the external diameter of the spindle of the crown may be from 0.5 up to 1 meter. The skeleton is weak and the basic trees are leant against supports. |
| US08875438B2 |
Method of pesticide treatment of soil adjacent structures
A method of treating soil adjacent a structure generally includes positioning an injection apparatus over a first injection site generally adjacent a structure. The injection apparatus is operated to inject pesticide down into the soil at the first injection site without prior disturbance of the soil at the first injection site. The injection apparatus is moved over a second injection site at least in part different from the first injection site and generally adjacent the structure. The injection apparatus is operated to inject pesticide down into the soil at the second injection site and without prior disturbance of the soil at the second injection site. |
| US08875434B2 |
Gun rail attachments, components, accessories and systems
Gun rail attachments, gun components and accessories and systems include attachment bodies made of polymeric materials with hardness ratings and ranges which are generally flexible and malleable and heat resistant. Reinforcing members are combined with the attachment bodies for secure attachment to gun rails and grips with only the polymeric attachment bodies exposed. Pockets, cavities and channels are formed in the attachment bodies for receiving wires, devices, device modules, components or accessories for guns. |
| US08875432B2 |
Firearm
A firearm for implementing an improved 9 mm cartridge is provided, wherein the improved 9 mm cartridge includes a 9 mm bullet associated with a 45-9 cartridge casing, wherein the 9 mm bullet weights at least 90 grains and wherein the 45-9 cartridge casing is configured to contain a propellant sufficient to propel the 9 mm bullet to a velocity of at least 1600 feet per second. The firearm may include a barrel, wherein the barrel is configured to operably interact with the 9 mm bullet and a chamber, wherein the chamber includes at least one chamber portion sized and shaped to operably associate with the 45-9 cartridge casing and a free-bore, wherein the free-bore includes at least one free-bore portion sized and shaped to operably associate with the 9 mm bullet. |
| US08875426B2 |
Signage system
A signage system (10) including one or more visual display devices (11), each mounted for display behind the windshield (15) of one or more parked and ignition-off vehicles (16). Each sign (11) has a visual display surface (12) that is capable of forming an illuminated graphic display (13) on the visual display surface (12). The visual display surface (12) would be visible to observers in front of the vehicle (16). The system (10) includes wireless communication hardware (60) that allows the visual display (11) to be programmed by a remote programming device (41). Each of the display devices (11) can be programmed to have a separate message and each message would scroll from left to right across the display surface (12) in a time coordinated manner so that the message appears to scroll consistently from left to right across the visual field of the plurality of display surfaces (12). |
| US08875425B2 |
Decorated container associable with airless pumps and method for its production
A container comprising a substantially rigid body formed at least partially of transparent material and having a neck defining an opening providing access to the container cavity, and a bag positioned in the interior of the body. The bag being formed of thermoplastic material and having a neck from which there radially extends a flange which rests on a free edge of the neck of the body and defines a hole for providing access to the cavity of the bag and for sealedly housing the body of a hermetic pump operable manually to withdraw the fluid substance from the bag and feed it to the outside through its dispensing stem. The bag being formed by hot blow moulding of a preform positioned directly within the container. A decorative and/or informative sheet detached from the opening being interposed between said container and said bag, and being visible from the outside of the container. |
| US08875421B2 |
Apparatus for adapting a hoe bucket for depth control
A kit for modifying a digging bucket for controlling the depth cut, including an elongated member operationally connectable to a hoe bucket defining a cutting edge, an actuator operationally connectable to the elongated member, an electronic controller operationally connectable to the actuator, and a position sensor operationally connectable to the cutting edge and operationally connectable to the electronic controller. The actuator may be energized to pivot the elongated member to a position adjacent the cutting edge for engaging ground. Positioning of the elongated member adjacent the cutting edge prevents the cutting edge from digging ground. |
| US08875420B2 |
Apparatus for adapting a hoe bucket for depth control
A kit for modifying a digging bucket for controlling the depth cut, including an elongated member operationally connectable to a hoe bucket defining a cutting edge, an actuator operationally connectable to the elongated member, an electronic controller operationally connectable to the actuator, and a position sensor operationally connectable to the cutting edge and operationally connectable to the electronic controller. The actuator may be energized to pivot the elongated member to a position adjacent the cutting edge for engaging ground. Positioning of the elongated member adjacent the cutting edge prevents the cutting edge from digging ground. |
| US08875415B2 |
Method for drying granular water-containing gel-like cross-linked polymer
The present invention is to provide a drying method by which both cost reduction and superior physical properties can be attained in a step which comprises subjecting a water-containing gel-like crosslinked polymer obtained by polymerizing an aqueous monomer solution to fine granulation during or after the polymerization, and drying the resultant particulate water-containing gel-like crosslinked polymer with a through-circulation band dryer. The method has a feature in that the drying conditions over a period from a time of introducing the particulate water-containing gel-like crosslinked polymer into a drying zone of the through-circulation band dryer to a time of reaching a solid content concentration thereof to 80% by weight, satisfy that (1) a difference of temperature between a temperature of hot air blown to a particulate hydrogel layer and a temperature measured after the hot air passes through the particulate hydrogel layer is 20 to 70° C. |
| US08875413B2 |
Controlled nucleation during freezing step of freeze drying cycle using pressure differential ice crystals distribution from condensed frost
A method of controlling and enhancing the nucleation of product in a freeze dryer, wherein the product is maintained at a predetermined temperature and pressure in a chamber of the freeze dryer, and a predetermined volume of condensed frost is created on an inner surface of a condenser chamber separate from the product chamber and connected thereto by a vapor port. The condenser chamber has a predetermined pressure that is greater than that of the product chamber. The opening of the vapor port into the product chamber creates gas turbulence that breaks down the condensed frost into ice crystals that rapidly enter the product chamber for even distribution therein to create uniform and rapid nucleation of the product in different areas of the product chamber. |
| US08875409B2 |
Coordinate measurement machines with removable accessories
A portable articulated arm coordinate measuring machine for measuring the coordinates of an object in space is provided. The AACMM includes a base and a arm portion having an opposed first end and second end. The arm portion includes a plurality of connected arm segments, each arm segment including at least one position transducer for producing a position signal. An electronic circuit is provided that receives the position signal from the at least one position transducer. A probe member is disposed is coupled to the first end. A noncontact three-dimensional measuring device is coupled to the probe member, the device having an electromagnetic radiation transmitter and is configured to determine a distance to an object based at least in part on the propagation time of the emitted and reflected light beams. |
| US08875405B2 |
Micro surgical knife with safety feature
A surgical knife safety handle device comprises a handle body being essentially solid. A movable guard engages with the body for longitudinal movement between an extended position and a retracted position. The guard encloses a knife blade. The operation is an intuitive push/pull to extend or retract guard. The guard is formed of a clear material with a low profile that does not interfere with vision in use. The guard includes a leaf spring. The spring has a hemispherical protrusion on its underside that engages with a slot on the handle for positive engagement and an audible “click” when it seats. |
| US08875403B2 |
Coating removal tool used for optical fiber and method of removing coating
A coating removal tool used for an optical fiber includes: a base; and a pair of arm members extending in one direction from the base. Also, the arm members, each of which comprises an elastically deformable deformation portion on a base side, and an operation portion which is closer to a tip end side than the deformation portion, contact portions in a wedge shape are provided on the inner sides of operation portions, respectively, the inner sides opposing to each other so that tip edges of contact portions oppose to each other, and grip portions are provided outside the operation portions, respectively, and a coating of an optical fiber is configured to be removed by pulling out the optical fiber in a state where the tip edges of the contact portions are brought into contact with the optical fiber disposed along an extending direction of the arm members. |
| US08875400B2 |
Method for installing a collapsible mobile platform interior structure
A method for installing an interior structure for a mobile platform is provided. The method may involve carrying a lightweight collapsible frame through a man-door of a mobile platform while the collapsible frame is in a collapsed state. The collapsed frame may then be expanded to provide at least a portion of a load bearing frame for a mobile platform interior structure. A plurality of interchangeable panels may be attached to the collapsible frame to form interior surfaces of the mobile platform interior structure. |
| US08875399B2 |
Dental implant with interlocking and centering threads
A dental implant device for insertion into a bore defined in bone for use with a prosthetic tooth or dental appliance includes an abutment with a plurality of male keys disposed about the distal end of the abutment capable of being affixed to the prosthetic tooth or dental appliance, an implantable anchor having a proximal and distal end, a plurality of female keyways defined into the proximal end of the anchor, the keyways capable of coupling to the male keys of the abutment and thereby preventing relative rotation of the abutment and anchor; an interlocking thread helically defined around a longitudinal axis of the anchor, the thread being adapted to couple to the bore defined in the bone and means for coupling the abutment to the implant anchor. |
| US08875398B2 |
Dental prosthesis and method of its production utilizing standardized framework keys and matching premanufactured teeth
A system including a method and associated structures creates efficiencies in the manufacture of prosthetic tooth support frameworks. Pre-manufactured teeth with matching internal keys are used in the setup of a patient prototype. Each key includes a shaft, a cervical platform, a retention knob and preferably at least one channel for the expulsion of excess adhesive fluid. The cervical platforms are shaped to provide intimate contact with a base of their respective tooth. The same tooth/key pairs are then used to make a framework pattern from the setup positioning. The pattern can be cast or scanned for direct machining to produce the finished framework. |
| US08875394B2 |
Solar energy collecting modules and method for assembling the same
A solar energy collecting module includes a frame that is assembled without using screws. The peripheral frame components are joined together using locking links and one or more ribs extend along the back side of the solar panel and are coupled to opposed sides of the frame. The ribs are coupled to the frames by an edge key fastener that includes opposed first flanges and opposed second flanges, the first flanges separated from the second flanges by a gap. The edge key fastener is inserted into an opening formed in a side wall of a frame component and rotated such that the opposed first flanges are disposed behind the side wall and within the frame and the opposed second flanges are received in a corresponding cavity formed in each of opposed ends of the rib. |
| US08875393B2 |
Cooling channel formed in a wall
A method for forming at least one cooling channel in a wall which is cooled by cool air flowing in the channel is provided. The channel includes a hole and a diffusion portion, the hole opening out at one end into the inside surface of the wall, and at its other end into the diffusion portion where it forms an orifice. The diffusion portion flares around the orifice and opens out into the outside surface of the wall. The diffusion portion has a bottom whose front end is substantially plane, sloping, and extending in front of the orifice, and also has a margin extending behind, round the sides, and in front of the orifice, the margin joining the sides of the front end. |
| US08875391B2 |
Methods for making leads with radially-aligned segmented electrodes for electrical stimulation systems
A method of making a stimulation lead includes attaching multiple segmented electrodes to a carrier. Each of the segmented electrodes has a curved form extending over an arc in the range of 10 to 345 degrees. The method further includes attaching conductors to the segmented electrodes; forming the carrier into a cylinder with segmented electrodes disposed within the cylinder; molding a lead body around the segmented electrodes disposed on the carrier; and removing at least a portion of the carrier to separate the segmented electrodes. |
| US08875387B2 |
Coaxial cable compression tool
A tool for compressing a connector onto a coaxial cable includes a pair of gates, a plunger for compressing the connector against the gates and onto the coaxial cable, and an actuator in communication with the gates and the plunger. When the actuator is moved from a first position to a second position, it causes the gates to move from an open to a closed position in which they retain the coaxial cable and brace the connector, and the plunger moves from a first position to a second position in which it engages the connector to compress the connector against the gates and onto the coaxial cable. When the actuator is moved back to its first position, the gates move to their open position thereby releasing the coaxial cable and the plunger moves to its first position thereby disengaging from the connector. |
| US08875381B2 |
Method of manufacturing rotary electric machine
A coil strand is wound on an insulator to produce a divided core member, and then the divided core member is placed on a table. While the table rotates about its axis, ends of the coil strands are inserted into lead end holding grooves, which are defined in a surface of the insulator on an outer circumferential edge of a stator and which extend along a circumferential direction of the stator. |
| US08875379B2 |
Method of manufacturing a fluid flow measuring device
Methods of manufacturing a fluid flow measuring device are provided. In an embodiment of the present invention, shields are disposed to prevent or reduce circulating electrical currents from causing a voltage difference that would adversely affect the measured voltage difference between two adjacent electrodes. Groups of sensors, e.g., two or more, may be placed within the shield. The shields may have any cross-section shape. A magnetic field source is disposed proximate the electrodes such that the magnetic field source is oriented to generate a magnetic field substantially orthogonal to an imaginary line intersecting each pair of electrodes. A voltage measuring circuit is electrically coupled to the plurality of electrodes and configured to measure a voltage difference between each pair of electrodes. |
| US08875378B2 |
Tie bolt employing differential thread
A tie bolt for joining two parts together has a shaft. The shaft in turn has a primary thread for engaging a first part and a secondary thread for engaging a second part, wherein the primary thread and the secondary thread have different pitches. The tie bolt may be used to join together any two parts which are to be locked together to transmit torque. |
| US08875377B2 |
Apparatus and method for locating a nut on a blind side of a fastener hole
An apparatus and its method of use locate a first piece of a two piece fastener assembly, for example a nut of a nut and bolt fastener assembly on a blind side of a fastener hole in a structure wall where the fastener hole on the blind side of the wall is not manually accessible or not easily manually accessible. The apparatus then holds the nut in alignment with the fastener hole enabling the bolt of the fastener assembly to then be inserted through the fastener hole from the structure exterior and connected to the nut in the interior of the structure. |
| US08875371B2 |
Articulated conduit linkage system
An articulating conduit linkage system for maintaining a fluid connection between a fluid source and displaceable conduit that has been buried in a subsiding permeable body. A fluid source can supply a working fluid through a source outlet. A displaceable conduit can receive the working fluid through a conduit inlet, and be buried at a depth within a subsiding permeable body that is contained within a permeability control infrastructure. A plurality of articulating conduit segments can include, an outer conduit segment coupled to the source outlet, an inner conduit segment coupled to the conduit inlet, and at least one middle conduit segment coupled to the outer and inner segments. In the event of a subsidence, the plurality of articulating conduit segments are configured so the outer and inner conduit segments extend the conduit linkage system while maintaining a working fluid connection between the source outlet and the conduit inlet. |
| US08875369B2 |
Self-aligning plug removal and installation system and method
A plug removal and/or installation system 400, which has a structural framework configured to support a removal assembly and that, allows approximately one axis motion of the removal device. The removal device is configured with a plug attachment device that is configured to pass through a lower framework structural opening. The structural framework is configured to movably self align so that the removal device exerts approximately a linear force on a plug 300 along an approximately single axis 335 parallel to a plug central axis. |
| US08875364B2 |
Insulated pipe coupling
A pipe coupling apparatus for coupling together first and second opposing pipe flanges includes a number of gripping elements which are connected to the second pipe flange and are engageable with the first pipe flange. A locking element is displaceably arranged on the second pipe flange to lock the gripping elements to the first pipe flange when the pipe flanges are coupled together, and an insulating element extends around the second pipe flange and is connected to the locking element. The apparatus includes an actuating tool for displacing the first insulating element and thus the locking element. |
| US08875361B2 |
Reformed battery grids
A method of making a grid for a battery plate of a lead-acid battery. A substantially planar web is manufactured to include a plurality of spaced apart and interconnected wire segments, which at least partially define substantially planar surfaces, have a plurality of transverse lands, and interconnect at a plurality of nodes to define a plurality of open spaces between the wire segments. The web is reformed to change the cross-sectional shape of the wire segments. Other aspects may include simultaneously reducing the thickness of at least a portion of the web while reshaping the wire segments, and/or providing controlled surface roughness on at least one of the surfaces of the web to increase surface area of the grid and thereby promote adhesion of an electrochemically active material to the grid. |
| US08875358B2 |
Snap-hook
A hook forms a portion of an eye loop. A lever is pivotally movable relative to the hook. The lever forming a remaining portion of the eye loop. A thumb tab engages the lever and is positioned in an angled slot defined in a guide plate. The thumb tab is slidable in the angled slot, forming a release mechanism, such that the sliding movement of the thumb tab in the angled slot urges the lever to pivot relative to the hook to open said eye loop. The lever further includes an opening for receiving a protruding portion of the thumb tab, such that the lever can rotate to open the eye loop, essentially without sliding the thumb tab down in the slot of the hook. |
| US08875356B2 |
Mechanical and adhesive based reclosable fasteners
A hybrid reclosable fastener with both mechanical mating and adhesive reclosable mating elements and a method of forming the hybrid reclosable fastener is described herein. Mechanical mating elements include mating portions having cooperating coupling parts configured to provide mechanical mating along with adhesive mating elements including an adhesive material formed on the cooperating coupling parts configured to provide an adhesive mating. |
| US08875348B2 |
Friction hinge system
One aspect is a friction hinge system including a housing having an inner surface, an outer surface and defining a substantially cylindrical opening and a longitudinal slot. A torque element assembly is configured within the housing and configured to extend through the slot thereby securing the torque element assembly relative to the housing. |
| US08875347B2 |
Hinge employing a ratchet for an upholstery seat
A hinge and bracket system for a cushion seat back is provided. A bracket is attached to the side of a cushion seat back which is laying flat. The bracket is connected to a rotatable shaft, which in turn is connected to a toothed gear and a pawl. When the cushion seat back is raised upward, the toothed gear and an element of the pawl allow the cushion seat back to ratchet upwards, with the capability to lock the cushion seat back at any tooth. When the cushion seat back is raised above about 90 degrees, the pawl is forced to disengage from the toothed gear and the cushion seat back is unlocked and can be placed back in the original flat position. This hinge and bracket system may be employed in marine operations, especially for water skiing. |
| US08875345B2 |
Hinge
A hinge includes a hinge body having an operating chamber defining a first longitudinal axis; a pivot rotatably coupled to the hinge body to rotate a closing element around a second longitudinal axis between an open and a closed position; a plunger member having a substantially cylindrical body housed in the operating chamber for the separation thereof into a first and a second variable volume receptacles fluidically connected each other; a working fluid within the operating chamber to hydraulically damp the action of the plunger member; valve means to selectively control the flow of the working fluid between the first and the second receptacle; a shaft for operatively coupling the plunger member and the pivot. The cylindrical body and the shaft are mutually fastened by a fastening element. The shaft includes a first enlarged portion. The cylindrical body is put into fluidic communication the first and second receptacles. |
| US08875344B2 |
Door closer
A door closer, in particular a hinge door closer, including a locking function or free-swing function, having a door closer housing, an output shaft to be connected to a door, a piston assembly connected to the output shaft and guided in the door closer housing, a closer spring, a piston rod adapted to connect the piston assembly to the closer spring, a hydraulic lock compartment adapted to lock the closer spring, and in particular a free-swing assembly which is adapted to enable a translational motion of the piston assembly decoupled from the closer spring when the closer spring is locked. |
| US08875342B2 |
Bleed air valve of a surface cleaning apparatus
A surface cleaning apparatus comprises an air flow passage extending from a dirty air inlet to a clean air outlet. The surface cleaning apparatus further comprises a cyclone comprising a cyclone air outlet and positioned in the air flow passage downstream of the dirty air inlet. A suction motor is provided in the air flow passage downstream of the cyclone. A pre-motor filter is upstream of the suction motor and downstream of the cyclone. The pre-motor filter has an upstream side and a downstream side. The surface cleaning apparatus further comprises a bleed valve having an air inlet and an air outlet. The air outlet is positioned between the suction motor and the downstream side of the pre-motor filter and facing the downstream side of the pre-motor filter. |
| US08875340B2 |
Surface cleaning apparatus with enhanced operability
An upright surface cleaning apparatus comprises a floor cleaning head having a dirty air inlet and an upright section moveably mounted to the surface cleaning head. The surface cleaning apparatus also includes an air flow passage extending from the dirty air inlet to a clean air outlet. The air flow passage includes a conduit section. The surface cleaning apparatus also includes a suction motor and an air treatment member positioned in the air flow passage, provided in one of the floor cleaning head and the upright section. The conduit section has an inlet end and an outlet end. The inlet end is rotatably connected to the air flow passage about an axis parallel to air flow through the inlet end, and the outlet end is rotatably connected to the air flow passage about an axis parallel to air flow through the outlet end. |
| US08875338B2 |
Squeegee assembly for a floor cleaning machine
The present invention relates to an improved squeegee assembly. Some embodiments of the present invention are directed to a uniquely shaped squeegee configuration that has been found to remove liquids from a floor in an efficient manner. One particular embodiment utilizes a W-shaped squeegee. Other embodiments are directed to a squeegee fixation device. Yet other embodiments are directed toward a squeegee orientation device. Some embodiments are also directed toward a lifting mechanism and the connection between the squeegee assembly and the lifting mechanism. |
| US08875336B2 |
Fracture resistant brush head
This application relates to electric toothbrushes and in particular to a brush section for an electric toothbrush. The brush section may include static contact elements and movable contact elements to perform a cleaning operation. A head portion of the brush section is resistant to fractures or other material damage which might result from impacts, such as for example caused by dropping the toothbrush. It is structured to transmit forces from the impact away from an interior region of the head portion, to pass through the side portions of the head portion. |
| US08875334B1 |
Vacuum hose apparatus
A vacuum hose apparatus cleans a swimming pool without the use of a conventional pump. The apparatus includes a housing. A conduit extends through the housing between an inlet port and an outlet port. A suction port extends into the housing and is in environmental communication with the conduit wherein the conduit is configured for creating suction through the suction port as a fluid is passed from the inlet port to the outlet port. A bladder is positioned in the conduit between the inlet port and the suction port. A hole is positioned in the bladder wherein the bladder is configured for restricting the fluid as the fluid passes through the conduit increasing fluid pressure as the fluid passes through the hole. A supply hose is coupled to the inlet port and is configured for coupling to a fluid supply wherein fluid passes into the conduit through the inlet port. |
| US08875333B2 |
Washing machine performing shower rinsing and method of controlling the same
A method of controlling a washing machine to perform shower rinsing, including repeatedly performing a process to store water supplied to a washing tub in the washing tub and discharge the water from the washing tub while rotating the washing tub during the shower rinsing is described. In a state in which laundry clings to the washing tub by a spin-drying operation, it may be possible to rinse the laundry clinging to the upper part of the washing tub using water supplied to the washing tub rotating at the predetermined velocity, to rinse the laundry clinging to the lower part of the washing tub using the water stored in the washing tub according to the off operation of a drainage unit, and to periodically replace water necessary to rinse the laundry by discharging the used water from the washing tub according to the periodic operation of the drainage unit. |
| US08875331B2 |
Adaptive cushion method and apparatus for minimizing force concentrations on a human body
An adaptive cushion for reducing pressure on body parts of a person positioned on a chair or bed includes an overlay cushion having a plurality of individual air bladder cells, each having thereon a force sensor. The cushion includes a controller for inflating and deflating individual air bladder cells to air pressures that tend to reduce the interface pressures sensed by the force sensors. A pressure reduction method includes varying the inflation pressure in a first air bladder cell while measuring the sum of the interface pressures exerted on all or a plurality of the air bladder cells, re-pressurizing the first cell to that air pressure for which a minimum total interface pressure was obtained, repeating this process for the remaining air bladder cells. |
| US08875329B2 |
Arm tucking device for use with an operating room table
An arm tucking device for use with an operating room table. The arm tucking device includes a structural member and an elongate arm support member that is pivotally attached to the structural member. An angular locking mechanism adjustably fixes the angle between the arm support member and the structural member. The arm support member can be rotated toward the table from a first position to a second position. |
| US08875325B2 |
Graphic swaddling bedding set
A graphic swaddling bedding set that includes a bottom sheet for a mattress with a designated sleeping area located centrally and longitudinally thereon. Formed or attached to the designated sleep area is a selectively attached, pouch configured for containing the body of a child when longitudinally aligned therein when sleeping. The top edge of the pouch is detached thereby forming a top opening. Disposed over the bottom sheet and extending transversely over the pouch is a double wing-shaped top cover. Disposed between the top surface of the pouch and the bottom surface of the top cover is at least one hook and loop connector that connects the pouch and top cover. The top cover configured to extend over the sides of the mattress. Connectors or weights may be to hold the corners and lateral edges of the top cover pull the top cover tightly and hold it in place. |
| US08875324B2 |
Display systems for a mattress
Display systems for a mattress are described herein. The display systems can include a pocket configured to hold at least one pillow cover and a protective panel positioned on the top surface of a mattress. The protective panel can include an information display component. |
| US08875321B2 |
Multi-level sofa hinge for sofa convertible
A sofa hinge that provides easy conversion of a sofa convertible from one position to another while providing added safety by substantially reducing the risk of an injury to the operator's fingers. The sofa hinge includes a first and a second bracket rotatably connected to the sofa hinge at a bolt. The second bracket includes a semi-circular portion that covers a portion of the lever during the various positions of the sofa. The sofa hinge further includes a cover plate rotatably connected to the sofa hinge at the bolt. The cover plate includes a semi-circular portion and is adjacent to the semi-circular portion of the second bracket. The cover plate covers at least a portion of the semi-circular portion of the second bracket. By having the cover plate conceal the gear mechanism of the sofa hinge, the risk of injury to the operator's fingers is substantially reduced. |
| US08875318B2 |
Head band
Disclosed is a head band to assist a user in conveniently wearing head protective equipment on the head. The head band includes a first band part configured to surround the circumference of the head. The first band part includes first sections located at opposite lateral regions of the head and each provided with a coupling piece for coupling with the welding mask, a second section located on a front region of the head, the second section taking the form of an arc-shaped section having a predetermined radius of curvature when unrolled and being adapted to come into close contact at a predetermined gradient with the forehead, and third sections located at a rear region of the head, the third sections being connectable to each other to enable adjustment in the length of the third sections. The first band part comfortably comes into close contact with the forehead, providing wearer comfort. |
| US08875317B2 |
Speaker hat
The present disclosure provides a hat structure comprising a crown and various electronics. The electronics include a speaker located on the crown and defining a direction of sound propagation outwardly from a rear side of the crown. The speaker is configured to play a sound in the direction of sound propagation in response to a user input to a control switch. A hat structure of such a configuration may provide sound more clearly to the environment surrounding a user or wearer of the hat structure. |
| US08875316B2 |
Method of producing a collapsible hat
Methods of forming collapsible hats are provided. One method includes forming a front portion of the collapsible hat, and forming at least one band portion of the collapsible hat extending from the front portion. The method further includes forming a plurality of top portions of the collapsible hat extending from the at least one band portion. The plurality of top portions are formed to be coupled at a single point in a use configuration of the collapsible hat to form a top portion of the collapsible hat. The single point at which the plurality of top portions are configured to be coupled is proximate to a center of the top portion of the collapsible hat. |
| US08875314B1 |
Tool kit vest assembly
A tool kit vest assembly securely holds and provides easy access to tools, allows for adjustment of the vest, and provides ventilation to dissipate heat. The assembly includes a flexible panel having a first end and a second end. An aperture is positioned in the panel between the first end and the second end and between a pair of lateral sides of the panel. A dorsal portion of the panel extends from the aperture to the first end of the panel. A pocket is coupled to the panel. A flap is coupled to the pocket and is positionable between an opened position and a closed position. An interior fastener couples the flap to the pocket when the flap is in the closed position. An exterior fastener couples the flap to the panel when the flap is in the opened position. |
| US08875313B2 |
Hooded garment with hidden drawstring
A hooded garment comprises a torso portion, a hood portion attached to the torso portion and provided with a frontal face opening having a peripheral edge and a hood channel extending around at least a greater part of the peripheral edge, and a flexible drawstring extending through the hood channel. The drawstring is provided to adjust the effective perimeter of the peripheral edge of the face opening. The drawstring includes a middle portion slidably disposed in the hood channel, a first side portion extending from one side of the hood channel and a second side portion extending from another side of the hood channel. The first and second side portions are disposed outside the hood channel in the hood portion so that a greater part of each of the first and second side portions is hidden within or behind the torso portion. |
| US08881309B2 |
Systems for finding a lost transient storage device
Processes for identifying and recovering a lost transient storage device are provided. In some processes, information regarding the owner of the device is obtained. The device ownership information may be stored on a remote service with which the device is registered and/or may be stored on the device itself. In one process, the remote service provides the device with customized device-executable code when the device is registered. The device may also contain information regarding trusted systems. The process includes obtaining status information indicating whether a device is lost when the device is connected to a host system. In some processes, the status is determined by a remote service. In other processes, the status is determined by the device. If the device is lost then a device recovery plan is executed. Portions of a device recovery plan may be executed on the remote service, the host system, and/or the device. |
| US08881308B2 |
Method to enable development mode of a secure electronic control unit
A system and method for installing software on a secure controller without requiring the software to be properly signed. The method includes determining whether a by-pass flag has been set in the controller that identifies whether a file validation procedure is required to install the file and performing a pre-check operation to determine whether predetermined parameters of the file have been satisfied. The method also includes installing the file into a memory in the controller if the pre-check operation has been satisfied. The method further includes determining whether the file has a proper signature and indicating that the signature is proper if the by-pass flag is set and the file does not include a proper signature, and allowing the file to be installed if the signature has been indicated as being proper. |
| US08881307B2 |
Electronic file security management platform
According to some embodiments, an electronic file security management platform may receive a request from a user to access a first electronic file associated with a first application, such as a word processing document. A security characteristic associated with the user may be determined, and an encrypted version of the first electronic file may be decrypted in accordance with the security characteristic. The electronic file security management platform may then arrange for the user to access the first electronic file via the first application such that: (i) a first portion of the first electronic file is available to the user based on a first security requirement associated with the first portion and the security characteristic, and (ii) a second portion of the first electronic file is not available to the user based on a second security requirement associated with the second portion and the security characteristic. |
| US08881304B2 |
Method of controlled access to content
A method of controlled access to content, comprising joining an access sharing network, obtaining a content item from the access sharing network which requires access control data to enable playback, obtaining the access control data, determining from the access control data that a particular other device is authorized to play back the content item, and enabling playback of the content item in accordance with the access control data upon a positive determination that said other device is a member of said access sharing network. Preferably the access control data is used also during a predetermined period of time after making a determination that said other device has ceased to be a member of the access sharing network. Also a device (101) configured to carry out the method. |
| US08881303B2 |
System and method for executing web services
The subject embodiments provide a method such as a web service method. The method is used to execute two or more web services that have respective web user interfaces, and are operationally independent of each other. The method comprises: (i) executing the two or more web services under manual operation of a user; (ii) recording a script based on activities of the user in the execution; (iii) securing the recorded script; and (iv) executing the two or more web services by playing said secured script without individually executing them. The method is user friendly; highly customizable; and safe with respect to document retrieval and submission. |
| US08881300B2 |
Automated detection of flaws and incompatibility problems in information flow downgraders
Mechanisms for evaluating downgrader code in application code with regard to a target deployment environment. Downgrader code in the application code is identified. Based on an input string, an output string that the downgrader code outputs in response to receiving the input string is identified. One or more sets of illegal string patterns are retrieved. Each of the one or more sets of illegal string patterns is associated with a corresponding deployment environment. The illegal string patterns are string patterns that a downgrader identifies in the information flow for security purposes. A determination is made as to whether the downgrader code is compatible with the target deployment environment based on the one or more sets of illegal string patterns and the output string. An output indicative of the results of the determining is generated. |
| US08881296B2 |
Marking and obscuring sensitive values in traces
In one embodiment, a method for processing trace data is provided. The method generates trace data during execution of the target application and obtains criteria for identifying whether a value in the trace data is sensitive. An initial occurrence of a sensitive value in the trace data is identified based on the obtained criteria. The method then stores the sensitive value in a data structure accessible by an obscuring process. The obscuring process receives the trace data and obscures occurrences of the sensitive value in the trace data prior to providing the trace data for display. |
| US08881293B1 |
Static application security testing
Methods, systems, and computer-readable storage media for analyzing source code of an application. In some implementations, actions include determining a control flow graph of the application using the source code of the application; determining a plurality of source-sink pairs of exploitable data sources and exploitable data sinks; and determining, for each source-sink pair, whether the source-sink pair is potentially exploitable by: determining one or more conditions under which the invoking procedure passes the exploitable data source to the exploitable data sink of the invoked procedure; and determining, using the control flow graph, whether the conditions are met in at least one possible context of the application, and if so, determining that the source-sink pair is potentially exploitable. |
| US08881292B2 |
Evaluating whether data is safe or malicious
“Known bad” data, “known good” data, or both can be stored in a database. A technique for evaluating data compares the data to the “known bad” data, “known good” data, or both. Based on the comparison, the data may or may not be allowed to be processed by a mobile device. |
| US08881289B2 |
User behavioral risk assessment
A predetermined particular behavioral profile is identified associated with at least one particular user of a computing system, the particular behavioral profile identifying expected behavior of the at least one user within the computing system. Activities associated with use of the computing system by the particular user are identified and it is determined whether the identified activities correlate with the particular behavioral profile. Identifying an activity that deviates from the particular behavioral profile beyond a particular threshold triggers a risk event relating to the particular user. |
| US08881285B2 |
Method and system for content distribution network security
A content delivery system includes an upload module, a content delivery module, and a monitoring module. The upload module is configured to receive content from a content provider, detect content containing malicious software or proprietary information, and provide information about the content to a monitoring module. The content delivery module is configured to detect content containing malicious software or unauthorized changes, detect operational changes to the content delivery module, provide information about the content and the operational changes to the monitoring module, receive a request for the content from a client system, and provide the content to the client system. The monitoring module is configured to monitor a network for potentially malicious traffic, receive information from the content delivery module and the upload module, correlate the information and the potentially malicious traffic to identify a security event, and trigger a response to the security event. |
| US08881284B1 |
Method and system for secure network access using a virtual machine
A method and apparatus for secure network access using a virtual machine are disclosed. The method includes provisioning a virtual machine, downloading content to the virtual machine, and sending information from the virtual machine. The information that is sent from the virtual machine is configured to allow the display of output from the virtual machine. The output from the virtual machine is based on the content. The apparatus includes a number of virtual machine servers. Each of the virtual machine servers is configured to support at least one of a number of virtual machines. A first virtual machine of the virtual machines includes an antivirus module. The first virtual machine is configured to download content. The antivirus module is configured to detect a virus by virtue of being configured to analyze the content. |
| US08881282B1 |
Systems and methods for malware attack detection and identification
Exemplary systems and methods for malware attack detection and identification are provided. A malware detection and identification system can comprise a controller. The controller can comprise an analysis environment configured to transmit network data to a virtual machine, flag input values associated with the network data from untrusted sources, monitor the flagged input values within the virtual machine, identify an outcome of one or more instructions that manipulate the flagged input values, and determine if the outcome of the one or more instructions comprise an unauthorized activity. |
| US08881280B2 |
Device-specific content delivery
Devices of an individual's device-sphere recognize risky or undesirable behavior requested by devices outside of the device-sphere and allow the user to prevent the behavior. The user's decision is stored and used to protect all devices of the user's device-sphere from similar risky behavior from the outside devices. If the choice is made for all devices of the user's device-sphere, the choice is broadcast to other devices of the user's device-sphere such that other devices can benefit from the choice made by the user. |
| US08881278B2 |
System and method for detecting malicious content
A system and method for detecting malicious code in web content is described. A controller receives information, routes the information to the appropriate module and determines whether a user receives the web content or a report of a detection of malicious code. A vulnerability definition generator generates vulnerability definitions. A parser parses web content into static language constructions. A translation engine translates the static language constructions into trap rules, translates the web content into application programming interface (API) calls and determines whether the API calls trigger any of the trap rules. A sandbox engine generates an environment that mimics a browser and executes dynamic parts of the web content and determines whether a dynamic part triggers a trap rule. |
| US08881277B2 |
Method and systems for collecting addresses for remotely accessible information sources
A method and system are described for collecting addresses for remotely accessible information sources. Messages, such as emails, carried by a messaging network (N1) are intercepted before reaching a destined terminal. Addresses for remotely accessible information sources (i.e. URLs) are identified from the intercepted email messages. The messages are analyzed to be classified as either a first type of message (e.g. spam or virus messages) or a second, different, type of message. If the intercepted message is classified as the first spam/virus type then data indicative of the identified address (URL) is transmitted to a filtering system (100) which controls access to the remotely accessible information sources. As a result, addresses (URLs) are gleaned from transmitted messages such as spam e-mail and supplied to a filtering system (100) which controls access to the resources accessible at those addresses. |
| US08881276B2 |
Dynamically generated whitelist for high throughput intrusion prevention system (IPS) functionality
In one embodiment, detecting network data, retrieving a whitelist associated with the detected network data, and selectively applying an intrusion prevention policy based on the retrieved whitelist are provided. |
| US08881273B2 |
Device reputation management
A device reputation server recognizes malicious devices used in prior attacks and prevents further attacks by the malicious devices. Server computers require a digital fingerprint of any client devices prior to providing any service to such client devices. Logging of network activity include the digital fingerprint of the device perpetrating the attack. When an attack is detected or discovered, the attacked server reports the attack and the digital fingerprint of the perpetrating device to a device reputation server. The device reputation server uses the report to improve future assessments of the reputation of the device associated with the reported digital fingerprint. |
| US08881272B2 |
System and method for selecting and applying filters for intrusion protection system within a vulnerability management system
A system for controlling selection of filters for protecting against vulnerabilities of a computer network includes a vulnerability management system analyzes the computer network and determines network vulnerabilities for the computer network. The vulnerability management system is configured to receive real-time data on a status of filters protecting against vulnerabilities of the computer network. A database contains a pre-generated mapping of network vulnerabilities to filters for protecting against the network vulnerabilities. The vulnerability management system enables user control of filters for protecting against vulnerabilities of the computer network based upon the determined network vulnerabilities of the computer network, the pre-generated mapping of network vulnerabilities to the filters for protecting against the network vulnerabilities and the real-time data on the status of the filters. |
| US08881269B2 |
Device, method, and graphical user interface for integrating recognition of handwriting gestures with a screen reader
While an electronic device with a display and a touch-sensitive surface is in a screen reader accessibility mode, the device displays an application launcher screen including a plurality of application icons. A respective application icon corresponds to a respective application stored in the device. The device detects a sequence of one or more gestures on the touch-sensitive surface that correspond to one or more characters. A respective gesture that corresponds to a respective character is a single finger gesture that moves across the touch-sensitive surface along a respective path that corresponds to the respective character. The device determines whether the detected sequence of one or more gestures corresponds to a respective application icon of the plurality of application icons, and, in response to determining that the detected sequence of one or more gestures corresponds to the respective application icon, performs a predefined operation associated with the respective application icon. |