最新美国发明专利第2015-01-13期 - 专利汇|PatentHub专利检索|专利查询网|发明专利查询分析

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US08932725B2	Heat sealable film with linear tear properties A monoaxially oriented film including a propylene-based random copolymer and at least about 3 wt % of a low density polyethylene which is oriented at least about 2.5 times in one direction and exhibits excellent linear directional tear properties parallel to the orientation direction and excellent heat seal performance in terms of high heat seal strengths and low seal initiation temperature. This film formulation and orientation is suitable for pouch applications requiring an “easy-tear” linear tear feature and excellent hermetic seal properties.
US08932721B2	Laminates joined by polyurethane hot-melt adhesive and process for bonding plasticizer-containing plastics The present invention relates to laminates of a plasticizer-containing plastic, obtained by bonding by means of a moisture-reactive hot-melt adhesive which comprises at least one aldimine and at least one polyurethane polymer which contains isocyanate groups and is solid at room temperature. The bonded assembly is notable for improved adhesive, particularly following heat/moisture storage or alternating storage. Preferred embodiments of such laminates are bonded films or film-laminated supports, the film preferably being a pPVC film.
US08932720B2	Curing compositions for coating composite materials The present invention describes the use of a composition which can be cured below 40° C., a method of coating fiber/polymer composites, the preparation of curable compositions, and a modular system for preparing said compositions.
US08932718B2	Coating systems for cement composite articles A coating system, a method of coating a substrate, and a coated substrate (e.g., a coated cement fiberboard article) include one or more latex polymers, an aliphatic epoxy resin system, optionally a silicate additive, and optionally one or more olefinic compounds and an initiator. The coating system may be applied in one or more layers and may be applied to all the surfaces of the substrate (e.g., the front side, back side and edges of a board). The coated substrate may then be coated with other optional coatings, e.g., decorative or protective topcoats.
US08932717B2	Lipolytic enzyme for formation of anti-fingerprint coating, method of forming anti-fingerprint coating, substrate comprising the anti-fingerprint coating formed by the method, and product comprising the substrate Provided are a use of a lipolytic enzyme for forming anti-fingerprint coating, a method of forming anti-fingerprint coating including treating a substrate with a composition comprising the lipolytic enzyme, a substrate including the anti-fingerprint coating formed by the same method, and a product including the same. The anti-fingerprint coating can reduce contamination of display devices, appearances of electronic devices or building materials by fingerprints.
US08932711B2	Oil agent composition for acrylic precursor fibers for carbon fibers, acrylic precursor fiber bundle for carbon fibers, and method for producing the same An object of the present invention is to provide an oil agent composition which can improve the reduction in operability occurring when an oil agent composition containing a silicone compound is used as the main component and the reduction in the physical properties of the carbon fiber bundle occurring when a non-silicone-based oil agent composition is used. The oil agent composition for acrylic precursor fibers for carbon fibers of the present invention contains 1 to 10 wt % of a modified polydimethylsiloxane including a unit having a specific alkyl chain, at least one unit selected from the group consisting of a unit having a specific polyethylene oxide chain, a unit having a specific polyglycerin chain, and a unit having a specific polyether chain, and optionally a unit having a specific polydimethylsiloxyalkyl chain.
US08932708B2	Antimicrobial gas generating system Gas generating and releasing articles consisting essentially of a polymer and a gas generating solid dispersed therein are described. The article generates a controlled fast and followed by a slow release gas in response to moisture.
US08932707B2	Hard film and hard film coated tool A hard film excellent in abrasion resistance and heat resistance includes: a first film consisting of AlaCrb(SiC)cαdN, where α denotes one or more elements of groups IVa, Va, VIa (except Cr) of the periodic table, B, C, Si, and Y; a b, c, and d are atom ratios within ranges of 0.35≦a≦0.76, 0.12≦b≦0.43, 0.05≦c≦0.20, and 0≦d≦0.20, respectively; an atom ratio b/a of Cr to Al is within a range of 0.25≦b/a≦0.67; and a+b+c+d=1 is satisfied. The first film disposed on a top surface, the hard film having a total thickness Ttotal within a range of 0.5 μm to 15 μm with a thickness T1 of the first film or, if another film portion having the same film components as the first film is included, a thickness including the film thickness T1 and the another film portion accounting for 20% or more of the total thickness Ttotal.
US08932703B2	Electrostatic adsorbable sheet The present invention provides an electrostatic adsorbable sheet that can attach and display a printed material as it is on an object to be attached, as a poster, an advertisement or the like, has a high electrostatic adsorbability during display use, can be used for display over a long period of time with sufficient durability of the electrostatic adsorbability, has electrostatic adsorbability that is hardly affected by humidity, and can be easily peeled away after display use. In the electrostatic adsorbable sheet, since the electrostatic adsorbability is not exhibited externally before display use, troubles such as blocking of sheets themselves and attachment to a roll particularly in a printing step hardly occur, handlability is good, and the adhesiveness of ink is excellent, so that the sheet is compatible with a variety of printing methods.
US08932699B2	Crystalline substance, substrate, and method for producing crystalline substance The present invention provides a crystalline substance that has an uneven structure extending along the direction of a crystal axis. An aspect of the present invention provides a crystalline substance 1, which has a surface 10L that exposes an oxide crystal thereon and extends in a direction of a crystal axis of the oxide crystal, wherein the surface 10L has an uneven structure that is configured by faces 11L to 14L extending in at least three orientations along the crystal axis.
US08932697B2	Composite material assembly A composite material assembly (1) comprises a) a surface enhancing layer (5) comprising at least one layer of fibers, having a length to width aspect ratio of more than 5:1 and b) a structural layer (7) comprising at least one reinforcing fiber and at least one polymeric matrix.
US08932695B1	Basalt-based pressure vessel for gas storage and method for its production A pressure vessel includes a first (base or innermost) layer composed of a resin-impregnated woven sleeve with chopped basalt fibers assembled in the voids of the sleeve and impregnated with an epoxy resin. A second and third layer is composed of continuous basalt fiber filaments arranged in a helical pattern, with the helical angle of the second layer being not equal to that of the third layer. A fourth layer is composed of continuous basalt fibers arranged in a hoop pattern. The fifth (outermost) layer is composed of randomly oriented chopped basalt fibers impregnated with a resin matrix and compacted with the subsequent wound filaments at up to ten pounds of tension.
US08932693B2	Polyamide blend molding compound Polyamide blend molding compound, includes a polyamide blend content and at least one impact-resistant component, characterized in that the polyamide blend content includes the following polyamides: (A) 20 to 65% by weight of at least one semi-crystalline polyamide with an enthalpy of fusion >40 J/g and with an average of at least 8 C atoms per monomeric unit; (B) 8 to 25% by weight of at least one amorphous and/or microcrystalline polyamide, with the microcrystalline polyamide having an enthalpy of fusion in the range of 4 to 40 J/g, and (C) 1 to 20% by weight of at least one polyamide with an average of a maximum of 6 C atoms per monomeric unit. The impact-resistant component includes as follows: (D) 10 to 40% by weight of a polyamide elastomer which is composed of hard segments and soft segments, with the hard segments being based on lactams and/or amino-carboxylic acids, and (E) 0 to 35% by weight of a non-polyamide elastomer.
US08932687B2	Process for producing molded printed material, and molded printed material A process for producing a molded printed material is provided that includes (A) a step of forming an image on a support by an inkjet method using an ink composition comprising a polymerizable monomer, a colorant, and a polymerization initiator, (B) a step of forming a surface coating layer on the image by an inkjet method using a liquid composition comprising a polymerizable monomer and a polymerization initiator and comprising substantially no colorant, (C) a step of curing the image by irradiation with actinic radiation, (D) a step of curing the surface coating layer by irradiation with actinic radiation so as to obtain a printed material having the image and the surface coating layer cured on the support, and (E) a step of molding the printed material. There is also provided a molded printed material obtained by the process for producing a molded printed material.
US08932685B2	Methods for making cured sealants by actinic radiation and related compositions Disclosed are methods for making a cured sealant. The methods include depositing an uncured sealant composition on a substrate and exposing the uncured sealant composition to actinic radiation to provide a cured sealant. The uncured sealant composition includes a thiol-terminated polythioether and a polyene comprising a polyvinyl ether and/or a polyallyl compound. Related sealant compositions are also disclosed.
US08932676B2	Method for producing gas barrier plastic molded body Provided is a method for producing a gas barrier plastic molded body by forming a gas barrier thin film which is substantially colorless and has gas barrier properties, on the surface of a plastic molded body by a heating element CVD method using only raw material gases that are highly safe. The method for producing a gas barrier plastic molded body according to the present invention is a method for producing a gas barrier plastic molded body (90) by forming a gas barrier thin film (92) on the surface of a plastic molded body (91), the method comprising: a film-forming process in which the gas barrier thin film (92) is formed on the surface of the plastic molded body by a heating element CVD method, using an organosilane-based compound represented by formula (Chemical Formula 1) as a main raw material gas, using an oxidizing gas as an additive gas, and using a heating element containing tantalum (Ta) as a main constituent element: H3Si—Cn—X (Chemical Formula 1) wherein in Chemical Formula 1, n represents 2 or 3; and X represents SiH3, H, or NH2.
US08932675B2	Methods for depositing silicon carbo-nitride film Classes of liquid aminosilanes have been found which allow for the production of silicon carbo-nitride films of the general formula SixCyNz. These aminosilanes, in contrast, to some of the precursors employed heretofore, are liquid at room temperature and pressure allowing for convenient handling. In addition, the invention relates to a process for producing such films.The classes of compounds are generally represented by the formulas: and mixtures thereof, wherein R and R1 in the formulas represent aliphatic groups typically having from 2 to about 10 carbon atoms, e.g., alkyl, cycloalkyl with R and R1 in formula A also being combinable into a cyclic group, and R2 representing a single bond, (CH2)n, a ring, or SiH2.
US08932673B2	Methods of fabricating large-area graphene A method for fabricating large-area, high-quality Graphene product. Specifically, the fabrication method uses a seed layer of exfoliated Graphene in combination with a substrate and a catalyst metal layer and introduces Carbon atoms to the Graphene seed, causing growth of high-quality Graphene product. The method of the invention combines some steps of current mechanical exfoliation techniques with other steps of the CVD process and adds a new technique to the fabrication method involving seed-based catalyst of large-area Graphene product growth.
US08932667B2	Hard magnet with cap and seed layers and data storage device read/write head incorporating the same A method including forming a multilayer structure. The multilayer structure includes a seed layer comprising a first component selected from the group consisting of a Pt-group metal, Fe, Mn, Ir and Co. The multilayer structure also includes an intermediate layer comprising the first component and a second component selected from the group consisting of a Pt-group metal, Fe, Mn, Ir and Co. The second component is different than the first component. The multilayer structure further includes a cap layer comprising the first component. The method further includes heating the multilayer structure to an annealing temperature to cause a phase transformation of the intermediate layer. Also a hard magnet including a seed layer comprising a first component selected from the group consisting of a Pt-group metal, Fe, Mn, Ir and Co. The hard magnet also includes a cap layer comprising the first component. The hard magnet further includes an intermediate layer between the seed layer and the cap layer. The intermediate layer includes the first component and a second component selected from the group consisting of a Pt-group metal, Fe, Mn, Ir and Co. The first component is different than the second component. Additionally, a read/write head including the hard magnet.
US08932666B2	Method and apparatus for manufacturing active-matrix organic el display, active matrix organic el display, method for manufacturing liquid crystal array, liquid crystal array, method and apparatus for manufacturing color filter substrate, and color filter substrate A method is for producing an active matrix organic EL display element by an inkjet method to eject droplets (12) of a liquid via an ejection hole of a nozzle so as to form an organic EL layer. The liquid contains an organic EL layer material. An electrostatic attraction type inkjet apparatus (15) is used whose ejection hole (1b) has a diameter smaller than a diameter of the droplets (12). The droplets are ejected from the nozzle of the electrostatic attraction type inkjet apparatus (15) in such a manner that each of the droplets is 1 pl or less in amount. With this arrangement, the landed droplet dries quickly, and movement of the landed droplet is restricted. This makes it possible to form an organic EL layer accurately with low cost.
US08932665B2	Method for preventing the crystallisation of pharmaceuticals in a polymer film The invention relates to a method for preventing the crystallization of a pharmaceutical in a polymer film, wherein the solvent-containing coating compound, which comprises a matrix-forming polymer or polymer mixture and at least one pharmaceutical and is spread to produce the polymer film, is temporarily dried at temperatures that is at least 10° C. above the melting temperature of the pharmaceutical contained in the coating compound. The maximum temperature is thus higher than that which is required for mere drying and obviates the need for an additional, time-consuming and expensive work step.
US08932663B2	Pyrocarbon coated bone implants Methods for forming bone implants for the repair of the ends of bones at orthopedic joints, which implants have a Young's modulus close to that of human cortical bone. Substrates of dense isotropic graphite are coated overall with hard, microporous, isotropic pyrocarbon of specific character such that it can be polished to serve as an articular surface and can also securely receive an anchoring first metal layer through PVD. The first layer has a character such that, by thermal spraying a second biocompatible metal layer thereupon, fusion occurs and thereby anchors an outermost layer that is formed with a network of randomly interconnected pores and a surface character of peaks and valleys designed to promote enhanced appositional growth of cortical bone at the interface therewith.
US08932660B2	Gelatin substitute product and uses in food preparation The invention relates to a gelatin substitution product, characterized in that it contains essentially a vegetable fat, in particular in that it contains essentially cocoa butter.Application to the production of culinary confectionery preparations.
US08932656B1	Oil blend for skin treatment A blend of oils for treating or preventing skin ailments, such as diaper rash and eczema and for soothing the skin. The blend includes virgin coconut oil, extra virgin olive oil, jojoba oil, calendula oil, vitamin E oil, tea tree oil, German chamomile extract. The vitamin E is essentially free from corn oil and soy oil.
US08932655B2	Antiseptic teat dip microemulsion An aqueous antiseptic composition for eliminating microorganisms that cause Bovine mastitis in dairy animals is disclosed. The composition comprises about 10 to 50% by volume of lemongrass oil and at least one solubilizing agent for solubilizing the lemongrass oil. The composition also comprises about 10 to 30% by volume of a carrier oil carrying the components of the composition and about 0.5 to 2% by volume of an electrolyte for providing conductivity for the composition. The composition further comprises an organic acid for adjusting the pH level of the composition and an antioxidant.
US08932653B2	Cleanser compositions and methods for using the same The present invention is directed to anti-microbial cleanser compositions comprising linalool, hinokitiol and dipropylene glycol. The present invention further provides methods for using these compositions to maintain eyelid hygiene, to treat an ocular disorder or to clean a skin surface. The cleanser compositions of the present invention can be in the form of a foam, gel or liquid.
US08932652B2	Microalgae-derived compositions for improving the health and appearance of skin Provided herein are microalgal skin care compositions and methods of improving the health and appearance of skin. Also provided are methods of using polysaccharides for applications such as topical personal care products, cosmetics, and wrinkle reduction compositions. The invention also provides novel decolorized microalgal compositions useful for improving the health and appearance of skin. The invention also includes insoluble polysaccharide particles for application to human skin.
US08932643B2	Placental tissue grafts Described herein are tissue grafts derived from the placenta. The grafts are composed of at least one layer of amnion tissue where the epithelium layer has been substantially removed in order to expose the basement layer to host cells. By removing the epithelium layer, cells from the host can more readily interact with the cell-adhesion bio-active factors located onto top and within of the basement membrane. Also described herein are methods for making and using the tissue grafts. The laminin structure of amnion tissue is nearly identical to that of native human tissue such as, for example, oral mucosa tissue. This includes high level of laminin-5, a cell adhesion bio-active factor show to bind gingival epithelia-cells, found throughout upper portions of the basement membrane.
US08932641B2	Dried amnion and method for drying treatment of amnion The present invention provides a dried amnion which is dried with maintaining tissues of a raw amnion and can be easily stored for a prolonged period of time. An amnion which is dried with maintaining cells and tissues of a raw amnion can be produced by repeating a pressure-reducing operation and a pressure-recovery operation several times, the pressure-reducing operation comprising continuously heating a raw amnion placed in a treatment vessel by a far-infrared heater provided in the treatment vessel and reducing the pressure of the inside of the treatment vessel, and the pressure-recovery operation comprising recovering the reduced pressure of the inside of the treatment vessel with heating the amnion by microwaves irradiated from a microwave heating apparatus provided outside of the treatment vessel, and the amnion is characterized by retaining basement membranes and connective tissues which are constituents of the raw amnion.
US08932635B2	Pharmaceutical compositions of hydrophobic surface-modified active substance microparticles for inhalation The invention provides microparticles for use in a pharmaceutical composition for pulmonary administration, each microparticle comprising a particle of an active substance having, on its surface, particles of a hydrophobic material suitable for delaying the dissolution of the active substance. The invention also provides a method for making the microparticles.
US08932634B2	Hydrocolloid carrier beads with inert filler material This invention discloses carrier beads comprising a hydrocolloid polymer comprising at least one inert filler material, wherein the at least one filler material provides improved properties including increased mechanical strength and/or reduced porosity relative to a bead without said at least one filler. The beads are useful per se or for delivery of active agents. Methods for preparation of the beads and the uses thereof are described particularly for controlling the rate of release an active agent from said bead.
US08932633B2	Polysaccharide microparticles containing biological agents: their preparation and applications A method of preparing polysaccharide glassy microparticles which are less than 10 μum in diameter and contain structurally delicate agents, such as proteins, peptides, gene materials, vaccines, antibodies, viruses and liposomes using low-temperature aqueous-aqueous emulsification (free of polyelectrolytes) and freezing-induced phase separation. When delicate agents are added to a polysaccharide-PEG two phase system followed by homogenization (or other shear adding process), the agents partition into the polysaccharide dispersed phase preferentially. These processes help to avoid aggregation of proteins caused by interaction with charged polyelectrolytes used for stabilizing the polysaccharide dispersed phase in our previously reported aqueous-aqueous emulsion. When this system is frozen and lyophilized, glassy particles less than 10 μm in diameter containing delicate agents can be formed. These fine polysaccharide particles protect proteins within their hydrophilic glassy matrix, and can therefore be easily suspended in hydrophobic polymer solutions and formulated to various forms of sustained release devices such microsphere, sheets, fibers, coating layers, and scaffolds. The particles can also be dispersed in hydrophilic gels to improve releasing kinetics and to deliver vaccines and antibodies for immune therapy.
US08932632B2	Adhesives and sealants nanotechnology Adhesives and sealants comprising submicron particles and nanomaterials, methods of making such adhesives and sealants, and methods of using such adhesives and sealants are provided.
US08932629B2	Co-processed microcrystalline cellulose and sugar alcohol as an excipient for tablet formulations A particulate co-processed composition comprising microcrystalline cellulose and at least one sugar alcohol is disclosed. A preferred sugar alcohol is mannitol. The composition has an improved compactability profile, lubricant sensitivity, and ejection profile compared to microcrystalline cellulose and the at least one sugar alcohol, either alone or in combination as a simple dry blend, in the preparation of solid dosage formulations, such as tablets. Tablets comprising the particulate co-processed composition, an active, and, optionally, one or more other excipients, and method for their preparation, are also disclosed.
US08932627B2	Liposomal compositions of glucocorticoid and glucocorticoid derivatives The present invention provides pharmaceutical compositions comprising a glucocorticoid or glucocorticoid derivative stably encapsulated in a liposome. The glucocorticoid or glucocorticoid derivative is selected from an amphipathic weak base glucocorticoid or glucocorticoid derivative having a pKa equal or below 11 and a logD at pH 7 in the range between −2.5 and 1.5; or an amphipathic weak acid GC or GC derivative having a pKa above 3.5 and a logD at pH 7 in the range between −2.5 and 1.5. The therapeutic effect of the pharmaceutical composition of the invention was exhibited in vivo with appropriate models of multiple sclerosis and cancer.
US08932624B2	Bio-film resistant surfaces The present invention relates to methods and compositions for rendering a surface resistant to bio-film formation by a combination of an alkanediol and an antimicrobial agent (and, optionally, an organic hydroxy acid). The invention provides for compositions which may be used to render surfaces bio-film resistant, articles having bio-film resistant surfaces, and methods for their preparation. The present invention may be advantageously applied to medical articles as well as articles used in non-medical contexts, such as child care or food preparation.
US08932621B2	Implantable film/mesh composite The present disclosure relates to implantable medical devices which include at least one mesh and at least one film attached to the mesh along different portions of the mesh creating at least one aperture between the mesh and the film.
US08932620B2	Three-dimensional scaffolds for tissue engineering made by processing complex extracts of natural extracellular matrices Methods of making a biologically active three-dimensional scaffold capable of supporting growth and differentiation of a cell are described. Biologically active three-dimensional scaffold made by the methods of the invention and an engineered tissue made from the scaffolds are described. Fibers of desired porosity can be obtained from non-structural ECM by lyophilization and/or electrospinning which can be useful for numerous tissue engineering applications requiring complex scaffolds, such as wound healing, artificial skin (burns), soft tissue replacement/repair and spinal cord injury.
US08932617B2	Methods for treating or preventing restenosis and other vascular proliferative disorders Described herein is the use of ribonucleotide reductase inhibitors in the prevention or treatment of restenosis and other vascular proliferative disorders.
US08932615B2	Implantable devices formed on non-fouling methacrylate or acrylate polymers Implantable devices formed of or coated with a material that includes a polymer having a non-fouling acrylate or methacrylate polymer are provided. The implantable device can be used for treating or preventing a disorder such as atherosclerosis, thrombosis, restenosis, hemorrhage, vascular dissection or perforation, vascular aneurysm, vulnerable plaque, chronic total occlusion, patent foramen ovale, claudication, anastomotic proliferation for vein and artificial grafts, bile duct obstruction, ureter obstruction, tumor obstruction, or combinations thereof.
US08932614B2	Incorporation of particulate ceragenins in polymers A composite that includes a polymeric material having a void structure and particulate ceragenin material (i.e., ceragenin particles) associated with the void structure. The average particle size of the ceragenin particles in the composite is in a range from 5 nm to 20 μm, 50 nm to 10 μm, 100 nm to 5 μm, or 1 μm to 10 μm. The composite has a high loading of ceragenin particles (e.g., about 10% to about 25%, by weight). The composite has good polymer stability, the ability to release ceragenins from the ceragenin particles disposed in the composite over a sustained period of time at a characteristic elution rate, and the ability to kill large numbers of bacteria and other susceptible microbes over the sustained period of time.
US08932609B2	Flagellin related polypeptides and uses thereof The use of flagellin and flagellin related polypeptides for the protection of mammals from the effects of apoptosis is described.
US08932608B2	Tuberculosis vaccine and method of using same Provided is a pharmaceutical composition that includes one or more inactivated Mycobacterium spp., which are preferably inactivated using gamma irradiation, and which is than formulated for mucosal or pulmonary delivery to a subject. The pharmaceutical compositions are useful for preventing or treating mycobacterium-associated infections in a subject, including a human subject.
US08932606B2	Chimeric pestivirus with insertion in 3′ nontranslated region (3′NTR) with stable replication and rnase resistance The construction of a chimeric Pestivirus by the identification of selected regions in the 3′NTR of the viral RNA genome is described where additional RNA sequences can be stably inserted. These sequence insertions in the viral RNA genome were stable in replication and capable of forming infectious, RNase resistant virus particles. This chimeric Pestivirus with a 3′NTR insertion can be utilized as a quality control material in analytical assays for RNA targets, including external, internal controls, quantitative standards in PCR and NAT nucleic acid assays.
US08932599B2	Synthetic gene construct coding for an HIV1 GAG and use thereof for obtaining anti-HIV-1 vaccines The invention relates to a synthetic gene coding for the Gag protein of the human immunodeficiency virus HIV-1. Said gene may optionally be fused with one or more other HIV sequences. The invention may notably be used within the scope of obtaining anti-HIV vaccines.
US08932597B2	Human M2e peptide immunogens The present invention provides novel peptide immunogens comprising influenza virus matrix 2 protein epitopes and related compositions and methods. The present invention relates to a composition comprising a peptide immunogen useful for the prevention and treatment of an influenza virus-mediated disease. The invention also relates to vaccines, immunogenic products and immunogenic compositions containing the peptide immunogens.
US08932592B2	Compositions and methods for treating inflammatory disorders The present invention features compositions and methods related to humanized antibodies and FKN-binding fragments thereof that bind fractalkine.
US08932591B2	Formulation of human antibodies for treating TNF-α associated disorders A liquid aqueous pharmaceutical formulation is described which has a high protein concentration, a pH of between about 4 and about 8, and enhanced stability.
US08932590B2	Method of adsorbing transforming growth factor β An adsorbent for immunosuppressive substance, which can adsorb an excessive immunosuppressive substance directly from a body fluid, can carry out extracorporeal perfusion safely and can be utilized in treatment of cancer. The excessive immunosuppressive substance may be involved in growth of cancer cells. The adsorbent for immunosuppressive substance includes a water-insoluble carrier and a hydrophilic amino group immobilized to the water-insoluble carrier. An extracorporeal perfusion column contains the adsorbent of the invention. A method for treating cancer carries out extracorporeal perfusion using the extracorporeal perfusion column. A method of adsorbing the transforming growth factor β which is combined with another protein, includes adsorbing the transforming growth factor β and protein on an adsorbent containing a water-insoluble carrier to which quaternary ammonium groups each having 3 to 18 carbon atoms per one nitrogen atom are attached, and having a specific surface area of 0.1 m2 or more per gram.
US08932588B2	Treatment of cancer involving mutated KRAS or BRAF genes The present invention provides a method of treating cancer in a subject wherein the cancer comprises mutated KRAS or BRAF genes. The method comprises administering to the subject an effective amount of an antibody or antigen binding fragment thereof wherein the antibody or antigen binding fragment thereof competes with SC104 for binding to the human colon cancer cell line Colo205.
US08932583B2	Scaffolds for cell transplantation A device that includes a scaffold composition and a bioactive composition with the bioactive composition being incorporated into or coated onto the scaffold composition such that the scaffold composition and/or a bioactive composition controls egress of a resident cell or progeny thereof. The devices mediate active recruitment, modification, and release of host cells from the material.
US08932582B2	Cell compositions and uses thereof The present invention relates to blood serum and dermally-derived cells for use in tissue repair. Particularly it relates to blood serum and collagen producing cells for use in the treatment of connective tissue injuries. Preferably the cells and the blood serum are autologous and the connective tissue to be repaired is a tendon or ligament. Also provided is a method of treating connective tissue injuries by the administration of blood serum and collagen producing cells directly to the site of injury. It also relates to the use of blood serum and muscle-like cells for use in the treatment of muscle injury, particularly skeletal muscle injury.
US08932578B2	Cell and enzyme compositions for modulating ale acids, cholesterol and triglycerides The invention relates to immobilized or encapsulated enzyme and/or cells to lower bile acids and cholesterol. The invention also relates to methods of quantitatively measuring bile acids. The invention provides a composition for decreasing the amount of a target compound in the gastrointestinal tract of an animal, comprising: a) a biologically active agent which decreases the amount of the target compound; b) a retainer for retaining the biologically active agent by contacting the agent to limit movement of the agent; and c) a carrier.
US08932574B2	Stable liquid interferon beta formulations Liquid interferon compositions having a pH between 4.0 and 7.2 are described. The compositions comprise interferon-beta and a stabilizing agent at between about 0.3% and 5% by weight which is an amino acid selected from the group consisting of acidic amino acids, arginine and glycine. If needed, salt is added to provide sufficient ionic strength. The liquid composition has not been previously lyophilized or previously cavitated. The liquid is preferably contained within a vessel having at least one surface in contract with the liquid that is coated with a material inert to adsorption of interferon-beta. A kit for parenteral administration of a liquid interferon formulation and a method for stabilizing liquid interferon compositions are also described.
US08932573B2	Mascara compositions comprising a semicrystalline polymer, a silicone elastomer, and a hydrophilic gelling agent Disclosed herein are cosmetic compositions for making up and/or coating keratinous fibers, said composition comprising: (a) at least one semicrystalline polymer; (b) at least one silicone elastomer blend comprising at least one silicone cross-polymer dispersed in at least one oil; (c) at least one hydrophilic gelling agent; and (d) an aqueous phase. Also disclosed herein are methods for making up and/or enhancing the appearance of keratinous fibers comprising applying said compositions to the keratinous fibers.
US08932571B2	Skin care product The invention relates to a skin-care product comprising at least one component selected from the group of heat shock protein from alfalfa and heat shock protein hydrolysate from alfalfa. The invention further relates to the use of shock protein from alfalfa or hydrolysate thereof for slowing down the aging of the skin and/or for rejuvenating the skin.
US08932568B2	Hair conditioning composition Provided is a low odor hair conditioning composition which is free of oily and greasy feel upon finish, and can impart good manageability and moisturized feel. Specifically provided is a hair conditioning composition including a component (A): a compound represented by a general formula (1) R1O—(PO)n/(EO)m—R2 (1), where R1 represents a straight or branched, alkyl or alkenyl group having 8 to 12 carbon atoms, PO represents a propyleneoxy group, EO represents an ethyleneoxy group, an average addition mole number “n” represents a number of 1.5 to 3.0, an average addition mole number “m” represents a number of 0 to 1.0, and R2 represents a hydrogen atom or a methyl group; and a component (B): a surfactant other than the component (A), wherein a content of R1OH, where R1 represents a straight or branched, alkyl or alkenyl group having 8 to 12 carbon atoms, is 80 ppm or less.
US08932567B2	Method of enhancing hair growth Methods and compositions for stimulating the growth of hair are disclosed wherein said compositions include bimatoprost and minoxidil in a vehicle for topical application to the skin of a mammal, e.g. a human, whereby the combination of bimatoprost and minoxidil produces a faster onset of hair growth in humans or other mammals and wherein said composition brings about a synergestic result of faster onset of hair growth as compared to compositions comprising bimatoprost and minoxidil, alone.
US08932566B2	Composition comprising a polyol and a oil-soluble polar modified polymer The invention relates to a composition comprising a oil-soluble polar modified polymer and a hyperbranched polyol.
US08932554B2	Method to produce light-emitting nano-particles of diamond Method to produce diamonds containing Nitrogen-Vacancy centers from diamonds grown by a high pressure and high temperature process and containing isolated substitutional nitrogen, comprising: —Irradiating (12) said diamonds by an electron beam such that the irradiation dose is comprised between 1017 and 1019 electrons per square centimeter; —annealing (14) the irradiated diamonds in vacuum or in a inert atmosphere at a temperature above 700° C. and for at least 1 hour; characterized in that said electron beam has an acceleration energy above 7 MeV.
US08932551B2	C-11 cyanide production system A method for providing 11C-labeled cyanides from 11C labeled oxides in a target gas stream retrieved from an irradiated high pressure gaseous target containing O2 is provided, wherein 11C labeled oxides are reduced with H2 in the presence of a nickel catalyst under a pressure and a temperature sufficient to form a product stream comprising at least about 95% 11CH4 , the 11CH4 is then combined with an excess of NH3 in a carrier/reaction stream flowing at an accelerated velocity and the combined 11CH4 carrier/reaction stream is then contacted with a platinum (Pt) catalyst particulate supported on a substantially-chemically-nonreactive heat-stable support at a temperature of at least about 900 ° C., whereby a product stream comprising at least about 60%H11CN is provided in less than 10 minutes from retrieval of the 11C labeled oxide.
US08932550B2	Methods for pulling a multicrystalline silicon ingot from a silicon melt Methods for producing muticrystalline silicon ingots by use of a Czochralski-type crystal puller and pulling assemblies that include a plurality of seed crystals for pulling multicrystalline silicon ingots.
US08932548B2	Silicon oxide and negative electrode material for lithium-ion secondary battery A silicon oxide for use as a negative electrode active material of a lithium-ion secondary battery is characterized by: a g-value measured by an ESR spectrometer is in the range of not less than 2.0020 to not more than 2.0050; and given that A, B, and C are the area intensities of peaks near 420 cm−1, 490 cm−1 and 520 cm−1 respectively in a Raman spectrum measured by a Raman spectroscopy, A/B is not less than 0.5 and C/B is not more than 2. The lithium-ion secondary battery has excellent cycle characteristic and initial efficiency in addition to high capacity. The silicon oxide preferably has a spin density in the range of not less than 1×1017 spins/g to not more than 5×1019 spins/g. A negative electrode material for the lithium-ion secondary battery contains not less than 20% by mass of this silicon oxide as a negative electrode active material.
US08932547B2	Modular plant for removal of pollutants from flue gases produced by industrial processes The invention relates to a so-called zero emission ‘AST-CNR/ITM system’ modular plant for removal of pollutants from flue gases produced by industrial processes. The plant comprises prefabricated modular elements with programmed and automatic operation, easy to mount and assemble on site without undergoing expensive plant stoppage. Each module or ‘reaction tower’ comprises a plurality of sections vertically arranged on top of one another, which carry out the following functions: Removal of particulate matter with treatment and removal of chemical pollutants, such as heavy metals, chlorides, fluorides Treatment and removal of SOx Treatment and removal of NOx Capture of CO2 Production of hydrogen Production of methanol. The various sections may be combined according to the requirements of the plant and of the flue gases to be treated.
US08932543B2	Automated staining system and reaction chamber An apparatus including a reagent cartridge and a reaction chamber, the reagent cartridge having a reagent capsule removably positioned therein for dispensing of a reagent onto the reaction chamber. A system including a linearly translatable mounting assembly having a plurality of mounting stations dimensioned to receive at least one fluid dispensing cartridge, a linearly translatable bulk reagent dispensing assembly having a plurality of bulk reagent dispensing nozzles coupled thereto and a receiving assembly positioned beneath the mounting assembly and the bulk reagent dispensing assembly, the receiving assembly including a plurality of reaction stations. A method including determining an inventory of an automated sample processing system, downloading a processing protocol from a central controller to the automated sample processing system, operating the automated sample processing system based on the processing protocol and independently of the central controller and dispensing a reagent from the automated sample processing system.
US08932541B2	Pipettor including compliant coupling Systems and methods for processing and analyzing samples are disclosed. The system may process samples, such as biological fluids, using assay cartridges which can be processed at different processing locations. In some cases, the system can be used for PCR processing. The different processing locations may include a preparation location where samples can be prepared and an analysis location where samples can be analyzed. To assist with the preparation of samples, the system may also include a number of processing stations which may include processing lanes. During the analysis of samples, in some cases, thermal cycler modules and an appropriate optical detection system can be used to detect the presence or absence of certain nucleic acid sequences in the samples. The system can be used to accurately and rapidly process samples.
US08932540B2	Device and method for transporting magnetic or magnetisable beads A device for transporting magnetic or magnetizable beads over a transport surface includes a chamber holding magnetic or magnetizable beads in a fluid, a transport element including the transport surface within the chamber, and a current wire structure including at least two sets of meandering current wires arranged on a side of the transport element opposite to the transport surface. The at least two sets are displaced with respect to each other in at least two directions. A switching unit switches currents individually applied to the sets of current wires according to a current driving scheme resulting in a transport of the beads over the transport surface.
US08932539B2	Saliva sample collection systems Saliva sample collection systems are configured with special attention to ease-of-use for the unskilled user and safe transport and delivery by a conventional delivery services such as Federal Express. A sealed cavity is formed by tight coupling of two primary elements: a receiving vessel element and a sealing cap element. The receiving vessel has integrated therewith: a standing means, a fill-line window, a funnel system, a knife, a threadset, and containment tube among others. A complementary cap element includes a cooperating threadset, label receiving surface, gripping surface, seal means and reservoir with piercable thin-film membrane. These two primary elements may be accommodated in an application-specific shipping container which support two shipping modes whereby the system may be shipped safely to and from a donor user each way in a different shipping mode.
US08932537B2	Portable tester for detection explosives, drugs and chemicals based on created color bar codes for analytes A portable tester to detect one or more analytes from explosives, drugs, or household chemicals, comprising: a plurality of chemical disposable, detachable reagent reservoirs storing reagents to induce a series of color reactions, wherein developed color depends on sequences of applied reagents to respective pads on a support base, reaction times and temperatures on said pad to create one or more color bar codes for a specific analyte. The tester comprises a piezoelectric dispenser coupled to each respective reservoir to dispense a mist of reagent onto respective test pads to increase sensitivity and reduce reaction heat and time; wherein piezoelectric dispenser is processor controlled to control dispensing time and volume in each step. The tester also includes a programmable digital camera system for imaging and data collection at specific times, temperature, and applied reagents for analysis by the processor, and a processor to interpret resulting changes in color codes of the test pads throughout the analysis occurring at specific times, temperature, and applied reagent and to identify or characterize the type explosive or class of explosives, clandestine drugs, or household chemicals.
US08932536B2	Reactor packing A structured packing for insertion in a reactor having an inlet, an outlet, a wall and an axis. The packing comprises a first part, i.e., a reactor core and a second part, i.e., a reactor casing. The second part is free to move relative to the first part. The first part and the second part are inserted in the reactor such that the first part is located proximate the axis and the second part is located between the first part and the reactor wall. In general, the second part will be in contact with the reactor wall.
US08932534B2	Porous pyrolysis reactor materials and methods In one aspect, the invention includes a reactor apparatus for pyrolyzing a hydrocarbon feedstock, said apparatus including: a reactor component comprising a refractory material in oxide form, the refractory material having a melting point of no less than 2060° C. and which remains in oxide form when exposed to a gas having carbon partial pressure of 10−22 bar and oxygen partial pressure of 10−10 bar, at a temperature of 1200° C.; wherein said refractory material has no less than 4 vol % formed porosity, measured at 20° C., based upon the bulk volume of said refractory material. In another embodiment, the refractory material has total porosity in the range of from 4 to 60 vol %.
US08932530B2	Reducing agent aqueous solution mixing device and exhaust gas post-treatment device A reducing agent aqueous solution mixing device includes an exhaust pipe, an injector, an inner pipe and a tubular guide member. The exhaust pipe includes an elbow part having a curved portion, and a linear part disposed downstream of the elbow part. The injector is disposed outside of the curved portion, and injects a reducing agent aqueous solution into the elbow part towards the linear part. The inner pipe is disposed downstream of the injector within the exhaust pipe. The inner pipe has an inlet portion opening facing the injector and an outer peripheral surface spaced apart from the inner wall of the linear part. The inner pipe allows the exhaust gas to flow through the inside of the inner pipe and along the outer periphery of the inner pipe. The tubular guide member directs the reducing agent aqueous solution injected from the injector to the inner pipe.
US08932528B2	Installation and method for producing active carbon The Invention relates to an apparatus or installation for producing active carbon, in particular by carbonization and subsequent activation of polymeric, organic, preferably sulphonated, starting materials, wherein the apparatus or installation comprises optionally a drying device for drying the starting materials, optionally a sulphonating device, arranged downstream of the optionally present drying device, for sulphonating and/or peptizing the optionally previously dried starting materials, a carbonizing device, arranged downstream of the optionally present drying device and/or the optionally present sulphonating device, for carbonizing the optionally previously dried and/or sulphonated and/or peptized starting materials, as well as an activating device, arranged downstream of the carbonizing device, for activating the starting materials previously carbonized in the carbonizing device, wherein the apparatus or installation also comprises at least one exhaust-gas treatment device for treating the exhaust gases formed in the carbonizing device and/or in the activating device during operation.
US08932526B2	Apparatus for generating perfume for vehicles Provided is an apparatus for generating perfume for vehicles, and more particularly, an apparatus for generating perfume for vehicles capable of simplifying a configuration and increasing sealing ability to stably control perfume, by easily controlling a flow of air passing through a first perfume generating part and a second perfume generating part using a single rotating shaft.
US08932519B2	Solder alloy A Sn—Ag—Cu based solder alloy capable of increasing the connection reliability of a solder joint when evaluated in a high temperature environment is provided. The alloy has an alloy composition consisting essentially of, in mass percent, Ag: 1.0-5.0%, Cu: 0.1-1.0%, Sb: 0.005-0.025%, Fe: 0.005-0.015%, and a remainder of Sn. The Fe content in mass percent is 0.006-0.014%. The Sb content in mass percent is 0.007-0.023%. Preferably Fe:Sb as a mass ratio is 20:80-60:40. The total content of Fe and Sb is preferably 0.012-0.032%.
US08932518B2	Mold and facecoat compositions The disclosure relates generally to mold compositions and methods of molding and the articles so molded. More specifically, the disclosure relates to mold compositions, intrinsic facecoat compositions, and methods for casting titanium-containing articles, and the titanium-containing articles so molded.
US08932516B2	Aluminum porous body and fabrication method of same It is an objective of the present invention to provide an aluminum porous body which is formed of a pure aluminum and/or aluminum alloy base material and has excellent sinterability and high dimensional accuracy without employing metal stamping. There is provided an aluminum porous body having a relative density of from 5 to 80% with respect to the theoretical density of pure aluminum, in which the aluminum porous body contains 50 mass % or more of aluminum (Al) and from 0.001 to 5 mass % of at least one selected from chlorine (Cl), sodium (Na), potassium (K), fluorine (F), and barium (Ba). It is preferred that the aluminum porous body further contains from 0.1 to 20 mass % of at least one selected from carbon (C), silicon carbide (SiC), iron (II) oxide (FeO), iron (III) oxide (Fe2O3), and iron (II,III) oxide (Fe3O4).
US08932515B2	Crust breaker aluminum bath detection system A crust breaker bath detection system includes a cylinder defining a piston chamber. A piston is slidably displaced within the piston chamber by a pressurized fluid. A crust breaker rod connected to the piston is displaced through a crust layer into a bath having a bath voltage when the piston is displaced in the cylinder in a piston drive direction. A controller is in electrical communication with the cylinder. A conductive member is retained by and in electrical contact with the piston and in continuous contact with the cylinder. The conductive member defines a portion of a bath detection circuit including the crust breaker rod, the piston, the conductive member, the cylinder and the controller. The bath detection circuit is closed when the crust breaker rod contacts the bath such that the bath voltage is communicated to the controller by the bath detection circuit.
US08932510B2	Methods for laser cutting glass substrates A method for cutting a glass article from a strengthened glass substrate having a surface compression layer and a tensile layer includes forming an edge defect in the surface compression layer on a first edge of the strengthened glass substrate. The method further includes propagating a through vent through the surface compression and tensile layers at the edge defect. The through vent precedes a region of separation along a cut line between the glass article and the strengthened glass substrate.
US08932504B2	Method of making absorbent structure having three-dimensional topography A method of making an absorbent structure having a three-dimensional topography includes placing at least a portion of the absorbent structure between opposed mold surfaces. At least one of the mold surfaces has a three-dimensional topography. The three-dimensional topography of the mold surface is imparted onto the absorbent structure so that the absorbent structure has a three-dimensional topography corresponding to the three-dimensional topography of the mold surface.
US08932500B2	Device and method for manufacturing stator of ultra high speed induction motor An apparatus and method for fabricating a stator of a super-high-speed induction motor, in which the process of loading a stator on which a coil is completely wound into a mold, injecting a functional resin into a chamber, converting the inside of the chamber into the vacuum state, and pressurizing the inside of the chamber is carried out so that bubbles are removed from the inside and the surface of the functional resin and the functional resin is completely filled between the inner circumference of the stator and the inner circumference of the mold, thereby maximizing heat conductivity and insulation, preventing the stator from deteriorating, and improving the performance and endurance of the super-high-speed induction motor. In addition, since the vacuum step and the pressurizing step include heating the mold, in the vacuum step, the viscosity of the functional resin can be decreased so that the process of removing gas inside the stator can be efficiently performed and the solidification time of the functional resin can be decreased so that the working time can be decreased, and in the pressurizing step, the molding that is under pressing force is completely solidified. Furthermore, the height of the receiving section of the mold and the height of the central shaft are adjusted so that the winding section of the stator is completely immersed, and the chamber is provided with a vacuum tube and a pressurizing tube in order to facilitate the step of injecting the functional resin and the pressuring step. The method includes (a) loading a stator having a coil, which is completely wound on a core, into a mold, (b) injecting a functional resin into the mold so that a winding section of the stator is immersed, (c) inserting the mold, into which the functional resin is injected, into a closed chamber, (d) removing bubbles by converting the inside of the chamber into a vacuum state through a vacuum tube, which is provided in the chamber, so that the functional resin is filled across the entire portions of the stator, including the core and the coil, and between the inner circumference of the stator and the inner circumference of the mold, and (e) removing bubbles by increasing the gas pressure in the chamber, so that the functional resin is filled across the entire portions of the stator, including the core and the coil, and between the inner circumference of the stator and the inner circumference of the mold.
US08932497B2	Fire retardant coatings and bodies, and methods of use Fire retardant coating systems and solid body cast systems comprise a first part comprising at least one ingredient having NCO functionality; and a second part comprising at least one ingredient having an active hydrogen functionality that is co-reactive with the NCO, wherein the first part and the second part are formulated so that when the parts are mixed together they form a cured coating or a solid body. The coating system or solid body cast system comprises a first fire retardant ingredient that is a phosphorus-based compound, a second fire retardant ingredient that is an intumescent material, and a third fire retardant ingredient that is a brominated ingredient. Methods for preparing a fire retardant coating or solid body are also described.
US08932496B2	Aqueous dispersions of silver particles A method of preparing an aqueous dispersion comprising silver particles of mean diameter from 0.5 to 25 nm by weight and an aqueous carrier liquid, including the steps of i) providing a mixture comprising at least one silver salt, aqueous carrier liquid and a stabiliser for the particles ii) contacting the mixture with a non-ionic or covalent reducing agent to form a reaction mixture iii) causing the at least one silver salt to react with the reducing agent to form a dispersion comprising silver particles and acid wherein step iii) is partly or completely performed in the presence of anion exchange resin whereby the acid is exchanged for a hydroxide ion from the resin and/or is sorbed by the resin.
US08932495B1	Transparent conductor materials and processes for forming such materials Embodiments of the invention generally provide hydrogen-doped and/or fluorine-doped transparent conducting oxide (TCO) materials and processes for forming such doped TCO materials. In one embodiment, a method for fabricating a doped TCO on a substrate surface includes forming a TCO material on a substrate, exposing the TCO material to a hydrogen plasma while forming a hydrogen-doped TCO material during an atmospheric pressure plasma (APP) process, wherein the hydrogen-doped TCO material contains atomic hydrogen at a concentration within a range from about 1 at % (atomic percent) to about 30 at %, and exposing the hydrogen-doped TCO material to a thermal annealing process. In another embodiment, the method includes exposing the TCO material to a fluorine plasma while forming a fluorine-doped TCO material during the APP process, wherein the fluorine-doped TCO material contains atomic fluorine at a concentration within a range from about 1 at % to about 30 at %.
US08932493B2	Conductive polymer, conductive polymer composition, conductive polymer organic film, and organic photoelectric device including the same A conductive polymer, a conductive polymer composition, a conductive polymer organic film, and an organic photoelectric device including the same, the conductive polymer including repeating units represented by the following Chemical Formula 1, repeating units represented by the following Chemical Formula 2, and repeating units represented by the following Chemical Formula 3:
US08932489B2	Colloidal nanocrystal ensembles with narrow linewidth band gap photoluminescence and methods of synthesizing colloidal semiconductor nanocrystals A method of synthesizing colloidal semiconductor nanocrystals involves contacting a source of at least one semi-conductor cation element (Group 11-14, more preferably Group 12-14, more preferably 12 or 14, more preferably Cd, Zn, Hg or Pb, most preferably Cd) with a source of at least one Group 15, or 16 element in the presence of a ligand forming compound containing a carboxylic acid moiety in a reaction medium comprising a solvent that is substantially noncoordinating with respect to the at least one cation, the ligand forming compound and the source of at least one cation element having a molar ratio of 1:1 or less. The cation element source is preferably bonded to two low carbon acids. Some of the low carbon acids are substituted with the ligand forming compound to produce a cation precursor that is more soluble in the noncoordinating solvent. The method produces novel ensembles of colloidal semiconductor nanocrystals that have narrow linewidth absorption and bandgap photoluminescence spectra indicating that the colloidal semiconductor nanocrystals are of substantially a single size. The single size families are produced for CdSe, CdTe, CdS, CdSeTe, and CdP.
US08932487B2	Strontium cerate luminescent material and the preparation method and application thereof Disclosed is a strontium cerate luminescent material having a chemical formula of Sr2CeO4:xM and comprising the luminescent material Sr2CeO4 and metal nanoparticle M, and the preparation method thereof, where M is at least one of Ag, Au, Pt and Pd, and x is a molar ratio of M to the luminescent material Sr2CeO4 and 0
US08932483B2	Low naphthenic liquid crystalline polymer composition A thermoplastic composition that comprises a low-naphthenic, thermotropic liquid crystalline polymer blended with a flow modifier is provided. The flow modifier is an aromatic carboxylic acid that contains one or more carboxyl functional groups. Without intending to be limited by theory, it is believed that the functional groups can react with the polymer chain to shorten its length and thus reduce melt viscosity. It is also believed that such acids can combine smaller chains of the polymer together after they have been cut during processing. This helps maintain the mechanical properties of the composition even after its melt viscosity has been reduced. As a result of the present invention, the melt viscosity of the thermoplastic composition is generally low enough so that it can readily flow into the cavity of a mold having small dimensions.
US08932482B2	Lead-acid batteries and pastes therefor A paste suitable for a negative plate of a lead-acid battery, the paste comprising lead oxide and carbon black, wherein the carbon black has the following properties: (a) a BET surface area between about 100 and about 2100 m2/g; and (b) an oil adsorption number (OAN) in the range of about 35 to about 360 cc/100 g, provided that the oil absorption number is less than the 0.14×the BET surface area+65.
US08932475B2	Methods of patterning a conductor on a substrate A method of patterning a conductor on a substrate includes providing an inked elastomeric stamp inked with self-assembled monolayer-forming molecules and having a relief pattern with raised features. Then the raised features of the inked stamp contact a metal-coated visible light transparent substrate. Then the metal is etched to form an electrically conductive micropattern corresponding to the raised features of the inked stamp on the visible light transparent substrate.
US08932474B1	Imprinted multi-layer micro structure method A method of making an imprinted micro-wire structure includes providing a substrate and first, second, and third different stamps. A curable first layer is provided in relation to a substrate and imprinted with first, second, and third micro-channels using the first stamp. First, second, and third micro-wires are formed in the first, second, and third micro-channels. A curable second layer is provided adjacent to the first layer and imprinted with first and second connecting micro-channels. First and second connecting micro-wires are formed in the first and second connecting micro-channels. A curable third layer is provided and imprinted with a bridge micro-channel and a bridge micro-wire formed in the bridge micro-channel. The first and second micro-wires, the first and second connecting micro-wires, and the bridge micro-wire are electrically connected and electrically isolated from the third micro-wire.
US08932471B2	Method of recovering and concentrating an aqueous N-methylmorpholine-N-oxide (NMMO) solution This disclosure relates to a method of recovering and concentrating an aqueous N-methylmorpholine-N-oxide (NMMO) solution.
US08932464B2	Static dissipater for a fuel filter assembly Static dissipaters for eliminating static electricity in fuel filter assemblies and fuel filter assemblies including static dissipaters are provided. The static dissipaters are in the form of a static dissipation sleeve that is disposed around the outside of a fuel pump within a fuel filter assembly. The static dissipation sleeve has one or more protrusion portions that protrude radially from the surface of the static dissipation sleeve and provide contacts for static dissipation of static electricity.
US08932461B2	Microfluidic sieve valves Sieve valves for use in microfluidic device are provided. The valves are useful for impeding the flow of particles, such as chromatography beads or cells, in a microfluidic channel while allowing liquid solution to pass through the valve. The valves find particular use in making microfluidic chromatography modules.
US08932454B2	Mesoporous Y hydrocracking catalyst and associated hydrocracking processes This invention relates to the composition, method of making and use of a hydrocracking catalyst that is comprised of a new Y zeolite which exhibits an exceptionally low small mesoporous peak around the 40 Å (angstrom) range as determined by nitrogen adsorption measurements. The hydrocracking catalysts of invention exhibit improved distillate yield and selectivity as well as improved conversions at lower temperatures than conventional hydrocracking catalysts containing Y zeolites. The hydrocracking catalysts herein are particularly useful in the hydrocracking processes as disclosed herein, particularly for conversion of heavy hydrocarbon feedstocks such as gas oils and vacuum tower bottoms and an associated maximization and/or improved selectivity of the distillate yield obtained from such hydrocracking processes.
US08932453B2	Hydroprocessing process with improved catalyst activity This invention relates to a hydroprocessing process with improved catalyst activity when hydroprocessing petroleum based feedstock or an oxygen containing feedstock. This invention also relates to a hydrotreating process with improved hydrodesulfurization (HDS) activity of a hydrotreating catalyst such as Co/Mo by co-feeding carbon monoxide or its precursors. Such inventive process confirms that adding a small amount of CO to H2 in a hydrotreater for a few days leads to an increase in product sulfur due to the inhibition of CO on the hydrotreating catalyst such as Co/Mo. However, it has been unexpectedly found that after the CO was removed from the hydrogen stream, product sulfur levels decreased to values below they were before CO addition which means the activity of the hydrotreating catalyst increased after the CO treatment.
US08932451B2	Integrated crude refining with reduced coke formation Methods are provided for processing crude oil feeds with reduced or minimized energy usage, reduced or minimized numbers of processing steps, improved allocation of hydrogen, and reduced or minimized formation of low value products. The methods reduce or minimize the use of vacuum distillation, and in many aspects reduce or minimize the use of both atmospheric and vacuum distillation. The methods also reduce or minimize the use of coking and fluid catalytic cracking processes.
US08932450B2	Decontamination of asphaltic heavy oil and bitumen A process and apparatus to remove asphaltenic contaminants from bitumen, heavy oil or residue to produce lower viscosity petroleum products and high purity asphaltenes.
US08932447B2	Ex-vivo multi-dimensional system for the separation and isolation of cells, vesicles, nanoparticles, and biomarkers Devices and techniques are described that involve a combination of multidimensional electrokinetic, dielectrophoretic, electrophoretic and fluidic forces and effects for separating cells, nanovesicles, nanoparticulates and biomarkers (DNA, RNA, antibodies, proteins) in high conductance (ionic) strength biological samples and buffers. In disclosed embodiments, a combination of continuous and/or pulsed dielectrophoretic (DEP) forces, continuous and/or pulsed field DC electrophoretic forces, microelectrophoresis and controlled fluidics are utilized with arrays of electrodes. In particular, the use of chambered DEP devices and of a properly scaled relatively larger electrode array devices that combines fluid, electrophoretic and DEP forces enables both larger and/or clinically relevant volumes of blood, serum, plasma or other samples to be more directly, rapidly and efficiently analyzed. The invention enables the creation of “seamless” sample-to-answer diagnostic systems and devices. The devices and techniques described can also carry out the assisted self-assembly of molecules, polymers, nanocomponents and mesoscale entities into three dimensional higher order structures.
US08932445B2	Systems and methods for improved stability of electrochemical sensors Methods for determining a concentration of an analyte in a sample, and the devices and systems used in conjunction with the same, are provided herein. In one exemplary embodiment of a method for determining a concentration of an analyte in a sample, a sample including an analyte is provided in a sample analyzing device having a working and a counter electrode. An electric potential is applied between the electrodes and a measurement of a parameter correlating to changes in a physical property of the sample analyzing device is calculated. A concentration of the analyte in view of the parameter correlating to a change in the physical property can then be determined Systems and devices that take advantage of the parameter correlating to changes in a physical property to make analyte concentration determinations are also provided.
US08932439B2	Electrolytic both for recovering valuable metals, with increased contact specific surface area The present invention includes an electrolytic bath with increased contact specific surface area configured to effectively electrodeposit valuable metals from waste water, wherein the specific surface area of an electrode contacting the waste water is maximized to increase electrolysis efficiency, and electrolysis space is increased to enable effective electrodeposition and recovery of valuable metals from low-concentration waste water. The electrolytic bath comprises: a housing having an inlet, outlet, gas discharge hole, and inner space; an anode group comprising a plurality of anodes installed in the inner space; a cathode group installed between the anodes to form two electrolysis spaces, and cathode wire threads placed on one side of each electrolysis spaces. As waste water flows through the inlet and electrolysis spaces and then is discharged through the outlet, metal is electrodeposited onto the cathode group and gas is discharged through the gas discharge hole.
US08932434B2	Dividing wall distillation column for producing high purity acrylic acid and fractional distillation method using the same There are provided a dividing wall distillation column for producing high-purity acrylic acid, and a fractional distillation method using the same. The dividing wall distillation column includes a condenser, a reboiler and a main column having a dividing wall. Here, the main column is divided into a column-top zone, an upper feed zone, an upper outflow zone, a lower feed zone, a lower outflow zone and a column-bottom zone. Accordingly, since one distillation column can be used to realize the same effect as that obtained from the use of two distillation columns, the dividing wall distillation column can have an effect of reducing the costs of equipment to produce high-purity acrylic acid, as well as an energy-reducing effect, compared to a conventional process system.
US08932427B2	Compaction process of a piece of composite materials It comprises applying a mould release agent on a compaction tool (1), carrying out its curing and applying a layer with adhesive properties (2) on the mould release agent. It is characterized in that it also comprises extending an aerator blanket (4) along the layer (2) with dimensions larger than the adhesive layer (2), extending a membrane with resilient properties (5) on the entire surface of the tool (1) by applying vacuum to the membrane (5) for compacting the adhesive layer. This method reduces the number of stages required to perform the compaction and avoids the generation of waste materials thus reducing the cost of the process.
US08932420B2	Method for transferring and placing beads for tyres, device for carrying out such a method and spacer to be used in such a method and/or device Method for transferring and placing beads for tires, providing: a bead storage unit in which a number of beads are vertically stacked placing spacers between them, a collection unit for empty spacers, a tire building machine for receiving the beads thereon, a bead retaining provided with engagement jaws that are arranged at equal angular distance in a circumferential direction on the bead retaining means, wherein the engagement jaws are driven or withdrawn in radial direction, a spacer retaining means for picking up and retaining a spacer, and arranging the bead retaining means and the spacer retaining means on a common transfer means. The spacer retaining means acts in a radial direction and is provided with at least two spacer engagement jaws that are arranged circumferentially at equal angular.
US08932418B2	Hybrid joining method for lap joints The invention relates to a method of producing an overlapping hybrid connection between two or more components. A hybrid connection in the meaning of the invention is characterized by adhesively bonding and producing mechanical spot joint connections between two joining parts, the adhesive layer being arranged in the region of the mechanical joint connections. The method according to the invention is carried out in the following method steps: purposefully removing material from one or more of the components or purposefully applying material to one or more of the components in the region of the lap joint to be produced to form one or more projections, applying adhesive to one or more of the components in the region of the lap joint to be produced, overlapping the components, pressing the components together in the region of the lap joint to press the projections against the overlapping component(s) and producing one or more mechanical spot joint connections on the projections in the overlap region. The method according to the invention enables a desired uniform adhesive material thickness to be obtained reliably by using the projection as spacers and also enables a mechanical spot joint connection to be produced without curing the adhesive. The invention further relates to a component comprising projections for obtaining a defined adhesive layer thickness and the use of the method and the component in an aircraft.
US08932417B1	Methods and systems for manufacturing propellants Methods and systems for mixing propellant formulations are disclosed herein. In one embodiment, a method of mixing a solid propellant formulation includes placing a first component (e.g., a polymer or fuel) and a second component (e.g., an oxidizer of suitable particle size) in a mix vessel. The method further includes mixing the first and second components together by rotating the mix vessel about a first axis and, during at least a portion of the vessel rotation, revolving the vessel about a second axis spaced apart from the first axis. In one embodiment, the first axis can be a vessel spin axis, and the second axis can be spaced apart from the first axis so that the vessel revolves about the second axis in a planetary manner. In another embodiment, the vessel can rotate about the first axis in a first direction while revolving about the second axis in a second direction, opposite to the first direction.
US08932416B2	High-strength and high-ductility die-quenched parts and method of manufacturing the same A high-strength die-quenched part 1 is formed by heating a high-strength steel sheet 11 up to an austenite region, hot stamping and cooling inside a mold, and its microstructure has the martensite wherein carbide particles 2 are finely dispersed over an entire region including prior-austenite grain boundaries. It is desirable that the prior-austenite grain size in the microstructure of the high-strength steel sheet, which is a base material, be 10 μm or smaller. The high-strength die-quenched part has high-strength and high-ductility thanks to its martensite.
US08932415B2	Welding metal having excellent low-temperature toughness and drop-weight characteristics Provided is a welding metal in which a predetermined chemical component composition is satisfied, the A value as specified by formula (1) is 3.8% to 9.0%, and the surface area percentage of carbide having a circle-equivalent diameter of 0.20 μm or greater in the welding metal is 4.0% or less. A value=0.8×[C]−0.05×[Si]+0.5×[Mn]+0.5×[Cu]+[Ni]−0.5×[Mo]+0.2×[Cr] (1) (Provided that [C], [Si], [Mn], [Cu], [Ni], [Mo] and [Cr] are the C, Si, Mn, Cu, Ni, Mo and Cr content (by mass percent), respectively) The welding metal is useful as a material for a pressure vessel of a nuclear power plant as the welding metal is high in strength and has good low-temperature toughness and drop-weight characteristics.
US08932413B2	Apparatus with control linkage for re-suspending solids in fluid in a tank An apparatus for cleaning a tank that is to be installed below the fill line of a tank includes a housing sealably attached to a sidewall of a tank, and a tubing having a flexible output end positioned within the housing such that the output end of the tubing extends past the sidewall of the tank. A control linkage is slidably positioned within the housing. The control linkage is connected to the flexible output end of the tubing. The control linkage is movable between an extended position and a retracted position. The orientation of the flexible output end of the tubing is changed as the control linkage is moved between positions, such that the direction of fluid flowing out of the flexible output end of the tubing is also changed. A seal is provided for sealing the tubing and the control linkage within the housing.
US08932411B2	Method for controlling zonal washing in a dishwasher A method for controlling the operation of an automatic dishwasher including receiving input for a zonal wash cycle from a user interface to a controller indicating a selection of a first cleaning cycle corresponding to a first wash zone and a second cleaning cycle, different from the first cleaning cycle, corresponding to a second wash zone, and implementing a zonal wash cycle by implementing each of the first and second cleaning cycles during a single cycle of operation of the dishwasher to define the zonal wash cycle.
US08932409B2	Supercritical fluid cleaning of banknotes and secure documents A method and apparatus for cleaning a stack of secure instruments is disclosed. Each secure instrument includes a substrate, visual data and a security feature. The method and apparatus include exposing the stack to a supercritical fluid at a temperature and a pressure and for a duration sufficient to clean each secure instrument and not compromise each security feature and each visual data, and maintaining a securing mechanism on the stack during exposure of the stack to the supercritical fluid such that cleaning each secure instrument includes one or more substances from each secure instrument into the supercritical fluid.
US08932404B2	Method and device for producing semicrystalline polymer material The present invention relates to a method for producing semicrystalline polymer material, wherein the predominantly amorphous raw polymer material, in particular granules, to be treated is introduced into a crystallization reactor (1) and is partially crystallized there by being heated, but without melting, and subsequently the semicrystalline polymer material obtained in such a way is removed from the crystallization reactor (1) and at least part of said semicrystalline polymer material is diverted and mixed back into the crystallization reactor (1) in order to reduce the adhesive tendency of the polymer material. According to the invention, the diverted semicrystalline polymer material is combined and mixed with the raw polymer material before being mixed back into the crystallization reactor (1), and the mixture is then introduced into the crystallization reactor (1).
US08932402B2	Construction materials binders Hydraulic binder comprising: at least one first calcium aluminosilicate derivative with a fineness of less than 6000 Blaine, slag microparticles with a fineness of greater than or equal to 6000 Blaine in an amount of between 1 and 35% of the total weight of the binder, preferably of between 5 and 15%, at least one source of calcium sulphate and at least one base in an amount of less than or equal to 1% of the total weight of the binder.
US08932398B2	Gallotannic compounds for lithographic printing plate coating compositions There is provided a gallotannic compound, a method of producing a gallotannic compound, a lithographic printing plate coating composition, a lithographic printing plate, a method of producing a lithographic printing plate and a method of printing.
US08932386B2	Zeolite adsorbent having an organic binder The present invention relates to an agglomerated zeolite adsorbent containing at least one polymer matrix that is greatly laden with at least one zeolite adsorbent. The invention also relates to the method for preparing such an adsorbent and to the uses thereof, particularly as an adsorbent of moisture, odors, volatile organic components, and the like.
US08932383B2	Compositions and methods of making and using the compositions for improving soil and/or plant growth and improved soil, improved plants, and/or improved seeds A composition comprising at least one nutrient element, wherein the at least one nutrient element possesses a relative energy-state value greater than the relative energy-state value of the at least one nutrient element in a preexisting state, the composition being effective, perhaps because of the greater energy-state value, to improve the ability of a soil, when combined with the composition, to support plant growth better than the soil, when not combined with the composition. Also a composition comprising at least one nutrient element, wherein the composition possesses an energy spectrum more positive than the energy spectrum of the composition in a preexisting state, the composition being effective, perhaps because of the more positive energy spectrum, to improve the ability of a soil, when combined with the composition, to support plant growth better than the soil, when not combined with the composition. Methods of making and using the same for improving soil, plants, plant growth, seeds, and/or plant products, including quality of plant products, are also disclosed, as well as improved soil, seeds, including quality of seeds, plants, and/or plant products, including quality of plant product.
US08932375B2	Method for supplying an entrained-flow gasification reactor with carbonaceous fuels With a method for supplying an entrained-flow gasification reactor with carbonaceous fuel for the production of a gas that contains CO and H2 and flue ash under pressure and at a temperature above the melting point of the ash, wherein the resulting gas is passed to further treatment stages, particularly at least one synthesis stage, the waste gas that is derived from the subsequent treatment stage and still contains hydrocarbons and/or hydrogen is used for pneumatic conveying of the fuel into the entrained-flow gasification reactor.
US08932374B2	Method and equipment for producing hydrogen from biomass A method and equipment for producing hydrogen from biomass includes the stages of drying of the biomass, gasification of the biomass, and water gas shift reaction. The method further includes: subjecting the outgoing gases (CO2, N2 and H2O) from the gasification stage to a first heat exchange, wherein the outgoing gases are cooled; evaporating water with heat from outgoing gases; subjecting the steam to heat exchange wherein the steam is heated; reducing the steam to synthesis gas, wherein the synthesis gas is cooled and the air supply to the gasification is heated; separating the synthesis gas into a hydrogen stream and a carbon monoxide stream; reacting the carbon monoxide with water steam to carbon monoxide and hydrogen; separating also these secondary streams into a hydrogen stream and a carbon monoxide stream; and bringing together the primary and secondary hydrogen stream into a product stream.
US08932373B2	Method and device for using oxygen in the steam reforming of biomass The invention relates to a device for using oxygen for the thermochemical gasification of biomass in at least one fluidized-bed reactor, a heating system being located in the fluidized bed of said reactor and the fluidized-bed reactor being heated by the at least partial oxidation of a combustible gas using oxygen.
US08932371B2	Process for preparing a fluidizable biomass-catalyst composite material A process is disclosed for preparing fluidizable particles of a biomass/catalyst composite material. The process comprises the steps of (i) providing a particulate, solid biomass material; (ii) forming a composite of the biomass material and a catalytic material; (iii) subjecting the biomass material to a thermal treatment at a torrefaction temperature at or above 200° C., and low enough to avoid significant conversion of the biomass material to liquid conversion products; and (iv) forming fluidizable particles from the biomass material. Step (ii) may be carried out before or after step (iii).
US08932368B2	Method for monitoring the unauthorized use of a device The invention is directed to systems and methods for detecting the loss, theft or unauthorized use of a device and/or altering the functionality of the device in response. In one embodiment, a device monitors its use, its local environment, and/or its operating context to determine that the device is no longer within the control of an authorized user. The device may receive communications or generate an internal signal altering its functionality, such as instructing the device to enter a restricted use mode, a surveillance mode, to provide instructions to return the device and/or to prevent unauthorized use or unauthorized access to data. Additional embodiments also address methods and systems for gathering forensic data regarding an unauthorized user to assist in locating the unauthorized user and/or the device.
US08932365B2	Femoral component for a knee prosthesis with improved articular characteristics An orthopaedic knee prosthesis includes a femoral component which exhibits enhanced articular features, minimizes removal of healthy bone stock from the distal femur, and minimizes the impact of the prosthesis on adjacent soft tissues of the knee.
US08932364B2	Prosthetic knee void filers with splined fixation Disclosed herein are systems and methods for filling bone voids which may be present at the time of surgery. The systems disclosed herein generally include a baseplate component, a spacer component, and void filler component. The spacer component is generally assembled to the baseplate component with a taper or press-fit, for example, in one of a plurality of selected axial positions. The void filler component is then generally assembled to the spacer component in one of a plurality of selected axial positions. The void filler component preferably has an outer surface with portions having varying diameters such that the outer surface thereof can be received within a canal of a bone and contact the bone forming the canal at different locations in order to aid in stabilizing the assembled components in the canal.
US08932362B2	Elbow prosthesis An elbow prosthesis constructed in accordance to one example of the present teachings can include a first stem structure that is operable to be positioned in a first bone of a joint. The first stem structure can include a first stem portion and a cage structure. The first stem portion may be operable to be positioned in the first bone. The cage structure can be formed generally between an inner sidewall and an outer surface. The stem portion can have opposing surfaces that define a disconnect formed entirely through the cage structure from the inner sidewall to the outer surface. A first bearing component can have an exterior cage opposing surface. The first bearing component can be selectively inserted into the cage structure from an insertion position to an installed position. A fastener can be threadably advanced into an engaged position with the cage structure to reduce a gap defined between the opposing surfaces of the disconnect while radially contracting the cage structure around the first bearing.
US08932360B2	Implants for spinal therapy Minimally invasive surgical techniques including techniques and implants for provision of therapy to a spine from a lateral approach. Implants that may be used with other approaches to the spine are disclosed. Minimally invasive surgical techniques using one or more extended retractors to create an extended access route such as the non-limiting example of lateral access to the spine. Minimally invasive surgical techniques using internal retractors that may be reversibly expanded with a removable retractor inserter to create an extended access route. A linkage jack to expand a set of two or more extended retractors to create an extended access route.
US08932357B2	Intervertebral implant A method for fixation of an intervertebral implant includes the steps of: a) applying a spreading force to a first and second adjacent vertebral bodies; b) removing the intervertebral disc between the adjacent first and second vertebral bodies; c) inserting a shaft of the bone anchors into the vertebral bodies, and fixing a head of the bone anchors to an intervertebral implant.
US08932356B2	Intervertebral implant Embodiments are directed to bone-joining or bone-bridging intervertebral implants with an inner channel-type structure of channels, which extend parallel from a bone contacting-surface of the implant to the inside of the implant, whereby the channels are connected by lateral openings.
US08932355B2	Spinal implant with expandable fixation A spinal implant which is configured to be deployed between adjacent vertebral bodies. The implant has at least one fixation element with a retracted configuration to facilitate deployment of the implant and an extended configuration so as to engage a surface of an adjacent vertebral body and secure the implant between two vertebral bodies. Preferably, the implant is expandable and has a minimal dimension in its unexpanded state that is smaller than the dimensions of the neuroforamen through which it must pass to be deployed within the intervertebral space. Once within the space between vertebral bodies, the implant can be expanded so as to engage the endplates of the adjacent vertebrae to effectively distract the anterior disc space, stabilize the motion segments and eliminate pathologic spine motion. Angular deformities can be corrected, and natural curvatures restored and maintained.
US08932351B2	Accommodative intraocular lens having a haptic plate An accommodating intraocular lens (AIOL) comprising an optic, and at least one haptic plate coupled to the optic by at least one connector, the connector being less rigid than the haptic plate, the at least one haptic plate surrounding the optic, and the optic and haptic plate having a combined surface area between 70 mm2 and 100 mm2. The at least one haptic plate may form a continuous 360-degree boundary around the optic. The at least one haptic plate has a width in a radial dimension of 1.0-3.5 mm across its entire angular extent.
US08932349B2	Cardiac valve, system, and method A cardiac valve with a support frame having a first end member and a second end member opposing the first end member in a substantially fixed distance relationship, and a cover extending over the support frame to allow for unidirectional flow of a liquid through the valve.
US08932347B2	Implantable materials having engineered surfaces and method of making same Implantable materials having engineered surfaces and method of making same comprising geometric features on at least one surface of the material having at least one of chemical, physiochemical and electrochemical activity different than regions of the at least one surface without the features.
US08932333B2	Modular interspinous fixation system and method A modular interspinous fixation system and method are shown. The system and method comprise a first plate, a second plate and a locking cross bar for locking the first and second plates together and into locked engagement with a first spinous process and a second spinous process. A bridge is mounted or received on the locking cross bar so that it becomes locked onto the locking cross bar when the locking cross bar is in locked engagement. The bridge and locking cross bar are adapted so that the bridge does not rotate about its axis while on the locking cross bar. Various other embodiments are shown illustrating various bridges of different shapes and sizes, integral and non-integral locking cross bars and even a ramped locking cross bar for facilitating preventing separation of the first and second plates after they are mounted to the first and second spinous processes.
US08932327B2	Anchoring device An anchoring device having an elongate body at a proximal portion, a distal portion of the elongate body forming a loop at a distal portion of the anchoring device. The loop further includes a plurality of anchors disposed along a surface thereof and the loop also including an end effector. Methods for securing anchoring devices of the present disclosure are also disclosed.
US08932325B2	Devices and methods useful for sealing bodily openings Among other things, there are disclosed apparatuses and methods for medically sealing an opening in a vessel or wall. For example, in medical applications, a delivery tube is provided for insertion through a sheath into a vessel (e.g. a blood vessel). A dome-shaped seal fixed to a filament, an absorbent and/or compressible buffer, and a locking member are provided in the delivery tube. The delivery tube is configured so that it can be inserted into the vessel through a sheath. Tension is maintained on the filament to hold the seal against the tube or sheath. The sheath is pulled out, which pulls out the tube at the same time, leaving the seal over the opening in the vessel wall. The locking member compresses the buffer against the outside of the vessel and with the filament holds the seal in place against the inside of a vessel.
US08932321B1	Aspiration systems Thrombus aspiration may be performed using manual negative intermittent suction (e.g., provided by a syringe) or using an automated negative suction device (e.g., provided by a vacuum pump). The suction device may be connected through suction tubing to a hub of a catheter. The automated negative suction device may include an external control panel for the operator configured to allow the operator to choose from any of a plurality of suction patterns during an aspiration procedure.
US08932316B2	Methods and devices for diagnosing, monitoring, or treating medical conditions through an opening through an airway wall Methods and devices for diagnosing, monitoring, and/or treating tissue through an opening or port through an airway wall are provided herein.
US08932315B2	Systems and methods for percutaneous occlusion crossing The present invention provides methods and apparatuses for crossing or bypassing total or near total occlusions of vessels through the use of elongate members and specialized catheters that include a piercing catheter, a reentry catheter, a multi-lumen, reentry catheter, and combinations thereof. A piercing catheter comprises a distal tip used to pierce an occlusion in a crossing procedure and can be configured to microdissect the occlusion or provide support for an elongate member. A reentry catheter comprises a distal side port and ramp to facilitate the reentry or perforation of a vessel wall. A multi-lumen, reentry catheter comprises a tearable lumen divider and a distal side port and ramp.
US08932314B2	Prime and fire lancing device with contacting bias drive and method Described and illustrated herein is an exemplary lancing device. The lancing device includes a first housing, second housing, movable member, lancet, and lancet depth adjustment member. The lancet depth adjustment member is captured by both the first and second housings so that the lancet depth adjustment member is rotatable relative to both housings to provide for a plurality of stop surfaces to the movable member. Other exemplary embodiments are also described.
US08932312B2	Instrument and system for surgical cutting and evoked potential monitoring A surgical cutting instrument for use with a drive motor, and related system and method, is described. The surgical cutting instrument includes an elongated drive member, a cutting tip secured to the drive member, a non-conductive coupling body adapted for connection to a motor assembly, a housing maintaining the coupling body, a fluid coupling assembly and an electrical connector for connection to a stimulating energy source. The electrical connector is in electrical communication with the cutting tip via an electrical pathway.
US08932310B2	Minimally invasive lung volume reduction devices, methods, and systems A lung volume reduction system is disclosed comprising an implantable device adapted to be delivered to a lung airway of a patient in a delivery configuration and to change to a deployed configuration to bend the lung airway. The invention also discloses a method of bending a lung airway of a patient comprising inserting a device into the airway in a delivery configuration and bending the device into a deployed configuration, thereby bending the airway.
US08932309B2	Surgical polymer molded and flexible covering material with or without secondary composite additive materials for providing anti-bacterial and tear resistant properties A surgically implantable mesh for covering a tear or rupture in a lining associated with an interior body cavity. A mat shaped polymer body has top and bottom spaced apart surfaces which are communicable at intervals by an interior configuration defined in the body and which promotes tissue in-growth following implantation. An antibacterial additive is intermixed with the polymer in a viscous state prior to formation and can included at least one of silver, gold, copper, bronze, or ground bamboo fibers.
US08932303B2	Surgical screwdriver An instrument for attachment and insertion of a screw assembly into a surgical site includes a housing, an attachment shaft, and a drive shaft. The housing including a movable hub. The attachment shaft includes a proximal end for coupling to the housing and a distal end with a flexible portion for selectively attaching to a receiver of the screw assembly. The drive shaft within the attachment shaft includes a proximal end for selectively engaging the hub and a distal end with a driving feature for driving a head of the screw assembly.
US08932301B2	Targeting jig for hip fracture nail system An instrument system is provided for positioning an internal fixation prosthesis and guiding a cannulated bone drill during a surgical, radioscopic procedure for the repair of a fractured bone of a patient. The instrument system includes a target wire, a handle formed from a radio translucent material having a target hole for guided passage of the target wire along a target axis. The target axis coincides with the intersection of a first plane and a second plane orthogonal to the first plane. The instrument system also includes a nose component attached to an end of the handle and removably connectable to the prosthesis. The nose component includes an alignment sight formed from a radio-opaque material.
US08932300B2	Bone treatment systems and methods Methods and instruments for treating an osteoporotic vertebral body or for treating a vertebral compression fracture. An exemplary method includes introducing an open knit structure together with a bone cement into a bone wherein the knit structure extends substantially throughout the interior of the cement volume. In one aspect of the invention, the bone cement volumes cures with the filament structure reinforcing the cement. In another aspect of the invention, the open knit structure is configured to direct flows of bone cement to apply forces for reducing a vertebral compression fracture. In another aspect of the invention, the system provides bone cement flows that extend through the knit structure thus allowing the cement to fully interdigitate with the cancellous bone.
US08932296B2	Spinal rod persuader Methods, systems, and devices for pulling a spinal vertebra toward a spinal rod are provided. One spinal rod persuasion system includes a cord configured to engage a pedicle screw installed in a spinal vertebra. The system also includes a tensioner configured to engage the cord and a spinal rod, and to apply tension to the cord to pull the pedicle screw toward the spinal rod. One method includes installing a pedicle screw in a spinal vertebra, affixing a cord to the pedicle screw, coupling the cord to a tensioner, coupling a spinal rod to the tensioner, and pulling the pedicle screw toward the spinal rod.
US08932293B2	Method and apparatus for vascular tissue sealing with reduced energy consumption An end effector assembly for use with an electrosurgical instrument is provided. The end effector assembly includes a pair of opposing jaw members configured to grasp tissue therebetween. Each of the opposing jaw members includes a non conducting tissue contact surface and an energy delivering element configured to perforate the tissue to create an opening, extract elastin and collagen from the tissue and denaturize the elastin and the collagen in the vicinity of the opening.
US08932288B2	Medical apparatus system having optical fiber load sensing capability An apparatus and method for diagnosis or treatment of a vessel or organ. The apparatus includes a deformable body such as a catheter having a tissue ablation end effector and an irrigation channel in fluid communication therewith. At least two sensors are disposed within a distal extremity of the deformable body, the sensors being responsive to a wave in a specified range of frequency to detect deformations resulting from a contact force applied to the distal extremity. A microprocessor can be operatively coupled with the sensors to receive outputs therefrom, the microprocessor being configured to resolve a multi-dimensional force vector corresponding to the contact force. In one embodiment, the sensors are fiber Bragg grating sensors, and the wave is injected into the fiber Bragg grating strain sensors from a laser diode.
US08932281B2	Energy-delivery devices with flexible fluid-cooled shaft, inflow/outflow junctions suitable for use with same, and systems including same An energy-delivery device suitable for delivery of energy to tissue includes an antenna assembly, a chamber defined about the antenna assembly, and a cable having a proximal end suitable for connection to an electrosurgical energy source. The energy-delivery device also includes a flexible, fluid-cooled shaft coupled in fluid communication with the chamber. The flexible, fluid-cooled shaft is configured to contain a length of the cable therein and adapted to remove heat along the length of the cable during delivery of energy to the antenna assembly.
US08932278B2	Skin treatment system with time modulated laser pulses A laser skin treatment process and system. The system includes features for producing a first laser beam of long pulse duration and a second laser beam of short pulse duration and a skin cooler for cooling the surface of a region of skin. The system is designed to utilize the first laser beam for heating a volume of skin tissue below the cooled surface region to a temperature to produce skin tissue modification but below skin tissue damage threshold. This volume of skin tissue is called a “thermal cavity”. The second laser beam is divided into a plurality of separate laser beams that are directed through separate optical fibers and via separate paths through skin tissue to a single tiny volume of skin tissue within the thermal cavity to produce in that tiny volume mechanical damage. This tiny volume is called an energy droplet. Thus tiny regions of tissue are damaged while minimizing or preventing any significant damage to adjacent tissue.
US08932277B2	Instrument for laparoscopic surgery In an instrument for laparoscopic surgery, with an operating handle, a rectilinear first shaft section connected to the operating handle, a flexible second shaft section arranged at the distal end of the first shaft section and having an end part located at the distal tip of the second shaft section, wherein the second shaft section can be moved from a rectilinear extension position to a curved position in a predetermined plane of curvature with the aid of a tensioning means engaging on the end part, provision is made for a flexible connecting means to extend between the first shaft section and the end part, and the flexible connecting means has a restoring function with which the flexible second shaft section can be restored automatically to a rectilinear or predetermined extension position.
US08932276B1	Shapeable guide catheters and related methods Shapeable guide catheters and methods for manufacturing and using such shapeable guide catheters. In one embodiment, the shapeable guide catheter comprises a tubular member having a shapeable region, a malleable shaping member attached to the shapeable region such that, when the shape of the shapeable region is changed from a first shape to a second shape, the shaping member will plastically deform to thereafter substantially hold the shapeable region in the second shape, a tubular outer jacket disposed about the outer surface of the tubular member and a tubular inner jacket disposed within the lumen of the tubular member. The shapeable region of the guide catheter may be manually formed into a desired shape before insertion of the guide catheter into the body. In some embodiments, the guide catheter is sized to be inserted through a nostril of a human patient and used to guide the transnasal insertion of another device (e.g., a guidewire, catheter, etc.) to a desired location within the nose, throat, ear or cranium of the subject.
US08932274B2	Absorbent article An underpants-type absorbent article having an outer body provided with a mutually separate front piece, back piece and connecting sheet, and wherein the front piece and the back piece are mutually joined at side areas and are mutually connected by the connecting sheet extending in an front-to-rear direction at the crotch area, and an inner body containing an absorptive body and which is overlapped and anchored to the connecting sheet on the inside of the outer body. At least a portion of both edges in the transverse direction of the connecting sheet are positioned farther to the inside in the transverse direction than both edges in the transverse direction of the inner body in a spacing area between the front piece and the back piece.
US08932273B2	Disposable absorbent insert for two-piece wearable absorbent article A disposable absorbent insert for a two-piece wearable absorbent article having features for the containment and absorption of bodily exudates. The insert may be adapted to be used with an outer cover and may have containment and absorption features including cuff structures that prevent soiling of the outer cover by the wearer's exudates, so that the outer cover may be reused after an exudation event and change of inserts. The insert may have features to enhance containment, absorption, economy of materials and/or fit that makes it asymmetric about its lateral axis, and may have features that direct a user to install the insert with correct front-rear orientation relative the outer cover and/or the wearer.
US08932263B2	Anchoring an intravenous cannula Some embodiments of a medical system include a subcutaneous anchor device that extends outwardly from side wall of an intravenous cannula so as to secure the intravenous cannula in a position relative to a skin penetration point.
US08932260B2	Reduced-friction catheter introducer and method of manufacturing and using the same Tear-away and non-tear-away sheath introducers for catheters, methods for making such introducers, and methods for using such introducers are described. The sheath introducers contain movable valves that are encapsulated in a movable housing that allows the valve to move along the axis of the introducer. As the movable valve and housing travel along the axis, a portion of the hub protrudes past the valve and is exposed. As well, the sheath introducers can also contain a stationary valve and housing that can be opened to expose a portion of the hub when a conduit penetrates the stationary valve. In both instances, the protruding portion of the hub contains a friction-free pathway for a catheter into the sheath introducer. The introducers can therefore be used with any catheter, regardless of the size or material, because of the reduced or eliminated frictional force between the catheter and introducer.
US08932257B2	Catheter insertion device The present disclosure relates to a catheter insertion device, which comprises a catheter hub in which a check valve is arranged, and a catheter, which is in fluid communication with the catheter hub, wherein a support element is attached to the catheter, and a flexible buffer element is provided between the support element and the catheter hub.
US08932254B2	Syringe safety shields and autoinjector A disposable syringe assembly for use in an autoinjector device, or manually includes a syringe housing which receives the syringe barrel and which is restrained against longitudinal movement with respect thereto, a shield portion mounted for generally telescopic movement relative to the syringe housing between a retracted position and an extended position in which in use it shields the syringe needle, and a lock out arrangement activated as the shield moves towards its extended position to prevent retraction therefrom. When fitted in an autoinjector the autoinjector may include drive mechanism for moving the shield portion to its locked out extended position, whereby, on completion of an injection operation, the disposable syringe assembly may be removed from the autoinjector in a shielded condition for subsequent disposal.
US08932252B2	Medical injector simulation device An apparatus includes a simulated medicament delivery device and an electronic circuit system coupled to the simulated medicament delivery device. The electronic circuit system is configured to output an electronic output associated with a use of the simulated medicament delivery device.
US08932250B2	Systems and methods to pair a medical device and a remote controller for such medical device A disease management system, methods, and devices are shown and described. In one embodiment, the system includes an infusion pump and a remote controller with the ability to be paired to each other. A method to verify a wireless connection between an infusion pump and a remote controller is shown and described herein. In a further embodiment, a method to verify a wireless connection between an infusion pump and a remote controller is provided. In addition, a method of operating a diabetes management system is provided in which the system includes an infusion pump and at least a remote controller.
US08932249B2	Trocar assembly A trocar assembly including a sleeve assembly defining a working channel extending axially therethrough and including an insufflation port in fluid communication with the working channel, and an insufflation valve assembly fluidly coupled to the insufflation port, the insufflation valve assembly including a valve member and a housing, wherein the valve member defines an inlet channel and is biased relative to the housing to a first position in which the inlet channel is in fluid communication with the working channel, and wherein the valve member is moveable relative to the housing from the first position to a second position in which the inlet channel is fluidly decoupled from the working channel.
US08932247B2	Flow control method and device An arterio-venous graft (16) is provided with a constriction device (20) near its arterial end. The constriction device (20) is used to reduce the flow through the AV graft under normal conditions and to relieve the constriction when high flow through the AV graft is required, such as for vascular access for hemodialysis.
US08932245B2	Ventilative orthopedic boot with an air cushion An orthopedic boot has a boot body, a front cover and at least one binding strap. The boot body has a foot support, a leg support, an air cushion and a toecap. The leg support has a free edge provided with multiple slits and multiple vents. The air cushion is mounted on the foot support. Accordingly, the orthopedic boot is ventilative and can provide comfort to a user.
US08932242B2	Methods and devices for assisting birth Devices and methods for assisting birth are disclosed. The device is constructed from an elastic material with an elongated center and handles at both ends. A patient grasps the device at one end, while the other end is secured. When the patient experiences a contraction, the patient pulls on the device at a downward angle. The device elastically stretches and causes the patient to utilize correct abdominal muscles for pushing a fetus down a birth canal, thus reducing second stage of labor.
US08932241B2	Wearable action-assist device and control program A wearable action-assist device includes a biosignal detection unit detecting a biosignal from a wearer, an action-assist wearing tool having a drive source supplying a torque acting on the wearer around each joint of the wearer as an axis of rotation, a control unit controlling the drive source to generate the torque according to the detected biosignal, a drive torque estimation unit estimating a drive torque generated by the drive source, a joint-angle detecting unit detecting an angular displacement of the joint, and a parameter identification unit identifying kinetics parameters concerned by substituting the estimated drive torque and the detected angular displacement into an equation of motion of an entire system including kinetics parameters intrinsic to the wearer. The control unit is configured to control the drive source according to a predetermined control method based on the equation of motion into which the identified parameters are substituted.
US08932239B2	Method and apparatus for ultrasound drug delivery and thermal therapy with phase-convertible fluids An ultrasound treatment includes applying ultrasound at a first energy level to a region of interest in a subject for activating a cavitation nucleation agent during a first portion of a treatment cycle. Ultrasound at a second energy level is applied to the region of interest during a second portion of the treatment cycle for implementing a desired thermal therapy in the presence of the cavitation nucleation agent activated during the first portion of the treatment cycle. The second energy level is at an energy level different from the first energy level.
US08932238B2	Medical ultrasound device with liquid dispensing device coupled to a therapy head A medical ultrasound system. A base unit is included having system electronics, a user interface and ultrasound control electronics. An ultrasound therapy head is in electronic communication with the base unit. The therapy head includes a replaceable, sealed transducer cartridge with a coupling fluid therein. A cooling system is provided for cooling the coupling fluid. A plurality of guide indicators are positioned around the therapy head to align with crossed lines on a patient so as to properly align the therapy head prior to use. The therapy head can provide variable treatments to an area while the therapy head is in contact with a patient.
US08932235B2	Medical device for navigation through anatomy and method of making same Medical devices for navigation through anatomy, including guidewires, which may have a core wire, a slotted tubular member, or both. Embodiments may have coils, including non-circular cross-section edge-wound marker coils, extended coil tips, and soldered or glued mesial joint coils. Core wires may have a step, ridge, or taper at the joints to the tubular member, and may be flattened at the distal tip. Radiopaque material may be located inside the tubular member, and the distal tip may be heat treated to make it shapeable. Additional tubular members or coils may be used concentrically or in line and may enhance flexibility, provide radiopacity, reduce friction, or reduce material or manufacturing cost. Tubular members may be chamfered or tapered continuously or incrementally. Slots may be arranged in groups, such as groups of three, and may be equal in depth or unequal in depth to provide a steerable or compressible tip.
US08932233B2	MRI biopsy device A magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) compatible core biopsy system uses a biopsy device having intuitive graphical displays and a detachable remote keypad that advantageously allows convenient control even within the close confines afforded by a localization fixture installed within a breast coil that localizes a patient's breast and guides a probe of the biopsy device relative to the localized breast. A control module for interactive control and power generation are remotely positioned and communicate and transmit rotational mechanical energy via sheathed cable.
US08932232B2	Tissue sampling device and method A device and method for collecting a tissue sample. The device includes a blade comprising an anterior portion and an elongated blade body. The elongated blade body is substantially firm and the anterior portion is bendable. The anterior portion comprises a sharp or pointed anterior end adapted to pierce and penetrate into tissue and a sampling mechanism with at least one recess or notch disposed therein or a sampling channel to collect the tissue sample. The sheath comprises an elongated body having an interior lumen, and an arcuate slot corresponding in shape to the blade and forming a continuum between the interior lumen and an exterior aperture laterally on the body of the sheath.
US08932225B2	Ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus and ultrasonic diagnostic method An ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus comprises a first reception echo obtaining unit, a second reception echo obtaining unit, a reception echo combining unit, and an image generating unit. The first reception echo obtaining unit transmits a plurality of ultrasonic pulses having frequency spectra different from one another to an object, and obtains each of reception echoes corresponding to the plurality of ultrasonic pulses. The second reception echo obtaining unit transmits an ultrasonic pulse having the same frequency component characteristics as an combined pulse obtained by combining the plurality of ultrasonic pulses, and to obtain an reception echo. The reception echo combining unit combines the reception echoes obtained by the first reception echo obtaining unit and the reception echo obtained by the second reception echo obtaining unit to generate a combined signal. The image generating unit generates an image of echoes reflected from the object on the basis of the combined signal.
US08932216B2	Method and system for providing data management in integrated analyte monitoring and infusion system Methods and systems for providing therapy related data management are provided. The subject systems include one or more device components, and at least one memory storage unit and at least one data storage unit associated with such one or more device components. The device components may include one or more of an analyte monitoring system, a fluid delivery device and a remote terminal. The subject methods include use of the subject systems to optimize treatment of a patient.
US08932212B2	Seal anchor with non-parallel lumens A seal anchor member defines a housing defining a longitudinal axis, the housing having leading and trailing ends, and including a plurality of lumens extending between the leading and trailing ends, each lumen being adapted for substantially sealed reception of an object therein and defining a longitudinal axis, wherein at least two of the lumens define longitudinal axes that are non-parallel to facilitate angled, at-rest placement of multiple instruments within the seal anchor member.
US08932211B2	Floating, multi-lumen-catheter retractor system for a minimally-invasive, operative gastrointestinal treatment Improved methods and devices for performing an endoscopic surgery are provided. Systems are taught for operatively treating gastrointestinal disorders endoscopically in a stable, yet dynamic operative environment, and in a minimally-invasive manner. Such systems include, for example, an endoscopic surgical suite. The surgical suite can have a reversibly-expandable retractor that expands to provide a stable, operative environment within a subject. The expansion can be asymmetric around a stabilizer subsystem to maximize space for a tool and an endoscope to each be maneuvered independently to visualize a target tissue and treat the target tissue from outside the patient in a minimally invasive manner.
US08932209B2	Scanning endoscopic device and method of decreasing directivity of beam light in scanning endoscopic device A scanning endoscopic device includes an optical fiber allowing irradiation light guided from a proximal side fiber portion to a distal side fiber portion to exit from a distal end thereof, and an actuator section placed to a distal direction side of the proximal fiber portion. The scanning endoscopic device includes a light absorbing section absorbing beam light having directivity in one direction, and the light absorbing section includes a black filling member filling a space between the proximal side fiber portion and an outer envelope tube in radial directions. The device further includes a light scattering section provided between the proximal side fiber portion and the outer envelope tube in the radial directions to scatter the beam of light.
US08932207B2	Integrated multi-functional endoscopic tool A system for extending the visual capabilities and working channel of a bronchoscope including a probe having optic and/or tracking capabilities at a distal tip thereof and capable of being advanced through the working channel of a standard bronchoscope. The probe also includes a working channel through which various diagnostic and treatment tools may be advanced.
US08932205B2	Ocular implant delivery systems and methods Described herein are delivery devices and methods of using the devices for delivering an ocular implant into a suprachoroidal space without use of a goniolens. The delivery device includes a handle including a channel extending from a proximal end of the handle to a distal end of the handle, an applier coupled to the handle, the applier including a blunt distal tip and an elongate, flexible wire insertable through a fluid channel of an ocular implant, and a fiber optic image bundle reversibly inserted through the channel such that the fiber optic image bundle extends to a region proximal to the blunt distal tip of the applier.
US08932203B2	Body implantable penile prosthetic assembly with one touch to erection (OTTER) capability and penile implant deflation capability A body implantable penile prosthetic assembly offering a user a one touch to erection (OTTER) capability and a penile implant deflation capability is described. The assembly includes a pump and a release mechanism. The pump is connectable to a pressure reservoir and a penile implant. The pump is operable to pressurize liquid in the pressure reservoir and the pressure reservoir is operable to store the pressurized liquid at a first pressure between 20-50 PSIg that is configured to inflate the penile implant to an erect state. The release mechanism is connectable between the pressure reservoir and the penile implant. The release mechanism is operable to inflate the penile implant with one-touch input from the user where the release mechanism is configured to release the stored pressurized liquid from the pressure reservoir to inflate the penile implant at a second pressure between 10-20 PSIg.
US08932201B2	Surgical articles and methods for treating pelvic conditions Described are pelvic implants and methods of surgically placing pelvic implants, that provide treatment for pelvic floor disorders by support of the levator. A pelvic implant (100, 102) may comprise a tissue support portion (104) to be placed in contact with tissue to be supported, extension portions (106, 110) that extend from the tissue support portion to provide additional support, and tissue fasteners (108, 112) to attach extension portions to supportive tissue.
US08932192B2	Inverted machine An inverted machine has a supporting bracket, an orientating assembly, a connecting frame and a table. The supporting bracket has two supporting shafts, two mounting jackets and a locating sheath mounted around one of the mounting jackets. The orientating assembly is connected to the supporting bracket and has a brake locator, a rotating shaft, two clamping slices, a pulling rod, a spring and a cam device. The brake locator is connected to the mounting jacket that is connected to the locating sheath. The rotating shaft is connected to the other mounting jacket. The clamping slices are pivotally connected to the brake locator. The pulling rod is connected to the clamping slices. The spring is mounted around the pulling rod between the clamping slices. The cam device is connected to the pulling rod. The connecting frame is connected to the orientating assembly. The table is mounted on the connecting frame.
US08932190B2	Resistance band-based leg strengthening and training exercise equipment The invention provides an apparatus, system, and method for enhancing exercise effectiveness via first and second elastic resistance bands that wrap around a user's thighs.
US08932187B1	Resistance exercise apparatus A resistance exercise apparatus is disclosed including a weighted object, an elongate beam, a first engagement member, a second engagement member, a frame, a first bearing and a second bearing. The elongate beam extends in and through weighted object such that when the beam rotates about its lengthwise axis, the weighted object rotates with the beam. Proximal ends of the engagement members are connected to the beam and include a cavity defined and a slot. The frame includes support extensions supporting the bearings, the bearings allowing the beam to rotate along its lengthwise axis within the bearings.
US08932186B2	Foot-therapy and toe-aligning device Described is an exercise tool. More particularly, it is a therapy and exercise tool specifically devised as a foot-therapy and toe-aligning device to align, separate, and stretch toes. The foot-therapy and toe-aligning device comprises a frame with a plurality of posts connected with the frame. The device is formed of an elastic material such that a user may place at least one of the plurality of posts between a user's toes and pull the post to stretch and elongate the post between the toes. Upon release, the elastic material of the post causes the post to attempt to return to its original shape, thereby causing it to expand out and conform its shape to fit snugly against the user's toes. Additionally, the elastic material allows the toe posts to be positioned and maintained at numerous locations between the user's toes for customizable positioning between the toes.
US08932185B2	Brake device with built-in power generation mechanism and permanent magnetism eddy current A brake device with built-in power generation mechanism and permanent magnetism eddy current comprises: an external rotator including a flywheel and a permanent magnet fixed at an inner periphery of the flywheel; an internal stator including a fixing bracket and a tile-shaped armature mounted at an outer periphery of the fixing bracket; a brake mechanism including a magnetic-conductive plate; when the external rotator is rotated the tile-shaped armature generates a three-phase alternating current, and the arc-shaped metal plate generates eddy current and braking torque of magnetic resistant; a cooling fan mounted on the flywheel to produce a cooling effect; an adjustment mechanism provided for adjusting a gap between the arc-shaped metal plate and the permanent magnet to adjust magnetic flux, and thus change the braking resistant load; a controller transferring the three-phase alternating current into direct current for required power of the control panel and server.
US08932182B2	Coast stop vehicle and control method for coast stop vehicle A coast stop vehicle, includes an engine, a transmission arranged between the engine and drive wheels and having a plurality of gear positions, a coast stop starting unit which automatically stops the engine when a coast stop start condition holds during travel, a coast stop releasing unit which automatically starts the engine when a coast stop release condition holds during a coast stop, and a downshifting unit which starts engagement of a frictional engagement element, which realizes a lower gear position than the one when the coast stop release condition holds, before complete explosion of the engine and causes a downshift of the transmission when the coast stop release condition holds.
US08932180B2	Clutch controller A claw clutch includes first and second rotors disposed coaxially with each other, and is switched between an engaged state engaging teeth of the rotors and a disengaged state releasing the engagement. An actuator moves either one of the rotors in an axial direction to switch the clutch between the states. A synchronization controlling unit controls an electric motor coupled to the second rotor to cause its rotation number to approach the rotation number of the first rotor when the clutch is switched to the engaged state. An engagement controlling unit that controls the actuator moves either one of the rotors to a position where the teeth are engaged before a difference in rotation speed between the rotors falls within a predetermined range and the rotation number of the second rotor reaches that of the first rotor when the clutch is switched to the engaged state.
US08932178B2	Vehicle A vehicle includes a transmission between an engine and a drive wheel and includes a differential mechanism (planetary gear mechanism) between the engine and an engagement device (transmission). A controller (ECU) included in the vehicle calculates a variation rate in the whole rotation energy of the planetary gear mechanism when it is in the inertia phase of a shift. The ECU increasingly corrects an engine generated power and decreasingly corrects a transmission transfer power when the variation rate is higher than 0. The ECU decreasingly corrects the engine generated power and increasingly correct the transmission transfer power when the variation rate is lower than 0.
US08932177B2	Planetary gear train with thrust collar used as thrust bearing of planetary gear and wind turbine generator incorporating the same A planetary gear train is provided with: a carrier; a planetary gear; a planetary pin inserted into an insert hole provided through the planetary gear and coupled to the carrier to rotatably support the planetary gear; a thrust collar attached to a surface opposed to the planetary gear of the carrier so as to surround the planetary pin; and a pin for coupling the thrust collar to the carrier. The thrust collar has a first surface opposed to the carrier and a second surface opposed to the planetary gear, and has a first pin hole provided on the first surface so as not to reach the second surface. The carrier has a second pin hole on a surface opposed to the planetary gear. The thrust collar is attached to the carrier by inserting the pin into the first pin hole of the thrust collar and into the second pin hole of the carrier.
US08932175B2	Multi-speed transmission A transmission is provided having an input member, an output member, at least four planetary gear sets, a plurality of coupling members and a plurality of torque transmitting devices. Each of the planetary gear sets includes first, second and third members. The torque transmitting devices include clutches and a brake actuatable in combinations of three to establish a plurality of forward gear ratios and at least one reverse gear ratio.
US08932173B2	Automated manual transmission for vehicle An automated manual transmission for a vehicle includes an input shaft and an output shaft disposed parallel to each other, a controller and a plurality of external gear trains, planetary gear devices and friction elements. Each external gear train comprises two external gears coaxially and respectively provided on the input and output shafts, and selectively engaged with each other to form a series of gear stages. Each planetary gear device selectively connects one of the two external gears in a corresponding external gear train such that a state of transmitting rotating force to a shaft, on which the selected external gear is provided, can be changed. Each friction element controls rotation of a rotational element of a corresponding planetary gear device. The controller controls the friction elements in accordance with driving conditions of the vehicle, thereby shifting the gear stages.
US08932172B2	Differential and differential assembly method A differential includes a pinion shaft holder, a differential case, a first side gear, a second side gear, a first spring and a second spring. The differential case includes a first side boss portion and a second side boss portion. The first spring is interposed between the first side boss portion and the first side gear. The second spring is interposed between the second side boss portion and the second side gear. A recessed portion is provided on the pinion shaft holder and is configured to avoid interference with an auxiliary tool. The auxiliary tool maintains one of the first spring and the second spring in the compressed state.
US08932168B2	Automated manual transmission An automated manual transmission may include first and second auxiliary gears, wherein the first auxiliary gear is rotatably provided on an INPUT shaft to be rotated relatively with respect to the INPUT shaft and wherein the second auxiliary gear is provided on an OUTPUT shaft to be meshed with the first auxiliary gear, a planetary gear unit provided with three or more rotational elements wherein one rotational element thereof receives power from an engine to be rotated constantly and another rotational element thereof is coupled to the first auxiliary gear provided on the INPUT shaft to be rotated, and a motor generator that is coupled to still another rotational element of the rotational elements and provides a rotational power to the still another rotational element in shifting gears so that the rotational power is transmitted to the OUTPUT shaft through the first and second auxiliary gears.
US08932165B2	Toothed power transmission belt A toothed belt includes a body, at least one tooth formed of the body, a jacket disposed along a peripheral surface of the at least one tooth and having a compressed thickness in the range from 0.5 mm to about 0.8 mm, and at least one cord embedded in the body and having a diameter. The at least one cord and said jacket have a ratio of said cord diameter to said jacket thickness of less than 1.8, and said cord diameter and said jacket thickness describe an optical belt PLD of about 1.2 mm or less.
US08932162B2	Bicycle front derailleur A front derailleur that includes a fixing member that is configured to be fixed to a bicycle frame, a chain guide movable between a retracted position and an extended position with respect to the fixing member, a linkage mechanism coupling the chain guide to the fixing member, and a biasing member that biases the chain guide toward one of the retracted position and the extended position. The linkage mechanism includes a first link member that is pivotable with respect to the fixing member about a first axis and is pivotable with respect to the chain guide about a second axis that is positioned above the first axis when the fixing member is fixed to the bicycle frame. The biasing member is coaxially arranged around the second axis.
US08932161B2	Variable speed alternator A variable speed alternator can include a shaft and adjustable pulley assembly coupled to the shaft. The adjustable pulley assembly can include a support member fixed to the shaft and an adjustable pulley moveably coupled to the support member. The adjustable pulley can have a plurality of individually moveable members each with an outer surface forming a portion of a belt engaging surface for receiving a flat belt to drive the adjustable pulley. Each moveable member can be selectively linearly moveable in a radial direction to vary an outer diameter of the adjustable pulley between a first position having a first outer diameter and a second position having a second outer diameter to selectively vary a driven speed of the alternator shaft.
US08932156B2	System and method to pitch fooballs A system and method for pitching balls, particularly footballs and other football-shaped balls. The system and method are flexibly designed to simulate different types of pitches including but not limited to passes, punts, kick-offs and snaps. A cradle for use in the system and method holds the ball in any one of a number of positions such that when it is fed into the system, the ball is propelled to simulate a different type of pitch. The apparatus and system for pitching balls includes a support for a ball throwing head, two opposing variable speed motor powered wheels that can be tilted in relation to each other to control the spin and distance, a slide configured to present the ball on the cradle into the wheels at different angles to provide right or left handed spirals and end over end pitches, and adjustments for height and horizontal pivot. A removable throwing head allows balls to be pitched from different heights from ground level to an upright arm motion to simulate different types of pitches.
US08932150B2	Golf club head An iron-type golf club head is disclosed having a first piece including a portion of an iron-type face. A second piece including a heel portion, a sole portion, a toe portion, a top-line portion, a hinge region, and a front opening for receiving the first piece is also disclosed. A first contact surface of the first piece is connected with a second contact surface of the second piece at a contact interface. A continuous weld extends along the contact interface attaching the first and second pieces together at the contact interface. The continuous weld includes a fusion zone occurring substantially on the iron-type face outside the hinge region of the club head.
US08932149B2	Golf club assembly and golf club with aerodynamic features A golf club includes a shaft and a club head. The club head may have a channel extending adjacent to a trailing edge of the club head. The channel may have a maximum depth of 6 mm and a maximum width ranging from 10 mm to 20 mm. A rough textured surface region may be provided on a sole, wherein the rough textured surface region has a surface roughness of greater than or equal to 1.00 μm. A recess, formed in the sole, may extend from a mid-region to a toe of the club head, wherein the mid-region extends over the middle 40% of a length of the club head. A crown has an upper, forward surface and a stepped-down region, and the upper, forward surface transitions to the stepped-down region at a transition feature that extends from the hosel region at an angle of from 25 to 50 degrees.
US08932145B2	Golf club grip To provide an inexpensive golf club grip with an improved feel of grip and ball direction control.A grip 10 has a double structure in a certain region 12. The grip 10 includes a grip main body 14 made of a soft resin and an end cap 15 made of a hard resin. The grip main body 14 is formed by insert molding with the end cap 15 being the insert. The end cap 15 includes a cylindrical portion 13. The cylindrical portion 13 has a specific length in the axial direction. The cylindrical portion 13 is inserted into a rear end portion of the grip main body 14. Thus, the torsional rigidity is improved in the region 12. The grip main body 14 is molded using a pin gate mold so that a gate mark 19 can double as a mark indicative of the center thereof.
US08932141B2	Flexible shaft arrangement A flexible shaft arrangement is provided having a ductile shaft, a sleeve which surrounds the shaft as well as a jacket which surrounds the shaft and the sleeve. The sleeve extends within the jacket at least sectionally in arcuate form and thus produces a contact of the shaft at the inner contour of the sleeve point-wise. Vibrations or knocks of the shaft are thus effectively damped.
US08932139B2	Electronic gaming device troubleshooting and logging A method and system for electronic gaming device troubleshooting and logging includes detecting an error condition of an electronic gaming device, an electronic game device having a processor, memory and an interface; generating a reference link for a detected error condition; and conveying a reference link. A system includes an electronic gaming device having a processor, memory and an interface. An electronic gaming device may include a detector configured to detect an error condition of an electronic gaming device; a reference link generator configured to generate a reference link characterizing a detected error condition; and an interface configured to convey a reference link.
US08932138B2	System and method for placing players of a multiplayer game in a virtual world A system, computer-readable storage medium including instructions, and a computer-implemented method for placing players of a multiplayer game in a virtual world are described. Territory for a player of the multiplayer game is placed in the virtual world for the multiplayer game. Territory for at least one other player is placed adjacent to the territory of the player in the virtual world. The player is determined to have entered the territory for the at least one other player. At least one in-game task is assigned to the player based on an in-game state of the player and an in-game state of the at least one other player.
US08932137B2	System and method for secure automated data collection The invention provides for an automated data collection having an endpoint coupled to at least one gaming machine to collect data from the at least one gaming machine, at least one concentrator in communication with the endpoint via a personal area network to obtain the data from the endpoint, and at least one remote collection server in communication with the at least one concentrator to receive the data from the at least one concentrator, wherein the data is pushed from the endpoint to the at least one remote collection server at predefined time intervals without interrupting game play on the at least one gaming machine.
US08932136B2	Method and system for initiating an interactive game The present invention is an interactive system and method whereby participants may engage in a contest that is simultaneously or subsequently broadcast. The broadcast signal may be for the purpose of a pure entertainment source or may be an enticement to play the shown or other interactive games. The games may be computer simulation games, role-playing games, strategy games, question and answer games, casino games, or other games as desired. The broadcast signals may show a specialized view of the game being played and may contain live commentary or other enhancements. The games may be played with set top boxes connected to a television, a broadcast network, and a server system.
US08932134B2	System and method of audio processing A method of audio processing for an entertainment device operable to communicate with a game controller, the method comprising the steps of generating a source sound for reproduction by a plurality of loudspeakers at a current position where acoustic signals from the plurality of loudspeakers are coincident (hereafter referred to as a ‘sweet spot’), requesting that the user steers the sound using the game controller until the user considers the sound to be centered upon them, and interpreting user inputs from the game controller to adjust the output timing of the source sound data signals for reproduction by respective ones of the plurality of loudspeakers in accordance with the user directional inputs so as to move the sweet spot.
US08932128B2	Gaming system, gaming device and method for displaying multiple concurrent games using dynamic focal points The gaming system disclosed herein changes the focal point of a display device at different points in time to assist the player in focusing on different simultaneously or concurrently played games at different points in time. Specifically, the gaming system displays a plurality of simultaneously or concurrently played games on a display device. In response to a designated event occurring in association with a specific one of the plurality of simultaneously or concurrently played games, the gaming system changes the focal point of the display device to draw the player's focus or attention to that specific one of the simultaneously or concurrently played games. Put differently, the gaming system dynamically allocates and/or indicates different portions of a display device to different simultaneously or concurrently played games at different points in time to account for different events occurring in such simultaneously or concurrently played games.
US08932127B2	Secondary game system for a gaming terminal network An embodiment of the inventive method commences with the provision of a plurality of secondary games, which may be default secondary games and/or user-initiated secondary games. The latter may have aspects that are dependent upon data entered by the initiating user into their gaming terminal 5. The method proceeds with the provision to the users of information 32 regarding each of the available secondary games (or at least a subset thereof). This assists the users to make informed decisions regarding in which of the secondary games they wish to participate. The method further includes the step of allowing each of the users to register and/or deregister their respective gaming terminal 5 for participation in a selected one of the secondary games.
US08932116B2	Methods for producing in-situ grooves in chemical mechanical planarization (CMP) pads, and novel CMP pad designs Methods for producing in-situ grooves in CMP pads are provided. In general, the methods for producing in-situ grooves comprise the steps of patterning a silicone lining, placing the silicone lining in, or on, a mold, adding CMP pad material to the silicone lining, and allowing the CMP pad to solidify. CMP pads comprising novel groove designs are also described. For example, described here are CMP pads comprising concentric circular grooves and axially curved grooves, reverse logarithmic grooves, overlapping circular grooves, lassajous groves, double spiral grooves, and multiply overlapping axially curved grooves. The CMP pads may be made from polyurethane, and the grooves produced therein may be made by a method from the group consisting of silicone lining, laser writing, water jet cutting, 3-D printing, thermoforming, vacuum forming, micro-contact printing, hot stamping, and mixtures thereof.
US08932113B2	Grinding machine with 5-axis for cutter A grinding machine with 5-axis for cutters is disclosed, the grinding machine includes a grinding machine base (12) with an circular upper horizontal surface and a pillar (56) provided on one side of the grinding machine base, the pillar is curved with a radian of 180° along a side edge of the base, a groove body (63) on the circular base is enclosed by a curved vertical plate on the another side edge, and the height of vertical plate is lower than that of the pillar. The center of a circle is used as machining center of the grinding machine, so that heat is dissipated outwards uniformly and radially from the center of the grinding machine, the deformation caused by heat in all direction is approximate, and it is easy for temperature compensation, the influence on the machining quality caused by heat deformation is reduced, errors are reduced, the grinding machine is specially suitable for machining cutters with high accuracy requirements, the bed body with the circular base has good stability and balance performance.
US08932110B2	Method of manufacturing perpendicular magnetic recording medium substrate and perpendicular magnetic recording medium substrate manufactured by the same A method of manufacturing a perpendicular magnetic recording medium substrate is capable of reducing the waviness of all wavelength components and a recording medium is capable of reducing contact with a magnetic head to improve the flying stability of the magnetic head. The method includes two polishing operations. The first operation includes polishing a substrate having a Ni—P-based alloy underlayer with a first porous material that includes 0.1 wt % to 25 wt % of alumina, titania, silica, and zirconia abrasive while supplying a first slurry liquid including an organic or inorganic acid and a first abrasive to the underlayer of the substrate. The second operation includes polishing a surface of the underlayer polished in the first polishing with a second porous material while supplying a second slurry liquid including an organic or inorganic acid and a second abrasive with a grain diameter smaller than that of the first abrasive.
US08932109B2	Method for producing multiple-phase surfaces A workpiece having a multiple-phase working surface, and a lapping process for producing the surface, the process including: (a) providing a system including: (i) a workpiece having a multiple-phase working surface having a first continuous solid phase, and a second solid phase, intimately dispersed within the continuous phase in the multiple-phase working surface, the continuous phase having a hardness exceeding a hardness of the second phase by a Mohs Hardness of at least 0.5; (ii) a contact surface, disposed generally opposite the working surface, having a Shore D hardness within a range of 40-90, and a Young's modulus of less than 20 gigapascals; (iii) a plurality of abrasive particles, freely disposed between the contact and working surfaces, and (b) lapping the working surface by exerting a pressure on the surfaces and applying a relative motion between the surfaces, to effect an elastic interaction between the contact surface and the abrasive particles in which at least a portion of the abrasive particles penetrate the working surface, to produce a lapped product having a modified working surface, in which an exterior surface of the second phase is recessed by an average of at least 1.5 micrometers with respect to an exterior surface of the continuous phase.
US08932108B2	High speed barrel polishing device A method useful for polishing a large number of miniature components such as multi-layer electronic components, within a high speed barrel polishing device, is disclosed. In various embodiments of the present invention, a vertical planetary ball mill or other barrel polishing device is modified to rotate polishing containers having a modified interior cavity structure. This interior cavity provides a smooth, gradually curved interior sidewall that improves circulation within the container during high-speed vertical polishing rotation. The improved circulation results in polishing for a larger number of components placed within the container and in less time than existing polishing container structures. In further embodiments, the containers are rotated around a generally tilted axis positioned at an angle between entirely vertical and horizontal positions. Rotation about a tilted axis further reduces collisions and increases relative polishing movement within the container.
US08932105B2	Method for the machining of gear teeth, work piece with gear teeth, and machine tool Method for the machining of gear teeth whose tooth flanks deviate from their specified geometry by a machining allowance, wherein the machining allowance is removed through an infeed of at least two infeed steps, each of which is followed by a machining pass with a profiling tool that rotates about a tool axis, wherein for this operation the profiling tool—after it has been set to a position relative to the gear wheel that depends on the angle at which the plane of rotation of the tool which is orthogonal to the tool axis is tilted against the axis of the gear wheel—is brought into engagement with the gear teeth, wherein after each infeed step the material within the resultant engagement area of the tool is removed, wherein after the last infeed step with a tilt angle setting of the profiling tool that is determined by the design angle of the latter, the area of tool engagement extends over the entire flank height, so that the next machining pass will remove the amount of material required to attain the specified geometry, wherein in at least one infeed step which precedes the last infeed step, the profiling tool is set to a tilt angle which deviates from the angle that the tool was designed for and which results in a tool engagement area which, in comparison to the setting at the designed angle, is enlarged in the direction of the flank height.
US08932103B2	Post-operative brassiere A breast-supportive and breast-positioning brassiere designed to be used postoperatively by patients including obese patients and fuller-sized women who have undergone cardiothoracic surgery that requires a mid-sternal incision (sternotomy). The brassiere is also for other interventions in the thoracic region, when a comfortable and efficient individual positioning and support of the breast(s) would be desirable; an example being to prevent symmastia after breast augmentation surgery. The brassiere prevents gravitation of the breast tissue to the lateral sides, keeps the breast tissue away from the mid center, and supports the weight of the breasts. The brassiere is designed to promote less pain, less wound complications, esthetically improved wound healing, less heat generation, improved wound inspection and access for wound care, while maintaining support and dignity.
US08932101B2	Roller toy apparatus A roller toy apparatus is provided. The roller toy apparatus may include a handle including a grasping portion, an elongate portion and a ball coupling portion, the ball coupling portion including a pair of left and right extensions, each of the left and right extensions including a respective mount extending inwardly into an interior region of the ball coupling portion. The roller toy apparatus may further include a ball rotatably coupled to the ball coupling portion. The ball may be formed of a mesh having a plurality of loop structures, each loop structure surrounding a void, and where each of a pair of loop structures is rotatably coupled to a respective mount of the ball coupling portion, to thereby rotatably couple the ball to the handle.
US08932097B2	Insulating pattern, method of forming the insulating pattern, light-emitting device, method of manufacturing the light-emitting device, and lighting device A simple formation method of an insulating pattern having an eaves portion using one light-exposure mask is provided. As the formation method of an insulating pattern having an eaves portion, first, a first photosensitive organic layer is formed over a substrate, and then a first region is exposed to light with the use of a light-exposure mask, so that a leg portion is formed. After that, a second photosensitive organic layer is formed, the light-exposure mask is moved in the direction parallel to the substrate, and then a second region partly overlapping with the first region is exposed to light plural times, so that a stage portion is formed. The insulating pattern formed by this method may be applied to the light-emitting device or the lighting device.
US08932092B1	Waterjet propulsor with shaft fairing device The invention is directed to a waterjet propulsor. The propulsor includes a structure covering an impeller shaft. The implementation of the elongated structure results in reduced drag, increased thrust and increased craft speed. The elongated structure may be a sleeve that is mounted in a free-floating arrangement over the impeller shaft that self-aligns, the sleeve having an airfoil cross section for optimizing the flow of water over the shaft. The elongated structure may also be a fixed housing arrangement that includes an airfoil cross section for optimizing the flow of water over the shaft.
US08932090B2	Electrical connection having press-fitted partners with an OSP coating The invention relates to a solderless electrical connection (42) between a first joining partner (10, 46) and a second joining partner (24, 26; 44) for connecting an electrical component, a connector strip or a lead frame. According to the invention, the first joining partner (10, 46) or both joining partners (10, 46, 24, 26, 44) have an OSP coating (56) on their respective contact surfaces (14, 48, 54, 34, 50).
US08932088B2	Anti-turn mechanism for multiple connector sizes A conductive member for mounting a meter socket line connector includes an aperture configured to receive a fastener for the line connector and a protrusion in a different plane than that of the aperture. The protrusion includes a first notch configured to receive a first-size line connector that is secured to the conductive member by the fastener through the aperture and a second notch configured to receive a second-size line connector that is secured to the conductive member by the fastener through the aperture. The protrusion is configured to receive a corner of either the first-size line connector or the second-size line connector without changes to the conductive member.
US08932087B2	Hot line stirrup connector A stirrup connector includes a cable connecting device, a clamp, and a control section. The cable connecting device is configured to secure a tap line to the stirrup connector. The clamp secures the stirrup connector to a stirrup. The clamp includes a set of jaws forming an opening that is smaller than a diameter of the stirrup and is configured to snap onto the stirrup when the set of jaws is forced against the stirrup at the opening. The control section is configured to be releasably engaged with a hot stick and to translate a connecting force from the hotstick to the clamp to secure the clamp to the stirrup. The stirrup connector provides an electrical connection between the stirrup and the tap line when the clamp is secured to the stirrup.
US08932085B2	Electrical connector with a spacer for retaining contacts thereon An electrical connector includes an insulative housing a front opening cavity a front-to-back direction, a plurality of contacts retained in the insulative housing and a spacer attached to the insulative housing. Each of the contacts incudes a contacting portion exposed in the cavity, a soldering portion protruding from the insulative housing and a bridge portion connecting with the contacting portion and the soldering portion. A first row of the solder portions of the contacts extend rearward and a second row of soldering portions of the contacts extend forwards. The spacer has a horizontal section under the insulative housing and a vertical section at back of the insulative housing to press against the bridge portions of the second contacts.
US08932084B2	Connector system A connector system includes a pass-through connector that includes a housing with a front and a rear opposite the front. The front of the housing has a front opening, and the rear of the housing has a rear opening. The housing also has a cavity between the front opening and the rear opening. The pass-through connector also includes conductors which are held by the housing in the cavity. The system also includes a plug that is received in the cavity through the front opening. The plug has a contact holder that holds plug conductors. The contact holder has a head that is received in the cavity, and the head is configured to push contaminants from the cavity through the rear opening as the plug is loaded into the cavity.
US08932082B2	Electrical connector with improved retention structure An electrical connector mountable on a printed circuit board includes an insulative housing and pairs of power contacts. Each power contact has a contacting portion, a tail portion and an intermediate portion interconnecting the contacting portion and the tail portion. The intermediate portion is provided with a retention element in a rear edge thereof extending towards an inside wall of a passageway defined through the insulative housing. Each inside wall of the passageway forms a bump thereon extending along an insertion direction of a complementary connector. The retention element rides on the bump to thereby prevent an involuntarily anti-clockwise movement of the insulative housing with respect to the printed circuit board.
US08932078B1	Apparatus, methods, and systems for retaining a cable Apparatus, methods, and systems for coupling a cable to a printed circuit board are described herein. In some embodiments, a portion of a cable clamp is configured to be crimped about a cable having an inner conductor and an outer conductor, such as a coaxial cable. The cable clamp can have a projection configured to be inserted into an opening of a printed circuit board. The cable clamp can be configured to be fixedly coupled, for example, soldered, to the printed circuit board.
US08932077B2	Card edge connector assembly and positioning method of the same A card edge connector assembly comprising a first card edge connector comprising a first insulative housing, a pair of first latching arms disposed on opposite ends of the first insulative housing and a plurality of first conductive terminals retained in the first insulative housing; a second card edge connector including a second insulative housing, a pair of second latching arms located on the opposite ends of the second insulative housing and a plurality of second conductive terminals retained in the second insulative housing. The first and second terminals define pin-shaped solder portions respectively, wherein the first and second insulative housings define protruding portions and recessed portions mutually engaged with each other when the first and second insulative housings are disposed in a head to head arrangement. It can shorten distance between the first and second card edge connectors, which is conducive to miniaturization of connector assembly.
US08932076B2	Cord wrap and power plug receptacle arrangement for inflator A temporary mobility kit to minimize or prevent the inadvertent outflow of tire sealant is provided. The temporary mobility kit includes a switch-inflator assembly and a removable sealant assembly. The switch-inflator assembly includes a pump motor and an electrical plug assembly having a cord portion and a plug. The plug is adapted for use in the vehicle's power unit. The housing includes a peripheral channel about which the cord portion of the electrical plug assembly is wrapped when the electrical plug assembly is not in use. A plug-receiving aperture is provided to receive and retain the plug when not in use.
US08932072B2	Charging device for electrically driven vehicle A charging device starts charging a battery mounted on an electrically driven vehicle in accordance with simplified operating steps. A charging supply connector is connected to a charging port mounted on a vehicle body side. The charging supply connector includes a lock lever displaceable between a locking position, for engagement with a hook mounted on the charging port, and a lock release position where the lock lever is released from the hook. The lock lever is spring-biased to the locking position. A manipulation lever is connected to the lock lever by a link, and is operable to move the lock lever between the locking position and the lock release position. When the lock lever is at the lock release position, the lock lever, the link or the lock lever and the link interferes with an operation range of a charging start switch, to prevent operation thereof.
US08932071B2	Attachable plug-type connector Aspects herein relate to an attachable plug-type connector for attachment to a plate-like component part, in particular a device or housing wall, with an attachable housing and a contact carrier. In one implementation, the contact carrier may be arranged in the attachable housing and has at least one female or male contact in a plug-in section of the attachable plug-type connector and at least one connection element. Further, the attachable housing may have at least one plug-in stop and may include an attachable arrangement with a plate-like component part and an attachable plug-type connector.
US08932069B2	Socket module and terminal having the same A terminal in accordance with one exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure includes a terminal body, a substrate mounted onto the terminal body, and a socket module coupled to the substrate to transfer an electrical signal by being electrically connected to an inserted plug, and the socket module includes a housing having an opening at one surface thereof, the plug being inserted into the opening, and a coupling unit formed at at least one side of the housing, and slidable with respect to the substrate upon being coupled to the substrate. This may allow a substrate assembly coupled with the socket module to become slimmer by a thickness of the substrate, resulting in providing a more size-reduced terminal.
US08932065B2	Adapter for a socket of a trailer coupling An adapter for a trailer socket of a trailer coupling for coupling a trailer, wherein the adapter comprises a base body and a primary contact arrangement mounted thereon and comprising a plurality of primary contacts corresponding to a European or German standard, in particular seven primary contacts according to DIN 1724 or thirteen primary contacts according to ISO 11446, for establishing an electric connection to corresponding socket contacts of the trailer socket. The adapter comprises a secondary contact arrangement mounted on the base body with secondary contacts according to a US American standard, so that a trailer plug corresponding to the US American standard can be electrically connected to the secondary contact arrangement for the power supply of a trailer, the secondary contact arrangement and the primary contact arrangement being connected to one another via an electric connection arrangement.
US08932064B2	Electrical connector coupled to a frame rotatably coupled to a bracket and an enclosure An apparatus for supporting an electrical connection, the apparatus including attachment means for enabling the apparatus to be mounted to a surface, a frame means rotatably coupled to the attachment means, an electrical connection coupled to the frame means, and an electrical wire coupled to the electrical connection.
US08932063B2	BPH laser ablation simulation One embodiment of a Benign Prostate Hyperplasia (BPH) laser ablation simulator includes a frame, a mock hypotube, a mock laser fiber, a mock camera assembly, a laser fiber position tracker and a camera position tracker. The mock hypotube is supported by the frame, has a longitudinal axis, is received within the hypotube and is configured to move along the longitudinal axis and rotate about a laser fiber central axis relative to the hypotube. The mock camera assembly is attached to the hypotube and is configured to rotate about a camera central axis relative to the hypotube. The laser fiber position tracker is configured to output laser fiber position information that is indicative of a position of the mock laser fiber relative to the hypotube. The camera position tracker is configured camera position information that is indicative of a position of the mock camera assembly relative to the hypotube.
US08932061B2	Facilitating tactile identification of a document attribute The illustrative embodiments described herein provide an apparatus and method for facilitating tactile identification of a document attribute. In one embodiment, the apparatus includes a document. The document has a set of document attributes. The apparatus also includes a fluid incorporated within the document at a designated location associated with a document attribute in the set of document attributes. The fluid changes rigidity in the presence of an electric field to facilitate tactile identification of the document attribute.
US08932060B2	Dental treatment method Dentinal tubules sealing method using dentinal tubules sealant that is to be applied to a dentin surface to fill solid particles into dentinal tubules, wherein the dentinal tubules sealant comprises a water-based dispersing agent in which solid particles are dispersed and which has a solid/liquid ratio of from 0.3 to 2.6, and the method comprises applying the dentinal tubules sealant to a dentin surface to fill solid particles into dentinal tubules, and then removing a solid component adhering to the dentin surface by scrubbing using water. Thus, pains, hyperesthesia, and so on are allowed to be suppressed because dentinal tubules will be filled and sealed with solid particles and a curable composition is allowed to exhibit improved adhesive properties to a dentin surface because solid components adhering to the dentin surface can be removed by scrubbing using water.
US08932058B2	Impression scanning for manufacturing of dental restorations The present invention relates to a method for obtaining an accurate three-dimensional model of a dental impression, said method comprising the steps of, scanning at least a part of an upper jaw impression and/or a lower jaw impression, obtaining an impression scan, evaluating the quality of the impression scan, and use the impression scan to obtain a three-dimensional model, thereby obtaining an accurate three-dimensional model of the dental impression.
US08932057B2	Dental filing tool handle An improved handle for a dental filing tool, the tool having an arcuate handle with a horizontal bridge and opposed first and second vertical arms, the improvement including first and second sets of partial-cylindrical grip portions distributed along the outer surfaces of the first and second vertical arms, respectively, the grip portions aligned normal to the handle plane, the respective first and second sets defining convex or concave outer grip profiles and concave front-back grip profiles. An improved handle may further include an embedded socket to receive a coupler for a dental driver, or a projecting coupling to engage a dental driver coupling.
US08932056B2	Swaggering endodontic instruments Endodontic instruments are described which have at least a section with a center of mass offset from an axis of rotation so that when the instrument is rotated, the section bends away from the axis of rotation.
US08932053B2	Assembly formed by a bracket, a clip and a base for an orthodontic apparatus, and orthodontic apparatus comprising same An orthodontic assembly includes a self-ligating attachment having a groove for receiving an orthodontic arch. An elastic clip can be reversibly moved between an open position and a closed position sealing the groove. A base including an external surface and an occlusal surface, said external surface of the base supporting the attachment and said occlusal surface of the base being intended to rest on one of the patient's teeth. The aforementioned clip can be moved in an at least partially rotational manner between the open position and the closed position. Moreover, the area of the above-mentioned base that supports the attachment comprises a depression at least partially in the form of a cup and the clip is inserted into the depression when in the closed position.
US08932051B1	Dental prosthesis for cattle and method for mounting it A dental prosthesis for cattle, and method for mounting it, that includes mounting fastening members in the animals incisor, away from the central nerve and towards in the inner side of the incisor. Tying the incisors individually with surgical wire and to a support plate with through holes to immobilize the relative movement of the incisor with respect to each other. A malleable metallic overdenture is then mounted over the teeth and metallic infrastructure conforming to the incisors to define a conforming overdenture. An adhesive bonding agent is used to mount the overdenture to the incisors and the anchorage structure with retention fastening members that transversally pass through the overdenture and between the incisors to further secure the overdenture to the cured boding agent.
US08932050B2	Supply means of a rotating furnace used for calcination of oil green coke A system for calcination of oil green coke has a rotating furnace and a rotating cooler, the furnace being serviced by boiler, a combustion chamber and a chimney. There is a feeding system defined by a first mat carrying the green coke into a silo and another mat transporter to feed the furnace. At the end of the silo there are two discharge breadths for the oil green coke, where each breadth has two drawer-like feeders for feeding the green coke onto the mat transporter and, from this to the inside of the rotating furnace through a fall set.
US08932049B2	Top-burner and cooker comprising the same The present invention relates to a top burner and a cooker including the top burner. The present invention includes: an outer burner installed on a top surface of a top plate, and provided with a plurality of flame holes to form flames through combusting gas mixture at a perimeter thereof; an inner burner installed on a top surface of the outer burner, and provided with a plurality of flame holes to form flames through combusting gas mixture at a perimeter thereof disposed inward to the perimeter of the outer burner; a plurality of first mixing tubes supplying gas mixture mixed with air inside the outer burner; a second mixing tube supplying gas mixture mixed with air inside the inner burner; and a passage formed through the outer tube, and in which air supplied to combust gas mixture at the flame holes of the inner burner flows. Thus, according to the present invention, the advantages of heating food more efficiently while reducing incomplete combustion of gas mixture can be realized.
US08932048B2	Shock absorbing assembly for gas igniter A gas igniter includes a heating element, a bushing and a mounting bracket. The bushing is formed of a generally rigid electrically insulating material and supports the heating element. The bushing includes an elongated slot extending through the bushing. The mounting bracket includes a first connecting portion and a second mounting portion. The first connecting portion is inserted through the elongated slot located on the bushing for connecting the mounting bracket to the bushing. The second mounting portion is configured to attach the gas igniter to an associated support surface.
US08932044B2	Foil embossing device The foil embossing device comprises an embossing roller and two counter-rollers, one of the rollers being driven by a drive and the rollers having a configuration where the teeth, rings, or ridges project from the base cylinder, at least the embossing roller having teeth that project from the base cylinder and at least partly also serve for driving the counter-roller. To increase the uniformity of the embossing of the foil, the embossing roller has a diameter that is reduced by 0.02 to 0.20 mm over a certain length that is at least the same as the width of the foil. The length of the reduced diameter is preferably chosen so as to exceed the width of the foil being printed. Due to this depression, such a device allows a perfectly uniform embossing of foils of any kind independently of the design of the embossing rollers.
US08932038B2	Sealing apparatus for foam injection mold A sealing apparatus that includes a first mold in which a core is formed and a second mold in which a skin is formed which are combined to attach the core and the skin to seal a foaming space between the core and the skin. The apparatus further includes a slide mold installed to be moved horizontally in the first mold or the second mold to be moved forward by a restoring force of a support member to attach the skin to the core. The resilient support member is installed to support the slide mold and a position constraining member is coupled to the slide mold to release the constraint of the slide mold to allow the slide mold to be moved forward when the foaming space is sealed while the movement of the slide mold is constrained.
US08932036B2	Compressor seal assembly A compressor may include a shell, first and second scroll members, and a seal assembly. The shell defines a first and second pressure regions. The first scroll member may include a first end plate defining a chamber. The seal assembly may surround the discharge passage and fluidly separate the first and second pressure regions from each other. The seal assembly may include first and second sealing members. The first sealing member may prevent communication between the chamber and the second pressure region when a first fluid pressure within the second pressure region is higher than a second fluid pressure within the chamber. The first sealing member may define a leakage path when the first fluid pressure is lower than the second fluid pressure. The second sealing member may fluidly separate the chamber and the second pressure region when the first fluid pressure is lower than the second fluid pressure.
US08932034B2	Well pump with seal section having a labyrinth flow path in a metal bellows A submersible well pump assembly has a rotary pump, a motor, and a seal section coupled between the motor and the pump. The seal section has a cylindrical housing having upper and lower adapter and a shaft extending axially through the housing. A guide tube surrounds the shaft and a bellows surrounds the guide tube. A well fluid passage communicates well fluid to a well fluid chamber between the bellows and the housing. A guide tube passage extends axially within the guide tube between an interior and an exterior of the guide tube from an upper portion to a lower portion of the guide tube for communicating lubricant in the motor with lubricant within the bellows.
US08932032B2	Diaphragm pump and pumping systems A process fluid pump can include a pump chamber, an inlet valve, and an outlet valve. Diaphragm regions can define at least a portion of each of the pump chamber, the inlet valve, and the outlet valve. The diaphragm regions can each have an actuation region with a surface that is convexly shaped when the formed actuation region is in a natural unstressed first state, and each formed actuation region can be actuated by a motive fluid to transition to a second state in which the surface is non-convexly shaped.
US08932031B2	Modular diaphragm pumping system A pump system includes: a first coupler that receives a common input feed and provides two input feeds of fluid being drawn into the pump system, a second coupler that receives two output feeds and provides a common output feed of the pumped fluid, and a third coupler that receives a common gas feed providing two gas feeds to drive the pump system; two pumps, each having an inlet to receive a respective input feed, an outlet to provide a respective output feed of the pumped fluid, and a gas inlet to receive a respective gas feed so as to cause pumping action to drive the pump; and a base for holding the couplers with straps for attaching the two pump. The common gas feed causes pumping action in the two pumps and provides a constant almost pulsation free flow.
US08932028B2	Fan assembly A bladeless fan assembly for creating an air current includes a nozzle mounted on a base housing a device for creating an air flow. The nozzle includes an interior passage for receiving the air flow and a mouth for emitting the air flow. The nozzle defines, and extends about, an opening through which air from outside the fan assembly is drawn by the air flow emitted from the mouth. The nozzle also includes a heater for heating the air flow upstream of the mouth.
US08932027B2	Portable air pump with a pressure gauge receivable by biasing A portable air pump includes a head member located on one end of the pump body thereof and having a beveled face, a biasing member carrying a pressure gauge and having a beveled face pivotally connected to the beveled face of the head member in such a manner that the biasing member is biasable relative to the head member between a received position where the biasing member is kept in axial alignment with the portable air pump and an extended position where the pressure gauge is kept facing toward the handle of the portable air pump convenient for reading by the user and the biasing member is workable as a footplate for supporting the portable air pump on the floor for use as a floor type air pump.
US08932025B2	Rotor blade with an integrated radar absorber for a wind power plant A rotor blade comprising fiber-reinforced plastic for a wind power plant is provided with a radar absorber embedded into the fiber-reinforced plastic. The rotor blade includes a layer close to the surface with a defined electrical sheet resistivity of 100 to 800 ohm/square, which is located at a depth of 2 to 5 mm below the surface. The rotor blade also includes a layer far removed from the surface with a defined electrical sheet resistivity of at a maximum 50 ohm/square at a distance to the layer close to the surface of 5 to 16 mm. The integrated radar absorber covers one or several discrete surface sections of the rotor blade, without covering the entire surface of the rotor blade.
US08932023B2	Rotor wheel for a turbomachine A rotor wheel for a turbomachine includes a rotor wheel body having a first face and an opposing second face joined by an outer diameter surface having a centerline. A blade receiving slot is formed in the outer diameter surface and extends about the rotor wheel body. A blade loading slot is formed in the outer diameter surface. The blade loading slot is connected with and axially off-set from the blade receiving slot.
US08932021B2	Fan rotor for air cycle machine A fan rotor includes a rotor body that has plurality of fan blades for rotation about a central axis. An annular wall extends radially inward from the rotor body. A hub body extends axially from the annular wall and defines a central hub bore with a hub bore diameter Db. The hub body further defines a first cylindrical hub portion on one axial side of the annular wall and a second cylindrical hub portion on an opposite side of the annular wall. A ratio of the outer diameter of the first cylindrical hub portion to a diameter of the central hub bore is 1.996-2.007, and a ratio of the second cylindrical hub portion outer diameter to the hub bore diameter is 2.051-2.063.
US08932013B2	Guide vane and inline fan assembly An improved guide vane for an inline fan is provided, as is an inline fan assembly so characterized. The vane guide includes a first vane segment characterized by first and second end portions, and a second vane segment characterized by first and second end portions. The second end portion of the first vane segment is in a spaced apart and overlapped arrangement in relation to the first end portion of the second vane segment. The first end portion of the first vane segment is an adjacent most vane guide end portion in relation to an impeller of the fan. The first vane segment is of arcuate configuration, with the second vane segment being of linear configuration.
US08932010B2	Centrifugal fan module, heat dissipation device having the same and electric device having the heat dissipation device A centrifugal fan module, a heat dissipation device having the same and an electric device having the heat dissipation device are provided, in which the heat dissipation device includes a fin module and a centrifugal fan module including a volute-shaped frame and a centrifugal fan pivoted in the volute-shaped frame. The volute-shaped frame includes an air inlet, a larger air outlet and a smaller air outlet. The air inlet and the smaller air outlet are both on the same surface of the volute-shaped frame. The larger air outlet is coupled to the fin module. The smaller air outlet is arranged correspondingly to a maximum wind-speed flowing path of the centrifugal fan.
US08932005B2	Archimedean modular / multi-axis rotor (AMR) An Archimedean Modular/Multi-Axis Rotor (AMR) is a wind/fluid driven electrical generating device as described which utilizes a single foil rotor and appears in an elongated Archimedean curve tapering at its ends. A plurality of AMR's can be assembled in a multiplicity of tetrahedral or other 3-dimensional type structures that generate electric power. These structures would be manufactured to facilitate easy shipping, handling, assembly, erection and maintenance. The AMR is quiet (no prop buffeting), bird friendly, can accommodate any varying orientations to the wind/fluid direction and continues to operate even when in the direct shadow of adjacent AMR rotors.
US08932002B2	Air turbine starter An air turbine starter is provided and includes a rotor including turbine blades, which is rotatable about a rotational axis, a housing including a portion thereof radially surrounding the turbine blades to define a pathway along which fluids flow to interact with the turbine blades and a containment ring affixed to an exterior of the portion of the housing radially surrounding the turbine blades.
US08932001B2	Systems, methods, and apparatus for a labyrinth seal Certain embodiments of the invention may include systems, methods and apparatus for providing a labyrinth seal. In an example embodiment, a method is provided for sealing a flow path between a stationary element and a rotating element of a turbomachine. The method can include disposing at least one fixture on an inner surface of a stationary element associated with the turbomachine; disposing a packing ring linked via a spring element to the fixture wherein the packing ring comprises at least one bore; and disposing, according to a predetermined profile, a plurality of interdigitated packing ring teeth and rotor teeth intermediate to the packing ring and the rotating element; wherein the bore, packing ring teeth, and rotor teeth, cooperate to counter a moment associated with one or more axial forces.
US08931994B2	Lift accessory The present invention is a lift accessory for aerial lifts and related machines. The lift accessory includes sets of retractable supports for materials around the perimeter of an aerial lift platform. In a preferred embodiment, two accessories would be installed on opposite ends of the lift platform. Typically, the accessory is based upon a section of steel tubing. The inside end may be pivotally attached via a bolt or other appropriate attachment means to a railing on a work platform of the lift.
US08931991B2	Moldable wire thread insert, method for its production, component with a moldable wire thread insert as well as a method for its production A moldable wire thread insert 1 for reinforcing a screw-in opening of a component has the following characteristics: a cylindrical spiral 20 made of a helically, wound wire 10, the neighboring coils 30 of which are arranged such that a closed cylindrical spiral wall 22, 24 is present, while at least one end of the cylindrical spirals 20 has a fastening flange 40, which extends radially outwards over the cylindrical spiral wall 22, 24 and with which the wire thread insert 1 is anchorable in the component and/or one end of the cylindrical spiral 20 is designed in a planar manner in order to form an even axial front surface of the cylindrical spiral 20.
US08931990B2	Pierce nut and use thereof A pierce nut (1) for attachment to a plastically deformable metal sheet (4) has an abutment surface (14) adapted to abut against the metal sheet (4), an undercut pilot (11) protruding relatively to the abutment surface (14), and a countersunk groove (16a, 16b) which is formed in the abutment surface (14) and at least partly surrounds the pilot (11). The groove (16a, 16b) is without active undercuts facing the pilot (11). The groove comprises an inner groove (16a) and an outer groove (16b) and a ridge (17) located therebetween.
US08931988B2	Screw grommet A plastic screw grommet includes a head portion provided with a screwing hole for a tapping screw, and a leg portion expanded or prevented from deflecting by screwing the tapping screw. A hole diameter of the screwing hole is made smaller than an outer diameter of the above-mentioned tapping screw and larger than a root diameter of the tapping screw. Also, a projecting portion for filling a screw groove of the tapping screw to be screwed is formed in an inner face of the screwing hole.
US08931987B2	Cargo area divider assembly A pickup truck cargo area separator is provided that operably divides the cargo area of a pickup truck into distinct segments using slidably adjustable members. A first member is positioned laterally across a pickup truck cargo area, while a second member slidably connects to the first member to form a T-shaped divider assembly. The T-shaped assembly separates the cargo area into three defined zones. The members are lengthwise adjustable using a telescoping construction and are lockable in a static state once deployed, wherein the members abut against the interior surfaces of the cargo area to remain in place during use. End caps positioned on the lateral member ensure a tight fitment thereof across the cargo bed, while the height of the members act as internal barriers within the cargo area for confining cargo items in specific zones during transport.
US08931986B2	End stop device, cargo loading system and aircraft An end stop device for restraining an ULD from movement across a cargo deck surface of an aircraft includes a main body; and a mounting interface connected to the main body which is configured and arranged to attach the end stop device to the cargo deck by means of a corresponding tie down ring. Each mounting interface includes a tongue-like support plate which is partially protruding below a bottom side of the main body, at least one recess arranged in an area above the support plate, wherein side walls of the recess form a frame-like structure. and a bolt portion extending from the support plate into the recess and partially surrounded by the frame-like structure. The bolt portion is configured to engage the tie down ring in an operation mode where the end stop device is fixed to a tie down ring.
US08931985B2	System and method for modularization of a schnabel car A system and method for modularization of a Schnabel car is disclosed herein. Specifically disclosed is a modular Schnabel car comprising two Schnabel sections, each connectable to and capable of supporting a load. The Schnabel sections can comprise a Schnabel arm comprising an arm base and arm end, in which the end is connectable to the load. Furthermore, the Schnabel sections can comprise a load spreader having a spreader apex and a plurality of spreader bases and a first quick connect system that connects the arm base to a spreader apex. The load spreader can comprise a span bolster. The first quick connect system can comprise a first connector connected to the arm base and a second connector attached to a spreader apex. The first connector can be mateable with the second connector.
US08931984B2	Processing head The present invention relates to a processing head for processing machines, preferably tooth milling and tooth grinding machines, comprising a direct drive which is arranged in a processing head bed of a processing machine, wherein the direct drive comprises at least two motors actuatable in synchronism with each other.
US08931983B2	Milling tool assembly having a replaceable cutter A milling tool assembly has a replaceable cutter and a reusable shank connected to the cutter with a detachable joint. The joint may be, for example, a threaded connection. An intermediate alignment sleeve made of an elastic or semi-elastic material, is positioned between the cutter and the shank about the axis of rotation of the shank.
US08931981B2	Pull reamer In order to allow high-precision machining of the inner surface of a pipe using little machining time, the draw broach has a cutting part having a plurality of cutters extending in the axial draw direction. The cutting part is divided into a main part and an insertion part tapering conically in the draw direction. The insertion part in turn is divided into a front region, viewed in the draw direction, forming a pre-cutting stage, and a rear region, wherein the conicity of the pre-cutting stage is less than that of the rear region.
US08931980B2	Tap and die devices Tap and die devices are provided to repair internal and external threads, respectively. The tap and die devices are provided with components that coaxially align the tap and die to the nut or fitting being repaired. The tap and die devices are easily portable, compact tools that can be used in tight places.
US08931977B2	Pipe stand A pipe support has an outer tubular support wall, an inner tubular support wall, spaced inwardly from the outer tubular support wall, and a connecting portion for maintaining the outer tubular support wall and the inner tubular support wall in a fixed, spaced apart relationship. The pipe support is intended for use in-trench and out-of-trench for supporting a pipeline during assembly, installation, testing and operation.
US08931976B2	Tsunami breakwater wall of multilayered steel pipe pile structure and its construction method A tsunami breakwater wall of a multilayered steel pipe pile structure 1, includes a multilayered steel pipe pile 2 where a bottom end thereof reaches a predetermined depth of a support layer 28 and is installed to a ground 26 such that an upper end thereof protrudes upward from a ground surface 26a, and a wall body 15 constructed integral with a part of the multilayered steel pipe pile 2 that protrudes upward from the ground surface 26a. The multilayered steel pipe pile 2 is made from a plurality of large diameter steel pipe piles 3-5 of different diameters, an upper end of an inner most side steel pipe pile 3 protrudes upward from the ground surface 26a, and the wall body 15 is constructed to a part of the steel pipe pile 3 protruding upward from the ground surface 26a.
US08931974B2	Building machine comprising a signaling device A self propelled building machine includes a drive, a cover covering the drive, a control platform and a material hopper which includes a filling hole and that can be filled with material by an external supply unit. The building machine is further provided with a signaling device for signaling material filling parameters to the external supply unit. In addition, the building machine comprises at least one external mirror, wherein the at least one external mirror and the signaling device are attached to the building machine by means of a common holder.
US08931973B2	Arrangement and method for connecting an accessory part to an operating table An accessory part to be connected to an operating table has a connecting element (12, 16) and a component part of the operating table has a receiving area (14) for receiving at least an area of the connecting element (12, 16). An engagement element (22, 24) projects laterally from the connecting element (12, 16). The receiving area (14) has at least one guideway (18, 20) with which the engagement element (22, 24) engages during insertion of at least an area of the connecting element (12, 16) into the receiving area (14). When deformed, an elastically deformable element (52) exerts a force on the engagement element (22, 24). By the force exerted on the engagement element (22, 24) and by the course of the guideway (18, 20) a force (FA) is exerted in the direction of insertion (P2) on the connecting element (12, 16) when the accessory part and the operating table are connected.
US08931972B2	Thermal module mount structure A thermal module mount structure including a first mount body and a second mount body. The first mount body defines therein a first passage and has multiple engaging sections inward extending into the first passage. The second mount body is disposed in the first passage and has multiple complementary engaging sections complementary to the engaging sections. Each of the complementary engaging sections has a moving space and multiple engaging splits in communication therewith. The second mount body is vertically displaceable within the first passage, whereby the first and second mount bodies can be relatively rotated to insert the engaging sections into the engaging splits at different heights. Accordingly, the height of the mount structure is changeable by means of adjusting the second mount body in accordance with different heights of radiating fins. Therefore, the mount structure has high commonness so that the cost for developing the molds is reduced.
US08931969B2	Specialized keyboard for electronic devices The invention provides large, vertically elongated keyboard keys strategically chosen and positioned above the alphanumeric section of a standard keyboard (e.g. a laptop PC keyboard) to provide a more ergonomic keyboard arrangement. The invention provides for keys that appropriately address the needs of touch typists when striking frequently used keys located above the alphanumeric section of the keyboard.
US08931968B2	Portable device with display function A portable device has a display, a display processor displays a magnification image on a screen of the display, and an input device. The portable device further has a display-area shift processor that shifts the magnification-image-display area in accordance to an input operation administered to the input device, and a position sensor that detects an angle of inclination of the body. Then, The display processor changes the magnification-image-display area to an image area that is inclined by an angle corresponding to the angle of inclination, and the display-area shift processor changes shift directions of the magnification-image-display area from vertical and lateral directions of the original image to directions that are perpendicular to each other and correspond to inclined vertical and lateral directions rotated by the angle of inclination.
US08931967B2	Imaging apparatus When an imaging apparatus performs normal image-capturing, an energization control unit energizes a driving source to move a body release lever from a locking position to a releasing position, and then does not energize the driving source. When the imaging apparatus performs continuous image-capturing, the energization control unit energizes the driving source to move the body release lever from the locking position to the releasing position, and then energizes the driving source to regulate bounding of the body release lever.
US08931965B2	Optical connector for decreasing loss of optical signal transmission An optical connector includes an insulative housing, an optical module movably retained on the insulative housing, and a spring being assembled between the insulative housing and the optical module along a front to back direction. The optical module has a hemispheric projection at a rear side thereof. The spring has a first end positioned on the insulative housing and a second end ringing on the projection and resisting against a hemispheric surface of the projection. The second end moves on the hemispheric surface of the projection when the spring is compressed to move upwardly or laterally.
US08931962B2	Dual orientation connector with side contacts The present disclosure relates generally to connectors such as audio connectors and in particular to a dual orientation audio connector with side audio contacts that can be used in place of standard audio connectors. The connector has an intuitive insertion orientation and a smooth, consistent feel when inserted and extracted from its corresponding receptacle connector. A corresponding connector jack may be configured to receive the dual orientation audio connector.
US08931960B2	High speed ball bearing for dental or medical handpieces A bearing assembly (20) for use in a medical, surgical, or dental handpiece (10) that enables spindle rotation for a supported rotary tool (36) at high speeds. The bearing assembly (28) incorporates annular gap shields (50, 54) at each axial end to prevent contaminate ingress and to retain lubricating grease within the bearing assembly (28) to avoid re-lubricated after each use or sterilization cycle.
US08931959B2	Roller bearing with at least two rows of rolling elements, in particular for a tunneler The roller bearing comprises an inner ring, an outer ring, at least one row of rolling elements which are arranged between the rings in order to form an axial thrust which can transmit axial forces, and a row of rolling elements arranged between the rings in order to form a radial thrust which can transmit radial forces. The inner ring comprises an annular groove which extends towards the interior from an outer surface of the ring, and forms a raceway for the rolling elements of the radial thrust.
US08931955B2	Food packaging sheet for use in microwave ovens A composite or laminate film or sheet of plastics material for use in microwave ovens comprises at least three layers of plastics material bonded and/or adhered together and with the central layer being of unoriented plastics material or of less oriented material relative to the orientation of the plastics material(s) of the outer layers, and/or being of lower melting point materials than the outer layers.
US08931950B2	Device for calorimetric measurement In one aspect, provided herein is a single crystal silicon microcalorimeter, for example useful for high temperature operation and long-term stability of calorimetric measurements. Microcalorimeters described herein include microcalorimeter embodiments having a suspended structure and comprising single crystal silicon. Also provided herein are methods for making calorimetric measurements, for example, on small quantities of materials or for determining the energy content of combustible material having an unknown composition.
US08931941B2	Vehicular light-emitting diode light providing uniform wider illumination A vehicular light includes a body having a base. A cover is mounted to a surface of the base and made of transparent material. A circuit board is mounted in the base. A light emitting element is mounted to the circuit board. An intermediate member is mounted between the cover and the circuit board. The intermediate member includes a light transmittable section covering the light emitting element. A frame is mounted between the light transmittable section and the light emitting element and has a substantially bowl-shaped inner side. The frame and the intermediate member are separable from each other and detachable from the cover and the circuit board. The frame includes a frame wall. A through-hole is formed in a bottom of the frame. The light emitting element extends through the through-hole and received in the frame and faces the light transmittable section.
US08931939B2	LED luminaire, particularly LED headlight LED luminaire, particularly LED headlight, comprising an active light source (2) composed of a plurality of LEDs (21-26) that have the same color or different colors and are arranged on a flat or curved surface (20, 200) or circuit board and an optical system comprising a collimation optics unit (3), the individual lenses of which are arranged in a small distance above the emission surfaces of the LEDs (21-26) and which collects and focuses the light (L1-L4) emitted by the LEDs and directed onto a surface, a mixing optical unit (4), which receives the light (K1, K2, E) that has been directed onto a surface and focussed and mixes it in terms of the color and/or brightness, and a field optics unit (5) which receives the light (M1, M2 or N1, N2) emitted by the mixing optics unit (4) and emits it with pre-determined light distribution (F1-F4) to the far field.
US08931937B2	Bollard light with internal compression support system A lighted bollard system that has significantly enhanced internal structural strength while providing for the replacement of the outer bollard cover and that allows users to select from a plurality of different lighting fixtures suited for different applications.
US08931936B1	Height adjustable pendant lamp canopy assembly A height-adjustable pendant lamp canopy assembly with an overhead-mounted junction box; a base-plate mounted transformer therein; an apertured insulating spacer plate below the base plate; a releasable cord grip with a threaded lower end protruding through the aperture; and, a clamping nut securing, releasably, the canopy cover on the end of the cord grip. A cord braid connector has a metal body with a cord-receiving, through-socket, a terminating portion for a fixture ground wire, and, a transverse screw hole. A braid-clamping, metal collar is clamped around braid of cord extending through the through-socket with the collar stuffed axially into the through-socket; and a clamping screw in the screw hole anchoring the metal collar and braid in the through-socket in a permanent electrical connection of the braid and the connector body, irrespective of limited lamp raising or lowering movement of the lamp power cord.
US08931935B2	Air cooling LED lamp An air cooling LED lamp is disclosed. The lamp has air passages for natural air flow for cooling the lamp without using any electric fan to reduce electric energy consumption. The air passages still work for natural air cooling for the lamp when the lamp is configured either in a top down position or in a lateral position.
US08931934B2	LED lamp with vertical airflow channel An LED lamp includes a heat sink, a lamp shell and a light module. The heat sink includes a substrate and a plurality of fins. The substrate has a top surface and a bottom surface. The lamp shell is fixed to a periphery of the substrate. The light module is received between the lamp shell and the bottom surface of the substrate of the heat sink. The substrate defines a first through-hole through the top and bottom surfaces thereof to communicate airflow channels between the fins with a space below the bottom surface of the substrate, wherein the light module is received in the space.
US08931926B2	Reflector luminaire A reflector luminaire with a light-emitting means and a reflector, which reflects light from the light-emitting means which is incident on said reflector in a predetermined emission direction and which has a rim (2) which points towards the emission direction makes it possible to perform particular lighting tasks, for example the uniform illumination of a rectangular illumination area by virtue of the fact that the reflector comprises a plurality of differently designed segments (7), which are calculated individually with respect to the light-emitting means for defined illumination of a predetermined area, and by the fact that the segments (7) are joined to one another by transition sections (8), by means of which the predetermined reflecting total surface area of the segments (7) is reduced by less than ¼.
US08931924B2	Heat sink for LED lamp A LED lamp is disclosed which is composed of a plurality of light unit, each of the light unit has metal its leads inserted into a heat sink for heat dissipation. A circuit board is optionally to use for electrically coupling the metal leads of each light unit to a control circuit for controlling the on/off of each of the light units.
US08931923B2	LED down lamp with replaceable color temperature filter A light emitting diode (LED) down lamp with a replaceable color temperature filter uses a plurality of blue LEDs as a light source and includes a color temperature filter and a fixing ring. The color temperature filter is installed across the top of the down lamp to apart cover the LEDs with a distance, and then fixed by the fixing ring. Therefore, the color temperature filter can be replaced flexibly with other one in different color temperature one by removing or assembling the fixing ring to change the light projected from the LEDs into different color tone for fitting studio, stage or indoor space applications. Such lamp achieves the effects of enhancing the illumination function of a single down lamp, reducing the inventory cost and improving the practicality.
US08931922B2	Ceramic wavelength-conversion plates and light sources including the same A wavelength-conversion plate is described herein. The wavelength conversion plate may include a converter of a first ceramic material and a reflector of a second ceramic material. The first ceramic material converts the primary light emitted by a light source such as a light emitting diode (LED) into a secondary light and the second ceramic material reflects the secondary light emitted by said converter. Preferably, the converter is inlaid into the reflector so that the reflector surrounds an outer edge of the converter. Such a configuration has an advantage of reducing unwanted side emissions from the converter.
US08931921B2	Lighting device A lighting device may be provided to include a heat sink which includes a receiving recess and a top surface including a hole; a light source module which includes a substrate disposed on the heat sink, a light emitting device disposed on the substrate and a pad disposed on the substrate; a power supplier which is disposed in the receiving recess of the heat sink and includes a projection outputting a power signal for driving the light source module; and a connector which is coupled to the hole of the heat sink, includes a contacting part electrically connected to the pad of the light source module, and is electrically connected to the projection of the power supplier.
US08931920B2	Optic for an LED array A light assembly (100) for directing light into a light guide utilizes a light source (120) comprising a linear array of light emitting diodes (140). The linear array has two opposed long sides (160, 180) equally disposed about a longitudinal axis (162) and two opposed short sides (200, 220) and is positioned in a mounting plane (240). The array has an optical plane (250) lying in a plane perpendicular to the mounting plane (240). A primary optic (260) having a reflecting surface (270) is associated therewith, the reflecting surface (270) having a parabolic cross-section and a focal point (280) and a bisector of parabolic cross-section (282) wherein the focal point (280) is disposed at one of the long sides (160, 180) of the array (140) and the bisector of parabolic cross-section (282) has an axis (283) that is tilted with respect to the optical plane (250). In a preferred embodiment, the axis (283) of the bisector of parabolic cross-section (282) is tilted about 8 degrees. The construction provides an arrangement for feeding light from the array into a light guide.
US08931919B2	Lighting unit and luminaire for road and/or street lighting A lighting unit for use in a luminaire, in particular a luminaire for road and/or street lighting, has an adaptable light distribution wherein the lighting unit comprises at least two light sources or groups of light sources, each of the light sources or groups of light sources having an individual light distribution characteristic, wherein the overall light distribution of the lighting unit is adapted by modifying the ratio of the light outputs of the at least two light sources or groups of light sources
US08931917B1	Work light for multi-occasions A work light for multi-occasions includes a rectangular lamp body, and a radiating surface disposed on a front side for connecting with a power cord. Radially protruded heat dissipating fins and spacedly apart heat dissipating grooves are formed on cross sections besides the radiating surface of the rectangular lamp body. One end cover coupled to one end surface is disposed with a switch for controlling the radiating surface, and another end cover coupled to another end surface is disposed with a power socket. At least one fixing device includes a platy fastener with fastening portions oppositely formed at two ends for slidably fastening in the heat dissipating grooves on an outer wall of the rectangular lamp body. A flexible supporting rod is disposed with coupling portions at two ends for coupling with coupling holes of the fastener and the magnetic fixing element.
US08931913B2	Trunk of motorcycle A motorcycle is provided a trunk having a storage compartment. The trunk includes a trunk body member having an upper opening, and including an outer body member and an inner body member provided inside the outer body member, and a lid member attached to the trunk body member so as to cover the opening of the trunk body member and provided with a lamp device for illuminating a rear side of the trunk, the lid member including an outer lid member and an inner lid member provided inside the outer lid member. A wire cord of the lamp device is passed through a gap between the outer lid member and the inner lid member and a gap between the outer body member and the inner body member.
US08931908B2	Air purge collar An air purge apparatus and method is presented to protect an imaging system from contamination by particulate matter and other substances in the ambient environment. The apparatus is adapted to be placed adjacent to a viewing window, lens or optics of an imaging system and to provide a protective flow of air. The apparatus includes a curved surface to direct air from a first plenum toward an imaging path in front of the apparatus. The apparatus also includes one or more openings nearer the lens to direct air from a second plenum into the imaging path. The air from the first plenum entrains air from the second plenum and ambient air to create a fluid stream away from the viewing window, lens, or optics and may form a fluid barrier to reduce contamination of a volume of air in the imaging path of the imaging sensor.
US08931904B2	Control method of a fundus examination apparatus A control method of a fundus examination apparatus configured to examine a fundus of an examinee's eye, includes: processing an examination data obtained by one of fundus examination apparatuses, which are a perimeter configured to measure a visual field and an optical coherence tomography device configured to obtain a tomographic image of the fundus, to thereby obtain positional information relating to an abnormal site of the fundus; setting an examination position on the fundus in the other fundus examination apparatus which is the perimeter or the optical coherence tomography device based on the positional information; and examining the abnormal site of the fundus by controlling the other fundus examination apparatus based on the set examination position.
US08931902B2	Illumination device for a stereomicroscope, in particular a surgical microscope The present invention relates to an illumination device for a stereomicroscope, in particular a surgical microscope for eye surgery, having at least one light source (10), a collector lens system (14), an aperture diaphragm (16), a condenser lens system (18), and an objective (22), illumination light being directed from the light source (10) through the collector lens system (14), the aperture diaphragm (16), the condenser lens system (18), and the objective (22) into the object plane (E19), the aperture diaphragm (16) being provided as a double orifice plate or four-orifice plate.
US08931901B2	Ophthalmologic apparatus An ophthalmologic apparatus includes a projection optical system configured to project a light flux on a subject's eye, a beam splitting member configured to form a split optical path corresponding to a light flux from a subject's eye, and an image-forming optical system configured to receive via the beam splitting member a light flux from the subject's eye, the image-forming optical system including an optical element having an optical characteristic that reduces astigmatism generated by the beam splitting member.
US08931895B2	Adjustable eyeglasses cord An adjustable eyeglasses cord structure is provided, which mainly comprises two temple sleeves, two spherical plugs, two retaining buckles and a cord. The open end of each temple sleeve has an accommodation space for receiving the temple and the tail end has a spherical chamber corresponding to the spherical plug. Both ends of the cord are inserted and fixed in the retaining buckles which are then disposed within the spherical plugs. Each spherical plug is disposed in the spherical chamber of the temple sleeve. A slot is provided in the spherical chamber for the cord to pass through. In this manner, a cord having stiffness can be deflected to adjust an angle adaptable to use. Temple sleeve with flexibility can facilitate the in-out of the spherical plug so as to enable the function of adjusting the cord angle and the convenience for both assembly and disassembly.
US08931893B2	Multi-purpose eyeglasses A pair of multi-purpose eyeglasses is revealed. It has a pair of eyeglasses having a mounting stand provided on the upper end of a nose pad, the mounting stand having a buckling portion and positioning portion provided thereon; and an auxiliary lens frame having a buckling rod provided at the front end of a nose bridge connecting two lens holding sub-frames, the buckling rod being press-fitted and fixed into the buckling portion. The eyeglasses may he a pair of sports sunglasses or a pair of ski goggles. The eyeglasses and the auxiliary lens frame can be easily and quickly assembled with or disassembled from each other according to a user's intention.
US08931890B2	Method and apparatus for leveling a printed image and preventing image offset An approach is provided for contact leveling an image applied to a media substrate. The approach involves causing, at least in part, a contact leveling member comprising at least one textured surface configured to repel one or more inks to level an image applied to the media substrate. The at least one textured surface may comprise one or more micro/nano structures configured to cause, at least in part, the at least one textured surface to have an ink contact angle greater than 100° and a sliding angle less than 30° when the at least one textured surface contacts the one or more inks.
US08931888B2	Printing fluid cartridge and printing apparatus A printing fluid cartridge includes a front face oriented toward a first direction, a printing fluid supply portion positioned at the front face, a rear face positioned opposite the front face and oriented toward a second direction opposite the first direction, an electrical interface positioned between the front face and the rear face and facing, and an engagement surface facing in the second direction.
US08931887B2	Liquid consumption apparatus, liquid supply member, and liquid supply system A liquid consumption apparatus, onto which a liquid supply member is mounted, includes a liquid delivery unit, a liquid accepting unit and an abutting section. The liquid delivery unit is configured to deliver a liquid from the liquid supply member. The liquid accepting unit is provided below the liquid delivery unit. The abutting section abuts against the liquid supply member. The liquid accepting unit is provided to the abutting section. In a state where the abutting section and the liquid supply member abut against each other, the liquid accepting unit protrudes out closer toward the liquid supply member than a surface where the liquid supply member and the abutting section abut against each other.
US08931884B2	Printing apparatus A wide-format printing apparatus can suppress a posture variation of a carriage to improve landing accuracy of ink, and can reduce an HP (head to platen) distance to the minimum gap, thus achieving higher image quality and mass-production performance. The HP distance, the main rail and the sub rail are adjustable, and the curve amount of both rails is made to be in agreement with the curve amount of the platen. After that, the adjustment for minimizing the local deformation of both rails is performed.
US08931875B2	Inkjet printing apparatus and inkjet printing method There is provided an inkjet printing apparatus which can output a stable image without density unevenness by performing appropriate drive control to print elements based upon an appropriate representative temperature of a chip whatever image data is printed on a print medium. For this purpose, detection temperatures of a plurality of temperature sensors are lined up in high temperature order, and coefficients by which the respective detection temperatures are multiplied, are determined to be associated with that order at the lining-up, determining a representative temperature by the weighted average method. The common drive pulse associated with to the individual chip based upon the representative temperature thus obtained, to be applied thereto. Thereby even if temperature variations of print elements on the chip exist, it is possible to appropriately control the entire chip in temperature.
US08931871B2	Driving device of liquid-jet head, liquid-jet device and method for driving liquid-jet head Disclosed is a driving device of a liquid-jet head having a piezoelectric device arranged for each of nozzles and having mutually facing electrodes. The driving device includes switching devices connected in parallel to each other, one of the electrodes being connected to first ends of the switching devices for selectively ON/OFF controlling the switching devices while the other electrode is connected to a reference potential, a driving signal source to generate a driving signal connected to second ends of the switching devices, and a control unit to switch the driving signal to ON or OFF control the switching devices. At least one of the switching devices has electrically conducting properties for not ejecting a liquid drop from the nozzle with a driving signal being applied to the switching device in an ON-controlled status, and the switching devices are all ON-controlled for causing the nozzles to eject liquid drops.
US08931869B2	Inkjet printing apparatus and inkjet printing method In a serial type of color inkjet printing apparatus having a plurality of nozzle arrays, overlapping areas are provided in the respective operating nozzle areas, but printing of a high-quality image can be achieved without color banding and gloss variations accompanying non-uniformity in the ink application process. To attain this, while the operating nozzle areas of the plurality of nozzle arrays partially overlap with each other, the overlapping area of the operating nozzle area of each nozzle array is set to be equal to an integral multiple of the amount of conveyance. In consequence, the ink application process for the entire image area is made uniform.
US08931868B2	Ink jet recording apparatus An ink jet recording apparatus has a first discharge port array in which discharge ports of a plurality of nozzles which discharge an ink composition containing an inorganic pigment are disposed side by side, a second discharge port array in which discharge ports of a plurality of nozzles which discharge an ink composition containing a coloring material other than the inorganic pigment are disposed side by side, a nozzle plate having the first discharge port array and the second discharge port array, a liquid repellent film provided on the nozzle plate, a wiping member which wipes the surface of the nozzle plate and has absorbability of the ink composition, in which, in a series of operations in which the surface of the nozzle plate is wiped by the wiping member, the second discharge port array is wiped in priority to the first discharge port array.
US08931863B2	Consumer appliance drawer with improved anti-racking system A consumer appliance, such as a refrigerator, includes a compartment having opposite sides and a bottom wall. A pull-out drawer is configured above the bottom wall of the compartment. A slide assembly is configured on each opposite side of the compartment and includes a base mounted to the compartment and a slide member linearly moveable along the base. The pull-out drawer has a slide bracket mounted to each respective slide member for movement of the drawer into and out of the compartment. A bottom slide assembly has a slide member and a base mounted on the bottom wall of the compartment. A cross bar is connected to and spans between the slide brackets below the pull-out drawer and is connected to the slide member of the bottom slide assembly.
US08931859B2	Consumer appliance such as dishwasher with soft open door mechanism A consumer appliance has a soft open door mechanism. The mechanism may include a damping device with a first end mounted to the cabinet and a second end mounted so as to move with the door. The damping device includes a partial fill damper activatable by an opening movement of the door toward the horizontal position to provide an opposing force to slow the door motion. The damper may be configured so as to initiate the opposing force only when the door has moved at least about 45 degrees from the upright position toward the horizontal position, and/or may be configured so that the damper includes a damping coefficient of about 200 to about 240 lb*s/ft.
US08931856B2	Brake control apparatus and method for controlling the same A brake control apparatus obtains a required braking force using a hydraulic braking force in combination with a regenerative braking force. The brake control apparatus includes a hydraulic brake unit that controls the hydraulic braking force. When the deviation of an actual hydraulic pressure from a target pressure falls outside a permissible range (d), the hydraulic brake unit controls the actual hydraulic pressure in such a manner that the deviation falls within the permissible range. On the other hand, when the deviation is within the permissible range (d), the hydraulic brake unit maintains the actual hydraulic pressure. The hydraulic brake unit includes a control unit that detects timing (Ta) at which usage of the hydraulic braking force needs to be started to compensate for a deficiency from the required braking force, and that raises (r) the target pressure at the detected timing (ta).
US08931845B2	Vehicle seat A vehicle seat including: a base member; a rotary member which is connected to the base member by a pin and is configured to be rotatable with respect to the base member; and a spring attached between the base member and the rotary member and urging the rotary member with respect to the base member in a rotating direction, wherein the spring abuts an outer circumference of the pin, and wherein the pin is integrally coupled to the rotary member.
US08931841B2	Synchronous mechanism for a chair A synchronous mechanism for a chair, such as an office chair, including a base unit, a seat support arranged above and moveably on the base unit, a backrest support arranged on the base unit so as to be capable of being pivoted about a pivot axis oriented horizontally and in transverse direction of the chair, and a prestressing device. The prestressing device exerts a prestressing force acting upwards on the seat support and forwards on the backrest support. The seat support is connected to the base unit via a coupling mechanism providing movability of the seat support relative to the base unit. The coupling mechanism is arranged to positively control the movements of the seat support relative to the base unit such that the seat support can be moved back and forth on its own between positions which are parallel to one another when the backrest support is fixed.
US08931839B1	Infant stimulation and learning apparatus An infant stimulation and learning apparatus includes an isolation device and an environmental monitoring and control system. The isolation device is constructed as an infant carrier having an isolation canopy hingedly affixed thereto. The environmental monitoring and control system includes an audio-visual display system, media player, fresh air circulation system and infant monitoring system. A video screen, forming part of the audio-visual display system, is mounted to the interior surface of the isolation canopy. The fresh air circulation system includes a blower for conveying air into and through the interior space of the isolation device and a filter for removing particulate matter from the airflow prior to introduction to the isolation device. Means for securing the infant stimulation and learning apparatus in an automobile seat and an infant stroller and an infant restraint are provided. The infant monitoring system transmits video, sound and temperature to a remote location.
US08931837B2	Thoracic back support A thoracic back support sits vertically against the back portion of a chair/seat in which a force is transmitted through the thoracic area of the spine of a user. The thoracic back support has an interior resilient substrate that is divided by a shallow groove that extends from the lower cervical spine to the upper lumbar spine. The groove helps to reduce any stress over the spinous processes as the individual leans back against the thoracic back support. When the resilient substrate is compressed, a force is primarily directed into the soft tissue areas adjacent to the spine which allows for the thoracic spine to move into a maximally neutral position.
US08931835B1	Apparatus for protecting an internal structure of a vehicle from heat and/or sunlight, and methods of making and using the same Apparatuses for protecting internal structures of a vehicle from environmental factors, such as light and/or heat, and methods of making and using such apparatuses are described. The apparatus reflects sunlight, ultra-violet rays, and/or heat away from the internal structure(s) of a vehicle, such as the seats, the steering wheel, and/or the gear shift. Therefore, absorption of heat and sunlight is minimized or prevented while the vehicle is parked in the sun. The apparatuses cover the entire major surface(s) of the internal structure(s), and thus enable an individual to immediately sit on or contact the interior structures of the vehicle without experiencing pain or discomfort when entering the vehicle.
US08931833B2	Self-adjusting head restraint A vehicle seat may include a seat bottom, a seatback and a head restraint. The seatback may engage the seat bottom and may be movable relative thereto between a normal use position and a second position. The head restraint may be coupled to the seatback and may include front and rear portions attached to each other for relative movement therebetween. The front and rear portions may define a first thickness when the seatback is in the normal use position and a second thickness when the seatback is in the second position.
US08931828B2	Grill opening reinforcement assembly A grill opening reinforcement (GOR) assembly of a vehicle is provided. The GOR assembly includes a shutter body formed to define a first opening, a front fascia and a seal. The shutter body includes a top portion, first and second side support members and a bottom portion. The front fascia is formed to define a second opening and is supportively attachable to the shutter body. The seal is disposable on a leading edge of at least one of the first and second side support members and the bottom portion and is configured to define an airflow path from the second opening to the first opening.
US08931825B2	Vehicle front structure A vehicle front structure includes: an exterior member provided at a lower portion of a front end of a vehicle; and an energy absorbing bracket having front and rear ends, the front end facing a rear surface of the exterior member and the rear end being mounted on a vehicle structural member. The energy absorbing bracket has an upper surface which is disposed to be inclined downward toward a front of the vehicle, and the inclination increases continuously or stepwise from a rear of the vehicle to the front of the vehicle, lower vehicle width direction ribs which project downward from the upper surface, extend substantially in a vehicle width direction, and are disposed in a vehicle front-rear direction, and lower vehicle front-rear direction ribs which project downward from the upper surface, extend substantially in the vehicle front-rear direction, and disposed in the vehicle width direction.
US08931819B2	Open bed vehicle cover and storage system Technologies and implementations related to open bed vehicle cover and storage systems are generally disclosed.
US08931813B2	Rotary lock providing positive latching indicia A rotary lock including a housing having a strike channel shaped to receive a strike component and a latch member including at least one strike engaging member. The latch member is rotatable between an unlatched position, a secondary latch position and a primary latch position. A keeper member is moveable between a disengaged position, a secondary keeper position, and a primary keeper position. A lock member is moveable between a lock position and an unlock position. The lock member and/or a lock actuator is non-movable to the lock position when the latch member is in the secondary latch position, thereby providing indicia that the latch member is not fully latched in a primary latch position. Methods of assembly and use are also provided.
US08931812B1	Multi-point sliding door latch A multi-point sliding door latch intended to fit within standard sized opening in the stile of a sliding door. Preferably the latch has at least two hooks oriented in opposite directions that slide in a generally linear manner between an unlatched and latched position in response to rotation of a pair of actuators located within the latch housing. Preferably, the latch includes reinforcement blocks defining cavities with a portion of the hooks extending into the cavities when the hooks are in the latched position.
US08931807B2	Connector A connector for use as a bend stiffener in a marine application comprising male and female connectors respectively provided with a downwardly dependent frusto-conical extension and a cylindrical extension. The female connector includes a hollow cylindrical body defining a through bore and surrounded by a spring loaded sleeve movable axially with respect to the body. Spring loaded latches extend through respective apertures to coact with grooves in the body. Hydraulic rams are disposed to push the sleeve against the spring loading which brings an internally wider diameter position of the sleeve adjacent locking balls extending through but retained by stepped apertures. The latches, rams and locking balls coact to lock the male and female connectors together or to enable their release and thus the locking together or release from that locking together of connected extensions. This in turn facilitates the operation of the connector in hazardous conditions.
US08931803B2	Active bolster Provided is an active bolster for a vehicle occupant, the active bolster comprising a rear panel, an internal structure, and a front panel. The internal structure is disposed between the rear panel and the front panel, and the internal structure and rear panel together forming a hollow chamber in communication with an inflation device. The hollow chamber is expandable on activation of the inflation device. The internal structure has at least one expandable element such that upon pressurization of the hollow chamber by the inflation device, at least a portion of the at least one expandable element undergoes deformation to permit inflation of the hollow chamber, thereby displacing the rear panel rearwardly to an extended position.
US08931802B2	Variable volume airbag In at least one implementation, a variable volume airbag includes an inflatable cushion and a tether coupled to the cushion. The inflatable cushion defines an inner volume in which a gas is received to inflate the cushion longitudinally and laterally within a passenger compartment of a vehicle, and has laterally opposed side surfaces defining part of the inner volume of the cushion. The tether is coupled to each of the side surfaces of the cushion and has a first state wherein the tether limits lateral separation of the side surfaces and a second state wherein increased separation of the side surfaces is permitted as compared to the first state.
US08931801B2	Airbag for a vehicle occupant restraint system and method for producing a vehicle occupant restraint system An airbag for a vehicle occupant restraint system of a motor vehicle is provided. The airbag comprising at least one first and one second layer of an airbag material, at least one inflatable chamber formed between the first and the second layer, which is inflatable for the protection of a vehicle occupant and at least one seam, by which the first and the second layer are connected with each other along at least a portion of their respective circumference. The airbag is deployed between a vehicle occupant and a vehicle side structure. The airbag is formed such that when the airbag is mounted in the vehicle and inflated, the seam extends along a plane which is oriented obliquely or transversely to a plane formed by the longitudinal and the height direction of the vehicle.
US08931799B2	Airbag device and steering wheel There are provided an airbag device and a steering wheel that can reduce the number of components and weight and allow a retainer to be easily positioned relative to an airbag cover. An airbag cover 4 includes a side wall portion 41 standing on an inner side, a recess 42 formed in an end face at almost the center of the side wall portion 41, and retaining holes 43 and 43 formed in the side wall portion 41 on both sides of the recess 42. A retainer 3 includes a first hook 31 that is fittable in the recess 42 and contactable with a bottom face 42a of the recess 42, and second hooks 32 that are contactable with inner faces 43a of the retaining holes 43. The retainer 3 is centered in a width direction by fitting the first hook 31 in the recess 42, and the side wall portion 41 is clamped in a standing direction by the first hook 31 and the second hooks 32 by contacting the first hook 31 with the recess 42 and contacting the second hooks 32 with the retaining holes 43.
US08931796B2	Propulsion systems for manually operated mobility devices A propulsion system for a manually-operated mobility device includes a hand rim configured to receive a propulsion force from a user of the manually-operated mobility device, a wheel hub fixedly attached to a wheel for the manually-operated mobility device, and a planetary gear system including a sun gear, a ring gear, and one or more planetary gears disposed between the sun gear and the ring gear. The one or more planetary gears are supported by a planet carrier. One of the sun gear and the ring gear is fixedly coupled to the hand rim and the other of the sun gear and the ring gear is fixedly coupled to the wheel hub.
US08931793B2	Frame element of a suspension-mounted two-wheeled vehicle frame for guiding a cable The invention relates to the guiding of lines, or cables, on a two-wheeled vehicle frame. The guiding is carried out with a guide device on a frame element on which an additional frame element is movably supported in such a way that the line essentially intersects the rotational axis of the bearing.
US08931791B2	Vehicle body frame and rear fender assembly for a motorcycle, and motorcycle including same A motorcycle has a rear fender configured for strength and rigidity when the rear fender is lifted upwardly, while minimizing mass thereof. The motorcycle includes main frame sections extending rearwardly from a head pipe, left and right pivot plates attached to rear ends of the main frame sections and extending downwardly, and a swing arm, having a front end supported on the pivot plates to be swingably movable thereon, and a rear end configured to support a rear wheel. The motorcycle also includes left and right seat rails for supporting a seat thereon, left and right reinforcing rods extending between the seat rails and the pivot plates, and a rear fender mounted on the seat rails above the rear wheel. The rear fender includes projecting portions supported at front end portions thereof by front mounting flanges, the projecting portions projecting forwardly and contacting the seat rails from above.
US08931783B2	Seal assemblies A seal assembly for providing a seal between a pair of relatively rotatable components has; a first seal ring (30) mounted in sealing relationships, non-rotatably and for limited axial movement on a first of the components; a second seal (50) ring mounted in axially aligned relationship to the first seal ring, said second seal ring being mounted in sealing relationship, non-rotatably and for limited axial movement on a second of the components; first resilient means associated with the second seal ring urging it axially towards the first seal ring, second resilient means (40) acting on the first seal ring urging it away from the second seal ring to separate the first and second seal rings; and a centrifugal actuator (19) associated with the first seal ring, said centrifugal actuator comprising a radially extending chamber (38) between the first seal ring and the component associated therewith, said chamber being connected to a source of fluid, whereby when the components rotate relative to one another with fluid in the chamber, centrifugal pressurization of the fluid in the chamber will apply an axial load to the first seal ring urging it axially against the second resilient means and a sealing face of the first seal ring into sealing engagement with a sealing face of the second seal ring.
US08931782B2	Seal structure An upper oil pan of an engine includes a flange with an oil pan abutment surface that is fixedly coupled to a flange formed on a cylinder block. The oil pan abutment surface comprises a flat portion that is substantially parallel to a cylinder block abutment surface of the cylinder block, a slanted portion that is slanted with respect to the flat portion, and a vertical wall portion connecting the flat portion and the slanted portion. The vertical wall portion is formed substantially perpendicular to the flat portion. The cylinder block and the upper oil pan are fixedly coupled together via an interposed liquid gasket. Thus, the seal structure in which the liquid gasket is adequately cured is provided, and sufficient sealing properties can be obtained with a small amount of material used.
US08931774B2	Sheet processing apparatus and method, as well as controlling apparatus A sheet processing apparatus which is capable of completing a bound document containing appropriately Z-folded sheets when performing folding together with edge cutting and binding. The sheet processing apparatus controls a Z-folding process, a cutting process, and a binding process for a sheet. A first folding position from a free end of the sheet coincides with a position corresponding to half a width of the sheet excluding a cut width of the sheet a binding margin, when the Z-folding process, the cutting process, and the binding process are executed.
US08931773B2	Sheet folding device having inclined stacking surface A sheet handling apparatus includes a sheet folding unit configured to perform folding on a sheet; and a sheet stacking unit configured to stack the folded sheet on a sheet stacking surface having an inclined surface and a horizontal surface in order from upstream to downstream in a sheet conveying direction. A downstream end of the inclined surface is higher than an upstream end of the inclined surface with respect to a horizontal plane. The sheet handling apparatus also includes a discharging unit configured to discharge the folded sheet to the sheet stacking unit; a sheet conveying unit configured to convey the discharged sheet from the inclined surface to the horizontal surface; and a conveying force applying unit configured to apply a conveying force to the sheet in contact with an upper surface of the sheet from above the inclined surface.
US08931770B1	Adjustable electronic device holder An electronic device holder includes a base with at least three adjustable-position retaining posts extending upwardly from the base to permit an electronic device to be secured at a position above the base by the retaining posts. A test lead restraint assembly may be used to capture and thereby stabilize a test lead extending from the electronic device during testing of the electronic device.
US08931769B2	Device and method for deblocking optical workpieces, in particular spectacle lenses The invention relates to a deblocking device and an associated method for deblocking optical workpieces, for example, eyeglass lenses. The deblocking device has a first moving apparatus for rotating a workpiece blocked on a block piece about a workpiece rotational axis, a nozzle assembly having a nozzle for discharging a high-pressure pressure medium jet in a direction substantially perpendicular to the workpiece rotational axis onto an edge area between the workpiece and block piece, and a second moving apparatus for generating a relative motion between the workpiece and the nozzle along the workpiece rotational axis.
US08931767B2	Punching elasticity adjustment structure The present invention discloses an elasticity adjustment structure of physical training device which comprise one elastomer adjustment set; said elastomer adjustment set further comprises one first elastomer and one second elastomer. Overlapping the said second elastomer and said first elastomer with different rigidities at different depth positions to create a smooth elastic curve of said elastomer adjustment set; as a result the elasticity of said elasticity adjustment structure may be adjusted in accordance with different needs.
US08931763B2	Modular diffuser body and aeration system An aeration system for treating liquid contained in a vessel is provided. The aeration system includes a header pipe and a plurality of lateral pipes coupled to the header pipe. The lateral pipes each have one or more tubular diffuser membranes sleeved therearound. Also provided is a coupling for sealingly joining end portions of two adjacent pipes is provided. The coupling includes two saddle sections and a deformable gasket extending between the pipes. The coupling is adapted for enabling one pipe to be removed and replaced from a series of pipes without substantially moving any adjacent pipes.
US08931762B2	Air conditioner Disclosed is an air conditioner. The air conditioner includes a tray in which humidifying water is stored by a predetermined height, the tray being detachably attached to a main body, a humidifying gear rotatably arranged in the tray so as to be detachably attached to the tray, a lifter provided at a periphery of the humidifying gear, the lifter being submerged under the humidifying water so as to scoop up the humidifying water during rotation of the humidifying gear, and a humidifying filter provided in the humidifying gear and spaced apart from the humidifying water such that the humidifying water is supplied from the lifter to the humidifying filter during rotation of the humidifying gear.
US08931761B2	Fencing system A customizable decorative fencing system. A plurality of stakes, configured to be driven into the ground at selected positions, have projecting portions projecting above the ground. Posts have cavities in lower distal ends thereof. Any stake projecting portion is configured to slide into any post cavity, and be frictionally, removably, interchangeably retained therein. Fence components, including base units, gate units, and end units, include post collars, and hinge collars, respectively, through which any post can slide. Removability and interchangeability of posts with respect to fence components, and removability and interchangeability of posts with respect to stakes, provides for an infinite number of possible fence configurations.
US08931758B2	Solenoid valve Provided is a solenoid valve stable in response performance, whose quickness and damping performance are appropriate. In the solenoid valve, a respiration port for flowing fluid into and out from a space located on one side of a plunger that faces the spool is formed in an end portion of a valve sleeve. Further, a respiration groove, which causes the space on the one side of the plunger and the respiration port to communicate with each other when an end portion of the spool and an end portion of a center post are in contact with each other, is formed on the spool. This configuration makes it possible to discharge, with an appropriate level of flow-channel resistance, fluid placed in the space located on the one side of the plunger.
US08931757B2	Electric actuator An electric actuator has a motor, an electricity storing body, a switch, a setting unit, a resetting unit and a setting-off unit. The switch is provided in a supply path for electric power from the electricity storing body to the motor. The switch opens and closes the supply path. The setting unit is operated through receiving a supply of electric power from the electricity storing body in response to an instruction from an operator. The setting unit opens the switch. The resetting unit is operated through r a supply of electric power from the external power supply when the external power supply has been restored from being cut off. The resetting unit closes the switch that is provided in the supply path. The setting-off unit sets off the supply of electric power from the external power supply to the resetting unit after a specific delay time has elapsed.
US08931756B2	Electric actuator An electric actuator has a switch, a setting unit and a resetting unit. The switch is provided in a supply path of electric power from an electricity storing body to a motor. The switch opens and closes the supply path. The setting unit is operated through receiving a supply of electric power from the electricity storing body in response to an instruction from an operator. The setting unit opens the switch provided in the supply path for electric power from the electricity storing body to the motor. The resetting unit is operated through receiving a supply of electric power from an external power supply when the external power supply has been restored from being cut off. The resetting unit closes the switching unit provided in the supply path of electric power from the electricity storing body to the motor.
US08931754B2	Safety valve and electromagnetic valve A safety valve includes a cylinder having an open end and a plug for closing the open end with a hermetic seal. The interior of the cylinder communicates with a high-pressure gas passage. The cylinder is deformed as a function of gas pressure in the high-pressure gas passage to widen the open end. This allows gas in the high-pressure gas passage to escape and thus prevents the gas pressure from increasing beyond an acceptable level.
US08931748B2	Articulating monitor arm with cable and spring An extension arm including an articulating portion that approximately counterbalances the mass of the articulating portion and any objects connected thereto, for example an electronic device, throughout the positional range of the articulating portion. In some embodiments according to the disclosed inventive concepts a spring coupled to a cable is used, the cable being routed along a bearing surface and then attached within the articulating portion. In some embodiments, the bearing surface may be located on a pivotable member that rotates in correspondence with the articulating portion. In various embodiments, the spring may be located within the articulating arm, a base portion in operative engagement with the articulating portion, or entirely external to the extension arm.
US08931743B2	Apparatus for retaining wires and cords The present invention relates to an apparatus and a system for retaining wires or cords, such as those associated with electronic devices An apparatus is provided comprising a first channel configured to clamp a wire in a position within the first channel when the wire is inserted through the first channel, and a second channel adjacent to the first channel and comprising a larger clearance area than the first channel configured to allow the wire to pass through the second channel when the wire is inserted through the second channel. The first channel is formed between a first surface and an opposing second surface, wherein at least one of the two surfaces is movable relative to the other to grip a wire within the first channel.
US08931742B2	Cable management apparatus A cable management apparatus includes two mounting brackets, a cable management arm connected between the two mounting brackets and slidable vertically, and two elevating mechanisms. Each of the elevating mechanisms includes opposite sides respectively rotatably connected to one of the mounting brackets and abutting a bottom of the cable management arm. When the elevating mechanisms are rotated relative to the mounting brackets, the elevating mechanisms drive the cable management arm to slide vertically. The cable management arm defines a number of positioning holes. Each of the elevating mechanisms includes a locating pin to be operable to engage in one of the corresponding positioning holes to prevent the rotation of the elevating mechanisms.
US08931740B2	Multifunctional de-icing/anti-icing system A de-icing/anti-icing system including at least two conductive structures embedded in an article that includes an outer surface designed as an aerodynamic surface. At least one of the conductive structures is arranged adjacent the outer surface. A control unit adapted to control the energy supply to the conductive structures for generating heat to the outer surface. A first of the conductive structures includes a first conductive nano structure and a second of the conductive structures includes a second conductive nano structure. A conductive property of the first of the conductive structures differs from a conductive property of the second of the conductive structures. The first conductive nano structure serves as a heating conductor and the second conductive nano structure serves as a heating element. The first and second conductive nano structures are embedded in a common plane of a resin layer forming the outer surface.
US08931736B2	Nacelle A nacelle is configured to be coupled to an underside of a wing and forms a clearance space between the nacelle and a leading edge slat of the wing. A portion of an outlet cowling moves longitudinally aft when a reverse thrust configuration is activated and the leading edge slat is deployed toward the nacelle. The outlet cowling also includes another portion located adjacent to the leading edge slat that does not move when the reverse thrust configuration is activated and thus maintains its clearance space from the leading edge slat.
US08931730B2	Transformable aerial vehicle Systems, devices, and methods for a transformable aerial vehicle are provided. In one aspect, a transformable aerial vehicle includes: a central body and at least two transformable frames assemblies respectively disposed on the central body, each of the at least two transformable frame assemblies having a proximal portion pivotally coupled to the central body and a distal portion; an actuation assembly mounted on the central body and configured to pivot the at least two frame assemblies to a plurality of different vertical angles relative to the central body; and a plurality of propulsion units mounted on the at least two transformable frame assemblies and operable to move the transformable aerial vehicle.
US08931724B2	Device for handling spool of windable material A device for handling a spool having a barrel about which a wire or cable is wound and two flanges at each end of the barrel includes a pair of wheeled carriers wherein each carrier includes an elongated frame having two opposite end portions and wherein the opposite end portions of the frame are adapted to be moved toward and away from one another. A roller is rotatably supported at each end portion of each frame and is arranged so that the rotational axis of the two rollers of each frame are substantially parallel to one another, and a screw jack is incorporated within each frame for moving the rollers of each frame toward one another so that by positioning each carrier of the device adjacent a corresponding flange of the spool and then moving the end portions of the carrier toward one another, the flange of spool is raised to an elevated condition above the floor.
US08931723B2	Webbing take-up device A webbing take-up device is obtained that is capable of reducing the load on a reduction balance spring without using special components, and without performing special processing on a spiral direction inside end of the reduction balance spring. When the reduction balance spring rotates in a take-up direction as winding of the reduction balance spring loosens, an inside engagement portion turns in the take-up direction inside an engagement groove. Accordingly, a load absorption portion which is further to a main body portion side of the reduction balance spring than the inside engagement portion curves into a concave shape that is open towards a pull-out direction as the load absorption portion stands up. In this state, when further load in the take-up direction acts on the reduction balance spring, this load is absorbed by the load absorption portion undergoing resilient deformation so as to curve further.
US08931722B2	Grinder provided with a drive device for a crown gear This grinder is provided with a drive device for a crown gear which comprises a reduction transmission which is provided: with a drive shaft adapted so as to be connected to a motor, with at least one output pinion, said or each output pinion being adapted so as to mesh with the crown gear and to be driven by the drive shaft, and with a casing. The reduction transmission comprises at least two output pinions.Application to devices for driving horizontal grinders.
US08931721B2	Shredder with vibration performing sensor and control system A shredder includes a shredding mechanism and a vibration sensor configured to detect vibrations generated by the shredding mechanism. The shredder includes a controller configured to regulate operation of the shredder's motor in response to the detected vibrations. The controller may regulate operation of the shredder so as to keep the detected vibrations below a predetermined vibration level during operation of the shredder. The controller may modify operation of the shredder (e.g., turn the shredder off, conduct an autocorrect sequence, increase or decrease the shredder's speed, display an error message) in response to the detected vibrations having a predetermined characteristic (e.g., frequency and/or amplitude within a predetermined range, a characteristic that indicates a material/paper jam or misfeed). The controller may change the predetermined characteristics over the life of the shredder to account for gradual changes to the shredder's baseline vibration characteristics as components wear in and out.
US08931720B2	Method of sorting mined, to be mined or stockpiled material to achieve an upgraded material with improved economic value A method of sorting material that comprises determining whether a volume of material to be mined or a volume of stockpiled material is upgradable to produce a supply of material of greater economic value. If the determination is positive, the material is dry sorted to increase the grade or economic value. The determination is done by taking a plurality of samples from the initial volume of material and analyzing the material to determine if the material is able to be upgraded. The determination can be by X-Ray analysis. The upgrading can involve a size reduction step.
US08931715B2	Airless plural component spray gun A plural component spray nozzle comprising a nozzle block having two feed passageway and a main passageway. The main passageway is configured to receive one material through each feed passageway. There is a receiver block having two receiver channels. Each receiver channel comprises an entry port on one end and an exit port on another end. The receiver block is configured to selectively receive the nozzle block in actuated or blocked position. In the actuated position, the exit ports of the receiver channels are fluidly connected with their corresponding feed passageways. In the blocked position, the exit ports of receiver channels are fluidly blocked with their corresponding feed passageways.
US08931713B2	Dispensing system for odor control Apparatus for dispensing fragrance from a refill component that is installed and removed along a vertical axis through an opening at the bottom of the housing of the apparatus includes securing structure for releasably securing the refill component to the housing when the refill component is in the housing interior in operative position.
US08931711B2	Apparatus for delivering a volatile material An apparatus for delivering a volatile material in a continuous manner is disclosed. The apparatus includes a delivery engine having a reservoir for containing a volatile material; a rupturable substrate secured to the reservoir; a rupture element positioned adjacent to the rupturable substrate; and a breathable membrane enclosing the reservoir, rupturable substrate and rupture element. In some embodiments, the apparatus includes a housing having a notch for compressing the rupture element and breaching the rupturable substrate as it is inserted into the housing.
US08931708B2	Temperature and low water monitoring for boiler systems A dual functionality temperature control measurement and low water cutoff measurement system is taught within a single tapping to a boiler. This dual functionality combines a low water cutoff and temperature sensor into one control utilizing a sensing element suitable for use in a single existing tapping for a boiler. Independent of low water functionality, the temperature sensor is also capable of monitoring temperature as a replacement probe in an existing temperature sensor-only well. A conductive member provides a compression fit inside the probe well for thermistors, while simultaneously providing conduction with the well interior for a low water cutoff signal in a two-conductor well.
US08931705B2	IC card, mobile electronic device and data processing method in IC card According to one embodiment, an IC card includes a communication module, a first command processing module, a determining module, a second command processing module, a response processing module. The first command processing module performs a process corresponding to a first command received from the external device. The determining module determines whether a second command is contained in a data portion of the first command. The second command processing module performs a process corresponding to the second command if the determining module determines that the second command is contained in the data portion of the first command. The response processing module sets a processing result of the second command executed by the second command processing module in the data portion of the response indicating a processing result of the first command executed by the first command processing module and transmit the same to the external device.
US08931700B2	Four dimensional (4D) color barcode for high capacity data encoding and decoding A method and program for encoding and decoding color barcodes to increase their data capacity. The encoding steps include determining a shape and a color for each data cell to encode digital data, wherein a combination of the shape and the color for the data cell is chosen from a plurality of combinations of shapes and colors in accordance with a value of the digital data to be encoded, and coloring a subset of the plurality of pixels in each data cell in accordance with the shape and the color for the data cell determined above. The decoding steps include segmenting the data cells in a color barcode, recognizing a shape formed by a subset of pixels in each data cell and the color of the shape, and obtaining digital data from a combination of the recognized shape and color in each data cell.
US08931697B2	System for detecting reorigination of barcodes A system for detecting reproduction of barcodes (12) includes providing a barcode which contains data; providing a copy-evident background (14); capturing an image of the barcode and the copy-evident background; locating and decoding the barcode; detecting copy introduced changes in the copy-evident background; and authenticating the barcode if the copy-evident background has not been copied.
US08931696B2	Counterfeit detection system and method An anti-counterfeit system comprises an item with at least one marker affixed thereto. The marker comprises a chemical signature having at least one chemical, and indicates the source of the item. The marker is detectable in the item to reveal whether the item is authentic or counterfeit. In at least one embodiment, the marker comprises a chemical signature that is unique to a particular entity and is affixed to items authentic to that entity. Further, a method of determining the authenticity of an item comprises isolating an item for testing, determining the presence of a marker, analyzing the marker for a chemical signature, comparing the results of the analysis to a chemical signature unique to a particular entity, and determining from the comparison whether the item is authentic or counterfeit. In some embodiments, the method further comprises quantifying the results of the analysis, such as the chemical(s) discovered therein.
US08931695B2	Secure voting via multimedia processing resources A voting server receives votes from a multimedia processing resource (MPR) and executes instructions for determining whether a user location is an approved voting location and determining whether an MPR communication path is an approved path. If the user location is an approved voting location and the MPR communication path is an approved path, ballot data is accessed, a ballot based on the ballot data is presented to a user, and user input is accepted to select an element from the ballot.
US08931694B1	Systems and methods for automated benefit verification and application Systems and methods for providing automated benefit verification and application are described. The apparatus may include a receiving module to receive a transaction, a transaction processing module to process the transaction and parse a unique identifier, a verification module to verify eligibility for a benefit and a data store to store a plurality of unique identifiers. The method may comprise receiving a credit card transaction, determining if a unique identifier contained within the transaction matches one of a stored listing and prompting a user to accept a benefit if the unique identifier matches one of the stored listing. The method may, alternatively, comprise processing a payment device, determining if the user is entitled to a benefit based on information contained within the payment device, prompting the user to accept or decline the benefit and providing the benefit if accepted.
US08931692B2	Multi-communication featured, touch-operated or keyboard cash register with contact and non-contact credit card reader The invention relates to a device design used in commercial premises, in which a physically independent plurality of units (Electronic Funds Transfer, Point-of-Sale (“EFT POS”) device, Pinpad, financial electronic cash register, Barcode reader and GPS based positioning device) are integrated in one single compact frame.
US08931687B2	Techniques for optimization of barcodes Techniques for optimization of barcode processing are presented. Barcode configuration data is distributed from a server service to a mobile client device. The mobile client device includes an application to inspect the capabilities of mobile client device and render the barcode configuration data into a barcode that is optimally scanned from the mobile client device when presented on a display of the mobile client device.
US08931685B2	Electric wire connecting method An electric wire connecting method for connecting together a wire having a conductor and a stranded wire having a plurality of strands which are twisted, the electric wire connecting method is provided. The electric wire connecting method includes a forming step and a welding step. In the forming step, the conductor is formed into a plate element by pressing the conductor. In the welding step, the strands are welded to the plate element in a state where the strands are superposed on the plate element.
US08931681B2	Surgical instrument and cartridge for use therewith A cartridge assembly is disclosed. The cartridge assembly comprises a cartridge housing and a cartridge. The cartridge housing has a plurality of biasing members thereon. The cartridge is configured for reception at least partially within the cartridge housing. The cartridge includes a plurality of fasteners at least partially therein. The cartridge has a plurality of pockets. Each fastener is ejectable from a corresponding pocket. The cartridge has a plurality of chambers, and each chamber is adjacent a pocket and configured to store at least one fastener at least partially therein. At least one fastener is movable from the chamber to the pocket. The cartridge includes a plurality of pushers, where each pusher is configured to engage at least one corresponding fastener. At least one pusher includes at least one cam surface thereon. Each biasing member urges at least one corresponding fastener toward the corresponding pocket.
US08931676B2	Nailer having mechanism for pre-positioning nail A fastening tool can include a housing comprising a nosepiece and a handle. The handle can define a first longitudinal axis. A magazine can be connected to the housing for storing a fastener. The magazine can define a second longitudinal axis that is substantially parallel to the first longitudinal axis and a fastener channel for receiving a fastener. The magazine can be movable relative to the housing between an alignment position wherein the distal tip of the fastener engages a workpiece and an activation position wherein the magazine moves toward the housing upon movement of the handle toward the workpiece. A driving mechanism can be disposed within the housing for driving the fastener into a workpiece. A trigger assembly can be coupled to the housing for activating the driving mechanism upon actuation of a primary trigger and movement of the magazine into the activation position.
US08931673B2	Ergonomic reversible attachment device for a load-carrying system A reversible attachment device comprises a reversible hanger having a piece of hook material on a first side and a piece of loop material on a second side and may optionally be assembled with either side facing an accessory holder. Embodiments of a reversible attachment stabilize and distribute loads from objects in accessory holders. By selecting which side of the reversible hanger faces the accessory adapter, an accessory holder may be suspended from a load-carrying structure having either loop material or hook material. In some embodiments, the hook material and loop material are formed into a sleeve which fits slidably around the reversible hanger. Alternative assembly configurations for an embodiment provide for a range of height adjustment between an accessory holder and a load-carrying structure. Some embodiments include an accessory holder with a reversible attachment device. Other embodiments include a duty belt or other load-carrying structure.
US08931672B1	Skate bag A carrying bag for facilitating a person carrying a pair of skates or other items. The carrying bag may also be used as a cushion when empty of the skates or other items. The carrying bag may also be used to insulate items within the bag against cold environments, such as skating rinks.Two skate compartments each include two flexible webs fixed together at portions of the peripheral edges thereof to form an internal pocket. Each web is selectively fixed together at other portions of the peripheral edges at a mechanical fastener, such as a zipper. Each flexible web substantially and mutually overlaps to form generally a skate-shaped profile that includes at least a narrow top portion and a front toe-edge portion. Preferably the selectively openable other portions of the peripheral edges are at a rear side of the bag. The narrow top portion of each compartment is mutually and opposingly fixed together at a seam area. The front toe-edge portion of each compartment terminates at a rigid preferably metallic ring, each of which may be mutually and selectively connectable with a mechanical clap, or the like.A draw string is slidably captured by each narrow top portion of each compartment. The draw string forms a loop on the rear side of the bag, while two free ends of the drawstring terminate at a front side of the bag.In use, with each skate placed into the pocket of one of the compartments through the open mechanical fastener, the fastener may be closed to capture the skate within the pocket of the compartment. The bag may then be carried over the person's shoulder with the two rings mutually fixed around the person's waist with the mechanical claps, or suspended from an object, such as a door knob, with the loop synched threrearound to secure the bag to the object.In one embodiment, each flexible web includes an outer layer and an inner layer. In such an embodiment, the outer layer may be a resilient cushioning layer, and the inner layer may be made from an insulating layer of material. As such, items contained within the pocket are at least partially insulated from cold environments such as skating rinks.In such an embodiment, a second, hidden pocket may be included between the outer layer and the inner layer, opening through the inner layer. Similarly, a third pocket may be included between the outer layer and the inner layer, opening through the outer layer.
US08931671B2	Bicycle carrier and method for serially loading bicycles thereon Bicycle carriers and corresponding methods for loading bicycles and/or other wheeled vehicles onto such carriers are provided. In one embodiment, a bicycle carrier includes a support member (e.g., vertical or generally vertical support member), a hitch member, an elongate upper member, and an elongate lower member. The elongate upper member has an elongate body and a free distal end configured for receipt, serially one after another, of a plurality of wheels of a corresponding plurality of bicycles. For each bicycle, adjacent spokes of a bicycle wheel are positioned about the free distal end of the elongate member and the bicycle is moved backward along the elongate body towards the support member. The elongate body is configured to support the weight of the bicycles via contact with the rims of the bicycle wheels. The carrier is configured such that the bicycles hang generally vertically from the elongate body.
US08931668B2	Trigger dispenser device A trigger dispenser device (1) comprises a container (C) provided with a dip tube, a dispenser head (20) with a primary liquid aspiration duct (8) connectable to the auxiliary liquid aspiration duct (202) of the container (C) and eccentric with respect to the container axis (X).
US08931667B2	Methods and apparatuses for dispensing fluids A fluid dispensing system can be used with a container comprising at least one camming surface. In various embodiments, the fluid dispensing system can have a housing which can accept at least a portion of the container in a fixed orientation and a track which can be engaged with the housing. In at least one embodiment, the housing can be slidably movable along the track at least between a first position and a second position. In various embodiments, the fluid dispensing system can have a tube which can be engaged with at least a portion of the container to withdraw fluid therefrom when the housing is in the second position and can also have a fluid system in fluid communication with the tube.
US08931660B2	Can shell and double-seamed can end A drawn aluminum can shell has a peripheral crown which is double-seamed with an end portion of an aluminum can body to provide a can end having a generally flat center panel connected by an inclined curved or straight panel wall to an inclined inner wall of an annular U-shaped countersink. The countersink has an outer wall which connects with an inclined lower wall portion of a chuck wall at a junction below the center panel, and the chuck wall has a curved or inclined upper wall portion which connects with an inner wall of the crown. The chuck wall also has an intermediate wall portion forming a break, and the inner bottom width of the countersink is less than the radial width of the panel wall. The inclined upper wall portion of the chuck wall extends at an angle greater than the angle of the inclined lower wall portion of the chuck wall.
US08931658B2	Portable drip containment device apparatus and method A portable drip containment device comprises a tray formed of fuel and chemical resistant fabric. Side walls of the tray are supported by removable bolster segments formed of resilient open cell foam members enclosed within sleeves. The bolster segments are wrapped within a flap of material extending from under the side wall of the tray and around the bolster segments to secure them to the side walls. The outer edge or end of the flap is secured to the side wall. The bolstered side walls may be repeatedly driven across by industrial vehicles without harming the bolster or side wall. The modular bolster segments may be removed and easily stacked, and the tray folded and rolled into a compact modular form, for transport, storage, and reuse of the portable containment tray.
US08931653B2	Electrical junction box A bracket secured to a vehicle body is firmly attached to an electrical junction box without causing any loosening. The electrical junction box includes a bracket securing section provided integrally on a casing outer surface and a bracket made of a resin molding material fixed on the bracket securing section by a bolt and a nut. Bolt holes are provided in the bracket securing section and the bracket, respectively. Positioning pins project near the bolt hole in one of the bracket securing section or the bracket. The positioning holes are provided in the other of the bracket securing and the section or bracket to receive the positioning pins. After the positioning pins are fitted in the positioning holes to position and hold the bracket on the bracket securing section, a bolt is inserted into the corresponding bolt holes and is fastened by a nut.
US08931644B2	Method and apparatus for splitting fluid flow in a membraneless particle separation system A method and system for splitting fluid flow in an outlet of a particle separation device is provided. The system may include static or passive mechanisms or subsystems. These mechanisms could also be modular and interchangeable to provide for preset fluid split divisions of 20:80, 30:70, 40:60, 50:50, . . . etc. In other forms of the presently described embodiments, the system is adjustable and variable. In still another form of the presently described embodiments, the system allows for differential pressure control at the outlets to facilitate the flow of varying size particles or particle bands in the respective channels or paths.
US08931643B2	Powder sifting device Disclosed is a powder sifting device comprising a housing and a frame, the housing has a first opening communicating a second opening on which a screen is provided to form a receiving space delimited by the first and the second opening; the frame, that is received in the receiving space, is provided with a holding part at one side adjacent to the first opening and provided with a sweeping element proximately covering on the screen at other side, wherein the frame is driven by the holding part to rotate within the receiving space, and the sweeping element is moved along with the holding part to sweep over the screen according to the present invention, so that the effort-saving and easy-operation powder sifting device is obtained.
US08931636B2	Blade exchange device, system and method A blade exchange device may be used to remove or install a blade on a medical or surgical instrument such as a dermatome. The blade exchange device generally includes a base portion and a blade engaging portion that engages the blade being removed or installed. The blade exchange device may be used in a system that also includes a magnetic tool for coupling and moving the blades that are removed or installed. The blade exchange device, system and method may be used, for example, with commercially available dermatome instruments such as the type known as the Goulian-Weck knife.
US08931632B2	Jam reduction A method and apparatus are disclosed for transporting at least one item of media. The apparatus includes at least one guide member providing a first guide surface that guides at least one item of media as the item is transported, at least one elongate slit in the guide surface and at least one belt member each extending along a respective slit and comprising a first belt portion that extends outwardly from the slit beyond the guide surface and a further belt portion that undercuts a region of the guide surface.
US08931631B2	Versatile regulating unit for a stream of containers A regulating unit inserted in an installation for preparing batches of containers of the bottle kind. The unit is interposed between an upstream conveyor and a downstream conveyor and at each of its ends, between two adjacent walls (16), includes a mechanism for centering each conveyor module (9). These mechanism includes arms (25) of the same length forming a pair of compasses between two adjacent walls (16), which pair of compasses has a central articulation secured to the conveying module (9) by a sliding connection located in the mid-plane of the corresponding lane. The walls (16) are connected to one another by a pantograph system (30) and a connecting member, having a link rod (35) extending between the pair of compasses and the pantograph to collaborate with the corresponding support of the conveying module (9) in order to keep it in the mid plane of the corresponding lane.
US08931630B2	Quick access allergen cleaning open frame conveyors An open frame design of conveyors that will allow inspection access as well as sanitation access to all surfaces of conveyors that carry products that could contain Food Allergens, materials that could cause reactions as well as provide proper sanitation access. For proper and safe operation these allergens and offending materials must be removed and therefore proper access to all surfaces must be provided so as to be able clean and remove allergens and offending materials from all surfaces as well as to provide access to visually confirm proper removal has been carried.
US08931629B2	Vernier adjustor for feed dispensers A vernier adjustor for a feed dispenser is provided. The vernier adjustor includes first and second slotted members moveable in slidable relation and a pin, the first and second slotted members each including a plurality of slots separated by respective first and second spacings. The pin is adapted for placement within an aligned slot pairing to fix movement of the first slotted member relative to the second slotted member. The first and second slotted members are positionable in increments less than the first and second spacings. In particular, the first and second slotted members are positionable in increments substantially equal to the difference between the first spacing and the second spacing. Movement of the first slotted member relative to the second slotted member provides an incremental raising or lowering of a feed gate.
US08931628B2	Automated face conveyor chain tension load sensor in chain tension plate A device is provided for detecting and adjusting the tension of the scraper chain. The device identifies broken chain as it leaves the return sprocket and enters the top race of the conveyor. When detected, the chain can be stopped automatically by the armored face conveyor control system, to avoid the potential for further damage, and warn the operators that repair of the chain is required.The device also provides a conveyor with sliding frames at both ends to allow the conveyor ends to be independently adjusted to each end of the coal block, whilst maintaining good chain tension and control.
US08931625B2	Glass sheet belt conveyor A powered draw belt of a belt conveyor for conveying glass sheets has a main supporting surface, and is fitted with a suction retaining device for securing a glass sheet to the draw belt; the retaining device having at least one hollow body at least partly covering the main supporting surface; the hollow body defining a supporting surface for the glass sheet, and having at least one elastically deformable portion spaced apart from the main supporting surface to define, with the main supporting surface, a variable-volume chamber connectable to a suction source.
US08931623B2	Device for the accumulation of products The invention relates to an accumulation device (4) comprising a first linear conveyor belt (5) and a second linear conveyor belt (6), a third conveyor belt (7) forming a semi-circle and configured for transferring items from the first to the second conveyor belt and translation means (10, 11) of the third belt relative to the first and second belt. The accumulation device comprises two ramp systems (23, 24) attached respectively to the two ends (7a, 7b) of the third belt. The first ramp system (23) deforms the first belt to constitute a first slope ensuring that items rise from the first belt to the third belt. The second ramp system (24) deforms the second belt to constitute a second slope ensuring that items descend from the third belt to the second belt. Displacement of the third conveyor belt at the same time enables displacement of the first and second slopes formed on the first and second belt. The invention also relates to an installation equipped with such an accumulation device.
US08931621B2	Container handling machine having movable transport stars A container handling machine includes transport stars and a container transfer station between adjacent stars. The container transfer station has a drive element arranged between two adjacent stars for moving them relative to each other in a way that results in centers of the adjacent stars being moved relative to each other according to an ascertainable and operationally-induced deviation during operation of the container handling machine.
US08931620B2	Medium detecting method, medium detecting device, medium discharge device and printing apparatus According to one embodiment, a medium detecting method includes conveying a medium in a first direction along a first conveying path, and allowing the medium conveyed from the first conveying path to enter a second conveying path arranged with the first conveying path so that the medium is conveyed in a second direction opposite to the first direction. The method also includes allowing light emitting elements of first and second detecting sensors to irradiate light such that the light intersects the first and second conveying paths, and detecting the presence or absence of the medium based on whether or not light receiving elements of the first and second detecting sensors receive the light.
US08931618B2	Small and bulk pack napkin separator An apparatus and method are provided, for alternatively producing either small or bulk packs of napkins from a stack of folded napkins produced by one folding machine, through use of a pack dispatching arrangement having an inlet, a small pack transfer station and a bulk pack transfer station, and configured for operation in a small pack mode for dispatching a stream of spaced apart small packs of folded sheets separated from the stack of folded sheets, and received at an inlet of the pack dispatching arrangement, to the small pack transfer station, and alternatively operable in a bulk pack mode for dispatching a stream of spaced apart bulk packs of folded sheets separated from the stack of folded sheets, and received at an inlet of the pack dispatching arrangement, to the bulk pack transfer station.
US08931616B2	Sorting device A sorting device having at least one control unit for sorting mixtures of individual elements in sorting units according to at least one characterizing feature of the individual elements and having at least one conveyor belt. The sorting device comprises at least one buffer unit having at least two displaceable storage elements for intermediate storage of individual elements.
US08931615B2	Modular chain newel with standard bearing A roller bearing and newel guide assembly (30) for a newel (24) in an escalator (10) has a newel guide (32), a roller chain (34), and a spring (40) connected between the roller chain (34) and the newel guide (32) to provide tension to the roller chain (34). The roller chain (34) comprises a series of interlinked chain units (36). Each chain unit (36) includes a frame (78), at least one roller bearing (72), and a pin (76) for connecting the roller bearing (72) to the frame (78). Each chain unit (36) has a female connector (62) and a male connector (64), which allow each chain unit (36) to connect to an adjacent chain unit (36) to form the roller chain (34).
US08931613B2	Device for handling notes of value, comprising a stack merging unit The invention relates to a device (10) for handling notes of value, comprising two intermediate storages (32, 500) for intermediate storage of notes of value and a stack combining unit (802). The stack combining unit (802) combines a first stack formed by notes of value intermediately stored in the first intermediate storage (32) and a second stack formed by notes of value intermediately stored in the second intermediate storage (500) to a single combined stack.
US08931611B2	Connected assembly of two shafts and a clutch housing An assembly of transmission components includes a first shaft including first and second surfaces, and axial cutting-spline teeth on the second surface, a second shaft connected by a press fit to first shaft, and a clutch hub connected by a press fit to the second shaft and engaged with the cutting-spline teeth.
US08931609B2	Roller-type one-way clutch The present invention provides a roller type one-way clutch comprising an outer race in which pockets provided at their inner surfaces with cam surfaces are formed, an inner race spaced apart from the outer race in a radial inner diameter side and disposed coaxially with the outer race for a relative rotational movement and having an annular outer peripheral track surface, a roller disposed within the pocket to be engaged with the cam surfaces and adapted to transmit torque between the outer race and the inner race, and an accordion spring disposed within the pocket and adapted to bias the rollers to be engaged with the cam surfaces, and wherein one end of each accordion spring is secured to an axial end face of the outer race.
US08931608B2	Damper hub friction package A friction assembly for a torque converter, including: a side plate for a damper in the torque converter; a plate; an output hub for connection to an input shaft for a transmission; and a diaphragm spring. The side plate and the plate are fixedly connected to a turbine shell for the torque converter. The diaphragm spring is directly engaged with the output hub so that the diaphragm spring rotates with the output hub and is axially displaceable with respect to the output hub. The diaphragm spring is directly engaged with the side plate and the plate so that the diaphragm spring is axially restrained by the side plate. The plate and is rotatable with respect to the side plate and the plate.
US08931606B2	Force diversion apparatus and methods Force diversion apparatus, methods and devices including the same result in rotational motion being imparted to an impacting object.
US08931603B2	Damper A damper for damping a movement along a middle-longitudinal-axis, in particular for damping a seat in a vehicle, includes an outer housing extending along the middle-longitudinal-axis, a guiding and sealing unit closing a first housing end, a piston rod sealed by the guiding and sealing unit guided, an inner housing, which surrounds a working chamber, a damping fluid, a second housing end opposite the first housing end and a piston guided in the inner housing along the middle-longitudinal-axis and secured to the piston rod. The piston divides the working chamber into a first part-working chamber and a second part-working chamber. The piston includes at least one throughflow channel for connecting the chambers, an equalizing chamber arranged between the inner housing and the outer housing and a throttling channel integrated into the guiding and sealing unit. The throttling channel has a cross-sectional area comprising a length and an internal width.
US08931602B2	Suspension systems A shock absorber assembly comprises a piston and cylinder arrangement, a damping-fluid chamber and a damping valve arrangement which is located in the damping fluid chamber and serves to divide the chamber into sub-chambers. The assembly is such that in use the valve arrangement regulates the flow of fluid between the sub-chambers.
US08931601B2	Dampening device An assembly for dampening vibration movement between a cylinder and a concentric duct, where the cylinder is positioned radially inside the duct, includes a damper attached to the duct. The damper includes a housing attached to the duct, a contact member positioned at least partially inside the housing and having a contact surface adjacent an outer surface of the cylinder, and a cap threadedly engaged with the housing for applying a load on the contact member in a direction toward the cylinder.
US08931600B2	Method of manufacturing caliper body of floating-type disk brake and the caliper body A caliper body of a floating-type disk brake includes a cylinder having a cylinder bore into which piston pressing brake pads are disposed against a disk rotor, a bridge extending from the cylinder part including a through-hole, and a claw part formed on a leading end side of the bridge and disposed opposite to the cylinder part. The caliper body of the floating-type disk brake is made in a mold with sprues provided in at least two places spaced apart from each other in a disk rotor circumferential direction on a region corresponding to the claw part. Molten metal is poured from the sprues in at least two places of the mold, and starts to solidify from a side of the cylinder part.
US08931595B2	Grease packing jig for bearing A grease packing jig includes: a support table on which a bearing is placed; a disc-shaped inner lid placed on an inner ring of the bearing; an upper lid, and pressers arranged to engage with an upper surface of the upper lid. The upper lid is disc-shaped, has a larger diameter than the inner lid, has a grease pumping port and has a lower surface formed with an inner lid housing recess so as to leave a grease pumping space between the lower surface and an upper surface of the inner lid as well as between the lower surface and an outer circumferential surface of the inner lid. Grease can be packed into a gap space in the bearing from a grease packing port provided between an inner circumferential surface of the inner lid housing recess and the outer circumferential surface of the inner lid.
US08931592B2	Aircraft interior panel with acoustic materials A panel assembly that includes a first panel having an inner surface and an outer surface, and a second panel having an inner surface and an outer surface. The second panel includes a plurality of rib members formed therein that extend inwardly. The rib members include an inner surface and an outer surface. A plurality of panel portions are defined between the plurality of rib members. The panel portions include an inner surface and an outer surface. The inner surface of the rib members are secured to the inner surface of the first panel, and the inner surface of the panel portions is spaced apart from the inner surface of the first panel to define at least first and second cavities.
US08931587B2	Method and apparatus for producing sound pulses within bore holes An impulse sound source for geophysical studies of the earth for oil, gas and other natural resource exploration and more specifically a streamlined design of a hydraulically controlled sound source that may be inserted into oil wells and bore holes for analysis of geological formations deep beneath the earth's surface.
US08931586B2	Working vehicle A working vehicle includes a joy-stick lever which operates a front loader, and a main change lever etc., wherein a right side dashboard is located in the right side of the driver's seat, the forward end step part is located beside the steering wheel, and is provided with the joy-stick lever, a grip part of the main change lever is disposed at a lower position than the steering wheel, a grip part of the position lever is disposed at an outside position of the grip part of the main change lever on a plan view, and a grip part of the joy-stick lever is disposed at a front side position of the grip part of the main change lever on a plan view, and is disposed in a range of a height of the steering wheel on a side view.
US08931585B2	Bulldozer The cab is situated on the body frame. The engine cover is situated in front of the cab. The engine includes the crankshaft extending in the longitudinal direction of the bulldozer. The air cleaner is situated above the engine. The air cleaner is secured to the engine cover. The duct connects the air cleaner and the engine. The duct includes the first connector and the second connector. The first connector is connected to the engine. The second connector is connected to the air cleaner. The front mounting part supports the engine on the body frame. The rear mounting part supports the engine on the body frame. The rear mounting part is situated behind and above the front mounting part.
US08931584B2	Thermal expansion resistant heat exchanger seal A seal member may include a base portion, a plurality of deflector portions, and an expansion portion. The base portion may include a plurality of tabs adapted to be mounted to a heat exchanger. The plurality of deflector portions may each extending from a corresponding one of the plurality of tabs and manipulate a flow of fluid proximate the heat exchanger. The expansion portion may be disposed between adjacent deflector portions and may be expandable in response to exposure to heat between a first position at which the adjacent deflector portions are a first distance apart from each other and a second position at which the adjacent deflector portions are a second distance apart from each other.
US08931583B2	Wheelchair The present application relates generally to conveyances and, more particularly, to wheelchairs. In one embodiment, a wheelchair includes a seat assembly coupled to a chassis. The chassis includes a frame having a rear wheel support member, one or more front wheel support members extending in a forward direction from the rear wheel support member, and a seat support member. The rear wheel support member comprises a central portion and left and right portions extending downward from the central portion. The wheelchair also includes one or more drive wheels for propulsion of the wheelchair, a set of front wheels for supporting the wheelchair, and a shrouding system for at least partially covering the frame and other components of the wheelchair.
US08931581B2	Drilling tool A drilling tool that has a flexible shaft so as to be able to make short radius curves while still being able to transmit torque and axial loads. The drilling tool includes a drill shaft for transmitting axial load, comprising a series of coaxial ring members connected together such that adjacent ring members are flexible in an axial plane relative to each other; each ring member being connected to an adjacent ring member by connecting member arranged to transmit torque therebetween; and axial supports extend between adjacent ring members so as to transmit axial loads therebetween.
US08931574B2	Lubrication structure for working device A lubrication structure for a working machine is provided. A driven gear that engages with a driving gear connected to a driving source and rotates, is accommodated in a chamber in a case. An eccentric cam is provided on a surface of the driven gear, and connected to a coupling pin in a blade through a crank member. A fitting ring part is provided in one end of the crank member, and the eccentric cam is inserted into the fitting ring part so as to rotate relative to the fitting ring part. An annular groove is formed on the inner surface of the fitting ring part which faces the outer surface of the eccentric cam. The annular groove communicates with a first chamber via a first lubricating passageway and also communicates with a second chamber via a second lubricating passageway.
US08931573B1	Toolbar implement A toolbar implement connects to a tractor and a plurality of row units are connected to the toolbar implement. The toolbar implement contains: (a) a main longitudinal frame; (b) a transverse left wing toolbar hingedly connected to the frame; (c) a transverse center bar connected to the frame; (d) a transverse right wing toolbar hingedly connected to the frame; (e) a plurality of lift arms connected to the center bar; (f) an axle connected to the distal ends of the lift arms; (g) a plurality of track assemblies mounted on the axle; (h) a left longitudinal frame member connected to the center bar and extending rearwardly; (i) a right longitudinal frame member connected to the center bar and extending rearwardly; and (j) a transverse center toolbar connected to the main frame, the left longitudinal frame member, and the right longitudinal frame member.
US08931572B2	Work machine and automatic control method for blade of work machine A work machine includes a vehicle body, a blade supported by the vehicle body, a pair of first hydraulic cylinders, a pair of second hydraulic cylinders, a pair of lift stroke sensors and a control unit. The first hydraulic cylinders are configured to lower and raise the blade. The second hydraulic cylinders are configured to tilt the blade forward and backward and left and right. The lift stroke sensors are configured to detect stroke amounts from the pair of first hydraulic cylinders, respectively. The control unit is configured to start actuating the pair of second hydraulic cylinders when the stroke amounts of the pair of first hydraulic cylinders match. The control unit is configured to stop actuating the pair of second hydraulic cylinders based on a magnitude relation between a prescribed threshold and a difference in the stroke amounts of the pair of first hydraulic cylinders.
US08931570B2	Reactive in-flow control device for subterranean wellbores An apparatus for controlling fluid in-flow into a wellbore tubular includes a translating flow control element having one or more fluid conveying conduits; and a reactive element that actuates the flow control element. The reactive element may be responsive to a change in composition of the in-flowing fluid. The reactive element may change volume or shape when exposed to or not exposed to a selected fluid. The selected fluid may be oil, water, or some other fluid (e.g., liquid, gas, mixture, etc.). The reactive element may slide the flow control element such that a conduit formed on the flow control element changes length, which then changes a pressure differential across the flow control element.
US08931569B2	Method and apparatus for a wellbore assembly A method and apparatus for a wellbore assembly. The wellbore assembly may comprise a conveyance member including at least one of a continuous spooled rod, a wireline, and a slickline; an accumulator system connected to the conveyance member; and a setting tool connected to the accumulator system. The accumulator system may be configured to supply a fluid pressure to actuate the setting tool. A method of operating a wellbore tool may comprise lowering a wellbore assembly into a wellbore using a conveyance member including at least one of a continuous spooled rod, a wireline, and a slickline, wherein the wellbore assembly includes an accumulator system and a setting tool. The method may comprise actuating the accumulator system to provide a fluid pressure to the setting tool. The method may comprise actuating the setting tool using the fluid pressure.
US08931566B2	Method and apparatus for autonomous downhole fluid selection with pathway dependent resistance system An apparatus is described for controlling flow of fluid in a subterranean formation based on a selected characteristic of fluid flow, such as viscosity, velocity or density, as that characteristic varies over time. A pathway-dependent resistance assembly, such as a vortex chamber having two inlets and an outlet, provides varying resistance to fluid flow based on the ratio of flow from the inlets, the direction of flow as directed by the inlets, and the characteristic of the fluid. The incoming flow ratio is preferably determined by flowing fluid through a plurality of passageways having differing flow rate responses to fluid having differing characteristics. Fluid of a selected characteristic will encounter lesser resistance to flow across the system, while fluid of an un-favored characteristic will encounter greater resistance to flow. Thus, flow of well fluids can be autonomously restricted as the fluid characteristics change over time.
US08931563B2	Auxiliary subsurface compensator Force-dampening arrangement (100) for dampening forces between two interconnectable parts in a tube string, of which interconnectable parts a lower part (101) is connected to the upper end of a string element (105, 3a) extending into a subsea well (5) and an upper part (103) is suspended from a floating surface installation (1) through at least one suspension element (3b) extending up to said surface installation. The force-dampening arrangement (100) is connected to the tube string above a string-portion (3a) extending into said subsea well, and below at least a portion of said suspension element (3b). The force dampening arrangement (100) exhibits an upper and lower section (109, 111) that are vertically movable in relation to each other, thereby yielding for impact forces between said interconnectable upper and lower parts (103, 101) resulting from vertical heave movement of said portion of suspension elements (3b) moving vertically in respect of the string element (3a).
US08931557B2	Wellbore servicing assemblies and methods of using the same An apparatus for servicing a wellbore comprising a housing, high-pressure ports, high-volume ports, and a mandrel slidably positioned within the housing. The housing defines an axial flowbore and the mandrel defines a mandrel axial flowbore. The mandrel is alternatingly movable from a first position to a second position and to a third position. When the mandrel is in the second position, a route of fluid communication via the high-pressure ports is provided and a route of fluid communication via the high-volume ports is obstructed. When the mandrel is in the third position, a route of fluid communication via the high-volume ports is provided. The apparatus is transitionable from the second position to the third position without communicating an obturating member to the apparatus, without removing an obturating member from the apparatus, or combinations thereof.
US08931553B2	Electrically conductive proppant and methods for detecting, locating and characterizing the electrically conductive proppant Electrically conductive proppants and methods for detecting, locating, and characterizing same are provided. The electrically conductive proppant can include a substantially uniform coating of an electrically conductive material having a thickness of at least 500 nm. The method can include injecting a hydraulic fluid into a wellbore extending into a subterranean formation at a rate and pressure sufficient to open a fracture therein, injecting into the fracture a fluid containing the electrically conductive proppant, electrically energizing the earth at or near the fracture, and measuring three dimensional (x, y, and z) components of electric and magnetic field responses at a surface of the earth or in an adjacent wellbore.
US08931549B2	Method and apparatus for a subterranean and marine-submersible electrical transmission system for oil and gas wells The present invention is directed towards methods of oil and gas well logging, monitoring, and the field of electrically powering submersible devices like electrical motors in oil and gas wells.
US08931546B2	Compact two sided cold plate with threaded inserts A structural cold plate assembly includes a support structure including first and second opposite sides supporting corresponding cold plates and an insert. The insert defines a portion of a fluid passage through the support structure and secures the cold plate to the support structure.
US08931545B2	Internal combustion engine and heat engine with multiple heat exchangers A heat exchanger arrangement is provided for an internal-combustion engine having a heat engine, which converts hot steam of a working medium by way of an expansion device to kinetic energy. The working medium, that can be delivered by a pump, can be heated in a first heat exchanger by a coolant and in a second heat exchanger by an exhaust gas of the internal-combustion engine. In the delivery direction, the working medium first flows through the first heat exchanger and, subsequently, through the second heat exchanger. The exhaust gas can flow through the first heat exchanger.
US08931544B2	Refractory mold A bonded refractory mold is disclosed. The mold includes a mold wall. The mold wall includes a bonded refractory material and defining a sprue, a gate and a mold cavity, the gate having a gate inlet opening into the sprue and a gate outlet opening into the mold cavity. The mold also includes a gas vent extending through the mold wall. The mold also includes a gas permeable cover covering the gas vent.
US08931541B2	Motorized drive unit assembly for a shade system A motor drive unit assembly for a motorized drapery system having a drapery fabric can include a motor having a drive shaft, an output member rotatable about a drive axis, such that rotation of the output member about the drive axis causes the drapery fabric to move, and a clutch member operatively coupled between the drive shaft of the motor and the output member. The clutch member is configured to automatically couple the output member to the drive shaft such that rotation of the motor drive shaft causes the output member to rotate about the drive axis when the motor drives the drive shaft. The clutch member is further configured to automatically decouple the output member from the motor drive shaft so that the output member rotates about the drive axis relative to the motor drive shaft when the output member is manually driven.
US08931540B2	Window treatment having an adjustable bottom bar A motorized window treatment can include a headrail that is configured to be mounted to a structure. A covering material can be attached to the headrail and configured to be raised and lowered by a pair of lift cords that are operatively attached to a lift mechanism. The treatment can also include a bottom bar that is attached to an opposite end of the covering material as the headrail. The bottom bar can define a channel, which can house a sliding member that is configured to move along the bottom bar and is coupled to the ends of the lift cords. By sliding along the channel, the sliding member allows the lengths of the lift cords to change with respect to one another such that when a force is applied to the bottom bar the bottom bar will move from an unleveled position to a leveled position.
US08931529B2	Support stands for movable support of power tools A support stand for movable support of a power tool features the use of rollers to support a tool mount along an elongated track. The track features a cover arrangement disposed over the surfaces on which the rollers move so as to avoid sawdust or other debris from building up on the track and interfering with smooth rolling motion of the tool mount. The stand is assembled in a working position by attaching two stand sections end to end to form the track, and is also configured for arrangement into a collapsed condition in which the stand sections stack one atop the other for space efficient storage and convenient transport.
US08931526B2	Filling element The invention relates to a filling element for a filling system or for a filling machine for filling containers with a liquid filling material. The filling element has at least one liquid channel designed in a filling element housing, which channel forms at least one discharge opening for the liquid filling material and can be connected to a source for providing the liquid filling material or a component of said filling material, at least one liquid valve in the at least one liquid channel for the controlled discharge of the filling material or the component at the discharge opening, and a gas barrier, which, when the liquid valve is closed, prevents the filling material from continuing to flow or drip, and for that purpose forms at least one flow channel having a reduced cross-section.
US08931525B2	Injecting device and method of filling a holder with separated liquid layers An injecting device for filling a holder with separated liquid layers is provided herein. The device includes at least two containers for holding different liquids, an injector for filling a holder with separated liquid layers and moving means for setting the distance between the holder and the injector. A method for filling a holder with separated liquid layers is also provided. The method includes the steps of placing a holder with bottom, disposing inside the holder, and at a predetermined distance from the bottom of the holder, a feed conduit with an outflow opening for dispensing liquid, and allowing different liquids to flow sequentially out of the feed conduit, wherein the distance between the outflow opening and the bottom is maintained.
US08931514B2	Liquid flow rate control valve A liquid flow rate control valve is provided in which since a total area of overlapping sections of a communication hole group (38c, 38d) of a distributor (38) and an outlet opening (37a, 37b) of a sleeve (37) changes when the distributor (38) is rotated by a first electric motor (46), if a rotor (42) is rotated by means of a second electric motor (47), an input port (31e) communicates with an output port (31f) through an inlet opening (42c, 42d) of the rotor (42), the communication hole group (38c, 38d) of the distributor (38), and the outlet opening (37a, 37b) of the sleeve (37) when the inlet opening (42c, 42d) of the rotor (42) passes through the overlapping sections, thereby making it possible to carry out PWM control of a flow rate of liquid. Since a thrust load in an axis (L) direction does not act on the distributor (38) and the rotor (42), supporting the distributor (38) and the rotor (42) becomes easy, thereby enabling the cost and weight to be cut.
US08931512B2	Gas delivery system and method of use thereof Methods and apparatus for delivery of gas are provided herein. In some embodiments, a gas delivery system may include a premix tank having an inlet and an outlet; a plurality of gas supplies coupled to the inlet of the premix tank; a plurality of valves, each valve respectively disposed in line with a corresponding one of the plurality of gas supplies; and a conduit coupling the outlet of the premix tank to one or more gas delivery zones.
US08931507B2	Multiple manifold valve A plurality of electromagnetic valves are mounted on a manifold base, a single top cover that covers the plurality of electromagnetic valves as a whole is mounted, the top cover is screwed into the manifold base in a state in which a positioning pin on a lower end of a peripheral wall is fitted into a small hole in the manifold base, a reinforcing rib is formed on an inner face of a top plate of the top cover, the rib is arranged so that the rib is brought into contact with the upper faces of the electromagnetic valves all the time or is brought into contact with the electromagnetic valves when the top cover is elastically deformed by a pressing force from the outside acting on the top cover.
US08931504B2	Hydraulic axial piston regulating valve and its application The present invention applies to the hydraulic axial piston regulating valve with a linear position sensor, consisting of the valve body (1) and the central part (2), around which the fluid flows when the valve is opened, the hydraulic cylinder (3) with the piston (4) and the piston rod (5), to which the valve regulating piston (12) is firmly fastened. The linear position sensor (8) is placed inside the hydraulic cylinder, and in the electric version of the valve, the sensor with the magnetostrictive waveguide (20) is used. The present invention applies also to the utilization of the linear response of such valves for the regulation purpose using various driving aids; as e.g. electro-hydraulic drive, pneumatic drive or autonomous drive using the energy of the fluid flowing in the pipeline.
US08931502B2	Gas-dispensing device and facility comprising such a device The invention relates to a gas-dispensing device for connecting a plurality of pressurized gas sources (E1, E2, E3, E4) to a user, the device including a housing provided with a plurality of gas inlets to be connected to respective gas sources (E1, E2, E3, E4) and an outlet to be connected to a user member, a dispensing member that selectively movable, relative to the body, into separate dispensing positions for selectively putting each inlet in communication with the outlet in turn, while the other inlets are isolated from the outlet, characterized in that the device comprises an emergency discharge system that is movable into an operative position in which all the gas inlets are simultaneously forcedly connected to a gas discharge outlet.
US08931498B2	Portable enclosure with elastically sealed opening The portable enclosure with an elastically sealed opening includes a base and a frame mounted thereon. The frame is formed from a pair of tensioned frame rods having central portions crossing one another. A fabric covering is secured to the frame to define a hollow enclosure. At least one substantially vertically extending opening is formed through the fabric covering. A lower end of the opening is positioned adjacent the base. Fabric sleeves are secured on opposite sides of the opening. An elastic loop extends through the sleeves around the opening. A tensioned rod is mounted on an upper end of the frame, one end thereof being positioned adjacent an upper end of the opening and supporting an upper end of the elastic loop. This support of the elastic loop creates elastic tension therein, which elastically seals the opening.
US08931492B2	Electronic cigarette configured to simulate the natural burn of a traditional cigarette The present disclosure generally relates to electronic cigarette components. As will be disclosed, an electronic cigarette may have a translucent conduit and light chamber which, together, allow light from the light source to be diffused therethrough in such a way that the light emitted during inhalation simulates the natural burn of a traditional tobacco cigarette during inhalation. The electronic cigarette may also have a translucent ash simulator to further simulate the natural burn of a traditional tobacco cigarette during inhalation.
US08931489B2	Hearing protection devices and kits including adjustable sound-attenuation assemblies Hearing protection devices and kits may include an earplug body and an adjustable sound attenuation assembly composed of an attenuator case and an attenuator insert that is removably insertable into the attenuator case. The attenuator case has a hollow barrel portion that accommodates the attenuator insert and a hollow extension portion connected to the hollow barrel portion. The hollow extension portion includes a soundpath channel therethrough defining a soundpath axis. The attenuator insert is rotatable within the hollow barrel portion of the attenuator case about a rotation axis that is noncollinear with the soundpath axis. The attenuator insert has a thickness along the soundpath axis that varies with respect to a rotation angle of the attenuator insert within the attenuator case. Thereby, sound waves that enter the soundpath channel through the distal opening are attenuated proportionally to the thickness of the attenuator insert along the soundpath axis.
US08931485B2	Combination prophylactic package and dispenser A package housing a condom and dispenser for holding the peripheral wall of the condom folded into a tubular accordion stack and operable upon application of a predetermined force to the closed end of the condom to meter the folds in progression.
US08931483B2	Determination of apnea/hypopnea during CPAP treatment CPAP treatment apparatus is disclosed having a controllable positive airway pressure device. A sensor generates a signal representative of patient respiratory flow that is provided to a controller. The controller is operable to determine the occurrence of an apnea from a reduction in respiratory airflow below a threshold determined from long term ventilation. When an apnea or hypopnea has occurred the calculation of the threshold is suspended until the end of that event.
US08931481B2	Flow generator chassis assembly with suspension seal A seal is provided for a chassis assembly of a flow generator configured to provide a flow of breathable gas. The chassis assembly includes an upper chassis and a lower chassis. The seal includes a blower receptacle sealing portion configured to seal a blower receptacle of the chassis assembly configured to receive a blower configured to generate the flow of breathable gas; a flow sensor sealing portion configured to seal a flow sensor provided in the chassis assembly and configured to measure the flow of breathable gas; a blower mount configured to receive a portion of the blower and mount the blower to the seal; and a blower mount suspension configured to connect the blower mount to the blower receptacle sealing portion, wherein in an assembled condition the seal and the chassis assembly define a flow path from an inlet of the chassis assembly to the blower receptacle of the chassis assembly to an outlet of the chassis assembly. A flow generator for generating a flow of breathable gas includes a chassis assembly comprising a lower chassis and an upper chassis, the lower chassis and the upper chassis defining a blower receptacle; a blower provided in the blower receptacle; and the seal.
US08931480B2	Inhaler with drive gear outside of the housing An inhaler comprising a housing to receive a strip having a plurality of blisters is disclosed. Each blister has a puncturable lid and contains a dose of medicament for inhalation by a user. A mouthpiece is pivotally mounted to the housing through which a dose of medicament is inhaled by a user. The inhaler also has an actuating mechanism including a lever operable to sequentially move each blister into alignment with a blister piercing member depending from the mouthpiece. The actuating lever is also operable to cause the mouthpiece to pivot so that the blister piercing member punctures the lid of an aligned blister so that, when a user inhales through the mouthpiece, an airflow through the blister is generated to entrain the dose contained therein and carry it, via the mouthpiece, into the user's airway.
US08931474B2	Fireplace liner A fireplace liner comprising a first panel configured to be located in front of a fireplace burner assembly that has a lateral dimension that extends across a viewing window of a fireplace box. The first panel is configured to extend laterally along the lateral dimension, and, a rear end of the first panel, nearest to the burner assembly, includes a first trough having a vertical wall with a plurality of first slots therein. The liner comprises a second panel configured to be located behind the burner assembly in the box. The second panel is configured to extend laterally along the lateral dimension, and a front end of the second panel, nearest to the burner assembly, includes a second trough having another vertical wall with a plurality of second slots therein. The first and second slots permit secondary air flow there-through.
US08931472B2	Stacked cooking unit A cooking unit includes a base pan including a base, an inner wall, and an outer wall extending substantially perpendicularly from the base. A can is positionable on the base pan such that the inner wall extends around the can. A cooking drum is positionable on the base pan such that the can extends around the cooking drum. The cooking drum includes at least one opening extending therethrough.
US08931470B1	Archery bow vibration dampening and balancing device A holder for an archery bow vibration dampening and balancing means is secured between two split limbs of an archery bow flexible arm and includes an attachment holding means for receiving a vibration dampening and/or balancing device.
US08931469B2	Bilateral adjustable quiver with releasable bow attachment A quiver for holding arrows or bolts. The quiver may be releasably attached to a mounting rail on a bow, belt, or the like. The quiver includes a frame connecting two end structures, each end structure having arrow head pockets, arrow shaft clips, and a connector for attachment to the frame. At a midsection of the frame is a mounting block with an attachment mechanism for releasably securing the quiver to the mounting rail. The preferable mounting rail is of the Picatinny type. A first set of arrows (three in the preferred embodiment) may be positioned with arrow heads in the arrow head pockets of one end structure and arrow shafts in the arrow shaft clips of the second end structure. A second set of arrows is positioned in a similar manner but in the opposite direction between the end structures on the frame.
US08931468B2	Single/continuous firing air soft gun and firing switch thereof In a single/continuous firing air soft gun and a firing switch thereof, the air soft gun includes a gun body and a barrel fixed in the gun body, and the firing switch includes a piston seat and a firing switch device, wherein the piston seat is disposed in the gun body and capable of reciprocally moving in horizontal with respect to the barrel; and the firing switch device is installed on the piston seat, and includes a stop piece and a toggle piece connected with the stop piece, and the stop piece is disposed corresponding to the trigger assembly.
US08931466B2	Bowstring drawing and release assist apparatus and method thereof An apparatus for one-handed operation of archery equipment may facilitate drawing and firing of an arrow from a bow. The apparatus may comprise a release aid having jaws for selective engagement and disengagement of a bowstring and a trigger mechanism operable to open and close the jaws. Head gear may be configured for attachment to the head of an archer and may be coupled to the release aid with a connection mechanism such that the archer may resist a tension in the bowstring with the headgear. An alternative apparatus comprises an automatic drawbar and engagement head such that an archer may manipulate drawbar controls to draw and release an arrow from a bow.
US08931463B2	Bi-fuel engine with increased power A conventional gasoline engine is retrofitted and calibrated to operate as a bi-fuel engine using Hydrogen as the second fuel. When operated with Hydrogen, which typically leads to a reduction of engine output power, the engine is preferably operated in a charged mode and in a lean mode with the engine throttle kept in a wide open position during charged and lean mode operation resulting in a more efficient engine with a reduction of engine output power loss.
US08931462B2	EGR system for an internal combustion engine that feeds exhaust gas independent of intake air An internal combustion engine of a motor vehicle has a multi-channel fresh gas system with a plurality of fresh gas lines leading to different cylinder groups. At least one shut-off element is connected in each of the fresh gas lines and coupled to a control and/or regulating device. A multi-channel exhaust system for the discharge of exhaust gas out of the cylinders has a plurality of exhaust lines leading away from the different cylinder groups. A multi-channel exhaust-gas recirculation system has exhaust-gas recirculation lines, for recirculating exhaust gas from the exhaust system to the fresh gas system. The method and device utilize crossed-channel exhaust-gas recirculation, in which the exhaust-gas recirculation lines branching off from the exhaust lines of a certain channel lead back in each case to fresh gas lines of a different channel. The shut-off elements of the individual fresh gas lines are actuated such that a fresh gas line which is shut off from the fresh gas supply by a shut-off element is supplied with exhaust gas from an exhaust line of a different channel, whose associated fresh gas line is not shut off from the fresh gas supply, via an exhaust-gas recirculation line.
US08931460B2	Fuel vapor recovery system A fuel vapor recovery system has a fuel tank, an adsorbent canister, a separator capable of separating fuel vapor from air, and a negative pressure supplier applying negative pressure to the adsorbent canister in order to remove the fuel vapor from the adsorbent canister. The separator has a housing and a separation membrane. The separation membrane divides an inner space of the housing into a receiving chamber and a permeation chamber and is configured to allow the fuel vapor to pass therethrough. The separator is connected with the fuel tank such that the fuel tank is fluidly connected with the receiving chamber. The negative pressure supplier is fluidly connected with the adsorbent canister via the permeation chamber. When the negative pressure supplier applies negative pressure to the adsorbent canister, purge gas flows from the adsorbent canister into the fuel tank via the permeation chamber.
US08931459B2	System and method for controlling evaporative emissions Disclosed herein is a system and method for controlling evaporative emissions in an internal combustion engine. A control valve assembly having a valve housing having an inlet portion, a first outlet portion and a second outlet portion, and a vapor chamber is provided. The vapor chamber is situated within the housing and is in communication with the inlet portion, first outlet portion and second outlet portion. The assembly is configured to receive fuel vapors from a fuel vapor source, through the inlet portion into the valve chamber. The assembly is further configured to selectively actuate a piston member situated at least partially inside the valve chamber for communicating the fuel vapors in the vapor chamber to either: (i) at least one of the atmosphere and an engine air inlet system via the second outlet portion when the engine is operating or otherwise engaged to be operated, or (ii) to a crankcase of the engine via the first outlet portion when the engine is not operating.
US08931458B2	Carburetor and methods therefor A carburetor having an inlet opening that includes a pair of concavities operative to direct air toward the metering rod of the carburetor. A carburetor having an inlet opening that includes an arcuate manifold adjacent to the inlet opening and in fluid communication with a fuel reservoir. A carburetor having a slide assembly that includes a positioning mechanism operative to adjust the position of the metering rod relative to the throttle slide. A throttle slide that includes a flow guide that bisects an arcuate relief on an underside thereof. A method for configuring the throat of a carburetor that includes an upper portion of a first diameter and a lower portion of a second diameter that is offset from the first diameter. The method comprises deriving an optimum size for the first and second diameters and the offset based on the pumping efficiency and operating parameters of the engine.
US08931448B2	Constructed plastic rotor with integrated cartridge and spring suspension A cover (4) for covering an axial side of a rotor core (6) that is arranged in a camshaft adjuster (50) and has a passage bore (28) for holding a locking pin (30) with which the rotor core (6) can be secured against rotation relative to a stator (54) of the camshaft adjuster (50). The specified cover includes a base body (8) for axially covering at least one area of the rotor core (6) with the passage bore (28) and a support element (38) that is arranged on the base body (8) for the axial counter support of the locking pin (30).
US08931447B2	Device for controlling the valve control times of an internal combustion engine A device (1) for controlling and/or influencing the valve control times of an internal combustion engine, in particular to a camshaft adjustment device, which includes a drive element (2) which is fastened to an attachment part (3) with a screw connection (4), wherein the drive element (2) and/or the attachment part (3) are/is composed of a fiber-reinforced material. In order to obtain a more lightweight design and to be able to reduce screwing forces, the invention provides that at least one of the contact faces (5, 6) between the drive element (2) and the attachment part (3) is at least partially subjected to material-removing processing.
US08931444B2	Head packaging for cylinder deactivation Systems and methods for an overhead cam shaft coupled to an inline engine with inner cylinders and outer cylinders are disclosed. In one example approach, an engine bank comprises inner cylinders each having only first and second lift profiles, both being non-zero lift profiles, and outer cylinders each having first, second, and third lift profiles, two being non-zero lift profiles and one being zero lift.
US08931442B2	V-type block of a crank circular slider mechanism and a cylinder liner, a group of the cylinder liner, mechanical equipment thereof A V-type block of a crank circular slider mechanism, comprising a piston with a circular slider receiving hole and a circular slider received in the receiving hole, the block having a main journal hole and comprising a group of adjacent cylinders arranged in a V form intersecting in the position of the main journal hole, each of the cylinders in the group penetrating the main journal hole, wherein said cylinders each penetrate the main journal hole with an axial length beyond the main journal hole, which the length is long enough for providing a reciprocating range required for the reciprocating motion of the part of the piston located beneath the receiving hole of the circular slider.
US08931439B2	Module for controlling coolant valve and grille shutter A thermal management module includes a motor with an output shaft, and a gear train connecting the output shaft to a driven gear connected to a valve for controlling coolant flow in a coolant system. At least one grille shutter is movable between an open position allowing air through the grille shutter and a dosed position preventing air through the grille shutter. A linkage connects the at least one grille shutter to the output shaft or the gear train, so that the motor is operable to control a valve operating position of the valve and a shutter operating position of the at least one shutter.
US08931436B2	Electrode design for deer repellant device An improved electrode design is provided for a baited, shock-producing, deer repellent device deployed in an area to be protected. This device has straight, parallel, positive and negative, un-insulated metal electrodes extending vertically from the top. The electrodes are spaced and sized so that they surround and protect the bait. This electrode design increases the chance that a deer will make effective contact with the electrodes while also allowing easy access to the bait for servicing. This electrode design also decreases the chances of the device collecting ice or snow, and it decreases the chance of discharge of the device by moisture or by contact between the electrodes.
US08931430B2	Spray coating applicator system A spray applicator system is provided with a reservoir manifold assembly having a separate reservoir for each different coating to be applied. Reservoirs are filled from a coating supply system and isolated electrically from the supply system when coating is dispensed from a reservoir to the applicator. Multiple sets of reservoirs can be used, so that an empty reservoir in one set can be filled while coating is dispensed from a reservoir in the other set. The set of reservoirs in which a reservoir is being filled is isolated electrically from the applicator, and of the set of reservoirs in which a reservoir is dispensing coating to the applicator is isolated electrically from the supply system.
US08931426B2	Seed metering apparatus for a farm implement The present invention is directed to a hopper for a seed metering system that has a series of individualized and independently controlled metering units. The hopper has a plurality of discharge openings that can be selectively opened and closed to expose an opening to a respective one of the plurality of metering units. Each seed metering unit is selectively driven by a common drive member, such as a drive shaft. When a seed metering unit is engaged with the drive member, the unit will meter granular material. On the other hand, when the seed metering unit is not engaged with the drive member, the metering unit will not meter granular material. Hence, the present invention provides a seed metering apparatus that provides effective sectional control.
US08931422B2	System, method and apparatus for securing valuables A safe includes a body that has an opening for receiving and holding an object. A door is rotatably interfaced to the body by, for example, a series of pins, whereas the door obstructs the opening in a first position of rotation, and the door provides access to the body of the safe through the opening when the door is in a second position of rotation. A locking mechanism engages between the door and the body when the door is rotated to the first position of rotation thereby holding the door in the first position of rotation until the locking mechanism is released and, upon releasing by the locking mechanism, the door is free to rotate towards the second position of rotation.
US08931421B2	Foldable table A foldable table includes a first tabletop panel, a second tabletop panel, and a reinforcing frame which includes first through fourth reinforcing members mounted along longitudinal sides of the first and second tabletop panels respectively, a first transverse member transversely extended between outer end portions of the first and second reinforcing members at the first tabletop panel, and a second transverse member transversely extended between outer end portions of the third and fourth reinforcing members at the second tabletop panel. Two ends of the first transverse member are affixed to the first and second reinforcing members in a non-rotatably movable manner. Two ends of the second transverse member are affixed to the third and fourth reinforcing members in a non-rotatably movable manner. Therefore, the first and second transverse members enhance the rigidity of the reinforcement frame to support two transverse sides of the first and second tabletop panels respectively.
US08931418B2	Bodyshell structure of railcar A bodyshell of a railcar includes side outside plates, end bodyshells, and guiding plates. The side outside plate are located at both end portions of a carbody in a vehicle width direction. The end bodyshell includes an end outside plate and a corner post. The end outside plates are located at both end portions of the carbody in the longitudinal direction. The corner posts are located at four corners of the carbody. The corner post is joined to the adjacent end outside plate and the adjacent side outside plate. The guiding plate is provided at the side outside plate so as to cover the corner post from a vehicle exterior. The guiding plate includes an inclined portion and a joining portion. The inclined portion is provided in front of the corner post and inclined to the rear side toward the side outside plate.
US08931416B2	Inert and pressure-actuated submunitions dispensing projectile An inert axisymmetric projectile is provided for launching from a shipboard gun and dispersing submunitions at a target. The projectile includes a base plug, a sabot housing, a submunitions package, and a retainer ring. The sabot housing includes a plurality of sabot petals angularly arranged and attached to the plug. The housing includes a payload portion and a nose portion, with a passage corridor between these portions. The submunitions package is contained within the payload portion and constrained radially by the housing. The retainer ring constrains the petals for joining together. Upon launch aerodynamic pressure fractures the ring and causes the petals to unfurl, thereby releasing the submunitions package for dispersal.
US08931415B2	Initiation systems for explosive devices, scalable output explosive devices including initiation systems, and related methods Initiator systems for warheads include a first initiation device configured to detonate at least a portion of an explosive material contained in an explosive device and a second initiation device configured to deflagrate at least a portion of an explosive material of a warhead. Scalable output explosive devices include an explosive material at least partially disposed within a housing and an initiator system including a first initiation device configured to detonate at least a portion of the explosive material and a second initiation device configured to deflagrate at least another portion of the explosive material. Methods of igniting warheads include deflagrating a portion of an explosive material disposed within the warhead and detonating at least another portion of the explosive material disposed within the warhead.
US08931412B2	Method for printing of a recording In a method or system for printing of a recording medium, potential images of images to be printed are generated on a potential image carrier. The potential images are developed into an image film comprising image regions and non-image regions on the potential image carrier via application of a liquid developer comprising a polymerizable carrier fluid with dye particles suspended therein. The image film is transferred onto the recording medium. The image film is fixed on the recording medium via a cross-linking reaction of the carrier fluid such that the dye particles of the image regions are embedded in a fixed polymer matrix and the carrier fluid hardens into a transparent film that permanently bonds with the recording medium. The cross-linking reaction of the carrier fluid is started, accelerated, or extended by at least one component.
US08931408B2	Sock identification kit A sock identification kit includes a housing configured to secure a plurality of ink stamps, a stamp holding device, at least one ink well, and a cleaning member. The stamp holding device includes a handle, actuation assembly, and a pair of clamping members that may be selectively actuated to move the clamping members between open and closed configurations. Accordingly, a selected stamp may be securely removed from the housing, used to imprint ink upon a fabric, and then replaced without ever touching a potentially ink stained stamp with one's hand.
US08931406B2	Deliver drum and perfecting printing press having the delivery drum A delivery drum includes at least one supporting shell for supporting a printed sheet and for producing a vacuum region between the supporting shell and the printed sheet. The supporting shell extends over the entire width of the printed sheet. A circumferential length, which is at least one quarter of the sheet length of the printed sheet, is disposed between the sheet start of the printed sheet and the start of the vacuum region.
US08931404B2	Feeding and reversing mechanism for a strapping machine A feeding and reversing mechanism for a strapping machine includes a forward-reverse wheel assembly and a tension wheel assembly which are mounted on a base and arranged in such a way to provide larger contact areas between a strapping band and the two wheel assemblies. The feeding and reversing mechanism further includes first and second spring units. The first spring unit helps to keep a suitable gap between an active wheel and a passive wheel of the tension wheel assembly for the strapping band to pass through. The second spring unit helps to move the passive wheel toward the active wheel of the tension wheel assembly, so that the strapping band can be clamped between the passive wheel and the active wheel tightly to facilitate reversing and tightening of the strapping band.
US08931402B2	Vertically depressible joint and pressure-cooker provided with one such joint Provided is a sealing gasket for a cooking utensil, the utensil includes a vessel and a lid; at least one first locking member and at least one second locking member, the sealing gasket being designed to be interposed between the lid and the vessel and being characterized in that it is designed so that, while the lid is docking with the vessel, said sealing gasket fits over the top rim and comes into contact with said lid and with said vessel while the first locking member is situated at a first height (h61) greater than or equal to the height (h8) at which the second locking member is situated, and is then depressed under the weight of the lid alone to bring the first locking member to a second height (h62) that is less than the height (h8) at which the second locking member is situated.
US08931401B2	Appliance for simultaneous cooking and stirring A cooking appliance includes a base upon which a pot is supported, with a stirrer configured as a lid, for closing an open top of the pot. A tool coupled to a motorized drive of the stirrer extends downwardly into the pot. A heating element is coupled to the base and resiliently biased outwardly from the base to engage the base of the pot. A latch mechanism is provided for releasably connecting the pot to the base. The motorized drive includes a planetary gear set mounted coaxially with a pot axis, and a tool coupling is connected to a planet gear of the planetary gear set to drive the stirring tool in an orbital motion.
US08931396B2	Method for the removal of sediment from sparkling wines Apparatus for the removal of sediment from sparkling wines, designed to remove the capsule covering the neck of a bottle (18) containing sparkling wine, comprising: a frame (12), a tilting mechanism (14) comprising: a holder (16) for supporting a bottle (18) in a predetermined position, said holder (16) being movable on the frame (12) between a low position, in which the neck is inclined downwards, and a high position in which the neck is inclined upwards, and a capsule removing mechanism (32) provided with at least one capsule removing knife, said capsule removing mechanism (32) being movable on the holder (16) and synchronized with said holder (16) so that the said capsule removing knife or knives remove(s) the capsule, when the holder (16) is in a predetermined angular position relative to the horizontal. The capsule removing knife is movable relative to the capsule removing mechanism (32).
US08931394B2	Systems and methods for providing firearms with lighter cocking action Apparatuses and methods for facilitating reloading and resisting recoil of a firearm include an elastic member in communication with a portion of the firearm. A contact member coupled to the portion of the firearm, the elastic member, or combinations thereof, is movable between a first position in which movement of the portion of the firearm is biased by the elastic member and a second position in which movement of the portion of the firearm is generally unaffected by the elastic member. An actuator can be used to move the contact member between the first and second positions.
US08931392B2	Device for protection against grenades with shaped charges The present invention relates to a protection device (10) for protection against so called RSV-grenades comprising a grid configuration (20) with at least one profile element arranged to affect the electric detonation release arrangement (52) of such a grenade (50) by means of short-circuiting, characterized in that said at least one profile element (30; 30a; 30b; 30c; 30d; 30e; 30f) has a cross section being tapering in the principal incoming direction of the grenade. The invention also relates to a motor vehicle.
US08931389B2	High voltage explosive assembly for downhole detonations A downhole explosive detonation comprises a high voltage electro-explosive initiator comprising an input high voltage power supply with a low impedance shunting fuse, a flexible electrical link and a capacitor discharge unit. Explosive is initiated in a direction approximately parallel, or in another version perpendicular to the capacitor discharge unit. A unique configuration and construction of the assembly allows installation through a small service port in the gun housing structure for more efficient gun arming. A real time downhole voltage monitoring is described that transmits voltage readings to the surface during a firing sequence.
US08931388B2	Cutting tool having a magnetically controlled pre-load force A cutting tool includes an outer tubular member having a first magnet and an inner tubular member having a second magnet wherein the inner tubular member is slidably disposed within the outer tubular member. A force, such as an attractive or opposing force, is created between the first magnet and the second magnet. The attractive or opposing force creates a preload force between the inner tubular member and the outer tubular member or a hand piece that is engaged with the inner tubular member. A method of creating a force between an inner and outer tubular member is also disclosed.
US08931386B2	Miter saw with bevel lock The miter saw includes a base and a turntable. The turntable is rotatable in relation to the base. The turntable has a work piece support surface. The miter saw further includes a clamp structure secured in fixed relation to the turntable. The miter saw further includes a bevel arm pivotably connected to the turntable and a cutting arm pivotably connected to the bevel arm. The miter saw also includes a cutting assembly supported by the cutting arm. Further still the miter saw includes a clamp member movable in relation to the bevel arm between a first clamp member position and a second clamp member position. The clamp member includes a follower surface and a brake surface. The miter saw also includes an actuator including a cam surface. The actuator is (i) supported by the bevel arm, and (ii) movable in relation to the bevel arm in a linear path of movement between a first actuator position and a second actuator position.
US08931385B2	Portable hose cutoff saw with biasing pins The present invention is directed to a portable hose cutoff saw having an improved stable base structure comprising a front plate and a back plate, a top plate extending transversely between the front and back plates interconnecting said front and back plates, and at least one connecting member extending transversely between a bottom portion of the front and back plates. The present invention also provides for a portable hose cutoff saw having a plurality of slideably adjustable hose biasing pins that may be adjusted to optimally bias the hose at or about a portion of a hose to be cut by the saw, thereby resulting in a consistent and straight cut of the hose.
US08931380B2	Skin engaging member for a razor cartridge A skin engaging member for a razor cartridge includes an erodible first layer and an erodible second layer below the first layer. Each layer includes a lubricious water soluble polymer and can include a water insoluble polymer. The second layer includes a fragrance that can be in the form of microcapsules or a suitable additive of the polymeric material(s). As the first layer erodes during normal use of the razor cartridge the second layer is eventually exposed dissolving or fracturing the microcapsules or otherwise releasing the fragrance. The fragrance is malodorous indicating to e.g. a vision impaired user that the optimal life of the razor cartridge is at or nearing its end. The first layer can also be provided with a non-malodorous fragrance. A third erodible layer can be provided between the first and second layer and can also include a fragrance. End-of-optimal-life indication can be rapid or gradual.
US08931378B2	Method and apparatus for dry lubrication of a thin slitting blade A block of a solid lubricant material, such as PTFE, is biased continuously or intermittently against the cutting edge of a rotary slitting blade for corrugated paperboard. The solid lubricant block prevents the build up of starch adhesive and biasing movement compensates for wear of the block and wear of the cutting blade edge.
US08931374B2	Socket wrench A socket wrench includes a handle including a pivotal head including a cylindrical, eccentric recess on a bottom, a cylindrical cavity in a blind end of the eccentric recess, a perimetric opening proximate to the eccentric recess, and a spring depressible detent; a socket drive including a lower projection, upper external ratchet teeth, an annular groove, and an intermediate flange; a hollow drive gear including a circular opening on a bottom, first, second and third posts, first, second and third positioning wells; first and second pawls; and a biasing member disposed and biased between the first pawl and the second pawl.
US08931372B2	Coaxial double drive assembly applicable with shielding elements of a secondary skin facade of a building A coaxial double drive assembly configured for actuating shielding elements of a secondary skin facade of a building is disclosed. The assembly includes an outer drive output and an inner drive output, which are arranged substantially coaxially with each other to an axis of rotation. The assembly also includes a driving arrangement, which is adapted to accept one or more transmission gear assemblies, which connect the outer and inner drive output to one or more rotating motor drives, which axes of rotation are substantially perpendicular to the axis of rotation of the outer and inner drive outputs. The outer drive output and the inner drive output extend at the same side of the coaxial double drive assembly and are adapted to accept a two-part pivot assembly, which when pivoted by the outer drive output and the inner drive output, is adapted for actuating the shielding elements of the secondary skin facade coupled thereto.
US08931365B2	Bicycle control device for controlling an electric device A bicycle control device that includes a bracket configured to be mounted to a handlebar, a first lever pivotally mounted to the bracket and defining a first pivot axis, a second lever that includes a first user contact part pivotally mounted to the first lever that pivots about a second axis, and a first electrical switch mounted to one of the first lever and the second lever. The first electrical switch is operated in response to pivotal movement of the second lever about the second axis. The first pivot axis is positioned between the second pivot axis and the first user contact part.
US08931361B2	Electric vehicle transmission An electric vehicle transmission, the transmission comprising an input shaft arranged to be driven by an electric motor, an output shaft arranged to transfer drive from the input shaft to driving wheels of the vehicle to which the transmission is fitted, a first clutch for engaging/disengaging a first gear ratio of the transmission, a second clutch for engaging/disengaging a second gear ratio of the transmission, and a fluid pump driven in response to rotation of the output shaft, wherein the first clutch is biased to engage said first gear ratio in the absence of pressure from the fluid pump.
US08931359B2	Parallelogram based actuating device An actuating device includes a first actuating device mounted to a second actuating device. Each of the first and second actuating devices includes a base link, a first link, a second link, a translating link, a shaft, and a drive. The base link includes a first joint, a second joint, and a base plate extending between them. The first link is mounted for rotation to the first joint, and the second link is mounted for rotation to the second joint. The translating link includes a third joint, a fourth joint, and a translating plate extending between them. The drive includes an arc surface and is mounted to the translating link such that, when operating the actuating device, a position of the arc surface is fixed relative to the translating plate. The shaft is mounted to the arc surface to cause translation of the translating link as the shaft rotates.
US08931354B2	Coriolis mass flow meter with high zero stability The invention relates to a Coriolis mass flow meter with improved zero point stability. The Coriolis mass flow meter has a pair of U-shaped measuring tubes. According to one embodiment of the invention, the Coriolis mass flow meter comprises a special housing for vibration compensation or vibration suppression in the region of the process connectors. Additionally or alternatively, a specific mass distribution of the vibration exciter and/or vibration sensor is provided, in order to neutralize unwanted vibrations by actively causing vibration.
US08931352B2	Cleaning quality control system using electromagnetic flow meter, and cleaning quality control method A cleaning quality control device to automatically determine cleaning quality as to whether or not cleaning has been completed from a detection signal of the electromagnetic flow meter,the cleaning quality control device includes, an S/N ratio measuring unit to measure an S/N ratio of the detection signal, and a cleaning completion determining unit which is provided with an S/N ratio•electric conductivity determining table in which outputs of the S/N ratio measuring unit and respective electric conductivities of detergent drains are previously made correspondent using the detergent drains with predetermined electric conductivities, and which outputs cleaning completion when an obtained electric conductivity thereof becomes not more than a predetermined electric conductivity, andobtains the electric conductivity of the detergent drain from a value of the S/N ratio of the electromagnetic flow meter, and thereby automatically determines the cleaning quality as to whether or not cleaning has been completed.
US08931347B2	Fluid pressure sensor and measurement probe A fluid pressure measurement sensor (11) comprises a microelectromechanical system (MEMS) chip (23). The MEMS chip (23) comprises two lateral walls (56), a sensitive membrane (49) connected to said lateral walls (56) and sealed cavity (9). The exterior surfaces of the lateral walls (56) and the sensitive membrane (49) are exposed to the fluid pressure. The lateral walls (56) are designed to subject the sensitive membrane (49) to a compression stress transmitted by the opposite lateral walls (56) where said lateral walls (56) are connected to the sensitive membrane (49) such that the sensitive membrane (49) works in compression only. The MEMS chip (23) also comprises a stress detection circuit (31) to measure the compression state of the sensitive membrane (49) which is proportional to the fluid pressure.
US08931342B2	Piezoelectric film and method of manufacturing the same, ink jet head, method of forming image by the ink jet head, angular velocity sensor, method of measuring angular velocity by the angular velocity sensor, piezoelectric generating element, and method of generating electric power using the piezoelectric generating element The purpose of the present invention is to provide an angular velocity sensor capable of measuring an exact angular velocity, an ink jet head capable of producing an exact amount of ink, and a piezoelectric generating element capable of generating electric power due to positive piezoelectric effect. In the present invention, a piezoelectric film comprising a first electrode, a piezoelectric layer, and a second electrode is used. The first electrode comprises an electrode layer having a (001) orientation. The piezoelectric layer comprises a (NaxBiy)TiO0.5x+1.5y+2—BaTi03 layer (0.30≦x≦0.46 and 0.51≦y≦0.62) having a (001) orientation.
US08931341B2	Test mass and method for interferometric gravity characteristic measurement A test mass used for light beam interferometric gravity characteristic measurement has a center of mass located equidistant and colinear with optical center points of two oppositely reflecting retroreflectors. Rotation of the test mass about its center of mass during freefall changes the path length of the oppositely reflected light beams by equal amounts, thereby achieving common mode cancellation of the effects of test mass rotation when the two reflected light beams are interferometrically combined.
US08931340B2	Contactless filling level measurement of liquids The invention relates to a device and a method for the contactless capacitive filling level measurement of a filling medium in a container, the device having a plurality of measurement electrodes and at least one reference electrode.
US08931339B2	Method for evaluating the measurement signals of a propagation-time based measurement device A method which allows especially the extrapolation of the measured value at the upper and lower end of a measuring range where normally no direct measurement range where normally no direct measurement is possible by superposition of interfering signals, for example by reflection on a radar antenna. In the presence of strong interference signals, for example by reflection of a radar antenna. In the presence of strong interference signals, which are for example caused by the natural resonance of the container or neck in which the measuring device is mounted, the direct level indicator signal can be regularly used if it has a high amplitude caused by a superposition with the interfering signal lies between two interfering signals and does not extend beyond these, the level indicator value can be interpolated by the shift of the signals from the point of reflection. The inventive method automatically adapts itself to a prevailing measuring situation while according to known methods for the user has to decide between a measurement via a shift of EOL signal or a measurement via the direct level indicator echo.
US08931337B2	Fluid meter, in particular for water A fluid meter includes a totaliser having an electronic card that communicates with a remote meter reading system. The electronic card may be contained in a metal housing covered in a leakproof manner by an upper transparent panel. The totaliser may be covered by a cover which retains the upper transparent panel in a leakproof manner. The cover may be covered by a cap made from plastic material. The upper transparent panel may be made from glass and the upper transparent panel and the cover may each include an orifice to allow communication between the electronic card and antenna disposed between the cover and the cap.
US08931333B2	Method for determining headwind velocity A method for determining a velocity of headwind flowing in the direction of a vehicle, based on a coolant mass flow of a coolant flowing through a heat exchanger of a cooling device of the vehicle, and an air mass flow flowing through the heat exchanger and triggered by the headwind, includes: determining a temperature drop of the coolant mass flow; determining the air mass flow responsible for the temperature drop of the coolant mass flow; and determining the velocity of the headwind flowing in the direction of the vehicle, based on the air mass flow responsible for the temperature drop of the coolant mass flow.
US08931332B2	Engine stroke determination apparatus There is provided an engine stroke determination apparatus. The engine stroke determination apparatus is for determining stroke of a single-cylinder four-stroke engine and includes a transistor igniter. The apparatus is configured to determine a compression stroke and an exhaust stroke by comparing voltages of ignition signals that are output in the compression stroke and the exhaust stroke by the transistor igniter.
US08931328B2	Multilayer structure having a microfluidic channel and a system for detecting leakage from the microfluidic channel, and method of detecting leakage in a microfluidic device A multilayer structure includes: a microfluidic circuit, delimited at least in part by a first sealing structure; a fluid-tight chamber delimited in part by a second sealing structure and in part by the first sealing structure, which is arranged in the fluid-tight chamber and is configured to provide a signal indicative of a leakage between the microfluidic circuit and the fluid-tight chamber.
US08931327B2	Dynamic canine tracking method for hazardous and illicit substances Vapor wake detection is a highly advantageous method and system for detecting explosives and other illicit substances. With vapor wake detection, a canine and a handler are used; however, unlike other detection schemes, the canine leads the handler. After the handler positions the canine in a desired location, the canine detects scents in the air that come to the canine. When the canine detects a trained scent, the canine leads the handler to or follows behind the carrier of the item with the scent. Once the carrier is identified by the handler, the proper personnel are contacted. To implement vapor wake detection effectively, specific rigorous training is utilized.
US08931326B1	Strapdown heading sensors and systems, and methods of calibrating and compensating the same A strapdown heading sensor includes an elongated housing and a compass module at least partially positioned within an inner cavity of the elongated housing. The compass module is cantilevered within the inner cavity of the elongated housing.

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