| Document | Document Title |
|---|---|
| US08962136B2 |
Pressure-sensitive adhesive sheet for surface protection
A surface-protecting pressure-sensitive adhesive sheet includes: a substrate; and a pressure-sensitive adhesive layer that is provided on at least one side of the substrate and made from a polyester-based pressure-sensitive adhesive composition containing a crosslinking agent and a polyester including at least a lactic acid unit, a dibasic acid unit, and a glycol unit. The dibasic acid unit includes a dimer acid, the polyester has a weight average molecular weight of 20,000 to 200,000 and a glass transition temperature of −70 to −20° C. as measured using a differential scanning calorimeter at a temperature rise rate of 20° C./minute, the polyester-based pressure-sensitive adhesive composition has a hydroxyl value of 20 to 60 mgKOH/g, and the pressure-sensitive adhesive layer has a gel fraction of 85 to 99% by weight. |
| US08962133B2 |
Electrophotographic member, intermediate transfer member, image forming apparatus, and method for manufacturing electrophotographic member
An object of the present invention is to provide: an electrophotographic member which enhances image quality, prevents the lowering of a grade of an image even when images have been repeatedly output, and can remarkably enhance the stability of the grade of the image; an intermediate transfer member; and an image forming apparatus. The electrophotographic member includes a base layer and a surface layer, wherein the surface layer has a binder resin, perfluoropolymer fine particles, a fluorocarbon resin dispersing agent and a particular fluorine compound, wherein the perfluoropolymer fine particle has a fluorine compound carried on its surface. |
| US08962132B2 |
Solid polymer electrolyte composite membrane comprising a porous support and a solid polymer electrolyte including a dispersed reduced noble metal or noble metal oxide
A solid polymer electrolyte composite membrane and method of manufacturing the same. According to one embodiment, the composite membrane comprises a thin, rigid, dimensionally-stable, non-electrically-conducting support, the support having a plurality of cylindrical, straight-through pores extending perpendicularly between opposing top and bottom surfaces of the support. The pores are unevenly distributed, with some or no pores located along the periphery and more pores located centrally. The pores are completely filled with a solid polymer electrolyte, the solid polymer electrolyte including a dispersed reduced noble metal or noble metal oxide. The solid polymer electrolyte may also be deposited over the top and/or bottom surfaces of the support. |
| US08962130B2 |
Low density lightning strike protection for use in airplanes
Surface films, paints, or primers can be used in preparing aircraft structural composites that may be exposed to lightning strikes. Methods for making and using these films, paints or primers are also disclosed. The surface film can include a thermoset resin or polymer, e.g., an epoxy resin and/or a thermoplastic polymer, which can be cured, bonded, or painted on the composite structure. Low-density electrically conductive materials are disclosed, such as carbon nanofiber, copper powder, metal coated microspheres, metal-coated carbon nanotubes, single wall carbon nanotubes, graphite nanoplatelets and the like, that can be uniformly dispersed throughout or on the film. Low density conductive materials can include metal screens, optionally in combination with carbon nanofibers. |
| US08962127B2 |
Ultrathin, porous and mechanically stable nonwoven fabric and method for manufacturing
An ultrathin, porous, and mechanically stable nonwoven fabric, a method for manufacturing the fabric, and the fabric's use are described. A nonwoven fabric is described having a thickness of less than 30 μm, which is chemically and/or thermally bonded, whose maximum tensile load in at least one direction is at least 15 N/5 cm, whose stretching in this direction at maximum tensile load is 35% at the most, and which has a porosity of at least 25%. This nonwoven fabric may be used as a separator material or as a carrier material for diaphragms. |
| US08962126B2 |
Surface-coated cutting tool having hard-coating layer with excellent chipping resistance and fracturing resistance
A surface-coated cutting tool, which has a hard-coating layer with excellent chipping and fracturing resistances in a high speed intermittent cutting work, is provided. The surface-coated cutting tool includes a cutting tool body, which is made of WC cemented carbide or TiCN-based cermet, and a hard-coating layer, which is vapor deposited on the cutting tool body and has a lower layer and an upper layer. The lower layer is a Ti compound layer, and the upper layer is an aluminum oxide layer. There is a micropore-rich layer in the lower layer in the vicinity of the interface between the lower and upper layers. There are micropores with diameters of 2 to 70 nm in the micropore-rich layer. The diameters of the micropores in the micropore-rich layer shows a bimodal distribution pattern. |
| US08962125B2 |
Anti-chipping sheet
An anti-chipping sheet includes at least a substrate layer and a pressure-sensitive adhesive layer, wherein the substrate layer comprises laminated multiple ionomer layers, each of which comprises an ionomer produced by neutralizing carboxyl groups of an ethylene-unsaturated carboxylic acid copolymer with metal ions, one of the multiple ionomer layers is a high-rigidity ionomer layer, located at the outermost layer and not in contact with the pressure-sensitive adhesive layer of the substrate layer, and having stiffness of 200 N/mm2 or higher, and another one of the multiple ionomer layers is a low-rigidity ionomer layer, located toward the pressure-sensitive adhesive layer in relation to the outermost layer, and having stiffness of lower than 200 N/mm2. |
| US08962122B2 |
Sealing material
The present invention provides a sealing material having excellent water resistance for a long time. A sealing material A of the present invention comprises: a rubber resin sheet 1; and a thermoplastic resin foam layer 2 formed at least on one surface of the rubber resin sheet 1. The sealing material A has a 25% compressive strength in a thickness direction of 2 to 40 kPa as measured in accordance with JIS K6767 and the thermoplastic resin foam layer 2 has a closed cell ratio of 10 to 60%. As a result, the sealing material A has excellent water resistance right after the use thereof and even after a long time has elapsed, and is suitably used in various applications. |
| US08962112B2 |
Intermediate transfer medium
In an intermediate transfer medium, a substrate, protective layers having a layered structure of two or more layers, and a receiving layer are layered in this order. One layer in the protective layers having the layered structure contains, as a main component, one material or a mixture of two or more materials selected from the group consisting of polyesters having a high polymerization degree, a number-average molecular weight (Mn) of not less than 12,000 and a Tg of not less than 60° C., polycarbonates and polyester urethanes. Another layer in the protective layers having the layered structure contains one or more materials selected from the group consisting of polyvinyl alcohols, polyvinyl butyrals, polyvinyl acetals and polyvinyl pyrrolidones or includes a cationic resin, and the receiving layer contains a side chain-type aralkyl-modified silicone in an amount of 0.5-5% by weight on a base of the total weight of the receiving layer. |
| US08962109B2 |
Liquid crystal display
A liquid crystal display includes a liquid crystal cell; a back light including a light source; and a laminated polarizing plate including a protective film, a polarizing film, and a retardation film in sequence from the side of the back light, wherein the angle defined by any one of the long and short sides of the polarizing plate and the absorption axis of the polarization film is 45°, the retardation film has an in-plane slow axis parallel or orthogonal to the absorption axis of the polarizing film, and the liquid crystal display satisfies the formula: M=|δTD/δMD|≧2.0, where M represents the ratio of the dimensional change rates in the entire polarizing plate, δMD (%) represents a percent change of the polarizing plate in the absorption axis direction, and δTD (%) represents a percent change of the polarizing plate in the direction orthogonal to the absorption axis. |
| US08962108B2 |
Liquid crystal display panel and liquid crystal display
A liquid crystal display panel includes a liquid crystal cell, a first polarizing plate placed on one side of the liquid crystal cell, a second polarizing plate placed on the other side of the liquid crystal cell, a retardation film placed between the liquid crystal cell and the first polarizing plate, and a pressure-sensitive adhesive layer placed between the liquid crystal cell and the retardation film, wherein the first and second polarizing plates have absorption axes whose directions are substantially orthogonal to each other, the retardation film is a norbornene resin-containing stretched film and has a refractive index ellipsoid satisfying the relation nx≧nz>ny, and the pressure-sensitive adhesive layer includes a pressure-sensitive adhesive that may be produced by crosslinking a composition including a (meth)acrylate (co)polymer and a crosslinking agent including a peroxide as a main component. When the liquid crystal display panel is viewed from oblique directions, leakage of light and changes in color are small, and when the liquid crystal cell is recycled, the laminated film has a high level of easy peelability. |
| US08962105B2 |
Liquid crystal composition and liquid crystal display device
To provide a liquid crystal composition satisfying at least one of characteristics such as a high maximum temperature of a nematic phase, a low minimum temperature of the nematic phase, a small viscosity, a suitable optical anisotropy, a large negative dielectric anisotropy, a large specific resistance, a high stability to ultraviolet light and a high stability to heat, and so forth. To provide an AM device having a short response time, a large voltage holding ratio, a large contrast ratio, a long service life and so forth. The liquid crystal composition contains a specific compound having a polymerizable group as a first component and a specific compound having a large negative dielectric anisotropy and a low minimum temperature as a second component, and may contain a specific compound having a small viscosity or a large maximum temperature as a third component, and a liquid crystal display device includes the composition. |
| US08962102B2 |
Compounds and liquid-crystalline medium
The invention relates to compounds of the formula I, and to a liquid-crystalline medium, preferably having a nematic phase and negative dielectric anisotropy, which comprises one or more compounds of formula I, defined herein, for use in an electro-optical display, particularly in an active-matrix display based on the VA, ECB, PALO, FFS or IPS effect, and to the use of the compounds of the formula I for the stabilization of a liquid-crystalline medium which comprises one or more compounds of the formula II and one or more compounds of the formulae III-1 to III-4, defined herein. |
| US08962100B2 |
Method for making diamond composite materials
The invention relates to a method for depositing a diamond coating onto a substrate, said method resulting in the production of a coating characterized by a novel morphology of the diamond in the form of pyramids containing submicronic grains. The method is carried out by chemical vapor deposition by controlling the applied electric field. |
| US08962092B2 |
Paper sizing using an agent containing uniformly bound octenyl succinic anhydride groups made by the reaction of octenyl succinic anhydride onto a dispersed waxy starch
The application relates to an agent containing bound octenyl succinic anhydride groups made via the reaction of octenyl succinic anhydride onto a dispersed waxy starch, which provides significant improvements in paper porosity reduction, when added at a low level to a commodity surface starch dispersion and used to surface size paper. |
| US08962090B2 |
Variable-density carbon nanotube film and method for manufacturing the same
A method for making a variable-density carbon nanotube film is provided. A drawn carbon nanotube film, including a number of carbon nanotubes aligned along an aligned direction, is prepared. A number of thin regions are formed in the drawn carbon nanotube film along the aligned direction by reducing density of carbon nanotubes in each of the plurality of thin regions. A variable-density carbon nanotube film is provided and includes a number of thin regions and at least one normal region having a density of carbon nanotubes greater than that of the thin regions. The at least one normal region includes a number of carbon nanotubes substantially aligned along an aligned direction. The thin regions are arranged in the form of at least one row extending along the aligned direction. |
| US08962089B2 |
Method for the flow coating of a polymeric material
Method for flow coating a polymeric material, wherein a. at least one component (1) is inserted at an angle of 25° to 90° relative to the floor (5) into a holder (2), and b. the component (1) is coated from the upper edge (1a) with a varnish (3), containing 10 wt.-% to 30 wt.-% of 4-methyl-2-pentanone and/or derivatives thereof. |
| US08962088B2 |
Method and finish for concrete walls
A method for forming a uniform texture concrete wall using Shotcrete or other pneumatically projected concrete materials. The method generally includes forming an exterior face mixture from a concrete mixture wherein the large aggregates are removed such that when the face mixture is pneumatically applied to a base structure, the face mixture defines a uniform surface. |
| US08962086B2 |
Process for coating a surface of a substrate made of nonmetallic material with a metal layer
A process for coating a surface of a substrate made of nonmetallic material with a metal layer consisting of providing a substrate made of nonmetallic material; subjecting a surface of said substrate to a treatment for increasing the specific surface area thereof; subjecting the resulting surface to an oxidizing treatment; contacting the resulting substrate with a solution containing an ion of a metal from groups IB and VIII of the Periodic Table; obtaining a substrate comprising ions of a metal that are chemically attached to the nonmetallic material constituting the substrate on at least one of its surfaces; subjecting the ions to a reducing treatment to obtain a substrate comprising atoms of a metal that are chemically attached to the nonmetallic material constituting the substrate on a part of at least one of its surfaces; and contacting the resulting surface with a solution containing ions of a metal. |
| US08962084B2 |
Methods of applying a layer of material to a non-planar glass sheet
Methods apply a layer of material to a glass sheet having a non-planar shape. The methods can each include the step of providing the glass sheet having an initial non-planar shape including a thickness defined between a first sheet surface and a second sheet surface. The method further includes the step of at least partially flattening the glass sheet into an application shape. The method further includes the step of applying the layer of material to the first sheet surface while the glass sheet is in the application shape. The method then includes the step of releasing the glass sheet to relax into a post non-planar shape. |
| US08962082B2 |
Control system for non-contact edge coating apparatus for solar cell substrates
A non-contact edge coating apparatus includes an applicator for applying a coating material on an edge of a solar cell substrate and a control system configured to drive the applicator. The control system may drive the applicator along an axis to maintain a distance with an edge of the substrate as the substrate is rotated to have the edge coated with a coating material. The applicator may include a recessed portion into which the edge of the substrate is received for edge coating. For example, the applicator may be a roller with a groove. Coating material may be introduced into the groove for application onto the edge of the substrate. A variety of coating materials may be employed with the apparatus including hot melt ink and UV curable plating resist. |
| US08962080B2 |
Method for patterning a polymer layer and method for packaging a microbattery
The method for patterning a polymer layer arranged on a support comprises deposition of a layer made from a lithium-based polymerization inhibitor material on a first area of the support, deposition of a cationically polymerizable material on the polymerization inhibitor layer and on a second area of the support, application of polymerization treatment resulting in a non-solidified sacrificial layer in the first area and the polymer layer in the second area, and elimination of the sacrificial layer. |
| US08962079B2 |
Manufacturing optical elements
A method includes the steps of: providing a substrate; providing a tool having, on a replication side, a plurality of replication sections, each replication section defining a surface structure of one of an optical element(s), the tool further including at least one contact spacer portion, the contact spacer portion protruding, on the replication side, further than an outermost feature of the replication sections; aligning the tool with a feature of the substrate and bringing the tool and a first side of the substrate together, with replication material between the tool and the substrate, the contact spacer portion contacting the first side of the substrate, and thereby causing the spacer portion to adhere to the first side of the substrate, thereby producing a substrate-tool-assembly; dislocating the substrate-tool-assembly to a hardening station; causing the replication material to harden at the hardening station; and separating the tool from the substrate with the hardened replication material adhering to the substrate. |
| US08962074B2 |
Device and method for applying glue
A device for applying glue onto labels, includes a drum rotatable about a predetermined rotational axis and, a glue application unit for applying glue onto an external surface of the rotatable drum. The glue application unit includes a receiving space for receiving the glue as well as a supply unit for applying the glue to the receiving space which is arranged relative to the drum such that any glue present in the glue application unit contacts the drum in a predetermined contact area. The glue application unit includes a first wall element, which contacts the drum during operation, and a second wall element arranged behind the first wall element in the direction of movement of the drum and which also contacts the drum. At least one wall element is elastically pressed against the external surface of the drum. |
| US08962071B2 |
Process for cold-in-place recycling using foamed asphalt and lubrication additive
Cold-in-place asphalt recycling is disclosed. A foamed asphalt may be produced by injecting water and optionally compressed air into a hot asphalt stream. A lubricating surfactant may be added to the hot asphalt stream to improve performance. The foamed asphalt may be mixed with reclaimed material to provide a uniformly coated paving material that can compacted to a desired density. |
| US08962066B2 |
Coating for cooling air holes
A method of repairing a component removes a prior coating from an underlying metal substrate. Small cooling air holes extend through the substrate and the coating that is to be removed. A new coating layer is placed on the metal substrate, and over the existing cooling air holes. The location of the cooling air holes is identified by inspecting the coated component for the location of indicators of the coating passing over the cooling air holes. The identified location of the indicators is used to control a cutting tool to remove any new coating from the cooling air holes. The basic method may also benefit new manufacture. |
| US08962062B2 |
Methods of manufacturing end effectors for energy-based surgical instruments
A method of manufacturing an end effector for a surgical instrument includes providing a substrate wherein at least an outer periphery of the substrate is formed from an electrically-insulative material. The method further includes forming at least one ridge on the outer periphery of the substrate and depositing an electrically-conductive material onto the at least one ridge to form at least one electrode. |
| US08962059B1 |
Bio-based oil composition and method for producing the same
A method of extracting oil from a byproduct stream of a bio-based ethanol production process and a organic composition resulting from the method is provided. The method includes applying an oil concentrator to a byproduct stream, mixing the oil concentrator with the byproduct stream, and separating the oil from the byproduct stream. An organic composition comprising oil derived from a byproduct stream of a bio-based ethanol production process and an oil concentrator is also provided. |
| US08962056B2 |
Fiber particle size reduction in fiber-containing food slurries
Techniques are described to increase product viscosity in fiber-containing food slurries having a given amount of food solids. The techniques employ one or more PSR operations as the last unit operation prior to filling to reduce particle size within the food slurry and increase product viscosity. In one or more implementations, the PSR operation may comprise an aseptic cold PSR operation such as aseptic cold homogenization. In embodiments, the PSR operation may further be controlled to reduce variability in the viscosity of the finished product. |
| US08962054B2 |
Methods of making snack food products and products made thereby
Methods of making low-fat or fat free snack food products, and products made according to the methods, in which food pieces are subjected to enzyme and/or cation treatment and/or specific cooking and/or drying techniques, to provide for snack food products having the texture, flavor, and other characteristics of conventional full-fat products. |
| US08962053B2 |
Device for heating and/or frothing a beverage
The present invention relates to a device for heating and/or frothing a beverage (19), including: a first duct (21) connectable to an upstream steam source and having a first valve (31) configured to be opened and closed and to enable or prevent steam flow into the duct; a second duct (22) connectable to the upstream steam source and having a second valve (32) configured to be opened and closed and to enable or prevent steam flow into the duct; mixing means (14), which are connected to a common point of the first and second ducts (21, 22), are located downstream of the first duct (21) and the first valve (31) and downstream of the second duct (22) and the second valve (32) and are arranged to introduce and mix at least steam into the beverage. The device further comprises a Venturi assembly (22a) configured to operate by Venturi effect in order to mix air with steam in one the two ducts when the other of the two ducts is closed. Thanks to the device of the invention, heated beverages can be obtained in considerably quick times. The invention also relates to a method for heating and/or frothing beverages, as well as to an espresso coffee machine including the device. |
| US08962052B2 |
Carbonated beverages
Acidulated carbonated beverage containing a foam control agent and/or carbon dioxide control agent. The control agent contains a polyoxyethylene sorbitan fatty acid ester or a polyethylene glycol fatty acid ester. |
| US08962046B2 |
Satiety inducing products and a method of their production
The invention relates to a food product inducing satiety with the aim of contributing to weight management. The product contains as its essential ingredients viscous soluble dietary fiber or other thickening agent and fat or fatty acids. A preferred component contained in the product is a barley or oat bran concentrate rich in β-glucan. The product may have a pasty consistency, or it may have a particulate consistency and can be turned to a paste by addition of water. |
| US08962044B2 |
Radiopaque bone repair mixture and method of use
A composition of a bone repair mixture has a quantity of allograft particulate bone having a bone particle distribution of particle sizes less than 700 micron and a quantity of biologic carrier material intermixed with the particulate bone. The biologic carrier material is one of fascia, deep fascia or a fascia mixture. Preferably, the carrier material is exclusively fascia lata. |
| US08962043B2 |
Visual performance and/or macular pigmentation
Disclosed is a composition comprising MZ for use as a dietary supplement or food additive for oral consumption for improving the visual performance of a human subject. |
| US08962039B2 |
Method of treatment of neurodegenerative or neuro-muscular degenerative diseases and therapeutic agent to treat the same
Use of high doses above 1 gm per day of ascorbic acid or the derivatives thereof for the treatment of neurodegenerative and neuro-muscular degenerative diseases and disorders, in particular amytrophic lateral sclerosis, multiple sclerosis, alzheimer's disease, parkinson's disease, and muscular dystrophy is disclosed. Preferably the dose includes mannitol which facilitates the delivery of ascorbic acid to the target cells in the brain. Still further the said dose includes zinc citrate for preventing formation of kidney stones. Dose compositions for various routes of application such as oral, intravenous, intramuscular, nasal and in the form of transdermal patches are discussed. |
| US08962035B2 |
Variable density tissue graft composition and methods of making and using the same
Disclosed are tissue graft compositions made of materials having different densities, methods of making, and methods of treatment for restoring tissues in a patient. |
| US08962033B2 |
Method for improved fibrin sealing
The present invention relates to a fibrin matrix, its preparation and use for effectively sealing a defect in a mucosa or other moist tissue. |
| US08962027B2 |
Materials comprising water-soluble polymer particles and methods of making and using them
One aspect of the invention relates to new materials for storing, protecting, selectively releasing, and applying active ingredients (e.g. pharmaceuticals and other chemicals). In certain embodiments, the invention provides materials impregnated with water-soluble polymer particles which contain active ingredients which may be selectively released and dispensed in response to contact with water or another liquid. |
| US08962026B2 |
Nanoemulsion therapeutic compositions and methods of using the same
The present invention relates to therapeutic nanoemulsion compositions and to methods of utilizing the same. In particular, nanoemulsion compositions are described herein that find use in the treatment and/or prevention of infection (e.g., respiratory infection (e.g., associated with cystic fibrosis)), in burn wound management, and in immunogenic compositions (e.g., comprising a Burkholderia antigen) that generate an effective immune response (e.g., against a bacterial species of the genus Burkholderia) in a subject administered the immunogenic composition. Compositions and methods of the present invention find use in, among other things, clinical (e.g. therapeutic and preventative medicine), industrial, and research applications. |
| US08962025B2 |
Rapidly acting dry sealant and methods for use and manufacture
Compositions, methods, and kits are provided for sealing applications. Compositions are prepared by combining a first cross-linkable component with a second cross-linkable component to form a porous matrix having interstices, and combining the porous matrix with a hydrogel-forming component to fill at least some of the interstices. The compositions exhibit minimal swelling properties. |
| US08962021B2 |
Solid pharmaceutical composition comprising telithromycin
This invention relates to a solid pharmaceutical tablet comprising telithromycin or a salt thereof as an active ingredient in combination with a plasticizing effective amount of a microcrystalline cellulose diluent having a plastic behavior. Optional ingredients include a binder, a disintegrating agent and a lubricant, and the tablet may be optionally coated with a film-coating agent. |
| US08962015B2 |
Orally bioavailable lipid-based constructs
The present invention is embodied by a composition capable of chaperoning a typically non-orally available therapeutic or diagnostic agent through the environment of the digestive tract such that the therapeutic or diagnostic agent is bioavailable. The composition may or may not be targeted to specific cellular receptors, such as hepatocytes. Therapeutic agents include, but are not limited to, insulin, calcitonin, serotonin, and other proteins. Targeting is accomplished with biotin or metal based targeting agents. |
| US08962010B2 |
Intravaginal drug delivery devices for the delivery of macromolecules and water-soluble drugs
An intravaginal drug delivery device comprises a device body comprising a hydrophobic carrier material having at least one channel defining at least one opening to the exterior of said device body, said at least one channel being adapted to receive at least one drug-containing insert; at least one drug-containing insert positioned in said at least one channel, said drug-containing insert capable of releasing a pharmaceutically effective amount of at least one drug suitable for intravaginal administration and containing about 1% to about 70% of at least one water-soluble release enhancer, both the drug and the water-soluble release enhancer dispersed in an insert carrier material; wherein said hydrophobic carrier material and said insert carrier material may be the same or different; and wherein said at least one drug-containing insert is exposed on said exterior of said device body when said intravaginal drug delivery device is in use. |
| US08962005B2 |
Gastric reflux resistant dosage forms
Gastric resistant film-forming compositions are described herein. The composition comprises a gastric resistant natural polymer, a film-forming natural polymer, and optionally a gelling agent. Suitable gastric resistant natural polymers include polysaccharides such as pectin and pectin-like polymers. The film-forming composition can be used to prepare soft or hard shell gelatin capsules which can encapsulate a liquid or semi-solid fill material or a solid tablet (Softlet®) comprising an active agent and one or more pharmaceutically acceptable excipients. Alternatively, the composition can be administered as a liquid with an active agent dissolved or dispersed in the composition. The compositions are not only gastric resistant but may also prevent gastric reflux associated with odor causing liquids, such as fish oil or garlic oil, encapsulated in a unit dosage form and esophageal irritation due to the reflux of irritant drugs delivered orally. |
| US08962004B2 |
Encapsulated triazinyl sulfonylurea herbicide and methods of use
The invention relates to compositions including an encapsulated triazinyl sulfonylurea. The invention further relates to methods for controlling weeds. The invention additionally provides methods for producing such compositions. |
| US08962003B2 |
Insect behaviour modifying compounds
The invention provides methods for controlling thrips populations using thrips-repelling and/or thrips-attracting agents. The invention also provides methods of preventing or minimizing damage to plants by use of the same. |
| US08962001B2 |
Nuclease inhibitors and methods for their use
A class of anionic oligomers and polymers that function for inhibition of nucleases, particularly RNase. Specific inhibitors include mixtures of oligomers of vinyl sulfate. Methods for inhibition or inactivation of one or more nucleases in vitro which comprises the step of contacting the one or more nucleases in a biological medium with one or more of the anionic oligomeric or polymeric inhibitors of this invention. Kits for carrying out a biological procedure, biological reaction and/or a biological assay containing one or more inhibitors of this invention. The use of oligomers and/or polymers of this invention as additives in buffers or reagents. The inhibitors of the invention can also be attached to surfaces to provide for removal of nucleases from media, solutions or other liquids in contact with the solid. |
| US08961999B2 |
Methods and compositions for bone formation
A method and system to induce bone growth by locally delivering bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs) to the target location for a prolonged period without invasive procedures are disclosed. The new bone growth is induced by delivering cells producing BMPs from transduced viral vectors to the target cite. In various embodiments, the cells are encapsulated in hydrogel microspheres that are non-degradable or degradable by enzymes produced during the bone formation process. Various embodiments may be used to induce spinal fusion or repair critical bone defects. |
| US08961995B2 |
Methods and compositions for alphavirus replicons
The present invention provides alphavirus replicons and methods of their use in producing heterologous protein. |
| US08961992B1 |
Epsigam fusion protein
Epsi-gam provides a novel fusion protein with the ability to cross-link either of the FcεRI or FcεRII cell surface receptors with an FcγRIIb cell surface receptor in order to block IgE-mediated biological responses. |
| US08961986B2 |
Peptide composition
There is provided a method for selecting a tolerogenic peptide by selecting a peptide which is capable of binding to an MHC class I or II molecule without further processing. There is also provided a peptide selected by such a method and its use in a pharmaceutical composition and a method to treat and/or prevent a disease. The present invention also relates to a composition which comprises the following myelin basic protein peptides: MBP 30-44; MBP 83-99; MBP 131-145; and MBP 140-154. The composition may be used to treat a disease, in particular multiple sclerosis and/or optical neuritis and the invention also relates to such uses and methods. |
| US08961985B2 |
Immunotherapy against several tumors including neuronal and brain tumors
The present invention relates to peptides, nucleic acids and cells for use in immunotherapeutic methods. In particular, the present invention relates to the immunotherapy of cancer. The present invention furthermore relates to tumor-associated cytotoxic T cell (CTL) peptide epitopes, alone or in combination with other tumor-associated peptides that serve as active pharmaceutical ingredients of vaccine compositions that stimulate anti-tumor immune responses. The present invention relates to 30 peptide sequences and their variants derived from HLA class I and class II molecules of human tumor cells that can be used in vaccine compositions for eliciting anti-tumor immune responses. |
| US08961984B2 |
Surface-coated structures and methods
The present invention relates to a method for covalently attaching a compound to a stainless steel, tin, iron, or titanium substrate, by contacting exposed surface(s) of the substrate with a synthetic pilin peptide containing a disulfide loop derived from the C-terminal receptor binding protein of Type IV P. aeruginosa (T4P) pilin, to bind the pilin peptide to the exposed surface(s), and covalently attaching the compound to the pilin peptide. Also disclosed are a substrate formed by the method and a biosensor device that uses the uses. Also disclosed are methods for improving the corrosion resistance, adhesive force, hardness and electron work function of certain metals. |
| US08961969B2 |
Antagonist antibodies against EphB3
EphB3-specific antibodies are provided, along with pharmaceutical compositions containing such antibody, kits containing a pharmaceutical composition, and methods of preventing and treating an EphB3-related disease or disorder. |
| US08961968B2 |
Human monoclonal antibodies against CD25
Isolated human monoclonal antibodies which bind to and inhibit human CD25, and related antibody-based compositions and molecules, are disclosed. The human antibodies can be produced by a hybridoma, a transfectoma or in a nonhuman transgenic animal, e.g., a transgenic mouse, capable of producing multiple isotypes of human monoclonal antibodies by undergoing V-D-J recombination and isotype switching. Also disclosed are pharmaceutical compositions comprising the human antibodies, nonhuman transgenic animals, hybridomas and transfectomas which produce the human antibodies, and therapeutic and diagnostic methods for using the human antibodies. |
| US08961964B2 |
High concentration antibody and protein formulations
The present application relates to highly concentrated antibody and protein formulations with reduced viscosity that are stable, relatively isotonic and are of low turbidity. The formulations are particularly suitable for subcutaneous administration. The application further describes articles of manufacture containing such formulations and method for using them to treat disorders treatable by the formulated antibody or protein. |
| US08961963B2 |
Pharmacological composition whereby statin and COQ10 compounds are enhanced
Disclosed is a pharmaceutical natural composition containing both statin compounds (mevinolin and mevinolinic acid) serving as cholesterol biosynthesis inhibitors and coenzyme Q (ubiquinone-10: CoQ10 and ubiquinone-9: CoQ9) compounds which are substances that inhibit factors causing complications such as myalgia involved in long-term use of the statin, prepared using Monascus sp. and natural medicinal substances such as ginseng, mushrooms and cereals. |
| US08961962B2 |
Acid ceramidase and mammalian cell survival
The present invention relates to methods of promoting the survival of cells by treating the cells with acid ceramidase. A kit for promoting ex vivo cell survival is also disclosed, as is a method of predicting in vitro fertilization outcome of a female subject. |
| US08961959B2 |
Glucosylceramide synthase inhibitors and therapeutic methods using the same
Glucosylceramide synthase inhibitors and compositions containing the same are disclosed. Methods of using the glucosylceramide synthase inhibitors in the treatment of diseases and conditions wherein inhibition of glucosylceramide synthase provides a benefit, like Gaucher disease and Fabry disease, also are disclosed. |
| US08961957B2 |
Therapy and method for intratumorally introducing cytotoxic T lymphocyte and/or NKT cell with anti-TNF and/or anti-IL-10
The invention relates to therapy and methods of applying the therapy to cancer patients. The invention includes introducing intratumorally cytotoxic T lymphocyte and/or NKT cells, and prior to, coincident with, or following introducing intratumorally the cytotoxic T lymphocyte and/or NKT cells, introducing intratumorally anti-TNF and/or anti-IL-10 to the patient. The cytotoxic T lymphocyte and/or NKT cells can be induced by the intratumoral introduction of immature dendritic cells to the patient. This therapy of the invention can be effective to regress, reduce or eliminate tumor cells in tumor tissue of the patients in the absence of radiation therapy. |
| US08961956B2 |
Mesenchymal stromal cells and uses related thereto
The present invention generally relates to novel preparations of mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) derived from hemangioblasts, methods for obtaining such MSCs, and methods of treating a pathology using such MSCs. The methods of the present invention produce substantial numbers of MSCs having a potency-retaining youthful phenotype, which are useful in the treatment of pathologies. |
| US08961953B2 |
Synbiotic mixture
This invention relates to a preparation comprising N-acetyl-lactosamine and/or an oligosaccharide containing N-acetyl-lactosamine and a probiotic Lactobacillus sp. The invention extends to nutritional compositions comprising said preparation and to the use of the preparation in the prevention and treatment of pathogenic infections of the gastro-intestinal and upper respiratory tracts. |
| US08961952B2 |
Extruded non-replicating probiotic micro-organisms and their health benefits
The present invention generally relates to the field of probiotic micro-organisms, in particular to the field of non-replicating probiotic micro-organisms. Embodiments of the present invention relate to compositions comprising probiotic micro-organisms that were rendered non-replicating by extrusion. Such compositions may be used to treat or prevent disorders that are related to a compromised immune system. |
| US08961951B2 |
Baculoviruses with enhanced virion production and a method for the production of baculoviruses
The present invention provides a method for restoring budding capability to GP64null baculoviruses including gp64null AcMNPV by expressing therein a portion of the VSV G protein gene or a truncated “stem” portion of the GP64 gene. Other embodiments provide methods to use portions of the G-stem or GP64 protein to target foreign proteins for display on virions. |
| US08961949B2 |
Polymer-metal complex composite having MRI contrast ability and MRI contrasting and/or antitumor composition using the same
The present invention provides a polymer-metal complex composite, which comprises a block copolymer capable of serving as a constituent member of a polymeric micelle and a metal complex having MRI contrast ability, accumulates in a tumor-specific manner, achieves high image contrast even in a small amount, and has reduced side effects and a long retention time in blood.The polymer-metal complex composite of the present invention comprises a block copolymer (A) represented by general formula (a) and a metal complex (B) having MRI contrast ability, wherein the composite comprises a structure in which a carboxyl anion of poly(carbo) in the copolymer (A) is attached to the metal complex (B) via a metal atom (M). |
| US08961947B2 |
Polymeric tissue sealant
Methods for making biomaterials for use as a tissue sealant, kits containing precursors for forming the biomaterials, and the resulting biomaterials are described herein. The biomaterials are formed from a composition comprising at least a first and a second precursor molecule, wherein: i) the first precursor molecule is a poly(ethylene glycol) based polymer having x nucleophilic groups selected from the group consisting of thiol or amino groups, wherein x is greater than or equal to 2 ii) the second precursor molecule is of the general formula: A-[(C3H6O)n—(C2H4O)m—B]i wherein m and n are integers from 1 to 200 i is greater than 2 A is a branch point B is a conjugated unsaturated group The precursors are selected based on the desired properties of the biomaterial. Optionally, the biomaterials contain additives, such as thixotropic agents, radiopaque agents, or bioactive agents. In the preferred embodiment, the biomaterials are used to reduce, inhibit, or contain loss of a biological fluid or gas in a patient. |
| US08961946B2 |
Hair processing agent and method for permanent waving hair
Provided are hair processing agents capable of permanent waving hair even at a neutral to weakly acidic pH range that causes less irritation to the skin, and hair processing agents in which an unpleasant odor is masked. Hair processing agents contain at least one compound represented by the formula (2). Hair processing agents contain a compound of the formula (2) and at least one compound (ii) selected from thioglycolic acid, thiolactic acid, cysteine, acetylcysteine, cysteamine, acylcysteamine, salts thereof and ester derivatives thereof. Hair processing agents contain a compound of the formula (2), a surfactant and water, and are emulsified. Hair processing agents contain a compound of the formula (2) and a specific perfume. wherein X is a structure selected from —O—, —S—, —NH— and —NR1—; R1 is an alkyl group of 1 to 6 carbon atoms; Y is an oxygen atom or a sulfur atom; in the formula (1), Z is a divalent organic residue having at least one mercapto group; in the formula (2), R is a divalent organic residue optionally having a mercapto group; and R2 is a hydrogen atom or an alkyl group of 1 to 6 carbon atoms. |
| US08961945B2 |
Cationic polyglyceryl compositions and compounds
Provided are polyglyceryl compositions comprising one or more polyglyceryl compounds having: (a) a node structure comprising at least three contiguous glyceryl remnant units; (b) one or more cationic groups each linked to the node structure by an independently selected linking group; and (c) one or more hydrophobic moieties each independently (i) linked to the node structure by a linking group, or (ii) constituting a portion of one of the one or more cationic groups, wherein the composition has an average degree of polymerization determined by hydroxyl value testing (DPOH) of from about 3 to about 20. Also provided are polyglyceryl compounds which may compose such compositions, and uses of the polyglyceryl compositions and compounds. |
| US08961944B2 |
Use of delta-tocopheryl-carbohydrate as a depigmenting agent
The present invention relates to a cosmetic or pharmaceutical composition for cutaneous application, whose goal is the depigmentation of the skin. |
| US08961943B2 |
O/W-emulsifiers, O/W-emulsions and methods of manufacture thereof
O/W-emulsifiers are described, comprising: (a) 30-50% by weight of hardened palm oil glycerides; (b) 15-35% by weight of potassium cetyl phosphates; (c) 20-30% by weight of cetyl alcohol, and (d) 5-15% by weight of potassium phosphate, in each case with respect to the total mass of the emulsifier. Further described are corresponding O/W-emulsions, comprising an aqueous phase, an oil phase dispersed in the aqueous phase and between 0.25 and 15% by weight of the abovementioned O/W-emulsifier. Finally, also described are methods for manufacturing such an O/W-emulsion. |
| US08961939B2 |
Compositions and related methods for oral wellness
Disclosed are compositions, apparatus, and related methods and systems for oral health care. |
| US08961935B2 |
MRI contrast agent coated with carboxylated mannan and method for producing the same
The present invention relates to a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) contrast agent coated with carboxylated mannan, particularly a carboxylated mannan coated superparamagnetic MRI contrast agent specifically targeting antigen presenting cells and having excellent in vivo stability, and a method for producing the same. The MRI contrast agent coated with carboxylated mannan of the present invention can provide excellent in vivo stability and biocompatibility owing to its high surface negative charge, and can be introduced specifically into antigen presenting cells owing to mannose of mannan, so as to visualize the antigen presenting cells and the tissue containing the antigen presenting cells in MRI. |
| US08961922B2 |
Hydrogen production process
A method for producing hydrogen from water is provided. The hydrogen production process includes splitting water into hydrogen and oxygen, wherein the process includes decomposing sulfuric acid into water, sulfur dioxide and oxygen through a reaction of formula (X1) by using solar thermal energy, wherein at least a part of the elementary reaction of formula (X1-1) is performed using thermal solar energy, and at least a part of the elementary reaction of formula (X1-2) is performed using additional thermal energy other than solar thermal energy, and wherein the heating temperature by the additional thermal energy is higher by 10° C. or more than the heating temperature by the solar thermal energy, and at least a part of the additional thermal energy is generated in a reaction vessel: (X1) H2SO4→H2O+SO2+1/2O2, (X1-1) H2SO4→H2O+SO3, and (X1-2) SO3→SO2+1/2O2. |
| US08961921B2 |
Apparatus and method for producing liquid ferrate
A method for producing a ferrate solution by producing a ferrate intermediate material and then combining the intermediate material with a halogen or ozone solution. |
| US08961920B1 |
Methods of altering the color of a diamond by irradiation and high-pressure/high-temperature processing
Embodiments of methods of altering the color of diamonds are disclosed. In an embodiment, a method for altering the color of diamonds includes identifying and selecting a diamond having a suitable nitrogen content, HPHT processing the selected diamond under diamond-stable conditions to alter the color of the selected diamond from a first color to a second color, irradiating the HPHT-processed diamond with an electron source having an energy between about 1 MeV and about 20 MeV so as to alter the color of the selected diamond from the second color to a third color, and annealing the irradiated diamond either under partial vacuum conditions, or under HPHT diamond-stable conditions so as to alter the color from the third color to a fourth color (e.g., pink, red, or purple, depending on the nitrogen content of the selected diamond). |
| US08961918B2 |
Thermal annealing process
A method for processing a substrate is provided; wherein the method comprises applying a film of a copolymer composition, comprising a poly(styrene)-b-poly(dimethylsiloxane) block copolymer component to a surface of the substrate; optionally, baking the film; subjecting the film to a high temperature annealing process under particularized atmospheric conditions for a specified period of time; followed by a treatment of the annealed film to remove the poly(styrene) from the annealed film and to convert the poly(dimethylsiloxane) in the annealed film to SiOx. |
| US08961916B1 |
Methods to control flue gas and inorganics precipitation
This invention presents innovative methods for desulfurizing flue gas in conjunction with selective inorganics recovery using calcium chloroaluminate or calcium chloroferrate as a layered double hydroxide reagent. One of the aspects of such methods is based on scrubbing SO2 in a standalone closed loop. Further aspects of such methods are based on scrubbing SO2 by the natural alkalinity of a saline stream as a once-through sink along with controlled precipitation of magnesium hydroxide and a calcium-based mineral in a standalone basis; or in conjunction with desalination methods and/or enhanced hydrocarbons recovery. |
| US08961915B1 |
Wet scrubber for ammonia capture
A method for removing ammonia from a gas stream divides the gas steam into a plurality of separate gas streams and sprays a dilute acid solution into the streams. The acid solution is aqueous sulfuric acid and ammonium sulfate is produced. A device is used to divide the gas stream, the device having a plurality of conduits in fluid communication with a plenum. Spray nozzles are located in each conduit to spray the acid solution into the gas streams. The device creates less than 10 Pa back pressure to the gas stream. |
| US08961914B2 |
8-ring small pore molecular sieve with promoter to improve low temperature performance
Described is a selective catalytic reduction catalyst comprising an 8-ring small pore molecular sieve promoted with copper and an alkaline earth component. The catalyst is effective to catalyze the reduction of nitrogen oxides (NOx) in the presence of a reductant. A method for selectively reducing nitrogen oxides is also described. |
| US08961911B2 |
Selective leach recovery of zinc from a composite sulphide ore deposit, tailings, crushed ore or mine sludge
Zinc and lead are usually concomitantly present in Zn—Pb ores and tailings. A novel non-polluting hydrometallurgical process for selectively leaching and recovering zinc (Zn) from a composite lead (Pb) and zinc sulphide containing mineral, crushed untreated rock or unconsolidated mineral particles, mill tailings and/or agglomerated or unagglomerated sulphidic zinc containing waste material without necessitating smelting and refining operation has been developed. A combination of selected oxidant and alkali metal hydroxide has been found effective. A leachant consisting of e.g. a mixture of sodium hydroxide (NaOH) and sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl) is employed to selectively dissolve zinc sulphide at high pH at standard temperature and pressure (STP). The kinetics of leaching along with the effect of varying concentration (preferably of sodium hydroxide and sodium hypochlorite) were systematically investigated. Feed ore containing diverse set of minerals e.g. sulphides and carbonates can also be conveniently treated to selectively and almost quantitatively recover zinc as high purity zinc carbonate. This technology can be employed either in-situ or ex-situ based on the amenability of a particular type of mineral deposit or feed ore. |
| US08961908B1 |
Miniature western blot membrane incubation system
An incubation system for incubating membranes in western blot experiments featuring a base with an inner cavity adapted to hold membranes and small amounts of solutions and a lid that can pivot between an open and closed position to respectively allow and prevent access to the inner cavity. A gasket is disposed in between the lid and base to provide a water-tight seal between the lid and base. The systems can be stacked atop one another to allow for multiple systems to be placed atop a moving platform such as a rocking platform or an orbital shaker. |
| US08961907B2 |
Apparatus for the detection and analysis of particles in fluids
The invention relates to apparatus for the detection of particles and for particle analysis. The apparatus comprises a sample holder comprising a base and a projection extending from the base. The base includes a contact region where, in use, the surface of a fluid sample may contact the projection. The surface of at least the contact region of the projection exhibits properties that allow the surface of the contact region to be substantially wetted by a fluid sample when the apparatus is in use so that the fluid sample forms a meniscus having its apex in contact with the contact region of the projection. The invention also relates to methods for using the apparatus. |
| US08961904B2 |
Microfluidic chip
A microfluidic chip orients and isolates components in a sample fluid mixture by two-step focusing, where sheath fluids compress the sample fluid mixture in a sample input channel in one direction, such that the sample fluid mixture becomes a narrower stream bounded by the sheath fluids, and by having the sheath fluids compress the sample fluid mixture in a second direction further downstream, such that the components are compressed and oriented in a selected direction to pass through an interrogation chamber in single file formation for identification and separation by various methods. The isolation mechanism utilizes external, stacked piezoelectric actuator assemblies disposed on a microfluidic chip holder, or piezoelectric actuator assemblies on-chip, so that the actuator assemblies are triggered by an electronic signal to actuate jet chambers on either side of the sample input channel, to jet selected components in the sample input channel into one of the output channels. |
| US08961903B2 |
Microfluidic device and method for fluid clotting time determination
A microfluidic passive device and a method for determining clotting time are described, of a fluid medium such as blood, of low production cost which can therefore be disposable. When optimised to determine blood clotting time, it requires a minimal whole blood sample (<5 μL) and it is particularly suited to INR or PT determination, which can be used autonomously by patient without venipuncture. Monitoring, and processing means to interpret the results are comprised in an external coagulometer device. A production method for the manufacture of the microfluidic device is also provided. |
| US08961902B2 |
Method and apparatus for analyte processing
A system for processing analytes in samples includes an instrument and a cartridge. The cartridge includes fluid inputs, input and output valve assemblies, processing devices, fluid reservoirs, and channels for carrying samples from the fluid inputs to the fluid reservoirs. The valve assemblies include valves adapted to form a sealed fluid chamber in response to force applied by a movable head assembly of the instrument. Each fluid reservoir is adapted to mate and align with an air displacement pump interface member. A valve assembly includes a recess wall surrounding a recess and a valve assembly wall surrounding both the recess and the recess wall. The recess wall and the valve assembly walls are adapted to mate with and seal against a flexible sheet covering the recess, the recess wall, and the valve assembly wall. The cartridge and instrument include complementary features for finely and coarsely aligning instrument assemblies with portions of the cartridge. |
| US08961890B2 |
Purifying apparatus using photocatalytic sheet
Provided is a purifying apparatus, which includes ultraviolet lamps and an ozone lamp having different wavelengths from one another and disposed in tubes to remove bacteria, VOC, bad odors in water or air, and these tubes are arranged in a serial or parallel way. Folds are formed at inner ends of the spiral photocatalytic sheets which are in contact with the lamps and the respective lamps are inserted into to increase the contact area with air or water and the one with the lamp, thereby preventing the lamp from being damaged. The purifying apparatus includes: an outer case having an inlet and an outlet; a spiral photocatalytic sheet to be inserted into the outer case; a UV lamp to be inserted into the spiral photocatalytic sheet, wherein folds are disposed at an inner side of the spiral photocatalytic sheet where a space for inserting the UV lamp is formed. |
| US08961888B2 |
Plasma generator
To provide a plasma generator having plasma-generating zone of increased volume.A plasma generator 110 has a cylindrical casing 11 made of a sintered ceramic produced from alumina (Al2O3) as a raw material. The casing 11 has a slit-like gas inlet 11i and a plurality of cylindrical gas outlets 11o. From the gas inlet 11i to the top of the plasma-generating zone P, the slit width (the front-to-back direction with respect to the sheet of FIG. 2.A, and the left-to right direction in FIG. 2.B) is adjusted to 1 mm, and gas outlets 11o each having an inner diameter of 1 to 2 mm are formed in straight line along the longitudinal direction of the plasma-generating zone P. The plasma-generating zone P has a square cross-section normal to the longitudinal direction having a side of 2 to 5 mm. Each of the surfaces of the electrodes 2a, 2b facing each other has a plurality of recesses (hollow portions). An elevated voltage of about 9 kV obtained from a commercial AC voltage (60 Hz, 100 V) was applied to the electrodes 2a, 2b, to thereby supply a current of 20 mA. When argon gas was supplied through the gas inlet 11i, even in the case where the electrodes 2a, 2b were separated at a spacing of 4 cm, stable linear electric discharge was observed. |
| US08961885B2 |
Device for the purification of polluted waste gas
A device for the purification of polluted waste gas by means of regenerative thermal oxidation. The device has at least two heat-accumulator towers having a common combustion chamber and each containing a heat-accumulator material, the upper ends of which face the combustion chamber. The heat-accumulator towers are each connected via a control chamber to a channel for the supply of the raw gas to be purified and a channel for the discharge of clean gas. The two channels are each connectable to the at least two heat-accumulator towers via the control chambers for an alternating supply of raw gas and discharge of clean gas via shut-off devices actuable by actuators. The two channels are arranged laterally adjacent to the heat-accumulator towers and are located adjacent each other and above the respective control chambers and interconnected with the respective control chambers through openings therebetween, with the openings being closable via shut-off devices. |
| US08961884B2 |
Electric heating catalyst
The electricity is suppressed from flowing through a case (5) of an electric heating catalyst (1). The electric heating catalyst (1) comprises a heat generating element (3) which generates heat by applying electricity; a case (5) which accommodates the heat generating element (3); an inner tube (4) which is provided between the heat generating element (3) and the case (5); and a mat (6) which is provided between the heat generating element (3) and the inner tube (4) and between the inner tube (4) and the case (5) and which insulates the electricity; wherein the inner tube (4) protrudes from the mat (6) toward an upstream side and a downstream side in a flow direction of an exhaust gas, the inner tube (4) is composed of at least two substances having different thermal conductivities, the substance (42) having the lower thermal conductivity is arranged on an inner side as compared with a surface, and the substance (41) having the higher thermal conductivity is arranged to surround the substance having the lower thermal conductivity. |
| US08961881B2 |
Multi-stage catalytic air purification system
Apparatus and methods for the production of a secure supply of breathable air are important under conditions where threats from chemical and biological weapons may be present. A method and a multi-stage CATOX system for producing a purified air flow from ambient air which may have nitrogen containing toxicants is provided. The multi-stage CATOX system has a first stage and second stage, at least one of the first or the second stage has a first catalytic heat exchanger with a cold side supporting a first catalyst and a hot side configured to transfer heat therefrom to the first catalyst. |
| US08961878B2 |
Label-free cellular manipulation and sorting via biocompatible ferrofluids
A device for separating a sample of cells suspended in a bio-compatible ferrofluid is described. The device includes a microfluidic channel having a sample inlet, at least one outlet and a length between the same inlet and the at least one outlet, wherein a sample can be added to the sample inlet and flow along the microfluidic channel length to the at least one outlet. The device includes a plurality of electrodes and a power source for applying a current to the plurality of electrodes to create a magnetic field pattern along the microfluidic channel length. The present invention also includes a method of using said device for separating at least one cell type. |
| US08961877B2 |
High-throughput, whole-animal screening system
Distinctive components that enable high-throughput, whole-animal screening are described. These components can be used individually or in various combinations. A staging chip strains off the excess fluid that the input animals are immersed in, increasing their density (number of animals in a given volume) and rapidly bringing them close to other fluidic components. A microfluidic sorter is adapted to isolate and immobilize a single, physiologically active animal in a selected geometry. A multiplexed micro-chamber chip receives single animals and the microchamber chip includes individually addressable screening chambers for imaging, incubation and exposure of individual animals to selected chemical compounds. An imaging structure generates sub-cellular, high-resolution images of the physiologically active animals. A well-plate interface chip is used to deliver elements from a compound library to a single output of the chip. |
| US08961876B2 |
Sample analyzer
A sample analyzer for analyzing a sample with a liquid in a container is disclosed. The sample analyzer comprises: a reader that reads an information of a liquid in a container, the information of the liquid being stored in a storage medium; a display; and a controller including a processor and a memory under control of the processor, the memory storing instruction causing the processor to carry out operations comprising: determining whether the sample analyzer is ready to read the information of the liquid by the reader; and causing, when the sample analyzer is determined to be ready, the display to display an indication that indicates the sample analyzer is ready to read the information of the liquid by the reader. |
| US08961873B2 |
Antinfection protecting healthcare workers to prevent spreading of communicable and nosocomial infections
The present invention describes a new system and method, named “Antinfection”, to protect primarily healthcare workers (HCWs) and patients against communicable and nosocomial infections. It's based on new antiseptic sprays, non-alcoholic, that can be sprayed automatically on the hands. The base of the antiseptic action is the persistent part, preventing the colonization of tissue and non-living surfaces with microorganisms through the targeted, on-demand release of Fluorine ions. The system including new sprayers for fast and controlled application; new technologies to secure the long-term protection against wear in the daily work routines of HCWs; new measurement techniques for the quality of the Antinfection; new quality recording concepts for the promotion and verification of new strategies and campaigns in the “lost war against the germs”. |
| US08961871B2 |
Apparatus for the sterilization of plastics material containers by means of medium-controlled electron beams
An apparatus for sterilization of an inner wall of containers has a charge carrier source for generating charge carriers, with an acceleration device by which charge carriers are capable of being accelerated in the direction of a charge carrier emission window. The charge carrier emission window is arranged on a treatment device for introduction through an opening into the container along an insertion direction, in order to act upon an inner wall of the container with the charge carriers issuing from the charge carrier emission window. A medium is flowed into the region of the charge carriers issuing out of the charge carrier emission window for changing the dimension of a charge carrier cloud formed by the discharged charge carriers. |
| US08961870B2 |
Aluminium lithographic sheet
The invention relates to an aluminum alloy lithographic sheet product having an enhanced electrolytic graining response in which Zn between 0.5 and 2.5 wt % is added to an aluminum base alloy, in particular an alloy of the 1XXX, 3XXX or 5XXX series alloys. The invention also relates to a method of producing a lithographic sheet product. |
| US08961869B2 |
Hardfacing alloy
A hardfacing alloy for use as a surfacing on metal that are subjected to high thermal and mechanical stresses. The hardfacing alloy includes at least about 7 weight percent chromium, at least about 0.02 weight percent nitrogen, metal sensitization inhibitor, and a majority weight percent iron. The hardfacing alloy includes a low percentage of ferrite. |
| US08961863B2 |
Heap leaching aeration system
An aeration system for a bed of ore that is laid upon a basal layer has a gas source located upstream for supplying gas and aeration pipes that distribute the gas downstream to the bed. Each aeration pipe has spaced-apart gas emitters that distribute gas to the bed and the aeration pipes extend through the bed towards the basal layer. |
| US08961861B2 |
Mold clamp opening/closing device
A device and method for moving a mold clamp assembly of a molding apparatus between and open and closed position when the molding apparatus is in a stationary position. The device includes a rotatable cam member. A first cam surface is provided on the rotatable cam member. The first cam surface cooperates with a cam follower of the mold clamp assembly to move the mold clamp assembly to the open position when the rotatable cam member is rotated. A second cam surface is also provided on the rotatable cam member. The second cam surface cooperates with the cam follower of the mold clamp assembly to move the mold clamp assembly from the open position to the closed position when the rotatable cam member is further rotated. |
| US08961860B2 |
Laser build up method using vibration and apparatus
A laser built up method on an object with different surfaces is provided. The object can be coated locally, which is not possible by the conventional rapid prototyping processes. The object is put into a powder bed, powder is provided on or near the object and the powder is only locally provided on the upper outer surface of the object and then densified. |
| US08961854B2 |
Urisheath with moulded unrolling strip
The urisheath provided here includes an element of thin material (a strip) that allows at least two lengths of it to run in a parallel fashion down either side of the sheath. The is obtained by injection molding the strip in liquid silicone in the silicone injection molding process for the urisheath, either by one, two or more component injection molding. The injection molding takes place in an injection molding form for a urisheath with a cavity for the body portion and a cavity for the strip portion wherein the cavity for the body portion is connected to the cavity for the strip portion creating an attachment zone between the strip and the sheath. |
| US08961850B2 |
Method of making a structured surface and article therefrom
A method of making a structured surface is disclosed. The method includes providing a thermoplastic backing with multiple rows of upstanding elements. The upstanding elements include stems with proximal ends attached to the thermoplastic backing and distal caps, and each distal cap has an overhanging portion that extends beyond the stem in a first direction. For at least some of the multiple rows, an implement is passed between two adjacent rows, wherein the implement contacts the overhanging portion of at least some of the distal caps in the two adjacent rows such that at least part of the overhanging portion is turned in a second direction, different from the first direction. A structured surface that can be prepared by the method is also provided along with a fastening laminate that includes a carrier and the structured surface and an absorbent article that includes the fastening laminate. A tool useful for carrying out the method is also provided. |
| US08961848B2 |
Methods for increasing a retention force between a polymeric scaffold and a delivery balloon
A medical device-includes a scaffold crimped to a catheter having an expansion balloon. The scaffold is crimped to the balloon by a process that includes inflating the delivery balloon during a diameter reduction to improve scaffold retention and maintaining an inflated balloon during the diameter reduction and prior and subsequent dwell periods. |
| US08961842B2 |
Device for regulating deformations of the bed of a geometrically aerodynamic mold and molding method with this device
The invention describes a regulating device that adapts to the aerodynamic profile of a mold bed made of composite material offsetting the geometrical deviations occurring in the mold bed. The device comprises some stiffening ribs (20) supported on a surface of the bed (10) of the mold and is equipped with actuators (21) that modify the curvature of the bed (10) of the mold. |
| US08961839B2 |
Production method of optical waveguide
A production method of an optical waveguide includes: preparing a laminated body that includes a first clad layer and at least a core layer laminated on the first clad layer; forming a light propagating optical waveguide core by cutting the core layer by use of a dicing saw from a side where the core layer is laminated while intruding an edge of a blade portion of the dicing saw into the first clad layer so as to partially cut the first clad layer; and embedding at least a cut portion of the laminated body with a second clad layer. |
| US08961835B2 |
Conductive metal ink composition and method for forming a conductive pattern
The present invention relates to a conductive metal ink composition which is properly applied for roll-printing process to form conductive pattern with improved conductivity, and the method of preparing a conductive pattern using the same.The conductive metal ink composition comprises a conductive metal powder; an organic silver complex where an organic ligand including amine group and hydroxyl group binds with a silver (Ag) salt of aliphatic carboxylic acid; a non-aqueous solvent comprising a first non-aqueous solvent having a vapor pressure of 3 torr or lower at 25° C. and a second non-aqueous solvent having a vapor pressure of higher than 3 torr at 25° C.; and a coatability improving polymer. |
| US08961830B2 |
Electroactive polymers containing pendant pi-interacting/binding substituents, their carbon nanotube composites, and processes to form the same
A composition of matter comprises a polymer with a fully conjugated backbone or a conjugated block with a plurality of binding groups connected to the backbone by a linking moiety. The binding groups permit a non-covalent binding to a graphitic surface such as a carbon nanotube. A composition of matter where an electroactive polymer with binding groups connected to a conjugated backbone through a linking moiety is bound to carbon nanotubes. Such compositions can be used for a variety of applications using electroactive materials. |
| US08961825B2 |
Fluorescent silica nanoparticles through silica densification
Provided herein are core-shell silica nanoparticles with a dense silica shell. The nanoparticles have improved properties such as, for example, increased photo luminescence and stability. Also provided are methods for making the nanoparticles. |
| US08961821B2 |
Gas stream treatment process
A process of treating a gas stream containing mercury and acid gas pollutants is disclosed. The process includes applying a sorbent composition into a gas stream in order to adsorb mercury containing compounds and acid gas pollutants. The sorbent composition includes a compound having the formula (SiO2)x(OH)yMzSaF.B. The combination of basic inorganic solids for the adsorption of acid gases, and metal sulfide-doped silica for the adsorption of mercury provides dual sorbent functionality, along with additional benefits for each individual sorbent: silica for moisture retention on the surface of the basic inorganic particle and adsorption of acid gas, which will improve metal sulfide performance at higher operating temperatures. The use of a hygroscopic solid effectively dries the metal sulfide-doped silica slurry without the use of filtration of drying equipment, providing significant economic benefit for the manufacture of metal sulfide-doped silica material. |
| US08961814B2 |
High-selectivity wet patterning of source-drain electrodes over TAOS for a BCE device structure
Methods and formulations for the selective etching of etch stop layers deposited above metal-based semiconductor layers used in the manufacture of TFT-based display devices are presented. The formulations are based on an alkaline solution. Methods and formulations for the selective etching of molybdenum-based and/or copper-based source/drain electrode layers deposited above metal-based semiconductor layers used in the manufacture of TFT-based display devices are presented. The formulations are based on an alkaline solution. |
| US08961812B2 |
Compositions comprising Z-1,2-difluoroethylene and uses thereof
The present invention relates to compositions for use in refrigeration, air-conditioning, and heat pump systems wherein the composition comprises Z-1,2-difluoroethylene (Z-HFO-1132a). The compositions of the present invention are useful in processes for producing cooling or heat, as heat transfer fluids, foam blowing agents, aerosol propellants, and power cycle working fluids. |
| US08961809B2 |
Electrolyte synthesis for ultracapacitors
A method of forming an electrolyte solution involves combining ammonium tetrafluoroborate and spiro-bi-pyrrolidinium bromide in a liquid solvent to form spiro-bi-pyrrolidinium tetrafluoroborate and an ammonium halide. The ammonium halide precipitate is removed from the solvent to form an electrolyte solution. The reactants can be added step-wise to the solvent, and the method can include using a stoichiometric excess of the ammonium tetrafluoroborate to form a substantially halide ion-free electrolyte solution. |
| US08961803B1 |
Protection of porous substrates before treatment
A method is provided for treating a surface of a porous material in an environment, the method comprising the steps of contacting a porous material with an organic gas in an environment having a pressure P1 and a temperature T1, wherein the organic gas is such that at the pressure P1 and at the temperature T1 it remains a gas when outside of the porous material but condenses as an organic liquid when in contact with the porous material, thereby filling pores of the porous material with the organic liquid, cooling down the filled porous material to a temperature T2 such that the organic liquid freezes within the pores, thereby sealing the pores with an organic solid, thereby providing a protected porous material, and performing a treatment on the surface. |
| US08961802B2 |
Method of forming fine pattern, and developer
A method of forming a fine pattern, including: a phase separation step in which a layer containing a block copolymer having a plurality of blocks bonded is formed on a substrate, and then the layer is heated for phase separation of the layer; a decomposition step in which at least a portion of a phase of at least one block of the plurality of blocks constituting the block copolymer is decomposed; a selective removal step in which the layer is immersed in a developing solution to selectively remove a phase containing decomposed blocks to form a nano structure; and an etching step in which the substrate is subjected to etching by using the nano structure as a mask; and a main component of the developing solution is an organic solvent having an SP value of 7.5 to 11.5 (cal/cm3)1/2, and having vapor pressure of less than 2.1 kPa at 25° C., or is benzene that may be substituted by an alkyl group, an alkoxy group, or a halogen atom, and the developing solution further contains metal alkoxide. |
| US08961800B2 |
Functional nanoparticles
Functional nanoparticles may be formed using at least one nano-lithography step. In one embodiment, sacrificial material may be patterned on a multi-layer substrate using an imprint lithography system. The pattern may be further etched into the multi-layer substrate. Functional material may then be deposited on multi-layer substrate and solidified. At least a portion of the functional material may then be removed to provide a crown surface exposing pillars. Pillars may be removed from multi-layer substrate forming functional nanoparticles. |
| US08961799B2 |
Nano-structured surface
A method of forming a nano-structured substrate is provided, the method comprising including forming non-integral nano-pillars on a substrate surface and directionally etching the substrate surface using the non-integral nano-pillars as a mask to form integral nano-structures in the substrate. |
| US08961798B2 |
Method for measuring a concentration of a compound in a liquid stream
A method and system of providing ultrapure water for semiconductor fabrication operations is provided. The water is treated by utilizing a free radical scavenging system and a free radical removal system. The free radical scavenging system can utilize actinic radiation with a free radical precursor compound, such as ammonium persulfate. The free radical removal system can comprise use of a reducing agent. The ultrapure water may be further treated by utilizing ion exchange media and degasification apparatus. A control system can be utilized to regulate addition of the precursor compound, the intensity of the actinic radiation, and addition of the reducing agent to the water. |
| US08961797B2 |
Water treatment system tank selector valve assembly
A valve assembly for a twin tank-type water treatment system includes and a tank selector valve assembly that includes first and second rotary selector valves driven in concert with another by a reversible electric motor. The motor drives the first and second selector valves between (a) a first position in which an untreated water inlet and a treated water outlet of the valve assembly are coupled to a first resin tank, and a second resin tank is connected to a regeneration valve, and (b) a second position which the untreated water inlet and the treated water outlet of the valve assembly are coupled to the second resin tank, and the first resin tank is connected to a regeneration valve. The rotary valves may be disks that rotate relatively rapidly on a common shaft driven by the electric motor through an arc of 180° or less. |
| US08961795B2 |
Apparatus and method for removing impurities in connection with liquid-liquid extraction of copper
The invention relates to an apparatus and method for removing molybdenum and other possible impurities from an organic copper-containing extraction solution in connection with the liquid-liquid extraction related to copper recovery. The removal of impurities occurs in one or several removal units built into the organic extraction solution storage tank. |
| US08961794B2 |
Metal impurity and high molecular weight components removal of biomass derived biocrude
This invention relates to a process for production of transportation fuels from biomass. More particularly, this invention relates to a process for using solvent to remove metal impurities and high molecular weight components from biomass derived biocrude to prevent potential catalyst poisoning and catalyst bed plugging in biocrude-to-transportation fuel upgrading process. |
| US08961791B2 |
Molecular exchange device
The present relates to a molecular exchange device. In particular, the present invention relates to a molecular exchange device comprising an outer tube extending from an approximal end to a distal end of the device; an inner tube defining at least one fluid passageway, the inner tube positioned concentrically within the outer tube and the area between the inner and the outer tube defining at least one fluid passageway; and a projection positioned within the area between the inner and the outer tube, wherein the projection prevents displacement of the inner tube with respect to the outer tube. |
| US08961783B2 |
Apparatus and methods for preparative liquid chromatography
A method of liquid chromatography includes providing one or more solvent reservoirs, providing a solvent pump, drawing one or more solvents into the pump in response to a pressure drop that promotes outgassing of the solvents, and dispersing outgassed bubbles into smaller bubbles to promote re-dissolution of the gas. A liquid-chromatography apparatus includes at least two solvent reservoirs, a pump, at least one bubble-dispersing unit that receives a pressurized flow of proportioned solvents from the pump, and a control unit. The control unit includes a processor and a memory that stores instructions; the control unit controls proportioning of solvents to obtain a preselected solvent composition, and pumping at flow rates to support preparative-scale or process-scale liquid chromatography. |
| US08961782B2 |
Water filtering system
Grey water is conveyed to a tank, passed through filters, and pumped to an irrigation system. A floating spray component is provided in the tank to automatically backwash the filters to prevent clogging, moving up and down as the level of water in the tank changes. The filters can be cylindrical and oriented vertically, and a removable, internal filter cartridge can mount the filters. The filters can be accessed through a top, above ground cap, and the carriage can be removed for access to other parts by removing a larger lid. |
| US08961779B2 |
Reaction system and products therefrom
A reaction system and method for removing heteroatoms from oxidized-heteroatom-containing hydrocarbon streams and products derived therefrom are disclosed. An oxidized-heteroatom-containing hydrocarbon feed is reacted in a reaction system thereby forming non-ionic hydrocarbon products. The products derived therefrom are useful as transportation fuels, lubricants, refinery intermediates, or refinery feeds. |
| US08961778B2 |
Heavy feed hydroconversion method in ebullated bed mode with feed injection at the reactor top
The invention relates to a method of hydroconverting in ebullated bed mode a petroleum feed containing a significant amount of light fractions and, among other things, asphaltenes, sulfur-containing and metallic impurities.More precisely, the object of the invention is a hydroconversion method using at least one ebullated-bed reactor for which injection of the feed is carried out at the top of said reactor, in the gas overhead, and involving separation within said feed inside the reactor into a vaporized fraction and a liquid fraction.The invention also relates to the reactor allowing said method to be implemented. |
| US08961776B2 |
Molecular metal-Oxo catalysts for generating hydrogen from water
A composition of matter suitable for the generation of hydrogen from water is described, the positively charged cation of the composition having the general formula [(PY5W2)MO]2+, wherein PY5W2 is (NC5XYZ)(NC5H4)4C2W2, M is a transition metal, and W, X, Y, and Z can be H, R, a halide, CF3, or SiR3, where R can be an alkyl or aryl group. The two accompanying counter anions, in one embodiment, can be selected from the following Cl−, I−, PF6−, and CF3SO3−. In embodiments of the invention, water, such as tap water containing electrolyte or straight sea water can be subject to an electric potential of between 1.0 V and 1.4 V relative to the standard hydrogen electrode, which at pH 7 corresponds to an overpotential of 0.6 to 1.0 V, with the result being, among other things, the generation of hydrogen with an optimal turnover frequency of ca. 1.5 million mol H2/mol catalyst per h. |
| US08961775B2 |
High productivity Kolbe reaction process for transformation of fatty acids derived from plant oil and animal fat
Oils from plants and animal fats are hydrolyzed to fatty acids for a Kolbe reaction. The invention relates to a high productivity Kolbe reaction process for electrochemically decarboxylating C4-C28 fatty acids using small amounts of acetic acid to lower anodic passivation voltage and synthesizing C6-C54 hydrocarbons. The C6-C54 undergo olefin metathesis and/or hydroisomerization reaction process to synthesize heavy fuel oil, diesel fuel, kerosene fuel, lubricant base oil, and linear alpha olefin products useful as precursors for polymers, detergents, and other fine chemicals. |
| US08961772B2 |
Method and apparatus for electroplating metal parts
A supply of metal parts are electroplated by progressively transferring the parts with a computer controlled robot into a series of open top tanks containing solutions. The tanks have submerged metal fixtures which temporarily support the parts, and each fixture in the electroplating tank is individually connected to a direct current power source through a corresponding timer switch controlled by the computer so that each part is plated for a precise time period independently of the time the part remains in the plating solution. Each fixture is coated with an insulation material and has a base with metal contact with a removable fixture member having limited metal line contact with the supporting part. A plurality of electroplating lines each include the above components, and common tanks in the lines receive an electroplating solution recirculated through a common filter and service tank where the solution is heated and controlled. |
| US08961768B2 |
Metal containing integrated electrocoat for better corrosion resistance
An aqueous electrodeposition coating composition comprising (a) a metal oxide selected from the group consisting of bismuth oxide, vanadium oxide, manganese oxide, cobalt oxide, zinc oxide, strontium oxide, yttrium oxide, molybdenum oxide, zirconium oxide, lanthanum oxide, oxides of the lanthanide series of elements, and combinations of these and (b) a cathodically electrodepositable binder, the binder comprising an amine-functional phosphorylated resin, provides corrosion protection equivalent to that obtained by the conventional phosphate pretreatment-electrodeposition coating process. |
| US08961765B2 |
Plastic microfluidic separation and detection platforms
Plastic electrophoresis separation chips are provided comprising a plurality of microfluidic channels and a detection window, where the detection window comprises a thin plastic; and the detection window comprises a detection region of each microfluidic channel. Such chips can be bonded to a support provided an aperture is provided in the support to allow detection of samples in the electrophoresis chip at the thin plastic detection window. Further, methods for electrophoretically separating and detecting a plurality of samples on the plastic electrophoresis separation chip are described. |
| US08961764B2 |
Micro fluidic optic design
A DNA analyzer includes an interface for coupling a microfluidic chip to the DNA analyzer. The microfluidic chip includes a first separation channel for electrophoretic separation of DNA fragments in a first sample. Further, the DNA analyzer includes a first optical device. The first optical device includes an illuminating path and a detecting path. The illuminating path directs a first input light beam received from a light source to a first separation channel of the microfluidic chip. The first input light beam causes fluorescent labels attached on DNA fragments in the first separation channel to emit a first fluorescence light. The detecting path collects and directs the first fluorescent light to a first plurality of optical fibers. Further, the DNA analyzer includes a spectrometer configured to receive the first fluorescent light from the plurality of optical fibers and detect fluorescent components in the first fluorescent light. |
| US08961761B2 |
Oxygen sensor control apparatus
An oxygen sensor control apparatus includes internal resistance detection means S3, controlled internal resistance obtaining means S4 to S11, and heater energization control means S12. When a timing for detecting the internal resistance R(n) comes during a lean period TL, the controlled internal resistance obtaining means uses the detected internal resistance R(n) as the controlled internal resistance Rf. When a timing for detecting the internal resistance R(n) comes during a rich period TR, the controlled internal resistance obtaining means uses, as the controlled internal resistance Rf, a value obtained by correcting the detected internal resistance R(n) on the basis of a latest lean resistance R(k) such that a variation of the internal resistance which stems from the difference between the lean state and the rich state and which is contained in the detected internal resistance R(n) is removed. |
| US08961760B2 |
Micromechanical solid-electrolyte sensor device and corresponding production method
A micromechanical solid-electrolyte sensor device includes a micromechanical carrier substrate having a front side and a back side. The micromechanical solid-electrolyte sensor device also includes a first porous electrode and a second porous electrode. The micromechanical solid-electrolyte sensor device also includes a solid-electrolyte embedded between the first porous electrode and the second porous electrode. |
| US08961755B2 |
Semiconductor wafer holder and electroplating system for plating a semiconductor wafer
A semiconductor wafer holder includes first and second holding members between which a semiconductor wafer is held. The second holding member includes a second conductive element placed in contact with a first conductive element of the first holding member and the semiconductor wafer. A ring clamp is used to press the second holding member against the first holding member for holding of the semiconductor wafer. |
| US08961750B2 |
Electrochemical modular cell for processing electrolyte solutions
The invention relates to the production of different chemical products by the electrochemical processing of electrolyte solutions of different concentrations. A cylindrical electrochemical cell for processing solutions comprises an inner, hollow, tubular anode, an outer, cylindrical cathode, and a permeable, tubular, ceramic diaphragm that is arranged between said anode and cathode and divides the interelectrode space into anode and cathode chambers so that a working section of the cell is formed. The cell comprises units for mounting, securing and sealing the electrodes and the diaphragm, which are located at the end sections of the cell, and devices for supplying and removing the processed solutions. The cathode and anode of the cell are made of titanium tubes; furthermore, the ratio of the cross-sectional area of the cathode chamber to the total cross-sectional area of the anode chamber and the diaphragm ranges from 0.9 to 1.0, and the length of the working section of the cell is 15-25 times the outside diameter of the anode. The invention makes it possible to preserve the stability of the hydrodynamic characteristics of the electrode chambers and the electric field characteristics, intensify the electrolysis process and extend the cell functionalities. |
| US08961748B2 |
Water electrolysis system
A water electrolysis system includes a water electrolysis apparatus, a low-pressure gas-liquid separator, a high-pressure gas-liquid separator, water pipe, and a decompression water supply device. The high-pressure gas-liquid separator separates the hydrogen received from a cathode of the water electrolysis apparatus and permeation water that has permeated from the anode. The water pipe connects the high-pressure gas-liquid separator and the low-pressure gas-liquid separator and is used for returning the water from the high-pressure gas-liquid separator to the low-pressure gas-liquid separator. The decompression water supply device is arranged at the water pipe and is to decompress the water discharged from the high-pressure gas-liquid separator. |
| US08961744B2 |
System and method for recycling high-boiling-point waste photoresist stripper
In a system and method for recycling a high-boiling-point waste photoresist stripper generated in processes of manufacturing LCDs or semiconductor devices, an expensive high-boiling-point stripper solvent can be easily recycled at high yield and high-purity electronic grade. This system includes a first distillation device for removing low-boiling-point impurities, a second distillation device for recycling a stripper solvent composition while removing high-boiling-point impurities, and a third distillation device for removing trace water, thus recovering the stripper solvent composition, and further includes a fourth distillation device for additionally recycling a stripper solvent, thus additionally recovering a high-boiling-point stripper solvent, and this method includes removing low-boiling-point impurities, recycling a stripper solvent composition while removing high-boiling-point impurities, and removing trace water, thus recovering the stripper solvent composition, and further includes additionally recycling a stripper solvent. |
| US08961741B2 |
Device for retaining doctor blades
A device for retaining doctor blades includes a support element and a retaining finger with a doctor blade pocket inserted between the support element and the retaining finger. The support element and the retaining finger are constructed as a single piece. |
| US08961736B2 |
Plasma reactor with internal transformer
There is provided a plasma reactor with an internal transformer. The plasma reactor comprises: a plasma chamber with a gas inlet and a gas outlet, for providing a plasma discharging space; one or more core cylinder jackets for providing a core storage space in the plasma discharging space and forming a plasma centralized channel and a plasma decentralized channel by including one or more through-apertures; and one or more transformers each including a magnetic core with primary winding surrounding the through-aperture and installed in the core storage space, wherein the plasma discharging space comprises one or more first spatial regions to form the plasma centralized channel and one or more second spatial regions to form the plasma decentralized channel. In the plasma reactor, since the transformer is installed in the plasma chamber, energy is transferred with almost no loss from the transformer to the plasma discharging space and therefore the energy transfer efficiency is very high. Then, since most of gases flow through the first spatial region and the through-aperture inside the plasma chamber, most of active gases are generated in the plasma centralized channel. Consequently, the plasma reactor is very suitable for generating large amount of active gases. Further, even though the plasma chamber is composed of a conductive material, since no special insulating region needs to be formed, it is very easy to constitute the plasma chamber. Further, since the plasma chamber itself is sufficiently capable of forming an outer case, the plasma reactor is very simply manufactured. |
| US08961731B2 |
Manufacturing method of three-dimensional display device
In a three-dimensional image display device using a liquid crystal parallax barrier panel, a liquid crystal display panel is first roughly aligned with the liquid crystal parallax barrier panel using an alignment mark. Subsequently, a white pattern for two pixels is formed in the center of a screen. When an observer's eyes are brought close to the screen, a blue pattern is generated in the center, and a white pattern is generated on both sides of the blue pattern. The relationship between a width d1 of the blue pattern and a width d2 of the white pattern is d1=2d2, and the tilt of the blue pattern is set in a predetermined range, so that necessary alignment accuracy can be secured. |
| US08961729B2 |
Method for manufacturing touch panel
A method of manufacturing a touch panel is disclosed. The method includes providing a plurality of substrates, each having a size, providing a carrier including a plurality of grooves each having a size corresponding with the size of the substrates. The method also includes placing the plurality of substrates into the grooves, simultaneously forming a touch structure layer on each of the substrates, and separating substrates from the carrier. |
| US08961728B2 |
Film attaching apparatus and film attaching method using the same
Film attaching apparatus and process for attaching the film by preparing a mother panel comprising a first panel, a second panel, and a third panel; preparing a first and a second set tables that are independently driven from each other on a moving path of the mother panel; preparing a first film that is to be attached to the first panel on the first set table; driving the first set table to attach the first film to the first panel; preparing a second film that is to be attached to the second panel on the second set table; driving the second set table to attach the second film to the second panel; preparing a third film that is to be attached to the third panel on the first set table; and driving the first set table to attach the third film to the third panel. |
| US08961726B2 |
Method for infiltrating silicone into a fiber composite structure and device for executing a method for producing a fiber composite workpiece
The invention relates to a method for producing a fiber composite workpiece. In the method according to the invention, cross-linking silicone is used with the aid of a volatile diluent for infiltrating individual mats of a mat composite. A further object of the present invention is a device for performing the method according to the invention. |
| US08961723B2 |
Method of customizing an article and apparatus including an inflatable member
A graphic transfer assembly is disclosed. The graphic transfer assembly includes an inflatable member that is capable of expanding to fill the interior of an article of footwear. The graphic transfer assembly can include a fluid pump for filling the inflatable member. |
| US08961721B2 |
Core intended to be used as a support for a roll of paper
A core intended to be used as a support for a roll of paper, especially toilet paper, is formed by winding at least one strip made of tissue, the strip being impregnated, at least locally, with starch so as to improve its stiffness. Thus configured, a core is provided having both a mechanical strength suitable for the envisaged use and a greatly improved ability to disintegrate relative to a cardboard core so as to allow it to be able to be disposed of directly in a toilet bowl without risk of blocking the soil pipe. |
| US08961718B2 |
Apparatus and method for laminating anisotropic conductive film on flat display panel
The present invention provides an apparatus and a method for laminating an anisotropic conductive film on a flat display panel. The apparatus includes: a feeding device, a cutting device, a pressing device, and a collection device. The feeding device supplies an anisotropic conductive film. The anisotropic conductive film includes a film body and a release sheet laminated on the film body. The cutting device includes an ultrasonic cutter, which is arranged under the feeding device to cut off the film body of the anisotropic conductive film passing therethrough. The pressing device is arranged at one side of the cutting device to attach the film body of the anisotropic conductive film that has been cut off and is ready to laminate to the flat display panel. The collection device is arranged at one side of the pressing device that is away from the cutting device to collect the release sheet of the anisotropic conductive film. The present invention uses an ultrasonic cutter to cut off the anisotropic conductive film in a non-contact manner so as to provide high cutting preciseness and effectively eliminate the occurrence of poor lamination of the anisotropic conductive film resulting from blunting of cutter and attaching of residual adhesive of the anisotropic conductive film to the cutter. |
| US08961706B2 |
Dishwashing machine and method for operating the same
A dishwashing machine equipped with a washing compartment and with devices for washing dishes using a washing solution also includes a sorption drying device which is connected to the washing compartment in an air-conducting manner and which comprises a sorption column containing reversibly dehydratable material, this sorption column being used for drying the dishes. To this end, the sorption drying device comprises a sensor that, during the executing of a washing program, serves to detect the state of the reversibly dehydratable material in order to influence the execution of the washing program according to the detected state. |
| US08961704B2 |
Dishwasher
A dishwasher includes a washing container having a washing chamber, a water feed line for filling the washing chamber with liquid, and a water inlet device connected on an inlet side to the water feed line and ending in the washing chamber on an outlet side. The water inlet device includes a steam outlet opening that ducts water vapor out of the washing container. The water inlet device prevents a negative-pressure-induced reversal of flow against the filling direction in the water feed line. |
| US08961701B2 |
Method and system of drying a microelectronic topography
Drying a microelectronic topography. At least some of the illustrative embodiments are methods that include placing a microelectronic topography inside a process chamber, providing a non-aqueous liquid to the process chamber until at least 90% of the volume of the process chamber contains the non-aqueous liquid, pressurizing the process chamber by way of a fluid different than the non-aqueous liquid, ceasing activity with respect to the process chamber until the non-aqueous liquid and fluid form a mixture that is substantially homogenous, venting the process chamber while simultaneously providing the fluid to the process chamber, and venting the process chamber in a manner which prevents formation of liquid in the process chamber. |
| US08961690B2 |
Tooling carrier for inline coating machine, method of operating thereof and process of coating a substrate
A process of coating at least one substrate with a plurality of deposition sources, a method of tooling, a carrier unit and a deposition system are described. The systems and methods provide for or allow for exposing a first substrate portion 112a of said at least one substrate 112 to a first deposition source 118a through an aperture 122 of a carrier unit 110, 510, depositing a first layer 126a over the first substrate portion, said first layer including material from said first deposition source, varying a relative position between said at least one substrate and said aperture for exposing a second substrate portion of said at least one substrate, or another substrate, to a second deposition source, and depositing a second layer 126b over the second substrate portion 112b, said second layer including material from said second deposition source. |
| US08961688B2 |
Method and device for plasma treating workpieces
Disclosed are a method and a device for plasma treating workpieces (5). Said workpiece is inserted into a chamber (7) of a treatment station (3), which can be at least partly evacuated, and is positioned within the treatment station by means of a holding element. In order to simultaneously supply at least two chambers with at least one operating means, a flow of the operating means is branched at least once so as to form at least two partial flows (55). |
| US08961680B2 |
Solvent formulations
The present disclosure provides, in part, a solvent composition including an an acetic acid alkyl (C1-C4) ester (e.g., methyl acetate (MA), ethyl acetate (EA), or tert-butyl acetate (TBAc)) and a carbonate ester (e.g., dimethyl carbonate, or propylene carbonate). |
| US08961677B2 |
Suspension of nanoparticles and method for making the same
A stable suspension of ethylpolysilicate nanoparticles having a size of between about 5 nm and 120 nm are in water and stabilized with between about 0.05 and 5 weight percent tetraalkylammonium hydroxide. The particles are between about 95% and 99.5% hydrolyzed and have superior removal rates when used in chemical mechanical polishing. A process for making ethylpolysilicate nanoparticles includes the step of adding reverse osmosis water and 25% tetramethylammonium hydroxide and ammonium hydroxide to a reactor, agitating the mixture and heating the mixture to about 80° C. Tetraethylalkoxy silane is added to the mixture and the mixture stirred and hydrolyzed. Ethanol is then removed. The mixture was then subjected to a vacuum to remove additional distillate. The material left in the reactor was then transferred to a plastic drum. |
| US08961672B2 |
Organosiliconate powders, method for the production thereof and use thereof for hydrophobizing mineral building materials
Solid alkali metal salts of organosilanols and/or their hydrolysis/condensation products are prepared by hydrolysis of organosilanes in water and in the presence of a basic alkali metal salt. The products contain predominately methyl and ethyl organic groups, and C4 or higher hydrocarbon groups as well. The solid salts effectively hydrophobe building materials, while being easily mixed with water. |
| US08961664B2 |
Carbon dioxide recovery device
A carbon dioxide recovery unit is provided with: an absorption tower for bringing an exhaust gas into contact with a CO2 absorbing liquid to thereby absorb and recover CO2 from the exhaust gas; a regeneration tower for taking out the CO2 from the CO2 absorbing liquid; a CO2 delivery line L3 for delivering the taken-out CO2 to a storage process; and a CO2 return line L5 for returning the taken-out CO2 to the absorption tower. When a CO2 recovery unit and a CO2 compressing device are activated, if a storage process side has some kind of trouble and cannot receive the CO2, a destination part to which the CO2 is delivered from the regeneration tower is switched from the CO2 delivery line L3 to the CO2 return line L5, whereby the CO2 gas is mixed with the exhaust gas in the absorption tower. |
| US08961662B2 |
Separator assembly
A separator assembly comprises a vertical vessel including a fluid inlet for receiving a fluid including a gas, at least two liquids, and solids, at least two liquid outlets for discharging the liquids, a gas outlet at an upper end thereof for discharging gas, and a solids outlet at a lower end thereof for discharging solids. A baffle plate extends across the vessel, and cooperates with the vessel to define an upper section and a lower section, and has a first conduit extending downwardly so that liquids and solids may flow into the lower section, and a second conduit extending upwardly so that gases may flow from the lower section to the upper section. A backpressure valve is in fluid communication with the gas outlet and is configured to discharge gas while maintaining a selected level of pressure inside the vessel. |
| US08961660B2 |
Canister arrangement structure, fuel vapor recovery device, and vehicle equipped with fuel vapor recovery device
A canister arrangement structure in a fuel vapor recovery device includes a canister that has built therein an adsorbent for adsorbing fuel and temporarily collects fuel vapor generated in a fuel tank of an internal combustion engine, the canister is arranged between an exhaust pipe of the internal combustion engine and the fuel tank. |
| US08961654B2 |
Reduction of mercury emissions from cement plants
This invention provides methods for reducing emissions of mercury from a cement plant comprising at least a kiln (6), a particulate collection device (10), collected particulates, an exhaust gas stream (8b), a heater, and a mercury scrubber, wherein the heater and mercury scrubber are upstream from the kiln. The methods comprise directing the collected particulates through the heater, to form volatilized mercury species from the collected particulates; directing the collected particulates from the heater downstream toward the kiln; and directing the volatilized mercury species to the mercury scrubber. The exhaust gas stream (8c) exits the particulate collection device and is not directed into the heater. Optional steps include injecting a mercury sorbent at one or more points between the kiln and the particulate collection device. |
| US08961653B2 |
Method and device for vacuum pressure swing adsorption with temporary storage
Adsorptive decomposition of a gas mixture is performed by vacuum pressure swing adsorption. The gas mixture is condensed to the adsorption pressure by means of at least one condenser prior to being fed into the vacuum pressure swing adsorption process. Regeneration of the adsorber(s) is carried out by means of at least one vacuum pump. The condensed gas mixture (1, 5, 6) is at least periodically and/or at least partially temporarily stored (S1) and/or fed to a consumer at those times when no gas mixture is being fed to the vacuum pressure swing adsorption process; and/or at least one of the vacuum pumps (P) that is not required for the regeneration is used at least occasionally for another application at those times when no regeneration of the adsorber or an adsorber (A, A′) is being carried out. |
| US08961649B2 |
System and method for extracting base metal values from oxide ores
A method for recovering base metal values from oxide ore is provided by the present disclosure. The ore includes a first metal selected from the group consisting at least one of iron and aluminum and a second metal selected from the group consisting of at least one of nickel, cobalt and copper. The method includes the steps of: contacting the oxide ore with hydrogen chloride gas to obtain chlorides of the first and second metals and subjecting at least the first and second metals to pyrohydrolysis at a predetermined temperature to decompose the chlorides of the first metal into oxides. The method also includes the step of mixing the oxides of the first metal and the chlorides of the second metal in an aqueous solution to dissolve the chlorides of the second metal and recovering the dissolved ions of the second metal from the aqueous solution. |
| US08961648B2 |
Integrated steel plant with production of hot or cold DRI
An integrated steelmaking plant for merging continuous operation of a reduction reactor producing hot DRI with the batch operation of a DRI melting furnace(s). The reactor produces hot DRI for a DRI melting furnace or cold DRI continuously even when the DRI production exceeds the DRI consumption rate of the furnace or suffers long-term operational delays. The reduction reactor has a DRI cooling zone therein which is selectively operable for cooling DRI when the hot DRI produced in the reactor can't all be consumed by the DRI melting furnace and when the capacity of the DRI bin feeding the melting furnace is insufficient to accumulate additional hot DRI. No separate DRI cooling vessel plus its gas compressor and gas cooling-cleaning system is needed, thus decreasing capital and operational costs. This also permits a flexible and modular construction and operation of a steelmaking plant with high or low pressure reduction reactors. |
| US08961646B2 |
Nickel alloy
There is provided a nickel alloy having an excellent creep strength as well as high-temperature oxidation resistance. The nickel alloy of the present invention comprises, by mass percent, Cr in a range of 11.5 to 11.9%, Co in a range of 25 to 29%, Mo in a range of 3.4 to 3.7%, W in a range of 1.9 to 2.1%, Ti in a range of 3.9 to 4.4%, Al in a range of 2.9 to 3.2%, C in a range of 0.02 to 0.03%, B in a range of 0.01 to 0.03%, Zr in a range of 0.04 to 0.06%, Ta in a range of 2.1 to 2.2%, Hf in a range of 0.3 to 0.4%, and Nb in a range of 0.5 to 0.8%, the balance being Ni and unavoidable impurities, and contains carbides and borides precipitating in crystal grains and at grain boundaries. |
| US08961643B2 |
Fluid filter, in particular for petrochemical plant gas
A filter for filtering fluids, in particular gas in petrochemical plants, has: a tubular cartridge which extends along a first axis, is designed to filter a fluid, and has a first and second annular end; a casing, which is connectable to a conduit of a petrochemical plant, houses the tubular cartridge, and has a first and second end support; and an axial compensating ring located between the tubular cartridge and the first or second end support. |
| US08961641B2 |
Inertial gas-liquid impactor separator with flow director
An inertial gas-liquid impactor separator includes flow director guidance structure directing and guiding flow through the housing from the inlet to the outlet along a flow path from upstream to downstream. The flow director guidance structure may include a flow controller controlling and directing flow. |
| US08961640B2 |
Filter
This filter is used for purifying air by removing foreign matters such as liquid droplets contained in the air. A separation unit is formed by a primary port, a port block to which a secondary port is formed, and a separation cylinder attached to the port block. Inside a swirl flow generating chamber of the separation unit, a cylinder blade portion formed by arranging a plurality of blades, which are extended in an axial direction along an inner peripheral surface and also inclined in a circumferential direction, in a cylindrical form is provided. The air flowed into the swirl flow generating chamber is caused to be a swirl flow by the cylindrical blade portion and foreign matters such as liquid droplets are discharged toward a collection container in a separation chamber. The purified air is guided from a discharge pipe to the secondary port. |
| US08961636B2 |
Oil separator
The present oil separator is an oil separator for capturing oil contained in blow-by gas generated in an engine, and includes a housing provided independently of a body of the engine and a gas-liquid separation unit which is provided in the housing and separates blow-by gas into a gas component and an oil component. The housing includes a lead-in port through which the blow-by gas is led in, a lead-out port through which the gas component is led out, and a drain port through which the oil component is discharged. And the housing has an attachment portion inside to which a plurality of types of the gas-liquid separation units respectively are attachable, to which attachment portion, selected one of the plurality of types of gas-liquid separation units is attached. |
| US08961635B2 |
Device for the purification of particle-laden gases
The present invention pertains to a device for cleaning gases containing particles with a bellows and with at least one filter element arranged in the bellows. To ensure effective filtration without limitation of the mobility of the bellows, the present invention provides for at least one filter element to be fixed at a bellows inner flange of a bellows corrugation in a positive-locking manner. |
| US08961631B2 |
Process for production of dispersion of fluorinated nano diamond
There is provided a process for producing a fluorinated nanodiamond dispersion liquid, including a purification step of mixing a fluorinated nanodiamond with an alcohol having a carbon number of 4 or fewer, then conducting an ultrasonic treatment to produce a suspension, and subjecting the obtained suspension to a classification treatment by centrifugation to produce a dispersion liquid of fluorinated nanodiamond; a drying step to prepare a dry fluorinated nanodiamond by removing the alcohol from the dispersion liquid of fluorinated nanodiamond that is obtained by the purification step; and a redispersion step to prepare the fluorinated nanodiamond dispersion liquid by mixing the dry fluorinated nanodiamond that is obtained by the drying step, with an aprotic polar solvent and then conducting an ultrasonic treatment. |
| US08961630B2 |
Methods of forming cutting elements by removing metal from interstitial spaces in polycrystalline diamond
Methods of forming a cutting element include immersing at least a portion of a volume of polycrystalline diamond in a liquid electrolytic solution, applying a voltage between the polycrystalline diamond and a cathode in contact with the liquid electrolytic solution, and removing at least a portion of metal catalyst from interstitial spaces between adjacent diamond grains. The polycrystalline diamond includes interbonded diamond grains and metal catalyst particles in the interstitial spaces between adjacent grains of polycrystalline diamond material. Some methods include forming a barrier over a portion of a volume of polycrystalline diamond and transferring at least a portion of the metal catalyst from a portion of the polycrystalline diamond not covered by the barrier to a liquid electrolyte. Some methods include encapsulating a volume of polycrystalline diamond in a barrier and selectively removing a portion of the barrier from a first portion of the volume of polycrystalline diamond. |
| US08961628B2 |
Pretreatment of biomass using steam explosion methods
An integrated plant that includes a steam explosion process unit and biomass gasifier to generate syngas from biomass. A steam explosion process unit applies a combination of heat, pressure, and moisture to the biomass to make the biomass into a moist fine particle form. The steam explosion process unit applies steam with a high pressure to heat and pressurize any gases and fluids present inside the biomass to internally blow apart the bulk structure of the biomass via a rapid depressurization of the biomass with the increased moisture content. Those produced moist fine particles of biomass are subsequently fed to a feed section of the biomass gasifier, which reacts the biomass particles in a rapid biomass gasification reaction to produce syngas components. |
| US08961625B2 |
Catalytic microchannel reformer
An apparatus and method for enhancing the yield and purity of hydrogen when reforming hydrocarbons is disclosed in one embodiment of the invention as including receiving a hydrocarbon feedstock fuel (e.g., methane, vaporized methanol, natural gas, vaporized diesel, etc.) and steam at a reaction zone and reacting the hydrocarbon feedstock fuel and steam in the presence of a catalyst to produce hydrogen gas. The hydrogen gas is selectively removed from the reaction zone while the reaction is occurring by selectively diffusing the hydrogen gas through a porous ceramic membrane. The selective removal of hydrogen changes the equilibrium of the reaction and increases the amount of hydrogen that is extracted from the hydrocarbon feedstock fuel. |
| US08961622B2 |
Additives for improving the cold properties of fuel oils
The invention thus provides terpolymers of ethylene, at least one ethylenically unsaturated ester and propene, which have i) from 4.0 to 12.0 mol % of structural units derived from at least one ethylenically unsaturated ester having a C4- to C20-alkyl radical, ii) from 0.5 to 4.0 methyl groups derived from propene per 100 aliphatic carbon atoms, and iii) fewer than 8.0 methyl groups stemming from chain ends per 100 CH2 groups. |
| US08961616B2 |
Medical implant
A medical implant is disclosed, said implant having a flexible hollow body (1) which can be implanted inside the stomach (8) of a patient and which has a first tube-like end section (2) and a second tube-like end section (3), wherein the first tube-like end section (2) is dimensioned such that it can be fitted into the esophagus (7) of the patient, and the second tube-like end section (3) is dimensioned such that it can be connected to the small intestine loop (9) of the patent in a sealing manner. |
| US08961615B2 |
Bone prosthesis for maintaining joint operation in complex joints
A prosthesis for reconstructing a multibone joint such as a wrist. A patient's scaphoid is removed to create a void. The scaphoid has a plurality of adjacent bones, each of the adjacent bones comprising a surface generally facing the void. The surface of at least two of the adjacent bones is prepared by affixing a magnetic element thereto and a magnetic scaphoid implant is inserted into the void. A magnetic relationship exists between the magnetic elements and the magnetic scaphoid implant. |
| US08961614B2 |
Articular surface implant and delivery system
A method is provided for delivering an implant for replacing a portion of an articular surface. The method may include forming a socket in an articulating feature that is capable of moving relative to the articular surface. An implant may be placed in the socket and the articulating feature may be moved relative to the articular surface to generally align the socket with an implant site formed in the articular surface. The implant may be transferred from the socket into the implant site. |
| US08961611B2 |
Modular glenoid prosthesis
A method for assembling a glenoid assembly. The method includes using a base having a first side and an opposing second side. The first side includes a plurality of connection features arranged in an array. The method further includes using a plurality of glenoid attachment members, wherein each of the plurality of glenoid attachment members has a locking mechanism. One of the plurality of glenoid attachment members is selected and is connected to the base by connecting the locking mechanism of the selected one of the plurality of glenoid attachment members to one of the plurality of connection features of the base. |
| US08961609B2 |
Devices for distracting tissue layers of the human spine
The present invention relates to methods of separating, supporting or both separating and supporting layers of tissue in the human spine. Such methods generally comprise inserting at least one member between layers of tissue in the human spine and changing the configuration of the member to define a support structure between the tissue layers. |
| US08961607B2 |
Combined spinal interbody and plate assemblies
A spinal implant assembly combines a spinal interbody spacer with a spine plate. The combined spacer and plate assembly provides stabilization and torsional resistance to promote fusion of adjacent vertebrae. The spacer is configured for placement within an intervertebral space between the adjacent vertebrae previously occupied by a spinal disc. The plate is configured for attachment to anterior sides of the adjacent vertebrae. Translation of the spinal plate allows it to be affixed to the vertebrae in various positions and/or allow movement post installation. In one form, the plate is defined by first and second spine plate or plate portions that are coupled to one another to allow rotation about each other. Ends of the first and second spine plates are received in/by the interbody spacer, while a pin extends through the interbody spacer to fix the first and second spine plates to the interbody spacer. |
| US08961606B2 |
Multi-piece intervertebral implants
Intervertebral implants for implanting into an intervertebral space are provided. The implants can comprise one or more layers that are operably attached to one another. An implant can comprise a first layer having a first mating surface that mates with a second mating surface of a second layer. The first mating surface and the second mating surface can have features that allow them to complement each other. The implants can include one or more bore holes for receiving a fixation member. The bore holes can be horizontal, vertical or diagonal. In some cases, the bore holes will be blind bore holes. |
| US08961602B2 |
Adjustment suture markers for adjustable annuloplasty ring
An adjustable annuloplasty ring includes a body in the form of an endless loop having an internal lumen therethrough, an adjustment suture extending through at least a portion of the internal lumen, a first portion of the suture exiting the lumen through a first opening in the body and a second portion of the suture exiting the lumen through a second opening in the body, and a first adjustment marker on the first portion of the suture outside of the body. The suture may be adapted to reduce the length of the body around the loop when tightened. |
| US08961598B2 |
Set of annuloplasty devices with varying anterior-posterior ratios and related methods
Described is a set of at least two annuloplasty devices having a particular size that corresponds to an inter-trigonal or inter-commissural distance of a heart valve annulus, wherein the at least two annuloplasty devices have different anterior-posterior ratios. Also, described is a kit for annuloplasty repair of a heart valve annulus including a plurality of annuloplasty devices each comprising one of a plurality of different sizes, wherein the different sizes each correspond to a different inter-trigonal or inter-commissural distance of a heart valve annulus, and for each of the plurality of different sizes there are at least two devices each having the same size but having different anterior-posterior ratios. Additionally, a method of choosing an annuloplasty device for implantation in a valve annulus is described. |
| US08961594B2 |
Heart valve repair system
Techniques are described for use with one or more sutures. For some applications, techniques are described for fixedly-coupling two or more sutures to each other. For some applications, such techniques are used for treating a heart valve of a subject. Techniques are also described for treating a heart valve of a subject by coupling leaflets of the heart valve to a support using tissue-piercing elements. Other embodiments are also described. |
| US08961591B2 |
Polymeric, degradable drug-eluting stents and coatings
Absorbable stents and absorbable stent coatings have been developed with improved properties. These devices preferably comprise biocompatible copolymers or homopolymers of 4-hydroxybutyrate, and optionally poly-L-lactic acid and other absorbable polymers and additives. Compositions of these materials can be used to make absorbable stents that provide advantageous radial strengths, resistance to recoil and creep, can be plastically expanded on a balloon catheter, and can be deployed rapidly in vivo. Stent coatings derived from these materials provide biocompatible, uniform coatings that are ductile, and can be expanded without the coating cracking and/or delarmnating and can be used as a coating matrix for drug incorporation. |
| US08961590B2 |
Flexible helical stent having different helical regions
The present invention relates to tubular stents that are implanted within a body lumen. The stent has a cylindrical shape defining a longitudinal axis and includes a proximal helical section, a distal helical section and an intermediate ring section there between. Each of the proximal and distal helical sections has of a plurality of longitudinally oriented strut members and a plurality of circumferentially oriented hinge members connecting circumferentially adjacent strut members to form a band, the band being wrapped about the longitudinal axis in a substantially helical manner to form a plurality of helical windings, wherein the distal helical section is wound about the longitudinal axis in the opposite direction from the proximal helical section. The intermediate ring section includes a plurality of longitudinally oriented strut members and a plurality of circumferentially oriented hinge members connecting circumferentially adjacent strut members to form an endless ring. |
| US08961589B2 |
Bioabsorbable coating with tunable hydrophobicity
The present invention relates to implantable medical devices coated with polymer having tunable hydrophobicity and their use in the treatment of vascular diseases. |
| US08961588B2 |
Method of coating a stent with a release polymer for 40-O-(2-hydroxy)ethyl-rapamycin
A method of coating a stent is presented such that less than 50% of the total amount of 40-O-(2-hydroxyl)ethyl-rapamycin, or an analog or derivative thereof, is released in vivo in a 24 hour period, wherein the method comprises exposing the coating to sufficient temperature to modify the structure of the polymer. |
| US08961586B2 |
Bifurcated stent assemblies
Disclosed is a stent assembly for expanding in vivo vessels, the assembly comprising first and second radially expandable mesh stents, wherein the first stent is separated by a predetermined distance from the second stent and a stent jacket spans the predetermined distance such that a first end of the jacket is operatively associated with the first stent and a second end of the jacket is operatively associated with the second stent. |
| US08961585B2 |
Controlled fracture connections for stents
The invention provides for intra-luminal stents, especially stent having controlled fracture connection, as well as, methods of making and using the same. In one embodiment, a stent for implantation into a vessel has a plurality of annular segments collectively forming tubular shape, characterized by at least first and second adjacent annular segments each defined by a plurality of struts and at least one joint interconnecting respective struts of the first and second segments on a non-permanent basis. |
| US08961581B2 |
Delivery system having stent retention structure
A drainage stent delivery system including an elongate shaft of a medical device, a drainage catheter or stent, and an engagement member, such as a distensible member or a compressible member, for selectively coupling the stent to the elongate shaft. The engagement member is positioned between the inner surface of the stent and the outer surface of the elongate shaft and is elongatable from a first length to a second length by longitudinal movement generally parallel to the central longitudinal axis of the stent to release the stent. At the first length, the engagement member is engaged with the inner surface of the stent to secure the stent on the elongate shaft, and at the second length the engagement member is sufficiently disengaged from the inner surface of the stent to release the stent from the elongate shaft such that the elongate shaft may be withdrawn from the stent. |
| US08961578B2 |
Dermatological treatment device with one or more vertical cavity surface emitting lasers (VCSEL)
A device for providing laser-based dermatological treatments may include a device body having an application end, a VCSEL laser supported in the device body and including multiple emitter zones, each emitter zone comprising one or more micro-emitters, each micro-emitter configured to emit a micro-beam, wherein at least two of the multiple emitter zones are configured such that the micro-beam emitted by the micro-emitters of the at least two emitter zones form a combined beam through the application end of the device to provide a treatment spot on the skin, and electronics coupled to the at least two emitter zones and configured to control the at least two emitter zones independently. |
| US08961577B2 |
Correction of female urinary incontinence and skin reduction
The invention relates to devices and compositions useful for and methods of female genital skin reduction, improvement of skin tone and treatment of female urinary incontinence, as well as the treatment or improvement of other clinical conditions, including but not limited to those involving the female genitalia. |
| US08961576B2 |
Internal joint bracing system and suture anchoring assembly therefore
An internal bracing system is disclosed for stabilizing a joint such as the knee, shoulder, ankle or the like. The internal bracing system includes an extra-articular tension band mechanism and an anchor assembly therefore. The internal bracing system adds substantial control to unstable joints which is effective in limiting the pathological joint motions and internal slippage. The anchor anchoring assembly designed to affix a tethering device to various bony structures which form a joint, for the purpose of providing stability. The anchor assembly includes an anchor and a set screw. A double helix thread/chamber structure between the anchor and set screw securely holds the tether without binding. |
| US08961570B2 |
Spinal correction system and method
A fusionless correction system comprises a longitudinal element extending between a first end and second end. At least one fixation element is disposed with the longitudinal element and is configured for disposal in bone. A lock is disposed with the at least one fixation element and includes at least one bone penetrating projection. The lock is movable relative to the at least one fixation element between a first non-engaging configuration and a second engaging configuration such that the at least one bone penetrating projection extends beyond an outer surface of the at least one fixation element. Methods of use are disclosed. |
| US08961569B2 |
Locking pedicle screw devices, methods, and systems
An embodiment of the invention provides for a pedicle screw system including a bone anchor, linkage rod, tulip, set screw, and detent plate. When the set screw is fully tightened against the detent plate, pluralities of ridges on opposing faces of the detent plate and set screw cooperate by providing catches to prevent unwanted loosening of the set screw, which could lead to unwanted rod slippage and instability in the orthopedic fixation unit. |
| US08961567B2 |
Non-fusion scoliosis expandable spinal rod
A growing rod for mounting between attachment mechanisms that are secured to anatomical structures of a patient having scoliosis. The growing rod includes an outer housing and an inner housing disposed within the outer housing. The inner housing includes a magnet assembly including a magnet having a first pole and a second pole and a gear reduction mechanism coupled to the magnet. A first rod is secured to the inner housing and a second rod is secured to the outer housing. The gear reduction mechanism reduces an output rotation of the magnet to rotate a driver that operates to move the inner housing along a longitudinal axis with respect to the outer housing. |
| US08961561B2 |
Surgical system including suture anchor and insertion device and method for using
An improved suture anchor has one or more channels formed into the exterior surface of the anchor body. The channels may be used to inject a compound, such as filler material or an adhesive, into the implant site. Preferably, the channels connect to a retainer in the anchor body for a suture to pass through, preventing the suture from being compressed and allowing removal and adjustment of a suture retained by the anchor after the anchor is installed in a bone. The retainer is preferably a slot formed into the distal end of the anchor body. In a method of securing tissue to bone, an insertion tool is used to insert the suture into the anchor and install the anchor into an implant site in the bone. If the suture later fails, the channels may be used to fill the implant site with bone cement for redrilling. Preferably, the suture anchor is made of human cortical bone or a similarly bioabsorbable and osteoconductive material. |
| US08961560B2 |
Bidirectional self-retaining sutures with laser-marked and/or non-laser marked indicia and methods
A marked heterofunctional suture thread has two or more sections having different features. One or more sections of the suture thread are provided with laser-marked and non-laser marked indicia in order that they may be identified and differentiated from other sections. The suture thread may have retainers on the surface of one or more sections such that the suture thread can engage and retain tissue without knots. The markers may be used to indicate fixed features of a section of suture thread such as the presence and/orientation of retainers. In particular embodiments, laser-marked and non-laser marked indicia are used to identify the transition section of a bidirectional self-retaining suture. |
| US08961553B2 |
Material control device for inserting material into a targeted anatomical region
An extractable device is used to insert a flowable material into a vertebral body. The device comprises a filling member and a flowable material. The filling member is made of a flexible wall which includes a holding portion and an injection port via which the flowable material is injected into the holding portion after insertion into the vertebral body. The holding portion is provided with an opening which is releasably closed by a closure device so as to make the opening substantially resistant to the passage of material there through. Once the flowable material in the holding portion increases in viscosity, the closure device is released, thereby enabling the filling member to be extracted from the vertebral body so as to leave only the material in the vertebral body. The flowable material should be a material capable of setting to a hardened condition. |
| US08961549B2 |
Retrograde entry antegrade placement for femoral artery access
A Retrograde Entry Antegrade Placement (REAP) method and apparatus facilitate the antegrade (i.e., in the direction of blood flow) placement of endovascular devices for treatment of lower extremity arterial disease. Initially, a retrograde entry is made into the arterial system of a patient at an entry point with a curved needle, which then exits at an exit point proximal to the entry point, with a first wire then passed through the lumen of the curved needle. From the skin exit point, a Dual-Lumen Access Director (DAD) device is advanced in the antegrade direction down the first wire in a first lumen and enters the CFA 1 lumen. A second wire is passed down a second lumen in the DAD device and follows the SFA lumen in the antegrade direction. The DAD device is removed, and a standard dilator sheath is inserted over the second wire and the endovascular treatment begins. |
| US08961547B2 |
Ultrasonic surgical instruments with moving cutting implement
In various embodiments, a surgical instrument for operation in an aqueous environment is provided. In at least one embodiment, the surgical instrument may include a hollow sheath and a blade disposed at least partially within the sheath. Coupled to the blade may be at least one ultrasonic transducer, which, in turn, may be coupled to a drive system. The drive system may be configured to deliver gross axial motions to the blade such that the blade translates with respect to the hollow sheath when the drive system is activated. Accordingly, tissue may be cut by the blade with gross axial movement of the blade and/or ultrasonic vibrational motion provided by the ultrasonic transducer(s). In alternative embodiments, the blade may be rotated axially instead of translated with respect to the hollow sheath. |
| US08961545B2 |
Soft tissue anchoring methods and devices
Novel devices (120) and methods for soft tissue anchoring and securement are disclosed, such devices and methods offering the advantage of enabling secured tissue to withstand significant forces after such securement is complete. The novel tissue anchoring elements (28) include a force-distributing device that has a large surface area relative to conventional tissue securement devices such as sutures and staples. The force-distributing device (28) may be implanted to a controlled depth into the tissue mass by forming a pocket in a tissue mass and inserting the device, or by slowly driving the device into tissue means of an erosion mechanism such as local pressure necrosis (56). The erosion process may be driven by a force-producing element that may also include a tissue-grasping element (144). |
| US08961544B2 |
Dry composition wound dressings and adhesives comprising gelatin and transglutaminase in a cross-linked matrix
Patches comprising dry gelatin compositions. |
| US08961543B2 |
Tissue ligation devices and methods
Devices and methods for ligating structures where the loop of the ligation element can be temporarily pre-tightened without locking the loop. This pre-tightening without locking allows the loop of the ligation element to be loosened and repositioned, if necessary, before locking the loop around the anatomical structure. |
| US08961542B2 |
Articulating clip applier cartridge
An end effector is provided and includes a distal housing portion and a proximal housing portion interconnected to one another by a knuckle portion, wherein the knuckle portion permits rotation of the distal housing portion relative thereto and articulation of the distal housing portion relative to the proximal housing portion; a jaw assembly supported in the distal end of the distal housing portion, the jaw assembly including a first jaw and a second jaw movable between a spaced apart and an approximated position; and a plurality of fasteners loaded within the distal housing portion, each of the plurality of fasteners defining a fastener axis extending in a direction substantially parallel to a pair of legs thereof, each of the plurality of fasteners being arranged within the base portion such that the fastener axis is disposed at an angle with respect to a longitudinal axis of the distal housing portion. |
| US08961541B2 |
Vascular closure devices, systems, and methods of use
A tissue closure system can include a deployment instrument and a sealing element. The deployment instrument can be slidably mounted to and guided by a tubular medical device. The deployment instrument can be advanced over the tubular medical device to the desired location. The sealing element can then be advanced off of the end of the tool. The sealing element can include tissue engaging elements that are configured to automatically close upon deployment to bring together tissue. A slidably attached guided skin (or other tissue) cutter can also be used if desired to facilitate entry of the deployment instrument. |
| US08961539B2 |
Endoscopic implant system and method
A system, device, device and method for implanting a food restrictor in a patient's stomach, by coupling the restrictor to a plurality of tissue-plication anchors already placed in the stomach, are disclosed. The device includes an elongate shaft assembly for accessing the stomach transorally, and on which the restrictor can be carried, and a plurality of cable members mounted on the shaft assembly. The cable members are disposed on the shaft assembly along a distal section thereof, and releasably attached to the shaft assembly's distal end. After a cable member engages a tissue-plication anchor, retracting the cable is operable to first release the member from a holder at the distal end of the shaft assembly, then pull a portion of the anchor through an aperture in the restrictor. This process is repeated for each anchor in the stomach for attaching the restrictor to the stomach. |
| US08961537B2 |
Surgical robot with hybrid passive/active control
A surgical robot with seven degrees of freedom, including various types of joints, offers a hybrid active-passive control for operation both manually and by programmed navigation. One of the degrees of freedom allows the robot to be moved efficiently around the axis of a patient's body to provide ample workspace for surgical procedures in an operating room. |
| US08961535B2 |
Method and apparatus for securing a guide tube
A guide tube is used for guiding an instrument through a hole within tissue of a patient. The guide tube includes a cannula member defining a passage extending therethrough along an axis. The passage is operable to receive the instrument and guide the instrument through the hole within the tissue of the patient. The guide tube also includes an expansion member that is moveably coupled to the cannula member to selectively move radially between a retracted position and an expanded position relative to the axis of the cannula member. The expansion member is at least partially insertable into the hole when the expansion member is in the retracted position. The expansion member is operable to engage with a surface of the hole when the expansion member is in the expanded position. |
| US08961532B2 |
Atraumatic catheter tip
A delivery system for delivering an occluding device to a body lumen comprises an elongated shaft having a proximal end and a distal end, a delivery means for delivering the occluding device to a desired location within the body lumen, and a flexible atraumatic tip on the distal end of the elongated shaft. The distal end of the elongated shaft is insertable into the body lumen. The atraumatic tip is configured to guide the elongated shaft through the body lumen while avoiding perforation of the body lumen. |
| US08961530B2 |
Implantation system for tissue repair
A prosthesis delivery and implantation system for tissue repair is disclosed. The implantation system includes provisions for manually applying a prosthesis to a treatment area. This system may be applied to heal any imperfections in various different types of tissue. The system also provides provisions for independently inserting two end portions of the prosthesis into tissue. |
| US08961529B2 |
Marking template for installing a custom replacement device for resurfacing a femur and associated installation method
A replacement device for resurfacing a joint surface of a femur and a method of making and installing such a device is provided. The custom replacement device is designed to substantially fit the trochlear groove surface, of an individual femur, thereby creating a “customized” replacement device for that individual femur and maintaining the original kinematics of the joint. The top surface is designed so as to maintain centrally directed tracking of the patella perpendicular to the plane established by the distal end of the femoral condyles and aligned with the center of the femoral head. |
| US08961528B2 |
Offset cup impactor with a grasping plate for double mobility implants
An orthopaedic prosthetic inserter used for the implantation of double mobility cup implants is described. The inserter consists of a drive train, a C-shaped housing, and a prosthetic cup engaging subassembly. The subassembly comprises an impaction plate, a grasping plate and a domed nose. When activated by the drive train, a plurality of hook ends extending from the grasping plate latch onto the cup of the prosthetic to hold and manipulate the prosthetic cup during implantation. |
| US08961525B2 |
Inflatable bone tamp with predetermined extensibility
An inflatable bone tamp for performing a minimally invasive surgical procedure includes an inner shaft that incorporates a longitudinally extensible section. The predetermined longitudinally extensible section permits greater control over the elongation of the inflatable portion of the inflatable bone tamp, thereby allowing performance characteristics to be tailored to specific procedures and/or situations. The predetermined longitudinally extensible section can be implemented in various ways, such as a spring, elastomer, or mechanical linkage, among others. |
| US08961524B2 |
Instruments and methods for stabilization of bony structures
The present invention relates to methods and instruments for placing a brace or connecting element into an animal subject for engagement with anchors secured in the animal subject. The installation instrument includes anchor extensions coupled to the anchors. The instrument is movable with respect to the anchors to position the connecting element in a position more proximate the anchors. |
| US08961520B2 |
Medical cutting tool quality control systems and methods
A cutting tool includes a cutting surface on a first side and an attachment member on a second side. The attachment member is configured to be coupled to a powered driving member. The cutting tool includes a limiting device configured to restrict the use of the cutting tool to a predetermined number of uses. The limiting device can be configured to restrict the number of uses of the cutting tool by restricting the number of times that the attachment member can be coupled to the powered driving member. |
| US08961518B2 |
Apparatus and methods for bone access and cavity preparation
Apparatus and methods for preparing the interior of a bone for therapy. The therapy may include therapy for a bone fracture. The apparatus and methods may involve orienting a surgical instrument for proper deployment in the interior of the bone. An instrument guide may be positioned and retained against translation along, and rotation about one or more of three substantially orthogonal axes. Apparatus placed exterior to the bone may register the guide to a region inside the bone that is designated for preparation or treatment. One or more broaching members may be used to prepare the region for treatment. A broaching member may be expandable inside the bone. A broaching member may be flexible such that it broaches bone having a relatively lower density and it leaves bone having a relatively higher density substantially intact. |
| US08961515B2 |
Electrosurgical instrument
An electrosurgical forceps is provided with a shaft that extends from a housing of the electrosurgical forceps. An end effector assembly operably coupled to a distal end of the shaft includes a pair of first and second jaw members each having jaw housing and an electrosurgical seal plate. One or both of the first and second jaw members is movable from an open configuration, to a clamping configuration. The moveable jaw member includes an elongated channel defined in its respective jaw housing and extends along a length thereof. A drive assembly operably couples to the moveable jaw member via a drive rod that is engageable with the elongated channel to move the movable jaw member from the open configuration to the clamping configuration and to provide a closure force between the first and second jaw members when the jaw members are in the clamping configuration. |
| US08961514B2 |
Articulating surgical apparatus
An endoscopic forceps is provided. The endoscopic forceps includes a housing having a shaft that extends therefrom that defines a longitudinal axis therethrough. The shaft has a first tube with a bent portion having a contour. A second tube is disposed within the first tube. An end effector assembly operatively connected to a distal end of the first tube has a pair of first and second jaw members. The first and second jaw members including respective cam slots defined therein with a cam pin movable therein. The shaft is translatable along the longitudinal axis to straighten the bent portion of the first tube to move the bent portion of the first tube from an articulated configuration to a non-articulated configuration. The second tube is translatable along the longitudinal axis to move the first and second jaw members from the open configuration to the clamping configuration. |
| US08961513B2 |
Surgical tissue sealer
A surgical instrument is provided. The surgical instrument includes an end effector assembly including first and second jaw members moveable relative to one another between a first, spaced-apart position and a second position proximate tissue, wherein, in the second position, the jaw members cooperate to define a cavity that is configured to receive tissue between the jaw members and a resilient electrically conductive sealing surface operably coupled to at least one jaw member, the resilient electrically conductive sealing surface selectively positionable from a first unflexed position to a second flexed position. |
| US08961510B2 |
Endoscopic nasal palatoplasty
The endoscopic nasal palatoplasty procedure provides a reduction in the posterior aspect of the soft palate and/or uvula, thereby increasing the area of the nasopharyngeal passage between the soft palate and/or uvula and the back of the nasopharynx. This increased nasopharyngeal area promotes nasal breathing, thereby reducing reliance upon oral breathing and corresponding sleep-disordered breathing syndrome and associated problems such as sleep apnea and snoring. The procedure is performed using a conventional surgical implement, such as a Coblator® or other electro cauterizing or laser cauterizing implement, to ablate and cauterize a series of lesions in the soft palate and/or uvula. The procedure is performed by inserting the surgical implement through one of the nasal passages to access the superior surface of the soft palate and/or uvula. |
| US08961505B2 |
Electrosurgery detection
A device includes a plurality of electrodes and a detection module. The plurality of electrodes are configured to acquire an electrical signal in a patient. The detection module is configured to determine whether the acquired electrical signal includes signal content in each of N different frequency bands and detect operation of an electrosurgical device on the patient based on how many of the N different frequency bands include signal content. N is an integer that is greater than 1. |
| US08961504B2 |
Optical hydrology arrays and system and method for monitoring water displacement during treatment of patient tissue
A system that monitors water displacement in tissue during patient therapy includes a generator supplying electrosurgical energy to tissue, a spectrometer operably coupled to the generator, and a processor communicating with the generator and with the spectrometer having a light source for exposing tissue to light and a light sensor. The light sensor is configured to sense changes in light through tissue in response to tissue treatment and communicate the changes to the processor to determine tissue hydration levels and motility. A plurality of optical fibers may be configured in an array to communicate light between the generator and tissue. An optical temperature monitor may communicate with the processor and be coupled to an optical fiber. The optical fibers may have an optic fiber distance between adjacent optical fibers. The system may be incorporated within an electrosurgical pencil or a forceps. A corresponding method of detecting hydration is also disclosed. |
| US08961497B2 |
Portable vacuum generation device, and medical suction device using same
Provided is a portable vacuum generator that can effectively save battery power of a vacuum pump for absorbing exudates from a suction head that is connected to a tube, and a medical suction device using the same. The medical suction device includes: a connection tube whose one end is connected to a connector of the suction head; and a vacuum generator including a vacuum pump that is connected to the other end of the connection tube and having a motor for generating negative pressure, and a vacuum pump controller that controls a power supply for the vacuum pump so as to maintain a vacuum state, in which the vacuum pump controller blocks the power supply for the vacuum pump until pressure of the vacuum pump falls down to preset minimum pressure in the case that the current pressure that is applied to the vacuum pump reaches preset maximum pressure, and drives the vacuum pump until pressure of the vacuum pump reaches the preset maximum pressure in the case that the current pressure falls down to the preset minimum pressure. |
| US08961491B2 |
Catheters and related equipment
A device for inserting a catheter into a blood vessel that uses fluid flow to aid the insertion of the catheter into a patient is described herein. The device includes a catheter retention device that houses a catheter and is configured to attach to an angiocatheter or other blood vessel access device. The catheter retention device receives fluid and guides the catheter into the blood vessel using the flow of fluid to carry the catheter into the blood vessel. |
| US08961489B2 |
Blood plasma storage bottle with locking cap
A container for storing donated blood plasma has a neck and an attachable locking cap. The cap may be rotatably attached to the neck. The cap and the neck are configured to lock the cap in at least one, and preferably two, rotational positions. In one position, tubes connected to the container are accessible. After the plasma has been collected and the tubes have been cut off and sealed, in the other position, the tube stubs are protected by the cap. The bottle and the cap may define structures that facilitate storing and protecting tubing wrapped longitudinally around the container, until the container is used to collect and store plasma. |
| US08961487B2 |
Elastic composite having cross-directional elasticity and a system and method for making the elastic composite
A method of making an elastic composite is described that entails conveying a first sheet of material on a conveyor, and wrapping a section of elastic about the first sheet and the conveyor, thereby applying elastics cross directionally across the first sheets. A second sheet of material is applied onto the first sheet having elastics applied thereon, thereby creating a subcomposite including the first sheet, the second sheet, and elastics sandwiched therebetween, wherein a plurality of elastics extend outward from the one side of the subcomposite, about the conveyor, and return into an opposite side of the subcomposite. The sub-composite is cut through the first and second sheets and the elastics, thereby separating the sub-composite into a first carrier and a second carrier, each carrier including a first material layer and a second material layer, whereby a plurality of spaced apart elastic elements extend from the first carrier to the second carrier, the first and second carriers defining an exposed elastic region therebetween formed by the plurality of spaced apart elastic elements. |
| US08961485B2 |
Method and equipment for fastening a thread to a tampon
A method for fastening a thread (24) to a tampon (10), in particular a veterinary tampon, comprising the steps of passing the thread through the tampon by means of a needle (12, 14), and knotting the loose ends of the thread, wherein that the step of passing the thread through the tampon comprises: -piercing the tampon (10) with two hollow needles (12, 14), -inserting the distal ends of the needles into a mould (20) that forms a passage (16) interconnecting the open ends of the hollow needles, feeding the thread (24) to the proximal end of one (12) of the two needles, -applying a suction pressure to the proximal end of the other (14) of the two needles, -opening the mould (20), and -withdrawing the needles (12, 14) from the tampon (10). |
| US08961484B1 |
Double gusset cloth diaper along with method for making the same
A double gusset cloth diaper including an inner surface and an outer surface forming an hourglass shape, having a groin area proximate a center line of the reusable diaper and defining at least one recess therebetween. A fluid absorbent material is removably located in the recess through the opening. A first gusset is attached to the reusable diaper to form a first seal between the inner surface and the legs of the user. A second gusset is attached to the reusable diaper proximate the first gusset. The gussets are formed of an elastic material attached to the wrong side of the inner surface in a channel formed by stitching the inner surface to form channels. |
| US08961481B2 |
Devices and methods for treatment of damaged tissue
Methods and devices for treatment of damaged tissue are disclosed, including treatment of wounds by employing non-electrically powered, reduced pressure therapy devices. Maintenance and control of the sub atmospheric pressure exerted may be provided by such devices while minimizing discomfort to the user. The devices may be configured to be worn inconspicuously underneath clothing. |
| US08961474B2 |
Syringe
A syringe is disclosed. The syringe may include a syringe body with a fluid chamber, the syringe body having a distal end and a proximal end, with an extrusion opening at the proximal end; a dividing wall disposed within the fluid chamber, defining a first fluid chamber and a second fluid chamber, the first fluid chamber and the second fluid chamber in communication with the extrusion opening; a first plunger disposed in a distal end of the first chamber, the first plunger including a first locking mechanism configured to prevent the first plunger from sliding away from the proximal end of the syringe body, when the first plunger is in a first initial position and the second plunger is being depressed; and a second plunger disposed in a distal end of the second chamber, the second plunger including a second locking mechanism configured to prevent the second plunger from sliding away from the proximal end of the syringe body when the second plunger is in a second initial position and the first plunger is being depressed. |
| US08961473B2 |
Drive mechanism for a drug delivery device and drug delivery device
A drive mechanism for a drug delivery device comprises a housing having a proximal end and a distal end and a piston rod, which is adapted to be displaced in a distal direction with respect to the housing when dispensing a drug dose. A drive member is adapted to be rotated when dispensing the drug dose, wherein the drive mechanism is configured to convert rotational movement of the drive member into a movement of the piston rod in the distal direction with respect to the housing. A stop member is adapted to prevent a rotational movement of the drive member with respect to the housing when setting a drug dose. The drive member comprises a drive portion being coupled to the piston rod and a first coupling portion which couples the drive portion and the stop member, wherein the drive mechanism is configured to be switchable between a set and dispense mode of operation and a reset mode of operation, and wherein, in the set and dispense mode, said first coupling portion is bi-directionally coupled to the drive portion for setting and dispensing the drug dose, and wherein, in the reset mode, said first coupling portion is decoupled from the drive portion to allow a reset operation to be performed for the drive mechanism. |
| US08961469B2 |
Self-injection device
A drug delivery device (100), including a body (104, 116) having a reservoir (164, 176) disposed therein for containing a medicament and an injection needle (152) for penetrating the skin of a patient, the needle (152) providing a path for the medicament between the reservoir (164, 176) and the patient. The device (100) also includes a needle cover (114) for selectively covering the injection needle (152), an adhesive (264) for selectively adhering the device to the patient, a release liner (500) for selectively covering a patient side of the adhesive (264), and a connecting means (112, 520, 512, 508, 524) for connecting the needle cover (114) and the release liner (500) such that removal of one of the needle cover (114) and the release liner (500) from the device (100) removes the other one of the needle cover (114) and the release liner (500). |
| US08961468B2 |
Access assembly
A surgical access assembly including a base and an elongated member extending from the base. The base defines a central axis and has an opening for receipt of a surgical instrument. The elongated member defines a passageway for passage of at least a portion of the surgical instrument and is adapted to assume a substantially rolled configuration in a normal unstressed condition thereof. When in the rolled configuration, the elongated member is rolled transverse to the central axis. |
| US08961467B2 |
Infusion pump assembly
An infusion pump assembly is disclosed. The infusion pump assembly includes a locking tab and a pump barrel inside a pump barrel housing, where the pump barrel accommodates a reservoir assembly. The reservoir assembly includes a reservoir and a plunger rod. The infusion pump assembly also includes a locking disc at a terminus of the pump barrel. The locking disc includes a clearance hole for the plunger rod. The locking disc also includes at least one locking tab notch in close proximity with the locking tab. The locking tab is in moveable engagement with the locking tab notch, and the reservoir moves the locking tab from a locked position to an unlocked position when the plunger rod is inserted through clearance hole. The locking disc rotates upon torque being applied to the reservoir assembly, the locking disc rotating from a non-loaded position to a loaded position with respect to the plunger rod and a drive screw. |
| US08961465B2 |
Insulin pump having a food database
A method for calculating a meal bolus in an insulin pump and an insulin pump are disclosed. The insulin pump includes a pump mechanism and a memory configured to store a plurality of food entries in a food database. The insulin pump also includes a programmable circuit arranged to control the pump mechanism and operatively connected to the memory. The programmable circuit is programmed to accept entry of one or more food entries into the food database. The programmable circuit is also programmed to associate each of the one or more food entries with a carbohydrate value. The programmable circuit is programmed to prompt selection of one or more food entries. The programmable circuit is further programmed to calculate a meal bolus based on the one or more food entries. |
| US08961461B2 |
Multi-state alarm system for a medical pump
An alarm system (52) for a medical pump (50) associated with delivering a fluid (54) to a patient in connection with treatment of the patient is provided. The alarm system (52) comprises an alarm (60) associated with at least one treatment parameter. The alarm (60) includes a first alarm state (1) associated with a first event relating to the treatment parameter and a second alarm state (2) associated with a second event. The second alarm state (2) is discernable from the first alarm state (1), which will allow each of the events to be treated differently by a caregiver. |
| US08961454B2 |
Milk expressing device capable of simulating a baby's suckling
A milk expressing device capable of simulating a baby's suckling includes first and second vacuum sources, a throttle hole, a solenoid relief valve, first and second tubes, a breast shield, and a control circuit board. The first tube connecting the first vacuum source and the breast shield is provided with the throttle hole to communicate with the atmosphere. When the first vacuum source is turned off, negative pressure in the first tube and the breast shield disappears slowly through the throttle hole. The second tube connecting the second vacuum source and the breast shield is provided with the solenoid relief valve to communicate with the atmosphere. When the solenoid relief valve is activated, negative pressure in the second tube and in the breast shield is rapidly removed. The control circuit board controls the first and second vacuum sources and the solenoid relief valve. |
| US08961450B2 |
Method and apparatus for dermal delivery of a substance
The present invention is directed to a method and apparatus for delivering substances, e.g., therapeutic substances, into openings on or near a skin surface, such as hair follicles, pores and/or into sebaceous glands. This can be achieved by using an apparatus to direct a substance into the openings under pressure via one or more nozzles or slits. A portion of the sebum present in the hair follicle is optionally heated and/or removed, e.g. using low-pressure conduit located on the lower surface of the apparatus, before introducing the therapeutic substance. |
| US08961449B2 |
Tampon insertion device for improved control and pledget placement
A tampon applicator assembly has a barrel with a fingergrip. The fingergrip has one or more flared portions and/or one or more rib-like or ring-like gripping structures. A tampon applicator fingergrip includes one or more flared portions having a flare angle between about 139° and about 156° and a curve represented by an equation range of y=16.127x3−1.5061x2+0.0568x+0.0001 to y=6.9136x3−0.5598x2+0.0168x+0.0003, where y is an incremental increase in a height of the curve at a distance along a length of the curve. |
| US08961447B2 |
Glaucoma treatment method
An ocular implant adapted to reside at least partially in a portion of Schlemm's canal of an eye. In some embodiments the implant has a body extending in a curved volume whose longitudinal axis forms an arc of a circle, and a plurality of open areas and strut areas formed in the body, the open areas extending over more than 50% of a surface defining the curved volume, the strut areas surrounding the open areas, the body having a diameter of between 0.005 inches and 0.04 inches. The invention also provides a method of treating glaucoma including the steps of supporting tissue forming Schlemm's canal in an eye with an implant extending at least partially in the canal along an axial length within the canal; and contacting with the implant less than 50% of the tissue forming the canal along the axial length. |
| US08961446B2 |
Implantable flow connector
An implantable flow connector for fluidically coupling a source tissue-enclosed body space with a destination element, comprising: a conduit having a lumen terminating at an orifice at a first end of the conduit implantable in the source body space through an opening formed in a tissue wall of the source body space, and a second end of the conduit implantable in the destination element through an opening in a surface of the destination element; and a circumferential flange, radially extending from the conduit proximate the conduit first end, configured to be implanted in the source body space adjacent an opening in the tissue wall of the source body space such that the conduit extends through the opening, the flange comprising one or more circumferentially adjacent sections at least one of which has a rigidity that decreases in a radially-increasing direction. |
| US08961439B2 |
System and method for analyzing gait using fabric sensors
A system for analyzing gait using textile sensors is disclosed. A system includes a sock sensing system, which comprises a sock and at least one switch, tension sensor, or pressure sensor for sensing a posture or movement; and a processor configured to receive signals from the sock sensing system and to analyze a gait parameter, wherein the processor is configured to calculate the gait parameter using a signal from the sock sensing system as a trigger point. |
| US08961436B2 |
Medical apparatus system having optical fiber load sensing capability
Apparatus is provided for diagnosing or treating an organ or vessel, wherein a device having at least two optical fiber sensors disposed in a distal extremity thereof is coupled to processing logic programmed to compute a multi-dimensional force vector responsive to detected changes in the optical characteristics of the optical fiber sensors arising from deflection of the distal extremity resulting from contact with the tissue of the wall of the organ or vessel. The force vector may be used to facilitate manipulation of the catheter either directly or automatically using a robotic system. |
| US08961432B2 |
Analyte testing devices
Systems, devices, techniques and methods are disclosed for implementing an actuator mechanism of an analyte testing device. In one aspect, a method to test an analyte includes advancing an analyte sensor from a first position within a sensor cartridge of an analyte testing device to a second position that exposes at least a portion of the analyte sensor outside of the device, advancing a lancet projecting component from an initial position to a cocked position for a subsequent projection of a lancet, in which the advancing the analyte sensor and the advancing the lancet projecting component are initiated by a single operation, projecting the lancet to expose at least a portion of the lancet outside of the device, receiving a testing sample including an analyte at the exposed portion of the analyte sensor, processing the testing sample to determine a parameter of the analyte, and ejecting the analyte sensor from the device. |
| US08961430B2 |
Single-insertion, multiple sampling biopsy device usable with various transport systems and integrated markers
A biopsy device includes a biopsy sample extraction needle with a sample extraction end and a recovery end. A transport channel links the extraction end and recovery end. A pump is provided, and a multi-way valve is coupled in fluid communication with the biopsy sample extraction needle and the pump. The multi-way valve has a plurality of settings. |
| US08961427B2 |
Spectrum analysis of coronary artery turbulent blood flow
Methods and apparatuses are described to obtain cardiac data, which includes acquiring vibrational field cardiac data from a transducer wherein the transducer measures vibration over a surface of a human's body. An unwanted coronary event is separated from vibrational cardiac data. A transient event is extracted from the vibrational cardiac heart cycle data. The transient event occurs during a diastolic interval within a heart cycle. The transient event is evaluated for a condition of coronary artery blood flow turbulence and a condition of health of a coronary artery is assessed from a feature in the vibrational frequency power spectrum estimate. |
| US08961419B2 |
Ultrasound diagnostic system with selective display of images based on viewing angle
An ultrasound diagnostic system is disclosed. The ultrasound diagnostic system allows an examiner and an examinee to view a diagnosis result on different screens through a single display unit by adjusting viewing angles depending on positions of the examiner and the examinee, thereby providing a screen for the current diagnosis status to the examinee without a separate monitor for the examinee and providing an optimized screen for diagnosis to the examiner. |
| US08961416B2 |
System for monitoring physiological characteristics
Apparatuses and methods for medical monitoring physiological characteristic values such as blood glucose levels for the treatment of diabetes, are presented. The apparatuses and methods provide advanced alarm and reminder functions, as well as advanced data presentation tools to further facilitate convenient and efficient management of various physiological conditions. For example, an alarm repeat delay can be used to prevent redundant alarms for a specified period and an alarm snooze function can be used to prevent alarms generally for a specified period. |
| US08961414B2 |
Apparatus for monitoring health, wellness and fitness
The invention is a system for monitoring and reporting the activity level and caloric expenditure of an individual. The system has sensors in electronic communication with a wearable device. A processor is programmed to communicate with the sensor and a computing device to activity data from movement-related data. A remote server receiving the activity data and the data from computing device, and generates a graphical presentation. The graphical presentation comprises information related to the activity data. The wearable device also provides visual and audio data. |
| US08961409B2 |
Thoracic access assembly
A surgical access assembly for accessing a cavity of a patient includes a proximal frame member, a distal frame member, and a membrane between the proximal and distal frame members. The proximal frame member is positionable adjacent an external surface of tissue and has first and second frame portions movable between a contracted condition and an expanded condition to expand an opening defined therethrough. The membrane defines a loop disposed about at least a portion of the proximal frame member at a proximal end thereof and is engaged to the distal frame member at a distal end thereof. The membrane is transitionable between a crumpled condition and an extended condition upon transitioning of the proximal frame member between the contracted condition and the expanded condition. |
| US08961406B2 |
Surgical access devices and methods providing seal movement in predefined movement regions
Various methods and devices are provided for allowing multiple surgical instruments to be inserted into sealing elements of a single surgical access device. The sealing elements can be movable along predefined pathways within the device to allow surgical instruments inserted through the sealing elements to be moved laterally, rotationally, angularly, and vertically relative to a central longitudinal axis of the device for ease of manipulation within a patient's body while maintaining insufflation. |
| US08961402B2 |
Endoscope
An endoscope includes an insertion portion, a bending portion bendable in an up-down direction and a left-right direction, a traction member for bending the bending portion, an operation portion provided at a proximal end of the insertion portion, an operation input portion provided in the operation portion, tiltable with respect to a first direction for bending the bending portion in the up-down direction and a second direction for bending the bending portion in the left-right direction, and for performing an operation input for acting on the traction member according to tilting operation and bending the bending portion, and an operation force amount adjusting portion configured to adjust an operation force amount for tilting the operation input portion in the first direction and an operation force amount for tilting the operation input portion in the second direction to be different. |
| US08961399B2 |
Medical robotic system having entry guide controller with instrument tip velocity limiting
A medical robotic system includes an entry guide with articulatable instruments extending out of its distal end, an entry guide manipulator providing controllable four degrees-of-freedom movement of the entry guide, and a controller configured to limit joint velocities in the entry guide manipulator so as to prevent movement of tips of the articulatable instruments from exceeding a maximum allowable linear velocity when the entry guide manipulator is being used to move the entry guide. |
| US08961392B2 |
Delivery system for inflatable implant
An implant delivery system can be used to deliver an implant into a body. The implant delivery system can include an inflation tube and a tubular member surrounding the inflation tube. The inflation tube can be used to provide an inflation medium to the implant. The tubular member can have a distal tip and an opening spaced from the tip to allow the implant to be released through the opening into an anatomical structure within the body. |
| US08961389B2 |
Endovascular ventricular assist device, using the mathematical objective and principal of superposition
This embodiment suggests new approach for Endovascular Ventricular Assist Device, using the mathematical objective & principle of superposition allow design and calculation of the body response to VAD pump located in the Aorta. This new approach allows minimal invasive Endovascular VAD that result in similar relief to the heart as partial VAD. Using special power transfer technique will allow wireless power transformation into the aorta. This methods and technique should dramatic reduce VAD barrier |
| US08961388B2 |
Generating artificial pulse
In order to produce a pulsatile blood flow pattern that includes time periods of relatively high blood flow rates and time periods of relatively low blood flow rates, the operating speed of a blood pump can be selectively controlled to produce an operating speed pattern that includes time periods of relatively high rotation speeds and periods of relatively low rotation speeds. For example, the blood pump is rotated at a first speed for a first period of time. The speed of the blood pump is then decreased from the first speed to a second speed and is operated at the second speed for a second amount of time. The speed of the blood pump is then decreased to a third speed for a third amount of time. If desired, the operating speed pattern can be repeated to continue the pulsatile blood flow pattern. |
| US08961381B2 |
Dual feed centrifuge
A dual feed centrifuge system for separating solids from fluids in a drilling mud, the centrifuge system including: a bowl; a screw conveyor rotatably mounted within the bowl; a first feed pipe mounted within the screw conveyor for feeding a drilling mud through a first feed port in a wall of the screw conveyor to a first annular space between the bowl and the wall of the screw conveyor; and a second feed pipe mounted within the screw conveyor for feeding a drilling mud through a second feed port in the wall of the screw conveyor to a second annular space between the bowl and the wall of the screw conveyor. The multiple feed ports may allow the centrifuge to operate more efficiently with both weighted and unweighted drilling fluids. |
| US08961380B2 |
Method and system for forming a carton from a carton blank
Systems and methods are disclosed for forming a carton. The system may comprise a magazine for storing a plurality of carton blanks in a generally flat configuration. The system also has a mandrel and a panel rotation apparatus. The mandrel has a first surface oriented at a first orientation and a second surface oriented at a second orientation that may be generally orthogonal to the first orientation. The panel rotation apparatus is operable to engage a second panel of the carton blank and rotate the second panel to proximate to, and generally in the same orientation as, the second surface of the mandrel such that the second panel is oriented in a second orientation generally orthogonal to the first panel. |
| US08961378B2 |
Elastic resistance cord training system and handles
A handle for an elastic resistance cord training system includes a grip on a handle frame adjacent to a first end of the handle frame. A base is provided on the handle frame adjacent to a second end of the handle frame, with the base having one or more one cord channels. A gate is movable or slidable on the handle frame from an open position where the gate is substantially spaced apart from the cord channel, to a closed position wherein the gate overlies the cord channel. With the gate in the open position, the cords can be quickly and easily swapped out. |
| US08961370B2 |
Vehicle control apparatus
A vehicle control apparatus includes a controller that performs control such that an engine output does not increase when a control mechanism and a brake override are operated simultaneously, wherein the control mechanism controls the engine output independently of an accelerator operation amount, and wherein the brake override system reduces the engine output in response to simultaneous operations of an accelerator and a brake. |
| US08961368B2 |
Charge air cooler condensate purging cycle
Methods and systems are provided for purging condensate from a charge air cooler to an engine intake. During an engine deceleration event, the vehicle is downshifted into a lower gear to increase RPM and airflow through a charge air cooler to purge stored condensate to the engine intake. By delivering condensate while an engine is not fueled, misfire events resulting from ingestion of water are reduced. |
| US08961365B2 |
Power transmission control apparatus for vehicle
A manual transmission including an input shaft Ai receiving power from an internal combustion engine through a clutch, an output shaft Ao receiving power from an electric motor, an EV gear stage for EV travel (different from neutral) in which no power transmission route is established between Ai and Ao, and a plurality of gear stages for HV travel in which a power transmission route is established between Ai and Ao. The movement of a shift lever SL from the neutral position to an EV-gear-stage shift completion position and the movement of the shift lever SL from the neutral position to the EV-gear-stage shift completion position is permitted only in a state in which the clutch pedal CP is depressed to provide an HV-MT vehicle power transmission control apparatus that includes a mechanism requiring a driver to operate a clutch pedal at the time of gear change. |
| US08961364B2 |
Method and system to manage driveline oscillations with clutch pressure control
A system and method for controlling a vehicle having an electric traction motor coupled to a transmission by a clutch include modifying torque transmitted to the driveline by modifying the clutch apply pressure in response to a difference between rotational speed of a driveline component and a filtered rotational speed of the driveline component to reduce driveline oscillation when the clutch is unlocked. The clutch pressure may be modified in response to a vehicle event that may otherwise induce driveline oscillations, such as a transmission ratio change or regenerative braking, for example. |
| US08961363B2 |
Continuously variable transmission
Provided with first and second rotational members, a sun roller, a plurality of planetary balls sandwiched between the first and second rotational members, a support shaft of each of the planetary balls, a shaft, a carrier, an iris plate and a worm gear for tilting each of the planetary balls, and an input shaft and an output shaft individually fixed to the first and second rotational members, respectively, in which a movable amount of the sun roller relative to the carrier in an axis line direction is set to be smaller than the movable amount of the second rotational member relative to the carrier in the axis line direction when the input shaft is arranged so as to be relatively rotatable on an outer peripheral surface of the output shaft. |
| US08961361B2 |
Wheel drive unit
A wheel drive unit includes: a planetary gear mechanism including a planetary gear and an internally-toothed gear; a casing integrated with the internally-toothed gear, a wheel being attached to the casing, and the casing transmitting rotation of the internally-toothed gear to the wheel; a bearing nut configured to prevent axial movement of the casing; and an oil seal provided more toward an interior of a vehicle than the planetary gear mechanism and axially fixed with respect the casing. An inner diameter of the detachment prevention member is smaller than an outer diameter of the externally-toothed gear. |
| US08961359B2 |
Planet carrier and clutch housing
A planet carrier and clutch housing for a transmission is provided. The planet carrier and clutch housing includes a first deck, a second deck, an annulus and a plurality of planet carrier posts. The first deck has an inner rim, an outer rim, planet shaft bores and control oil bores. The second deck has an inner rim, an outer rim, a piston recess disposed between the inner and outer rims, planet shaft bores and control oil bores fluidly coupled to the piston recess. The annulus extends from the second deck. The planet carrier posts connect the first deck to the second deck, and each post has a control oil bore fluidly coupling respective control oil bores in the first and second decks. The inner surface of each second deck planet shaft bore may include a groove to receive a planet shaft seal. |
| US08961351B2 |
Continuously variable transmission
A continuously variable transmission includes a first gear shift mechanism for changing continuously a speed ratio of drive power input from a prime mover, a second gear shift mechanism for changing continuously a speed ratio of drive power input from the prime mover, and a planetary gear mechanism to which drive power output from the first gear shift mechanism and that output from the second gear shift mechanism are input and from which combined drive power is output to an output shaft. The planetary gear mechanism includes a sun gear, a planetary carrier and a ring gear. An output from the first gear shift mechanism and that from the second gear shift mechanism are respectively input to any two of the sun gear, the planetary carrier and the ring gear and the remaining one is coupled to the output shaft. |
| US08961339B2 |
Sports training target and methods thereof
A sports training target is provided. In exemplary embodiments, a sports training target may comprise a return net for substantially covering an opening defined by a frame, the return net adapted to withstand the impact of a sports projectile propelled from an originating location and allow the sports projectile to pass downward along the return net, exit a bottom portion of the return net, and return in the direction of the originating location; a target for substantially covering the return net, the target having an opening formed therein, the opening adapted to allow the sports projectile to pass behind the target to the return net, the target adapted to withstand the impact of a sports projectile; and an attachment means adapted to attach the sports training target to the frame. |
| US08961336B1 |
Golf club heads and methods to manufacture golf club heads
Embodiments of golf club heads and methods to manufacture golf club heads are generally described herein. In one example, a golf club head may include a plurality of weight portions and a body portion. The plurality of weight portions may be associated with a total weight portion mass. The body portion may include a face portion, a toe portion, a sole portion, an interior cavity that may extend between the top and sole portions, and a back portion with a plurality of exterior weight ports having a first set of exterior weight ports and a second set of exterior weight ports. Each of the plurality of exterior weight ports is associated with a port diameter and configured to receive at least one weight portion of the plurality of weight portions. Other examples and embodiments may be described and claimed. |
| US08961331B2 |
Golf club shaft
A shaft 6 has a plurality of full length layers s2, s3, and s6 to s9. The full length layers have full length bias layers s2 and s3, and full length straight layers s6, s8, and s9. The full length straight layers s6, s8, s9 located outside the full length bias layers s2 and s3 include a novolac-containing layer. In the novolac-containing layer, a content Rn of the novolac type epoxy resin is 3% by mass or greater and 19% by mass or less. If an average specific gravity of the novolac-containing layers constituting the full length straight layers is defined as S1, and an average specific gravity of the full length bias layers and inside of the full length bias layers is defined as S2, the specific gravity S1 is greater than the specific gravity S2. |
| US08961327B1 |
Sharp shooter billiards systems
A billiard table useful for entertaining that may be set up against a wall, for people to play the novel billiard-style game from only one side (end). The table may have two bowed leg stands. The two stands may be bolted or otherwise affixed to the underside of the table. The table may be made out of plywood and oak with a felt playing surface. Pockets with designated numbers may run along the top and the bottom of the table. Players may call their shot, set up the ball, and then aim for the corresponding pocket. If the player sinks the ball into the called pocket, the ball will return to the front of the table in the same numbered pocket to easily keep track of the score. The device saves room and involves a great deal of strategy to play. |
| US08961323B2 |
Gaming machine
A gaming machine with more gaming excitement is provided. The gaming machine includes: a cabinet; an upper image display panel which is provided on the cabinet and is a display o which an effect image is displayed as an effect; a sensor configured to detect a touch operation by a player; a lamp body which is a three-dimensional formed object, and a formed object unit which is detachable to the cabinet. |
| US08961321B2 |
Management of gaming data
Systems and methods for managing gaming data are provided. The system may include at least one computing device coupled to a gaming service. The computing device may be configured to execute a gaming engine configured to generate a first character profile based on a user's interaction within a gaming environment included in a first gaming application. Additionally, the computing device may be configured to execute an update module configured to merge the first character profile with a second character profile generated via a second gaming application based on a user's interaction within a second gaming environment and generate a merged character profile, the merged character profile including content from the first and second character profiles, wherein the content include statistical data, character trait data, and/or item data from the first and second character profiles. |
| US08961315B1 |
Providing tasks to users during electronic game play
Techniques are described for facilitating performance of tasks by users in a computer game environment. In some situations, the techniques include automated operations of a system that receives multiple tasks from a task fulfillment system, provides the multiple tasks to multiple users as part of playing an electronic game, receives results of performance of the tasks by the users as part of the game playing, sends the task performance results to the task fulfillment system, receives and retains monetary compensation for the performance of the tasks, and provides non-monetary virtual rewards to the multiple users for the performance of the provided multiple tasks. The non-monetary virtual rewards may be rewards that are part of the electronic game and are usable by the multiple users as part of the playing of the electronic game. |
| US08961314B2 |
Device for providing virtual client managing module, apparatus for managing virtual client, and method for testing a game by using virtual client managing module
The present invention relates to a technology for easily generating and supplying a virtual client managing module specified for various games and testing the load and function of a game through a virtual client managing module and an apparatus for managing a virtual client. The device for managing a virtual client managing module according to the exemplary embodiment of the present invention performs a function that uses template specialized for each type of game as game unique information to generate a specialized module and generates the virtual client managing module combined with the common module. The apparatus for managing the virtual client generates and controls the virtual client based on the virtual client managing module. |
| US08961313B2 |
Multi-positional three-dimensional controller
Systems and methods are disclosed to control interactivity with a video gaming system. The system includes a game console and a controller that is configured to be held in a plurality of handhold orientations. The controller further includes a handle that extends between a first end and a second end along a length axis and an input feature disposed at the first end. The input feature includes sensors to detect manipulations that cause a relative movement between the input feature and the handle. The manipulations that are detected include torque applied to the input feature about the length axis. Where the detected manipulation are relayed to the game console where the game console correlates the detected manipulation into control of the video game. The gaming system can be primarily executed through a local game console, or the game console (or computing device), can communicate to remote servers, over the internet, to processes primary execution. And, the processing can be for one or more users connected to interactive applications, in a multi-user gaming, communication and/or interactive application. |
| US08961312B2 |
Motion-sensitive controller and associated gaming applications
A wireless input device for playing an interactive motion-sensitive game using a wireless-compatible game console in which a virtual play environment is represented through one or more computer-animated visual, aural or tactile effects is provided wherein game play is conducted by moving, shaking, twisting, waving or pointing the input device in a particular manner. The input device can include motion-sensitive circuitry and/or command circuitry for generating control signals and/or an effects generator and associated control circuitry to enable the input device to selectively generate at least one visual, aural or tactile effect comprising sound, lighting or vibration. The input device can include a wireless transceiver for providing two-way wireless communication with the wireless-compatible game console. One or more optional auxiliary components modularly attach to the input device to selectively create a modified input device having different desired functions or aesthetics. |
| US08961311B2 |
Button structure for game controller
A button structure includes a base frame longitudinally defining an arc-shaped guide slot, a sliding part transversely defining a guide channel and longitudinally slidably mounted on the base frame, a rotating part defining a guide pillar and rotatably mounted under the base frame with the guide pillar being inserted in the guide slot and the guide channel, and a button body having a lower portion pivoted to the base frame. A drive part is rotatably pivoted between an upper portion of the button body and the sliding part, and can drive the sliding part to longitudinally slide on the base frame by the push of the button body and an elastic part clamped between the drive part and the base frame, so as to drive the guide pillar to slide rearward and forward along the guide slot and the guide channel and further drive the rotating part to rotate. |
| US08961304B2 |
Gaming device video display system
A wagering device video display system for displaying a presentation on a plurality of display devices. A plurality of gaming devices and video displays are provided. Each video display may be controlled by a video display controller that is adapted to communicate with other video display controllers. When a multi-screen presentation is requested by a gaming device or a game device controller, the video display controllers coordinate among themselves to determine when the presentation will be displayed. Various bonus presentations or attractive presentations may be displayed on a plurality of video screens. |
| US08961295B2 |
Power conservation in wagering game machines
Systems and methods provide power management on a wagering game machine. Inrush power may be reduced by staggering application of power to various power supplies in a wagering game machine. A processor or timer may control the activation of power supplies. Further power management may be provided by placing wagering game machine peripherals in a power consumption mode appropriate to the activity or lack of activity on a wagering game machine. |
| US08961294B2 |
Gaming machine capable of improving amusingness
The present invention provides a gaming machine capable of improving amusingness of a game by varying the continuity of the main game. According to the present invention, a normal mode game in the normal mode is started based on an input of the bet information from the bet input device; the mode is entered from the normal mode to the chance mode when an enter condition is satisfied as a result of referring to the predetermined symbol determination table in the normal mode; a free game is started as a chance mode game in the chance mode; and the mode is returned from the chance mode to the normal mode when an end condition is satisfied as a result of referring to the specific symbol determination table in the chance mode. |
| US08961291B2 |
Method of gaming, a gaming system and a game controller
A gaming system is disclosed which comprises a display, a symbol selector arranged to select at least a first set of normal symbols to be displayed by the display at a plurality of display positions and to cause a special symbol to be displayed at a display position, a special symbol controller arranged to replicate an aspect of the special symbol until an end condition is met, the special symbol controller arranged to maintain each previously displayed special symbol in the display position where the special symbol occurred, select at least one display position for each replicated aspect of the special symbol and cause each replicated aspect of the special symbol to be displayed at the selected position, and an outcome generator arranged to determine at least one game outcome based on the displayed special symbol, the displayed normal symbols and the replicated aspect of the special symbol. A corresponding method is also disclosed. |
| US08961289B2 |
Gaming machine reproducing bet pattern and playing method thereof
A gaming machine executes a game in which a player makes a bet in a desired bet pattern having combined a plurality of bet elements; stores the bet pattern used for the game; and allows the player to select one of the bet element and the bet pattern. When the bet element is selected, a bet is made by the bet pattern using the bet element selected. When the bet pattern is selected, a bet is made by the bet pattern selected. |
| US08961286B2 |
Method and device for harvesting threshed crops
A method and device for harvesting threshed crops including a threshing assembly (3) arranged downstream of a cutting assembly (2) of a combine harvester (1) for separating the grain-chaff mixture (12) from the straw. A chaffing device (4) is arranged downstream of the threshing assembly (3) for separating the total straw fraction into a first and a second straw fraction (5.1, 5.2). A comminution device (8) is arranged downstream of the chaffing device (5) for comminuting the second straw fraction (5.2). A blower (10) having a suction pipe (9) draws in and mixes the grain-chaff mixture (12) and the second straw fraction (5.2) to form a mixture (18) of grain, chaff, and second straw fraction and conveys the mixture (18) into a silo (14). |
| US08961284B2 |
System and method for controlling spreader output from a harvester
A system and method for controlling spreader output from a harvester includes a distribution chamber for receiving an agricultural material removed from a field. The harvester includes a spreader system configured to distribute the agricultural material onto the field, and an opening configured to receive the agricultural material from the distribution chamber. Moreover, the distribution chamber includes a first panel rotatably coupled to a first side of the distribution chamber, and a second panel rotatably coupled to a second side of the distribution chamber. The first and second panels are configured to direct the agricultural material toward the opening of the spreader system. An angle of the first panel is independently adjustable to control a first amount of agricultural material directed toward a first inlet portion. An angle of the second panel is independently adjustable to control a second amount of agricultural material directed toward a second inlet portion. |
| US08961280B2 |
Method of manufacturing a venting device for tamper resistant electronic modules
A tamper resistant enclosure for an electronic circuit includes an inner copper case, a tamper sensing mesh wrapped around the inner case, an outer copper case enclosing the inner case and the tamper sensing mesh, and a venting device forming a vent channel from inside the inner case to outside the outer case, the vent channel passing between overlapping layers of the tamper sensing mesh and having at least one right angle bend along its length. The venting device consists of two strips of a thin polyamide coverlay material laminated together along their length, and a length of wool yarn sandwiched between the two thin strips and extending from one end of the strips to the other end of the strips to form the vent channel. The length of yarn follows a zig-zag path between the first and second strips, the zig-zag path including at least one right angle bend. |
| US08961279B2 |
Air conditioning system
Some embodiment includes an air conditioner, an air blower, a sensor, and a controller. The air conditioner works for supply to cold spaces. The air blower produces streams of air in and between a server room and an air conditioning system. The sensor takes a measure of current or power as consumption at servers. The controller operates on the measure at the sensor, to control the air blower. |
| US08961275B2 |
Coin depositing and dispensing machine
A coin depositing and dispensing machine that enables reduction of the space required to be provided above the coin passage in order to transport coins, thereby enabling the machine body to be made more compact, or increasing the coin accommodating capacity of the accommodating and ejecting units by the amount equivalent to the volume of the reduction of the space. An endless transporting belt is provided above an identifying passage and a sorting passage. The transporting belt is stretched across a plurality of pulleys rotatably supported in a horizontal position by vertically extending shafts. As the space required to be provided above the coin passage to install the transporting belt can be reduced, it is possible to make the machine body more compact, or increase the coin accommodating capacity of the accommodating and ejecting units by the amount equivalent to the volume of the reduction of the space. |
| US08961273B2 |
Poultry front half processing apparatus and method
A poultry front half processing module is shown and described. The module includes a rotatable wing bracket for securely engaging the wings of the front half to allow more accurate processing and easier deboning and transfer operations. |
| US08961270B2 |
Apparatus and method for providing a modular abrasive blasting and recovery system
A modular abrasive particle blasting system comprises an abrasive blast assembly including at least one blast vessel for delivering blast particles to an abrasive blasting system. The abrasive blast assembly is mounted within a first skid. An abrasive recycling assembly includes at least one vacuum hopper for receiving grit retrieved from an abrasive blasting process. The abrasive recycling assembly is mounted within a second skid. The first and second skids comprise mounting members at a top section and a bottom section of each of the first and second skids to permit mounting of the first and second skids in alternate stacked arrangements whereby the first skid is selective mounted above and below the second skid. The same skid principal may be used to provide a variety of skids, including blast skid, vacuum skid, recycle skid, storage skid, air dryer skid, dust collector skid and or dehumidification skid. |
| US08961268B2 |
Method for hard fine machining of the tooth flanks of a gear wheel
The invention relates to a method for hard fine machining of a pre-manufactured flank (11) of a gear wheel by a machine having at least five axes controlled in coordination and one additional tool axis (WA). According to the invention, a rotation-symmetrical tool (20.1) is driven on the machine side such that it is set into a rotation (RA) about the tool axis (WA). In addition, the axes controlled in coordination are actuated such that a straight-lined section of the surface line of the tool (20.1) is guided tangentially along the flank (11) in a generating movement while the tool (20.1) removes material on the pre-manufactured flank (11) by means of the rotation (R1) about the tool axis (WA). The generating movement follows pre-specified movement vectors (E). |
| US08961267B2 |
Ophthalmic machine and method for machining and/or polishing a lens
The invention relates to an ophthalmic machining machine comprising machining means and means for supporting a blank. The invention is characterized in that the machine is capable of transferring marks to said blank that can be identified by monitoring means for repositioning the blank on said supporting means after machining the opposite surface. The invention also relates to a workholding tool. The invention is characterized in that said supporting means are mounted on a bearing surface, which is oblique in relation to a surface of a carriage, by depression of an opening surrounded by an O-ring seal and a fixed bearing. The invention also relates to a machining method according to which the markings are transferred to a blank, the position of said markings is assessed by monitoring means which position machining means for the machining process, and each surface of the resulting lens is polished with polishing means. |
| US08961263B2 |
Brassiere with concealable shirt sleeve retaining loop
A sleeve material retaining loop is attached to or looped around a strap of a brassiere to retain gathered sleeve material or other items. One end of the sleeve material retaining loop extends out of the neck hole of the outer garment, and another end of the loop extends out of the arm hole of the sleeve above the shoulder of the wearer. The first and second ends of the sleeve material retaining loop are attached at the shoulder of the wearer to retain the sleeve. This helps prevent the sleeve from interfering with the wearer's movement and improves evaporative cooling of the wearer. A sleeve retaining loop storing mechanism stores the loop. Each sleeve retaining loop may be formed of separate interchangeable pieces that are attached to the brassiere. An additional piece of clothing may also be secured to a fastener on the brassiere. |
| US08961260B2 |
Toy incorporating RFID tracking device
Embodiments of the present invention provide a children's toy, such as a doll, an action figure or a stuffed toy, having an associated wireless, batteryless RFID tag that can be read from and/or written to using a radio-frequency communication protocol. The RFID tag may be located within an internal cavity of the toy so as to provide wireless communication of stored information without requiring physical access to the tag. RFID-tagged toys can be quickly and easily identified using one or more RFID reader devices. Additional information (e.g., unique personality traits, special powers, skill levels, etc.) can also be stored on the RFID tag, thus providing further personality enhancement, input/output programming, simulated intelligence and/or interactive gaming possibilities. |
| US08961256B2 |
Apparatus and method of fabricating organic electroluminescent device
A method and apparatus for fabricating an organic electroluminescent device, are discussed. According to an embodiment, the method includes depositing an organic material on a substrate coupled to a first tray in a first substrate treatment unit using the first tray as a mask, depositing a metal material on the substrate coupled to a second tray in a second substrate treatment unit using the second tray as mask, wherein the deposition of the organic material or the metal material in the first and second substrate treatment units includes primarily moving the first and second trays such that the first and second trays are aligned with the substrate, when each of the first and second trays is coupled to the substrate, and secondarily moving the first and second trays and the substrate such that the substrate and the trays are aligned at predetermined positions. |
| US08961248B2 |
System for reversing a high mass/low-pressure liquid propulsion device
A high mass/low pressure liquid propulsion device which includes:—two counter-rotating impellers mounted inside a housing;—an inlet which in use allows inflow of liquid into the housing on a first side of said impellers; an outlet which in use allows outflow of liquid from the housing on a second side of said impellers opposite to said first side;—means for driving said impellers;—wherein the improvement comprises the provision of means for reversing the drive to said impellers, such that the direction of flow of liquid through the device is reversed and liquid enters the device through said outlet, passes through said impellers, and leaves the device through said inlet. |
| US08961238B2 |
Communication jack with two jackwire contacts mounted on a finger of a flexible printed circuit board
Communications jacks include at least first through third jackwire contacts and a flexible substrate that has a first finger and a second finger. The first jackwire contact and the third jackwire contact are each mounted on the first finger and the second jackwire contact is mounted on the second finger. |
| US08961236B2 |
Connector preventing electrostatic discharge
A connector, comprising an insulative body, a plurality of conduction terminals, and a shielding shell. The tongue panel of the insulative body comprises a first surface and a second surface. The conduction terminals are arranged as first conduction terminals in the front row and second conduction terminals in the back row, the first conduction terminals comprising a first contact portion, a bending portion bent and extended from the rear edge of the first contact portion, a first fixing portion and a first welding portion. The first surface of the tongue panel is provided with a first receiving slot for receiving the first fixing portion and a recess portion disposed at the front end of the first receiving slot, the recess portion is formed as an opening for the first contact portion to nm through the opening from the first surface to be fixed onto the second surface. |
| US08961234B2 |
PCB connection unit
An electronic device comprising a base printed circuit board (PCB); a first edge card socket mounted on said base PCB, said socket having PCB contacts; and a PCB connection unit having PCB contacts thereon, said unit being slideably connectable to said first edge card socket and adapted to be slideably inserted into, and to make electrical contact with, a second edge card socket mounted on a second base PCB. |
| US08961228B2 |
Electrical connector having shielded differential pairs
An electrical connector including a connector housing having a mating face that is configured to engage a mating connector. The electrical connector also includes a contact module that is held by the connector housing and that includes differential pairs of signal conductors. The contact module also includes dielectric ribs that encase corresponding signal conductors. The dielectric ribs are spaced apart from one another. The contact module also includes guard conductors that extend between and couple to adjacent dielectric ribs. The contact module also includes a conductive layer that is disposed on the dielectric ribs and the guard conductors. The conductive layer is electrically coupled to the guard conductors. |
| US08961227B2 |
Connector having improved contacts
An electrical connector for connecting a conductor of a daughter card connector wafer with a blade in the housing of a backplane connector. The daughter card conductor has a body with two elongated beams extending outward from the body. The two elongated beams each have an outer edge and an inner edge, whereby an opening is defined between the inner edges. The backplane conductor has a body with a narrowed tab portion extending outward from said second conductor body. The narrowed tab portion having outer opposite edges and is sized so that the narrowed tab portion fits between at least a portion of the outer edges of the two elongated beams, and in some cases between at least a portion of the inner edges of the two elongated beams. |
| US08961225B2 |
Flexible water-tight seal for a movable component
A flexible, water tight seal for a movable component. The seal has a border plate sandwiched between two sealing gaskets. The seal is compressed between two components that remain out of contact with each other. The seal is installed axially between the components. For components having circular contact areas, the seal can be constructed from a washer sandwiched between two O-rings. The components float on the compressed seal to allow some flexibility between the components while maintaining a water tight seal. |
| US08961224B2 |
Coupling system for electrical connector assembly
An electrical connector assembly that comprises a first connector member supporting a first contact and has a first interface end that defines a first tapered surface, and a second connector member supporting a second contact and has a second interface end that mates with the first interface end. The second interface end has a second tapered surface. The first and second tapered surfaces have substantially the same angle of taper and taper in opposite directions to engage one another to form a friction fit. A coupling member is mounted near one of the interface ends and has an external engagement member that is configured to engage a corresponding external engagement member. A biasing member is disposed in an annular receiving area. The coupling member is movable between an unlocked position when the external engagement members are not engaged and a locked position when the external engagement members are engaged. |
| US08961222B2 |
Coaxial cable connector structure
A coaxial cable connector structure including a sleeve and an annular nut on the front end of the sleeve is disclosed, wherein an inner tube is disposed inside the sleeve for connecting the coaxial cable, and a spring is disposed on the bottom of the annular nut for the end surface of the connection base towards the annular nut to contact the spring and electrically connect the inner tube when the connection base is screwed into the annular nut, so that the coaxial cable connector structure can transmit signals when it is not completely screwed onto the connection base, and provide the effect of vibration suppression from the compressed spring having its two ends abutted against the bottom of the annular nut and the end surface of the connection base by the elastic restoring force when the connection base is completely screwed onto the connection base. |
| US08961219B2 |
Communication plug with improved cable manager
A communication plug is described. The communication plug has a communication cable with a plurality of conductors, a plug housing, and a cable manager partially enclosed, within the plug housing. The cable manager has a load bar with a plurality of holes, a first cable management section connected to the load bar via a first hinge, and a second cable management section connected to the load bar via a second hinge. The first and second cable management sections are configured to fold together and partially enclose the cable before the cable manager is inserted into the plug housing. |
| US08961217B2 |
Electrical connector assembly with integrated latching system, strain relief, and EMI shielding
An electrical connector includes an electrically conductive housing for inhibiting electromagnetic interference. A latch device is mounted to opposite sides of the housing and extends from the housing for positively latching together the electrical connector with a mating connector. The latch device includes a biasing member for driving a latching end of the latch device toward a catch of the mating connector to securely retain the connectors in a mated configuration. The housing further includes a skirt on a mating end, the skirt having a plurality of cantilevered tangs for bearing against a corresponding skirt of the mating connector. |
| US08961214B2 |
Connecting device and combination of the same and expansion card
A connecting device includes a riser bracket, a positioning mechanism and a riser card. The positioning mechanism has a plurality of standoffs and a latch disposed on the riser bracket. Each standoff has a head, a shoulder and a neck interconnecting the head and the shoulder. The latch is movable between a locking position for locking the riser card and a releasing position. The riser card is formed with a plurality of through holes corresponding in position to the standoffs. Each through hole has a large hole portion for extension of the head of a respective standoff and a small hole portion having an inner diameter that is equal to an outer diameter of the neck of the respective standoff. |
| US08961209B2 |
Cell-voltage detection connector
To provide a technique by which an accumulated tolerance caused by the arrangement of terminal fittings is eliminated to improve the workability in a multipole cell-voltage detection connector. When all of receptacle terminals (94) are inserted into receptacle insertion groove parts (22), each of the receptacle terminals (94) is buckled at a bending hole (97) and a mark-off part (98) formed as a boundary of a receptacle root part (95) and a receptacle front part (96). Because the receptacle insertion groove parts (22) are formed in a state where there is substantially no tolerance, the terminal pitch tolerance correction housing (10) is fitted to receptacle units (90), and the receptacle terminals (94) (receptacle front parts (96)) protruded from the receptacle insertion groove parts (22) toward a bottom inner surface (15) are corrected to a state where there is no tolerance. |
| US08961208B2 |
Electrical wall bushing terminal
An electric through-wall terminal having a housing and a contact device, at which a plug zone is provided for accommodating a test- and/or connection plug. A first conductor terminal is provided which is connected with a first contact unit of the contact device. A second conductor terminal is connected with a second contact unit of the contact device. The housing comprises plug-in apertures on two sides from each of which a test- and/or connection plug can be inserted into the plug zone for contacting the first and second contact units. |
| US08961206B1 |
Mini USB connector with card plug-in function
A mini USB connector with card plug-in function includes an electrical insulating terminal holder including an accommodation chamber and first and second tongue members bilaterally disposed at a front side of the accommodation chamber, a conducting terminal set including multiple conducting terminals mounted in the accommodation chamber and arranged in three sets, and an EMI shielding shell surrounding the electrical insulating terminal holder and the conducting terminals and defining therein a mating chamber that matches with the accommodation chamber, the first tongue member and the second tongue member to constitute first, second and third insertion spaces respectively for the insertion of different types of electronic cards or electrical connectors. |
| US08961202B2 |
Electrical safety device
An electrical safety device includes a body having a cavity, a plurality of prongs configured to be received into sockets of an electrical outlet, and a plurality of sockets each of which is configured to receive a prong of an electrical plug therein. The electrical safety device further includes a locking assembly configured to secure the prongs of the electrical plug in the sockets of the body. At least a portion of each of the prongs of the electrical safety device includes at least one insulator disposed thereon and a retractable sheath surrounds each of the prongs of the electrical safety device to militate against an undesired contact therewith. |
| US08961201B2 |
Mounting rail bus system
A mounting rail bus system for supplying power voltage and data signals to a plurality of modules, including a plurality of longitudinally-arranged bus devices mounting the modules in parallel spaced transverse relation on a mounting rail, each of the bus devices including a printed circuit board having parallel strip conductors for transmitting data signals, and a pair of power contact pins for transmitting a power voltage, characterized by the provision of a plurality of generally L-shaped double bushing contact elements have module bush segments for respectively connecting the strip conductors and the contact pins of the bus device with the associated module, and orthogonally arranged partner bush segments for connecting together the strip conductors and pin contacts of adjacent bus devices, respectively, whereby power voltage and data signals are transmitted from the bus device both to the associated module and to the adjacent partner bus device. |
| US08961200B2 |
Connector and solder sheet
A connector includes a lead part configured to be connected to a board; and a solder sheet having a plate shape. The solder sheet is engaged with and fixed to the lead part with the lead part passing through a hole in the solder sheet. At least one of the lead part and the solder sheet has a structure configured to prevent the solder sheet from coming off the lead part. |
| US08961198B2 |
Electrical junction box connections
A junction box assembly is provided with a conductive boss having a first contact surface and a second contact surface spaced apart from the first contact surface. A pair of threaded conductive studs each extends from one of the contact surfaces. A housing is overmolded onto the boss so that the first contact surface, the second contact surface, and the pair of studs are exposed. A printed circuit board (PCB) is oriented in the housing. A busbar is oriented in the housing in electrical communication with the PCB. The busbar has a conductive tab with an aperture formed therethrough. One of the pair of studs is received within the aperture and the contact tab is in electrical communication with one of the first contact surface and the second contact surface. |
| US08961196B2 |
Electrical connector and a printed circuit board formed in said electrical connector
An electrical connector comprises a metallic housing; and a printed circuit board receiving in the metallic housing and defining a mating portion formed on a front end thereof. The mating portion defines a plurality of conductive pads formed on a top surface thereof, the plurality of conductive pads comprises a plurality of first grounding contacts, a plurality of pairs of differential signal contacts and a plurality of second grounding contacts, each of pair of differential signal contacts are intervened between two adjacent grounding contacts, each of second grounding contact is located in front of the pair of differential signal contacts and electrically and mechanically connected with two front ends of two first grounding contacts. |
| US08961194B2 |
Active HDMI connector with integrated design
An integrated design for an active HDMI connector is presented. The active HDMI connector comprises an active module circuit board, a connector pin assembly, connector pins, an insulation housing, and a metal connector shell. The connector shell partially encloses and partially exposes the active module. The connector pins each have a bent segment embedded in a molding assembly to fixate the pins within the molding assembly. The molding assembly defines a recessed slot for the active module. The active module has a cutout on a side of the module that is aligned with a tab on the connector shell. The tab is bent toward the inside of the connector shell to secure the active module inside the shell. The insulation housing includes pin separators that do not fully surround the connector pins. |
| US08961187B2 |
Phantom
A phantom comprises at least one first means for generating at least one dipole and at least one second means for actuating the first means in a non-electrical manner. |
| US08961185B2 |
System and method for reliably coordinating musculoskeletal and cardiovascular hemodynamics
Systems and methods are disclosed to enable a user to favorably coordinate the timing of musculoskeletal movement and skeletal muscle contraction and relaxation with the cardiac pumping cycle in order to improve perfusion of cardiac and peripheral skeletal muscle and other tissues, increase physiological efficiency, decrease myocardial stress, and enhance individual performance, health and safety during rhythmic physical activity. Additionally, systems and methods are disclosed to enable a user to avoid inadvertent unfavorable coordination of musculoskeletal movement and skeletal muscle contractions and relaxation cycles with the cardiac pumping cycle during physical activity. |
| US08961172B2 |
Self ligating orthodontic bracket having a rotatable member
The present disclosure is directed, at least in part, to a self ligating orthodontic bracket having a rotatable member for securing an archwire within a slot of the bracket. Embodiments of the orthodontic bracket disclosed herein include a bracket body containing the archwire slot as well as tie wings for attaching various orthodontic devices (e.g., elastomeric bands) to the bracket. The rotatable member is rotatable in a first direction (e.g., counter clockwise) relative to a body of the bracket for securing or locking the archwire within the slot, and for rotating in an opposite direction (e.g., a clockwise direction) relative to the bracket body for unsecuring or unlocking the archwire so that it is substantially unrestrained from exiting the slot. |
| US08961171B2 |
Candle having a planar wick and method of and equipment for making same
A candle having a body of a meltable fuel and a planar wick. When lit, the candle provides a unique flame formation, usable in a variety of decorative applications. The wick can be configured to evenly deplete the meltable fuel, while allowing for candles having relatively large and unique body configurations. The body of candle and/or the wick may include scented oil to promote the release of fragrance upon heating. The wick preferably is formed of wood, thereby providing an acoustic contribution to ambiance and improved combustion that generates less soot than conventional cotton wick candles. |
| US08961165B2 |
Dough piece rolled up with a separator sheet, and method and device for preparing these
The present invention leads to a method for preparing a dough piece rolled up with separator sheet, comprising supplying in a transport direction, a dough piece positioned on a separator sheet, the dough piece and the separator sheet having a length and a width, wherein a leading edge of the separator sheet exceeds the dough piece at least a first side, rolling up the at least one side of the dough paper that exceeds the dough piece, thus forming a cylinder of separator sheet, extending in a width direction of the dough piece and rolling up the rest of the separator sheet with the dough piece around the cylinder. The invention further relates to a device for performing the method and a roll formed by the method and/or device. |
| US08961162B2 |
Powder press
A powder press in which seals of cylinder/piston units that can hydraulically activate or apply pressure to additional plates with reference to a die plate, the upper yoke and/or the lower yoke are kept free of powder to the greatest possible extent disposes a cylinder of a cylinder/piston unit facing away from a die plate and/or an additional plate, preferably below the additional plate. |
| US08961158B2 |
Scroll compressor including intermittent back pressure chamber communication
A scroll compressor includes a stationary scroll and a movable scroll. Each scroll has a helical lap provided on one surface of an individual panel. The laps are brought together to form a compression chamber between the laps. A back pressure chamber is formed in a side of the panel of the movable scroll that is opposite of a side where the lap is formed. At least one concave part capable of communicating with the compression chamber is formed in the surface of the panel of the stationary scroll where the lap is formed. At least one throughhole is formed in the panel of the movable scroll. The throughhole is formed through a thickness direction of the panel of the movable scroll and is configured to intermittently cause the concave part and the back pressure chamber to communicate. |
| US08961156B2 |
Fluid conveying device and driving method for fluid conveying device
A fluid conveying device includes: a tube; a cam having protrusions; fingers arranged along the tube between the tube and the cam; a driving rotor which rotates the cam to sequentially push the fingers by the protrusions in a flowing direction of a fluid, repeatedly pressuring and opening of the tube, driving the cam; a detection unit which detects a rotating position of the cam; a control unit which calculates a cam rotation angle along a cumulative ejection volume, using a first approximation formula for an ejection area H where the cumulative ejection volume increases substantially in proportion to the rotation angle of the cam and a second approximation formula for a constant area J where the cumulative ejection volume little increases or decreases even if the cam rotates, driving the driving rotor until a rotating position of the cam corresponding to a designated cumulative ejection volume is reached. |
| US08961155B2 |
Peristaltic linear pump and method of operation
The present disclosure provides a linear peristaltic pump that is capable of dispensing varied amounts of liquid from a tube. The linear peristaltic pump includes an adjustably attached squashing plate that is configured to move lengthwise in the housing of the pump. The amount of liquid dispensed from a tube disposed in the pump varies based on the location of the squash plate in the housing. |
| US08961154B2 |
Electric water pump
An electric water pump apparatus may include a body having a stator chamber and a rotor chamber therein, a stator having a hollow cylindrical shape and being disposed in the stator chamber and generating a magnetic field, wherein the stator fluidly insulates the stator chamber and the rotor chamber, a rotor disposed in the rotor chamber and enclosed by the stator, wherein the rotor is rotated by the magnetic field, and a pump cover connected to the body and forming a volute chamber therein, wherein the volute chamber and the rotor chamber are fluidly-communicated through a connecting hole formed to the body and a coolant is supplied to the rotor chamber through the connection hole, wherein the stator includes a stator groove formed in an inner circumference therein and the stator groove is fluid-connected to the rotor chamber and the volute chamber through the connection hole. |
| US08961153B2 |
Subsea injection system
A subsea, seawater injection system, positionable on a seabed for connection to a subterranean well includes a frame, an electrical submersible pump (ESP) positioned in the frame so as to be oriented substantially parallel to the seabed when positioned thereon, and a filter operationally positioned between a source water intake and the ESP. |
| US08961152B2 |
Portable fan
Portable battery-operated fan comprises a two-part base of which the lower part can be detached to allow the fan to stand on its own or attached to permit the fan to be placed in a cup or bottle holder. A facsimile of an element of sports apparatus such as a golf ball, basketball, or bowling pin is pivotally attached to the fan and provides a mounting place for a DC motor which is driven by a battery in the lower base. A shrouded fan is attached to an end or a side of the sports apparatus facsimile so as to provide cooling air flow on demand. |
| US08961150B2 |
Air exchange fan and circuit board box therefor
An air exchange fan, includes: a frame provided with an opening, a helicoid housing with an air suction inlet disposed in the frame, an air blower disposed in the helicoid housing, and, a circuit board box mounted at the air suction inlet side, wherein a silencing plate is mounted above the outer peripheral of the air suction inlet, the silencing plate has a streamlining structure formed by outwardly expanding from the air suction inlet in an axial direction of a rotation axis of the air blower, the rotation axis of which serving as the center, within a range that is from a tongue of the helicoid housing to a location with a 90 degrees angled from the tongue in a direction opposing to the rotation direction of the air blower, and the silencing plate has a curved chamfered shape which mates with the peripheral shape of the air suction inlet. |
| US08961149B2 |
Method for controlling a regulated-rotation-speed low-pressure centrifugal fan
A method for controlling an automatic stall-prevention of a rotation-speed-regulated centrifugal fan. A control automatics is controlled by an automation system of the process wherein, the control automatics stalling is detected from a function of the electric current, voltage and frequency going to the motor of the centrifugal fan. |
| US08961148B2 |
Unified variable displacement oil pump and vacuum pump
A unified variable displacement pump having a housing which includes a fluid pump and a vacuum pump. A portion of the housing is part of the fluid pump, and a portion of the housing is part of the vacuum pump. A shaft extends through the fluid pump and the vacuum pump. A vacuum pump rotor is formed as part of the shaft, and a vane pump rotor is mounted to the shaft such that when the shaft rotates, the vacuum pump rotor and the vane pump rotor rotate, causing the fluid pump to pump fluid and the vacuum pump to generate a vacuum. The vacuum pump and fluid pump are combined into a single component driven by a single shaft. |
| US08961146B2 |
Electronically controlled liquid dispensing system with modular tubing and power design
Apparatus is provided featuring a switch-mode power supply (SMPS) having a power circuit component in combination with a SMPS controller. The power circuit component may be configured to provide power to a pump that provides fluid from a container to some other device, including an appliance. The SMPS controller may be configured to receive signaling containing information about at least one control parameter selected from a group including a pressure at an outlet of the pump, a fluid level in the container and the temperature of a motor of the pump, and also may be configured to shut off the power provided to the pump based at least partly on the signaling received so that the power circuit component substantially does not draw power and heat up when the pump is shut off. |
| US08961143B2 |
Rotor blade of a wind power plant and method for fabricating a rotor blade of a wind power plant
A rotor blade of a wind power plant in which the rotor blade has a longitudinal extension that extends from a rotor blade root substantially to a rotor blade tip. At least in one region of the rotor blade, an aerodynamic cross-sectional profile is provided, which has a leading edge (nose) and a trailing edge, which are connected via a suction side and a pressure side of the cross-sectional profile. The rotor blade is subdivided at least in a longitudinally extended section into a front rotor blade section with the leading edge and a rear rotor blade section with the trailing edge. The rear region of the front rotor blade section and the adjacent front region of the rear rotor blade section are connected through an I-beam. |
| US08961142B2 |
Protected wind turbine blade, a method of manufacturing it and a wind turbine
A protected turbine blade includes a first turbine blade shell and a second turbine blade shell, being fiber-reinforced, are connected by a cured resin and provided with a protective cover at a leading edge. The protective cover is a composite comprising a layer of UV-resistant thermoplastic material and a layer of cured epoxy resin, the UV-resistant thermoplastic material having the following properties a surface free energy of less than 35 mJ/m2, and a erosion resistance of the thermoplastic material larger than the erosion resistance of the cured resin connecting the turbine blade shells. The layer of cured epoxy-resin covers the cured resin over at least part of the length of the distal half of the turbine blade, and is bonded to said turbine blade. A method of manufacturing such a turbine blade, and to a turbine having such turbine blades is also provided. |
| US08961139B2 |
Aircraft propeller balancing system
An aircraft system/method for propeller balancing. The system includes an inboard driver with a first and second inboard electromagnetic coil, the inboard driver and the first counterweight balancing rotor and the second counterweight balancing rotor centered around the aircraft propeller shaft rotating machine member with the first inboard electromagnetic coil proximate the first inboard magnets of the first counterweight balancing rotor, with the inboard electromagnetic coil driver proximate the rotation axis of the aircraft propeller shaft rotating machine member and the first counterweight balancing rotor outboard of the inboard electromagnetic coil driver with the first inboard electromagnetic coil generating a electromagnetic field to electromagnetically step the first inboard magnets of the at least first counterweight balancing rotor to electromagnetically actuate rotational movement of the first counterweight balancing rotor around the rotating machine member and relative to the inboard electromagnetic coil driver to a first rotor held balancing position. |
| US08961137B2 |
Turbine wheel for a turbine engine
A turbine wheel for a turbine engine, comprising a disk carrying blades, each having a platform carrying an airfoil and connected by a tang to a root, and sealing and damping sheets housed in the inter-tang spaces, the platforms including projections on their radially internal faces against which the sheets bear radially in operation, in order to define radial clearance and create at least one space between the sheets and the platforms, and the sheets including holes for feeding air to the or each space. |
| US08961135B2 |
Mateface gap configuration for gas turbine engine
In a gas turbine engine, adjoining pairs of airfoil structures include airfoils mounted to respective platforms. The platforms have side edges defining matefaces that form a mateface gap extending from an upstream edge of the platforms to a downstream edge of the platforms. A flow field of working gas adjacent to endwalls of the platform comprises streamlines extending generally transverse to the axial direction from a first airfoil toward an adjacent second airfoil. To achieve improved aerodynamic performance, the mateface gap has portions oriented transverse to the streamlines and oriented aligned with the streamlines. A step in elevation of the side edges at the transverse portion can include injected cooling flow in a direction that enhances attachment of the flow at a downstream side. |
| US08961133B2 |
Gas turbine engine and cooled airfoil
An cooled airfoil for a gas turbine engine is disclosed. The airfoil includes an outer wall having a plurality cooling air exit openings and an inner wall having plurality of cooling air inlet openings. A plurality of flow migration dams extend between the inner wall and the outer wall to form a plurality of cooling passages and prevent cooling air from moving radially outward past the migration dams. |
| US08961132B2 |
Secondary flow arrangement for slotted rotor
A rotor for a gas turbine engine includes a plurality of blades which extend from a rotor disk and at least one spacer adjacent to the plurality of blades. A flow passage is defined between the rotor disk and the blades and spacer. A plurality of inlets are formed within the spacer to pump air into the flow passage. |
| US08961123B2 |
Centrifugal fan
A centrifugal fan is provided. The centrifugal fan includes a housing, a driving device, and blades. The housing includes a circular base and at least two struts. Each of the struts physically connects the circular base and the remainder of the housing, and each of the struts includes two peripheral edges. The driving device is placed on the circular base. Each of the blades has an arc shape and the blades are located in the housing. The driving device rotates the blades. The two peripheral edges of each of the struts form orthogonal curves with the blades. |
| US08961122B2 |
Turbine housing for turbocharger
A turbine housing (3) applied to a turbine (2) incorporated in a turbocharger (1) includes a main body (10) in which a wheel housing chamber (13) housing a turbine wheel (4) and an exhaust passage (15) are provided. The exhaust passage (15) has one end communicating with an outlet of the wheel housing chamber (13) and the other end providing an exhaust port (15a). The main body (10) is provided with an upstream-side inner pipe (20) and a downstream-side inner pipe (21) therein. The upstream-side inner pipe has a shroud portion (20) which is located in the wheel housing chamber (13) and extends along edges of turbine blades (5) of the turbine wheel (4). The downstream-side inner pipe (21) is arranged in the exhaust passage (15) so as to be located on a downstream side of the upstream-side inner pipe (20). A thickness (t2) of the downstream-side inner pipe (21) is thinner than a thickness (t1) of the upstream-side inner pipe (20). |
| US08961120B2 |
System and method of expanding a fluid in a hermetically-sealed casing
An expander-generator is disclosed. The expander-generator is disposed within a hermetically-sealed housing and includes a high-pressure expander stage and a low-pressure expander stage. A working fluid, such as ammonia, is introduced into the high and low pressure expander stages and expanded therein so as to provide rotational torque to a shaft. A generator, such as a motor, pump, or compressor, may be coupled to a free end of the shaft such that rotation of the shaft will provide useful work for the generator. |
| US08961116B2 |
Exhaust plenum for gas turbine
An exhaust plenum for connection to an exhaust outlet portion of a gas turbine for receiving turbine exhaust gas. The exhaust plenum includes a first wall. The first wall includes a seal attachment component in thermal contact with an exterior shell of the first wall and is adapted for attaching an annular flex seal to the first wall. The seal attachment component extends generally around a perimeter of the inlet of the exhaust plenum, and is thermally insulated from an interior space of the exhaust plenum. |
| US08961115B2 |
Clearance control for gas turbine engine seal
A gas turbine engine section has a rotor carrying a plurality of blades. The blades have airfoils which define a radially outer tip. A blade outer air seal is positioned radially outwardly of the tips of the blades. The blade outer air seal is provided by at least a plurality of circumferentially spaced segments, which slide circumferentially relative to each other to adjust an inner diameter of an inner surface of the blade outer air seal segments. An actuator actuates the blade outer air seal segments to slide towards each other to control a clearance between the inner periphery of the blade outer air seal segments and the radially outer tip of the blade airfoils. A gas turbine engine is also disclosed. |
| US08961113B2 |
Turbomachine geared architecture support assembly
An example turbomachine geared architecture support assembly includes a subpart having a more compliant portion and a less compliant portion. The less compliant portion includes a stop that limits axial movement of a geared architecture within a turbomachine. |
| US08961112B2 |
Torque frame bushing arrangement for gas turbine engine fan drive gear system
A fan drive gear system for a gas turbine engine includes a carrier that supports circumferentially arranged gears. A torque frame has circumferentially arranged fingers with each finger including a bore having a bore axis. A bushing is arranged in each bore and provides an aperture. At least one bushing has a bushing axis offset from the bore axis. A pin is disposed in the aperture and secures the carrier to the torque frame. |
| US08961110B2 |
Filtering of debris in wind turbines
A wind turbine is disclosed, the wind turbine comprising a nacelle including at least one of a debris-generating device, an inlet for air or an outlet for air. Following this invention, the wind turbine further comprises at least one electro-static filter arranged to filter at least one of the debris coming from the debris-generating device, the air coming into the nacelle through the inlet or the air coming out of the nacelle through the outlet. |
| US08961106B2 |
Turbomolecular pump and connector device therefor
A connector device for coupling a turbomolecular pump to an apparatus to be pumped. The connector device can suppress transmission of vibrations of relatively low frequencies. The pump has a rotor, a casing accommodating the rotor therein, and an intake port and an outlet port formed in the casing. The pump operates to suck gas from the intake port and to expel the gas from the outlet port by rotating the rotor within the casing at high speed. The connecting device has a connecting exhaust tube for connecting the intake port of the turbomolecular pump with the outlet port of the apparatus (such as a vacuum vessel) to be pumped. An annular weight is disposed around the outer periphery of the connecting exhaust tube. A viscoelastic member is interposed between the connecting exhaust tube and the weight to form a vibration absorber. |
| US08961100B2 |
Valve for controlling flow of a turbomachine fluid
An exemplary valve device for controlling flow of a turbomachine fluid includes a housing and a flow control assembly within the housing. The housing has a first inlet, a second inlet, and an outlet. Movement of the housing to a first orientation causes the flow control assembly to move to a first position to restrict flow of a turbomachine fluid into the housing through the second inlet. Movement of the housing to a second orientation causes the flow control assembly to move to a second position to restrict flow of the turbomachine fluid into the housing through the first inlet. |
| US08961099B2 |
Dual arm vacuum robot with common drive pulley
A robot for use in semiconductor vacuum chambers is disclosed. The robot may include two independently-driven arms configured for wafer handling. The robot may include three motors or drive systems and a tri-axial seal to realize independent extension/retraction of each arm and overall simultaneous rotation of the arm assembly. The robot may provide enhanced throughput efficiency over other robot designs. |
| US08961092B2 |
Device for retaining an attached part on a carrier part and arrangement having such a device and having an attached part
A device for retaining an attached part on a carrier part, including a clip part and an unlocking part displaceably supported in the clip part. In a release position of the unlocking part, latching legs of the clip part engage behind the carrier part while, in a dismantling position of the unlocking part, the latching legs are not engaged with the carrier part so that the attached part can be removed from the carrier part. |
| US08961086B2 |
Fastener and method of installing same
A fastener comprises a body having an enlarged head at a first end, a tapered ramp at a second end, a cylindrical shank disposed between the enlarged head and the tapered ramp, internal threads, and a cylindrical passage formed through the body between the first and second ends. The fastener further includes a generally cylindrical corebolt having first and second threaded sections separated by a third non-threaded section, the corebolt disposed within the passage of the body and a sleeve having a generally cylindrical passage therethrough and movably disposed over a portion of the corebolt. A nut is in threaded engagement with the corebolt and is disposed adjacent an end of the sleeve. An interface between the corebolt and the nut is configured to resist relative rotation of the nut with respect to the corebolt until the sleeve is in abutment with a workpiece. |
| US08961085B2 |
Transport vehicle for rotor blades and/or tower segments of wind power plants and transport rack for a transport vehicle
There is provided a transport vehicle for transporting wind power installation rotor blades and/or pylon segments. The transport vehicle has a transport support structure having a main frame, a receiving frame fixedly connected to the main frame at a first angle, and a rotary displacement unit which is fixed with one end to the receiving frame and which at its second end has a blade adaptor for receiving a rotor blade or a pylon segment. The main frame spans a main plane. The rotary displacement unit has at least one first rotary mounting, wherein there is provided a second angle between the second rotary plane of the second rotary mounting. |
| US08961084B1 |
Auto-rack railroad car vehicle restraint apparatus
A vehicle restraint system for an auto-rack railroad car which includes an active chock and an anchor chock configured to co-act to secure a vehicle in the auto-rack railroad car. In various embodiments, each chock has a chock body including a substantially diamond shaped elongated tube which includes four integrally connected elongated walls. In various embodiments, for each chock, various components of that chock extend substantially along longitudinal axis that lie in the same or substantially the same vertical plane as the apex and trough of the substantially diamond shaped elongated tube of the chock body. The active and anchor chocks: (a) have a lower height than known commercially available vehicle restraints; (b) have a smaller width than known commercially available vehicle restraints; (c) position the strap and the torque tube closer to the tire of the wheel than any known commercially available vehicle restraints; (d) take up a smaller area of each safe zone adjacent to the wheel than known commercially available vehicle restraints; (e) provide a greater strength to size ratio than known commercially available vehicle restraints; and (f) are easy to operate, install, and remove. |
| US08961083B2 |
System and method for restraining a vehicle with a collision release mechanism
A vehicle restraint system includes a strap assembly configured to be positioned on a portion of a tire of a vehicle to secure the vehicle to a deck of a transport. The strap assembly is also configured to be coupled to the deck of the transport on a first side of the tire of the vehicle. The system also includes a mandrel assembly operable to be coupled to the strap assembly on a second side of the tire of the vehicle, opposite the first side. The system further includes a winch assembly configured to be coupled to the deck of the transport and the mandrel assembly on the second side of the tire of the vehicle, the winch assembly configured to rotate the mandrel assembly to produce a tightening force to tighten the strap assembly around the portion of the tire. The system still further includes a release mechanism disposed between the winch assembly and the mandrel assembly and configured to create a coupling between the winch assembly and the mandrel assembly in a manner that transmits the tightening force from the winch assembly to the mandrel assembly. The release mechanism is configured to release the coupling between the winch assembly and the mandrel assembly when a force greater than or equal to a predetermined force is produced against the release mechanism. |
| US08961081B2 |
Apparatus for chamfering and/or deburring of gears
Gear processing machine (4), such as a gear cutting or grinding machine, wherein a chamfering and/or deburring apparatus (2) and auxiliary spindle (10) are included on the same machine. A transfer mechanism (8) loads, unloads and transfers workpieces between a machining spindle (6) and the auxiliary spindle (10) thereby enabling simultaneous cutting and chamfering and/or deburring processes to be carried out. Via the auxiliary spindle, completed workpieces may be removed from the machine and blank workpieces may be loaded into the machine while another gear is being processed on the machine spindle thereby enhancing machine output and creating a more efficient operation. |
| US08961080B2 |
Boring tool
Provided is a boring tool which not only is lightweight but also has both abrasion resistance and high stiffness. More specifically, provided is a boring tool wherein a shaft-like tool body (10) is equipped with cutting bits, and wherein the tool body (10) makes a reciprocating motion, thereby reaming a hole provided to a workpiece to be machined. The tool body (10) is provided with a substrate (11) formed by a carbon fiber reinforced composite material, a hard plating layer (13) consisting of hard plating applied to the surface (10b) of the tool body (10), and a backing layer (12) which is applied between the substrate (11) and the hard plating layer (13) and serves to improve the wettability of the hard plating layer (13). |
| US08961076B2 |
Cutting insert, cutting tool, and method of manufacturing machined product using the same
A cutting insert of the present invention includes an upper surface; a lower surface; a side surface; a cutting edge which is located along an intersection of the upper surface and the side surface, and comprises a major cutting edge, a flat cutting edge, and a minor cutting edge located between the major cutting edge and the flat cutting edge; and a land part located along the cutting edge on the upper surface. The land part includes a minor cutting edge land portion located correspondingly to the minor cutting edge. The minor cutting edge land portion is inclined downward toward a central part of the upper surface. The present invention also provides a cutting tool including the cutting insert, and a method of manufacturing a machined product by using the cutting tool. |
| US08961071B2 |
Systems and methods for protecting subsea pipeline from excessive stress or fatigue loading
Disclosed are systems and methods for protecting subsea pipeline from damage caused by excessive stress or fatigue loading caused by geo-hazards, and environmental and operating loads. The systems and methods utilize lifting buoyancy modules capable of being attached to a section of subsea pipeline to lift the subsea pipeline off the seabed to a predetermined height over a predetermined length upon being activated by a planned or unplanned triggering event. |
| US08961070B1 |
Subsea pipe connection system and process
An apparatus for connecting a hub of a first pipe to a hub of a second pipe in a subsea environment includes a frame suitable for receiving the hub of the second pipe, a post extending outwardly of the frame, a landing structure slidably positioned on the post, and an actuator for moving the landing structure along the post such that the hub of the first pipe is juxtaposed against the hub of the second pipe. The landing structure includes a receptacle formed thereon. This receptacle is suitable for receiving a slotted portion of an arm extending from a trunnion extending around the first pipe such that the first pipe can pivot from a generally vertical orientation to a generally horizontal orientation. A clamp can extend against the hubs of the first and second pipes so as to join the pipes together. |
| US08961068B2 |
Device, system, and method of irrigation
An irrigation system for irrigating a plant having a root comprises: a valve to begin irrigation from a water source at a first time-point; a moisture sensor to sense moisture at a second, subsequent, time-point, said moisture sensor being located underground at an insertion depth between ground surface and a maximum depth of the root; a water drainage speed calculator to calculate a water drainage speed based on the first time-point, the second time-point, and the insertion depth of the moisture sensor; and a target drainage time calculator to calculate a remaining time for irrigation, based on the calculated water drainage speed and further based on a difference between the insertion depth and the maximum depth of the root. |
| US08961061B2 |
Cable connection systems and methods
A system for connecting two wire ropes includes first and second wire rope connectors, a swivel, and first and second connecting cables. The first wire rope connector includes a base defining a chamber for receiving an end of a first wire rope, a plug, and a cap that secures to the base to compress the plug and first wire rope end within the chamber. Similarly, the second wire rope connector includes a base defining a chamber for receiving an end of a second wire rope, a plug, and a cap that secures to the base to compress the plug and second wire rope end within the chamber. The swivel includes a first portion rotationally coupled to a second portion. The first connecting cable is coupled between the first wire rope connector and the first portion of the swivel, and the second connecting cable is coupled between the second wire rope connector and the second portion of the swivel. |
| US08961060B2 |
Corner assembly
A corner piece is provided for interconnecting frame members. The corner piece includes a first plate member defining an inner face, an opposite outer face, a first side face, an opposite second side face, and an end face. The first plate member including a bolt-receiving bore therethrough. A second plate member defines an inner face contiguous with the inner face of the first plate member, an outer face, a first side face, an opposite second side face, and an end face. The second plate member includes a bolt-receiving bore extending between the inner face and the outer face thereof along a first axis generally parallel to the inner face of the first plate member. |
| US08961053B1 |
Lipstick blotting system
The present invention features a lipstick blotting system for use after lipstick application featuring a tubular stationary base with a first guide rod. The system features a rotating base with a threaded rod. The stationary base is located inside the rotating base. The system features a carrier with an internally threaded tube. The carrier features a first guide aperture. The carrier is placed on the rotating base via the internally threaded tube placed onto the threaded rod. The carrier is inhibited from rotation via the first guide rod slid through the first guide aperture. The system features a linear blotter located on a carrier anterior surface. The blotter features a linear channel for placing over the tube. The system features a solution located in the rotating base and a cap adapted to attach and seal to a stationary base anterior end. |
| US08961050B2 |
Filtered fluid pump dispenser with direct application mode
A filtered fluid pump spray dispenser and applicator assembly includes a container having a pump spray mechanism connected to a fluid feed tube immersed in a fluid to be dispensed. The open end of the fluid feed tube is covered by a porous and permeable filter, which filters particulate matter from the fluid during spray mode fluid dispensing. The pump mechanism and fluid feed tube may be removed, and fluid contained in the filter applied directly to a surface in direct application mode fluid dispensing. |
| US08961048B2 |
Dispenser for a composition in stick form
An oval dispenser for stick material suitable for being filled through its base comprises a skeletal platform (30) having a threaded hub (32), a rim wall (31), a circular wall intermediate between the hub and the rim defining a filling zone, and a rotor wheel (3) having a hollow boss (13) that defines with the filling ring (34) a continuous passage for stick material to be charged into the dispenser interior. |
| US08961046B2 |
Paper discharge device and image forming apparatus having the same
A paper discharge device and an image forming apparatus include a holding unit 101 which is rotatably mounted to a frame and is configured to hold a recording medium P discharged from an image forming unit 110 in a rolled state. The paper discharge device 100 performs a holding operation before a discharge operation. When the recording medium P is discharged, the paper discharge device 100 allows the holding unit 101 to be rotated to reach the discharge position so that the recording medium P is discharged. When the recording medium P is collected, the paper discharge device 100 allows the recording medium P to be held again within the holding unit 101, and then allows the holding unit 101 to be rotated to reach the collecting position. |
| US08961039B2 |
Optical-electric conversion connector
An optical-electric conversion connector configured to be connected to a mating connector. The optical-electric conversion connector includes an optical semiconductor element for converting between an optical signal and an electrical signal; a supporting member for supporting the optical semiconductor element; a contact member connected to the optical semiconductor element for contacting with a mating contact member of the mating connector; a first resin member formed of a transparent resin for integrally holding the optical semiconductor element, the supporting member, and the contact member, and a second resin member mounted on an outer surface of the first resin member. The first resin member is arranged to seal at least the optical semiconductor element. A method of producing the optical-electric conversion connector includes an element arrangement step, a conductive member connecting step, a first resin molding step, and a second resin molding step. |
| US08961038B2 |
Integrated and sealed opto-electronic device assembly
An opto-electronic device includes an optical engine module and an electrical socket. The optical engine module includes an optical engine, an optical transmission interface for coupling with an optical device and an electrical transmission interface, the electrical transmission interface having electrical pads. The electrical socket includes a plurality of BGA terminals, each terminal having a module-connecting end and a board-connecting end. The electrical transmission interface is removeably assembled in the electrical socket and the electrical pads contact the module-connecting ends of the electrical socket. |
| US08961036B2 |
Ferrule assembly
A method for preparing a ferrule assembly avoids polishing while providing adequate control over fiber end protrusion and co-planarity. A distal end of the fiber is prepared before securing the fiber in a ferrule, and before or after inserting the fiber into the ferrule. The prepared fiber is manipulated to provide a desired spatial relationship between the fiber end and the ferrule's end face, and then secured to maintain the desired spatial relationship. Preferably, the fiber end is prepared using a laser cleaving technique to provide a suitable end without abrasive polishing. An interferometer may be used to obtain measurements, during manipulation of the prepared fiber within the ferrule, that indicate whether the prepared fiber is satisfactorily positioned. In accordance with other aspects of the invention, a ferrule assembly prepared in accordance with the method, and a connector or other optical package including such a ferrule assembly are provided. |
| US08961035B2 |
Architecture for a fiber optic network
The present disclosure relates to a fiber optic network architecture that uses outside plant fan-out devices to distribute optical signals between fiber distribution hubs and multi-service terminals. The network architecture can also include collector boxes positioned at selected locations of the network architecture. Additionally, patching systems can be used in facilitating upgrading the capacity of the fiber optic network. |
| US08961029B2 |
Roller thrust bearing
Construction of a roller thrust bearing is achieved wherein it is possible to keep a thrust race from coming apart from a cage without wear or cracking occurring in a cage element and without impact occurring between the thrust race and cage even when used in an application wherein a rotating section rotates at high speed, or when used in an application wherein relative displacement between members of a rotating section is large. The thickness of metal plate of a first cage element 35 is preferably ⅚ the thickness of metal plate of a second cage element 36 or less. Alternatively, the thickness of metal plate of a second cage element 56 is preferably ⅚ the thickness of metal plate of a first cage element 55 or less. |
| US08961028B2 |
Bearing assembly
A bearing assembly includes a hub element or housing element which has an accommodating bore for at least one rolling-element bearing, the rolling-element bearing being disposed with its outer ring in a press-fit arrangement in the accommodating bore, and the outer ring having at least one first axial region along at least one raceway of the outer ring and at least one second axial region extending outside the raceway. To ensure a proper fit of the bearing ring in the hub or housing element over a wide range of operating temperatures, the receiving bore and the outer circumference of the outer ring are configured such that at the ambient temperature the radial clamping force between accommodating bore and outer ring in the first region is smaller than in the second region. |
| US08961026B2 |
Flanged bearing ring for a motor vehicle wheel bearing unit
A flanged bearing ring is made up of two different materials joined together as a single piece, namely a radially inner annular insert and a flanged, radially outer lightweight body formed around the insert. The insert forms one or more raceways and is made of a hard material, such as bearing steel. The outer body is made of a lightweight material, such as aluminium alloy, with a higher thermal expansion coefficient higher than that of the hard material which the inner insert is made of. A relief formed by the insert extends into a groove of the outer body. Another relief, formed by the outer body, extends into a further groove of the insert. These reliefs and grooves interlock the insert and the outer body together against relative movement under all temperature conditions. |
| US08961023B2 |
Ball bearing retainer and ball bearing
A ball bearing retainer includes two annular members that face each other in an axial direction. The two annular members have opposed surfaces each including hemispherical pockets that are formed at a plurality of positions in a circumferential direction and configured to receive balls. The opposed surfaces are snap-fitted to each other so as to couple the two annular members to each other with coupling portions provided at both circumferential end portions of each of the hemispherical pockets Inner peripheral surfaces of the hemispherical pockets of the two annular members and the opposed surfaces of the two annular members have recessed grooves that are opened by extending from radially inner surfaces of the two annular members and reaching radially outer surfaces of the two annular members. |
| US08961019B2 |
Flow control through thrust bearing assembly
A bearing assembly comprising a frame; a rotating disc disposed in the frame, the rotating disc comprising a first set of inserts; and a fixed disc disposed in the frame, the fixed disc comprising a second set of inserts, the second set of inserts configured to interact with the first set of inserts, and a lip disposed adjacent the second set of inserts. Also, a bearing assembly comprising a frame; a rotating disc disposed in the frame, the rotating disc comprising a first set of inserts and at least one groove disposed axially above at least one of the inserts; and a fixed disc disposed in the frame, the fixed disc comprising a second set of inserts, the second set of inserts configured to interact with the first set of inserts. |
| US08961013B2 |
Rigid self-supporting collapsible stackable reusable bag
A self-supporting, rigid, and collapsible reusable bag made from flexible material and having a bottom, two first sidewalls, two second sidewalls, a top opening, and rigid insert. A rigid full-wall board is embedded in each of the two first sidewalls. A rigid insert comprised of at least one pair of sidewalls and bottom with substantially similar dimensions to the second sidewalls and bottom of the bag are placed in the interior and in frictional contact with the second sidewalls and bottom of the bag. The rigid insert sidewalls are held in place with securing devices located on the interior upper corners of the sidewalls of the bag. The bag can be collapsed by moving the rigid insert away from the second sidewalls and bottom to allow the second sidewalls to fold either inward or outward. A full-wall pocket is provided for each first sidewall to receive the full-wall board. |
| US08961012B2 |
Bag with handle
A bag has a front panel, a back panel, and a gusset panel. Either or both of the front panel and the gusset panel at one side has an extension, and either or both of the back panel and the gusset panel at the other side has an extension. The extensions are welded together at outer margins thereof so that the width of the combined extensions is greater than the width of the gusset panel. The extensions are formed with carrying apertures. |
| US08961011B2 |
Mobile radiography unit having multiple monitors
A mobile radiography apparatus has a moveable (e.g., wheeled) transport frame and an adjustable column mounted at the frame. A boom apparatus supported by the adjustable column can support an x-ray source and can be coupled to a second display (also adjustably mounted). The second display and a first display can each be configured to control the mobile radiography apparatus and display items such as but not limited to (a) obtained images and/or related data or (b) a control panel to allow functions such as generating, storing, transmitting, modifying, and printing of the obtained images. |
| US08961010B2 |
C-arm x-ray system and method of compensation for C-arm deformations and oscillations
An x-ray system having a C-arm 1 and an associated method are provided. The x-ray system includes at least one adjustment unit for at least one component of the x-ray system that is actively connected to the C-arm. The at least one adjustment unit compensates for a spatial change in position of the component caused by deformation and/or oscillation of the C-arm. |
| US08961009B2 |
X-ray apparatus and method for controlling the movement of an x-ray apparatus
An X-ray apparatus is provided. The Xpray apparatus has a C-arm on which an X-ray source and an X-ray detector can be mounted opposite one another, at least one actuator for positioning the C-arm relative to a patient table, and a control device for controlling the actuator. The X-ray apparatus includes at least one sensor which detects a deformation of the C-arm at a first position of the C-arm and converts it into an output signal, the deformation of the C-arm being influenceable by a force exerted by an operator and applied directly or indirectly at a second position on the C-arm. The control device influences the actuator as a function of the output signal of the sensor. A method for controlling the movement of an X-ray apparatus is also described. |
| US08961008B2 |
Modular dual-compartment temperature transmitter
A temperature transmitter includes a dual-compartment housing and a head-mount temperature transmitter electronics module. The dual-compartment housing has a first compartment and a second compartment. The first compartment is configured to receive field wiring at a terminal block through at least one conduit. The first and second compartments are separated except for an electrical feedthrough therebetween. A head-mount temperature transmitter electronics module is disposed in the second compartment and is operably coupled to the terminal block in the first compartment. |
| US08961003B2 |
Timepiece balance spring
A timepiece escape mechanism sub-assembly includes at least one bar and at least one balance spring. The outer end of the balance spring is secured to a balance spring stud. The balance spring and the balance spring stud associated therewith form a single-piece assembly with the bar. |
| US08961000B2 |
Stirring system with interspaced stirring elements and baffles, and method for homogenizing glass melts
A stirring system for molten glass having a stirring vessel and a stirrer; and a method for homogenizing glass melts. The stirrer has a shaft and at least one stirring element, and the stirring vessel has at least two baffles extending from an inner circumferential surface. The stirring element and baffles are formed in such a way that insertion of the stirrer into the stirring vessel requires at least one translatory movement of the stirrer in relation to the stirring vessel, at least one subsequent or simultaneous relative rotation of the stirrer in relation to the stirring vessel, and a further translatory movement of the stirrer in relation to the stirring vessel. In an operating state, the stirrer is rotatable in the stirring vessel. |
| US08960999B1 |
System for mixing beverages and method of doing the same
A beverage mixing system includes a housing, a sealing feature, a locking feature, and an agitator. The housing has an opening separating inner and outer surfaces and a boss that extends through the housing such that part of the outer surface forms an inner bore of the boss having a terminus pointing toward the opening. The agitator has a base, a shaft, and a mixing element coupled to the base such that the base, in cooperation with the sealing feature, circumferentially seals the opening of the housing to form a cavity defined by the inner surface. The shaft passes through the inner bore. The locking feature when engaged permits independent or simultaneous translational and rotational movement of the shaft while an area between the terminus of the boss and the shaft remains mechanically sealed during the movement against liquid or powder encroachment into a clean area of the inner bore. |
| US08960995B2 |
Mixer/feeder apparatus and a device for monitoring operation of the mixer/feeder apparatus
A mixer/feeder wagon (1) for mixing and dispensing batches of animal feed comprises a device (50) for monitoring operation of the mixer/feeder wagon (1) and for determining instants during a mixing cycle during which ingredients of the animal feed are to be loaded into the mixer/feeder wagon (1). The mixer/feeder wagon (1) comprises a mixing compartment (14) within which a paddle mixer (17) is rotatable for mixing the ingredients of the batch of animal feed therein. Load sensors (9) produce signals indicative of the current weight of the ingredients in the mixing compartment (14) which are read by a microprocessor (55) of the device (50). A proximity sensor (38) counts the number of revolutions of the paddle mixer 17. Particulars of the ingredients of the batch of animal feed together with the weights of the respective ingredients are stored in a RAM (56) in the device (50) as well as the instants during a mixing cycle at which the respective ingredients are to be loaded into the mixing compartment (14) based on the count of revolutions of the paddle mixer (17) from the commencement of the mixing cycle. The microprocessor (55) in response to signals from the proximity sensor (38) outputs a signal to activate a siren (67) to indicate when the next ingredient is to be loaded into the mixing compartment (14). The identities of the respective ingredients as they are to be loaded into the mixing compartment (14) are displayed on a visual display screen (54) together with the weights thereof. |
| US08960984B2 |
Backlight unit including COB type light emitting diode module
A backlight unit (BLU) is disclosed. The BLU may include a light emitting diode (LED) module including at least one LED chip mounted on a substrate in a chip-on-board (COB) type, and a light guide panel including an incidence surface configured to receive light emitted from an emission surface of the LED chip and to include at least one insertion recess disposed corresponding to the LED chip, such that the LED chip is bonded to the LED module to be inserted in the insertion recess. |
| US08960978B2 |
Vehicular lamp
A vehicular headlamp (100) including a first lamp unit (10) provided with a first LED (11) and a first translucent member (13) internally reflecting light from the first LED (11) twice and then emitting the reflected light, a second lamp unit (20) provided with a second LED (21) and a second translucent member (23) internally reflecting light from the second LED (21) twice and then emitting the reflected light, and a third lamp unit (30) provided with a third LED (31) and a third translucent member (33) internally reflecting light from the third LED (31) twice and then emitting the reflected light. The first translucent member (13), the second translucent member (23), and the third translucent member (33) are coupled together at their ends in the vehicle width direction. |
| US08960977B2 |
Illuminating device
Disclosed is an illuminating device which comprises a light guiding unit comprising a protrusion optical pattern forming a gap with an adjacent layer, at least one light emitting unit passing through the light guiding unit, and a resin layer formed on the light guiding unit and the at least one light emitting unit, so it is possible to obtain an effect that the shapes of light change depending on the viewing angle when viewing the light source by producing various protrusion optical patterns, an effect that the whole thickness can be reduced, and an effect that the degree of design freedom can be enhanced when designing products thanks to an enhanced flexibility. |
| US08960974B2 |
Light source device
Included are a plurality of cylindrical holders having holes into which laser modules are fitted and fixed, respectively; a plate-like base that has a first surface, a second surface opposite to the first surface, and a plurality of through holes through which the laser beams from the plurality of laser modules fixed to the holder pass, the holders abutting against the first surface so as to connect the holes thereof to the through holes of the base, the second surface of the base being arranged with a plurality of lenses corresponding to the through holes; and adhesives applied to outer corners of abutment portions, at which the base and the LD holders abut against each other, for fixing the base and the LD holders to each other. |
| US08960973B1 |
Splice enclosure for luminaires
Splice enclosures for housing wire splice connections in a luminaire are described herein. The splice enclosures may each include a cover that includes one or more tabs extending substantially orthogonal from the cover, and a bottom housing (or body) having a base and two side walls and two end walls. Moreover, at least one of the side walls includes an outer surface having one or more protrusions for engaging the tab(s) of the cover. Additionally, at least one of the end walls includes a wire routing aperture. In some embodiments of the invention the cover may include at least one notched protrusion that aligns with the wire routing aperture to retain wires exiting an end wall of the splice enclosure. |
| US08960972B2 |
Lighting system with thermal management system
Lighting systems having unique configurations are provided. For instance, the lighting system may include a light source, a thermal management system and driver electronics, each contained within a housing structure. The light source is configured to provide illumination visible through an opening in the housing structure. The thermal management system is configured to provide an air flow, such as a unidirectional air flow, through the housing structure in order to cool the light source. The driver electronics are configured to provide power to each of the light source and the thermal management system. |
| US08960969B2 |
Semiconductor structure with waveguide
A light-emitting diode (LED) apparatus comprises a substrate, a first layer formed over at least a portion of the substrate, an active layer formed over at least a portion of the first layer, a second layer formed over at least a portion of the active layer, and at least one waveguide formed below the substrate. A first portion of light from the LED is directed in a first direction and a second portion of light from the LED is directed in a second direction via the waveguide, the second direction being different than the first direction. The apparatus may further comprise a shutter formed at least one of above and below the waveguide, the shutter being adjustable to control an amount of light entering or exiting the waveguide. |
| US08960968B2 |
Method of manufacturing an improved optical layer for a light emitting device with surface NANO-micro texturation based on coherent electromagnetic radiation speckle lithography
An object of the present invention is to provide a cheap, rapid, controlled, reproducible and polyvalent method for manufacturing a light emitting device with an internal source of light capable of achieving an enhancement in extraction efficiency. The invention proposes a method for manufacturing an optical layer for a light emitting device having an internal source of light and an optical layer separating the internal source of light and an external medium of light diffusion, wherein the method comprises the use of coherent electromagnetic radiation speckle lithography, such as laser speckle lithography, to make a nano/micro texturation on at least one surface of the optical layer. |
| US08960966B2 |
Backlight unit
The present invention relates to a backlight unit having a reflective portion, including a light source module for emitting a light, a first reflective portion arranged spaced a first distance away from one side of the light source module to have an open region, and a second reflective portion arranged spaced a second distance which is greater than the first distance away from the other side of the light source module to have at least a portion with a sloped surface for reflecting the light toward the open region of the first reflective portion. |
| US08960962B2 |
Ceiling mount fixture
A ceiling mount lighting fixture includes a channel, a channel cover, and a light source including a plurality of light-emitting diodes. The channel cover includes two sides that intersect in a V-shaped base, with light-emitting diodes mounted on each side. The light-emitting diodes emit light at cone angles that overlap at the base of the channel cover. The fixture may include a diffuser and an end cap positioned on each end of the channel, each end cap including a groove. A plurality of strips may be located on the diffuser, each strip moveable from a first position on the diffuser a distance from the end caps to a second position in which the strip engages the groove on one of the end caps, thereby serving as a light trap to block light from exiting gaps between the diffuser and end caps. |
| US08960957B2 |
LED lamp having a lens mounted through connection rods and a hook
An LED lamp is provided. The LED lamp includes a heat radiation member having a cavity therein; an LED module disposed in the cavity; a mounting frame disposed in the cavity and being above the LED module; and a lens mounted on the mounting frame. |
| US08960951B1 |
LED lamp retrofit system, kit, and method
An LED lamp retrofit system, kit, and method is presently disclosed. The LED retrofit system comprises at least one longitudinally extending LED lamp having a length substantially greater than a width and open longitudinal ends. A first LED lamp support rail holds and covers a first open longitudinal end of each of the at least one longitudinally extending LED lamps and is configured to electrically connect each of the at least one longitudinally extending LED lamps to a power source. A second LED lamp support rail holds and covers a second open longitudinal end of each of the at least one longitudinally extending LED lamps held with the first LED lamp support rail. A system holder on each of the first and second LED lamp support rails is configured and disposed to hold the retrofit system to a portion of a lamp fixture being retrofitted. |
| US08960949B2 |
Multi-mode portable illumination device
A multi-mode portable illumination device includes a switch structure featuring a substantially planar member and a mechanical switch which requires a relatively small amount of force and a short stroke distance to actuate. The mechanical switch is attached to a member which contains circuit(s) adding additional functionality to the multi-mode portable illumination device. The member has conductive springs attached to either end that are used to complete the electrical circuit with the battery and the lamp, while their compressive force is absorbed by a housing protecting the switch structure. A conductive strip is used to improve the conductivity of the circuit in a metal multi-mode portable illumination device which has been provided with an electrically resistive protective coating. |
| US08960947B2 |
Lighting apparatus
A portable, handheld lighting apparatus having a light intensity control component, a focus control component, and a light source accommodation component. The lighting apparatus is configured to be handheld with a single hand wherein the light intensity control component and the focus control components are accessible with the single hand to hold the apparatus. The lighting apparatus may be part of a kit that contains one or more of the following: various light modifying components, a power source, charger and various light sources. |
| US08960938B2 |
Rotational game decorative device
A rotational game decorative device is disclosed, including: a aquatic lamp main body, a magnet-driven element, a buoy and a bottom base. The magnetic-driven element and the buoy are disposed inside the aquatic lamp main body. The top and the bottom of the buoy are disposed with a plurality of rotational plates disposed with interval. The bottom base is fixedly engaged to the aquatic lamp main body with a magnetic rotational axis for correspondingly attaching to the magnet-driven element, and driven by a driving element to rotate. When the magnetic rotational axis rotates, the magnet-driven element also rotates because of attachment to the magnetic rotational axis so as to wave the fluid inside the aquatic lamp main body, which leading to pushing to rotational plats to rotate the buoy. |
| US08960934B2 |
Refrigerator and method of manufacturing the same
A door of a refrigerator includes a front panel formed of a metal material, a display unit including a display portion which is disposed at a rear side of the front panel and on which operating information of the refrigerator is displayed when the display portion becomes bright or dark, and a plurality of through holes formed in a region of the front panel corresponding to the display portion. Although the display unit is hidden inside the door, information displayed on the display unit can be seen to a user through the plurality of through holes. |
| US08960932B2 |
Light emitting device
A light emitting device includes: a substrate having a bar shape; a plurality of light emitting elements separately mounted in a lengthwise direction of the substrate on an upper surface of the substrate; and a light-transmissive cover formed to be upwardly convex, having one or more localized concave portions, and installed on the substrate to cover at least two of the plurality of light emitting elements together. |
| US08960931B2 |
Luminous keyboard device
A luminous keyboard device includes plural keys, a supporting plate, a light-emitting element, and a light guide plate. The supporting plate has a supporting plate opening, and the supporting plate opening has a light-guiding slant surface. The light-emitting element is inserted into the supporting plate opening for emitting plural light beams. When the plural light beams are emitted by the light-emitting element, the plural light beams are guided by the light-guiding slant surface to be introduced into the light guide plate, and the plural light beams are directed to the plural keys to illuminate the plural keys. Consequently, the light amount of the light beams to be introduced into the light guide plate will be increased. |
| US08960930B2 |
Solar simulator
A solar simulator including a light source and a light conduit array is provided. The light source is used for emitting a beam of ray radiation. The light conduit array includes a plurality of light conduits closely adjacent to one another. Each of the light conduits has an inner reflecting surface used for reflecting the ray radiation, a light input side, and a light output side opposite to the light input side. The ray radiation enters the light conduits through the light input side and emitting from the light output side. |
| US08960924B2 |
Illumination system and projection apparatus
An illumination system including a light source, a filtering module, a wavelength conversion unit, and a reflection unit is provided. The light source emits an illumination beam. The filtering module is disposed on a transmission path of the illumination beam and includes a plurality of filtering units having different colors. The filtering units move into the transmission path of the illumination beam in turn. Each filtering unit reflects a part of the illumination beam and allows another part of the illumination beam to pass through. The wavelength conversion unit is disposed on a transmission path of the part of the illumination beam reflected by at least one of the filtering units to convert the part of the illumination beam reflected by the at least one of the filtering units into a converted beam. The wavelength conversion unit is disposed on the reflection unit. A projection apparatus is also provided. |
| US08960923B2 |
Projection type display device and method including vibration of component of illumination optical system
A projection type display device includes: optical modulation elements, an illumination optical system that includes light sources for emitting light from light emitting units, and condensing optical systems; and vibrator. The optical modulation elements have optical modulation surfaces for modulating incident light based on image information. The condensing optical systems condense the light from the light sources to form images on the optical modulation surfaces. A vibrator vibrates components of the illumination optical system to move areas on the optical modulation surfaces that are irradiated with the light away from the illumination optical system. |
| US08960921B2 |
Communication apparatus, communication system, communication control method, and recording medium storing communication control program
A communication apparatus performs specific operation before turning off the power of the communication apparatus. When a request for communication task is detected, the communication apparatus determines whether execution of the communication task can be extended at a later time. When execution of the communication task can be extended, the communication apparatus extends execution of the communication task to a later time. When an instruction for turning off the power of the communication apparatus is received, the communication apparatus executes the requested communication task while performing the specific operation. |
| US08960918B2 |
Light source system for a stereoscopic projection apparatus
A light source system for a stereoscopic projection apparatus is provided. The light source system has a light source module, a first lens unit, a light splitting element, a color wheel module and a light integration element. The light source module provides a light beam, which is transferred by the first lens unit to the light splitting element. Then, the light beam is split by the light splitting element into a first light beam with a first bandwidth and a second light beam with a second bandwidth. The first and the second light beams are then received and transformed by the color wheel into a third light beam and a fourth light beam which are then transmitted to the light integration element. With the above arrangement, the light source system can be applied on a projection apparatus to provide a stereoscopic image. |
| US08960912B2 |
Three dimensional image projector
A method is provided for projecting a three-dimensional image. The method includes providing a first light source that emits first eye images and a second light source that emits second eye images. A polarization of the first light source is orthogonal to a polarization of the second light source. A first eye image of a first color is projected from the first light source. A second eye image of the same first color is projected from the second light source. A first eye image of a second color is projected from the first light source. A second eye image of the same second color is projected from the second light source. A first eye image of a third color is projected from the first light source. A second eye image of a third color is projected from the second light source. |
| US08960911B2 |
Projector with three-dimensional display
A projector includes a lamp that emits projection light to project 3D picture, in which a right eye image and a left eye image are represented in a time division manner, to an object, a synchronization signal transmission section which transmits shutter synchronization signal to glasses having a right eye shutter and a left eye shutter to control the opened state or the closed state of the right eye shutter and the left eye shutter, based on the signal indicating a displaying period of the right eye image and the left eye image of 3D picture, and a lamp drive section that supplies AC current having peak overlapping with a period when the right eye shutter of the glasses is in the opened state and peak overlapping with a period when the left eye shutter of the glasses is in the opened state to the lamp, based on the signal. |
| US08960910B2 |
Non-mydriatic eye imaging instrument
Light from an exit pupil of an illumination unit is directed to a beam splitter which directs the light to an objective. The retina is illuminated, if a real image of the exit pupil of the illumination unit and a real image of an entrance pupil of a camera unit are formable. The objective forms a real intermediate image of the retina between the objective and the camera unit. The beam splitter directs the light from the retina to the camera unit, while causing the path of the illumination and the path of the imaging to deviate for non-overlapping images of the exit pupil and the entrance pupil in the crystalline lens. A relay lens system forms a real image of the intermediate image on a detecting component with the light reflected from the retina for transforming the image into an electric form to be shown on a screen. |
| US08960909B2 |
Control apparatus and control method
A control apparatus includes an irradiation unit configured to irradiate a measurement object with a measuring beam, a restriction unit configured to restrict the measuring beam from being incident on the measurement object and to reflect or scatter the measuring beam, and a polarization control unit configured to control, based on the measuring beam reflected or scattered by the restriction unit, polarization of the measuring beam. |
| US08960907B2 |
Ophthalmic device
There is provided an ophthalmic device that includes a plurality of light sources including at least a light source for obtaining a return light of which aberration has been corrected with a correction unit from an eye under examination; and a control unit configured to control measurement lights from the plurality of light sources such that the measurement lights enter the eye under examination in a predetermined order when a photography of a second eye is started after a photography of a first eye has been completed. |
| US08960904B2 |
Optical tomographic apparatus and control method thereof
In order to change a size of an imaging area of a tomographic image of an object to be inspected easily, provided is an optical tomographic apparatus for acquiring a tomographic image of an object to be inspected, the optical tomographic apparatus including a control unit for controlling a measuring light path length changing unit to change an optical path length of measuring light in a case where the size of the imaging area of the tomographic image is changed, and for controlling a movable unit for moving a focus lens for focusing the measuring light to the object to be inspected along an optical path to move the focus lens in association with the change in the optical path length of the measuring light. |
| US08960902B2 |
Method and apparatus for producing a spectacle lens in consideration of monocular and binocular properties
A method and apparatus for producing a first spectacle lens of a pair of spectacle lenses to be used with a second spectacle lens for a specific situation of wear, in which optical parameters for the spectacle lens are calculated to minimize the value of a target function that corresponds to the pair of spectacle lenses. The target function is the sum of a first monocular function, with a weighting factor, that depends on the values of a first monocular optical property at a plurality of monocular evaluation points, a the binocular function, with a weighting factor, that depends on the values of a second monocular optical property at the plurality of pairs of binocular evaluation points, and a remainder term. |
| US08960900B2 |
Progressive-power lens
A progressive-power lens has one surface which satisfies the following expressions CY(DP)=CT(DP) CY(P)>CT(P) where CT(DP) denotes a vertical direction curvature at the distance reference point, CY(DP) denotes a horizontal direction curvature, CY(P) denotes a horizontal direction curvature at a point on the principal meridian which is located further on the near portion than the progressive start point, and CT(P) denotes a vertical direction curvature at the point. |
| US08960898B1 |
Contact lens that restricts incoming light to the eye
This disclosure generally relates to systems and/or methods to restrict light entering an opening of an eye pupil by detecting pupil dilation, detecting incoming light intensity or direction, and adjusting light restricting properties of one or more light restricting regions of the contact lens based upon the detected pupil dilation parameters and incoming light intensity or direction. |
| US08960897B2 |
Device for demonstrating and testing the efficacy of an antireflection treatment of an ophthalmic lens
A device is provided for demonstrating and testing the effectiveness of an anti-reflection treatment of an ophthalmic lens. An image (2) is backlit by a light source (7) with a second face (1B) forming an angle of at least 90° relative to the first face and is placed facing a third face (1C) for positioning at least one ophthalmic lens (4A) with its concave face facing outwards. The device includes text (5) on a transparent medium behind the mirror and a face of uniform color (6) behind the text, such that when a user looks through the orifice (4) and the lens (4A), the user can see the reflection of the image (2) on the lens (4A) by means of the mirror (3), the image being superposed on the text (5) and on the face (6) of uniform color. |
| US08960894B2 |
Inkjet recording apparatus with divided belt transport sections
An inkjet recording apparatus includes a first belt transport section having a first transport belt, a recording section, a second belt transport section having a second transport belt, and a guide mechanism provided in an upstream-side end part of the second belt transport section. The guide mechanism includes a guide support member and a biasing member. The guide support member has formed therein a guide portion to pass the recording medium held by attraction on the first transport belt to the second transport belt and a positioning portion to keep a fixed gap between the guide portion and the transport surface of the first belt transport section, and is arranged to be swingable in a movement direction of the first belt transport section. The biasing member biases the guide support member in a direction approaching the first belt transport section. |
| US08960890B2 |
Printing apparatus, printing method, and program
A printing apparatus includes a nozzle that ejects, onto a medium, photo-curing ink cured when irradiated with light, and an irradiation unit that irradiates, with the light, the photo-curing ink landed on the medium. Here, when printing an image on the medium by coating with the photo-curing ink, the photo-curing ink is ejected from the nozzle so that the photo-curing ink is coated on the medium with a smaller amount of ink than normally coated in a region inside an outer border of the image, and the photo-curing ink is cured by irradiating the image with the light from the irradiation unit. |
| US08960888B2 |
Image formation device and image formation method
An image formation device of the present invention has: a recording medium supplying section that supplies a recording medium; a conveying section that conveys the recording medium supplied from the recording medium supplying section; an image formation section that ejects droplets and forms an image on the recording medium that is being conveyed; an image conversion section that converts an inputted image into dot data; a printing processing section that, from inputted print information, outputs continuously printed number of sheets information that causes the image formation section to continuously print output images, and prints the recording media corresponding to the continuously printed number of sheets, and, thereafter, carries out processing that temporarily stops printing of the output images; and a control section that, during a stoppage time of the printing, stops at least formation of images at the image formation section, and continues to drive the conveying section. |
| US08960879B2 |
Ink jet ink, ink cartridge, and ink jet recording method
An ink jet ink contains a resin A, a resin B, and a pigment, in which the pigment is a halogenated metal phthalocyanine pigment being dispersed by the resin B, the resin A is a random copolymer having a carboxy group, the resin B is a block copolymer having a carboxy group, the acid value of the resin A is less than the acid value of the resin B, and the ink further includes a polybasic acid having a functional group whose pKa is 4.3 or less and a functional group whose pKa is 5.0 or more and 6.6 or less. |
| US08960878B2 |
Ink jet ink, ink jet recording method, and ink cartridge
An ink jet ink containing a pigment and a polyurethane polymer, wherein the polyurethane polymer has units derived from a polyol having no acid group and having the carbon number of 13 or more and 250 or less, a diol having an acid group and having the carbon number of 1 or more and 7 or less, a polyol having a siloxane structure, and a polyisocyanate, and an acid value of the polyurethane polymer is 40.0 mgKOH/g or more and 80.0 mgKOH/g or less. |
| US08960877B2 |
Black ink composition
Provided is a black ink composition containing a pigment, wherein the value calculated from the average particle diameter and the particle size distribution width of the pigment and the ink viscosity is regulated within a certain range, and the number of coarse particles contained in the ink composition is regulated to a certain value or less. The ink composition is excellent in ink storage stability and can give an image realized with good balance between color development, in particular, in high-speed printing and inhibition of a time-dependent change in printing density due to pigment sedimentation. |
| US08960876B2 |
Liquid ejection head and image forming apparatus
A liquid ejection head includes nozzles ejecting liquid droplets; individual liquid chambers in communication with the nozzles; liquid supply paths in communication with the individual liquid chambers; a common liquid chamber storing liquid to be supplied to the liquid supply paths; filter members disposed between the common liquid chamber and the respective liquid supply paths, the filter members including filter regions to filter the liquid; and one or more dividing wall sections, each disposed between the liquid supply paths. Further, the filter region of the filter member is bonded to the one or more dividing wall sections and the outer peripheral parts with adhesive and the filter region of the filter member is bent in a direction opposite to a direction in which liquid flows from the common liquid chamber to the liquid supply paths. |
| US08960875B2 |
Insert method of negative-pressure generating member and insert device of negative-pressure generating member
There is provided an insert method of a negative-pressure generating member where, upon inserting a negative-pressure generating member 130 into a negative-pressure generating member accommodating chamber, the negative-pressure generating member 130 is inserted while being rotated to a predetermined rotation angle, is inserted to the bottom portion in the negative-pressure generating member accommodating chamber while retaining the rotated angle, and further, is inserted by rotating the negative-pressure member 130 in a reverse direction to the previous rotation direction, thereby increasing a density of the negative-pressure generating member in the partition wall adjacent section. |
| US08960871B2 |
Mounting member, liquid container with mounting member, and liquid supply system
A mounting member includes a position alignment member, an attachment member and a moving member. The position alignment member is positionally aligned with respect to a liquid consumption apparatus in three directions. The attachment member is attached to the position alignment member and includes an inner portion flow path and a liquid supply port. The moving member is attached to the attachment member, and configured and arranged to move according to pressure changes in the inner portion flow path. The moving member is disposed at a position that faces and contacts one end portion of a rod-shaped member provided in the liquid consumption apparatus when the mounting member is mounted in the liquid consumption apparatus so that displacement of the other end portion of the rod-shaped member is detected by a sensor that detects a liquid remaining amount state of the liquid supply source. |
| US08960861B2 |
Liquid droplet ejecting head, printing apparatus and method of manufacturing liquid droplet ejecting head
A liquid droplet ejecting head includes: a base substrate that has a concave portion that is formed to be open toward an upper surface and a wiring pattern; and an IC package that is electrically connected to the wiring pattern. The concave portion has a bottom portion and a pair of first side wall portions which stand obliquely on the bottom portion so as to be opposed to each other. Further, the wiring pattern has a plurality of linear objects, each of which is continuous and is constituted of a first part, a second part, and a third part. In addition, the IC package is formed in a chip shape, has a plurality of terminals which are formed on a front side surface, and is disposed such that the front side surface faces the concave portion, and each terminal is electrically connected to the first part. |
| US08960858B2 |
Print-head module
A print-head module for a single-pass inkjet printer is specified, which print-head module includes a housing, a hangar part which is fastened to the housing for hanging in a manner which is oriented in the direction of gravity, and a number of print heads which are arranged on the housing along a transverse direction which is perpendicular with respect to a running direction, wherein the print heads are positionally adjusted at least at one reference position. The print-head module can be exchanged simply and rapidly. Complicated re-adjustment on the single-pass inkjet printer can be dispensed with. |
| US08960857B1 |
Inkjet print head and method of manufacturing the same
An inkjet print head includes a main body including carbon allotrope, and an ink storage configured to store an ink and including a space defined in the main body. A protecting layer is on an inner surface of the main body, and includes parylene. An inorganic layer is on the protecting layer. An organic layer is on the inorganic layer. |
| US08960854B2 |
Inkjet recording apparatus
An inkjet recording apparatus 10 includes a first plate 20a having line heads 11a aligned thereon, a coupling portion 21 jointed to the first plate 20a, a drive device 30 sliding the first plate 20a via the coupling portion 21 from a waiting position P1 in which the line heads wait to a recording position P2 in which recording is performed on a recording medium 1, and a second plate 20b having at least one line head 11b thereon and being attachable to and detachable from the coupling portion 21, wherein only the first plate 20a is slidable when the second plate 20b is detached from the coupling portion 21, and the first plate 20a and the second plate 20b are integrally slidable when the second plate 20b is attached to the coupling portion 21. |
| US08960849B2 |
Method for analyzing positional deviation of head modules, recording medium, and method for adjusting inkjet head
A method for analyzing positional deviation of head modules of an inkjet head having head modules connected and joined with each other includes: dividing a printing pattern and thereby creating division patterns; obtaining conversion factors of the nozzles of each division pattern; changing the number of nozzles used in calculation and thereby obtain a minimum value of a standard error of a positional deviation shift amount; changing the number of divisions of the division patterns and performing the calculation of the conversion factor and the standard error with the changed division patterns; determining the number of divisions and the number of nozzles with which the value of the standard error is minimal; and creating an analysis chart with the determined number of divisions and calculating the positional deviation shift amount based upon an average value of the positional deviation shift amounts of nozzles corresponding to the determined number of nozzles. |
| US08960843B2 |
Multi-function inkjet device for printing with thermo-reactive ink
What is disclosed is a multi-function inkjet print system which prints with inks having thermo-reactive properties and which can further process media printed with thermo-reactive inks such that the various properties of the inks can be activated. One embodiment of the present print device comprises at least one thermo-changing element which resides in proximity to a transport path along which the media travels. The thermo-changing element effectively changing a temperature T of the media to: T≦TL or T≧TH, as desired. In various embodiments, a sensor is used for sensing a temperature of the media. A temp-normalizing element is positioned along the transport path and downstream of the thermo-changing element for changing a temperature of the media such that the media's temperature T can be normalized back to a range of TL< |
| US08960841B2 |
Printing apparatus and printing method
A printing apparatus includes a printing mechanism performing printing by ejecting ink from a printing head which is relatively moved with respect to the printed medium and a printing control section controlling operation of the printing mechanism. A plurality of nozzle rows are formed side by side for each of ink types in a main scanning direction in the printing head. The printing mechanism includes a transportation section which is configured so as to be capable of switching a transportation direction of the printed medium between a first direction and a second direction. The printing control section performs the printing by switching the first printing mode which uses two or more nozzle rows and the second printing mode which uses one or more nozzle rows, which is caused by switching the transportation direction. |
| US08960840B2 |
Image recording apparatus and tray
An image recording apparatus includes a tray including a loading portion for holding a recording medium. The tray has first and second openings. A recording portion is positioned in spaced relation to a platen supporting member having a platen and defining a transportation path therebetween. A transportation portion transports the tray along the transportation path to a position between the platen and the recording portion. A sensor is part of the recording portion and opposes the platen. The sensor outputting a signal based on a detection result obtained using a light emitting portion and a light receiving portion. A control section controls the transportation portion and the sensor to perform detection using the light emitting and light receiving portions. A determination section that determines whether the recording medium is loaded in the loading portion of the tray in accordance with a first output value, and a second output value. |
| US08960839B1 |
System and method for spatial dependent correction for images printed with multiple drop parameters
A method of operating a printer includes identifying a halftone level a first ink drop parameter corresponding to a contone level in image data for using a contone to halftone mapping. The method includes operating printheads to form a printed pattern using the first ink drop parameter and identifying a reflectance level of the printed pattern in scanned image data. The method includes modifying the halftone level in the mapping if the identified reflectance level is outside of a tolerance range from a normalized reflectance value associated with the contone level and storing the modified halftone level in a memory for printing the contone level. |
| US08960838B2 |
Printer
A printer includes a print unit that ejects ink droplets of at least one ink color onto the sheet, at least one roller that feeds the printed sheet, and a controller that controls the print unit to print the sheet based on image data that defines an ink provision amount of each ink color for every dot according to a print resolution. The controller detects, based on the image data, a broad solid area, and carries out a print setting change with respect to the broad solid area by making the print resolution in the image data lower and making the ink provision amount of each ink color in the image data larger according to the print resolution that is made lower. According to the printer, stains on the printed sheet can be restricted. |
| US08960837B2 |
Recording apparatus
A recording apparatus includes a transport roller that transports a sheet by a predetermined transportation amount along a transportation path, a printing unit that records an image on the sheet being transported in synchronization with driving of the transport roller, a position detecting mechanism that detects whether an installation position is vertical installation or horizontal installation, and a transportation amount correcting unit that corrects a transportation amount depending on the detection result of the position detecting mechanism. |
| US08960835B2 |
Image forming apparatus, pattern position determining method, and image forming system
A disclosed image forming apparatus includes a reading unit including a light emitting element for emitting light to a record medium, and a light receiving element for receiving reflected light; a print data storing unit storing print data of a uniform pattern which has a color different from a color of the test pattern and is provided in an area including the test pattern, a pattern forming unit printing the test pattern on the uniform pattern after the uniform pattern is printed, a relatively moving unit moving the record medium or the reading unit relatively at a constant speed, a first detection data obtaining unit obtaining first detection data received as the reflection light while the light moves and impinges on the test pattern, and a position detecting unit providing a calculation for determining a position of a line of the test pattern to detect the test pattern. |
| US08960832B2 |
Liquid ejecting apparatus and controlling method thereof
A minute vibration driving signal is configured to include a first signal section which generates a plurality of minute vibration driving pulses, and a second signal section which maintains potential to a constant level without generating the minute vibration driving pulse, and can select a first mode in which duration of the second signal section is set to T2 which is longer than duration T1 of the first signal section, and a second mode in which duration of the second signal section is set to T4 which is longer than T2. |
| US08960831B2 |
Inkjet head and an inkjet recording device
According to one embodiment, the inkjet head of an application example includes a pressure chamber for charging the ink, an actuator for changing the volume of the pressure chamber, a nozzle for discharging the ink inside the pressure chamber when the volume of the pressure chamber is changed, and a controller that, in the formation of one pixel by discharging ink drops from the nozzle, when the elapsed interval from discharging ink drops last time by the nozzle is less than the specified interval, outputs the discharging waveform corresponding to the ink drop number determined for the formation of the pixel, and when the elapsed interval is more than the specified interval, increases the number of ink drop discharge cycles above the number determined for the formation of the pixel. |
| US08960826B2 |
Refrigerator
A refrigerator is provided. The refrigerator may include a cabinet having a first storage region with a plurality of shelves, a first door coupled to the cabinet by a first connection member and having a second storage region with a plurality of shelves and an opening providing to access to the second storage region, and a second door rotatably coupled to the first door by a second connection member so as to selectively provide access to the second storage region through the opening in the first door. An auxiliary shelf may be rotatably coupled in the opening formed in the first door such that an axis of rotation of the auxiliary shelf crosses, or is orthogonal to, the axis of rotation of the first and second doors. |
| US08960813B2 |
Method and brake system for controlling the driving stability of a vehicle
The invention relates to a method in which the driving stability of a vehicle is controlled, wherein a yaw rate difference is influenced by an additional yaw moment which is generated at least partially by building up braking torque independently of the driver at one or more wheels. According to the invention, the braking torque which influences the additional yaw moment is variably apportioned between the front axle and the rear axle of the vehicle in an oversteering situation. |
| US08960812B2 |
Electrical retarding deration
A method of derating a retarding grid assembly of a machine is provided. The method may determine the temperatures of resistive elements and insulators associated with the retarding grid assembly, generate a trigger if any one of the temperatures of the resistive elements and insulators exceeds a respective temperature threshold, and determine a magnitude of deration to be applied to a drivetrain associated with the machine in response to the trigger. The magnitude of deration may be based at least partially on feedback and feedforward analyzes of the temperatures of the resistive elements and insulators. The magnitude of deration may correspond to a reduction in retarding capacity of the drivetrain. |
| US08960809B2 |
Continuous miner mid-conveyor drive
A continuous miner includes a mining portion, a support frame connected to the mining portion, and a discharge portion pivotally attached to the support frame. The discharge portion swings laterally relative to the support frame about a pivot axis. The continuous miner also includes a conveyor extending across the support frame and discharge portion. The conveyor moves mined material from the mining portion to the discharge portion. The conveyor includes a conveyor chain, a rear roller, and a front roller. The continuous miner also includes a conveyor drive system for driving the conveyor chain. The conveyor drive system is located on a bottom surface of the continuous miner and between the rear roller and the front roller. |
| US08960804B2 |
Child support strap
A child restraining system for a vehicle the system comprising: at least one web (60), suitable for attachment to a harness comprising a shoulder strap (14); wherein in use the one or more webs (60) covers an area substantially below the scapula and the same or a different web covers at least part of the side of the abdomen; thereby limiting the ability of a child to slide an arm or a shoulder out from under the strap (14). |
| US08960798B2 |
Reclining apparatus
A reclining apparatus, in which a force causes an operating shaft to incline with respect to an axis of the relative rotation thereof, provides a reclining apparatus having good operability. More specifically, an operating shaft 77 is formed with a flange portion 75 so as to protrude in the radial direction of the operating shaft 77 so as to abut against a bottom portion 21a of a ratchet (first member) 21, and restrict the operating shaft 77 from inclining in any direction with respect to the bottom portion 21a of the ratchet 21 over the entire area of the outer peripheral surface in the circumferential direction on an outer peripheral surface thereof. |
| US08960792B1 |
Monobloc rocking chair
The present disclosure is directed to a monobloc rocking chair. The rocking chair includes a seat, backrest, a pair of front legs, a pair of rear legs, and rockers extending between front and rear legs. The chair is molded of a single material include a downwardly opening cavity and formed to taper outwardly from top to bottom. The cavity is formed by the seat being supported directly from below by front legs and being supported directly from above by a backrest. Rear legs are spaced from the seat. This allows two identical chairs to nest when vertically stacked for compact shipping, storage, or display. The monobloc rocking chair can include one or more arms or be armless. |
| US08960789B2 |
Child vehicle safety seat
A child vehicle safety seat may include a seat base, a first side frame, a second side frame, a strap and belt assembly, and a compressible piece. The seat base is pivotally coupled to the first and second side frames. The strap and belt assembly is coupled to the side frames and to the compressible piece. Upon an exerted force, the seat base swings about a pivot axis defined by its pivotal coupling to the side frames. The compressible piece is compressed by the strap and belt assembly and the swinging movement of the seat base is dampened. |
| US08960786B2 |
Supporting structure for a swivelable center armrest
A center armrest supporting structure for mounting an arm support can be swiveled between a lower use position and an upper rest position for use in a vehicle. Here, the carrying structure as an element of the vehicle features a left and a right console part made of a metal sheet, which have the arm support mounted thereon via bolt sections. Here, each console part on the side facing toward the arm support features a bearing shell made of plastics, wherein the bearing shell can be mounted on the console part by an assembly movement which is directed at least partially in parallel to the swivel axis. |
| US08960784B1 |
Inclined chair assembly
An inclined chair assembly includes a foldable seat that may support a user on an inclined support surface. A leg is coupled to the foldable seat so the leg may abut the inclined support surface. A support is coupled to the foldable seat so the support may support a user's arm. |
| US08960776B2 |
Vehicle bed frame assembly, system and method
A vehicle frame assembly, system and method includes a vehicle frame assembly having a variable length longitudinal frame component. The longitudinal frame component is formed at a first length when used on a first vehicle type and formed at a second length when used on a second vehicle type. |
| US08960771B2 |
High efficiency vehicle
The invention is a vehicle for ground transportation that is an aerodynamic shell attached to wheels. The aerodynamic shell is shaped according to airship technology and is elevated such that air flow around the shell is like air flow would be for that shell in flight. The elevation is accomplished with attached structure and attached wheels. Wheels at each side of the vehicle are arranged in wheel trains that are filled in and streamlined to form secondary aerodynamic units, with space between wheels used for equipment. The invention requires changing the position of the engine from its usual place that is low and at the front of the vehicle to a very different position that is high and at the rear of the vehicle. |
| US08960768B2 |
Structure for side portion of vehicle
A structure for a side portion of a vehicle, the structure having a bulkhead provided within a closed cross-section of a center pillar. The bulkhead is disposed so as to be superposed on the lapping section of a lower door beam in the width direction of the vehicle and has a movement restriction section capable of supporting the lapping section. When the lower door beam is moved by a load inputted in the lower door beam from a side of the vehicle, the movement restriction section supports the lapping section of the lower door beam to restrict the movement of the lapping section in the vertical direction. |
| US08960764B2 |
Tonneau cover locking spring clamp
A tonneau cover system for a cargo box of a pickup truck including a framework having a cross bow member supporting a cover and a locking spring clamp assembly. The locking spring assembly having: a linkage member coupled to at least one of the framework and the cover at a connection location along the linkage member; and a latch housing slidably coupled to the linkage member. The latch housing includes an engaging member engaging the cargo box of the pickup truck in a latched position. A first biasing member urges the latch housing into the latched position. A locking feature releasably couples the linkage member and the latch housing into a locked position, such that a distance between the connection location and the engaging member is generally constant in the latched position and generally maintained by the locking feature in a locked position. |
| US08960759B2 |
Vehicle body front structure
A vehicle body front structure includes a brake master cylinder mounting surface that is formed in an arc shape toward a vehicle interior, a plurality of mounting surface beads that are formed on the brake master cylinder mounting surface only in a vertical direction and an inclined direction inclined with respect to the vertical direction, and a reinforcing plate that is joined to the plurality of mounting surface beads. |
| US08960755B2 |
Motor vehicle luggage compartment covering device
A motor vehicle luggage compartment covering device has a parcel shelf defined by a panel hinged to two sides of the luggage compartment about a horizontal axis and having two rear holes; the device also has two ties provided with respective ropes which extend through said holes; the lower ends of the ropes are fixed to two weights; the upper ends, however, are attached to two hooking elements that are hung in a releasable manner to a tailgate of the luggage compartment; for each rope, the upper ends are provided with respective protrusions, which are integral with the ropes and engage respective retaining seats obtained in the hooking elements; the holes of the parcel shelf have a diameter which is higher than that of the protrusions and is lower than the size of the hooking elements. |
| US08960752B2 |
Interior decorative resin component and mounting method thereof
There is provided an interior decorative resin component allowing mounting holes to be further precisely bored on a mounting portion thereof without using a pattern paper. This interior decorative resin component comprises a mounting portion to be fixed to a pocket section of an instrument panel inside a vehicle, and an auxiliary portion having a shape conformable to the pocket section with a three-dimensional shape. This interior decorative resin component can be applied to even more types of vehicles due to an improved merchantability thereof. Particularly, the interior decorative resin component is easily mounted in a sense that positioning procedures thereof are reduced by a significant degree by not using a pattern paper, thus minimizing variations in the precisions of positioning performed by each worker. Further, costs spent on the pattern paper and parts such as jigs or the like can thus be omitted to improve a profit ratio. |
| US08960748B2 |
Apparatus and methods for flange support and alignment
A method and apparatus for supporting and aligning a flange is provided. In one embodiment, an apparatus for supporting a flange is provided. The apparatus includes a first member having a first surface and a second surface, a first side member extending orthogonally from the first surface of the first member, a second side member extending orthogonally from the first surface of the first member in a spaced apart relation to the first side member to define a U-shaped structure, wherein each of the first side member and the second side member include an aperture formed therein along a longitudinal axis of the U-shaped structure, a lifting lug coupled to the second surface of the first member in a transverse axis of the U-shaped structure, and a plurality of set screws disposed through the first member on opposing sides of the lifting lug. |
| US08960746B2 |
Underwater magnetic retrieval apparatus
An underwater magnetic retrieval apparatus and method utilizing same are provided. The apparatus is specifically constructed for underwater retrieval of a magnetically-attractable object. The apparatus includes at least one housing including at least two spaced attachment portions, a plurality of magnets disposed within the at least one housing and at least one line extending from the two spaced attachment portions of the at least one housing to facilitate underwater manipulation of the apparatus and underwater retrieval of the magnetically-attractable object. |
| US08960745B2 |
Zoned activation manufacturing vacuum tool
Aspects relate to systems, methods, and apparatus for a zoned vacuum tool comprised of independently operable vacuum sources provided a vacuum force to segregated zones. A vacuum force is generated in connection with a first zone independently of an activation or deactivation of vacuum force generation associated with a second zone. Therefore, a single vacuum tool can selectively apply a vacuum force to material portions, which allows for control as to which material portions are manipulated by the vacuum tool. |
| US08960743B1 |
Modular trail tool
Disclosed herein are several examples of an adapter for a modular tool system. The adapter in one form comprising: a handle attachment device fixed to a shovel head; the handle attachment device removably attached to a coupler which is fixed to one longitudinal end of an elongate handle; the elongate handle having a longitudinal axis wherein the coupler is in line with the longitudinal axis of the longitudinal axis of the handle; an offset arm having a first end fixed to the handle attachment device, the offset arm extending from the handle attachment device and extending to a second end removably coupled to the elongate handle at a point longitudinally distal of the coupler; and wherein the offset arm extends from the handle attachment device at a vertical offset distance from the longitudinal axis of the elongate handle. |
| US08960740B2 |
Lock shell assembly
A shell assembly includes a first shell having an elastic joint component securely formed on a side face of the first shell, a second shell received in the first shell having a concavity to correspondingly partially receive therein the joint component, such that the first shell and the second shell are separably connected together for a replacement application. |
| US08960739B2 |
Multi-functional doorstop tool
A tool includes a double wedge, a tongue, and a wedge. The double wedge has a top surface, a bottom surface, a front, a rear, a right side, and a left side. The tongue extends from the front of the double wedge and the wedge extends from the rear of the double wedge. Either the tongue or the wedge can be inserted between a door and another surface to hold the door open. |
| US08960737B2 |
Lock bolt
A security lock bolt for sealing objects against unauthorized access includes a lock bolt having two bolt locking features that cooperate with two locking features that cooperate with a locking cylinder and transparent cap member secured to the locking cylinder, respectively. The bolt locking feature cooperating with the locking cylinder secures the bolt from unauthorized separation from the locking cylinder and the locking feature that cooperates with the transparent cap is visible to an observer outside the cylinder and locks the bolt against separation from the transparent cap member. The transparent cap locking arrangement provides an indication of full locking of the lock bolt within the locking cylinder. The bolt locking feature associated with the transparent cap member is integrated with an overmolded bolt body casing. |
| US08960729B2 |
Clamp assembly with annular clamps and bridge
An improved clamp assembly that has two adjacent annular clamps and the user has the choice of tightening just one of them or both of them. A bridge element is provided that presses against one or more sealing rings when tightening the annular clamp. |
| US08960726B2 |
Coupling lock mechanism
A threaded coupling wherein external threads of the male body of the male coupling half are in mating engagement with internal threads of the female sleeve of the female coupling half. The female sleeve includes an interior hook and the male body includes a locking lever receptacle recessed therein as well as first and second slots for receiving first and second pins of the locking lever. The locking lever pivotally resides in the receptacle and interlocks with the hook of the female sleeve uniting the male and female. A tensioning O-ring secures the locking lever to the male body. A locking sleeve extends circumferentially about the male body and prohibits the release of the hook of the female sleeve from a recess in the locking lever unless a window is aligned with the locking lever. A process for locking the threaded coupling is also disclosed. |
| US08960716B2 |
Curtain airbag housing structure
The housing structure for a curtain airbag includes: an airbag body; an inflator configured to inflate and deploy the airbag body; a bracket configured to fix a base end portion of the airbag body to a roof side or a front pillar; and a tether configured to anchor a front end portion of the airbag body to the front pillar. The airbag body is wound into a long narrow shape and covered with a roof lining, and the tether and a portion fixed by the tether are covered with a front pillar trim. The bracket is disposed adjacent to a joint portion of the roof lining and the front pillar trim and has an extension piece extending along the front pillar. An end portion of the airbag body wound together with the tether or a portion of the tether adjacent to the end portion is fixed to the extension piece with a releasable binding member. |
| US08960715B2 |
Head protection device and guiding bracket
A head protection device includes an air bag and a guiding bracket, and the guiding bracket includes an attachment surface that has an attachment portion attached to a body panel, a guiding wall that has a support portion for supporting the air bag, and a contact portion that is coupled to an end of the guiding wall in the vehicle cabin side and contacts a ceiling material. A weak portion deformed toward the vehicle cabin outer side by a load of a passenger's head at a collision causing no activation of an inflator is formed between the support portion of the guiding wall and the contact portion. |
| US08960714B2 |
Side curtain airbag and airbag system comprising the same
Disclosed is a side curtain airbag and an airbag system including the same. The side curtain airbag according to the present invention comprises an inflating part having gas inflation, a non-inflating part supporting the inflating part, and an adhered part constituting a boundary between the inflating part and the non-inflating part. The adhered part is coated with a seam sealant and sewed. The initial maximum pressure of the inflating part is 40 kPa or more when injecting a gas therein with an instant pressure of at least 10 bar, and the pressure after 6 seconds is 25 kPa or more. The side curtain airbag may optimize to apply the method of seam sealant coating and sewing on the adhered part constituting a boundary between the inflating part and the non-inflating part. Thus, it can keep the internal gas pressure of the airbag to the extent of protecting passengers safely at rollover. |
| US08960713B2 |
Knee airbag for vehicle and folding method thereof
A method of folding a knee airbag includes folding a lower portion of the knee airbag perpendicularly to a vertical central axis so that a lower end of the knee airbag is placed on the front panel of the knee airbag, individually folding both sides of the knee airbag toward the vertical central axis, and rolling an upper end portion of the knee airbag toward the lower portion of the knee airbag. The lower portion of the folded knee airbag is rapidly deployed toward the leg of an occupant in the initial deployment of the knee airbag, thereby minimizing time to ensure the minimum space between the instrument panel and the leg of the occupant and rapidly confining the leg of the occupant. |
| US08960707B2 |
Pivoting tow hook
Disclosed is a tow adapter for coupling a device to be towed to a towing vehicle. The tow adapter includes a bracket adapted to be attached to the towing vehicle, a loop suitable to support a tether to enable the towing vehicle to tow the device to be towed, the loop having a first end and a second end portion each mounted to the bracket about a pivot such that the loop pivots relative to the bracket, the bracket including stops extending outwardly there from which limit an extent of travel of the loop about the pivot when the loop makes contact with the stops, and a hook mounted to the bracket and at least a portion of the hook capable of being disposed centrally within the loop. The tether may be threaded through the loop and attached to the hook to enable the towing vehicle to tow the device to be towed. |
| US08960704B2 |
Fifth wheel hitch kingpin assembly
A kingpin assembly comprises a housing having a recess located therein, a kingpin having at least a portion located within the recess of the housing, a collar member operably coupled to the kingpin, and a collet member extending about the kingpin and frictionally engaging the housing and the kingpin. |
| US08960702B2 |
Electric bicycle
An electric bicycle and electric bicycle frame including batteries or a battery pack stored in one or more tubes of the frame. In some cases, a pair of top tubes extend rearward of the bicycle seat tube, and an electronics housing may be disposed between the rearward extending top tube portions. Alternatively or in addition, a removable bottom bracket shell portion and a removable bottom bracket insert may be provided, to allow convenient access to the interior portions of the down tube and/or seat tube of the frame. A battery pack and/or a battery electronics management unit may be conveniently within one or both of the down tube and the seat tube. |
| US08960697B2 |
Suspension device for vehicle
A vehicle suspension device includes a first fluid path through which a first upper port opening into a first hydraulic cylinder and a second lower port opening into a second hydraulic cylinder communicate with each other, a second fluid path through which a second upper port opening into the second hydraulic cylinder and a first lower port opening into the first hydraulic cylinder communicate with each other, a first hydraulic damping mechanism in the first fluid path, a second hydraulic damping mechanism in the second fluid path, a first accumulator connected to the first fluid path via a first branch fluid path having a first auxiliary hydraulic damping mechanism, a second accumulator connected to the second fluid path via a second branch fluid path having a second auxiliary hydraulic damping mechanism, and a bridge fluid path through which the first and second branch fluid paths are connected together. |
| US08960687B2 |
Workholder for holding a workpiece to be processed in a machine tool
The invention relates to a workholder (10) for holding a workpiece to be processed in a machine tool, which workholder (10) is in the form of a annular body (12) having a central through hole (14), said annular body (12) having at least one weakened area (18, 20; 34, 36, 38, 40; 50, 52, 54, 56) obtained by material removal, as well as at least one pressure chamber (22; 42, 44; 58, 60) assigned to said at least one weakened area (18, 20; 34, 36, 38, 40; 50, 52, 54, 56) that can be charged with a pressurized fluid. Said at least one weakened area (18, 20; 34, 36, 38, 40; 50, 52, 54, 56) is dimensioned and arranged so as to cause said annular body (12) to be elastically deformable in an axial and/or a radial direction (a, r). As a result, with pressure acting on said pressure chamber (22; 42, 44; 58, 60), said annular body (12) can then be deformed elastically in a well-defined manner in an axial and/or a radial direction (a, r). |
| US08960684B2 |
Internal combustion engine having positioning pins disposed within fluid communication ports
A motorcycle includes a cylinder body, a cylinder head disposed above the cylinder body, and a plurality of dowel pins configured to position the cylinder body and the cylinder head. The cylinder body includes a plurality of cylinders and a plurality of bolt insertion holes. The cylinder head includes first and second passages configured to flow oil or air therethrough. The cylinder body includes a first communication port in communication with the first passage and a second communication port in communication with the second passage. The first communication port is disposed in a front left region, and the second communication port is disposed in a rear right region. The plurality of dowel pins consist of a first dowel pin fitted into the first communication port and the first passage and a second dowel pin fitted into the second communication port and the second passage. |
| US08960683B2 |
Pipe coupling seal
A pipe coupling seal including a cylindrical elastomeric seal (10) including annular pad portions (14, 16) axially spaced apart from one another and extending from a bridge portion (18), each of the pad portions (14, 16) being thicker than the bridge portion (18) and adapted to seal against an outer diameter of a pipe, wherein at least one of the pad portions (14, 16) includes a removable section that includes a continuously enclosed annular hollow void (34). |
| US08960678B2 |
Thrustback training sled
The disclosure includes a variety of thrustback sleds. In one embodiment, the disclosure provides a thrust back training sled, including a base including a plurality of horizontal runners, a generally horizontal rail assembly disposed on the base, a trolley assembly disposed on the generally horizontal rail assembly, the trolley assembly including a plurality of rollers received by the rail assembly, the trolley being adapted to translate from a first, forward position to a second, rearward position along the generally horizontal rail assembly. The sled can further include a generally horizontally oriented spring adapted to restrict horizontal movement of the trolley from the first position to the second position, a pivotable mounting plate pivotally attached to the trolley assembly, the pivotable mounting plate being adapted to rotate from a first lower position to a second, higher position about a center of rotation, and a generally vertically oriented spring adapted to restrict vertical movement of the pivotable mounting plate from the first position to the second position. |
| US08960677B2 |
Adjustable target stand and method of use
An adjustable target stand is provided. The adjustable target stand includes a support assembly having a cross member pivotably received by opposing first and second side plates, and at least one target support member carried by and projecting from the cross member. The adjustable target stand also includes a target orientation assembly including a handle coupled to the pivotable cross member, the handle having a handle aperture, and a plurality of apertures provided through the first side plate and radially extending a first distance from a first cross member receiving aperture provided in the first side plate, the plurality of apertures are each in alignment with the handle aperture such that the handle is pivotable between the plurality of apertures such that an angle retention member may engage the handle aperture with one of the plurality of apertures. A method of using an adjustable target stand is also provided. |
| US08960676B2 |
Card game
A card game is disclosed in which participants arrange six poker cards into three hands, including a one-card hand, a two-card hand, and a three-card hand. Wagers are placed on each of the participant's hands. The participants compete their hands against at least one other participant's hands to determine who has the highest ranked hands. For each hand, the participant having the highest ranked hand is determined to be the winner. Payoffs are made to the winners. |
| US08960671B2 |
Sheet-conveying device halting brushed motor in different methods
A sheet conveying device includes a conveying path, a brushed motor, a motor drive unit, a conveying unit, a sensor, and a processor. The motor drive unit is configured to rotate and halt the brushed motor. The conveying unit is configured to convey a sheet along the conveying path by driving force of the motor. The sensor is configured to detect the sheet. The processor is configured to function as a halting unit configured to control the motor drive unit to halt the brushed motor in different methods depending on detection result of the sensor. |
| US08960669B2 |
Method for dot printing on cards
A method and dot printer for dot printing on a card. A method includes receiving a card on a plate-like element of a carriage in a manner that a lateral movement of the card one of on or above the plate-like element is stopped by an abutment element, moving the plate-like element and card in a direction crosswise to the lateral movement until a main side of the card abuts a first abutment surface of an abutment structure and a main edge of the plate-like carrier abuts a second abutment surface of the abutment structure. The first abutment surface and the second abutment surface are not coplanar. The method also includes transporting the plate-like element and the card in a direction away from the abutment structure to a printing station and activating the printing station for dot printing on the card. |
| US08960666B2 |
Method and device for the generation and/or conveyance of a shingled stream of flat, flexible objects
A device for the generation of a shingled stream of flat, flexible objects along a conveyor path, wherein successive objects develop an overlap with a length, includes a first and a second suction and conveyor device having a first and second unit, respectively, and each having at least one conveyor belt. The first and second units are each configured to generate a vacuum through a whirlwind to attract at least one of the objects and are each disposed in a casing having a suction aperture. The second suction and conveyor device is disposed downstream from the first suction and conveyor device in a direction of the conveyor path with a mutual offset corresponding to the length of the overlap and is disposed at an angle relative to the direction of the conveyor path. The first and second suction are separated by a spacing in a transversal direction. |
| US08960665B2 |
Sheet conveyance apparatus and image forming apparatus
A sheet conveyance apparatus includes a first conveyance roller configured to convey a sheet, a second conveyance roller configured to convey the sheet at a variable speed ranging from a first sheet conveyance speed to a second sheet conveyance speed wherein the first sheet conveyance speed is less than a sheet conveyance speed of the first conveyance roller and the second sheet conveyance speed is greater than the sheet conveyance speed of the first conveyance roller, a driving unit configured to drive the second conveyance roller, and a control unit configured to control the driving unit. |
| US08960657B2 |
Systems and methods for connecting an ingot to a wire saw
Systems and methods are disclosed for connecting an ingot to a wire saw with an ingot holder, a bond beam, and a bar. The bar has an angled mating surface that engages a recessed surface formed in a slot of the bond beam. Mechanical fasteners are used to connect the tee bar to the ingot holder. The angle of the mating surface with respect to the recessed surface of the slot prevents deformation of the bond beam and prevents compromising the integrity of the adhesive bond between the ingot and the bond beam. |
| US08960656B2 |
Device for handling workpieces
The device is used to retain workpieces, has a tong-like design, and is provided with two tong arms. The tong arms are retained by a tong base and can be arranged at least in an open position and in a closed position. The tong base is retained by a main element. When a specified actuating force is applied, the tong base is released and can be pivoted relative to the main element within a certain range. Respectively one movable counter-element is arranged adjacent to two lateral surfaces of the tong base. The counter-elements are retained in a starting position by means of at least one spring. |
| US08960652B2 |
Column internal support structure
A column structure (1) for the containment of high surface area packing (5) and absorbent liquid reagent for the removal of a target gas from a gas stream having an elongate upright wall structure defining a perimeter comprising a closed simple polygon or closed simple curve; a support structure extending inwardly from the perimeter of the column towards the top thereof; and slung tensile members (16) attached to the wall structure of the top support structure and extending downwardly to support at least internal column structure within the walls of the column. |
| US08960647B2 |
Barrier system
A barrier system including a guardrail, a support to hold the guardrail in position and a fastener to attach the guardrail to the support, wherein the support has a weakened zone to facilitate the fastener releasing from the support when the support is subject to impact forces. |
| US08960644B2 |
Valve seat structure of fluid control valve
In a valve seat structure of a fluid control valve comprising a valve element, a body formed with an inlet port and an outlet port, and a valve seat member provided in the body, the fluid control valve being configured to bring the valve element into or out of contact with the valve seat member to control the flow of a fluid, the valve seat member is formed in a ring shape and includes a valve seat portion with which the valve element will come into our out of contact. Assuming that a thickness of the valve seat portion in a radial direction of the valve seat member is a first thickness t1 (0 |
| US08960643B2 |
Double offset ball member usable in ball valves and other flow control applications
Ball valves and ball valve components usable to control the flow of fluids and methods for manufacturing said ball valve components. Ball valves include a ball member comprising two curved segments of like shape and size, which are integrally joined and disposed symmetrically to one another relative to the axis of rotation of the ball member. A bore extends through the joined first and the second curved segments, wherein the first end of the bore is located on the first curved segment and the second end of the bore is located on the second curved segment. Each curved segment is disposed symmetrically to one another, relative to the axis of rotation. The area of separation, between the curved segments, defines shoulders of like configuration, wherein each shoulder is located symmetrically with respect to the other relative to the ball member's axis of rotation. |
| US08960640B2 |
Fast intake valve
The invention provides a fast intake valve that comprises an intake pipe, a middle connector, a rear connector, an intake pipe sealing ring, a receiving pipe, an intake sealing ring, a support frame and a spring. The invention has simple structure and can intake water rapidly and conveniently. |
| US08960637B2 |
Electric expansion valve
An electronically controlled stepper motor valve utilizes an electric feed through assembly providing electrical connection between the stepper motor and a mating cable connector; wherein the electric feed through assembly includes four individual leads that are sequenced to allow the mating cable connector to be installed in any of four positions, each 90 degrees apart. The ability to use a 90 degree elbow style cable connector allows the EEV footprint to be minimized which provides an advantage when the electric expansion valve is installed in the tight confines of a package system. |
| US08960636B1 |
Edge form system for forming simulated stone coping
An edge form system has a molded liner and a form board. The molded liner has a textured imprinting on the inner surface for forming a simulated stone coping and a first interlocking element. The form board has a base for mounting the form board on a vertical structure, a coping support wall, a liner receiver, and a second interlocking element for interlocking with the first interlocking element. |
| US08960635B2 |
Rafter hook for fastening tool
A fastening tool rafter hook system supporting a power tool includes a power tool round section proximate to a tool handle. The round section has multiple pairs of indexing apertures, each positioned incrementally from a successive pair. A two piece rafter hook system includes: a first piece having a rafter hook band with a semi-circular band portion positioned in direct contact with the round section; and a second piece defining an “L” shaped rafter hook. The rafter hook includes: a first hook portion having first and second indexing bolts connected to the first hook portion; and a second hook portion oriented normal to the first portion. The first and second indexing bolts create detent connections when engaged with the indexing apertures. Connection of the first and second indexing bolts to any pair of indexing apertures releasably retains the rafter hook at selectable predefined orientations on the round section. |
| US08960629B2 |
Rearview mounting device
A rearview device mounting assembly includes a bracket having a windshield engagement surface. The bracket further includes a neck with a ball. The ball has at least one of either a knurled patch or a striation and the ball is configured to engage a socket in the rearview device. The socket of the rearview device includes fingerlike projections and a ball engaging surface. The ball engaging surface has raised features to frictionally engage the ball and minimize or eliminate droop of the rearview device. |
| US08960623B2 |
Adapter apparatus for portable handheld device
An adapter apparatus interfaces an accessory including a portable handheld device and a mounting product for a physically secure and stabilized assembly for stabilized, hands-free functionality. The adapter apparatus is ergonomically designed to enable optimal viewing angles of a portable handheld device as well as facilitate neutral postures of a user through elevation of the portable handheld device to improve head and neck posture of a user thereby increasing comfort and minimizing neck pain of the user. |
| US08960622B2 |
Table-mounted surgical instrument stabilizers
A surgical instrument stabilizer system that includes an articulating boom that is releasably connectable to a surgical table side rail. The articulating boom includes an actuator, a multi-directional flexible arm having a first end region attached to the actuator, and a cable extending through the flexible arm. The cable has one end region connected to the actuator and another end region connected to a preload tensioning mechanism. The actuator is operable to tighten and loosen the cable, and the preload tensioning mechanism maintains an amount of tension in the cable when the actuator loosens the cable. The system further includes a surgical instrument-supporting member that is attached to a second end region of the flexible arm and is configured to releasably retain a surgical instrument. |