Document Document Title
US08975094B2 Test structure and method to facilitate development/optimization of process parameters
A test structure and method are provided to facilitate developing or optimizing a fabrication process by determining values of one or more lithography process parameters for use in semiconductor device fabrication. The test structure is configured to facilitate determining values of the one or more fabrication process parameters, and includes a plurality of test structure components arranged on a substrate according to a test pattern. The test pattern may be based on: varying distances between the test structure components according to a first rule; varying distances between centers of the test structure components according to a second rule; and/or varying at least one dimension of the test structure components according to a third rule. The method may further include determining dimensions of one or more components of the test structure using, for example, scatterometry, and using the dimensions of the components to ascertain one or more fabrication process parameters.
US08975089B1 Method for forming MTJ memory element
The present invention is directed to a method for forming a magnetic tunnel junction (MTJ) memory element comprising the steps of providing a substrate having a bottom electrode layer thereon; depositing an MTJ layer stack on top of the bottom electrode layer; forming a composite hard mask comprising a bottom conducting mask disposed on top of the MTJ layer stack and a top conducting mask with a dielectric mask interposed therebetween; etching the MTJ layer stack with the composite hard mask thereon to form a patterned MTJ while consuming the top conducting mask, thereby exposing the dielectric mask on top; and trimming the patterned MTJ with the bottom conducting mask and the dielectric mask thereon by ion beam etching to remove redeposited material and damaged material from surface of the patterned MTJ while consuming most of the dielectric mask.
US08975087B2 Longitudinal assay
Embodiments of the invention include methods for detecting and determining the concentrations of macro and small molecules, including bio-molecules, in a liquid or gaseous sample.
US08975086B2 Method for treating or preventing bladder cancer using the DEPDC1 polypeptide
The present invention provides therapeutic agents and methods for treating cancer using the polypeptides composed of an amino acid sequence which includes a polypeptide fragment of DEPDC1. The polypeptides of the present invention can be introduced into cancer cells by modifying the polypeptides with transfection agents such as poly-arginine. Furthermore, the present invention provides methods of screening for therapeutic agents or compounds useful in inhibition of the DEPDC1/ZN-F224 complex formation or the treatment of cancer. The present invention also provides siRNAs targeting the ZNF224 gene, which are suggested to be useful in the treatment of bladder cancer.
US08975084B2 Determination of cores or building blocks and reconstruction of parent molecules in heavy petroleums and other hydrocarbon resources
A method for the determination of the aromatic cores or building blocks of a vacuum resid by controlled fragmentation. Molecules can be generated from these building blocks.
US08975083B2 Oil life measurement
Rotatable bomb device having a stationary hollow housing and a rotatable component inside the housing provides for very good temperature calibration, temperature recording and, when desired, sample control. The device can have at least one of an insulating lower disc or washer; a plurality of staggered heating bands encompassing a stationary housing; a dry scan port; a rear upper and/or lower port; and an extraction/injection fitting for access to the interior of the stationary housing. The device may be used to react or attempt to react substance(s), for example, generally as in ASTM Method D2272 testing of turbine oil.
US08975081B2 Biomarker for monitoring development of diseases and assessing the efficacy of therapies
The invention concerns a method for monitoring the development of a disease in a patient, and for assessing the efficacy of a therapy influencing on the CD73 level or activity in the patient, in particular a cytokine therapy or a statin therapy. CD73 in a tissue fluid drawn from the patient is used as a biomarker. The invention concerns also methods for determining of CD73 protein in a sample drawn from an individual's tissue fluid.
US08975080B2 Biosensor calibration method
A biosensor calibration method configured to measure a concentration of a specific substance contained in sample liquid to be measured, including: a first step configured to acquire a first output value that is output by the biosensor when first calibration liquid is brought into contact with the biosensor; a second step configured to acquire a second output value that is output by the biosensor when second calibration liquid having a different concentration from that of the first calibration liquid is continuously brought into contact with the biosensor after the first step and determine time for replacement of the biosensor on the basis of the first output value and the second output value.
US08975079B2 Reducible polymers for nonviral gene delivery
Provided herein are biodegradable copolymers and nanoplex delivery systems comprising the same and a cargo molecule, such as a nucleic acid, a polynucleotide or other biomolecule. The biodegradable copolymers may comprise a reducible polymer linearly modified with lysine, such as a linear lysine-modified N,N′-cystamine bisacrylamide. The biodegradable copolymers also may be conjugated to a sequestering moiety, such as dietheylamine. The biodegradable copolymers also may comprise one or both of a targeting moiety and one or more moieties to facilitate endosomal escape. Also provided are methods for treating a pathophysiological condition and for increasing biocompatibility of a polymeric delivery system upon delivery to a subject using the biodegradable copolymers and nanoplexes.
US08975075B2 Hemostatic device
A hemostatic device, method of making, and method of using for internal and external applications to wounds in the body of a patient to induce hemostasis at an anatomical site.
US08975073B2 Microfluidic device comprising silk films coupled to form a microchannel
A microfluidic device includes, in one embodiment, a first silk film coupled to a second silk film with at least one microchannel therebetween.
US08975070B2 Process for producing cytotoxic lymphocyte
The present invention relates to a method for preparing a cytotoxic lymphocyte characterized in that the method comprises the step of carrying out at least one of induction, maintenance and expansion of a cytotoxic lymphocyte in the presence of fibronectin, a fragment thereof or a mixture thereof.
US08975069B2 Method for identifying antigen-specific regulatory T cells
A method of identifying an antigen-specific regulatory T cell (Treg) from a subject is discussed wherein the method comprises quantitatively or qualitatively detecting co-expression of each of cell markers CD4, CD25 and CD134, or alternatively, each of cell markers CD8, CD25 and CD137, as well as one or more cell markers selected from the group of Treg cell markers consisting of CD39, CD73, CD127, CTLA-4 and Foxp3 on a cell in a suitable lymphocyte-containing sample from the subject in response to exposure to a target antigen. Also discussed are methods of isolating and expanding the identified antigen-specific Treg population, which may permit antigen-specific Treg cell therapy.
US08975067B2 Self-contained sterilization indicators including a neutralizer for residual oxidizing sterilant
Sterilization indicators that include a neutralizer, such indicators useful for testing the effectiveness of a sterilization procedure by measuring the activity of an active enzyme whose activity is correlated with the survival of microorganisms.
US08975055B2 Reduced-fat foodstuffs and cooking oils, and methods for making same
The present invention relates to a newly identified lipase belonging to the Ustilaginaceae family of Basidomycetes and variants thereof. The invention also relates to polynucleotides encoding the lipase and the variants thereof. The invention further relates to procedures for producing the lipase, and variants thereof, polypeptides and polynucleotides. The invention further relates to lipase variants with an increased trans-selectivity. The invention further relates to lipase variants with a preference for long chain fatty acid esters or carboxylic acid moieties with a chain length greater than C12. The invention further relates to a method of reducing, or eliminating, trans-fatty acids from liquid oil stable enough for frying systems.
US08975053B2 Thermostable catalase
An object is to efficiently produce thermostable catalase at low cost by expressing it as a recombinant protein in large quantity.A recombinant microorganism capable of efficiently expressing thermostable catalase can be provided by obtaining a DNA necessary for efficiently producing it as a recombinant protein, and the thermostable catalase can be efficiently produced at low cost by cultivating the obtained recombinant microorganism. Hydrogen peroxide can be efficiently decomposed at low cost, even at high temperature, by treating a solution containing hydrogen peroxide with the thermostable catalase of the present invention.
US08975051B2 Enhanced production of isoprene using host cells having decreased ispA activity
This invention relates to recombinant microorganisms capable of producing isoprene and isoprene production with the use of such recombinant microorganism with good efficiency. In this invention, functional activity of the ispA gene is altered to reduce the production of isoprenoid molecules in recombinant cells engineered to produce isoprene or in cells otherwise susceptible to isoprenoid accumulation during fermentation. This decreased ispA gene functional activity enables enhanced synthesis of isoprene in a host microorganism.
US08975049B2 Biofuel production by recombinant microorganisms
Provided herein are metabolically-modified microorganisms useful for producing biofuels. More specifically, provided herein are methods of producing high alcohols including isobutanol, 1-butanol, 1-propanol, 2-methyl-1-butanol, 3-methyl-1-butanol and 2-phenylethanol from a suitable substrate.
US08975044B2 Polynucleotides encoding for frizzled-binding agents and uses thereof
Novel anti-cancer agents, including, but not limited to, antibodies, that bind to human frizzled receptors are provided. Novel epitopes within the human frizzled receptors which are suitable as targets for anti-cancer agents are also identified. Methods of using the agents or antibodies, such as methods of using the agents or antibodies to inhibit Wnt signaling and/or inhibit tumor growth are further provided.
US08975037B2 Methods of inhibiting tumor cell aggressiveness using the microenvironment of human embryonic stem cells
The invention provides compositions comprising one or more isolated factors from a microenvironment of human embryonic stem cells (hESCs), including, but not limited to, Lefty and inhibitors of Nodal. The invention also provides methods of utilizing factors derived from human embryonic stem cells (hESC) and their microenvironment to treat and prevent tumor formation and progression and to inhibit tumor cell aggressiveness. The invention further provides methods of inhibiting tumor cell growth and/or treating aggressive tumors in a mammal comprising administering to the mammal, having at least one tumor cell present in its body, an effective amount of an inhibitor of Nodal activity.
US08975030B2 Method for cancer detection
The present invention relates to the diagnosis and treatment of cancer, and specifically to a method of diagnosing the presence, status or metastasis of cancer by detecting plasma Hsp90α having the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO:1 as a tumor marker. In addition, the present invention also relates to a method for the treatment of cancer and metastasis.
US08975027B2 Methods and compositions related to continuous flow thermal gradient PCR
Disclosed are compositions and a method for amplification and detection of nucleic acid sequences based on continuous flow thermal gradient PCR.
US08975024B2 Methods for sequencing polynucleotides
The invention relates to methods and systems for sequencing and constructing a high resolution physical map of a polynucleotide. In accordance with the invention, nucleotide sequences are determined at the ends of restriction fragments produced by a plurality of digestions with a plurality of combinations of restriction endonucleases so that a pair of nucleotide sequences is obtained for each restriction fragment. A physical map of the polynucleotide is constructed by ordering the pairs of sequences by matching the identical sequences among the pairs.
US08975021B2 Method for detecting rhabdomyosarcoma using sample derived from body fluid
The present invention provides a method for detecting rhabdomyosarcoma comprising evaluating expression of at least one kind of miRNA selected from the group consisting of hsa-miR-1, hsa-miR-133a, hsa-miR-133b, and hsa-miR-206 in a sample derived from body fluid.
US08975012B2 Multi-layer articles capable of forming color images and methods of forming color images
Multi-layer articles are described that are capable of forming color images. The articles include at least six layers, four thermally activatable layers (layers 1-4) and two blocking layers (layer 5 and 6). The layers are arranged such that layer 5 is disposed between layers 1 and 2 and layer 6 is disposed between layers 3 and 4. Thermally activatable layers 1 and 2 are activatable upon exposure to light of a first write wavelength, and blocking layer 5 is adapted to at least partially block light of the first write wavelength. Thermally activatable layers 3 and 4 are activatable upon exposure to light of a second write wavelength, and blocking layer 6 is adapted to at least partially block light of the second write wavelength. At least one, and possibly all of the thermally activatable layers include a light to heat convertor composition and a color changing compound. Some of the thermally activatable layers may be a group of layers arranged to selectively reflect light by constructive or destructive interference to provide a first reflective characteristic, the group of layers also having a first absorption characteristic suitable to, upon exposure to light comprising a write wavelength, absorptively heat the first group of layers by an amount sufficient to change the first reflective characteristic to a second reflective characteristic while maintaining the structural integrity of the group of layers.
US08975009B2 Track processing to remove organic films in directed self-assembly chemo-epitaxy applications
A method is provided for preparing a prepatterned substrate for use in DSA integration. In one example, the method includes removing a radiation-sensitive material pattern overlying a patterned cross-linked polystyrene copolymer layer by a) exposure to a solvent vapor, b) exposure to a liquid solvent, and c) repeating steps a)-b) until the radiation-sensitive material pattern is completely removed. In another example, the method includes removing a neutral layer by affecting removal of an underlying patterned radiation-sensitive material layer, which includes swelling the neutral layer; and removing the radiation-sensitive material pattern and the swollen neutral layer in portions by exposing the swollen layer and pattern to a developer solution. Swelling the neutral layer includes a) exposure to a solvent vapor; b) exposure to a liquid solvent; and c) repeating steps a)-b) until the neutral layer is sufficiently swollen to allow penetration of the developing solution through the swollen neutral layer.
US08975002B2 Positive resist composition for immersion exposure and pattern forming method
A positive resist composition for immersion exposure includes the following (A) to (D): (A) a resin capable of decomposing by an action of an acid to increase a solubility of the resin in an alkali developer; (B) a compound capable of generating an acid upon irradiation with an actinic ray or radiation; (C) a resin having at least either one of a fluorine atom and a silicon atom; and (D) a mixed solvent containing at least one kind of a solvent selected from the group consisting of solvents represented by any one of the following formulae (S1) to (S3) as defined in the specification, in which a total amount of the at least one kind of the solvent is from 3 to 20 mass % based on all solvents of the mixed solvent (D).
US08974999B1 Self-cleaning toner composition
Toner compositions that having spherical particles and provide stable density. The toner compositions also comprise and deliver a silicone oil to the cleaning subsystem in the image forming apparatus by incorporating an inorganic fine powder additive package that has been mixed with silicone oil in a manner such that the toner is blended with the inorganic fine powder and silicone oil.
US08974998B2 Method of image forming with a photoreceptor and toner
A method of forming an image including an electrophotographic photoreceptor and a toner, wherein a photosensitive layer in the electrophotographic photoreceptor includes an undercoat layer including metal oxide particles, a charge generation layer including hydroxygallium phthalocyanine, and a charge transport layer, and the toner contains toner matrix particles formed in an aqueous medium; the toner has a volume median diameter (Dv50) of from 4.0 μm to 7.0 μm; and the relationship between the volume median diameter (Dv50) and the percentage in number (Dns) of toner particles having a particle diameter of from 2.00 μm to 3.56 μm satisfies—0.0517EXP(22.4/Dv50)≦Dns≦0.233EXP(17.3/Dv50) where Dv50 is the volume median diameter (μm) of the toner, and Dns is the percentage in number of toner particles having a particle diameter of from 2.00 μm to 3.56 μm.
US08974994B2 Magnetic carrier, two-component developer, and developer for replenishment
Provided is a magnetic carrier satisfactory in terms of the suppression of leakage and solid carrier adhesion, charge-providing performance, and developability. The magnetic carrier is a magnetic carrier, including filled core particles of which pores of porous magnetic core particles are filled with a filling resin composition, and having a surface coated with a coating resin composition, in which the coating resin composition comprises a coating resin and a carbon black, an amount of the coating resin composition is 2.0 parts by mass or more and 5.0 parts by mass or less with respect to 100.0 parts by mass of the filled core particles; and a particle diameter of the carbon black in the coating resin composition Pv at a maximum frequency in a particle size distribution based on a volume of the carbon black is 1.0 μm or more and 10.0 μm or less.
US08974993B2 UV red fluorescent EA toner
The present disclosure relates to a toner design for a clear UV red fluorescence toner having a high lanthanide complex pigment loading, including methods of making the fluorescence toner using a saccharide or a sugar acid to avoid complexation of lanthanide ions from the pigment, with lower aggregation and coalescence temperatures in the preparation of toner particles, where the particles exhibit a narrow size distribution and good xerographic performance.
US08974988B2 Mask and method for forming the same
A photomask includes a low thermal expansion material (LTEM) substrate, a patterned opaque layer over the LTEM substrate, and a patterned capping layer over the opaque layer. The patterned capping layer includes a transition metal material for suppressing haze growth, such as metal oxide, metal nitride, or metal oxynitride. The material in the capping layer reacts with a hydrogenic compound from a lithography environment to for an atomic level hydrogen passivation layer. The passivation layer has superior ability to suppress photo-induced haze defect growth on the photomask surface, to improve production cycle time and reduce the production cost.
US08974987B2 Photomask and methods for manufacturing and correcting photomask
The present invention provides a halftone mask comprising an assist pattern and a manufacturing method of the halftone mask, which uses an ArF excimer laser as an exposing source, is used for a projection exposure by an off axis illumination, does not resolve the assist pattern while keeping the focal depth magnification effect as the assist pattern, and may form a transferred image having high contrast of a main pattern. A photomask is a photomask comprising the main pattern which is transferred to a transfer-target surface by the projection exposure and the assist pattern which is formed nearby the main pattern and not transferred, characterized in that the main pattern and the assist pattern are each constituted from a semi-transparent film made of the same material, a retardation of 180° is generated between the light transmitting through the main pattern and the light transmitting through a transparent region of a transparent substrate, and a predetermined retardation within the scope of 70° to 115° is generated between the light transmitting through the assist pattern and the light transmitting through the transparent region of the transparent substrate.
US08974983B2 Electrical conductive member and polymer electrolyte fuel cell using the same
An electrical conductive member includes: an electrical conductive structure including: a substrate; an electrical conductive carbon layer provided on at least one surface of the substrate and containing electrical conductive carbon; and a middle layer interposed between the substrate and the electrical conductive carbon layer. An intensity ratio R (ID/IG) of a D-band peak intensity (ID) to a G-band peak intensity (IG) measured by a Raman scattering spectroscopic analysis in the electrical conductive carbon layer is between 1.4 and 1.9.
US08974977B2 Wet side paper for fuel cell humidifier
A glass fiber-based paper diffusion medium, as well as a membrane humidifier for a fuel cell and method for humidifying a fuel cell using the provided glass fiber-based paper diffusion medium. The diffusion medium is a flexible, resin-bonded glass fiber paper impregnated with 26-55% cured liquid phenolic resin and having a thickness of 100-110 μm and a Gurley permeability of at least 100 cfm.
US08974975B2 Method to correct for permeation uncertainties using a concentration sensor
A method for determining a rate of accumulation of nitrogen in an anode side of a fuel cell stack. The method includes determining a concentration of nitrogen in an anode loop and determining a number of moles of nitrogen in the anode loop. The method also includes determining a rate of accumulation of nitrogen in the anode loop and determining a permeability factor of nitrogen through fuel cell membranes in the fuel cell stack using the determined rate of accumulation of nitrogen in the anode loop.
US08974974B1 Class of solid-state electrolytes for rechargeable lithium batteries
A solid-state electrolyte for rechargeable lithium batteries. The solid state electrolyte comprises a large unsaturated aromatic anion and a lithium charge carrier. The large unsaturated aromatic anion is selected from a di-lithium phthalocyanine and a di-lithium porphyrin, wherein one of the lithium ions of the unsaturated aromatic anion is replaced with a nitrogenous cation.
US08974971B2 Positive electrode for rechargeable lithium ion battery, rechargeable lithium ion battery, and battery module
A positive electrode for a rechargeable lithium ion battery includes a mixture layer including a positive-electrode active material, a conducting agent, and a binder and a collector having the mixture layer formed on the surface thereof. The positive-electrode active material is a composite oxide having an olivine structure expressed by a formula LiaMxPO4 (where M represents a transition metal including at least one of Fe and Mn and a and x satisfy 0
US08974966B2 Negative electrode for lithium rechargeable battery and lithium rechargeable battery adopting the same
A negative electrode for a lithium rechargeable battery comprising: active material layers including metal-carbon combination active material particles including at least one active material selected from metal or metal oxide and carbonaceous active material, soft graphite particles, and a binder for binding the metal-carbon combination active material particles and the soft graphite particles; and a current collector on which surface the active material layers are stacked, wherein the soft graphite particles have a pellet density of 1.6˜1.9 g/cc when a pellet is formed at a press pressure of 1 ton/cm2, and the lithium rechargeable battery adopting the negative electrode.Soft graphite is used as a shock absorbing material when the bulk of the metal-carbon combination active material particles expands by the charging of the battery, which inhibits the expansion of bulk in the active material layer as a whole, maintains and attains a conductive contact point between the active material particles including the soft graphite particles, thereby preventing degradation of capacity due to a repetition of the charging and discharging of the battery and increasing the lifetime cycle of the battery.
US08974963B2 Lithium secondary battery
A lithium secondary battery includes: a positive electrode that contains a positive electrode active material; a negative electrode; and a nonaqueous electrolyte. The positive electrode active material is amorphous and is expressed by LixA[PaM1-a]yOz where, in the formula, A is Mn or Ni; M is a glass former element having an electronegativity lower than P; and x, y, a and z respectively satisfy 1
US08974961B2 Anode active material and secondary battery comprising the same
Disclosed are an anode active material for secondary batteries, capable of intercalating and deintercalating ions, comprising a core comprising a crystalline carbon-based material and a composite coating layer comprising one or more materials selected from the group consisting of low crystalline carbon and amorphous carbon, and a metal and/or a non-metal capable of intercalating and deintercalating ions, wherein the composite coating layer comprises a matrix comprising one component selected from one or more materials selected from the group consisting of low crystalline carbon and amorphous carbon and a metal and/or a non-metal capable of intercalating and deintercalating ions, and a filler comprising the other component, incorporated in the matrix, and a secondary battery comprising the anode active material.
US08974959B2 Multi-component intermetallic electrodes for lithium batteries
Multi-component intermetallic negative electrodes prepared by electrochemical deposition for non-aqueous lithium cells and batteries are disclosed. More specifically, the invention relates to composite intermetallic electrodes comprising two or more compounds containing metallic or metaloid elements, at least one element of which can react with lithium to form binary, ternary, quaternary or higher order compounds, these compounds being in combination with one or more other metals that are essentially inactive toward lithium and act predominantly, but not necessarily exclusively, to the electronic conductivity of, and as current collection agent for, the electrode. The invention relates more specifically to negative electrode materials that provide an operating potential between 0.05 and 2.0 V vs. metallic lithium.
US08974953B2 Rechargeable battery with a short circuit plate
A rechargeable battery includes an electrode assembly including a first electrode plate, a second electrode plate, and a separator between the first electrode plate and the second electrode plate; a case housing the electrode assembly; and a cap assembly coupled to the case, wherein the cap assembly includes a cap plate sealing the case and having a short circuit opening; a first short circuit plate installed at the short circuit opening of the cap plate; a second short circuit plate on an exterior of the cap plate and spaced from the cap plate to cover the short circuit opening; and a sealing layer between the second short circuit plate and the cap plate.
US08974952B2 Rechargeable battery
A rechargeable battery is disclosed. The rechargeable battery comprises: a central electrode portion comprising a positive electrode, a negative electrode and a separator; a first electrode portion extending from a first end of the central electrode portion; a second electrode portion extending from a second end of the central electrode portion opposite the first end; a central case enclosing the central electrode portion; a first electrode case enclosing the first electrode portion, wherein the first electrode case is coupled to the central case such that an overlapping part of the first electrode case encloses a part of the central electrode portion at the first end, and the central case encloses the overlapping part of the first electrode case; and a second electrode case enclosing the second electrode portion, wherein the second electrode case is coupled to the central case such that an overlapping part of the second electrode case encloses a part of the central electrode portion at the second end, and the central case encloses the overlapping part of the second electrode case.
US08974950B2 Connection structure for battery module, battery module and method of connecting terminals of battery modules
A connection structure for a battery module includes a fastening member and a space forming member. The fastening member presses a connecting portion of a bus bar against an electrode of the battery module to fasten the bus bar to the electrode. The space forming member has an elastic member disposed between the connecting portion of the bus bar and the electrode. The space forming member is configured to provide an insulating space between the connecting portion of the bus bar and the electrode. The elastic member is elastically deformed with a pressing force applied from the fastening member to the connecting portion of the bus bar to cancel the insulating space.
US08974946B2 Coating for separator or cathode of lithium—sulfur or silicon—sulfur battery
A battery with a sulfur-containing cathode, an anode, and a separator between the cathode and the anode has a coating comprising a single-lithium ion conductor on at least one of the cathode or the separator.
US08974943B2 Power battery pack cooling apparatus
Using a simple structure to facilitate a flow path delivering coolant in an even and well-distributed manner, providing efficient and effective cooling for power battery packs in electric vehicles. The heat exchange apparatus is composed of an array of cooling duct plates, with ducts for coolant to flow within, with front and back covers and their respective rubber sheets facilitating the changing of direction of the coolant, providing a pathway for the coolant to flow throughout the array. Individual cells of the battery pack will be fitted in the spaces between these ducts, connected in series by a novel system of electricity-conducting clips, forming a structure where a comprehensive, well-distributed and compact cooling pathway can exist within the battery pack.
US08974935B2 Secondary battery module
A secondary battery module including a plurality of secondary battery cells, each secondary battery cell including electrodes on one side thereof and a vent on the same side as the electrodes, a module frame coupled to the plurality of secondary battery cells and fixing the secondary battery cells in a predetermined arrangement, the module frame including a plurality of vent holes corresponding to the vents of the secondary battery cells, and protrusions disposed around the vent holes and protruding toward the vents, wherein each vent of the secondary battery cells is coupled to one of the protrusions of the module frame.
US08974923B2 Organic compound and organic light-emitting device having the same
The present invention provides a novel organic compound that is chemically stable and can be used as a host material for phosphorescence emission.The present invention provides a benzimidazolyl carbazole compound shown by Formula [1] described in the description.
US08974922B2 Phenylcarbazole-based compounds and fluorene-based compounds and organic light emitting device and flat panel display device comprising the same
Provided are an organic light emitting device including: a substrate; a first electrode; a second electrode; and an organic layer interposed between the first electrode and the second electrode and including an emission layer, wherein one of the first electrode and the second electrode is a reflective electrode and the other is a semitransparent or transparent electrode, and wherein the organic layer includes a layer having at least one of the compounds having at least one carbazole group, and a flat panel display device including the organic light emitting device. The organic light emitting device has low driving voltage, excellent current density, high brightness, excellent color purity, high efficiency, and long lifetime.
US08974915B2 Block copolymer and nanofiller composites
PU/ZnO nanocomposites are provided wherein the addition of less than 1 vol % 33 nm ZnO nanoparticles into a PU matrix effect a decrease in the Young's Modulus and storage modulus of the polymer, while simultaneously effecting an increase glass transition temperature of the polymer. Detailed experiments are described (e.g., FTIR, DMTA, FESEM and AFM) that suggest that the reaction between hydroxyl groups of the ZnO nanoparticles and isocyanate groups of the polyurethane prepolymer disrupts the self-assembly of the phase separation in PU. Phase separation is responsible for the good mechanical properties of PU. Further, detailed experiments suggest that the increase of the glass transition temperature results from the crosslinking effect of the ZnO nanoparticles.
US08974910B2 Treatment of wood for the production of building structures and other wood products
Compositions and devices for the production of treated wood products are disclosed. A moisture exchange container for treating a plurality of wood pieces with a chemical formulation of interest is described. Also, an adhesive suitable for gluing wood pieces that have been treated, or that are going to be treated, with a chemical formulation of interest is described. Also disclosed are methods and systems using the devices and compositions of the present invention, and treated wood products.
US08974903B2 Porous cross-linked polyimide-urea networks
Porous cross-linked polyimide-urea networks are provided. The networks comprise a subunit comprising two anhydride end-capped polyamic acid oligomers in direct connection via a urea linkage. The oligomers (a) each comprise a repeating unit of a dianhydride and a diamine and a terminal anhydride group and (b) are formulated with 2 to 15 of the repeating units. The subunit was formed by reaction of the diamine and a diisocyanate to form a diamine-urea linkage-diamine group, followed by reaction of the diamine-urea linkage-diamine group with the dianhydride and the diamine to form the subunit. The subunit has been cross-linked via a cross-linking agent, comprising three or more amine groups, at a balanced stoichiometry of the amine groups to the terminal anhydride groups. The subunit has been chemically imidized to yield the porous cross-linked polyimide-urea network. Also provided are wet gels, aerogels, and thin films comprising the networks, and methods of making the networks.
US08974902B2 Joined body and method of producing joined body
A joined body includes: an adherend; a primer layer provided on the adherend; and a pressure-sensitive adhesive layer provided on the primer layer. The primer layer contains, as an effective component, at least one of chlorinated polypropylene and chlorinated polyethylene and an amount of the effective component per unit area is 0.5 [mg/cm2] or less. The surface of the adherend may be formed of at least one of polypropylene (PP), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), and ethylene-propylene-diene rubber (EPDM).
US08974900B2 Transparent conductive film with hardcoat layer
Disclosed is a transparent conductive film that comprises at least one carrier layer disposed on the opposite side of a transparent support from at least one conductive layer, and at least one hardcoat layer disposed on the at least one carrier layer. Such films, which exhibit superior hardness, adhesion, and curl, are useful for electronics applications.
US08974893B2 Artificial microstructure and artificial electromagnetic material using the same
An artificial microstructure comprises two “I” shaped metal wire structures. The two “I” shaped metal wire structures are separated to each other. The present invention also discloses an artificial electromagnetic material using the artificial microstructures. The artificial electromagnetic material has high resonance frequency, wide effective frequency band and has a wide application range.
US08974891B2 Thermal protection systems comprising flexible regions of inter-bonded lamina of ceramic matrix composite material and methods of forming the same
Methods of forming ceramic matrix composite structures include joining at least two lamina together to form a flexible ceramic matrix composite structure. Ceramic matrix composite structures include at least one region of reduced inter-laminar bonding at a selected location between lamina thereof. Thermal protection systems include at least one seal comprising a ceramic matrix composite material and have at least one region of reduced inter-laminar bonding at a selected location between lamina used to form the seal. Methods of forming thermal protection systems include providing one or more such seals between adjacent panels of a thermal protection system.
US08974888B2 Preventing conductive anodic filament (CAF) formation by sealing discontinuities in glass fiber bundles
An enhanced substrate for making a printed circuit board (PCB) includes a silane applied to the ends of glass fibers in via holes. In one embodiment, during a plated through-hole (PTH) via fabrication process, glass fiber bundles exposed in a drilled through-hole are selectively sealed. For example, after the through-hole is drilled in a substrate, the substrate may be subjected to an aqueous silane bath (e.g., an organo trialkoxysilane in an aqueous solution of an acid that acts as a catalyst) to deposit a layer of silane on the exposed glass fiber bundle ends. For example, trialkoxy groups of the silane may react with exposed silanols on the glass to form a siloxane, which is further polymerized to form a silane polymer barrier layer on the exposed glass fiber ends. The barrier layer effectively seals the glass fiber bundles and eliminates the conductive anodic filament (CAF) pathway between PTH vias.
US08974886B2 Disbond resistant composite stiffener runout
The disclosure herein provides for disbond resistant stringer runouts. Various aspects may be used independently or in combination to mitigate disbonding associated with the stiffener runout under operational loads. Aspects include a stiffener runout having rounded base flange corners. A recessed notch may be incorporated within the base flange to provide a flange termination point that is forward of the web termination point, allowing the web to terminate prior to the base flange. The web may be trimmed from a full height to a reduced height at the web termination point. The base flange may be co-bonded to the underlying composite structure via a scarf joint. Perimeter clamp radius fillers may be used to concentrate a clamping force around the perimeter of the base flange.
US08974884B2 Part comprising a structure and a shape memory alloy element
A part includes a structure and at least one shape memory alloy element that is prestressed and embedded at least in part within said structure. The shape memory alloy is suitable for dissipating the mechanical energy of said structure when it vibrates in a given frequency band.
US08974882B2 Method for producing thermoplastic resin foamed blow-molded article and thermoplastic resin foamed blow-molded article
Provided is a hollow foamed blow-molded article having a high heat resistance, employing a thermoplastic resin composition containing a mixed resin of a polyphenylene ether resin and a polystyrene resin, as a base resin. The foamed blow-molded article, may be produced by extruding a foamable molten resin composition obtained by kneading the thermoplastic resin composition and a blowing agent to form a foamed parison, and blow molding the foamed parison. A glass transition temperature of the thermoplastic resin composition is 110° C. or higher. A melt viscosity of the thermoplastic resin composition at a temperature of the glass transition temperature+80° C. and at a shear rate of 100/sec is 3000 to 9500 Pa·s. The physical blowing agent is a blowing agent containing a hydrocarbon compound having 3-5 carbon atoms. A blending amount of the physical blowing agent is 0.4 to 1 mol per kg of the thermoplastic resin composition.
US08974879B2 Image transfer sheet and image recording material
There is provided an image transfer sheet, including: an image receiving layer; a bonding layer; a transparent support; and a substrate, in this order, wherein a peeling strength between the transparent support and the substrate is lower than a peeling strength between the image receiving layer and the bonding layer, and between the bonding layer and the transparent support.
US08974876B2 Printable paper, comprising water-resistant support
Disclosed is a printable paper comprising a water-resistant support having two optionally subbed sides and a single layer on at least one of said optionally subbed sides, wherein said single layer has no substantial compositional variation, has a layer thickness of at least 3 μm, a pore volume of at least 1.2 mL/m2 and comprises at least one porous pigment. Also disclosed is a process for producing such a printable paper and use thereof in printing.
US08974873B2 Devices and methods involving polymers aligned via interchain interactions
The present invention provides compositions, devices and methods related to the alignment of materials including polymers. In some cases, the present invention comprises the assembly of molecules (e.g., polymers) via intermolecular interactions to produce extended networks, which may have enhanced properties relative to the individual molecules. Such networks may be advantageous for use in electronics, photovoltaics, sensor applications, and the like. In some embodiments, the present invention may enhance the performance of certain optical devices, such as liquid crystal displays (e.g., color liquid crystal displays) by providing enhanced contrast ratio, faster response times, and/or lower operating voltage.
US08974870B2 Fabrication of porogen residues free low-k materials with improved mechanical and chemical resistance
Methods for fabricating porous low-k materials are provided, such as plasma enhanced chemically vapor deposited (PE-CVD) and chemically vapor deposited (CVD) low-k films used as dielectric materials in between interconnect structures in semiconductor devices. More specifically, a new method is provided which results in a low-k material with significant improved chemical stability and improved elastic modulus, for a porosity obtained.
US08974865B2 Component and a method of processing a component
A component and a method of processing a component are disclosed. The method includes providing a base metal having a feature, removing the feature to form a processed region, applying a first layer to the processed region, and applying a second layer to the first layer. The base metal, the first layer, and the second layer each have predetermined thermal expansion coefficients, yield strengths, and elongations. The processed component includes the first layer applied to a processed region of the base metal and a second layer applied to the first layer.
US08974860B2 Selective deposition of metal on plastic substrates
The present invention relates to a method of selectively plating a plastic article comprising a first polymer resin portion and a second polymer resin portion, wherein said first polymer resin portion is not rendered plateable by sulfonation and said second polymer resin portion is rendered plateable by sulfonation. The method comprises the steps of sulfonating the plastic article, activating the sulfonated plastic article to accept plating thereon, and plating the sulfonated and activated article in an electroless plating bath. The plastic article is selectively plated such that the first polymer resin portion does not have plating thereon and the second polymer resin portion is electrolessly plated.
US08974857B2 Methods for manufacturing of cobalt boride coating layer on surface of steels by using a pack cementation process
Disclosed is to a method for manufacturing a cobalt boride coating layer on the surface of iron-based metals by using a pack cementation process. In particular, the present invention relates to a method for manufacturing a cobalt boride coating layer by forming a composite coating layer on the surface of steels which is composed of an outmost layer having a composition of cobalt boride (Co2B) and an inner layer having a composition of iron-cobalt boride ((Fe,Co)2B). Since the cobalt boride coating layer is a compact coating layer having little defects such as pores, it can improve physical properties such as corrosion resistance, wear resistance and oxidation resistance of steels.
US08974855B2 Manganite perovskite ceramics, their precursors and methods for forming
Disclosed are a variety of ceramics having the formula Ln.sub.1−xM.sub.xMnO.sub.3, where 0.Itoreq.x.Itoreq.1 and where Ln is La, Ce, Pr, Nd, Pm, Sm, Eu, Gd, Tb, Dy, Ho, Er, Tm, Yb, Lu or Y; M is Ca, Sr, Ba, Cd, or Pb; manganite precursors for preparing the ceramics; a method for preparing the precursors; and a method for transforming the precursors into uniform, defect-free ceramics having magnetoresistance properties. The manganite precursors contain a sol and are derived from the metal alkoxides: Ln(OR).sub.3, M(OR).sub.2 and Mn(OR).sub.2, where R is C.sub.2 to C.sub.6 alkyl or C.sub.3 to C.sub.9 alkoxyalkyl, or C.sub.6 to C.sub.9 aryl. The preferred ceramics are films prepared by a spin coating method and are particularly suited for incorporation into a device such as an integrated circuit device.
US08974852B2 Method of manufacturing light-emitting device with fluorescent layer
A method of manufacturing a light-emitting device includes disposing a light-emitting element on a supporting member, dispersing a fluorescent substance having a particle diameter of 20 to 45 μm in a material of the light-transmitting member at a concentration of 40 to 60 wt %, dripping raw material for the fluorescent layer on the light-emitting element while lowering the viscosity of the raw material, and thermally curing the coated layer.
US08974842B2 Method for preparing a lipophilic vine extract
The present invention relates to a method for preparing a lipophilic extract from lignified portions of vine, such as shoots, stock and roots, characterized in that said method comprises a step for extraction from said lignified portions with an apolar solvent; to an extract obtained by such a method; to the use of such an extract as an excipient in a cosmetic composition; and to a cosmetic composition comprising such an extract.
US08974840B2 Milk-fermented product and use thereof
The present invention discloses a novel milk-fermented product comprising a group of peptides. The peptides are composed from no. 1 to no. 7 of the figure that is selected from the group consisting of FIG. 11 to FIG. 18. And the novel milk-fermented product is used for suppressing the reduction of bone mineral density. Therefore, the novel milk-fermented product could be a component of foods, nutrient supplement or medicine for treating or preventing osteoporosis.
US08974839B2 Dietary supplement system for multifunctional anti-aging management and method of use
A dietary supplement system includes a dietary supplement composition for oral administration by an individual in the morning, the composition, including (a) a telomere maintenance complex including: Purslane extract (aerial parts); Turmeric rhizome extract (95% curcuminoids); Quercetin dehydrate, Cayenne pepper fruit; Vanadium (as vanadyl sulfate); Fenugreek seed; Astragalus root extract, Omega fatty acid complex including linoleic acid; alpha-linolenic acid; oleic acid borage seed oil gamma-linolenic acid), evening primrose oil fish body oil (eicosapentaenoic acid; docosahexaenoic acid); (b) a calorie restriction mimetics and gene expression complex including Trans-resveratrol (from Polygonum cuspidatum root extract); Pterostilbene Fisetin 50% (Buxus microphlla Sieb (stem and leaf; Alpha lipoic acid, Coenzyme Q-10, Betaine HCl, Sulfur (from methylsulfonylmethane); L-Carnitine tartrate; L-Carnitine HCl, and (c) a free radical scavenger complex, including Green tea leaf extract catechin and polyphenols); Anthocyanins (from bilberry fruit and grape skin extracts).
US08974834B2 Method for producing reservoir layer for hoof treatment and reservoir layer
The present invention provides a kit or article of manufacture comprising as separate components: (a) a polymeric metal astringent; (b) an anionic surfactant; wherein combining component (a) and (b) provides a reaction product of said polymeric metal astringent and said anionic surfactant in form of a precipitate comprising said metal astringent and said anionic surfactant, for use in the preventive and/or therapeutic treatment of hoof or foot disease in cattle and other types of hoofed animals.
US08974832B1 Nutritional product composition for increasing human growth hormone and nitric oxide production
A nutritional product composition for increasing human growth hormone and nitric oxide production, to increase lean muscle mass, decrease body fat, and improve cardiovascular function and immune function. The nutritional product composition includes a synergistic blend of nutrients and a silica gel that increases the rate of metabolism of cells to increase the rate of absorption of the nutrients and elevate the production of the human growth hormone and elevate nitric oxide production. The synergistic blend of nutrients includes colostrum, L-arginine, potassium citrate and goji berry extract. The silica gel increases an absorption rate of the synergistic blend.
US08974828B2 Unit doses, aerosols, kits, and methods for treating heart conditions by pulmonary administration
Methods of treating atrial arrhythmia include administering an effective amount of at least one antiarrhythmic pharmaceutical agent to a patient in need thereof, such that the at least one antiarrhythmic pharmaceutical agent first enters the heart through the pulmonary vein to the left atrium. Other methods of treating atrial arrhythmia include administering by inhalation an effective amount of at least one antiarrhythmic pharmaceutical agent to a patient in need thereof. An amount of the at least one antiarrhythmic pharmaceutical agent may peak in the coronary sinus of the heart at a time ranging from 10 seconds to 30 minutes from initiation of the administering. Unit doses, aerosols, and kits are also contemplated.
US08974827B2 Nanoparticles comprising a non-ionizable cellulosic polymer and an amphiphilic non-ionizable block copolymer
A pharmaceutical composition comprises nanoparticles comprising a poorly water-soluble drug, a poorly aqueous soluble non-ionizable cellulosic polymer, and a poorly aqueous soluble polymeric amphiphilic non-ionizable block copolymer.
US08974825B2 Pharmaceutical compositions for gastrointestinal drug delivery
A novel pharmaceutical composition, which comprises a therapeutically effective amount of active principle(s) or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt or enantiomer or polymorph thereof, optionally one or more release controlling agent(s) and pharmaceutical acceptable excipient(s) thereof, wherein the composition is formulated to increase the residence time of the said pharmaceutical composition and/or active principle(s) in the gastrointestinal tract. A novel pharmaceutical composition comprising at least two entities wherein one entity is an immediate release/fast release and the other is controlled release. A pharmaceutical composition comprising at least two entities wherein one entity is an immediate release/fast release and the other is bioadhesive. A pharmaceutical composition comprising: at least two entities wherein one entity is controlled release and the other is bioadhesive All the three compositions are formulated to increase the residence time of active principle(s) in the gastrointestinal tract. A multilayered composition with active in a layer which provides immediate release or controlled release of active principles and layer providing increased residence time in the GI tract.
US08974824B2 Lanthanum composition
The present invention discloses stable, solid oral pharmaceutical composition comprising Lanthanum carbonate having more than 6 molecules of water per molecule of lanthanum carbonate and pharmaceutically acceptable carriers or diluents, wherein said carrier or diluent excludes monosaccharide/s or disaccharide/s, such that the composition has comparable in-vitro dissolution profile similar to that of FOSRENOL®.Also disclosed is a wet granulation process for making the same.
US08974811B2 Stabilized pharmaceutical formulations comprising antineoplastic compounds
The present invention relates to stabilized pharmaceutical formulations prepared from solutions comprising an antineoplastic compound having a cyclic or non-cyclic hydrazine, triazine, or tetrazine group, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and a stabilizer, wherein the stabilizer is an antioxidant and/or more susceptible to nucleophilic attack than the antineoplastic compound.
US08974807B2 Active agent combinations
The novel active compound combinations of extracts from seeds of the neem tree and the active compounds of groups (B) to (F) listed in the description have very good insecticidal and acaricidal properties.
US08974803B2 Injectable biomaterials
Injectable biomaterial compositions formed from tropoelastin for tissue repair and restoration. The compositions include a coalescence-controlling agent in the form of a polysaccharide or polysaccharide derivative, in an amount effective for providing the substance with the properties of flow, enabling injection.
US08974802B2 Medicament for the treatment of cancer of the pancreas
The invention relates to a suspension of red corpuscles encapsulating asparaginase as a medicament for treating pancreatic cancer. It in particular concerns a therapeutic composition or medicament intended for the treatment of pancreatic cancer, containing an effective quantity of such a suspension of red corpuscles.
US08974801B2 Long term sustained release pharmaceutical composition containing aqueous suspension of bisphosphonate
Pharmaceutical compositions for long-term sustained release of bisphosphonate drugs are provided. In one embodiment, the composition includes an aqueous suspension of a solid which includes a salt of a bisphosphonate drug and a salt of pentavalent phosphorus oxoacid. The compositions can be used to treat a variety of bone diseases, including osteoporosis.
US08974799B2 Conjugation of Staphylococcus aureus type 5 and type 8 capsular polysaccharides
The invention provides a process for preparing a conjugate of a S. aureus type 5 or type 8 capsular polysaccharide and a carrier molecule, comprising the steps of: (a) depolymerizing the capsular polysaccharide, to give a polysaccharide fragment; (b) oxidizing the fragment in order to introduce an aldehyde group into at least one saccharide residue in the fragment, to give an oxidized saccharide residue; and (c) coupling the oxidized saccharide residue to a carrier molecule via the aldehyde group, thereby giving the conjugate. The coupling in step (c) may be direct, or may be via a linker molecule. The invention also provides a conjugate obtained or obtainable by this process.
US08974793B2 Methods and systems for inducing immunologic tolerance to non-self antigens
Described herein are methods and systems that can be used to induce immunologic tolerance to non-self antigens. The methods and systems comprise introducing a tolerogen comprising at least one immunogenic non-self antigen coupled to a carrier, wherein the immunogenic antigen can be a foreign or endogenous antigen or fragments thereof. The non-self antigen can be selected from the group consisting of carbohydrate antigens, full-length antigenic proteins, and fragments and combinations thereof, while the carrier can be selected from nanoparticles and stents. Tolerogen compositions are also provided and can be used to induce immunologic tolerance to non-self antigens. These methods, systems and compositions are particularly advantageous since they can be used to allow for the extension of the window of safety for immunologically-incompatible transplantations to patients who are growing past the age of infancy.
US08974792B2 Internalizing erbB2 antibodies
This invention provides novel erbB2-binding internalizing antibodies. The antibodies, designated F5 and C1, specifically bind to c-erbB2 antigen and, upon binding, are readily internalized into the cell bearing the c-erbB2 marker. Chimeric molecules comprising the F5 and/or C1 antibodies attached to one or more effector molecules are also provided.
US08974789B2 Antagonists for the prevention or treatment of inflammatory bowel disease, and more particularly of Crohn's disease
An antagonist of the interaction between the Gp96 receptor and E. coli AIEC strains, for the prevention or treatment of inflammatory bowel disease. The antagonist is for specifically blocking or reducing the interaction between Gp96 receptor and the outer membrane vesicles (OMVs), typically the outer protein membrane OmpA of E. coli AIEC strains. The inventions provides for pharmaceutical compositions containing such an antagonist, which may be an antibody against gp96 or OmpA, or a gp96 or OmpA polypeptide. It may be combined to an antagonist of the interaction between the CEACAM6 receptor and E. coli AIEC strains, such as an anti-CEACAM6 antibody, a CEACAM6 polypeptide, or a mannoside or particle having a mannose unit. The invention also relates to a method for the diagnosis of inflammatory bowel disease, or of the determination of a predisposition of a person to develop inflammatory bowel disease.
US08974787B2 Antagonistic human light-specific human monoclonal antibodies
Provided herein are antibodies that immunospecifically bind to an hLIGHT polypeptide; isolated nucleic acids encoding the antibodies; vectors and host cells comprising nucleic acids encoding the antibodies; methods of making the antibodies; and a method of treating a hLIGHT-mediated disease in a subject comprising administering to the subject the antibodies. In preferred embodiments, the anti-hLIGHT antibodies provided herein will ameliorate, neutralize or otherwise inhibit hLIGHT biological activity in vivo (e.g., the hLIGHT-mediated production or secretion of CCL20, IL-8 or RANTES from a cell expressing a hLIGHT receptor). Also provided herein is a method for the detection of hLIGHT in a sample as well as a method for ameliorating, neutralizing or otherwise inhibiting hLIGHT activity, e.g., in a human subject suffering from a disorder in which hLIGHT activity is detrimental.
US08974786B2 Humanized antibodies to CA215
Provided herein are humanized forms of murine RP215 monoclonal antibodies and methods of using the same. These humanized RP215 monoclonal antibodies were characterized in terms of their respective affinity and specificity to the corresponding tumor-associated antigen, CA215, and shown to be comparable to those of murine RP215.
US08974784B2 Anti-pancreatic cancer antibodies
Described herein are compositions and methods of use of anti-pancreatic cancer antibodies or fragments thereof, such as murine, chimeric, humanized or human PAM4 antibodies. The subject antibodies show a number of novel and useful therapeutic characteristics, such as binding with high specificity to pancreatic and other cancers, but not to normal or benign pancreatic tissues and binding to a high percentage of early stage pancreatic cancers. In preferred embodiments, the antibodies bind to pancreatic cancer mucins. The antibodies and fragments are of use for the detection, diagnosis and/or treatment of cancer, such as pancreatic cancer. The antibodies, such as PAM4 antibodies, bind to a PAM4 antigen that shows unique cell and tissue distributions compared with other known antibodies such as CA19.9, DUPAN2, SPAN1, Nd2, B72.3, and Lea and Le(y) antibodies that bind to the Lewis antigens.
US08974780B2 Process for production and purification of recombinant lysosomal alpha-mannosidase
The present invention relates to a process for purification of recombinant alpha-mannosidase, a process for production of alpha-mannosidase, a composition comprising alpha-mannosidase, use of the composition as a medicament, use as a medicament for the treatment of alpha-mannosidosis and a method of treating alpha-mannosidosis and/or alleviating the symptoms of alpha-mannosidosis.
US08974779B2 Disease treatment via developing non-syngeneic graft transplantation
A method of providing a pancreatic, lymphoid/hematopietic or pulmonary organ and/or tissue function to a mammalian subject is provided. The method comprises transplanting into the subject a developing mammalian pancreatic, lymphoid/hematopietic or pulmonary organ/tissue graft, respectively, thereby generating a functional pancreatic, lymphoid/hematopietic or pulmonary organ and/or tissue, respectively, for providing the pancreatic, lymphoid/hematopietic or pulmonary organ and/or tissue function, respectively, to the subject.
US08974774B2 Compositions and methods for topical diagnostic and therapeutic transport
Compositions and methods are provided that are useful for the delivery, including transdermal delivery, of biologically active agents, such as non-protein non-nucleotide therapeutics and protein-based therapeutics excluding insulin, botulinum toxins, antibody fragments, and VEGF. The compositions and methods are particularly useful for topical delivery of antifungal agents and antigenic agents suitable for immunization. Alternately, the compositions can be prepared with components useful for targeting the delivery of the compositions as well as imaging components.
US08974773B2 Drying, anti-smear, and anti-odor agent for spray tanning
In some example embodiments, there is provided a method for sunless tanning. The method may include applying a sunless tanning solution to the skin and applying, during a drying stage of the sunless tanning solution, a powder to at least dry the tanning solution. Related compounds and methods may also be disclosed.
US08974770B2 Method for forming nano-bubble
The present invention discloses a method for forming a nano-bubble. The forming method is different from the oil-water emulsion reaction in the prior art. The method comprises: taking an inorganic particle as a nucleus and performing a polymer coating process to coat at least one first polymer on the surface of the nucleus to form an organic/inorganic composite particle; then removing the nucleus of the organic/inorganic composite particle by way of the dissolution of a first solvent to form an impregnated nano-particle; performing a freeze-drying process to remove the first solvent to have the impregnated nano-particle form a hollow nano-particle; and finally dissolving the hollow nano-particle in a second solvent to form the nano-bubble.
US08974768B2 Azo compounds reducing formation and toxicity of amyloid beta aggregation intermediates
The present invention relates to compounds suitable as modulators of protein misfolding and/or protein aggregation. The compounds are particularly suitable as inhibitors of amyloid aggregate formation and/or modulators of amyloid surface properties, and/or as activators of degradation or reduction of amyloid aggregates.
US08974767B2 Fluorescent nanoparticles
The use of fluorescent nanoparticles is disclosed which includes an inorganic core, a passivating layer and specific ligands having a hydrodynamic diameter of the inorganic core with the passivating layer of not more than 15 nm, preferably of not more than 10 nm, particularly preferably of not more than 5 nm, for preparing an in vivo diagnostic aid, the nanoparticles showing an emission of less than 700 nm.
US08974765B2 Methods and apparatus for controlled production of hydrogen using aluminum-based water-split reactions
A method and apparatus for producing hydrogen using an aluminum-based water-split reaction, in which water is reacted with metallic aluminum, at least one-soluble inorganic salt catalyst that causes progressive pitting of the metallic aluminum, and at least one metal oxide initiator that increases temperature upon exposure to water. The solid reactant materials are differentially distributed in a matrix relative to at least one inlet for introducing water to the matrix. The differential distribution affects at least one characteristic of the reaction, such as the rate, temperature, pressure and products of the reaction, the latter comprising one or more of hydrogen, heat and steam. The water-soluble inorganic salt catalyst may be sodium chloride, potassium chloride and combinations thereof, and the metal oxide initiator may be magnesium oxide, calcium oxide and combinations thereof. The solid reactant materials may be differentially distributed by concentrating at least one of the solid reactant materials in at least one area of the matrix relative to the inlet. One or more of the solid reactant materials may be concentrated proximate the inlet so as to achieve a rapid initial reaction upon introduction of water, or may be concentrated in defined packets at spaced apart locations within the matrix to achieve a more moderated action. The solid reactant materials may be positioned in layers arranged concentrically or spirally about the water inlet. The layers may be formed of a water permeable substrate, such as a fiber wool or mat material having the reactant materials deposited thereon. The substrate including the reactant materials may be stored in a disposable container, to which water is introduced via the inlet at the time of use.
US08974757B2 Methods and systems for synthesizing iron-based materials and sequestering carbon dioxide
Methods and systems for sequestering carbon dioxide and generating hydrogen are disclosed. In some embodiments, the methods include the following: dissolving an iron based material that includes a carbonate-forming element into a solution including the carbonate-forming element and iron; increasing a pH of the solution to cause precipitation of iron oxide from the solution thereby generating a first source of Fe2O3; reacting the carbonate-forming element in the solution with a first source of carbon dioxide to produce a carbonate thereby sequestering the carbon dioxide; oxidizing the first source of Fe2O3 with a carbonaceous fuel thereby generating a second source of carbon dioxide and iron; and oxidizing the iron with steam thereby generating hydrogen and an iron oxide. Some embodiments include producing iron-based catalysts.
US08974753B2 Precipitation of zinc from solution
A method of precipitating a zinc containing solid from an acidic solution containing dissolved zinc and magnesium comprising contacting the solution with a calcium containing neutralizing agent to raise the pH of the solution to 4.5 to 7.5 at a temperature of from 70 to 95° C. to thereby precipitate a solid zinc containing material and gypsum without causing substantial precipitation of magnesium, and separating the zinc containing material from the gypsum.
US08974752B2 Process for treating crusty SnO
Methods of treating of stannous oxide particles having at least a partial surface crust of stannic oxide by contacting the particles with a reducing agent for a period of time sufficient to produce stannous oxide are provided. The stannous oxide particles produced are readily soluble in organic sulfonic acids.
US08974751B2 Apparatus and method for separating components of a sample liquid
Sample liquid is collected in a chamber downstream of a separating device. Adjoining the chamber are a plurality of channels which guide the sample liquid to one or more investigating regions.
US08974748B2 Dual inlet microchannel device and method for using same
A dual inlet microchannel device and a method for using the device to perform a flow-through kinetic assay are described. A microplate having an array of the dual inlet microchannel devices and in particular their specially configured flow chambers is also described. Several embodiments of the dual inlet microchannel devices and specially configured flow chambers are also described.
US08974747B2 Bodily fluid analysis device
An apparatus comprising a substrate, the substrate having supported thereon: plural collectors each for collecting a bodily fluid from the surface of a body part placed adjacent thereto; an analyser for analysing each collected bodily fluid; and a display for displaying an indication of a result of each analysis.
US08974740B2 Exhaust treatment component mounting system
An exhaust treatment component mounting system including an exhaust treatment component canister that includes a cleat ring, and an exhaust treatment component housing including a radially outwardly extending flange. A torsion rod including a first end that mates with the flange of the housing, and a second end including a coupling that mates with the cleat ring, wherein during connection between the first end and the second end of the torsion rod, the canister is rigidly secured to the housing.
US08974731B2 Sample carrier and/or sample carrier processing apparatus
A sample processing apparatus includes a sample carrier receiving region configured to receive a sample carrier. The sample carrier includes at least one sample channel carrying at least one sample, at least one agent chamber carrying at least one agent to be moved to the at least one sample channel to facilitate processing of the at least one sample, and the at least one agent chamber includes at least one chamber cover covering at least one opening of the at least one agent chamber, inhibiting flow of the at least one agent from the at least one agent chamber to the at least one sample channel. The sample processing apparatus further includes a chamber opener configured to facilitate opening the at least one chamber cover. The sample processing apparatus further includes a fluid mover that moves the agent out of the at least one agent chamber after the at least one chamber cover is opened and into the at least one sample channel.
US08974723B2 Process for producing honeycomb structure
A process for producing a honeycomb structure includes: a mixing step where forming raw materials including a ceramic raw material are mixed to obtain a forming blended material, a kneading step where the forming blended material is kneaded to obtain kneaded clay, a forming step where the kneaded clay is formed into a honeycomb shape to obtain a honeycomb formed article, and a firing step where the honeycomb formed article is fired to obtain a honeycomb structure. The ceramic raw material is a cordierite forming raw material, and a magnetic powder contained in the kneaded clay is at a ratio of 400 ppm or less with respect to solid content conversion mass of the whole kneaded clay. There is provided a honeycomb structure capable of improving trapping efficiency, in particular, initial trapping efficiency by reducing the number of coarse pores in the partition walls.
US08974716B2 Injection molding machine having a tie bar engagement apparatus and method of operating same
An injection molding machine includes a base and an injection unit mounted to the base, and a first platen for holding a first mold section and a second platen for holding a second mold section. The first and second platens are supported by the base, and are movable along a machine axis between mold-open and mold-closed positions. At least a first tie bar engagement apparatus is associated with a first tie bar and includes a first bore in the first platen for receiving the respective tie bar therethrough at least when the platens are in the mold-closed position; and a first roller mounted to the first platen proximate the first bore. The first roller is rotatable about a first roller axis that is oriented horizontally and perpendicular to the machine axis.
US08974715B2 Seam concealment for three-dimensional models
A three-dimensional model built with an extrusion-based digital manufacturing system, and having a perimeter based on a contour tool path that defines an interior region of a layer of the three-dimensional model, where at least one of a start point and a stop point of the contour tool path is located within the interior region of the layer.
US08974713B2 Method and apparatus for producing plastic products with integrated reinforcing structure
The present invention relates to a method and to an apparatus for producing plastic products with an integrated reinforcing structure. To do so, a flexible fabric is first placed onto a surface of a cavity of a mold and is successively coated with plastic on the various sides.
US08974711B2 Method and apparatus for manufacturing waterproof footwear with attached compressible lining
A method and apparatus for making a lined waterproof footwear product, and footwear product formed therefrom, are provided. A last, having an exterior surface configured to correspond to the size and shape of the interior surface of the footwear product, is covered with a microcellular lining material. An injection mold comprises shells having a pre-determined configuration to mold an upper portion that attaches to the lining during the molding process. In the finished footwear product, the molded upper portion has a molded foot portion that extends around the wear's foot and an upwardly-extending molded portion that covers a part of the lining while leaving another part of the lining uncovered.
US08974706B2 Dielectric material with non-linear dielectric constant
Provided is a composition comprising a polymeric material, a filler material dispersed in the polymeric material, the filler material comprising inorganic particles and a discontinuous arrangement of conductive material wherein at least a portion of the conductive material is in durable electrical contact with the inorganic particles, and conductive material dispersed in the polymeric material.
US08974700B2 Method and system for producing synthesis gas
A method for producing synthesis gas, including: 1) pre-treating a biomass raw material; 2) carrying out low-temperature carbonization to obtain pyrolysis gas and charcoal, cooling the charcoal at an outlet of an carbonization furnace, and conveying the cooled charcoal to a charcoal storage bin; 3) separating the pyrolysis gas from charcoal powder; 4) delivering part of a separated pyrolysis gas to a combustion bed for combustion, heating the other part of the separated pyrolysis gas, and delivering a heated pyrolysis gas to the carbonization furnace; delivering a waste hot flue gas after heat exchange to a pretreatment part for the biomass raw material for drying; conveying the separated charcoal powder to the charcoal storage bin; 5) milling the charcoal powder to prepare a charcoal slurry; and 6) using high-pressure charcoal slurry pump, introducing the charcoal slurry to a gasification furnace for gasification.
US08974692B2 Chemical mechanical polishing slurry compositions and method using the same for copper and through-silicon via applications
Provided are novel chemical mechanical polishing (CMP) slurry compositions for polishing copper substrates and method of using the CMP compositions. The CMP slurry compositions deliver superior planarization with high and tunable removal rates and low defects when polishing bulk copper layers of the nanostructures of IC chips. The CMP slurry compositions also offer the high selectivity for polishing copper relative to the other materials (such as Ti, TiN, Ta, TaN, and Si), suitable for through-silicon via (TSV) CMP process which demands high copper film removal rates.
US08974690B2 Compositions containing chlorfluoroolefins or fluoroolefins
Compositions and methods based on the use of fluoroalkene containing from 3 to 4 carbon atoms and at least one carbon-carbon double bond, such as HFO-1214, HFO-HFO-1233, or HFO-1354, having properties highly beneficial in foaming and blowing agent applications, articles and methods.
US08974687B2 Piezoelectric ceramic and method of manufacturing the same
A piezoelectric ceramic is expressed by the composition formula 100[(Sr2−xCax)1+y/4Na1−yNb5−2/5zMnzO15]+αSiO2 (in the formula, 0≦x<0.3, 0.1
US08974685B2 Fine-processing agent and fine-processing method
Provided is a fine-processing agent which, when fine-processing a laminated film stacked at least with a silicon dioxide film and a silicon nitride film, can selectively fine-process the silicon dioxide film. Also provided is a fine-processing method utilizing the fine-processing agent. The fine-processing agent is characterized by including: (a) 0.01-15.0 weight % hydrogen fluoride and/or 0.1-40.0 weight % ammonium fluoride, (b) water, and (c) 0.001-10.00 weight % water-soluble polymer selected from among a group consisting of acrylic acid, ammonium acrylate, acrylic acid ester, acrylamide, styrenesulfonic acid, ammonium styrenesulfonate, and styrenesulfonic acid ester.
US08974682B2 Self-assembled pattern forming method
A self-assembled pattern forming method in an embodiment includes: forming a guide pattern on a substrate; forming a layer of a first polymer; filling a first block copolymer; and phase-separating the first block copolymer. The guide pattern includes a first recessed part having a depth T and a diameter D smaller than the depth T, and a second recessed part having a width larger than double of the diameter D. The first block copolymer has the first polymer and a second polymer which are substantially the same in volume fraction. By phase-separating the first block copolymer, a cylinder structure and a lamellar structure are obtained.
US08974681B2 Method for balancing a turbomachine rotor
A method for balancing a rotor, notably of a turbomachine, includes a step of determining an unbalancing mass, and a step of balancing by chemical machining of the rotor. The chemical machining includes arranging a bath containing a chemical machining agent so that the bath has a capacity of heterogeneous material removal as a function of the depth in the bath, an amount of material removal at a first depth in the bath is greater than an amount of material removal at a second depth in the bath; immersing the rotor in the bath; and orienting the rotor in the bath taking account of the capacity of heterogeneous material removal so that the quantity of material removed from the rotor in a zone of the unbalancing mass is sufficient to balance the rotor.
US08974677B2 Fluid processing
Fluid processing apparatuses and systems are disclosed. In some embodiments the fluid processing apparatuses include a movable enclosure, a plurality of filter housings disposed substantially within the movable enclosure, and a stand disposed within the enclosure. The filter housings are in fluid communication with one another. Each filter housing defines an elongate path and is configured to support a respective filter along the elongate flow path to filter a substantially continuous flow of fluid. The stand supports each filter housing such that the elongate flow path of each filter housing is substantially parallel to a vertical axis, wherein each filter housing is independently rotatable, relative to the stand.
US08974666B2 Preparative separation/purification system
A solution containing a target compound is passed through a trap column (14) to capture the target compound in the column (14). Thereafter, wash water is introduced in the trap column (14). Then, the setting of a six-port valve (7) is changed and an on/off valve (6) is opened to introduce nitrogen gas through a supply-side passage (8) in the trap column (14). In this stage, the nitrogen gas is warmed by means of a heat-exchange block (10), and the trap column (14) is warmed via a column rack (15). Any water remaining in the trap column (14) is initially thrust upwards by the nitrogen gas, to be extruded from an exit edge (14b) and discharged through a discharge-side passage (20). Furthermore, any water adhering to adsorbent or the inner wall surface of the trap column (14) is quickly vaporized and carried away by the nitrogen gas. In this manner, any water remaining in the trap column (14) can be rapidly removed, so that no water will be included in an eluate in the subsequent stage where a solvent with a strong elution power is introduced into the trap column (14) to collect the eluate. Thus, the eluate is rapidly vaporized and dried, so that the target compound in solid forms can be efficiently collected.
US08974661B2 Methods for separation of bitumen from oil sands
Methods of separating a viscous hydrocarbon from an ore are conducted at an oil extraction facility. The methods include transporting a slurry to a separation vessel. The transport may take place substantially without the use of an air compressor and without the injection of air into the slurry along a hydro-transport line. The methods also include mixing a plurality of beads into the slurry. The beads have a specific gravity that is less than about 0.95. The beads are used in lieu of air. The beads have an outer oleophilic surface for retaining oil, thereby aiding in the separation process. The beads are substantially coated with bitumen prior to introduction to the slurry. The method then includes separating the slurry into a first solution comprising primarily bitumen and the oleophilic beads, and a second solution comprising primarily water and sand.
US08974659B2 Aliphatic gasoline component and process to prepare said gasoline component
A process to prepare an aliphatic gasoline component comprising more than 90 wt % of trimethyl substituted compounds and monomethyl substituted compounds in a weight ratio of trimethyl to monomethyl compounds of at least 0.03 by (a) contacting a Fischer-Tropsch synthesis product with a catalyst comprising an acidic matrix and a large pore molecular sieve in a riser reactor at a temperature of between 450 and 650° C. at a contact time of between 1 and 10 seconds and at a catalyst to oil ratio of between 2 and 20 kg/kg; (b) isolating from the product of step (a) a gasoline fraction and a fraction comprising iso-butane and iso-butylene; (c) subjecting the iso-butane and the iso-butylene obtained in step (b) to an alkylation step to prepare a trimethyl substituted pentane; and (d) combining the gasoline fraction with the product rich in trimethyl substituted pentane.
US08974658B2 Electrochemical detection of magnetic particle mobility
An exemplary embodiment of the invention may include a method for electrochemically monitoring the mobility of particles in a fluid in response to an external field, the method may include monitoring an electrical characteristic of the fluid in an electrochemical cell, the fluid comprising particles that can be moved under the influence of an externally applied field; observing changes in the electrical characteristic caused by particle movement induced by the external field; and inferring a change in the physical state of the fluid from a change in the magnitude of the electrical characteristic observed.
US08974647B2 Gas generation device
The fluorine gas generation device includes an electrolyzer. An electrolytic bath is formed in the electrolyzer. A cathode is disposed in a cathode chamber, and an anode is disposed in an anode chamber. As a voltage is applied across the cathode and the anode, electrolysis of HF (hydrogen fluoride) takes place. In the electrolyzer, hydrogen gas is primarily generated from the cathode and fluorine gas is primarily generated from the anode. Two heating furnaces are provided for heating NaF pellets packed in HF adsorption columns. Each heating furnace has two HF adsorption columns disposed therein.
US08974640B2 Feed section of a separation column
The present invention relates to a feed distribution device in separation columns and a method of operation. In particular it relates to distillation columns in which the feed stream is substantially liquid phase, or a mixture of gas and liquid upstream of the column, but where the feed vaporizes or vaporizes more when it enters the column. More specifically, the feed distribution device contains a plurality of opening which allow the feed to vaporize inside the column and where the openings are maintained in critical condition during operation. Significant advantage is achieved through the implementation and use of the present feed distribution device.
US08974634B2 Cellulose nanofibers
The present invention provides a novel production method of a cellulose nanofiber and a novel cellulose nanofiber. The method for producing a cellulose nanofiber comprises defibrating pulp by a single- or multi-screw kneader in the presence of water, the single or multi-screw kneader having a screw circumferential speed of 45 m/min. Or more.
US08974630B2 Inductively coupled plasma processing apparatus having internal linear antenna for large area processing
An inductively coupled plasma processing apparatus for a large area processing includes a reaction chamber and a bending type antenna structure. The bending type antenna structure includes bending type linear antennas. Each of the bending type linear antennas has a first end, a second end and a bended portion. The bending type linear antennas are arranged horizontally in parallel with the substrate to pass through the reaction chamber inside the reaction chamber. The bending type linear antennas are spaced apart from each other. A bended portion of a bending type linear antenna is protruded out of the reaction chamber, a first end of each of the bending type linear antennas is protruded out of the reaction chamber and is coupled to an RF power, and a second end of each of the bending type linear antennas is protruded out of the reaction chamber and is coupled to a ground.
US08974627B2 Curable compositions containing silyl groups, and use thereof
This invention relates to curable compositions containing hydroxyl compounds that carry silyl groups as well as to the use of said compositions.
US08974626B2 Method of manufacturing micro structure, and substrate structure
A method of manufacturing a micro structure, includes the steps of: preparing separate first and second substrates, the first substrate having a first surface on which a first structural body having a first height and a second structural body having a second height greater than the first height of the first structural body are arranged, the second substrate having a second surface; then placing the first and second substrates to cause the first and second surfaces to face each other across the first and second structural bodies; and then bonding the first and second substrates to each other while compressing the second structural body in a height direction thereof between the first and second surfaces to cause the second structural body to have a height defined by the first structural body.
US08974616B2 Method for providing liquid-proof seams for corrugated elastic laminates
A liquid-proof seamed article including an elastic laminated panel and a corrugated elastic laminated panel joined at the sealing regions of the laminated panels is provided. In exemplary embodiments, both of the laminated panels are corrugated. The laminated panels each include a textile layer and a protective layer. At least one of the textile layer and protective layer is elastic. An adhesive pre-treatment may be applied to the elastic laminate panel and/or the corrugated laminate panel along respective sealing regions prior to forming a seam. Additionally, the laminate can be stretched to substantially flatten the corrugations prior to forming a seam. By substantially flattening the surface of the corrugated laminated panel(s), an adhesive may be applied such that there are no gaps in the adhesive. The corrugated laminates may be used as material for making garments. An apparatus and a method for making a liquid-proof seamed article are also provided.
US08974615B2 Label dispensing systems and methods
A label dispensing system includes a feed assembly, a separation assembly, an application assembly, and a control assembly. The feed assembly provides a label initially attached to a substrate. The separation assembly is located in a downstream location relative to the feed assembly, and includes an angled surface over which the substrate passes configured to at least partially separate the label from the substrate. The application assembly is articulable between a plurality of positions, including a first position at which the application assembly engages the label after the label is at least partially separated from the substrate and a second position at which the label is affixed to a target. The control assembly causes vibration of at least a portion of the application assembly proximate to the first position proximate to a time when the application assembly contacts the label.
US08974614B2 Powder metallurgical article and process
A powder metallurgical article and process are disclosed. The article is a repaired or enlarged powder metallurgical article. The repaired or enlarged powder metallurgical article includes a formed article including a first alloy and a material including a second alloy. The material is welded to the formed article to form the repaired or enlarged powder metallurgical article. The repaired or enlarged powder metallurgical article includes a substantially uniform grain structure.
US08974611B2 Methods of producing deformed metal articles
A method of making metal articles as well as sputtering targets is described, which involves deforming an ingot to preferred dimensions. In addition, products made by the process of the present invention are further described.
US08974606B2 Ex-situ cleaning assembly
A cleaning assembly is provided. The cleaning assembly includes a plate having a front surface and a back surface and a manifold affixed to an edge of the plate. The manifold has a plurality of outlets extending therefrom. The plate further includes a plurality of cups extending through the plate. The plurality of cups have an upper body with an outlet extending from the back surface and the plurality of cups have a sealing portion coupled to the upper body and extending from the front surface of the plate. Each outlet of the upper body is coupled to one of the corresponding plurality of outlets of the manifold. The plate also includes a plurality of alignment pins extending from the front surface of the plate. The plurality of alignment pins are configured to support an edge of a substrate, wherein one of the plurality of alignment pins is slidably mounted to the plate. A plurality of guide pins extends the same distance from the back surface.
US08974604B2 Sewer cleaning method
A sewer pipe is cleaned of collected solids by providing a water supply hose at a first location on the pipe and by driving a jet nozzle head to a second location along the pipe using jets directed along the pipe. At the second location the head is changed for a second head attached to a cable and is pulled back to the first location by the hose. The nozzle is then pulled back to the second location by pulling the cable while nozzles directed along the pipe toward the second location drive the solids forwardly to the second location for extraction.
US08974601B2 Apparatuses, systems and methods for treating substrate
Provided is an apparatus, system and method for treating a substrate, and more particularly, a substrate treating apparatus having a cluster structure, a substrate treating system, and a substrate treating method using the substrate treating system. The substrate treating apparatus includes a load port on which a container containing a substrate is installed, a plurality of process modules treating the substrate, a transfer module disposed between the load port and the process modules, and transferring the substrate between the container and the process modules, and a buffer chamber disposed between neighboring ones of the process modules, and providing a space for carrying the substrate between the neighboring process modules.
US08974599B2 Boron doped single crystal diamond electrochemical synthesis electrode
Synthetic monocrystalline diamond compositions having one or more monocrystalline diamond layers formed by chemical vapor deposition, the layers including one or more layers having an increased concentration of one or more impurities (such as boron and/or isotopes of carbon), as compared to other layers or comparable layers without such impurities. Such compositions provide an improved combination of properties, including color, strength, velocity of sound, electrical conductivity, and control of defects. A related method for preparing such a composition is also described., as well as a system for use in performing such a method, and articles incorporating such a composition.
US08974597B2 Gypsum-containing product
The invention provides a set gypsum-containing product having increased resistance to permanent deformation and a method for preparing it comprising forming a mixture of a calcium sulfate material, water, and an appropriate amount of one or more enhancing materials chosen from condensed phosphoric acids, each of which comprises 2 or more phosphoric acid units; and salts or ions of condensed phosphates, each of which comprises 2 or more phosphate units. The mixture is then maintained under conditions sufficient for the calcium sulfate material to form a set gypsum material.
US08974596B2 Method for producing cement with separation of CO2
A method of producing cement clinker including the steps of preheating raw meal comprising calcium carbonate in a preheating stage that is preheated by the exhaust gases of a sintering stage connected downstream in the direction of the gas flow, neutralizing the preheated raw meal, sintering the raw meal into cement clinker in a sintering stage, and cooling the cement clinker from the sintering stage in a cooling stage that cools the cement clinker with a gas. The exhaust gases of the sintering stage are combined with the exhaust gases of the neutralization, and the combined exhaust gases are conducted in an open gas circuit. The CO2 emissions are substantially reduced over known systems with CO separation, and the formation of nitrogen oxides by the combustion of atmospheric nitrogen in the oxidative environment of the sintering stage burner is almost completely prevented.
US08974589B2 Silicone protectant compositions
The present invention relates generally to compositions and methods of use for an automotive protectant composition and/or automotive cleaning composition. The protectant composition and/or cleaning composition includes silicone, organic solvent, rheology modifier and water. The composition also optionally includes other components. The weight ratio of the silicon to the organic solvent is at least 0.5:1 and generally no more than 3:1. The organic solvent generally is or includes mineral oil.
US08974587B2 Casting sand core composition
A casting process sand core composition including sand particles (grains) and a binder material. Both substantially spherical sand grains and substantially non-spherical grains may be present. The size of the sand grains is preferably held within a preselected and controlled range, and the size distribution by weight percentage of the sand grains within the grain size range is also controlled. The present invention also contemplates methods of making a sand core from such a composition, and methods of making a casting with a die that uses a sand core made from such a composition.
US08974585B2 Fan-and-filter unit
The invention relates to a fan-and-filter unit to be mounted in the wall of a switch cabinet or housing, and includes a fan unit inserted in a fan housing, a filter mat arrangement mounted upstream of the fan unit and a fan cover immobilizing the filter mat. An embodiment advantageous for operation of the fan-and-filter unit may be provided where the fan-and-filter unit has a filter mat monitoring unit which is designed to detect the service life and/or a degree of soiling of the filter mat arrangement and which includes an insert integrated into the fan housing or the fan cover and having an illuminated display visible from the exterior of the fan cover facing away from the fan unit and being designed to display at least exceeding of a predetermined or predeterminable service life and/or a predetermined or predeterminable degree of soiling.
US08974581B2 Mercury capture for packaged fluorescent lamps
Disclosed is an Hg capture system adapted for advantageous placement within a container housing a fluorescent lamp. Such Hg capture system includes a substrate impregnated with between about 0.08 and 0.23 g/cm2 carbon carrying between about 5% and 15% sulfur, basis carbon weight, reacted with between about 0.02 to about 1% by weight iodine, basis sulfur weight. The corresponding method for scouring released vaporous Hg housed within a container includes providing a source of carbon carrying between about 5% and 15% sulfur, basis carbon weight, reacted with between about 0.02 to about 1% by weight iodine, basis sulfur weight; and placing within the container a substrate bearing an effective amount of the iodine reacted sulfur for scouring Hg released within the container.
US08974579B2 Device for separating paint overspray
A device for separating paint overspray from the cabin exhaust air of painting systems which is laden with overspray having at least one separating surface, on which the cabin exhaust air can be guided along and which is electrically conducting and connected to a pole of a high voltage source. An electrode device arranged in the air stream is associated with the separating surface and connected to the other pole of the high voltage source. Paint overspray is transported away from the separating surface by an electrically conducting separating fluid, which can be fed to the separating surface and flows over the separating surface so that a large part at least of the solids pass from the cabin exhaust air flowing past into the separating fluid.
US08974575B2 Method of enriching combustible gas
Disclosed is a method for enriching combustible gas, which suppresses the deterioration and pulverization of an adsorbent without extending a period for pressure equalization. The pressure equalization is effected by opening a pressure equalization passage opening/closing valve incorporated in a pressure equalization passage, after completion of adsorption in a first adsorption tower and after completion of desorption in a second adsorption tower connected to the first adsorption tower via the pressure equalization passage.
US08974572B2 Method and apparatus for recovering rare metal
Disclosed is a method and apparatus for recovering rare metal, which separates and collects rare metals by making use of chemical actions in an efficient combination of adsorption and separation, thereby reducing work load and improving work safety. The method for recycling rare metals includes a leaching step in which a rare metal of palladium, platinum, and rhodium is mixed with hydrochloric acid into a hydrochloric acid mixture, which is then stirred at one atmospheric pressure or lower at a temperature from 50 to 90 degrees Centigrade. The vapor resulting from the stirring is condensed, and the hydrochloric acid resulting from the condensing is fed back to the original hydrochloric acid mixture to produce a hydrochloric acid leaching solution. The hydrochloric acid leaching solution produced in the leaching step is used to collect the rare metals.
US08974571B2 Partially-reduced iron producing apparatus and partially-reduced iron producing method
A partially-reduced iron producing apparatus includes: a supplying device laying ignition raw-material pellets on an endless-grate; a heating furnace heating the ignition raw-material pellets; another supplying device laying the raw material pellets on the ignition raw-material pellets; and an exhaust gas circulation device supplying an oxygen-containing gas to the raw-material pellets. The oxygen containing gas is made by circulating part of an exhaust gas discharged from the raw-material pellets and mixing it with air. A partially-reduced iron is produced by thermally reducing the raw-material pellets in a bed height direction thereof through separate combustion and heating regions. The combustion region formed on an upstream side in a travelling direction of the endless grate by supplying the oxygen-containing gas having a high oxygen concentration. The heating region formed downstream of the combustion region in the travelling direction of the endless grate by supplying the oxygen-containing gas having a low oxygen concentration.
US08974551B1 Fuel additive for improved performance in fuel injected engines
The disclosure provides a fuel additive concentrate, a method for cleaning fuel injectors, a method for restoring power to a diesel fuel injected engine, a fuel composition, and a method of operating a fuel injected diesel engine. The additive concentrate includes (a) a hydrocarbyl substituted quaternary ammonium internal salt and (b) a hydrocarbyl substituted dicarboxylic anhydride derivative, wherein the hydrocarbyl substituent has a number average molecular weight ranging from about 450 to about 1500. A weight ratio of (a) to (b) in the additive concentrate ranges from about 1:20 to about 2:1, and the additive concentrate is devoid of a reaction product of a hydrocarbyl substituted dicarboxylic acid, anhydride or ester and an amine compound of the formula wherein R2 is hydrogen or a hydrocarbyl group containing from 1 to 15 carbon atoms, and R3 is hydrogen or a hydrocarbyl group containing from 1 to 20 carbon atoms.
US08974548B2 Hair composition
A hair coloring composition comprising: a) dihydroxyacetone or a derivative thereof; b) from 0.2 to 10 wt % of the total composition of a cationic conditioning compound c) a sulphonic compound of formula: H2N—(CHR1}pS(—X)q—Y in which where p is an integer from 1 to 5, R1 is H or an alkyl group, X is O or S q is an integer from 0 or 1. Y is an alkyl group or hydroxyl group.
US08974545B2 Cleaning method
The invention provides a method and formulation for cleaning a soiled substrate, the method comprising the treatment of the moistened substrate with a formulation comprising a multiplicity of polymeric particles, wherein the formulation is free of organic solvents. Preferably, the substrate is wetted so as to achieve a substrate to water ratio of between 1:0.1 to 1:5 w/w. Optionally, the formulation additionally comprises at least one cleaning material and, in this embodiment, it is preferred that the polymeric particles are coated with the at least one cleaning material. Preferably, the cleaning material comprises a surfactant, which most preferably has detergent properties. Most preferably, the substrate comprises a textile fiber. Typically, the polymeric particles comprise particles of nylon, most preferably in the form of nylon chips. The results obtained are very much in line with those observed when carrying out conventional dry cleaning processes and the method provides the significant advantage that the use of solvents, with all the attendant drawbacks in terms of cost and environmental considerations, can be avoided.
US08974541B2 Bone implant comprising a magnesium-containing metallic material with reduced corrosion rate, and methods and kit for producing the bone implant
The invention relates to a bone implant which comprises a magnesium-containing metallic material having a reduced corrosion rate and inorganic bone cement, and to methods and a kit for producing the bone implant. With a method according to the invention, it is possible to obtain a bone implant which comprises inorganic bone cement and a magnesium-containing metallic material with a corrosion-inhibiting coating which contains magnesium-ammonium phosphates. In the method according to the invention, a magnesium-containing metallic material, of which the surface has a magnesium oxide layer and/or a magnesium salt layer, is combined with inorganic bone cement in order to generate a solid composite material that comprises the inorganic bone cement and the magnesium-containing metallic material. The inorganic bone cement contains inorganic powder constituents, which set in the presence of water to form a solid, and water-soluble phosphate-ion-containing salts, preferably water-soluble phosphate-ion-containing and ammonium-ion-containing salts. According to the invention, the magnesium-containing metallic material is brought into contact with water before and/or during the combination with the inorganic bone cement in the presence of water-soluble ammonium-ion-containing and phosphate-ion-containing salts. Moreover, the inorganic bone cement is set by being brought into contact with water.
US08974538B2 Orthopedic spacer
A temporary knee replacement assembly and kit includes a tibial plate that attaches to the tibia, a tibial rod that extends through the plate into the medullary cavity and abuts the plate. A femoral plate attaches to the femur, and a femoral rod extends through the second plate into the femur medullary cavity and abuts the plate. A locking spacer connects the two rods. The spacer may be length adjustable or may be provided in multiple sizes for length selection. One or both of the rods may include a bone cement/antibiotic coating to provide antibiotic treatment to the tissue. The kit may include multiple tibial and femoral rods, multiple tibial and femoral plates, and multiple locking spacers, to accommodate different applications.
US08974537B2 Method for an articulating humeral head prosthesis
A humeral prosthesis includes a stem component and a humeral head component. The humeral head component has a configuration that is similar to the curvature of the humeral head to allow the head to reconstruct the anatomy of the damaged humerus. The stem component is threaded and cannulated and engages the humeral head component. The stem component is configured to be inserted within the humeral diaphyseal channel. When engaged the humeral head component and the stem component form an articulated joint allowing the humeral head component to articulate with respect to the stem component.
US08974536B2 Intra-articular joint replacement
A method of forming a shoulder prosthesis includes forming a concave articular surface into an end portion of a humerus, including compacting bone of the end portion to define the concave articular surface. An implant having a convex articular surface is secured to a glenoid. The concave articular surface of the humerus is articulated with the convex articular surface of the implant.
US08974531B2 Methods and apparatus for intervertebral disc prosthesis insertion
A method for inserting an intervertebral disc prosthesis into a space between two vertebrae involves inserting the prosthesis partway into the space under constraint to prevent endplates of the prosthesis from articulating, releasing the prosthesis from constraint, and inserting the unconstrained prosthesis farther into the space. In some embodiments, the method involves grasping the prosthesis with a grasping device to insert the prosthesis partway under constraint, loosing the grasping device to release the prosthesis from constraint, and pushing the prosthesis farther into the disc space using the grasping device and/or one or more separate pusher devices. A system includes a grasping device, at least one separate pushing device, and optionally a vertebral spreading device and/or a vertebral midline indicator device.
US08974525B2 Tissue shaping device
In one embodiment, the present invention relates to a tissue shaping device adapted to be disposed in a vessel near a patient's heart to reshape the patient's heart. Such tissue shaping device can include an expandable proximal anchor; a proximal anchor lock adapted to lock the proximal anchor in an expanded configuration; an expandable distal anchor; a distal anchor lock adapted to lock the distal anchor in an expanded configuration; and a connector disposed between the proximal anchor and the distal anchor, the connector having a substantially non-circular cross-section.
US08974522B2 Coated medical device
A coated medical device (10) including a structure (12) adapted for introduction into a passage or vessel of a patient. The structure is formed of preferably a non-porous base material (14) having a bioactive material layer (18) disposed thereon. The medical device is preferably an implantable stent or balloon (26) of which the bioactive material layer is deposited thereon. The stent can be positioned around the balloon and another layer of the bioactive material posited over the entire structure and extending beyond the ends of the positioned stent. The ends of the balloon extend beyond the ends of the stent and include the bioactive material thereon for delivering the bioactive material to the cells of a vessel wall coming in contact therewith. The balloon further includes a layer of hydrophilic material (58) positioned between the base and bioactive material layers of the balloon.
US08974521B2 Implant and method for manufacturing same
An implant having a preferably hollow cylindrical main structure comprising a large number of continuous openings and a coating which releases at least one pharmaceutically active substance. To attain a better distribution of the pharmaceutically active substance, at least 20% of the cross-sectional area, preferably at least 50% of the cross-sectional area, of at least a portion of the openings in a predetermined section of the main structure is covered with the coating which releases at least one pharmaceutically active substance. Furthermore, a system composed of a catheter and such an implant, a simple method for manufacturing such an implant or such a system is provided.
US08974518B2 Eversible branch stent-graft and deployment method
A method of deploying an eversible branch stent-graft includes deploying the eversible branch stent-graft into a main vessel such that a collateral opening in a main stent-graft of the eversible branch stent-graft is aligned with an ostium of a branch vessel emanating from the main vessel. A branch stent ring suture threaded though outer exposed crowns of an outer stent ring of the branch stent-graft is grasped and pulled through the collateral opening to evert the branch stent-graft into the branch vessel as a branch anchor suture is removed to release a protruding end of a branch stent-graft from a proximal end of the main stent-graft.
US08974516B2 Plain woven stents
Self-expandable, woven intravascular devices for use as stents (both straight and tapered), filters (both temporary and permanent) and occluders for insertion and implantation into a variety of anatomical structures. The devices may be formed from shape memory metals such as nitinol. The devices may also be formed from biodegradable materials. Delivery systems for the devices include two hollow tubes that operate coaxially. A device is secured to the tubes prior to the implantation and delivery of the device by securing one end of the device to the outside of the inner tube and by securing the other end of the device to the outside of the outer tube. The stents may be partially or completely covered by graft materials, but may also be bare. The devices may be formed from a single wire. The devices may be formed by either hand or machine weaving. The devices may be created by bending shape memory wires around tabs projecting from a template, and weaving the ends of the wires to create the body of the device such that the wires cross each other to form a plurality of angles, at least one of the angles being obtuse. The value of the obtuse angle may be increased by axially compressing the body.
US08974514B2 Intravascular stent with integrated link and ring strut
An expandable stent is implanted in a body lumen, such as a coronary artery, peripheral artery, or other body lumen. The stent includes a plurality of rings connected by links. The stent has a high degree of flexibility in the longitudinal direction, yet has adequate vessel wall coverage and radial strength sufficient to hold open an artery or other body lumen. The stent can be compressed or crimped onto a catheter to a very low profile since links are integrally formed from a portion of the struts forming the rings. The stent is constructed so that the cylindrical rings are very close together in order to provide maximum scaffolding, and if the stent has a drug coating, to provide a uniform drug delivery over the length of the stent. The connecting links are integrally formed from a portion of the struts forming the rings so that the links can have a maximum length thereby providing increased longitudinal flexibility of the stent.
US08974511B2 Methods for treating closed angle glaucoma
The present invention generally relates to methods for treating closed angle glaucoma. In certain embodiments, methods of the invention involve inserting into an eye a deployment device configured to hold an intraocular shunt, using the device to re-open an at least partially closed anterior chamber angle of an eye, and deploying the shunt from the device.
US08974505B2 Venting/pressure adjustment to aid in delivery of material into an anatomic region via a cannula
A cannulated and possibly fenestrated device for injection of material into bone can be dangerous because large, uncontrolled pressures are introduced during injection into a somewhat closed system, and material may extrude undesirably or emboli may be introduced. Methods and devices are described for providing venting of pressure upon injection of material through cannulated and possibly fenestrated screws. The first method involves a bone screw and/or anchor device that includes multiple channels to allow material to flow in through one channel and out through another channel. The second method involves a plunger that can force material into bone if advanced or lessen pressure if withdrawn. The third method involves usage of two separate screws. Material is alternately injected or withdrawn from each screw to cause material to flow from one screw to the other in a controlled way that creates a uniform or asymmetrical distribution of material as desired.
US08974502B2 Methods, systems, and devices for treating intervertebral discs including intradiscal fluid evacuation
Methods, systems, and devices for of treating intervertebral discs are disclosed. In one embodiment, a minimally invasive method of treating an intervertebral disc is provided. A contrast or imaging media is introduced into a nucleus of the intervertebral disc without removing any of the nucleus. The intervertebral disc is imaged with the contrast media within the nucleus. Then the contrast media is evacuated from the nucleus to reduce intradiscal pressure. Finally, a disc augmentation biomaterial is introduced into the nucleus. The disc augmentation biomaterial is introduced in such a manner that the disc augmentation biomaterial is maintained within the nucleus without having to repair an opening in the annulus surrounding the nucleus.
US08974499B2 Apparatus and method for dynamic vertebral stabilization
A posterior vertebral stabilizer has a resilient member such as a linear spring, which operates in tension and compression. The resilient member may be kept straight by a stabilization rod extending through the spring, or by a telescoping assembly that encases the resilient member. The ends of the stabilizer are attachable to pedicles of adjacent vertebrae so that the stabilizer adds stiffness to control flexion and extension of the vertebrae. Two such stabilizers may be used, and may be connected together by a crosslink designed to limit relative rotation of the stabilizers. Thus, the stabilizers may restrict axial rotation and lateral bending between the vertebrae, while permitting stiffened flexion and extension. Such stabilizers help provide the stiffness of a healthy intervertebral disc. In the event that fusion of the joint becomes necessary, a set screw or other component may be used to further restrict flexion and extension.
US08974497B2 Vertebral support device
A vertebral support device (1) is disclosed, which in various embodiments comprises at least two osseous anchoring implants (2), each designed to be anchored to a vertebra, and at least one linking element (3) fixed to the osseous anchoring implants (2) by fasteners (20) that maintain a fixed angle between the longitudinal axis (L) of the linking element (3) passing through rigid elements (34) of the linking element (3) and the insertion axis (DV) of the implants (2). The linking element (3) includes at least one elastic dampening element (31) that that allows the implant-bearing vertebrae some freedom of movement. The dampening element (31) accommodates the stresses imposed on the linking element (3) during movement of the vertebrae and tends to return the support device (1) to its normal configuration.
US08974495B2 Adjustable anchor systems and methods
An adjustable anchor system for securing tissue to bone, including an anchor having at least one passage extending from a proximal end toward a distal end. The passage defines a restriction such as a restricted opening. The anchor has at least one bone-engaging feature disposed between the proximal and distal ends. The system further includes a first material formed as a closed loop and capable of being placed through a portion of the tissue, and a second filament having a terminal end, a post limb and a sliding knot tied between the terminal end and the post limb to establish an elongated, adjustable-length loop which extends beyond the proximal end of the anchor and captures the closed loop of the first material. The knot of the second filament is restrained by the restricted opening when tension is applied as desired to the post limb to shorten the elongated loop to draw the tissue toward the anchor.
US08974493B2 Method and apparatus for sealing access
An apparatus and a method for sealing a puncture in a tubular tissue structure or the wall of a body cavity are provided. The apparatus and method include a bioabsorbable member that is partially external to and partially internal to an introducer sheath before and during placement thereof.
US08974492B2 Endoscopic treatment tool
An endoscopic treatment tool includes: a treatment part which is adapted to conduct treatment of tissue within a body cavity; an operation part which is adapted to operate the treatment part; an operation shaft member which connects the treatment part and the operation part; and a coil sheath part through which the operation shaft member passes so that the operation shaft member is capable of forward or backward movement, in which: the coil sheath part comprises: a first coil sheath around which wire is helically wound; and a second coil sheath that has a lower compressive resistance than the first coil sheath, and that has a higher rotation follow-up capability than the first coil sheath; the first coil sheath and the second coil sheath are disposed so as to coaxially and radially overlap; a first end part and a second end part of the second coil sheath are respectively connected to the treatment part and the operation part so as to be incapable of relative rotation around an axis of the second coil sheath; and at least one of the first end part and the second end part is capable of relative movement in an axial direction with respect to the first coil sheath.
US08974491B2 Methods for adaptive limb occlusion
Methods for adaptive cuff inflation for the purposes of occluding a limb of a subject include inflating a cuff to a pressure at or above limb occlusion pressure and periodically deflating the cuff to detect amplitude of oscillometric oscillations reaching or exceeding a predetermined threshold, whereby indicating that the cuff pressure has reached an updated systolic blood pressure. Selecting the cuff to be wide enough to define limb occlusion pressure at or below the systolic blood pressure assures that this maneuver does not compromise cessation of blood flow to the limb. Devices are disclosed configured to operate in at least two of the following three operating modes: a tourniquet mode, a remote conditioning mode and a blood pressure monitoring mode.
US08974490B2 Temporary embolic protection device and medical procedure for delivery thereof
An embolic protection device and medical procedure for positioning the device in the aortic arch is disclosed. The device and method effectively prevent material from entering with blood flow into side branch vessels of the aortic arch. The device is a collapsible embolic protection device devised for temporary transvascular delivery to an aortic arch of a patient, wherein the device has a protection unit that comprises a selectively permeable unit adapted to prevent embolic material from passage with a blood flow into a plurality of aortic side branch vessels at the aortic arch. The protection unit is permanently attached to a transvascular delivery unit at a connection point provided at the selectively permeable unit, and a first support member for the protection unit that is at least partly arranged at a periphery of the selectively permeable unit. In an expanded state of the device, the connection point is enclosed by the first support member or arranged at said support member.
US08974489B2 Dual endovascular filter and methods of use
Blood filter devices and methods of use.
US08974476B2 Vascular closure device with compaction tube suture cutting port and methods
A tissue puncture closure device includes an anchor, a sealing plug, a compaction member, a suture, and a suture cutting member. The compaction member is configured to compress the sealing plug toward the anchor. The suture is coupled to the sealing plug and anchor, and a portion of the suture extends through at least a portion of the compaction member. The suture cutting member extends through an aperture in a sidewall of the compaction member and is operable to cut the suture at a location within the compaction member.
US08974473B2 Methods and apparatus for transpericardial left atrial appendage closure
Methods and apparatus for closing a left atrial appendage are described. The methods rely on introducing a closure tool from a location beneath the rib cage, over an epicardial surface, and to the exterior of the left atrial appendage. The closure device may then be used to close the left atrial appendage, preferably at its base, by any one of a variety of techniques. A specific technique using graspers and a closing loop is illustrated.
US08974471B2 Circumcision device and method for mass circumcision
System (100, 150, 200) for effecting ischemic necrosis in a foreskin of a penis, including a rigid ring (104, 158, 204), at least one elastic ring (106, 158, 206, 282, 284) and at least one circumferential groove (108), the rigid ring including an inner surface, the inner surface including an inner diameter, and an outer surface, the outer surface including an outer diameter, the elastic ring being configured to substantially fit around a surface of the rigid ring, the circumferential groove being located on a surface of at least one of the rigid ring and the elastic ring, wherein the inner diameter of the rigid ring is at least slightly larger than a diameter of a shaft of the penis, wherein a diameter of the elastic ring in a relaxed state is at least substantially equal to the diameter of the shaft of the penis, wherein the rigid ring is placed around a first surface of the foreskin, wherein the elastic ring is placed around a second surface of the foreskin, the foreskin being placed within the circumferential groove, the rigid ring and the elastic ring thereby compressing the foreskin in the circumferential groove with a compression force, and wherein the compression force is sufficient to effect ischemic necrosis in the foreskin.
US08974469B2 Snare
A snare for snaring an article in a vessel of a vascular system or other body vessel. The snare includes a core cable having a proximal end portion and a distal end portion. The snare also includes first, second and third loops each having a proximal end portion and a distal end portion, and a mid-portion therebetween formed by spaced apart first and second sides connected together at the distal end portion of the loop. The mid-portions of each of the loops cross over mid portions of one of the other two loops, and the loops are only connected together at their proximal end portions, where they are gathered together and attached to the distal end portion of the core cable. The loops are movable between an open position and a closed position.
US08974467B2 Surgical orientation system and method
A system and method for detecting and measuring changes in angular position with respect to a reference plane is useful in surgical procedures for orienting various instruments, prosthesis, and implants with respect to anatomical landmarks. One embodiment of the device uses dual orientation devices of a type capable of measuring angular position changes from a reference position. One such device provides information as to changes in position of an anatomical landmark relative to a reference position. The second device provides information as to changes in position of a surgical instrument and/or prosthesis relative to the reference position.
US08974466B2 Snap-lock for drill sleeve
A device for drilling a hole in bone and for inserting bone screws into the drilled hole is provided. The device comprises a trocar, drill sleeve and protection sleeve in a telescopically nested configuration. The drill sleeve and protection sleeve may have an axial locking feature that allows the two pieces to be handled together as a unit by preventing inadvertent separation. The axial locking feature may comprise an integral annular ridge provided on one sleeve that cooperates with an annular groove provided on the other sleeve. One sleeve may also have at least one slot allowing the locking feature to be disengaged prior to separation of the sleeves. The sleeves may be easily separated with one hand by the user by the application of an axial separation force between a pair of flanges provided with the sleeves, and by a radial compression force applied to at least a portion of the drill sleeve.
US08974465B2 Device and method for mixing and dispensing a bone cement mixture
In at least one embodiment of the present invention, a device for mixing and dispensing a bone cement mixture is provided. The device comprises a first chamber and a second chamber. The first chamber is for containing a first bone cement component. The second chamber is for containing a second bone cement component. A valve is in fluid communication with the first and second chambers. A first and a second plunger are respectively within the first and second chambers and are configured to actuate within their respective chambers. When the valve is in a first position actuating the first plunger advances the first bone cement component into the second chamber to form the bone cement mixture.
US08974462B2 Devices and methods for minimally invasive access into a joint
Devices and methods are disclosed for providing access to a central compartment of a hip joint. The devices can access the central compartment by distracting all or a portion of the labrum. The labrum can be distracted by advancing a device underneath the bottom edge of the labrum, and using the device to further distract the labrum. Some devices can move underneath the labrum to provide a gap for other devices to access the central compartment.
US08974457B2 Systems and methods for sternum repair
The invention provides systems and methods for sternum repair. A sternum repair device may include a central body, which may include a plurality of bands and buckles, such that a band extends from the central body and is received by a buckle component. The band may wrap around the sternum and the device may be tightened to keep the separate sternum pieces together.
US08974455B2 Medical coagulation instrument
A medical coagulation instrument having a shaft as well as at least one electrode tip that extends beyond the distal end of the shaft. To create a coagulation instrument whose electrodes are of simple structure and ensure an atraumatic and safe handling, at least one electrode tip should be widened or be configured as widening in the distal direction.
US08974450B2 System and method for ablation procedure monitoring using electrodes
A microwave ablation system includes an antenna assembly configured to deliver microwave energy from a power source to tissue. One or more electrodes are disposed on the antenna assembly and are configured to be positioned relative to tissue upon insertion of the antenna assembly into tissue. The one or more electrodes are configured to generate a feedback signal in response to an electrical signal supplied thereto from the power source. The feedback signal corresponds to the proximity of tissue relative to the at least one electrode and is configured to be compared to a predetermined parameter to determine a depth of the insertion of the antenna assembly into tissue. The power source is configured to control the delivery of microwave energy to the antenna assembly based on the comparison.
US08974447B2 Energy-based scissors device
An energy-based surgical instrument is configured to permit selective cutting, coagulation, and fine dissection required in fine and delicate surgical procedures. The scissors grip instrument provides for tube-in-tube construction so the device is useful for both open and minimally invasive procedures. The assembly includes a clamping mechanism, including a clamp arm and/or housing which are specifically configured to create a desired level of tissue clamping forces.
US08974446B2 Ultrasound ablation apparatus with discrete staggered ablation zones
An ablation apparatus comprises an ultrasonic transducer which includes a piezoelectric element having a cylindrical shape; a plurality of external electrodes disposed on the outer surface of the piezoelectric element; and at least one internal electrode disposed on the inner surface of the piezoelectric element. The at least one internal electrode provides corresponding internal electrode portions that are disposed opposite the external electrodes with respect to the piezoelectric element, the external electrodes and the at least one internal electrode to be energized to apply an electric field across the piezoelectric element. The ultrasonic ablation zones of the external electrodes are distributed in a staggered configuration so as to span one or more open arc segments around the longitudinal axis, and the ultrasound ablation zones of all external electrodes projected longitudinally onto any lateral plane which is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis span a substantially closed loop around the longitudinal axis.
US08974445B2 Methods and apparatus for treatment of cardiac valve insufficiency
Mitral valve insufficiency is treated by introducing an expansible device such as a balloon bearing an ultrasonic transducer into the heart so that the transducer is positioned adjacent the mitral annulus but spaced from the mitral annulus, and actuating the transducer to heat the mitral annulus, denature collagen in the annulus and thereby shrink the annulus.
US08974444B2 Method for picosecond and femtosecond laser tissue welding
A method for welding tissue wounds in an animal. The method comprises joining edges of a tissue wound and irradiating the tissue wound and tissue surrounding the tissue wound with a pulsed laser. The pulsed laser has a laser wavelength in a range of an absorption band of water, elastin and/or collagen in the tissue wound and tissue surrounding the tissue wound. The pulsed laser has a pulse width of not more than picoseconds in order of magnitude to heat tissue surrounding the tissue wound and facilitate bonding of native tissue protein present in the tissue surrounding the tissue wound to achieve tissue repair. The laser wavelength is in a range of between about 800 nm to about 2,700 nm.
US08974440B2 Modular and cooperative medical devices and related systems and methods
The various embodiments disclosed herein relate to modular medical devices, including various devices with detachable modular components and various devices with pivotally attached modular components. Additional embodiments relate to procedures in which various of the devices are used cooperatively. Certain embodiments of the medical devices are robotic in vivo devices.
US08974434B2 System for anchoring medical devices
Some embodiments of a medical device anchor system include an anchor device that receives a catheter (or other medical instrument) and secures the catheter in place relative to a skin penetration point. In some embodiments, the anchor device can secure the catheter in an operative position relative to the skin without the use of sutures or skin tapes. In particular embodiments, the anchor device can be adjusted to a folded condition so that subcutaneous anchors are partially rotated prior to removal from the skin penetration point.
US08974432B2 Outer cover for an absorbent article
An outer cover for an absorbent article has an absorbent capacity in addition to the absorbency of an absorbent insert. The outer cover may have two or more layers, at least one of which has liquid absorption capacity. Another layer may be hydrophobic. The outer cover as a whole may be breathable and water-impermeable.
US08974430B2 Absorbent article comprising an activated region
An absorbent article may comprise an absorbent assembly comprising an absorbent core. The article may also comprise a chassis formed by a web comprising at least one continuous layer that forms a portion of a water-impermeable backsheet and a portion of laterally opposing side flaps. The chassis may further comprise a longitudinal axis, a lateral axis, a front waist region comprising a front waist edge, a back waist region comprising a back waist edge, a crotch region between the waist regions, laterally opposing side edges extending between the front waist edge and the back waist edge, an exterior surface, and an interior surface to which the absorbent assembly is attached. The attachment of the absorbent assembly may be shaped. The chassis may further comprise a continuously activated region disposed in one or both of the front and back waist regions of the article. The continuously activated region may comprise longitudinally oriented ridges and valleys, wherein the continuously activated region overlaps the portion of the chassis where at least one abdominal stretch panel is disposed.
US08974426B2 Method of thermal treatment of a thermally responsive material of medical devices
The present invention relates to a method of thermal treatment of thermally responsive material wherein areas in or on the material to be thermally treated are defined and thermal energy is inputted on or into the defined areas in order to change/influence the material characteristics. The present invention further relates to medical devices or parts thereof manufactured at least in part from thermally responsive material by a process comprising at least one step of thermal treatment of this thermally responsive material.
US08974420B2 Large french size hemostatic valve configuration
A hemostasis valve for a vascular introducer includes a valve body having a seal region with opposed substantially planar proximal and distal end surfaces and a central axis extending through the seal region perpendicular to the proximal and distal end surfaces. The seal region has a first grouping of circumferentially arranged and equidistantly spaced linear cuts extending radially outward from the central axis, and through the seal region from the proximal end surface to the distal end surface. The seal region has a second grouping of circumferentially arranged and equidistantly spaced linear cuts in the distal end surface extending tangentially outward from the first grouping of linear cuts, and partially from the distal end surface to a depth short of the proximal end surface to facilitate passage of a variety of sizes of medical devices through the seal region.
US08974418B2 Forwardly directed fluid jet crossing catheter
A forwardly directed fluid jet crossing catheter having a distally directed cylindrical flow fluid jet stream to cross a chronic total occlusion is set forth. The distal end of the device includes a formable catheter tip region having flexible internal components. Low and high pressure cavities are formed substantially by joined proximal and distal catheter tubes having an adhesive plug seal in common therebetween which partially defines one end of each of the low pressure and high pressure cavities. A guidewire tube and a high pressure tube are aligned along and within the low pressure and high pressure cavities and through the adhesive plug seal. The high pressure tube openly terminates in the high pressure cavity, whereby pressurized fluid transfers from the high pressure cavity in the guidewire tube entry hole to subsequently pass along the guidewire lumen and co-located guidewire to exit as a cylindrical fluid jet stream.
US08974416B2 Disposable cassette for an infusion pump for medical use and method for manufacture thereof
A disposable cassette intended for a metering pump for infusion consisting of just two components, namely, a hollow first component (1) forming a pump body, and a second component (5) collaborating with the hollow first component (1) to form a pumping zone (6) and comprising a flexible part (10) characterized in that the second component (5) further comprises a rigid part (9) secured to the flexible part (10) and able to be assembled with the hollow first component (1). The invention also relates to a method for manufacturing such a disposable cassette.
US08974414B2 IV drip chamber with filter and bottom reservoir
A drip chamber having an upper reservoir that is separated from a lower reservoir via a filter assembly, wherein a distance between the filter assembly and a bottom surface of the drip chamber is selected to prevent dislodged air bubbles of the filter assembly from being drawn into an intravenous fluid line that is coupled to the bottom surface of the drip chamber, during an infusion procedure.
US08974406B2 Interface for medical infusion pump
Methods and apparatus for programming a medical infusion pump are disclosed. One method includes displaying a meter having two or more locations, each of the two or more locations representing a corresponding parameter value programmable into the medical infusion pump. The method further includes displaying an indicator having a selectable positional relationship to the meter, the selected position corresponding to a parameter value.
US08974398B2 Removable energy source for sensor guidewire
A transmitter unit with an attachable energy source is provided for a sensor guidewire. The transmitter unit is adapted to be connected to a proximal end of a sensor guidewire provided, at its distal end, with a sensor to measure a physiological parameter inside a patient. In some embodiments, the transmitter unit is adapted to wirelessly communicate by a communication signal with a communication unit, arranged in connection with an external device, in order to transfer measured physiological data to the external device. The attachable energy source can be a battery pack or battery holder provided with connecting electrical connecting surfaces. Preferably, the connection is protected from penetrating fluids by a protective seal.
US08974397B2 Dislocation sensor
A cardiac therapy device and/or a cardiac monitoring device connected to at least one electrode lead that includes at least one first sensing electrode pole and at least one second sensing electrode pole. The at least one first and second sensing electrode poles move relative to one another during operation of the device. The device further includes a dislocation detection unit connected directly or indirectly to the at least one first and second sensing electrode poles. In order to detect dislocation, the dislocation detection unit evaluates detection times at the at least one first and second sensing electrode pole relative to one another. The detection times are ascribable to a cardiac event, such that the dislocation unit generates a dislocation signal if the relative time relationship of the detection times changes beyond a predetermined value, or a specifically determined value changes compared to a previously recorded reference value.
US08974393B2 Ultrasonic probe
An ultrasonic probe, from which heat generated in an integrated circuit which is bonded to a cMUT is released, is provided. The ultrasonic probe includes a transducer which is configured to generate ultrasound radiation, an integrated circuit which is installed on the rear surface of the transducer, a printed circuit board which is installed on the rear surface of the integrated circuit and has an opening via which the rear surface of the integrated circuit is at least partially exposed, a heat spreader which has a protrusion inserted into the opening of the printed circuit board and is configured to absorb heat generated in the integrated circuit, and a heat dissipation module which is configured to release heat absorbed by the heat spreader to the outside.
US08974392B2 Ultrasonic probe
An ultrasonic probe has an organism contact portion that is shaped for use along a comparatively large curvature and can easily be used while closely contacting an organism. The probe includes a first cylinder pulley secured to a probe casing, an arm secured to a motor spindle extending through the first pulley, and a second cylinder pulley rotatably arranged on the opposite side and coupled to the first pulley by a wire. The second pulley is equipped with a slider shaft that is arranged to be extendable by a slider bearing. The slider shaft is equipped with a roller contacting a guide rail of the casing. An ultrasonic element is attached to the distal end of the slider shaft to provide the telescopic structure for the slider shaft. In this manner, the size of a scanning mechanism, for oscillating the ultrasonic element along a large curvature, is reduced.
US08974388B2 Ultrasound probe and ultrasound elasticity imaging apparatus
An ultrasound elasticity imaging apparatus includes an elastic data processing section which processes a received signal detected by an ultrasound probe and generates elastic frame data, a display evaluation section which evaluates a display value of the elastic frame data based on various data in the generation of the elastic frame data, a display processing section which performs image processing of the elastic frame data according to the evaluation result by the display evaluation section, and a display section which displays an elastic image based on the elastic frame data processed by the image processing section.
US08974387B2 Analyte testing method and device for diabetes management
Various embodiments are described and illustrated to calculate an insulin bolus, recommend such bolus, and provide reminder messages for performing an additional glucose test.
US08974385B2 Method and apparatus for providing blood glucose management information
An apparatus and method of providing blood glucose management information includes a determination unit that determines a similarity of a blood glucose change pattern of a user by comparing blood glucose information obtained from the user and stored blood glucose information, an extraction unit that extracts at least one piece of blood glucose information from the stored blood glucose information according to the similarity and generates extracted blood glucose information, and an interface unit which provides the blood glucose management information, which corresponds to the extracted blood glucose information, to the user.
US08974382B2 Medical tube retaining device
A new medical tube guiding device, the device including a first patient engaging portion configured to engage a zone of an upper jaw of the patient and a second patient engaging portion configured to engage a zone of a lower jaw of the patient. The first and second patient engaging zones are biased apart to provide a working gap between them. The invention also provides for a guide means for a medical tube that is supportable on one or both of the patient engaging portions and locatable relative to the patient engaging portions to guide the medical tube through the working gap into a mouth of the patient.
US08974379B2 Medical systems for accessing an internal bodily opening
Medical systems, devices and methods are provided for accessing a bodily opening that, among other things, are safe and reliable, and facilitate manipulation of a medical instrument. The medical access device generally includes an elongated flexible sheath and a port connected to the distal end of the flexible sheath. The sheath defines a sheath lumen and a longitudinal axis. The port has an interior surface defining a passageway and an exterior surface that is tapered in a distal direction. The passageway is in communication with the sheath lumen. The exterior surface of the port defines a radially opening channel sized to receive at least a portion of the tissue therein.
US08974378B2 Scanning endoscope apparatus
A scanning endoscope apparatus includes a light source section that emits illumination light, an optical fiber that irradiates the illumination light from a distal end to a subject with directivity, a drive element and a scanning drive section that perform scanning by the distal end of the optical fiber, a first light detection section that detects light from a direction of the distal end of the optical fiber, a second light detection section that detects light from an entire scanning range, and an image processing section that forms image information to be outputted to a display section based on a result of addition of a detection result corresponding to an external factor light component in a first light detection result and a second light detection result.
US08974374B2 Surgical manipulator
A surgical manipulator includes an intracorporeal unit that is completely arrangeable within a body cavity and that includes a coupling member and an effector. An extracorporeal unit includes a manipulator to manipulate at least the effector, and a connecting unit for connecting the intracorporeal unit to the extracorporeal unit when the intracorporeal unit is arranged within the body cavity and for transferring manipulating activities from the extracorporeal unit to the intracorporeal unit.
US08974373B2 Capsule-type medical device
The position of an antenna incorporated in a capsule-type endoscope 3 that moves in a body is estimated using a plurality of antennae, and where the distance dij between two positions Pti and P(t−1)j estimated at adjacent times falls within a predetermined value, pieces of information for these positions are related to each other and stored in a memory as connection information. Subsequently, processing for searching for a route from the connection information stored in the memory and calculating a track is performed.
US08974371B2 Through the scope tension member release clip
Apparatus includes Flexible Sheath extending from a proximal end which extends into living body; Capsule extending from a proximal to a distal end and having an opening formed in a proximal end thereof; Clip Assembly provided in Capsule and configured to be operably movable between a closed configuration in which first and second arms of Clip Assembly are drawn toward one another and an expanded configuration in which the first and second arms are separated from one another to receive target tissue therebetween; Bushing extending between a proximal end coupled to Sheath and a distal end releasably coupled to Capsule via a tab on the distal end of Bushing engaging the opening of Capsule; and Control Member a distal end of which is releasably coupled to Clip Assembly to transmit to Clip Assembly forces applied thereto to move Clip Assembly between the insertion and expanded configurations.
US08974370B2 Method of treating erectile dysfunction
A surgical method of treating erectile dysfunction includes implanting a penile prosthetic in a patient. The penile prosthetic includes an inflatable portion implantable into a penis that is attachable to a liquid reservoir, a pump, and a deflation assembly. The method includes implanting the deflation assembly in contact with an exterior surface of a pelvis of the patient, and positioning an activation surface of the deflation assembly away from the exterior surface of the pelvis. The method thus allows the patient to palpate the activation surface through skin.
US08974369B2 Pelvic harness and method of manufacturing same
One feature pertains to a pelvic harness comprising a tab having a first surface that is adapted to secure to at least a portion of a superior pubic skin region, and a saddle having a first surface adapted to secure to at least a portion of a perineal-anal region. The tab may be positioned at a first end of the pelvic harness, and the saddle may be positioned at a second, opposite end of the pelvic harness. The pelvic harness may further comprise a frame having a first end and a second end, where the frame's first end is coupled to the tab and the second end is coupled to the saddle. A portion of the frame may form an opening positioned in between the tab and the saddle. The frame may include a rail portion that includes at least two rails that define the opening.
US08974368B2 Pelvic tissue support devices
A delivery system is provided that is adapted to treat various urological pelvic disorders, such as prolapse, incontinence, and the like. The delivery system can include at least one biologic loaded or otherwise provided with a bioactive agent. The biologic can comprise any drugs, hormones or steroids, stem cells, growth factors, proteins, and/or other bioactive agents to promote cell or tissue growth for the treatment and strengthening of organ walls or tissue. The biologic is generally adapted to controllably release the agent to the surrounding tissue or organ to provide a local and targeted delivery.
US08974363B2 Topical medicaments and methods for photodynamic treatment of disease
New photodynamic, topically-applicable medicaments and certain medical uses of such photodynamic medicaments for treatment of human or animal tissue are described, wherein a primary active component of such medicaments is a halogenated xanthene. The halogenated xanthenes constitute a family of potent photosensitizers that become photoactivated upon illumination of the treatment site with visible wavelengths of light. In preferred embodiments, such medicaments are used for treatment of a variety of conditions affecting the skin and related organs; the mouth and digestive tract and related organs; the urinary and reproductive tracts and related organs; the respiratory tract and related organs; various other internal or external tissue surfaces, such as tissue surfaces exposed during surgery; and for treatment of a variety of conditions related to microbial or parasitic infection. In another preferred embodiment, such medicaments are produced in various formulations including liquid, semisolid or aerosol delivery vehicles.
US08974360B2 Creasing device, image forming system, and creasing method
A creasing device forms a crease in a to-be-folded portion of a sheet. The creasing device includes a sheet-information reading unit that reads any one of sheet information and binding information; a determining unit that determines a surface, on which the crease is to be formed, of the sheet according to the one of the sheet information and the binding information read by the sheet-information reading unit; and a creasing unit that forms the crease on the surface determined by the determining unit.
US08974350B2 Trampoline
A trampoline includes a rebounding portion and a circular support rack. The rebounding portion includes a pad and a plurality of elastic members located on the circumference of the pad. The circular support rack is located around the rebounding portion and connected to the elastic members, and includes an inner ring side facing the rebounding portion and an outer ring side opposite to the inner ring side, and also includes at least one first support tube and one second support tube. The first support tube and second support tube have respectively a bent tube section, a first coupling end and a second coupling end corresponding to the first coupling end. The first coupling end includes a first support section located on the inner ring side, a second support section located on the outer ring side and at least one first ridge between the first and second support sections.
US08974348B2 Method and device for operating a hybrid vehicle
A method for operating a hybrid vehicle, having at least one first drive unit and one second drive unit, the second drive unit being started by at least one portion of the drive torque provided by the first drive unit in that the clutch situated between the first drive unit and the second drive unit is brought from a disengaged state into a slipping state. To improve the driving comfort of the hybrid vehicle during a start or a stop of the internal combustion engine, at least two clutches are shifted into the slipping state for starting the second drive unit.
US08974347B2 Fluid pressure control device for automatic transmission
A fluid pressure control device for an automatic transmission that transfers power from a motor via a friction engagement element, including: a first pump actuated by the power from the motor; a pressure regulator that regulates pressure of a working fluid pumped from the first pump; a first flow passage connected to an output port of the pressure regulator; a second flow passage connected to a fluid pressure chamber of the friction engagement element; a switcher that establishes and blocks connection between the first flow passage and the second flow passage; a second pump actuated by supply of electric power and capable of supplying the working fluid to the second flow passage with connection between the first flow passage and the second flow passage blocked by the switcher; and a pressure accumulator that accumulates pressure of the working fluid. The pressure accumulator is connected to the first flow passage.
US08974346B2 Method and system to control vehicle operation
Methods and systems are provided for performing a multiple gear downshift of a transmission gear by transiently operating in an intermediate gear. In response to ambient humidity and a condensate level in a charge air cooler, the transmission gear may be downshifted from a higher gear to an intermediate gear, and then to a requested lower gear. Downshifting through an intermediate gear may also be controlled based on the gear shift request.
US08974342B2 Axle assembly having a lubricant reservoir module
An axle assembly having a housing, a reservoir module, and an axle. The reservoir module may be configured to receive a lubricant and may be disposed in an arm portion of the housing. The axle may be disposed in the arm portion such that the axle extends through and is spaced apart from a tube portion of the reservoir module.
US08974337B2 Vehicle power transmission device and control system for power transmission
A power transmission apparatus for a vehicle which includes a first, a second, and a third rotor which split power among a motor-generator, an internal combustion engine, and a driven wheel of the vehicle. The apparatus also includes a torque transmission control mechanism which selectively transmits torque between the first rotor and the engine. When the torque transmission control mechanism establishes the transmission of torque between the first rotor and the engine, powers, as produced by the second and third rotors, are opposite in sign to each other. This enables the speed of the first rotor to be set to zero (0) or a very low speed. Therefore, when an initial torque is applied to the engine through the first rotor to start the engine, the mechanical vibration which usually arises from the application of initial torque and is to be exerted on the power transmission apparatus is minimized.
US08974333B2 Tensioning device with at least two vent elements
A tensioning device for a continuous drive element includes a housing, a tensioning piston movably guided in the housing, and a pressure chamber for hydraulic fluid formed between the housing and the tensioning piston, wherein the tensioning piston comprises a vent opening, and a vent channel between the pressure chamber and the vent opening, formed by assembling at least two vent elements, wherein in the one vent element, in the contact surface to the second vent element, separate partial areas of the vent channel are formed by molded groove sections which are connected to each other by transfer grooves molded in the second vent element in the contact surface to the first vent element, such that sections of a main portion of the cross-section of flow of the vent channel are arranged on one side, and sections are arranged on another side of a plane spanned by the contact surfaces.
US08974328B1 Tunable broadhead with lockable blade assembly from shaft extending from broadhead tip
A tunable broadhead for archery is disclosed. The broadhead may be formed from a blade assembly that is secured in place by a tip having an elongated engaging shaft that extends through the blade assembly and is attachable to a support base. The support base is in turn attachable to an arrow. The blade assembly may be rotated into any position before the tip is tightened such that the blade assembly is placed under compression between the tip and the support base. Once the tip has been tightened, the blade assembly does not rotate. Such a configuration enables the blades of the broadhead to be indexed relative to the fletching on the arrow and enables the blades to be oriented consistently between multiple arrows in an archer's quiver, thereby enhancing accuracy regardless of the position of the insert within the end of an arrow to which the broadhead is attached.
US08974325B1 Soccer box
A portable, lightweight soccer rebounding wall with good rebound characteristics, whereby the pace of the rebounding soccer ball is similar to that of the pace at which it was imparted against the wall. The system is easily assembled and disassembled and is sufficiently light to be carried by one person for several hundred yards. In a specific implementation, the rebounding wall includes a panel of pultruded, fiberglass cross bar grating.
US08974320B2 Golf ball
The invention provides a golf ball with a surface having a plurality of dimples formed thereon. Some or all of the dimples on the ball surface have a cross-sectional shape in which, letting a straight line passing through any one edge of the dimple and a foot of a perpendicular (pedal) dropped from an imaginary plane defined by a peripheral edge of the dimple to a deepest point of the dimple serve as a reference line, and establishing a plurality of specific regions on the reference line from the dimple edge as 0% to the pedal as 100%, the average depths of the dimple from the reference line in the respective established regions satisfy specific conditions. By reducing the air resistance during flight and thus enhancing the aerodynamic performance, this golf ball achieves a higher trajectory, enabling the ball to travel further.
US08974318B1 Golf ball having core composed of a highly neutralized polymer
A golf ball comprising a core composed of a fully neutralized polymer material is disclosed herein. The golf ball also preferably has multiple mantle layers and a cover.
US08974315B1 Golf club aiming sight device
A golf club aiming sight device having a clamp portion and a rear sight portion. The rear sight portion has one or more openings to visualize a front sight on a club head of a golf club. The clamp portion provides for the attachment of the golf club aiming sight device to the shaft of the golf club so that the front sight is visually alignable with the opening in the rear sight. The front sight has a triangular shape and the rear sight has a triangular or V shape, thereby allowing rapid and accurate visual alignment of the front and rear sights, even while swinging the golf club. The golf club aiming sight device is used to train a user to swing the golf club without bending or rotating the wrists by having the user maintain the front sight visually aligned with the opening in the rear sight while swinging the golf club.
US08974314B2 Golf club swinging apparatus
A golf club swinging apparatus configured to support and provide for motion of a golf club along a pendulum swing path may comprise a frame, a rotation mechanism having club and frame coupling components, and an angle measurement mechanism. Another embodiment may comprise a frame, and a rotation mechanism configured to couple a golf club to the frame and to provide for rotation about a rotation point such that the golf club may follow a pendulum swing path through a strike position. Yet another embodiment may comprise a frame having a base component, a vertical component, and a cross-member component, a rotation mechanism rotatably coupled with the cross-member component, and a protractor having a freely rotatable arm configured to couple with the golf club and measure an angle at which the golf club is rotated about the rotation point along a swing path.
US08974308B2 System and method for gaming transactions
A method and system is provided to tie role-driven gaming purchases to executable transactions during a game so that on-line or related gaming systems create economic value inside the game itself. Players may control characters within a game which uses money to exchange goods or services to reach a goal, accomplish a task, or succeed in an event. The invention also provides for a participant to enter a game as a service provider to other players wherein the player receives compensation for the service. The service may be to provide aid in the form of a character or to provide educational services, for example. Accounts may be created to accumulate winnings or earnings as games are played.
US08974307B2 System for remote game access
A system for allowing a user to remotely access a game includes: a game console; a remote console client configured to receive a game control signal; and a remote console server. The remote console server includes an audio and video encoder configured to receive an audio output and a video output from the game console and to convert the audio output and the video output to a network packet. The remote console server also includes: a game controller emulation unit and a network interface configured to send and receive the network packet. The game controller emulation unit is configured to receive a game controller signal from the game console and to send the game controller signal to the remote console client and to receive a game controller input from the remote console client and send the game controller input to the game console.
US08974304B2 System, method, and apparatus for detecting abnormal behavior of a wagering game machine
Methods and apparatus for detecting abnormal behavior of a wagering game machine are described herein. In one embodiment, the method includes receiving an operating characteristic value, wherein the operating characteristic value indicates a value of an operating characteristic of a wagering game machine and based on a set of previous operating characteristic values of the operating characteristic, determining whether the operating characteristic value is within a normal operating range. In the embodiment the method also includes performing a fault operation if the operating characteristic value is not within the normal operating range.
US08974302B2 Multi-process communication regarding gaming information
Various embodiments that may generally relate to mobile gaming, location determination, mobile devices, authentication, and so on are described. Various methods are described. Various apparatus are described. Further embodiments are described.
US08974299B1 Metric based conformance by character units to specified formations
An approach to facilitating metric-based conformance by character units to specified formations is provided. An instance of a game space may be executed. The game space may have character units (including a first group of character units) that are controllable by a user to perform in-space actions. Values for one or more dynamic cohesiveness metrics associated with one or more of the user or character units of the first group may be determined. Responsive to reception of a first action request specifying a formation for the first group and a second action request specifying a first in-space objective for the first group, the first group may attempt to perform the first in-space objective in the instance of the game space with a level of conformance (that is based on the determined values of the dynamic cohesiveness metrics) to the specified formation during the attempted performance of the first in-space objective.
US08974295B2 Intelligent game system including intelligent foldable three-dimensional terrain
An intelligent game system and apparatus comprises one or more sensors, a controller, a projector, one or more game pieces and one or more foldable three-dimensional terrain pieces. The game board and terrain pieces comprise one or more sensors each having an identifier for sensing when a game piece or terrain piece is located on the game board and/or terrain piece. The sensors obtain object information from the game pieces and/or terrain pieces and transfer the object information to a controller. The sensors of the terrain pieces transfer the object information to the sensor of the terrain piece below them until the bottom terrain piece transfer the object information to a game board sensor. The controller is thereby able to track properties of the game and/or terrain pieces, such as position, and adjust the gameplay accordingly.
US08974291B2 Cashless gaming system: apparatus and method
An apparatus and method for cashless gaming wherein a player can access credits via a pin activated keypad located on the gaming machine. Real-time accounting allows the player to redeem credits and secure perquisites as a function of patronage.
US08974286B2 Combined behavior schedules of reinforcement system
A device and method of operating a device to modify the rate of behavior of a user and a method of operating the device which may be a gaming device. The gaming device comprises a display, an input device, a timer and a processor circuit in communication with the display, the input device and the timer. The processor circuit calculates a rate of inputs from the input device and compares the rate of inputs against a predetermined threshold and determines a game result utilizing a variable interval schedule of reinforcement when the rate is above a predetermined threshold and causes the display to display a game result to the user. The method comprises receiving a plurality of inputs from the user at a user input device, calculating a rate of input from the plurality of inputs, determining a result from the inputs utilizing a combined differential reinforcement of high rate schedule of reinforcement and a variable interval schedule of reinforcement and providing the result to the user.
US08974284B2 System and method of providing wagering opportunities based on external triggers
The invention relates to systems and methods of selecting and placing real-world wagers responsive to one or more wager triggers, obtaining outcomes of the real-world wagers, facilitating user interactions with various interactive media, and revealing the outcomes of the real-world wagers through the interactive media to give an appearance that the outcomes of the real-world wagers resulted from the user interactions even though the outcomes resulted from the real-world wagers and were determined before the user interactions. The system may trigger a wager opportunity based on external information. The external information may include, without limitation, social profile information, location information, partner-provided information, content consumption information, timing information, and/or other information that may be used to trigger a wager opportunity. The triggered wager may include a real-world wager or other wager such as a virtual or simulated wager.
US08974277B2 System and method for fantasy mixed martial arts game
Embodiments for a system and method for establishing a plurality of MMA fantasy leagues to a plurality of participants utilizing an automated web-based platform are disclosed. In each embodiment, participants register into the web-based platform in order to create or join a fantasy league organized to play an MMA fantasy fighter game in accordance with game rules, including scoring metrics based on the outcomes of real-world MMA fight events; holding period, transactional (add/drop), or fight quantity restrictions; a predefined course of time; and a predefined method of victory. Participants can draft fighters from real-world MMA fighters to create fantasy teams. Depending on embodiment, league winners may be determined by total points scored throughout the season or just during a final playoff period.
US08974276B2 Generating reminders for game conditions
Systems and methods to generate reminders for game conditions are described. In some embodiments, a method accesses a game condition identifier associated with a game condition for a user of an online game. The method further determines a value associated with the game condition identifier and generates a reminder associated with the game condition based on the value of the game condition identifier. The reminder is presented to the user along with a user response interface that allows the user to indicate whether the user has performed a particular action with respect to the game condition. The game condition identifier is updated based on a response received from the user regarding whether the user has performed the particular action with respect to the game condition.
US08974275B2 Passive ventilation stack
A passive ventilation stack for a room, building or the like comprises an interior space and first and second openings providing fluid communication between the interior space and a room to be ventilated, and the outside atmosphere. A control system is provided for varying the size of the openings, so as to cause natural heat exchange between relatively cool ventilation air entering the stack from outside and relatively warm air entering the stack from a room or building to be ventilated.
US08974274B2 Evaporative induction cooling
A data center cooling system includes an evaporative cooling system. The evaporative cooling system includes fans configured to circulate outside air at ambient conditions through an entry zone of a data center, and atomizers positioned upstream of the entry zone configured to spray atomized water into the circulating outside air. The atomized water evaporates in an evaporation zone and cools the outside air to produce cooled air, which is directed through racks of computers positioned downstream of the evaporation zone.
US08974273B2 Air nozzle
The invention relates to an air nozzle for conducting an air flow from an air feed shaft or an air feed duct in a heating, a ventilating or an air-conditioning installation, particularly for passenger compartments in motor vehicles, consisting of a hollow-cylindrical housing with a front air outflow opening and a rear air inflow opening as well as an insert, which is mounted in the housing and by which the direction and/or the intensity of the of the air flow issuing from the air nozzle is or are variable. For improved mounting and easier assembly the insert has an outer surface which is spherical at least in sections and is supported at the inner surface of the housing by way of at least two bearing points of matching contour, wherein a spring element is associated with at least one bearing point.
US08974267B2 Insert carrier and method for the simultaneous double-side material-removing processing of semiconductor wafers
An insert carrier is configured to receive at least one semiconductor wafer for double-side processing of the wafer between two working disks of a lapping, grinding or polishing process. The insert carrier includes a core of a first material that has a first surface and a second surface, and at least one opening configured to receive a semiconductor wafer. A coating at least partially covers the first and second surfaces of the core. The coating includes a surface remote from the core that includes a structuring including elevations and depressions. A correlation length of the elevations and depressions is in a range of 0.5 mm to 25 mm and an aspect ratio of the structuring is in a range of 0.0004 to 0.4.
US08974263B2 Method of manufacturing organic light emitting diode arrays and system for eliminating defects in organic light emitting diode arrays
A method for manufacturing an organic light emitting diode (OLED) array is provided that includes applying an energizing signal to at least one of the OLED pixels in the array. The energizing signal exceeds a threshold level. The method also includes reducing the energizing signal and identifying an OLED in the array that continues to remain energized. The method further includes irradiating the identified OLED to degrade the organic material in the OLED. A method of performing quality control in a manufacturing process of an OLED array is provided. The method includes determining an intensity, a time and a wavelength of radiation sufficient to render an OLED of the OLED array inoperative by degrading organic material in the OLED. A system of performing quality control in a manufacturing process of an OLED array is provided. A computer-readable medium having stored thereon computer-executable instructions is provided.
US08974260B1 Cutter assembly for a motor propeller
A cutter assembly includes cutting blades spaced equidistant around a motor housing cover. The blades' cutting edges are orthogonal to a plane rotated around a housing centerline axis. Each cutting blade is ninety degrees from its adjacent cutting blades with respect to the housing centerline axis, and forty-five degrees from an axis orthogonal to the housing centerline. An embodiment includes a hinged cylindrical cover blade base locking around the housing for existing motor housings. Each cutting blade provides a forward oriented surface having a convex portion, an aft oriented surface having a convex portion, and a tip end. An embodiment provides a cutting blade tip end angle with respect to a housing centerline axis equal to the motor propeller blade pitch with respect to the same axis.
US08974256B2 Terminal fitting and production method therefor
A terminal fitting has a rectangular tube (12) with first and second side plates (16, 17) extending from a receiving plate (15). A supporting plate (18) extends from a front of the first side plate (16) and is connected to a resilient contact (23). An outer plate (20) extends from a front of the second side plate (17) and is placed on the outer surface of the supporting plate (18). A first ceiling plate (25) extends from a rear of the first side plate (16) and is at an inner side of the supporting plate (18). A second ceiling plate (27) extends from a rear area of the second side plate (17), at an inner side of the supporting plate (18) and is placed on the first ceiling plate (25). A retainer (21) is formed on the rear of the outer plate (20).
US08974249B2 Electrical connector
An electrical connector includes a body with a tongue and the body supports a terminal module, the terminal module including a first row of terminals and a second row of terminals. Each terminal includes a contact portion and a soldering portion, the contact portions of the first and second row of terminals being disposed on an upper side and a lower side of the tongue, respectively, and the soldering portions of the first and second row of terminals each being arranged in a front column and a back column. A first and second positioning element can support the first and second rows of terminals, respectively. A shield that envelopes a periphery of the insulating body forms a contact chamber for accommodating the tongue. The front portion of the shield can be recessed into the circuit board to reduce the effective height of the connector and circuit board.
US08974245B2 Grounding electrical connector
An electrical connector includes a base member and first and second legs extending outwardly from the base member. A first recess is defined by the first and second legs for receiving a support. Second recesses extend inwardly from second sides of the first and second legs. A plurality of pairs of oppositely disposed grooves are formed in the second recesses. At least two pairs of the oppositely disposed grooves have different sizes for receiving various conductor sizes.
US08974243B2 Cable for transmitting signals
A cable for the transmission of signals, includes a plurality of leads, on whose inner conductors an electrically conductive end piece is affixed. At least one of the end pieces includes a first latching element. The cable includes a coupler element, and the coupler element has a body having a longitudinal axis. In addition, the body has parallel feed-throughs, electrically insulated from each other, to accommodate the end pieces. At least one of the feed-throughs includes a second latching element. The end piece is inserted into the feed-through such that the first latching element locks into place with the second latching element. The body furthermore has a first surface and a second surface to guide a mating piece of the coupler element, the first surface having a radially outwardly directed normal vector, and the second surface having a radially inwardly directed normal vector.
US08974240B2 Electrical connector with detect pins
An electrical connector comprises an insulative housing, a metallic shell surround the insulative housing, a plurality of contacts and two detect modules retained to the metallic shell. The insulative housing is formed with a base and a tongue extending forwardly from the base. The shell and the insulative housing define a receiving cavity therebetween. The detect module have a detect pin, respectively, the detect pins extend into the receiving cavity through the shell and electrically connecting with each other via a shell of a mating plug.
US08974235B2 Electric connection box and relay module
A relay box is provided with: a main housing; and a mounting section, which is provided in the main housing, and has selectively mounted thereon a relay block having a plug-in relay mounted thereon and removable therefrom, and a relay module which houses, in a module case, a circuit configuring body having a switching element mounted thereon.
US08974230B2 System and method for creating ink art
A system, method and apparatus is disclosed for coloring a substantially wicking substrate comprising applying to a substantially wicking substrate an ink comprising a first dye and a second dye to define a region of reference; applying a first solvent to the substantially wicking substrate to move the first dye and the second dye within the body of the substantially wicking substrate; moving the two dyes in a defined direction to carry the two dyes outside of the defined region to color an area of the wicking substrate to color at least a portion of the substantially wicking substrate.
US08974225B2 Combustion process
A combustion process wherein a comburent, a fuel and the following components are fed: i) component B) sulphur or compounds containing sulphur in an amount to have a molar ration B1/C1≧0.5, wherein B1 is the sum by moles between the total amount of sulphur present in component B)+the total amount of sulphur (component B11)) contained in the fuel, C1 is the sum by moles between the total amount of alkaline and/or alkaline-earth metals contained in the fuel (component C11))+the amount (component C)) of alkaline and/or alkaline-earth metals in the form of salts and/or oxides contained in component B), ii) component A), comprising low-melting salts and/or oxides or their mixtures, having a melting temperature<1,450 K, wherein the ratio by weight A′/(A″−A′)≧1:100, wherein A′ is the sum by moles between the metals under the form of low-melting salts and/or oxides or their low melting mixtures in the component A) and the amount of metals of low-melting salts and/or oxides contained in the fuel, A″ is the sum of the amount of all the metals contained in the fuel and those contained in component A), in which the combustor is isothermal and flameless.
US08974224B2 Position-locking apparatus for insert and over molding of delicate components
Method and apparatus for overmolding delicate parts are disclosed. A mold unit for an injection molding apparatus can be provided. The mold unit can include a clamping mechanism and a locking mechanism. The clamping mechanism can be positioned in contact with the delicate part. The position of the clamping mechanism can be selected such that the clamping mechanism does not exert a force that damages the delicate part. The delicate part can vary in size from part to part. Thus, as the overmolding process is repeated, the position that is selected each time for the clamping mechanism can vary depending on the size of a part that is used. The locking mechanism can be configured to lock the clamping mechanism into the position selected for the part.
US08974217B2 Reconfigurable shape memory polymer tooling supports
A method and support apparatus for providing structural support to a mold or mandrel, such as a shape memory polymer (SMP) apparatus configured for shaping a composite part. The support apparatus may comprise a rigid structural member and a plurality of SMP cells attached thereto and configured to inflate or deploy in a malleable state toward and against a surface of the SMP apparatus, mold, or mandrel. Then the SMP cells may be returned to a rigid state while still pressed against this surface, thereby providing structural support when composite material is applied to an opposite surface of the SMP apparatus, mold, or mandrel. After the composite material is cured into the finished composite part, the SMP cells may be deflated or otherwise collapse toward the structural member to provide enough clearance to be removed from the cured composite part.
US08974214B2 Device for manufacturing optical film
Provided is a device for manufacturing an optical film having satisfactorily reduced thickness unevenness, by using a melt-casting film forming method, which device includes a casting die for discharging a molten film-forming material including a thermoplastic resin into a film-like shape; a pair of a first rotation roll and a second rotation roll between which the discharged film-shaped molten article is pinched to be cooled and solidified to make the film-shaped molten article; and two pairs of wind shield plates each of which pairs are arranged between the shaft-direction ends of the first and second rotation rolls and an end part in the width-direction of the film-shaped molten article, wherein the wind shield plates are placed approximately perpendicular to the surface of the film-shaped molten article, and wherein each pair of the wind shield plates are placed approximately in parallel.
US08974213B1 Large shells manufacturing apparatus
The current document discloses an apparatus and method that support manufacture of large 3D hollow objects or shells with thin walls including curved surfaces with high and low curvature change ratio and alleviate or significantly reduce the need for support structures. Further to this, introduction of support structures becomes a function of the curved surface curvature change ratio.
US08974211B2 System for aiding in the replacement of a mould of a moulding unit of a machine for manufacturing containers
A system for aiding in the replacement of a mold in a molding unit of a machine for manufacturing containers, includes at least one transport device (16) for transporting a joined mold (18) forming a transportable unit subassembly, the transport device (16) including at least one robotic arm (96) for positioning, in space along a trihedron (X, Y, Z) and with respect to the molding unit (12), elements (76) for handling at least one joined mold (18) so as to carry out a replacement of the at least one mold (18) of the molding unit (12).
US08974207B2 Gear pump
This invention relates to a gear pump (1) for delivering a fluid, comprising an externally toothed gearwheel (3) rotatably mounted on a journal (4), and an internally toothed annular gear (2), the gearwheel and gear meshing so as to produce a delivery action, and arranged together with an electrically commutatable stator (7) inside a housing (5). The stator (7) extends concentrically around the annular gear (2) and cooperates with a magnetic ring (6) in order to generate an electromotive force and the magnetic ring (6) together with the annular gear (2) rotate in order to produce the delivery action. The annular gear (2) is mounted by means of a sliding bearing (25).
US08974205B2 Progressing cavity gas pump and progressing cavity gas pumping method
A progressing cavity gas pump with a stator which has a stator interior with an elastomeric inner surface as well as a gas outlet and a gas inlet, between which a pump delivery direction is defined, and with a rotor which engages with the stator interior, wherein below the stator, a lubricant reservoir is arranged which is connected via lubricant conduit devices to the stator interior. A progressing cavity gas pumping method using a progressing cavity gas pump, gas coming from a gas inlet is delivered with a rotationally driven rotor within a stator and through a stator interior having an elastomeric inner surface to a gas outlet and is compressed, and wherein from a lubricant reservoir below the stator, a lubricant supply to the stator interior takes place via lubricant conduit devices, and lubricant from the stator interior is recycled via the lubricant conduit devices into the lubricant reservoir.
US08974202B2 Device for processing an edible product
The invention relates to a device for processing an edible product in the form of a viscous to pasty mass, in particular, an edible product based on a fatty mass, such as chocolate, or based on water, such as ice cream. Said device comprises dosing units (D1, D2) for the dosed supply of a specific volume of the mass to a bearing surface. Said dosing units (D1, D2) comprise, respectively, a dosing piston (4) which is mounted in a piston chamber, whereby the dosing piston (4) moves at least in a rotational manner about the piston axis thereof (A1). A first plurality of dosing units (D1) are arranged on a first plane, and a second plurality of dosing units (D2) are arranged on a second plane. The dosing piston (4) of the dosing units (D1), which are arranged on the first plane (D1), are rotationally driven by means of a first drive element (7; 16), and the dosing piston (4) of the dosing units (D2), which are arranged on the second plane, are rotationally driven by means of a second drive element (8; 16).
US08974197B2 Compact structure for an electric compressor
The invention relates to a system and method of providing a compressor mechanism having a front housing, center housing and rear housing. The center housing includes an integrated compressor bearing support and compressor base surface that divides the housing into cantilevered wall sections. The system and method constructed in this manner provides a compact structure for an electric compressor with the ability to reduce noise vibration harshness.
US08974194B2 Advection-type fan and an impeller thereof
An impeller of an advection-type fan includes a metal base plate, a shaft and a plurality of plastic blades. The metal base plate includes a shaft-coupling portion and a peripheral portion, with a first plane facing in a first direction and a second plane facing in a second direction opposite to the first direction arranged between the shaft-coupling portion and the peripheral portion. The metal base plate is in a plane form between the shaft-coupling portion and the peripheral portion. The shaft has a fixing end and a free end. The fixing end is coupled with the shaft-coupling portion, and the free end extends in the first direction. Each plastic blade has a coupling portion and an air-driving portion. The coupling portion is coupled with the peripheral portion, and the air-driving portion extends in the second direction.
US08974188B2 Blade clip
A clip to connect a blade to a rotor disk, the blade with a root and a tip in a spanwise direction, and a leading edge and a trailing edge in a chordwise direction, the root with a bottom surface, includes a locking mechanism shaped to engage a complementary slot extending into the bottom surface of the blade root in the spanwise direction; a support connected to the locking mechanism extending the length of the bottom surface of the root in the chordwise direction; and first and second arms extending radially inward converging in an axial direction so that the arms are closer at their distal ends to engage the rotor disk.
US08974186B2 Coupling element segments for a rotor of a turbomachine
A rotor of a turbomachine has a rotor base body and a plurality of rotor blades. Every rotor blade has a blade body and a coupling element segment. The coupling element segment of every rotor blade is contoured at a first side and at a second side opposite the first side that, at the first side and at the second side, a radially outer edge of the respective coupling element segment extends substantially in axial direction and a radially inner edge of the respective coupling element segment extends substantially in axial direction respectively delimit two surfaces separated from one another by a separating line. In at least one circumferential position of the rotor between two directly adjacent rotor blades, the separating lines run approximately parallel to, or in alignment with, the mounting direction of the rotor blades at the rotor base body, which mounting direction is defined by the blade roots. In every other circumferential position between two directly adjacent rotor blades, the separating lines formed at directly adjacent sides of the coupling element segments are oblique relative to the mounting direction.
US08974183B2 Ceramic core tapered trip strips
A core die for creating an airfoil includes a first section, a second section mating with the first section, and an insert for creating a slot. The first section and the second section define a body having an outer dimension. The insert is disposed at an angle to the outer dimension. A trip strip includes a first portion disposed in the second section. The first portion is in register with the insert and a thickness is maintained between the first portion and the insert along a length of the insert. The first portion tapers towards the outer dimension and the thickness is filled by the ceramic material between the slot and the first portion.
US08974179B2 Convolution seal for transition duct in turbine system
A turbine system is disclosed. In one embodiment, the turbine system includes a transition duct. The transition duct includes an inlet, an outlet, and a passage extending between the inlet and the outlet and defining a longitudinal axis, a radial axis, and a tangential axis. The outlet of the transition duct is offset from the inlet along the longitudinal axis and the tangential axis. The transition duct further includes an interface member for interfacing with a turbine section. The turbine system further includes a convolution seal contacting the interface member to provide a seal between the interface member and the turbine section.
US08974177B2 Nacelle with porous surfaces
A fan nacelle for a gas turbine engine includes a leading edge region with a flow path between an intake region in a nacelle outer surface and an exhaust region in a nacelle inner surface to locally modify a flow around the leading edge region during a predefined off-design condition.
US08974175B2 Turbomachine compressor
A turbomachine compressor including variable-pitch vanes including an aerofoil section connected by a mounting plate of circular outline to a pivot guided in rotation in an orifice in a casing is disclosed. The mounting plate of the vane includes at least one notch for bleeding air from the compressor stream. The notch is intended to communicate with a hole in the casing in order to remove the air bled off when the vanes are in a first position, and to be closed off by this casing when the vanes are in a second position, so that the flow rate of bled air depends on the pitch angle of the vanes.
US08974173B2 Apparatus and process for providing arrays of absorbent articles in varying orientations for packaging
Apparatus for producing arrays of absorbent articles with varying orientations, and a methods for forming alternating arrays of absorbent articles, suitable to be operated at a high speed, are provided.
US08974169B2 Fork lift attachment tools and methods
A fork lift, and especially a fork lift for a truck, may have structure on a forklift carriage for selectively receiving any of a variety of attachment tools. Alternatively, an assembly may be secured to the carriage and the assembly may provide the structure for selectively receiving the attachment tools. The structure may include a bolt and lever mechanism for selectively securing and releasing the attachment tools. A method may include selectively securing any of a variety of attachment tools including, but not limited to, a trencher, an auger, a backhoe, and a hydraulic breaker. These attachment tools may be connected to a hydraulic system for control of the attachment tools. The method may include the preliminary steps of locking the forklift against movement along a mast and insertion of fork tips in pocket(s) supported in the truck.
US08974166B2 Wall anchor
A device (H) to be mounted to a friable wall (W) comprises a body (10) and at least one main saber tooth (12) extending rearwardly from an upper portion of the body (10) and adapted to be driven into the wall (W) for securing the device (H) thereto. The main saber tooth (12) is arcuate and has a pointed rear free end (22), and is adapted to be arcuately driven into the wall (W). An arcuate and pointy secondary saber tooth (14) extends rearwardly from a lower portion of the body (10) for insertion into the wall (W) before the main saber tooth (12) is inserted therein. The main saber tooth (12) defines a lower enlarged, and typically flat, load-bearing surface (30) for bearing against material of the wall (W). The main saber tooth (12) includes an upper transversely curved surface (32). A hook member (20) is provided on a front part of the body (10) for suspending items therefrom once the device (H) has been mounted to the wall (W).
US08974165B2 Screw
A screw has an outer diameter in a range of 0.3 mm to 1.4 mm. The screw includes resin and carbon fiber which is dispersed in the resin and has a fiber diameter in a range of 0.01 μm to 0.20 μm.
US08974163B2 Wedge-type drop-in anchor assembly
A hybrid drop-in anchor with an expansion sleeve, a split base region of an anchor body and a setting plug. The sleeve surrounds an annular body recess of the body, with a clip portion extending around an annular recess. Clip segments extend from the arcuate portion, each having a proximal portion with an original thickness and a distal portion having at least one projection, extending therefrom. The projection extends from the outer surface without corresponding cavity on an inner surface, with a projection of total thickness greater than the original thickness. After the setting plug is driven, and the threaded male member is inserted and tightened, pulling movement of the anchor moves the expansion sleeve baseward, such that each segment rides outwardly on the tapered portion, providing radial expansion of the anchor and locking, wedging engagement of each segment projection with wall surfaces with enhanced pull-out resistance.
US08974162B2 Anchor bolt and production method
An anchor bolt for an expansion anchor, and a method of producing the anchor bolt, is disclosed. The anchor bolt has an expansion body which is arranged coaxially with respect to an axis, where a circumferential surface of the expansion body has ribs and grooves in an alternating manner in a circumferential direction. Top surfaces of the ribs diverge from the axis in a direction along the axis. Bottom surfaces of the grooves converge in the direction of the axis.
US08974149B2 Method of joining two portions of an underwater pipeline for conducting fluids and/or gas
A method of joining two portions of an underwater pipeline for conducting fluid and/or gas on the bed of a body of water, the method including the steps of: joining a telescopic sleeve, having a first coupling head, to a first end of a first pipeline portion above the body of water; positioning the first end, the telescopic sleeve, and the first coupling head in a first given position on the bed of the body of water; joining a second coupling head to a second end of a second pipeline portion above the body of water; positioning the second end and the second coupling head in a second given position, close to the first coupling head, below the body of water; and connecting the first and second coupling head hermetically below the body of water.
US08974146B1 Apparatus for purifying asbestos-contaminated soil
Disclosed is an apparatus for purifying asbestos-contaminated soil capable of increasing the removable efficiency of removing the soil by applying a drop method, facilitating the scattering of asbestos by extending the drop time of soil, and improving the separation efficiency of the asbestos from the contaminated soil by preventing the generation of eddies in the soil. The apparatus includes a blowing unit 100 including a blowing case 110 provided with a vertical portion 111 and horizontal portions 112 and blowers 120; a drop unit 200 including a drop case 210, a storage hopper 220, a discharge device 230, shock absorbing plates 240, and guide plates 250; a transfer unit 300 including a plurality of transfer cases 310 and screens 320; and a discharge unit 400 having a third opening 401 and a vent hole 402.
US08974144B1 Rotatable wheel box service panel door and equalizer
Systems, devices, apparatus, and methods of locking and unlocking a door that is slidable by articulating wheels in tracks, over an entry port to a storm water structure. Locking the door can be accomplished by rotating bolts that are attached to cams. Rotating the bolts causes the cams to press the door against the tracks. Sealing strips can be compressed between door edges and the track to prevent water from passing around the door. A vacuum truck can remove water and debris from the vault/structure. Other versions allow doors to move downward to allow water to overflow the door. The door can slide upward so water can flow underneath. A door in door version has a secondary door slide up and down in tracks in a main door.
US08974133B2 Dispensing device with an electric motor
The present invention relates to a dispensing device (1) for dispensing glue or adhesive onto a substrate surface for the laying of floor coverings, in particular parquet or laminate in board format, comprising a glue cylinder (103) into which at least one pouch filled with glue or adhesive can be inserted, and comprising a plunger (10) which is disposed such as to be axially displaceable within the glue cylinder (103) so as to compress a pouch located within the glue cylinder (103) and so to push its contents out of the glue cylinder (103), an electric drive (9) being provided which is coupled to the plunger (10) in order to displace the plunger (10) axially within the glue cylinder (103).
US08974130B2 Lens barrel
A lens barrel includes a lens mount, a fixed frame, and a movable frame. The lens mount includes an attachment part to which the fixed frame is attached, and a recessed part which is adjacent to the attachment part and is recessed toward the camera body, and into which an end part of the movable frame enters at least when the movable frame is positioned closest to the lens mount. Part of the attachment part close to the camera body has a tapered surface inclined relative to the optical axis. A counterbore in which a screw for attaching the fixed frame to the attachment part is disposed is formed at the tapered surface. Due to the tapered surface, part of the lens mount where the attachment part is formed has a thickness greater than that of another part of the lens mount where the recessed part is formed.
US08974128B2 Retaining clip for camera mounting bracket
A camera mounting bracket system for supporting a camera in a position determined by a user comprising a quick connect/disconnect mounting assemblage which includes a fastener-engaging channel and spring retaining clip for securing the mounting assemblage to a camera whereby the camera is able to be quickly connected/disconnected from the mounting assemblage.
US08974126B2 Hybrid optical connector
Connector systems that carry electrical signals and optical signals in a single connector are provided. A male electro-optical connector can have an electrical insert portion that fits into a receptacle of a female electro-optical connector to provide a structural connection. The optical interface can be advantageously near a front of the connectors for easy maintenance. Optical connectors with a relatively large diameter for the optical interface are also provided. Optical connectors can include a collector for receiving optical signals at a large opening and providing signals to a photodiode at a small opening of the collector. Such optical connectors with a large diameter for an optical interface can advantageously provide reduced alignment tolerances. Adapters, cable adapters, docking stations, and other apparatus can also be provided.
US08974125B2 Air-cooled optical transceiver module system
In an opto-electronic system having one or more optical transceiver modules and an enclosure, air is forced through the interior of the transceiver module to dissipate heat generated by the opto-electronic and electronic elements.
US08974124B2 Fiber optic connector
A connector for a fiber optic cable is disclosed, as well as a housing therefor, wherein the housing is formed as a single unitary piece to simplify construction and assembly. A ferrule assembly may be configured in conjunction with the housing to provide a retentive coupling between the assembly and the housing upon insertion of the assembly into the housing.
US08974123B2 Rolling-element bearing cage and method for producing a rolling-element bearing cage
A rolling-element bearing cage (12) having two lateral rings (2) and a plurality of cage webs (1), wherein the laterals rings (2) and the cage webs (1) form a plurality of cage pockets (8). In order for the rolling-element bearing cage (12) to have an especially light and stable design, a respective recess (3) is formed in each of the corners (10) of the cage pockets (8). This recess is tapered or reduced toward the radial center (7) of the recess without forming a running surface for the associated rolling element (9). A method for producing the rolling-element bearing cage (12) is also provided, wherein a plurality of cage pockets (8) are milled into a solid cage blank, wherein the corners (10) of the cage pockets (8) are milled in such a way that a respective recess (3) is formed in each of the corners of the cage pockets, which recess is tapered or reduced toward the radial center (7) of the recess without forming a running surface for the associated rolling element (9).
US08974116B2 Heat sink for measuring temperature of electronic component
There is provided a heat sink for measuring temperature of electronic component. The heat sink includes a heat radiating plate, a fin, a heat receiving plate, and a temperature detector. The heat radiating plate has a first surface that receives heat from the electronic component. The fin is for radiating heat energy conducting through the heat radiating plate and is connected to the heat radiating plate. The heat receiving plate arranged apart from the heat radiating plate has a second surface movable to be parallel to the first surface. The temperature detector that detects a temperature is disposed on the heat receiving plate.
US08974114B2 Temperature verification for ultrasonic flow meters
Apparatus and methods for verifying temperature measurements in an ultrasonic flow meter. In one embodiment, an ultrasonic flow metering system includes a passage for fluid flow, a temperature sensor, and an ultrasonic flow meter. The temperature sensor is disposed to measure temperature of fluid flowing in the passage. The ultrasonic flow meter includes a plurality of pairs of ultrasonic transducers and control electronics. Each pair of transducers is configured to form a chordal path across the passage between the transducers. The control electronics are coupled to the ultrasonic transducers. The control electronics are configured to measure speed of sound between each pair of transducers based on ultrasonic signals passing between the transducers of the pair. The control electronics are also configured to determine, based on the measured speeds of sound, whether a measured temperature value provided by the temperature sensor accurately represents temperature of the fluid flowing in the passage.
US08974103B2 Light-emitting device with vignetting effect
A light-emitting device includes a light source, a panel and a light guiding structure. The light guiding structure includes a first light guiding tunnel and a second light guiding tunnel. The first light guiding tunnel includes a first end and a second end. A first opening is formed at the first end and close to the light source. The second light guiding tunnel includes a first end and a second end. The first end of the second light guiding tunnel communicates with the second end of the first light guiding tunnel. A diameter of the second end of the second light guiding tunnel is greater than a diameter of the first end of the second light guiding tunnel. A second opening is formed at the second end of the second light guiding tunnel. A diameter of the second opening is greater than a diameter of the first opening.
US08974102B2 Vehicular lighting system
A housing having an extrusion forming a first channel and a second channel; a lighting system in the first channel adapted to direct light away from the first channel; a mounting system in the second channel adapted to couple the extrusion to a vehicle; a first end cap including a first connector, the first end cap being coupled to a first end of the extrusion; a second end cap including a second connector, the second end cap being coupled to a second end of the extrusion; wherein the first connector and the second connector are electrically coupled to one another, and wherein the first connector and the second connector are electrically coupled to the lighting system.
US08974092B2 Lamp with air channel
A lamp comprises a housing, an inner shell, a fan, a heat sink and a lighting module. The housing has a first compartment and a first opening on an end thereof. The inner shell is adapted to be received in the first compartment and has a second compartment and a second opening on an end thereof, wherein the second opening is aligned with the first opening. An air channel is formed between the housing and the inner shell in the first compartment. The inner shell further comprises a through-hole allowing the first compartment to communicate with the second compartment. The fan is located adjacent to the through-hole and has two air-flowing sides for drawing air in and out of the lamp. The heat sink has a bottom plate with one face facing the fan. The lighting module is adapted to be coupled to another face of the bottom plate.
US08974091B2 Heat-dissipating structure for an LED lamp
A heat-dissipating structure for an LED lamp has a lamp cover, and a power conversion device and a ceramic substrate mounted inside the lamp cover. The lamp cover has multiple heat-dissipating holes and multiple mounting ears. Each mounting ear is formed on an edge of one of the heat-dissipating holes and is bent inwardly with the heat-dissipating hole uncovered. The ceramic substrate is mounted on the mounting ears. The ceramic substrate has multiple LEDs mounted thereon, absorbs heat generated when the LEDs emit light and conducts the heat to the lamp cover through the mounting ears. The heat generated when the LEDs are lit and the power conversion converts a mains power is transferred to a heat convection space between the ceramic substrate and the lamp cover, and is further dissipated to an ambient environment, thereby achieving fast heat dissipation and a light LED lamp without an additional heat sink thereon.
US08974086B2 Lens, mold for lens and method for machining mold
A lens used for a line generating optical system is provided, wherein X-axis is defined in longitudinal direction of the generated line, Y-axis is defined in width direction and Z-axis is defined in direction of the optical axis and wherein the lens has an optical surface which does not collimate the light in X-axis direction and which collimates or collects the light in Y-axis direction alone, inclination of direction of transferred tool mark with respect to X-axis being from 40 to 50 degrees in an area of 80% or more of the optical surface.
US08974084B2 Illuminating system of flexible shape
Disclosed is an illuminating system of flexible shape and comprising at least one LED disposed on a flexible carrier material, an optic being provided that permits uniform, directed and/or glare-free light emission.
US08974079B2 Lighting system with integrated EL panel
A lighting system has a receptacle for a light source disposed on a light fixture. The receptacle couples to a first power source, such as standard alternating current available in a building. An electroluminescent (EL) panel is disposed adjacent the light fixture and couples either to the same first power source or to a second power source, such as a direct current emergency power source of a battery or a building. For the EL panel also coupled to the first power source, circuitry illuminates the electroluminescent panel with power from the first power source when the receptacle for the light source is disconnected from the first power source. For the EL panel connected to the second power source, the circuitry illuminates the EL panel with power from the second power source during a failure of the first power source.
US08974078B2 Lamp with enhanced lighting angle
A lamp includes a mounting frame, at least one supporting member, and a plurality of light emitting members. The mounting frame is provided with a connecting face. The supporting member is provided with a support portion and a connecting portion. The connecting portion of the supporting member is combined with the connecting face of the mounting frame. Each of the light emitting members is a light emitting diode (LED). Thus, the support portion of the supporting member has a convex arcuate shape to provide a wide-angle feature, and the light emitting members are arranged on the support portion of the supporting member in different angles and at different positions, so that the lighting angles of the light emitting members are complementary mutually to increase the whole lighting angle of the lamp.
US08974076B2 Artistic lighting apparatus with cylindrical gobos
A device for creating and enhancing a mood is disclosed. The device includes a cylindrical gobo with a light source and a motor to rotate the gobo. The device may also include color-changing LEDs. Through variations in color, light source intensity and gobo design, a user may create or enhance a desired mood in a room.
US08974075B2 Focusable flashlight
A flashlight has a casing having a front end, a light source axially secured in the housing inward of the front end, and a two-part connecting sleeve forward of the light source and having a rear part secured in the housing and a front part. Interengaging formations couple the parts together for only limited axial movement relative to each other, but lock them rotationally and prevent axial separation beyond a predetermined limit. A lens is mounted in the front part. A head sleeve secured to the front part extends axially rearward over the front end of the casing so that relative axial movement of the front and rear parts axially shifts the lens relative to the source.
US08974074B1 Mounting system for airfield guard light
A mounting system for a light source. The mounting system can include a first portion having a light source coupling feature and a first vertical adjustment feature, where the first vertical adjustment feature includes first fastening features. The mounting system can also include a second portion mechanically coupled to the first portion, where the second portion includes a second vertical adjustment feature having second fastening features, where the second fastening features are mechanically coupled to the first fastening features. The mounting system can further include a horizontal adjustment feature disposed at a bottom end of the second portion and mechanically coupled to the second portion. The mounting system can also include a mounting feature mechanically coupled to the horizontal adjustment feature and configured to mechanically couple to a mounting device. The mounting system can further include a guarding device disposed on a top end of the second portion.
US08974072B2 Modular lighted tree with trunk electrical connectors
A lighted artificial tree includes a first tree portion including a first trunk portion, first branches joined to the first trunk portion, and a first light string. The first trunk portion has a trunk connector and a first trunk wiring assembly, the first trunk wiring assembly is electrically connectable to the first light string and the trunk connector, and at least a portion of the first wiring assembly is located inside the first portion. The second tree portion includes a second trunk portion, second branches, and a second light string. The second trunk portion has a trunk connector and a second trunk wiring assembly, the second trunk wiring assembly electrically connectable to the second lighting string and the trunk connector. The second tree portion may be mechanically coupled and electrically connected to the first tree portion by coaxially coupling the first trunk portion to the second trunk portion.
US08974070B2 Backlight units and display devices including the same
A display device includes a display panel which displays an image, a backlight unit which supplies the display panel with light, an upper cover, and a lower cover. The upper and lower covers accommodate the display panel and the backlight unit. The backlight unit includes light guide plates spaced apart from each other, a light source part, an optical member and an optical diffusion member overlapping a space between the light guide plates. The optical diffusion member includes a diffusing part and a supporting part. The diffusing part faces the optical member, overlaps the space between the light guide plates, and diffuses light emitted from the light source part toward the optical member through the space between the light guide plates. The supporting part protrudes from a surface of the diffusing part which is opposite to the optical member, and is in a space between the light sources.
US08974069B2 Optical diffusers with spatial variations
A diffuser is configured to diffuse radiation from multiple light sources. The diffuser includes a substrate having optical structures that exhibit both microvariations and macrovariations along the substrate. For example, an array of microlenses may be provided that include at least one feature that varies as a function of the spacing between the light sources. Lighting systems using these diffusers may also be provided.
US08974063B2 Exhaust port shutter apparatus and projector
An exhaust port shutter apparatus which is attached to an exhaust port of a projector, includes: a guide section in which a first guide groove is provided; louver boards each having a turning shaft pin, the louver boards in which each turning shaft pin is formed so as to have a length which allows the turning shaft pin to pass through the first guide groove and project to the outside of the guide section; and a cam roller that has a cam groove on a peripheral surface thereof, the cam groove into which each turning shaft pin fits, the cam roller that can reciprocate, by rotation thereof, each turning shaft pin by the cam groove along the first guide groove in a first direction, wherein the louver boards are rotated at a necessary angle as a result of the cam roller being rotated and open and close the exhaust port.
US08974062B2 Projection apparatus
A projection apparatus including a casing, a light source module, a fan, and a light engine module is provided. The casing has an inlet and an outlet. The light source module is disposed in the casing and is adjacent to the inlet. The fan is disposed in the casing and is adjacent to the outlet, and is configured to provide a heat dissipation airflow. The light engine module is disposed in the casing and is located between the fan and the light source module, and the heat dissipation airflow sequentially flows through the inlet, the light source module, the light engine module, the fan, and the outlet. The fan is disposed between the light engine module and the outlet.
US08974058B2 Eyeglass lens and design method, manufacturing method and design system for eyeglass lens
An eyeglass lens, comprising: a hidden mark defining a predetermined reference point; and refractive portions arranged along a meridian extending substantially in a vertical direction via the predetermined reference point, and wherein the refractive portions comprises: a first refractive portion located on a lower side of the predetermined reference point and having a first refractive power; a second refractive portion located on an upper side of the predetermined reference point and having a second refractive power smaller than the first refractive power; and an intermediate refractive portion in which refractive power continuously decreases, and an aberration distribution in the first refractive portion is substantially symmetrical in a left and right direction with respect to the meridian extending in the vertical direction, and an aberration distribution in the second refractive portion is asymmetrical in the left and right direction with respect to the meridian shifted to an ear side.
US08974056B2 Method for making a hybrid contact lens
The invention relates to a method for making a hybrid contact lens, comprising: a step of providing a hydrophilic disc (100); a step of providing a rigid disc (200); a step of hydrating the hydrophilic disc (100); a step of applying an adhesive element (202) on a surface of the rigid disc; a step of bonding the hydrophilic disc (100) to said surface of the rigid disc; a step of drying the two thus bonded discs (100); and a step of cutting the two thus bonded and dried discs (100).
US08974055B2 Method and apparatus for encapsulating a rigid insert in a contact lens for correcting vision in astigmatic patients
The present invention, as described above and as further defined by the claims below, provides methods for forming an Ophthalmic Lens that encapsulates a Rigid Insert, wherein the Rigid Insert may be tailored to correct specific astigmatic characteristics of an eye and apparatus for implementing such methods, as well as Ophthalmic Lenses formed with the Rigid Inserts.
US08974052B2 Printer
This disclosure discloses a printer configured to perform desired printing, comprising a substantially box-shaped housing, a partition wall that partitions an internal structure of the housing into a first area positioned on a first side, and a second area positioned on a second side opposite to the first side, a control substrate provided to the first area, a medium storage chamber configured to store the print-receiving medium and provided to the second area, an opening/closing lid configured to expose the medium storage chamber to the outside and provided to the housing and configured to open and close between an open position and a closed position, and a print processing mechanism configured to perform desired printing while feeding the print-receiving medium supplied from the medium storage chamber based on control by the control substrate.
US08974048B2 Printing method
A printing method including: ejecting an ink which includes a designated compound is ejected from a first nozzle row which is relatively move in an intersection direction intersecting a direction along the nozzle row with respect to a medium, ejecting the ink while relatively moving in the intersection direction to the medium, from the end portion of a second nozzle row which is overlapped with the end portion of the first nozzle row in a direction along the nozzle row direction, wherein when nozzles of the nozzle rows which are partly overlapped with each other in a direction along the nozzle row share with each other to form a common dot line, the amount of ink ejected per unit area in the partly overlapping region is larger than the amount of ink ejected per unit area in a non-overlapping region.
US08974047B2 Phase change ink containing ethylene vinyl acetate
A phase change ink composition including an ink vehicle; an optional colorant; and ethylene vinyl acetate in an amount of from about 0.1 to about 10 percent by weight based on the total weight of the phase change ink composition.
US08974040B2 Liquid droplet ejection head, image forming apparatus including same, and method for cleaning same
A liquid droplet ejection head including a common liquid chamber, multiple individual liquid chambers communicating with the common liquid chamber, to which a liquid is supplied via the common liquid chamber, a nozzle plate containing multiple nozzles communicating with the multiple individual liquid chambers to eject the liquid, a filter disposed within a passageway between the common liquid chamber and the multiple individual liquid chambers to remove foreign substances from the liquid, and a through-hole provided adjacent to the filter to communicate with the multiple individual liquid chambers, and sealed by a frame member in which the common liquid chamber is formed.
US08974039B2 Liquid supplying unit provided with circuit substrate
A circuit substrate includes: a substrate body and an electrode. The substrate body has four sides including first and second sides extending in a first direction and opposing each other in a second direction. The substrate body has a top surface on which the electrode is mounted. The electrode has first and second outer points positioned closest to the first and second sides in the second direction respectively. The top surface has: a first area between the first side and a first imaginary line extending in the first direction and passing through the first outer point; a second area between the second side and a second imaginary line extending in the first direction and passing through the second outer point; and a third area interposed between the first area and the second area in the second direction, the substrate body being formed with a first opening in the first area.
US08974030B2 Liquid ejecting apparatus, and non-transitory, computer-readable media therefor
A liquid ejecting apparatus may have a head with a plurality of head units. Each head unit may include a driver IC. An ejection timing signal (FIRE) may be transmitted from a control device to each of the driver ICs through an ejection timing signal line, which may be connected to the control device as a single line and split on its way to the driver ICs. The control device may further output delay information indicating a delay amount for the FIRE signal to the driver ICs through a control signal line through which a waveform pattern selection signal (SIN) is also transmitted. Each of the driver ICs may include a delay circuit that delays the FIRE signal by the delay amount indicated by the delay information.
US08974027B2 Printing apparatus and printing position adjusting method thereof
A printing apparatus prints by discharging inks from respective nozzle arrays, the printhead having a plurality of nozzle arrays including at least a first nozzle array, a second nozzle array, and a third nozzle array, and the first nozzle array and the second nozzle array being arrayed to be shifted in a nozzle arrayed direction. The printing apparatus controls the first and second nozzle arrays to discharge inks to form a plurality of first patterns. The printing apparatus controls the third nozzle array to discharge inks to form second patterns while changing a shift amount in a direction which intersects with the nozzle arrayed direction with respect to the plurality of first patterns. The printing apparatus calculates an adjustment value required to adjust relative printing positions between the first nozzle array and the third nozzle array in the intersecting direction using the first patterns and the second patterns.
US08974026B2 Liquid droplet ejection head, control device, control method, and manufacturing method of the same, and recording medium of the same methods
A control device of controlling a liquid droplet ejection head includes a head substrate; a head controller applying a drive voltage to the head substrate to control the ejection of liquid droplets; a relay substrate connecting the head substrate and the head controller; a main-body controller controlling the head controller; and a voltage conversion circuit disposed in the relay substrate. Further, the voltage conversion circuit converts a resistance value in accordance with a temperature of the head substrate into an output voltage, the relay substrate inputs the output voltage into the main-body controller, and the main-body controller detects the temperature based on the output voltage and determines the drive voltage based on the detected temperature.
US08974020B2 Device for adjusting gap between platen and print head and inkjet printer using the device
A device for adjusting gap between platen and print head includes a base, a printing unit, a platen and a pair of adjusting elements. The printing unit is located on the base and includes a print head. The platen is located between the printing unit and the base, in which the platen has a platen-portion and a pair of adjusting-portions, the adjusting-portions are disposed at opposite sides of the platen-portion, and each of the adjusting-portions has a step-guiding-surface. The adjusting elements are disposed beside the platen and correspondingly contact the step-guiding-surfaces of the adjusting-portions, in which the distance between the platen and the print head is varied with positions of the adjusting elements relative to the step-guiding-surfaces.
US08974019B2 Apparatus for and method of supplying liquid
A liquid supply apparatus includes a reservoir for storing a liquid therein, a supply path for supplying the liquid from the reservoir to a liquid consuming apparatus, a pump for feeding the liquid from the reservoir to the supply path, and a controller for outputting a driving signal to the pump to control the supply of the liquid. The controller acquires a target feed volume of the liquid from the pump to gradually change a feed volume of the liquid from the pump from a current feed volume to the target feed volume, based on a request signal from the liquid consuming apparatus serving as a destination to which the liquid is supplied. This suppresses an abrupt change in pressure in the liquid consuming apparatus serving as the destination to which the liquid is supplied.
US08974018B2 Liquid discharge apparatus and liquid circulation method
Disclosed herein is a liquid discharge apparatus including a transporting unit to transport a medium, a storage unit to store liquid, a head unit to discharge the liquid onto the medium, a plurality of supply flow paths to supply the liquid from the storage unit to the head unit, a plurality of bypass flow paths, and a controller that causes alternately to repeat a transport operation which transports the medium by the transporting unit and a liquid discharge operation which discharges the liquid from the head unit, thereby to form an image on the medium, and to circulate, when the liquid is not discharged during execution of the image forming process, the liquid within a circulation flow path constituted only by the supply flow paths and the bypass flow paths among the storage unit, the head unit, the supply flow paths, and the bypass flow paths.
US08974012B2 Autobraking interlock for an aircraft electric brake system
An electric autobrake interlock system for an aircraft includes an autobrake power interlock mechanism that prevents inadvertent (uncommanded) application of brakes. The autobrake power interlock removes operating power from the brake actuators whenever the autobrake actuation data does not indicate a legitimate autobrake application condition. The interlock processing occurs in parallel with the autobrake command processing such that even if an inadvertent autobrake command is generated, the brake actuators will be enable to act upon the inadvertent autobrake command. In this regard, the brake actuators are unable to apply brakes automatically unless the following two actions happen concurrently: the operating power is provided to enable the electric brake actuators and autobrake actuation control is commanded in response to the legitimate autobrake application condition.
US08974004B2 Vehicle seat
A vehicle seat including: a seat component such as a seat cushion and a seat back, the seat component including, a cushioning material constituting an outer shape of the vehicle seat, a through-hole penetrating the cushioning material in a thickness direction thereof, and a skin material configured to cover the cushioning material, wherein a reinforcing wire is embedded into the cushioning material at both sides of the through-hole, respectively.
US08974002B2 Vehicle seat tubing having variable wall thickness
Tubular bodies for use in frames for seats of vehicles such as aircraft are described. A tube can include a sidewall that has a variable thickness along the length of the tube. The variable thickness of the sidewalls can result in the tube having a variable inner diameter along the length of the tube. The tube may also include a variable outer diameter.
US08974000B2 Motorized articulation for vehicle seat
A vehicle seat articulation mechanism comprising a first member intended to be connected to the seat part, a second member intended to be connected to the backrest, about an axis of articulation, reduction gearing arranged between an input member and the second member, a piezoelectric motor having a rotor connected to the reduction gearing to drive the rotation of the second member with respect to the first member through the reduction gearing, in which the reduction ratio of the reduction gearing is greater than or equal to 150, and in which the nominal rotational speed of the piezoelectric motor is less than 500 revolutions/min. Seat comprising such a mechanism.
US08973999B2 Reclining vehicle seat with actuator and motor
A reclining seat for a vehicle includes a seat and a seat back pivotally coupled to the seat. The reclining seat also includes an actuator for adjusting the inclination of the seat back relative to the seat. The actuator includes a lockable reclining mechanism, a motor for selectively unlocking the reclining mechanism and permitting manual adjustment of the inclination of the seat back, and an actuator switch electrically coupled to the motor for selectively energizing the motor.
US08973998B2 Vehicle seat, in particular motor vehicle seat
A vehicle seat, in particular motor vehicle seat, comprises at least one fitting which has two fitting parts rotatable relative to one another, and which defines an axis. At least one structural part has at least one first opening having a first diameter for partially accommodating the fitting, and at least one fastening region surrounding the first opening for fastening the fitting. The fastening region is reinforced relative to the other regions of the structural part by an additional part which has a second opening having a second diameter. The additional part is fixedly connected to the structural part, and the fitting is fixedly connected to the additional part and is at least partially inserted into the second opening.
US08973984B1 Openable vehicle roof
An openable vehicle roof is proposed, comprising a roof element, which is slidable in the vehicle longitudinal direction and extends in the roof transverse direction, and which is adjacent to a stationary vehicle portion in its closed position, as well as one guide rail respectively on both sides relative to a vertical longitudinal center plane of the roof, an actuating device for the roof element being guided in said guide rail, by means of which actuating device the roof element can be moved in the roof longitudinal direction and which actuating device includes a driven locking hook, the pivoting of which causes a vertical offset of the roof element with respect to the stationary vehicle portion between the closed position and an open position and which is engaged with a locking element in the closed position, wherein the roof element is pivotably mounted at a main slider via two support links and the roof element is displaced between the closed position and the open position by means of a coupling link, which is articulated to the locking hook.
US08973977B2 Shroud element
A shroud element, for example for the engine compartment in the rear region of the vehicle, has a lower support and a thin-walled upper cover. The cover is locally recessed in the longitudinal direction, and rubber strips are provided between the cover and the support in the region of the recesses. The rubber strips also serve as luggage stopping strips and for sound absorption. The support has U-shaped longitudinal grooves locally in formations so that different thermal expansions between the support and the cover can be compensated for.
US08973973B2 Modular trailer skirt
A trailer skirt includes a plurality of panel modules attached under and along sides of a trailer. Each panel module comprises an outwardly angled flat panel with upper edge attached to a trailer undercarriage frame and a forward edge tabbed to slots in an inward-stepped rear edge of an adjacent identical panel module. The stair-stepped surface and leak-free connection provides excellent low air drag, and also provides good orientation of reflectors for lights when passing another vehicle. A modularity of the panel modules and their low weight allows them to be molded in an efficient and low cost manufacturing operation, shipped in a very compact and dense arrangement, quickly installed, and allows individual panel modules to be replaced without total disassembly of the skirt.
US08973970B2 Composite soft top assembly for SUV, both 2 and 4 door
A composite soft top assembly having a convertible roof portion that provides an open air feel with a soft, flexible outer layer. The composite soft top assembly further includes soft sides with hard glass or hard polymer materials connected to a frame, which is connected to the soft sides of the assembly. Additionally, the rear window has a removable horseshoe frame structure about which the hard rear window is connected with hinges to allow for the rear window to pivot about at least one hinge between an open and closed position. Additionally, the rear window can have a wiper or electronic wire mounts for a center high mount stop lamp. Additionally, the horseshoe frame structure allows for the connection of other electrical components such as a rear defrost system.
US08973968B2 Windshield wiper module
A wiper module assembly (14) for a vehicle liftgate (10) having an inner panel (15) with a spoiler (11) formed as a one-piece part of the inner panel (15). An outer panel (17) of the liftgate (10) is connected to the inner panel (15) to form an exterior surface of the liftgate (10). A cavity (12) is formed in part of the spoiler (11) and receives a carrier (28) forming a removable module connected to the cavity (12) of the vehicle liftgate (10). The carrier (28) includes a wiper (24), motor (18) and drive assembly (20) for operating a wiper (24) for a window (26) on the liftgate (10).
US08973967B2 Vehicle seat, motor vehicle and method for spring-mounting a vehicle seat
A vehicle seat having a seat surface, a backrest and a suspension device. The suspension device may comprise at least one upper part on a seat surface side, a lower part on the body side, suspension mechanisms and damping mechanisms. At least the scissor-type frame is positioned between the upper part on the seat surface and the lower part on a vehicle body. The vehicle seat may comprise a tilting mechanism which can be actuated by a vertical deflection of the suspension device for tilting the upper part on the seat surface side relative to the lower part on the body side.
US08973966B2 Seating arrangement for a passenger vehicle
A seating assembly for a vehicle includes a stepped floor that has an upper portion and a lower portion. A front seat is disposed on the lower portion. A rear seat is arranged in a staggered relationship behind the front seat. The front seat is mounted high and has an upright backrest and the rear seat has a backrest that is more reclined than the backrest of the front seat.
US08973964B2 Connector for an animal fence
A connector for use with an animal barrier. The connector includes a locking member configured to lock corresponding horizontal and vertical members when the locking member is in the locked position, and release the corresponding horizontal and vertical members to allow for length adjustment of both the horizontal and vertical members when the s is in the release position. Therefore, separate s are not needed for the corresponding horizontal and vertical members. Thus, the connector simplifies adjustment of the animal barrier to allow the animal barrier to be easily adapted to the specific size of the vehicle.
US08973963B2 Ambulance cot and loading and unloading system
An ambulance cot and cot loading and unloading system for an emergency vehicle comprises a cot having a head end, a base for mounting to a deck of an emergency vehicle, a track mounted for linear movement along said base, and an arm mounted for linear movement along said track from a retracted position to an extended position. The arm is and configured to engage the cot, and wherein when the track is extended along the base and the arm is extended along the track the arm is extended from the base in an extended position and is configured for lifting the cot and providing cantilevered support to the cot while in the extended position.
US08973952B2 Connector
A connector includes a housing having a connecting portion, an insertion portion, and slits, and a retainer having arms, and engaging portions. The engaging portions are engaged with a flange portion of a first pipe member so as to retain the first pipe member. An inclinatory contact portion is provided between inner circumferential surfaces of the slits and outer surfaces of the, such that the pair of arms are urged in directions of approaching each other when a force to pull out the first pipe member from the insertion portion is exerted.
US08973945B2 Retention harness
A retention harness for restraining a user within a vehicle. The harness includes a waist strap, a waist strap buckle assembly, two over the shoulder straps, a rear connector, and a forward connector. The waist strap is attachable to the waist strap buckle assembly. Each over the shoulder strap is attached to the waist strap buckle assembly. The two over the shoulder straps form an X on a user's back via a shoulder strap crossover plate, while each over the shoulder strap is adjustable via an adjustment slider. The rear connector is attached to the waist strap, and is attachable to retention hardware. The retention hardware is attachable to a bar attached to the vehicle. The forward connector is attached to the waist strap buckle assembly and attachable to forward retention hardware, the forward retention hardware attachable to the vehicle.
US08973943B1 Dolly adapter
A scissor fence having a top end, a bottom end, a plurality of alternating front legs and back legs, each leg having an outer section, a plurality of center pivots joining the front legs to the back legs, a mount comprising a final center pivot at the bottom end, wherein the mount is configured to affix to an existing dolly, a plurality of lateral pivots sequentially joining the outer sections of the front legs to the back legs, a hinge disposed on each leg, the hinges disposed most proximal the lateral pivots, a pair of spaced apart hooks affixed to the existing dolly, the scissor fence selectively expanded, the top end front leg and back leg removably hooked over the hooks, forming a barrier against the dolly, the scissor fence selectively collapsed and the outer sections folded to parallel the font legs and back legs.
US08973939B2 Adjustable seating frame and footrest assemblies
An adjustable seating frame assembly includes a side frame member, first and second joint members, a footrest hanger, a pivot fastener and a lock fastener. The first joint member is affixed to the side frame member and includes a first pivot aperture and at least one first lock aperture. The second joint member is affixed to the footrest hanger and includes a second pivot aperture and at least one second lock aperture. The pivot fastener is secured through the first and second pivot apertures to pivotally attach the second joint member to the first joint member. The lock fastener is secured through a selected one of the at least one first lock aperture and a selected one of the at least one second lock aperture to secure the second joint member in a selected one of a plurality of angular positions with respect to the first joint member.
US08973938B2 Universal foot tray for wheelchairs
A universal tray apparatus includes a tray and mounting components. The mounting components preferably include at least one arm that connects to the tray, as well as at least one mounting portion that can be reversibly fastened to an existing portion of a wheelchair. One or more of the arms between the tray and the mounting portion is preferably made such that it can retract and extend, depending upon where the person using the tray apparatus prefers the tray to be in relation to the wheelchair.
US08973937B2 Shock absorber with compliant members
The present invention provides a shock absorber with compliant members. Shock absorption is provided by the bending and rebound of curved, flexible arms. The deflection and the damping capabilities of the shock absorber are determined by the dimensions, curvature, and material modulus of elasticity of these compliant members. The shock absorber with compliant members technology may be applied to a bicycle front fork shock absorber and a rear shock absorber, both described herein. The benefits of a shock absorber with compliant members are that it is light-weight, it is simple in design, it has few movable joints, it can be designed to have precise flexion and damping characteristics, and it is resilient in harsh conditions.
US08973936B1 Rehabilitation device
A rehabilitation device includes a wheeled platform with first and second pedals, the first and second pedals engaging drive mechanisms for first and second rear wheels of the device, respectively. First and second braking mechanisms provide independent braking of the first and second rear wheels of the device. The independent braking mechanisms of the rehabilitation device provide a method of steering the device.
US08973935B2 One-piece vehicle
The invention relates to a vehicle (1) including a user seat comprising a backrest (3), a seat portion (4) and lateral edges (5) provided on both sides of the seat portion. The vehicle has a reduced production cost and a structure that facilitates the adaptation thereof to a plurality of activities, in particular owing to the fact that the seat, which is made from plastic, is produced in the form of a single piece, the lateral edges (5) being extended downwards such as to form two rear conduits intended to receive at least one rear movement member (26, 27, 28). The invention also relates to a vehicle production method in which rotational molding is used to form an ergonomic seat.
US08973929B1 Caster active geometry control system
A caster active control system that is mounted on a suspension including a strut assembly for automatically adjusting a cater angle of a wheel of a vehicle, may include a fixed frame that is fixed to a vehicle body, a movable frame slidably mounted on a bottom of the fixed frame and configured to reciprocate in a front-rear direction of the wheel, a strut mount unit fixed to the movable frame and connected with an upper end of the strut assembly, and an operation module disposed between the fixed frame and the movable frame and engaged with the movable frame, wherein the operation module is driven by a motor to move the movable frame in the front-rear direction of the wheel.
US08973928B2 Baby carriage and accommodating mechanism thereof
A baby carriage includes a frame and an accommodating mechanism. The accommodating mechanism is disposed on the frame and used for accommodating a mobile device. The accommodating mechanism includes a base and a clamping member. The clamping member is movably disposed on the base and used for clamping the mobile device on the base. This invention also discloses an accommodating mechanism having two crossing recesses for accommodating the mobile device in different orientations.
US08973924B2 Device for adjusting the position of the boot support holder in a ski fastening system
The present invention relates to a device for adjusting the vertical position of the boot support holder (P) for a ski fastening system comprising a base (E) and a plate (Cr) forming a cover, said support holder comprising a vertically movable support element (1) and at least one ramp (11) cooperating by contact with a wedge (2) that can move in longitudinal translation under the action of a maneuvering member (3), characterized in that said maneuvering member (3) can rotate relative to the base while being connected to said wedge (2), which bears a push-piece (21) forming a lever designed to come into bearing contact against said ramp to modify the vertical position of the support element (3) by pivoting.
US08973923B2 Truck assembly
A truck assembly having a mounting plate with a first mounting bracket with a first arm, a second arm and a ridge; a cushion with a front surface that defines a concave segment, a rear surface that defines a notch that receives and seats the ridge, and a first lateral surface and a second lateral surface; an axle assembly having a wheel shaft and a truck support with a first cushion support arm and a second cushion support arm; and a swing pin releasably joining the cushion and the axle assembly to the first mounting bracket.
US08973920B2 Conveying apparatus and recording apparatus
A conveying apparatus including a conveying path with a curved path through which a sheet is passed, a main conveying roller provided downstream of the conveying path in a conveying direction of the sheet, the roller being rotated in a first direction to perform a conveying operation of conveying the sheet in the conveying direction and being rotated in a second direction opposite to the first direction to perform an skew correcting operation of forming a loop of the sheet, and an auxiliary guide member which supports the sheet using an inner side of a curvature of the conveying path and which is tilted toward the conveying direction side during the conveying operation when subjected to a force of the sheet which is stronger than during the skew correcting operation.
US08973914B2 Sheet-supply device with a sheet-separation unit having an opening
A sheet-supply cassette includes a main member open upward and adapted to store a plurality of recording sheets stacked on each other, each of which is separated from the other recording sheets, and is fed in a sheet-feed direction, by a sheet feeder, an inclined sheet-separate plate provided in a downstream-side portion of the main member as seen in the sheet-feed direction, and which cooperates with the sheet feeder to separate the each recording sheet from the other recording sheets, and a plurality of back-surface support portions which are formed integrally with the downstream-side portion of the main member, such that the back-surface support portions are distant from each other in a perpendicular direction substantially perpendicular to the sheet-feed direction. The inclined sheet-separate plate is detachably attached to the back-surface support portions such that a back surface of the inclined sheet-separate plate is supported by the back-surface support portions.
US08973913B2 Media conveyance device and printer
To easily replace a retard roller (that is a media separation roller) while minimizing the required installation space, a printer 1 has a first media conveyance path 12 that conveys sheet media; a second media conveyance path 29 that conveys media and can open and close; a media conveyance roller 17 and a retard roller 16 disposed opposite each other with the first media conveyance path 12 therebetween; and a roller installation unit 70 to which the retard roller 16 is installed removably from the second media conveyance path 29 side. The retard roller 16 can be easily replaced from the open second media conveyance path 29. Compared with a configuration having a dedicated opening, a smaller opening and space for replacing the media separation roller are required.
US08973909B2 Cross arm bushing assembly useful for vehicle suspension
A cross arm bushing assembly for use in a vehicle suspension is provided having a bushing with an outer surface adapted for rotation with respect to an end of a control arm, a cross arm assembly positioned within the bushing that includes a cross arm having a first end and a second end, and a front side and a back side, the first end of the cross arm having a first opening for receiving a first connecting rod, and the second end of the cross arm having a second opening for receiving a second connecting rod, a first connecting rod extending into the first opening of the cross arm, and a second connecting rod extending into the second opening of the cross arm.
US08973904B2 Fence assembly
A fence assembly is provided having a plurality of posts, a plurality of elongated rails, with each rail having a hollow interior and a front face including an elongated channel extending into the hollow interior, a plurality of fence slats, and a plurality of brackets, with each bracket formed to retain at least one fence slat. The brackets include engagement ends positioned on an extension member formed on the bracket body. The engagement ends are inserted into the channel and the interior hollow of the rails to secure the brackets to the rails. The brackets are secured to the rail and create a retaining slot for receiving at least one fence slat and to support the fence slat on the rail. The rail is attached to one or more posts to form, along with the plurality of brackets and fence slats, a fencing section.
US08973903B2 Bendable pole for wire-rope safety fences
Bendable wire pole (1) intended to fixate the wires in a wire-rope safety fence, comprising at least two curved elongated pole sections (2) connected to each other so that at least an intermediate cavity (4) is formed between the sections (2), whose sections (2) are held together by at least one cohesive body (12). The unique feature of the present bendable wire pole (1) is that it includes at least one intermediate elongated pole section (3) positioned between the curved sections (2), whose sections (2) and (3) in their upper are provided with at least one groove (5) in which wires are designed to be inserted. The pole (1) further comprises at least one spacer unit (6), intended to be connected to the wires and the pole (1), with which the wires are positioned in the vertical and horizontal directions relative to the pole (1).
US08973898B2 Portable and foldable lift
A portable and foldable lift can be attached to a surface such as a tailgate of a truck. The lift can be slid off the gate and used to lift heavy objects from the ground to the bed of the truck. The portable and foldable lift is returned in a folded position to the tailgate for easy storage. The portable and foldable lift can also be attached to a work bench, either on top or underneath, and can be folded up and stored out of the way.
US08973893B2 Method and device for determining the actual start of injection of a piezo fuel injection valve
A method for determining the actual start of injection is performed by an actuating device for a piezo fuel injection valve and includes the following steps. First, a test injection is carried out with such a short actuation duration that a start of shut-off takes place at a time so early that the nozzle needle does not reach the open end position. Said time is predefined by the actuation and is therefore precisely known. Next, the closing time of the nozzle needle is then determined by measurement and evaluation of an electrical variable of the piezo direct drive. Once the closing time and the time of the start of shut-off are known, the actual start of injection is calculated back from the closing time via the start of shut-off. This permits an adequately precise determination of the actual injection quantity in almost every operating state of the internal combustion engine.
US08973892B2 Locking mechanism for valve device
A locking mechanism for a valve device, which includes a valve body for opening and closing a fluid path, for retaining the valve body at a predetermined opening position, the valve device further including a gear wheel to which rotational driving force of a rotational driving source is transmitted and a rack section having rack teeth provided thereon for meshing engagement with the gear wheel and configured to convert rotational movement of the gear wheel into linear movement and move together with the valve body. The locking mechanism for a valve device includes: a ball abuttable with a wall face of the rack section; and a spring member configured to press the ball toward the wall face; the valve body being retained by frictional force generated when the ball is pressed against the wall face of the rack section.
US08973890B2 Fluid-operated actuating drive on a valve
A fluid-operated actuating drive on a valve comprising a base unit (2) having an electro-fluidic signal converter and a fluidic controller and at least one linear actuator (4) that can be actuated using the fluidic controller, wherein the gate (11) of the linear actuator is directly or indirectly coupled to the inlet of the valve. A control unit (22) is connected to a signal input of the base unit, wherein the signal output is connected to the electro-fluidic signal converter. The actual value signal of a measurement transducer (24) associated to the valve is fed back to the control unit. A fluidic internal control circuit (27) is arranged functionally between the signal input and the at least one linear actuator, preferably downstream of the electro-fluidic signal converter.
US08973885B2 Structural rod incorporating a vibration filtration mode
A structural rod has a primary rod that has an axial cavity and a secondary rod inside the axial cavity so that the secondary rod is able to move inside the axial cavity along the direction of the longitudinal axis of the rod. The primary rod has a bearing for fastening the structural rod at the first end in a rigid manner and is not fastened rigidly to the structure at the second end. Conversely, the secondary rod has a bearing for fastening the structural rod at the second end in a rigid manner and is not fastened rigidly to the structure at the first end. The primary and secondary rods are joined through one or more intermediate linkage elements made of a deformable and elastic material.
US08973883B2 Fastening apparatus for a battery in a motor vehicle, and motor vehicle having a fastening apparatus of this type
A fastening apparatus (1) for a battery (2) in a motor vehicle (29) has a carrier device (31) for carrying the battery (2). A clamping strap (10) encloses the battery (2) at least in sections and has opposite first and second end sections (11; 12). The first end section (11) is fastened to the carrier device (31). A clamping arrangement (17) is coupled to the second end section (12) of the clamping strap (10) and connects to the carrier device (31). An actuator (26) of the clamping arrangement (17) sets a prestress in the clamping strap (10).
US08973881B2 Modular support assembly
A modular support assembly is provided for supporting a useful and/or decorative article. Each module of the assembly adheres to adjacent module(s) via a magnetic force attraction. The height of the modular assembly can be adjusted, as desired, by the addition/removal of various modules to/from the assembly.
US08973879B2 Clamp and electronic device accommodating unit
A clamp includes a base portion, a clamping portion and an urging member. The base portion is connected to a housing accommodating a device. The clamping portion is provided on a first face of the base portion, and clamps a mating member. The urging portion is provided on a second face of the base portion. The urging portion has elasticity, and urges the device in a case where the base portion is connected to the housing.
US08973877B2 Sucker with optimum suction attachment effect
A sucker includes a sucker body having a rough suction layer which includes a plurality of protrusions which are juxtaposed to each other closely, and a plurality of grooves defined between the protrusions. When the rough suction layer presses an attached face and is disposed at a negative pressure state, the sucker body is pressed toward the attached face by a normal force from the ambient air, so that the rough suction layer is compressed, and the grooves form multiple independent negative pressure or vacuum zones, to increase a negative pressure of the rough suction layer, to decrease air existing in the rough suction layer, and to reduce a vacuum leak in the rough suction layer, so as to increase an air-tightness between the rough suction layer and the attached face.
US08973870B2 Wall component for an aircraft
The present disclosure relates to a wall component for an aircraft for forming an outer wall comprising at least one first wall element, at least one second wall element and at least one connecting device for connecting the first wall element to the second wall element. On wall regions that are to be directed towards each other, the first and the second wall element comprise connecting regions. Furthermore, a joint element is provided, which comprises a joint region with a joint region surface that is to be arranged towards the outside of the aircraft, wherein the joint region is designed to be received with a matching fit into a recess formed by the connecting regions of the wall elements, and wherein the joint region surface, when the joint element is inserted, is flush with the outer surfaces of the wall elements.
US08973869B2 Landing gear retraction/extension device of aircraft
A landing gear retraction/extension device includes a hydraulic actuator, a hydraulic circuit, a hydraulic pump, an electric motor, and a driver. Part of the hydraulic circuit is provided such that heat is exchangeable between operation oil and each of the electric motor and the driver. The driver supplies power to the electric motor before landing of an aircraft such that an operation oil temperature is higher than a predetermined temperature upon the landing of the aircraft.
US08973867B2 Fresh air inlet for an aircraft
A fresh air inlet for an aircraft features a ram air inlet with a ram air inlet opening, a secondary air inlet opening separate from the ram air inlet and a movably mounted flap. The flap can be moved into a first or second position, and essentially covers the secondary air inlet opening in the first position and at least partially opens the secondary air inlet opening and extends away from the aircraft body in the second position to shield the ram air inlet opening from foreign matter in the air. The secondary air inlet reduces the pressure loss of the air inlet on the ground or during flight phases with relatively slow speed due to the enlarged cross-sectional surface. The ram air inlet can be optimized for cruising phases, and the energy expenditure for any downstream compressors and flow-induced noises can be considerably reduced.
US08973862B2 Rotocraft
An aerial vehicle includes independently controlled horizontal thrusters and vertical lifters to provide design and operational simplicity while allowing precision flying with six degrees of freedom and use of mounted devices such as tools, sensors, and instruments. Each horizontal thruster and vertical lifter can be mounted as constant-pitch, fixed-axis rotors while still allowing for precise control of yaw, pitch, roll, horizontal movement, and vertical elevation. Gyroscopes and inclinometers can be used to further enhance flying precision. A controller manages thrust applied the horizontal thrusters and vertical lifters to compensate for forces and torques generated by the use of tools and other devices mounted to the aerial vehicle.
US08973859B2 Thread guide for sewing and embroidery machines
A thread guide device for use with sewing and embroidering machines is adjustable to accommodate a variety of differently dimensioned thread spools or cones and is adapted for use with machines having a horizontally disposed thread spool support rod. The thread guide device includes a base having a support rod for supporting a spool or cone of thread on a rotor journalled for rotation on the support rod and dimensioned for insertion into the core of a spool or cone of thread. The rotor has a tapered end portion for accommodating spools or cones of different sizes. A wire loop thread guide secured to the base and mounted for selective lateral adjustment relative to the support rod has a first portion disposed within a slot of a slotted arm and a second portion provided with a coil wrapped around the slotted arm. A set screw secures a tapered retaining cap having a central axial aperture receiving the support rod to the support rod. A free floating thread retaining ring placed over an upper portion of a core of a thread spool or cone, allowing thread to be fed between the retaining ring and the core. A support ball mounted in an adjusted position along on the support rod by a set screw limits off-center movement of a thread spool or cone. The thread guide may be mounted on a ball having a cylindrical aperture slidably receiving the adjustment rod therethrough, such that the thread guide is selectively and independently adjustable in two perpendicular linear directions and also mounted for selective and independent adjustment around a first axis of rotation and a second perpendicular axis of rotation.
US08973858B2 Web rewinding apparatus
A web rewinding apparatus comprising a turret winder and a cupping assembly is disclosed. The turret winder has a rotatably driven turret supporting a plurality of rotatably driven mandrels capable of engaging cores upon which a web material is convolutely wound thereabout. The cupping assembly has a plurality of cupping arms each cooperatively associated with one of the plurality of mandrels and having a mandrel cup for releaseably engaging the unsupported ends of the cooperatively associated mandrel. The rewinding apparatus also provides a first actuator for disposing the cupping arm from the hold-open position to the hold-closed position. Each of the cupping arms is disposed radially about the cupping arm turret and is carried in a radial orbital path about the cupping arm turret central axis while disposed in either of a hold-open position or a hold-closed position.
US08973851B2 Apparatus and methods for producing charged fluid droplets
Disclosed herein is the apparatus that produces very small or nano-sized, charged droplets and the methods for producing such charged fluid droplets. This apparatus avoids the problems known to exist with using spray nozzles having very small orifices to produce such small fluid droplets, those problems including clogging of the nozzles.
US08973850B2 Rotary spray device and method of spraying coating product using such a rotary spray device
A rotary device for spraying a coating product is provided. The rotary device includes a spray member having an edge and able to form a jet of coating product, a device for driving the rotation of the spray member and a body which is fixed. The body that is fixed includes primary orifices arranged on a primary outline surrounding the axis of rotation and intended to eject a primary air jet in a primary direction and secondary orifices arranged on a secondary outline surrounding the axis of rotation and intended to eject a secondary air jet in a secondary direction. The respective orientations and positions of each primary direction and of each secondary direction cause combined jets to be formed, each resulting from the intersection between a primary air jet and a secondary air jet that are associated with one another, the region of intersection lying upstream of the edge.
US08973847B2 Non-aerosol liquid spray device with continuous spray
Aerosol-free spray devices are provided. According to some embodiments, a spray device includes a piston operable within a piston chamber and coupled to a vacuum plunger operable within a vacuum chamber. A charger is operable to move the piston and the vacuum plunger in a first direction to generate a vacuum in the piston chamber and the vacuum chamber, thereby drawing liquid into the piston chamber. The vacuum in the vacuum chamber acts on the piston to pressurize the liquid in the piston chamber. A spray actuator is operable to open a spray valve, thereby causing the vacuum in the vacuum chamber to force the plunger and the piston to move opposite the first direction, and forcing the liquid in the piston chamber through a spray nozzle as a liquid spray. According to other embodiments, a spring replaces the vacuum chamber and vacuum plunger.
US08973845B2 Air conditioning apparatus with a controller that utilizes two set temperature ranges
An air-conditioning apparatus includes a temperature sensor for detecting a heat exchanger temperature or an inlet air temperature, a controller that performs variable control of the direction of the indoor unit air blow vane or the air flow speed or rate of the blower fan, and a remote controller that remote-controls indoor unit operation, wherein temperatures set via the remote controller are divided into two set temperature ranges and during heating operation the controller sets at least the air blow vane to a horizontal or downward direction on the basis of the two set temperature ranges and the heat exchanger temperature or the inlet air temperature.
US08973844B2 Information exchange using photo camera as display for color space encoded image
Embodiments of the present invention include systems, methods, and non-transitory computer program products for information exchange using color space encoded images. A color space encoded image can be displayed, for example on media such as posters, billboards, or paper, or on a display of a first device such as smartphone displays, palmtop displays, camera displays, tablet displays, or e-reader displays. A second device can acquire the displayed encoded image, for example by photographing the image. The second device can decode the color space encoded image or transfer the color space encoded image to a device that decodes the image.
US08973839B2 Wireless tag
A wireless tag includes: an antenna; an integrated circuit configured to be electrically connected to the antenna; a package configured to integrally subject the antenna and the integrated circuit to packaging; and a boundary portion configured to be located between a first portion including the integrated circuit in the package and a second portion not including the integrated circuit, wherein the boundary portion is configured so as to be more easily torn apart than a portion other than the boundary portion in the package.
US08973833B2 RFID tag substrate for metal component
An RFID tag substrate on which an RFID tag that performs wireless communication with a reader/writer is disposed includes a substrate layer, and a functional layer laminated or stacked on the substrate layer. The functional layer includes a plurality of layers laminated together including a high-dielectric-constant layer having a predetermined dielectric constant, and a high-permeability layer having a predetermined permeability. A product of the predetermined dielectric constant and the predetermined permeability is not smaller than 250.
US08973831B1 Standoff RFID elements
A standoff RFID element includes a generally planar, hollow, standoff member with a pair of major outer walls connected by a plurality of structural components like ribs and at least a first piece of flexible, planar, non-conductive polymer substrate having one major side bonded with a major side of the standoff member. An RFID inlay is encapsulated between the hollow member and the piece of polymer substrate. The hollow member is formed from a non-conductive, non-porous, polymer material. The flexible substrate is non-conductive and substantially porous.
US08973819B2 Gift card splitting
Embodiments of the invention are directed to systems, methods and computer program products for splitting a gift card. An exemplary apparatus is configured to: receive information associated with a gift card, the gift card being associated with a merchant; associate the gift card with an account; and enable selection of an option to split the gift card into a first portion (e.g., a first new gift card) and a second portion (e.g., a second new gift card).
US08973818B2 Processing transactions of different payment devices of the same issuer account
Each portable payment device associated with a single account within a payment processing system is distinguished using track data. The track data from the portable payment device is read at each of a plurality of merchant point of sale terminals (POS). Rather than relying on the PAN alone, a merchant may utilizes the track data, or a proxy thereof, as the unique identifier for the portable payment device. The merchant may then process transactions involving the portable payment device based on the unique identifier. For example, in the transit environment the transit fare for each rider with different portable payment devices but the same account can be calculated using the unique identifier, such as the full track data read from both tracks of the corresponding portable payment devices.
US08973817B1 Apparatus, method, and system for loading currency bills into a currency processing device
An apparatus for feeding a plurality of stacked currency bills into a currency handling device. The apparatus may comprise an input receptacle being configured to receive a plurality of stacked currency bills, the receptacle having a first side and a second opposing side, a front end, and an opposing back end. The apparatus further may comprise a first paddle rail disposed adjacent the first side and a first paddle assembly slidably coupled to the first paddle rail, the first paddle assembly having a portion configured to contact a stack of a plurality of bills residing in the input receptacle. The apparatus further may comprise a first resilient member coupled to the first paddle assembly, the first resilient member being configured to bias the first paddle assembly towards the front end of the receptacle, the first resilient member being configured to cause the first paddle assembly to move in a direction toward the front end of the input receptacle at a first average rate of speed when unrestrained and undamped. The apparatus further may comprise a first damping mechanism configured to slow the unrestrained, average rate of speed the first paddle assembly from the first average rate of speed to a second average rate of speed which is less the first average rate of speed.
US08973815B2 One touch data collection apparatus
A data collection apparatus and unit are provided. The apparatus includes a probe configured to measure one or more operating conditions of a machine, and a tag reader configured to receive a tag identifier transmitted by a tag positioned proximal to the machine. The apparatus also includes one or more processors configured to communicate with the probe and the tag reader, and a memory system including one or more computer-readable media storing instructions that, when executed by the one or more processors, are configured to cause the apparatus to perform operations. The operations include determining that the apparatus is physically proximal to the machine, and reading a tag identifier from the tag of the machine. The operations also include storing a measurement received from the probe, and associating the measurement with the tag identifier.
US08973813B2 System for facilitating return of lost property
Systems and related methods for facilitating the return of lost, stolen or otherwise missing portable assets. Generally, a barcode or similar coding is generated and tagged to a specific portable asset such as, for example, an electronic device such as a smart phone or laptop computer or a piece of luggage such as a briefcase, purse, backpack or the like. A tag on the portable asset visually displays the barcode such that in the event the property is lost, a finder of the property can snap a picture of barcode with their smart device and automatically be directed to a webpage containing information that facilitates the return of the portable asset. When tagging the portable asset, an owner of the portable asset can control privacy levels with respect to information that ultimately becomes accessible to a subsequent finder of the portable asset.
US08973812B2 Cluster box mail delivery unit having security features
An apparatus and method for enhancing the security of a cluster box unit which includes a protective enclosure, internal cabinetry, door, hinge and locking system. The cluster box unit may also include outgoing mail compartment doors that are heavily constructed and rigidly reinforced, with the locks carried thereon protectively shielded, and with the extensible bolts of these locks being engaged by brackets that not only lock the outgoing mail compartment doors but also the master loading doors of the cluster box units. The cluster box unit may also include master loading doors are provided with hinges that extend the full height of the doors—hinges that are defined by pivotally interfitting elements of extrusions that very sturdily mount the master loading doors, that prevent prying or bending the doors in the vicinities of their hinges. The interfitting elements of the hinge extrusions also permit the doors to be installed on their surrounding door frames quickly and easily, and permit one or both of the master loading doors to be quickly and easily removed for service or replacement when necessary.
US08973811B2 Shipping and display container
A container is provided including a blank of sheet material having an interior surface and an opposing exterior surface. The blank forms the container having a front wall, a bottom wall, a back wall, a top wall, a first side wall and an opposing second side wall, the container defining a cavity, and at least the front wall defining a display area for facilitating displaying product contained within container.
US08973808B2 Method for making a cellular seal
A method for making a cellular seal member for a turbine is disclosed. The method includes, in sequence, forming a diffusion aluminide coating on a surface of a cellular seal to form a coated cellular seal. The method also includes brazing the coated cellular seal to a seal substrate.
US08973806B2 Fine grained Ni-based alloys for resistance to stress corrosion cracking and methods for their design
A class of nickel based alloys having a fine grain structure resistant to stress corrosion cracking, and methods of alloy design to produce further alloys within the class are presented. The alloys act as suitable welding materials in similar applications to that of Alloy 622. The fine-grained structure of these novel alloys may also be advantageous for other reasons as well such as wear, impact, abrasion, corrosion, etc. These alloys have similar phases to Alloy 622 in that they are composed primarily of austenitic nickel, however the phase morphology is a much finer grained structure opposed to the long dendritic grains common to Alloy 622 when it is subject to cooling rates from a liquid state inherent to the welding process.
US08973801B2 Roll or buffer storage for a flat web material
A buffer store for a flat web material includes two roller registers having freely rotatable rollers movable relative to one another in a direction radial to a roller axis, thereby forming loops of the web material between the rollers, a piston-cylinder arrangement having a chamber containing a compressible medium and acting as a spring between the registers to generate web tension in the material, and a control-valve arrangement that switches between a first condition, for normal operation, and a second condition, for operation during a fault. In the first condition, the control-valve arrangement connects the cylinder chamber of the piston-cylinder arrangement to a device for providing a constant operating pressure. In the second condition, the control-valve arrangement closes the cylinder chamber of the piston-cylinder arrangement and connects it to a relief valve that relieves pressure therein to a residual pressure significantly smaller than the operating pressure.
US08973800B2 Ampoule opener
An ampoule opener has an opening unit and a cover unit. The opening unit is a rigid frame and has two panels, two head-clamping holes and two pairs of wave-shaped flanges. The panels are respectively an upper panel and a lower panel. The head-clamping holes are elongated in length and tapered in width and are respectively formed through the panels. The pairs of wave-shaped flanges are formed between the panels and the head-clamping holes. The cover unit is flexible, is detachably mounted around the opening unit and has two covering boards, a mounting recess, two body-clamping holes and two pairs of wave-shaped edges. The body-clamping holes are elongated in length and tapered in width and are respectively formed through the mounting boards and communicate with the mounting recess. The pairs of wave-shaped edges are formed between the mounting boards and the body-clamping holes.
US08973796B1 Serving tray apparatus
A serving tray apparatus comprising a container support portion and a hand/forearm engaging portion incorporating a mechanism for releasably attaching the container support portion to the hand/forearm engaging portion.
US08973793B2 Infant support garment
The present invention relates generally to infant support garments configured for supporting and maintaining an infant against a wearer of the garment. In one exemplary embodiment, the garment provides a first pocket suitable for placement and securing of an infant. The garment further provides a second pocket that is adjustable to provide further securing and support of the infant. In one particular exemplary embodiment, the garment further provides a third pocket for added securing and support.
US08973786B2 Beverage dispenser with on-demand refrigeration
A beverage dispenser provides numerous inventive features in its refrigeration system, diluent delivery system, concentrate delivery system, mixing and dispensing system, and control system. The refrigeration system employs a plate heat exchanger to provide on demand refrigeration of an intermittent water flow. The diluent delivery system includes a flowmeter/solenoid/check-valve assembly. The concentrate delivery system employs a positive displacement pump. The mixing and dispensing system includes a mixing nozzle that has a locking feature such that an elevated blocking surface directly faces the inlet of pressurized diluent to create turbulence. The control system receives package-specific information from a scanner and diluent flow rate information from the flowmeter, and then determines the pump speed in order to set a desired mix ratio.
US08973785B2 Systems and methods for priming or purging a product dispenser
Embodiments of the invention include systems and methods for priming or purging a product dispenser. In one embodiment, a product dispenser can include a plurality of beverage ingredient sources comprising a respective beverage ingredient; a plurality of beverage supply lines in respective communication with the plurality of ingredient sources; at least one pump in communication with the plurality of beverage supply lines; and a controller in communication with the at least one pump and operable to execute a set of instructions operable to: receive a command to prime or purge the product dispenser; and activate the at least one pump, wherein a predefined amount of the respective beverage ingredients is simultaneously introduced into each of the plurality of beverage supply lines.
US08973783B2 Label dispenser
A label dispenser having a body and a hinged lid attached thereto. The lid is held in a closed position by way of magnets. The interior of the body has guides that hold label packs in a vertical arrangement. The labels and liner are passed between the body of the dispenser and the lid.
US08973781B2 Container stopper comprising foam-molded article
Provided is a container stopper containing a foam-molded article which has an expansion ratio of 1.1 to 2.5 times and is obtained by foaming a mixture containing: a thermoplastic elastomer composition containing 100 parts by mass of (a) a hydrogenated block copolymer containing (A) a polymer block containing a structural unit derived from an aromatic vinyl compound and (B) a polymer block containing a structural unit derived from isoprene or a mixture of isoprene and butadiene, 5 to 150 parts by mass of (b) a softening agent, and from 5 to 150 parts by mass of (c) a polyolefin resin; and (d) 0.1 to 3% by mass of a foaming agent.
US08973779B2 Drum
Drums of thermoplastic synthetic material include a circumferentially extending carrying and transport ring arranged on the drum wall in the vicinity of the upper bottom, and at least one bunghole connection sleeve arranged in a trough-shaped indentation of the upper head of the drum in the area of the rim thereof. An integrally formed stiffening bead is arranged on the inner side of the carrying and transport ring of a drum of the above-described type in the vicinity of a bunghole connection sleeve. A stiffening hump is formed in the upper head of the drum between the stiffening bead of the carrying and transport ring and the bunghole connection sleeves.
US08973776B1 Cup with nestable food container and cover
A cup with nestable food container and cover includes at least one wall that defines at least one container body and a plurality of downward oriented cavities. The cup includes a lower and upper cup body a portion of which defines a fill line that indicates a volume of beverage to fill the cup with. The upper cup body holds the food container, and the at least one container body may descend into the annular opening of the cup down to the fill line. Each of the plurality of downward oriented cavities include a bottom outer corner portion, such that at least one of the plurality of downward oriented cavities may rest on the portion that is wider in the upper cup body. The at least one container and at least one cover may include at least one cavity that may hold at least one independent drop-in container and cover.
US08973772B2 Pliable thermal container
Pliable thermal containers interchangeably serve for containing cold or hot items, and are manufactured in polyurethane or EVA foamed materials, are struck resistant, and maintain a structure that allows them to remain upright and resist certain loads. The containers solve durability issues, A foamed material is used, and comprises unicellular air bubbles that provide thermal isolation properties and at the same time, during molding, this material attaches to a plasticized textile inner coating located at a mold piston for forming an interference zone. The lid may be directly hinged to the cavity using a textile hinge submerged in the material or independent thereof, with the lid being capable of being locked with embedded fasteners. with The pliable thermal containers solve brittleness problems of current containers shaped monolithic containers, are also provided.
US08973771B2 Welded full contact floating roof
A sealed floating roof for a storage tank, comprising a frame and roof panels, in which the frame provides a guide for directing an automatic welder along said structure to allow for automated welding of the roof panels to the frame, and a method of forming such a roof.
US08973765B2 Merchandise security system
A merchandising system includes a mounting member adapted to be secured to a first associated merchandising structure. A tile is connected to the mounting member. The tile extends away from the mounting member so as to approach a second associated merchandising structure spaced from the first associated merchandising structure. The tile includes a first portion located in a first plane and a protrusion located in a second plane spaced from the first plane. The protrusion is linked to the mounting member. The tile is configured to be movable in relation to the mounting member thereby allowing selective access to a desired portion of at least one of the first and second associated merchandising structures. The connection between the protrusion and the mounting member enables movement of the tile in relation to the mounting member via at least one of pivoting and sliding.
US08973757B2 Accessory container and changing table
An accessory container for containing baby accessories and for changing a baby's diaper when in proximity to a door includes a container member having a bottom wall with rear, front, and side walls extending upwardly therefrom and defining an interior area. A divider panel is positioned in the interior area of the container member so as to divide the interior area into first and second chambers. The front wall is movable between a closed configuration preventing access to the second chamber and an open configuration allowing access to the second chamber. A length adjustable frame assembly is mounted in the second chamber and is selectively movable between a stowed configuration contained in the second chamber and a deployed configuration extending away from the second chamber. A covering is the frame assembly is configured to support a baby on the frame assembly.
US08973756B2 Corner sleeve with hammock-like cushioning structure
A corner sleeve with a hammock-like cushioning structure includes first and second air-column sides and a bottom air-column side. The inner surfaces of the first and second air-column sides are bonded together at a lateral end, except in the vicinity of the bottom air-column side, such that a deformable opening is formed at an end corner of the corner sleeve by the unbonded parts of the inner surfaces of the first and second air-column sides at the lateral end. The air columns of the three air-column sides that form the deformable opening define a cushioning side at the end corner of the corner sleeve. A hammock-like enclosing film extends between the first and second air-column sides without contact with the bottom air-column side. An end corner of an object to be packed can be wrapped between the first, second, and bottom air-column sides and the cushioning side for enhanced protection.
US08973752B2 Flash isolation for device covers
A cover for a camera device with a flash may incorporate a light absorbing isolation mechanism in areas near the flash and camera. In some cases, the isolation mechanism may be conformable to press against the camera device, or may come in partial contact or no contact with the device in the area of the flash and camera. The isolation mechanism may be formed as part of a cover, or may be a second component that may be added to a cover in various designs. The isolation mechanism may operate with devices that have a glass or other translucent outer case, as well as those devices without such an outer case.
US08973748B2 Medical device packaging and methods for preparing and packaging medical devices
Medical device packaging, medical device packaging assemblies, and methods for preparing and packaging medical devices. An example medical device packaging assembly may include a packaging pouch including a front pouch portion and a back pouch portion. The front pouch portion may include a first sheet of material having a plurality of layers. The back pouch portion may include a second sheet of material having a plurality of layers. A medical device may be disposed in the pouch. At least one of the plurality of layers of first sheet of material and the plurality of layers of second sheet of material may include a moisture scavenging layer. In addition, at least one of the plurality of layers of first sheet of material and the plurality of layers of second sheet of material may include a barrier layer that is configured to maintain the oxygen concentration within the packaging pouch.
US08973742B2 Chain tension sensor
A chain tension sensor for a chain conveyor, the conveyor including a frame and a chain having a plurality of flights. The tension sensor includes a reaction arm and a load sensing pin. The reaction arm includes a first end, a second end opposite the first end, and a load pad. The first end is pivotably coupled to the frame by a pivot pin defining a pivot axis. The load pad is adjacent the conveyor chain and positioned to contact flights passing the load pad. The flights contacting the load pad exert a force on the reaction in a direction that is perpendicular to the pivot axis. The load sensing pin is coupled to the reaction arm such that the load sensing pin senses the force that is exerted by the flights.
US08973739B2 Belt cleaner system and method
A snap-fit scraper blade is provided for being snap-fit onto a mounting pole. The scraper blade has a blade body including an upper scraping portion and a lower mounting portion. The lower mounting portion has depending legs with inner surfaces that are configured for snap-fitting the scraper blade body onto a square mounting pole.
US08973738B2 Cleaning device
A cleaning device for cleaning a conveyor system including a slotted track that defines an elongate path along which product is moved and that has opposed glide surfaces from which product is suspended. The conveyor system also includes a wall that is disposed above the track and that cooperates with the track to define a product passageway along the elongate path. The cleaning device includes a drive unit, a wheel rotatably coupled to the drive unit and engageable with the wall within the product passageway to move the drive unit along the slotted track, a glide coupled to the drive unit and engageable with the glide surfaces to support the drive unit on the slotted track, and a cleaning implement coupled to the drive unit to clean the track.
US08973734B2 Device for aligning and transferring articles
A device for aligning and transferring articles including: a counter 3 for aligning, at a gathering position P, an article set W composed of a predetermined number of uncompressed articles; a discharger 4 for discharging the article set W aligned at the gathering position P to a receiving position P0; and at least one transfer bed for supporting a bottom surface of the article set W and reciprocating between the receiving position P0 and a hand-over position P1, P2, thereby receiving the article set W at the receiving position P0, transferring the article set W to the hand-over position P1, P2, and returning to the receiving position P0. The transfer bed L1, R1 and the second support section 20 for compressing the article set W are driven by first and second motors, respectively.
US08973731B2 Regenerative power control for passenger conveyors
An exemplary device for controlling power associated with a passenger conveyor motor includes a regenerative drive that is configured to facilitate providing electricity generated by the motor to a power source when the passenger conveyor is moving. The controller determines when an operating condition of the regenerative drive is outside of a desired range and responsively prevents the regenerative drive from facilitating providing the electricity to the power source.
US08973728B1 Torque limiting apparatus and method
A torque limiting apparatus is provided having an input shaft, an output shaft, a housing, a spring, and a length adjustable shank and collar assembly. The input shaft communicates with a rotating end segment having a cam surface. The output shaft communicates with a rotating end segment having a complementary cam surface for engaging with the cam surface of the input shaft. The cam surfaces cooperate to generate separation forces between the respective rotating end segments. The spring is configured to oppose the separation forces generated by the cam surfaces, and is configured to urge together the first end segment and the second end segment to remain in rotating coupled engagement. The length adjustable shank and collar assembly is provided between the spring and the housing and is configured to adjust compressive force on the spring to change torque output of the apparatus. A method is also provided.
US08973727B1 Electromagnetic clutch
An electromagnetic clutch includes a first rotation transmission portion, annular field core, rotation stop member, second rotation transmission portion, armature, and spring member. The annular field core is supported by the first rotation transmission portion via a first bearing. The first bearing is housed in a hollow portion of the field core and fitted on an inner circumferential surface of the field core. The rotation stop member includes a flat portion which is fixed to an end of the field core on a side opposite to the armature. The flat portion is formed integrally with a retaining piece which projects toward the hollow portion of the field core and faces the first bearing when viewed from the axial direction of the field core.
US08973725B2 Shock strut with pressure relief
A shock strut includes a relief device that reduces the internal pressure within a sealed chamber of the shock strut when a load condition that exceeds a maximum operating load condition is encountered. The reduced pressure permits a telescopically moving piston of the shock strut to be received into a corresponding cylinder to an amount that increases the structural capability of the shock strut, especially with respect to applied side loads that generate bending and shearing stresses in the shock strut. In one embodiment, the reduced pressure permits the piston to “bottom out” relative to the cylinder, which is a condition not otherwise achievable without the relief device. This additional stroke achievable by the piston reduces or eliminates the need to reinforce and thus add weight to the shock strut because of higher load condition design requirements.
US08973724B2 Vibration isolators and isolation systems
In an embodiment, and by way of example only, a vibration isolator is used for coupling between a payload and a base and includes a rod, a magnetic damper, a first spring, and a second spring. The magnetic damper includes a movable section and stationary section. The movable section comprises a conductive material and has an opening through which the rod extends. The stationary section includes a magnet disposed around and spaced apart from the movable section and is coupled to the base. The first spring couples the movable section to the rod. The second spring is coupled to the rod and stationary section. In another embodiment, the vibration isolator also includes a voice coil actuation system.
US08973722B2 Automatic slack adjuster with clutch release cam
An improved self-adjusting automatic slack adjuster for reducing slack in the brake of a vehicle is provided, in which an easily accessible external operating feature permits the automatic slack adjuster's one-way clutch assembly to be readily disengaged to allow smooth release and retraction of the brake shoes of a vehicle brake without damage to the one-way teeth of the clutch assembly. When the external feature is operated in a brake release direction, the motion of the feature is translated into a motion which axially displaces an output part of the one-way clutch away from an input part of the clutch a distance sufficient to disengage the parts' one-way teeth, thereby disengaging the one-way clutch to permit brake shoe retraction without resistance from the one-way clutch.
US08973718B2 Caliper parking brake
A caliper parking brake including: caliper housing having one end on which a cylinder is formed and the other end on which a fork is formed to face the cylinder; brake force input terminal rotatably mounted on an end of the cylinder by a parking cable; brake force switching terminal installed within the cylinder on a common axis so as to rotate together with the brake force input terminal; brake force output terminal directly connected to the brake force switching terminal on a common axis; and a brake terminal that is disposed between the fork and the brake force output terminal and stops rotation of a brake disc using the brake force output by the brake force output terminal, wherein the brake force output terminal compensates for abrasion that occurs in the fork and a frictional pad of the piston by moving an initial position of the piston forward.
US08973713B2 Height adjustment system for wheelchair lift
A wheel chair lift device includes a base, a lift car, and a lift mechanism for raising and lowering the lift car relative to the base. A maximum height system includes a light source, optical sensor, magnetic-backed reflector, and a placement tool for engaging a reference port on the lift car. Operation of the light source and optical sensor are confirmed before the lift car is elevated.
US08973705B2 Swivel D-ring attachment point
A swivel D-ring attachment point. A first attachment portion has a first closed aperture defining a circular ring portion that extends over a first circumferential range of at least 180 degrees of arc that is symmetrically disposed relative to an axis. A second attachment portion has a second closed aperture. The first and second attachment portions are joined together so as to permit freely swivelling one of the attachment portions relative to the other around the axis. The second aperture has a shape that is substantially different from the shape of the first aperture, for connecting to substantially different articles.
US08973698B2 Electric motorcycle
An electric motorcycle is provided. The motorcycle includes: a charging connector to which is removably attached an outside charging connector connected to an outside electric power supply; a battery that charges with electric power supplied from the outside electric power supply when the outside charging connector is connected to the charging connector, and discharges the electric power to the motor; a rear frame connected to a front frame of a vehicle body; and a seat on which a driver or passenger is seated and a cowling for covering the vehicle body, the seat and cowling being mounted to the rear frame, wherein the seat or cowling is pivotally or removably attached to the rear frame, and the charging connector is placed in a space in the vicinity of the rear frame, the space being opened and closed by the seat or cowling.
US08973696B2 Motorcycle
To provide a motorcycle in which a distinction between a main harness and ABS pipes can be easily made to enhance flexibility of packaging design of the motorcycle and to facilitate operations for assembly and piping, thereby improving productivity of the motorcycle.A main harness 50 for supplying electric power from a battery 61 to multiple electric components 62 to 67 is arranged on one side in a right-to-left direction of a vehicle 10, and ABS pipes 101, 102 and 106 for transmitting a hydraulic pressure to a brake caliper 74 are arranged on the other side in the right-to-left direction of the vehicle 10.
US08973693B2 Side by side all terrain vehicle
A utility vehicle comprises at least one front ground engaging member; at least one rear ground engaging member; and a frame extending in a longitudinal direction of the vehicle. The frame includes a front portion, a rear portion, and a channel member extending in the longitudinal direction between the front and rear portions. The vehicle further comprises a floor board coupled to the channel member and a powertrain assembly having a drive shaft operably coupled to at least one of the front ground engaging member and the rear ground engaging member. Additionally, the vehicle comprises a plurality of transport lines configured to transport at least one of a fluid and an electrical connection between the front portion and the rear portion of the frame. The channel member is positioned intermediate the drive shaft and the transport lines and is configured to support the transport lines.
US08973692B1 Work vehicle having reducing agent tank, battery and partition plate positioned between tank and battery
A work vehicle includes a reducing agent tank, a battery, a reducing agent tank mounting member, a battery cover and a first guide member. The battery and the tank are positioned in a row. The mounting member has a bottom plate, and a partition plate extending upward from the bottom plate between the tank and the battery. The tank is mounted on the bottom plate. The battery cover has an upper plate above the battery, and a side plate extending downward from a side of the upper plate between the tank and the battery. The first guide member extends from the side plate toward the tank and slopes downward. Preferably, a first end of a second guide member disposed below the first guide member is positioned closer to the battery than a distal end of the first guide member, with the second guide member sloping downward toward the tank.
US08973690B2 Front wheel energy recovery system
A kinetic energy recovery system (“KERS system”) and motorcycle equipped with the same is disclosed. The KERS system may be mechanical, hydraulic, or a combination thereof. In an embodiment, motorcycle includes a rear wheel, an electric motor, a motor shaft, and a front wheel equipped with a wheel hub that includes a sprag clutch. The motor shaft can be fitted with a motor drive sprocket that drives a jackshaft chain that in turn drives a jackshaft input sprocket that is fitted to the jackshaft. Jackshaft input sprocket may be installed in conjunction with a sprag clutch that allows the rear wheel to free wheel during coasting while the front wheel KERS system is engaged. The motor harvests kinetic energy from the front wheel without simultaneously powering the rear wheel while the use of a geared dead zone allows the front and rear wheels to not lock together to improve safety.
US08973689B2 Electrically operated vehicle with a rider saddle
An electrically powered vehicle, for example a motorcycle. Disclosed is a vehicle (1) having a rider saddle (7) and a vehicle frame (10) having two frame profiles (11) extending up to a steering head (5) spaced away from each other and the vehicle (1) comprising at least one front wheel (3) guided at a front wheel guide (2) of the vehicle frame (10) and at least one rear wheel (17) guided at a rear wheel guide (13) and the vehicle having a electrically operated drive motor (30) as well as an electrical energy storage device (16) and a drive motor controller (41) and that between the drive motor (30) and a driving wheel a drive train is provided and that the energy storage device (16) is mountable between the frame profiles (11) above the drive motor (30) and the energy storage device (16) is releasably defined at a drive unit (28) mounting the drive motor (30).
US08973688B2 Suspension system and control method for track-propelled machines
A suspension system for cold planer with four tracks is disclosed. The suspension system includes a hydraulic cylinder for each track, an additional bypass valve for each hydraulic cylinder and an additional bypass valve that bypasses the operation of the front control valves that control the elevation of the front tracks during a cutting operation. During transport or roading of the cold planer, the bypass valves are energized by a controller and the energized bypass valves provide communication between the head ends of the left side cylinders and the head ends of the right side cylinders. During roading, the energized bypass valves also provide communication between the rod ends of the front cylinders and between the rod ends of the rear cylinders.
US08973687B2 Cutting elements, earth-boring tools incorporating such cutting elements, and methods of forming such cutting elements
Cutting elements include a substrate, a polycrystalline table, and an asymmetric interface feature. The interface feature includes a shape that is reflectively asymmetric about at least two planes defined by x, y, and z axes of a Cartesian coordinate system defined to align a z axis of the coordinate system with the central axis of the substrate and to locate a center of the coordinate system at a midpoint along an axial height of the asymmetric interface feature. Methods of forming a cutting element involve: forming an asymmetric interface feature at an end of a substrate; distributing a plurality of superhard particles on the substrate over the asymmetric interface feature in a mold; and bonding the superhard particles in the mold to form a polycrystalline table attached to the substrate.
US08973686B2 Super-hard cutter inserts and tools
A cutter insert assembly for a drill bit for boring into the earth, comprising a super-hard structure clampable to a support body by means of a clamp mechanism; the clamp mechanism comprising opposed or opposable compression members connected or connectable by a tension member capable of sustaining a clamping force between the compression members when the cutter insert assembly is in a clamped condition, in which condition the compression members exert opposing compressive forces on the super-hard structure and the support body, operable to clamp the super-hard structure to the support body, and in which condition the cutter insert assembly is self-supporting and capable of being mounted onto a drill bit body.
US08973683B2 Heavy duty matrix bit
An apparatus and method for manufacturing a downhole tool that reduces failures occurring along a bondline between a cemented matrix coupled around a blank. The cemented matrix material is formed from a powder and a binder material. The blank includes an internal blank component and a coating coupled around at least a portion of the surface of the internal blank component. The internal blank component includes a top portion and a bottom portion. The internal blank component is substantially cylindrically shaped and defines a channel extending through the top portion and the bottom portion. The coating is a metal in some exemplary embodiments. The coating reduces the migration of the binder material into the blank thereby allowing the control of intermetallic compounds thickness within the bondline.
US08973682B2 Wellbore obstruction clearing tool and method of use
A wellbore obstruction-clearing tool connected to the bottom of a tubing string, such as casing, utilizes a sleeve which is axially and rotationally moveable in response to axial reciprocation of a tubing string to engage and clear obstructions in the wellbore. Fluid is discharged through the casing and the tool to engage the obstructions and to convey debris through the annulus to surface. Thus, the obstructions are cleared from the wellbore, permitting the casing to be advanced, without the need to rotate the casing.
US08973681B2 Pressurized fluid flow system for a reverse circulation down-the-hole hammer and hammer thereof
A pressurized fluid flow system for a reverse circulation down-the-hole hammer includes a cylinder and a cylindrical control tube that are respectively coaxially disposed in between the outer casing and the piston of the hammer and in between the piston and the sample tube. Two chambers help to respectively supply and discharge pressurized fluid into and out of the front and rear chambers that exert work on the piston: an internal chamber, defined by a central recess in the inner surfaces of the piston and permanently connected to the source of pressurized fluid, and a discharge chamber, defined by one or more recesses in the inner surface of the outer casing and permanently communicated with the bottom of the hole. A hammer provided with this system has one or more end discharge ports connected to respective longitudinal discharge channels formed on the outer surface of the outer casing.
US08973679B2 Integrated reaming and measurement system and related methods of use
A downhole reaming system includes a tubular body having a drill bit disposed on a distal end thereof, and a central bore therethrough, wherein the tubular body is attached to a drillstring, an expandable reamer having cutter blocks coupled thereto and configured to selectively expand radially therefrom, a near-bit reamer disposed proximate the drill bit, the near-bit reamer having cutter blocks coupled thereto and configured to expand therefrom, and a measurement sub configured to measure at least one characteristic of an interior wall of an enlarged wellbore.
US08973677B2 Housing, mandrel and bearing assembly positionable in a wellbore
A housing, mandrel and bearing assembly positionable in a wellbore includes a torque transmission member adapted to connect to a source of rotational torque (e.g. a downhole motor power output) and a tubular mandrel adapted to connect to a drill bit. A lower tubular housing is adapted to contain a lower bearing and catch sleeve assembly. The catch assembly is adapted to retain the mandrel in the lower housing if the mandrel breaks. An upper tubular housing contains an upper bearing and is adapted to connect to a housing of the downhole motor. A method of assembling the downhole housing, mandrel and bearing assembly is disclosed.
US08973676B2 Active equivalent circulating density control with real-time data connection
An apparatus uses well devices, both downhole and at the surface, to control at least one condition in a wellbore. The downhole equipment includes flow restriction devices that modulate fluid flow along a wellbore annulus, flow bypass devices that selectively bypass fluid flow from wellbore tubular bore to the wellbore annulus, and downhole sensors that generate information relating to a selected parameter of interest. The surface equipment includes a pump that circulates a drilling fluid in the wellbore. Controllers, which may be downhole and/or at the surface, use sensor information to generate advice parameters or signals that may be used to control the flow restriction devices, the flow bypass devices, and/or the fluid circulation pump.
US08973670B2 Fire suppression system
A fire suppression system for a container including a first tank containing a first liquid component of a two-part foam and a second tank containing a second liquid component of the foam. The system also includes at least one liquid component release device configured to be selectively capable of releasing the first and second components from their respective containers upon receipt of a signal from a fire detector upon detection of a fire. The two-part foam components are propelled through the system by a pressurized propellant that, upon release of the release device, causes the exit of the foam components from their respective tanks, through a mixing conduit to at least one nozzle. The nozzle is configured to spray the liquid component foam mixture into the container wherein the foam cures into a substantially semi-rigid, closed cell foam that is substantially impermeable and may have charring and/or intumescence properties.
US08973668B2 Compositions for oil recovery and methods of their use
Embodiments of the present disclosure include compositions for use in enhanced oil recovery, and methods of using the compositions for recovering oil. Compositions of the present disclosure include a nonionic, non-emulsifying surfactant having a CO2-philicity in a range of about 1.5 to about 5.0, carbon dioxide in a liquid phase or supercritical phase, and water, where the nonionic, non-emulsifying surfactant promotes a formation of a stable foam formed of carbon dioxide and water.
US08973667B2 Packing element with full mechanical circumferential support
A packer device for forming a fluid seal between an inner tubular member and an outer tubular member. The packer device includes a swage assembly that is expandable from a reduced diameter condition to an expanded diameter condition and a substantially deformable packer element for contacting and forming a fluid seal against a surrounding tubular. The packer element radially surrounds the swage assembly and being moved outwardly into a sealing configuration when the swage assembly is moved to its expanded diameter condition.
US08973664B2 Subsea wellhead stabilization using cylindrical sockets
A wellhead assembly for use subsea includes a high pressure housing landed within a low pressure housing. The low pressure housing is an annular member that mounts into the sea floor and having an inner surface engaging the high pressure housing along a loading interface. Upper and lower sockets are formed along axially spaced apart portions of the outer surface of the high pressure housing. As the high pressure housing inserts into the low pressure housing, the high pressure housing sockets engage corresponding sockets formed along axially spaced apart sockets on portions of the inner surface of the low pressure housing. The sockets each have cylindrically shaped outer surfaces, and when engaged with one another define the loading interface. The sockets are strategically located on the upper and lower portions of the housings to maximize their distance apart.
US08973660B2 Apparatus, system and method for injecting a fluid into a formation downhole
A method is disclosed, including but not limited to positioning a tool containing an injection liquid in a well bore formed in a formation; injecting the injection liquid through a probe into the formation; and withdrawing formation fluid from the formation through the probe. A system is disclosed for performing functions useful in positioning a tool containing an injection liquid in a well bore formed in a formation; injecting the injection liquid through a probe into the formation; and withdrawing formation fluid from the formation through the probe.
US08973658B2 Heat recovery method for wellpad SAGD steam generation
A method of recovering heat from hot produced fluids at SAGD facilities is described that utilizes wellpad steam generation such as Direct Steam Generators (DSG). Heated fluids produced by SAGD are used to preheat the water that is used to make steam for SAGD. Feedwater is conveniently preheated at the wellpads by the produced fluids, emulsions, and/or gases before feeding to the DSGs.
US08973652B1 Pipe wiper box
The pipe wiper assembly of the present invention assists with wiping the pipe as the pipe is removed from the hole (“tripped out”). The pipe passes through the two pipe apertures of the pipe wiper assembly during the removal. Two upper containment arms adjust between an open position and a closed position within the housing to form the upper pipe aperture. The lower containment lip forms the lower piper aperture. The upper containment arms and lower containment lip partially enclose the housing to prevent the wiper from exiting the wiper storage. The containment arms slideably adjust to eliminate the need for hinges. The removal of the hinges provides for easier storage and transportation of the pipe wiper assembly. The removal of hinges also reduces manufacturing costs of the pipe wiper assembly.
US08973650B2 Superconductive heat transfer system
A system, including a superconductive heat transfer assembly, including, a first superconductive heat transfer pipe, a second superconductive heat transfer pipe, and a superconductive heat transfer contact switch configured to open and close a gap between the first superconductive heat transfer pipe and the second superconductive heat transfer pipe.
US08973649B2 Heat exchange apparatus with a rotating disk and automatic control of heat exchange between two fluid streams by modulation of disk rotating speed and/or flow rate
A rotary type heat exchange apparatus with automatic flow rate exchange modulation includes unidirectional pumps for pumping fluid through a heat exchange rotating disk in two different directions. The heat exchange apparatus may further be installed with at least one temperature detecting device, humidity detecting device and/or gaseous or liquid state fluid composition detecting device for generating temperature, humidity, and/or composition detection signals. The temperature humidity, and/or composition detection signals may be used as references for modulating the pumping flow rate of exchange fluid, or for modulating the operating timing of the fluid flow by controlling the rotating speed of the heat exchange rotating disk.
US08973648B2 Tubesheet gripping mechanism and method
A tubesheet anchor for suspending a tool from the underside of a heat exchanger tubesheet that inserts one end of two fingers into corresponding openings in the tubesheet and leverages one finger off the other to apply a frictional force to the sides of the tubesheet openings in which the fingers are inserted to clamp the fingers to the tubesheet.
US08973645B1 Portable wind-resistant traffic screen and related method
A wind-resistant portable traffic screen assembly comprising a screen to visually occlude matter behind the screen for the purpose of preventing traffic jams and generally blocking accidents, crime scenes, and other distractions from public view. The traffic screen comprises a substantially vertical member for maintaining the screen and a removable fastener with the screen that removably attaches the screen to the vertical member upon exposure to sufficient wind pressure. The screen partially disengages from the vertical member for the purpose of reducing wind pressure exerted upon the entire assembly to reduce the chance that the assembly topples over due to windy conditions.
US08973643B2 Multipanel sliding door
The multipanel sliding door comprises at least two panels which are supported for travel in substantially parallel planes along runners, and is characterized in that a rack and wheelwork arrangement is provided for the movement of the door panels.
US08973642B2 Display stands
A display assembly 10 in the form of at least two interconnected display stands 12A, 12B. Each of the stands 12 includes a spaced pair of vertically extending support members 14 mounted on feet 16. A flexible display member 18 extends between the support members 14 and is held taut thereby. A support arrangement 20 in the form of five pivotally interconnected link members 36, extends between the support members 14 immediately above the feet 16. For adjacent display stands 12, a common support member 14 forms part of each display stand 12.
US08973641B1 Roll-up contamination cover
Various roll-up contamination covers for shielding sensors and other sensitive equipment from particulate contamination are provided. Such covers may be provided by using a sheet of flexible material that has an elastically stable state of a spiral torsion spring, e.g., a clock spring shape. The spiral torsion spring may be anchored to a frame along one end that is substantially parallel to the center axis of the spiral torsion spring, and may be unrolled into a substantially unrolled state so as to cover an aperture in the frame. A movable release mechanism may be engaged with the unrolled end of the spiral torsion spring to prevent the spiral torsion spring from returning to the elastically stable state. When the release mechanism is moved to release the unrolled end of the spiral torsion spring, the spiral torsion spring may roll back into the elastically stable state and uncover the aperture.
US08973637B2 Tire with optimized apex
A pneumatic tire is described having a triangular shaped apex which extends radially outward of the bead core, and wherein the apex is formed of at least two zones. Each zone is formed of a different material, wherein the first zone extends from the base of the apex to the tip of the apex, and the second zone is located adjacent the ply. The zones are preferably formed by extrusion to form one cohesive apex. The first zone is formed of a material having a G″/G′ ratio in the range of about 0.155 to about 0.183. The second zone is formed of a material having a G″/G′ ratio in the range of about 0.125 to about 0.133.
US08973636B2 Tire for heavy goods vehicle having a reinforced bead
Tire (10) for a heavy goods vehicle comprising a radial carcass reinforcement (60) anchored in each of the beads (50) to an anchoring structure (700), comprising a circumferential reinforcement (70), the carcass reinforcement (60) being partially wrapped around the anchoring structure (700), the tire (10) also comprising a coupling reinforcement (150) comprising a first part (151) in contact with the carcass reinforcement (60) and being extended by a second part (152) in contact with the anchoring structure (700) as far as a point (157) radially on the outside of the anchoring structure (700), located axially between the axially inner-most point (702) and the axially outermost point (704) of the anchoring structure (700), the tire (10) also comprising a stiffening reinforcement (160) surrounding the coupling reinforcement (150) and running radially on the inside of the anchoring structure (700) and of the coupling reinforcement (150), in which the axially outside end point (166) of said stiffening reinforcement (160) is located at a radial distance DR from the radially innermost point (73) of the circumferential reinforcement (70), the radial distance DR being greater than or equal to 0.8 times the radial distance DS between the radially innermost and radially outermost points (71, 73) of the circumferential reinforcement (70) and less than or equal to 1.2 times the radial distance DS.
US08973635B2 Pneumatic tire with carcass cord strip wound in specified pattern
A pneumatic tire comprising a belt structure and a torus shaped carcass having a first inner radius and an outer radius, wherein the carcass is comprised of three or more layers of ply, wherein each layer of ply is formed from a rubberized strip of one or more cords, the strips being wound in an geodesic pattern having the cord extend across the carcass from a first shoulder to a second shoulder in a path that has at least one point tangent to the first inner radius located in the bead area of the tire.
US08973634B2 Self-adhesive composite reinforcement
Composite reinforcement (R-2) that is self-adhesive by curing to a diene rubber matrix, which can be used as reinforcing element for a tire, comprising: at least one reinforcing thread (20), for example a carbon steel cord; a first layer (21) of a thermoplastic polymer, the glass transition temperature of which is positive, for example 6,6 polyamide, covering said thread; and a second layer (22) comprising an unsaturated thermoplastic stirene elastomer, the glass transition temperature of which is negative, for example an SBS (stirene-butadiene-stirene) copolymer, covering the first layer (21). Process for manufacturing such a composite reinforcement and rubber article or semi-finished product, especially a tire, incorporating such a composite reinforcement.
US08973627B2 Modular scarf purse
The invention is a modular pop-up purse shell, with an optional insert, wherein a rectangular swatch of material is removably attached to the purse shell to create a customized purse.
US08973623B2 Gas filling system, and vehicle
A vehicle includes: a fuel tank into which gas is filled from a gas station that has a receiver; a transmitter; and a control device connected to the transmitter. The control device changes a transmission cycle of a signal transmitted from the transmitter to the receiver during the gas filling from the gas station into the fuel tank, according to a state quantity regarding an interior of the fuel tank.
US08973621B2 Method and device for filling a disposable injector
The invention relates to a method and a device for the sterile filling of a disposable injector with a defined dose of an injection solution, wherein the disposable injector comprises a cylinder/piston unit with a cylinder and with a piston that can be pulled back manually. The defined dose of the injection solution is stored in an interior of a container of a needle syringe held in a bored stopper. The cylinder interior is connected to the container interior in a gas-tight and liquid-tight manner through the bored stopper. The cylinder/piston unit is filled by pulling back the piston or by pressing the needle syringe piston. With the present invention, a method and a device for filling a disposable injector are developed in which, without intermediate weighing or risk of inaccurate readings, the disposable injector can be filled with a defined dose of an injection solution from a syringe with a fused-in needle.
US08973620B2 Connecting rod for a weaving loom and weaving loom comprising this connecting rod
The connecting rod (6) for two articulations with parallel axes and for transmitting the rocking movements of an output lever of a shedding device to a heald frame belonging to a weaving loom, having a first connecting tip connecting to a first articulation and secured to a longitudinal bar, a second connecting tip (62) connecting to a second articulation and including members for clamping the bar that are accessible from one side of the connecting rod, and members (64) for separating the tips along a longitudinal axis (X6) of the connecting rod. The separating member having a bearing member (640) on an inclined surface (612; 630) whereof the normal is comprised in a plane (P6) perpendicular to the axes of the articulations and is inclined relative to the longitudinal axis (X6) of the connecting rod, while the bearing member (640) can be moved in a direction perpendicular to a plane (P34) containing the axes (X3, X4) of the articulations.
US08973618B2 Stretchable stripwound hose
A stripwound hose expandable from a compressed state to a stretched state includes at least two spiral-wound strips having at least three telescoping portions in a direction of a longitudinal axis. The telescoping portions are arranged in axially overlapping relation, when the stripwound hose assumes the compressed state; and extend in axial side-by-side relation, when the stripwound hose assumes the stretched state. The telescoping portions are hooked to one another when being axially stretched.
US08973617B2 Geothermal pipe system
A pipe is provided for use in a geothermal heat exchange system. The pipe is insertable in a bore hole having a proximal end disposed relatively closer to a surface of the earth, and a distal end disposed relatively further from the surface of the earth. The pipe comprises an inflow pipe portion having a first end and a second end, an outer wall portion and an inner wall portion extending between the first and second ends for defining an inflow chamber that extends generally between the first end and the second end of the inflow pipe portion. Water can flow through the inflow chamber between the first and second ends of the inflow pipe portion in a direction toward the distal end of the bore hole.
US08973611B2 Pressure control valve having an axial supply port
A pressure control valve designed as a slide valve and having an axially situated supply port.
US08973610B2 Pneumatic control valve and pneumatic control system
A pneumatic control valve includes a first valve body, a pushing block, a rotating block, a second valve body, an end cover, and a piston. The first valve body defines a first gas inlet and a receiving hole. The first valve body forms a plurality of guiding ribs evenly positioned on the inner surface of the receiving hole away from the first gas inlet, and each of the guiding ribs forms an inclined surface at a distal end thereof. The pushing block and the rotating block are slidably received in the receiving hole. The second valve body is connected to an end of the first valve body adjacent to the receiving hole of the first valve body. The end cover is fastened on an end of the second valve body away from the first valve body. A pneumatic control system using the pneumatic control valve is also provided.
US08973609B2 Valve assembly
A valve assembly for regulating the pressure of a pressure medium (2) of a pressure medium pump (3) to at least one first consumer (4) includes a pilot-controlled pressure control valve (5) with a main piston (6) acted on by the pressure medium (2) and a pilot piston (7). A pressure chamber (8) between a piston back side (9) of the main piston (6) and the pilot piston (7) can be relieved. A relief valve (10) is connected in a fluid-conducting manner to the pressure chamber (8), opens when pressure at the load sensor (LS) represents an out-of-operation mode of the consumer (4), and recirculates pressure medium (2) having a low pressure to a pressure medium reservoir (11) or to the pressure medium pump (3). The relief valve (10) closes when the pressure at the load sensor (LS) represents an in-operation mode of the consumer (4).
US08973607B2 Failsafe air valve arrangement
An air valve arrangement for a motor vehicle, comprising a frame and an air valve provided on said frame so as to be rotatable thereto about an axis of relative movement (R) in opposing directions of relative rotation, the frame comprising an air passage opening, and the air valve is provided in such a way on the frame that it is rotatable between a shut-off position and a passage position, the air valve in the passage position reducing a passage opening area of the air passage opening less than in the shut-off position, and further comprising a drive, which is designed to drive the air valve in at least one first direction of relative rotation about the axis of relative movement (R) for relative rotation, characterized in that the air valve is coupled to a preloading device, which preloads the air valve in a direction of relative rotation.
US08973606B2 Gas concentration controller system
The present invention is one that prevents standard gas from remaining in a standard gas line to prevent a concentration of standard gas from being reduced due to adsorption, modification, or the like, and has: a diluent gas line provided with a diluent gas flow rate controlling mechanism; a standard gas line provided with a standard gas flow rate controlling mechanism; an output gas line joined by the diluent gas line and standard gas line and outputs the standard gas having a predetermined concentration; an exhaust gas line connected to an upstream side of the standard gas flow rate controlling mechanism in the standard gas line and provided with an on/off valve and a flow rate control part; and a control part that, depending on a flow rate of the standard gas flowing through the standard gas line or the type of the standard gas, switches on/off the on/off valve.
US08973604B2 Device for producing and providing a vacuum, and ventilation valve
The invention relates to a device for producing and providing a vacuum for a vacuum consumer, having a vacuum source, having a suction valve, having a non-return valve arranged between the vacuum consumer and the suction valve, and having a ventilation valve, the control inlet of which ventilation valve is connected to the suction port of the vacuum source, the output of which ventilation valve opens out between the control valve and the non-return valve, and the input of which ventilation valve is open to the environment.
US08973603B2 Gas flow regulating device
A gas flow regulating device including a housing assembly, an inlet tube assembly, and a biasing device. The housing assembly has a main housing, a valve seat body, and a distal plate forming an outlet orifice. The inlet tube assembly includes a proximal inlet end, a tube forming a lumen, and a flange, and is slidably disposed within the main housing, biased to an open state by the biasing device. The flange separates middle and constant pressure chambers within the housing assembly. The inlet tube assembly is transitionable to a closed state in response to pressure in the constant pressure chamber to generate a relatively constant flow rate of air exiting the device via the outlet orifice.
US08973600B2 Valve
A valve with a housing including an inlet opening and an outlet opening for a fluid; a closure element through which a flow of the fluid is controllable; an actuation device including an electric actuator for adjusting a closure cross section of the closure element; a drive housing at which a stator of the electric actuator is fixated, wherein a moveable moving element of the electric actuator is kinematically coupled with the closure element in an inner cavity of the drive housing which is loaded with a pressure from the fluid, wherein the stator is disposed in the inner cavity, and wherein the inner cavity of the drive housing is separated from the fluid through a moveable divider element. In order to use a valve with an actuator disposed in an abrasive fluid the inner cavity of the drive housing is separated from the fluid through a moveable divider element.
US08973597B2 Auxiliary tank and mains water supply system
A water supply system that supplies water to a plumbing system from either a mains supply, or an auxiliary supply. In a default state, a shuttle valve is pressure balanced and couples water from the mains supply to the plumbing system via mains inlet port and outlet port, and in another state the shuttle valve is pressure unbalanced and moved so that auxiliary water is coupled to the plumbing system via an auxiliary inlet port and the outlet port of the shuttle valve. Water is drawn from an auxiliary tank and coupled to the plumbing system when two conditions exist, namely when water is demanded, as sensed by flow sensor, and when water is available from the auxiliary supply, as sensed by float system. Water pressure at the auxiliary inlet port causes the shuttle to move from the default state and couple water from the auxiliary inlet port to the outlet port and thus to the plumbing system. When either of the two conditions are not met, the shuttle valve remains in the default state and couples mains water from the mains inlet port to the outlet port and thus to the plumbing system.
US08973596B2 Applicator assembly with integral check-valve
A manifold for use with an applicator assembly is provided. The manifold includes a base having at least a first proximal extension and a distal extension. The at least first proximal extension includes an outer flange and an inner flange and defines a recess therebetween. The manifold further includes at least a first connection member securely affixed to the first proximal extension. The first connection member includes an annular flange configured to be received within the recess of the at least first proximal extension and the annular flange defines a proximal cavity. The manifold further includes at least a first seal member received within the proximal cavity between the first proximal extension and the first connection member. The seal member is configured to permit flow through the manifold in a first direction and obstruct flow through the manifold in a second direction.
US08973592B2 Hands-free paint roller cleaner
A paint roller enclosure and cleaning device is disclosed that eliminates the need for a user to manually clean a roller tool after its use. The device comprises an enclosure with an interior volume wherein a used paint roller is secured. A spray pipe with a plurality of apertures directs fluid directly onto the roller. Feed for the spray pipe is controllable by a ball valve that regulates the flow of fluid, updating the intensity and volume of fluid being entered into the enclosure. When flowing, the fluid sprays from the spray pipe within the enclosure directed at a paint roller and handle. The roller is forcibly rotated by the spray fluid and cleaned of residual paint and debris without requiring the user to do so by hand. Fluid then drains through a drainage hole at the base of the enclosure, into a flex pipe and into a drain or appropriate container. A transparent covering is provided over the upper surface of the enclosure to allow visualization of the cleaning process and to prevent fluid from escaping or spraying the user. Optionally, an air hose may be attached to the enclosure to dry the roller following cleaning.
US08973587B2 Electronic cigarette device
This invention relates to an electronic cigarette device, including an electronic cigarette and an electronic cigarette charger, the electronic cigarette charger forming a first magnetic portion, the electronic cigarette correspondingly forming a second magnetic portion mutually magnetically adsorbed with the first magnetic portion. The electronic cigarette charger forms a first connector, and the first connector comprises a first seat, a first electrode pole disposed at a middle portion of the first seat and a first insulating sleeve disposed between the first seat and the first electrode pole to insulate the first seat and the first electrode pole. The electronic cigarette forms an electronic cigarette battery therein, and the electronic cigarette at an end thereof forms a second connector connected with the electronic cigarette battery and the first connector of the electronic cigarette charger. The electronic cigarette device is convenient to put/take the electronic cigarette into/out of the electronic cigarette charger.
US08973585B2 Laboratory apparatus
The present invention relates to a glass laboratory apparatus that includes a pre filter and a main filter to scrub solids from a gas using water filtration. A preferred embodiment of the present invention includes a main vessel adapted to hold a volume of a liquid such as water and an inlet conduit with an opening above the liquid level in the main vessel and an outlet below the surface of the liquid level in the main vessel. A pre filter arranges in the inlet conduit at a level above the liquid level in the main vessel. A main filter is located below the water level in the main vessel. A negative pressure is supplied to draw a gas through the first, pre-filter, through the water and second main filter.
US08973584B2 Method and apparatus for locating passive integrated transponder tags
An apparatus for locating an embedded passive integrated transponder (PIT) tag is provided. An embodiment of the locating apparatus includes a resonator capable of electromagnetically coupling to the PIT tag, and a feedback circuit connected to the resonator and configured to monitor a load conductance of the resonator. A distance between the resonator and the PIT tag is indicated by a change in the monitored load conductance when the resonator and the PIT tag are electromagnetically coupled. Another embodiment includes a resonator capable of stimulating a response signal from a PIT tag, and a processing circuit capable of calculating the distance between the resonator and the PIT tag based on the amplitude of the response signal.
US08973581B2 Patient interfaces
The present invention relates to a device for delivering a supply of gases to a patient. The device includes a patient interface and connecting member. The connecting member is preferably a L-shaped swiveled connector that is capable of being fixed into one of two positions, a first position where the connector is freely rotatable within the patient interface, and a second position where an interference between the interface and connector prevents the free rotation of the connector within the patient interface, The present invention further relates to a connector that has outlet means, which includes at least one outlet vent and a funnel, which in use directs and passes a substantial portion gases expired from the patient through the outlet vent or vents.
US08973575B2 Anaesthesia machine arrangement and a method in connection with an anaesthesia machine arrangement
Anaesthesia machine arrangement and a method in connection with an anaesthesia machine arrangement comprising a gas dispenser of an anaesthesia machine connected to a patient circuit that comprises a monitor device, a control device and an interface unit. The gas dispenser is configured to deliver a desired concentration of fresh gas to the patient circuit, the desired concentration being set by using the interface unit. The monitor device is configured by using a sample line to monitor gas concentration in the patient circuit and the control device is configured to control the gas dispenser from the basis of the data received from the monitor device to keep the desired fresh gas concentration.
US08973574B2 System for respiratory emergencies
A portable resuscitation system is provided. The system includes a housing for enclosing a ventilation device and a vital signs tracking device. The housing is anatomically designed for use as a neck support for opening an airway of a subject in a supine position and optionally includes mechanism for modifying the height or angle of the neck support.
US08973572B2 Press-type medical nebulizer and pressing means thereof
In a press-type medical nebulizer and a pressing means thereof, the nebulizer includes a medicament container having an intake channel and a medical spray generator. The pressing means includes a base, a pressing element and a switching element. The base has a gas-delivering tube, a gas-releasing hole and a trough. The pressing element comprises an operating arm pivotally connected into the trough and a valve for closing the gas-releasing hole. The switching element is slidingly provided on the operating arm to be selectively engaged into the trough for fixing the operating arm. When the switching element is engaged into the trough, the switching element causes the valve to close the gas-releasing hole, so that the pressurized gas can continuously flow through the gas-delivering tube and enter the intake channel. By this arrangement, the user needs not to press the pressing means repeatedly, which is convenient and labor-saving.
US08973571B1 Aerosol medication inhalation system
An apparatus for use in conjunction with a metered dose inhaler which includes a novel valve system to aid in the delivery of aerosolized medicament to a subject. The apparatus also includes a novel rotational flow generator to aid in the useable delivery of said medication and avoid its loss either in the apparatus or by non-useful delivery to said subject.
US08973570B2 System and method of tracking solar radiation
A solar tracking sensor and methods of tracking the sun. In one embodiment, the solar tracking sensor includes a housing, an inclinometer to output a signal indicative of the angle of the housing relative to the gravitational pull of the Earth, and first and second photosensors located on a first plane located within the housing. An opening on one side of the housing allows solar radiation to pass through the housing and reach the first and second photosensors. A difference calculating module is coupled to the first photosensor and the second photosensor. The difference calculating module determines a photosensor difference value using signals from the photosensors and outputs a photosensor difference value. The photosensor difference value can be used by a controller. The controller is coupled to the inclinometer determines whether the opening is aligned with the Sun based on the photosensor difference value and information or signal from the inclinometer.
US08973569B2 Gas burner
A gas burner for a cooking appliance includes at least one combustion chamber with a first gas inlet forming a substantially annular outer flame ring and a substantially annular inner flame ring. At least one flame channel is configured to trigger ignition of at least one of the inner flame ring and outer flame ring. In one example, at least one transfer burner port is in gas-flow communication with the combustible gas in the at least one combustion chamber.
US08973568B2 Gas oven
A gas oven has an oven muffle and a gas burner for said oven muffle. The gas oven has a thermogenerator for generating electrical energy during operation of the gas burner for the purpose of supplying electrical energy to an electrical functional unit, for example for supplying said electrical energy to a fan or a control of the gas oven. In this case, the thermogenerator is designed and arranged to be heated, and for heat to be introduced by the gas burner.
US08973567B2 Adapting of an oxy-combustion plant to energy availability and to the amount of CO2 to be trapped
A carbon fuel combustion process, employing an air gas separation unit, a combustion unit operating either with air or with an oxidizer leaner in nitrogen than air, coming from the air gas separation unit, and a unit for compressing and/or purifying the CO2 coming from the combustion flue gas, wherein the power consumed by the air gas separation unit and/or the flow of oxygen produced by the air gas separation unit and/or the capture of the CO2 coming from the combustion flue gas are variable over time is presented.
US08973565B2 Device and method for inducing brain injury in animal test subjects
An apparatus and method for inflicting brain injury on a laboratory animal that employs a platform for supporting the laboratory animal. The platform defines an opening for positioning the head of the laboratory animal over the opening. A projectile is launched from a projectile launching device orientated below the opening of the platform. The projectile launching device has a means for propelling the projectile directly at and/or through the opening of said platform, thereby inflicting brain injury on the animal via either a pressure wave or concussive impact of the projectile. Without helmet, direct impact of the projectile results in severe traumatic brain injury. Use of helmet protects animals from skull fracture, subdural hematoma, intracerebral hemorrhage and contusion yet produces mild concussion-like pathology.
US08973560B2 Dual fuel supply system for a direct-injection system of a diesel engine with on-board mixing
The present invention is directed to a dual fuel supply system for supplying fuel to a direct-injection system of a diesel engine. The dual fuel supply system includes a diesel supply system to supply diesel to the direct-injection system; and a mixed fuel supply system that is operatively able to supply a liquid fuel premixture of diesel and liquefied gaseous fuel to the direct-injection system at a supply pressure within a fuel demand pressure range of the direct-injection system and at a corresponding temperature range that retains the fuel premixture below its vapor temperature as it flows through the fuel path of the direct-injection system and the diesel engine. The dual fuel supply system is configured to permit selective change over between the diesel supply system and the mixed fuel system to supply the direct-injection system selectively with either diesel or liquid fuel premixture respectively.
US08973557B2 Fuel overflow valve for a fuel injection system, and fuel injection system having a fuel overflow valve
The invention relates to a fuel overflow valve for a fuel injection system, particularly for limiting the pressure in a low-pressure region of the fuel injection system. The fuel overflow valve has a valve housing, in which a valve member is disposed in a stroke-moving manner, the stroke movement of the valve member controlling a connection of an inlet to the valve housing to a release region. The valve member is loaded by a valve spring in the direction of a locking position in which the connection of the inlet to the release region is interrupted, and is loaded by the pressure present in the inlet in the opening direction. The valve member may carry out a further stroke in the locking direction beyond the locking position thereof, where the valve spring does not act upon the valve member. Due to the increased stroke of the valve member, an improved balance of pressure and volume fluctuations is enabled in the low pressure region and the stroke of the valve spring, and thus the stress thereof, may be kept low.
US08973547B2 Engine starter
An engine starter that employs a clutch between a flywheel or flex plate and a plate structure that is configured to receive rotary power from a starter motor through a transmission. The transmission may include ring and pinion gears or a belt that transmits rotary power between pulleys.
US08973546B2 Lash adjuster
A lash adjuster includes a body, a plunger inserted, into the body and having a bottom wall formed with a valve hole and a peripheral wall standing from the bottom wall and having an oil passage hole, the plunger defining a high-pressure chamber between the bottom wall and the body, a partitioning member inserted into the plunger and having an oil passage end located above the oil passage hole, the partitioning member defining an oil passage between itself and the plunger peripheral wall, the partitioning member having a low-pressure chamber reserving a hydraulic fluid flowing through the oil passage hole, the oil passage and the oil passage end, the low-pressure chamber causing the reserved hydraulic fluid to flow through the valve hole into the high-pressure chamber, and a spacer interposed between the plunger peripheral wall and the partitioning member so that the partitioning member is held in the plunger.
US08973544B2 Construction of a hydraulic oil channel between a central valve and a volume accumulator of a camshaft adjuster
A directional control valve (2) for controlling a flow of hydraulic oil from a pressure connection (80) via work chambers of a camshaft adjuster (90) to a tank connection (88). The disclosed directional control valve (2) includes an accumulator connection (86) for guiding at least a part of the hydraulic oil flowing out from a work chamber into a volume accumulator (126) before the discharge into the tank connection (88).
US08973539B2 Full expansion internal combustion engine
A two-stroke, uniflow, full expansion internal combustion (IC) engine including a plurality of cylinders, including a cylinder wall and a cylinder head having an exhaust port, an exhaust valve disposed in the exhaust port, a fuel injector and a spark means disposed through the cylinder head, a piston mounted in the cylinder for reciprocal movement between a top dead center (TDC) position and a bottom dead center (BDC) position, and through a compression stroke and a power stroke, and a swirl inlet port passing through the cylinder wall at the bottom of the cylinder, wherein the swirl inlet port is covered and uncovered in response to the reciprocal movement of the piston. The exhaust port is held in an open position for a portion of the compression stroke movement of the piston, to provide a delay in the onset of the compression phase of the cylinder cycle.
US08973533B2 Livestock confinement pen with wall panel having divided opening
A wall panel for a livestock confinement pen made of a hollow plastic twin sheet thermoformed body with a grid divider received in an opening of the body between the two sides of the body. One side has flanges by the opening to receive a cover cut from the other side over the opening.
US08973532B2 Aquarium light fixture with hinge
Various embodiments of the present invention provide a lighting apparatus that may be utilized with aquariums having features and functionality enabling a person to easily access the opening of an aquarium for various purposes, such as cleaning and maintenance. According to one embodiment of the invention, the lighting apparatus comprises an arm member fixedly attached to the panel, a clamp member for attachment of the device to a wall of the aquarium, a hinge member for hingedly attaching the arm member to the clamp member, and at least one light element disposed on the at least one panel such that at least one lighting element illuminates a side common to all panels.
US08973530B2 Cat litter box cleaning system
A cat litter box cleaning system designed to sieve waste clumps from cat litter is provided. The cat litter box cleaning system has multiple layers thereby providing multiple cleaning operations. The layers may consist of a sieving layer and a liner. The liner shields the sieving layer from the cat's claws and the sieving layer is used to remove the waste from the litter. Each sieving layer and liner releasably cooperates with layer securing fixtures. The layer securing fixtures releasably attach the layers to a base and prevent the cat from dislodging the sieves or liners. Access ports may be provided for removing the layers from the layer securing fixtures without having to come into contact with the cat litter. A method is provided where at least two cat litter box cleaning systems are utilized to ensure that fresh cat litter always forms the basis of the litter used.
US08973529B1 Covered bowls such as pet food and water bowls
A cover for a bowl, such as a pet food or water bowl, that comprises a cover molded on or affixed to the outer surface of a bowl, thereby providing aesthetically pleasing exterior features, while also providing protection to the covered bowl and insulating qualities to the contents of the covered bowl. The cover of the present invention may be fabricated from rubber or plastic secured to the outer surface of the metallic bowl.
US08973528B2 Split feed distributor with feed supplied from below and thrown circumferentially
A feed distributor used in fish ponds with feed supplied from below and thrown circumferentially comprises a feed-supplying mechanism, a feed-throwing mechanism and a feed-conveying mechanism by which feed supplied from said feed-supplying mechanism is delivered to said feed-throwing mechanism; the feed-supplying mechanism has a hopper which connects with a feed container above and a feed conveyor below. The feed-throwing mechanism has a launching disc with a sealed top, feed outlets in its circumference and a feed inlet below. The launching disc is disposed on a hollow shaft with an inner hole opposed to said feed inlet. The feed-throwing mechanism is disposed in pond and the feed supplying mechanism settles on a bank, feed is sucked into the feed-throwing disc and thrown circumferentially under negative pressure caused by rotation of the launching disc, and has a low crushing rate.
US08973526B2 Plasma deposition apparatus and method
A plasma deposition apparatus includes a cathode assembly including a cathode disk and a water-coolable cathode holder supporting the cathode disk, an anode assembly including a water-coolable anode holder, a substrate mounted on the anode holder to serve as an anode, and a substrate holder mounting and supporting the substrate, and a reactor for applying a potential difference between opposing surfaces of the cathode assembly and the anode assembly under a vacuum state to form plasma of a raw gas. The cathode disk comes into thermal contact with the cathode holder using at least one of a self weight and a vacuum absorption force so as to permit thermal expansion of the cathode disk.
US08973524B2 Combinatorial spin deposition
A spin deposition apparatus includes a deposition mask configured to be arranged proximate a target substrate. The deposition mask includes at least one fluid reservoir offset from a rotational axis of the deposition mask and configured to hold fluid for dispersal on a portion of a surface of the target substrate.
US08973523B2 Device for creating and conveying a gas-powder mixture
The invention relates to a device for creating and conveying a gas-powder mixture having a powder receiving space (3) that is connected to a vacuum creation device via a vacuum line (19) that discharges to the upper region of said powder receiving space. A reduced pressure in comparison to a mixing chamber (7) can be created within the powder receiving space (3), and thus a gas flow directed against the powder flow direction within a powder supply channel (6).
US08973521B2 Coating device and coating method
A device for coating a medical implant includes a container that contains a liquid having at least one pharmaceutically active substance. An elastic head for application of the liquid onto a surface to be coated is connected to an inside of the container through at least one channel.
US08973518B2 Hanging pot water indicator
A hanging pot water indicator having a hollow tubular spring housing, a dust protector on the upper end of the tubular housing, the dust protector having a fastening collar fitting around the upper end of the tubular housing, a hollow tubular sliding sleeve, having an interior diameter greater than the exterior diameter of the tubular housing, and being telescopically slidable in respect thereof, a lower flared portion on the lower end of the sleeve, an opening in the dust protector, a coiled extension spring within the tubular housing and the sleeve, an upper wire extension portion extending from the upper end of the spring passing through the opening in the dust protector, and defining an upper hook, and a lower wire extension extending from the lower end of the spring, and formed to define a hook.
US08973516B2 Pneumatic signaling device for scuba divers
The audible alarm device comprises a coupling assembly, a chamber assembly and an air horn assembly, releasably separable from each other. The coupling assembly and the chamber assembly are movable by squeezing action so that in one relative position pressurized air from an air inlet in the coupling assembly is allowed through a valve assembly into an interior chamber in the chamber assembly, the air driving a bi-stable piston into repeated contact with a percussion diaphragm, producing a below surface audible sound. An exhaust passage permits air to pass from the interior chamber to the surrounding environment. When the coupling assembly and the chamber assembly are moved by diver action to a second relative position, the exhaust passage is blocked, forcing air in the interior chamber to exhaust to the air horn assembly, which produces an audible sound above the water surface.
US08973515B2 Wakeboard tower system
A boat tower and methods for making in which the tower is made of one or more composite members, each including a structural member and molded decorative members attached to opposite sides of the structural member, resulting in a tower system that requires substantially less finishing of the surfaces of the structural members as compared to conventional boat towers.
US08973507B2 Bogie for guide rail type vehicle
The present invention provides a bogie for a guide rail type vehicle that runs along a predetermined guideway. The bogie includes a turn frame connected to a vehicle body; an axle turnably mounted to the turn frame via bearings and; a guide frame mounted to the axle; a first pair of guide wheels rotatably provided at a vehicle body end side portion of the guide frame; a second pair of guide wheels rotatably provided at a vehicle body center side portion of the guide frame; a stopper provided so as to project from an upper surface on a vehicle body side of the axle toward the vehicle body; and a pair of stopper receivers arranged facing each other at intervals from the stopper in a vehicle lateral direction.
US08973505B2 Motorized dolly
A motorized dolly includes an elongated frame, a first and second arc-shaped rail, a first and second pulley, a continuous belt, a motor, a platform, a first and second set of rollers or wheels, a fastener and one or more controls. The first arc-shaped rail has a first radius to a point in space. The second arc-shaped rail has a second radius greater than the first radius. The first and second pulleys are attached to the elongated frame proximate to each end. The continuous belt is movably attached to the first pulley and the second pulley. The motor is operably engaged with the first pulley, the second pulley or the continuous belt. The first and second set of rollers or wheels are attached to the platform and movably engaged with the first and second rails, respectively. The fastener securely is attached to the platform and the continuous belt.
US08973503B2 Fragmentation bodies, warheads including fragmentation bodies, and related ordnance
A fragmentation body comprising a substantially monolithic structure comprising a metal material and comprising a major surface having an indentation pattern therein, and an opposing major surface having an opposing indentation pattern therein, the opposing indentation pattern being substantially aligned with the indentation pattern. A warhead and an article of ordnance are also described.
US08973498B2 Recording apparatus
There is provided a roll paper storage cassette and a recording apparatus which do not need a roll paper storage cassette according to the size of roll papers, and prevent a roll paper, a roll-paper shaft, and a roll paper storage cassette from being erroneously loaded. A roll paper storage cassette for housing a roll paper wound around the core portion of a roll paper shaft includes a pair of openable and closable cases, an attachment which can be attached and detached to and from the inside of both ends of the case according to the size of the roll paper, and a regulation member configured to prevent the roll paper shaft of a specific type from entering and allow the roll paper shaft of another specific type to enter in a state where the attachment is detached and configured to be moved from a position where the roll paper shaft of the specific type is prevented from entering in a state where the attachment is attached.
US08973489B2 Cartridge extraction device
A device (1) has: a cartridge seat (10) arranged to receive an ingredient cartridge (2) for extraction; a beverage outlet (35) connected to this cartridge seat for dispensing beverage during extraction; and a liquid injection arrangement (50, 60, 61, 70, 80, 81) comprising a pump (60) for pressurizing and circulating liquid from a source (50) via the cartridge seat into the beverage outlet. The liquid injection arrangement further comprises a valve (80′) between the pump and the cartridge seat. The liquid injection arrangement is configured to release via the valve (80′) pressure from this pressurized liquid in the injection arrangement and maintain liquid in the injection arrangement from the pump (60) to the cartridge seat (10) after the pump is stopped, so as to inhibit dripping from the beverage outlet (35).