| Document | Document Title |
|---|---|
| US09011220B2 |
Tractor cab heating and ventilating systems
A tractor cab HVAC system has a blower (22) which draws air into the system via air intake means (13) in the roof (14) of the cab (10). Ducting (15) in the roof of the cab directs air drawn in via the intake means down the center of one or more hollow adjacent pillars (16) of the cab to an air filter (18) contained in a housing (20) located between the adjacent pillars. Further ducting (19) extends from the air filter housing to an HVAC unit (11), the HVAC unit processing the air drawn into the system prior to discharging the processed air into the cab. The filter housing (20) is of generally rectangular form and is connected at opposite ends to the two hollow adjacent pillars (16) of the cab via inlet openings (20a) in the housing to allow the passage of intake air from the pillars to the filter (18). |
| US09011219B2 |
System and method for air-conditioning an aircraft cabin
A system for air-conditioning an aircraft cabin includes an air conditioning unit connected to a central mixer, a first recirculation system designed to remove exhaust air from a first aircraft cabin region and connected to the central mixer, and a second recirculation system designed to remove exhaust air from a second aircraft cabin region and connected to a local mixer. A control device is designed to control the second recirculation system to reduce an air volume flow being removed from the second aircraft cabin region when shifting from a first operating state (e.g., normal operation) to a second operating state (e.g., defined operating situations such as when quick cooling is desired). The air volume being removed from the first aircraft cabin region may be increased accordingly in the second operating state. |
| US09011218B2 |
System and method for ventilating explosive regions of an aircraft
A system for ventilating an explosion hazard region of an aircraft includes a ram-air channel, which has an air inlet for feeding ambient air into the ram-air channel as well as an air outlet. The ram-air channel is devised to feed air to a device that is to be cooled on board the aircraft. A ventilation line has an air inlet for feeding air flowing through the ram-air channel into the ventilation line as well as an air outlet. The ventilation line is devised to feed air to a region of the aircraft that is to be ventilated. An accumulator is disposed between the ram-air channel and the air inlet of the ventilation line and is devised to convert the dynamic pressure of the air flow conveyed through the ram-air channel at least partially into static pressure for regulating flow through the explosion hazard region. |
| US09011217B2 |
Air guide element and air guide element arrangement for an aircraft air conditioning system
An air guide element (10) for an aircraft air conditioning system comprises a housing (12), which has an air inlet opening (14) and an air outlet opening (16). The air inlet opening (14) and the air outlet opening (16) are disposed in such a way and the housing (12) is shaped in such a way that air that is fed to the air guide element (10) through the air inlet opening (14), as it flows through the air guide element (10), is deflected at an angle of ca. 45° to 135° relative to the direction of the air flow through the air inlet opening (14). A cross-sectional area of flow of the housing (12) that is disposed at right angles to the direction of the air flow through the air outlet opening (16) is subdivided into at least two regions (18a, 18b, 18c). In each of said regions (18a, 18b, 18c) an easily accessible, removable and exchangeable calibrating element (20a, 20b, 20c) is disposed, which is designed to generate, in the air flow passing through a region (18a, 18b, 18c) that is associated with a respective calibrating element (20a, 20b, 20c), a pressure loss that is constant over said region (18a, 1b, 18c). |
| US09011215B2 |
Control of exhaust systems
Exhaust capture and containment are enhanced by means of automatic or manual side skirts, a sensitive breach detector based on interference effects, a combination of vertical and horizontal edge jets, and/or corner jets that are directed to the center diagonally from corners. Associated control functions are described. |
| US09011213B2 |
Fish transporting device for automatically feeding fish to a fish processing machine and device for aligning fish in a head/tail orientation having such a fish transporting device
The invention concerns a fish transporting apparatus for automatically feeding fish to a fish processing machine. The fish transporting apparatus can include a transport device with a bottom element for receiving the fish and lateral boundary elements for guiding the fish as well as a vibrating member for vibratory driving of the transport device, which is distinguished in that the bottom element is constructed as a grid plate with rectangular apertures. Furthermore, the invention concerns a device for aligning fish in a head/tail orientation with such a fish transporting apparatus. |
| US09011212B2 |
Polishing pad and manufacturing method therefor
Provided are a polishing pad which remedies the problem of scratches occurring when a conventional hard (dry) polishing pad is used, which is excellent in polishing rate and polishing uniformity, and which can be used for not only primary polishing but also finish polishing, and a manufacturing method therefor. The polishing pad is a polishing pad for polishing a semiconductor device, comprising a polishing layer having a polyurethane-polyurea resin foam containing substantially spherical cells, wherein the polyurethane-polyurea resin foam has a Young's modulus E in a range from 450 to 30000 kPa, and a density D in a range from 0.30 to 0.60 g/cm3. |
| US09011210B2 |
Abrasive-smoothing/polishing tool
A smoothing/polishing tool (10) of the type including a hollow cylindrical body (1), a plurality of expansion sectors (4) for a plurality of abrasives (6) integrally mounted on the external surface of an elastic bushing (7), fit on the expansion sectors (4). The tool (10) includes at least one key (11) insertable in one or more cavities (12) or notches obtained along one or more sectors (4); the key (11) bears one or more teeth (11A) adapted to interfere and be engaged with corresponding one or more holes or slits (13) obtained on the bushing (7); following the rotation of the smoothing/polishing tool (10), the key (11) drives the bushing (7) in rotation and at the same time supports the radial motion of the bushing during expansion. |
| US09011204B2 |
Reducing small colloidal particle concentrations in feed and/or byproduct fluids in the context of waterjet processing
A waterjet system in accordance with a particular embodiment includes a pressurizing device configured to pressurize a fluid, a cutting head downstream from the pressurizing device, and a catcher positioned to collect a jet from the cutting head. The system can further include a treatment assembly configured to treat a feed fluid to the pressurizing device and/or a byproduct fluid from the catcher, such as by removing submicron colloidal particles from the feed fluid and/or from the byproduct fluid. For example, the treatment assembly can include a coagulation unit, such as a chemical coagulation unit or an electrocoagulation unit, configured to coagulate the submicron colloidal particles. The pressurizing device, the cutting head, and the treatment assembly can be at different respective portions of a fluid-recycling loop. |
| US09011189B2 |
Chain terminal
A chain terminal is configured that a plurality of terminals are arranged in a chain shape by being connected to a side edge portion of a strip plate-shaped carrier through bridging sections respectively, and the terminals are configured to be cut and separated from the carrier when the bridging sections are cut out along a preset cutting line. Both side edges of each of the bridging sections are formed as slanted edges that are slanted with respect to lines respectively being perpendicular to the cutting line so that the width of each of the bridging sections at a terminal side is large and the width of each of the bridging sections at a carrier side is small. |
| US09011185B2 |
Electrical plug-in contact
An electrical plug-in contact, having a first region for electrical contact with an electrical connection and a second region for electrical contact with an electrical conductor, wherein the two regions are connected to each therein an electrically conductive manner. To provide a plug-in contact that has a simpler design and is more reliable in use, the second region is designed as a plug-in sleeve, in particular a cylindrical plug-in sleeve, which, in the contact region thereof with the electrical conductor, has an elongated hole parallel to the longitudinal axis of the plug-in sleeve, and a longitudinal slot located diametrically opposite of the elongated hole. Furthermore, a system is provided, consisting of an electrical plug-in contact and an electrical conductor, in particular a current bar, wherein an angular, in particular quadrangular, hole for receiving the, in particular cylindrical, plug-in sleeve in the inserted position thereof is formed in the electrical conductor. |
| US09011183B2 |
Receptacle connector with circuitry for determining the configuration of a corresponding plug connector mated therewith
An electronic device having a housing and a receptacle connector. The receptacle connector includes an opening at an exterior surface of the housing. A plurality of contacts are arranged in a two dimensional array positioned within the opening of the receptacle connector. The receptacle connector is configured to concurrently mate with multiple plug connectors where each mated plug connector electrically connects to different and mutually exclusive subsets of contacts in the plurality of contacts. Switching circuitry is coupled to the plurality of contacts and configured to detect when one or more plug connectors are mated with the receptacle connector and electrically connect circuitry within the electronic device to contacts in the one or more plug connectors via subsets of contacts from the plurality of contacts. |
| US09011182B2 |
Communications plugs and patch cords with mode conversion control circuitry
Patch cords include a communications cable that has first through eighth conductors that are arranged as four twisted pairs and a plug attached thereto. The plug includes a housing that receives the cable, first through eighth plug contacts, and a printed circuit board that includes first through eighth conductive paths that connect the first through eighth conductors to the respective first through eighth plug contacts. The plug further includes a first crosstalk injection circuit between the second conductive path and the sixth conductive path and a second crosstalk injection circuit between the first conductive path and the sixth conductive path. |
| US09011181B2 |
Communications connector with improved contacts
A network cable jack includes a printed circuit board (PCB) for balancing both inductive and capacitive coupling. Using a PCB allows compact trace paths to be formed without significantly increasing manufacturing costs. By including on each trace path two distinct inductance zones separated by a neutral zone, significant gains in degrees of freedom are achieved for designing PCB trace patterns in which a pair of inductive coupling zones jointly offset the inductive coupling caused by a specification plug and the jack contacts, both in magnitude and phase angle. Further, using distinct inductance zones offers more freedom regarding the placement of capacitive plates for use in capacitance balancing as well as the placement of terminals and insulation displacement contacts. Although the magnitude of a capacitive coupling is determined by the length of the capacitor plates parallel to current carrying traces, the approach allows capacitive and inductive coupling to be balanced independently. |
| US09011175B2 |
Interference free connector socket
A connector socket has an insulation body having thereon multiple terminals, a metal body having a receiving hole defined to receive therein the insulation body, spring clips formed on side faces thereof and having protrusions formed on the spring clips for extension and accommodation in the windows of the connector plug so as to enhance engagement with the connector plug and a protection casing for receiving therein the metal body and the insulation body to block electromagnetic interference to/from the terminals. |
| US09011168B2 |
Electrical connection systems, electrical apparatuses, and electrical connection members
Electrical connection systems, electrical apparatuses, and electrical connection members are described. In one aspect, an electrical connection system includes a receptacle connection member which includes an electrically conductive sleeve, and an electrically insulative member about at least a portion of an exterior surface of the sleeve, and an insertion connection member which includes an electrically conductive post which is configured to be electrically coupled with an interior surface of the sleeve when the post is inserted into the sleeve, and an electrically insulative member about at least a portion of an exterior surface of the electrically conductive post, and wherein the electrically insulative member of the insertion connection member is spaced from the electrically conductive post, and wherein the electrically insulative member of the receptacle connection member is received between the electrically conductive post and the electrically insulative member of the insertion connection member when the post of the insertion connection member is inserted into the receptacle connection member. |
| US09011163B2 |
Coaxial electrical connector
An annular contact is enabled to be firmly retained by an insulating housing without affecting the mating force or removing force between there and a matching connector with a simple configuration. Divided end parts of the annular contact attached to the insulating housing are provided with contact retaining parts that abut part of the insulating housing and retain the annular contact at the insulating housing when removal with respect to the matching connector is carried out, so that the shapes and sizes of the contact retaining parts are not affected by elastic force of the annular contact, in other words, mating force or removing force with respect to the matching connector almost at all to facilitate adjustment of the mating force or removing force between there and the matching connector. |
| US09011159B2 |
Tridimensional modeling apparatuses, system and kit for providing a representation of an exploration network
A tridimensional modeling apparatus, system and kit is for representing an exploration network. The apparatus, system and kit include a transparent hollow cube with six plane surfaces for representing an enclosed volume, a plurality of perforations on at least two of the six plane surfaces and indicia around each opening for marking polar coordinates and orientation. The apparatus, system and kit further include a plurality of transparent rods for representing exploration channels. The plurality of perforations on the cube are arranged for receiving rods for tridimensional modeling of the exploration network and each rod is inserted into an opening with an angle and a depth, thereby resulting in a visual representation of the exploration network within the represented volume. |
| US09011158B2 |
Human surrogate neck model
A human surrogate neck model includes a spinal neck region containing cervical vertebrae. A biosimulant intervertebral material is inserted between the cervical vertebrae. The spinal neck region is surrounded by a first silicone material mixed with a polymeric cross-linking inhibitor. One or more elastic tension bands are anchored to a top interface and a bottom interface of the neck model. A second silicone material mixed with a polymeric cross-linking inhibitor is applied to surround the spinal neck region and the first silicone material and to embed the tension bands. One or more of the elastic tension bands and/or a concentration ratio of the first silicone material or second silicone material to the polymeric cross-linking inhibitor can be adjusted for variable test conditions to closely simulate or mimic the static and dynamic characteristics of a human neck in various scenarios. |
| US09011156B2 |
Mobile training device
The present invention relates to a mobile training device having bi-directional, variable resistive forces for training a baseball swing and other sports involving weight transfer and hip rotation. |
| US09011155B2 |
Method and system for behavior modification and sales promotion
A system for behavior modification and sales promotion includes a child computer device having a computer application stored thereon in a non-transitory computer readable memory. The computer application of the child computer device includes a graphical user interface allowing for a child to interact with a fictitious character. A parent computer device is provided having a computer application stored thereon in a non-transitory computer readable memory, the computer application of the parent computer device including a graphical user interface allowing a parent to control the fictitious character with which the child interacts on the child computer device. The system also includes a system server. The parent computer device, the child computer device and system server are connected by a global communication network. |
| US09011145B2 |
Maxillary expansion and advancement orthodontic applicance
A palatal expansion orthodontic appliance comprising, an advancer for advancing the upper front teeth, an expansion screw for controlling the expansion of two acrylic halves that each contain a Hang Clasp and optionally a molar intrusion wire. The two acrylic halves share and anchor the wire ends of the advancer, the Hang clasps and any molar intrusion wires. The orthodontic appliance simultaneously expands the maxillary arch and advances the upper front teeth. Methods of manufacture, including kits for the manufacture of the orthodontic appliance are also included. |
| US09011144B2 |
Palatal t-bar
A palatal t-bar for preventing movement of selected teeth during corrective movement of other teeth through the use of an orthodontic appliance such as orthodontic braces. The t-bar comprises an elongate stem having an anchorage end arranged for affixation to the palatal bone of a patient by means of a temporary bone anchorage device, e.g., a miniscrew implant, and a free end extending in an anterior direction from the anchorage end. The stem is shaped to conform to the palatal surface of the patient. A cross-bar extends laterally from the free end of the stem and is arranged to engage one or more selected maxillary anterior teeth to retain the teeth non-mobile and non-rotational during corrective movement of other teeth utilizing an orthodontic appliance such as orthodontic braces. |
| US09011141B2 |
Burner
The invention relates to a burner comprising several substantially concentric channels, one (1) of which is arranged outside of all fuel supply conduits and is delimited by two pipes (2,3), whose axes (4) are placed in a parallel position and which are movable with respect to each other. According to said invention, diverting members (6) used for imparting a tangential component (7) to a fluid flowing in the channel (1) are carried by the first pipe (2) and are fixed thereto, the second pipe (3) comprises a drive portion (9) for driving the fluid outside the diverting members (6) and the angle of tangential deviation of the fluid at the downstream end (8) of the channel (1) depends on the axial position of the second pipe (3) with respect to the first pipe (2). |
| US09011135B2 |
Film patterning system
A film patterning system includes: a first rotary member having a first shaft that defines a first axis, and a cylindrical first screen mold that is rotatable about the first axis; a second rotary member spaced apart from the first rotary member, having a second shaft that defines a second axis parallel to the first axis, and rotatable about the second axis; a second screen mold trained on the first and second rotary members and circumferentially stacked on the first screen mold; and a suctioning box mounted in the first rotary member for suctioning the film that is guided onto the second screen mold. |
| US09011130B2 |
Toggle clamping mechanism for injection molding machine
A toggle clamping mechanism for an injection molding machine includes a toggle link, a crosshead connected to the toggle link, and a driving device for driving the crosshead. A ball spline shaft is provided parallel to a ball screw for driving the crosshead. Further, a ball spline nut provided in the crosshead is engaged with the ball spline shaft so that the crosshead may be guided by the ball spline shaft. |
| US09011129B2 |
Liquid resin molding apparatus
In a liquid resin molding apparatus including a mold, an injection machine, a metering/supplying mechanism for metering a liquid resin material and supplying a metered amount of liquid resin material to the injection machine, and a pump for pressure-feeding the liquid resin material to the metering/supplying mechanism, the pump is a piston pump having a piston and an actuator for reciprocating the piston, and a discharge pressure of the piston pump is set to be at least 1.5 times a supply pressure with which the liquid resin material is supplied to the metering/supplying mechanism. A pressure reducing valve is disposed in a supply path extending from the piston pump to the metering/supplying mechanism, so as to reduce a pressure of the liquid resin material from the discharge pressure to the supply pressure. |
| US09011127B2 |
Method and system for determining and dispensing resin for a compression molding process flow
The present disclosure is directed to a system and method for forming a plurality of packaged dice on a carrier, the carrier including a storage medium configured to store an indication of a total number of unpackaged dice on the carrier. The forming includes providing a quantity of molding compound to a molding module based on the total number of the unpackaged dice on the carrier. The providing includes accessing the indication of the total number of the unpackaged dice on the carrier from the storage medium, determining the quantity of molding compound based on the indication of the total number of unpackaged dice on the carrier, and molding the unpackaged dice into the packaged dice using the quantity of molding compound. |
| US09011125B2 |
Vane pump
A vane pump includes at least one vane, a pump housing with a bottom and a lid, and a rotor rotatably mounted in the pump housing, with the at least one vane being slidingly mounted in a groove in the rotor and having at least one vane tip which protrudes from the outer peripheral surface of the rotor and rests upon the inner peripheral surface of the pump housing so that the vane defines with the bottom and the lid an intake chamber and a pressure chamber to respectively interact with a radially outer inlet opening and outlet opening in the bottom and/or in the lid, wherein the rotor is provided on the peripheral edge with a chamfer in facing relationship to the housing bottom and/or the housing lid having the inlet opening and/or outlet opening. |
| US09011124B2 |
Positive displacement fluid machine having a pivot single vane passing through an orbiting piston
An enclosed positive displacement mechanism including a body with an inlet and an outlet; a rotor mounted in the body and rotatable about a main axis; an orbiting piston located in the cavity, rotatable about an eccentric secondary axis and arranged to orbit around the main axis to roll on the internal side surface of the cavity; and a vane located in the cavity, slidable in the piston and mounted in the body between one inlet and one outlet so as to oscillate. The orbiting piston and the vane divide in cyclic manner the cavity into a first and a second chamber with variable volume, which are mutually complementary and communicate with the inlet and the outlet. During a portion of its oscillation, the vane passes through the piston and is in contact with the side surface of the cavity, thereby separating the chambers in a fluid-tight manner. |
| US09011120B2 |
Scroll compressor with bearing grooves on both sides of key groove
In a scroll compressor of the present invention, a fixed scroll 11 and an orbiting scroll 12 are meshed with each other such that spiral laps of the fixed scroll 11 and the orbiting scroll 12 inwardly face each other, an Oldham ring 26 is provided between the main bearing member 19 and the orbiting scroll 12, and a key portion of the Oldham ring 26 is inserted into a key groove 19a of the main bearing member 19. Grooves 19b are formed in Oldham ring 26 sliding surfaces on both sides of the key groove 19a. According to this configuration, the Oldham ring 26 and the main bearing member 19 can be restrained from coming into contact with each other in the vicinity of the bearing key groove 19a, and restrained from vibrating, and it is possible to provide an inexpensive scroll compressor of low noise. |
| US09011119B2 |
Variable displacement pump
A variable displacement pump includes: a discharge opening formed at a position to confront a discharge region; a back pressure introduction groove formed on the suction region side; and a discharge side thin wall portion which is formed in the second housing, which has a recessed shape opened to the outside, which is disposed on the discharge region side, which is overlapped with the rotor in the radial direction, and which includes a smallest thickness portion having a smallest wall thickness of thicknesses each of which is an axial length between a bottom surface of the recessed shape and an axially inner side surface of the second housing, the smallest wall thickness being a smallest wall thickness of axial thicknesses of the second housing. |
| US09011116B2 |
Device for blowing air by means of a nozzle assembly
A device for blowing air by a nozzle assembly includes a base seat for generating an air stream to supply air flow and a nozzle assembly supported by the base seat and comprising a slot-shaped opening for blowing air. An airflow passage is connected between the base seat and the nozzle assembly. An intake end of the airflow passage is opened on the outer surface of the base seat, and an output end is connected to the nozzle assembly by a pivot component. An intake end of the nozzle assembly is connected to an output end of the base seat by the pivot component. An impeller and an electric motor for driving the impeller to rotate are provided within the base seat. The nozzle assembly is rotatably fixed on the base seat by the pivot component. |
| US09011114B2 |
Medical fluid delivery sets and related systems and methods
This disclosure relates to medical fluid delivery sets and related systems and methods. In some aspects of the invention, a medical fluid cassette includes a plunger slidably disposed within a recess of a base of the cassette such that a substantially liquid-tight seal is maintained between the plunger and the base as the plunger slides axially within the recess. The plunger and the base cooperate to at least partially define a fluid pump chamber. When the plunger is displaced in a first direction, fluid is forced out of the fluid pump chamber, and when the plunger is displaced in a second direction, fluid is drawn into the fluid pump chamber. |
| US09011113B2 |
Magnetic-force interactive fan
A magnetic-force interactive fan includes a base, a plurality of clamp portions, an actuating portion, a main blade, and at least one interactive blade. The actuating portion has a fixed terminal and a moveable terminal; the fixed terminal is connected to one of the clamp portions. The main blade has a free terminal and a connection terminal; the connection terminal is connected to the moveable terminal of the actuating portion and a main magnet is disposed on the free terminal. The interactive blade has a top terminal and a bottom terminal; the bottom terminal is connected to another clamp portion and an interactive magnet is disposed on the top terminal. The main magnet is disposed corresponding to the interactive magnet and the main blade is driven by the actuating portion to swing, thus producing wind by synchronously swinging the main blade and the interactive blade. |
| US09011112B2 |
Fuel pump
A fuel pump has a motor portion and a pump portion, wherein fuel is sucked from an inlet port into the pump portion when an impeller is rotated and the pressurized fuel is discharged out of the fuel pump from an outlet port. A stator has multiple stator cores on which respective stator coils are wound to form a star-connection winding. A terminal sub-assembly is provided hi an axial side portion of the stator. The terminal sub-assembly has multiple conductive members and each end portion of the stator coils is respectively connected to connecting portions of the conductive members, which are arranged at equal intervals in a circumferential direction of the terminal sub-assembly. |
| US09011111B2 |
Mud pump
A mud pump is provided that includes a pump shaft having substantially circular eccentric lobes. Each lobe is rotatably mounted in a connecting rod that, in turn, moves a slide in a horizontal and linearly manner. A piston rod is operatively couples a pump module to one or both sides of each slide frame and a pump module. As the pump shaft turns, each lobe causes the slide to move side to side. As the slide moves side to side, each piston rod operates a pump module whose outputs can be coupled to a common manifold. |
| US09011109B2 |
Variable Capacity Compressor
In a swash plate type variable capacity compressor that changes a stroke of a piston by controlling the pressure of a crank chamber (6), lubrication oil contained in refrigerant gas is maximally prevented from being circulated outside the compressor. Some of discharged refrigerant gas in a discharge chamber (22) flows into the crank chamber (6) through a communication passage (25) (25a and 25b) and a control valve (27), while some of the discharged refrigerant gas flows out to a suction chamber (21) from the crank chamber (6) through a second communication passage (26) and an orifice (28), and the pressure of the crank chamber (6) is controlled through a balance between an inflow amount and an outflow amount. Oil storage chamber (30) extends downstream of the control valve (27) on the first communication passage (25) to separate oil and store the separated oil. Oil return passage (31) returns the oil stored in the oil storage chamber (30) to the crank chamber (6). |
| US09011106B2 |
Fan motor controller
A fan motor controller for a turbine engine comprises a component mounting base and a plurality of fan controller components mounted to the component mounting base. The component mounting base comprises a plurality of sections that are configured to extend circumferentially around a fan inner housing. |
| US09011098B2 |
Propeller for an aircraft turbine engine comprising a vane retaining ring mounted about the hub
A propeller for an aircraft turbine engine comprising a plurality of vanes as well as a hub having a plurality of accommodating ports receiving the bases of said vanes, each vane base being rotatably mounted in its associated accommodating port. The propeller also has at least one vane retaining ring structure in the radial direction outwardly from the hub, being cladded around the latter. |
| US09011096B2 |
Vertical axis wind turbine blade
A vertical axis wind turbine blade is revealed. The vertical axis wind turbine blade includes a blade frame formed by assembly plates disposed at regular intervals and blade bodies each of which pivoted between two adjacent assembly plates. Stoppers are disposed between the assembly plates and the blade bodies. The stopper is used to stop on one side of the blade body corresponding to a downwind surface of the assembly plate. The blade bodies pivotally connected to the blade frame move along with the blade frame to be in an open or a closed position. When the wind blows the upwind surface, the blade body is stopped by the stopper and in the closed position so as to receive the wind power. While the wind blowing the downwind surface, the blade body is in the open position to reduce the wind resistance. Thus the wind turbine efficiency is dramatically improved. |
| US09011094B2 |
Fan assembly and gap tool
This is a system and apparatus for precisely mounting a ring shroud to a motor vehicle cooling system and engine. A cooling fan subassembly is mounted to an engine and ring shroud subassembly containing fan braces that are mounted to the engine via mounting brackets. A mounting gap tool is inserted through apertures in the ring shroud to prescribe the radial and axial clearance between the ring shroud and the cooling fan subassembly. Once the ring shroud and cooling fan assembly are aligned to predetermined specifications for clearance, the installer secures all the fasteners in the mounting brackets and retrieves any or all the mounting gap tools. |
| US09011091B2 |
Pump and flow-guiding device
A flow-guiding device for an impeller radial pump is arranged radially outside the impeller and extends in a ring-shaped manner with a circumferential carrier ring on which several guide blades are arranged. These latter are formed so as to be resilient in such a manner that when there is a small fluid flow a blade angle points more in the radial direction at an angle of approximately 70° with respect to the longitudinal center axis of the pump. When there is strong fluid flow, the angle becomes smaller and the guide blades bend in a resilient manner at least in regions such that they stand at a smaller angle of between 30° and 40° with respect to the longitudinal center axis of the pump. The fluid is conveyed better in the pump chamber in this way. |
| US09011090B2 |
Centrifugal fan
A centrifugal fan includes a centrifugal impeller, a first housing, a second housing, an annular guide ring and a driving device. The centrifugal impeller has a hub and blades connected to and disposed around the hub. The first housing and the second housing cooperatively define a hollow chamber and an air outlet. An air inlet is formed in a central section of the second housing. A first arc structure is located on an inner surface around the air inlet of the second housing. Support brackets respectively extend from an end close to a tongue of the second housing and an end away from the tongue of the second housing. The support brackets are perpendicular to the second housing. The annular guide ring has a second arc structure close to an outermost margin of inner surfaces of the blades. The driving device is used for rotating the centrifugal impeller. |
| US09011083B2 |
Seal arrangement for a gas turbine
A seal arrangement for a gas turbine is disclosed. The seal arrangement is used for sealing a gap between radially internally located ends of guide vanes of a guide vane ring and a rotor, in which case the rotor has at least two seal projections positioned at an axial distance relative to each other in a circumferential direction of the rotor. The seal projections effecting a seal of the gap in combination with intake linings associated with the radially internally located ends of the guide vanes. The seal projections are inclined or tilted in the axial direction toward a side of higher pressure, where, in a space limited by the minimum of two seal projections and the corresponding intake linings, at least one recirculation structure is provided. The recirculation structure, or each recirculation structure, is oriented toward the side of the higher pressure. |
| US09011077B2 |
Cooled airfoil in a turbine engine
An airfoil in a gas turbine engine includes an outer wall and an inner wall. The outer wall includes a leading edge, a trailing edge opposed from the leading edge in a chordal direction, a pressure side, and a suction side. The inner wall is coupled to the outer wall at a single chordal location and includes portions spaced from the pressure and suction sides of the outer wall so as to form first and second gaps between the inner wall and the respective pressure and suction sides. The inner wall defines a chamber therein and includes openings that provide fluid communication between the respective gaps and the chamber. The gaps receive cooling fluid that provides cooling to the outer wall as it flows through the gaps. The cooling fluid, after traversing at least substantial portions of the gaps, passes into the chamber through the openings in the inner wall. |
| US09011075B2 |
Substrate processing method
A substrate processing method includes transferring unprocessed substrates to a first substrate holder by way of lowering a first substrate accommodation unit and loading the unprocessed substrates into a processing chamber in sequence while sequentially rotating a substrate mounting table at a preset angle in one direction, performing a preset process on substrates in a batch-type, and unloading processed substrates from the processing chamber by the first substrate holder after a completion of the preset process, transferring the processed substrates into the first substrate accommodation unit from the first substrate holder by way of raising the first substrate accommodation unit, transferring unprocessed substrates to a second substrate holder by way of lowering a second substrate accommodation unit and loading the unprocessed substrate into the processing chamber in sequence while sequentially rotating the substrate mounting table at the preset angle in the another direction. |
| US09011071B2 |
Methods and apparatus for freight container loading
Disclosed are apparatuses and methods for use thereof for loading bulk material into freight containers. One apparatus comprises a hopper configured to receive bulk material that is sized and shaped to be at least partially enclosable by a container to occupy a substantial volume of the container and a ram. The ram comprises a plate and a driver configured to move the plate from a back end of the hopper to an open end of the hopper to expel material into a container. Another apparatus comprises a hopper configured to receive bulk material that is sized and shaped to be at least partially enclosable by a container to occupy a substantial volume of the container and a reciprocating conveyor floor system. Optionally, the apparatuses further include a stand and/or collapsible legs to further support the hopper. |
| US09011070B2 |
Loading station for a storage frame
The present invention relates to a loading station for a storage frame. In the loading station, the storage frame serves for temporarily holding and transporting rod-like elements, in particular smoking rods, on which sausage-shaped products, like sausages, are stored, and comprises two side parts, wherein each side part has two supports being substantially parallel to each other and wherein the side parts are connected with each other by at least one cross beam, and horizontally arranged trays for accommodating rod-like elements. The loading station comprises at least one position defining device for defining a predetermined position of the storage frame. Moreover, at least one locking device is provided for releasably locking of the storage frame in its predetermined position. |
| US09011066B2 |
Coverslipping module for mounting coverslips onto specimen slides
The invention relates to a coverslipping module for mounting coverslips onto specimen slides (12) for microscopic investigations, having a transport apparatus (9) for transporting a specimen slide (12) out of a rack (3) or a specimen slide holder to a coverslipping position (13) in which the specimen slide (12) is equipped with a coverslip, and having an alignment device for aligning the specimen slide (12) in the coverslipping position (13) for mounting the coverslip. In order to allow the specimen slide (12) to be reliably and quickly aligned for mounting of the coverslips, thereby ensuring a high level of process dependability with a short processing time, the alignment device are constituted by multiple movable orientation jaws (18) which are arranged so that by closure of the orientation jaws (18), the specimen slide (12) becomes aligned in the coverslipping position (13). |
| US09011063B1 |
Insulated support for electric conductors, finger grip, and method of making same
A manufacturing method and device for supporting conductors. Using a non-metallic insulating material extending beyond one or both parallel legs of a staple the thumb and forefinger may grip this extension while the staple is being driven into a supporting structure. This finger grip allows for a small, insulated staple to be held with increased safety to thumb and forefinger during penetration of staple into support. |
| US09011061B2 |
Holding dowel
A holding dowel (10) for fastening a fastening means to a component (22), in particular to a vehicle body part, is adapted to be inserted into and arrested in an opening (20) of the component (22) and has a mount (26) for the fastening means. The holding dowel (10) has a base body (12) made from a hard material, which protrudes into the opening (20) and is adapted to fix the holding dowel (10) in place in the opening (20), and further has a sealing member (18) made from a flexible plastic material, which includes a surrounding sealing lip (38). In the installed condition of the holding dowel (10), the sealing lip (38) rests against the component (22) and seals the opening (20) of the component (22). The sealing member (18) is produced at least partly from a material which under the influence of heat establishes a substance-to-substance bond with the component (22). |
| US09011059B2 |
Fastening unit
A fastening unit (1,101) for fastening an object to a profile element (80) with a longitudinal slot (85). The profile element having an upper side formed by a flanges which define between them the longitudinal slot. The fastening unit includes an oblong metal anchoring element (2) for engaging behind the flanges, a washer element (4) for engaging the upper side of the flanges and a support element. The support element (3) is connected to the anchoring element and associated with the washer element. The connection between the support element and the anchoring element includes two or more connecting legs (36) which are formed integrally with a body of the support element and extend each through an associated recess in the anchoring element. The connecting legs at their distal ends have a retaining lug (37) for preventing that the anchoring element can be released from the distal ends of the connecting legs. The support element comprises one or more spring elements (36) associated with the connecting legs and a stop surface (31a) for engagement with the upper side of the anchoring element. The one or more spring elements act to push the anchoring element from the underside away from the retaining lugs so as to bias the upper side of the anchoring element against the stop surface of the support element. |
| US09011058B2 |
Fastening element for connecting a support part to an add-on part
A fastening element includes a holding part with a support plate and expanding cheeks, and a locking part guidingly received in the holding part. The expanding cheeks include cantilevered walls formed adjacent the support plate, which are offset radially outwardly with respect to a guide wall of the support plate which guides the locking part. The locking part can be pushed through the support plate substantially without force until it reaches inwardly protruding ramp projections formed on the expanding cheeks, which provide a better lever ratio for spreading the expanding cheeks. |
| US09011056B2 |
Multi-functional box stop device for the trunk of a car
A box stop device includes a base member and a raised member attached to the base member. The base member has a top surface and a bottom surface. The top surface may be flat. The bottom surface may be adapted to attach to a desired surface. The raised member may be attached to the base member and may extend approximately vertically from the top surface. The raised member may include a first side and a second side. The first side and the second side may be attached together at an angle of approximately 90 degrees. |
| US09011055B1 |
Automatic lock for cargo container
An automatic lock affixed to a cargo container for interconnecting two stacked containers, and for automatically locking and unlocking without reliance upon the overcoming of a friction force to release the device. |
| US09011054B2 |
Transport system for a wind turbine blade
A transport system for a wind turbine blade is provided. The transport system is configured for increasing a curvature of the wind turbine blade in response to an obstacle during transport of the wind turbine blade. Further, a method for transporting a wind turbine blade in order to avoid obstacles is provided. |
| US09011052B2 |
Vibration suppressing method and vibration suppressing device for us in machine tool
In a machine tool having a rotary shaft for use in rotating a tool or a workpiece, a plurality of stable rotation speeds at which the chatter vibrations are expected to be suppressed, and at least one switching rotation speed across which a dynamic characteristic of a rotary shaft system changes are stored. The plurality of stable rotation speeds may be determined from chatter vibrations detected using a vibration detection unit. Optimum rotation speed that is a rotation speed to which a rotation speed of the rotary shaft is changeable without crossing the switching rotation speed is selected from the plurality of stable rotation speeds, and the rotation speed of the rotary shaft is changed to the optimum rotation speed. Thus, chatter vibrations generated during rotation of the rotary shaft can be suppressed effectively. |
| US09011049B2 |
Double-sided cutting inserts with anti-rotation features
A double-sided cutting insert may generally comprise a top surface, a bottom surface, at least one side surface interconnecting the top surface and the bottom surface and forming at least one cutting edge, a through hole extending between the top surface and bottom surface, wherein each of the top surface and bottom surface comprise at least one anti-rotation element. The cutting insert may comprise a single anti-rotation element on the top surface and a single anti-rotation element on the bottom surface. The anti-rotation element may be proximate to the through hole. A cutting tool using the cutting inserts, as well as methods of making and using the same are also described. |
| US09011048B2 |
Method for constructing a mechanically stabilized earthen embankment using semi-extensible steel soil reinforcements
A method for constructing a mechanically stabilized earthen embankment has the steps of constructing a wall facing element, and determining a plane of maximum force and a zone of maximum force in the earthen embankment to be formed. A plurality of elongate soil reinforcement elements are bent to form semi-extensible bent segments, but such that proximal and distal portions remain substantially straight and inextensible. The elongate soil reinforcement elements are positioned such that the semi-extensible region is within the zone of maximum force, and the proximal ends are connected to the wall facing element. Fill soil is added to build the earthen embankment, and the process is repeated until the earthen embankment is formed. |
| US09011041B2 |
Subirrigation system
A subirrigation system 10 includes a water-impervious member 16, and keeps water content in soil of a cultivated land 200 in a proper state for growing a plant. The water-impervious member 16 is formed into an upper opening vessel shape, and has a water reserving function. Water is fed to an inner portion of the water-impervious member 16 from a water tank 12 via a feed water pipe 14, whereby a soil portion 26 in a gravitational water state is formed. A water level 28 of the gravitational water within the water-impervious member 16 is properly controlled to a desired water level by a water level controller 18 provided in the feed water pipe 14. The gravitational water within the water-impervious member 16 controlled to the desired water level is appropriately sucked up to the soil in an upper layer in accordance with a capillary phenomenon. Accordingly, a soil portion 30 in a capillary water state having proper water content is formed in the cultivated land 200. |
| US09011039B2 |
Apparatuses for servicing roadways
An apparatus for servicing roadways includes a frame configured to be secured to a prime mover. The apparatus further includes a grinding drum rotatably supported upon the frame. The apparatus still further includes a driving system supported upon the frame and configured to rotationally drive the grinding drum. |
| US09011033B2 |
Combined hand held surface cleaning and powered spray device
A powered, spray cleaning device that can be operated in an inverted orientation is provided. The cleaning device includes a cleaning head and an elongated handle configured to be grasped by a user. A container of cleaning solution is removably received by the handle, and when received by the handle, fluid from the container fills a fluid accumulator. Fluid in the fluid accumulator is prevented from flowing back into the container when the device is inverted, thus allowing the device to spray fluid when inverted. |
| US09011031B2 |
Multi-applicator tool
A plurality of multi-applicator tools are provided, including tools which include magnetically attachable and detachable application brushes or the like. Some embodiments include a linear arrangement of brushes in a generally elongate tool configuration. Other embodiments include a central base into which application brushes fit within. Various appearances are likewise provided. |
| US09011028B2 |
Tape cassette
A tape cassette includes a cassette case having a pair of side faces, a tape roll contained within the cassette case, a discharge guide portion positioned in the cassette case in a first corner portion provided farthest downstream on a feed path for a tape, a tape exposing portion located on the feed path, in the vicinity of the discharge guide portion and on an upstream side in relation to the discharge guide portion, a tape feed roller provided on the upstream side on the feed path from the discharge guide portion and adjacent to a rear side of the tape exposing portion, a first recessed portion formed in the vicinity of the discharge guide portion in one of the side faces included in the first corner portion, and a second recessed portion disposed in a diagonally opposite position in the cassette case from the first corner portion. |
| US09011025B2 |
Modified transistor outline (TO)-can assembly for use in optical communications and a method
A modified TO-can assembly is provided that has greater versatility with respect to spatial constraints than known TO-can assemblies and that is suitable for use in a wider range of applications than known TO-can assemblies. The modified TO-can assembly has a receptacle that has been modified to receive an optical fiber through its side instead of through its end. Within the TO-can assembly, the optical path is folded in order to couple the light between the optoelectronic component of the TOSA or ROSA and the end of the optical fiber. The combination of these features provides the modified TO-can assembly with a compact profile that makes it more versatile with respect to spatial constraints and therefore suitable for use in a wider range of applications. |
| US09011023B2 |
Installation for conveying electrical signals between a first triaxial cable and a second triaxial cable
The present invention relates to an improved installation for conveying electrical signals carried by a first triaxial cable (2) to a second triaxial cable (6) and vice versa. It comprises: a first interface (3) between the first triaxial cable (2) and a fiber optic cable (4) and a second interface (5) between the fiber optic cable (4) and the second triaxial cable (6). A television camera (7) is connected to a remote camera control unit (1) via this installation. The first triaxial cable (2) connects the camera control unit (1) with the first interface (3). The first interface (3) comprises a first adapter converting electrical signals, conveyed by the first triaxial cable (2), to optical signals. The fiber optic cable (4) transmits optical signals to the second interface (5). The second interface (5) comprises a second adapter converting optical signals to electrical signals. The second triaxial cable (6) transmits the electrical signals to the television camera (7). A mirror image of the adapters allows transmitting electrical signals from the camera (7) to the camera control unit (1). The interfaces comprise A/D converters and D/A converters respectively adapted to convert analog signals from the triaxial cable into digital optical signal to be launched into the fiber and digital optical signals into analog electrical signals. |
| US09011020B2 |
Optical interconnect
An optical interconnect includes an optical fiber which terminates in a interconnect body and a micro lens which collimates light exiting the optical fiber to produce a collimated beam. A first personality module is configured operate on the collimated beam; the first personality module being aligned with and detachably connected to the interconnect body. The optical interconnect is configured to be inserted into a socket in an optical backplane, the first personality module being further configured to operate on light passing from the optical backplane into the optical interconnect. |
| US09011019B2 |
Roller bearing
A roller bearing capable of effectively improving the service life of the roller bearing is provided by performing surface treatment with coating. A cylindrical roller bearing includes: an outer ring having an outer ring raceway surface; an inner ring having an inner ring raceway surface that faces the outer ring raceway surface; and a plurality of cylindrical rollers rollably disposed between the outer ring raceway surface and the inner ring raceway surface. The inner ring raceway surface of the inner ring is provided with a black oxidation coating, and a rolling contact surface of each cylindrical roller is provided with a diamond-like carbon coating. |
| US09011012B2 |
Bearing cap and bearing cap assembly
A bearing cap (11) fastened to a bulkhead (2) of a cylinder block (1) by bolts to support a crankshaft. A pair of protruding parts (25, 26) that enlarge a joint surface (12) between the bearing cap (11) and the bulkhead (2) in a transverse direction of the crankshaft are formed respectively in a pair of side surfaces (33, 34). A pair of reinforcing parts (35, 36) are positioned between a top surface (19) and the pair of protruding parts (25, 26), protrude from the pair of side surfaces (33, 34) in the transverse direction of the crankshaft, and have a protrusion length that is smaller than that of the pair of protruding parts (25, 26). The stress on the joint portion between the bearing cap (11) and the bulkhead (2) generated by the crankshaft during operation of the internal combustion engine is thereby reduced. |
| US09011010B2 |
Hybrid wind turbine blade bearing
Wind turbine blade pitch bearing device (1) adapted for rotational support of a turbine blade (9), having a first bearing unit (4, 5) and a second bearing unit (6, 7) coaxial to the first bearing unit. The first bearing unit (4, 5) and the second bearing unit (6, 7) are of different bearing types. By using two different bearing types, one bearing can be optimized for small and quick rotations and the other type can be optimized for larger and slower rotations. |
| US09011008B2 |
Radial foil bearing
The radial foil bearing (3, 20) includes, a cylindrical top foil (10, 21), a back foil (11) disposed on a radially outer side of the top foil (10, 21), and a cylindrical bearing housing (12, 25) accommodating the top foil (10, 21) and the back foil (11). The top foil (10, 21) is formed by winding a rectangular metal foil around a rotary shaft (1) in a circumferential direction thereof. The metal foil includes a first uneven portion (17a, 23a) which has a first projecting portion (15a, 22a) and a first depressed portion (16a, 23a) on a first side thereof, and a second uneven portion (17b, 24b) which has a second projecting portion (15b, 22b) and a second depressed portion (16b, 23b) on a second side opposite to the first side. The metal foil is wound in a cylindrical shape so that the first uneven portion (17a, 23a) and the second uneven portion (17b, 24b) overlap with each other. The first projecting portion (15a, 22a) and the second projecting portion (15b, 22b) are pulled out near the bearing housing (12, 25) through the second depressed portion (16b, 23b) and the first depressed portion (16a, 23a) respectively, and engage with engagement grooves (13, 26) formed on the inner circumferential surface of the bearing housing (12, 25). |
| US09011006B2 |
Bag with chuck tape
A bag 1 with a reclosable tape includes a reclosable tape 20 having a male fastener part 21 and a female fastener part 22 attached to one inner surface of a bag body 10, a cut tape 23 provided between mounting base parts 212 and 222 of those fastener parts, and an easily unsealable structure 50 formed on the mounting base part 212 adjacent to the cut tape 23 in an unsealing start part 30 of a side seal part 60 of the bag body. The easily unsealable structure 50 may be formed by: forming a hole portion 50a or a portion formed by a weak line on the mounting base part 212, arranging a thickness of the mounting base part 212 in the unsealing start part 30 so as to be thinner than other portions, or forming a non-adhesive part between the mounting base part 212 and the cut tape 23. |
| US09011005B2 |
Geotextile container
A geotextile container has a bag section, a cover section and a stuffing space. The bag section has a bag cloth, a bag non-woven fabric and a trapezoidal longitudinal section. The cover section is integrally connected with the bag section and has a cover cloth and a cover non-woven fabric. The stuffing space is formed inside the bag section and has a first margin portion. A longitudinal section of the stuffing space is trapezoidal. The first margin portion is formed at a side of a bottom of the stuffing space. The first margin portion can be immediately unfolded and contain filling materials once the geotextile container is projected into the sea. |
| US09011004B2 |
Flexible storage bag
A flexible storage bag defines an inner storage area within which is provided a flexible barrier. A user can select a first storage mode wherein the flexible barrier is positioned to one side such that only a single storage zone is available for storing products; or a dual storage mode wherein the barrier divides the storage area into first and second storage zones. The bag preferably includes an upper closure assembly having a loop extending therefrom to aid a user in sealing the bag, as well as potentially hanging the bag from a hook. The bag optionally includes a lower closure assembly on the flexible barrier for selectively sealing one of the multiple storage zones. Offset tabs may be provided to aid a user in opening the bag. In some embodiments, the bag includes a graphical image puzzle constituting multiple graphic images that combine to form a completed image. |
| US09011003B2 |
Reclosable pouch and zipper for a reclosable pouch
A reclosable pouch includes a body portion having first and second opposing sidewalls and a first web having a first portion attached to the first sidewall and a first unattached portion. The first web is disposed on an internal side of the first sidewall. The reclosable pouch further includes a second web having a second portion attached to the second sidewall and a second unattached portion. The second web is disposed on an internal side of the second sidewall. Additionally, the reclosable pouch includes a first closure mechanism having first and second closure profiles with the first closure profile disposed on the first web at the first attached portion and the second closure profile disposed on the second web at the second attached portion. Furthermore, the reclosable pouch includes a second closure mechanism having third and fourth closure profiles with the third closure profile disposed on the first web at the first unattached portion and the fourth closure profile disposed on the second web at the second unattached portion. |
| US09011002B2 |
Radiation generation unit
The present embodiments relate to a radiation generation unit for a therapy system. The radiation generation unit has a radiation source and support components for the radiation source. The radiation generation unit includes a power source and has a mechanical interface, with which the radiation generation unit may be attached to a stand. Degrees of freedom of movement may easily be implemented using a corresponding movement of the radiation generation unit. |
| US09011000B2 |
X-ray imaging apparatus
An X-ray imaging apparatus includes an X-ray sensor configured to convert an X-ray to an image signal, a supporting member configured to support the X-ray sensor, and a casing having the X-ray sensor and the supporting member incorporated therein, wherein the casing includes a front casing configured to cover a front surface of the X-ray imaging apparatus where an X-ray enters, and a rear casing configured to cover a rear surface opposite the front surface of the X-ray imaging apparatus, and wherein a recess is formed toward the exterior of the casings at the connection portion of the front casing and the rear casing. |
| US09010998B2 |
Overhead power connector integrity assessment by application of thermal history detectors
Systems and methods for monitoring the integrity of an overhead power connector are disclosed. The systems and methods may include applying a temperature sensitive material to at least a portion of an overhead power connector and/or an overhead power conductor. The integrity of the overhead connector may be monitored or diagnosed by monitoring the properties of the temperature sensitive material to determine if the overhead connector experienced any high temperature excursions. |
| US09010997B2 |
Electronic timepiece
Lubricating apparatuses (10, 20, 30, 40) that support the axes of a stator guide (70) and a rotor (50) fit into an opening of a stator (60) are separate components and by fitting the stator guide (70) and lubricating apparatuses (10, 20, 30, 40) into the cylindrically shaped opening of a constant diameter disposed in a bottom plate (80), a bearing can be configured that aligns the central axis of the opening of the stator (60) and the rotational axis of the rotor (50) with high precision. Additionally, the structure of the lubricating apparatus (10, 20, 30, 40) is simplified and configures an electronic timepiece that can use the bearing-less stator (60). |
| US09010996B2 |
Device for detecting and synchronising the position of a wheel of a timepiece mechanism
Device for detecting and synchronising the position of at least one first wheel (16) of a timepiece mechanism (1) for an electronic analogue watch, wherein this first wheel (16) extends in one plane, the detection and synchronisation device (30) comprises at least one light source (32) emitting a light beam (34) and at least one light detection system (36), and this detection and synchronisation device is characterised in that a first light-reflecting element (40) projects from one of the upper or lower surfaces of the first wheel (16) of the timepiece mechanism (1), wherein the light source (32) and the light detection system (36) are arranged so that in a determined position of the first wheel (16) of the timepiece mechanism (1), the light beam (34) emitted by the light source (32) is reflected by the first reflective element (40) in the direction of the light detection system (36). |
| US09010992B2 |
Mixing apparatus for frozen products
An apparatus for mixing frozen desserts has a mixing chamber, and a spindle with driving portion for rotating the spindle. The mixing chamber has two main parts having a funnel and a top chamber forming a closed mixing chamber when brought together. The spindle is accommodated through the top chamber. |
| US09010990B2 |
Shaft-actuated spindle mixer
The disclosed apparatus, system and method relate to a shaft-actuated spindle mixer where the spindle mixer includes a motor and at least one motor switch enclosed in a mixer housing. A spindle shaft extends from the housing and is mechanically connected to the motor. The motor is mounted to a moveable mixer component such that the spindle shaft can be displaced to thereby causing the associated movement of the enclosed motor and moveable mixer component to which the motor is mounted. Movement of the movable mixer component actuates a switch. Actuating the switch causes the selective activation of the mixer motor. Activating the mixer motor rotates the spindle shaft. The disclosed apparatus and method provide for the optional one-handed operation of a spindle mixer, eliminate the need for a user or a cup to directly contact a switch to engage the spindle mixer, and further provides for the sanitary operation of a spindle mixer. |
| US09010989B2 |
Container system
A method and system for providing a homogenized slurry output comprises a container body defining an interior portion, a discharge for supplying the slurry from the container body to a downstream source and at least one inlet in fluid communication with a pressurized supply of slurry for introducing the slurry into the interior portion of the container body in a circulation pattern that creates a homogenized mixture of slurry in the interior portion of the body. |
| US09010987B2 |
Method and an apparatus/universal combine for agitation of liquids
A method of mixing together liquids or liquid/solid combinations, and mixing apparatus/universal combine utilizing a vertical spinning container or vessel having a rib, or a cross rib in its bottom wall. The container is spun about a vertical axis with no wobbling component to the motion. Meshed elements are used for high shear mixing. Start/stop routines, and variable acceleration/speed values are used, to facilitate complete mixing. Use of ‘impeller’ blade stirrers is completely eliminated. |
| US09010981B2 |
Display device having auxiliary display region
A display device includes an exterior surface; a main emission region comprising a side edge when viewed in a viewing direction perpendicular to the exterior surface; and an auxiliary emission region next to the side edge when viewed in the viewing direction. The device further includes a light-guide plate disposed in the auxiliary emission region when viewed in the viewing direction; and a first light source disposed adjacent to the light-guide plate and configured to emit light in a first direction to supply the light to the light-guide plate. An imaginary straight line extending from the first light source in the first direction is tilted with respect to the side edge while not crossing the side edge. |
| US09010973B2 |
Motor vehicle headlight positioning device
A motor vehicle headlight positioning device consisting of a holder base, a headlight support, a step motor, a movable member and a swivel arm is disclosed. The headlight support is pivotally mounted in the holder base to hold a motor vehicle headlight. By means of the rotation of an output screw of the step motor to move the movable member linearly, the headlight support is rotatable by the movable member and the swivel arm to adjust the projecting direction of the motor vehicle headlight. As the output screw is rotated on its own axis and the output screw is supported in a support block of the holder base, the displacement stability of the movable member is enhanced. |
| US09010966B2 |
Optical array for LED bulb with thermal optical diffuser
An LED light bulb includes a thermally conductive base and at least one LED assembly disposed on the base. The LED assembly includes at least one LED configured to emit light. A thermal optical diffuser defines an interior volume of the LED light bulb. The LED is arranged to emit light into the interior volume and through the thermal optical diffuser. The thermal optical diffuser extends from the base to a terminus on a light emitting side of the LED assembly. The thermal optical diffuser includes one or more openings. An array of optical elements is disposed within the interior volume and is configured to focus the emitted light toward the openings. The thermal optical diffuser and the array of optical elements are arranged to allow convective air flow between the interior volume of the thermal optical diffuser and ambient environment. |
| US09010964B2 |
LED light bulb with interior facing LEDs
An LED light bulb includes a base, a light transmissive cover and upstanding light bars. The base is in electrical communication with a power source and has an axis and a periphery. The light transmissive cover is substantially mounted on the periphery. The upstanding light bars are mounted radially around the axis and located between the axis and the periphery. The upstanding light bars are arranged to substantially emit light inward to the axis. |
| US09010963B2 |
Lens member for directing light in a square pattern
A lens member for projecting light from an LED in a square pattern includes a body formed of a light transmissive material. The body includes a base portion and a bulbous-shaped, light-directing lens portion extending upwardly from the base portion. A recess extending upwardly from a lower surface of the base portion and into the bulbous-shaped, light-directing lens portion continuously tapers from the base to a flat, circular surface below a top surface of the bulbous-shaped, light-directing lens portion. The lens portion has a horizontal cross-sectional shape that is substantially square at elevations between the base and the top surface of the lens portion. |
| US09010962B2 |
Optical semiconductor lighting apparatus
An adjusting unit disposed between a housing including at least one or more semiconductor optical devices and a case accommodating an SMPS, so as to adjust the height of the casing. At least one or more light emitting modules are mounted on the bottom surface of the housing, and a position determining unit is disposed in the housing in correspondence to an edge of the light emitting module. A heat sink unit is provided in correspondence to the top surface of the housing. Therefore, transport costs can be significantly reduced by securing the loading space. The semiconductor optical devices serving as a light source can be appropriately arranged, and the semiconductor optical devices can be mounted at accurate positions. Furthermore, products can be rapidly mass-produced due to a simplified manufacturing process thereof. |
| US09010961B2 |
LED integrated packaging light source module
An LED integrated packaging light source module is provided, which includes a substrate, a plurality of bowl-shaped reflective cups is disposed on the substrate, a blue light LED chip or a red-light LED chip is disposed inside each reflective cup, the ratio between the number of the blue light LED chips and the number of the red-light LED chips on the substrate is 2:1, and a mixed colloid of yellow and green fluorescent powders is coated on the blue light LED chip. In the LED integrated packaging light source module, the bowl-shaped reflective cups set on a substrate, on one aspect, enhance the light emission efficiencies of the blue light LED chip and the red-light LED chip, and on another aspect, improve the heat dissipation of the blue light LED chip, so as to prevent the heat generated by the blue light LED chip from affecting the red-light LED chip, thereby enhancing the reliability of the entire integrated packaging light source module. |
| US09010955B2 |
Modular lighting system for retrofit to a welding shield
A lighting system retrofitted to a stock helmet with an interiorly fastened headband and a welding shield rotably mounted thereto includes a first light source mounted on an exterior surface of the welding shield, the welding shield adjustable to positions above and below the headband, a second light source mounted to the headband, a power source, a magnetic positional switching facility mounted on the exterior of the headband having electrical connection to the power source and the first and second light sources, a first positional sensor, and a second positional sensor, the first and second positional sensors mounted on the interior surface of the welding shield along an arcurate path defining the angular range of rotation of the welding shield relative to the magnetic positional switching facility. |
| US09010954B2 |
Glo-blades skates
A plurality of pairs of skates, where each skate has a blade or inline wheels and has a light bar for illuminating a skating surface, are wireless and remotely controlled. A remote controller, which includes an input device, determines the desired illumination characteristics of the pairs of skates and transmits wireless signals indicative of the desired illumination characteristics. Light controllers responsive to the wireless signals cause the desired illumination from the light bars of the skates. |
| US09010951B2 |
Optical lens, light emitting device, and display
An optical lens, light emitting device, and display are provided. The optical lens may include a flange comprising an upper surface and a bottom surface, a protruder that protrudes with respect to the bottom surface, a first surface that extends from the upper surface of the flange, and a second surface inwardly recessed toward the protruder. The first surface and the second surface may meet to form an outer rim of the optical lens. The first surface may be sloped with respect to an optical axis, which is a straight line that passes through a center of the protruder and a center of the second surface. A ratio of a longest straight-line distance between outermost edges of the flange taken across the flange to a shortest straight-line distance from a lowermost point of the protruder to a plane including the outer rim may be approximately 0.5 to 5. |
| US09010948B2 |
Photography lighting fixture
A photography lighting fixture includes a lighting device and a shade device. The lighting device includes a housing, a lighting element disposed in the housing, and a first attaching unit connected to the housing. The shade device includes a base mount, a plurality of shade components mounted pivotally to the base mount, and a second attaching unit mounted to the base mount and detachably and rotatably attaching the first attaching unit. |
| US09010946B1 |
Automobile mirror control system
A control system for mirror in a vehicle as well as a method for controlling the side minors of a vehicle are disclosed. The control system may include a processor module and a memory module as well as a control console. The control console may include a minor toggle switch, a minor control switch, and two sets of memory recall switches. The first set of memory recall switches may be associated with set side mirror positions in a first operation state of the vehicle, which could for instance occur when the vehicle is operating in a drive gear. The second set of memory recall switches may be associated with set side minor positions in a second operation state of the vehicle, which could for instance occur when the vehicle is operating in a reverse gear. |
| US09010944B2 |
Projection type image display apparatus
A projection type image display apparatus (1) comprises a focus correction system (30). The system includes a temperature detection mechanism (16) for measuring temperature in the vicinity of a projection lens group (13), a correction amount calculation unit (18) for calculating a correction amount for correcting the focus shift caused by a temperature change, and a driving signal generation unit (19) for generating, based on the correction amount, a driving signal for driving a focus adjustment mechanism (15). If the user performs a focus adjustment using a focus operation input unit (23), a focus operation determination unit (21) determines that a focus adjustment has occurred independently of the focus correction system and changes a correction condition stored in a memory (20). |
| US09010942B2 |
Mobile electronic device and image projection unit
According to an aspect, a mobile electronic device includes an image projecting unit and a processing unit. The image projecting unit projects an image to a projection area. The processing unit is configured to acquire information for a second image related to a first image placed in the projection area, and cause the image projecting unit to project the second image based on the information acquired. |
| US09010938B2 |
Projector with multiple different types of illumination devices
A projector according to an embodiment of the invention includes: an illumination device adapted to generate an illumination light; and a light modulation device adapted to modulate the illumination light in accordance with image information, wherein the illumination device includes a first illumination device including a fluorescence generation section adapted to generate a fluorescence from an excitation light generated by a first solid-state light source, and a second illumination device including a rod integrator optical system adapted to equalize an in-plane light intensity distribution of a colored light generated by a second solid-state light source. |
| US09010936B2 |
Optical MEMS scanning micro-mirror with anti-speckle cover
Optical MEMS scanning micro-mirror comprising: —a movable scanning micro-mirror (101), being pivotally connected to a MEMS body (102) substantially surrounding the lateral sides of the micro-mirror, —a transparent window (202) substantially covering the reflection side of the micro-mirror; —wherein a piezo-actuator assembly (500) and a layer of deformable transparent material (501) are provided on the outer portion of said window (202); —the piezo-actuator assembly (500) being arranged at the periphery of the layer of transparent material (501); —said piezo-actuator assembly (500) and transparent material (501) cooperating so that when actuated, the piezo-actuator assembly (500) causes micro-deformation of the transparent material (501), thereby providing an anti-speckle effect. The invention also provides the corresponding micro-projection system and method for reducing speckle. |
| US09010924B2 |
System and method for aligning duplex images using alignment marks
A system and method for adjusting a transport path length of a continuous web of recording media in a printing system printing duplex images. The method includes detecting alignment marks, for instance top of form (TOF) marks, on the continuous web of print media and adjusting the path length to provide substantially accurate registration of first and second images on opposite sides of the web for duplex imaging. The system to adjust path length includes idler rollers movable with respect to turnbar rollers. |
| US09010916B2 |
Ink composition, ink set, and image forming method
An ink composition of the present invention includes: cross-linked particles containing a quinacridone solid solution pigment including at least two types of quinacridone-based compound; a water-soluble polymerizable compound; a polymerization initiator; and water. By selectively using cross-linked solid solution pigments as pigments (colorants), along with excellent adhesion of the image, the stability over time of the ink composition itself is excellent. |
| US09010915B2 |
Aqueous ink composition and image forming apparatus
Disclosed is an aqueous ink composition, including an aqueous solvent, a coloring agent dissolved or dispersed in the aqueous solvent, an ABA-type amphipathic polymer including a hydrophobic segment A and a hydrophilic segment B, and an anionic surfactant configured to dissolve or disperse the ABA-type amphipathic polymer in the aqueous solvent, wherein a viscosity of the aqueous ink composition is changed depending on a pH thereof. |
| US09010914B2 |
Inkjet ink composition and inkjet recording method
An ink composition is provided that comprises at least (Component A-1) diethylene glycol monobutyl ether acrylate, (Component A-2) at least one compound selected from the group consisting of a compound represented by Formula (1), phenoxyethyl acrylate, isobornyl acrylate, 3,3,5-trimethylcyclohexyl acrylate, and 4-t-butylcyclohexyl acrylate, (Component A-3) an N-vinyllactam and/or tetrahydrofurfuryl acrylate, and (Component B) a polymerization initiator, Component A-1 having a content of 1 to 35 wt % of the entire ink composition, and Components A-1 to A-3 having a total content of 60 to 90 wt % of the entire ink composition wherein R1 denotes a hydrogen atom or a methyl group and X denotes a single bond or a divalent linking group. |
| US09010913B1 |
Ink cartridge
An ink cartridge includes a socket portion provided at one end of an ink storage container and configured to be fitted to and detached from a joint portion of a printing machine, an ink supply port provided in the socket portion, and an inner plug configured to seal an ink passage to the ink supply port in response to biasing force applied from a side of the ink storage container. An insertion shaft, provided in the joint portion, pressing the inner plug against the biasing force upon a fitting of the socket portion to the joint portion enables the ink passage to communicate with the ink supply port. An ink holding portion of the inner plug with the insertion shaft pulled out from the ink holding portion after inserted holds the ink near the ink supply port. |
| US09010909B2 |
Continuous inkjet printing method
A method of printing an image with a continuous inkjet printer system employing a jetting module including a nozzle in fluid communication with a liquid ink source and a catcher including a liquid drop contact face; wherein the liquid ink is an aqueous inkjet black ink comprising a black colorant and at least one surfactant selected to provide a 10-ms dynamic surface tension of less than 54 mN/m. Full color images may be printed by further employing at least second, third and fourth jetting modules and yellow, magenta and cyan inks each also comprising a surfactant selected to provide a 10-ms dynamic surface tension of less than 54 mN/m for each ink. The ink compositions provide for fluid properties on the drop catcher face that minimize printing defects that can occur during drop deflection during the printing of high dynamic range images at high speed. |
| US09010908B2 |
Liquid jet head, liquid jet apparatus, and method of manufacturing liquid jet head
A liquid jet head includes an actuator substrate having a plurality of elongated grooves arrayed from an upper surface to a lower surface thereof. The grooves are formed from a vicinity of a peripheral end on one side of the actuator substrate to a peripheral end the other side thereof, ends of the grooves in a longitudinal direction thereof have respective inclined surfaces rising from the lower surface to the upper surface of the actuator substrate, and a crossing angle at crossing portions at which the inclined surfaces and the lower surface cross each other is in a range of 3 degrees to 80 degrees. A width W of the inclined surfaces in the longitudinal direction thereof and a thickness D of the actuator substrate satisfy a relationship 0.2≦(W/D)≦11 at the ends on one side of the grooves. |
| US09010902B1 |
Print system, method for controlling print system, and storage medium
A detailed sheet bundle process may be efficiently performed even in a state in which a plurality of general sheet process apparatuses are connected. The print system capable of individually conveying sheets to a plurality of sheet process apparatuses, comprises: an obtaining unit configured to obtain waiting times in which conveyance of a sheet is to be waited between sheet bundles of the sheet process apparatuses and switching times required for switching a sheet discharge destination; a determination unit configured to determine whether a sheet process apparatus to be used is to be changed for every sheet bundle among the sheet process apparatuses in accordance with the waiting times and the switching times obtained by the obtaining unit; and a control unit configured to allow change of a sheet process apparatus to be used for every sheet bundle when the determination unit determines that a sheet process apparatus to be used is to be changed every sheet bundle. |
| US09010900B1 |
Color-to-color correction in a printing system
Methods and systems for performing color-to-color correction for printing multiple print jobs comprise receiving a first print job, wherein the first print job has one or more documents, receiving a second print job, wherein at least a portion of one of the documents in the second print job is different from a corresponding document in the first print job, and printing a copy of the first print job. One or more processors are used to determine a plurality of color plane registration errors produced during the printing of the copy of the first print job, local color plane correction values based on the plurality of color registration errors, and a difference between the corresponding documents in the first print job and second print job. When the amount of difference is less than a predetermined threshold, the local color plane correction values are used to print the second print job. |
| US09010899B2 |
Techniques for print ink volume control to deposit fluids within precise tolerances
An ink printing process employs per-nozzle droplet volume measurement and processing software that plans droplet combinations to reach specific aggregate ink fills per target region, guaranteeing compliance with minimum and maximum ink fills set by specification. In various embodiments, different droplet combinations are produced through different print head/substrate scan offsets, offsets between print heads, the use of different nozzle drive waveforms, and/or other techniques. Optionally, patterns of fill variation can be introduced so as to mitigate observable line effects in a finished display device. The disclosed techniques have many other possible applications. |
| US09010894B2 |
Liquid ejection device and liquid ejection method
A liquid ejection device includes a head unit and a control unit. A driving signal generating portion of the control unit is configured to create a driving signal having at least one wave portion for ejecting the liquid from the nozzles. A signal converting portion of the control unit is configured to convert plural types of original control signals including an original latching signal and an original printing data signal into a single serial control signal having a serial form. A signal restoring portion of the head unit is configured to create plural types of restored control signals from the serial control signal received, the restored control signals including a restored latching signal and a restored printing data signal. The nozzles are configured and arranged to eject the liquid based on the driving signal, the restored latching signal, and the restored printing data signal. |
| US09010891B2 |
Systems and methods for in-line gel ink mixing
Systems and methods for controlling ink component concentration for optimizing ink for use on specific media types, such as paper or plastic, include an in-line ink delivery system for mixing and delivering ink. The ink delivery system includes a first ink supply, a second ink supply, a mixing chamber or pot, and a print head connected to a print head reservoir. The ink delivery system may be configured to mix ink according to one of stored setpoints or acquired media data for media on which ink is to be printed. |
| US09010885B2 |
Cabinet table
A cabinet table has a cabinet body, a front face, an interior box, and a sliding mechanism permitting the interior box to slide out of the cabinet body. The front face is connected to the interior box and has a top front face and a bottom front face. The interior box has a plurality of table components which are moveable into a table surface. |
| US09010882B2 |
Debris guard for a wheel assembly
A wheel assembly with a debris guard is disclosed, the debris guard being configured to prevent hair and thread from winding around an axle and interfering with the operation of the wheel. The debris guard, which is mounted between the wheel and the robot chassis, comprises a spool and a plurality of tines. The spool is positioned between the wheel and chassis to collect debris that would otherwise wind around the axle. In the preferred embodiment, the tines are arrayed in proximity to a gap between the debris guard and the hub in order to inhibit debris from migrating to the axle exposed between the guard and wheel. The debris guard is intended for a wide variety of wheeled devices. |
| US09010879B2 |
Pre-fill system to improve brake feel and method of increasing initial flux using the same
Disclosed herein are a pre-fill system to improve brake feel and a method of increasing an initial flux using the same which may reduce an invalid travel distance of a brake pedal.The pre-fill system includes a first housing connected with the master cylinder and provided with a first bore having a smaller-diameter portion and a larger-diameter portion, a second housing provided with a stepped second bore communicating with the first bore to be coupled with the first housing to define a hydraulic pressure chamber, a piston arranged in the first bore and provided with an oil channel unit, and a valve assembly adapted to open and close the oil channel unit of the piston according to the hydraulic brake pressure, wherein the piston applies pressure to the hydraulic pressure chamber through the piston to supply hydraulic pressure to the disc brake. |
| US09010878B2 |
Brake apparatus for motorcycle
A brake apparatus that can achieve front-rear distribution in accordance with a traveling environment variation. At an intermediate point from a start point of a second mode, first interval to an end point of a second mode, second interval, the increasing rate of braking force for a front wheel with respect to an operation amount is changed. The increasing rate of the operation amount prior to the intermediate point can be represented by a first inclination of a curve while the increasing rate of the operation amount after the intermediate point is represented by a second inclination of the curve. The first inclination is less than the second inclination. Setting the increasing rate after an intermediate point to be higher than the increasing rate before the intermediate point, the vehicle body generation deceleration can be caused to increase in a linear proportion to the operation amount. |
| US09010872B2 |
Tunnel boring machine with cutterhead support assembly supporting a variable number of drive systems
A tunnel boring machine (100) includes a cutterhead assembly (102) rotatably mounted to a forward shield assembly (116) through a cutterhead support assembly (110). The cutterhead support assembly is configured to receive a variable number of drive assemblies (105), such that the number of drive assemblies may be selected after fabricating the cutterhead support structure (120). The cutterhead support structure includes a housing portion (121) that houses the main bearing assembly (101) and a drive gear (104). A plurality of drive mount stations (111) provide access to the drive gear, and are provided with a pinion housing (130) for stations that receive a drive assembly, or with a cradle cover (140) for stations that do not receive a drive assembly. |
| US09010868B1 |
Seat belt spacing device
A seat belt spacing device holds a seat belt in spaced relationship to a person to prevent the belt from wrinkling clothes worn by the person. The device includes a medial member and a first bracket coupled to and extending from a first face of the medial member. The first bracket defines a first slot positioned in spaced relationship to the first face configured for receiving a shoulder portion of a seat belt therein. A second bracket is coupled to and extends from a second face of the medial member. The second bracket defines a second slot positioned in spaced relationship to the second face. The second slot is configured for receiving a lap portion of the seat belt therein. Thus, the shoulder portion of the seat belt is retained in spaced relationship to the lap portion of the seat belt. |
| US09010864B2 |
Wheelchair back mounting assembly
A support mechanism (20) for mounting a wheelchair back to a wheelchair post including at least one generally horizontally extending support pin (30), the support mechanism (20) comprising a hanger arm (24) having a downwardly opening hook (26) defining an upper support point and a self-locking latch (34) pivotally mounting to the hanger arm (24), the latch defining a locking notch (40) and a stop notch (42), the latch (34) being pivotal between a locked position in which the latch locking notch (40) and the hook (26) define a substantially closed hole around the support pin (30) and an unlocked position in which the pin (30) is seated in the stop notch (42) such that the latch (34) is secured open so the hanger arm hook (26) can be connected to or removed from the wheelchair post support pin (30); the latch (34) is shaped and weighted such that the latch can be moved to the locked position under the force of gravity. |
| US09010863B2 |
Bus seating system
An interchangeable passenger seat for a vehicle having a seat-mounting surface includes a base frame having at least one end member attachable to the seat-mounting surface of the vehicle, and at least one cross-member extending generally perpendicularly from the end member. At least one back frame is removably attachable to the base frame. An adaptor bracket is disposed around the cross-member. The adaptor bracket has a plurality of locating structure along the length of the adaptor bracket for selectively locating and attaching components of passenger restraint systems. |
| US09010862B2 |
Seat frame structure
A seat frame structure includes a first mechanism element; a second mechanism element; a bolt shaft; and a seat frame that has a fitting portion that fits together with the first mechanism element, and a hole through which the bolt shaft passes, the seat frame being sandwiched between the first mechanism element and the second mechanism element, and integrated with the first mechanism element and the second mechanism element by fastening of the bolt shaft in the hole in a state extending between the first mechanism element and the second mechanism element. The first mechanism element has a fitting portion that fits together with the seat frame, and the second mechanism element is integrally assembled, by the fastening of the bolt shaft, to the first mechanism element in a state positioned on the seat frame by the fitting of the each fitting portion. |
| US09010861B2 |
Swivel ingress vehicle seat
The present invention is directed to a vehicle seat that pivots to allow easy ingress and egress and in particular to a vehicle seat that manually pivots in conjunction with linear movement to allow easy ingress and egress to seating located behind the pivoting seat. |
| US09010860B2 |
Vehicle seat device
A vehicle seat device is provided with a first lock mechanism which restricts a first movement of the seat, a second lock mechanism which restricts a second movement of the seat, and a drive source which removes the restrictions imposed by the first and second lock mechanisms. The drive source is provided with an output section which can be driven in two directions, that is, in the forward direction and the reverse direction, by the drive source. The drive of the output section in the forward direction from the neutral position thereof removes the restriction imposed by the first lock mechanism, and the drive of the output section in the reverse direction from the neutral position thereof removes the restriction imposed by the second lock mechanism. |
| US09010857B2 |
Child safety seat
A child safety seat includes a seat body, a support foot and an angle adjusting mechanism. Two support ribs are disposed at opposite sides of a bottom of the seat body. Each of the support ribs includes a front support end and a rear support end. The support foot is disposed between the two support ribs and pivotally connected to the two support ribs. The angle adjusting mechanism selectively adjusts and fixes the support ribs and the seat body such that one of the front support end and the rear support end supports the seat body on the vehicle seat along with the support foot. Accordingly, the child safety seat of the invention is capable of adjusting an angle of the seat body and supporting the seat body securely. |
| US09010844B2 |
Vehicle body front structure
A vehicle body front structure is provided. In the vehicle body front structure, a front grille and a bumper extend in the up-and-down direction in a front end portion of the vehicle body, the bumper bends and extends rearwardly from the front grille, a front end edge of a front hood is positioned adjacent to a top end portion of the extending bumper, a frame upper portion that supports a radiator extends in the body width direction and is supported on the back side of a front end portion of the front hood, and a box-like hollow impact absorber, which is made of sheet metal and extends in the body width direction, is provided in a space surrounded by the front grille, the bumper, the front end portion of the front hood, and the frame upper portion, and is supported by the frame upper portion via a plurality of legs. |
| US09010834B2 |
Cargo management system for a vehicle and including a pair of opposing cargo trim panels, each of which is made by a composite, compression molding process and has a wood grain finish
A cargo management system including a vehicle load floor and a pair of opposing cargo trim panels supported above the load floor at opposite sides of the load floor within the interior of the vehicle is provided. The vehicle load floor compartmentalizes a cargo area into an upper compartment and a covered lower compartment. The load floor has a wood grain finish. The trim panels are compression-molded, composite cargo trim panels supported above the vehicle load floor at opposite sides of the load floor within the interior of the vehicle to at least partially define the upper compartment of the cargo area. Each panel includes a base layer and a coverstock sheet bonded to the base layer by press molding. Each coverstock sheet provides its respective trim panel with a wood grain finish in the upper compartment of the cargo area. |
| US09010833B2 |
Wear resistant lining element and method for disengaging material
The invention relates to a wear-resistant lining element which is intended for a surface on a truck haul body subjected to wear. The wear-resistant lining element has an outwardly directed surface, over which material in the form of pieces or particles, such as crushed ore and crushed rock material, is intended to move, and has an inwardly directed surface intended to face the truck haul body surface. The wear-resistant lining element comprises elastomeric material. The wear-resistant lining element is characterized in that the wear-resistant lining element comprises at least one open cavity in the inwardly directed surface. The invention also relates to a wear-resistant lining, a truck haul body and a method for disengaging material adherent on a truck haul body surface having a wear-resistant lining. |
| US09010832B2 |
Multi-piece vehicle tank enclosure
A multi-piece tank enclosure comprises a horizontal cover and a vertical panel removably connected to each other and to the vehicle body such that they form a space for enclosing a tank that is mounted on the vehicle body. The horizontal cover can comprise an assembly formed by a lid and a toolbox bin, and the vertical panel can be provided with an opening for accessing the tank fittings. The multi-piece tank enclosure can be installed on a vehicle by removably attaching the horizontal cover and the vertical panel to the vehicle body. The multi-piece tank enclosure can accommodate toolbox bins of different sizes, each matched to a different sized tank. |
| US09010825B2 |
Closure apparatus and method of using same
An apparatus for closing opened packaging includes a base having an upper surface and a lower surface, a strap attached to the base, and two complementary handle sections attached to the base. The handle sections extend upwardly from the upper surface of the base, and together form a grippable handle. A space exists between the handle sections to receive the strap therethrough. The handle sections can be releasably attached to each other. |
| US09010824B2 |
Cargo strap with handle
A cargo strap with carrying handle and mechanism for securing the cargo strap around a load. A first end of the cargo strap is preferably removably anchored to the strap securing mechanism by a clevis pin that permits rapid and easy disconnection of the first end of the cargo strap from the strap securing mechanism. The second end of the cargo strap is retained within the strap securing mechanism and prevented from removal therefrom by a stop proximate the second end of the cargo strap. The stop is preferably constructed as a loop formed in the second end of the cargo strap and sewn to the strap with a strap flap portion intermediate the second end of the cargo strap and the strap securing mechanism. The strap securing mechanism preferably has either a ratchet style mechanism with a reel or a modified cam buckle mechanism. |
| US09010823B1 |
Socket organizer
A socket organizer includes a planar member having a plurality of recessions to receive various sized tool elements, such as sockets. A portion of the planar member is magnetized to enable the device the ability to securely, but removably, retain each socket when placed into an individual recession. The planar member is rotatingly secured to a support stand. A mechanical connection between the planar member and support stand is provided with a series of detents to enable a user to rotate the planar member to a desired position for access to a particular socket held within the device. |
| US09010819B2 |
Removable specimen gripper fingers
Systems and methods for gripper finger release assemblies for specimen gripper units are disclosed. Embodiments of the invention include release elements to enable replacement of gripper fingers without the need of tools or without the need to demount and mount the entire gripper unit for exchange of gripper fingers. A release element may comprise a first sliding element and a second sliding element coupled to a plate such that pressing the second sliding element enables the first sliding element to release a gripper finger coupled to the first sliding element. |
| US09010818B2 |
Single handle post hole digger
The present invention is directed to a single handle post hole digger. The single handle of the post hole digger includes an outer elongated vertical handle and an inner elongated vertical shaft that is located within the outer handle. The post hole digger includes two blades used to cut into the ground and to loosen soil when open and then used to capture and remove soil when closed. The single handle configuration allows for deeper holes as the holes do not have to accommodate the opening action of the handles as in traditional diggers. |
| US09010817B2 |
Lens holder apparatus and system and method
An apparatus for safely retaining an eye implant lens for transport and access for inspection and use in which a holding apparatus has a chamber for holding a lens. In one embodiment the chamber has a pin on which a lens can be placed and a ramp leading to the pin so that a gripping member can slide up the ramp into proper placement to grip the lens and remove it. The gripper can be configured so that after removing the lens from the holding apparatus, it can be used to implant the lens. Also, a system including the apparatus and a bottle assembly that will hold the apparatus in the bottle. A method for holding an eye implant lens in which a lens is placed in the apparatus which can then be placed in a bottle assembly. |
| US09010816B1 |
Safety gate latch
Bonded or slide on sleeve and cover devices, and replacement gate latches and methods for preventing injury with oar, fork and U-shaped gate latches that are pivotally attached to fixed support post next to an opening in a fence. The sleeves and covers and replacement oar, fork and U-shaped gate latches have enlarged blunt tips that can include bulbous, dome and ball shapes that prevent injury from children or adults that come into contact with the gate latches. |
| US09010815B2 |
Anti-theft system
An anti-theft system for securing a removable battery to a power tool. The system employs a tamper-proof retainer to ensure that the retail display of a combined power tool and its associated battery can be displayed as a single unit without fear of theft of the battery. This may be achieved by the tamper-proof retainer securing a battery release latch against its release position hence securing the battery to the tool in a manner preventing the removal of the battery by a potential thief. The tamper-proof retainer either prevents removal of the battery from the power tool, as removal of the tamper-proof retainer is impossible, or, if it is destroyed by a thief, then it permanently secures the battery to the power tool. |
| US09010814B2 |
Quick fill fluid connector
A fluid connector having a longitudinal axis and selective open and closed conditions, the connector only in its closed condition adapted to threadedly engage a mating fluid fitting. The fluid connector includes an elongate conduit member extending along the longitudinal axis, an annular collar disposed about and having axial movement relative to the conduit member between the connector open and closed conditions, and a plurality of split nut members circumferentially distributed about the conduit member and having axial movement relative to the collar between the connector open and closed conditions. The plurality of split nut members and the collar are jointly rotatably about the longitudinal axis, and each split nut member has a distal end defining a threaded nut segment. The split nut member distal ends in the connector closed condition are constrained by the collar against radially separating movement relative to the longitudinal axis and cooperatively define a nut configured to threadedly engage a mating fluid fitting. The split nut member distal ends in the connector open condition have an expanded configuration in which, relative to the connector closed condition, they are radially separated from the longitudinal axis and not cooperatively positioned to threadedly engage a mating fluid fitting. |
| US09010810B2 |
Conduit connection with non-wetted strain sensor
Apparatus and method for mechanically attached connections of conduits may include a conduit gripping member, a drive member, and a seal member, the drive member causing axial movement of the conduit gripping member to indent into an outer surface of the conduit when the assembly is pulled-up, the drive member causing the seal member to form a zero clearance seal at a location that is axially spaced from the conduit gripping member. The zero clearance seal may comprise a face seal arrangement including a gasket, and the conduit gripping member may be a ferrule, ring or other device that can grip and optionally seal against the conduit outer surface. The assembly may include a sensing function for detecting or sensing a characteristic or condition of an assembly component or the fluid or both. In one embodiment, a body coupling member has a two piece construction of a main body and a conduit socket insert. A flared fitting embodiment is also provided. Sensing functions are also incorporated into fittings other than just zero clearance fittings. |
| US09010806B2 |
Steering system
In a steering system, a first through-hole is formed in a stationary bracket secured to vehicle body. A second through-hole is formed in a movable bracket that is movable relative to the stationary bracket in a prescribed direction at the time of a secondary collision. A pin passed through both the first through-hole and the second through-hole breaks at a position between the first through-hole and the second through-hole at the time of the secondary collision, thereby allowing the movable bracket to move relative to the stationary bracket. An under plate attached to the movable bracket closes the second through-hole from below. |
| US09010804B2 |
Airbag assemblies with constrained stabilizer straps
An airbag assembly can include a stabilizer strap attached to an airbag, and the stabilizer strap can cooperate with a housing to prevent undesired rotation or skewing of the airbag during deployment. A portion of the stabilizer strap can be positioned at an interior of the housing and can interact with the housing to restrict an amount of the stabilizer strap that is permitted to extend to an exterior of the housing. |
| US09010803B2 |
Duplex firing inflator
A duplex firing inflator structural component and related assemblies are provided. The component includes a molded element that contains a duplex firing initiator assembly including a primary initiator operatively associated with a primary pyrotechnic output composition and a secondary initiator operatively associated with a secondary pyrotechnic output composition. The component also includes a single connector in electrical operative association with the primary and the secondary initiators. |
| US09010802B2 |
Inflator having a mechanically coupled two-piece housing
An inflator including an initiator and a bulkhead molded around the initiator. The inflator includes a housing formed of two overlapping housing portions mechanically coupled together around a portion of the bulkhead. One of the housing portions includes cut tabs that are crimped into cut receivers of the other housing portion. |
| US09010800B1 |
Interior panels having integrated airbag doors for motor vehicles and methods for making the same
Interior panels having integrated airbag doors for motor vehicles and methods for making such interior panels are provided herein. In one example, a method of making an interior panel comprises the steps of welding one or more first weld features of a perimeter flange of an airbag chute-door assembly to a substrate to attach the perimeter flange to the substrate. The one or more first weld features are elongated extending in a first direction. One or more second weld features of a perimeter flange section bracket are welded to the substrate to attach the airbag chute-door assembly to the substrate. The one or more second weld features are elongated extending in a second direction that is generally transverse to the first direction. |
| US09010796B2 |
Adjustable pintle mount adapter bracket
The Adjustable Pintle Mount Adapter Bracket is a device capable of attaching a pintle and a weight distribution shank at varying heights. The pintle and weight distribution shank are attached on opposite sides of the bracket. The unique adjustability of the design is accomplished through a series of holes and easily removable pins which thread through the holes in the bracket and the weight distribution shank. The invention comprises of a series of components which are combined through welding. |
| US09010794B2 |
Universal fit fifth wheel trailer safety device
A trailer safety device is provided having two attachment legs that are mounted to frame rails of a towing vehicle. The attachment legs are mounted behind a hitch using U-bolts. The legs continue rearward of the vehicle and meet to form a catch. Failure of the hitch causes a trailer kingpin to become disengaged from the towing vehicle and travel rearward. Rearward travel of the trailer will cause the kingpin to become ensnared on the catch. |
| US09010791B2 |
Locking device for locking together two slidably mounted tubes
The invention relates to a locking device (5) for locking together a first tube (2) and a second tube (3), the first tube being slidably received in the second tube, the locking device comprising at least one rod (10) mounted to move into two positions and a cam system made up of at least two cams (6, 7, 8, 9) that are mounted on the first tube to pivot either into a first position in which the cams are not in contact with the second tube and allow the first tube to slide inside the second tube, or into a second position in which each of the cams exerts pressure on the inside face of the second tube and prevents the first tube from sliding inside the second tube. The rod is assembled with the cam system and is configured so that it at least moves the cams into their first position, a repositioning system being configured to return said cams into their second position. The invention also relates to a bicycle (1) equipped with such a locking device (5) arranged between a saddle post (2) and a saddle tube (3). |
| US09010789B1 |
Head parts assembly for a bicycle
A head parts assembly for a bicycle includes two bowls, a plurality of inserting members, two bead nests, and two end caps. The two bowls each are a circular structure and include a pipe-inserting hole, and a plurality of cable-inserting holes around the pipe-inserting hole. Each of the bowls further includes a receiving cavity in communication with the pipe-inserting holes, and the two bowls are disposed at two ends of the front frame pipe. The inserting members each are a hollow tubular structure with a cable hole for insertion of cables of the bicycle, and are screwed in the cable-inserting holes. The bead nests are rotatably disposed in the receiving cavities and abutted against the close ends, respectively. The two end caps are disposed in the open ends of the receiving cavities, and capable of rotating by abutting against the balls of the bead nests. |
| US09010784B2 |
Suspension mechanism
A suspension unit is disclosed having a hanger having a front face with an aperture and a control arm having a front face with an aperture. The control arm is pivotally attached to and depends from the hanger such that the front face of the hanger and the front face of the control arm are opposed one another with the aperture on the front face of the hanger being aligned with the aperture on the front face of the control arm. A jounce spring and a rebound spring are coaxially mounted to a shaft. The shaft is mounted through the apertures and springs. The rebound spring is positioned between the front faces of the hanger and the control arm and the jounce spring is positioned horizontally to one side of both the hanger and the control arm with the shaft in a horizontal orientation. |
| US09010782B2 |
Vehicle with a four bar link suspension system provided with improved roll characteristics
The present invention relates to a vehicle and a method for improving the roll characteristics of a vehicle. The vehicle includes an axle, a sprung mass, a first control arm, a second control arm, a third control arm, a first pivotable joint, a second pivotable joint, a third pivotable joint, and a fourth pivotable joint. The torsional stiffness of the first control arm, the second control arm, the first pivotable joint, the second pivotable joint, the third pivotable joint, and the fourth pivotable joint are substantially equal to or greater than the torsional stiffness of the axle, whereby the axle bends and twists during a sprung mass roll event in order to limit an amount of roll. |
| US09010781B2 |
Steering knuckle for a vehicle
A steering knuckle to be used with the steering assembly of a vehicle such as a farming tractor is disclosed. The steering knuckle comprises several preconfigured attachment areas where attachment element(s) or bracket(s) can be releasably yet rigidly secured. The attachment areas may be further reinforced with additional knuckle material (e.g. metal, metallic alloy). The steering knuckle therefore provides predetermined and preconfigured attachment locations where a wheel-replacing track system can be secured, thereby allowing the track system to be mounted to the vehicle while avoiding attachment at inconvenient or weak locations. |
| US09010779B1 |
Apparatus for lifting, stabilizing, and mobilizing an elderly or disabled person
In one embodiment, an elderly assistance apparatus comprises a frame, wheels, and a lever mechanism. The lever is comprised of caregiver leverage handles, patient lifts, and a fulcrum. In another embodiment the elderly assistance apparatus may comprise patient stabilizers. In one embodiment, the stabilizers are mounted crutches. |
| US09010774B2 |
Raiser for skidpan practice with motorcycle and device comprising such a raiser
The invention relates to a raiser (2) for skidpan practice with motorcycle, comprising a supporting portion (3) with support wheels (5a-c) and a raising portion (6). The raising portion (6) is attachable to the front wheel of the motorcycle in such a way that it allows the front wheel to rotate around a first rotational axis. The raising portion is raisable and lowerable with respect to the supporting portion. The raising portion is rotatable around a second axis of rotation that essentially extends in the direction of motion of the front wheel, allowing the raiser to be used with motorcycles as they lean sideways in curves. In one embodiment, the second axis of rotation of the raiser is arranged below the upper end of the supporting wheels or below the rotational axes of the supporting wheels. This may for example be achieved if the supporting portion (3) is constituted by a supporting frame (3) receiving the front wheel and if the support wheels (5a-c) are mounted on support wheel carriers (11a-c) that extend upwards above the supporting frame (3). The invention further relates to a device for skidpan practice with a motorcycle, comprising a pair of supports (12a-b) that prevents the motorcycle from falling over, and such a raiser (2). |
| US09010770B2 |
Adjustable chassis system
Various embodiments, aspects and features of the present invention encompass a system and method for an adjustable chassis system (“ACS”) that may be removably fixed to a payload object so that transport of the object across rough or uneven terrain is made less burdensome. Notably, some embodiments of an ACS may be integral to a given payload object. Certain embodiments of an adjustable chassis system advantageously do not include axles, yet may be raised or lowered to adjust ground clearance of the chassis and payload object. Moreover, certain embodiments of an ACS may be easily disassembled or collapsed for compact storage. Yet another advantage of certain ACS embodiments is that, by virtue of the independent side-to-side height adjustment, a payload object carried by the ACS may serve as a level seat or work surface over inclined or uneven ground. |
| US09010762B2 |
Low-friction seal ring with inexpensive diamond coating
The present invention refers to a seal ring for a mechanical seal, comprising: a base body (2) with a diamond layer (3) which is applied to the base body (2) and configured as a sliding surface, wherein the diamond layer (3) has a thickness (D) which is less than or equal to 4 μm, particularly less than or equal to 3 μm, particularly less than or equal to 2 μm, particularly preferably about 1 μm, and wherein the base body (2) is without fissures or only comprises fissures that have a maximum longitudinal extension (L) on a surface of the base body (2) or in the base body (2) that is less than or equal to 5 μm. |
| US09010761B2 |
Redundant seal apparatus and method
An apparatus includes a rotatable shaft having a shaft surface and a first seal disposed in a sealing engagement with the shaft surface. At least a second seal is disposed in a first position relative to the rotatable shaft where the second seal is not in sealing engagement with the shaft surface and is movable to a second position relative to the rotatable shaft where the second seal is in sealing engagement with the shaft surface. |
| US09010760B2 |
Target apparatus utilizing laser light to actuated target advancement with a supportive backing allowing targets of inexpensive or recycled roll paper
Shooters must presently take their firearms out of their hands to then manually actuate a new target into shooting position. This Target Apparatus will allow the shooter to shine his laser light, infrared light, flashlight, or multi-spectrum light onto a Target Apparatus-mounted sensor that engages a drive means mounted upon the target frame that then forwards a new target into position without removing the firearm from its' shooting position. The unit also uses a unique target backing material that does not require targets to be made of rolls of coated or heavy material stock. The system can utilize rolls of cash register paper, cut sections of gift wrapping paper, hand towel rolls, or even paper towels as target materials without snagging and preventing the next target from being presented. |
| US09010759B2 |
Drinking game cup or attachment with magnetic alignment pad
The present invention generally relates to drinking games and apparatuses for the use therewith. Specifically, this invention relates to an improved drinking game component and cup alignment apparatus for use with various drinking games. The drinking game cup or attachment and cup alignment apparatus may be designed in such a manner as to allow for simplified, accurate and reliable positioning of one or more drinking cups on a playing surface. |
| US09010757B2 |
Target and spherical object receiver
A target and object receiving device that includes a base portion having an outer edge and a lower coupling area disposed on a top surface of the base portion. An upper portion is spaced vertically from the base portion and includes an outer edge and an upper coupling area disposed on a bottom surface of the upper portion. A separator extends vertically from the lower coupling area to the upper coupling area. Either: (a) the top surface of the base portion approaches the bottom surface of the upper portion as the top surface extends from the outer edge of the base portion toward the lower coupling area; or (b) the bottom surface of the upper portion approaches the top surface of the base portion as the bottom surface of the upper portion extends from the outer edge of the base portion toward the upper coupling area. |
| US09010753B2 |
Sheet processing apparatus and image forming system
A sheet processing apparatus including a stacking tray that stacks sheets, a conveying member that conveys a sheet to the stacking tray and discharges the sheet bundle from the stacking tray, wherein the conveying member includes a conveying roller and a conveying belt stretched by a plurality of stretch rollers, and a sheet processor that performs predetermined processing to the sheet bundle. When the conveying member conveys the sheet to the stacking tray, a part of the conveying belt that is not wound on the stretch roller contacts the conveying roller by moving the conveying belt as such a nip for conveying the sheet is formed. When the conveying member discharges the sheet bundle from the stacking tray, a part of the conveying belt that is wound on the stretch roller contacts the conveying roller by moving the conveying belt so that a nip for conveying the sheet is formed. |
| US09010752B2 |
Image forming apparatus
An object of the present invention is to cool a sheet discharged onto an output sheet stacking surface while keeping the sheet from floating up. |
| US09010751B2 |
Sheet feed devices and image recording apparatus comprising such sheet feed devices
A sheet feed device has a tray with holding surface for holding sheets, a feed unit for feeding sheets from the tray, and a separation plate. The separation plate has an inclined surface and two or more separation portions that separate a sheet from the sheets held in the tray. At least one of the separation portions projects a first distance from the inclined surface. The separation plate also has a projection positioned on the inclined surface that projects a second distance from the inclined surface. The second distance is greater than the first distance. A first of the separation portions is positioned upstream of the particular projection in the sheet feed direction, and a second of the separation portions positioned downstream of the particular projection in the sheet feed direction. |
| US09010743B2 |
Sheet stacking apparatus
When information about weight of a sheet indicates weight less than a predetermined weight, a sheet stacking apparatus configured to align sheets to be stacked on a stacking tray discharges the sheet onto the stacking tray while overlapping the sheet with another sheet by an overlapping unit, and, when the information about the weight of the sheet indicates weight not less than the predetermined weight, the sheet stacking apparatus discharges the sheet onto the stacking tray without overlapping the sheet with another sheet by the overlapping unit. |
| US09010731B2 |
Height adjusting device for vehicle suspension seat
A height adjusting device for a vehicle suspension seat includes: a control valve having an air injection pin and an air discharge pin formed therein; a first push support having one end rotatably coupled to the control valve and pressurizing the air injection pin when rotated in one direction; a second push support having one end rotatably coupled to the control vale, pressurizing the air discharge pin when rotated in one direction, and disposed to correspond to the first push support; a first push rod pressurizing the other end of the first push support so as to rotate the first push support; and a second push rod pressurizing the other end of the second push support so as to rotate the second push support, and disposed to correspond to the first push rod. |
| US09010729B2 |
Membrane valve
A membrane valve comprising a first and a second valve housing part and a membrane clamped between the valve housing parts comprises a peripherally surrounding bead on the membrane and a thin, axially movable membrane portion adjacent thereto. The bead is supported by the two valve housing parts and is provided with an undercut at a radial inner side. Further, a membrane for installation in a membrane valve is provided. |
| US09010727B2 |
Valve stem assembly for rotary valve and method
A valve body defines a valve stem opening. A valve stem comprises an enlarged portion greater than the valve stem opening to thereby secure the valve stem within the valve body by limiting radially outward movement of the valve stem with respect to the valve body. A rotary member comprise upper and lower bosses. Upper and lower split trunnions, with split components that can be inserted from opposite sides of the valve body, are used to rotationally support the upper and lower bosses to permit rotation of the rotary member while preventing axial movement of the axial flow path of the valve. |
| US09010726B2 |
Reduced length actuation system
A technique provides a component actuation system in a space efficient form. A movable actuator member may be positioned within a corresponding housing in a manner which forms an annulus between the movable actuator member and the surrounding wall of the housing. A spring is located in the annulus and is designed such that the spring extends part way along a circumference of the actuator member to create an open annular region between circumferential ends of the spring. The open annular region provides space for a system related component without requiring additional longitudinal or radial space. |
| US09010720B2 |
Thermally compensated valve trim apparatus
Thermally compensated valve trim apparatus are disclosed. An example valve trim apparatus includes a valve plug having a recess, an insert fixed in the recess and having an opening therein. The insert is made of a material having a greater strength than a second material of the valve plug. The example valve trim apparatus also includes a valve stem having a threaded end disposed in the opening of the insert to form a valve stem connection, and a spacer operatively coupled to the valve plug and vale stem to affect a load exerted on the valve stem connection in response to a change in temperature. |
| US09010715B2 |
Mast
This disclosure relates to a mast having an elongated arm movable between a deployed position and a service position. The elongated arm is attached by a rotatable hub. A receiver is spaced from the hub and configured to selectively prevent rotation of the mast. |
| US09010714B2 |
Apparatus for supporting an electronic device
An apparatus for supporting an electronic device includes a primary support member. Secondary support components at each end of the primary support member may rest upon spaced apart parallel upper surfaces of a device such as a bath tub. An assembly for receiving an electronic device is mounted on the primary support member. An electronic device such as an e-reader or a tablet computer is supported and protected by the apparatus. A transparent front panel extends upwardly in front of the electronic device but does not cover the entire touch screen of the electronic device to allow access to a top portion of the touch screen to turn pages of a displayed file. The transparent front panel may be hinged to pivot to a horizontal orientation to support a keyboard and allow access to the entire screen of the electronic device. |
| US09010713B2 |
Seat track locking system for vehicle
A seat track for a vehicle which can be adjusted forward and backward, in more detail, a seat track locking system for a vehicle which includes a plurality of locks for fixation or movement of the track that are spaced from each other by a half of a pitch thereby finely adjusting the seat track while maintaining the existing fixing-strength of the seat track. The seat track locking system for a vehicle having the configuration described above has an effect of ensuring strength against shock and load when the seat track is fixed, and allowing fine adjustment when the seat is adjusted forward and backward. |
| US09010712B2 |
Sliding easy entry release mechanism with rest in full rear position
A seat track assembly for moving a seat assembly includes a fixed track and a movable track. A first slide member is slidably coupled to the movable track and slides between first and second positions. The first slide member slides from the first position to the second position in response to pivoting a seat back to a folded position thereby actuating a latch mechanism to an unlocking position and pivoting a hook lever to a raised position allowing movement of the seat assembly from a comfort range to an easy entry position. The first slide member slides from the second position to the first position in response to the first slide member engaging a rearward stop at a rearward end of the comfort range thereby actuating the latch mechanism to a locking position and pivoting the hook lever to lowered position. |
| US09010711B2 |
Height adjustment mechanism for juvenile product
A juvenile product height adjustment mechanism which allows for easy, secure adjustment by a caregiver is comprised of a rotatable knob received within a sliding channel and rotatably but securely attached to a slider. |
| US09010710B1 |
Telescoping support stand apparatus
A telescoping support stand comprising a first tube partially defining a first enclosed area and a second tube partially defining a second enclosed area. A first end of the second tube may be telescopically slidable within the first tube. The telescoping support stand may also comprise a first locking mechanism attached to the second tube. The first locking mechanism may releasably secure the first tube to the second tube. The telescoping support stand may also comprise a first air exchange aperture dimensioned to allow air to flow between the first and second enclosed areas. The telescoping support stand may further comprise a release mechanism and a release rod attached to the first locking mechanism. The release mechanism may comprise a displacement member adjacent to the release rod, the displacement member being configured to displace the release rod and release the first locking mechanism. |
| US09010706B2 |
Curtain rod ornamental structure
A curtain rod ornamental structure comprises a first ornamental panel with a leaning member extended outwards from the back side, a second ornamental panel and a third ornamental panel symmetrically coupled on two sides of the first ornamental panel, a first edge covering member fastened to one side of the second ornamental panel and including a first fixing member opposing the leaning member, and a second edge covering member fastened to one side of the third ornamental panel and including a second fixing member opposing the first fixing member. Through the leaning member, first fixing member and second fixing member a curtain rod can be coupled and anchored. The first, second and third ornamental panels can cover and decorate the curtain rod to meet ornamental purpose and increase varieties to improve practicality. |
| US09010704B2 |
Adjustment device and system
The invention includes an alignment device and system having a guide member, a support member and a connector which engages the guide member and the support member. The guide member may be a relatively flat piece attachable to and edge of a frame. In one aspect the guide member includes a perimeter slot. The support member may have a first portion generally perpendicular with a second portion and the first portion may be attached to an object (or integral with an object such as a window or door casing) which is to be aligned with a frame. The second portion may have a connector portion or threaded hole for receiving a connector. The connector may also engage the slot of the guide member. The device allows for desired alignment of an object within a frame by transferring rotational movement to linear movement. |
| US09010698B2 |
Gift bag holder
An embodiment of the invention provides a device for holding an article, wherein the device includes a front panel including a first aperture positioned above a second aperture. The first aperture is dimensioned to receive a display hook; and, the second aperture is dimensioned to receive and retain the article. A rear panel is hingedly connected to the front panel, wherein the rear panel includes a third aperture positioned above at least one fourth aperture. The third aperture is dimensioned to receive the display hook; and, the fourth aperture is dimensioned to receive and retain a second article. The device further includes a card removably connected to the rear panel via perforations. |
| US09010697B1 |
Single anchor utility hanger
A hanger for utility pipe includes a base having a channel with a pivot at one end and a mounting hole at the other. An arcuate strap is pivotally mounted to the base at the pivot and includes a fastening hole extendible into the channel in alignment with the mounting hole. The strap includes a circular cylindrical segment between two straight parallel segments to receive a pipe between the strap and the base. A fastener is employed through the fastening hole and the mounting hole to attach the hanger to a supporting structure. |
| US09010696B2 |
Wall stud mounting bracket for securing and positioning flexible conduit and cable
A support assembly connected with a stud for securing and guiding conduit and/or cable is provided. The support assembly includes, but is not limited to, a securing arm for securing and guiding the conduit and/or cable and an engaging tab coupled with an end of the securing arm. The engaging tab includes a first engagement member facing a second engagement member, a side engagement member connecting the first and second engagement members together, and a first compressible member extending in a first direction D1 either from the first engagement member towards the second engagement member or from the second engagement member towards the first engagement member. The first compressible member is compressible in a second direction D2 opposite that of the first direction D1. |
| US09010693B1 |
Collapsible wing and unmanned aircraft system including collapsible wing
A collapsible wing, methods of producing the collapsible wing, and an unmanned aircraft system that includes the collapsible wing are provided. |
| US09010691B1 |
Parachute deployment system
The present disclosure provides a parachute deployment system. The system may include a deployment spring arranged on a launch platform with a parachute that is foldable and positionable on an opposite side of the deployment spring from the launch platform. The system may also include a bridle line attached to the parachute, and a lanyard line having a first end and a second end. The first end of the lanyard line may be attached to the deployment spring, and the second end of the lanyard line may be attached to the launch platform. The system may also include a trigger system configured to initiate deployment of the parachute. Upon deployment, the deployment spring may be configured to launch the parachute and the bridle line substantially perpendicular to the launch platform. After deployment, the deployment spring and the lanyard line may be configured to hang from the launch platform. |
| US09010690B1 |
Airborne recovery system for aircraft with disabled landing gear
The airborne recovery system for aircraft with disabled landing gear includes a cradle holder removably secured to a rescue aircraft and a wheeled cradle removably secured atop the cradle holder. The rescue aircraft carries the cradle holder and cradle the rescue aircraft. The cradle holder is extended above the rescue aircraft for clearance as the rescue aircraft approaches the disabled aircraft. The forward portion of the cradle is also extended to support the forward fuselage of the disabled aircraft. The disabled aircraft is flown to mate with the cradle, and the cradle is separated from its cradle holder on the rescue aircraft. The disabled aircraft is then flown to a landing, supported by the wheels of the underlying cradle. The landing gear of the disabled aircraft is then lowered and repaired, and the cradle is removed for reinstallation upon the cradle holder of the rescue aircraft. |
| US09010688B2 |
Structural joint having continuous skin with inside and outside stringers
Apparatus and methods provide for a structural joint utilizing overlapping blade stringers coupled to opposing sides of a continuous skin. According to embodiments described herein, a structural joint includes a number of inside blade stringers associated with a first component are coupled to an inside surface of a continuous skin. A number of outside blade stringers associated with a second component may be coupled to an outside surface of the continuous skin. The inside blade stringers and outside blade stringers may overlap on opposing surfaces of the continuous skin. |
| US09010687B2 |
Insulating blanket for an aircraft and assembly integrating such a blanket
This invention proposes an insulation blanket for an aircraft, the said blanket coming in the form of a strip of insulation material of elongated shape having two more or less parallel longitudinal edges (12).This blanket comprises: at least one bar (14) extending over one face of the insulation blanket (6), from one longitudinal edge (12) to the other thereof, as well as means for holding (18) the said bar (14), and the bar (14) bears at least one system support intended to receive a system (30, 32). |
| US09010686B2 |
Module for an aircraft
A module for an aircraft having a fuselage structure and a floor element defining a floor plane. The module includes a frame device adapted for mounting a functional element and the frame device is adapted for attachment to the floor element of the aircraft at a first location in the floor plane. The frame device is adapted for attachment to the fuselage structure of the aircraft at a second location, wherein the second location is not in the floor plane. |
| US09010676B2 |
Dispenser for fishing line
A device solves problems associates with the storage, transport and subsequent dispensing of fishing line, such as fly fishing monofilament leader material. Leader material of choice can be loaded onto the independently rotating spools, fastened to side plates with proprietary quick-release locking pins, and dispensed from a single, compact, portable station. The device is modular in design and can accommodate various quantities of spools which rotate about the side plates on an integral boss. The user is not limited to a particular manufacturer's brand of monofilament material and re-use of the device is unlimited. Moreover, the user can purchase leader material in larger spools, rather than smaller tippets, winding a spool of the device of the present invention with a desired amount of fishing line. |
| US09010673B2 |
Wire electric discharge machining apparatus
A wire electric discharge machining apparatus according to embodiments includes a wire electrode, a wire supplying unit that supplies the wire electrode, a collecting motor that collects the wire electrode at a predetermined speed, a tension motor that controls a tension of the wire electrode between the wire supplying unit and the collecting motor, a speed calculating unit that calculates a traveling speed of the wire electrode at a predetermined time interval, a speed storing unit that stores the traveling speed calculated by the speed calculating unit, a differential speed calculating unit that calculates a differential speed between a current traveling speed output from the speed calculating unit and a past traveling speed stored in the speed storing unit, and a breakage detecting unit that detects breakage of the wire electrode by comparing the differential speed with a predetermined threshold. |
| US09010671B2 |
Fishing reel
A fishing reel has a reel body and an adjusting device. The reel body has a spool that is made of metal. The adjusting device has an adjusting button, an adjusting base and a magnetic set. The adjusting button has an adjusting structure being spiral, facing the spool and forming a step between a highest part and a lowest part of the adjusting structure. The adjusting base has a coordinating portion being spiral, facing the adjusting structure and forming a step between a highest part and a lowest part of the coordinating portion. The magnet set is mounted on the adjusting base and faces the spool. |
| US09010669B2 |
Pill crusher assembly and methods
A pill crusher includes a base and a handle. The base has a bottom resting surface that includes an at least partially molded friction-enhancing portion. The handle includes an upper region, a gripping region, and a column. The gripping region includes an at least partially molded friction-enhancing portion. A method of crushing a pill includes placing a pill within a pill chamber, inserting a column into the pill chamber, and then crushing the pill by exerting force on the pill by the column. The handle and the base include at least partially molded friction-enhancing portions. |
| US09010668B2 |
Safety device for food cutting machine
The invention relates to a magnetic safety device especially designed for use with a combined food cutting and processing machine. An assembly of elements work together to move a magnet vertically and modify the relative position of said magnet with respect to a magnetic detector/sensor located in the interior of the motor block of the combined food cutting machine. |
| US09010667B2 |
Organic shredder apparatus and method for operating an organic shredder
An apparatus and method is provided for organic material reduction and preparation for subsequent recycling or disposal in a self-contained system which is safe for equipment operators, and highly cost and floor-space efficient. The apparatus includes a preferably-shaped hopper for receiving organic materials to the reduced, preferably a floating auger, a solids pump and a macerator. The system preferably generates a processed organic material discharge with a particle size on the order of ⅛″ without concern as to the liquid content of the incoming organic material. The apparatus may be operated by a method which is completely automated following operator initiation, including automatically attempting self-clearing actions in the event of detecting clogs or jams in the processing components. |
| US09010666B2 |
Jet mill and method for operation of a jet mill
A method for the operation of a jet mill with an integrated dynamic air classifier, wherein particles are fed as grinding stock into a grinding chamber of the jet mill and are ground there into ultra-fine particles by grinding, in that superheated steam or technical gases is/are used as working stock, wherein at least one surface-active additive is fed to the grinding stock for stabilization of the generated ultra-fine particles. A jet mill for performing this method, having an integrated dynamic air classifier, and a grinding chamber into which superheated steam or technical gases are provided as working stock via working stock feed devices as grinding stock and in which the grinding stock is ground into ultra-fine particles by grinding, and wherein feeding devices for at least one surface-active additive for stabilization of the generated ultra-fine particles are provided. |
| US09010662B1 |
Lawn and tree fertilizing device installable on sprinkler system
The present invention features a fertilizing device for installing in a water system comprising a top cover removably and sealably attached to a base; an intake pipe disposed on a first side and an outlet pipe disposed on a second side of the base, the intake pipe and outlet pipe are both fluidly connected to the inner cavity of the top cover; an open container with apertures disposed in the first and second container side walls for holding a fertilizer bar; wherein the intake pipe is connected to a first portion of a pipe of the water system, the outlet pipe is connected to a second portion of the pipe of the water system; wherein water from the water system can enter the intake pipe, mix with the fertilizer bar, and exit via the outlet pipe. |
| US09010661B2 |
Washer nozzle for vehicle
A washer nozzle includes a heat emitting unit for smoothly washing a glass in a winter season is installed. The washer nozzle for a vehicle which, by realizing a new type of washer nozzle to which an integral structure of a heat conductor and a nozzle cover is applied through insert injection-molding of the heat conductor is applied and to which a structure where a heat emitter is firmly fastened to the housing by using a structure in the housing is applied, can improve a washer liquid ejecting performance through an increase in a heat transfer efficiency inside the nozzle and reduce the number of processes and a defect rate through fixing of the heat emitter at an optimum location, thereby improving quality. |
| US09010652B2 |
Color restoration for color space encoded image
Embodiments of the present disclosure can include devices for storing and exchanging color space encoded images. The encoded images can store input data into high capacity multi-colored composite two-dimensional pictures having different symbols organized in specific order using sets in a color space. The encoding can include performing two-level error correction and generating frames based on the color space for formatting and calibrating the encoded images during decoding. The decoding can use the frames to perform color restoration and distortion correction. The decoding can be based on a pseudo-Euclidean distance between a distorted color and a color in a color calibration cells. In some embodiments, an encoded image can be further divided into sub-images during encoding for simplified distortion correction. |
| US09010651B2 |
Devices and methods using swipe detection
The present invention relates devices and methods using swipe detection. A swipeable computer of the present invention comprises a capacitive detector having an output, a switchable magnetic field sensor having an output, a memory unit, and a logic unit. The memory unit stores a standard capacitance change and a standard magnetic field change. The logic unit is electrically connected to the capacitive detector output, the switchable magnetic field sensor, the switchable magnetic field sensor output, and the memory unit. The logic unit of the swipeable computer is adapted to determine if the capacitive detector output corresponds to the standard capacitance change, to enable the switchable magnetic field sensor if the change in capacitance corresponds to the standard capacitance change, and to determine if the switchable magnetic field sensor output corresponds to the standard magnetic field change. |
| US09010649B2 |
IC card, portable electronic device, and reader/writer
An IC card of an embodiment performs contactless communication with an external device having a first battery and a first carrier wave output device to output carrier wave using electric power of the first battery. The IC card is provided with a second battery, a second carrier wave output device, a battery remaining capacity reading processor and a comparing processor. The second carrier wave output device outputs carrier wave using electric power of the second battery, to supply electric power to the external device. The battery remaining capacity reading processor acquires information indicating a remaining capacity of the first battery. The comparing processor compares the remaining capacity of the first battery with of a remaining capacity of the second battery. |
| US09010647B2 |
Multiple sensor detector systems and detection methods of magnetic cards and devices
A powered card may include a plurality of types of sensors used to detect a read-head of a card reader. Detection of a read-head may include comparing characteristics of a detection event to characteristics of an expected detection event and/or a sequence of expected detection events. An inductive read-head sensor may include a coil of a dynamic magnetic stripe communication device. |
| US09010646B2 |
Optical contact loaded magnetic card
A magnetic interface card appears to be a payment card conventionally provided with an electromagnetic stripe and magnetic data tracks. A magnetic emissive element is disposed in the magnetic interface card body under the magnetic data tracks that can emit a variety of ISO-7813 track-2 data strings. A photo-sensor is included to receive a series of optically encoded flashes from a personal trusted device (PTD) smartphone screen that securely communicate one-time-use account information and operational parameters from a financial transaction server. The large installed base of legacy point-of-sale magnetic card readers can continue to be used without any hardware or software modifications, and card security is improved by the change to one-time-use access numbers. |
| US09010644B1 |
Dynamic magnetic stripe communications device with stepped magnetic material for magnetic cards and devices
A flexible card may include a dynamic magnetic stripe communications device having multiple layers, such as an electromagnetic generator, a magnet, and a shield. A shield may form a non-flexible layer within the stack and may bend, but the shield may not be able to stretch or compress. Flexible layers may surround and adhere to the shield such that when the card is flexed, the flexible layers may stretch and compress with the movement of the shield. The dynamic magnetic stripe communications device may include one or more coils. Each coil may contain a stepped material, such that a length of a lower layer of the stepped material is longer than a length of a middle layer of the stepped material which is longer than a length of a top layer of the stepped material. |
| US09010642B2 |
Transparent display for data collection engine
An electronic device includes a display device that is at least semi-transparent. The electronic device includes a housing with a first coupling component, a data acquisition device configured to capture first data within a first field of view (FOV), and the display device. The display device includes a viewable portion that is semi-transparent and configured to display second data. The display device includes a second coupling component disposed at least partially on the viewable portion and coupling with the first coupling component to couple the display device to the housing. When the first and second coupling components are coupled, the display device is positioned in such a manner that a second FOV viewed through the viewable portion is viewable by a user. The first FOV of the data acquisition device is within at least a portion of the second FOV of the viewable portion. |
| US09010641B2 |
Multiple platform support system and method
A portable data terminal including a processor having an instruction set architecture and data storage means configured to store a plurality of operating systems and a virtual machine monitor application program configured to receive at least one instruction from each operating system, communicate with the processor according to the instruction set architecture, and switch operating system access to the processor upon receipt of an electrical signal representing an event. |
| US09010639B2 |
System and method for reading a two-dimensional array code
The present invention relates to a system and method for reading a two-dimensional array code. The two-dimensional array code comprises a plurality of equal-height code characters arranged into a two-dimensional array, wherein each of the code characters corresponds to a bit group representing information, and the adjacent code characters in the row direction of the two-dimensional array have equal center distances; and a locating mechanism, for defining size and/or direction of the two-dimensional array arranged by the code characters. The present invention greatly reduces the cost for issuing a two-dimensional code, and significantly increases the user convenience. This two-dimensional array code has high compatibility for user mobile terminals. In addition, the entire system apparently improves its safety and stability, and is suitable for the present network application environment. |
| US09010633B2 |
System and method for new execution and management of financial and data transactions
A system and method for execution of financial and data transactions includes a point-of-sale device configured to execute a transaction in which at least one good or service is sold to an individual having a card with a storage medium encoding a card number. The transaction is completed after said point-of-sale device receives a data transmission authorizing said transaction. The point-of-sale device is configured to communicate via the Internet with a first computing system. The first computing system stores a set of instructions that cause the first computing system to evaluate the transaction to determine whether the transaction is to be authorized, and to send a transmission authorizing the transaction via the open network to said point-of-sale device. |
| US09010631B2 |
Combicard transaction method and system having an application parameter update mechanism
Systems, methods and IC card devices are described for updating parameters such as unblocking or blocking or re-blocking an application on an IC card device whereby an integrated circuit card device gets issued with one or more active applications and optionally one or more dormant applications. Post issuance, triggered by a cardholder action when using a primary application, the issuer will send a command, e.g. in the form of a script to the card that will update parameters of another application, e.g. to ‘wake up’ the or each dormant application. An on-card mechanism is provided for the deblocking of the dormant application while the primary application is active. For any further transactions performed with the card, the cardholder will be offered a choice between the unblocked applications on the card. Optionally the oncard mechanism can also block or re-block an application or perform other actions. |
| US09010630B2 |
Systems and methods for programmable payment cards and devices with loyalty-based payment applications
A payment card (e.g., credit and/or debit card) or other device (e.g., mobile telephone) is provided with a magnetic emulator operable to communicate data to a magnetic stripe read-head. Data may include the type of reward that a user would like to earn as a result of making a purchase or the type of reward that a user would like to utilize to at least partially pay for a purchase. |
| US09010627B1 |
Initiating a kiosk transaction
A method of initiating a banking transaction at a banking terminal is provided. The method includes optically capturing machine readable identification data of the banking terminal by a mobile device of a customer. A terminal identifier of the banking terminal is determined based on the machine readable identification data. Account information and the terminal identifier are transmitted from the mobile device for delivery to a server. The account information is associated with the customer and stored in the mobile device. The method also includes the step of transmitting the account information from the server to the banking terminal using the terminal identifier and receiving a customer transaction request from the customer at the banking terminal. |
| US09010624B2 |
Method in which a mobile phone reads a bar code located on a defective domestic appliance and is automatically connected to customer service
A method for supporting an operator of a household appliance, in particular a domestic appliance, by making contact with customer service for the household appliance with the aid of a portable communication device is disclosed. A machine-readable code affixed to the household appliance, in particular the domestic appliance, is detected by an optical detection device of the portable communication device. On the basis of the detected code, a communication link is established between the portable communication device and communication equipment of customer service, specifically automatically via the portable communication device. |
| US09010622B2 |
System and method for delivering information using image code
A system and method for delivering information using an image code. A first system for handing over to a second system an operation being performed by the first system includes an image code generation unit to generate the image code using a uniform resource locator (URL) of a webpage; and a display control unit to control the image code to be displayed via a display device. The image code is photographed by the second system and input to the second system in the form of an image file, and the URL is extracted from the image code in the second system so that the webpage is displayed in the second system. |
| US09010621B2 |
Stackable containers with interlocking features
A box for receiving a food item is provided, and the box is usable with an additional box that is also configured to receive a food item. The box includes a bottom portion including a bottom panel having a link feature formed therein, and a top portion hingedly connected to the bottom portion and configured to form a cover. The top portion includes a top panel having a link feature formed therein. The link feature of the bottom portion is cooperable with the additional box to link the two boxes together when the additional box is placed beneath the box, or the link feature of the top portion is cooperable with the additional box to link the two boxes together when the additional box is placed on top of the box. Furthermore, at least one of the link features comprises a bendable tab. |
| US09010620B2 |
Carton with handle
A carton for containing a plurality of articles. The carton comprises a plurality of panels that extends at least partially around an interior of the carton. The plurality of panels comprises at least one top panel and a reinforcement panel. A single phase handle extends in the at least one top panel and the reinforcement panel. The single phase handle can comprise at least one grip portion extending adjacent a handle opening on one side of the at least one grip portion. The handle opening can comprise a first opening in the at least one top panel and a second opening in the reinforcement panel. The second opening can be generally aligned with the first opening. |
| US09010610B2 |
Buttress retention system for linear endostaplers
An end effector for use with a surgical stapler comprising a staple cartridge having a tissue contacting surface, a first side surface, and a second side surface opposite the first side surface, an anvil plate having a tissue contacting surface, a first side surface, and a second side surface opposite the first side surface, wherein the first and second side surfaces of each of the staple cartridge and anvil plate have overmolded zones, a buttress releasably disposed on the tissue contacting surfaces of each of the staple cartridge and the anvil plate, and a pair of sutures wherein each suture is bonded to the respective overmolded zones of the first and second side surfaces configured to retain the respective buttress atop the respective tissue contacting surfaces. |
| US09010602B2 |
Towel dispenser
An improved towel dispenser includes a rotatable driveshaft mounted in a one-way clutch bearing fitted with a pinion which engages a vertically oriented press bar assembly including at its lower portion a rack which engages the pinion to advance paper towel through a dispensing nip upon pivotable motion of the press bar assembly. A dispensing chute located below the dispensing nip includes a lower shelf configured to direct web forwardly toward the front portion of a dispenser. The gear rack is preferably an internal gear rack integrally formed with a unitary press bar assembly member. The dispensing chute is configured such that an angle between a cutting-blade and the outer lip of the shelf makes an angle with a vertical of at least about 25°. |
| US09010601B2 |
Tape dispenser
A tape dispenser includes a hollow body and a blade unit. The body has a frame, a blade seat and an opening. A reception portion is formed between the body and the frame so as to accommodate the tape. The opening communicates with inside of the body and the blade unit is located in the blade seat. The blade unit has a blade for cutting the tape. |
| US09010600B1 |
Holster vehicle mount
A holster vehicle mount for mounting and securing a holster (such as that used with handguns or other devices) between a steering column and a lower dash panel. |
| US09010599B2 |
Cup holder
A cup holder has a case; a holder body disposed movably between a stored position wherein the holder body is stored in the case, and an in-use position wherein the holder body projects from the opening; a guide wall; a container-holding member disposed swivelably on the holder body; a coupling device disposed in the container-holding member for swiveling; and a coupled device formed on the guide wall, and coupling with the coupling device to restrict the movement of the holder body toward the stored position. When the holder body is drawn out from the case, a coupling device slides on the guide wall, and the container-holding member swivels from the stored position toward the container-holding position. When the holder body is stored in the case, the coupling device slides on the guide wall, and the container-holding member swivels from the container-holding position toward the stored position. |
| US09010596B2 |
Device for securing a junior golf bag to a golf cart and methods of use thereof
Devices for securing a junior golf bag to a golf cart and methods of use thereof are shown. A golf bag insert device and a tilted golf bag securing device each provide junior golfers to have better access to their clubs (both visually and physically) without worries of their clubs or bag becoming dislodged from the cart. |
| US09010595B2 |
Hand-based systems and methods to carry mobile device(s)
Systems and methods are disclosed to conveniently carry a mobile device, among others, on a hand brace. The systems include a case to enclose the mobile device and a system to wear the apparatus on a hand. The systems comprise of a case; a case tether coupled to the case; a hand brace shaft coupled to a hand brace and a case lock to secure the case in a closed position. Also presented, a method to carry and use the device while tethered to a hand. |
| US09010593B2 |
System for connecting a bracelet to a watch case
System for connecting a bracelet to a watch case by means of a link, the watch case comprising a caseband and a back cover, the link comprising a first hollow element and a second element partly nesting in the first hollow element, the first hollow element carrying a first means of fastening to the watch case and the second element carrying a second means of fastening to an adjacent bracelet link, characterized in that the watch case includes a mechanical device arranged to pivot the second element about a transverse axis to the longitudinal direction of the bracelet, the second element transmitting the pivoting motion thereof to the first element which pivots in turn and which is pressed against the caseband of the watch case. |
| US09010588B2 |
Method and apparatus for engaging a beverage extraction device with a container
Devices and methods for clamping a beverage extraction device to a beverage container, such as a wine bottle. One or more clamp arms may be arranged to clamp the extraction device to a wine bottle as well as allow the device to be supported upright on a table top. Clamp arms may include tab and ridge features that operate to properly engage and position a wide variety of different bottle neck shapes relative to the device. The one or more clamp arms may move the bottle neck distally, e.g., toward a resilient pad, so that the neck is suitably positioned relative to the device. Proper positioning and engagement of the neck may allow for desired piercing of a cork or other closure of the bottle by the device. |
| US09010587B2 |
Trigger dispenser for liquids with a stop for the dispensing valve
A trigger dispenser (1) for liquids comprises a suction valve (30) and a delivery valve (60), separate from the suction valve (30). The dispenser (1) has a detachable stop (100), comprising a bottom (104) positioned rearwards of the delivery valve (60) to form an end stop abutment with this during the dispensing step. |
| US09010586B2 |
Cartridge with lockable feed plunger
A cartridge for squeezing-out a cartridge content, like a cement, or a medical cement, having a cylindrical hollow space bordered by a cartridge wall, a feed plunger arranged in the hollow space to be mobile along the cylinder axis of the hollow space and abutting the cartridge wall, and at least one snap-in means for locking the feed plunger in place at the cartridge wall, to a locking device arranged on the feed plunger and comprises at least a snap-in means which is accessible from outside when the feed plunger is locked. The invention also provides a cartridge system with a cartridge for squeezing out content and a method for dispensing such cartridge content, preferably a cement, through the use of a cartridge of said type. |
| US09010584B2 |
Dispensers
A pump dispenser is intended for oral administration of medicines. A pump receives fluid product through a valved inlet from a container, preferably of the airless type with a follower piston. The dispenser may be a movable-nozzle or fixed-nozzle dispenser. The discharge outlet of the dispenser has a stub nozzle incorporating a closure valve. A spring urges the closure valve forward to close a discharge opening of the stub nozzle. The nozzle attachment is shaped for oral dosing and has an internal rearwardly-projecting actuating structure which, when the nozzle attachment is coupled onto the stub nozzle, pushes the closure valve open. When the nozzle attachment is removed the spring closes the outlet again. Child-resistant features are described for fitting the nozzle attachment to the stub nozzle. |
| US09010583B2 |
Undercounter ice dispenser
An improved undercounter ice dispenser is disclosed that has a multiple piece auger made in sections for moving ice from the dispenser bin to its ice chute. The auger ice chute invention includes a sensor to reduce ice jamming and to detect when the ice chute is filled or needs filling and works in conjunction with a paddle on the auger to help make the transition. Proportional size ice quantities may also be selected via an interface and auger control. |
| US09010581B2 |
Dispenser having a rotational lock
A dispenser for dispensing liquid to pasty compositions, has a dispensing head, which has a dispensing mouth, and with a reservoir and a dispenser head part. The dispensing head is movable relative to the dispenser head part from a dispensing stand-by position to a lowered position and vice versa. In order to design and develop a dispenser in such a way that the dispensing mouth is oriented without relative rotation or without at least substantial relative rotation with respect to the dispenser sleeve part when the dispensing head is extended, the dispenser head part moves the dispensing head in and out only axially. |
| US09010579B2 |
Manifold module for beverage dispensing system
A beverage dispensing system includes a beverage dispensing head for dispensing beverages from at least one pressurized beverage source, and at least one beverage tube, with a first end that is fluidly connected to the beverage dispensing head and a second end. A manifold module for use in this system includes at least one flow control module configured for attachment to and fluid communication with the beverage source, and a beverage redirecting apparatus configured to be attached between the flow control module and the second end of the beverage tube. The beverage redirecting apparatus includes at least one fluid inlet in fluid communication with the flow control module and at least one fluid outlet in fluid communication with the second end of the beverage tube. The beverage redirecting apparatus is configured such that a direction of fluid flow is altered between the inlet and the outlet. |
| US09010576B2 |
Beverage dispenser
A beverage dispenser for preparing a warm instant drink has a heating unit for warm water, a container holder for instant-ingredient, a mixing unit for mixing instant-ingredient from the container holder with warm water from the heating unit, and a nozzle for supplying the prepared beverage. |
| US09010574B2 |
Container with a frangible sealed access and a vapour permeable vent
A container (1, 2) for storing and dispensing a liquid, the container including an access port (16) having a frangible seal (18) for allowing contained liquid to be dispensed. A vent (19) permeable to vapour but impermeable to liquid is also provided so that vapour may be vented from the interior of the container. |
| US09010570B2 |
Dispensing container
A container adapted for dispensing a product is provided. The container includes an outer casing body for receiving a dispensing tray. The dispensing tray has an internal storage compartment for storage of a plurality of units of a product to be dispensed, and includes a cover plate defining at least one dispensing aperture through which a stored unit of product is accessible when the outer casing body is in a dispensing position. The container includes a locking mechanism that releasably locks the outer casing body in the closed and locked position. |
| US09010568B2 |
No-spill drinking cup apparatus
An improved no-spill cup construction and valve assembly. When not in use, an opening in the flexible material rests against a blocking element, sealing off the opening against the flow of liquid. The closed position provides an extremely secure seal against fluid leakage, such that inadvertent spills, such as by turning the cup upside down, are ineffective. The act of sucking at the cup spout creates negative pressure or a partial vacuum against the flexible material, lifting the opening off of the blocking element, and unblocking that opening. When the opening is unblocked, liquid can flow freely through the valve and spout. |
| US09010567B2 |
Lid
A lid for covering a container having a consumable liquid. The lid comprises a top, and a first rim coupled to and supported by the top. A spout is connected to and supported by the top, and a second rim is connected to and is supported by the first rim. The lid includes a lower rim assembly, and a recess assembly coupled to a lower surface of the second rim and to an upper surface of the lower rim assembly. |
| US09010563B2 |
Container having metal outer frame for supporting L-shaped tracks
A container for holding product therein during shipment and being returned for reuse has a metal frame, tracks having horizontal and vertical portions attached to opposite sides of the frame, and a plurality of support member assemblies extending between the tracks. Each support member assembly includes end members located at the ends of a tubular support, the end members being movable in the tracks. The support member assemblies support dunnage for supporting products for storage or shipment. |
| US09010562B1 |
Magnetic trash can anchor
A magnetic trash can anchoring system includes a plate anchored to a trash can and a magnetic plate which is attached to a desired ground surface. The system secures the trash can in an upright position to prevent overturning and accidental toppling. Alternately, the system can also be part of the original equipment of the trash can. In a second alternative, the anchor plate is further provided with a wheeled assembly to assist with disengagement of the anchor plate and magnetic plate and to assist with transportation of the attached trash can. |
| US09010559B2 |
Collapsible hard case for surfboards and other large objects
A collapsible protective case for surfboards, musical instruments, or other large objects, including a housing having a rigid, impact-resistant outer surface, the housing being formed from a multiplicity of adjoining subsections that are selectively configurable between expanded and intermediate transport positions and a collapsed storage position. |
| US09010558B2 |
Bottle container with handle
The invention relates to a bottle container with a handle. A mounting projecting portion is provided on the bottle body, and a handle member is provided with a mounting hole which allows the mounting projecting portion to be inserted thereinto, and a handle portion which extends from the mounting portion, and is mounted on the bottle body by inserting the mounting projecting portion into the mounting hole, and then rotating the mounting projecting portion relative to the bottle body. The bottle body is provided with a rotation preventing member which accommodates the handle portion to prevent the relative rotation of the bottle body and the handle member in a state where the handle member has been mounted. |
| US09010557B2 |
Commemorative hollow-stem vesselware
Product is a commemorative and/or functional drinking vessel of any size that contains thematic emblems, imagery, graphics, and labels displayed on the cup, with associated thematic objects contained within a hollow stem of any diameter or length. Hollow-stem vesselware is defined as any vessel that is supported by a hollow stem with thematic object and foot. This iconic work is a memorable souvenir, award, or gift for people of all walks of life, and can be custom-designed to meet any customer need. The hollow stem containing thematic objects is not found within any other market with such style and poise. This item lends instant class and character to any event or memorabilia collection. |
| US09010554B2 |
Tamper-evident closure
A tamper-evident closure for a container is provided. The closure comprises a first portion including inner and outer parts, and a second portion. The outer part is rotatable relative to the inner part from a first position in which at least part of the first and second portions are adjacent each other to a second position in which there is a gap therebetween. The first portion comprises locking means for irreversibly locking the closure in the second position upon a first opening so that the gap cannot be closed. The inner part includes a line of weakness which breaks if the outer part is reverse rotated relative to the inner part. |
| US09010550B2 |
Under-hood tool bar
A tool bar for securing under a hood of a car during repair and maintenance is disclosed. A rigid member spanning a substantial portion of the hood is flexibly secured to hooks. The hooks engage edges of the hood and may include a compliant covering. The hooks may secure to the rigid member by means of straps and the straps may be tensioned by means of tensioners secured to one of the hooks and the rigid member. A stabilizer secures to the rigid member and has an end that may be clipped or otherwise fastened to a portion of the hood to resist rotation of the rigid member. One or more tool retaining members secured to the rigid member, such as a socket rack, magnetic bar, hook groove, or the like. |
| US09010547B2 |
High flux fluid separation membranes comprising a cellulose or cellulose derivative layer
The present invention provides membranes having a coating layer comprising cellulose or cellulose derivative and a porous support comprising nanofibers prepared by a process of coating a solution comprising cellulose or a cellulose derivative dissolved in an ionic liquid on to a porous support layer. The present invention is useful for providing improved water flux and high rejection rates for oil/water emulsions. The present invention also provides fluid separation systems in UF, NF, RO and FO, incorporating membranes of the present invention. |
| US09010546B2 |
Ultrafiltration membranes and methods of making
The present invention is an integral multilayered composite membrane having at least one ultrafiltration layer made by cocasting or sequentially casting a plurality of polymer solutions onto a support to form a multilayered liquid sheet and immersing the sheet into a liquid coagulation bath to effect phase separation and form a multilayered composite membrane having at least one ultrafiltration layer. |
| US09010538B2 |
Apparatus and method for magnetic separation
An apparatus causes magnetic separation of a first component having relatively strongly magnetic properties from a mixture containing it and at least one other component having relatively weak magnetic properties. Included are a rotatable magnetic source configured for generation of a predetermined non-uniform magnetic field at a predetermined distance from an axis of rotation of the magnetic source, thereby creating a magnetic field region while rotating in a first predetermined direction, and also a rotatable shell mounted around the magnetic source. The rotatable shell is configured for rotating concentrically with the magnetic source in a second predetermined direction to form a conveying channel within the magnetic field region. The conveying channel is configured for conveying the first component within the magnetic field region owing to the attraction of the first component to the exterior surface of the rotatable tubular shell by the magnetic field developed by the rotatable magnetic source. |
| US09010536B2 |
Nestable can tray
A nestable can tray includes a base including a plurality of intersecting vertical rib portions. A plurality of horizontal wall portions are connected proximate lower ends of the vertical rib portions. A plurality of annular recesses are formed on an upper surface of the base for receiving lower ends of beverage cans. The tray further includes side walls including side columns extending upward from lower side wall portions at sides of the base. End walls include end columns at ends of the base. The side columns are configured to be partially receivable into side columns of an identical tray nested thereon and the end columns are configured to be partially receivable into end columns of the identical tray nested thereon. |
| US09010530B2 |
Self-orienting desiccant holder for use with in a suction device
A receptacle for consistently orienting a sterilized surgical instrument for natural grasping by a physician without removing his or her vision from the operational field, wherein the receptacle may also comprise a reservoir and desiccant for maintaining sanitized or sterilized instruments. |
| US09010525B2 |
Slat conveyor apparatus
To provide a slat conveyor apparatus in which course change path parts are moved without inverting the upper and lower sides of slats to eliminate the need for an expensive pitting work, wherein the slats can be held horizontally by a simplified configuration on the course change path parts at front and back ends in the direction of conveyance, whereby the length of the working process does not become shorter, and a required inverting action can be made by a simplified configuration.Endless chains 2C are connected to front ends of the slats 3 in a traveling direction F, a supported means B to be supported at the course change path parts C1 is provided to back ends of the slats 3 in the traveling direction F, a movable supporting means C is provided to the course change path parts C1 to support the supported means B from below and hold the slats 3 in the horizontal posture, and the movable supporting means C repeatedly travels back and forth in the vertical direction in conjunction with movement of the endless chains 2C and moves to a position at which to support the supported means B from below only when the supported means B passes through the course change path parts C1. |
| US09010523B2 |
Low back-pressure accumulation system
A belt conveyor having upper article-supporting belt rollers that are rotated rearward by rotating lower belt rollers only when the articles are slowed or stopped from advancing with the belt. As the belt advances in a direction of travel, the lower rollers rotate by contact with a bearing surface underlying the belt. The upper rollers have axles whose ends are retained in slots that slope downward in the belt's direction of travel. The slots provide the upper rollers a range of positions between a forward position out of contact with the rotating lower roller and a rearward position contacting the lower roller, which rotates the upper roller rearward relieving back line pressure on accumulated articles. |
| US09010519B2 |
Method and conveyor device for returning empties, in particular bottles and cans
The present invention relates to a method for returning empties, in particular bottles and cans, having a bulk input, in which the empties (10) are moved from an input space (8) past a detection unit (14) by a conveyor device (1) rotating about the longitudinal axis thereof, and further having a conveyor device for implementing said method, comprising a plurality followers mounted transversely to the direction of conveyance and spaced a distance apart. An increased throughput is to be achieved with such a method and such a conveyor device. This is achieved in that the empties (10) are parallelized out of the input space (8) by the conveyor device (1) and fed to the detection unit (14) in a field array, or in that each follower (4) is designed to be wide enough to hold at least two empties (10) side by side, and that an angular momentum is applied to the empties (10) at least in the detection field (15) of the detection unit (14). |
| US09010518B2 |
Mass transit facilitation system and method
A mass transit system. The system comprises a first platform for supporting a cargo compartment, a rotating platform having a center area, and a conveyor system for moving the cargo compartment from the first platform to the center area of the rotating platform, while the rotating platform is rotating. The system also includes apparatus for moving the cargo compartment from the center area of the rotating platform to a point relative to the rotating platform that is adjacent a perimeter of the rotating platform. Finally, the system may include apparatus for moving the cargo compartment from the center area to a point relative to the rotating platform that is adjacent a perimeter of the rotating platform. |
| US09010516B2 |
Traveling type immersion treatment apparatus
A traveling type immersion treatment apparatus for a vehicle body has a speed control device which controls the traveling speed of the conveying traveling body according to the angle of rotation of a rotary shaft that rotates the vehicle body. Between an upright position and a 90° rotation position the forward speed of the conveying traveling body is gradually decreased in relation to a reference conveying speed; then the forward speed of the conveying traveling body is gradually increased in relation to the reference conveying speed until the vehicle body reaches a 270° rotation position from the 90° rotation position; and then the forward speed of the conveying traveling body is gradually decreased in relation to the reference conveying speed until the vehicle body returns to the original upright position from the 270° rotation position. |
| US09010514B2 |
Clutch release bearing device
The clutch release bearing device comprising a bearing 12 provided with a non-rotating ring 18, a rotating ring 20 and at least one row of rolling elements 22 arranged between the rings, and a wear ring 44 arranged on the rotating ring and capable of coming into contact with a clutch mechanism diaphragm, the wear ring 44 comprising at least one ball joint 84 bearing against a guide portion 42; 92 of the rotating ring and of which the axis 90 may be angularly tilted relative to the axis 14 of the bearing. The wear ring 44 is provided with a guide portion 80 comprising an internal surface in contact with an external bearing surface of the rotating ring, the ball joint 84 and joining portions 86; 94 capable of permitting angular tilting of the ball joint relative to the guide portion. |
| US09010513B2 |
Pneumatic clutch with improved capacity and longevity
Pneumatic fan drive assembly with improved capacity, longevity and heat control. The output member is positioned radially internally of the output member. The friction mechanism has longer movement (moment) arms and torque. The friction engagement has an increased friction surface arm. A portion of the heat generated by the friction mechanism is evacuated to the atmosphere rather than being completely internalized in the assembly. The friction material for the friction lining alternatively can be formed of a plasma spray. |
| US09010510B2 |
Dual clutch for a dual clutch transmission
The invention relates to a dual clutch for a dual clutch transmission for transmitting a torque from a drive shaft to at least one drive shaft, which comprises a first clutch, a second clutch, and an electrical actuating device. The actuating device comprises a coupling slide, wherein a first slide of the coupling slide acts on the first clutch, and a second slide of the coupling slide acts on the second clutch, and the two slides are movable in such a way that by displacing the slides a recoupling process is controlled. |
| US09010502B2 |
Retaining formation
A retaining formation defined on a brake lever of an air disc brake includes a push fit/snap fit connection for releasably securing a push rod to a brake lever. The retaining formation can include a pinned connection and a ball and socket joint, and a main axis of the pinned connection is coincident with a center of rotation of the ball and socket joint. The retaining formation can include a concave formation on one of the push rod and the brake lever and a corresponding convex formation on the other of the push rod and the brake lever. The concave formation at least partially surrounds the convex formation to prevent axial separation of the push rod and the brake lever. A method of assembling a brake subassembly includes the steps of assembling a push rod and a brake lever including a retaining formation such that at least a portion of the retaining formation deforms during assembly and resiles when the push rod is assembled to the brake lever to provide a snap fit connection therebetween. Another method of manufacturing a retaining formation includes the steps of providing one of a push rod and a brake lever with a concave formation, providing the other of the push rod and the brake lever with a convex formation able to receive the concave formation, assembling the concave formation and the convex formation, mechanically working the one of the push rod and the brake lever with the concave formation such that the concave formation at least partially surrounds the convex formation to prevent axial separation of the push rod and the brake lever. |
| US09010500B2 |
Hydraulic brake hose structure
A hydraulic brake hose structure is basically provided with a hydraulic brake hose and a first sealing material. The hydraulic brake hose has a first end with a first opening and a second end with a second opening. The first sealing material overlies the first opening of the first end to form a first seal that seals the first opening of the first end. The first sealing material ruptures at a prescribed hydraulic fluid pressure threshold. |
| US09010495B2 |
Sheave for use in an elevator system
An elevator sheave (20) includes a belt guiding surface (26) having a surface profile along at least a portion of the belt guiding surface. The surface profile preferably is defined by an nth order polynomial equation where n is a number greater than 2. In one example, the reference point (40) is a central point along the width of the belt guiding surface (26). In one example, a central portion (42) of the surface profile preferably is aligned to be generally parallel with the central axis (34) of the sheave body. Some examples have curvilinear side portions (44,46) between the central portion (42) and the edges (28,30) of the sheave. Other examples also include second side portions (48,50) that have linear profiles. |
| US09010494B2 |
Bearing lubrication
A lubrication apparatus for lubricating a surface of at least one component of a piece of equipment, which includes a lubrication mist generating unit in which air and a lubricant are combined to form a lubricant mist. A device is included for directly connecting the lubrication mist generating unit to the equipment at a position adjacent the surface to be lubricated. |
| US09010493B2 |
Lubrication arrangement
A lubrication system for a work tool, such as a demolition hammer, on a machine, such as an excavator or a loader. The lubrication system is mounted on drive line fluid connectors of the machine, such as hydraulic or pneumatic hoses. The lubrication system is fully supported by the connectors only and does not require mounting to the machine itself. The lubrication system includes a movable spool powered by the drive fluid of the machine, the spool reciprocating within a sleeve to force lubricant through passages to the work tool. |
| US09010492B2 |
Lubrication structure for engine
A lubrication structure is provided for supplying lubricating oil to a transmission of an engine. The engine includes a mission holder which includes a power transmission mechanism between a main shaft and a countershaft as a unit and is removably mounted in a mission chamber, and a clutch chamber having a clutch mechanism is provided adjacent the mission chamber for transmitting rotation of a crankshaft to the transmission. Two oil introduction ports are provided on the mission holder, which is between the clutch chamber and the mission chamber. The two oil introduction ports enable the two chambers to communicate with each other. Each of the oil introduction ports has an opening provided therein which opens upwardly on a clutch chamber side of the mission holder. |
| US09010490B1 |
Ladder stabilizing apparatus
An apparatus to secure a ladder to a ferromagnetic work surface, such as a metal storage tank, comprises a pair of brackets removably attached near the top of the ladder. The brackets are hinged to magnet mounts, which each hold a permanent magnet that releasably holds the ladder in place against the work surface. The apparatus prevents the ladder from slipping while a worker is climbing the ladder or while working from the ladder. |
| US09010489B1 |
Helix fire escape structure
Improvements in a fire escape having a structure of a Helix/Spiral Cylinder shape. It's a building within a building. It provides a quick and safe evacuation for all fire victims, including the A.D.A., the injured and the elderly. Its spiral design can accommodate a large number of floor levels. It eliminates the hazards acquainted with stairs and elevators. It has the capability of removing some of the smoke from the high-rise fire by way of a metal Ducting System. It draws the smoke into the center smoke shaft. The spiral is a two-way traffic pathway, which offers Fire Department personnel and their equipment a method of upward transportation to any floor-level they need for fighting this fire incident. My design can be retrofitted to any existing building. |
| US09010487B2 |
Safety line anchoring system
A safety line anchor system is provided and includes an elongate member including a threaded stud at one end for threading the member on to a threaded opening in a trench plate, a flange fixed to the stud end of the member above the stud base, the flange having two or more openings provided there through for accepting two or more stabilization bolts, a freely rotable platform attached to the end of the elongate member opposite the stud end, the platform including two or more slots cut there through for accepting safety line attachments, and a crane handle fixed to the rotable platform, the crane handle for accepting a crane hook. |
| US09010485B2 |
Fluid line having a resonator
A fluid line includes a resonator having an inner part and a blow-molded outer part defining an inner surface. The inner and outer parts are fixedly connected. The inner part is an injection-molded part having first and second radial collars spaced axially apart from each other. The inner part defines a radial circumference with a plurality of orifices formed therein. The inner and outer parts are axially one within the other so that there is no throughflow of secondary air between the first and second radial collars and the inner surface of the outer part. The inner and outer parts have a common end whereat they are airtightly connected to each other. The inner part, the radial collars and the inner surface of the outer part conjointly define two resonant chambers operatively connected to fluid in the fluid line via the orifices. |
| US09010480B2 |
Bulldozer
A bulldozer is equipped with a cab, a cooling device, an engine cover, an engine, and an exhaust emission control device. The cooling device is situated behind the cab. The engine cover is situated in front of the cab. The engine is situated inside the engine cover. The engine includes a crank shaft that extends in the longitudinal direction of the bulldozer. The exhaust emission control device includes a main body pipe part and a connecting pipe part connecting to the main body pipe part. The exhaust emission control device cleans the exhaust from the engine inside the main body pipe part. The main body pipe part is situated in the front of the engine. At least a portion of the main body pipe part is situated to overlap with the engine in the front view of the bulldozer. |
| US09010478B2 |
Safety arrangement for a vehicle
The present disclosure relates to a safety arrangement for a vehicle. The safety arrangement comprises a bonnet being displaceable between a closed position, an open position, permitting access to an engine compartment of the vehicle, and a deployed position, in which position there is a gap between the bonnet and the engine compartment. The bonnet is displaceable from the closed position to the deployed position, which is located upwards and rearwards as compared to the closed position. Further, the bonnet is directly openable to the open position both from the closed position and from the deployed position. |
| US09010476B2 |
Saddle-type electric vehicle
In a saddle-type electric vehicle like an electric two-wheeled vehicle, a shaft center of a motor shaft of a traveling motor in a power plant installed between a front wheel and a rear wheel is installed lower than a shaft center of a rearward output shaft, and the whole power plant is installed as low as possible in a state where a front part is at a lower position. Batteries are installed diagonally forward from above the power plant, a gravity center of the batteries and a gravity center of the power plant are arranged to correspond to a roll axis line having the front part which is high. Thus, while the height of the gravity centers approximate the roll axis line of the vehicle body, a composite gravity center of the both is properly set, and balance of handling and motion performance can be improved. |
| US09010471B2 |
Wheel bearing unit, and motor vehicle having wheel bearing unit
A wheel bearing unit comprises an inner ring and an outer ring. The outer ring is mounted rotatably and is arranged concentrically with respect to the inner ring. The inner ring serves to receive a wheel and the outer ring serves for fastening to a wheel support of a motor vehicle. The wheel bearing unit has, between the inner ring and the outer ring, a first ball row and a second ball row which is arranged parallel to the first ball row. A follower is arranged in a rotationally fixed manner with respect to an outer side of the inner ring between the first ball row and the second ball row. The follower is connected directly or indirectly to a rotor of an electric machine in a torque-transmitting manner. |
| US09010466B2 |
Utility vehicle with a continuously variable transmission having a system for selectively establishing a fixed maximum transmission ratio
A continuously variable transmission for a vehicle comprises a primary pulley, a secondary pulley, and a belt entrained around both pulleys in an opposite manner between the fixed and movable sheaves thereof. One pulley carries a selectively deployable stop that may be placed into position to mechanically limit the range of motion between the fixed and movable sheaves. This establishes an actual maximum transmission ratio that is larger than the nominal minimum transmission ratio but smaller than the nominal maximum transmission ratio achievable by the transmission during normal operation thereof. When such a transmission is used on a utility vehicle attached to a substance dispensing applicator operatively driven by the vehicle's engine, the application rate stays substantially constant despite changes in engine speed when the user keeps the transmission upshifted to the actual maximum transmission ratio set by the position of the deployed stop. |
| US09010464B2 |
Drill bits and drilling apparatuses including the same
A roof-bolt drill bit may have a bit body rotatable about a central axis. At least one coupling pocket may be defined in the bit body. At least one cutting element may be at least partially disposed in the at least one coupling pocket. The at least one cutting element may include a cutting face, an element back surface, and an element side surface extending around an outer periphery of the cutting face. The element side surface may include a first element side surface abutting a first pocket side surface of the at least one coupling pocket and a second element side surface abutting a second pocket side surface of the at least one coupling pocket. At least one of the first element side surface and the second element side surface may have a substantially planar surface. |
| US09010460B2 |
System and method for drilling using drilling fluids
A method and a system for detecting or measuring influxes of formation water or brine into a drilling fluid being used to drill a borehole through an earth formation are described. The method and system comprising using an electrode based sensor system to determine changes in capacitance and/or conductance of the drilling fluid. |
| US09010459B2 |
Air compressor system and method of operation
Air compressor systems, upgrade kits, computer readable medium, and methods for controlling an air compressor for improved performance. The methods may include receiving a working air requirement; determining an estimated air pressure of the air compressor to deliver the working air requirement; measuring a pressure of the air compressor; comparing the measured pressure with the calculated estimated air pressure; if the measured pressure of the air compressor is greater than the determined estimated air pressure by a predetermined greater amount, then decreasing an output control of the air compressor; and if the measured pressure of the air compressor is less than the calculated estimated air pressure by a predetermined lesser amount then increasing the output control of the air compressor. The air compressor may be controlled based on a measured pressure of delivered working air. An oil control system may shut off oil to parts of the air compressor. |
| US09010454B2 |
Handheld work apparatus with switchable power
The invention relates to a portable, handheld work apparatus such as a trimmer, a cut-off machine, a chain saw or the like, having a motor (5, 33) to drive a rotating, exchangeable work tool (13). A control unit (15) serves to control the operation of the motor (5, 33). The control unit (15) determines the rotational speed (n) and/or the power (P) of the motor (5, 33). According to the invention, the motor (5, 33) can be operated in a first operating mode (I) with reduced rotational speed (n0) and/or power (P0) and in at least a second operating mode (II) with an increased rotational speed (n1) and/or power (P1). In dependence on a release signal, the control uses exclusively the first operating mode (I) for a limited operation and the second operating mode (II) for an expanded operation. |
| US09010448B2 |
Safety valve with electrical actuator and tubing pressure balancing
A well tool for use with a subterranean well can include a flow passage extending longitudinally through the well tool, an internal chamber containing a dielectric fluid, and a flow path which alternates direction, and which provides pressure communication between the internal chamber and the flow passage. A method of controlling operation of a well tool can include actuating an actuator positioned in an internal chamber of the well tool, a dielectric fluid being disposed in the chamber, and the chamber being pressure balanced with a flow passage extending longitudinally through the well tool, and varying the actuating, based on measurements made by at least one sensor of the well tool. |
| US09010446B2 |
Downhole clamping mechanism
An anchoring system for use with a downhole tool includes a body with anchor members mounted on the body that pivot radially outward from the body and into engagement with an inner surface of a tubular. Curved slots are provided along a portion of the members and a sliding block has a protrusion that projects into the slots. The slots are curved so that when the block is urged axially within the body, the interaction between the slots and protrusions pivots the members radially outward. A piston is urged through the body to drive the block. Optionally, an elongate helical gear may cooperate with grooves formed in an edge of the members so that rotating the gear pivots the members radially outward. |
| US09010442B2 |
Method of completing a multi-zone fracture stimulation treatment of a wellbore
A wellbore servicing tool comprising a housing comprising ports, a triggering system, a first sliding sleeve transitional from a first position to a second position, and a second sliding sleeve transitional from a first position to a second position, wherein, when in the first position, the first sliding sleeve retains the second sliding sleeve in the first position, wherein, when in the first position, the second sliding sleeve prevents a route of fluid communication via the one or more ports of the housing and, when is in the second position, the second sliding sleeve allows fluid communication via the ports, and wherein the triggering system is configured to allow the first sliding sleeve to transition from the first position to the second position responsive to recognition of a predetermined signal comprising a predetermined pressure signal, a predetermined temperature signal, a predetermined flow-rate signal, or combinations thereof. |
| US09010437B2 |
Self-adjusting riser centralizer
A riser tensioner assembly for supporting risers on an offshore drilling platform includes a frame assembly and a plurality of riser centralizers circumferentially spaced about the frame assembly. The riser centralizers each include a clevis supporting roller for bearing on a riser to limit lateral movement of the riser with respect to the frame assembly. The clevis includes an elongated channel along which the roller is movable to accommodate angular movement of the riser with respect to the frame assembly. |
| US09010434B2 |
Method for connecting two coupling parts of a subsea coupling arrangement to each other
A method for connecting coupling parts of a subsea coupling arrangement, the coupling parts having at least one sealing surface, in which the coupling parts are connected by displacing the coupling parts towards each other, wherein a watertight seal is formed when the coupling parts are connected, feeding filtered sea water through a channel into a space between the coupling parts during the displacement, flowing the filtered sea water over the sealing surfaces to prevent particles and dirt from being trapped between the sealing surfaces, and discharging the filtered sea water from the space into surroundings of the subsea coupling arrangement. |
| US09010424B2 |
High permeability frac proppant
Disintegrative particles are designed to be blended with and pumped with typical proppant materials, e.g. sand, ceramics, bauxite, etc, into the fractures of a subterranean formation. With time and/or change in wellbore or environmental condition, these particles will either disintegrate partially or completely, in non-limiting examples, by contact with downhole fracturing fluid, formation water, or a stimulation fluid such as an acid or brine. Once disintegrated, the proppant pack within the fractures will lead to greater open space enabling higher conductivity and flow rates. The disintegrative particles may be made by compacting and/or sintering metal powder particles, for instance magnesium or other reactive metal or their alloys. Alternatively, particles coated with compacted and/or sintered nanometer-sized or micrometer sized coatings could also be designed where the coatings disintegrate faster or slower than the core in a changed downhole environment. |
| US09010423B2 |
Method for the assisted recovery of hydrocarbons in fractured reservoirs
A method for recovering oil from a fractured reservoir having an oil-wettable matrix and comprising at least one injection well and one production well. This method comprises the following steps in such order: a)injecting by an injection well a solution of viscosity-enhancing surfactants, capable of penetrating into the array of fractures, having limited interaction with the matrix, and creating a plug in situ to reduce the perviousness of the fractures and to promote the passage of the solution of step b) into the matrix; b) injecting by an injection well a solution of surfactants, capable of interacting with the matrix to make water-wettable and to extract the oil therefrom; c) injecting by an injection well an aqueous solution to increasing the surface tension, impregnating the matrix and, after the plug in step a) is dissolved by the oil, driving the oil toward the production well. |
| US09010422B2 |
Remote activated deflector
A wellbore y-block junction comprises a first bore channel, a second bore channel, a deflector selectable to a neutral position, to a first bore channel selected position, and to a second bore channel selected position, a radio receiver, and a controller, wherein the controller is configured to command the deflector position to one of the neutral position, the first bore channel selected position, or the second bore channel selected position based on an input from the radio receiver. |
| US09010420B2 |
Sonic oil recovery apparatus for use in a well
A sonic oil recovery apparatus for use in a well has an injector tubing extending interior of the casing of the well, and a resonator tube affixed to or within the injector tubing. The resonator tube has an interior flow pathway so as to allow a fluid to flow therethrough from the injector tubing. The resonator tube is suitable for transmitting an acoustic signal approximately equal to the resonate frequency of a formation in the well. The resonator tube can have a plurality of orifices plates formed therein such that the fluid flowing through the resonator tube generates the acoustic signal. The resonator tube can alternatively be a solid state acoustic resonator therein. |
| US09010419B2 |
Subterranean system and method for treating and producing oil
A method and system for use in association with a subterranean reservoir containing reservoir material, for separating the reservoir material into components and for producing one or more of the reservoir material components at a surface production location. The reservoir material components include one or more liquid components and a solid component. The system includes a subterranean cavern located below the reservoir. A drain extends between the reservoir and the cavern for draining the reservoir material from the reservoir into the cavern so that the reservoir material may be collected and separated into the reservoir material components in the cavern. A production well extends between the cavern and the surface production location for producing one or more of the reservoir material components at the surface production location. Preferably, one or more of the liquid components are produced at the surface production location while retaining the solid component in the cavern. |
| US09010418B2 |
Sucker rod guide
A polymeric rod guide for a sucker rod, said polymeric rod guide having a body surrounding and coaxial with the sucker rod and molded in fixed contact with the rod. The body having a polygonal cross-section and a plurality of blades longitudinally disposed and extending from the body, each blade having a pair of planar longitudinal side walls and an exterior longitudinal edge, each of said blades having a first blade face disposed between a first terminal end of the blade and the exterior longitudinal edge and a second blade face disposed between a second terminal end of the blade and the exterior longitudinal edge, and an area of the body between the longitudinal side wall of a first blade and the longitudinal side wall of an adjacent second blade defines a trough having a plurality of planar surfaces. |
| US09010417B2 |
Downhole screen with exterior bypass tubes and fluid interconnections at tubular joints therefore
An assembly of screens made of connected joints with exterior bypasses that span the threaded connections among the joints features common fluid connections for the bypasses adjacent joint threaded ends that are connected with a coupling. A mandrel spans from one joint to the next inside the threaded coupling and is sealed to the respective bases pipes on opposed ends of the coupling. At each end of the mandrel the surrounding base pipe has openings from the common fluid connection where the bypasses terminate to define an annular flow path between pairs of common fluid connections. The bypasses can have slanted gravel outlet passages or no gravel openings at all. The bypasses can span over screen or blank pipe with an option to mount a shroud over the generally parallel bypasses. |
| US09010416B2 |
Tubular anchoring system and a seat for use in the same
A tubular anchoring system includes a first frustoconical member. Slips in operable communication with the first frustoconical member are radially expandable into an anchoring engagement with a structure in response to longitudinal movement relative to a frustoconical surface of the first frustoconical member. A collar in operable communication with the first frustoconical member is radially expandable into sealing engagement with the structure in response to longitudinal movement relative to a second frustoconical member. A seat in operable communication with the first frustoconical member having a surface configured to be sealingly engagable with a plug runnable thereagainst, is configured and positioned relative to the collar to aid the seat in maintaining a radially expanded configuration against a pressure differential formed across the seat when plugged. |
| US09010412B2 |
Ball drop wellhead control apparatus
A ball drop wellhead control apparatus provides a ball controller between a frac ball drop or frac ball injector used to drop frac balls into a frac fluid stream being pumped into a subterranean well. |
| US09010411B1 |
Downhole tool and method of use
Embodiments of the disclosure pertain to a downhole tool useable for isolating sections of a wellbore that includes a mandrel, the mandrel further having a body comprising an external surface, and an inner bore formed therein; a distal end; and a proximate end; wherein the mandrel is made of composite material, wherein a set of shear threads are disposed along a surface of the inner bore at the proximate end. Embodiments of the tool include a slip disposed about the mandrel, wherein the slip comprises a one-piece configuration. |
| US09010410B2 |
Top drive systems and methods
A system for wellbore operations and methods for use, the wellbore having a wellbore support structure, the system including a hoist subsystem for moving tubulars, a drive subsystem for rotating the tubulars, the drive subsystem releasably connected to the hoist subsystem forming a hoist/drive unit, and powered apparatus for moving the hoist/drive unit, or for moving the hoist subsystem separately. |
| US09010408B1 |
Grazing-angle thermal emission (GATE) and thermal antenna array (TAA) for multi-channel thermal communications
Altering the direction of thermal radiation of any objects into any construction directions including grazing angles. Embodiments of the invention provide a new technique for thermal control and management. |
| US09010403B2 |
Non-electroslag remelting type clean metal ingot mold
A non-electroslag remelting type clean metal ingot mold includes an ingot mold body and a insulating riser arranged on the ingot mold body; an insulated heating and heat preservation device is vertically arranged in the ingot mold body and divides the space in the ingot mold body into a plurality of independent cavity units; and the cavity units are distributed in two rows in the ingot mold body. Because the insulated heating and heat preservation device is arranged in the ingot mold body and divides the space in the ingot mold body into a plurality of independent cavity units, most of impurities and segregates in liquid metals are enriched in the part in contact with the isolation and heat insulation mechanism during the directional solidification and crystallization of the liquid metals and the enriched alloy segregates, and the impurities can be easily eliminated by utilizing flame or other processing methods. |
| US09010402B2 |
Method and apparatus for interlocking load carrying elements
A method for interlocking structural steel components with a metal-filled interlock is disclosed herein. The method comprises placing a mold about aligned contoured portions of structural steel components and attaching a crucible and a spout to the mold. The crucible is charged with exothermic reactive metals which are ignited, forming a molten metal filler. The molten metal filler melts a metal plug in the crucible or spout and the molten metal filler flows into the mold and about the aligned contoured portions of the structural steel components. Cooling of the molten metal filler forms a metal-filled interlock. Molds for performing the disclosed method are also disclosed herein. |
| US09010395B2 |
Method and device for the automated production of dry fibrous preforms
A device for laying up a dry preform having an elongated shape includes a punch that reproduces the elongated shape of the dry preform, a depositing assembly, and a mobile carrier that moves at least one of the punch and the depositing assembly. The depositing assembly deposits, onto the punch, a fibrous band including a small amount of binding agent to make up the dry preform having a cross-section with at least two non-coplanar wings. The depositing assembly also includes pressing devices that press the fibrous band, a channel that pre-shapes the fibrous band to have the cross-section, and a calibration device that applies a normal pressure to all surfaces of the dry preform that are opposite from the punch while cooling the pressed portion of the fibrous band to control a thickness of the dry preform having the cross-section. |
| US09010392B2 |
Pneumatic radial tire with tread having thin circumferential groove and lug groove
A pneumatic radial tire in which a plurality of land portion rows 2 are formed by a plurality of main grooves that extend in the circumferential direction on a tread portion of a tire, and a thin groove 3 that extends in the tire circumferential direction is formed in at least one shoulder land portion row 2A that is positioned on the tread end among the plurality of land portion rows. A land portion 5 that is positioned between, the thin groove 3 and the tread end 4 is partitioned into a plurality of blocks 5a by a lug groove 6 that extends in the tire width direction and whose maximum groove depth is set deeper than the groove depth of the thin groove, and the groove depth of the lug groove continuously changes so as to become a maximum at an intermediate position between the thin groove and the tread end. According to the present invention, it is possible to provide a pneumatic radial tire that can achieve improved drainage performance. |
| US09010389B2 |
Motorcycle tire
A motorcycle tire comprises a tread portion grooved so that twenty narrow annular zones thereof each have a land ratio of 70 to 90%, wherein the twenty narrow annular zones are defined by equally dividing the developed tread width along the tread face by twenty. On each side of the tire equator, main oblique grooves and auxiliary oblique grooves are arranged alternately in the tire circumferential direction and inclined to one tire circumferential direction. The main oblique grooves on each side of the tire equator extend beyond the tire equator to have axially inner ends located on the other side of the tire equator. The auxiliary oblique grooves on each side of the tire equator do not extend beyond the tire equator to have axially inner ends located on the same side of the tire equator. |
| US09010385B2 |
Connection device for a system for filling jars for the production of nuclear fuel
A system for filling a jar with powdery material, for example for the manufacture of nuclear fuel, including a device for connection between the jar and a material feed system, where the device includes: a stationary connection portion connected to the feed system, a connection portion which moves relative to the stationary connection portion intended to be connected to the container's filling orifice, where the moving connection portion includes in the area of a downstream end a lip seal to achieve a tight connection by contact with the contours of the jar's filling orifice and where the said downstream end is connected to the stationary connection portion by a bellows so as to provide mechanical disengagement between the downstream end of the moving connection portion and the stationary connection portion. |
| US09010382B2 |
Apparatus and method for filling multi-chamber containers with bulk materials
An apparatus and method are provided for filling multi-chamber containers with different loose bulk materials. The apparatus and method may be particularly well-suited to packaging at least one bulk material, which is susceptible to water, chemicals, or other contaminants, with at least one other bulk material. The apparatus is a machine that includes separate hoppers for handling the separate bulk materials, and directs the separate bulk materials into different chambers of a multi-chamber container, which is then transported away from the machine for storage or use. The machine may include one or more movable hoppers supported on tracks, for moving the bulk materials to the hoppers that direct the bulk materials into different chambers of the multi-chamber container. A controller and data logger may be provided to control the apparatus and record the quantity and/or weight of the contents of each multi-chamber container. |
| US09010376B2 |
Apparatus for a pneumatic relay venting pressure dynamic feedback compensator
A relay includes a balance plug, a vent passage, and a flow passage. The first passage fluidly coupled to the balance plug and the vent passage. |
| US09010375B2 |
Electromagnetic valve equipped with manual operation element including safety device
On an outer surface of an electromagnetic valve body, a manual operation element is provided slidably horizontally, and a slide member is provided slidably in a direction orthogonal to a sliding direction of the manual operation element. The slide member is movable to a lock position and a non-lock position. At the lock position, the slide member is retained by the manual operation element to lock the manual operation element at a non-switch position. At the non-lock position, the slide member unlocks the manual operation element to allow the manual operation element to move toward a switch position. |
| US09010367B2 |
Electronic proportioner using continuous metering and correction
The controller of the plural component proportioner (10) dispenses both components (or all three if a three component material) as necessary to maintain the correct mix ratio. The fluid displacement measuring technique described allows this proportioning to take place with the “A” or main component pump always able to supply fluid to the spray gun without being stopped. The “B” component, at a higher pressure, is added as necessary to control ratio. The control can determine whether the pumps were properly loaded with fluid, and the fluid was properly compressed for accurate measurement. This technique allows for the proportioned fluids to be provided to the spray gun(s) at high flow rates and consistent spray pressure without interruption. |
| US09010365B2 |
Breather with independent inlet/outlet flow paths
The present invention provides an apparatus and method for filtering fluid in a breather assembly and providing uncontaminated fluid to a reservoir. The breather allows in-take fluid traveling through a first flow path to be filtered before entering the reservoir through a first directional valve. The breather also allows exhaust fluid traveling through a second flow path, separate from the first flow path, to exit through a second directional valve. |
| US09010364B2 |
Combination relief valve and injection fitting
A valve for regulating the flow of fluid through an access port in a fluid chamber includes a body having a first end and a second end, the second end being located in the access port and the first end protruding outside of the access port. An axial bore extends from the first end to the second end, an injection fitting is formed at the first end of the body in fluid communication with the axial bore, and the second end of the body includes a selective sealing interface. The body forms a sealing interface with a threaded inner wall surface of the access port. A one-way valve assembly is positioned within the axial bore, and is arranged to permit a flow of fluid therethrough in a downstream direction and prevent the flow of fluid therethrough in an upstream direction. A bypass passageway extends from the selective sealing interface separate from the axial bore. A connecting passageway connects the bypass passageway with the axial bore upstream of the one-way valve assembly. |
| US09010363B2 |
Drain valve
A drain valve allows for drainage of fluids while preventing backflow of gases from a drainage system through the drain valve. A drain valve can have a first, sealed position in which a component of the valve seals an opening through the valve and a second, open position in which the component of the valve is separated from the opening to allow a fluid to drain through the valve. When the fluid has drained through, the component of the valve can return to the closed position. The valve can include a pressure relief conduit to help equalize pressure across the valve and permit unrestrained draining of fluid through the valve. |
| US09010362B2 |
Pressure control reservoir with check valve
A pressure control reservoir includes a valve ball and a shaft which is movable to move the valve ball to open or close a fluid path leading to a fluid reservoir chamber. The shaft has a tip with a slant surface which has a peripheral edge of a polygonal shape with even numbers of vertices and is inclined to the longitudinal center line of the shaft. Such a polygonal geometry increases an entire or inclined length of the slant surface, which results in an increased range where an angle which the slant surface makes with a plane extending perpendicular to an axial direction of the tip is permitted to be increased without causing the point of contact between the valve ball and the slant surface to be shifted close to the tip of the slant surface when the tip of the shaft moves the valve ball. |
| US09010361B2 |
Control valve assembly
Embodiments of the invention provide a control valve assembly and method of fault detection that includes adjusting a valve between an operating position and a fault position in response to various fault conditions. The control valve assembly is adjustable to accommodate fault conditions encountered in a variety of electrochemical deionization systems. |
| US09010360B1 |
Flow control/shut-off valve assembly
A flow valve assembly includes a valve operable between an open position and a closed position and a controller operatively coupled to the valve to operate the valve between the open position and the closed position. A mechanically or electrically operated assembly is provided to determine an amount of fluid flow through the valve when the valve is in the open position. A mechanically or electrically operated mechanism moves the valve from the open position to the closed position when the amount of fluid flow exceeds a predetermined value. A method of operating the valve is also provided. |
| US09010358B2 |
Foot pedal for automated dump station
A foot pedal mechanism for an automated dump station includes a safety release functionality so that when the foot pedal is secured in a closed position and excessive force is applied to the foot pedal, the foot pedal and the locking mechanisms are not damaged. |
| US09010354B2 |
Easy-flow valve
A quick and efficient method to flush out engines, and appropriate machinery and tools for carrying out this operation. The machinery/tools are (a) a flange; and (b) a self-sealing quick connect-disconnect male-female coupling that connects to and through the center of the flange, terminates at a specified distance on the interior of a surface ending with threads or barbs or a quick disconnect, and is attached to a y-shaped connector, to provide a liquid to a cooling system for the engine. |
| US09010350B2 |
Method of hot tapping into a pipe
A hot tapping assembly for hot tapping into a multiple string configuration to obtain access to the production tubing without removing outer layers of casing, the hot tapping assembly including a hot tapping clamp and a hot tapping seal assembly. In one embodiment, the hot tapping clamp includes a clamp plate having an access bore. The clamp plate can engage with an outer surface of a pipe. In another embodiment, the hot tapping seal assembly can engage with the hot tapping clamp, and includes a hot tapping tubular that can engage with the outer surface of the pipe through the hot tapping clamp's access bore. |
| US09010349B1 |
Bouldering mat and tent combination
A bouldering mat/tent combination includes a mat having a first mat member and a second mat member hingedly connected to the first mat member along a transverse seam so that the mat is convertible between an open mat position and a closed mat position. A first storage pouch is attached to or defined by the mat. A tent membrane member is disposable within the first storage pouch. The tent membrane can be releasably connected to the mat with one or more releasable fasteners. |
| US09010348B1 |
Automobile display canopy and anchor system
An automobile display canopy with an anchor system for securing the canopy to the ground using the automobile itself. The general components of the present invention are a collapsible canopy including at least four canopy legs, and four anchor platforms which hold the canopy in place and allow a vehicle to drive onto the plates, thereby securing the entire system to the ground. The anchors may include a single tire stop, signaling to the driver when the wheel reaches a stopping point. An alternative embodiment may include both a front stop and a rear stop. The legs of the canopy must be collapsible. They may telescope or be disassembled temporarily. |
| US09010340B2 |
Nail polish remover method and device
Nail polish remover strips are pre-sized for toe or fingernails and applied to a painted or artificial nail and left thereon for a predetermined period of time to dissolve the nail polish and/or nail bonding agent. Preferably a color change occurs to depict the appropriate dwelling time to dissolve the nail polish. Certain embodiments include odor reducing components. Preferably the strips are layered composites having an exterior odor impervious material, a layer of encapsulated acetone or nail polish removing agent, an absorbent layer, and a peelable backing, with the strips being sized to accommodate contact with a person's nail. |
| US09010330B2 |
Patient interface systems
A patient interface structure for delivery of respiratory therapy to a patient includes a front plate configured to conform to the shape of the patient's face; a mouth cushion defining a breathing chamber and provided to the front plate and configured to seal around the patient's mouth; and a nasal cushion configured to seal the patient's nasal airways. The nasal cushion is supported by the mouth cushion, does not contact a bridge of the patient's nose in use, and extends at least partially into the breathing chamber. A patient interface system includes a patient interface structure and a patient interface structure positioning system configured to position, stabilize and secure the patient interface structure in sealing engagement with the patient's face. |
| US09010329B2 |
Electronically-controlled, high pressure flow control valve and method of use
A fluid flow control valve comprises (a) a high pressure region adapted to contain a fluid at its supercritical or nearcritical temperature and pressure conditions and connected via an orifice to a low pressure region, (b) a seat adjacent the orifice, (c) a sealing element positionable against the seat to form a seal between the high pressure region and the low pressure region, and (d) an electrically and/or electronically controlled actuator operable to move the sealing element against and/or away from the seat to allow control of fluid flow from the high pressure region to the low pressure region. In a specific embodiment, the high pressure region contains a fluid at its supercritical or nearcritical temperature and pressure conditions. The valve may be used, for example, to provide very low flow rates, for example, for supercritical fluid chromatography, supercritical fluid extraction, critical point drying, supercritical fluid cleaning, and supercritical fluid separation methods. In another embodiment, the valve is suitable for use in methods of delivering a biologically active substance to a patient in need thereof. |
| US09010327B2 |
Energy relief control in a mechanical ventilator
The present invention relates to a solution for controlling the pressure/flow of breathing gas to a mechanical ventilator (4) by using an energy of breathing analysis and further to provide a pressure relief during exhalation and a trigger determination when to start the pressure relief using energy content of breathing in analysis for determining a pressure curve form during at least a portion of the expiration phase. |
| US09010325B2 |
Nasal delivery devices
A nasal delivery device for and method of delivering particulate substance to the nasal airway of a subject, the delivery device comprising: a body assembly (3) including a mouthpiece unit (9) which includes a mouthpiece through which the subject in use exhales, and a substance-supply unit which is fluidly connected to the mouthpiece unit and actuatable to provide particulate substance for delivery to the nasal airway of the subject; wherein the body assembly is configured to receive a replaceable nosepiece unit (5) which includes a nosepiece and contains a container containing particulate substance. |
| US09010324B2 |
Positive airway pressure device
A positive airway pressure (PAP) device for supplying a flow of breathable gas to a patient includes a first housing; a flow generator provided in the first housing, the flow generator configured to generate a flow of breathable gas; a second housing configured to be connected to the first housing, the second housing including a channel having an inlet configured to receive the flow of breathable gas and an outlet configured to discharge the flow of breathable gas, wherein the first housing is provided on top of the second housing such that a footprint of the PAP device is not substantially increased beyond a footprint of the second housing. |
| US09010322B2 |
Gastric insertion confirmation device and related methods therefor
A confirmation device. The device includes a housing having a central passageway and a secondary passageway extending from the central passageway. The device also has a negative pressure member in communication with the secondary passageway and an indicator mechanism in fluid communication with the secondary passageway for visually indicating the presence of one or more components within the secondary passageway. The negative pressure member is operable to draw fluid across the indicator mechanism. |
| US09010315B2 |
Solar collector based on carbon nanotubes and solar heating system using the same
A solar collector includes a substrate having a top surface and a bottom surface opposite to the upper surface, a sidewall, a transparent cover, and a heat-absorbing layer. The sidewall is arranged on the periphery of the top surface of the substrate. The transparent cover is disposed on the sidewall opposite to the substrate to form a sealed chamber. The heat-absorbing layer is disposed on the upper surface of the substrate and includes a carbon nanotube film having a plurality of carbon nanotubes. The carbon nanotubes in the carbon nanotube film are joined end-to-end. |
| US09010311B1 |
Apparatus, system and method for using a diamond-impregnated wire to cut an object
An apparatus, a system and a method may use a diamond-impregnated wire loop to cut an underwater pipeline. The apparatus may have a frame, a carriage attached to the frame and/or pulleys connected to the carriage. The diamond-impregnated wire loop may be connected to the pulleys. The carriage may move relative to the frame to direct the diamond-impregnated wire loop in a forward direction relative to the frame and/or through the pipeline. |
| US09010309B2 |
Ball throwing machine and method
A ball throwing machine can include a hopper for receiving one or more balls and a ball delivery device. The ball delivery device can be used to throw or pitch a ball from the hopper to a user of the machine. The ball delivery device can include wheels to impart speed to the ball and a direction system to control the projection angle of the ball. The direction system can control at least one of the up and down angle and the side to side angle of the ball as it is thrown, among possibly other throwing parameters. A controller may be provided for controlling operation of the ball throwing machine. |
| US09010303B2 |
System and method of detecting hydraulic start-of-injection
This disclosure provides system and method that can determine hydraulic start of injection (SOI) in engines using an in-cylinder pressure sensor. The system and method determine apparent heat release rate (AHRR) curve data for the cylinder from the pressure information provided by the in-cylinder pressure sensors, and the hydraulic SOI from the derivative of the AHRR curve data. The system and method provide diagnostic, control and/or compensation opportunities for fuel injector operation in high pressure fuel rail engine systems without use of expensive or complex fuel injector components. |
| US09010301B2 |
Reciprocating internal combustion engine with two-stage exhaust system
Two-stage exhaust apparatus for a reciprocating internal combustion engine having one or more cylinders each with at least one piston and at least one exhaust port, the apparatus including a first-stage jet port in each cylinder, the jet port configured to open to release high-pressure exhaust gas to a high-pressure motor prior to exhaust-port opening. |
| US09010298B2 |
Rollover detection device for general-purpose engine
A general-purpose engine equipped with a rollover detection device for a general-purpose engine that is used for driving a driving unit such as a rammer. An oil pan is provided in a crankcase of an engine main body, and lubricating oil is supplied to a lubrication part of the engine main body by an oil pump. A suction port of a lubricating oil intake part that guides the lubricating oil to an intake port of the oil pump is provided in a substantially central part in front-rear and left-right directions of the oil pan. Therefore, even when the general-purpose engine rolls over in the front-rear or left-right direction, the lubricating oil does not enter the lubricating oil intake part. Detecting whether or not the lubricating oil is discharged from the oil pump allows detection of a rollover of the general-purpose engine. |
| US09010297B2 |
Aluminum alloy member, aluminum alloy piston for internal combustion engine and manufacturing method thereof
A piston for an internal combustion engine includes a piston body made of an aluminum alloy material containing silicon and having a piston ring groove formed therein and an anodic oxide film formed on the piston ring groove, wherein a metal containing nickel and zinc is deposited around silicon particles in the anodic oxide film. |
| US09010293B2 |
Combustion control via homogeneous combustion radical ignition (HCRI) or partial HCRI in cyclic IC engines
A process is provided for improving combustion control and fuel efficiency in rotary and reciprocating IC engines by enabling leaner combustion at higher compression ratios using less heat for ignition. Embodiments employ secondary chambers of minimal total volume within a cylinder periphery. These chambers communicate with a main chamber via conduits and enable a radical ignition (“RI”) species generation and supply process that starts in earlier cycles to be augmented and used in later cycles. Measures regulate the RI species generated and provided to the main chamber. These species alter dominant chain-initiation reactions of the combustion ignition mechanism. Also employed when preferable are fluids of higher heat of vaporization and volatility but lower ignitability than the fuel. This process improves combustion in radical ignition engines and radical augmented spark and compression ignition engines. |
| US09010292B2 |
Laser spark plug and prechamber module for same
A laser spark plug, in particular for an internal combustion engine of a motor vehicle, is described. A connection arrangement is provided in an end region of the laser spark plug facing the combustion chamber. The connection arrangement allow the laser spark plug to be connected to a prechamber module. |
| US09010289B2 |
Control device for hydraulic variable valve timing mechanism
In a hydraulic variable valve timing mechanism including a lock pin that locks a vane rotor and a housing against relative rotation in the most retarding phase, a specified angle α is set so that release of the lock pin is started at a time when positive cam torque acts on the vane rotor. When the crank angle reaches the specified angle α, supply of hydraulic pressure to the advancing oil chamber is started to release the lock pin from the engagement with the lock hole, thereby enabling a reliable release of the lock pin prior to start of change of valve timing. |
| US09010288B2 |
Six-stroke engine
A six-stroke engine includes a cylinder, a piston, a cylinder head, a combustion chamber, cylinder injector, a spark plug, an intake port, an exhaust port, an intake valve, an exhaust valve, a valve gear, and a control device. The valve gear operates the intake valve and the exhaust valve to execute six strokes including an intake stroke, a compression stroke without ignition, an expansion stroke without combustion, a compression stroke with ignition, an expansion stroke with combustion, and an exhaust stroke in this order. The control device is programmed to cause the cylinder injector to inject fuel and to energize the spark plug in the compression stroke with ignition. |
| US09010278B2 |
Animal run line cornering mechanism
An animal run line cornering mechanism with a corner component and leash component. The corner component is dumbbell shaped with a narrow body, a ball at one end with an aperture for the line, and a support attachment. The leash component has a tubular line ring with a shaped gap so that it appears C-shaped in end view, and leash ring attached to the line ring. The gap is wider than the corner component body and narrower than the line so that it is captured by the line. The line ring diameter is larger than the corner component ball and line diameters so that it moves freely along the line. The gap is defined by opposed edges of the line ring walls that taper to a rounded apexes. When the body hits the a tapered line ring wall, the body slides along the wall until it slides through the gap. |
| US09010277B2 |
Method of a cattle foot-bath system
A method for a cattle foot-bath system, specifically adapted to mix and charge foot-bath troughs with repeatably precise quantities of chemical treatments. The system administers a concentrated medicinal agent, such as a bactericide, a fungicide, or a viruscide, for the treatment of cattle feet, and includes a day-tank feed valve, which may be a three-way or interlocked valve, for controlling an infeed flow of the concentrated medicinal agent fed into a day tank, which may be mounted to a portable tote-tank containing the concentrated medicinal agent. A day-tank drain valve controls an outlet flow of the concentrated medicinal agent drained from the day-tank, and the day-tank holds a set quantity of the concentrated medicinal agent. A footbath then receives a quantity of dilution water and the set quantity of the concentrated medicinal agent from the day-tank. |
| US09010276B1 |
Vacuum brush
A brush having a tubular housing and a comb rotationally mounted within a nozzle inlet of the housing, the comb having a plurality of channels there through with bristles secured to the comb between pairs of the channels, and a pivotal lever engaged with the comb for rotation between obverse and inverse positions. |
| US09010272B2 |
Device and method for depositing a powder mixture for forming an object with composition gradients
A device for depositing a mixture of powders to form an object with composition gradients, including: a plurality of tanks respectively configured to contain different powders; a powder mixer placed under the tanks and including a rotatably mounted mixing member; a plurality of powder dispensing mechanisms respectively cooperating with the tanks, and each configured to regulate mass flow rate of the powder escaping from a respective of the tanks towards the mixer; a powder mixture collector placed under the mixer; and a powder mixture dispenser placed under the collector. |
| US09010269B2 |
Sterilization challenge specimen holder counter
A counting device includes a shaft, a handle affixed to a first end of the shaft, and a locking unit mounted in the handle spaced from the shaft. A locking plate has an opening for accommodating the shaft. The locking plate has a plurality of recesses facing the locking unit for cooperating with the locking unit. A position indicating assembly is coupled to the shaft to move as the handle is rotated. The recesses are arranged in a circular pattern on the locking plate such that the locking unit engages each recess as the handle is rotated around the shaft. The recesses are configured to permit one-way rotation of the handle. |
| US09010268B2 |
Vehicle display apparatus
A vehicle display apparatus includes a first partition member and a second partition member disposed in front of a display screen of a display panel. Each of the first and second partition members includes a window portion. The first and second partition members may be set in separated positions or in overlapping positions. In the separated positions, the first and second partition members are spaced apart from each other along the display screen. In the overlapping positions, the first partition member is separated forward from the display screen, the second partition member is located between the first partition member and the display screen, and the window portions of the first and second partition members overlap. |
| US09010267B2 |
Center-less pointer type display apparatus
A center-less pointer type display apparatus includes a pointer moving device having a pointer section and a carrying section, and a containing case having a case body and a dial plate. A pointer accommodated in the containing case indicates a scale on the dial plate. The carrying section has a guide rail and a wire. A spring is interposed between a first support member and a second support member of the pointer section so that a lower portion and an upper portion of the spring push the first support member and the second support member respectively, and thereby holding an upper portion and a lower portion of the guide rail respectively. A wire fixing section is provided at an intermediate portion of the pointer section on a line connecting the upper pulley and the lower pulley. |
| US09010265B1 |
Mooring line cover and method
A cover for a mooring line having a terminal eyelet, the cover having a sheath, with a pair of hook and loop strips positioned on opposite surfaces of the sheath. The cover is a single piece configured to enclose both a terminal eyelet and linear line section of a mooring line and also has a strap attached to the sheath proximate the linear line section to retain the sheath in position on the linear line section. A method for using the cover to protect mooring lines is also provided. |
| US09010264B1 |
Method for using a rat guard
A rat guard and method utilizing a flexible shield affixed to a plastic sheath positioned on a mooring line to prevent entry onto or exit from the ship by vermin. An electric grid is positioned on an insulated pad on the sheath which is electrically connected to the shield for receiving power from an acoustical generator also connected to the shield and spaced therefrom. The acoustical generator directs ultrasonic acoustic signals in a variable frequency range toward the shield to frighten rats or other vermin therefrom. Should the acoustical signals not deter the vermin, the electric grid will shock any vermin making contact therewith to cause harm and frighten. The shield provides another obstacle to prevent advancement and is affixed to the sheath on the mooring line. The shield is flexible and remains in place during high winds and other adverse weather conditions. |
| US09010263B2 |
Device for maneuvering a watercraft
A device for maneuvering a watercraft includes a rudder trunk and a receiving shaft, wherein a first part of the rudder trunk is disposed in the receiving shaft in such a manner that there is an intermediate space between the first part of the rudder trunk and a wall of the receiving shaft. A second part of the rudder trunk projects from the receiving shaft, wherein the intermediate space has an apparatus for clamping the first part of the rudder trunk over a clamping height. A method for manufacturing a device for maneuvering a watercraft is also provided, wherein the manufacturing expenditure for the rudder trunk is reduced and the installation process of the rudder trunk is simplified. |
| US09010253B2 |
Under-way transfer vehicles and system
This is a vehicle transfer system to connect a roadway vehicle such as a bus to and from a train either when stopped or moving. It mounts the bus end or ends each on the swivel end of a railway car. The bus end which couples a railway car has wheels that retract to clear from the track. All wheels of the bus are lifted if the bus is supported on a railway car at each end. Automatic couplers are provided to couple to a moving train. If the bus is only supported at the front on a swivel coupling car it can have hi-rail retractable swivel truck wheels lowered to the rails to guide the rear of the bus around sharp tram curves. |
| US09010251B2 |
Urban transport installation using track ropes
Overhead public transport installation for urban and peri-urban environment using track ropes with overhead stations, each comprising a platform situated below the level of the boarding/disembarkation platforms and consistent with the overhead clearance of the road transport system in terms of the difference in level that corresponds to the sag in the track ropes. |
| US09010250B1 |
Fuze pull pin detent device
A grenade fuze assembly includes a fuze body and a striker lever fixed to the fuze body with a pull pin. A circular pull ring is attached to the pull pin. A detent device is disposed on a top portion of the fuze body and a top portion of the striker lever. The detent device includes four sides with a boss formed on an exterior of one of the four sides. The boss includes a curved slot for receiving and holding the pull ring. A pair of opposed locking tabs on opposite interior sides of the detent device engage the top portion of the fuze body. The detent device secures the pull ring to prevent accidental removal of the pull pin when the grenade is dropped and to prevent undesired noise cause by movement of the pull pin and pull ring. |
| US09010245B2 |
Operation of a cold foil apparatus by a printing press
A method of transferring a transfer foil having an image forming layer through a transfer gap of a printing press under a foil cycle timing control that is selectively changeable such that it can be turned on, turned off, or is adjustable in its frequency and period of operation as a function of operating parameters of the press. |
| US09010242B2 |
Method and device for controlling the register settings of a printing press
A method for controlling register settings of a printing press, includes rotating imaging cylinders of a first print unit and a second print unit, located downstream of the first print unit in a movement direction of a print medium, at a rotational speed to print an image on the print medium. The method includes of changing a length of the print image to a pre-determined length. The method further includes changing a register setting of the imaging cylinder of the second print unit based on the predetermined change in length of the print image to avoid misalignment of the print image printed by the first and the second print units on the print medium. Changing the register setting is dependent on a length of a section of the print medium between the first and the second print units. A device for controlling register settings of a printing press is also disclosed. |
| US09010217B2 |
Bicycle pedals with locking function
A bicycle pedal with a locking function has a base and a securing member. The base is positioned on a side of the bicycle and has a U-shaped main body and a through hole disposed on the main body. The securing member has a securing rod with an end attached to the bicycle and disposed through the through hole, and a stopping portion disposed at another end of the securing rod. wherein the main body is capable of sliding along the securing rod between a locking position and a non-locking position, and when the main body is at the locking position, the main body moves to one end of the securing rod and pushes against the stopping portion to prevent wheels from rotating, and when the main body is at the non-locking position, the main body moves to another end of the securing rod to release the wheels. |
| US09010211B2 |
Shifter apparatus with adjustable shift stick length and tension selection features
A remote shifter apparatus for use in a manual transmission equipped vehicle includes a base, a length adjustable shift stick, a transmission shift lever engaging fastener and a linkage directly coupling the stick to the fastener to translate shift stick movement to the transmission lever. The shift stick is free to rotate laterally and longitudinally relative to the vehicle drive axis and about a ball joint to cause the transmission lever to be moved through its full range of motion for each gear. A mechanism is provided for enabling adjustment of the length of the shift stick to accommodate selective variations in throw length. The ball joint frictional relationship between shift stick and base is also selectively adjustable to provide a customizable shift feel to improve feedback to the driver. |
| US09010203B2 |
Apparatus and method for examining the internal wall of a portion of a tube, particularly for evaluating the extent of degradation of a plastic tube
Apparatus for examining the internal wall of a tube by turning back a portion of a tube the cross section of which is open along an arch of circumference, particularly over approximately one quarter of a circumference, comprising: two adjacent parallel bars (3a, 3b), which are mounted such that they can slide in a structure (2) and which can be moved within their plane, about which bars the concave side of the open portion (1) of the tube can be engaged, with the geometric axis of the tube parallel to the bars; a pushing means (P) for pushing in a direction substantially orthogonal to the mean plane of the bars and capable of coming to rest against the exterior convex region of the tube portion (1); and a parting means (9) capable of spacing the bars apart in response to the pushing thrust applied to the convex region of the tube portion, the whole assembly being designed to allow the portion of the tube to be turned back on each side of the pushing region. |
| US09010199B2 |
Stator of torque sensor
A stator includes: cylindrical stator cores, each of which is formed of a laminated structure of electromagnetic steel sheets and at which an exciting coil and a detection coil are wound; and a mounting seat portion that is fixedly fitted to axial end faces of the stator cores. Insertion holes through which inserting bolts are passed are formed in the mounting seat portion. |
| US09010190B2 |
Stress isolated MEMS structures and methods of manufacture
A MEMS pressure sensor may be manufactured to include a backing substrate having a diaphragm backing portion and a pedestal portion. A diaphragm substrate may be manufactured to include a pedestal portion and a diaphragm that is mounted to the diaphragm backing portion of the backing substrate to form a stress isolated MEMS die. The pedestal portions of the backing and diaphragm substrates form a pedestal of the stress isolated MEMS die. The pedestal is configured for isolating the diaphragm from stresses including packaging and mounting stress imparted on the stress isolated MEMS die. |
| US09010189B2 |
Device for acquiring and processing sensor measured values and for controlling actuators
A device for acquiring and processing sensor measured values and/or for controlling actuators has a base housing, sensors and/or actuators attached to the base housing, a cover that can be connected to the base housing to cover the sensors and/or actuators, and a circuit board with control electronics. To mount the circuit board easily and effect secure contact of the sensors therewith, the circuit board is securely connected to the inner side of the cover using press-fit connectors, the circuit board has electrically active first contact faces on its side remote from the cover, the sensors and/or actuators have electrically active second contact faces on their sides facing the cover, and the second contact faces of the sensors and/or actuators are connected to the first contact faces via electrically conductive contact springs. |
| US09010184B2 |
MEMS devices sensing both rotation and acceleration
A MEMS device comprises a proof mass suspended above a substrate, one or more driving combs, and one or more sensing combs. During operation, a DC actuating potential in series with an AC modulation potential is applied to the proof mass, and an AC actuating potential is applied to the one or more driving combs such that the proof mass moves in an oscillatory manner. An inertial sensing system further comprises a sensing element configured to detect a rotation information coupled with an AC signal and an acceleration information coupled with a DC signal. |
| US09010179B2 |
Device for measuring the ionization current in a radiofrequency ignition system for an internal combustion engine
A device for radiofrequency ignition of an internal combustion engine, including a power supply circuit including a transformer with a secondary winding connected to at least one resonator that has a resonant frequency in excess of 1 MHz and including two electrodes configured to generate a spark to initiate combustion of a combustible mixture in a cylinder of the engine in response to an ignition command. A measuring capacitor is connected in series between the secondary winding and the resonator, a measurement circuit measures a current at terminals of the measuring capacitor, the current providing an electrical image of how combustion is progressing, and a protection circuit is connected between the capacitor and the measurement circuit and is configured to spare the current measurement acquisition time from electrical effects caused by the ignition command. |
| US09010176B2 |
Scour sensor and method of using same
A scour sensor and method of detecting scour in the bed of a body of water as well as a sensor and method for determining the subgrade modulus of a subgrade are provided. The scour sensor includes an elongated rod that can be driven into the bed of a body of water such that a portion of the rod is cantilevered from the bed into the water. The rod has a known dynamic characteristic that is variable depending on the amount of the rod that is embedded in the subgrade. In one implementation, the known characteristic is the natural frequency of the rod. The scour sensor further includes a sensor element for monitoring a dynamic characteristic of the rod. Methods of using and calibrating a scour sensor are also provided. Further, the sensor may be used to determine a subgrade modulus of the subgrade. |
| US09010174B2 |
Method and device for the membrane-based analysis of gas components
A method and a device for the analysis of gas components of a matrix employ two sensors, which each comprise a cavity enclosed by a membrane. Both membranes, each on one side of the matrix and on the other side, are exposed to a purge gas and subsequently, the timeline of the differential pressure Δps starting at a start time tA is measured, which is created between the sensors as a consequence of permeation of gas components of the matrix and/or the purge gas through both membranes. From the timeline, a point of time tE is determined, at which the measured differential pressure equals the differential pressure at the point of time tA, whereby the gas component of the matrix, which is different from the purge gas, and its genesis is determined from the time difference Δt=tE−tA. |
| US09010167B2 |
Shaping apparatus and method of shaping a workpiece
A shaping apparatus for shaping a workpiece. The apparatus comprises first and second pairs of shaping members and a spacer located between the first and second pairs of shaping members. The first pair of shaping members comprises a material having a first linear coefficient of thermal expansion, and the second pair of shaping members comprises a material having a third linear coefficient of thermal expansion. The first linear coefficient of thermal expansion is higher than the second linear coefficient of thermal expansion such that on heating of the apparatus, thermal expansion of the shaping members causes the first pair of shaping members to expand outwardly, and the second pair of shaping members to expand inwardly. |
| US09010162B2 |
Retractable key storage apparatus with original key adaptor
The invention provides an apparatus to retractably store multiple keys. The apparatus is designed to permit a user to install up to eight (8) custom keys in a compact “key wallet.” Individual keys are pivotally deployed by pressing a designated button on the apparatus and are returned to a stowed position by rotating the key back into the apparatus until it locks into position. The apparatus uses a spring-loaded key release mechanism to release and retract the keys. |
| US09010161B2 |
Protective device, particularly for a lock of a door or leaf
A protective device, particularly for a lock of a door or leaf, comprising a covering element which is associated slidingly with a plate that can be fixed to the door or leaf and can be positioned selectively so as to close an opening for access to the lock which is provided in the plate. Two pins are associated transversely with the plate and are adapted to block temporarily the sliding of the covering element with respect to the plate. The device has at least one cam, freely mounted rotatably within a cavity provided in the plate. At least one first recess and at least one second recess are provided in the lateral surface of the at least one cam, which have, in plan view, a mutually different shape and are adapted respectively to allow and prevent the sliding of the covering element. |
| US09010151B2 |
Glass sheet cutting method
A glass sheet cutting device fuses and divides a glass substrate using a preset cutting line as a boundary while supplying an assist gas and a laser beam from above the glass substrate along the preset cutting line of the glass substrate. The glass sheet cutting device includes a first laser irradiator for radiating a fusing laser beam and a second laser irradiator for radiating an annealing laser beam. Through a fusing gap formed between fused end surfaces by fusing, the second laser irradiator radiates the annealing laser beam obliquely from above onto the fused end surface to be annealed. |
| US09010150B2 |
Vial and method for producing the same
A method for producing a vial with low alkali elution by removing a deteriorated region caused by processing on an internal surface of a vial is disclosed. The method is for forming vials from borosilicate glass tubes with a bottom wherein an internal surface of the tube is fire-blasted with a flame. |
| US09010142B2 |
Air conditioner
An air conditioner includes a printed circuit board to which a power device is attached; and a refrigerant jacket which is connected to the power device, and through which refrigerant used for a refrigeration cycle flows. The printed circuit board is accommodated in a switch box. The refrigerant jacket is fixed to the switch box through a heat transfer plate, and the refrigerant jacket and the printed circuit board are connected together by the switch box. |
| US09010141B2 |
Computer cooling system and method of use
A reliable, leak-tolerant liquid cooling system with a backup air-cooling system for computers is provided. The system may use a vacuum pump and a liquid pump and/or an air compressor in combination to provide negative fluid pressure so that liquid does not leak out of the system near electrical components. Alternatively, the system can use a single vacuum pump and a valve assembly to circulate coolant. The system distributes flow and pressure with a series of pressure regulating valves so that an array of computers can be serviced by a single cooling system. The system provides both air and liquid cooling so that if the liquid cooling system does not provide adequate cooling, the air cooling system will be automatically activated. The heat may be removed from the building efficiently with a cooling tower. |
| US09010140B2 |
Vehicle idle time reduction system and method
A system for reducing idle time in service vehicles such as police patrol cars. A bank of auxiliary batteries is provided. An electrically-powered auxiliary air conditioning compressor is also provided. The auxiliary air compressor is connected to the discharge and suction lines of an existing an conditioning system so that it can propel refrigerant through an existing refrigerant circulation loop. When the vehicle's internal combustion engine is switched off, the auxiliary batteries are selectively used to power the auxiliary air-conditioning compressor in order to provide cooling for the vehicle's cabin. The auxiliary batteries are also used to provide electricity to the vehicle's other electrical loads—such as emergency lights. |
| US09010139B2 |
Air conditioning system and method of using solar cell
An air conditioning system using a solar cell, which uses the electricity effectively by heating the heat devices for designated time and a method for driving the system. The air conditioning system includes a solar cell generating electricity from solar light, a power distribution control part controlling operating voltage of the electricity of the solar cell and distributing to a battery or to the heating element, a control terminal generating a user command signal and an interface part controlling the power distribution control part in response to a command signal from the control terminal. |
| US09010137B2 |
Air conditioner
Disclosed is an air conditioner which can obtain an energy-saving effect without any change to the setting temperature set by a user and, accordingly, without causing discomfort to the user. If a capacity restriction mode is set to at least one of indoor units Y1 and Y2, the setting temperature Ts in the indoor units Y1 and Y2 is not changed and is maintained at a value set by the user and a compressor 1 is operated with the capacity less than the normal capacity. |
| US09010133B2 |
On-line energy consumption optimization adaptive to environmental condition
An appliance includes an appliance housing, an interface adapted to receive power information, a plurality of sensors for sensing environmental conditions, a plurality of controls for controlling operations of the appliance, and an intelligent control. The intelligent control is disposed within the appliance housing and operatively connected to the interface and the plurality of sensors and adapted to dynamically select control values associated with the plurality of controls based on at least one of the power information, the environmental conditions, or a combination thereof to increase energy efficiency of the appliance. |
| US09010131B2 |
Methods and apparatus for Dewar and cold shield assemblies
A Dewar apparatus includes a focal plane array (FPA) component coupled to an FPA carrier, and a cold bridge coupled to the FPA carrier. A cold shield is aligned with the optical axis and coupled to the cold bridge (e.g., via a direct-metal bond), and at least one cryostat enclosure is similarly coupled to the cold bridge such that it has an axis that is noncollinear with the optical axis. |
| US09010125B2 |
Regeneratively cooled transition duct with transversely buffered impingement nozzles
A cooling arrangement (56) having: a duct (30) configured to receive hot gases (16) from a combustor; and a flow sleeve (50) surrounding the duct and defining a cooling plenum (52) there between, wherein the flow sleeve is configured to form impingement cooling jets (70) emanating from dimples (82) in the flow sleeve effective to predominately cool the duct in an impingement cooling zone (60), and wherein the flow sleeve defines a convection cooling zone (64) effective to cool the duct solely via a cross-flow (76), the cross-flow comprising cooling fluid (72) exhausting from the impingement cooling zone. In the impingement cooling zone an undimpled portion (84) of the flow sleeve tapers away from the duct as the undimpled portion nears the convection cooling zone. The flow sleeve is configured to effect a greater velocity of the cross-flow in the convection cooling zone than in the impingement cooling zone. |
| US09010122B2 |
Turbine engine combustor and stator vane assembly
A turbine engine assembly includes a combustor and a stator vane arrangement having a plurality of stator vanes. The combustor includes a combustor wall that extends axially from a combustor bulkhead to a distal combustor wall end, which is located adjacent to the stator vane arrangement. The combustor wall includes a support shell with a plurality of impingement apertures, and a heat shield with a plurality of effusion apertures. The combustor wall end includes a plurality of circumferentially extending film cooled regions. At least one of the film cooled regions is circumferentially aligned with one of the stator vanes and includes a cooling aperture. |
| US09010116B2 |
Method and system for providing vacuum
A vacuum source arbitration system is disclosed. In one example, vacuum is supplied to a vacuum reservoir via an ejector during a first condition, and vacuum is supplied to the vacuum reservoir via an engine intake manifold during a second condition. The approach may provide a desired level of vacuum in a reservoir while reducing engine fuel consumption. |
| US09010111B2 |
Compressor comprising a swirl generator, for a motor vehicle
The invention relates to the operation of a supercharged internal combustion engine (2) of a vehicle, wherein an air/volumetric flow current is adjusted by means of an adjustable swirl generator (8) arranged upstream of a supercharge system, taking into consideration an adjustable valve overlap of a cylinder of the internal combustion engine (2). The invention also relates to a vehicle drive comprising a supercharged internal combustion engine (2), a supercharge system of the internal combustion engine (2), an adjustable, variable valve train of the internal combustion engine (2), a control device and an adjustable swirl generator (8). Said swirl generator (8) is arranged upstream of a supercharge unit of the supercharge system, the control device is connected to the swirl generator (8) and to the variable valve train and has a control which correlates a setting of the variable valve train with a setting of the swirl generator (8) to produce a valve overlap for rinsing a combustion chamber of a cylinder of the internal combustion engine (2). |
| US09010110B2 |
Regulating flap arrangement
A regulating flap arrangement (1) in a flange connection (2) between a turbine housing of a two-stage exhaust-gas turbocharger and an exhaust manifold of an engine, having a regulating flap plate (5) which is pivotable between an open position and a closed position for opening and closing a connecting opening (6) arranged in the flange connection (2); having an insert ring (7) which is arranged in the connecting opening (6); and having a sealing arrangement (8), wherein the sealing arrangement (8) has two V-rings (8A, 8B), of which a first V-ring (8A) is arranged in a first groove (9) provided adjacent to the connecting opening (6), and the second V-ring (8B) is arranged in a second groove (10) which is arranged, spaced apart radially outward from the first groove (9), in the flange connection (2). |
| US09010109B2 |
Turbine wastegate
An assembly can include a turbine housing that includes a bore, a wastegate seat and a wastegate passage that extends to the wastegate seat; a bushing configured for receipt by the bore; a rotatable wastegate shaft configured for receipt by the bushing; a wastegate arm extending from the wastegate shaft; and a wastegate plug extending from the wastegate arm where the wastegate plug includes a profile, defined in part by a portion of a torus, for contacting the wastegate seat to cover the wastegate passage and, for example, defined in part by a portion of a modified sphere or a portion of a cone. Various other examples of devices, assemblies, systems, methods, etc., are also disclosed. |
| US09010108B2 |
Turbocharger compressor rotor alignment system
An aftwardly-extending internally-threaded boss of a boreless-hub compressor rotor of a turbocharger engages a corresponding externally-threaded forward end portion of an associated rotor shaft of the turbocharger, wherein an internal surface of an inner race of an associated rolling-element bearing of the turbocharger is in engagement with both an external surface of the rotor shaft and an external surface of the internally-threaded boss of the boreless-hub compressor rotor, wherein the rotor shaft extends through the inner race of the rolling-element bearing. |
| US09010104B2 |
Fluid-working machine valve timing
A fluid-working machine has a working chamber of cyclically varying volume, high and low pressure manifolds, and high and low pressure valves for regulating the flow of fluid between the working chamber and the high and low pressure manifolds respectively. A controller actively controls at least one said valve to determine the net displacement of working fluid of the working chamber on a cycle by cycle basis. At least one said valve is a variable timing valve and the controller causes the valve to open or close at a time determined taking into account one or more properties of the performance of the fluid working machine measured during an earlier cycle of working chamber volume. |
| US09010102B2 |
Device and method for controlling hydraulic pump of construction machinery
The present invention relates to a device for controlling a hydraulic pump of construction machinery. The device has a first pump supplying working fluid through a swing control valve to a swing motor, and a second pump supplying working fluid through a work tool control valve to a work tool actuator, and includes: a first tilting angle control unit for controlling a discharge flow of the first pump by controlling a tilting angle of the first pump according to an input pump control signal; and a controller deducting a discharge pressure (P2) of the second pump from a discharge pressure (P1) of the first pump to calculate a pump difference pressure-(P1-P2), comparing the calculated pump difference pressure (P1-P2) to a reference difference pressure and, when the calculated pump difference pressure (P1-P2) is greater than the reference difference pressure, outputting the pump control signal to the first tilting angle control unit to make the discharge pressure (P1) of the first pump equal to or less than a first reference pressure that is less than or equal to a swing relief pressure. |
| US09010097B2 |
Exhaust purification system of internal combustion engine
In an internal combustion engine, inside of an engine exhaust passage, a hydrocarbon feed valve (16), an exhaust purification catalyst (13), a particulate filter (14), and an NO2 reduction catalyst (15) are arranged. At the time of engine operation, the amplitude of change of the concentration of hydrocarbons which flow into the exhaust purification catalyst (13) is made to become within a predetermined range of amplitude by control of the injection amount of hydrocarbons from the hydrocarbon feed valve (16). When the NO2 which is produced at the particulate filter (14) should be reduced to NO, the injection amount of hydrocarbons is increased whereby the pass through amount of hydrocarbons which pass straight through the exhaust purification catalyst (13) is increased. |
| US09010096B2 |
Exhaust component mounting system
An exhaust treatment system including an exhaust passage in communication with an engine that produces an exhaust. An exhaust canister is coupled to the exhaust passage, and the exhaust canister supports a plurality of exhaust treatment components therein for treating the exhaust, wherein exhaust canister is removable from the exhaust passage, and the exhaust treatment components are removable from the exhaust canister. |
| US09010094B2 |
Engine control system and method for initiating a diesel particulate filter regeneration
An engine command override may occur when a diesel particulate filter (DPF) requires regeneration. The need for regeneration may be indicated by regeneration level. The engine may be operated in a normal mode when the DPF regeneration level is below a regeneration level threshold, wherein the engine command is based on the throttle input. Additionally, the engine may be operated in an override mode when the DPF regeneration level is above a regeneration level threshold and the engine is operating in the idle state, wherein the engine command is based on a predetermined throttle regeneration setting. |
| US09010092B2 |
Method and apparatus for controlling urea injection amount of vehicle
A method is provided for controlling a urea injection amount of a vehicle that controls urea injection in consideration of a difference between an internal temperature change rate and a regeneration temperature of an SCR integral diesel particulate filter. The method includes: detecting a regeneration temperature rising rate when in a regeneration mode; stopping, if a regeneration temperature rising rate exceeds a predetermined first reference, injection of urea, and controlling, if a regeneration temperature rising rate is less than a predetermined first reference, urea injection; controlling, if a temperature decreasing rate according to urea injection is less than a predetermined second reference while regenerating the filter, correction of an injection amount of urea; and controlling, if a difference between a target regeneration temperature and an actual regeneration temperature exceeds a predetermined third reference according to urea injection while regenerating the filter, correction of an injection amount of urea. |
| US09010089B2 |
Reductant delivery unit for automotive selective catalytic reduction with gasket anti-deposit shielding structure
A reductant delivery unit (10) includes a fluid injector (12) and a flange (20) coupled with the fluid injector. An exhaust boss (28) has a surface (39) defining a through-hole (40) that communicates with a vehicle's exhaust flow path. The flange is coupled to a mounting surface such that the outlet of the fluid injector communicates with the exhaust flow path so as to control injection of urea solution into the exhaust gas flow path. A gasket (32) is sandwiched between the flange and the mounting surface. The gasket has a surface (37) defining a through-hole (38) therein that communicates with the through-hole in the exhaust boss to permit the urea solution to pass from the fluid outlet to the exhaust flow path. Gasket shielding structure (44) covers the surface defining the through-hole in the gasket to prevent the urea solution from contacting the gasket. |
| US09010086B2 |
Device and method for treating exhaust gas containing soot particles and motor vehicle having the device and carrying out the method
A device for treating exhaust gas containing soot particles, includes at least one ionization element for ionizing soot particles and at least one separation device having a surface precipitator for depositing ionized soot particles. The at least one surface precipitator includes at least two at least partially electrically conductive neutralization regions that are electrically insulated from each other in order to neutralize ionized soot particles. A method for converting soot particles of an exhaust gas includes applying different electric potentials. A motor vehicle includes the device and carries out the method. |
| US09010085B2 |
Turbine section of high bypass turbofan
A turbofan engine has an engine case and a gaspath through the engine case. A fan has a circumferential array of fan blades. The engine further has a compressor, a combustor, a gas generating turbine, and a low pressure turbine section. A speed reduction mechanism couples the low pressure turbine section to the fan. A bypass area ratio is greater than about 6.0. The low pressure turbine section airfoil count to bypass area ratio ratio is below about 170. |
| US09010080B2 |
Elastic chain and ornamental item made with said elastic chain
An extensible chain includes a plurality of cage-shaped elements (2) connected to one another in succession, each one of which includes a flat central body (3) from which two or more lateral arms (4) branch off whose free ends are slidingly inserted in an adjacent cage-shaped element. The adjacent elements define an intermediate space in which there is a spring (6) obtained from a plane metal sheet element from which two tabs (6b) depart that are opposite each other with respect to the base of the metal sheet element and are positioned above it at a distance (H) that, when the spring is at rest, exceeds the distance between the free ends of the lateral arms (4) of any cage-shaped element and the central body (3) of the adjacent cage-shaped element. |
| US09010078B2 |
Weed trimmer with a wingnut plate
The weed trimmer head is comprised of a sole plate having a diameter; a circumference; a plurality of pivot pins extending upwardly therefrom near the circumference. The sole plate also has a driving shaft extending upwardly therefrom from a center thereof. The driving shaft has a threaded segment thereon. A plurality of cutting blades are pivotally mounted to the plurality of pivot pins. A wingnut plate is also provided. This wingnut plate has a disc-like portion and wing blades extending on an upper side thereof. The wingnut plate has a threaded hole in its disc-like portion. The threaded hole is mounted to the threaded segment of the driving shaft and the wingnut plate is movable along the threaded segment, for selectively contacting or exposing the ends of the pivot pins. |
| US09010077B2 |
Riding lawn mower with friction drive
A riding lawn mower may include a cutting deck coupled to a cutting blade, an engine, a deck drive coupled to the engine to receive power for operating the cutting blade, a ground drive coupled to the engine to receive power for movement of the riding lawn mower over ground, and a friction drive coupling the deck drive to the engine. |
| US09010074B2 |
Packaging unit method
A method of using a packaging unit with a selected beverage container comprises obtaining a packaging unit having a receiving chamber for popcorn or the like and a square pocket coupled to the outside of the receiving chamber, a lower end portion of the pocket having one or more strip-shaped wall sections; selecting either a conical beverage cup or a beverage bottle; configuring the pocket based on the configuration of the selected beverage container; and inserting the selected beverage container into the correspondingly configured pocket, wherein in a first configuration, the conical beverage cup is held in a clamp seat, or in a second pocket configuration the beverage bottle is supported on a partial bottom support member formed by the strip-shaped wall sections. |
| US09010073B2 |
Mobile dosing, mixing and packaging plant
The main objective of this invention is a Mobile plant for dosing, mixing and packaging of powdery products, characterized because it is comprised of a carrying structure and several areas for: reception and weighing, loading, mixing, sack filling, sewing and labelling, metal detection, palletizing and cleaning. This invention is included within the industrial plants technical sector of manufacturing and mixing of powdery products. |
| US09010071B2 |
Baler with an improved stripper roll
Stationary plates are mounted in the spaces between the segments of a roll. At least one of the plates comprises a cam-like extension, protruding from the roll surface for preventing wrapping material from wrapping around the roll. |
| US09010070B2 |
Structural framing member
A structural framing member comprises a web flanked by a pair of flanges. The flanges may extend generally perpendicularly from the side edges of the web. In some embodiments, the web may comprise a plurality of evenly-spaced embossments positioned along the centerline of the web. The embossments may be diamond shaped. The web may further comprise one or more longitudinally extending offsets that extend along the length of the web. Each flange may comprise a plurality of evenly-spaced longitudinally extending stiffeners. The longitudinally extending stiffeners may be spaced approximately ⅜″ (0.953 cm) apart from each other. In some embodiments, each flange may further comprise a free end, which is bent inwardly to form a return lip along the length of the flange. The return lip may extend generally perpendicularly from the flange and generally parallel to the web. The structural framing member may comprise a stud, track member, or other framing member. |
| US09010064B1 |
Masonry tie
Masonry tie is provided having a base and a retainer plate. The base has back plate and a shaft extending from the back plate. The shaft has a plurality of teeth. The retainer plate has a receiving opening configured to receive the shaft. The retainer plate has a locking arm adjacent the receiving opening. The locking arm is biased to engage at least one of the plurality of teeth when the at least one of the plurality of teeth is adjacent the locking arm to releasably prevent the retainer plate from moving in at least one direction. |
| US09010053B1 |
High strength thermal barrier panel for an H.V.A.C. unit housing
A thermal barrier double-wall construction panel made up of at least four layers which includes a foam insulation core with exterior and interior surface sides, an inner and an outer liner (or skin), and at least one engineered thermal barrier support structure located between the foam core and one of the liners. |
| US09010052B2 |
Modular structure and said modular structure's structural members made of composite material
The present invention is a structural member made of composite material, characterized by comprising a body which is made of a composite material with at least one type of fiber and at least one type of resin; and at least one connection member which is one piece with said body in order to provide connection to another structural member with the same characteristics. The present invention also relates to modular structures like buildings produced using said structural members. |
| US09010046B1 |
Molding strip for fabric walls and ceilings
A molding strip for fabric and wall systems has a base for securing it to a wall and at least two pairs of flexible gripping members that face each other at fabric entry slots for different fabric receiving cavities. In one embodiment, one pair of flexible gripping walls is arranged where an edge of the base and an adjacent wall or ceiling intersect and the other pair is arranged on a protruding member. The flexible gripping walls have gripping teeth to secure the fabric after insertion of fabric into a collection cavity. |
| US09010044B2 |
Panel for sheathing system and method
The panel includes a water resistant barrier layer secured atop its outward facing surface. The water resistant barrier layer includes a skid resistant surface. The panels are made of lignocellulosic material. The water resistant and skid resistant surface may include indicia for aligning strips of tape or for aligning fasteners. A method for manufacturing the water resistant building panels is also disclosed and includes the steps of feeding paper onto a forming belt, depositing lignocellulosic material and the binding agent onto the forming belt so as to form a lignocellulosic mat, applying heat and pressure so as to impart the skid resistant surface on the paper, and cutting panels to predetermined sizes. |
| US09010043B2 |
System for mounting solar modules
A system for mounting solar modules comprising a plurality of racks and clamps. Each rack has an inclined upper mounting surface to support one of the solar modules and an inclined lower mounting surface to support one of the other solar modules. Each upper mounting surface and lower mounting surface define a slot. One of the clamps slidably receivable by a slot of one of the upper mounting surfaces and configured to secure the one solar modules to the upper mounting surfaces and an other of the clamps slidably receivable by a slot of one of the lower mounting surfaces and configured to secure said one of the other solar modules to one of the lower mounting surfaces. Each rack has a tray having a first tower supporting the upper mounting surface and a second tower supporting the lower mounting surface. |
| US09010040B2 |
Modular panel for making covering structures for walls, covering structures or walls and method
A modular panel to make a roof or a wall of a building comprises an external shell and an internal shell, made of moldable plastic material, coupled with each other to define at least a compartment. The panel integrates in itself means for the capturing and irradiation of energy, and relative energy accumulation means, the capturing and irradiation means being associated, at least partly, with the external shell. |
| US09010036B2 |
Mine haven
Systems and methods are provided for a modular shelter that is suited for use as a safety chamber in an underground working environment. The shelter includes at least two wall units connected along a substantially sealed seam, a base unit that extends substantially throughout a floor plan of the shelter, and a roll cage that surrounds an outer extent of the shelter above the floor plan. The shelter may be configured to maintain a pressurized state in a closed condition. Each of the at least two wall units may share a substantially common shape and substantially common dimension, and may form a part of a wall, ceiling, and floor of the shelter. The shelter can also include various atmospheric control, circulation, and purge systems, and exterior and soft seal doors to assist in maintaining a livable atmosphere in the safety chamber. |
| US09010032B2 |
Device for the connection of equipment to flooring
A device (1) for the connection of gymnastic equipment to the flooring (30) of a gymnasium or the like, includes a support (2) which can be placed in a housing (50) produced in a flooring (30) and accessible from an opening (A), at least one electromagnet (8) mounted on the support (2) which can be connected to a control device (100), at least one slab (11, 12) adapted to be placed in the opening (A) resting on the support (2), the slab (11, 12) including at least one portion (11a, 12a) made of ferromagnetic material, the upper surface (14) of the slab being substantially flat or being provided with elements (13) for the connection of gymnastic equipment. |
| US09010031B1 |
Modular medical headwall system
A modular headwall system with multiple interlocking sections. The studs in each frame section include hooks and slots that ensure secure attachment of one section to each adjacent section while maintaining proper alignment. For floor-mounted applications, a self-leveling base assembly provides a level support track even on uneven floors. An adjustable crown molding assembly provides an attractive architectural feature while concealing an irregular ceiling line. The cover panels forming the front of the headwall float on a hanger system that allows slight lateral and vertical movement while holding the entire matrix of panels firmly against the frame behind it; this allows the panels to maintain proper alignment in the assembled headwall even where the supporting wall and floor surfaces are irregular. The side trim assembly includes a cable management recess. Some panels include a floating equipment track that is aesthetically pleasing and less likely to harbor microorganisms. |
| US09010024B2 |
Low profile latch and closing panel for pet door
The present invention provides improved pet doors, systems and related methods that may be used or installed on the fixed panel of a new or existing sliding door, such as a patio door, without interfering with the sliding movement of the companion door by providing a low profile closing panel and latch. |
| US09010020B1 |
Plant container assembly and method
A plant container assembly, method, and kit include a plant container with a sidewall having first and second sidewall portions, an open top, and an open bottom. A hinge member is on the sidewall between the open top and the open bottom and pivotally connects the first and second sidewall portions for movement between an open position of the plant container, and a closed position of the plant container forming an interior space capable of containing plant growing medium. A closure portion extends along the sidewall between the open top and the open bottom. A plant support cooperatively engages the closure portion and selectively holds the plant container in the closed position. A planar member is configured to be selectively placed within the plant container and supported on a ledge member on each of the first and second sidewall portions to selectively form a bottom closure for the plant container. |
| US09010017B2 |
Apparatus and method for controlling bedbugs
A collector of adult insects, their eggs and larvae has a vacuum-producing motor disposed within a housing. An inlet nozzle is used to draw the targeted organisms into the housing along a flow path featuring grids heated to a degree sufficient to kill the organisms. Mechanical expedients such as fan blades can be disposed in the flow path to apply mechanical killing forces and to blow debris off of adjacent grids. The organisms are directed to a collector which can be heated and which can contain insecticidal substances to provide additional killing expedients for the collected organisms. The flow rate and temperature ranges are adjustable to create sufficient heat and time of contact to kill selected organisms. The collector is especially useful for treating bedbug infestations without the need for toxic chemicals, long-term treatments which make the space being treated uninhabitable and other more extreme treatment regimens. |
| US09010014B2 |
Rod body for fishing rod and fishing rod
A rod body for a fishing rod, in which torsional rigidity and the like are enhanced by exercising ingenuity in direction of arrangement of a prepreg tape, is provided. An inner layer 23 is formed by winding a main pattern, which is constituted by a prepreg sheet 52 having a length corresponding to the length of a rod body and provided with reinforcing fibers 42 uniformly aligned, so that reinforcing fibers 42 are tilted relative to the rod axis. An outer layer 25 is formed by helically winding a prepreg tape with small-width 70, which is constituted by reinforcing fibers 42 uniformly aligned in the longitudinal direction, in the rod axis direction so that ends of the prepreg tape 70 in the small-width direction thereof abut closely against each other. The reinforcing fibers 42 of the prepreg sheet 52 and the reinforcing fibers 42 of the prepreg tape 70 are wound so as to cross each other when viewed in a radial direction, with the winding being made helically in directions opposite to each other. |
| US09010010B2 |
Firearm magazine catch apparatus
A firearm magazine catch apparatus is provided. The firearm magazine catch apparatus features a frame including a frame structure and a plurality of legs interconnected by and supporting the frame structure. A flexible collection pouch suspended from the frame has an open top and walls sloping from an edge of the frame structure to a central area of the frame structure for catching firearm magazines discharged from a firearm. |
| US09010006B2 |
Time-delay magazine catch
A method and apparatus for intentionally slowing the speed at which detachable ammunition magazines can be interchanged in a firearm receiver. A magazine catch assembly includes a latch adapted to engage a recess of a standard magazine in the magazine well. A hand-activated crank interacts with threads of a push-rod portion of the latch so that manual rotation of the hand crank in one direction (e.g., counter-clockwise) displaces the latch after a sufficient number of turns. Reverse rotation of the hand crank returns the latch to its engaged condition ready to automatically re-engage the next magazine inserted into the firearm receiver. Alternatively, viscoelastic foam or other mechanical time-delay feature can be used instead of screw threads to introduce a mechanically transmitted dwell period before the latch is actuated. |
| US09010005B2 |
Ammunition magazine
An ammunition magazine including a housing having a base, a follower spring-biased in the housing against the base, a chain coupled to the follower for pulling the follower towards the base to permit loading of cartridges into the magazine, and a mechanism for collecting a loose portion of the chain mounted on the follower, the chain being coupled to the mechanism for collecting a loose portion of the chain, the mechanism being configured to collect a loose portion of the chain after the follower has been pulled towards the base. |
| US09010002B2 |
Method and accessory device to improve performances of ballistic throwers
An accessory device for a ballistic thrower/launcher that can be handgun or a gun or other object throwing or launching device that is meant to improve the quality of the action, the comfort and safety of the operator. It is made of accessory devices that stabilize the operation of the throwing device aligning the recoil with the projectile trajectory making the process reproducible, predictable and controllable. It adds environment monitoring electronics, cameras and actuators, for accurately launching after aiming, considering all the major process perturbations, as movements, wind, humidity, atmospheric pressure, target movement, shooting post movement, etc. The device adds other features of safety for the operator, as stealth action, dimming process noise, recoil shock, flames and heat signature being suitable for remote operation. |
| US09010000B1 |
Convertible flag and banner system
A flag and banner system for displaying a flag and/or a banner on a flat panel of a vehicle. The system features a first mast with two linear mast channels, a first indexing base with an attachment clip that attaches to an inner edge of a pivoting panel of the vehicle, and a first pliable flag. The system also features a second mast with two linear mast channels, a second indexing base with an attachment clip that attaches to the inner edge of the pivoting panel of the vehicle at an offset from the first indexing base, and a second pliable flag. The first pliable flag is connected to the first mast and the second pliable flag is connected to the second mast via attachment tabs. A banner is attached to both the first and second mast via attachment tabs. |
| US09009997B1 |
Display fixture
The present disclosure is directed to a display fixture used to convey information to a consumer that is easily coupled to a display rack by inserting portions of the fixture into the product storage spaces of the display rack. The display fixture can include a display panel, a first arm, a second arm, and a third arm where the arms can be sized and configured for placement in the product storages space of an associated display rack. |
| US09009986B1 |
Jig for firearm lower receiver manufacture
A machining tool assembly for manufacturing a firearm lower receiver includes a first and second side jig which are configured to be disposed on opposite sides of the firearm lower receiver and configured to removably attach to one another securing the firearm lower receiver therebetween. A drill block jig is removably attachable to the first and second side jigs disposed above the top surface of the firearm lower receiver, wherein the drill block jig comprises a plurality of through holes. A template spacer jig is removably attachable to the first and second side jigs disposed above the top surface of the firearm lower receiver, wherein the template spacer jig comprises a spacer aperture disposed through a template spacer thickness. A first and second pocket templates are removably attachable and disposed onto the template spacer jig. A router support plate is disposed onto either the first or second pocket templates. |
| US09009984B2 |
Multi-panel electronic device
A multi-panel electronic device and method are disclosed. In a particular embodiment, a method includes receiving first acceleration data from a first sensor coupled to a first portion of an electronic device. The method further includes receiving second acceleration data from a second sensor coupled to a second portion of the electronic device, where a position of the first portion is movable with respect to a position of the second portion. The method further includes determining a configuration of the electronic device at least partially based on the first acceleration data and the second acceleration data. |
| US09009971B2 |
Wicking and coupling element(s) facilitating evaporative cooling of component(s)
A method is provided for facilitating cooling of electronic components of an electronic system. The method includes: providing a housing at least partially surrounding and forming a compartment about the components, and providing an immersion-cooling fluid is disposed within the compartment, at least one component of the electronic system being at least partially non-immersed within the fluid in the compartment; providing a wicking film element physically coupled to a main surface of the at least one component and partially disposed within the fluid within the compartment; and securing, via a coupling element, the wicking film element in physical coupling to the main surface of the at least one component without the coupling element overlying the main surface of the component(s). As an enhancement, the wicking film element wraps over the component to physically couple to two opposite main sides of the component. |
| US09009970B2 |
Curvilineal closed structure parts and method for manufacturing the same
A method for manufacturing includes a polygonal shape closed structure part with a bent shape in the longitudinal direction only by press forming. The method uses two metal plates for manufacturing a curvilineal closed structure part and includes a press forming process of forming straight or bent folding lines in the longitudinal direction of the two metal plates at positions corresponding to a polygonal bent shape with a flange formed at least at one of the ends of the width direction of each plate, a process of forming a closed structure by laying the two metal plates to overlap each other flange to flange and end to end for ends without flanges and by welding the portions laid to overlap each other in the longitudinal direction of the metal plates, and a process of forming a polygonal shape closed structure having a bent shape in the longitudinal direction by holding both ends of the closed structure and by compressing it toward its central axis. |
| US09009969B2 |
Refrigerator and handle assembly method thereof
A refrigerator which increases convenience in assembly of a handle and reduces generation of scratches on doors and drawers in assembly of the handle, and a handle assembly method thereof, is provided. The refrigerator includes doors rotatably combined with a main body, a handle combined with each door to open and close each door, a first handle fixing unit assembled with each door to fix the handle to each door and provided with an inclined part fixed to the handle by a fastening unit, a second handle fixing unit assembled with each door to fix the handle to each door and combined with the handle in a sliding manner, a first connector assembled with the handle and fastened to the first handle fixing unit by the fastening unit, and a second connector assembled with the handle and combined with the second handle fixing unit in the sliding manner. |
| US09009956B2 |
Single phase inverter topology method
Systems and methods are described that provide multilevel inverters having a plurality of levels using a simplified topology. For single phase systems, embodiments provide a full-bridge topology using bidirectional switching interconnections. |
| US09009955B2 |
Method of making an electronically active textile article
A method of making articles from electrically active textiles. First and second fabric pieces include conductors therein. A seam is established between the first and second fabric pieces. A determination is made, at the seam, based on one or more predetermined factors, which conductors of the first fabric piece intersect or overlap with which conductors of the second fabric piece. At the seam, an electrical and mechanical connection is formed between select conductors of the first fabric piece and select conductors of the second fabric piece. |
| US09009949B1 |
Method for partially cured insulators for electromagnetic systems
A method of fabricating an electric machine stator includes inserting one or more electrical coils into a form and partially curing the one or more electrical coils. The method also includes populating the electric machine stator with the one or more electrical coils and curing the electric machine stator with one or more electrical coils. |
| US09009944B2 |
Assembly of wet electrostatic precipitator
Wet electrostatic precipitator (WESP) collector tube bundles are formed by a procedure in which strips of conductive material are corrugated, intended abutting surfaces of the corrugated strips are abraded, adhesive is applied to the abraded surfaces, multiple ones of the corrugated strips are assembled with corrugation in abutting relationship, and outer panels are assembled with the resulting hexagonal tube bundle. |
| US09009941B2 |
Method for manufacturing automatic transmission
It is intended to make it possible to, even in a situation where a program and/or data to be written to a memory device of an electronic control unit provided in an automatic transmission become different in content, depending on a specification of a vehicle to be mounted with the automatic transmission, manage the electronic control unit while distinguishing only by a difference in hardware configurations thereof. Disclosed is a method which comprises: an assembling step (10) of assembling an automatic transmission, wherein the assembling step includes installing an electronic control unit in the automatic transmission; and a testing step (30) of testing the automatic transmission after completion of assembling in the assembling step (10), wherein a writing step (20) is performed after the assembling step (10) and before the testing step (30), to write vehicle-dependent information consisting of a program and/or data depending on a specification of a vehicle to be mounted with the automatic transmission, to a memory device of the electronic control unit installed in the automatic transmission. |
| US09009937B2 |
Sleeve removal tool and sleeve removal method
The object of the invention is to provide a sleeve removal tool that is able to easily remove a sleeve from a tap without damaging the sleeve. The sleeve removal tool has a first fastening member and a second fastening member. The first fastening member has a first contact surface and inner screw section, and is formed in a cylindrical shape. The first contact surface comes in contact with the flange of the sleeve all around one ring shaped surface. An inner screw section is provided such that it protrudes in the axial direction from the first contact surface. The second fastening member has a second contact surface and outer screw section, and is formed in a cylindrical shape. The first contact surface comes in contact all around the other ring shaped surface of the flange. |
| US09009934B1 |
Positioner
In one embodiment of a positioner, two opposing end beams may be cooperatively engaged with two opposing side beams. A first lowering unit may be cooperatively engaged with either a first end beam or first ends of the two opposing side beams. A second lowering unit may be cooperatively engaged with either a second end beam or second ends of the two opposing side beams. Legs and leg extensions may be cooperatively engaged at either end of either end beam, and pads may be placed on the distal ends of each leg extension. Actuators corresponding to each leg and leg extension may be in communication with a control unit to control the position of each actuator. Lateral extensions may be engaged with each end beam. |
| US09009933B2 |
Method to improve the appearance of a corpse and new thanatocosmetic compositions
The present invention relates to a method to improve the appearance of a corpse by means of the application of specific thanatocosmetic compositions. The invention also relates to the new compositions and to their use in thanato-aesthetics. |
| US09009930B2 |
Strap formed slider end stops
The present disclosure relates to end stops for slider zippers for reclosable packages or bags wherein the end stops are formed by straps which are inserted and secured within apertures in the zipper, proximate to the ends of the zipper. The ends of the straps are joined to each other to form loops. This joining may be done with a fin seal, a lap seal, a separate rivet, an integral rivet or similar structure. |
| US09009926B2 |
Portable object with an interchangeable bracelet or strap
The present invention concerns a portable object including a case (2) and a bracelet or strap (14). The case includes a middle part (4) from which two pairs of horns (12) extend, the horns of each pair being connected by a guide element (50) defining a space in conjunction with the middle part. The portable object includes securing means (18) including a locking part (20, 20′) inserted in each end (30) of the bracelet or strap and at least one groove (22) located on the middle part (4). The securing means (18) is arranged to enable each end of the bracelet or strap to be inserted in the space defined by the middle part and the horns of each pair connected by the guide element (50), such that the locking part (20) cooperates elastically with said groove to secure said bracelet or strap to the case in a simple manner. |
| US09009924B2 |
Clip-closure
A clip-closure (1, 2) for closing container systems made from film, includes first closure and second closure part (4,5). A connecting device secures the second closure part (5) to the first closure part (4) in the assembled state. The first closure part (4) may be of U-shaped configuration and includes two limbs (7, 8). The second closure part (5) is of W-shaped configuration and includes a central limb (6) as well as two side limbs (9, 10) spaced apart therefrom. A first part of the connecting device is provided on the limbs (7, 8) of the first closure part (4), and a second part of the connecting device is provided on the side limbs (9, 10) of the second closure part (5). The disclosure also relates to opening tools (41). |
| US09009923B2 |
Cushion sleeve
A cushion sleeve for a cable tie is provided. The cushion sleeve includes a body for receiving a bundle of cables. The body includes a first side and a second side opposite the first side. Additionally, the cushion sleeve includes a first arm extending from the first side of the body along a first axis and a second arm extending from the second side of the body along a second axis. The first axis is oblique to the second axis when the cushion sleeve is unwrapped such that the first arm engages the second arm when the cushion sleeve is wrapped around the bundle of cables. |
| US09009922B2 |
Stethoscope holster
A reversibly locking assembly for use as a stethoscope holster or for use with other devices. The assembly includes a clip adapted for attachment to an article of clothing wherein the clip has a clip channel wherein the clip channel includes an upper section and a lower section wherein the lower section is wider than the upper section. A stethoscope connector is provided which is adapted for attachment to a stethoscope. The stethoscope has a tube and when the tube is aligned with the clip channel the asymmetric plate passes through the upper section. When the tube is not aligned with the clip channel the asymmetric plate does not pass through the upper section. |
| US09009921B1 |
Motorized extension pole
A motorized extension pole including a first hollow pole member having a second hollow pole member telescopically mounted in said first pole member. The second pole member is selectively moved between extended and retracted positions with respect to said first pole member by a battery powered drive motor. |
| US09009920B1 |
Motorized extension pole
A motorized extension pole including a first hollow pole member having a second pole member telescopically mounted in said first pole member. The second pole member is selectively moved between extended and retracted positions with respect to said first pole member by a battery powered drive motor. The drive motor is mounted within a handle attached to the inner end of the first pole member. A coupling mechanism interconnects the handle to the first pole member which permits the first pole member to be selectively rotated without rotating the handle so that the control switch on the handle is always located in a convenient position. The pole also includes limit switches for controlling the retraction and extension of the second pole member. |
| US09009911B2 |
Cylinder vacuum cleaner
A cylinder vacuum cleaner comprising a main body which is fluidly connected to a suction hose used to pull the main body forwards along a floor, and a front swivel castor for supporting the main body on the floor, the front castor comprising a frame mounted for rotation about a swivel axis and one or more wheels mounted on the frame, the hose being connected to the frame for co-rotation with the frame about the swivel axis, wherein the swivel axis is positively raked. |
| US09009910B2 |
Windshield wiper with even pressing force
A windshield wiper (1) with an even pressing force is connected to a driving arm (2) and includes a primary wiper frame (10), two auxiliary wiper frames (20), connecting frames (30), and a wiper blade (40). The primary wiper frame (10) includes a fixing base (11) connected to the driving arm (2). The auxiliary wiper frames (20) are disposed on both ends of the primary wiper frame (10). Each auxiliary wiper frame (20) includes an elastic piece (21) and a pivotal base (22) fixed to the elastic piece (21) and pivotally connected to the primary wiper frame (10). The connecting frames (30) are evenly provided on each auxiliary wiper frame (20). Each connecting frame (30) includes a pressing piece (31) and buckling brackets (32). The wiper blade (40) is disposed through the buckling brackets (32) to be connected below the pressing piece (31). |
| US09009905B2 |
Pipe pig and method of cleaning a pipe
A pipe pig for refinery heater tubes is disclosed. The pipe pig has arcuate cleaning elements which form an expandable circumference. Each of the arcuate cleaning elements has a scraping edge. A spring element biases the arcuate cleaning elements radially outward. The pipe pig may have structural components made from titanium alloys and arcuate cleaning elements made from carbon-carbon composites. A method for cleaning coking out of refinery heater tubes using the pipe pig is also disclosed. |
| US09009902B2 |
Electric toothbrush
On a tip of a main body case is formed a cylindrical brush attachment shaft tube to which a toothbrush head (holding unit) is removably attached. In a space within the cylindrical brush attachment shaft tube is disposed a motor to which an eccentric weight generating vibration is attached. Therefore, it is possible for the tip of the toothbrush head to approach the main body case side by the length of the cylindrical brush attachment shaft tube, thereby shortening the total length of an electric toothbrush. |
| US09009901B2 |
Oral care devices having automatic mode selection
Embodiments of the present disclosure are directed to oral care devices, system and methods for advanced ionic micro-current control. In some embodiments, an oral care device is actuated upon completion of an electric circuit by a users hand and oral cavity. The electrode on an oral care implement may be configured to lose conductivity over time to indicate a replacement oral care implement is need. In some embodiments, a controller of the oral care device may detect the type of oral care implement and control the ionic micro-current accordingly. Additionally, embodiments may detect a region within the oral cavity that the oral care device is in contact with and apply the ionic micro-current accordingly. Further, in some embodiments, the health status of various regions of a user's oral cavity may be detected and monitored over time. |
| US09009891B2 |
Automatic patient weight measurement for determining pressure relief set points
A method and a system have been described to determine a pressure relief set point for a person-support apparatus. The method includes determining the change in pressure or volume in a zone from a vacant mode to a person occupied mode and computing the weight supported there from. |
| US09009889B1 |
Pillowcase with a pocket
A pillowcase with storage includes a pillow portion and a storage portion extending from an opening of the pillow portion. The pillow portion includes a top panel and a bottom panel coupled together to form a pillow pocket, having an opening to receive a pillow. The storage portion defines at least one storage compartment and internally attaches to the pillow portion, within its opening. The storage portion can optionally include a closure to retain its contents. The storage portion can be configured to hold electronic devices, books, medications, reading glasses, phones, and so forth, in a manner that does not interfere with the use of a pillow inside the pillow portion. |
| US09009888B1 |
Health care bed with variably sized bed frame and method of use thereof
A health care bed, including a floor engaging base frame and a bed frame including at least two bed sections hingedly connected to each other and having a central frame portion and left and right wing sections having at least a retracted position and an extended position relative to the central frame portion; and a locking mechanism with at least one rocker bar, at least one spring and at least one locking button for releasably locking the wing sections in the retracted and extended positions. |
| US09009887B2 |
Travel cot
A travel cot includes a frame unit, and two articulation units. The frame unit includes four corner blocks, four support legs, four elastic plates, two first connecting bars, and four second connecting bars. Each of the articulation units includes a positioning plate, a clamping plate, a movable plate, at least one positioning ball, at least one compression spring, a pivot shaft, and a hooked piece. Thus, the hooked piece of each of the articulation units is hooked on the clamping plate and the movable plate to limit the bending direction of the second connecting bars, so that the second connecting bars can only be pivoted upward and cannot be pivoted downward by limit of the hooked piece to prevent the second connecting bars from being bent downward and injuring the infant or baby. |
| US09009882B2 |
Hand wash wall hung sink to avoid spread of infectious disease
A sink is described herein which includes a basin including an upper rim having a back portion, and an interior surface having a sloped surface portion and a bottom surface portion, wherein the sloped surface portion extends from the back portion of the upper rim into the bottom surface portion; a faucet member extending upwardly from an upper portion of the sloped surface; and a drain opening extending through the bottom surface portion, wherein the faucet member is positioned such that liquid from the faucet member flows onto the sloped surface portion into the bottom surface portion and into the drain opening. A method for preventing splashing of a liquid from a sink is also provided herein. |
| US09009881B2 |
Retainer assembly for a shower surround
A retainer assembly for a shower surround includes a first frame arm, a second frame arm, an arcuate frame section, a stop and a retainer. The arcuate frame section interconnects the first frame arm and the second frame arm. The stop extends from the first frame arm, and is substantially between the first frame arm and the second frame arm. The retainer arm extends from the arcuate frame section in a direction that is generally opposite from the first frame arm and the second frame arm. |
| US09009880B2 |
Cover box for a shower flow system
A superstructure system for a drain located in the floor region of a wash area or shower stall, including a cover box which is to be placed over the drain and has a closed rear side and top and end faces connecting the rear side and the top, a side which is open toward the drain and a visible side which is open toward the water collection element of the drain, and in which a cover flap (10) is vertically oriented, the lower face of which, when installed, delimits a drain slot of the superstructure system and is connected to the cover box by way of a hinge so as to be horizontally pivotable. |
| US09009874B2 |
Protective goggles and lens assemblies with adjustable ventilation having reduced visual obstruction
Lens assemblies and goggles are disclosed. One example lens assembly includes a lens having a plurality of vent openings and having a button opening elongated in shape. A button configured to fit and slide in the button opening includes a portion that extends through the lens and terminates in a button end. A shutter having a plurality of vent openings and a button attachment opening is attached to the button end at the button attachment opening. The vent openings of the shutter overlap the vent openings of the lens with the button in a first position and the vent openings of the lens covered by the shutter with the button in a second position. |
| US09009871B2 |
Protective headwear
A protective headwear comprising a first shell half and a second shell half coupled to each other by first and second elastic strips. The combination of first and second shell halves forms a protective cage for protecting a person's head. A plurality of pads is coupled to an inner surface of the protective cage. The pads are positioned to contact strong areas on the person's head when the protective cage is worn and to provide spacing between the cage and the person's head. A baseball cap may be coupled to an outer surface of the cage to form a lightweight, unobtrusive, and protective headwear. |
| US09009869B1 |
Sweat diverter
Described herein are sweat-diverting devices which can be adhered to a wearer by an adhesive. The sweat-diverting devices described here may be adhered over a portion of the face without circumscribing the head. Such sweat-diverting devices may comprise a first leg and a second leg that are joined at a base of the device to form a channel therebetween, where at least a portion of the base is more rigid than the first and second legs such that an acute angle between the first and second legs is maintained when the sweat-diverting device is applied on a wearer's forehead. In some variations, the thickness of the base is greater than the thickness of either of the legs, which may help to maintain a separation between the tips of the legs even when the sweat-diverting device is applied to a wearer's forehead. |
| US09009866B2 |
Convertible garment cuff
An apparatus for a convertible garment cuff includes a band of flexible material that includes a substantially rectangular body having first and second opposing edges, first and second opposing ends, a front side, and a back side. A portion of the body includes a covering region that conceals a garment cuff in an engaged position. A portion of the body includes a tucking region that tucks underneath the garment cuff in an engaged position. A plurality of coupling elements secures the body to the garment cuff in an engaged position. The covering region includes at least one coupling element disposed along each of the first and second opposing ends. The tucking region includes at least one coupling element disposed along at least one of the first and second opposing ends. The first and second opposing ends of the covering and tucking regions are coupled together. |
| US09009862B2 |
Welding helmet equipped with light switching window
Disclosed herein is a welding helmet in which a worker may transmit and block external light as necessary by forming a light switching window for blocking external light from a side surface of the welding helmet (helmet). The welding helmet equipped with a light switching window, which includes a helmet body portion which protects the worker's face and a cartridge which blocks harmful light generated during welding to protect the worker's eyes, includes a light switching window formed on a side surface of the helmet body portion such that external light is transmitted or blocked by the light switching window. The light switching window has a structure in which it may be possible to identify risk factors around a work area and a worker may block unnecessary light as necessary. Particularly, since an operating radius is enlarged, it may be possible to provide the worker with convenience. |
| US09015854B2 |
Access rights management in enterprise digital rights management systems
Systems and methods for obtaining access rights to an encrypted document are described. The method comprises receiving a request for obtaining access rights to the encrypted document from a requestor, through an eDRM interface. The method further comprises generating a request inbox corresponding to a granter of the encrypted document. The request inbox contains at least the request received from the requestor. The generated request inbox is sent to the granter through the eDRM interface. The method furthermore comprises obtaining a response to the request from the granter, and providing a status alert indicative of the response to the requestor through the eDRM interface. |
| US09015853B2 |
Concealing access patterns to electronic data storage for privacy
Methods and systems of concealing access patterns to data storage, such as within servers of a cloud computing environment are presented. Server data storage is securely partitioned into smaller electronic data storage partitions of predetermined size. The client side maintains a shuffling buffer and position map for these blocks as stored on the electronic data storage partitions of the server. Concealment is performed with respect to accesses from the client to server using an oblivious sorting protocol. Access operation is concealed with each block being randomly assigned to any of the data storage partitions, and whenever a block is accessed, the block is logically removed from its current partition and logically assigned to a fresh random partition selected from all partitions, while the client maintains tracking of which partition each block is associated with at any point of time. |
| US09015850B2 |
Detecting and revoking pirate redistribution of content
Disclosed are methods, systems and articles for tracing and disabling one or more unauthorized distributors of content originally transmitted by a distribution center. In some embodiments, a method includes receiving rebroadcast transmissions of a data segment previously transmitted by the distribution center, the received segment including embedded information associated with a subset of recipients that includes at least one of the unauthorized distributors, and identifying the subset based on the embedded information. The method further includes assigning recipients in the identified subset into two or more new subsets such that the at least one unauthorized distributor is assigned to one of the two or more new subsets, and coding a subsequent data segment to be transmitted with additional embedded information associated with the two or more new subsets. The above operations may be repeated until the at least unauthorized distributor is identified. |
| US09015847B1 |
Computer system for distributed discovery of vulnerabilities in applications
In one aspect, the disclosure provides: A method comprising: inviting a distributed plurality of researchers to participate in one or more computer vulnerability research projects directed to identifying computer vulnerabilities of one or more networks and/or computers that are owned or operated by a third party; assessing reputation and skills of one or more of the researchers, and accepting a subset of the researchers who have a positive reputation and sufficient skills to perform the investigations of the computer vulnerabilities; assigning a particular computer vulnerability research project, relating to a particular network under test, to a particular researcher from among the subset of the researchers; using a computer that is logically interposed between the particular researcher and the particular network under test, monitoring communications between the particular researcher and the particular network under test, wherein the communications relate to attempting to identify a candidate security vulnerability of the particular network under test; validating a report of the candidate security vulnerability of the particular network under test that is received from the particular researcher; determining and providing an award to the particular researcher in response to successfully validating the report of the candidate security vulnerability of the particular network under test that is received from the particular researcher. |
| US09015844B1 |
Techniques for web application vulnerability scanning
Techniques for web application vulnerability scanning are disclosed. In one particular embodiment, the techniques may be realized as a method for web application vulnerability scanning comprising crawling a web application for content associated with the web application, generating a client security policy based on the content associated with the web application, and scanning the web application for vulnerabilities based on the client security policy. |
| US09015836B2 |
Securing file trust with file format conversions
Approaches for ensuring a digital file does not contain malicious code. A digital file in an original format may or may not contain malicious code. An intermediate copy of the digital file in an intermediate format is created from the digital file in the original format. The intermediate format preserves a visual or audio presentation of the digital file without supporting metadata or file format data structures of the original format. A sterilized copy of the digital file is created from the intermediate copy. The sterilized copy is in the original format. The sterilized copy comprises a digital signature indicating that the sterilized copy has been converted from the intermediate format to the original format. Advantageously, the sterilized copy is guaranteed to not possess any malicious code. |
| US09015834B2 |
Mitigating just-in-time spraying attacks in a network environment
An example method for mitigating JIT spraying attacks in a network environment is provided and includes protecting an output of a just-in-time (JIT) compiler against attacks during application execution at least by intervening from outside the application into a JIT page generated by the JIT compiler in a memory element of a host. In a specific embodiment, the intervening can include rewriting the JIT page. In specific embodiments, the method can further include generating a shadow page corresponding to the JIT page in the memory element. The method can further include randomly choosing at least one block of instructions in the JIT page, moving the at least one block of instructions to the shadow page, and replacing the at least one block of instructions in the JIT page with at least one of invalid opcodes and halt instructions. |
| US09015829B2 |
Preventing and responding to disabling of malware protection software
Methods, systems, and apparatus, including computer programs encoded on a computer storage medium, for responding to an attempt to disable a malware protection program and performing an identification process and one or more protection processes to prevent the execution of potentially malicious code. In one aspect, a method includes monitoring for attempts to disable a malware protection program, identifying a process that generated an attempt to disable the malware protection program, determining whether the process is an approved process, and in response, performing one or more protection processes on the process so as to prevent the execution of potentially malicious code. |
| US09015823B2 |
Firewalls in logical networks
Some embodiments provide a method for configuring a logical firewall in a hosting system that includes a set of nodes. The logical firewall is part of a logical network that includes a set of logical forwarding elements. The method receives a configuration for the firewall that specifies packet processing rules for the firewall. The method identifies several of the nodes on which to implement the logical forwarding elements. The method distributes the firewall configuration for implementation on the identified nodes. At a node, the firewall of some embodiments receives a packet, from a managed switching element within the node, through a software port between the managed switching element and the distributed firewall application. The firewall determines whether to allow the packet based on the received configuration. When the packet is allowed, the firewall the packet back to the managed switching element through the software port. |
| US09015819B2 |
Method and system for single sign-on
A method and a system for single sign-on are provided by the present invention, wherein the method comprises: a terminal sending an authentication request carrying a user identity identification to an RP and the RP redirecting the authentication request to an authentication center; the authentication center authenticating the terminal by means of SIP Digest and redirecting the authentication result to the RP via the terminal; and the RP providing services for the terminal according to an authentication result. By the present invention, the resources required by the operators to deploy GBAs are reduced, at the same time the requirement of non-UICC terminals accessing IMS network can be met, and the relevant application services of the IMS network can be accessed by means of SSO. |
| US09015817B2 |
Resilient and restorable dynamic device identification
A computer system receives a request to access a server. The request includes a first device tag set. When the first device tag set matches a previously assigned device tag set, the computer system allows access to the server without requesting full access credentials of a user. The computer system invalidates the first device tag set, and sends a second device tag set. When the first device tag set does not match the previously assigned device tag set, the computer system requests full access credentials from the user. |
| US09015816B2 |
Key assignment for a brand
Systems and methods for providing secured network access are provided. A user device located within range of a branded hotspot initiates a request for the secured network access. The request concerns secured network access at the hotspot by the user device and includes a unique pre-shared key. A query regarding the unique pre-shared key is sent to a database, which retrieves information regarding a corresponding pre-shared key. That information is sent to the hotspot controller, which allows the user device secured network access as governed by one or more parameters associated with the pre-shared key. |
| US09015813B2 |
Systems and methods for authentication, verification, and payments
Computer systems and methods are provided for authenticating a user seeking to conduct at least one interaction with a secured capability provided by a computer. The method includes providing a first identifier to at least one verification server and providing a second identifier to an electronic device being used by the user. The first identifier and the second identifier each corresponds to the secured capability. The method further includes providing the electronic device with a user-selectable link configured to, upon being selected by the user, initiate a program to run on the electronic device. The program is configured to transmit a third identifier to the at least one verification server. The third identifier corresponds to the secured capability. The method further includes receiving authorization information from at least one of the electronic device and the at least one verification server. The method further includes using a processor (e.g., a processor of the computer) to provide the user with access to conduct the at least one interaction with the secured capability in response at least to the authorization information. |
| US09015812B2 |
Transparent control of access invoking real-time analysis of the query history
The invention relates to a method for granting an inquirer querying a repository access to the repository, a communication protocol between a client and a server, and a system for controlling access of at least one inquirer to a repository. The repository typically stores event data relating to traceable products. The aspects according to teaching disclosed herein may be for example implemented as security extensions for existing repositories providing a finer granularity of access rights and means to prevent an exposure of data sets considered sensitive. The security extensions disclosed herein may be implemented to protect access to any kind of client/server application wherein the server is exposing sensitive data. |
| US09015811B2 |
Methods, systems, and computer program products for managing media content by capturing media content at a client device and storing the media content at a network accessible media repository
Media content is managed by defining a list of authorized recipients in a network accessible security information repository, recording media content at a client device, obtaining the list of authorized recipients at the client device, associating at least one of the authorized recipients with the media content, and transmitting the media content along with information identifying the at least one of the authorized recipients associated therewith from the client device to a network accessible media repository for storage therein. The media content includes audio, video, and/or image content. |
| US09015805B2 |
Terminal activation method
The invention relates to a method for activating a terminal (4) by an operator, the activation of the terminal allowing secured exchanges of information between the terminal (4) and a secured server, characterized in that it comprises the following steps for the terminal (4): receiving from the operator (2) a first piece of activation information, receiving from an authorization server (3) a second piece of activation information, using the first and second pieces of activation information for activating the terminal. |
| US09015804B2 |
Mobile human challenge-response test
Methods and systems for verifying whether a user requesting an online account is likely a human or an automated program are described. A request for an online account may be received from a mobile device. A human challenge-response test adapted for displaying on a mobile device is displayed on the mobile device. Upon viewing the human challenge-response test, the user enters the user's solution to the human challenge-response test on the mobile device. A response hash value is created based on the user's solution. The response hash value is sent to an account request server for verification. |
| US09015798B1 |
User authentication using pointing device
Methods and apparatus for performing user authentication using pointing device gestures are disclosed. An example method includes receiving, by a computing device, input data from a pointing device that is operatively coupled with the computing device, where the received input data corresponds with a user gesture, and comparing the received user gesture with one or more authorized user gestures to determine if the received user gesture matches one of the authorized user gestures, where each of the one or more authorized user gestures corresponds with at least one of a respective username and a respective password. If the received user gesture matches one of the authorized user gestures, the example method include granting access to the computing device and/or a user account. If the received user gesture does not match any of the authorized user gestures, the example method includes denying access to the computing device and/or the user account. |
| US09015797B1 |
System and method of isolation of resources using resource manager
Methods, systems, and computer program are provided for managing access to computer resources by receiving a request, from a client, for performing one or more operations on a computer resource; determining functions of a resource manager that are required to perform the requested one or more operations on the resource; obtaining metadata of the resource, security policies for the client to perform the requested one or more operations on the resource, and data about other operations requested by other clients on the resource; and performing the requested one or more operations on the resource when the requested one or more operations do not result in altering the metadata or violating the isolation of the resource by the requested one or more operations, do not result in violating the rights of the client, and do not result in distorting the results of the other operations requested by the other clients. |
| US09015792B2 |
Reporting and management of computer systems and data sources
A system and method are provided for managing data, such as for example security or other business data. For the example of security data, security data is received from a plurality of assets that may or may not be remotely located. A plurality of security metrics are computed and normalized according to thresholds. Security metrics are aggregated to generate an aggregate score, this may include weighting the metrics according to metric priorities. A change effort corresponding to each metric is also received and a corresponding change effort for the aggregate score is calculated. Aggregate scores and aggregate change efforts are analyzed to generate risk reduction recommendations. Upon instruction, metrics corresponding to an aggregate score may be displayed including recommendations of metrics for risk reduction. The recommended metrics may be selected according to analysis of change-to-effort ratios for the metrics. |
| US09015789B2 |
Computer security lock down methods
Embodiments of the present invention extend the enforcement of computer security policies by blocking device access as well as network access. In some embodiments, communications with external devices are blocked upon discovery that some aspect of the client computing facility is out of compliance vis-à-vis a security policy. |
| US09015788B2 |
Generation and provision of media metadata
Various embodiments related to the generation and provision of media metadata are disclosed. For example, one disclosed embodiment provides a computing device having a logic subsystem configured to execute instructions, and a data holding subsystem comprising instructions stored thereon that are executable by the processor to receive an input of a video and/or audio content item, and to compare the content item to one or more object descriptors each representing an object for locating within the content item to locate instances of one or more of the objects in the content item. The instructions are further executable to generate metadata for each object located in the video content item, and to receive a validating user input related to whether the metadata generated for a selected object is correct. |
| US09015787B2 |
Method and system for media processor
A system that incorporates teachings of the present disclosure may include, for example, a presentation device having a controller that performs operations including enabling a supply of power to a portable battery operated device from a presentation port where the presentation port is a high definition multimedia interface port by trickle charging a rechargeable battery of the portable battery operated device through the presentation port, and receiving from the portable battery operated device an audio-visual signal for presentation at the presentation device through the presentation port. Other embodiments are disclosed. |
| US09015786B2 |
Noise ingress detection
Methods and systems are provided for detection of noise ingress into a network. In an aspect, multiple access devices on the network are analyzed for noise ingress. In another aspect, using characterization data of components in the network and the detection of the noise at the access devices, the location of the noise ingress can be determined. |
| US09015784B2 |
System for acceleration of web page delivery
A method comprising running a web browser on one or more servers of a service center, and hosting files for a web page on a storage unit associated with the one or more servers. Upon receiving user input from a client device to the web browser at the service center, streaming interactive video web page is transmitted to the client device with substantially no detectable latency. |
| US09015780B2 |
Video transmission system having unicast and multicast modes and methods for use therewith
A video transmission system includes a video server module that selectively operates in a unicast mode and a multicast mode, wherein the video server module generates a video signal that includes a unicast video signal when the video server module is in the unicast mode and that includes a multicast video signal when the video server module is in the multicast mode. A wireless access device transmits the video signal to at least one mobile video device. |
| US09015769B2 |
Method for processing additional information related to an announced service or content in an NRT service and a broadcast receiver
A method of processing additional information related to an announced service or content in a Non-Real Time (NRT) service and the broadcast receiver are disclosed herein. A method of providing a Non-Real Time (NRT) service in a broadcasting receiver includes receiving a service map table (SMT) and a first descriptor through a service signaling channel, identifying an image identifier and an image type of an image for an NRT service based upon the first descriptor, receiving the image via a flute session and displaying the image when corresponding service is played, wherein the image is logo or icon data for the NRT service. The method may further include connecting a service signaling channel, parsing the received SMT and the first descriptor, determining whether a service is the NRT service based upon the parsed SMT and storing the received image. |
| US09015764B2 |
Differentiated PSIP table update interval technology
An apparatus, method and data structure for generating at least one table in a broadcast environment, are provided. The apparatus includes a generator to generate an event information table (EIT) and an extended text table (ETT). The ETT has program guide information for an n-hour span and has a transmission interval. The ETT has a transmission interval and program description information according to the EIT. The transmission interval of the EIT is shorter than the transmission interval of the ETT. |
| US09015763B2 |
Differentiated PSIP table update interval technology
An apparatus, method and data structure for generating at least one table in a broadcast environment, are provided. The apparatus includes a generator to generate an event information table (EIT) and an extended text table (ETT). The ETT has program guide information for an n-hour span and has a transmission interval. The ETT has a transmission interval and program description information according to the EIT. The transmission interval of the EIT is shorter than the transmission interval of the ETT. |
| US09015759B2 |
Interactive map and related content for an entertainment program
A system and method for providing interactive content that is correlated to events of an entertainment program. |
| US09015758B2 |
Display apparatus for processing multiple applications and method for controlling the same
A method of controlling a display apparatus and which includes displaying received audio and video contents on a display unit of the display apparatus, receiving a request signal for executing an application browser and displaying a list of applications stored in a memory associated with the display apparatus, the list of applications stored in the memory including an editable application group including at least one application that can be edited and a non-editable application group including at least one application that cannot be edited; generating graphic data representing the applications included in the editable application group and non-editable application group; and displaying the received video data in a first area of the display unit and displaying the generated graphic data representing the applications in a second area within the first area. |
| US09015755B2 |
System and method for an automatic television channel change
A system and method for automatically changing channels. A user selection of a channel and a time associated with media content is received. The current time is determined. A display is powered on in response to determining the display is off. A display is automatically changed to the channel in response to the current time matching the selected time. The media content received through the channel is displayed. |
| US09015754B2 |
Virtual channel table for a broadcast protocol and method of broadcasting and receiving broadcast signals using the same
A virtual channel table for broadcasting protocol and a method for broadcasting by using the virtual channel table includes identification information identifying and permitting discrimination of active and inactive channels contained in the virtual channel table. At a receiver, the virtual channel table transmitted from the transmitting side is parsed, thereby determining whether the current received channel is an active or inactive channel. |
| US09015751B2 |
Image display device and method for operating same
The present invention relates to an image display device and to a method for operating same. The method for operating the image display device according to one embodiment of the present invention includes: replaying content; when a command for storing the replayed content exists, storing at least one portion of the replayed content; displaying a content object indicating the stored content; displaying objects indicating another user or electric device for an accessed network or another network linked to the accessed network; and, when a content object is dragged and dropped in a selected object among the objects indicating the other user or electronic device, transmitting content corresponding to a selected object and having been selected by a user or stored in a selected electronic device. Therefore, the present invention can enhance use convenience for users. |
| US09015745B2 |
Method and system for detection of user-initiated events utilizing automatic content recognition
Systems, methods and/or techniques for detection of user-initiated events in relation to a media device are described, for example utilizing a content recognition system. A method may be executed in a media device that is operable to play video content. The method may include receiving user interaction with the media device and the user interaction causes initiation of a feature that affects video content that plays on the media device. The method may include receiving one or more interactive events from a content recognition system in response to the user interaction. The method may comprise executing the one or more interactive events to affect video content that is playing on the media device, and display one or more overlay windows corresponding to the affected video content. One or more video fingerprints that correspond to the affected video content may be communicated to the content recognition system. |
| US09015739B2 |
Systems and methods for improved audience measuring
Systems and methods for measuring audience information of programs are described. Systems and methods for providing audience information to users of interactive television applications are described. |
| US09015738B2 |
Video stream measurement
A video stream measurement method and system. The method includes receiving by a computing system, a video stream comprising plurality of timestamps located at specified intervals of the video stream. The computing system broadcasts the video stream for a user and decodes a first time stamp broadcasted during a first time period. The computing system monitors a user interaction function performed by the user and associated with the video stream. The computing system generates and transmits a report comprising a description associated with the user interaction function. The computing system receives an analysis associated with the report. |
| US09015736B2 |
Systems and methods for episode tracking in an interactive media environment
Systems and methods for monitoring a user's viewing progress of media in a series are provided. The user may setup a media profile containing a list of program series to be monitored. The interactive media monitoring application may track the user's viewing progress of programs in the program series on the user equipment and update the user's media profile. The user may request and watch programs in the series at the user's leisure while peripheral media content may be filtered to be consistent with the user's viewing progress in the series. |
| US09015735B2 |
Disk-shaped information recording medium, disk cartridge, and information recording/reproducing apparatus
The disk-shaped information recording medium having an outer diameter and an inner diameter comprises a substrate having a predetermined thickness, a first side that is one side of the substrate, a second side that is the other side of the substrate, a cylindrical portion forming a through hole formed at a center of the substrate, and a thin portion formed so as to surround an outer diameter of the cylindrical portion. The thin portion is thinner than the predetermined thickness and includes a non-inclined surface and an inclined surface formed on an outer diameter side of the non-inclined surface. The inclined surface is inclined at an angle greater than or equal to 25 degrees and less than or equal to 35 degrees with respect to the non-inclined surface. |
| US09015732B2 |
Information processing apparatus and control method thereof
An information processing apparatus capable of performing exclusive control on a communication channel for communicating with a peripheral apparatus among a device driver for the peripheral apparatus and a plurality of communication programs identifies, if the device driver is instructed to start up, which of the plurality of communication programs is using the communication channel by acquiring process information that is managed by an operating system (OS), issues a request to the identified communication program to close the communication channel, and enables the device driver to use the communication channel. |
| US09015729B2 |
Mobile apparatus executing efficient dataflow execution for mobile context monitoring, method of executing dataflow using the same, method of context monitoring using the same and context monitoring system including the same
A mobile apparatus includes a processing planner and a plan processor. The processing planner generates a plurality of resource use plans in response to a context monitoring query (CMQ) of an application, and selects a final plan satisfying a request of the CMQ among the resource use plans. The plan processor executes the final plan. Accordingly, the mobile apparatus may support resource-efficient context monitoring. |
| US09015728B2 |
Methods, apparatus, and systems to access runtime values of object instances
In one embodiment, a plurality of executable instructions is stored at a first software module. The plurality of executable instructions are collectively configured to provide an identifier of a first object instance to a second software module stored at a memory and executed at the processor. The identifier of the first object instance is received at the second software module in response to execution of the plurality of executable instructions and a textual object element identifier is selected from a plurality of textual object element identifiers. Each textual object element identifier from the plurality of textual object element identifiers uniquely associated with an object element. An identifier of a second object instance is accessed and the object element uniquely associated with the textual object element identifier is reflectively accessed at the second object instance. The first object instance derived from the second object instance. |
| US09015723B2 |
Resource optimization for real-time task assignment in multi-process environments
A novel and useful system and method of decentralized decision-making for real-time scheduling in a multi-process environment. For each process step and/or resource capable of processing a particular step, a service index is calculated. The calculation takes into account several measures, such as business level measures, operational measures and employee level measure. The decision of which process step a resource should next work on or what step to assign to a resource is based on the service index calculation and, optionally, other production factors. In one embodiment, the resource is assigned the process step with the maximal service index. Alternatively, when a resource becomes available, all process steps the resource is capable of processing are presented in order of descending service index. The resource then selects which process step to work on next. |
| US09015722B2 |
Efficient cache reuse through application determined scheduling
A method of determining a thread from a plurality of threads to execute a task in a multi-processor computer system. The plurality of threads is grouped into at least one subset associated with a cache memory of the computer system. The task has a type determined by a set of instructions. The method obtains an execution history of the subset of plurality of threads and determines a weighting for each of the set of instructions and the set of data, the weightings depending on the type of the task. A suitability of the subset of the threads to execute the task based on the execution history and the determined weightings, is then determined. Subject to the determined suitability of the subset of threads, the method determining a thread from the subset of threads to execute the task using content of the cache memory associated with the subset of threads. |
| US09015721B2 |
Managing array computations during programmatic run-time in a distributed computing environment
A plurality of array partitions are defined for use by a set of tasks of the program run-time. The array partitions can be determined from one or more arrays that are utilized by the program at run-time. Each of the plurality of computing devices are assigned to perform one or more tasks in the set of tasks. By assigning each of the plurality of computing devices to perform one or more tasks, an objective to reduce data transfer amongst the plurality of computing devices can be implemented. |
| US09015720B2 |
Efficient state transition among multiple programs on multi-threaded processors by executing cache priming program
A system and method to optimize processor performance and minimizing average thread latency by selectively loading a cache when a program state, resources required for execution of a program or the program itself change, is described. An embodiment of the invention supports a “cache priming program” that is selectively executed for a first thread/program/sub-routine of each process. Such a program is optimized for situations when instructions and other program data are not yet resident in cache(s), and/or whenever resources required for program execution or the program itself changes. By pre-loading the cache with two resources required for two instructions for only a first thread, average thread latency is reduced because the resources are already present in the cache. Since, such a mechanism is carried out only for one thread in a program cycle, pitfalls of a conventional general pre-fetch scheme that involves parsing of the program in advance to determine which resources and instructions will be needed at a later time, are avoided. |
| US09015714B2 |
Diagnostic virtual machine created to monitor cluster of hypervisors based on user requesting assistance from cluster administrator
A diagnostic virtual machine having access to resources of an infrastructure as a service cloud may be created. A user device may be provided access to the diagnostic virtual machine. In some embodiments, the diagnostic virtual machine may be configured to monitor a cluster of hypervisors, and the resources of the infrastructure as a service cloud which the diagnostic virtual machine has access to may include physical resources of the infrastructure as a service cloud that are associated with the cluster of hypervisors. |
| US09015713B2 |
Facilitating customer-initiated virtual machine migration and swapping
A system and an article of manufacture for facilitating customer-initiated virtual machine (VM) migration and swapping include obtaining documentation of at least one performance parameter of two or more virtual machines running on two or more physical machines, obtaining a request for a virtual machine exchange from a user of a first virtual machine, wherein the request comprises a preference for at least one desired performance parameter in at least one additional virtual machine, matching the request from the user of the first virtual machine with at least one additional virtual machine that includes the at to least one desired performance parameter without assistance from a cloud provider, and exchanging the first virtual machine with a virtual machine from the at least one additional virtual machine that includes the at least one desired performance parameter. |
| US09015711B2 |
Power management of video display devices by virtual machines
A system and method for display power management in a virtualized environment are disclosed. In accordance with one embodiment, a hypervisor receives a notification that a host operating system has received a command to dim a display, and forwards the notification to a guest operating system hosted by a virtual machine. The hypervisor receives from the guest operating system a first signal that indicates that the hypervisor is to notify the host operating system to refrain from executing the command. The hypervisor then transmits a second signal that notifies the host operating system to refrain from executing the command. |
| US09015710B2 |
Deployment system for multi-node applications
A deployment system provides the ability to deploy a multi-node distributed application, such as a cloud computing platform application, which has a plurality of interconnected nodes performing specialized jobs. The deployment system includes a deployment director that provisions an infrastructure that includes one or more virtual machines (VMs) for hosting the plurality of nodes of the cloud computing platform application. The deployment director distributes a plurality of jobs (e.g., application packages and configurations) to deployment agents executing on the provisioned VMs, based on a mapping in the deployment manifest between the infrastructure and the plurality of specialized jobs to be performed by the cloud computing platform application. The deployment agents apply the jobs to their respective VM (e.g., launching applications), thereby deploying the cloud computing platform application. |
| US09015705B2 |
Computing device having a migrated virtual machine accessing physical storage space on another computing device
A method and a computing device. A first computing device and a second computing device are connected, wherein the first computing device includes a first virtual machine monitor that hosts a first virtual machine. A boot image is provided on the first computing device, wherein the boot image includes a second virtual machine monitor that is adapted to host the first virtual machine. The second computing device is triggered to boot the boot image from the first computing device. A storage network is established between the first computing device and the second computing device, wherein the storage network includes storage space of the first computing device. Lastly, the first virtual machine is migrated from the first computing device to the second computing device, wherein the first virtual machine is executed by the second computing device but still located on the first virtual machine. |
| US09015704B2 |
Context agent injection using virtual machine introspection
A computer implemented method, apparatus, and computer usable program code for executing a process within a virtual machine. A module is injected into an operating system for the virtual machine to form an injected module. The injected module is executed to load an agent process within an application space within the virtual machine. Execution of the agent process is initiated by the injected module. |
| US09015703B2 |
Enforcement of compliance policies in managed virtual systems
Techniques are disclosed for controlling and managing virtual machines and other such virtual systems. VM execution approval is based on compliance with policies controlling various aspects of VM. The techniques can be employed to benefit all virtual environments, such as virtual machines, virtual appliances, and virtual applications. For ease of discussion herein, assume that a virtual machine (VM) represents each of these environments. In one particular embodiment, a systems management partition (SMP) is created inside the VM to provide a persistent and resilient storage for management information (e.g., logical and physical VM metadata). The SMP can also be used as a staging area for installing additional content or agentry on the VM when the VM is executed. Remote storage of management information can also be used. The VM management information can then be made available for pre-execution processing, including policy-based compliance testing. |
| US09015700B2 |
Methods and articles of manufacture for hosting a safety critical application on an uncontrolled data processing device
Methods and articles of manufacture for hosting a safety critical application on an uncontrolled data processing device are provided. Various combinations of installation, functional, host integrity, coexistence, interoperability, power management, and environment checks are performed at various times to determine if the safety critical application operates properly on the device. The operation of the SCA on the UDPD may be controlled accordingly. |
| US09015699B2 |
Methods and articles of manufacture for hosting a safety critical application on an uncontrolled data processing device
Methods and articles of manufacture for hosting a safety critical application on an uncontrolled data processing device are provided. Various combinations of installation, functional, host integrity, coexistence, interoperability, power management, and environment checks are performed at various times to determine if the safety critical application operates properly on the device. The operation of the SCA on the UDPD may be controlled accordingly. |
| US09015693B2 |
System and method for modifying and updating a speech recognition program
The system provides a speech recognition program, an update website for updating a speech recognition program, and a way of storing data. A user may utilize an update website, to add, modify, and delete items that may comprise speech commands, dll's, multimedia files, executable code, and other information. Speech recognition program may communicate with update website to request information about possible updates. Update website may send a response consisting of information to speech recognition program. Speech recognition program may utilize received information to decide what items to download. A speech recognition program may send one or more requests to update website to download items. Update website may respond by transmitting, requested items to a speech recognition program that overwrite existing items with newly received items. |
| US09015688B2 |
Vectorization of scalar functions including vectorization annotations and vectorized function signatures matching
Methods and apparatuses associated with vectorization of scalar callee functions are disclosed herein. In various embodiments, compiling a first program may include generating one or more vectorized versions of a scalar callee function of the first program, based at least in part on vectorization annotations of the first program. Additionally, compiling may include generating one or more vectorized function signatures respectively associated with the one or more vectorized versions of the scalar callee function. The one or more vectorized function signatures may enable an appropriate vectorized version of the scalar callee function to be matched and invoked for a generic call from a caller function of a second program to a vectorized version of the scalar callee function. |