| Document | Document Title |
|---|---|
| US09039466B2 |
Crimp terminal having engaging portions extending forward from core crimping portions
A crimp terminal (10) has a connecting portion (12) that is conductively connected to an electrical connection target, a crimp portion (14) that is fixed by crimping to a core (58) of a coated wire (56), and a link (16) extending between the connecting portion (12) and the crimp portion (14). The crimp portion (14) has a placement portion (36) on which the core (58) of the coated wire (56) is placed, and a core crimping portion (38) protruding from opposite edges of the placement portion (36). Extended portions (48) are provided on ends of the core crimping portions (38) toward the link (16) and at least one engaging corner (52) is formed on an upper end surface (50) of each of the extended portions (48). |
| US09039462B2 |
Cell voltage measuring connector for fuel cell stack
A connector that may be prevented from detaching from separating plates of a stack even when vibrations or an external impact of a vehicle occurs by maintaining a locking state in which locking bosses of a CPA are inserted into lock grooves of terminals of separating plates. In addition, connecting points of connecting pieces of connecting terminals are spaced apart to not contact each other with respect to a contact line. The connecting terminals are not detached from the separating plates even when the separating plates is a ultra-slim film having a thickness of about 0.1 mm or less, making it possible to increase a reliability of a product. |
| US09039458B2 |
Miniaturization connector assembly
A connector is provided, which can seek miniaturization by suppressing external form dimensions of an inner housing. The connector includes, as means for engaging and uniting housing division bodies 20 and 30 that constitute the inner housing 10, engagement pieces 22 equipped on one side of the housing division bodies and inserted between adjacent terminal accommodation portions 13 in the other side of the housing division bodies, and locking portions equipped between the terminal accommodation portions 13 in the other side of the housing division bodies and engaged with the inserted engagement pieces to make the housing division bodies 20 and 30 in a connection state. |
| US09039453B2 |
Electrical connector
An electrical connector includes a body, a trace, a terminal, and an engaging element. The body includes a recessed groove. The trace includes a first contact portion and a connection segment. The first contact portion is formed on a surface of the body and connected to the connection segment. The connection segment is formed on an inner surface of the recessed groove. The terminal is supported by the body and comprises a second contact portion. The terminal is partially exposed in the recessed groove and the second contact portion extends out of the body. The engaging element is provided in the recessed groove and electrically connect the connection segment and the terminal. |
| US09039450B2 |
Termination arrangement for a cable bundle
A termination arrangement for a cable bundle includes a body with a cable cavity extending therethrough with the plurality of cables extending into the cable cavity. The body includes a cable attachment end through which the cable bundle enters the cable cavity. The cable attachment end includes an annular-shaped sealing recess radially surrounding a portion of the cable cavity. The sealing recess has an inner wall, an outer wall radially surrounding the inner wall, and a bottom wall joining the inner wall and the outer wall. An electromagnetic shield radially surrounds the cable bundle outside of the cavity and extends into the sealing recess. An insulation tubing radially surrounds the electromagnetic shield and the cable bundle outside of the cable cavity and extends into the sealing recess. A collar secured to the cable attachment end retains the electromagnetic shield and the insulation tubing within the sealing recess. |
| US09039447B2 |
Terminal fitting
A lance which protrudes from the outside surface of a terminal body to prevent falling out of a cavity of a connector housing includes a lance body of an inclined plate shape whose protruding length from the outer surface of the terminal body towards the outside gradually increases from the front end side of the terminal body to the back end side, and a shielding plate which extends from the back end edge of the lance body towards the outer surface of the terminal body so that an opening which opens towards a terminal back end is not formed between the back end edge of the lance body and the outer surface. |
| US09039446B2 |
Coaxial cable connector with alignment and compression features
A coaxial cable connector for coupling a coaxial cable to an electrical device includes a body, a threaded fitting, and an alignment mechanism carried and compressed between the body and the fitting so as to exert an axial force against the fitting to maintain electrical contact between the fitting and the body. The body of the connector includes an outer barrel formed with an inner compression band, and a compression collar carried on the outer barrel and formed with an inner compression band. In response to compression of the connector by a compression tool, the inner and outer compression bands deform and move from an uncompressed condition to a compressed condition crimped onto the coaxial cable so as to securely apply the connector to the coaxial cable. |
| US09039437B2 |
Lock device
A lock device locks a locking subject and includes a lock member moved between a lock position for locking the locking subject and an unlock position for unlocking the locking subject. A first urging member urges the lock member to the lock position. A switching member moves between a first position where the switch member fixes the lock member at the lock position and a second position where the switch member permits the lock member to unlock the locking subject. A first actuator drives the switching member. A position detector is arranged in a power supply line connected to the first actuator. The position detector detects whether the lock member has been moved from the unlock position to the lock position subject and permits the supply of power to the first actuator when detecting the movement. |
| US09039436B2 |
Electrical connector with automatic engagement
This electrical connector (R) comprises a first connection element (100) and a second connection element (200). The two connection elements (100, 200) are able to be coupled to one another according to a coupling axis and comprise at least one pin and at least one respective contact, a locking mechanism (104, 218) comprising at least one locking pin (104) arranged on a body of the first connection element (100) and at least one locking ring (216) mounted rotatingly around a body of the second connection element (200) and comprising a locking groove (218) with an outlet (236) and a locking notch (238), means for indexing making it possible to position the bodies in relation to one another around the coupling axis in an indexed configuration. The second connection element (200) comprises a safety ring (220) mounted axially mobile in relation to the locking ring (216) and comprising at least one safety catch (234). In addition, the safety ring (220) is able to be pushed back by the locking pin (104) during coupling between, a first position, wherein the safety catch (234) blocks the passage of the pin towards the outlet (236), and a second position, wherein the safety catch (234) authorises the passage of the pin, with the safety ring (220) being drawn back elastically to its first position. In addition, each locking groove (218) comprises at the front, a chamfer delimiting the outlet and the rotation range of the locking ring is limited. Finally, in the indexed configuration of the bodies, the axis of travel (X4-X4) of the pin (104) intersects the outlet (238) over the entire the rotation range of the locking ring. |
| US09039435B2 |
Ground terminal assembly structure
A ground terminal assembly includes ground terminals (10A, 10B) and a connecting fitting (30). Each ground terminal (10A, 10B) has a main portion (11A, 11B) with a bolt insertion hole (12). A barrel (20A, 20B) extends from the main portion (11A, 11B) and can be crimped to a ground wire W. The connecting fitting (30) has superimposing portions (31A, 31B) formed with bolt insertion holes (32) and on which the main portions (11A, 11B) of the ground terminals (10A, 10B) are placed. The barrels (20A, 20B) of the ground terminals (10A, 10B) are arranged so that their extending ends (22) come close to each other when the main portions (11A, 11B) of the ground terminals (10A, 10B) are placed on and connected to the corresponding superimposing portions (31A, 31B) of the connecting fitting (30) at positions where the bolt insertion holes (12, 32) align. |
| US09039434B2 |
Plug and socket for providing electrical power to vehicle accessories
A plug including a housing that defines a cavity and an opening into the cavity. A flange extends radially inwardly into the opening of the housing. A tip assembly is received by the opening of the housing. The tip assembly includes a positive terminal that extends between a proximal portion in the cavity of the housing and a distal portion outside of the housing for electrical connection with the vehicle accessory. The tip assembly includes a sleeve that is sealingly disposed about the proximal portion of the positive terminal. The sleeve includes a projection that extends radially outwardly therefrom adjacent to the proximal portion of the positive terminal in sealing engagement with the flange of the housing to sealingly interconnect the tip assembly and the housing for preventing liquids from flowing from outside of the housing between the positive terminal and the sleeve into the cavity of the housing. |
| US09039432B2 |
System and method for high connectivity platform
A system comprises a plurality of port cards arranged along a first orientation, the port cards operable to receive data from one or more nodes on a network. The system also comprises a plurality of switch-fabric cards arranged along a second orientation orthogonal to the first orientation, the switch-fabric cards operable to route data between the one or more port cards based on one or more rules. The system further comprises a plurality of bridge cards coupling the one or more port cards to the one or more switch-fabric cards, the bridge cards arranged physically between the port cards and switch-fabric cards. |
| US09039430B2 |
Electric connector, train-information transmission/reception system, and method for connecting electric connector
There is provided an electric connector that is interposed between an in-vehicle wire cable and a train information transmission/reception apparatus. The in-vehicle wire cable includes a plurality of signal lines that transmit train information and an electrically-conductive shielded layer surrounding the signal lines. One end of a ground line is connected to the shielded layer. A casing ground is provided on a casing of the train information transmission/reception apparatus and a plurality of plug pins electrically connected to the signal lines are provided on the casing of the train information transmission/reception apparatus. The other end of the ground line is connected to an electrically-conductive connector case, which is a casing of the electric connector, and the connector case is grounded via the casing of the train information transmission/reception apparatus when the signal lines and the plug pins are electrically connected to each other. |
| US09039429B2 |
Wire-to-board connector
A wire-to-board connector includes a plug attached to an electric wire and a receptacle mounted on a substrate. The plug and receptacle are formed by bending a metal plate. The electric wire is electrically connected to the substrate by fitting the plug with the receptacle. The receptacle includes an accommodating section formed in a tubular shape. The plug includes an insertion section to be inserted into the accommodating section. The insertion section has a claw and the accommodating section has an engaging surface. By inserting the insertion section into the accommodating section, the claw is engaged with the engaging surface and the plug is fitted with the receptacle. The claw and the engaging surface are configured so as to prevent a pull-out force acted on the electric wire from acting to disengage the engaged state between the claw and the engaging surface. |
| US09039423B2 |
Rotary electrical interconnect device
A rotary device for providing continuous electrical connections between dynamic, rotationally engaged connector components. The rotary device includes a rotor assembly comprising a plurality of slip ring elements electrically connected to a connector or cable at the rotor end of the device. The rotary device also includes a stator assembly configured to receive the rotor assembly, with slide contacts electrically connected to a connector or cable at the stator end of the device. The rotor assembly is rotationally coupled to the stator assembly, and the slip rings and slide contacts maintain electrical contact during rotation of the rotor assembly relative to the stator assembly. A first electronic device and a second electronic device connected using the rotary device can be freely rotated without twisting of the cable between the two devices. A method for assembling a rotary device configured based on the devices to be connected. |
| US09039421B2 |
Educational apparatus
An educational apparatus for educating, testing and entertaining individuals includes a rotatable spherical element, a planar support structure and a plurality of rollers for supporting the spherical element for rotational movement. The planar support structure defines an elevated planar surface with a circular opening therein. The rotatable rollers are hingedly mounted to the planar support structure around the opening for supporting the spherical element with a majority of the spherical element above the level of the planar support structure. A fixed element is fixed to the spherical element and a magnetic complimentary element is disposed adjacent the spherical element for contact by the fixed element. |
| US09039420B1 |
Team-building educational training system
The team-building educational training system includes a mat and a plurality of reflective surfaces, such as mirrors. The mat has a top surface, a bottom surface, and a plurality of openings defined therein. The top and bottom surfaces each have a plurality of uniquely identifiable indicia displayed thereon. The reflective surfaces are placed on the floor or ground under the mat. The team cooperatively lifts and manipulates the mat to align the openings with the reflective surfaces so that at least one team member can view reflections of the indicia on the reflective surfaces. The team cooperatively interprets the indicia and completes a variety of planned exercises to learn skills for working as a team. |
| US09039417B2 |
Jaw implant
A jaw implant includes an implant body comprising a top end, a base end, an axial line, an acute-angled long side, an obtuse-angled short side, a body core. An oval opening disposed at the top end comprises an opening edge lying in an opening plane inclined with an angle of inclination of 75° to 45° with respect to the axial line so that the implant body has an axial length on the acute-angled long side longer than on the obtuse-angled short side. An external thread structure comprises a lead comprising a lower side facing the base end, an upper side facing the top end, and a wedge angle disposed between the upper side and the lower side. A bisecting line of the wedge angle and the axial line of the implant body form a tilt angle which is smaller on the acute-angled long side than on the obtuse-angled short side. |
| US09039414B2 |
Drill guide pin, shank, cannulated drill bit, and driver for creating a hole in a bone
According to one embodiment, a dental implant system for implanting a dental implant in bone tissue using an implant drill driver includes a shank and a drill guide. The shank is removably coupleable to the implant drill driver and includes an internal passage that has a non-round cross-sectional shape. When coupled to the implant drill driver, the shank is rotatable via operation of the implant drill driver. The drill guide pin includes a bone penetrating end portion and a shank engagement portion. The shank engagement portion includes a notched section having a non-round cross-sectional shape corresponding with the non-round cross-sectional shape of the internal passage of the shank. The notched section of the shank engagement portion is insertable within the internal passage of the shank. Moreover, engagement between the notched section and the internal passage facilitates co-rotation of the shank and drill guide pin. |
| US09039408B2 |
Combustor with a combustion region between an inner pipe and outer pipe with an ignition device upstream of the combustion region
Includes a low flow-rate region (R2) that is disposed on an upstream side of a combustion region (R1) within a second pipe (2), and that has a relatively slow flow-rate of combustion gas (G1) within the second pipe, and a flame kernel formation unit (3a) is disposed in the low flow-rate region. |
| US09039403B2 |
Extrusion line for producing peroxide-cross-linked polyethylene pipes
An extrusion line for the production of peroxide cross-linked polyethylene pipes includes a cross-linking oven (5, 13) having an actuated deflection roller (7). The cross-linking oven has a first heating section (A) that extends from an inlet to said deflection roller (7) and a second heating section (B) that extends from said deflection roller to an outlet. An element is provided for adjusting a height of the deflection roller (7) and an angle of the first and second heating sections (A, B) relative to a horizontal plane. |
| US09039402B2 |
Imprinting apparatus and method therefor
There is provided an imprinting apparatus that transfers a pattern of a mold to a resin on a substrate, the imprinting apparatus including a deposition mechanism configured to deposit the resin onto the substrate; a first driving mechanism configured to change a relative position, on a plane parallel to the surface of the substrate, of the substrate and the mold; a second driving mechanism configured to change the relative position, on a plane parallel to the surface of the substrate, of the substrate and the deposition mechanism; and a control unit configured to control the deposition mechanism and the driving mechanism so as to perform a resin deposition process of depositing the resin onto the substrate and an imprint process of transferring the pattern of the mold to the resin on the substrate in parallel. |
| US09039400B2 |
Rigid core for forming tire
A rigid core for forming a tire is configured so that the non-uniformity of the amount of thermal expansion of the core body is reduced to improve the quality of the tire. The core body comprises divided core pieces (10i , 10o) divided inward and outward in a tire radial direction at a tire radial position (P) including a maximum width position (P0) of the tire forming surface. Outward divided core pieces (10o) disposed outward in the tire radial direction than the maximum width position (P0) and inward divided core pieces (10i) disposed inward in the tire radial direction than the maximum width position (P0) are respectively formed of metal materials different from each other in coefficient of thermal expansion. The coefficient of thermal expansion of the inward divided core piece (10i) is higher than a coefficient of thermal expansion of the outward divided core piece (10o). |
| US09039394B2 |
Ceiling fan with suspension detection
A ceiling fan includes a suspending part fixed to a ceiling and a ceiling fan body suspended via the suspending part. The ceiling fan body has a plurality of horizontally-provided blades, a motor that rotates the blades, a shaft protruding from an upper side of the motor, and a joint part that is fixed to an upper side of the shaft and is connected to the suspending part. The joint part is detachable from the suspending part and is provided with a suspension detecting part extending from the joint part to the suspending part. The suspension detecting part detecting an energized state between the suspending part and the joint part. |
| US09039393B2 |
Centrifugal blower with asymmetric blade spacing
A centrifugal blower in a cooling system of an electronic device having asymmetrical blade spacing with acceptable balance. The asymmetrical blade spacing is determined according to a set of desired acoustic artifacts that are favorable and balance that is similar to that found with equal fan blade spacing. In one embodiment, the fan impeller can include thirty one fan blades. The perceived sound quality from the fan is improved with essentially no effect on the thermal performance of the fan. |
| US09039391B2 |
Bearing spacer and housing
An exemplary center housing rotating assembly includes a turbine wheel (260); a compressor wheel (240); a center housing (210) that includes a through bore (215), extending from a compressor end to a turbine end along a bore axis, and a recess (217), adjacent the bore, in a plane orthogonal to the bore axis; a bearing assembly (230) positioned in the bore that includes a keyway (233); and an anti-rotation component (280) seated in the recess and at least partially in the keyway to restrict rotation of the bearing assembly in the bore. Various other exemplary devices, systems, methods, etc., are also disclosed. |
| US09039387B2 |
Supercharged compressor and method for controlling a supercharged compressor
A supercharged compressor and method of operating the compressor supplies a commercial vehicle with compressed air. The compressor includes a piston chamber, a dead space or clearance volume and a valve unit for switching the clearance volume. The valve element is configured such that the air volume supplied by the supercharged compressor can be reduced to a value that is different from zero by activating the clearance volume. |
| US09039386B2 |
Tire inflation system
A tire inflation system including a drive mechanism having a rotational axis, a pump cavity positioned a radial distance away from the axis of rotation, and a force translator coupling the rotational axis to the pump cavity. The drive mechanism includes a cam comprising an arcuate bearing surface having a non-uniform curvature, the cam rotatable about the rotational axis, and an eccentric mass couple to the cam that offsets a center of mass of the drive mechanism from the rotational axis. The pump cavity is rotatably coupled to the cam, wherein the pump cavity includes an actuating element and a chamber. The force translator couples the arcuate bearing surface to the actuating element, wherein the force translator includes an axis having an arcuate position fixed to an arcuate position of the pump cavity. |
| US09039384B2 |
Suction duct with adjustable diametric fit
A suction duct for a compressor such as a scroll compressor may include a plastic ring body with a metal screen heat staked in a window of the ring body to filter refrigerant gas entering the motor cavity. The ring body may be in surrounding relation of the motor and resiliently compressed in the housing through intermittent contact with the inner housing surface to better seal around the inlet port. Oil drain channels and stabilizing ribs may be along the outside surface of the ring body. |
| US09039382B2 |
Blade skirt
A blade of a gas turbine engine is provided having an airfoil, a platform, a shank, a dovetail, and a skirt. The airfoil may extend distally from the platform, and the shank may extend proximally from the platform. The dovetail may also be provided to extend proximally from the shank. The skirt may be disposed on an aft side of the shank and may extend from the shank in a direction at least partially axially aft from the shank. |
| US09039380B2 |
Winglet for a wind turbine rotor blade
A winglet for a rotor blade is disclosed. The winglet may generally include a winglet body extending between a first end and a second end. The winglet body may define a sweep and may have a curvature defined by a curve fit including a first radius of curvature and a second radius of curvature. The sweep between the first end and the second end may range from about 580 millimeters to about 970 millimeters. Additionally, the first radius of curvature may range from about 1500 millimeters to about 2500 millimeters and the second radius of curvature may range from about 1200 millimeters to about 2000 millimeters. |
| US09039379B2 |
Retention device for a composite blade of a gas turbine engine
A liner for a composite blade of a gas turbine engine includes a metallic shoe, operable substantially to encase a blade root of a composite blade and defining an inner surface and an outer surface. The liner also includes a retention lug formed on the shoe and has inner and outer keys that project from opposed portions of the inner and outer surfaces. The keys engage corresponding recesses on a dovetail slot and a blade root to resist axial displacement of the composite blade. |
| US09039375B2 |
Non-axisymmetric airfoil platform shaping
Turbine blade assemblies of a turbine include airfoils that are mounted on bases. The leading and/or trailing edges of the bases are provided with curved portions. Likewise, curved portions may be provided on leading and/or trailing edges of the angle wings of a turbine blade assembly. Also, curved portions may be provided on the leading and/or trailing edges of nozzle assemblies of a turbine. |
| US09039372B2 |
Wind turbine blade
The invention relates to a wind turbine blade with at least one control surface and an actuator inside the main body of the wind turbine blade for moving the control surface, wherein the actuator comprises a fluidic muscle, a controller and a pump, and wherein the fluidic muscle is adapted to change in length and width when the pressure of the fluid within the fluidic muscle is varied. |
| US09039370B2 |
Turbine nozzle
A nozzle arrangement for a gas turbine engine comprising a first housing member and a second housing member. The nozzle arrangement may further include a first nozzle and a second nozzle. Each of the first nozzle and second nozzle may extend between the first housing member and the second housing member so as to form a doublet. A plurality of cooling apertures may be arranged on at least one of the first nozzle, the second nozzle, the first housing member, or the second housing member so as to provide a different degree of first order cooling across the doublet. |
| US09039367B2 |
Propeller windmill for small-sized power generator
Provided is a small-sized propeller windmill which can efficiently generate power even when a wing speed is low, has no possibility that the windmill is broken even when a strong wind blows, can stably ensure a weathercock direction of a base blade, and can suppress an environmental burden, in such a propeller windmill, the blade having a corrugated wing shape is supported in a cantilever manner by way of an elastic body, and the blade and the elastic body are made of paper or plastic. Further, to stably ensure the weathercock. direction of the base blade, a weathercock stabilizing mechanism is arranged behind the base blade. |
| US09039365B2 |
Rotor, a steam turbine and a method for producing a rotor
A rotor, a steam turbine having a rotor, and a method of producing a rotor are disclosed. The rotor disclosed includes a shaft high pressure section. The high pressure section includes a first high pressure section, a second high pressure section, the second high pressure section being joined to the first pressure section, and a third high pressure section, the third high pressure section being joined to the second high pressure section. At least a portion of the second high pressure section is formed of a high-chromium alloy steel comprising 0.1-1.2 wt % of Mn, up to 1.5 wt % of Ni, 8.0-15.0 wt % of Cr, up to 4.0 wt % of Co, 0.5-3.0 wt % of Mo, 0.05-1.0 wt % of V, 0.02-0.5 wt % of Nb, 0.005-0.15 wt % of N, up to 0.04 wt % of B, up to 3.0 wt % of W, and balance Fe and incidental impurities. |
| US09039362B2 |
Impeller and centrifugal fan using the same
An impeller includes: a main plate; a shroud; and a plurality of blades provided between the main plate and the shroud and arranged circumferentially; wherein the impeller is configured to rotated about a rotation axis; wherein the plurality of blades include a pressure surface and a negative pressure surface; and the pressure surface has a shape, in which at least three types of circular arcs are connected, as viewed from a rotation axial direction. A centrifugal fan includes the above-described impeller; and three or more pillars, wherein an interval between one adjacent pillars of the three or more pillars is different from an interval between the other adjacent pillars of the three or more pillars. |
| US09039359B2 |
Kinetic energy atom-powered engine
A device for converting the kinetic energy of molecules into useful work includes an actuator configured to move within a fluid or gas due to collisions with the molecules of the fluid or gas. The actuator has dimensions that subject it to the Brownian motion of the surrounding molecules. The actuator utilizes objects having multiple surfaces where the different surfaces result in differing coefficients of restitution. The Brownian motion of surrounding molecules produce molecular impacts with the surfaces. Each surface then experiences relative differences in transferred energy from the kinetic collisions. The sum effect of the collisions produces net velocity in a desired direction. The controlled motion can be utilized in a variety of manners to perform work, such as generating electricity or transporting materials. |
| US09039350B2 |
Impingement cooling system for use with contoured surfaces
The present application provides an impingement cooling system for use with a contoured surface. The impingement cooling system may include an impingement plenum and an impingement plate with a linear shape facing the contoured surface. The impingement surface may include a number of projected area thereon with a number of impingement holes having varying sizes and varying spacings. |
| US09039346B2 |
Rotor support thermal control system
Systems for thermally regulating portions of a steam turbine are disclosed. In one embodiment, a thermal control system for a rotor bearing support includes: a housing fluidly connected to an inlet and adapted to substantially enclose the rotor bearing support, the housing defining a first annular cavity adapted to receive a fluid from the inlet; and an outlet fluidly connected to the housing, the outlet adapted to receive the fluid from the annular cavity. |
| US09039341B2 |
System and apparatus for improved wheelchair lift
A wheelchair lift mounted on the rear of an automobile for transporting a wheelchair, scooter or other mobility device includes two or more sets of sensors. A first set of sensors is located at the distal ends of the wheelchair lift platform for use when the platform is horizontal. A 2nd set of sensors is located on the base of the wheelchair lift for use when the platform is folded vertically. The sensors alert a driver to the presence of objects in close proximity to the rear of the vehicle when driven in reverse. They switch automatically activates the base sensors when the platform is folded and the platform sensors when the platform is horizontal. |
| US09039338B2 |
Very high strength swivel anchor
A method and an anchor for supporting items on a substrate such as drywall. The anchor comprises a structure configured to carry the anchoring element in a minimal cross section configuration through an insertion hole and to effect a first expansion. The anchor further comprises an adjustable cap member configured to be moved to fixedly position the anchoring element to the non-accessible side of the substrate. The anchoring element comprises a base channel member, a top channel member, and a connector-pivoting element configured to pivotally connect the top channel member to the base channel member. The top channel member is configured to be nested with the base channel member in the minimal cross section configuration and to be pivotally rotatable via the connector pivoting element in the plane parallel to the non-accessible side of the wall, with the pivotal rotation of the top channel member providing the second expansion. |
| US09039337B2 |
Lifting member edge protector
An edge protector for insertion between a load to be lifted and a lifting member which facilitates the lifting of the load, preventing damage to either the load or the lifting member. The edge protector has a pair of flanges which extend from a radiused or curved center portion. Each flange has an inner surface and an outer surface. A portion of each respective outer surface of each flange is spaced from and is essentially parallel to the inner surface of the respective flange. |
| US09039336B2 |
Multi-blade solid carbide drill
The invention relates to a multi-blade solid carbide drill for cutting high-strength sandwich materials. The tool comprises a shaft section and an adjoining cutting part, into which a number of chip flutes that corresponds to the number of main blades is incorporated. In order to reinforce the curvature of the resulting chip, the chip flute of the drill comprises a chip flute rib in the region of the chip formation zone, said rib protruding from the chip flute surface and having a substantially wave-shaped cross-section (28), and said rib dividing the chip flute into two sections, a first chip flute section (30) forming the cutting rake and a second chip flute (32) forming the chip flute runout. |
| US09039335B2 |
Indexable, double-sided cutting insert and cutting tool including such an insert
A cutting insert includes a first surface having a first rake surface, a second surface having a second rake surface, a central axis of the insert extending between the first and second surfaces, four side surfaces extending between the first surface and the second surface, and four cutting edges. Each cutting edge has a first cutting edge component and a second cutting edge component and being associated with a respective one of the first and second surfaces and with two respective ones of the side surfaces. The first rake surface is identical to the second rake surface and the first rake surface and the second rake surface are oriented at a 90° angle to each other about the central axis of the insert. |
| US09039326B1 |
Tidal power system and methods
The present invention pertains to a new method and system for producing electricity from tidal energy. In one embodiment the system employs at least one underground region for collecting water percolating at a higher tide level and at least another underground region capable of fluid communication with the first underground region. The system is configured to release water at separate times from the underground regions to operate hydro turbines and generators to produce electricity. |
| US09039325B2 |
Liquid containment system for use with load-supporting surfaces
System for containing liquid introduced onto a reusable load-supporting surface includes a plurality of interconnectable berm members configured to releasably sealingly engage the load-supporting surface to prevent leakage of liquid from the load-supporting surface around its perimeter. |
| US09039317B2 |
Connecting arrangement between a plastic component and another structural element
A connecting arrangement is provided between a plastic component with at least two mutually adjacent and at least approximately parallel walls and another structural element, having at least one force-transmission element which is adhesively bonded to the plastic component via an adhesive bond on the plastic component in frusto-conical or spherical-segment-shaped depressions in the mutually adjacent walls of the plastic component. The force-transmission element has a carrying structure for the other structural element. With the exception of a possibly provided coating, the force-transmission element is composed only of metallic material and has a plate which is adapted to the depression in the outer wall of the plastic component, which outer wall is adjacent to the other structural element. The edge of the plate rests with interposition on the outer wall in the surrounding region of the depression, wherein the plate is connected via a web to an end section of the force-transmission element, which end section is adapted to the depression in the other inner wall of the plastic component. The depression is configured in the outer wall without a bottom to such an extent that the end section of the force-transmission element can be inserted through the outer wall into the recess of the inner wall. |
| US09039316B2 |
Writing instrument having a protective element for the retractable tip
A writing instrument includes a body extending between a rear end and a front end of the body which has an opening, the body defining an inner volume; a writing member mounted inside the body and including a tip which protrudes from the front of the body; a protective element including a guide portion sliding along the body and a protective end which extends the guide portion and has an opening to allow the tip to pass through, the protective element being movable between a tip protection position and a retracted position for writing; an elastic return element coupled with the guide portion in order to bias the protective element towards the protection position; and a system for locking the retracted position. |
| US09039313B2 |
Image forming device with cutter and door locking mechanism
A sheet processing device includes a cutter including a movable unit moving toward or away from a predetermined position and cutting a sheet held in the predetermined position, a door provided to a housing having an opening, the door opening and closing the opening for an operation for the cutter. The sheet processing device further includes the housing holding the cutter, a locking member locking and unlocking the door closing the opening and a locking mechanism mechanically connecting the movable unit to the locking member and causing the locking member to lock or unlock the door depending on a position of the movable unit relative to the predetermined position. |
| US09039312B2 |
Printer with pair of tape roll guide members having a recessed part for housing a pressing roller
This disclosure discloses a printer comprising a roll storage part, a feeder, a printing head, a pair of guide members, a guide driving mechanism, a cover, a pressing roller, and a recessed part. The printing head is configured to perform desired printing on the print-receiving tape fed by a feeder. The pair of guide members are configured to determine a width-direction position of the print-receiving tape while sandwiching the stored roll. The guide driving mechanism is configured to make the pair of guide members move close to and away from each other by advancing and retreating in tandem in a width direction of the roll. The pressing roller is configured to contact the print-receiving tape near a feed-out position. The recessed part is configured to house at least a part of the pressing roller, provided to each position of the pair of guide members. |
| US09039309B2 |
Exchangeable lens and camera body
An exchangeable lens includes: a mount unit at which a camera body is detachably engaged; a plurality of drive target members, conditions of which change as a drive force is applied thereto; an initialization unit that executes initialization processing for each of the plurality of drive target members; an initialization status transmission unit that transmits initialization statuses, each indicating a status of the initialization processing executed for one of the drive target members, to the camera body via a first transmission path over predetermined first cycles; and a drive condition transmission unit that transmits a drive condition of at least one drive target member among the plurality of drive target members to the camera body via a second transmission path different from the first transmission path over predetermined second cycles different from the predetermined first cycles. |
| US09039308B2 |
Focal plane shutter and optical device
A focal plane shutter includes: first, second, and third boards respectively including openings through which light enters an image pickup element from an object side, and arranged in this order from the object side toward the image pickup element side; a blade arranged between the first and second boards and capable of opening and closing the openings; and a holding member arranged between the second and third boards, not coupled to the blade, and holding the second board from the image pickup element side. |
| US09039304B2 |
Combined optical and electrical interface
A connection port provides electrical and/or optical interface capability. The combined electrical and optical interface port may include an optical communication light engine within the connection port itself. The connection port includes a connector housing, an electrical interface assembly, and an optical interface assembly incorporated together. One implementation of the optical communication light engine includes a laser diode to generate optical signals, a photo diode to receive optical signals, and an optical integrated circuit (IC) to control optical interface. |
| US09039301B2 |
Optical transceiver having enhanced EMI tolerance
An optical transceiver that attenuates the EMI radiation leaked therefrom is disclosed. The optical transceiver includes a top cover and the bottom base to form a cavity into which a TOSA, a ROSA, and a circuit are set. At least one of the top cover and the bottom base provides a combed structure in a rear portion of the optical transceiver, where the combed structure has a plurality of T-shaped fins to attenuate the EMI radiation. |
| US09039300B2 |
Optical transceiver with finger tightly fastened to housing
An optical transceiver easily set within the cage of the host system. The optical transceiver of an embodiment provides a finger surrounding the housing of the optical transceiver. The finger has an rear edge, whose tip is bent downward so as to be received in the first groove of the housing, extending diagonally to the brim of the cage; and a reinforced portion with a U-shaped cross section tightly set within the second groove of the housing. |
| US09039297B2 |
Fixing device for optical fiber detection
An optical fiber fixing device includes a base, first fixing block and a second fixing block. The base includes an upper surface has a receiving groove and a groove which is connected with the receiving groove. The receiving groove receives an optical fiber connector, the optical fiber connector receives a plurality of optical fibers, and two ends of the optical fibers separately protrude out of the optical fiber connector. The groove has an optical detecting device, the detecting device defines a plurality of light apertures. The first fixing block is set on the upper surface, which is configured to fix the optical fiber connector into the receiving groove. The second fixing block is received in the groove, in order to fix the detecting device in the groove, the plurality of light apertures are aligned with the plurality of optical fibers. |
| US09039296B2 |
Fiber optic connector structure
A fiber optic connector structure contains a base, a covering member, and a fitting sleeve. The base includes a holding face, two contacting portions, and at least one slot. A respective one of the at least one slot has an opening and has a bottom portion. The bottom portion of the respective one of the at least one slot has at least one notch, and a respective one of the at least one notch has a first inserting segment and a second inserting segment. The covering member includes two resilient extensions corresponding to the two contacting portions and a sliding block sliding from the opening to the bottom portion. The fitting sleeve is fitted on the base and the covering member, and provides a force on the sliding block, so that the sliding block retains the fiber stub and the field fiber. |
| US09039292B1 |
Optical fiber connector
An optical fiber connector includes a first optical-electric coupling element, a second optical-electric coupling element and an elastic location cap. The first optical-electric coupling element includes a location post. The second optical-electric coupling element defines a location hole. The elastic location cap defines a receiving hole. A length of the location post is greater than a length of the location hole. The location post is inserted into the location post to assemble the first optical-electric coupling element to the second optical-electric coupling element, with an exposed portion of the location post exposing out of the location hole. The elastic location cap caps the location post with the exposed portion received in the receiving hole. |
| US09039288B2 |
Tapered roller bearing resin cage and tapered roller bearing
There is provided a resin cage of a tapered roller bearing. The cage includes a small diameter annular portion, a large diameter annular portion, and a plurality of bar portions arranged at intervals in a circumferential direction to connect the annular portions. The bar portion has a pair of circumferentially-directed side surfaces, each having a roller guide surface, and an inner-side inner peripheral surface, a circumferential width of which is smaller on a side of the large diameter annular portion than on a side of the small diameter annular portion, and has a roller retaining region in which a radially outer side pocket width and a radially inner side pocket width between the opposed circumferentially-directed side surfaces of the adjacent bar portions are smaller than a diameter of the roller. |
| US09039277B2 |
Temperature sensor, manufacturing process and corresponding method of assembly
The invention relates to a temperature sensor comprising: a temperature-sensitive element (3); and a peripheral casing (7) accommodating the temperature-sensitive element (3) and having a closed end (9), the peripheral casing (7) being able to be inserted into a corresponding cavity (11), characterized in that the closed end (9) of the peripheral casing (7) has a peripheral portion (21) revealing, butted against the closed end, a flexible assembly stop (23) after said peripheral portion (21), said stop (23) being able to deform towards the peripheral portion (21) by shape cooperation with the bottom (15) of the corresponding cavity (11). The subject of the invention is also a process for manufacturing a temperature sensor as described above and a method of assembling said sensor. |
| US09039275B2 |
Methods of preventing freezing of relays in electrical components
Disclosed herein are methods of preventing freezing of relays in electrical components operated in specific atmospheric conditions. One such method described herein comprises monitoring a temperature of a relay with a thermocouple located on a contact of the relay while monitoring ambient temperature within the relay. Operation of the electrical component is simulated in a sub-zero temperature and high humidity condition. A freeze potential of the relay is determined by plotting a temperature cross-over curve, wherein both the ambient temperature and the contact temperature are plotted during the operation and cool down period. If the high freeze potential is determined, one or both of the relay and the electrical component are modified with a modification configured to decrease the high freeze potential. |
| US09039271B2 |
Interface and fabrication method for lighting and other electrical devices
Interfaces for electrical (e.g., lighting) devices involve use of electrically conductive edge contacts arranged on or protruding from edges of printed circuit boards (PCBs) that provide or facilitate electrical connections to first and second externally accessible electrical contacts, such as may include threaded and foot contacts of a lighting device including a screw-shaped male base. First and/or second edge contacts of a PCB may protrude through first and second openings in a housing to form first and second externally accessible contact, or directly engage first and second externally accessible contact elements associated with (e.g., retained by) the housing. A contact element retained by a housing may define a slot in the interior of the housing to directly engage an edge contact of the PCB. Electric power is supplied to the PCB via edge contacts without need for intervening wires or soldered connections. |
| US09039267B2 |
Aluminum extrusion heat sink structure and corresponding backlight module
The present invention relates to an aluminum extrusion heat sink structure and a corresponding backlight module. The aluminum extrusion heat sink structure comprises a light source connecting portion, a back plate connecting portion and a light guide plate support portion. The manufacture cost of the aluminum extrusion heat sink structure is lower, and the heat dissipation effect is better, so as to solve the technology problem that the volume of a traditional aluminum extrusion heat sink structure is larger caused the cost of the aluminum extrusion heat sink structure and the corresponding backlight module is higher. |
| US09039265B2 |
Display module
A display module has a display panel and a backlight module disposed on one side of the display panel. The backlight module includes a heat sink, a light bar, a light guide plate, a first reflective sheet, and a second reflective sheet. The light bar abuts against one side of the heat sink. The first reflective sheet is disposed adjacent to a bottom surface of the light guide plate, and the second reflective sheet is disposed adjacent to an edge of a light-emitting surface of the light guide plate. The second reflective sheet has a first part and a second part forming an included angle with the first part, the first part is attached to the heat sink or the light bar, and the second part overlaps a part of the light-emitting surface of the light guide plate. |
| US09039264B2 |
Ornament with enclosed water-proof battery capsule
A decorative ornament capable of being completely illuminated about its surface including a hollow shell comprising a water-proof battery capsule is described. When the ornament is on display, the battery capsule is stored in a hollow shell of the ornament, in a manner such that only the removable lid of the battery capsule is visibly exposed. A battery pack, comprising one or more batteries, provides the power to illuminate the ornament and is enclosed within the battery capsule. The ornament surface is made using a water-resistant material. The battery capsule is made of a similar water-proof material and is sealed so as to prevent the battery pack from malfunctioning during various weather conditions. The battery pack's configuration enables the ornament to comprise a plurality of lighting modes, including full-on, blinking-on, and timer. The ornament can be displayed indoors or outdoors, and may be used year after year. |
| US09039261B2 |
Vehicular lamp
The present disclosure provides a vehicular lamp including a low-beam lamp and a daytime running lamp. The low-beam lamp includes a low-beam LED, a low-beam reflector, and a projection lens. The daytime running lamp includes a DRL LED, and a DRL reflector. The DRL LED is disposed at the rear side of the low-beam reflector to emit a light in a direction which intersects with the optical axis of the vehicular lamp. The DRL reflector includes an extension area that extends to at least the outer side of the projection lens when viewed from the front, and reflects the light from the DRL LED in the extension area to emit the light to the front side of the lamp through the outer side of the projection lens. |
| US09039258B2 |
Headlight support structure for saddle type vehicle
A saddle type vehicle provided with a headlight stay for permitting a harness laying operation to be easily carried out. A motorcycle is provided with the headlight stay which is supported on a head pipe and extends toward the vehicle front side from the head pipe. A headlight unit is attached to the headlight stay. The headlight stay includes a first stay extending forward from the head pipe, in a side view of the vehicle and a second stay which is supported in a cantilever manner by a front portion of the first stay and extends rearwardly and upwardly. The headlight unit is partly disposed on the front side of the second stay and is disposed so as to overlap with the first stay. |
| US09039255B2 |
Light source device, projector, and light source device fabrication method
A light source device which can prevent the removal of light source elements of a light source device within a projector casing, a projector and a light source fabrication method are provided. An excitation light shining device 70 has a lens holding structure 79 and a light source holding structure 80 which are integrated together with excitation light sources held therebetween. The lens holding structure 79 has through holes 79f which first screw members 84 penetrate, and the light source holding structure 80 has screw holes 80h and screw holes 80k communicating with the screw holes 80h substantially at right angles. With the first screw members 84 penetrating the through holes 79f to be screwed into the screw holes 80h, screw thread portions of the first screw members 84 are pressed to be deformed plastically by distal end portions of the second screw members 85. |
| US09039252B2 |
Lens for asymmetrical light beam generation
The invention relates to an optical device for imparting an asymmetrical light beam. The optical device comprises a lens (10) having an exit diopter (12) having an exit surface consisting of a convex surface (16) defining a curved rear portion (18) having a first curvature and a curved front portion (19) having a second curvature different from the first curvature. Furthermore the lens (10) comprises an entry diopter (11) including at least one concave lodging (13) for lodging at least one light source, the surface of the concave lodging (13) facing at least partly the curved rear portion (18). |
| US09039251B2 |
Light fixtures and multi-plane light modifying elements
Certain example implementations of the disclosed technology include a light emitting device. The light emitting device may include an enclosure with four sides and a top edge surface associated with each of the four sides. The enclosure may be capable of mounting on a grid frame of a suspended ceiling such that a portion of the top edge surfaces contacts a portion of the grid frame. The light emitting device may further include a light modifying element characterized by a substrate with four or more edges, a back surface disposed on the top edge surface of each of the four sides of the enclosure, and a front surface. In certain example embodiments the substrate may further comprise two or more edge trusses. A periphery of the light-emitting front surface may be capable of contacting the grid frame after the light emitting device is mounted to the grid frame. |
| US09039244B2 |
Illumination apparatus confining light by total internal reflection and methods of forming the same
In various embodiments, an illumination apparatus includes an air gap between a sub-assembly and a waveguide attached thereto at a plurality of discrete attachment points, as well as a bare-die light-emitting diode encapsulated by the waveguide. |
| US09039243B2 |
Lighting apparatus
Disclosed is a lighting apparatus which may include a heat sink, a light emitting device including a substrate mounted on the heat sink and LEDs arranged on the substrate, a bulb surrounding the light emitting device, an electronic module received within the heat sink to supply power to the light emitting device, a case provided to surround the electronic module, the case being configured to be inserted into the heat sink, a communication module separably coupled to the electronic module, and a power socket electrically connected to the electronic module, the power socket being mounted to the case. The communication module may include a housing, a circuit board provided in the housing. The circuit board may be electrically connected to the electronic module, and a wireless communication device may be provided on the circuit board. |
| US09039241B2 |
LED light fixture
An LED light fixture a housing, a heat sink secured with respect to the housing, the heat sink has a base with front and back surfaces, and an LED arrangement mounted at the front surface of the heat sink The back surface of the heat sink is open to water/air flow thereover. The LED light fixture also includes at least one closed channel extending along the base and spaced therefrom for receiving wire connections for the LED arrangement. The at least one closed channel receives wiring extending to/from the second LED module. The LED arrangement may include at least first and second LED modules, the first LED module being proximal to the housing with the at least one closed channel receiving wiring extending to/from the second LED module. The first and second LED modules may be in end-to-end relationship to one another such that the second LED module is distal from the housing. |
| US09039235B2 |
Laser line generating device
A laser line generating device includes a conical prism, a light-emitting unit for projecting light onto the conical prism, a housing for receiving the light-emitting unit and permitting the light emitted by the light-emitting unit to pass there through, and translucent columns disposed between the housing and the conical prism for connecting the housing and the conical prism, wherein the apex of the conical prism faces towards the light-emitting unit. |
| US09039231B1 |
Hybrid light tower system
A hybrid light tower provides a way to connect a light tower to one of a shore power connection, such as 120V AC or a generator supported by a housing on an axle through a relay. Some embodiments also may have a solar panel and/or batteries for providing electrical power to LED lights of the light tower which require significantly less electrical power than prior art designs. Some embodiments may not have generators, but many will. |
| US09039229B2 |
LED lamp fixture
An LED lamp fixture is provided with a frame; a plurality of bulb sockets mounted on the frame; and a plurality of LED lights each mounted between the bulb socket and a predetermined position of the frame opposite to the bulb socket. Each LED lights includes a front recess and two side grooves. Each bulb socket includes a housing releasably fastened in the recess, two flexible side wings on both sides of the housing respectively, and a spring activated button for extending or retracting the side wings so that the side wings are releasably disposed in the side grooves. |
| US09039227B2 |
Rechargeable flameless candle systems and methods
According to an embodiment of the present invention, a recharging device includes a recharging port that receives a flameless candle and recharges a battery in the candle. The recharging device includes a first stacking structure that has a top portion and a bottom portion. There is a top stacking contact on the top portion. An electrical power bus is connected with the top stacking contact. The electrical power bus is also configured to provide electrical power to the flameless candle through the recharging port. The top portion of the first stacking structure is configured to mate with a bottom portion of a first stacking structure of another recharging device. |
| US09039226B2 |
Desk organizer and multi-compartment storage unit
An annular shaped two tier desk organizer and multi-compartment storage unit or device. The organizer/storage unit includes a base assembly having a central vertical axis, a stationary lower member and a rotatable upper member superposed or superimposed on the lower member. The lower member includes a speaker, an electric pencil sharpener, an electric stapler and a USB port for charging a cell phone, calculator or the like. A small computer is also disposed in the lower member and is connected to the Internet. |
| US09039224B2 |
Head-mounted pointing device
A head-mounted pointing device is disclosed, and can be used for example for surgical training. The pointing device includes a frame or harness assembly made from a circumferential headband and a cross strap that extends over the user's (i.e. trainer's) head. A laser pointer is mounted on one side of the circumferential headband, and a battery pack is provided to power the laser pointer. An user-operated pneumatically controlled switch is used to toggle the laser pointer. By moving the user's head and by activating the switch to engage the laser pointer, the trainer can point to a given target, such as material to be surgically excised from the patient during a surgical procedure. |
| US09039220B2 |
Light source device and display device
A light source device includes a circuit board having a light-emitting element mounted on a one surface; a support body positioned on the other surface side of the circuit board for supporting the circuit board; a rivet having a head portion, which is positioned on a side of the one surface of the circuit board and cannot be inserted into a first through hole provided on the circuit board and the support body, and a shaft portion having a tip side stopped and held on the support body in a penetration via the first through hole; and a reflection sheet arranged on the one surface of the circuit board for reflecting light. The light source device provides a second through hole having a diameter larger or smaller than the diameter of the head portion at the position corresponding to the head portion on the reflection sheet. |
| US09039217B2 |
Lighting device
A lighting device may be provided that includes: a light emitting device; and an optical exciter which is disposed over the light emitting device and emits light excited by the light emitted from the light emitting device, wherein the optical exciter includes at least one of a yellow fluorescent material, a green fluorescent material and a red fluorescent material, wherein the optical exciter moves over the light emitting device, and wherein a color temperature of the light emitted from the optical exciter varies according to the movement of the optical exciter. |
| US09039214B2 |
Vehicle outside rearview mirror device
In a vehicle outside rearview mirror device including a mirror housing capable of tilting with respect to a vehicle body, the vehicle outside rearview mirror device includes a base fixed to the vehicle body; a shaft fixed to the base; and the mirror housing mounted to the shaft so as to be capable of tilting, wherein a wall that reduces a flow rate of a wind passing through a gap between the base and the mirror housing is provided to the shaft. |
| US09039213B2 |
Light concentration apparatus, systems and methods
An optical device is disclosed including: a non-imaging secondary concentrator having an entry aperture and an exit aperture, and configured to receive light focused by a primary focusing element from a source onto the entry aperture. The non-imaging secondary concentrator includes: a first portion proximal the entry aperture; and a second portion proximal the exit aperture which is not rotationally symmetric about an optic axis. The optical device further comprises a means for homogenizing the light focused onto the entry aperture of the secondary concentrator. |
| US09039208B2 |
Manually adjustable ruggedized focus mechanism
The invention provides, in some aspects, devices for image acquisition that use seals between concentrically disposed portions of an enclosure and an optics assembly in order to protect image acquisition components from the surrounding environment while providing adequate friction for both adjusting and locking focus. Such devices can include an image capture medium that is disposed within an enclosure and an optics assembly that is also disposed within that enclosure. The optics assembly, which includes at least a lens, can have a cylindrical outer diameter along at least a portion of its length that is received within the enclosure along a length that has a corresponding cylindrical inner diameter. A first seal is disposed between, and in contact with, the optics assembly and the enclosure. That seal permits rotation of the optics assembly for purposes of focusing the lens, while preventing contamination from the environment from entering into the enclosure. |
| US09039206B2 |
Projection display apparatus to store data using capacitor charges
A projection display apparatus may include a light source, a power supply unit, a detecting unit, a nonvolatile memory, a capacitor, and a control unit. The power supply unit supplies power from an external power supply to the light source power derived from the received power. The detecting unit detects a cut-off state in which no or no sufficient power is being received by the power supply unit. The capacitor accumulates charges in response to power being received. Following detection of the cut-off state and even after turning off the light source, the control unit is operable to carry out a data storage operation in which at least part of the data is stored in the nonvolatile memory, wherein power to carry out the data storage operation is obtained from the charges previously accumulated by the capacitor. |
| US09039204B2 |
Projector having a projector lens part and a cover part
A thin type projector is disclosed. The thin type projector according to present invention includes a panel part slidingly mounted at the front surface of the housing to open and close the projection lens part selectively. The thin type projector may further include a speaker part installed at the front surface of a housing, the speaker part converting an audio input signal into sound. When the panel part is separated, a lamp as a light source is exposed to the front of the housing. As a result, a user can replace the lamp with a new one conveniently. |
| US09039202B2 |
Multi-view display apparatus
A multi-view display apparatus includes a screen, a projection lens, two spatial light modulators, light sources, an optical guidance system and a combining prism. The light sources can radiate light in turn. When one of the light sources radiate light, the optical guiding system can divide the light into two portions and guide the two portions of the light to the spatial light modulators respectively, and the spatial light modulators can reflect the light. The combining prism can transmit light that is reflected from the spatial light modulators to the projection lens, where the projection lens is aligned with the screen in an optical path so that the screen can receive the light that is projected from the projection lens. |
| US09039201B2 |
Display element, display device, and projection display device
The present invention includes light valve section (10) having a plurality of shutter mechanisms (14) that switch between a transmitting state and a shading state of light emitted from light emitting element (25); and substrate (16) through which light that exits plurality of shutter mechanisms (14) is transmitted. The display element also has plasmon coupling section (11) that causes plasmon coupling to occur with light that exits the light valve section (10). Plasmon coupling section (11) includes carrier generation layer (17) that generates carriers with incident light that exits light valve section (10), plasmon excitation layer (19) that has a higher plasma frequency than the frequency of light that is generated in carrier generation layer (17) excited with the light emitted from light emitting element (25), and wave number vector conversion layer (22) that converts the light or surface plasmons generated in plasmon excitation layer (19) into light having a predetermined exit angle. Plasmon excitation layer (19) is sandwiched between first dielectric constant layer (18) and second dielectric constant layer (22). |
| US09039200B2 |
Projector and control method for projector
A projector which modulates light emitted from a light source and projects the light, the projector including: an image acquiring unit for acquiring an image from an image source; a modulating unit for modulating the light emitted from the light sources, based on the image acquired by the image acquiring unit; a light adjustment mechanism for reducing an amount of light incident on the modulating unit from the light source; and a light adjustment control unit for performing light adjustment control by the light adjustment mechanism, based on the image acquired by the image acquiring unit; wherein the light adjustment control unit stops execution of the light adjustment control when at least one of an operating state of the projector and a state of the image acquired by the image acquiring unit meets a predetermined condition. |
| US09039198B2 |
Projection apparatus having improved projection properties, and method and procedure, respectively, for projecting an image
In a method for projecting an image onto a projection area (10) by at least one first (110) and second (210) beam, in order to create an improved image on the projection area, the deviation of the projection of the first and second beam on the projection area is determined, and the intensity of the first and/or second beam is varied over time according to the previously determined deviations. |
| US09039197B2 |
Projecting apparatus having light source axis and light valve surface parallel to the same plane
A projecting apparatus is disposed within a space defined with first, second and third imaginary planes perpendicular to one another and includes a light source, a prism, a reflecting mirror, and a reflective light valve. The light source emits a light beam propagating along a first optical path parallel with the first and second imaginary planes. The prism is disposed in the first optical path, and refracts the light beam to propagate along a second optical path. The reflecting mirror is disposed in the second optical path, and reflects the light beam to propagate along a third optical path. The reflective light valve is disposed in the third optical path, and has an active plane parallel with the second imaginary plane. Therefore, the light source can be placed horizontally with respect to the reflective light valve to reduce the space occupied by the light source. |
| US09039194B2 |
Method and device for controlling a video projector in a video projection system comprising multiple video projectors
Controlling at least one video projector of a video projection system comprising multiple video projectors having a modifiable focal length and adapted to project sub-images. After determining a first calibration parameter associated with a first predetermined focal length of the video projectors, a second calibration parameter corresponding to a second predetermined focal length of the video projectors is computed, the second calibration parameter computed as a function of the first calibration parameter and the second predetermined focal length different from the first one. A display parameter is computed for a video projector, the display parameter being computed as a function of second calibration parameter, and a sub-image to be projected by the video projector is calculated according to the computed display parameter. Necessary display parameters are determined during an initial calibration step and used during a projection session whenever the user issues an “optical zoom” command, without repeating the calibration. |
| US09039190B2 |
Projector having integrator with greater illuminance in offset direction of projection lens and modulator
A projector including a light source unit, a lens integrator system, a light modulator having an image formation region where light from the lens integrator system is modulated in accordance with image information, and a projection system that projects light from the light modulator, wherein the projection system is so disposed that the optical axis of the light incident on the projection system is shifted from the optical axis of the projection system in a predetermined direction when the projection system is viewed in the direction in which the light travels toward the projection system, and the lens integrator system is so configured that illuminance of the light on a first side corresponding to the predetermined direction in the image formation region is higher than illuminance of the light on a second side that is opposite the first side. |
| US09039189B2 |
Projection apparatus
A projection apparatus includes a light source, a light valve, a light uniforming device, and a lens module. The light source provides an illumination beam. The light valve on a transmission path of the illumination beam converts the illumination beam into an image beam. The light valve has an active surface with a rectangular shape. The light uniforming device is between the light source and the light value. The lens module is between the light uniforming device and the light value. A refractive power of the lens module along a first direction is different from a refractive power of the lens module along a second direction. An f-number of the illumination beam along a direction parallel to a long side of the active surface of the light valve is greater than an f-number thereof along a direction parallel to a short side of the active surface of the light valve. |
| US09039186B2 |
Projector having tilted transmissive substrate and multicolor pixel modulator
A projector includes: a light source device; a light modulation device adapted to modulate a light beam emitted from the light source device; a light transmissive substrate adapted to transmit the light beam modulated by the light modulation device; and a projection optical device adapted to project the light beam transmitted through the light transmissive substrate, wherein the light modulation device includes a first light modulation unit having a plurality of pixels arranged, the pixels having colors different from each other, and the light transmissive substrate is disposed so as to be tilted with respect to an imaginary plane perpendicular to a light axis of the light beam modulated by the first light modulation unit. |
| US09039185B2 |
LCOS projection system having beam recycling module with total internal reflecting prism
A LCOS projection system includes an illumination device, a LCOS microdisplay element, a polarization beam splitter, an optical projection lens, and a beam recycling module. A first portion of the lighting beams provided by the illumination device are transmissible through the polarization beam splitter and directed to the LCOS microdisplay element. A second portion of the lighting beams provided by the illumination device and from the polarization beam splitter are introduced into the beam recycling module. By the beam recycling module, a polarization state of the second portion of the lighting beams is converted. Consequently, the second portion of the lighting beams in the converted polarization state can also be projected onto the LCOS microdisplay element. The beam recycling module includes a total internal reflection prism, which is arranged in a transmission path of the first portion and the second portion of the lighting beams. |
| US09039181B2 |
Large diopter range real time sequential wavefront sensor
Example embodiments of a large dynamic range sequential wavefront sensor for vision correction or assessment procedures are disclosed. An example embodiment includes first and second optically coupled 4F relays and a variable focus lens disposed substantially at the image plane of the first 4F relay and the object plane of the second 4F relay. |
| US09039177B2 |
Eye image and video capture system and associated methods
An eye image and video capture system (100) that includes at least one user interface from which a user may select one of a plurality of regions of an eye to image, each of the plurality of regions preferably having at least one correlated preset value for the light control components of the optics assembly and/or at least one correlated preset value for controlling the camera. A method associated with the eye image and video capture system. A slit lamp data detection system in which the slit lamp (200) preferably has a movable component that preferably has a direct relation to desired data. The slit lamp data detection system may be a slit lamp magnification data detection system for detecting magnification data. The slit lamp data detection system may be a slit lamp position data detection system for detecting position data that indicates which eye is being examined. |
| US09039171B2 |
Aerated contact lens assembly
A contact lens assembly includes a proximal layer formed from a gas-permeable material, a distal layer with an optical element, an air cavity disposed between the proximal layer and the distal layer, wherein oxygen concentration across the air cavity is substantially uniform, and an gas transport region surrounding the air cavity for communicating gas between the air cavity and atmosphere. The contact lens assembly may further include a plurality of fins disposed within the air cavity where the plurality of fins has openings therethrough. One or both of the upper and lower surfaces of the air cavity may have an anti-reflection coating formed thereon. |
| US09039168B1 |
Expandable eyewear with flexible band
The present eyewear includes a pair of lenses, a pair of releasable connectors connected to respective inner ends of the lenses, temples pivotally connected to respective outer ends of the lenses and a rigid strap connected between the rear ends of the temples. The strap is further characterized as having parallel legs connected to the rear ends of the temples, transition segments having a first shape extending from the substantially parallel legs to an arc-shaped base which extends along the back of the user's head when worn The transition segments are bendable by a user causing them to change from their first shape to a second shape and to maintain the second shape unless bent further by the user. |
| US09039167B2 |
Glasses
The present invention has a technical object to provide glasses which prevent invasion of pollen, can be continuously worn without any discomfort in wearing, and can effectively block ultraviolet ray. The present invention achieves the technical object by glasses including inwardly projecting visors in rims and end pieces of a frame, and glasses in which lenses, a frame, and inwardly projecting visors formed in the frame are formed of synthetic resin containing an ultraviolet absorbing agent or an ultraviolet scattering agent. |
| US09039155B2 |
Ink mixing system
An ink system of an ink jet printer includes a fluid tank. The fluid tank includes a generally conically shaped side wall, the side wall sloping inwardly from a top portion to a bottom portion. A bottom surface is disposed adjacent the bottom portion of the side wall. A first fluid conduit is disposed in the fluid tank and includes an opening adjacent to and above the bottom surface of the fluid tank. A second fluid conduit is disposed in the fluid tank and includes an opening at a location above the opening of the first fluid conduit. A pump is in fluid communication with the first fluid conduit and the second fluid conduit. An ink supply line is in fluid communication with the pump. A print head is in fluid communication with the ink supply line. |
| US09039144B2 |
Base, full-line printhead, and printing apparatus
A full-line printhead includes a base in which a plurality of substrates each including arrayed print elements are arranged in the arrayed direction has the following arrangement. The base includes a terminal for inputting a first differential signal, a first pair of lines for transferring the first differential signal from the terminal to the substrates, a terminal for inputting a second differential signal, and a second pair of lines for transferring the second differential signal from the terminal to the substrates. Each substrate includes a first amplifier for amplifying the first differential signal transferred via the first pair of lines, and a second amplifier for amplifying the second differential signal transferred via the second pair of lines. Control is performed to change the gain of the first amplifier based on a control signal from outside. |
| US09039143B2 |
Ink jet recording head and method for manufacturing the same
An ink jet recording head includes a substrate having a plurality of discharge energy generation elements and having an ink supply port, a protective film provided on the substrate and configured to protect wiring connected to the discharge energy generation elements, and an ink discharge port forming member, wherein the protective film has a protruding portion, wherein the ink discharge port forming member has a beam-like protrusion, wherein the beam-like protrusion has a reinforcing rib, and wherein a separation film containing gold is formed at a portion where the protruding portion and the reinforcing rib are held in close contact with each other. |
| US09039142B2 |
Ink-jet printing module
An ink-jet printing module is used for a page-width array ink-jet printer. The ink jet printing module includes a page-width array platen and a plurality of ink-jet cartridges. The page-width array platen has a plurality of receiving cavities arranged as an array. Each of the ink-jet cartridges is detachably and independently embedded into one of the receiving cavities, and includes a body for storing ink, an ink-jet chip to be driven for ejecting the ink, a plurality of nozzles disposed on the ink-jet chip, and a control node for receiving signal to drive the ink-jet chip. The ink-jet chip is disposed on a bottom of the page-width array platen and is driven to eject the ink through the nozzles onto a printing medium. |
| US09039130B2 |
Ink composition and method for ink jet recording
An ink composition for ink jet recording contains a polymer particle that has a core portion and a shell portion on a surface of the core portion. The core portion has a glass transition temperature of 0° C. or less, and the shell portion has a glass transition temperature of 20° C. or more. The difference between the glass transition temperature of the core portion and that of the shell portion is 30° C. or more. |
| US09039127B2 |
Driver apparatus, image forming apparatus, and method of controlling driver apparatus
A driver apparatus includes a drive unit to move a moveable unit along a given path using a drive force; a movement detector to detect movement of the moveable unit; a drive control unit to control the drive unit using a given output for a given time to drive the moveable unit; a determination unit to determine whether the movement detector detects a movement of the moveable unit for a given distance or more in a driving direction when the moveable unit is driven under a control of the drive control unit; and an abnormality detector to determine occurrence of abnormal when the determination unit determines that the moveable unit does not move the given distance or more. |
| US09039125B2 |
Multiple layer structures for void control in ink jet printers
Approaches to remove bubbles from ink in an ink jet printer are described. Bubble removal may be implemented using a membrane disposed along an ink flow path. The membrane includes first and second component membranes having first and second coefficients of thermal expansion. The membrane is configured to, in response to a change in ink temperature, mechanically displace as a function of temperature due to a difference in the thermal coefficients of expansion of the first and second component membranes. The mechanical displacement of the membrane causes a volumetric change in a portion of the ink flow path. |
| US09039121B2 |
Printing device and printing method
A printing device includes a required ink amount acquisition part, an ejectable amount acquisition part, and a division printing control part. The required ink amount acquisition part is configured to determine a required ink amount based on print data of a bandwidth over which ink is ejected by driving an ink head in a main scanning direction. The ejectable amount acquisition part is configured to determine an ejectable amount based on a residual amount in an ink cartridge. The division printing control part is configured to determine whether a printing for the bandwidth is performed by one time of a main scanning operation, or the printing is performed by dividing into multiple main scanning operations based on the required ink amount and the ejectable amount, and to perform the printing in accordance with the determination. |
| US09039119B2 |
Method of detecting a pattern position in an image forming apparatus which reads a test pattern formed onto a recording medium to adjust an ejection timing of liquid droplets, image forming apparatus and image forming system
An image forming apparatus which reads a test pattern formed onto a recording medium to adjust an ejection timing of liquid droplets is disclosed. The apparatus includes a reading unit; a pattern data storage unit; an image forming unit; a relative movement unit; an intensity data obtaining unit which obtains intensity data on a reflected light which is received by a light receiving unit from a scanning position of a light while the light moves over the test pattern; and a position detecting unit which applies a line position determining operation on the intensity data and detects a line position. |
| US09039110B2 |
Under mount roller for crisper system
A refrigerator is provided that includes a crisper system having one or more moveable and removable drawers. The drawers include rollers extending downwardly and outwardly from the drawers to provide maximum storage volume. The rollers are configured to work with channels formed in a support system, which may be integrally formed with a bottom floor of a compartment of the refrigerator. Therefore, the rollers and channels of the support system provide easy access and removability of the drawers of the crisper system. |
| US09039108B2 |
Drawer frame having a tilt adjustment
The invention relates to a drawer frame including an adjusting device for raising and lowering the drawer frame relative to a drawer pull-out guide. The adjusting device, which is arranged substantially inside the drawer frame, has an actuating element accessible from the drawer interior, in the region of a lateral inner surface of the drawer frame facing the drawer interior. |
| US09039106B2 |
Convertible furniture system base and modular applications including armchairs, tables, and storage cabinets
The present invention pertains to a modular furniture system in which a flat-foldable or easily assembled and disassembled rigid base structure composed of rectangular-cross-sectioned pieces each with specific dimensions serves variously, once assembled, as the supporting framework for a flat-foldable chair seat-and-backrest module, which configured together with the base structure serves as either an upright dining chair with armrests or as a lower and more reclined lounge chair with armrests, or alternatively as configured for supporting the connectable or foldable components of a flat planar surface module to be used for dining or to serve as a desktop, or alternatively as configured for supporting a storage cabinet module with drawers or doors. |
| US09039104B2 |
Hydraulic block for a slip-controlled vehicle brake system
A flat, box-shaped hydraulic block for the mechanical fastening and hydraulic interconnection of solenoid valves, pump elements, etc. of a slip-controlled vehicle brake system connects connections of installation spaces for the pump elements to connectors for a brake master cylinder and connections of receptacles for pressure build-up valves which run past one another via flat chambers on longitudinal sides of the hydraulic block and short blind bores. As a result, the receptacles of the pressure build-up valves are connected to the connectors for the brake master cylinder. The chambers damp pressure pulses of the pump elements of a piston pump. |
| US09039101B1 |
Aircraft hubcap structure
A dome-shaped hubcap is attached to a wheel half of an airplane wheel and tire assembly by a plurality of attachment brackets, the attachment brackets being mounted on bolts passing through preexisting openings formed in the wheel wall of the wheel half. |
| US09039100B2 |
Dual wheel axle assembly
A dual wheel axle assembly includes an axle, a hub coupled to the axle, a rotor coupled to the hub, a surface of the axle assembly inboard of the hub, and an adapter. The adapter is coupled to the rotor or the hub. The adapter has an encoder ring portion positioned at a first distance from the surface of the axle assembly, wherein the first distance is substantially equal to a second distance from a corresponding surface of a single wheel axle assembly to an encoder ring portion of the single wheel axle assembly without the adapter. |
| US09039097B2 |
Apparatus and method for remotely locking a container
An apparatus for remotely locking a container includes a vehicle having a main frame and a tipper frame hingedly connected to the main frame, at least one of the main frame and tipper frame being configured to receive and support a container thereon; an actuator assembly for pivoting the tipper frame relative the main frame between a reclined, container loading and transport position and an inclined, dumping position; a container configured for receipt, transport and dumping of material, including a box defining a rear opening, and having a door hingedly connected with the container box to swing between an open, material dumping position and a closed position covering and sealing shut the rear opening; at least one lock mechanism connected to at least one of the box and the door; a locking assembly connected to the container; and, an actuator assembly connected to the tipper frame and physically separate from the locking assembly, and when the container is juxtaposed atop the tipper frame said tipper frame is in the transport position, the actuator assembly is operable upon actuation to engage with and cause the locking assembly to engage with the at least one lock mechanism to pull the door tightly against the box and seal closed the opening. |
| US09039096B2 |
Vehicle seat
A vehicle seat includes a seat cushion, a seat back connected to the seat cushion and including a storage portion, a belt member configured to restrain an occupant while the belt member is routed from a side of the seat back to a side of the seat cushion, and a rerouter member configured to be taken out from the storage portion of the seat back and connected to the belt member to change a routing position of the belt member at a middle portion thereof. In a state where a portion of the rerouter member is stored in the storage portion, another portion of the rerouter member is exposed from the storage portion. |
| US09039093B2 |
Vehicle seat having frame member
Embodiments of the present invention include a vehicle seat having a frame member and a reinforcing member for reinforcing the frame member. The frame member has an elongated portion. The elongated portion is formed of resin and preferably has a flat-plate-like or bar-like configuration. The elongated portion includes a first portion, a front second portion and a rear second portion. The first portion may be arranged in a longitudinal manner with respect to the vehicle seat and extends vertically. The front second portion extends in the lateral direction of the vehicle seat from a front end of the first portion. The rear second portion extends in the lateral direction of the vehicle seat from a rear end of the first portion. The elongated portion is configured so that a neutral axis is positioned between the front and rear second portions. |
| US09039092B1 |
Air bag enabling car seat cover
The present disclosure describes a method of manufacture and a structure for an automobile seat cover that includes a seat cover body with an outer perimeter, a seat cover skirt with a first edge sewn with an overlock stitch to the seat cover body for a majority of the outer perimeter, and a second edge, distal from the first edge, comprising a tie element extending for a majority of the second edge around a seat opening in the seat cover. A portion of the seat cover skirt and the seat cover body corresponding to a location of at least one airbag installed in an automobile seat cover over which the seat cover is to be placed are sewn together with one of a straight stitch and a lock stitch instead of the overlock stitch. In some implementations, the thread used is a brightly colored string. |
| US09039090B2 |
Height adjustment mechanism suitable for a footring
A mechanism for vertically adjusting a component on a shaft has a collet sleeve riding on the shaft. A spiral track of the component's hub receives a radially outwardly projecting pin on the collet sleeve. The outer surface of the collet sleeve and the inner surface of the hub are tapered so that the hub can rotated one direction to advance the hub on the collet sleeve and compress the collet sleeve onto the shaft to frictionally lock the collet sleeve to the shaft. Because the hub is joined to the collet sleeve by the pin, this also locks the vertical position of the component. Conversely, the hub can be oppositely rotated to release the compression of the collet sleeve so that the collet sleeve, and therefore the vertical component, is slidable on the shaft. |
| US09039081B2 |
Wire harness for a vehicle seating assembly
A wire harness for a vehicle seating assembly includes a body portion having a plurality of engagement hooks adapted for engagement with a vehicle seat cushion pan. A latticework of interconnected lateral support members are bound by a peripheral frame. |
| US09039079B2 |
Children's tray with placement indicator
A children's tray with a placement indicator includes a tray and a groove/spot formed in the tray to indicate where an eating item (including food, utensils, or dishware) is to be placed. The tray can be mounted, removably or fixedly, to a variety of child support structures, including high chairs, booster seats and bouncers and includes a wall around the periphery intended to prevent items from falling off of the tray. The groove/spot formed in the tray may be formed from of a material having a higher coefficient of friction than the material used to form the tray. The groove/spot formed in the tray may be formed from of a material having a different color than the material used to form the tray. |
| US09039078B2 |
Zero-wall clearance linkage mechanism for a lifting recliner
A seating unit that includes a linkage mechanism adapted to move the seating unit between seat-lift, closed, extended, reclined, and seat-lift positions is provided. The linkage mechanism includes a seat-mounting plate mounted to a footrest assembly, a base plate fixedly mounted to a lift assembly, a back-mounting link rotatably coupled to the seat-mounting plate, a seat-adjustment assembly with a bellcrank, and a linear actuator for automating adjustment of the linkage mechanism. In operation, a stroke in a first phase of the linear actuator generates a force on the bellcrank that translates the seat-mounting plate rearward in a consistent angle of inclination and rotates the back-mounting link from a reclined to an upright orientation. A stroke in a second phase acts to collapse the footrest assembly. A stroke in a third phase causes the lift assembly to raise and tilt the seating unit, thereby accommodating egress and ingress of an occupant. |
| US09039076B2 |
Open roof construction for a vehicle
Open roof construction for a vehicle is provided, comprising a roof opening provided in a stationary roof part of the vehicle and movable means for opening and closing the roof opening. At least a first and second drive member are provided for cooperation with the movable means, which at least first and second drive member are movable in a direction of the vehicle by a common drive source and are spaced in said direction. At least one elongate buckling resistant member is provided extending substantially in said direction and movable between a disconnect position in which the first and second drive members of the movable means are operatively disconnected and a connect position for operatively connecting the first and second drive members of the movable means. |
| US09039075B2 |
Roof apparatus
A roof apparatus includes: panels juxtaposed in a longitudinal direction and configured to cover an opening formed in a roof of a vehicle, a first panel serving as one of the panels; downward-erected walls extending to both edge portions in a width direction of the first panel along the longitudinal direction, and extending downward; a sealing member extending along the width direction on an edge portion of a second panel facing the first panel in the longitudinal direction, the second panel serving as one of the panels, and being arranged in front of or behind the first panel, the sealing member having a sealing portion which can be in liquid-tight contact with an edge end and a lower surface of the edge portion the first panel, and a tip portion of the sealing member having notches; and panel side protruding portions disposed to protrude in the width direction where the panel side protruding portions face both of the downward-erected walls. |
| US09039074B1 |
Wheel liner apparatus
A wheel liner comprises a rigid frame with relatively large openings rather than a continuous surface. Non-woven fibers or potential other similar materials which are often less rigid than the frame are inserted over the openings of the frame. The resulting wheel liner is less expensive, lighter, more aesthetically pleasing, and possessing superior sound dampening capabilities than a conventional prior art wheel liner. |
| US09039072B2 |
Motor vehicle body with wheel installation strut
A motor vehicle body is provided with a lateral front wall and a wheel installation strut connected therewith with an inner component and an outer component with an outer side wall. The outer component includes, but is not limited to a front portion with a lower front connecting flange, which is connected to the inner component and forms an angle with the horizontal which amounts to a maximum of approximately 20°, and a rear portion with a lower rear connecting flange, which is connected to the lateral front wall and forms an angle with the vertical which amounts to a maximum of approximately 20°. |
| US09039067B2 |
Structure of vehicle door
This disclosure relates an attachment structure of a door sash of the vehicle door. The vehicle door of this disclosure includes: a door sash; a bracket, which joins the door sash to an inner panel; and a patch, which is joined to the bracket and the door sash and which sandwiches the door sash in cooperation with the bracket, thereby reinforcing the bracket. |
| US09039066B1 |
Foldable tonneau cover for pick-up truck and waterproof flexible strip thereof
A foldable tonneau cover is disclosed and has two frame sections and at least one hidden-type hinge. Two frame members of two adjacent frame sections are correspondingly formed with two embedded holes. The hidden-type hinge is pivotally connected between the adjacent frame members. When the frame sections are horizontally extended relative to each other, the hidden-type hinge is substantially received in the embedded holes. When the frame sections are rotated or folded relative to each other, the hidden-type hinge is partially exposed out of the embedded holes. Thus, the occupied space of the hidden-type hinge and the gap between the adjacent frame sections can be minimized. The waterproof flexible strip can be continuously extended along the entire length of the two adjacent frame members without being interfered with by the hidden-type hinge substantially hidden within frame members, so as to enhance the waterproof reliability thereof. |
| US09039064B1 |
Windshield sun screen
A sun screen is taught that includes a left pillar assembly having a left pillar and a left screen panel and a right pillar assembly having a right pillar and a right screen panel. An outer windshield spans between the left pillar assembly and the right pillar assembly and an inner windshield spans between the left pillar assembly and the right pillar assembly and away from the outer windshield to form a gap. A left handle having a left magnet connects to the left screen panel and a right handle having a right magnet connects to the right screen panel. The right handle selectively deploys the right screen panel towards the center of the inner windshield and the left handle selectively deploy the left screen panel towards the center. When fully deployed the right magnet and the left magnet hold the right handle and the left handle together. |
| US09039061B2 |
Vehicle frame assemblies with threaded connections
A method of manufacturing a vehicle frame, includes: forming compatible threads on a first rail composed of a first material and a second rail composed of a second material; forming a pair of locators on the first and second rails, said locators configured to indicate an alignment condition of the first rail and second rail when screwed together; and screwing together the first rail and second rail. |
| US09039058B1 |
Utensil manipulating article
A utensil manipulating article has a sleeve formed of a pliable material. The sleeve is suitable for receiving the utensil therein. The sleeve is movable between a utensil-receiving position and a utensil-manipulating position. The sleeve has an adhesive material on an outer surface thereof. The adhesive is suitable for attaching to fingers of a user so as to allow the user to move the sleeve between the utensil-receiving position and the utensil-manipulating position. The adhesive material includes a first adhesive strip and second adhesive strip respectively placed on a first side and an opposite side of the sleeve. A liner is removably affixed over the first and second adhesive strips. |
| US09039055B1 |
Clevis type hook with safety latch
A clevis type slip hook or grab hook includes a safety latch which is held in position by a biased pin that may be axially extended to move the latch between a latching and unlatching position to close or open the slot in the slip hook. The latch is comprised of a closure member in the form of a plate having an elongate edge that fits in the hook slot between the tip end and shank end of the hook. |
| US09039052B2 |
Mold structure and bumper
A mold structure used to form a molded object having an undercut portion includes a fixed mold as a first mold having a first molding surface for molding an obverse surface of the molded object; a slide core having an undercut molding surface used to mold the undercut portion as part of the obverse surface of the molded object; and a movable mold as a second mold having a second molding surface used to mold the reverse surface of the molded object. The first molding surface and the undercut molding surface form a cavity surface. A step is formed between the first molding surface and the second molding surface at a parting position between the fixed mold and the slide core on the cavity surface. |
| US09039051B2 |
Push/pull operating device for driving a latch device
A push/pull operating device includes first and second operational devices mounted to two sides of a door. The first operating device includes a first bracket having a plurality of non-circular mounting holes. Two engaging rods extend through two of the mounting holes of the first bracket, the door, and a latch device mounted in the door. Each engaging rod has a limiting portion fixedly received in one of the mounting holes. A head of each engaging rod presses against the first bracket. The second operational device includes a second bracket having a plurality of non-circular mounting holes. A bolt is extended through one of the mounting holes of the second bracket and the door and engaged with one of the engaging rods. A head of each bolt presses against the second bracket. Thus, the first and second brackets are securely fixed to the sides of the door. |
| US09039047B2 |
Connector assembly
A connector assembly includes a first connector having an outer tube and an inner tube, the outer tube being equipped with a pin having a first flow path, the inner tube being equipped with a first valve element opening and closing the first flow path; a second connector having a second flow path and a second valve element for opening and closing the second flow path; a locking device interconnecting, in an assembled state in which the first and second connectors are assembled together, the inner tube and the second connector; and an unlocking device for unlocking the connection between the inner tube and the second connector effected by the locking device. The first and second flow paths are interconnected in the assembled state. In this interconnected state, the connection between the inner tube and the second connector by the locking device cannot be unlocked by the unlocking device. |
| US09039043B2 |
Ice skate blade guard with safety feature
An ice skate blade guard comprises a device for limiting/preventing falls and injury on the ice when skate blade guards are inadvertently left on when the skater enters the ice. At least one longitudinally-extending bar, blade, or other member provided on the bottom of the guard is sufficiently narrow, sharp, and/or with sharp or biting side edge(s) to bite-into the ice, upon incipient sideways movement, due to the member(s) being biased against the ice and/or due to weight of the wearer. The member(s) prevent sideways slipping, but allow forward movement. The slip-prevention member(s) may be movable in/on the guard and biased downward relative to the main body. In some versions, the slip-prevention blade(s) are fixed to the guard, rigidly and non-movably protruding from the bottom of the guard. |
| US09039040B2 |
Lifting trolley
The present invention relates to a trolley, and more particularly to a lifting trolley capable of raising and lowering goods. The lifting trolley includes a trolley frame, a drive mechanism, and a bearing mechanism. The bearing mechanism is vertically slidably connected to the trolley frame, and the drive mechanism is disposed on the trolley frame and drives the bearing mechanism to slide vertically. Compared with the prior art, the lifting trolley provided by the present invention saves time and effort, is accurate in positioning, and facilitates conveying of goods. |
| US09039037B2 |
Side airbag device for vehicle
In an inflated and expanded state of a side airbag, a forwardly extending portion, provided at an upper portion of a rear side bag portion, extends from a side of a shoulder portion of a seated passenger toward a vehicle front side and is disposed above a front side bag portion. A dimension in a vehicle transverse direction of this forwardly extending portion is set to be smaller than that of the front side bag portion, and a vehicle transverse direction inner side surface at an upper end side of the front side bag portion is inclined or curved so as to rise-up while heading toward a vehicle transverse direction outer side. An upper arm portion is pushed-up due to sliding contact with this surface. Even when the seated passenger inertially toward an oblique front of a vehicle, the shoulder portion can be restrained by the forwardly extending portion. |
| US09039031B2 |
Front retaining devices for a gliding board
A gliding apparatus includes a gliding board, a first front boot-retaining device for ascending a slope and a second front boot-retaining device for the descent. The first front retaining device comprises a first boot-fastening mechanism, defining a boot pivot axis during the ascent. The second front retaining device comprises a second boot-fastening mechanism, including a movable element incorporating an interface surface capable of contacting a front portion of the boot, the movable element being separate from the first fastening mechanism. The second front retaining device is configurable in a first “inactive” configuration for which the interface surface is away from the boot front portion, and a second “active” configuration for which the interface surface contacts the boot front portion. The first boot-fastening mechanism is capable of cooperating with the movable element of the second front retaining device so as to maintain the second front retaining device in its active configuration. |
| US09039030B2 |
Convertible ski systems having toe binding mounts and associated quick-release locking mechanisms
A ski system includes a ski, a heel binding provided on an upper surface of the ski, a toe binding mount provided on the upper surface of the ski forward of the heel binding, a toe binding releasably mounted to the toe binding mount, and a quick-release locking mechanism for locking the toe binding to the toe binding mount. The quick-release locking mechanism is configured for release by hand. |
| US09039029B2 |
Transport trailer with adjustable-width swing arms
A system and method for adjusting the arms of an over-sized trailer is described herein. In one embodiment, the system can comprise a center support, a plurality of swing arms, and a plurality of stabilizer rods. The swing arms can be mounted to the left side and the right side of the center support. The swing arms can each comprise an arm and an arm hinge. The swing arms can be capable of rotating about the arm hinge. Furthermore, a dolly can be capable of being mounted to each swing arms. Each of the stabilizer rods can comprise a first rod portion and a second rod portion. The first rod portion can be connected to the center support and the second rod portion connected to one of the swing arms. |
| US09039027B2 |
Foldable bicycle
A foldable bicycle comprises a frame having a rear portion supporting a rear wheel about a rear axis of rotation, a front portion supporting a front wheel about a front axis of rotation and a hinge system. The hinge system comprises a first part arranged on the rear portion and provided with a first plane surface, and a second part arranged on the front portion and provided with a second plane surface. Inside the first and second parts an actuator mechanism is arranged for actuating a stud that locks or unlocks said parts. The first plane surface and the second plane surface are disposed in a plane that is slightly inclined relative to a horizontal plane, said inclined plane being configured to facilitate pivoting of the front portion relative to the rear portion towards a folded position, in which the rear and front axes of rotation are in alignment. |
| US09039024B1 |
Bicycle seatpost
A bicycle seatpost includes a first part and a second part. A curvature radius of the first part is r1, and an arc length of the first part is equal to or greater than πr1 and smaller than 2πr1, the first part is set toward a head of a bicycle. The second part is connected to the first part, wherein a curvature radius of the second part is greater than the curvature radius of the first part, the second part is set toward an end of the bicycle. |
| US09039022B2 |
Reconfigurable fixed suspension semi-trailer, flatbed or chassis
A reconfigurable fixed position suspension and support structure attached to the trailer body using a locking device consisting of pins, bolts and/or other fastening devices. The support structure has a removable locking device that when attached to the support structure locks the support structure and suspension into a fixed position relative to the trailer body. When the trailer is not in operation, the locking device can be removed allowing the suspension group to be reconfigured, and each suspension to be repositioned relative to the trailer body. The removable locking device is then reattached to the suspension support structure locking the support structure and suspension into a new fixed position relative to the trailer body. |
| US09039021B2 |
Control arrangement for a hydropneumatic suspension system and hydropneumatic suspension system comprising such a control arrangement
A control arrangement for a hydropneumatic suspension system and a hydropneumatic suspension system are provided. The control arrangement has a pressure supply connection, a return connection, a piston chamber connection adapted to be connected to the piston chamber of a suspension cylinder of the hydropneumatic suspension system, an annular chamber connection adapted to be connected to the annular chamber of the suspension cylinder, and at least one controllable valve arrangement comprising a plurality of switch positions via which the pressure supply connection and the return connection are connectable to the piston chamber connection and the annular chamber connection. The annular chamber connection is in flow connection with the return connection via a pressure-limiting line having a hydraulically controllable pressure-limiting element. The pressure-limiting element has a control input adapted to be acted upon via a control line by a control pressure which is limitable to a predefinable pressure limit. |
| US09039019B2 |
Self-illuminating skateboard
A skateboard is provided having a transparent deck. First and second wheel assemblies are attached to the front and rear portion of the skateboard, respectively. The wheel assemblies each include a truck and two wheels. Each respective wheel comprises a wheel covering having a translucent surface and a wheel interior defined by a rotational axis and the wheel covering. The wheel interior houses a wheel generator configured to generate electricity and light emitting devices electrically coupled to the wheel generator that emit light when the wheel generator generates electricity. The skateboard also has a graphics layer on the top surface of the deck that is illuminated by the light emitting devices. The graphics layer comprises an adhesive surface having a graphic printed thereon and an adhesive applied thereon. The adhesive surface is adhesively affixed to the top or bottom surface of the transparent or translucent plastic deck. |
| US09039017B2 |
Roller skating apparatus
A hand ice skating mechanism in conjunction with an athletic protective mechanism utilizing a glove portion including a front portion and a rear portion, wherein the rear portion includes a blade retaining portion and a blade assembly in communication with the blade retaining portion. |
| US09039014B2 |
Seal
A seal for sealing between two component parts permits a leakage flow of fluid from an upstream side of the seal to a downstream side of the seal. The seal has a jet-producing formation which produces one or more fluid jets that impinge on and thereby restrict the leakage flow. |
| US09039013B2 |
Hydrodynamic non-contacting seal
A hydrodynamic non-contacting seal wherein the sealing surface of a rotatable sealing member is grooved in a spiral pattern such that the depth of the grooves decreases in a direction opposite to the direction of rotation of the rotatable sealing member. |
| US09039009B2 |
Sheet feed apparatus and sheet feed method
A sheet feed apparatus which includes a sheet feed tray in which a plurality of sheets is loaded in piles; a sheet feed roller which is provided at a forward position of the sheet feed tray in a sheet feed direction, and sends the loaded sheets inside thereof; and a lift detection sensor which detects, by using a movable lever, a lift of a sheet bundle which occurs when the sheet bundle, of which a rear or a side in a sheet feed direction is bound, is sent by the sheet feed roller therein, the lift detection sensor being provided at a side position of the sheet bundle in a width direction and at a backward position with respect to the center of the sheet bundle in the sheet feed direction. |
| US09039008B2 |
Sheet processing apparatus and image forming system
A sheet processing apparatus, including: a stacking section; a first alignment section which aligns both end portions in a sheet conveyance direction of the sheet stacked in the stacking section; a second alignment section which aligns both end portions in a width direction, that is orthogonal to the sheet conveyance direction, of the sheet aligned by the first alignment section; a sheet ejection section which ejects the sheet stacked in the stacking section outside the stacking section; and a control section which moves a pair of horizontal alignment plates away from the both end portions in the width direction of the sheet after operating a gripping section so as to grip the sheet in a state where the pair of horizontal alignment plates contacts the both end portions in the width direction of the sheet supported by a supporting section. |
| US09039005B2 |
Image forming apparatus
An image forming apparatus, including a chassis with an opening formed on one side thereof; a first placement section, on which a sheet inserted through the opening is placeable; a cover configured to be openable to expose and closable to cover the opening and configured to form, when in a position to expose the opening, an outer part of the first placement section outside the chassis; and a second placement section arranged in an upper position with respect to the first placement section, and on which a sheet inserted through the opening is placeable, is provided. The second placement section is detachably attached to the chassis through the opening. |
| US09039002B2 |
Sheet post-processing apparatus with function of punching sheet
A sheet post-processing apparatus which is capable of shortening time wasted until actual start of punching and enhancing productivity. A drive unit causes a moving member which has a cam and reciprocates. A punching member is driven by a movement of the cam of the moving member and punches a sheet when the moving member moves forth and moves back. A determination unit determines a type of the sheet. A control unit controls, when a sheet to be punched is to be subjected to a punching process, the drive unit such that the moving member starts moving before conveyance of the sheet to be punched stops, and controls, when the sheet to be punched is to be subjected to the punching process, the drive unit such that timing with which the moving member starts moving is changed based on the determination by the determination unit. |
| US09038996B2 |
Spring with adjustable spring constant
A spring comprising a spring itself and end seat plates and a mount. In the spring seat plates are mechanically connected (constantly, variably, or actuable to connect) to each other and to the mount, so when a force or moment is applied to one of those seat plates its movement induce the movement of other seat plate as well, changing the total movement of the spring. Furthermore, there are provided mechanical means (a cams, a gears, a levers etc.) for changing the linkage between the end seat plates and the mount, which result in increasing, remaining the same (constant spring) or decreasing the spring constant. So, the spring constant of the spring can be controlled as to be adjustable. |
| US09038995B2 |
Vibration isolator
A vibration isolator includes an inner tube (11), an outer tube (12) surrounding the inner tube (11) from a radial outer side of the inner tube, and an elastic body (13) coupling the inner tube (11) and the outer tube (12). Multiple pressure-absorbing fluid chambers (35, 36), whose walls are partly formed by the elastic body (13), are disposed inside the outer tube (12), and include a pair of first pressure-absorbing fluid chambers (35) interconnected through first restricting passages (37), and a second pressure-absorbing fluid chamber (36) connected to an auxiliary fluid chamber (28), in which a fluid is filled, through a second restricting passage. The pair of first pressure-absorbing fluid chambers (35) are disposed to sandwich the inner tube (11) therebetween. The second pressure-absorbing fluid chamber (36) is arranged in parallel to the inner tube (11) in an orthogonal direction (C) perpendicular to both an axial direction of the inner tube (11) and a sandwiching direction (B) in which the inner tube (11) is sandwiched between the pair of first pressure-absorbing fluid chambers (35). The inner tube (11) runs along overall lengths of the pair of first pressure-absorbing fluid chambers (35) and the second pressure-absorbing fluid chamber (36) in the axial direction. |
| US09038994B2 |
Air spring protector
An air spring for a vehicle suspension includes a resilient spring body that is partially surrounded by a protective cover. The protective cover protects the resilient spring body from rupturing when used in harsh vehicle conditions. The protective cover is comprised of a rigid or flexible armor material that is resistive to munitions, such as projectiles and razor wire, for example. |
| US09038993B2 |
Desuperheater with flow measurement
In accordance with the present invention, there is provided a steam desuperheater which is integrated into a steam line. The steam desuperheater comprises a segment of steam pipe having one or more spring loaded spray nozzles attached thereto. Installed within the interior of the steam pipe of the desuperheater is a liner. The desuperheater is also provided with a steam flow measurement sub-assembly comprising a differential pressure transmitter including a pair of pressure gauges which are operatively connected to respective ones of a first pressure tapping which is formed in the steam pipe before the liner, and a second pressure tapping which is formed in the liner. The measurement of the differential pressure allows for a determination of steam flow through the desuperheater. In addition to the differential pressure transmitter outfitted onto the steam pipe, the steam flow measurement sub-assembly further preferably comprises pressure and temperature transmitters which are installed in the steam line upstream of the desuperheater for providing a density determination that is also required for the steam flow determination. |
| US09038984B2 |
Solenoid valve, in particular for slip-controlled motor vehicle braking systems
A solenoid valve, the magnet armature of which is designed to be movable relative to a first valve-closing element, for which purpose the first valve-closing element is accommodated telescopically in a coupling element attached to the magnet armature, wherein the coupling element is guided along the inner wall of a guide sleeve inserted in the valve housing in order to align the magnet armature precisely with the first valve-closing element in the direction of a second valve-closing element which is likewise accommodated in the guide sleeve. |
| US09038983B2 |
Active drain plug for high voltage battery applications
A drain plug assembly that has particular application for sealing a drain hole in a high voltage battery compartment on a vehicle. The plug assembly includes a plug that inserted into the drain hole. The plug assembly further includes a return spring coupled to the plug and causing the plug to be biased into the drain hole. The plug assembly also includes at least one shape memory alloy device coupled to the plug and a support structure. The SMA device receives an electrical current that causes the device to contract and move the plug out of the drain hole against the bias of the return spring. |
| US09038982B1 |
Device for hanging a frame on a vertical wall
A device is provided for hanging a frame member against a wall includes a crossbar and first and second vertical arms oriented perpendicular to the crossbar. The crossbar has a longitudinal track and a leveling bubble. The first and second vertical arms each have a linear track that extends along the length, and a marker on the rearward surface thereof. The vertical arms are retained to the crossbar by knuckles having a guide for slideably engaging the linear track of the vertical arms and the first vertical arms are retained perpendicular to the crossbar and are longitudinally moveable perpendicular to the linear edge. |
| US09038981B2 |
Seat apparatus for vehicle
A seat slide apparatus for a vehicle includes a first rail, a second rail, a lock member, a biasing member, the lock member being rotatably connected to the second rail in a state where a support shaft fixed to one of the second rail and the lock member is positioned within an elongated hole formed at the other of the second rail and the lock member to be movable in first and second directions of the relative movement and is biased by a support shaft biasing member in a direction orthogonal to the first and second directions, and a restriction portion restricting the support shaft from moving within the elongated hole in the first and second directions in a case where a load applied in one of the first and second directions is smaller than a predetermined value. |
| US09038978B1 |
Support stand with integrated fire baffle
A system includes a device chassis and a base. The base includes a first section on a first side of the base, a second section on a second side of the base, and a middle section between the first section and the second section. The middle section is arranged above the first section and the second section. The device chassis attaches to the middle section, and a space is provided between the middle section and the device chassis. |
| US09038976B2 |
Sporting gear storage system
A surface mounted sports gear display apparatus capable of holding a wide range of equipment types and sizes implementing a transverse sliding tension mechanism that adjusts in width and applies a tension force on opposing grip members and that apply a compressive force on the displayed object which creates frictional contact on the long edges between the displayed object and grip members allowing the object to be held horizontally, vertically or diagonally. Additionally a center double-edged grip member can be added creating an expanded functionality for pairs of objects such as skis. The grip edge shape can be altered to enhance surface contact for objects such as surf boards, baseball bats, tennis rackets, kayak and canoe paddles, and rowing ores. |
| US09038975B2 |
Floral vase anchor
The floral vase anchor is preferably formed from a single strip of plastic or metal, and includes a tri-planar surface, wherein the central portion includes a series of notches on either side, and upper and lower sections extend at obtuse angles away from the plane of the central portion. The upper section and lower section each include floral insert slots at the distal ends thereof for receiving the stems from a floral arrangement. In use, a florist may insert the stems into the floral insert slots until the stems are positioned within the rounded portion of the slots. Then rubber bands may be used to secure the stems to the anchor, and the assembly may be placed into a vase. A securing mechanism may be used to fix the anchor to the vase, and may also be used to secure the vase to the ground or a monument. |
| US09038972B2 |
Tilt mechanism for a monitor
A tilt mechanism for an electronic display. A tilt mechanism including a counterbalancing mechanism having a compression spring assembly. Such tilt mechanism allowing an electronic display to be positioned at a variety of tilt angles. A tilt mechanism including a support that is pivotable with respect to a support surface. |
| US09038969B2 |
Support profile for a support arm system
The invention relates to a support arm profile for a support arm system, comprising a receiving space for cables or the like which is open toward the surroundings, wherein a connecting element is molded inside the support arm cross-section and is connected indirectly or directly to two opposite side walls of the profiled support element. In such a support profile, high profile stiffness, which meets all the requirements of a support arm system, can be achieved in that two delimiting elements are connected, spaced apart, to the connecting element, and that the delimiting elements extend from the connecting element at an angle to the side walls. |
| US09038968B2 |
Attachable grommets for hanging pipes
A plastic, polymeric or silicone grommet used as a dampener or insulator for round and/or hex style tube, pipe and conduit hangers, and particularly to a grommet having a channel portion and a rounded edge portion which directly surrounds the edges of hanger brackets used as pipe supports. Each flat surface of the grommet is substantially rounded to prevent the collection of liquids, dirt or debris. |
| US09038961B2 |
Method for simulating the movement behaviour of a fluid in a closed, moving container
A method for simulating the movement behavior of a fluid in a closed moving container is provided. The simulation is based on the determination of the potential movement path of the center of gravity of the volume of the fluid as an elliptical trajectory situated in a disturbance plane having certain semi-axes. |
| US09038960B2 |
Absorbent dome for a radiating collector tube
A device for thermal monitoring a piece of equipment, which is integrated on a craft placed in a forced vacuum environment, an outside part of the equipment projecting outside of a wall of the craft and being subjected to a solar radiation flux, includes an absorbent screen that is suitable for being placed between the outside part of the equipment and the wall of the craft, whereby this absorbent screen has—on at least one portion of its front face, designed to be placed on the side removed from the wall of the craft—an absorptivity αSOLAR that is the largest possible in the field of solar radiation, coupled to a low emissivity εIR in the infrared spectrum. The absorbent screen is made of a very heat-conductive material and has—on at least a portion of its rear face, suitable for being oriented toward the wall of the craft—a high emissivity εIR in the infrared spectrum, typically greater than or equal to 0.7. |
| US09038957B1 |
Systems and methods for providing energy to support missions in near earth space
A system has a plurality of spacecraft in orbit around the earth for collecting energy from the Sun in space, using stimulated emission to configure that energy as well defined states of the optical field and delivering that energy efficiently throughout the region of space surrounding Earth. |
| US09038956B1 |
Devices configured to provide pre-launch support of kites
Certain embodiments described herein are directed to devices configured to retain, at least for some period, and provide pre-launch support kites such as stunt kites. In certain instances, the device positions stunt kites of various sizes and design, including, for example, delta wing kits, diamond kits and foil kits, in a reclined position to provide pre-launch stability and wind flow/spill-over across the face of the kite to help prevent unintentional or premature launch. If desired, optional control line upright supports can be present that permit minimum control line pull-back thereby reducing the recline of the kite to bring the face of the kite into the wind and thereby launch the kite. The control line upright supports may also prevent the kite from falling completely face down on the surface, thereby requiring a reset of the kite on the device. |
| US09038951B2 |
Coupling assembly
A coupling assembly for joining a first component to a second component, the assembly comprising a shaft for connecting to a first component, and a bracket including a mounting plate for connecting to a second component. The bracket has a bracket arm extending from the mounting plate, and a head having a through-bore on the bracket arm. The shaft is received in the through-bore. A setting device acts between the head and the shaft for setting of the position of the shaft with respect to the head in the axial direction of the shaft. The assembly further includes one or more spherical bearing surfaces, which permit self-alignment of the setting device to accommodate tilting of the shaft with respect to the head about a central point in two orthogonal directions. Also, a joint comprising a first component joined to a second component by one or more of the coupling assemblies. Also, a method of forming a joint using one or more of the coupling assemblies. |
| US09038947B2 |
Floor for an aircraft cargo compartment and method for the assembly thereof
In conventional aircraft cargo compartments panels or similar flat floor elements are fastened to floor beams or similar supporting elements that are installed in the body of the aircraft. Subsequently functional units such as roller elements, latches or PDUs are mounted and connected to one another by way of appropriate control conductors. It is proposed to fasten the floor elements permanently to the supporting beams so as to form prefabricated floor modules and to install these floor modules in the aircraft. |
| US09038945B2 |
Integrated aircraft galley system
An integrated aircraft galley structure includes a service module having a plurality of galley inserts including at least one oven and at least one refrigeration unit. The service module is formed with a plurality of bays sized to receive the plurality of galley inserts, along with a human machine interface for controlling all of the galley inserts. The service module further includes a plurality of galley insert modules for controlling each galley insert, and an insert power and control unit for each galley insert for controlling power to said insert. The entire system is controlled by a galley power and control unit for controlling each of the insert galley power and control units, and an AC distribution unit for distributing power to the insert power and control units. |
| US09038938B2 |
UAV kit
The embodiments herein disclose a personal UAV kit for storing, preparing and remote control of micro UAVs (40). The UAV kit includes a base unit (10), a control unit (30) and at least one UAV. The UAVs can typically be a winged aircraft with foldable wings or a helicopter with a two-bladed or foldable rotor. The base unit comprises UAV compartments for housing at least one UAV, bay (14) for storing the control unit, batteries and electronic components for charging, communication, control and processing and storing of data. In addition, the system includes an eye near display device for viewing system information and sensor data, typically live video, transmitted from the UAV. |
| US09038928B2 |
Spray gun
A spray gun, including a gun body, a handle attached to the gun body, a fluid passageway, a handle switch, and a buckle. The fluid passageway is disposed in the gun body and the handle. The handle switch is movably disposed on the handle by a rivet for opening and shutting the fluid passageway. The buckle is movably disposed on the handle via a switch shaft. The spray gun employs the buckle as a locking mechanism that has fewer parts, and therefore costs are reduced and convenience, reliability, and durability improved. The spray gun can be operated with one hand only by swinging it once to open and swinging it again to close. As a result, the performance and quality of the spray gun are improved. |
| US09038927B2 |
Plumbing spout device
A plumbing spout device which has a jet regulating device is provided, which is situated on an outflow side from an upstream attachment screen in a direction of flow. The jet regulating device is provided in the form of a perforated plate having at least a perforated field in at least a partial area thereof. The spout device has a mounting sleeve that supports the jet regulating device on an outflow side sleeve end area thereof, and the mounting sleeve is joined to the water spout of the plumbing spout fitment via a screwed, clip, detent, adhesive or welded connection. The spout device has a comparatively low installation height that does not significantly limit design possibilities when designing associated spout fitments. The spout device also makes it possible to achieve a high jet quality and a good jet pattern. |
| US09038926B2 |
Attachment to improve transfer efficiency for a spraying device
An attachment to be employed with any spray device is disclosed. The attachment includes four vanes which are radially attached to an air hub with a central aperture, the central aperture adapted to receive the front portion of the spray device therethrough which when activated dispenses an atomizable substance in a pattern toward a workpiece. At the distal end of each of the four vanes, the vane is angled forward such that it generally points toward the workpiece. At the terminal end of each vane is a plurality of compressed air exit apertures. A compressed air source is attached to the air hub which guides the air through air conduits interiorly disposed within each of the vanes, where the compressed air is forced to exit each of the compressed air exit apertures forming an a second pattern which surrounds the atomizable substance pattern, and further boosts or pushes the atomizable substance onto the workpiece. The second pattern reduces overspray, bounce-back, and errant particles, and improves the transfer efficiency. |
| US09038923B2 |
Fluid level indicator in an airless fluid sprayer
The present disclosure generally relates to systems and devices for spraying fluid materials such as paints, stains, and the like, and more specifically, but not by limitation, to a fluid level indicator for an airless fluid sprayer. In one example, an airless fluid sprayer is provided and includes a fluid container, a controller, and a fluid level indication module implemented by the controller to generate an indication of a level of fluid material in the fluid container. |
| US09038916B2 |
Smart card with reconfigurable receiver
The invention proposes a smart card which comprises a digital signal processing receiver that can automatically identify the type of a smart card reader based on the error vector magnitude of signals received from the reader. The digital signal processing receiver is able to reconfigure itself at runtime in order to optimally minimize its power consumption in dependence on the type of reader it is communicating with. Furthermore, the invention proposes a new preamble structure that comprises a basic part and an optional additional part. |
| US09038915B2 |
Pre-paid usage system for encoded information reading terminals
A fleet management system for managing a fleet of encoded information reading (EIR) terminals can comprise one or more computers, a fleet management software module, and a payment processing software module in communication with the fleet management software module. The fleet management software module can be configured, responsive to receiving a customer initiated request, to generate an unlocking message upon processing a payment by the payment processing software module. The unlocking message can be provided by a bar code to be read by an EIR terminal, or by a bit stream to be transferred to an EIR terminal via network. Each EIR terminal can be configured to perform not more than a pre-defined number of EIR operations responsive to receiving the unlocking message. |
| US09038914B2 |
Method and system for simulating a proximity-based transaction device
Reference equipment including a reference card and a reference reader is provided for testing electronic payment devices such as cards and card readers. The reference equipment includes reference cards and reference readers that respectively can be used to verify compliance of product cards and product readers with product specifications The product specifications may, for example, be the ISO 14443 Standard specifications which are commonly accepted in the electronic payment industry The reference equipment is designed to enhance interoperability of product payment devices whose functional behaviors may vary because of vendor customization of device specifications or due to manufacturing tolerances In some embodiments, the reference equipment includes a reference card for testing card readers The exemplary reference card can comprise a current mirror to permit an electronically adjustable variable load using an external controller The reference card electronic circuit can exhibit variable load conditions. |
| US09038902B2 |
Electronic device for recognizing erroneous insertion of card, and operating method thereof
An electronic device comprises a socket having a plurality of connection terminals that accommodates a card-type external device having a corner cut-out portion, a plurality of contact pads exposed on a surface of the card-type external device that are correspondingly connected to the connection terminals in response to insertion of the card-type external device into the socket. A detection unit detects erroneous insertion of the card-type external device into the socket in response to incorrect location of the cut-out portion during the erroneous insertion. A processor outputs a control signal in response to the detected erroneous insertion of the card-type external device. |
| US09038898B2 |
Anti-theft security device to increase marketing opportunities
The present invention relates to a security device for improving the marketing impact of an article of commerce. The device generally includes a housing having a base and a cover with the cover having at least one opening to allow for the insertion of an attachment mechanism. The housing element of the present invention in one embodiment is in a shape representing a particular theme such as a particular trademark, trade dress, special events, commemorative events, historical events and combinations thereof. The housing may contain an RFID device and/or an electronic article security device. The present invention also provides a method of attaching a security device described herein to an article of commerce. |
| US09038896B2 |
Ticket validation system
A ticket reading system comprising a portable head section with an aperture and means for removably affixing the head section to a stationary fixture; in the head section, a camera with a field of view over the aperture to read visible code elements of a ticket; an RFID antenna and module adjacent to the aperture to read RFID/NFC code elements from a device or tag; a wireless network communication module to communicate data packets among a processor and a wireless network access point; means for ticket validation feedback; instructions which cause: receiving a ticket identifier value from the camera or RFID module; sending a request via the wireless network for a server computer to validate the ticket identifier value; receiving a ticket validation response from the server computer; based upon the response, driving the means for providing ticket validation feedback to generate either valid response feedback or invalid response feedback. |
| US09038891B2 |
Banking machine controlled responsive to data read from data bearing records
A banking system operates responsive to data read from data bearing records. The system includes an automated banking machine comprising a card reader. The card reader includes a movable read head that can read card data along a magnetic stripe of a card that was inserted long-edge first. The card reader includes a card entry gate. The gate is opened for a card that is determined to be properly oriented for data reading. The card reader can encrypt card data, including account data. The card data is usable by the machine to authorize a user to carry out a financial transfer involving the account. |
| US09038888B2 |
Fraud control when granting instant credit
Credit applicants may apply for instant credit, and use an instant account number (“IAN”) to make purchases after the instant credit has been granted. Fraud control methods may be used in authorizing the instant credit. When the IAN is issued to purchase airline tickets, it can be ensured that the applicant's last name matches the passenger's last name for the airline ticket being purchased, and that the ticket will not be renamed or sold. When the IAN is issued in conjunction with a partner's loyalty or rewards program, the applicant's account information with the rewards program is captured. It is ensured that the applicant has some tenure with the partner and that data submitted by the applicant is consistent with data on file with the partner. |
| US09038885B2 |
Dollar coin converter
The Dollar Coin Converter is an annular attachment to a United States dollar coin, which semi-permanently converts the coin into a size that is tactilely and visually, more easily distinguished from the United States quarter coin. It allows advertising and marketing on the faces of the annular attachment to provide incentives to circulate the coin, saving billions of dollars. The Dollar Coin Converter is made of inexpensive, one-piece or two-piece construction. It holds a dollar coin securely, and will tolerate normal handling, cash transactions, flipping, or jostling in a coin purse, pocket or money bag without unintentional release of the coin. The coin may be easily removed or replaced even by a child or a person with long finger nails for use in a vending machine. The converted dollar coin retains the inherent magnetic and electrical, anti-counterfeiting characteristics of the dollar coin. |
| US09038879B2 |
Corrugated edge nip
A web tensioner, a web slitter, a method of tensioning a web, and a method of slitting a web are provided. A corrugated edge nip is used in the tensioner, the slitter, and the methods of tensioning and slitting. The corrugated edge nip can provide a crossweb tension to a suspended web or film in a web line. The corrugated edge nip can be used in conjunction with, for example, a rotary shear slitter to improve slit edge quality. |
| US09038874B2 |
Load carrier foot and a vehicle rack arrangement for a vehicle
The present invention relates to a vehicle rack arrangement (10) comprises a load carrying bar (29 and at least a first clamp rack load carrier foot (50). The first clamp rack load carrier foot (50) comprises a grip member (80), a body (55), an attachment arrangement (90) and optionally an intermediate member (70). The load carrier foot (50) comprises a connection arrangement (50) which interacts with a stop surface (25a, 25b) of a load carrying bar (20) in a retaining manner to thereby, when operating the attachment arrangement (90), impart a force component to the load carrying bar (20) towards the body (55). A stop surface (25b) of the load carrying bar (20) prevents the connection arrangement (51) from displacement in a direction parallel with the longitudinal direction (X) of the load carrying bar (20), after assembly therewith. The present invention provides for a load carrier foot (50) having very few distinct components, which is cheap to manufacture and which enables an end user to connect the clamp rack load carrier foot (50) to a load carrying bar (20) in a simple and easy manner. |
| US09038873B2 |
Attachment system for hand-held tools
An attachment system for tools includes a housing with a wall defining an open central region. The housing has a first slot and a second slot spaced from the first slot, each slot extending through the wall to the open central region. A rotating member is disposed in the open central region. A clip member has a clip protrusion with neck, head and tip portions, the neck portion sized to be slidably received in one of the slots. The tip portion is configured to engage the rotating member to cause it to rotate about a central longitudinal axis as the neck portion moves distally along one of the slots, causing a catch surface to align with the tip portion and a channel to align with a tip portion of a second clip member retained in the second slot, thereby retaining the first clip member and releasing the second clip member. |
| US09038870B2 |
Head mount apparatus for hands-free video recording with an electronic device
A head mount device is worn by a person to retain an electronic device in a desirable position for hand-free use as a video recorder. A head strap assembly with tri-glide adjustment mechanisms extends from the sides and top of the main body mounting plate, allowing the device to fit most head sizes. The mounting plate is preferably an injection-molded part for holding the electronic device in a horizontal position with an elastic retention strap securing mechanism between the mounting plate and the electronic device. An elastic strap extends from an upending portion of the mounting plate, wraps around the electronic device, extends through a slot in the mounting plate, and fastens back upon itself via hook and loop fasteners to capture the device in landscape orientation. The design of the mounting plate and preferred length of the retention strap fit most modern smartphone designs by simply tightening the retention strap around the smartphone. |
| US09038868B2 |
Twin baby carrier
A soft structured baby carrier designed to carry two babies on wearer at the same time. The carrier includes two individual pouches possessing a top upwardly curved edge, a bottom edge, and two opposing side edges creating a pouch. Each pouch bottom edge is fixed to the top edge of a wide padded hip belt adapted to connect each pouch together and then encircle the lumbar region of hips of wearer. There are two padded shoulder straps that buckle to the pouches and can be conjoined by a chest strap that is slide-able secured connecting each shoulder strap together. There are four carry positions for this carrier. Two babies can be worn on the front of wearer with one baby mounted in each pouch in the Front Carry Position. One baby mounted in one pouch on front of wearer and one baby mounted in one pouch on back of wearer in the Front and Back Carry Position. The carrier can be split into two carriers so one adult can carry one baby in a Pouch each on the front of wearer in the Individual Carry Position. The carrier can also utilize both Shoulder Straps on one Pouch to carry one baby on one wearer in a traditional style soft structure buckled baby carrier in the Single Baby Carry Position. |
| US09038865B2 |
Apparatus and methods for assisting in controlling the discharge of material onto a conveyor from a dispenser
In some embodiments, apparatus useful for assisting in controlling the discharge of material onto a conveyor from a material dispenser includes a carrier, first and second side restrictors extending downwardly from the carrier and at least one wiper extending downwardly from the carrier and transverse to the side restrictors. The side restrictors are configured to assist in preventing at least some material from overflowing off the sides of the conveyor, while the wiper is configured to level the top of at least some of the material dispensed on the conveyor. |
| US09038864B2 |
Dispensing device for dispensing a liquid gas formulation in a metered manner and method for producing the dispensing device
The invention relates to a device for dispensing a liquid gas formulation in a metered manner, wherein the device is particularly suited for use as an injection system in nail driving devices and comprises a pressure-stable container having a flanged rim, to which a valve cover containing a dispensing valve is tightly fastened. The container is equipped with two separated chambers, one of which receives the liquid gas formulation and communicates with the dispensing valve and the other of which contains a driving medium under over-pressure. A piston, which can be moved in a sealing manner and which divides the container into the two chambers, is provided in the container. The driving medium is compressed air in combination with a small amount of liquid gas formulation. The flanged rim of the container is designed as an inner flanging. The piston is equipped with a one-way valve arrangement, which allows liquid gas formulation to overflow from the chamber containing the liquid gas formulation into the chamber containing the driving medium. The dispensing device is particularly inexpensive to design and can be cheaply produced and filled in a very simple manner. |
| US09038854B2 |
Product distribution device
A product distribution device for accommodating at least one row of products with products which can be arranged in succession on a support surface of a product guide element in a receiving space with the following features: at least one door for stocking the receiving space with the products, guide means which are guided along the support surface in one conveyance direction F for advancing the products in the conveyance direction F, a catch element which can be switched between one catch position of the conveyance means and one conveyance position of the conveyance means. |
| US09038850B1 |
Hinged universal lid for a beverage container
The beverage container lid assembly includes a clip that may engage a beverage container. A cover is movably coupled to the clip. The cover may close the beverage container. A trigger is coupled to the cover. The trigger is manipulated by a user. The cover is positionable between a closed position and an open position. |
| US09038844B2 |
Container and pouch
The present invention relates to a container (2) and a pouch (1). The container and pouch is preferably mutually shaped so that the pouch fits tightly into the container. The container comprises a closure (5) for closing the container and preferably being adapted to maintain the pouch in an open state in a position where its opening is facing upwardly. In addition, the closure comprises a lid (7), allowing re-closable access to the contents stored in the pouch. |
| US09038843B2 |
Food container
A food container includes a glass container, a lid and a protective sleeve. The sleeve covers at least a portion of the side walls and bottom surface of the glass container. The lid has a perimeter that is absent of features directly securing the lid to the container. The lid has a receiving feature which is engaged by a latch on the protective sleeve when the latch is moved from an open position to a locked position. |
| US09038838B2 |
Intermodal container
An intermodal container comprising: a plurality of self-centering volume maximizing posts; where the width of the container is about 38 inches to about 52 inches, the length is about 44 inches to about 110 inches, and the height is about 28 inches to about 88 inches; a plurality of side support members that act as very stiff springs that can provide shock dampening effects and reduce vibration to the interior of the container; a plurality of removable blocking and bracing members attached to support members; and where the cross-sectional area of each of the posts has more than 4 bends, where the bends are configured to provide greater strength to the posts while allowing for use of a lighter material. |
| US09038836B1 |
Lightweight coupler
The coupler system of a railway car truck is constructed such that basic overall appearance may be maintained, but the actual material of which it is constructed is changed. According to one embodiment, the coupler is constructed from cast austempered ductile iron; whereas cast iron has a density, 0.26 lbs/in^3, which is approximately 8% less than steel, 0.283 lbs/in^3, thereby allowing for a reduction in weight over steel. A suitable austempering process is used to produce the austempered metal coupler and components thereof. A second benefit of embodiments of the present invention provides for a more efficient use of materials, meaning less metal is used to make the same final shape, as a way of reducing the coupler weight. Both factures combined allow for a lighter weight coupler, while utilizing the standard designs. Alternate coupler configurations are disclosed for further reducing coupler weight. |
| US09038835B2 |
Crane mat carrier
A user-friendly crane mat carrier is provided for conveniently transporting, storing and supporting crane mats, pads and other items. The economical light weight crane mat assembly can comprise a frame assembly with a main load-supporting bar, crossbars and perimeter bars. The special crane mat carrier can be easily connected to a crane, such as with a drawbar fixture, securing plate and locking plate. A hanger assembly with a suspension bar can be provided to hang the crane mat carrier. A latch mechanism can also be provided to securely lock the crane mat carrier. |
| US09038832B2 |
Adapter panel support assembly
An adapter panel support assembly having a frame assembly, a mounting bracket, and a connection assembly is disclosed. The frame assembly may receive and support an adapter panel. The connection assembly connects the frame assembly to the mounting bracket to allow the frame assembly to rotate and releasably lock at more than two positions when force is applied to the frame assembly. The connection assembly has a plurality of detents such that the frame assembly releasably locks at predetermined positions of the detents. The connection assembly has a ball bearing plunger mounted in the frame assembly. The ball bearing plunger retracts when the force is applied to the frame assembly to rotate the frame assembly between the detents and extends into each of the detents at the position of each of the detents to releasably lock the frame assembly at the position of that detent. |
| US09038830B2 |
Filter device
A filter device is disclosed. The device includes at least one substantially flat filter media that may be encapsulated between non-permeable films. Some embodiments comprise ports for introducing a fluid to be filtered and for evacuating the filtered fluid. Various substrates may be employed therein in cooperation with the at least one filter media to enhance device performance. Also disclosed are various apparatuses configured to contain at least one filter device. |
| US09038826B2 |
Stackable cup
A stackable cup having a rigid handle with an open top, the open top shaped and dimensioned to receive a complementary handle of a stackable cup of the like such that one or more cups may be angularly stacked, the cup having a lip projecting from the open top and extending outwardly to a circular rim, which in turn extends downwardly to define the drinking cup. |
| US09038816B2 |
Medicine feeding device, and medicine counting device
A medicine counting device including a rotary container broadening radially in an upward direction and configured to rotate around an axis of the rotary container; a guide member fixed with a predetermined gap on a top surface side of the rotary container, spirally extending from the central portion towards an outer circumference of the rotary container, and configured to guide a medicine moved by a rotation of the rotary container from the central portion towards the outer circumference of the rotary container. The medicine counting device further includes a detector provided outside of the rotary container and a regulator configured to feed a medicine having been moved to the outer circumference and being in contact with the guide member towards the detector but returns the medicines which are not being in contact with the guide member to the central portion side of the rotary container by overpassing the guide member. |
| US09038814B2 |
Grain saver catch for an agricultural combine
An agricultural combine unloader assembly includes an unloader tube having an internal passage in fluid communication with a discharge outlet at an end of the unloader tube. A door is mounted adjacent the discharge outlet for covering the discharge outlet. The door is moveable between an open position uncovering the discharge outlet and a closed position at least partially covering the discharge outlet. In the open position, the door is positioned below a flow path of grain to be discharged through the discharge outlet. A catch is mounted adjacent the door. The catch includes a housing having an open end adjacent a first end of the door and a closed end adjacent a second end of the door opposite the first end. The catch is operatively connected to the door and movable between a first position and a second position. |
| US09038812B2 |
Egg chain gripper actuating device and egg transfer device
An egg chain gripper actuating device for use with an egg transfer device. The device has an egg conveyor with parallel egg chains movable in a transport direction, each chain supporting egg grippers, which can be individually actuated. The device further comprises an egg receiving unit with a receiving area for receiving eggs released by the egg grippers, and one group of one or more actuators for each egg chain for selectively actuating passing egg grippers. Multiple support frames are provided, each supporting one or more groups of actuators. At least one frame is adjustable parallel to the transport direction and relative to another frame, such that the position of the actuators of the one or more groups supported by the frame can be adjusted relative to the position of the one of more actuators of the one or more groups supported by the other frame. |
| US09038809B2 |
Sortation conveyor with piezoelectric actuation
A sortation conveyor for transporting and diverting a plurality of articles includes a first conveying path and a second conveying path angularly positioned relative to the first conveying path. A plurality of pusher elements may be selectively diverted laterally across the first conveying path to divert articles to the second conveying path. A piezoelectric actuated switch assembly positioned adjacent to the second conveying path selectively engages the pusher elements to divert the selected article to the second conveying path. |
| US09038807B2 |
Motor vehicle assembly line
An assembly line, wherein at least one operating branch of fixed length accommodates a number of platforms aligned with one another and with a given travelling direction; each platform being designed to receive a respective vehicle body, feed it in the travelling direction, and subject it to a succession of n assembly operations along the operating branch; each platform being designed for connection to at least one longitudinal extension to assume a total length, which depends on the length of the body carried, and ranges between a minimum length equal to the length of the platform with no extension, and a maximum length; and the length of the operating branch being equal to n times the maximum length. |
| US09038806B2 |
Truss device and an escalator or moving walk
The present invention provides a truss device for an escalator or moving walk comprising an outer panel and an inner panel facing the outer panel, characterized in that, the inner panel is formed from a single integral panel and comprises a body part and a plurality of connection parts extending from the body part toward the outer panel thus forming corresponding through openings in the inner panel, each connection part is connected to the outer panel so that the outer panel and the inner panel are fixed together, wherein the inner panel further comprises a support part formed on the body part of the inner panel and projecting in a direction away from the outer panel. The present invention also provides an escalator or moving walk having the above truss device. |
| US09038805B2 |
Self-service kiosk validator bridge
Apparatus and methods for a self-service kiosk (“SSK”) validator bridge are provided. The SSK may include a bridge linking a dispenser and a validator. The bridge may be configured to transfer a tangible item from the validator to the dispenser. The validator may examine the tangible item prior to a dispensing of the tangible item to a SSK customer. The tangible item may be retracted by the dispenser. The bridge may transfer the tangible item from the dispenser to the validator. The SSK may include an acceptor. The bridge may link the acceptor to the validator. The bridge may be configured to transfer a deposit from the acceptor to the validator. The validator may examine the deposit. |
| US09038797B2 |
Switchable coupling
A switchable coupling with a coupling system between a driving element and an output element is provided. The switchable coupling includes an actuator, an elastic actuating element and a switching element movable between starting, central and end positions. In the central position the switchable coupling has a different state (open or closed) than in the starting position. The switchable coupling further includes a bolt constrained between first and second bolt stops. Axial movement of the switching element causes operative surfaces connected to the switching element or the bolt to engage with elements on other of the switching element and the bolt, such that the bolt rotates relative to the switching element. The bolt alternately moves relative to the switching element into a first relative position blocking switching element movement in the central position, and into a second relative position permitting movement of the switching element toward the starting position. |
| US09038793B2 |
Centrifugal pendulum device
Centrifugal pendulum device including pendulum masses arranged on axial sides of a pendulum mass support rotatable about an axis of rotation to form a pendulum mass pair. To form the mass pair, the masses are fastened to each other by means of a fastener passing through a cutout in the mass support. The mass pair is pivotable relative to the mass support due to a rolling element arranged to roll in a recess of the mass support and of the mass. In a section axially covering the recess of the mass support, the rolling element has a first outer diameter. In a section axially covering the recess of the pendulum mass, the rolling element has a second outer diameter. The rolling element further comprises a section axially located between the first and second diameters and has a third diameter, which is smaller than or equal to the first outer diameter. |
| US09038791B2 |
Compression isolator for a suspension damper
A method and apparatus for a damper. The damper comprises a fluid chamber having a piston dividing the chamber into a compression and rebound sides, a reservoir in fluid communication with the compression side of the chamber, and an isolator disposed between the compression side and the reservoir, whereby the isolator obstructs fluid flow between the compression side and the reservoir. In one embodiment, a bypass provides a fluid path between the compression side and the isolator. |
| US09038788B2 |
Disc brake having a latch for locking the conversion cartridge by means of a latch
A disc brake comprising a floating stirrup and a brake piston controlled via a motion conversion cartridge (200) comprising a rear part pressed against the bottom of the stirrup and a control shaft passing through the bottom. The front part of the cartridge is pressed against the brake piston. It comprises a piston (240) provided with a plate (242) cooperating with the plate (212) of the control shaft (210) with the interposition of balls cooperating with tracks in the form of ramps for transforming the relative rotational motion of the plate (212) relative to the other (242) into a translational motion of the piston (240). The cartridge (200) is held in place in its housing (113) by a cage (260) attached elastically to the wall of the housing. The plate of the piston (240) comprises longitudinal grooves (243) receiving the branches (233) of a lock (230) which is elsewhere blocked in rotation in the housing of the stirrup while leaving the conversion piston (240) free in translation. |
| US09038786B2 |
Multifunctional castor
A multifunctional castor with steering, directional and brake functions and is provided with a mounting seat, a rotary seat, an engaging member, a wheel, a brake swing member, a longitudinal rod assembly, an engaging assembly, a transverse rod, a brake pedal and a brake-release pedal. Pressing down or pushing up the brake pedal can activate the steering, direction and brake functions of the castor, and then the steering, direction and brake functions of the castor can be deactivated by controlling the brake-release pedal. |
| US09038784B2 |
Wearing indicator
A wear indicator comprising: (a) a connector that attaches the wear indicator to a brake pad, the brake pad including a friction material having a plane; (b) a scraper; and (c) an indicator portion; wherein the indicator portion forms a cantilever connection with the scraper and extends parallel to the plane of the friction portion. |
| US09038781B2 |
Elevator and arrangement for emergency stopping an elevator car
An elevator may include an elevator car, a set of hoisting ropes, a hoisting machine, a traction sheave, and a brake. The elevator car may be suspended on the hoisting ropes. The hoisting machine may drive the traction sheave to move the elevator car using the hoisting ropes. The brake may include a brake wheel and brake shoes. The brake may exert an effect on rotation of the traction sheave. During braking, the effect of the brake on the rotation of the traction sheave may depend on a direction of rotation of the traction sheave. The effect of the brake on the rotation of the traction sheave may be greater when the direction of rotation of the traction sheave during braking corresponds to the elevator car moving downward than when the direction of rotation of the traction sheave during braking corresponds to the elevator car moving upward. |
| US09038775B2 |
Ladderway system for underground raises
An improved ladderway system 30 for an underground raise. The system comprises an elongate tube 32 made of a suitably rigid plastics material and adapted to be received in the raise. The tube has a series of steps 34 moulded into an interior side wall thereof so as to form a ladder extending substantially the full length of the tube 32. |
| US09038768B2 |
Sound absorbing body and printing device
A printing device includes a case, a printing unit arranged inside the case, and a sound absorbing body arranged inside the case. The sound absorbing body has parts with different densities including a dense part with a higher density and a non-dense part with a lower density. The non-dense part includes a fibrillated part that is fibrillated into fiber form, and an unfibrillated part that is not fibrillated into fiber form. |
| US09038766B2 |
Broadband flex joint isolator for acoustic tools
An acoustic attenuator assembly for an acoustic tool for performing acoustic investigation of a subterranean formation is disclosed. The acoustic attenuator assembly includes a first end portion (205) and a second end portion (210) having a bore therethough to enable passage of an electrical line. The acoustic attenuator assembly further includes a fiber portion (230) disposed between the first and second end portion so that the fiber portion attenuates at least a portion of acoustic energy when the acoustic energy is received by one or both of the first (205) and second (210) end portions. The fiber portion (230) includes a continuous flexible portion that allows relative deflection of the first (205) and second (210) end portions. |
| US09038765B2 |
Neutrally-buoyant borehole investigation tools and methods
Neutrally-buoyant tools for seismic data collection are provided that may range from several hundred meters to several kilometers in length and have integrated sensors which move along with the borehole fluid in response to a passing seismic wave. The disclosure also provides methods of deploying neutrally-buoyant tools, which includes using a tractor, adding a weight or both to the tool in order to overcome the difficulty of lowering a neutrally buoyant tool into a borehole, and optionally occasionally clamping the tool to the borehole to alleviate tension in the tool. This disclosure also provides methods of acquiring seismic data, which involves positioning a neutrally-buoyant tool in a borehole such that the tool is able to move relatively freely along with the borehole fluid in response to a seismic wave passing through the fluid, firing a seismic source, and using the sensors to collect seismic data generated thereby. |
| US09038764B2 |
Electrical power steering apparatus
A motor control circuit includes a power relay, a converter division, a smoothing condenser, a control circuit and a motor drive circuit, and is connected to a battery as high voltage power and to an electrical motor. The battery is connected with a driving battery having the high voltage such as 288V etc. A step down circuit reduces the high voltage to a low voltage such as 36V etc., charges a low voltage charge device and supplies drive power to the motor drive circuit. When the vehicle collision is occurred, the control circuit detects the collision by a value of detected acceleration, a power change relay is turned on to change to the power source from the low voltage charge device after voltage of the smoothing condenser is reduced, thereby connecting the low voltage to the motor drive circuit. |
| US09038763B2 |
Hydraulic power steering system
A hydraulic power steering system includes: a hydraulic cylinder in which an interior is partitioned into first and second hydraulic chambers by a piston on a steered shaft; a variable displacement electric pump that supplies hydraulic fluid to the hydraulic cylinder; a selector valve selectively set in a mode in which the hydraulic fluid is supplied to the first hydraulic chamber and drained from the second hydraulic chamber or in a mode in which the hydraulic fluid is supplied to the second hydraulic chamber and drained from the first hydraulic chamber; a detector that detects torque, steering angle, and/or vehicle speed; and a controller. |
| US09038762B2 |
Hydraulic steering
The invention concerns a hydraulic steering (1) with a steering motor (8), a steering unit (2) with feedback behavior, a steering member activating the steering unit (2) and a shock valve arrangement (50) between the steering motor (8) and the steering unit (2). It is endeavored to enable changes of the feedback behavior in a simple manner. For this purpose it is ensured that a switchable feedback suppression device (9) is located at the side of the shock valve arrangement (50) facing away from the steering motor (8). |
| US09038755B2 |
Agricultural vehicle
An agricultural vehicle comprises front and rear axle assemblies supported in mutually spaced relation by one or more vehicle frame members that also support a drive train comprising: a) one or more air compressors; b) one or more fuel sources; c) a fuel cell comprising one or more fuel cell modules; and d) one or more electric motors, that are operatively connected together. The air compressor feeds air to the fuel cell, the or each fuel source feeds fuel to the fuel cell and the electric motors are connected or connectable to the fuel cell such that electrical power generated during operation of the fuel cell causes activation of one or more of the motors to power the vehicle. |
| US09038746B2 |
Method for determining wellbore position using seismic sources and seismic receivers
A method for determining position of a wellbore in the Earth's subsurface includes actuating a plurality of seismic energy sources each disposed at a known geodetic position. Seismic energy from the sources is detected at a selected location along the wellbore. The geodetic position at the selected location is determined from the detected seismic energy. A corresponding method includes actuating a seismic energy source at a selected position within the wellbore. The seismic energy is detected at a plurality of known geodetic positions. The geodetic position of the source is determined from the detected seismic energy. |
| US09038742B2 |
Suppressant actuator
An exemplary suppressant actuator assembly includes a release member movable from a first position that restricts flow of a suppressant to a second position that permits flow of a suppressant. A biasing member moves from a more-biased position to a less-biased position to move the release member from the first position to the second position. A solenoid is activated to permit movement of the biasing member. |
| US09038734B1 |
Underwater oil and gas leak containment systems and methods
A system and method are disclosed for containing an underwater gas or oil leak. The system and method may include a vortex device comprising a vortex chamber, a high pressure inlet tangentially engaging the vortex chamber, a low pressure inlet axially engaging the vortex chamber, and a low pressure outlet axially engaging the vortex chamber opposite the low pressure inlet. The vortex device may be positioned underwater proximate an underwater leak. A vortex may be generated within the vortex device. The vortex device may then collect a leak flow issuing from the underwater leak. The vortex device may collect the leak flow via the low pressure inlet, the high pressure inlet, or both. |
| US09038733B2 |
Tubulars storage and handling system
A hydrocarbon drilling tubulars storage and handling system, said system comprising: —first and second rotary storage racks, each rotary storage rack being rotatable about a vertical axis and having storage slots for storage of multiple tubulars in each rotary storage rack in vertical orientation, the first and second rotary storage rack each including a drive to rotate the storage rack about its vertical axis, —a tubulars racking device positioned between the first and second rotary storage racks, said racking device including a rotary structure that is rotatable about a vertical axis and a drive to rotate the rotary column structure about said vertical axis, the rotary structure supporting at a first side thereof a first tubular racker assembly and at a second side thereof a second tubular racker assembly, each tubular racker assembly including one or more one gripping members adapted to grip a tubular. |
| US09038731B2 |
Workover riser compensator system
A tensioning apparatus for applying a substantially constant tension to a workover riser (12) includes a first portion (40) adapted to be coupled to a workover riser, a second portion (44) adapted to be coupled to a marine riser (14) and tensioning means (46) for providing relative movement between the first portion and the second portion to, in use, tension the workover riser. |
| US09038729B2 |
Adaptor flange for rotary control device
An adapter assembly having a sealing element, a drive bushing, and an adapter flange disposed between the sealing element and the drive bushing. Also, a method of assembling a rotational control device that includes coupling mechanically an adapter flange to a sealing element, coupling mechanically the adapter flange to a drive bushing, and installing the adapter flange, sealing element, and drive bushing in the rotational control device. |
| US09038727B2 |
Blowout preventor actuation tool
A tool for actuating a blow out preventer includes one or more connections for receiving hydraulic power from a remotely operated vehicle (“ROV”), a first pump for increasing pressure of an operating fluid for the blowout preventer (“BOP”), a second pump for increasing flow rate of the operating fluid, and a conductor for transporting the operating fluid to the BOP. The tool rapidly increases the pressure and flow rate of the fluid flowing to the BOP, and the BOP may be rapidly closed. |
| US09038726B2 |
Light well intervention umbilical and flying lead management system and related methods
Systems and methods for managing umbilical lines and one or more jumpers are provided. An example of a system includes a deployment platform carrying a winch and spool assembly, a tether management assembly, and an integrated electrical and/or hydraulic umbilical line extending between a spool on the winch and spool assembly and the tether management assembly. The winch and spool assembly is configured to deploy and to support the umbilical line. The tether management assembly includes a winch and spool assembly for deploying a flying lead and/or annulus jumper adapted to connect to an emergency disconnect package of a well control package for a well. A set of buoyant modules are connected to or integral with a portion of the umbilical line to be used to form an artificial heave compensation loop. |
| US09038725B2 |
Method and system for servicing a wellbore
A method of servicing a wellbore that includes, transporting a fluid treatment system to a wellsite, accessing a water source proximate to the wellsite, introducing a water stream from the water source into the fluid treatment system, irradiating at least a portion of the water stream within the fluid treatment system, forming a wellbore servicing fluid from the irradiated water stream, and placing the wellbore servicing fluid into the wellbore. The portion of the water stream is irradiating by exposing the portion of water stream to ultraviolet light emitted from at least one pulsed ultraviolet lamp. |
| US09038724B2 |
Oxygen scavenger compositions for completion brines
An oxygen scavenger for completion brines effective and stable in high temperature subterranean formations. In one embodiment, the scavenger contains erythorbate and alkylhydroxlyamine. |
| US09038719B2 |
Reconfigurable cement composition, articles made therefrom and method of use
A pourable aqueous cement composition is disclosed. The cement composition comprises a hydraulic cement, water and a selectively removable material comprising a plurality of selectively corrodible metal powder particles dispersed within the cement or a nanomatrix powder compact, or a combination thereof. An article, including a downhole article, and more particularly a reconfigurable downhole article is disclosed. The article includes a hydraulic cement, wherein the hydraulic cement has at least partially set into a permanent form. The article also includes a selectively removable material dispersed within the cement, the selectively removable material comprising a plurality of selectively corrodible metal powder particles dispersed within the cement or a nanomatrix powder compact, or a combination thereof, wherein the selectively removable material is configured for removal in response to a predetermined wellbore condition. |
| US09038716B2 |
Fluid control modules for use with downhole tools
Downhole tool fluid flow control apparatus including a first fluid valve between a first portion of a first flowline and a second portion of a second flowline. The first and second flowlines are adjacent each other. A second fluid valve is between a second portion of the first flowline and a first portion of the second flowline. The first and second fluid valves are controllable to cause fluid flow between the first portion of the first flowline and the second portion of the second flowline or between the first portion of the second flowline and the second portion of the first flowline. |
| US09038714B2 |
Dump bailer
A dump bailer for downhole placement of flowable materials in a wellbore. The dump bailer has an elongated housing with a cavity for placement of the flowable materials. The housing has an open bottom. An expendable cap or plug, of a magnetic material, is held within the open bottom by a shear pin, sufficient to hold the plug in place with the material within the cavity. An electric solenoid surrounds the plug. Energizing the solenoid coil by electric current creates a magnetic field which overcomes the shear pin and forces the plug out of the open bottom. The material may then flow out of the cavity. Alternatively, a sliding sleeve may be disposed in the open bottom, which moves from a first closed position to a second open position, in response to the magnetic field. |
| US09038712B1 |
Tubular lifting apparatus
A wellbore tubular lift safety system and tubular lifting apparatus for removing tubulars can include a lower section with a lower base plate hole, sliding rods, and a lower gripping member. An upper section can have an upper base plate hole, a saw mounting plate hole, an upper gripping member, and cylinder barrels. The sliding rods can be engaged within the cylinder barrels, and can be moved therein for extending and retracting the upper section. The apparatus can be positioned over the wellbore in a retracted position to align with the tubular. The tubular can be lifted out of the wellbore by gripping the tubular using the gripping members, and extending and retracting the upper section. The apparatus can form lifting holes in the tubular, install lifting members in the lifting holes, saw the tubular, and allow the cut tubular to be lifted via a hoist. |
| US09038708B1 |
Foundry mixture and related methods for casting and cleaning cast metal parts
A foundry mixture for making molds used for molding cast metal parts includes foundry sand, a non-aqueous binder, and a cleaning agent that includes calcium oxide. Residual foundry mixture remaining on the cast part after removal from the mold is removed by electrolytic cleaning of the cast part. |
| US09038703B2 |
Production of die cast rotors with copper bars for electric motors
A rotor core for an electric motor includes a stack of laminations having peripherally spaced openings receiving copper bars with opposite end portions projecting from the stack. The core is mounted on an arbor and is inserted into a mold on a vertical die cast press having a shot chamber. The mold has upper and lower mold members defining annular cavities receiving end portions of the bars. Molten copper or aluminum is poured into the shot chamber and forced upwardly by a shot piston through passages in the lower mold member and into the cavity around the lower end portions of the bars. The pressurized molten metal solidifies and shrinks around the bar end portions to form an endring for the rotor. The core, endring and arbor are inverted and confined in the mold, and the casting steps are repeated to form the opposite endring. |
| US09038701B2 |
Systems and methods for producing a hardwearing alloy material
Described herein are systems and methods for producing a hardwearing or wear-resistant material. In one aspect, a first group of materials comprising zirconium dioxide (ZrO2), aluminum oxide (Al2O3), and one or both of calcium oxide (CaO) and yttrium oxide (Y2O3) may be mixed, heated, and cooled to yield a first mixture. The first mixture may be used to generate granules that may then be mixed with a second group of materials comprising iron, nickel, manganese, titanium, carbon, chromium, and optionally, a paraffin, to yield a second mixture. The second mixture may then be compressed, cast, cooled, and heat treated to yield the hardwearing or wear-resistant material. |
| US09038697B2 |
Electric curtain opening and closing device and curtain opening and closing method using the same
An electric curtain opening and closing device includes a curtail rail and a movable body arranged in the curtail rail. The curtain rail has a hollow portion that is hollow extending in a longitudinal direction, and an opening opened in the longitudinal direction on its bottom face. Power supply patterns for supplying electricity are arranged inside left and right side faces that constitute the hollow portion in the longitudinal direction. The movable body has electrodes in contact with the respective power supply patterns, an electric motor receiving electricity through these electrodes to positively or negatively rotate, and a hanging portion for hanging a curtain. The movable body is driven to move by the electric motor. When the movable body is arranged in the hollow portion of the curtain rail, the hanging portion protrudes from the opening of the curtain rail. |
| US09038696B2 |
Blind adjuster
A mechanism for controlling adjustment of a blind or the like, the mechanism including, a fixable member which in use is fixed in position relative to the blind, a rotatable member located proximate the fixable member being rotatable relative to the fixable member about an axis of rotation to adjust the blind, an elongate member a proximal end of which is located proximate the rotatable member, the elongate member having a longitudinal axis that intersects the axis of rotation, and a continuous pull element which interacts with the rotatable member, the pull element is movable relative to the fixable member to rotate the rotatable member, the pull element is arranged relative to the elongate member extending from the rotatable member towards a distal end of the elongate member and back towards the rotatable member so as to limit movement of the pull element in a direction substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the elongate member. |
| US09038694B2 |
Sun shader apparatus
A sun shading apparatus includes a supporting frame, a shading frame and a shading fabric. The supporting frame includes first and second leg frames, and a supporting bar extended between the first and the second leg frames, while the second leg frame has third and fourth mounting slots. The shading frame includes first and second coupling joints each having a V-shaped cross section, first and second frame members, and a reinforcing frame, wherein the supporting bar is extended between the first and second coupling joints. The first and the second frame member are coupled with the first coupling joint and the second coupling joint respectively, while the reinforcing frame is extended between the first and second frame member and the supporting bar to form a support platform. The shading fabric is detachably mounted on the support platform for shading adverse weather condition. |
| US09038693B2 |
Barrier systems and associated methods, including vapor and/or barrier systems with manual egress
Barrier systems and associated methods, including vapor and/or fire barrier systems, are disclosed herein. One aspect of the invention is directed toward a barrier system that includes a barrier coupled to a spool, and a drive system. The barrier is positioned to be wound onto and off of the spool as the barrier moves between a deployed position and a retracted position by the drive assembly. The system further includes a clutch configured to resist movement of the barrier system unless directed by the drive system, and to release the barrier to allow manual egress when power to the drive system fails. The system further includes a latch configured to retain the barrier in a retracted position and to prevent the barrier from deploying when power fails and the clutch releases. |
| US09038690B1 |
Universal heat press machine
A universal heat press machine includes an adjustable supporting frame having, a main body, an actuating handle assembly, and a heat pressing assembly. The heat press assembly includes a first pressing member attaching on the actuating handle assembly, and a second pressing member suspendedly extending from a lower portion of the main body to define an operational space. When the heat pressing assembly is in a heat press position, an imprinting surface of the work piece is arranged to rest on the second pressing member while other parts of the work piece is allowed to temporarily accommodate in the operational space. The first pressing member is pivotally moved to bias against the second pressing member and the imprinting surface of the work piece for imprinting the graphics on the imprinting surface. |
| US09038688B2 |
System and method for making tapered looped suture
An active anvil assembly for use in forming a looped suture is provided. The active anvil assembly includes an anvil member, a first sensor operably connected to the anvil member, and a control assembly. The first sensor is configured for measuring at least one of force, torque, and distance feedback. Also provided are systems and methods for forming a looped suture including an active anvil assembly. |
| US09038686B2 |
Positioning system of sectors of a device for producing an airplane fuselage
Positioning system of sectors of a device for producing an airplane fuselage in which a lamination mandrel comprises a plurality of sectors borne by a supporting structure and mobile along guides between: an expanded lamination position and a contracted disassembling position. Each guide comprises a fixed part borne by the supporting structure and a mobile part sliding along/with respect to the fixed part in a rectilinear direction H. Between a portion of each mobile part facing towards the respective sector and a stiffening structure of the sector a positioning device is provided which allows adjustment of the position of the sector with respect to the guide in two directions which lie in a plane RP perpendicular to the axis H of the guide. |
| US09038680B2 |
Pneumatic tire
A pneumatic tire includes first and second side members at first and second sides and a tread section between the first and second side members. The tread section has a tread pattern including a pair of main grooves extending linearly in a circumferential direction of the tire and a land section extending in the circumferential direction between the main grooves. The land section includes a sub groove extending in the circumferential direction without connecting to the main grooves, and a first sipe connecting between the sub groove and one of the main grooves. The sub groove includes a first groove section extending diagonally toward the first side at 0 to 30 degrees with respect to the circumferential direction and a second groove section connecting to the first groove section and extending diagonally toward the second side at 10 to 45 degrees with respect to the circumferential direction. |
| US09038679B2 |
Protective bag for handbag
A protective bag, such as for a handbag, has configurable dimensions so that the protective bag can be conformed to the shape and size of the handbag. The width, depth, height and silhouette of the protective bag can be separately configured. The protective bag may have a rim that can be independently configured. Accessory pockets and removable carriers such as a shoulder strap or a pair of handles may be part of the protective bag. |
| US09038675B2 |
Cylinder-piston unit suitable for storing injection solutions for a needle-free injector and method for the bubble-free automatic or manual filling of the cylinder-piston unit, also under atmospheric pressure
A pressure-stable cylinder/piston unit which blocks water vapor and oxygen and is designed for a needle-free injector, with a chamber arranged in a cylinder, which blocks water vapor and oxygen, and designed for long-term and sterile storage of an injection solution, an end wall with at least one nozzle bore or one outlet element, a pressure-stable outer cylinder, and a pressure-stable piston arranged movably in the chamber and blocking water vapor and oxygen. Methods for bubble-free, automatic or manual filling of the cylinder/piston unit, also at atmospheric pressure are also disclosed. |
| US09038668B2 |
Accumulator assembly
An accumulator assembly is includes a piston located within a pressure canister. The pressure canister has a piston stop therein. The piston stop is located radially outboard of a biasing member or spring located within the pressure canister between the pressure canister and the piston. A support bracket is disposed on an end of the pressure canister in alignment with the spring. The outboard piston stop and the support bracket reduce the stresses due to reaction forces when the accumulator assembly is fully charged. By reducing the stresses due to reaction forces, the accumulator assembly can be made from steel casting or plastic molding without sacrificing the charge capacity of the accumulator assembly. |
| US09038657B2 |
Fuel supply system having a recirculation loop capable of returnless operation
According to the present disclosure, a fuel supply system having a recirculation loop is provided. The fuel supply system comprises a fuel tank; a return line coupled fluidly to the fuel tank; a fuel manifold; and a recirculation loop, wherein the return line is coupled fluidly to the recirculation loop at a first node to return fuel from the recirculation loop to the fuel tank, and the recirculation loop comprises a heat exchanger positioned downstream of the fuel manifold and upstream of the first node. The recirculation loop may comprise an orifice positioned upstream of the heat exchanger and downstream of the fuel manifold. Additionally, the fuel supply system may further comprise a supply line coupled fluidly to the fuel tank and further coupled fluidly to the recirculation loop at a second node positioned upstream of the fuel manifold and downstream of the first node. |
| US09038652B1 |
Inflatable device
An inflatable device is provided, comprising a carcass and an internal air intake mechanism assembly. The carcass defines a surface of the device and surrounds an inner volume of the device, and has an opening. The internal air intake mechanism assembly comprises a primary one way valve mechanism joined to the carcass to cover the opening. The primary one way valve mechanism extends into the inner volume and is configured for enabling air to be directed into inner volume from an environment external to the carcass, while preventing or limiting air flow from the inner to the external environment. |
| US09038650B2 |
Calibration of a chemical dispense system
In one implementation, a method for providing a fluid at a target pressure may include providing a fluid at a velocity to a supply line through a dispenser, measuring a pressure of the fluid flowing through the supply line, comparing the measured pressure with the target pressure, and adjusting the velocity based on the results of the comparison. |
| US09038649B2 |
Flow control device and flow control method
Disclosed herein is an improved method for reversed flow through a self-adjustable (autonomous) valve or flow control device (2), comprising the step of providing an overpressure on the side of the valve (2) opposite of the side of the inlet (10) exceeding a predetermined biasing force of the resilient member (24) causing lifting of the inner body part (4a) within the outer body part (4b) against said biasing force from a first position of fluid flow between an inner and an outer side of the valve (2) via the flow path (11) and to a second position of reversed fluid flow between said inner and outer side through the second flow path (25). An improved self-adjustable (autonomous) valve or flow control device (2) and use of said improved valve or flow control device are also disclosed. |
| US09038642B2 |
Electronic cigarette
An electronic cigarette is provided, comprising a cigarette rod (100) with smoke liquid and a battery, a cigarette holder (200) and a atomizer (300), the cigarette rod (100), the atomizer (300) and the cigarette holder (200) are connected successively, the battery provides power for the atomizer (300) to heat and atomize the smoke liquid, the atomized smoke liquid is discharged through the cigarette holder (200), wherein, a pressure-regulating valve component (400) is provided between the cigarette rod (100) and the atomizer (300) to adjust the flow of the smoke liquid, the pressure-regulating valve component is installed between the cigarette rod and the atomizer to control the flow of the smoke liquid of the electronic cigarette, enabling to adjust the amount of atomizing smoke liquid inhaled by user, and thus the taste of smoking can be adjusted to satisfy different users' need, and the tobacco bar inflows from the battery and control panel can be prevented to extend the life of the electronic cigarette. |
| US09038640B2 |
System and method for fractional treatment of skin
A system and method for treatment of skin including a treatment surface having numerous small energy emitting points for fractional skin treatment as well as negative pressure outlets. During a treatment, negative pressure from the outlets may exert a pulling force on an opposing tissue surface to bring the tissue into contact with the energy points. |
| US09038639B2 |
Rod-shaped body
The invention relates to a rod-shaped body (1) comprised of one or more filaments (2) and of a non-ferromagnetic matrix material (3). The matrix material (3) surrounds the filament(s) (1) and/or adheres them to one another. The rod-shaped body is also comprised of a dopant consisting of particles that generate magnetic resonance tomographic artifacts that is introduced into the matrix material (3). Rod-shaped bodies of this type can be used to construct guide wires, catheters and other instruments to be used in minimally invasive surgical interventions. |
| US09038638B1 |
Infant protection assembly
An enclosure for protecting an infant from smothering by a parent while feeding features one or more load bearing elements supported above a significant portion of an infant's upper body half, an infant supporting bottom surface, and a removable access panel to provide access to the infants face for feeding. |
| US09038635B2 |
Ventilation mask with integrated piloted exhalation valve
The disclosure is directed to various tubing arrangements and an associated Y-connector which may be used to facilitate the operative interface of the mask to a ventilator within a ventilation system. The tubing arrangement may comprise a pair of bi-lumen tubes. One end of each of the bi-lumen tubes is fluidly connected to the mask, with the opposite end being fluidly connected to the Y-connector. The Y-connector is in turn fluidly connected to one end of either a tri-lumen tube or a quad-lumen tube also included in the tubing arrangement, the opposite end of such tri-lumen tube or quad-lumen tube being fluidly connected to the ventilator. The Y-connector is uniquely configured to fluidly connect certain lumens of the tri-lumen tube or the quad-lumen tube to dedicated, corresponding ones of the lumens included in respective ones of the bi-lumen tubes, and to further allow for the selective detachment of the tri-lumen tube or the quad-lumen tube from the bi-lumen tubes. |
| US09038634B2 |
Ventilation mask with integrated piloted exhalation valve
In accordance with the present invention, there is provided a mask for achieving positive pressure mechanical ventilation (inclusive of CPAP, ventilator support, critical care ventilation, emergency applications), and a method for a operating a ventilation system including such mask. The mask of the present invention includes a piloted exhalation valve that is used to achieve the target pressures/flows to the patient. The pilot for the valve may be pneumatic and driven from the gas supply tubing from the ventilator. The pilot may also be a preset pressure derived in the mask, a separate pneumatic line from the ventilator, or an electro-mechanical control. The mask of the present invention may further include a heat and moisture exchanger (HME) which is integrated therein. |
| US09038633B2 |
Ventilator-initiated prompt regarding high delivered tidal volume
This disclosure describes systems and methods for monitoring and evaluating ventilatory data to provide useful notifications and/or recommendations. Indeed, many clinicians may not easily identify or recognize data patterns and correlations indicative of certain patient conditions or the effectiveness of ventilatory treatment. Further, clinicians may not readily determine appropriate adjustments that may address certain patient conditions or the effectiveness of ventilatory treatment. Specifically, clinicians may not readily detect or recognize the occurrence of high-delivered VT, during various types of ventilation. According to embodiments, a ventilator may be configured to monitor and evaluate diverse ventilatory parameters to detect an occurrence of and potential causes for high-delivered VT, and may subsequently issue suitable notifications and/or recommendations. The suitable notifications and/or recommendations may further be provided in a hierarchical format such that the clinician may selectively access information regarding the high-delivered VT, and/or potential causes for the high-delivered VT. |
| US09038622B2 |
Condensate collector system for multi-poise gas furnace system
A condensate collector system includes a condensate collector box having at least one condensate outlet port, and a condensate trap fluidly connected to the at least one condensate outlet port. The condensate trap is configured and disposed to be selectively positioned in multiple drain orientations relative to the condensate collector box to accommodate multiple installation configurations of the multi-poise gas furnace. |
| US09038621B2 |
Flexible coupling of valve and control for a gas cooking appliance
A coupling for connection of a valve and a control element in a gas cooking appliance is provided. More particularly, the present invention provides a flexible coupling to connect between a control element manipulated by the user and a gas valve that regulates the flow of fuel to a gas burner. By coupling the control and valve by a flexible coupling, options are created for the relative placement of the valve and control, which increases the space available in the interior of the appliance and can increase the space available upon its control panel. |
| US09038617B1 |
Archery bow vibration dampening and balancing device
An archery bow vibration dampening and balancing device is attachable to an archery bow by means of an elongated clamp with a housing pivotably interconnected to the elongated clamp opposite the attachment point. A vibration dampening and balancing device is secured in an opening formed in the housing. |
| US09038613B2 |
Fuel rail assembly including fuel separation membrane
As one example, a fuel rail assembly for supplying pressurized fuel to a plurality of cylinders of an engine is provided. The fuel rail assembly includes a fuel rail housing defining an internal fuel rail volume having at least a first region and a second region; a fuel separation membrane element disposed within the fuel rail housing that segregates the first region from the second region. The membrane element can be configured to pass a first component of a fuel mixture such as an alcohol through the membrane element from the first region to the second region at a higher rate than a second component of the fuel mixture such as a hydrocarbon. The separated alcohol and hydrocarbon components can be provided to the engine in varying relative amounts based on operating conditions. |
| US09038609B2 |
Charge air cooler, and intake manifold including the same
An air intake manifold for an engine includes an air inlet to receive a flow of compressed charge air, and multiple runners to deliver cooled compressed charge air to corresponding combustion cylinders of the engine. A charge air cooler is arranged within the intake manifold between the air inlet and the runners, and includes a first core section and a second core section. The first and second core sections are arranged fluidly in parallel with respect to the flow of compressed charge air, so that the charge air is divided into a first portion that is substantially directed through the first core section to a first subset of the runners, and a second portion that is substantially directed through the second core section to a second subset of the runners. |
| US09038608B2 |
Internal combustion engine with intake air heating, and method for operating an internal combustion engine of said type
Embodiments for an engine system are provided. One example internal combustion engine having at least one cylinder head and at least two cylinders, in which each cylinder has at least one inlet opening for the supply of combustion air into the cylinder, comprises an intake line leading to each inlet opening, an overall intake line where the intake lines of at least two cylinders merge, such that a distributor junction point is formed, and a heating device arranged in the overall intake line which has at least one strip-like heating element, a first narrow side of a cross section of which faces toward intake combustion air flow, wherein the heating device is arranged adjacent to the distributor junction point at which the intake lines merge to form the overall intake line, a spacing between the heating device and the distributor junction point being smaller than the diameter of a cylinder. |
| US09038603B2 |
Fastening structure of fuel delivery pipe and cylinder head of internal combustion engine
A fastening structure of a fuel delivery pipe and a cylinder head of an internal combustion engine includes three or more bosses provided on each of the cylinder head and the fuel delivery pipe, and fastening portions formed by bolting the bosses on the cylinder head to the bosses on the fuel delivery pipe. The fastening portions at both end portions of the fuel delivery pipe are less rigid than one or more fastening portions in a middle between the fastening portions positioned at both end portions of the fuel delivery pipe. |
| US09038599B2 |
Fuel injection adapters and related systems and methods
A fuel injection adapter can include a primary cavity into which a primary fuel injector can be received and a secondary cavity into which a secondary fuel injector can be received. A channel can provide fluid communication between the primary and secondary cavity, and the primary cavity can be in fluid communication with an outlet of the fuel injection adapter. |
| US09038596B2 |
Method and system for pre-ignition control
Methods and systems are provided for addressing pre-ignition that may be induced in response to actions taken to mitigate a cylinder misfire. An amount of engine load limiting applied may be adjusted to reduce the likelihood pre-ignition while also addressing component over-temperature issues. By limiting an engine load while shutting off fuel in a misfiring cylinder, and while combusting a lean air-fuel mixture in the remaining cylinders, pre-ignition induced by the misfire-mitigating lean combustion conditions can be reduced. |
| US09038593B1 |
Lubricating configuration for maintaining wristpin oil pressure in a two-stroke cycle, opposed-piston engine
A lubricating configuration in a two-stroke cycle, opposed-piston engine for a piston wristpin minimizes losses in oil pressure at the wristpin as the piston approaches bottom center and reduces the required oil supply pressure to the engine. The wristpin is constructed to absorb and store oil pressure energy when oil pressure at the wristpin is high, and to release that stored energy to pressurize the oil at the wristpin when connecting rod oil pressure is low. |
| US09038589B2 |
Method for controlling a micro-hybrid system
A method of controlling a vehicle associated micro-hybrid system. The system includes a reversible rotary electrical machine that is connected to a thermal engine of a motor vehicle. The method includes: controlling a step of pre-fluxing of a rotor of the reversible rotary electrical machine when a control module receives an instruction to start the thermal engine via the reversible rotary electrical machine; measuring a speed of the rotor of the reversible rotary electrical machine; and, demanding stoppage of the pre-fluxing step when the speed of the rotor is greater than or equal to a predetermined speed threshold value. The method avoids the generation of overvoltages in an electrical distribution network formed by an onboard network of the vehicle and by an energy storage unit of the micro-hybrid system. |
| US09038582B2 |
Split-cycle, reactivity controlled compression ignition engine and method
An internal combustion engine includes a first cylinder having an intake valve in fluid communication with an intake manifold, and a second cylinder having an exhaust valve in fluid communication with an exhaust manifold. A transfer passage fluidly connects the first cylinder with the second cylinder. A first fuel injector is configured to provide a first fuel to the first cylinder, and a second fuel injector is configured to provide a second fuel to the second cylinder. The first cylinder operates, at times, to push a first air/fuel mixture through the transfer passage into the second cylinder. The second fuel injector is configured to provide at least one fuel injection plume into the first air/fuel mixture. |
| US09038575B2 |
Pilot burner system for water heaters
A tube disposed in the combustion chamber of a standing pilot type fuel-fired water heater is used to increase the overall efficiency of the water heater by improving the heat transfer from the pilot flame to the tank during standby periods by funneling the standing pilot flame upwardly through the tube in a manner concentrating the pilot flame heat against an underside portion of the bottom head of the water heater tank. To further increase water heater efficiency, the pilot burner is of a dual input type. Various pilot burner operational algorithm modes are disclosed for causing the pilot burner to operate at a high firing rate during main burner operation, and at a low firing rate during standby periods. |
| US09038570B2 |
Tube bird feeder
A tube bird feeder comprising a seed tube having a side wall and at least one feed opening in the side wall, a top ring mounted on a top marginal edge of the seed tube, a cover removably engaged with the top ring, at least one perch mounted on the seed tube proximate the feed opening, and a base member removably secured to the seed tube adjacent the bottom marginal edge, the base portion having a protrusion engaging with an aperture in the seed tube proximate the bottom marginal edge. |
| US09038568B2 |
Egg tray advancement system for an in ovo injection apparatus, and associated method
An advancement system for an in ovo injection apparatus is provided. Such an advancement system is configured to advance an egg carrier carrying a plurality of avian eggs to an injection assembly. The advancement system includes a guide assembly configured to receive the egg carrier and provide support thereto during advancement of the egg carrier. A manual advancement device slidingly engages the guide assembly such that the manual advancement device is movable along the guide assembly. The manual advancement device is capable of interacting with a trailing end of the egg carrier to advance the egg carrier to an injection position. At least one stop is positioned to interact with the manual advancement device during advancement of the egg carrier so as to prevent progression of the manual advancement device beneath the injection assembly, thereby locating the egg carrier at the injection position. An associated method is also provided. |
| US09038565B2 |
Abatement of reaction gases from gallium nitride deposition
Systems for the sustained, high-volume production of Group III-V compound semiconductor material suitable for fabrication of optic and electronic components, for use as substrates for epitaxial deposition, or for wafers. The equipment is optimized for producing Group III-N (nitrogen) compound semiconductor wafers and specifically for producing GaN wafers. The method includes reacting an amount of a gaseous Group III precursor as one reactant with an amount of a gaseous Group V component as another reactant in a reaction chamber to form the semiconductor material; removing exhaust gases including unreacted Group III precursor, unreacted Group V component and reaction byproducts; and heating the exhaust gases to a temperature sufficient to reduce condensation thereof and enhance manufacture of the semiconductor material. Advantageously, the exhaust gases are heated to sufficiently avoid condensation to facilitate sustained high volume manufacture of the semiconductor material. |
| US09038561B2 |
Planing hull for rough seas
The disclosed watercraft hull has a flat pad keel whose width tapers towards the bow and its width at the transom is 15% to 25% of the hull's width at its chines. The hull is symmetric about its centerline, has a fine entry bow, a transom, and a pair of hard chines. Between the pad keel and the chines the hull has at least one pair of generally flat panels referred to herein as longitudinal steps having approximately 0 degrees of deadrize forming planing surfaces symmetrically located about the hull centerline. The hull also includes at least one pair of ultra high deadrize panels, outboard of and adjacent to the pad keel, located symmetrically about the hull centerline, and extending therefrom to the flat planing panels above them. The ultra high deadrize panels have a minimum average deadrize of approximately 50 degrees measured along their length. Additional flat planing surface structures having approximately 0° deadrize may be installed longitudinally on the hull between the pad keel and the hard chine such that the vertical offset between any two planing surfaces along the hull's stagnation line does not exceed approximately six inches. High deadrize panels or fillet panels with deadrize angles of between about 0.20 and 35 degrees may be included in the hull outboard of and adjacent to the ultra high deadrize panels and located symmetrically about the hull centerline. The fillet panels are tapered into wedge shapes at their forward ends to blend into the adjacent ultra high deadrize and flat planing panels. |
| US09038558B2 |
Yoke damping system
A mooring system for a floating structure (1) in which a floating structure or fixed tower is provided with a turntable (80). A floating structure is moored to the turntable via at least one rigid arm (51,51′) and two tension members (41, 41′). The rigid arm is provided on one end with a ballast weight (61, 61′) and includes a damping system formed of least two separated liquid tanks (70, 70′) that are partly filled with liquids and placed at the same distance from the horizontal center line (100). The tanks (70, 70′) are fluidly connected with each other so that liquid can be exchanged between the tanks damps a swinging yaw motion of the rigid arm (51, 51′) around the vertical axis of the turntable (80). |
| US09038555B2 |
Adjustable skeg
An adjustable skeg has a body formed by sidewalls including a closed bottom or base. The sidewalls converge to form a leading edge and a trailing end. The top is generally open and the top and sidewalls define a cavity for receiving a skeg or stub. The skeg may also be of unitary construction with the lower drive unit/gear case of a boat motor. The top and bottom portions of the trailing end project rearwardly to form extensions beyond a central portion of the trailing end. A torque vane is pivotally mounted between the top and bottom extensions. The vane is pivotable to subtend a preselected angle with a respective sidewall for eliminating steering torque. A plurality of receivers is positioned on either the top or bottom extension for locking the vane in place following adjustment. The receivers are identified by respective indicia for calibrating adjustment of the torque vane. |
| US09038554B2 |
Mobile ballast device
The present invention discloses an inside mobile ballast arrangement for sailboats, said arrangement using a dense material and being preferably in a watertight/gas-tight compartment, the whole system on low friction bearings and being close to the bottom of the hull, this arrangement being able to move longitudinally from front to rear and vice versa, along the X axis, independently or simultaneously with a perpendicular displacement, i.e. from port to starboard and vice versa, along the Y axis. |
| US09038551B2 |
Waste disposal plant with modular frame and guide assembly
A waste disposal plant includes a combustion chamber (2) inside which waste laid on a combustion grate (3) is burnt. The grate permits the entrance of an adequate quantity of combustion air in the chamber through it. The combustion grate includes at least a handling group formed by fire bars or plates (7), which move alternatively one with respect to the other by advancing the waste on the grate. A handling group allows the alternate movement of the fire bars (7) which are divided in movable fire bars (7a) and fixed fire bars (7b), alternately disposed one with respect to the other, on transversal rows resting one upon the other according to a longitudinal placement with alternate steps. |
| US09038550B2 |
Grate bar for an incinerator and method for producing such a grate bar
A grate bar for an incinerator having a grate bar base body and a high temperature resistant cover plate covering the grate bar base body at least on a surface portion which in operation points to a combustion chamber. The cover plate is separated from the grate bar base body by a thermal insulating material. In the grate bar base body a cavity is inserted in a side pointing to the cover plate and/or in the cover plate in the side pointing to the grate bar base body, which cavity is at least partially filled with a ceramic fiber insulating material. The invention further relates to a method for producing such a grate bar. |
| US09038547B2 |
Pallet leader board system
The present invention provides a leader board unit for use with a four-way entry pallet, the pallet being of a type which includes a plurality of parallel transverse top boards supported by a plurality of upper support planks, the leader board unit including: a top leader board parallel to and of substantially the same length as the transverse top boards; a bottom leader board parallel to, spaced apart from, and of substantially the same length as the top leader board; a plurality of support members formed integrally with and perpendicular to the top and bottom leader boards and holding the two leader boards in their spaced-apart configuration, each support member including a protrusion for mounting a respective upper support plank, the leader boards and support members being structurally integral and formed of a plastics material. |
| US09038546B2 |
Plastic pallet
A plastic pallet described herein may have a plastic upper deck with an upper side on which goods can be stacked. Furthermore, a plurality of plastic skids are present, spaced apart from the upper deck and arranged substantially parallel to the upper deck. Plastic spacer blocks are located between the upper deck and the skids. The upper deck and the skids are manufactured as separate parts which in an assembled state are tightened together by tightening pins. The tightening pins each extend through a bore in each of the spacer blocks and corresponding holes in the upper deck and the skids. |
| US09038544B2 |
Tilt apparatus and kneeboard, lap table, or electronic device using such
A tiltable support apparatus (tilt device) for variably adjusting the height of any one of the four sides of a portable table that is optionally with an electronic device or as a pilot's kneeboard. The tilt mechanism is a flat, flexible layer that can be rolled into a rolled elevating device. An attachment system releasably attaches the tilt mechanism to the adjacent structures such as parts of the table, of an electronic device case, or of a thigh/lap attachment for a kneeboard. The attachment system further allows for attachment with variable increments of tilt possible. In one embodiment, the tiltable support apparatus is a multilayer device containing the flat, flexible layer as a middle layer securely but reversibly attached to upper and lower layers of a case. The case is easily insertable under an object to be tilted and easily stored when not in use. |
| US09038541B2 |
Railroad tie removal machine
A railroad tie removal machine for removing a railroad tie from beneath a pair of rails. The machine includes a movable frame, wherein when the frame is in a stationary location, a workspace is defined with respect to the stationary frame. A tie shear workhead and a kicker workhead are both mounted to the frame. The tie shear workhead includes two sets of shears configured and arranged to divide the tie into a center portion and two outer portions. The kicker workhead includes at least one kicker configured and arranged to outwardly kick corresponding outer portions of the cut tie from under the associated rail. |
| US09038540B2 |
Apparatus, method and system for a ballistically launched delivery device
An apparatus and method of launching and retrieving a ballistically launched delivery device. A replaceable bullet trap with an axial cavity may be inserted into a launch delivery tube. The launch delivery tube may be attached to a ballistic muzzle. A projectile may be fired from the ballistic muzzle through the delivery tube and into the axial cavity of the replaceable bullet trap. An impulse and momentum of mass of the projectile may be transferred from the projectile to the replaceable bullet trap and then to the launch delivery tube to launch the launch delivery tube from the ballistic muzzle. |
| US09038536B2 |
Silicone rubber material for soft lithography
The present invention relates to a silicone rubber like material and a printing device including a stamp layer (100;201) comprising such a material. The material is suitable for use in soft lithography as it enables stable features having dimensions in the nanometer range to be obtained on a substrate, and also allows for the accommodation onto rough and non-flat substrate surfaces. The invention also relates to methods for manufacturing the silicone rubber like material and stamp layer (100;201) and use thereof in lithographic processes. |
| US09038535B2 |
Printer and method for transferring wiring patterns to objects
A printer according to the present invention includes a transfer roll and a plurality of the printing rolls. At least one printing roll of the plurality of the printing rolls transfers ink containing a conductive material to the transfer roll. Preferably, the at least one printing roll includes a printing roll configured to transfer ink containing a conductive material to the transfer roll and a printing roll configured to transfer ink containing a conductive material to the transfer roll. |
| US09038534B2 |
Embossing media
Apparatus for embossing media, the apparatus including cutter apparatus to cut a shape in a surface layer of a multi-layer substrate to form a die. The apparatus also includes an embosser to emboss the media using the die. The cutter apparatus is arranged to provide the die to the embosser. |
| US09038531B1 |
Telescoping type cover for truck beds and the like
An enclosure assembly enabling the selective covering of an area such as the bed of a pickup truck. The assembly includes a plurality of extendable collapsible cover section interconnected by an actuation system. The actuation system enables the rear cover section of the assembly to be pivoted to a collapsed or extended position by a pivoting structure having unique cam and leverage characteristics. The entire assembly can be selectively power operated or locked into position using a clutch mechanism associated with the actuation system. The actuation system can be powered by an electric motor or by a hand crank operating through bevel gears in case of a system failure. |
| US09038530B2 |
Beverage brewing apparatus with pump dispensing system
A beverage machine for preparing and dispensing a hot beverage having a pump dispensing system. Hot water passes through a water distributor to infuse material in a filter basket. A coffee tank receives the brewed beverage and maintains it at an appropriate temperature. On demand, a pump dispensing system delivers the beverage through an outlet chamber and spout into a user's cup. The user manipulates a switch to vary the rate at which the pump dispensing system dispenses the beverage. |
| US09038528B2 |
Device for the pulsed release of an amount of fluid that is stored in a storage housing
A device for the pulsed release of an amount (3) of fluid that is stored in a storage housing (2) includes a piston (5) biased by a first spring (4) and movable within the storage housing (2) to dispense the fluid by the spring bias, when triggered by an actuator (6) to release a lock holding the piston in place (7). The lock (7) has individual catches (8) keeping the piston (5) in its pretensioned position and, when actuated by the actuator (6), releases the piston (5). |
| US09038527B2 |
Fluid pressure cylinder
In a fluid pressure cylinder, a piston is displaced in an axial direction under the action of a pressure fluid. A circular protrusion, which projects toward the piston along an axial direction of the cylinder tube, is formed on an inner end surface of a collar member constituting part of the fluid pressure cylinder, a concavity, which can be fitted externally over the circular protrusion, is formed on the piston, and an annular groove is formed on an inner circumferential edge of an end plate. By the piston coming into contact with the end plate, a pressure receiving chamber is formed between the piston and the annular groove, together with an opening of a second port on an inner side of the cylinder tube being closed to a maximum of 90%. |
| US09038521B1 |
Apparatus for creating and customizing intersecting jets with oilfield shaped charges
A geological perforating tool (gun) shape charges disposed at an angle that provides an improvement over other known embodiments by accurately securing the charges in the tool to facilitate reliable, reproducible focus of the shaped charges. Charges are disposed on metal strips fitted into slots that are precision cut at predetermined angles in a tool barrel circumference. |
| US09038520B2 |
Method of manufacturing corrugated preform using braiding process
A method of manufacturing a corrugated preform that allows a fiber volume fraction and an orientation angle to be substantially the same at a concave portion and at a convex portion when the corrugated preform is manufactured based on a braiding process. The method includes braiding a composite material corresponding to an outer diameter of a cylindrical cylinder shape, braiding the composite material by connecting a plurality of separate composite materials to one side of the braided composite material, and braiding the composite material to one side of the separate composite material corresponding to the outer diameter of the cylindrical cylinder shape. |
| US09038519B2 |
Apparatus, method, and system for orienting a saw chain link on a sprocket
Embodiments herein provide a modified pitch sprocket to provide an orientation of a saw chain link, such as a cutter link or drive link, with respect to the direction of travel of the link, as it traverses the sprocket that is different than the orientation of the link as it traverses a straight portion of the guide bar. In some embodiments, the modified pitch sprocket may orient the cutter link to provide radial extension for a depth gauge of the cutter link relative to a cutting element of the cutter link. This may facilitate shaping of the depth gauge and/or cutting element, such as by a sharpening element, as the cutter link traverses the sprocket. |
| US09038518B2 |
Automatic paper cutting device
An automatic paper cutting device, includes: a paper reel frame for supporting the paper; and a core unit, wherein the core unit comprises a paper rolling shaft which a head portion of the paper reel rolls around, and the paper rolling shaft is connected to a cutting device. The present invention simplifies the internal structure for realizing the functional requirement that the structure are simpler and the accessories are fewer, the structure of the automatic paper cutting device is simpler, the automatic paper cutting device works more stable, the paper is outputted more smoothly, and the paper of different thickness and quality is capable of being cut automatically. |
| US09038514B2 |
Fabric cutting system and method
A fabric cutting system and/or method can include a mandrel having a body and first and second legs, a centered chuck, and an offset chuck, each chuck configured to receive either one of the legs or body to rotatingly support the mandrel between the chucks. When one of the legs is inserted into the centered chuck and the mandrel body is inserted into the offset chuck, the mandrel can be rotated and the fabric mounted on the mandrel can be cut about the leg at a location beyond the end of the other leg. One of the legs can include a leg extension removable from a leg base that when removed allows the other leg to be cut beyond the end of the leg base. The fabric can be cut with a cutting laser, which may be a multi-axis laser, and/or have low power. |
| US09038513B2 |
Cutting device, method and use for cutting of a line extending from a floating vessel
Cutting device, method and use are for cutting of a line extending from a floating vessel. The cutting device is structured for placement on the vessel. The cutting device comprises: at least one guide structured for directional steering of the line past a cutting area for the line; and at least one of the following cutting-promoting devices: at least one induction coil device directed inwards toward the cutting area and structured for heating, hence weakening, of the line within the cutting area; and at least one moveable cutting knife with an opposite contact surface directed inwards toward the cutting area and also structured for cutting of the line within the cutting area. |
| US09038510B2 |
Steady rest
A steady rest for centering a rotationally symmetrical workpiece in a space comprises: two housing halves arranged at a distance from one another and connected together, a plate-shaped middle piece arranged between the two housing halves, the middle piece mounted in the housing halves by means of an actuator piston so it can be moved in an axial movement direction to the workpiece, two linear guide grooves disposed in both opposite end faces of the middle piece, with the linear guide grooves running in a cross-shaped arrangement and at an angle to the movement direction of the middle piece, two outer steady rest arms, each of which has its free ends mounted in each of the linear guide grooves of the middle piece in a movable arrangement, and a middle steady rest arm attached to the middle piece between the outer steady rest arms. |
| US09038509B1 |
Hydraulic drill steel handling apparatus
A single apparatus handles drill steel to position the drill steel pieces for tooling and repair by a lathe. Drill steel needing repair is accepted on rails of the apparatus. A drill steel piece to be repaired is moved along the rails and is moved onto hydraulic drive cylinders. The drive cylinders raise and move a first end of the drill steel piece into the lathe. Support cylinders raise to support the piece while it is being re-threaded and repaired by the lathe. The drive cylinders reverse to remove the drill steel piece from the lathe. A pivot raises to capture the drill steel piece and rotates the piece to present a second end of the piece to the lathe. The drive cylinders and support cylinders likewise present, support, and remove the second end to the lathe for re-threading and repair. A unitary frame supports the rails, the drive cylinders, the support cylinders, the lifting/rotating pivot cylinder, and the hydraulics of the apparatus. |
| US09038507B2 |
Dual pawl ratchet mechanism and reversing method
A dual-pawl ratchet wrench mechanism is disclosed having a stop mechanism for limiting over-travel of a reversing lever for selecting drive directions. The stop mechanism is formed on a disc is selectively engageable with first and second pawls to move the pawls into and out of engagement with a ratchet gear to determine a torque drive direction, the ratchet gear capable of providing torque to a working piece in the selected drive direction. The design simplifies manufacturing. Additionally, the reversing lever is assembled with the mechanism in a manner to improve sealing. |
| US09038504B2 |
Auto-shift reversing mechanism
A device that automatically actuates the reversing lever of a ratchet mechanism when the radial direction of the motor is changed. The auto-shift mechanism includes a worm gear that rotates with the motor, and a disc coupled to the worm gear that moves laterally as the worm gear rotates. Axial movement of the disc actuates a reversing lever of a ratchet mechanism by either pulling or pushing the reversing lever. A lost-motion mechanism can absorb an initial amount of torque so that the auto-shift mechanism can run its course prior to applying the torque to a fastener. |
| US09038503B2 |
Cap handling tools and methods of use
Tools (100) are provided for use in uncapping one or more of a plurality of linearly-oriented, spaced-apart tubes; each cap having a cap upper surface with a depression. The tools comprise a body (30) having first portion (40) for engagement by a user and a second portion (50) for engaging a plurality of caps. The second portion comprises a plurality of spaced-apart projections (60). Each projection is configured for releasably engaging a cap. The projection may comprise two or more spaced-apart projection elements (62,64). Optionally, the first portion is configured in a non-coplanar relationship with respect to the second portion. Methods of use are also provided. |
| US09038502B2 |
Control interface activated restraining system to secure a rider's footwear to a foot support
A restraining system is configured to secure and release a rider's footwear to a vehicle footrest in response to inputs to a control interface. The vehicle is typically a motorcycle or bicycle. In the case of a motorcycle, a rider's boot is restrained to a motorcycle foot peg by the action of a restraining device. Exemplary restraining device embodiments include an electromagnet or a mechanical latch. The control interface may be located on the motorcycle handlebar or on the rider's helmet. The rider can provide the inputs directly to the control interface. Alternatively, the inputs may be received from a wireless source. |
| US09038500B1 |
System and method for continuously variable motorized adjustment of motorcycle handlebars
An arrangement for adjusting the position of handlebars on a vehicle including a first mechanism for effecting rotation of the handlebars about a first axis in response to a first control signal; a second mechanism for effecting translation of the handlebars along a longitudinal axis in response to a second control signal; and a control system for providing the first and second control signals. In the illustrative embodiment, the inventive system includes a first support secured to the vehicle; a second support operationally coupled to the first support and adapted for rotational movement about a first axis; a first actuator for rotating the second support over an angular extent about the first axis; a third support coupled to the second support for translational movement along a second axis, the second axis being coaxial with a longitudinal axis of the third support and transverse to the first axis; a second actuator for effecting movement of the third support relative to the second support; and a control system for driving the first and second actuators. |
| US09038496B2 |
Adjusting device and control cable with adjusting device
An adjusting device is equipped with a rod and a holder disposed movably in the direction of the length of the rod at an end of the rod, and adjusts the allowance length of the inner cable coupled to the rod and (or) holder. The adjusting device is provided with a lock-discriminating member protruding from the periphery of the holder and a cover covering the periphery of the holder including the lock-discriminating member and the lock. The lock piece does not protrude from the periphery of the holder in the lock state and protrudes to the same height with the lock-discriminating member in the unlock state. |
| US09038494B2 |
Vehicle-operating apparatus
A vehicle driving apparatus where brake and acceleration functions are combined with a single stick includes: a lever moving to an acceleration position, an idle position, or a brake position as rotating forward and rearward about a shaft fixed to a vehicle body at a predetermined angle; a hand acceleration means opening an engine throttle to cause a vehicle to be accelerated; a hand brake means pushing a booster rod of a brake booster so that a brake operates to cause the vehicle to be stopped; a guide means installed on the left and right sides of the lever to prevent the lever from being shaken leftward and rightward; a hand brake locking means allowing the hand brake to be continuously applied; and a cruise control means allowing the lever to stay in the acceleration position even if the driver takes his hand off the lever. |
| US09038493B2 |
Automatic shift device for automated transmission for vehicle
An automatic shift device for an automated transmission for a vehicle includes a rotation shaft, a clutch ring, a clutch hub, a sleeve, a dog clutch portion, a shaft moving apparatus, and a control portion. The control portion includes a push force reduction control portion performing a push force reduction control reducing a push force of the sleeve that the shaft moving apparatus applies on the clutch rear teeth in response to a back and forth movement of the sleeve after the sleeve reaches an end surface of the clutch rear tooth. The control portion includes a retry control portion performing a retry control that re-applies the push force of the sleeve in response to a predetermined retry condition after the push force reduction control is performed. |
| US09038490B2 |
Tractors including automatic reset of a power takeoff circuit
A tractor includes a prime mover, a driven implement selectively engaged with the prime mover, and a switch for selectively engaging and disengaging the driven implement with the prime mover. The switch has three positions including a disengaged position, a momentary position, and an engaged position located between the disengaged position and the momentary position. The prime mover can be started with the switch in the disengaged position. The prime mover can be started with the switch in the engaged position when the switch was previously moved to the momentary position before being moved to the engaged position, such that after operation of the prime mover is stopped, the prime mover can be restarted without changing the position of the switch. |
| US09038488B2 |
Systems and methods for inline sampling
Methods and devices for inline sampling of a bulk material, such as a powder, are provided. The material's bulk density can be determined from samples drawn using methods and devices described herein. One embodiment of a method of sampling a material allows the material to flow through a sampling compartment, closes off the flow of material below the sampling compartment, builds up a column of material through the sampling compartment, shifts the sampling compartment to remove a slice of material in the column, and places the slice of material into a sample container. A device for sampling a material is provided in another embodiment. The device includes an inlet, an outlet aligned with the inlet, and a sample collector. The sample collector can include at least one through hole and be configured to move such that the at least one through hole can be moved into and out of alignment with the inlet and the outlet. |
| US09038481B2 |
Apparatus configured to detect a physical quantity of a flowing fluid, and a respective method
Apparatus configured detect a physical quantity, for example a density, of a flowing fluid, the apparatus including: a sensor body (2) configured to extend into the flowing fluid, the sensor body comprising a fiber Bragg grating (FBG) of a fiber Bragg grating sensor (3, 7, FBG), for generating a detector signal relating to vibration of at least part (2B) of the sensor body (2); and a processing unit, configured to process the detector signal, and to determine the physical quantity based on detected vibration at a mechanical eigenfrequency of the flexible part (2B) of the sensor body (2). |
| US09038474B2 |
Photoacoustic measuring apparatus
The present invention employs a photoacoustic measuring apparatus including: a laser light source; a forming unit for forming a second light beam by dividing or deforming a laser light beam; an optical member for guiding the second light beam to the surface of a subject; a probe for obtaining a photoacoustic wave generated when the subject is irradiated with the second light beam; and a buffering member that contacts the surface of the subject and transmits light, wherein the optical member overlaps areas of the second light beam having a small light intensity on the surface of the subject, the probe and the optical member are positioned on an identical side of the buffering member relative to the subject, and the optical member refracts the second light beam such that the second light beam enters the subject through the buffering member while avoiding the probe. |
| US09038468B2 |
Apparatus and method for determining a damage state of a wheel bearing
An apparatus and a method for determining a damage state of a wheel bearing (12), in which a wheel (15) with a tire (9) arranged on a rim (8) in such a manner that the wheel can be rotated on an axle, in a motor vehicle, in particular during maintenance work on the motor vehicle. In order to avoid the wheel bearing (12) being accessed unnecessarily, a sensor unit (1) which communicates with an evaluation unit and is removably fastened radially outside a screw circle (11) of the rim (8) is provided for the purpose of determining the damage state. |
| US09038465B2 |
Method of setting valid output sections of 2-axis acceleration sensor or 3-axis acceleration sensor
Disclosed herein is a method of setting valid output sections of a 3-axis acceleration sensor mounted within a tire of a vehicle, including setting an output signal of the 3-axis acceleration sensor in the z-axis direction as a reference signal, setting a specific section of the output signal in the z-axis direction as a valid section where a part of the tire where the 3-axis acceleration sensor is mounted contacts a road surface, and setting sections of output signals of the 3-axis acceleration sensor in the x-axis and y-axis directions corresponding to the valid section in the z-axis direction as valid sections in the x-axis and y-axis directions. The method sets precise valid sections applied to detect information between the tire and a ground surface so as to minimize a component of a noise section by connecting output signals in the x-axis, y-axis and z-axis directions. |
| US09038463B2 |
Electronic device, manufacturing method thereof, and electronic apparatus
An electronic device includes a base body, a functional element that is placed on the base body, and a lid body, formed from silicon, that is placed over the base body so as to cover the functional element. A hole portion and a sealing member that closes the hole portion are disposed in the lid body, in the hole portion, the area of a second opening disposed on a side opposite to a first opening is larger than the area of the first opening disposed on the base body side, and the ratio of the volume of the sealing member to the volume of the hole portion is equal to or higher than 35% and is equal to or lower than 87%. |
| US09038462B2 |
Inertial sensor control module and method for controlling inertial sensor control module
Disclosed herein is an inertial sensor control module. The inertial sensor control module according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention includes: an inertial sensor including a driving mass, a driving unit driving the driving mass of the inertial sensor according to a control signal to the inertial sensor, a control unit connected to the driving unit and generating the control signal to transfer the generated control signal to the driving unit, and a sensing unit connected between the inertial sensor and the control unit and detecting information about whether the driving mass of the inertial sensor is in a stabilized state or information about an inertial force of the inertial sensor to transfer the detected information to the outside or the control unit. |
| US09038460B2 |
Inertial unit with several detection axes
Inertial unit for the measurement of accelerations and/or rotations comprising four sensors, spread out on two intersecting axes, each sensor comprising two inertial masses, each inertial mass comprising a moveable excitation part and a moveable detection part, the moveable excitation parts of a sensor being separate from those of the other sensors, said unit also comprising means for exciting the excitation parts of the sensors and means for detecting the movement of the detection parts, the two inertial masses of each sensor) being mechanically coupled, the four sensors being coupled by elastically deformable mechanical coupling means and able to transmit the excitation vibrations from one axis to the other. |
| US09038453B2 |
Methods and apparatus to determine aircraft flight conditions
Methods and apparatus to determine aircraft flight conditions are disclosed herein. An example apparatus disclosed herein includes a gaseous packet generator to generate a gaseous packet adjacent an aircraft. The example apparatus also includes a sensor array disposed on the aircraft to acquire information related to the gaseous packet. The example apparatus further includes a processor to determine at least one of a first characteristic of air flowing along the aircraft or a second characteristic of the aircraft based on the information. |
| US09038450B2 |
Method and apparatus for characterizing fluid channeling through a cement formation interface of a subterranian wellbore
Disclosed is an apparatus and method for testing a cemented bonding with the formation under wellbore pressure conditions. The apparatus comprises a pressure chamber containing a core of formation material. The cement material to be tested is allowed to set or bond to one side of the core while formation fluids under wellbore pressure conditions are present on the other side. Leakage of formation fluids is measured to evaluate the quality of the interface between the cement and formation materials. |
| US09038449B2 |
Tire testing systems and methods
A manipulator assembly for moving and displacing a tire undergoing tire testing, including: a linear actuator for moving and displacing the tire along a local vertical z-axis; a linear actuator for moving and displacing the tire along a local lateral y-axis that is substantially perpendicular to the local vertical z-axis; a rotary actuator for cambering the tire within a local coordinate system partially defined by the local vertical z-axis and the local lateral y-axis; and a linear actuator for moving and displacing the tire along a global lateral y-axis that is substantially perpendicular to the local vertical z-axis such that the local coordinate system is moved and displaced along the global lateral y-axis. Specifically, the linear actuator for moving and displacing the tire along the global lateral y-axis moves and displaces an origin of the local coordinate system along the global lateral y-axis. |
| US09038439B2 |
Apparatus and methods for testing a honeycomb filter
Methods of testing a honeycomb filter include the step of wetting the outer peripheral surface of the honeycomb filter to enhance the flow of fog through outer peripheral channels of the honeycomb network of channels. In further examples, methods include the step of obstructing a flow of fog through inner peripheral channels to enhance the flow of fog through the outer peripheral channels of the honeycomb network of channels. In further examples, apparatus for testing a honeycomb filter include a flow diverter with a blocking member. |
| US09038438B2 |
Method and device for detecting the independent running of an internal combustion engine
A method is described for detecting the independent running and/or the start/stop of an internal combustion engine, in which parameters of the internal combustion engine characterizing the combustion process, especially pressure changes or vibrations, are evaluated for this detection. |
| US09038437B2 |
Chemical sensor having a flexible member with III/N heterojunction
The application describes methods and apparatus for chemical sensing, e.g. gas sensing, which have high sensitivity but low power operation. A sensor is described having a flexible membrane comprising a III/N heterojunction structure configured so as to form a two dimensional electron gas within said structure. A sensing material is disposed on at least part of the flexible membrane, the sensing material being sensitive to one or more target chemicals so as to undergo a change in physical properties in the presence of said one or more target chemicals. The sensing material is coupled to said heterojunction structure such that said change in physical properties of the sensing material imparts a change in stress within the heterojunction structure which modulates the resistivity of the two dimensional electron gas. |
| US09038436B2 |
Fuel cell for use in an alcohol breath tester
An improved alcohol fuel cell sensor and alcohol breath tester assembly where wires for connection to the electrodes are bent to have a generally planar base portion which may be positioned toward the center of the electrodes and an upright that then extends to the outside of the case. The uprights are generally perpendicular to the base allowing the wires to exit the housing toward the center, as opposed to toward an edge. |
| US09038435B2 |
Measurement of carbon to hydrogen ratio in hydrocarbons
The ratio of carbon to hydrogen in hydrocarbon samples is determined using gas chromatography and atomic emission detection. Comparison of the carbon to hydrogen ratio from different samples allows for qualitative determination of relative hydrogen content. Establishing a carbon to hydrogen ratio for a reference sample allows a further quantitative determination of carbon to hydrogen ratio. |
| US09038430B2 |
Cluster arm arrangement for the intermediate roll sets of 18 HS roll stands
The invention relates to a cluster arm arrangement for the intermediate roll sets of 18 HS roll stands, wherein arranged between the chock at the operating side and the chock at the drive side are cluster arms which are pivotable laterally of the intermediate roll and in which the lateral backing rolls are integrated for support of the working rolls in the stand. In that case, arranged between the chock (1) and the cluster arm (2) is a pivot pin (3), which is fixedly connected with the cluster arm and about the axis of which the cluster arm (2) is pivotable, and a locking means for the cluster arm (2) as well as an abutment (6) with a restoring spring (6) are operatively arranged on the pivot pin (3) as a compact unit in the region between the cluster arm (2) and chock (1). |
| US09038427B2 |
Lock cylinder
A lock cylinder includes a housing and first and second key plugs rotatably received in the housing about an axis. The first and second key plugs are axially spaced in the housing and each includes a keyway for insertion of a corresponding key. The keyways of the first and second key plugs are aligned with each other along the axis. The lock cylinder further includes a blocking core fixedly mounted in the housing and between the first and second key plugs along the axis. The blocking core includes a through-hole aligned with the keyways of the first and second key plugs along the axis. The lock cylinder can effectively prevent an illegal picking tool from inserting into the keyways of the first and second key plugs and from turning the key plugs, thereby providing an enhanced anti-theft effect. |
| US09038425B2 |
Washing machine comprising a laundry drum
A washing machine includes a laundry drum which is rotatably mounted inside a tub. The tub is connected in a fixed manner within a surrounding housing. The axis of rotation of the laundry drum is variable in height with respect to the tub. Elastic elements are positioned outside the tub to suspend the laundry drum together with a drive unit within the housing in an oscillating manner. The presence of a relatively high water consumption of the washing machine can be avoided and the relative position of the laundry drum with respect to the tub can be adjusted by providing a position-adjusting device, by which the height and/or the angle of the axis of rotation can be adjusted within limits, and which engages with a part that is connected in a fixed manner to the bearing for the drive shaft of the laundry drum. |
| US09038419B2 |
Method of making heat treated coated article using carbon based coating and protective film
A method of making a heat treated (HT) substantially transparent coated article to be used in shower door applications, window applications, tabletop applications, or any other suitable applications. Certain embodiments relate to a method of making a coated article including heat treating a glass substrate coated with at least layer of or including carbon (e.g., diamond-like carbon (DLC)) and an overlying protective film thereon. The protective film may be of or include both (a) an oxygen blocking or barrier layer, and (b) a release layer of or including zinc oxynitride (e.g., ZnOxNz). Following and/or during heat treatment (e.g., thermal tempering, or the like) the protective film may be entirely or partially removed. |
| US09038417B2 |
Method for producing glass substrate for magnetic disk and method for manufacturing magnetic disk
When mirror polishing is performed on a glass substrate by bringing a polishing pad into contact with the surface of the glass substrate while supplying a polishing liquid containing polishing grains to the substrate surface, the pH of the polishing liquid is maintained within a certain range or the agglomeration degree or dispersion degree of the polishing liquid is controlled. Consequently, an adequate mirror polishing rate can be maintained and there can be obtained a glass substrate having a good end shape. |
| US09038416B2 |
Glass-substrate manufacturing method
A glass-substrate manufacturing method which includes a forming step and a cooling step. In the forming step, a molten glass is formed into a sheet glass by a down-draw process. In the cooling step, the sheet glass is cooled. The cooling step includes first, second and third coating steps as defined herein. |
| US09038411B2 |
Block ice maker with mold body and method of forming fan shaped ice with mold body
An ice maker has an ice-making vessel having a cylindrical shape, a cooling means, a block ice making mold which is placed inside, and an agitator. The mold includes a main mold body having a plurality of connected L-shaped plates projected radially outward from the central axis; a base plate which is joined to each L-shaped plate, and the top side of the L-shaped plates form a screw insertion part of the mold body such that the agitator fits between the L-shaped plates at a second end of the central axis. |
| US09038410B2 |
Method and system for the continuous or semi-continuous production of flavored ice
An ice making system includes a flavored liquid, an ice machine and a refrigerated storage bin. The ice making system continuously produces flavored ice pieces for storage in an ice storage bin. A refrigeration system cools the ice storage bin. |
| US09038409B2 |
Apparatus for treating air by using porous organic-inorganic hybrid materials as an absorbent
The present disclosure provides an apparatus for treating air by using porous organic-inorganic hybrid materials as an absorbent, which comprises an inlet passage for receiving air from outside; a dehumidifying part comprising porous organic-inorganic hybrid materials as an adsorbent for removing moisture from the air receiving through the inlet passage; a regenerating unit for regenerating the adsorbent of the dehumidifying part; and an outlet passage for discharging the dehumidified air to outside. Said apparatus preferably comprises two dehumidifying parts of two-bed switching type and two switch valves, wherein said two dehumidifying parts are alternatively operated for dehumidification and for regeneration by switching said switch valves to convert direction of air flow. |
| US09038408B2 |
Wastewater effluent to geothermal heating
A wastewater geothermal heat system is supplied with processed wastewater through a drip field in proximity to a thermal array part of a geothermal heat pump system. The wastewater treatment system portion provides a periodic source of treated wastewater. Several sensors and a control system regulate a pump that discharges wastewater from the treatment system and enters a drip field where it is released into the surrounding soil. The dampened soil provides an efficient vehicle to transfer heat into or out of a thermal array which is positioned adjacent to the drip field such that it is in contact with the soil that is dampened by the discharged wastewater. |
| US09038407B2 |
Electro-hydrodynamic cooling with enhanced heat transfer surfaces
The electronic control has an electric control which incorporates circuitry which will generate heat in use. A cooling channel placed in contact with at least one surface on the electric control. The cooling channel has a portion which receives an enhanced heat transfer surface. At least one electrode pair is mounted on an inlet channel portion upstream of the portion of the channel that receives the enhanced heat transfer surface. A source of current is provided for the electrode. The electrode induces an electric field in the inlet channel, to drive a dielectric fluid across the enhanced heat transfer surfaces. |
| US09038404B2 |
High efficiency cooling system
A cooling system has a cabinet and a plurality of separate cooling stages including an upstream cooling stage and a downstream cooling stage. At least the upstream cooling state is a variable capacity cooling stage. Each cooling stage has a cooling circuit. Evaporators of the cooling circuits are arranged in the cabinet so that air passes over them in serial fashion. A controller when a Call for Cooling first reaches a point where cooling is needed, operating the upstream cooling circuit to provide cooling and not the downstream cooling circuit. When the Call for Cooling has increased to a second point, the controller additionally operates the downstream cooling circuit to provide cooling. The cooling capacity at which the upstream cooling circuit is being operated is less than its full capacity when the Call for Cooling reaches the second point. |
| US09038396B2 |
Cooling apparatus for combustor transition piece
Disclosed is an apparatus for cooling a transition piece of a combustor includes at least one wrapper disposed at the transition piece located outboard of the transition piece. At least one support boss is located between the at least one wrapper and the transition piece. The at least one support boss, the at least one wrapper, and transition piece define at least one cooling flow channel for directing flow for cooling the transition piece. A method of cooling a transition piece of a combustor includes flowing cooling flow into at least one cooling flow channel located at the transition piece, the at least one cooling flow channel defined by the transition piece, at least one wrapper located at the transition piece and located outboard of the transition piece, and at least one support boss located between the at least one wrapper and the transition piece. The cooling flow is directed via the at least one support boss and flows across an outer surface of the transition piece thereby cooling the transition piece. |
| US09038395B2 |
Combustors with quench inserts
A combustor for a turbine engine is provided. The combustor includes a first liner and a second liner forming a combustion chamber with the first liner, the combustion chamber configured to receive an air-fuel mixture for combustion therein. The first liner defining an air admission hole for directing a first jet of pressurized air into the combustion chamber, and the air admission hole may have a non-circular shape. The combustor further includes an insert positioned within the air admission hole to guide the first jet through the air admission hole and into the combustion chamber. |
| US09038393B2 |
Fuel gas cooling system for combustion basket spring clip seal support
A fuel gas cooling system for a combustion basket spring clip seal support is disclosed. The fuel gas cooling system may be formed from one or more fuel gas supply channels terminating proximate to a spring clip at the intersection between a combustor basket and a transition section such that fuel gas may be supplied to the hot gas path proximate to the intersection between the combustor basket and the transition section. The fuel gas supply channel may create an intermediate fuel gas burn at this intersection, which may reduce the firing temperature at the fuel nozzles and reduce NOx emissions. |
| US09038391B2 |
System and method for recovery of waste heat from dual heat sources
A waste heat recovery system includes a heat recovery cycle system coupled to at least two separate heat sources having different temperatures. The heat recovery cycle system is coupled to a first heat source and at least one second heat source. The heat recovery cycle system is configured to circulate a working fluid. The at least one second heat source includes a lower temperature heat source than the first heat source. The working fluid is circulatable in heat exchange relationship through a first heat exchange unit, a second heat exchange unit for heating the working fluid in the heat recovery cycle system. The first heat exchange unit is coupled to the at least one second heat source to heat at least a portion of a cooled stream of working fluid to a substantially higher temperature. |
| US09038390B1 |
Apparatuses and methods for thermodynamic energy transfer, storage and retrieval
Systems and methods for transferring and optionally storing and/or retrieving thermal energy are disclosed. The systems and methods generally include a heat engine and a heat pump, the heat engine including first isothermal and gradient heat exchange mechanisms, and the heat pump including second isothermal and gradient heat exchange mechanisms. The heat engine and the heat pump exchange heat with each other countercurrent across the first and second gradient heat exchange mechanisms, the first isothermal heat exchange mechanism transfers heat to an external heat sink, and the second isothermal heat exchange mechanism receives heat from an external heat source. |
| US09038389B2 |
Hybrid thermal cycle with independent refrigeration loop
Work is produced from heat in a continuous cycle. A flow of first working fluid is provided to a high pressure boiler to produce a flow of first working fluid vapor. A second working fluid in vaporous form is compressed, after which a third working fluid is formed by mixing the first working fluid vapor and the second working fluid. Thermal energy is transferred directly between the first and second working fluids in the mixing chamber exclusive of any intervening structure. A refrigeration loop containing a fourth working fluid extracts thermal energy from a low grade thermal energy source and moves the thermal energy to the first working fluid and/or the second working fluid. |
| US09038387B2 |
Solar thermal electricity generating systems with thermal storage
Thermal energy can be stored in a fluid-based thermal storage system for later use. The stored thermal energy may be derived from steam generated using insolation in a steam-based solar power system. The thermal storage system can store energy when insolation is generally available. Alternatively or additionally, the thermal energy may be derived from electricity from the electrical grid. For example, the thermal energy can store energy when the electrical grid has excess electricity available for storage. At a later time, the energy stored in the thermal storage system can be released to heat pressurized water or steam in addition to or in place of steam generated by the insolation. For example, the stored thermal energy may be used in preheating the solar power system during startup, in supplementing steam output of the solar power system, or to replace steam generation during low insolation periods. |
| US09038385B1 |
System for extracting energy from wind and thermal gradients
An inverted funnel-shaped columnar tower (115) includes a window region (120), a heat absorbing surface (130), an air entrance (116) and exit (117). Solar energy passes through the window region and heats the heat absorbing surface. A plurality of fans (145), each connected to a generator (150), are suspended within the tower and extract energy from convectively rising air, generating electricity. A fan (160) outside the tower intercepts wind and turns an internal fan (145′) that aids the convective flow, providing a self-starting feature. A plurality of rotors (100) with wings (705) are connected in groups to generators (725) and all are arranged adjacent the tower. The rotors intercept wind energy and deliver it to the generators for conversion to electricity. The rotors include a flap (800) that predetermines the direction of rotation of the rotor, providing a second self-starting feature. The convection and wind capture functions operate independently. |
| US09038384B2 |
Control apparatus for internal combustion engine equipped with supercharger
A first supercharger and a second supercharger are disposed in series in intake and exhaust passages. In a B region in which both the supercharging effects of the first and second superchargers are utilized, the opening of an exhaust control valve disposed in a passage for bypassing the turbine of the first supercharger is set to an intermediate degree, and the opening of an intake control valve disposed in a passage for bypassing the compressor of the first supercharger is set to the minimum. In a C region in which the supercharging effect of only the second supercharger is utilized, both the openings of the exhaust control valve and the intake control valve are set to the maximum. When the control region shifts from B region to C region as result of acceleration of the vehicle, the fuel injection amount is reduced over a predetermined period immediately after the shift. |
| US09038383B2 |
Flywheel assembly for a turbocharger
A flywheel assembly for a turbocharger a rotatable flywheel shaft that is separate from a turbocharger shaft, and a flywheel body coupled to the flywheel shaft. A flywheel sensor determines a flywheel operating parameter and supplies a flywheel feedback signal indicative of the flywheel operating parameter, and a flywheel clutch selectively couples the flywheel shaft to the turbocharger shaft. A controller operates the flywheel clutch based on the flywheel feedback signal. The flywheel shaft and flywheel body may be disposed in a flywheel housing that is separate and spaced from a turbocharger housing. |
| US09038380B2 |
Master cylinder device
A master cylinder device includes: a first pressurizing piston including a main body portion which defines a first pressurizing chamber for pressurizing a brake fluid, and a flange portion which is formed around an outer circumference of the main body portion and in front of which there is defined an opposing chamber; and an input piston which can be shrunk by operating a brake pedal. The master cylinder device further includes an electromagnetic open/close valve for making the opposing chamber and the inter-piston chamber communicate with a reservoir, and an electromagnetic open/close valve for prohibiting the shrink of the input piston. The master cylinder device with such a structure allows a pressurization of the brake fluid depending on an operation force in a state in which the shrink of the input piston is prohibited. |
| US09038379B2 |
Method of controlling a thermal energy harvesting system
A method of controlling an energy harvesting system that converts excess thermal energy into mechanical energy and includes a Shape Memory Alloy (SMA) member, includes obtaining current operational parameters of the energy harvesting system, such as a maximum temperature, a minimum temperature and a cycle frequency of the SMA member. The current operational parameters are compared to a target operating condition of the energy harvesting system to determine if the current operational parameters are within a pre-defined range of the target operating condition. If the current operational parameters are not within the pre-defined range of the target operating condition, then a heat transfer rate to, a heat transfer rate from or a cycle frequency of the SMA member is adjusted to maintain operation of the energy harvesting system within the pre-defined range of the target operating condition to maximize efficiency of the energy harvesting system. |
| US09038372B2 |
Exhaust purification system of internal combustion engine
In an internal combustion engine, inside an engine exhaust passage, a hydrocarbon feed valve (15) and an exhaust purification catalyst (13) are arranged. The carrier (50) of the exhaust purification catalyst (13) is formed from a crystallized composite oxide of aluminum and an alkali earth metal. On this carrier (50), precious metal catalysts (51, 52) are carried. The concentration of hydrocarbons which flow into the exhaust purification catalyst (13) is made to vibrate by within a predetermined range of amplitude of a 200 ppm or more and within a predetermined range of period of 5 second or less, whereby the NOx which is contained in exhaust gas is reduced at the exhaust purification catalyst (13). |
| US09038368B2 |
Systems, methods, and apparatus for providing a multi-fuel hybrid rocket motor
Certain embodiments of the invention may include systems, methods, and apparatus for providing a multi-fuel hybrid rocket motor. According to an example embodiment of the invention, a method is provided for producing a multi-fuel hybrid motor. The method can include forming a body, where the body includes one or more intake ports; one or more exit nozzles; one or more channels connecting the one or more intake ports with the one or more exit nozzles; and a plurality of cavities comprising segment walls in communication with the one or more channels. The method also includes depositing a propellant fuel within the plurality of cavities, wherein at least a portion of the propellant fuel is exposed to the one or more channels and wherein the propellant fuel has a higher burn consumption rate than the segment walls. |
| US09038365B2 |
Thrust generator
A method, system and apparatus for generating thrust. The method, system and apparatus can include a fuel that may be accelerated into one or more openings on a rotating wheel. The rotating wheel, which may be balanced, may then have a temporary increase in mass in one location on the wheel. Additionally, the fuel that is accelerated into one or more openings in the wheel may be decelerated and may exert an outward force on the wheel. This generation of force can be repeated and increased to provide thrust. |
| US09038363B2 |
Electric de-icing device and related monitoring system
The invention relates to a de-icing device for an element of a nacelle of a turbojet engine, including at least one heating resistant mat connected to at least one electrical power source (3) and thus defining an assembly (1) of resistant mats, characterized in that the assembly of resistant mats includes one or more subassemblies of resistant mats, each subassembly in turn including one or more resistant mats of the assembly, and each subassembly of resistive mats having a different ohmic value. |
| US09038359B2 |
Rotary implement having hard metallic layer and method therefor
A rotary implement includes a metallic body that is rotatable around an axis. The metallic body includes a tapered leading edge having an interface surface and an opposite, free surface. The metallic body has a first composition. A metallic layer has a first side surface that is attached to the interface surface and a free, second side surface opposite from the first side surface. The metallic layer has a second, different composition from the first composition. A rotary machine can include an actuator and the rotary implement operably coupled to the actuator. A method for making a rotary implement includes providing the metallic body that has the tapered leading edge having the interface surface and the opposite, free surface. The metallic layer is then attached to the interface surface of the metallic body. |
| US09038357B2 |
Windguard mechanism of a pick-up for an agricultural machine
A windguard mechanism comprising a pair of arms attachable to an agricultural machine and a windguard plate extending between the pair of arms and positioned to hold down crop material processed by a pickup mechanism. The windguard plate comprises a first plate fixed between the pair of arms and a second plate positioned movably with respect to the first plate, wherein working surfaces of the first plate and of the second plate form a windguard working surface of an area independent on the position of the second plate. |
| US09038354B2 |
Machine for packaging articles inside containers
Machine (1) for packaging articles (2) inside containers (3), a conveyor (6) is provided with a longitudinally movable transporting section (7) for feeding the articles (2) in a given direction (D) and along a given conveying path (P); a robot (23), which is arranged along the conveying path (P) and controlled by an operating and control device depending on detection at least of the position of each article (2) on the transporting section (7), picks up single articles (2) from the transporting section (7) and transfers each picked-up article (2) inside a container (3); the transporting section (7) is delimited transversely by two side walls (18) stabilizing the position and direction of each article (2) with respect to the transporting section (7); on the latter the articles (2) are stably seated between the side walls (18), one behind another in a row, in the conveying direction (D). |
| US09038351B2 |
Thermally coated wall anchor and anchoring systems with in-cavity thermal breaks for cavity walls
Thermally-isolating wall anchors and reinforcement devices and anchoring systems employing the same are disclosed for use in masonry cavity walls. A thermally-isolating coating is applied to the wall anchor, which is interconnected with a wire formative veneer tie. The thermally-isolating coating is selected from a distinct grouping of materials, that are applied using a specific variety of methods, in one or more layers and cured and cross-linked to provide high-strength adhesion. The thermally-coated wall anchors provide an in-cavity thermal break that severs the thermal threads running throughout the cavity wall structure, reducing the U- and K-values of the anchoring system by thermally-isolating the metal components. |
| US09038350B2 |
One-piece dovetail veneer tie and wall anchoring system with in-cavity thermal breaks
A dovetail anchoring system for cavity walls is disclosed and includes a sheetmetal dovetail anchor and one-piece sheetmetal dovetail veneer tie. The anchoring system is used in conjunction with building structures that have a masonry outer wythe anchored to a poured masonry inner wythe. A thermally-isolating coating is optionally applied to the high-strength veneer tie, which is interconnected with the wall anchor. The thermally-isolating coating is selected from a distinct grouping of materials, that are applied using a specific variety of methods, in one or more layers and cured and cross-linked to provide high-strength adhesion. The thermally-coated veneer ties provide an in-cavity thermal break that severs the thermal threads running throughout the cavity wall structure, reducing the U- and K-values of the anchoring system by thermally-isolating the metal components. |
| US09038347B2 |
Truss and column structures incorporating natural round timbers and natural branched round timbers
Trusses comprising natural round timbers as top and bottom cords are provided. Also provided are truss and column assemblies comprising natural branched round timber columns connected to a truss. |
| US09038342B2 |
Unitary safety surface tiles and associated structures
A unitary safety surface tile is provided. The tile may interlock with at least one other tile. The tiles may be configured for disposing on a base of loose fill and for receiving a covering of loose fill. The tiles may include a plurality of hollow inverted pyramidal shaped pockets. Each of the pockets may connect to at least two other pockets along a top edge of each pocket. Each of the pockets may engage the base of loose fill and/or receive the covering of loose fill. Each of the pockets may include one or more apertures for allowing passage of fluid through each of the pockets. Each tile may further include a plurality of edges. The edges may border the plurality of pockets. Each of at least two of said plurality of edges may be adapted for engaging at least one edge of at least one other tile. |
| US09038341B2 |
Modular flooring system
A flooring system for installation over a surface that provides flooring using artificial wood panels over a plastic base formed from recycled plastics for even durable support over cement or dirt surfaces. The flooring system comprises a plurality of interlocking bases and a plurality of removable clips, wherein each clip has a pair of grippers for engaging at least one board of a plurality of boards, the base and clips supporting the boards apart from the surface and the plurality of boards connected between the grippers are capable of supporting a load of at least 300 pounds. |
| US09038338B2 |
Insulated concrete form wall having a bracket attaching a rim joist thereto
The present invention provides in one aspect for a bracket for use with insulated forms for concrete walls. The bracket has an attachment plate for overlying the exterior of the insulated form to provide for a means of attaching the header or rim joist to the bracket. The bracket is provided an anchoring plate extending from the attaching plate for insertion into the interior of the insulated form. The present invention also provides for a method of attaching a header or rim joist to a concrete wall formed using insulated forms. The method involves cutting a vertical slot in the insulated form and inserting a bracket into the slot. The bracket has an attachment plate for overlying the exterior surface of the insulated form and an anchoring plate extending from the attachment plate through the slot into the interior of the insulated form. Concrete is poured into the form and allowed to set, after which the header or rim joist is attached to the brackets. |
| US09038337B2 |
Reinforced concrete hexahedral module
The utility model discloses a monolithic reinforced concrete piece for the construction of buildings which is characterized for having six columns arrange in a hexagonal distribution, a continuous beam with variable depth supported by the columns making six spans and forming a hexagonal perimeter viewed from top, a corbel fixed along the beam's external face, and a roof which has a hexagonal shape with a circular hole in the center in plan view and cambered in the elevation view which rest on the continuous beam. In use the reinforced concrete hexahedral module can be cast-in-place or pre-cast and transported to its final position on the construction site and used as part of a building defining the space and ambience of said building. This invention has the advantage of being safe, strong and reliable, providing a fast new method of construction for different kinds of buildings. |
| US09038333B2 |
Common window frame
Disclosed is an operating-fixed-operating window with a common frame. The window frame includes a sill with a sill lock and sill tower upwardly extending from the sill. The window frame also includes a head disposed atop the window frame, at least one jamb and at least one operating window frame. The window also includes at least one fixed window frame with a sill cover disposed atop the sill, the sill cover engaged with the sill lock and the sill tower. |
| US09038330B2 |
Light weight molded roof tile with integrated solar capabilities
An improved building roof tile for a sloping roof including a polyurethane foam tile that includes outer coating layers that are made of a uniquely fire resistant or retardant layered system that includes a first outer fire resistant layer of 100% solid aliphatic polyurea material and a second inner layer of an 100% solid intumescent non-halogenated phosphate material, said inner layer forming a fire blocking partition and said outer layer offering UV protection, featherweight, category 5 hurricane proof, yields a high R-value, offer low thermal transference into attic space, will retrofit any sloped roof without structural build-up, can be molded into single or triple units, cannot break under foot or when extreme pressures are applied, can produce upgradable solar energy, is easy to transport and install and can molded to look like slate, wood, flat roll tile or most other historical tiles. |
| US09038329B2 |
Structure following roof mounted photovoltaic system
An adjustable photovoltaic panel mounting system that allows for variations in roofs and roof elements, while still maintaining a rigid and secure assembly. The specific location for supporting feet and structural elements of the mounting system may be varied to allow for variations in roof features and different panel configurations. The mounting mechanisms are adjustable in both a North/South and a East/West direction to provide for maximum layout flexibility. |
| US09038327B1 |
Seamless sheet insulation around roof structural members
A seamless sheet installation system preferably includes a seamless sheet and a plurality of sheet retention devices. The seamless sheet is retained on a tube. A pair of rotating retention devices may be inserted into ends of the roll. Each rolling retention device includes a tube plug and a rotating handle. An end of the seamless sheet is secured to the top eave flange. The seamless sheet is held against a bottom of the eave purlin web with one of the plurality of sheet retention devices. The sheet retention device may have any suitable design. The seamless sheet is rolled out to successive purlins, wrapped over the top flange and anchored to a bottom of the vertical web with one of the plurality of sheet retention devices. The seamless sheet wrapping process is terminated at an opposing eave purlin or a ridge purlin. Insulation is then inserted between adjacent purlins. |
| US09038326B2 |
Ceiling system
A ceiling system in one embodiment includes a support grid including intersecting grid support members and grid openings formed between the grid support members. A vertical baffle is positioned in a grid opening and is attached to the support grid. The baffle includes opposing front and rear faces extending between opposing lateral sides of the baffle. First and second mounting grooves formed in the baffle engage and support the baffle from the grid. In one embodiment, one of the mounting grooves is disposed in each lateral side to support the baffle from opposite sides. The baffle may further include a third mounting groove formed in the rear face which engages the support grid to help align and squarely register the baffle with respect to the grid for clean linear visuals. In one embodiment, the grid support members may have a standard T-shaped cross section. |
| US09038319B2 |
Seal member of automobile door
A seal member is provided with a retainer and a weatherstrip held by a pair of engagement parts of the retainer. The weatherstrip has a hollow shape formed by a base and a seal part. The base is configured to be inserted between the pair of engagement parts of the retainer, and the seal part is integral with the base. A center portion of the base has a substantially V cross section, the center portion being configured to come into elastic contact with a portion of the retainer other than each of the pair of engagement parts such that a counterforce is applied from the portion of the retainer other than each of the pair of engagement parts to the center portion of the base when the both sides of the weatherstrip are engaged with the pair of engagement parts. |
| US09038317B2 |
Residential window power actuator
A power actuator for a window in a building includes a drive unit, a cable system, and a controller. The drive unit is positioned within a sill of the window. The cable system is engagable with the drive unit for moving a pane of the window relative to a window frame between an opened position and a closed position. The controller is electrically coupled to the drive unit and a power outlet located in the building and connected to an external power grid. |
| US09038315B2 |
Self-balancing double-hung window apparatus
A mechanism is provided for balancing and positioning a sash of a self-balancing double-hung window assembly. The mechanism may include a fixed length cable, a pulley, first and second brackets and an adjustment member. The fixed length cable may include first and second ends. The pulley may support the cable. The first bracket may include one or more attachment points relative to the first end of the cable and may include an upper end and a lower end. The second bracket may be movable relative to the first bracket and may be configured to support the sash. The adjustment member may engage and extend through the lower end of the first bracket and may be movable relative to the first bracket to cause corresponding movement of the second bracket relative to the first end of the cable. |
| US09038313B2 |
Safety guard or gate
A safety guard or gate for placement in a frame of an opening to prevent a child or pet from passing though the opening. The present invention includes an adjustable means for adjusting the guard to fit the width of the frame, wherein the adjustable means has a first end and a second end to form an axis along which the means can be adjusted. The invention further includes an attachment means for securing the guard to the frame; and a securing means for securing the adjustable means to the attachment means. The securing means prevents the adjustable means from disengaging from the attachment means along the axis when in a locked position, and allows disengagement and reengagement of the adjustable means in direction that transects the axis when the securing means is in an unlocked position. The present invention further includes methods for using the safety guard, and systems that include elements of the safety guard. |
| US09038306B2 |
Apparatus for mounting a sighting mechanism on a handgun
The invention relates to an apparatus for mounting a sighting mechanism on a handgun, with a bracket (2), comprising at least a fixed bracket element and a rotatable bracket element (5) opposite thereto that is rotatable on an axis (20) relative to the bracket (2), which is adjustable by an operating element (19) opposite the fixed bracket element (3). To enable a precisely repeatable and low-wear mounting, the operating element (19) is rotatable relative to the rotatable bracket element (5) on the axis (20) thereof. |
| US09038304B1 |
Gun magazine
A gun magazine includes an outer shell, an inner shell mounted in the outer shell and including a top opening, a track extended from the top opening, a guide block supported on a spring member in a rear end of the track and movable in and out of the top opening, a bottom cover affixed to the inner shell and the outer shell at a bottom side, and an adjustment member including a lever inserted through an elongated slot in the bottom block, a pivot holder located at a top end of the lever and pivotally connected to the inner shell and a guide rod extended from the top end of the lever and terminating in a retaining tip that is movable in and out of the track to stop or not to stop the guide block subject to operation of the lever between two positions, thereby adjusting the bullet storage capacity of the track. |
| US09038302B1 |
Shock mitigation device and method therefor, and system employing same
A shock mitigation system for a weapon having a weapon-mounted device that mitigates (reduces and/or reshapes) the total and/or peak acceleration transmitted to the weapon-mounted device when the weapon is fired. The shock mitigation system includes a weapon interface coupled between the weapon and the weapon-mounted device and having a dampening mechanism. In one embodiment, the weapon interface further includes a guide system that allows the weapon-mounted device to move axially relative to the weapon, while substantially limiting non-axial movement, from a first position (static position prior to firing) to a second position (after firing) and return to the first original position. In one embodiment, the dampening mechanism operates to provide bi-directional dampening of both the primary recoil-induced acceleration and any secondary acceleration caused by overshoot. In another embodiment, the dampening mechanism is user-adjustable. |
| US09038301B2 |
Illuminable panel frame assembly arrangement
A four sided illuminable frame arrangement for the convenient display of a planar article, the frame arrangement comprising an elongated inner rail receivably connected to an elongated outer rail, the outer rail having an elongated cover rail hingedly connected thereto, the three rails comprising a multi-component assembly for each side of the four sided frame arrangement, the elongated inner rail allowing for fastener-free capture of a light-transparent panel having an L-shaped first side which supports an elongated arrangement of LEDs, the inner rail also having a mounting bracket channel on the rear side thereof, and a second alignment bracket channel disposed thereadjacent, the second alignment bracket channels having upstanding panel-support-flanges for even, peripheral support of the aforementioned light-transparent panel thereon. |
| US09038297B1 |
Self-righting, rocking display system
A display system that rocks in the wind and is self-righting with a biased anchoring system that is recessed inside of the display and hidden from view. |
| US09038287B2 |
Article of footwear with integral upper and sole
An article of footwear with an integral upper and sole and a method of assembling the article of footwear are disclosed. The method includes folding the article of footwear from a flat configuration and attaching top and bottom lateral edges to form the article of footwear. A kit of parts containing an article of footwear with an integral upper and sole and a set of instructions is also disclosed. |
| US09038286B2 |
Footwear accessory
A footwear accessory comprising a reversible footwear cover, the cover adapted to cover an article of footwear's uppers, sole and heel counter; a two sided sole attached to the cover, the sole adapted to provide both a frictional surface between the footwear and the cover and between a walking surface and the footwear; and, a cover retainer for securing the footwear cover to the footwear, the retainer being integral to the cover and adapted to be inserted into the footwear and positioned between a user's foot and the footwear. |
| US09038284B2 |
Systems and methods for efficient microwave drying of extruded honeycomb structures
Systems and methods for efficient microwave drying of extruded honeycomb structures are disclosed. The methods include conveying first and second sets of honeycomb structures in opposite directions through multiple applicator cavities. Each honeycomb structure has a moisture content MC, and the honeycomb structures within each cavity define an average moisture content MCA between 40% and 60% therein. The methods include irradiating the first and second sets of honeycomb structures within the cavities with microwave radiation having an amount of input microwave power PI that results in an amount of reflected microwave power PR from the honeycomb structures, where PR<(0.2)PI. This allows for a relatively high microwave power to be maintained in each cavity. Batch microwave drying methods are also disclosed. |
| US09038281B1 |
Apparatus for aligning a wind turbine generator
An apparatus for aligning a wind turbine generator is disclosed. Preferably, the apparatus includes at least, but is not limited to, a support flange engaging a securement stud via a securement aperture, and a force displacement plate contacting the support flange. The preferred apparatus further includes an indexing means attached to the securement stud and force displacement plate, the indexing means configured to translate a rotational force to linear force capable of moving the support flange in relation to the securement stud. |
| US09038280B2 |
Mirrored compass with improved sighting window
A recreational or outdoor mirrored compass is comprised of a base member, a hinged cover with a mirror and a sighting window for sighting a land mark, and a vial assembly pivotally coupled to said base member. The vial assembly comprises a vial, a magnetized indicator member pivotally journaled in the vial and an azimuth ring. At least parts of the inner sides of the sighting window are tapered in the line of sight. |
| US09038275B2 |
Reciprocating saw dust shroud
A dust shroud for reciprocating saws has a shroud body with bristles, a vacuum port and an attachment collar attached to the shroud body. The shroud has a slot formed through the collar and shroud body and is expandable and collapsible to fit different sizes of reciprocating saws. |
| US09038274B2 |
Method of making concrete pile sections
A casting guide and a method of making a concrete pile using the casting guide, the casting guide including a casting guide end plate, at least two lock rod forms including a first set of crosswise through-holes, and at least two lock socket forms including a second set of crosswise through-holes. The first and second sets of crosswise through-holes configured to removably receive a casting guide pin extending substantially across the casting guide end plate and interconnecting the crosswise through-holes the lock rod forms or lock socket forms when the casting guide is inside a casting chute. |
| US09038273B2 |
Shipping pallet post reinforcement
A shipping pallet having a top deck, a bottom skid, and a plurality of posts disposed between and separating the top deck and the bottom skid such that at least one tow fork is able to be positioned between the top deck and the bottom skid. The shipping pallet also includes a plurality of collars formed as part of the top deck, and the posts are integrally formed as part of the bottom skid. Each of the plurality of posts is received into and connected to a respective one of the plurality of collars. There is also a plurality of reinforcements, and each of the reinforcements is disposed within and surrounded by a post. Each post and reinforcement is received into one of the collars, and the post is connected to the collar through a connection point, such as an adhesive joint or thermoplastic weld. |
| US09038272B1 |
Variable force spring tapes and method of manufacture
A spring tape suitable for use in spring motor applications where reactive torque varies with rotational deflection. An elongate elastic element is advanced lengthwise and is laser cut into longitudinally complementary shapes which are separated and subsequently pre-stressed into rolls which are cut to length for assembly into a spring motor. |
| US09038271B2 |
High thermal conductivity disk brakes
An automotive disk brake assembly installed in an automobile having a wheel. The assembly includes a floating caliper supporting inner and outer brake pads and a brake rotor having a disk, a hat, wherein the hat is bolted to the wheel. A hydraulic cylinder pushes the inner brake pads into the disk surface, thereby causing the floating caliper to move so as to bring the outer brake pad into contact with the disk surfaces. Finally, the rotor is made of a material having a thickness and a coefficient of thermal expansion and conductivity, such that a complete 100 kilometer per hour, 0.9 gross vehicle weight braking causes the disk to expand in thickness by at least 0.10 mm and to cool to shrink in thickness, from its expanded thickness, by at least 0.05 mm within 60 seconds of cessation of braking, in an ambient temperature of less than 30° C. |
| US09038264B2 |
Non-uniform vacuum profile die attach tip
A tool is disclosed for separating a semiconductor die from a tape to which the die is affixed during the wafer dicing process. The tool includes a pick-up arm for positioning a vacuum tip over a semiconductor die to be removed. The vacuum tip includes a non-uniform array of vacuum holes to grip the semiconductor wafer. |
| US09038261B2 |
Furniture assembly modules
A set of furniture assembly modules adapted to hold members of a piece of furniture together in a preassembled position prior to or during final assembly. The set of furniture assembly modules comprising at least one corner module having a face member and at least two side wall members extending perpendicularly from the face member in the same direction, wherein the face member of the corner module is formed having an L-shape, and at least one intermediate module having a face member and at least three side wall members extending perpendicularly from the face member in the same direction, wherein the face member of the intermediate module is formed having a T-shape, such that a user can incorporate any necessary number of corner and intermediate modules required to hold the piece of furniture together in the pre assembled position prior to or during final assembly. |
| US09038257B2 |
High-speed loading/unloading of objects
The present invention relates to methods and an apparatuses for loading and unloading objects into/from corresponding cavities in holders at a high count rate. For loading, a plurality of objects are present on an object path which mutually converges with a holder path. For unloading, the object path mutually diverges from the holder path. Integration of this method and apparatus respectively into a method of manufacturing unleaky containers and a corresponding apparatus for leak testing containers is also proposed. |
| US09038256B2 |
Forming components made of cast materials
Method for non-destructively forming a component made of cast material beyond the quasistatic elongation at break, wherein the component is formed by means of electromagnetic high-speed forming (EMF) method. |
| US09038254B1 |
Unloading apparatus
An apparatus for unloading a stuffing box is formed from a resiliently deformable material. It features a base and a plurality of elongate finger elements. The finger elements are supported about the periphery of the base, and define outer boundaries of a hollow interior region. Each finger element supports an externally projecting lip. In the relaxed position of the apparatus, the lips project outside the cross-sectional profile of the base. In a compressed configuration, the lips are fully contained within the base's cross-sectional profile. When the apparatus is inserted into a stuffing box loaded with coaxially aligned annular packing elements, it assumes a compressed configuration until the lips clear the lowermost packing element to be removed. The apparatus then assumes a relaxed position with the lips engaging the underside of the lowermost packing element. The apparatus and the engaged packing elements are then withdrawn from the stuffing box. |
| US09038253B2 |
System and method for lifting a casing section
A system for lifting a first casing section relative to a second casing section is disclosed. The system may generally include a guide member configured to be coupled to the second casing section so as to generally extend lengthwise in a lift direction of the first casing section and a sleeve member configured to be coupled to the first casing section. The sleeve member may be movably disposed on the guide member such that the sleeve member is displaced along a length of the guide member as the first casing section is lifted in the lift direction. |
| US09038252B2 |
Vehicle seat assembly having a hardness gradient via surface intrusions and/or protrusions
A method of making a vehicle seat assembly comprising providing a cushion having an “A” surface, a “B” surface, a central portion, and two bolster areas, with each bolster area being adjacent the central portion, the cushion having a plurality of intrusions extending from the “A” surface towards the “B” surface to form a hardness gradient between at least one of the bolster areas and the central portion of between 8% to 25%, securing the cushion to a frame, and covering cushion with a trim member. |
| US09038251B1 |
Quick release buckle
A buckle assembly structured for quick release and including a gripping assembly structured to removably retain an end connector in a locked position. Two locking segments are movably connected to one another and disposable between a closed orientation and a release orientation. The locked position includes the locking segments disposed in gripping engagement with the connector when the connector is disposed between the locking segments. A quick release assembly may be selectively positioned into a separating engagement with the locking segments to at least partially define a positioning thereof from their closed orientation into their release orientation. A secondary release assembly is connected to the gripping assembly and is independently operable to release the connector from the gripping engagement with the locking segments. |
| US09038250B2 |
Seat belt buckle
The invention relates to a seat belt buckle (10) comprising a locking mechanism for a plug-in latch and a casing (12) that encloses the locking mechanism and includes an inserting opening (14) for inserting the plug-in latch as well as a release opening (16) in which a release element (20) for releasing the locking mechanism is disposed. There is provided a sealing device (22) for sealing the inserting opening (14), when the plug-in latch is not inserted, and/or the release opening (16). |
| US09038249B2 |
Slider for concealed slide fastener
Providing a slider for a concealed slide fastener, capable of achieving a smooth sliding operation of the slider, even when the slider is applied to a seat cover for a seat and strong lateral pulling force is applied to the slider when the slide fastener is closed. A slider for a concealed slide fastener comprises a slider body having at least a lower blade, left and right side wall portions and left and right first flanges, and slider upper plate member engaged with the slider body and having at least a second flange projecting toward at least the left and right side wall portions. |
| US09038244B2 |
Hinge for transport cases, trunks, suitcases and the like
A hinge for transport cases, trunks, suitcases and the like, comprising two elements which are mutually articulated about a common axis and are both able to rotate with respect to the common axis. Each element is delimited by two parallel walls and has a total width that is equal to the width of the channel delimited between the stiffening ribs of the transport case, suitcase or trunk on which it will be installed. Each element is associable with the stiffening ribs of the respective transport case, once it is inserted between the ribs, without requiring any mechanical machining of the surfaces of the case. |
| US09038242B2 |
Vertical adjustable hinge
A vertically adjustable hinge includes a first leaf rotatably connected to a leaf assembly. The leaf assembly defines an opening with at least a first inclined surface and includes a block received in the opening. The block defines a threaded hole and at least a second inclined surface abutting the first inclined surface. A leaf assembly housing receives the leaf assembly and the block. The leaf assembly housing defines screw holes for receiving a screw that passes through the threaded hole. A rotation of a screw in the threaded hole causes a horizontal translation of the block, which in turn causes a vertical translation of the leaf assembly. |
| US09038240B2 |
Detachable hanger for covering of building's opening
A hanger for a sash of a window to detachably engage the sash with a rail of the window, and the hanger includes a pulley assembly and a restricting assembly. The pulley assembly has a base and a plurality of pulleys mounted on the base for rotation. The pulleys engage the rail so that the pulley assembly moves in the rail. The base is provided with a slot. The sash is provided with a rod. The rod engages the slot of the pulley assembly to engage the sash with the rail, and the rod leaves the slot via a lateral opening thereof while the covering rotates for a predetermined angle. At this time, the sash is disengaged with the rail to be moved off the window. |
| US09038239B2 |
Removable grommet device and method of using thereof
A grommet device and method of using a grommet device is provided. A top structure has a top surface. An aperture having a central axis is positioned interior of the top structure. A sidewall is formed around the aperture and connected to the top structure. The sidewall is positioned substantially perpendicular from the top surface of the top structure. At least two upper protruding structures are connected to the top structure at different locations along the top structure, wherein each of the upper protruding structures extends into the aperture. At least two lower protruding structures extend from the sidewall at different locations along the sidewall, wherein each of the lower protruding structures have a flexing portion extending into the aperture, wherein each of the upper protruding structures are substantially radially aligned with the flexing portion of each of the lower protruding structures, respectively. |
| US09038236B2 |
Filter shaker
A filter shaker for a filter assembly disposed in a vacuum includes a housing that removably mounts to the filter and/or a support for the filter and a vibrator assembly carried by the housing. When actuated, the vibrator assembly vibrates the filter to clean particulate matter from the filter. The vibrator assembly includes a motor that drives an eccentric and an actuator that periodically impacts against a portion of the housing to cause the vibrations. The housing includes a mounting assembly for mounting the filter shaker to the cage and/or filter in an operative position and a locking assembly for locking and unlocking the filter shaker in the operative position to prevent the filter shaker from vibrating off. In the operative position, the filter shaker covers an open end of a tubular filter and thereby forces air to be directed through filter material of the tubular filter. |
| US09038228B1 |
Pet hair and human hair grooming brush with two sets of different bristles
A multi-pin grooming brush having multi-sectioned bristles on the brush pad to provide a triple combing action. The brush has an outer layer of fixed pin tufts which encircle the exterior of the brush pad and preferably are metal pin tufts. The brush has a middle layer of flexible tufts preferably made of pure boar bristles and which are surrounded by the fixed pin tufts. As the brush is moved through a pet's hair or human hair, the outer layer of fixed pin tufts gently yet thoroughly detangles the coat, removes larger particles and provides a gentle massage effect, then the middle layer of pure boar bristles conditions the hair by distributing natural oils, leaving a healthy shine and a protective layer over the pet's coat, and then the opposite section of fixed pin tufts passes through the hair once again to smooth and separate the conditioned hair. |
| US09038227B1 |
Pet hair and human hair grooming brush with two sets of different bristles
A multi-pin grooming brush having multi-sectioned bristles on the brush pad to provide a triple combing action. The brush has an outer layer of fixed pin tufts which encircle the exterior of the brush pad and preferably are metal pin tufts. The brush has a middle layer of flexible tufts preferably made of pure boar bristles and which are surrounded by the fixed pin tufts. As the brush is moved through a pet's hair or human hair, the outer layer of fixed pin tufts gently yet thoroughly detangles the coat, removes larger particles and provides a gentle massage effect, then the middle layer of pure boar bristles conditions the hair by distributing natural oils, leaving a healthy shine and a protective layer over the pet's coat, and then the opposite section of fixed pin tufts passes through the hair once again to smooth and separate the conditioned hair. |
| US09038225B2 |
Electric toothbrush with drive mechanism
A toothbrush that includes a brushing attachment and a handle. The brushing attachment includes a main body portion with a hollow neck having an attachment opening and a head with a cleaning member opening, a drive shaft positioned in the neck, a cleaning member drive mechanism matingly engaged with gearing on the drive shaft, and a cleaning member extending through the cleaning member opening in the head and operatively associated with the cleaning member drive mechanism. The drive shaft includes a spline drive on one end and gearing on the opposite end. The handle includes a main body portion with a brushing attachment connection receiver that is at least partially received in the attachment opening. The brushing attachment connection receiver includes a recess defined therein that receives a drive hub with a grooved recess defined therein that receives the spline drive. |
| US09038224B1 |
Exfoliating brush assembly
An exfoliating brush assembly provides different attachments to scrub, stimulate, and exfoliate a user's scalp and body. The assembly includes a head having a bottom side and a peripheral wall extending upwardly from the bottom side. A groove extends through the bottom side and upwardly into the peripheral wall. A plurality of washing assemblies is each selectively couplable to the head wherein the washing assemblies are configured for cleaning the user. Each of the washing assemblies has a tab corresponding to the groove such that the tab is configured to interlock with the groove when the tab is slidably inserted into the groove. A vibrational unit and a battery compartment are positioned in the head. The battery compartment is configured for holding a battery and is electrically coupled to the vibrational unit wherein the battery compartment activates the vibrational unit when the battery delivers power to the vibrational unit. |
| US09038223B2 |
Folding knife having seat belt cutter on blade tang
The present invention relates to embodiments of a folding knife having a seat belt cutter on the blade tang. In one embodiment, a folding knife comprises a handle and a knife blade. The knife blade comprises a tang pivotably connected to the handle, and the blade is operable to pivot relative to the handle about a pivot axis extending through the tang between a closed position and an open position. The tang comprises an enlarged tang portion that extends outwardly from the handle when the blade is in the closed position, and the enlarged tang portion comprises a cutting portion. |
| US09038213B2 |
Bed clothing system
Disclosed is a bed clothing system that has a bottom sheet and top sheet attached together at the corners of the foot end of the bed clothing system. At the foot end of the bed clothing system on the corners, where the top and bottom sheets are attached, a stretchable piece of material is disposed in a vertical direction so that the bed sheet system is able to accommodate to any size and thickness of a mattress, while also remaining securely fixed on a mattress. |
| US09038209B1 |
Shower curtain rod assembly
A shower curtain-rod assembly is arranged to have distinct and structurally separate gravitational and torsional load bearing capabilities. The shower curtain may be formed with folded pockets to receive shower curtain stays. The pockets are made by creating overlapping layers of the shower curtain and then ultrasonically welding the overlapping layers together. The shower curtain-rod assembly includes a shower rod having an internal track, a shower ring coupled to a shower curtain stay, and rollers supported on the internal track and coupled to the stay. The internal track generally supports the weight of the shower curtain, the rollers, the stays, and the shower ring. In one embodiment, a channel formed in an outer wall of the shower rod cooperates with a torsional restraint tab extending from an inner surface of the shower ring, which is located over the shower rod. |
| US09038208B2 |
Swim spa with plenum arrangement at head end
A swimming pool with a circulating water flow includes a plurality of side walls adjacent a swimming compartment, one of the side walls including an outlet, at least one inlet positioned at each lateral side of the outlet, and a plenum arrangement on a side of the one wall opposite the swimming compartment. The plenum arrangement is in communication with each inlet and the outlet. A water propulsion device is positioned within the plenum arrangement and effects a pair of circuitous water flow paths within the swimming compartment. |
| US09038207B2 |
Toilet overfill regulator
A kit for calibrating an amount of water required by a toilet with an amount of water to be supplied to the toilet has a first recorder for determining an amount of water in a toilet bowl, a second recorder for determining an amount of water in a toilet tank if the water in the toilet bowl reaches a determined level, and a valve for setting an amount of water delivered to the tank if the water reaches a determined level in the tank. |
| US09038205B2 |
Flush toilet
A flush toilet including a seat; a stirring device; and a control unit. The stirring device includes a stirring chamber, a mixer, and a drain outlet. The stirring device is disposed below the seat. The stirring chamber communicates with the seat. The drain outlet is disposed at the lower part of the stirring device and communicates with the stirring chamber. A closing device is disposed on the drain outlet to control the opening and closing of the drain outlet. The mixer and a motor for driving the mixer are disposed in the stirring chamber. The control unit controls the operation of the motor. |
| US09038204B2 |
Drain guard
A drain guard for a sink equipped with a garbage disposal having a flange attached to a surface of such sink and forming a sink drain opening includes a generally round and flat body member, a T-shaped grip attached to a top surface of the body member and a generally flat member extending outwardly and in a generally vertical direction from a bottom surface of the body member and which is capable of scraping solids from at least one of eating wear and such sink surface. |
| US09038201B2 |
Non-slip footwear
Disclosed is a non-slip footwear which comprises a main body formed of a flexible material and formed to surround the sole of a foot of a user and to open the top side of the foot; toe insertion holes formed of the flexible material, protruding from the front part of the main body so that toes of the foot are respectively inserted into the toe insertion holes; an non-slip outsole formed at the heel part of the main body and formed of foamed rubber having abrasion resistance, and having a thickness of 1 mm˜5 mm; and non-slip dots formed at the sole part of the main body and the non-slip outsole. |
| US09038200B2 |
Footwear remover and drying rack
A footwear remover has a platform elevated above the ground, with one or more recesses in the platform for removing footwear. The platform provides sufficient surface area to allow a user to place an unshoed, clean foot away from where a soiled shoe was previously positioned. In one embodiment, the footwear remover may be mounted to a suspending surface and used as a drying and storage rack for footwear. The footwear remover may optionally include hanging features for drying and hanging accessory items. |
| US09038199B2 |
Welding helmet positive air pressuring system and method
A method and system for controlling ventilation in a welding helmet is provided. The invention may be adapted to a wide variety of system types, and may reduce or eliminate the need for a shroud or barrier around the head and neck of the welder, of the type used in PAPR systems. The airflow system includes forward and rearward air streams, directed onto the face of the welder, onto the top of the head of the welder, and toward the back of the head of the welder. The air streams help to cool the welder, provide a fresh source of air for breathing, and create a positive pressure system that reduces or excludes entrainment of contaminated external air into the forwardly directed air flow. Certain embodiments may include streams that are filtered, split or redirected via deflectors and conduits to achieve the aforementioned goals. |
| US09043947B2 |
Near-field optical probe manufacturing using organo-mineral material and sol-gel process
A method is provided for manufacturing near-field optical probes including at least one organo-mineral material with an organic part and a mineral part, the method including steps of irradiating at least partially the organo-mineral material with a radiation beam to polymerize the organic part in the irradiated areas, and polycondensing the mineral part by sol-gel process. Also disclosed are near-field optical probes and AFM and SNOM systems using the probes. |
| US09043945B2 |
Encryption keypad capable of preventing illegal disassembly
An enhanced encryption keypad (100) capable of preventing illegal disassembly for an automated teller machine comprises a key panel (101) and a main control board (102). A removal detection protection circuit is disposed inside a main chip of the main control board (102), and at least one pin of the removal detection protection circuit is guided out from a surface (1021) of a side of the main control board (102) near the key panel to form a removal detection point (1022). The removal detection point (1022) has two opened signal contact points. The two opened signal contact points are conducted by a conductive adhesive (103) to activate the removal detection protection circuit. A conductive protection ring (1023) isolated from the removal detection point is disposed at the periphery of the removal detection point. The conductive protection ring (1023) is connected to the removal detection protection circuit inside the main control chip. A protection circle (1024) is disposed at the periphery of the conductive protection ring and the corresponding conductive adhesive. The present application effectively protects the encryption keypad from illegal attacks on the removal detection point from the side. |
| US09043943B1 |
Self-destructing content
Protecting sensitive content, such as business critical documents or other computer files, is disclosed. In various embodiments, upon receiving an indication that a threat pattern associated with a content item has been matched, the protected content “self-destructs”, such as rendering the content item inaccessible, e.g., at a client and/or to a particular user or group of users. |
| US09043941B2 |
Biometric authentication device, biometric authentication system, biometric authentication method, and recording medium
A biometric authentication device includes a processor to execute an operation including: obtaining biometric information from a user; creating verification characteristic data from the biometric information; verifying registered characteristic data registered in a storage device with the verification characteristic data and determining whether the user is a true user; permitting execution of re-authentications up to a predetermined number of times when the user is determined to not be the true user; managing the verification characteristic data by storing the verification characteristic data in an existing group or by creating a new group and storing the verification characteristic data therein, when the user is determined to not be the true user; determining whether the user is a false user based on the number of groups; and limiting the execution of re-authentications by the user when the user is determined to be the false user. |
| US09043937B2 |
Intelligent decision support for consent management
Embodiments of the invention relate to a method for intelligently providing consent to access a record in a shared pool of resources. Tools are provided to support policies to address and maintain restrictive access of a designated record, both with respect to local and non-local rules and regulations, as well as personal restrictions pertaining to personal and discretionary sharing decisions. |
| US09043920B2 |
System and method for identifying exploitable weak points in a network
The system and method described herein may leverage passive and active vulnerability discovery to identify network addresses and open ports associated with connections that one or more passive scanners observed in a network and current connections that one or more active scanners enumerated in the network. The observed and enumerated current connections may be used to model trust relationships and identify exploitable weak points in the network, wherein the exploitable weak points may include hosts that have exploitable services, exploitable client software, and/or exploitable trust relationships. Furthermore, an attack that uses the modeled trust relationships to target the exploitable weak points on a selected host in the network may be simulated to enumerate remote network addresses that could compromise the network and determine an exploitation path that the enumerated remote network addresses could use to compromise the network. |
| US09043918B2 |
System and method for profile based filtering of outgoing information in a mobile environment
A system and method in one embodiment includes modules for detecting an access request by an application to access information in a mobile device, determining that the application is a potential threat according to at least one policy filter, and blocking a send request by the application to send the information from the mobile device without a user's consent. More specific embodiments include user selecting the information through a selection menu on a graphical user interface that includes information categories pre-populated by an operating system of the mobile device, and keywords that can be input by the user. Other embodiments include queuing the send request in a queue with other requests, and presenting an outbox comprising the queue to the user to choose to consent to the requests. The outbox includes graphical elements configured to permit the user to selectively consent to any requests in the queue. |
| US09043916B1 |
Security content injection
A computing device may receive content from a content source. The content may include software code that is executable by a web browser, and may be directed to another computing device. The computing device may inject security content into the content. The security content may include software instructions to enable the web browser to detect malicious software content within the content. The computing device may communicate the content to the other computing device. |
| US09043912B2 |
Method for thwarting application layer hypertext transport protocol flood attacks focused on consecutively similar application-specific data packets
The present invention provides a methodology to thwart attacks that utilize consecutive hypertext transport protocol packets with similar structures, arriving from a plurality of computer systems on a network, such as the Internet, destined for a single or more computer systems on a secondary network, at such a rate with sufficient complexity to produce an effect on the target computer system or systems such that legitimate clients are denied access to requested services, thus creating a “denial of service” situation. The methodology focuses on the dynamic and proactive reassessment of data packet payload content to maintain a running value of similarity or dissimilarity, thus permitting intermediary apparatuses that are performing this computation to create distinction between legitimate clients and illegitimate clients. |
| US09043911B1 |
Distributed learning and aging for management of internet protocol (IP) addresses
A device includes a security process unit (SPU) associated with a logical ring of SPUs. The SPU receives a packet with an address associated with a malicious source, and creates, based on the packet, an entry in a data structure associated with the SPU. The entry includes information associated with the packet. The SPU provides an install message to a next SPU in the logical ring. The install message instructs the next SPU to create the entry in another data structure, and forward the install message to another SPU. The SPU receives the install message from a last SPU, and sets a state of the entry to active in the data structure based on receiving the install message from the last SPU. The SPU performs a particular action on another packet, associated with the malicious source, based on the setting the state of the entry to active. |
| US09043909B2 |
System and method for incorporating quality-of-service and reputation in an intrusion detection and prevention system
An intrusion prevention system includes a processor, processing engines, buffers that are associated with a different range of reputation scores, and a storage device having a database and an application. The processor executes the application to determine that a firewall has admitted a packet, determine a reputation score for the packet from the database, provide the packet to a buffer that has a reputation score range that includes the reputation score of the packet, provide the packet from the buffer to a processing engine, process the packet by in the processing engine to determine if the packet includes an exploit, and forward the packet to the protected network if the first packet does not include the exploit. |
| US09043907B1 |
System and methods for control of applications using preliminary file filtering
Disclosed are systems, methods and computer program products for control of applications using preliminary file filtering. An example method includes intercepting, by a processor, an operation on a file performed by an application; selecting at least a part of the file; applying one or more file filters to the selected part of the file; determining a set of file characteristics based on outcomes of the file filters; determining a decision, based on the set of file characteristics, whether to exclude the file from further analysis by a client of an application control system; and based on the decision, excluding the file from the further analysis by the client of the application control system or providing the file to the client of the application control system for further analysis whether to allow or prohibit the operation on the file. |
| US09043906B2 |
System and method for preventing operation of undetected malware loaded onto a computing device
Methods and devices for protecting computing devices against the effects of surreptitiously loaded machine language programs from a malware source. The user defines a pattern of disruption of the sequence of bytes. The user then installs legitimate programs to be run on a particular computing device by loading the original program onto the local hard drive and replacing the program by one to which the pattern of disruption has been applied. Using the user-defined disruption pattern, the computing device can define the transforms necessary to reverse the application of the disruptive pattern. As part of the process the operating system for the computing device is modified to apply transforms that reverse the disruption pattern when executing a program file loaded into RAM. |
| US09043903B2 |
Kernel-level security agent
A kernel-level security agent is described herein. The kernel-level security agent is configured to observe events, filter the observed events using configurable filters, route the filtered events to one or more event consumers, and utilize the one or more event consumers to take action based at least on one of the filtered events. In some implementations, the kernel-level security agent detects a first action associated with malicious code, gathers data about the malicious code, and in response to detecting subsequent action(s) of the malicious code, performs a preventative action. The kernel-level security agent may also deceive an adversary associated with malicious code. Further, the kernel-level security agent may utilize a model representing chains of execution activities and may take action based on those chains of execution activities. |
| US09043900B1 |
Display device and method for controlling the same
A display device is disclosed. The display device comprising: a display unit; a sensor unit; a storage unit; and a processor configured to: provide feedback for indicating a security on state of selected first information when selection input for selecting the first information in the security on state is detected, when a security off input for clearing security is detected in response to the feedback, obtain the fingerprint using the display unit, and convert the first information in the security on state into a security off state when the obtained fingerprint is matched with a pre-stored fingerprint, when a security maintenance input for maintaining security is detected in response to the feedback, maintain the security on state of the first information. |
| US09043899B2 |
Variable domain resource data security for data processing systems
The variable domain data access control system and method described herein use the same variable domain to describe a data security model and a variable domain data model, such as a product configuration model. A variable domain is a set of resource data that can be described using a logical relationship data structure. The variable domain utilizes logical relationship expressions, such as a Boolean logic language, to define resource data in terms of parts, rules and/or attributes, and any other property that can be accessed for viewing, manipulation, or other purposes. The data security model represents an access control list (ACL) that includes security attributes as resource data and uses the same data structure and logical relationship expressions as an associated variable domain data model. An application, such as a configuration engine, can be used to create controlled access to the variable domain data model using the data security model. |
| US09043898B2 |
Access management system
An access rights management system is presented in which a mobile device may be allowed to access corporately held data in a flexible manner but in which the security and integrity of the data is maintained. The mobile device is provided with a rights adjustment module which modifies the access rights for locally stored corporate data in dependence on the connectivity of the mobile device with a corporate server. |
| US09043896B2 |
Device certificate based appliance configuration
Embodiments of the present invention address deficiencies of the art in respect to configuring a computing appliance and provide a method, system and computer program product for device certificate based virtual appliance configuration. In one embodiment of the invention, a virtual appliance secure configuration method can be provided. The method can include mounting non-volatile storage to the virtual appliance, retrieving a device certificate from the mounted storage and extracting a signature from the device certificate, activating the virtual appliance in a network domain and acquiring an adapter address and unique identifier for the virtual appliance, and authenticating the signature with the adapter address and unique identifier to ensure a unique active instance of the virtual appliance. |
| US09043891B2 |
Preserving privacy with digital identities
A privacy-preserving identity system is described herein that combines low disclosure tokens with an identity metasystem to allow proof of a user's identity and other claims about the user in a manner that preserves the user's privacy by avoiding disclosing unnecessary information about the user. A low or minimal disclosure token is a security token that encodes claims in such a way that (1) the token can be long-lived, (2) the token can be presented in an unlinkable manner, or (3) the user can minimally disclose the encoded information to respond to an unanticipated Relying Party policy. Using the privacy preserving system within an identity metasystem, users can obtain long-lived, low disclosure tokens from the Identity Provider and later present them to Relying Parties; thus improving both users' privacy and the system's scalability. |
| US09043884B2 |
Autonomic network protection based on neighbor discovery
In one implementation, security configuration is automated based on information gathered using autonomic neighbor discovery. The neighbor discovery establishes a realm of trust between neighbors, such as determining that some neighbors may be trusted and others may not be trusted. A dynamic security barrier is created using the trust where devices on the network border protect the entire network. Differences in trust result in differential security configuration. |
| US09043881B2 |
Entitled data cache management
Systems and methods are disclosed for managing an entitled data cache. A data server may generate and send entitled data to a data cache server. The data cache server, a server that may be located nearer to the user within a data provider's computer network, may receive and cache the entitled data. A permission server may store user's permissions and transmit the user's permissions to the data server and the data cache server. Upon receiving a request for data, the data cache server may retrieve the requested data from the cache and send a subset of the cached data which matches the user's permissions to the user, without the need to request the data from the data server. |
| US09043876B2 |
Cryptographic method and apparatus
A method of formatting data for transmission to another party including the step of incorporating in the data a flag indicative of the absence of data for authentication of the sender. An authentication tag length is also included to permit variable length tags to be used. |
| US09043871B2 |
Method for operating invisible system services on android platform
A method for operating an invisible system service on Android platform is disclosed. The method for operating system services on Android platform includes selectively registering a created system service in a context manager according to a type of the created system service, where the type of the system service comprises a first type for permitting access from an outside and a second type for not permitting access from the outside, and the selectively registering comprises registering in the context manager the created system service belonging to the first type and not registering in the context manager the created system service belonging to the second type. |
| US09043869B2 |
Aggregating the knowledge base of computer systems to proactively protect a computer from malware
Techniques for aggregating a knowledge base of a plurality of security services or other event collection systems to protect a computer from malware are provided. In embodiments, a computer is protected from malware by using anti-malware services or other event collection systems to observe suspicious events that are potentially indicative of malware. A determination is made as to whether a combination of the suspicious events is indicative of malware. If the combination of suspicious events is indicative of malware, a restrictive security policy designed to prevent the spread of malware is implemented. |
| US09043868B2 |
Network security appliance
Methods, devices, and systems that may be used to secure networked devices are provided. One method includes receiving, at a security device, encrypted configuration data from a management server connected to a data network, from packets addressed to a networked device. The method further includes managing, by the security device, packets between the networked device and other devices accessible through a network based upon the configuration data. The method further includes sending, by the security device, a plurality of encrypted heartbeat messages to the management server utilizing an address associated with the networked device as the originating address for packets in which the encrypted heartbeat messages are transmitted. |
| US09043867B2 |
Information sharing
Systems and methods for the sharing of information between organizations are disclosed. Policies that govern the permissions for the sharing of information are represented as Boolean functions such as Binary Decision Diagrams. |
| US09043863B1 |
Policy enforcing browser
A web browser that includes a network policy enforcement unit, a storage policy enforcement unit, and an ancillary policy enforcement unit is disclosed. The network policy enforcement unit controls communications between application logic of a web application and data communication APIs. The storage policy enforcement unit controls access between the web application logic and persistent storage APIs. The ancillary policy enforcement unit controls user authentication of the web application logic. |
| US09043861B2 |
Method and system for managing security policies
A system and method of managing security policies in an information technologies (IT) system are provided. In an example, the method includes receiving an input indicating a high-level security policy for the IT system, the received high-level security policy relating to non-functional system attributes for the IT system and received in a format that is not machine-enforceable at an enforcement entity of the IT system. A functional model for the IT system is determined, where the functional model indicates functional system attributes of the IT system. At least one pre-configured rule template is loaded, and at least one machine-enforceable rule is generated in a manner compliant with the received high-level security policy by iteratively filling the at least one pre-configured rule template with functional system attributes indicated by the functional model. After the generating step, the at least one machine-enforceable rule can be distributed (e.g., to an enforcement entity, an Intrusion Detection System (IDS), etc.). In another example, the receiving, determining, loading, generating and distributing steps can be performed at a policy node within an IT system. |
| US09043860B2 |
Method and apparatus for extracting advertisement keywords in association with situations of video scenes
A method and apparatus for extracting advertisement keywords in association with situations of scenes of video include: establishing a knowledge database including a classification hierarchy for classifying situations of scenes of video and an advertisement keyword list, segmenting a video script corresponding to a received video in units of scenes, and determining a situation corresponding to each scene with reference to the knowledge database, and extracting an advertisement keyword corresponding to the situation of a scene of the received video with reference to the knowledge database. |
| US09043859B1 |
Signal processing apparatus and methods
A unified system of programming communication. The system encompasses the prior art (television, radio, broadcast hardcopy, computer communications, etc.) and new user specific mass media. Within the unified system, parallel processing computer systems, each having an input (e.g., 77) controlling a plurality of computers (e.g., 205), generate and output user information at receiver stations. Under broadcast control, local computers (73, 205), combine user information selectively into prior art communications to exhibit personalized mass media programming at video monitors (202), speakers (263), printers (221), etc. At intermediate transmission stations (e.g., cable television stations), signals in network broadcasts and from local inputs (74, 77, 97, 98) cause control processors (71) and computers (73) to selectively automate connection and operation of receivers (53), recorder/players (76), computers (73), generators (82), strippers (81), etc. At receiver stations, signals in received transmissions and from local inputs (225, 218, 22) cause control processors (200) and computers (205) to automate connection and operation of converters (201), tuners (215), decryptors (224), recorder/players (217), computers (205), furnaces (206), etc. Processors (71, 200) meter and monitor availability and usage of programming. |
| US09043856B2 |
Remote control of program receiving devices
Methods, devices, and storage mediums provide for selecting a remote control mode of operation for a mobile device to allow the mobile device to remotely control a program receiving device. Additionally, methods, devices, and storage mediums provide for a proxy service to allow the mobile device to remotely control a program receiving device, an over-the-top service to allow the mobile device to remotely control a program receiving device, and a direct link service to allow the mobile device to remotely control a program receiving device. Methods, devices, and storage mediums also provide for a notification protocol. |
| US09043855B2 |
Noise suppression in a hybrid fiber coaxial network
A coupling device for use in a hybrid fiber coaxial (HFC) network may be configured to disable an upstream path through it when there is only noise incident on the upstream path, and enable the upstream path through it when a desired transmission from a cable modem downstream of the coupling device is incident on the upstream path. The coupling device may be a trunk amplifier, a distribution amplifier, a splitter, or the like. The coupling device may comprise a single upstream interface coupled to a plurality of downstream interfaces. The enabling and/or disabling may be in response to a signal strength indicated by the SSI being below a threshold and/or in response to one or more control messages indicating whether any downstream cable modem is, or will be, transmitting. |
| US09043854B2 |
Provisioning a set-top box
A method of provisioning a set-top box (STB) with a provisioning server is disclosed. In the method, a provisioning request is received from a STB, where the provisioning request includes a provisioning stream identifier, an authorization server identifier, and a STB address. The provisioning server requests a provisioning system generate a configuration for the STB, where the configuration includes a channel map and basic code. The provisioning server receives the configuration from the provisioning system. The provisioning server prepares provisioning information, including the configuration for the STB and sends the provisioning information to the STB using the identifier for the STB. |
| US09043851B2 |
Methods, systems, and computer readable media for measuring multicast latency
Methods, systems, and computer readable media for measuring multicast latency are disclosed. According to one method, the method includes emulating one or more Internet protocol television (IPTV) user devices by generating channel leave and join requests. The method further includes monitoring network responses to the channel leave and join requests and calculating, during a cycle of channel leave and join requests for a user device and prior to repeating the cycle, at least one metric of latency associated with the channel leave and join requests. |
| US09043850B2 |
System and method for switching between media streams while providing a seamless user experience
An electronic device with one or more processors, memory and a display receives a first request to display a first video stream on the display. In response to receiving the first request, the electronic device displays the first video stream on the display. While displaying the first video stream on the display, the electronic device receives a second request to display a second video stream on the display. In response to receiving the second request, the electronic device displays at least a portion of the first video stream on the display concurrently with at least a portion of the second video stream, where the second video stream was received, at least in part, from a content source in response to a request from the electronic device to the content source for delivery of the second video stream from the content source. |
| US09043847B2 |
Playback apparatus, playback method and program
A playback apparatus to play back content data including sound data includes an instruction operating portion to detect an instruction operation that instructs execution of prescribed processing, a hold operating portion to detect a hold setting operation that sets a state of not accepting the instruction operation to the instruction operating portion, a state control portion to set the state of not accepting the instruction operation to the instruction operating portion if the hold setting operation is detected by the hold operating portion, and a video processing portion to perform processing for displaying a video. If the video processing portion performs processing for displaying the video when the hold setting operation is detected, the state control portion controls the video processing portion to suspend at least a part of processing for displaying the video. |
| US09043844B2 |
Series reminders and series recording from an interactive television program guide
An interactive television program guide system with program series reminder and recording capabilities is provided. The system allows a user to set a reminder or schedule a recording for a single episode or for each episode of a program series. In addition, other options may be provided that allow the user to determine, for example, whether to schedule reminders/recordings for episodes on all channels on which the program airs or only on a selected channels, whether to schedule reminders/recordings for all episodes including reruns or only new episodes, whether to schedule reminders/recordings for network or syndicated episodes, and whether to schedule reminders/recordings for episodes on all days or only on selected days of the week. Before the scheduled broadcast time of each episode of each selected program series, the system sends a reminder message to the user that reminds the user of the program episode or sends a record command to a videocassette recorder to initiate recording of the episode. The system allows a user to view a list of all currently requested program reminders and scheduled program recordings. The user may update, change, or cancel any entry in either list or the system may automatically update the lists to match new broadcast schedule information. If the user sets a reminder or schedules a recording that conflicts with an existing reminder or recording, the system may inform the user of the conflict and allow the user to resolve the conflict or the system may resolve the conflict. |
| US09043839B2 |
Media content spatial navigation
A method and system of providing a content guide that identifies a spatial relationship between the elements in the content guide is described. A controller receives electronic program guide data. The received electronic program guide data is parsed to identify a plurality of programs listed in the electronic program guide and data corresponding to at least one program description attribute for the identified programs. A relationship is determined between each identified program based on the at least one program description attribute. At least one cluster is generated and includes at least one of the plurality of identified programs based on the determined relationship. A user interface display processor generates a user interface display image representing a clustered content guide and including the at least one generated cluster enabling the user to view the relationship of the plurality of programs. |
| US09043836B2 |
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. |
| US09043830B2 |
Adlite rich media solutions without presentation requiring use of a video player
The present invention provides techniques relating to rich media advertising. Techniques are provided in which an advertiser-provided image-based component of an advertisement creative is matched with an advertiser-provided audio component of the advertisement creative. A rich media advertisement may be served that includes the image-based component and a synchronously presented audio component. Presentation of the rich media advertisement on a user computer may not require downloading or utilization of a video player. |
| US09043829B2 |
Synchronization of user interactive events with on-screen events during playback of multimedia stream
A method includes receiving, at a multimedia device, a data stream representing multimedia content, the data stream comprising first timing information for the multimedia content, and metadata representing interactive event information associated with the multimedia content, the metadata comprising second timing information for the interactive event information. During the playback of the multimedia content, a first user interactive event is identified that is associated with a first time point in the playback of the multimedia content based on the interactive event information, and the first user interactive event is performed concurrent with the first time point in the playback of the multimedia content. |
| US09043827B1 |
Method and system for providing conditional access to encrypted content
A method and system of providing conditional access to encrypted content includes receiving unsolicited multiply encrypted video content and first decryption data over a broadcast network. Partially decrypted video content is obtained by decrypting a first layer of encryption of the encrypted video content using the first decryption data. The partially decrypted video content is stored. A request for viewing the encrypted video content is transmitted and second decryption data is received. A second layer of encryption of the encrypted video content is decrypted using the second decryption data. |
| US09043826B1 |
User based parental controls
User-based parental controls (UBPC) are provided. UBPC are provided to users according to a user profile associated with a specific user. Parental controls may be tailored to meet a parental control need according to each user. User profiles may be created by one or more administrative users and may include restrictions according to a TV, movie, application, or game rating system, specific channels, or specific programs. User profiles may be stored in a remote database allowing for various media content receiving and/or viewing devices to access the user profiles for applying parental control features according to a specific user profile. A user profile may be altered by one or more administrative users who may create an override access code which may allow the administrative user to manage other users' parental controls. |
| US09043824B2 |
Broadcast transmitter, a broadcast transmitting method and a broadcast receiving method
In one embodiment, a broadcast transmitter includes: a viewer information memory configured to store viewer information regarding a viewer who signs up for a subscription; a generator configured to generate individual information regarding a conditional access of a content including a first expiration time indicating an expiration time of the individual information and a second expiration time set independently of the first expiration time for each the viewer who signs up for the subscription based on the viewer information; and a transmitter configured to transmit a broadcast signal including the generated individual information. |
| US09043822B1 |
Remote time shift buffering with shadow tuning
A remote time shift buffer system with shadow tuning. The remote time shift buffer system includes a client in communication with a remote video recorder. The client tunes to a channel from a television signal source and sends the channel content to a television. When a channel change occurs at the client, the remote video recorder tunes to the same channel as the client and buffers the content. When a pause live television (PLTV) function is initiated, the remote video recorder generates an independent RTSB content stream using the buffered content. Once the RTSB content stream is available, the client switches inputs and displays the RTSB content stream from the remote video recorder. Manipulating the position within the RTSB content stream does not affect buffering of the live content. The remote time shift buffer system provides pause live television functionality with minimal loss of content. |
| US09043820B2 |
Advertisement delivery engine
A method includes receiving first information identifying profile information associated with a customer, habit information associated with the customer's television viewing habits, or Internet usage information associated with the customer. The method also includes receiving preference information from the customer, wherein the preference information identifies advertisements or types of advertisements that the customer would like to view or would not like to view. The method further includes identifying advertisements based on the received first information and the received preference information, inserting, by a service provider, the identified advertisements in a television programming data stream and providing the identified advertisements to the customer. |
| US09043817B2 |
System and method of measurement data and back-up channel services
A system that incorporates teachings of the present disclosure may include, for example, a set top box (STB) comprising a controller programmed to receive measurement data stored in a first wireless device serving as a portable monitoring gateway that collects subscriber collected data and store and analyze the measurement data at the STB using the received measurement data received from the first wireless device and optionally from a remote server or a local storage space having stored measurement data to provide analyzed results. Other embodiments are disclosed. |
| US09043816B2 |
Handling dynamically linked function calls with respect to program code conversion
A technique is provided for handling dynamically linked subject function calls arranged pass subject control flow to an intermediate control structure such as a procedure linkage table, then to subject linker code for modifying link information associated with the subject function calls during translation of subject code into target code in a dynamic binary translator. The subject code for execution on a subject processor is received by a translator, and corresponding target code for execution on the target processor is generated. The translator is arranged to build a function linkage table containing an entry giving the location of each function called by the subject code, so that code can be generated by the translator in which subject function calls are associated with code for performing the function, without generating target code corresponding to the intermediate control structure. |
| US09043814B1 |
Dispatcher framework to provide inter-application communication
A dispatcher framework to provide non-blocking inter-application communication is disclosed. In various embodiments, a call to a service that is blocking with respect to the service is received from a calling process. The service is called on behalf of the calling process in a manner that does not require the calling process to remain blocked during at least a portion of a time during which the call to the service is performed. |
| US09043812B2 |
Dynamic rule management for kernel mode filter drivers
A method for providing rules for a plurality of processes from a user mode to a kernel mode of a computer is disclosed. The method includes providing to the kernel mode a policy for at least a first process of the plurality of processes, the policy indicating at least when and/or how notifications are to be provided from the kernel mode to the user mode upon detection in the kernel mode of launching of the first process. The method further includes selecting, from the rules stored in the user mode, rules related to the launching of the first process, in response to receiving from the kernel mode a first notification in accordance with the policy, and providing the selected rules related to the launching of the first process from the user mode to at least one of the one or more filter drivers in the kernel mode. |
| US09043807B2 |
Application gateway in a browser based environment
An application gateway enables controlled communication between application components within a browser based environment while maintaining a level of isolation of the individual application components. A dispatching API wrapper and a listening API wrapper are registered for each of a plurality of application components. The registered API wrappers are used to send and receive communications from the associated application components. For example, a first application component can dispatch an action to a second application component via the first application component's dispatching API wrapper. The second application component can receive the action via the second application component's listening API wrapper. As another example, a first application component can dispatch an event that broadcasts a state to other application components via the first application component's dispatching API wrapper. A listening API wrapper of at least one other application component receives the state and may perform other functions dependent on the state. |
| US09043805B2 |
Reconfigurable processor and method
Disclosed are a reconfigurable processor and processing method, a reconfiguration control apparatus and method, and a thread modeler and modeling method. A memory area of a reconfigurable processor may be divided into a plurality of areas, and a context enabling a thread process may be stored in respective divided areas, in advance. Accordingly, when a context switching is performed from one thread to another thread, the other thread may be executed by using information stored in an area corresponding to the other thread. |
| US09043802B2 |
Adjustment of threads for execution based on over-utilization of a domain in a multi-processor system by destroying parallizable group of threads in sub-domains
Embodiments provide various techniques for dynamic adjustment of a number of threads for execution in any domain based on domain utilizations. In a multiprocessor system, the utilization for each domain is monitored. If a utilization of any of these domains changes, then the number of threads for each of the domains determined for execution may also be adjusted to adapt to the change. |
| US09043793B1 |
Verification of controls in information technology infrastructure via obligation assertion
A processing device comprises a processor coupled to a memory and implements an obligation management system for information technology infrastructure, with the obligation management system being configured to process a plurality of obligations on behalf of a relying party to verify implementation of corresponding controls in information technology infrastructure of a claimant. A given one of the obligations has an associated obligation fulfiller that is inserted or otherwise deployed as a component within the information technology infrastructure of the claimant and is configured to provide evidence of the implementation of one or more of the controls responsive to an obligation assertion so as to establish an associated trust aspect of the claimant. The information technology infrastructure may comprise distributed virtual infrastructure of a cloud service provider. The claimant may comprise the cloud service provider and the relying party may comprise a tenant of the cloud service provider. |
| US09043791B2 |
Method and system for providing storage services
Method and system are provided for managing components of a storage operating environment having a plurality of virtual machines that can access a storage device managed by a storage system. The virtual machines are executed by a host platform that also executes a processor-executable host services module that interfaces with at least a processor-executable plug-in module for providing information regarding the virtual machines and assists in storage related services, for example, replicating the virtual machines. |
| US09043790B2 |
Virtualization and dynamic resource allocation aware storage level reordering
A system and method for reordering storage levels in a virtualized environment includes identifying a virtual machine (VM) to be transitioned and determining a new storage level order for the VM. The new storage level order reduces a VM live state during a transition, and accounts for hierarchical shared storage memory and criteria imposed by an application to reduce recovery operations after dynamic resource allocation actions. The new storage level order recommendation is propagated to VMs. The new storage level order applied in the VMs. A different storage-level order is recommended after the transition. |
| US09043788B2 |
Experiment manager for manycore systems
An execution environment may have a monitoring, analysis, and feedback loop that may configure and tune the execution environment for currently executing workloads. A monitoring or instrumentation system may collect operational and performance data from hardware and software components within the system. A modeling system may create an operational model of the execution environment, then may determine different sets of parameters for the execution environment. A feedback loop may change various operational characteristics of the execution environment. The monitoring, analysis, and feedback loop may optimize the performance of a computer system for various metrics, including throughput, performance, energy conservation, or other metrics based on the applications that are currently executing. The performance model of the execution environment may be persisted and applied to new applications to optimize the performance of applications that have not been executed on the system. |
| US09043786B1 |
Blueprint-driven environment template creation in a virtual infrastructure
A system for blueprint-driven environment template creation in a virtual infrastructure comprises a processor and a memory. The processor is configured to receive a blueprint, receive an environment template configuration, and build an environment template using the blueprint and the environment template configuration. The environment template is for provisioning an environment. The environment is for deploying an application. The memory is coupled to the processor and is configured to provide the processor with instructions. |
| US09043784B2 |
Management of inter-dependent configurations of virtual machines in a cloud
A server computer system determines that configuring a first virtual machine in a cloud depends on a configuration result of configuring a second virtual machine. The server computer system configures the second virtual machine in the cloud and configures the first virtual machine in the cloud using the configuration result of the second virtual machine. |
| US09043779B2 |
Loading remote binaries onto a write-protected device
A binary library overload instruction is received at an embedded computing device that executes a write-protected firmware build. The binary library overload instruction specifies a write-protected binary library of the write-protected firmware build to be overloaded by execution of an alternative binary library instead of the write-protected binary library of the write-protected firmware build. The alternative binary library is configured within a random access memory (RAM) storage area to execute instead of the write-protected binary library as specified in the received binary library overload instruction. The write-protected firmware build is executed using the alternative binary library instead of the write-protected binary library specified in the binary library overload instruction. |
| US09043778B2 |
Method and system for upgrading software
Embodiments of the present disclosure provide a method and a system for upgrading software. The method includes: a client reports a software upgrade request to a server, wherein the upgrade request carries file information of the local software to be upgraded; the server determines the difference with the latest version software according to the file information of the software to be upgraded in the upgrade request, and generates upgrade instruction information according to the difference and sends it to the client; the client downloads and updates the relevant files and performs the relevant local upgrade operations according to the instructions in received upgrade instruction information. Technical solutions of the present disclosure can save bandwidth resources and reduce the workload for upgrading software. |
| US09043777B2 |
Transferring files to a baseboard management controller (‘bmc’) in a computing system
Transferring files to a baseboard management controller (‘BMC’) in a computing system, including: receiving, by the BMC, a request to initiate an update of the computing system; identifying, by the BMC, an area in memory within the computing system for storing an update file; and transmitting, by the BMC, a request to register the BMC as a virtual memory device. |
| US09043773B2 |
Identification and management of unsafe optimizations
Techniques for implementing identification and management of unsafe optimizations are disclosed. A method of the disclosure includes receiving, by a managed runtime environment (MRE) executed by a processing device, a notice of misprediction of optimized code, the misprediction occurring during a runtime of the optimized code, determining, by the MRE, whether a local misprediction counter (LMC) associated with a code region of the optimized code causing the misprediction exceeds a local misprediction threshold (LMT) value, and when the LMC exceeds the LMT value, compiling, by the MRE, native code of the optimized code to generate a new version of the optimized code, wherein the code region in the new version of the optimized code is not optimized. |
| US09043767B2 |
Release management system for a multi-node application
A deployment system provides the ability to deploy a multi-node distributed application, such as a cloud computing platform application that has a plurality of interconnected nodes performing specialized jobs. The deployment system includes a release management system that builds and manages versioned releases of application services and/or software modules that are executed by the plurality of nodes of the cloud computing platform application. The release management system utilizes specification files to define a jobs and application packages and configurations needed to perform the jobs. The jobs and application packages are assembled into a self-contained release bundle that may be provided to the deployment system. The deployment system unwraps the release bundle and provides each job to deployment agents executing on VMs. The deployment agents apply the jobs to their respective VM (e.g., launching applications), thereby deploying the cloud computing platform application. |
| US09043766B2 |
Language translation using preprocessor macros
A method is provided for providing consistent logical code across specific programming languages. The method incorporates preprocessor macros in a source computer program code to generate a program control flow. The preprocessor macros can be used to describe program control flow in the source programming language for execution in the source computer program code. The preprocessor macros can also be used to generate control flow objects representing the control flow, which converts the source computer program code into a general language representation. The general language representation when executed is used to output computer programming code in specific programming languages representing the same logical code as that of the source computer program code. |
| US09043765B2 |
Simultaneously targeting multiple homogeneous and heterogeneous runtime environments
A single software project in an integrated development environment (IDE) may be built for multiple target environments in a single build episode. Multiple different output artifacts may be generated by the build process for each of the target environments. The output artifacts are then deployed to the target environments, which may be homogeneous or heterogeneous environments. The same source project may be used to generate multiple output artifacts for the same target environment. |
| US09043763B2 |
Information editing apparatus
An information editing device is provided with an object storage portion 11 in which a character string object or image object is stored, a placement information storage portion 12 that stores placement area designation information that sets two or more placement areas that do not overlap each other for respectively placing the objects, and that correspond to the objects, an object output portion 13 that outputs, into placement areas that are set based on the placement area designation information, each of the objects corresponding to the respective placement areas, an input receiving portion 14 that receives a deletion instruction or a modification instruction for at least one of the objects output by the object output portion 13, and a placement modification portion 15 that, according to the deletion instruction or modification instruction, modifies the placement area of the object such that the placement area is placed without overlapping. |
| US09043762B2 |
Simulated network
Systems, methods, and computer-readable and executable instructions are provided for providing a simulated network. Providing a simulated network can include collecting a number of network parameters for a plurality of locations and determining an application frequency of an application for the plurality of locations. Furthermore, providing a simulated network can include providing a simulated network with the number of network parameters to a number of testers of the application, wherein the number of network parameters are provided proportionally to the application frequency. |
| US09043760B2 |
Creating dynamic interactive views from trace events for performing deterministic performance analysis
View definitions are created for deterministic performance analysis in real-time computing systems, and can then be used to present views for analyzing outliers that occur during run-time execution. Trace data created by a real-time application is compared to a set of view definitions to determine whether the trace data matches the view definition. If so, then related records from the trace are gathered according to specifications in the matched view definition, and calculations (such as elapsed time) can then be performed using the related records. A view definition may be created by prompting a user for selection of parameters to be programmatically inserted into a markup language document. A capability may be provided whereby a user can receive additional information (which is extracted from the trace data, according to specifications in the matched view definition) upon a user gesture such as hovering a selection means over a displayed view. |
| US09043756B2 |
Compound versioning and identification scheme for composite application development
The present invention provides a method, a system and a computer program product for defining a version identifier of a service component. The method includes determining various specification levels corresponding to the service component. Thereafter, the determined specification levels are integrated according to a predefined hierarchy to obtain the version identifier of the service component. The present invention also enables the identification of the service components. The service components are identified from one or more service components on the basis of one or more user requirements. |
| US09043755B2 |
Custom code lifecycle management
A method is provided to manage program code that runs in a computer system comprising: producing a management information structure that identifies a managed system within the computer system; producing a master object definition information structure that provides a mapping between master objects and corresponding managed code objects that run in the computer system; and requesting extraction of information from the managed system identified by the master information structure that relates to managed code objects that the object definition information structure maps to master objects. |
| US09043753B2 |
System and method for recommending software artifacts
A method for recommending at least one artifact to an artifact user is described. The method includes obtaining user characteristic information reflecting preferences, particular to the artifact user, as to a desired artifact. The method also includes obtaining first metadata about each of one or more candidate artifacts, and scoring, as one or more scored artifacts, each of the one or more candidate artifacts by evaluating one or more criteria, not particular to the artifact user, applied to the first metadata. The method further includes scaling, as one or more scaled artifacts, a score of each of the one or more scored artifacts, by evaluating the suitability of each of the one or more scored artifacts in view of the user characteristic information. The method lastly includes recommending to the artifact user at least one artifact from among the one or more scaled artifacts based on its scaled score. |