| Document | Document Title |
|---|---|
| US09067561B2 |
Vehicle seat harness anchoring system
A vehicle seat harness anchoring system is disclosed. The vehicle seat harness includes straps which fit over the body of a person and also fit over the legs of a person. Some of the straps are adjustable to securely hold the person in the harness. The harness anchoring system is attached to the vehicle seat harness. The harness anchoring system consists of a mixture of several fixed length and adjustable length anchoring straps. One end of the anchoring straps is either attached to an anchor plate or to an anchor point on a vehicle. The other end of the anchoring straps is attached to the vehicle seat harness. |
| US09067559B2 |
Vehicular seats
Embodiments of the present invention may include a vehicular seat having a seat pad, a seat cover, an airbag module, and webbing. The seat cover covers the seat pad. The airbag module is provided inside the seat pad, and has a bag body. The webbing is arranged so as to regulate a direction in which the bag body expands, and has a first portion provided integrally with the seat pad. |
| US09067556B2 |
Illuminated emblem assembly for connection to an airbag cover
Multi-piece constructions for an illuminated emblem assembly for connection to an airbag cover are provided herein. The multi-piece constructions include non-permanent means for connecting the illuminated emblem assembly to the airbag cover. An example emblem assembly can include an illumination source, an emblem portion having one or more translucent areas and a carrier portion. The emblem portion can include a decorative film and a lens, where the decorative film is coupled to the lens. The carrier portion can be configured to attach to the emblem portion. For example, the illumination source can be arranged between the emblem portion and the carrier portion when the emblem portion and the carrier portion are connected. The emblem portion and the illumination source can also be aligned such that at least one of the one or more translucent areas is illuminated by light passing through the emblem portion from the illumination source. |
| US09067553B1 |
Vehicle fascia integrated pushers
A vehicle includes a fascia, a bumper beam, and a sensor including a pressure chamber disposed between and along the fascia and bumper beam. The vehicle further includes a plurality of pusher blocks disposed between and along the fascia and bumper beam. The pusher blocks impinge upon the pressure chamber during fascia impact. Contact areas defined by the pusher blocks decrease toward a center of the pressure chamber and increase toward ends of the pressure chamber. |
| US09067552B1 |
Adaptive energy absorber for a vehicle
An energy absorption system, comprises a vehicle bumper. An energy absorption member is attached to the bumper, the energy absorption member comprising a first piece and a second piece. A linear actuator connects the energy absorption member to the bumper. The actuator may be actuated based on the speed information from the onboard vehicle communication network. |
| US09067549B2 |
Collision deflector assembly
A vehicle frame is provided having a frame. The frame includes a main rail and a lateral rail. A bracket is operably coupled to the main rail. The vehicle frame assembly also includes a wedged shape deflecting member. The wedged shape deflecting member has a first end which is operably coupled to the bracket and a second end which is operable between a standard use position and a collision event position. The standard use position is where the second end is spaced a predetermined distance from the main rail. The collision event position is when the second end is in abutting contact with the main rail. During a collision event, the second end moves from the standard use position to the collision event position such that the deflecting member absorbs and deflects energy imparted on the frame. |
| US09067545B2 |
Spring clip for use in a bracket assembly
Apparatus and methods provide a spring clip for use in a bracket assembly, such as a bracket assembly used to secure a ceiling panel to an aircraft or other vehicle or structure. According to embodiments described herein, a spring clip may include a spring portion according to a configuration of a space formed between a gonzo and a hinge. |
| US09067544B2 |
Vehicle interior component with stitching
A component for an interior of a vehicle may include inner, outer and intermediate layers, a support strip and a first thread. The outer layer may cover the inner layer. The intermediate layer may be disposed between the inner and outer layers and may be formed from a resiliently compressible material. The support strip may be at least partially received in a recess in the intermediate layer and may include an inward-facing surface and an outward-facing surface. The outward facing surface may be adjacent an inward-facing surface of the outer layer. The first thread may be stitched through the outer layer, the support strip, and the intermediate layer. |
| US09067543B2 |
Steering wheel assembly for a motor vehicle and method for operating a portable functional component
A steering wheel assembly is provided for a motor vehicle, including at least one actuating element disposed on the steering wheel for the actuation of a first functional component of the motor vehicle installed in the motor vehicle, and an electronic control unit configured to associate the actuating element with a portable second functional component located in an effective environment of the unit, for being actuated thereby. A method is providing for operating a portable second functional component in a motor vehicle including providing a steering wheel assembly having a plurality of user-operated actuating elements and selecting at least one actuating element from the number of available actuating elements by means of the portable second functional component. |
| US09067540B2 |
Storage box
Provided is a storage box comprising an outer panel and an inner panel which are easily and firmly combined with each other without employing vibrational welding or screws. The outer panel and the inner panel are integrally combined by claw engagement portions. The claw engagement portions comprise at least one positioning claw engagement portion for determining relative positions of the outer panel and the inner panel, and at least one undetectable claw engagement portion for restricting the outer panel and the inner panel from moving in directions to be separated from each other. |
| US09067538B2 |
Drive assist display apparatus
Provided is a drive assist display apparatus which displays a main view 20 showing an image of a wide backward area of the vehicle, and a sub view 21-3 showing a view point conversion image of a vicinity of the vehicle 1 as if looked down from a virtual viewpoint, the sub view 21-3 having a down side region where a thickness of the view point conversion image of the bumper 13 from the taken image is moderately represented and left and right side regions except the region of the bumper 13 where a taken image of an area around the vehicle is substantially shown, the sub view 21-3 formed as provided with a cutout section having a width corresponding to a width of the vehicle in accordance with a reduction scale of the view point conversion image, and the cutout section having sides rounded in form. |
| US09067536B2 |
LED whip light assembly
A light emitting diode (LED) whip light assembly includes a base and an LED light assembly. The base is configured to mount to an elongate whip rod. The LED light assembly is mounted to the base and includes a plurality of LED lights, an LED circuit, and a lens. The LED circuit includes a circuit board to which the plurality of LED lights are mounted. The lens is mounted to the base with a releasable, liquid-tight connection and covers the plurality of LED lights. |
| US09067534B2 |
Method and device for adjusting a light emission of at least one headlight of a vehicle
A method for adjusting a light emission of at least one headlight of a vehicle includes: a step for detecting an unstable travel condition of the vehicle defined as having a direction of a longitudinal axis of the vehicle differing by more than a tolerance range from a direction of motion of the vehicle; a step for providing a control signal for changing the light emission of the headlight of the vehicle in response to the detected unstable driving condition, the control signal being developed to effect a change in the light radiation characteristic of the at least one headlight of the vehicle, for adjusting the light emission. |
| US09067527B2 |
Wheel loss detection
A device and method for detecting wheel loss from a vehicle when the vehicle is in motion. The device (1) is provided with a housing (11) configured for, in use, mounting the device to a wheel (3) such that the device (1) abuts a wheel hub (5) of an axle to which the wheel is attached. A detector (6) is provided for detecting a proximity of the device (1) to the wheel hub (5), and a transmitter (8) is provided for sending an alarm signal in the event that the detector (6) detects that the device (1) is no longer in proximity to the wheel hub (5). In this way, if the wheel starts to become detached from the wheel hub, the detector (1) detects this and can send an alarm to, for example, a receiver unit in the drivers cabin, allowing the driver to take appropriate steps. |
| US09067525B1 |
Adjustable loading ramp system for a vehicle
A ramp system for a vehicle storage bed includes at least one longitudinal bed channel defining a longitudinal bed track. At least one longitudinal tailgate channel is recessed into an inner panel of the tailgate, aligned with the bed channel, and defines a longitudinal tailgate track. A lateral tailgate track is recessed into the inner panel and extends substantially transverse to and in communication with the bed/longitudinal tailgate tracks. At least one ramp member has a track member configured to be stowed in the bed channel in a stowed position and slidable in the bed/tailgate channels from the stowed position to a fully deployed position during which the track member moves along the respective bed/longitudinal tailgate tracks and into the lateral tailgate track without having to raise the track member out of the respective bed/longitudinal tailgate tracks. |
| US09067524B2 |
Container having a downwardly pivotable ramp wall, and method
A storage bin for bulk landscaping material includes a bin body having a bottom wall, a pair of parallel spaced side walls, and a rear end wall closing the rear end of the bin body, thereby to define a chamber that is open at its front end. A rectangular ramp wall is hingedly connected with the bottom wall at the front end of the bin body for displacement between a vertical position partially closing the chamber front end, and a downwardly inclined ramp position in engagement with the ground, whereby an unloading vehicle may be driven up the ramp to engage the bulk material. At least one first horizontal connecting bar is mounted at the forward end of the storage bin, whereby the bin may be transported to a site by a tilt flat bed transporting vehicle, and deposited in a controlled manner rear-end-first from the flat bed. |
| US09067517B1 |
Cantilevered vehicular seat with force distributing locks
A cantilevered vehicular seat with force distributing locks is disclosed. The seat is connectable to a support by linkage so the seat is movable relative to the support between a vertical stowable position and a horizontal position. The seat back is pivotally secured to the seat so that it is movable relative to the seat between a lowered position and a raised position. A self-locking pin lock and slot assembly releasably secures the seat back in the raised position when it is unfolded to distribute loads and make the seat sturdier. The pin lock and slot assembly has pivot arms secured to the ends of the seat at respective pivots. The arms operate the folding of the seat back relative to the seat. Slots formed in the seat back receive a retention pin and a lock pin carried by the pivot arms. The retention pin extends the length of the seat to reduce seat back chucking and distribute load to the vehicle. Another latch/lock assembly releasably self-locks the seat in the horizontal position. A self-locking fastener conveniently secures the seat in the vertical position when not in use. |
| US09067516B2 |
Child safety seat
A child safety seat includes a seat shell having a backrest portion, a headrest adjustable along a front surface of the backrest portion, a shoulder strap, and a panel assembled at the front surface. The shoulder strap is formed from a webbing material that passes through the front surface and extends at a front side of the backrest portion. The panel can cover a region of the backrest portion that becomes uncovered by the headrest at the front surface as a result of the headrest being adjusted downward. Moreover, the seat can include a transversal bar affixed with the backrest portion, and a latch located below the transversal bar. The latch has a locking structure operable to engage with the backrest portion to hold the headrest in place, the latch being assembled with the headrest about a pivot axis located between the transversal bar and the locking structure. |
| US09067514B2 |
Seat track
The present invention relates to a seat track comprising a fixed rail of a channel structure having laterally inner walls which extend vertically and have recesses; a moving rail sliding along the fixed rail and having laterally vertical walls which face the inner walls of the fixed rail and have a plurality of through holes; and a locking member having a supporting body received and installed between the vertical walls of the moving rail to face a plurality of the through holes, a plurality of rotating pins supported by the supporting body and rotating between a locking position where a plurality of the rotating pins are inserted in the recesses of the fixed rail through the through holes and an unlocking position where a plurality of the rotating pins are separated from the recesses, a guide spring supported by the supporting body and pressing a plurality of the rotating pins to rotate toward the unlocking position, and an unlocking body sliding along the supporting body due to an outer force to press a plurality of the rotating pins to rotate from the locking position to the unlocking position. Therefore, miniaturization and performance improvement can be accomplished compared to conventional technology. |
| US09067511B2 |
Thermoformed vehicle floor tray with treads
In a vehicle floor tray thermoformed from a sheet of thermoplastic polymeric material of substantially uniform thickness, a central panel includes a reservoir that has plural elongate hollow baffles which act to elevate the foot or shoe of the occupant above fluid collected by the reservoir, and also act to impede lateral movement of fluid in the reservoir. Heights of first and second side panels, measured at their junction, are substantially similar to each other. The vehicle floor tray may be one of a product line of such floor trays having the same functional characteristics but substantially conforming to respective and differently shaped foot wells in different vehicles. |
| US09067508B2 |
Seat occupancy determination apparatus
A seat occupancy determination apparatus includes first and second load detection portions arranged at one end of a seat in a width direction, a peak value detection portion detecting whether a peak value of a partial load value exists within a first predetermined time period in a case where the partial load value decreases to or below a first threshold value, and a first seat occupancy determination portion shifting a determination to a no occupant state in a case where the peak value is detected and a disengagement of a tongue plate from a buckle is detected within a predetermined time while an occupant seated state is determined. The first seat occupancy determination portion is inhibited from shifting the determination to the no occupant state in a case where the peak value is detected and the disengagement of the tongue plate is inhibited from being detected within the predetermined time. |
| US09067506B2 |
Vehicle and method of controlling vehicle
A vehicle includes an energy storage, a connecting portion, a lid box, a lid state detector, a vehicle speed detector, and a stop drive device. An external energy supply device is connected to the connecting portion when energy is supplied to the energy storage from the energy supply device. The lid box is to protect the connecting portion. The lid box includes a lid. The lid state detector is configured to detect an open state of the lid of the lid box. The vehicle speed detector is configured to detect a speed of the vehicle. The stop drive device is configured to prevent the vehicle from being driven if the open state of the lid is detected and if the speed of the vehicle is lower than or equal to a threshold stopped vehicle speed. |
| US09067505B2 |
System and method for cell balancing of battery pack
A system and method of cell balancing of a battery pack using a cell balancing device of a battery pack is provided and includes a controller that detects an inter-cell voltage deviation in the battery pack. In addition, the controller is configured to determine whether to perform cell balancing on the battery pack and inactivate a relay connected with the battery pack. The controller is further configured to perform cell balancing in the battery pack. |
| US09067501B2 |
System and method for adjusting balance of operation of hydraulic and electric actuators
A system for controlling power in a machine includes an interface and a controller configured to receive a signal indicative of a requested hydraulic operation of a hydraulic actuator corresponding to a requested hydraulic power level. The controller is further configured to receive a signal indicative of a requested electric operation of the electric actuator corresponding to a requested electric power level. The controller is also configured to provide a signal for supplying electric power to the electric actuator less than the requested electric power level based on an electric power output ratio, and provide a signal for supplying hydraulic power to the hydraulic actuator less than the requested hydraulic power level based on a hydraulic power output ratio. At least one of the electric power output ratio and the hydraulic power output ratio is adjustable via the interface. |
| US09067499B2 |
Arrangement and method for measurements on HV battery
An arrangement (1) for measuring current on a high voltage battery (12) for an electrical vehicle, wherein the battery comprises a service disconnect switch (13) which is adapted to break the connection between the positive battery terminal (14) and the positive battery output terminals (15). The connection between the positive battery terminal (14) and the positive battery output terminals (15) comprises an external circuit line (21) extending out of the service disconnect switch (13) such that a loop is created, which is adapted to receive a current clamp for measuring the current through the circuit line (21). |
| US09067495B2 |
System and method for operating vehicle drive wheels
An agricultural machine, such as a combine harvester, includes a chassis supported by a pair of front wheels and a pair of steerable rear wheels, a first drive mechanism for driving at least one of the front wheels to move the chassis at a designated forward speed, and a second drive mechanism configured to operate independently of the first drive mechanism and to drive at least one of the rear wheels. A controller is configured to actuate the second drive mechanism in response to a user command to drive the at least one rear wheel to apply forward pressure on the chassis regardless of the forward speed. The controller may actuate the second drive mechanism to apply a maximum forward torque to the at least one rear wheel to thereby apply the forward pressure to the chassis. |
| US09067494B2 |
Pedal force adjusting apparatus for accelerator pedal
A pedal force adjusting apparatus for an accelerator pedal regulates a resilient force of a resilient member through movement of an upper carrier and a lower carrier due to rotation of a lead screw. Accordingly, a pedal force of a pedal arm can be easily regulated if necessary. |
| US09067492B2 |
Transmission with integrated PTO input gear damper
A power take-off unit (“PTO”) may include a damper to reduce noise while the PTO is operating at low torque or at low RPM. The damper may also be located in the transmission before the PTO driver gear. A method may be used to systematically measure the frequency and/or amplitude of the vibrations that cause noise and to adjust the damping constant of a damper to reduce the noise. |
| US09067491B2 |
Drive apparatus for an electric automobile
Construction capable of improving the convenience of an electric automobile is achieved by making the drive apparatus for an electric automobile in which a planetary-gear transmission 11 is assembled more compact and simple, and increasing the distance traveled per charge. The planetary-gear transmission 11 comprises a single-pinion first planetary-gear mechanism 12 and a double-pinion second planetary-gear mechanism 13, and reduces power from an electric motor 1a by a desired reduction ratio before transmitting that power to a driven-side rotating shaft 5a. A first braking device 14 switches a ring gear 22 and a second braking device 15 switches a second sun gear 19 between a state of being allowed to rotate and a state of being prevented from rotating with respect to a fixed portion. |
| US09067486B2 |
Air cooling system for high voltage battery cell arrays
A vehicle is provided including a battery module with front and rear battery cell arrays arranged generally parallel to and spaced apart from one another. The battery module includes a cover having an inlet port proximate to the front battery cell array and arranged obliquely thereto. A blower unit is configured to draw air through the inlet port such that a first portion of the air travels into the front battery cell array. A tray cooperates with the front battery cell array to define a passageway configured to direct a second portion of the air underneath the front battery cell array. The tray also defines a ramp underneath, and extending substantially a length of, the rear battery cell array and is configured to direct the second portion of air into the rear array. |
| US09067478B2 |
Car roof conversion device
Invention relates to automotive industry, namely, to cars with convertible roofs. The roof front and rear sections 1, 2 are hinged together. The proposed device comprises a main moving support with a roof drive, a leverage drive mounted at said main support, a system of articulated levers and a drive stem hinged to said front and rear sections and leverage, as well as a drive of said main moving support and a drive of moving support inclination. Appropriate pendulum supports of said drives are secured at fixed points 1 of the car body. The roof rear section is provided with a tooth element, for example, a gear wheel fragment interacting with the roof drive. The leverage is articulated with the drive stem. Said drives comprise screw pairs, twin guides and motors with reduction gear to transmit rotation to the screw shafts. When roof is in a folded position, it provides increased trunk space. |
| US09067476B2 |
Temperature control apparatus for vehicle
A temperature control apparatus for a vehicle is provided that includes an electric device that is cooled by circulating cooling fluid. A heater core is disposed adjacent to an interior heat exchanger of a heat pump to receive the cooling fluid that has cooled the electric device. In addition, the apparatus includes a first valve that controls the supply of the cooling fluid from the electric device to the heater core. Accordingly, using the temperature control apparatus, air-conditioning performance of vehicles, is improved using heat generated from electric devices, together with a heat pump, when the vehicles, such as hybrid or electric vehicles, are equipped with electric devices, such as a motor, an inverter, and a converter and the electric devices are air-conditioned using the heat pump. |
| US09067474B2 |
Gear with idle zones
The present teachings provide for a door linkage system including a drive side and a driven side. The drive side includes a drive gear and a drive arm. The driven side includes a driven gear configured to mesh with the drive gear and a guide plate in cooperation with the drive arm. The drive side moves the driven side between an open position and a closed position. Proximate to the open and the closed positions, the drive arm moves the driven side. Between the open and the closed positions, the drive gear moves the driven side. |
| US09067471B2 |
Piston assembly with open bleed
A shock absorber includes a piston which has at least one compression fluid passage, at least one rebound fluid passage and at least one bleed fluid passage. A compression valve assembly closes the at least one compression passage and a rebound valve assembly closes the at least one rebound passage. A bleed valve assembly with the bleed fluid passage defines a first, always open flow path through the piston and a second flow path, separate from the first flow path, through the piston. A bleed disc is movable between a first position where the second flow path is open and a second position where the second flow path is closed. |
| US09067470B2 |
Hydraulic shock absorber
An object of the present invention is to ensure that, during adjustment of a spring load by an adjuster, total fully-stretched lengths of an outer tube and an inner tube remain unchanged and the adjuster is prevented from protruding from an upper surface of a cap. In a hydraulic shock absorber 10, a spring load adjusting device 30 is configured such that an adjuster 31 is provided at an upper end portion of a vehicle body side tube 11, a push rod 33 that is moved up and down by the adjuster 31 is penetrated into a hollow portion of a hollow rod 23, a suspension spring 35 is pressurized by the push rod 33 that protrudes from the hollow portion of the hollow rod 23 to the inside of a wheel side tube 12, and the spring load of the suspension spring 35 can be adjusted by the up-and-down motion of the push rod 33 caused by the adjuster 31. |
| US09067469B2 |
Wheel stabilization mechanism and method
A wheel stabilization mechanism includes an actuator configured to be coupled to a vehicle body and a wheel stabilizer configured to be movably coupled to the vehicle body such that the wheel stabilizer is configured to move with respect to a wheel. The actuator is configured to move the wheel stabilizer with respect to the wheel from a disengaged position toward an engaged position in response to a force applied to the vehicle body. In the engaged position, the wheel stabilizer is configured to inhibit at least a portion of the wheel from moving with respect to the vehicle body to minimize movement of the wheel with respect to the vehicle body. |
| US09067466B2 |
Diversity antenna
An electronic component in a vehicle tire condition monitor system includes a first antenna, a second antenna, and a processor. The first antenna is oriented at an angle with respect to the second antenna. Both of the antennas are capable of receiving RF signals transmitted from a sensor associated with a respective tire of the vehicle. The RF signals represent a condition of the respective tire. The processor receives the RF signals transmitted by the sensor from at least one of the antennas. The first and second antennas receive the condition signals from any of a plurality of the sensors associated with respective tires on the vehicle. |
| US09067465B2 |
Tubeless rim seal for a laced wheel
A rim seal and method of manufacturing are provided. A rim seal segment is provided having two free ends and being constructed of a sealing material having a contoured cross-sectional profile. The rim seal segment has a length shorter than a circumference of the rim seal. The two free ends are inserted into a mold in spaced relationship with each other, and a connector is molded between the two free ends to connect the free ends and transform the rim seal segment into a continuous circumferential rim seal. A valve stem may be molded into the connector. A tire-facing surface defined by the combination of the rim portion and an outer surface of the rim seal has a profile conforming to an industry standard. |
| US09067456B2 |
Fold and play greeting card
A two dimensional die cut greeting card with sections of the greeting card die cut and creased so that they can be removed from the card without the need for scissors or other cutting tools and which can be assembled by folding and engaging the die cut sections without the need for tape, glue or other connectors into a three dimensional object. A two dimensional message delivery system is convertible into a three dimensional object. |
| US09067455B2 |
Tabbed paper for annotation of documents including book inserts
Transparent or substantially transparent sheets of paper or similar material suitable for inserting into a book or placed over a document are used to highlight or annotate a document without permanently marking or damaging the page. The inserts are thin enough so as to allow several inserts to be placed within a book without significantly increasing the book thickness or distorting the shape and size of the book when closed. Additionally, the inserts contain one or more tabs to allow a user to index and quickly find a particular insert and the corresponding page. An adhesive is present on the rear side of the insert to fix the insert to the page being annotated. |
| US09067453B2 |
Book production system, method and program storage medium
The disclosed book production system and method allow a book block and flexible book cover for that book block to be printed in the same print job immediately prior to binding. Specifically, a user-selection indicates that a book print job contains both the book block and the cover. Raster image processing is performed to produce raster images based on all page descriptions in the print job. The raster images are sorted by size to identify first raster images for the book block pages and to identify at least one second raster image, which is more than twice as large as any of the first raster images, for the cover. The pages for the book block and the cover can be printed on first print media sheets and on a second larger print media sheet, respectively. Then, the cover can be bound to the book block by an in-line bookbinder. |
| US09067451B2 |
Laser markable security film
A security film including, in order, a transparent biaxially oriented polyethylene terephthalate support (1), a subbing layer (2, 2′) and a laser markable layer (3, 3′) comprising a laser additive and one or more polymers selected from the group consisting of polystyrene, polycarbonate and styrene acrylonitrile. |
| US09067448B2 |
Pre-treatment composition for inkjet printing
A coating composition for pre-treating a substrate prior to inkjet printing thereon, and an inkjet receiving medium including a substrate and having a topmost layer coated thereon, where the coating composition has a solids content which includes at least 30 wt % of one or more aqueous soluble salts of multivalent metal cations, and particles had primarily of polymer having a Rockwell Hardness of less than R90 and having a mode equivalent spherical diameter of at least about 2 micrometers. When coated, the composition provides at least 0.01 g/m2 of particles included primarily of polymer having a Rockwell Hardness of less than R90 and which have an equivalent spherical diameter of i) at least about 2 micrometers and ii) at least 0.1 micrometer greater than the minimum coated thickness of the topmost layer. |
| US09067446B1 |
System for detecting inoperative inkjets in three-dimensional object printing using a test pattern and an ultrasonic sensor
A printer detects inoperative inkjets during printing of three dimensional objects. The printer includes a substrate onto which a printhead ejects building and support material in a test pattern. An ultrasonic sensor scans the substrate on the unprinted side and measures thicknesses at a plurality of locations on the substrate. The thickness measurements are used to identify inoperative inkjets in the printhead and the printing of an object can be suspended to take remedial action with regard to the printhead before formation of the object is completed. |
| US09067444B2 |
Recording apparatus
A recording apparatus includes a transport mechanism and a plurality of cleaning sections. The transport mechanism has an adhesive belt configured and arranged to support a target recording medium thereon to intermittently transport the target recording medium. The cleaning sections are arranged from an upstream side to a downstream side along the adhesive belt in a moving direction to clean the adhesive belt. A distance between the cleaning sections is different to a transport distance which results from one cycle of intermittent transporting of the target recording medium and is also different to a cumulative transport distance which results from a plurality of times of intermittent transporting of the target recording medium. |
| US09067442B2 |
Medium cartridge and medium printer with a cartridge
This disclosure discloses a medium cartridge that comprises a first record medium roll that winds a record medium in a manner that enables feed-out. The medium cartridge is configured to be mounted to a printer. In the printer, a print mechanism configured to perform print on the record medium is provided movably along a medium-width direction of the record medium with respect to an opening/closing cover capable of opening and closing at least an area above a part of an apparatus housing. The medium cartridge comprises a positioning contacting part. The positioning contacting part is configured to separate from a contacted part provided on the print mechanism with the opening/closing cover open. Further, the positioning contacting part is configured to contact the contacted part of the print mechanism and position the print mechanism in the medium-width direction with the opening/closing cover closed. |
| US09067441B2 |
Medium cartridge and printer
The disclosure discloses a medium cartridge includes a first record medium roll, a second record medium roll, and a connecting arm. The first record medium roll is stored in a first storage part. The second record medium roll is stored in a second storage part. The connecting arm connects the first record medium roll and the second record medium roll, and comprises first bracket parts and second bracket parts. The first bracket parts sandwich the first record medium roll to hold the first record medium roll. The pair of second bracket parts sandwich the second record medium roll to hold the second record medium roll. The first bracket parts comprises a substantially oval-shaped first guide part capable of entering a first lead-in groove. The second bracket parts comprises a substantially circular-shaped second guide part capable of entering a second lead-in. |
| US09067440B2 |
Information processing method, printing apparatus, and computer-readable medium for supressing light scattering
An information processing apparatus for generating print data for a printing apparatus that forms an image on a printing medium with a plurality of types of printing materials. An acquisition unit acquires light scattering characteristic information representing a light scattering characteristic of each of the plurality of types of printing materials. A decision unit decides an order of superposing the plurality of types of printing materials in a predetermined region of the image in accordance with the acquired light scattering characteristic information such that a printing material having a relatively high light scattering characteristic is printed on a relatively lower layer on the printing medium. A generation unit generates the print data to form the image on the printing medium using the plurality of types of printing materials in accordance with the decided order. |
| US09067438B2 |
Sheet conveying device and image forming apparatus
A sheet conveying device includes a conveyance belt, an air intake portion, and a charging member. The conveyance belt has a sheet placing surface on which a sheet is placed and a plurality of belt openings penetrating the sheet placing surface, and conveys the sheet placed on the sheet placing surface. The air intake portion draws air from a side of a back surface opposite to the sheet placing surface through the belt openings. The charging member has a surface which is shaped in such a manner as to contact the sheet placing surface while avoiding the belt openings and charges the sheet placing surface. |
| US09067436B2 |
Method and apparatus for determining a degree of cure in an ultraviolet printing system
An approach is provided for determining a degree of curing of one or more ultraviolet sensitive inks. The approach involves causing, causing, at least in part, one or more ultraviolet inks to be applied to a substrate to form an image. The approach also involves causing, at least in part, the image to be exposed to ultraviolet light produced by one or more ultraviolet light sources to cause, at least in part, the one or more ultraviolet inks to be cured to form a cured image. The approach additionally involves determining a reflectance value of the cured image. The approach further involves determining a degree of cure of the cured image based, at least in part, on the reflectance value. The approach may be used to alter the degree of curing of another image applied to a substrate. |
| US09067426B2 |
Ink cartridge assembly, cartridge assembly kit, and printer
A cartridge assembly includes a plurality of ink cartridges each having a cartridge case that holds ink therein, and at least one connecting member that connects the plurality of ink cartridges together in a connection direction. The ink cartridges connected by the at least one connecting member are movable relative to each other in the connection direction of the ink cartridges. |
| US09067425B2 |
Fluid cartridge for an inkjet printer
A fluid cartridge for an inkjet printer includes an inner reservoir containing a printing fluid. The reservoir includes walls enclosing an internal space having a variable volume for storage of the printing fluid and a port for dispensing the printing liquid. The reservoir includes a rigid framework and one or more elastically deformable sections. The cartridge further includes an outlet for connection to the printer, an outer housing in which the reservoir is housed, an electronic storage device configured to store data relating to the contents of the cartridge, and at least one electrical contact associated with the electronic storage device and provided on a substrate. The reservoir provides a reduction in pressure of the internal space whereby the equilibrium pressure difference between the internal space and the surrounding atmosphere increases substantially monotonically in magnitude as liquid is dispensed. |
| US09067421B2 |
Inkjet printer
An ink jet printer according to the present invention includes a liquid accommodation body which is provided with a liquid accommodation chamber which accommodates a liquid that generates a gas as time elapses due to a chemical change in contained components, a liquid flow port which communicates with the liquid accommodation chamber and allows the liquid to flow therethrough, and a gas flow port which communicates with the liquid accommodation chamber and allows the gas to flow therethrough; a recording head which communicates with the liquid flow port and ejects the liquid which flows out from the liquid flow port; and gas discharge means which communicates with the gas flow port and allows the gas to flow out to outside of the liquid accommodation body. |
| US09067418B2 |
Image recording device
An image recording device includes a support member, a print head, a guide mechanism and a maintenance unit. The print head is configured to eject a liquid from a nozzle at a first position facing the support member. The guide mechanism is configured to guide movement of the print head among the first position, a second position, and a third position. The maintenance unit is configured to carry out maintenance on the print head which is located at the second position, the maintenance unit being arranged at a position facing the print head which is located at the second position. The third position is a position farther than the second position with respect to the first position in a direction going from the support member toward the maintenance unit in the orthogonal direction. |
| US09067414B2 |
Liquid ejection head and method of driving the same
A liquid ejection head includes a plurality of ejection orifices, liquid chambers, piezoelectric actuators, and driving units, and a control unit. Each ejection orifice ejects liquid, each liquid chamber communicates individually with an ejection orifice, each piezoelectric actuator is disposed individually for a liquid chamber and generates energy to eject liquid, and each driving unit individually drives a piezoelectric actuator. The control unit controls each driving unit to output a first voltage pulse to eject liquid or a second voltage pulse to vibrate a meniscus of liquid in a state in which the meniscus is held in a liquid chamber. The control unit selects ejection orifices used to eject liquid and controls to output the first voltage pulse to them, and selects ejection orifices not used to eject liquid and controls to output the second voltage pulse to them to perform respective concurrent recording and recovery operations. |
| US09067413B2 |
Liquid jet head and liquid jet apparatus
A liquid jet head is provided with laminated head chips forming a laminated structure. Each of the head chips has an actuator portion and a nozzle plate bonded to a first end face of the actuator portion. The actuator portion of each head chip has a filter, a first liquid chamber communicating to a downstream side of the filter, a channel communicating to the first liquid chamber for inducing pressure on liquid therein, and an electrode terminal for transmitting a drive signal to the channel. The nozzle plate has a nozzle communicating to the channel of the actuator portion. The surfaces of the nozzle plates of the respective head chips are flush with one another. |
| US09067408B2 |
Printing media supportable on movable pallets
A media transport assembly includes a plurality of pallets arranged to circulate on an endless track through a print zone and a handling zone. In the print zone, the pallets are temporarily grouped together to support and move a print media during printing at a substantially constant velocity. In the handling zone, the pallets are spaced apart from each other as they circulate back to the print zone without supporting any print media. |
| US09067406B2 |
Screen printer
A pressing mechanism that presses a dam member 30 against a screen mask 12 has a guide shaft 32 that guides a direction of movement of the dam member 30 during pressing operation and a compression spring 33 that forces the dam member 30 in an axial direction of the guide shaft 32. A printing pressure value at which the dam member 30 is pressed against the screen mask 12 is made stable, to thus make stable an effect of preventing effluence of the paste to the outside of a print width on the screen mask 12. |
| US09067405B2 |
Printing device for containers
A printing device for containers, such as bottles, cans or cups, with a screen to apply a screen print onto the containers, where a squeegee holding device that is guided by a continuous track holds an squeegee in such a way that while the printed image is being applied to the container, one end of the squeegee scrapes across the screen and forces ink through the screen onto one of the containers, and where the distance between the end of the squeegee and the squeegee holding device varies. Also, a container handling device, in the manner of a bottling plant, with such a printing device and a mechanical turret designed to guide the containers to a surface of the container contact device facing away from the squeegee. Also, a method for applying ink to containers in accordance with a screen printing principle. |
| US09067402B1 |
Forming an image on a flexographic media
A method for forming an image on a flexographic plate includes exposing a back of the flexographic plate to form a floor; providing a screened image; locating isolated dots on the screened image; exposing a front of the flexographic plate to form the image, isolated dots and scaffold dots adjacent to the isolated dots; wherein the scaffold dots do not extend to the floor; and applying a solvent to wash away the unexposed material and the scaffold dots from the flexographic plate. |
| US09067401B2 |
Process for making lithographic printing plate and lithographic printing plate
A process for making a lithographic printing plate that includes in sequence an exposure step of imagewise exposing by means of an infrared laser a lithographic printing plate precursor that has provided above a support a positive-working recording layer including (Component A) a (meth)acrylonitrile-derived monomer unit- and styrene-derived monomer unit-containing copolymer, (Component B) a water-insoluble and alkali-soluble resin, and (Component C) an infrared absorbing agent and a development step of developing, using an aqueous alkali solution including a betaine-based surfactant or a nonionic surfactant, the aqueous alkali solution having a pH of 8.5 to 10.8, by removing an exposed area of the positive-working recording layer whose solubility in aqueous alkali solution has been increased by the exposure. There is also provided a lithographic printing plate made by the process for making a lithographic printing plate. |
| US09067400B2 |
Lithographic printing plate precursor and method of preparing lithographic printing plate
A lithographic printing plate precursor includes a support and one or more layers, one of the one or more layers is a photosensitive layer containing an initiator compound, a polymerizable compound and a binder polymer, and a layer being in contact with the support of the one or more layers contains a copolymer containing a repeating unit having a zwitterionic structure and a repeating unit having a structure capable of interacting with a surface of the support. |
| US09067398B2 |
Method for disassembling bonded body, and adhesive
Provided is a method for disassembling a bonded body, whereby the bonded body can be easily disassembled and peeled. The method for disassembling a bonded body formed by bonding substrates with an adhesive comprises irradiating light having a wavelength of 280 nm or more such that irradiation energy is 1000-5000000 mJ/cm2 at a wavelength of 365 nm while heating the bonded body to 150° C.-300° C. |
| US09067393B2 |
Method of transferring carbon conductive film
Disclosed is a method of transferring a carbon conductive film, including: providing a first substrate, and forming an inorganic oxide layer on a surface of the first substrate, wherein the inorganic oxide layer has a total surface energy of 30 mJ/m2 to 75 mJ/m2, and a dispersive surface energy to the total surface energy ratio of 0.4 to 0.8. A carbon dispersion is coated on the inorganic oxide layer, and then dried to form a carbon conductive film on the inorganic oxide layer. The carbon conductive film is dipped into a solvent to separate the carbon conductive film and the inorganic oxide layer. The separated carbon conductive film is attached to a second substrate, thereby transferring the carbon conductive film onto the second substrate. |
| US09067389B2 |
Transparent plastic composite
The invention describes a transparent plastics composite composed of PMMA and TPU with excellent mechanical properties. |
| US09067385B2 |
High kinetic energy penetrator shielding and high wear resistance materials fabricated with boron nitride nanotubes (BNNTs) and BNNT polymer composites
Boron nitride nanotubes (BNNTs), boron nitride nanoparticles (BNNPs), carbon nanotubes (CNTs), graphites, or combinations, are incorporated into matrices of polymer, ceramic or metals. Fibers, yarns, and woven or nonwoven mats of BNNTs are used as toughening layers in penetration resistant materials to maximize energy absorption and/or high hardness layers to rebound or deform penetrators. They can be also used as reinforcing inclusions combining with other polymer matrices to create composite layers like typical reinforcing fibers such as Kevlar®, Spectra®, ceramics and metals. Enhanced wear resistance and usage time are achieved by adding boron nitride nanomaterials, increasing hardness and toughness. Such materials can be used in high temperature environments since the oxidation temperature of BNNTs exceeds 800° C. in air. Boron nitride based composites are useful as strong structural materials for anti-micrometeorite layers for spacecraft and space suits, ultra strong tethers, protective gear, vehicles, helmets, shields and safety suits/helmets for industry. |
| US09067384B2 |
Microporous material having degradation properties and articles prepared therefrom
The present invention is directed to biodegradable microporous materials and multi-layer articles containing them. The biodegradable microporous materials comprise: (a) a polyolefin matrix, (b) finely divided, particulate filler distributed throughout the matrix, (c) at least 35 percent by volume of a network of interconnecting pores communicating throughout the microporous material, and (d) a biodegradation promoting material distributed throughout the matrix. Also provided are multilayer articles prepared from the above-described microporous materials. |
| US09067383B2 |
Flexible and rollable cementitious membrane and method of manufacturing it
In a preferred embodiment, a membrane for use as an underlayment includes a basemat, which includes at least three plies, a ply of a meltblown polymer sandwiched between two plies of spunbond polymer; and a flexible coating applied to the basemat, the coating having a cementitious hydraulic component, a polymer comprising a water-soluble, film-forming polymer; and water. The finished membrane is flexible. Another embodiment for an underlayment for use underneath ceramic tiles includes a basemat and a coating of a set hydraulic component less than ⅛″ inches thick.A method of making the flexible membrane includes assembling components including a hydraulic component, a water-soluble, film-forming polymer and water, then mixing them to form a coating. A basemat is provided onto which the coating is applied over a flexible surface or no surface. After coating at least one face of the basemat, the coating is dried to form the membrane. |
| US09067375B2 |
Device for guiding and texturing a plurality of synthetic threads
The exemplary embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 1 to 3 of the device according to the invention is by way of example with respect to the structure and arrangement of the individual assemblies. In principle, it is also possible for the godet assigned to the texturing unit 3 to guide the threads only with a single partial looping. The invention is thus particularly suitable for producing a uniform crimp on each tread in a thread group of a plurality of threads. The number of threads within the thread group is shown by way of example with three threads. The tread group can contain two or more threads. The invention is particularly advantageous in the use of what are known as twist texturing nozzles, in which a twist is produced on the incoming thread. By avoiding friction points and deflections, and identical effect of the twist can be obtained on each of the supplied threads. In addition, very compact arrangements can be realized, since the texturing nozzles can be arranged at a relatively short distance downstream of the godet. Minimum distances for maintaining maximum angles of deflection are not necessary. Thus, even relatively large differences between guiding distance and the treatment distance can be realized at a short distance between the godet and the texturing unit. |
| US09067372B2 |
Lens molds having atmospheric plasma coatings thereon
The invention provides a method of making ophthalmic lenses with an enhanced quality and enhanced yield achieved by reducing mold separation force and lens-mold adhesion. The method comprises the steps of generating an atmospheric plasma flow from a working gas and controlling the continuity of the atmospheric plasma flow with a power generator, and, introducing the atmospheric plasma flow to a molding surface of a mold for making an ophthalmic lens (preferably contact lens, more preferably a silicone hydrogel contact lens) and increasing the surface hydrophobicity of the molding surface of the mold and thereby to reduce a mold separation force after molding a lens formulation in the mold. |
| US09067370B2 |
Method of molding complex composite parts using pre-plied multi-directional continuous fiber laminate
Layers of unidirectional (UD) fiber prepreg are formed into a pre-plied, multi-directional, continuous fiber laminate that is used as a molding compound to form three dimensional structures. Cut-outs from the laminate are slotted and folded along fold lines to provide near-net-shaped preforms that may be compression molded to form fiber-reinforced composite structures having complex shapes. |
| US09067369B2 |
Tire puncture sealant
An object of the present invention is to provide a tire puncture sealant whereby both sealing performance and storage performance can be achieved. A tire puncture sealant is provided that includes a natural rubber latex, an antifreezing agent, and an acrylic emulsion. A mass ratio of a solid content of the natural rubber latex to a solid content of the acrylic emulsion (natural rubber/acrylic resin) is from 50/50 to 15/85. An amount of the antifreezing agent is from 100 to 300 parts by mass per 100 parts by mass of a total of the solid content of the natural rubber latex and the solid content of the acrylic emulsion. The total of the solid content of the natural rubber latex and the solid content of the acrylic emulsion is from 20 to 40 mass % of a total mass of the tire puncture sealant. |
| US09067360B2 |
Device and method for generative production
The invention relates to a process for producing products having a specific geometry, in particular dental prostheses or auxiliary dental parts, comprising the steps of producing a plurality of products on the surface of a substrate plate by selective curing, in particular by selective sintering or melting, wherein the material is applied in successive layers, one or a plurality of predetermined regions are selectively cured by means of high-energy radiation and joined to one or a plurality of regions of the subjacent layer after each application of a layer, wherein the predetermined regions are predetermined according to a cross-sectional geometry of the product in the respective layer. According to the invention, a substrate plate is provided which is subdivided into a first substrate plate segment and at least one further substrate plate segment that are detachably joined to each other or to a base carrier, a first product is produced on the first substrate plate segment by applying successive layers of material onto the first substrate plate segment and selectively curing predetermined regions of each applied layer of material after it has been applied, and at least one further product is produced on the at least one further substrate plate segment by applying successive layers of material onto the further substrate plate segment and selectively curing predetermined regions of each applied layer of material after it has been applied. The invention also relates to an apparatus for conducting such a process. |
| US09067358B2 |
Molding apparatus for glass molded product
A molding apparatus for glass molded product includes a mold, a press shaft and a release device. The release device includes a release member, a push bar, and a release action mechanism. The release member has a lower end surface to face an outer peripheral portion of a molding surface of the lower die of the mold. The push bar adjusts a downward pressure given to the release member. The release action mechanism is provided to hold an upper portion of the push bar movably along a shaft direction of the press shaft. The release action mechanism moves the push bar and the release member downward along the shaft direction to release a glass material and the upper die of the mold when the upper die and the lower die are separated after the glass material has been pressed between the upper die and the lower die. |
| US09067357B2 |
Method for deforming a web
Methods for forming discrete deformations in web materials are disclosed. In some embodiments, the method involves feeding a web into an apparatus having nips that are formed between intermeshing rolls. The apparatus may be in the form of nested or other arrangements of multiple rolls, in which the web is maintained in substantial contact with at least one of the rolls throughout the process, and at least two of the rolls define two or more nips thereon with other rolls. In some embodiments, rolls can be used to expose a different side of the web for a subsequent deformation step. In these or other embodiments, the rolls can be used to transfer the web between rolls in such a manner that it may offset the rolls and/or web so that subsequent deformations are formed at a different cross-machine direction location than prior deformations. |
| US09067355B2 |
Lock member for an injection molding machine
A lock assembly for releasably coupling a platen to a tie bar of an injection molding machine includes first and second lock nut segments translatable in a transverse between locked and unlocked positions for respectively engaging and disengaging the tie bar, and a carrier assembly for coupling the lock nut segments to the platen. The carrier assembly provides a slide surface for slidably supporting the lock nut segments during the translation of the lock nut segments between the locked and unlocked positions, and the carrier assembly resiliently supports the slide surface for axial movement of the slide surface with the lock nut segments between an unloaded position in which the lock nut segments are spaced away from the platen by a clearance gap, and a loaded position in which the lock nut segments bear against the platen. |
| US09067354B2 |
Apparatus for the shaping of plastics material pre-forms into plastics material containers with magnetically actuated locking
An apparatus is provided for the shaping of plastic pre-forms into containers with at least one blow moulding station arranged on a movable carrier, and having a blow mould carrier, a first blow mould carrier part and a second blow mould carrier part which is pivotable relative to the first blow mould carrier part to open and close the blow mould. The blow moulding station additionally has a locking mechanism to lock the first blow mould carrier part with respect to the second blow mould carrier part, and the locking mechanism has a first locking element on the first blow mould carrier part, and a second locking element on the second blow mould carrier part, for locking the carrier parts. A first magnetic element is movable relative to the first locking element and causes a movement of the first locking element by a magnetic interaction to lock the carrier parts. |
| US09067352B2 |
System and process for shot-injection molding an eyeglass temple with a wire core
A system and process for making an eyeglass temple co-injection molded with a wire core are disclosed. An eyeglass temple is produced by injecting a first shot of temple substrate material into a mold followed by the shot injection of a portion of wire core into the substrate material while it is still molten or semi-molten followed by a second shot injection of additional molten or semi-molten material to completely fill the mold. The first shot of template substrate is provided in a viscosity and amount sufficient to support the wire core without contact by the mold or external support, and the second shot is provided in an amount sufficient to completely fill and pack the mold and lessen shrinkage problems during substrate cooling and hardening. This produces an eyeglass temple in a desired configuration having an entirely encased wire core. Optionally, a second material can then be overmolded onto portions of the temple. The first material and reinforcing core allow greater adjustability and increased comfort for the wearer, while the second material can either be softer to provide a more comfortable fit and feel or can be similar to the first material to improve the temple's aesthetics. |
| US09067349B2 |
Apparatus and method for manufacturing products
A method of manufacturing products comprising an outer casing of a first material (12) and containing at least one chamber (18) filled with a second material (14) comprises extruding the first material through a die (10) to form an extrudate body (16) and delivering the second material through at least one fluid outlet (22) in the die to form the least one filled chamber. The extrusion process is varied periodically and momentarily to produce sections (30) of extrudate body having no filled chamber. In one embodiment, the flow of the second material (14) is periodically reduced to form the unfilled sections. The flow of the second material (14) may be reduced by increasing the volume of a supply path for the second material upstream from the die (10). Apparatus for carrying out the method is also disclosed. The method and apparatus are particularly adapted for producing food, and especially confectionery, products. |
| US09067346B2 |
Seal and procedure for its production
A seal comprising a sealing ring (1) and a slide ring (2) wherein the slide ring (2) is provided on the side of the sealing ring (1) that faces the surface to be sealed. The sealing ring (1) and the slide ring (2) are designed in one piece by molding the sealing ring (1) to the slide ring (2) in a mold cavity that forms the slide ring into a cylindrical shape. |
| US09067345B2 |
Mold for manufacture of fiber composite parts and method of manufacture of fiber composite parts with such a mold
A mold to produce fiber composite components is described where a fiber ply with matrix material (matrix material/resin) is saturated. The mold consists of a lower mold and an upper mold which is placed on top of the lower mold with intermediate fiber ply. The lower mold and upper mold have a contour matching each other and for the desired fiber composite component. The upper mold and the lower mold are made of a flexible material. |
| US09067344B2 |
Mold and method for producing plastic lens
A mold 1 includes a mold assembly 2 and an injection aid member 3 attached to the mold assembly. The mold assembly 2 includes a first mold 21 and a second mold 22 which are opposed to each other, a tape member 23 connecting the outer peripheries of the first mold 21 and the second mold 22, a cavity 24 to which a plastic lens material is injected, and a through hole 25 which makes a portion of the cavity 24 open. The injection aid member 3 includes a first opening 33 opposed to the through hole 25 of the mold assembly 2, a second opening 34 connected to the first opening 33, an attachment 32 provided around the first opening 33 and firmly attached to the mold assembly 2. |
| US09067341B2 |
Two-component composition for producing flexible polyurethane gel coats
The invention relates to the use of a two-component composition comprising a polyol component and a polyisocyanate component, for producing flexible polyurethane gel coats for epoxy-resin and vinyl-ester resin composite materials. |
| US09067338B2 |
Method to convert waste silicon to high purity silicon
A process for the recovery of silicon includes providing silicon-containing solids recovered from a silicon manufacturing process, said recovered silicon-containing solids being substantially free of semiconductor dopants; converting the recovered silicon-containing solids into gaseous silicon forms; subjecting to purification by minimal distillation; collecting the gaseous silicon forms as a condensed liquid of silicon-containing compounds; and utilizing the silicon-containing compounds for silicon deposition. |
| US09067337B2 |
Image forming apparatus and stapler
An image forming apparatus having a stapler includes an image forming unit configured to form an image on a recording material, a power source configured to supply electric power to the image forming unit and the stapler, and a control unit configured to control the operation of the stapler. In the image forming apparatus, a time period for prohibiting the operation of the stapler is set such that a total of a power consumption of the image forming unit and a power consumption of the stapler is equal to or less than an electric power the power source can supply so as to perform the operation of the stapler and the operation of the image forming unit partially in parallel with each other. |
| US09067335B2 |
Resilient finger scrap stripper for corrugated board rotary cutting die
An apparatus configured to cooperate with a rotating anvil to cut corrugated board comprises a rotary cutting die configured to rotate in one direction and to cooperate with the anvil to cut corrugated board. The cutting die includes a base and at least one scrap cutting blade and a scrap stripper that comprises one or more fingers that project from the base at an incline and which is slanted forwardly in the direction of rotation of the cutting die for stripping cut scrap pieces of corrugated board from the blade. |
| US09067331B2 |
Waterjet cutting system fluid conduits and associated methods
Various embodiments of waterjet cutting systems are described herein. In one embodiment, a waterjet cutting system includes a waterjet cutting device coupled to a pressurized water source. The waterjet cutting device includes a waterjet cutting head and a fluid conduit configured to carry pressurized water to the waterjet cutting head. The fluid conduit has a wall defining a longitudinal passage through which the pressurized water travels. The fluid conduit also has a through hole extending from the outer surface of the wall to the longitudinal passage. The through hole has a cross-sectional shape with a maximum longitudinal dimension generally parallel to the longitudinal passage and a maximum latitudinal dimension generally perpendicular to the longitudinal passage. In one aspect of this embodiment, the maximum longitudinal dimension is greater than the maximum latitudinal dimension. Methods of forming fluid conduits according to various embodiments are also described herein. |
| US09067329B2 |
System and method for both slicing and holding a food product
Article of manufacture for holding sliced food, the article comprising an outer rim and a base provided therein, characterized in that the base comprises a number of cutting elements extending radially inward from the outer rim, each cutting element having a cutting edge. |
| US09067326B2 |
System and method of controlling ankles of walking robot
Disclosed herein is a system and method of controlling one or more ankles of a walking robot. In the above system and method, an input torque u to be applied to an ankle of a robot is obtained by compensating a target torque τd with an acting torque τc measured using a sensor and applied by a support surface and then an actual torque τ applied by the ankle of a foot is instead fed back into the control system. Therefore, proper balance of the walking robot is ensured. |
| US09067325B2 |
Human grasp assist device soft goods
A grasp assist system includes a glove and a flexible sleeve. The glove includes a digit such as a finger or thumb, a force sensor configured to measure a grasping force applied to an object by an operator wearing the glove, and adjustable phalange rings positioned with respect to the digit. A saddle is positioned with respect to the finger. A flexible tendon is looped at one end around the saddle. A conduit contains the tendon. A conduit anchor secured within a palm of the glove receives the conduit. The sleeve has pockets containing an actuator assembly connected to another end of the tendon and a controller. The controller is in communication with the force sensor, and calculates a tensile force in response to the measured grasping force. The controller commands the tensile force from the actuator assembly to tension the tendon and thereby move the finger. |
| US09067319B2 |
Fast grasp contact computation for a serial robot
A system includes a controller and a serial robot having links that are interconnected by a joint, wherein the robot can grasp a three-dimensional (3D) object in response to a commanded grasp pose. The controller receives input information, including the commanded grasp pose, a first set of information describing the kinematics of the robot, and a second set of information describing the position of the object to be grasped. The controller also calculates, in a two-dimensional (2D) plane, a set of contact points between the serial robot and a surface of the 3D object needed for the serial robot to achieve the commanded grasp pose. A required joint angle is then calculated in the 2D plane between the pair of links using the set of contact points. A control action is then executed with respect to the motion of the serial robot using the required joint angle. |
| US09067318B2 |
Method for estimating connection orders of modules of modular robot
A method for estimating a connection order of modules in a robot including the modules each having a joint as a basic unit. Since a device and a program are connected by software and thus a joint and program are connected by software, it is possible for a user to control robot joints without being aware of the connection relationship between the devices and the joints in the modular robot in which the plurality of modules each including a movable joint as a basic unit is connected. |
| US09067317B1 |
Efficient shuffling of mobile drive units for inventory holders
A mobile drive unit that freely and independently moves about a facility to transport inventory holders. The mobile drive unit may operate through communications with other drive units, or under a more centralized control of a management module. For various operating scenarios, the mobile drive unit is directed to shuffle the inventory holders in a manner that minimizes travel of the mobile drive unit, thereby improving overall system efficiency. One or more mobile drive units may be used to transport inventory holders to and from a region, and to sequentially reposition or slide each of the inventory holders within the region according to a priority ordering. |
| US09067314B2 |
Device for locating points on a surface
A device for locating points on a surface includes a base and at least two extendable arms coupled thereto. The device is configured so that when one of the arms is extended from the base, the other arm extends substantially and equidistance from the base in the opposite direction. |
| US09067312B2 |
Tool holder
The tool holder according to the invention for a chipping hammer has a tool receptacle for receiving a tool and a tool securing device for securing the tool in the tool receptacle. The tool securing device provides a shaft having an eccentrically arranged mandrel and at least one end piece and a bar having at least one eye in which the end piece engages in a form-fitting manner. The tool securing device is pivotable into at least one first position for inserting and removing the tool and into at least one second position for securing the tool. The eye has a non-circular cross-section. |
| US09067311B2 |
Machine tool
The machine tool according to the with a pneumatic hammer mechanism comprises a motorized exciter, a guiding tube, and a piston-shaped beater. The piston-shaped beater is guided by an interior surface of the guiding tube along an operating axis and with the exciter encloses an air spring in a guiding tube. The beater shows a cup-shaped basic body with an open hollow space facing the exciter and an inset filling the hollow space. The basic body is made from a first material with a first density and the insert is made from a material with a second density, which is lower than the first density. |
| US09067306B1 |
Cam activated clamp
A cam activated clamp enables a user with joint pain in hands and wrists to firmly hold an object in place for twisting. The cam activated clamp includes a base frame attached to a counter gripper which is immediately adjacent to a main gripper. The main gripper can travel along a central axis toward the counter gripper unless a locking plate holds the main gripper in a fixed position on the base frame. The user can rotationally activate a cam in order to unlock the main gripper. This allows the user with the joint pain in the hands and wrists to insert the object between the main gripper and the counter gripper and then slide the main gripper proximate the counter gripper and lock the main gripper in place by rotating a cam distant a locking plate which holds the object in place for twisting. |
| US09067302B2 |
Segment-type chemical mechanical polishing conditioner and method for manufacturing thereof
The present invention relates to a segment-type chemical mechanical polishing conditioner and a method for manufacturing thereof. The segment-type chemical mechanical polishing conditioner comprises: a bottom substrate having a center protrusion; an abrasive unit binding layer disposed on the outside of the surface of the bottom substrate; and a plurality of abrasive units placed on the abrasive unit binding layer; wherein the abrasive units have a fan-shaped contour and are arrange along the center protrusion of the bottom substrate to form a discontinuous circular contour. Therefore, the present invention can utilize the center protrusion of the bottom substrate to adjust the arrangements of the abrasive units, and effectively improve the problem of thermal deformation of the surface of the chemical mechanical polishing conditioner during heat-hardening process, thereby enhancing the surface flatness of chemical mechanical polishing conditioner. |
| US09067297B2 |
Polishing pad with foundation layer and polishing surface layer
Polishing pads with foundation layers and polishing surface layers are described. In an example, a polishing pad for polishing a substrate includes a foundation layer. A polishing surface layer is bonded to the foundation layer. Methods of fabricating polishing pads with a polishing surface layer bonded to a foundation layer are also described. |
| US09067296B2 |
Polishing method
A polishing method for reducing an amount of polishing liquid used without lowering a polishing rate is provided. The polishing method comprises determining, in advance, the relationship between a supply flow rate of a polishing liquid and a polishing rate at the time the substrate is polished without controlling a surface temperature of the polishing pad, and the relationship between a supply flow rate of a polishing liquid and a polishing rate at the time the substrate is polished while controlling a surface temperature of the polishing pad at a predetermined level, and continuously supplying the polishing liquid to the surface of the polishing pad to achieve a higher polishing rate when the substrate is polished while controlling the surface temperature of the polishing pad at the predetermined level, than when the substrate is polished without controlling the surface temperature of the polishing pad. |
| US09067294B2 |
Coating removal apparatus
An example coating removal apparatus for a component includes a table having a first platform disposed along an axis. The platform is arranged to receive at least one fixture for holding a corresponding component. The coating removal apparatus also includes a removal device having a web. The table is slidably moveable in an axial direction and configured to move the fixture a pre-determined distance such that at least one portion of the component contacts the web to remove a coating of the component. |
| US09067293B2 |
Accessory clamp for a power tool
A clamping device for clamping an accessory to a power tool includes a first flange, a spindle member, and a cam member. The first flange is coupled to a drive system of the power tool and is configured to receive the accessory. The spindle member defines a longitudinal axis and includes a second flange provided on an end of the spindle member and a follower member provided on an opposite end of the spindle member. The cam member includes a cam surface configured to interact with the follower surface, the cam member is rotatable about the longitudinal axis to a clamped position and to an unclamped position. In the unclamped position the accessory is removable from the first flange, and in the clamped position the accessory is clamped between the first flange and the second flange. |
| US09067291B2 |
Radial arm saw safety top
A radial arm saw is adapted with a safety top configured with cutting box enclosure that contains and collects substantially all of the sawdust generated during use. A dust collection system is in fluid communication with the cutting box for removing the sawdust contained therein. Spring biased push blocks function to hold the work piece in place during the sawing process while maintaining the user's hands safely away from the saw blade. A laser alignment device projects a beam within the cutting box along the cutting plane. A control panel is provided to allow use by authorized users upon entry of an authorization code. |
| US09067288B2 |
Heat sink structure with a vapor-permeable membrane for two-phase cooling
A heat sink, and cooled electronic structure and cooled electronics apparatus utilizing the heat sink are provided. The heat sink is fabricated of a thermally conductive structure which includes one or more coolant-carrying channels coupled to facilitate the flow of coolant through the coolant-carrying channel(s). The heat sink further includes a membrane associated with the coolant-carrying channel(s). The membrane includes at least one vapor-permeable region, which overlies a portion of the coolant-carrying channel(s) and facilitates removal of vapor from the coolant-carrying channel(s), and at least one orifice coupled to inject coolant onto at least one surface of the coolant-carrying channel(s) intermediate opposite ends of the channel(s). |
| US09067286B2 |
Piston ring for a piston of an internal combustion engine, and a method for producing same
The invention relates to a method for producing a piston ring (30, 130, 230) for a piston (10) of an internal combustion engine, comprising a ring back (31), an upper ring flank (32), a lower ring flank (33), and a running surface (42), and the method comprising the following method steps: (a) preparing a ring blank (30′) with a ring back (31′), an upper ring flank (32′), a lower ring flank (33′), and an outer lateral face (34′), (b) shaping an asymmetrical convex contour (35) along the outer lateral face (34′) and shaping a radially outward-extending protrusion (36) in the outer lateral surface (34′) in the region of the lower ring flank (33′), (c) coating the outer lateral surface (34′) with a coating material, (d) removing the protrusion (36), thereby exposing the material of the ring blank (30′) in the shape of a circumferential surface (41) which blends into the coating (39), and forming an oil scraper edge (40) between the circumferential surface (41) and the lower ring flank (33′), and (e) post and/or final processing of the coated ring blank (30′) to obtain a finished piston ring (30, 130, 230). |
| US09067285B2 |
Automatic screw tightening apparatus
In an automatic screw tightening apparatus, a feed head unit is movable to and from close contact with a driver bit portion. The driver bit portion contacts the screw and sucks the head portion of the screw in close contact. The feed head unit includes a longitudinal groove opened to the outside and connected to a vertically extending screw feed hole. Only a thread portion of the screw is capable of horizontally advancing and retreating in the longitudinal groove. |
| US09067277B2 |
Laser processing a workpiece
A method is described for simultaneously writing patterns in thin films of material coated on the opposite sides of thin glass or plastic substrates by direct write, laser ablation. The substrates are fully or partially transparent to the laser radiation used and in addition the surfaces of the substrates are not assumed to be flat. Different registered patterns may be applied at the same time to opposite sides of the substrates. |
| US09067276B2 |
Method for non-releasable fixing of one component to a further component
A method for non-releasable fixing of at least one component to a further component is provided in which a hot rivet is introduced into an opening of the at least one first component and an end face of a shank of the hot rivet is welded to a surface of the further component. Subsequently, with plastic deformation of the hot rivet, the shank of the hot rivet is compressed until a head of the hot rivet lies with a pre-stressing force at least in areas on a surface of the at least one component. The pre-stressing force, with which the head of the hot rivet lies at least in areas on the surface of the at least one component, is adjusted to a predefined value. |
| US09067272B2 |
Systems and methods for high aspect ratio flip-chip interconnects
Interconnect and/or reflow methods of the present disclosure achieve high aspect ratio interconnects, for example interconnects having an aspect ratio as high as 4, in addition to wider interconnect height tolerances among interconnects (for example, interconnects having a height variability of up to about 30%) while still achieving reliable electrical connections. Moreover, flip-chip interconnects configured in accordance with principles of the present disclosure can provide improved z-axis spacing between die-to-die and/or die-to-substrate flip chip stacks, for example z-axis spacing as large as 600 μm. In this manner, additional spacing can be achieved for MEMS devices and/or similar components that are extendable and/or deformable out of the die plane. |
| US09067266B2 |
Bit retention device
A bit retention device includes a shaft having a sidewall defining a hexagonal cavity extending from a first end thereof and a ball groove extending through the sidewall and communicating with the hexagonal cavity. A ball is disposed in the ball groove and a ball spring engages the ball and biases the ball toward the first end. An actuator sleeve surrounding the shaft includes an internal ramp engaging the ball. A spring biased plunger assembly is disposed in the bore for biasing a bit received in the bore in a direction toward the insertion end. |
| US09067265B2 |
Cutting method
There is provided a cutting method for cutting a work by rotating a rotary tool with a circular cutting edge around an axis while a cutting fluid is supplied thereto. Cutting is performed by means of the rotary tool which is rotated in the same rotational direction as an outflow direction of chips, and the rotary tool is rotated at a rotational speed of the rotary tool at which a circumferential speed of the cutting edge is higher than an outflow speed of the chips. Thus, the area of direct solid contact between the rotary tool and the chips is reduced with the aid of a dynamic pressure effect, and the abrasion of the rotary tool is suppressed. |
| US09067263B2 |
Continuous, semicontinuous and batch methods for treating liquids and manufacturing certain constituents (e.g., nanoparticles) in liquids, apparatuses and nanoparticles and nanoparticle/liquid solution(s) and colloids resulting therefrom
This invention relates generally to novel methods and novel devices for the continuous manufacture of nanoparticles, microparticles and nanoparticle/liquid solution(s) (e.g., colloids). The nanoparticles (and/or micron-sized particles) comprise a variety of possible compositions, sizes and shapes. The particles (e.g., nanoparticles) are caused to be present (e.g., created and/or the liquid is predisposed to their presence (e.g., conditioned)) in a liquid (e.g., water) by, for example, preferably utilizing at least one adjustable plasma (e.g., created by at least one AC and/or DC power source), which plasma communicates with at least a portion of a surface of the liquid. At least one subsequent and/or substantially simultaneous adjustable electrochemical processing technique is also preferred. Multiple adjustable plasmas and/or adjustable electrochemical processing techniques are preferred. Processing enhancers can be utilized alone or with a plasma. Semicontinuous and batch processes can also be utilized. The continuous processes cause at least one liquid to flow into, through and out of at least one trough member, such liquid being processed, conditioned and/or effected in said trough member(s). Results include constituents formed in the liquid including ions, micron-sized particles and/or nanoparticles (e.g., metallic-based nanoparticles) of novel size, shape, composition, concentration, zeta potential and certain other novel properties present in a liquid. |
| US09067261B2 |
Process for making silver powder particles with very small size crystallites
The process for making silver powder particles with very small size crystallites uses a combination of gum arabic and maleic acid with the reduction of a silver salt with ascorbic acid. Silver thick film paste containing these silver powder particles can be used in electronic applications to form electrodes for semiconductor devices and, in particular, solar cells. |
| US09067255B2 |
Bending apparatus for rod-shaped workpieces
A bending device for rod-shaped workpieces having a bending head with a mandrel rotatable about a rotation axis, a cutting device for cutting the respective workpiece in a cutting plane, and a feed and straightening device for feeding the workpieces to the bending head, the cutting device capable of being moved along a travel path in the feed direction of the workpieces, with the bending head capable of being shifted between an operating position in which it is moved towards the workpiece and an inactive end position remote therefrom, the bending head, in order to assume its operating position, can be moved into the travel path of the cutting device, whereas, when assuming its inactive end position, it is positioned outside the travel path of the cutting device, and, when the bending head is situated in its inactive end position, the cutting device can be moved downstream on its travel path at least partly over the area of the operating position of the bending head. |
| US09067254B2 |
Method of configuring a production line to mass customize shaped vessels
A method of configuring a production line to mass customize shaped vessels includes receiving a plurality of consumer or event data. Further, the method includes configuring a plurality of vessel forming stations based in part on the received consumer or event data. Once the vessel forming stations are configured, a plurality of vessels are shaped by indexing the plurality of vessels through the vessel forming stations. The shaping operation can include shaping by contouring a length of each of the plurality of vessels, selecting a decoration style to be applied to the plurality of vessels based in part on the consumer or event data, and configuring a top-forming station based in part on the consumer or event data. |
| US09067253B2 |
Low profile pilot assembly and method for metal forming dies
A pilot assembly and method for metal forming dies has a generally cylindrical pilot with a stripper that strips stock from the pilot when metal forming dies diverge. The pilot assembly is secured to one die member by a fastener by itself or in combination with a window mount. A spring within the pilot assembly contacts the stripper to force the stripper to reciprocate when the dies are pulled apart. Thus, the pilot assembly helps locate the stock within the metal forming die while also having a stripper to help strip the stock from the pilot. |
| US09067250B2 |
Portable tube coiler
A portable tube coiler and method for coiling. The portable tube coiler includes a spool assembly having a rotation axis and including a spool configured to rotate about the rotation axis (819), a tube receiver configured to rotate with the spool, a motor coupled to the spool assembly (810), and configured to rotate the spool, an anchor fixed to the motor and configured to provide a counter-rotation force to the motor, a power supply interface configured to transmit power to the motor, and a trigger configured to initiate rotation of the spool. |
| US09067247B2 |
Treatment of tailings with deionized silicate solutions
A process for treating a tailings stream comprises (a) contacting a deionized silicate solution with a tailings stream whereby the solids are entrapped within a gel produced from the silicate solution; and (b) allowing the gel to strengthen and solidify. The process may further comprise spreading the gel produced in step (a) over a surface. The present invention is particularly useful to treat tailings streams produced in processes to extract bitumen from oil sands ores. |
| US09067246B2 |
Water service line repair
Methods and apparatus for removing unwanted build-up in a pipe, such as a water service line, by creating and directing one or more hydraulic pulses toward the build-up. This may be accomplished, for example, by fluidically connecting a piston assembly to the pipe, and then striking or otherwise abruptly moving the piston to produce a hydraulic pulse. |
| US09067240B2 |
Method for manufacturing near-infrared reflective film and near-infrared reflective body provided with same
Disclosed is a method for manufacturing a near-infrared reflective body in which a near-infrared reflective film is manufactured that has excellent manufacturing cost performance, is capable of being employed over a large area, and has excellent application stability and resistance to refractive index unevenness in the surface. A method for manufacturing a near-infrared reflective film in which a high refractive index layer and a low refractive index layer are alternately laminated on a support, wherein the difference in the refractive index of adjacent high refractive index layers and low refractive index layers is at least 0.3, and the near-infrared reflective film is formed using a coating liquid for a high refractive index layer and a coating liquid for a low refractive index layer, if the viscosity of the high refractive index layers and low refractive index layers at 15° C. is η15 and at 45° C. is η45, the viscosity ratio (η15/η45) in each case is at least 2.0. |
| US09067236B2 |
Two-component liquid dispenser gun and system
A liquid dispenser gun (14) for mixing first and second liquid components of a two-component mixture (11) and dispensing the two-component mixture (11) includes a gun body (78), a mixing manifold (82), and a nozzle plate (84). The gun body (78) includes a gun body fluid passage (94) in fluid communication with gun body inlets (38, 50, 56) and the mixing manifold (82). The gun body fluid passage (94) is a groove in a bottom surface (79) of the gun body (78) having a generally non-linear shape such that the second component has a generally laminar flow through the gun body fluid passage (94) while a flushing component may be introduced in the gun body fluid passage (94) in a manner to produce turbulence in the flushing component. |
| US09067235B1 |
Caulking gun auxiliary assembly
A paint applicator attachable to a caulking gun including a cradle, a stop fixedly attached to the cradle's front end, a bar, a plate fixedly attached to the bar's front end, and ratchet mechanism including a pivotable grip operatively positioning the bar's front end and the plate within the cradle for forwardly moving the plate, the paint applicator incorporating cylinder having a hollow bore and a front wall, the cylinder being fitted for insertion into the cradle; a nipple opening the cylinder at the cylinder's front wall; a piston mounted within the cylinder; a clamp nut adapted for resisting removal of the cylinder from the cradle; a yoke having a hollow bore, and having paint inlet and paint outlet ends; a rotatable coupling nut adapted for attaching the yoke to the nipple; and a paint roller rotatably mounted upon the yoke's outlet end for receiving and rollably applying the paint. |
| US09067233B2 |
Stick-shaped material propelling container
A stick-shaped material propelling container which comprises a barrel having a spiral groove formed in its inner peripheral surface, a guide tube having slits and inserted in the barrel so as to be rotatable relative to the barrel and axially unmovable, and a stick-shaped material holding member provided with side plates and protrusions and slidably inserted in the tube with the protrusions being engaged with the grooves through the slits. The groove has a structure for causing rear end portions of the side plates to come closer to each other and for causing tip end portions of the side plates to be separated radially outward from each other according to the mutually approaching movements of the rear end portions of the side plates, when the protrusions are slid along a tip end portion of the groove according to relative rotation of the barrel and the tube. |
| US09067231B2 |
Synchronization of retrieval system and oscillator for sled-based application of a coating material
A planetary gear retrieval system for pulling a sled at a constant velocity along an interior of a pipe, and a sled for applying a coating material to the interior of the large-diameter pipe. The planetary gear retrieval system is connected to the sled via a chain, and has a network of gears controlled by a first variable speed microcontroller. A spinner on a linear oscillating plate provided on the sled is controlled by a second variable speed microcontroller. The first and second microcontrollers are programmable to be synchronized with one another so as to pull the sled at a desired constant rate and achieve a desired number of passes of the spinner along a given length of pipe while the sled is pulled at the desired rate. |
| US09067229B2 |
Active material coating apparatus and coating method using the same
The present invention provides an active material coating apparatus to form an active material layer having a uniform thickness in a width direction of a substrate when forming the active material layer on a substrate.An active material coating apparatus according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention includes a lower die having a groove for supplying an active material of a slurry state and forming a first lip portion of an outlet slot connected to the groove and outputting the active material; an upper die disposed on an upper side of the lower die to face the first lip portion, having a second lip portion of the outlet slot, and having a hinge portion at the rear of the second lip portion according to the outlet direction of the active material; a fixing spacer interposed between the lower die and the upper die at the rear of the hinge portion according to the outlet direction of the active material and determining a fixing gap; a flexible spacer interposed between the first lip portion and the second lip portion on both sides of the width direction of the outlet slot and forming a variable gap; and a controller installed to the upper die and pushing/pulling the second lip portion with respect to the hinge portion to control the variable gap between the first lip portion and the second lip portion. |
| US09067228B2 |
Moisture protection of fluid ejector
A fluid ejection apparatus includes a substrate having a plurality of fluid passages for fluid flow and a plurality of nozzles fluidically connected to the fluid passages, a plurality of actuators positioned on top of the substrate to cause fluid in the plurality of fluid passages to be ejected from the plurality of nozzles, and a protective layer formed over at least a portion of the plurality of actuators, the protective layer having an intrinsic permeability to moisture less than 2.5×10−3 g/m·day. |
| US09067227B2 |
Faucet Extender
A device and method for delivering water to a person who is unable to reach household or other types of water dispensing faucets. In some embodiments, the device comprises a trough for delivering the liquid and an attachment member for attaching the trough to a faucet. |
| US09067226B2 |
Slurry spreader having a basin and drainage nozzles
An apparatus can include a trough configured to be removably attached to a discharge chute and receive a slurry discharged therefrom. The apparatus can include a basin connected to a lower end of the trough, and can include a plurality of drainage nozzles disposed along a bottom of the basin and configured to concurrently distribute the slurry to a plurality of locations where the plurality of drainage nozzles includes an adjustable drainage nozzle. |
| US09067225B2 |
Rotary switch valve and shower group with rotary switch valve
A rotary switch valve has a main body with a division board hermetically set in a sleeve body and the sleeve body and has a water inlet and two water outlets, a let-off pipe rotationally joined to the back of the sleeve body and connected to the back cavity, and a water division plate which is rotationally set in the sleeve body to rotate between the first and second position and is fixed to the let-off pipe to rotate along the let-off pipe to connect or cut off the water outlet in the first water outlet or the second water outlet. The shower group with the rotary switch valve has an arm tube, a rain shower connected to the first water outlet and a head shower connected to the second water outlet. The head shower water outlets and the rain shower can be switched by rotating the let-off pipe. |
| US09067223B2 |
Color change for powder coating material application system
A color changer has a common feed passage that is connected to two or more inlet passages. The common feed passage can be reverse purged in a direction that is opposite a direction of powder flow through the common feed passage. A valve element seals a supply port that connects the inlet passage to the common feed passage to eliminate dead space and form a near bore line seal. The valve element is an elastic material that expands in response to applied compressed air inside the valve element. |
| US09067219B2 |
Trace chemical particle release nozzle
An explosive and narcotics detection system detects the presence of trace particles of those materials that are adhering to surfaces. In order to detect such particles, it is necessary to first dislodge or release them from the surface, next to transport them to the detection instrument, and last to accumulate them on or in a particle collection device associated with the instrument. Narcotics and explosive particles are often bound tenaciously to the surface, and simple techniques, such as blowing air, will either remove only the largest particles or none at all. A nozzle to release particles of narcotics and explosives employs a coaxial configuration that permits particle release at an increased distance from the nozzle compared to existing devices. |
| US09067209B2 |
Reagent delivery system
A delivery apparatus for selectively delivering one or more liquid reagents into a reaction or test chamber (2), especially of an assay apparatus, the apparatus comprising: one or more respective storage chambers (5,6) for containing the one or more liquid reagents and arranged generally above the reaction or test chamber (2); and a plunger element (4) arranged and operable for insertion into the mouth of a selected storage chamber so as to displace a selected reagent from therewithin into the reaction or test chamber (2) generally therebelow by gravitational liquid overflow from the mouth of the chamber. The apparatus may conveniently be provided as a discrete delivery unit, with the storage chambers (5,6) pretilled with the selected reagents. |
| US09067208B2 |
Apparatus for blocking nucleic acids by means of photoactivating intercalating agents
The invention relates to an apparatus for blocking nucleic acids by means of photoactivating intercalating agents, comprising: a housing (1) with an upper wall (1a) with one or more through holes (2), intended for inserting therethrough one or more test or microcentrifuge tubes (3), each of which contains a respective sample (M) including nucleic acids and photosensitive intercalating agents mixed in liquid form, and one or more LEDs (L1, L2, L3, L10, L20, L30) mounted inside the housing (1) such that they emit light, according to one or more determined directions, towards respective parts (3a, 3b and 3c) of said of tubes (3), to photoactivate the intercalating agents in order to covalently bond them to free or accessible nucleic acids. |
| US09067204B2 |
Sheath flow device and method
A sheath flow system having a channel with at least one fluid transporting structure located in the top and bottom surfaces situated so as to transport the sheath fluid laterally across the channel to provide sheath fluid fully surrounding the core solution. At the point of introduction into the channel, the sheath fluid and core solutions flow side by side within the channel or the core solution may be bounded on either side by the sheath fluid. The system is functional over a broad channel size range and with liquids of high or low viscosity. The design can be readily incorporated into microfluidic chips without the need for special manufacturing protocols. |
| US09067197B2 |
Catalyst, process for producing the catalyst, use of the catalyst
A catalyst especially for oxidation of exhaust gas constituents, for example nitrogen oxide, preferably nitrogen monoxide, consists of a particulate support material composed of titanium-containing nanoparticles, preferably titanium oxide nanoparticles, especially titanium dioxide nanoparticles coated with platinum, especially platinum particles. A process for producing such a catalyst. |
| US09067196B2 |
FCC catalyst additive and a method for its preparation
The present invention relates to a Fluid Catalytic Cracking (FCC) additive preparation process and composition, which has high efficiency in the production of light olefins C2, C3 and C4 hydrocarbons, specifically propylene. The present invention discloses the stabilization of medium pore zeolite specifically ZSM-5 using optimum phosphate salts at a pH in the range 7-9 with synergetic combination of silica rich binder to produce FCC additive having excellent stability under severe hydrothermal conditions. |
| US09067192B2 |
Pollutant emission control sorbents and methods of manufacture and use
Sorbents for removal of mercury and other pollutants from gas streams, such as a flue gas stream from coal-fired utility plants, and methods for their manufacture and use are disclosed. Embodiments include brominated sorbent substrate particles having a carbon content of less than about 10%. Other embodiments include one or more oxidatively active halides of a nonoxidative metal dispersed on sorbent substrate particles mixed with activated carbon in an amount up to 30% by weight. Further embodiments include physical blending of a flow modifier into the sorbent composition. |
| US09067190B2 |
Method for loading amphiphile particles with active agents
The present invention provides a method for the production of amphiphile particles having incorporated therein at least one active agent. The method comprises forming a dispersion of particles comprising at least one amphiphilic structuring agent in a solution of at least one active agent, heating said dispersion to an elevated temperature, followed by cooling to around ambient temperature. The loading provided thereby is typically at least 130% of the loading provided by equilibration of the particles in a solution of active agent. The invention also provides corresponding amphiphile particles. |
| US09067182B2 |
Polymer dissolution equipment suitable for large fracturing operations
Compact and transportable equipment that can be used for fracturing operations on gas or oil fields, includes, successively, a silo for storing polymer in powder form, a feed hopper of a polymer metering device, a device for metering out the powder polymer, a device for dispersing and grinding the polymer, and at least two volumetric pumps enabling the injection and metering of the polymer solution obtained in the mixer used for supplying at least one high-pressure fracturing pump. |
| US09067180B2 |
Hollow fibre membrane
The present invention relates to a process for manufacturing a hollow fibre membrane having a supporting layer and a separating layer, said process comprising: (a) extruding a spinning composition comprising a first polymer and a solvent for the first polymer through an inner annular orifice of a hollow-fibre die; (b) co-extruding a composition comprising an organic nucleophilic reagent and a mixtures of a solvent and a non-solvent for the first polymer, wherein the composition is either extruded through a central annular orifice of the hollow-fibre die or through an outer annular orifice of a hollow-fibre die; and (c) passing the hollow-fibre through a coagulation bath. The hollow fibre membrane according to the present invention can be used in gas separation processes, vapour separation processes and liquid filtration processes. |
| US09067175B2 |
Method and apparatus for removing low-concentration methane
Disclosed are a method and an apparatus for removing methane from a gas which contains the methane at such a low concentration as not to be rendered into a combustible range with whatever ratio of air mixed therewith. In order to ensure satisfactory methane removal performance even in the coexistence of sulfur compound and in order also to provide stable methane removal performance for an extended period of time without performance deterioration even when the methane concentration varies significantly, the gas is fed to a heat exchanger for preheating and methane is exposed to an oxidation catalyst which oxidizes the methane through contact therewith. Then, the resultant gas is fed again to the heat exchanger for heat recovery through heat exchange with un-reacted gas. Further, the flow rate of gas to be treated is varied, according to a concentration of the methane contained in this treated gas. |
| US09067166B2 |
Process for the removal of hydrogen sulfide from a gas stream
The application relates to a process for the removal of hydrogen sulfide from a gas stream by catalytic direct oxidation without employing the combustion step of a Claus process. The process is particularly suitable for desulfurization of gas streams that contain hydrogen and allows sulfur recovery efficiency of better than 99%. |
| US09067165B2 |
Handling of acids from compressed oxyfuel-derived CO2
Sulfur dioxide (SO2) is removed from a carbon dioxide feed gas by maintaining the feed gas at elevated pressure(s) in the presence of oxygen (O2), water and NOx for a period of time sufficient to convert SO2 to sulfuric acid and NOx to nitric acid and produce SO2-depleted, NOx-lean carbon dioxide gas. The invention resides in separating the sulfuric and nitric acids from said SO2-depleted, NOx-lean carbon dioxide gas, and then neutralizing the acids by reaction with an alkaline sorbent in an acid/sorbent reactor system to produce sorbent-derive sulfate. The method has particular application in the removal of SO2 and NOx from flue gas produced by oxyfuel combustion of a carbonaceous fuel. |
| US09067158B2 |
Filter unit
A filter unit for removing particles from an air or gas flow, comprising a filter body having a front side, a rear side, and an edge side between the front side and the rear side, and an edge strip arranged on the edge side, which edge strip extends at least the height of the edge side and at least the length of the edge side, wherein the edge strip comprises a foamed thermoplastic material, which is molded to the edge side of the filter body such that the edge strip thereby is formed and fastened directly to the edge side of the filter body, and such that the edge is embedded in the edge strip. |
| US09067157B2 |
Vehicle having one or more fuel filters attached to a location other than the engine
A vehicle, including: one or more fuel filters through which fuel that is supplied from one or more fuel tanks to an engine is to pass; and an operating seat in which a worker is to perform operation for activating the vehicle and a working implement that is installed on the vehicle, wherein the one or more fuel tanks are arranged at a position which is placed below a floor-face the operating seat has, the engine is arranged at a position which is placed in front of the operating seat with respect to a forward movement direction of a vehicle main body, and the one or more fuel filters are arranged at a position which is placed at a right side or a left side of the one or more fuel tanks with respect to the forward movement direction of the vehicle main body. |
| US09067155B2 |
Variable filtration device
Provided is a filtration device used in order to improve the water quality of the final effluent in an advanced treatment facility for sewage and wastewater. The variable filtration device (10) of this type comprises a filtration tank (20), a filtration unit (30), a winding unit (50) and a filter cloth (12) arranged in such a way that the filtration conditions can be controlled by adjusting the number of turns of winding and the extent of pulling of the filter cloth in the chamber where the filtered water is formed, thereby allowing relatively easy porosity control as compared with the prior art, so enabling ready adjustment to the target water quality and water quantity even when the quality of the inflowing water varies. |
| US09067151B2 |
Trap apparatus and substrate processing apparatus
A trap apparatus provided between a chamber and an evacuating unit, includes an inlet port and an exhausting port to be respectively connected to the chamber and the evacuating unit; a cooling trap portion provided with a first space for cooling gas in the first space; and a bypass portion provided with a first channel capable of communicating between the inlet port and the first space, a second channel capable of communicating between the first space and the exhausting port, and a second space capable of communicating between the inlet port and the exhausting port, the bypass portion being relatively movable with respect to the cooling trap portion to selectively form a first path from the inlet port to the exhausting port via the first channel, the first space and the second channel, and a second path from the inlet port to the exhausting port via the second space. |
| US09067149B2 |
Electronic shift lockout for scale model vehicle
A powered scale model vehicle having a transmission with a forward gear and a reverse gear. The transmission is shiftable between the forward gear and the reverse gear. The vehicle has a radio control receiver, a sensor and a microcontroller. The receiver is adapted to output a throttle signal and a shift signal to the microcontroller. The sensor is adapted to obtain a vehicle speed measurement. The microcontroller is electrically coupled to the receiver and the sensor. The microcontroller may be adapted to control a timing and execution of a forward/reverse shift on the transmission based on at least the vehicle speed measurement, the throttle signal, and the shift signal, for example. |
| US09067146B1 |
Swing
A swing includes a body with a concave central portion defining a recessed concave seat and a peripheral edge surrounding the concave central portion. The peripheral edge includes a plurality of tether openings, each of which is adapted to receive an associated tether. A top wall extends radially outward from the recessed concave seat. An outer wall is connected to and projects downwardly from an outer end of said top wall. A peripheral groove is defined adjacent the top wall and the outer wall, wherein said plurality of tether openings each open through the top wall and into the peripheral groove. A tether system is adapted to suspend the body from an associated support member, the tether system engaged with the tether openings and at least part of said tether system located in said peripheral groove. The peripheral edge of the body can be circular, a non-rectangular polygon, or an oval or other non-circular curved shape. |
| US09067143B2 |
Method of and system for conducting multiple contests of skill with a single performance
A method of and system for conducting multiple competitions of skill for a single performance are described herein. User generated competition groups and system generated competition groups allow users to participate in multiple competitions at once based on answering the same questions or making the same selections related to a single event. The users are informed of each competition either via email, text message or when logging into the network via a website. The users select which competitions groups to join. After joining the desired groups, the users then make their selections related to the event which are transmitted to the network where results are tabulated and transmitted back to the users. The results are separated based on each competition group, so that users can continually know where they stand in each separate competition. With multiple competition groups, users are able to have varying success from the same performance in multiple competitions. |
| US09067139B2 |
Controller for interfacing with a computing program using position, orientation, or motion
A method for determining the position of a controller device, comprises: receiving dimensions of the display input by a user of the computer-based system; capturing successive images of the display at the controller device; determining a position of the controller device relative to the display based on the dimensions of the display and a perspective distortion of the display in the captured successive images of the display; providing the determined position of the controller to the computer-based system to interface with the interactive program to cause an action by the interactive program. |
| US09067136B2 |
Push personalization of interface controls
A computing system is configured to receive one or more depth images, from the depth camera, of a world space scene including a human target. The computing system translates a world space position of a hand of the human target to a screen space cursor position of the user interface using a virtual desktop transformation. The computing system also dynamically adjusts the virtual desktop transformation based on a history of button press actions executed by the human target. |
| US09067134B2 |
Video game processing apparatus and video game processing program product
Sounded reproduction of basic sound data indicating a game sound to be reproduced in a video game and sound deadening reproduction of coda data indicating coda used as a termination sound are started when it becomes predetermined reproduction start timing in the video game to reproduce the basic sound data and the coda data in synchronization with each other. By referring to marker data indicating a plurality of markers when it becomes predetermined reproduction end timing in the video game, switching timing to switch reproduction modes and stop timing to stop reproducing are determined. When it becomes the switching timing, the sounded reproduction of the basic sound data and the sound deadening reproduction of the coda data are respectively switched into sound deadening reproduction and sounded reproduction. The reproduction of the basic sound data and the coda data is stopped when it becomes the stop timing. |
| US09067133B2 |
Enhanced method and apparatus for selecting and rendering performance data
Enhanced methodology and apparatus for use in a multi-player video game for generating a array of user selectable options for choosing real or computer generated users to play with and/or compete against. For example, in a simulated multiple driver racing game application, the user of a computing device is presented with an option for selecting any of various “ghost data” packages for downloading over a communication network such as the Internet. For example, the user may be presented with the option of selecting one of an array of ghost data packages to race against such as the top five buddies of the user with highest scores, five buddies with scores similar to a user's own score, and teams/groups of various varieties. A simulated race in a computing device initially occurs with objects and a playing field of relatively low graphic complexity, limited by constraints of the system's processing power and the associated limited number of polygons that can be processed per second, the resolution of the screen, etc. A more powerful rendering of such objects/playing field thereafter takes place in a server after the ghost/performance data is collected and uploaded. |
| US09067132B1 |
Systems and methods for indirect control of processor enabled devices
Individuals can operate processor enabled devices at a high level of performance, even if they have little or no familiarity with those devices, by indirectly operating them through a first processor enabled device. The direct interactions of individuals with a familiar device can be communicated to one or more processors that perform signal processing functions in order to generate control signals that direct the operation of a second, unfamiliar processor-enabled device. In this closed-loop system, individuals can receive real-time feedback on the performance of the second device in a form associated with the operation of the first device. |
| US09067131B2 |
Systems and methods for playing a game of chance with bonus feature
Systems and methods enable one or more players to play a game of chance. A system includes a processor and a memory device for storing instructions to provide a game of chance in which house indicia are selected from a pool of house indicia, and wherein a payout from a first pay table is awarded if a player matched a plurality of player indicia with the house indicia. The processor randomly selects a plurality of house indicia, provides a random chance of selecting at least one bonus indicia, determines whether player indicia within a pattern match the house indicia, and provides a payout to the player if the bonus indicia matches at least one player indicia within the pattern and if each player indicia within the pattern are matched by the house indicia. The payout is based on a second pay table that is different from the first pay table. |
| US09067109B2 |
Ball bat with optimized barrel wall spacing and improved end cap
A ball bat extending about an axis, and configured for hitting a ball. The bat including a barrel portion coupled to a handle portion, a tubular sleeve positioned within the barrel portion, and an end cap. The barrel portion is formed of a fiber composite material, and includes a proximal end region, a distal end region, and an inner and outer layer. The layers are separated by a first separation configured to allow for independent movement between the layers upon impact with the ball. The sleeve is coupled to the handle portion. A portion of the sleeve is separated from the inner layer by a second separation within the range of 0.030 to 0.125 inch when measured radially from the axis. Upon impact, the barrel portion deflects inwardly such that the inner wall operably engages the sleeve. The cap is coupled to the sleeve and to the barrel portion. |
| US09067108B2 |
Adjustable golf club shaft and hosel assembly
An adjustable shaft and hosel assembly allows for dependent and independent adjustment of a golf club's face angle, loft angle, and lie angle. The adjustable shaft and hosel assembly comprises a shaft sleeve with a joint portion, a hosel portion, and a fitting piece, wherein the joint portion fits within the fitting piece and the fitting piece fits within the hosel portion. |
| US09067107B2 |
Method and system for golf club weight adjustment
There is provided a method and system for adjusting the weight of a golf clubs. The method includes receiving a target additional weight for the golf club. A weighted filler is selected corresponding to the target additional weight and the interior volume of the golf club. The initially viscous weighted filler is injected into the golf club interior and allowed to cure. |
| US09067103B2 |
Gymnastic machine
A gymnastic machine (1) comprising a frame (10) supporting a load group (20) that can be actuated cyclically for power exchange with a user during training; a pair of first levers (24), substantially identical to each other, each of which being carried by the frame (10) in a rotatable manner around a first pivot axis (A1) and being provided with a respective interface (243), so that the interface (243) can move cyclically along a given trajectory (T); a transmission group (30) being provided mechanically to connect the first levers (24) with the load group (20); the transmission group (30)(30′) comprising a modulating device (300′)(300) designed to limit a speed change of each user interface (243) along the annular trajectory (T) and to avoid, in use, a sudden movement of the interface (243) transversally to the trajectory (T) as the motion is inverted. |
| US09067100B2 |
Dual resistance exercise apparatus
An apparatus for communicating exercise resistance includes a carriage assembly with at least one upper and at least one lower pulley. First and second cable ends are reeved around the upper and lower pulleys, respectively, and are coupled to a source of selectable exercise resistance. An exercise member is selectively coupled to the two cable ends such that movement of the exercise member away from the carriage is subject to a first exercise resistance when only one of the cable ends is attached and is subject to a second, greater exercise resistance when both cable ends are attached. |
| US09067099B2 |
Apparatus, system, and method for generating power for exercise equipment
An exercise apparatus with a generator. The exercise apparatus includes a frame, a rotating component, a generator, and a battery. The rotating component is rotatably connected to the frame and the rotating component rotates in response to operation of the exercise apparatus. The generator is connected to the rotating component and the frame. The generator includes a rotor connected to the rotating component and a stator. The rotor rotates in response to rotation of the rotating component. The stator is connected to the frame. The stator interacts with the rotor to produce electric current at an output. In one embodiment, the battery is connected to the output wherein the battery is charged by electric current from the generator. |
| US09067098B2 |
Systems and methods for improving motor function with assisted exercise
One embodiment of the present invention includes a system and method for alleviating symptoms of a medical disorder of a patient by forced exercise. The system includes an exercise machine having movable portions that move in response to a first contribution by a patient and in response a second contribution by a motor. The system further includes at least one mechanical sensor and a control system programmed to alter the second contribution by the motor in response to the sensed data. |
| US09067093B2 |
Hybrid competition diving board
A hybrid diving board is disclosed. The hybrid diving board may include a primary diving board having a flat skid-resistant top surface and a bottom surface extending between a first end and a second end, wherein the board first end is configured for attachment to a diving stand and the board second end is a free end. A flex spring and/or a torsional control spring may also be provided that has a first end and a second end wherein the spring is adjacent to a surface of the diving board. The flex spring first end may be configured for attachment to the diving stand or to the diving board at a location proximate the board first end. The hybrid diving board may have a spring constant and/or average modulus of elasticity that is higher than a corresponding spring constant or modulus of elasticity of the primary diving board. |
| US09067091B2 |
Damper actuator assembly with speed control
A damper actuator assembly comprises a gear train including a follower gear. The follower gear is arranged such that the position of the follower gear indicates the position of at least one blocking member of a damper that the actuator is connected to. A sensor is positioned within the damper actuator and is configured to monitor the position of the follower gear. Accordingly, the sensor is configured to provide an electrical signal indicative of the position of the follower gear to a processor. A driving member is connected to the gear train and is configured to drive the gear train at two or more variable speeds depending on the electrical signal provided to the processor from the sensor. |
| US09067090B2 |
Portable apparatus for generating foam
This invention is directed to a portable foaming apparatus for a handheld fire suppression system having a container holding a foaming agent, water and a pressurized gas, a foam generating assembly having a snorkel, a gas re-directional opening defined in the foam generating assembly allowing gas to enter the re-directional opening from the container; a nozzle in fluid communication with the gas re-directional opening and included in the foam generating assembly downstream of the snorkel so that gas entering the re-directional opening is inserted in the foam generating assembly downstream the snorkel; and, an outlet defined in the housing ejecting foam produced from the foaming agent and the gas when a foam nozzle attached to the foam generating assembly is actuated. |
| US09067079B2 |
Method for low-voltage termination of cardiac arrhythmias by effectively unpinning anatomical reentries
A method for extinguishing a cardiac arrhythmia utilizes destructive interference of the passing of the reentry wave tip of an anatomical reentry through a depolarized region created by a relatively low voltage electric field in such a way as to effectively unpin the anatomical reentry. Preferably, the relatively low voltage electric field is defined by at least one unpinning shock(s) that are lower than an expected lower limit of vulnerability as established, for example, by a defibrillation threshold test. By understanding the physics of the electric field distribution between cardiac cells, the method permits the delivery of an electric field sufficient to unpin the core of the anatomical reentry, whether the precise or estimated location of the reentry is known or unknown and without the risk of inducting ventricular fibrillation. A number of embodiments for performing the method are disclosed. |
| US09067075B2 |
Apparatus and methods for detecting migration of neurostimulation leads
Apparatus and methods for detecting lead migration through the use of measured artifactual data about the tissue in the vicinity of the lead. |
| US09067069B2 |
Cochlear implant fitting system
A system for electrically stimulating a first cochlear implant includes (a) an electrode contact simultaneously transmitting a first electrical stimulus from stimulation hardware to a first ear fitted with the first cochlear implant and a second stimulus from the stimulation hardware to a second ear, the second stimulus being one of electrical and acoustical; (b) a component establishing a plurality of frequency-to-electrode maps used to determine the first electrical stimulus; (c) a user-interface component permitting a user to adjust the frequency-to-electrode maps and receive the corresponding auditory stimulation in the first cochlear implant; (d) a component storing the frequency-to-electrode maps; and (e) a display component displaying a visual representation of multiple frequency-to-electrode maps to facilitate a comparison between the frequency-to-electrode maps in making a determination by a user of a most desired frequency-to-electrode map. |
| US09067065B2 |
Particle beam irradiation apparatus and particle beam therapy system utilizing a beam position monitor to provide feedback adjustments based on the beam position
The particle beam irradiation apparatus comprises: a position monitor that detects a passing position of a charged particle beam; and an irradiation control apparatus that calculates a distance from a predetermined reference point to the position monitor, calculates a beam irradiation position on an irradiation subject, and controls irradiation of the beam; wherein the irradiation control apparatus includes a position calculation apparatus that calculates the beam irradiation position, based on a beam position detected by the position monitor, a scanning starting point distance information on a distance from a irradiation plane of the irradiation subject to a scanning starting point, of the beam, in a scanning electromagnet, and a position monitor distance information on a distance, from the irradiation plane to the position monitor, that is calculated based on the calculated distance. |
| US09067064B2 |
Optimization process for volumetric modulated arc therapy
Systems, techniques, and processes are disclosed for implementing aperture-based optimization techniques. In one aspect, a method performed by an aperture-based radiation treatment system includes implementing a volumetric modulated arc therapy (VMAT) treatment plan by generating apertures at beam angles. Beam intensities of the generated apertures are determined, which can be used to control generation of a radiation dose in a radiation therapy. |
| US09067061B2 |
Therapeutic light-emitting device
An ambulatory device for use in a therapeutic and/or cosmetic treatment, the device comprises an organic light-emitting semiconductor which, in use, covers an area to be treated and emits electromagnetic radiation to cause said therapeutic and/or cosmetic treatment of the area. The light source may be extensive to provide uniform irradiation of the area to be treated and may be pulsed. The device may also include a photopharmaceutical. |
| US09067058B2 |
Nano multipole rings for medical microleads
One embodiment of the invention relates to a multipolar lead for implantation in a venous, arterial, or lymphatic network, and for use with an electric stimulation or detection device. The invention includes at least two microcables, each having a central conductor for connection to the electric stimulation or detection device. The invention further includes a first ring having at least two lumens, each sized to receive a microcable of the at least two microcables, wherein one of the at least two lumens is a connection lumen which receives a first microcable of the at least two microcables. The ring further includes a connection element movable into the connection lumen to pierce a sheath of the first microcable and to press into the central conductor of the first microcable received by the connection lumen, electrically connecting at least a portion of the first ring to the central conductor. |
| US09067048B2 |
Medication liquid supporting jig and method of applying medication to micro-needle using same
Provided are a jig for uniformly applying a drug liquid to a microneedle, and a method of applying a drug to a microneedle using same. Grooves of a number corresponding to the number of rows of small needles of a microneedle are formed in the surface of a flat plate jig or of a roller-like jig, and a drug liquid is filled and held in the grooves. The drug liquid is applied to the microneedle by inserting the small needles of the microneedle into the surface of the drug liquid held in the narrow grooves, and immersing the small needles in the drug liquid. By this, the drug liquid is uniformly applied to the small needles of the microneedle without unevenness between the central section and the peripheral section of each microneedle, and thus the microneedles having good quality can be easily manufactured. |
| US09067047B2 |
Injectable controlled release fluid delivery system
Embodiments of a material delivery device including a deformable reservoir and associated controllable output mechanism are described. Methods of use and control of the device are also disclosed. According to some embodiments, a material delivery device may be placed in an animal in order to controllably dispense at least one material into the animal. The material delivery device may include a programmable mechanism to control the release of the material into the animal. In selected embodiments, a remote controller may be used to program or to control the material delivery device. Some embodiments are described wherein a magnetic field, an electric field, or electromagnetic control signal may be used. |
| US09067045B2 |
Balloon catheter and method for making same
In at least one embodiment of the present invention a balloon catheter is provided. The balloon catheter comprises a shaft having a lumen formed therethrough. Connected to the shaft is an inflatable balloon. The inflatable balloon has a balloon wall defining a balloon interior surface and a balloon exterior surface that is opposite the interior surface. In fluid communication with the balloon wall is the lumen for inflating the balloon to define an inflated state and for collapsing the balloon to define a deflated state. The balloon wall is textured in the deflated state such that the balloon interior surface is spatially registered with the balloon exterior surface. The balloon in the inflated state is tensioned to have a surface roughness substantially less than a surface roughness of the balloon in the deflated state. |
| US09067044B2 |
Method, system and apparatus for integrated dynamic neural stimulation
A method for integrated dynamic neural stimulation. The method can include selecting a tone for playback, adjusting the characteristics of the tone, selecting program options for modifying the playback of the tone, selecting an accompaniment to the tone, generating an audio program by combining the tone and the accompaniment according to the selected program options, and playing the audio program via an audio output device having at least a right channel and a left channel. |
| US09067042B2 |
Steerable stylet with guidewire tip
According to an embodiment of the present invention, a steerable elongated medical device includes an outer tube extending between an outer tube proximal segment and an outer tube distal segment, and having an outer tube wall forming an outer tube lumen and an elongated outer tube slot through the outer tube wall to the outer tube lumen. The elongated outer tube slot has a first portion and a second portion and is formed between an outer tube slot proximal end and an outer tube slot distal end and extends axially along the outer tube distal segment through an outer tube slot length to define a cutaway portion of the outer tube. A reinforcing sleeve is positioned within the outer tube lumen and extends between a reinforcing sleeve proximal end and a reinforcing sleeve distal end. The reinforcing sleeve forms a reinforcing sleeve slot portion aligned with and extending along the first portion of the outer tube slot and includes a reinforcing sleeve overlap portion extending over the second portion of the outer tube slot. A handle is coupled to the outer tube proximal end, and a pull wire is positioned within the outer tube lumen and extends between a pull wire proximal end coupled to the handle and a pull wire distal end comprising a guidewire tip. The pull wire extends through the reinforcing sleeve lumen, the outer tube lumen, and a distal pull wire stop, and the guidewire tip extending distally from the distal pull wire stop and the pull wire proximal end is adapted to be manipulated to separate the pull wire proximal end from the outer tube proximal end to induce a bend in the cutaway portion. |
| US09067038B2 |
Valve system for use with a flexible gas supply tube extending to a patient
Low pressure oxygen or other breathable gas is supplied from a tank or other source to a patient or other person through a flexible plastic tube, and a safety valve system is connected between the source and the tube. The valve system includes a valve member having a tubular outlet portion and supported for axial movement within a valve body having an inlet connected to the gas source. Fluid passages are formed within the valve member and valve body, and the valve member shifts axially to an open position in response to connecting the flexible tube to the tubular outlet portion of the valve member. The valve member shifts to a closed position in response to removing the tube from the tubular outlet portion, and the supply gas holds the valve member in the closed position. |
| US09067037B2 |
Adjusting a position of a heating wire within a breathing circuit
A wire adjuster for adjusting a position of an element within a limb of a breathing circuit. The wire adjuster comprises an interior wall engaging portion configured for engaging a surrounding interior wall of said limb and an element receiving portion coupled with the interior wall engaging portion, wherein the element receiving portion is configured for releasably securing the element as the wire adjuster is movably engaging with the surrounding interior wall, such that the wire adjuster can be used to selectively locate an element within the limb of the breathing circuit. |
| US09067036B2 |
Removing condensation from a breathing circuit
A device for humidifying respiratory gases is provided. The device includes: an all-polymer humidification chamber; a heating element positioned independently and proximate to the humidification chamber; a base unit supporting the humidification chamber; a computer that sends adjustment instructions to a water filling valve coupled with the humidification chamber; a plurality of sensors determining light within the humidification chamber and coupled with the base unit; an airflow conduit coupled with the humidification chamber; a heater wire within the airflow conduit; and an insulation material with grooves thereon surrounding the heater wire. The adjustment instructions instruct the water filling valve to self-adjust to meet a predetermined water level objective. The airflow conduit delivers gas to the patient. The heater wire heats the gas being delivered. The grooves on the insulation wire wick water within the humidification chamber away to re-evaporation regions. |
| US09067032B2 |
Method for treatment of lung infections by administration of aminoglycosides by aerolisation
The present invention regards a novel administration form and a novel administration regime useful in the treatment and prevention of a bacterial lung infection in patient in need thereof, in particular by providing a composition useful for aerosolization of a highly concentrated solution of aminoglycosides such as Tobramycin. |
| US09067031B2 |
Metered dose valves and dispensers
A metered dose valve for use in a pressurized metered dose dispenser for dispensing a metered dose of an aerosol formulation comprising particles of a medicament suspended in liquefied propellant, optionally in combination with one or more excipients, the valve comprising a metering chamber and at least one porous, fluid permeable, particulate semi-permeable body, the at least one porous body being positioned within a region of the interior conduit of the valve, for example within the metering chamber, or a pre-metering chamber and/or an internal channel upstream of the metering chamber. |
| US09067030B2 |
Filter interface for multimodal surgical gas delivery system
A surgical gas delivery system is disclosed that includes a device housing supporting a control unit and a filter interface having a seat for receiving a filter cartridge, the filter cartridge having a filter housing defining an interior reservoir, wherein sensors are coupled to the control unit for sensing a level of liquid within the reservoir of the filter cartridge to prevent contamination of the device, and wherein a set of blocking valves are provided in the device housing for interacting with the filter cartridge when it is received in the filter interface to control flow through suction and pressure lines of the device, and wherein the control unit is adapted to recognize a characteristic of the filter cartridge received in the filter interface. |
| US09067029B2 |
Aerosol aspirator and aerosol sucking method
An aerosol aspirator has a casing (2) with a mouthpiece (8) and an outside air inlet (52), a generation passage (56, 60, 68) extending from the outside air inlet (52) to the mouthpiece (8), a syringe pump (18) arranged within the casing (2) to deliver a solution to a distributing position (A) in the generation passage in a fixed amount each time it is activated, and a tubular heater (58) disposed downstream of the distributing position (A) and forming a part of the generation passage. When a user sucks at the mouthpiece (8), the solution at the distributing position (A) is transferred from the position (A) into the heater (58), and within the heater, atomized, and then turns into an aerosol by condensing in sucked air flow, and the aerosol thus formed is sucked by the user with the air flow. |
| US09067027B2 |
Flow reversing device and fluid treatment apparatus
The invention relates to a multi-ports extracorporeal medical device (1) having a selector body (19) which can be linearly displaced within the housing (16) in order to create different flow paths and connection among the ports. The device can for instance be used for reversing the flow in an extracorporeal blood circuit. |
| US09067024B2 |
Safety device for a pre-filled syringe and injection device
A safety device for a pre-filled syringe comprises a hollow support body to retain the pre-filled syringe, a retaining collar and a rotating collar arranged within the support body. The retaining collar is releasably mounted to the support body. The rotating collar is slidable along an axial length of the support body and rotatable around a central axis of the safety device. The retaining collar is movable with respect to the support body in a proximal direction when the retaining collar is released from being mounted to the support body by the rotating collar. |
| US09067023B2 |
Ergonomic syringe and adaptor
An ergonomic syringe includes a slide member, wherein force exerted on the slide member causes movement of a syringe plunger within a hollow or partially hollow syringe barrel, for withdrawing fluid from a source into the syringe, and also includes a reusable adaptor for use with existing conventional syringes, which has a ring that wholly or partially encircles the barrel and indirectly attaches to a plunger flange. |
| US09067022B2 |
Injection amount measuring apparatus
An injection amount measuring apparatus for a syringe indicated with injection amount absolute value information is provided. The injection amount measuring apparatus includes an injection amount absolute value information extracting unit configured to extract the injection amount absolute value information; a control unit configured to analyze the extracted injection amount absolute value information to determine injection amount information for an injection amount to be injected from the syringe; and a storage unit configured to store the injection amount information. |
| US09067020B2 |
Needleless injector wand assembly
A needleless injector syringe includes a tubular barrel containing a first chamber for receiving a liquid, a nozzle on a front end of the barrel, a piston which drives a plunger for discharging the liquid through the nozzle, a second chamber in which the piston slides, a third chamber in fluid communication with the second chamber for receiving gas from said second chamber during forward movement of the piston, and for carrying gas to the second chamber to cause the piston to retract, and a breach plug closing a rear end of the barrel for directing gas under pressure alternately against the rear end of the piston and to the third chamber for driving the piston between the discharge position and a retracted position. |
| US09067019B2 |
Needleless injector
A pistol-shaped needleless injector includes a readily replaceable barrel (36) in the front end thereof facilitating adjustment of the dosage administered using the injector. A disposable nozzle (98) mountable on a holder (97) extending outwardly from the front discharge end of the barrel (36) provides an indication that the nozzle (98) has been used and should be discarded. |
| US09067017B2 |
Flow system of a dialysis device and a portable dialysis device
There is provided a flow system of a dialysis device including a dialysate conduit which is capable of being in fluid communication with the peritoneal cavity of a patient's body and of being in fluid communication with a flow path, the flow path allowing dialysate to flow from a patient's body to a sorbent capable of removing contaminants within the dialysate in an outflow mode and in an inflow mode returning the dialysate substantially free of contaminants to the patient's body. The device also includes a pump for moving the dialysate along the flow path in both the outflow mode and inflow mode and a plurality of valves disposed along the flow path. There is also provided a portable dialysis device. |
| US09067012B2 |
Rugged IV infusion device
A rugged infusion device capable of exerting consistent pressure onto an IV bag for intravenous medical use, wherein said device and said IV bag are surrounded by a rugged outer shell having a proximal and distal parts with respect to the device, said distal part comprising one or more of a flow regulator, a modulator, and a flow meter for regulating, smoothing, and measuring the flow of fluids effused from the IV bag, wherein said rugged proximal parts are capable of absorbing impacts to minimize the force imparted to the rugged infusion device. |
| US09067004B2 |
Method and system for removing oxygen and carbon dioxide during red cell blood processing using an inert carrier gas and manifold assembly
A portable assembly for processing red blood cells RBCs including a disposable blood collection set including a blood bag, an anaerobic storage bag and an oxygen and/or oxygen and carbon dioxide depletion device disposed between the blood collection bag and anaerobic storage bag. The portable assembly further provides for a gas circulation device in fluid communication with the oxygen or oxygen and carbon dioxide depletion device. The gas circulation device includes a pressure source that is able circulate flushing gas through the depletion device as RBCs pass from the blood collection bag, through the depletion device and into the anaerobic storage bag. |
| US09066995B2 |
Bone substitute material
The invention relates to: —a porous biphasic calcium phosphate/hydroxyapatite (CAP/HAP) bone substitute material comprising a sintered CAP core and at least one uniform and closed epitactically grown layer of nanocrystalline HAP deposited on top of the sintered CAP core, whereby the epitactically grown nanocrystals have the same size and morphology as human bone mineral, i.e. a length of 30 to 46 nm and a width of 14 to 22 nm, which is impregnated with collagen fibers at a weight ratio of said collagen fibers to said porous biphasic calcium phosphate/hydroxyapatite (CAP/HAP) bone substitute material of at least 2%, —a process of preparing the above porous CAP/HAP bone substitute material, which comprises (a) mixing a slurry of collagen fibers and a porous biphasic calcium phosphate/hydroxyapatite (CAP/HAP) bone substitute material comprising a sintered CAP core and at least one uniform and closed epitactically grown layer of nanocrystalline HAP deposited on top of the sintered CAP core, whereby the epitactically grown nanocrystals have the same size and morphology as human bone mineral, i.e. a length of 30 to 46 nm and a width of 14 to 22 nm, and (b) eliminating the water by vacuum suction, —an implant which comprises a porous collagen matrix surrounding and impregnating particles or granules of porous biphasic calcium phosphate/hydroxyapatite (CAP/HAP) bone substitute material comprising a sintered CAP core and at least one uniform and closed epitactically grown layer of nanocrystalline HAP deposited on top of the sintered CAP core, whereby the epitactically grown nanocrystals have the same size and morphology as human bone mineral, i.e. a length of 30 to 46 nm and a width of 14 to 22 nm, —the use of the above bone substitute material as implant or prosthesis for bone formation, bone regeneration, bone repair and/or bone replacement at a defect site in a human or animal. |
| US09066994B2 |
Demineralized cancellous strip DBM graft
An osteoimplant includes at least partially demineralized cancellous bone as a substrate, which is impregnated with demineralized cortical bone matrix (DBM). The implant may include a binding agent to adhere the DBM to the cancellous bone substrate, and may also include a soft tissue barrier that covers a portion of the external surface of the implant. The cancellous bone substrate may be selectively demineralized, so as to provide regions with greater malleability, and other regions with greater structural properties. |
| US09066991B2 |
Modification of enzymatic crosslinkers for controlling properties of crosslinked matrices
Improved matrix or hydrogel that is formed by enzymatic crosslinking of polymers wherein the crosslinking enzyme molecules have been modified for the purpose of improving the crosslinking density, mechanical properties, or other properties of the matrix, and/or to provide improved control over the rate and/or extent of crosslinking, wherein the enzyme molecules are modified to alter the perceived volume of the enzyme molecules in the crosslinked matrix being formed. Methods of production and of use are also provided. |
| US09066989B2 |
Silver containing wound dressing
A wound dressing having anti-microbial activity comprises a first fiber capable of bonding with silver (1) cations. The wound dressing comprises a blend of the first fiber to which silver (1) cations are bonded and a second fiber which is substantially free from silver. The wound dressing comprises from 0.01 to 5.0 percent by weight of silver (1) cations, based on the weight of fiber. |
| US09066982B2 |
Bacterially-derived, intact minicells that encompass plasmid-free functional nucleic acid for in vivo delivery to mammalian cells
Intact, bacterially-derived minicells can safely introduce therapeutically effective amount of plasmid-free functional nucleic acid to target mammalian cells. To this end, functional nucleic acid can be packaged into intact minicells directly, without resort to expression constructs, the expression machinery of the host cell, harsh chemicals or electroporation. |
| US09066980B2 |
Liquid pharmaceutical formulations of palonosetron
The present invention relates to shelf-stable liquid formulations of palonosetron for reducing chemotherapy and radiotherapy induced emesis with palonosetron. The formulations are particularly useful in the preparation of intravenous and oral liquid medicaments. |
| US09066977B2 |
Method of utilization of combination of benzophenone derivative or salt thereof and immunosuppressing agent, and pharmaceutical composition comprising these components
Disclosed are use of a benzophenone derivative represented by general formula (I) or a salt thereof and one or more immunosuppressing agents in combination, and a pharmaceutical composition containing the benzophenone derivative or a salt thereof and one or more immunosuppressing agents. The use and the composition are useful for treatment or prevention of autoimmune diseases and the like. (In the formula, R1 represents an optionally substituted heterocyclic group, a substituted phenyl group or the like; Z represents an alkylene group or the like; R2 represents a carboxyl group, which may be protected by an alkyl group, or the like; R3 represents an optionally protected hydroxyl group or the like; R4 represents an optionally substituted cycloalkyloxy group or the like; and R5 represents a hydrogen atom or the like.) |
| US09066973B2 |
Weight loss composition and method
A composition is provided for promoting weight loss. This comprises a component for supporting healthy thyroid function; a component for increasing satiety; a component for inhibiting carbohydrate uptake and usage; a component for increasing calorie expenditure; and a component for increasing fatty acid oxidation therefore improving lean body composition. A method promoting weight loss in a human is also provided. The method comprises the following steps: supporting healthy thyroid function; increasing satiety; inhibiting carbohydrate uptake and usage; increasing calorie expenditure; and increasing fatty acid oxidation therefore improving lean body composition. |
| US09066972B2 |
Amide dendrimer compositions
Amide compounds, amide polymers, compositions including amide compounds and amide polymers may be used to bind target ions, such as phosphorous-containing compounds in the gastrointestinal tract of animals. In some cases, amide compounds and amide polymers may include a core derived from an amide polyol and an organic polyacid or ester. |
| US09066971B2 |
Method for treating and diagnosing cancer by using cell-derived microvesicles
Disclosed is a method for the treatment and/or diagnosis of cancer, using bacterial cell-derived microvesicles, which is highly effective in cancer therapy with a significant reduction in side effects. Also, a method is provided for delivering of a drug therapeutic or diagnostic for a disease, using bacterial cell-derived microvesicles loaded with the drug, thereby treating and diagnosing the disease effectively and specifically. |
| US09066970B2 |
Pharmaceutical compositions containing substituted 6-deoxy-6-sulfanylcyclodextrin
The present invention relates to pharmaceutical compositions containing substituted 6-deoxy-6-sulfanylcyclodextrins as well as their use as osmotic agents, in particular for use in dialysis therapy. |
| US09066968B2 |
Fluid for peritoneal dialysis
The present invention has an object to provide a fluid for peritoneal dialysis with satisfactory body fluid removability, high biocompatibility, and improved storage stability, and the object is attained by a fluid for peritoneal dialysis containing one or more saccharides selected from cyclonigerosylnigerose, cyclomaltosylmaltose, and L-ascorbic acid 2-glucoside. |
| US09066960B2 |
Use of the effective fraction of alkaloids from mulberry twig in preparing hypoglycemic agents
The present invention relates to an effective fraction of alkaloids and the effective fraction is prepared from mulberry twig and its active ingredients are a composition of alkaloids. Determined by HPLC, the percentage of the total alkaloids are 50% or more by weight in the effective fraction and the percentage of the compound 1-deoxynojirimycin is 30% or more by weight in the total alkaloids. The effective fraction of the invention is prepared as the following steps: the mulberry twig is extracted by solvents, and the extract is precipitated by alcohol precipitation or flocculation to remove the impurities, and then concentrated, purified by resin chromatography. The present invention also relates to a pharmaceutical composition containing the said effective fraction of alkaloids and to the use of the effective fraction of alkaloids according to claim 1-4 in preparing hypoglycemic agents. |
| US09066957B2 |
Dry powder inhaler
This invention provides a dry powder inhaler comprising: a dry powder medicament comprising fluticasone propionate, salmeterol xinafoate and a lactose carrier; wherein, the delivered dose of salmeterol per actuation is less than 50 μg; and wherein the dose provides a baseline-adjusted FEV1 in a patient of more than 150 mL within 30 minutes of receiving the dose. A method of treating a patient includes administering to a patient a dry powder medicament having fluticasone propionate, salmeterol xinafoate and a lactose carrier; wherein, the delivered dose of salmeterol per actuation is less than 50 μg; and wherein the dose provides a baseline-adjusted FEV1 in a patient of more than 150 mL within 30 minutes of receiving the dose. |
| US09066955B2 |
Water-soluble meloxicam granules
Water soluble meloxicam granules include meloxicam, a salt forming agent which forms the meglumine, sodium, potassium, or ammonium salt of meloxicam, a binder, a sugar or sweetener, and a carrier, and a flavoring agent. |
| US09066952B1 |
Rejuvenating hair oil system and method of use
A rejuvenating hair oil system with a pre-shampoo treatment and a post-shampoo treatment and a method of use that promotes healthful hair growth and improved hair appearance. The pre-shampoo treatment is a mixture of oils that provides moisturization as well as healing the scalp. The post-shampoo treatment is a mixture that contains a variety of oils and extracts derived from fruit, herbs, plants, animals as well as the flowers and seeds of various trees. The natural oil carriers are generally also act as moisturizers. Other oils and extracts provide antioxidants, anti-inflammatory compounds, antimicrobials, and penetrating compounds. The pre-shampoo treatment is applied to the hair and scalp five to ten minutes before shampooing and the hair is covered with a plastic cap. In between shampooing, a small amount of the post-shampoo treatment is applied to the hair and scalp as needed. |
| US09066950B2 |
Analgesic compositions
Embodiments of the invention relates to pharmaceutical compositions for use in the treatment of pain and inflammation in mammals, including humans, by administering compositions comprising i) an effective amount of an analgesic having an optional anti-inflammatory effect; (ii) an amount of caffeine effective in enhancement of pain relief; and, (iii) an amount of B vitamins effective in enhancement of pain relief. |
| US09066945B2 |
Ectoparasiticidal active substance combinations
The present application relates to active compound combinations of pyrazin-2-ylpyrazoles (component A) with at least one further ectoparasiticide or synergists (component B), and to products comprising such active compound combinations. These active compound combinations are suitable for controlling animal pests in the field of veterinary medicine. |
| US09066940B2 |
Pharmaceutical compositions comprising imidazoquinolin(amines) and derivatives thereof suitable for local administration
The present invention relates in general to the field of modulators of the innate immune system, particularly to pharmaceutical compositions comprising imidazoquinolin(amines) and derivatives thereof, preferably suitable for local administration, such as, intravesical administration. In addition, the present invention concerns the use of imidazoquinolin(amines) and derivatives thereof for intravesical treatment of bladder diseases, such as, for example, bladder cancer and cystitis. The present invention furthermore comprises methods of treatment for these diseases as well as methods of administration of the inventive pharmaceutical compositions. |
| US09066938B2 |
GPBP-1 inhibition and its therapeutic use
The present invention provides compositions including anti-tumor agents and inhibitors of Goodpasture antigen binding protein, p21, and ABCC7, and their use in treating cancer. |
| US09066937B2 |
Lipoxygenase and its use in wound healing
Epidermal lipoxygenase obtained from axolotl is utilized in pharmaceutical or cosmetic compositions. The compositions have use in wound healing, bone healing or conditioning of injured tissue, e.g. in wound dressings. |
| US09066935B2 |
Production of moldable bone substitute
Composites and methods of producing a moldable bone substitute are described. A scaffold for bone growth comprises nanocrystalline hydroxyapatite (HA), a bioresorbable plasticizer, and a biodegradable polymer. Plasticizers of the invention include oleic acid, tocopherol, eugenol, 1,2,3-triacetoxypropane, monoolein, and octyl-beta-D-glucopyranoside. Polymers of the invention include poly(caprolactone), poly(D,L-Lactic acid), and poly(glycolide-co lactide). Methods of regulating porosity, hardening speed, and shapeability are also described. Composites and methods are described using nanocrystalline HA produced with and without amino acids. The scaffold for bone growth described herein displays increased strength and shapeability. |
| US09066932B2 |
Hepatitis B antiviral agents
The present invention includes a method of inhibiting, suppressing or preventing HBV infection in an individual in need thereof, comprising administering to the individual a therapeutically effective amount of at least one compound of the invention. |
| US09066930B2 |
Activin receptor-like kinase-1 compositions and methods of use
Disclosed herein are methods and compositions for treating disorders associated with angiogenesis or lymphangiogenesis using ALK-1 antagonists. |
| US09066929B2 |
Therapeutic method for mesothelioma
The present invention relates to a therapeutic method and a diagnostic method using an antibody that binds to a ganglioside GM2 antigen, and a therapeutic agent and a diagnostic agent comprising as an active ingredient an antibody that binds to a ganglioside GM2 antigen. According to the present invention, the prognosis of GM2 positive mesothelioma patients can be improved by diagnosing and treating GM2 positive mesothelioma patients with a diagnostic agent and a therapeutic agent that comprise an anti-ganglioside GM2 antibody as an active ingredient. |
| US09066928B1 |
Method, composition, and kit useful for treatment of alzheimer's disease
The presently-disclosed subject matter includes methods for treating Alzheimer's disease in a subject. The subject can have Alzheimer's diseases, can be identified has being at risk for developing Alzheimer's disease, or both. The method can comprise administering a composition that includes a CD33 inhibitor, which may include a CD33 antibody. In some embodiments the composition can further comprise at least one additional component useful for treating Alzheimer's disease. The presently-disclosed subject matter also includes compositions and kits for treating Alzheimer's disease in a subject. |
| US09066927B2 |
Methods of treatment using rage fusion proteins
The present invention provides novel therapeutics and methods of treatment for diseases associated with activation of the advanced glycatioπ endproducts receptor (RAGE). |
| US09066925B2 |
Methods of stimulating liver regeneration
Provided herein are methods and compositions, including pharmaceutical compositions, for stimulating liver regeneration after partial hepatectomy, massive liver resection and toxic injury, or following liver transplantation, including small-for-size liver transplantation, by inhibiting activation of complement. |
| US09066918B2 |
Methods to improve the therapeutic benefit of suboptimally administered chemical compounds including substituted hexitols such as dianhydrogalactitol and diacetyldianhydrogalactitol
The present invention describes methods and compositions for improving the therapeutic efficacy of therapeutic agents previously limited by suboptimal therapeutic performance by either improving efficacy as monotherapy or reducing side effects. Such methods and compositions are particularly applicable to substituted hexitols such as dianhydrogalactitol and diacetyldianhydrogalactitol. |
| US09066917B2 |
Mixed metal compound
There is provided a method of producing a mixed metal compound comprising at least Mg2+ and at least Fe3+ having an aluminum content of less than 10000 ppm, having an average crystal size of less than 20 nm (200 A) comprising the steps of: (a) combining a Mg2+ salt and a Fe3+ salt with Na2CO3 and NaOH to produce a slurry, wherein the pH of the slurry is maintained at from 9 5 to 1 1, and wherein the Na2CO3 is provided at an excess of 0 to 4.0 moles than is required to complete the reaction (b) subjecting the slurry to mixing under conditions providing a power per unit volume of 0 03 to 1.6 kW/m3 (c) separating the mixed metal compound from the slurry, to obtain a crude product having a dry solid content of at least 10 wt % (d) drying the crude product either by (i) heating the crude product to a temperature of no greater than 150° C. and sufficient to provide a water evaporation rate of 0.05 to 1 5 kg water per hour per kg of dry product, or (H) exposing the crude product to rapid drying at a water evaporation rate of 500 to 50000 kg water per hour per kg of dry product. |
| US09066915B2 |
Meal replacement compositions and weight control method
A food composition having a high protein level and comprising DHA, preferably for use as a meal replacement, is administered to subjects in order to control their weight. |
| US09066912B2 |
Drug-enhanced adhesion prevention
The present invention includes methods for the inhibition of post-operative adhesion formation between tissue surfaces in a body cavity having been subjected to a surgical procedure, which methods involve administering Tranilast, or an analog thereof, directly to tissue surfaces in the body cavity in amounts and under conditions effective to inhibit formation of adhesions, and to delivery vehicles and compositions suitable for use for local, non-systemic administration of a drug to the body and directly to tissue within a body cavity having been subjected to a surgical procedure. |
| US09066911B2 |
Medicinal composition of extract of seed of Emblica officinalis and method of preparing the same
A composition having an extract of seed of Emblica officinalis. Methods of preparing extract of seed of Emblica officinalis. An amla seed blend composition having various ratios of extracts of seeds of Emblica officinalis. Nutraceutical or pharmaceutical methods for decreasing the total cholesterol, decreasing triglyceride, decreasing blood glucose level, enhancing HDL-C levels, increasing the HDL-C level to total cholesterol ratio, lowering LDL-C levels, decreasing the CRP level, decreasing the intima media thickening, reducing hair fall in mammals especially human beings. The extract of seed of Emblica officinalis, or the amla seed blend composition is more effective compared to extracts prepared from fruits of Emblica officinalis. |
| US09066907B2 |
Methods for treating burns-related systemic inflammatory response syndrome
A topical preventative medicament against burns-related systemic inflammatory response syndrome containing a low-molecular-weight chaperone as the main active ingredient. |
| US09066903B2 |
Pharmacological treatment of Parkinson's disease
The present invention relates to the co-administration of two neurotransmitter agonists to patients with motor disorders, for the purpose of symptom reduction. In particular the present invention provides methods and compositions for alleviation of akinesia, rigidity and/or tremor associated with Parkinson's disease. |
| US09066900B2 |
Interferon-β production modulating listeria strains and methods for using same
Mutant Listeria bacteria that modulate interferon-B production are provided. The subject bacteria are characterized by having a mutation in a gene chosen from a TetR gene, a LadR gene, a VirR gene, a MarR gene a MdrL gene, a MdrT gene and a MdrM gene. The subject bacteria find use in a variety of applications, where representative applications of interest include, but are not limited to: (a) use of the subject bacteria as adjuvants; (b) use of the subject bacteria as delivery vectors for introducing macromolecules into a cell; (c) use of the subject bacteria as vaccines for eliciting or boosting a cellular immune response; etc. |
| US09066899B2 |
Vaccines
The invention relates to use of an antigen derived from the circumsporozoite protein (CS) protein of Plasmodium falciparum which is expressed at the pre-erythrocytic stage of malarial infection in combination with a pharmaceutically acceptable adjuvant, in the manufacture of a medicament for vaccinating infants against malaria. |
| US09066898B2 |
Prostate-associated antigens and vaccine-based immunotherapy regimens
The present disclosure provides (a) isolated immunogenic PAA polypeptides; (b) isolated nucleic acid molecules encoding immunogenic PAA polypeptides; (c) vaccine compositions comprising an immunogenic PAA polypeptide or an isolated nucleic acid molecule encoding an immunogenic PAA polypeptide; (d) methods relating to uses of the polypeptides, nucleic acid molecules, and compositions; and (e) vaccine-based immunotherapy regimens which involve co-administration of a vaccine in combination with an immune-suppressive-cell inhibitor and an immune-effector-cell enhancer. |
| US09066894B2 |
Carbohydrate binding molecules
The present invention provides compounds, compositions, medicaments and methods comprising or using carbohydrate binding molecules. More specifically, the invention provides a means of treating diseases and/or conditions caused or contributed to by pathogens, particularly microbial pathogens and methods of screening, identifying, detecting tagging and/or labelling carbohydrates. |
| US09066891B2 |
Dendritic polyether-polyurethane thickeners
Described are associative polyether-polyurethane thickeners into which dendritic polyetherpolyols have been polymerized-in. Also described is the preparation of these thickeners, and the use thereof, in particular, in cosmetic preparations. |
| US09066890B2 |
Dye composition comprising an alkoxylated fatty alcohol ether and a fatty alcohol
The present invention relates to a composition for dyeing keratin fibers, comprising: at least one nonionic ether of a polyoxyalkylenated fatty alcohol of formula (i) R—(O-Alk)nOR′ (i), in which: —R denotes a linear or branched, saturated or unsaturated C10-C30 hydrocarbon-based radical, —R′ denotes a linear or branched, saturated or unsaturated C10-C30 hydrocarbon-based radical, which may be substituted with a hydroxyl radical, —n is an integer between 1 and 100 inclusive, and —Alk represents a linear or branched, preferably linear, (C1-C6)alkylene group such as ethylene or propylene, preferably ethylene, —at least one fatty alcohol comprising at least 20 carbon atoms; —at least one chemical oxidizing agent. The present invention also relates to a process using this composition, and to a multi-compartment device that is suitable for implementing the invention. |
| US09066885B2 |
Advanced functional biocompatible polymeric matrix containing nano-compartments
The present invention provides a novel biomaterial which is a hybrid, self-assembling biopolymeric networked film that is functionalized through hydrophobic interactions with vesicles loaded with bioactive agents. The biomaterial compound is a polymeric network of hydrophobically modified chitosan scaffolds that is taken from solution and formed as a solid film. This solid state film is capable of hydrophobic interactions with the functionalized vesicles. The vesicles include one or more lamellar structures forming one or more nano-compartments that are capable of containing similar or alternative active moieties within. Use of the film results in a degradation of the chitosan scaffold thereby releasing the active moieties within the vesicles from the scaffold. Application of the current invention occurs through various delivery mechanisms and routes of administration as will be described herein. |
| US09066884B2 |
Sericin extracted fabrics
Silk is purified to eliminate immunogenic components (particularly sericin) and is used to form fabric that is used to form tissue-supporting prosthetic devices for implantation. The fabrics can carry functional groups, drugs, and other biological reagents. Applications include hernia repair, tissue wall reconstruction, and organ support, such as bladder slings. The silk fibers are arranged in parallel and, optionally, intertwined (e.g., twisted) to form a construct; sericin may be extracted at any point during the formation of the fabric, leaving a construct of silk fibroin fibers having excellent tensile strength and other mechanical properties. |
| US09066880B2 |
Use of dihydrodehydrodiisoeugenol and preparations comprising dihydrodehydrodiisoeugenol
This invention relates to cosmetic and pharmaceutical preparations comprising (i) a diastereomer or a mixture of two or more diastereomers of the compound of formula (I) or (ii) a salt of a diastereomer or of a mixture of two or more diastereomers of the compound of formula (I) or (iii) a mixture of two or more salts of a diastereomer or of a mixture of two or more diastereomers of the compound of formula (I), a diastereomer, salt or a mixture as defined above as a drug for topical application and/or for the treatment of lipoatrophy; the non-therapeutic use of a diastereomer, salt or a mixture as defined above for the prevention, treatment or reduction of skin aging, especially skin wrinkles; the use of a diastereomer, salt or a mixture as defined above for the production of an orally administered non-pharmaceutical preparation. |
| US09066877B2 |
Bezoar-forming units for weight control
Bezoar-forming units for forming at least one temporary bezoar in a gastrointestinal organ of an animal, including a mammal, to fill a space in the said organ, are provided for weight control. The units include biodegradable fiber-based configurations of various length and shape having a first dimension and a second dimension; whereby when the bezoar-forming units are located in the given gastrointestinal organ, at least one temporary, permeable bezoar is formed. |
| US09066872B2 |
Stabilization of cosmetic compositions
Disclosed is the use of UV absorbers selected from (a1) diphenylacrylates; (a2) hydroxyphenyl triazines of formula (1), in which R1, R2 and R3 independently of one another, are C1-C18alkyl; (a3) benzotriazole derivatives of formula (2), wherein R4 is a random statistical mixture of at least three isomeric branched secondary alkyl groups each having 8 to 30 carbon atoms and having the formula (2a); E1 is a straight-chain C1-C14alkyl; E2 is a straight-chain C4-C15alkyl; wherein the total number of carbon atoms in E1 plus E2 is from 7 to 29; and R5 is C1-C5alkyl; and (a4) di-alkyl naphthalate; for stabilizing cosmetic compositions comprising (b) symmetrical triazine derivatives of formula (3), wherein A is a radical of formula (3a); or (3b) R6 and R10 independently from each other are hydrogen; C1-C18alkyl; or C6-C12aryl; R7, R8 and R9 independently from each other are hydrogen; or a radical of formula (3c), wherein, in formula (3a), at least one of the radicals R7, R8 and R9 are a radical of formula (3c); R11, R12, R13 and R14 independently from each other are hydrogen; hydroxy; halogen; C1-C18alkyl; C1-C18alkoxy; C6-C12aryl; biphenylyl; C6-C12aryloxy; C1-C18alkylthio; carboxy; —COOM; C1-C18-alkylcarboxyl; aminocarbonyl; mono- or di-C1-C18alkylamino; C1-C10acylamino; or —COOH; M is an alkali metal ion; x is 1 or 2; and y is a number from 2 to 10; and a UV-absorber selected from (c1) cinnamic acid derivatives; and (C2) dibenzoylmethane derivatives. |
| US09066864B2 |
Use of liquid medium exchange by cross flow filtration in the preparation of drug suspensions
Disclosed is a method of making particles of a drug wherein use is made of diafiltration. The diafiltration can be with anti-solvent, in which case a precipitate is obtained of particles as such. The diafiltration can also be with a pharmaceutically acceptable suspension medium. In that case several process steps of isolating, drying, transporting of particles can be avoided, because the suspension resulting from the synthesis of the particles is directly turned into a final drug product formulation. |
| US09066862B2 |
Self emulsified compositions
Provided are cosmetic compositions of incompatible cosmetic composition provided long term stability by the interfacial reaction of two immiscible polymers having complementary reactive pair functional groups. |
| US09066861B2 |
Dermaceutical cream made using sodium fusidate and steroids
The invention discloses a dermaceutical cream containing steroids and an antibacterial agent in the form of Fusidic acid, which Fusidic acid is formed in situ from Sodium Fusidate as the starting raw material, wherein Sodium Fusidate is converted into Fusidic acid under oxygen-free environment. The cream of the present invention has greater shelf-life stability and the finer particle size of the API than the conventional creams containing Fusidic acid. The cream of the present invention contains Fusidic acid as the API that has been formed in situ from Sodium Fusidate, and steroids in a cream base comprising an acid, a co-solvent, an emulsifier and a waxy material along with water, preferably purified water. |
| US09066857B2 |
Decontaminant edible product, methods of production and uses thereof
The invention relates to an edible product containing a decontaminant. Particularly, the invention relates to an edible product, for instance, a food-like product, containing an effective amount of activated charcoal to mitigate, substantially reduce or cause the cessation of at least one adverse effect associated with the ingestion of a toxic substance. The invention also relates to methods for manufacturing such a decontaminant edible product and uses thereof. |
| US09066854B2 |
Alprostadil and dyclonine for treatment of premature ejaculation
Compositions and methods for the treatment of premature ejaculation are provided wherein a composition comprising a topical anesthetic, a shear-thinning polymeric thickener, a lipophilic component that is selected from the group consisting of an aliphatic C1 to C8 alcohol, an aliphatic C8 to C30 ester, a liquid polyol and a mixture thereof, water and a buffer system that provides a buffered pH value for the composition in the range of about 3 to about 7.4 is administered to the penile meatus. |
| US09066850B2 |
Enteral feeding devices, buttons, and/or connectors
An enteral feeding device comprises a connector with a tube for establishing a fluid connection between the connector and a button; the enteral feeding device incorporating a button with an aperture; the connector's tube incorporating an ear projecting laterally from the tube; the button's aperture being substantially circular with a recessed portion sized and shaped to allow the connector's ear to be inserted into the button; wherein the button's aperture further incorporates at least one inwardly projecting ear; and the connector's tube incorporates at least one recessed channel for receiving the at least one ear during the connection of the tube to the button. |
| US09066849B2 |
Pillbox, medication management system and medication dispensing system
The invention provides a pillbox comprising a plurality of pill receiving compartments detachably connected with one another in side-by-side relation to form a unitary structure, each of the compartments being constructed to store pills to be taken at a single predetermined time and have an opening which is covered by a cover and through which 5 the compartment is accessible; wherein the unitary structure is configured such that the plurality of compartments are arranged sequentially according to a medication schedule created according to a prescription, with the compartment storing the pills to be taken first as an outermost one, and that only the opening of the outermost compartment is permitted to be uncovered all the time, and wherein the outermost compartment is removed from the 10 unitary structure after the pills contained therein are taken. The invention also provides a medication management system and a mediation dispensing system based on the pillbox. |
| US09066848B2 |
Process for making sterile aripiprazole of desired mean particle size
A process is provided for making sterile aripiprazole having an average particle size less than 100 microns but preferably greater than 25 microns employing an impinging jet crystallization procedure. The resulting bulk aripiprazole of desired particle size may be used to form a sterile freeze-dried aripiprazole formulation, which upon constitution with water and intramuscular injection releases aripiprazole over a period of at least about one week and up to about eight weeks. |
| US09066847B2 |
Storage and dispensing devices for administration of oral transmucosal dosage forms
Drug storage and dispensing devices for dispensing dosage forms to the oral mucosa of a patient are disclosed. The drug storage and dispensing device is a single dose applicator or a device which includes a means to retard or prevent saliva and/or moisture ingress such that the drug dosage forms in the device remain dry prior to administration. |
| US09066845B2 |
Electrode configuration for an implantable electroacupuncture device
An implantable electroacupuncture device (IEAD) treats a disease or medical condition of a patient through application of stimulation pulses applied at a specified acupoint or other target tissue location at a very low duty cycle. In a preferred implementation, the IEAD is an implantable, coin-sized, self-contained, leadless device having at least two electrodes attached to an outside surface of its housing, with at least one electrode on the top or bottom surface of the housing functioning as a cathode, and at least one electrode on the perimeter edge of the housing functioning as an anode. The electrodes may be segmented to include an array of smaller cathodic or anodic electrodes, each of which may be selectively turned ON or OFF so as to provide a convenient mechanism for adjusting the density of the stimulus current flowing through the cathodic electrode surface area. |
| US09066844B2 |
Device for massaging the skin
A massage device intended to be applied to the skin of a user. The massage device may include a body, at least one massage member that is fixed relative to the body, and at least one massage member that can rotate relative to the body when moved over the skin in contact therewith. At least part of the fixed massage member in contact with the skin is able to move following the path of at least part of the mobile massage member in contact with the skin so as to cause at least one skin fold to be formed between the said massage members as the device is moved around. |
| US09066842B2 |
Body rotation and securing sling and methods of use
A body rotation and securing sling having a flat sheet configured with a plurality of edges dimensioned to accommodate a side laying person's back, torso, hips and upper legs, wherein at least two edges are angled, curved, or slanted to transition between other sets of edges, a plurality of straps configured to reposition and secure the side laying person and, thus to enable a service personnel to reposition a bed ridden person by tugging or pulling on the straps to reposition and roll the laying patient from side-to-side and to secure the side laying person on one side or angled side until time for rotation to the other side. |
| US09066837B2 |
Absorbent article with annular absorbent member
An absorbent article with an annular absorbent member. The absorbent article has a liquid-permeable top sheet, a liquid-impermeable back sheet, an annular absorbent member and a second absorbent member. The annular absorbent member is disposed between the top sheet and the back sheet. The annular absorbent member absorbs and retains a liquid passing through the top sheet. The annular absorbent member defines an aperture in a central portion thereof. The second absorbent member is disposed between the annular absorbent member and the back sheet. The second absorbent member has a visible area aligned with a position of the aperture of the annular absorbent member. |
| US09066832B2 |
Incontinence article in pant form
In an incontinence article in pant form, a crotch section is connected to stomach and back sections in respective overlapping regions of the crotch section and the stomach section and the crotch section and the back section, by means of multiple adhesive strips extending spaced apart from one another in a transverse direction of the incontinence article, wherein the adhesive strips occupy essentially the entire respective overlapping region, and wherein a width at least those ones of the adhesive strips transverse to their extend that are located inwardly of other ones of the adhesive strips that are located at a border side of the respective overlapping region, is 1 mm to at most 5 mm, and wherein a width of the adhesive-free strips transverse to their extent is at least 1 mm to at most 15 mm. |
| US09066828B2 |
Endovascular delivery system with flexible and torqueable hypotube
A medical device includes an elongate metallic hypotube having an open proximal end and an opposed open distal end defining a tubular wall having an open internal diameter and an exterior diameter. The tubular wall has a first flexible portion disposed near the proximal open end and a second portion disposed near the distal open end. The first flexible portion of the hypotube includes a plurality of slots extending through the tubular wall and having a circumferential arc from about 150° to about 300°; and where adjacent slots are axially offset from one and the other from about 30° to about 60°. The medical device may be used as part of an endovascular delivery system. |
| US09066815B2 |
Spinal implant with attachment system
The embodiments of the present disclosure relate to a spinal implant assembly having features to prevent or minimize fixation elements, such as screws, from being dislodged, or from backing out over time and with use. The spinal implant assembly may comprise an implantable body having first apertures for receiving fixation elements. A plate configured to nest against the posterior portion of the implantable body and comprising one or more second apertures can be provided. These second apertures permit access to the head portions of the fixation elements. One or more locking elements are then passed through the second apertures and engage the head portions of the fixation elements. In addition, the plate may comprise an adjustable arm to allow the plate to be used with implantable bodies of different size. |
| US09066814B2 |
Implant assembly having an angled head
An implant assembly includes an implant having an upper element and a lower element coaxially aligned with one another. The upper and lower elements are configured to be displaced relative to one another along a longitudinal axis of the implant. The implant assembly also includes a setting tool having a cassette and a tool body. The cassette has a housing, a gear held by the housing, and a drive shaft driving the gear. The cassette holds the implant such that the gear engages the implant to displace the upper and lower elements relative to one another. The tool body has an inner portion and an outer portion being angled relative to one another. The cassette is mounted to the inner portion. The tool body has an outer shaft and an inner shaft rotatable received in the outer shaft. The inner shaft includes a flexible joint at the intersection of the inner and outer portions. The inner shaft drives the drive shaft of the cassette. |
| US09066812B2 |
Ostomy appliance with a leakage indicator
An ostomy device that comprises an adhesive wafer for attaching to the skin around the stoma. The wafer comprises an adhesive layer having a proximal adhesive surface and a distal surface. The distal surface is covered with a backing layer. The wafer comprises a central portion and a peripheral portion, and it comprises at least a first and a detection zone, wherein the detection zone is configured to provide a tactile sensation on the distal surface of the wafer when exposed to moisture. |
| US09066811B2 |
Artificial functional spinal unit system and method for use
A method of stabilizing a human spine is provided. The spine may be stabilized by inserting one or more dynamic interbody devices in a disc space between a first vertebra and a second vertebra. A dynamic interbody device may be inserted using an anterior approach. One or more dynamic interbody devices may be inserted using a posterior approach. One or more of the dynamic interbody devices may allow for coupled axial rotation and lateral bending of the first vertebra relative to the second vertebra. The spine may also be stabilized by installing one or more posterior dynamic stabilization systems. |
| US09066810B2 |
Compliant implant
An implant extends along a central axis, and includes first and second members spaced along the central axis. The implant can include a compliant interface. The compliant interface includes a plurality of spring members, the plurality of spring members arranged to space apart the first member from the second member along the central axis. |
| US09066809B2 |
Method for inserting and positioning an artificial disc
A method for inserting an intervertebral artificial disc is provided with the intervertebral disc including a first endplate having a plurality of protrusions for attaching to an adjacent vertebrae and an extension portion extending towards a second adjacent vertebrae. A second endplate is provided with a plurality of protrusions for attaching to a second adjacent vertebrae and an extension portion extending towards the first adjacent vertebrae. A flexible member having an upper portion and a lower portion and a slider plate positioned within the upper portion of the flexible member is also provided. The extension portion of the first endplate is adapted to fit within a first cavity in the upper portion of the flexible member and the extension portion of the second endplate is adapted to fit within a second cavity in the lower portion of the flexible member. |
| US09066808B2 |
Method of interdigitating flowable material with bone tissue
A method and system of interdigitating flowable material with spinal tissue is disclosed which in one embodiment, includes forming a structure that may partially surround a portion of the spinal material and introducing flowable material into the portion of spinal tissue surrounded by the structure. |
| US09066806B2 |
Glenoid implant
An apparatus can include a base plate. A glenosphere can be configured to be mountable to the base plate. The glenosphere can be adapted to operate with a complementary humeral component. The base plate can include a removable taper member on a side of the base plate facing the glenosphere. The taper member can be configured to mount the glenosphere to the base plate. |
| US09066803B2 |
Method for performing an orthopaedic procedure
A method for performing an orthopaedic surgical procedure on an acetabulum of a patient includes the steps of securing an acetabular shell component to an acetabulum of a patient and securing a first insert to an acetabular shell component configured to be implanted within an acetabulum of a patient. The method further includes the steps of securing a second insert to the first insert such that the outer surface of the second insert contacts the inner surface of the first insert and securing a femoral head configured to be secured to a femoral stem to the second insert such that the outer surface of the femoral head contacts the inner surface of the second insert. |
| US09066802B2 |
Rim anchoring systems for flexible surgical implants for replacing cartilage
Flexible cartilage-replacing implants are disclosed that use either or both of (1) enlarged peripheral rim components, and/or (2) elongated flexible reinforcing members that are embedded around the peripheral edge of an implant device. These types of anchoring devices, especially when used in combination, can provide flexible implants that can be implanted arthroscopically into synovial joints, for complete replacement of damaged cartilage segments. |
| US09066799B2 |
Prosthetic valve for transluminal delivery
A prosthetic valve assembly for use in replacing a deficient native valve comprises a replacement valve supported on an expandable valve support. If desired, one or more anchor may be used. The valve support, which entirely supports the valve annulus, valve leaflets, and valve commissure points, is configured to be collapsible for transluminal delivery and expandable to contact the anatomical annulus of the native valve when the assembly is properly positioned. The anchor engages the lumen wall when expanded and prevents substantial migration of the valve assembly when positioned in place. The prosthetic valve assembly is compressible about a catheter, and restrained from expanding by an outer sheath. The catheter may be inserted inside a lumen within the body, such as the femoral artery, and delivered to a desired location, such as the heart. When the outer sheath is retracted, the prosthetic valve assembly expands to an expanded position such that the valve and valve support expand within the deficient native valve, and the anchor engages the lumen wall. |
| US09066798B2 |
Woven implantable device
A prosthetic valve device, a method for making a valve device, and a method for implanting a valve device into a recipient are provided. The valve device includes at least one flexible member formed at least partially from a woven layer. The woven layer includes a first material and a second material being at least partially woven together. The at least one flexible member is movable between a first position that permits fluid flow in a first direction and a second position that substantially prevents fluid flow in a second direction. The valve has a first, unexpanded configuration and a second, expanded configuration. |
| US09066794B2 |
Patient/invalid support
A patient support includes a gel-based cushioning layer and an air distribution manifold located beneath the cushioning layer. The cushioning layer includes a plurality of transverse passageways extending therethrough to allow airflow through the cushioning layer and to the patient interface with the cushioning layer. |
| US09066789B2 |
Multifunction, contact-pressure-managing ankle boots
Apparatuses to be worn by users proximate their ankles to manage pressure and swelling, the apparatus including a wrap shaped to conform to a portion of a foot and a lower leg of the user. In some examples, the wrap defines a compressible multiple layer construction including at least one layer that including a compressible foam, a channel sized to receive a portion of the foot and the lower leg, a substantially stretchable flap sized to extend across the channel when the foot and the lower leg are positioned within the channel, a leg portion, and a foot portion, wherein the leg portion may be flexibly angled from the foot portion a bandaged area including the user's ankles. In some examples, the wrap is configured to be fitted around a portion of the user's foot and lower leg to compress at the ankle area to a selected barrier pressure. |
| US09066787B1 |
Laterally applied orthosis
A laterally applied orthosis has a dynamic flexible stiffener that is configured to extend across a joint and to impede joint movement caused by muscle contractions by resisting flexing but allowing some movement in the joint. The stiffener is elastic so that it rebounds to its original form under its inherent bias after flexing due to movement of the joint. The stiffener is housed within a brace having a plurality of adjustable straps extending from the brace. The straps can be fastened to one another or the brace itself to form a substantially tubular structure for securing the brace to a limb. At least one of the plurality of straps is semi-rigid and malleable. |
| US09066786B1 |
Laterally applied orthosis
A laterally applied orthosis having a dynamic flexible stiffener that is configured to extend across a joint and impede joint movement caused by muscle contractions by resisting flexing but allowing some movement in the joint. The stiffener is elastic so that it rebounds to its original form after flexing due to movement of the joint. The stiffener is disposed within a brace having a plurality of adjustable straps extending from the brace. The straps can be fastened to one another or the brace itself to form a substantially tubular structure for securing the brace to a limb. At least one of the plurality of straps is semi-rigid and malleable. |
| US09066783B2 |
Methods and apparatus for treating glaucoma
An ocular implant for treating glaucoma is provided, which may include any number of features. More particularly, the present invention relates to implants that facilitate the transfer of fluid from within one area of the eye to another area of the eye. One feature of the implant is that it includes a proximal inlet portion and a distal inlet portion adapted to be inserted into the anterior chamber of the eye, and an intermediate portion adapted to be inserted into Schlemm's canal. Another feature of the implant is that it can be biased to assume a predetermined shape to aid in placement within the eye. |
| US09066782B2 |
Ocular implant with therapeutic agents and methods thereof
Implants and methods for treating ocular disorders are provided. One method involves introducing an implant into an anterior chamber of an eye. The implant is implanted into eye tissue adjacent the anterior chamber such that a proximal end of the implant resides in the anterior chamber following implantation. A therapeutic agent is eluted from the implant into the eye. Desirably, the release of the therapeutic agent from the implant is controlled. The controlled release of the therapeutic agent can be at a chosen rate and/or for a selected duration which can be episodic or periodic. The therapeutic agent can be an antiproliferative agent, an anti-inflammatory drug, or a compound for treating glaucoma or ocular hypertension. |
| US09066778B2 |
Massage device having a heat reservoir
A massage device is provided with a pouch containing a liquid medium and a massage prong for imparting massage pressure on the person's body during a massage. The pouch is configured for application to the body such that it covers an area on the body substantially larger than the massage prong. The massage prong operates and applies a force to the body through the wall of the pouch. The massage prong is permitted to move within at least a portion of the area without substantial movement of the pouch relative to the body. A lubricating layer sealed present massager can provide a relaxing and therapeutic heated or cooled massage over a large area of the body while reducing pinching and friction between the skin and the massage prong. |
| US09066776B2 |
Porous material for insertion cleaning of instruments
A porous material for insertion cleaning of instruments is provided, such porous material including an at least partially open-cell foam body and a surface configured to enable an instrument having contaminants to be inserted into the body. The body may be configured to substantially grip the instrument to remove a substantial portion of the contaminants from the instrument. |
| US09066767B2 |
Mandibular fixation plate
A bone fixation implant is provided that includes a bone fixation plate and a plurality of fasteners. The bone fixation plate corresponds generally to stress lines imparted onto the mandible during anatomical function of the mandible. Thus, the bone fixation plate includes a primary leg and an auxiliary leg extending obliquely out from the primary leg. |
| US09066755B1 |
Navigable device recognition system
Systems and methods for registering objects with a surgical navigation system are described herein. In one embodiment, a method for registering objects with a surgical navigation system can include detecting identification information associated with an object using a sensing device coupled to a digital data processor and detecting a position-tracking array using the sensing device. The method can also include searching a digital data store coupled to the digital data processor that contains a listing of objects and associated identification information to identify an object having identification information that matches the identification information detected by the sensing device, and registering with the surgical navigation system an association between the position-tracking array and the identified object. |
| US09066753B2 |
Dilating stylet and cannula
An instrument set is provided that has a tapered configuration that facilitates the insertion of the instrument set into a patient. |
| US09066747B2 |
Ultrasonic surgical instrument blades
An ultrasonic surgical instrument including an ultrasonically actuated blade or end effector having a treatment portion. The blade can define a central axis and at least one axis which is transverse to the central axis, wherein the transverse axis can lie within a plane which is perpendicular, or normal, to the longitudinal axis and can define a cross-section of the treatment portion. Such a cross-section can include a central portion and a step extending from the central portion, wherein the central portion can comprise a width, and wherein the step can comprise a cutting edge. In at least one embodiment, the cutting edge can be defined by first and second surfaces which define an angle therebetween. In various embodiments, the position of the cutting edge and/or the angle between the cutting edge surfaces can be selected in order to balance the blade with respect to the transverse axis. |
| US09066744B2 |
Surgical instrument for grasping and cutting tissue
A surgical instrument for cutting and grasping tissue comprising a handle assembly, an elongated member and first and second jaws. A first movable member moves the second jaw in a first direction about a first pivot axis in a grasping action and a second movable member moves the second jaw in a second direction different than the first direction and about a second pivot axis in a cutting action. A switch is positioned at the proximal portion of the instrument and a selecting member is actuated by movement of the switch, the selecting member movable between a first position to enable movement of the second jaw in the first direction and prohibit movement in the second direction and a second position to enable movement of the second jaw in the second direction and prohibit movement in the first direction. |
| US09066743B1 |
Support system for surgical instrument
A holding device for a surgical instrument that includes a central instrument holding plate with a channel for removably receiving the neck of a weighted speculum, patient attachment straps extending from the holding plate and configured to surround a patient's thighs as a means for securing the holding plate to a patient's vaginal area, and instrument fasteners attached to the holding plate for releasably holding the weighted speculum when the weighted speculum is in use. The instrument fasteners are cooperating flexible arms that are configured to releasably hold the speculum within the channel of the holding plate. The channel sized and shaped so that it does not interfere with the functioning of the weighted speculum. |
| US09066738B2 |
Devices and methods for percutaneous energy delivery
The invention provides a system and method for percutaneous energy delivery in an effective, manner using one or more probes. Additional variations of the system include array of probes configured to minimize the energy required to produce the desired effect. |
| US09066737B2 |
Method for moving an instrument arm of a laparoscopy robot into a predeterminable relative position with respect to a trocar
A method for moving an instrument arm of a laparoscopy robot into a predeterminable position relative to a trocar placed in a patient is proposed. A spatial marker that can be localized from outside of the patient is applied to the trocar. The spatial position of the trocar is detected based on the spatial marker. The intended position of the instrument arm is established from the spatial position and the relative position. The actual position of the instrument arm is detected. The instrument arm is moved into the intended position based on the actual position, the intended position and an error minimization method. |
| US09066735B2 |
Electrosurgical system
An electrosurgical system includes at least a first unit and a second unit, the second unit being detachably connectible to the first unit and including an electrode assembly. The first unit includes a power supply, an RF oscillator circuit for generating a radio frequency output, and an output stage adapted to supply an RE output to the electrode assembly. The second unit includes an identification circuit presenting, in an alternating manner, a parameter with a first finite non-zero value for a first time period, and a parameter with a second finite value for a second time period. The first unit includes a sensing circuit and a controller adapted to detect a characteristic of the identification circuit and provide an output signal, the controller connected to the sensing circuit and receiving the output signal, adjusts the RF output so as to suit the particular electrode assembly. |
| US09066731B2 |
Instrument for removing tissue
An instrument for removing tissue from a bone to create a cavity consists of an approximately spherical body having cutting formations in its external surface for cutting a bone. The body has a connector by which it can be connected to a drive by which it can be rotated about an axis, and a recess at the pole, opposite the connector. When the instrument is applied to the surface of a bone and is rotated about its axis, bone is cut as a result of the action of the formations against the bone, and a circular region of bone adjacent to the polar recess in the body remains generally intact. |
| US09066722B2 |
Instrument for fusing and severing tissue
An instrument (10) for fusing and severing vessels in accordance with the invention comprises a first branch (19) with a first electrode (33) and a second branch 20 that is supported so as to be movable toward and away from the first electrode (33), wherein the second branch (20) has a longitudinal slit (31). A knife (21) is arranged in said slit so as to be movable longitudinally relative to the shaft (11). The knife (21) is associated with a vertical adjustment mechanism (54) for adjusting the knife (21) perpendicularly to the longitudinal movement as a function of the longitudinal movement of said knife. As a result of this, a premature dulling of the tip (28b) or the sliding edge (28a) of the knife 21 due to contact with the ceramic base body (23) or the edges or the step (55) is avoided. |
| US09066719B2 |
Device and method for delivering shape-memory staples
Some embodiments relate to a device for delivering shape-memory staples. The device comprises a grippable portion comprising a first actuator; and a delivery portion coupled to the grippable portion. The delivery portion comprises retention walls for retaining the staples within the delivery portion in an elastically deformed configuration and release apertures for releasing the staples to adopt a deployed configuration based on their shape memory. The delivery portion is configured to cause one end of each staple to protrude from the delivery portion in response to actuation of the first actuator. In some embodiments a striking mechanism is coupled to the grippable portion and configured to communicate a striking blow to the delivery portion. |
| US09066714B2 |
Tissue stabilizing device and methods including a self-expandable head-link assembly
A tissue stabilizer including an elongated arm, a collet, and a head-link assembly. The collet is disposed at a distal end of the arm. The head-link assembly includes a tube and a spreading mechanism. The tube forms an intermediate section and opposing arms each terminating at a tip. The spreading mechanism can adjust a lateral distance between the tips, and includes first and second articulating members each having a leg and a collet interface body. The first member further includes a female hinge feature, whereas the second member includes a male hinge feature differing from the female hinge feature. The legs of are mounted to discrete regions of the tube, and the male hinge feature is pivotably coupled to the female hinge feature. Automatic spreading of a lateral distance between the tips occurs in response to a compressive force applied to the collet interface bodies. |
| US09066708B2 |
Methods to generate luminal organ profiles using impedance
Methods to generate luminal organ profiles using impedance. One embodiment of such a method comprises the steps of introducing an impedance device having at least two detection electrodes positioned in between at least two excitation electrodes into a treatment site of a luminal organ at a first position, measuring a first treatment site conductance at the first position using the impedance device and at least two injections of solutions having different conductivities, moving the impedance device to a second position in the luminal organ, measuring a second treatment site conductance at the second position using the impedance device and the at least two injections of solutions having different conductivities, calculating a first position cross-sectional area using the first treatment site conductance and a second position cross-sectional area using the second treatment site conductance, and constructing a profile of the treatment site. |
| US09066707B2 |
Heart location and verification in emission images
An apparatus comprises: an imaging system (10) configured to acquire emission data from a cyclically varying element; a monitoring instrument (20, 22) configured to measure the cyclical varying of the cyclically varying element; and an electronic device (40) configured to locate an image feature corresponding to the cyclically varying element in the acquired emission data based on correlation of time variation of the emission data with the cyclical varying of the cyclically varying element measured by the monitoring instrument. The located image feature may be verified by: thresholding a projection image generated from the emission data to generate a mask image; identifying in the mask image one of (i) a hollow circular feature, (ii) a hollow oval feature, (iii) a circular cavity feature, and (iv) an oval cavity feature; and verifying the located image feature based on whether the identifying operation is successful. |
| US09066704B2 |
X-ray imaging apparatus
An X-ray imaging apparatus comprises a grating configured to form an interference pattern by diffracting X-rays from an X-ray source, a amplitude grating configured to partly shield X-rays forming the interference pattern, and an X-ray detector configured to detect an intensity distribution of X-rays from the amplitude grating. The amplitude grating is comprised of a central area and a peripheral area and the peripheral area shows an X-ray transmittance higher than the central area relative to X-rays perpendicularly entering the amplitude grating. |
| US09066701B1 |
Systems and methods for performing neurophysiologic monitoring during spine surgery
A surgical access system comprising a tissue retraction assembly equipped with two or more electrodes for use in monitoring the status of nearby neural structures, including the localized depth of neural structures relative to one or more components of the tissue retraction assembly. Additional neurological testing may be performed to monitor the health and status of the neural structures during the portions of the surgical procedure in which the tissue retraction assembly is used to maintain the operative corridor. |
| US09066698B2 |
Systems and methods for sample collection
A tube assembly, system and method for biological sample collection. In one embodiment, the tube assembly of the present disclosure includes a first tube, a second tube, a mechanism for securing the first and second tubes. The securing mechanism orients the first ends of the first and second tubes in a manner such that the first end of the second tube extends beyond the first end of the first tube to create an interstitial space between the outer diameter of the first tube and the inner diameter of the second tube. |
| US09066694B2 |
Analyte monitoring device and methods of use
An analyte monitor includes a sensor, a sensor control unit, and a display unit. The sensor has, for example, a substrate, a recessed channel formed in the substrate, and conductive material disposed in the recessed channel to form a working electrode. The sensor control unit typically has a housing adapted for placement on skin and is adapted to receive a portion of an electrochemical sensor. The sensor control unit also includes two or more conductive contacts disposed on the housing and configured for coupling to two or more contact pads on the sensor. A transmitter is disposed in the housing and coupled to the plurality of conductive contacts for transmitting data obtained using the sensor. The display unit has a receiver for receiving data transmitted by the transmitter of the sensor control unit and a display coupled to the receiver for displaying an indication of a level of an analyte. The analyte monitor may also be part of a drug delivery system to alter the level of the analyte based on the data obtained using the sensor. |
| US09066693B2 |
Device for measuring the blood flow of a body tissue
A device for measuring the blood flow of a body tissue comprises a catheter having a catheter head for the insertion into the inside of a body tissue and a center piece having a light emission surface, out of which an optical conductor leads, and having a reflection surface, which is disposed opposite of the light emission surface and oriented obliquely to the longitudinal axis of the optical conductor. The optical conductor is disposed such that an emitted light beam is directed at the reflection surface, the emitted light beam can be deflected at the reflection surface and reflected into the body tissue, and a reflected light beam can be reflected out of the body tissue at the reflection surface and fed into the optical conductor. The catheter head is divided into an insertion region and a connecting region, wherein the insertion region comprises a plurality of recesses on the surface thereof. In the direction of the connecting region, the insertion region has an increasing diameter. The recesses are provided in the insertion region such that webs are formed in the direction of the connecting region between the recesses along the surface of the catheter head. |
| US09066691B2 |
Using a continuous wavelet transform to generate a reference signal
According to embodiments, systems and methods for generating reference signals are provided. A signal may be transformed using a continuous wavelet transform. Regions of interest may be selected from a transform or the resulting scalogram that may be used to generate a reference signal to use in filtering the signal or other signals. Cross-correlation techniques may be used to cancel noise components or isolate non-noise components from the signal. A physiological parameter may then be determined from the filtered signal or isolated components in the signal. |
| US09066687B2 |
Panoramic dental x-ray unit
A panoramic dental x-ray unit. The unit includes a support rotating about an axis and carrying, in the opposite position, an x-ray source and detector which move following a predetermined trajectory. The unit further includes means for acquiring images of the dental arch of a patient corresponding to the positions of the detector and of the source with respect to the dental arch. There is also provided means for reconstruction of a two portions of a panoramic image corresponding respectively to two disconnected portions of the dental arch, the reconstruction being performed from certain acquired images which each contain at least one piece of information concerning the two disconnected portions of the dental arch. |
| US09066685B2 |
Multiple sclerosis therapeutic methods using therapeutic delivery devices and systems
Methods and devices are disclosed that, in various embodiments and permutations and combinations of inventions, diagnose and treat Multiple Sclerosis or associated symptoms. In one series of embodiments, the invention consists of methods and devices for identifying patients whose Multiple Sclerosis or associated symptoms are caused or exacerbated, at least in part, by blockages of one or more of the patient's internal jugular veins (IJV) or azygous veins (AZV). In some instances, stenoses or other flow limiting structures or lesions in the patient's affected veins are identified. Further, in some instances the nature of such lesions and whether there is a significant disruption of blood pressure, or both, is ascertained. In some embodiments, methods and devices for applying one or more therapies to the blockages in the patient's IJV or AZV veins are provided. |
| US09066684B2 |
Respiration detecting arrangement
The present application is directed to a detector to detect or generate measuring signals that are indicative of the respiration of a person, wherein said detector can be used advantageously in view of hygiene and stands out due to a simple and robust configuration. According to a first aspect, the detector detects a signal that is indicative of the activity of the respiratory muscles of a person to be examined, the detector comprising a band which, in the application position, is passed around a torso region which widens and narrows when the person to be examined breathes, as well as a structure that is included in the band and loaded in accordance with the narrowing or widening of the torso region. The structure is configured such that it causes a change in the volume of a measuring space device depending on a tensile force. It is thus advantageously possible to detect or measure the forces acting on the band in a non-electric manner and, on the basis of this detection or measurement, draw conclusions relating to the widening or narrowing of the torso. |
| US09066683B2 |
Portable wavefront aberrometer
A module for use with a mobile device to measure an aberration of a patient's eye includes a light shaft having a proximal end and a distal end, and a light source. The light shaft includes a first plurality of optical components arranged to direct light along a first light path from the light source to the proximal end, and a second plurality of optical components arranged to direct light along a second light path from the proximal end to a light detector of the mobile device. A connector at the distal end includes at least one guide component for positioning the distal end adjacent to the light detector. When the distal end is positioned adjacent to the light detector, the first plurality of optical components directs light along the first light path and the second plurality of optical components directs light along the second light path. |
| US09066680B1 |
System for determining confidence in respiratory rate measurements
This disclosure describes, among other features, systems and methods for using multiple physiological parameter inputs to determine multiparameter confidence in respiratory rate measurements. For example, a patient monitoring system can programmatically determine multiparameter confidence in respiratory rate measurements obtained from an acoustic sensor based at least partly on inputs obtained from other non-acoustic sensors or monitors. The patient monitoring system can output a multiparameter confidence indication reflective of the programmatically-determined multiparameter confidence. The multiparameter confidence indication can assist a clinician in determining whether or how to treat a patient based on the patient's respiratory rate. |
| US09066679B2 |
Ultrasonic technique for assessing wall vibrations in stenosed blood vessels
A real-time signal processing technique for ultrasonic imaging of tissue vibrations for localizing the source of a bruit in a 2D image with respect to the anatomy and/or for obtaining simultaneous information about vibrations and the underlying blood flow. The bruit can be quantitatively assessed using an ensemble of ultrasound echoes. Signal processing enables estimation of wall displacement and the display of time-resolved vibration spectrum. Vibrations are detected and color-coded according to their amplitude and frequency and overlaid on the B-mode and/or color-flow image in real time. Proposed vibration imaging algorithms use data acquired during conventional ultrasonic color-flow imaging and the clutter signal, normally suppressed in color-flow imaging, to detect and characterize tissue vibrations. Three vibration imaging algorithms based on parametric modeling of vibrations and other criteria distinguish between clutter, blood flow, and vibrations. The techniques are usable to detect, locate, image, and quantitatively grade stenoses in blood vessels. |
| US09066673B2 |
Wireless/intervention-independent scan plane control for an MRI to track a catheter in a body
Example systems, apparatus, circuits, and so on described herein concern intervention-independent scan plane control for an MRI system. A tracking device capable of being manipulated independently of an interventional device in use to treat a patient transmits position signals describing an orientation of the tracking device to an MRI system. The MRI system determines a desired scan plan that will correspond to the orientation of the tracking device and performs a diagnostic scan on the desired scan plan. |
| US09066669B2 |
Apparatus and methods for fitting attachments
Embodiments of the present invention provide a system and a method for attaching peripheral devices (such as collimators and electron applicators) to a system such as a radiotherapy system or radiography system. By re-using the lifting mechanism of the patient support to lift the peripheral device vertically, the invention reduces the need for heavy manual lifting. |
| US09066667B1 |
System and method for testing dynamic visual acuity and/or gaze stabilization
A system for testing the vision of a subject is disclosed herein. The system includes a motion sensing device, the motion sensing device configured to measure a velocity or speed of a head of a subject; a visual display device having an output screen, the visual display device configured to display one or more visual objects on the output screen so that the one or more visual objects are visible to the subject; and a data processing device, the data processing device operatively coupled to the motion sensing device and the visual display device, the data processing device being specially programmed to carry out the steps of the vision tests. A method for the testing the vision of a subject is also disclosed herein. The vision tests may assess the dynamic visual acuity and/or the gaze stabilization of the subject. |
| US09066662B2 |
System and method for estimating cardiac pressure based on cardiac electrical conduction delays using an implantable medical device
Techniques are provided for estimating left atrial pressure (LAP) or other cardiac performance parameters based on measured conduction delays. In particular, LAP is estimated based interventricular conduction delays. Predetermined conversion factors stored within the device are used to convert the various the conduction delays into LAP values or other appropriate cardiac performance parameters. The conversion factors may be, for example, slope and baseline values derived during an initial calibration procedure performed by an external system, such as an external programmer. In some examples, the slope and baseline values may be periodically re-calibrated by the implantable device itself. Techniques are also described for adaptively adjusting pacing parameters based on estimated LAP or other cardiac performance parameters. Still further, techniques are described for estimating conduction delays based on impedance or admittance values and for tracking heart failure therefrom. |
| US09066659B2 |
Transient sensor response to posture as a measure of patient status
Patient posture information can be received, such as to indicate a change in patient posture by at least a threshold amount. A transient response signal indicative of a change in a physiological parameter can be received at multiple instances near a change in patient posture. Waveform morphology features can be extracted from a transient response signal and used to provide an indication of a cardiac status, such as a heart failure status. |
| US09066656B2 |
Deflectable autoclavable endoscope
An endoscope has a shaft housing a lighting and an image transmission system and said endoscope being designed to be autoclavable. The shaft has a distal end portion which is made deflectable. An outer part is provided which is attached to said shaft. The outer part has a deflector mechanism for deflecting said deflectable distal end portion of said shaft and said outer part can be attached to said shaft by being releasably mounted laterally onto said shaft. |
| US09066652B2 |
Method and medical device for reducing the effects of interference generated by a radio transmission from the medical device
A method of processing in a medical device an electric biological signal collected from a patient, includes: a) acquiring a plurality of samples from the electric biological signal according to a sampling process wherein each sample is taken from the electric biological signal and memorized; b) during the sampling process of a), monitoring an active/inactive status of a radio time-division-multiplexing transmission of signals from the medical device over a radio communication network; and, when the status of the radio time-division-multiplexing transmission becomes active, c) preventing in a) the acquisition of any of the plurality of samples, which according to the sampling process should be acquired during the active status of the radio time-division-multiplexing transmission, from being performed until the radio time-division-multiplexing transmission remains in the active status. |
| US09066649B2 |
Apparatus for phase-contrast imaging comprising a displaceable X-ray detector element and method
An X-ray image acquisition apparatus employing phase-contrast imaging with enlarged field of view includes an X-ray source, an X-ray detector element having a detector size, a beam splitter grating and an analyzer grating. An object is arrangeable between the X-ray source and detector. The beam splitter grating and the analyzer grating are arrangeable between the X-ray source and detector. The X-ray source, the beam splitter grating, the analyzer grating and the X-ray detector are operatively coupled such that a phase-contrast image of the object is obtainable. The apparatus is configure to acquire a phase-contrast image having a field of view larger than the detector size. The X-ray detector element is displaceable where, by the displacement of the X-ray detector, a phase-contrast image of the enlarged field of view is obtainable. |
| US09066647B2 |
Air induction hard surface cleaning tools with an internal baffle
An apparatus for cleaning surfaces, particularly solid surfaces, includes an outer housing and an inner housing configured to substantially encapsulate a surface being cleaned, a vacuum source traversing the outer housing, a rotating coupler, an impeller, at least one fluid jet coupled to the impeller, and at least one air induction port. The vacuum source is configured to induce air through the air induction ports past the impeller blades causing the impeller to rotate, which causes the rotating coupler and the fluid jets to rotate. Because the rotation of the fluid jets is due to induced air, the fluid jets can be positioned at any angle desired, including a negative angle. |
| US09066643B2 |
Surface cleaning apparatus
A hand vacuum cleaner is provided with a wand mounted to the dirty fluid inlet of the hand vacuum cleaner and the wand has a distal inlet that is mounted on a surface cleaning head. The hand vacuum cleaner has a cyclonic cleaning stage and the fluid flow motor is displaced vertically with respect to dirty fluid inlet. |
| US09066642B2 |
Surface cleaning apparatus with different cleaning configurations
A surface cleaning apparatus comprises a floor cleaning unit having a surface cleaning head, an upright section having a handle, a cleaning unit removably mounted to the handle and an air flow conduit forming part of an air flow path from the surface cleaning head to the cleaning unit, wherein the flexible air flow conduit comprises a portable portion removably mounted to the surface cleaning apparatus and a rigid extension wand. Reconfiguring the surface cleaning apparatus components permits the use of the surface cleaning apparatus in various operating modes such as a first upright operating mode wherein the surface cleaning apparatus is operable with the cleaning unit mounted to the handle, and a second operating mode wherein the cleaning unit is carried by a user and is operable when removed from the handle. |
| US09066637B2 |
Shower rod with macro and micro adjustment
An embodiment of the present invention is a shower rod assembly including a first tube, a second tube aligned with the first tube, a rod between the first tube and the second tube, a sleeve member, a bracket device, and a locking device. The rod has a macro adjustment portion, a threaded insert, and a stop member positioned between the macro adjustment portion and the threaded insert. The sleeve member slides over the tubes and can cover the rod between the tubes. The second tube engages the macro adjustment portion for a set length when the locking device is engaged. The first tube engages the threaded insert for micro adjustment of the set length to a locked length. Each bracket device has a base body with ridges, a casing with an inner core, a lock on the side of the casing and a mount. |
| US09066636B2 |
Grit and foam dispenser
One embodiment discloses a dispenser having a liquid container for holding a liquid, a liquid pump for moving the liquid from the liquid container to a first outlet, a grit container for holding grit, and an air pump for moving the grit from the container to a second outlet. The dispenser includes an actuator for actuating the liquid pump and the air pump. During operation, the liquid pump dispenses a liquid and the air pump causes air to flow through a first passageway into the grit container causing at least some grit to flow through a second passageway, out of the second outlet and into the liquid. |
| US09066627B2 |
Systems and methods for instant food preparation
Embodiments of the invention include instant food systems and methods regarding the same. In an embodiment, the invention includes a method for preparing a hot instant food product. The method can include adding a heated liquid to a container, adding a substantially dry food product mixture to the container, wherein the volume of the dry food product mixture is equal to at least 20% of the volume of heated liquid, placing a mixing head into the container, and rotating the mixing head for a period of less than sixty seconds in order to form a fully hydrated frothed food product. In an embodiment, an instant food preparation machine is included. In an embodiment, a mixing head is included. In an embodiment, an instant food preparation kit is included. Other embodiments are also included herein. |
| US09066626B2 |
Cutting board apparatus with collapsible tray
An apparatus for treating food substances, includes a cutting plate defining a longitudinal axis and having at least one cutting surface for supporting food substances and a collecting tray mounted with respect to the cutting plate. The collecting tray is dimensioned and adapted to transition between a first stored condition to facilitate storage or transport thereof and a second operative condition to provide a reservoir for collecting food substances cut on the cutting surface. |
| US09066623B2 |
Brewed beverage appliance and method
A beverage making appliance uses a specialized beverage container and a related method of brewing a beverage. The container includes a cup-shaped body having a floor, a circumferential wall, and a top opening, a filter element positioned above the floor, at least one aperture formed in the floor, and a cover releasably attached to the cup body and covering the top opening. The appliance includes a base adapted to receive a beverage receptacle, a reservoir, a housing, a brewing tray in mechanical communication with the housing and dimensioned to receive a container containing at least one drink ingredient having particles of a first size, a grinding mechanism and a water delivery mechanism to selectively deliver water from the reservoir to one of a brewed beverage outlet in fluid communication with the receptacle, and a hot-water outlet. |
| US09066621B2 |
Espresso machine or fully automatic coffee machine having automatic determination of the grain size distribution and/or the degree of grinding of ground coffee
The present invention relates to an espresso machine or a fully automatic coffee machine having a grinder and an infusion device comprising an infuser and an infusion chamber, which is characterized by a volume-determining portion designed to determine the ground volume of a defined quantity of coffee powder ground by means of the grinder, a mass-determining portion designed to determine the ground mass of this quantity of coffee powder, and a calculation portion with which, on the basis of a predefined correlation, which is stored preferably in the calculation portion itself, between the grain size distribution and/or the degree of grinding of ground coffee, on the one hand, and the mass and the volume or a variable derived from these two variables, in particular the density, of ground coffee, on the other hand, there can be calculated from the determined ground volume and from the determined ground mass, the grain size distribution and/or the degree of grinding of this quantity of coffee powder. |
| US09066620B2 |
Barbeque radiant burner
A radiant burner is disclosed that includes a body configured to form a tray having an open top and a perforated ceramic plate configured to fill the open top of the body and coupled to the body to form an enclosed volume. The radiant burner is configured such that the ceramic plate covers at least 90% of a projected top area of the radiant burner. |
| US09066613B2 |
Thermal barrier liner for containers
A thermal barrier maintains a beverage within a container at a desired temperature. The barrier may include gas or liquid filled microcapsules and a base material having microencapsulated solid-liquid phase change material, or combinations thereof. The thermal barrier may include a cooling element attached to the exterior of the container, the interior of the container, or free-floating within the container. Other embodiments include a container holder incorporating phase change materials to control temperature of the beverages. The holder includes enclosing sidewalls and a plurality of cavities to receive one or more containers. Gaps between the cavities and the enclosing sidewalls are filled with phase change materials, such as microencapsulated phase change materials. Another embodiment provides a double walled pitcher with phase change materials and a base material filling the space between the walls. The phase change material and base material sealed between the walls enable the pitcher to be re-used. |
| US09066612B2 |
Device to contain, display, and dispense documents
A device to contain, display, and dispense documents may be made from translucent plastic material. The device has a generally convex shaped front face and a generally concave shaped back face that serves to create a generally crescent shaped chamber for holding documents. The front and back faces are in a substantially sealed relationship to protect the documents from exposure to harmful moisture. The device is adapted to be stably secured to a holder at the top and bottom portions of the device. |
| US09066611B1 |
Jewelry organizer
A jewelry organizer includes a generally rectangular-shaped body surrounded with a cover and a plurality of securing members attached to the cover at a top surface of the generally rectangular-shaped body. The plurality of securing members are uniformly spaced apart along an entire length of the top surface of the generally rectangular-shaped body. |
| US09066606B1 |
Collapsible high chair with locking legs
A collapsible high chair with locking legs including a collapsible frame, a flexible seat, a tray, and a storage bag. The chair in an extended position is intended to be used for a child while eating. The chair collapses to fit within the storage bag for transportation and storage. The collapsible frame includes four locking mechanisms to lock the legs in place in the extended position. A restraint harness, including a shoulder restraint portion and a leg restraint portion, has a buckle to restrain the child and prevent falls. The tray removably connects by a hook and loop fastener strap on both sides to the frame to provide an eating surface. The tray includes a cup holder. The tray folds in half when removed from the frame for storage. |
| US09066604B2 |
Baby swing and bouncer
A baby swing and bouncer which includes a base to be places on a surface, a seat frame for carrying a seat for seating a child, two support leg disposed between the base frame and the seat frame for supporting the seat frame, and two connecting structure for coupling the seat frame to an upper end of the two support legs, respectively. A lower end of each support leg has a lower straight section rotatably coupled to the base frame, and an upper end of each support leg has an upper straight section rotatably coupled to a corresponding connecting structure. The rotation axes of the lower straight sections and the upper straight sections of the first and second support legs are parallel to each other. The relative rotations of at least one of the lower and upper straight sections of the two support legs are driven by a drive mechanism. |
| US09066586B2 |
Modular enclosure
A modular enclosure that can be used as a stand-alone unit or can be ganged together in a multiple unit configuration. The enclosure system consisting of a base frame and front door with open sides which can accommodate various side covers or attachments all using the same common mounting. The common mounting used to attach the various covers or attachments provides a unique design for attaching and sealing the side covers or attachments while providing a water-tight and dust tight seal between the interior of the enclosure and the exterior of the enclosure. A variety of attachments are available which give the mosular enclosure flexibility to be configured in a wide variety of ways. |
| US09066584B2 |
Weather integrated cane workstation
A portable workstation can be folded so as to be readily portable as a cane, and has a seat portion and a table/tray portion for holding a book, electronic device, or lunch box, among other things. The workstation has a main leg pivotably connected to a pair of legs. An umbrella can be connected to the workstation in the folded condition of the workstation, and can be opened and adjustably positioned in the unfolded condition of the workstation. While outside, a user may need protection from the elements, such as from the sun, rain, sleet, or even snow, and can deploy the umbrella. Additionally, the umbrella can serve to prevent glare from electronic devices by shielding them from direct sunlight. A flashlight assembly can be plugged into the cane handle in a fixed orientation to provide light to the workstation table/tray when turned on. |
| US09066583B2 |
Packaged toothbrush and toothbrush container and methods of making same
The disclosed embodiments relate to a packaged toothbrush and toothbrush container and methods of making them, wherein the toothbrush container includes a flexible pliable resilient lid securable to a flexible pliable resilient body of the toothbrush container. The packaged toothbrush included a flexible resilient pliable toothbrush adapted to be disposed within toothbrush container and can be manipulated into a flexed position. |
| US09066582B2 |
Maintenance device for fasteners
There is provided in a preferred embodiment of the present invention a maintenance device having a central body and a lubricant container attached to the upper end of the central body. At a lower end of the central body, at least one dynamic body is provided and biased by a spring to an extended position relative to the central body. The dynamic member comprises a pair of cleaning arms that are outwardly biased. As a compression force is applied to the dynamic body, the biasing spring is compressed and the dynamic body is moved toward a retracted position relative to the central body. As the dynamic body retracts, the cleaning arms pivot inward and engage the fastener for cleaning. |
| US09066573B2 |
Cosmetic applicator
The present invention generally relates to a cosmetic applicator and in particular, relate to a cosmetic applicator comprising of at least two molded applicator parts that are interlinked such that a non-zero angle is formed at an interface of the at least two molded applicator parts with respect to a centerline of the applicator. The cosmetic applicator of present invention imitates the twirl of the wrist during application and thereby provides a better application. The cosmetic applicator of the present invention may be used for cosmetic and care applications such as mascara application, hair coloring, lip application, etc. |
| US09066572B2 |
Cosmetic applicator
The invention provides a cosmetic applicator which carries a cosmetic preparation in one or more cavities of the cosmetic applicator thereby allowing the cosmetic preparation to be applied to a skin of the user in a wiping action using only the cosmetic preparation carried by the cosmetic applicator. |
| US09066571B2 |
Four-fingered cosmetic glove
The invention relates to a four-fingered cosmetic glove comprising a fiber pile fabric. Multiple work devices of a makeup artist for example can be replaced with the glove, whereby work can be done more effectively. |
| US09066570B2 |
Cosmetics retrieval and applicator tool with non-porous tip apparatus
The present application discloses a cosmetic device for accessing residual liquid and gel like cosmetics in hard to reach containers and applying the cosmetics. Specifically, the device is a stand-alone lip gloss wand with a long flexible stem capable of reaching every spot in a tube of lip gloss and retrieving hard to reach residual lip gloss and a specially designed flame shaped applicator tip for applying both thin and broad strokes of the retrieved lip gloss. Additionally, the device is easily cleaned allowing for use across multiple tubes without cross-contamination. |
| US09066561B2 |
Apparatus and method by means of which an item of footwear is adapted
An apparatus and a method for adapting a prefabricated item of footwear that is formed, at least in part, of hard thermoplastic material, to a user's foot and/or leg. A pressure-exerting element is provided that substantially encloses the item of footwear and that has an accommodating space into which the item of footwear can be placed. The accommodating space is bounded, at least in part, by a deformable material which forms an inner layer of the pressure-exerting element, which contains a cavity and has an inlet opening provided for the introduction of a pressure application fluid. The pressure-exerting element is formed with a portion into which the pressure application fluid cannot enter. |
| US09066560B2 |
Skate shoelace protection structure having a continuous sliding upper interface
A skate shoe is disclosed having a shoe sole, a shoe upper, and a protective cover over the shoe upper shoelaces to prevent premature wear and failure thereof, while offering a smooth sliding interface across the shoe upper for skating activities. The shoelace cover comprises an inner tongue and outer tongue sandwiching the shoelaces therebetween, while the shoe upper terminates above the outer tongue and a lateral strap secures over the assembly. The strap originates from the outside portion of the shoe upper and is secured along the shoe upper interior portion, offering an interface across the strap and the secured outer tongue enclosed within the shoe upper that is adept at sliding along a skateboard griptape without having discontinuities and exposing the shoelaces to contact with the skateboard. The inner and outer tongue pivot from the shoe throat line and secure at their distal ends when in use. |
| US09066556B2 |
Article of footwear having a sole structure with a framework-chamber arrangement
A framework-chamber arrangement for an article of footwear, and an article of footwear having a sole structure including a framework-chamber arrangement, is provided that can cooperate to provide various advantageous features, such as multiple-stage cushioning and specialized attenuation of and reaction to ground contact forces. The framework-chamber arrangement can include a fluid-filled chamber forming laterally extending arms and a framework having corresponding recesses formed therein and receiving a lower portion of the chamber. The fluid-filled chamber can be retained within the framework without a bond being formed between lower regions of the chamber arms and the framework. Peripheral portions of some of the chamber arms can be spaced apart from adjacent portions of corresponding channels while in a relaxed state. |
| US09066555B2 |
Sports shoe with an outer shell of injection moulded plastic
The invention relates to a sports shoe with an outer shell of injection molded plastic, comprising a front foot shell for accommodating the front foot and an adjoining shoe cuff for stabilizing the lower leg portion of a user, and with a relatively flexible inner shoe at least partially accommodated in the shell. Disposed in the outer shell is at least one elastically flexible portion which is provided as a means of reducing pressure points from the inner shoe on a user's foot when subjected to compression stress. The elastically flexible portion is provided in the form of at least one membrane element which is designed to vary the volume or width which the shell can accommodate as a function of compression stress due to its slackness or ability to deflect relative to the surrounding part-portions of the shell. |
| US09066554B2 |
Cleats and footwear for providing customized traction
A removable cleat includes a plurality of projections, dividing into sets, with each set of projections made of different materials. The cleat includes a coupling element, for attachment to a shoe, and a ground contacting element. The ground contacting element contains a plurality of projections, with the projections divided into at least two sets. The projections may be disposed about the perimeter of the ground contacting element, such that each set of projections does not extend more than half the perimeter. Additionally, some of the plurality of projections may be located interior to the perimeter. Further, each set of projections may be oriented in a particular direction with respect to a plane formed by the perimeter. Each interspersed set of projections may be made of a different material, or each projection may itself be made of a different material. |
| US09066551B2 |
Self-adjusting retention system for a helmet
The present invention is directed to a self-adjusting retention system for a helmet including a front head belt, a rear basket and a tensioning means or device for tensioning the front head belt and the rear basket along a wearer's head. The tensioning means includes a spring and a cable attached to the front head belt. The spring tensions the front head belt via the cable. In addition, the present invention is directed to a helmet including a dome and a self-adjusting retention system attached to the dome. |
| US09066548B2 |
Joining stretchable fabric portions to one another
A method of joining first and second stretchable fabric portions to one another in a desired configuration comprises the steps of sewing a first thread through at least one of the first and second fabric portions to define a first stitch formation looping a second thread within the first stitch formation such that the second thread and the first thread overlap one another to create a sewn seam, one of the threads being a fusible thread and the other of the threads being a non-fusible thread; positioning the first and second fabric portions relative to one another in a desired configuration; melting the fusible thread; and forming a plurality of discrete bonding element portions extending along a bonding path. The discrete bonding element portions retain the first and second fabric portions in the desired configuration. |
| US09066545B2 |
Piece of garment
Disclosed is a piece of garment, e.g. in the form of a glove, comprising an outer layer that encloses at least one interior space which is provided with an opening for accommodating a body part such as a hand and is subdivided into at least two adjoining chambers. Each chamber encompasses at least one chamber opening that is arranged in the opening of the interior space and selectively accommodates the body part such as a hand. The material of each chamber can be constructed with at least one layer of protective material which can be provided with an insulating material, a functional layer material, a cut-resistant material, a heat-resistant and/or a flame-proof material, for example. The inventive design allows the user of the glove to selectively put his/her hand into one of the chambers that are provided, according to the desired protective effect, while the unused chamber lies in the interior space in a compressed manner. |
| US09066542B2 |
Filter for a smoking article
A multi-section filter (5) for a smoking article comprises at least a first (5B) and a second filter section (5A). The first filter section (5B) is at a mouth end of the filter (5) and the second filter section includes a set of ventilation holes (17) and a set of grooves (7). The grooves (7) extend from respective ventilation holes (17) along the second filter section (5A) up to but not into the first filter section (5B). |
| US09066540B2 |
Fabric having tobacco entangled with structural fibers
A smokeless tobacco product includes smokeless tobacco and structural fibers. The structural fibers forming a network in which the smokeless tobacco is entangled. The structural fibers have a composition different from the smokeless tobacco. The tobacco-entangled fabric can have an overall oven volatiles content of at least 10 weight percent. In some embodiments, the structural fibers form a nonwoven network. In some embodiments, fibrous structures of the smokeless tobacco are entangled with the structural fibers. |
| US09066539B2 |
Apparatus for producing a flavor for expanded tobacco material
An apparatus for producing a flavor for expanded tobacco material has an extraction vessel (2) for bringing supercritical carbon dioxide into contact with tobacco material (A) to dissolve tobacco components in the carbon dioxide; a separation vessel (14) connected to the extraction vessel (2), for separating fat-soluble ingredients of the tobacco components from the tobacco components dissolved in the carbon dioxide to retrieve the fat-soluble ingredients; and a circulation path for circulating the supercritical carbon dioxide between the extraction vessel (2) and the absorption vessel (38) storing purified water while purifying the carbon dioxide by the purification layer (4) made of activated carbon, and absorbing water-soluble ingredients of the tobacco components in purified water; and a retrieval vessel (52) for retrieving the purified water, in which the water-soluble ingredients of the tobacco components are absorbed, from the absorption vessel (38) as absorption water. The fat-soluble ingredients of the tobacco components and the absorption water are used to produce first and second flavor elements as flavor. |
| US09066536B2 |
Compositions and methods for increasing the suppression of hunger and reducing the digestibility of non-fat energy satiety
The present invention relates to methods for increasing the suppression of hunger and/or increasing the reduction of prospective consumption and/or increasing the reduction of appetite and/or increasing the feeling of satiety and/or reducing non-fat energy uptake in the gastrointestinal tract of a mammal in order to prevent a positive non-fat energy balance, weight gain, overweight and obesity, and to induce a negative non-fat energy balance and weight loss in subjects who wish to reduce their body weight. In particular, feed, food and/or beverages and dietary supplements of the present invention comprises mucilage such as flax seed mucilage and/or one or more active compounds of mucilage useful for increasing the suppression of hunger and/or increasing the reduction of prospective consumption and/or increasing the reduction of appetite and/or increasing the feeling of satiety and/or reducing the digestibility of non-fat energy in the gastrointestinal tract of a mammal. |
| US09066533B2 |
Method for manufacturing jam using fruits of Acanthopanax senticosus
A method for manufacturing jam using Acanthopanax senticosus fruits. Acanthopanax senticosus fruits are mashed, added with sugar, stored in a container, and fermented and ripened. The fermented and ripened Acanthopanax senticosus fruits are heated, added with mineral water, and compressed using a sieve to separate out the seeds and skins, and obtain a flesh extract of the Acanthopanax senticosus. The flesh extract is boiled down while stirring and 5-15 parts of sugar are added. Heat is reduced and salt is added to thoroughly-steam the boiled-down flesh extract. The thoroughly steamed flesh extract is put into a glass jar, boiled in a water bath with the lid of the glass jar tightly sealed, and cooled down to vacuum seal the glass jar. A final ripening process is performed. The jam provides an improved flavor of the Acanthopanax senticosus fruits and helps people to stay healthy due to the useful pharmacological effects of Acanthopanax senticosus fruits. |
| US09066523B2 |
Method and apparatus for directing steam distribution in a steam cooker
The present invention relates to a method and apparatus for directing steam distribution in a steam cooker. In one exemplary embodiment, steam is directed through a steam cooker by a plenum that is in fluid communication with a steam chamber. As steam is generated within the steam chamber, the steam fills the chamber where it is directed to the plenum. In one exemplary embodiment, the plenum is formed to extend vertically along an interior wall of the steam cooker. In one exemplary embodiment, the plenum is defined between an interior wall of the steam cooker and a steam distributor that has a plurality of openings formed therein. The openings in the steam distributor allow for steam rising within the plenum to exit into the cooking chamber by passing through the openings. A pressure switch may be utilized to turn off the steam generator in the steam cooker. |
| US09066522B2 |
Insect and disease control
The invention provides a method for controlling pests or pathogenic organisms in an agricultural structure, the method comprising applying a pesticidal composition to surfaces susceptible to infestation or colonization by the pest or pathogenic organism, wherein the composition includes terpenoids, essential oils, plant extracts, or combinations thereof. |
| US09066520B2 |
Pesticide
Composition for controlling insects and representatives of the order Acarina, which comprises a combination of variable amounts of one or more compounds of the formula in which A is an unsubstituted or, depending on the possibility of substitution on the ring system, mono- to tetrasubstituted, aromatic or non-aromatic monocyclic or bicyclic heterocyclic radical, in which the substituents of A can be chosen from the group consisting of C1-C3alkyl, C1-C3alkoxy, halogen, halo-C1-C3alkyl, cyclopropyl, halocyclopropyl, C2-C3alkenyl, C2-C3alkynyl, halo-C2-C3alkenyl, halo-C2-C3alkynyl, halo-C1-C3alkoxy, C1-C3alkylthio, Halo-C1-C3alkylthio, allyloxy, propargyloxy, allylthio, propargylthio, haloallyloxy, haloallylthio, cyano and nitro; R is hydrogen, C1-C6alkyl, phenyl-C1-C4alkyl, C3-C6cycloalkyl, C2-C6alkenyl or C2-C6alkynyl; and X is N—NO2 or N—CN, in the free form or in salt form, if appropriate tautomers, in the free form or salt form, and one or more of the compounds (I) to (CLXXXIV) mentioned according to the invention and at least one auxiliary. A method of controlling pests, a process for the preparation of the composition, its use and plant propagation material treated with it, and the use of the compound of the formula (A) for the preparation of the composition, are described. |
| US09066510B2 |
Trap with improved rodent retention characteristics
A rodent trap includes a base, a trigger mechanism and a spring activated snap cover. During operation, a rodent touching the trigger mechanism releases the spring activated snap cover which quickly snaps over the trigger mechanism either enclosing and trapping the rodent or snapping onto the rodent and retaining the rodent by snapping onto the rodent and retaining the rodent between the base and the edges of the snap cover. The snap cover includes rounded edges which fit into flange portions on the base and which aid in retaining the rodent in the rodent trap. |
| US09066506B2 |
Tangle free tip top for fishing
In a specific example, the present invention provides a fishing rod apparatus configured with low profile guides and a tip top, which are prone to fewer or almost no line tangles. |
| US09066502B2 |
Hybrid light chain mice
Genetically modified mice are provided that express human λ variable (hVλ) sequences, including mice that express hVλ sequences from an endogenous mouse λ light chain locus, mice that express hVλ sequences from an endogenous mouse κ light chain locus, and mice that express hVλ sequences from a transgene or an episome wherein the hVλ sequence is linked to a mouse constant sequence. Mice are provided that are a source of somatically mutated human λ variable sequences useful for making antigen-binding proteins. Compositions and methods for making antigen-binding proteins that comprise human λ variable sequences, including human antibodies, are provided. |
| US09066501B2 |
Swiftlets farming for production of edible bird's nests
A swiftlet breeding facility, for use in creating and harvesting edible bird's nests. The facility includes sub-systems for injecting live insect and worm prey, and water, into an aerial enclosure to provide a feeding system imitative of a natural swiftlet feeding environment. |
| US09066499B2 |
Adjustable collar
An adjustable collar system including a strap member having first and second ends and a housing assembly configured to slideably receive on the strap member. The housing assembly including a first end portion configured and operable to detachably engage the first end of the strap member and a second end portion configured and operable to adjustable affix to a portion of the strap member in proximity to the second end of the strap member. |
| US09066490B2 |
Soybean variety A1035302
The invention relates to the soybean variety designated A1035302. Provided by the invention are the seeds, plants and derivatives of the soybean variety A1035302. Also provided by the invention are tissue cultures of the soybean variety A1035302 and the plants regenerated therefrom. Still further provided by the invention are methods for producing soybean plants by crossing the soybean variety A1035302 with itself or another soybean variety and plants produced by such methods. |
| US09066487B2 |
Plants and seeds of canola variety SCV366592
In an embodiment, the invention relates to the seeds, plants, and plant parts of canola variety SCV366592 and to methods for producing a canola plant produced by crossing canola variety SCV366592 with itself or with another canola variety. The invention also relates to methods for producing a canola plant containing in its genetic material one or more transgenes and to the transgenic canola plants and plant parts produced by those methods. This invention also relates to canola varieties or breeding lines and plant parts derived from canola variety SCV366592, to methods for producing other canola varieties, lines or plant parts derived from canola variety SCV366592 and to the canola plants, varieties, and their parts derived from use of those methods. The invention further relates to hybrid canola seeds, plants and plant parts produced by crossing the variety SCV366592 with another canola variety. |
| US09066481B2 |
Tomato hybrid HNX12860544
The invention provides seed and plants of tomato hybrid HNX12860544 and the parent lines thereof. The invention thus relates to the plants, seeds and tissue cultures of tomato hybrid HNX12860544 and the parent lines thereof, and to methods for producing a tomato plant produced by crossing such plants with themselves or with another tomato plant, such as a plant of another genotype. The invention further relates to seeds and plants produced by such crossing. The invention further relates to parts of such plants, including the fruit and gametes of such plants. |
| US09066474B2 |
Method for the cultivation of a plurality of young plants which differ in terms of species or variety to form a group of young plants which can be handled as a unit
A method for cultivating a plurality of young plants of different species or variety to form a group of young plants which can be handled as a unit. The method includes providing a plurality of propagation pots, each containing a substrate, which allow roots that form in a propagation pot to grow out at the sides, loading at least one growing container with the plurality of propagation pots such that the propagation pots arranged in each growing container contact one another along a portion of their lateral peripheral surface, introducing at least one cutting or seed into each propagation pot, and allowing roots to form in the propagation pots of each growing container until roots emerging from the sides of the propagation pots have formed a network of roots binding the propagation pots together as a cluster of propagation pots. |
| US09066470B2 |
System and method for controlling spreader output from a harvester
A harvester including, a spreader system configured to distribute an agricultural material onto a field, wherein the spreader system is configured to receive the agricultural material from a chopper, wherein the spreader system comprises a first panel or vane positioned on a first lateral side of the spreader system, and a second panel or vane positioned on a second lateral side of the spreader system, opposite the first lateral side, and wherein the spreader system is configured to detect a first force applied to the first panel or vane and a second force applied to the second panel or vane, and to adjust a position of the spreader system with respect to the chopper based on the first force, the second force, or a combination thereof. |
| US09066469B2 |
Riding lawn mower
A riding lawn mower includes: a delivery passage for delivering cut grass from a housing to a receptacle; and a shutter mechanism provided on a lower portion of the delivery passage for switching the mower between a bagging mode in which cut grass is delivered from the housing to the receptacle and a mulching mode in which cut grass is discharged downward of the housing. The shutter mechanism includes a horizontal pivot shaft disposed on the lower portion of the delivery passage, and a shutter plate pivotable about the pivot shaft between a fully closed position where the shutter plate closes the delivery passage to place the mower in the mulching mode and a fully opened position where the shutter plate is laid down toward a discharge side of the delivery passage to place the mower in the bagging mode. |
| US09066468B2 |
Foot platform for standing lawn mower
A pivotable operator support platform is provided for a standing lawn mower. The pivotable operator support platform is part of a platform assembly. A deck lift foot lever is actuable by the foot of an operator on the support platform to raise the cutting deck of the lawn mower. The deck lift foot lever is pivotable with the operator support platform, and about the same pivot axis, between an operating position and a stored position. A latching assembly automatically deflects as the operator support platform is moved into the stored position, and is biased to engage a latch pin to retain the operator support platform in the stored position. |
| US09066465B2 |
Soil compaction reduction system and method
A soil compaction reduction system and method determine a path through the field for a mobile machine or control a soil compaction characteristic of the mobile machine based upon a varying soil compaction characteristic of the mobile machine as the mobile machine traverses the field and based upon a soil compaction constraint. |
| US09066464B2 |
Moving geofence for machine tracking in agriculture
An agricultural vehicle tracking system provides a moving geofence about the location of a vehicle. When the moving geofence contacts a point of interest, such as another moving geofence, an alert is issued. The particular characteristics of the moving geofence may be generated in accordance with a predetermined scheme. |
| US09072207B2 |
Suspension board with circuit, producing method thereof, and positioning method of suspension board with circuit
A suspension board with circuit includes a metal supporting board, a conductive layer laminated on the metal supporting board, and a via layer interposed between the metal supporting board and the conductive layer. The conductive layer includes a conductive pattern, and a reference portion serving as a positioning reference for placing the suspension board with circuit on a load beam. |
| US09072205B1 |
Surface mounting method utilizing active resin composition
A surface mounting method includes applying an active resin composition to at least part of a surface of a printed wiring substrate; mounting a surface mount device on the substrate; performing reflow soldering; applying an under-filling resin into a space of interest; before and/or after applying the under-filling resin, performing a vacuum treatment and/or heating at a temperature lower than the curing reaction-initiating temperature of any of the applied active resin composition and the under-filling resin; and subsequently, thermally curing the resin composition and the under-filling resin. The active resin composition contains an epoxy resin in an amount of 100 parts by weight, a blocked carboxylic acid compound in an amount of 1-50 parts by weight and/or a carboxylic acid compound in an amount of 1-10 parts by weight, and a curing agent which can initiate curing reaction at 150° C. or higher, in an amount of 1-30 parts by weight. |
| US09072192B2 |
Composite flexible circuit planar cable
A composite flexible circuit planar cable includes a flat cable, a first section, and a second section. The flat cable includes a plurality of straight line like parallel and non-jumping conductor lines. At least one jumping line is formed on the first section to interchangeably connect a selected conductive line of the first section to an another selected conductive line. The second section may also form at least one jumping line to interchangeably connect a selected conductive line of the second section to an another selected conductive line. Through such a jumping line, electrical connection can be formed between signal terminals and corresponding and interchanged signal terminals. The plurality of conductor lines of the flat cable includes at least a pair of differential signal conductor lines, a grounding line, and a power line. |
| US09072186B2 |
Harness assembly
An assembly for physically securing, and providing data and power to, a portable electronic consumer product that has opposed sides that each include one or more protrusions or depressions, where the portable electronic consumer product also has an electrical power input connector and a data input connector. The assembly has first and second separate housing portions that are constructed and arranged to be separably coupled together to thereby define a housing. The first and second housing portions each define one or more protrusions or depressions that complement the depressions or protrusions on a side of the portable electronic consumer product such that the housing forms a tight locational clearance fit with the consumer product when the first and second housing portions are coupled together around the opposed sides of the consumer product. There is a cord assembly that is constructed and arranged to carry electrical power and data, the cord assembly located in part inside the housing. There is a housing power connector that terminates the power carried by the cord assembly, and a housing data connector that terminates the data carried by the cord assembly; these connectors are both carried by the housing. |
| US09072184B2 |
Carbon fiber spacecraft panel with integral metallic foil power return
An aerospace structure that includes a composite member and a conductive element attached to the composite member wherein the conductive element is configured to conduct electricity across at least a portion of the composite member is provided. The aerospace structure may also include a power distribution system and the conductive element is a part of the power distribution system for the aerospace structure. |
| US09072179B2 |
Display device
A display device includes a body, a support, and a first elastic unit. The support is rotatably disposed on a back side of the body and has a first slip stopper. The first elastic unit is pivotally connected to the body and the support. The display device is supported on the a working surface by a bottom of the body and the first slip stopper. The first elastic unit generates an elastic force to pull the support toward the body when the first slip stopper moves away from the working surface. |
| US09072174B2 |
Electronic device
An electronic device includes a first body and a second body. The first body includes a first main body and a first magnetic element fixed in the first main body. The second body includes a second main body, a supporting unit, a second magnetic element, and a third magnetic element. The second main body is adapted to hold the first body. The supporting unit is pivoted to the second main body. The second magnetic element is fixed in the second main body. The third magnetic element is slidably configured in the second main body to restrict a rotation of the supporting unit relative to the second main body. When the first body leans against the second main body, the third magnetic element is subject to a magnetic attraction force from the first magnetic element and escapes from the supporting unit, so that the supporting unit supports the first body. |
| US09072171B2 |
Circuit board mount for LED light
An LED-based light for replacing a conventional fluorescent light in an existing fixture is disclosed. The LED-based light includes an elongated housing, a heat sink extending substantially the length of the housing and having at least one integral retaining portion and a circuit board positioned on the heat sink and having a plurality of LEDs mounted thereon, wherein the at least one integral retaining portion is configured to secure the circuit board to the heat sink. |
| US09072168B2 |
Electromagnetic interference blocking device and circuit assembly including the same
An electromagnetic interference blocking device is provided for blocking electromagnetic interference between transmission lines formed on a surface of a circuit board. The electromagnetic interference blocking device includes a body configured to be inserted into a slot formed in the surface of the circuit board between the transmission lines, the body including a bottom portion having a comb shape insertable within the slot. |
| US09072166B2 |
Field serviceable electronic display
An in-field replaceable glass assembly for an electronic display placed within a housing is disclosed. The housing preferably contains a hanger at the top of the housing, where the glass assembly contains a frame surrounding a pane of glass and having a top and bottom. A tab is preferably placed at the top of the frame and adapted to hold the glass assembly in place when slipped over the hanger on the housing. The glass assembly also contains a means for attaching the bottom of the frame to the housing. In some embodiments this means is a threaded post which extends from the frame and passing through a portion of the housing. A nut may be tightened against the post. In other embodiments a threaded fastener may pass through the housing and thread into a female threaded hole within the frame. |
| US09072164B2 |
Process for fabricating a three dimensional molded feed structure
A process for fabricating a three dimensional molded feed structure is provided. In one embodiment, the invention relates to a process for fabricating a three dimensional radio frequency (RF) antenna structure, the process including providing a flexible circuit substrate, forming a first preselected pattern of channels in the flexible circuit substrate, depositing a conductive layer on the formed flexible substrate, and removing portions of the conductive layer to form a plurality of conductive traces. |
| US09072163B2 |
Housing assembly for portable electronic device
A housing assembly for a portable electronic device includes a first body, a second body, a first engaging member, a first resilient member and a first housing. The first body has a first space. The second body is installed to the first body and has a first release hole. The first engaging member is movably located in the first space. The first engaging member has at least one first engaging portion. The first resilient member provides a force to the first engaging member to orient the first engaging member toward the first release hole. The first housing is connected to the second body and has at least one first contact portion. When assembling, the first contact portion contacts the first engaging portion. The force of the first resilient member applied to the first engaging member to firmly connect the first housing to the second body. |
| US09072162B2 |
Conductive plastic overmold on shielded plastic window
An integrated assembly is provided for installation on a housing for electronic components. The integrated assembly includes a shielded window and a bezel overmolded onto the shielded window in an injection molding process. Since both the shielded window and the bezel have EMI resistant properties, the assembly represents an efficient method for providing high quality EMI shielding while eliminating the use of costly parts and assembly procedures. |
| US09072160B2 |
Electronic device and dock
The present disclosure provides an electronic device and a dock. The electronic device includes a first body, an insertion connector for connecting the first body, a second body connected to the insertion connector and physically connected/disconnected to/from the first body via the insertion connector by inserting the first body into the insertion connector or pulling the first body out of the insertion connector, a lock means having a locked state and an unlocked state, wherein the first body is securely connected to the insertion connector and cannot be physically pulled out of and disconnected from the insertion connector when the lock means is in the locked state and the first body is insecurely connected to the insertion connecter and can be physically pulled out of and disconnected from the insertion connector when the lock means is in the unlocked state, and a rotation means physically connected to the lock means. |
| US09072157B2 |
Device for providing a flow of active gas
A device 10, typically hand-held, provides a flow of partially ionized gaseous plasma for treatment of a treatment region. The device comprises an applicator head 52 housing a miniature plasma cell 16 in which gas flowing through the cell from a gas source 22 can be energized to form a non-thermal gaseous plasma, and a plurality of electrodes 26, 28 for receiving electrical energy from a source of electrical energy for energizing gas in a plasma forming region 18 in the cell to form said plasma. The applicator head 52 is detachable from the device and may be of a size and configuration to enable it to be inserted into the oral cavity of a human or animal. |
| US09072155B2 |
Transformer network
A transformer network circuit utilizing multiple smaller transformer cores, instead of a single, relatively larger core, for transferring electrical power while maintaining a smaller overall core mass. |
| US09072135B2 |
Systems and methods for modular and configurable driver system for LED lighting devices
A modular LED power supply is provided. The modular LED power supply includes a docking module having a plurality of grooves for receiving a plurality of power supply driver modules. The plurality of power supply driver modules are modular in nature and are attached to the plurality of grooves in the docking module based on the power requirements, Also, the modular LED power supply includes a supervisory module for analyzing and controlling the number of power supply driver modules required to be attached to the docking module. |
| US09072134B2 |
Configurable lighting devices under broadcast control
A control unit for controlling an illumination parameter of one or more light sources of a plurality of light sources is described. The control unit being arranged to —select the one or more light sources of the plurality of light sources, receive an input signal representing a required value of the illumination parameter for the selected one or more light sources, convert the input signal to a broadcast signal for the plurality of light sources; —enable the broadcast signal to be provided to the plurality of light sources thereby enabling the selected one or more light sources to comply with the required value of the illumination parameter. |
| US09072128B2 |
Light-emitting diode driving circuits and driving methods thereof
A driving circuit includes a first PWM driving module and a second PWM driving module. The first PWM driving module generates a first square-wave signal to drive a first illumination unit according to a first data signal of a data stream, wherein the first square-wave represents an illumination period of the first illumination unit in a display cycle. The second PWM driving module generates a second square-wave signal to drive the second illumination unit according to a second data signal of the data stream, wherein the second square-wave signal, which has a different phase with the first square-wave signal, represents an illumination period of the second illumination unit in the display cycle. |
| US09072123B2 |
Heated set, in particular for seats of benches
Areal shapeable heating element (2) covered by electro-insulation foil (3), with metal heat-conductive layer (4) placed above whereof, is placed on the seating part of the bench (1). The set is covered from the top and side of the bench (1) by carpet decorative layer (5). |
| US09072122B2 |
Heating apparatus for heating a toner image and image forming apparatus including the same
A non-contact power supply unit including a secondary coil supplies an alternating voltage to multiple heat generation layers provided in a heat generation film. In one of the heat generation layers, a loop is provided as a variable impedance circuit in which the impedance changes according to the frequency. A capacitance element in which the impedance changes according to the frequency is provided in the loop. The heat generation amounts of the heat generation layers are switched by changing the frequency of the alternating voltage generated in the secondary coil according to the size of the recording material that is the heating target. |
| US09072120B2 |
Methods circuits and systems for providing cellular base station functionality at one or more nodes of a data network
Disclosed are methods, circuits and systems for providing cellular base station functionality at one or more nodes of a data network. Baseband traffic and at least a portion of radio unit signaling may be transmitted over a data network from a base station (controller) to a radio equipped network appliance. The network appliance may emulate a native radio unit of the base station controller and may provide cellular base station services to one or more cellular devices. Baseband traffic and at least a portion of the radio unit signaling received from the one or more cellular devices may be transmitted from the network appliance to the base station controller over the data network. |
| US09072119B2 |
Mobile communication device and integrated circuit thereof
Mobile communication devices and integrated circuits thereof are provided. The mobile communication device, communicating with a packet switched network and a second network, includes a transceiver, a first PLL circuit and a controller. When exchanging an ongoing data transmission with the packet switched network, the transceiver transmits a first message to the packet switched network, which indicates the mobile communication device will be tuned away from the packet switched network, and performs a subsequent procedure for the second network. The first PLL circuit provides a first clock to the transceiver. When the ongoing data transmission with the packet switched network is not completed, the controller controls the first PLL circuit to switch the first clock from a first clock frequency to a second clock frequency after the transceiver transmits the first indication message. |
| US09072115B2 |
MAC architecture in wireless communication systems supporting H-ARQ
A medium access control-high speed (MAC-hs) comprises a hybrid automatic repeat request (H-ARQ) device configured to receive data blocks over a wideband-code division multiple access (W-CDMA) high speed-downlink shared channel (HS-DSCH). The H-ARQ device generates an acknowledgement (ACK) or negative acknowledgement (NACK) for each said data block received. Each received data block having a transmission sequence number. The H-ARQ device receives a new transmission instead of a pending retransmission at any time. At least one reordering device has an input configured to receive an output of the H-ARQ device and the at least one reordering device configured to reorder the received data blocks based on each received data block's transmission sequence number (TSN). Received data blocks are immediately forwarded for processing for higher layers when the received data blocks are received in sequence. |
| US09072112B2 |
Medium access control for wireless networks
A wireless network includes a source node, a destination node, and at least a first relay node. The network is arranged to determine a first measure of signal quality for a direct link between the source node and the destination node, and a second measure of signal quality for a link between the source node and the destination node via at least one relay node. At a relay node, the duration of a recruitment slot is determined, within which the relay node may transmit a recruitment message indicating availability of the relay node to relay. The recruitment slot duration is determined on the basis of the first measure of signal quality. In this way, the recruitment of a relay may depend on the signal quality of the direct link from the source node to the destination node. |
| US09072111B2 |
Transmission station, receiving station, wireless communication system, and wireless communication method
A transmission station includes a communication section configured to perform transmission and reception of data with a receiving station by using a plurality of wireless carriers whose frequency bands differ from one another, and a processor configured to obtain reception qualities of a plurality of wireless carriers which are reported from the receiving station, and configured to assign a gap for each of the wireless carriers, in accordance with the obtained reception quality of the each of the wireless carriers, the gap being a period over which transmission of the data is stopped. |
| US09072110B2 |
Method for UE pattern indication and measurement for interference coordination
A method of inter-cell interference coordination is provided for UE measurements and network access procedure. In a first embodiment, a UE in idle mode performs measurements on received radio signals applying a simplified radio resource restriction for interference coordination. The UE determines the restricted radio resource without receiving explicit measurement configuration. In a second embodiment, during various phases of a network access procedure, the UE indicates its interference status and/or additional interference information to its serving base station to enhance interference coordination. In a third embodiment, the UE in connected mode performs measurements on both interference-protected transmission resources and non-interference-protected transmission resources. The UE measurement results are used for scheduling, radio link monitoring, and/or mobility management to increase radio spectrum efficiency and to improve user experience. |
| US09072100B2 |
Sub-slotting to improve packet success rate in carrier sense multiple access networks
In one embodiment, a communication device in a frequency hopping communication network determines an intention to forward a first packet in a particular timeslot of a frequency hopping sequence. As such, the device scans in receive mode for an initial portion of the particular timeslot on a particular frequency known to neighbors of the communication device for reaching the communication device. In response to determining that the communication device is receiving a second packet during the initial portion, the device remains in receive mode to receive a remainder of the second packet. Conversely, in response to not receiving the second packet during the initial portion, the device proceeds to transmit the first packet during a remainder of the particular timeslot. |
| US09072095B2 |
Apparatus and method for allocating resources in a single carrier-frequency division multiple access system
An apparatus and method for allocating resources in an Single Carrier-Frequency Division Multiple Access (SC-FDMA) communication system are provided, in which a Node B determines on a cell basis whether to turn or off inter-subband hopping and whether to turn on or off mirroring for a resource unit for the UE on a frequency axis along which at least two subbands are defined, at set hopping times, selects a resource unit by selectively performing inter-subband hopping and mirroring on the resource unit for the UE according to the determination, and allocates the selected resource unit to the UE. |
| US09072084B2 |
Method and apparatus for control of enhanced dedicated channel transmissions
A method and apparatus for controlling enhanced dedicated channel (E-DCH) transmissions are disclosed. A plurality of primary absolute grants are received, wherein the plurality of primary absolute grants are associated with a TTI. At least one relative grant is received for E-DCH transmission, wherein the at least one relative grant is associated with the TTI. At least one serving grant for E-DCH transmission is determined. A H-ARQ process is identified for use for the TTI. It is determined whether the identified H-ARQ process is available for scheduled data and whether scheduled data is allowed to be transmitted in the TTI based at least on the identified H-ARQ process. On a condition that the identified H-ARQ process is available for scheduled data and scheduled data is allowed to be transmitted in the TTI, scheduled data is allocated for transmission in the TTI. |
| US09072076B2 |
Method for fast acknowledgement and identification of a service access request message or a preamble thereof
A method is provided in a base station for handling a request from a first user equipment for accessing a service in a radio communications network. The method comprises the steps of receiving a first time interval of an incoming signal comprises a first signal sent from the first user equipment and a second signal sent from the second user equipment, interpreting the first signal as being a possible service access request message preamble, and sending an acknowledgement, that the preamble is detected, to the first user equipment. The method comprises the further steps of delaying the first time interval of the incoming signal, identifying the second signal in the first time interval of the incoming signal during the delay, washing the identified second signal away from the first time interval of the incoming signal during the delay, and deciding whether the possible preamble is a real preamble or not, by analyzing the washed incoming signal. |
| US09072074B1 |
Method and apparatus for determining the location of a terminal adaptor
A method and apparatus for updating location information of a customer via a terminal adaptor that is used to access network services are disclosed. For example, the method receives a request from a customer for accessing at least one network service. The method then detects a change in an Internet Protocol (IP) address associated with the customer in the request. In response, the method requests the customer to provide input relating to location information of the customer. |
| US09072073B2 |
Adjusting channel access parameters due to traffic load
An apparatus (STA) receives from a first node (AP1) at least one channel access related parameter and a first congestion indication; and receives from a second node (AP2) a second congestion indication. The apparatus determines a combined congestion indication which is based at least on the first congestion indication and the second congestion indication; and determines a first channel access parameter for a channel between the apparatus and the first node based at least partly on the at least one channel access related parameter and the combined congestion indication. In specific embodiments, the channel access related parameters may be an initial EDCA parameter and a degradation factor. |
| US09072069B2 |
Method and apparatus for user equipment interaction with a network using interaction information
A method for receiving information on Tracking Areas (TAs) by a User Equipment (UE) in a communication network is provided. The method includes transmitting to a Mobility Management Entity (MME), an ATTACH REQUEST message in a deregistered state; and receiving, from the MME, an ATTACH ACCEPT message including at least two different types of Tracking Area Identify (TAI) lists that identify TAs. The at least two different types of TAI lists are concatenated in the ATTACH ACCEPT message and each of the at least two different types of TAI lists is variable within a maximum size. |
| US09072068B2 |
Group call method, device and terminal
The present invention discloses a group call method, device and terminal, belonging to the field of communications technologies. The method includes: calculating, according to the load of a RAN device, the number of subgroups in a group maintained by the RAN device; and send a paging message carrying relevant information of the number of the subgroups, so that a terminal receiving the paging message determines, according to relevant information of the number of the subgroups, whether to respond to the paging message. The device is a RAN device or a CN device. The terminal includes a receiving module and a processing module. In the present invention, the number of paging groups and an in-group terminal being paged are determined dynamically without requiring a core network to maintain subgroup information, thereby greatly saving subgroup maintaining resources as well as signaling and processing resources. |
| US09072064B2 |
Method for performing power headroom reporting procedure and PHR MAC control element
This invention relates to a method for performing Power Headroom reporting procedure, adapted for a user equipment, wherein the user equipment is operated in a plurality of activated serving cells, the method includes the steps of: providing a prohibitPHR-Timer; obtaining a plurality of downlink path loss values respectively corresponding to the activated serving cells; triggering a power headroom report when the prohibitPHR-Timer expires or has expired and at least one of the downlink path loss values has changed more than a PathlossChange threshold since the last transmission of a PHR; and reporting the power headroom report. |
| US09072058B2 |
Method and apparatus for power optimization in wireless systems with large antenna arrays
A method and apparatus for communication between a wireless base station and a population of one or more terminals are provided, involving, in each of a plurality of iterations, transmitting a block of forward-link data from an array of multiple base station antennas to the terminal population. In each iteration, a forward-link power level is updated for each said terminal using a distributed algorithm and purely local information. Meanwhile, a set of beamforming coefficients based on channel state information (CSI) obtained from reverse-link pilot signals is periodically updated, and each data block is precoded with the most recently updated beamforming coefficients. Each data block is transmitted at the most recently updated forward-link power levels. |
| US09072056B2 |
Mobile station apparatus, base station apparatus, radio communication method and integrated circuit
Transmission power of a plurality of uplink carrier components used for radio communication by a mobile station device and a base station device is efficiently controlled. The mobile station device communicates by radio with the base station device using a plurality of component carriers. The mobile station device receives, from the base station device, downlink control information that includes information indicating radio resource assignment to a downlink shared channel disposed in any of downlink component carriers, and a TPC command to an uplink control channel in an uplink component carrier in which ACK/NACK to the downlink shared channel is transmitted. |
| US09072054B2 |
Downlink power control method and apparatus of OFDM system
A downlink power control method and apparatus for improving downlink power efficiency gain in an Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiplexing (OFDM) system is provided. The downlink power control method includes transmitting a downlink data channel at a normal subframe according to first downlink power information for the normal subframe, and transmitting the downlink data channel at an Almost Blank Subframe (ABS) according to second downlink power information for the ABS, wherein the first downlink power information for the normal subframe and the second downlink power information for the ABS differ from each other. The downlink power control method and apparatus is capable of regulating inter-cell interference variation between contiguous symbols at a predetermined level in a subframe at a terminal of a neighbor cell and making it possible to schedule the UE receiving the low power data channel using the power ratio of the feedbacks from the UE. |
| US09072050B2 |
Power saving with adaptive inactivity time out
Power saving for wireless communication devices by adjusting the amount of time, after a last transmission/reception of data, that the device remains in an awake mode listening for more data before the device enters a sleep mode. This time period may be referred to as inactivity time interval or inactivity timeout (ITO). The described features may be employed to improve power savings by taking metrics of channel congestion into account for determining the ITO. The appropriate ITO may be determined to be commensurate with ongoing transmission and/or reception activity. Because error may occur in estimating channel congestion and/or transmission/reception activity, latency bounds based on estimation errors may be managed by classifying the operational mode into multiple regions and employing techniques for mitigating error in congestion estimation based at least in part on the operational mode. |
| US09072049B2 |
Receiver state estimation in a duty cycled radio
A method for receiver state estimation includes communicating, from a first communications device to a second communications device, a first plurality of wake-up frames; receiving, at the first communications device from the second communications device, an indication of a received wake-up frame of the communicated first plurality of wake-up frames; determining, by the first communications device, a time at which the second communications device is in a ready state based on the received indication; subsequently communicating, from the first communications device to the second communications device, a second plurality of wake-up frames. The first plurality is greater than the second plurality, the reduction in number from the first plurality to the second plurality being based on the determined time at which the second communications device is in a ready state. |
| US09072045B2 |
Smart searching of wireless devices using device location information
Particular embodiments described herein provide for an apparatus, such as a wireless electronic device, that includes a memory element configured to store electronic code, a processor operable to execute instructions associated with the electronic code, and at least one module. The at least one module is configured to receive first location information identifying a first location associated with an electronic device. The at least one module is further configured to receive first connection location information indicative of a second location of the electronic device at a time of connection with a first wireless device. The at least one module is further configured to evaluate for a presence of the first wireless device when the first location is within a predetermined distance of the second location. |
| US09072035B2 |
Method and system for task mapping based on corresponding virtual modem identifiers in an operating system for virtual modems within a multi-SIM multi-standby communication device
A multiple-subscriber identity module (multi-SIM) multi-standby communication device includes a single operating system (OS) and a single radio resource unit that is shared by multiple virtual modems (VMs) within a virtual modem framework (VMF). The OS maps VM tasks of the multiple VM to OS resource spaces according to corresponding VM IDs. which may be embedded in global variables utilized in the single OS to access OS resources. The single OS may run the mapped VM tasks utilizing OS resources in the OS resource spaces. The OS may run VM tasks utilizing OS resources in OS resource spaces identified by corresponding VM IDs. |
| US09072034B2 |
Methods and apparatus for selecting a base station transceiver system based on service communication type
Techniques for use in selecting a base station transceiver system for communication with a mobile station are described. The mobile station is connected to a first base station transceiver system, and scans to identify a second base station transceiver system for communication. The mobile station further identifies that the second base station transceiver system provides a predetermined communication service, and that the first base station transceiver system fails to provide the predetermined communication service. In response to identifying, the mobile station causes the second base station transceiver system to be selected for communication over the first base station transceiver system even if the signal quality of the second base station transceiver system is worse than that of the first base station transceiver system. Identifying whether the first and second base station transceiver system provide the predetermined communication service is based on parameters transmitted from the first and second base station transceiver systems. |
| US09072031B2 |
Method and apparatus for supporting multiple frequency assignment in wireless communication system
A method and an apparatus for supporting multiple frequency assignments in a wireless communication system are provided. An operating method of a Mobile Station (MS) for supporting multicarrier transmission in a wireless communication system includes negotiating a multicarrier operation with a Base Station (BS) during a network entry procedure, when supporting a multicarrier operation mode with the BS, sending a first control message comprising information of every multicarrier configuration supported by the MS, to the BS, receiving a second control message comprising index information of one or more carriers assigned for the multicarrier operation from the BS, and searching for configuration information of carriers corresponding to indexes of the one or more carriers assigned from the BS for the multicarrier operation. |
| US09072029B2 |
Mobile communication system, control device, base station device, system control method and device control method
A mobile communication system includes a control device and a base station device. Data communication between the control device and the base station device is conducted using a fixed-length data size and a variable-length data size. The control device transmits information indicating whether a data size of the data communication has a fixed length or a variable length. The base station device receives the information from the control device. |
| US09072025B2 |
Method of measurement reporting and related communication device
A method of measurement reporting for a mobile device in a wireless communication system is disclosed. The method comprises the steps of including a first indicator associated with a first cell in a measurement report and sending the measurement report to a network entity of the wireless communication system. The first indicator informs the network entity about accessibility information of the first cell corresponding to the mobile device. |
| US09072022B1 |
Dynamic report of reference signal received quality by a wireless communication device
A wireless communication device comprises a wireless communication transceiver and a processing system. The wireless communication transceiver is configured to measure reference signal received power (RSRP) values and reference signal received quality (RSRQ) values of a plurality of candidate sectors. The processing system is configured to determine a greatest relative difference between the RSRP values of the candidate sectors. If the greatest relative difference between the RSRP values of the candidate sectors falls below a power threshold, the processing system is configured to direct the wireless communication transceiver to transfer the RSRP values of the candidate sectors and one of the RSRQ values associated with a strongest candidate sector that has a greatest RSRP value of the candidate sectors, and if the greatest relative difference between the RSRP values of the candidate sectors exceeds the power threshold, the RSRP values of the candidate sectors are transferred. |
| US09072021B2 |
Method and apparatus for hybrid automatic repeat request operation in a heterogeneous network architecture
Methods, systems and apparatus are provided for camping, assisted serving cell addition or removal, and discontinuous reception (DRX) in networks having a macro cell and at least one assisted serving cell. In other aspects, enhancements to Layer 1 channels and uplink timing alignments are provided in networks having a macro cell and at least one assisted serving cell. In further aspects, assisted serving cell Layer 2 architecture and transport channels are provided in networks having a macro cell and at least one assisted serving cell. In further aspects, collaborated HARQ solutions are provided in networks having a macro cell and at least one assisted serving cell. |
| US09072020B2 |
Methods and apparatus to support coordinated interference mitigation in multi-tier networks
For use in a wireless network, a femtocell base station in communication with at least one first mobile station is provided. The femtocell base station is configured adjust a resource of the femtocell base station to mitigate interference at a second mobile station. In certain embodiments, the femtocell base station is configured to coordinate a handover of the at least one first mobile station from the femtocell base station to a neighboring base station. In certain embodiments, the femtocell base station is configured to transmit a message regarding the resource adjustment to the at least one first mobile station. |
| US09072013B2 |
Method, apparatus, and system for processing message
Embodiments of the present invention disclose a method, an apparatus, and a system for processing a message. The present invention relates to the field of wireless communications, and can increase the connection reestablishment success rate in a wireless communication system using an RN. The method for processing a message includes: receiving a handover request message A from an SeNB; parsing the handover request message A to obtain identity information of a reestablished cell controlled by an RN and user equipment context information prepared for the reestablished cell; and sending a first message to the RN according to the identity information of the reestablished cell, where the first message includes the user equipment context information prepared for the reestablished cell, where the user equipment context information provides a basis for the RN to prepare a connection. The present invention is mainly applicable to handover and reestablishment in a wireless communication system. |
| US09072011B2 |
Communication system, network handover processing method and apparatus
A communication system, a network handover processing method and a network handover processing apparatus are disclosed. The method includes receiving, by a target evolution NodeB (T-eNB), identity information sent from a user equipment (UE), the identity information being allocated to the UE by a source evolution NodeB (S-eNB); and sending, by the T-eNB, parameters to the UE if identity information, matching the received identity information sent from the UE, is available in the T-eNB, wherein the parameters are allocated to the UE. The apparatus includes a receiving module and a sending module. |
| US09072009B1 |
Carrier selection based on probable mobility of packet flow
Methods and systems are provided for carrier selection based on probable mobility of packet flow. A request is received from an access terminal. The request comprises a packet-flow-type indication, and indicates that the access terminal is requesting a packet flow. If the packet-flow-type indication is associated with a high degree of mobility, the first access terminal is instructed to conduct the packet flow on one of a first set of one or more carriers. If the packet-flow-type indication is associated with a low degree of mobility, the access terminal is instructed to conduct the packet flow on one of a second set of one or more carriers. No carriers are elements of both the first set and the second set. |
| US09072008B2 |
Method and apparatus for controlling the power of terminal in a mobile communication system comprising a femtocell and a macro base station
The present invention relates to a method for allocating a radio resource of a base station for controlling the power of a terminal in a mobile communication system including a plurality of femtocells in the service coverage of a macro base station, said method comprising: a radio resource-grouping step of dividing the radio resources shared by the macro base station and the femtocells into groups in accordance with a preset criterion; a radio resource-allocating step of randomly allocating each of the grouped radio resources to base stations such that the terminal uses maximum transmitting power in different resource areas for the plurality of base stations; and a transmitting step of transmitting the allocated radio resource information to the terminal. The method of the present invention effectively controls interferences between the terminal in communication with the macro base station and the terminal in communication with the femtocell. |
| US09072006B2 |
Mobile communication method and system
In the method for wireless communication between a terminal and a base station supporting a real time packet transfer service mode and reliable packet transfer service mode according to the present invention, one of the real time packet transfer service mode and reliable packet transfer service mode is selected and a communication channel between the terminal and the base station is established, and the packet data are bidirectionally exchanged between the terminal and the base station over the communication channel in real time. |
| US09072004B2 |
Apparatus and method of discarding logged measurement in wireless communication system
A method of discarding logged measurements in a wireless communication system is provided. A user equipment in a Radio Resource Control (RRC) connected mode receives a Minimization of Drive Tests (MDT) configuration from a base station and starts a validity timer upon receiving the MDT configuration. The user equipment in an RRC idle mode logs measurements based on the MDT configuration to collect logged measurements while the validity timer is running. When the validity timer is expired, the user equipment discards the MDT configuration and starts a conservation timer. When the conservation timer is expired, the logged measurements are discarded. |
| US09071997B2 |
Methods and systems for adaptive channel estimation/prediction filter design
A method to adapt a set of multi-point channel estimation filters for use in wireless communications including measuring a plurality of reception values is provided. Each reception value included in the plurality of reception values is associated with one of the network nodes. The method includes sorting the plurality of reception values according to magnitude and determining a select reception value. The method includes selecting a particular network node from the set of network nodes based on the reception value. The reception value is within a threshold from the select reception value. The method includes adjusting the length of a multi-point channel estimation filter associated with the particular network node. The adjusting the length is based on a lookup table and on the reception value associated with the particular network node, according to some embodiments. User equipment in a wireless network adapted for the above method is also provided. |
| US09071995B2 |
Methods, systems, and computer readable media for long term evolution (LTE) uplink data processing
Methods, systems, and computer readable media for performing long term evolution (LTE) uplink data processing are disclosed. One method occurs at an LTE multi-UE simulator. The method includes receiving at least one transport data block containing uplink data to be transmitted to a device under test and dynamically assigning, using processing information associated with the at least one transport data block, at least one physical resource from a plurality of dynamically assignable physical resources for processing the at least one transport block includes receiving at least one transport data block containing uplink data to be transmitted to a device under test. |
| US09071991B2 |
Method and apparatus of requiring uplink resources for transmitting ranging request message in communication system
A method and an apparatus of requiring uplink resources for transmitting a ranging request message in a communication system are provided. The method includes allocating an uplink bandwidth from a base station, and fragmentizing a Ranging Request (RNG-REQ) message into plural fragmented RNG-REQ messages, when the allocated bandwidth does not accommodate an entire RNG-REQ message, requesting an additional uplink bandwidth by transmitting one fragmented RNG-REQ message, and allocating an requested additional uplink bandwidth from the base station and transmitting a next one fragmented RNG-REQ message. |
| US09071987B2 |
Survivable mobile network system
A method of establishing communication links during a failure within a mobile communications network includes detecting disruptions in communications between a plurality of base stations and a plurality of mobile terminals. Survivability components are activated within the base station and the mobile terminal to operate in a survivability mode. The survivability mode enables communications and services to be provided by the surviving base stations to mobile terminals through activated survivability components. The alternate communication links may operate for as long as a disruption exists. |
| US09071986B2 |
Method and apparatus for dynamically controlling quality of service
A method and apparatus for dynamically controlling quality of service (QoS) is provided herein. During operation, a QoS manager will determine if a device is currently being used by an individual. The QoS of the device will then be tailored based on whether or not the device is currently being used by the individual. Devices that may be running applications, yet unused by anyone may have their QoS reduced. This will allow the QoS to be increased for devices that are currently being used. |
| US09071985B2 |
Apparatus and method for user equipment assisted congestion control
A method, an apparatus, and a computer program product for wireless communication are provided in connection with improving QoE in RAN congestion. In one example, a communications device is equipped to indicate a quality control indicator (QCI) for each of a plurality of applications that communicate with a RAN over a bearer, receive information regarding modification of the bearer or additional bearers based on the QCIs, and modify the bearer or additional bearers according to the information to achieve a desired QoE for at least one of the plurality of applications. In another example, a RAN is equipped to receive a QCI for each of a plurality of applications related to a bearer from a UE, and modify the bearer or adding additional bearers for communicating with the UE based on the QCI for each of the plurality of applications to improve QoE at the UE. |
| US09071980B2 |
Method and apparatus for signal quality determination in a communication network
One aspect of the present invention is method for signal quality measurement that provides significant improvements in accuracy, at least in certain scenarios where conventional approaches to such measurements are vulnerable to inaccuracies. Non-limiting example scenarios include instances where a communication network uses downlink carriers in neighboring cells with overlapping frequencies but with different bandwidths and/or center frequencies. In such cases, there may be uneven interference across the carrier bandwidth, e.g., arising from neighboring carriers operating at different center frequencies and/or at different bandwidths. Thus, making the signal quality measurement for a given carrier depend on a combination of measurements taken at different frequency regions of the carrier provides a clearer, more accurate picture of the interference or loading conditions bearing on that carrier. |
| US09071976B2 |
Communication network device, communication device, method for managing communication resource allocation and method for communication resource allocation
According to an aspect of this disclosure, a communication network device is provided comprising a receiver configured to receive a request that communication resources, that have been free for allocation by a communication network should not be allocated by the communication network; a determiner configured to determine a set of communication devices for which the communication resources have been free for allocation and which should not allocate the communication resources; and a controller configured to cause that the communication resources are not allocated by the communication devices of the determined set. |
| US09071975B2 |
Radio-frequency power amplifier circuitry with linearity optimization capabilities
An electronic device may be located in a geographical cell that is served by a base station. The electronic device may communicate with the base station on a frequency band. The frequency band may be subject to adjacent band emissions requirements to help prevent interference with wireless devices that are operating in adjacent frequency bands. The adjacent band emission requirements may vary based on the frequency band used to communicate with the base station, the geographical cell, and/or the presence of public safety radios. To satisfy the adjacent band emissions requirements while minimizing power consumption, the electronic device may receive cell information from the base station and adjust power amplifier linearity based on the received information. |
| US09071974B2 |
Mobile telephone firewall and compliance enforcement system and method
Methods, systems, and software for mediating SMS messages, and especially type 0 SMS messages, in a wireless mobile communications device configured to send and receive data using a GSM protocol and including a subscriber identity module (“SIM”) including electronic hardware and computer software executed by the hardware such that the SIM is configured to send, receive, and process messages using a Short Message System (“SMS”) between the wireless mobile communications device and a communications network. One aspect includes a method for mediating SMS messages comprising: configuring electronic hardware on the wireless mobile communications device to implement a firewall on the wireless mobile communications device, the firewall configured to identify and optionally mediate infrastructure SMS messages. |
| US09071972B1 |
Asynchronous tiered access control to a wireless home network
An asynchronous access controller comprising a subscriber profiler, a piracy detector and a password injector. The subscriber profiler configured to aggregate both information about subscribers together with information about each associated WLAN. The piracy detector is configured to detect whether wireless communications usage of at least one of the WLANs exceeds at least one parameter specified in a service level agreement (SLA) with the associated subscriber. The password injector controller is configured to inject a new network access password into one or more of the nodes of the WLAN responsive to an affirmative determination by the piracy detector; whereby subsequent network access is selectively revoked on the WLAN in a manner which returns communications usage thereon into conformance with the SLA for the associated subscriber. |
| US09071971B2 |
Adaptive and context based NFC access control filtering
A mobile device includes a transceiver for performing wireless communication; one or more secure elements which execute applications in a secure environment; a near field communication system for performing wireless communication independent of the transceiver and at a lower amount of power than said transceiver; and a contactless front end included in the near field communications system for receiving a data message from a near field communication device. The contactless front end includes a filter list for evaluating the data message and for controlling whether each data message is transmitted further into the mobile device. |
| US09071970B2 |
Terminal device
A terminal device including an operation unit configured to receive an operation instruction performed by an external object; an operation disabling controller which performs control such that when the terminal device is in a disabled state, the operation instruction performed on the operation unit is ignored or the disabled state is cancelled; an operation detector which outputs, when a touch operation by the external object is detected, content of the touch operation as the operation instruction; an operation speed determination unit which determines whether a movement speed of the touch operation is higher than a predetermined threshold; and an operation controller which instructs the operation disabling controller to cancel the disabled state and control execution of a predetermined function when it is determined that the touch operation is an operation instruction to cancel the disabled state and in accordance with the movement speed of the touch operation. |
| US09071968B2 |
Method, apparatus, and system for centralized 802.1X authentication in wireless local area network
The present invention discloses a method, an apparatus, and a system for centralized 802.1X authentication in a wireless local area network, and the method includes: receiving, by the access point, an EAP authentication start message from the UE, where a destination address of the EAP authentication start message is a MAC address corresponding to an air interface of the access point, and its source address is a MAC address of the UE; modifying the destination address of the EAP authentication start message to be a multicast address of a port access entity or a MAC address of the authentication entity; and forwarding the EAP authentication start message whose destination address is modified. |
| US09071966B2 |
Methods and apparatus for wireless networking connection
Systems and techniques for wireless client authentication are described. A wireless client seeking access to a network requiring authentication transmits a management frame following a signaling sequence that accomplishes scanning, network discovery, and authentication. An access point receiving the management frame forwards information contained in the management frame to a network and receives and forwards to a client an authentication response frame received from a network. |
| US09071962B2 |
Evolved packet system non access stratum deciphering using real-time LTE monitoring
A monitoring system is coupled to interfaces in an LTE network and passively captures packets from the network interfaces. First data packets associated with an authentication and key agreement procedure are captured on a first interface. Second data packets associated with the authentication and key agreement procedure are captured on a second interface. Individual ones of the first data packets are correlated to individual ones of the second data packets based upon a same parameter. An authentication vector table is created comprising information from the correlated first data packets and second data packets, wherein entries in the table comprise authentication data for a plurality of security contexts. A cipher key is identified to decipher additional packets for the user. The cipher key can also be identified in case of Inter Radio Access Technology Handover by the user equipment. |
| US09071955B2 |
Communication device and communication method
A terminal apparatus that communicates with a mobile apparatus includes a near-field communication unit that receives time-of-day information from the mobile apparatus through near-field communication, a use history information generation unit that extracts operation information of the terminal apparatus, and generates use history information on the basis of the time-of-day information received by the near-field communication unit, the use history information including time-of-day information associated with the detected operation information and indicating the time of day at which the corresponding operation was performed, and a main memory that stores the generated use history information. |
| US09071952B2 |
Unintentional call detection and response
Methods and systems for detecting unintentional calls placed to a call center. In some implementations, a device with telephone capability recognizes that it is being used to place a call, and automatically collects information usable to estimate whether the call is intentional or unintentional. For example, the device may record the timing of presses of a button used to initiate the call, the force used to press the button, or other parameters. The device may analyze the information, or may forward at least some of the information to the call recipient for analysis. When a suspected unintentional call is detected, the device may signal the user of the device, or other actions may be taken. |
| US09071947B1 |
On-hold processing for telephonic systems
In an end-of-hold notification method and apparatus, upon activation of end-of-hold notification from a first communication device, a detector is activated to detect an end-of-hold condition from a second communication device, a first signal is provided to the second communication device to indicate activation of end-of-hold notification, and a user of the first communication device is permitted to record a personalized message. After detection of the end-of-hold condition from the second communication device, a second signal is sent to the second communication device, the second signal including the personalized message recorded by the user of the first communication device. |
| US09071946B2 |
Provision of text messages to emergency call takers
Concurrent text and voice communications can be maintained with an emergency call taker. An application executing on a mobile communications device in conjunction with a network gateway provide voice communication as well as an interactive Short Messaging System (SMS) session with a public safety answering point (PSAP). The gateway correlates and manages SMS messages with the PSAP and the mobile device. As such, a virtual session is generated over a traffic channel, that provides the advantages of a voice call as well as allowing text based communications. |
| US09071943B2 |
Method, server, and system for processing emergency call in PoC service
The present disclosure provides a method, a server and a system for processing an emergency call in a PoC service. The method includes: receiving, by a PoC server, an emergency call request sent by an initiator; adding, by the PoC server, a mobile terminal as one party to an established emergency call group according to the emergency call request, where a first party of the emergency call group is a dispatcher; and forwarding, by the PoC server, a two-way session between the mobile terminal and the dispatcher. In the embodiments of the present disclosure, an emergency call may be provided in a PoC service. |
| US09071940B2 |
Systems, methods, and computer program products for estimating crowd sizes using information collected from mobile devices in a wireless communications network
Systems, methods, and computer program products are for estimating crowd size at a location. An exemplary method includes determining, at a crowd size analyzer, a number of wireless service users at the location, and estimating, at the crowd size analyzer, a total number of people at the location based upon the number of wireless service users determined to be at the location. |
| US09071936B2 |
Methods and devices for facilitating location approximation in a CDMA 1x network
Apparatus and methods are disclosed for determining a position of an access terminal within a wireless communication network. In some examples, the access terminal retrieves system information from its current serving cell and stores the retrieved system information in memory along with an associated timestamp. Over time, as the access terminal moves about the network, it can accumulate this system information for a plurality of base stations within its memory. By utilizing the system information for a plurality of base stations rather than only the current serving base station, as well as the associated timestamps, additional position information can be provided to the access terminal. Other aspects, embodiments, and features are also claimed and described. |
| US09071935B2 |
Self positioning of a wireless station
A self-positioning mechanism is provided that determines and tracks the position of an access point in real time. A location unaware access point determines its location from the locations of location aware stations. The location is determined based on a predicted estimate which is updated based on measured values of the locations of the location aware stations over a time period. The movement of the location is then tracked based on the differences between range measurements of the location aware stations. |
| US09071934B2 |
Optimizing location system configuration exchanges through dynamic location working profiles
A wireless location information system, device, and method are presented that include location system components (LSCs) that perform location-based operations; one or more location work profiles (LWPs) associated with each of the LSCs, in which the LWPs include configuration information of the LSCs; and a controller that controls the configuration information exchanges between the LSCs. As such, the controller component provides, in advance, one or more LWPs to each LSC, in which each of the LWPs is designated with a unique identifier and, upon a change in operational status, the controller provides the LSCs with only the identifier of the LWP affected by the change. |
| US09071933B2 |
Method and apparatus for performing a channel availability query for a plurality of locations
The present invention relates to a method and apparatus for channel availability query on multiple locations in a wireless local area network system. A method for a station (STA) to perform a channel query procedure in a wireless communication system comprises: transmitting, at a first STA corresponding to a channel availability query requesting STA, a first message to a second STA supporting the channel availability query procedure, wherein the second STA corresponds to a channel availability query responding STA, wherein the first message comprises device location information of one or more locations for the channel availability query; and receiving, at the first STA from the second STA, a second message comprising channel availability information, wherein the channel availability information is commonly applicable to multiple locations within an area, when the device location information of the first message is for the multiple location within the area. |
| US09071928B2 |
Trusted mode location service for mobile device access to private network based applications
In response to a location assistance request initiated by a mobile device on a private network and directed to a data access port of a location server in a public mobile communication network, a source network address is extracted from the received request. If the extracted source network address is determined to be associated with a trusted private network domain, location assistance data obtained by the location server is provided to the mobile device on the private network without requiring any proprietary messaging schemes or application-specific authentication credentials. |
| US09071926B2 |
Device detection using load modulation in near-field communications
First and second NFC devices both seek to determine whether the other device is present and available for communication across an NFC channel. The first NFC device modulates a load in its transceiver. The second NFC device transmits a waveform. If the first NFC device detects the waveform while modulating its load, and if the second NFC device detects the load modulation while transmitting the waveform, then the two NFC devices initiate communication in accordance with a communication protocol. |
| US09071924B2 |
Systems and methods for digital forensic triage
In one embodiment, a method for forensic triage may include coupling, communicatively, a computer and a mobile device. The computer can be booted with machine readable instructions stored on the one or more mobile memory modules of the mobile device. A search data set can be received with one or more mobile processors of the mobile device. One or more processors of the computer, the one or more mobile processors, or both, can execute, automatically, the machine readable instructions stored on the one or more mobile memory modules of the mobile device to search one or memory modules of the computer in a read only mode for triage data that corresponds to the search data set. The triage data can be transmitted via one or more communication modules of the mobile device. |
| US09071923B2 |
Automatic archiving of an application on a mobile device
A mobile device includes an automatic archiver program which configures a processor to identify an unused application which satisfies one or more predetermined archiving criteria, and prompts a user to archive the identified application via a user interface. A user interface is provided such that the user may either confirm or decline archiving of the identified application. Upon receiving user input that confirms archiving of the identified application, the application is archived. Several techniques are disclosed to effectively render the application inaccessible by the operating system, so as to prevent the application from executing any background tasks associated with the archived application. The automatic archiver program has root level access to an operating system of a mobile device such that the program may perform access, create, modify and/or delete operations for archiving private data as part of archiving of the application. |
| US09071922B2 |
Distributed V-MIMO processing for coordinated multipoint reception
The base stations in a coordinating set, i.e., CoMP set, implement distributed V-MIMO processing to decode uplink signals transmitted from multiple user terminals over the same time and frequency resources. Each base station uses the extrinsic information received from its coordinating base stations to facilitate demodulation and decoding. In the event that one of the base stations successfully decodes an uplink signal, it may provide the decoded data to the other coordinating base stations in the coordinating set. In this case, the coordinating base stations do not need to decode the uplink signal. Even if the uplink signal is not successfully decoded, the demodulated data received from the coordinating base station increases the likelihood of successfully decoding uplink signal in the next iteration of a HARQ process. |
| US09071908B2 |
Loudspeaker with a wave guide
The present invention relates to a loudspeaker including a first driver, which is configured to produce a first frequency band and a corresponding first acoustic axis, a second driver, which is configured to produce a second frequency band, which is different from the first frequency band but may overlap in a crossover region, and which second frequency band has a second acoustic axis, and an enclosure enclosing said drivers and comprising a three dimensional wave guide positioned on a front surface of the enclosure and around the first driver. In accordance with the invention the three dimensional waveguide comprises an acoustically selectively transparent portion which is acoustically essentially reflecting to sound waves of the first frequency band propagating in a direction angled to the first acoustic axis, the waveguide portion is essentially transparent to sound waves of the second frequency band propagating in the direction of the second acoustic axis through the waveguide portion, and in that the second driver is positioned inside the enclosure behind the acoustically selectively transparent portion. |
| US09071900B2 |
Multi-channel recording
An apparatus including a microphone array and a removing system. The microphone array includes a binaural microphone system having first and second transducers, and a voice microphone system having at least one third transducer. The removing system is configured to remove, from signals created from the binaural microphone system, components corresponding to sound of a user's voice sensed at the at least one third transducer. |
| US09071899B2 |
Narrow ceiling panel speaker systems
Narrow ceiling speaker panels designed to be compatible with Armstrong® TECHZONE™ suspended ceiling systems that include an end-flanged grill box nested in a baffle that supports a loudspeaker and associated electronics and which is nested in a flanged grill that is sized for compatibility. Attachments are though the grill box end flanges and baffle panel and through grill edge flanges and baffle edge flanges. The loudspeaker and associated electronics are fastened to the top side of the baffle through pre-drilled or punched holes. The grill may have a decorative appearance by virtue of edge style, pattern of holes, color, or finish. |
| US09071898B2 |
Acoustic loudspeaker
Acoustic loudspeaker comprising: a movable membrane; a source of constant magnetic field, a coil mechanically secured to said membrane and interacting with the magnetic field so as to displace the membrane, when it is traversed by an alternating current, characterized in that the membrane carries the coil at its periphery, and in that the magnetic field source is formed by a set of at least one magnetized element disposed at the periphery of said membrane, around the coil, the magnetic field generated by said at least one magnetized element being in a plane parallel to the membrane. |
| US09071896B2 |
Sound processor housings, sound processors and implantable cochlear stimulation systems including the same
Sound processor housings, sound processors and systems including sound processors are disclosed. |
| US09071894B2 |
Hearing protection system
A hearing protection system including a detection subsystem configured to determine bone conducted sound vibrations and one or more actuators placed proximate a predetermined location on the skull of a user configured to generate cancellation vibrations out of phase with the bone conducted sound vibrations to mitigate the effect of bone conducted sound vibrations on the middle and/or inner ear of a user. |
| US09071893B2 |
Multi-array ultrasonic probe apparatus and method for manufacturing multi-array probe apparatus
A multi-array type ultrasonic probe apparatus includes n tiles which transmit and receive an ultrasonic beam; and a substrate having n guide portions on which the n tiles are mounted, respectively, to be aligned in a multi-array. The multi-array ultrasonic probe apparatus may align tiles in identical directions and at identical levels to control a direction and a time for transmitting and receiving an ultrasonic beam to be transmitted and received at the tiles, thereby providing a stable ultrasonic beam. |
| US09071892B2 |
Switching between acoustic parameters in a convertible vehicle
A method of configuring an acoustics system of a convertible vehicle to receive speech from an occupant of the vehicle who is using hand-free technology. The position of the top of the convertible is first determined and based upon whether the top is up or down, an audio reception configuration is selected. The audio reception configuration includes a set of tuning parameters and a microphone arrangement. The acoustics system is then configured based upon the determination of whether the top is up or down. |
| US09071883B2 |
System and method for improved view layout management in scalable video and audio communication systems
A system and method for transmitting a plurality of video signals scalably coded into layers including a base layer and one or more enhancement layers and associated audio signals, if any, over a communication network for presentation to one or more end users. A layout to display the plurality of video signals is determined based on a set of criteria and only the data of the video signal layers that are necessary for displaying the video signals in the determined layout, and any associated audio signals, is selectively transmitted over the communication network. |
| US09071878B2 |
System and method of recording television content
A method of recording television content is disclosed and includes receiving one or more television program search criteria from a set-top box device at a recurrent searching system. The method also includes storing the one or more search criteria at the recurrent searching system. Further, the method includes performing a first search of electronic program guide (EPG) data accessible to the recurrent searching system based on the television program search criteria and performing at least one additional search of EPG data accessible to the recurrent searching system based on the television program search criteria after the first search. |
| US09071872B2 |
Interactive television systems with digital video recording and adjustable reminders
An interactive television system is provided in which an interactive television application is used to support network-based or local personal video recorder capabilities. A user may use this application to view lists of program listings. The user may select a program listing of interest. The interactive television application may allow the user to set a reminder for the selected program at the scheduled broadcast time. This application may also allow the user to set a reminder for the selected program at a later time at which the program is not scheduled to be broadcast. The user may be provided with a reminder at this later time. In response, the user may direct the network-based or local personal video recorder to play back the program or may defer the reminder again. The interactive television application may collect information on program usage and popularity to determine how long to retain certain programming. |
| US09071870B2 |
System and method for viewing digital visual content on a device
A system and method for viewing material displayed on an electronic device. When a user desires to view a document, only a portion of which is viewable on a display at a given moment, the portion is displayed on the display as a primary image. A secondary image is then generated, with the secondary image including the portion and additional material of the document not part of the primary image. The secondary image is superimposed over the primary image on the display when a user scrolls through the document such that both the secondary image and the primary image are visible to the user. |
| US09071869B2 |
Broadcasting receiving apparatus and method for providing broadcasting signal relation information
A broadcasting receiving apparatus and a method for providing broadcasting signal relation information are provided. The broadcasting receiving apparatus, which accesses a server through a network, includes a broadcasting signal receiver which receives a broadcasting signal; a channel identifier which identifies a change of a channel of the broadcasting signal, generates a fingerprint corresponding to the broadcasting signal of the changed channel, and receives identification information of the changed channel from a matching server based on the generated fingerprint; and a relevant information provider which receives conditional information that indicates a condition for receiving relevant information of the broadcasting signal if the channel is changed, receives the relevant information based on the conditional information and displays the received relevant information. |
| US09071868B2 |
Systems and methods for improving server and client performance in fingerprint ACR systems
A system and method are disclosed that improve the efficiency and performance of an Automatic Content Recognition (ACR) system. Several approaches are described that may be used alone or in combination to reduce total system computational costs related to the manner in which such an ACR means takes samples, called “fingerprints,” of digital content being played by a television display device and transmits said fingerprints to a remote server to be compared to a database of fingerprints from known programming. Methods are described for implementing such system performance enhancement including varying sampling rates and other resolution metrics during the process of creating such fingerprints and transmitting them to the database server. The system and method disclosed also describes how to reduce the probability that, when compared to samples from already-identified programming, such fingerprints are incorrectly identified as being of programming other than that which they are in fact derived from. |
| US09071866B2 |
Wireless video/audio signal transmitter/receiver
This invention is new to the field in two ways: [1] it sends audio/video signals wirelessly between tablet computing devices and smartphones to projection devices instead of using attached cables, and [2] it does not require an app, a second computing device, a driver, a download, or a “jailbreak” of the computing device to function properly. |
| US09071859B2 |
Methods and apparatus for user-based targeted content delivery
Methods and apparatus for selecting and delivering advertising or promotional content based on, e.g., the attributes of a desired demographic. In one embodiment, the invention enhances advertising or promotional penetration into a particular demographic of a network subscriber pool by correlating the advertising/promotion (and even the contextual program content) with specific users or groups of users within the pool. This approach decouples the advertising or promotion from any given program or lineup, and gives the network operator flexibility in deciding where, when, and how often to insert advertisements or promotions in order to achieve the desired result. Dynamic network architectures such as broadcast switched architectures can also be leveraged to further enhance flexibility and targeting precision. In effect, the network advertising or promotion model is made results-driven (versus program-centric). Subscriber privacy is also optionally maintained, thus ensuring that stored data is not traceable to a specific user. |
| US09071853B2 |
Broadcast content to HTTP client conversion
In embodiments of broadcast content to HTTP client conversion, a client converter (118) receives video content (108) as an input (204) of broadcast content data streams from a content distribution system (102). The client converter can join a content data stream of the broadcast input, and convert the content data stream to unicast HTTP data, such as video content segments (124) that are buffered for communication to a client device (120) or to a media player (138) of a client device (134). An HTTP server (122) of the client converter can then communicate the unicast HTTP data to the client device or to the media player for playback of the video content. |
| US09071852B2 |
Method for providing media-content related information, device, server, and computer-readable storage medium for executing the method
A method for providing media content-related information by using a device capable of accessing a server via a network is provided, the method comprising: generating identification information of media content being reproduced by the device; transmitting the identification information from the device to the server; receiving at least one of key information and media content-related information, from the server, in response to the identification information; and providing a user of the device with the media content-related information about the media content based on the at least one of the key information and the media content-related information received from the server. |
| US09071848B2 |
Sub-band video coding architecture for packet based transmission
Sub-band video coding architecture for packet based transmission. Video processing includes converting of a frame or picture of a video signal into a number of respective sub-bands or sub-frames (e.g., such that each respective one is a respective subsampled version of an original frame or picture) and subsequent assembly thereof into a reconstructed frame or picture. The reconstructed frame or picture then undergoes video encoding to generate an output bitstream that may subsequently undergo appropriate processing (e.g., packetization, continuous time signal generation, etc.) to generate a signal for transmission via one or more communication the links. Characteristics associated with each respective sub-band or sub-frame may be similar (e.g., similar characteristics) or different (e.g., two or more sub-bands or sub-frames have different characteristics, such as different respective number of pixels, aspect ratios, etc.). Respective sub-frames may undergo video encoding and transmission. |
| US09071846B2 |
Moving picture encoding method and apparatus for performing a multi-frame motion prediction with reference to a plurality of picture frames
A moving picture encoding method for performing a multi-frame motion prediction with reference to a plurality of picture frames that includes, in reference frames used for the multi-frame motion prediction, a frame that has been encoded in a higher picture quality than the other frames of the same picture type. The frame encoded in the higher picture quality is a P-picture frame or a B-picture frame, for example, and preferably is a frame to which more code amount is assigned than the other frames of the same picture type or a frame having a smaller quantizing parameter than the other frames of the same picture type. |
| US09071844B2 |
Motion estimation with motion vector penalty
The MPEG motion estimation process is improved by the introduction of the motion vector penalty. The motion vector employed to encode a macroblock takes into consideration the number of bits needed to encode the macroblock with the selected motion vector. This consideration includes a sum of the residual error and the cost to encode the candidate motion vector. This provides an optimization of the bit allocation and vector type selection. This optimization results in a significantly improved picture quality. |
| US09071834B2 |
Array of individually angled mirrors reflecting disparate color sources toward one or more viewing positions to construct images and visual effects
A general purpose image and visual effects display apparatus, with associated methods, which is comprised of an array of independently angled reflective or refractive elements wherein the varying angle pattern of each element across said array is designed to reflect or refract specifically designed as well as fortuitously located existing colors, in precisely determined patterns, to make apparent to specific viewing or receiving locations a wide range of complex emergent visual and other effects. In some embodiments very high resolution and high color fidelity image display is possible. In other embodiments moving images akin to video can be displayed, using no electronics or moving parts. In other embodiments true binocular 3D images can be displayed directly to viewers, without the need for special 3D viewing glasses. Many of the embodiments and methods are applicable to non-visible light and other reflectable wave-based phenomena. |
| US09071828B2 |
Imaging apparatus
An imaging apparatus includes: an image sensor having a plurality of light receiving elements arranged therein; a light shielding member disposed between an imaging optical system and the image sensor, the light shielding member configured to make only a light flux, which has passed through a predetermined area of the imaging optical system, incident on a first light receiving element which is a part of the plurality of light receiving elements; and an image generation device configured to generate an image of a subject from an imaging signal of the first light receiving element, in which the light shielding member is a plate-shaped member having a first light shielding material configured to shield a light flux, which has passed through an area other than the predetermined area, formed therein. |
| US09071826B2 |
Video encoder and decoder apparatus deciding error in transform coefficients between an original image and a predictive image
A video encoder apparatus using a distributed video coding (DVC) includes a Wyner-Ziv frame encoder for forming a predictive image of a Wyner-Ziv frame on the basis of coded key frames, and determining, according to the fallibility of the transform coefficients of the predictive image with respect to the transform coefficients of an original image based on the Wyner-Ziv frame, the amount of error correction codes to be transmitted so as to transmit the error correction codes corresponding to the determined amount. When no errors are found between the transform coefficients of the original image of the Wyner-Ziv frame and the predictive image, information indicating that no errors are found is sent out instead of the error correction codes for the Wyner-Ziv frame in question. |
| US09071823B2 |
Method and apparatus for predictive reference data transfer scheme for motion estimation
A method and apparatus for predicting reference data transfer scheme for motion estimation. The method includes computing, via the processor, hypothetical rectangle region in reference frame containing all the predicting and reference data for doing motion estimation search around the region, if the macroblock is not the first in a row, utilizing overlap with previously fetched reference data, computing overlap with previously fetched reference data, and transferring needed data, invalidating any predictor, wherein the predictor is not part of the fetched data, and regulating the motion estimation and setting the motion vector to an effective value based on the fetched and computed data. |
| US09071817B2 |
Picture coding method and picture decoding method
The picture coding method of the present invention is a picture coding method for coding a picture on a block-by-block basis, comprising: a selection step of selecting one of at least two sizes as a size of a block on which orthogonal transformation should be performed; a transformation step of performing orthogonal transformation on a block having the selected size; a coding step of coding data of said block obtained in the transformation step; and a generation step of generating a coded stream that includes the coded data of the block and size information concerning the size selected in the selection step, wherein the size information indicates whether or not the size is a fixed block size within a predetermined section in the coded stream, and the predetermined section is one of a sequence, a group of pictures, a picture, a slice, and a macroblock. |
| US09071812B2 |
Intelligent recording
An audio/video recording method and system is provided. The method includes analyzing audio/video presentation capabilities for audio/video presentation devices and formats of a first group of broadcast audio/video files associated with the broadcast audio/video data. Results of the analyses are compared and in response a first audio/video file is selected from the first group of broadcast audio/video files. The first audio/video file includes a first format requiring a first amount of storage space within a storage device of the audio/video recording device. The first format is associated with the audio/video presentation capabilities of a first audio/video presentation device and the first audio/video file is recorded. |
| US09071808B2 |
Storage medium having stored information processing program therein, information processing apparatus, information processing method, and information processing system
A storage medium having stored an information processing program therein, an information processing apparatus, an information processing method, and an information processing system, which enable highly entertaining display in accordance with a user which performs an operation input, are provided. A characteristic of the face of a user currently using a game apparatus 10 is detected, and data indicating the detected characteristic is compared to already stored data indicating characteristics of the faces of users. If there is data indicating a closest characteristic, among the already stored data, the data is selected. When the data is selected, a motion of an object is set and controlled in accordance with a number of times which the data is selected. |
| US09071803B2 |
Image processing apparatus, image pickup apparatus, image processing method and non-transitory computer-readable storage medium storing image processing program
The image processing apparatus includes an estimator configured to estimate an amount of a color blur of each of multiple color components included in a color image, and a processor configured to perform a color blur reduction process to reduce, from the color image, the color blur of each color component by using the estimated amount of the color blur thereof. The apparatus further includes a decider configured to acquire a hue formed by the color blurs of the color components and to decide, depending on the hue, an order of the color components on which the color blur reduction processes are performed. |
| US09071801B2 |
Image forming apparatus, control method therefor and storage medium
An image forming apparatus that enables to output a transmission result report without confusing a user even if a part of printing mechanisms or a printing function is broken. A report output unit generates a transmission result report showing a result of transmission of image data and causes the printing unit to output the transmission result report. A setting unit sets whether to add a part of the transmitted image data to the transmission result report as an additional image. A control unit creates and outputs the transmission result report without adding the additional image even if the setting unit sets to add the additional image, when the transmitted image data is the color image and when the printing unit cannot print a color image and can print a monochrome image. |
| US09071797B2 |
Systems and methods for remote access to programming information
A method for remotely accessing selected content can include receiving a list of content separate from a video stream. The list of content can include content previously recorded according to a user-defined recording schedule. The method can further include sending a request for content selected from the list of content, receiving the content through a network, and displaying the content. |
| US09071793B2 |
Method for controlling external device and remote controller thereof
A display device including a display module; a first interface to transmit and receive a signal to and from a remote controller; a second interface to transmit and receive a signal to and from at least one external apparatus; and a processing unit to output processed data to the display module to display a video. Further, when the first interface wirelessly receives a remote control signal regarding a first external apparatus from the remote controller, the second interface wirelessly transmits the remote control signal to the first external apparatus. In addition, the first interface wirelessly transmits information on any external apparatus connected to the display device among a plurality of external apparatuses to the remote controller, such that the remote controller displays a changed key for a user's input depending on the information on the external apparatus. |
| US09071792B2 |
Adaptive media content scrubbing on a remote device
A method includes presenting media content on a mobile device; receiving a command during the presenting to change the destination of presentation from the mobile device to a display device associated with a media client; and providing a first portion of the media content stored on the mobile device to the media client for presentation on the display device in communication with the media client. Providing the first portion of the media content includes providing a portion of the media content associated with a time in the media content when the command to change the destination was received. |
| US09071789B2 |
Method and device for storing stream data such as digital video and non-stream data
Storage device for stream data such as digital video and for non-stream data such as computer files, comprising a single file system which features a first type of storage unit for storing audio and/or video streams and a second type of storage unit for storing non-stream data, wherein the size of the first storage unit is a multiple of the size of the second storage unit, said device further comprising means for allocating a unit of the first type either for stream storage or to split a unit of the first type into a plurality of units of the second type, for storage of non-stream data. The invention also concerns a method for storing stream data or non-stream data. Applicable in digital television systems. |
| US09071788B2 |
Video vehicle entertainment device with driver safety mode
This document relates to a vehicle entertainment device 1 having a driver safety mode and an enhanced audio playback function. The device 1 detects whether the vehicle in which the entertainment device is situated is in motion, or if the driver is preparing to drive the vehicle momentarily. If either of these conditions is detected, the processor 20 acts to disable the video playback on the screen 3 of the entertainment device. At the same time, the processor 20 causes an audio descriptor track corresponding to the disabled video to be played through the speakers 4 of the entertainment device. The audio descriptor track is in addition to the main audio track accompanying the video and provides a verbal description of the content of the video. |
| US09071784B2 |
Image forming apparatus, printing control terminal apparatus, and image forming method thereof
An image forming method, which includes pre-scanning a page to be scanned, displaying candidate colors that correspond to a preset condition through analysis of color components of the pre-scanned image, selecting a dropout color among the displayed candidate colors, and eliminating the selected dropout color from a main-scanned image if main scan of the page to be scanned is performed. |
| US09071783B2 |
Solid-state imaging device and manufacturing method
There is provided a solid-state imaging device including an imaging unit including a plurality of image sensors, and an analog to digital (AD) conversion unit including a plurality of AD converters arranged in a row direction, each AD converter performing AD conversion of an electrical signal output by the image sensor. Each of the AD converters includes a comparator having a differential pair at an input stage, the differential pair including a first transistor and a second transistor, the first and second transistors are each divided into an equal number of a plurality of division transistors, and an arrangement pattern of the plurality of division transistors constituting the comparator in a predetermined column and an arrangement pattern of the plurality of division transistors constituting the comparator in an adjacent column adjacent to the predetermined column are different from each other. |
| US09071782B2 |
Physical information acquisition apparatus for driving physical information acquisition sensor control lines at multiple dividing points
A solid-state image sensor with one or more control lines driven at arbitrary dividing points along the control line. |
| US09071779B2 |
Photoelectric conversion apparatus and image pickup system
A photoelectric conversion apparatus includes a plurality of pixels provided in a plurality of columns, a plurality of analog-to-digital conversion units each provided for a corresponding one of the plurality of columns, and a correction unit. Each of the plurality of analog-to-digital conversion units is configured to convert a signal of a corresponding one of the plurality of pixels into a digital signal at a resolution corresponding to a magnitude of the signal. The correction unit is configured to correct a difference in the resolution. |
| US09071776B2 |
Reflective imaging device and image acquisition method
In order to generate a two-dimensional image of a sample in a short time using THz waves, provided is a reflective imaging device including a sample holder, a THz wave light source, a THz wave camera, a rotation mechanism for rotating the holder and the camera, and a processing unit. A sample unit includes an incidence member, a sample, and a reflection member. The sample includes a first region of only a membrane and a second region including a biopolymer. The camera detects, with regard to respective incident angles, a THz wave in which interference occurs between a component reflected at an interface between the incidence member and the sample and a component reflected at an interface between the sample and the reflection member, of each portion of the sample unit, and outputs a signal. The processing unit specifies an incident angle at which a signal of a first THz wave that interferes in the first region is relatively small and a signal of a second THz that interferes in the second region is relatively large, and generates a two-dimensional image of the sample based on the signal from the camera with regard to the specified incident angle. |
| US09071774B2 |
Control device, image output apparatus, image output system, non-transitory computer readable medium, and control method
A control device includes a first acquisition unit that acquires a first notification reservation request which requests a notification reservation of an event and includes first identification information for identifying a notification destination of the event, a second acquisition unit that acquires a second notification reservation request which requests a notification reservation of an event and includes second identification information for identifying a notification destination of the event, and a first controller that performs a control such that information regarding the notification reservation of the event requested by the second notification reservation request is stored in a memory according to a difference between the first identification information and the second identification information. |
| US09071772B2 |
Laser based display method and system
The present invention is directed to display technologies. More specifically, various embodiments of the present invention provide projection display systems where one or more laser diodes are used as light source for illustrating images. In one set of embodiments, the present invention provides projector systems that utilize blue and/or green laser fabricated using gallium nitride containing material. In another set of embodiments, the present invention provides projection systems having digital lighting processing engines illuminated by blue and/or green laser devices. In one embodiment, the present invention provides a 3D display system. There are other embodiments as well. |
| US09071771B1 |
Raster reordering in laser projection systems
Techniques are described for reducing safety-relevant emission of a laser projection system. A multi-facet optical element is positioned in the path of a raster-scanning laser beam. Each facet of the optical element is angled to redirect a projected pixel to a different pixel position. Collectively, the facets are configured to convert the projected raster scan into a non-raster scan in which physically proximate pixels are illuminated temporally non-proximate times. |
| US09071767B2 |
Omnidirectional camera
An omnidirectional camera comprises a camera mounting frame 5 of a cylindrical hollow body, two or more first mount blocks 8 which hold a first lens unit 9 in a horizontal posture and are installed to the camera mounting frame from a horizontal direction, and first circuit boards provided on inner end surfaces of the first mount blocks, and in the omnidirectional camera, the camera mounting frame and the first mount blocks are made of materials with good heat transfer properties, the first circuit board has a ground layer formed on an abutting surface with respect to the first mount block and a first image pickup element arranged on an optical axis of the first lens unit, and the heat generated from the first image pickup element is radiated from the first mount block and the camera mounting frame through the ground layer. |
| US09071764B2 |
System and method for color imaging under low light
A camera for enhanced color imaging in a low light environment including: one or more illuminators for illuminating a R, a G, and a B light at different time periods; an image sensor for capturing R G and B image frames; and a processor configured to generate an intermediate color frame from each of the R, G and B image frames; determine moving pixels in the each of the intermediate color frames; determine a true color for the moving pixels in each intermediate color frame; generate a true color frame for each intermediate color frame by substituting color of the moving pixels with respective true colors of the moving pixels, in intermediate color frame; calculate scene color metrics from the true color frame or intermediate color frame; and adaptively adjust illumination of one or more of the R, G, and B lights to enhance a next frame. |
| US09071763B1 |
Uniform illumination image capture
Methods and systems are provided for capturing an image having uniform illumination over a range of distances. The system may include a light source, a light sensing array, and an electronic circuit. The method may involve selecting a range of distances from the system, causing the light source to generate a light pulse with a modulated decay, and using the light sensing array to sense an integrated intensity of a reflected light pulse during an exposure time. The reflected light pulse may be provided by the generated light pulse reflecting from an object located at an object distance within the range of distances. The exposure time may be controlled based on the range of distances and the modulated decay such that the integrated intensity of the reflected light pulse is substantially independent of the object distance. |
| US09071759B2 |
Compound-eye imaging device, and parallax adjusting method and program thereof
A composite eye camera has: imaging sections (21A, 21B) that generate plural viewpoint images per frame by imaging a same subject from plural viewpoints; a three-dimensional processing section (30) that acquires a parallax amount on the basis of the generated plural viewpoint images; and a CPU (35) that judges that there is an abnormality in the parallax amount in at least one case among a case in which fluctuation of a fixed interval in the acquired parallax amount is greater than a predetermined value, and a case in which the parallax amount reaches a predetermined allowed limit value, and a case in which an object of acquisition of the parallax amount can no longer be detected, and judges that there is no abnormality in the parallax amount in a case that is none of these, and, when it is judged that there is no abnormality in the parallax amount, carries out first parallax adjustment, and, when it is judged that there is an abnormality in the parallax amount, switches to control of a second parallax adjustment, that is different than control of the first parallax adjustment, and carries out parallax adjustment. Accordingly, parallax adjustment is carried out appropriately even when there are problems in the parallax amount itself that is determined from the plural viewpoint images, or when an object of parallax adjustment can no longer be detected. |
| US09071755B2 |
Sports camera
Disclosed is a sports camera, which comprises a main control unit, an image processing module, a motion parameter detection display module, a power supply module and a memory. The power supply module is connected with the main control unit and the image processing module. The image processing module comprises a digital signal processor and an image sensor, and the motion parameter detection display module comprises a GPS module and an acceleration sensor. The main control unit is connected with the digital signal processor, the memory, the GPS module and the acceleration sensor, and said digital signal processor is connected with the memory and the image sensor. The sports camera of the present invention can make sure that the image is normal and vertical when playing back the photo or video taken by the camera, thereby improving the image effect and increasing the ease of use of the sports camera. |
| US09071749B2 |
Camera apparatus and method of recognizing an object by using a camera
An apparatus and method of recognizing an object by using a camera includes detecting feature information from a first preview image; comparing the feature information with a threshold condition; changing a camera setting parameter, when the feature information does not satisfy the threshold condition; and performing an object recognition for a second preview image generated based on the changed camera setting parameter. |
| US09071748B2 |
Image sensor with focus-detection pixels, and method for reading focus-information
An image sensor (810) comprises a plurality of image pixels (R, G, B) and a plurality of focus-pixels (F), each focus-pixel comprising a light shield (51a, 51b) for partly shielding the focus-pixel from incident light so as to obtain a focus-related signal in a first mode of operation. The image sensor further comprises additional circuitry for processing the focus-related signal, which additional circuitry is conveniently located underneath the light shields. The additional circuitry may be adapted for accumulating the charge of two focus-pixels (F1a, F2a), e.g. by charge binning, and for providing the accumulated charge in a second mode of operation. |