Document Document Title
US09075504B2 Portable telephone
In a portable telephone according to the present invention, a display displays a block indicative of an operator, predetermined information and a pointer; the operator can be operated in directions opposite to each other; and the controller controls the display so as to shift the pointer to a desirable position within a predetermined information on a screen of the display in accordance with an operation of the operator and also display a mark indicative of a direction to which the pointer can be shifted and in which the predetermined information exists, adjacently to the block along a shift direction through the operator.
US09075501B1 Visual planner for strategic planning
In certain embodiments, a method includes accessing planning information, the planning information comprising information associated with an overall plan and sub-plans of the overall plan. The method further includes generating a visual planner comprising nodes arranged in an organogram structure. The nodes comprise a parent node and child nodes. The parent node comprises an identification of a first portion of the overall plan, a goal amount corresponding to the first portion of the plan, and a plan amount. Each child node comprises an identification of a corresponding portion of the overall plan, a corresponding plan amount for the corresponding portion of the plan, and a corresponding goal amount for the corresponding portion of the plan. The plan amount of the parent node comprises the sum of the plan amounts of the child nodes.
US09075499B2 Method and apparatus for providing reference content
An interactive grid display presented on a communications device offers a frontline representative of an enterprise or other user at a work site access to information for addressing a client's request. Available information is sorted and selected via the interactive grid based on a number of primary categories that are identified along one dimension of the grid and a number of subcategories identified along another dimension of the grid. Information is presented in the interactive grid directly, for example, typically without requiring the user to conduct a search for the information. In response to a user selecting a point on the grid for the category and sub-category that best matches the information desired by the representative, based on grid intersection for appropriate primary and secondary categories, the device interface drills down to obtain more specific information for presentation to the user.
US09075498B1 User interface for finding similar documents
A computing device determines counts of documents that are similar to a reference document for a set of similarity ratings. Each similarity rating is based on a number of co-occurring terms between the reference document and corresponding similar documents. The computing device present the reference document and a GUI element pertaining to the documents similar to the reference document in a graphical user interface (GUI). Upon a selection of the GUI element, the computing device presents a visual representation of a correlation between the counts of similar documents and the similarity ratings in the GUI. The visual representation is provided prior to displaying at least one of the similar documents.
US09075487B2 Touch panel
A touch panel includes a substrate, a touch sensing element, a plurality of transmission lines, a first frame structure, and a second frame structure is provided. The touch sensing element is disposed on the substrate to define an active region. The transmission lines are connected to the touch sensing element. The first frame structure is disposed on the substrate and surrounding the active region to define a first periphery region. The transmission lines are at least partially located on a top surface of the first frame structure. The second frame structure is disposed on the substrate and surrounding the first frame structure, wherein the second frame structure is disposed at an outer border of the first periphery region. A material of the first frame structure is different from a material of the second frame structure.
US09075485B2 Touch display panel and touch sensing substrate
A touch display panel including a flat display panel and a touch sensing device disposed on the flat display panel is provided. The touch sensing device includes a plurality of the center sensing series and at least a margin sensing series corresponding to the display area of the flat display panel. Each center sensing series is formed by a plurality of center sensing electrodes serially connected. The margin sensing series disposed along the margin of the display area is formed by a plurality of margin sensing electrodes serially connected. Each of the margin sensing electrodes includes an inner portion and a rectangular outer portion. An area of the inner portion is substantially half of an area of the center sensing electrode. A parallel hemline is formed by the rectangular outer portions serially connected.
US09075484B2 Sensor patterns for mutual capacitance touchscreens
According to one embodiment, there is provided a mutual capacitance touchscreen comprising a first set of electrically conductive traces arranged in rows or columns and a second set of electrically conductive traces arranged in rows or columns arranged at right angles with respect to the rows or columns of the first set, where the first and second sets of traces are electrically insulated from and interdigitated respecting one another, and gaps between the first and second sets of traces form boundaries between the first and second sets of traces that undulate and that are not straight or linear. Other embodiments of a mutual capacitance touchscreen are also disclosed, such as “mini-diamond” sensor array patterns and sensor array patterns that may be manufactured at low cost.
US09075483B2 Negative pixel compensation
Compensation of pixels that generate erroneous readings (so-called “negative pixels”), produced when multiple touch events are generated by the same poorly grounded object on a touch sensor panel is disclosed. To minimize negative pixels, a thicker cover material and/or a lower dielectric constant can be used. Alternatively, narrower drive and sense lines can be employed. To compensate for negative pixels, a predicted negative pixel value can be computed as an indicator of pixels that are likely to be distorted. The negative pixel value for any particular pixel can be computing by summing up the touch output values for pixels in the drive line of that pixel, summing up the touch output values for pixels in the sense line of that pixel, and then multiplying these two sums. The predicted negative pixel value is added to the measured touch output value for the pixel to compensate for artificially negative readings.
US09075481B2 ESD detection on a touch input device
A touch sensitive device that detects the occurrence of an electrostatic discharge event on the device by analyzing an acquired touch image for characteristics associated with the occurrence of an ESD event is provided. An acquired touch image is analyzed for characteristics that differentiate it from a touch image generated by a user input and are correlated with an expected touch image generated by an ESD event.
US09075480B2 Optical touch device and method for calculating coordinate of touch point
An optical touch device utilizes a weighting to integrate two coordinates of a touch point sensed by two sets of image sensing units, so as to calculate an output coordinate of the touch point performed on a central touch area. Accordingly, the invention can effectively prevent a touch trajectory from shifting on the central touch area, such that the touch trajectory will be much smoother on the central touch area.
US09075479B2 Input device and method using an optical touch panel and a contact touch panel
There is a conventional input device wherein a blind operation is easy because a touch panel type operation unit and a display unit are separately arranged at locations distant from each other, but such a conventional input device requires a camera for photographing a user's hand on the operation unit, and image processing for converting the photographed image of the hand and combining the image on the display unit, and thus, simplification of the processing method has been desired. Further, reducing the number of components used for such a device has been desired. Disclosed are an input device using a touch panel and an input method thereof, wherein the input device (1) which uses a touch panel is configured by an optical touch panel (3) provided with a touch-type touch panel (2), a retroreflection film (31) covering a surface of the touch-type touch panel (2), and a pair of detection units (34) located on the upper portions of the opposite ends of a side of the touch-type touch panel (2), and wherein two types of detection which are recognition of the shape of the operating body and detection of coordinate positions can be performed by the optical touch panel.
US09075475B2 Portable electronic device including touch-sensitive display and method of determining when to turn off the touch sensitive dispay
A method of controlling a portable electronic device includes detecting a touch on a touch-sensitive display, adjusting a first threshold based on detected conditions during the touch, comparing a value related to the touch on the touch-sensitive display to the first threshold, and when the value related to touch meets the first threshold, turning off the display.
US09075473B2 Interactive display with removable front panel
Systems and apparatus for a touch sensitive display device are disclosed. The display device may include a detachable transparent front panel which overlays a display panel. The detachable transparent front panel may be held against the display panel and a plurality of pressure sensors by a series of magnets. This allows the front panel to act as an interactive touch display system. By having a detachable transparent front panel, the touch sensitive display device may be placed in messy environments, such as a kitchen. A user can then remove and wash the detachable transparent front panel without harming any electronic components.
US09075468B2 Device for controlling multiple different functions of a motor vehicle
An apparatus for the operator control of a plurality of different functions in a motor vehicle has a touch-sensitive display panel that can be used to display at least some of the controllable functions by respective symbols associated with the respective function. The symbols can be moved on the display panel by a combined touch and displacement movement in order to bring the respective function to be controlled to a fixed operator control position on the display panel at which operator control of the respective function is possible. The apparatus furthermore has an operator control device that is separate from the display panel and that has at least one operator control element arranged adjacent to the operator control position, for controlling the selected function.
US09075466B2 Touch panel with single electrode layer
The invention provides a touch panel with a single electrode layer, which has a plurality of sensing channels. Each of the sensing channels includes a plurality of first transmission lines, a second transmission line and a plurality of first and second sensing electrodes on a substrate. The routing path of the first and second transmission lines routed on the substrate is non-straight. And, the first sensing electrodes and the second sensing electrodes include a plurality of first holes and second holes, respectively. The second sensing electrodes and the first sensing electrodes are disposed on the same side of the substrate. The geometric shapes of the first holes and the second holes correspond to the geometric shapes of the routing path of the first transmission lines and the second transmission line routed on the substrate. Thereby, the display quality can be improved by the touch panel of the present invention.
US09075465B2 Method of identifying touch event on touch panel by shape of signal group and computer readable medium thereof
An exemplary method of identifying a touch event on a touch panel is provided. The touch panel includes a plurality of sensing blocks. The sensing blocks have a plurality of corresponding sensing values generated in response to the touch event. The exemplary method includes the following steps: selecting a processing region on the touch panel, wherein the processing region comprises at least a portion of sensing blocks each having a sensing value greater than a threshold; deriving a first value and a second value from sensing values of sensing blocks included in the processing region; calculating a ratio of the first value to the second value; and identifying the touch event according to at least the ratio.
US09075463B2 Display device with an integrated touch screen and method for driving the same
A display device with an integrated touch screen including a panel including electrodes divided into n number of groups, where n is an integer more than or equal to two; a display driver IC configured to apply a common voltage to the n divided groups when a driving mode of the panel is a display driving mode, and to selectively apply a touch scan signal or the common voltage to the n divided groups when the driving mode of the panel is a touch driving mode; and a touch IC configured to generate the touch scan signal to apply the touch scan signal to the display driver IC.
US09075460B2 Method of momentum based zoom of content on an electronic device
A method of interacting with a user interface displaying content on a display of an electronic device is provided. A zoom gesture is detected to modify a zoom level of the content displayed on the user interface. A momentum or kinetic value for the zoom gesture is determined and a final zoom level based on the determined momentum value of the zoom gesture is determined. The animation of the transition to the final zoom level can be adjusted to display the content on the user interface at the determined final zoom level. The content may be a webpage in a web browser where the zoom gesture is performed on regions within the content. The momentum of the zoom gesture is utilized to determine a desired region and adjust a final zoom level to align the content.
US09075452B2 Optical digitizer system with position-unique photoluminescent indicia
A digitizer system includes a substrate with indicia having photoluminescent features that uniquely define local areas of the substrate. A sensor device, such as a stylus, may sense radiation emitted from the features, and a controller may determine therefrom the location of the stylus relative to the substrate.
US09075451B2 Handheld device with notification message viewing
Displaying information related to a message on a display screen of a handheld electronic device. In response to a movement of the handheld electronic device from an initial position to a first orientation, displaying on the display screen a first notice related to the message.
US09075445B2 System and method for implementing user interface
A system has an input device for collecting gesture information of a user, a computing device for processing the gesture information collected by the input device, a memory for storing information of executive trajectories for executing various functions, and an output device for displaying the information processed by the computing device, wherein each executive trajectory is defined as an executive input for each function, if a gesture performed by the user completes one of the executive trajectories, a function corresponding to the corresponding executive trajectory is executed, wherein, if the user starts a gesture, the computing device compares a path of a trajectory of a gesture performed by the user with start paths of the executive trajectories and selects candidate trajectories having similarity higher than a preset criterion, and wherein the candidate trajectories are displayed by the output device to suggest path information of the candidate trajectories to the user.
US09075444B2 Information input apparatus, information input method, and computer program
An information input apparatus includes an observation unit that observes an environment including a user and one or more apparatuses to be controlled and includes a sensor; a learning unit that separates a foreground including the user and the one or more apparatuses to be controlled and a background including the environment except for the foreground from observation data obtained by the observation unit and learns three-dimensional models of the foreground and the background; a state estimation unit that estimates positions and postures of already modeled foregrounds in the environment; a user recognition unit that identifies fingers of the user from the foreground and recognizes a shape, position, and posture of the fingers; and an apparatus control unit that outputs a control command to the one or more apparatuses to be controlled on the basis of the recognized shape, position, and posture of the fingers.
US09075442B2 Image processing apparatus, method, and computer-readable storage medium calculation size and position of one of an entire person and a part of a person in an image
There is provided an image processing apparatus including: a detecting unit detecting one of an entire person and a part of a person in an image produced by image data acquired by image pickup by an imaging unit; a position/size calculating unit calculating a size and a position of the detected one of the entire person and the part of the person in the image; and a GUI disposing unit disposing graphical user interface (GUI) elements, which are to be displayed by being superimposed on the image produced by the image data, on the image based on the calculated size and position.
US09075440B2 Operation input device and operation input detecting device
An operation input device includes a coil, an operation part configured to be displaced in an axial direction of the coil by the action of an operation input, a core whose positional relationship with the coil is changed by the displacement of the operation part, a yoke placed outside the coil, and a magnet configured to generate a magnetic flux that flows through the core and the yoke. The coil is configured to output a signal corresponding to the amount of the displacement of the operation part. The operation part is caused to move by an electric current flowing through the coil and the magnetic flux of the magnet.
US09075439B2 Display apparatus for sensing touch and providing an electro-tactile feeling and a method of driving the same
A touch tactile display apparatus includes a display panel and a tactile touch portion. The tactile touch portion is configured to sense a touch by a user and provide an electro-tactile feeling to an area in which the touch is sensed. The tactile touch portion includes a first electrode, a touch processor and a tactile processor. The touch processor applies a first signal to the first electrode to extract a touch coordinate. The tactile processor applies a second signal different from the first signal to the first electrode to provide the electro-tactile feeling. The first signal and the second signal are applied at different times.
US09075433B1 Information processing method and electronic device
An information processing method for avoiding that an electronic device becomes out of control is disclosed. The method comprises: determining the controlled electronic device is in a first control mode, and determining a first display format of M objects to form a first graphic display interface; displaying the first graphic display interface; obtaining a switching instruction for instructing the controlled electronic device to switch from the current first control mode to the second control mode; determining a second display format of the M objects on the first graphic display interface to form a second graphic display interface, in response to the switching instruction; and displaying the second graphic display interface. The present invention also discloses an electronic device.
US09075432B2 Method and apparatus for sharing content
A method, apparatus, and computer program product are provided to facilitate sharing of content between various computing devices. In the context of a method, an image of an external apparatus is received that includes information presented upon a display of the external apparatus. The method may also cause a content request to be provided that requests content upon which the information presented upon the display of the external apparatus is based. In response to the request, the method may receive the content upon which the information presented upon the display of the external apparatus is based.
US09075429B1 Distortion correction for device display
A computing device can implement one or more variable tactile elements (e.g., inflatable buttons/keys) overlaying a touchscreen of the device. The tactile elements can cause distortion to a view of content being displayed on the touchscreen underneath the tactile elements, which can decrease visibility of the content to a viewer (e.g., a user of the device). The device can receive information about the sizes, shapes, and/or locations of the tactile elements. Based on this information, the device can render the content in a manner so as to reduce the distortion caused by the tactile elements. In some embodiments, the device can also determine the device's orientation relative to the user (e.g., using head and/or facial feature tracking, etc.) and render the content to appear substantially undistorted while changes occur to the user's point of view with respect to the device and/or to the device's orientation relative to the user.
US09075421B2 Integrated circuit device, voltage regulator module and method for compensating a voltage signal
An integrated circuit device comprising at least one voltage supply module arranged to receive at an input thereof at least one control signal and to provide at an output thereof a voltage signal in accordance with the received at least one control signal, and at least one control module comprising at least one feedback loop between the output of the at least one voltage supply module and the input of the at least one voltage supply module, and arranged to generate the at least one control signal based at least partly on the voltage level of the voltage signal output by the at least one voltage supply module. The at least one control module is further arranged to receive at an input thereof at least one instantaneous indication of a load current at the output of the at least one voltage supply module, and apply a compensation to the at least one control signal provided to the at least one voltage supply module based at least partly on the received at least one indication of the load current.
US09075418B2 Vibration damping device and method for canceling out a vibration at a damping position based on a phase difference
A damping device includes a calculator calculating a pseudo vibration to cancel a source vibration transmitted from a vibration source to a position to be damped, using an adaptive control algorithm. The canceling vibration is generated according to the pseudo vibration. A vibration detector detects an error vibration remaining at the position. The adaptive control algorithm is adapted by learning to reduce the error vibration. A frequency recognizer recognizes a frequency of the source vibration from a signal related to the vibration source. The frequency of the vibration is used to determine a frequency of the pseudo vibration. A phase difference identifier identifies a phase difference between the error vibration and the canceling vibration according to the pseudo vibration, and a frequency corrector corrects, according to the phase difference, the frequency of the vibration to eliminate the phase difference.
US09075417B2 Controlled application of external forces to a structure for precision leveling and securing
Methods provide for the controlled application of forces to a structure during leveling and securing procedures. According to embodiments described herein, a structure is supported at a number of support locations. An upward force is applied to the structure by the force application devices to counteract an equivalent downward force from the structure at each support location. The forces applied by the force application devices are monitored to detect whenever one or more of the upward forces deviates outside of a threshold range of force values, which includes a quantity of force sufficient to counteract internal forces within a material of the structure. Each force may be adjusted to ensure no deviation outside of the allowed threshold range.
US09075416B2 Mobile body
Disclosed is a mobile body which plans an avoidance operation of the mobile body and an expected avoidance operation which is expected of a mobile obstacle, thereby improving efficiency of the avoidance operation. A mobile body (1) which moves along an operation target includes mobile obstacle detection means (6) and (7) for detecting a mobile obstacle in the vicinity of the mobile body (1), approach determination means (15) for determining whether or not the mobile obstacle and the mobile body approach each other within a predetermined interval, and operation planning means (16) for, when the approach determination means (15) determines that the mobile obstacle and the mobile body (1) approach each other within the predetermined interval, planning the avoidance operation of the mobile body (1) and an expected avoidance operation which is expected of the mobile obstacle.
US09075412B2 Self-propelled robotic pallet vehicle
Various aspects of the present disclosure provide a robotic pallet system that provides the ability to move palletized cargo without requiring the use of additional material handling equipment such as forklifts and K-loaders, for example. In some aspects, an integrated system may be used to interact with and control a number of robotic pallets. Such an integrated system may be used to deliver palletized cargo without additional equipment through self-propelled pallets, thereby reducing the number of personnel required to load palletized cargo by reducing the size of the team required to position the pallet inside of the aircraft and removing the need for a k-loader operator.
US09075406B2 Control device for internal combustion engine
A control device for internal combustion engine including: a corrector for correcting an target value of each object to be controlled; a predictor for predicting a future state of each of the objects when the objects are controlled according to an initial-target-value or a corrected-target-value of each object; and a determiner for determining whether or not the future state of each object satisfies a constraint condition for the internal combustion engine, wherein the correction of the target value of each object, the prediction of the future state of each object based on the corrected target value corrected by the correction, and the determination whether or not the predicted future state of each object satisfies the constraint condition are repeated until determined so that the predicted future state satisfies the constraint condition. Furthermore, the state of the object to be predicted is the state in the future after a limited predetermined period.
US09075404B2 Foot-operated controller
Highly expressive and flexibly programmable foot-operated controllers are described. Specific implementations are intended for musical applications and allow musicians an unprecedented degree of control of a wide variety of musical components and subsystems for recording and/or performance.
US09075402B2 System and method for mapping component bases using a chemical process simulator
A method includes identifying a simulated input flow stream associated with a chemical processing facility. The input flow stream includes an input component basis with multiple components having one or more properties that differ. The method also includes converting the input flow stream into a simulated output flow stream, which includes an output component basis that differs from the input component basis and comprises a single, active group of oil components and zero or more pure components. A pure component property of a pure component in the input flow stream could be combined with an oil component property of an oil component in the input flow stream. A pure component property of a pure component in the input flow stream could also be transferred to a pure component in the output flow stream without combination. An oil component property of an oil component in the input flow stream could further be mapped to an oil component property of the single output oil component.
US09075400B2 Motor control device
A motor control device that controls motion of a control target including a motor and a vibratable element includes a generating unit configured to generate, according to state information representing a state of the control target related to a vibration characteristic of the control target, a first parameter representing the vibration characteristic of the control target, a first calculating unit configured to calculate a second parameter corresponding to a temporal change amount of the first parameter generated by the generating unit, a second calculating unit configured to calculate, using a motion target value, the first parameter, and the second parameter, model torque such that the control target does not excite vibration, and a developing unit configured to develop, according to the model torque calculated by the second calculating unit, a torque command such that the motion of the control target follows the motion target value.
US09075399B2 Positioning control system for actuator provided with wave gear device
A positioning control system for an actuator provided with a strain wave gearing is provided with: a semi-closed feedback controller FB(s) that controls a load shaft position θ1 on the basis of a feedback motor shaft position θm; and a feedforward linearization compensator configured by incorporating a nonlinear plant model for an object to be controlled into a feedback linearization compensator using an exact linearization technique. The feedforward linearization compensator uses a forward-calculated state quantity estimated value x* to calculate a feedforward current instruction i*ref and a feedforward motor position instruction θ*m to be input into the feedback controller FB(s). A positioning error caused by a non-linear element (non-linear spring property, relative rotational synchronization component, and non-linear friction) of the strain wave gearing is compensated for by the feedforward linearization compensator.
US09075395B2 Timepiece pallet lever with optimised horns
Pallet lever for an escapement mechanism including a balance with a pin of a given pin radius and oscillating over a given radius of gyration, this pallet lever including two horns for cooperation with a pin of this type. These horns are symmetrical to each other relative to a median plane passing through a pallet lever pivot axis, and each includes a concave inner profile over a first radius of curvature greater than or equal to the sum of this radius of gyration and this pin radius, this concave inner profile being adjacent to a convex outer profile over a second radius of curvature less than or equal to the difference between this radius of gyration and this pin radius.
US09075394B2 Flexible escapement mechanism with movable frame
An escapement mechanism for a timepiece movement or timepiece including at least one balance and at least one escape wheel. A transmission of impulses between the balance and the escape wheel is achieved by a single-piece flexible mechanism including at least one feeler spindle cooperating with the escape wheel or, respectively, with the balance, and the single-piece, flexible mechanism is connected by at least one flexible blade to a fixed structure of the timepiece, or respectively to the escape wheel.
US09075392B2 Flexible resilient hand
Resilient timepiece hand including a first drive pipe integral with a flexible strip.The resilient hand is in a single-piece and this flexible strip includes a first flexible segment between this first pipe and a first tip which is at a variable distance from this first pipe according to stresses applied to this flexible strip.Timepiece display mechanism including a resilient hand of this type. The mechanism includes a first drive pinion for driving this first pipe of this resilient hand about a pivot axis, and a second pinion or a cam for stressing this resilient hand to vary the position of at least one this tip of this resilient hand with respect to this pivot axis.Watch including a display movement of this type.
US09075390B2 Process cartridge capable of accurately positioning developer carrying member and photosensitive drum
A process cartridge includes a developing cartridge, drum cartridge, and end member. The developing cartridge and drum cartridge include first and second driving force receiving units, respectively. The second receiving unit is disposed on the same side on which the first receiving unit in an axis direction of photosensitive drum. A developing frame is movable within a prescribed distance in the axis direction relative to a photosensitive drum frame. The photosensitive drum is movable in the axis direction relative to the drum frame within a predetermined distance. The end member includes a drum contact surface, developing frame contact surface, and external member contact surface. When the first and second receiving units are in a predetermined state, a photosensitive drum contacts to the drum contact surface, the developing frame contacts to the developing frame contact surface, the external member contact surface contacts to an external member.
US09075383B2 Image forming apparatus
An image forming apparatus includes an image bearing member, an image forming unit for forming a toner image and a toner pattern comprising toner not to be transferred onto a recording medium for adjustment of a density of toner on a surface of the image bearing member, a nip forming member contacting the surface of the image bearing member to form a transfer nip therebetween, a transfer bias applicator for applying a transfer bias in which an alternating current component and a direct current component are superimposed to transfer the toner image onto the recording medium in the transfer nip, a first cleaning device to mechanically remove toner remaining on the image bearing member after passing through the transfer nip. The transfer bias applicator applies a charge eliminating bias to remove charge from toner in the toner pattern when the toner pattern passes through the transfer nip.
US09075376B2 Automatic document feeder and image forming apparatus including the same
According to an embodiment, an ADF includes: a sheet-feed cover unit; a switch unit to be switched on or off depending on whether the sheet-feed cover unit is open or closed and including a first terminal, to which a first voltage, by which a driving motor is driven, is input, and a second terminal connected to the driving motor; and an open/close-detection circuit unit that includes a first switch circuit and a second switch circuit. The first switch circuit is switched on or off based on a threshold voltage that is larger than a second voltage to be generated in the driving motor by a jammed-document removing motion and smaller than the first voltage. The open/close-detection circuit unit detects that the sheet-feed cover unit is closed when the second switch circuit is energized, but detects that the sheet-feed cover unit is open when the second switch circuit is de-energized.
US09075371B2 Image forming apparatus
An image forming apparatus includes a rotatable belt; a cleaning blade contacted to the belt; image forming stations including a first station and a second station for forming first and second adjustment toner images, respectively, on the belt, the second station being disposed downstreammost position, and the first station being disposed upstream of the second station and downstream of the cleaning blade with respect to a rotational direction of the belt; a detector for detecting the first image and the second image, at a position opposing the belt; a changing portion for changing image forming conditions of the stations on the basis of a result of detection of the detector, a controller for controlling the stations such that in a region between adjacent ones of the same images in a continuous image formations, the second image reaches the blade before the first image reaches the blade.
US09075367B2 Image forming apparatus
An image forming apparatus includes a first image forming unit that uses a first toner for a first toner image and a second image forming unit that uses a second toner for a second toner image, and transfers, a controller that controls the first image forming unit and the second image forming unit, having two control modes, a first print mode in which the first toner image and the second toner image are continuously transferred to the transfer medium; and a second print mode in which the first toner image is transferred thereafter, the transfer medium, on which the first toner image is formed, is passed through the second image forming unit without the second image forming unit performing image transfer. The controller performs control in such a manner that an amount of the first toner in the first print mode is greater than that in the second print mode.
US09075364B2 Suspended particle collecting member and image forming apparatus including the same
A collecting member that collects suspended particles vaporized from wax includes a flow path and a space, where gas passes along the flow path. The space is connected to the flow path through an opening formed in the flow path. The space extends upstream with respect to a direction of travel of the gas that passes along the flow path. By virtue of this structure, dew condensation in a fixing unit is suppressed while efficiently collecting the suspended particles.
US09075363B2 Method and apparatus for reducing release agent transfer to a pressure member in a fuser
An approach is provided for reducing release agent transfer to a pressure member in a fuser. The approach involves causing, at least in part, at least a first sheeted substrate and a second sheeted substrate to be advanced through a fuser in a process direction. The approach also involves determining the presence of the first sheeted substrate at a fusing position. The approach further involves causing, at least in part, a fuser member and a pressure member to engage to form a fusing nip at the fusing position based, at least in part, on the determined presence of the first sheeted substrate at the fusing position. The approach additionally involves determining the first sheeted substrate has advanced through the fusing nip. The approach further involves causing, at least in part, the fuser member and the pressure member to disengage.
US09075360B2 Image heating apparatus
An image heating apparatus includes an image heating roller, an excitation coil provided outside of the roller for causing electromagnetic induction heat generation in the roller, a magnetic core, provided opposed to the roller with the excitation coil therebetween, for directing a magnetic flux produced by the excitation coil to the roller, a retracting mechanism for retracting the magnetic core from the excitation coil, coil holder for holding a side of the excitation coil adjacent to the roller, and first and second pressing members for pressing the excitation coil against the holder in each of longitudinally opposite portions that are outside beyond the magnetic core.
US09075357B2 Fixing device and image forming apparatus including same
A fixing device includes a rotatable fixing member to rotate while contacting an unfixed image; a pressure member to form a fixing nip with the fixing member; a heating member having a plurality of heating elements divided in a direction perpendicular to a conveyance direction of a sheet; a heat performance sensor to detect heating performance of each heating element of the heating member, and a controller to control the heating member. The controller controls each heating element independently such that a temperature of a portion of the fixing member corresponding to a blank area becomes lower than the temperature of a portion of the fixing member corresponding to an image area; and controls the temperature to be maintained at each heating element based on the detection result of the heating performance of each heating element detected by the heat performance sensor.
US09075353B2 Image forming apparatus having endless belt contact member
An image forming apparatus includes a transfer rotary member for forming a primary transfer portion between a photosensitive drum and an intermediate transfer belt. The transfer rotary member includes multiple rotary members whose diameters are different, into which the transfer rotary member is divided in a direction orthogonal to a moving direction of the intermediate transfer belt. The transfer rotary member is arranged so as to contact a surface of the intermediate transfer belt on a side opposite to a surface with which multiple photosensitive drums come into contact at the primary transfer portions, on a downstream side in the moving direction of the intermediate transfer belt with respect to a contact portion between the intermediate transfer belt and each photosensitive drum, the intermediate transfer belt being arranged so as to protrude on the photosensitive drum side.
US09075340B2 Developing roller
An inventive developing roller is adapted for use in an electrophotographic image forming apparatus. The developing roller includes a roller body. At least an outer peripheral surface of the roller body is formed from a rubber composition containing a base rubber. The base rubber contains a styrene butadiene rubber in a proportion of not less than 10 mass % and not greater than 70 mass % based on the overall amount of the base rubber. The outer peripheral surface of the rubber body has a surface roughness Ra of not less than 0.78 μm and not greater than 1.8 μm.
US09075337B2 Image forming apparatus and method using electrophotographic two-component development
According to one embodiment, an image forming apparatus includes an image bearing member on which an electrostatic latent image is formed by exposure, an exposing device including a plurality of light sources and a plurality of lenses, which are provided along a longitudinal direction of the image bearing member, and configured to radiate light on the image bearing member, and a developing device arranged at a fixed distance apart from the image bearing member and configured to develop, according to application of a direct-current bias, the electrostatic latent image formed on the image bearing member into a visible image using a two-component developer.
US09075334B2 Image forming apparatus determining charged potential fluctuation of photosensitive member
An image forming apparatus includes: a photosensitive member driven rotary; a charging unit configured to charge the photosensitive member; an exposure unit configured to form an electrostatic latent image on the photosensitive member by exposing the charged photosensitive member; a detecting unit configured to detect a current flowing between the charging unit and the photosensitive member; and a correction unit configured to determine a fluctuation location and a fluctuation amount of the charged potential of the photosensitive member, according to a fluctuation amount of the current detected by the detecting unit, and to correct an amount of light irradiated by the exposure unit onto the photosensitive member at the fluctuation location of the charged potential according to the determined fluctuation amount of the potential.
US09075332B1 Semi-contact bias charge roller
There is described an a bias charge roller including an electrically conductive core and an outer layer axially supported on the core. The outer layer includes a continuous raised pattern above a non-contact surface wherein the continuous raised pattern includes a contact surface having a height of from about 10 microns to about 40 microns above the non-contact surface. The outer layer transitions from the contact surface to the non-contact surface over a minimum linear distance of 100 microns or greater. The contact surface is configured to contact a charge-retentive surface of an electrophotographic imaging member so as to charge the charge-retentive surface.
US09075329B2 Emulsion aggregation toners with improved particle size distribution
A method of making toner particles that includes forming a pre-shell aggregate mixture by adding to a reactor pre-shell aggregate ingredients, the includes a latex resin, the reactor having a mixing impeller and a heating jacket; performing pre-shell aggregation while homogenizing the pre-shell aggregate mixture with the impeller at an initial tip speed to form pre-shell aggregates; decreasing the tip speed to a second tip speed when the pre-shell aggregates reach a target intermediate average particle diameter; and then decreasing the tip speed at one or more intervals between when the pre-shell aggregates reach the target intermediate average particle diameter and when the pre-shell aggregates reach a target final average particle diameter so that the tip speed meets the following formula: tip speed=1644ft/min−204.9(ft/(min*μm))*average particle diameter(μm).
US09075325B2 High speed charge transport layer
A photoreceptor includes a substrate a charge generating layer disposed on the substrate and a charge transport layer disposed on the charge generating layer, the charge transport layer includes a hole transport molecule, a fluorinated diol, and a leveling agent, the charge transport layer is substantially free of a polymer binder and catalyst, and has a post-discharge voltage of less than about 10 volts.
US09075324B2 Beam positioning and pointing
A beam pointing and positioning system includes a first lens, movable in a first plane perpendicular to a nominal optical axis, which receives and positions a light beam. The system also includes a second lens, movable in a second plane perpendicular to the nominal optical axis, which receives and points the positioned light beam. The system is thereby capable of directing the light beam to a desired location at a desired angle. The system may also include a beam splitter that receives, transmits, and reflects the pointed light beam, one or more sensors that receive the reflected light beam, and a controller coupled to the sensor(s) and first and second lenses. The controller may control the positioning of the first and second lenses based on beam position and pointing data and/or signals received from the sensor(s). A method of positioning and pointing a light beam is also presented.
US09075323B2 Exposure device, photo-mask, and method for manufacturing liquid crystal display
The present invention is directed to an exposure apparatus and photo-mask, and method for manufacturing liquid crystal display using the same. An exposure apparatus according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention provides an exposure apparatus which includes: a first photo-mask comprising a plurality of transmission parts; and a second photo-mask comprising a plurality of transmission parts, the first photo-mask and the second photo-mask comprising an overlapping region where the first photo-mask and the second photo-mask are partially overlapped, wherein at least one transmission part included in at least one of the first photo-mask and the second photo-mask in the overlapping region comprises a semi-transmission section, and a transmittance of the semi-transmission section is greater than or equal to 0% and less than 100%.
US09075314B2 Photomask blank, photomask, and method for manufacturing photomask blank
A photomask blank for producing a photomask to which an ArF excimer laser light is applied. The blank includes a light transmissive substrate on which a thin film having a multilayer structure is provided. The thin film has a light-shielding film in which a back-surface antireflection layer, a light-shielding layer and a front-surface antireflection layer are laminated in this order. The light-shielding layer comprises chromium and nitrogen, and the chromium content is more than 50 atomic %. The front-surface antireflection layer and the back-surface antireflection layer each has an amorphous structure made of a material comprising chromium, nitrogen, oxygen and carbon. The chromium content ratio of the front-surface antireflection layer and the back-surface antireflection layer is 40 atomic % or less. A first sum of nitrogen content and oxygen content of the back-surface antireflection layer is less than a second sum of nitrogen content and oxygen content of the front-surface antireflection layer.
US09075310B2 Pattern forming method, multi-layered resist pattern, multi-layered film for organic solvent development, resist composition, method for manufacturing electronic device, and electronic device
A pattern forming method contains: (i) a step of forming a first film on a substrate by using a first resin composition (I), (ii) a step of forming a second film on the first film by using a second resin composition (II) different from the resin composition (I), (iii) a step of exposing a multi-layered film having the first film and the second film, and (iv) a step of developing the first film and the second film in the exposed multi-layered film by using an organic solvent-containing developer to form a negative pattern.
US09075306B2 Chemically amplified negative resist composition and patterning process
A chemically amplified negative resist composition comprises a polymer comprising recurring hydroxystyrene units and recurring styrene units having electron withdrawing groups substituted thereon. In forming a pattern having a fine feature size of less than 0.1 μm, the composition exhibits a high resolution in that a resist coating formed from the composition can be processed into such a fine size pattern while the formation of bridges between pattern features is minimized.
US09075299B2 Light source with wavelength conversion device and filter plate
A light source device uses a wavelength down conversion material for absorbing an excitation light and generating a converted light, and a color filter for filtering the converted light to generate a different color light as output. The wavelength conversion material is a yellow or green phosphor which absorbs blue or UV light and generates a yellow or green converted light, which has a sufficiently wide spectrum to cover some of the red color region. The color filter only allows the red component of the converted light to be output. This system is more energy efficient than using a red phosphor. This light source may be implemented as a moving phosphor wheel having multiple segments, one of which being the yellow or green phosphor with the corresponding color filter, the other segments being used to generate other colored lights such as green and blue lights.
US09075294B2 Projector with a lens cover that is smaller in the open state than in the closed state
A projector modulates a luminous flux emitted from a light source in accordance with image information and projects the modulated light by a projection lens. The projector includes an exterior housing that houses the projection lens and has a projection opening through which the light exiting from the projection lens passes and a lens cover that opens and closes the projection opening, the lens cover has a first cover and a second cover, and the first cover and the second cover are configured so that they open and close the projection opening by being slid and are stacked and housed in an open state in which the projection opening is opened.
US09075292B1 Trail camera camouflage cover
A method for camouflaging a trail camera in a variety of natural environments by sequentially using a variety of interchangeable camouflaged covers. Also disclosed is a camouflaged cover for a trail camera, and a kit containing a plurality of variously camouflaged covers for camouflaging a trail camera in a variety of natural environments.
US09075289B2 Roll-tilt ball turret camera having coiled data transmission cable
In one embodiment, a ball turret assembly for supporting a camera includes a first shaft rotatable about a first axis relative to a first fixed point, the first shaft having an axially-extending interior region in communication with an exterior of the first shaft by way of a first exit port. A first guide disposed at least partially circumferentially on the first shaft proximally to the first exit port is provided, and a cable extends along the interior region of the first shaft and exits the first shaft at the first exit port, the cable looping at least partially around the first shaft and affixed at the first fixed point.
US09075288B2 Pan, tilt, zoom camera system for cooling electronics
A pan tilt zoom (PTZ) camera system implements a disc valve system to enhance the cooling of electronics. The disc valve system includes a static camera base and a rotating camera pan bearing. The static camera base has static base vent slots arranged along the perimeter of the static camera base. The rotating camera pan bearing includes at least one pan bearing vent slot that aligns with the static base vent slots. During rotation of the rotating camera pan bearing, the at least one pan bearing vent slot aligns with the static base vent slots enabling movement of air over electronics of the (PTZ) camera system.
US09075286B2 Electrically adjustable optical diffusion for luminaires
An electrically adjustable optical diffusion panel for use in film or video production having a frame, diffusion material affixed to the frame, where the transparency of the material is continuously and variably changeable between a substantially transparent state and a substantially opaque state in response to an electric potential applied to electrodes of the material and a controller and battery. The electrically adjustable diffusion panel eliminates the need for manually changing diffusion papers or other filters and provides a continuous range of selectable levels of transparency/diffusion.
US09075283B2 Polarization-entangled photon pair source and method for the manufacture thereof
An entangled photon pair source including: a quantum emitter having a ground state, two degenerate states that have one elementary excitation and different spins, and a state having two elementary excitations; a first optical cavity, wherein the quantum emitter is inserted; and a second optical cavity coupled with the first cavity. The geometry of the first and second cavities, and force of coupling thereof, are selected such that the whole formed by both coupled cavities has a first pair of polarization-degenerate modes, that are resonant with transitions between the state having two elementary excitations and the two degenerate states having one elementary excitation from the quantum emitter, and a second pair of polarization-degenerate modes that are resonant with transitions between the degenerate states, having one elementary excitation, and the ground state.
US09075280B2 Components and methods for use in electro-optic displays
An electro-optic display comprises, in order, a backplane comprising a plurality of pixel electrodes; a layer of a solid electro-optic medium; a main adhesive layer; and at least one of a light-transmissive protective layer and a light-transmissive electrically-conductive layer. The electro-optic layer may be in direct contact with the backplane or separated therefrom by a thin auxiliary layer of adhesive. The main adhesive layer may be colored to provide a color filter array. An inverted front plane laminate useful in forming such a display comprises the same layers except that the backplane is replaced by a release sheet. The display combines good low temperature performance and good resolution at higher temperatures.
US09075278B2 Liquid crystal display device
According to one embodiment, a liquid crystal display device includes a first substrate including a first wiring line, a second wiring line located on a first interlayer insulation film, a pixel electrode located on the first interlayer insulation film and including a main pixel electrode and a first sub-pixel electrode, a first common electrode located on a second interlayer insulation film and including a first main common electrode opposed to the second wiring line and a first sub-common electrode opposed to the first wiring line and the first sub-pixel electrode, a second substrate including a second common electrode, and a liquid crystal layer held between the first substrate and the second substrate.
US09075277B2 Liquid crystal display having a wide viewing characteristic and capable of fast driving
A charge sharing style wide viewing liquid crystal display to which fast driving pre-charging technology may be applied to is disclosed. A charge sharing style wide viewing liquid crystal display is provided such that charge sharing is carried out between a liquid crystal capacitor and a charge sharing capacitor that correspond to the nth gate line when the mth (m≧n+2) gate line is turned on.
US09075276B2 Electro-optical device and electronic apparatus with a pixel that transmits light with peak transmittances in the wavelength ranges of red, green, and blue
A liquid crystal device as an electro-optical device of a present application example includes an element substrate, a translucent pixel electrode disposed on the pixel, a storage capacitor which is provided between the element substrate and the pixel electrode and has a pair of translucent electrodes disposed to face each other through a dielectric layer, and a third interlayer insulator film provided between the storage capacitor and the pixel electrode, and each of film thicknesses of the pixel electrode, a first electrode and a second electrode as the pair of translucent electrodes and the third interlayer insulator film are set so that a spectral distribution of light which transmits the pixel has peak transmittances corresponding to each of wavelength ranges of at least red, green and blue.
US09075273B2 Thin film transistor array panel and manufacturing method thereof
A thin film transistor array panel includes: an substrate; a gate line and a gate pad portion disposed on the substrate; a gate insulating layer disposed on the gate line and the gate pad portion; a data line and a data pad portion disposed on the gate insulating layer; a gate assistance pad portion disposed at a position corresponding to the gate pad portion; a first insulating layer disposed on the data line and removed at the gate pad portion and the data pad portion; a first field generating electrode disposed on the first insulating layer; a second insulating layer disposed on the first field generating electrode and removed at the gate pad portion and the data pad portion; and a second field generating electrode disposed on the second insulating layer. The assistance gate pad portion and the gate insulating layer include a contact hole exposing the gate pad portion.
US09075269B2 Array substrate and liquid crystal display device including the same
An array substrate includes a substrate; gate lines over the substrate along a first direction; data lines over the substrate along a second direction and crossing the gate lines to define pixel regions; a thin film transistor at each crossing portion of the gate and data lines; an insulating layer covering the thin film transistor and having a flat top surface; a common electrode on the insulating layer all over the substrate; a common line on the common electrode; a passivation layer on the common line; and a pixel electrode on the passivation layer in each pixel region and connected to the thin film transistor, the pixel electrode including electrode patterns, wherein the passivation layer has a step height at a top surface of the passivation layer due to the plurality of common lines.
US09075266B2 Device for prebaking alignment film by using temperature-controllable pin to support substrate and method thereof
The present invention relates to a device for prebaking an alignment film by using a temperature-controllable pin to support a substrate and a method thereof. The device includes heater that prebakes a substrate from an underside of the substrate, a plurality of temperature-controllable pins for upward supporting the substrate, and a temperature control system. The temperature-controllable pins are coupled to the temperature control system and each of the temperature-controllable pins is independently controlled of temperature thereof by the temperature control system so as to uniformly heat a site of the substrate that is supported by the temperature-controllable pin and a periphery of the supported site. The device for prebaking alignment film by using temperature-controllable pin to support substrate and a method thereof according to the present invention alleviate non-uniform heating of a surface of glass substrate and thus alleviate pin mura.
US09075265B2 Liquid crystal display device and method of manufacturing the same
In a method of forming a liquid crystal display device, a black matrix is disposed on a substrate including a switching element formed thereon, a color filter is disposed on the switching element, a pixel electrode is electrically connected to the switching element, and a first alignment layer is disposed on the pixel electrode, to form a first substrate. A second substrate including a second alignment layer is formed. At least one of the first alignment layer and the second alignment layer includes a reactive mesogen. A liquid crystal layer is interposed between the first substrate and the second substrate. A light is irradiated onto the second substrate to provide pretilt angles of liquid crystal molecules of the liquid crystal layer.
US09075262B2 Outdoor display apparatus
An outdoor display apparatus includes a housing having an opening, an inlet port and an outlet port, a transparent member disposed in the opening, a liquid crystal display panel module disposed in the housing so that the liquid crystal display panel module is spaced from the transparent member to define a gap therebetween, the liquid crystal display panel module being provided at a front thereof with a liquid crystal display panel, a circuit disposed at a rear of the liquid crystal display panel module, an optical film disposed inside the transparent member at a position corresponding to the liquid crystal display panel, and an air circulation device to distribute air introduced through the inlet port so that the distributed air passes through the gap between the transparent member and the liquid crystal display panel and through the circuit and is discharged through the outlet port.
US09075261B2 Chip heat dissipation structure and liquid crystal display having thereof
A chip heat dissipation structure and a liquid crystal display having thereof are provided. The chip heat dissipation structure includes a metal heat dissipation member contacted with a chip. The metal heat dissipation member is connected to a metal protection cover of a printed circuit board. The metal heat dissipation member is perpendicular to the metal protection cover. The present invention also relates to a liquid crystal display. The chip heat dissipation structure and a liquid crystal display having thereof of the present invention have a good heat dissipation effect.
US09075260B2 Touch display apparatus
A touch display apparatus including a display panel, a touch device layer, a first flexible circuit board and a second flexible circuit board is provided. The display panel includes a color filter substrate, an active device array substrate and a display medium layer. The active device array substrate is disposed above the color filter substrate. The display medium layer is disposed between the color filter substrate and the active device array substrate. The touch device layer is disposed on an outer surface of the active device array substrate. The first flexible circuit board is disposed on the outer surface and an edge of the active device array substrate and is electrically connected to the touch device layer. The second flexible circuit board is disposed on an inner surface opposite to the outer surface and the edge of the active device array substrate.
US09075258B2 Display unit and display device
A display unit according to the present invention (100a) includes at least one display panel (10) and at least one light-transmitting cover (20) disposed on a viewer's side of the at least one display panel; the at least one light-transmitting cover includes a planar portion (24) having a viewer-side surface (24a) which is a plane, and a curved surface portion (22) adjoining the planar portion along a first axis, the curved surface portion (22) having a viewer-side surface (22a) which is a curved surface; and the planar portion includes a slope portion such that the distance between a viewer-side surface and a rear surface decreases away from the curved surface portion along the first axis. According to the present invention, a direct-viewing type display unit and display device which are thinner than conventional are provided.
US09075251B2 Integrated photonic devices with reduced sensitivity to external influences
A photonic device having a wavelength-dependent transmission or filter characteristic, comprising: a Splitter Polarization Rotator (SPR) configured to receive an input wave having a first polarization and outputting a first wave having the first polarization and a second wave having a second polarization different from the first polarization; first and second waveguide arms connected to the SPR configured to propagate the first and second waves respectively; and a Polarization Rotator and Combiner for combining the propagated first and second waves; wherein the dimensions of the first waveguide arm and the second waveguide arm are selected to cancel the influence of an external effect on the wavelength-dependent characteristic. Another aspect of the invention relates to a method for reducing the sensitivity of said integrated photonic device, comprising splitting a polarized light beam, propagating light waves of different through two waveguide arms of specific dimensions, and recombining them.
US09075250B2 Delayed optical logic gates for boolean algebra
A system, method, and apparatus for delayed optical logic gates based on slow light and enhanced nondegenerate four-wave mixing processes, where a single or multiple delayed optical routers are utilized for dark resonance interactions in which two-color lasers interact with a three-level nonlinear optical medium comprised of two ground states and one excited state through the nondegenerate four-wave mixing processes. The delayed optical logic mechanism is based on combination of single or multiple dark resonance-induced two-photon coherence conversion via slow light phenomenon. The two-photon coherence induced on the ground states is optically detected via nondegenerate four-wave mixing processes. The nondegenerate four-wave mixing generation is enhanced owing to dark resonance or electromagnetically induced transparency. The delayed optical logic gates have potential to keep up ultra-high-bandwidth optical information processing using relatively slow electronic processing devices.
US09075244B2 Stereoscopic image display device
Disclosed is a stereoscopic image display device which has a thin thickness and an enhanced aesthetic appearance. The stereoscopic image display device includes an image display panel, a 3D optical panel, and a panel support member. The image display panel temporally or spatially divides and displays a left-eye image and a right-eye image. The 3D optical panel is coupled to the image display panel, and divides the left-eye image and the right-eye image. The panel support member is coupled to the image display panel with an adhesive member to surround the image display panel. The 3D optical panel is supported by the panel support member such that the upper surface and the side surface of the 3D optical panel are exposed to the outside of the stereoscopic image display device.
US09075243B2 Method and system for ultrashort pulse fiber delivery using higher order mode fiber
Embodiments of the present invention describe systems and methods for delivering ultrashort laser pulses through an optical fiber system with higher order mode fiber output and without pre-chirping. In one embodiment of the present invention, an all-fiber delivery system comprises a mode-locked solid-state or fiber laser for generating laser pulses in the 0.2 μm to 1.3 μm wavelength range, a single mode fiber with normal dispersion, and a long-period-grating mode converter, and a higher order mode fiber with anomalous dispersion, wherein the all-fiber delivery system is free of bulk optics, and propagates laser pulses without pulse pre-chirping, and wherein higher order mode output beam from the all-fiber delivery system comprises pulses at less than about 200 femtoseconds.
US09075239B2 Optical system for forming optical path of oblique angle and method thereof
An optical system is used in a microscope which is provided to observe a sample or in a light emitting device which applies a beam of light such as a laser beam onto a sample. The optical system can form an oblique path of light so that without shifting the sample or the position of the eyes of the observer (or the position of a light source of the light emitting device), the observer can observe (in the case of the light emitting device, it can apply light onto) not only a vertical top side the sample but also a front, rear, left or right side of the sample, or the position of a portion of the sample to be observed (in the case of the light emitting device, a portion onto which light is applied) can be varied.
US09075237B2 Beam-combiner for fiber-delivered laser-beams of different wavelengths
A beam combiner for combining laser-beams of different colors along a common path includes a directing-prism for each of the laser-beams and one combining-prism. The directing-prisms are arranged to transmit the laser-beams to the combining-prism. The directing-prisms and the combining-prism are configured and arranged with respect to each other such that the directing-prism transmits the beams along the common path.
US09075233B2 Optical cell with wavelength compensator
An optical cell may include a first port coupled to a second port by an optical path. The optical cell may also include a compensator disposed in the optical path. The compensator may be rotatable about an axis. Rotating the compensator about the axis may vary a distance that the optical path passes through the compensator thereby changing the optical path length of the optical path.
US09075232B2 Image display apparatus
An image display apparatus is provided. The image display apparatus including an image forming device; an optical device on which a light is incident from the image forming device, in which the light is guided, and from which the light is emitted, wherein the optical device includes a light guide plate, a reflecting element, and a half mirror, wherein the following condition is satisfied: 2t·tan θ−2≦L≦2t·tan θ+2 where an axial direction of the light guide plate is the Y-direction, a normal direction of the light guide plate is the X-direction, L (unit: mm) represents an effective length of the reflecting element in the Y-direction, t represents the thickness of the light guide plate, and θ represents the incident angle of the light, which is totally reflected in the light guide plate, on an inner surface of the light guide plate.
US09075229B2 Cover of head up display and housing including the cover
A cover of a head up display and a housing including the head up display cover are provided. The cover of a head up display includes a cover member and a cover panel that is coupled with a lower portion of the cover member and has an elliptical reflecting curved surface that reflects external incident light. The cover and the housing allow the viewing region of a driver to be enlarged while satisfying reflection conditions which reflect external incident light under the elliptical cross-section of a driver's eye.
US09075226B2 Multi-state IMOD with RGB absorbers
A display apparatus may include a multi-state IMOD, such as an analog IMOD (AIMOD), a 3-state IMOD (such as having a white state, a black state and one colored state) or a 5-state IMOD (such as having a white state, a black state and three colored states). The multi-state IMOD may include a movable reflective layer and an absorber stack. The absorber stack may include a first absorber layer having a first absorption coefficient and a first absorption peak at a first wavelength, a second absorber layer having a second absorption coefficient and a second absorption peak at a second wavelength, and a third absorber layer having a third absorption coefficient and a third absorption peak at a third wavelength. The first, second and third absorption layers may have absorption levels that drop to nearly zero at the center of each neighboring absorber layer's absorption peak.
US09075225B2 Microscopy imaging
Among other things, an imaging device has a photosensitive array of pixels, and a surface associated with the array is configured to receive a specimen with at least a part of the specimen at a distance from the surface equivalent to less than about half of an average width of the pixels.
US09075220B2 Optical fiber module with mounting block for securing an optical fiber connector
An optical fiber module includes a plate having a first side, a second side and at least one through opening, a plurality of connection elements at the first side, and a mounting block at the second side that is configured to secure, relative to the plate, at least one second fiber optic connector which has a longitudinal axis, an end, a wide portion and an end portion between the wide portion and the end. The mounting block includes a channel having an enlarged portion configured to receive the wide portion of the at least one second fiber optic connector, and the channel is configured to permit the insertion of the at least one second fiber optic connector in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis while preventing the removal of the at least one second fiber optic connector in any direction parallel to the longitudinal axis.
US09075219B2 Connector device and method for producing a furcated fibre optic cable
A connector device (203) for connecting a first fiber optic cable (1;101) to a plurality of second fiber optic cables (9′;220). The connector device (203) includes a casing (205) having a first opening (204) arranged to receive the first fiber optic cable (1;101), a second opening (206) arranged to receive the plurality of second fiber optic cables (9′;222), a cavity that connects the first and second openings (204, 206) such that a fiber connection can be made between the first fiber optic cable (1;101) and the plurality of second cables (9′;220), and first and second parts (205a, 250b) that are connectable to each other; and securing means for securing the casing (205) to the first fiber optic cable (1;101) and to the plurality of second fiber optic cables (9′;220) such that when secured thereto the casing (205) transfers tensile loads between the cables (1;101, 9′;220), wherein the securing means includes a furcation member (209) that is arranged to receive and support the plurality of second fiber optic cables (9′;220). A method for producing a furcated fiber optic cable is also disclosed.
US09075216B2 Fiber optic housings configured to accommodate fiber optic modules/cassettes and fiber optic panels, and related components and methods
Fiber optic housings configured to accommodate fiber optic modules/cassettes and fiber optic panels are disclosed. In one embodiment, a fiber optic apparatus is provided and comprised of a fiber optic housing and one or more removable panel clips. Each of the one or more removable panel clips includes at least one receptacle configured to receive an insert of a fiber optic panel to support the fiber optic panel in the fiber optic housing. In another embodiment, a fiber optic shelf configured to be supported in a fiber optic housing is provided. The fiber optic shelf comprises a mounting surface and one or more removable panel clips attached to the mounting surface that each includes at least one receptacle configured to receive an insert of a fiber optic panel to support the fiber optic panel in the mounting surface. Related components and methods are also disclosed.
US09075215B2 Duplex cables and zipcord cables and breakout cables incorporating duplex cables
Interconnect cables utilize bend-insensitive fibers and relatively large free space areas in the cable jackets to reduce bend-induced delta attenuation. Tensile yarns can be included as strain-relief components, but can be relatively loosely packed in order to inhibit bend-induced attenuation.
US09075212B2 Stretchable fiber optic cable
A fiber optic cable includes a strength member, tubes coupled to the strength member, and optical fibers. The strength member provides tensile and anti-buckling strength. The tubes have a cavity into which the optical fibers are packed. The cable is stretchable in that the optical fibers experience less than 0.5 dB/km of increased average attenuation at 1310 nanometers wavelength when the cable experiences strain of up to 2×10−3.
US09075209B2 Optical module having additional lens for different connection
An optical module (30) includes an optical waveguide (31), a first ferrule and a second ferrule (32, 33) connected with the optical waveguide. The optical waveguide includes 2N optical channels (313). The first and the second ferrules includes N mirrors (34, 36) and N+1 lenses (35, 37). N of the 2N optical channels optically couple the N mirrors (34) of the first ferrule with N of the N+1 lenses (37) of the second ferrule, and the remaining N of the 2N optical channel couple N of the N+1 lenses (35) of the first ferrule with the N mirrors (36) of the second ferrule.
US09075208B2 Method for assembling a photoelectric conversion module
A method of assembling a photoelectric conversion module is disclosed. The photoelectric conversion module includes a circuit board on which are mounted a light emitting element, a light receiving element, and an optical element optically connected to the light emitting element and the light receiving element. The light emitting element is positioned on the circuit board based on a positioning mark formed on the circuit board beforehand. The light receiving element and the optical element are positioned based on a position of a light emission point of the light emitting element.
US09075203B2 Fiber optic adapter block
A fiber optic adapter block is disclosed. The fiber optic adapter block includes at least three fiber optic adapters provided in a stacked arrangement extending widthwise in a longitudinal direction, wherein every other adapter of the at least three fiber optic adapters is staggered in a front to back direction with respect to an adjacent adapter such that front ends of the every other adapter of the at least three fiber optic adapters are aligned at a first depth and a front end of the adjacent adapter is at a second depth that is different than the first depth.
US09075202B2 Mobile device and optical imaging lens thereof
Present embodiments provide for a mobile device and an optical imaging lens thereof. The optical imaging lens comprises four lens elements positioned sequentially from an object side to an image side. Through controlling the convex or concave shape of the surfaces and/or the refracting power of the lens elements and designing an equation, the optical imaging lens shows better optical characteristics and the total length of the optical imaging lens is shortened.
US09075200B2 Birefringent crystal polarization beam splitter assembly
An optical apparatus, comprising a polarization beam splitter (PBS) comprising a birefringent crystal having a front-end and a back-end, and an optical rotator positioned on the back-end of the birefringent crystal. Included is an optical apparatus comprising a PBS comprising a birefringent crystal and an optical rotator, wherein the PBS is configured to receive a multiplexed optical signal comprising a first polarized optical signal and a second polarized optical signal, wherein the second polarized optical signal is orthogonal to the first polarized optical signal, separate the first polarized optical signal from the second polarized optical signal using the birefringent crystal, and rotate the second polarized optical signal using the optical rotator such that the rotated second polarized optical signal is parallel to the first polarized optical signal. The PBS may further comprise only one lens, wherein the lens is positioned on the front-end of the birefringent crystal.
US09075195B2 Color filter
A color filter including a substrate, a plurality of single film filter units and a plurality of multi-film filter units is provided. The substrate has a first region and a second region. The single-film filter units are respectively disposed on the substrate and within the first region. The multi-film filter units are respectively disposed on the substrate and within the second region. When a white beam is projected on the color filter, the single-film filter units and the multi-film filter units reflect a plurality of color beams. The multi-film filter units include a plurality of first multi-film filter units. When the white beam is projected on the first multi-film filter units, the first multi-film filter units reflect a first color beam.
US09075194B2 Method for manufacturing holographic bi-blazed grating
A method for manufacturing a holographic bi-blazed grating. Two blaze angles of the holographic bi-blazed grating are respectively a blaze angle A and a blaze angle B, and oblique-ion beam etching is performed on two grating areas A and B respectively by using a photoresist grating (12) and a homogeneous grating (14) as masks, thereby implementing different controls on the two blaze angles, and avoiding a secondary photoresist lithography process. Because when manufacturing the homogeneous grating (14), the time of positive ion beam etching can be controlled, so that the groove depth of the homogeneous grating (14) is controlled accurately. In addition, because the homogeneous grating mask and a substrate (10) are made of the same material, etching rates of the two are consistent, so that the accurate control of blaze angles can be implemented.
US09075192B2 Optical waveguide splitter
An optical waveguide splitter with a symmetric splitting power ratio having one input port and two output ports, includes a substrate and one or more vertical waveguide layers deposited thereon or diffused thereinto, and optionally one or more cladding layers deposited upon the waveguide layer(s). The waveguide layers and optionally one or more cladding layer together and optionally with the substrate form a profile of the refractive index that supports the propagation of light in a plane substantially parallel to the substrate. On both sides of the input port, the waveguide sidewalls terminate at a depth deeper than the location of the peak intensity of the beam transporting propagating light energy within the input port, and the sidewalls on both sides of each output port terminate at a depth shallower than the location of the peak intensity of the beam transporting the majority light energy within each output port.
US09075190B2 Optical device with a piezoelectrically actuated deformable membrane shaped as a continuous crown
An optical device with a deformable membrane (2) including an anchor area (2.3) on a support (1) entrapping a liquid or gas fluid, a central area (2.1) reversibly deformable from a rest position, actuating means for moving the fluid (4) biasing the membrane (2) into an intermediate area between the anchor area (2.3) and the central area (2.1), the actuating means include a piezoelectric continuous crown accommodating several actuators (5.1), this crown surrounding the central area (2.1), the actuating means (5) being anchored to the membrane (2) in at least the intermediate area (2.2), the actuating means (5) and the membrane (2) to which they are anchored, forming at least one piezoelectric bimorph (B), the actuating means (5) radially contracting or extending upon actuation so as to generate a movement of said fluid (4) from the intermediate area (2.2) to the central area (2.1) of the membrane (2) or vice versa, aiming at deforming the central area (2.1) with respect to its rest position.
US09075188B2 Method of making lightweight, single crystal mirror
A method of making a mirror from a single crystal blank may include fine grinding top and bottom surfaces of the blank to be parallel. The blank may then be heat treated to near its melting temperature. An optical surface may be created on an optical side of the blank. A protector may be bonded to the optical surface. With the protector in place, the blank may be light weighted by grinding a non-optical surface of the blank using computer controlled grinding. The light weighting may include creating a structure having a substantially minimum mass necessary to maintain distortion of the mirror within a preset limit. A damaged layer of the non-optical surface caused by light weighting may be removed with an isotropic etch and/or repaired by heat treatment. If an oxide layer is present, the entire blank may then be etched using, for example, hydrofluoric acid. A reflecting coating may be deposited on the optical surface.
US09075186B2 Free form lens with refractive index variations
This invention provides for method of forming an ophthalmic lens with at least one portion of the lens including multiple voxels of polymerized crosslinkable material. In addition, the present invention provides for apparatus for generating an ophthalmic lens with one or more areas of different refractive indexes and a surface with one or both of a raised area and a depressed area.
US09075185B2 Hole-assisted optical fiber
A hole-assisted optical fiber includes a core portion and a cladding portion that includes an inner cladding layer, an outer cladding layer, and holes formed around the core portion. A diameter of the core portion is 3 μm to 9.8 μm, a relative refractive index difference of the core portion relative to the outer cladding layer is 0.11% to 0.45%, an outside diameter of the inner cladding layer is 53 μm or less, a relative refractive index difference of the inner cladding layer relative to the outer cladding layer is a negative value, −0.30% or more, a diameter of each hole is 2.4 μm to 4.0 μm, a hole occupancy rate is 17% to 48%, a bending loss at a wavelength of 1625 nm when bent at a radius of 5 mm is 1 dB/turn or less, and a cut-off wavelength is 1550 nm or less.
US09075184B2 Compact edge illuminated diffractive display
There is provided a projection display device comprising: a light source, an SBG device comprising a multiplicity of separately SBG elements sandwich between transparent substrate to which transparent electrodes have been applied. The substrates function as a light guide. A least one transparent electrode comprises plurality of independently switchable transparent electrodes elements, each electrode element substantially overlaying a unique SBG element. Each SBG element encodes image information to be projected on an image surface. Light coupled into the light guide, undergoes total internal reflection until diffracted out to the light guide by an activated SBG element. The SBG diffracts light out of the light guide to form an image region on an image surface when subjected to an applied voltage via said transparent electrodes.
US09075182B2 Camera module and spacer of a lens structure in the camera module
A camera module and a fabrication method thereof are provided. The camera module includes a lens structure and an image sensor device chip disposed under the lens structure. The lens structure includes a transparent substrate and a lens disposed on the transparent substrate. A spacer is disposed on the transparent substrate to surround the lens, wherein the spacer contains a base pattern and a dry film photoresist. The method includes forming a base pattern on a carrier and attaching a dry film photoresist on the carrier. The dry film photoresist is planarized by a lamination process and then patterned to form a spacer. A transparent substrate having a plurality of lenses is provided. The spacer is stripped from the carrier, attaching on the transparent substrate to surround each of the lenses, and then bonded with image sensor device chips.
US09075181B2 Backlight assembly and display apparatus having the same
A display apparatus with at least two light guide plates, each including a light incident surface and a light exiting surface, the light guide plates being spaced apart from each other so as to form a gap therebetween. The display apparatus also has a light source disposed adjacent to at least one side portion of the light guide plates to emit light to the light incident surface, a display panel positioned to receive light from the light exiting surfaces to facilitate display of an image, and a diffusion member. The diffusion member covers the gap, so as to diffuse light directed toward the display panel.
US09075180B2 Light guide plate and manufacturing method thereof and backlight module using same
The present invention provides a light guide plate and a manufacturing method thereof and a side-edge backlight module using the light guide plate. The light guide plate includes a plurality of reflective separation walls arranged therein. The reflective separation walls divide the light guide plate into a plurality of sections. The reflective separation walls have surfaces forming mirror surfaces. The light guide plate includes reflective separation walls respectively arranged between independent sections to have light traveling from an independent section toward the reflective separation wall reflected back into the independent section and thus confined within the independent section. Thus, brightness sectioning and independent control of sectionalized brightness of the light guide plate can be realized and improved light isolation result can be achieved. With such a method, manufacturing a light guide plate comprising reflective separation walls is easy, has improved yield rate, is mass producible, and is of low cost.
US09075176B2 Light guide plate and planar lighting device
The light guide plate has a first light incidence surface and a second light incidence surface which are provided on end sides of a light exit surface and are orthogonal to each other. The light guide plate includes two or more layers superposed on each other in a direction substantially perpendicular to the light exit surface and containing scattering particles at different particle concentrations. The thicknesses of the two or more layers in the direction substantially perpendicular to the light exit surface change so that a combined particle concentration of the light guide plate has, in directions perpendicular to the light incidence surfaces, a first local maximum value located on sides closer to the light incidence surfaces and a second local maximum value located at positions farther from the light incidence surfaces than positions of the first local maximum value and being larger than the first local maximum value.
US09075175B2 Light source module
A light source module including a light guide plate, a light-collecting structure and a light emitting device is provided. The light guide plate has a first light emitting surface, a bottom surface, a first light incident surface connecting with the bottom surface and the first light emitting surface, and an optical microstructure unit. The optical microstructure unit includes at least two optical microstructures. Each optical microstructure has a recessing part and a protruding part on the bottom surface. The light-collecting structure has a second light emitting surface connecting with the first light incident surface, a second light incident surface and a reflecting surface connecting with the second light emitting surface and the second light incident surface. A sectional line obtained by sectioning the reflecting surface along a first reference plane includes a first parabola. The reference plane is parallel to the first light emitting surface.
US09075171B2 Surface light source device and liquid crystal display device
In a surface light source device, a light guide plate includes a light introduction part that traps the light emitted from a point light source and incident from a light incident surface, and a light guide plate body. The light introduction part includes an inclined surface inclined from a surface in a portion having a thickness larger than that of the light guide plate body toward an end of the surface of the light guide plate body. The light guide plate body includes a directivity conversion pattern located between an effective lighting region of the light guide plate body and the light introduction part. The directivity conversion pattern converts a directivity direction of the light from the light introduction part to the effective lighting region such that an angle formed by the directivity direction and a direction perpendicular to the light incident surface decreases when viewed from above.
US09075165B2 Hydrodynamic depressor for marine sensor streamer arrays
A hydrodynamic foil system for a sensor streamer array includes at least two tow ropes each coupled at one end to a survey vessel and at the other end to a paravane. the paravanes configured to provide lateral outward force as the vessel and paravanes are moved through a body of water. A spreader cable is coupled to each of the paravanes. A plurality of laterally spaced apart sensor streamers coupled at forward ends thereof to the spreader cable. A plurality of foils is disposed on the spreader cables. The foils configured to provide hydrodynamic lift in a vertical direction as the spreader cables are moved through the water.
US09075161B2 Critical reflection illuminations analysis
The illumination/imaging of a theorized target horizon that is below a theorized velocity contrast horizon where the velocity contrast horizon may represent the bottom of a salt dome by assessing the path of seismic energy for critical angle reflection/refraction and tabulates the successful paths and unsuccessful paths. For some subsurface locations, seismic energy will not reach the surface above the velocity contrast due to the shapes of the velocity contrast horizon and target horizon and the velocity model through which the studied waves propagate. Displays may be prepared and used for understanding illumination/imaging of the geology for drilling, reacquisition, and reprocessing to elicit information about subsurface geology that may have been overlooked or ignored. Future surveys avoid expensive surveying which cannot obtain useful seismic data as determined by the velocity contrast for the target locations due to the shapes of the horizons and the velocity model.
US09075155B2 Optical fiber based downhole seismic sensor systems and methods
Various optical fiber-based seismic monitoring system embodiments include a light source that drives an optical fiber positioned within a borehole. At least one light sensor analyzes Rayleigh backscattered light to obtain an acoustic signal for each of multiple points along the borehole. One or more processors operate to determine microseismic event direction, distance, and/or intensity based at least in part on phase information of said acoustic signals. The acoustic signal cross-correlations, semblances, or phase-sensitive similarity measures can be determined as a function of scanning direction to accurately determine the relevant microseismic event information. The optical fiber may be positioned in the cemented annulus of a cased borehole having a shape that extends along more than one dimension (e.g., an L-shaped borehole).
US09075154B2 Stationary star-shaped antenna method for manipulating focused beamformed, shaped fields and beamsteered electromagnetic signal from subtel sedimentary stratigraphic formations deep in the earth
A method for electromagnetic geophysical surveying according to one aspect of the invention includes disposing a plurality of electromagnetic receivers in a selected pattern above an area of the Earth's subsurface to be evaluated. An electromagnetic source is repeatedly actuated proximate the electromagnetic receivers. Signals generated by the receivers, indexed in time with respect to each actuation of the at least one electromagnetic energy source, are recorded. The recorded signals are processed to generate an image corresponding to at least one point in the subsurface. The processing includes stacking recordings from each receiver for a plurality of actuations of the sources and beam steering a response of the receivers such that the at least one point is equivalent to a focal point of a response of the plurality of receivers.
US09075151B2 Detector array and method of manufacturing the same
A detector unit for a detector array includes a photo sensor array, a light guide, and a plurality of scintillator elements formed unitarily with the light guide, the scintillator elements configured to emit absorbed energy in the form of light, the light guide being configured to transmit the light received from at least one of the scintillator elements to a photo sensor, the light guide and the plurality of scintillators being formed from the same material, an area covered by the photo sensors being smaller than an area covered by the scintillator elements and a number of photo sensors being less than a number of scintillator elements. A detector array and a method of manufacturing a detector array are also described herein.
US09075146B1 Wireless, motion and position-sensing, integrating radiation sensor for occupational and environmental dosimetry
Described is a radiation dosimeter including multiple sensor devices (including one or more passive integrating electronic radiation sensor, a MEMS accelerometers, a wireless transmitters and, optionally, a GPS, a thermistor, or other chemical, biological or EMF sensors) and a computer program for the simultaneous detection and wireless transmission of ionizing radiation, motion and global position for use in occupational and environmental dosimetry. The described dosimeter utilizes new processes and algorithms to create a self-contained, passive, integrating dosimeter. Furthermore, disclosed embodiments provide the use of MEMS and nanotechnology manufacturing techniques to encapsulate individual ionizing radiation sensor elements within a radiation attenuating material that provides a “filtration bubble” around the sensor element, the use of multiple attenuating materials (filters) around multiple sensor elements, and the use of a software algorithm to discriminate between different types of ionizing radiation and different radiation energy.
US09075133B2 Object detection and tracking support system, control method, and program
An object detection and tracking support system includes a setting unit, a transmission level obtaining unit, a propagation loss function estimating unit that, based on various information relating to a transmitter and a receiver stored in the setting unit, calculates the propagation loss as a propagation loss function expressed as a function of the distance and the direction viewed from the receiver, a target strength obtaining unit that, in regard to an object of object information stored in the setting unit, extracts a target strength of the object from an external database; and a detection signal level function estimating unit that, based on transmission level information obtained by the transmission level obtaining unit, a propagation loss function calculated by the propagation loss coefficient estimating unit, and a target strength extracted by the target strength obtaining unit, determines a detection signal level function, for display on an external display unit.
US09075126B2 Ground location inertial navigation geopositioning system (groundlings)
A ground location inertial navigation geopositioning system (GROUNDLINGS) end receiver (GER) can include a GROUNDLINGS module. The GROUNDLINGS module can be configured to generate a GER position using a time of flight (TOF) of a downlink pseudo-random noise (PRN) signal and a Doppler shift of at least one of the downlink PRN signal and a downlink tone signal on a common frequency carrier. The downlink PRN signal sent from a GROUNDLINGS satellite (GRS) to the GER can include a copy of an uplink PRN signal from a ground located transceiver (GLT) to the GRS. When used, the downlink tone signal can be received from the GRS.
US09075121B2 System and method for rotating angle velocity encoding, phase contrast magnetic resonance imaging
A system and method is provided for performing a phase-contrast imaging process to generate an image of a subject using a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) system. With the MRI system, a set of reference projections of a subject is acquired having both stationary spins and non-stationary spins and a set of velocity-sensitive projections is acquired from the ROI that is encoded to be velocity sensitive along multiple directions per readout. For each projection of the set of velocity-sensitive projections, directional velocity components are determined and a phase-contrast image of the ROI is generated using the set of reference projections, the set of velocity-sensitive projections, and the directional velocity components.
US09075120B2 Shimming device for superconducting magnet
A shimming device sequentially records a history of conducted shim setting, momentarily dynamically calculates compensation values corresponding to the record by the aid of a characteristic function, and dynamically controls the shim coil by the aid of the compensation values thus obtained, to thereby compensate magnetic field fluctuation of a superconducting magnet which is attributable to the setting of the shim, and stabilizes the magnetic field in an NMR superconducting magnet. This device includes a shim setting recorder (230) that records a set value of the shim, a type of set operation, the operation amount of the setting, and a time at which the setting is conducted, in association with each other for each setting; generating compensation function supply (210) that supplies a generating compensation function that is a function having the type of the operation, the operation amount, and the amount of time as factors, and is set so as to approximately compensate a magnetic field fluctuation attributable to individual setting; compensation value computer (240) that refers to the generating compensation function supply (210) and the shim setting recorder (230), computes a compensation value at the time t by the aid of a compensation function that is configured by, and outputs the computation result; a shim coil driver (300) that drives the shim coil (400) by the aid of a sum of the compensation value obtained by the compensation value computer (240), and a latest set value.
US09075116B2 Method and circuit for testing a power producer or a power consumer which can be connected to a power grid
Described is a method for testing a power producer or a power consumer that can be connected to a power grid. The power producer or the power consumer is connected to a terminal point. A converter circuit is provided for influencing a voltage that is present at the terminal point. The converter circuit is connected via a transformer to the terminal point. In at least one embodiment, a series connection is configured with a choking coil and a first switch and connected to the terminal point. In a time coordinated manner, the first switch is initially closed and the converter circuit is influenced such that the voltage has the desired value at the terminal point, whereupon the second switch is then opened.
US09075115B2 Systems and methods for monitoring the health of an electrical system
The subject matter herein generally relates to electrical generators and motors, and more specifically, to electrical turbo-generators. In an embodiment, an electrical system includes a circuit. The circuit includes one or more rotating power delivery assemblies comprising a plurality of sliding surfaces that deliver power to a rotating load. The circuit also includes one or more radio frequency current transformers (RFCTs) that measure radio frequency (RF) signals corresponding to arcing events in the one or more rotating power delivery assemblies. The electrical system also includes a processor that receives the measurements from the one or more RFCTs and determines a health value of the circuit based, at least in part, on the received measurements.
US09075113B2 Linking module with IC and core TAP output enable leads
IEEE 1149.1 Test Access Ports (TAPs) may be utilized at both IC and intellectual property core design levels. TAPs serve as serial communication ports for accessing a variety of embedded circuitry within ICs and cores including; IEEE 1149.1 boundary scan circuitry, built in test circuitry, internal scan circuitry, IEEE 1149.4 mixed signal test circuitry, IEEE P5001 in-circuit emulation circuitry, and IEEE P1532 in-system programming circuitry. Selectable access to TAPs within ICs is desirable since in many instances being able to access only the desired TAP(s) leads to improvements in the way testing, emulation, and programming may be performed within an IC. A TAP linking module is described that allows TAPs embedded within an IC to be selectively accessed using 1149.1 instruction scan operations.
US09075108B2 Method and a device for preventing signal-edge losses
A method for marking a signal edge, which has been removed from at least one decimated binary signal after the decimation of an associated binary signal, within the decimated binary signal, establishes successive signal portions of the respective binary signal, in each case with a number of sampled values corresponding to a decimation factor of the decimation. It detects a signal edge removed through decimation from each signal portion if the number of signal edges determined in each signal portion of the respective binary signal is greater than one. Then, the sampled values of the respective decimated binary signal are determined through decimation of the sampled values of the associated binary signal with the decimation factor, and the removed signal edge at the sampling time of the decimated binary signal which corresponds to the signal portion of the associated binary signal with the signal edge removed through decimation is marked.
US09075105B2 Passive probing of various locations in a wireless enabled integrated circuit (IC)
Methods and apparatus are disclosed for wirelessly communicating among integrated circuits and/or functional modules within the integrated circuits. A semiconductor device fabrication operation uses a predetermined sequence of photographic and/or chemical processing steps to form one or more functional modules onto a semiconductor substrate. The functional modules are coupled to an integrated waveguide that is formed onto the semiconductor substrate and/or attached thereto to form an integrated circuit. The functional modules communicate with each other as well as to other integrated circuits using a multiple access transmission scheme via the integrated waveguide. One or more integrated circuits may be coupled to an integrated circuit carrier to form Multichip Module. The Multichip Module may be coupled to a semiconductor package to form a packaged integrated circuit.
US09075101B2 Method and apparatus for testing a semiconductor device
The present disclosure provides a method for testing a semiconductor device. The method includes providing a testing unit and an electronic circuit coupled to the testing unit and applying a first electrical signal to the testing unit. The method includes sweeping a second electrical signal across a range of values, the second electrical signal supplying power to the electronic circuit, wherein the sweeping is performed while a value of the first electrical signal remains the same. The method includes measuring a third electrical signal during the sweeping, the measured third electrical signal having a range of values that each correspond to one of the values of the second electrical signal. The method includes adopting an optimum value of the second electrical signal that yields a minimum value of the third electrical signal. The method includes testing the testing unit while the second electrical signal is set to the optimum value.
US09075093B2 Device for measuring electromagnetic field intensity
The invention relates to gas-discharge electrical instrumentation technology. The device for measuring electromagnetic field intensity comprises a measuring instrument for recording the glow of a gas discharge and a gas-discharge chamber that is formed between electrodes 1 and 2 separated by a dielectric 3. The electrode 1 is cylindrical, while the electrode 2 is in the form of a disk. The electrodes 1 and 2 are coupled to an electrical voltage source, wherein a capacitive element in the form of a pair comprising an antenna 5 and a connection to ground 6 is incorporated into the line coupling the cylindrical electrode 1 to the electrical voltage source. A capacitor 7 with variable capacitance is incorporated into the line coupling the cylindrical electrode 1 to the antenna 5. The technical result consists in providing the possibility of detecting a useful signal in a wide frequency range.
US09075091B2 Sensor devices and methods for use in sensing current through a conductor
Sensor devices and related methods disclosed. One example sensor device includes a non-magnetic substrate defining an aperture structured to receive a conductor therein, a coil including a plurality of coil turns wound about at least a portion of the substrate, a first shield between the substrate and the plurality of coil turns, a second shield disposed proximate to the plurality of coil turns, opposite the first shield, such that the plurality of coil turns is disposed between the first shield and the second shield, and a filter element coupled to at least one of the first and second shields.
US09075088B2 Power quality monitoring apparatus and method thereof
The present invention includes a calculating unit for calculating an absolute value of an applied commercial voltage, an accumulating unit for accumulating the absolute value of the applied commercial voltage per a constant period to output, an extracting unit for sampling an absolute value accumulative maximum value of the commercial voltage for each period and a determining unit for determining a quality of the commercial voltage by using the absolute value accumulative maximum value of the sampled commercial voltage. It has an advantage that the power quality can be monitored at high speed.
US09075087B2 Voltage detection circuit, ECU, automobile with ECU
According to an embodiment, the threshold value generation unit generates a setting voltage and converts the setting voltage to a first current. One end of the first resistor is connected to a detection terminal. When a voltage applied to the detection terminal is greater than or equal to a predetermined factor times the voltage of the higher voltage source, the detection unit causes a constant detection terminal input current to flow from the detection terminal to the first resistor. When the voltage at the detection terminal is less than the predetermined factor times the voltage of the higher voltage source, a higher voltage source voltage is outputted to a detection output terminal, while the voltage at the detection terminal is greater than or equal to the predetermined factor times the voltage of the higher voltage source, a lower voltage source voltage is outputted to the detection output terminal.
US09075078B2 Microelectromechanical accelerometer with wireless transmission capabilities
In various embodiments, a microelectromechanical system may include a mass element; a substrate; a signal generator; and a fixing structure configured to fix the mass element to the substrate; wherein the mass element is fixed in such a way that, upon an acceleration of the microelectromechanical system, the mass element can be moved relative to the substrate in at least two spatial directions, and wherein a signal is generated by the movement of the mass element by means of the signal generator.
US09075077B2 Resonant sensing using extensional modes of a plate
A device or system that incorporates teachings of the present disclosure may include, for example, a resonant structure having a plate, a mass and a set of electrodes. The plate can have an extensional mode at a frequency when excited. The set of electrodes can be used to measure an acceleration of the mass when the acceleration of the mass changes the frequency of the plate. Other embodiments are disclosed.
US09075066B2 CST1, DCC1, IFITM1 or MELK as markers for diagnosing stomach cancer
The present invention relates to a biomarker for gastric cancer, CST1 (cysteine proteinase inhibitor, type 2 family), DCC1 (Defective in sister chromatid cohesion homolog 1), IFITM1 (interferon induced transmembrane protein 1) or MELK (maternal embryonic leucine zipper kinase). More particularly, the present invention relates to a diagnostic composition for gastric cancer comprising an agent measuring the expression level of CST1, DCC1, IFITM1 or MELK, a kit comprising the composition, a method for detecting the marker, and a method for screening a therapeutic agent for gastric cancer using the marker.
US09075064B2 Method for decreasing radioresistance and growth, metastasis and infiltration of cancer cells through regulating expression or activity of TM4SF4 in non-small cell lung cancer
The present invention relates to a pharmaceutical composition or an anticancer agent for preventing and treating non-small cell lung cancer, containing a substance for regulating the expression or activity of transmembrane 4 L six family member 4 (TM4SF4). More specifically, the present invention relates to a use of a substance for regulating the expression or activity of TM4SF4 as an anticancer drug or an anticancer agent with respect to non-small cell lung cancer, wherein it was ascertained that it is possible to decrease the growth, metastasis, and infiltration of adenocarcinoma cells and radioresistance by decreasing the expression of TM4SF4 in adenocarcinoma among non-small cell lung cancers and to decrease the growth, metastasis, and infiltration of the cells and radioresistance by increasing the expression of TM4SF4 in other non-small cell lung cancers except adenocarcinoma.
US09075063B2 Methylation analysis to determine the presence of cancer cells
The present invention relates to a method for determination of the presence or absence of cancer cells in a biological sample or a method for determination of the prognosis of a colorectal cancer patient based on a result obtained by extracting DNA from a biological sample and analyzing methylation status of a marker gene in the DNA.
US09075061B2 Method for determining the estrogen receptor status of breast cancer
The present invention relates to a method for determining the estrogen receptor status of patients suffering from breast cancer. The present invention also aims to provide methods and devices for predicting the response of patients diagnosed with breast cancer to specific medicaments. More specifically, the present invention provides methods which measure kinase activity by studying phosphorylation levels and profiles in samples obtained from patients diagnosed with breast cancer.
US09075058B2 Coelenterazine analogues and coelenteramide analogues
Coelenterazine analogs with different luminescence properties from conventional ones and coelenteramide analogs with different fluorescence properties from conventional ones have been desired. The invention provides coelenterazine analogs modified at the 8-position of coelenterazine and coelenteramide analogs modified at the 2- or 3-position of coelenteramide.
US09075055B2 Device and associated methods for performing luminescence and fluorescence measurements of a sample
An apparatus for measuring the luminescence and the fluorescence of a sample, comprising: a light tight optics box capable of receiving a pipette tip containing a sample; an optical sensor located within the optics box and capable of being disposed in both a luminescence reading position and a fluorescence reading position; an excitation light fiber optic bundle and a sample transmission fiber optic bundle; an excitation light assembly that projects excitation light onto a first terminus end of the excitation light fiber optic bundle; and an in-line filter located along the sample transmission fiber optic bundle.
US09075051B2 Fluid mixing and delivery in microfluidic systems
The specification generally discloses systems and methods for mixing and delivering fluids in microfluidic systems. The fluids can contain, in some embodiments reagents that can participate in one or more chemical or biological reactions. Some embodiments relate to systems and methods employing one or more vent valves to controllably flow and/or mix portions of fluid within the microfluidic system. Advantageously, fluid control such as a sequence of fluid flow and/or a change in flow rate, can be achieved by opening and closing one or more vent valves and by applying a single source of fluid flow (e.g., a vacuum) operated at a substantially constant pressure. This can simplify the operation and use of the device by an intended user.
US09075048B2 Assay apparatus and its control method and reaction container for assay
In an assay apparatus for performing an assay related to a specimen received from the outside thereof based on a reaction between the specimen and a reagent by using a reaction container that holds the reagent, the apparatus includes a detection means that detects a state in which an assay has ended before completion, and a mark providing means that provides a predetermined mark for the reaction container when the state in which the assay has ended before completion is detected by the detection means.
US09075047B2 Fluidic connectors and microfluidic systems
Fluidic connectors, methods, and devices for performing analyses (e.g., immunoassays) in microfluidic systems are provided. In some embodiments, a fluidic connector having a fluid path is used to connect two independent channels formed in a substrate so as to allow fluid communication between the two independent channels. One or both of the independent channels may be pre-filled with reagents (e.g., antibody solutions, washing buffers and amplification reagents), which can be used to perform the analysis. These reagents may be stored in the channels of the substrate for long periods amounts of time (e.g., 1 year) prior to use.
US09075045B2 Cell-based detection of APF through its interaction with CKAP4 for diagnosis of interstitial cystitis
An assay system designed to detect a protein biomarker in urine that is diagnostic for interstitial cystitis (IC). The presence of a 9 amino acid glycopeptide, antiproliferative factor (APF), in urine is unique to patients with IC. Urine samples from patients who exhibit symptoms consistent with IC are added to the assay system. Binding of APF to the cytoskeletal associated protein 4 (CKAP4) is positive for the presence of APF in urine and diagnostic for IC. The diagnostic system is a significant and surprising advance in diagnosis of IC and has commercial applications relevant to women and men who suffer from symptoms consistent with IC.
US09075041B2 Methods for generating pH/ionic concentration gradient near electrode surfaces for modulating biomolecular interactions
Methods of modulating the binding interactions between a (biomolecular) probe or detection agent and an analyte of interest from a biological sample in a biosensor having a multisite array of test sites. In particular, the methods modulate the pH or ionic concentration gradient near the electrodes in such biosensor. The methods of modulating the binding interactions provide a biosensor and analytic methods for more accurately measuring an analyte of interest in a biological sample.
US09075039B2 Container and cap for a biological specimen
A container for collecting a biological specimen is provided that includes a peripheral wall extending from a base. The container further includes a longitudinal tower disposed within the container. The tower forms a partition within the container to form at least a first chamber and a second chamber therein, wherein the first and second chambers are in fluid communication with one another. In addition, the container include an insert disposed within the container opposite the base, the insert comprising at least a first opening and a second opening. The second opening provides access to the second chamber and is further configured to engage a specimen collecting device to leave a portion of the specimen collecting device within the second chamber. The first opening provides access to the first chamber and is further configured to receive a syringe therein for accessing the biological specimen. Associated systems and methods are also provided.
US09075038B2 Integrated methods for corrosivity, ageing and fingerprinting determination, as well as diagnosis, decontamination, depolarisation and detoxification of oils
The methods of the invention are aimed toward the determination of corrosivity, ageing, fingerprinting and contaminants, as well as the functional diagnosis, decontamination, depolarization and detoxification of oils and technical fluids, such as mineral insulating, natural and/or synthetic esters, lubricants, hydraulic fluids, diathermic fluids and technical fluids in general, used in apparatuses and equipment, such as electric transformers, reactors, bushings, switches and turbines, for the generation, transmission, distribution and use of power.
US09075037B2 Micro-solid phase extraction of haloacetic acids
The micro-solid phase extraction of haloacetic acids is a procedure that extracts haloacetic acids from aqueous solution using iron-modified rice husk silica as the stationary phase or sorbent. Rice husks provide an excellent source of silica. The sorbent is prepared by incinerating the husks to produce a powder that is treated with 1.0 M nitric acid for 24 hours to produce rice husk silica. The silica is washed with base, cetyltrimethylammonium bromide is added, and then titrated with a 10% Fe3+ solution to pH 5, which forms a gel. The gel is aged, filtered, dried, and calcined to produce a nitrate-free iron-modified rice husk sorbent. The sorbent is then packaged in porous, heat-sealed polypropylene membrane envelopes and used for extraction of HAAs from water. The HAA analytes are desorbed by ultrasonication in methanol for analysis and quantification.
US09075031B2 Apparatus for gripping and holding diagnostic cassettes
The apparatus is a mechanism for acquiring, holding, and enabling the movement of a cassette-shaped article, such as a reagent or sample cassette, which may be part of an automated diagnostic analyzer, such that the apparatus can tolerate a significant degree of cassette misplacement and/or misalignment during the acquisition maneuver. The mechanism furthermore enables simultaneous two-dimensional movement of the acquiring gripper jaws such that the inter-jaw distance decreases at the same time as movement in an upward vertical direction is provided while the jaw movement is adequately smooth so as not to disturb the physical state of the sample.
US09075029B2 System and method for automatically adjusting gas sensor settings and parameters
A system and method are disclosed including an automatic sensor excitation voltage adjustment feature, a multi-range concentration feature, and a single calibration feature. The automatic sensor excitation voltage adjustment feature may include a transmitter having an associated microprocessor that provides an initial voltage to an associated sensor. The sensor may include a microprocessor, and as the voltage changes a correction signal may be relayed from the sensor microprocessor to the transmitter microprocessor. The correction signal may be used by the transmitter microprocessor to adjust the voltage applied to the sensor. The multi-range concentration sensor feature may include an amplifier associated with the sensor/microprocessor to create gain settings used to optimize sensor resolution by changing a gain value associated with the sensor. This, in turn, enables a single sensor to be used for a variety of different concentration ranges, as desired by a user. The single calibration feature enables a sensor to be calibrated at a single gas concentration value, and thereafter be used for a variety of different concentration range applications. Other embodiments are described and claimed.
US09075027B2 Apparatus and methods for detecting defects in vertical memory
Disclosed are methods and apparatus for inspecting a vertical memory stack. On an inspection tool, incident light having a first wavelength range is used to detect defects on a surface of the vertical memory stack. On the inspection tool, incident light having a second wavelength range is used to detect defects on both the surface and throughout a depth of the vertical memory stack. The defects detected using the first and second wavelength range are compared to detect defects only throughout the depth of the vertical memory stack, excluding defects on the surface.
US09075024B1 Methods for determining wear volume of a tested polycrystalline diamond element
Embodiments of methods are disclosed for characterizing a tested polycrystalline diamond (“PCD”) element, such as a PDC cutting element. In an embodiment, a method for characterizing a tested PCD element is disclosed. An initial volume of a PCD element is measured using a coordinate measuring machine (“CMM”). A workpiece is cut with the PCD element so that the PCD element develops a wear flat. A post-cut volume of the PCD element is measured after cutting the workpiece using the CMM. A wear volume of the PCD element is determined at least partially based on the post-cut volume and the initial volume of the PCD element.
US09075022B2 Synthetic rope, fiber optic cable and method for non-destructive testing thereof
A non-destructive test method for evaluating a synthetic rope made of strength member elements includes: treating at least one strength member element to be detectable by a magnetic NDT device, incorporating the at least one treated strength member element into the rope, scanning the synthetic rope with the magnetic NDT device, and obtaining magnetic flux leakage or eddy current output data from the magnetic NDT device, wherein the output data relates to a condition of the synthetic rope. A synthetic rope or cable is thereby made to be capable of being inspected by a magnetic flux leakage or eddy current non-destructive test (NDT) method.
US09075021B2 Methods and systems for monitoring content of coating solutions using automated titration devices
A method for monitoring content of a coating solution for coating components includes supplying a tank with the coating solution containing a concentration of a solvent and a concentration of a coating material. The concentration of the coating material is tested using a titration process. The titration process may include controllably contacting a volume of the coating solution with a reagent solution to form a mixture and using a color processing device to obtain input color data of the mixture to detect an end-point of the titration process. One or both of the solvent and the coating material is supplied to the tank based on an amount of coating solution contacted with the reagent solution when the color processing device detects an input color data signaling the end-point of the titration process.
US09075018B2 Microwave trigger metal-enhanced chemiluminescence (MT MEC) and spatial and temporal control of same
The present invention relates to a method of imaging structures and features using plasmonic emissions from metallic surfaces caused by chemiluminescence based chemical and biological reactions wherein imaging of the reactions is enhanced by the use of microwave energy and further enhanced by using metallic geometric structures for spatially and temporally controlling the biological and chemical reactions.
US09075017B2 Optical-waveguide sensor chip, method of manufacturing the same, method of measuring substance, substance-measuring kit and optical-waveguide sensor
An optical-waveguide sensor chip includes an optical waveguide having a first substance immobilized on the surface thereof, the first substance being specifically reactive with an analyte substance, and fine particles dispersed on the optical waveguide and having a second substance immobilized on the surface thereof, the second substance being specifically reactive with the analyte substance.
US09075014B2 pH-responsive fluorescent false neurotransmitters and their use
This invention relates to compounds having the following structure: wherein Y is O, X is O, bond α is absent and bond β is present, or Y is H, X is CH, bond α is present, and bond β is absent; atom Z is a carbon and bonds χ, δ and γ are present, or atom Z is a nitrogen and bonds χ, δ and γ are absent, or atom Z is a nitrogen and bonds χ and δ are present and γ is absent. R1, R2, R3, R4, R5, and R6 are various substituents as described in the specification.
US09075012B2 Photoluminescence-based quality control for thin film absorber layers of photovoltaic devices
A time-resolved photoluminescence-based system providing quality control during manufacture of thin film absorber layers for photovoltaic devices. The system includes a laser generating excitation beams and an optical fiber with an end used both for directing each excitation beam onto a thin film absorber layer and for collecting photoluminescence from the absorber layer. The system includes a processor determining a quality control parameter such as minority carrier lifetime of the thin film absorber layer based on the collected photoluminescence. In some implementations, the laser is a low power, pulsed diode laser having photon energy at least great enough to excite electron hole pairs in the thin film absorber layer. The scattered light may be filterable from the collected photoluminescence, and the system may include a dichroic beam splitter and a filter that transmit the photoluminescence and remove scattered laser light prior to delivery to a photodetector and a digital oscilloscope.
US09075011B2 Irregular excitation of optical sensors
A material is excited with light whose intensity is modulated according to a modulation signal. The modulation signal includes multiple transitions between at least two intensity levels, with times of at least a first contiguous sequence of the transitions being selected according to an irregular pattern. A response of the material to the excitation is detected.
US09075006B2 Measurement device and feature measurement method of object to be measured employing same
A measurement device that includes a device main unit including at least one cavity for accommodating an analyte containing a specimen and an aperture array structure including a plurality of apertures extending therethrough in a direction perpendicular to a principal surface thereof. The aperture array structure is fixed such that part or all of the aperture array structure is positioned in the cavity.
US09075003B2 Lighting device, image analysis device, image analysis method, and evaluation method
There is provided a lighting device for capturing a facial image of a subject by an image capturing unit in plural different near-infrared regions of light including a housing in which a substantially spherical space is formed by a spherical surface, the housing accommodating an entire face part of the subject; at least two light sources arranged at positions bilaterally symmetrical with the subject on the spherical surface to emit the light to light the substantially spherical space; an image capturing unit capturing an image of the entire face part; a first filter installed in front of the light source to block ultraviolet rays and infrared rays from the emitted light; a second filter installed in front of the lens to adjust an amount of the light, and a third filter installed in front of the lens to perform band-pass filtering corresponding to the different near-infrared regions.
US09075001B2 Spectroscopy system using waveguide and employing a laser medium as its own emissions detector
An intracavity laser absorption infrared spectroscopy system for detecting trace analytes in vapor samples. The system uses a spectrometer in communications with control electronics, wherein the control electronics contain an analyte database that contains absorption profiles for each analyte the system is used to detect. The system can not only detect the presence of specific analytes, but identify them as well. The spectrometer uses a hollow cavity waveguide that creates a continuous loop inside of the device, thus creating a large path length and eliminating the need to mechanically adjust the path length to achieve a high Q-factor. In a preferred embodiment, the laser source may serve as the detector, thus eliminating the need for a separate detector.
US09075000B2 Biosensor, biosensor chip and biosensor device
A biosensor includes a working electrode 101, a counter electrode 102 opposing the working electrode 101, a working electrode terminal 103 and a working electrode reference terminal 10 connected to the working electrode 101 by wires, and a counter electrode terminal 104 connected to the counter electrode 102 by a wire. By employing a structure with at least three electrodes, it is possible to assay a target substance without being influenced by the line resistance on the working electrode side.
US09074999B2 Biosensor, biosensor chip and biosensor device
A biosensor includes a working electrode 101, a counter electrode 102 opposing the working electrode 101, a working electrode terminal 103 and a working electrode reference terminal 10 connected to the working electrode 101 by wires, and a counter electrode terminal 104 connected to the counter electrode 102 by a wire. By employing a structure with at least three electrodes, it is possible to assay a target substance without being influenced by the line resistance on the working electrode side.
US09074997B2 Biosensor, biosensor chip and biosensor device
A biosensor includes a working electrode 101, a counter electrode 102 opposing the working electrode 101, a working electrode terminal 103 and a working electrode reference terminal 10 connected to the working electrode 101 by wires, and a counter electrode terminal 104 connected to the counter electrode 102 by a wire. By employing a structure with at least three electrodes, it is possible to assay a target substance without being influenced by the line resistance on the working electrode side.
US09074996B2 Liquid component sensor
A liquid component sensor includes: an infrared light source; a detection cell including: two substrates made of material for penetrating an infrared light therethrough and stacked each other; a passage for flowing liquid arranged between facing surfaces of the substrates; and a detection portion for detecting the liquid provided by at least a part of the passage; a spectrometer for dispersing light penetrating the detection cell; and a light detector for detecting dispersed light. Each substrate includes outside and facing surfaces, so that two substrates provide four surfaces totally. The detection cell further includes a filter for passing the infrared light having a predetermined wavelength selectively. The filter is disposed on at least one of four surfaces at a predetermined position, which corresponds to at least the detection portion.
US09074988B2 Fiber optic sensing system with hydrogen flush
A system and method for controlling hydrogen concentration in optical sensing systems in subsurface wells. In an exemplary system the downhole optical fiber sensors are positioned within nested conduits and a controlled concentration hydrogen gas is flowed in a first direction through the first conduit, and flowed in a second direction through the annulus, wherein the second direction is opposite to the first direction.
US09074986B2 System and method for reducing high density artifacts in computed tomography imaging
An imaging system includes a rotatable gantry for receiving an object to be scanned, a generator configured to energize an x-ray source to generate x-rays, a detector positioned to receive the x-rays that pass through the object, and a computer. The computer is programmed to obtain knowledge of a metal within the object, scan the object using system scanning parameters, reconstruct an image of the object using a reconstruction algorithm, and automatically select at least one of the system scanning parameters and the reconstruction algorithm based on the obtained knowledge.
US09074984B2 Airport security screening system and method
A system for performing airport security screening of carry-on bags and other separately scanned carry-on items such as electronics. The system includes a number of airport divestment and luggage carts. Each of the carts includes a frame with a lower support for receiving carry-on luggage, and the frame further supports security bins for receiving separately scannable items (such as a computing device). The system includes a 3D scanner scanning items passed through a scanning tunnel. The system also includes a conveyance system engaging the carts and transporting the carts through the scanning tunnel for 3D scanning, with such scanning including the carry-on luggage and the separately scannable items in bins. Typically, the frame of each of the carts is formed of one or more non-metallic materials and is non-collapsible. Further, the carts may be oriented to be upright during transportation through the scanner.
US09074983B2 Deposition of sensing layers for surface acoustic wave chemical sensors based on supra-molecular chemistry
The design and deposition of a sensing layer for room temperature SAW/BAW chemical sensors utilizing macrocyclic compounds in accordance with supra-molecular chemistry principles. The gas to be sensed is attached to the organic sensing film thus changing its visco-elastic properties and creating a mass increase of the film deposited on the surface of SAW/BAW devices. A direct printing method can be used as an additive, mask-less procedure to deposit metallic interdigital transducers and electrodes required for SAW/BAW devices, along with the deposition of a guiding layer and the organic films only on the location required by the sensing SAW/BAW principle of the sensor. Different thermal treatment solutions can be used for the consolidation of the gelly organic films deposited by the direct printing methods.
US09074982B2 Modular device to measure ionic, electronic and mixed conductivity in polymeric and ceramic membranes
This invention consists in a device and a method to determine the ionic, electronic and mixed (electronic-ionic) conductivity in polymer, ceramic and composite (polymeric-ceramic) membranes. The invention device may work from room temperature to 300° C. and the method includes the collection and analysis of electrochemical impedance spectra during cell operation.
US09074980B2 Method for the toxicity assessments of nano-materials
The present invention relates to a method for the toxicity assessment of nano-materials, and more specifically, it is relates to an objective, reproducible and accurate assessment method for the unbiased toxicity testings of nano-materials, which minimize artifacts of the conventional methods for the toxicity assessment of the nano-materials by considering the dose characteristics of the nano-material itself using Selective multi-Plane Illumination Microcopy (SPIM); and the response characteristics of the nano-material using the improved or novel cellular responses assessment methods for nano-materials (e.g., modified MTT assay using image cytometric analysis, normal-inverted exposure apparatus, and modified flow cytometry), and a system and an apparatus thereof.
US09074976B2 Viscosity measuring method
A method for measuring the average viscosity of a test fluid uses calibrated magnetic nanoparticles, with certain chosen hydrodynamic diameters and actual lateral dimensions (e.g. diameters), that are mixed into a small volume of the test fluid and a single magnetic relaxation curve measurement to provide data for viscosity determination. The distribution of hydrodynamic particle sizes of an ensemble of magnetic nanoparticles that are magnetically blocked at room temperature can be determined. Modifications of the method can be used to determine the distribution of viscosities in a complex fluid at the sub-microscopic level providing a novel type of viscosity measurement.
US09074975B2 Particulate matter detecting apparatus
A particulate matter detecting apparatus that measures an amount of particulate matter in a gas by applying a predetermined voltage between a pair of first electrodes of a sensor element portion includes a detecting portion that detects whether more particulate matter than a reference amount has accumulated on the first electrodes, a temperature controlling portion that controls a temperature of the sensor element portion to become equal to or higher than a reference temperature when it is detected that more particulate matter than the reference amount has accumulated, and a voltage controlling portion that applies a reference voltage between the first electrodes and a second electrode arranged such that a solid electrolyte is sandwiched between the second electrode and the first electrodes, when it is detected that more particulate matter than the reference amount has accumulated.
US09074973B2 Cloth evaluation apparatus
A cloth evaluation apparatus can grasp the piercing property and the cutting property with a cloth in advance. The cloth evaluation apparatus includes a measuring member having, on its distal side, a measuring part to pass through a cloth; a cloth/measuring part moving means for moving the cloth or the measuring member so that the measuring part passes through the cloth; a cloth supporting means for supporting the cloth at around a passing-through point, in the cloth, of the measuring part from both sides of the cloth when the measuring part passes through the cloth; and a load detecting means for detecting a load being applied to the measuring member while the measuring part passes through the cloth.
US09074966B2 Spring force nodal mounting method for resonator sensor
A resonator in the fluid for displacing the fluid has a sensing section and a non-sensing section. A compression contact member coupled to the mounting body compressively secures the resonator non-sensing section in a mounting body. The apparatus may further include a pressure feed through module received in the mounting body that is in signal communication with the resonator.
US09074963B2 Detector and methods of detecting
An ultrasonic detector (10) suitable for mounting in a position for surveying an area for a source of airborne ultrasound, which detector comprises a sensor (20) for detecting an ultrasonic sound signal, characterized by a transducer (64) configured to produce a broadband ultrasonic sound signal for reception by said sensor (20) enabling said ultrasonic detector to perform a self-test.
US09074962B2 Liquid leakage detector, liquid transport apparatus and method of detecting liquid leakage
A liquid leakage detector includes: a first liquid detection unit provided at a member to be detected, the first liquid detection unit being configured to detect a liquid leaked from the member to be detected; a liquid impermeable member which covers the first liquid detection unit to protect the same from the ambient air; and a determining unit configured to determine whether the liquid is leaking from the member to be detected in response to a signal from the first liquid detection unit.
US09074955B2 Detection device, electronic apparatus, and robot
A detection device includes: a detecting unit having a first substrate on which a plurality of pressure sensors are disposed around a reference point and a second substrate on which is formed an elastic projection whose center of gravity is positioned in a position overlapping with the reference point and that elastically deforms due to an external force in a state in which the tip of the elastic projection makes contact with the first substrate; and a controller that carries out detection operations for detecting the presence/absence of the external force based on pressure values detected by at least one of the plurality of pressure sensors, and controls the next detection operations of the detection unit based on the result of the previous detection.
US09074953B2 Sensor packaging at output side of front wheel drive (FWD) transmissions
Various packaging designs for placement of a magnetic torque sensor at the output shaft of a front wheel drive transmission are provided. One design provides for mounting a sensor on a chain drive sprocket or integrating a sensor into a modified sprocket bearing mount. Another design provides for mounting a sensor at the grounded ring gear of a final planetary drive. Another design provides for mounting a sensor at the differential housing. Another design provides for mounting a sensor at the output planetary carrier hub/park gear. Another design provides for mounting a sensor at a multi-piece transfer gear face.
US09074945B2 Measuring insert for temperature measurement
A temperature measuring insert composed of ceramic or sintered materials of magnesium oxide or aluminum oxide accomodates, on its end facing the measured medium, temperature sensor elements, such as thermocouples and temperature measuring resistors, as a measuring tip, installable singly or with others in metal or ceramic protective tubes. The site of the measuring tip, a water adsorption behavior differing from the remaining measuring insert material is present, in order to protect the temperature sensor elements in the case of rapid process related temperature changes, in order to prevent, in the case of heating, effects due to superheated steam. A solution is provided by features including that the measuring insert has a jacketing comprising densified desiccant coatings, which have a gradient with a continuously or stepwise adapted water adsorptive behavior in the direction of the temperature sensor element, wherein, for example, a decreasing water adsorption is realized according to the invention by means of different fractions of modified and unmodified adsorbents as well as hydrophobic, super hydrophobic or hydrophobized ceramic parts.
US09074939B2 Ambient luminosity level detection based on discharge times
A method wherein the updating of a counter is triggered when a photodiode reaches a discharge threshold.
US09074938B2 Substrate for surface enhanced Raman spectroscopy analysis and manufacturing method of the same, biosensor using the same, and microfluidic device using the same
A substrate for surface enhanced Raman spectroscopy analysis (SERS) comprises a ferroelectric single crystal having polarization-inverted patterns of spontaneous polarizations including polarization-inverted portions and non-inverted polarization portions, and metallic dots positioned at only either one polarized surfaces of the polarization-inverted portions and the non-inverted polarization portions. The provided SERS substrate produces a high enhancement effect. A microfluidic device incorporating the SERS substrate is also provided.
US09074937B2 Multiple concurrent spectral analyses
According to an example, apparatuses for performing multiple concurrent spectral analyzes on a sample under test include an optical system to concurrently direct a plurality of light beams onto analytes at multiple locations on the sample under test, in which the plurality of light beams cause light in either or both of a Raman spectra and a non-Raman spectra to be emitted from the analytes at the multiple locations of the sample under test. The apparatuses also include a detector to concurrently acquire a plurality of spectral measurements of the light emitted from the analytes at the multiple locations of the sample under test. Example methods of performing spectral analysis include use of the apparatuses.
US09074932B2 Spectrum data correction system and spectrum data correction method
An object of the invention is to automatically remove noise out of an input spectrum data while rounding in spectral shape is being suppressed. The spectrum data correction system wherein a noise quantity is detected on the basis of a difference in value between an extremal point of measurement data-blocks making up input spectrum data, and a mean value of measurement data-blocks in the vicinity of the extremal point, and a count of moving-average points of measurement data-blocks subjected to moving average processing is controlled according to the noise quantity, the spectrum data correction system comprises means for using an optical power, detected by a photo-detector of an optical spectrum analyzer, as the measurement data-block, thereby controlling the count of the moving-average points of the measurement data-blocks according to magnitude of a signal level of the measurement data-block.
US09074926B2 Electronic balance with windproof case and electrically conductive structure
Brackets and are disposed on the back surface of an upper case on which a pair of molded members and constituting a cylindrical structure forming a rear wall of a windproof case are erected. At one end of each of the brackets, the bracket is electrically connected to the molded member and the bracket is electrically connected to the molded member by screws of the upper case, and the brackets are electrically connected to a lower case by screws. Further, a metal plate on the upper case is electrically connected via a metal member fixed to the cylindrical structure.
US09074923B2 System and methods for belt conveyor weighing based on virtual weigh span
Imperfections in conveyor belting and its supporting elements can adversely affect weighing accuracy of belt scales, particularly when weighing and/or metering low density materials, such as those encountered in the snack food industry. A system and methods for a belt conveyor according to an embodiment of the present invention provide simultaneous benefits of both short and long weigh spans. According to an embodiment of the present invention, a virtual weigh span may be programmably set to adjust for variations in the belt conveyor weighing system. Advantages include, higher degrees of accuracy and calibration to account for changes in the belt or belting system over time using non-mechanical adjustments. In addition, weight measurement error producing effects, some that may not be particularly known, may be reduced.
US09074921B1 Cryogenic liquid level sensor apparatus and method
The invention proposed herein is a system and method for measuring the liquid level in a container that employs an optic fiber sensor which is heated using a simple power source and a wire and making an anemometry measurement. The heater wire is cycled between two levels of heat and the liquid level is obtained by measuring the heat transfer characteristics of the surrounding environment.
US09074911B2 Measurement system and method utilizing high contrast encoder head for measuring relative movement between objects
A measurement system (22) for measuring the position of a work piece (28) includes a measurement grating (34) and an encoder head (36). The encoder head (36) directs a measurement beam (252) at the measurement grating (34), the measurement beam (252) having an oval shaped cross-section. The encoder head (36) includes a beam shape adjuster (256) positioned in the path of an input measurement beam (240) having a substantially circular cross-sectional shape that transforms the input measurement beam (240) to provide the measurement beam (252) having the oval shaped cross-section.
US09074909B2 Navigation system, navigation method, and navigation program
Systems, methods, and programs detect a current position of a movable body, identify a destination for the moveable body, and search for a going route from a departure point to the destination. The systems, methods, and programs search for a returning route from the destination to the departure point and select a landmark for a branch point along the returning route. While the current position is moving along the going route, the systems, methods, and programs provide returning-route guidance regarding the branch point using the selected landmark.
US09074907B2 Navigation method and system for selecting and visiting scenic places on selected scenic byway
A navigation method and apparatus is designed to efficiently retrieve the information on the scenic byways and to visit such scenic byways through calculated routes. The navigation method and system performs a scenic byway mode in which operations and screen displays are specially designed for efficiently retrieving and selecting a desired scenic byway and scenic places to visit. The navigation method and system allows the user to efficiently search the information and select the scenic byway and scenic places to visit. The navigation method and system stores the information on the scenic byways in the map database and facilitates retrieval thereof in response to the request by the user. Alternatively, the information on the scenic byways and scenic places can be retrieved from the remote data server through wireless communication.
US09074906B2 Road shape recognition device
A road shape recognition device capable of accurately recognizing the road shape of a road that lies ahead in the travel direction of a vehicle is provided. A road shape recognition device 1 detects a road region of the road based on an image capturing a scene ahead in the travel direction of the vehicle, and estimates the shape of the road based on that road region. Thus, it is possible to accurately recognize road shapes over distances ranging from short to long.
US09074903B1 Method and apparatus for intelligent acquisition of position information
Improved methods and systems for position acquisition and/or monitoring are disclosed. The position acquisition and/or monitoring can be performed with improved intelligence so that data acquisition, transmission and/or processing is reduced. As a result, the position acquisition and/or monitoring is able to be performed in a power efficient manner.
US09074895B2 Trajectory planning
A method and apparatus for determining a trajectory for a vehicle are disclosed, wherein the method can include identifying a starting position (p0) for the vehicle; identifying a desired terminal position (P) for the vehicle; linearly approximating dynamics of the vehicle; and using the starting position (p0), the desired terminal position (P), and the linear approximation, determining the trajectory for the vehicle. The linear approximation can be constrained by requirements that: an acceleration of the vehicle during the trajectory is less than a threshold value for the acceleration; and the threshold value for the acceleration is dependent on an infinity norm of a velocity of the vehicle. The vehicle may have a curvature limit.
US09074889B2 Vibration gyro having bias correcting function
A vibration gyro having a structure for canceling a quadrature error generated by structural asymmetricity due to production tolerance and a means for correcting a bias value when an angular velocity is zero. In order to apply a counter torque to a sense mass for canceling the quadrature error, left correction comb electrodes are fixed to a substrate adjacent to a left drive mass, and comb electrodes opposed to the correction comb electrodes are arranged on an inner portion of a frame member which constitutes the left drive mass. By applying DC voltage to the correction electrodes, electrostatic force, for canceling the leakage rotational displacement of the sense mass generated when the input angular velocity is zero, is generated.
US09074888B2 Gyro drift cancelation
Methods, devices, and systems are presented for compensating for gyroscopic drift in a stabilized gimbal system mounted on a vehicle. When the vehicle is parked and the gimbal is not being commanded to move by an operator, encoders or resolvers of the gimbal stabilized system are read and periodically read thereafter. When the vehicle begins to move or the gimbal is commanded to move, the last periodic reading of the resolvers is used to determine the amount that the gimbal has moved during the rest period. A gyroscopic drift rate is computed by dividing the amount of angular movement by the time period between the readings, and the gyroscopic drift rate is used for corrections while the vehicle is moving or gimbal is commanded to move. Each time the vehicle stops, the gyroscopic drift rate is re-computed and updated. The gyroscope can be heated until the drift rate is constant with respect to temperature, further helping the calibration.
US09074887B2 Method and device for detecting distance, identifying positions of targets, and identifying current position in smart portable device
A method for detecting distance in a smart portable device includes acquiring an image of a target object, calculating a length of a side of the target object in the image, acquiring a predicted length of the side of the target object, and determining a distance between the smart portable device and the target object according to the length of the side of the target object in the image and the predicted length.
US09074886B2 Line-width measurement device and measurement method using the same
A line-width measurement device and a measurement method using the same are disclosed. The line-width measurement device has a platform, an image capturing device and a color-mixing light source device. The image capturing device captures an image of a pattern under measurement in a measurement area of the platform. The color-mixing light source device correspondingly provides illumination to the measurement area. The color-mixing light source device has a plurality of monochromatic light sources and adjusts the brightness scale of each monochromatic light source according to the matching rate of the pattern under measurement and a standard pattern to provide suitable color-mixed lights for illumination. Therefore, the present invention can provide a better measurement environment to further enhance accuracy of line-width measurement.
US09074884B2 Electro-optical distance measuring device with a gesture-based measurement trigger that functions without contacting the measuring device
An electro-optical distance measuring device. Criteria are defined and stored which characterize a determined gesture for triggering the distance measurement, said gesture being carried out by a user using a test body that crosses the measuring light beam in an encoded manner. The analyzing and control unit is designed to carry out a measurement-triggering gesture mode in which reflected portions of the optical measuring light beam are continuously detected automatically and the continuously detected reflected portions are analyzed with respect to characteristic variables, the variables being dependent on a gesture that crosses the measuring light beam by means of a test body in an encoded manner. The characteristic variables are used to test whether the variables correspond to the defined criteria so that the gesture that is carried out by the user is identified as the gesture for triggering the distance measurement if the characteristic variables correspond to the criteria.
US09074882B1 Image null-balance system with multisector-cell direction sensing
A light beam is detected/localized by multisector detector—quad-cell, or 5+ sectors handling plural beams. Preferences: Beams focus to diffraction limit on the detector, which reveals origin direction by null-balance—shifting spots to a central sector junction, and measuring shifts to reach there. One or more MEMS reflectors, and control system with programmed processor(s), sequence the spot toward center: following a normal to an intersector boundary; then along the boundary. One afocal optic amplifies MEMS deflections; another sends beams to imaging optics. After it's known which sector received a spot, and the beam shifts, source direction is reported. The system can respond toward that (or a related) direction. It can illuminate objects, generating beams reflectively. Optics define an FOR in which to search; other optics define an FOV (narrower), for imaging spots onto the detector. The FOR:FOV angular ratio is on order of ten—roughly 180:20°, or 120:10°.
US09074880B2 Measuring probe for non-destructive measuring of the thickness of thin layers
The invention relates to a measuring probe for non-destructive measuring of the thickness of thin layers, in particular in cavities, which are accessible by an opening or on curved surfaces, with a measuring head, which comprises at least one sensor element and at least one contact spherical cap, assigned to the sensor element on a surface, to be checked, of the cavity, and with a gripping element for positioning and guiding the measuring probe on and/or along the surface to be measured, wherein on the gripping element, a long, elastically yielding guide bar is provided, which accepts the at least one measuring head on its end opposing the gripping element, in such a way that it is moveable with at least one degree of freedom in relation to the guide bar.
US09074879B2 Information processing apparatus and information processing method
A projection pattern that includes a measurement pattern for measuring a distance to a target object, and a code pattern for identifying the measurement pattern is projected onto the target object. The target object onto which the projection pattern was projected is sensed. On the basis of a relationship between the measurement pattern and the code pattern in the sensed image, the projection pattern that is to be projected onto the target object after the projection pattern are changed, the code pattern is read out in the sensed image of the target object onto which the changed projection pattern was projected, and the measurement pattern is associated with it. Using the associated measurement pattern, a distance from the projection unit or the sensing unit to the target object is acquired.
US09074878B2 Laser scanner
A laser scanner for optically scanning and measuring an environment is provided. The laser scanner includes a light transmitter for emitting a light beam to measure a plurality of points in the environment, the light transmitter coupled to the rotating unit. A receiver is provided for receiving a reflected light beam reflected from the plurality of measurement points, the receiver being coupled to the rotating unit. A first image acquisition unit is configured to record a visible image of an area of the environment that includes the plurality of points. A sensing device is configured to record data of the area. A processor is operably coupled to the receiver, the first image acquisition unit and the sensing device, the processor is configured to associate a color value from the visible image and a recorded data value from the sensing device with each of the plurality of points.
US09074877B2 Positional deviation detection unit, light emitting device, illumination apparatus, projector, vehicle headlamp, and positional deviation adjustment method
A positional deviation detection unit (20) includes a detection portion (21) that detects a relative positional relationship between a laser element (24), a condensing lens (27), and a light emitting portion (3), and a determination portion (22) that compares a detection result from the detection portion (21) with a reference relative positional relationship which is used as a reference for the relative positional relationship, so as to determine whether or not there is a deviation of the relative positional relationship between the laser element (24), the condensing lens (27), and the light emitting portion (3) when the detection portion (21) performs the detection, from the reference relative positional relationship.
US09074874B2 Coating detection on transparent sheet material
A method and device are provided for detecting and determining a type of a coating on either surface of a transparent sheet, measuring a thickness of the transparent sheet and measuring a spacing between at least two transparent sheets. The method and device include at least three discrete light sources, a 2D image generating device, a lens, and a processor. A reflected image area from the surfaces of the transparent sheet from each of the at least three discrete light sources produces a sparse spectrometer profile used to detect the coating and to determine the type of coating on either surface of the transparent sheet. A distance between the reflected image position from the at least three discrete light sources from both surfaces of the transparent sheet is used to calculate the thickness of the transparent sheet and the spacing between at least two transparent sheets.
US09074872B2 Method and device for measuring the angular position of a rectilinear contrasting edge of an object, and system for fixation and tracking a target comprising at least one such contrasting edge
The present invention relates to a method for measuring the angular position of a contrasting edge of an object having a luminance transition zone which is substantially rectilinear in a given direction and separates two regions of different luminances. This method comprises the functional steps of: —carrying out, in a transverse direction different from the given direction, an amplitude modulation of the signals delivered by a first and a second optical sensor; and —calculating an output signal (Yout(t)) starting from the signals delivered by the first and the second optical sensors (D1, D2) as a function of the angular position of the luminance transition zone. Device and set of devices for measuring the angular position of a contrasting edge and steering aid system for fixation and tracking a target comprising at least one such contrasting edge.
US09074868B2 Automated borescope measurement tip accuracy test
Measurement accuracy of a remote visual inspection (RVI) system is tested using a test object including a test feature having a known geometric characteristic. Using a controller, attachment of a detachable measurement optical tip to an RVI probe is detected. A user is then prompted to perform testing of the measurement accuracy. When the user indicates the test feature is visible, the system captures one or more images of the test feature, determines coordinates of the test feature from the images, and measures a geometric characteristic of the test feature using the coordinates. An accuracy result is determined using the measured geometric characteristic and the known geometric characteristic, and an indication is provided, e.g., to the user, of the result of the comparison. An RVI system with a user-prompt device is also described.
US09074864B2 Device and method relating to a sensing device
Methods, devices, and systems relating to a sensing device are disclosed. A device may comprise a structure including a first surface and a second, opposite surface, wherein the structure comprises one or more segments. Further, the device may include a plurality of sensors disposed on the structure, wherein each segment of the one or more segments comprises a first sensor of the plurality of sensors coupled to the first surface and an associated second sensor of the plurality of sensors coupled to the second surface. Moreover, each sensor of the plurality of sensors may be configured to measure a strain exhibited on an adjacent surface of the structure at an associated segment of the one or more segments.
US09074863B2 Height measuring device for workpieces
A height measuring includes a mounting base, a measuring mechanism, and a controller. The measuring mechanism includes a driving member, a measuring member, and a sensor. The driving member is mounted onto the mounting base. The sensor is positioned on the driving member. The measuring member is movably positioned on the driving member and passes through the sensor. The driving member is configured to drive the measuring member to move until it contacts a workpiece in a jig. The controller is electrically connected to the sensor and prestores a moving distance range. The sensor is configured to sense a moving distance of the measuring member and transmit the moving distance to the controller. The controller is configured to judge whether or not the workpiece reaches a proper height relative to the jig by comparing the moving distance data with the prestored distance range.
US09074861B2 Displacement detecting device
A displacement detecting device includes a light source, a beam splitting section, a diffraction grating, a reflecting section, a beam combining section, a light receiving section, and a relative position information output section. The diffraction grating is adapted to diffract a first beam reflected by a surface-to-be-measured of a member-to-be-measured, and cause the diffracted first beam to be incident again on the surface-to-be-measured. The reflecting section is adapted to reflect a second beam split by the beam splitting section to the beam splitting section. The light receiving section is adapted to receive interfering light of the first beam and the second beam. The relative position information output section is adapted to output displacement information of the surface-to-be-measured in the height direction based on intensity of the received interfering light.
US09074853B2 High-energy laser system intercepting a target and method thereof
A high-energy laser system intercepting a target using a phase conjugate mirror includes a laser oscillator which generates a laser beam irradiated to the target, a light amplifier which receives the laser beam irradiated to and reflected by the target so as to amplify it, a phase conjugate mirror which reflects the amplified laser beam. And the laser beam that is reflected by the phase conjugate mirror is amplified again in the light amplifier, and then irradiated to the target so as to intercept the target.
US09074849B1 Camouflage for garment assembly
A garment assembly such as a uniform, a military uniform and a military combat uniform is presented. The garment assembly includes a helmet or head cover being cut from a fabric having a first camouflage pattern with a first set of intermixed colored blotches thereon. The colors of the first set of intermixed colored blotches being selected from a first group of colors including an Olive 527 color, a Dark Green 528 color, a Tan 525 color, a Brown 529 color, a Bark Brown 561 color and a Dark Cream 559 color. The uniform also includes a coat being configured to fit at least a portion of a human torso and a trouser configured to fit at least a portion of human legs, the coat and trouser each being cut from a fabric having a second camouflage pattern with a second set of intermixed colored blotches thereon, the colors of the second set of intermixed colored blotches being selected from a second group of colors comprising an Olive 527 color, a Dark Green 528 color, a Light Sage 560 color, a Tan 525 color, a Brown 529 color, a Bark Brown 561 color and a Dark Cream 559 color.
US09074848B1 Precision geographic location system and method utilizing an image product
A method of mapping a target region image to a referenced image includes steps of acquiring the target region image. The method also includes acquiring the referenced image overlapping the target region image. The method further includes determining a number of common subregions in an intersection of the referenced image and the target region image, determining offsets between the common subregions, computing a distortion map of the target region image over the intersection, and remapping the target region image to match the reference image. The method can be utilized in a Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) and the target image can be a SAR image.
US09074847B1 Stabilized weapon platform with active sense and adaptive motion control
A stabilized platform is provided with active sense and adaptive control is provided that allows an operator, during operation, to switch between an electrically assisted operational mode to a manual operational mode. Related systems, apparatus, methods, and articles are also described.
US09074841B2 Actuation system and method for missile container doors
A missile container sealing assembly includes an end cap capable of sealing an end of a container for a missile, and one or more linkage assemblies for controllably opening the end cap. The end cap has a frame portion that defines an opening for a missile and is mountable to the end of the missile container, and a door portion that includes one or more doors that close and seal the opening in the frame portion. Each linkage assembly is associated with a respective one of the one or more doors, for opening the doors relative to the frame portion. Moreover, each linkage assembly includes a link that transmits a force ahead of the leading end of the missile to open the doors and permit the missile's egress through the opening.
US09074839B2 Interchangeable buttstock system for rifles
A modular buttstock system for firearms includes user replaceable and interchangeable buttstock modules. The modules include a comb portion and butt portion which may be provided in a variety of configurations, sizes, and materials. The modules and firearm buttstock each include complementary configured mounting portions and a mounting system designed to provide interchangeable and removable attachment of the modules to the buttstock. In some non-limiting embodiments, the buttstock and modules may be formed of synthetic materials.
US09074836B1 Adjustable anchor tab
An improved adjustable anchor tab is provided which includes a tab positioning assembly secured to the body member of the tab. Tab positioning assembly includes a rotatable wheel in one embodiment and includes a rotatable cylinder in another embodiment. The rotatable wheel of the first embodiment rotatably engages the lower inner side of the archer's mandible when in the anchor point. In the second embodiment, the roller extends at an angle with respect to the support upon which it is mounted.
US09074823B2 Thermal siphon structure
A thermal siphon structure includes a main body, a chamber disposed therein, an evaporation section, a condensation section and a connection section positioned between the evaporation section and condensation section. The evaporation section and condensation section are respectively arranged in the chamber on two sides thereof. The connection section has a set of first communication holes and a set of second communication holes in communication with the evaporation section and condensation section. The evaporation section and condensation section respectively have multiple first and second flow guide bodies, which are arranged at intervals to define therebetween first and second flow ways. Each of the first and second flow ways has a narrower end and a wider end. The first flow ways communicate with a free area. The condensation section is designed with a low-pressure end to create a pressure gradient for driving a working fluid to circulate without any capillary structure.
US09074815B2 Nitrogen removal with ISO-pressure open refrigeration natural gas liquids recovery
A process for recovery of natural gas liquids is disclosed, the process including: fractionating a gas stream comprising nitrogen, methane, ethane, and propane and other C3+ hydrocarbons into at least two fractions including a light fraction comprising nitrogen, methane, ethane, and propane, and a heavy fraction comprising propane and other C3+ hydrocarbons; separating the light fraction into at least two fractions including a nitrogen-enriched fraction and a nitrogen-depleted fraction in a first separator; separating the nitrogen-depleted fraction into a propane-enriched fraction and a propane-depleted fraction in a second separator; feeding at least a portion of the propane-enriched fraction to the fractionating as a reflux; recycling at least a portion of the propane-depleted fraction to the first separator. In some embodiments, the nitrogen-enriched fraction may be separated in a nitrogen removal unit to produce a nitrogen-depleted natural gas stream and a nitrogen-enriched natural gas stream.
US09074813B2 Automated unloading bare block plate freezer system
An automated plate freezer assembly apparatus includes a hopper mounted above at least one freezer plate unit with the hopper able to pass food material from the hopper to the freezer plate unit. The freezer plate unit has a cooling device for freezing the food material and a heating device so that, upon the completion of freezing, frozen blocks of material are able to be gravitationally removed from the plate freezer assembly apparatus.
US09074808B2 Tower pantry in refrigerator
A tower pantry includes a guide mechanism mounted on a bottom of an opened space inside a refrigerating room and a basket attached to the guide mechanism and configured to move forward and backward on the first guide mechanism. The tower pantry also includes frames that are fastened to corners of the first basket and that vertically extend from the first basket. The tower pantry further includes a frame cover fastened on the frames and defining a space that accommodates a large-size beverage container.
US09074806B2 Display device and refrigerator having the same
A refrigerator having a display is disclosed herein. The display may display contents of the refrigerator, display recommended recipes based on the contents, and display an operational state of the refrigerator. The refrigerator may include a body, at least one door, at least one storage area, a display for displaying a GUI having a first region for displaying an image of the at least one storage area and a second region for displaying a control interface, a memory having information for contents of the at least one storage area, a communication interface, and a controller for controlling the display. The controller may control a display of at least one icon for a type of food in the second region of the GUI and may control a display of one of the at least one icon in the first region of the GUI based on an input at the display.
US09074805B2 Method and apparatus for improving accuracy of A/C diagnostic tests
An apparatus and method are developed to improve accuracy of diagnostic tests for A/C systems. In particular, a refrigerant recovery unit may have its hoses pre-charged with a refrigerant to a predetermined pressure or amount before performing the diagnostic tests on the A/C system of the vehicle. For example, a predetermine amount of refrigerant may be injected into the hoses of the refrigerant recovery unit to pre-charge them. The pre-charged hoses of the refrigerant recovery unit may prevent a refrigerant flow from the A/C system to the hoses connected thereto before the diagnostic tests are implemented and thus, improve the accuracy of the diagnostic tests.
US09074802B2 Clear ice hybrid mold
A method of making clear ice spheres includes a providing a mold apparatus having a first mold portion and a second mold portion having mold cavity segments which define one or more mold cavities when the mold apparatus is assembled in an ice forming position. The mold apparatus includes a water jacketing system which is adapted to keep water in continuous circulation within the mold cavities to ensure clear ice is formed. Water is injected into the mold cavities and where a portion of the water is frozen to form a clear ice structure and a portion of the water enters the water jacketing system. Water may remain circulating in the water jacketing system, or may be expelled from the mold apparatus. The circulating water of the water jacketing system facilitates directional solidification of clear ice structure across a thermal gradient of the mold apparatus.
US09074800B2 Temperature regulation system with hybrid refrigerant supply and regulation
The present invention provides a temperature regulation system with hybrid refrigerant supply and regulation in which a pressure-reducing regulator (R100) from an evaporator (EVA100) controlled by a switch valve (V100) being installed between a condenser (CON100) and the evaporator (EVA100), and a refrigerant injector (IJ100) being installed between the condenser (CON100) and the evaporator (EVA100), and an electric control unit (ECU100) being provided for controlling the switch valve (V100) and the pressure-reducing regulator (R100) or for controlling the refrigerant injector (IJ100) such that both or at least one thereof being served to transport the refrigerant (REF100) to the interior or exterior of the evaporator (EVA100).
US09074799B2 Cooling-storage type heat exchanger
Multiple cooling-storage containers are arranged in respective spaces formed between neighboring refrigerant tubes. The cooling-storage container is made of a pair of outer envelope portions, each forming a side wall. Multiple convex portions and concave portions are formed in the side walls so that air passages are formed between refrigerant tubes and the concave portions. A sectional area of the air passage formed in a lower portion of the cooling-storage container below a predetermined height is made larger than that of the air passage formed in an upper portion of the cooling-storage container above the predetermined height.
US09074794B2 Systems and methods for co-production of geothermal energy and fluids
Systems include a well having a production casing and a production tubing positioned therein, forming an annulus there between. A packer is positioned in the annulus at a position sufficient to separate the annulus into a first portion and a second portion. The well further includes a tie-back conduit positioned in the first portion of the annulus and configured to allow heat transfer between a working fluid flowing through the first portion of the annulus and a production fluid flowing through the production tubing, thus separating the circulating working fluid from fluids in the second portion of the annulus. A working fluid loop is fluidly connected to the first portion of the annulus. Co-production methods, methods of modeling, and computer-readable media including the methods of modeling are disclosed.
US09074783B2 Temperature regulation system with hybrid refrigerant supply and regulation
The present invention provides a temperature regulation system with hybrid refrigerant supply and regulation in which a pressure-reducing regulator (R100) from an evaporator (EVA100) controlled by a switch valve (V100) being installed between a condenser (CON100) and the evaporator (EVA100), and a refrigerant injector (IJ100) being installed between the condenser (CON100) and the evaporator (EVA100), and an electric control unit (ECU100) being provided for controlling the switch valve (V100) and the pressure-reducing regulator (R100) or for controlling the refrigerant injector (IJ100) such that both or at least one thereof being served to transport the refrigerant (REF100) into the evaporator (EVA100).
US09074781B2 Automatic roof ventilation system
A roof ventilation system operable based on environmental parameters is disclosed. The system includes a vent, a fan, a solar panel, a battery and a controller. The vent is positioned within a field of a roof, and includes a first opening configured to allow airflow between regions above and below the roof. The fan is positioned to generate an air flow through the vent. The solar panel is positioned on the roof in a location such that the solar panel receives solar radiation. The battery is electrically connected to the solar panel. The controller is in communication with the fan, and is configured to drive the fan based on at least one environmental parameter.
US09074774B2 Heating apparatus provided with combustion control
The invention relates to a solid-fuel heating apparatus that includes a combustion chamber (1) and a first flue-gas discharge duct (6), characterized in that the heating apparatus includes: a dual wall (2A) defining a second flue-gas discharge duct (2) located outside the combustion chamber and on the flue gas path between the combustion chamber (1) and said first duct (6), and provided in a vertical section thereof with a plurality of controlled communication valves (11, 12, 13, 14, etc.) arranged at respectively different heights (h1, h2, h3, h4, etc.), the second flue-gas discharge duct (2) being adapted via an opening (2B) in the lower portion of the dual wall (2A) so as to extend the flow path of the flue gas by an amount depending on the selection of the open inlet valve in the second duct (2) while the others are closed; adjusting means adapted for selecting, for each of the valves (11, 12, 13, 14, etc.), an open or closed position based on the temperature of the flue gas measured by a temperature probe (7) located at said first duct (6) so as to adjust the length of the flow path of the flue gas (3) in order to minimize the temperature of the flue gas while maintaining the latter above the dew point thereof.
US09074772B2 Combustor and operating method thereof
This invention is directed to supply a combustor having a structure that reduces NOx emissions while maintaining combustion stability. The combustor has a chamber into which fuel and air are supplied. An air hole plate having a plurality of air holes upstream of the chamber is also disclosed, and fuel nozzles supplying fuel to the air holes of the air hole plate are further disclosed. In the combustor, a center of a chamber-side of the air hole plate is closer to the chamber than exits of outermost peripheral air holes.
US09074771B2 Burner inserts for a gas turbine combustion chamber and gas turbine
A burner insert for a gas turbine combustion chamber is provided. The burner insert includes a burner insert wall including a cold side and a hot side, an edge delimiting the burner insert wall. The edge includes an edge bar extending at least partially circumferentially and projecting beyond the cold side. A burner opening for inserting a burner is formed in the burner insert wall.
US09074770B2 Gas valve with electronic valve proving system
A valve assembly may be configured to perform a valve proving test as part of an operational cycle of a combustion appliance coupled to the valve assembly. The valve assembly may include a valve body having a fluid path, first and second valve sealing members translatable between an opened position and a closed position, and one or more pressure sensors in fluid communication with an intermediate volume of the fluid path between the first and second valve sealing members. A valve controller may be in communication with the pressure sensor and may monitor a measure related to a pressure change rate in the intermediate volume. The valve controller may then output a signal if the measure related to a pressure change rate in the intermediate volume meets and/or exceeds a threshold value.
US09074767B2 Rotary bottom ash regeneration system
A rotary bottom ash regenerating (RBAR) system [100] comprises a cylindrical body that receives ash [17] containing reactant particles [10] that are partially reacted limestone compounds having unreacted cores [13] from a furnace. Sensors [140] sense physical parameters within the cylindrical body [110]. A controller [170] receives the output of the sensors [140] and information indicating the amount of unreacted core [13] and causes a fluid actuator [135] to spray a proper amount of regeneration fluid regulator [135] from a plurality of spray nozzles [131] to different locations within the cylindrical body [110] to regulate the temperature and to cause the reactant particles [10] to have a require content of regeneration fluid. This causes the reactant particles [10] to be regenerated and reused. This results in a lower limestone costs and less overheating of ash handling systems.
US09074764B2 Burner having a pilot burner system with swirler wings and a plurality of outlet nozzles
A burner with a burner head is provided. The burner includes a mixing tube for premixing combustion air and fuel. The mixing tube is provided with a pilot burner system in its downstream part. The pilot burner system includes an annular mixing cavity with an entrance for assist air and pilot fuel and outlet nozzles. The mixing cavity is provided with at least two swirler wings arranged in the vicinity of each outlet nozzle.
US09074761B2 Composite table lighting structure for wired charging and wireless charging
A charging device and associated electrical appliances are provided. More than one electronic device can be charged simultaneously, with a wireless charging option available. Thus, the user has greater flexibility in selecting the desired charging option. Each associated appliance has a receiving compartment to hold the charging device, and the receiving compartment is configured with at least one first terminal. The charging device has at least one electrical interface for cable connection, a wireless charging transmitter, and at least one second terminal for mating electrically to the first terminal.
US09074756B2 Light guide and illumination assembly incorporating the same
A light guide (15) for delivering an illumination, in particular a reference or background illumination, the light guide comprising: a mirror box (21) which defines a mirror cavity (23), which receives a light source (19) therein, and includes an illumination aperture (25) from which an illumination is delivered; a transmissive diffuser (27) which is located at the illumination aperture to render the illumination diffuse; and a shutter member (41) which is movable into the cavity to obstruct the light source and provide for control of the radiance of the delivered illumination, whereby control of the radiance of the delivered illumination is determined by a position of the shutter member in the cavity.
US09074754B2 Light source module
A light source module is provided, which includes at least one light emitting unit and at least one light guide element. The light emitting unit includes a light source and a lens structure. The light source is used for emitting a light beam. The lens structure has a bottom surface, a top surface opposite to the bottom surface, and a first surface connecting the bottom surface and the top surface. The bottom surface has a first recess and a second recess connecting the first recess and the first surface. The top surface has a third recess. The light guide element includes at least one opening and a plurality of first optical micro-structures disposed beside the opening. The light emitting unit is disposed in the opening. The light beam passes through the lens structure and enters the light guide element via the opening.
US09074750B2 Light source
According to embodiments of the present invention, an ocular lens is provided. The ocular lens includes an optical filter configured to change a chromaticity of light impinging on the ocular lens so as to transmit a filtered light to an eye of a viewer, wherein the filtered light comprises a first light having a first peak wavelength in a range of between about 460 nm and about 490 nm and a second peak wavelength in a range of between about 490 nm and about 550 nm.
US09074749B2 Display apparatus
A display apparatus is provided. The display apparatus includes a transparent display panel, a reflector disposed in the display apparatus and configured to reflect light and provide the reflected light to the transparent display panel, a light emitter configured to emit the light and project the emitted light to the reflector, and a control circuit configured to control the transparent display panel and the light emitter.
US09074746B2 Non-uniform multi-faceted reflector for rear combination lamp providing sparkle effect
A rear combination lamp for a vehicle is disclosed, in which facets on a reflective surface impart relatively large angular deviations to their respective reflected beams. Reflected light from each facet is only visible over a particular angular range. The angular ranges for all facets overlap only in a predetermined manner, so that at a given viewing angle, light from only particular facets is visible. The appearance of the rear combination lamp varies as a function of viewing direction. As a viewing angle changes, light from certain facets becomes visible, and light from other facets becomes invisible. This changing subset of which facet reflections are visible produces a sparkling or twinkling effect from the rear combination lamp. In some designs, the sparkling can take on a pattern that moves across the rear combination lamp, as the viewing angle changes.
US09074744B2 Vehicular lamp
A vehicular lamp includes a transparent planar light emitting body including a first light emitting surface and a second light emitting surface which face each other, a first reflector and a second reflector. The transparent planar light emitting body emits light from the first light emitting surface and the second light emitting surface. The first reflector reflects light from the first light emitting surface to the front. The second reflector reflects light from the second light emitting surface to the front.
US09074739B2 Flashlight with multiple light sources
A flashlight includes a housing for receiving a battery; a first light supported by the housing, the first light configured to emit light in a first direction; a second light supported by the housing, the second light configured to emit light in a second direction that is non-parallel with the first direction; and an actuation switch configured for selectively powering the first light and the second light with the battery received in the housing.
US09074734B2 Light emitting diode (LED) light source device having uniform illumination
An LED light source device includes a printed circuit board (PCB) and a plurality of LED light sources located on the PCB and electrically connected with the PCB. The plurality of LED light sources are arranged symmetrically relative to a center point of the PCB, and a distance between every adjacent two LED light sources decreases along a direction away from the center point of the PCB. An optical lens is located over the LED light sources for diverging light from a central one of the LED light sources.
US09074733B2 Single multi-chip lamp sources and related methods
Multi-chip sources and related methods are disclosed. A single multi-chip lamp source can include a substrate and at least three light emitting diode (LED) chips operably configured to the substrate to form a single LED package. The LED chips can include at least three different colored LED chips. The LED chips can be configured to be actuatable either individually or together to provide selectable colored light beams. The LED chips can be positioned on the substrate such that an emitted light beam remains concentric without shifting regardless of the chip or chips emitting the light beam.
US09074732B2 Frozen/chilled fluid for pipelines and for storage facilities
Methods of, and apparatus for, storing and transporting a hazardous fluid, such as a combustible fuel, include methods and means, respectively, for: (a) treating the fluid to reduce its hazardous condition; (b) storing and/or transporting the treated fluid in such a manner that the risk of its hazardous condition remains reduced; (c) thereafter retreating the fluid to restore it to its original hazardous condition so that the fluid may be used in its restored condition. The hazardous fluid may be treated by adding a substance to, or removing a substance from, the fluid, or by changing the state of the fluid. For example, if the fluid is a fuel, it may be treated by cooling it to near or below its freezing temperature to reduce its combustibility, volatility, explosivity and/or ease of ignition.
US09074731B2 Gas monitoring system with oxygen control for human life support in enclosed refuge spaces
A gas monitoring and oxygen supply control system, including a flame-proof and explosion proof housing; a gas monitoring sensor system enclosed in said housing, said sensor system including a sensor controller, a plurality of gas sensors, and a CPU; air sampling pipes in fluid communication with said gas sensors and with the atmospheres to be sampled; input sampling ports disposed on said air sampling pipes and exposed to the atmospheres to be sampled; at least one exhaust pipe for venting gases to a select atmosphere outside said housing; flame-proof port assemblies disposed through a wall of said housing separating said sensor system from an outside atmosphere and through which said air sampling pipes and said exhaust pipe are disposed; at least one pump operatively connected to said air sampling pipes so as to provide both suction and exhaust, said pump electronically connected to and controlled by said CPU; a plurality of valves disposed on said air sampling pipes and electronically coupled to and controlled by said CPU; and a transceiver coupled to said CPU and to a feedthrough radio antenna disposed through a side of said housing for communicating bi-directionally with one or more handsets.
US09074730B2 Method for dispensing compressed gases
Method for dispensing a compressed gas to receiving vessels wherein a threshold pressure of compressed gas needed to supply the dispensing system is calculated, the threshold pressure depending on the anticipated time-averaged dispensing rate for a time period. Compressed gas is passed from a plurality of supply vessels, for example a tube trailer, to a plurality of storage vessels, and dispensed from the plurality of storage vessels to a plurality of receiving vessels. The supply vessel providing the compressed gas is required to have a compressed gas pressure greater than the calculated threshold pressure.
US09074729B2 Method and filling installation for filling a hydrogen gas into a vessel
Method and filling installation for filling a hydrogen gas into a vessel (1) having a first port (2) for passing the hydrogen gas and a second port (3) for passing a fluid, wherein the second port (3) is separate from the first port (2). In a first phase a hydraulic fluid is introduced into the vessel (1) through the second port (3) by applying pressure to the hydraulic fluid, such that the hydraulic fluid in the vessel (1) causes a hydrostatic pressure having a pre-determined value. In a second phase the hydrogen gas is introduced into the vessel (1) through the first port (2) by controlling a difference of pressure relative to a current pressure in the vessel (1) for controlling expansion of the hydrogen gas and thereby temperature inside the vessel (1), such that the vessel (1) is filled with the hydrogen gas. To that end the hydraulic fluid is removed from the vessel (1) through the second port (3).
US09074727B2 Safety guard for a rotatable member
Embodiments of a safety guard, fit concentrically over a rotating member, such as a rod assembly, which extends outwardly from apparatus, such as a drive head. The guard may be restrained during normal operation for preventing entanglement of personnel or other apparatus with the rod assembly which continues to rotate within the tubular guard, or may be unrestrained during normal operation. When unrestrained, the guard is free to co-rotate with the rod assembly, but has a low moment of inertia such that the guard decelerates rapidly when restrained so as to prevent entanglement. An anti-friction interface between the guard and the rod assembly is formed by the material of manufacture of the guard itself or by bearings or bushings supported in an annulus between the guard and the rod assembly.
US09074723B2 Hooking and releasing device for blocks
Automatic hooking device with controlled releasing operation is mounted to a ship or other transportation device with a hooking member having an engaging member operated by ascending movement of a block and fixed to a support structure on lifting blocks, the hooking device is a system of moveable levers reciprocally interconnected by pins, the levers move the hooking device between two end positions to engage or release with the block depending on if the hooking device is in the engaging or releasing position, where a control device operates the hooking device and levers to move the hooking device between the engaging or releasing position to secure or release the block.
US09074719B2 Apparatus and method for heat curing of pipe liners
An apparatus and method that accelerates curing of resin in a liner for a buried pipe includes an air inversion unit connected to an air compressor. The apparatus include a curing cap having an inflation port, a curing port and a drainage port. A remote source of pressurized fluid is placed in fluid communication with the inflation port. The apparatus also includes a manifold having an outlet, a first inlet in valved fluid communication with a heated fluid source, a second inlet in valved fluid communication with a pressurized fluid source and a third inlet in valved fluid communication with the drainage port. A flexible tube is slidably received by the curing port while maintaining a substantially fluid-tight seal. The flexible tube has a first end in fluid communication with the outlet of the manifold and the second end has a substantially spherical guide thereon. The second end of the flexible tube also includes a plurality of perforations to allow fluids to pass there through.
US09074717B2 Vacuum heat insulating material, heat insulating box using vacuum heat insulating material, refrigerator, refrigerating/air-conditioning apparatus, water heater, equipments, and manufacturing method of vacuum heat insulating material
A highly reliable vacuum heat insulating material having excellent processability, usability and heat insulating performance and a heat insulating box using the vacuum heat insulating material are provided. A vacuum heat insulating material related to the present invention includes: a core material structured by a laminated structure of an organic fiber assembly formed by forming an organic fiber into a sheet shape and cutting an end face with a predetermined length, and having a core material opening portion formed by a through hole or a notch with cutting; a gas-barrier outer cover material containing the core material inside, having a sealing portion for sealing surrounding of the sheet-shaped organic fiber assembly and surrounding of the core material opening portion, and hermetically sealing an inside with almost vacuum status by sealing the sealing portion; and an outer cover material opening portion provided at the outer cover material under a status in which the sealing portion provided at the surrounding of the sheet-shaped organic fiber assembly and the surrounding of the core material opening portion is sealed, being a through hole or a notch which is smaller than the core material opening portion with a sealed amount, and a long fiber being equal to or longer than a length of the sheet is used for the organic fiber.
US09074716B2 Vacuum heat insulating material, heat insulating box using vacuum heat insulating material, refrigerator, refrigerating/air-conditioning apparatus, water heater, equipments, and manufacturing method of vacuum heat insulating material
A highly reliable vacuum heat insulating material having excellent processability, usability and heat insulating performance and a heat insulating box using the vacuum heat insulating material are provided. A vacuum heat insulating material related to the present invention includes: a core material structured by a laminated structure of an organic fiber assembly formed by forming an organic fiber into a sheet shape and cutting an end face with a predetermined length, and having a core material opening portion formed by a through hole or a notch with cutting; a gas-barrier outer cover material containing the core material inside, having a sealing portion for sealing surrounding of the sheet-shaped organic fiber assembly and surrounding of the core material opening portion, and hermetically sealing an inside with almost vacuum status by sealing the sealing portion; and an outer cover material opening portion provided at the outer cover material under a status in which the sealing portion provided at the surrounding of the sheet-shaped organic fiber assembly and the surrounding of the core material opening portion is sealed, being a through hole or a notch which is smaller than the core material opening portion with a sealed amount, and a long fiber being equal to or longer than a length of the sheet is used for the organic fiber.
US09074714B2 Portable integral fitted plastic pipe method
A method for producing a detachable portable plastic pipe assembly comprises a molded coupling fused to pipes with a gasket inserted in between the pipes to form a seal. A spline is inserted into an aperture formed by the molded coupling to create a lock. The spline is mechanically attached or fused to the coupling. The assembly is attached to a water source for water transport. The gasket for forming a seal comprises an inside lip, an outside lip, and a nipple. The inside lip is composed of a softer material than the outside lip, and extends slightly beyond the length of the outside lip.
US09074708B2 Double-pipe joint
A double-pipe joint for connecting and coupling a double pipe consisting of outer and inner pipes made of a fluororesin tube. An inner joint portion for coupling the inner pipe is formed by: a sleeve which is to be pressingly fitted into an inner-pipe end portion; an inner-pipe joint body which is to be fitted onto the end portion; and an inner-pipe union nut. An outer joint portion for coupling the outer pipe is formed by: a sleeve which is to be pressingly fitted into an outer-pipe end portion; an outer-pipe joint body which is to be fitted onto the end portion; and an outer-pipe union nut. The inner-pipe union nut and the outer-pipe joint body are formed integrally into a nut-equipped body.
US09074701B2 Solenoid valve
A solenoid valve is disclosed that includes at least one chamber which can be filled with a fluid and which is provided in a housing of the solenoid valve, a closing piston which can be displaced by an actuation device and a spring element which can act against the actuation device. An annular element which divides the chamber into a first and a second sub-chamber is provided, said annular element being at least partially, in particular completely engaged in the axial direction by a closing piston of the solenoid valve arranged in a guide opening of the annular element and comprises at least one fluid passage recess which is different from the guide opening.
US09074699B2 Multi-port normally open modular valve with thread-in seat
A normally open solenoid operated modular valve includes a solenoid body receiving a coil and pole piece. A polymeric material valve body portion is releasably connected to the solenoid body. An armature/valve member slidably disposed in both the solenoid body and the valve body portion has a male threaded end shank. A polymeric material thread-in poppet/valve member includes an internal threaded portion engaging the male threaded end shank to retain the thread-in poppet/valve member on the armature/valve member. A resilient material valve ring is retained on the thread-in poppet/valve member. A cylindrical tube portion receives an armature/valve member rod portion. A biasing member acts against the armature/valve member and thereby acts to normally bias the valve ring away from contact with a valve seat surface created in the valve body portion defining a modular valve normally open position.
US09074695B2 Volume booster with discrete capacity adjustment
A volume booster for an actuator system advantageously includes an adjustable restrictor, such that the exhaust capacity of the device can be adjusted for specific applications. The device comprises a body, a supply path, an exhaust path, and the restrictor. The supply path operates to provide a supply of fluid to boost a stroke time of an actuator in the actuator system, e.g., in an opening direction. The exhaust path operates to accommodate backpressure relief when the actuator system operates the actuator in a closing direction, for example. The restrictor is disposed within the exhaust path and is selectively manipulable between a plurality of positions to define a plurality of distinct exhaust capacities, thereby eliminating any requirement to change the entire volume booster to achieve a different exhaust capacity.
US09074694B2 Control valve for hydraulic media
A control device for hydraulic media with a control valve, in particular, a proportional valve that has a sleeve housing provided with radial openings, wherein at least one pressurized flow feed line, at least one control line, and at least one return line are connected to the openings, and the opening for the pressurized flow feed line is connected to a ring-shaped groove, with a control slide that has control edges and is supported in the sleeve housing so that it can move in the axial direction and is actuated by an electromagnetically constructed control unit, advantageously for controlling a phase adjustment device for the variable adjustment of the control times of gas exchange valves of a reciprocating piston internal combustion engine. A non-return valve is installed in the pressurized flow feed line or in the ring-shaped groove that is arranged in the sleeve housing.
US09074688B2 Rotary shaft seal
In a rotary shaft seal configured such that first and second seal elements (1) and (2) each having a fundamental thickness (T) and each curved through a curved wall portions (5) of a corresponding one of the first and second seal elements (1) and (2) to have a generally J-shaped cross section are arranged so as to be curved in opposite directions along a shaft center (L), a wide circumferential groove (7) is formed in each of opposed surfaces (6) of the respective curved wall portions (5) of the first and second seal elements (1) and (2). Under use conditions (where the seal is inserted), extreme end portions (8) of the first and second seal elements (1) and (2) are in contact with an outer circumferential surface (9a) of a rotary shaft (9) with a peak contact pressure such that a contact width (E) is equal to or less than twice the fundamental thickness (T).
US09074687B2 Sealing device for turbocharger
A seal body 24 is formed annularly to have a fitted/fixed portion 25 airtightly fitted and fixed to a shoulder 22 in a turbine housing 1 formed facing a scroll passage 8 and have a clearance facing portion 27 facing an outer periphery of a turbine-housing-side exhaust introducing wall 9a with a clearance S, the clearance facing portion 27 being caused to be pressed against the exhaust introducing wall 9a due to a difference in fluid pressure between the clearance S and the scroll passage 8. Slipout preventive means 29 is formed on the fitted/fixed portion 25 of the seal body 24 for preventing the fitted/fixed portion 25 from slipping out of the shoulder 22.
US09074684B2 Transmission gear shift indication techniques
Transmission gear shift control techniques can include calculating, at a controller of a vehicle powered by an internal combustion engine, the controller including one or more processors, brake specific fuel consumption (BSFC) for each of: (i) a current gear of a transmission of the vehicle, (ii) a lower gear than the current gear of the transmission, and (iii) a higher gear than the current gear of the transmission, wherein the transmission is one of a manual transmission and an automatic transmission operating in a manual mode. The techniques can include determining, at the controller, which of the current gear, the lower gear, and the higher gear has a smallest BSFC to obtain a desired gear of the transmission. The techniques can also include outputting, from the controller, an indication to shift the transmission to the desired gear.
US09074683B2 Gear shift indication device
In a hybrid vehicle provided with a continuously variable electric transmission mechanism capable of sequential shift mode, a minimum engine rotational speed is specified for each gear specified in the sequential shift mode so that the lower the gear, the greater the minimum engine rotational speed. When the engine rotational speed has decreased to the minimum rotational speed while driving in the sequential shift mode, an upshift lamp of a gear shift indication device is turned on to prompt the driver to manually shift to a higher gear. As the driver shifts to a higher gear in response to the prompt, the minimum engine rotational speed is specified to a lower value. That allows for further decrease of the engine rotational speed and improves fuel consumption rate.
US09074682B2 Asymmetric elliptical chain gear for a bicycle
According to the present invention, an asymmetric elliptical chain gear (10) is characterized by having a shape formed by a combination of: a first ellipse (1) the major axis of which is located on the X-axis of a vertical coordinate system and the minor axis of which is located on the Y-axis of the vertical coordinate system; a first straight line (3) which is perpendicular to the minor axis, and which intersects the first ellipse (1); and a second ellipse (2) which exists on the first straight line (3) and which passes first inflection points (A, A′) that form a fixed angle (a) with respect to the minor axis in the clockwise direction, and which contacts ellipse contact points (B, B′) on the first ellipse (1) that are located at points forming a fixed angle (b) in the clockwise direction. The asymmetric elliptical chain gear (10) of the present invention has a shape formed by a combination of a straight line section ranging from a second reflection point (C), which is a cross point between the first straight line (3) and the first ellipse (1), to the first inflection point (A); a second ellipse section ranging from the first inflection point (A) to the ellipse contact point (B); and a first ellipse section ranging from the ellipse contact point (B) to the second inflection point (C′).
US09074672B2 Disconnectable driveline for all-wheel drive vehicle
A rear drive module for an all-wheel drive vehicle. The rear drive module includes a disconnect clutch, a differential assembly and a hollow shaft. The disconnect clutch has a first clutch member, which is coupled to the spool for rotation therewith, and a second clutch member. The differential assembly includes a differential case. The hollow shaft is coupled to the differential case for rotation therewith and is configured to transmit rotary power in a power path between the disconnect clutch and the differential assembly.
US09074670B1 Hydraulic pump assembly
A hydraulic pump assembly having a main pump, a charge pump and an auxiliary pump driven by a single shaft is provided. A pair of hydraulic porting members cooperates to feed and distribute hydraulic fluid between the three pump units, and a single inlet may be used to provide hydraulic fluid to the charge pump and the auxiliary pump.
US09074666B2 Power transmission apparatus
Disclosed is a power transmission apparatus. The power transmission apparatus includes a ring gear; first and second gears engaged with one side of the ring gear; a clutch interposed between the first and second gears and moved toward one of the first and second gears according to a rotational direction thereof so as to be coupled with one of the first and second gears; and a driving shaft providing power to the clutch.
US09074665B2 Multi-ratio transmission
A multi-stage transmission having eight forward and one reverse gear including planetary gears, shafts, and shift elements. The sun gear of gearset (P1) couples the third shaft (3) and the ring gear of gearset (P3), and can couple the housing via brake (03). The input shaft couples the carrier of gearset (P1) and can couple, via clutch (15), shaft (5), which couples the sun gear of gearset (P3) and can couple, via clutch (57), shaft (7) that couples the ring gear of gearset (P3). Shaft (6) couples the ring and sun gears of respective gearsets (P1, P2). Shaft (8) couples the carrier and the sun gear of respective gearsets (P3, P4). Shaft (4) couples the carrier of gearset (P4) and can couple, via brake (04), the housing. The output shaft couples the ring gear of gearset (P4) and the carrier of gearset (P2). Clutch (56) detachably connects shafts (5, 6).
US09074662B2 Binary and friction clutch assembly
A transmission is provided having an input member, an output member, four planetary gear sets, a plurality of coupling members and a plurality of torque transmitting devices. Each of the planetary gear sets includes first, second and third members. The torque transmitting devices include clutches and brakes actuatable in combinations of two to establish a plurality of forward gear ratios and one reverse gear ratio. One of the torque transmitting devices includes a friction clutch and a binary clutch which have a spring-ball structure disposed therebetween.
US09074660B2 Transmission
A transmission having a hollow-cylindrical main body having end faces, which has internal toothing and a rotation axis and in which a driven input member and an output member are rotatably mounted, wherein the output member comprises two rotating bodies, which are non-rotatably connected to one another and have a circular cross-section transversely to the rotation axis. The rotating bodies are provided with spacers, a gear wheel and a device for converting planetary movements of the gear wheel into rotational movements of the output member being disposed between the rotating bodies. The device has a ring shape, the two end faces of which have two guides with central axes, one of whose end face extend perpendicularly to an axial plane of the transmission, while the other end face extend parallel to the axial plane, and the ring has continuous, axially oriented openings through which spacers pass without contact.
US09074659B2 Actuator with position detecting mechanism
An actuator with a position detection mechanism includes a main body, a transmission mechanism, a quick-release mechanism and a position detection mechanism. The transmission mechanism includes a worm gear with protruding keys and a lead screw shaft. The quick-release mechanism is mounted onto the lead screw shaft and includes a clutch gear with key slots for disengaging or engaging with the protruding keys in order to move axially relative to the worm gear. The position detection mechanism includes a variable resistor, an actuating gear mounted on the lead screw shaft to rotate altogether therewith and a driving gear connected to the variable resistor and engaged with the actuating gear. When the worm gear disengages from the clutch gear, a particular resistor value is formed at the variable resistor; therefore, disengaged or engaged positions of the worm gear and the clutch gear can be precisely controlled.
US09074658B2 Chain tensioner lever
A chain tensioner lever has a chain guide surface which is formed such that in its main area extending from an end near a boss to an end near a piston contact, a curved track that slides along a timing chain in the chain travel direction has a continuously varying radius of curvature.
US09074657B2 Tensioning system with restoring action
A tensioning system with restoring action for tensioning a flexible drive means is provided, in particular a drive chain of an internal combustion engine, composed of a tensioning apparatus and a restoring device. The tensioning apparatus comprises a housing, a tensioning piston which is guided in a movable manner in the housing and which has a detent profiling, and a detent hook for the stepped adjustment of the working range of the tensioning piston, wherein the detent hook has a clamping region for engaging into the detent profiling in the tensioning piston. Here, a retraction stop is provided at the housing, at which retraction stop, in an abutting state of the detent hook, a further retraction movement of the tensioning piston into the housing is prevented by virtue of the clamping region being clamped on the detent profiling. The restoring device has a restoring element which is separate from the tensioning apparatus and which is received in a restoring receptacle of the tensioning apparatus and which prevents the abutment of the detent hook against the retraction stop and which, in the event of abutment of the detent hook against the restoring element and a further retraction movement of the tensioning piston, causes the clamping region to spread open and permits a restoring movement of the tensioning piston. The present system also relates to a corresponding tensioning apparatus having a restoring receptacle for receiving the restoring element.
US09074655B2 Apparatus for damping flywheel
An apparatus for damping a flywheel includes a drive plate integrally connected to a crankshaft. A flywheel is connected to receive a rotating force from the drive plate through planetary gearing, and is mounted to rotate relative to the crankshaft. A rigidity imparting means is disposed on a path along which a rotating force is transferred between the drive plate and the flywheel. A mass body is provided on the flywheel, and is configured to perform relative rotation in a direction that offsets a torsional vibration of an engine transmitted to the flywheel.
US09074647B2 Brake lining wear indicator, disc brake having such an indicator and brake shoes for such a disc brake
The invention relates to a device for indicating wear on the friction lining of a brake shoe of a disc brake, having an electrically conductive unit which comes into electrical contact with the brake disc when a first predetermined wear limit is reached during braking, wherein the electrically conductive unit is elongate and a section adjacent to the section lying closest to the brake disc in the installed state forms an angle between 0° and 90°, preferably between 2° and 20°, more preferably between 8° and 16° with the plane of the brake disc. Other embodiments may be described and/or claimed.
US09074645B2 Driving force transmission control system
A driving force transmission control system includes: an electric motor; a multi-disc clutch; a cam mechanism that converts rotation output from the electric motor into cam thrust force that is axial force in the axial direction of the multi-disc clutch; a pressure-conversion mechanism that converts reaction force against the cam thrust force into pressure of a fluid; a pressure sensor that detects the pressure; and a control unit that computes a command value of a current supplied to the electric motor. The control unit stores the pressure of the fluid during disengagement of the multi-disc clutch, and computes the current command value based on the pressure of the fluid to which the reaction force against the cam thrust force has been applied, and the stored pressure of the fluid.
US09074643B2 Three-pass torque converters
A torque converter comprising: a cover for receiving torque from a prime mover; an impeller fixed to the cover to form a housing for the torque converter; a turbine disposed in the housing for receiving torque from the impeller; a clutch backing plate fixed to the housing and arranged to receive a force, in an axial direction, from the turbine during operation of the torque converter; a thrust plate for thrust engagement with the clutch backing plate, and, a cover plate for driving engagement with a damper spring, wherein the thrust plate comprises the cover plate.
US09074640B1 Squawk reducing clutch hub assembly
An E clutch hub assembly for the Ford 6R140 transmission, that reduces the squawk noise that occurs during the 3-4 upshift. A clutch hub has a lower pressure washer onto which is stacked a damper hub having radially located lube holes to direct lube to the E clutch plates. An upper pressure washer is stacked onto the damper hub while a pressure plate, seated within a snap ring rove machined into the hub, applies pressure onto the two pressure washers which help absorb the squawk noise. A waved spring holds the entire assembly within the hub.
US09074639B2 Positive shifting device, in particular a guided manual transmission
A positively interlocking shifting device, in particular a claw shifting device for a vehicle transmission. The shifting device comprises at least a first clutch element (1) and a second, axially displaceable clutch element (2). For the interlocking engagement of the corresponding claws (3, 4) of the first and second clutch elements (1, 2), the axially displaceable clutch element (2) can be shifted as soon as a predetermined speed difference, between the two clutch elements (1, 2), is reached. At least one detection device is provided for detecting an offset position between the corresponding claws (3, 4) of the first and the second clutch elements (1, 2), as required for engagement.
US09074634B2 Removable bearing cover
A bearing cover is provided for attachment relative to a bearing assembly. The cover includes a flange and a magnet associated with the flange. The magnet is configured to removably retain the bearing cover relative to the bearing assembly.
US09074629B2 Multi-layer slide member
A multi-layer slide member has a back metal layer mainly composed of a steel plate and a porous layer having a metallic porous member and a resin composition filled in the metallic porous member. The metallic porous member has granular portions and narrow portions and includes a structure, in which the granular portions are connected with each other through the narrow portion. Parts or the entirety of the narrow portions have a Bi phase and a Sn—Ni—Cu intermetallic compound phase.
US09074628B2 Sliding component
A swash plate type compressor is arranged with a plurality of semispherical shoes and a disc shaped swash plate. A resin coating having a honeycomb structure is formed on a surface and a rear surface (sliding surface) of the swatch plate which slides with the shoe. An edge part (top end) of each of the multiple cylinder bodies which forms the resin coating layer are at the same plane and forms a sliding surface which slides with the shoe. In addition, an interior space of each cylinder body forms a storage part of a lubricant and a container part for foreign objects.The swash plate can be provided with excellent wear resistance, seizure resistance and lubrication retention.
US09074620B2 Measuring device including an indexed locking arm
A measuring device including a base on which is mounted, to pivot about a horizontal axis, between a high position and a low position, a first end of an articulated arm having a second end provided with a pointing member. A position locking device is mounted between the base and the first end, the position locking device comprising a pawl mounted so as to oppose movement of the arm toward the low position and connected to means for disengagement of the pawl.
US09074610B2 Tank module for a liquid tank
The present invention concerns a tank module for insertion into an opening region (4a) of a tank (1) for storing a fluid (2) and comprises a housing (5) which can be inserted into a lower part of the tank (1) and has an outlet region (9), a filter device (14) for filtering the fluid (2) in the tank (1), and a pump device (15) arranged in the outlet region for conveying the fluid (2) to the outlet region (9), wherein the pump device (15) is arranged at least partially within the filter device (14).
US09074606B1 Compressor surge control
Compressors having at least two compressor stages, a compressor discharge a first recycle flow path wherein the first recycle flow path connects the first compressor stage inlet feed and the compressor discharge, a second recycle flow path wherein the second recycle flow path connects the second compressor stage inlet feed and the compressor discharge, measurement devices sufficient to quantify a volumetric flow rate of the first compressor stage inlet feed, and a controller arranged and configured to accept a set of inputs, wherein the set of inputs comprises information sufficient to determine the work imparted by the first compressor stage, wherein the set of inputs is sufficient to quantify a volumetric flow rate of the second compressor stage inlet feed are described herein. Compressors having differing numbers of stages and the control of those compressors are also described.
US09074605B2 Turbine engine compressor having air injections
A turbine engine compressor, including a first housing for supporting injectors, a second housing arranged around the first housing while forming with the first housing an annular space therewith, and a plurality of air injectors each mounted in recesses. Each air injector includes at least one inner air injection channel which leads, on one side, into an outflow jet of the gas stream and, on the other side, into the space formed between the recesses, and, at an upstream end, an upstream rim having an inner surface radially bearing against an upstream rim of the corresponding recess of the first housing and an outer surface radially bearing against an inner surface of the second housing. A mechanism clamping the upstream rim of the air injectors between the housings enables the air injectors to be held in position in the recesses of the first housing.
US09074603B2 Cooling fan with circuit board positioning structure and an assembly method thereof
A cooling fan includes a fan frame, a circuit board, a stator-coil unit and an impeller. The fan frame includes a metal seat and a lateral wall. The metal seat includes an engaging face and an engaging portion arranged on the engaging face. The lateral wall is arranged on a periphery of the metal seat and includes an air inlet and an air outlet. The circuit board includes a positioning hole. The circuit board is press fit around the engaging portion of the metal seat via the positioning hole and adhered to the engaging face of the metal seat. The circuit board includes an insulation layer facing the metal seat. The stator-coil unit is mounted on the metal seat of the fan frame and electrically connected to the circuit board. The impeller is rotatably coupled with the stator-coil unit.
US09074600B2 Rotary compressor
In a rotary compressor of a vane rotary type, an outer peripheral surface of an eccentric portion of a shaft on a side adjacent to a center of the shaft is located radially inwardly of an outer peripheral surface of a main shaft inserted in a main bearing and that of an auxiliary shaft inserted in an auxiliary bearing. Also, a back clearance means used in mounting a piston on the shaft is provided in each of an inner peripheral surface of the piston and the eccentric portion of the shaft. Such configurations can reduce a diameter of the eccentric portion. A reduction in diameter of the eccentric portion can reduce a viscous force of oil acting between the eccentric portion of the shaft and the inner peripheral surface of the piston to thereby reduce a rotational moment about a center of the eccentric portion of the shaft, which rotational moment acts on the piston in a direction of rotation of the shaft, thus making it possible to reduce a sliding loss that is generated by a reciprocating motion of a vane in a vane groove.
US09074592B2 Deployment of downhole pump using a cable
Embodiments disclosed herein relate to a method and a system to deploy a downhole pump within a well. The system includes the downhole pump disposed in a well, the downhole pump having a motor, and a cable having at least one strength member layer bonded to a cable core, in which a first end is connected to a power source disposed at a surface of the well and a second end is connected to the downhole pump. The cable is configured to support and power the downhole pump in the well.
US09074591B2 Compressor cylinder block and cylinder head distortion prevention
There is provided a compressor including a hermetic container storing therein a lubricant, an electric element, and a compression element driven by the electric element, the compression element including a crankshaft, a bearing portion, a cylinder block, a piston, and a joining portion, wherein a cylinder head is tightened and fixed together with a valve component by a bolt to an opening surface side of a compression chamber formed by a cylinder bore and the piston, and a screw hole portion formed in the opening surface side, for fixing the bolt includes a counterbore extending to the vicinity of a boundary between the cylindrical portion and the tapered portion.
US09074587B2 Energy efficient sewage pumping system with a controller and variable frequency drive and method
A system includes a pump that is operative to move liquid out of a reservoir. The system also includes a depth level sensor that is operative to determine a depth level of the liquid in the reservoir, and a controller operatively connected to the depth level sensor. The system further includes a variable frequency drive operatively connected to the motor and the controller. Responsive to the determined depth level of the liquid increasing to a first level, the controller is operative to start operation of the motor. The variable frequency drive is operative to control the speed of the motor. The controller is operative to cause the variable frequency drive to output an optimum frequency that causes the motor to operate at substantially the lowest usage of energy to lower the depth level of the liquid in the reservoir from the first level to a second level.
US09074585B2 Solar thermal power generation using multiple working fluids in a rankine cycle
A system to convert the heat collected by solar thermal collectors into electricity using a Rankine cycle generator with multiple working fluids and multiple temperature-level heat sources is disclosed.
US09074583B2 Method for operating a wind energy installation
A method for operating a wind energy installation (10) with a rotor (12) and at least one rotor blade (14), which can be adjusted in terms of its angle of attack. The rotor blade (14) is accelerated by virtue of at least five repeated adjustment operations of the angle of attack about its longitudinal axis (15), wherein a rotor blade bending vibration with a vibration amplitude and a vibration frequency is excited.
US09074582B2 Wind turbine nacelle with cooler top
The present invention relates to a wind turbine nacelle having a top face with a longitudinal extension in a wind direction. The nacelle comprises a cooling device having a cooling area and extending from the first face of the nacelle, and a cover having at least one inner face and at least a front edge facing the wind direction. The cooling device is enclosed by the first face of the nacelle and the inner face of the cover and is arranged in a front distance of at least 440 mm from the front edge of the cover.
US09074580B2 Staggered multi-level vertical axis wind turbine
A staggered multi-level vertical axis wind turbine includes a cage structure including wind directing elements arranged circumferentially about outer edges thereof. Within the cage structure is a rotor including a centrally located shaft orientated along an axis and extending at least from one end of the cage structured to another end. The rotor includes a first rotor level of torque generating elements of a first type coupled to the shaft. The rotor includes a second rotor level of torque generating elements of a second type coupled to the shaft. The rotor includes a third rotor level including torque generating elements of the first type coupled to the shaft. The wind directing elements receive and re-direct wind onto the torque generating elements of the various levels, thereby producing torque and causing the rotor to spin. The rotor is coupled to an electrical generator, which generates clean and renewable energy.
US09074574B2 Glow plug and method for producing a glow pencil
The invention relates to a glow plug for a diesel engine, said glow plug comprising a ceramic glow pencil, which has a heating portion, and a housing, from which the glow pencil protrudes, wherein the glow pencil has a ceramic inner conductor, an insulation layer surrounding the inner conductor, and a ceramic outer conductor layer arranged on the insulation layer. In accordance with this disclosure, the outer conductor layer in the heating portion only partially covers the insulation layer.
US09074570B2 Method and system for controlling output of hybrid starter generator
Disclosed herein is a method and a system for controlling a generation output of a starter generator connected to an engine to transmit a rotary force in a hybrid electric vehicle. The method includes receiving, by a controller, vehicle state information for determining a driving mode of the vehicle after the vehicle starts, and determines the driving mode requiring an increase of the generation output from the vehicle state information; determining, by the controller, a need for the increase of the generation output to control a generation output variable for each driving mode; determining, by the controller, a torque command and a torque application time corresponding to a required output for each driving mode of the vehicle to control the generation output variable; and applying, by the controller, the determined torque command for the determined application time to control the generation output of the starter generator.
US09074567B2 Fuel injection pump having a separable plunger
A fuel injection pump having a separable plunger includes a separable plunger of which outer circumference is slide coupled to an inside of the a such that a lower portion thereof is supported by an upper portion of a main plunger to enable upward and downward slide movement in association with the main plunger, wherein an injection timing control spiral step of which upper surface is formed in a spiral shape, is protrudingly formed on the outer circumference thereof and a fuel passage is formed on one side of the outer circumference thereof including the injection timing control spiral step and an elastic member having a lower portion elastically supported by the separable plunger and an upper portion inserted within the barrel to be supported by an upper surface of the barrel.
US09074565B2 Damped fuel delivery system
A fuel delivery system including a fuel line and a damper. The fuel line extends to a fuel injector and defines a fuel path. The damper is along the fuel path and includes a flexible member and a stop. A first side of the flexible member faces the fuel path and a second side of the flexible member faces the stop.
US09074562B2 Fuel supply apparatus, computer-readable storage medium, and method of controlling fuel supply apparatus
A fuel supply apparatus includes a raw-fuel tank, a separator, a heater, a cooler, and an adjustment mechanism. The raw-fuel tank is to store raw fuel. The separator is to separate the raw fuel into a first fuel and a second fuel. The adjustment mechanism is to perform adjustment of at least one of a first factor, a second factor, and a third factor so that a first temperature of the separator is set to within a predetermined first temperature range or is set to a first target temperature. The first factor includes a flow rate of the raw fuel. The second factor includes an amount by which the raw fuel is heated in the heater. The third factor includes an amount by which the second fuel is cooled in the cooler.
US09074560B2 Apparatus and method for controlling exhaust gas recirculation
An exhaust gas recirculation control apparatus includes: an EGR valve adjusting a flow rate of EGR gas recirculated from an exhaust manifold to an intake manifold; a manifold absolute pressure (MAP) sensor measuring pressure inside the intake manifold; a throttle valve controlling the amount of inflow air; an igniter spraying fuel; an acceleration pedal angular position sensor; a crank position sensor measuring engine RPM; a vehicle speed sensor measuring a speed of a vehicle; and a control portion receiving a pressure signal from the MAP sensor, calculating a ratio of the EGR gas for a total volume of the intake manifold by using pressure variance inside the intake manifold, calculating pressure of the EGR gas by multiplying the pressure of the intake manifold and the ratio of the EGR gas, and converting the pressure of the EGR gas to a flow rate of the EGR gas.
US09074558B2 Centrifugal precipitator for precipitating oil mist from the crankcase ventilation gas from an internal combustion engine
A centrifugal precipitator having a housing and a rotatable driven rotor for precipitating oil mist from crankcase ventilation gas of an internal combustion engine. The housing has an inlet for gas to be deoiled, a deoiled gas outlet and an oil outlet. The housing includes a metallic main element surrounding the rotor and carrying the rotor bearing. A housing bottom is built onto the main element from below. The housing attaches with a flange to a counterflange or module of the engine. The housing flange is formed on the main element and the housing. The oil outlet runs through a first flange part of the housing bottom and this flange part has a circumferential rim. A second flange part of the main element has a collar engaging over part of its periphery behind the rim and can be clamped with the rim in between against the counterflange.
US09074553B2 Cylinder block assembly
A cylinder block assembly is provided. The cylinder block assembly includes a cylinder block including a cylinder, two crankshaft supports at a bottom of the cylinder block, first and second cylinder block exterior sidewalls ending above a centerline of the two crankshaft supports. The cylinder block assembly further includes a structural frame coupled to the cylinder block, the structural frame including first and second structural frame exterior sidewalls extending above the centerline of the two crankshaft supports and coupled to the first and second cylinder block exterior sidewalls.
US09074545B2 Air-fuel ratio imbalance detecting device and air-fuel ratio imbalance detecting method for internal combustion engine
An air-fuel ratio imbalance detecting device for an internal combustion engine, which detects a rich imbalance in air-fuel ratio among a plurality of cylinders on the basis of a variation per unit time in air-fuel ratio that is detected by an air-fuel ratio sensor provided in an exhaust passage of the internal combustion engine, includes an electronic control unit that normalizes the variation per unit time in air-fuel ratio with a constant associated with a rotation speed and load factor of the internal combustion engine and that, when the normalized value is smaller than a predetermined threshold, determines that a rich imbalance in air-fuel ratio has been detected among the cylinders.
US09074544B2 Control apparatus for vehicle
In a vehicle control apparatus that changes the travel characteristic of a vehicle on the basis of a change of the acceleration of the vehicle, when the travel characteristic is to be changed because the acceleration has changed, the amount of change of the travel characteristic to be changed is adjusted on the basis of the pre-change travel characteristic that is present immediately prior to the change of the acceleration.
US09074542B2 Method and system for controlling an engine during tunneling operation
Various methods and systems are provided for an engine in a vehicle, the engine having an intake and an exhaust. In one example, a method includes determining the vehicle is under tunneling operation in response to one or more of an intake gas constituent and an exhaust gas constituent. The method further comprises adjusting one or more operating parameters in response to the determination of tunneling operation.
US09074541B2 Method and system for control of an EGR valve during lean operation in a boosted engine system
Methods and systems are provided for reducing EGR estimation errors during lean engine operating conditions. During lean engine operation, EGR is disabled if the estimated exhaust air-fuel ratio becomes leaner than a lean threshold. The lean threshold is adjusted based on an upper limit of EGR errors that may be tolerated by the engine at a given engine speed and load.
US09074536B2 ACC reaction to target object turn offs
An adaptive cruise control (ACC) system for a vehicle. The ACC includes a vehicle speed sensor, a user interface, a steering angle sensor, a forward facing sensor, and an engine control unit (ECU). The vehicle speed sensor is configured to detect a speed of the vehicle and output an indication of the detected speed. The steering angle sensor is configured to provide an indication of the direction a driver is steering the vehicle. The forward facing sensor is configured to detect objects in front of the vehicle and to provide an indication of the objects. The ECU includes an adaptive cruise control (ACC) and is configured to receive the indications from the sensors, and to determine whether to continue following a target vehicle or to release the target vehicle and accelerate the vehicle to a cruising speed.
US09074529B2 Drive controlling apparatus and drive controlling method
According to a drive controlling method, the engine is driven in the forward direction by a predetermined reference torque, and the position of the rotation angle of the engine driven in the forward direction is judged based on information concerning whether the rotation angle has passed through the first top dead center in the forward movement of the engine, the amount of forward movement of the engine driven in the forward direction and the amount of reverse movement of the engine driven in the reverse direction.
US09074525B2 Apparatus, systems, and methods to address evaporative cooling and wet compression for engine thermal management
An apparatus including a reciprocating internal combustion engine with at least one piston and cylinder set and an intake stream; at least one liquid atomizer in fluid communication with the intake stream operable to provide a plurality of liquid droplets with a diameter less than 5 μm to the intake stream; and a controller where the controller is able to adjust an index of compression for the engine by: calculating a wet compression level in response to an engine operating limit and adjusting the at least one liquid atomizer in response to the wet compression level.
US09074524B2 Air supply system with two-stage roots blower
An air supply system is provided that uses two sets of rotors on a common set of shafts to boost air in two stages. The air supply system includes a housing and a first and a second rotatable shaft at least partially within the housing. A first and a second pair of rotors are included. Each pair of rotors has a first rotor supported for rotation on the first shaft and a second rotor supported for rotation on the second shaft. The housing has an inlet at the first pair of rotors, an outlet at the second pair of rotors, and an internal chamber between the first and the second pairs of rotors. Air flow from the inlet to the outlet thereby has a first pressure boost from the inlet to the internal chamber and a second pressure boost from the inlet chamber to the outlet.
US09074517B2 Vehicle coolant control valve
An object is to provide a vehicle coolant control valve having excellent response, small size and weight, and low power consumption. A coolant stop valve (vehicle coolant control valve) valve comprises a valve body for controlling the flow of a fluid, the valve body having a magnetic body; a coil spring (urging device) for moving the valve body in the closing direction; a valve seat capable of coming in contact with the valve body; and a solenoid for moving the valve body in the closing direction; wherein the valve body is moved in the opening direction by fluid pressure of a fluid discharged from a water pump (pump) during operation of the water pump (pump), against the movement force of the coil spring (urging device) in the closing direction.
US09074511B2 Reductant delivery unit for SCR systems having improved deposit resistance
A reductant delivery unit for selective catalytic reduction (SCR) after-treatment for vehicles includes a fluid injector having a fluid inlet and a fluid outlet. The fluid inlet receives a source of urea solution. An injector flange is coupled directly with an end of the fluid injector and has a flange outlet in fluid communication with the fluid outlet of the fluid injector. The flange outlet is associated with an exhaust gas flow path upstream of a SCR catalytic converter with the fluid injector controlling injection of urea solution into the exhaust gas flow path. Internal surface structure that defines the flange outlet includes a conical surface joined with at least one radius surface. The radius surface is constructed and arranged to resist formation of deposits on the internal surface structure due to break down of the urea solution.
US09074509B2 Control apparatus for vehicle
In a vehicle that includes an electrically heatable first catalyst EHC (140) in an exhaust passageway of an engine and a second catalyst UFC (145) disposed downstream of the EHC, an ECU (150) predicts that the load following starting of the engine will be higher than the load that corresponds to the exhaust gas purification capability of the EHC, and starts an engine motoring control of forcing the engine to turn via an electric motor (S32), if, during a pre-heating control of electrically controlling the EHC prior to starting of the engine, the demanded drive force F is greater than a predetermined value F1 and the amount of increase ΔF of the demanded drive force F per unit time is greater than a predetermined amount ΔF1.
US09074505B2 PM accumulation amount estimation device for DPF
A PM accumulation amount estimation unit 50 is provided with an exhaust amount computation unit 51 for computing PM exhaust amount which is discharged in an exhaust gas passage 3, and a passive regeneration amount computation unit 52 for computing a PM regeneration amount in a DPF 7, and is configured to estimate the PM accumulation amount in the DPF 7 from the difference between the PM exhaust amount computed by the exhaust amount computation unit 51 and the PM regeneration amount computed by the passive regeneration amount computation unit 52. The PM accumulation amount estimation unit 50 is further configured such that, when an abnormality is found in an airflow meter 31, the PM regeneration amount from NO2 is computed, and the PM accumulation amount in the DPF is estimated, without using the airflow amount measured by the airflow meter 31.
US09074504B2 Ceramic honeycomb structure and its production method
A ceramic honeycomb structure having a large number of flow paths partitioned by porous cell walls, the cell walls having porosity of 40-60%; pores opening on the cell wall surface having an opening area ratio (the total opening area of pores opening on the cell wall surface per a unit area) of 15% or more; the median opening diameter of the opening pores being 10 μm or more and less than 40 μm, when the opening diameter of each pore opening on the cell wall surface is expressed by an equivalent circle diameter (a diameter of a circle having the same area as the opening area of each pore); the density of pores having equivalent circle diameters of 10 μm or more and less than 40 μm being 350/mm2 or more; and the average circularity of pores having equivalent circle diameters of 10 μm or more and less than 40 μm being 1-2.
US09074503B2 Clean exhaust system and method for diesel engines of marine vessels
An emission control system (ECS) and associated method for facilitating the emulsification and/or dispersion of hydrocarbon, diesel particulate matter (DPM) and other pollutants from the exhaust gas output from a diesel engine of a marine vessel, includes a pump, a control system that controls the pump, and a product container containing an environmentally approved dispersing product. The ECS injects dispersing product into the engine's water cooling and exhaust system, for example, into the cooling water downstream of the engine and upstream of the spray ring or mixing elbow of the exhaust system. The environmentally approved dispersing product is drawn from the product container via the pump and injected at a controlled rate into the raw cooling water, and the dispersing product/cooling water mixture admixes with the exhaust gas resulting in emulsification and/or dispersion of the hydrocarbon, DPM and other pollutants present in the exhaust gas.
US09074500B2 Engine oil pump including plunge pool to mitigate surge noise
An engine oil pump, may include a plunge pool formed in a pump case and preventing a rapid change in pressure of oil when the oil may be discharged through an oil discharge portion that may be a cross-section expansion section by generating vortex flux when oil, which may be pumped into an oil pocket by rotation of an inner rotor and an outer rotor, temporarily collects before being discharged after passing a cross-sectional reduction section, and reducing the pressure by consuming the energy of the oil increasing in pressure by the vortex flux.
US09074496B2 Electromagnetic actuating device
An electromagnetic actuating device is being proposed for a valve train that can be adjusted on the cam side in an internal combustion engine, including a housing with a top part and a bottom part, whereby an electrically energizable solenoid device is embedded in the top part of the housing and an adjusting pin that is actuated by the solenoid device is mounted in the bottom part of the housing so as to move longitudinally, and also including a plug-in connector that is made of plastic and that runs on the top part of the housing in order to supply electricity to the solenoid device as well as a connecting flange that runs on the housing in order to attach the actuating device to the internal combustion engine. The plug-in connector and the connecting flange are integral parts of the top part of the housing made by encapsulating the solenoid device with plastic.
US09074495B2 Mechanically controllable valve-train assembly
A mechanically controllable valve-train assembly includes a plurality of gas exchange valves, at least two cylinders assigned to each of the gas exchange valves, and valve-lift adjusting devices which each comprise a rotatable eccentric shaft. The eccentric shaft comprises at least one cam element and circumferential control surfaces which comprise at least one eccentric member. The eccentric shaft is driven by a drive device to set various valve-lift positions. A transmission assembly assigned to each of the gas exchange valves is mounted in a cylinder head via a bearing device so as to be movable and is operatively connected to one of the valve-lift adjusting devices and to a camshaft. The at least one cam element is operatively connected to a spring-loaded tappet element and is arranged outside the circumferential control surfaces and at a level of a zero-lift position of the circumferential control surfaces.
US09074494B2 System and apparatus for controlling temperature in a heat recovery steam generator
A system that controls temperature in a heat recovery steam generator (HRSG). One heat recovery steam generator system may include a first exhaust path. The heat recovery steam generator system also may include a second exhaust path. The heat recovery steam generator system may include a first damper configured to selectively allow a portion of an exhaust to flow through the second exhaust path.
US09074493B2 Steam generation systems and methods for controlling operation of same
A method for controlling the operation of a steam generation system is provided. Fluid flow is channeled from at least one first boiler within at least one conduit. Fluid flow is added within the conduit from at least one second boiler. At least one operating condition within the first and second boilers is detected. A fluid pressure set point and/or a fluid temperature set point for each boiler is determined based on the operating condition detected for each boiler. A fluid pressure and/or a fluid temperature is maintained within the first and second boiler to be approximately equal to the fluid pressure set point and the fluid temperature set point for each boiler, respectively, prior to fluid flow being channeled and/or during the channeling of fluid flow from the first boiler and/or the second boiler within the conduit to a steam process and/or at least one steam turbine engine.
US09074490B2 Gas turbine
A gas turbine including a plurality of hook elements disposed one inside the other and designed substantially in the form of hollow cones or hollow cylinders, and including a stator blade support, is intended to enable an especially high efficiency while maintaining the greatest possible operating safety and operating life. To this end, at least one of the hook elements or the stator blade support has a substantially elliptical cross-sectional contour.
US09074484B2 Cooled rotor blade
A cooled turbine rotor blade for a gas turbine engine is provided. The engine has an annular flow path for conducting working fluid though the engine. The blade has an aerofoil section for extending across the annular flow path. The blade further has a root portion radially inward of the aerofoil section for joining the blade to a rotor disc of the engine. The blade further has a platform between the aerofoil section and the root portion. The platform extends laterally relative to the radial direction of the engine to form an inner boundary of the annular flow path and to provide a rear overhang portion which projects in use towards a corresponding platform of a downstream nozzle guide vane. The platform contains at least one internal elongate plenum chamber for receiving cooling air. The longitudinal axis of the plenum chamber is substantially aligned with the circumferential direction of the engine. The plenum chamber supplies the cooling air to a plurality of exit holes formed in the external surface of the rear overhang portion to cool that portion.
US09074475B2 Sealing element for a rotary piston machine
A sealing element for a rotary piston machine for sealing a lever is provided which is guided in an annular gap and is rotatable around a rotational axis, wherein the sealing element is rotationally symmetrical relative to the rotational axis, characterized in that the sealing element comprises a dynamic region and a static region, wherein the dynamic region has an axial sealing face being directed towards the annular gap, and a radial sealing face being directed towards the interior of an annular channel of the rotary piston machine, which annular channel surrounds the annular gap; and wherein the static region serves to fix the sealing element to the rotary piston machine, and wherein there is formed in the static region a channel, to which a fluid can be supplied.
US09074474B2 Pump, in particular a high-pressure fuel pump
The pump comprises at least one pump element which has a pump piston that is at least indirectly driven in a stroke movement by a drive shaft. A plunger having a plunger body is arranged between the drive shaft and the pump piston and is movably guided in a receiving device in the direction of the stroke movement of the pump piston and is supported on the drive shaft by means of a support element. Lubricant is supplied to the receiving device via a supply line and lubricant is conducted out of the receiving device via a discharge line into the plunger body to the support element. An annular gap filter is provided between the plunger body and the receiving device and is arranged between the supply line for supplying lubricant to the receiving device and the discharge line for discharging lubricant into the plunger body.
US09074471B2 Insert with offset apex for a cutter bit and a cutter bit having the same
A non-rotatable cutter bit for mining and construction operations having a central longitudinal axis extending therethrough includes an insert at one end. The insert has a central longitudinal axis and the apex is offset from the central longitudinal axis to provide an elongated rake face. With the insert mounted within the cutter body, the central longitudinal axis of the cutter body intersects with the apex such that the cutter body may be easily exchanged with conventional cutter bodies. The insert may also be mounted directly to the body without using an insert holder. The insert also has applications in oil and gas drilling operations.
US09074468B1 Method for real-time streaming of well logging data with self-aligning satellites
A method for providing real-time streaming drilling data transmission services using self-aligning satellites. The method can include receiving and transmitting the drilling data using client devices, radio boxes, a processor, a local network, a satellite network, a router and switch, a satellite modem, and self-aligning satellite dishes. The drilling data can be transmitted to a remote network operation center and a remote central server. The remote central server can real-time stream the remote client devices.
US09074465B2 Methods for allocating commingled oil production
Methods and related systems are described for real-time wellsite production allocation analysis. Spectroscopic in-situ measurements are made in the vicinity of a wellsite of a produced fluid from one or more boreholes. The produced fluid includes in a co-mingled state, at least a first fluid component from a first production zone and a second fluid component from a second production zone. An allocation is estimated in real-time for at least the first fluid component in the produced fluid based at least in part on the spectroscopic in-situ measurements. The in-situ measurements can be several types, for example: (1) absorption of electromagnetic radiation having wavelengths in the range of ultraviolet, visible and/or infrared light, (2) X-ray fluorescence spectroscopy measurements, (3) electromagnetic scattering spectroscopic measurements such as Raman spectroscopy measurements, (4) NMR spectroscopy measurements, and (5) terahertz time-domain spectroscopy measurements.
US09074464B2 Verification of swelling in a well
A method of verifying swelling of a swellable material in a well can include connecting a transmitter to a sensor which senses a parameter indicative of degree of swelling of the swellable material, and conveying a receiver into an interior of a tubular string. The transmitter transmits to the receiver an indication of the degree of swelling of the swellable material. A packer swelling verification system can include a swellable material which swells in a well, and a well tool which is conveyed to the packer in the well. The well tool receives an indication of a degree of swelling of the swellable material. A method of verifying whether a swellable material has swollen in a well can include positioning a conductor proximate the swellable material, whereby the conductor parts in response to swelling of the swellable material, and detecting whether the conductor has parted.
US09074460B2 Method of analyzing a petroleum reservoir
A method of evaluating a gradient of a composition of materials in a petroleum reservoir, comprising sampling fluids from a well in the petroleum reservoir in a logging operation, measuring an amount of contamination in the sampled fluids, measuring the composition of the sampling fluids using a downhole fluid analysis, measuring an asphaltene content of the sampling fluids at different depths; and fitting the asphaltene content of the sampling fluids at the different depths to a simplified equation of state during the logging operation to determine the gradient of the composition of the materials in the petroleum reservoir.
US09074459B2 System and method for simulation of downhole conditions in a well system
A method for simulating downhole conditions is described. The method includes receiving configuration information about a well system in a production configuration, the well system including annular fluids disposed therein and receiving heat source information associated with a heat source disposed within the well system. The method also includes simulating temperature transfer in the well system during a production scenario based at least on the configuration information and the heat source information and predicting pressure buildup in the annular fluids based on the simulated temperature transfer in the well system.
US09074455B2 Systems and methods for continuous and near continuous drilling
The present disclosure provides drilling and tripping equipment packages and control schemes and methods using two or more lifting systems that operate simultaneously and continuously in a synchronized manner such that the feeding of tubular into or out of a well bore is achieved with continuous or near continuous movement, without the need for periodic interruptions. The drilling and tripping equipment packages and control schemes are also able to rotate the tubular in the well bore with continuous speed and torque sufficient for both drilling and back-reaming operations. The drilling and tripping equipment package and control scheme is additionally able to circulate drilling fluid into the internal bore of the tubular with sufficient pressure and flow to facilitate both drilling and back-reaming operations, with minimal interruption to circulation.
US09074452B2 Actively energized dynamic seal system
A technique for subsea intervention operations utilizes a retrievable dynamic seal system. The technique provides an improved dynamic seal system that is retrievable from a subsea installation. A retrievable dynamic seal is deployed with a tool string on a conveyance and positioned in or at the subsea installation. The retrievable dynamic seal is then actuated to form a seal with the conveyance by mechanically manipulating a seal element to force the seal element into sealing engagement with the conveyance.
US09074450B2 Blowout preventer and method of using same
The techniques herein relate to a blowout preventer a tubular of a wellbore penetrating a subterranean formation. The blowout preventer includes a housing having a bore therethrough, a segment carrier positionable in the housing, and a piston. The segment carrier includes a carrier ring for receiving the tubular and a plurality of segments pivotally movable radially thereabout. The piston is operatively connectable to the plurality of segments and actuatable for moving the plurality of segments between a disengaged and an engaged position about the tubular.
US09074448B2 Pin-actuated lock ring arrangement
In a wellhead near the top of an oil and gas well, a locking ring assembly for locking an inner tubular wellhead member axially relative to an outer tubular wellhead member. The inner tubular member has a circumferential recess that contains a locking ring. After insertion of the inner tubular member into the outer tubular member, actuating pins radially expand the locking ring so that it partially leaves the circumferential recess and engages a corresponding recess in the outer tubular member. The pins may be deployed by a seal inserted above the inner tubular member.
US09074445B2 DC powered subsea inverter
There is provided a system and method for driving AC powered subsea loads. Disclosed embodiments include a system having a rectifier and DC filter configured to be located at a surface vessel and configured to convert AC power supplied by a surface AC power source into DC power. The DC power is transmitted from the surface vessel to an inverter configured to be located remotely from the surface vessel at a subsea location. The subsea inverter converts the transmitted DC power back into AC power, which may then be utilized for driving one or more AC powered subsea loads.
US09074444B2 Frac adapter for wellhead
There is provided a frac adapter configured to couple a frac tree to a wellhead component. The frac adapter may couple the frac tree to a casing head without a tubing head, thereby enabling the well to be fractured before the tubing head is installed. As a result, the tubing head used in well production may be pressure-rated for production pressures rather than for fracing pressures. The frac adapter may be coupled to or integral with the frac tree. In addition, a union-nut coupling may be employed to quickly and easily assemble and disassemble the frac adapter from the wellhead component, such as the casing head. The union-nut coupling may further enable the components to be pressure-tested before the fracturing process is initiated.
US09074440B2 Shaker and degasser combination
A system for separating components from a slurry of drilling fluid and drill cuttings on a shaker screen having an upper side and a lower side within a shaker. The system also has a pressure differential generator to pull an effective volume of air through a section of the shaker screen to enhance the flow of drilling fluid through the section of the shaker screen and the separation of drilling fluid from drill cuttings and further maintain an effective flow of drill cuttings off the shaker. A method of separating components of a slurry of drilling fluids and solids has the steps of delivering the slurry to a shaker, flowing the slurry over a first screen and applying an effective amount of vacuum to a first portion of the first screen to remove the drilling fluids from the slurry without stalling the solids on the first screen.
US09074437B2 Actuation and release tool for subterranean tools
An actuator for a subterranean tool is releasably retained by a collet. The actuation system features opposing actuation pistons with ports communicating to the tubing. The spaced ports are sequentially straddled for initial setting and a subsequent release using a predetermined applied pressure. The applied pressure overcomes the retaining force of the collet and actuates a one of two opposed pistons to set the tool, which is preferably a liner hanger. Upon shifting the actuation tool to communication to another port leading to an actuating piston pushing in another direction with applied pressure releases the tool and re-latches a retaining collet. The tool can be set, released and repositioned for another cycle in the same trip in the hole.
US09074435B2 Earth-boring tools having shaped cutting elements
Cutting elements include a volume of superabrasive material. The volume of superabrasive material comprises a front-cutting surface, an end-cutting surface, a cutting edge, and lateral side surfaces extending between and intersecting each of the front-cutting surface and the end-cutting surface. An earth-boring tool may comprise a bit body and at least one cutting element attached to the bit body. Methods of forming cutting elements comprise forming a volume of superabrasive material comprising forming a front-cutting surface, an end-cutting surface, a cutting edge, and lateral side surfaces extending between and intersecting each of the front-cutting surface and the end-cutting surface. Methods of forming earth-boring tools comprise forming a cutting element and attaching the cutting element to an earth-boring tool.
US09074432B1 Coil tubing injector using linear bearings
A coiled tube injection drive assembly having a pair of opposed, upwardly extending movable carriages positioned in opposed fashion so that portions of tubing may be vertically disposed and engaged between the movable carriages, each of the movable carriages comprising a respective gripper chain and associated bearing chain assembly, where the bearing chain is mounted on sprockets that are coaxially disposed between spaced apart gripper chain sprocket wheels so that the bearing sprockets are mounted about the same shafts as the gripper chain sprockets, without being directly mounted to rotate with those shafts. Other assembly features and related methods are also described.
US09074429B2 Drill bits with axially-tapered waterways
Implementations of the present invention include drilling tools having axially-tapered waterways that can increase flushing and bit life, while also decreasing clogging. According to some implementations of the present invention, the waterways can be radially tapered in addition to being axially tapered. The axially-tapered waterways can include notches extending into the cutting face of the drilling tools and/or slots enclosed within the crown of the drilling tools. Implementations of the present invention also include drilling systems including drilling tools having axially-tapered waterways, and methods of forming drilling tools having axially-tapered waterways.
US09074428B2 Connector for steel catenary riser to flexible line without stress-joint or flex-joint
A flexible element in a basket-like structure supports a Steel Catenary Riser (SCR) on a subsurface buoy or “artificial seabed.” A riser collar transfers the tension load of riser to a compressive load on the radial bearing. Relative motion between the subsurface buoy and the riser is accommodated by the flexible element. A flexible jumper is connected to the riser for fluid transfer. Motions of the riser relative to the subsurface buoy are accommodated by the flexible jumper. In this way, a transition from an SCR to a flexible jumper may be accomplished without the need for either a stress-joint or a flex-joint.
US09074423B2 Method and system for inserting a pipe into an underground borehole
The invention relates to a method for inserting a pipe (4) via a pit (1) into an underground borehole, wherein the pipe is flattened before entering the pit, and wherein the pipe is redirected within the pit in the direction of the axis of the borehole, so as to re-deform the pipe before entering the borehole.
US09074419B2 Window covering multi-lift system
The present invention provides a top down-bottom up shade multi-lift system for a plurality of windows. The multi-lift system comprises a master shade and one or more slave shades. The master shade comprises two motors. The salve shades do not include any motor. Rather, the salve shades are motorized via the motors of the master shade.
US09074416B1 Spacers for insulated glass
This invention provides a sealing spacer for spacing apart two window panes to form a window assembly. The spacer has an elongated, flexible strip having opposed edge surfaces and opposed side surfaces. The opposed edge surfaces undulate with crests and troughs. The spacer has an activatable sealant for directly sealingly securing the flexible strip to each of the two window panes. The activatable sealant is on each of the opposed side surfaces of the flexible strip, and extends into at least a portion of the opposed side surfaces of the flexible strip. The invention also provides methods for making the spacer and window assembly.
US09074415B2 Spacer bar for a multiple panel glazing unit and method of making a spacer bar and a multiple panel glazing unit
A multiple panel glazing unit including at least two glass spacer bars (2) of toughened glass each having, optionally, opposite sides that are chamfered towards a common end surface (8) and which are sealed to the glass panels (22, 24) of multiple panel glazing unit by a transparent or translucent sealant (38). The use of toughened glass spacers allows the manufacture of multiple panel glazing units to meet given operating requirements, e.g. the ability to withstand externally applied forces such as varying differential air pressure of a given magnitude across the unit, with a smaller inter-glazing panel spacing than if glass spacers that are not toughened are used.
US09074414B1 Roll up guard curtain
A roll up guard curtain is disclosed having: a vertical frame structure having a base configured for a floor surface, first and second side supports each coupled to an opposing end of the base, perpendicular to the base, and extending upwardly, and an opening defined as a planar area within the frame structure between the first and second side supports and the base; a drum disposed within the base; a curtain disposed upon the drum and configured to extend upwardly from the drum by a curtain bar and retract downwardly to the drum; and a drive mechanism configured to extend rapidly the curtain upwardly from the floor surface and retract rapidly the curtain downwardly to the floor surface, to vertically raise and lower the curtain within the vertical frame structure, thereby to fill the opening when extended and to provide a rapidly extendable and retractable protective barrier.
US09074410B2 Tassel for blind cords
This tassel comprises at least a first piece and a second piece, both independent, and attached to respective free ends of operating cords for blinds; and present on the facing surfaces are magnetically attracted first halves and second halves suitable for establishing a retention of tassel parts in a mounting position, to allow said parts of the tassel to separate when a force superior to the force of the magnetic attraction of said first and second halves is applied between the two cords; characterized in that the magnetically attracted first halves are mounted in a protruding position with respect to the surface of said first part.
US09074405B2 Door for refrigerator and method for manufacturing the same, metal container and method for manufacturing the same, and apparatus and method for processing metal sheet
Provided is a door for a refrigerator. The door includes an outer door manufactured by pressing and deforming a metal sheet. The outer door includes a first surface, second to fifth surfaces extending from the first surface, and a plurality of flanges extending from the second to fifth surfaces. The first to fifth surfaces are integrated with each other and defined based on the pressing and deforming of the metal sheet. A door liner is coupled to surfaces of the plurality of flanges of the outer door, and an insulation material is disposed in a space defined between the door liner and the outer door.
US09074403B1 Cashbox for use with a computer tablet
An apparatus for the storage of currency and coinage includes a hinged lid pivotally attached to a bottom portion. An inner portion of the lid is able to receive an IPAD™ or other tablet. A first inner hinged plate secures the IPAD™ or tablet in position and includes a center opening that allows viewing of a display screen. A cash drawer that includes slanted currency slots is removable from the bottom portion. A second inner hinged plate covers and prevents viewing of the contents of the cash drawer. A front lock secures the hinged top to the bottom portion. A top lock secures the first inner hinged plate to the hinged top. An arcuate opening in the first inner hinged plate provides access to an on/off switch. An extension plug passes through a hole in a sidewall of the hinged top for connection of a card swiping device.
US09074400B2 Oven door opening and closing device
An oven door opening and closing device includes at least one hinge connectable to an oven door and to an oven housing for realizing a predetermined pivoting opening and closing movement of the oven door relative to the oven housing between an open and a closed position. At least one closing force generating device generates a predetermined closing force, and a kinematic device is coupled to the hinge and to a moveable element in such a manner that the predetermined pivoting opening and closing movement of the hinge is converted into a predetermined reciprocating opening and closing movement of the moveable element. At least one damping system has a damper for generating a damping force which counteracts the closing movement of the movable element within a predetermined section, which corresponds to a predetermined angle section of the pivoting closing movement of the hinge shortly prior to the closed position.
US09074399B2 Hydraulic hinge for a glass door
A hydraulic hinge for a glass door has a fixing plate, a rotating seat, a pivot and a buffer module. The rotating seat is combined with the fixing plate and has a first oil passage and a second oil passage. The pivot is combined with the fixing plate and the rotating seat. The buffer module is mounted in the rotating seat and has a valve having a circular groove selectively communicating with the second oil passage. A glass door can be pivoted relative to the rotating seat. The valve is structurally simple, thereby simplifying the manufacturing process. With the valve and the second oil passage, the velocity of closing the glass door gradually increases from low speed to high speed.
US09074398B2 Vehicle door structure
A vehicle door structure in which it is possible to prevent a slide opening and closing door panel from being uncoupled from a swing opening and closing door panel when the swing opening and closing door panel is opened, is provided. A vehicle door structure 10 includes a lock mechanism 22 that locks a slide door panel 14 to a swing door panel 16 when the swing door panel 16 is opened. The lock mechanism 22 is composed of a locking part 50 which is provided so as to be movable backward and forward along a direction in which the slide door panel 14 and the swing door panel 16 overlap each other according to opening and closing of the swing door panel 16, and a protrusion 60 which is provided on the slide door panel 14, and is locked by the locking part 50 when the swing door panel 16 is opened. The locking part 50 moves forward to the slide door panel 14 side, to lock the protrusion 60 when the swing door panel 16 is opened.
US09074396B2 Flexible door stop
A door stop for mounting on a door, the door stop having one or more body segments. A first body segment of the door stop is connected to a second body segment of the door stop via an elastic connecting member. The first body segment positioned to face a door frame, is configured such that it may be extended downward in relation to the rest of the door stop, thereby allowing the door to close. A handle attached to the first body segment provides users with a structure to extend said first body segment downward. The second body segment, configured to be mounted on a door such that such segment faces a wall, serves to protect the door and wall in instances when the door may be opened too widely. The door stop may be removably or fixedly mounted to a door.
US09074394B2 Housing with rear face intended to be fixed to a support
Equipment comprising a box (14) having a rear face (15) including a setback (19) that is for releasably receiving a fastening support and that is fitted with a catch (2) that is movable between a position in which it projects into the setback (19) and a retracted position, wherein the catch is secured to a first end of a rod (3) that has a second end (10) visible in the front face (18) of the box and that is mounted in the box (14) to pivot so as to drive the catch (2) between its two positions.
US09074393B2 Motor vehicle lock
A motor vehicle lock having the locking elements lock catch and pawl (1) and having a lock mechanism (2), it being possible for the lock mechanism (2) to be moved into different functional states such as “unlocked”, “locked”, “anti-theft locked” or “child-safety locked” and with the lock mechanism (2), for this purpose, having at least one functional element (3) which can be adjusted into corresponding functional positions. The invention proposes mounting the functional element (3) in a subregion, in particular an end region, of the functional element (3) with a bearing arrangement (3a) such that the rest of the functional element (3) can be adjusted both in the lateral direction and in the vertical direction, in each case substantially perpendicular to its longitudinal extent, in relation to a reference plane (R) in any case.
US09074392B2 Multi-point exit door lock and method of installation
A multi-point exit door lock and method of installing same, the door lock including main lock and upper and lower lock modules. a push type panic bar, lock bolts associated with each of the lock modules, and a pull-type cable of predetermined length having its ends fixed to the main lock module and to each of the upper and lower lock modules, whereby pushing the panic bar opens all lock modules. The method of installing the new lock includes a template which is temporarily mounted to the exit door and rotated to successive positions for automatically and accurately marking all the drill holes for mounting all the lock modules at relative distances apart corresponding to the predetermined distances between them pre-established by the cables of predetermined length fixedly attached to the various lock modules.
US09074389B2 Lock apparatus for opening/closing member
A lock apparatus includes a housing, a rotor having a bearing portion, rods, a return spring, and a knob having a holding portion and a presser element. The presser element is formed so as to overlap the bearing portion with a predetermined overlap width. When the rods are kept engaged with the engagement portions, a rotating center of the knob is positioned closer to the holding portion than a contact point between the bearing portion and the presser element.
US09074387B2 Portable tombstone
A portable tombstone includes a main body having a first cavity and a second cavity. The first cavity is defined by an interior surface of the main body, and is filled with a weighting media to improve stability. The second cavity is defined by an exterior surface of the main body, and holds a capsule configured to contain ashes or mementos. The first cavity and the capsule are sealingly enclosed with a plug and a cap, respectively. The portable tombstone is molded from a polymeric material having a stone-like appearance.
US09074386B2 Cleaning robot and underwater sediment cleaning apparatus and method
A cleaning robot capable of cleaning a water tank in an unmanned manner and an underwater sediment cleaning apparatus and method are provided. The cleaning robot includes a body put into a water tank, a driver supporting the body and moving the body, a suction part arranged in front of the body and sucking contaminated water containing sediment in the water tank, and a tilting part supported by the body to support the suction part and rotating the suction part on an axis corresponding to the direction across the moving direction of the body.
US09074385B2 Pool cleaning vehicle with mechanism for skewing an axle
A self directed pool cleaning vehicle comprising a body carrying water inlet and outlet ports with the inlet port being located on the bottom of the body with the body containing a filter is described. A drive mechanism propels the vehicle in two generally opposed directions. Two axles which each carry two wheels support the body and control its direction of movement. One axle is mounted to the body via slots that extend in the directions of motion such that this axle can move toward either end of the slots. A steering structure is provided with a portion that moves to close a portion of one of the slots and can be locked in a position that prevents one end of an axle from traversing its slot. Thus when this axle is the trialing axle it is held at other than a right angle to the two generally opposed directions.
US09074384B2 Combined swimming pool ladder structure
A combination ladder assembly and pool includes a pool having a side wall and a support member positionable along an inner surface of the side wall of the pool. The support member may include at least one aperture. Additionally, the combination ladder assembly and pool further includes a ladder positionable along an outer surface of the side wall of the pool. The ladder may be removably coupled to the support member. The ladder further includes at least one leg having a first end and a second end and a plurality of steps. The plurality of steps may be coupled to the leg of the ladder between the first end and the second end of the leg. The ladder may be moveable between a use position, permitting ingress into the pool, and a storage position. When the ladder is in the use position, the leg of the ladder is supported by the support member. When the ladder is in the storage position, the ladder extends from the aperture of the support member to cantilever from the support member.
US09074379B2 Hybrid insulated concrete form and method of making and using same
The invention comprises a product. The product comprises a foam insulating panel having a first primary surface and an opposite second primary surface. A removable concrete form is spaced from the foam insulating panel and a concrete receiving space is defined between the second primary surface of the foam insulating panel and the removable concrete form. A method of using a hybrid insulated concrete form is also disclosed.
US09074372B2 Connector assemblies for connecting panels
In one embodiment, a connector assembly comprises: a connector; and a pair of side collectors, each comprising a connector engagement region having a size and geometry to mate with the connector so as to hold ends of two adjacent panels together; and a panel engagement region comprising a receiving area and having a size to attach onto an edge of the panel; and a clip, wherein the clip has a base that can be attached to a support, an engagement, and a stem extending therebetween, wherein the engagement has an extension projecting from a side of the engagement, wherein the panel engagement region further comprises an opening in a joint wall on a side of the panel engagement region opposite the receiving area, wherein the opening is configured to receive the extension of the engagement.
US09074371B2 Load bearing structural assembly
According to one aspect of the present disclosure, a load bearing structural assembly includes an outer loop member; an inner loop member spaced apart from and sized smaller than the outer loop member; and a web assembly coupled to and extending between the outer loop member and the inner loop member, the web assembly comprising a plurality of arcuately formed web members.
US09074370B2 Load transfer device
A load transfer device is provided to connect concrete elements including, but not limited to, sandwich and double wall panel wythes, roof, floor, balcony and canopy members, and pavement. The device may be used to connect and transfer loads between the components of sandwich and double wall panels. The device includes two load transfer members positioned at an angle with respect to one another. Additionally provided are a retention housing for retaining one or more load transfer members at their angled positions and a depth locating means for retaining one or more load transfer members at their proper depth. Also provided are sandwich wall panels and double wall panels employing the load transfer device and methods for manufacturing sandwich wall panels and double wall panels employing the disclosed load transfer device.
US09074365B2 Removable bulkheads for building fixtures
The present invention is directed towards a series of removable bulkheads which surround and protect immovable building fixtures such as sprinkler and plumbing lines, heating and ventilation ducts, electrical and telecommunications wiring. A single bulkhead is generally comprised of a vertical panel and a horizontal panel. The bulkheads attach to preexisting ceilings and walls and provide a quick and cost effective method of concealing fixtures and allow easy access to renovate or repair the fixtures.
US09074362B1 Construction blocks and systems
A semi-interlocking construction block system may include blocks having prism shaped male and female fittings configured for semi-interlocking interaction. When mated the male and female fittings may engage along their respective interfacing upper bases and lower ends of their respective lateral side faces. Gaps may be defined between upper ends of their respective lateral side faces. The fittings may include arcuate edges which may be quarter rounded.
US09074361B2 Sanitary washing apparatus
According to one embodiment, a sanitary washing apparatus includes a nozzle including a jetting port and configured to squirt water from the jetting port and to cause the water to impinge on female private parts. The nozzle is operable to switch between a first jetting and a second jetting. The first jetting squirts the water from the jetting port to cause the water to impinge on a first range of the female private parts, and the second jetting squirts the water from the jetting port more diffusively than the first jetting to cause the water to impinge evenly on a second range wider than the first range without moving the jetting port. The water is squirted so that flow velocity in the first range of the first jetting is slower than flow velocity in the second range of the second jetting.
US09074360B2 Flow channel opening/closing apparatus
To provide a flow channel opening/closing apparatus that can keep the instantaneous flow rate of supply water, quickly open and close a main valve for starting and stopping water supply and be downsized. A flush valve CV, which is such a flow channel opening/closing apparatus, incorporates constant flow rate keeping part that operates to keep constant the main flow rate of water flowing from a primary-side internal flow channel 20 to a secondary-side internal flow channel 30, and the constant flow rate keeping part has a constant flow rate valve body 44 and a constant flow rate valve seat, operates to adjust the distance between the constant flow rate valve body 44 and the constant flow rate valve seat, and is configured as an integral valve member including a main valve body 42 and the constant flow rate valve body 44.
US09074358B2 Drain assembly for a bathtub and the like
A drain assembly including a drain pipe with a threaded portion and a nut. The drain pipe includes a first end, an elbow portion, and a second end. The first end includes an annular flange and the threaded portion. To interconnect the drain assembly to a bathtub, the second end of the drain pipe is inserted through a drain port of the tub until the annular flange abuts a bottom wall of the tub. The nut is then threaded onto the threaded portion of the drain pipe to secure the drain pipe to the bathtub. The second end of the drain pipe is then interconnected to drain plumbing.
US09074357B2 Mounting bracket for electronic kitchen faucet
An electrically non-conductive mounting assembly is disclosed for coupling an electronic faucet to a sink deck. The mounting assembly includes a spout insulator configurable to attach to a delivery spout and a mounting bracket configured to attach to an underside of the sink deck.
US09074356B2 Systems and methods for water conservation
A system is described including a diverter valve operable to divert at least a portion of water flowing through a first water line to a first volume; a first float valve controlling water flow from a second water line to a second volume; and a second float valve controlling water flow from the first volume to the second volume.
US09074351B2 Retainer systems for ground engaging tools
Disclosed are various exemplary embodiments of a lock for a ground engaging tool. The lock may include a head portion and a C-shaped portion extending from the head portion. The C-shaped portion may define a lock slot for receiving a portion of a support member to be locked with the ground engaging tool. The C-shaped portion may also include an outer surface configured to be rotatably received in an inner surface of a retainer bushing. At least a portion of the head portion and the C-shaped portion may include a surface coated with a friction-reducing material.
US09074346B2 Work machine and control method for work machines
In a work machine, a control unit controls a pilot control valve for controlling the opening area of a first direction switch valve in executing the combined operation to be less than or equal to that in executing a single operation. The combined operation represents an operation of simultaneously operating first and second actuators. The single operation represents an operation of operating only the first actuator. Further, the control unit determines the opening area of the first direction switch valve in the combined operation based on a hydraulic pressure detected by a hydraulic pressure detector unit.
US09074344B1 Work vehicle
A work vehicle includes an engine, a diesel particulate filter apparatus, a connecting pipe, and a selective catalytic reduction apparatus. The diesel particulate filter apparatus treats exhaust from the engine. The connecting pipe connects the engine and the diesel particulate filter apparatus. The connecting pipe extends obliquely downward toward the diesel particulate filter apparatus from a connecting position with the engine. The selective catalytic reduction apparatus treats the exhaust from the engine. The selective catalytic reduction apparatus is arranged above the connecting pipe.
US09074342B2 Work vehicle
The work vehicle includes a main body frame, a counterweight, a first beam member, and a first cover member. The counterweight is placed at a rear portion of the main body frame. The counterweight forms a concave portion that is recessed rearwardly from a front surface side of the counterweight and extends to a top surface of the counterweight. The first beam member extends across the concave portion and is attached to both side ends of the counterweight. The first cover member is provided on a top surface of a first frame portion including the first beam member and the concave portion.
US09074338B2 Manhole liner and method of using the same
A manhole liner and a method of using the same are provided. The manhole liner is sized substantially equally to the largest diameter of the manhole, so that the liner does not have to stretch to be pressed against the manhole wall. Additionally, the liner is impregnated with a resinous material capable of curing and hardening. A bladder, preferably stretchable circumferentially and having a diameter less than the smallest diameter of the manhole, is inserted into the liner. The bladder is expanded to press the liner against the wall of the manhole to dispense resinous material from the liner, while the liner is able to fold over itself in areas having a diameter less than the original diameter of the liner. Because the bladder stretches to produce a smooth outside surface, the resinous material will migrate to areas in the folds and will cure with a smooth interior surface.
US09074337B2 Gabion system
A gabion system is disclosed which includes a gabion (1) for use in protecting military or civilian installations from weapons assault or from elemental forces such as flood waters, lava flows, avalanches, soil instability, slope erosion and the like. The gabion (1) comprises opposed side walls (2, 3) connected together at spaced intervals by a plurality of partition walls (4,5,6) such that spaces between neighboring pairs of partition walls define, together with the side walls (2,3), compartments (7, 8, 9) of the gabion, adjacent side and partition walls being connected to one another by pivotal connections (41) enabling the gabion to be folded between fully flattened and deployed configurations, the pivotal connections allowing the gabion to fold concertina-wise for storage or transport. The gabion system also comprises a fill material container (1001; 1005; 1015) configured to fit into and extend throughout a compartment (7, 8, 9) when the fill material container (1001; 1005; 1015) is loaded with fill material (1010; 1011; 1018).
US09074336B2 Form part for a frost protected shallow footing system
A permanent frost protected shallow foundation footing for a building is assembled from a plurality of form parts arranged in a chain that is partially below ground level to form a foundation perimeter. The form parts are made of a lightweight material such as insulating foam material shaped as an elongated sectional unit with an overhang part overhanging a cavity part of an interior cavity. The interior cavity has an opening for receiving a concrete pour concurrent with a concrete pour of a floor. Open ends of the assembled sectional units abut each other in end-to-end alignment to form an elongated cavity inside the perimeter chain of form parts that is filled with concrete. The overhang part may have a foot shape that fits inside the interior cavity of another form part that may also have a foot shape for compact storage or transport prior to assembly.
US09074334B2 Post driver and puller
A post driving and removal system comprising a base frame for mounting on a mobile base, a gripping apparatus mounted on the base frame and configured to selectively grip a post, and a driver apparatus mounted on the base frame and configured to impact a post held by the gripping apparatus.
US09074331B2 Retractable cord queue barrier system
A retractable cord queue barrier system uses a spring-biased pulley refraction mechanism acting on a stretchable cord. A constant-force coiled metal spring is used, such that the retraction force on the cord does not increase as the cord is extended—as it would for a helical spring governed by Hooke's Law. The use of a constant-force spring avoids abrupt snap-back of the extended cord when released, as well as the need for excessive pulling force on the cord as it approaches full extension, which tends to cause the stanchion to tip over. Dynamic balance between the contractive force of the stretchable cord and the retractive force of the constant-force spring achieves a taut but not unyielding tension in the interconnecting cords between stanchions.
US09074330B2 Device for incorporating and distributing sand and aggregate in synthetic grass
An apparatus to distribute materials in an artificial lawn includes a row of prongs joined to a transverse support, the row of prongs being configured to lift the blades of the artificial lawn, thereby enhancing penetration of the materials between the blades. The apparatus is configured to angularly preadjust the transverse support according to multiple adjustment positions so as to vary pressure of the prongs on the lawn; and a row of brushes configured to improve distribution of materials remaining on a surface of the lawn after the passage of the row of prongs.
US09074322B2 Paper coating or binding formulations and methods of making and using same
A paper coating or binding formulation comprises an aqueous polymer dispersion comprising a copolymer obtained by polymerization of an unsaturated monomer and a carbohydrate derived compound and a tetrasulfonate-based fluorescent whitening agent. The carbohydrate derived compound can be selected from the group consisting of dextrins, maltodextrins, and mixtures thereof. Methods of preparing a paper coating or binding formulation and improving the whitening properties of paper are also provided. Furthermore, paper including a copolymer obtained by polymerization of an unsaturated monomer and a carbohydrate derived compound and a tetrasulfonate-based fluorescent whitening agent is also disclosed.
US09074321B2 Fibrous pulp and use thereof in a composite
A composition comprises (i) an elastomer, (ii) from 1 to 5 volume % of fibrous pulp, the pulp having a specific surface area of from 7 to 11 sq.m./g and the fiber having a fiber length of from 0.5 to 1.1 mm, a tensile modulus of from 2.5 to 130 GPa, and a tensile strength of from 1 to 3 GPa, and (iii) from 5 to 14 volume % of yield-strain promoter in the form of fibers, needles, powder or platelets, wherein the composition has a yield strain of at least 70%, an elongation at break of at least 200%, and a yield stress of at least 4 MPa.
US09074317B2 Artificial leather and method for manufacturing the same
Artificial leather with optimal elongation and a method for manufacturing the same is disclosed, the artificial leather comprising a non-woven fabric with micro-fibers and a polymeric elastomer impregnated into the non-woven-fiber, wherein the polymeric elastomer is 20 to 30% by weight with respect to a total weight of the artificial leather, and a density of the non-woven fabric is within the range of 0.160 to 0.250 g/cm3, wherein the artificial leather can be easily used for the goods with lots of flexed regions, for example, the headliner of vehicle.
US09074308B2 Battery separator comprising a polyolefin nanofilament porous sheet
Disclosed is a highly safe battery separator, in particular a separator for a lithium ion secondary battery, which reduces internal resistance, achieves good ionic conductivity, prevents passing of electrode active materials, and also prevents electrical short circuit by controlling deposition of lithium metal (dendrite). Also disclosed is a means for stably producing the battery separator with high productivity. Specifically disclosed are: a battery separator which is composed of a porous polyolefin sheet that is formed from a group of polyolefin nanofilaments that have an average filament diameter of less than 1 μm and a filament size distribution of 0.2 or less; and a means for producing the battery separator.
US09074307B2 Loom and weaving method using the same
A loom, containing a first and second fill yarn-holding conveyor rods which are disposed at left and right sides of an opening formed by multiple side-by-side warp yarns that run in one direction at a prescribed speed and are repeatedly inserted into the opening toward center of a weaving width and withdrawn, a single fill yarn conveyor selectively gripped by the ends of the first or second fill yarn-holding conveyor rod, a first and second rod operating units which cause the first and the second fill yarn-holding conveyor rods to be inserted into the opening in a synchronized state and to be withdrawn from the opening, and a first and second fill yarn conveyor gripping and releasing units which are fixed to opposite ends of the first and the second fill yarn-holding conveyor rods and alternately repeat operations of gripping, releasing, and delivering the fill yarn conveyor.
US09074305B2 Method for delivering an active agent
A method for delivering an active agent is provided.
US09074298B2 Processes for production of silicon ingot, silicon wafer and epitaxial wafer, and silicon ingot
A process for production of a silicon ingot, by which a silicon ingot exhibiting a low resistivity even in the top portion can be produced. The process for the production of a silicon ingot includes withdrawing a silicon seed crystal from a silicon melt to grow a silicon single crystal, with the silicon seed crystal and the silicon melt containing dopants of the same kind. The process includes the dipping step of dipping a silicon seed crystal containing a dopant in a specific concentration in a silicon melt in such a manner that the temperature difference between both falls within the range of 50 to 97K, and the growing step of growing a silicon single crystal withdrawn after the dipping to form a silicon ingot, the growing step being conducted by using a single crystal puller provided with a thermal shield plate for shielding against radiant heat emitted from the silicon melt and controlling the distance between the thermal shield plate and the silicon melt within a specific range.
US09074297B2 Method and device for manufacturing semiconductor compound materials by means of vapour phase epitaxy
A semiconductor compound material, preferably a III-N-bulk crystal or a III-N-layer, is manufactured in a reactor by means of hydride vapor phase epitaxy (HVPE), wherein in a mixture of carrier gases a flow profile represented by local mass flow rates is formed in the reactor. The mixture can carry one or more reaction gases towards a substrate. Thereby, a concentration of hydrogen important for the reaction and deposition of reaction gases is adjusted at the substrate surface independently from the flow profile simultaneously formed in the reactor.
US09074296B2 Mesoporous Co3O4 nanoparticles, associated methods and applications
Each of: (1) a nanoparticle comprising a substantially single crystalline mesoporous Co3O4 material; (2) a battery electrode comprising a plurality of nanoparticles comprising the substantially single crystalline mesoporous Co3O4 material; (3) a battery comprising the battery electrode comprising the plurality of nanoparticles comprising the substantially single crystalline mesoporous Co3O4 material; and (4) a plurality of methods for preparing the nanoparticle comprising the substantially single crystalline mesoporous Co3O4 material, may be employed within the context of a lithium containing battery, such as a lithium ion battery. When the substantially single crystalline mesoporous Co3O4 material has a pore size of about 3 to about 8 nanometers enhanced lithium containing battery electrical performance properties are observed.
US09074292B2 Acid mist mitigation agents for electrolyte solutions
Sulfonate-, sulfate-, or carboxylate-capped, alkoxylated anti-misting agents having the structure: R((AO)nX)m((AO)nH)p, and methods of suppressing mist from electrolyte solutions by adding a mist-suppressing amount of one or more compounds selected from the group consisting of compounds of the Formulas R((AO)nX)m((AO)nH)p and R3N+(CH3)2R4, and mixtures thereof, to electrolyte solutions.
US09074288B2 Galvanic panel with compliant construction
A prefabricated sacrificial galvanic anode panel includes a rigid or semi-rigid backing board or similar support surface over which a thin layer of cement, mortar or adhesive is applied for holding a compliant layer of material in place on the support surface. The layer of wet adhesive, cement or mortar is sufficiently thin so that upon drying it does not cause warping of the support surface. The compliant or spongy layer is laminated or sandwiched between a thicker layer of ionically conductive galvanic mortar and the substrate support surface. The compliant or spongy layer prevents the thicker layer of galvanic mortar from wetting the backing board or substrate support surface so as to prevent warpage upon drying of the thicker layer of galvanic mortar and also accommodates the expansion of corrosion products from the galvanic anode material.
US09074280B2 Plasma film deposition device
A plasma film deposition device includes a film deposition chamber, a plasma generator within the deposition chamber, a plurality of gas carrier boards adjustably mounted to the plasma generator, a gas providing system, and a rotating support bracket. The gas providing system provides working gas and protective gas. The rotating support bracket is assembled within the film deposition chamber, and is aligned with the plasma generator, for holding workpieces in certain orientations. The plasma generator ionizes the working gas into high-temperature plasma, and sprays the high-temperature plasma toward the rotating support bracket to form plasma films on the workpieces. A plasma jet area is defined between the rotating support bracket and the plasma generator, the gas carrier boards eject the protective gas toward the plasma jet area thereby adjusting the shape of the plasma jet area.
US09074279B2 Hard laminar coating
It is provided a hard laminar coating consisting of a plurality of films including two kinds of films in the form of a first film and a second film having respective different compositions and alternately laminated on a surface of a base structure, wherein the first film is an oxide or an oxynitride of (Ti1aBa), while the second film is TiB2.
US09074278B2 Carbon film laminate
Small crystal size is the issue of a conventional method for formation of a film of graphene by a thermal CVD technique using a copper foil as a substrate. A carbon film laminate is described in which graphene having a larger crystal size is formed. The carbon film laminate is configured to include a sapphire single crystal having a surface composed of terrace surfaces which are flat at the atomic level, and atomic-layer steps, a copper single crystal thin film formed by epitaxial growth on the substrate, and graphene deposited on the copper single crystal thin film, and thus enabling formation of graphene having a large crystal size.
US09074277B2 Plated steel sheet and method of hot-stamping plated steel sheet
In a plated steel sheet having an aluminum-plating layer comprising at least Al formed on one side or both sides of the steel sheet, there is provided a plated steel sheet which, owing to the presence of a surface coating layer containing a compound having wurtzite crystal structure on the aluminum-plating layer, has excellent lubricity, prevents the plating thickness from becoming uneven during heating, and can improve formability and productivity in hot stamping, and a method of hot-stamping the plated steel sheet.
US09074272B2 High-strength cold-rolled steel sheet excellent in uniform elongation and method for manufacturing same
A high-strength cold-rolled steel sheet excellent in uniform elongation, including in percent by mass: 0.10-0.28% of C; 1.0-2.0% of Si; and 1.0-3.0% of Mn, and the structures of the same having the space factors below to the entire structure: 30-65% of bainitic ferrite; 30-50% of polygonal ferrite; and 5-20% of residual austenite.
US09074270B2 Sintered cermet and cutting tool
A sintered cermet and a cutting tool are provided which have high toughness and high anti-chipping. The sintered cermet comprises a hard phase composed of one or more kinds selected from carbides, nitrides, and carbonitrides of one or more metals selected from metals belonging to Groups 4, 5, and 6 of the periodic table, each of which is composed mainly of Ti; and a binder phase composed mainly of Ni and Co. When the crystal lattice constant of the binder phase is measured by Pawley method, two kinds of binder phases having two kinds of crystal lattice constants B1 and B2 exist in the interior of the sintered cermet. Alternatively, two peaks belonging to the (220) plane of the hard phase, namely, a low-angle-side-peak and a high-angle-side peak are detected in the interior of the sintered cermet, and a modified part exists in the vicinity of the surface, in which three peaks belonging to the (220) plane of the hard phase, namely, the low-angle-side peak, an intermediate-position peak, and the high-angle-side peak are detected.
US09074268B2 Metallic bondcoat with a high gamma/gamma' transition temperature and a component
A metallic coating or alloy is provided. The metallic coating includes iron, cobalt, chromium, and aluminum. Tantalum may also be included. A new addition in nickel based coating with stabilized gamma/gamma′ phases at high temperatures lead to a reduction of local stresses. A component including the metallic coating or alloy is also provided.
US09074261B2 Method of detecting heat-resistant fungus
A method of detecting a heat-resistant fungus, which has a step of identifying the heat-resistant fungus using the following nucleic acid (I) or (II): (I) a nucleic acid including a nucleotide sequence set forth in any one of SEQ ID NOS: 24 to 35 and 83 to 86, or a complementary sequence thereof; or (II) a nucleic acid including a nucleotide sequence resulting from a deletion, substitution, or addition of one to several nucleotides in the nucleotide sequence set forth in any one of SEQ ID NOS: 24 to 35 and 83 to 86 and being capable of detecting the heat-resistant fungus, or a complementary sequence thereof.
US09074256B2 Method of predicting a predisposition to QT prolongation
The present invention describes an association between genetic polymorphisms in the ABCC2 gene and a predisposition to prolongation of the QT interval, and provides related methods for the prediction of such a predisposition, the administration of QT interval-prolonging compounds to individuals having such a predisposition, and determining whether a compound is capable of inducing QT prolongation.
US09074254B2 Method of predicting a predisposition to QT prolongation
The present invention describes an association between genetic polymorphisms in the ceramide kinase-like (CERKL) gene and a predisposition to prolongation of the QT interval, and provides related methods for the prediction of such a predisposition, the administration of QT interval-prolonging compounds to individuals having such a predisposition, and determining whether a compound is capable of inducing QT prolongation.
US09074253B2 Methods for diagnosis, prognosis and treatment of primary and metastatic basal-like breast cancer and other cancer types
In one embodiment, a method of theranostic classification of a breast cancer tumor is provided, comprising obtaining a breast cancer tumor sample from a subject, detecting an expression level of FOXC1, comparing the expression level of FOXC1 to a predetermined cutoff level, and classifying the breast cancer tumor sample as belonging to a theranostic basal-like breast cancer tumor subtype or a theranostic hybrid basal-like breast cancer tumor subtype when the expression level of FOXC1 is higher than the predetermined cutoff level. In other embodiments, methods for predicting a prognosis of a basal-like breast cancer and methods of treating a basal-like breast cancer are provided.
US09074252B2 Methods of detecting target nucleic acids
The present disclosure relates to methods of identifying target nucleic acids by using coded molecules and its analysis by translocation through a nanopore. Generally, coded molecules are subject to a target polynucleotide dependent modification. The modified coded molecule is detected by isolating the modified coded molecules from the unmodified coded molecules prior to analysis through the nanopore or by detecting a change in the signal pattern of the coded molecule when analyzed through the nanopore.
US09074251B2 Linking sequence reads using paired code tags
Artificial transposon sequences having code tags and target nucleic acids containing such sequences. Methods for making artificial transposons and for using their properties to analyze target nucleic acids.
US09074250B2 Apparatus and methods for integrated sample preparation, reaction and detection
Cartridges for the isolation of a biological sample and downstream biological assays on the sample are provided, as are methods for using such cartridges. In one embodiment, a nucleic acid sample is isolated from a biological sample and the nucleic acid sample is amplified, for example by the polymerase chain reaction. The cartridges provided herein can also be used for the isolation of non-nucleic acid samples, for example proteins, and to perform downstream reactions on the proteins, for example, binding assays. Instruments for carrying out the downstream biological assays and for detecting the results of the assays are also provided.
US09074243B2 Detection of amplification products
Compositions and methods are provided for quantitative detection of amplification products, the methods being suitable for multiplexing. A first oligonucleotide that includes a primer sequence for priming an amplification reaction and also is labeled with a fluorescent label or quencher is mixed with a second oligonucleotide which has a sequence suitable for hybridizing to a portion of the first oligonucleotide and has a fluorescent label if the first oligonucleotide has a quencher or a quencher if the first oligonucleotide has a fluorescent label; and a third nucleotide which includes some or all the primer sequence contained in the first oligonucleotide but is not labeled, the first and third oligonucleotide being combined in a molar ratio of 2.8 to 8.2.
US09074242B2 Digital analyte analysis
The invention generally relates to droplet based digital PCR and methods for analyzing a target nucleic acid using the same. In certain embodiments, methods of the invention involve forming sample droplets containing, on average, a single target nucleic acid, amplifying the target in the droplets, excluding droplets containing amplicon from the target and amplicon from a variant of the target, and analyzing target amplicons.
US09074236B2 Apparatus and methods for microbial identification by mass spectrometry
Methods and systems for identification of microorganisms either after isolation from a culture or directly from a sample. The methods and systems are configured to identify microorganisms based on the characterization of proteins of the microorganisms via high-resolution/mass accuracy single-stage (MS) or multi-stage (MSn) mass spectrometry. Included herein are also discussion of targeted detection and evaluation of virulence factors, antibiotic resistance markers, antibiotic susceptibility markers, typing, or other characteristics using a method applicable to substantially all microorganisms and high-resolution/mass accuracy single-stage (MS) or multi-stage (MSn) mass spectrometry.
US09074234B2 Method of predicting crop yield using metabolic profiling
The present invention relates to agricultural business methods that may be used in conjunction with a novel technology that can predict the yield of a given plant.
US09074229B2 Variants of the promoter of the gap gene coding for glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase
The invention relates to an isolated polynucleotide having promoter activity, a variant of the promoter of the gap gene coding for glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase; and to a microorganism which produces and/or secretes a fine chemical, the microorganism including the isolated polynucleotide having promoter activity, which enables various genes to be overexpressed in comparison with the particular starting strain; and to a process for preparing fine chemicals using the microorganism.
US09074227B2 Helical fine structure, method for producing the same, and electric-wave shield or absorber using the helical fine structure
A helical fine structure of the present invention is characterized by including: a phytoplankton having a helical shape and selected from a group of cyanobacteria called Spirulina; and a surface modification layer formed on the phytoplankton. The surface modification layer includes at least one metal plating layer. Thereby, the helical fine structure can be utilized as an electric-wave shield or an absorber. Moreover, a method for producing the helical fine structure is characterized in that a prestep of a step of forming the surface modification layer on the phytoplankton having a helical shape includes a washing step with an organic solvent to remove an outer membrane from a surface of the phytoplankton.
US09074225B2 Biosynthesis of 1-alkenes in engineered microorganisms
Various 1-alkenes, including 1-nonadecene and 1-octadecene, are synthesized by the engineered microorganisms and methods of the invention. In certain embodiments, the microorganisms comprise recombinant 1-alkene synthases. The engineered microorganisms may be photosynthetic microorganisms such as cyanobacteria.
US09074218B2 Antimicrobial peptides and uses thereof
The subject invention pertains to methods and materials for enhancing microbial resistance in plants. Specifically exemplified herein are grapevines transformed with polynucleotides that express a peptide which confers antimicrobial activity.
US09074215B2 Method for production of chrysanthemum plant having delphinidin-containing petals
Disclosed are: a method for producing a chrysanthemum plant having delphinidin-containing petals using a transcriptional regulatory region for a chrysanthemum-derived flavanone 3-hydroxylase (F3H) gene; and a chrysanthemum plant, a progeny or a vegetative proliferation product of the plant, or a part or a tissue of the plant, the progeny or the vegetative proliferation product, and particularly a petal or a cut flower of the plant. In the method for producing a chrysanthemum plant having delphinidin-containing petals, a flavonoid 3′,5′-hydroxylase (F3′5′H) is caused to be expressed in a chrysanthemum plant using a transcriptional regulatory region for a chrysanthemum-derived flavanone 3-hydroxylase (F3H) gene.
US09074213B2 Compositions and methods for inhibiting expression of a target gene
The present invention relates to a double-stranded ribonucleic acid (dsRNA) having a nucleotide sequence which is substantially identical to at least a part of a target gene and which is no more than 49, preferably less than 25, nucleotides in length, and which comprises a complementary (antisense) RNA strand having a 1 to 4 nucleotide overhang at the 3′-end and a blunt 5′-end. The invention further relates to a pharmaceutical composition comprising the dsRNA and a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier. The pharmaceutical compositions are useful for inhibiting the expression of a target gene, as well as for treating diseases caused by expression of the target gene, at low dosages (i.e., less than 5 milligrams, preferably less than 25 micrograms, per kg body weight per day). The invention also relates to methods for inhibiting the expression of a target gene, as well as methods for treating diseases caused by the expression of the gene.
US09074211B2 Inhibition of MAP4K4 through RNAI
RNAi constructs directed to MAP4K4 that demonstrate unexpectedly high gene silencing activities, and uses thereof are disclosed. The blunt-ended constructs have a double-stranded region of 19-49 nucleotides. The constructs have selective minimal modifications to confer an optimal balance of biological activity, toxicity, stability, and target gene specificity. For example, the strands may be modified (e.g., one or both ends of the sense strand is modified by 2′-O-methyl groups), such that the construct is not cleaved by Dicer or other RNAse III, the antisense strand may also be modified by a 2′-O-methyl group at the penultimate 5′-end nucleotide to greatly reduce off-target silencing.
US09074210B2 Treatment of brain derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) related diseases by inhibition of natural antisense transcript to BDNF
The present invention relates to antisense oligonucleotides that modulate the expression of and/or function of Brain derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), in particular, by targeting natural antisense polynucleotides of Brain derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF). The invention also relates to the identification of these antisense oligonucleotides and their use in treating diseases and disorders associated with the expression of BDNF.
US09074208B2 Modified siRNA molecules and uses thereof
The present invention provides chemically modified siRNA molecules and methods of using such siRNA molecules to silence target gene expression. Advantageously, the modified siRNA of the present invention is less immunostimulatory than its corresponding unmodified siRNA sequence and retains RNAi activity against the target sequence. The present invention also provides nucleic acid-lipid particles comprising a modified siRNA, a cationic lipid, and a non-cationic lipid, which can further comprise a conjugated lipid that inhibits aggregation of particles. The present invention further provides methods of silencing gene expression by administering a modified siRNA to a mammalian subject. Methods for identifying and/or modifying an siRNA having immunostimulatory properties are also provided.
US09074206B2 Compositions and methods for micro-RNA expression profiling of colorectal cancer
The present invention relates compositions and methods for microRNA (miRNA) expression profiling of colorectal cancer. In particular, the invention relates to a diagnostic kit of molecular markers for identifying one or more mammalian target cells exhibiting or having a predisposition to develop colorectal cancer, the kit comprising a plurality of nucleic acid molecules, each nucleic acid molecule encoding a miRNA sequence, wherein one or more of the plurality of nucleic acid molecules are differentially expressed in the target cells and in one or more control cells, and wherein the one or more differentially expressed nucleic acid molecules together represent a nucleic acid expression signature that is indicative for the presence of or the predisposition to develop colorectal cancer. The invention further relates to corresponding methods using such nucleic acid expression signatures for identifying one or more mammalian target cells exhibiting or having a predisposition to develop colorectal cancer as well as for preventing or treating such a condition. Finally, the invention is directed to a pharmaceutical composition for the prevention and/or treatment of colorectal cancer.
US09074203B2 Ligation method employing RtcB
A method of processing an RNA sample is provided. In certain embodiments, the method may comprise: a) obtaining a fragmented RNA sample comprising: i. RNA fragments of long RNA molecules; and ii. unfragmented short RNA; and b) contacting said fragmented RNA sample with a first adaptor in the presence of a RtcB ligase, thereby producing a ligated RNA sample comprising adaptor-ligated fragments of long RNA. A kit for performing the method is also provided.
US09074201B2 Therapeutic charge engineered variants of lysozyme and methods for using same to treat infections
The present invention is a genetically engineered version of a lysozyme protein wherein the engineered enzyme exhibits enhanced antimicrobial activity, relative to the wild type enzyme, as a result of a reduced overall electrostatic charge. Such an enzyme is an attractive therapeutic candidate for treating microbial or viral infections, particularly in cases where the infection results in an accumulation of polyanion inhibitors at the site of infection. Respiratory tract infections are one example of an infection where such an enzyme might be a particularly useful drug.
US09074199B1 Mutant Cas9 proteins
Methods of making mutant Cas9 proteins are described.
US09074198B2 Geobacteraceae strains and methods
Embodiments of the present invention provide a method of producing genetically modified strains of electricigenic microbes that are specifically adapted for the production of electrical current in microbial fuel cells, as well as strains produced by such methods and fuel cells using such strains. In preferred embodiments, the present invention provides genetically modified strains of Geobacter sulfurreducens and methods of using such strains.
US09074195B1 Nanoparticle entrapment of materials
A water-based and surfactant-free microwave synthesis of polymer nanoparticles includes the entrapment of diisopropyl fluorophosphatase (DFPase) within poly(4-vinylpyridine) (PVP) nanoparticles. The resulting nanoparticles are approximately 80-100 nm in diameter and reactive activity of DFPase is maintained after encapsulation.
US09074194B2 Sequence of nucleotides and peptides GSE 24.2 of dyskerin, which can induce telomerase activity, method for obtaining same, therapeutic compositions and applications thereof
This invention relates to a compound that induces or activates telomerase activity based on the nucleotide sequence of the GSE 24.2 fragment of dyskerin or the protein or peptide sequence encoded by said nucleotide sequence. Another part of the invention relates to vectors that comprise said sequence and cells transformed thereby, and pharmaceutical compositions that contain all these elements. These compositions may be used in the treatment of diseases from the following group: ageing or acceleration of ageing, neurodegenerative diseases and dyskeratosis congenita.
US09074192B2 Inhibition of AXL signaling in anti-metastatic therapy
Compositions and methods are provided for alleviating cancer in a mammal by administering a therapeutic dose of a pharmaceutical composition that inhibits activity of AXL protein activity, for example by competitive or non-competitive inhibition of the binding interaction between AXL and its ligand GAS6.
US09074191B2 Methods and systems for producing lipids from microalgae using cultured multi-species microalgae
The present invention provides a system and method for culturing a microalgae biofamily to produce lipids. The method includes growing a microalgae biofamily comprises multiple microalgae species in a liquid medium at a first stress level. A portion of the microalgae are exposed to a second stress level and harvested. Lipids are extracted from the harvested portion. Also disclosed is a system for culturing a microalgae biofamily that comprises an enclosed pond containing microalgae in growth medium and having a sloped bottom, at least one photobioreactor positioned above the pond, and a pump circulating the microalgae-containing growth medium between the pond and the at least one photobioreactor.
US09074173B2 Integrated system and process for bioproduct production
Processes and systems for production of bioproducts such as biofuels are provided. The bioproduct production processes and systems utilize pretreatment of a carbohydrate-containing feedstock to produce soluble sugar molecules and continuous conversion of the pretreated feedstock to a bioproduct by an immobilized fermenting microorganism.
US09074169B2 Lithographic tool in situ clean formulations
Compositions and methods of using said composition for removing polymeric materials from surfaces, preferably cleaning contaminant buildup from a lithography apparatus without total disassembly of said apparatus.
US09074168B2 Multiphase liquid composition for low voltage electrowetting device
A multi-phase liquid composition comprising a conductive liquid and a non-conductive liquid, said liquids being non miscible, wherein the conductive liquid comprises more than 90% up to 99.9% by weight of a first component having a surface tension above 45 mN/m and comprising water, salt and at least one freezing point lowering agent, and from 0.01% to less than 10% by weight of a second component having a surface tension below 30 mN/m and comprising at least one first compound, wherein said at least one first compound is a non ionic surfactant.
US09074165B1 Liquid mesitylene sulfonate compositions and methods thereof
The invention relates to compositions including a hypohalite or hypochlorous acid and a soluble salt of 2,4,6 mesitylene sulfonate. The compositions may include a surfactant, a buffer, or combinations thereof. Other adjuvants may also be present. Such compositions do not require the inclusion of high concentrations of sodium hydroxide or other soluble hydroxide salts to drastically increase pH (and thus stability), although such hydroxides may be present if desired.
US09074164B2 Intercalated bleach compositions, related methods of manufacture and use
The invention relates to compositions, methods of use, and methods of manufacture for an intercalated bleach compound and compositions thereof. The intercalated bleach compound has the formula Mx(OCl)y(O)m(OH)n where M is an alkaline earth metal such as magnesium, calcium or mixture thereof. The values of x and y independently equal any number greater than or equal to 1 (e.g., 1, 2, 3, 4, etc.), and m and n independently equal any number greater than or equal to 0 (e.g., 0, 1, 2, 3, 4, etc.), but m and n are not both 0. In addition, the molar ratio of the alkaline earth metal (e.g., magnesium or calcium) to hypochlorite is at least 3:1. In other words, x is ≧3y. The compounds exhibit excellent stability, little or no chlorine bleach odor, exhibit excellent pH buffering characteristics, and less reactivity with organic materials as compared to alternative chlorine bleach products.
US09074162B1 Detergent compositions comprising vinylidene diphosphonic acid polymers
Methods employing detergent compositions effective for reducing soil redeposition and accumulation on hard surfaces are disclosed. The alkaline detergent compositions employ vinylidene diphosphonic acid polymers, including unsaturated monocarboxylic acid polymers with a phosphonate end group, preferably a vinylidene diphosphonic acid end group, in combination with an alkali metal hydroxide or other alkalinity source. The alkaline detergent compositions preferably further employ threshold agents. The alkaline detergent compositions reduce the amount of phosphorus-containing materials and polyacrylate materials required for water conditioning, soil removal and soil antiredeposition.
US09074155B2 Perfluoropolyether lubricant and systems comprising same
A surface agent includes two end portions and a middle portion disposed between the end portions. The end portions include a terminal section and a midsection. The terminal section includes at least one surface active functional group. The midsection includes at least one perfluoroethyl ether unit. The middle portion includes at least one perfluorobutyl ether unit.
US09074146B2 Process and apparatus for producing diesel from a hydrocarbon stream
A process and apparatus are disclosed for hydrotreating a hydrocarbon feed in a hydrotreating unit and hydrocracking a second hydrocarbon stream in a hydrocracking unit. The hydrocracking unit and the hydrotreating unit may share the same recycle gas compressor. A make-up hydrogen stream may also be compressed in the recycle gas compressor. A hydrocracking separator separates recycle gas and hydrocarbons from the hydrocracking unit to be processed with effluent from the hydrotreating unit.
US09074145B2 Dual stripper column apparatus and methods of operation
Dual stripper column arrangements are described in which hot flash drum liquid is sent to one column and cold flash drum liquid is sent to a second column. Methods of operating the dual stripper column apparatus are also described.
US09074143B2 Process for producing hydrocarbon fuel
Slurry hydrocracking a heavy hydrocarbon feed produces a HVGO stream and a pitch stream. At least a portion of the pitch stream is subjected to SDA to prepare a DAO stream low in metals. The DAO is blended with at least a portion of the HVGO stream to provide turbine or marine fuel with acceptable properties for combustion in gas turbines or for marine fuel grades.
US09074139B2 Process for coal conversion comprising at least one step of liquefaction for the manufacture of aromatics
The invention relates to a process for coal conversion, optionally in co-processing with other feedstocks, notably of the biomass type, comprising at least one liquefaction step, followed by a fixed-bed hydrocracking step and a catalytic reforming step. With this process, aromatic compounds can be obtained from a feedstock containing coal.
US09074138B2 Process for treating coal using multiple dual zone steps
A process for treating agglomerating coal includes drying coal in a drying step, and treating the dried coal in an oxidizing step to form oxides sufficient to convert the coal into a substantially non-agglomerating coal. The oxidized coal is pyrolyzed in a pyrolysis step to form coal char, and the coal char is cooled. At least one of the drying, oxidizing, and pyrolyzing steps is a dual zone step, with the dual zone step having a first zone and a second zone, with the temperature of the second zone being higher than that of the first zone. The effluent from such a dual zone pyrolyzer are subjected to a condensation process to separate the effluents into liquids and on-gases, and the on-gases are combined with other available gases to achieve a composition of blended on-gases having a specific heat of at least about 0.50 Btu/lb-° F. (2.013 kJ/Kg ° C.) at 1200° F. (649° C.) and recirculated into the pyrolyzer.
US09074136B2 Silicate luminescent materials and preparation methods thereof
Silicate luminescent materials and preparation methods thereof are provided. The luminescent materials are represented by the general formula: M2aM3bSicO[a+3(b+x)/2+2c]:xCe3+, yM0, M2 is at least one selected from Ca, Sr, Ba, Mg and at least contains Ca, M3 is Sc, Sc and Y, M0 is one selected from metal nano particles of Ag, Au, Pt, Pd or Cu, wherein 2.8≦a≦3.2, 1.8≦b≦2.1, 2.9≦c≦3.3, 0.01≦x≦0.2 and 1×10−4≦y≦1×10−2. Compared to the luminescent materials in the prior art, the said luminescent materials have higher luminous efficiency and more stable performance and structure. The said methods have simple technique and low cost, therefore are appropriate to be used in industry.
US09074133B2 Thermotropic liquid crystalline polymer with improved low shear viscosity
A thermotropic liquid crystalline polymer melt polymerized in the presence of a viscosity modifier that can help increase the “low shear” viscosity of the resulting composition is provided. The increased “low shear” viscosity can minimize drooling of the polymer composition during processing and also allow it to possess a greater melt strength, which facilitates its ability to be processed in a wide variety of applications without losing its physical integrity. Despite having a relatively high “low shear” viscosity, the present inventors have discovered that the viscosity modifier does not substantially increase the “high shear” melt viscosity of the polymer composition. In this regard, the ratio of the “low shear” viscosity to the melt viscosity is generally very high, such as within a range of from about 50 to about 1000.
US09074132B2 Liquid crystal composition and liquid crystal display device
To provide a highly reactive polymerizable compound having a high solubility in a liquid crystal compound; a liquid crystal composition satisfying at least one characteristic such as a high maximum temperature of a nematic phase, a low minimum temperature thereof, a small viscosity, a suitable optical anisotropy, a large negative dielectric anisotropy and specific resistance, a high stability to ultraviolet light and heat, and having a suitable balance regarding at least two characteristics; a PSA device having a short response time, a large pretilt angle, a small residual monomer concentration, a large voltage holding ratio and contrast ratio and a long life; a polymerizable compound into which one bonding group or nonidentical reaction group is introduced by constructing a polymer structure having a high polymerization degree in a PSA device manufacturing process to obtain a stable display, a liquid crystal composition containing thereof, and a liquid crystal device including thereof.
US09074131B2 Combined chemiluminescent and fluorescent powder marking system
The present disclosure relates to a powder composition comprising both chemiluminescent and fluorescent components. In some embodiments, the disclosure provides a marking system, which is in powder form, comprising at least one oxalate ester, at least one fluorescer, at least one peroxide, at least one catalyst, and at least one secondary fluorescent agent. In accordance with the present disclosure, the at least one oxalate ester, the at least one fluorescer, the at least one peroxide, and the at least one catalyst are admixed at the time of use for the generation of light. In certain embodiments, the chemiluminescent components emit light in the visible, ultra-violet, or infrared spectrum as the result of a chemical reaction, and the secondary fluorescent components can be selected for their ability to absorb at least some of the light generated by the chemiluminescent components, and then reemit light at a different wavelength.
US09074129B2 Mechanochromic luminescent difluoroboron beta-diketonates
The invention provides luminescent solid-state compositions comprising difluoroboron beta-diketonates wherein the compositions can exhibit mechanochromic luminescence. The mechanochromic effect on the luminescence can be reversible, such as thermally reversible. Various solid-state forms of the invention can have emission spectra that differ from the properties of the respective difluoroboron beta-diketonate in solution. The mechanochromic effect can be stimulated by pressure such as handwriting, and can be reversed over a period of minutes to hours at room temperature. The invention also provides methods of making and methods of using the solid-state compositions, such as for sensors and for information displays for use in biological sensing, and in art, design, and consumer products. Compositions of the invention, such as compositions in nanoparticulate form, or contained within a matrix material, can be used in conjunction with fluorescence microscopy to provide information concerning pressures and tensions within and external to living cells, tissues, or organisms.
US09074128B2 Metal complexes having azaborol ligands and electronic device having the same
The present invention relates to an electronic device, in particular an organic electroluminescent device, which comprises metal complexes containing azaborole ligands. The invention also relates to the metal complexes themselves, to the use thereof in an organic electronic device, and to a process for the preparation thereof. Finally, the invention is directed to the ligands and to the use of the ligands for the preparation of the metal complexes according to the invention.
US09074125B1 Gelling agent for water shut-off in oil and gas wells
The gelling agent for water shut-off in oil and gas wells is a composition that forms a gel to reduce or eliminate the flow of water in a gas or oil well. The composition is formed by mixing polyvinyl alcohol, a polyvinyl alcohol copolymer, or mixtures thereof with an amino-aldehyde oligomer, such as urea formaldehyde or melamine formaldehyde, with or without a cross-linker. The polymer composition can be used to minimize or completely shut off excess water production with insignificant reduction in hydrocarbon productivity.
US09074122B2 Mitigation of H2S in steam injection technology using amines of natural origin
A method for mitigation of H2S during a steam injection hydrocarbon producing process includes the steps of injecting steam and an additive comprising soluble molasses condensate (SMC) and amines of natural origin into a steam injection well; and producing hydrocarbons from a hydrocarbon producing well in subterranean fluid communication with the steam injection well, wherein the additive reduces H2S content in the hydrocarbon produced from the hydrocarbon producing well.
US09074121B2 Oil well cleaning compositions
A method for cleaning oil wells to increase the flow of oil thereof by use of a unique cleaning emulsion comprising of water, hydrocarbon solvent, terpene hydrocarbon material, demulsifier, detergent, and optionally an acid. This one step method provides for the simultaneously cleaning/removal of asphaltene and/or paraffin and scale at a wide range of temperatures. This method can be used alone or with the assistance of a wash tool which is a combination pressure and surge wash tool having a nipple assembly, or a hydro self-rotating nozzle wash tool.
US09074118B2 CMP method for metal-containing substrates
An aqueous chemical-mechanical polishing composition for polishing metal containing substrates comprising an abrasive particle consisting essentially of a primary particle modified with an aluminosilicate layer, and wherein the abrasive particle has a zeta potential measured at pH 2.3 of about −5 mV to about −100 mV. The composition can be used to polish the surface of a tungsten containing substrate.
US09074115B2 Heat transfer compositions
The invention provides a heat transfer composition comprising (i) from about 45 to about 75% by weight 2,3,3,3-tetrafluoropropene (R-1234yf); and (ii) from about 25 to about 55% by weight 1,1,1,2-tetrafluoroethane (R-134a). A heat transfer composition comprising, optionally consisting essentially of, (i) from about 20 to about 90% by weight R-1234yf; (ii) from about 10 to about 60% by weight R-134a; and (iii) from about 1 to about 20% by weight R-32 is also provided.
US09074112B2 Methacrylate-based adhesive compositions
An adhesive composition, especially suitable for a two-part adhesive system curable via free radical polymerization comprises; (A) (meth)acrylate ester monomer; (B) chlorinated elastomeric polymer; (C) core-shell impact modifier; and (D) urethane (meth)acrylate oligomer. Example adhesive compositions include urethane (meth)acrylate oligomer (D) derived from (i) a di- or higher isocyanate having at least two isocyanate groups which differ in reactivity; (ii) a chain-extending reagent which has at least two groups selected from hydroxyl and/or amino groups, each capable of reaction with an isocyanate group of (i); (iii) a hydroxymethacrylate component or hydroxyacrylate component. Also urethane (meth)acrylate oligomers, suitable for use in adhesive compositions, and derived from: (i) a diisocyanate having two isocyanate groups which differ in reactivity; (ii) a chain-extending reagent which is a polyether polyol selected from ethoxylated and propoxylated derivatives of tri- and tetra-functional polyols; and (iii) a hydroxyl (meth)acrylate selected from polyethylene glycol (meth)acrylate and polypropylene glycol (meth)acrylate, are disclosed.
US09074110B2 Method for producing release liners
The invention relates to a method for producing a release liner which comprises at least one crosslinked silicon coating based on addition crosslinking silicone polysiloxanes and hydrosilylation catalysts, the silicon coating being treated with compounds that are effective as catalyst poisons for hydrosilylation catalysts. The invention further relates to a release liner which can be obtained according to said method and to the use of compounds that are effective as catalyst poisons for hydrosilylation catalysts for treating a silicon coating present on a release liner to control the release forces with which the release liner can be released from a pressure-sensitive adhesive composition that has been coated onto it.
US09074109B2 Fluorine-containing polymer, the preparation process and use thereof, pigment dispersion and the preparation process
The present invention relates to a fluorine-containing polymer comprising a structure represented by the following general formula (I), as well as the preparation process and use thereof. According to the technical solution of the invention, a novel fluorine-containing polymer with a larger molecular weight and an aromatic side group is obtained through a simple reaction, and it can be used as a non-ionic fluorine carbon surfactant, and especially, is applicable to the preparation of a pigment dispersion. Additionally, the invention further relates to a pigment dispersion and the preparation process thereof. In the invention, a little non-ionic fluorine carbon surfactant is added into a traditional pigment dispersion, whereby the interface energy in the pigment dispersion system can be improved, and the aggregation and agglomeration of pigment particles are prevented, as a result, the particle diameter and viscosity are less changed with the lapse of time, and there is no precipitate occurred, therefore, the stability of the pigment dispersion is improved significantly.
US09074108B2 Potting compound suitable for potting an electronic component
The invention relates to a potting compound suitable for potting an electronic component, in particular a large-volume coil such as a gradient coil, consisting of a supporting matrix in which at least one filler made of polymer nanoparticles is distributed. At least one filler (11) that is used as a flame retardant is introduced into the supporting matrix (8).
US09074100B2 Wood filler with hot melt adhesive
A wood-filling composition that includes at least one hot melt adhesive, wherein the at least one hot melt adhesive further includes ethylene-vinyl acetate, polyethylene, polypropylene, or combinations thereof; and at least one filler, wherein the at least one filler further includes ceramic microspheres, calcium carbonate, wood flour, or combinations thereof.
US09074098B2 Telechelic based networks from novel macromonomers, compositions, preparation and uses thereof
The invention provides highly resilient synthetic hydrogels, which can be prepared, for example, by using the efficient thiol-norbornene chemistry to cross-link hydrophilic poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) and hydrophobic polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) polymer chains. The simple hydrogel system with enhanced mechanical properties is useful in many applications, including in the biomedical field and in the design of protective and corrective wear.
US09074097B2 Composition for silicone rubber foam, manufacturing method of silicone rubber foam, and silicone rubber foam
There are provided a composition for silicone rubber foam, a manufacturing method of a silicone rubber foam, and a silicone rubber foam in which it is possible to control the foaming states. The composition for silicone rubber foam contains: (A) 100 parts by mass of polyorganosiloxane having a degree of polymerization of 4,000 to 10,000 and having two or more alkenyl groups at a content of 0.001 mmol/g or more and less than 0.3 mmol/g; an amount of polyorganohydrogensiloxane having an average of two or more Si-atom-bonded hydrogen atoms so that a molar ratio of the hydrogen atoms to the alkenyl groups in the (A) component is 0.001 to 5; 0.1 to 10 parts by mass of an organic foaming agent with a decomposition temperature of 50 to 250° C.; 5 to 200 parts by mass of silica powder; and a catalyst amount of a platinum-based metal catalyst activated with ultraviolet rays.
US09074096B2 Polyphenylene sulfide resin composition and molding comprising same
The invention provides a polyphenylene sulfide resin composition including: 1 to 100 parts by weight of an olefin elastomer (B); and 0.01 to 10 parts by weight of a carboxylic acid amide wax mixture (C), relative to 100 parts by weight of a polyphenylene sulfide resin (A), wherein the carboxylic acid amide wax mixture (C) is obtained by adding 0.01 to 5 parts by weight of an antioxidant to 100 parts by weight of a carboxylic acid amide wax produced by reaction of a higher aliphatic monocarboxylic acid, a polybasic acid and a diamine.
US09074091B2 Thermosetting resin composition, thermosetting resin composition for fiber-reinforced composite material, prepared using the same, and honeycomb sandwich panel
An object of the present invention is to provide a thermosetting resin composition having superior toughness. The thermosetting resin composition of the present invention includes a thermosetting resin, and an adsorbing filler in which a thermoplastic resin C is adsorbed on a filler, wherein an adsorption coefficient that is greater than 0 and less than or equal to 0.8, defined by Formula 1 is satisfied. Formula 1: Adsorption coefficient={Amount (parts by mass) of the thermoplastic resin C adsorbed on 100 parts by mass of the filler/specific gravity of the thermoplastic resin C}/DBP oil absorption (mL/100 g) of the filler.
US09074085B2 Heterophasic polypropylene with high flowability and enhanced mechanical properties
The present invention relates to a heterophasic polypropylene resin comprising a crystalline propylene homopolymer matrix (A) and an amorphous propylene copolymer phase (B) dispersed within the matrix having excellent mechanical properties, in particular at low temperatures, and at the same time high flowability. Further, the invention relates to a production process of the heterophasic polypropylene resin, the use of such a resin in a polypropylene composition and to articles made of the heterophasic polypropylene resin.
US09074084B2 Blended fluoropolymer compositions
Blended fluoropolymer compositions are provided, in which a liquid dispersion of a first fluoropolymer is blended with a liquid dispersion of a second fluoropolymer. The first fluoropolymer may be polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), such as a low molecular weight PTFE (LPTFE) in the form of an aqueous dispersion having a mean particle size of less than 1.0 microns (μm) and a first melt temperature (Tm) of 332° C. or less. The second fluoropolymer may be a melt processable fluoropolymer (MPF), such as methylfluoroalkoxy (MFA), fluorinated ethylene propylene (FEP), or perfluoroalkoxy (PFA), for example, in the form of an aqueous dispersion having a mean particle size of less than 1.0 microns (μm). When the blended fluoropolymer composition is dried, a crystal structure representing a true alloy of the fluoropolymers is formed, having melt characteristics that differ from those of the individual fluoropolymers.
US09074082B2 Polyethylene compositions having high dimensional stability and excellent processability for caps and closures
A dual reactor solution polymerization process gives high density polyethylene compositions containing a first ethylene copolymer and a second ethylene copolymer and which have high dimensional stability, excellent processability as well as good organoleptic properties and reasonable stress cracking resistance. The polyethylene compositions are suitable for compression molding or injection molding applications and are useful, for example, in the manufacture of caps and closures for bottles, and for example, in bottles containing non-pressurized liquids.
US09074081B2 Eco-friendly resin composition
Disclosed is an eco-friendly resin composition. The eco-friendly resin composition includes a base resin of about 100 parts by weight and a polyvinylacetal compatibilizer of about 1 to about 20 parts by weight. The base resin includes a plasticized cellulose diacetate of about 10 wt % to about 50 wt % and a thermoplastic resin of about 50 wt % to about 90 wt %.
US09074079B2 Starch-based compositions for latex replacement
A method for producing starch-based compositions, and the composition produced therewith, for use as latex substitutes for full or partial latex replacement in applications such as carpet backing.
US09074076B2 Rubber composition for tire cord coating, breaker edge strip, breaker cushion or cord-adjoining strip, and pneumatic tire
Provided are a rubber composition for a tire cord topping, a breaker edge strip, a breaker cushion, or a strip adjacent to cords, which achieves a balanced improvement in handling stability, fuel economy, durability, ride quality, and adhesion; and pneumatic tires including the same. The rubber composition includes: an isoprene-based rubber; a phenol resin and/or an alkylphenol resin; and a partial condensate of HMMM and/or a partial condensate of HMMPME, wherein an amount of the isoprene-based rubber is 60% by mass or higher per 100% by mass of the rubber component; and combined amount of the phenol resin and the alkylphenol resin is 2-3.9 parts by mass, combined amount of the partial condensate of HMMM and the partial condensate of HMMPME is 0.5-5 parts by mass, and an amount of silica is at most 15 parts by mass, each per 100 parts by mass of the rubber component.
US09074067B2 Calcium carbonate slurries
A process is provided for making a calcium carbonate slurry comprising the steps of (a) forming a mixture comprising water, an acidic dispersant system, and calcium carbonate, (b) grinding said mixture to form a preliminary slurry of particles of said calcium carbonate, wherein 50% or more by weight of said calcium carbonate in said preliminary slurry, based on the total weight of said calcium carbonate in said preliminary slurry, is in the form of particles having diameter of 2 micrometers or less, and wherein the pH of said preliminary slurry is 9.0 or below, and (c) after step (b), adding one or more organic neutralizing agent to bring the pH of said preliminary slurry to 9.4 or above.
US09074064B2 Carbon fiber prepreg, method for producing same and carbon fiber reinforced composite material
A carbon fiber prepreg includes carbon fiber bundles containing numerous carbon fiber single yarns and a matrix resin impregnated in the carbon fiber bundles, the value of the coefficient of variation, displayed as a percentage, of the number of the carbon fiber single yarns contained per unit area being 10% or less, wherein in each unit area, the width and the depth from the surface of the carbon fiber prepreg in the cutting plane when the carbon fiber prepreg is cut at right angles to the array direction (direction of the fiber axis) of the carbon fiber bundles are 100 μm and 30 μm respectively. A carbon fiber prepreg may have a projected area of a carbon fiber single yarn which has a fiber orientation angle of 0°±3° or more is 2% or less of the projected area of all carbon fiber single yarns.
US09074063B2 Rubber composition and pneumatic tire
The present invention provides a rubber composition capable of improving the rubber strength and fuel economy in a balanced manner, and a pneumatic tire formed from the rubber composition. The present invention relates to a rubber composition including a rubber component, carbon black, and a compound represented by formula (I) below, wherein the amount of the carbon black is 10 to 100 parts by mass per 100 parts by mass of the rubber component: wherein R1 and R2 are the same as or different from each other, and each represent a hydrogen atom, a C1-C20 alkyl group, a C1-C20 alkenyl group, or a C1-C20 alkynyl group; Mr+ represents a metal ion; and r represents a valence of the metal ion.
US09074060B2 Processes for manufacturing electret fine particles or coarse powder
The present invention provides a process for producing electret fine particles or coarse powder that can be uniformly electrified and exhibits excellent electrophoretic properties.Specifically, the present invention relates to the production processes (1) and (2) below: (1) A process for producing electret fine particles, comprising emulsifying a fluorine-containing material that contains a vinylidene fluoride-hexafluoropropylene-tetrafluoroethylene terpolymer in a liquid that is incompatible with the fluorine-containing material to obtain emulsified particles; and subjecting the emulsified particles to electron ray irradiation, radial ray irradiation, or corona discharge treatment. (2) A process for producing electret coarse powder, comprising subjecting a resin sheet containing a vinylidene fluoride-hexafluoropropylene-tetrafluoroethylene terpolymer to electron ray irradiation, radial ray irradiation, or corona discharge treatment to process the resin sheet into an electret resin sheet; and pulverizing the electret resin sheet.
US09074058B2 Fluororesin film and fluororesin-laminated acrylic resin film
An object of the present invention is to provide a novel monolayer and multilayer film that can be employed also for use in interior and exterior members of vehicles, and that have excellent transparency, surface hardness, chemical resistance, and stain resistance such as lactic acid resistance and sunscreen resistance. The present invention is directed to a fluororesin film formed with (C) a fluororesin comprising (B) a fluorinated (meth)acrylic resin that contains a fluorine-containing alkyl(meth)acrylate polymer component; and a fluororesin-laminated acrylic resin film, wherein the fluororesin film layer is laminated on at least one face of a film layer comprising (A) an acrylic resin.
US09074053B2 Polymeric composition with electroactive characteristics
A polymeric composition that includes at least one polymer and an effective amount of a nanoparticulate component. The nanoparticulate component is at least one of inorganic functional nanoparticulate compounds and graphene in which the nanoparticulate component is associated with the polymer. The polymer disclosed herein can have electromagnetic activity. The resulting polymeric composition exhibit a measurable electrical conductivity (σ) range of 10−14 to 4.7*106 (S/m) at 20° C. A polymeric precursor that includes at least one component selected from the group that includes isocyanates, polyisocyanates, MDI-terminated prepolymers and an effective amount of a nanoparticulate component. The nanoparticulate component is at least one of inorganic functional nanoparticulate component being at least one of inorganic functional nanoparticulate compounds and graphene that is associated with the prepolymer.
US09074051B2 Dianhydride monomer having side chain, polyimide compound having side chain and manufacturing method thereof
A dianhydride monomer having a large side chain R is provided. The large side chain would interrupt the symmetry and regularity of diamine monomer. The diamine monomer has the general formula shown as formula (I) below: The functional group R includes α-substitution cycloalkene having at least a tertiary carbon atom, cycloalkene having at least a tertiary carbon atom, cycloalkane having at least a tertiary carbon atom, α-substitution phenyl, phenyl, α-substitution naphthalyl, naphthalyl, α-substitution phenanthrenyl, phenanthrenyl, α-substitution anthracenyl, anthracenyl, α-substitution adamantyl, adamantyl, α-substitution adamantyl and adamantyl.
US09074045B2 Process for the manufacture of polycarbonate compositions
A continuous process for the manufacture of a polycarbonate comprises: combining an aromatic dihydroxy compound stream and a diaryl carbonate stream to form a mixture; controlling a weight or molar ratio of the diaryl carbonate to the aromatic dihydroxy compound by: measuring a sound velocity, Vs, in the mixture at an operating temperature of the controlling step; and determining the weight or molar ratio of the diaryl carbonate to the aromatic dihydroxy compound in the mixture; and adjusting a flow rate of at least one of the aromatic dihydroxy compound stream and the diaryl carbonate stream, if needed, to achieve a desired weight or molar ratio of the diaryl carbonate to the aromatic dihydroxy compound; and polymerizing the aromatic dihydroxy compound and the diaryl carbonate in the presence of a catalyst to produce the polycarbonate.
US09074039B2 Polyurethane foam compositions and process for making same
The present invention generally relates to polyurethane foam composition. In one embodiment, the present invention relates to polyurethane foam compositions that have increased and/or improved fire-retardant properties due to the inclusion of one or more liquid and/or solid fire-retardants. In another embodiment, the present invention relates to polyurethane foam compositions that have increased and/or improved fire-retardant properties due to the inclusion of one or more intumescent materials (e.g., expandable graphite (EG)). In still another embodiment, the present invention relates to polyurethane foam compositions that have increased and/or improved fire-retardant properties due to the inclusion of expandable graphite.
US09074037B2 Iron-containing polymer suitable for regenerating diesel exhaust particulate traps
An iron-containing polymer is provided for use as a fuel additive for promoting trap regeneration. The polymer shows a beneficial balance of physical properties, and is prepared from iron salts by a polymerization process involving base addition, and subsequent co-ordination of branched-chain polycarboxylate ligands. The polymer can be stored in highly concentrate form, and shows particular suitability for on board dosing systems.
US09074036B1 Preparing method for aqueous emulsion via dispersible urethane acrylate copolymerization
The present invention provides a method for preparing aqueous emulsion via water dispersible polyurethane grafted acrylate copolymerization, which first uses 2-8 wt % of isocyanate, 7-15 wt % of a polyol, 0.3-1.0 wt % of a polyol bearing hydrophilic carboxylic monomer, and 0.1˜2.0 wt % of an acrylic ester containing a hydroxyl group to cause a reaction and form an unsaturated double bond bearing polyurethane prepolymer, the NCO content of which is approximately 2˜8%. This is followed by introducing 0.3-1.0 wt % of an alkalic neutralizer to carry out a neutralization reaction, and then 25-40 wt % of pure water is used to effect water dispersion, after which 0.1˜0.5 wt % of a chain extender is added to form an ethylenically unsaturated water dispersible polyurethane prepolymer. A reaction system is formed by adding 40-60 wt % of deionized water, 20˜30 wt % of methyl methacrylate or an acrylate monomer to the ethylenically unsaturated water dispersible polyurethane prepolymer, and 0.1˜2.0 wt % of a persulfate is used as an initiator to carry out emulsion polymerization. The aqueous emulsion via water dispersible polyurethane grafted acrylate copolymerization thus obtained is an eco-friendly solventless and pollution-free aqueous resin, and has a high molecular weight, a specific gravity of 1.03˜1.07, which is slightly greater than that of water, excellent storage stability, good permeability, and is easily worked with. The water resistance of a dried coating of the aqueous emulsion is good, and also has high extensibility, excellent tensile strength, good adhesion, and superior wear resistance.
US09074033B2 Ethylene/tetrafluoroethylene copolymer, electrical wire, and fluorine resin powder for rotational molding
The present invention provides an ethylene/tetrafluoroethylene copolymer showing good heat resistance and good crack resistance even in a high temperature environment. The present invention is an ethylene/tetrafluoroethylene copolymer, comprising: copolymerization units derived from ethylene; tetrafluoroethylene; and a fluorine-containing vinyl monomer represented by general formula: CH2═CH—Rf in the formula, Rf representing a perfluoroalkyl group containing four or more carbon atoms, a fluorine-containing vinyl monomer content being 0.8 to 2.5 mol % to a total amount of all monomers, an ethylene/tetrafluoroethylene molar ratio being 33.0/67.0 to 44.0/56.0, a CH index being 1.40 or less, a melting point being 230° C. or higher, and a melt flow rate being 40 (g/10 minutes) or less.
US09074032B2 Membranes based on polyvinyl alcohol
The invention relates to the use of silane-modified polyvinyl alcohols for producing membranes, characterized in that the silane-modified polyvinyl alcohols can be obtained by a) radically initiated copolymerization of one or more vinyl esters from unbranched or branched carboxylic acids having 1 to 15 C-atoms and one or more ethylenically unsaturated silane compounds selected from the group comprising compounds of the general formulae CR2=CR—B—Si(OR′)3-n(R″)n (1), or CR2=CRC(═O)-D-B—Si(OR′)3-n(R″)n (2), wherein B is an aryl, heteroaryl or (CR2) m residue, wherein one or more non-neighboring CR2 groups can be replaced by heteroatoms as applicable, D is a heteroatom, R is a hydrogen atom, an alkyl or aryl residue or a heteroatom that is substituted as applicable by a hydrogen atom or an alkyl, aryl residue, OR is an alkoxy, alkylcarboxy or arylcarboxy residue, R″ is an alkyl or aryl residue and n 0, 1 or 2 and in 0 to 15, and b) subsequent saponification of the silane-modified vinyl ester copolymerizate obtained in step a).
US09074028B2 Complexes of ruthenum, method for their preparation, and their application in olefin metathesis reactions
The present invention provides new ruthenium complexes of Formula (1), which contain a chelate ring created by a halogen atom X. The invention concerns also a method for the preparation of the new ruthenium complexes and their application in metathesis reactions.
US09074026B2 Polyisobutylene prepared with low diluent content reaction medium
A method of making a polyisobutylene polymer in a recirculating loop reactor with one or more reaction tubes in contact with a heat transfer medium includes: (a) providing a feed mixture consisting essentially of polymerizable monomer and catalyst to a residual reactor stream at a feed rate to form a reaction mixture, the reaction mixture containing less than 5% by weight diluent components; (b) recirculating the reaction mixture in the one or more reaction tubes of the loop reactor at a recirculation rate greater than the feed rate utilizing a recirculating pump operating at a pressure differential, delta P, corresponding to a recirculating flow; (c) polymerizing the reaction mixture in the one or more tubes of the loop reactor to convert the feed mixture to polyisobutylene polymer while cooling the one or more tubes of the loop reactor with the heat transfer medium; and (e) withdrawing polyisobutylene polymer from the loop reactor.
US09074023B2 Surface modification method, surface-modified elastic body, gasket for injector, injector, and tire
Provided are: surface modification method for imparting slidability to surface of elastic body such as vulcanized rubber or thermoplastic elastomer without using expensive self-lubricating resin; surface-modified elastic body with polymer brush formed on its surface; and gasket for injector and injector formed of surface-modified elastic body. The surface modification method applies to surface of thermoplastic elastomer or vulcanized rubber. The surface modification method comprises the step of forming hydroxyl group on surface of to-be-modified object such as rubber so that water contact angle of the surface becomes 8 to 50 degrees smaller than original water contact angle in unmodified condition, the step of forming polymerization initiation site by subjecting the hydroxyl group to action of secondary or tertiary organic halide, and the step of growing polymer brush on the surface of to-be-modified object by subjecting monomer to radical polymerization at the polymerization initiation site acting as a point of initiation.
US09074021B2 Cellulose derivative, thermo-molding material, molded body and method for preparation thereof, and case for electric and electronic devices
A thermo-molding material contains a water-insoluble cellulose derivative, wherein the water-insoluble cellulose derivative comprises: A) a hydrocarbon group; B) a group containing an acyl group: —CO—RB1 and an alkyleneoxy group: —RB2—O— (RB1 represents a hydrocarbon group, and RB2 represents an alkylene group having 3 carbon atoms); and C) an acyl group: —CO—RC (RC represents a hydrocarbon group).
US09074020B2 Cellulose derivative, resin composition, molded body, method for preparation thereof, and case for electric and electronic device
A cellulose derivative, contains A) a hydrocarbon group; B) a group containing an acyl group: —CO—RB and an ethyleneoxy group: —C2H4—O— (RB represents a hydrocarbon group); and C) an acyl group: —CO—RC (RC represents a hydrocarbon group). A method for preparing the cellulose derivative, a resin composition containing the cellulose derivative, a case for an electric and electronic device and a method for preparing a molded body are also provided.
US09074015B2 Recombinantly expressed insulin polypeptides and uses thereof
The present disclosure provides recombinantly expressed insulin polypeptides that comprise an N-linked glycan motif. The N-linked glycan motif is not present in wild-type insulins and enables the recombinant expression of glycosylated insulin polypeptides (e.g., in yeast cells). Based on results obtained with synthetic glycosylated insulin conjugates we predict that when these recombinant glycosylated insulin polypeptides are administered to a mammal, at least one pharmacokinetic or pharmacodynamic property of the glycosylated insulin polypeptide will be sensitive to serum concentrations of glucose (or an exogenous saccharide such as alpha-methyl mannose). Exemplary insulin polypeptides, polynucleotides encoding these insulin polypeptides, glycosylated insulin polypeptides, pharmaceutical formulations and sustained release formulations are provided in addition to methods of use and preparation.
US09074014B2 Analogues of glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide
A series of glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide analog compounds, pharmaceutical compositions, and the use of the GIP polypeptide analog compounds as GIP-receptor agonists or antagonists for the treatment of GIP-receptor mediated conditions, such as non-insulin dependent diabetes mellitus and obesity.
US09074013B2 Means and methods for detecting methylated DNA
The present application relates to a nucleic acid molecule having a nucleotide sequence encoding a bifunctional polypeptide comprising the DNA-binding domain of a protein belonging to the family of Methyl-CpG binding proteins (MBDs) and the Fc portion of an antibody. In addition, vectors and host cells which comprise said nucleic acid molecule and polypeptides which are encoded by said nucleic acid molecule as well as processes for producing said polypeptide are disclosed. Moreover, the present application provides an antibody specifically binding said polypeptide and compositions, in particular diagnostic compositions comprising the nucleic acid molecule(s), vector(s), host cell(s), polypeptide(s) or antibodie(s) of the present application. Furthermore, methods and uses employing the polypeptides of the present invention for detecting methylated DNA, in particular in tumorous tissue or tumor cells are provided.
US09074012B2 Molecular control of brown fat differentiation and energy expenditure
The invention provides methods and compositions for inducing brown fat cell differentiation through modulation of Prdm 16 activity or expression. Also provided are methods for preventing or treating obesity or an obesity related disorder in a subject through stimulation of Prdm 16 expression or activity. Further provided are methods for identifying compounds that are capable of modulating Prdm 16 expression or activity.
US09074008B2 Antigen binding molecules that bind EGFR, vectors encoding same, and uses thereof
The present invention relates to antigen binding molecules (ABMs). In particular embodiments, the present invention relates to recombinant monoclonal antibodies, including chimeric, primatized or humanized antibodies specific for human EGFR. In addition, the present invention relates to nucleic acid molecules encoding such ABMs, and vectors and host cells comprising such nucleic acid molecules. The invention further relates to methods for producing the ABMs of the invention, and to methods of using these ABMs in treatment of disease. In addition, the present invention relates to ABMs with modified glycosylation having improved therapeutic properties, including antibodies with increased Fc receptor binding and increased effector function.
US09074006B2 Use of HUB1 polynucleotides for improving growth characteristics in plants
The present invention relates generally to the field of molecular biology and concerns a method for improving various economically important growth characteristics in plants. More specifically, the present invention concerns inter alia a method for modifying growth characteristics in plants by modulating expression in a plant of a nucleic acid encoding a HUB1 (Histone Monoubiquitination 1) polypeptide or encoding another protein useful in the methods of the present invention. The modified growth characteristics comprise a modification of light regulated phenotypes, such as modified circadian clock and/or circadian clock responses, or modified plant architecture.
US09074005B2 Compositions and methods for modulating plant disease resistance and immunity
Provided are methods for enhancing plant cell disease resistance, comprising (1) generating a homozygous gene modification of AtSR1 (or AtSR1 ortholog or homolog) in a plant or plant cell characterized by sialic acid-mediated systemic acquired resistance (SA-mediated SAR), wherein said gene modification reduces or eliminates the calmodulin-binding activity of the respective AtSR1 or AtSR1 ortholog or homolog; or (2) expression of a recombinant or mutant AtSR1 sequence (or AtSR1 gene ortholog or homolog sequence) encoding a modified AtSR1, or AtSR1 ortholog or homolog protein, in a plant or plant cell, wherein said protein modification reduces or eliminates the calmodulin-binding activity of the respective AtSR1 or AtSR1 ortholog or homolog protein. Plants and/or plant cells comprising said modified AtSR1, or AtSR1 ortholog or homolog proteins, and/or said expression means (e.g., recombinant expression vector or expressible recombinant and/or mutant sequences), along with nucleic acids encoding said modified proteins are provided.