| Document | Document Title |
|---|---|
| US09098264B2 |
Transactional memory that performs a direct 24-BIT lookup operation
A transactional memory (TM) receives a lookup command across a bus from a processor. Only final result values are stored in memory. The command includes a base address, a starting bit position, and mask size. In response to the lookup command, the TM pulls an input value (IV). A selecting circuit within the TM uses the starting bit position and mask size to select a portion of the IV. The portion of the IV and the base address are used to generate a memory address. The memory address is used to read a word containing multiple result values (RVs) from memory. One RV from the word is selected using a multiplexing circuit and a result location value (RLV) generated from the portion of the IV. A word selector circuit and arithmetic circuits are used to generate the memory address and RLV. The TM sends the selected RV to the processor. |
| US09098263B2 |
Database application assembly and preparation
A plurality of database application components available in a first components store is received. A plurality of pointers is created with each of the plurality of pointers referencing a selected object, such as the plurality of database application components or an existing pointer to one of the plurality of database application components. The plurality of pointers is collected into a reference group defining a plurality of selected objects included in a database application. In some examples, the database application components include a header, a footer, a control, a fragment, a table, a query, a report, a relation, a form, a conditional formatting statement, a programming component, a validation statement and a module. |
| US09098255B2 |
Stopping mechanism
A stopping mechanism is disposed on a machine body and a removable device. The stopping mechanism includes a rectilinearly moving action member, a rotationally moving clipping member, and a stopping member fixedly disposed on the machine body, in which the action member pushes and presses against the clipping member so that the clipping member rotates to a holder position. The action member presses against the stopping member fixedly disposed on the machine body through a tilt angle relation at the holder position, so that an accelerating force generated by the removable device under impact is transferred to the machine body, thus dispersing the impact force. |
| US09098252B2 |
Peripheral component interconnect riser cage fastener
A fastener useable with a peripheral component interconnect riser cage is provided herein. The fastener includes a body, a rotation limiter, and a housing. The body includes an engagement end that engages with a receptacle on a sub-pan and a cap end that positions the body. The rotation limiter includes a receiving member and a positioning member. The receiving member couples with the body. The positioning member extends from the rotation limiter to limit rotation of the body coupled thereto. The housing receives the rotation limiter and the body. The housing includes a rotation aperture that receives a positioning member such that the rotation limiter is rotatable along the rotation aperture. The housing further includes a lateral aperture to receive the body such that the body is inserted through the lateral aperture and coupled to the rotation limiter. |
| US09098250B2 |
Computer assembly incorporating coupling within pantograph
A computer system with an input assembly may include a fastener positioned through a bottom chassis and into a pre-existing opening of a pantograph. In a keyboard assembly, the fastener may couple to a boss axially aligned with the pantograph housed at least partially within a keyboard key. In a touchpad assembly, the fastener may couple to a boss axially aligned with the pantograph housed underneath a tactile sensing layer. The fastener may occupy the space in the pantograph without making contact with the key or tactile sensing layer as the key or tactile sensing layer is depressed. |
| US09098241B1 |
Rollable display device
A rollable display device includes a display panel for displaying an image, a printed circuit board connected to an edge of the display panel, and a roller which the display panel is rolled onto or unrolled from. The roller has a cylindrical shape having an inner space, and the printed circuit board is disposed in the inner space. |
| US09098240B2 |
Mobile terminal and control method for the mobile terminal
A mobile terminal and corresponding method, the mobile terminal including a flexible display configured to be warped between configurations having different radiuses of curvature, a sensor configured to sense the warpage, and a controller configured to display first screen information in a first configuration, and display a first image object corresponding to the first screen information when the flexible display is warped from the first configuration to a second configuration. When a different application is driven, a second image object corresponding to the different application is displayed along with the first image object, in the second configuration, and when the flexible display is warped again from the second configuration to the first configuration, screen information corresponding to part of the first image object and the second image object is displayed. |
| US09098238B2 |
Energy deflection case
A protective case for an electronic device may have flexible components in impact areas, such as corners of the case, where the case may be designed to flex. In many embodiments, a gap may exist between the protective case and the electronic device, and impact to the case may be absorbed by the protective case before damaging the electronic device. In some embodiments, the protective case may be manufactured from a two shot molding process where a hard plastic case may have overmolded thermoplastic elastomer. Some embodiments may have two case portions that may be joined to enclose a device. Other embodiments may be a single case that snaps over a device. Still other embodiments may be a permanently attached cover that attaches using fasteners or snap features. |
| US09098237B2 |
Systems and methods for coupling electrically isolated sections of an electronic device
Each knuckle is molded in and/or around a coupling structure that is either welded to or is an integral part of the section. The coupling structure can be a bracket that is welded to an inner surface of a section, and the bracket is constructed to have a cross-section that minimizes capacitance. In one embodiment, a first bracket can be welded to a first conductive section, and a second bracket can be welded to a second conductive section. A knuckle constructed from an insulating material that is overmolded within and around the first and second brackets such that the first and second conductive sections are coupled together. The first and second conductive sections and their respective brackets are spaced a predetermined distanced apart, thereby ensuring the conductive sections are electrically isolated. |
| US09098236B2 |
Electronic device, screen control method, and storage medium storing screen control program
According to an aspect, an electronic device includes a display unit, a detecting unit, and a control unit, and composes a mail that includes an image and a text. The display unit displays a first screen and a second screen in such a manner that the first screen and the second screen do not overlap each other. The first screen displays an overview of the mail, and the second screen edits an image or a text as an element to be added to the mail. The detecting unit detects an operation. When an operation made on the second screen is detected by the detecting unit, the control unit updates the overview of the mail that is displayed on the first screen in accordance with the operation. |
| US09098233B2 |
Storage device carrier for high density storage system
A storage device carrier includes a first member and a second member. The first member includes a side portion and a front portion, perpendicularly coupled to an inside surface of a front end of the first member side portion. The first member includes a first portion of a finger grab. The second member includes a side portion and a latching feature. The latching feature is on an outside surface of a second member side portion. The second member also includes a front portion, perpendicularly coupled to an inside surface of a front end of the second member side portion. The second member includes a second portion of the finger grab. |
| US09098230B2 |
Screen sharing system, screen sharing method, and storage medium
A screen sharing system includes information processing apparatuses that display the same content on their respective screens as a shared screen. Each of the information processing apparatuses includes an operation right switching unit configured to acquire an operation right, a transmission data generating unit configured to generate transmission data including operational information of an input operation, and a drawing unit configured to draw a display object on the screen. At a transmitting information processing apparatus with the operation right, the drawing unit draws the display object according to the operational information, and the transmission data generating unit generates the transmission data including the operational information and sends the transmission data to a receiving information processing apparatus without the operation right. At the receiving information processing apparatus, the drawing unit draws the display object according to the operational information in the transmission data received from the transmitting information processing apparatus. |
| US09098226B2 |
ePOS printing over a network
A script language compatible with HTML is used to define methods or objects capable of communicating directly with an intelligent module for printing operations without going through a web browser's print selection option. A print API library provides the needed methods/objects for embedding into a web page. The intelligent module may be a stand-alone electronic device, or may be an intelligent device incorporated into a printer. The intelligent module may manage multiple printers directly or through a network, and it functions to provide a communication bridge for translating/conveying communication between the print APIs on a web page and a target printer. The print API knows the fixed IP address of the intelligent module, and define a print document or print commands and send it directly to the intelligent module by means of the known IP address. |
| US09098224B2 |
Information processing apparatus, method, and storage medium for setting a waiting time
In an image processing apparatus, a waiting time until power supply to a storage unit is stopped is suitably set corresponding to a type of input job and a state of power supply to the storage unit when the job has been input. A first waiting time is set if power is not supplied to the storage unit when the job has been input in a case where the input job is a first type of job. A second waiting time is set regardless of whether power is supplied to the storage unit when the job has been input in a case where the input job is a second type of job. Power supplied to the storage unit is controlled to stop when the waiting time has elapsed. |
| US09098223B2 |
Job information display device
Disclosed is a job information display device, including: an AR display unit configured to display an augmented reality space in which an image is overlapped with a real space viewed by a user; a recognition unit configured to recognize an image forming apparatus which exists in the real space viewed by the user; an information obtaining unit configured to obtain job information indicating an execution state of a job input to the image forming apparatus recognized by the recognition unit; and a control unit configured to instruct the AR display unit to display the augmented reality space in which the execution state of the job is indicated by a virtual paper on a paper passage of the image forming apparatus in which the job is executed, in accordance with the job information obtained by the information obtaining unit. |
| US09098220B2 |
Printing system, information processing apparatus, printing method, and program for a serverless pull printing system
A client PC generates and spools data for print according to a user's printing operation, and generates identification information for identifying itself from its own IP address to present it to the user. When the identification information is input in a multifunction peripheral, the multifunction peripheral converts the identification information into an IP address, and makes a request for transmission of print data to a client PC indicated by the IP address. In response to the request, the client PC generates print data using the spooled data and transmits the print data to the multifunction peripheral. The multifunction peripheral receives and prints the print data. |
| US09098217B2 |
Causing an action to occur in response to scanned data
Example embodiments relate to processing a scanned form by causing an action to occur. The scanned form includes a unique identifier that indicates that the action is to occur when the form is scanned. The unique identifier is detected in the scanned form data. The scanned form data may be transmitted to a server to use the unique identifier to identify the action to execute for processing the scanned data. |
| US09098216B2 |
Printer functionality enablement
In one embodiment, enablement data, indicative of an enablement state of a functionality at a network-connected printer, is received from the printer. Fulfillment data, indicative of a fulfillment state of a condition to the enablement of the functionality at the printer, is received. It is determined whether the enablement data is consistent with the fulfillment data. Responsive to determining that the enablement data is inconsistent with the fulfillment data, a change instruction is sent to the printer over a network to cause a change in the enablement state to another state that is consistent with the fulfillment data. |
| US09098206B1 |
Bi-directional queue
Some of the embodiments provide a queue comprising a plurality of memory cells arranged in a first column and a second column, the plurality of memory cells also arranged in a plurality of levels, such that ones of the levels include a corresponding memory cell of the first column and a corresponding memory cell of the second column, such that a memory cell of the first column is coupled to at least (i) another memory cell of the first column that is at a different level than a level of the memory cell of the first column and (ii) another memory cell of the second column that is at a same or a different level than the level of the memory cell of the first column; and a control module to selectively add data, selectively remove data, and selectively transfer data between the memory cells of the queue. |
| US09098204B1 |
System and method for improving cache performance
A method, computer program product, and computing system for compartmentalizing a LUN into a plurality of portions that are each assigned to one or more hosts. An ownership tracking structure is maintained for the LUN, wherein the ownership tracking structure includes a data entry associated with each of the plurality of portions within the LUN. One or more properties of the ownership tracking structure are monitored to determine if the ownership tracking structure needs to be compressed. If the ownership tracking structure needs to be compressed, one or more actions are taken to reduce the size of the ownership tracking structure. |
| US09098202B2 |
Storage apparatus and data management method
A storage apparatus comprises a storage unit configured to store data which is read/written by the host apparatus, a compression/expansion unit configured to compress the data using a predetermined algorithm to generate compressed data, and expand the compressed data, and a control unit configured to control writing of data to the storage unit, wherein the control unit is configured to manage, as compression block units, divided compressed data which is obtained by dividing compressed data compressed by the compression/expansion unit into predetermined units, and padding data. |
| US09098201B2 |
Dynamic data placement for distributed storage
A command is received to alter data storage in a cluster, along with parameters for executing the command. Information is obtained relating to one or more volumes in the cluster and information relating to devices in the cluster. A formal description of a placement function is generated that maps one or more object identifiers to a storage device set. Placement function code is generated by compiling the formal description of the placement function to computer-executable code. |
| US09098200B2 |
Storage system with virtual volume having data arranged astride storage devices, and volume management method
A virtual LU astride a plurality of storage devices is a virtual volume composed of a plurality of partial volumes. Functions of the storage system, Zoning information of a SAN and a host group information of the virtual volume are inherited to a partial volume created for each physical device. When a page granularity data migration is executed, volume or data are migrated to other storage devices without depending on the relationship between a physical port and the physical device. When a host IO request is received when migration is on-going, response processing is performed by synchronizing storage devices within the range of migration data. The host IO request related to the page being migrated sends a partial complete response including information for re-routing the request to a path of the appropriate data migration destination device capable of issuing the IO. |
| US09098199B2 |
Data receiver, clock generation device, and method for controlling data receiver
A data receiver includes a writing unit that receives transmission data including live data and excessive data for adjusting a signal length to store the live data in a storage unit, an AND circuit that generates a first signal indicating the positions of the live data and the excessive data in the signal length of the transmission data, a signal converting unit that generates a second signal indicating positions at which positions of the excessive data in the first signal are rearranged at certain intervals in the signal length, a digital phase locked loop (DPLL) unit that smoothes the positions of the live data in the second signal to generate a third signal indicating the timing to read the live data in the signal length, and a reading unit that reads the live data stored in the storage unit by using the third signal. |
| US09098198B2 |
Speed typing apparatus
A keyboard is provided having 26 letters assigned to only 17 to 21 keys, and preferably 21 keys. This advantageous system of typing makes use of either one or two hands. The 26 letters of the English alphabet are all displayed. Five keys have two letters—those letters are PQ, JK, UW, VX and YZ for a total of ten letters. Sixteen keys have one letter assigned to each key—namely the letters A, B, C, D, E, F, G, H, I, L, M, O, N, R, S and T for a total of sixteen letters assigned to a specific key—for a total of 26 letters. |
| US09098197B2 |
Operation apparatus, image forming apparatus, display control method, and medium for recording program
An operation apparatus according to the present disclosure includes a touch panel, an instruction detection unit, a different language acceptance unit, and a character string changing unit. The different language acceptance unit displays a language switching key including a character string in a different language corresponding to the first character string in the vicinity of the first character string displayed on a setting item key identified by the changing instruction thus detected, such that an input operation thereon can be accepted by the touch panel, upon detection of the changing instruction by the instruction detection unit. The character string changing unit, upon detection of an input operation to the language switching key by the touch panel, changes the language of the first character string and the second character string to character strings in a predetermined different language. |
| US09098195B2 |
Presentation system and display device for use in the presentation system
A display device according synthesizes icons and messages with a portion where no descriptive display image is displayed by OSD for display. Icon functions are set by a PC so that the setting of the operation of the PC and the display device, and the setting of an external device can be conducted. The number of lines of the message to be displayed is determined according to distortion correction at the case of oblique projection to correct position coordinates detected by a camera. In a presentation system including an interactive white board device, the display device (for example, a liquid crystal projector), and the PC, the display of the icons are improved to extend the functions, and the display of the messages at the case of oblique projection, and a position detection precision on a screen by the camera incorporated into the display device are improved. |
| US09098193B2 |
Broadcast control
A broadcast control apparatus for visual data includes a touch screen (32, 34) display panel operable to receive and display visual data simultaneously in real time from a plurality of visual sources. It also includes a touch screen graphical panel for the retrieval of control functions from a control function register. The visual data from at least one of the visual sources is selectable for use by finger pressure on the associated portion of the touch screen (32, 34) display panel and the selected data is modifiable in accordance with the retrieved control function. |
| US09098189B2 |
Resizing selection zones on a touch sensitive display responsive to likelihood of selection
An electronic device is disclosed for use with a touch-sensitive display. The electronic device includes a processor that displays indicia on the touch-sensitive display that can be touch selected by a user, and defines a size and location of a plurality of selection zones on the touch-sensitive display that are each associated with different ones of the indicia. The processor identifies a first one of the selection zones that has been selected by the user on the touch-sensitive display, and outputs a first one of the indicia that is associated with the first selection zone. The processor changes the size of a second one of the selection zones in response to it being associated with a second one of the indicia that is more likely to be selected next following selection of the first selection zone associated with the first indicia than at least another one of the selection zones. Related methods of operating an electronic device are disclosed. |
| US09098188B2 |
Display device and method for controlling the same
Disclosed herein are a display device and a method for controlling the same. Herein, the method for controlling the display device includes the steps of displaying a first object and a second object, wherein the first object is displayed so that at least a portion can overlay a first region of the second object, determining a first pressure condition being required for controlling the first object within the first region of the second object, detecting a first touch input touching a region in which the first object is displayed, detecting a second touch input controlling the first object, controlling the first object corresponding to the second touch input, when a pressure level of the first touch input satisfies the first pressure condition, and allowing the second touch input to bypass the first object, when the pressure level does not satisfy the first pressure condition. |
| US09098185B2 |
Display device, and method and computer readable medium for the same
A display device is provided, which includes a display unit configured to display one or more images thereon, an operation unit configured to accept an external operation, and a controller configured to perform a display process to control the display unit to display a plurality of images without concurrently displaying identifiers that are respectively provided to the images, and a scrolling process to, in response to the operation unit accepting a scrolling operation, control the display unit to display the identifiers to be superimposed on the images, respectively, and move the images displayed thereon, together with the identifiers in a direction responsive to the scrolling operation. |
| US09098178B2 |
Information processing apparatus and image forming apparatus
An image forming apparatus 1 of the present disclosure has a display unit 162 capable of displaying a plurality of objects such as small images and a touch detection unit 164 which meets multi-touch, these units being formed on an operation panel unit 6. A touched shape determination unit 81 calculates a touched area from touch coordinates detected by the touch detection unit 164. Then, the touched shape determination unit 81 calculates a touched shape like line strip from the touched area. A selection area setting/moving unit 82 calculates an object selection area which is a closed touched shape and selects and moves all objects which overlap the object selection area. |
| US09098171B2 |
Navigating a network of options
A method, system and controller is provided for navigating a network of options on an interactive display. A navigation pane on a display is defined (1201) and a first set of options is displayed in the navigation pane as divided subregions which may be separated by lines (1202). The options corresponding to the subregions may be identified with text or other meaningful symbols or images. Subregion area may correspond to relative importance of each option. A selector is monitored for activation when a pointer is within one of the subregions (1203). If the selected option is a node the subregion associated with the selected option may be magnified in a zooming motion and the second set of options is displayed in the navigation pane (1204, 1206, 1207). |
| US09098168B2 |
Spring motions during object animation
Particular embodiments display an object at a first position on a screen of an electronic device; and in response to a user selecting the object with one or more fingers and moving the fingers around the screen, display an animated sequence depicting the object moving around the screen tracking movements of the user's fingers, movements of the object in the first animated sequence simulating a visual effect of the object being tethered to the user's fingers by one or more springs. |
| US09098164B2 |
Physics based diagram editor
System and method for editing a graphical diagram. A graphical diagram, such as a graphical program, is displayed on a display device. User input may be received editing the graphical diagram, thereby generating an edited graphical diagram. Placement of one or more elements in the graphical diagram may be adjusted in response to the editing based on determined forces applied to the one or more elements in the edited graphical diagram based on the said editing, resulting in an adjusted edited graphical diagram. The adjusted edited graphical diagram may be displayed on the display device, which may include displaying an animation illustrating the movement of the elements to an equilibrium state in which the forces balance and movement ceases. The editing, adjusting, and displaying may be performed sequentially and/or concurrently, as desired. |
| US09098163B2 |
Internet TV module for enabling presentation and navigation of non-native user interface on TV having native user interface using either TV remote control or module remote control
A display device receive icon or application information from an audio visual application module (AVAM) and presents, on the native UI of the display, a selectable AVAM icon according to the information from the AVAM. The AVAM icon is associated with an application on the AVAM. Display input is automatically switched to the AVAM responsive to selection of the icon from the native UI using the display RC, at which point a non-native UI received from AVAM is presented for navigation using the display RC. Input commands are relayed to the AVAM. |
| US09098162B2 |
Touch panel including graphene and method of manufacturing the same
A touch panel comprising a first substrate; a second substrate disposed facing the first substrate; a first conductive layer disposed on at least one surface of the first substrate; a second conductive layer disposed on at least one surface of the second substrate; first electrodes electrically connected to the first conductive layer; and second electrodes electrically connected to the second conductive layer, wherein at least one of the first conductive layer and the second conductive layer comprises graphene. |
| US09098152B2 |
Dielectric layer for touch sensor stack
In one embodiment, a touch sensor includes a substrate comprising a first surface. The touch sensor also includes a plurality of first electrodes comprising one or more conductive materials on the first surface. The touch sensor further includes a dielectric layer attached at least indirectly to the first electrodes and at least a portion of the first surface. The dielectric layer is configured to face an electronic display panel with an air gap between the dielectric layer and the electronic display panel. The dielectric layer has a refractive index of less than approximately 1.5. |
| US09098149B2 |
Group radio control
A method, system and apparatus for grouped radio controls. A grouped radio control can include a listing of elements, each element having a specified grouping. The grouped radio control also can include grouping logic programmed to insert elements into, delete elements from, and select elements within the listing. Finally, a grouped radio control can include a grouped radio control interface configured to accept interface events for processing in the grouping logic. |
| US09098147B2 |
Ranging apparatus, ranging method, and interactive display system
A ranging apparatus including an image sensor, an imaging lens, and a processor is provided. The imaging lens is configured to image an object on the image sensor to produce an image signal having at least one image parameter, wherein the at least one image parameter changes with a change of an object distance of the object. The processor is configured to determine the change of the object distance according to a change of the at least one image parameter. A ranging method and an interactive display system are also provided. |
| US09098144B1 |
Adaptive ambient light auto-movement blocking in optical navigation modules
Embodiments of optical navigation modules (ONM) and methods of operating the same to block auto-movement due to ambient light are described. Generally, the method includes: (i) collecting a plurality of PD signal samples from a photodiode (PD) in an optical navigation module (ONM); (ii) determining a peak-to-peak variation (ΔPD) in the plurality of PD signal samples; (iii) comparing the peak-to-peak variation (ΔPD) to a specified threshold peak-to-peak variation (ΔPDSPEC); and (iv) if ΔPD is less than ΔPDSPEC, suppressing reporting of motion data derived from signals from a photodetector array (PDA) in the ONM to block auto-movement in an output from the ONM. Other embodiments are also described. |
| US09098142B2 |
Sensor arrangement for use with a touch sensor that identifies hand parts
Apparatus and methods are disclosed for simultaneously tracking multiple finger and palm contacts as hands approach, touch, and slide across a proximity-sensing, multi-touch surface. Identification and classification of intuitive hand configurations and motions enables unprecedented integration of typing, resting, pointing, scrolling, 3D manipulation, and handwriting into a versatile, ergonomic computer input device. |
| US09098118B2 |
Computer keyboard with pointer control
A computer pointer control device includes a support base and a keyboard. The device includes a structure configured to reduce friction between the support base and an underlying surface. A wrist support is positioned on the support base, configured to receive a user's wrist thereon such that keys of the keyboard are under the fingers of the user's hand, while the user is able to slide the device over the underlying surface by applying lateral pressure to the wrist support. A position tracking mechanism coupled to the device detects horizontal movement of the base over the underlying surface and transmit a signal to an associated computer to control an on-screen pointer. The keyboard includes a column of special use keys between the right- and left-hand keys, for easy access to selected functions. |
| US09098116B2 |
Object and movement detection
Motions, positions or configurations off, for example a human hand can be recognized by transmitting a plurality of transmit signals in respective time frames; receiving a plurality of receive signals; determining a plurality of channel impulse responses using the transmit and receive signals; defining a matrix of impulse responses, with impulse responses for adjacent time frames adjacent each other; and analyzing the matrix for patterns (22) corresponding to the motion position or configuration. |
| US09098113B2 |
Hybrid display device
The invention relates to a display device (100-300) that comprises an image display unit (IDU) for displaying a visual image in combination with an adjacent topology display unit (TDU) that can controllably change the topology on a tactile display surface (TDS). Hence both visual and tactile information can be represented and can be related to each other by a control unit (CU). |
| US09098111B2 |
Focus guidance within a three-dimensional interface
Methods, systems, and computer-readable media providing focal feedback and control in a three-dimensional display. Focal anchors are provided at different depths and used to determine at what depth the user is currently focusing. The focal anchors are also used to receive input from the user. By looking at a focal anchor, the use can cause the portion of content associated with the focal anchor to be displayed more prominently relative to content displayed at different depths. In one embodiment, predictive feedback is provided at a depth associated with one of the focal anchors. |
| US09098106B2 |
Systems and methods for creating application interfaces for forming and solving problems in a modeling system
An apparatus for generating an application data structure includes a physical computing system comprising processor(s), input device(s), display(s), and memor(ies). The memory includes executable instructions that cause a processor to perform the acts of embedding a multiphysics model data structure for a physical system in an application data structure. Application features are determined to add to the application data structure. First data is added representing a form feature for the application features for the model of the physical system. Second data is added representing at an action feature for the application features. The second data is associated with at least one modeling operation to define a sequence of operations for modeling the physical system. The application data structure is updated including the added first and second data and the associating defining the sequence of operations. The updated application data structure is stored on the memory device(s). |
| US09098101B2 |
Supply noise current control circuit in bypass mode
A proposed inrush control circuit may work in the presence of supply noise. A linear regulator in bypass mode may be designed for inrush current control, but may be susceptible to irregularities from increased supply noise. The circuit may include a splitting of the bypass power MOS that are switched on with some delay during the power on to control the initial power-on inrush current. |
| US09098100B2 |
Voltage regulator with improved reverse current protection
There is provided a voltage regulator equipped with a reverse-current prevention function capable of ensuring safe performance without causing a large overshoot at an output terminal against a sharp fluctuation in source voltage. The voltage regulator provides a source voltage fluctuation detecting circuit for detecting a fluctuation in source voltage in a comparison circuit for comparing the source voltage with output voltage so that when the source voltage rises sharply, the current through constant current circuits for limiting the consumption current of the comparison circuit will be increased to improve the response characteristics. |
| US09098096B2 |
Continuous intelligent-control-system update using information requests directed to user devices
An intelligent control system includes intelligent thermostats and controls an environment, such as a residential living space, commercial building, or another environment. The intelligent control system obtains information related to the controlled environment by collecting sensor data, obtaining data from users during interactive information-exchange sessions, and by directing information queries to users on one or more user devices. |
| US09098093B2 |
Model predictive control of biofuel denaturant blending
The present invention provides novel techniques for controlling the blending of multiple fluids. In particular, the present techniques are presented in the context of biofuel production, wherein blending of a denaturant with an undenatured biofuel may be controlled and optimized. However, the present techniques may also be applied to any other suitable applications, such as the production of petroleum products, where multiple fluids may be blended. |
| US09098088B2 |
Method for building outdoor map for moving object and apparatus thereof
The method for building an outdoor map for a moving object according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention includes: receiving a real satellite image for an outdoor space to which the moving object is to move; calculating pixel information including sizes of length and width pixels and a physical distance of one pixel in the real satellite image; measuring a reference position coordinate for a reference position selected from the real satellite image; and linking a pixel number corresponding to the reference position, the reference position coordinate, and the pixel information to the real satellite image in order to build the outdoor map for the moving object, and further includes creating information on a road network in which the moving object navigates based on the pixel number corresponding to the reference position, the reference position coordinate, and the pixel information. |
| US09098087B2 |
System and method for adjusting the operation of a machine
A system for controlling movement of a machine includes a drive system, a position sensor, and a communications system. A controller is configured to determine the position of the machine and determine a signal transmission threshold based at least in part upon the position of the machine. The controller may stop movement of the machine upon an interruption in signal transmission from a remote system exceeding the signal transmission threshold. |
| US09098084B2 |
Transport carriage system and method for controlling running of transport carriage
In a transport carriage system, multiple transport carriages travel along a common track and each transport carriage includes a servo system that performs servo control with respect to traveling of the transport carriage, and an intermediate instruction of the servo system is generated in a predetermined cycle by an acceleration/deceleration control unit of a traveling control unit. A smoothed instruction is generated for the predetermined cycle by smoothing the generated intermediate instruction over a plurality of cycles with a smoothing unit of the traveling control unit, and the servo system is controlled based on the smoothed instruction that was generated. |
| US09098076B2 |
Management device of emission amount or reduction amount of greenhouse gases, and management method
A management device of the emission amount or reduction amount of greenhouse gases including: a communication unit that performs communication with an IC card on which an ID and history information on activities outside of a designated area are recorded; a control unit that performs authentication by the read ID via the communication unit, and in a case when authentication is successful, reads the history information via the communication unit, and obtains information relating to the emission amount or reduction amount of greenhouse gases from the read history information; and a display unit that displays the information relating to the emission amount or reduction amount of greenhouse gases. |
| US09098073B2 |
Biometric authentication apparatus and biometric authentication method
The present invention is a biometric authentication apparatus comprising, a fingertip sensor mounted on a tip placement surface of a tip placement section for placing a tip of a finger cushion said fingertip sensor detecting displacement of an arrangement position of a finger on the tip placement surface of the tip placement section, wherein the biometric authentication apparatus detects the displacement of a position of the tip of the finger cushion. |
| US09098065B2 |
Photopolymer formulation for producing holographic media
The invention relates to a photopolymer formulation, comprising at least one polyol component, a polyisocyanate component, a write monomer, a photoinitiator, and a catalyst, wherein the photopolymer formulation has an activation temperature >8300 K. The invention further relates to a method for producing a holographic medium, to a holographic medium that can be obtained according to the method according to the invention, and to the use of a holographic medium according to the invention for producing a hologram. |
| US09098054B2 |
Interlock switch mechanism and image formation device utilizing the same
Disclosed are an interlock switch mechanism and an image formation device. The interlock switch mechanism comprising a main body; a first link rod which is disposed on the main body, and may swing by centering on a supporting point, wherein, a supporting shaft is disposed at one end of the first link rod; a second link rod which is supported by the supporting shaft, wherein, two ends of the second link rod may swing by centering on the supporting shaft; an action part which, under a second force, may touch one end of the second link rod so as to cause another end of the second link rod to swing toward an actuator; and a stroke extension mechanism which, under a first force, may cause the first link rod to swing so as to cause the other end of the second link rod to swing toward the actuator. |
| US09098049B2 |
Cleaning device, process cartridge incorporating same, and image forming apparatus incorporating same
A cleaning device, which is included in a process cartridge or an image forming apparatus, includes a cleaning member including a brush rotary body that is disposed in contact with an image carrier provided in an image forming apparatus and that removes toner on the image carrier and holds the toner thereon, a toner conveying rotary body to collect and convey the toner removed by the cleaning member, a flicker contacting the cleaning member to flick off the toner held on the cleaning member, and an agitator that has a free end contacting the toner conveying rotary body and vibrating due to rotation of the toner conveying rotary body. The agitator further has a trajectory being formed between the opening and the toner conveying rotary body by movement of the free end. Alternatively, the free end of the agitator is disposed facing the flicker. |
| US09098047B2 |
Image forming apparatus with a supporting structure to support movable parts
An image forming apparatus, including an image forming unit; a resin-made frame to support the image forming unit; a drive source arranged on a one-end side of a transmission path to generate driving force; a gear arranged on the other-end side of the transmission path to be rotated, while one of axial ends of a shaft of the gear is supported by the frame; a metal-made first supporting member fixed to the frame to support the other of axial ends of the shaft of the gear thereon; a metal-made second supporting member fixed to the frame to support the drive source thereon and; an endless belt; a first pulley supported by the second supporting member to transmit the driving force to the endless belt, the first pulley being; and a second pulley having the endless belt strained there-around and supported by the first supporting member, is provided. |
| US09098046B2 |
Printing apparatus, control method of printing apparatus, and storage medium
The present invention aims to shift a printing apparatus to a job processable state by releasing a manual stapling mode in response to an execution instruction of a predetermined job requested by a user. To achieve this, a control method of the printing apparatus comprises: printing an image on a sheet by executing a job; transporting the sheet on which the image was printed, to a post-processing apparatus; causing the post-processing apparatus to perform a post-process; shifting the printing apparatus to a mode of permitting to perform the post-process to the sheet inserted by a user; and controlling, in a case where an execution request of the job is newly accepted, to release the mode according to a kind of the job. |
| US09098040B2 |
Image forming apparatus, and image carrier moving apparatus for use in image forming apparatus
An exposure portion scans, in an axial direction, light which is emitted from a light source based on image data of a document sheet, and applies the light to surfaces of image carriers, to form an electrostatic latent image on each image carrier. The cleaning member is disposed so as to contact with each image carrier and removes residual toner on each image carrier, to perform cleaning. The driving mechanism causes each image carrier to shuttle in the axial direction with a predetermined amplitude while the image carrier is driven to rotate. The detecting member detects positional information representing a position, in the axial direction, obtained when each image carrier shuttles. The control portion controls, based on a result of detection by the detecting member, a time when scanning on each of the image carriers by the exposure portion is to be started. |
| US09098035B2 |
Fixing device and heater used in fixing device
A heater used for a fixing device includes a substrate, first and second conductor patterns formed at either end of the substrate in the short direction of the substrate, a third conductor pattern formed between the first and second conductor patterns and separated from the two conductor patterns, a first heating member disposed between the first and third conductor patterns and electrically connected to the two conductor patterns, and a second heating member disposed between the second and third conductor patterns and electrically connected to the conductor patterns. The heater has both end regions in which the widths of the third conductor pattern in the short direction is smaller than that of a middle portion of the third conductor pattern. The widths of the first and second heating members in the end regions are smaller than the widths of the first and second heating members in the other region, respectively. |
| US09098033B2 |
Heater and image heating device having same heater
The present invention is directed to providing a heater in which uniformity of a temperature distribution in a widthwise direction of the heater can be improved while inhibiting a temperature rise of a non-sheet-passing part, and an image heating device equipped with the heater. In a first heat-generation line and a second heat-generation line, a plurality of heat-generation resistors including positive resistance-temperature characteristics between two electro-conductive elements provided on a substrate along the lengthwise direction of the substrate are connected in parallel. The first heat-generation line and the second heat-generation line are connected in parallel. |
| US09098032B2 |
Image head apparatus including overheating preventing element configured to interrupt electrical power supply to heater
An image heating apparatus includes: a rotatable cylindrical belt; a heater, provided inside the belt, for heating the belt; and an overheating preventing element, including a circuit which is opened when abnormal temperature rise occurs, for interrupting electric power supply to the heater. The overheating preventing element is provided at a position, inside the belt, where the overheating preventing element is free from direct heat radiation emitted from said heater. |
| US09098030B2 |
Image forming apparatus
An image forming apparatus having: an endless fixing belt; a heating member heating the fixing belt; a support member maintaining the fixing belt substantially circular; a pressing member in contact with the fixing belt to form a fixing nip portion; a temperature sensor; a position detector; a storage storing temperatures and positions of the fixing belt detected by the temperature sensor and the position detector; and a control unit. The control unit is operable in a characteristic storing mode and in a fixing mode. In the characteristic storing mode, temperatures of the fixing belt associated with positions are detected, and the detected temperatures and positions are stored in the storage. In the fixing mode, temperatures of the fixing nip portion are predicted with reference to the temperatures and positions stored in the storage, and the heating member is controlled such that the predicted temperatures become a target temperature. |
| US09098025B2 |
Image forming apparatus with interlocking mechanism
An image forming apparatus includes a fixing unit having a heating member that heats a recording medium, a backup member that rotates and contacts the heating member, and a pressure mechanism that supports one of the heating member and the backup member such that the one of the heating member and the backup member moves relative to the other. The apparatus includes a main body including the fixing unit inside, and has a first opening on a downstream side of the fixing unit and a second opening on a side of the main body different from the first opening. Also the apparatus has first and second covers that open and close the first and second openings, respectively, and an interlocking mechanism that causes the pressure mechanism to move the one of the heating member and the backup member in conjunction with movement of the first cover and the second cover. |
| US09098022B2 |
Method and apparatus for generating differential gloss image using laser energy
A method and system for enabling an image production device to generate differential gloss for a print includes exposing a toner image of a material to laser to cause one or more portions of the toner image to melt. The material includes the toner image and a substrate. The substrate is to remain substantially unaffected by the laser. |
| US09098019B2 |
Toner replenishment mechanism with simple constitution, image forming apparatus with toner replenishment mechanism, and toner replenishment control method
A toner replenishment mechanism includes a motor, a first ratchet mechanical unit, and a second ratchet mechanical unit. The motor includes a rotation shaft with a pinion. The first ratchet mechanical unit engages the pinion. The first ratchet mechanical unit transmits only rotary drive power in a forward direction by the pinion to a driven mechanism disposed at a first toner replenishment unit. The first toner replenishment unit replenishes a first developer unit with a first color toner. The second ratchet mechanical unit engages the pinion. The second ratchet mechanical unit transmits only rotary drive power in a reverse direction by the pinion to a driven mechanism disposed at a second toner replenishment unit. The second toner replenishment unit replenishes a second developer unit with a second color toner. |
| US09098016B2 |
Roller, developing roller, developing device, process cartridge, and image forming apparatus
A roller includes a cylindrical body having openings on both ends thereof and a press-fit member fitted in at least one of the openings of the cylindrical body with an outer circumferential face thereof in contact with an inner face of the cylindrical body. The outer circumferential face of the press-fit member is grooved obliquely to an axis of the cylindrical body, and the inner face of the cylindrical body is smooth at least in a portion that contacts the outer circumferential face of the press-fit member. |
| US09098015B2 |
Toner cartridge
A toner cartridge comprises a toner container which contains toner, a driving member which rotationally drives a conveying member, an agitating member which agitates a toner in the toner container while being rotated, a driven member which rotates in association with the driving member which is for rotationally driving the agitating member, and a rotational body which rotates according to rotation of the driven member, has a plurality of slits in rotational circumference for identifying a type of the toner cartridge, and has 1/K or more of the slits when a ratio of a rotational speed R1 (rad/s) of the driving member and a rotational speed R2 (rad/s) of the driven member is K=R2/R1. |
| US09098014B2 |
Developing device and image forming apparatus
A developing device includes a developing agent bearing member and a regulating member. The developing agent bearing member bears on a surface thereof a developing agent including colored particles and additive particles disposed on the surface of the colored particles. The surface of the developing agent bearing member includes first and second dielectric portions. The regulating member regulates the thickness of a layer of developing agent borne by the developing agent bearing member. In triboelectric series, the first dielectric portion is between the regulating member and the additive particles, the additive particles are between the first dielectric portion and the second dielectric portion, and the second dielectric portion is between the additive particles and the colored particles. The difference between the work functions of the colored particles and second dielectric portion is smaller than that between the second dielectric portion and additive particles. |
| US09098013B2 |
Developing roller, developing device, process cartridge, and image forming apparatus
A developing roller, including: a shaft containing a metal; an elastic layer on a circumference of the shaft; and a surface layer on a circumferential surface of the elastic layer, wherein the surface layer contains: a polyurethane which is a reaction product between a fluoroethylene vinyl ether copolymer and an isocyanurate form of an isocyanate; and particles having an average primary particle diameter of 5 nm to 30 nm, and wherein the polyurethane has a peak intensity ratio of a NCO group to a hydroxyl group of 5.6 to 8.8 in an infrared absorption spectrum obtained by an attenuated total reflection method. |
| US09098011B2 |
Development device
A typical configuration of a development device for an image forming apparatus includes a development sleeve and an electrode portion. In the development device, a pre-bias is applied between the electrode portion and the photosensitive drum, a DC voltage is applied to the development sleeve, a development bias is applied between the development sleeve and the photosensitive drum, the toner in the developer on the development sleeve is moved to the photosensitive drum, and an electrostatic latent image is developed on the photosensitive drum. In the development device, the electric field intensity between the electrode portion and the development sleeve by the pre-bias is larger than the electric field intensity between the image bearing member and the development sleeve by the development bias. |
| US09098007B2 |
Charging member, charging device, process cartridge, and image forming apparatus
A charging member includes a conductive elastic layer, and a conductive surface layer that is disposed on the conductive elastic layer, is in contact with an image holding member, and contains a resin, porous resin particles, and silicone oil, wherein a content of the porous resin particles is from 3 parts by weight to 25 parts by weight based on 100 parts by weight of the resin, and a content of the silicone oil is from 0.1 part by weight to 10 parts by weight based on 100 parts by weight of the resin. |
| US09098006B2 |
Roller member for electrophotography, process cartridge and electrophotographic apparatus
The roller member has a substrate and an electroconductive elastic layer. The elastic layer has a crown shape of which an outer diameter at the middle in the lengthwise direction is larger than those at its both ends. The elastic layer includes a bowl-shaped resin particle. The surface of the roller member has concavity derived from an opening of the bowl-shaped resin particle and a protrusion derived from an edge of the opening of the resin particle. The relation in the restoring rate for elastic deformation between at the middle of the roller member and at its both ends is such that: on the surface of the elastic layer the restoring rate is larger at both ends than that at the middle, and at the position of depth t μm from the elastic layer surface the restoring rate is larger at the middle than that at both ends. |
| US09098004B2 |
Liquid developer
A liquid developer containing toner particles containing a resin and a pigment, and an insulating liquid, the toner particles being dispersed in the insulating liquid, wherein the insulating liquid contains an olefin having 12 carbon atoms or more and 18 carbon atoms or less in an amount of 10% by mass or more. The liquid developer of the present invention can be suitably used in developing latent images formed in, for example, an electrophotographic method, an electrostatic recording method, an electrostatic printing method, or the like. |
| US09098003B2 |
Toner
A toner including toner particles containing a binder resin, a colorant and a charge controlling agent, wherein the charge controlling agent is a polymer A having a structure “a” represented by formula (1), and the polymer A has a weight average molecular weight (Mw) of 1,000 to 100,000: wherein R1 represents a hydroxyl group, a carboxyl group, an alkyl group having 1 to 18 carbon atoms, or an alkoxyl group having 1 to 18 carbon atoms, R2 represents a hydrogen atom, a hydroxyl group, an alkyl group having 1 to 18 carbon atoms, or an alkoxyl group having 1 to 18 carbon atoms, and g represents an integer of 1 to 3 and h represents an integer of 0 to 3, wherein when h is 2 or 3, R1 can be each independently selected. |
| US09098002B2 |
Toner
A toner including toner particles, each of which comprising a charging component, a polymer having a partial structure represented by the following formula (1) as the side chain, and a colorant: (R1 represents a hydroxyl group, a carboxyl group, an alkyl group having 1 to 18 carbon atoms, or an alkoxyl group having 1 to 18 carbon atoms; R2 represents a hydrogen atom, a hydroxyl group, an alkyl group having 1 to 18 carbon atoms, or an alkoxyl group having 1 to 18 carbon atoms; m represents an integer of 0 to 3; if m is 2 or 3, R1 can be each independently selected; n represents an integer of 1 to 3; and * represents a coupling site in the polymer.) |
| US09097996B2 |
Silicon dioxide powder having special surface properties and toner composition containing said powder
The invention relates to silicon dioxide powder which is present in the form of aggregated primary particles having an average diameter of at least 40 nm and a ratio of the BET surface area to the STSA surface area of at least 3.5. The invention also relates to a toner composition containing said silicon dioxide powder. |
| US09097994B2 |
Abrasive-free planarization for EUV mask substrates
A process for abrasive-free chemical mechanical planarization of silicon thin film coated EUV mask substrates is disclosed. The process removes bumps and pits on the substrate thereby mitigating reflective errors in the mask. The process employs a two-step polishing procedure, in which the second step is abrasive-free and uses an amine or amine salt as the polishing agent. |
| US09097993B2 |
Optical element and lithographic apparatus
An optical element includes a surface including a tilted profile having height differences, thereby providing cavities and elevations having a predetermined maximum height difference, and a transmissive layer that covers the cavities and the elevations of the optical element. A first height of the transmissive layer in the cavities is substantially equal or larger than the predetermined maximum height difference and the transmissive layer has a second height on the elevations and the second height is about 10-500 nm. The transmissive layer is enabled to optically filter incident radiation, and the optical element is a grating. |
| US09097990B2 |
Lithographic apparatus and stage system
A stage system includes an object table constructed to hold an object, a short stroke actuator element constructed to displace the object table over a first range of movement, and a long stroke actuator element constructed to displace the short stroke actuator element over a second range of movement which is larger than the first range of movement. The stage system further includes a pneumatic compensation device including: a sensor arranged to measure a quantity representative of a pneumatic disturbance force on the short stroke actuator element, an actuator arranged to provide a compensating force to at least partly compensate the pneumatic disturbance, and a controller. The sensor is connected to a controller input of the controller, the actuator is connected to a controller output of the controller, the controller being arranged to drive the actuator in response to a signal received from the sensor. |
| US09097988B2 |
Exposure apparatus and device manufacturing method
In an immersion exposure apparatus, a projection system includes an optical element having a light emitting surface that contacts immersion liquid and an outer surface above the light emitting surface. A holding member holds the optical element, and a liquid confinement member surrounds the optical element to form a gap between the optical element and the liquid confinement member. The outer surface of the optical element includes a first part extending upwardly with respect to the light emitting surface, and a second part above the gap and extending radially outwardly with respect to the first part. The gap is between the first part and an inner surface of the liquid confinement member, which has an upper surface extending radially outwardly with respect to the inner surface. The holding member holds the optical element over a portion of the upper surface of the liquid confinement member. |
| US09097983B2 |
Scanned-spot-array EUV lithography system
In an EUV scanned-spot-array lithography system, a modulated array of radiation beams diverging from object spots on an object surface and is projected onto a printing surface via a two-mirror projection system similar to a flat-image, Schwarzschild system. Each beam converges to a diffraction-limited image point on the surface, and the surface is scanned in synchronization with the beam modulation to print a synthesized, high-resolution raster image. The spot-generation optics can be configured to compensate for object field curvature, distortion, and geometric point-imaging aberrations in the projection system, enabling diffraction-limited printing without coherent proximity effects over the full image field. The spot-generation optics can use either micromirrors or transmitting microlenses, and can be diffractive (e.g., phase-Fresnel lenses) or non-diffractive. Chromatic dispersion in either refractive or diffractive elements can be substantially eliminated by configuring the micro-optics as Schupmann achromatic doublets. |
| US09097982B2 |
Radiation system, radiation collector, radiation beam conditioning system, spectral purity filter for radiation system and method for forming a spectral purity filter
A radiation system is configured to generate a radiation beam. The radiation system comprising a chamber that includes a radiation source configured to generate radiation, a radiation beam emission aperture, and a radiation collector configured to collect radiation generated by the source, and to transmit the collected radiation to the radiation beam emission aperture. The radiation collector includes a spectral purity filter configured to enhance a spectral purity of the radiation to be emitted via the aperture. |
| US09097972B2 |
Method of applying photoresist to a semiconductor substrate
A method comprises dispensing a first solvent on a semiconductor substrate; dispensing a first layer of a high-viscosity polymer on the first solvent; dispensing a second solvent on the first layer of high-viscosity polymer; and spinning the semiconductor substrate after dispensing the second solvent, so as to spread the high-viscosity polymer to a periphery of the semiconductor substrate. |
| US09097971B2 |
Compound, radical polymerization initiator, method for producing compound, polymer, resist composition, and method for forming resist pattern
A compound represented by formula (I). In the formula, R1 represents a hydrocarbon group of 1 to 10 carbon atoms; Z represents a hydrocarbon group of 1 to 10 carbon atoms or a cyano group; provided that R1 and Z may be mutually bonded to form a ring; X represents a divalent linking group having any one selected from —O—C(═O)—, —NH—C(═O)— and —NH—C(═NH)— on a terminal that comes into contact with Q; p represents an integer of 1 to 3; Q represents a hydrocarbon group having a valency of (p+1), provided that, when p is 1, Q may be a single bond; R2 represents a single bond, an alkylene group which may have a substituent or an arylene group which may have a substituent; q represents 0 or 1; r represents an integer of 0 to 8; and A+ represents a metal cation or an organic cation. |
| US09097969B2 |
Compound, resist composition and method of forming resist pattern
A compound represented by general formula (b1) shown below (in the formula, Y1 represents a divalent linking group; W represents S, Se or I; R1 represents a hydrocarbon group; represents an alkyl group of 1 to 5 carbon atoms or an alkoxy group of 1 to 5 carbon atoms; when W represents I, m+n=2, and when W represents S or Se, m+n=3, provided that m≧1 and n≧0; p represents an integer of 0 to 5; and X− represents a counteranion. |
| US09097968B1 |
Audiovisual presentation system comprising an enclosure screen and outside projectors directed towards the enclosure screen
An audiovisual presentation system includes a transparent system enclosure and at least one projector outside the system enclosure and generally directed toward an exterior surface of the system enclosure. The system enclosure is formed in a dome shape, a hemispherical shape, a spherical shape, or any other reasonable shape. The system can include a plurality of projectors to present individual images or can be computer altered to present a continuous, panoramic image. The image can be of any quality or format, including high definition (HD) three-dimensional (3D), and others. A plurality of audiovisual input stations may be disposed about an interior of the enclosure. Each station may include a podium, a computer, a video recorder, an audio device, and a user control interface. The station enables the user to manipulate the video camera and/or the video image as desired. |
| US09097967B2 |
Projection device
A projection device includes a first and a second tilting mirror matrix, each including a plurality of tilting mirrors. A cover glass covers the tilting mirrors. An imaging lens system includes a relay lens system which images the tilting mirrors of the first tilting mirror matrix onto the tilting mirrors of the second tilting mirror matrix. Thus light reflected by the tilting mirrors of the first tilting mirror matrix onto tilting mirrors of the second tilting mirror matrix, and a projection lens system, which projects light reflected by tilting mirrors of the second tilting mirror matrix, in order to produce an image, is provided. The imaging lens system further includes a correction element which corrects at least one image error caused by the light obliquely passing through the cover glasses. |
| US09097959B2 |
Collapsible photographic light diffuser
A portable photographic light diffuser is configured to be mounted to a photographic light source on a camera, the portable photographic light diffuser including a base adapted to engage the photographic light source on the camera, the base defining a socket; and a cowl extending from the base, the cowl being transformable between an expanded configuration, wherein the cowl extends by a first length from the base, and a collapsed configuration, wherein the cowl extends by a second length from the base, the second length being less than the first length. |
| US09097958B2 |
Camera module
There is provided a camera module including: a housing including a lens barrel disposed therein; a first shield can coupled to the housing so that a lower end portion of an outer surface of the housing is exposed; a circuit board mounted at the lower end portion of the housing; and a second shield can covering the first shield can and the lower end portion of the housing, wherein the second shield can is provided with protrusion parts pressing an outer surface of the first shield can. |
| US09097953B2 |
Semiconductor device, and method of forming the same
In order to realize a semiconductor device of enhanced TFT characteristics, a semiconductor thin film is selectively irradiated with a laser beam at the step of crystallizing the semiconductor thin film by the irradiation with the laser beam. By way of example, only driver regions (103 in FIG. 1) are irradiated with the laser beam in a method of fabricating a display device of active matrix type. Thus, it is permitted to obtain the display device (such as liquid crystal display device or EL display device) of high reliability as comprises the driver regions (103) made of crystalline semiconductor films, and a pixel region (102) made of an amorphous semiconductor film. |
| US09097952B2 |
Array substrate and liquid crystal display device
An array substrate and a liquid crystal display device adopt a four-domain electrode structure and have advantages of improving the gradient of a V-T curve and contrast, achieving ideal response time, and the like. The array substrate comprises gate lines, data lines and pixel units defined by the gate lines and the data lines. Pixel electrodes (10) and common electrodes (11) arranged on the same layer are formed in the pixel units. Both the common electrodes (11) and the pixel electrodes (10) adopt a comb structure, and comb teeth of the common electrodes (11) and comb teeth of the pixel electrodes (10) are alternately arranged. Each comb tooth of the comb structure is divided into an upper comb tooth (13) and a lower comb tooth (14) in different directions by a node (12). All the upper comb teeth (13) are parallel to each other, and all the lower comb teeth (14) are parallel to each other. For a pixel electrode (10) and a common electrode (11) that are neighboring each other, a spacing (151) between two upper comb teeth (13) is unequal to a spacing (152) between two lower comb teeth (14). |
| US09097947B2 |
Display device and manufacturing method thereof
A display device includes a display panel and a shutter panel provided on a viewable side of the display panel. The shutter panel includes a plurality of first transparent electrodes provided over a first substrate, a plurality of second transparent electrodes provided over a second substrate, and a liquid crystal provided between the first substrate and the second substrate. The first transparent electrodes and the second transparent electrodes are arranged in striped patterns in a first direction and are both spaced in a second direction intersecting the first direction. Potentials of the first transparent electrodes and potentials of the second transparent electrodes are controlled to adjust an alignment of the liquid crystal, so that the shutter panel is provided with light-shielding regions arranged in a striped pattern in the first direction and spaced in the second direction and light-transmitting regions each of which is provided between the light-shielding regions. |
| US09097944B2 |
Liquid crystal display device having particular electrodes structure
According to one embodiment, a liquid crystal display device includes a first substrate including a first source line and a second source line, a first main pixel electrode of a strip shape, a second main pixel electrode of a strip shape. The first substrate is configured such that a first distance between the first main pixel electrode and the first source line is less than a second distance between the first main pixel electrode and the second source line, and a third distance between the second main pixel electrode and the first source line is greater than a fourth distance between the second main pixel electrode and the second source line. |
| US09097941B2 |
Vertically aligned liquid crystal display
A vertically aligned type liquid crystal display includes a liquid crystal layer disposed between pixel electrodes and a common electrode and containing vertically aligned liquid crystal molecules, the orientation of the liquid crystal molecules being controlled by an electric field. An orientation controller is formed on the common electrode at a position opposing the pixel electrode and an aspect ratio, i.e., a vertical to horizontal length ratio of the pixel electrode is set to at least 2. Alternatively, the pixel electrode is partitioned into at least two electrode regions so that each region represents a divided pixel electrode. An orientation controller is formed on the common electrode so as to correspond to each divided pixel electrode, an aspect ratio of each divided pixel electrode is set to at least 2. As such, the influence at the edge sections of the pixel electrode is reduced, viewing angle characteristic and transmittance are improved, and average response time is shortened. |
| US09097940B2 |
LCD panel having obstructing frames and method of manufacturing the same
A liquid crystal display (LCD) panel, comprising a first substrate and a second substrate assembled face to face, each having a display area and a peripheral area around the display area, liquid crystal, and sealant formed between the peripheral area of the first substrate and the peripheral area of the second substrate. On the first substrate, at least one first obstructing frame is formed between the sealant and the display area of the first substrate; on the second substrate, at least one second obstructing frame is formed between the sealant and the display area of the second substrate; the first obstructing frame and the second obstructing frame are disposed at an interval and parallel to each other; each of the first obstructing frame and second obstructing frame has a thickness smaller than a cell gap, and a sum of the thicknesses of a pair of the first obstructing frame and second obstructing frame that are adjacent to each other is greater than the cell gap. |
| US09097935B2 |
Fixing device of diffusing plate and display apparatus having the same
A display apparatus includes a liquid crystal display panel configured to display an image, and a backlight unit configured to emit light to the liquid crystal display panel, wherein the backlight unit includes a bottom chassis comprising an accommodation space configured to accommodate a plurality of light sources, a middle mold provided on the bottom chassis, a diffusing plate provided on the middle mold, and a fixing member provided on an outer surface of the bottom chassis and configured to contact one side of the diffusing plate and prevent movement of the diffusing plate. |
| US09097932B2 |
Liquid crystal display device and method of manufacturing the same
A liquid crystal display device and a method of manufacturing the liquid crystal display device are provided. The liquid crystal display device includes: a first substrate, a second substrate opposing the first substrate, an interconnection portion on the first substrate, an ultraviolet light blocking portion adjacent to both sides of the interconnection portion, an organic film on the first substrate and covering the interconnection portion and the ultraviolet light blocking portion, a liquid crystal layer between the organic film and the second substrate, and a sealing member overlapping the interconnection portion and surrounding the liquid crystal layer between the organic film and the second substrate. The liquid crystal display device reduces or minimizes organic film defects caused by radiating ultraviolet light to form the sealing member. |
| US09097930B2 |
Flat panel display
A flat panel display including a flat display device; and a window protecting the flat display device, the window transmitting light emitted from the flat display device, wherein the flat display device is in a concave recess on one side of the window. |
| US09097929B2 |
Electronic apparatus and liquid crystal panel
According to one embodiment, an electronic apparatus includes a liquid crystal panel. The liquid crystal panel includes a first glass substrate, a second glass substrate, a first electrode on the first glass substrate, a second electrode on the second glass substrate, a liquid crystal portion, and a seal around the liquid crystal portion. The first electrode includes a first portion corresponding to the liquid crystal portion, a second portion corresponding to the seal, and a third portion electrically connecting the first portion and the second portion. The third portion is configured to disconnect an electrical connection between the first portion and the second portion when the second portion of the first electrode and the second electrode are short-circuited. |
| US09097928B2 |
Capacitive touch panel and display device
A capacitive touch panel is disclosed. The touch panel includes a substrate, and a black matrix formed on the substrate, where the black matrix includes a plurality of light-permeable regions. The touch panel also includes a plurality of color units each aligned with one of the light-permeable regions of the black matrix in a light permeation direction, where each of the color units includes a color resistor of one of a plurality of colors, and at least one transparent conductive layer includes a plurality of slots, where the slots of the transparent conductive layer are aligned with the color units of the same color in the light permeation direction. |
| US09097927B2 |
Mobile terminal
A display module includes: a main liquid crystal panel having a plurality of pixel regions formed on a surface thereof so as to display visual information; a barrier panel spaced a predetermined gap from the surface in the thickness direction so as to cover the surface of the main liquid crystal panel; and a refractive portion including at least one glass substrate so as to fill the gap. The freedom of design may be increased since the display module can maintain a prescribed thickness, and the portability may be improved by increasing rigidity. |
| US09097926B2 |
Substrate of display device, display device and manufacturing method for display panel
A display device substrate includes a transparent substrate arranged in parallel with a face on which an image is displayed and a light-shielding film partially formed on the transparent substrate for shielding light. The light-shielding film has, at a portion of the transparent substrate along an edge thereof on at least one side, a low light-shielding portion having a lower light-shielding capability. The low light-shielding portion is formed with a smaller thickness than that of the other portion in the light-shielding film. With this configuration, even when, in a gang printing display panel in which a plurality of display panels each having the display device substrate are arranged, the light-shielding films of the display panels adjacent to each other are formed continuously, cutting can be performed more easily at a position to be cut. |
| US09097922B2 |
Liquid crystal display device
There is provided a liquid crystal display (LCD) device that prevents light leaks near spacers. The LCD device controls the optical transmissivity of a liquid crystal layer interposed between substrates disposed opposite each other, by means of an electric field generated in the layer-thickness direction of the liquid crystal layer. The LCD device includes spacers on a liquid-crystal-side surface of one substrate, signal lines formed on a liquid-crystal-side surface of the other substrate, an insulating film formed to cover the signal lines, and electrodes on the insulating film's upper surface. Each electrode contributes to controlling the optical transmissivity of the liquid crystal layer. Each spacer has a vertex surface disposed opposite to the signal lines. A portion of each electrode extends to the upper surface of a corresponding signal line. The extended portion is opposite to a part of a spacer's vertex surface disposed opposite to the corresponding signal line. |
| US09097921B2 |
Active matrix display device
An active matrix display device has: a first auxiliary wiring line (700); a second auxiliary wiring line (710) positioned outside of a plurality of second lead-out wiring lines (250) and a first driver circuit in a plan view; and an external auxiliary wiring line (790). Along each of a plurality of connecting wirings (900) are disconnected portions (91) inhibiting electrical connections between a plurality of transmission terminals and first common wiring lines (130). A plurality of intersections (901), where the first auxiliary wiring line (700) and the plurality of connecting wirings (900) intersect, are positioned more to the side of the plurality of transmission terminals than to the disconnected portions (91) in each of the plurality of connecting wiring lines (900). |
| US09097917B2 |
Electronic display screen modular unit structure
An electronic display screen modular unit structure includes a modular unit which includes a pair of support boards and illumination strips. Through holes of the pair of support boards are provided with coupling members for connecting modular units, such that the modular units can be connected up and down as well as left and right. When each pair of support boards are separated from each other, the illumination strips can be unfolded flat to form a display screen at a predetermined width and height. Connecting plugs at two ends of a conductive wire are respectively connected with an output connecting terminal of the modular unit and an input connecting terminal of another adjacent modular unit, such that the modular units can be coupled and electrically connected with each other to form a display screen which is light and can be hanged on the wall or suspended. |
| US09097916B2 |
Photochromic materials having extended pi-conjugated systems and compositions and articles including the same
The present invention provides ophthalmic devices comprising at least one photochromic material which is an indeno-fused naphthopyran having a pi-conjugation extending group bonded to the 11-position of the indeno-fused naphthopyran, the pi-conjugation extending group having at least one pendent halo-substituted group bonded thereto. The pi-conjugation extending group extends the pi-conjugation system of said indeno-fused naphthopyran. The 13-position of the indeno-fused naphthopyran is substantially free of spiro-substituents. The invention further provides photochromic materials of specified structure, photochromic compositions, photochromic articles and optical elements that include the photochromic materials. Other non-limiting embodiments relate to methods of making the ophthalmic devices comprising photochromic materials. |
| US09097913B2 |
Foldable eyeglasses
A foldable eyeglasses includes a first lens, a second lens and a foldable structure. The second lens is arranged correspondingly to the first lens; the foldable structure is installed between the first and second lenses; the foldable structure includes a first and a second securement stands, a swivel member and a universal joint. The first and second securement stands are attached to the first and second lenses respectively; the swivel member is pivotally attached to the first securement stand; the universal joint is constructed by a turning head portion extended from the swivel member and a receiving slot provided on the second securement stand; the turning head portion is pivotally attached to the receiving slot. Accordingly, the eyeglasses can have a significantly reduced folded size for storage and portability. |
| US09097912B2 |
Lens barrel and optical appliance
A lens barrel includes a first retaining member to retain a first driving unit, a second retaining member to retain a second driving unit, a fixing cylinder in which the first retaining member and the second retaining member are disposed adjacent to each other in an optical axis direction, and a cam cylinder disposed about an outer circumference of the fixing cylinder rotatable in a circumferential direction, and the first and the second retaining members are moveable in the fixing cylinder following a same trajectory according to a rotation of the cam cylinder. |
| US09097909B2 |
Manipulation device for navigating virtual microscopy slides/digital images and methods related thereto
Featured is a manipulation device the ability to navigate virtual microscopy slides. The device includes an inverted light emitting diode (LED) reflecting light off a textured slide to a complimentary metal oxide semiconductor (CMOS) sensor that indicates the movement of the slide. The slide is freely moved by hand or traditional X-Y-mechanical stage on a raised platform akin to a slide stage. Finger touch controls are provided to zoom to higher or lower power images. The device plugs into a standard computer system by USB port running software to image a virtual microscope slide. Also featured are systems and methods related thereto. |
| US09097908B2 |
Reinforced multi-body optical devices
Disclosed in one example embodiment is a method for fabricating a reinforced multi-body optical device. One method involves applying a coating to sides of an interior plate and bonding two plates to either side of the interior plate. The bonded plates are diced at an angle that is not orthogonal to the bonded plates. The top and bottom portions of a diced section are removed to form a multi-body polarization beam splitter (PBS) having a generally rectangular perimeter. A supporting plate is bonded to the multi-body PBS to form a reinforced multi-body PBS, wherein the supporting plate has a CTE that is within about 0.5 parts per million of the CTE of the multi-body PBS. The multi-body PBS is grinded to reduce the thickness of the multi-body PBS. |
| US09097907B2 |
Projector having retardation films upstream and downstream of a polarization switching liquid crystal panel
A projector includes a light modulation unit including a liquid crystal device that modulates illumination light to form image light and a light exiting-side polarizer that causes the image light from the liquid crystal device to exit as linearly polarized light, a first retardation film that changes the polarization state of the image light from the light exiting-side polarizer into circular polarization or elliptical polarization, a polarization switching liquid crystal panel that switches the polarization state of the image light from the first retardation film in accordance with a control signal, a second retardation film that changes the polarization state of the image light from the polarization switching liquid crystal panel into linear polarization, and a birefringent substrate that selectively refracts a light component polarized in a direction corresponding to a specific switching state of the polarization switching liquid crystal panel among the image light from the second retardation film. |
| US09097900B2 |
Quantitative phase microscopy for high-contrast cell imaging using frequency domain phase shift
Some systems described herein include a frequency dependent phase plate for generating multiple phase-contrast images of a sample, each from a different frequency range of light, each phase-contrast image for frequency range of light formed from light diffracted by the sample interfered with undiffracted light that has a frequency-dependent baseline relative phase shift from the phase plate. In some embodiments, the multiple phase-contrast images may be used to generate a quantitative phase image of a sample. The phase-contrast images or the produced quantitative phase image may have sufficient contrast for label-free auto-segmentation of cell bodies and nuclei. |
| US09097899B2 |
Achromatic scanner having a monochromatic f-theta objective
An achromatic scanner in which pre-scan optics and post-scan optics are designed and disposed with respect to one another in such a way that for a light beam imaged onto the target surface a first image plane of the pre-scan optics coincides with a first object plane of the post-scan optics for a first beam portion and a second image plane of the pre-scan optics coincides with a second object plane of the post-scan optics for a second beam portion, wherein an image plane of the post-scan optics which lies on the target surface is associated with the first object plane of the post-scan optics and the second object plane of the post-scan optics. |
| US09097898B2 |
Optical scanning apparatus and image forming apparatus including a multi-faceted mirror to deflect a light beam
An optical scanning apparatus scans a target surface with a light beam along a main scanning direction. The apparatus includes a light source, an optical deflector which includes a rotating multi-faceted mirror, each surface of the multi-faceted mirror acting as a reflecting surface to deflect the light beam from the light source, and a scanning optical system configured to guide the light beam deflected by the optical deflector to the target surface. An angle which is formed between the light beam toward the reflecting surface of the optical deflector and the corresponding reflecting surface and which includes a reflected light reflected from the corresponding reflecting surface is always obtuse. |
| US09097897B2 |
Optical deflector including narrow piezoelectric sensor element between torsion bar and piezoelectric actuator
In an optical deflector including a mirror, a support frame surrounding the mirror, at least one torsion bar arranged along an axis of the mirror having an end coupled to an outer circumference of the mirror, a pair of piezoelectric actuators arranged between the support frame and the torsion bar, and a piezoelectric sensor inserted between the torsion bar and one of the piezoelectric actuators, the piezoelectric sensor includes at least one piezoelectric sensor element having a width being smaller than two-fifths of a width of the one of the piezoelectric actuators and being arranged at a wide portion within two-fifths of the width from an inner end of the one of the piezoelectric actuators. |
| US09097896B2 |
Correcting spatial beam deformation
The invention disclosed here teaches methods and apparatus for altering the temporal and spatial shape of an optical pulse. The methods correct for the spatial beam deformation caused by the intrinsic DC index gradient in a volume holographic chirped reflective grating (VHCRG). The first set of methods involves a mechanical mean of pre-deforming the VHCRG so that the combination of the deflection caused by the DC index gradient is compensated by the mechanical deformation of the VHCRG. The second set of methods involves compensating the angular deflection caused by the DC index gradient by retracing the diffracted beam back onto itself and by re-diffracting from the same VHCRG. Apparatus for temporally stretching, amplifying and temporally compressing light pulses are disclosed that rely on the methods above. |
| US09097895B2 |
Optical deflector including mirror with recessed rib on its rear surface
In an optical deflector including a mirror, a rib formed at an outer circumference of the mirror, a support frame surrounding the mirror, at least one torsion bar arranged along an axis of the mirror and coupled between the support frame and the mirror, and a pair of actuators arranged between the support frame and the torsion bar, a recess opposing the torsion bar is formed within the rib. |
| US09097892B2 |
Optical observation device with at least one visual observation beam path
An optical observation device with at least one visual observation beam path includes an objective lens, an eyepiece, an Abbe König prism system, a Porro prism system or a Schmidt Pechan prism system, arranged in the at least one visual observation beam path between the objective lens and the eyepiece, a display device for displaying an additional image in the visual observation beam path to the observer, and a device for image superposition, which has a holographic optical element, and which uses the holographic optical element to superpose onto the image of the display device the image of a target object to be observed in an intermediate image plane of the visual observation beam path. The prism system is provided with the at least one holographic element of the at least one device for image superposition. |
| US09097888B2 |
Electrowetting display device with light diffuser
An electrowetting display device includes at least one picture element having a first support plate, a second support plate and a space between the first support plate and the second support plate. The first support plate includes a reflector for reflecting light and the second support plate includes a light diffuser. |
| US09097885B2 |
Device having a conductive light absorbing mask and method for fabricating same
A system and method for an optical component that masks non-active portions of a display and provides an electrical path for one or more display circuits. In one embodiment an optical device includes a substrate, a plurality of optical elements on the substrate, each optical element having an optical characteristic which changes in response to a voltage applied to the optical element, and a light-absorbing, electrically-conductive optical mask disposed on the substrate and offset from the plurality of optical elements, the optical mask electrically coupled to one or more of the optical elements to provide electrical paths for applying voltages to the optical elements. In another embodiment, a method of providing an electrical signal to optical elements of a display comprises electrically coupling an electrically-conductive light-absorbing mask to one or more optical elements, and applying a voltage to the mask to activate the one or more optical elements. |
| US09097881B2 |
Zoom lens system, optical apparatus and method for manufacturing zoom lens system
A zoom lens system comprising, in order from an object side: a first lens group G1 having negative refractive power; and a second lens group G2 having positive refractive power, a distance between the first lens group and the second lens group varying upon zooming from a wide-angle end state to a telephoto end state, the first lens group G1 including, in order from the object side, a first lens component having negative refractive power, a second lens component having negative refractive power, a third lens component having positive refractive power, and a fourth lens component having positive refractive power, thereby providing a downsized zoom lens system having excellent optical performance, an optical apparatus equipped therewith and a method for manufacturing the zoom lens system. |
| US09097873B2 |
Port mapping in fiber optic network devices
A fiber optic network device comprising an input port adapted to receive a multi-fiber cable having active optical fibers designated in a consecutive sequence is disclosed. A first plurality and a second plurality of optical fibers are disposed within the fiber optic network device. The first plurality of optical fibers aligns to a first section of the consecutive sequence and a second plurality of optical fibers aligns to a second section of the consecutive sequence. A plurality of drop ports in the fiber optic network device are adapted to optically couple ones of the first plurality of optical fibers to at least one drop cable. A pass-through port is adapted to optically couple the second plurality of optical fibers to a second fiber optic network device through a multi-fiber adapter in a central alignment at the pass-through port. |
| US09097870B2 |
Rapid multi-service terminal
A method for installing a drop terminal includes providing a drop terminal assembly including a drop terminal having an exterior surface, a first cable spool engaged to the exterior surface of the drop terminal, a second cable spool engaged to the first cable spool and a fiber optic cable having a first length disposed about the first cable spool and a second length disposed about the second cable spool. The drop terminal assembly is rotated to deploy the second length of fiber optic cable. The second cable spool is removed. The first length of fiber optic cable is bundled. The bundled first length of fiber optic cable is removed from the first cable spool. The drop terminal is removed from the first cable spool. The drop terminal is mounted to a structure. |
| US09097869B2 |
Multifiber subunit cable
Micromodule subunit cables are constructed to allow for ease of identification between optical fibers in differing groups of optical fibers. In one cable, a first group of fibers is located within a first subunit while a second group of fibers is located within a second subunit, both subunits being enclosed in a cable jacket. |
| US09097868B2 |
Method for checking the correct installation of a bend-insensitive optical cable and optical cable suitable for the method thereof
A method for detecting faulty laying down of an optical cable exhibiting a measured cut-off wavelength includes providing an optical cable for transmitting optical signals including at least one single-mode optical fiber having an attenuation equal to or larger than a first threshold value as measured when wound for one turn around a bending radius equal to or smaller than 5 mm at at least one predetermined test wavelength, the test wavelength being smaller than the measured cut-off wavelength, and an attenuation smaller than a second threshold value as measured when wound for one turn around a bending radius equal to at least a minimum bending radius at an operative wavelength equal to or larger than the measured cut-off wavelength; laying the optical cable; and measuring the attenuation in the at least one optical fiber at the predetermined test wavelength. An optical cable includes at least one optical fiber that is bend sensitive at a predetermined test wavelength not larger than the measured cut-off wavelength and is bend insensitive at an operative wavelength larger than the measured cut-off wavelength, where the cable operates in single-mode regime. |
| US09097865B2 |
Optical communication device with planar optical waveguide
An optical communication device includes a planar optical waveguide, a first substrate, a light emitting element, and a light receiving element. The planar optical waveguide includes a top surface and a light guide portion. The light guide portion includes a first sloped surface and a second sloped surface. The first substrate includes a mounting surface. The first substrate is supported on the top surface. An end of the first substrate defines a first receiving hole. The other end of the first substrate defines a second receiving hole. The light emitting element is received in the first receiving hole and faces the first sloped surface at about a 45 degree angle. The light receiving element is received in the second receiving hole and faces the second sloped surface at about a 45 degree angle. |
| US09097863B2 |
Optical fiber connector
An optical fiber connector includes a main body, lens portions, and optical fibers. The main body includes a first side surface and a second side surface opposite to the first side surface. The main body defines a cavity between the first and second side surfaces, and a number of accommodating holes extending through the first side surface and communicating with the cavity. The cavity includes an inner surface. The lens portions are positioned on the second side surface, and each lens portion is coaxial with a corresponding accommodating hole. A focal plane of each lens portion overlaps the inner surface. The optical fibers are fixed in the accommodating holes. An end of each optical fiber is fixed at the focal plane of a corresponding lens portion. The main body includes a bottom surface and defines a through hole in the cavity. The through hole passes through the bottom surface. |
| US09097857B2 |
Polarizing plate and method for producing polarizing plate
A polarizing plate with high reliability even under a high-temperature or high-humidity environment is provided. A substrate has a non-formation region on a circumferential edge part, the non-formation region where a grid is not formed. |
| US09097855B2 |
Adhesive, polarizing plate including an adhesive layer prepared from the adhesive, and optical member including the polarizing plate
An adhesive for adhering a protective film, the protective film having a water vapor transmission rate of about 100 g/m2·day or less at 40° C. and about 90% RH during manufacture of an optical member including a polarizing plate, a polarizing plate including an adhesive layer prepared from the adhesive, and an optical member including the polarizing plate, the adhesive including a (meth)acrylic copolymer, the (meth)acrylic copolymer having a weight average molecular weight of about 800,000 g/mol or more; a curing agent; and a silane coupling agent, wherein an adhesive layer prepared from the adhesive has a storage modulus, after curing, of about 8×103 Pa or more at about 85° C. and a frequency of about 10−3 rad/s to about 102 rad/s. |
| US09097851B2 |
System and method for compensating instability in an autofocus system
An autofocus system and method designed to account for instabilities in the system, e.g. due to instabilities of system components (e.g. vibrating mirrors, optics, etc) and/or environmental effects such as refractive index changes of air due to temperature, atmospheric pressure, or humidity gradients, is provided. An autofocus beam is split into a reference beam component (the split off reference channel) and a measurement beam component, by a beam splitting optic located a predetermined distance from (and in predetermined orientation relative to) the substrate, to create a first space between the beam splitting optic and the substrate. A reflector is provided that is spaced from the beam splitting optic by the predetermined distance, to create a second space between the reflector and the beam splitting optic. The measurement beam component is directed at the substrate and a reflected measurement beam component through the first space between the substrate and the beam splitting optic, while the reference beam component is directed at the reflector and a reflected reference beam component is directed from the reflector through the second space between the beam splitting optic and the reflector. The reflected reference and measurement beam components are returned to the beam splitting optic, and emerge substantially collinear from the beam splitting optic. The reference and measurement beam components are then detected, and provide information that enables compensation for changes in the z position of the substrate that are due to instabilities in the autofocus system components and/or environmental factors. |
| US09097846B2 |
Integrated waveguide coupler
A waveguide coupler includes a first waveguide and a second waveguide. The waveguide coupler also includes a connecting waveguide disposed between the first waveguide and the second waveguide. The connecting waveguide includes a first material having a first index of refraction and a second material having a second index of refraction higher than the first index of refraction. |
| US09097843B2 |
First surface mirror, method of making the same, and scanner and/or copier including the same
A first surface mirror including for example a substrate, a reflective layer (including aluminum, an aluminum alloy, silver, and/or a silver alloy), a dielectric layer, and an overcoat layer, a method of making the same, and a scanner and/or copier including the same are provided. |
| US09097841B2 |
Fresnel lens array with novel lens element profile
A Fresnel lens array is provided in which the vertical part of a lens element is replaced by a tilted surface designed to focus impinging light into the focal point of an adjacent lens in the array. Since the new surface forms an angle with the lens plane that is shallower than the vertical step, such a lens element configuration may ease the molding of the lens array in glass type materials. The configuration is not limited to cylindrical arrays, since another array with lens elements perpendicular to the first lens array may be molded on the other side of the lens sheet, resulting in an array of point focusing lenses. Furthermore, by placing mirrors at the edges of the lens array (or at the edge of a single lens thereof) with surfaces perpendicular to the lens plane, the edge light rays may be redirected back to the said focal point(s). In particular, single circular lenses, with lens element cross-sections similar to the one described above and with a vertical mirror at the edge, will also concentrate collimated light to the focal point. |
| US09097839B2 |
Method for making silicone hydrogel contact lenses
The invention provide a method for making silicone hydrogel based on the Lightstream Technology from a monomer mixture with a curing time of less than about 100 seconds. The present invention is also related to silicone hydrogel contact lenses made according to methods of the invention. |
| US09097838B2 |
Aromatic polycarbonate resin composition and molded articles for optical use which are made using same
Provided are an aromatic polycarbonate resin composition and molded articles for optical use using the same, the resin composition having improved light transmittance and luminance and, at the same time, being able to withstand molding even at a high temperature.More specifically, provided are the aromatic polycarbonate resin composition and molded articles for optical use using the same, the resin composition comprising 100 parts by mass of an aromatic polycarbonate resin (A) and 0.1 to 5 parts by mass of polyoxytetramethylene-polyoxyethylene glycol (B). |
| US09097837B2 |
Optical film, optical compensation film, polarizing plate and liquid crystal display
An optical film is provided and has retardations satisfying relations (1) to (3): 0≦Re(550)≦10; (1) −25≦Rth(550)≦25; (2) and |I|+|II|+|III|+|IV|>0.5 (nm), (3) with definitions: I=Re(450)−Re(550); II=Re(650)−Re(550); III=Rth(450)−Rth(550); and IV=Rth(650)−Rth(550), wherein Re(450), Re(550) and Re(650) are in-plane retardations measured with lights of wavelength of 450, 550 and 650 nm, respectively; and Rth(450), Rth(550) and Rth(650) are retardations in a thickness direction of the optical film, which are measured with lights of wavelength of 450, 550 and 650 nm, respectively. |
| US09097834B2 |
Optical fiber and optical fiber preform
An optical fiber preform has a core portion having a first core portion including a central axis, a second core portion disposed around the first core portion, and a third core portion disposed around the second core portion. The first core portion contains 10 atomic ppm or more of an alkali metal and 10 to 600 atomic ppm of chlorine, the second core portion contains 10 atomic ppm or less of the alkali metal and 10 to 600 atomic ppm of chlorine, and the third core portion contains 10 atomic ppm or less of the alkali metal and 2,000 atomic ppm or more of chlorine. An optical fiber has a core region doped with an alkali metal and chlorine, wherein the minimum concentration of chlorine in the core region is 1,000 atomic ppm or more, and the average concentration of the alkali metal therein is 0.2 atomic ppm or more. |
| US09097831B2 |
Surface light source device, light guide element used for surface light source device, and method for producing light guide element
Disclosed is a plate-like light guide element (24) provided with a light incident surface, a light exit surface (242), and an underside surface (243) disposed on the opposite side of the light exit surface (242). A foamed surface layer (244) is formed on at least a part of at least either the light exit surface (242) or the underside surface (243). The foamed surface layer (244) contains air bubbles and has a recessed sectional surface including the normal direction of the light exit surface (242) or the underside surface (243). The light guide element (24) is produced by performing infrared laser etching for at least a part of at least one of the main surfaces of a plate-like light guide element material composed of an acryl resin plate produced by a continuous plate production method, to form the foamed surface layer (244). |
| US09097830B2 |
Illuminating device, image reading apparatus including the illuminating device, and image forming apparatus including the image reading apparatus
An illuminating device capable of stably illuminating an irradiated object such as a document while suppressing light loss with a simply structure is provided.An LED array and a reflective plate are disposed sandwiching a slit (St) through which light reflected by a document MS passes and a light-guiding member is disposed on the side of the LED array. The light-guiding member includes a direct emission unit disposed between an illumination range y centered on a document reading position and the LED array and an indirect emission unit disposed between the reflective plate and the LED array, a light incidence face of the direct emission unit and a light incidence face of the indirect emission unit are disposed at mutually different position around the LED array, and the LED array is disposed on a side of an interior angle formed by the light incidence faces. |
| US09097827B2 |
Light guiding plate
A light guide plate includes a light incident surface, a light output surface, a bottom surface opposite to the light output surface, and a plurality of dots formed on the bottom surface. Each dot includes a first curved surface, a second curved surface and two flat surfaces separately interconnecting the first curved surface and the second curved surface. The first curved surface is configured for perpendicularly reflecting light towards the light output surface. The second curved surface is configured for scattering and reflecting light back into the light guide plate. The two flat surfaces are configured for diverging light to lateral sides of an original path. |
| US09097825B1 |
White tape in a front light display component stack
A front light component for electronic devices that include displays for rendering content using a light guide to control illumination for a front light display. A high reflectivity “white” tape is used under and adjacent to the light guide to improve overall uniformity of the light beams. The high reflectivity tape may also be selected to be of a controlled white hue to compensate for variances in color of Light Emitting Diodes (LEDs) where the LED color is slightly off from ideal white. In this way the complementary color of the high reflectivity tape with the color of the LED will cause the output spectrum to be uniform and white. This disclosure also describes techniques for assembling electronic devices in a component stack to provide enhanced display uniformity and improved reading experience. |
| US09097823B2 |
Lens array, and lens array manufacturing method
Provided is a lens array including a plate-shaped light-absorbing material that is provided with plural holes separated from each other, and a lens formed of a polymer in each of the holes. |
| US09097822B2 |
Lenticular lens sheet and process for production thereof, and optical element
Provided are a lenticular lens sheet which can be used in a stereoscopic display, a rear projection display, a projection screen, and the like, and means for manufacturing the lenticular lens sheet at low cost without using any mold. The lenticular lens sheet includes at least a transparent support substrate; a plurality of lenticular lenses; and a partition between adjacent ones of the plurality of lenticular lenses, and the lenticular lens sheet is obtained by applying a transparent resin composition ink by an inkjet method to an area partitioned by the partition and subsequently curing the transparent resin composition ink with ultraviolet rays. |
| US09097819B2 |
Thermoelastic logging
A method for thermoelastic logging in a borehole of a subterranean formation. The method includes generating, by a computer processor, a reference dispersion based on a borehole wave dispersion measurement of the borehole, wherein the reference dispersion represents far-field elastic properties in the subterranean formation, analyzing, by the computer processor, a difference between the reference dispersion and the borehole wave dispersion measurement based on a thermoelastic model of the subterranean formation to generate an analysis result, and determining, by the computer processor and based on the analysis result, a temperature dependent parameter of the subterranean formation. |
| US09097815B2 |
Method for subsurface electromagnetic surveying using two or more simultaneously actuated electromagnetic sources
A method for determining a formation response form a detected electromagnetic signal resulting from a first electromagnetic signal imparted into a subsurface earth formation and from a second electromagnetic signal imparted into the formation, the first and second signals being imparted substantially contemporaneously. The detected signals are deconvolved using the first electromagnetic signal. The deconvolved detected signal is used to estimate the formation response to the first electromagnetic signal. Convolving the estimated formation response from the estimated formation response with the first electromagnetic signal and subtracting a result of the convulsion with the first electromagnetic signal from the detected signal. |
| US09097812B2 |
Solid imaging device and X-ray CT device including the solid imaging device
The present invention relates to a solid-state imaging device, etc. having a structure for capturing a high-resolution image even when any row selecting wiring is disconnected. The solid-state imaging device (1) comprises a photodetecting section (10), a signal reading-out section (20), a row selecting section (30), a column selecting section (40), an overflow preventing section (50), and a controlling section (60). The photodetecting section (10) has M×N pixel portions P1,1 to PM,N two-dimensionally arranged in a matrix of M rows and N columns, and each of the pixel portions P1,1 to PM,N includes a photodiode that generates charge of an amount according to an incident light intensity and a reading-out switch connected to the photodiode. Each of the N pixel portions Pm,1 to Pm,N belonging to an m-th row is connected to the row selecting section (30) and the overflow preventing section (50) by an m-th row selecting wiring LV,m. |
| US09097811B2 |
Radiographic image detector
A flat panel detector (FPD) includes an imaging panel having pixels arranged in a matrix, a gate driver for turning thin film transistors (TFTs) of the pixels ON and OFF, a radiation detecting section for detecting the start of x-ray radiation from the x-ray source, and a controller. The controller controls the gate driver to turn the TFTs ON periodically to reset dark charges of the pixels. Before starting a charge accumulating operation for accumulating signal charges for imaging, the controller controls the gate driver to turn the TFTs OFF so that the radiation detecting section may detect the start of x-ray radiation on the basis of charge leaks from the pixels. When the start of x-ray radiation is detected, the controller starts the charge accumulating operation while keeping the TFTs in the OFF condition. Thereafter, the TFTs are turned ON to read out the accumulated signal charges. |
| US09097810B2 |
Direct radiation converter, radiation detector, medical apparatus and method for producing a direct radiation converter
A direct radiation converter is disclosed which includes a radiation detection material having an anode side and a cathode side in which the radiation detection material has a doping profile running in the anode-side to cathode-side direction. A radiation detector is further disclosed having such a direct radiation converter and having an anode array and a cathode array, and optionally having evaluation electronics for reading out a detector signal, as well as a medical apparatus having such a radiation detector. Also described is a method for producing a direct radiation converter which includes incorporating into a radiation detection material a doping profile running in the anode-side to cathode-side direction. |
| US09097809B2 |
Radiographic detector including trap occupancy change monitor and feedback, imaging apparatus and methods using the same
Embodiments of radiographic imaging systems; digital radiography detectors and methods for using the same can monitor and/or control trap occupancy levels in photosensors of radiographic sensors (e.g., DR FPDs). In exemplary radiographic imaging apparatus embodiments, monitoring of trap occupancy or change in trap occupancy of the photosensor can determine whether an imaging array or detector panel has reached a stable operating point. In another embodiment, trap occupancy information can be used (a) to enable a generator (e.g., x-ray source) for a radiographic exposure and/or (b) to adjust to or to maintain a change in trap occupancy level at pre-determined set-point or to adjust to or maintain a change in trap occupancy level within a prescribed range (e.g., using clock signals and bias voltages applied to the photosensor). |
| US09097798B2 |
Method for positioning determinations of receivers
The disclosed method and system is used to determine the position of a user device. The user device can receive data signals and/or carrier signals from orbiting space vehicles. These data signals can be used for positioning calculation and/or track maintenance of the user device. The disclosed method and system can account for time and frequency biases of the user device. For the track maintenance, a Kalman filter state estimator can be extended to include a velocity of the user device. |
| US09097797B2 |
Antenna device and radar apparatus
An antenna device includes transmitting units each of which includes elements arranged parallel to a baseline, wherein the transmitting units are arranged side-by-side in a first direction and stepwisedly with steps in a second direction in a first region and a second region, the first direction being perpendicular to the baseline, the second direction being parallel to the baseline, the first region and the second region being partitioned by the baseline, and transmitting units positioned more remotely from the baseline being positioned further in the second direction. |
| US09097795B2 |
Proximity detecting apparatus and method based on audio signals
Apparatus comprising at least one processor and at least one memory including computer code, the at least one memory and the computer code configured to with the at least one processor cause the apparatus to at least perform: determining at least one impulse response model pulse train from at least one audio signal; and determining an presence of an object from the at least one impulse model pulse train. |
| US09097794B2 |
Ultrasound doppler detection method with Golay code excitation
An ultrasound Doppler detection method with Golay-encoded excitation is used to obtain the flow information of a moving object. A first Golay code is transmitted to the moving object for a reflection signal of the first Golay code and a second Golay code is transmitted to the moving object for a reflection signal of the second Golay code after waiting for a pulse repetition interval. The received reflection signals are match-filtered to generate a first and a second wave. The above steps are repeated several times. Then, a slow-time filter in the Doppler frequency domain whose low-pass cut-off frequency is a quarter of the pulse repetition frequency is used to filter out the first sidelobes of the first waves and the second sidelobes of the second waves. Finally, the ultrasound Doppler detection is formed according to the first mainlobes of the first waves and the second mainlobes of the second waves. |
| US09097793B2 |
System for the detection of incoming munitions
A system for detecting munitions in flight comprises a radar transmitter, receiver, and associated antennas, wherein the antennas are oriented to include ground level coverage, and where a receive antenna is arranged to provide a plurality of receive beams. The system further incorporates a Doppler filter arranged to reject targets that have velocity profiles that do not match those expected of targets of interest. If a target of interest is detected then an indication is provided, preferably in the form of an audible alert, allowing those nearby time to take cover. The system provides a simple munitions detection capability that may operate in CW mode to allow rapid detection, and may also have means such as switchable FMCW, and elevation measurement to allow estimation of possible landing areas of the target. |
| US09097791B2 |
Radar device
The disclosed technique includes transmitting a signal intermittently according to a transmission cycle having a predetermined transmission period and a non-transmission period; receiving the signal reflected from a target with reception antennas; and detecting the target from the reflected signal. A high-frequency transmission signal attenuated during the transmission period and a receipt signal received during the non-transmission period are combined together. A correlation value between a reference transmission signal and the receipt signal in the combined signal is calculated, and the amount of phase shift in an arbitrarily selected reception antenna is calculated from the correlation value of a reference reception antenna, and the correlation values of the other reception antennas. The phase component of the correlation value of the arbitrarily selected reception antenna is corrected on the basis of the amount of phase shift. |
| US09097787B2 |
Location method and system using colliding signals
A method comprises: receiving colliding signals by a receiver from a plurality of signal sources, such that the receiver has a respective non-zero probability of detecting and identifying the colliding signals from each respective one of the signal sources at a given time. The colliding signals are configured with at least one common transmission parameter value so as to interfere with each other, so that the receiver only detects and identifies one of the received colliding signals at any given time. The receiving and identifying are performed during each of a plurality of cycles. A probabilistic model is used to calculate the location of the receiver. The model correlates a respective number of times the receiver detects and identifies one of the colliding signals and the probability of that signal being identified by the receiver, given the location of the receiver. |
| US09097778B2 |
Magnetic resonance device with diffusion gradient phase variation positionally corrected
In the diffusion spectroscopic imaging, in which intensity of molecular diffusion is imaged with separating chemical substances, with suppressing artifacts resulting from object motion of an object, spatial resolution, spectral band and SNR are maintained, and measurement accuracy is enhanced. A measurement for acquiring diffusion SI data is repeated a plurality of times with changing acquisition timing, phase variation of each measurement result is corrected, and a diffusion SI image is reconstructed from the corrected measurement results. In addition, the phase variation is calculated for every point in the space from the diffusion SI data acquired by each measurement or navigation data obtained by each measurement. The phase correction is independently performed for every point in the space. |
| US09097777B2 |
Method of magnetic resonance imaging for the selection and recording of curved slices
A method of MR imaging applies a magnetic field Bgrad1 having a spatially non-linear dependence to select a volume of at least one curved slice. The slice is described by its midsurface AM, a volume of the selected slice being made up of nν partial volumes in each of which gradients of at least one pair of remaining superimposed magnetic fields Bgradi (i>1) exhibit an angle dependence of 70° to 110° with respect to one another and with respect to the normal of the midsurface AM. At least one superimposed magnetic field of the respective pair exhibits a spatially non-linear dependence and combinations of these pairs are used for spatial encoding. In this way, curved surfaces can be mapped efficiently in high resolution and the method can be adapted to the slice shape. |
| US09097771B2 |
Voltage sensing assembly and battery module including the same
Disclosed is a voltage sensing assembly for sensing voltage of battery cells, each having electrode terminals formed at an upper or lower end thereof, in a state in which the voltage sensing assembly is mounted to a battery module, the voltage sensing assembly including (a) a block case formed of an electrically insulating material, the block case being mounted, horizontally within a space between electrode terminal connection parts of the battery cells, to the front or rear of the battery module, (b) wires connected respectively to voltage sensing terminals, each of the voltage sensing terminals being integrally formed at an upper or lower end of a corresponding one of bus bars electrically connected to the electrode terminal connection parts of the battery cells, and (c) a connector that transmits detected voltages of the wires to a controller. |
| US09097769B2 |
Simultaneous TX-RX for MRI systems and other antenna devices
Apparatus and method that are more efficient and flexible, and obtain and connect high-power RF transmit signals (TX) to RF-coil devices in an MR machine or other devices and simultaneously receive signals (RX) and separate net receive signals NRX) of interest by subtracting or filtering to remove the subtractable portion of the transmit signal (STX) from the RX and preamplifying the NRX and signal processing the preamplified NRX. In some embodiments, signal processing further removes artifacts of the transmitted signal, e.g., by digitizing the NRX signal, storing the digitized NRX signal in a memory, and performing digital signal processing. In some embodiments, the present invention also includes pre-distorting the TX signals in order to be better able to identify and/or remove the remaining artifacts of the transmitted signal from the NRX signal. This solution also applies to other high-power RF-transmit-antennae signals. |
| US09097759B2 |
Apparatus related to an inductive switching test
In one general aspect, an apparatus can include an energy storage device configured to store energy during an unclamped inductive switching test of a target device, and a switch device configured to shunt at least a portion of energy away from the target device in response to the target device changing from a breakdown state to a failure state. |
| US09097758B2 |
Connection quality verification for integrated circuit test
An integrated circuit device comprising a semiconductor die contained in a package. The integrated circuit device includes one or more internal connection verification modules for asserting a poor connection signal for the test apparatus in response to a voltage difference between a voltage at a corresponding internal power supply node and a reference voltage, the voltage difference being indicative of a poor connection of power supply to one of power supply terminals on the package. The test apparatus can include an indicator or a sorting element for rejecting or accepting the integrated circuit device in response to logic signals indicative of the presence or absence of a defect accompanied by non-assertion of the poor connection signal, and for processing the integrated circuit device distinctively in response to assertion of the poor connection signal. |
| US09097757B2 |
Switching element system and method
A 2×2 switching element that includes first and second relays each having a first terminal, a second terminal and a third terminal, wherein the first and second relays each operate between a first state to connect the first terminal to the second terminal and a second state to connect the first terminal to the third terminal. The second terminals and third terminals, respectively, of the first and second relays are coupled to one another. The 2×2 switching element is selectively operable between: a first switching state where the first relay is operated in the first state and the second relay is operated in the second state, and a second switching state where the first relay is operated in the second state and the second relay is operated in the second state. |
| US09097753B2 |
Hall sensor having serially connected hall elements
A Hall sensor is provided having a first Hall element with a first terminal contact and with a second terminal contact and with a third terminal contact, a second Hall element with a fourth terminal contact and with a fifth terminal contact and with a sixth terminal contact, a third Hall element with a seventh terminal contact and with an eighth terminal contact and with a ninth terminal contact, and a fourth Hall element with a tenth terminal contact and with an eleventh terminal contact and with a twelfth terminal contact. The first Hall element and the second Hall element and the third Hall element and the fourth Hall element are connectable in series. |
| US09097750B2 |
Dual purpose atomic device for realizing atomic frequency standard and magnetic field measurement
A dual purpose atomic device (DAD) for realizing atomic frequency standard and/or magnetic field measurement based on a hybrid technique comprising of enhanced transmission and polarization rotation by the CPT states is invented. The dual purpose atomic device for realizing atomic frequency standard and/or magnetic field measurement basically involving means for generating bi-chromatic field to facilitate the creation of CPT state in an atomic cell and stabilizing the frequency difference among the said bi-chromatic field to the center of the CPT resonance and thereby realizing atomic frequency standard and/or means for monitoring and analyzing transmitted polarization rotation signal from the CPT enabled atomic gas in a sample cell for measuring magnetic field without scanning the radiofrequency oscillator. |
| US09097746B2 |
Electronic tamper detection in a utility meter using magnetics
An arrangement for use in a utility meter includes a switch, a processing circuit, and a magnetic element. The switch is supported on a first meter structure. The switch has at least a first and second state. The switch is configured to transition from a first state to a second state responsive to a detected magnetic field of a first polarity, and to transition from a second state to a first state responsive to a detected magnetic field of a second polarity. The processing circuit is operably coupled to determine whether the switch is in the first state or the second state. The magnetic element is supported on a second meter structure configured to be physically connected to the first meter structure, the magnetic element positioned such that removal of the second meter structure from the first meter structure causes the magnetic element to expose the switch to a magnetic field of the first polarity. |
| US09097736B2 |
Micromechanical component and method for manufacturing a micromechanical component
A micromechanical component includes: a substrate; a seismic weight joined to the substrate at a first suspension mount; at least one first electrode for measuring a motion of the seismic weight in a first direction, the first electrode being joined to the substrate at a second suspension mount; and at least one second electrode for measuring a motion of the seismic weight in a second direction different from the first direction, the second electrode being joined to the substrate at a third suspension mount. The first electrode is mechanically connected to the second suspension mount with the aid of a support arm and set apart from the second suspension mount. |
| US09097735B2 |
Probe for measuring the total pressure of an airflow and method of using the probe
A probe for measuring the total pressure of an airflow is intended to equip an aircraft and a method of using the probe. The probe comprises a Pitot tube, two separate heating wires supplied separately and allowing each one to heat an external part of the probe, and means of distribution of a given maximum power to each of the two heating wires as a function of the current temperature of each of the two parts. A method consists in giving priority to the reaching of a predefined minimum temperature of a first of the two parts of the probe by allocating to the first part of the probe a predefined share of the given maximum power for as long as the temperature of the first part is below a predefined minimum temperature. |
| US09097734B2 |
Ceramic heating device
Ceramic heating devices with a three-dimensional ceramic element are disclosed for protecting surfaces from icing. The shape of the three-dimensional ceramic element can be configured to physically match to the three-dimensional profile of the protected surface, allowing for high thermal coupling with the surface. The shape of the three-dimensional ceramic element can also be configured to form an aerodynamic surface typically found on the exterior of aircraft. |
| US09097733B2 |
Speed sensor system and mounting configuration for locomotive traction motors
A speed sensor system for a locomotive traction motor of the type having a motor frame head adjacent each wheel truck, including a mounting bracket, attachable to the frame head at a prescribed distance from an axis of rotation of the motor and a sensor support portion extending from the inner surface through the ventilation opening and having a hollow tubular portion at the end for releasably receiving and positioning a separate sensor assembly in such a manner that the sensor itself is precisely positioned with respect to the armature gear surface of the traction motor. |
| US09097732B2 |
Mass spectrometric determination of eicosapentaenoic acid and docosahexaenoic acid
The invention relates to the detection of DHA and EPA. In a particular aspect, the invention relates to methods for detecting DHA and EPA by mass spectrometry and kits for carrying out such methods. |
| US09097731B2 |
Method and kit for the detection of heparin-dependent antibodies and the diagnosis of immune or autoimmune pathologies potentiated by heparin, such as heparin-induced thrombocytopenia
A method for the detection of heparin-dependent antibodies and the diagnosis of immune or autoimmune pathologies potentiated by a heparin substance, such as thrombocytopenia induced by heparin (HIT type II) as inducer drug. The method includes the steps of reacting at least one substance with high affinity for a heparin substance (SFA), with at least one heparin substance (SH) so as to form a substance with high affinity for heparin-heparin substance (SFA-SH) complex. The heparin substance is adapted to bind other substances with affinity for heparin and with at least one potential antigenic substance capable of reacting with the heparin substance, forming a (Ag-SH) complex. The method further includes the steps of testing a patient's plasma or serum potentially containing an anti(Ag-SH) antibody after administration of the heparin substance and revealing the resulting (Ag-SH)-anti(Ag-SH) complex produced. |
| US09097730B2 |
Fluorescein lactone ion indicators and their applications
Fluorescent dyes useful for preparing fluorescent metal ion indicators, the fluorescent indicators themselves, and the use of the fluorescent indicators for the detection, discrimination and quantification of metal cations. |
| US09097729B2 |
Methods of selecting epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFr) binding agents
The present application relates to methods of selecting EGFr binding agents. In certain embodiments, such EGFr binding agents bind to at least a portion of a panitumumab epitope on an EGFr. In certain embodiments, such EGFr binding agents do not bind to a panitumumab epitope on an EGFr. |
| US09097728B2 |
Method for diagnosing a hemoglobin-related disorder
A method for diagnosing and/or staging a hemoglobin disorder such as β-thalassemia involves contacting a blood sample of a subject with an Alpha-Hemoglobin Stabilizing Protein which may be present on a solid support, and detecting and/or quantifying free α-Hb. Detection or quantification can be achieved by photometry such as HTRF or immunological procedures such as EIA and ELISA. The free α-Hb is compared to a reference value, and can be used to correlate with the diagnosis and/or staging of the hemoglobin disorder for the subject. |
| US09097724B2 |
Systems and methods for sequencing peptides by mass spectrometry
The number of atoms present in an ion of a molecule is identified using a mixture of different forms of the molecule. A mass spectrometer analyzes a mixture of at least two forms of the molecule using one or more ion scans producing a mass spectrum. The first form of the molecule includes a first combination of isotopes of one or more elements. The second form of the molecule includes a second combination of isotopes of the one or more elements. A first peak and a second peak that differ in mass by a multiple of a mass difference between the first combination of isotopes and the second combination of isotopes are located in the mass spectrum. The number of atoms of the one or more elements present in an ion of the molecule is identified from a mass difference between the first peak and the second peak. |
| US09097722B2 |
PARP substrates and biomarkers
PARylated proteins are enriched by treating cell lysates comprising PARylated proteins and DNA/RNA with an endonuclease that cleaves the DNA/RNA but not the PAR; and separating the PARylated proteins from the cleaved DNA/RNA. PARylation sites are labeled by eluting PARylated proteins from a PAR-affinity substrate with a nucleophilic amine exchange reactant, wherein the reactant labels PARylation sites of the proteins. Specific binding agents are identified by screening compounds for specific binding to a PARylated protein disclosed herein; and identifying one of the compounds as a specific binder of the protein. Antibodies which specifically bind PARylation sites are also disclosed. |
| US09097718B2 |
Method and device for detecting nucleic acid, and kit
The present invention provides a method for detecting a nucleic acid, by which a multi-stranded nucleic acid amplified by a nucleic acid amplification method is detected easily and with a high degree of accuracy without the need for specialized equipment, and also provides a nucleic acid detection device. Provided are a method for detecting a nucleic acid under visible light via a color reaction produced by contact between a chromogenic leuco dye and the multi-stranded nucleic acid, as well as a nucleic acid detection device using this method. |
| US09097716B2 |
Assay for anti-TR antibodies
The present invention relates to a method for determining the presence of anti-Tr antibodies in a subject comprising the steps of obtaining a sample from said subject testing the presence of said antibodies in said sample by addition of DNER protein or an antigenic part thereof and checking whether said DNER protein is bound by any antibodies in said sample Such an assay is useful for the diagnosis of paraneoplastic cerebellar degeneration that is associated with Hodgkin lymphoma, or, more generally, to type patients suffering from cerebellar ataxia. Also comprised in the invention is a kit for performing such an assay. |
| US09097713B2 |
Monoclonal antibodies against glycoprotein of Ebola sudan boniface virus
We disclose Ebola Sudan Boniface virus GP Monoclonal antibodies, epitopes recognized by these monoclonal antibodies, and the sequences of the variable regions of some of these antibodies. Also provided are mixtures of antibodies of the present invention, as well as methods of using individual antibodies or mixtures thereof for the detection, prevention, and/or therapeutic treatment of Ebola Sudan Boniface virus infections in vitro and in vivo. |
| US09097710B2 |
Multiplexed volumetric bar chart chip for point of care biomarker and analyte quantitation
Apparatus for determining the quantity of a target protein, biomarker or analyte present in a sample, comprising a top plate and a bottom plate, each comprising a plurality of recesses arranged to form a plurality of rows extending parallel to one another, and a plurality of channels extending perpendicularly to the plurality of rows of the bottom plate; wherein the top plate and the bottom plate are assembled together so that the top plate is on top of the bottom plate and the recesses of the top plate communicate with the recesses of the bottom plate so as to form a plurality of rows; and wherein at least one of the top and bottom plate is configured to slide relative to the other of the top and bottom plate in order to form a plurality of columns, with each of the columns in communication with each of the channels. |
| US09097709B2 |
Method and device for producing metal-containing organic compounds
The invention relates to a method and to a device for producing conjugates comprising or consisting of a metallic nanoparticulate component and an organic component. Said method enables activated or reactive nanoparticles containing metal to be produced by irradiating a metal body with a laser beam and prevents the modification and damage of organic components of said conjugates by laser irradiation. Said nanoparticulate metallic component comprises plasmon resonant metal. According to the invention, the claimed method of production enables particles having a metal centre and a metal-oxide covering to be produced, in particular when using a carrier fluid containing oxygen, e.g. alcohol or water. |
| US09097708B2 |
High-throughput methodology for identifying RNA-protein interactions transcriptome-wide
Methods of identifying RNA-protein interaction sites are provided. Systems for identifying RNA-protein interaction sites are provided. Systems for identifying secondary structures are provided. Methods of identifying secondary structures are provided. Methods of identifying RNA-binding proteins are provided. |
| US09097707B2 |
Photoreactive regulator of protein function and methods of use thereof
The present invention provides a synthetic regulator of protein function, which regulator is a light-sensitive regulator. The present invention further provides a light-regulated polypeptide that includes a subject synthetic regulator. Also provided are cells and membranes comprising a subject light-regulated polypeptide. The present invention further provides methods of modulating protein function, involving use of light. The present invention further provides methods of identifying agents that modulate protein function. |
| US09097706B2 |
Insect-based ex vivo model for testing blood-brain barrier penetration and method for exposing insect brain to chemical compounds
There is provided an ex-vivo insect screening model to accurately determine blood-brain barrier penetration of different chemical compounds in order to improve the compound screening procedures/processes in the early drug discovery process. This object offers many advantages relative to prior technologies since insect models are more reliable tools for the decision-making process than the existing in vitro models, and will speed up the drug screening process and reduce the late phase attrition rate. Moreover, it will reduce the number of mammals sacrificed during the drug discovery phase. |
| US09097701B2 |
Apparatus for hemolyzing a blood sample and for measuring at least one parameter thereof
An apparatus for hemolyzing a blood sample and for measuring at least one parameter thereof comprises a sample chamber for accommodation of the blood sample, the sample chamber having a first sidewall and an opposite second sidewall. The apparatus also comprises ultrasonic generator for generating ultrasonic waves in the first and second sidewalls so as to cause the blood sample provided between the first and second sidewall to be hemolyzed. Further, the apparatus comprises an optical measuring device for measuring the at least one parameter in the hemolyzed blood sample when the hemolyzed blood sample is provided between the first and second sidewalls. The ultrasonic generator of the apparatus comprises a first ultrasonic generator for generating ultrasonic waves in the first sidewall and a second ultrasonic generator for generating ultrasonic waves in the second sidewall. |
| US09097700B2 |
Glucose measurement system with high-capacity cartridge and capability of more frequent replenishment
The present disclosure relates to packaging containers for holding a plurality of test sensors. The packaging container may include a first semi-circular housing and a second semi-circular housing. The first semi-circular housing has a plurality of first test sensor containing regions. Each of the plurality of the first test sensor containing regions is adapted to contain at least one test sensor having a top portion covered by a foil cover. The second semi-circular housing has a plurality of second test sensor containing regions. Each of the plurality of the second test sensor containing regions is adapted to contain at least one test sensor. The second semi-circular housing has a top portion. The first semi-circular housing and the second semi-circular housing are positioned adjacent to each other. |
| US09097699B2 |
Sensor storage and delivery system where the test sensors are individually foiled and arranged in a stack
A portable, hand-held glucose testing device includes a housing configured to accommodate a plurality of test sensors in a stacked arrangement and having a wall with an opening defined therein. A plurality of packaged test sensors is stacked in alignment with one another within the housing. Each of the test sensors is packaged within a blister package. The blister package includes a blister package housing and a cover foil overlying a surface of the blister package housing and the test sensor. A drive slide is configured to displace one of the plurality of packaged test sensors out of alignment with other packaged test sensors. A knife mechanism is configured to pierce through the cover foil, and to engage and urge the test sensor to extend through the opening for receiving a sample. A meter contact is configured to engage the test sensor when the test sensor extends through the opening. |
| US09097697B2 |
Method for simulating deformation of rubber compound
A method for simulating deformation of rubber compound including silica particles and an interfacial coupling agent therefor is disclosed. Using a scanning transmission electron microscope (STEM), data of STEM images of the rubber compound are acquired. Based on the STEM image data, a dataset of a 3D structure of the rubber compound is reconstructed. Based on the dataset, a model of the rubber compound is generated. Using the model on which conditions are defined, a deformation calculation is made and a physical quantity is acquired. The rubber compound model comprises a rubber component model, silica particle models and interface models surrounding the silica particle models and defined as being harder than the rubber component model. |
| US09097694B2 |
Detection method using colorimetric analysis
A detection method using colorimetric analysis of the present invention includes: providing a first solution in which two materials selected from metal nanoparticles, an oxidizing agent, and chloride ions are mixed; providing a second solution including one other material that is not included in the first solution among the metal nanoparticles, the oxidizing agent, and the chloride ions; preparing a mixture solution by mixing the first solution and the second solution; and testing and measuring a color change of the mixture solution. |
| US09097687B2 |
Sensor calibration
A sensor kit comprising a sensor for detecting an analyte, a sensor housing and a calibration chamber. The calibration chamber comprises a first compartment containing a first calibration solution and a second compartment containing a source of the analyte to be detected. A dividing material is located between the first and second compartments enabling them to be mixed on breakage or removal of the dividing material. Further compartment(s) containing further source(s) of the analyte may optionally be provided. Calibration can carried out by (a) taking a reading of the analyte concentration of the first calibration solution, (b) mixing the contents of the first and second compartments by breaking or removing the dividing material, and (c) taking a reading of the analyte concentration of the resulting mixture. Steps (b) and (c) can be repeated for further compartment(s) to provide further reading(s) if desired. |
| US09097686B2 |
Optical type inspection apparatus, inspection system and the wafer for coordinates management
This optical inspection device has: a line sensor on which channels are arranged; a moving means for moving a wafer mounted on a stage relative to the line sensor; a stage position detection means for detecting the on-stage positions of pseudo-defects in images formed on the channels as pseudo-defect stage coordinates, said coordinate management wafer being a wafer on which one pseudo-defect die is formed per row and column of a matrix of dies and each pseudo-defect die has a plurality of pseudo-defects formed in a line in the columnar direction; a coordinate transformation means for transforming the pseudo-defect stage coordinates into pseudo-defect die coordinates; a difference computation means for computing the differences of the pseudo-defect die coordinates from design coordinates; and a characteristic pattern acquisition means for obtaining a coordinate error characteristic pattern in which the differences from the pseudo-defect stage coordinates increase or decrease along a straight line. |
| US09097685B2 |
Advanced inspection method utilizing short pulses LED illumination
An illumination module that may include a LED driver; a group of light emitting diodes (LEDs) that comprises at least one LED; the group of LED is coupled to the LED driver; wherein the LED driver is arranged to activate the group of LEDs by driving a high current short duration driving signal; and wherein the group of LEDs is arranged to emit at least one light pulse in response to the high current short duration driving signal. |
| US09097684B2 |
Specimen inspection apparatus
A specimen inspection apparatus includes: a terahertz wave generation unit which generates a terahertz wave; a transportation unit which includes a transportation surface on which specimens as inspection objects are loaded and is configured so as to transport the specimens in an in-plane direction of the transportation surface; an irradiation direction changing unit which changes an irradiation direction of a terahertz wave which is emitted from the terahertz wave generation unit and is emitted to the specimens loaded on the transportation surface; and a terahertz wave detection unit which detects a terahertz wave which is emitted to the specimens loaded on the transportation surface to transmit therethrough or be reflected thereby, wherein the irradiation direction changing unit changes the irradiation direction by changing a position of the terahertz wave generation unit. |
| US09097683B2 |
Laser with high quality, stable output beam, and long life high conversion efficiency non-linear crystal
An optical system for detecting contaminants and defects on a test surface includes an improved laser system for generating a laser beam and optics directing the laser beam along a path onto the test surface, and producing an illuminated spot thereon. A detector and ellipsoidal mirrored surface are also provided with an axis of symmetry about a line perpendicular to the test surface. In one embodiment, an optical system for detecting anomalies of a sample includes the improved laser system for generating first and second beams, first optics for directing the first beam of radiation onto a first spot on the sample, second optics for directing the second beam onto a second spot on the sample, with the first and second paths at different angles of incidence to the sample surface. In another embodiment, a surface inspection apparatus includes an illumination system configured to focus beams at non-normal incidence angles. |
| US09097674B2 |
Method for detecting a resonant nonlinear optical signal and device for implementing said method
A method and a device for detecting a resonant non-linear optical signal induced in a sample including a resonant medium and a non-resonant medium forming an interface is disclosed. The device includes an excitation light beam that intercepts the sample along an optical axis. The device further includes a first optical detection module for detecting a nonlinear optical signal resulting from the interaction of the beam with the sample, and a mirror that reflects the excitation beam. The device further includes a second optical detection module for detecting a nonlinear optical signal resulting from the interaction of the reflected excitation beam with the sample, and a processing module for processing the optical signals, detected by the first and second detection modules. Processing the optical signals includes calculating a difference in the detected signals, the difference being characteristic of a vibrational or electronic resonance of the resonant medium. |
| US09097671B2 |
Assays
A method for assaying a sample for each of multiple analytes is described. The method includes contacting an array of spaced-apart test zones with a liquid sample (e.g., whole blood). The test zones are disposed within a channel of a microfluidic device. The channel is defined by at least one flexible wall and a second wall which may or may not be flexible. Each test zone comprising a probe compound specific for a respective target analyte. The microfluidic device is compressed to reduce the thickness of the channel, which is the distance between the inner surfaces of the walls within the channel. The presence of each analyte is determined by optically detecting an interaction at each of multiple test zones for which the distance between the inner surfaces at the corresponding location is reduced. The interaction at each test zone is indicative of the presence in the sample of a target analyte. |
| US09097668B2 |
Menthol detection on tobacco
A method for detecting mentholated tobacco, comprising irradiating tobacco containing menthol and a fluorescent taggant with radiation and observing the tobacco for fluorescence from the taggant. A system and method for detecting and separating mentholated tobacco from non-mentholated tobacco within a product stream is also provided. |
| US09097667B2 |
Fluorescent compounds
The present invention relates to fluorescent dyes. The present invention provides a wide range of fluorescent dyes and kits containing the same, which are applicable for labeling a variety of biomolecules, cells and microorganisms. In one aspect, the invention provides a compound having a maximal fluorescence excitation wavelength, wherein the compound has a structure of Formula II: F—Y=Ψ Formula II and wherein Z— is a counterion, Y is a bridge unit permitting electron delocalization between F and Ψ, and F is a moiety having the structure: The present invention also provides various methods of using the fluorescent dyes for research and development, forensic identification, environmental studies, diagnosis, prognosis, and/or treatment of disease conditions. |
| US09097663B2 |
Gel electrophoresis, imaging, and analysis methods, devices, systems, and materials
The present teachings provide methods, devices, systems, and materials for performing electrophoresis in an automated fashion. The electrophoresis system may simultaneously image gel during an electrophoresis run. In some embodiments, the electrophoresis system may analyze an imaged gel during or after electrophoresis. The device may comprise a gel processing system, a gel illumination system, an image capture system, and an image analysis all housed within a housing. |
| US09097662B2 |
Droplet-based particle sorting
The present invention relates to droplet-based particle sorting. According to one embodiment, a droplet microactuator is provided and includes: (a) a suspension of particles; and (b) electrodes arranged for conducting droplet operations using droplets comprising particles. A method of transporting a particle is also provided, wherein the method includes providing a droplet comprising the particle and transporting the droplet on a droplet microactuator. |
| US09097661B2 |
Electrochemical sulfur sensor and the method of making the same
This disclosure relates to sulfur sensors that utilize sensing materials that can be used to detect a wide range of concentrations including ultra low concentrations of sulfur in liquids, such as below even 15 ppm. The sulfur sensors comprise a sensing electrode having a material that contributes an electronic output to the analysis and a material that contributes an ionic output to the analysis. |
| US09097660B2 |
Analyte sensors and methods of use
Analyte sensors for determining the concentration of an analyte in a sample. The sensors have a sample chamber having an inlet with a projection extending from an edge of the sensor for facilitating flow of sample into the sample chamber. |
| US09097658B2 |
Carbon based biosensors and processes of manufacturing the same
Sensors, processes for manufacturing the sensors, and processes of detecting a target molecule with the sensor generally includes a substrate including a channel and first and second electrodes electrically connected to the channel, wherein the channel includes a monolayer of surface functionalized graphene or surface functionalized carbon nanotubes, wherein the surface functionalized graphene or surface functionalized carbon nanotubes include an imidazolidone compound. |
| US09097655B2 |
Programmable gain amplifier with multi-range operation for use in body sensor interface applications
A system for analyte measurement includes a programmable gain amplifier including a first input terminal operatively coupling to the output of a sensor for sensing an analyte, a second input terminal operatively coupling to a voltage source, and an output terminal for providing an output based on a difference between inputs on the first input terminal and the second input terminal A controller is operatively coupled to the programmable gain amplifier for configuring the operation range of the programmable gain amplifier and/or selecting the output of the programmable gain amplifier for analyte measurement. The method includes monitoring an output from a programmable gain amplifier operatively coupling to a sensor for sensing an analyte, and controlling the operation range of the programmable gain amplifier, and/or selecting the output of the programmable gain amplifier for analyte measurement. |
| US09097644B2 |
Magnetic resonance-based viscometers and methods
This invention relates generally to magnetic resonance (MR)-based methods and kits for measuring the viscosity of liquid samples. |
| US09097643B2 |
Imaging control apparatus, radiographic imaging system, and imaging control method
A radiographic imaging apparatus includes: a radiation detection array configured to store charges to acquire an image signal; an output unit configured to output radiation image data based on the image signal to an external apparatus; a detection unit configured to detect an imaging mode changeover instruction; and a control unit configured to, when the detection unit detects an imaging mode changeover instruction during one unit of imaging processing including the charge storage and the charge-based radiation image data output to an external apparatus, control whether the imaging processing is to be interrupted, based on an operating state of the radiographic imaging apparatus. |
| US09097640B2 |
Method, system, and compositions for cell counting and analysis
The present invention provides a low cost imaged-based system for detecting, measuring and/or counting labeled features of biological samples, particularly blood specimens. In one aspect, the invention includes a system for imaging multiple features of a specimen that includes one or more light sources capable of successively generating illumination beams each having a distinct wavelength band and a plurality of differentially excitable labels capable of labeling a specimen comprising multiple features, such that each different feature is labeled with a different differentially excitable label. |
| US09097637B2 |
Integrated electronic device for monitoring parameters within a solid structure and monitoring system using such a device
An electronic device is for detecting and monitoring a local parameter within a solid structure. The electronic device may include an integrated detection module having a functional IC including an integrated sensor to detect the local parameter within the solid structure, and an antenna and having a functional circuitry surface facing towards an outside of the functional IC, and a passivation layer to cover at least the functional circuitry surface of the functional IC so that the functional IC is hermetically sealed and galvanically insulated from a surrounding environment. The electronic device may also include an RF circuit to be coupled with the integrated detection module and having a remote antenna configured to transmit/receive signals for telecommunications and energy exchange with the antenna. The antenna, the RF circuit, and the remote antenna may wirelessly communicate via an electromagnetic coupling. |
| US09097631B2 |
Apparatus and method for processing biological material
The application discloses an apparatus and method for processing biological material, including a suspension of cells. |
| US09097629B2 |
Tissue cassette with retractable member
An apparatus for holding a tissue sample having a retaining member with a first tissue engaging surface and at least one biasing element. The first tissue engaging surface is moveably attached to the retaining member. The apparatus also has a base comprising a second tissue engaging surface which is configured to engage the retaining member to form an interior area with the first and second tissue engaging surfaces facing each other. The apparatus also has a retracting member connected to the retaining member which is configured to retract the first tissue engaging surface and compress the biasing element to form a gap between the tissue sample and one of the first tissue engaging surface and the second tissue engaging surface. |
| US09097626B2 |
HIFU induced cavitation with reduced power threshold
An apparatus for irradiating a liquid sample with acoustic energy to generate cavitation in the liquid sample. The apparatus includes a source for emitting high intensity ultrasound waves and is adapted to receive a cartridge having a chamber containing the liquid sample, wherein the high intensity ultrasound waves are focused on a focus position at or near a nucleation element extending at least partially into the chamber. |
| US09097623B2 |
CVS system sample water vapor management
An exhaust sampling system includes a pre-fill gas source having a pre-fill gas. A sampling conduit is configured to collect exhaust gas and make-up gas. A sample bag is fluidly connected to the sampling conduit and the pre-fill gas source. A controller is programmed to run a test procedure in which a sample of exhaust gas and make-up gas is collected in the sample bag. The controller sends a command that fills the sample bag with pre-fill gas prior to the test procedure. The pre-fill gas remains in the sample bag during the test procedure. In one example, the amount of pre-fill gas is selected to prevent the sample from condensing in the sample bag during the test procedure. In another example, the amount of pre-fill gas is selected to provide a sufficient volume of gases for analysis during the test procedure. |
| US09097620B2 |
Deflection indication gauge
A method, and apparatus, for determining bend resistance of a sample includes applying a weight to a sample and measuring an amount of deflection of the sample caused by applying the weight. The sample is provided on a sample holder and an initial position of the sample is measured with respect to the sample holder. A weight is applied to the sample and a change in position from the initial position to a deflection position of the sample due to the weight applied to the sample is measured. An amount of deflection of the sample is determined by dividing the change in position by the basis weight. |
| US09097618B2 |
Method for preparing cell standard
The present invention relates to a method for preparing cell samples for histological examination and, more particularly, a method for preparing a cell sample as a standard, or control, for use in the fields of cytology and histology. |
| US09097614B2 |
Vehicle emissions testing and toll collection system
What is disclosed is a system and method for testing a motorized vehicle's exhaust emissions in a non-controlled emissions testing environment. In one embodiment, the present system comprises a toll collection structure having a sensor for obtaining information about a registered owner of a motor vehicle and about the motor vehicle itself, as the vehicle travels on a lane which passes through the structure. At least one emissions detector, which is fixed to the toll collection structure, performs an emissions test on the vehicle by analyzing an exhaust plume emitted by the vehicle. Speed/acceleration of the vehicle is also measured. In various embodiments hereof, the emissions detector comprises a combination of dispersive or non-dispersive infrared detector and a dispersive or non-dispersive ultraviolet detector. Emissions data collected is automatically compared to emissions standards and an authority is notified if that the vehicle does not meet those standards. Various embodiments are disclosed. |
| US09097613B2 |
Driving controller, driving control program, and measuring device
In order to possibly suppress noise components contained in a signal value of a detection signal for use in controlling a rate of rotations or speed, an driving controller receives a detection signal in accordance with a rate of rotations or speed and acquires a signal value of the detection signal every predetermined sampling time, and controls an actuator at control timings with predetermined intervals using the signal value, so that the rate of rotations or speed is controlled at each of the control timings in accordance with variation aspects of a plurality of signal values acquired before the outstanding control timing. |
| US09097608B2 |
Method for detecting high-pressure sealing performance of gas system after impact test of compressed natural gas vehicle
A method for detecting the high-pressure sealing performance of a gas system after an impact test of a compressed natural gas vehicle, including installing a high-pressure sensor with a characteristic curve on an air inlet pipe of a pressure reducer, and inflating a high-pressure pipeline with compressed gas under a safe pressure; inflating the gas system with compressed gas to a normal working pressure before the impact test of the compressed natural gas vehicle; collecting a voltage value by the high-pressure sensor within 1-3 hours, and determining that the sealing performance of the gas system of the compressed natural gas vehicle is satisfactory when a detected voltage drop value is smaller than a preset value; otherwise, determining that the sealing performance of the gas system of the compressed natural gas vehicle is unsatisfactory. |
| US09097607B2 |
Leakage tester for pipettes utilizing pressure
A portable, small-sized device is provided to accurately conduct a leakage test for a liquid volume meter such as a pipette. In operation, pipette P is connected to the device main body side via a tube. A command from a central processing unit causes a pump to perform a suctioning operation to depressurize the pipette P side to a predetermined pressure. Any pressure changes over a predetermined period of time are monitored by a pressure sensor. The central processing unit determines whether there is leakage from the pipette P, and displays a judgment result on a display unit. In particular, when a diaphragm pump is used as the pump, the pulsation of an air flow occurring in a suction operation is attenuated in a pressure vessel so as not to have harmful effects on either the inspection results or the pipette P side. |
| US09097604B2 |
Electrodynamic modal test impactor system and method
There is provided an electrodynamic modal test impactor system and method. The system has a controller device and an impactor assembly coupled to the controller device. The impactor assembly has a housing and a permanent magnet positioned within the housing. The impactor assembly further has a voice coil positioned within the housing in a magnetic gap of a magnetic yoke housing. The voice coil is driven by the controller device. The impactor assembly further has a drive shaft supported by two or more support elements. The drive shaft is attached to the voice coil and is driven by the voice coil. The impactor assembly further has a load cell attached to a free end of the drive shaft and a biasing device positioned within the magnetic yoke housing. |
| US09097600B2 |
System and method for strain and acoustic emission monitoring
A device is provided for monitoring strain and acoustic emission in an object. The device includes: a strain measurement portion operable to measure strain; an adhesive layer disposed on the strain measurement portion; and a peel-off mask disposed on the adhesive layer. In an example embodiment, the strain measurement portion includes a body, a transparent window portion, a strain measurement device and a signal processing portion. The body includes an attachment surface, wherein the adhesive layer is disposed on the attachment surface for attachment of the body to the object. The transparent window portion is arranged to enable viewing of a portion of the object through the body. The strain measurement device is disposed within the transparent window portion and is operable to generate a strain signal based on strain in the object. The signal processing portion is operable to generate a processed signal based on the strain signal. |
| US09097598B2 |
Torque sensor
A torque sensor for a human-powered object includes a spindle connecting crank arms of the object. In one embodiment, the object can be a bicycle. The torque sensor further includes at least one strain gauge mounted to the spindle in a shear pattern to measure shear strain perpendicular to a radius of the spindle. In some embodiments, the torque sensor further includes a carrier fixed to a hollow interior of the spindle, where at least one strain gauge is mounted to the spindle via the carrier. Advantageously, the torque sensor provides a low cost method to measure power. |
| US09097597B2 |
Detection device, electronic apparatus, and robot
A detection unit includes a sensor that detects the presence of force and a force component separation mechanism that separates the magnitude and the direction of the force and a control unit that controls the detection action of the force component separation mechanism based on the detection result of the sensor. |
| US09097594B2 |
Method and apparatus for confirming whether a frozen food has been defrosted
A defrost indicator including: a body member, at least a portion of which is capable of having a restrained shape or size and an unrestrained shape of size; and an indicia disposed on at least one surface of the body member, an appearance of the indicia being different in the restrained shape or size than in the unrestrained shape or size; wherein the body member is restrained into the restrained shape by freezing one or more liquids associated with the body member. |
| US09097589B2 |
Signal processing apparatus, signal processing method and computer readable medium
A signal processing apparatus includes an optical intensity detecting section that detects an intensity of light from a subject at a first wavelength and a second wavelength, where the first wavelength is different from the second wavelength, a pigment component identifying section that identifies a pigment component in the light from the subject, based on (i) a difference between a first absorptance of the subject at the first wavelength and a second absorptance of the subject at the second wavelength and (ii) a difference between the intensity at the first wavelength and the intensity at the second wavelength that are detected by the optical intensity detecting section, and an illumination light component identifying section that identifies an illumination light component in the light from the subject, based on a subject image obtained by image-capturing the subject and the pigment component identified by the pigment component identifying section. |
| US09097588B2 |
Dose responsive UV indicator
A UV radiation (UVR) response indicator comprises a first UVB and/or UVA radiation sensitive material which has been modified so as to display an altered characteristic in a delayed manner in response to UVB and/or UVA radiation exposure. The UV indicator is capable of displaying exposure to increased UV radiation over a period of time. The present invention also relates to a method of displaying a relative amount of exposure to UVR by a UV indicator over a period of time. The invention is particularly useful in detecting the level of exposure to sunlight or sunbed radiation. |
| US09097585B2 |
Spectrographic polarimeter and method of recording state of polarity
A single-shot real-time spectropolarimeter for use in astronomy and other sciences that captures and encodes some or all of the Stokes polarization parameters simultaneously using only static, robust optical components with no moving parts is described. The polarization information is encoded onto the spectrograph at each wavelength along the spatial dimension of the 2D output data array. The varying embodiments of the concept include both a two-Stokes implementation (in which any two of the three Stokes polarization parameters are measured) and a full Stokes implementation (in which all three of the Stokes polarization parameters are measured), each of which is provided in either single beam or dual beam forms. |
| US09097581B2 |
Pyroelectric infrared detecting device, and method for replacing pyroelectric element in pyroelectric infrared detecting device
While conductive adhesives 60 are provided between element electrodes of a pyroelectric element 10 and board electrodes of an installation board 20, the conductive adhesives 60 are hardened to connect between the element electrodes of the pyroelectric element 10 and the board electrodes of the installation board 20. The conductive adhesives 60 include epoxy resin and, after hardened, have 4B to 7H, both inclusive, of pencil hardness as their hardness on JIS K 5600-5-4 (ISO 15184) standard basis. If the pyroelectric element 10 is broken down, the hardened conductive adhesives 60 are impacted or are cut by using a cutter to take off the pyroelectric element 10 from the installation board 20. |
| US09097580B2 |
Multiport tunable optical filters
A tunable multiport optical filter includes various types of arrays of optical ports. The tunable filter also includes a light dispersion element (e.g., a grating) and a reflective beam steering element (e.g., a tilting mirror). An optical signal exits an optical (input) port, is dispersed by the light dispersion element, reflects off the reflective beam steering element back to the light dispersion element, and on to another optical (output) port. The reflective beam steering element can be steered such that a wavelength portion of the dispersed optical signal can be coupled to the optical output port. For example, the input optical signal may be a wavelength division multiplexed signal carrying multiple channels on different wavelengths, and the tunable multiport optical filter directs one of the channels to the output optical port. Additionally, the tunable filter may be incorporated into a device act as a wavelength reference. |
| US09097575B2 |
Method and device for monitoring torsional vibrations of a rotary shaft of a turbine engine
A method of monitoring twisting vibration of a rotary shaft of a turbine engine includes obtaining a vibratory acceleration signal from a sensor located on a stationary component of the turbine engine. This vibratory signal is characterized by a carrier frequency. The method also includes evaluating a frequency spectrum of the vibratory signal and searching for a pair of spectral lines of amplitudes greater than at least a first threshold. The lines are distributed in the spectrum on either side of the carrier frequency of the vibratory signal, and spaced apart therefrom by a twisting frequency of the shaft. Where appropriate, the method includes issuing a warning message. |
| US09097574B2 |
Method for calibrating large fixed electronic scale
A method for calibrating large fixed electronic scale is provided. The method applies an auxiliary verification device to calibrate the large fixed electronic scale without using a weight and includes following steps of: loading and unloading every supporting point on the scale table board of the scale by at least one self-locating loading and unloading mechanism; measuring and displaying a load that each loading and unloading mechanisms applies to the scale table board by at least one high accuracy load gauge; controlling a size of the load that each loading and unloading mechanisms applies to the scale table board by a constant load control device; and comparing a precise load displayed by the high accuracy load gauge with a gauge weighing display value of the scale to obtain a calibration error of the scale. The present method greatly improves working efficiency and safety and reduces costs. |
| US09097573B2 |
On-board device for measuring the weight of an aircraft and the position of its center of gravity
An on-board device (5) for measuring the weight of an aircraft (G), the device comprising a hollow element (3) extending from a first end (11) to a second end (12) and a bar (4) extending inside said hollow element (3) from an embedded end (13) to a free end (14). The free end (14) has first and second sensors (21, 22) respectively for taking first and second distance measurements, said device (5) further including processor means (50) connected to the first sensor (21) and to the second sensor (22) to generate an alert when a sum of the first measurement plus the second measurement varies, and secondly a processor unit (60) connected to at least one of said sensors (21, 22) for determining information relating to weight. |
| US09097569B2 |
Ultrasonic transducer for use in a fluid medium
An ultrasonic transducer for use in a fluid medium includes at least one housing, e.g., a sleeve, which has at least one interior space, and at least one transducer core having at least one electroacoustic transducer element is accommodated in the interior space. The housing has a housing wall at least partially enclosing the transducer core using at least one hollow space. |
| US09097565B2 |
Method and apparatus for material flow characterization
A material characterization system and method for quantifying the characteristics of a flowing thermoplastic material is presented. The system comprises a tool comprising first and second tool halves, a plurality of flowing material characterization channels, and a feed runner. The tool is at a temperature that causes phase changes from fluid to solid in at least a portion of the characterized material and enables solidification of the material in the flowing material characterization channels. The feed runner is connectable to a single flowing material characterization channel. The tool is adjustable to disconnect the feed runner from one flowing material characterization channel and connect it to different flowing material characterization channels. A sensor quantifies the characteristics of the material under different flow conditions. The method comprises measuring the material characteristics as it flows through the flowing material characterization channel at multiple flow rates and repeating measurements for different flowing material characterization channels. |
| US09097564B2 |
Contacting module for sensor having limited installation space
A sensor which encompasses at least one sensing element for recording at least one measured quantity. The sensor also has one sensor body for holding the sensing element. The sensing element has at least one connecting lead. The sensor has a modular design and includes a contacting module, whose design is separate from that of the sensor body, for electrically contacting the sensing element. The contacting module has at least one connecting element and at least one connector contact pin, the connector contact pin being surrounded in at least one connection region by the connecting element. The connector contact pin is electrically connected to the connecting lead. |
| US09097562B2 |
Flexible strip comprising at least one optical fibre for carrying out deformation and/or temperature measurements
The invention relates to a flexible strip (1) for a civil engineering structure, that can extend longitudinally along a longitudinal axis and comprises at least one optical fiber (20) enabling a structure to be localized and measured in terms of deformation and/or temperature, where said optical fiber (20) is essentially arranged along the longitudinal axis and is surrounded by an at least partially reinforced thermoplastic polymeric matrix of continuous reinforcement fibers (30), essentially along the longitudinal axis, and where the mass quantity of continuous reinforcement fibers extending essentially along the longitudinal axis, WCF, is higher than, or equal to, ten times the mass quantity of optical fiber(s), WOF. The invention also relates to metrology devices and associated methods. |
| US09097557B2 |
Position detection device, two-dimensional position measuring apparatus, optical apparatus and position detection method
A position detection device includes a magnet and a magnetic detector. The magnet includes a first pole, a second pole, a third pole and a fourth pole. The first pole and the second pole are arranged spaced apart from each other and have a same magnetic polarity. The third pole and the fourth pole are arranged spaced apart from each other and have a magnetic polarity different from the magnetic polarity of the first pole and the second pole. The first pole faces the third pole. The second pole faces the fourth pole. The magnetic detector is configured to detect magnetism of the first pole, the second pole, the third pole, and the fourth pole. |
| US09097555B2 |
Monitoring device mesh network systems and methods
Methods, systems, devices, and software are described for data transmission to and from a monitored device via a mesh network. Monitoring devices report usage, status, location, and other pertinent data via a mesh network, and perhaps other networks as well. Novel data collection, transmission, and aggregation techniques are described. Data transfer may be bi-directional in order to manage and update device status and operation. The monitored device location may be tracked with the reported information. |
| US09097548B2 |
Content delivery system with natural language mechanism and method of operation thereof
A method of operation of a content delivery system includes: determining a context for identifying a device within a geographic region; identifying a feature of a candidate route; generating a route description based on the feature with a control unit; and generating a prompt based on the context for adding, removing, or a combination thereof the feature from the route description for delivering on the device. |
| US09097547B2 |
System and method for vehicle routing using monetary cost
A vehicle routing system and method in which routing is based in part on the monetary cost of various candidate routes. The candidate route that has a monetary cost less than a user determined cost parameter is selected as the route to be presented to the user. |
| US09097545B1 |
Electronic navigation related technology
Techniques are described for monitoring whether a user is following directions to a destination during electronic navigation to the destination provided by an electronic navigation device. When the electronic navigation device determines that the user is not following directions to the destination (e.g., the user has missed several turns suggested by the electronic navigation device), the electronic navigation device determines that the user appears to be avoiding the route (or a primary component thereof) to the destination. In response to a determination that the user appears to be avoiding the route (or a primary component thereof) to the destination, the electronic navigation device may automatically, without human intervention, perform an operation directed to using an alternative route (or alternative primary component) to the destination despite the current route remaining preferred according to current routing settings. |
| US09097542B2 |
Methods of pre-processing probe data
Methods of pre-processing probe trace data include examining a sequential dataset for a route of travel between two points, identifying at least one anomaly in the sequential dataset, identifying at least one datum of the sequential dataset occupying a sequential position adjacent to the identified at least one anomaly, and inserting at least one non-anomalous datum to occupy a sequential position of the identified at least one anomaly in the sequential dataset, the at least one non-anomalous datum being determined based on one of extrapolation, smoothing and interpolation of the at least one datum. |
| US09097541B2 |
Driving support device
A driving support device includes a maximum measurement range determination unit adapted to calculate a distance to a plurality of points on a surface of an object present at surroundings of a vehicle. A distance sensor such as a laser range finder or a stereo camera that measures a distance is used in order to estimate bias of an acceleration sensor with high accuracy upon correction of the bias by use of the distance sensor such as the stereo camera or the LRF in a GPS non-receiving section. A sensor parameter estimation unit is adapted to estimate a parameter of the acceleration sensor based on a behavior of an own vehicle obtained from a vehicle translation and rotation angle calculation means adapted to count backwards the vehicle behavior based on distance variation and also based on a measurement value of the acceleration sensor. |
| US09097539B2 |
Vehicle information processing device
An object of the present invention is to provide a vehicle information processing device which is able to specify a traveling road of a host vehicle with high reliability without including detailed map data in an in-vehicle storage unit. A driving support device according to the present invention is a vehicle information processing device which specifies a traveling road of a host vehicle, and includes means for obtaining host vehicle information including current position information of the host vehicle using a GPS; means for obtaining road information from an information transmission device which is installed in a road; means for temporarily selecting a traveling road of the host vehicle using the host vehicle information, and the road information on the surrounding roads; and means for specifying a traveling road of the host vehicle using a reliability of a temporary selection result of the means for temporarily selecting traveling road. |
| US09097537B2 |
Electronic device and method for displaying position information of set device
An electronic device and method for displaying position information of a set device are provided. The method of operating a first electronic device, which currently communicates with a second electronic device, includes receiving position tracking information from the second electronic device, analyzing the received position tracking information to determine whether an atmospheric pressure within a preset range is sensed, the preset range including an atmospheric pressure sensed by the second electronic device, and, when the atmospheric pressure in the preset range is sensed, comparing position information currently received and the received position tracking information to display position information about the second electronic device. |
| US09097535B2 |
Public transportation journey planning
A public transportation journey planning system and method provides transit graph data from which routes can be selected using a route searching technique, for vehicle schedules that are not defined in terms of actual arrival and departure times at stations but rather in terms of a repeat schedule having common repeat period (P) for successive vehicles between start and end times of the day. |
| US09097533B2 |
Method of generating geometric heading and positioning system using the same method
A method of generating a geometric heading during positioning is provided. The method includes the following steps: estimating a current declination information of a current position according to a declination database, wherein the declination database gathers a magnetic map and a plurality of declination information corresponding to a difference between a magnetic north and a geometric north at all grid positions on the magnetic map; generating a predicted heading according to an angular velocity reading of a gyroscope and a magnetic heading reading of a magnetometer; and generating the geometric heading according to the current declination information of the current position and the predicted heading. |
| US09097526B1 |
Systems and methods for a polarization matched resonator fiber optic gyroscope
Systems and methods for a polarization matched resonator fiber optic gyroscope are provided. In one embodiment an RFOG comprises: a light source; a fiber optic ring resonator; a photodetector that outputs an electrical signal that varies as a function of optical intensity; and an input light polarization servo. A light beam from the servo is launched into the resonator ring in a first direction of circulation. The input polarization servo comprises a birefringence modulator that modulates a phase shift between two components of an input polarization state of the light beam at ωm, the modulator is controlled to drive towards zero a 1st harmonic of ωm as measured in the electrical signal. The servo further comprises a tunable ½ waveplate that adjusts an amplitude of the two components of the input polarization state relative to each other. The tunable ½ waveplate is controlled to maximize a peak optical intensity as measured in the electrical signal. |
| US09097518B2 |
Method for determining roughness data and/or topography data of surfaces in material microscopy
A method for determining roughness data and/or topography data of surfaces in material microscopy, particularly from flat samples, based on a shearing polarization interferometrical sequence with a microscopic “TIC” module (“Total Interference Contrast Module”) of a microscope, wherein the method can be carried out both polychromatically and monochromatically. At least two tilted wave fronts are generated, which after reflection or transmission on a sample generate two images of said sample in the form of fringe patterns, said images being offset relative to one another and interfering with one another, from which roughness values and height topographies of the surface of the sample are determined by application of image evaluation. |
| US09097517B2 |
Tilt minimization through intensity control of light source
The power input to the light source of a microscope is varied as necessary to maintain a constant degree of detector saturation as the objective is moved toward a best-focus position. Focus is found by tracking the source's intensity necessary to maintain the detector irradiance at a constant level. The in-focus position is reached when the power input (and correspondingly the intensity of the light emitted by the source) reaches a minimum. The concept can be applied in a similar manner to minimize or eliminate tilt in a sample. |
| US09097511B2 |
Displacement detecting device with a polarization change to a twice-diffracted beam
A displacement detecting device includes: a diffraction grating having a relief shape; an irradiation optical system adapted to irradiate two beams onto the diffraction grating as p-polarized light; a reflection optical system adapted to reflect two first diffracted lights generated when the two beams is diffracted by the diffraction grating, and cause the first diffracted lights to be incident again on the diffraction grating as p-polarized light so as to generate two second diffracted lights; an interference optical system adapted to cause the two second diffracted lights to interfere with each other to obtain interference light; a light receiving section adapted to receive the interference light; and a position information detecting section adapted to detect position information of the diffraction grating based on an interference signal. The period of the relief of the diffraction grating is no more than 1.5 times the wavelength of coherent light. |
| US09097510B2 |
System for positional measurement in a coupling device
The present invention relates to a system (S) for measuring the position of a coupling member (1) that comprises a shaft part (2), a first flange (3), a second flange (4) and a first resilient bushing (5), which secures the first flange (3) to the shaft part (2), and a second resilient bushing (6), which secures the second flange (4) to the shaft part (2). Each resilient bushing (5, 6) is arranged with a resilient yield between the respective flange (3, 4) and the shaft part (2). The flanges (3, 4) are intended to be secured to a respective first shaft (7) and second shaft (8). When the coupling member (1) is placed between the first shaft (7) and the second shaft (8), it is intended to transfer a rotation movement from the first shaft (7) to the second shaft (8). The system (S) further comprises at least a first head unit (9) mounted on a first fixture (10), where the first fixture (10) is designed to be mounted between the first flange (3) and the shaft part (2) via existing mounting elements for the first resilient bushing (5). The fixture (10)comprises at least one sensor (15) arranged for position measurement between the first flange (3) and the shaft part (2). |
| US09097509B2 |
Rotation angle sensor
A rotation angle sensor outputs detection signals based on a rotation angle of a rotary shaft. The detection signals that are output from the rotation angle sensor include first to fourth detection signals that sinusoidally change with the rotation angle of the rotary shaft and that are different in phase from one another. Here, a phase difference between the first detection signal and the second detection signal and a phase difference between the third detection signal and the fourth detection signal are each set to 90°. In addition, a phase difference between the first detection signal and the third detection signal and a phase difference between the second detection signal and the fourth detection signal are each set to 45°. |
| US09097506B2 |
Three dimensional ruler assembly and methods of use
A ruler assembly comprising a ruler having a top extending along a ruler width and a ruler length. The top has an inner top surface and an outer top surface. The assembly has at least one side wall extending along the ruler length. The side wall extends from a side wall bottom edge to a side wall top edge proximal to the outer top surface. The outer top surface comprises a plurality of step surfaces, each having a step height measured from the side wall bottom edge to the side wall top edge of each of the plurality of step surfaces. In some embodiments, the inner top surface and the inner side wall surface define a ruler cavity configured to removably couple to an insert ruler. |
| US09097502B2 |
Inertially operated electrical initiation devices
An all-fire detection circuit for an electrically initiated inertial igniter munition. The all-fire detection circuit including: an input configured for receiving an input voltage over a duration responsive to an acceleration of the munition; an electrical storage device configured to receive a portion of the input voltage over the duration and to thereby accumulate a charge, an output coupled to the electrical storage device to deliver an all-fire indication when at least a portion of the charge exceeds a first predetermined voltage; and a first diode having a first anode coupled to the input and a first cathode coupled to the electrical storage device, the first diode selected to have a backward leakage draining the charge when the input voltage drops below a second predetermined voltage. |
| US09097500B1 |
Modular adjustable weight arrow tip
A modular, adjustable weight arrow tip is disclosed. The arrow tip has a body and one or more blades in various configurations. The arrow tip utilizes one more modular weights, preferably seated between the body rear end and the arrow shaft, to allow the user to be able to selectably adjust an incrementally stepped array of weights to achieve the desired flight and “front of center” for their application. The modular weights can be threaded or unthreaded, can utilize a modular weight seating collar, can have varying weights, and may be utilized with any type of archery tip. |
| US09097499B2 |
Crossbow and bolts
A crossbow and bolts are described herein. The crossbow may include a main frame defining a groove, a top limb, a bottom limb, a string and a trigger assembly. The top limb may extend in front of the main frame and be positioned above the lower limb. The string may be configured to be cocked backwards and engage with the trigger assembly. A bolt may be configured to attach to the string and be ejected from the crossbow when the trigger assembly is fired. The bolt may include a removable tip, a removable coupling, and a snap-on fletching. The crossbow may include a worm gear assembly to cock the string for firing. |
| US09097496B2 |
Lightweight projectile resistant armor system with surface enhancement
An armor system with a lightweight armored panel manufactured as a multi-material structure having a multiple of layers including a hard ballistic material layer of a Ceramic/CMC (Ceramic Matrix Composite) hybrid armor material capable of defeating ballistic threats. The monolithic ceramic layer includes a surface enhancement to the expected projectile impact face of a minimal weight yet which provides significant ballistic performance improvement. |
| US09097487B2 |
String suppressor for archery bows
The spring suppressor preferably includes a housing, a piston rod, a compression spring and an end plug. The piston includes a bumper portion, a neck portion and a tail portion. The housing includes a bumper hole, a piston bore and a cap thread. The piston bore is formed through substantially a length of the housing. The bumper hole is sized to slidably receive an outer diameter of the bumper portion. The cap thread is formed in an entrance of the piston bore to threadably receive the end plug. The piston is pre-loaded by the compression spring. The end plug is threaded into an end of the piston bore to retain the compression spring and the piston rod. A second embodiment of the string suppressor preferably includes the bumper, the piston rod, the compression spring, a housing and an end rod. |
| US09097485B2 |
Trigger assembly
A trigger assembly for activating a firing mechanism. The trigger assembly includes a trigger having a sear arm with a first sear surface, and a firing element including a body portion with a second sear surface and an engagement portion for engagement with the firing mechanism, for activating the firing mechanism. The trigger assembly also includes a captured roller positioned for engagement with the first and second sear surfaces. The trigger is pivotable between a load position, in which the captured roller is held between the first and second sear surfaces, and a release position, in which the second sear surface is disengaged from the captured roller and the firing element is released. The firing element is pivotable between a first position, in which the firing element is held by the captured roller, and a second position, in which the firing element is disengaged from the captured roller. |
| US09097484B2 |
Toy launch apparatus with safety latches
A toy launch apparatus for discharging circular projectiles of predetermined diameter and height. The apparatus includes multiple safety features to prevent inappropriate objects inserted into the apparatus from enabling the apparatus to operate. A side latch is mounted that locks a shuttle to a housing assembly unless a properly sized projectile is inserted that rotates a side latch bar rotatably mounted to the shuttle out of engagement with an abutment surface in the housing assembly. A top latch is mounted that locks the shuttle to the housing assembly unless the inserted projectile also rotates a top latch bar mounted to the shuttle out of engagement with another abutment surface in the housing assembly. |
| US09097483B2 |
Toy launcher with safety projectiles
A toy launcher and safety projectile combination, wherein the launcher only launches a safety projectile. The slingshot has a body with a first arm and a second arm that contain spring-loaded joints. A first elastomeric element extends laterally from the first arm. Likewise, a second elastomeric element extends laterally from the second arm. A safely projectile is provided. The safety projectile has a first slotted channel that is accessible through a first open end and a second slotted channel that is accessible through a second open end. The safety projectile temporarily attaches to the first elastomeric element and the second elastomeric element during launching by having the first slotted channel receive the first free end of the first elastomeric element and having the second slotted channel receive the second free end of the second elastomeric element. The safety projectile is then pulled back and released. |
| US09097482B1 |
Sound suppressor for a firearm
A sound suppressor for a firearm, such as a shotgun, may include a rear end cap, a plurality of baffle units and a front end cap that are configured to be assembled in an end-to-end arrangement. These elements may be secured to one another with one or more elongated coupling elements that extend through the end-to-end arrangement, along with one or more complementary securing elements. Such a sound suppressor may lack an outer housing. A plurality of guide rods may extend through an interior of such a sound suppressor in a manner that provides the framework for a passage for a projectile as it moves through the sound suppressor. A barrel coupling element that may be used with a sound suppressor is also disclosed, as are methods for tailoring the length of a sound suppressor and for customizing the types and arrangement of baffles used in the sound suppressor. |
| US09097480B2 |
Magazine floorplate monopod attachments for firearms
A shooting rest is disclosed herein. The shooting rest may include a magazine floor coupling configured to couple to a bottom portion of a firearm magazine. The shooting rest also may include a lower extension extending downward from the magazine floor coupling. The lower extension may include a forward portion comprising at least one point of contact for supporting or stabilizing the shooting rest. The lower extension also may include a rearward portion comprising at least two points of contact for supporting or stabilizing the shooting rest. The forward portion may include a length greater than the rearward portion. |
| US09097479B1 |
Trigger lock
A trigger lock that can be mounted to the trigger guard of a handheld firearm. The trigger lock has a cover assembly displaceably mounted to a lock housing assembly. The cover assembly is displaceable between a locked position and an unlocked position. A mount adapter is removeably mated to a housing body within the lock housing assembly. The removeable mount adapter has a mount surface shaped to correspond with the outer surface of the trigger guard, allowing the trigger lock to be used on various makes and models of firearms. The trigger lock includes a locking means which in one embodiment has a lock rotor with a camming surface to displace one or more locking members into the cover assembly. |
| US09097478B1 |
Bolt mechanisms and firearms containing the same
A firearm includes a bolt mechanism with a bolt configured to receive a firing pin assembly and a bolt head assembly. The bolt head assembly includes a pivoting bolt head and an extractor. The extractor is positioned relative to the bolt such that substantially all forces applied by the extractor to the bolt mechanism are reacted within the bolt head assembly. A biasing member or element can urge a claw portion of extractor towards a distal end of the bolt head. |
| US09097474B1 |
Semiautomatic firearm
A semiautomatic handgun includes various unique features to facilitate rapid, accurate shooting. Some examples of the handgun include a more compact recoil spring system, locating the recoil spring around the barrel while permitting rearward movement of the barrel in conjunction with the slide. Other examples include an automatic magazine release for releasing the magazine upon the discharge of the last cartridge in the magazine. Still other examples include a grooved or roughened top slide surface for facilitating slide manipulation with one hand. Further examples include auxiliary sight systems to facilitate determining the proper distance by which to lead a moving target. Other examples include a takedown tool stored within the handgun. |
| US09097471B2 |
Method of producing a heat exchanger tube
A heat exchanger tube with a tube axis and with a tube wall having a tube outside and a tube inside, axially parallel or helically encircling inner ribs, with a groove which lies in each case between adjacent inner ribs, being formed from the tube wall on the tube inside, the helix angle, measured with respect to the tube axis, of the inner ribs being smaller than or equal to 45°, the region of the inner ribs which is remote from the tube wall being deformed at regular intervals asymmetrically on one side essentially in the tube circumferential direction, the deformed material of the inner ribs forming protrusions above the groove, the protrusions extending in each case over a finite deformation zone along an inner rib, the markedness of the deformation changing continuously within the deformation zone. |
| US09097470B2 |
Internal liquid separating hood-type condensation heat exchange tube
An internal liquid separating hood-type condensation head exchange tube, comprising an external heat exchange tube and an internal liquid separating hood disposed in the cavity of the external heat exchange tube and coaxial with the external heat exchange tube. The internal liquid separating hood is a hollow tube with a plurality of micropores or gaps distributed on a wall surface. The condensate formed during the heat exchange is pumped to the internal liquid separating hood in time under the effect of surface tension of the liquid via the micropores or gaps, and then is discharged from the heat exchange tube by the internal liquid separating hood. Vapor is retained to flow in the annular region between the external heat exchange tube and the internal liquid separating hood, so the inner wall of the external heat exchange tube comes into contact with the vapor to the greatest extent. |
| US09097468B2 |
Use of a graphite heat-dissipation device including a plating metal layer
The present invention relates to a heat-dissipating device for an electronic device, comprising a graphite planar body, one or more metal layers, an insulation film and an adhesive. The heat-dissipating device is optionally attached to a heat sink. The method of using the heat-dissipating device to dissipate heat is also disclosed. |
| US09097467B2 |
Heat exchanger for traction converters
A heat exchanger including a first heat exchanger module with a first evaporator channel and a first condenser channel. The first evaporator channel and the first condenser channel are arranged in a first conduit. The first evaporator channel and the first condenser channel are fluidly connected to one another by a first upper distribution manifold and a first lower distribution manifold such that the first evaporator channel and the first condenser channel form a first loop for a working fluid. The first heat exchanger module includes a first evaporator heat transfer element and a first condenser heat transfer element. The heat exchanger includes a second heat exchanger module coupled to the first heat exchanger module by a fluid connection element for an exchange of the working fluid between the first heat exchanger module and second heat exchanger module. |
| US09097466B2 |
Heat exchanger
A heat exchanger, particularly for charge air or exhaust gas, performs heat exchange between a first fluid and a second fluid, and includes heat exchanging guides for the first and second fluids, the guides being separated from each other in a core, the core having a plurality of flow channels through which the first fluid flows, and a housing that receives the flow channels and through which the second fluid flows. The heat exchanger also includes at least one compartment lid, which is flow-connected to the flow channels, and a base that is attached to the compartment lid and that is equipped with one or more passage openings for flow channels. The compartment lid is attached to the base via one or more connections which connections are bolted connections and/or a slotted crimping. |
| US09097463B2 |
Housing for heating and use method of the same, heating jig and use method of the same, and operation method of heating device
A heating storage structure 1 includes a plurality of mounting parts 5 each including a mounting face 9 on which articles 31 to be heated are mounted, which is a part of the surface of the mounting part; and a fixing part 7 to which the plurality of mounting parts 5 are detachably fixed so that the plurality of mounting parts 5 are stacked while each of spaces S1 to S4 is left between the mounting face 9 of one of the mounting parts 5 and the mounting part 5 disposed adjacent to the one mounting part 5, and the plurality of mounting parts 5 include a mounting part 5b provided with the mounting face 9 having a thermal emissivity which is different from that of the mounting face 9 of another mounting part 5a. |
| US09097459B2 |
Production of high-pressure gaseous nitrogen
An improved process for producing elevated pressure nitrogen including providing an air separation unit with at least two columns, a low pressure (LP) column and a medium pressure (MP) column. Also including extracting a nitrogen stream from the MP column and extracting a rich liquid from the bottom of the MP column, and providing at least a portion of the rich liquid stream to a first vaporizer. Also including introducing a portion of the nitrogen stream into the first vaporizer, thereby producing a boil-off gas, and warming at least a portion of the nitrogen stream in a heat exchanger, thereby producing a product nitrogen stream. Also including warming at least a portion of the boil-off gas in the heat exchanger, thereby producing warm. intermediate stream, expanding the warm intermediate stream in an expander, thereby producing a quantity of work, and a low pressure intermediate stream, and introducing the low pressure intermediate stream into the LP column. |
| US09097447B2 |
Methods and controllers for providing a surge map for the monitoring and control of chillers
A controller for a chiller includes processing electronics configured to detect a plurality of surge events. The processing electronics create a surge map by calculating and plotting a point for each detected surge event in an at least two dimensional coordinate system. The surge map is displayed through the use of an electronic display system. The surge map describes at least three conditions of the chiller when the surge event was detected through the use of axis and non-axis representations. The processing electronics are further configured to control at least one setpoint for the chiller using the calculated surge map. |
| US09097446B2 |
Air-conditioning apparatus for vehicle
An air-conditioning apparatus for a vehicle, which includes an evaporator core and a heater core disposed on a ventilation channel overlapping each other, and thermoelectric device having a heat generating surface and a heat absorbing surface. A cooling line including a first cooling channel through which cooling water circulates around the heat absorbing surface and the evaporator core and a second cooling channel through which the cooling water circulates around the heat absorbing surface and an engine, and a heating line including a first heating channel through which the cooling water circulates around the heat generating surface and the heater core and a second heating channel through which the cooling water circulates around the engine and the heater core are also included. A controller controls concurrent circulation through the second cooling channel and the first heating channel or circulation through the second heating channel in a heating mode. |
| US09097442B2 |
Made to elements capable of collecting light
The invention relates to an element capable of collecting light, including a first substrate having a glass function and forming a cover, and a second substrate forming a support, the substrates sandwiching between two electrode-forming conductive layers at least one functional layer based on an absorber material for converting light energy into electrical energy, the second substrate provided on its lower face with a plurality of profiles oriented parallel to one of the sides of the element. |
| US09097437B2 |
Solar receiver and associated energy conversion apparatus
The disclosed invention relates to solar-thermal receiver tubes for heating high-temperature fluids such as molten salts and oils, such as those used in conjunction with trough reflectors or concentric concentrators. The disclosed invention utilizes fused silica receiver tube assemblies that provide optical absorption by way of optically-absorbing media that is imbedded within the thermal transfer fluid, preferably comprising inorganic “dyes” that comprise pulverized thin film coatings or dissolved materials that are specifically designed for maximizing optical absorption. Alternatively, the chemistry of the transfer fluid can be modified to increase optical absorption, or the optically absorbing media may comprise fine powders with density preferably similar to the thermal transfer fluid, such as fine graphite powder; or, in another preferred embodiment, absorbing means within the heat transfer fluid comprise a solid absorbing element disposed along the central axis of the receiver tube's interior. |
| US09097434B2 |
Target supply apparatus and target supply method
A target supply apparatus used in an extreme ultraviolet light apparatus that generates extreme ultraviolet light by irradiating a target with a laser beam may include a tank, a nozzle that includes a through-hole and is disposed so that the through-hole communicates with the interior of the tank, a first heater disposed along a wall of the tank, a second heater disposed along a wall of the tank in a position that is further from the nozzle than the first heater, and a control unit configured to control the first heater and the second heater so that a temperature of the first heater is greater than a temperature of the second heater. |
| US09097432B2 |
Economizer control
The present disclosure provides a method for operating an HVAC system for conditioning air of an inside space. The HVAC system has an economizer configured to control the intake of outside air into an HVAC air stream of the HVAC system. The method includes determining at least two parameters of the air of the inside space, where the at least two parameters are selected from a set of parameters from which an inside air dry bulb temperature, an inside air dew point, an inside air relative humidity, and an inside air enthalpy can be determined, either directly or indirectly. The method also includes determining at least two parameters of the outside air, where the at least two parameters being selected from a set of parameters from which an outside air dry bulb temperature, an outside air dew point, and an outside air enthalpy can be determined, either directly or indirectly. Based on one or more of the inside air dry bulb temperature, the inside air dew point, the inside air relative humidity, and the inside air enthalpy, a determination is made of whether dehumidification of the inside space is needed, and if dehumidification is not needed, the economizer is commanded to increase the intake of outside air into the HVAC air stream if the outside air dry bulb temperature is less than a dry bulb temperature reference, and if the outside air enthalpy is less than an enthalpy reference. If, alternatively, dehumidification is needed, the economizer is commanded to increase the intake of outside air into the HVAC air stream if the outside air enthalpy is less than the enthalpy reference, and if the outside air dew point is less than a dew point reference. |
| US09097431B2 |
Control system for modulating water heater
A control system is provided for a modulated heating system including a plurality of modulating water heaters, which may be modulating boilers. A deadband control scheme provides for reduced cycling of the modulating heater when total system heat demand falls between the maximum output of one heater and the sum of the maximum output of that one point and the minimum firing point of the next subsequent heater. |
| US09097427B2 |
Cooling system for gas fireplace
A power vented fireplace uses a single air inlet to pressurize a staging area from where air is distributed along a passageway between viewing panels to cool them as well as into the combustion chamber as a supply of combustion air. A partial restriction at an inlet to the passageway ensures that sufficient air is directed into the combustion chamber. The inlet to passageway may be adjustable to vary the extent of the restriction. Pressure differential switches may be used to ensure balanced operation of the fireplace. |
| US09097426B2 |
Burner and fuel lance for a gas turbine installation
A lance is presented for introducing fuel into a second burner of a combustion chamber of a gas turbine installation with sequential combustion, having a first and a second combustion chamber. The lance includes a foot and a shank which projects from it. In an installed state of the lance the foot extends perpendicularly or at an angle to a main flow direction of the burner. The shank extends centrally in the burner and generally parallel to the main flow direction. At least one projecting arm, having at least one nozzle for introducing fuel, is arranged such that it extends from the shank. A respective end of the at least one arm is oriented in the main flow direction and extends generally parallel to the main flow direction. |
| US09097424B2 |
System for supplying a fuel and working fluid mixture to a combustor
A system for supplying a working fluid to a combustor includes a combustion chamber, a liner that circumferentially surrounds at least a portion of the combustion chamber, and a flow sleeve that circumferentially surrounds at least a portion of the liner. A tube provides fluid communication for the working fluid to flow through the flow sleeve and the liner and into the combustion chamber, and the tube spirals between the flow sleeve and the liner. |
| US09097423B2 |
Portable gas torch suitable for igniting a flame in combustion equipment
A portable hand held torch for use in manually igniting a standing pilot flame, a main burner flame, or any other suitable flame. In an illustrative embodiment, the portable hand held torch may include a torch body having a torch tip such that when the torch is lit, the torch tip emits a flame. The torch tip may include a hollow tip body with a first end and a second opposing end. The hollow tip body may define an initial combustion chamber. A fuel source conduit may provide fuel to the initial combustion chamber, and a high energy capacitive discharge igniter may provide a reliable ignition spark upon demand. The high energy capacitive discharge igniter may extend into the initial combustion chamber and be held in a fixed position relative to the fuel source conduit to help ensure consistent and reliable ignition, even in severe industrial environments. |
| US09097422B2 |
Control valves for heaters and fireplace devices
A heating apparatus may include a control valve assembly. A control valve assembly can have a housing and a valve body positioned within the housing. The housing can define an inlet and first and second outlets. The control valve assembly can also include an igniter having a sensor for firing an electrode. An extension can be used to activate the sensor and to thereby activate the igniter. |
| US09097419B2 |
Premix gas burner
An air/gas premix burner, comprising: a fan for sending the air/gas mixture to a combustion head; a gas valve for regulating admission of the combustible gas; an air/gas mixer, which comprises a device for localized loss of pressure; and a combustion head. The premix burner is characterized in that the air/gas mixer comprises at least two channels for mixing the air with the gas; in addition, a channel is provided with an open/close element designed to regulate the flow rate of the mixture. |
| US09097413B2 |
LED nightlight system having an image projection feature
A light emitting diode night light system can include: a tube housing; a light emitting diode positioned at one end of the tube housing, the light emitting diode for providing a visible light beam; a lens positioned at a different end of the tube housing from the light emitting diode; and an optical component positioned within the tube housing, the optical component positioned between the light emitting diode and the lens, and the optical component arranged perpendicularly to the visible light beam and configured to create an image from the visible light beam. |
| US09097412B1 |
LED lightbulb having a heat sink with a plurality of thermal mounts each having two LED element to emit an even light distribution
An apparatus comprising a base, a heat sink, a plurality of thermal elements, and a plurality of LED elements. The base may be configured to attach to a screw in light socket. The heat sink may be connected to the base. The plurality of thermal mounts may project from the heat sink. The thermal mounts may be electrically connected to the base and thermally connected to the heat sink. The plurality of LED elements may be connected to the thermal mounts. The LED elements may form a pattern about a central axis to project light evenly from the apparatus. |
| US09097411B2 |
Multiple-mode integrated track fixture for high efficiency tubular lamps
A modular lighting system features a universal mounting method for lighting elements, such as LED lights, as well as various electrical devices, and is configurable in multiple modes of operation. In one aspect, LED strips are inserted into slots in the lower surface of the rail member. Another aspect allows operation with tube lamps, such LED tube lamps. In still another mode of operation, discrete electrical or electromechanical components may be employed, powered by electrical power available in the rail. In yet another more, an up and down, bidirectional lighting system is provided. |
| US09097409B2 |
Lens retention clip for luminaire
A luminaire heat sink housing (40) which has a lens locking clip (20) which retains the lens (30) against a gasket (50). Both the hinged locking clip (20) and the heat sink housing (40) may be extruded to any desired length and allows the lens be readily removed. The hinged locking clip (20) extends along a side of the housing (40) and lockingly slides into place to bias the lens (30) against a gasket (50) and seals the light engine within the interior of the heat sink housing. The locking clip is removable from the housing and includes a locking clip rotation head, lens retention surface and locking head to affix the lens in position against the gasket and in front of the LEDs (55). |
| US09097403B2 |
Light source device and display device
A light source device includes a circuit board having a light-emitting element mounted on a one surface; a support body positioned on the other surface side of the circuit board for supporting the circuit board; a rivet having a head portion, which is positioned on a side of the one surface of the circuit board and cannot be inserted into a first through hole provided on the circuit board and the support body, and a shaft portion having a tip side stopped and held on the support body in a penetration via the first through hole; and a reflection sheet arranged on the one surface of the circuit board for reflecting light. The light source device provides a second through hole having a diameter larger or smaller than the diameter of the head portion at the position corresponding to the head portion on the reflection sheet. |
| US09097393B2 |
LED based lamp assembly
An LED device such as a lamp or light comprises an LED for emitting light and electronics for powering the LED. An enclosure retains at least a portion of the electronics. A heat sink for dissipating heat from the LED assembly is provided where a portion of the heat sink clamps the enclosure to secure the heat sink structure to the enclosure. |
| US09097391B2 |
Lamp
A lamp achieves high output power like an HID lamp by using a light emitting element(s) as a light source. A mount board having LED mounted thereon is provided on the surface of a base member, and there are provided plural flat plate type light source units arranged around an axial line while the back surfaces thereof faces inwards, and a support member provided on the axial line. The plural light source units are supported on the support member, and a space through which air flows is provided at the back surface side of each base member. |
| US09097387B2 |
Pressurized gas containing system
A pressurized gas containing system has a cowling and mounting ring which supports a valve and regulator on a cylinder containing gas under pressure. |
| US09097386B2 |
Portable work screen with at least two supports comprising magnets and a semi rigid screen
A portable work screen apparatus including a semi-rigid screen and at least two supports, each having an attachment device, the attachment device having a magnet for, in use, releasably connecting the screen to a surface proximal to a workpiece, wherein the at least two supports are spaced apart, such that, in use, the screen is extending therebetween and is flexed to a desired configuration. |
| US09097373B2 |
Assembly for transferring fluids between a vessel and a turret structure mounted in said vessel
An assembly for transferring fluids between a vessel and a turret structure mounted in said vessel for a rotation around a substantially vertical turret axis is provided. Said turret structure comprises a swivel having at least one fluid outlet which is connected with one end of a fluid piping of which the second end is connected to the vessel. The assembly further comprises a flexible bridge member connecting a part of the turret structure with the vessel. The rotation of said part of the turret structure around the turret axis is substantially locked to the rotation of the vessel while a relative displacement between said part of the turret structure and the vessel or the structure fixed to the vessel is allowed. Said bridge member supports the fluid piping to substantially take away the loads from the fluid piping on the said swivel and its outlets. |
| US09097372B2 |
Turbulence free ring
The present subject matter relates to a turbulence free ring (TFR), for a pipe-coupler unit. The TFR includes a main portion, forming a closed loop of predetermined diameter, webbed portions extending in an axial direction from the main portion, a fitment edge, extending in a radially outward direction from the main portion, and a raised section having a substantially flat top surface. The raised section extends in a radially inward direction from the main portion. |
| US09097362B2 |
Fast switching hydraulic pilot valve with hydraulic feedback
Provided is a fast switching hydraulic pilot valve with hydraulic feedback for quickly and accurately switching between opened and closed positions of the hydraulic valve. The hydraulic valve includes a valve body, a valve bore defined by the valve body, a plurality of valve ports extending through the valve body and into the valve bore, and an actuator. Actuation of the actuator allows for movement of the spool to a first position within the valve bore, thereby providing for one of opening or closing the hydraulic valve. Exposure of the spool to a pressure at an end of the spool proximate the actuator allows for movement of the spool to a second position within the valve bore, thereby providing for the other of opening or closing the hydraulic valve. |
| US09097356B2 |
Check valve
A check valve includes a casing including a positive pressure valve seat, a positive pressure valve urged by a positive pressure valve spring and including a negative pressure valve seat, and a negative pressure valve assembled to the positive pressure valve and urged by a negative pressure valve spring, where the positive pressure valve includes an inner cylinder, an outer cylinder that is connected with an outer circumference of the inner cylinder via ribs, and passages formed between the inner cylinder and the outer cylinder, where the positive pressure valve spring is disposed the casing and the outer cylinder, and where the negative pressure valve spring is disposed in the inner cylinder. |
| US09097355B2 |
Valve for integrating into a sanitary appliance
A valve (9) for integrating into a sanitary appliance e.g. a urinal (1), including two lug-type elements (21) that are arranged parallel to each other on the lower end of a funnel-shaped inflow section (17). The elements (21) are interconnected on the ends of the lower edge (23). Slits (33) can also be made in the elements (21), enabling the escape of liquid when there is a large amount of throughflow. |
| US09097354B2 |
Combined changeover and control valve
A slim profile rotary control valve capable of independently modulating fluids into a single heat exchanger from two different and distinct systems that utilize the same type of heat transfer fluid. The valve is capable of monitoring both the supply and return fluid temperatures as well as the mass flow to enable the valve controller to optimize system's energy efficiency. It eliminates the use of multiple valves currently used in a conventional changeover system and automated control of valve positioning works much superior to existing valves. The housing and inner cylinder have tapered profiles to enable rotary sealing between the inlet and outlet ports. The housing has flow characterization profiles machined into the outlet ports thus eliminating the need for characterization disks. The rotary valve has a geometry that allows for a no flow dead zone when no heat exchange is so demanded. |
| US09097353B2 |
Ventilation device
A ventilation device has a frame (12) made of a first material component, and a non-return flap element (14) made of a second material component, wherein the first material component is harder than the second material component. The non-return flap element (14) includes a movable non-return flap (18), which is arranged such that it exclusively rests against the non-return flap element (14) or the ventilation device (10) is mountable on a vehicle component (28), wherein that part of the ventilation device (10) which engages the vehicle component (28) is part of the non-return flap element (14). |
| US09097349B2 |
Seal device with compensation capacity for a plurality of movement directions
A seal device is provided for sealing intermediate spaces formed between bodies arranged to be relatively movable, wherein the seal device has a resilient, gas-tight main body which is extendable in a peripheral direction and through which a portion of the first of the two bodies is guided, and a first end portion, which fastenable to the second body, and a second end portion, which is settable against the first movable body, wherein the second end portion is movable with respect to the first end portion in a first transverse direction which extends at an angle different from 0° with respect to a longitudinal direction. A sliding seal device, which is applicable to the first movable body so that a relative rotation is made possible between the first body and the second body by a pre-set angle, is arranged on the second end portion of the seal device. |
| US09097348B2 |
Seal
A device to provide a seal between a housing for a moving element such as a drill chain, piston or the like and the moving element. The device comprising a storage well to retain seal material, the block having an outlet connecting with an aperture in a housing enabling seal material to flow into the space between a housing and the moving element and form a seal, the device further including an inlet port enabling seal material precursor to be added into the block, and pressurizing means to pressurize the seal material precursor and force it out of the aperture. |
| US09097347B2 |
Carbon seal assembly
A carbon seal assembly comprises an annular seal runner adapted to be sealingly mounted to a shaft to rotate therewith. An annular member is secured to a structure, the annular member having an annular body and a projection extending from the body toward the seal runner in an axial direction relative to an axis of the runner. A axial gap is defined between the member and the seal runner when secured to the shaft and structure respectively, with the projecting extending into only a portion of the gap, such that the gap defines a first width portion and a second width portion, with the member and the seal runner being made of complementary materials for magnetic attraction therebetween. An annular carbon element is mounted to the seal runner to rotate therewith and positioned in the first width portion of the gap, the carbon element having an annular wear surface abutting against the annular member, a plane of the annular wear surface being axially offset from the second width portion of the gap. |
| US09097345B2 |
Direct clutch slip control
An automatic transmission for a vehicle drivetrain includes a transmission housing, an input shaft, an output shaft, and a plurality of gears within the transmission housing. The plurality of gears defines multiple mechanical gear ratios between the input shaft and the output shaft. The transmission further includes a plurality of clutches operable to selectively engage the multiple mechanical gear ratios, and a plurality of rotational speed sensors. Each rotational speed sensor is operable to measure rotational speeds relative to the transmission housing for of one of the input shaft, the output shaft, or one of the plurality of gears. The transmission further includes a transmission control system configured to receive signals representing the measured rotational speeds from the plurality of rotational speed sensors and control the plurality of clutches to change between gear ratios based at least in part on the signals representing the measured rotational speeds. |
| US09097341B2 |
Brake system having a brake capacity test mode for a machine having a hydrostatic drivetrain
A brake system and method includes a test mode for determining a capacity of the brake system provided on a machine having a hydrostatic drive. A hydrostatic drive target differential pressure range is determined to simulate a test torque. A machine ground speed limit, hydrostatic drive actual differential pressure, and actual ground speed of the machine are determined. An output pressure of the hydrostatic pump is modulated to drive the hydrostatic drive actual differential pressure toward the hydrostatic drive target differential pressure range. A first test fault condition is determined when the actual ground speed exceeds the machine ground speed limit. A second test fault condition is determined when the hydrostatic drive actual differential pressure is outside the hydrostatic drive target differential pressure range. |
| US09097339B2 |
Shift fork assembly
A shift fork assembly (120, 120a, 120b, 120c, 120d) including a shift rail member (122, 122a, 122c, 122d) having a slot (188) defined therein and a shift rail axis (24), and a fork member (126, 126b, 126c, 126d) mounted in the slot and carried by the shift rail member. The fork member and shift rail member have movement relative to each other. The fork member has pivoting motion relative to the shift rail member about a pivot axis (206) that extends substantially perpendicularly relative to the shift rail axis, and the pivot axis is adapted to extend substantially between the shift rail axis and a gear axis (48). Also a method for assembling a shift fork assembly (120, 120a, 120b, 120c, 120d) including the steps of: introducing a finger (128, 129) of a fork member (126, 126b, 126c, 126d) into a slot (188) in a shift rail member (122, 122a, 122c, 122d); interfitting the fork and shift rail members by disposing a received portion (212) of one into a receiving portion (174) of the other and capturing the received portion in the receiving portion; positioning a stop member (214, 250, 300) relative to a first one of the shift rail and fork members; establishing a supporting contact site between the shift rail and fork members with the stop member; and capturing the second one of the shift rail and fork members between limits of motion relative to the first one of the shift rail and fork members. |
| US09097338B2 |
Electro-hydraulic failure recovery control for dual clutch transmission
A control for a multi-speed automatic vehicle transmission includes electrical and hydraulic components, such as pressure control valve systems in fluid communication with shift valves and electrohydraulic actuators. The control includes electrohydraulic features configured to enable the transmission to respond to an electrical failure whether the transmission is in neutral, a reverse range, or one of a plurality of forward ranges. |
| US09097336B2 |
Device for controlling a hydraulic accumulator of a hydraulic system
A device is described for controlling a hydraulic accumulator of a hydraulic system, for example a vehicle transmission, having a valve device which may connect and disconnect an accumulator-side port of the device to and from a system-side port, the valve device including at least one first check valve which is situated hydraulically between the accumulator-side port and the system-side port, and which is blocking in the direction of the system-side port, the valve device also including an electrically actuated control valve which is situated between a control port of the first check valve and the accumulator-side port in such a way that the control valve may hydraulically unblock the first check valve, using the pressure prevailing at the accumulator-side port. |
| US09097335B2 |
Crankshaft isolating decoupler
An isolating decoupler comprising a hub for connection to a driving shaft, a pulley journalled to the hub, the pulley having a belt engaging surface, a spring engaged between the hub and a spring carrier, the spring radially expandable in a loading direction, a one-way clutch spring disposed radially inward of the spring engaged with the spring carrier and frictionally engagable with the pulley in a loading direction that is opposite the loading direction of the spring, the one-way clutch spring engagable with the hub whereby the frictional engagement of the one-way clutch spring with the pulley can be progressively released in an unloading direction, and an inertial member engaged with the hub through a damping member. |
| US09097329B2 |
Transmission module and transmission assembly method
There is provided transmission module (10) for a tractor which is selectively configurable between a CVT arrangement and a multi-ratio powershift transmission arrangement. The module comprises an epicyclic unit (13) in which a first gear element of the epicyclic is driven mechanically from the input shaft (11) and a second gear element of the epicyclic acts as an output of the transmission module. By simply connecting either a CVT unit (24) or a pair of clutches (80) between the input shaft and a third gear element the module (10) can be converted to the desired transmission arrangement. This delivers benefits in a factory for example whereby a large proportion of the assembly can be completed before tailoring the transmission to a customers requirements, thus reducing lead times on delivery. |
| US09097327B2 |
Actuator-link assembly for aircraft control surface
An actuator-link assembly includes an actuator having first and second opposing ends in order to drive a control surface of an aircraft and a link coupled to the actuator. The actuator has a rod portion having a tip end, located at first end of the actuator, said tip end pivotably attach to a control surface of an aircraft. The link includes a pair of linear portions, each having first and second opposing ends, wherein the linear portions are disposed alongside each other; a coupling portion connecting the first ends of linear portions, a fulcrum shaft attachment portion protruding from the coupling portion configured to pivotably attach to a fulcrum shaft for rotatably supporting the control surface; and an actuator attachment portion configured to pivotably attach to the second end of the actuator. A material constituting the linear portions and the coupling portion contains fiber reinforced plastic. |
| US09097324B2 |
Construction assembly for spatial structure with drive shaft
Construction assembly (1) for spatial structure comprising a support (10), a screw (50) and a drive shaft (60). The support (10) has a peripheral surface (30, 72) extends along a longitudinal direction (X). The support (10) comprises a first hole (12) extending through said peripheral surface (30) and a second hole (22) receiving the screw (50). The drive shaft (60) is pivotally mounted with respect to the support (10) along the cross axis (Y). The cross axis (Y) is not parallel to the longitudinal direction (X) and extends through the first hole (12) of the support (10), and rotation of the drive shaft (60) around the cross axis (Y) is mechanically linked to rotation of the screw (50) around the longitudinal axis (X). |
| US09097322B2 |
Eccentric oscillating gear device and assembling method for crankshaft in eccentric oscillating gear device
An eccentric oscillating gear device comprises a crankshaft 46 having an eccentric portion 46a, 46b, an externally toothed gear 48a, 48b having external teeth and a through-hole in which the eccentric portion 46a, 46b is inserted, an outer cylinder 12, and a carrier 14. The carrier 14 rotatably supports the crankshaft 46. The outer cylinder 12 has internal teeth 24 meshed with the external teeth of the externally toothed gear. The eccentric oscillating gear device is provided with rotational phase adjusting means 58 for setting an orientation of the crankshaft 46 about an axis thereof, on the basis of orientations of the outer cylinder 12 and the carrier 14 about an axis thereof. |
| US09097321B2 |
Planetary gear train of automatic transmission for vehicle
A vehicular planetary gear train may include: a first input shaft; a second parallel shaft; a first planetary gear set including a first element selectively connected to the first shaft, a second element selectively connected to the first shaft and/or a transmission housing, and a third output element; a second planetary gear set including a fourth element connected to the second element, a fifth element connected to the third element and directly connected to an output gear, and a sixth element selectively connected to the first shaft through two paths; four transfer gears connecting the fourth and fifth elements respectively to the second and third elements, and connecting the sixth element to the first shaft through two paths; and frictional elements selectively connecting the first, second, and sixth elements to the first shaft, and a brake selectively connecting the second element to the transmission housing. |
| US09097320B2 |
Planetary gear train of automatic transmission for vehicles
A planetary gear train of an automatic transmission may include: a first input shaft; a second parallel shaft; a compound planetary gear set on the second shaft, and including a first rotation element engageable with the first shaft through two paths respectively having an external gear, a second rotation element connected to an output gear so as to be operated as an output element, a third rotation element engageable with the first shaft through one path having an external gear and selectively fixed, and a fourth rotation element engageable with the first shaft through one path having an external gear and selectively fixed; four transfer gears forming the external gears; frictional elements including clutches selectively connecting the first, third, and fourth rotation elements to the first shaft and brakes selectively connecting the third and fourth rotation elements to a transmission housing. |
| US09097319B2 |
Automated manual transmission for vehicle
An automated manual transmission for a vehicle may include an input shaft configured to receive rotating force from a power source, an output shaft disposed parallel to the input shaft so that power is output from the output shaft, and a plurality of shift gear trains each comprising external gears respectively provided on the input shaft and the output shaft in such a way that the external gears circumscribe each other, the external gears forming a pair that embodies one of a series of shift ratios. Among the external gears that form a shift gear train in the plurality of the shift gear trains that embodies at least two adjacent shift ratios, either of two external gears that forms each of the shift gear trains may be connected to the input shaft or the output shaft by a planetary gear device. |
| US09097316B1 |
Controllable kinetic flexible member imagery system
An apparatus for moving one or multiple flexible members to produce kinetic imagery where the flexible members have two spaced endpoints and are suspended in a curve from the endpoints. A drive mechanism is provided for continuously lengthening and shortening the distance between the endpoints and/or for varying the lengths of the flexible members, and a control unit is present for operating the drive mechanism. |
| US09097314B2 |
Tensioning device for a belt drive and electric machine with such a tensioning device
A tensioning device (2) for a starter generator belt drive of an internal combustion engine and a starter generator (1) with such a tensioning device. The tensioning device is to be supported on the machine housing (3, 3′) of the starter generator by a slide bearing. |
| US09097312B2 |
Multi-clutch transmission for a motor vehicle
A multi-clutch transmission for a motor vehicle with a prime mover has a main transmission, a range section and an output shaft, the main transmission including one input shaft, a main shaft and a main countershaft, the main shaft being rotationally fixed with a range input shaft of the range section, the range section including a range main shaft that is rotationally fixed with the output shaft, a range countershaft, range gearwheels that can selectively transfer power from the range input member to the range countershaft and on to the range main shaft, and range clutches, the multi-clutch transmission including a by-passing torque path in which power can be transferred when the range section is shifted, and where the by-passing torque path includes a by-passing clutch that selectively can rotationally lock the main countershaft to the range countershaft. |
| US09097311B2 |
Geared motor
A geared motor reduces a speed of rotation of a DC motor with a gear train and outputs the rotation to the outside. The gear train includes a second gear including a cylindrical portion a third gear a first insertion portion that is inserted in the cylindrical portion the second gear. The second gear and the third gear are made of a resin material. A projecting-and-recessed portion is provided on an inner peripheral surface of the cylindrical portion of the second gear. The projecting-and-recessed portion extends continuously in a circumferential direction over the entire circumference of the inner peripheral surface of the cylindrical portion. Pressing portions are evenly arranged in the circumferential direction on an outer peripheral surface of the first insertion portion of the third gear. The pressing portions are configured enter recesses in the projecting-and-recessed portion and press wall surfaces of the recesses. |
| US09097309B2 |
Seismic isolation mechanism
A seismic isolation mechanism 1 includes a seismic isolation apparatus 6 which is installed at one end 2 in a vertical direction V on a superstructure 3 and installed at another end 4 in the vertical direction V on a floor 5 serving as a foundation or a substructure to isolate the vibration of the superstructure 3 with respect to the floor 5; an attenuation damper 10 which is connected at one end 7 in the horizontal direction H to the superstructure 3 and connected at another end 8 in the horizontal direction H to a portion 9 of the seismic isolation apparatus 6 between the one end 2 and the other end 4 thereof to attenuate the vibration of the superstructure 3 with respect to the floor 5 as it is extended and contracted in the horizontal direction H; and an attenuation damper 13 which is connected at one end 11 in the horizontal direction H to the floor 5 and connected at another end 12 in the horizontal direction H to the portion 9 of the seismic isolation apparatus 6 to attenuate the vibration of the superstructure 3 with respect to the floor 5 as it is extended and contracted in the horizontal direction H. |
| US09097300B2 |
Drum brake type electric parking brake apparatus
A drum brake type electric parking brake apparatus includes an electric actuator unit configured to pull a cable so as to expand an expanding mechanism, a pulling pipe into which the cable is loosely inserted and supported so as to move in an axial direction, a feeding nut supported so as to move in only a rotation direction and provided with a female screw which is engaged with a male screw on the pulling pipe, and a connecting unit connecting a base end of the pulling pipe and a base end of the cable so as to pull the cable in a direction away from the expanding mechanism with the pulling pipe. The base end of the cable is projected from the base end of the pulling pipe which is an end opposite to the expanding mechanism. |
| US09097298B2 |
Electromagnetically-actuated direction-sensing roller clutch
A roller clutch includes an outer race, an inner race, a first engagement member situated between the outer race and the inner race, a second engagement member situated between the outer race and the inner race, and an electromagnetic mover to be energized or de-energized. The first engagement member is configured to engage the outer race and the inner race to transmit torque between the outer race and the inner race in response to the electromagnetic mover being energized and the inner race applying negative torque to the second engagement member while the outer race applies positive torque to the second engagement member. The second engagement member is configured to engage the outer race and the inner race to transmit torque between the outer race and the inner race in response to the inner race applying positive torque to the second engagement member while the outer race applies negative torque to the second engagement member. |
| US09097295B2 |
Power generation device
A one-way clutch used in a wind turbine generator connects an input rotor with an output rotor so that the input rotor and the output rotor are rotatable together with each other when a main shaft rotates in a forward direction and rotation speed of the input rotor is higher than rotation speed of the output rotor, and disconnects the input rotor and the output rotor from each other when the rotation speed of the input rotor is lower than the rotation speed of the output rotor. Further, the wind turbine generator includes a second one-way clutch that permits transmission of force caused by the rotation of the main shaft, to the input rotor when the main shaft rotates in the forward direction, and restricts the rotation of the main shaft when the main shaft tries to rotate in a reverse direction. |
| US09097294B2 |
Control of clutch fill command based on hydraulic state of oncoming clutch
A system and method of controlling a clutch fill command based on the hydraulic state of an oncoming clutch is provided. A vehicle includes a hydraulically-actuated oncoming clutch that is configured to engage during a shift event from one operating mode of the vehicle to another. A controller is configured to generate a clutch fill command at an initial time such that completion of the clutch fill command is synchronized with an identified speed profile of the oncoming clutch. The oncoming clutch defines a real-time hydraulic state when the clutch fill command is generated. The controller is configured to generate a real-time acceptable speed margin for the oncoming clutch based at least partially on the real-time hydraulic state of the oncoming clutch. The controller is configured to cancel the clutch fill command if a real-time speed of the oncoming clutch is outside the generated real-time acceptable speed margin. |
| US09097288B1 |
Electric motor clutch/brake assembly
A clutch/brake assembly is provided which includes a coil plate non-rotatably captured between the upper housing and the lower housing and having affixed thereon a ring shaped coil, a clutch rotor rotatably secured to the shaft and having a groove configured to accommodate therein the ring shaped coil, and a clutch output assembly having a clutch/brake disc and a clutch output shaft. The clutch/brake disc and the clutch output shaft are attached to one another by a plurality of springs. The clutch/brake assembly may be mounted on a deck of a lawnmower to drive a blade. |
| US09097287B2 |
Inner race and boot sleeve
An inner race and boot sleeve combination is provided. The inner race has an inner surface with a groove formed therein. The boot sleeve has a groove in an outer surface. A ring is located in both grooves to axially secure the inner race and boot sleeve together. Devices to prevent relatively rotation between the inner race and the boot sleeve are also provided. |
| US09097286B2 |
Coupling for connecting two shaft sections, in particular of a steering shaft, in a damping manner, steering shaft, and method for producing a corresponding coupling
A coupling is provided for connecting two shaft sections in a damping manner, including a bushing arrangement having a radially inner bushing and a radially outer bushing, wherein the radially inner bushing can be coupled to a first shaft section and the radially outer bushing can be coupled to a second shaft section so as to transmit torque, wherein a damping layer is provided between the radially inner bushing and the radially outer bushing. The bushing arrangement can have a circumferentially wave-shaped contour, wherein the radially inner bushing and the radially outer bushing have shafts that mesh with each other, and wherein the damping layer is provided with axial openings, which extend reciprocally from both axial ends of the coupling into the damping layer so that damping blocks are formed at the axial ends of the coupling between the radially inner and radially outer bushings. |
| US09097280B2 |
Rolling contact member, rolling bearing, and method of producing rolling contact member
An outer ring, an inner ring and a ball that are a rolling contact member formed of sintered β sialon inexpensive and capable of reliably ensuring sufficient durability, is constituted of a sintered body containing β sialon as a main component and having a remainder formed of an impurity, and the outer ring, the inner ring and the ball have raceway/rolling contact surfaces, i.e., an outer ring raceway surface, an inner ring raceway surface and a ball rolling contact surface included in a portion having an outer ring high density layer, an inner ring high density layer and a ball high density layer higher in density than an inner portion. |
| US09097278B2 |
Bearing ring with an additional component and method for producing such a bearing ring
The invention relates to a bearing ring produced from a straight profile bar that is bent to an annular shape and where the bearing ring is joined in a flash butt welding process, and where the bearing ring further comprises an additional component enclosed within the bearing ring material. The invention further relates to a method for producing such a bearing ring from a straight profile bar. The advantage of the invention is to obtain a bearing ring with completely enclosed additional component in a simple and cost-effective way. |
| US09097277B2 |
Monopod head
A monopod head enables movement of an optical instrument relative to a longitudinal axis of a monopod in directions parallel or normal to the optical axis of the instrument and includes a robust braking system to control movement of heavy instruments. |
| US09097276B2 |
Bearing part and thermal spray method
The invention relates to a bearing part as well as to a spray method for manufacturing a layer system on a bearing part, such as, in particular, a connecting rod eye of a connecting rod for a reciprocating piston combustion engine, with a layer system containing at least tin being provided on a surface of the bearing part. In accordance with the invention, an outer, thermally sprayed, top layer of the layer system is composed only of tin with the exception of contaminants. |
| US09097274B1 |
Screws with function of screwdriver
A set of screws with function of screwdriver each comprises a circular head with a torque slot across the top thereof. The torque slot has two opposite semi-moon shaped sides, a curved bottom, and a width about the same as the height of the circular head. One of the screws acts as the fastener, and another one of the screws acts as the screwdriver by that the circular head of the screwdriver is inserted to the torque slot, and the screw body thereof is perpendicular to the fastener to form an arm for being exerted a force to the fastener. |
| US09097271B2 |
Fastener for air-bag curtain
The invention relates to a fastener and a fastening system for fixing a curtain airbag in a vehicle. The fastener is fixed to a mounting hole in a body frame or the like of the vehicle by inserting an attachment portion of the fastener into the mounting hole while a head portion securing the attachment of the airbag curtain to the fastener and the vehicle. The fastener comprises a first load bearing structure adapted to maintain its shape when the airbag curtain is activated and a second energy absorbing structure adapted to deform when the airbag curtain is activated. The advantages by such a fastener is that the energy absorbing structure of the fastener will absorb a part of the energy from the forces working on the structure comprising the attachment holes such that there is less stress and damages to the attachment site and less risk for detachment of the airbag curtain. |
| US09097270B2 |
Snap fit fastener
A snap fit fastener includes a base, a holder, and a plurality of snap fit arms. The holder extends from the base and includes a holder wall defining a fastener hole. The fastener hole is sized to receive a finger. The snap fit arms are cantilevered from the base. Each snap fit arm includes a beam and an overhang protruding from the beam in a direction away from the holder. Each overhang is configured to engage a panel to couple the snap fit fastener to the panel. |
| US09097267B2 |
Pressure intensifier system for subsea running tools
A system to pressurize barrier fluid of a submersible installation to provide a differential pressure between the ambient pressure surrounding the submersible installation and the pressure of the barrier fluid internally in the submersible installation during submersion of the system, wherein the differential pressure fits within a predetermined differential pressure range. The system comprises a pre-charge arrangement and a pressure intensifier which is adapted to start working at a start-up pressure. The pre-charge arrangement is adapted, during submerging of the system, to provide a differential pressure within the predetermined differential pressure range until the ambient pressure equals the start up pressure of the pressure intensifier, while the pressure intensifier is adapted to provide a differential pressure within the predetermined differential pressure range when the ambient pressure equals the start-up pressure of the pressure intensifier during further submersion of the system. |
| US09097264B1 |
Turbine end heatsink
A product is disclosed for use with a turbocharging system. The product may include a bearing housing configured to house a bearing and having a flange. A shaft may extend through the bearing and a turbine wheel may be connected to one end of the shaft. A turbine housing may be disposed around the turbine wheel and may include an annular wall adapted to mate with the flange of the bearing housing. A cooling plate may comprise a washer shaped body and may be disposed around, and spaced apart from, the bearing housing. The cooling plate may be connected to the turbine housing to transfer heat from the turbine housing and away from the bearing housing. |
| US09097263B2 |
Inlet design for a pump assembly
One embodiment includes an air pump assembly (10) with an impeller (12), a housing (16), and a diverter (18). The housing (16) surrounds the impeller (12) and has an inlet passage (40) with a longitudinal axis (L) arranged generally non-orthogonally with respect to an axis of rotation of the impeller (12). The diverter (18) helps reduce turbulent flow in the inlet passage (40). |
| US09097261B2 |
Axial fan with flow guide body
An axial fan (1) having a motor comprising a stator (2) and a rotor (3), wherein blades (4), which move a gaseous medium in an axially directed main flow direction (S) from an inlet side (E) to an outlet side (A) of the fan, project from the outer periphery (U3) of the rotor (3). For enhanced performance with regard to efficiency in a structurally less costly manner, a rotation-symmetric flow guiding element (5) is mounted on the outlet side (A) directly or indirectly on the stator (2) and concentrically with respect to a stator hub (2a). The flow guiding element to have an outer diameter (D5) that is greater than the outer diameter (D2) of the stator hub (2a) greater than the outer diameter (D3) of the rotor (3), and smaller than the diameter (D4) of a perimeter (U4) around the blades (4). |
| US09097260B2 |
Fan bearing retaining structure
A fan bearing retaining structure includes a base and a ring member. The base has a bearing cup projected from one side thereof, and the bearing cup internally defines an axial bore for receiving a bearing therein. The ring member is fitted around an outer side of the bearing cup and defines an opening, such that an inner side of the opening tightly contacts with the outer side of the bearing cup to apply a radially inward compression toward the axial bore. With these arrangements, a portion of the axial bore corresponding to the ring member fitted around the bearing cup has a reduced inner diameter to thereby effectively retain the bearing in the bearing cup, enabling a fan to be manufactured at reduced cost. |
| US09097257B2 |
Screw type liquid ring pump with integrated macerator
Screw type liquid ring pump (1) with an integrated grinder or macerator (2), including a pump housing (3) with an inlet (5) and an outlet (7) and an, inside the housing, rotating helical screw rotor (4), which rotor at one end, the inlet end of the pump housing is provided with the grinder (11) and at the other end, the outlet end of the pump housing is communicating with a pressure chamber (6).The screw rotor is provided on a shaft (18) connected (not shown) to a driving unit in the form of a motor, preferably an electric motor.The grinder includes a rotary cutter (12) attached to the inlet end of the helical screw (4) shaft and a stationary cutter (13) attached to a grinder housing part (15), each cutter being provided with cutting tools or knives, whereby the rotary cutter (12) is freely rotating within the stationary cutter (13) when the pump is running. Each tool of the rotary cutter (12) has a cutting edge or knife (20) provided on a curved wing (21) such that the cutter is shaped like a pump impeller contributing to the pumping of the liquid through the macerator. |
| US09097252B2 |
Scroll pump including drive shaft extending through fixed scroll
A scroll pump includes a pump housing, a drive shaft having a concentric shaft portion and an eccentric shaft portion connected to an orbiting scroll. The shaft is driven by a motor so that rotation of the shaft imparts an orbiting motion to the orbiting scroll relative to a fixed scroll for pumping fluid between a pump inlet and a pump outlet of the compressor. The fixed scroll has an opening through which the shaft extends and is connected to the orbiting scroll on an opposing side of the fixed scroll to the motor. An anti-rotation device is located in the high vacuum region for resisting rotation of the orbiting scroll and allowing said orbiting motion, and a bearing arrangement for supporting rotation of the concentric shaft portion and eccentric shaft portion is located in tile low vacuum region. |
| US09097246B2 |
Tank dampening device
A compressor assembly that has a compressed air tank having a vibration absorption member. The vibration absorption member can exert a pressure on a portion of the compressed air tank. A method of controlling sound emitted from a compressor assembly, by using a vibration absorber which applies a force against the compressed gas tank. Controlling the sound level of the compressed gas tank is accomplished by absorbing vibration from the compressed gas tank by which exerting a pressure on a portion of the compressed gas tank. |
| US09097243B2 |
Apparatus and method for gyroscopic propulsion
Three spinning ring rotors, functioning as concentric ring gyro motors, are angled at ninety degrees with respect to one another and are arranged in an orthogonal association inside a substantially spherical housing that includes a central hub with a plurality of spokes attached to the spherical housing with holes for the spokes and coils used for steering. The mass distribution for the rings is such that the rotating ring masses are maximized and the containing mass is minimized. There is minimum friction for the primary rotation of the spinning ring rotors with all other angular forces translated across the containment structures uniformly. These spinning masses remain equal, unless the influence of precisely controlled and oriented destabilizing steering coils are used to disrupt the stability of one or more rotors by placing a controllable and varying magnetic field, from weak to strong, parallel to the axis of the spinning rotors. |
| US09097240B1 |
Fluid pressure based power generation system
A novel and useful method and apparatus for generating power from pressure changes over time within a fluid. The apparatus comprises a housing (10), and a double-sided piston (12) subject to the forces brought about by the variations in pressure of the surrounding fluid and by a restoring force such as a spring (20) or other mechanism. The resulting motion of the piston is transferred to power a generator, or is used to directly perform work. The apparatus is particularly applicable to placement in the ocean or sea where the rise and fall of the tides create the variations of pressure that drive the piston within the housing. A rising tide presents a higher pressure against the face of the piston pushing it towards the back of the housing and opposing the restoring force mechanism. A falling tide presents a lower pressure against the face of the piston allowing the restoring force to move it towards the front of the housing. Energy is harvested from the movement of the piston in one or both directions either by connection to a turbine coupled to a generator or by a linkage attached to the piston that is connected to a mechanical load such as a generator, pump, etc. |
| US09097238B2 |
Lightning protection for a nacelle of a wind turbine
A lightning protecting system for a nacelle of a wind turbine is described. The lightning protecting system includes a conductor device, which includes a core conductor, an isolating material surrounding the core conductor, and a shielding structure surrounding the isolating material, an input port, which is connected to a first end of the core conductor and which is adapted to be connected to the lightning rod, and an output port, which is connected to a second end of the core conductor and which is adapted to be connected to the support structure. Further described are a nacelle for a wind turbine, a wind turbine, a method for protecting a nacelle of a wind turbine, which all take benefit from the mentioned lightning protecting system. Furthermore, it is described a use for the mentioned lightning protecting system. |
| US09097237B2 |
Tools and methods for uptower maintenance
Tools, systems, and methods for use in conjunction with maintenance, assembly, rebuilding, or other procedures which involve displacing components of an assembly are disclosed. These tools, systems, and methods may be used in conjunction with a crane or other lifting device and may be configured to assemble, disassemble, or otherwise maintain components of an uptower gearbox. |
| US09097234B2 |
Powered apparatus for fluid applications
A powered apparatus for fluid applications includes a housing dimensioned and configured for mounting in a fluid conduit. The apparatus includes a generator for generating power. The apparatus also includes a power storage device for storing the generated power. The housing, generator and storage device comprise an integrated unit. The apparatus also includes a device connected to be powered by the generated power, for example, LED or OLED lighting. In certain embodiments, the apparatus can be mounted in a fluid conduit of a water feature. In another embodiment, the apparatus includes a microprocessor for controlling at least one of power storage, wireless communication, and monitoring of a parameter associated with the fluid. In another embodiment, the apparatus includes a controller and a power storage device and does not include a generator. The apparatus may further include a docking station for charging the power storage device. |
| US09097231B2 |
Engine starting system and engine starting method
A starting system of an engine mounted in a vehicle capable of running using torque output from an electric motor includes a estimation portion that estimates engine speed and output torque of the engine when the engine is driven to realize the power requested by the driver, a comparing portion that compares a time for which the engine continues to be stopped with a first time and a second time that is longer than the first time, a first starting portion that starts the engine when estimated engine speed is greater than first speed and less than second speed, and the estimated output torque is greater than first value and less than second value, and a second starting portion that starts the engine when the time for which the engine continues to be stopped is longer than the second time. |
| US09097230B2 |
Engine start system minimizing mechanical impact or noise
An engine start system which may be employed in automotive idle stop systems. To start an engine, the system brings a pinion gear into engagement with a ring gear coupled to the engine and turns on an electric motor to rotate the ring gear through the pinion gear to crank the engine. When it is requested to start the engine during deceleration of the engine before stop thereof, the system thrusts the pinion into engagement with the ring gear and then turns on the motor to rotate the pinion gear, in other words, delays the activation of the motor until after the pinion gear has engaged the ring gear. This minimizes mechanical impact or noise arising from the engagement of the pinion gear with the ring gear and improves the reliability in engagement with the ring gear during the deceleration of the engine and durability of the system. |
| US09097229B2 |
Engine starter having clutch assembly for selective transmission of rotary power between a plate structure and a drive hub
An engine starter apparatus having a clutch assembly and a ring gear or pulley. The clutch assembly has a plate structure, a drive hub and a clutch element for selectively coupling the drive hub to the plate structure. The ring gear or pulley is coupled to the plate structure. |
| US09097219B2 |
Cold start up auxiliary system for alcohol and flex engines with air-inlet and alcohol warm up
An internal combustion vehicle cold start control system method is provided. The method includes warming alcohol and air when a door handle is actuated, while the engine is cold and starting an electric turbine connected to an intake manifold. The method also includes actuating valves allowing recirculation of the warmed air through the intake manifold and actuating spark plugs providing an initial warm-up of electrodes and engine cylinders if the temperature is less than 30° C. The starter motor is driven by 2-4 turns of a crankshaft axle so that any cold air in an air filter at the cylinders' entrance is drawn inside and is expelled by the exhaust system. A small volume of the warmed alcohol fuel is maintained in the fuel injectors. The method also includes injecting the warmed alcohol, verifying the minimum air temperature; and deactivating the system after appropriate warm-up of the engine. |
| US09097217B2 |
Propulsion systems and modules for vehicles
Propulsion systems for vehicles are provided. The propulsion system includes an engine and a module. The module includes a fuel pump, a check valve, and a relief valve. The fuel pump is configured to supply fuel flow having a pressure. The check valve is configured to receive the fuel flow from the fuel pump, and to allow passage of the fuel flow to the engine. The relief valve is coupled to the fuel pump and configured to release a portion of the pressure of the fuel flow. The relief valve is disposed upstream of the check valve. |
| US09097216B2 |
Fuel vapor purge device
A fuel vapor purge device includes a canister connected to an internal combustion engine and a fuel tank via a purge passage to adsorb and hold a part of fuel vapor, a switch valve connected to the canister and to an atmosphere, and a pump connected to the switch valve via a pump passage and to the atmosphere via an atmosphere passage. The pump is capable of depressurizing or pressurizing an interior of the fuel tank, and the switch valve switches connection of the canister between with the atmosphere and with the pump. The fuel vapor purge device further includes a seal valve provided in the pump passage to open or close the pump passage depending on a pressure in the atmosphere passage. |
| US09097210B2 |
Turbine generator assembly for thrust vector control
A system and method includes a thrust system; a generator for providing electric power to at least one electromechanical actuator of the thrust system; a turbine for driving the generator; a speed control valve for metering propellant to the turbine; and a gear assembly for connecting the turbine, the generator, and the speed control valve. |
| US09097204B2 |
Cylinder head configuration for internal combustion engine
A cylinder head (10) for an internal combustion engine, having at least two inlet valves (20) associated with the or each combustion chamber, the inlet valves (20) being supported in the cylinder head (10) with their axes spaced from one another in a first direction, at least two exhaust valves (22) with their axes of reciprocation also spaced from one another in the first direction and at least two receiving formations for operating elements (such as a spark plug (38) and fuel injector (40)), the receiving formations opening into the combustion chamber portion in a central region bounded by the heads of the valves, wherein the receiving formations are inclined to one another so as to diverge generally in the first direction as they extend away from the combustion chamber portion. |
| US09097203B2 |
Methods and systems for managing a clearance gap in a piston engine
A piston engine may include a clearance gap between a piston assembly and a cylinder. The piston may be configured to translate in a bore of the cylinder. The clearance gap between the piston assembly and the bore may be actively or passively controlled. A control system may provide one or more adjustments based on, for example, a detected temperature, pressure, flow rate, work metric, and/or other indicator. The adjustments may include, for example, adjusting a cylinder liner, adjusting a flow through a bearing element, adjusting a coolant flow, adjusting a heat pipe property, and/or other adjustments. One or more auxiliary systems may be used to provide the adjustments. |
| US09097202B2 |
Weight balanced internal combustion engine piston
A piston for an internal combustion engine includes a piston crown connected to and above a body portion of the piston. The body portion forms two pin bores and the piston crown defines an outer cylindrical wall. At least one piston ring seal groove is formed in the outer cylindrical wall and extends peripherally around the piston crown. A first oil collection groove is formed in the outer cylindrical wall below the piston ring seal groove. The first oil collection groove has a first width measured along a centerline of the piston. A second oil collection groove is formed in the outer cylindrical wall below the first oil collection groove, extends parallel to the first oil collection groove around the entire periphery of the piston, and has a width that is at least double the width of the first oil collection groove. |
| US09097200B2 |
Starter and starting method of compression self-ignition engine
When a compression self-ignition engine is automatically stopped, at the same time as fuel cut for stopping fuel injection from a fuel injection valve (15) is executed, an operating position of an intake throttle (30) is set to fully closed, and the fully-closed state is maintained at least until final TDC. Furthermore, an operation of an accessory (32) performed after the fuel cut is controlled to adjust an engine load so that an engine rotation speed (Net) when passing the final TDC falls within a specific speed range (P) determined in advance. Accordingly, a piston (5) of a Compression-Stop Cylinder (2C) is stopped with high accuracy at a target position that is set on a bottom dead center-side of an intermediate position (CAx) between top dead center and bottom dead center, and a restart time of the engine is thereby reduced. |
| US09097198B2 |
Method for calibrating an injection quantity
A method for calibrating an injection quantity of an injection system, using which fuel is to be injected into at least one combustion chamber of an internal combustion engine of a device, in which data of at least one zero point quantity calibration, which is carried out in an idling operation of the mechanical device, and data of at least one zero point quantity calibration, which is carried out in an overrun condition of the device, are combined. |
| US09097196B2 |
Stochastic pre-ignition detection systems and methods
A system for a vehicle includes a time stamping module, a period determination module, a stochastic pre-ignition (SPI) indication module, and an SPI remediation module. The time stamping module generates first and second timestamps when a crankshaft of an engine is in first and second crankshaft positions during an engine cycle, respectively. The period determination module determines a period between the first and second timestamps. The SPI indication module selectively indicates that an SPI event occurred within a cylinder of the engine based on the period. The SPI remediation module selectively adjusts at least one engine operating parameter in response to the SPI indication module indicating that the SPI event occurred within the cylinder. |
| US09097195B2 |
Vehicular diagnostic system
Apparatuses, systems and methods are implemented for characterizing one or more driver inputs. As may be relevant to one or more embodiments herein, particular aspects are directed to determining a driver input characteristic and using the determined input characteristic to assess a risk metric to the driver. In some implementations, the driver input characteristic is determined based upon a prediction of one or more of actual fuel used and torque. In some implementations, the prediction is determined in real-time and may be transmitted to a remote terminal for storage and/or analysis. The data for the prediction is obtained from a vehicle diagnostic system, and is used to determine (e.g., predict and/or infer) information as presented by other vehicle systems to the vehicle diagnostic system, without necessarily communicating directly with the respective other vehicle systems. In various implementations, the driver risk characteristic is used for assessing an insurance-based risk metric. |
| US09097181B2 |
Turbine housing of an exhaust-gas turbocharger
A turbine housing of an exhaust-gas turbocharger includes an outer housing, an inner housing, and a tubular fitting which is formfittingly connected to the inner housing and has a flange collar for attachment of a bearing case of a turbine wheel. The inner housing traverses the fitting and has an end portion which is bent radially outwards about the flange collar. A press ring is arranged upon the end portion for additional securement of the inner housing in place. |
| US09097180B2 |
Apparatus and method for reducing oil mist ingestion in a heavy duty gas turbine engine
A lubrication system for a heavy duty gas turbine includes a bearing lubrication assembly coupled to the bearing and an oil and vapor extraction assembly disposed in a cavity defined by a bell mouth hood in an air inlet duct. A high volume vacuum blower is coupled to the oil and vapor extraction assembly to provide a relative negative pressure. An oil and vapor separator is disposed downstream from the high volume vacuum blower. The lubrication system also includes a control subsystem that maintains a cavity pressure lower than an air inlet pressure. |
| US09097179B2 |
Damping assembly
Fan flutter attenuators are optimized so that they occupy the minimum area of the intake duct, and so can be accommodated more easily, without significantly compromising the area available for liners targeting community noise. In such circumstances resonators for flutter frequencies are typically associated with existing acoustic liner and take the form of chambers incorporating labyrinthine cores for absorption of acoustic frequency waves or utilize Helmholtz chambers with appropriate volumes and inlet pipe aperture configurations for tuning to desired flutter frequencies to be attenuated. |
| US09097176B2 |
Supercharger control device for internal combustion engine
A turbocharging system of an internal combustion engine includes compressor of a turbocharger disposed on an intake passage of an internal combustion engine and a turbine disposed on an exhaust passage of the internal combustion engine. A bypass passage connects an upstream side and a downstream side of the turbine in the exhaust passage together. A wastegate valve, which is disposed on the bypass passage, opens and closes the bypass passage according to turbocharging pressure of the compressor. An accumulator, which accumulates exhaust gas pressure, is connected to a downstream side of the wastegate valve in the bypass passage. A recirculation passage connects the accumulator and an upstream side of the turbine together, and a recirculation valve, which opens and closes the recirculation passage based on an output request, is deposed on the recirculation passage. |
| US09097166B2 |
Integrated fuel catalyst monitor
A method of monitoring catalyst performance may comprise applying a set of parameter readings for a given sample to a support vector machine to generate a classification output, clustering the set of parameter readings to reduce a number of support vectors, computing a total fuel mass following a deceleration fuel shut-off event and an exhaust gas oxygen sensor switch and indicating catalyst degradation based on the total fuel mass. |
| US09097165B2 |
Vehicle having system and method of diagnosing secondary air injection apparatus
A system and a method of diagnosing a secondary air injection apparatus may include an intake line supplying air to an engine, an exhaust line exhausting exhaust gas, a secondary air injection (SAI) line branching off at a branch point of the intake line and being joined to the exhaust line at a joining point of the exhaust line, a first pressure sensor mounted at the intake line to detect pressure or amount of intake air flowing through the intake line, a catalytic converter, a first oxygen sensor mounted at the exhaust line, an SAI pump mounted at the SAI line and pumping the air flowing through the intake line to the SAI line, an SAI valve mounted at the SAI line and selectively communicating the SAI line with the exhaust line, and a control portion controlling the SAI pump and the SAI valve to perform catalyst heating. |
| US09097151B2 |
Method and device for measuring the soot load in the exhaust gas systems of diesel engines
A method and device for measuring the soot load in the exhaust gas systems of diesel engines using a sensor which is mounted downstream of a particulate filter and comprises a sensor element, to measure the operability of the particulate filter. According to the method, the soot load of the sensor element is measured resistively or capacitively using electrodes. The measuring voltage of the sensor element is controlled depending on at least one actual operating parameter of the diesel engine. |
| US09097149B2 |
Aspirator for crankcase ventilation and vacuum generation
Methods and systems are provided for flowing crankcase gases through an aspirator arranged in a PCV line. The aspirator regulates PCV flow, and may also generate vacuum depending on a position of a pintle extendable across a horizontal passage of the aspirator. When regulating PCV flow and not generating vacuum, the aspirator is fully closed and crankcase gases in the horizontal passage are metered through an orifice in the pintle. When generating vacuum, the aspirator is at least partially opened and PCV flow through the horizontal passage generates vacuum at a vacuum port of the aspirator. |
| US09097148B2 |
System for improving engine crankcase ventilation via a conduit
A system for improving PCV flow of an engine is presented. The system can reduce engine oil consumption when an engine is exposed to lateral or centripetal force. In one example, the system includes a mechanically operated valve that acts to limit PCV flow in a conduit external to an engine. |
| US09097146B2 |
Feed forward control for electric variable valve operation
Periodic torque disturbances that affect cylinder valve operation are anticipated, and an appropriate reaction torque is provided by an electric motor to counteract the periodic torque disturbances to position a cylinder valve at a desired position. |
| US09097144B2 |
Valve drive arrangement for actuating gas exchange valves of an internal combustion engine
A valve drive arrangement for actuating gas exchange valves of an internal combustion engine having a camshaft, on which first and second cam carriers are arranged on first and second contact regions in a non-positive and/or positively locking manner, the first cam carrier having at least one cam for actuating a gas exchange valve and the second cam carrier having at least one cam for actuating an ancillary unit, the first contact region being configured with regard to the geometric dimensions differently in relation to the second contact region in such a way that the second cam carrier can be mounted, without being impeded by the contact regions for the first cam carrier. |
| US09097137B2 |
Integrated actuator module for gas turbine engine
An actuator module for a gas turbine engine includes a multiple of actuators mounted within a common actuator housing. |
| US09097136B2 |
Contoured honeycomb seal for turbine shroud
The present application provides a stage of a turbine engine. The stage may include a bucket, a shroud facing the bucket, and a contoured honeycomb seal on the shroud. The contoured honeycomb seal may include a first step with a first shape and a second step with a contoured shape. |
| US09097134B2 |
Air cooling design for tail-cone generator installation
A system for cooling a generator mounted in the tail-cone of an engine. The system comprises a fairing, which receives through an inlet thereof air from a bypass duct and directs the bypass air towards a cavity of the tail-cone for cooling the generator. The bypass air is then expelled through an outlet of a support strut positioned in fluid communication with the tail-cone cavity. The fairing inlet and the strut outlet are both positioned in a plane substantially perpendicular to a longitudinal plane of the engine. In this manner, circulation of the bypass air through the fairing, the tail-cone cavity, and the strut may be achieved. The bypass air directed through the fairing further enables cooling of service lines accommodated in the fairing. A lobe mixer is further used to direct the fairing and shield the latter from core exhaust. |
| US09097133B2 |
Compressor tip clearance management for a gas turbine engine
A compressor tip clearance management system includes a compressor section having a low pressure compressor and a high pressure compressor arranged downstream from the low pressure compressor. A variable stator vane is arranged upstream from the high pressure compressor. The variable stator vane is connected to an actuator, and a controller is in communication with the actuator. The controller is configured to provide a command to the actuator to move the variable stator vane in response to a high pressure compressor clearance condition. A high pressure compressor rotor speed is altered, and the high pressure compressor clearance condition is changed to a desired clearance. |
| US09097130B2 |
Seal for use between injector and combustion chamber in gas turbine
A seal assembly for use between an injector and a combustion chamber in a gas turbine. A liner at least partially defines the combustion chamber, and the liner has at least one tubular liner collar, through which an injector is inserted. In one embodiment, the liner collar has a partially convex outer diameter and a floating collar is positioned at least partially around the liner collar. The floating collar has a retention member having a first end fixed to the floating collar and a second end configured to abut the convex outer diameter of liner collar, wherein the retention member maintains the floating collar at a radial distance from the injector less than a radial distance between the liner collar and the injector. |
| US09097127B2 |
Porous layer system having a porous inner layer
A layer system with ceramic layers includes a substrate, a MCrAl(X) layer, which has an oxide layer on the substrate, a lowermost ceramic layer, an outer pyrochlore layer, and a central ceramic layer. The central ceramic layer has a higher porosity at least partially than the outer pyrochlore layer. |
| US09097122B2 |
Turbine engine monitoring system
A turbine engine system includes a turbine engine shaft, a first rotor, a second rotor and an engine monitoring system. The shaft includes a shaft bore formed by a shaft wall. The shaft bore extends along an axial centerline through the shaft between a first shaft end and a second shaft end. The first rotor is connected to the shaft at the first shaft end, and the second rotor is connected to the shaft at the second shaft end. The engine monitoring system includes a sensor connected to the second rotor, a transmitter arranged at the first shaft end, and a plurality of conduit assemblies. Each conduit assembly includes a conduit that extends axially within the shaft bore and is connected to the shaft wall. A first of the conduit assemblies also includes a wire that extends through a respective conduit and connects the sensor and the transmitter. |
| US09097120B2 |
Turbine housing assembly
An assembly includes a cast cartridge component and a curved wall where the cast cartridge includes a base plate having an opening configured for receipt of a turbine wheel, an exhaust conduit having an inlet and an outlet, a cylindrical wall, and vanes disposed between the cylindrical wall and the base plate where adjacent vanes define throats; where the curved wall includes a proximal end and a distal end, and an upper edge and a lower edge; and where joinder of the proximal end and the outlet of the exhaust conduit, joinder of the upper edge and the cylindrical wall and joinder of the lower edge and the base plate forms a volute configured to direct exhaust received via the inlet to a turbine wheel via the throats. Various other examples of devices, assemblies, systems, methods, etc., are also disclosed. |
| US09097114B2 |
Rotor casing liner
A power plant comprising: a rotor mounted for rotation; a rotor casing; and a rotor casing liner, comprising a plurality of sections, positioned between the rotor and the rotor casing; wherein at least one section of the plurality of sections of the rotor casing liner is sized to enable removal of the at least one section without adapting the rotor. |
| US09097113B2 |
Hydraulic pump/motor and method of suppressing pulsation of hydraulic pump/motor
A method of suppressing a pulsation of axial type hydraulic pump/motor includes performing a pressure accumulation operation in which each of ports of each of two pressure accumulation oil passages exclusively communicates with a corresponding one of communication holes and pressure inside one of the cylinder bores is accumulated in a corresponding one of the pressure accumulation oil passages through the communication hole in two levels, the communication holes being provided for each of the cylinder bores to communicate with inside of each of the cylinder bores and having opening portions sliding on the respective ports with rotation of the cylinder block to communicate with the respective ports; and performing an accumulated pressure collection operation in which the pressure accumulated in the pressure accumulation oil passage is collected in one of the cylinder bores in two levels. |
| US09097112B2 |
Method for anchoring a device in multilayer soil
A method for anchoring a device in multilayer soil includes analyzing the soil to determine the depth, hardness and density of at least two layers of soils. The anchoring device is prepared for positioning by attaching a self-drilling bit to a bottom end of a hollow rod, attaching a drilling disc to the rod at a position above the self-drilling bit, attaching at least one helical disc to the rod above the drilling disc, and attaching a positioning plate to the rod at a distance from the drilling disc such that the distance from the bottom of the drilling disc to the bottom of the positioning plate is approximately equal to the depth of a first layer of soil. The anchoring device is drilled into the soil until the drilling disc rests on top of the second layer and the positioning plate rests on top of the first layer. |
| US09097102B2 |
Downhole coring tools and methods of coring
A downhole coring tool conveyable within a borehole extending into a subterranean formation, wherein the downhole coring tool comprises a housing, a hollow coring bit extendable from the housing, a first motor operable to rotate the coring bit, and a second motor operable to extend the coring bit into the subterranean formation through a sidewall of the borehole in a direction not substantially parallel to a longitudinal axis of the borehole proximate the downhole coring tool. A static sleeve disposed in but rotationally independent of the coring bit receives a portion of a core sample of the formation resulting from extension of the coring bit into the formation. The static sleeve comprises a protrusion extending radially inward toward the core sample sufficiently to mark the core sample. |
| US09097100B2 |
Downhole sensor tool with a sealed sensor outsert
A downhole sensor tool includes a sensor outsert coupled into an exterior pocket of the tool body. The sensor outsert is a pressure vessel with an exterior electrical connector coupled to the interior sensor. The sensor outsert contains a sensor, and is pressure-sealed about the sensor. The outsert includes an electrical connector coupled to the sensor. The electrical connector maintains the pressure seal of the outsert. The electrical connector may be a hermetic connector. The electrical connector can be coupled to an electrical connector or a hermetic connector of the tool body while maintaining the sealing of the pressure vessel. |
| US09097096B1 |
Multi dimensional model for directional drilling
A computer drilling model for geo-steering during directional drilling of a wellbore including a processor, a data storage, and client devices in communication with the processor through a network. The processor can receive data from directional drilling equipment and can present that data to users in an executive dashboard. Users can send data and/or commands to the directional drilling equipment. The executive dashboard can present: a portion of interest in a stratigraphic cross section for user identification of: the drill bit in the stratigraphic cross section, formations in the stratigraphic cross section, and other formation data. The computer drilling model can be used to: identify a projected path for the drill bit, import data, compute wellbore profiles and stratigraphic cross sections, plot actual drilling paths, overlay the actual drilling path onto the projected path, and present control buttons to the user. |
| US09097092B2 |
Scale removal assembly
An assembly for cleanout of scale buildup from a wall of a hydrocarbon well. The assembly is configured to be deployed and operated under pressure without the requirement of coiled tubing to deliver cleanout fluid. The assembly may include a plug for sealing against the wall of the well immediately above the location of scale buildup. A cleanout tool, such as a jetting nozzle may be coupled to the downhole side of the plug. Thus, fluid and pressure may be provided to the well uphole of the plug. In this manner, the plug may direct the fluid to the jetting nozzle to achieve cleanout of the scale buildup. |
| US09097085B2 |
Multiphase drilling systems and methods
In one embodiment, a method for drilling a wellbore includes injecting drilling fluid through a drill string disposed in the wellbore and rotating a drill bit disposed on a bottom of the drill string. The drilling fluid includes a liquid and a gas. The drilling fluid is injected at the surface. The drilling fluid exits the drill bit and carries cuttings from the drill bit. The drilling fluid and cuttings (returns) flow to the surface via an annulus formed between the drill string and the wellbore. The liquid is injected at a rate so that a liquid velocity of the returns in the annulus is sufficient to transport the cuttings. The method further includes drilling through at least a portion of a non-productive formation. |
| US09097079B2 |
Fracturing port locator and isolation tool
A wellbore fluid treatment assembly includes: a tubing string, a fluid port extending through the tubing string wall, the fluid port positioned in a shift gap created by movement of a sliding sleeve valve when opening the fluid port; and a tool for locating the fluid port in the tubing string, the tool including: a body, a locking protrusion encircling a circumference of the body, at least a portion of the locking protrusion having a length measured along the tool's long axis selected to fit into the shift gap. |
| US09097073B2 |
Dual string section mill
A dual string section milling tool includes a cutting block deployed in an axial recess in a tool body. The cutting block is configured to extend radially outward from and retract radially inward towards the tool body. The cutting block is further configured to remove a cement layer in a wellbore. The dual string section milling tool further includes a milling blade deployed in an axially slot disposed in the cutting block. The milling blade is configured to extend radially outward from and inwards towards the cutting block. The milling blade is further configured to cut and mill a section of casing string. The dual string section milling tool may be further configured to simultaneously remove cement and mill a wellbore tubular. |
| US09097070B2 |
Apparatus for automated oilfield torque wrench set-up to make-up and break-out tubular strings
Automated make-up and break-up methods and apparatus for rotary oil well drilling are presented. The apparatus includes a drilling database storing tubular type records, a torque wrench having a spinner, and a controller. During make-up, the controller retrieves one or more tubular type records stored in the drilling database in order to configure the torque wrench and/or the spinner to connect an additional tubular section to a tubular string or to disconnect a connection between tubulars in accordance with tubular type parameters. Sensors are employed on various drill rig components and reported sensor values are monitored. Timers are started concurrent with the initiation of various make-up and break-out steps. Exceptions are thrown when sensor values are out-of-range or when steps take too long to complete. Advantages are derived from speeding-up drill rig operations. |
| US09097069B2 |
Tool for centering a casing or liner in a borehole and method of use
There is disclosed a tool for centering a casing or liner In a borehole. The tool Includes a tubular section Inserted In the casing/liner. A number of pressure cylinders (4) are mounted in the tubular section along the circumference. The pressure cylinders may be expanded by pressure from the Inside of the tubular section. In use, the casing/liner with the tubular section is run into the borehole with the pressure cylinders retracted. Thereafter, the pressure Inside the casing/liner Is Increased pressing the pressure cylinders out and centering the casing/liner. |
| US09097066B2 |
Method, system and apparatus for deployment of umbilicals in subsea well operations
In subsea drilling operations, workover control systems may include deployment of an umbilical from a deepwater drilling vessel. Such an umbilical provides support functions for deepwater drilling operations. In the practice of the invention, a new method, system and apparatus may be employed to deploy the umbilical independently of the drilling riser, which provides commercial and operational advantages. That is, the umbilical may be deployed at a different time than the riser is deployed, and also without intimate close connection from the umbilical to the riser. |
| US09097057B2 |
Locking mechanisms for safes, such as gun safes
A safe (e.g., a gun safe) according to various embodiments comprises: (A) a housing defining an interior portion and an opening; (B) a door disposed adjacent the opening, the door being mounted to move between: (1) a closed position, in which the door prevents access to the interior portion; and (2) an open position, in which the door does not prevent access to the interior portion; and (C) a locking mechanism for maintaining the door in the closed position. In particular embodiments, the locking mechanism comprises a lock bar defining at least one elongated (e.g., substantially planar) tab, the lock bar being mounted to slide between: (1) a locked position, in which at least a particular portion of the elongated tab is disposed in an opening defined by the housing; and (2) an unlocked position, in which the particular portion of the elongated tab is not disposed in the opening. |
| US09097054B2 |
Implementation of on-off passive wireless surface acoustic wave sensor using coding and switching techniques
Methods and systems for passive wireless surface acoustic wave devices for orthogonal frequency coded devices to implement ON-OFF sensors reusing orthogonal frequency code and distinguishing between ON and OFF states using additional PN sequence and on/off switches producing multi-level coding as well as external stimuli for switching and identification of a closure system. An embodiment adds a level of diversity by adding a dibit to each surface acoustic wave devices, thus providing four different possible coding states. The PN on-off coding can be with the dibit for coding in a multi-tag system. |
| US09097051B2 |
Door operator
A door operator includes a base plate with a receiving profile, a shaft housing inserted into the receiving profile, a first cylinder housing inserted into the receiving profile, a driven shaft rotatably bearing-mounted in the shaft housing, and a piston which is linearly movably guided in the first cylinder housing. The piston and the driven shaft cooperate for mutual conversion between a linear movement of the piston and a rotational movement of the driven shaft, and an energy accumulator is arranged in the first cylinder housing and cooperates with the piston. |
| US09097047B2 |
Cantilevered folding gate and module suitable for fitting in such gate
A cantilevered folding gate (1) may be used with a module (13) which is suitable for fitting in such cantilevered folding gates (1) and includes a transmission mechanism (5) which is accommodated in a housing (14) and which is designed to transmit the movement of a first gate leaf (3) to a second leaf (4) so that the first (3) and second (4) gate leaf open or close simultaneously by folding. |
| US09097044B2 |
Stoppers for doors and/or windows
A door and/or window stopper includes two branches each having a contour tapering toward a tip and further includes a coupling body, which is at least partially made of rubber or a flexible, rubber-like thermoplastic material or elastomer, wherein at least outer surfaces of the branches have a relatively high friction coefficient. The two branches have inner surfaces, which are connected to each other in a connecting region and extend away from each other outward to tips of the branches. The two branches are connected to each other by way of a connecting body and disposed in a V-shaped manner. Proceeding from the respective tips, the outer surfaces of the branches extend at decreasing distances toward the coupling body. |
| US09097043B2 |
Multi-point locking system and astragal
A multipoint locking system includes a body having an upper aperture and a lower aperture therein. An upper latch pawl is disposed in the upper aperture and is pivotable about a first vertical axis between a first retracted position and a first extended position. A lower latch pawl is disposed in the lower aperture and is pivotable about a second vertical axis between a second retracted position and a second extended position. At least one actuator is configured to move the upper and lower latch pawls between their retracted and extended positions. The body can be an astragal, a vertical frame member, or the like. |
| US09097042B2 |
Front body structure for vehicle
A front body structure for a vehicle includes a striker bracket provided in a hood frame, and a frame reinforcing unit provided in front of the striker bracket to reinforce the hood frame. In addition to, or alternatively, a reinforcement is arranged between the frame and a at least a portion of the hood skin. |
| US09097040B2 |
Handle for the inside of a door of a motor vehicle
A door handle for the inside of a motor vehicle door includes a mounting region and a gripping region. The handle is formed as a basic body which is substantially U-shaped with two leg portions connected by a base member. The gripping region is formed on a first leg portion and the mounting region is formed on the second leg portion of the basic body. The first and second leg portions point in substantially the same direction so that door opening and closing forces applied to the gripping region substantially avoid creating torque at the mounting region. |
| US09097038B1 |
Slide lock device
A slide lock device is disclosed for preventing a panel from being displaced from an opening. The slide lock device comprises a latch plate and a mounting plate. A fastener traverses the latch plate and the mounting plate for slidably coupling the latch plate to a first side edge of the panel. A bolt extends from a lower edge of the latch plate. A bolt receiver is coupled to a first side structure of a surrounding structure. A lower stop surface of the mounting plate is adjacent to a lower termination surface of the latch plate for defining a non-locking position wherein the bolt may not engage with the bolt receiver for permitting displacement of the panel relative to the opening. An upper stop surface of the mounting plate is adjacent to an upper termination surface of the latch plate for defining a locking position therein the bolt engages with the bolt receiver upon the latch plate aligning with the bolt receiver for preventing the displacement of the panel relative to the opening. |
| US09097035B2 |
Key for a lock
A key (1) for operating a lock such as a door lock or padlock, includes a grip portion (2) and a cylindrical shank (3). The shank includes an abutment (4) that extends radially to position the key in the lock and transfer driving force from the key to the lock mechanism. The key includes encoding recesses (5) that cooperate with elements for unlocking the lock, such as pins. In cross-section at least part of each encoding recess has a substantially triangular shape with a truncated vertex. |
| US09097029B2 |
Ice-compensating cover, method of manufacture thereof, a method of covering a pool with the ice-compensating cover
An ice-compensating cover including: a cover; a float; and a separable fastener interposed between the cover and the float, the separable fastener including a first portion adhesively bonded to the cover, and a second portion adhesively bonded to the float, wherein at least one of the first portion and the second portion defines a first opening in a center of the at least one of the first portion and the second portion. |
| US09097024B2 |
Foam insulation board
Disclosed herein are embodiments of foam backing panels for use with lap siding and configured for mounting on a building. Also disclosed are lap siding assemblies and products of lap sidings. One such embodiment of the foam backing panel comprises a rear face configured to contact the building, a flat front face configured for attachment to the lap siding, alignment means for aligning the lap siding relative to the building, means for providing a shadow line, opposing vertical side faces, a top face extending between a top edge of the front face and rear face and a bottom face extending between a bottom edge of the front face and rear face. |
| US09097022B2 |
Modular planting system for roof applications
A green roof planter module includes a planter including a bottom wall, a plurality of sidewalls each including an upper portion and a lower portion, wherein the bottom wall and the plurality of sidewalls cooperate with one another to form an interior space, and a biodegradable collar member extending upwardly from at least a select one of the biodegradable sidewalls, wherein at least a portion of the collar member is in-molded within the upper portion of at least one of the sidewalls, and wherein the collar member is adapted to retain a plant matter that extends above the plurality of sidewalls. |
| US09097014B1 |
Cartridge for retaining a sheathing of a tendon within an anchor assembly
A cartridge for retaining a sheathing of a tendon within an anchor assembly has a generally tubular body with outer and inner surfaces, and at least one wedge positioned within the tubular body and against the inner surface thereof. The wedge has a surface opposite the inner wall that engages with the sheathing of the tendon. A seal is affixed to an end of the tubular body which is suitable for sealing against an anchor of the anchor assembly and an inner surface suitable for sealing against the sheathing. The inner wall of the tubular body tapers so as to narrow in inner diameter from one end thereof. The wedge has a surface bearing against the tapered portion of the inner wall of the tubular body. A protrusion extends outwardly of the tubular body so as to be received within a slot of a tubular extension of the anchor assembly. |
| US09097011B1 |
Heat and fire resistant plastic foam
A heat and fire resistant system, comprising at least one layer of an intumescent coating applied on at least one surface of a foam substrate. The intumescent coating includes an intumescent catalyst, a carbonific, a blowing agent, expandable graphite, and a binder. A method for rendering a foam substrate resistant to heat and fire, comprising applying at least one layer of intumescent coating composition onto at least one surface of the foamed substrate and allowing the intumescent coating to dry on the foamed substrate. The intumescent coating composition includes an intumescent catalyst, a carbonific, a blowing agent, expandable graphite, and a binder. |
| US09097009B2 |
Stronger wall system
A new prefabricated wall panel is the basic unit of a new, more efficient and stronger wall system. The wall panel is manufactured from a plurality of foam sections sized to leave vertical and horizontal voids into which concrete is later poured, each foam section having an inner and outer surface and two sides; and a plurality of fastening strips. The fastening strips are longitudinal metal strips being situated between the sides of two foam sections. Each fastening strip has two longitudinal fastening strips projecting perpendicularly to the longitudinal fastening strip and the fastening strips being adjacent to the outer surface of the two foam sections. The fastening strip also has a plurality of clearance holes in the longitudinal fastening strip, a plurality of embed tabs projecting from the edge opposite the fastening strips, each embed tab having at least one hole, and between each pair of embed tabs, a foam tab to hold the two inner sides of the foam sections in place and partially separate the foam sections from the concrete to be poured into a form. |
| US09097004B2 |
Combined pre-embedded anchoring slot system
The present application relates to a pre-embedded anchor system for securing construction elements to concrete slabs. The system comprises at least one pair of juxtaposed elongate anchor slots (1) connected together by at least two linkage bolts (8) and an assembly of steel bars (2) interconnecting a plurality of anchor members (3) at connection nodes (7) of the anchor members (3). The anchor slots (1) have a plurality of anchor members (3) extending therefrom. The pair of juxtaposed anchor slots (1) are interconnected by the linkage bolts (8) and the assembly of crossover steel bars (2) to form a frame. |
| US09097002B2 |
Double-lock rail
The present invention relates to a heddle (32) for a stretched fabric false wall provided with a harpoon that includes an inner arm, by means of which the harpoon is connected to the periphery of said fabric, and a curved outer arm, said heddle (32) including at least two peripheral vertical flanges (34) that extend downward and define at least one downwardly opening recess, and at least one shoulder (39) for receiving the bottom end of the outer arm when the fabric is stretched, said heddle (32) being characterized in that it includes two peripheral vertical flanges (34) and a central vertical flange (35), said flanges (34, 35) extending downward and defining two downwardly opening recesses, and in that each of said peripheral vertical flanges (34) includes a shoulder (39) on the inner surface thereof, and in that said central vertical flange (35) includes a shoulder (36) on each of the surfaces thereof. |
| US09096997B2 |
Sanitary washing apparatus
A sanitary washing apparatus is provided according to one aspect of the invention, where the sanitary washing apparatus includes: a washing nozzle having a water discharge port, where the washing nozzle is configured to wash a body of a user by squirting water from the water discharge port; and a casing capable of storing the washing nozzle. The washing nozzle is configured to change from a stored state to an advanced state while transitioning to an orientation having a greater angle of an axis of the washing nozzle with respect to a horizontal plane, where the washing nozzle is stored in the casing in the stored state, and the washing nozzle is configured to wash the body in the advanced state. |
| US09096996B2 |
Water saver system for managing and eliminating liquids, semi-solids and solids, integrated by at least one water closet and a washbasin
A water-saving system for the management and disposal of liquid, semi-solid and solid wastes is described that comprises an open-rim toilet bowl for allowing the flow of greywater containing food residues, small pieces of soap, soapy water, toothpaste residues, shaving residues, hair and the like, without allowing the formation of obstructions throughout the length of the open rim; an anti-sedimentation tank placed above and connected to the toilet bowl, said anti-sedimentation tank being capable of receiving and storing greywater that will be reused to flush the toilet to clean the toilet bowl and flush the wastes contained therein; a washbasin-shaped tank lid located above and closing the upper part of the anti-sedimentation tank; and mixer valve installed in the washbasin-shaped lid and connected to cold and hot water supplies, where the mixer valve includes a third water supply intake which is also connected to a water outlet of the intake valve of the anti-sedimentation tank by means of a flexible hose. |
| US09096992B2 |
Dipper door assembly
A dipper assembly includes a dipper, a dipper door, a closure mechanism, and one or more block assemblies. The dipper door is pivotally mounted to the dipper, and has a closed position in which the dipper door covers the dipper bottom. The closure mechanism has a locked position and an unlocked position, and is coupled to the dipper back and the dipper door. In the locked position, the closure mechanism holds the dipper door in the closed position. In the unlocked position, the closure mechanism allows the dipper door to swing away from the closed position. The block assemblies are coupled to the dipper back and limit a rotation of the side link plate to a pre-defined angle that corresponds to the closed position. |
| US09096988B2 |
Prospecting shovel
The present invention describes a prospecting tool in the form of a shovel. The prospecting shovel is designed to reduce the likelihood of sediment exiting the tool inadvertently during use. The device comprises a hand tool with an elongated handle and a bucket shaped working end adapted for scooping sediment from a creek. The bucket includes an open design having a leading end adapted for insertion into a creek floor and an internal ledge therein, whereby the ledge is configured to reduce the exiting of sediment from within the shovel. The design enables a user to scoop sediment from the bottom of a creek by performing a raking motion, whereby the leading end digs into the sediment and the ledge facilitates the retaining of minerals within the device. |
| US09096985B1 |
Foundation with slab, pedestal and ribs for columns and towers
A fatigue resistant gravity based spread footing under heavy multi-axial cyclical loading of a wind tower. The foundation having a central vertical pedestal, a substantially horizontal continuous bottom support slab with a stiffened perimeter, a plurality of radial reinforcing ribs extending radially outward from the pedestal. The pedestal, ribs and slab forming a continuous monolithic structure. The foundation having a three-dimensional network of post-tensioning elements that keep the structural elements under heavy multi-axial post compression with a specific eccentricity intended to reduce stress amplitudes and deflections and allows the foundation to have a desirable combination of high stiffness and superior fatigue resistance. The foundation design reduces the weight and volume of materials used, reduces cost, and improves heat dissipation conditions during construction by having a small ratio of concrete mass to surface area thus eliminating the risk of thermal cracking due to heat of hydration. |
| US09096984B2 |
Network material devices, methods, and systems
Fibrillar bacterial proteins can be mixed with oil in or on water. The interaction of the proteins at the oil-water interface can result in oil dispersion in water in the form of droplets surrounded by an aggregated protein film. The film may be formed by multiple layers of the fibrillar proteins with water between adjacent protein layers. The proteins may be derived from bacterial cells, such as Bacillus subtilis. The encapsulated oil droplets can be collected from the water, for example, as part of an oil spill clean-up or oil storage. The oil may be removed from the collected droplets, for example, by evaporation to produce a three-dimensional network composed of the aggregated films. The three-dimensional network material can be used as a coating for transplant material, grafted onto implant material to improve biocompatibility, as a precursor for tissue growth or engineering, or provided into a human or animal body. |
| US09096979B2 |
Software application that allows a user to utilize a mobile device to control frozen precipitation treatment systems
A frozen precipitation treatment system may include a vehicle, a frozen precipitation treatment device, such as a snow plow or spreader, and an electronic mobile device that that controls the frozen precipitation treatment device. |
| US09096977B2 |
Milling machine with location indicator system
A construction machine apparatus includes a plurality of ground engaging supports, a machine frame supported from the ground engaging supports and a milling drum supported from the machine frame. A milling drum location detection system is configured to determine a drum location in an external reference system. A location indicator system includes a memory configured to store information identifying a location of one or more areas to be avoided in the external reference system, and a controller configured to compare the drum location to the location of the one or more areas to be avoided, and to provide an output corresponding to a proximity of the milling drum to the location of the one or more areas to be avoided. |
| US09096976B2 |
Self-propelled building machine and method for operating a building machine
A self-propelled building machine, especially a road cutting machine or a surface miner, has a machine frame and a chassis, comprising running gears resting on the ground. In addition, the present invention relates to a method for operating such a building machine. In an operating mode for adjusting the working depth of the working device the imposed weight applied by the building machine on the running gear is measured, whereby depending on the imposed weight either a controlled or an uncontrolled lowering of the building machine is indicated. A measuring device comprises a sensor for measuring the weight imposed by the building machine on at least one of the running gears. Depending on the measured imposed weight, a signal is generated indicating an uncontrolled lowering of the building machine, if the imposed weight falls short of a predetermined value and/or a signal indicating a controlled lowering of the building machine is generated if the imposed weight reaches or exceeds a predetermined threshold value. |
| US09096970B2 |
Clothes treating apparatus
An apparatus for treating clothes includes an accommodating space, an air supply unit, a duct unit, a filter unit, a substance removal unit and a collection unit that is separate from the filter unit and the substance removal unit. The accommodating space is configured to receive one or more clothing articles. The air supply unit is configured to supply air to the accommodating space. The duct unit is configured to guide discharge of air from the accommodating space. The filter unit is positioned to filter substances from air discharged from the accommodating space through the duct unit. The substance removal unit is configured to move substances remaining on a portion of the filter unit. The collection unit is configured to collect substances moved from the filter unit by the substance removal unit. |
| US09096968B1 |
Portable clothesline system for heavy garments
A portable clothesline system for helping to dry garments, heavy rugs, or blankets featuring a pair of vertical bars positioned parallel to each other and supported by tapered bases and a pair of horizontal bars attached to the top ends of the vertical bars. The horizontal bars are connected via a plurality of wires that extend from one horizontal bar to the other. The wires are secured to the horizontal bars via slots with perforations. |
| US09096965B2 |
Apparatus for treating laundry having a ring shaped circular guide
Provided is a laundry treating apparatus including a drum, a circular guide, and a panel. The drum holds laundry, has a front side and a rear side opened, and has a cross-section of a noncircular looped curve in which a distance from a rotation center is not uniform. The circular guide rotatably supports a portion of the drum in which a section curvature is uniform. The panel is provided on a front side or a rear side of the drum and supports the circular guide such that the circular guide is rotatable. |
| US09096964B2 |
Method and circuit arrangement for determining the load and/or unbalance of a laundry drum of a washing machine
In a method for determining a load and/or an unbalance of a laundry drum of a washing machine driven by an electric motor having a stator with at least one winding coupled to a power inverter controlled by a control unit, the laundry drum is accelerated to a predetermined rotational speed and then slowed down. During the slow-down, the motor operates in generator mode and an electric current flowing through the at least one winding and/or an electric intermediate circuit voltage is measured. The time dependence of the electric power supplied by the electric motor in generator mode is evaluated during a revolution of the laundry drum. The unbalance and/or the load are determined from the measured current values and/or the intermediate circuit voltage and from the determined electric power. A corresponding circuit arrangement and a washing machine with this circuit arrangement are also disclosed. |
| US09096963B2 |
Positioning device for the positioning of loops for sewing said loops and sewing machine comprising said device
Positioning device adapted to dispose a strip of fabric or other similar material on an article of clothing do as to form a loop, the strips divided into a central portion and two opposite ends, the positioning device rotates at least one of the two ends of the strip in order to bring that end or ends into abutment with the central portion of the strip; and wherein guide means guide the end or ends of the strip during rotation. |
| US09096960B2 |
Apparatus and methods for impinging fluids on substrates
Herein are disclosed apparatus and methods for impinging fluids, e.g. heated fluids, onto the surface of substrates and then locally removing the impinged fluid. The apparatus may comprise at least first and second fluid delivery outlets that are in diverging relation to each other. The apparatus may comprise at least first and second fluid capture inlets that are locally positioned relative to the first and second fluid delivery outlets, respectively. The apparatus and method may be used e.g. to impinge fluids onto two converging substrates and may be used to heat the surfaces of the substrates so as to facilitate melt-bonding the substrates to each other. |
| US09096956B2 |
Process for the production of carbon fibers from poly(α(1-→3) glucan) fibers
A process is provided for preparation of carbon fibers based from fibers of poly(α(1→3) glucan). The method comprises three thermal exposures at progressively higher temperatures to drive off volatiles, thermally stabilize the glucan fiber, and carbonize the thermally stabilized fiber. The carbon fibers prepared according to the process hereof are strong, stiff, tough, and easily handled. |
| US09096955B2 |
Method for the preparation of carbon fiber from polyolefin fiber precursor, and carbon fibers made thereby
Methods for the preparation of carbon fiber from polyolefin fiber precursor, wherein the polyolefin fiber precursor is partially sulfonated and then carbonized to produce carbon fiber. Methods for producing hollow carbon fibers, wherein the hollow core is circular- or complex-shaped, are also described. Methods for producing carbon fibers possessing a circular- or complex-shaped outer surface, which may be solid or hollow, are also described. |
| US09096954B2 |
Metal nanoparticle array structure, device for producing same, and method for producing same
An object of the invention is to provide a metal nanoparticle array structure in which metal nanoparticle arrays are firmly bonded to the substrate thereof via chemical bonding or the like and in which the coverage with the metal nanoparticle arrays is high.The problem can be solved by using a metal nanoparticle array structure 10 that comprises a substrate 1, a immobilizing layer 2 formed on one surface 1a of the substrate 1, and metal nanoparticle arrays 3 formed on one surface 2a of the immobilizing layer 2, wherein the metal nanoparticle arrays 3 are so arrayed that multiple metal nanoparticles 4 can be at regular intervals and the metal nanoparticles 4 are bonded to each other via the modifying part 5 arranged on a surface thereof while the metal nanoparticles 4 are immobilized on one surface 2a of the immobilizing layer 2 via chemical bonds. |
| US09096952B2 |
Methods and compositions for polynucleotide library production, immortalization and region of interest extraction
Aspects of the present invention are drawn to methods and compositions for the genetic analysis of regions of interest (ROI) from one or more starting polynucleotide sample(s). In certain aspects, adapter tagged polynucleotide fragments from a plurality of initial polynucleotide samples are pooled, circularized and amplified to produce an immortalized library. Multiple ROI's from this immortalized library are amplified (e.g., in independent iPCR reactions) to generate amplicons, and, in some embodiments, pooled to form a pooled ROI amplicon sample. In certain embodiments, the amplicons for each ROI amplicon in the pooled ROI amplicon sample are present at known molar or mass ratios. The pooled ROI amplicon sample can be analyzed/processed as desired, e.g., sequenced using next generation sequencing technology. |
| US09096951B2 |
Method for producing second-generation library
The present invention relates to a method for generating a second-generation library. In a first step, a library of encoded molecules associated with an identifier nucleic acid comprising codons identifying chemical entities that have participated in the formation of the encoded molecule is provided. In a second step, the library is partitioned and encoded molecules having a certain property are selected. Codons of identifiers of selected encoded molecules are subsequently identified, and a second-generation library is prepared using at least some of the chemical entities coded for by the identified codons. The new focussed library may be used for another partition step to select encoded molecules with a certain property. |
| US09096947B2 |
SiC single crystal, production method therefor, SiC wafer and semiconductor device
When an SiC single crystal having a large diameter of a {0001} plane is produced by repeating a-plane growth, the a-plane growth of the SiC single crystal is carried out so that a ratio Sfacet (=S1×100/S2) of an area (S1) of a Si-plane side facet region to a total area (S2) of the growth plane is maintained at 20% or less. |
| US09096946B2 |
Reusable dual crucible for silicon melting and manufacturing apparatus of silicon slim plate including the same
A dual crucible for silicon melting and a manufacturing apparatus of a silicon thin film including the same are disclosed. The dual crucible for the silicon melting includes a graphite crucible formed in a container shape with an open top and a bottom having an outlet part formed therein to exhaust silicon melt, the graphite crucible comprising a slope part configured to connect the outlet part and an inner wall with each other, with a predetermined slope with respect to a top surface of the outlet part, and a quartz crucible insertedly coupled to the graphite crucible, with being formed in a corresponding shape to the graphite crucible, the quartz crucible having a silicon base material charged therein. |
| US09096939B2 |
Electrolysis transistor
An electrolysis transistor for providing high-density electrochemistry and products utilizing the same, and high-efficiency electrolysis and electrochemical processes is disclosed. The electrolysis transistor may comprise an electrolyte, one or more working electrodes for transferring charge to or from said electrolyte, and one or more gate structures for altering electrode over-voltage and modifying the barrier at the electrode-electrolyte interface, reducing the voltage necessary for electrolysis. An electrochemical or photo-electrochemical cell may incorporate one or more of these electrolysis transistors. |
| US09096931B2 |
Deposition valve assembly and method of heating the same
A valve assembly including a mounting block having a first surface, a plurality of valves connected to the mounting block first surface, at least one fluid line connecting the plurality of valves spaced apart from the mounting block first surface, a heating element spaced apart from the at least one fluid line and located within a first insulating layer, and wherein the first insulating layer extends less than completely around the at least one fluid line. |
| US09096929B2 |
System and method for deposition of a material on a substrate
A method and apparatus for improving coating of a substrate. |
| US09096928B2 |
Method of manufacturing semiconductor device and substrate processing apparatus
Provided is a method of manufacturing a semiconductor device, including: forming a silicon oxide film on a surface of a substrate holder by repeatedly performing forming a silicon-containing layer on the surface of the substrate holder and oxidizing the silicon-containing layer; forming a thin film on a substrate by using a process gas; removing deposits attached onto the substrate holder by using a fluorine-containing gas; and reforming a silicon oxide film on the surface of the substrate holder after removal of the deposits by repeatedly performing forming a silicon-containing layer on the surface of the substrate holder and oxidizing the silicon-containing layer by using an oxygen-containing gas and a hydrogen-containing gas. |
| US09096926B2 |
Adjustable process spacing, centering, and improved gas conductance
Embodiments of the invention generally provide a process kit for use in a physical deposition chamber (PVD) chamber. In one embodiment, the process kit provides adjustable process spacing, centering between the cover ring and the shield, and controlled gas flow between the cover ring and the shield contributing to uniform gas distribution, which promotes greater process uniformity and repeatability along with longer chamber component service life. |
| US09096908B2 |
Selective detection of Bordetella species
A process for detecting Bordetella spp. nucleic acid in a biological sample includes producing an amplification product(s) by amplifying one or more Bordetella spp. in a multiplex single chamber PCR assay, and measuring the amplification product(s) to detect or distinguish Bordetella spp. in the biological sample. Also provided are reagents and methods for detecting and distinguishing Bordetella spp. from each other and other bacteria or viruses. A kit is provided for detecting and quantifying one or more Bordetella spp. in a biological sample. |
| US09096895B2 |
Method for quantification of small RNA species
The present invention relates to a method for amplification and quantification of microRNA molecules using quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) technology. The method comprise the steps of (a) producing cDNA molecules complementary' to microRNAs in a sample using polyadenylation and primer extension by reverse transcription, and (b) amplification and quantification of the cDNAs by qPCR using microRNA specific primer sets of forward and reverse primers containing LNA monomers. |
| US09096894B2 |
Dry reagent, dry reagent kit, reagent container, and method for producing dry reagent
The present invention provides a dry reagent capable of amplifying a nucleic acid even after being stored in a dry state at room temperature, a dry reagent kit, a reagent container, and a method for producing the dry reagent and methods of producing and using thereof. |
| US09096886B2 |
Method for the determination of botulinum neurotoxin biological activity
The present invention relates to means and methods for determining neurotoxin activity. Specifically, it relates to a polypeptide having caspase activity comprising a large subunit and a small subunit wherein the caspase further comprises a neurotoxin cleavage site which upon cleavage activates the caspase activity. Also encompassed are polynucleotides encoding the polypeptides as well as vectors or host cells comprising the polynucleotides. The present invention further relates to a method for determining neurotoxin activity in a sample based on the polypeptide of the invention as well as the use of the polypeptide for determining neurotoxin activity in a sample, in general. |
| US09096882B2 |
Method of selecting antioxidants for use in topically applied compositions
The invention provides antioxidant-containing compositions and methods for confirming antioxidant activity of a composition formulated for topical application to skin. The invention also provides methods for testing a composition for the ability to inhibit both ultraviolet radiation-induced lipid peroxidation on skin and ultraviolet radiation-induced reactive oxygen species formation in the stratum corneum as well as compositions and methods for treating and preventing photodamage to skin. |
| US09096881B2 |
Heterocyclic nitrogen containing polymer coated analyte monitoring device and methods of use
The present invention is directed to membranes composed of heterocyclic nitrogen groups, such as vinylpyridine and to electrochemical sensors equipped with such membranes. The membranes are useful in limiting the diffusion of an analyte to a working electrode in an electrochemical sensor so that the sensor does not saturate and/or remains linearly responsive over a large range of analyte concentrations. Electrochemical sensors equipped with membranes described herein demonstrate considerable sensitivity and stability, and a large signal-to-noise ratio, in a variety of conditions. |
| US09096872B2 |
Recombinant microorganisms having increased ability to produce butanol and method of producing butanol using the same
The present invention relates to recombinant microorganisms having an increased ability to produce butanol, and a method of producing butanol using the same. More specifically, the invention relates to recombinant microorganisms whose ability to produce butanol was increased by manipulation of their metabolic networks, and a method of producing butanol using the same. The recombinant microorganisms having an increased ability to produce butanol comprise a deletion of a gene, which encodes an enzyme that converts acetyl CoA to acetate, in host microorganisms having genes that encode enzymes involved in acetyl CoA and butyryl CoA biosynthetic pathway. The recombinant microorganisms obtained by manipulating the metabolic flux of microorganisms are able to selectively produce butanol with high efficiency, and thus are useful as microorganisms for producing industrial solvents and transportation fuels. |
| US09096869B2 |
Recombinant nonpathogenic MDV vector providing multivalent immunity
The present invention relates to the field of veterinary vaccines, in particular to that of vector vaccines for poultry based on recombinant nonpathogenic Marek's disease virus (npMDV). The recombinant npMDV of the invention expresses stably and effectively two heterologous genes each originating from a different micro-organism: the fusion protein gene from Newcastle disease virus, and the viral protein 2 gene from infectious bursal disease virus. A vaccine based on this recombinant npMDV can be used to induce in poultry a protective immune response not only against Marek's disease, but also against Newcastle disease and Infectious bursal disease. The invention also relates to methods and uses involving the recombinant npMDV, expression cassette, infected host cells, and vaccines. |
| US09096866B2 |
Inbred corn line II11
Inbred corn line designated II11 is disclosed. The invention relates to the seeds of inbred corn line II11, to the plants and plant parts of inbred corn line II11 and to methods for producing a corn plant, either inbred or hybrid, by crossing inbred corn line II11 with itself or another corn line. The invention also relates to products produced from the seeds, plants, or parts thereof, of inbred corn line II11 and/or of the hybrids produced using the inbred as a parent. The invention further relates to methods for producing a corn plant containing in its genetic material one or more transgenes and to the transgenic plants produced by that method and to methods for producing other inbred corn lines derived from inbred corn line II11. |
| US09096863B2 |
Biosynthetic engineering of glucosinolates
The invention provides methods and materials, such as newly characterized genes, and novel processes, for converting a host from a phenotype whereby the host is unable to carry out glucosinolate (GSL) biosynthesis or chain elongation from an amino acid GSL-precursor to a phenotype whereby the host carries out said biosynthesis or elongation. |
| US09096851B2 |
Antisense oligonucleotides directed against connective tissue growth factor and uses thereof
This invention provides compounds which comprise modified oligonucleotides capable of inhibitory expression of connective tissue factor and composition containing same as well as methods of treating hyperprolific disorders and fibrotic diseases, and of reducing scarring resulting from wound healing using such compounds. |
| US09096850B2 |
Segmented micro RNA mimetics
This invention relates generally to segmented oligonucleotides capable of modulating gene expression. Specifically, the instant invention relates to segmented microRNA (miRNA) oligonucleotides, including segmented miRNA precursors and segmented pre-microRNAs. The invention also relates to compositions comprising such segmented oligonucleotides, as well as to methods of making and using such oligonucleotides for diagnosis and treatment of diseases associated or causally linked to aberrant levels or activities of gene expression, including aberrant levels of coding and/or non-coding RNA. |
| US09096849B2 |
Solid phase for capture of nucleic acids
A method of: providing a solid surface having a dendrimer molecule bound thereto and a single-stranded probe nucleic acid immobilized to the dendrimer; contacting the solid surface with a sample suspected or known to contain a double-stranded complimentary target nucleic acid; denaturing the target nucleic acids at thermal conditions and in a salt concentration sufficient to denature the target nucleic acids to produce denatured nucleic acids; and cooling the sample to allow hybridization of the denatured nucleic acids to the probe nucleic acids. An article having: one or more paramagnetic microbeads; a dendrimer molecule bound to the beads; and a probe nucleic acid immobilized to the dendrimer. |
| US09096848B2 |
Methods and devices for manipulation of target cells using a combined application of acoustical and optical radiations
A method of applying a nondestructive mechanical force on one or more cells in aqueous environment by inducing heat generated acoustic pressure pulses. The method comprises providing an energy transmission pattern to induce the applying of a desired nondestructive mechanical force on a at least one cell by forming a plurality of heat generated acoustic pressure pulses in an aqueous environment and instructing the radiation of a target area in proximity to the at least one cell in the aqueous environment with light energy according to the energy transmission pattern. |
| US09096838B2 |
Proteases comprising one or more combinable mutations
The present invention provides engineered protease variants. In particular, the protease variants comprise combinable mutations at selected surface positions that affect the charge and/or hydrophobicity of the enzyme to enhance at least one desired property of the resulting variant enzyme in a chosen application. Compositions comprising the protease variants, and methods for using the same are also provided. |
| US09096833B2 |
Methods of treating pre-malignant ductal cancer with autophagy inhibitors
Described herein are progenitor cancer cells and cell lines isolated from human breast ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) lesions and the uses of these cells or cell lines in drug design, drug screening, and monitoring in vivo therapy. The DCIS malignant precursor cells or cell lines are epithelial in origin, are positive for markers of autophagy, show at least one genetic difference from normal cells of said fragment, form 3-D tube-like structures or ball aggregates, or are inhibited in formation of 3-D structures and migration by treatment with chloroquine. In one embodiment, there is a loss of heterozygosity (LOH) that is narrowly confined to a region of chromosome 6p (6p21.1-6p12.3) that contains the SUPT3H gene. |
| US09096827B2 |
Adherent cells from placenta tissue and use thereof in therapy
A method of culturing adherent cells from a placenta or adipose tissue is disclosed. The method comprising culturing the adherent cells from the placenta or adipose tissue under 2 dimensional (2D) culturing conditions which allow cell expansion, the conditions comprising continuous passaging of the cells for at least 4 passages. |
| US09096825B2 |
7 α-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase knockout mutants and use therefor
The invention relates to 12 α-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenases, nucleic acid sequences coding for the same, expression cassettes and vectors, recombinant microorganisms containing the corresponding coding nucleic acid sequences, a method for producing said 12 α-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenases, a method for enzymatic oxidation of 12 α-hydroxysteroids using said enzyme, a method for enzymatic reduction of 12-ketosteroids using said enzyme, a method for qualitative or quantitative determination of 12-ketosteroids and/or 12α-hydroxysteroids using said 12α-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenases and a method for production of ursodesoxycholic acid, comprising the enzyme-catalyzed cholic acid oxidation using said 12 α-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenases. |
| US09096823B1 |
Microfluidic device for acoustic cell lysis
A microfluidic acoustic-based cell lysing device that can be integrated with on-chip nucleic acid extraction. Using a bulk acoustic wave (BAW) transducer array, acoustic waves can be coupled into microfluidic cartridges resulting in the lysis of cells contained therein by localized acoustic pressure. Cellular materials can then be extracted from the lysed cells. For example, nucleic acids can be extracted from the lysate using silica-based sol-gel filled microchannels, nucleic acid binding magnetic beads, or Nafion-coated electrodes. Integration of cell lysis and nucleic acid extraction on-chip enables a small, portable system that allows for rapid analysis in the field. |
| US09096822B2 |
Device to produce biogas
A device to produce biogas that includes at least one fermenter (1) to receive a substrate (2) to be percolated, and a percolate container (3). The fermenter (1) and the percolate container (3) are connected with each other such that the percolate within the fermenter (1) seeping through the substrate (2) makes its way into the percolate container (3) which serves as a thermal reservoir, from which it may be directed back to the fermenter (1) as necessary. The percolate container (3) serving as a thermal reservoir and/or the sand trap which serves as a percolate collector (5) are located at least partially below the floor surface (1a) of the fermenter (1). |
| US09096819B2 |
Ophthalmic compositions with an amphoteric surfactant and an anionic biopolymer
Ophthalmic compositions that comprise 0.1 ppm to 50 ppm of a cationic antimicrobial component selected from the group consisting of biguanides, polymeric biguanides, quaternium ammonium compounds and any one mixture thereof; 0.005 wt. % to 2 wt. % of an anionic biopolymer; and 0.01 wt. % to 2 wt. % of an amphoteric surfactant of general formula I wherein R1 is R or —(CH2)n—NHC(O)R, wherein R is a C8-C30alkyl optionally substituted with hydroxyl and n is 2, 3 or 4; R2 and R3 are each independently selected from C1-C4alkyl; R4 is a C2-C8alkylene optionally substituted with hydroxyl; and Y is CO2− or SO3. The invention is also direct to the use of the ophthalmic compositions to clean and disinfect contact lenses, and in particular, soft, silicone hydrogel contact lenses. |
| US09096818B2 |
Automatic dishwashing detergent compositions comprising ethercarboxylic acids or their salts and nonionic surfactants with a high cloud point
The present invention relates to automatic dishwashing detergent compositions comprising a) one or more compounds of the formula (I) wherein R is a linear or branched saturated alkyl group comprising from 8 to 30 carbon atoms or a linear or branched unsaturated alkenyl group with one or more double bonds and comprising from 8 to 30 carbon atoms, n is a number from 1 to 20, and M is a counter ion, and b) one or more nonionic surfactants having a cloud point of 30° C. or more, and c) one or more builder substances. The inventive automatic dishwashing detergent compositions in particular possess an advantageous anti-spotting behavior. |
| US09096816B2 |
Composition
The present invention provides the use of a composition comprising a polyalkyleneimine and/or salts or derivative thereof and an amphoteric polymer for the prevention of corrosion of non-metallic in organic items during a washing or rinsing process, in particular during an automatic dishwashing process. |
| US09096815B2 |
Compositions comprising 20-carbon fatty acids and methods of making and using same
The present disclosure provides a process for producing 20-carbon fatty acids from a plant seed oil, the process comprising: a) providing a plant seed oil comprising fatty acids, wherein the fatty acids include 18-carbon fatty acids; and b) elongating the fatty acids by two carbon atoms to produce a composition comprising 20-carbon fatty acids. |
| US09096814B2 |
Lubricating grease composition
A lubricating grease composition for extra heavy duty extreme pressure applications comprises a major amount of a synthetic base oil a lithium complex thickener, at least one extreme pressure agent; and at least 5 wt. % of molybdenum disulfide, based on a total weight of the lubricating grease composition. |
| US09096813B2 |
Grease composition
A grease composition for use in resin lubrication wherein at least one amine salt of an unsaturated or saturated fatty acid is incorporated in a grease base material which includes a base oil and a thickener, preferably wherein at least one fatty acid amine salt of the following general formula (1) is incorporated: RCOO− R′ NH3+ wherein either (i) R is an unsaturated hydrocarbon group having from 15 to 21 carbon atoms, and R′ is a saturated or unsaturated linear or branched hydrocarbon group having from 8 to 22 carbon atoms; or (ii) R is a linear saturated hydrocarbon group having from 5 to 21 carbon atoms, and R′ is an unsaturated hydrocarbon group having from 16 to 18 carbon atoms. The grease composition of the present invention improves the lubricity between resin and resin or resin. and another material such as a metal. |
| US09096811B2 |
Functional fluid composition
A functional fluid composition comprising a naphthenic bright stock base oil and a Fischer-Tropsch derived base oil, wherein the functional fluid composition has a Viscosity Index (according to ASTM D 2270) of above 95. |
| US09096808B2 |
Gasification reactor for the production of crude gas
In the case of a gasification reactor for the production of crude gas, containing CO or H2, by gasification of ash-containing fuel with oxygen-containing gas, at temperatures above the melting temperature of the ash, wherein a reaction chamber formed by a membrane wall through which coolant flows, within a pressure container, subsequently a transition region and a quench chamber are provided, with a slag/water bath following in the direction of gravity, a funnel-shaped slag collection container is provided in the slag/water bath, which container is equipped, in the inflow direction of the slag, with a second funnel-shaped insert as a precipitation cone, the funnel wall of which forms a circumferential ring gap to the slag collection container, and the free border edge of which is positioned above the free border edge of the slag collection container. |
| US09096805B2 |
Anhydride demulsifier formulations for resolving emulsions of water and oil
The present invention includes the use of anhydride compositions, including alkyl and aryl anhydrides, for use as a demulsifier in resolving water external emulsions of water and oil and complex emulsions of water and oil. In particular, the anhydride composition can be used alone or in a blend with other demulsifiers. Suitable anhydrides suitable for the present invention include acetic and propionic, with acetic anhydride being preferred. The anhydride composition can be added directly to crude oil emulsions or other compositions to be resolved. As such, the demulsifier composition includes an anhydride, such as acetic anhydride, alone or in combination with other demulsifiers. The anhydride can be used in an amount ranging between trace and 100% by weight of the demulsifier composition. |
| US09096804B2 |
Process for hydroprocessing of non-petroleum feedstocks
A method of hydroprocessing is performed wherein non-petroleum feedstocks, such as those containing from about 10% or more olefinic compounds or heteroatom contaminants by weight, are treated in a first reaction zone to provide reaction products. The process involves introducing the feedstock along with diluents or a recycle and hydrogen in a first reaction zone and allowing the feed and hydrogen to react in a liquid phase within the first reaction zone to produce reaction products. The reaction products are cooled and/or water is removed from the reaction products. At least a portion of the cooled and/or separated reaction product are introduced as a feed along with hydrogen into a second reaction zone containing a hydroprocessing catalyst. The feed and hydrogen are allowed to react in a liquid phase within the second reaction zone to produce a second-reaction-zone reaction product. |
| US09096797B2 |
Silicate phosphor, method of manufacturing silicate phosphor, and light-generating device having silicate phosphor
A silicate phosphor composition is provided having a γ-phase of an orthorhombic crystal structure whose space group is Pbnm 62, and whose composition is represented by the following chemical formula: Ca2-x-y-zMxSiO4:yCe3+,zN(0≦x<0.5,0 |
| US09096794B2 |
High flow liquid crystalline polymer composition
A liquid crystalline polymer composition that contains a liquid crystalline polymer and an aromatic amide oligomer is provided. The oligomer can serve as a flow aid by altering intermolecular polymer chain interactions, thereby lowering the overall viscosity of the polymer matrix under shear. The oligomer is also not easily volatized or decomposed during compounding, molding, and/or use, which minimizes off-gassing and the formation of blisters that would otherwise impact the final mechanical properties of a part made from the polymer composition. While providing the benefits noted, the aromatic amide oligomer does not generally react with the polymer backbone of the liquid crystalline polymer to any appreciable extent so that the mechanical properties of the polymer are not adversely impacted. |
| US09096793B2 |
Soil additives for promoting seed germination, for prevention of evaporation and methods for use
The present invention relates to methods of improving germination rates of plants or crops, and of preventing or arresting water evaporation loss from targeted soil areas by use of soil additives, which allow for improved water utilization by crops, plants, grasses, vegetation, etc. |
| US09096791B2 |
Metal complexes
The present invention relates to metal complexes of the formula (1) and to electronic devices, in particular organic electro-luminescent devices, comprising these metal complexes. |
| US09096787B2 |
Corrosion inhibiting, freezing point lowering compositions
The present invention relates to corrosion inhibiting, freeze point lowering compositions comprising a mixture of a freeze point lowering agent and a corrosion inhibiting compound. The corrosion inhibiting, freeze point lowering compositions can be used in deicing brines or deicing solutions. |
| US09096784B2 |
Method and system for allignment of graphite nanofibers for enhanced thermal interface material performance
The exemplary embodiments of the present invention provide an apparatus and a thermal interface material with aligned graphite nanofibers in the thermal interface material to enhance the thermal interface material performance. The thermal interface material having a thickness between a first surface and a second surface opposite the first surface. The comprising thermal interface material includes a plurality of carbon nanofibers (CNFs), wherein a majority of the CNFs are oriented orthogonal to a plane of the first surface. The apparatus includes the thermal interface material, and a first object having a third surface; and a second object having a fourth surface; wherein the thermal interface material is sandwiched between the third surface and the fourth surface. |
| US09096783B2 |
Activated pH control for protein glues
A glue composition can include: one or more glue proteins selected to undergo a conformational change responsive to a pH change; and one or more pH components selected to change the pH of the one or more glue proteins in response to a change in one or more conditions. The glue can be prepared by: providing one or more glue proteins selected to undergo a conformational change in response to a pH change; and combining the glue proteins with one or more pH components selected to change the pH of the one or more glue proteins in response to a change in one or more conditions. |
| US09096779B2 |
Conductive transparent adhesive composition and adhesive prepared by using the same
An electroconductive transparent adhesive composition containing a transparent adhesive monomer, any one electroconductive mesoporous filler selected from the group consisting of porous carbon, an electroconductive polymer and combinations thereof, and a polymerization initiator, and an electroconductive transparent adhesive produced using the composition are provided. The electroconductive transparent adhesive composition is less expensive and highly economically efficient, and has excellent electrical conductivity and transparency, and has excellent mechanical strength. Thus, the electroconductive transparent adhesive composition can be used in a variety of electrical and electronic applications such as touch screens, displays, and electronic devices. |
| US09096777B2 |
Composite and method for the production thereof
A composite is provided that has a structured sol-gel layer on a substrate. The sol-gel layer is extremely resistant against mechanical stress and other influences from outside due to its production method. The composite is suitable for use in a lot of technical fields, since the sol-gel layer can be provided with nearly any arbitrary structure. For example, the structure may result in optical effects and may be used in optical systems. |
| US09096776B2 |
Silicone release coating composition of condensation reaction curing type
Disclosed herein is a silicone release coating composition of condensation reaction curing type including: (A) an organopolysiloxane having at least two silanol groups in one molecule; (B) (B-1) an organohydrogenpolysiloxane having at least three SiH groups in one molecule, and/or (B-2) an organopolysiloxane having at least three hydrolyzable groups directly bonded to a silicon atom in one molecule; (C) a compound of metal selected from Mg, Al, Ti, Cr, Fe, Co, Ni, Cu, Zn, Zr, W, and Bi, which functions as a condensation reaction catalyst; and (D) (D-1) a cocatalyst of an organic compound having a bond between a nitrogen atom and an oxygen atom and/or a bond between a nitrogen atom and a sulfur atom through 1 to 3 carbon atoms, or (D-2) a cocatalyst of an organic compound functioning as an oxygen multidentate ligand. |
| US09096770B2 |
Inkjet recording ink set, ink cartridge, inkjet recording device, inkjet recording method, and image formed matter
To provide an inkjet recording ink set, which contains a cyan ink, magenta ink, yellow ink, and black ink, wherein each ink contains at least a pigment, a surfactant, water, water-soluble organic solvent, and anionic self-emulsifying ether-based polyurethane, wherein each ink contains, as the pigment, a combination of a (i) pigment dispersion liquid, in which the pigment is dispersed in water with assistance of the surfactant, and a (ii) resinous polymer-coated pigment dispersion liquid, in which the pigment is coated with a resinous polymer and dispersed in water, and wherein the (i) pigment dispersion liquid and the (ii) resinous polymer-coated pigment dispersion liquid satisfy the following formula: |A−B|≦30 nm where A is the average particle diameter (D50) of the dispersed pigment in the (i) pigment dispersion liquid, and B is the average particle diameter (D50) of the dispersed resinous polymer-coated pigment in the (ii) pigment dispersion liquid. |
| US09096766B2 |
Method for forming a polymer film on a surface that conducts or semiconducts electricity by means of electrografting, surfaces obtained, and applications thereof
The invention relates to a method for forming a polymer film on a surface that conducts or semiconducts electricity by means of electrografting. Said method uses an electrolytic solution containing a selected quantity of Bronsted acid. This invention also relates to the electrically conductive or semiconductive surfaces obtained by means of said method. |
| US09096765B2 |
Architectural paint for covering defects
An architectural paint is disclosed which comprises a film-forming binder polymer, cotton fibers, and glass bubbles. The paint, in some embodiments, is capable of covering defects in a wall surface. |
| US09096763B2 |
Aqueous slurry for the production of thermal and environmental barrier coatings and processes for making and applying the same
An improved slurry formulation for the production of a thermal and environmental barrier coatings are provided which can withstand high temperature applications. The slurry includes a combination of a coarse ceramic powder fraction having close porosity particles and a fine ceramic powder fraction. The combination of the two powders produces a bimodal particle size distribution having a controlled amount of closed porosity that imparts desirable properties to the coating produced. The finer solid particles are interdispersed within an aqueous binder to produce a ceramic matrix with sufficient mechanical strength. The closed porosity containing coarse particles are embedded within the resultant ceramic matrix and do not disintegrate under high temperature conditions to impart a temperature resistant, non-collapsing closed porosity to the coating which can also act as an environmental barrier. |
| US09096762B2 |
Method for surface treatment of inorganic pigment particles
The invention relates to a method for the surface treatment of inorganic pigment particles with agglomerates of fine primary particles or single crystals of inorganic compounds, particularly of oxides or sulphates. The method is characterized in that the inorganic compounds are first precipitated from an aqueous solution under suitable pH conditions in a separate vessel in the form of fluffily structured agglomerates and/or single crystals. The precipitation product is subsequently added to an aqueous suspension of inorganic pigment particles. The method is particularly suitable for the surface treatment of titanium dioxide particles, in order to achieve high hiding power or high opacity when used in emulsion paints or laminates. |
| US09096757B2 |
Biodegradable polymer composite material
The present invention relates to a biodegradable polymer composite material, and more particularly, to a technique for providing a polymer composite material comprising an acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene (ABS) resin and a biodegradable resin, wherein said polymer composite material has superior impact resistance. |
| US09096756B2 |
Process for obtaining low free monomer levels in a block copolymer emulsion prepared with (reverse) iodine transfer polymerisation
A process for obtaining an aqueous emulsion comprising a block copolymer by the solution polymerisation of vinyl monomers to obtain block [B] in the presence of a) a radical precursor; and b) an iodine atom containing block [A]; where block [A] and [B] together comprise 0 to 2 wt % of methacrylic acid; where block [A] and block [B] together comprise ≧2.5 wt % of vinyl monomers bearing ionic or potentially ionic water-dispersing groups not including methacrylic acid; and performing a post polymerisation reaction on the block copolymer emulsion obtained in step II; and wherein said aqueous emulsion has a free vinyl monomer level <1000 ppm when having a solids content of ≧20 wt %. |
| US09096754B2 |
Golf ball composition and golf ball
The invention provides a golf ball composition containing an ionomer resin composition of: (A) one or more ionomer selected from the group consisting of an olefin-unsaturated carboxylic acid random copolymer and/o2r an olefin-unsaturated carboxylic acid-unsaturated carboxylic acid ester random copolymer, and a metal ion neutralization product of an olefin-unsaturated carboxylic acid random copolymer and/or a metal ion neutralization product of an olefin-unsaturated carboxylic acid-unsaturated carboxylic acid ester random copolymer; (B) a polyethylene; and (C) an organic peroxide. |
| US09096752B2 |
Heterophasic system with improved surface properties
The present invention relates to a polyolefin composition comprising a heterophasic propylene copolymer having a MFR2 of at least 5 g/10 min and a polyethylene (PE) having a density of at least 935 kg/m3 and a melt flow rate MFR5 (190° C.) of less than 1.5 g/10 min.5 |
| US09096750B2 |
Fiber-reinforced resin composition
A fiber-reinforced resin composition which is capable of providing a light-weight molded article that has a high mechanical strength. The fiber-reinforced resin composition contains (A) a thermoplastic resin and (B) resin-impregnated filament bundles containing rayon fibers. The rayon fibers of the component (B) have a fiber diameter of 5-30 μm and an X-ray orientation degree of 86% or more. The resin-impregnated filament bundles are obtained by: tying 2,000-30,000 rayon fibers of the component (B) lined up in the longitudinal direction together in a bundle; integrating the bundle of the rayon fibers by impregnating the bundle with the thermoplastic resin of the component (A) in a molten state; and then cutting the integrated bundle into pieces 3-30 mm long. |
| US09096747B2 |
Isotactic polypropylene nucleation
Low molecular weight semicrystalline propylene-alpha olefin copolymers containing propylene crystallinity are used as a nucleating agent in crystalline polypropylene and polypropylene copolymers. The nucleating copolymers are propylene-alpha olefin copolymers having a percent crystallinity of 5-75%, a melting point of 45° C.-105° C., and an MFR between 300 and 5000 g/10 min. Nucleated polypropylene compositions comprise a nucleating amount of the copolymer blended in a matrix of polypropylene homopolymer, or 0.01 to 9 wt % α-olefin copolymer, having a melting point greater than 110° C. The nucleating copolymer improves processing time with little or no effect on the crystallinity-associated characteristics of the matrix. The invention also provides methods of crystallizing polypropylene with the nucleating agent and of forming articles with the composition, and also provides articles formed from the composition and/or by the method. |
| US09096745B2 |
Polyethylene blend compositions and film
A polymer blend comprising first and second polyethylene copolymers is presented which has good processability, and which when made into film shows good toughness-stiffness balance, reasonable MD tear, as well as good optical properties. |
| US09096740B2 |
Elastomeric compositions comprising fluorinated additives and use thereof for the manufacture of drive belts
The invention relates to an elastomeric composition comprising a branched polymer obtained from a polymer selected from the group consisting of NBR, HNBR, XHNBR, EP(D)M, and maleized EPDM and from a compound adapted to form a bond at a bond of the polymer to form a side chain. This compound comprises a group Y comprising a perfluoroalkyl functional group and a functional group adapted to react with the double bond. Preferably, Y=F(CF2CF2)m/wherein m is in the range between 2 and 20; R is selected from the group consisting of a double bond C═C, a triple bond C≡C, a functional alcoholic, carboxylic, esteric, acrylic, methacrylic group. The invention also relates to the use of a composition as a body compound for a drive belt and to the use thereof in an oil bath. |
| US09096739B2 |
Cellulose acetate film
Provided is a cellulose acetate film used for optical compensation and, in particular, a cellulose acetate film having a low retardation value Rth in the film thickness direction. |