最新美国发明专利
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US09104531B1 Multi-core device with multi-bank memory
Some of the embodiments of the present disclosure provide a multi-core switch device comprising a plurality of P processing cores for processing packets received from a computer network; a memory comprising a plurality of M memory banks, the plurality of processing cores and the plurality of memory banks being arranged such that the plurality of processing cores have access to multiple memory banks among the plurality of memory banks to perform corresponding memory operations; and a memory access controller coupling the plurality of processing cores to the plurality of memory banks, the memory access controller configured to selectively provide, to each of the plurality of processing cores, access to multiple memory banks among the plurality of memory banks over a number of N physical couplings such that N (i) is an integer and (ii) is less than P times M.
US09104530B2 Method for estimating the initial temperature of a mechanical member of a vehicle at the start-up of the vehicle
A system estimating temperature of a mechanical member of a vehicle once the vehicle has stopped, including: a temperature sensor of a first element of the vehicle, for example a fluid tank; a mechanism estimating air temperature outside the vehicle; a first module estimating temperature of the member when the vehicle is moving; a mechanism storing, while the vehicle is stopped, an outside air temperature, a temperature of the first element, and a temperature of the member; a second module to calculate how long the vehicle has been stopped according to the outside air temperature, the stored temperature of the first element, and the measured temperature of the first element; and a third module to calculate thermal history of temperature variation of the member while the vehicle is stopped, according to the outside air temperature, the stored temperature of the member, and the stoppage time of the vehicle.
US09104529B1 System and method for copying a cache system
A method, computer program product, and computing system for copying a cache system from a first machine to a second machine, wherein the cache system includes cache content and a content directory, thus generating a duplicate cache system on the second machine. The duplicate cache system includes duplicate cache content and a duplicate content directory. A plurality of data requests concerning a plurality of data actions to be taken on a data array associated with the first machine are received on the first machine. The plurality of data requests are stored on a tracking queue included within the data array associated with the first machine.
US09104526B2 Transaction splitting apparatus and method
A transaction splitting apparatus and method are provided in which neighboring sub-transactions accessing a predetermined bank in each memory may access different banks. The transaction splitting apparatus includes a first processing unit to split a transaction into at least one sub-transaction, the transaction accessing a first bank among a plurality of banks comprised in a memory, and a second processing unit to translate an address of the at least one sub-transaction, to interleave the at least one sub-transaction using the plurality of banks.
US09104525B2 API usage pattern mining
Techniques for mining API method usage patterns from source code are described. These techniques include parsing the source code to generate API method call sequences that include an API method. These call sequences are clustered to obtain clusters. Based on the clusters, frequent closed sequences are determined and then clustered to obtain an API usage pattern. In addition, optimal clustering parameters may also be determined. In some instances, a graphical representation is generated based on the API usage pattern in response to a query associated with the API method.
US09104521B2 System and method for remote device application upgrades
A method and system for remotely upgrading a remote device may be used to upgrade application programs in devices that are difficult to access physically, such as undersea optical devices in an optical communication system. The method and system uses a Non-Erasable Application (NEA) to manage the upgrade of an application program, to determine if the application program is valid, and to provide default application functions if the application program is not valid. The NEA may be stored on a memory that is not remotely erasable and the application program may be stored on a memory that is non-volatile and programmable. Code status indicators may be used to indicate if the application program is valid, for example, to indicate that the code is present and functional.
US09104519B1 Provisioning partner aware apps on sandboxed operating systems
A mobile app is provisioned with an identifier of a specific partner of an app provider, on a sandboxed OS on a mobile device. A link to the app provider's website containing the partner ID is received from the partner's website. The user navigates to the provider's website, which writes a cookie containing the partner ID and redirects to an app store. The app is downloaded to the mobile device, and registers itself with the OS as a protocol handler for a provider specific protocol. The app launches the provider's website, which retrieves the partner ID from the cookie, and returns a redirect to the provider specific protocol. The redirect contains the partner ID, and causes the app to execute as the registered protocol handler for the provider specific protocol. The app reads the partner ID from the redirect, and uses it to provide partner specific features.
US09104516B2 Methods and systems for deploying software applications
A method for assembling a plurality of software modules for executing at least one task is described. The method includes selecting at least one software module from a plurality of available software modules, the one or more software modules selected based on at least one task to be performed, if more than one software module is selected, then configuring the selected software modules to function together in a manner to perform the at least one task to be performed, and generating a cyber package including the at least one software module, the cyber package conforming to a pre-defined protocol.
US09104514B2 Automated deployment of applications with tenant-isolation requirements
An embodiment of the invention provides a method for multi-tenant enabling a service, where the service includes a plurality of service components. Rules are received from a provider of the service, wherein the rules include rules for isolating the service components and rules for sharing the service components. The service components are matched with virtualization environments and/or physical environments based on the rules. The virtualization environments include at least one isolation container and/or at least one shared container. The service components are stored in the virtualization environments and/or the physical environments based on the matching. The service components are mapped to the at least one isolation container of the virtualization environments, the at least one shared container of the virtualization environments, and/or the physical environments based on the storing of the service components.
US09104513B1 Managing quiesce requests in a multi-processor environment
Embodiments relate to managing quiesce requests in a multi-processor system. Aspects of the embodiments include receiving a quiesce request at a quiesce controller from a requesting processor, the requesting processor being one of a plurality of processors in a multi-processor system, and determining that the quiesce request is not accepted by the quiesce controller. Aspects also include, based on the quiesce request being not accepted by the quiesce controller, generating a reject message configured to indicate that the quiesce request has been rejected, holding the reject message until a quiesce command is broadcast to the multi-processor system, the quiesce command based on a different quiesce request, and sending the reject message to the requesting processor based on the broadcast of the quiesce command being detected by the quiesce controller.
US09104511B2 Method and computation node for processing application data
The present invention provides a method and a computation node for processing application data. The method includes: starting, by an operating system, a service process; establishing, by the operating system, a socket connection between the service process and backup software, where the service process has a root operation right, and the service process and the backup software have the same user identifier; sending, by the backup software through the socket, a processing request for application data; receiving, by the service process through the socket, the processing request for application data, where the processing request is sent by the backup software, sending the processing request for application data to corresponding application software, receiving application data returned by the corresponding application software, and sending the returned application data to the backup software through the socket.
US09104510B1 Multi-function floating point unit
Arithmetic units and methods for floating point processing are provided. In exemplary embodiments, data paths to and from multiple multipliers and adders are flexibly combined through crossbars and alignment units to allow a wide range of mathematical operations, including affine and SIMD operations. The micro-architecture for a high-performance flexible vector floating point arithmetic unit is provided, which can perform a single-cycle throughput complex multiply-and-accumulate operation, as well as a Fast Fourier Transform (radix-2 decimation-in-time) Butterfly operation.
US09104507B2 Developer platform
The invention is a novel developer platform that facilitates software application development, by consolidating common programming tasks into independently usable functional objects. It is emphasized that this abstract is provided to comply with the rules requiring an abstract that will allow a searcher or other reader to quickly ascertain the subject matter of the technical disclosure. It is submitted with the understanding that it will not be used to interpret or limit the scope or meaning of the claims. 37 CFR 1.72(b).
US09104506B2 Assembly and deployment of multi-platform flow-based applications
A method and computer program product for assembling and deploying multi-platform flow based applications. An information processing flow that produces a result is assembled, the information processing flow includes components connected by data links, a component includes software code that describes at least one of an input constraint or an output constraint of the component, and at least two of the components are deployable on different computing platforms. The information processing flow is partitioned into sub-flows, such that for each sub-flow every component in the sub-flow is deployable on the same computing platform. The sub-flows are deployed on their respective computing platforms.
US09104501B2 Preparing parallel tasks to use a synchronization register
A job may be divided into multiple tasks that may execute in parallel on one or more compute nodes. The tasks executing on the same compute node may be coordinated using barrier synchronization. However, to perform barrier synchronization, the tasks use (or attach) to a barrier synchronization register which establishes a common checkpoint for each of the tasks. A leader task may use a shared memory region to publish to follower tasks the location of the barrier synchronization register—i.e., a barrier synchronization register ID. The follower tasks may then monitor the shared memory to determine the barrier synchronization register ID. The leader task may also use a count to ensure all the tasks attach to the BSR. This advantageously avoids any task-to-task communication which may reduce overhead and improve performance.
US09104498B2 Maximizing server utilization within a datacenter
A method of maximizing server utilization within a datacenter comprising collocating a number of workloads to a subset of a number of physical servers within a datacenter, adjusting access to resources by critical and non-critical workloads, isolating a number of critical workloads that share resources to the subset of resource instances, and controlling resource utilization of the collocated workloads. A system for collocating workloads in a datacenter, the system comprising a number of servers communicatively coupled to each other and a collocation module that receives information from each server and decides whether to leave a workload running on one of any of the servers on that server, or migrate a workload running on one of the number of servers to another server.
US09104494B2 Virtual computer system and its optimization method
Optimization of resource allocation in a virtual computer system is efficiently performed according to a method consistent with a virtualization design concept. The virtual computer system includes a plurality of virtual devices that share the physical resources of a computer and execute an application, a virtualization section that manages the plurality of virtual devices, and a management section that controls the virtualization section. The plurality of virtual devices set allocation of physical resources to the applications by a first optimization calculation using resource supply information from the management section and transmit resource request information corresponding to the resource allocation setting to the management section. The management section sets allocation of the physical resources to the virtual devices by a second optimization calculation using the resource request information from the plurality of virtual devices and transmits resource supply information corresponding to the resource allocation setting to the plurality of virtual devices. While the resource supply information and the resource request information are exchanged between the plurality of virtual devices and the management section, the first and second optimization calculations are performed, thereby dynamically allocating the physical resources.
US09104488B2 Support server for redirecting task results to a wake-up server
Various exemplary embodiments relate to a method and related network node including one or more of the following: receiving, at a wake-up server, an indication that an agent device will be suspended, including at least one criterion for reestablishing the agent device; determining that the at least one criterion has been met; and, in response, reestablishing the agent device. Various exemplary embodiments relate to a method and related network node including one or more of the following: transmitting, by an agent device to a support server, a request message; transmitting, to a wake-up server, an indication that resources associated with the agent device will be released, including at least one criterion for reestablishing the agent device; transmitting, to the support server, an instruction to transmit a result message associated with the request message to the wake-up device; and releasing the system resources associated with the agent device.
US09104485B1 CPU sharing techniques
Architectures and techniques for substantially maintaining performance of hyperthreads within processing cores of processors. One technique can include determining that at least one of two or more hyperthreads has entered an idle state. The technique can further include executing an idle workload loop that comprises a set of instructions that substantially simulates execution of the one of the two or more hyperthreads that has entered the idle state.
US09104479B2 Apparatus and method for rounding a floating-point value to an integral floating-point value
Processing circuitry is provided to perform an operation FRINT for rounding a floating-point value to an integral floating-point value. Control circuitry controls the processing circuitry to perform the FRINT operation in response to an FRINT instruction. The processing circuitry includes shifting circuitry for generating a rounding value by shifting a base value, adding circuitry for adding the rounding value to the significand of the floating-point value to generate a sum value, mask generating circuitry for generating a mask for clearing fractional-valued bits of the sum value, and masking circuitry for applying the mask to the sum value to generate the integral floating-point value.
US09104471B2 Transaction log management
A transaction processing system comprising a transaction log, a log management policy, a profile and a log manager, and method for managing the transaction log are provided. The method comprises maintaining a transaction log of recoverable changes made by transaction processing tasks, each task having an associated transaction type; storing a log management policy including at least one log threshold and a plurality of possible actions associated therewith; and storing a profile of log resource usage characteristics of tasks for different types of transactions. Usage of the log by transaction processing tasks is monitored to determine when a log threshold is reached. The profile indicates the normal logging behavior of particular types of transaction by identifying ranges of acceptable values for a plurality of log resource usage characteristics. Such characteristics may include time taken for a task to complete, CPU resource consumed, number of log records made, etc. From a comparison of the profile behavior with the current log resource usage of a task which has been identified as holding up trimming of the log, likelihood that the identified task having entered an invalid loop and represents a ‘bad’ program, rather than simply validly taking a long time to complete can be inferred. Thus the most appropriate action can be selected and taken.
US09104470B2 Task processor
A task processor includes a CPU, a save circuit, and a task control circuit. A task control circuit is provided with a task selection circuit and state storage units associated with respective tasks. When executing a predetermined system call instruction, the CPU notifies the task control circuit accordingly. When informed of the execution of a system call instruction, the task control circuit selects a task to be subsequently executed in accordance with an output from the selection circuit. When an interrupt circuit receives a high-speed interrupt request signal, the task switching circuit controls the state transition of a task by executing an interrupt handling instruction designated by the interrupt circuit.
US09104469B2 Suspend-resume of virtual machines using de-duplication
A technique for data de-duplication is applied to suspend and resume operations for virtual machines (VMs) to reduce the time needed to suspend or resume a virtual machine and store the suspended VMs in a space-efficient and time-efficient manner. A VM's state is serialized and written to disk in the form of key values that are used to retrieve data from a key-data map. The key-data map stores unique data blocks for suspended VM images. The key-data map can be stored in a solid-state drive to further reduce latency and access time.
US09104467B2 Utilizing eye tracking to reduce power consumption involved in measuring affective response
Systems and methods that enable a reduction of the power consumption involved in measuring a user's affective response to content. The reduction in power consumption is achieved by utilizing eye tracking to determine when a user is paying attention to content, and accordingly setting a mode of operation of a device that measures the user. Thus, by using different modes of operation, which are characterized by different energy consumption rates, the total power consumption of the device may be reduced, without loss of relevant measurements.
US09104464B2 Main processor support of tasks performed in memory
According to one embodiment of the present invention, a method for operating a computer system including a main processor, a processing element and memory is provided. The method includes receiving, at the processing element, a task from the main processor, performing, by the processing element, an instruction specified by the task, determining, by the processing element, that a function is to be executed on the main processor, the function being part of the task, sending, by the processing element, a request to the main processor for execution, the request comprising execution of the function and receiving, at the processing element, an indication that the main processor has completed execution of the function specified by the request.
US09104459B2 Memory change tracking during migration of virtual machine (VM) with VM-controlled assigned peripherals
A mechanism for memory change tracking during migration of a virtual machine (VM) with VM-controlled assigned peripherals is disclosed. A method of the invention includes informing a write tracking module of an interest by a hypervisor of a host machine in a specific memory location associated with a peripheral device that is controlled by a VM managed by the hypervisor, receiving notification from the write tracking module that the identified specific memory location has been modified by the peripheral device, and marking a memory page of the specific identified memory location as dirty in order for the migration of the memory page to be repeated as part of a migration process of the VM to a destination host machine.
US09104458B1 Managing virtual computing nodes using isolation and migration techniques
Systems and method for the management of virtual machine instances are provided. A network data transmission analysis system can use contextual information in the execution of virtual machine instances to isolate and migrate virtual machine instances onto physical computing devices. The contextual information may include information obtained in observing the execution of virtual machines instances, information obtained from requests submitted by users, such as system administrators. Still further, the network data transmission analysis system can also include information collection and retention for identified virtual machine instances.
US09104457B2 Virtual machine-to-image affinity on a physical server
Systems and articles of manufacture for improving virtual machine-to-image affinity on a physical server include identifying physical machines in a network as candidate source physical machines, wherein each candidate source physical machine stores a first virtual machine image and a set of additional virtual machine images, identifying physical machines in the network as candidate target physical machines, wherein each candidate target physical machine stores one of the additional virtual machine images, and selecting a virtual machine image from the set of additional virtual machine images and selecting a physical machine from the candidate target physical machines such that migrating the selected virtual machine image from a candidate source physical machine to the selected target physical machine results in a maximized image affinity per virtual machine in comparison to each image migration scenarios for the set of additional virtual machine images.
US09104455B2 Virtual machine-to-image affinity on a physical server
Techniques for improving virtual machine-to-image affinity on a physical server. A method includes identifying physical machines in a network as candidate source physical machines, wherein each candidate source physical machine stores a first virtual machine image and a set of additional virtual machine images, identifying physical machines in the network as candidate target physical machines, wherein each candidate target physical machine stores one of the additional virtual machine images, and selecting a virtual machine image from the set of additional virtual machine images and selecting a physical machine from the candidate target physical machines such that migrating the selected virtual machine image from a candidate source physical machine to the selected target physical machine results in a maximized image affinity per virtual machine in comparison to each image migration scenarios for the set of additional virtual machine images.
US09104453B2 Determining placement fitness for partitions under a hypervisor
A technique for determining placement fitness for partitions under a hypervisor in a host computing system having non-uniform memory access (NUMA) nodes. In an embodiment, a partition resource specification is received from a partition score requester. The partition resource specification identifies a set of computing resources needed for a virtual machine partition to be created by a hypervisor in the host computing system. Resource availability within the NUMA nodes of the host computing system is assessed to determine possible partition placement options. A partition fitness score of a most suitable one of the partition placement options is calculated. The partition fitness score is reported to the partition score requester.
US09104452B2 Hybrid remote sessions
High Fidelity remoting can be enabled by loading a hybrid remote session in a computer system. The hybrid remote session can include components loaded in a console session and components loaded in a remote session.
US09104451B2 Dynamic communication between script and execution layers
A method of dynamically communicating a parameter during runtime may include providing a script to a command-line scripting module that uses the parameter, where the parameter is to be provided during runtime by a user and the script is configured to generate an exception including an identifier associated with the parameter. The method may also include generating byte code based on the script, executing the byte code on a virtual machine until the exception is generated, passing the exception to the command-line scripting module, causing, by the command-line scripting module, receiving a parameter value from the user through an input device, passing the parameter value to the virtual machine, and continuing execution of the byte code on the virtual machine.
US09104449B2 Optimized execution of dynamic languages
Program code in a dynamic language is executed through a dynamic execution module that includes an execution context and an execution codebase. The instructions of the program code are translated into machine code that is stored in the execution codebase, and the execution context tracks the runtime state and persistent state of the program through executions and across executions. Using the execution codebase and the execution context the dynamic execution module minimizes duplicative machine code generation, while preserving the dynamic aspects of the program.
US09104446B2 Broadcast receiving apparatus which performs start-up processing using software data confirmed to be initial-state software data by comparing versions in storage devices
An apparatus using a software start-up method, selects execution-targeted software data to be used for starting execution of the start-up processing, out of software data stored in a first storage device; starts the execution of the start-up processing by using the execution-targeted software data; searches for another software data other than the execution-targeted software data, from software data stored in the first storage device; determines whether the another software data is changed from its initial-state; and, if the another software data is changed, selects initial-state software data as the initial state of the another software data from said at least one software data stored in a second storage device, reads the initial-state software data from the second storage device, and replaces the another software data stored in the first storage device with the read initial-state software data by overwriting.
US09104444B2 Mobile application configuration
A user device receives a mobile application that defines multiple environments associated with the mobile application and launches the mobile application. After the launching the mobile application, the user device retrieves an environment selector value for the mobile application and initializes the mobile application with configuration data for a particular environment of the multiple environments. The particular environment is selected from the multiple environments based on the environment selector value.
US09104443B2 Control software with programmable arrays that are configurable for vehicles having different propulsion system configurations
A method is provided for creating custom control software for a particular propulsion system configuration. Generic control software is provided that is configurable for use with a plurality of different propulsion system configurations. The generic control software is generically designed to control each of the different propulsion systems regardless of their different propulsion system configurations. The generic control software comprises a plurality of programmable arrays (or configuration tables). Information that characterizes a particular propulsion system configuration of the plurality of different propulsion system configurations is input into the programmable arrays to configure the generic control software into custom control software that is customized for use and designed to operate with the particular propulsion system configuration. The generic control software is configured into the custom control software that is applicable to and customized for use with the particular propulsion system configuration only after being programmed with the information that characterizes the particular propulsion system configuration.
US09104441B2 Context and application aware selectors
The middleware presented herein maps a plurality of application user interfaces to a single user experience (i.e. user interface) so that a user is more comfortable with how information is presented. The middleware maps key elements of an original user interface into a standard user interface on a user's device. When a user interface is mapped, information or data is taken from the original user interface and is reconfigured to create the standard user interface displayed to the user. In embodiments, the middleware receives data associated with a user interface for an application, interprets the received data, parses the data, translates the parsed data by determining the correct template map and mapping the parsed data to a standard user interface, and configures the standard user interface with the translated data.
US09104439B2 Providing context-aware input data
External constraints with respect to at least one input field of at least one application are generated. Context-aware input data is provided to at least one input field of a currently used application, based on the external constraints.
US09104436B1 Compile directives for memory management
An address validation/relocation storage class provides a mechanism for application software to selectively control the virtual memory addresses used by the compiler generated machine code. Applications can use the address validation/relocation storage class to validate memory addresses and/or relocate data between memory tiers. A persistent memory storage class provides a mechanism for application software to selectively persist static data.
US09104433B2 Trace generation method, trace generation device, trace generation program product, and multi-level compilation using trace generation method
A trace generation device including a directed graph generator configured to generate a directed graph in accordance with execution of compiled traces whose maximum length is limited to a certain length or shorter and that have been generated at a low optimization level, the directed graph representing transitions of execution between the compiled traces; a directed graph updater configured to traverse edges in the directed graph backward from a start point in timer-based sampling, the start point being a node corresponding to a trace in which a timer tick has occurred, and configured to increment a recompilation counter of a trace that the backward traversal has reached when stopping in front of a cyclic trace or at a trace not having any further edge; and a generator configured to determine the head of a corresponding trace as a head of a new trace.
US09104431B2 Deployment of a software image on multiple targets with streaming technique
Deploying a software image from a source data-processing system on target data-processing entities of a target data-processing system, the software image including memory blocks being individually accessible, with a predefined subset of the memory blocks defining a bootstrap module. The deploying includes downloading the bootstrap module onto a main one of the target data-processing entities from the source data-processing system, booting the main target data-processing entity from the bootstrap module thereby loading a streaming driver in the bootstrap module, and serving each request of accessing a selected memory block of the software image on the main data-processing entity by the streaming driver.
US09104425B2 Apparatus and method for handling exception events
Processing circuitry 4 has a plurality of exception states EL0-EL3 for handling exception events, the exception states including a base level exception state EL0 and at least one further level exception state EL1-EL3. Each exception state has a corresponding stack pointer indicating the location within the memory of a corresponding stack data store 35. When the processing circuitry is in the base level exception state EL0, stack pointer selection circuitry 40 selects the base level stack pointer as a current stack pointer indicating a current stack data store for use by the processing circuitry 4. When the processing circuitry 4 is a further exception state, the stack pointer selection circuitry 40 selects either the base level stack pointer or the further level stack pointer corresponding to the current further level exception state as a current stack pointer.
US09104423B2 Method and system for advance wakeup from low-power sleep states
A system and method for power management by providing advance notice of events. The method includes snooping a register of an operating system timer to determine a timer period associated with a scheduled event. A unit of a computer system is identified that is in a low power state. A wake up latency of the unit is determined that is based on the low power state. An advance period is determined based on the wake up latency. An advance notice of the operating system timer is triggered based on the timer period and the advance period to wake up the unit.
US09104422B2 Image processing apparatus and method of image processing
An image processing apparatus included in a system including another image processing apparatus, and configured to transition to a first and a second electric power saving mode when functioning as a main apparatus and a slave apparatus, respectively, in the system where the second electric power saving mode is lower than that of the first electric power saving mode, includes a function determining unit which determines whether the image processing apparatus is to function as the main apparatus or the slave apparatus based on a status of the other image processing apparatus which is obtained when the image processing apparatus is performing a job; and an instruction sending unit which sends an instruction to have the other image processing apparatus function as the slave apparatus or the main apparatus when the image processing apparatus is determined to function as the main apparatus or the slave apparatus, respectively.
US09104420B2 Image forming apparatus, microcontroller, and methods for controlling image forming apparatus and microcontroller
An image forming apparatus, a microcontroller, and methods for controlling the image forming apparatus and the microcontroller are provided. The microcontroller include: a memory controller which is connected to an external memory operating in a self-refresh mode if a normal mode changes to a low power mode and outputs a preset signal which is to cancel the self-refresh mode if the low power mode changes to the normal mode; a memory interface unit which transmits the preset signal to a main memory; and a signal detector which detects whether the preset signal has been output. Here, the memory controller powers off the memory interface unit if the normal mode changes to the low power mode and powers on the memory interface unit if the low power mode changes to the normal mode, and the output of the preset signal is detected by the signal detector.
US09104416B2 Autonomous microprocessor re-configurability via power gating pipelined execution units using dynamic profiling
In an embodiment, a functional unit control method includes, using a performance monitoring unit connected to a processor, collecting performance data of a first type of functional unit in an execution stage of the processor for each process running on a time multiplexed computing system running a multitasking operating system. The method further includes determining a utilization level of the first type of functional unit based on the performance data, and comparing the utilization level of the first type of functional unit with a first threshold. The method also includes, when a first condition has been satisfied, power gating at least one of the first type of functional unit in the processor. The method may include dynamically loading a specific needs register for each time quantum that a process runs on the processor.
US09104412B2 Mobile device offloading its task to a peer device when available power is below a threshold level
A system configured to manage battery energy of a mobile device includes a primary mobile device and at least one peer device. The primary mobile device includes a power unit, a main communication module to electrically communicate with a peer device, and a peer assisted module in electrical communication with the power unit and the main communication module. The peer assisted module determines an energy level of the energy unit, and determines a task to be executed by the peer device. The peer device receives the task transmitted from the primary mobile device. The peer device further includes a peer process management module that executes at least one computation that completes the task, and communicates a completed task to the primary mobile device.
US09104405B2 Managing server power consumption in a data center
Methods, system, and computer program products are provided for managing server power consumption in a data center. Embodiments include detecting, by a circuit monitoring interposer, a type of a power circuit that is currently coupled to the circuit monitoring interposer; determining a power capacity of the power circuit based on the type of the power circuit; receiving, by the circuit monitoring interposer, a power consumption server measurement from each server monitoring interposer of a plurality of server monitoring interposers, each power consumption server measurement corresponding to a server of the plurality of servers; determining a total power consumption of the power circuit in dependence upon a total of the power consumption server measurements; and determining whether the total power consumption exceeds the power capacity, and if the total power consumption of the power circuit exceeds the power capacity, instructing one or more servers to reduce their power consumption.
US09104403B2 Data processing system having selective redundancy and method therefor
A method includes: decoding an instruction a first time to obtain a first decoded instruction; decoding the instruction a second time to obtain a second decoded instruction; comparing at least a portion of the first decoded instruction to at least a portion of the second decoded instruction; and when the at least a portion of the first decoded instruction matches the at least a portion of the second decoded instruction, executing the instruction.
US09104397B2 Computer and data saving method
It is provided a computer comprising a nonvolatile memory for storing data, a control processor for controlling the saving of data into the nonvolatile memory, and a battery for supplying power to the computer in case of a failure of an external power supply, wherein the control processor checks a charge amount stored in the battery, calculates an amount of data which can be saved in the nonvolatile memory by the battery in case of a failure of the external power supply based on the checked charge amount, and saves data excluding the amount of data that can be saved, out of data which should be saved into the nonvolatile memory, into the nonvolatile memory in advance.
US09104396B2 Electronic apparatus, charging control device, and charging control method
According to one embodiment, an electronic apparatus performs a communication with a portable device detachably attached to a port of the apparatus. The apparatus supplies bus power to the portable device through the port. The apparatus includes a notification module configured to execute an operation of notifying the portable device whether the port is a first type port configured to supply a first charging current or a second type port configured to supply a second charging current higher than the first charging current. The apparatus controls, when a remaining level of a battery of the apparatus is lower than a threshold, an operation of the notification module such that the portable device recognizes the port as the first type port.
US09104392B1 Multitenant monitoring system storing monitoring data supporting flexible pivot querying
Monitoring data can be received and managed in a multi-tenant environment. Monitoring data can be received for multiple tenants. The received monitoring data can be sorted. Sorting can be performed based on various criteria, such as by tenant. The sorted monitoring data can be written to data files. Each data file can store monitoring data for a plurality of tenants. Receiving, sorting, and writing monitoring data can be performed within a multi-tenant monitoring system.
US09104383B2 Programmable controller component with assembly alignment features
A programmable logic controller (PLC) assembly includes a bottom housing with a base, a first plurality of elongate alignment features extending from the bottom housing transverse to the base, and a first connection feature. The PLC assembly includes a central processing unit with a circuit board and at least two receptacles therethrough configured to engage and slide along at least two of the first plurality of alignment features. The at least two of the first plurality of alignment features are positioned asymmetrically with respect to the base. The PLC assembly includes an upper housing with a second connection feature configured to slidably couple with the first connection feature and a second plurality of elongate alignment features configured to slidably engage at least two of the first plurality of alignment features, which are positioned asymmetrically with respect to the base.
US09104381B2 Biaxial hinge
To provide a biaxial hinge which enables an opening/closing movement of terminal, such as notebook PC, from 0° up to 180° or more, which ensures the opening/closing movement starting from a stable stopping position available at any opening/closing angle, a second hinge shaft attached to a second casing and a second hinge shaft attached to a second casing are connected to each other via a joint member and provided so as to be rotatable relative to each other, and a selective rotation restricting device is provided between the both hinge shafts. The selective rotation restricting device is so structured that it allows the both hinge shafts to rotate, when the first casing and the second casing are in a closed state, and it restricts one of the first hinge shaft and the second hinge shaft in rotation, when the other hinge shaft rotates relative to the one hinge shaft.
US09104379B2 Electronic apparatus
According to one embodiment, an electronic apparatus includes a first wall, a second wall, a moving portion, a flexible cable, and a first contact portion. The moving portion is located between the first wall and the second wall. The cable comprises a curving portion between the first wall and the second wall, a first portion brought into contact with the first wall, and a second portion brought into contact with the second wall. The first contact portion is provided on the first wall and is in contact with the first portion of the cable. The cable can slide more smoothly on the first contact portion than on the second wall.
US09104377B2 Retractor cord assemblies for carried articles
A low-profile retractable cord system in which a line is attached to a pair of retractor mechanisms located in the sides of an article to be carried (such as a briefcase, a purse, a handbag, suitcase, tote, bag, knapsack, sports bag, gym bag, etc.). The line is high-tensile braided line threaded out through eyelets which are offset inwardly and downwardly from the upper corners of the article to be carried. This way, the line and shoulder pad attached thereto lie flat along the carried article. Various retractor mechanisms are shown, including an opposed pair of coil-spring-biased reels, opposed independent pulley mechanisms, or a common pulley mechanism. An alternate embodiment employs a single retractor mechanism and line for a single loop-handle is also shown.
US09104363B2 Determining a high contrast display setting on a client device to process a web document
Described herein are processes and devices that determine a high contrast setting on a client. Some embodiments include creating an object in a web document, assigning a pre-determined color value to the object, associating the object to the web document, and generating a computed color display value for the object in response to the object being associated with the web document. Some embodiments are further directed to comparing the pre-determined color value to the computed color display value and generating a result based on the comparing of the pre-determined color value to the computed color display value, which result indicates whether the system is set to the high contrast setting. Some embodiments are further directed to storing the result in a variable; and sending the variable to a server to process additional web documents, using the variable, before the additional web documents are loaded onto the client device.
US09104355B2 Terminal apparatus and printer interacting to perform print functions using different communication schemes
A terminal apparatus may receive first information relating to a first function executing apparatus from the first function executing apparatus. The first function executing apparatus may be configured to execute a print function. The terminal apparatus may select, by using the first information, a particular communication scheme from among M1 items of communication schemes in a case where the first information is received. Each of the M1 items of communication schemes may be different from each other and may be a communication scheme available for the first function executing apparatus to receive print data. The terminal apparatus may send first print data to the first function executing apparatus in accordance with the particular communication scheme in a case where the particular communication scheme is selected from among the M1 items of communication schemes.
US09104354B2 Information processing apparatus, control method, and storage medium setting filter information for permitting communication with another information processing apparatus
When a rotation instruction is issued to replace MFP A by MFP B to be used, a management application of the MFP A obtains and stores network information of the MFP B, and exchanges setting value data of the MFP A with that of the MFP B. Further, if the network information of the MFP A is included in the exchanged setting value data, the management application of the MFP A changes the exchanged setting value data using the stored network information of the MFP B.
US09104350B2 Information processing apparatus, and printing control method for displaying screen for setting values
An information processing apparatus for setting a setting value for print data to be transmitted to a printer, includes a selection unit configured to select a purpose from a plurality of printing purposes, and a display unit configured to display a screen for setting the setting value for the print data including a variable setting item for setting a setting value from a plurality of setting values associated with the printing purpose selected by the selection unit, and a fixed wherein setting values for the variable setting item and the fixed setting item are set by using different setting ways on the displayed screen.
US09104344B2 Cumulative consumable usage in cloud-based printing services
In one example, a cloud-based printing service that calculates cumulative usage data of a consumable.
US09104342B2 Two stage checksummed raid storage model
A method for writing a logical data block to storage. The method includes receiving a request to write a logical data block to a storage pool, allocating a number of physical log blocks in a RAID log and a parity block for the logical data block, and writing the logical data block and the parity block to the physical log blocks. The number of the physical log blocks are less than a number of disks storing the RAID log. The method further includes allocating space in a physical slab block in a RAID slab for the logical data block, copying data including the logical data block to the space in the physical slab block, and updating, in the RAID slab, a checksum corresponding to the physical slab block and a parity block that includes the data stripe having the physical slab block based on the data copied.
US09104338B2 Network storage system, disk array device, host device, access control method, and data access method
A network storage includes at least one host device, a plurality of disk array devices, an address map that is stored in one of the plurality of disk array devices and indicates a correspondence relation between a logical address to view the plurality of disk array devices as one storage device and a physical address of each of the plurality of disk array devices, a management master that is included in the host device or one of the plurality of disk array devices, an address map storing location information that is stored in the management master and indicates the disk array device that stores the address map and an address on which the address map is stored in the disk array device, and a command management unit that is included in the management master and transmits the address map storing location information to the host device.
US09104337B2 Intercepting, transforming, and grouping data objects for storage
Systems capable of transformation of logical data objects for storage and methods of operating thereof are provided. One method includes identifying among a plurality of requests addressed to the storage device two or more “write” requests addressed to the same logical data object, deriving data chunks corresponding to identified “write” requests and transforming the derived data chunks, grouping the transformed data chunks in accordance with the order the requests have been received and in accordance with a predefined criteria, generating a grouped “write” request to the storage device, and providing mapping in a manner facilitating one-to-one relationship between the data in the obtained data chunks and the data to be read from the transformed logical object. The method further includes obtaining an acknowledging response from the storage device, multiplying the obtained acknowledging response, and sending respective acknowledgements to each source that initiated each respective “write” request.
US09104333B2 Dynamic enhancement of media experience
The present disclosure relates to a method for enhancement of media experience that comprises transmitting, by a first computing device, a data stream stored in a first storage region of the first computing device to an output device connected to the first computing device, providing, by a trigger module, a trigger that is linked to the data stream, detecting, by a detection module, the trigger while the data stream is being transmitted, and providing, by a content module, additional data in response to detecting the trigger. Furthermore, a system for enhancement of media experience is described.
US09104331B2 System and method for incremental virtual machine backup using storage system functionality
Techniques for virtual machine incremental backup are described herein. According to one embodiment, a request for an incremental backing up a virtual machine (VM) is received at a storage system, the request identifying a requested VM disk image associated with a consistent state of the VM. The storage system determines a difference between the requested VM disk image and a previous VM disk image representing a previous VM backup. The changes between the requested VM disk image and a previous VM disk image are then transmitted to a target backup storage system.
US09104316B2 Runtime dynamic performance skew elimination
For runtime dynamic performance skew elimination in a computer environment, an exemplary computer environment is configured for calculating a rank heats by utilizing a plurality of fine-grained statistics collected at an extent granularity, including considering bandwidth (BW) and input/outputs per second (IOPS) metrics. An adaptive data placement plan is generated to relocate the data.
US09104315B2 Systems and methods for a mass data storage system having a file-based interface to a host and a non-file-based interface to secondary storage
System and method for transferring data between a host system and a data storage system is provided. The system includes an interface that uses a file based protocol to transfer data between the data storage system and the host system, wherein the data storage system includes a first mass storage device and a second mass storage device; wherein the first mass storage device is a solid state non-volatile memory device and the second mass storage device is a non-solid state memory device. The first mass storage device is a flash memory device that operates as a primary storage device that stores data on a file by file basis. The second mass storage device is a magnetic disk drive that operates as secondary storage device and stores data received via a logical interface.
US09104314B2 Method and apparatus for performing calculations in character input mode of electronic device
A method and apparatus for performing calculations in a character input mode of an electronic device. Character input is received in the character input mode, and input characters are displayed in a character input window. If determined that an arithmetic expression is present in the displayed input characters, the arithmetic expression is evaluated, and an evaluation result is displayed. A calculation enabling condition may be satisfied prior to, or after, the arithmetic expression identification. The method may be applied to character input modes of a text messaging or email application, or of a word processing application.
US09104311B2 Slate computer with tactile home keys
Fingertip-sized discrete areas are provided on a slate computer and have different tactile characteristics than the remainder of the surface on which they are disposed. The discrete areas are arranged to mimic home keys of a keyboard and each discrete area corresponds to a respective home key. In this way, a user is given tactile feedback of when fingers are properly placed in the home position, with home key finger placement triggering the presentation of a full keyboard on screen. Other embodiments do not use tactilely distinct keys, with simultaneous placement of two or more fingers on the computer triggering display of the virtual keyboard.
US09104308B2 Multi-touch finger registration and its applications
Described herein are finger registration systems and methods for use with a multi-touch device that can facilitate in place execution of commands or operations, thereby reducing focus switching and minimizing hand movement. The finger registration methods are simple and robust, using only contact points on the touch-based device, without requiring additional hardware. Direct mapping of operations to gestures involving individual fingers or combination of fingers (e.g., finger chords), provides a new and rich set of direct manipulation without focus switching for selecting commands/operations.
US09104305B2 Controlling a cursor on a touch screen
In one embodiment, a method for controlling a cursor on a touch screen includes, in response to having entered a pointing mode, displaying the cursor on the touch screen; in response to a touch on the touch screen, calculating a movement velocity of a touch point of the touch; and controlling the movement of the cursor according to the movement velocity of the touch point; wherein at any moment in the pointing mode, an input area of the touch point is any area within the touch screen.
US09104304B2 Computer device with touch screen and method for operating the same
A method for operating a computer device incorporating a touch screen is provided. The method includes pre-defining a first pointing device command and a second pointing device command, which are not related to directional pointing control, in the computer device. In response to a first touch, the touch screen generates a first touch signal. The first pointing device invokes a command in response to the first touch signal. In response to a second touch different from the first touch, the touch screen generates a second touch signal. The second pointing device command is invokes in response to the second touch signal.
US09104302B2 Methods and systems for drag and drop content sharing in a multi-device environment
Methods and systems for interacting with graphical user interface elements to invoke commands and initiate requests in a multi-device environment are described. Content from a first set top box is received at a mobile computing device having a touchscreen. The touchscreen is then used by the user to drag-and-drop a first graphical user interface element representing the content to over a second graphical user interface element. This causes the content to be shared from the first set top box to a second set top box, the second set top box automatically initiating download of the content.
US09104294B2 Linked widgets
Systems, methods, computer-readable mediums, user interfaces and other implementations are disclosed for manually or automatically linking widgets. The automatic linking of widgets includes detecting a trigger event associated with a first widget, and providing access to a second widget in response to the trigger event. The trigger event can be the downloading, previewing, installation, launching, updating, operating or any other interaction with one or more widgets. The trigger event can also be the exercise of a function or feature of a widget. In some implementations, a communication path or channel is established between widgets for sharing information. In other implementations, linked widgets are provided access to shared information. A widget link manager can be used to manually establish links between widgets and to designate shared information, restrictions, etc.
US09104290B2 Method for controlling screen of mobile terminal
A method for controlling a screen of a mobile terminal that simultaneously displays a plurality of execution screens is provided. The method preferably includes: displaying a layout composed of a plurality of sections when a magazine creation event is sensed; mapping applications to the plurality of sections in a one-to-one correspondence, respectively to create a magazine; and displaying the magazine, and an execution screen of an application mapped to each of the sections is arranged at the magazine.
US09104289B2 Techniques and systems for supporting podcasting
Improved podcasts and techniques that facilitate their use are disclosed. The improved techniques can pertain to creating, publishing, hosting, accessing, subscribing, managing, transferring, and/or playing podcasts. According to one aspect, a client application can subscribe to podcasts and then automatically monitor the podcasts for updates to be downloaded. In the event that user interest in a podcast becomes inadequate, downloading of further updates can be restricted. According to another aspect, a podcast can be subscribed to through use of a portable subscription file. According to still another aspect, podcast feeds can be enhanced to include segment elements and other metadata.
US09104285B2 Haptic device with indirect haptic feedback
A haptic device provides an indirect haptic device, having a substrate having a touch surface, a position sensor and a friction modulator associated with the substrate, a control device connected to the position sensor and the friction modulator, wherein a coefficient of friction on the touch surface is modulated in response to a sensed position of relative to the touch surface and/or a derivative thereof.
US09104283B2 Capacitive detection device with arrangement of linking tracks, and method implementing such a device
A human-machine interface device is provided having a transparent detection zone and an access zone, and including a surface having electrodes made from a conductive transparent material in the detection zone, conductive connecting tracks arranged in the access zone and connected to the surface having electrodes, a first conductive surface in the transparent zone made from transparent material, and utilized as a guard for the surface having electrodes. The connecting tracks are arranged in a sandwich between a second and a third conductive surfaces utilized as second and third guards for these connecting tracks. Linking tracks are made from a transparent conductive material for linking the connecting tracks to electrodes of the surface having electrodes. The linking tracks are positioned between the electrodes when these linking tracks are situated on the detection surface; and positioned between the second and third guards when these linking tracks are in the access zone.
US09104281B2 Touch panel
A touch panel including sensing electrode sets, first pads, second pads, first conductive lines, second conductive lines and resistors is provided. Each sensing electrode set includes a first sensing electrode pattern and second sensing electrode patterns disposed beside the first sensing electrode pattern. The first conductive lines electrically connect the first sensing electrode pattern with the first pads respectively. The second conductive lines connect the second electrode patterns into multiple series. The second sensing electrode patterns of the same sensing electrode set belong to different series and two terminals of each series are connected to different second pads. Two terminals of each resistor are connected to the different second pads connected with the two terminals of the each series.
US09104279B2 Scan method for increasing frame rate of touch panel and touch panel device using the same
A scan method for increasing frame rate of a touch panel having multiple driving lines, multiple sensing lines and a scan cycle with multiple detection cycles, has steps of generating multiple sets of asynchronous excitation signals within each detection cycle with each set of excitation signals outputted to a corresponding driving line, and receiving capacitance sensing values from the sensing lines corresponding to the driving lines. In contrast to conventional scan methods only outputting one set of excitation signals within each detection cycle, the time required to scan entire driving lines is greatly reduced and the frame rate is increased. Additionally, as the multiple sets of asynchronous excitation signals are asynchronous, the interference to the capacitance sensing values sensed by the sensing circuit in response to the multiple sets of excitation signals won't occur.
US09104275B2 Mobile terminal to display an object on a perceived 3D space
A method may include displaying at least one first object on a perceived 3D space having at least a first layer and a second layer, wherein the first layer has a 3D level of a first depth and the second layer has a 3D level of a second depth, and wherein the at least one first object is arranged on the first layer. The method may also include receiving a user input for selecting one of the at least one first object while displaying the at least one first object, arranging at least one second object on the second layer when the 3D level of the second layer changes to the first depth, and displaying the at least one second object, wherein each of the at least one second object corresponds to a sub-menu of a menu corresponding to the selected first object.
US09104271B1 Gloved human-machine interface
Certain exemplary embodiments can provide a system, machine, device, manufacture, circuit, composition of matter, and/or user interface adapted for and/or resulting from, and/or a method and/or machine-readable medium comprising machine-implementable instructions for, activities that can comprise and/or relate to: tracking movement of a gloved hand of a human; interpreting a gloved finger movement of the human; and/or in response to interpreting the gloved finger movement, providing feedback to the human.
US09104268B2 Compact optical finger navigation system with illumination via redirection surface holes
An optical finger navigation device includes a navigation cover. The navigation cover includes a tracking surface and an illumination surface. The tracking surface exhibits a first light reflection characteristic in a presence of a navigation object at the tracking surface and a second light reflection characteristic in an absence of the navigation object at the tracking surface. A light source generates illumination directed toward the illumination surface of the navigation cover. A redirection structure is interposed between the light source and the illumination surface of the navigation cover. A reflection surface of the first redirection structure is approximately facing the illumination surface of the navigation cover. An illumination surface of the redirection structure is approximately facing the light source. The redirection structure defines at least one hole therethrough to pass light generated by the light source toward the illumination surface of the navigation cover.
US09104267B2 Capacitive multi-touch system and method of controlling the same
A capacitive multi-touch system includes a touch sensor pane, a front-end circuit, and a digital signal processor. The touch sensor panel generates a capacitance signal corresponding to a touch input. The front-end circuit converts the capacitance signal to a sensing channel signal. The digital signal processor receives a common voltage (VCOM) from a display device, calculates a noise interval of two neighboring noise peaks of the common voltage, and performs a noise filtering operation on the sensing channel signal using a noise filter path. The noise filter path is selected from a plurality of noise filter paths based on the noise interval.
US09104266B2 Signal processing circuit and signal processing system of touch screen
The present invention discloses a signal processing circuit and a signal processing system for processing an input signal provided from a touch screen in response to a driving signal.
US09104262B2 Methods for displaying and moving data and systems using the same
Methods for displaying and moving data and systems using the same are provided. First, a first movement of an object on or near a touch-sensitive display unit is detected, and in response to the first movement, data displayed in the touch-sensitive display unit is moved in a first direction. In response to an edge of the data being reached while the data is moving in the first direction and the object is still detected on or near the touch-sensitive display unit, the movement of the data is stopped. Then, a second movement of the object on or near the touch-sensitive display unit is detected, and in response to the second movement, an area beyond the edge of the data is displayed in the touch-sensitive display unit. In response to detecting that the second movement of the object is no longer on or near the touch-sensitive display unit, the data is moved in a second direction until the area beyond the edge of the data is no longer displayed in the touch-sensitive display unit.
US09104259B2 Liquid crystal display device with touch panel
A liquid crystal display device with a touch panel includes: pixel electrodes which is applied a electrical potential corresponding to a gradation value in respective pixels; common electrodes that are a plurality of electrodes which extend in one direction; a liquid crystal layer having a liquid crystal composition whose orientation is changed according to an electric field developed by the pixel electrodes and the common electrodes; and detection electrodes that are a plurality of electrodes which extend in another direction different from the one direction, and detect a touch position on the panel. The common electrodes include a first electrode which is applied a detection potential for detecting the touch position on the panel, and a second electrode to which a potential different from the detection potential is applied during a period in which the detection potential is applied.
US09104256B2 Touch screen shield
A shield that is attachable to a touch sensitive screen is disclosed. The shield may be attached to the touch sensitive screen only at its outer peripheral portion. An air gap is enclosed between the shield and the touch sensitive screen to form a planar air bearing. The shield preferably does not touch the active area of the touch sensitive screen when the user is not touching the shield but only viewing the touch sensitive screen through the shield. This mitigates unwanted optical artifacts such as trapped air bubbles, Newton rings and chromatic interference while maintaining the sensitivity of the touch sensitive screen.
US09104254B2 Touch screen panel
Disclosed is a touch screen panel for improving touch sensitivity, the screen panel comprising a first electrode in a first direction; and a second electrode, insulated from the first electrode, in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction, wherein the first electrode includes a plurality of first patterns, and a second pattern formed as one body with the plurality of first patterns so as to connect the plurality of first patterns in the first direction; the second electrode includes a plurality of third patterns, and a fourth pattern formed as one body with the plurality of third patterns so as to connect the plurality of third patterns in the second direction; and the first pattern is provided at a predetermined distance in a horizontal direction from the third pattern, the second pattern crosses the fourth pattern, and an area of the first electrode is larger than an area of the second electrode.
US09104253B2 Display device
A display device is disclosed. In one embodiment, the device includes: i) a display panel having a display area and a peripheral area, ii) a touch panel disposed corresponding to the display area on the display panel, iiii) a connecting portion extending from an edge of the touch panel to an edge of the display panel and iv) a window disposed on the touch panel, and including a window main body covering the display area and the peripheral area and a black matrix portion covering the peripheral area. The device may further include a resin layer disposed between the window and the touch panel and cured with light and a reinforcing tape attached to the peripheral area of the display panel and attached between the connecting portion and the display panel, and having a groove recessed corresponding to the connecting portion.
US09104251B1 Full-bridge tip driver for active stylus
A method and apparatus to increase a transmit (TX) signal generated by an active stylus without increasing the power consumption of the active stylus. In one aspect, the active stylus increases the amplitude of the TX signal. In another aspect, the active stylus increases the TX signal by providing the capacitance of a body of a user to the stylus.
US09104248B2 Electronic device
An electronic device includes a portable computing device and a peripheral device. The portable computing device includes a control center and a first sensor, and whereas the peripheral device includes a base, a frame body and a lock set. An input module is located in the base and the frame body, having a closed position and an uncovered position with respect to the base, is pivotally connected to the base. The lock set, having a released position and a locked position, is located in the frame body and includes a second sensor. The control center detects a relative location between the first sensor and the second sensor and uses the relative location for controlling the statuses of the input module and the portable computing device.
US09104246B2 Electronic system having multiple input keyboards and operation method of the same
An electronic system having a multiple of input keyboards is provided. The electronic system comprises a touch display unit and a processing unit. The touch display unit displays a plurality of input fields. The processing unit links each of a plurality of virtual input keyboards correspondingly to one of the input fields to perform data processing on the input fields according to the operation input on each of the virtual input keyboards.
US09104236B2 Modifying information presented by an augmented reality device
An approach is provided to control information display at an augmented reality device. In the approach, a biometric value is received from a biometric input device. The biometric input device is a device that receives biometric data from a user of the augmented reality device. The received biometric value is compared to a number of previously established biometric input ranges that correspond to the user. Each of the biometric input ranges corresponds to a different display policy. The comparison identifies a selected display policy. The display detail of the augmented reality device is then automatically set according to the selected display policy.
US09104235B2 Modifying information presented by an augmented reality device
An approach is provided to control information display at an augmented reality device. In the approach, a biometric value is received from a biometric input device. The biometric input device is a device that receives biometric data from a user of the augmented reality device. The received biometric value is compared to a number of previously established biometric input ranges that correspond to the user. Each of the biometric input ranges corresponds to a different display policy. The comparison identifies a selected display policy. The display detail of the augmented reality device is then automatically set according to the selected display policy.
US09104233B2 Method and device for visual compensation
A method 300 and device for visual compensation captures 330 an image using an imager, detects 360 whether eyeglasses are present in the image, and sets 363 an electronic visual display to a normal font size, if eyeglasses are detected as present in the image. If eyeglasses are not detected as present in the image, the electronic visual display is set 367 to a larger font size. The method and device can be triggered 320 (for example) by an incoming call or message, by a touch screen activation, a key press, or by a sensed motion of the device. The method can be repeated from time to time to detect whether a user has taken off eyeglasses (or put on eyeglasses) after the first image capture. The method and device compensates for users with presbyopia (and some other types of visual impairments) who intermittently wear glasses.
US09104232B2 System and method for creating an electronic-calendar entry
Methods, systems, and products automatically creates a calendar entry for an electronic calendar application. A graphical user interface is displayed having a text field and a date and time field. Whenever a user wishes to create a calendar entry, the user populates the text field and the date and time field. The user then selects a graphical control that automatically creates the calendar entry in the electronic calendar application.
US09104230B2 Storage system, controller module and method of controlling storage system
A storage-system includes a storage-device, a first-device that controls to transfer data to-and-fro the storage-device and a second-device redundant from the first-device, wherein the first-device includes a processing-device that processes a command related to input-and-output of data stored in the storage-device, a storage-unit that stores, in a correlated manner, the number of commands issued collectively during download of firmware for controlling the processing-device and response delay-time representing time in which a response has been delayed due to the download in a correlated manner, and a control-unit which retrieves the number of issuable commands corresponding to acceptable response-delay-time of the command during download and restricts issue of the command for which an issue request has been newly made if the number of commands being issued is equal to or greater than the retrieved number of issuable commands during the download, when a download request is made.
US09104229B2 Policy controlled preload and consumption of software application
The present disclosure relates to interrelated methods in a server and in a client enabling policy controlled preload and consumption of software application in a client. The method in a server comprises receiving information pertaining to an identified user; providing the identified user's current user and/or software application usage policies to a client associated with the identified user; deriving an software application preferences context pertaining to the user; based on the derived software application preferences context recommending an unsolicited software application from a set of available software applications; and preparing for transmission a set of software application comprising the recommended unsolicited software application; and transmitting to the client the prepared set of software applications. The method further relates to a server, a client, a computer program on a carrier and a computer program product.
US09104228B2 Active control method of accelerator pedal effort
An active control method of accelerator pedal effort is configured such that, when a driver changes lanes while driving a vehicle having a pedal effort controllable accelerator, the method can actively control the accelerator pedal effort so as to reduce the pedal effort, and when the driver turns corners while driving the vehicle, the method can actively control the accelerator pedal effort so as to increase the pedal effort.
US09104227B2 Steering apparatus for a steered vehicle
A steering apparatus comprises a rotatable steering shaft and a sensor which senses angular movement of the steering shaft. An electromagnetic actuator actuates a stop mechanism to releasable engage the steering shaft. There is a microcontroller which causes the electromagnetic actuator to actuate the stop mechanism to fully engage the steering shaft and prevent rotation of the steering shaft in a first rotational direction, which corresponds to movement towards the hardstop position, while allowing rotational play between the steering shaft and the stop mechanism in a second direction, which corresponds to rotational movement away from the hardstop position, when the sensor senses that the steering shaft has reached a hardstop position. A driver applies a reserve polarity pulse to the electromagnetic actuator when the stop mechanism is fully engaged and the steering shaft is rotated, as permitted by the rotational play, in the second rotational direction.
US09104221B2 Power supply module, electronic device including the same and power supply method
A power supply module and a power supply method corresponding to an electronic device. The power supply module includes a low-dropout (LDO) voltage regulator to adjust an input signal received from a battery and output a stabilized output signal, and an external load calculation circuit to calculate an external load value at a power output node of the LDO voltage regulator and stabilize the output signal based on the external load value.
US09104217B2 Electronic device and method for generating a curvature compensated bandgap reference voltage
The invention relates to an electronic device with a bandgap reference generator including a first path with series connection of a first bipolar transistor, a first resistor and a second resistor, and a second path with series connection of a second bipolar transistor and a third resistor. The first and second paths are supplied current via a common node through a fourth resistor controlled by an amplifier sensing voltage drops within the first and second paths. A curvature compensation stage compensates for a variation of base emitter voltage of the bipolar transistors by drawing a compensation current from the common resistor node.
US09104214B2 Voltage providing circuit
A voltage providing circuit includes a first circuit, a second circuit coupled with the first circuit, and a third circuit coupled with the second circuit. The first circuit is configured to receive a first input signal and to generate a first output signal. The second circuit is configured to receive the first input signal and the first output signal as inputs and to generate a second output signal. The third circuit is configured to receive the second output signal and to generate an output voltage.
US09104212B2 Power supply apparatus and method, and user equipment
Embodiments of the present invention provide a power supply apparatus and method, and a user equipment. In the embodiments of the present invention, charging protection for the battery electric core and a bypass function for the voltage boost circuit can be implemented through control that is performed on the switch device by the logic control circuit, so that additional impedance can be reduced and working efficiency can be improved.
US09104205B1 Automated return shopping cart
An automated return shopping cart for enabling a shopping cart to sense when it is not in use and automatically return itself to a cart corral area when it is not in use. The automated return shopping cart comprises a conventional shopping cart modified to include an automation component, which includes the programmable logic controller, a rechargeable battery, the powertrain components, and brakes, interconnected with a GPS component, object sensors, activity sensors, two docking ports, a touchscreen, and a WiFi component. Whenever the cart is not in use, the automation component causes the cart to be moved back to a desired location, using the GPS component to determine the route based on the location of the desired destination. While in route to the desired destination, object sensors are used to detect objects in the current and potential path of the cart, enabling the cart to avoid the objects.
US09104203B2 Robot and method for planning path of the same
A robot and a method for planning a path of the robot. The method includes storing coordinates of a base cell in a queue structure, setting a plurality of cells adjacent to the base cell as scan cells, calculating a movement direction of the robot from the base cell to each of the scan cells, calculating movement cost of each of the scan cells according to the calculated movement direction, comparing the calculated movement cost and movement cost previously stored in each of the scan cells and determining whether or not coordinates of each of the scan cells are stored in the queue structure, and repeatedly performing a process of recording the movement direction and the movement cost in each of the scan cells and building a map of the movement space of the robot if the coordinates of each of the scan cells are stored in the queue structure.
US09104201B1 Method and apparatus for dynamic swarming of airborne drones for a reconfigurable array
A method, system and apparatus to detect when one or more airborne unmanned aerial vehicles (drones) are close to each other, and to take necessary actions to maintain a minimum distance between drones as well as a maximum distance among the drones in a dynamic environment by automatic navigation. A computer method and apparatus for holding a group of drones in a swarm formation by maintaining the group centroid of the group of drones within a tolerance of a predetermined location is also disclosed. Additionally, methods to move a swarm of drones along a predetermined path while maintaining the swarm formation of the drones is also disclosed.
US09104199B2 Engine monitoring
A method of monitoring a device, the method comprising: measuring one or more device operating parameters and a device performance parameter during one or more device operational periods; recording a plurality of data points, each data point comprising the device operating parameters and the associated device performance parameter; identifying one or more steady state regions in the device performance parameter and selecting a plurality of the data points from the one or more steady state regions in the device performance parameter; selecting one or more groups (40) of the steady state data points in the device operating parameter space by virtue of a predetermined density of the steady state data points in the device operating parameter space; and comparing the device performance parameter within the groups so as to identify a change in the performance of the device.
US09104195B2 Welding job sequencer
A semi-automatic welding work cell, including a welding job sequencer that automatically selects a welding schedule for use by an operator in the semi-automatic welding work cell. The automatic selection may be by way of elapsed time, a detection of welding operations, a detection of the amount of welding wire supplied for the welding operation, or a detection of the amount of energy supplied for the welding operation.
US09104194B2 Processing information acquisition system in processing machine supplying processing point with energy or material
A processing information acquisition system in a processing machine which feeds a processing point energy or material, the processing information acquisition system provided with a position information acquisition unit which acquires position information of a feed unit of energy or material, a feed rate control unit which receives a feed condition command of energy or material, converts the feed condition command to a control command which controls a feed of energy or material, and uses the converted control command to control a feed rate of energy or material from the feed unit, a feed rate estimation unit which acquires the control command from the feed rate control unit and calculates an estimated feed rate of energy or material which is fed to a processing point based on the control command, and an output unit which outputs the position information which the position information acquisition unit acquired and the estimated feed rate which the feed rate estimation unit calculated when the feed unit is located at a position corresponding to the position information.
US09104189B2 Methods and apparatuses for monitoring energy consumption and related operations
Apparatus and method including acquiring a signal indicative of power consumption; detecting a transient in the signal; extracting a feature indicative of the transient, wherein extracting the feature includes: fitting a plurality of models to the transient, selecting one of the plurality of models as a model for the transient, and defining the feature indicative of the transient based on at least one parameter of the model for the transient; and classifying the transient based on the feature.
US09104184B2 Systems and methods for switch-controlled VAR sources coupled to a power grid
Systems and methods for switch-controlled VAR sources coupled to a power grid are described. In some embodiments, a system comprises a distribution power network coupled to a first switch-controlled VAR source. The first switch-controlled VAR source may comprise a processor, a voltage compensation component, and a switch. The first switch-controlled VAR source may be configured to obtain a first delay value, monitor a first proximate voltage, initiate a first delay duration based on the comparison of the first proximate voltage to at least one set point, the first delay duration being based on the first delay value, determine, with the processor, after the first delay duration, whether to connect the voltage compensation component based on the monitored voltage, and control, based on the determination, the switch to connect the voltage compensation component to adjust a network voltage or a network voltage component.
US09104179B2 Winding mass
The invention relates to a winding mass (10) for a watch movement, comprising a geometric rotation axis (100), a peripheral portion (10) and a connecting portion (13) between the peripheral portion (10) and the rotation axis (100), the density and the mass of the peripheral portion being greater than those of the connecting portion. The connecting portion (13) is moved by means of bird feather-like portions (20).
US09104178B2 Method for making a spring for a timepiece
The invention relates to a method for making a spring for a timepiece that comprises at least one monobloc ribbon of metal glass including at least one curvature. The method is characterized in that said method comprises the step of shaping by means of plastic-deformation said monobloc ribbon in order to obtain at least a portion of said curvature.
US09104177B2 Apparatus and a method for reconstructing a hologram
An apparatus and method for reconstructing a hologram are disclosed. An illuminator emits a reference beam, a hologram display driver displays an interference pattern based on a video signal, a lens unit adjusts a magnification and a focus of a hologram reproduced by projecting the emitted reference beam onto the displayed interference pattern, and a scanning unit scans the adjusted hologram to pixels of a screen by controlling a direction of the adjusted hologram.
US09104173B2 Image forming apparatus
An image forming apparatus, comprising: an image formation unit configured to form an image on a sheet; a sensor unit having a light-emitting device and a light-receiving device; a frame to which the sensor unit is attached; at least one projection provided on one of the sensor unit and the frame, the at least one projection being formed to have a contacting part which projects to contact an other of the sensor unit and the frame; and at least one engagement part provided on one of the sensor unit and the frame, the at least one engagement part being formed to engage with at least one catching part provided on an other of the sensor unit and the frame and to press the at least one projection in a direction of increasing a contact surface pressure of the contacting part by causing elastic deformation.
US09104166B2 Image forming apparatus having photosensitive drum and transfer belt
In an image forming apparatus, when a photosensitive drum is mounted to the main body, the photosensitive drum is disposed below a positioning member and a transfer belt is disposed above the photosensitive drum. A first urging member urges downward an end of the photosensitive drum that is defined in an axial direction of the first photosensitive drum. A second urging member urges the photosensitive drum when the photosensitive drum is mounted to the main body. The second urging member urges the photosensitive drum upward against an urging force of the first urging member, thereby causing the photosensitive drum to make contact with the positioning member. The first urging member is disposed at a position between the positioning member and the second urging member in the axial direction of the photosensitive drum.
US09104164B2 Medium carrying device, image forming device, and medium carrying method
A medium carrying device includes: first and second carrying part that carry a medium to a second position via a first position; a slack detection unit positioned between the first and second carrying part and detecting slack in the medium; a medium carrying detection part that detects a carrying state of the medium; an input part that receives a recovery instruction when an abnormality is detected in the carrying state of the medium by the medium carrying detection part; a controller that stops the carrying of the medium by the first and second carrying parts when the abnormality is detected in the carrying state of the medium by the medium carrying detection part and that resumes the carrying of the medium by the first and second carrying parts according to a detection result by the slack detection part when the input part receives the recovery instruction.
US09104162B2 Conveyor system and image forming apparatus including same
A conveyor system includes a first conveyor belt entrained about a separation roller and a support roller disposed upstream from the separation roller, a second conveyor belt entrained about a first roller disposed at an uppermost stream in a transport direction of a sheet-type medium and a second roller disposed downstream therefrom, a belt alignment device to tilt a rotary shaft of the separation roller to restrict a range of belt mistracking of the first conveyor belt in a width direction thereof within a predetermined range, and a restriction member to restrict an amount of inclination of the rotary shaft such that a hypothetical extended plane, which is a hypothetical extension of the outer circumferential surface of the first conveyor belt between the separation roller and the support roller to a downstream side in the transport direction, does not contact a rotational center axis of the first roller.
US09104156B2 Fixing device and image forming apparatus incorporating same
A fixing device to fix an unfixed image carried on a recording medium includes an endless, rotary fixing member; a heat source to heat the fixing member; an opposed member disposed opposite the fixing member and to form a fixing nip in combination with the fixing member; and a biasing member disposed opposite the opposed member with the fixing member interposed therebetween, to press the fixing member from a back side of the fixing member against the opposed member at the fixing nip; grip portions at which the fixing member and the opposed member contact each other in areas through which the recording medium does not pass, among the fixing nip along a direction perpendicular to a conveyance direction of the recording medium; and a cleaning member to clean an outer circumference of at least one of the grip portions of the fixing member and the opposed member.
US09104155B2 Image heating apparatus
If the positional relationship between the rubbing roller and the contact angle of the belt-like fixing member is changed by inclination of the steering roller, it is always possible for the rubbing roller to abut on the range where the belt-like fixing member is wrapped. As a result, it is possible to maintain uniform surface roughness for the fixing member surface layer, allowing the recording material to maintain evenness in the gloss.
US09104154B2 Image forming apparatus and method which controls the temperature of a fixing apparatus
In accordance with one embodiment, an image forming apparatus includes an image forming section (1) configured to form a toner image on an image receiving medium; a fixing apparatus (20) configured to heat, using a heating component (21), the image receiving medium formed with the toner image to fix the toner image; a fan (66) configured to cool the heating component at least; and a control section (60) configured to enable, after the image forming section finishes an image forming operation, the fan to operate for a given time when the elapsed time for image forming operation is shorter than a first formation time, and enable the heating component to idle without generating heat while operating the fan, when the elapsed time for image forming operation is equal to or longer than the first time.
US09104153B2 Image forming apparatus
An image forming apparatus including: a heating member which heats a toner image on a recording medium using a decolorizable toner containing a coloring agent containing a color developable compound and a color developing agent and having a capsule structure covered with an outer shell; a pressing member which is in press contact with the heating member to form a nip portion and nips and conveys the recording medium in cooperation with the heating member; a temperature control section which controls the temperature of the heating member to a temperature not higher than the density maintaining threshold temperature and not lower than the melting threshold temperature; and a conveyance control section which controls the conveying speed of the recording medium such that a time required for the recording medium to pass through the nip portion is 100 msec or more.
US09104148B2 Image heating apparatus and image forming apparatus
An image heating apparatus includes a rotatable heating member configured to heat a toner image on a sheet; a belt unit including an endless belt configured to heat the rotatable heating member by contacting an outer surface of the rotatable heating member, and a supporting mechanism configured to rotatably supporting the endless belt; a detector configured to detect that the endless belt is out of a predetermined zone in a widthwise direction of the endless belt; and a tilting mechanism configured to tilt the belt unit in a direction of causing the endless belt to return into the predetermined zone based on an output of the detector.
US09104145B2 Fixing device having a sliding sheet of cross-linked PTFE
A fixing device includes a heating member that heats a toner image on a recording medium and includes a rotatable belt member, a heat source, a pressing member, a sliding sheet, and a pressure-applying member. The pressing member presses the belt member against the pressure-applying member. A surface of the pressing member that opposes the belt member includes a flat portion or a recessed portion having a radius of curvature of approximately 100 mm or more. The sliding sheet is disposed between the belt member and the pressing member and includes a sliding layer containing cross-linked polytetrafluoroethylene, the content of which in resin contained in the layer is approximately 25 mass % or more and approximately 75 mass % or less. The pressure-applying member presses the recording medium against the belt member and rotates to transport the recording medium while nipping it between itself and the belt member.
US09104140B2 Systems, methods and apparatuses for authorized use and refill of a printer cartridge
The systems, methods and apparatuses described herein provide a chip for a cartridge with dispensable material may be provided. In one aspect, the chip may comprise a non-volatile memory for storing a number tracking amount of dispensable material in the cartridge, a circuit with permanently and irreversibly changeable state and circuit components configured to receive and process a first message, and receive a second message. The first message may comprise a first command and an operation input value for a print job at the cartridge, and to process the first message may comprise decreasing the amount of dispensable material. The second message may comprise a second command to increase the amount of dispensable material. The circuit components may be further configured to ignore the second command if the circuit has permanently and irreversibly changed its state to prevent responding to requests to increase the number tracking amount of dispensable material.
US09104138B2 Developing device
There is provided a developing device including a developing roller, a housing configured to support the developing roller, a first seal member arranged between the developing roller and the housing at each end portion of the developing roller in an axial direction thereof, and a second seal member arranged between the developing roller and the housing at an inner side of each first seal member in the axial direction and having a smaller frictional force per unit area to be applied with respect to the developing roller than the first seal member.
US09104136B2 Developer conveyance device, development device, and image forming apparatus
A developer conveyance device includes a housing and a conveyance member. The conveyance member is supported to the housing and rotates to convey developer. The conveyance member includes a shaft portion, a helical member, and a plurality of reinforcement members. The plurality of reinforcement members are disposed in a circumferential direction of rotation of the conveyance member. When viewing a cross section in a direction intersecting with the rotational axis, an outer circumferential surface of the helical member includes a facing region and a non-facing region, which are defined for one reinforcement member of the plurality of reinforcement members, the facing region being a region where the one reinforcement member of the plurality of reinforcement members is projected on an opposite side of an outer circumferential surface of the helical member through the rotational axis, and the non-facing region being a region of the outer circumferential surface of the helical member which is different from the facing region. The other reinforcement member of the plurality of reinforcement members is disposed in the non-facing region.
US09104134B2 Toner level sensing for replaceable unit of an image forming device
A method for estimating an amount of toner remaining in a reservoir of a replaceable unit for an image forming device according to one example embodiment includes receiving by processing circuitry pulses from a magnetic sensor. Each pulse is indicative that the magnetic sensor detected a magnet on a moving paddle positioned in the reservoir. The processing circuitry counts the number of the pulses received from the magnetic sensor. Upon receiving a request from a controller of the image forming device, the processing circuitry sends to the controller of the image forming device the count of the pulses received from the magnetic sensor and resets the count of the pulses received from the magnetic sensor.
US09104131B1 Optical scanning head, image processing apparatus, and non-transitory computer readable recording medium storing light intensity correction control program
Provided is an optical scanning head including plural light-emitting element arrays that are arranged along a scanning direction, each of which includes plural light-emitting elements, a light-emitting control unit that outputs a light-emitting timing signal generated based on image information to each light-emitting element of the plural light-emitting element arrays to control light emission of the light-emitting element, a storage unit that is common to the plural light-emitting element arrays and stores a correction value of a light intensity variation due to an arrival time difference between the light-emitting timing signals to the plural light-emitting elements, and a correction unit that corrects the light-emitting timing signal based on the correction value.
US09104130B2 Image forming apparatus with control of charging voltage of photosensitive member
An image forming apparatus including: photosensitive members; charging devices to which a common charging power source applies a charging voltage to charge the photosensitive members; an exposure device configured to expose the photosensitive members; developing devices to form developer images on the photosensitive members; a transfer device to transfer the developer images onto a transfer medium; and a control portion configured to set a lower limit value of the charging voltage for each photosensitive member, apply the charging voltage having a magnitude not less than any lower limit value from the charging power source to the charging devices, control the output of the laser power for each photosensitive member individually, and set, based on the image density of the developer image transferred onto the transfer medium earlier, the lower limit value for a photosensitive member on which a developer image to be transferred onto the transfer medium later is formed.
US09104129B2 Charging device, image forming apparatus, and computer program product
An charging device includes: capacitors connected in series; a charging unit that charges the capacitors; bypass units, each respectively connects in parallel to each capacitors, wherein each bypass unit causes, when a charged voltage of any capacitor has reached a set voltage, a charging current to bypass the capacitor whose charged voltage has reached the set voltage; and a control unit that controls the charging unit to charge the capacitors in such a manner that, when a charging voltage of the any capacitor has reached the set voltage, the control unit causes the charging unit to reduce the charging current, and if a predetermined period has elapsed since the charging voltage has reached the set voltage, and if a charging voltage of any of the other capacitors has not reached the set voltage after the predetermined period, the control unit causes the charging unit to increase the charging current.
US09104126B2 Stable emissive toner composition system and method
A method of producing an emissive toner composition including selecting a photoluminescent agent, a charge control agent, and one or more additives and combining the photoluminescent agent, charge control agent, and one or more additives to form an emissive toner composition that when printed to produce an image component on a substrate, the emission spectra of the image component for irradiation with a first excitation energy includes only dominant emission peaks corresponding to one or more dominant emission peaks of the photoluminescent agent. The photoluminescent agent is selected such that it emits light having one or more dominant emission peaks in a first emission spectral region when irradiated with the first excitation energy. The charge control agent and one or more additives are selected such that they do not emit light in the visible spectrum when irradiated with visible light and does not emit light in the first emission spectral region when irradiated with the first excitation energy.
US09104121B2 Exposure apparatus having a vibration suppressing feature and method of manufacturing device using the exposure apparatus
An exposure apparatus includes: a substrate stage configured to move upon holding the substrate; a structural member configured to support a substrate stage; a first counter mass stage configured to cancel a driving reaction force that is generated due to driving of the substrate stage and acts on the structural member; a substrate stage driver configured to generate a force between the substrate stage and the first counter mass stage; a first counter mass driver configured to generate a force between the structural member and the first counter mass stage; a controller configured to control the first counter mass driver so as to cancel the force that acts on the structural member by generating a force between the structural member and the first counter mass stage using the first counter mass driver.
US09104117B2 Lithographic apparatus having a liquid detection system
In immersion lithography after exposure of a substrate is complete, a detector is used to detect any residual liquid remaining on the substrate and/or substrate table.
US09104112B2 Mask blank, method of manufacturing the same, and transfer mask
Provided is a mask blank that is improved in adhesion of a thin film for forming a transfer pattern to a resist, thus capable of suppressing the occurrence of collapse, chipping, or the like of a formed resist pattern. The mask blank has, on a transparent substrate 1, a thin film 2 which is for forming a transfer pattern and is made of a material containing a metal. The thin film 2 has a surface modified layer in the form of an oxide film containing a hydrocarbon. The surface modified layer of the thin film 2 can be formed by, for example, causing a highly concentrated ozone gas and an unsaturated hydrocarbon gas to act on the thin film.
US09104108B2 Holder, lithography apparatus, and method of manufacturing article
The present invention provides a holder for holding a substrate, the holder including a base to be received by a table, the base including a first surface arranged to receive the substrate to be held by the holder and a second surface opposite to the first surface, a first support provided on the second surface and arranged to surround a through hole formed in the base and configured to contact the table, a second support provided on the second surface and arranged to surround the first support and to contact the table, and a plurality of first pins provided in a region of the second surface between the second support and an outer edge of the base and arranged to contact the table.
US09104107B1 DUV photoresist process
DUV lithography process that eliminates post exposure baking of a photoresist. Thick photoresist may be processed to obtain enhanced sidewall profiles for microelectronic devices.
US09104105B2 Patterning process and resist composition
A negative pattern is formed by applying a resist composition onto a substrate, prebaking, exposing to high-energy radiation, baking (PEB), and developing the exposed resist film in an organic solvent developer to dissolve the unexposed region of resist film. The resist composition comprising a polymer comprising recurring units of cycloolefin having a hydroxyl group substituted with an acid labile group, an acid generator, and an organic solvent displays a high dissolution contrast and high etch resistance.
US09104098B2 Electrophotographic photosensitive member, process cartridge, and electrophotographic apparatus
A charge-generating layer of an electrophotographic photosensitive member includes a phthalocyanine pigment and a specific tricyanoethylene compound. Alternatively, the charge-generating layer and/or an undercoat layer of the electrophotographic photosensitive member includes a specific tricyanoethylene compound, and the charge-generating layer includes the phthalocyanine pigment.
US09104094B2 Illumination system including first and second lens arrays wherein some lenses in the second array include a first and a second lens element
In at least one embodiment of the disclosure, an illumination system includes a light source that emits an illumination light flux. A first lens array has a plurality of first small lenses arranged therein. The first small lenses divide the illumination light flux emitted from the light source into a plurality of segmental light fluxes. A second lens array has a plurality of second small lenses arranged therein. The second small lenses have a one-to-one correspondence with the first small lenses and are configured to receive the segmental light fluxes exiting from the first small lenses. At least some of the second small lenses each include a plurality of lens elements disposed in a surface direction that is the same as the second small lenses. A superimposing lens superimposes on an illuminated area the segmental light fluxes exiting from the plurality of second small lenses.
US09104092B2 Display and portable projector including a laser beam generation portion
This display includes a control portion controlling a laser beam generation portion to output a first laser beam including a region of relaxation oscillation to a partial first image forming element included in a plurality of image forming elements and to output a second laser beam including no region of relaxation oscillation to a second image forming element, other than the first image forming element, included in the plurality of image forming elements.
US09104090B1 Viewfinder
A viewfinder 3 includes a finder optical system S2 including first and second lens groups L1, L2; a zoom frame 6 provided with first and second cam grooves 63, 64 configured to rotate about an optical axis A2 to move the first and second lens groups L1, L2 in the optical axis direction in accordance with the shapes of the first and second cam grooves 63, 64; and a diopter adjuster 9 configured to adjust the diopter of the finder optical system S2. The diopter adjuster 9 changes the position of the zoom frame 6 in the optical axis direction to adjust the diopter of the finder optical system S2, and adjusts, during rotation of the zoom frame 6, the position of the zoom frame 6 in the optical axis direction such that the diopter of the finder optical system S2 is maintained.
US09104088B2 Light amount adjusting apparatus, lens barrel, and imaging apparatus
Provided is a light amount adjusting apparatus wherein a base member has a plurality of supporting parts for supporting the plurality of light amount adjusting blades and a second contact part is located outside a circle extending through the plurality of supporting parts, wherein a contact part between the second contact part and a first contact part is constituted at the other surface of the base member with respect to a surface having a jointing part between a blade driving member and the base member, and wherein, when the blade driving member is pivoted in the circumferential direction of an opening, a part of the blade driving member overlaps at least one of the supporting parts for supporting the light amount adjusting blades at a position offset in a direction parallel to the center axis of the opening.
US09104087B2 Imaging apparatus and methods
Methods, systems and apparatus for manipulating electromagnetic radiation such as laser beams. A method and apparatus for correcting magnification chromatic aberration utilizes one or more dispersive lenses such that long wavelength components are magnified less than short wavelength components. A telecentric relay is preferred to achieve this aim. Further, the use of polarizers to block the undesired zeroth order components of diffraction emanating from acousto-optic deflectors (AODs) is disclosed. Furthermore, specific designs of AOD including narrow transducer AODs which produce a diverging acoustic wave and AODs having two transducers and a selection switch are disclosed. Further, the invention provides methods, systems and apparatus for allowing the wavelength of radiation to be changed, for providing a user selectable degree of compensation, for providing a scanning and/or a pointing system and for providing a compact system that does not require telecentric relays between adjacent acousto-optic deflectors.
US09104080B2 Liquid crystal display
The present disclosure provides a liquid crystal display, including at least one repairing line, a short circuit bar area, a number of data line pads, a number of testing lines for connecting short circuit bars on the short circuit bar area and the data line pads, a wiring area, a displaying area, and a number of data lines passing through the wiring area and the displaying area; first ends of the data lines being electrically connected to the data line pads and second ends of the data lines extending to be located under the displaying area; the repairing line comprising a first portion isolably intersecting with the testing lines, a second portion isolably intersecting with the second ends of the data lines, and a third portion connecting the first portion and the second portion in the repairing of a disconnected line.
US09104077B2 Liquid crystal display device
A liquid crystal display device is provided with a thin film transistor which includes a gate electrode film that is provided in a first electrode layer located over a first insulating layer, a semiconductor film that is disposed over the gate electrode film via a second insulating layer, a drain electrode and a source electrode that are provided in a second electrode layer located over the semiconductor film and are in contact with an upper surface of the semiconductor film, and a light blocking film that is disposed under the first insulating layer. At least a part thereof overlaps the semiconductor film and the gate electrode film in a plan view. One of the drain electrode and the source electrode is connected to a gate line, and the light blocking film is electrically connected to the source electrode.
US09104068B2 Backlight module and LCD device comprising backlight module
The invention provides a backlight module and an LCD device including the backlight module. The backlight module includes an LGP, a lightbar optically coupled with the LGP, and an outer frame. The lightbar is arranged on the outer frame from the inner side of the backlight module. In the invention, because the lightbar is arranged on the outer frame of the backlight module, the lightbar can directly exchange heat with the outside air via the outer frame to dissipate heat; because the lightbar is directly arranged on the outer frame, the heat conduction path is shortened to a great extent. Thus, the heat emitted by the lightbar can be dissipated via the outer frame in time; the inside temperature of the backlight module is reduced, the stability and the service life of the components in the backlight module are increased, and the phenomenon that the stability of the LCD panel is affected by overhigh temperature is avoided.
US09104066B2 Portable device with display unit with particular metal structure and injection molded casing
There is provided a metal structure that holds the display unit, as the main structure, and a casing structure that is integrally molded from resin onto the metal structure. The metal structure is resilient against flexural loads, torsional loads, and other deformations from the exterior upon the display unit composed of thin plate glass, because the member that protects the display unit is in a box shape. The display unit itself can be protected from damage even if rigidity is reduced because of a thinner profile. The metal structure is manufactured by thin plate pressing and sufficient strength can be maintained even if the thickness is low. Furthermore, the metal structure is configured as a frame part of the entire casing, the rigidity of the entire device can therefore be maintained by using this structure, and the mounting board and functional components other than the display unit can also be protected.
US09104063B2 3D image display apparatus and driving method thereof
A 3D image display apparatus includes a display unit, a first polarizer with a polarization axis, a second polarizer and a switching unit. The switching unit includes a first substrate, a second substrate and a liquid crystal layer. The first substrate is disposed with a first conductive layer on an inner surface thereof along a first direction and is electrically coupled to a first voltage source. The second substrate is parallel to the first substrate and disposed with a second conductive layer on an inner surface thereof along a second direction and is electrically coupled to a second voltage source. The first and second directions have an angle therebetween. The liquid crystal layer is disposed between the first and second substrates and includes a plurality of liquid crystals each having a slow axis.
US09104057B2 Liquid-crystal display (LCD) panel capable of achieving low-temperature display
A liquid-crystal display (LCD) panel capable of achieving low-temperature display comprises an opposing substrate. a thin-film transistor (TFT) substrate and a liquid crystal layer disposed between the opposing substrate and the TFT substrate, a TFT pattern including gate lines and data lines is disposed on the front side of the TFT substrate, and an electrical heating pattern corresponding to the TFT pattern is disposed on the back side of the TFT substrate.
US09104055B2 Liquid crystal display device with touch panel
A second substrate has detection electrodes of a touch panel, each of pixels has a pixel electrode and a counter electrode, the counter electrode is divided into a plurality of blocks, the counter electrodes of the respective divided blocks are commonly provided for the respective pixels of the plurality of display lines in series, and the counter electrodes also serve as scanning electrodes of the touch panel, and a counter electrode selector circuit that selects the counter electrodes. The counter electrode selector circuit includes an address decoder circuit that selects the counter electrodes of the respective blocks for a given period, and a selector circuit that applies a touch panel scanning voltage to the counter electrode of the block selected by the address decoder circuit, and applies a counter voltage to the counter electrodes of the blocks not selected by the address decoder circuit.
US09104051B2 Back frame and backlight system
The present invention provides a back frame of flat panel display device and a backlight system. The back frame includes primary assembling pieces, secondary assembling pieces, and a bracing piece for fixing a circuit board. The primary assembling pieces are connected through joining and use different thermally conductive materials. Further, a circuit board is mountable and position adjustable through a bracing piece. The present invention also provides a backlight system. The back frame and the backlight system of the present invention have a back frame of simple structure, reduce the expenditure of a back frame mold, facilitate heat dissipation, facility fixing of circuit board, and save the material used for back frame so as to lower down the manufacturing cost of flat panel display device.
US09104049B2 Display device with a base material made of plastic
A liquid crystal display device includes a first substrate and a second substrate which sandwiches a liquid crystal between itself and the first substrate, wherein the first substrate has thin film transistors and a wiring connection portion in which are formed terminals connected to the thin film transistors, a wiring substrate connected to the terminals is disposed in the wiring connection portion, the second substrate is a plastic substrate, and has an adhesive layer and an inorganic insulating layer formed on top of the adhesive layer, and the adhesive layer covers the wiring connection portion and one portion of the wiring substrate.
US09104048B2 Three dimensional image projector with single modulator
A system is provided projecting a three-dimensional image. The system includes a first light source, the first light source emitting light in a first direction. A second light source is provided, the second light source emitting light in a second direction, the second direction being opposite the first direction. A beam splitter device is disposed between the first light source and the second light source to receive light from the first light source and the second light source, the beam splitter device being arranged to rotate about an axis. An LCoS image device is disposed adjacent the beam splitter device, the LCoS image device having an image surface arranged substantially perpendicular to the first direction and the second direction.
US09104044B1 Adjustable in-situ device to stabilize and maintain positioning of eyewear on a user
Devices for eyewear and eyeglasses providing in situ adjustability to stabilize and maintain positioning of the eyewear and/or eyeglasses on a user are disclosed. The devices are further suitable for use in conjunction with a retainer strap and/or integrated with a retainer strap. The devices are further suitable for integration into the manufacture of eyewear and/or eyeglasses. Embodiments of the device and methods of employing the same are set forth.
US09104041B2 Optical system determination according to advanced criteria
A method implemented by computer means for calculating by optimization an optical system for example an ophthalmic lens according to at least one criterion among the following list consisting of: ocular deviation, object visual angular field in central vision, image visual angular field in central vision, pupil field ray deviation, object visual angular field in peripheral vision, image visual angular field in peripheral vision, prismatic deviation in peripheral vision, magnification in peripheral vision, lens volume, magnification of the eyes, temple shift, or a variation of preceding criteria.
US09104040B2 Line of sight stabilization system
An optical system (20) is presented, which is configured to enable the line of sight stabilization. The system comprises a light module (230), an optical module (210) defining an optical axis (0X) and an optical path of light propagation therethrough, and a stabilizer (220) configured and operable for providing optical coupling between said optical module (210) and said light module (230). The stabilizer (2209 comprises: a gimbal assembly defining a first rotation axis (FRX) orthogonal to said optical axis (0X), and an internal deflector (222) located in the optical path of light propagating through said optical module (210). The internal deflector (222) is mounted for rotation about said first rotation axis (FRX) and is configured and operable to provide optical coupling between at least a section of the optical path of said optical module (210) and an optical path of light passing through said light module (230).
US09104038B2 Multiple laser drive method, apparatus and system
A scanning projector includes a scanning mirror that sweep a beam in two dimensions. The beam is created by multiple laser light sources, at least two of which create light at substantially the same wavelength. A first of the two light sources is driven up to a transition point past which both of the two light sources are driven (equally or unequally).
US09104036B2 Collimating optical device and system
There is provided a light-guide, compact collimating optical device, including a light-guide having a light-waves entrance surface, a light-waves exit surface and a plurality of external surfaces, a light-waves reflecting surface carried by the light-guide at one of the external surfaces, two retardation plates carried by light-guides on a portion of the external surfaces, a light-waves polarizing beamsplitter disposed at an angle to one of the light-waves entrance or exit surfaces, and a light-waves collimating component covering a portion of one of the retardation plates. A system including the optical device and a substrate, is also provided.
US09104030B2 Laser illumination systems and methods for dual-excitation wavelength non-linear optical microscopy and micro-spectroscopy systems
An illumination system is disclosed for providing dual-excitation wavelength illumination for non-linear optical microscopy and micro-spectroscopy. The illumination system includes a laser system, an optical splitting means, a frequency shifting system, and a picosecond amplifier system. The laser system includes a laser for providing a first train of pulses at a center optical frequency ω1. The optical splitting means divides the first train of pulses at the center optical frequency ω1 into two trains of pulses. The frequency shifting system shifts the optical frequency of one of the two trains of pulses to provide a frequency shifted train of pulses. The picosecond amplifier system amplifies the frequency shifted train of pulses to provide an amplified frequency-shifted train of pulses having a pulse duration of at least 0.5 picoseconds.
US09104029B2 Multi-wavelength beam combining system and method
A system and method for decreasing the optical pathway length, varying brightness output quality, and stabilizing beams along the non-beam combining dimension in a WBC system.
US09104026B2 Optical imaging device and imaging method for microscopy
The present invention relates to an optical imaging device, in particular for microscopy, with a first optical element group and a second optical element group, wherein the first optical element group and the second optical element group, on an image plane, form an image of an object point of an object plane. The first optical element group includes a first optical element with a reflective first optical surface and a second optical element with a reflective second optical surface. The second optical element group includes a third optical element with a reflective third optical surface. The first optical element and the second optical element are formed and arranged such that on formation of the image of the object point, in each case a multiple reflection of at least one imaging beam takes place on the first optical surface and the second optical surface.
US09104024B2 Heads-up display with an achromatic lens for use in underwater applications
A heads-up display comprises a housing. A display panel is disposed within the housing. An objective lens is disposed within the housing. An achromatic lens is disposed within the housing between the display panel and the objective lens.
US09104023B2 Clamshell car head-up display device
A clamshell car head-up display device includes a body, a display module, a lid, a shaft group and a shaft, the display module is provided to project display information on the reflector plate of the lid, and the shaft group is provided to fix the flip angle of the lid when being lifted, to thereby ensure that the information screen does not be shaken due to car driving.
US09104012B2 Image lens assembly, image capturing device and mobile terminal
An image lens assembly includes, in order from an object side to an image side, a first lens element, a second lens element, a third lens element and a fourth lens element. The first lens element with positive refractive power has a convex object-side surface in a paraxial region thereof. The second lens element with negative refractive power has a concave object-side surface in a paraxial region thereof and a concave image-side surface in a paraxial region thereof. The third lens element with positive refractive power has a concave object-side surface in a paraxial region thereof and a convex image-side surface in a paraxial region thereof. The fourth lens element with negative refractive power has a concave image-side surface in a paraxial region thereof. The image lens assembly has a total of four lens elements with refractive power.
US09104011B2 Light collector devices
Light collector devices and methods of operating light collector devices are described herein. One or more embodiments include a plurality of apertures, and a detector coupled to each of the plurality of apertures.
US09104009B2 Optical imaging system and electronic apparatus including the same
An imaging optical system includes, in order from the object side to the image side, a first lens element, a second lens element, a third lens element, an aperture stop, a fourth lens element, a fifth lens element, and a sixth lens element arranged along an optical axis. The first lens element has a concave image-side surface in the vicinity of the optical axis. The second lens element has a negative refractive power. The third lens element has a convex object-side surface in a vicinity of an optical axis. The fourth lens element has a convex object-side surface in the vicinity of the optical axis. The fifth lens element has a convex image-side surface in the vicinity of the optical axis. The sixth lens element is made of plastic and has a convex image-side surface in a vicinity of an outer circumference.
US09104007B2 Storage assembly for fibre-optic cables
A channelling assembly for guiding cable on a cable management tray is formed by a ducted member having an inlet end and an outlet end so as to form open channels into which cable can be laid through the open top of each channel. A retaining member is associated with each channel. Each retaining member is engaged with the tops of a neighboring pair of partitions so as to close the top of the channel formed between the partitions. A resiliently deformable region is formed on each retaining member, which extends down into the channel upon engaging the retraining member with the partitions so as to compress cables located in the channel between the resiliently deformable member and the bottom of the channel, and thus securely retain the cables in place.
US09104005B2 Cable shroud assembly for fiber optic enclosure
A fiber optic enclosure assembly includes a fiber optic enclosure and a cable shroud assembly. The fiber optic enclosure includes a base having a first end, an oppositely disposed second end, and first and second sides that extend between the first and second ends. A cover is engaged to the base. The cable shroud assembly includes a first piece engaged to the first and second sides of the base of the fiber optic enclosure at the first end of the base. The first piece includes a base wall, a first side wall that extends outwardly from the base wall and an oppositely disposed second side wall. The first piece includes a plurality of cable management spools disposed on the base wall. A second piece is engaged to the first piece. The second piece is configured to cover cables that enter/exit the first end of the base.
US09104004B2 Coupler for cable trough
Couplers for a cable trough system including a terminal end sized to receive a terminal end of a trough member along a longitudinal direction of the body. A spring may be coupled to the body for securing the terminal end of the trough member to the coupler, the spring including first and second spring arms extending generally in opposition to one another in a plane generally parallel to the longitudinal direction. The spring may be received in a slot formed by the trough member. Also included may be a spring release mechanism coupled to the body, the spring release mechanism sliding in the longitudinal direction between a locked position, such that the first and second spring arms engage the terminal end of the trough, and an unlocked position, such that the first and second fingers release the first and second arms of the spring.
US09104002B2 Optical coupling device
According to one embodiment, an optical coupling device includes a light emitting element configured to convert an electric signal into an optical signal, a photo transistor circuit configured to convert the optical signal into a current, the photo transistor circuit including a first transistor having a collector connected to a power source and an emitter through which the current is output, and a current mirror circuit including a second transistor having a collector connected to the emitter of the first transistor, a base connected to the emitter of the first transistor, and an emitter connected to a ground, and a third transistor having a collector connected to an output terminal, a base connected to the base of the second transistor, and a emitter connected to the ground.
US09104000B2 Optical module
An optical module includes a substrate including a conductor pattern formed thereon, a photoelectric conversion element mounted on the substrate, and an optical coupling member for optically coupling the photoelectric conversion element to an optical fiber. A part of the conductor pattern on the substrate defines an engagement portion that engages with the optical coupling member so as to position the optical coupling member relative to the substrate.
US09103996B2 Optical fiber connector with handling member
An optical fiber connector according to the present disclosure includes an outer housing, an inner housing and a handling member. The outer housing has an accommodation room defined by a first wall, a second wall, a third wall and a fourth wall, wherein the first wall faces the third wall and connects with the second and fourth walls. A hook is formed at each of the second and fourth walls. The inner housing protrudes outwardly from the accommodation room of the outer housing. The handling member has a pair of grip hooks that are configured to hook on to the hooks at the second and fourth walls, respectively.
US09103984B2 Optical transmission and receiving device for implementing passive alignment of components and method for passively aligning components
An optical device for implementing passive alignment of parts and a method therefore, more particularly an optical device and a method therefore that utilize an alignment reference part 115 arranged on the substrate 110 to passively align an optical element part 111 with a lens-optical fiber connection part 120. For the passive alignment of parts, connection pillars 115b of an alignment reference part 115 are coupled to substrate holes 114, one or more light-emitting elements 111a and one or more light-receiving elements 111b are aligned in a row in a particular interval with respect to alignment holes 115a arranged opposite each other in the alignment reference part 115, a lens-optical fiber connection part 120 is aligned with respect to the alignment holes 115a, and an optical fiber 133 is aligned with the optical alignment point at a surface 122b of a prism forming a portion of the lens-optical fiber connection part 120. In addition, the optical fiber 133 is secured with an optical fiber pin 131, after which a metal case 143 is covered and coupled with a case securing pin 141. The optical device for implementing passive alignment of parts provides the advantages of simplifying the passive optical alignment for multiple channels, so as to minimize alignment error, and of reducing and simplifying the structure of the optical modules and minimizing the number of parts used, so as to lower the costs of the optical modules.
US09103983B2 Optical element with mechanical alignment and method of making same
A product and process for fabricating an optical element from a capillary ferrule includes fusing the optical element onto an optical fiber. The optical element starts with a capillary ferrule that is sculpted on one end to form an optical property such as a flat window, ball lens, angled endface or other sculpted shape. The ferrule is fused onto an optical fiber that has been inserted into the ID of the capillary ferrule. As a result, the ferrule serves as a mechanical aligner for the optical element to fiber fusion process.
US09103978B2 Light-trapping sheet, and light-receiving device and light-emitting device using the same
A light-trapping sheet of the present disclosure includes: a plurality of light-transmitting sheets each having first and second principal surfaces; and a plurality of light-coupling structures arranged in an inner portion of each of the plurality of light-transmitting sheets at a first and second distance from the first and second principal surfaces, respectively. Each of the plurality of light-coupling structures includes a first light-transmitting layer, a second light-transmitting layer, and a third light-transmitting layer sandwiched therebetween. A refractive index of the first and second light-transmitting layers is smaller than a refractive index of the light-transmitting sheet; and a refractive index of the third light-transmitting layer is larger than the refractive index of the first and second light-transmitting layers. The third light-transmitting layer has a diffraction grating parallel to the first and second principal surfaces of the light-transmitting sheet.
US09103976B2 Method for manufacturing waveguide-type semiconductor device
A method for manufacturing a waveguide-type semiconductor device includes the steps of forming an epitaxial structure including a waveguide mesa and a device mesa; forming a mask for selective growth on the epitaxial structure; growing a semiconductor region on an end surface of the device mesa by using the mask for selective growth, the semiconductor region including a side portion having a layer shape and a protruding wall portion; forming an ohmic electrode on a top surface of the device mesa; forming a resin layer on the device mesa and the semiconductor region; forming a resin mask having an opening on the ohmic electrode; forming an electric conductor connecting the ohmic electrode to an electrode pad, the electric conductor passing over the protruding wall portion while making contact with a surface of the resin mask; and removing the resin mask after forming the electric conductor.
US09103972B2 Optical waveguide structure with waveguide coupler to facilitate off-chip coupling
Aspects of the invention are directed to a method for forming an optical waveguide structure. Initially, a base film stack is received with an optical waveguide feature covered by a lower dielectric layer. An etch stop feature is then formed on the lower dielectric layer, and an upper dielectric layer is formed over the etch stop feature. Subsequently, a trench is patterned in the upper dielectric layer and the etch stop feature at least in part by utilizing the etch stop feature as an etch stop. Lastly, a waveguide coupler feature is formed in the trench, at least a portion of the waveguide coupler feature having a refractive index higher than the lower dielectric layer and the upper dielectric layer. The waveguide coupler feature is positioned over at least a portion of the optical waveguide feature but is separated from the optical waveguide feature by a portion of the lower dielectric layer.
US09103971B2 Optical module and method for producing the same
An optical module includes a substrate, an optical device including a surface-emitting or -receiving element mounted on a surface of the substrate with a light-emitting or -receiving portion, an optical fiber disposed parallel to the surface of the substrate and in a longitudinal direction of the substrate, a damming member provided between the optical device and the substrate to extend in a width direction of the substrate and dividing a gap between the optical device and the substrate in the longitudinal direction of the substrate into a first portion and a second portion, and a mirror provided at one side surface of the damming member a tip of the optical fiber. The first portion provided on an opposite side to the optical fiber is filled with an underfill resin, and the second portion provided on a side close to the optical fiber is filled with an optical fiber fixing resin.
US09103969B2 Curable coating composition modified with a cleavable surfactant for improving adhesion in multilayered coating stacks
The present invention is dedicated to a process for improving the adhesion properties between a first coating obtained from a curable composition and a second coating, through the incorporation of a cleavable surfactant in said curable composition and subsequent cleavage thereof. Said process comprises: depositing onto the substrate of an optical article a first layer of a first curable composition comprising at least one cleavable surfactant, curing at least partially said first curable composition, thereby forming a first coating, forming a second coating onto said first coating, wherein, after said first curable composition has been deposited onto the substrate, and before deposition of the second coating, said optical article is subjected to a treatment step resulting in a cleavage of at least a portion of the cleavable surfactant. Curable compositions containing cleavable surfactants and optical articles having deposited thereon stacks of coatings formed by the above process are also described.
US09103965B2 Amphiphilic siloxane-containing vinylic monomers and uses thereof
The invention provides an amphiphilic siloxane-containing vinylic monomer which comprises one sole ethylenically unsaturated group and a siloxane-containing group covalently linked to the ethylenically-unsaturated group through a hydrophilic linker. The present invention is also related to a polymer, an actinically-crosslinkable silicone-containing prepolymer, a silicone hydrogel polymeric material, or a silicone hydrogel contact lens, which comprises monomeric units derived from an amphiphilic siloxane-containing vinylic monomer of the invention. In addition, the invention provides a method for making silicone hydrogel contact lenses using a water-based lens-forming formulation comprising an amphiphilic siloxane-containing vinylic monomer of the invention and/or an actinically-crosslinkable silicone-containing prepolymer of the invention.
US09103964B2 Intraocular lenses essentially free from glistenings
The present invention relates a method for manufacturing an intraocular lens in a closed mold, wherein an acrylic monomer composition containing a single high refractive index monomer according to formula (I): is polymerized by employing an initiator that is activated by light having a wavelength of 390 nm or more.
US09103960B1 Sign and display systems
A sign and display system including a faceplate, lens, backing plate, and at least one magnet is described. The faceplate includes a viewing aperture and the back of the faceplate includes a recess in which the at least one magnet is mounted. The recess in the faceplate is configured to receive the lens and backing plate. The lens may include one or more edge protrusions configured to enter one or more small recesses in the side of the faceplate recess to secure the lens to the faceplate. When the lens and backing plate are positioned in the recess of the faceplate, the one or more magnets exert a force on the backing plate to secure the faceplate and lens to the backing plate. An insert capable of displaying text and/or graphics can also be positioned between the lens and backing plate in the recess of the faceplate.
US09103956B2 Light emitting device with optical redundancy
An optically redundant light emitting device includes a light transmitting film comprising an array of coupling lightguides extending from a light emitting area defined within the light transmitting film. Each coupling lightguide is bent to form a stacked array of coupling lightguides. A first group of light sources comprising at least one light source is positioned to emit light into the stacked array of coupling lightguides, and a second group of light sources comprising at least one light source is positioned to emit light into the stacked array of coupling lightguides. A first optical path of the light emitted from the first group of light sources overlaps with a second optical path of the light from the second group of light sources in each coupling lightguide.
US09103951B2 Light guide plate, and method and mold for manufacturing the same
The present invention provides a light guide plate and a method and a mold for manufacturing the same. The light guide plate comprises at least one incident surface, an exiting surface and a bottom surface, the exiting surface and bottom surface being disposed facing to each other and both being connected to the incident surface, the light guide plate having a cavity formed therein, wherein light incident from the incident surface exits the exiting surface after refracted and/or reflected by the cavity. With the light guide plate, light energy loss can be reduced and brightness of pictures can be improved.
US09103948B2 Fiber bypass module and its adapted in-line equipment
A fiber bypass module and its adapted in-line equipment are provided. The fiber bypass module has an optical switch, a plurality of connectors, and a circuit substrate with an electrical signal control connector exposed. The electrical signal control connector may be plugged to the socket of the in-line equipment to receive the electrical control signal sent from the in-line equipment. The optical switch is provided on the circuit substrate and the electrical signal control connector is electrically connected with the optical switch such that the received electrical control signal is transmitted to the optical switch to execute the switching mode of the optical switch. Each of the plurality of connectors may be extended remotely to connect optical transceivers and optical network equipments, so that the optical transceivers and the fiber network equipments do not have to be provided at the same place as the in-line equipment.
US09103944B2 System and method for sonic wave measurements using an acoustic beam source
A method and system for investigating structure near a borehole are described herein. The method includes generating an acoustic beam by an acoustic source; directing at one or more azimuthal angles the acoustic beam towards a selected location in a vicinity of a borehole; receiving at one or more receivers an acoustic signal, the acoustic signal originating from a reflection or a refraction of the acoustic wave by a material at the selected location; and analyzing the received acoustic signal to characterize features of the material around the borehole.
US09103937B2 Systems and methods for holographic navigation
The systems and methods described herein relate to systems and methods for synthetic aperture sonar (SAS) or radar including high-frequency holographic navigation.
US09103935B2 Method of first arrival picking of seismic refraction data
The method of first arrival picking of seismic refraction data is embodied in software that uses the τ-p transform on energy-ratio seismic records. First, the seismic shots are gathered. Next, the energy ratio (ER) is computed, and then the τ-p transform of the energy ratio is computed. Using a binary mask, a corresponding first arrival energy is selected. The transform is combined with the binary mask and presented as input to an inverse τ-p transform. The inverse transform data is then thresholded, and indices of ER first arrivals are detected based on the thresholds. The software then creates a vector of indices or time samples of picks. This method can be used to better guide the subsequent careful picking of first arrivals. Moreover, the method automatically interpolates missing picks.
US09103934B2 Method for reducing marine source volume while maintaining image quality
A technique facilitates the acquisition of seismic data at a substantially reduced source volume. The methodology generally comprises conducting a seismic survey with seismic sources that have a reduced source volume to collect seismic data. The low frequency data which is lost due to the reduced source volume is replaced with data acquired from a complementary method, such as a receiver-side acquisition method. The two sets of data are combined to provide a comprehensive seismic survey image without requiring conventional seismic source volume.
US09103932B2 Method, apparatus, and system for examining optically a sample carried in a plurality of wells
An apparatus and method are disclosed for examining optically a sample carried in a plurality of wells. A holder is adapted to receive and hold in place a sample carrier. A plurality of excitation means selectively introduce excitation towards a spatially limited portion of a sample carrier held in place by said holder. Detecting means receive and detect emission radiation coupled out from a light output window of a sample carrier held in place by said holder. Said detecting means is common to said excitation means and is configured to receive emission radiation from a plurality of different spatially limited portions of a sample carrier held in place by said holder.
US09103931B2 Modular light curtain and optical unit for a light curtain
The present invention relates to a light curtain that comprises at least one first optical unit having a plurality of light emitting elements and light receiving elements and at least one second optical unit having a plurality of light emitting elements and light receiving elements, wherein said light emitting elements and light receiving elements are operable to form a light grid from a plurality of light barriers formed between opposing light emitting elements and light receiving elements. The first and second optical unit each comprise a transceiver unit carrying said plurality of light emitting elements and light receiving elements, and at least one separate detachable plug-in module, said first and second transceiver units being identically built and said first and second plug-in modules differing from each other in order to define the functionality of the first optical unit and the second optical unit, respectively.
US09103930B2 Sensor assembly
A multiple axis sensor assembly includes an enclosure and encapsulated microelectromechanical system (MEMS) sensors. The encapsulated sensors are disposed inside the enclosure and are mounted in different orientations, which correspond to different axes of the sensor assembly. A controller of the sensor assembly is disposed in the enclosure and electrically coupled to the MEMS sensors.
US09103929B2 Device for detecting the presence of an item in an examination object
A position-finding apparatus, particularly a handheld position-finding appliance, having a position-finding unit, is provided for the purpose of using a measurement signal to detect the presence of an article arranged in an examination object and which has a sensor unit, a computation unit, and a display unit. The computation unit associates differing sensor elements of the sensor unit with differing display points of the display unit in at least one dimension.
US09103926B2 Corrected porosity measurements of underground formations
This disclosure relates to methods and apparatuses for determining the porosity of a formation surrounding a borehole. A drilling fluid penetrates a distance into the formation as a function of time. First and second porosity measurements are taken, both at a first time and at a second time. The first porosity measurement is of a type selected to indicate a different porosity measurement in the presence of a gas as compared to the second porosity measurement. The first and second porosity measurements are selected to have substantially the same depth-of-investigation into the formation and are affected approximately proportionally by the gas.
US09103925B2 Radiation scanning and disabling of hazardous targets in containers
In one example, a method of examining a container is disclosed comprising detecting a potential threat within contents of a container using radiation scanning and disabling the potential threat with radiation. In another example, a method of examining a container is disclosed comprising scanning at least a portion of the container with a first radiation beam, detecting radiation interacting with contents of the container, identifying a potential threat contained based, at least in part, on the detected radiation, and disabling the potential threat with a dose of radiation from a second radiation beam. The potential threat may be a nuclear, chemical, and/or biological weapon, for example. Chemical and/or biological detectors may also be provided. The threat and/or electronics associated with the threat, may be disabled. Systems are also disclosed.
US09103923B2 X-ray imaging apparatus and X-ray imaging method
An X-ray imaging apparatus and an X-ray imaging method for use in the X-ray imaging apparatus are provided. The X-ray imaging apparatus includes a separating element configured to spatially separate an X-ray generated by an X-ray generator unit and a scintillator array including a plurality of first scintillators arranged therein, where the separated X-rays are made incident on the first scintillators. Each of the first scintillators is configured to vary an intensity of fluorescence induced by the X-ray in accordance with an incident position of the X-ray. The X-ray imaging apparatus further includes a detector configured to detect the intensity of fluorescence emitted from the scintillator array.
US09103921B2 Photonic crystal scintillators and methods of manufacture
Photonic crystal scintillators and their methods of manufacture are provided. Exemplary methods of manufacture include using a highly-ordered porous anodic alumina membrane as a pattern transfer mask for either the etching of underlying material or for the deposition of additional material onto the surface of a scintillator. Exemplary detectors utilizing such photonic crystal scintillators are also provided.
US09103920B2 Energy harvester for wireless, motion and position-sensing, integrating radiation sensor for occupational and environmental dosimetry
An apparatus comprising: a radiation sensor having one or more radiation sensors and an on-board power harvester.
US09103915B2 Reference oscillator management for wireless devices having position determination functionality
A method and device for managing a reference oscillator within a wireless device is presented. The method includes selecting reference oscillator parameters associated with the lowest reference oscillator error, where the selection is based upon reference oscillator parameters derived using different technologies within a wireless device, acquiring a satellite based upon the selected reference parameters, determining the quality of the satellite-based position fix, and updating the reference oscillator parameters based upon the quality of the satellite-based position fix. The wireless device includes a wireless communications system, a satellite positioning system (SPS) receiver, a reference oscillator connected to the wireless communications system and SPS receiver, and a mobile controller connected to the reference oscillator, SPS, and wireless communications system, and a memory connected to the mobile controller, where the memory stores a reference oscillator parameter table and instructions causing the mobile controller to execute the aforementioned method.
US09103911B2 Device for receiving signals which have carrier frequencies and codes
The device for receiving signals which have carrier frequencies and codes, said signals being navigation or communication signals, has multiple individual antennas (114) for receiving a signal, each individual antenna (114) having an antenna output (116) at which the received signal is present. Furthermore, the device is provided with an analog preprocessing unit (122) for preprocessing the signals received by the individual antennas (114), said preprocessing unit (122) having signal transmitting and signal preprocessing channels (124) which are assigned to the individual antennas (114), and the device is provided with a digital signal processor (134). The device additionally has a calibration signal generating unit (148) for generating a calibration signal which, like the signals received by the individual antennas (114), has a carrier frequency and a code and which is used for calibrating the propagation time and the phase of the signal transmission paths. Additionally, a reference frequency generating unit (150) is also provided that generates a reference frequency with which the analog preprocessing unit (122), the digital signal processor (134), and/or the calibration signal generating unit (148) can be operated and/or on the basis of which other operating frequencies with a specifiable relationship to the reference frequency can be generated in order to operate the analog preprocessing unit (122), the digital signal processor (134), and/or the calibration signal generating unit (148).
US09103907B2 System and method for tracking objects using lidar and video measurements
A system uses range and Doppler velocity measurements from a lidar system and images from a video system to estimate a six degree-of-freedom trajectory of a target. The system estimates this trajectory in two stages: a first stage in which the range and Doppler measurements from the lidar system along with various feature measurements obtained from the images from the video system are used to estimate first stage motion aspects of the target (i.e., the trajectory of the target); and a second stage in which the images from the video system and the first stage motion aspects of the target are used to estimate second stage motion aspects of the target. Once the second stage motion aspects of the target are estimated, a three-dimensional image of the target may be generated.
US09103905B2 Sonar system and impedance matching method thereof
This specification relates to an active SONAR system comprising a transmitter, a transducer and an impedance matching circuit for expanding bandwidth and increasing a power factor value in sound and ultrasonic wave bands by mutually matching resonant frequencies of the transducer and the impedance matching circuit or a resonant frequency between the transducer and the impedance matching circuit using an electrical equivalent model corresponding to actual impedance data of the transducer and controlling the positions and the intervals of the frequencies at which reactance components of the transducer including the impedance matching circuit become zero, and an impedance matching method thereof. This allows for efficient driving in a broadband between the transmitter and the transducer in the active SONAR system, contributing to output power performance and detection performance of the active SONAR system.
US09103903B2 Approaching vehicle detecting system and approaching vehicle detecting method
An approaching vehicle detecting system that detects an approaching vehicle on the basis of sounds collected by a plurality of sound collectors mounted on a host vehicle determines whether a transverse moving direction of a sound source detected by the plurality of sound collectors is a direction approaching the host vehicle, determines whether a vertical position of the sound source detected using the plurality of sound collectors is in the same plane as that of the host vehicle, and detects that sound source as the approaching vehicle when it is determined that the transverse moving direction of the sound source is the direction approaching the host vehicle and the vertical position of the sound source is in the same plane as that of the host vehicle.
US09103902B2 Packaged antenna and method for producing same
Electronic apparatus having an antenna chip with a substrate and an antenna structure, and a method of producing the same. The antenna chip is integrated or packaged in a package having a clip mounting surface for mounting the antenna chip, and an encapsulating material. The encapsulating material typically is a plastic mold used in the industrial packaging of integrated circuits. Between the antenna structure and the chip mounting surface, a first void is disposed in the substrate.
US09103899B2 Adaptive control of a personal electronic device responsive to a micro-impulse radar
In an embodiment, a personal electronic device includes a logic circuit and at least one micro-impulse radar operatively coupled to the personal electronic device. The micro-impulse radar is configured to probe a region near the personal electronic device to produce micro-impulse radar data. The logic circuit is configured to provide an operating parameter to the personal electronic device based on the micro-impulse radar data.
US09103897B2 Method for quasi-continuous dynamic motion correction in magnetic resonance measurements
A method of MR imaging and spectroscopy to reduce artifacts occurring due to the motion of an object to be represented, wherein the object position is determined quasi-continuously during the runtime of the MR acquisition, which includes one or more partial acquisitions (TA), and wherein motion correction is performed, which comprises dynamic adaptation of the frequency and phase settings of the RF system of the tomograph and of the orientation and amplitudes of the gradients during the runtime of the MR acquisition according to the current object position. The motion correction is thereby applied during a signal weighting period, during a signal read-out period, or between and/or during the two stated periods and the adaptations for motion correction are performed without interrupting or slowing the temporal progression of the MR acquisition. In this way, artifacts due to motion of the object to be represented can be further reduced.
US09103893B2 Voltage monitor semiconductor device, battery pack, and electronic device employing battery pack
A voltage monitor semiconductor device to monitor voltages of multiple rechargeable devices to output a detection result signal to indicate overcharge, over-discharge, or excess-current, the voltage monitor semiconductor device including multiple voltage input terminals, corresponding to the multiple rechargeable devices, to monitor the voltages of the corresponding rechargeable devices as monitor voltages; and a test signal generation circuit to generate a first test signal that inverts when at least one of the monitor voltages falls below a predetermined first threshold voltage that is not used normally as an abnormal state.
US09103892B2 Ground fault detector
A ground fault detector which does not need complicated circuitry and can detect a ground fault with high accuracy in conformity to a capacitance of a common mode capacitor is presented. Upon judging the ground fault on the basis of a threshold for a high-tension power supply system which is electrically isolated and mounted in a vehicle, a controller in a ground fault detector alters the threshold in conformity to a capacitance of a common mode capacitor of which value is different between a first state that a system main relay is ON and a second state that the system main relay is OFF, thereby judges the ground fault on the basis of the altered threshold. Thus the ground fault detector can adequately detect the ground fault in conformity to the capacitance of the common mode capacitor. Thus the detector can detect the ground fault with accuracy without complicated circuitry.
US09103884B2 De-embedding on-wafer devices
A transmission line is provided. In one embodiment, the transmission line comprises a substrate, a well within the substrate, a shielding layer over the well, and a plurality of intermediate metal layers over the shielding layer, the plurality of intermediate metal layers coupled by a plurality of vias. The transmission line further includes a top metal layer over the plurality of intermediate metal layers. A test structure for de-embedding an on-wafer device, and a wafer are also disclosed.
US09103881B2 Operating scan path generators and compactors sequentially and capturing simultaneously
A Scan-BIST architecture is adapted into a low power Scan-BIST architecture. A generator 102, compactor 106, and controller 110 remain the same as in the known art. The changes between the known art Scan-BIST architecture and the low power Scan-BIST architecture involve modification of the known scan path into scan path 502, to insert scan paths A 506, B 508 and C 510, and the insertion of an adaptor circuit 504 in the control path 114 between controller 110 and scan path 502.
US09103880B2 On-chip probe circuit for detecting faults in an FPGA
An integrated programmable logic circuit having a read/write probe includes a plurality of programmable logic circuits having internal circuit nodes and a plurality of flip flops, each having an asynchronous data input line, an asynchronous load line, and a data output connected to an internal circuit node, a probe-data line, an address circuit for selecting one of the internal circuit nodes, a read-probe enable line for selectively coupling the selected one of the internal circuit nodes to the probe-data line, a data input path to the asynchronous data input line of each flip flop, a write-probe data input path to the asynchronous data input line of each flip flop, a write-probe enable line, and selection circuitry, responsive to the address circuit and the write-probe enable line, to couple one of the data input path and the write-probe data input path to the asynchronous data input of a selected flip flop.
US09103878B2 Method for scan testing three-dimensional chip
A method for scan testing a three-dimensional chip, comprising: establishing a scan forest structure for the three-dimensional chip; generating a first test set and a plurality of test periods, and dividing the first test set into a plurality of test subsets; distributing test vectors in the plurality of test subsets into the plurality of test periods; obtaining a current hotspot of the three-dimensional chip; ranking the plurality of test subsets in accordance with an order of temperature rising values from small to large to obtain a test vector strategy; selecting the test subsets corresponding to the temperature rising values less than a temperature threshold from the plurality of test subsets according to the test vector strategy, so as to generate a second test set; and applying the second test set to the scan forest structure, and updating the current hotspot of the three-dimensional chip.
US09103877B2 Apparatus and method for IDDQ tests
A method for conducting IDDQ tests for a device having a plurality of test sites is disclosed. The method includes identifying voltage ranges for each of the plurality of test sites, closing a switch in each of a plurality of voltage drop setup circuits, and setting each of the plurality of test sites to one of a plurality of logic states. Each of the plurality of voltage drop setup circuits includes a resistor parallelly coupled to the switch. One terminal of each voltage drop setup circuit is coupled to a voltage source and the other terminal of each voltage drop setup circuit is coupled to respective tester channels of each of the plurality of test sites. After opening the switch in each of the plurality of voltage drop setup circuits, the voltage drop across the resistor in each voltage drop setup circuit is measured.
US09103876B2 Automatic probe configuration station and method therefor
A probe system for facilitating the inspection of a device under test. System incorporates a storage rack; a probe bar gantry assembly; a probe assembly configured to electrically mate the device under test; and a robot system for picking the probe assembly from the storage rack and deliver the probe assembly to the probe bar gantry. The robot system is also enabled to pick a probe assembly from the probe bar gantry and deliver the probe assembly to the storage rack. The probe assembly includes a clamping assembly for attaching the probe assembly to the probe bar gantry or the storage rack. The probe assembly may include an array of contact pins configured to mate with conductive pads on the device under test when the probe assembly is installed on the probe bar gantry assembly.
US09103875B2 Probe-able voltage contrast test structures
Test structures and method for detecting defects using the same. A probe-able voltage contrast (VC) comb test structure that includes first, second and third probe pads, a comb-like structure including grounded tines, floating tines between the grounded tines, switching devices coupled with an end portion of each floating tine, and connecting the floating tines to the second probe pad, and the third probe pad being a control pad which controls the switching devices. A probe-able VC serpentine test structure that includes first, second, third and fourth probe pads, a comb-like structure including grounded tines, floating tines between the grounded tines and each floating tine connected together between the second and third probe pads, switching devices connected to an end portion of each floating tine and connecting the floating tines to the second and third probe pads, and the fourth probe pad being a control pad which controls the switching devices.
US09103871B2 High throughput quantum efficiency combinatorial characterization tool and method for combinatorial solar test substrates
Simultaneous measurement of an internal quantum efficiency and an external quantum efficiency of a solar cell using an emitter that emits light; a three-way beam splitter that splits the light into solar cell light and reference light, wherein the solar cell light strikes the solar cell; a reference detector that detects the reference light; a reflectance detector that detects reflectance light, wherein the reflectance light comprises a portion of the solar cell light reflected off the solar cell; a source meter operatively coupled to the solar cell; a multiplexer operatively coupled to the solar cell, the reference detector, and the reflectance detector; and a computing device that simultaneously computes the internal quantum efficiency and the external quantum efficiency of the solar cell.
US09103870B2 Inspection apparatus and inspection method
An inspection apparatus inspects a photovoltaic cell panel in which the photo device is formed. The inspection apparatus includes: an irradiation part that irradiates the photovoltaic cell panel with pulsed light (pump light) emitted from a femtosecond laser; a detecting part that detects an electromagnetic wave pulse, which is generated from the photovoltaic cell panel according to the irradiation of the pump light; and a continuous light irradiation part that irradiates a portion, which is irradiated with the pump light in the photovoltaic cell panel, with continuous light.
US09103867B2 Apparatus and method for detecting the abnormal soldering of an electrostatic discharge protection chip
The present invention provides an apparatus for detecting the abnormal soldering of an electrostatic discharge protection chip, comprising a connector, which is used for pluggable connection with a signal input terminal connector of an application specific integrated circuit chip (ASIC) of a liquid crystal display; a detecting circuit, which is set on the connector, used to detect if the electrostatic discharge protection chip is properly soldered on the ASIC and prompt when the abnormal soldering of the electrostatic discharge protection chip is detected. Accordingly, the present invention also provides a method for detecting the abnormal soldering of an electrostatic discharge protection chip. According to the present invention, the abnormal soldering of an electrostatic discharge protection chip can be detected quickly with high accuracy, which can save the cost of manpower and resources, as well as to reduce the loss resulted from the defective rate of the finished product assembly.
US09103865B2 Methods for locating ground faults and insulation degradation condition in energy conversion systems
Methods for determining a ground fault or insulation degradation condition within energy conversion systems are described. A method for determining a ground fault within an energy conversion system may include, in part, a comparison of baseline waveform of differential current to a waveform of differential current during operation for a plurality of DC current carrying conductors in an energy conversion system. A method for determining insulation degradation within an energy conversion system may include, in part, a comparison of baseline frequency spectra of differential current to a frequency spectra of differential current transient at start-up for a plurality of DC current carrying conductors in an energy conversion system. In one embodiment, the energy conversion system may be a photovoltaic system.
US09103860B2 System for measuring electrical charge
A system for measuring electrical charge, comprising a capacitance detector (110) connected to a charge integrator (120) being an operational amplifier with a capacitance feedback (130), in which the input stage (121) of the charge integrator (120) comprises a pair of symmetrically connected JFET-type transistors (T1; T2), having gates connected to the input of the charge integrator (120).
US09103858B2 Capacitance sensing apparatus and touch screen apparatus
There is provided a capacitance sensing apparatus including a driving circuit unit applying a driving signal to a first capacitor at a predetermined interval; and a sensing circuit unit sensing a change in capacitance generated by the first capacitor based on the driving signal, in which a portion of a plurality of switches included in the sensing circuit unit operate at a first interval, the same as the interval of the driving signal, and remaining switches among the plurality of switches operate at a second interval, different from the first interval.
US09103851B2 Method and device for calibrating acceleration and force sensors
The stimulation of waves in bars, in particular at high amplitudes, is used for the calibration of acceleration and force sensors. A method and a device for calibrating acceleration and force sensors employing a Hopkinson bar for controlled influencing of the signal form, the signal amplitude and the pulse duration of the signals over a large amplitude range, is provided. A reference sensor and the sensor for calibration are arranged on the Hopkinson bar. At the end of the Hopkinson bar opposite the sensors, the stimulation is carried out by an electromechanical actuator for converting an electrical signal into a mechanical force. The electromechanical actuator may be controlled by a control and regulation electronic circuit. A targeted influence and change in the acceleration and force pulse form can be achieved.
US09103847B2 Variable reluctance sensor interface with integration based arming threshold
An interface for processing a variable reluctance sensor signal provided by a variable reluctance sensor including an integrator, an arming comparator and a detect circuit. The integrator includes an input for receiving the variable reluctance sensor signal and an output providing an integrated signal indicative of total flux change of the variable reluctance sensor. The arming comparator compares the integrated signal with a predetermined arming threshold and provides an armed signal indicative thereof. The detect circuit provides a reset signal after the armed signal is provided to reset the integrator. A corresponding method of processing the variable reluctance sensor signal is also described.
US09103845B2 System and method for reducing offset variation in multifunction sensor devices
Systems and methods are provided for improved multifunction sensing. In these embodiments a multifunction sensing device (100) includes a microelectromechanical (MEMS) gyroscope (110) and at least a second sensor (112). The MEMS gyroscope (110) is configured to generate a first clock signal, and the second sensor includes a second clock signal. The multifunction sensing device further includes a reset mechanism (114), the reset mechanism (114) configured to generate a reset signal to set the relative periodic phase alignment of the second clock signal to the first clock signal. Consistently setting the relative periodic phase alignment of the clocks for the other sensor devices (112) to the clock of the MEMS gyroscope (110) can improve the performance of the devices by reducing the probability that varying output offsets will occur in the multiple sensing devices.
US09103842B2 Methods for rejuvenating red blood cells
Methods for transfusing blood to a mammalian subject. The method includes obtaining a unit of blood, rejuvenating the blood with an enhancement composition, measuring 2,3-DPG concentration of the blood, and delivering the blood to a subject.
US09103838B2 Apparatus and methods for separating and analyzing components in fluids
Provided are methods and devices for separating particulate analytes or aggregates of analytes from a fluid, after the separation medium of the device is saturated with the fluid. The endpoint indicating completion of the separation is determined by saturation; therefore, no precise metering of the fluid sample is necessary. The separated analyte of interest can be detected, quantitated or its migration measured in the separation medium. The measured property of the analyte can then be correlated with a parameter of interest. In some embodiments, the device can be marked to directly read the value of the parameter of interest. In one embodiment, the fluid is blood and the device includes a volumetric capillary reservoir for collecting the blood, a separation paper or indicator strip, and graduations for correlating the migration of red blood cells with hematocrit or hemoglobin concentration. The interface of red blood cells and plasma creates a readable marking that corresponds to percent hematocrit and can be read from the graduations.
US09103833B2 Use of the GTPase Rab27B to diagnose and treat poor prognosis estrogen-receptor-positive breast cancer
The present invention relates to evaluating the prognosis of patients with estrogen receptor-positive breast cancer on the basis of Rab27B expression. The invention further relates to a kit comprising an assay for measuring Rab27B levels in said patients and to the usage of Rab27B as a target to screen for drugs capable of inhibiting or diminishing metastasis of said cancer. Furthermore, the invention discloses compounds which can be used to treat estrogen receptor-positive breast cancer.
US09103829B2 Methods and compositions for detecting fungi and mycotoxins
The invention relates to a method of identifying a specific fungal species in patient tissue or body fluid. The method comprises the steps of extracting and recovering DNA of the fungal species from the patient tissue or body fluid, amplifying the DNA, hybridizing a probe to the DNA to specifically identify the fungal species, and specifically identifying the fungal species. The invention also relates to a method of identifying a mycotoxin in patient tissue or body fluid. The method comprises the steps of extracting and recovering the mycotoxin from the patient tissue or body fluid, contacting the mycotoxin with an antibody directed against the mycotoxin, and identifying the myocotoxin. Both of these methods can be used to determine if a patient is at risk for or has developed a disease state related to a fungal infection, and to develop an effective treatment regimen for the patient.
US09103826B2 Methods and biomarkers for the detection of dengue hemorrhagic fever
The present invention provides methods for detecting, analyzing, and identifying biomolecules used to identifying patient with dengue-like symptom who are at risk of DHF. The inventive method comprises detecting in a sample from a subject dengue infected patient one or more biomarkers selected from the group consisting of IL-10, fibrinogen, C4A, immunoglobulin, tropomyosin, and three isoforms of albumin, and which are used in a predictive MARS model to detect patients with risk of developing DHF.
US09103821B2 Methods related to modified glycans
Among other things, the present disclosure provides methods for enriching, identifying, and/or quantifying unusually modified glycans (e.g., phosphorylated glycans, sulfated glycans, and/or multi-acetylated glycans). In many embodiments, methods comprise providing a glycan preparation from which sialic acids have been released; subjecting the sialidase-treated glycan preparation to a separation technique that separates glycans based on charge-to-mass ratio; and quantifying the charged products using at least one quantification standard.
US09103819B2 Peripheral zone tumor cells, methods for their preparation and use
The present invention relates to a tumor cell of the peripheral zone of a tumor and methods of providing such a tumor cell. Further provided is a method for identifying a molecular marker diagnostic for an infiltrative cancer, an antibody, which specifically binds to such molecular marker, a method for identifying a therapeutic compound effective against a metastatic/infiltrative cancer disease and the use of a tumor cell according to the invention.
US09103812B2 Photo-coupled data acquisition system and method
The photo-coupled data acquisition system can have a container having a contour wall extending upwardly from a closed bottom, for containing a sample therein, a light emitter operable to emit diffused light into the container at an initial intensity, a photodetector operable to detect a reflected intensity of the diffused light, and a structure connected to the contour wall and holding the light emitter and the photodetector at a predetermined height above the bottom of the container and in an orientation facing inside the container, wherein during operation of the system, the initial light intensity is attenuated by the sample and the reflected intensity thereof can be correlated to an information value concerning a variable of interest of the sample.
US09103810B2 Sealing structure for liquid passage connection part
When a sealing member held in a cavity of a housing is pressed by a cap toward the bottom of the cavity, the side surface of the sealing member is inclined to laterally expand. As a result, in the opening-side portion of the sealing member, the side surface is strongly pressed on the wall surface of the cavity, causing a strong friction force at the contact surface, which prevents the pressing force applied from the opening side from being transmitted to the bottom side. Therefore, at the beginning of the pressing operation, the internal stress of the sealing member is higher in the opening-side portion than in the bottom-side portion. With the lapse of time from the beginning of the pressing operation, the opening-side portion of the sealing member under the higher internal stress gradually moves toward the bottom side against the friction force.
US09103807B2 Rack collecting unit and sample processing apparatus
A rack collecting unit including: a transport path capable of transporting a sample rack in a first direction; a transport path capable of transporting the sample rack in a second direction opposite to the first direction; a storing section for storing therein the sample rack; and a transferring section for transferring the sample rack carried onto the transport paths to the storing section.
US09103801B2 Device for detecting defect of turbine rotor blade and method for detecting defect of turbine rotor blade
In a defect detection device for a turbine rotor blade, a recess is provided in a side surface of a web provided to the inner circumferential side of a stationary blade diaphragm where stationary blades are annularly arranged adjacent to turbine rotor blades. An eddy current probe is movably installed in the recess, and a rod provided with a signal line for transmitting a signal detected by the eddy current probe, connected to the eddy current prove, is set up to be movable through a hole in a turbine casing and an air gap formed in the stationary blade diaphragm. The eddy current probe is moved toward or away from the turbine rotor blade implanting portion, and a data analyzer determines the condition of a defect occurred in the turbine rotor blade implanting portion based on the signals detected by the eddy current probe.
US09103800B2 System with multiple scattered light collectors
A method for inspecting a surface of a workpiece for asymmetric defects, by scanning an incident beam on the surface of the workpiece to impinge thereon to create reflected light extending along a light channel axis in a front quartersphere and scattered light, the incident beam and the light channel axis defining an incident plane, collecting the scattered light at a plurality of collectors disposed above the surface at defined locations such that scatter from asymmetric defects is collectable by at least one collector, detecting collector output and generating signals in response, and processing the signals associated with each collector individually to obtain information about asymmetric defects.
US09103796B2 Multi-layered devices for analyte detection
A multi-layered device for detecting the presence or absence of an analyte within a test sample is described. The device includes a sensing layer and a control layer. The sensing layer is configured to support a reaction so as to exhibit a signal indicative of the presence or absence of the analyte in the test sample. The control layer is in fluid communication with and vertically adjacent to the sensing layer and includes a reagent capable of inhibiting the reaction and/or other unwanted side reactions at the sensing layer after a certain period of time by diffusive movement of the reagent from the control layer to the sensing layer.
US09103795B2 Method of operating an optochemical sensor
An optochemical sensing device has source that emits radiation of a first and a second predetermined intensity, a detector, and a sensitive element that comprises a signal substance. To measure an analyte in a measurement medium, the sensitive element is contacted with the analyte. A first raw signal, which is dependent on the analyte content is obtained by exciting the signal substance with radiation of the first predetermined intensity. At a later time, a second raw signal is also obtained. A comparison of the raw signals yields a comparison value, which is compared against a predetermined limit value. If the comparison value exceeds the limit value, the radiation source is set at the first intensity. If the comparison value is smaller than the limit value, the radiation source is set at the lower second intensity. Using the lower radiation intensity prolongs the life of the sensitive element.
US09103794B2 Substrates, devices, and methods for quantitative liquid crystal assays
The present invention relates to the field of molecular diagnostics, and in particular to diagnostics based on a liquid crystal assay format. In particular, the present invention provided improved substrates and methods of using liquid crystal assays for quantitating the amount of an analyte in a sample. The present invention also provides materials and methods for detecting non-specific binding of an analyte to a substrate by using a liquid crystal assay format.
US09103793B2 Intrinsic Raman spectroscopy
The present invention relates to systems and methods for the measurement of analytes such as glucose. Raman and reflectance spectroscopy are used to measure a volume, of material such as a blood sample or tissue within a subject and determine a concentration of a blood analyte based thereon. The present invention further relates to a calibration method, constrained regularization (CR), and demonstrates its use for analyzing spectra including, for example, the measurement glucose concentrations using transcutaneous Raman spectroscopy.
US09103791B1 Thallium fluorescent ion indicator and assay
Disclosed are fluorescent indicators and methods for detecting the activity of an ion channel or transporter in a cell. The indicators and methods may be used to measure influx or efflux of thallium through an ion channel or a transporter.
US09103783B2 Ionization method and apparatus including applying converged shock waves to a spray
A sample solution containing a sample component is sprayed onto an atmosphere at atmospheric approximately pressure while being applied with electric charge from the tip of a nozzle (1). A sample molecule is released as an ion in a process where charged minute liquid droplets collide with an atmospheric gas and are broken apart, and a solvent is vaporized from the respective liquid droplets. A reflectron (7) in the shape of a half-cut spheroid is arranged in such a manner that a second focal point (F2) is positioned in front of an ion-introducing portion (4) in the spray flow. A discharge electrode (8) is disposed in a position at a first focal point (F1) of the reflectron (7). When pulsed high voltage is applied to the discharge electrode (8), an electric discharge occurs, causing shock waves to be generated. The shock waves reflected on the reflectron (7) are converged on the second focal point (F2). Due to the converged shock waves, the vicinity of the second focal point (F2) rises to a high temperature, and a large pressure is also applied thereto. Therefore, vaporization of a solvent from the respective liquid droplets is further accelerated, allowing an ion to be easily generated. In addition, direct ionization can be expected. This makes it possible to improve ion generation efficiency.
US09103782B2 Automatic isothermal titration microcalorimeter apparatus and method of use
Automated isothermal titration micro calorimetry (ITC) system comprising a micro calorimeter with a sample cell and a reference cell, the sample cell is accessible via a sample cell stem and the reference cell is accessible via a reference cell stem. The system further comprises an automatic pipette assembly comprising a syringe with a titration needle arranged to be inserted into the sample cell for supplying titrant, the pipette assembly comprises an activator for driving a plunger in the syringe, a pipette translation unit supporting the pipette assembly and being arranged to place pipette in position for titration, washing and filling operations, a wash station for the titrant needle, and a cell preparation unit arranged to perform operations for replacing the sample liquid in the sample cell when the pipette is placed in another position than the position for titration.
US09103778B2 Image-based refractive index measuring system
An image-based refractive index measuring system comprises an optical device and an electronic device. The optical device is used to guiding an external light which is passed through an analyte. The electronic device comprises an image capture module, an image analyze module and a display module. The image capture module generates a first image by capturing the external light source. The image analyze module connects to the image capture module to receive the first image, and analyzes the first image in order to generate an analytical result comprising the refractive index of the analyte. The display module connects to the image analyze module to receive and display the analytical result.
US09103776B2 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.
US09103775B2 Nano-electronic sensors for chemical and biological analytes, including capacitance and bio-membrane devices
Embodiments of nanoelectronic sensors are described, including sensors for detecting analytes inorganic gases, organic vapors, biomolecules, viruses and the like. A number of embodiments of capacitive sensors having alternative architectures are described. Particular examples include integrated cell membranes and membrane-like structures in nanoelectronic sensors.
US09103771B2 Device for quantifying the degassing of a piece of equipment arranged in a vacuum chamber
A device for quantifying the degassing of a piece of equipment placed in a vacuum chamber includes a metal blade made from a ferromagnetic material including a fixed end and a free end, the blade being provided with a cooling device and a device for measuring an intrinsic temperature of the blade; an electromagnet for exciting the blade; and a measurement sensor for measuring the excitation of the free end of the blade connected to a device for acquiring measurements and for calculating at least one oscillation frequency of the free end of the blade, the acquisition and calculation device being connected to a device for calculating a surface density of a mass deposited on the blade.
US09103770B2 Determination of isoelectric points of biomolecules using capacitive sensors
A mechanism is provided for determining an isoelectric point of a molecule. A first group of capacitance versus voltage curves of a capacitor is measured. The capacitor includes a substrate, dielectric layer, and conductive solution. The first group of curves is measured for pH values of the solution without the molecule bound to a functionalized material on the dielectric layer of the capacitor. A second group of capacitance versus voltage curves of the capacitor is measured when the molecule is present in the solution, where the molecule is bound to the functionalized material of the dielectric layer of the capacitor. A shift is determined in the second group of curves from the first group of curves at each pH value. The isoelectric point of the molecule is determined by extrapolating a pH value corresponding to a shift voltage being zero, when the shift is compared to the pH values.
US09103769B2 Apparatus and methods for controlling electron microscope stages
Methods and apparatus for generating an image of a specimen with a microscope (e.g., TEM) are disclosed. In one aspect, the microscope may generally include a beam generator, a stage, a detector, and an image generator. A plurality of crystal parameters, which describe a plurality of properties of a crystal sample, are received. In a display associated with the microscope, an interactive control sphere based at least in part on the received crystal parameters and that is rotatable by a user to different sphere orientations is presented. The sphere includes a plurality of stage coordinates that correspond to a plurality of positions of the stage and a plurality of crystallographic pole coordinates that correspond to a plurality of polar orientations of the crystal sample. Movement of the sphere causes movement of the stage, wherein the stage coordinates move in conjunction with the crystallographic coordinates represented by pole positions so as to show a relationship between stage positions and the pole positions.
US09103764B2 Method and system for determining the time-of-flight of an acoustic signal
A method of estimating the time and flight of an acoustic signal transmitted by a transmit acoustic transducer determines a difference in time between receiving the transmitted acoustic signal and receiving an electromagnetic wave transmitted by the transmit acoustic transducer coincident with transmitting the acoustic signal.
US09103763B2 System and method for detection of foreign substances
A sensing unit is presented for use in identifying at least one foreign substance in a region of interest. The sensing unit comprises at least one measurement unit, which comprises one or more sensor elements each configured and operable to be responsive to at least one foreign substance in the vicinity thereof. Each sensor element is mounted in its own compartment having an inlet and an outlet thus defining an environmental region in the vicinity of the sensor element separated from the surroundings of the compartment.
US09103761B2 Methods and devices for electronic sensing
The presence of a detectable entity within a detection volume of a microfabricated elastomeric structure is sensed through a change in the electrical or magnetic environment of the detection volume. In embodiments utilizing electronic detection, an electric field is applied to the detection volume and a change in impedance, current, or combined impedance and current due to the presence of the detectable entity is measured. In embodiments utilizing magnetic detection, the magnetic properties of a magnetized detected entity alter the magnetic field of the detection volume. This changed magnetic field induces a current which can reveal the detectable entity. The change in resistance of a magnetoresistive element may also reveal the passage of a magnetized detectable entity.
US09103757B2 Laser capture microdissection (LCM) extraction device and device carrier, and method for post-LCM fluid processing
The present invention generally discloses an extraction system that provides a locale for fluid processing and extraction on a post-microcapture transfer film. The extraction system includes a transfer film carrier and an extraction device forming a reservoir. The extraction system selectively excludes regions of the transfer film from the reservoir to advantageously reduce contamination due to matter adhered to the transfer film by non-specific transfer.
US09103751B2 Device for transversely supporting a longitudinal test tube, and equipment for determining the mechanical bending properties of such a test tube
A device for the transverse retention of a longitudinal test specimen and apparatus for the mechanical characterization in bending of such a test specimen. The test specimen includes a web and at least one main flange connected to one end of said web. The device includes a body in which there is formed a housing which is shaped to house said test specimen transversally and which has a main bearing face against which one face of said web is intended to press; and a mobile clamp formed so as to press said web against said main bearing face.
US09103747B2 Vehicular dynamic ride simulation system using a human biofidelic manikin and a seat pressure distribution sensor array
A system that generates a dynamic seating body pressure distribution data includes a seat and a stimulus applying mechanism that is adapted to apply a stimulus to the seat. A human biofidelic manikin is provided on the seat. A seat pressure distribution sensor array is responsive to the human biofidelic manikin for generating a dynamic seating body pressure distribution data when the stimulus applying mechanism applies a stimulus to the seat.
US09103745B2 Method of detecting nitrogen compounds contained in exhaust gases, notably of internal-combustion engines
A method of detecting nitrogen compound emissions in exhaust gases treated with selective catalytic reduction achieved by injecting a reducing agent into the gases and by passing these gases through a catalyst include sending the signal collected by a gas detector arranged in the exhaust gas downstream from the catalyst and representative of the amount of NOx (NOxsonde) at the catalyst outlet to a computing unit, decomposing this signal into a value representative of the effective NOx amount (NOxréel) at the outlet of catalyst established by the SCR catalyst model, into a detector perturbation coefficient (k) and into a value representative of the ammonia amount (NH3réel) via an integrated model so as to obtain NOxsonde=NOxréel+k.NH3réel, evaluating coefficient (k) from this decomposition, and determining the presence of nitrogen compounds downstream from the catalyst when coefficient (k) is greater than or equal to 1.
US09103741B2 Methods and systems for assessing residual life of turbomachine airfoils
Methods, systems and computer program products for assessing residual life of an airfoil, which would experience high cycle fatigue failure under at- or near-resonance vibration condition, are provided. The method includes receiving, at a processing system, at least one vibration response parameter associated with the airfoil. The method processes at least one cracked airfoil finite element model. Processing the cracked airfoil finite element model includes accessing the cracked airfoil finite element model, computing a modal stress intensity factor (SIF) of the cracked airfoil finite element model using fracture mechanics based finite element analysis, and computing a vibratory SIF based, at least in part, on the modal SIF and the at least one vibration response parameter. The method then computes a residual life indicator of the airfoil based, at least in part, on the vibratory SIF.
US09103738B2 Capacitive pressure sensor with intrinsic temperature compensation
Pressure sensors and their methods of use are described. In one embodiment, a pressure sensor includes a probe body and a capacitive sensor disposed at a distal end of the probe body. The capacitive sensor produces a sensing capacitance. The pressure sensor also includes a shunt capacitance. In the described pressure sensor, a change in the sensing capacitance due to dimensional changes associated with a temperature change is offset by a corresponding change in the shunt capacitance.
US09103732B2 User computer device with temperature sensing capabilities and method of operating same
A user computer device is provided that comprises a temperature sensitive touchscreen having a temperature sensitive user interface comprising multiple thermal energy emitter/detector devices, such as thermocouples. The multiple thermal energy emitter/detector devices are capable both of detecting thermal energy and emitting thermal energy. The temperature sensitive user interface generates thermal patterns that may be transferred to other thermally sensitive electronic devices or that may be used to authenticate the user computer device. The user computer device also can detect and thermally communicate with a thermal energy docking station and, based on thermal recognition, activate applications displayed on the temperature sensitive touchscreen. Further, the user computer device can auto-bias a temperature of the temperature sensitive user interface in order to better assure proper operation of the temperature sensitive user interface in all operating conditions.
US09103728B2 System and method of a personal enhancing color selection
A personal enhancing color selection system and method, in which a selected reflective material, preferably in the form of a fabric or woven drape, is placed near the face or skin surface of a subject person. The selected reflective material has a metallic sheen when reflecting an ambient light source. The selected reflective fabric material is either a silver-hued material, a copper-hued material, or a gold-hued material. The incident light from the ambient light source imparts a reflected light onto the skin surface, with the copper material imparting a copper toned reflected light, the silver-hued material imparting silver toned reflected light, and the gold material imparting a gold toned reflected light. A visual determination of an aesthetically appealing augmentation to the skin surface is made, to recommend haircoloring, clothing colors and makeup selections that will likewise produce a positively enhanced appearance of the subject person of the color analysis.
US09103726B2 Stimulated raman scattering detection apparatus
The stimulated Raman scattering detection apparatus includes first and second light pulse generators (1, 2) respectively generating first and second light pulses with first and second pulse periods, an optical system combining the first and second light pulses and focusing the combined light pulses onto a sample, and a detector (10) detecting the second light pulses intensity-modulated by stimulated Raman scattering generated by focusing of the combined light pulses onto the sample. The second light pulse generator divides each raw light pulse emitted with the second pulse period into two light pulses, delays one of the two light pulse with respect to the other thereof and combines the one light pulse divided from one raw light pulse and delayed, with the other light pulse divided from another raw light pulse emitted after the one raw light pulse, to generate the second light pulse.
US09103721B2 High speed microscope with spectral resolution
A system and method of high-speed microscopy using a two-photon microscope with spectral resolution. The microscope is operable to provide two- to five-dimensional fluorescence images of samples, including two or three spatial dimensions, a spectral dimension (for fluorescence emission), and a temporal dimension (on a scale of less than approximately one second). Two-dimensional (spatial) images with a complete wavelength spectrum are generated from a single scan of a sample. The microscope may include one of a multi-beam point scanning microscope, a single beam line scanning microscope, and a multi-beam line scanning microscope. The line scans may be formed using one or more of curved mirrors and lenses. The multiple beams may be formed using one of a grating, an array of lenses, and a beam splitter.
US09103720B2 Methods for assaying polymers using an integrated computational element
Various molecular characteristics of a polymer may be determined using an integrated computational element to assay the polymer. Methods for assaying a polymer can comprise optically interacting electromagnetic radiation with a polymer and an integrated computational element; and determining a molecular characteristic of the polymer, using the integrated computational element. The molecular characteristic of the polymer may be used to determine a bulk characteristic of a fluid phase in which the polymer may be disposed.
US09103718B2 Optical analysis device and optical analysis method using a wavelength characteristic of light of a single light-emitting particle
The inventive technique of detecting and analyzing light from a light-emitting particle in accordance with the scanning molecule counting method using an optical measurement with a confocal microscope or a multiphoton microscope is characterized by detecting intensities of components of two or more wavelength bands of light from a light detection region of an optical system with moving the position of the light detection region in a sample solution by changing the optical path of the optical system of the microscope; detecting individually signals of the light from each light-emitting particle in the intensities of the components of the two or more wavelength bands of the detected light; and identifying a kind of light-emitting particle based on the intensities of the components of the two or more wavelength bands of the signals of the light of the detected light-emitting particle.
US09103716B2 Handheld characteristic analyzer and methods of using the same
Disclosed is a portable handheld characteristic analyzer used to analyze chemical compositions in or near real-time. The analyzer may include a portable housing, at least one optical computing device arranged within the portable housing for monitoring a sample, the at least one optical computing device having at least one integrated computational element configured to optically interact with the sample and thereby generate optically interacted light, at least one detector arranged to receive the optically interacted light and generate an output signal corresponding to a characteristic of the sample, and a signal processor communicably coupled to the at least one detector for receiving the output signal, the signal processor being configured to determine the characteristic of the sample and provide a resulting output signal indicative of the characteristic of the sample.
US09103714B2 System and methods for explosives detection using SWIR
A system and method for detecting explosives and explosive residues. A region of interest is surveyed using a video capture device to thereby identify a target area wherein the target area comprises an unknown material. The target area is interrogated using SWIR spectroscopic methods to form a SWIR hyperspectral image of the target area. The SWIR hyperspectral image is analyzed to thereby identify the unknown material.
US09103708B2 Adjustable measuring device
The moveable dam structure of an adjustable measuring device such as a spoon or scoop has a structure molded of a single material with thin flexible curved edges which fit into the internal walls of the housing to provide increased surface contact without co-molding or other assembly of a separate edge seal onto the moveable dam. The moveable dam is molded in a single step of a single thermoplastic material to give the dam a tapered cross-sectional shape with the inner portion thicker than the outer edges, with curved edges forming angles substantially different from 90° when bearing against the internal walls of the measuring container.
US09103705B2 Combined environmental parameter sensor
A combination sensor and corresponding method of measuring a plurality of environmental parameters uses a pressure sensor disposed on an integrated circuit die; a humidity sensor disposed on the integrated circuit die; and a circuit coupled to and shared by the pressure sensor and the humidity sensor to facilitate pressure and humidity sensing.
US09103703B2 Container having a sensor adapter
A container having a sensor adapter for receiving a sensor arrangement for measuring at least one parameter of media contained in a container interior, wherein the sensor adapter is arranged on the wall to the container interior and has an externally accessible receiving opening in a receiving channel, which is bounded toward the container interior, for adapting the sensor arrangement, wherein toward the container interior the receiving channel in the sensor adapter has at least one boundary surface which is formed by a membrane and via which the medium or media to be measured can be supplied to the sensor arrangement.
US09103702B2 Fastening device for fastening an assembly in an opening of a wall of a vehicle
A fastening device for fastening an assembly in an opening of a wall of a vehicle includes a supporting element to be placed on the vehicle wall and a retaining element having at least one retaining wing that fastens the device in the vehicle wall opening. The retaining element is rotatable relative to the supporting element between fastened and unfastened positions. For a tool-free mounting and fastening, the retaining element further includes a graspable rotating wing that has a grasping surface which is inclined at an angle in the direction of rotation, whereby the manual grasping force applied by the installer exerts a force component in a rotational direction to rotate the retaining element, and a force component in an axial direction to press the fastening device against the vehicle wall. Preferably the wing includes a wing wall and reinforcing webs.
US09103701B2 Assembly for connecting a measuring instrument to a container containing the medium to be measured
The invention relates to an assembly, in particular for measuring a process variable, which consists of a measuring instrument having a process connection and a housing, which is partially rotationally symmetrical at least in the region of the process connection, and of an adapter having a through-hole, which extends in the axial direction, and a sealing web in the through-hole. The measuring instrument and the adapter are connected to each other in a releasable and sealed manner via two sealing surfaces. According to the invention, at least one of the sealing surfaces then has a coating composed of parylene. The invention furthermore relates to an assembly for the releasable and sealed connection of two medium-carrying parts, in particular pipelines.
US09103700B2 Measuring apparatus and method, processing apparatus and method, pattern forming apparatus and method, exposure apparatus and method, and device manufacturing method
Position information of a movable body within an XY plane is measured with high accuracy by an encoder system whose measurement values have favorable short-term stability, without being affected by air fluctuations, and also position information of the movable body in a Z-axis direction orthogonal to the XY plane is measured with high accuracy by a surface position measuring system, without being affected by air fluctuations. In this case, since both of the encoder system and the surface position measuring system directly measure the upper surface of the movable body, simple and direct position control of the movable body can be performed.
US09103696B2 Extended range position sensor system
An extended range position sensor system includes a first set of spaced-apart magnets, a first sensor, a second set of spaced-apart magnets, a second sensor, and a processor. The first sensor is associated with and is movable relative to the first set of magnets, and is configured to generate a first sensor output signal in response to relative movement between the first sensor and the first set of magnets. The second sensor is associated with and is movable relative to the second set of magnets, and is configured to generate a second sensor output signal in response to relative movement between the second sensor and the second set of magnets. The processor is coupled to receive the first and second sensor output signals and is configured, in response thereto, to generate a position signal.
US09103693B2 Map display device
A map display device 11 according to the present invention includes: a display monitor 16 at which a display screen displaying a map is divided into a plurality of split areas and a set of weather information is displayed over each of the split areas; a satellite radio reception unit 111 that individually receives sets of weather information for a plurality of regions; and a control circuit 11 unit that extracts sets of weather information for regions containing an area of map displayed at the display monitor among the sets of the received weather information and allocates each of the sets of the extracted weather information for the regions to each of the split areas on the display screen, and that displays the map at the display monitor and also displays the sets of the extracted weather information for the regions by allocating each of the sets of the extracted weather information for the regions to each of the split areas on the display screen.
US09103690B2 Automatic travel time and routing determinations in a wireless network
Aspects relate to automatically providing updated route and predicted travel time to allow a user to travel a shortest route between a first point and a second point. A route can be planned based on a multitude of route segments, wherein historical data related to speed is known for each of the route segments. Further, the historical data is categorized based on temporal aspects, such as time of day, day of week, as well as other aspects, such as known events that can have an influence on the speed at which each route segment can be traveled. As the user moves along the route, the planned route, as well as an anticipated travel time, are almost continually updated to provide the most up-to-date and accurate data.
US09103688B2 Adapting vehicle personality using analyzed driver performance metrics
A vehicle's driving personality is adapted to a driver by determining a driver's ability to operate the vehicle by monitoring the driver's operation. The driver's operation, such as vehicle speed, lane usage, and braking, is compared to known characteristics of the road segment on which the vehicle is being driven. The driver's competency is evaluated by comparing how the driver operates a vehicle on a segment of roadway to how the vehicle could be operated and stay within limits imposed by law. A driver's ability to operate the vehicle can also be obtained from sensors that monitor a driver's heart rate, respiration rate, eye movement, and other health-indicating autonomic responses. After the driver's capabilities are determined, navigation instructions provided to the driver thereafter are modified to route the driver over roads that are either preferred or appropriate for the driver's physical abilities.
US09103683B2 Azimuth update controller for inertial systems
In one embodiment, a system includes a motion detector to determine a motion event or a no motion event for an inertial system. The determination of the events is based upon comparing at least one motion parameter in the inertial system to at least one predetermined threshold. An azimuth update controller (AUC) periodically requests motion detection events from the motion detector and corrects heading information to a previous positional state in the inertial system in response to receipt of the no motion event.
US09103678B2 Attachment device and total station
An attachment device 46 is for attaching and removing a distance measuring instrument 3 to and from an angle measuring instrument, and the attachment device comprises a base unit 61 where the distance measuring instrument is fixed, a fixing unit 55 for fixing the base unit on the angle measuring instrument, and an optical member 52 for deflecting a distance measuring light from the distance measuring instrument so as to concur with a sighting optical axis of the angle measuring instrument.
US09103676B2 Interferometer employing a multi-waveguide optical loop path and fiber optic rotation rate sensor employing same
An interferometer employed, in part, as a Sagnac interferometer or fiber optic gyro (FOG) includes a light source that provides a source light wave that is split into first and second light waves that are directed to traverse a defined optical loop path in opposite directions. The defined optical loop path in accordance with the present invention is provided by multiple waveguides wound into a coil such that the opposite traveling first and second light waves serially travel through all of the waveguides in opposite directions around the optical loop path.
US09103674B2 Sensor element, method for manufacturing sensor element, sensor device, and electronic apparatus
A sensor element includes a base part 21, drive vibration arms 221 and 222, adjustment vibration arms 241-244 that vibrate in response to drive vibration of the drive vibration arms 221 and 222, detection electrodes that output a charge according to a physical quantity applied to the drive vibration arms 221 and 222, first adjustment electrodes provided on the adjustment vibration arms 241 and 242 and electrically connected to the detection electrodes for outputting a charge in response to vibration of the adjustment vibration arms 241 and 242, and second adjustment electrodes provided on the adjustment vibration arms 243 and 244 and electrically connected to the detection electrodes for outputting a charge in a reverse polarity with respect to the first adjustment electrodes in response to vibration of the adjustment vibration arms 243 and 244.
US09103669B2 Distance measuring device
An optoelectronic distance measuring device is disclosed. The device has a transmitting unit with a driver stage for emitting optical pulses, a receiving unit for receiving a portion of the optical pulses, said portion being reflected from a target object, and converting it into an electrical reception signal, via a photosensitive electrical component. It also has an analog-digital converter for digitizing the reception signal, and an electronic evaluation unit to ascertain a distance from the target object on the basis of a signal propagation time using the digitized reception signal. The driver stage can be designed so that at least two pulse durations of different length for the optical pulses can be set.
US09103667B2 Alignment method for optical axes of composite waveplate
An alignment method for optical axes of a composite waveplate includes rotating a rotatable waveplate, which rotates about a central axis with respect to a fixed waveplate, and adjusting the rotation angle thereof until the differences between the spectral parameters of the composite waveplate and ideal spectral parameters are smaller than preset values.
US09103665B2 Apparatus and method for three dimensional inspection of wafer saw marks
An apparatus (1) and a method for the three dimensional inspection of saw marks (2) on at least one surface (3) of a wafer (4) are disclosed. At least one camera (6) is required to capture an image of the entire surface (3) of the wafer (4). At least one line projector (8) provides a light bundle (5), centered about a central beam axis (9). The line projector (8) is arranged such that the central beam axis (9) is at an acute angle (α) with regard to the plane (P) of the wafer (4). A line shifter (12) is positioned in the light bundle (5) between each line projector (8) and the surface (3) of the wafer (4). A frame grabber (14) and an image processor (16) are used to synchronize and coordinate the image capture and the position of the pattern (20) of lines (22) on the front side (3F) and/or the back side (3B) of the wafer (4).
US09103664B2 Automated process control using an adjusted metrology output signal
Provided is a method for controlling a fabrication cluster using an optical metrology system that includes an optical metrology tool, an optical metrology model, and a profile extraction algorithm. The method comprises: selecting a number of rays for the illumination beam, selecting beam propagation parameters, using a processor, determining beam propagation parameters from the light source of the to the sample structure, determining the beam propagation parameters from the sample structure to the detector, calculating intensity and polarization of each ray on the detector, generating a total intensity and polarization of the diffraction beam, calculating a metrology output signal from the total intensity and polarization, extracting the one or more profile parameters using the metrology output signal, transmitting at least one profile parameter to a fabrication cluster, and adjusting at least one process parameter or equipment setting of the fabrication cluster.
US09103653B2 Non-contact sheet conductivity measurements implementing a rotating magnetic braking system
A method for calculating sheet conductivity with an absolute working distance measurement includes selecting a motor frequency fM for a motor having a first magnet disposed on a shaft, tuning a motor voltage VM for the motor, measuring a no-load power of the motor, inserting a material adjacent the first magnet, tuning the motor frequency to fM, measuring the on-load power of the motor, measuring the absolute working distance and calculating the sheet conductivity of the material.
US09103648B2 Profile measuring method and profile measuring instrument
A controller of a profile measuring instrument includes: an information acquirer that acquires profile information on a profile of a workpiece and a probe command unit that calculates a probe command value for moving the probe by a movement mechanism based on the profile information acquired by the information acquirer. The probe command value is a value for causing a movement of the stylus tip along a lateral face of an imaginary cone that is imaginarily defined in accordance with the profile of the workpiece based on the profile information, the movement of the stylus tip being performed while a distance between a center of the stylus tip and a reference axis passing through a center of a bottom face of the imaginary cone and parallel to the lateral face of the imaginary cone is kept constant.
US09103646B2 Active fuel management systems and methods for vehicles with a manual transmission
A system for a vehicle includes an active fuel management (AFM) module, an expected engine speed determination module, and a disabling module. The AFM module selectively cuts off fuel to at least one cylinder of an engine and maintains valves of the at least one cylinder in closed positions. The expected engine speed determination module determines an expected engine speed based on a position of a shift lever of a manual transmission measured using a position sensor module. The disabling module selectively disables the AFM module based on the expected engine speed.
US09103645B2 Measuring instrument
To provide a measuring instrument having improved usability and viewability. A measuring instrument includes a touch panel display unit that receives an external input performed by physical contact and has a display function. In the touch panel display unit, a plurality of operation icons that are used to perform a complicated input operation as well as a measurement result are displayed. It is possible to provide a measuring instrument that is superior in terms of the usability and viewability. For example, a measurement mode can be selected by selecting and touching one of the plurality of operation icons displayed in the touch panel display unit.
US09103641B2 Reactive material enhanced projectiles and related methods
A munition, such as a projectile formed of at least one reactive material. In one embodiment, the projectile includes a body portion formed of at least one reactive material composition wherein the at least one reactive material composition defines at least a portion of an exterior surface of the projectile. In other words, a portion of the reactive material may be left “unbuffered” or exposed to the barrel of a gun or weapon from which it is launched and similarly exposed to a target with which the projectile subsequently impacts. In one embodiment, the projectile may be formed with a jacket surrounding a portion of the reactive material to provide additional structural integrity. The projectile may be formed by casting or pressing the reactive material into a desired shape, or the reactive material may be extruded into a near-net shape and then machined into the desired shape.
US09103639B2 Impact marking device for practice round and round equipped with such a device
According to the invention, the marking device has a shape of revolution and comprises a casing (1) with a conical bottom (8) closed off by an obturator (2), fixed in a sealed manner to said casing (1). Inside said marking device there is a block (15) of compacted marking product.
US09103638B2 Diversionary device
A diversionary device has a housing containing a pyrotechnic cartridge (24) with an ignitable fuse (52). A firing arrangement includes an ignition cap (60) containing a primer charge (54). Passageways (74, 82) in the housing and ignition cap define a first flow path from the primer charge to a region of the housing in which the fuse (52) is located through which flash from the primer charge can flow to ignite the fuse (52). A further flow path connects said region of the housing with the exterior of the housing to supply the fuse with oxygen for reliable burning. The device may be a multi-burst device containing a plurality of cartridges (24) and the first flow path may include a flash divider (86) for directing a proportion of the flash from a primer charge on to the fuse (52) of each cartridge. The housing may be separable to allow replacement of the cartridges (24).
US09103637B1 Covert taggant dispersing grenade
A covert taggant dispersing grenade includes: a shell, the covert taggant disposed in the shell; a dispersal apparatus operably associated with the covert taggant to disperse the covert taggant; and a propulsion section operably associated with the shell for propelling the shell through an atmosphere. A method for dispersing a taggant includes: launching a grenade containing a taggant over a target, the taggant being invisible in the spectrum of the human eye; and covertly dispensing the taggant over the target.
US09103636B1 Penetrating warhead and method
An explosive device includes a housing and an explosive charge within the housing. The explosive charge includes a primary explosive charge and a shaped charge placed against an inside surface of the housing. The explosive device may further include a buffering material that separates the shaped charge and the primary explosive charge. The shaped charge provides a means for opening the housing before detonating the primary explosive charge, thereby enhancing the blast effect from detonating the primary explosive charge.
US09103635B1 Piezoelectric pebble explosive
An explosive device includes a hollow container having an inner volume holding an explosive. A piezoelectric ceramic connected to the container also has an electrical connection to the explosive. A deformation of the container applies mechanical stress to the piezoelectric ceramic which produces a potential difference or an electric current discharged using the electrical connection. The discharge detonates the explosive. The piezoelectric ceramic may be inside the container or on an outer surface and may be later inserted into the container to arm the explosive device. The container may have an outer surface that is an electrical insulator to prevent accidental electrostatic detonation. The explosive is optionally a plastic explosive. The electrical connection to the explosive optionally includes electrical conductors spaced apart to form a gap that is dimensioned to enable a spark to cross the gap when the piezoelectric ceramic deforms a pre-designated amount.
US09103632B1 Archery sight
An archery sight with a plurality of sight pins and a perimeter guard essentially surrounding the pins. The sight can be structured such that a first sight pin is disposed at a fixed position, relative to the guard, at a plurality of sight-in distance configurations for the first sight pin. In that case, the position of at least a second sight pin is changed, relative to the guard, as a sight-in distance configuration is changed for the first sight pin. Sights may provide visual cant and/or yaw feedback for an archer. Some guards may be partially or virtually enclosed to resist damage to sight pins or other internal mechanisms, and may provide visual magnification.
US09103629B2 Weapon firing and target simulator and methods thereof
The present invention describes a weapon firing simulator comprising a laser transmitter arranged to emit a light beam triggered by a simulated firing, wherein the laser transmitter has sweeping means arranged for sweeping the emitted light beam typically around the simulated projectile or missile, the laser transmitter has modifying means arranged for modifying the emitted light beam to contain information, for transmission of a simulated engagement coordinate.
US09103628B1 System, method, and computer program product for hostile fire strike indication
Systems, methods, and computer program products for optically identifying hostile fire strikes to a vehicle. The identification can be that the hostile fire will hit the vehicle, will likely hit the vehicle, hit the vehicle, or likely hit the vehicle. In the case of predictive hits, a warning may be output and the vehicle can take evasive and/or countermeasure actions. In the case of actual or likely strikes to the vehicle, the optical identification can map a travel path of a detected projectile to positions on the vehicle, thus identifying a likely position or area of projectile impact. Such data can be used for inspection and maintenance purposes.
US09103623B2 Cartridge gas energized gun for arrows, darts and the like
A cartridge gas energized arrow gun has upper and lower receivers, with a cartridge receiving member having a cartridge chamber and a bolt locking receptacle secured to the upper receiver. An arrow supporting barrel is secured to the upper receiver and defines a chamber within which an arrow is located. Cartridge gas from a blank ammunition cartridge within the cartridge chamber is employed to propel the arrow from the barrel. A manually operated bolt and bolt carrier assembly is moveable within the upper receiver for blank cartridge handling during loading, firing, extraction and ejection of blank cartridges.
US09103618B2 Suppressor assembly for a firearm
A suppressor assembly for a firearm is disclosed herein. The firearm may include a barrel, a bore, and a muzzle end. The suppressor assembly may include a gas block mount positioned about the barrel. The suppressor assembly also may include an outer tube comprising a first end and a second end. The first end of the outer tube may be configured to be attached to the gas block mount, and the second end of the outer tube may be configured to extend beyond the muzzle end of the firearm. Moreover, the suppressor assembly may include a baffle comprising a first end and a second end. The second end of the baffle may be configured to be attached to and positioned within the second end of the outer tube.
US09103605B2 Heat exchange device
A heat exchange device for an automotive vehicle. In one embodiment, the heat exchange device has at least one metal foam and a thermal member, in direct contact with the metal foam, enabling heat exchange between the thermal member and the metal foam. The at least one metal foam is assembled together with the thermal member mechanically which causes a local deformation at a joint where the thermal member engages the at least one metal foam.
US09103604B2 Heat exchange unit and corresponding heat exchanger, method of manufacturing a heat exchange unit
The invention relates to a heat exchange unit between a first and a second fluid with the heat exchange unit comprising: at least one interior duct (17) having a plurality of first longitudinal internal channels (21) for the circulation of the first fluid, a hollow exterior envelope (19) wherein is housed the interior duct (17), and at least two ribbed walls (19a) arranged on either side of the interior duct (17), in contact with the interior duct (17) and as well with the exterior envelope (19), in such a way as to delimit a plurality of second longitudinal channels (29) for the circulation of the second fluid, the second channels (29) extending substantially in parallel to the first channels (21). The invention also relates to a heat exchanger incorporating a heat exchange unit as well as a method of manufacturing such a unit.
US09103601B2 Heat dissipation device assembly structure
A heat dissipation device assembly structure includes a heat dissipation unit and at least one fastening member. The heat dissipation unit has a bottom face and a locating section. The locating section is formed with at least one channel in communication with the bottom face. The fastening member is assembled on the bottom face. The fastening member has at least one latch section correspondingly inserted in the locating section. The fastening member further has at least one locking section on one side of the fastening member, which side is distal from the bottom face. The fastening member can be quickly assembled with the heat dissipation unit by means of inserting the latch section into the locating section of the heat dissipation unit. The heat dissipation device assembly structure has higher heat dissipation efficiency and is free from welding process so that the welding cost is saved.
US09103594B2 Carrier positioning method and carrier transport system
A carrier transport system transports a plurality of carriers by a transport conveyor into a heating furnace, advances a comb-shaped carrier stopper having a plurality of protrusions toward the carriers, moves the carriers by the transport conveyor in a transport direction to engage cutout grooves, provided respectively for the carriers, with the protrusions of the carrier stopper to thereby position the carriers at a time. The carrier transport system advances the carrier stopper toward the carriers to insert distal ends of the protrusions of the carrier stopper into insertion holes, and then determines, on the basis of a moved distance X of the carrier stopper, whether the carriers are properly positioned.
US09103590B2 Drying tray and method of use
A tray, for example, a drying tray, a method for drying, and a structural member engagement system are provided. The drying tray includes at least one perforated panel; and a frame adapted to support the perforated panel. The frame may include a plurality of interconnecting plastic support members adapted to receive the perforated panel. The tray may be used to dry fruits, vegetables, fish, and meat. A method of using the tray and a structural member engagement system are also disclosed The member engagement system includes a first elongated member, a second elongated member, and a plug and pin adapted to engage the first member with the second member.
US09103587B2 Process and apparatus for the separation of air by cryogenic distillation
A process for the cryogenic separation of air using a multiple column distillation system comprising at least a higher pressure column (“HP column”) and a lower pressure column (“LP column”), comprising: feeding cooled feed air to the high pressure column for separation into high pressure nitrogen-enriched overhead vapor and crude liquid oxygen; feeding at least one low pressure column feed stream comprising nitrogen and oxygen to the low pressure column for separation into nitrogen-rich overhead vapor and liquid oxygen; refluxing the low pressure column with a liquid stream from or derived from the high pressure column; feeding expanded air to an auxiliary separation column for separation into auxiliary column nitrogen-rich overhead vapor and oxygen-rich liquid and removing the nitrogen rich overhead vapor as a product stream; feeding bottom liquid from the auxiliary column to an intermediate location of the low pressure column; and refluxing the auxiliary column with a nitrogen rich liquid stream from or derived from the HP column.
US09103585B2 Configurations and methods for improved natural gas liquids recovery
Contemplated plants for recovery of NGL from natural gas employ alternate reflux streams in a first column and a residue gas bypass stream, wherein expansion of various process streams provides substantially all of the refrigeration duty in the plant. Contemplated plants not only have flexible recovery of ethane between 2% and 90% while recovering at least 99% of propane, but also reduce and more typically eliminate the need for external refrigeration.
US09103580B2 Display tray system
A display tray system includes a union tray section having a center wall and first and second trays extending away from the center wall. A first center tray assembly includes a first center tray section secured to a first base and defining a first gap therebetween. The first tray is movably secured within the first gap. A second center tray assembly includes a second center tray section secured to a second base and defines a second gap therebetween. The second tray is movably secured within the second gap.
US09103578B2 Substance communicating device for coupling to a host
A substance communicating device for coupling to a host in at least two distinct orientations, as well as a modular system comprising a host, and a functional device in addition to the substance communicating device. The substance communicating device provides a substance from the host to the functional device. The substance communicating device may be an adapter for coupling the functional device to the host, or a functional unit of an adapter and a functional device. The substance communicating device may include a first member having a first interface connectable to the host, and a second member pivotally connected to the first member and having a second interface connectable to the functional device. The modular system may include a plurality of hosts having differently-oriented substance communication service interfaces and the substance communicating device.
US09103575B2 Operation and control of tandem compressors and reheat function
A refrigerant system control operates tandem compressors. If one of the monitored system conditions does not change as each of the tandem compressors or associated components is brought on line, then a determination is made that the respective component is malfunctioning. A refrigerant system can also be additionally equipped with other functions and components, such as variable speed drive, economizer circuit, unloader bypass, and reheat circuit. In case of a reheat circuit, the system can have single or multiple compressors. The control algorithm can also be updated such that that particular malfunctioning component is eliminated from the operational sequence.
US09103567B2 Photovoltaic array utilizing phyllotaxic architecture
An array of photovoltaic panels comprising a plurality of primary branches extending radially outwardly from a central trunk, and a plurality of photovoltaic panels joined to the primary branches, wherein the primary branches extend outwardly from the trunk in a spiral arrangement having a ratio of x turns around the trunk for every y primary branches. The ratio of x:y may be derived from a phyllotaxic arrangement of branches and leaves on a plant. X may be a Fibonacci number, with y being its Fibonacci second successor. The ratio of x/y may be selected from certain Fibonacci ratios, including 1/3, 2/5, 3/8, and 5/13. A method of converting electromagnetic radiation to electrical energy, and a method of making a device for converting electromagnetic radiation to electrical energy in accordance with the invention are also disclosed.
US09103559B2 Indoor unit of air conditioner
An objective of the invention is to obtain a structure which allows a cleaning mechanism, such as dust removal means, for an air filter to be easily mounted in an indoor unit of an air conditioner that has an air filter on the intake side of an indoor fan. The indoor unit is constituted by a main unit (10) including an indoor heat exchanger (22) and an indoor fan (21) for blowing air taken from a room to the indoor heat exchanger (22), a cleaning unit (100) located on the room side of the main unit (10) and including an air filter (30) and dust removal means (50) for removing dust captured by the air filter (30), and an indoor panel (11) for covering the room side of the cleaning unit (100).
US09103557B2 Air conditioner and method for controlling the same based on a calculated value of a malfunctioning sensor
Air conditioner and a method for controlling the air conditioner based on a calculated value of a malfunctioning sensor are provided. The method for controlling the air conditioner having a plurality of indoor devices includes detecting a malfunctioning sensor of any one of the plurality of indoor devices, calculating a value of the malfunctioning sensor based on a value of a normal functioning sensor of another indoor device of the plurality of indoor devices, and controlling the indoor device based on the calculated value of the non-functioning sensor.
US09103555B2 Multiple zone climate control system
A multiple zone climate control system includes a HVAC unit, a digital wireless network, powered wireless adjustable registers controlled by their respective zone controllers, and a central controller that controls the HVAC unit and coordinates the zone controllers for concerted action.
US09103552B2 Burner assembly including a fuel distribution ring with a slot and recess
A burner assembly having a fuel distribution ring, number of fuel nozzles which are mounted on the fuel distribution ring in the direction of low is provided. The fuel distribution ring has a ring-shaped surface in the direction of flow and wherein the fuel distribution ring center and an opposite outer outer side and wherein there is at least one slot on the surface between the fuel nozzles and the at least one slot extends on the surface from the outside to the inside. There is at least one recess arranged on the surface and the at least one recess also partially includes the outside of the fuel distributor.
US09103551B2 Combustor leaf seal arrangement
A substantially wedge-shaped sector nozzle includes a nozzle body having inner and outer arcuate segments connected by diverging radial side plates and a nozzle plate at an aft end of the nozzle body formed with an array of fuel orifices. One of the diverging radial side plates supports a radially-oriented leaf seal assembly adapted to seal against a flat plate of an adjacent similarly-shaped sector nozzle.
US09103534B2 Scattered-photon extraction-based light fixtures
A scattered photon extraction light fixture includes an optic element having a first surface; a light source for emitting short wavelength radiation, the light source disposed opposite, perpendicular, or tangential to the first surface of the optic element; a wavelength-conversion material, disposed on the first surface of the optic element, for receiving and down converting at least some of the short wavelength radiation emitted by the light source and transferring a portion of the received and down converted radiation; and one or more reflectors positioned opposite the wavelength-conversion material. A scattered photon extraction light system includes a plurality of light emitting fixtures. One or more wavelength-conversion materials, in the embodiments of the present invention, are disposed remotely from the light source(s), and used to absorb radiation in one spectral region and emit radiation in another spectral region. Lighting efficiency is improved by capturing the short wavelength and down-converted radiation.
US09103532B2 LED-based modular assembly
The invention refers to a Lighting system comprising: a LED board bearing LEDs; and an optical board on the LED board; wherein the optical board is made of optical modules positioned side-by-side according to predetermined orientations one to the other, each optical module comprising at least one optical element adapted to face at least one of said LEDs and modify feature of the light emitted by this at least one LED, wherein the lighting system is provided with mechanical fool proofing elements adapted to prevent a positioning of the optical modules according to orientations one to the other different from said predetermined orientations.
US09103531B2 Lighting device with bowl-like casing
A lighting assembly (10) comprising: a casing (24) having a bowl-like structure with a bottom wall (24a) defining a window opening (26), and joined to said casing (24), a stack of elements comprising: a light radiation source (12, 14) situated opposite said opening (26) so as to direct said light radiation towards the outside of the casing (24); and a driving circuit board (16) for said radiation source (12, 14).
US09103527B2 Light source unit and projection display device with the same
A light source unit includes LED 1 with an emission surface and polarizer 2 that is positioned opposite the emission surface of LED 1 and in which the direction of a transmission axis varies depending on a position in the plane of polarizer 2. Polarizer 2 includes a recessed and protruding structure which transmits, from among light that travels from LED 1 side into polarizer 2, a portion of the light whose polarization direction is parallel to the transmission axis, while reflecting and diffracting a portion of the light whose polarization direction is orthogonal to the transmission axis. The recessed and protruding structure includes diffraction grating 3.
US09103526B2 Phosphor assembly with phosphor element and optical system
This invention relates to a phosphor assembly with a phosphor element for converting pump light into converted light, and an optical system for transmitting converted light and/or pump light. Therein, a liquid immersion material is provided in a gap between the phosphor element and the optical system, wherein an excess of immersion material enables a continuous exchange of the material in the gap and thus provides a cooling.
US09103525B2 LED module and method for manufacturing the same
An LED module includes an LED unit having an LED chip, a lens covering the LED chip, and a diffusing film. The lens includes a light-incident face facing the LED chip, a light-emitting face opposite to the light-incident face, and a connecting face connecting the light-incident face to the light-emitting face. The diffusing film has a plurality of macromolecule diffusing particles mixed therein, and is coated on the light-emitting face of the lens.
US09103519B2 Vehicle lighting unit
A vehicle lighting unit is capable of enhancing the light utilization efficiency by effectively utilizing the part of light emitted from the semiconductor light emitting element that typically does not enter the light guide lens while being reflected by the light incident surface of the lens. The vehicle lighting unit can include a light guide lens a first surface configured to be disposed on a front side of a vehicle body, a second surface configured to be disposed on a rear side thereof and a recessed portion including a third surface; and a light emitting element disposed substantially at a reference point of the light guide lens. The second surface can include a reflection area extending from the recessed portion. The third surface can surround the semiconductor light emitting element, so that the light emitted from the semiconductor light emitting element can be incident on the third surface.
US09103518B2 Vehicle headlight
A vehicle headlight of a small projector type can provide a favorable light distribution for an overhead sign area along with a light distribution used as a low beam. The headlight can include a semiconductor light source and a projector lens including first, second and third light-emitting surfaces. The headlight can project light having high brightness underneath a horizontal cut-off line while projecting other light in the downward direction using the first and third light-emitting surfaces. Additionally, the headlight can be configured to illuminate light having small chromatic aberration toward the overhead sign area using the second light-emitting surface located between the first and third light-emitting surfaces. Thus, the headlight can provide a favorable light distribution pattern used as a low beam and a favorable light distribution pattern for the overhead sign area using the light that color separation is inhibited so as to conform to a vehicular standard.
US09103517B2 Vehicle light
A vehicle light can prevent color variations of the projected image. The vehicle light can include a laser diode, a wavelength conversion member including a phosphor configured to receive blue light emitted from the laser diode and then emitting white light, a projection lens configured to project the white light emitted from the wavelength conversion member to provide forward illumination for a vehicle, and a diffusing portion provided to the projection lens, configured to diffuse the excitation light which is incident on the projection lens from the wavelength conversion member.
US09103513B2 Flexible circuit board and method for manufacturing the same, and LED flexible strip light
A flexible circuit board is disclosed, including a first insulation layer, a second insulation layer and a circuit layer, wherein the first insulation layer is attached to one side of the circuit layer and the second insulation layer is attached to the other side of the circuit layer, each of the first insulation layer and the second insulation layer is provided with a foldable portion along their length, the foldable portion of the first insulation layer is corresponding in position with the foldable portion of the second insulation layer, and the circuit layer includes a set of power wires and at least one lighting wire. And a method for manufacturing the flexible circuit board, and a LED flexible strip light are also disclosed.
US09103507B2 LED lamp with uniform omnidirectional light intensity output
A light emitting apparatus comprises: an LED-based light source; a spherical, spheroidal, or toroidal diffuser generating a Lambertian light intensity distribution output at any point on the diffuser surface responsive to illumination inside the diffuser; and a base including a base connector. The LED based light source, the diffuser, and the base are secured together as a unitary LED lamp installable in a lighting socket by connecting the base connector with the lighting socket. The diffuser is shaped and arranged respective to the LED based light source in the unitary LED lamp to conform with an isolux surface of the LED based light source. The base is operatively connected with the LED based light source in the unitary LED lamp to electrically power the LED based light source using electrical power received at the base connector.
US09103505B2 Heat dissipation structure for LED lighting
A heat dissipation structure for LED lighting includes a light shade, at least one LED module, a wind guide member and a light seat. The light shade has a first opening and a second opening. The light shade further has at least one first extension section between the first and second openings. The LED module is inlaid in the first extension section. The light seat is connected with the light shade to form at least one perforation therebetween. The wind guide member serves to directly suck in airflow through the perforation to dissipate the heat generated by the LED module. The heat of the LED module is carried out of the first opening so as to lower the temperature of the LED module. Accordingly, the heat dissipation structure is free from any radiating fin assembly so that the total weight is reduced and the heat dissipation efficiency is enhanced.
US09103499B2 Gas storage tank comprising a liquid sealant
One exemplary embodiment includes a gas storage tank comprising a structural outer layer, an internal liner layer, an annular boss, and a liquid sealant disposed between the overlapped section of the liner layer and the boss to provide a gas-tight seal.
US09103498B2 Method and apparatus for vaporizing a liquid stream
A method for vaporizing a liquid stream includes cycling a heat transfer fluid in a closed circuit; feeding the heat transfer fluid to a first heat transfer zone; feeding a liquid stream to be vaporized to the first heat transfer zone; providing heat from the heat transfer fluid to the liquid stream in the first heat transfer zone thereby vaporizing the liquid stream and at least partially condensing the heat transfer fluid; removing the vaporized liquid stream and the at least partially condensed heat transfer fluid and passing the latter to a second heat transfer zone; providing heat from ambient air to the at least partially condensed heat transfer fluid thereby vaporizing the heat transfer fluid; recycling the vaporized heat transfer fluid to the first heat transfer zone using gravitational force exerted on the heat transfer fluid being cycled in the closed circuit.
US09103495B2 Integrated portable stand, power supply, and control panel
A portable stand with an integral power supply and controller, a mast for supporting a functional device and a stabilizing leg assembly comprises a main housing for a power supply, and connected to the main housing are retractable and extendable support legs and an extendable and retractable mast. The mast includes a mount for holding at least one functional device to form a single, integral unit that provides for storage, stable support and power for a functional device that is mounted onto the mast, and portability.
US09103494B2 Assembly apparatus
An assembly apparatus is provided. The assembly apparatus includes a fixed apparatus that includes a body element, a first fixed element protruding from an outer curved surface of the body element in a radial direction of the body element, and a second fixed element extending in a first direction that is vertical to the radial direction of the body element, and a support apparatus that includes a first receiving element in which the first fixed element is inserted, rotated, and fixed, and a second receiving element in which the second fixed element is inserted, rotated, and fixed. An end of the second fixed element is connected to the body element. Another end of the second fixed element protrudes from a lower surface of the body element.
US09103492B2 Adjustable holder for devices
Disclosed is an adjustable holder for devices with a simplified design for accommodating devices of various form factors and shapes. The adjustable holder comprises at least a pair of offset, generally parallel arms that are slidable within corresponding openings of a support in order to adjust the arms and fixedly position the arms at varying distances relative to the support. The adjustable holder further comprises a gripping member coupled to a distal end of each of the arms to grip a device at opposing sides of the device. In some embodiments, the arms are adjustable via a two-part ratcheting mechanism. In yet other embodiments, the gripping members are rotatable to accommodate devices of various geometries. The holder can fit onto a stand or structure to hold a device in a fixed position.
US09103491B2 Electronic product carrier adapted to be hung on a neck
An electronic product carrier adapted to be hung on a neck including a base, a bar having a distal bar section and a proximal bar section connected to the base by a connecting band, a plate assembly connected to the distal bar section and having a rotatable plate for mounting thereon an electronic product, and a neck cord adapted to be connected to the base, the bar or the connecting band. The bar further includes additional bar sections. The plate assembly includes a hinge hingedly connected to and frictionally engaged with the distal bar section, and a plate support connected to the hinge. The rotatable plate is rotatably mounted on and frictionally engaged with the plate support.
US09103489B2 Terminal stand
The present invention relates to a terminal stand, and includes a stand attaching part; a terminal standing part; a plurality of arms connected between the stand attaching part and the terminal standing part, and configured to move to a different direction mutually; and an arm connecting part coupled to a first arm and a second arm adjacent to each other among the plurality of arms, and configured to allow the first arm and the second arm to be arranged in an overlapping manner along a lengthwise direction of the first arm and the second arm or to allow the first arm and the second arm to be swiveled.
US09103481B2 Heatable medium pipe and method for producing same
A heatable medium pipe having at least one pipe connector and heating element, wherein the heating element has a few wires, in particular two wires, and said wires extend continuously along the medium pipe and along the at least one pipe connector. In a method for producing such a heatable medium pipe, the heating element is continuously wound around a tubular medium pipe and the heating element is pre-assembled on the medium pipe in that the heating element is fastened or fixed by at least one fastening element, the medium pipe is cut to a first length for the particular application, the length corresponding to the desired medium pipe length (lR) plus the heating element length (lH) required for wrapping around the at least one pipe connector and the transition area the fastening element is removed in the region outside the desired medium pipe length (lR), the heating element is unwrapped from the medium pipe section cut from the first length, the medium pipe is cut to the desired medium pipe length (lR) to form a second medium pipe section, the medium pipe section is connected to the at least one pipe connector as the medium pipe, and the heating element is at least wrapped around the at least one pipe connector.
US09103480B2 Quick connector and temperature control system incorporating such a connector
A quick connector having a first element including a piston with a valve for closing an inner duct of the first element and which piston is movable between a first position within a body of the first element and a second position forward of the body and wherein the valve is movable relative to the piston in a direction parallel to an axis of the first element. The connector includes a seal between the piston and the body of the first element and at least one movable member for locking the piston in the first position and a ring for maintaining the movable member in the first position when the first element is coupled to, and during separation of, a second element of the connector and as long as the valve is not closing the inner duct of the first element.
US09103478B2 Quick-connect tube coupling
A quick-connect fitting includes a polymeric first connector in fluid communication with a first component, and a polymeric second connector in fluid communication with a second component. The first connector is either a male fitting or a female fitting, and the other of the male fitting and female fitting is the second connector. The female fitting includes a longitudinal cylindrical cavity having therein a retaining ring retaining an o-ring, and the male fitting includes a cylindrical body and a tubular sealing element extending longitudinally therefrom positionable within the polymeric female fitting and o-ring in sealing engagement. The quick connect fitting includes a clip pivotably connected to the second connector moving between a first position connecting the female fitting to the male fitting when the male fitting is positioned within the female fitting and a second position in which the male fitting is removable from the female fitting.
US09103474B2 Lightweight fire hose coupling with protective shoulder and method of manufacturing the coupling
A fire hose coupling includes a substantially annular body having a first end adapted to connect to a fire hose and a second end having male threads. The annular body has a central bore. The coupling includes circumferentially spaced-apart lugs extending radially outwardly from an outer surface of the first end of the body. The coupling further includes a protective shoulder extending radially outwardly from the body between the male threads and the lugs. The protective shoulder has an outer diameter greater than an outer diameter of the male threads to thereby protect the male threads.
US09103465B2 Dual piston actuator and method of use
A dual piston valve actuator operable to provide an initial thrust force that is greater than a subsequent thrust force for moving a gate valve from a closed position to an open position. The actuator may include a first piston and a second piston movably disposed within a bore of the first piston. The first piston may define a first piston area for proving the initial thrust force, and the second piston may define a second piston area (that is less than the first piston area) for providing the subsequent thrust force. Movement of the first piston is limited relative to the second piston for moving the gate valve using the initial thrust force an initial portion of the valve stroke, while moving the gate valve using the subsequent thrust force the remaining portion of the valve stroke.
US09103461B2 Pneumatic actuator with container installation detection
There is disclosed a mechanism for detecting that a valve coupled to a pressurized container is fully installed into a nose piece of a pneumatic actuator coupled to a fire suppression system.
US09103458B2 Method and device for controlling a valve
A method for controlling a valve including a spring, an actuator having an actuator force opposing the spring, and a pin actuatable by the actuator. To open the valve, in a first operating mode a current having a predefined curve is applied to the actuator, starting from a starting value of the current at which the pin is positioned to allow the valve to close, measured values of the current are determined chronologically sequentially, a reference value of the current takes on the current measured value of the current when the measured current deviates from the applied current by a predefined degree. In a second operating mode, a current having a predefined curve is applied to the actuator, starting with the starting value of the current to a final value of the current at which the pin is in a position that prevents the valve from closing.
US09103456B1 De-jamming device
A de-jamming device has a tubular housing that defines a lumen having a lumen axis, a proximal end, and a distal end. The proximal end has a threaded valve attachment structure for threadedly attaching the de-jamming device to the check valve. A portal extends through the tubular housing in communication with the lumen, and a push rod is positioned through the portal and into the lumen such that the push rod can be pushed into the valve conduit for pushing open the sealing element of the check valve.
US09103452B2 Large-scale hydraulic variable-speed floating box flap valve
A large-scale hydraulic variable-speed floating box flap valve includes a hinge support, a valve seat, an upper valve leaf and a lower valve leaf, the valve seat and the hinge support are both fixed on a pump station base. The upper valve leaf is hinge-connected to the hinge support through a pin shaft, and the lower valve leaf is hinge-connected to the upper valve leaf. The upper valve leaf and the lower valve leaf may contact and match the valve seat in a sealed manner through a sealing structure. The upper valve leaf is connected to the lower valve leaf through at least one hydraulic mechanism. The hydraulic mechanism has one end hinge-connected to the upper valve leaf, and the other end hinge-connected to the lower valve leaf. The impact force between the valve leaves and the valve seat is damped by the hydraulic mechanism.
US09103451B2 Device for stopping flow of fluid
A device for stopping a flow of fluid in a fixed length of tube with an actuator simple in construction is provided. The stopping device is free of direct touch with the fluid inside the tube, expected not to obstruct the flow in the tube as permitted as possible at normal condition, expected to perform both detection and control with a single device, and further invulnerable to kinds of fluids. The device for stopping a flow of fluid includes a tube holder to keep a tube in looped configuration, a movable part pressing the looped configuration of the tube. Pressing of the looped configuration of the tube make a snapped bent to stop the flow of fluid passed through the tube. Putting the movable part back into place results in the tube's returning from the configuration having the bent, allowing the fluid flowing again through the tube.
US09103446B2 Fluid seal assembly
A fluid seal assembly is disposable between an outer surface, i.e. engine block or any other part that requires application of the assembly and a rotatable member, such as, for example a shaft, wherein the assembly circumscribes the shaft and lubricates the shaft and the same rotates around the axis. The assembly includes at least three members: a casing unit, a sealing ring unit, and a liner. The assembly eliminates problems associated with prior art designs such as static leakage of oil, and clogging up the spirals with carbonized oil that negatively impact lifecycle of the fluid seals.
US09103441B2 Piston pin for heat dissipation
A piston assembly including a piston body pivotally connected to a connecting rod by a wrist pin. The wrist pin includes a sealed cavity therein partially filled with a heat transfer medium. The heat transfer medium may be composed of a fusible alloy. The sealed cavity may be comprised of discrete compartments. The wrist pin may be integrated with the connecting rod and share a conjoined sealed cavity therewith so that heat transfer medium can draw heat effectively away from the piston body.
US09103438B2 Method and apparatus for extracting energy from a fluctuating energy flow from a renewable energy source
A hydraulic pump is driven by a rotating shaft, driven in turn by a renewable energy source. A hydraulic motor drives a load and a high pressure manifold communicates between the pump, motor and an elastically deformable fluid retaining body. The pressure in the high pressure manifold is measured and the net rate of displacement of working fluid by the hydraulic pump is selected responsive thereto to regulate the torque applied to the rotating shaft. The net rate of displacement of working fluid by the hydraulic motor is selected to smooth the energy flow to the load. The net rate of displacement of working fluid by the hydraulic motor is selected to regulate the pressure in the high pressure manifold to remain within an acceptable pressure range.
US09103434B2 Fail-to-neutral system and method for a toroidal traction drive automatic transmission
A fail-to-neutral diagnostic technique for a transmission that includes a variator may include monitoring a state of a pressure differential valve fluidly coupled to a high side pressure applied to at least one actuator coupled to at least one corresponding roller of the variator and also fluidly coupled to a low side pressure applied to the at least one actuator, determining from the state of the pressure differential valve a variator torque sign corresponding to whether torque transferred by the at least one roller is positive or negative, determining an expected variator torque sign based on current operating conditions of the transmission, and commanding the transmission to a true neutral condition if the determined variator torque sign is different from the expected variator torque sign.
US09103431B2 Transmission service vent fitting
The present disclosure relates to a vehicle transmission service vent fitting with a hollow shaft insertable in a transmission housing, configured to allow a funnel nozzle to at least partially be inserted therein; and a release aperture formed in the shaft configured to enable exhaust from the transmission housing when the nozzle is at least partially inserted in the shaft and fluid passes through the nozzle.
US09103422B2 Ball screw actuator including a compliant ball screw stop
An actuator includes a ball nut, a ball screw, and a ball screw stop. The ball nut is adapted to receive an input torque and in response rotates and supplies a drive force. The ball screw extends through the ball nut and has a first end and a second end. The ball screw receives the drive force from the ball nut and in response selectively translates between a retract position and a extend position. The ball screw stop is mounted on the ball screw proximate the first end to translate therewith. The ball screw stop engages the ball nut when the ball screw is in the extend position, translates, with compliance, a predetermined distance toward the first end upon engaging the ball nut, and prevents further rotation of the ball screw upon translating the predetermined distance.
US09103420B2 Linear actuator with arm driven mechanism
A linear actuator (1) includes an electrical driving mechanism (10), a lead screw (20), an outer tube (30), a telescopic tube (40) and an arm driven mechanism (50). The arm driven mechanism (50) comprises an arm (51), a driving nut (52), a telescopic sleeve (53), a first washer (54), a nut-tube (55) and a second washer (56). The arm (51) is provided with a handle (511) and a sleeve (512), and the sleeve (512) links with the lead screw (20). An outer peripheral of the telescopic sleeve (53) provided with a plural of screws for screwing with the telescopic tube (40). The nut-tube (55) links with the driving nut (52) for moving together. When the handle (511) rotates, the linear actuator (1) can be operated.
US09103418B2 Machine tool assembly for machining workpieces and actuator component thereof
A machine tool assembly includes a basic body, and a clamp and an actuator component mounted to the basic body. The clamp and actuator components include ramping surfaces for cooperatively biasing the clamp into an engagement position. The actuator component is configured to move along an actuator movement axis and includes an actuator relief surface connected, and extending at a different angle, to the actuator component's ramping surface. The different angle is configured to facilitate disengagement of the actuator component and clamp for a smaller movement of the actuator component along the actuator movement axis than would have been the case in the absence of such configuration, thereby allowing a compact construction of the assembly.
US09103412B2 Endless power transmission belt-type continuously variable transmission
Among V-faces (48) of a pulley (15), a portion (48a) that is radially further inside than a predetermined position P1 is susceptible to slip against a metal belt (19), but making a shape of the generatrix of the portion (48a) on the radially inner side into a straight line enables a large coefficient of friction against the metal belt (19) to be ensured, thereby reliably preventing slip from occurring. Furthermore, by making, among the V-faces (48) of the pulley (15), a shape of the generatrix of a portion (48b) that is radially further outside than the predetermined position P1 into a curved line that curves in a direction that compensates for misalignment (C) of the metal belt (19) ensures that the metal belt (19) smoothly bites into the V-faces (48), thereby enabling the durability of the metal belt (19) or the pulley (15) to be enhanced. When the shape of the generatrix of the V-faces (48) is a curved line, the coefficient of friction against the metal belt (19) decreases, but since the portion (48b) of the V-faces (48) on the radially outer side is a portion that is naturally resistant to the occurrence of slip of the metal belt (19), there is no possibility of slip occurring even if the coefficient of friction decreases.
US09103405B2 Tensioning device for chains
The invention relates to a tensioning device (1) for chains, having a spindle body (2) which is provided with at least one spindle thread (11), and with at least two coupling elements (3, 4), wherein at least one coupling element (3, 4) comprises a coupling thread (3b, 4b) screwed to the spindle thread (11), and with a securing element (5) which is embodied to be transferable from a release position, in which the coupling thread (3b, 4b) can be rotated with respect to the spindle thread (11), to a securing position, in which a rotation of the coupling thread (3b, 4b) with respect to the spindle body (2) is blocked in a form-fitting manner. To provide a tensioning device with an easily operatable and secure release protection, the tensioning device (1) comprises at least one securing element (5) which creates a positive rigid body coupling between the at least one coupling element (3, 4) provided with a coupling thread (3b, 4b) and the spindle body (2) in the securing position.
US09103403B2 Three parameter, multi-axis isolators, isolation systems employing the same, and methods for producing the same
Embodiments of a three parameter, multi-axis isolator configured to limit the transmission of vibrations between a mass and a base are provided. In one embodiment, the three parameter, multi-axis isolator includes an isolator housing configured to be mounted to the base, opposing bellows sealingly mounted within the isolator housing, and a damper piston movably suspended within the isolator housing between the opposing bellows. The damper piston is configured to be coupled to the mass. The opposing bellows deflect with movement of the damper piston along multiple axes to limit the transmission of vibrations between the mass and the base.
US09103400B2 Method and apparatus for an adjustable damper
An air bleed system for a suspension fork or shock absorber includes: a fluid passage between an interior of the suspension and an exterior of the suspension; and a manually operable valve having a first position substantially closing the fluid passage and a second position allowing fluid flow between the interior and the exterior.
US09103392B2 Hub with mechanism to permit backwards movement without pedal movement
A control mechanism for decoupling a drive ratchet on a bicycle hub makes it possible to push the bicycle backwards while the foot pedals of the pedal crank drive remain still. These functions can be applied to folding bicycles, in which pedal movements are harmful when in their folded up state. The control mechanism includes a controlling sleeve coupled to the drive ratchet, which is indirectly connected by means of a frictional device to the unmoving hub axle.
US09103390B2 Rotary damper device with one-way clutch
A rotary damper device with a one-way clutch includes a rotary damper having a damper housing having a viscous fluid sealed inside, and a rotor having a rotor blade received rotatably inside the damper housing and a rotor shaft; and the one-way clutch including an inner member having a recessed portion on an outer perimeter portion and coaxially joined to the rotor shaft, an outer member having an inner gear, and a gear housed in the recessed portion to engage with the inner gear. When the outer member rotates in a positive direction, the outer member rotates independently from the inner member. When the outer member rotates in a negative direction, the gear couples and the outer member and the inner member rotate together. The inner member has a portion larger than the rotor shaft. The outer member has a locking portion to be locked on the inner member.
US09103388B2 Method of controlling a double clutch in a vehicle transmission, and clutch control system for controlling a double clutch
The present invention concerns a method of controlling a double clutch transmission (1) comprising two clutches (2a, 2b) one of which that is transmitting torque being the active clutch while the other one constituting the incoming clutch characterized by combining the incoming clutch preparation and the torque handover from the active clutch by over actuating the incoming clutch and shutting off the active clutch in a non proportional way, based on a feedback signal from the incoming clutch.
US09103387B2 Readjustement device for a friction clutch
A readjustment device for travel-controlled wear readjustment for a friction clutch includes a spindle with a spindle nut for rotating a pressure plate relative to a counter plate via a ramp system having a ramp ring for axial displacement of the pressure plate relative to the counter plate as a function of a relative rotation. The ramp ring has a first engagement device that is connected in a positively locking manner to the spindle nut. The first engagement device is designed such that, in an assembled state, the first engagement device is detachably connected to the spindle nut. This allows an inspection of the function of the readjustment device, in particular of the ramp system, in an assembled state of the readjustment device to be performed with little expenditure of time and without the risk of damage to a component, for example to the blocking elements on the pinion.
US09103386B2 Reduced drag clutch plate
A clutch plate includes an annular body and an integral resilient portion connected to the annular body by a first circumferentially extending tab. The annular body has inner and outer diameters and first and second parallel surfaces extending therebetween. The resilient portion has third and fourth parallel surfaces extending at respective acute angles to the first and second parallel surfaces. In some example embodiments, the clutch plate includes a wet friction material affixed to the first and third surfaces. In an example embodiment, the clutch plate has a wet friction material affixed to the second and fourth surfaces. In an example embodiment, the clutch plate has first and second circumferential slots respectively disposed radially inside and outside of the first circumferentially extending tab.
US09103385B2 Wet friction material
To be able to promote discharge of lubricating oil in a disengaged state while maintaining a large lining area to such an extent that it does not affect torque transmission capacity, heat resistance, and peeling resistance thereby to obtain an excellent effect to reduce a drag torque in a wide range of relative rotation speeds.In a segment friction material 1A as a wet friction material, drag torque reducing grooves 5A are provided only on top surfaces of part of segment pieces 3A among thirty pieces of segment pieces 3, 3A. A series of drag torque reducing grooves 5A extend over five segment pieces 3A along a direction almost at right angles to a straight line connecting a center point 5Aa thereof and a center O of a circumference. The series of drag torque reducing grooves 5A are provided at three places on the circumference. Thereby, discharge of ATF is promoted without reducing a lining area and an oil film is formed on the top surface of the segment piece 3A. Thus, a great effect to reduce a drag torque was obtained in a wide range of relative rotation speeds (500 rpm to 5000 rpm).
US09103384B2 Rotation transmission device
A rotation transmission device includes an outer ring having an inner cylindrical surface, and an inner ring having outer cam surfaces. A pair of rollers and an elastic member biasing the rollers away from each other are mounted between the cylindrical surface and each adjacent pair of the cam surfaces. The rollers and the elastic members are retained by a control retainer and a rotary retainer each having a flange and crossbars extending from the flange and circumferentially alternating with the crossbars of the other retainer. The respective opposed pairs of rollers are pushed by the respective crossbars to a disengaged position when the retainers rotate relative to each other. The crossbars of the retainers are disposed between the outer ring and the inner ring and the flanges are provided outside the outer ring to minimize the axial length of the outer ring.
US09103378B2 Bearing, lubricant distribution acquisition device and lubricant distribution acquisition method
A bearing (X) inside which a lubricant is able to be sealed is provided with: a rotary motion body (X2) that moves when a rotation drive force is applied; and a rotation angle indicator (X6) that is provided on the rotary motion body (X2) and that is moved, in conjunction with the movement of the rotary motion body (X2), to a position that corresponds to the rotation angle of the rotary motion body (X2).
US09103372B2 Hub-bearing assembly for rotatably mounting a tilling disc
A hub-bearing assembly is disclosed, wherein the hub-bearing assembly is used for rotatably mounting a tilling disc about an axis of rotation is disclosed. The hub-bearing assembly comprises an annular hub comprising an axially extending tubular portion defining a cylindrical housing and an outer flange for mounting a disc, a bearing unit mounted in the housing, and an elastic damping body arranged in the housing and radially interposed between the hub and an outer ring of the bearing unit.
US09103370B2 Driving device having an actively supported drive shaft
A driving device for an adjusting device of a motor vehicle is provided. The driving device comprises a housing or housing section which at least partially encloses components of the driving device and an electric-motor-driven drive shaft which extends in a longitudinal direction and which is axially supported on the housing or housing section at least via one end. An active bearing element is arranged between the housing or housing section and the drive shaft at at least one end of the drive shaft, said bearing element being suitable for acting on the drive shaft axially in the longitudinal direction during the operation of the driving device.
US09103369B2 Bearing assembly
A bearing assembly includes two tapered roller bearings having inner and outer rings and tapered rollers therebetween. The inner rings are mounted to a first machine part, and the outer rings are mounted on an adapter sleeve on a second machine part. The adapter sleeve has a first end axially fixed relative to the second machine part and a second end axially spaced from an axial stop of the second machine part by an axial gap. At a non-operating temperature, such as 20° C., the gap has a width of about 30 μm to 250 μm, and at an operating temperature of over 50° C. the gap disappears and the second end contacts the axial stop. The width of the gap at the non-operating temperature is selected to produce a predetermined preload on the bearing assembly at the operating temperature.
US09103366B2 Bolt-locking apparatus, mounting method thereof and mounting jig
A bolt-locking apparatus includes a plurality of fitting members 2 and 3 which are relatively non-rotatably fitted to heads of a plurality of bolts 5, and an engaging member 4 fitted to the plurality of fitting members 2 and 3 such that the engaging member 4 straddles the fitting members 2 and 3. Outer peripheral surfaces 2b and 3b of the fitting members 2 and 3 are non-circular in shape. The engaging member 4 includes a plurality of engaging holes (non-circular engaging portions) 8a and 8b which correspond to the non-circular outer peripheral surfaces 2b and 3b of the plurality of fitting members 2 and 3.
US09103363B2 Two-piece clip assembly
An engagement convex portion is formed in a grommet of a two-piece clip, and a head portion-side engagement concave portion is formed in a pin of the two-piece clip. When the pin is pushed into the grommet to a maximum push-in position, an inner end of the engagement convex portion of the grommet abuts against a middle of a tip-side concave portion wall surface of the head portion-side engagement concave portion. Thus, in the maximum push-in position, when a tip portion of the pin is pushed back in an extracting direction, the tip-side concave portion wall surface of the head portion-side engagement concave portion of the pin slides against the inner end of the engagement convex portion of the grommet.
US09103361B2 Clip
A clip includes a clip body, displacement portions, engagement portions and curved protruding portions. The clip body can be accommodated between a first through-hole of a protruding portion of a first object to be fixed and a second object to be fixed. The displacement portions are provided on both end portions of the clip body along a virtual line. The engagement portions are provided at leading end side of the displacement portions so as to engage with the protruding portion when the clip body is pulled out from the first through-hole. The curved protruding portions provided at both end portions of the clip body and each are engaged with a curved corner portion formed in the second object to be fixed when the clip body is pulled out from the first through-hole.
US09103360B2 Microactuator using bubble growth and destruction
Disclosed is a microactuator using growth and destruction of bubbles including a first chamber provided with a heating plate installed at an exterior of a bottom surface of the first chamber to generate heat, and filled with a first liquid working fluid such that bubbles are caused, by heat, to grow at an interface of a cavity on an inner surface of the first chamber to be heated, a second chamber provided with a heating plate installed at an exterior of a bottom surface of the second chamber to generate heat, and filled with a second liquid working fluid such that bubbles are caused, by heat, to grow at an interface of a cavity on an inner surface of the second chamber to be heated, a connection path to connect the first chamber and the second chamber to each other, the connection path being provided therein with a moving member adapted to isolate the first and second chambers from each other and to move when internal pressure changes according to growth and destruction of the bubbles, a first subline to connect the connection path to the second chamber such that the first working fluid moves the moving member to one side and is guided to the second chamber according to increase in the internal pressure by growth of the bubbles in the first chamber, a second subline to connect the connection path to the first chamber such that the second working fluid moves the moving member to the other side and is guided to the first chamber according to increase in internal pressure by growth of the bubbles in the second chamber, and a plurality of cooling means installed on the first subline and the second subline to destroy bubbles produced in the first and second chambers.
US09103357B2 Cylinder
A cylinder comprises a cylinder body, a main cavity body, a piston and a piston rod. Air inlets and air outlets are arranged in each of two opposite ends of the cylinder body. The cylinder is further configured with an anti-collision structure. The anti-collision structure comprises a buffer rod arranged on the piston. The cylinder body defines a receiving hole corresponding to the buffer rod. The receiving hole is configured with a first sealing ring that seals a gap between the buffer rod and the receiving hole. The anti-collision structure has a flexible buffering function and does not generate hard impact. Thus, the cylinder has a low vibration and high stability.
US09103353B2 Radiator module for motor vehicle
In a radiator module for a motor vehicle, a detachable connection is required between a housing of an electric motor and a retaining structure, which connection allows economic and secure assembly and cannot be loosened or detached by alternating reaction forces at the electric motor. To achieve this, an arrangement is proposed of a retaining structure and detachably connected therewith a housing for an electric motor, in which the housing has a number of radiating protruding tabs on the base side which can be inserted by successive tilt and shift movements in corresponding recesses of the retaining structure. Furthermore various methods for assembly are proposed.
US09103347B2 Fan device
A fan device includes an impeller, a motor, a fan frame, a circuit board and a covering member. The motor is used for driving rotation of the impeller. The fan frame includes an axial-flow channel for accommodating the impeller and the motor and includes a receptacle. The receptacle is defined by two airflow inlet/outlet plates, one channel wall and two lateral plates. The circuit board is accommodated within the receptacle. The covering member is used for sheltering the receptacle.
US09103344B2 Submersible pump assembly
An immersion pump assembly includes an electric drive motor and a control device (14) for controlling the drive motor, which are configured for dipping into a liquid (18) to be conveyed. An external display device (26) and/or an external communications device are/is configured for arrangement outside the liquid (18) to be conveyed and are/is connected to the control device (14) for signal transmission.
US09103343B2 High-performance oil pump
A high-performance oil pump for pumping oil in an internal combustion engine that eliminates or greatly reduces cavitation in the oil pump, thereby increasing the efficiency and performance of the oil pump. The present invention provides a housing having an inlet for receiving a supply of oil and an outlet for discharging the oil. At least two gears rotatably and matingly are disposed within the housing for pumping the oil from the inlet to the outlet. A pressure regulation circuit is disposed within the housing for balancing oil flow pressure between the inlet and the outlet by redirecting a portion of the oil from the outlet to the inlet when said oil flow pressure reaches a predetermined level at the outlet in order to reduce or eliminate cavitation of oil in the oil pump.
US09103336B2 Check valve diaphragm micropump
A micropump device including a first wafer and a second wafer attached to the first wafer. The first and second wafers are configured to define a chamber therebetween having a predetermined volume. A third wafer is attached to the second wafer to define an inlet section and an outlet section in fluid communication with the chamber. At least one of the second and third wafers are formed to define a moveable diaphragm configured to change the predetermined volume of the chamber for pumping a fluid between the inlet section and the outlet section.
US09103330B2 Motor, disk drive apparatus, and fan
There is provided a motor including, a rotating portion and a stationary portion. The mounting plate includes a substantially cylindrical fixing cylindrical portion; an annular upper plate portion; an annular circumferential portion; and a mounting portion. A lower end of the fixing cylindrical portion is arranged at a level lower than that of a lower end of a bushing press-fit area. At least one of a lower end of a sleeve fixing area in which an outer circumferential surface of the sleeve and an inner circumferential surface of the bushing cylindrical portion are in contact with each other and a lower end of a radial gap which supports the shaft is arranged at a level higher than that of an upper end of the bushing press-fit area.
US09103320B1 Energy recovery cooling unit
A renewable energy power generation system for a cooling unit which comprises a housing sized to fit the cooling unit. The housing has an upper aperture and a lower aperture positioned over an exhaust port of the cooling unit. A rotor mounted wind turbine is in the housing between the upper aperture and the lower aperture. A venting flow coming through the exhaust port of the cooling unit will travel past the lower aperture of the housing to operate the wind turbine and then pass out of the upper aperture of the housing to cause the wind turbine to generate electricity.
US09103317B2 Wind operated electricity generating system
A wind operated electricity generating system for decreasing wind resistance of a moving vehicle and harvesting energy from the air encountered, comprises a box portion having a front opening, a rear opening and an inside compartment. When a vehicle is moving, air is funneled through the increasingly narrow inside compartment. The air is directed through a series of vanes to a plurality of blade of a multiple turbines that are thereby caused to rotate. The turbines are in turn mechanically connected to electromechanical generators, which generate electricity to be supplied to the vehicle. The electricity generated is stored in battery packs that may be utilized for propulsion of the vehicle. The electromechanical generator speed is controlled under a safe rotational speed by a braking mechanism attached to a shaft of the electromechanical generator.
US09103309B2 Fuel injection valve
A fuel injection valve is disclosed with enhanced uniformity of a swirl flow in the circumferential direction. The valve includes a swirling chamber having an inner wall surface with a helical curve and a swirling passage for guiding fuel into the chamber. The valve is formed such that the center of a circle as the basis of the helical curve and the center of a fuel injection hole open in the swirling chamber align with one another. The joint between the passage for swirling and the inner circumferential wall on the downstream side of the chamber at which both walls intersect is positioned between a line from the center of the hole to a point at which the curvature of the swirling chamber shape starts to change; and a tangent line of the side wall of the hole so drawn that it is in parallel to the line segment.
US09103304B2 Integrated intake manifold and compressor
An induction system for an internal combustion engine having at least one cylinder includes a centrifugal compressor configured to pressurize an airflow being received from the ambient. The induction system also includes an intake manifold configured to channel the pressurized airflow to the at least one cylinder. The centrifugal compressor is disposed within and integral to the intake manifold. An internal combustion engine employing such an induction system is also disclosed.
US09103301B2 Exhaust gas recirculation system for a motorcycle engine
An EGR gas passageway member is removably attached to a motorcycle cylinder assembly between the cylinder head and the cylinder of said motorcycle cylinder assembly in manner such that presence of the EGR gas passageway member is partially concealed. The EGR gas passageway member allows motorcycles to be provided with EGR systems without significantly impacting the aesthetic appearance of the engines of such motorcycles.
US09103299B2 Fuel delivery system for an internal combustion engine
A fuel delivery system for an internal combustion engine. The fuel delivery system includes a diaphragm carburetor for mixing air and fuel, a start preparation system for introducing fuel into the carburetor before a start of the engine, and a fuel enrichment system for providing an enriched fuel and air mixture when the engine is cranked.
US09103298B2 Seal for a variable area fan nozzle
A primary seal assembly for a variable area fan nozzle (VAFN) equipped turbofan engine includes a deformable seal and a seal retainer attached to the seal. The seal includes an inner wall and webs attached to the inner wall and extending transversely there-from. The inner wall and the webs extend circumferentially at least partially around a bypass duct of the turbofan engine. An inner surface of the inner wall interfaces with the VAFN when the VAFN is in the stowed position. The seal is compressed between the VAFN and the seal retainer when the VAFN is in the stowed position. And each of the webs is deformed into a non-planar configuration when the VAFN is in the stowed position.
US09103296B2 Traction control system for vehicle
A vehicle includes an engine, a slip ratio calculating unit, a target torque calculating unit, a fuel cut pattern determining unit, and a fuel cut control unit. The vehicle also includes a traction control system which includes an average output torque predicting unit and a fuel cut pattern correcting unit configured to correct the remaining fuel cut pattern during a unit section by judging the overage and shortage of generation of an output torque of the engine by comparison of the average output torque and the target torque.
US09103293B2 Method for reducing sensitivity for engine scavenging
A method for correcting a total cylinder air flow during scavenging by way of an oxygen sensor is disclosed. Additionally, cylinder trapped air amount and cylinder scavenging air amount are adjusted based on the corrected total cylinder air flow. The approach may reduce sensitivity between cylinder air flow estimates and fuel supplied for combustion.
US09103290B2 Control method for CVVL engine
A continuous variable valve lift engine may include determining whether an engine is in an idle state and an oil temperature of an engine is within a predetermined range, controlling, the engine in a predetermined control state when the engine is in the idle state and the oil temperature is within the predetermined range, and measuring, an error occurrence time when an error occurs in controlling the engine in the control state, and controlling the engine while switching the engine to a predetermined passive state when the error occurrence time is more than a preset time.
US09103286B2 Method and system for engine control
Methods and systems are provided for use of a windshield wiper fluid having a reformulated composition including one or more non-ionic surfactants. The fluid is delivered to the windshield in response to an operator demand for wiping the windshield. The same fluid is also delivered to a cylinder in response to an indication of abnormal cylinder combustion.
US09103272B2 Method and system for binary flow turbine control
Methods and systems are provided for adjusting the opening of a scroll valve of a binary flow turbine. Scroll valve adjustments are used at different engine operating conditions to improve engine performance and boost response. Scroll valve adjustments are coordinated with wastegate and EGR valve adjustments for improved engine control.
US09103267B2 Low coolant temperature fault diagnostic systems and methods
A diagnostic system for a vehicle includes a comparison module, a disabling module, and a fault indication module. The comparison module indicates whether a temperature of engine coolant is less than a first predetermined temperature. The disabling module disables the comparison module until the temperature of the engine coolant is greater than a second predetermined temperature. The fault indication module diagnoses a fault in response to the comparison module indicating that the temperature of the engine coolant is less than the first predetermined temperature.
US09103264B2 Device for discharging urea solution into an exhaust gas conduit
A device for the discharge of urea solution into an exhaust gas conduit (40) includes an injection nozzle (2) with a conduit connection (14) for the supply of urea solution, and a nozzle head which is conductively connected thereto. The urea solution may be supplied to an exhaust gas flow in a finely distributed manner by way of the nozzle head. Furthermore, the device includes a receiver (42), which surrounds an opening (46) in the exhaust gas conduit wall (44) and which is designed for the tight bearing of the nozzle head and for the releasable fastening of the injection nozzle (2). Moreover, a spring is provided for the non-positive fit bearing of the nozzle head in the receiver (42).
US09103260B2 Device for supplying liquid reducing agent and motor vehicle having the device
A device for supplying liquid reducing agent for an exhaust gas treatment device, includes at least a tank with an interior in which reducing agent can be stored, an intake in the interior, a delivery device situated in a separate chamber in a tank bottom of the tank, a line leading from the delivery device to the exhaust gas treatment device and passing through the tank bottom at the separate chamber, and a cleaning layer covering the intake. An intermediate space is formed between the intake and the cleaning layer and contains at least one sponge element which can absorb reducing agent and from which the delivery device can extract reducing agent through the intake. A motor vehicle having the device is also provided.
US09103259B2 Exhaust purification system of internal combustion engine
An exhaust purification system of an internal combustion engine is provided with a hydrocarbon feed valve arranged in an engine exhaust passage and an exhaust purification catalyst for causing NOX contained in exhaust gas and reformed hydrocarbons to react. The exhaust purification catalyst reduces NOX if a concentration of inflowing hydrocarbons vibrates within a predetermined range of amplitude and within a predetermined range of period and increases the amount of storage of NOX if the vibration period of the concentration of hydrocarbons longer is than a predetermined range. When hydrocarbons are being fed from the hydrocarbon feed valve within the predetermined range of amplitude and the predetermined range of period, if the amount of adsorption of hydrocarbons in the exhaust purification catalyst exceeds a predetermined judgment value of the adsorption amount, at least one of reducing amount of feed of hydrocarbons and lengthening feed interval of hydrocarbons is performed.
US09103258B2 Arrangement for introducing a liquid medium into exhaust combustion engine
An arrangement for introducing a liquid medium into exhaust gases from a combustion engine: A mixing chamber (3) has exhaust gases flow through it. Its downstream end (5) has an endwall (7) of thermally conductive material as an end surface of the mixing chamber (3). An injector injects the liquid medium spray into the mixing chamber (3) or into exhaust gases led into the mixing chamber (3). An exhaust passage (13) adjacent to the mixing chamber (3) is intended for exhaust gases to flow through it and is delineated from the mixing chamber (3) by the endwall (7). Heat flanges (14) of thermally conductive material are situated on at least part of the side of said endwall (7) which faces towards the exhaust passage (13), extend into the exhaust passage (13), absorb heat from exhaust gases which flow through the exhaust passage and give off this heat to the endwall.
US09103257B2 Method of determining DOC regeneration cycle
Disclosed herein is a method of determining a DOC regeneration cycle of a vehicle, in which the DOC regeneration cycle is determined such that a rich fuel-air mixture is repeatedly and periodically applied to the DOC, and the regeneration of the DOC is accelerated, thereby improving the purification performance of the DOC.
US09103256B2 Exhaust emission control device
An object is to reduce man-hours for evaluations of design, test, and the like for securing an exhaust gas purifier to an engine, while also making the exhaust gas purifier more compact. The exhaust gas purifier includes a plurality of filter bodies and to purify exhaust gas discharged from the engine, a purification casing including a plurality of purification cases that house the filter bodies, an exhaust gas pressure sensor to detect an exhaust gas pressure in the purification casing, and an exhaust gas temperature sensor to detect an exhaust gas temperature in the purification casing. The two sensors are disposed on the outer circumferential side of the purification casing so as to fit in the length range in the purification casing in the exhaust gas flow direction.
US09103254B2 Exhaust system thermal enclosure
An exhaust system for a power system contained in an engine compartment. The exhaust system includes a mount for two or more exhaust treatment devices and an enclosure surrounding the two or more exhaust treatment devices. The enclosure defines a space with a higher temperature than a space defined by the engine compartment during steady state operation of the power system. At least one electronic or fluid device is coupled to the enclosure or mount and located on an exterior of the enclosure.
US09103253B2 Thermal enhancer and hydrocarbon doser
A catalyst is positioned downstream of a thermal enhancer, such as a fuel-fired burner for example. A doser injects hydrocarbons into the thermal enhancer to maintain exhaust gas temperatures such that the catalyst is in an active condition and to raise exhaust gas temperatures to a level such that a diesel particulate filter can be regenerated.
US09103252B2 Modular exhaust treatment system
A modular exhaust after-treatment system including a plurality of exhaust after-treatment modules. Each module includes a housing defining a non-linear flow path arranged between an inlet passage and an outlet passage. The non-linear flow path includes a first portion adjacent the inlet passage that includes a first exhaust treatment component, a second portion downstream from the first portion, and a third portion downstream from second portion adjacent the outlet passage, wherein the third portion includes a second exhaust treatment component. The plurality of exhaust after-treatment modules are secured to each other in either horizontally or vertically.
US09103251B2 Devices and methods for compliant aftertreatment component assembly
A controller is configured to receive an input signal from a connection device of one or more aftertreatment components in an aftertreatment system for an internal combustion engine. The controller determines from the signal(s) whether the one or more aftertreatment components are properly installed for a particular aftertreatment system associated with the engine.
US09103250B2 Exhaust gas heat exchanger
An exhaust gas heat exchanger includes a tube through which exhaust gas flows, a fin disposed in the tube, and protruded tabs protruded from the tube or the fin. Each of the protruded tabs is inclined to an upstream side, and has a polygonal shape more than a quadrilateral shape having at least a bottom side, one lateral side and another lateral side. An angle of the one lateral side to the bottom side is set smaller than 90 degrees and than an angle of the other lateral side to the bottom side. The bottom side is placed to intersect with a perpendicular direction to the exhaust gas flow direction, and the other lateral side is located upstream from the one lateral side. According to the exhaust gas heat exchanger, it is possible to improve heat exchange efficiency by generating a swirl flow for facilitating heat transfer effectively.
US09103247B2 Exhaust system and method for mitigating degradation of components of a turbocharged engine with exhaust gas recirculation
A system and method for controlling an engine is described. In one example, an actuator is adjusted to reduce the possibility of degradation of an engine component. The method may provide increase engine compon ent operational life so as to improve engine emissions during the life cycle of the engine.
US09103246B2 System and method for reducing vacuum degradation in a vehicle
An engine including a lubricated vacuum source is disclosed. In one example, engine oil entrained in gases lubricates a vacuum pump. The approach may provide for improved efficiency when generating vacuum.
US09103243B2 Valve train for gas exchange valves of an internal combustion engine having a double-supported cam carriers
The invention relates to a valve train for gas exchange valves of an internal combustion engine, having a base camshaft, a plurality of cam carriers, which are arranged in a rotationally fixed and axially movable way on the base camshaft, as well as stopping devices for retaining the cam carriers in defined displacement positions along the base camshaft, with the stopping devices comprising in each case a pressure-applying element, which is inserted into a recess of the base camshaft and pressed in the radial direction of the base camshaft against an opposite inner circumferential section of the cam carrier. In order to counteract noise generation in the valve train, a first variant of the invention provides an additional pressure-applying element at an axial distance from the pressure-applying element. This additional pressure-applying element is pressed against an opposite inner circumferential section of the cam carrier. According to a second alternative or additional variant of the invention, the pressure-applying elements of different cam carriers are offset in relation to each other in the circumferential direction of the base camshaft.
US09103242B2 Valve timing adjustment apparatus
A planetary carrier supports a geared rotor from an inside in a radial direction, and receives a radial load in a first region, which is offset to one end from a center position in an axial direction. A ball bearing roller supports the planetary carrier from an outside in the radial direction in a second region, which is offset to an other end from the center position. The ball bearing roller is a single-row ball bearing roller that has an outer ring supported by a drive rotor, an inner ring which supports the planetary carrier, and a plurality of rolling elements which are rotatably installed in a single row to be in contact with and between the outer and the inner rings. The geared rotor is tilted relative to the axial direction, and contacts a driven rotor in the axial direction. An angle of the geared rotor relative to the axial direction is set to be smaller than a maximum allowable angle at which the inner ring is allowed to be tilted relative to the axial direction.
US09103239B2 Valve opening-closing timing control device and method for attaching front member thereof
A valve opening-closing timing control device includes: a driving rotating body that rotates synchronously with a crankshaft; a following rotating body that rotates integrally with a cam shaft; a phase control mechanism that controls changing of relative rotational phases of the driving and following rotating bodies; a torsion coil spring engaged by a front member of the driving rotating body and by the following driving body, and biases the following rotating body in an advance/retarded direction with respect to the driving rotating body. The front member includes multiple bearing surfaces to be attached with countersunk head screws, and an engaging part engaging an end of the torsion coil spring with the torsion coil spring in a twisted state. The engaging part includes a mounting part for a tool with which the end of the torsion coil spring is moved in a direction increasing torsion strength of the torsion coil spring.
US09103235B2 Valve drive apparatus and supercharger having the same
A first rod is rotatably connected to a first drive lever shaft and a first valve lever shaft. A second rod is rotatably connected to a second drive lever shaft and a second valve lever shaft. A first predetermined shape portion is formed at a location, which is spaced from an axis of an output shaft by a predetermined distance. A second predetermined shape portion is formed in a second drive lever and is contactable with the first predetermined shape portion. A spring is placed between the actuator and the second drive lever and urges the second drive lever in a predetermined direction, which coincides with a closing direction of a second valve and an approaching direction of the second predetermined shape portion toward the first predetermined shape portion.
US09103232B1 Steam condenser
An apparatus, system, and method for generating power including a boiler with a heat exchanger and an optional porous material at the heat exchanger. Further including an optional power-generating means that receives a vapor from the heat exchanger for generating power. Further including a condenser that receives the vapor from the heat exchanger. The condenser having a vapor chamber that receives the vapor, a porous material that receives the vapor, and a liquid chamber that receives a liquid condensed from the vapor. Further including an optional power-generating means that receives the liquid from the liquid chamber.
US09103228B2 Variable stator vane control system
The present application provides a variable stator vane control system. The variable stator vane control system may include a variable stator vane positioned by an actuator and a trimmer motor, a resolver to determine a position of the variable stator vane, and a controller in communication with the resolver, the actuator, and the trimmer motor to prevent over travel of the variable stator vane.
US09103224B2 Compliant plate seal for use with rotating machines and methods of assembling a rotating machine
A sealing assembly for use with a rotating machine is described herein. The rotating machine includes a stator casing that includes a radially inner surface that defines a cavity therein, and a rotor positioned within the cavity and spaced inwardly from the stator inner surface. The sealing assembly includes a support ring coupled to the stator casing, and a plurality of plate members coupled to the support ring and oriented circumferentially about the rotor. A resistance member extends inwardly from the support ring towards the rotor outer surface. The resistance member is coupled to the support ring and extends through each plate member of the plurality of plate members. At least one rotor land is defined circumferentially about the rotor outer surface. Each plate member is oriented adjacent the at least one rotor land.
US09103223B2 Shaft sealing device and rotating machine comprising same
A shaft sealing device is provided in an annular space between a rotor and a stator surrounding an outer periphery of the rotor, and divides the annular space in the direction of an axis of the rotor into a high-pressure region and a low-pressure region. The shaft sealing device includes a seal body obtained by stacking a plurality of thin plate sealing pieces in a circumferential direction of the rotor; and a high-pressure side plate that extends from the stator toward the radial inner side so as to run along the high-pressure side of the seal body, and is segmented into a plurality of portions in the circumferential direction, and includes a rigidity imparting member configured to impart rigidity in the direction of the axis to a portion of the surface of the high-pressure side plate that faces the high-pressure region.
US09103217B2 Turbine blade tip with tip shelf diffuser holes
A turbine blade having a tip including a tip shelf through which pass one or more diffuser cooling holes, the diffuser cooling holes directing the flow of cooling gas along the tip shelf, spreading the flow of cooling gas more evenly along the tip shelf and enhancing the formation of a curtain of cooling air along the tip shelf, leading to lower blade tip temperatures, reduced diversion of cooling air, and greater turbine blade life.
US09103212B2 Method for protecting the passage of air in a drive part coupling in an unprotected environment, coupling for implementation, and rotor line fitted with such couplings
A method to prevent blockage of air passages in curvic couplings between drive parts and to prevent potential damage to the drive parts during weakening of protective elements. To this end, axial abutments are formed by ring gears of the curvic couplings. A coupling includes two rings, each ring being on the end of one drive part and engaged with the other so as to transmit to the drive part a rotation around a central axis while allowing air to pass between male and female portions of the teeth of the rings behind a bearing area. The rings are extended in an at least partially radial manner relative to each other to form an outer ring extension and an inner ring extension respectively facing elements surrounding the drive part that are mounted onto the other ring. The rotor lines can be used in turbine engines.
US09103210B2 Rotary device
A rotary device is described for use in a rotary engine, or a compressor, or turbine, the rotary device comprising two rotors disposed adjacent each other and rotatable about substantially parallel axes of rotation. Each of the rotors has protrusions extending therefrom at regular intervals about the circumference of each to define an open portion of a sealable compression chamber between adjacent protrusions. Each protrusion has two side surfaces and a projecting end surface, wherein the meeting point between each side surface and the projecting end surface defines a tip. The two rotors are arranged such that upon contra rotation of the rotors, a protrusion of one of the rotors engages between a pair of protrusions on the other rotor, and the tips of the engaging rotor are in constant sealing contact with the opposing side surfaces of the pair of protrusions for a predetermined period of time. During the predetermined period of time, a sealed chamber is formed and the volume of the chamber is reduced to a predetermined level by the contra rotation.
US09103209B2 System for controlling speed of travel in a longwall shearer
A shearer system for removing material along a mineable distance relative to a mining environment includes a rail assembly to support movement of a shearer carriage thereon. The system further includes a haulage motor structured and arranged to move the shearer carriage along the rail assembly. The system has a rotatably driven cutter that is positionable relative to the shearer carriage. The system further includes an actuator supported by the shearer carriage for changing a cutting height of the cutter. The system further includes a controller that can control a velocity of the shearer carriage based on a translation speed of the cutter, a maximum speed of the shearer carriage, a current cutter height, and a desired cutter height. Optionally, the controller can further control the velocity of the shearer carriage based on a predetermined stopping distance of the shearer carriage.
US09103202B2 Gelled foam compositions and methods
The invention provides a method made of steps of injecting into a wellbore, a composition comprising a solvent, a surfactant, a foaming gas, a foam enhancer, a crosslinkable polymer, and a crosslinking agent capable of crosslinking the polymer, wherein the foam enhancer increases the foam half-life of the gel composition compared to the gel composition without the foam enhancer; and allowing viscosity of the composition to increase and form a gel.
US09103201B2 Method and system for configuring crude oil displacement system
A computer-implemented method for determining one or more operating modes for a crude oil displacement system is provided. The crude oil displacement system is arranged to inject an aqueous displacement fluid into one or more reservoirs, each reservoir comprising a porous and permeable rock formation, wherein crude oil and formation water are contained within a pore space of the rock formation. The crude oil displacement system is for use in displacing crude oil from the pore space of the rock formation. The computer-implemented method comprises the steps of receiving measurement data associated with one or more chemical characteristics of the displacement fluid and one or more chemical characteristics of the rock formation, the crude oil and the formation water of the one or more reservoirs, and inputting the measurement data and data representing a predetermined volume of oil into a computer-implemented predictive model. The predictive model is operated so as to generate predicted data indicative of a predicted additional amount of oil, compared to the predetermined volume of oil, that will be displaced by configuring the crude oil displacement system so as to inject the displacement fluid having the chemical characteristics into the one or more reservoirs. On the basis of the predicted data, the one or more operating modes of the crude oil displacement system are determined. A further computer-implemented method employing the predictive model in which predicted data indicative of one or more predicted chemical characteristics of the displacement fluid are generated is also provided. Additionally, a system for configuring a crude oil displacement system is provided.
US09103197B2 Switching device for, and a method of switching, a downhole tool
The switching device comprises an electronic switch (111) embedded within a downhole tool (100) and an activator (20) for remote switching of the electronic switch (111). The activator (20) may be a handheld unit that is used at the surface of the wellbore by an operator or may be a wireline run unit. The activator (20) permits wireless and contactless activation of the electronic switch (111) without the need for mechanical switches which could provide a point of failure for the downhole tool (100). The electronic switch (111) comprises an electronics module and a power source such as one or more batteries (126) wherein in the active configuration, the switch (111) can allow electrical connection between the electronics module and the power source (126) and in the inactive configuration, the switch (111) prevents electrical connection between the electronics module and the power source (126).
US09103196B2 Pipelined pulse-echo scheme for an acoustic image tool for use downhole
The present disclosure is related to apparatuses and methods for estimating borehole parameters using a plurality of reflections caused by a plurality of acoustic pulses. The reflections may overlap each other and/or the acoustic pulses. The methods may include estimating an envelope of the received acoustic signal at the at least one element of the array of transducers; and estimating at least one arrival time of at least one of the plurality of overlapping events from the envelope of the received acoustic signals, the arrival times being characteristic of the geometry of the borehole. The method may also include imaging the borehole wall. The apparatus may include an array of transducers on a rotatable transducer assembly with at least one element on the array configured to generate a plurality of acoustic pulses and receive reflections and a processor configured to perform the method.
US09103195B2 Monitor and control of directional drilling operations and simulations
A method includes performing a directional drilling operation. The method also includes receiving data from one or more sensors, wherein at least one of the one or more sensors output data related to a performance attribute of a downhole component that is from a group consisting of a downhole drilling motor and a rotary steerable tool. The downhole component comprises part of a drill string that is used to perform the directional drilling operation. The performance attribute is selected from a group consisting of rotations per unit of time of the downhole component, operating differential pressure across the downhole component and torque output of the downhole component. The method also includes displaying the data in a graphical and numerical representation on a graphical user interface screen.
US09103194B2 Method for constructing a fracture network grid from a Voronoi diagram
Method for optimizing the development of a fluid deposit using a fracture network grid constructed from a Voronoi diagram.Based on observations of the deposit a discrete fracture network is constructed in which each fracture is represented by an isotropic polygonal finite plane in terms of its dynamic properties, a plane comprising segments of intersection with other network fractures. A Voronoi diagram is constructed on each fracture plane by positioning Voronoi cell centers on the segments of intersection, and the transmissivities are calculated between centers of neighboring cells from the ratio between the surface area of the neighboring cells and the distance between the neighboring cells. The cells and transmissivities can then be used to construct an image of the fluid deposit. Finally, this image and a flow simulator are used to optimize the development of the fluid deposit.
US09103193B2 Mobile, modular, electrically powered system for use in fracturing underground formations
The present invention provides a method and system for providing on-site electrical power to a fracturing operation, and an electrically powered fracturing system. Natural gas can be used to drive a turbine generator in the production of electrical power. A scalable, electrically powered fracturing fleet is provided to pump fluids for the fracturing operation, obviating the need for a constant supply of diesel fuel to the site and reducing the site footprint and infrastructure required for the fracturing operation, when compared with conventional systems.
US09103186B2 Sealed jar
A device has a first, lower sub housing, a second, upper sub housing, and an extensible joint connecting the lower sub housing to the upper sub housing. A pressure equalization chamber is attached to the upper sub housing and demarcates an inner zone including an internal mechanism of the extensible joint, and an outer zone open to well bore fluids and pressure. A fluid barrier moves within the pressure equalization chamber in response to changes in well bore pressure to alter a volume of the inner zone to equalize a pressure of the inner zone.
US09103183B2 Method and apparatus for launching multiple balls in a well
A ball launcher for dispatching balls into a wellbore that includes a manifold for selective attachment to a wellhead assembly and a magazine mounted on the manifold in which the balls are stored for distribution to the manifold. Chambers are provided in a cylinder in the magazine, so that by rotating the cylinder the chambers register with a bore in the manifold, through which the balls are delivered to the wellbore. Flowing a flushing fluid into the bore in the manifold urges the balls downward. An auxiliary line through the manifold provides a conduit for the flushing fluid into the bore.
US09103175B2 Drill bit with hydraulically-activated force application device for controlling depth-of-cut of the drill bit
A drill bit includes a pad configured to extend and retract from a surface of the drill bit. A force application device extends and retracts the pad. The force application device includes a hydraulically-operated rotating member coupled to a speed reduction device configured to apply a force on drive unit that applies a force on the pad to cause the pad to extend from the drill bit face.
US09103172B1 Polycrystalline diamond compact including a pre-sintered polycrystalline diamond table including a nonmetallic catalyst that limits infiltration of a metallic-catalyst infiltrant therein and applications therefor
Embodiments of the invention relate to thermally-stable polycrystalline diamond compacts (“PDCs”), and methods of fabricating such PDCs. In an embodiment, a PDC includes a substrate and a pre-sintered polycrystalline diamond (“PCD”) table bonded to the substrate. The pre-sintered PCD table includes bonded diamond grains defining a plurality of interstitial regions. The pre-sintered PCD table further including a first region remote from the substrate including a nonmetallic catalyst and a metallic catalyst each of which is disposed interstitially between the bonded diamond grains thereof, and a second region bonded to the substrate including a metallic-catalyst infiltrant disposed interstitially between the bonded diamond grains thereof. A nonplanar boundary is located between the first region and the second region.
US09103171B2 Apparatus for controlling drill bit depth of cut using thermally expandable materials
A drill bit for use in drilling a borehole is described that includes a body including a side, face section and a passage in the body. The drill bit further includes a rubbing member disposed in the face section and configured to control a depth of cut for the drill bit, wherein the rubbing member comprises a thermally responsive material in thermal communication with the passage configured to control a position of the rubbing member with respect to the face section.
US09103168B2 Scraping-wheel drill bit
A scraping-wheel drill bit with a bit body configured at its upper extend for connection into a drillstring, comprising: a bit body (1) with at least one bit leg (3), and at least one scraping-wheel (2) set with a cutter-row (4). The scraping-wheel (2) is mounted for rotation on the corresponding bit leg (3) with a large angular deflection α which lies in the range of 20°≦|α|≦90°. The cutters on the scraping-wheel break rocks by means of successive scraping, forming a spiral-like tracks on the bottomhole, thus achieving high rock-breaking efficiency, even wear, high cooling performance, and a longer service life for the cutters, bearings and the drill bit.
US09103167B2 Rod-mounting apparatus for drilling apparatus
A rod-mounting apparatus for a drilling apparatus is disclosed. The rod-mounting apparatus comprises: a bracket installed at a frame of a main body of the drilling apparatus and having a rod; a base member rotatably mounted on the bracket; a rotating member hinged to one side of the base member to hold and rotate an end of a rod mounted to or separated from a driving shaft; a clamping unit mounted on the rotating member to clamp the end of the rod; and a driving unit mounted on the base member to rotate the rotating member in a direction in which in which the rod makes the rotating member stand or lie. The rod-mounting apparatus of the present invention enables rods to be smoothly connected or separated during a drilling work, thereby improving the drilling efficiency.
US09103166B2 Rod assembly and device for trenchless rehabilitation of pipelines
A rod assembly for a device for trenchless rehabilitation of pipelines includes at least two rod sections connectable to one another by a plug connection in a tension-proof manner, with at least a first one of the rod sections having an end formed with a lateral opening, and a second one of the rod sections having an end formed with a crosspiece for insertion in the lateral opening of the first rod section. Those end faces of the lateral opening and the crosspiece which are pressed against one another in response to a tensile load of the rod assembly have an arched configuration.
US09103165B2 Down-the-hole hammer
The present invention relates to a down-the-hole hammer comprising an external cylindrical outer wear sleeve (5), a sliding piston (8) mounted for reciprocating movement within the outer wear sleeve to strike a percussion bit (1) of a drill bit assembly located at the forward end of the outer wear sleeve. The drill bit assembly comprises a percussion bit having a head portion formed with an axially extending stub shank (32); axially extending splines (36) on the stub shank slideably engageable with complementary splines (35) formed on a drive chuck (4) whereby rotational drive from the chuck may be transmitted to the stub shank; a bit retaining ring (141) adapted for engagement with a retaining shoulder (37) on the stub shank to retain the stub shank in the drill bit assembly; and engagement means on the chuck adapted for connecting the chuck to a drive means of the fluid-operated percussion drill tool; the bit retaining ring comprises a shoulder (144) for engagement with an upper end of the chuck to hold the retaining ring in place in the assembly. The assembly further comprises a bushing (61) arranged above the chuck. An upper portion of the bushing has an internal diameter (B) dimensioned to provide a sealing fit with the piston nose (20). The bit retaining ring or the lower portion of the bushing has an internal diameter (E) dimensioned to provide a close sliding fit with the outer diameter of the retaining shoulder (37) on the stub shank (32).
US09103164B2 Air hammer for a boring machine
An air hammer for a boring machine includes a main body, a first bushing member, a second bushing member installed at an end on the opposite side of the main body, a bit unit installed at an end of the second bushing member, a piston hammer, a pneumatic discharge part formed at the top end of the second bushing member, and a pneumatic pressure distribution part formed on the piston hammer.
US09103161B2 Spacer tape
A spacer tape (9) for insulating glass (2) with at least two glass panes (3 and 5) consists of a substrate strip (21) and a hose (20) that is connected to the latter. The hose (20) can be pressed together, e.g., folded, so that its dimension, viewed crosswise to the longitudinal extension of the substrate strip (21), can be reduced, and the spacer tape (9) can be wound on drums. For use, the hose (20) is expanded, e.g., unfolded, and a compound (15), containing hygroscopic material, is introduced into its interior, which can take place by the longitudinally extending slot (25) in the hose (20). Then, the side walls (27) of the hose (20) are coated with adhesive (13), and at least two glass panes (3 and 5) of insulating glass (1) can be assembled with use of the spacer tape (9) as a spacer.
US09103159B2 Apparatus for an automatic door with an airtight frame
There is provided an apparatus for an automatic/semiautomatic door, and more particularly, to an apparatus for an automatic/semiautomatic door to prevent the door from leaving its track during an opening/closing process and to maintain airtightness between the inside and the outside when closed. In the apparatus for the automatic/semiautomatic door, airtight frames are separably assembled at the top, bottom and both sides of the automatic/semiautomatic door and wherein an airtight structure is buried in a floor surface coming in contact with the bottom of an opening/closing door of the automatic/semiautomatic door, so that the airtight frame is air-tightly and slidably inserted into the airtight structure. Therefore, any gap between the inside and outside is blocked to improve airtightness by preventing drafts, noise, etc. and the opening/closing door is prevented from shaking or leaving its track.
US09103151B2 Guide rail for a window lift and door system for a vehicle door
A guide rail for a window lifter for raising and lowering a window pane or door system for a vehicle door having a carrier and at least two guide rails disposed on the carrier. The guide rails comprise a guide profile that can be twisted or bent for guiding an adjusting part of the window lifter coupled to the window pane along an adjusting direction predetermined by the guide rails and the guide profile comprises a base and two legs protruding at obtuse draft angles from the ends of the base, such that the size of the draft angles is proportional to the bending or twisting of the guide rails prescribed by the kinematics of the retraction of the window pane over the adjusting travel of the window pane.
US09103150B1 Locking hinge for convertible stand/table
A locking hinge design relies on a mechanically-actuated magnetic clutch to selectively disengage first and second gears respectively coupled to first and second members and thereby selectively enable relative rotation between the first and second members about an axis of rotation. The mechanically-actuated magnetic clutch includes first and second magnetic members disposed in an opposing relationship, such that permanent magnets respectively disposed in each magnetic member may be placed into either a mutually attractive or mutually repellant relationship in response to relative movement therebetween. One of the magnetic members is coupled to one of the gears to move the gear along the axis of rotation and thereby selectively disengage or engage the gear from or with the other gear such that the gears are selectively engaged in response to mechanical movement of the magnetic members.
US09103146B2 Vehicle door hinge
In a vehicle door hinge, a moving hinge member is fixed to a mounting surface of a door, and a fixed hinge member is fixed to a mounting surface of a vehicle body. The moving hinge member is pivotally mounted to the fixed hinge member via a hinge shaft. The fixed hinge member has a deformation-promoting portion which meets the mounting surface of the vehicle body at an intersection. An extension line extends from a facing side of the fixed hinge member facing the mounting surface of the door. First and second tangential lines which contact an outer circumference of the hinge shaft extend perpendicular the mounting surface of the vehicle body. The intersection is positioned between the extension line and the second tangential line remote from the extension line compared with the first tangential line. The facing side is formed at right angles or approximate right angles with respect to the mounting surface of the vehicle body, and the fixed hinge member is unfolded to a T-shape.
US09103144B2 Door travel limiting device
A door travel limiting device includes a housing, a stop member, a compression spring, and a flexible member. The stop member is slidably received by the housing, and is slidable in first and second sliding directions, and has first and second ends respectively extending outwardly from different portions of the housing. The stop member is biased to slide in the first sliding direction, causing a portion proximate to its second end to normally retract into the housing. Extreme sliding positions of the stop member are limited by protrusions. A flexible member protrudes from the stop member to selectively engage portions of a housing track, to retain the second end of the stop member at an intermediate position between its first and second positions, when the stop member is first actuated to slide from the first position to the second position, and is then no longer actuated but biased.
US09103141B2 Connection means and lock mounting device with such connection means
Connection means for the mounting of lock details arranged to connect a first element with a second element, which two elements surround a third element, which connection means comprises a first screw means, which is provided with a threaded part to co-operate with a corresponding threaded part in a second screw means to provide an interconnection of the first element and the second element. The connection means comprises an intermediate part, which, in its first end, is provided with a first thread, which is arranged to co-operate with the first screw means for the connection to said first element, and which intermediate part, by its second end, is connected to the second element, the intermediate part in addition being provided with a third thread orientated perpendicular to said first thread, the third element being mounted to the third thread of the intermediate part by an element fixation means.
US09103139B2 Key having movable members and locking system
An illustrative key includes first and second substantially vertical blades being connected by a substantially horizontal connecting member such that an axial channel is formed between the two blades. Members may be slidingly coupled to the connecting member such that the members are moveable into the channel.
US09103138B2 Sliding-eave mount mechanism for canopy structure
A collapsible canopy structure includes one or more eaves, one or more fixed eave mounts, one or more sliding eave mounts and one or more vertical poles. Each of the vertical poles has a top end and a bottom end. Each of the vertical poles is connected by at least one of the one or more eaves. At least one of the fixed eave mounts is coupled to at least one of the eaves and attached proximate to the top end of at least one of the vertical poles. At least one of the sliding eave mounts is coupled to at least one of the eaves and slidingly coupled to one of the vertical poles between its top end and its bottom end. One or more detent elements include a round or spherical detent surface that engages an opening of the one or more vertical poles.
US09103136B2 Modular safety and support structure for use in large grain bins and a method for its use
A safety support structure for use in grain storage bins comprising vertical and horizontal parts, which can be connected to provide a scaffold sufficient to support one or more persons. This safety support structure can be used to prevent a person from becoming trapped in the grain contained within the bin as well as to provide a stable place for a person to work within the bin. The present safety support structure can be freestanding so as not to interfere with any operations above the structure, and also have the ability to be raised off the grain bin floor in order to facilitate removal of grain from the floor with a sweep auger.
US09103135B2 Portable barrier
A portable and collapsible barrier that is lightweight and can be easily transported and erected. The barrier includes a base, a top and an enclosed volume such as a diaphragm that can be expanded with a medium such as a gas or liquid to a desired shape. The expanded volume will act as a barrier. When a series of expanded barriers are connected, they will form a wall that can contain bulk materials or liquids.
US09103129B2 Process for the production of a surface covering having a barrier layer
The present invention relates to a process for the production of a surface covering comprising the steps of providing a PVC-based wear layer (1) substantially free of inorganic fillers, applying on said PVC-based layer (1) a top coating composition comprising polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) and a silane compound comprising at least one amine function, heating said PVC-based layer (1) and said top coating composition at a temperature equal or superior to 150° C. to form a wear layer top coating (2).
US09103128B2 Covering panel
A cladding panel for floors has a groove (12) along at least one edge or end face (17) and a tongue (6) along at least one other edge or end face (17). The cross-sections of the tongue (6) and the groove (12) are matched to one another and the panels (1, 2) being connectable by inserting the tongue (6) into the groove (12). On at least one wall surface (5) of the groove (12) and/or on at least one tongue surface (7), at least one bead (8) of cement is applied. On the tongue surface (7) there is a bead (8) that faces the wall surface (5) of the groove (12), the wall surface is also provided with a bead (9). The two beads (8, 9) are locked to one another after insertion of the tongue (6) into the groove (12). In other embodiments there may be additional beads (8) and (9) on the surfaces of the tongue (6) or groove (12), or positioned within recesses (10).
US09103123B2 Composite roof systems and methods of installation
A roofing system, assembly and related methods of manufacture and installation for simulating a metal roof includes a membrane which is installed over a roof deck and aesthetic ribs installed directly on the membrane layer using a hot melt adhesive having a melting temperature below the melting temperature of the membrane.
US09103121B2 Method of assembling a wall from prefabricated wall parts and a wall assembly
A method of assembling a wall from prefabricated wall parts, wherein edge surfaces of two wall parts are placed against each other leaving a gap there between, and wherein first and second sealing members are included in the gap to each act between said edge surfaces of the wall parts, which sealing members extend in a longitudinal direction of said edge surfaces and are spaced apart in a transverse direction of said edge surfaces to define a cavity there between, and wherein said cavity is filled with a solidifying liquid, such that the solidifying liquid acts on a cavity facing surface of each sealing member and presses the sealing member into engagement with at least one of the edge surfaces.
US09103120B2 Concrete/plastic wall panel and method of assembling
A method for forming a variably sized wall panel by supplying a face panel of a first material, the face panel having a front face and a back face, the back face having a plurality of crosspieces extending therefrom. The face panel is placed in a mold such that the front face of the face panel abuts a bottom of the mold and the back face of the face panel faces away from the bottom of the mold. A flowable second material is layered on top of the face panel and the flowable second material is allowed to harden such that the back face of the face panel and the crosspieces are frictionally bound to the hardened second material.
US09103119B2 Tie system for insulated concrete panels
A tie system for an insulated concrete panel. The tie system includes a first structural member formed with a first hub and a pair of first extension members coupled to the first hub. The first extension members extend outwardly from the first hub in generally opposite directions. The tie system further includes a second structural member formed with a second hub and a pair of second extension members coupled to the second hub. The second extension members extend outwardly from the second hub in generally opposite directions. As such, the first and second hubs may be rotatably coupled to one another in a manner that permits rotation of the hubs relative to one another. Thus, the tie system is shiftable between a collapsed configuration and an expanded configuration by rotating the first and second structural members relative to one another.
US09103117B1 Mechanical drop-away ceiling
A mechanical drop-away ceiling may include a frame and a panel. The frame may be configured to be suspended above a floor. The frame may include a movable element movable between a closed position and an open position. The panel may be selectively retained at the frame by the movable element in the closed position and may be free to drop away from the frame when the movable element is in the open position.
US09103116B2 Extendable sleeve for poured concrete deck
A tubular passage for poured concrete decks has an intumescent tube held in a two-part, clamshell base. First and second, spaced apart, funnel shaped, diaphragm seals are connected to a first tubular passage or an adjustable length tubular extension. A cap for closing either tube has an inclined outer surface to form a beveled entrance to the passage in the concrete. An aerator box may be connected to the base. Hinged ends on the base allow the shape and length of support to be altered.
US09103115B2 Sheet-like finishing element
A panel-like/sheet-like finishing element (11) for covering floors and walls, for example in the renovation of old buildings, is provided with heat-insulating and sound-absorbing properties if its interior (15) is provided, between outer covering layers (12, 13), with channel-forming undulating supporting structures (16) filled with high-density coarse granules (21). The supporting structures (16) are connected to the covering layers (12, 13) along the vertex lines (17) so as to provide wet-strength action, and the interior (15), between these covering layers, is sealed by enclosing edging strips (19) to provide wet-strength action, with the simultaneous inclusion of moisture-tight, but vapour-permeable, supporting layers (20) on covering layers (12, 13). If this finishing element (11) is mounted vertically, the granule-filled channels (14) run horizontally.
US09103106B1 U-shaped closet flange
The U-shaped closet flange is an auxiliary closet flange for use with a toilet that is seated onto an existing closet flange. The U-shaped closet flange fits around the rear base of a toilet from above the floor surface, and which improves the overall stability of the toilet by encircling the rear base of the toilet as well as across tops of opposing side lips of said base of said toilet. The U-shaped closet flange includes two generally parallel members that include grooves thereon to accommodate varying locales of bolts and bolt holes that extend up through the base of the toilet. The parallel members each include parallel base members that engage the floor surface, and interconnect with a cross member. Holes provided on the U-shaped closet flange enable screws to secure both the U-shaped closet flange and toilet in place to the surrounding floor.
US09103104B1 Bath fan and heater with cover having adjustable luver or depressible fastener and depressible release
Apparatus, systems and methods of using 70 CFM ventilation fans with heaters for bathrooms having depressibly engageable and depressibly releaseable light covers. The novel ventilation fans and heaters can be mounted to structure in ceilings and inside walls with telescoping suspension brackets that are affixed directly to separate sides of the housing to support the housing against joists and structural supports behind the ceiling. Adjustable louvers on the grill cover allow for outgoing heated air to travel in a different direction into a space from the incoming air travelling into the housing. Plastic type housings around blower wheels reduce undesirable noise effects. The light covers can be easily opened and closed by using depressible engageable fasteners, and depressible release fasteners.
US09103103B1 Automatic flushing urinal integrated with hand washing sink
The present invention features an automatic flushing urinal integrated with a hand washing sink. The hand washing sink is located right above the urinal with a sink drainage fluidly connected to the urinal. The urinal has a sensor located in the internal wall of the urinal to detect urine flow. When urine stops flowing, the sensor would trigger an automatic flushing to open a water valve for a predetermined period. The water valve is fluidly connected to a water spout disposed on the hand washing sink such that the water flowing from the water faucet is able to be used for hand washing first and then for urine flushing.
US09103101B2 Fire hydrant control valve
A method of draining a standpipe includes moving a valve control device toward a closed position sufficient to uncover at least one drain hole before the valve control device achieves a fully closed position, the at least one drain hole being disposed in a slot of a saturation ring and draining a contents of the standpipe through a drain route to an external portion of the standpipe, the drain route is defined by the drain hole in the valve seat ring, drain ports in the drain ring, outlet notches and a drain channel in the saturation ring. The drain hole is radially offset from each of the drain ports in the drain ring and each of the drain ports are radially offset from each of the outlet notches in the saturation ring. A valve control device is also disclosed.
US09103096B2 Operating oil temperature controller for hydraulic drive device
A control unit for controlling a flow rate control valve includes a first computing unit for determining an energy component that heats hydraulic oil, a first setting unit for setting a second relationship between a flow rate through an oil cooler and the energy component based on an experimentally or empirically known, first relationship between flow rate through the oil cooler and an amount of oil cooler heat radiation as derived by replacing the amount of oil cooler heat radiation in the first relationship to the energy component, and a second computing unit for determining the flow rate through the oil cooler based on the energy component determined by the first computing unit and the second relationship. The control unit controls the flow rate control valve according to the flow rate determined by the second computing unit.
US09103091B2 System and method to excavate and fill
A system and method to excavate and fill is disclosed. The system includes a canister adapted to receive and store excavated material. In addition, a plurality of blades are mounted inside of the canister about a horizontal shaft proximate a bottom end of the canister. A motor is adapted to rotate the plurality of blades to move the excavated material stored in the canister to the bottom end of the canister and a blower is adapted to blow the excavated material at the bottom end of the canister out of an opposing side of the canister through a discharge port. The canister includes a downward sloping lip disposed above the plurality of blades, where the downward sloping lip funnels the excavated material on to a downwardly rotating blade of the plurality of blades.
US09103090B2 Methods and apparatuses of supporting and bracing a pole
An apparatus comprising: a pole erected relative to a ground surface and defining a pole axis; a first anchor drive rod connected to the pole and extended, parallel to the pole axis, from the pole to below the ground surface; and a second anchor drive rod connected to the pole and extended, at a non zero angle to the pole axis, from the pole to below the ground surface. Methods of bracing and supporting the pole are also discussed.
US09103089B2 Loop and saddle connection system and method for mechanically stablized earth wall
A loop and saddle assembly includes a loop member and a saddle member. The loop member may include multiple layers (preferably 4 layers) of a geosynthetic material. The saddle member may have a curved seating surface adapted for cooperative engagement with the inner surface of the loop member. The saddle member may include a first generally planar truncated end at a first end of the curved seating surface and a second generally planar truncated end at a second end of the curved seating surface. The saddle member may include a lower surface with a concave profile extending from the first truncated end to the second truncated end. The loop member may be cast into a precast concrete panel with a portion of the loop member extending out of the precast concrete panel. The saddle member may be disposed in cooperate engagement with the loop member inside the loop member.
US09103088B2 Internal jacket leg cutter and method
An internal caisson/jacket leg cutter and method provides a frame having upper and lower end portions. The upper end portion has rigging that enables the frame to be lifted. Extensible arms are movably supported upon the frame. The arms extend and retract along generally radially extending lines. Extension of the arms enables them to contact the inside surface of a caisson/jacket leg and thus center and anchor the frame within the caisson/jacket leg interior. A cutting mechanism at the lower end portion of the frame includes one or more rotary cutters or milling devices that cut the caisson/jacket leg wall as these cutters traverse an arc shaped path, tracking the caisson/jacket leg wall.
US09103087B2 Method of reducing mud in an animal stable, pen, paddock, or arena
A system for and method of remediating existing mud and reducing future mud in an animal stable, pen, paddock, or arena through the use of geocells filled with aggregate matter. A new surface is formed through the placing of a layer of networked geocells filled with compacted aggregate matter on top of the existing stable, pen, paddock or arena ground soil. A geotextile barrier may be placed below the layer of networked geocells. An optional aggregate layer may also be added on top of the aggregate-filled geocells. The geocells distribute loads (weight from the animals) across the soil, preventing soil displacement and mud formation.
US09103083B1 Handi scoop system
An animal excrement collection system includes an animal excrement collection assembly having a hollow scooper device including a base having a flat tapered blade, a first curved upward first side wall, and a second curved upward second side wall; a cylindrical shaped open-ended collection receptacle having a body with a through-hole, at least two fasteners, and a handle; and a storage bag. The animal excrement collection system prevents the user from coming into contact with the animal excrement by scooping the animal excrement and dropping the animal excrement directly into the storage bag via the through-hole of the body thereby providing a sanitary means for preventing direct contact with the animal excrements.
US09103082B2 Apparatus and method for rapidly deflating tires to disable a land vehicle
An apparatus and a method for disabling a ground engaging traction device of a land vehicle includes at least one penetrator configured to breach the traction device, an articulated strap configured to move the apparatus between a retracted arrangement and an extended arrangement, a mass configured to deploy the apparatus to the extended arrangement, and a retractor configured to retract the apparatus to the retracted arrangement. The penetrators can be arranged in sections and the penetrators can be arranged so as to be multi-directional within each section.
US09103080B2 Articulating work platform support system, work platform system, and methods of use thereof
The invention includes a work platform and support system that includes a hub and joist configuration, wherein the hubs and joists are capable of articulation, or pivoting. One method of installation allows for sections of new work platform system to be extended from an existing suspended work platform system. The system is also capable of supporting, without failure, its own weight and at least four times the maximum intended load applied to it.
US09103076B2 Unitary safety surface tiles and associated structures
A unitary safety surface tile. The tile may interlock with at least one other tile. Each tile may be configured for disposing on a base of loose fill. Each tile may be configured for receiving a covering of loose fill. Each tile may include a plurality of hollow pockets. Each of the pockets may connect to at least one other pocket along a top edge of each pocket. Each of the pockets may engage the base of loose fill and/or receive the covering of loose fill. Each of the pockets may include one or more apertures for allowing passage of fluid through each of the pockets. Each tile may further include a plurality of edges. The edges may border the plurality of pockets. Each of one or more of the edges may be adapted for engaging at least one edge of at least one other unitary safety surface tile.
US09103073B2 System for fastening a rail, and fastening of a rail on a substrate
A system and a method for fastening a rail to a substrate, with a guide plate for laterally guiding the rail that has a standing surface associated with the substrate, a support element to support the guide plate in the assembly position, a spring element supported on the guide plate and at least one spring arm for exerting a resilient holding force onto the foot of the rail, and a tensioning means for tensioning the spring element. The fastening can be assembled in that the support element has a support lug supported on the substrate in the assembly position to reach under the standing surface of the guide plate in a way that the guide plate is supported on the substrate via the support lug in the region where the guide plate and support lug overlap.
US09103069B2 Method for dry spinning neutral and anionically modified cellulose and fibres made using the method
The present invention is directed towards a method for spinning neutral or anionically modified cellulose comprising the steps of: (a) preparing a suspension of the neutral or anionically modified cellulose in a continuous phase; (b) subjecting the suspension to high shear rate; (c) performing spinning by extruding the cellulose suspension into an airgap region comprising at least one heated zone to obtain spun fibers, (d) subjecting the spun fibers to at least one washing stages and (e) isolating the spun fibers from the at least one washing stages; as well as fibers obtained based on the method of the invention and paper or board products derived from such fibers.
US09103067B2 Textile fabric sheet having stain and liquid resistance and the preparation method thereof
Provided are a textile fabric sheet having stain and liquid resistance including a fabric sheet, a polyurethane coating layer formed on the fabric sheet and a stain-resistant coating layer formed on the polyurethane coating layer and a method of preparing the same. Thus, a texture characteristic of the fabric substrate itself can be exhibited, and due to the polyurethane coating layer and the stain-resistant coating layer stacked in two steps, excellent water resistance, stain resistance and air permeability can be exhibited.
US09103059B2 Methods and apparatus to manipulate embroidery designs via a communication network
Methods and apparatus to manipulate embroidery designs via a communication network are disclosed. An example apparatus includes An apparatus for manipulating an embroidery design via a communication network, comprising a client computer to: receive a communication from a server, the communication including embroidery data; display, via a user interface of the client computer, a first image based on the embroidery data; edit the embroidery data stored in a memory of the client computer to create modified embroidery data in response to receiving a command via the user interface of the client computer; and display, via the user interface of the client computer, a second image based on the modified embroidery data in the memory of the client computer.
US09103056B2 Fibrous structures comprising a polymer structure
Polymer structures and methods for making such polymer structures are provided. More particularly, polymer structures comprising a hydroxyl polymer structure, such as a fiber comprising a hydroxyl polymer are provided. Even more particularly, fibrous structures comprising a hydroxyl polymer structure, such as a fiber comprising a hydroxyl polymer, wherein the fibrous structure exhibits a CETM Factor of less than 20 and/or a CETM*L2 Factor of less than 950 are provided.
US09103054B2 Multi-dimensional weaving shaping machine of composite materials
A multi-dimensional weaving shaping machine of composite materials, including: a guide template including a plurality of cylindrical guiders arranged according to the geometrical shape of a prefabricated member; an electrical control three-dimensional motion mechanism including: a control signal receiving terminal configured to receive motion control signals corresponding to the geometrical shape of the prefabricated member; and a three-dimensional motion output terminal configured to form a motion track according to the motion control signals; a weaving needle being connected with the three-dimensional motion output terminal and making weave fibers distribute among the cylindrical guiders according to the geometrical shape of the prefabricated member. The multi-dimensional weaving shaping machine of composite materials of the disclosure utilizes the cylindrical guiders and the electrical control three-dimensional motion mechanism to make the weaving needle to drive braided cords to distribute among the cylindrical guiders along the motion track to form the guide template.
US09103051B2 Polymeric structures comprising a sulfosuccinate
Hydroxyl polymer-containing compositions, especially hydroxyl polymer-containing compositions that can be processed into polymeric structures, especially polymeric structures in the form of fibers are provided.
US09103048B2 Device and process for producing poly-crystalline or multi-crystalline silicon; ingot as well as wafer of poly-crystalline or multi-crystalline silicon produced thereby, and use for the manufacture of solar cells
A process and a device for producing crystalline silicon, particularly poly- or multi-crystalline silicon are described, wherein a melt of a silicon starting material is formed and the silicon melt is subsequently solidified in a directed orientation. A phase or a material is provided in gaseous, fluid or solid form above the melt in such a manner, that a concentration of a foreign atom selected from oxygen, carbon and nitrogen in the silicon melt and thus in the solidified crystalline silicon is controllable, and/or that a partial pressure of a gaseous component in a gas phase above the silicon melt is adjustable and/or controllable, the gaseous component being selected from oxygen gas, carbon gas and nitrogen gas and gaseous species containing at least one element selected from oxygen, carbon and nitrogen. The formation of impurity compound precipitations or inclusions, in particular of silicon carbide affecting electric properties of solar cells, can be effectively inhibited and prevented according to the present invention.
US09103046B2 Electrophoretic formation of nanostructured composites
The present invention is directed to composite films containing nanostructures within a polymer or monomeric matrix which composite may be formed on a metallic substrate and subsequently removed to provide bulk material. The nanostructures and polymer or monomer matrix may be assembled electrophoretically by initially providing a mixture of the nanostructures and polymer or monomer matrix material within generally anhydrous environments such as polar aprotic solvents followed by deposition of the composite film material.
US09103042B2 Electrochemical synthesis to produce lube stock from renewable feeds
Provided are processes for producing a lube basestock or wax from a feedstock of biological origin, the method including: providing a fatty acid originated from the feedstock of biological origin and an aromatic acid in a solvent comprising a base; and electrically coupling the fatty acid and the aromatic acid to produce a hydrocarbon, wherein the molar concentration of the fatty acid is greater than the molar concentration of the aromatic acid.
US09103041B2 Method for improving surface properties of the stainless steels for bipolar plate of polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cell
Disclosed is a method for improving surface properties of the stainless steels for bipolar plate of polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cell having low interfacial contact resistance and excellent corrosion resistance. The method for improving surface properties of the stainless steels according to one exemplary embodiment of the present invention includes: pickling a stainless steel with an aqueous sulfuric acid solution, the stainless steel comprising, by weight: C: 0.02% or less, N: 0.02% or less, Si: 0.4% or less, Mn: 0.2% or less, P: 0.04% or less, S: 0.02% or less, Cr: 25-32%, Mo: 0.1 to 5%, Cu: 0.1 to 2%, Ti: 0.5% or less, Nb: 0.5% or less, and the balance of Fe and other inevitable elements, and then washing the stainless steel with water, and then immersing the stainless steel in a mixture solution of nitric acid and hydrofluoric acid to form a passivation layer.
US09103039B2 Quaternary ammonium corrosion inhibitor
The present invention relates to a corrosion inhibitor for use in the oil and gas exploration, recovery and processing industries. In particular, the invention relates to a quaternary ammonium compound suitable for use as such a corrosion inhibitor, to the manufacture of the quaternary ammonium compound, to compositions containing it, and to methods of using it. Quaternary ammonium compounds of the invention have the formula (I) in which R is C1-6 alkyl, C2-6 alkenyl, aryl, aralkyl; X, Y, and Z are each independently hydrogen, or R1CO—, provided that at least one of X, Y and Z is R1CO, where R1 is C5-23 alkyl or alkenyl containing 0, 1, 2 or 3 double bonds; D is C2-6 alkylene; E is C2-4 alkylene; p, q and r are each, independently, integers from 0 to 20, with the proviso that p+q+r is from 3 to 20; and A− is an anion.
US09103038B2 Acidic compositions including reducing agents for scale and decolorization of metal stains
An acidic destaining composition for removing hard water and metal stains is disclosed. The composition comprises an acid in combination with a reducing agent and may preferably be formulated as a solid.
US09103035B2 Erosion resistant coating systems and processes therefor
A coating system and processes by which the coating system can be deposited on a surface region of a component to be resistant to erosion, and particularly resistant to erosion caused by high moisture content environments. The coating system includes a diffusion barrier layer, an intermediate layer overlying the diffusion barrier layer, and an outermost layer overlying the intermediate layer. The diffusion barrier layer is capable of inhibiting diffusion of damaging elements therethrough. The intermediate layer is an erosion-resistant material, having a hardness that is greater than the diffusion barrier layer, and being deposited by a near-net-shape laser deposition process. The outermost layer is erosion-resistant material, having a hardness that is greater that the hardness of the intermediate layer. The intermediate layer has a thickness of greater than the diffusion barrier layer and the outermost layer.
US09103032B2 Apparatus and method for forming thin films in solar cells
Apparatus for forming a solar cell comprises a housing defining a chamber including a substrate support. A sputtering source is configured to deposit particles of a first type over at least a portion of a surface of a substrate on the substrate support. An evaporation source is configured to deposit a plurality of particles of a second type over the portion of the surface of the substrate. A cooling unit is provided between the sputtering source and the evaporation source. A control system is provided for controlling the evaporation source based on a rate of mass flux emitted by the evaporation source.
US09103031B2 Method and system for growing a thin film using a gas cluster ion beam
A method of forming a thin film on a substrate is described. The method comprises providing a substrate in a reduced-pressure environment, and generating a gas cluster ion beam (GCIB) in the reduced-pressure environment from a pressurized gas mixture. A beam acceleration potential and a beam dose are set to achieve a thickness of the thin film ranging up to about 300 angstroms and to achieve a surface roughness of an upper surface of the thin film that is less than about 20 angstroms. The GCIB is accelerated according to the beam acceleration potential, and the accelerated GCIB is irradiated onto at least a portion of the substrate according to the beam dose. By doing so, the thin film is grown on the at least a portion of the substrate to achieve the thickness and the surface roughness.
US09103028B2 Method for forming metal oxide film, metal oxide film, and apparatus for forming metal oxide film
The present invention aims at providing a method for forming a metal oxide film which can further improve the production efficiency while maintaining low resistance of a metal oxide film formed thereby. In the method for forming a metal oxide film of the present invention, a solution (4) containing a metallic element and ammonia (4a) is formed into a mist. Meanwhile, a substrate (2) is heated. Then, the solution (4) formed into a mist is supplied onto a first main surface of the substrate (2) being heated.
US09103025B2 Magnetron sputtering apparatus and method of manufacturing semiconductor device
A magnetron sputtering apparatus includes a vacuum chamber, a target and a substrate holder disposed to face one another in the vacuum chamber, a magnetron disposed on the target side which is opposite to where the substrate holder is disposed, and a rotating mechanism for rotating the magnetron about an axis perpendicular to a face of the target. The magnetron includes an inner magnet formed of a sector-shaped frame and an outer magnet formed of a sector-shaped frame, these inner and outer magnets having a different polarity each other, the outer magnet being disposed to surround the inner magnet leaving a gap between the arcuate segments of the inner and outer magnets as well as a gap between straight segments of the inner and outer magnets, the width of these frames being substantially the same with each other.
US09103021B2 Amorphous diamond-like carbon coatings for increasing the thermal conductivity of structural frames in portable electronic devices
The disclosed embodiments provide a component for a portable electronic device. The component includes a structural frame within the portable electronic device and an amorphous diamond-like carbon (DLC) coating deposited on the surfaces and the edges of the structural frame, wherein the amorphous DLC coating increases a thermal conductivity of the structural frame.
US09103020B2 Metalized plastic articles and methods thereof
Metalized plastic substrates, and methods thereof are provided herein. The method includes providing a plastic having a plurality of accelerators dispersed in the plastic. The accelerators have a formula AMxByOz, in which A is one or more elements selected from groups 10 and 11 of the Element Periodic Table; M is one or more metal elements in three plus selected from the group consisting of Fe, Co, Mn, Al, Ga, In, Tl, and rare earth elements; and O is oxygen; and x=0-2, y=0.01-2; z=1-4; and the accelerators further have a formula A′M′mOn, in which A′ is one or more elements selected from groups 9, 10, and 11 of the periodic table; M is one or more elements selected from the group consisting of Cr, Mo, W, Se, Te, and Po; and O is oxygen; and m=0.01-2; n=2-4. The method includes the step of irradiating a surface of plastic substrate to expose at least a first accelerator. The method further includes plating the irradiated surface of the plastic substrate to form at least a first metal layer on the at least first accelerator, and then plating the first metal layer to form at least a second metal layer.
US09103018B2 Sputtering target temperature control utilizing layers having predetermined emissivity coefficients
A sputter coating apparatus for sputter coating a substrate in a processing chamber includes a target of sputter coating material supported within the processing chamber. The target has a sputtering surface and a back surface. The target is affixed to a backing plate such that the back surface of the target is disposed adjacent to a first surface of the backing plate. The backing plate is in fluid communication with a source of cooling fluid. The target back surface has a first layer selected to have a high thermal emissivity coefficient. The backing plate first surface carries a second layer having a high emissivity coefficient. The target back surface first layer and the backing plate first surface second layer provide enhanced heat transfer between the target and the backing plate via thermal radiation.
US09103016B2 Part having a DLC coating and method for applying the DLC coating
A part has a layer with a WC-C composition gradient, with the exception of a metal-containing undercoat and with the exception of an ion implantation layer and a DLC surface layer having cohesive behavior in scratch tests.
US09103010B2 Magnesium alloy structural member
A magnesium alloy structural member having excellent corrosion resistance is provided. The magnesium alloy structural member includes a magnesium alloy substrate that contains more than 7.5% by mass of Al and an anticorrosive layer formed on a surface of the substrate by chemical conversion treatment. The substrate contains a precipitate, typically, particles dispersed therein. The particles are made of an intermetallic compound containing at least one of Al and Mg and have an average particle size of 0.05 μm or more and 1 μm or less. The total area of the particles accounts for 1% by area or more and 20% by area or less. The anticorrosive layer includes a lower sublayer and a surface sublayer on the substrate in this order. The surface sublayer is denser than the lower sublayer. The substrate of the magnesium alloy structural member has high corrosion resistance because of a high Al content. The magnesium alloy structural member has excellent corrosion resistance because of the dense sublayer on the front side of the anticorrosive layer, which prevents a corrosive liquid from reaching the substrate. The porous lower sublayer can reduce the tendency of the anticorrosive layer to detach from the substrate, for example, upon impact and allows the magnesium alloy structural member to retain high corrosion resistance.
US09103008B2 High-characteristic steel for large-size parts
High-strength steel of which the chemical composition comprises, by weight: 0.03%≦C<0.2% Si≦0.49% 3%
US09103006B2 Nickel-titanium alloy including a rare earth element
Disclosed herein is a nickel-titanium alloy comprising nickel, titanium, and at least one rare earth element. The nickel-titanium alloy comprises from about 34 at. % to about 60 at. % nickel, from about 34 at. % to about 60 at. % titanium, and from about 0.1 at. % to about 15 at. % at least one rare earth element. The nickel-titanium alloy may further include one or more additional alloying elements. In addition to radiopacity, the nickel-titanium alloy preferably exhibits superelastic or shape memory behavior. Medical devices comprising the nickel-titanium alloy and a method of making them are also disclosed.
US09103005B2 Magnetic shielding material for superconducting magnet
A magnetic shielding material which can decrease the thickness by having excellent conductivity even at low temperatures of, for example, 77 K or lower, in a strong magnetic field of a magnetic flux density of 1 T or more is provide. A magnetic shielding material to be used at low temperatures of 77 K or lower in the magnetic field of a magnetic flux density of 1 T or more, comprises aluminum having a purity of 99.999% by mass or more.
US09103001B2 Ag—Au—Pd ternary alloy bonding wire
An Ag—Au—Pd ternary alloy bonding wire for semiconductor devices made from 4-10 mass % of gold having a purity of 99.999% or higher, 2-5 mass % of palladium having a purity of 99.99% or higher, and remaining mass % of silver (Ag) having a purity of 99.999% or higher; and this wire contains 15-70 mass ppm of oxidizing non-noble metallic elements, and is thermally annealed before being continuously drawn through dies, and is thermally tempered after being continuously drawn through the dies, and this wire is useful for ball bonding in a nitrogen atmosphere; Ag2Al and a Pd rich layer produced in the interface between the Ag—Au—Pd ternary alloy wire and an aluminum pad suppress the corrosion development between the Ag2Al intermetallic compound layer and the wire.
US09102996B2 Processes for the preparation of stannic oxide
Disclosed herein are processes for oxidising Sn2+ dissolved in an aqueous solution to stannic compounds using NO2 and optionally O2 as oxidants, wherein the aqueous solution is kept at a pH in the range of 0 to 7, wherein a salt Sn2+(Xn−)2/n and the oxidants are used according to the reaction scheme a Sn2+(Xn−)2/n +b O2+c NO2−→stannic compounds in which scheme a, b and c are mole numbers; with the proviso that when b is essentially zero, then the aqueous solution is essentially free of Cl−, HSO4− and SO42−.
US09102994B2 Process for separating at least one platinoid element from an acidic aqueous solution comprising, besides this platinoid element, one or more other chemical elements
The invention relates to a process for recovering at least one platinoid element contained in an acidic aqueous solution comprising chemical elements other than the platinoid element, the process comprising the steps of (a) bringing the acidic aqueous solution into contact with a reducing amount of a reducing agent which is a non-sulphurous and non-glucidic alcoholic compound chosen from cyclic, optionally aromatic, alcohols and aliphatic polyols, which reduces the platinoid element to its 0 oxidation state; and (b) separating the reduced platinoid element from the acidic aqueous solution.
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