| Document | Document Title |
|---|---|
| US09116226B2 |
Ultrasound image performance determination
Embodiments contemplate methods and systems for determining an image performance measurement in an ultrasound system. Embodiments contemplate that data may be received from a remote unit of an ultrasound imaging system. One or more determinations of the measure of performance of an image may be made, where the image may be derivable from at least part of the data. The measure of image performance may be displayed on a main unit of the ultrasound imaging system. |
| US09116225B2 |
Measuring apparatus
Provided is a measuring apparatus, including: a moving mechanism for moving a probe in an elevation direction; a first delay and sum circuit for performing delay and sum of reception signals at individual positions along the elevation direction to output a first add signal; a signal extraction circuit for letting an output of the first delay and sum circuit to pass through delay circuits to output in parallel first add signals obtained at different positions; a second delay and sum circuit for performing delay and sum of the first add signals output from the signal extraction circuit to output a second add signal; and an image processing circuit for generating image data by using the second add signal. Accordingly, image resolution in the elevation direction may be improved with a simple structure without deteriorating an image obtaining speed in the measuring apparatus for obtaining an ultrasonic image. |
| US09116224B2 |
Electronic device
Provided is an electronic device including a modulation unit (22) that modulates a sound signal to a modulation wave for a parametric speaker; an oscillator (12) to which the modulation wave is input; an equalizer (26) that corrects a frequency characteristic of a sound wave that is demodulated by the modulation wave; and a control unit (20) that selects a carrier frequency of the modulation wave and changes setting of the equalizer (26) on the basis of the selected carrier frequency. Thus, it is possible to provide the electronic device capable of correcting the frequency characteristic of the sound wave that is demodulated, for each carrier frequency of the modulation wave. |
| US09116222B1 |
Modular architecture for scalable phased array radars
In one aspect, a radar array assembly includes two or more vertical stiffeners each having bores with threads and a first radar module. The first radar module includes radar transmit and receive (T/R) modules and a chassis having channels configured to receive a coolant. The chassis includes shelves having ribs. The ribs have channels configured to receive the coolant and the ribs form slots to receive circuit cards disposed in parallel. The circuit cards include the T/R modules. The chassis also includes set screws attached to opposing sides of the chassis. The set screws have bores to accept fasteners to engage the threads on a corresponding one of the two or more vertical stiffeners. The first radar module is configured to operate as a stand-alone radar array. |
| US09116221B2 |
Variable precision location sharing
A secure location sharing system is disclosed that allows publishers to share their locations with subscribers. Each publishing device generates, encrypts and publishes its location information with a specified precision to a distribution service for distribution to one or more subscribing devices. The distribution service provides secure distribution of the location information to the distribution list but cannot access the publisher's precise location information, which remains encrypted until decrypted at the subscribing devices. Publishers can share their location information with varying levels of precision for different subscribers. Publishers can select at least two dimensions of location information precision: spatial and temporal. For less precise location sharing, the publishing device can randomize or otherwise obscure the precise location of the publishing device. The publisher can move a subscriber or a group of subscribers to a lower or higher level of location precision by generating new key pairs at the publishing device. |
| US09116219B1 |
System and methods for improved real time functional magnetic resonance imaging
A system and methods for high-speed functional magnetic resonance imaging using multi-slab echo-volumar imaging (EVI), specifically a combination of multi-slab excitation and single-shot 3D encoding with parallel imaging to reduce geometrical image distortion and blurring, and to increase blood oxygenation level-dependent (BOLD) sensitivity compared to conventional echo-planar imaging (EPI). |
| US09116218B2 |
System and method for tissue specific MR imaging of metabolites using spectral-spatially formed stimulated echo
A system for magnetic resonance (MR) spectroscopy includes a plurality of gradient coils positioned about a bore of a magnet and an RF coil assembly coupled to a pulse generator to emit RF pulse sequences and arranged to receive resulting MR signals from a subject of interest. A system control is also included in the MR spectroscopy system and is coupled to the plurality of gradient coils and the RF coil assembly. The system control is programmed to cause the RF coil assembly to emit a first RF pulse and a second RF pulse, wherein at least one of the first and second RF pulses is spectrally selective and at least one of the first and second RF pulses is spatially selective. The system control is also programmed to cause the RF coil assembly to emit a third RF pulse after a pre-defined time delay to generate a stimulated echo and detect MR signals resulting from the stimulated echo. |
| US09116215B2 |
Composite RF shield and method of making same
An imaging apparatus comprises an RF coil former comprising an inner surface and an outer surface and a composite RF shield positioned adjacently to the outer surface of the RF coil former so as to be formed about the RF coil former. The MRI system also comprises an RF coil positioned on the inner surface of the RF coil former. The RF coil former comprises a generally cylindrical member having an indented portion indented in a radial direction inwardly from the outer surface, and the composite RF shield comprises a first shield material positioned about the outer surface of the RF coil former, a second shield material position about the indented portion of the RF coil former, and a conformal shield material positioned about the RF coil former that electrically couples the first shield material to the second shield material. |
| US09116214B2 |
RF coil array having two or more switches built within each RF coil array element, compatible with both magnetic resonance and a temperature mapping
A system including a plurality of coil elements is provided. Each coil element is arranged with a first switch and a second switch. In a first mode, the first switch and the second switch are turned off to split each coil element into a first upper coil portion and a second lower coil portion, to transmit first radio frequency signals. In a second mode, the first switch and second switch are turned on to transform each coil element into a loop coil to simultaneously transmit or receive multiple second radio frequency signals. |
| US09116212B2 |
Pediatric coil assembly
In order to increase the signal to noise ratio, and thus increase the quality of images produced during pediatric MRI, a pediatric RF coil assembly includes a head coil and a flexible body coil in a single dedicated device shaped and sized for a child. The flexible body coil may be operable to at least partially surround and abut the body of the child located on the pediatric RF coil assembly, while the head coil may at least partially surround and abut the head of the child located on the pediatric RF coil assembly. In order to optimize workflow, the child may be positioned on the pediatric RF coil assembly in a first room and moved to a second room including an MRI system after the child is brought to sleep or sedated in the first room. The pediatric RF coil assembly and the child may be moved to the second room using a handle rotatably attached to the pediatric RF coil assembly, and may be positioned on a patient table of the MRI system when the imaging process is to begin. |
| US09116210B2 |
Integrated circuit testing module including signal shaping interface
Systems and methods of testing integrated circuits are disclosed. The systems include a test module configured to operate between automated testing equipment and an integrated circuit to be tested. The testing interface is configured to test the integrated circuit at a higher slew rate than the slew rate at which signals are received from the automated testing equipment. |
| US09116209B2 |
Gating WSP update and TAP updatedr with TAP IR enable
In a first embodiment a TAP 318 of IEEE standard 1149.1 is allowed to commandeer control from a WSP 202 of IEEE standard P1500 such that the P1500 architecture, normally controlled by the WSP, is rendered controllable by the TAP. In a second embodiment (1) the TAP and WSP based architectures are merged together such that the sharing of the previously described architectural elements are possible, and (2) the TAP and WSP test interfaces are merged into a single optimized test interface that is operable to perform all operations of each separate test interface. |
| US09116204B2 |
On-die all-digital delay measurement circuit
An all-digital delay measurement circuit (DMC) constructed on an integrated circuit (IC) die characterizes clocking circuits such as full phase rotation interpolators, also constructed on the IC die. The on-die all-digital DMC produces a digital output value proportional to the relative delay between two clocks, normalized to the clock period of the two clocks. |
| US09116200B2 |
Methodologies and test configurations for testing thermal interface materials
Methodologies and test configurations are provided for testing thermal interface materials and, in particular, methodologies and test configurations are provided for testing thermal interface materials used for testing integrated circuits. A test methodology includes applying a thermal interface material on a device under test. The test methodology further includes monitoring the device under test with a plurality of temperature sensors. The test methodology further includes determining whether any of the plurality of temperature sensors increases above a steady state. |
| US09116198B2 |
Planar three-axis magnetometer
A multi-axis GMR or TGMR based magnetic field sensor system is disclosed. Preferably a three axis sensor system is provided for sensing magnetic flux along three mutually orthogonal axes, which can be used for magnetic compass or other magnetic field sensing applications. The sensing units are operative to sense X and Y axis magnetic flux signals in the device (XY) plane, while Z axis sensitivity is achieved by use of a continuous ring shaped or octagonal magnetic concentrator that is adapted to convert the Z axis magnetic flux signal into magnetic flux signals in the XY plane. |
| US09116195B2 |
Magnetic sensor and sensitivity measuring method thereof
The present invention relates to a magnetic sensor with a sensitivity measuring function and a method thereof. Magnetic sensitivity surfaces detect flux density, and a switching unit extracts magnetic field intensity information of each axis, and inputs it to a sensitivity calculating unit. The sensitivity calculating unit calculates the sensitivity from the magnetic field intensity information about the individual axes from the magnetic sensitivity surfaces. The sensitivity calculating unit includes an axial component analyzing unit for analyzing the flux density from the magnetic sensitivity surfaces into magnetic components of the individual axes; a sensitivity decision unit for deciding the sensitivity by comparing the individual axial components of the magnetic field intensity from the axial component analyzing unit with a reference value; and a sensitivity correction unit for carrying out sensitivity correction in accordance with the sensitivity information from the sensitivity decision unit. |
| US09116194B2 |
Connector inspection system
There is provided a connector inspection system. A connector housing to be inspected includes reference flat surfaces formed by straight extending in an insertion direction of a connecting terminal in a top side outer peripheral region of a terminal receiving part so as not to overlap with a mounting range of a packing attachment surface, and an inspection jig includes guide flat surfaces for slidably making surface contact with the reference flat surfaces in the case of inserting a detecting pin into a hole for inspection of the connector housing, and a position and a direction of insertion of the inspection jig into the connector housing are regulated by sliding contact between the reference flat surfaces and the guide flat surfaces. |
| US09116190B2 |
Turn-twist apparatus revealing curvature and torsion of the magnetic field
An apparatus for observing turns and twists in magnetic phenomena including a nonferrous box, a stationary platform set in the middle of the box with a post to support a magnet, a right-hand and a left-hand screws united with coupling and having moving platforms at equal distance from the middle fixed platform with posts to support the specimen, the specimen poized by the magnetic field, and to hover the specimen move the platforms back and forth in continuous and intermittent motions, dc stepper motor to provide the motion, and controlled by power supply, push button switches, and limit switches. |
| US09116189B2 |
Measuring system for determining scatter parameters
A measuring system for determining scatter parameters of an electrical measurement object on a substrate, having a measuring machine having at least one measuring channel and at least one measuring probe electrically connected to at least one measuring channel and designed for non-contacting or contacting connection to an electrical signal line of the electrical measurement in the electronic circuit. A first positioning device is provided for at least one measuring probe, wherein at least one sensor detects a position of at least one measuring probe and outputs a position signal. |
| US09116188B2 |
Capacitance evaluation circuit and electronic device using the same
A capacitance evaluation circuit includes a capacitive voltage divider, an analog-to-digital converter (ADC) and a processing module. The capacitive voltage divider includes a switch circuit, a known capacitor and a capacitor under test. The switch circuit is controlled by first and second clock signals. A voltage variation at a first terminal of the known capacitor is coupled to a first terminal of the capacitor under test based on a conduction state of the switch circuit. The ADC converts a voltage on the first terminal of the capacitor under test into a digital signal. The processing module detects a capacitance and a capacitance variation of the capacitor under test according to the digital signal from the ADC and a parameter of the ADC. |
| US09116183B2 |
Dynamic characterisation of amplifier AM-PM distortion
There is disclosed a method of determining an AM-PM distortion measurement for an amplifier, the method comprising: generating a test waveform to be provided to the input of the amplifier; periodically puncturing the test waveform with a fixed-level reference signal to generate a modified test waveform which alternates between test periods in which a portion of the test waveform is present and reference periods in which the fixed-level reference signal is present; measuring the amplifier AM-PM distortion in a test period; measuring the phase difference between the input and the output of the amplifier in reference periods either side of the test period; estimating a phase error in the test period in dependence on phase differences measured in the reference periods; and estimating the true amplifier AM-PM distortion by removing the estimated phase error from the measured amplifier AM-PM distortion. |
| US09116181B2 |
Method, apparatus, and system for virtual cluster integration
Embodiments of the present invention relate to a virtual machine integration technology, and in particular, to a method, an apparatus, and a system for virtual cluster integration. The method includes: performing a calculation through a search algorithm to obtain the minimum number of physical machines which are capable of accommodating all virtual machines in a virtual cluster, and obtaining all virtual integration solutions satisfying the minimum number of physical machines; then calculating CPU voltage consumption of each virtual integration solution, and selecting a solution with lowest CPU voltage consumption from these virtual integration solutions; and formulating a virtual integration migration policy according to the virtual integration solution with the lowest CPU voltage consumption. Therefore, through the embodiments of the present invention, a virtual integration solution with lower CPU voltage energy consumption can be obtained, thereby greatly improving an energy saving and emission reduction effect of a virtual cluster integration solution. |
| US09116180B2 |
Current sensing system and method
There is provided a current sense circuit (134). An exemplary current sense circuit (134) comprises a voltage-to-current converter circuit (218) that is adapted to receive a voltage that is proportional to a load current drawn from a battery (110) by a load (202) and to produce a current proportional to the load current, and a current-to-voltage converter circuit (228) that is adapted to receive the current proportional to the load current and to produce a voltage proportional to the load current based on a regulated voltage source (230). |
| US09116178B1 |
Circuit tester with variable volume audible voltage indication
A circuit tester for testing operation of an electrical receptacle includes a speaker that generates an audible signal when a voltage is present at the electrical receptacle. A cap on the end of the circuit tester includes openings on the side through which the audible signal may pass. The cap may be rotated on/off the housing such that the openings on the side of the cap move along the side of the circuit tester and become partly or fully obstructed by the side of the circuit tester, thereby varying the volume of the audible signal. |
| US09116177B2 |
Systems and methods for an open circuit current limiter
A resistance measuring circuit includes a current generating component, a current control component, and a voltage measurement component. The magnitude of a target resistance can be measured by connecting the target resistance between first and second measurement terminals of the resistance measuring circuit, applying a current generated by the current generating component to the target resistance, and determining the voltage across the target resistance. When no target resistance is connected between the first and second measurement terminals, the current control component controls the current generating component to reduce current consumption of the resistance measuring circuit. |
| US09116176B2 |
Optical current transformer for gas-insulated apparatus
At least one conductor is disposed in sealed vessel, which is filled with insulating gas, an hand hole is provided to a part of sealed vessel and is closed by a sealed cover, and optical fibers are disposed that form a closed loop surrounding conductor in sealed vessel. Optical fibers are hermetically led out of sealed vessel from sealed cover and are provided with at least a light source unit and an optical signal processor unit at the lead-out end. An airtight hollow tube disposed looping around leaving a predefined distance of separation is provided to conductor in sealed vessel, the end of tube is hermetically connected to sealed cover by sealing/bonding means, and optical fibers can be inserted in sealing/bonding means. |
| US09116172B2 |
Connector for actuator of camera
A connector includes a support and an arm. The support is to support a to-be-test workpiece. The arm is rotatably connected to the support and includes a number of probes. Pinheads of the probes faces the support. When the arm is rotated to a predetermined position relative to the support, the pinheads of the probes contacts with a flexible printed circuit (FPC) of the to-be-tested workpiece. |
| US09116154B2 |
Ion generation using wetted porous material
The invention generally relates to systems and methods for mass spectrometry analysis of samples. In certain embodiments, the invention provides a mass spectrometry probe including at least one porous material connected to a high voltage source, in which the porous material is discrete from a flow of solvent. |
| US09116153B2 |
Arginine vasopressin pro-hormone as predictive biomarker for diabetes
Subject of the present invention are assays and in vitro methods for the prediction of the risk of a subject for contracting metabolic syndrome and/or diabetes mellitus and for diagnosing metabolic syndrome, comprising determining the level of arginine vasopressin pro-hormone or fragments thereof in a sample of a subject. |
| US09116152B2 |
Monoclonal antibodies which specifically recognize human liver-carboxylesterase 1, hybridoma cell lines which produce monoclonal antibodies, and uses thereof
The present invention relates to monoclonal antibodies which specifically recognize human liver-carboxylesterase 1, hybridoma cell lines which produce monoclonal antibodies, and uses thereof. The invention can be used for the objective analysis of the expression amount of human liver-carboxylesterase 1 in tissues and blood, and the like, by being specifically bound to the human liver-carboxylesterase 1. Therefore, liver cancer can be conveniently and quickly diagnosed from urine or blood. |
| US09116151B1 |
Detection plate for ATP-bioluminescence immunoassay and method of manufacturing
Disclosed is a method and associated device for the rapid identification of viable bacterial contaminants in food products. The method detects viable microbes by using a combined ATP-bioluminescence immunoassay. Escherichia coli O157:H7 and Salmonella enterica serovar Typhimurium were selected as target organisms in various matrices including ground beef homogenate, apple juice, milk, and phosphate-buffered saline. Specific antibodies were immobilized on the surface of well plates in which the sample matrices were incubated. The plates were washed, and the wells were incubated with BacTiter-Glo reagent in Mueller-Hinton II broth. Bioluminescent output was measured with a luminometer and signal-to-noise ratios were calculated. The LOD was not affected by the presence of non-target cells. A strong linear correlation was observed between the number of cells and luminescent output over 4 orders of magnitude. This method provides a means of simultaneously detecting and identifying viable pathogens in complex matrices. |
| US09116150B2 |
Method of and device for packing a chromatography column
A method and device for packing a chromatography column formed of one or more vibration devices attached to top and/or bottom flanges of the column. Media is added in one or more steps to the column, allowed to settle under the effects of gravity and then subjected to one or more treatments of vibration from the vibration devices until a suitably packed column is obtained. Liquid used to suspend the media while being placed into the column may be at least partially removed before or during the vibration step(s). The remaining liquid is then removed or replaced after the packing has been obtained. |
| US09116148B2 |
Fluid delivery system and method
A method and apparatus for delivering one or more fluids. Fluids may be delivered sequentially from a common vessel to a chemical, biological or biochemical process. |
| US09116143B2 |
System for measuring or monitoring the quality of a liquid medium with low energy consumption
A system for measuring or monitoring the quality of a liquid medium, has first and second sample-takeoff points in the liquid medium and a hydraulic circuit in which the samples taken off from said first and second sample-takeoff points circulate. The hydraulic circuit is mounted between the two sample-takeoff points and comprises two centrifugal impeller pumps, a measuring chamber situated between the two pumps, and a purge device mounted at a high point on the hydraulic circuit between one of the pumps and the measuring chamber. The whole of the hydraulic circuit is preferably totally immersed in the liquid medium. |
| US09116142B2 |
Methods and systems for nondisruptive loading of reagents in a body fluid workstation
A method of nondisruptive loading of reagents in a body fluid workstation including a plurality of analyzers, including: receiving application information to a first analyzer which needs loading of a reagent; loading the reagent into the first analyzer; controlling the first analyzer to pause dispensing of the reagent at a determined time; and controlling one or more other analyzers in the body fluid workstation to continue testing, wherein controlling the one or more other analyzers includes adjusting a test sequence of one or more sample racks in the one or more other analyzers subsequent to the first analyzer, and dispatching the one or more sample racks according to the adjusted test sequence. |
| US09116141B2 |
Microtrap assembly for greenhouse gas and air pollution monitoring
A microtrap assembly includes a carbon nanotube sorbent. The microtrap assembly may be employed as a preconcentrator operable to deliver a sample to an analytical device to measure the concentrations of greenhouse gases. A system includes a microtrap having a carbon nanotube sorbent for measuring the concentrations of greenhouse gases in a sample. |
| US09116138B2 |
Exhaust gas analysis system and program for this system
The exhaust gas analysis system urges a user to conduct a purge in an exhaust gas flow line by not only informing the user of the timing that the purge is necessary from the exhaust gas analysis system but also making it easy for the user to recognize the information. The exhaust gas analysis system comprises an exhaust gas flow line (L) where an exhaust gas flows, a measurement device 2, 3 that is arranged in the exhaust gas flow line (L) and that includes a pollutant component meter to measure a pollutant component to be a cause of pollutant of the exhaust gas flow line, and a display control device 5 that compares a measurement signal value obtained by the pollutant component meter or its arithmetic value with a predetermined pollutant tolerance and that displays a warning window on a display 21 in case that the measurement signal value or the arithmetic value exceeds the predetermined pollutant component tolerance. |
| US09116131B2 |
Method and monitoring device for the detection and monitoring of the contamination of an optical component in a device for laser material processing
A method and device for the detection and monitoring of the contamination of an optical component in a device for laser material processing, which emits a process laser beam through or onto the optical component. A measurement beam emitted by a light source is projected under an angle of incidence onto an optical surface of the optical component. The beam reflected from the outer surface of the protective window under the angle of reflection corresponding to the angle of incidence is conducted through an aperture stop onto a first light-sensitive detector so as to record the intensity of the reflected beam. The intensity of the scattered radiation, scattered diffusely from the optical surface of the component under a scattering angle, is recorded by a second light-sensitive detector. The degree of the contamination of the component is determined from the recorded intensities of the reflected beam and the scattered radiation. |
| US09116130B2 |
Reflection type optical sensor and image generation apparatus
A reflection type optical sensor that detect a surface condition of a moving body and that is used for an image generation apparatus which forms images on a recording media includes a light-emitting device which has a plurality of light emitter systems including at least two light-emitting members and a light-emitting optical system having a plurality of light-emitting lenses corresponding to a plurality of the light emitter systems and guiding light emitted from the light emitter systems to the moving body and a light-receiving device which has a light receiver system including at least two light-receiving members and a light-receiving optical system having light-receiving lenses corresponding to the at least two light-receiving members and guiding light reflected by the moving body to the light receiver system. The image generation apparatus has further a surface condition judging device in addition to the reflection type optical sensor. |
| US09116129B2 |
Chemical analyzer
A chemical analyzer includes a slide transport mechanism having a slide track adapted to hold a plurality of reagent test slides, a sample metering device, an incubator formed as a part of the slide transport mechanism to precisely maintain the temperature of the reagent test slides, a slide ejector mechanism to remove the slides from the slide transport mechanism, a sample preparation station, which includes a centrifuge, and associated electronics and software. The slide transport mechanism holds a plurality of trapezoidally-shaped reagent test slides about its circumference, which slides are loaded onto the transport mechanism by the slide inserter mechanism. The slide transport mechanism positions the reagent test slides under the sample metering device, which device deposits a predetermined volume of sample onto each slide. The slide transport mechanism also carries the slides above a reflectometer. After testing has been completed, the slide ejector mechanism automatically removes the reagent test slides from the slide transport mechanism. |
| US09116120B2 |
Three dimensional imaging
A method and apparatus are disclosed for providing image data for constructing an image of a region of a three dimensional target object. The method includes the steps of providing incident radiation, via at least one detector detecting an intensity of radiation scattered by the target object, repositioning incident radiation relative to the target object, subsequently detecting the intensity of radiation scattered by the target object, determining a probe function indicating an estimate of at least one characteristic of the incident radiation at one or more depths of the object and providing image data from which an image of one or more regions of the object may be constructed via an iterative process using the probe function. |
| US09116117B2 |
Chemical sensor with sidewall sensor surface
In one embodiment, a chemical sensor is described. The chemical sensor includes a chemically-sensitive field effect transistor including a floating gate conductor. A material defines an opening overlying the floating gate conductor. The material comprises a conductive element having an inner surface defining a lower portion of a sidewall of the opening. A dielectric is on the conductive element and has an inner surface defining an upper portion of the sidewall. |
| US09116111B2 |
Acoustic signal receiving apparatus and imaging apparatus
There is used an acoustic signal receiving apparatus including a wavelength-tunable light source for irradiating measurement light, a controller for controlling a wavelength of the measurement light, a Fabry-Perot probe having a first mirror on a side where the measurement light enters, a second mirror on a side where an elastic wave from an object enters, and a spacer film positioned between the first and second mirrors and deforms in response to the elastic wave, an array photosensor for detecting a reflected light amount of the measurement light by the Fabry-Perot probe, and a signal processor for acquiring an intensity of the incident elastic wave based on a change in the reflected light amount. The controller sweeps the wavelength of the measurement light, and the signal processor determines the wavelength based on the reflected light amount at each wavelength subjected to the sweep. |
| US09116109B2 |
Method and apparatus for detecting buried defects
One embodiment relates to a method of detecting a buried defect in a target microscopic metal feature. An imaging apparatus is configured to impinge charged particles with a landing energy such that the charged particles, on average, reach a depth within the target microscopic metal feature. In addition, the imaging apparatus is configured to filter out secondary electrons and detect backscattered electrons. The imaging apparatus is then operated to collect the backscattered electrons emitted from the target microscopic metal feature due to impingement of the charged particles. A backscattered electron (BSE) image of the target microscopic metal feature is compared with the BSE image of a reference microscopic metal feature to detect and classify the buried defect. Other embodiments, aspects and features are also disclosed. |
| US09116107B2 |
X-ray detection apparatus for X-ray flourescence analysis
The X-ray detection apparatus is equipped with an X-ray irradiation unit, an X-ray detector, a movable collimator and a shield for blocking X-rays. The shield blocks X-rays, which are to enter the X-ray detector directly from the X-ray irradiation unit. The shield also blocks fluorescent X-rays and scattered X-rays generated by irradiation of the collimator with X-rays. In such a manner, it is possible to prevent X-rays other than fluorescent X-rays from the sample S from being detected by the X-ray detector. The shield is joined with the collimator, so that the collimator and the shield move as a unit. It is possible to locate the shield even in a downsized X-ray detection apparatus. |
| US09116102B2 |
Imaging apparatus
An apparatus for measuring oil droplets and other bodies in a liquid, the apparatus comprising a body having an imaging device mounted therein, said body having a measurement window adjacent a measuring region through which an image of a fluid within the measurement region may be viewed by the imaging device, wherein a light source is provided for illuminating said measurement region, said light source being directed towards the imaging device by a light directing means, the apparatus including an ultrasonic transducer mechanically coupled to the measurement window for removing fouling from the measurement window and for creating cavitation within said measurement region, wherein said light directing means is located in or adjacent said measurement region to be exposed to said cavitation created by the ultrasonic transducer to remove fouling from said light directing means. |
| US09116100B2 |
Method for the identification of materials in a container
Method for the identification of a homogeneous material (e.g. a liquid) in a container (e.g. a bottle) by measuring its X-ray or gamma spectrum and deriving its specific attenuation function. The method comprises building a database of the attenuation functions of empty containers, of containers filled with various fluid materials and of the contained fluid materials itself (by subtracting or devoluting the empty-container-attenuation-function from the filled-container-attenuation-function), recording the spectrum of an unknown material in a container and comparing this spectrum to the spectra in the database. |
| US09116095B2 |
Method of inspecting wheel hub unit
In a method of inspecting a wheel hub unit configured by attaching a rolling bearing, which has an inner ring and an outer ring, to a hub wheel, an acoustic inspection dement is arranged so as to be in contact with an outer peripheral face of the outer ring, and the wheel hub unit (components except the outer ring) is rotated to measure an acoustic value of the outer ring and hence conduct inspection. When the wheel hub unit (components except the outer ring) is rotated, a preloading load that is equal to or higher than a load at which an axial internal clearance of the rolling bearing is a negative clearance is applied to the rolling bearing, and the axial internal clearance of the rolling bearing A is changed from a positive clearance before application of the load to a negative clearance after application of the load. |
| US09116093B2 |
Blood analyzer, blood analysis method, and computer program product
A blood analyzer, a blood analysis method, and a computer program product that can distinguishably detect abnormal lymphocytes, blasts, and atypical lymphocytes are provided. A blood analyzer prepares a first measurement sample from a first reagent containing a hemolyzing agent, a second reagent containing a fluorescence staining dye, and the blood specimen, and prepares a second measurement sample from a third reagent containing a hemolyzing agent, a fourth reagent containing a fluorescence staining dye, and the blood specimen. The blood analyzer measures each of the measurement samples, and distinguishably detects abnormal lymphocytes, blasts, and atypical lymphocytes in a blood specimen based on the measurement data. |
| US09116090B2 |
Method and device for preparing tissue and mould for pretreating tissue material
The invention relates to a method for preparing tissue material. The method comprises placing a quantity of tissue material in a closable but liquid-permeable assembly of a mold and enclosing element, enclosing the tissue material, guiding the tissue material placed in the receiving space at least through a hydrophilic liquid such as an alcohol solution, wherein water is extracted from the tissue material; and embedding the tissue material placed in the receiving space by at least partially filling the receiving space with a matrix material; wherein the assembly of mold and enclosing element has an orientation relative to a reference direction, and the orientation in one treatment step differs from the orientation in another treatment step. The invention also relates to a device and mold for performing the method. |
| US09116086B2 |
Deposition method and apparatus
A method for depositing a protective layer of material on a localized area on a substrate, such as a pattern of photo resist, includes forming a controlled environment around the substrate and positioning a hollow needle adjacent to the localized area on the substrate. A liquid comprising the material is directed through the hollow needle onto the localized area, so as to deposit a layer of the material on the localized area. The layer of material may act as a Z-contrast forming layer in TEM. |
| US09116085B2 |
Mist testing device
The present invention is a mist testing device having a freezing chamber 30 (a mist-freeze unit) that freezes a mist particle injected from a injection valve 12, a tray 40 (a frozen-mist-hold unit) that holds a frozen mist particle 42 frozen by the freezing chamber 30, and an analyze unit 86 that analyzes the frozen mist particle 42 held by the tray 40. |
| US09116084B2 |
Method and sampling system for taking sample from the atmosphere in the reactor containment of a nuclear plant
A sampling system for taking a sample from the atmosphere in a reactor containment of a nuclear plant, includes a sampling line which is connected to a vacuum system and to an analysis system. The sampling line opens into the reactor containment and has a restriction device connected upstream thereof on the gas side for connection to the atmosphere in the reactor containment. A method for taking such a sample is also provided. |
| US09116083B2 |
Test tap
A sampling system for use in a sampling station that includes a sampling device that is releasable connectable to a branch line so that it may be removed when not needed at that site via a releasable coupling. The device has a main tube connected to the releasable coupling via a valve that is manually operated through an operating tube that is connected to the main tube so that it also functions to clear the main tube. |
| US09116079B2 |
Dynamic test fixture
A text fixture apparatus for testing structures with a compression testing machine. The test fixture apparatus includes a support plate assembly and a load plate assembly. The support plate assembly includes two parallel support plates and has sloped surfaces to support a first and second structures and angles of equal magnitude and opposite slope. The load plate assembly is configured to oppose the support plate assembly, includes at least one load plate, and allows the load plate assembly to apply a load to the structures in response force on the support plate assembly, load plate assembly, or a combination thereof in a direction other than perpendicular to the sloped surfaces. A vertical force applied by the assemblies results in substantially equal and opposite horizontal components of force on the first structure and the second structure. Methods of testing and of making the apparatus are provided. |
| US09116077B2 |
Method and system for estimating food commodity intake
Disclosed are a method and a system for estimating food commodity intakes. The method includes (a) obtaining a food intake of a food searched as a subject to be estimated for food commodity intake based on food intake database, (b) obtaining a material mix ratio of the food searched based on the material mix ratio database and estimating a material mix ratio intake using the food intake, (c) detecting whether or not the material contained in the material mix ratio intake estimation results is a food commodity, (d) accumulating a weight data of the material that is detected to be a food commodity among the materials obtained from the material mix ratio intake estimation results, (e) repeatedly performing operations (b) to (d) on materials that are not food commodities, until all of the materials contained in the material mix ratio intake estimation results become food commodities, and (f) summing the accumulated weight data of each food commodity to estimate a food commodity intake of the food, when all of the materials contained in the material mix ratio intake estimation results are food commodities. According to the present invention, more accurate food intake data can be conveniently estimated by converting all ingredients of mixed foods into food commodities. |
| US09116073B2 |
Lens module testing method
A lens module testing method includes the following steps: providing a lens module having a lens and a barrel; determining whether a modulation transfer function value of the lens is in a predetermined range; if not, separating the lens and the barrel, and forming a first coating layer and a second coating layer on the lens to obtain a coated lens having a number of dots; capturing a first image of the coated lens; placing the coated lens in the barrel to obtain the lens module, and capturing a second image of the coated lens; randomly choosing one dot from the dots, and determining an actual moving distance of the chosen dot using a 3D-Digital Image Correlation according to the first image and the second image; adjusting a size of the lens according to the actual moving distance; and displaying the adjusted size of the lens to a user. |
| US09116072B2 |
Method and control unit for checking vehicle tires
In a method for checking vehicle tires, wheel sensor signals of at least one wheel of the vehicle are recorded over a time period, and a comparative value is determined to indicate a travel distance of the wheel. A reference travel distance covered by the vehicle in the time period is determined independently of the wheel sensor signals, and an individual ratio value of the wheel is formed from the wheel travel distance and the reference travel distance. The behavior of the ratio value over time is determined, and a determination is made concerning changes to the tire of the wheel. |
| US09116070B2 |
Hydraulic test device for head loss of strainer and test method thereof
Provided is a hydraulic test device for head loss of a strainer and a test method thereof, wherein the hydraulic test device comprises a circulation pipe; an inflow container; a container; a debris interceptor; sensors; a circulation pump; a flow meter; a circulation heating heater; and a data acquisition part which stores data sensed by each sensor, flow rate data. |
| US09116068B2 |
Low speed wind tunnel design for agricultural spray particle analysis
A wind tunnel device defines a cyclical tunnel to receive continuous airflow. Airflow is delivered through the tunnel to a testing region that includes a first portion carrying an arm including a spray tip configured to spray particulates in the testing region at an angle, and a second portion including an enlarged cutout region configured to receive the angled sprayed particulates. As airflow carries the angled spray particulates into the second portion, the enlarged cutout region enables the spray particulates to pass through and exit the second portion of the testing region. Analysis in the second region may be conducted through transparent walls free of openings to minimize exposure of the spray particulates to the exterior of the device. A scrubber is adapted to extract spray mist from the airflow as the airflow exits the testing region and is re-circulated through the cyclical tunnel. |
| US09116067B1 |
Method for detecting leaks around seals
A method whereby a seal, such as a door or window seal including a joint or seam, is tested for leaks. An aerosol can has an environmentally safe propellant and a liquid therein that exits the can as a tracer mist, which tracer mist may contain a disappearing dye. The can is positioned on one side of the seal being tested and is sprayed at this side with the opposite side observed, either visually, or with the aid of a marker strip, in order to determine if any of the tracer mist passes from the one side of the seal to the other side. |
| US09116064B2 |
Structure of built-in self-test for pressure tester and method thereof
A built-in self-test structure for a pressure tester and a method thereof are provided. The built-in self-test structure includes a substrate, a plurality of membrane layers, a fixing portion, an electrical heating unit and a sensing circuit unit. The membrane layers are formed on the substrate. The fixing portion is configured on the membrane layers and includes a notch. The notch and the membrane layers define a cavity. The electrical heating unit is configured on one membrane layer, and the sensing circuit unit is configured on another membrane layer. The electrical heating unit heats up to increase the pressure in the cavity according to an input voltage, so that the membrane layers have a small deformation. The sensing circuit unit outputs a test signal according to the small deformation. |
| US09116061B2 |
Device and method for testing pulling force
An exemplary embodiment of a testing device for testing a pulling force includes a shell having a test platform, a load sensor mechanism, a control system, a drive and transmission mechanism and a material clamping mechanism. Two portions of a test object are clasped by the load sensor mechanism and the clamp. When the load sensor mechanism is driven to move further away from the clamp via the drive and transmission mechanism, a pulling force perpendicular to the test platform is generated between the two portions of the test object. The load sensor mechanism detects the pulling force and feeds back the detection to the control system. |
| US09116056B2 |
Building block transducer assembly
A transducer assembly configured to accommodate a plurality of individually tunable sensing elements of various geometries and configurations by using a cap and an accompanying capillary tube. The configuration of the various embodiments described herein eliminate the header to flat plate welds of the prior art, and therefore better accommodates a plurality of sensing elements and corresponding header assemblies within one transducer assembly. |
| US09116051B2 |
Actively cooled gas turbine sensor probe housing
An actively cooled turbine sensor assembly is designed to withstand post-combustion gas-path conditions of gas turbine engines. The housing forms part of a cooling system and includes an elongated tubular structure that may be inserted into the hot flow path. The distal end portion of the sensor assembly is contoured to minimize heat transfer. The housing also includes leading and trailing plenums for flowing cooling air through the housing and out through the distal end portion. Additional side cavities may also be provided for active cooling of the sensor and reducing possible heat conduction paths to the sensor. |
| US09116049B2 |
Thermal sensor system and method based on current ratio
A thermal sensor system which includes a thermal sensor and a voltage control network which applies a reference voltage level and a delta voltage level to the same or different thermal sensors. The thermal sensor develops a reference current signal in response to the reference voltage level and a delta current signal in response to the delta voltage level. A current gain network adjusts gain of the delta current signal. A current compare sensor, which is responsive to the reference current signal and the delta current signal, provides a comparison metric. A controller controls the current gain network to adjust gain of the delta current signal while monitoring the comparison metric to determine a gain differential value indicative of a current ratio between the current signals. The controller determines a temperature value based on the gain differential value. A LUT may be used to retrieve the temperature. |
| US09116047B2 |
Systems and methods for controlling the optical path length between a laser and an optical cavity
Systems and methods for controlling the optical path length between a feedback enabled laser and a cavity, and hence the optical feedback phase. A phasor element, positioned along an optical path between the laser and the cavity coupling mirror, includes a gas medium within a volume defined by the phasor element. The phasor element is configured to adjust or control an optical path length of the laser light between the laser and the cavity coupling mirror by adjusting or controlling a density of the gas medium within the phasor volume. |
| US09116045B2 |
UV dosimetry system taking into account effective SPF
A UV exposure dosimetry system includes at least one UV sensor that accurately measures the UV irradiance intensity. The UV dosimetry system integrates the measured UV irradiance intensity over time to calculate the real-time UV dosage and the vitamin D production by taking into account factors comprising UV sensor location, body surface area, clothing coverage, and the effective sun protection factor of the applied sunscreen. Based on the measurement, the system can predict the time remaining to skin burn and the time remaining to reach daily goal of vitamin D production. The UV dosimetry system supports multi-user control through an advanced and user friendly input and output interface. |
| US09116043B2 |
Ambient light sensors with photodiode leakage current compensation
An electronic device may have a display with a brightness that is adjusted based on data gathered from one or more ambient light sensors (ALSs). In one suitable arrangement, an ALS may include a photodiode, a temperature sensor, a scaler, an analog-to-digital converter (ADC), and a subtractor. The subtractor may have a first input coupled to the photodiode via the ADC, a second input coupled to the temperature sensor via the scaler, and an output on which a leakage-compensated sensor output is provided. In another suitable arrangement, the ALS may include first and second photodiodes, a light blocking layer formed over the second photodiode, a scaler, and a subtractor. The subtractor may have a first input coupled to the first photodiode, a second input coupled to the second photodiode via the scaler, and an output on which a leakage-compensated sensor output is provided. |
| US09116039B2 |
Sensor including dielectric metamaterial microarray
The present disclosure is directed to electromagnetic radiation sensors including micro-lenses and to methods of constructing and utilizing such electromagnetic radiation sensors. In one embodiment there is provided an electromagnetic radiation sensor comprising a dielectric substrate including a front surface and a rear surface, an electromagnetic radiation detector element disposed on the rear surface of the substrate, and a lens comprising a three dimensional polaritonic metamaterial structure including a pattern of features formed in the front surface of the substrate, the lens configured to focus electromagnetic radiation incident on the front surface of the substrate onto the electromagnetic radiation detector element. |
| US09116037B2 |
Passive infrared detector
An infrared detector (301) is provided which comprises a pyroelectric detector (303) having first and second sensing elements (345), an aperture stop (311), and a Fresnel lens array (305). The detector may be used as a passive infrared sensor unit for detecting intrusion into large openings. |
| US09116029B2 |
Optical liquid level sensor having a plurality of optical fibers
An optical level sensor mounted to a ceiling of a tank includes a sensor tube. The sensor tube is provided with support and guidance elements extending with at least three radially distributed positions inside the tank. The support and guidance elements collect, support, and guide optical fibers to different heights of the tank. Each optical fiber has a number of input sides and a number of turns forming sensor heads between two input sides, for a different level. The corresponding support and guidance element bends the fiber in the turns forming sensor heads of a small radius r around at least one corresponding guideway. |
| US09116026B1 |
Measuring device
A measuring device that has an upper guide movably engaged with a lower guide. The upper guide is extendable relative to the lower guide in a first direction along a first axis, and retractable relative to the lower guide in a second direction along the first axis. The upper guide and lower guide form a straightedge that is adjustable. The measuring device includes one or more rulers and levels. A locking mechanism operatively engages with the upper guide and lower guide. The locking mechanism is configured to lock and maintain a position of the upper guide relative to the lower guide and unlock to allow extension and retraction of the upper guide relative to the lower guide. The units of rulers on the upper guide can increase along the second direction, and the units of the rulers on the lower guide can increase along the first direction. |
| US09116025B2 |
Cam-locking dissimilar material sleeve
A cam-locking dissimilar material sleeve installed on an outer surface of an expansion shaft of an inspection robot inserted into a heat transfer tube of a steam generator for generating nuclear power to inspect the heat transfer tube, the cam-locking dissimilar material sleeve includes: a tension part formed of steel and including a plurality of upwardly opened slits and a plurality of downwardly opened slits alternately formed in zigzags and legs formed between the upwardly opened slits and the downwardly opened slits; a plurality of upper contact parts formed of a synthetic resin through injection-molding to surround an upper end of the tension part and surround parts located between the upwardly opened slits; and a plurality of lower contact parts formed of a synthetic resin through injection-molding to surround a lower end of the tension part and surround parts located between the downwardly opened slits. |
| US09116024B2 |
Device for measuring parietal parameters
The present invention relates to a measuring device comprising a flexible polymer plate (1) and at least one cavity (R0) formed within the polymer plate, comprising a window opening onto an upper face of the polymer plate and configured to receive at least one physical value sensor (SR) arranged in a casing (SP0). The measuring device also comprises electrical conductors (11, 13) embedded in the polymer plate and comprising a termination extending into the cavity (R0), to electrically couple the sensor to an electrical input/output point (4) of the polymer plate. Application mainly to measurements of parietal parameters. |
| US09116021B2 |
Sensor device
A sensor device includes a detector portion, plural metal terminals that transmit a detection signal from the detector portion, and a housing portion, which integrally supports the detector portion and metal terminals, formed from resin, leading end portions of the plural metal terminals configuring connector terminals, and the plural metal terminals being disposed with at least one portion thereof aligned when seen from the axial direction of the connector terminals, wherein protruding portions protruding in a direction differing from the axial direction of the connector terminals are provided on the metal terminals. |
| US09116019B2 |
Technique for compensating for abnormal output of resolver for environmentally friendly vehicle
Disclosed is a technique for compensating for an abnormal output of a resolver. More specifically, a central processing unit (CPU) sets a current motor position angle before compensation θn,ORG as a current motor position angle θn and obtains a motor position change Δθn[rad] between a current sampling [n] and a previous sampling [n−1] and a motor position change Δθn-1[rad] between the previous sampling [n−1] and a more previous sampling [n−2]. Subsequently, a variable A is calculated based on the above angles. The CPU determines whether to perform the compensation by comparing the calculated variable A and a calibration variable K and calculates a current motor position angle for compensation θn[rad]. Finally, the CPU compensates for the absence of motor rotor position information with the calculated current motor position angle for compensation θn[rad]. |
| US09116018B2 |
Linear or rotary position sensor with a permanent magnet for detecting a ferromagnetic target
The disclosure relates to a contactless magnetic sensor for measuring the angular or linear movement of a ferromagnetic target. The purpose of the disclosure is to make a position sensor having reduced dimensions and capable of detecting a piece of position information as soon as the sensor is powered without degrading the performance thereof. To this end, the disclosure relates to a mobile sensor that includes at least one permanent magnet, at least one ferromagnetic member at least one magnetically sensitive member, the permanent magnet having an upper surface opposite the ferromagnetic target, wherein the permanent magnet has a substantially cylindrical or parallelepiped shape and includes a cavity, the ferromagnetic member being arranged inside the cavity and the magnetically sensitive member being arranged inside the cavity above the ferromagnetic member and below the upper surface of the magnet. |
| US09116014B2 |
Apparatus and method for energy display
The present disclosure enables comparison of an energy consuming propensity of each energy consumer with that of other energy consumers. To this end, energy usage information of each energy consumer and comparison conditions (size of house, the number of families, energy consuming regions) are collected, and energy consuming propensities of other energy consumers are compared with energy consuming propensity of each energy consumer similar in terms of living environment, and the comparison is shown. A variety of statistical information for comparison is provided through an IHD (In-Home Display) installed at each house, whereby the energy consumers can easily and conveniently evaluate his own energy consuming propensity. An objective evaluation of his or her position related to energy consumption of other energy consumers promotes more active energy conservation and more rational energy consumption by being stimulated by the energy consumption of other energy consumers. |
| US09116013B2 |
System and method for controlling a connection of a meter to a power line
The disclosure relates to a meter for monitoring usage of power provided by a power transmission system to a site. The meter comprises: a communication module to generate communications carried over the system; a request manager module to process messages received from a head end of the system; a meter module connected to a power feed of the system; a connection manager module to evaluate readings and data and to generate connection signals for the meter in view of the readings; and a relay having a first position where the power is connected to the site and a second position where the power is disconnected, the relay being controlled by the connection signals. The connection manager module generates a first signal for the relay to disconnect the power when an over-voltage condition or an over-current condition on the system has been detected. |
| US09116012B2 |
On-vehicle apparatus
A storage part of an on-vehicle apparatus stores simplified map data of which content is simplified as compared to original map data used for route guidance. An image generator of the on-vehicle apparatus retrieves the simplified map data stored on the storage part and generates a map image based on the simplified map data. Then a transmitter of the on-vehicle apparatus transmits the map image generated by the image generator to a portable device, in response to a demand from the portable device. |
| US09116006B2 |
Apparatus and method for determining indoor collection points and collecting heterogeneous infrastructure measurement information
Disclosed herein is an apparatus and method for determining indoor collection points and collecting heterogeneous infrastructure measurement information. The apparatus includes a sensor module unit for sensing a motion and a location. An indoor map DB includes attribute information of an indoor space and an indoor map. A collection route generation unit generates a collection route on the indoor map depending on collection conditions. A collection point determination unit determines a collection point from which the heterogeneous infrastructure measurement information is to be collected on the collection route while moving, based on information of the sensor module unit and the indoor map DB. A heterogeneous infrastructure measurement information collection unit collects heterogeneous infrastructure measurement information from the collection point. An information combination unit generates results of collection by combining the collection point with the heterogeneous infrastructure measurement information at the collection point. |
| US09116005B2 |
Electronic systems for locating objects
A database for a set of orientation-matched road (OMR) sections is searched according to a calculated orientation of an object and orientations of road sections stored in the database. The OMR sections are searched for a position-matched road (PMR) set according to a calculated position of the object and positions of the OMR sections. The PMR set includes one or more PMR sections. The object is located using the PMR set. |
| US09116004B2 |
Map scrolling method and apparatus for navigation system for selectively displaying icons
A map scrolling method and apparatus for a navigation system prevents from displaying certain icons while displaying other icons based on conditions and settings of the navigation system during a transition period of a map scrolling operation. The map scrolling method includes the steps of: detecting activation of a map scrolling operation; checking whether there is any limit condition attached to icons as to remove them from a map image; scrolling the map image while removing the icons to which the limit condition is attached from the map image during a transition period of the map scrolling operation; and displaying all of the icons when the map scrolling operation is completed. |
| US09116003B2 |
Routing graphs for buildings
The subject matter disclosed herein relates to systems, methods, etc. for creating a routing graph based at least partly on building information. For certain example implementations, a method includes obtaining building information descriptive of at least a portion of a building structure. A grid of points may be superimposed onto the building information. At least one routing graph may be created based at least in part on the superimposed grid of points and the building information. Other example implementations are also described. |
| US09115999B2 |
Method and system for measuring vehicle speed based on movement of video camera
A digital video camera is placed on a vehicle. The video camera is attached to the vehicle and is directed to a surface at a certain angle to the surface. The camera angle can change while vehicle is in motion. The camera angle is constantly measured by angular sensor (i.e., inclinometer). Images of the surface are projected onto a video matrix and transformed into a sequence of digital frames that are formed at a pre-set time interval. A speed of the video camera relative to the surface is calculated as a ratio of an off-set between the adjacent frames and the time interval between the frames. Then a known relative speed of the vehicle can be corrected by multiplication of the height of the camera (above the surface) by a coefficient that equals a ratio of the known vehicle speed and the measured camera speed. |
| US09115998B2 |
Tracking system and method
A tracking system is provided for tracking objects. A first and a second trackable member each have an inertial sensor unit producing at least orientation-based data. A processing unit receives the orientation-based data from the trackable members. The processing unit has an orientation calculator calculating an orientation of the second trackable member with respect to the first trackable member from the orientation-based data of the trackable members, whereby the processing unit calculates an orientation of the objects. A method for tracking objects is also provided. |
| US09115996B2 |
Threat analysis toolkit
A method and system for managing an aircraft's flight path by identifying and categorizing potential threats in the aircraft's original flight path and determining an alternate flight path. The alternate flight path is selected from potential flight paths and has a threat value lower than any of the potential flight paths. The potential flight path candidates are generated from combinations of the original flight path coordinates, and coordinates that vary from the original coordinates by a set range. |
| US09115995B1 |
Enhanced graphical flight planning for a flight management system
The present invention provides systems, apparatus and means to perform various FMS flight plan edits and definition of navigation reference fixes using interactive graphical representations displayed on an MFD rather than a text-based CDU. In two of the embodiments of the present invention, means are provided where minimal pilot actions, i.e., shortcuts, (which may also include entry/adjustment of a numerical value) are performed on an electronic display that accomplish particular flight plan edits as compared to several pilot actions when using a CDU to perform the same edits. In another embodiment of the present invention, a means is provided where the data entry method is graphical in nature rather than alphanumeric text for inserting an airway into a flight plan. The alphanumeric identifiers are represented as graphical objects which are selectable. In yet another embodiment, the present invention teaches a means for a flight plan modification consisting of the entry or bidirectional adjustment of a parallel offset value directly on an electronic map. In another embodiment, the present invention includes the display of a dialog box showing interactive lists of the available instrument procedures for the selected airport which is displayed on an electronic map. The display lists remain in view after selections are made with the active selection and new selection highlighted differently in the list. In another embodiment of the present invention, a means is provided to allow entry/adjustment of navigation reference fix input data directly on the electronic map. Graphical navigation reference fix symbology is dynamically positioned on the electronic map while the input data value is being adjusted. |
| US09115992B2 |
Laser gyro comprising a device for protecting from corrosion
A laser gyro includes an optical block manufactured from a glass-ceramic first material having apertures, electrodes placed in the apertures of the optical block, and seals ensuring the hermeticity of the optical block in the location of the apertures. The seals use indium of a first redox potential. The laser gyro furthermore includes, making contact with the seal, at least one sacrificial electrode comprising a second material of a second redox potential, the second redox potential being lower than the first redox potential. |
| US09115990B2 |
Geospatial and image data collection system including image sensor for capturing 3D geospatial data and 2D image data and related methods
A geospatial and image data collection system includes a laser source configured to direct laser radiation toward a geospatial area, and an image sensor. The image sensor is configured to be operable in a first sensing mode to sense reflected laser radiation from the geospatial area representative of three dimensional (3D) geospatial data, and a second sensing mode to sense ambient radiation from the geospatial area representative of two dimensional (2D) image data. In addition, a controller is configured to operate the image sensor in the first and second sensing modes to generate the 3D geospatial data and 2D image data registered therewith. |
| US09115989B2 |
System for motion and activity correlation with dose for occupational and environmental dosimetry
Described are a method and apparatus for determining based on motion data when an individual wearing a dosimeter is active. Also described are a method and apparatus for determining based on motion data whether an individual was wearing a dosimeter when the dosimeter was exposed to radiation. Also described are a method and apparatus for determining based on motion data whether a dosimeter was in a particular location when the dosimeter was exposed to radiation. Also described are a method and apparatus for determining based on motion data where on the body of an individual the individual was wearing a dosimeter when the dosimeter was exposed to radiation. Also described are a method and apparatus for determining based on motion data the probability that an individual is wearing a dosimeter that is assigned to the individual. |
| US09115987B2 |
Optical metrology with multiple angles of incidence and/or azimuth angles
An optical metrology device simultaneously detects light with multiple angles of incidence (AOI) and/or multiple azimuth angles to determine at least one parameter of a sample. The metrology device focuses light on the sample using an optical system with a large numerical aperture, e.g., 0.2 to 0.9. Multiple channels having multiple AOIs and/or multiple azimuth angles are selected simultaneously by passing light reflected from the sample through a plurality of pupils in a pupil plate. Beamlets produced by the plurality of pupils are detected, e.g., with one or more spectrophotometers, to produce data for the multiple AOIs and/or multiple azimuth angles. The data for multiple AOI and/or multiple azimuth angles may then be processed to determine at least one parameter of the sample, such as profile parameters or overlay error. |
| US09115986B2 |
Device for optically scanning and measuring an environment
A device for optically scanning and measuring an environment is provided. The device includes a movable scanner having at least one first projector for producing at least one uncoded first pattern on an object in the environment. The scanner includes at least one camera for recording images of the object provided with the pattern and a controller coupled to the first projector and the camera. The device further includes at least one second projector which projects a stationary uncoded second pattern on the object while the scanner is moved. Wherein the controller has a processor configured to determine a set of three-dimensional coordinates of points on a surface of the object from a set of images acquired by the camera based at least in part on the first pattern. The controller is further configured to register the set of images relative based in part on the stationary second pattern. |
| US09115983B2 |
Position measurement apparatus and position measuring method
In a position measurement apparatus and a positioning measuring method, an image capturing element having an imaging region of a dimension smaller than that of a workpiece is moved relatively over a surface of the workpiece while an image on the surface of the workpiece is captured. In addition, a pattern on the surface of the workpiece is extracted from an image (I(t)) inside the imaging region, and a displacement amount of the pattern occurring in the image (I(t+1)) inside the imaging region is detected. A position on the surface of the workpiece is measured based on the detected displacement amount and the dimension. |
| US09115971B2 |
Measuring apparatus
A measuring apparatus includes an optical frequency comb source configured to emit an optical frequency comb in which a plurality of frequency components are arranged at equal frequency intervals, a beam splitter configured to split a beam emitted from the optical frequency comb source into a test beam to be irradiated onto a test surface and a reference beam to be irradiated onto a reference surface, an optical path difference changing element configured to change an optical path difference between the reference beam and the test beam, an image sensor configured to capture an interference pattern formed by interference between the test beam and the reference beam, and an analyzer configured to calculate a position of the test surface based upon a signal of the interference pattern captured while the optical path length difference is being changed by the optical path difference changing element. |
| US09115966B2 |
Airsoft marking round
A spherical pellet marking round for gas propelled guns, such as airsoft electric guns and gas blow back guns, allows a user or military/law enforcement trainees to actually view a mark when they hit their opponent. The marking round is heavier than conventional gas propelled gun rounds, allowing for more reliable breaking on target. The marking round has a hard, brittle shell and is sized for the gun or rifle type. The marking round can include colored marking material, ultraviolet, infrared, forward looking infrared (FLIR) and luminous “glow-in-the-dark” shells for tracer versions. An oversized wedge can be used in production that allows for heavier weighted fill material to be used. |
| US09115959B2 |
Quick release garment
Exemplary embodiments of a quick release garment can be provided. The exemplary garment can include a plurality of co-operable garment panels, which when interconnected, can form a garment in a condition wrapped about an upper torso of a person, a plurality releasable mechanical latches, each latch having a first and a second portion and at least one latch element biased towards an engaged condition, releasably engageable to interconnect the garment panels, and a release arrangement operable in a single operation to release the latches. Further, the latches can be structured so that the single operation allows the garment to fall from the upper torso, and the garment can thereafter be rapidly restorable to the condition wrapped about the upper torso by re-engaging each of the latches by pushing the first and second portions together against the bias to re-engage the latch element(s). |
| US09115955B2 |
Artwork display frame and related methods
Frames for displaying 3D and/or user-selected pieces of artwork and related methods. Some frames comprise frame and rail engagement portions. The frame portions display the artwork and further comprise bodies defining curvilinear cross-sections and display areas on exterior surfaces of the bodies. The rail-engagement portions can couple to the frame portions and further comprise ridges. The ridges extend away from interior surfaces of the frame bodies and can be adapted to engage rails. Flats adjacent to the rails can facilitate securing the frames to the rails. Moreover, display areas of the current embodiment define the artwork. The bodies and rail engagement portions can withstand various shocks at the rails. Moreover, the bodies can be hand guards for weapons. Furthermore, the rail engagement portions can define apertures which receive weapons tools. Moreover, the frame portions can define stops which engage slots associated with the rails. If desired, engravings define the artwork. |
| US09115944B2 |
System and methods for firearm safety enhancement
The present invention relates to system and methods for providing enhanced firearm safety by utilizing an electronic firearm locking device present in the firearm, in communication with a mobile application of a wireless mobile communication device and a remote firearm management server that provides five levels of safety for selective and dynamic enabling and disabling of the firearm based on real time situations along with several value added features. |
| US09115942B2 |
System and method for breaking and cocking a single shot firearm
A system and method for breaking and cocking a single shot firearm by moving a piece of the firearm's trigger guard. |
| US09115941B2 |
Straight pull bolt action system
A straight pull bolt action system for use with a firearm includes a bolt, an action bar, a locking pin and a locking lug. The locking lug front end is pivotally moveable between an up position and a down position, the bolt and action bar are longitudinally moveable between forward and rearward positions. The bolt has a lower locking surface that locks with the locking lug front end when the bolt is in the forward position and the locking lug front end is in the up position. The locking pin has one portion slidably disposed in an opening in the bolt and another portion slidably disposed in an L-shaped opening in the action bar. |
| US09115939B2 |
Micro-channel heat exchanger
The present invention discloses a micro-channel heat exchanger comprising manifolds, a plurality of micro-channel flat tubes connected to the manifolds, and a plurality of rows of fins spaced apart by the micro-channel flat tubes. The micro-channel heat exchanger is provided with at least one bend designed to avoid the deformation of the fins on two inner sides adjacent to the bend due to crushing and meanwhile maintaining the ventilation and heat exchange functionalities of the bend. For example, the bend may include at least one row of fins where the width of the fins are less than the width of the fins on two sides adjacent to the bend. Alternatively, the gap between the fins in the bend can be greater than the gap between the fins on two sides adjacent to the bend. Still alternatively, the bend can be formed with a space for separating cores of the heat exchanger. |
| US09115938B2 |
Two-phase distributor
A heat exchanger is described comprising a distributor having an outer housing and including a plurality of substantially parallel plates disposed within the housing and configured to partition an input two-phase flow into a series of primarily single-phase layers. A heat exchanger is described comprising a distributor having an outer housing including a plurality of substantially parallel channels disposed therein, each channel configured to uniformly and independently convey a portion of a homogenous input two-phase flow from an input of the distributor to an output of the distributor. |
| US09115936B2 |
Cooling apparatus and method using a vacuum pump
A cooling apparatus includes a shell adapted to hermetically store liquid water, a heat exchanging structure adapted to receive a substance to cool down, and a vacuum pump. The heat exchanging structure has one or more heat transfer walls, each of the heat transfer walls having a first surface in contact with the liquid water stored in the shell, and a second surface in contact with the substance to cool down. The vacuum pump is operable to create a partial vacuum on a surface of the liquid water, whereby causing a decrease in a temperature of the liquid water in the shell. In other embodiments, methods of cooling a substance are also described. |
| US09115935B2 |
Single flow circuit heat absorbing/release device for periodic positive and reverse directional pumping
A bidirectional pumping device or two unidirectional pumping devices arranged to pump in opposite directions are connected in series with a conventional cold heat-absorbing or warm heat-dissipating energy discharge device, in order to carry out periodic positive and reverse directional pumping. By changing the flow direction of the fluid passing through the flow circuit, temperature differences and impurity accumulation in the heat absorbing/release device are reduced. |
| US09115931B2 |
Air-conditioning apparatus
In an air-conditioning apparatus, a heat source side heat exchanger, intermediate heat exchangers, and use side heat exchangers are separately formed and adapted to be disposed at separate locations, respectively. There is provided a defrosting operation function to melt frost attached around the heat source side heat exchanger, and a heating function during defrosting operation that drives a pump to circulate a heat medium and supply heating energy to the use side heat exchangers in need of heating to perform heating operation. The defrosting operation function can be executed by switching a four-way valve to cooling side to introduce a high-temperature high-pressure refrigerant flowed out of the compressor into the heat source side heat exchanger. |
| US09115927B2 |
Crisper drawers with rollers and ramp
A crisper drawer for a refrigerator is provided. The crisper drawer includes a crisper pan and a shelf. The crisper pan has a pair of pan rolling surfaces with a ramp portion. The shelf is fixed to the storage compartment, and has a pair of fixed shelf rollers. Each of the pair of the fixed shelf rollers rolls on each of the pan rolling surfaces, and each of the pair of the pan rear rollers rolls on each of the shelf rolling surfaces. As the user pushes the crisper drawer closed, both the shelf rollers and the pan rollers roll on the rolling surfaces. When the shelf rollers reach a ramp portion, the crisper drawer is self-closed without the user's pushing operation. |
| US09115926B2 |
Subassembly for a refrigerating and/or freezing apparatus, refrigerating and/or freezing apparatus and process for assembly of a refrigerating and/or freezing apparatus
The present invention relates to a subassembly for a refrigerating and/or freezing apparatus, wherein the subassembly has at least one air inlet and at least one air outlet, wherein the subassembly is designed in one piece and wherein at least one air guidance device is provided in the subassembly, which is manufactured such that it guides air essentially on a horizontal plane. Moreover, the invention relates to an assembly for a refrigerating and/or freezing apparatus and a process for assembly of a refrigerating and/or freezing apparatus. |
| US09115922B2 |
Fresh ice
A refrigerator includes a refrigerator cabinet, an ice maker disposed within the refrigerator cabinet, an ice storage bucket, a heater thermally coupled to the ice storage bucket to melt ice stored in the ice storage bucket, and a drain positioned to capture water from the ice melted by the heater. |
| US09115921B2 |
Performance evaluation device for variable-speed centrifugal chiller
An object is to sequentially calculate planned COPs. Provided is a performance evaluation device for a variable-speed centrifugal chiller that includes a data acquisition unit that acquires operating data of the variable-speed centrifugal chiller as input data; a storage unit that stores a first arithmetic equation derived on the basis of mechanical characteristics of the chiller and used for calculating a relative load factor that relatively expresses a relationship between a current load factor at a current coolant inlet temperature and a predetermined load factor at a predetermined coolant inlet temperature set as a reference operating point, a second arithmetic equation that expresses a relationship between the relative load factor and a correction coefficient, and a third arithmetic equation used for calculating a planned COP by using the correction coefficient to correct a COP calculation equation derived from a reverse Carnot cycle; and an arithmetic unit that calculates the planned COP under current operating conditions by using the operating data acquired by the data acquisition unit in the first, second, and third arithmetic equations stored in the storage unit. |
| US09115920B2 |
Water filter device and refrigerator having the same
A water filter device including a filter unit to receive water from an external water supply source and to purify the received water, a storage tank unit to store the water purified through the filter unit, and a case to receive the filter unit and the storage tank unit. |
| US09115919B2 |
Thermo-electric heat pump systems
The disclosure is directed to an energy efficient thermal protection assembly. The thermal protection assembly can include three or more thermoelectric unit layers capable of active use of the Peltier effect; and at least one capacitance spacer block suitable for storing heat and providing a delayed thermal reaction time of the assembly. The capacitance spacer block is thermally connected between the thermoelectric unit layers. The present disclosure further relates to a thermoelectric transport and storage devices for transporting or storing temperature sensitive goods, for example, vaccines, chemicals, biologicals, and other temperature sensitive goods. The transport or storage device can be configured and provide on-board energy storage for sustaining, for multiple days, at a constant-temperature, with an acceptable temperature variation band. |
| US09115914B2 |
Collector and collector arrangement for generating heat from incident radiation
The invention relates to a collector and a collector arrangement for generating heat, especially from incident radiation. In principle, such collectors and collector arrangements are know in prior art. An individual collector known in prior art typically comprises of a reflector device (110) for reflecting the incident radiation onto one focusing zone (120-1) of the reflector device (110). A typical collector further comprises an absorber device that is disposed in the focusing zone. In order to provide the reflector device with great inherent stability, particularly against wind and torsion, the inventive reflector device is embodied with a plurality of facet elements (110-I-i, 110-II-n) which are placed at an angle from each other such that the reflector device (110) has a zigzag shaped file (116). |
| US09115906B2 |
Air blowing device
There is provided an air blowing device that is easy to carry and is convenient, the air blowing device that has little adverse effect on the blowing function and is configured to be able to disperse electrically-charged particles while ensuring safety.A fan 4 coupled to an output shaft 33a of a motor 33 is rotated by the motor 33 to send air. The motor 33 is housed in a motor housing portion 3, and a fan cover rear separate body 72 in the shape of a flange, the fan cover rear separate body 72 covering an outer edge portion of the fan 4 and a lateral part of the fan 4 on the side where the motor 33 is located, is fixed to an end of the motor housing portion 3 on the side where the output shaft 33a is located. A handle portion 2 is provided in a standing manner in an intermediate portion of the output shaft 33a in a direction of an axis thereof on an outer surface of the motor housing portion 3, and the fan cover rear separate body 72 has a tapered portion T which faces the handle portion 2 and whose outer peripheral side is inclined toward the fan 4. A passage 25 that allows air to pass therethrough is provided in an intermediate portion of the handle portion 2, and an ion generator 9 that generates positive and negative ions to be released into the passage 25 is provided in the handle portion 2 in a base end portion thereof. |
| US09115903B2 |
Oven door
An oven door is provided. The oven door includes a door panel having an air discharging opening part configured to discharge air flowing in the oven door, a door frame coupled to the door panel, the coupled door panel and door frame providing at least one air introducing hole in the bottom of the door to introduce air into the door, an inner cover located between the door panel and the door frame, the inner cover having an inner opening, the inner cover and the door frame defining a space to allow airflow, an inner glass located in the inner opening of the inner cover, and a glass holder supporting the inner glass. Air introduced through the air introducing hole flows through the space between the door frame and the inner cover at both lateral sides of the glass holder. |
| US09115900B2 |
Systems and methods for heating water using biofuel
The present invention may be embodied as a biofuel heating system for converting biofuel to heat energy to be delivered to a load comprising a combustion chamber defining a combustion zone, an under-fire zone, and an over-fire zone. A controller operates at least one of a fan, an under-fire damper, and an over-fire damper based on at least one operating parameter such that air flows along a flow path extending from at least one of an under-fire port and an over-fire port, through the combustion chamber, through a burn-out port, through a burn-out chamber, through a heat exchange port, through a heat exchange chamber, and out of an exhaust port. The heat exchange system transfers heat energy from air flowing through the heat exchange chamber to the working fluid. |
| US09115898B2 |
Fuel injector mounting system
A system for mounting a fuel injector to an engine casing with an aperture includes a fuel injector having a flange for mounting to the casing at the aperture. The flange allows it to pass through the aperture. An intermediate ring mediates the mounting of the flange to the casing at the aperture. The intermediate ring is inside the casing at the aperture and defines an opening from which the fuel injector extends into the engine with the flange positioned inward of the ring. The flange is dismountably sealed to an inner side of the ring, and the ring is dismountably sealed to an inner side of the casing to mount the fuel injector to the casing. On dismounting the flange from the ring, the fuel injector can be displaced to allow the ring, to be moved away from the aperture. The fuel injector can then be withdrawn. |
| US09115896B2 |
Fuel-air mixer for use with a combustor assembly
A fuel-air mixer for use with a combustor is provided. The fuel-air mixer includes an outer ring, an intermediate hub disposed coaxially within the outer ring such that a first plenum is formed therebetween, and an inner hub disposed coaxially within the intermediate hub such that a second plenum is formed therebetween. A first swirler including a plurality of first swirler vanes is positioned between the outer ring and the intermediate hub, wherein the first swirler is configured to rotate fluid flowing therethrough in a first direction. A second swirler including a plurality of second swirler vanes is positioned between the intermediate hub and the inner hub, wherein the second swirler is configured to rotate fluid flowing therethrough in a second direction. A plurality of fuel injection conduits are also defined within the fuel-air mixer for channeling fuel to the first and second plenums. |
| US09115895B2 |
Flue gas desulfurization
A flue gas desulfurization according to the present invention includes a desulfurization absorber that removes SOx and dust contained in flue gas, spray pipes that are provided in the desulfurization absorber, an absorbent feeding means that feeds an absorbing-agent-slurry containing absorbent, in which limestone is used as an absorbing agent, into the desulfurization absorber, nozzles that are provided in the spray pipe to spray the absorbent into the desulfurization absorber, an alkaline-agent feeding means that feeds an alkaline-agent containing solution into the desulfurization absorber, and an waste-water discharge pipe for discharging filtrate obtained by solid-liquid separating the absorbent discharged from the desulfurization absorber as waste water. A feed amount of the alkaline-agent containing solution into the desulfurization absorber is adjusted based on a discharge amount of the waste water. |
| US09115892B2 |
Gas burner
Gas burner, preferably for domestic use, of the type comprising at least one fuel gas injector and at least one corresponding Venturi effect mixer, wherein the above-mentioned injector faces the intake section of said Venturi effect mixer, and one or more passages for the transit of primary air from above the supporting surface, to which the burner is fixed, to the intake section of the Venturi effect mixer. The burner is also provided with means for preventing flame propagation, of the fluid flow splitting type, which comprises at least one substantially tubular body, with relative lateral walls extending at least between the injector and the intake section of the Venturi effect mixer, advantageously consisting of at least one helically wound filiform element. |
| US09115891B2 |
Rich-lean combustion burner
A row of rich-side flame holes is centrally arranged. Two rows of lean-side flame holes are arranged on both sides of the rich-side flame hole row, respectively. In addition, two rows of rich-side flame holes are arranged on the outsides of the two lean-side flame hole rows, respectively. A lower end part of a central rich-side burner part is projected into a tubular part into which the rich-side mixture is introduced, and communication holes in fluid communication with an inner space are formed in walls on both sides so as to pass completely therethrough in alignment with each other. Each communication hole has a larger diameter than an inner width P and is disposed at a potion situated nearer to the upper of the tubular part and nearer to the front so as to leave, at the rear, a space in which dust p particles are accumulated. |
| US09115884B2 |
Heat isolating torch
A device having a flame bowl surrounded by a first, inner shroud. The device includes a shell having a second, outer shroud on an upper portion thereof, the outer shroud circumscribing at least a portion of the first shroud, and a support supporting the flame bowl and the first shroud in a fixed relationship with respect to the outer shroud. |
| US09115880B2 |
Lighting system reconfigurable by gestural control
A luminaire, such as a ceiling suspended luminaire, that can change its shape or some other state or characteristic based on user-input. The changes of shape or other state or characteristic can be achieved by hand gestures, such as moving the hand up and down in the detection field of a sensor. In one aspect of the invention, a suspended luminaire having a flexible sheet form is provided. The shape or attitude of the sheet form luminaire can be changed by exerting a force on one or more attachment points on the luminaire. |
| US09115878B2 |
Spotlight with clamp
The present disclosure provides a spotlight having a clamp that can be affixed to objects. Advantageously, the spotlight can be used portably, or affixed to an object for hands-free use. The head of the spotlight can pivot, and also rotate fully, to provide a variety of lighting angles. The body of the spotlight can include a battery compartment that is sealed to satisfy applicable waterproofing standards. |
| US09115875B2 |
LED light lamps using stack effect for improving heat dissipation
A light-emitting lamp has a bulb shell, a convective accelerator, a light-emitting filament and a bulb base. The bulb shell defines an interior volume filled with a filling gas, and comprises a first transparent material. The convective accelerator is disposed within the interior volume, and comprises a second transparent material. The convective accelerator contains a flue with first and second openings. The light-emitting filament is disposed within the flue, comprising a plurality of semiconductor light-emitting elements. When the light-emitting filament emits light to generate heat, the flue allows a convection flow of the filling gas to pass into one of the first and second openings. The bulb base supports the bulb shell and the light-emitting filament, and has electrical conductors in electrical communication with the light-emitting filament. The first and the second openings have different distances apart from the bulb base. |
| US09115873B2 |
Lighting device
Provided is a lighting device that can suppress decrease in its luminous efficiency and shortening of its life. A lighting device (1) includes a fluorescent member (4) which is irradiated with laser light emitted by a semiconductor laser (2) and emits fluorescent light, a rotation mechanism (6) which rotates the fluorescent member, and a reflecting member (7) which reflects the fluorescent light emitted by the fluorescent member toward the outside. |
| US09115872B2 |
LED illumination device
A lighting device includes a base, a light source, an optical color wheel, and a lens. The base has a plurality of fins for heat dissipation. The light source is disposed in the base, and the optical color wheel is disposed above the light source and in contact with the base. The lens is movably disposed on the base. The Light from the light source passes through the optical color wheel to form colored light. The colored light passes through the lens to form a light beam. Heat generated by the light source and the optical color wheel is dissipated by the fins. |
| US09115871B2 |
Backlight assembly and display apparatus having the same
A backlight assembly includes first LED packages, second LED packages, a light guide plate, a printed circuit board, and a light blocking member. Each of the first LED packages emits light of a first color. Each of the second LED packages emits light of a second color different from the first color. The first and the second LED packages are provided in the same number and alternately arranged with each other. The light guide plate receives an incident light from the first and the second LED packages to output an emission light, and the first and second LED packages are mounted on the printed circuit board. In addition, the light blocking member blocks the light generated from one of the first LED packages, which is located at an outermost portion of the printed circuit board, and travelling to the light guide plate. |
| US09115869B2 |
Wavelength converting element
A wavelength converting element (110) comprising a polymeric material having a polymeric backbone, the polymeric material comprising a wavelength converting moiety, wherein the wavelength converting moiety is adapted to convert light of a first wavelength to light of a second wavelength, and wherein the wavelength converting moiety is covalently attached to the polymer backbone and/or covalently incorporated into the polymer backbone. The stability and lifetime of wavelength converting molecules comprised in a polymeric material may be improved by covalently attaching the wavelength converting moieties to the polymeric material. |
| US09115868B2 |
Wavelength conversion component with improved protective characteristics for remote wavelength conversion
A wavelength conversion component for remote wavelength conversion is described in which a wavelength conversion layer is sandwiched between two light transmissive hermetic substrates. The light transmissive hermetic substrates form a barrier that protects the wavelength conversion layer from exposure to external environmental conditions. In some approaches, the wavelength conversion component further includes a sealant material disposed around an outer edge of the sandwich structure, where the sealant material hermetically seals an outer edge wavelength conversion layer. |
| US09115864B2 |
Optical interference filters, and filament tubes and lamps provided therewith
A multilayer coating systems suitable for use as optical interference filters in lighting systems, for example, halogen lamps. Such an optical interference filter contains alternating layers of a high refractive index material and a low refractive index material. The high refractive index material consists of niobia, titania, and incidental impurities and contains either about 25 to less than 50 mol % titania and the balance niobia and incidental impurities, or contains about 60 to about 80 mol % titania and the balance niobia and incidental impurities. |
| US09115863B2 |
Optical compound sheet for backlight module
An optical compound sheet for a backlight module includes a base layer formed of a transparent material, a plurality of structured patterns formed on the base layer at a predetermined interval, a light-condensing layer which includes a surface coating including nano-particles distributed on the surface of the structured patterns at the thickness of 0.01 μm to 1 μm, and an anti-scratching layer which is coated under the base layer at the thickness of 0.1 μm to 3 μm by using the UV-curable bond containing nano-particles. While improving the anti-scratching performance by using the surface coating and the anti-scratching layer containing the nano-particles, the wet-out and Moire phenomena are greatly reduced by the finely separate coating of the nano-particles, thereby achieving both the light-condensing function and light-diffusing function. |
| US09115861B2 |
Module assembly for arrangement in a headlamp
A module assembly (1) for arrangement in a headlamp of a vehicle with a carrier frame (10) on which at least one light module (11) is supported. The light module (11) comprises at least one heat sink (12) on which at least one semiconductor light source (13) is supported for the emission of light (14). Two mounting journals (16) extending in a common axis (15) are arranged on the heat sink (12), so that the light module (11) can pivot about the axis (15) on the carrier frame (10). The light module (11) has a clamping unit (17) with which the light module (11) can be clamped in its pivot position about the axis (15) on the carrier frame (10). |
| US09115856B1 |
Solar-powered relocatable lighting system
A solar-powered relocatable lighting system includes a light module including a support frame having a light-emitting diode module, rechargeable batteries, and photovoltaic panels, a removable shade assembly configured to cover the light module, and a plurality of support arms configured to removably connect to the support frame of the light module. The plurality of support arms provides multiple configurations for use and charging the solar-powered relocatable lighting system. |
| US09115854B2 |
Light emitting diode bulb
A light emitting diode bulb is described, which includes a lamp housing, a light source module, a lampshade and a lamp cap. The lamp housing includes a first adjusting member and a second adjusting member. The first adjusting member includes a first engaging structure, a first acting surface and a second acting surface. The first acting surface and the second acting surface are located on the first engaging structure. The second adjusting member can be moved in relation to the first adjusting member. The second adjusting member includes a second engaging structure corresponding to the first engaging structure, and the second engaging structure has an upper opposing surface and a lower opposing surface. The light source module is disposed on the second adjusting member and can be moved as the second adjusting member is moved. The lampshade and the lamp cap are disposed on the lamp housing respectively. |
| US09115850B2 |
Priority valve assembly and method for operating a priority valve assembly
A priority valve assembly includes a fluid supply line, a first fluid discharge line, and a second fluid discharge line, both of which are to be supplied with fluid via the fluid supply line. A priority valve throttles a fluid flow from the fluid supply line into the second fluid discharge line to prioritize the supply of fluid to the first fluid discharge line over the supply of fluid to the second fluid discharge line if a control parameter which is characteristic for an inlet fluid pressure (pE) in the fluid supply line falls below a first predetermined threshold value (p2). The priority valve reduces the throttling of the fluid flow from the fluid supply line into the second fluid discharge line if the control parameter falls below a second predetermined threshold value (p4) which is smaller than the first predetermined threshold value (p2). |
| US09115843B2 |
Holder
A holder including a fixed base, a rotational base, a first arm and a second arm is provided. The rotational base is rotatably disposed on the fixed base and has a supporting plane and two openings. The first arm and the second arm are disposed in the rotational base, and pass through the two openings, respectively, wherein the first arm is coupled with the fixed base. When a hand-held electronic device is located between the first arm and the second arm and is rotated along with the rotational base relative to the fixed base, the fixed base drives the first arm to move relative to the rotational base so as to hold the hand-held electronic device by the first arm and the second arm. |
| US09115840B2 |
Snap on vibration damper
A vibration damper for a conduit line. The damper includes a flexible body defining a bore and a slot adjacent to the bore. The body is flexible between a first configuration in which the slot has a first width that is insufficient to permit the conduit line to pass therethrough, and a second configuration in which the slot has a second width that is sufficient to permit the conduit line to pass therethrough, the second width is greater than the first width. The flexible body further includes a plurality of tuning splines. The tuning splines include a length and a width configured to reduce vibration of the conduit line when the damper is connected to the conduit line such that the conduit line extends through the bore. |
| US09115839B1 |
Cylindrical foam tube strengthening and interconnecting system
A cylindrical foam tube strengthening and interconnecting system having at least one housing with an exterior wall and an interior wall and at least one edge. Extending a predetermined distance from the at least one edge, the interior wall has at least one channel that terminates at a hole. At least one connector is fixed to the at least one housing and to a noodle to build a structure. The noodle is a cylindrical hollow piece of polyethylene foam used while swimming, learning to swim, for floating, for rescue reaching, in various forms of water play, for aquatic exercise. |
| US09115832B2 |
Assembly for fastening, with fluid connection, a mold bottom to a holder
Disclosed is an assembly (10) for fastening, with fluid connection, a mold bottom to a holder (12), in which the mold bottom, of principal axis (O), is able to be removably fastened to a plate (14) forming an interface between the mold bottom and the holder (12), the assembly (10) including at least one locking device and a fluid connection device, respectively placed between the plate (14) and the holder (12), characterized in that the movement of a first locking element (44) and a first connecting element (46) is coupled via a moveable part (88) so that together they form a moveable element. |
| US09115831B2 |
Multilayer reinforced hose
A multilayer hose comprising in order, (i) a thermoplastic inner liner, (ii) at least one first fibrous reinforcement layer comprising continuous filament yarns having a yarn tenacity of at least 13 grams per dtex, (iii) at least one second fibrous reinforcement layer comprising continuous filament yarns having a yarn tenacity of at least 13 grams per dtex, and (iv) a thermoplastic outer cover wherein the continuous filament yarns of the at least one second fibrous reinforcement layer have a yarn modulus greater than the yarn modulus of the continuous filament yarns of the at least one first fibrous reinforcement. |
| US09115829B1 |
Retainer device
A retainer for retaining an elongate flexible element on a support and comprising a perimeter wall defining an interior, with the perimeter wall having opposite ends each having end edges defining end openings. A capture slot extends between the opposite ends of the perimeter wall. The capture slot is defined by a pair of slot edges on the perimeter wall, and the slot edges extend from a first one of the end edges to a second one of the end edges. The capture slot extends along a convoluted path between the opposite ends that requires forming at least one bend in the flexible element to move the element through the capture slot and into the interior of the perimeter wall. |
| US09115824B2 |
Fluid control valve for high pressure surges
A fluid control valve for high pressure surges, that has a controlled pressure drop box inside, arranged on a block seat and through whose core a cylindrical plug can be moved. The box is formed by a number of disks grooved on both sides, fluid flows through the grooves. The grooves are arranged in a spiral, curved clockwise or counterclockwise and crossways to the grooves of the adjacent disks, forming a number of chambers at the intersections between the contact faces of two side-by-side disks. A dynamic mixture of the incoming fluid veins through each groove is produced in each of the chambers, with the ensuing creation of local turbulence and loss in kinetic energy as heat prior to evacuation through the protruding course of the outlet grooves. The successive chambers in the course of the grooves are arranged in tiered annular spaces of gradual and controlled pressure loss. |
| US09115817B2 |
Rotation joint and multiple air channel workstation using the same
A rotation joint includes a base and a rotation member sleeved on the base. An end of the base defines at least one first air guiding hole and a first air outlet. An outer sidewall of the base defines an air guiding groove. The air guiding groove extends around an axis of the base. A bottom wall of the air guiding groove defines a second air guiding hole communicating with the first air guiding hole. The outer sidewall of the base further defines a second air outlet. The first air outlet communicates with the second air outlet. Sidewalls of the rotation member define connecting holes. One of the connecting holes communicates with the second air outlet, while the other connecting holes communicate with the air guiding groove. The present disclosure further provides a multiple air channel workstation using the rotation joint. |
| US09115816B2 |
Check valve with modulation and/or anti-oscillation feature
A check valve includes a modulation and/or anti-oscillation feature which, in one aspect, modulates the position of the check valve ball relative to the valve seat to maintain the ball in a continuous flow position allowing pressurized fluid flow past the ball while preventing contact between the ball and the valve seat. In another aspect, an increased mass is selectively coupled to or forms a part of the movable valve member to dampen oscillations of the movable valve member in an open fluid flow position without contact with the valve seat. |
| US09115815B2 |
Variable-volume injection valve
Variable-volume injection valves include a stator and a rotor. The stator has a first port, a second port, and a contact surface with a groove therein. The first port opens into the stator groove. The rotor has a contact surface with a groove therein. The contact surface of the rotor is urged against the contact surface of the stator such that the rotor groove opposes the stator groove with one end of the rotor groove overlapping the stator groove and the opposite end of the rotor groove overlapping the second port of the stator. The overlapping grooves of the rotor and stator provide a fluidic channel between the first and second ports of the stator. The rotor is movable with respect to the stator in order to vary a length of overlap between their overlapping grooves. |
| US09115811B2 |
Flow control device
A flow control device is provided with a first body having a first port through which pressure fluid is supplied, and a second body which is installed on the first body. A valve mechanism which controls the circulation state of the pressure fluid that circulates from the first port to a second port is provided inside this first body. Furthermore, a first connecting section of the first body is inserted into and engaged with the inside of a second connecting section formed at the upper end of the second body, resulting in the first body and the second body being integrally connected together. |
| US09115809B2 |
Pin joint assembly
A pin joint assembly including a pin defining a longitudinal axis and having an end portion, a bushing coaxial with the pin about the longitudinal axis and having an end portion, and a collar engaging the end portion of the pin and having an inner portion in proximal relation to the end portion of the bushing and an outer portion in distal relation to the end portion of the bushing. The end portion of the bushing, the inner portion of the collar, and the pin cooperate to define a channel. The pin joint assembly further includes a thrust ring coaxial with the pin about the longitudinal axis and residing in the channel in spaced-apart relation to the bushing. |
| US09115808B2 |
Transition piece seal assembly for a turbomachine
A transition piece seal assembly includes a first seal, and a second seal joined to the first seal. The second seal being spaced from the first seal to define a coolant passage. |
| US09115807B2 |
Piston for an air pump
A piston for an air pump has a connecting rod and a sealing valve. The connecting rod has a seat. The seat has a groove and a retaining surface. The groove is defined in an outer surface of the seat. The retaining surface is adjacent to the groove. The sealing valve movably engages the seat of the connecting rod and has an engaging ring and a sealing part. The engaging ring has an inwall which extends into the groove and has an engaging surface facing the retaining surface. The sealing part is connected with the inwall of the engaging ring and sealingly covers the through hole. The sealing valve is not prone to deformation and warpage during the operation of the piston to prevent any operating noise problem. |
| US09115803B2 |
Methods and systems for operating a transmission
Systems and methods for operating and interfacing to a transmission of a vehicle are presented. In one example, a human machine interface allows a driver to assign gear ratios or simulated gear ratios to gear position slots of a shifter. The assignment of gear ratios to gear position slots of a shifter may allow a driver to experience the feeling of driving a manually shifted transmission without having to operate a clutch. |
| US09115802B2 |
Sprocket for easy cleaning
A drive sprocket for driving a modular belt having a plurality of belt modules with intercalated link ends connected by transverse pivot members to form hinges. The belt modules may have transverse ribs. The drive sprocket is driven by a shaft. The drive sprocket has a central opening for receiving the shaft. The body has a plurality of teeth disposed in pairs along a periphery of the body. The body has a first opening formed between adjacent pairs of teeth and extending toward the center of the sprocket to provide access to the hinge area, when the belt engages with the sprocket, for application of cleaning fluid. |
| US09115801B2 |
Shift manipulation state recognizing method for shift manipulation apparatus
A stable operation performance of a shift operation apparatus is ensured by allowing the shift lever to be stably recognized using a specific shift stage even in the case where the shift lever has stopped ambiguously between the two neighboring shift stages, and to exactly recognize by judging more exactly which one of the other shift stages, such as + stage and N stage, has been selected even in the case where sensor errors of a sensor for sensing whether the M stage or a manual mode has been selected occur. |
| US09115800B2 |
Planetary carrier
A planetary carrier includes a side plate having a front face and a shaft journal which is arranged on the front face of the side plate. A bearing seating is formed on an outer circumferential surface of the shaft journal on a front-face-proximal end of the shaft journal. The planetary carrier has an annular groove directly adjacent to the bearing seating in coaxial relationship to the shaft journal and undercutting the front face and the outer circumferential surface. |
| US09115798B2 |
Drive device for the road wheels of a vehicle
A drive device for the road wheels of a vehicle, with a stationary housing partially filled with a lubricating liquid, and a rotatably drivable driveshaft inserted into the housing interior and with a differential unit having a crown wheel with a differential housing. The crown wheel is rotatably drivable by the driving gear wheel, by means of which crown wheel a plurality of differential gear wheels of the differential unit are rotatably drivable, driven gear wheels being rotatably drivable in turn by these differential gear wheels. The driven gear wheels being drivingly connected in each instance to driven shafts for driving the road wheels of the vehicle. The differential unit is enclosed in the housing interior by a shielding housing, wherein the stationary housing interior is connected to the shielding housing interior via one or more apertures. |
| US09115796B1 |
Differential device
In a differential device, first and second bearing bosses aligned on a same axis to be rotatably supported by a transmission case are integrally formed on one and another side portions of an integrated differential case housing a differential gear mechanism. Paired sleeves rotatably supported by the bosses are connected liquidtightly to paired left and right side gears of the mechanism. A tube portion is integrally protruded from an outer end of a hub of each gear. The sleeve is screwed and fastened onto an outer periphery of the tube portion. In the gear and sleeve, first and second sealing surfaces are formed respectively to closely adhere to each other by such screwing and fastening, thereby shutting off communication between an inside of the differential case and a screwed portion between the tube portion and sleeve. |
| US09115795B2 |
Suspended mounting of a differential
A planetary gear (1) such as a differential gear, with a planetary carrier (3) on which planetary wheels (5, 6) are rotatively connected, with at least one sun gear (9, 10, 11) in meshing engagement, whereby the planetary carrier (3) can be connected to a drive wheel (15) such as a spur wheel (16), whereby further comprising a rolling bearing (20) having an inner bearing ring (29) and an outer bearing ring (28) for the axial and/or radial positioning of the planetary carrier (3) with respect to a fixed housing such as a gear housing, characterized in that an outer bearing ring (28) between the inner bearing ring (29) and the planetary support (3) is forced as far as a seating region radially inwards of the planetary carrier (3) for connection to the planetary carrier (3). |
| US09115793B2 |
Controllable mechanical transmission for downhole applications
A transmission for rotatably coupling an input shaft with an output shaft about a longitudinal axis is disclosed, which may include a continuous variable transmission and an output torque sensing control mechanism. The continuous variable transmission may be a toroidal disc continuous variable transmission. The output torque sensing control mechanism may include a spring and an intermediary output shaft rotatably connected with an output rotating member of the continuous variable transmission, and the output shaft may be externally threaded and matable with an internally threaded portion of the intermediary output shaft. |
| US09115790B2 |
Electric cart with gear motor
The electric cart has a main body, wheels at the bottom of the main body and a gear motor to electrically drive the wheels. The gear motor includes a motor having a motor shaft, an output shaft connected to at least one of the wheels, and a gear reduction unit connecting the motor shaft to the output shaft. The gear reduction unit has a helical gear train. |
| US09115789B2 |
Double clutch transmission
A transmission having two clutches connected between a drive and respective transmission input shafts, one being hollow which supports the other within. A hollow countershaft which supports another countershaft therein. A main shaft arranged coaxially between the inner input shaft and an output shaft. Shifting elements can engage a variety of transmission connections in which transmission elements of the main group couple transmission elements of the range group which can couple the output shaft. The hollow countershaft has three fixed wheels which engage respective loose wheels, and the countershafts are rigidly coupled by a shifting element. With respect to this shifting element: an adjacent loose wheel rotates on and can rigidly couple the main shaft; a remote loose wheel rotates on and can rigidly couple the inner input shaft; and a central loose wheel rotates on and can rigidly couple at least one of the inner input and main shafts. |
| US09115781B2 |
Device for springing a mass, and method for adjusting and/or operating a fluid spring
A device for springing a mass including a fluid spring and a frame, in which the fluid spring is arranged between the mass and the frame in such a way that the mass is mounted on the frame in a sprung and/or damped manner. An add-on-fluid volume device for providing an additional fluid volume for the fluid spring includes at least two fluid volume chambers that can be fluidically connected to one another and which have a common, displaceable chamber wall. |
| US09115778B2 |
Holder for a spring
A holder (5) for a spring (2) which has a spring fastening area (10) for fastening the spring (2) to the holder (5) and a wheel carrier fastening area (9) for fastening a wheel carrier (4) to the spring. The holder (5) further has a deformable zone (23) for transmitting force from the spring fastening area (10) to the wheel carrier fastening area (9). |
| US09115777B2 |
Self-retracting extension limiting device
A self-retracting extension limiting device. It is designed to be attached between a first object and a second object, where the distance between the first and second objects is variable. The device exerts a restoring force tending to draw the two objects together. A first, relatively weak restoring force is exerted over a range of distance. Then, when the objects have been separated to a defined limit of travel, the device exerts a much greater restoring force. The invention includes overlapping and self-contained elements so that unwanted slack is minimized. |
| US09115776B2 |
Flexing arrangement
The present invention is concerned with a flexing arrangement with a wide range of applications. The arrangement has at least one leaf spring structure having a plurality of reusable leaf springs connected together. At least one of the leaf springs is made of essentially of an alloy of nickel and titanium, and the alloy has a nickel content of substantially 50.1-55 at % and a titanium content of substantially 45-49.9 at %. |
| US09115769B2 |
Torque converter
A torque converter of the present invention includes a pump impeller, a turbine impeller, a first stator impeller, a second stator impeller, a first one-way clutch annularly provided on the inner periphery of the first stator impeller, and a second one-way clutch annularly provided from the inner periphery of the first one-way clutch to the inner periphery of the second stator impeller. The first stator impeller is coupled to a fixed shaft via the first and second one-way clutches, and the second stator impeller is coupled to the fixed shaft only via the second one-way clutch. |
| US09115768B2 |
Switchable bi-directional wedge clutch
A switchable clutch, including: a first outer race; a second outer race; an inner race; at least one wedge block at least partially radially located between the inner race and the first and second outer races; and a single actuator rod displaceable to position the at least one wedge block. In a first position for the actuation rod and the at least one wedge block, the first outer race and the inner race are non-rotatably connected. In a second position for the actuation rod and the at least one wedge block, the second outer race and the inner race are non-rotatably connected. In a third position for the actuation rod and the at least one wedge block, the inner race is rotatable with respect to the first and second outer races. |
| US09115767B2 |
Clutch cover assembly
A clutch cover assembly is equipped with a clutch cover that is fixed to a flywheel, a pressure plate, a diaphragm spring, an wear-amount detecting mechanism, and a wear tracking mechanism. The wear-amount detecting mechanism has a contact member, an opposing member, and a wedge member. The contact member is attached to the pressure plate and is in contact with the flywheel. The opposing member is attached to the contact member and opposes the pressure plate. The wedge member fits between the opposing member and the pressure plate and moves in a circumferential direction in accordance with the wear-amount of a friction member. The wear tracking mechanism moves the pressing member to an initial posture side in accordance with the amount of movement of the wedge member. |
| US09115765B2 |
Torque transmission device for a motor vehicle
A torque transmission device for a motor vehicle, having a torque input element (7), a torque output element (24), and at least two elastic members (10a, 10b) mounted between the torque input and output elements (7, 24) and counteracting rotation of input and output elements with respect to one another. The elastic members (10a, 10b) are arranged serially by means of a phasing member (30) so that the elastic members (10a, 10b) deform in phase with one another. The stiffness K1 of the elastic member (10a) mounted between the torque input element (7) and the phasing member (30) is less than the stiffness K2 of the elastic member (10b) mounted between the phasing member (30) and the torque output element (34), the ratio K2/K1 being equal to at least 2. |
| US09115764B2 |
Double-roller-type tripod constant-velocity joint
One end face of an outer roller is provided with an annular rib that protrudes radially inward and that retains an inner roller and rolling elements. The other end face-side portion of the outer roller is provided with an inner component retaining portion that retains the inner roller and the rolling elements. In a roller unit in which the inner roller and the rolling elements are retained in the outer roller by the rib and the inner component retaining portion, an inner peripheral face of the inner roller through which a tripod shaft portion is passed is provided with a tripod shaft portion insertion restricting portion that allows the tripod shaft portion to be passed through the inner roller only from an end face side of the roller unit, on which the rib of the outer roller is not provided. |
| US09115761B2 |
Ball bearing assembly notification mechanism
A ball bearing assembly can include an outer race that includes an inner surface; an inner race that comprises an outer surface that includes an imperfection and a shoulder disposed at a shoulder angle where the imperfection is disposed at an angle in a range from about 50% of the shoulder angle to about 100% of the shoulder angle; and balls disposed between the inner surface of the outer race and the outer surface of the inner race. Various other examples of devices, assemblies, systems, methods, etc., are also disclosed. |
| US09115759B2 |
Roller bearing
A tapered roller bearing (1a, 1b) satisfies the following three conditions: (a1) 0.8≦Hi/Dw≦1.2, (b1) 1.01≦dm/dh≦1.05, and (c1) 2.1≦L/Dw≦3.0, where a pitch circle diameter at a center of a roller length along an axis line (X) of each tapered roller (4) is (dm), the radial dimension of the inner ring (2) at an intersection of the inner ring raceway (2a) and a perpendicular line (v) extending from a position of the pitch circle diameter in a direction perpendicular to the axis line is the thickness (Hi) of the inner ring, a cross-sectional center diameter of the roller bearing is (dh), the length of the tapered roller (4) is the length (L) of the tapered roller, and a half of the sum of the large diameter dimension and the small diameter dimension of the tapered roller (4) is the diameter (Dw) of the tapered roller. |
| US09115757B2 |
Bearing for a shaft of a printing technology machine
A bearing for a shaft of a printing technology machine includes a bearing housing composed of an upper part and a lower part. The bearing housing has a bore for receiving a rolling-contact bearing for the shaft. The upper part and the lower part are separated by an interstice disposed in the region of the bore. The rolling-contact bearing is an axial bearing including at least one rolling body cage and at least one race washer having an annular shape. The race washer is clamped between the upper part and the lower part, which both exert a radial pressure on an outer circumferential surface of the race washer. |
| US09115755B2 |
Current insulated bearing components and bearings
Disclosed is a bearing component having at least one layer having a high hardness and a high current insulation property, the layer comprising a nonconductive oxide layer selected from the group comprising an Al2O3 layer, a TaO layer, an SiO2 layer, a mixed layer comprising two or more of the foregoing oxides, a multilayer structure comprising alternating layers of two or more of the foregoing oxides and a DLC layer such as a ta-C layer, there being at least one ALD layer comprising at least one layer of a material deposited by an ALD (atomic layer deposition) process on the at least one layer having a high hardness and a high current insulation property, the ALD layer itself having a high current insulation property and comprising a material or layer structure selected from the said group of materials. |
| US09115754B2 |
Support plate for bearings
A support device and method for fixing a bearing on a bearing shield of a housing of an electric machine. Rotatably mounted in the support device is a rotor with a shaft. The support device is substantially flat and comprises a plurality of fastening openings that are grouped about a central opening. The support device comprises at least one design break point that acts to provide a local limit to the excess stress in the material of the support device. |
| US09115752B2 |
Bearing assembly
A bearing assembly includes a tubular outer housing and a tubular inner mandrel. The outer housing has an exterior surface and an interior surface defining an interior bore. The inner mandrel has an exterior surface and an interior surface defining an interior mud flow channel. The inner mandrel is journaled for rotation within the interior bore of the outer housing. Pairs of diamond bearings having opposed curved bearing surfaces are disposed between the outer housing and the inner mandrel. One of each pair of opposed curved bearing surfaces being convex and being secured to one of the inner mandrel or outer housing and another of each pair of opposed curved bearing surfaces being concave and secured to another of the inner mandrel or outer housing. The opposed curved bearing surfaces accommodate limited relative misalignment and provide radial and axial support between the inner mandrel and the outer housing. |
| US09115746B2 |
Screw and thin metal sheet connection produced therewith
A screw (10) and a connection produced therewith of a thin metal sheet forming a substructure (40) to a plastics component (30) having a through-bore (32) and having a seal (50) located between the substructure (40) and the component (30). The screw (10) has a shank (13) having a thread-cutting thread (16) and a tip (12) in the form of a boring part, and also a lower thread section (18) having a first thread outside diameter (D18) and an upper thread section (19) having a second, larger thread outside diameter (D19) and having a conically narrowing transition section (22) between the two thread sections (18, 19). The upper thread section (19) has a thread pitch (P2) which is smaller than the thread pitch (P1) of the lower thread section (18). During the production of the connection, the upper thread is screwed into the through-bore (32), wherein a form-fit is produced in the component (30) between the latter and the screw (10) and the material of the component (30) rests in a sealing manner around the upper thread section (19). This produces a combination of a seal without a sealing washer and with a defined distance between the component and the substructure by defined compression of the seal (50). |
| US09115745B2 |
Securing nut
In order to improve a securing nut comprising a base member which is provided around its circumference with a key face contour, a threaded bolt receptacle which is provided with an internal thread and passes through the base member in the direction of a central axis as well as at least one clamping element which is provided on the base member, in such a manner that it is, on the one hand, simple to produce and, on the other hand, allows reliable clamping without damaging the threaded bolt it is suggested that the clamping element be a collar which is arranged on one side of the base member and in which the internal thread is continued, and that the collar extend around the threaded bolt receptacle in an essentially closed manner in circumferential direction with respect to the central axis. |
| US09115744B1 |
Captive fastener with engaging and locking mechanism
A fastener comprises a body having a first portion and a second portion. At least one moveable flange is arranged on the first portion of the body, and is moveable between a first unlocked position, and a second locked position. A second flange is arranged on the second portion of the body. The first and second body portions are adjustably connected such that the distance between the at least one moveable flange and the second flange along the longitudinal axis of the body is adjustable. |
| US09115741B2 |
Slide for interconnecting to a frame
A slide is provided for interconnecting to a frame. The slide includes a bar extending along a main axis and having an inner face, an outer face, first and second sides and a bolt-receiving bore extending between the inner face and the outer face along a bore axis at an acute angle to the outer face. The first and second sides includes recessed grooves therein. A sliding member includes first and second legs projecting therefrom and being slidably received in corresponding grooves in the first and second sides of the bar. The legs guiding slideable movement of the sliding member along the bar. |
| US09115739B2 |
Tool handle adapter
An adapter for releasably gripping the end of a long-handled tool handle. The adapter including a plurality of grippers threadably mounted around a tubular body. An engagement plug having both male and female threaded ends is removable secured to the end of the tubular body for engaging a tool's work head. |
| US09115738B2 |
Connector for straw construction kit
A connector for a straw construction kit includes a body having a central base portion and a plurality of fingers extending radially outward from the central base portion and spaced apart from one another. The central base portion has a notch formed therein and being accessible between a pair of fingers. The finger is configured for insertion into one straw. The connector can be mated to another connector to form another connector having a different shape. |
| US09115727B2 |
Master cylinder apparatus
A master cylinder apparatus A1 includes a master cylinder 1 and a reservoir 3. The master cylinder 1 transduces an input to a brake operator into a brake fluid pressure. The reservoir 3 includes a fluid supply hole 3a that is connected to the master cylinder 1. A base body 10 of the master cylinder 1 includes a first cylinder hole 11a into which a piston is inserted, a reservoir union port 13a to which the fluid supply hole 3a is connected, and a communication hole 13d. The communication hole 13d has one end opening in a bottom surface of the reservoir union port 13a, and the other end opening in an inner circumferential surface of the first cylinder hole 11a. A center axis O3 of the reservoir union port 13a passes through a position being apart from a center axis O1 of the first cylinder hole 11a. |
| US09115726B2 |
Housing of cooling fan and method manufacturing of the same
An exemplary housing of a cooling fan includes a metallic base plate and a plastic bear seat. Clasps extend upwardly from the base plate. The bear seat is formed on the base plate via injection process. A bottom end of the bear seat directly contacts the base plate. The clasps are embedded in the bear seat. |
| US09115725B2 |
Centrifugal pump and method for compensating the axial thrust in a centrifugal pump
A centrifugal pump is proposed having a pump housing (2) which has an inlet (21) and an outlet (22), a rotor (3) having a front side (31) facing the inlet (21) and a rear side (32) remote from the inlet (21), and wherein the rotor (3) has a first pump wheel (4) having first vanes (41) for the generation of a main flow from the inlet (21) to the outlet (22), wherein a second pump wheel (5) having second vanes (52) and having at least one relief bore (6) is provided at the rotor (3) for the generation of a recirculation flow which is directed from the rear side (32) of the rotor (3) through the at least one relief bore (6) and wherein a partition element (7), which separates the recirculation flow at least partly from the main flow in the region of the second pump wheel (5), is provided between the two pump wheels (4, 5). A method for the compensation of the axial thrust in a centrifugal pump is furthermore proposed. |
| US09115724B2 |
Blade structure and ceiling fan having the same
A blade structure and ceiling fan having the same are disclosed. The blade structure includes a blade root, a blade tip, and a first vertex and a second vertex between the blade root and the blade tip. The blade bends from blade root to the first vertex, the blade tip and then bends from the blade tip to the second vertex and back to the blade root to form a hollow structure. The ceiling fan with the blade structure not only provides air modulating function but also has unique modeling. |
| US09115723B2 |
Cooling fan with impeller
A cooling fan includes a hub and an impeller. The hub includes a circular wall and an annular wall. The annular wall has a position end opposite to the circular wall. The impeller includes a blade ring and a plurality of blades integrally extending outwards from an outer circumferential surface of the blade ring. The blade ring receives the hub and has a first mounting end and a second mounting end opposite to the first mounting end. When the position end abuts the second mounting end of the blade ring, the blades extend aslant from the blade ring toward a counterclockwise direction relative to the circular wall. When the position end abuts the first mounting end of the blade ring, the blades extend aslant from the blade ring toward a clockwise direction relative to the circular wall. |
| US09115720B2 |
Dual pump and motor with control device
The present pump devices provide a dual pump using two (or more) electric motors (e.g. brushless DC motors) driving the pumps independently, including integration of hydraulic and electrical components and connectors. The illustrated arrangements include an in-line single shaft version, a parallel separate shaft version, and an inside-outside version. Each configuration includes a housing supporting formation of: shared structural support for the pumps and motors (e.g., bearings, stator, relationship of components), fluid pump and hydraulic system (e.g., fluid passageways, ports connectors) and motor electrical control (e.g., control circuitry and sensory components). |
| US09115718B2 |
Compressor bearing and unloader assembly
A compressor is provided that may include a drive shaft, a compression mechanism, a bearing and an unloader. The drive shaft may include a main body and a crank pin extending from the main body. The compression mechanism may include first and second members. The crank pin may drivingly engage the second member and cause motion of the second member relative to the first member. The bearing may rotatably supporting the main body of the drive shaft. The unloader may rotatably engage the bearing and slidably engage the main body. |
| US09115710B2 |
Coaxial pumping apparatus with internal power fluid column
The present application relates generally to pumps, and more particularly to piston type pumps having increased energy efficiency, systems incorporating such piston type pumps, and methods of operating piston type pumps. |
| US09115709B2 |
Fluid pumping apparatus for use with a removable fluid pumping cartridge
The present invention involves, in some embodiments apparatus, such as dialysis apparatus, and methods for pumping fluid. Certain embodiments comprise a housing enclosing a pump drive assembly for actuating at least one pump on a removable fluid pumping cassette. The housing may comprise a door connected to the housing for enclosing an installed cassette in the housing upon closure of the door. The pump drive assembly may comprise a mating block configured for operative association with an installed cassette and to may be configured to permit a sealing engagement with an installed cassette upon closure of the door. To facilitate sealing, certain embodiments of the door include a movable compression plate configured to exert a compressive force on an installed cassette against the mating block when the door is in a closed position. |
| US09115706B2 |
Compressor
A compressor includes a housing, compression unit, discharge chamber, outlet, and oil separation structure. The oil separation structure, which is arranged between the discharge chamber and the outlet, includes an oil reservoir, oil separation compartment, intake passage, exhaust passage, and supply passage. The oil separation compartment is located upward from the oil reservoir. The intake passage, which extends upward from the oil separation compartment, draws refrigerant gas into the oil separation compartment from the discharge chamber to separate lubrication oil from the refrigerant gas. The exhaust passage extends upward from the oil separation compartment and discharges the refrigerant gas in the oil separation compartment out of the housing through the outlet. The supply passage extends upward from the oil separation compartment and has a larger cross-sectional area than the intake passage. The supply passage supplies the oil reservoir with lubrication oil from the oil separation compartment. |
| US09115703B2 |
Adjustable hydraulic pump
A hydraulic pump includes an adjustment device configured to adjust a delivery volume. The adjustment device is configured to be connected via a shuttle valve to a control pressure supply and to a working line. The working line is supplied by the hydraulic pump. The adjustment device is configured to be alternately supplied with control pressure by the control pressure supply and by the hydraulic pump. The hydraulic pump also includes a nozzle. The nozzle is configured to connect the working line to the control pressure supply in a zero stroke operating mode. The nozzle is formed in or on a valve body of the shuttle valve. |
| US09115700B2 |
Foundation for wind turbine
A method of stabilizing a wind power installation including early identification of the need for stabilization of the wind power installation by means of measurement of the pylon movement during operation of the wind power installation. |
| US09115696B2 |
Direct drive wind turbine and method for controlling an air gap
A direct drive wind turbine has a a rotor and a generator. The rotor includes a hub and a plurality of blades rotatably mounted on a frame. The generator includes a generator rotor and a generator stator. There are one or more dampers arranged between the rotor and the generator rotor and extending at least partially in an axial direction. |
| US09115688B1 |
Wind resistance wave generator
A new wind resisting electricity generator that floats offshore supported by buoyancy-providing used tires filled with waterproof foam. Electricity is generated through water turbines, uniformly rotated using waves and under water currents, and through directional wind turbines. Used tires are mounted on a mechanical and electrical utilities structure and a wind energy structure to interrupt wind flow near water surfaces in onshore directed weather. Dummy floats that provide protection from floating debris for the water turbines and direct waves to the upper turbine blades are alternated with generator floats in a line offshore and are held together with connecting chains and recycled tires mounted on the connecting chains. |
| US09115687B2 |
Efficient wave energy conversion using cycloidal turbines
A single-blade or double-blade cycloidal turbine can operate as a wave generator or a wave energy converter. Efficient operation techniques can adjust a pitch angle, a radial size, and/or a depth of the cycloidal turbine according to the height and wavelength of an incoming wave. The rotation of the cycloidal turbine can be controlled so that a rotational period of the cycloidal turbine matches the period of the wave and so that a target difference is maintained between a rotation angle of the cycloidal turbine and a phase angle of the wave. |
| US09115686B2 |
Wave energy converter with rotary hydraulic spring
The generally up and down movement of a reaction mass is converted into rotary motion which is used to drive a rotary hydraulic spring comprised of a rotary hydraulic pump motor and an accumulator to produce a “spring” function. The invention is particularly applicable to wave energy converters (WECs) having a reaction mass which needs to be coupled to a spring to ensure its oscillation and to cause it to be centered about its center of travel. The linear up-down motion of a reaction mass may be converted via a linear-to-rotary translator to rotary motion to drive a rotary hydraulic pump/motor so as to provide spring action to the reaction mass and ensure its oscillation and proper positioning. |
| US09115683B2 |
Engine starting device
A ring gear to be coupled to a crankshaft of an engine; a starter motor for starting the engine; a pinion gear for transmitting rotation of the starter motor to the ring gear; pinion-gear meshing-engagement unit for moving the pinion gear to achieve meshing engagement with the ring gear; rpm-difference acquiring unit for acquiring an rpm difference between the pinion gear and the ring gear; and restart control unit for allowing the pinion gear to be moved by the pinion-gear meshing-engagement unit when the rpm difference between the pinion gear and the ring gear, which is acquired by the rpm-difference acquiring unit, becomes smaller than a threshold value are provided. The restart control unit includes threshold-value setting unit, and the threshold value corresponding to a characteristic to be input to the threshold-value setting unit is preset. |
| US09115678B2 |
Magnetized fuel injector valve and valve seat
Systems and methods for a permanently magnetized valve mechanism and/or valve mechanism seat for a fuel injector are disclosed. In one example approach, a fuel injector comprises a valve mechanism and a valve mechanism seat, wherein at least one of the valve mechanism and the valve mechanism seat is permanently magnetized; an injector driver circuit for actuating the valve mechanism; and a spring biasing the valve mechanism in a closed position against the valve mechanism seat. For example, a first amount of current may be supplied in a first direction to the injector driver to lift a permanently magnetized injector valve mechanism from the injector valve mechanism seat, and a second amount of current may be supplied in a second direction to the injector driver to close the permanently magnetized injector valve mechanism onto the injector valve mechanism seat. |
| US09115676B2 |
Fuel injection method and combustion engine with early pre-injection
A fuel injection method in an internal combustion engine and an internal combustion engine for performing the fuel injection method. The method includes heating fuel to a temperature between 300° F. and 840° F. (150 and 450° C.); pressurizing the fuel to a pressure exceeding 40 bar; pre-injecting at least 10% of the fuel charge as a pre-injected fuel during the intake stroke; injecting a fuel charge over at least part of the compression stroke into the cylinder; and injecting an ignition-injection of at least 10% of the fuel in a supercritical condition during the compression stroke at a rotational angle between 90° BTDCF and TDCF into the cylinder. The method and related combustion engine create a good mix of premix combustion and diffusion combustion increasing efficiency and consequently reducing emissions to the environment while also keeping noise and vibrations low. |
| US09115674B2 |
Fuel vapor processing devices
One aspect according to the present teachings includes a fuel vapor processing device including a housing having a first port for introduction of fuel vapor, a second port for introduction of negative pressure, and a third port communicating with an atmosphere. An adsorption material is disposed within the housing. In a desorption mode, fuel vapor desorbed by the adsorption material is desorbed from the adsorption material as air flows into the housing via the third port and flows out of the second port. A plurality of heaters are disposed within the housing and are arranged along a path of flow of air from the third port to the second port in the adsorption mode. A controller controls the heaters such that the heaters start to heat the adsorption material in order of the air flow direction from the third port to the second port. The controller preferably also terminates heating of the adsorption material in the same manner. |
| US09115673B2 |
Control device for internal combustion engine
An internal combustion engine control device that acquires the temperature of a catalyst disposed in an exhaust path, and detects an abnormal combustion that has occurred in a combustion chamber. The control device includes a gas control unit, which controls the amount of intake gas flowing into the combustion chamber and the temperature of exhaust gas flowing into the catalyst, and a fuel injection amount control unit, which controls the amount of fuel injected into the combustion chamber. The control device also includes an abnormal combustion inhibition mode selection unit that chooses a first mode, a second mode, or a third mode in accordance with the catalyst temperature when the abnormal combustion is detected. The first mode causes the gas control unit to suppress the occurrence of the abnormal combustion while raising the catalyst temperature. The second mode causes the fuel injection amount control unit to suppress the occurrence of the abnormal combustion while inhibiting an increase in the catalyst temperature. The third mode causes the gas control unit and the fuel injection amount control unit to suppress the occurrence of the abnormal combustion. |
| US09115663B2 |
Vehicle calibration using data collected during normal operating conditions
Systems and methods for optimizing the performance of a vehicle under normal operating conditions. A vehicle system adjusts one or more vehicle operating parameters in a closed-loop in response to data received from sensors. A portable vehicle communication interface module is selectively attached to the vehicle without inhibiting normal operation of the vehicle. When connected to the vehicle, the vehicle communication interface module records the adjustments made by the vehicle system in closed-loop operation. These recorded values are then used to update calibration information that the vehicle system uses as default values. |
| US09115662B1 |
Health-adaptive reaction control system
Methods and apparatuses are provided for managing a plurality of thrusters in a platform. The method and apparatuses comprise operating the plurality of thrusters in the platform with a thruster control system. The methods and apparatuses comprise estimating a vehicle response resulting from the operation of the plurality of thrusters to form an estimated vehicle response. The methods and apparatuses also comprise comparing the estimated vehicle response to a desired vehicle response to develop objective function errors. Also, the methods and apparatuses comprise developing a number of commands configured to correct the objective function errors. |
| US09115661B2 |
Fuel injection amount control system and fuel injection amount control device for multi-cylinder internal combustion engine
A fuel injection amount control system corrects the amount of fuel injected from each fuel injection valve in a feedback manner, based on an output value of an upstream air-fuel ratio sensor, so that the air-fuel ratio of exhaust gas flowing into a three-way catalyst coincides with a target air-fuel ratio. Also, the control system performs a high-pass filtering operation on the output value of the upstream air-fuel ratio sensor, so as to obtain a post-high-pass-filtering output value by removing a component that varies with variations in the center air-fuel ratio of the engine, from the output value of the upstream air-fuel ratio sensor. Then, the control system acquires an air-fuel ratio imbalance index value that increases as the degree of ununiformity in the air-fuel ratio among cylinders is larger, based on the post-high-pass-filtering output value. |
| US09115658B2 |
Controlling charge air cooler condensation by using heated intake air
Methods and systems are provided for adjusting the temperature of intake air entering an engine. In response to condensate in a charge air cooler and engine operating conditions, the position of an induction valve is adjusted to draw in air from a warm or cool air duct. Induction valve operation is further controlled to reduce fuel economy losses. |
| US09115657B2 |
Control apparatus for engine
An engine includes an injector, an ignition plug, a supercharger, an electronic throttle device, and an EGR apparatus. An EGR passage has an inlet connected to an exhaust passage downstream of a turbine and an outlet connected to the intake passage upstream from a compressor. A fresh-air introduction passage is arranged to introduce fresh air to a surge tank downstream from the electronic throttle device and a fresh-air control valve is provided to regulate a fresh air amount. When an ECU determines that the engine is under deceleration and under fuel supply, the ECU closes the electronic throttle device to a predetermined opening degree to scavenge EGR gas flowing from the EGR passage and remaining in the intake passage, opens a fresh-air control valve to a predetermined opening degree, and causes the ignition plug to retard an ignition timing. |
| US09115656B2 |
Control system for internal combustion engine
A control system for an internal combustion engine having a throttle valve disposed in an intake passage of the engine. A target intake air amount of the engine is calculated, and an intake pressure of the engine is estimated. A wide-open intake air amount is calculated according to the engine rotational speed, and a theoretical intake air amount is calculated according to the wide-open intake air amount and the intake pressure. The wide-open intake air amount is an intake air amount corresponding to a state where the throttle valve is fully opened, and the theoretical intake air amount is an intake air amount corresponding to a state where no exhaust gas of the engine is recirculated to a combustion chamber of the engine. further, an exhaust gas recirculation ratio is calculated using the theoretical intake air amount and the target intake air amount, and a target output torque of the engine is calculated using the target intake air amount and the exhaust gas recirculation ratio. The engine is controlled using the target output torque. |
| US09115653B2 |
System and method for emptying a tank
A system for method for emptying a gas storage tank of a vehicle is presented. In one example, engine valve timing is adjusted to facilitate reducing pressure within the gas storage tank. The system and method may extend the use of the gas stored in the gas storage tank. |
| US09115652B2 |
Oil control valve and variable valve lift system provided with the same
An oil control valve includes a housing having a control port and a drain port, a first seat with a first penetration hole forming a first chamber, a second seat with a second penetration hole forming a second chamber communicated with the control port, the second seat with the housing forming a third chamber communicating with the drain port, a first check valve within the first chamber selectively closing the first penetration hole, a second check valve within the third chamber selectively closing the second penetration hole, and a third penetration hole, a control portion selectively opening the first check valve and simultaneously closing the second check valve or selectively closing the first check valve and simultaneously opening the second check valve and an orifice connecting the first chamber with the second chamber. |
| US09115649B2 |
Fan stagger angle for dirt rejection
A gas turbine engine includes a spool, a turbine coupled to drive the spool, a propulsor coupled to be rotated about an axis by the turbine through the spool, and a gear assembly coupled between the propulsor and the spool such that rotation of the turbine drives the propulsor at a different speed than the spool. The propulsor includes a hub and a row of propulsor blades that extend from the hub. Each of the propulsor blades has a span between a root at the hub and a tip, and a chord between a leading edge and a trailing edge. The chord forms a stagger angle α with the axis, and the stagger angle α is less than 15° at a position along the propulsor blade that is within an inboard 20% of the span. |
| US09115643B2 |
Control device for internal combustion engine with supercharger
The present invention is a proposal relating to cooperative manipulation of an actuator which actively changes a supercharging pressure and a throttle in the case of application of torque demand control to an internal combustion engine with a supercharger. A control device provided by the present invention separately determines a target air quantity for manipulation of the throttle, and a target air quantity for manipulation of the actuator. In more detail, driver required torque which is included in required torque is converted into an air quantity in accordance with a predetermined conversion rule, and the air quantity which is obtained by the conversion is determined by calculation as a reference target air quantity. The reference target air quantity is used as a target air quantity for throttle manipulation, and is also used as a target air quantity for actuator manipulation at a normal time. When a change occurs to the required torque, and the change cannot be realized under the reference target air quantity, a correction target air quantity capable of realizing the change is determined by calculation, and is used as the target air quantity for throttle manipulation. |
| US09115642B2 |
Turbocharger provided with an electrical machine for a supercharged internal combustion engine
A turbocharger for a supercharged internal combustion engine; the turbocharger has: a turbine, which is provided with a shaft mounted in a rotatory manner; a compressor, which is provided with a shaft mounted in a rotatory manner and is mechanically independent from the shaft of the turbine; and a single electrical machine, which is interposed between the turbine and the compressor, and is provided with a first rotor, which is mechanically connected to the shaft of the turbine, and with a second rotor which is mechanically connected to the shaft of the compressor to work as an electromagnetic joint between the shaft of the turbine and the shaft of the compressor. |
| US09115637B2 |
Radiator for vehicle
A radiator apparatus for a vehicle may include an inlet tank receiving coolant from an engine, a heat-exchanging portion fluidly connected to the inlet tank and provided with a plurality of tubes and radiation fins so as to cool the coolant flowing in the tubes by exchanging heat with air, and an outlet tank disposed apart from the inlet tank and fluid-connected to the heat-exchanging portion, wherein the outlet tank receives the coolant from the heat-exchanging portion and discharges the coolant back to the engine, a bubble separating unit mounted on a connecting hose supplying the coolant from the engine to the inlet tank, wherein the bubble separating unit separates bubble contained in the coolant and supplies the coolant from which the bubble may be separated to the inlet tank so as for the coolant to pass through the heat-exchanging portion. |
| US09115634B2 |
Rotary slide valve with a thermostatic bypass
The invention relates to a fail-safe rotary actuator (1) for a coolant circuit, in particular for a coolant circuit of an internal combustion engine (2) having a plurality of sub-circuits (3) and (4), includes a coolant delivery pump (5) for circulating the coolant within the coolant circuit, and having a rotary-slide housing (8) which has a plurality of housing pass-through openings (6) and (7) and in which at least one rotary slide (9) having at least one rotary slide pass-through opening (11) and (12) is rotatably supported, wherein the housing pass-through openings (6) and/or (7) are fluidly connected to at least one sub-circuit (3) and/or (4), and can be brought into at least partial coincidence with the rotary slide pass-through openings (11) and/or (12) by a rotary motion of the rotary slide (9), wherein a thermostat valve (13) opens a flow path running parallel to the rotary slide (9) from one of the sub-circuits (3) or (4) to the coolant delivery pump (5), when a temperature limit of the coolant is exceeded. |
| US09115622B2 |
Heating module for an exhaust-gas purification system
A heating module (1) for an exhaust-gas purification system connected to the outlet of an internal combustion engine comprises a catalytic burner, with an HC injector (14) and with an oxidation catalytic converter (12) positioned downstream of the HC injector (14) in the flow direction of the exhaust gas, for supplying thermal energy to an exhaust-gas purification unit of the exhaust-gas purification system. It is provided here that the heating module (1) has a main section (2), a secondary section (3) which comprises the catalytic burner (12, 14), and a device (4, 5) for controlling the exhaust-gas mass flow flowing through the secondary section (3). In a first embodiment, the main section (2) has, in the inlet region or the heating module (1), an overflow pipe portion (6) which has overflow openings (7), between which overflow diverting chambers (8) is situated, parallel to the main section (2) of the heating module (1), the secondary section portion (11) with the oxidation catalytic converter (12). In another embodiment, it is provided that the secondary section (3) has, at the inlet side and outlet side, in each case one diverting chamber (8) which extends in the radial direction from the main section (2), between which diverting chambers (8) is situated, parallel to the main section (2) of the heating module (1), the secondary section portion (11) with the oxidation catalytic converter (12). |
| US09115620B2 |
Cross-linkable polyolefin composition for formed textured skin applications
The present invention relates to a flexible polyolefin composition, a sheet made therefrom, and a formed textured skin for applications such as interior furnishings of an automobile and a process to make such composition, sheet, and textured skin. Specifically said composition comprises an extrudable cross-linkable polyolefin composition comprising: (i) from 60 to 75 weight percent of one or more one silane cross-linkable polyolefin polymer; (ii) a moisture-cure condensation catalyst; and (iii) from 25 to 40 weight percent of one or more polyolefin polymer elastomer. Preferably an extruded sheet of said composition is formed into a textured skin, preferably by positive vacuum forming. |
| US09115619B2 |
Thermoelectric generator of vehicle
A thermoelectric generator of a vehicle converts thermal energy of exhaust gas of an engine into electric energy by using a thermoelectric phenomenon, and may include: a high-temperature part heated by exchange heat and a plurality of pairs of heat transfer plates mounted on an outer peripheral surface of an exhaust pipe at a predetermined interval; pairs of thermoelectric modules acquired by bonding a P-type semiconductor and an N-type semiconductor, interposed between the pairs of heat transfer plates to generate electricity, and electrically connected to each other; and a low-temperature part interposed between the pairs of thermoelectric modules and cooling inner surfaces of the pairs of thermoelectric modules. The plurality of thermoelectric modules generates electricity by a difference in temperature between heated outer surfaces and cooled inner surfaces. Thermoelectric efficiency is improved and a small-sized thermoelectric generator of a vehicle may be implemented. |
| US09115616B2 |
Electric heating assisted passive and active regeneration for efficient emission controls of diesel engines
A method of heating an exhaust gas in an exhaust aftertreatment system including a Diesel Oxidation Catalyst (DOC) and a diesel particulate filter (DPF) is provided. The method includes heating the exhaust gas to a predetermined temperature to increase NO2 generation in the DOC when the DPF is not actively regenerated, and heating the exhaust gas to reduce an exhaust temperature gradient when the DPF is actively regenerated. The exhaust temperature gradient is reduced by providing more heat proximate a wall of an exhaust conduit and less heat proximate a center of the exhaust conduit. |
| US09115614B2 |
Lubricant feed mechanism for engine
Provided is a lubricant feed mechanism for an engine in which space above a cam cap is not used. A lubricant feed mechanism for an engine is configured to feed lubricant through a cylinder head, a camshaft, and a cam cap to a cam of a valve gear. The mechanism includes an oil feed member that is disposed in the cam cap such that an upper end thereof is set at a lower level than an upper end of the cam cap in a height-wise direction and has an oil passage configured to guide lubricant to be fed through the cam cap to the cam. |
| US09115613B2 |
Splined-shaft connection and valve timing mechanism with a splined-shaft connection between a camshaft and displaceable cam carriers
An assembly including a rotatable shaft with external splines and an annular member receiving such shaft, provided with internal splines meshing with the external splines of such shaft wherein the external splines of different segments of the shaft are configured to effectively transmit torque in use and facilitate the mounting of the shaft into the annular member in assembly. |
| US09115611B2 |
Variable valve operating apparatus for internal combustion engine
A variable valve operating apparatus including an electric motor including a motor housing with a permanent magnet, and a speed reducing mechanism having a casing, the motor housing and the casing of the speed reducing mechanism being coupled to each other by a plurality of bolts, wherein the motor housing includes a convex portion formed in a portion of the motor housing which is opposed to one axial end of the permanent magnet, the convex portion having a threaded hole into which a tip end portion of each bolt is screwed, and a projection formed on an axial end surface of the convex portion in alignment with the threaded hole in an axial direction of the threaded hole, and wherein the axial end surface of the convex portion is located further spaced from the one axial end of the permanent magnet than the projection. |
| US09115609B2 |
Nested locking mechanism for switchable roller finger follower
A finger lever is provided for a valve train of an internal combustion engine. The finger lever comprises an inner lever, at least one arm pivotally coupled to the inner lever, and a coupling device operatively displaceable to control movement of the at least one arm relative to the inner lever. The coupling device includes a slide and a piston disposed in a longitudinal bore of the inner lever, the piston having an entraining slot in which at least part of the slide is received, and at least one biasing member arranged to bias the piston relative to the inner lever. The slide is constructed to be displaced in a coupled position or an uncoupled position. In the coupled position the slide is entrained by the at least one arm, and in the uncoupled position the slide is not entrained by the at least one arm. |
| US09115606B2 |
Head assembly for an internal combustion engine
A head assembly and valve-less internal combustion engine are disclosed. The head assembly includes a head having a first port extending through the head and a surface defining a portion of a combustion chamber in fluid communication with the first port. The head further includes a first shaft mounted in a first bore of the head between the first port and the combustion chamber. The first shaft includes a first aperture extending therethrough and is rotatable between a first orientation wherein the first shaft blocks fluid communication between the first port and the combustion chamber and a second orientation wherein the first shaft permits fluid communication between the first port and the combustion chamber through the first aperture. |
| US09115605B2 |
Thermal energy conversion device
Embodiments provide a power generation device that utilizes a working fluid containing carbon dioxide within a working fluid circuit having high and low pressure sides. Components of the device may include a heat exchanger configured to be in thermal communication with a heat source whereby thermal energy is transferred from the heat source to the working fluid, an expander located between the high and low pressure sides of the working fluid circuit and operative to convert a pressure drop in the working fluid to mechanical energy, a recuperator operative to transfer thermal energy between the high and low pressure sides, a cooler operative to control temperature of the working fluid in the low pressure side, a pump operative to circulate the working fluid through the working fluid circuit, and a mass management system configured to control an amount of working fluid mass in the working fluid circuit. |
| US09115604B2 |
Power system
A power system includes a Rankine cycle local generator having a capacity greater than a maximum anticipated power level. One or more control devices are operatively connected to the local generator for regulating active and reactive power generated by the generator. Detectors are provided to sense active and reactive voltages. The controller directs the control devices to regulate the generator such that the active power and reactive power are sufficient to satisfy the active and reactive load conditions. |
| US09115603B2 |
Multiple organic Rankine cycle system and method
Apparatus, systems and methods are provided for the use of multiple organic Rankine cycle (ORC) systems that generate mechanical and/or electric power from multiple co-located waste heat flows using a specially configured system of multiple expanders operating at multiple temperatures and/or multiple pressures (“MP”) utilizing a common working fluid. The multiple ORC cycle system accepts waste heat energy at different temperatures and utilizes a single closed-loop cycle of organic refrigerant flowing through all expanders in the system, where the distribution of heat energy to each of the expanders allocated to permit utilization of up to all available heat energy, In some embodiments, the multiple ORC system maximizes the output of the waste energy recovery process. The expanders can be operatively coupled to one or more generators that convert the mechanical energy of the expansion process into electrical energy. |
| US09115602B2 |
Exhaust diffuser including flow mixing ramp for a gas turbine engine
A turbine exhaust diffuser for a gas turbine engine. The diffuser includes a flow ramp positioned on an ID flowpath boundary within a flowpath of the diffuser. The flow ramp extends circumferentially about the hub and includes a downstream, radially outward point that extends radially outward further from the ID flowpath boundary than an upstream, radially outward point that is positioned upstream from the downstream, radially outward point. A wavy portion is located at the downstream, radially outward point of the flow ramp. The wavy portion includes a circumferentially extending, undulating surface defined by alternating axially extending crests and troughs. |
| US09115601B2 |
Turbomachine component alignment
A rotating machine has a barrel casing and at least one component carrier disposed therein. The component carrier is aligned and supported within the barrel casing using a plurality of carrier alignment fixtures which have alignment shafts that extend through the barrel casing to the component carrier. Each alignment shaft has an eccentric key pin extending from a distal end thereof and an alignment key rotatably-mounted to each eccentric key pin. The alignment keys mate with corresponding keyway slots defined on the component carrier such that when the carrier alignment fixtures are rotated axially, the corresponding alignment keys bias against the keyway slot and shift the position of the component carrier. |
| US09115598B2 |
Front bearing support for a fan drive gear system
A fan shaft support assembly for a gas turbine engine includes first and second bearing assembles supported by a bearing support structure. The bearing support structure includes a first support including a first support end supporting the first bearing assembly and a second support including a second support end supporting the second bearing assembly. The first support end and the second support end are spaced apart to provide a preload on the first and second bearing assemblies. |
| US09115594B2 |
Compressor casing treatment for gas turbine engine
An axial flow compressor for a gas turbine engine is disclosed having a casing treatment that includes a shrouded rotor and an airflow member disposed in a passage between a casing and the shrouded rotor. In one form the airflow member is stationary with the casing and in another the airflow member is coupled to rotate with the shrouded rotor. The airflow member can have an airfoil shape in some embodiments. A passage inlet that extracts working fluid and provides it to the passage can be formed between a leading edge of the rotor and a trailing edge. A passage outlet can be formed upstream of the leading edge of the rotor. |
| US09115590B2 |
Gas turbine engine airfoil cooling circuit
A component for a gas turbine engine according to an exemplary aspect of the present disclosure includes, among other things, an airfoil that extends between a leading edge, a trailing edge, a pressure side wall and a suction side wall. A cooling circuit is disposed inside of the airfoil. The cooling circuit includes a first core cavity that radially extends inside of the airfoil. A first axial skin core is in fluid communication with the first core cavity at a first location of the first axial skin core and a second core cavity is in fluid communication with the first axial skin core at a second location of the first axial skin core. |
| US09115587B2 |
Cooling air configuration in a gas turbine engine
Cooling air is provided from a source of cooling air through a cooling air circuit in a turbine section of a gas turbine engine. A first portion of cooling air is provided from the source along a first path of the circuit to a plurality of blades associated with a stage of the turbine section. A second portion of cooling air is provided from the source along a second path of the circuit. The second path includes a turbine disc bore where the cooling air provides cooling to a radially innermost portion of at least one turbine disc that forms a part of a rotor of the engine. The second path is independent from the first path such that the second portion of cooling air bypasses the stage and is not mixed with the first portion of cooling air in the circuit after leaving the source. |
| US09115577B2 |
Solvent injection recovery process
A process for the recovery of hydrocarbon such as bitumen/EHO from a hydrocarbon bearing formation in which are situated an upper injection well and a lower production well, the method comprising the steps: preheating an area around and between the wells by circulating hot solvent through the completed interval of each of the wells until sufficient hydraulic communication between both wells is achieved; injecting one of more hydrocarbon solvents into the upper injection well at or above critical temperature of the solvent or solvent mixture, thereby causing a mixture of hydrocarbon and solvent to flow by gravity drainage to the lower production well; and producing the hydrocarbon to the surface through the lower production well. |
| US09115575B2 |
Indirect downhole steam generator with carbon dioxide capture
Methods and systems for enhancing recovery of hydrocarbons below a permafrost layer are provided which use a downhole combustion device to inject a heated fluid into a subterranean formation to enhance hydrocarbon recovery through viscosity reduction. The system is configured to avoid adversely thermally affecting the permafrost, which is highly undesirable. One or more heat exchangers may be used in conjunction with the combustion device to enhance heat transfer of various streams. The heat exchanger(s) mitigate the adverse effects of various streams on the permafrost by lowering the return stream temperatures, which are transported through the wellbore. A carbon dioxide capture system may be provided to recover carbon dioxide from the combustion device exhaust. Certain optional embodiments allow the amount of carbon dioxide introduced into the formation to be independently controlled to further enhance the hydrocarbon recovery. |
| US09115569B2 |
Real-time casing detection using tilted and crossed antenna measurement
Methods and apparatus for detecting nearby conductors such as pipes, well casing, etc., from within a borehole. A nearby casing string can be detected by transmitting an electromagnetic signal from a transmit antenna on a downhole logging tool and measuring a parallel response signal with a first receive antenna parallel to the transmit antenna and a perpendicular response signal with a second receive antenna perpendicular to the transmit antenna, both receive antennas on the downhole logging tool. As the tool rotates, the transmitting and measuring are repeated to determine the azimuthal dependence of the parallel and perpendicular response signals. The azimuthal dependence is analyzed to determine a diagonal component of said azimuthal dependence for each response signal. Distance to a casing string can be estimated using the diagonal component of each response signal. At least one of the antennas is preferably tilted. |
| US09115566B2 |
System and method for hydrocarbon production forecasting
A system and method for hydrocarbon production forecasting which includes creating an integrated production model representative of at least two interconnected subsurface tanks, at least one well, and a surface network, wherein the surface network comprises multiple components including at least one pipeline; parameterizing a subsurface part of the integrated production model by using material balance to characterize the at least two interconnected subsurface tanks; parameterizing a well part of the integrated production model based in part on well geometry; parameterizing the surface network based on the multiple components of the surface network; combining the parameterized subsurface part, the parameterized well part and the parameterized surface network into an improved integrated production model; forecasting hydrocarbon production based on the improved integrated production model and displaying the input, output and intermediary products. |
| US09115561B2 |
Load enhanced locking arrangement
In a wellhead near the top of an oil and gas well, a locking profile configured for locking engagement with an inner well member and including a locking ridge having a rib and a locking shoulder. The locking ridge extends radially inward from an inner surface of the wellhead into a well bore. The rib is located on an end of the ridge distal from the wellhead and protrudes into the inner well member. The locking shoulder is located on an end of the ridge distal from the wellhead and adjacent a lower end of the rib, so that as the inner well member exerts an upward force on the rib, the upward force creates a moment in the locking ridge that pushes the locking shoulder into tighter engagement with the inner well member. |
| US09115560B2 |
Annulus seal utilizing energized discrete soft interfacial sealing elements
A seal assembly for sealing an annulus between inner and outer wellhead members includes an energizer ring formed of a high strength elastic material having inner and outer legs. An annular inner recess with grooves on its base is formed on an inward facing surface of the inner leg. An inner diameter seal ring formed of an inelastic material engages the grooves of the inner recess. An annular outer recess with grooves on its base is formed on an outward facing surface of the outer leg. An outer diameter seal ring formed of an inelastic material engages the grooves of the outer recess. When the energizer ring is coaxially inserted in the annulus, the inner diameter seal ring is compressively and permanently deformed into sealing contact with the inner wellhead member, and the outer diameter seal ring is compressively and permanently deformed into sealing contact with the outer wellhead member. |
| US09115558B2 |
Apparatus and method for abrasive perforating and cleanout
An apparatus and a method of performing a plurality of operations in a wellbore with one direction of flow. A multicycle open/close valve (MCOCV) responsive to a plurality of flow rates is placed in a bottom hole assembly (BHA) and is used to perform abrasive perforating of a wellbore or cleanout of the wellbore using one direction of flow. At one or more first flow rates, the MCOCV is configured to operate in a first operating mode to abrasive perforate the wellbore. At one or more second flow rates, the MCOCV is configured to operate in a second operating mode to cleanout the wellbore. In an embodiment, the MCOCV includes a J-slot sequencing mechanism responsive to a sequence of flow rates to cycle the MCOCV through a plurality of operating modes. |
| US09115551B2 |
Reaming shell for mining
A reaming shell for mining is provided. The reaming shell has a shank, and a plurality of pads attached at circumferential intervals from each other to extend lengthwise on an outer periphery of the shank. The reaming shell is coupled to a core bit of a diamond drilling tool for mining. The reaming shell includes a water groove of a recessed shape formed respectively between each adjacent pair of the pads, and extending from a leading edge along a length of the shank. |
| US09115550B2 |
Robotic disassembly method at a well site
An example robotic method for disassembling and removing a well string (e.g., a string of sucker rods or tubing within a wellbore) involves a computer controlled track and trolley system. Movement of multiple trolleys, carriages, shuttles, articulated arms and other hardware is orchestrated in a manner that minimizes cycle time and thus reduces the overall time for removing the entire well string. In some examples, upper and lower robots travel along and share a first set of tracks while an upper trolley mechanism and a main trolley travel along and share a second set of tracks. In some examples, the two sets of tracks are mounted vertically to a mast, wherein the mast is part of a workover vehicle. |
| US09115548B2 |
Large diameter tubular lifting apparatuses and methods
A method to add a joint of pipe to a conductor string includes securing the conductor string with a spider, grasping an upper end of the joint of pipe with a segmented-ring elevator, engaging a plurality of slips of the elevator with an outer profile of the joint of pipe, raising the grasped joint of pipe from non-vertical to vertical, positioning the vertical joint of pipe atop the secured conductor string, attaching the joint of pipe to the conductor string, releasing the conductor string from the spider, and retaining the joint of pipe and the conductor string with the segmented-ring elevator. |
| US09115542B1 |
Geo-diving device
An automated device digs a payload into a geologic formation while filling a hole behind it. The device is made of components including a computer controller; a battery; a motor; a payload body; a drill head having a spiral blade; a cylindrical shell attached to the payload body to form an annulus between an inner wall of the cylindrical shell and the outer wall of the payload body; and a plurality of rotating track treads controlled by the computer controller. The device optionally includes: a hydraulic ram adapted to compress debris; a coil of wire adapted to unwind from the top end of the payload body; a hammer blade; ground penetrating radar; a gimbal mechanism; an engine-generator unit; and a cave traverse system. |
| US09115537B2 |
Battery-powered roller shade system
A battery-powered roller shade system can include a housing that is configured to be coupled to a structure, and can include a housing body that defines an internal cavity and an access opening that extends through the housing body and into the internal cavity. The system can further include a roller tube rotatably mounted in the internal cavity, a roller shade windingly received around the roller tube, and a battery compartment positioned within the internal cavity. The battery compartment can further define an access aperture that is aligned with the access opening, such that at least one battery is removable from the battery compartment through the access aperture and through the access opening without moving the roller shade to a lowered position and without decoupling the housing from the structure. |
| US09115536B2 |
Method for making a pane module and a window comprising such a pane module
The pane module comprises a pane element composed by glass sheets (31, 35) and provided with a border element (37, 38) by molding. The border element is adhered to the pane element during the molding process and at least partially encases the border of at least one sheet element. |
| US09115535B2 |
Sliding screen door mechanism
A sliding screen door mechanism (100) includes a bottom channel (122), top channel (124) and side channel (126). The bottom channel (122) has a web (132) and a bottom mount (134) which is screw fastened to a surface surrounding an entry door (112). The top channel (124) includes a top web (152), top door track (156) and top mount (154). |
| US09115534B2 |
Mounting for a side panel of a weighing machine, assembly for a windshield of a weighing machine, and method for removing a side panel of such an assembly
A mounting (28) for a side panel (26) of a weighing machine (10) has two rails (30, 32) which lie opposite one another and extend substantially parallel to each other. The side panel (26) is guided between the rails and thereby moves between a closed position and an open position. A stop (46) on the first rail (30) co-operates with the side panel (26), such that the completely open position is defined, and the second opposite rail (32) lies opposite the first rail (30) with such a spacing that the side panel (26), when being located in the open position, can be moved away by lifting of the rear edge (29) of the side panel (26) over the stop (46), but the opposing front edge (27) of the side panel (26) cannot be lifted or can only be lifted insignificantly. |
| US09115531B1 |
Covering of building's opening
A covering of a building opening includes a rail, a first sash, and a second sash. The rail has a first end and a second end at opposite ends, wherein the rail is straight from the first end to the second end. The first sash is connected to a first axle, wherein the first axle is adjacent to the first end of the rail. The second sash is hinged with the first sash, and connected to a second axle, wherein the second axle is engaged with the rail to reciprocate along the rail. The first axle is not on a moving path of the second axle, nor an extending line of the moving path of the second axle. The covering further includes an adjustable assembly for adjusting a vertical position and a horizontal position of the first sash. |
| US09115529B2 |
Casement window opening control device
A device may limit opening of a sash hingedly coupled to a master frame, and includes: a bracket attached to the sash; a first arm having a first end pivotally coupled to the bracket; a second arm having a first end pivotally coupled to the first arm's second end; means for biasing the second arm into a retracted position; and a release assembly. The release assembly is secured to the master frame and includes a hook pivotable between a first position and a second position, which, in the first position, may be releasably received in an opening in the second end of the second arm when the second arm is in the retracted position, as the sash is closed and received within the master window frame The second arm is disengaged from the hook, permitting full opening of the sash, when the hook is pivoted into the second position. |
| US09115527B2 |
Control device at opening/closing section of vehicle and method for controlling opening/closing section of vehicle
A control device at an opening/closing section of a vehicle and a method for controlling the opening/closing section of the vehicle control a motor so that a pinch at the opening/closing section is determined accurately. The control device includes a pinch determination device that is mounted to the motor for opening/closing the opening/closing section of the vehicle and determines a pinch of a foreign object based on a change in the rotation number of the motor, and demagnetization pulse applying device for supplying power with reverse polarity to the motor in a pulse-like manner at the completion of the opening/closing. |
| US09115524B1 |
Closure dampening bumper
A closure dampening bumper includes a base, a pair of guide walls extending from the base, and a plurality of beams extending from outer surfaces of the guide walls. The base is operable to define a stop-bumper for a moving structure, such as a gooseneck. The guide walls extend from the base and have respective inner and outer surfaces. The inner surfaces taper outward from one another. The distance between the inner surfaces increases from the base to respective distal ends of the guide walls. The guide walls are operable to receive the moving structure between the inner surfaces. The guide walls guide the moving structure to the base. The beams extend from the outer surfaces of the pair of guide walls. The beams elastically deform to dampen the energy associated with the moving structure during passage between the inner surfaces. |
| US09115521B2 |
Motor vehicle fold-down armrest
A motor-vehicle accessory having a pivotal element that can pivot about an axis on a generally fixed support element is provided with a mechanism having an extension on one of the elements offset from the axis and projecting angularly of the axis and a brake on the other of the elements. This brake has a pair of brake shoes flanking the extension and shiftable between a clamping position gripping the element and preventing movement of the element relative to the brake in at least one angular direction and a release position permitting movement of the element relative to the brake both in and against the one direction. |
| US09115520B2 |
Partition system and track support
A system and apparatus for construction interior partitions including a generally U-shaped horizontal track profile including a horizontal base extending to outside rails, a central channel in which to receive a shim and/or panel element and opposing channels in which to secure a gasketed panel retainer. Vertical framing elements at each end of a partition likewise provide side mounted channels with a cooperative channel in which a panel retainer may be secured. With track and framings in place the panel retainers on a first side are installed followed by the panel elements, optionally butt-jointed, and finally the opposing panel retainers. Additionally, a track support element and fastener catch is disclosed to allow a side-mounted sliding door track or other component to be face mounted (screwed) directly therein. |
| US09115517B2 |
Foldable door stop
A hinged two-part doorstop wedge that can be folded into a generally flat or collapsed configuration, and which can be unfolded and deployed in an elevated configuration for placement on the ground near a door so as to stop the motion of the door. The doorstop includes pivotally coupled first and second hinge elements, wherein in the fully collapsed configuration the first hinge element and the second hinge element have generally coplanar upper and lower surfaces, and when in the elevated configuration the top side of the first hinge element is angled upwardly to engage the bottom rail of a door. |
| US09115514B2 |
Mechanically initiated speed-based latch device
A pawl actuation device includes a movable input member that shifts from a first position to an actuated position. The pawl actuation device also includes linkage that selectively interconnects the movable input member and the pawl such that movement of the movable input member at a first velocity causes the pawl to shift to an unlatched position, and movement of the movable input member at a second velocity that is substantially greater than the first velocity does not cause the pawl to shift to its unlatched position, such that pawl remains in its latched position. |
| US09115513B1 |
Securable locking clip
A security device to prevent the theft of personal items comprises a plastic clip with an adjustable movable hasp on a first end and interlocking gripping teeth on an opposing second end. The movable hasp squeezes the jaws together and prevents their opening. The hasp is in turn held in place by a padlock which can secure the device to a stationary object such as a beach chair, post, table, or similar item using a flexible cable. |
| US09115512B2 |
“Match” controlled container
A secure safety container is made up with a base and a cover that can be locked together by an electric operated lock carried by the container. The top and base of the container together form a secure space within the container sized and configured to receive an article or articles. Also carried by the container are a CPU with a touch data entry screen, a rechargeable battery, date entry and infra red data entry ports, a tracking transponder and a thermister to provide humidity and temperature inputs to the CPU. After entry into the CPU of insert data relative to the article or articles to be secured within the secure space the electric lock may be activated to secure the container cover to its base. Upon entry of corresponding retrieve data into the CPU and the CPU determining that there is a “match” between the insert data and retrieve data the electric lock is operated by the CPU to permit access to the secure space within the container and retrieval of the article or articles therein. Such article or articles may be units of blood or uman organs to be “matched” to the patient to receive same or crime scene evidence for which a “chain of custody” is required or similar articles. |
| US09115509B2 |
Adjustable button apparatus of lock
An adjustable button apparatus of a lock includes an adjusting sleeve, a transmission rod, a driving plate and a positioning pin, the adjusting sleeve is movable between a positioning position and an adjusting position. When the adjusting sleeve is located at the positioning position, the adjusting sleeve presses the positioning pin and makes the positioning pin engaged with the transmission rod and the driving plate, when the adjusting sleeve is located at the adjusting position, the positioning pin separates apart from the driving plate to make the driving plate transversely movable in the transmission rod. Via the positioning pin inserted at various positions of the driving plate for adjusting a joint length formed by jointing the transmission rod and the driving plate, the lock is applicable for installation in doors of various door thicknesses. |
| US09115508B2 |
Flexible segmented support structure
An elongated segmented binding cord (SBC) for reversibly housing and securing articles of manufacturing. The SBC reversibly houses and secures objects to a specified location while maintaining a predetermined amount of tension applied on the objects. The SBC includes a main longitudinal axis that includes a plurality of interlockable segments and abutments at opposing ends. Each abutment is adapted to at least reversibly attach at the specified location. |
| US09115498B2 |
Roofing composite including dessicant and method of thermal energy management of a roof by reversible sorption and desorption of moisture
A roof system is secured to a roof deck on a building. The roof system has a thermal energy absorbing product including a desiccant located between the roof deck and a roof barrier. The desiccant reversibly absorbs moisture, and in response thereto, heat is released and absorbed by the desiccant to effect a thermal management of the roof system. |
| US09115497B2 |
Gutter screen assemblies
A screen assembly for receiving high volumes of water flowing from a roof to a gutter. The screen assembly has a first support frame having an upstanding rim extending around a periphery thereof and being construed to be mounted on the gutter and secured to an adjacent portion of a roof fascia. The first support frame has an opening in a bottom surface thereof that is constructed to be disposed over a gutter opening when the first support frame is mounted on the gutter. The screen assembly has a second support frame having a screen secured thereto and extending over the second support frame. The second support frame has a shape corresponding to that of the first support frame and is mounted thereon in close relationship to and within the upstanding rim of the first support frame, the second support frame being connected to the upstanding rim. |
| US09115495B2 |
Reflector assembly for a skylight curb and method of installing same through a safety grid from the roof
The disclosed subject matter is a reflector assembly for a skylight curb and the method of installing same through a safety grid from the roof. The purpose of the disclosed subject matter is to improve the optical performance of skylight curbs. The reflector assembly is manufacture from metallized polymer film, trimmed to match the desired interior curb surface where it will be mounted, and equipped with attachment devices to facilitate installation. The reflector assembly is configured by folding or rolling into a compact shape, passing it through an opening in the safety grid, unfolding it, and securing it in its proper position using the integrated attachment devices. |
| US09115492B2 |
Multi-function stackable chair for concrete reinforcing elements
Multifunction device for positioning reinforcing materials within poured concrete comprising: an octagon-shaped base, with alternative alignment guides, for supporting the device on a supporting surface, an I-beam, or alternatively back-to-back E-beam, construction post with struts extending to the base, and a multifunction clip comprised of a saddle having a plurality of uprights extending therefrom and defining orthogonally-oriented sockets of differing dimensions adapted for clipping onto and positioning reinforcing materials a pre determined distance above the supporting surface. The multifunction clip further comprises means for allowing biasing of the uprights adapted for insertion and releasable retention of reinforcing materials in the sockets, the uprights of the multifunction clip further comprise attachment prongs, and the base of each multifunction device preferably comprises receptacles adapted for allowing alternative interconnected stacking of a plurality of the same identical devices for layered reinforcing of thicker concrete pours. |
| US09115491B2 |
Method and devices for framing openings in cast-in-place walls
A wall assembly comprises a wall component and a framing member. The wall component comprises a first wall panel, a second wall panel, and at least one connecting member positioned between the first wall panel and the second wall panel. The framing member comprises a first panel receiving channel configured to receive at least a portion of the first wall panel, and a first inner flange comprising a first anchor portion configured to guide the first wall panel into the first panel receiving channel. Additional embodiments may include a second panel receiving channel configured to receive at least a portion of the second wall panel and a second inner flange comprising a second anchor portion configured to guide the second wall panel into the second panel receiving channel. Embodiments may be used to form walls made of cast-in-place concrete. |
| US09115487B2 |
Motorized automate/manual push button system
A driving mechanism of a flush apparatus includes a motorized unit supported by a valve body, a plunger arm driven by the motorized unit for operating the valve body between a sealed position to an unsealed position, and a timer module operatively linked to the motorized unit to set a flush interval for enabling the flushing operation to be completed once every flush interval. The driving mechanism converts the flush apparatus into water efficient fixture by controlling the amount of daily flushes for ultimate water efficiency. |
| US09115485B2 |
Tub with separate compartment with integrated water discharge system
A tub includes a receptacle suitable for containing water. The tub also includes a compartment communicating with a discharge orifice of the tub and including an opening emerging in one face of the tub. The tub also includes a communication orifice suitable for the passage of water from the receptacle to the compartment, the compartment housing a water discharge system. A control plate forms a cover in the opening of the compartment and is configured for actuating the opening and closing of the water discharge system, the control plate being flush with the surface of the face of the tub when the discharge system is in the open position. |
| US09115484B2 |
Magnetic accessory attachment device for sink
A magnetic accessory attachment device for a sink that provides the ability to utilize a device to attach any one of an assorted set of accessories to the sidewalls, rim, or base of a sink. The magnetic accessory attachment device can have a magnet disposed within a body. The accessory can have a ferromagnetic material that is attracted to the magnet when brought into proximity with the magnetic accessory attachment device. Examples of suitable accessories include a cup, drain stopper, hook, small shelf, sponge holder, etc. The sink can also include a ferromagnetic material that is attracted to the magnet when brought into proximity with the magnetic accessory attachment device. |
| US09115479B2 |
Corrosion-resistant self-locking manhole cover
A corrosion-resistant self-locking manhole cover includes a cover plate adapted to rest on a manhole cover support surface of a manhole frame so as to be substantially flush with a top portion of the frame and a surrounding surface. An anchor on the cover plate, which may comprise nonmetallic corrosion-resistant material, is adapted to engage the manhole frame at a first location in a manner that resists lifting of the cover plate proximate to such location. A locking member on the cover plate, which may also comprise nonmetallic corrosion-resistant material, is movable between a locked position and an unlocked position. In the locked position, the locking member is adapted to engage the manhole frame at a second location in a manner that resists lifting of the cover plate proximate to such location. In the unlocked position, the locking member is disengaged from the manhole frame. |
| US09115476B2 |
Wave attenuator
A floating wave attenuator including a plurality of elongated pipes, each including a plurality of corrugated pipes connected end-to-end, wherein the elongated pipes are secured together into a triangular formation oriented substantially between a protected area and anticipated wave activity, to provide a cross section against the wave activity, an opening at each end of the elongated pipes, for providing the elongated pipes to be substantially filled with water due to wave activity, and a plurality of cables for securing a selected corrugated pipe at its desired location within the water. |
| US09115475B2 |
Ski slope snow grooming method and relative implement
A ski slope snow grooming method, whereby a ski slope grooming implement is moved in a travelling direction along the snow covering; and coherent-energy beams are projected onto the snow covering to form furrows in the snow covering. |
| US09115474B2 |
Bollard coverings and methods of manufacture and use thereof
A bollard covering formed from a body, a body connector, a first center, a second center, a bottom, and a top is disclosed. The body connector and bottom further comprise post guide surfaces. In order to secure the bollard covering to the post, one or more holes are provided within the bottom, threaded to accommodate a set screw, or the like. Bollard covering elements are joined by welding, bonding, or mechanical fastening. Bollard coverings may be formed from standard inventory elements in order to create a standard inventory or a customized bollard covering product that may be economically configured on an individual bollard covering basis, or on small or large scale runs, with as much variation in optional components, features, and conveniences as may be required by the marketplace. |
| US09115473B1 |
Systems and methods for automating the application of friction-modifying coatings
A system and method for the application of friction-modifying coatings to roadways, walkways, pathways and other areas subject to vehicular, human or animal traffic, the system and method comprising the controlled, simultaneous application of binder and filler to a surface of a substrate, using a mobile device which passes over the substrate as the binder and filler are being applied. Both the binder and the filler are precisely and accurately metered onto the substrate, ensuring uniform coating thickness and performance. The method of this invention also enables the use of different binding systems and precise control over mixing ratios for multi-component binders. |
| US09115471B2 |
Oil-resistant filter wrapper paper
A method of producing a filter wrapper paper for a smoking article is described. The paper has a content of long-fiber pulp of at least 30 wt %, preferably at least 40 wt %, relative to the pure fiber mass of the paper. The freeness of the long-fiber pulp as per ISO 5267, Schopper-Riegler method, is between 80° SR and 100° SR, preferably between 85° SR and 95° SR. The filter wrapper paper has a filler content of less than 10 wt %, preferably less than 8 wt %, and especially preferably less than 6 wt % relative to the total mass of the paper and is impregnated with a material that is suitable for forming an aqueous composition, more particularly an aqueous solution or an aqueous suspension. The oil-resistance of the filter wrapper paper has a KIT level of at least 4, preferably at least 5, according to TAPPI T559 cm-02. |
| US09115467B2 |
Methods and systems for solvent purification
A method including: (a) contacting lime with an extract including an S1 solvent carrying a contaminant load to form a lime treated extract; and (b) reducing the contaminant load by removing solids. |
| US09115466B2 |
Method of making a woven fabric having a desired spacing between tension members
An exemplary method of making a woven fabric includes weaving a plurality of load supporting tension members and a plurality of cross fibers together into a woven fabric. A spacing between adjacent ones of the tension members has a first dimension. At least some of the cross fibers are shrunk to thereby decrease the spacing between the adjacent ones of the tension members to a second, smaller dimension. In another example, two woven fabrics are positioned next to each other. The two fabrics include a spacing between adjacent tension members having a first dimension. At least one tension member of one woven fabric is aligned with and between two of the tension members of the other fabric to thereby decrease the spacing to a second, smaller dimension. |
| US09115461B2 |
Door wash aid dispenser for a laundry treating appliance
A laundry treating appliance may include a door supporting a wash aid dispenser. The door may be mounted for movement relative to a treating chamber and include a projection extending from a lower portion of the door on a side of the door facing the treating chamber. A wash aid receptacle for holding wash aid chemistry may be provided on the projection for dispensing of the wash aid chemistry into the treating chamber. |
| US09115460B2 |
Coupling device for coupling a friction damper on a washing machine
A coupling device for coupling a friction damper onto a washing unit or a machine frame of a washing machine comprises a support part for supporting the friction damper with a support plate for putting on the washing unit or on the machine frame, with a support wall and with a pin having a pin longitudinal axis for mounting in a coupling opening of the friction damper, and a locking part coupled pivotably on the support part about a locking pivot axis between a locking position and an unlocking position, wherein the locking part comprises a fastening element, wherein in the locking position the support plate is secured onto the washing unit or the machine frame by means of the fastening element, and wherein in the unlocking position the support plate on the washing unit or on the machine frame is released by the fastening element. |
| US09115459B2 |
Laundry treating appliance with automatic pump shutoff
A laundry treating appliance having a pump, such as a drain pump, with an automatic shutoff, and a method for controlling the shut off of the pump. |
| US09115453B2 |
Washing machine and a method for controlling the same
The present invention relates a washing machine and a method for controlling the same.The method for controlling a washing machine, having at least one spinning course, the spinning course includes a general spinning step for driving a motor which rotates a drum rotatably mounted in a tub to rotate the drum at a speed higher than a predetermined speed for extracting water, and a foreign matter removal step for supplying water to the tub for removing foreign matters from a space between the tub and the drum, whereby permitting to maintain the washing machine clean. |
| US09115448B2 |
Polymer articles, and methods and dies for making the same
Provided are dies having a first section for orienting material being pressed through the die and a second section for shaping the oriented material into a desired form. In an embodiment, the surface area for shaping the oriented material into a desired form is limited. Also provided are polymer articles and processes for making the same. In an embodiment, the processes employ the dies. |
| US09115442B2 |
Electrodeposition of an autodepositable polymer
Coating bath compositions and processes useful in depositing organic polymeric coatings on metal substrates at low voltages are provided, the baths comprising one or more dispersed organic film forming polymers; and an etchant; wherein the principle film forming polymer is stabilized in the bath by the presence of anionic surfactant, but can be readily anodically deposited under low voltage. The invention also relates to processes of depositing a coating and metal substrates coated using the baths and processes of the invention. |
| US09115438B2 |
Method for the electrolytic production of self-supporting conductive nanocomposite elements
The invention relates to a self-supporting composite element and to a method of producing same. The composite element comprises a substrate of electronic conductive material which is covered with metal nanowires that are essentially oriented along a plane that is perpendicular to the substrate. The element is produced in a cell comprising a cathode which is formed by the substrate to be covered, one or more anodes and an electrolyte which is formed by a solution of a precursor of the metal material and optionally containing a conductive ionic salt, a flat porous membrane which is placed between the cathode and each of the anodes and a spacer element between each membrane and the anode adjacent thereto, the different constituent parts of the cell being maintained in contact. |
| US09115435B2 |
Methods for associating or dissociating guest materials with a metal organic framework, systems for associating or dissociating guest materials within a series of metal organic frameworks, and gas separation assemblies
Methods for releasing associated guest materials from a metal organic framework are provided. Methods for associating guest materials with a metal organic framework are also provided. Methods are provided for selectively associating or dissociating guest materials with a metal organic framework. Systems for associating or dissociating guest materials within a series of metal organic frameworks are provided. Gas separation assemblies are provided. |
| US09115432B2 |
Methods and compositions for inhibiting metal corrosion in heated aqueous solutions
Disclosed are methods for inhibiting corrosion of metals in contact with heated water or heated aqueous solutions during, for example, food and beverage packaging operations including, for example, cooking, pasteurization and/or sterilization through the use of one or more stannous salts and/or reducing agents. |
| US09115424B2 |
Simple method for producing superhydrophobic carbon nanotube array
Efficient methods for producing a superhydrophobic carbon nanotube (CNT) array are set forth. The methods comprise providing a vertically aligned CNT array and performing vacuum pyrolysis on the CNT array to produce a superhydrophobic CNT array. These methods have several advantages over the prior art, such as operational simplicity and efficiency. |
| US09115423B2 |
Methods and systems for monitoring and controlling silicon rod temperature
Systems and methods are disclosed for monitoring and controlling silicon rod temperature. One example is a method of monitoring a surface temperature of at least one silicon rod in a chemical vapor deposition (CVD) reactor during a CVD process. The method includes capturing an image of an interior of the CVD reactor. The image includes a silicon rod. The image is scanned to identify a left edge of the silicon rod and a right edge of the silicon rod. A target area is identified midway between the left edge and the right edge. A temperature of the silicon rod in the target area is determined. |
| US09115411B2 |
Method for production of bio-stimulant, fertilizer, soil conditioner and wind soil erosion suppressant from the vegetative polysaccharides and their compounds
A method of treating vegetative saccharides provides hydrolysates suitable for use as bio-stimulants, fertilizers, soil conditioners and wind soil erosion suppressants. The method comprises the steps of treating the vegetative saccharides, in series, in acid and alkali environments at temperature higher than ambient.The produced product contains humins, levulinic, humic, saccharinic and aldonic acid salts which are effective bio-stumulants and fertilizers for plant growth. Their hydroscopic properties provide (as soil conditioner) the increased water sorption of soil. The saccharinic acid salts binding properties provide forming soil particles together protecting soil against wind erosion. |
| US09115408B2 |
Rapid Salmonella serotyping assay
Processes for the serotype specific detection and identification of one or more Salmonella serotypes are provided. A family of specific primers and probes are provided that allow screening of biological or environmental samples for robust, rapid, and reproducible detection and identification of one or more Salmonella serotypes in the sample. |
| US09115405B2 |
Alternative splicing variant of OATP1B3 mRNA
An object of the present invention is to provide a novel tumor marker and use thereof. In more detail, the present invention provides a novel tumor marker, a method for measuring said tumor marker and a measurement kit, a method for detecting cancer using the same, a kit for detecting cancer, a method for screening a preventive and/or therapeutic agent for cancer, as well as a medicament such as cancer vaccine. According to the present invention, a method for measuring an alternative splicing variant of OATPIB3 mRNA in a sample to be examined is provided. Said measurement method comprises measuring mRNA comprising a nucleotide sequence represented by SEQ ID NO: 1 in the sequence listing table in a sample to be examined isolated from living organism with differentiation from a mRNA comprising a nucleotide sequence represented by SEQ ID NO: 2. Said measurement method is useful for detecting cancer or screening a preventive and/or therapeutic agent. |
| US09115403B2 |
Diagnostic method using PALB2
The present invention provides a method for detecting mutations in the PALB2 gene in pancreatic cancer patients and in individuals having a family history of pancreatic cancer. Methods are also provided for diagnosing a predisposition to pancreatic cancer, for predicting a patient's response to pancreatic cancer therapies, and for treating pancreatic cancer, based on presence of a PALB2 mutation or abberant PALB2 gene expression in a patient. |
| US09115395B2 |
Apparatus for photometric measurement of biological liquids
An apparatus for photometric measurement of biological liquids and a method of simultaneously measuring the presence or quantity of an analyte in a sample region are disclosed. The apparatus includes a plurality of spaced apart sample regions; a light source adapted to emit light including at least one frequency; a lens system including a light coupling system, wherein the light coupling system is disposed between the light source and the plurality of sample regions. A method is also disclosed including illuminating the sample region with a light beam emitted from a light source, wherein said light beam passes a light coupling system, the light coupling system including a telecentric element and a plurality of light mixing rods, wherein the light coupling system is disposed between the light source and the sample region such that the light beam is directed into the sample region. |
| US09115394B2 |
Methods and reagents for reducing non-specific amplification
The present invention provides methods and reagents for use in the amplification of nucleic acids. Amplification carried out using oligonucleotides containing modified nucleotides can result in less non-specific amplification compared to amplification carried out using unmodified oligonucleotides. |
| US09115393B2 |
Systems and devices for isothermal biochemical reactions and/or analysis
An isothermal reaction and analysis system may include a receiver to receive sample holders, a thermal control subsystem to control a temperature of the receiver, an excitation subsystem, a detection subsystem and an analysis subsystem. Excitation sources and/or detectors are positioned to enhance data collection. Sample holders may include filters, selectively blocking and passing wavelengths or bands of electromagnetic radiation. |
| US09115391B2 |
Method of detecting a polymorphism at a polymorphism site
The present invention provides a method for detecting a mutation capable of detecting a mutation with high sensitivity and high reliability in one reaction system. Using primers (Xmt) and (Xwt), a target nucleic acid sequence whose objective base to be detected is a mutant-type is amplified with amplification efficiency higher than a target nucleic acid sequence whose objective base to be detected is a normal-type. The (Xmt) is a primer that is complementary to a region including a mutant-type base in the template nucleic acid and has a base complementary to a mutant-type base at a 3′ region, and the (Xwt) is a primer that is complementary to a region including a normal-type base in the template nucleic acid and has a base complementary to a normal-type base at a 3′ region. It is preferable that amplification efficiency by the (Xmt) with reference to a mutant-type template nucleic acid is higher than that by the (Xwt) with reference to a normal-type template nucleic acid. Then, a signal value that shows a molten state of a hybridization product between the thus obtained amplification product and the probe is measured, and the presence or absence of the mutation of the objective base site is determined from a change in the signal value accompanying a change in the temperature. |
| US09115389B2 |
Method for detecting a target nucleic acid comprising two portions using probes having a first portion complementary to the first portion of the target nucleic acid and a second portion substantially complementary to the second portion of the target nucleic acid
Described herein are methods and compositions for detecting, amplifying and labeling targeted nucleic acids, including microRNAs. |
| US09115386B2 |
Selective oxidation of 5-methylcytosine by TET-family proteins
The present invention provides for novel methods for regulating and detecting the cytosine methylation status of DNA. The invention is based upon identification of a novel and surprising catalytic activity for the family of TET proteins, namely TET1, TET2, TET3, and CXXC4. The novel activity is related to the enzymes being capable of converting the cytosine nucleotide 5-methylcytosine into 5-hydroxymethylcytosine by hydroxylation. |
| US09115384B2 |
Methods and compositions for detecting receptor-ligand interactions in single cells
The invention provides methods and compositions for simultaneously detecting the activation state of a plurality of proteins in single cells using flow cytometry. The invention further provides methods and compositions of screening for bioactive agents capable of coordinately modulating the activity of a plurality of proteins in single cells. The methods and compositions can be used to determine the protein activation profile of a cell for predicting or diagnosing a disease state, and for monitoring treatment of a disease state. |
| US09115377B2 |
Amycolatopsis sp. strain and methods of using the same for vanillin production
This invention provides an Amycolatopsis sp. strain (zhp06), and a method of using the whole cell preparation of the strain for vanillin production. The strain was deposited in China Center for Type Culture Collection on Jul. 26, 2011 with the number of CCTCC NO: M 2011265. Under high concentrations of ferulic acid substrate, the vanillin production by this method can reach more than 10 g/L. The molar conversion rate of ferulic acid is more than 50% and the purity of vanillin is from 80% to 95%. The advantage of this invention includes: repeated use of biocatalyst cells, mild biotransformation condition, low environmental pollution, short production cycle, high product purity and simple purification procedure. It has a great potential for industrial applications. |
| US09115375B2 |
Methods for enhancing the degradation of cellulosic material with chitin binding proteins
The present invention relates to methods for degrading or converting a cellulosic material and for producing substances from the cellulosic material. |
| US09115372B2 |
Cells expressing modified T cell receptor
This invention provides a cell presenting at least one T cell receptor (TCR) anchored to the membrane by a transmembrane sequence, said TCR comprising an interchain disulfide bond between extracellular constant domain residues which is not present in native TCRs. |
| US09115367B2 |
Stomata-increasing agent, polypeptide, method for increasing number and/or density of stomata in plant, and method for increasing yield of plant
A stomata-increasing agent containing a compound capable of increasing the number and/or density of stomata in a plant, a polypeptide containing the amino acid sequence shown in SEQ ID NO: 6 or a variant thereof, a method for increasing the number and/or density of stomata in a plant and a method for increasing the yield of a plant are provided. |
| US09115362B2 |
Mutant microorganism having high production of cadaverine, and preparation method of cadaverine using same
The present invention relates to a mutant microorganism having a high ability to produce cadaverine, and a method for producing cadaverine using the same. More specifically, the invention relates to a mutant microorganism having a high ability to produce cadaverine wherein a gene involved in the cadaverine degradation or utilization pathway is inactivated or deleted, and to a method for producing cadaverine in high yield by culturing the mutant microorganism under aerobic conditions. The mutant microorganism according to the present invention is useful for producing a high yield of cadaverine which can be widely used in various industrial applications. |
| US09115360B2 |
Methods for treating cancers and pathogen infections using antigen-presenting cells loaded with RNA
Disclosed are cells and methods for treating or preventing tumor formation or infections with pathogens in a patient. The cells of the invention are antigen-presenting cells (e.g., dendritic cells or macrophage) that have been loaded with RNA derived from tumors or pathogens. By administering the RNA-loaded antigen-presenting cells to a patient, tumor formation or pathogen infections can be treated or prevented. Alternatively, the RNA-loaded cells can be used as stimulator cells in the ex vivo expansion of CTL. Such CTL can then be used in a variation of conventional adoptive immunotherapy techniques. |
| US09115359B2 |
Methods for producing secondary metabolites
The invention relates to methods for producing secondary metabolites using transformed Synechocystis sp. bacteria, and secondary metabolites produced by transformed Synechocystis sp. bacteria. The invention further relates to phosphopantetheinyl transferase enzymes. |
| US09115352B2 |
Method for the preparation of a nucleic acid library
The present invention is related to a method for preparing a nucleic acid library comprising a plurality of various elements or nucleic acid molecules that differ in a controlled manner at one or several distinct nucleotide positions. |
| US09115349B2 |
Hydrophobin solution containing antifoam
Aqueous solution containing at least 300 mg/l of hydrophobin and at least 0.3 mg/l of antifoam, wherein the antifoam/hydrophobin weight ratio is below 0.2, preferably below 0.15, more preferably below 0.1. |
| US09115348B2 |
Endoribonuclease compositions and methods of use thereof
The present disclosure provides variant Csy4 endoribonucleases, nucleic acids encoding the variant Csy4 endoribonucleases, and host cells genetically modified with the nucleic acids. The variant Csy4 endoribonucleases find use in a variety of applications, which are also provided. The present disclosure also provides methods of detecting a specific sequence in a target polyribonucleotide; and methods of regulating production of a target RNA in a eukaryotic cell. |
| US09115347B2 |
Methods and compositions for increasing toxin production
The invention provides methods and compositions (such as for example, culture media) for culturing Clostridium difficile and producing the C. difficile Toxins A and B. |
| US09115345B2 |
MicroRNA induction of pluripotential stem cells and uses thereof
Compositions and methods for inducing the formation of an induced pluripotential stem (iPS) cell from a somatic cell are disclosed. The compositions comprise miR 302-367 cluster and valproic acid. Further disclosed are methods for treatment of a disease or condition in a subject through the use of the compositions. |
| US09115343B2 |
Cardiomyocyte differentiation
This invention provides a method for testing a factor for cardiogenicity which comprises differentiating human embryonic stem (hES) cells to cardiomyocytes in the presence and absence of the factor wherein the human embryonic stem (hES) cells are cultured under a serum free condition comprising co-culture in the presence of END-2 cells or serum-free extracellular medium therefrom, and measuring the differentiation in the presence and absence of the factor. This invention also provides a method for identifying a cardiogenic factor, which comprises differentiating human embryonic stem (hES) cells to cardiomyocytes in the presence or absence of the factor wherein the human embryonic stem (hES) cells are cultured under a serum free condition comprising co-culture in the presence of END-2 cells or serum-free extracellular medium therefrom, and identifying the factor that affects the differentiation of human embryonic stem (hES) cells to cardiomyocytes in the presence or absence of the factor. |
| US09115342B2 |
Method for purifying cardiomyocytes or programmed cardiomyocytes derived from stem cells or fetuses
An object of the present invention is to develop a method for purify cardiomyocytes at a high degree of purification and at a high yield from a cell mixture comprising cardiomyocytes derived from fetuses and stem cells using various features which have not been previously expected to be used for purification of cardiomyocytes or which are newly found, wherein said method is carried out without undergoing any genetic modification or without adding any special proteins or biologically active agents. |
| US09115341B2 |
Method for expanding hematopoietic stem cells using heterocyclic compound
An object of the present invention is to expand CD34+ cells ex vivo efficiently in a short term using a biologically safe and inexpensively obtainable low molecular weight compound. A still another object of the present invention is to provide an expansion agent for CD34+ cells useful for treatment of various hematopoietic disorders caused by dysfunctional hematopoietic stem cells and/or hematopoietic progenitor cells.A method for expanding CD34+ cells, which comprises culturing CD34+ cells ex vivo in the presence of a compound represented by the formula (I) (wherein A, B, L1, L2, L3, L4, R1, R2, R3, X and Y are defined in the description), a tautomer or pharmaceutically acceptable salt of the compound or a solvate thereof. |
| US09115338B2 |
Enhancement of beta-carotene content in plants
The present invention relates to a nucleic acid construct having a nucleic acid molecule configured to silence β-carotene hydroxylase expression, and host cells, expression systems, plants, and plant seeds having the nucleic acid construct. The present invention also relates to a method of enhancing beta-carotene content by growing a transgenic plant from a plant or seed transformed with the construct. |
| US09115337B2 |
Chimeric adenoviruses for use in cancer treatment
The present invention relates to oncolytic adenoviruses having therapeutic applications. Recombinant chimeric adenoviruses, and methods to produce them are provided. The chimeric adenoviruses of the invention comprise nucleic acid sequences derived from adenoviral serotypes classified within the subgroups B through F and demonstrate an enhanced therapeutic index. |
| US09115335B2 |
Phosphoric acid esters, their preparation and use
The invention relates to phosphoric acid esters of polyether-modified alkyl alcohols, to their preparation and to a use of phosphoric acid esters of polyether-modified alkyl alcohols for generating shine on a surface. |
| US09115332B2 |
Fractionation of oil-bearing microbial biomass
The invention generally relates to the production of hydrocarbon compositions, such as a lipid, in microorganisms. In particular, the invention provides methods for extracting, recovering, isolating and obtaining a lipid from a microorganism and compositions comprising the lipid. The invention also discloses methods for producing hydrocarbon compositions for use as biodiesel, renewable diesel, jet fuel, and other materials. |
| US09115326B2 |
Monoester-based lubricants and methods of making same
Disclosed herein are monoester-based lubricant compositions and methods of making these monoester-based lubricant compositions. The monoester lubricant compositions comprise an isomeric mixture of at least one monoester species having a carbon number ranging from C8 to C40. In some embodiments, the methods for making the monoester-based lubricants utilize a biomass precursor and/or low value Fischer-Tropsch (FT) olefins and/or alcohols to produce high value monoester-based lubricants. In some embodiments, the monoester-based lubricants are derived from FT olefins and fatty acids. The fatty acids can be from a bio-based source (i.e., biomass, renewable source) or can be derived from FT alcohols via oxidation. |
| US09115325B2 |
Systems and methods for utilizing alcohol fuels
Methods, systems, and devices are disclosed for producing, storing and using alcohol fuels. In one aspect of the disclosed technology, a method to provide a fuel for an engine includes mixing an alcohol with water to produce a wet alcohol, adding a fuel constituent in the wet alcohol to form a liquid fuel, the fuel constituent being soluble in the wet alcohol, and converting, in a container having an interior formed of an armored material, the liquid fuel into a gaseous fuel substance using at least one of heat energy or electrical energy to pressurize the liquid fuel, the gaseous fuel substance exhibiting a higher pressure and lower density than that of the liquid fuel. |
| US09115321B2 |
Gasification device and method
The invention concerns a gasification device for the creation of a flammable gas from a solid, comprising a gasification zone, in which the solid can be filled through a fill opening, an oxidation zone for the oxidation of the resulting gas, which is connected to the gasification zone to conduct the gas created in the gasification zone into the oxidation zone. According to the invention, the efficiency of the gasification device is improved in that the gasification zone is divided into several neighboring gasification sectors, a temperature metering unit is present that is configured to measure the temperature prevailing in each gasification sector, and the temperature metering unit is coupled by signal technology to a control unit, which is coupled to an air supply device by signal technology, that is designed to supply air individually to each gasification sector, and the amount of air supplied to each gasification sector per unit of time is dependent on the temperature measured therein. |
| US09115319B2 |
Additive for naphthenic acid corrosion inhibition and method of using the same
The present invention relates to the field of processing hydrocarbons which causes corrosion in the metal surfaces of processing units. The invention addresses the technical problem of high temperature naphthenic acid corrosion and sulphur corrosion and provides a solution to inhibit these types of corrosion. The three combination compositions are formed by two mixtures separately, with one mixture obtained by mixing compound A, which is obtained by reacting high reactive polyisobutylene (HRPIB) with phosphorous pentasulphide in presence of catalytic amount of sulphur with compound B which is thiophosphorous compound such as phosphorous thioacid ester of Formula (1) and second mixture obtained by mixing compound A with compound C of Formula (2) which is obtained by reacting compound B with ethylene oxide, wherein each of these two mixtures independently provide high corrosion inhibition efficiency in case of high temperature naphthenic acid corrosion inhibition and sulphur corrosion inhibition. The invention is useful in all hydrocarbon processing units, such as, refineries, distillation columns and other petrochemical industries. |
| US09115318B2 |
Hydrocracking process with integral intermediate hydrogen separation and purification
An intermediate hydrogen separation and absorption-based purification system is integrated with a hydrocracking process for the production of relatively lower molecular weight products from a relatively heavy feedstock including sulfur-containing and nitrogen-containing hydrocarbon compounds. The integrated process allows the processing of heavy hydrocarbon feedstock having high nitrogen and high sulfur contents in a single-stage configuration and the using of noble metal catalyst in the hydrocracking reaction zone. The integrated process increases the overall catalytic activity and hydrogenation capability to produce superior distillate products. |
| US09115314B2 |
Process for converting a solid biomass material
A process for converting a solid biomass material, comprising contacting the solid biomass material and a hydrocarbon co-feed with a catalytic cracking catalyst at a temperature of more than 400° C. in a riser reactor to produce one or more cracked products, wherein the solid biomass material is introduced to the riser reactor at a location downstream of the location where the hydrocarbon co-feed is introduced to the riser reactor. |
| US09115311B2 |
Oxide ceramic fluorescent material having rare earth diffused therein
An oxide ceramic fluorescent material is provided comprising a polycrystalline ceramic sintered body of Y3Al5O12, Lu3Al5O12, (Y,Lu)3Al5O12, (Y,Gd)3Al5O12, or Al2O3 in which a rare earth element selected from Ce, Eu and Tb has been diffused from its surface as fluorescent activator. The concentration of the rare earth element is 1 wt % at a depth of 50-600 μm as measured from the sintered body surface and at least 1 wt % at any position nearer to the sintered body surface. |
| US09115310B2 |
Fluorescent material and light emitting device using the same
A fluorescent material and a light emitting device using the same are provided. The fluorescent material has a general formula of ((LumA1-m)zCe1-z)3Q5O12, wherein 0 |
| US09115307B2 |
Soil adherent pellet and active agent delivery with same
A soil adherent pellet is detailed that includes a soluble calcium ion source, a magnesium ion source, or both present in an amount ranging from 15% to 99.9% by weight of a total dry weight of the pellet and a binder present in an amount ranging from 85% to 0.1% by weight of the total dry weight of the pellet. The pellet having a mean pellet domain size and a pellet surface. The soil adherent pellet is well suited for flocculating clay within the soil and delivery of an active ingredient with reduced runoff compared to prior art broadcast particles. A soil adherent pellet is also provided having a soluble calcium and/or magnesium ion source that is polycrystalline and carries therewith an active ingredient. |
| US09115303B2 |
Biologically-derived monoesters as drilling fluids
The present invention is directed to monoester-based drilling fluid compositions and the method of drilling a borehole with said compositions. In some embodiments, the methods for making such monoester-based lubricants utilize a biomass precursor and/or low value Fischer-Tropsch (FT) olefins and/or alcohols so as to produce high value monoester-based drilling fluids. In some embodiments, such monoester-based drilling fluids are derived from FT olefins and fatty acids. The fatty acids can be from a bio-based source (i.e., biomass, renewable source) or can be derived from FT alcohols via oxidation. |
| US09115301B2 |
Lubricating oil composition for chiller
It is to provide a lubricating oil composition for a refrigerating machine that has a low global warming potential by including in a base oil an organic compound having two or more non-conjugated double bonds in the molecule thereof, and that is particularly preferably used for a refrigerating machine using a refrigerant having a particular structure, such as an unsaturated fluorinated hydrocarbon compound, which is a refrigerant capable of being used for existing car air conditioner system, air conditioners and the like, and that has excellent compatibility with the refrigerant and excellent thermal and chemical stability. |
| US09115293B2 |
Non-aqueous room temperature-curing coating material
Provided is a coating material comprising a crosslinker component and a catalyst component, the coating material curing at temperatures of 10 to 80° C., to the use of the coating materials to coat a variety of substrates and to coating compositions comprising coating material. |
| US09115289B2 |
Multibranched bioadhesive compounds and synthetic methods therefor
The invention describes new synthetic medical adhesives and antifouling coatings which exploit the key components of natural marine mussel adhesive proteins. |
| US09115279B2 |
Polypropylene compounds with high impact performance and improved stress whitening resistance
The present invention relates to polypropylene compositions with a balance of high strength, good clarity, excellent stress whitening resistance, and excellent impact properties—especially at low temperatures—for use in demanding plastics applications. Blends consist of both homopolymer and random copolymer polypropylene fractions, as well as propylene-ethylene elastomers and styrenic based elastomers. The invention also covers molded articles made from these blends. |
| US09115276B2 |
Polyolefin composition with low CLTE
The invention relates to novel polyolefin compositions having a low coefficient of thermal expansion (CLTE), high stiffness and high flowability. The novel compositions comprise a heterophasic propylene copolymer, an inorganic filler, an ethylene/alpha-olefin elastomer and at least two different alpha-nucleating agents. |
| US09115274B2 |
Fire and water resistant cable cover
The present invention relates to cable covering compositions (insulation or jacket) for wires and cables that are fire and water resistant. Significantly, the composition contains no significant amount of lead, halogen, and antimony; and is flame retardant (UL 1685 Cable Tray burn test); and has excellent mechanical and water resistance properties. The covering composition contains (a) a polyolefin; (b) a maleic anhydride modified polyolefin; (c) a butadiene-styrene copolymer; (d) a non-halogen flame retardant; and (e) a silane compound. |
| US09115273B2 |
Composition for low smoke, flame retardant, halogen-free, thermoplastic insulation showing good electrical, properties in water
A development of a polyolefin-based composition for manufacturing halogen-free, flame retardant, low smoke emission, thermoplastic insulations for use in electrical conductor cables, applied as insulation, that can be processed at high speed in the equipment used for its application. The composition being a mixture of at least two polyolefin-based polymer resins, which are a first soft and flexible resin and a second and heat-resistance provider resin; at least one compatibilizing and coupling agent; at least one flame retardant; at least one antioxidant; at least one lubricant and optionally at least one nanometric clay. |
| US09115269B2 |
Flame retardant polycarbonate resin composition, flame retardant for polycarbonate resin, and method for producing same
The present invention discloses a polycarbonate resin composition and molded article thereof with excellent flame resistance, no problem with clouding, and excellent haze properties and color tone values. The flame retardant polycarbonate resin composition wherein (B) a metal salt of an organic sulfonic acid and (C) a compound with inclusion capability are contained in (A) a polycarbonate resin, and a flame retardant for a polycarbonate resin comprising an inclusion compound in which (B) a metal salt of an organic sulfonic acid is enclosed by (C) a compound with inclusion capability. |
| US09115268B2 |
Curable silicone rubber composition and measurement method for curable silicone rubber compositions
The correlation between the aggregation structure of inorganic fillers such as silica microparticles in silicone rubbers and tensile strength and tear strength still has not been elucidated. The purpose of the invention is to provide a curable silicone rubber composition with which a silicone rubber of superior tensile strength and tear strength can be obtained. The invention provides a curable silicone rubber composition that is characterized in that the aggregate size of the inorganic filler prior to extending as determined by synchrotron X-ray diffraction measurement is 20-25 nm and the maximum value for the orientation coefficient of the curable silicone rubber composition when drawn as determined by synchrotron X-ray diffraction measurement is 0.25-0.35. |
| US09115263B2 |
Composite materials and method for making high-performance carbon nanotube reinforced polymer composites
Nanocomposite materials and methods of making composite materials reinforced with carbon nanotubes are disclosed. The composite material includes an array of functionalized and aligned carbon nanotubes having a degree of functionalization of about 1% to about 10%; and a polymeric matrix material bonded to the array of functionalized and aligned carbon nanotubes. |
| US09115262B2 |
Complex inorganic colored pigment with reduced elution of hexavalent chromium therefrom
The present invention provides a CICP that maintains high durability and excellent color properties inherent in chromium-containing CICP while allowing a reduced amount of hexavalent chromium elution from the pigment. The CICP with reduced elution of hexavalent chromium therefrom characterized in that the pigment consists of: a pigment component selected from the group consisting of Color Index (C.I.) Pigment Blue 36, C.I. Pigment Green 17, C.I. Pigment Green 51, C.I. Pigment Green 26, C.I. Pigment Yellow 162, C.I. Pigment Yellow 163, C.I. Pigment Red 233, C.I. Pigment Red 235, C.I. Pigment Red 236, C.I. Pigment Red 230, C.I. Pigment Brown 24, C.I. Pigment Brown 33, C.I. Pigment Brown 35, C.I. Pigment Brown 39, C.I. Pigment Brown 40, C.I. Pigment Brown 46, C.I. Pigment Black 27, C.I. Pigment Black 28, C.I. Pigment Brown 29, and C.I. Pigment Black 30; and an additive component in an amount of 0.1 to 5% by weight consisting of an oxide of at least one element selected from the group consisting of phosphorus, boron, tungsten, vanadium, magnesium, lithium and molybdenum. |
| US09115260B2 |
Organo-amine acid gas adsorption-desorption polymers, processes for preparing same, and uses thereof
An adsorption-desorption material, in particular, crosslinked organo-amine polymeric materials having an Mw from about 500 to about 1×106, a total pore volume from about 0.2 cc/g to about 2.0 cc/g, and an adsorption capacity of at least about 0.2 millimoles adsorbed CO2 per gram of adsorption-desorption material, and linear organo-amine polymeric materials having an Mw from about 160 to about 1×106, a total pore volume from about 0.2 cc/g to about 2.0 cc/g, and an adsorption capacity of at least about 0.2 millimoles adsorbed CO2 per gram of adsorption-desorption material. This disclosure also relates to processes for preparing the crosslinked and linear organo-amine materials, as well as to selective removal of CO2 and/or other acid gases from a gaseous stream using the adsorption-desorption materials. |
| US09115259B2 |
Filled poly vinyl chloride composition
The invention relates to a composition containing a particulate solid, plastic material (such as polyvinyl chloride), and a dispersant/agent comprising an oligomer from polymerizing a C7-20 hydroxycarboxylic acid optionally with a C1-6 hydroxycarboxylic acid or its corresponding lactone form. |
| US09115254B2 |
Resin composition, foamed resin using same, and electric wire insulated with foamed resin
There is provided a resin composition for a foamed resin by generating bubbles, the resin composition made of a blend of a base resin and a polymer material other than the base resin, the polymer material dispersed in the base resin, in which: the bubbles are generated at circumference of the dispersed polymer material by infusing a foaming gas into the resin composition at a predetermined processing temperature; and melting point or glass transition temperature of the polymer material is between melting point of the base resin and the processing temperature. |
| US09115253B2 |
Process for the preparation of expandable vinyl aromatic polymers with a reduced thermal conductivity by polymerization in suspension
Process for the preparation of beads of expandable vinyl aromatic polymers by means of polymerization in aqueous suspension, which comprises polymerizing at least one vinyl aromatic monomer in aqueous suspension in the presence of a peroxide initiator system, active at a temperature higher than 800 C, an expanding agent, and in the presence of: —an amide having the general formula R1CONHCH2—CH2NHCOR2 (I) a flame retardant system comprising a brominated additive with a bromine content higher than 30% by weight. |
| US09115252B2 |
PE-based crosslinked elastomeric foam with high filler loadings for making shockpads and articles used in footwear and flooring applications
Crosslinked foams having high filler loadings, which may be formed from A) a polyolefin having a crystallinity of 21 percent or less, an ethylene vinyl acetate copolymer having a vinyl acetate content of less than 15 mole percent, or a combination thereof; B) a polyolefin having a viscosity between 500 and 20,000 cP, as measured using ASTM D1084 (Brookfield Viscosity at 350° F.); and C) a filler, wherein the crosslinked foam includes from 10 to 80 parts filler per hundred parts of components A, B, and C, by weight. In other aspects of embodiments disclosed herein, the crosslinked foam may optionally include one or more of: D) at least one polyolefin having a crystallinity of greater than 21 weight percent, an ethylene vinyl acetate copolymer having a vinyl acetate content of 15 mole percent or greater, or a combination thereof; and E) a scorch retarder. |
| US09115247B2 |
Polyamide, polyamide composition, and method for producing polyamide
The present invention relates to a polyamide obtainable by polymerizing an (a) dicarboxylic acid comprising at least 50 mol % of an alicyclic dicarboxylic acid and a (b) diamine comprising at least 50 mol % of a diamine having a substituent branched from a main chain. |
| US09115244B2 |
Process for forming an aramid copolymer
The invention concerns processes for forming polymer crumb comprising residues of 2-(4-amino phenyl)-5 (6) amino benzimidazole (DAPBI), paraphenylene diamine (PPD), and terephthaloyl dichloride, comprising the steps of: (a) forming a slurry of b mole percent DAPBI and y mole percent PPD in a solvent system comprising organic solvent and c weight percent of an inorganic salt, wherein the inorganic salt is present in an amount of at least 5 weight percent of the organic solvent, DAPBI and PPD being present in an amount sufficient for providing a polymer solution having a weight percent solids of 12 percent or greater on a polymer basis; and (b) contacting the slurry of step a) with a stoichiometric amount of terephthaloyl dichloride to form a product comprising the polymer; wherein the sum of y+b is 100 and the product of b×c is 225 or greater. |
| US09115243B2 |
Organosilicon compound, thermosetting resin composition containing the organosilicon compound, hardening resin and encapsulation material for optical semiconductor
A solution is a liquid organosilicon compound represented by general formula (1) as described below: wherein, X is each independently a group represented by formula (I), formula (II) or formula (III) as described below, and when the number of the group represented by formula (I) per one molecule of the liquid organosilicon compound represented by general formula (1) is defined as a, the number of the group represented by formula (II) per one molecule thereof is defined as b, and the number of the group represented by formula (III) per one molecule thereof is defined as c, 0≦a≦3.5, 0≦b≦3.5, and 0≦c≦1 are obtained, and also a+b+2c=4 is obtained: |
| US09115240B2 |
Color changing polymer films for detecting chemical and biological targets
A sensor system, and a method of detecting a target analyte, comprises a chemically functionalized block copolymer, and a target analyte. The block copolymer exhibits a color change in the visible spectrum upon exposure to the target analyte. |
| US09115237B2 |
Viscosity improver grafted with unsaturated acylating agent and an aryloxyalylkene monoamine
Disclosed is an oil-soluble lubricating oil additive composition, suitable for use as a dispersant viscosity index improver in lubricating oils; prepared by the process which comprises reacting a hydrocarbon polymer having a number average molecular weight (Mn) between about 7,000 and about 500,000 wherein the polymer backbone has been functionalized with an ethylenically unsaturated acylating agent and an aryloxy-alkylene amine. |
| US09115222B2 |
Well defined, highly crosslinked nanoparticles and method for making same
A method is provided for making nanoparticles, including the steps of: combining a hydrocarbon solvent and an aprotic, polar co-solvent, a mono-vinyl aromatic monomer, polymerization initiator, a solution stabilizer, and a first charge of a cross-linking agent. Subsequently, a second charge of cross-linking agent is added. The nanoparticles have an average diameter of 5 nanometers to about 10,000 nanometers. Spherical nanoparticles are also provided that include a cross-linking agent comprising 30% to 60% by weight of the combined weight of a mono-vinyl aromatic species and the cross-linking agent. The spherical nanoparticles also meet the following equation: 0.90≦(D1/D2)≦1.1 wherein D1 is a first diameter of a nanoparticle and D2 is a second diameter of the nanoparticle, and D1 and D2 intersect at right angles. |
| US09115221B2 |
Method for producing polymer particles
A method for producing polymer particles includes a suspension step of suspending a first liquid mixture containing an oily olefin monomer and a radical polymerization initiator in a second liquid mixture containing water, an iodide ion, and an iodine molecule, to prepare a suspension in which an oil droplet containing the oily olefin monomer and the radical polymerization initiator is dispersed in the water containing the iodide ion and the iodine molecule, a synthesis step of synthesizing an iodine compound by allowing a radical generated by cleavage of the radical polymerization initiator to react with the iodine molecule in the oil droplet, and a polymerization step of polymerizing the oily olefin monomer in the oil droplet. |
| US09115216B2 |
Method for producing alkali cellulose comprising removal of cellulose particles
There is provided a method for producing alkali cellulose comprising efficiently removing cellulose particles which are introduced by a pulp and have accumulated in a circulating alkali metal hydroxide solution. More specifically, there is provided a method for producing alkali cellulose, comprising at least the steps of bringing a pulp into contact with an alkali metal hydroxide solution to obtain a contact product, draining the contact product by a drainer, reusing an alkali metal hydroxide solution recovered in the step of draining for contact with a pulp, and adjusting an amount of cellulose particles in the recovered alkali metal hydroxide solution to 0.5% by weight or less prior to reusing for contact with the pulp. |
| US09115215B2 |
Method for completely dissolving and rapidly hydrolyzing cellulose, and uses of said method
The invention discloses a method for completely dissolving and rapidly hydrolyzing cellulose, and uses thereof. Cellulose is placed in an acidic aqueous solution with a [H+] concentration of 10−7˜1 M or an alkaline aqueous solution with a [OH−] concentration of 10−7˜1 M as sample A, wherein the volume ratio of solid to liquid is (0.003˜1.05):1. The acidic aqueous solution with a [H+] concentration of 10−7˜1 M or the alkaline aqueous solution with a [OH−] concentration of 10−7˜1 M is heated up to 261˜352 as sample B. Sample A and sample B obtained from step 1 and step 2 are mixed in a reactor to a concentration of cellulose of 0.1%˜35%, the concentration of the mixed solution is adjusted to an acidity of 10−7˜1 M [H+] or an alkalinity of 10−7˜1 M [OH−], and a water density of 587˜997 kg/m3, pressure is set at 6˜584 MPa. The mixture is rapidly heated up to 261˜352 at heating rate of 7.8˜14.8 /s, and then cellulose is dissolved completely in 0.8˜2 sec and hydrolyzed in 5 sec. Using this technique, it is the first time for achieving complete dissolution and rapid hydrolysis of cellulose at a lower temperature, which not only dramatically reduces the cost of hydrolysis but also improves the safety of production and extends the service life of equipment, thus possessing a good application prospect. |
| US09115213B2 |
Phenotypic reversion of pancreatic carcinoma cells
The present invention provides peptides (including analogs and derivatives thereof) corresponding to residues 96-110 and 35-47 of ras-p21, which peptides have attached thereto a membrane-penetrating leader sequence. The subject peptides, analogs and derivatives thereof are useful in treatment of cancers and have been shown to induce phenotypic reversion of pancreatic cancer cells to non-cancerous cells. Pharmaceutical compositions comprising one or more subject peptides are also provided by the present invention. The present invention further provides replication incompetent Adenovirus (AdV) vectors comprising a promoter sequence and a nucleotide sequence encoding a subject peptide. Methods of treating cancer by administering one or more subject peptides, pharmaceutical compositions, and/or AdV vectors are also provided. |
| US09115209B2 |
Method of treatment of cardiovascular or renal conditions with natriuretic polypeptides with unique pharmacologic profiles
This document provides natriuretic polypeptides. For example, this document provides polypeptides having a natriuretic activity. In some cases, a polypeptide provided herein can have natriuretic activities without inducing excessive hypotension. This document also provides methods and materials for inducing natriuretic activities within a mammal. |
| US09115208B2 |
Dopaminergic neuronal survival-promoting factors and uses thereof
In general, the invention features substantially purified MANF and substantially purified nucleic acids encoding the same. The invention also features a pharmaceutical composition that includes MANF and a pharmaceutically-acceptable excipient, methods for treatment of a neurodegenerative disease, methods for improving dopaminergic neuronal survival during or following cell transplantation, methods for production of neurons for transplantation, and methods for identifying compounds that modulate or mimic MANF's biological activity. |
| US09115207B2 |
Method of inducing an immune response by administering WDRPUH epitope peptides
The present invention provides peptides containing the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NOs: 1, 2, 3, 4, 16, 17, 30, 31, 34, 36, 37, 40, 41, 45, 49, 55, 57 and 61, as well as peptides containing the above-mentioned amino acid sequences in which 1, 2, or several amino acid(s) are substituted, deleted, inserted or added, but still have cytotoxic T cell inducibility. The present invention also provides drugs for treating or preventing tumors, which drugs containing these peptides. The peptides of the present invention can also be used as vaccines. |
| US09115206B2 |
Nucleic acid expression construct and its use as a cell proliferation marker
A nucleic acid expression construct which encodes a fusion protein includes a reporter protein and a protein with a wild-type destruction signal. A sequence encoding the fusion protein is operably linked to a non-endogenous promoter. The fusion protein localizes during a cell cycle progression to subcellular structures selected from a cell cortex, a contractile ring, and a midbody. |
| US09115204B2 |
Spider silk fusion protein structures for binding to an organic target
A protein structure capable of selective interaction with an organic target is provided. The protein structure is a polymer comprising as a repeating structural unit a recombinant fusion protein that is capable of selective interaction with the organic target. The fusion protein is comprising the moieties B, REP and CT, and optionally NT. B is a non-spidroin moiety of more than 30 amino acid residues, which provides the capacity of selective interaction with the organic target. REP is a moiety of from 70 to 300 amino acid residues and is derived from the repetitive fragment of a spider silk protein. CT is a moiety of from 70 to 120 amino acid residues and is derived from the C-terminal fragment of a spider silk protein. NT is an optional moiety of from 100 to 160 amino acid residues and is derived from the N-terminal fragment of a spider silk protein. The fusion protein and protein structure thereof is useful as an affinity medium and a cell scaffold material. |
| US09115203B2 |
Plants with altered root architecture, related constructs and methods involving genes encoding exostosin family polypeptides and homologs thereof
Isolated polynucleotides and polypeptides and recombinant DNA constructs particularly useful for altering root structure of plants, compositions (such as plants or seeds) comprising these recombinant DNA constructs, and methods utilizing these recombinant DNA constructs. The recombinant DNA construct comprises a polynucleotide operably linked to a promoter functional in a plant, wherein said polynucleotide encodes a polypeptide useful for altering plant root architecture. |
| US09115202B2 |
Soluble canola protein isolate production from protein micellar mass
A soluble canola protein isolate is prepared from canola protein micellar mass by solubilizing the protein micellar mass in a calcium salt solution, preferably a calcium chloride solution, followed by dilution of the resulting canola protein solution. Following removal of the precipitate phytic acid, the aqueous canola protein solution is concentrated, optionally diafiltered, and acidified to a pH of about 2.5 to 4.0 to produce an acidified clear canola protein solution, which may be concentrated, subjected to a color removal step and dried. The canola protein isolate so formed is soluble, transparent and heat stable in an acid aqueous environment and also is soluble at natural pH, without precipitation of protein. |
| US09115198B2 |
Antibody modulating the differentiation and function of dendritic cells via binding intercellular adhesion molecule-1 and use thereof
The present invention relates to an antibody binding to human intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1) where the antibody is able to modulate the differentiation status of dendritic cells and prolong the graft survival. In addition, the present invention provides a pharmaceutical composition comprising the antibody, and method of using them for the treatment of disease. |
| US09115196B2 |
Antibodies and immunotoxins that target human glycoprotein NMB
The invention provides high affinity antibodies suitable for forming immunotoxins that inhibit the growth of cells expressing human glycoprotein NMB, including glioblastoma multiforme cells, anaplastic astrocytoma cells, anaplastic oligodendroglioma cells, oligodendroglioma cells, and melanoma cells. The antibodies may be formed in cells transformed with an isolated nucleic acid encoding a polypeptide comprising an antibody heavy chain variable region (“VH”) and an antibody light chain variable region (“VL”). Such nucleic acids are provided. |
| US09115192B2 |
Compositions and methods for treating neoplasia
The invention provides therapeutic methods featuring the use of chimeric human/mouse antibodies for the treatment of neoplasia. |
| US09115185B2 |
Long peptides of 22-45 amino acid residues that induce and/or enhance antigen specific immune responses
The invention is concerned with epitopes derived from human papilloma virus, and peptides having a size of about 22-45 amino acid residues comprising minimal T cell epitopes. The invention further provides clinically relevant approaches for immunizing subjects against (Myco)bacterially and/or virally infected cells or tumor cells, and in particular against HPV. The invention demonstrates that peptide sequences of 22-35 amino acid residues in length can induce both peptide-specific CD8+ cytolytic cells and CD4+ T-helper cells. Moreover, the invention demonstrates that vaccination with 22-35 residue long peptides results in a more vigorous CD8+ cytolytic T-cell response than vaccination with peptides of the exact minimal CTL epitope length. The invention further demonstrates that the intrinsic capacity of certain minimal CTL epitopes which instead of activating cytolytic effector cells tolerize these cytolytic cells, can be overcome by use of these 22-35 amino acid long peptides. The invention further provides clinically relevant approaches for vaccination and/or treatment of subjects against HPV. The invention also provides methods and uses suited to treat subjects suffering from progressive lesions and/or cervical cancer. |
| US09115184B2 |
Light-inducible system for regulating protein stability
Disclosed herein are a light-inducible system and method for rapidly and reversibly modulating protein stability and function. This system and method employs conditionally stable protein domains that regulate the degradation of a fusion protein depending upon the presence or absence of a particular light source. |
| US09115182B2 |
Cysteine cross-linked structural peptides
Compositions and methods are provided using fusion peptides comprising at least one multi-functional solubility tag having an effective number of cross-linkable cysteines residues. The multi-functional peptidic solubility tags facilitate efficient fusion peptide production, easier downstream processing of the fusion peptide, and provide functional surface properties when coupled to a target material while the cross-linkable cysteines provide enhanced durability when binding the fusion peptide to a target material. |
| US09115176B2 |
Compounds, use thereof in cosmetic and cosmeceutic applications, and compositions comprising same
A compound of the formula I: R-A-Gly-His-B (I) wherein: A and B are independently of each other a L-lysine residue, a D-lysine residue, or a L- or D-lysine residue in which the NH2 group of the side chain comprises a modification, where-in said modification is (i) a replacement with a hydrogen, (ii) an acetylation, (iii) a benzoylation, or (iv) a palmitoylation; GIy is a glycine residue; His is a L- or D-histidine residue; R is CH3—(CH2)n—CO—, wherein n=2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7 or 8; R′ is a group of formula (II): N(Z)(Z′) (II) wherein: Z and Z′ is hydrogen, a methyl group, an ethyl group, a phenyl group, an hexyl group, a decyl group or an hexadecyl group; or a racemate, an enantiomer or a diastereomer thereof, or mixtures thereof, or a salt thereof. |
| US09115172B2 |
Methods and compositions for improved F-18 labeling of proteins, peptides and other molecules
The present application discloses compositions and methods of synthesis and use of 18F- or 19F-labeled molecules of use in PET, SPECT and/or MR imaging. Preferably, the 18F or 19F is conjugated to a targeting molecule by formation of a complex with a group IIIA metal and binding of the complex to a bifunctional chelating agent, which may then be directly or indirectly attached to the targeting molecule. In other embodiments, the 18F or 19F labeled moiety may comprise a targetable construct used in combination with a bispecific antibody to target a disease-associated antigen. The disclosed methods and compositions allow the simple and reproducible labeling of molecules at very high efficiency and specific activity in 30 minutes or less. In preferred embodiments, the bifunctional chelating agent bound to 18F- or 19F-metal complex may be conjugated to the molecule to be labeled at a reduced temperature, e.g. room temperature. |
| US09115167B2 |
Multi-targets interfering RNA molecules and their applications
This invention relates to interfering RNA (iRNA) molecules and their applications, especially multi-targets iRNA molecules and their applications. The said multi-targets iRNA molecules comprised of a sense strand annealed onto at least one antisense strand, each strand is at least 30 nucleotides in length, the sense or antisense strand has at least two segments, which can target at least two RNAs of different genes, or can target at least two portions of an RNA, and wherein the iRNA does not induce an interferon-response when transfected into a cell. The iRNA molecule can interfere with the translation procedure post-transcription, and the target gene is inhibited or blocked, the iRNA does not induce an interferon-response in vivo. The RNA molecules are the active ingredient in preparation of the drug which can regulate one or many genes function. |
| US09115166B2 |
Rebaudioside A derivative products and methods for making
Exemplary embodiments of this invention encompass a method for degrading rebaudioside A and the rebaudioside A derivative products derived therefrom. In particular, this invention relates to a method for degrading rebaudioside A compositions to obtain rebaudioside A derivative products suitable for use as sweetener compositions. |
| US09115163B2 |
DNA sequence with non-fluorescent nucleotide reversible terminators and cleavable label modified nucleotide terminators
This invention provides a process for sequencing nucleic acids using 3′ modified deoxynucleotide analogues or 3′ modified deoxyinosine triphosphate analogues, and 3′ modified dideoxynucleotide analogues having a detectable marker attached to a base thereof. |
| US09115158B2 |
Thionating agent
A process for transforming a group >C═O (I) in a compound into a group >C═S (II) or into a tautomeric form of group (II) in a reaction giving a thionated reaction product, by use of crystalline P2S5.2C5H5N as a thionating agent. A thionating agent which is crystalline P2S5.2C5H5N. |
| US09115156B2 |
Biodegradable phosphoester polyamines
Novel biodegradable phosphoester polyamines are disclosed. The biodegradable phosphoester polyamines may be utilized as cross-linkers for sprayable compositions which may be used as tissue adhesives or sealants. |
| US09115154B1 |
Method of preparing tris-(2-chloroethyl)phosphite
The present disclosure discloses a method of preparing tris-(2-chloroethyl)phosphite, comprising: continuously pumping phosphorus trichloride and ethylene oxide into a tubular pre-mixer for pre-mixing, respectively, and starting a refrigerant cooling unit of the microchannel reaction device simultaneously, to obtain a product tris-(2-chloroethyl)phosphite after complete reaction. The method according to the present disclosure not only significantly improves the content of the esterification product, thus increasing the production efficiency by 10 to 100 times than that of an ordinary tank reactor, but also reduces the residence time of the esterification product in the reactor from 110 hours to several minutes. |
| US09115146B2 |
Process for producing isohexides
A process is described for producing an isohexide wherein an hexitol or a combination of hexitols is continuously dehydrated in the presence of an acid catalyst under vacuum using a thin film evaporator. |
| US09115144B2 |
Fused heterocyclic derivative and pharmaceutical use thereof
Compounds useful as agents for the prevention or treatment of a disease associated with abnormal serum uric acid level and the like. Fused heterocyclic derivatives represented by the following formula (I) having xanthine oxidase inhibitory activities and useful as agents for the prevention or treatment of a disease associated with abnormality of serum uric acid level, or prodrugs thereof, or pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof. In the formula (I), ring U represents C6-10 aryl or the like; R1 independently represents a hydrogen atom, a hydroxy group, C1-6 alkyl or the like; m represents an integral number from 1 to 2; ring Q represents 5-membered heteroaryl; n represents an integral number from 1 to 3; R2 independently represents a hydrogen atom, a halogen atom, C1-6 alkyl or the like. |
| US09115143B2 |
Substituted indole derivatives as gamma secretase modulators
The present invention is concerned with novel substituted indole derivatives of Formula (I) wherein R1, R2, R3, A1, A2, A3, Y and X have the meaning defined in the claims. The compounds according to the present invention are useful as gamma secretase modulators. The invention further relates to processes for preparing such novel compounds, pharmaceutical compositions comprising said compounds as an active ingredient as well as the use of said compounds as a medicament. |
| US09115141B2 |
Substituted isoquinolinones and methods of treatment thereof
Substituted isoquinolinone compounds and pharmaceutical compositions that modulate kinase activity, including PI3 kinase activity, and compounds, pharmaceutical compositions, and methods of treatment of diseases and conditions associated with kinase activity, including PI3 kinase activity, are described herein. |
| US09115140B2 |
Thienopyrimidine derivatives, processes for the preparation thereof and therapeutic uses thereof
The present invention relates to compounds of formula (I): wherein R6 is —CONH2 or a —C(Rα)(Rβ)(OH) group; R is a substituted phenyl or heteroaryl group; R7 is an optionally substituted aryl or heteroaryl group. Process for the preparation thereof and therapeutic use thereof. |
| US09115139B2 |
Pyrazinooxazepine derivatives
Provided is a compound having a serotonin 5-HT2c receptor activating action, useful for lower urinary tract conditions, obesity and cancer. A compound represented by the formula (I0): wherein each symbol is as defined in the specification, or a salt thereof. |
| US09115136B2 |
Fused ring compound and use thereof
Provided is a novel compound represented by the following formula wherein each symbol is as defined in the specification, or a salt thereof, which has an angiotensin II receptor antagonistic activity and a peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ agonistic activity, and is useful as an agent for the prophylaxis or treatment of circulatory diseases such as hypertension and the like and/or metabolic diseases such as diabetes and the like, and the like. |
| US09115126B2 |
1H-[1,2,3]triazolo[4,5-c]pyridine-4-carbonitrile derivatives
The invention relates to 1H-[1,2,3]triazolo[4,5-c]pyridine-4-carbonitrile derived Cathepsin S inhibitors of Formula (I), wherein R1 is H or (C1-3)alkyl; R2 is halogen or (C1-4)alkyl, optionally substituted with one or more halogens; n is 1-3; X is O or CH2; U, V and W are CH; or one of U, V and W is N; Y is a group capable of interacting with the Sn . . . S2 substites of the active site of Cathepsin S; or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, to pharmaceutical compositions comprising the same as well as to the use of these derivatives for the preparation of a medicament for the treatment of cathepsin S related diseases such as atherosclerosis, obesity, inflammation and immune disorders, such as rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis, cancer, and chronic pain, such as neuropathic pain. |
| US09115123B2 |
Preventive or therapeutic agent for pain associated with herpes zoster in acute phase
A P2X4 receptor antagonist such as paroxetine, a diazepinedione derivative having the following formula (IX) is used as an agent for preventing or treating zoster-associated pain in acute phase: wherein R1 is hydrogen, a C1-8 alkyl group, or the like; each of R2 and R3 is hydrogen, a C1-8 alkyl group, or the like; each of R4 and R5 is hydrogen or the like; and W is a five-membered or six-membered heterocyclic ring optionally having one or more substituents and comprising one to four nitrogen atoms as the members of the ring. |
| US09115122B2 |
Non-ATP dependent inhibitors of extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK)
A compound, having the formula A-1: Wherein R1 and R2 are defined herein. Methods of using the compound and compositions containing the compound are provided. |
| US09115118B2 |
Process for the resolution of omeprazole
The present invention relates to process for the resolution of omeprazole. The present invention further provides a novel compound of enantiomers of omeprazole cyclic amine salt and a process for preparing it. The present invention also provides a solid of (R)- or (S)-omeprazole cyclic amine salt and a process for preparing it. The present invention also provides a process for the preparation of esomeprazole magnesium dehydrate substantially free of its trihydrate form. The present invention also provides a process for the preparation of recovery of chiral BINOL. |
| US09115116B2 |
Dual action inhibitors against histone deacetylases and 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl coenzyme a reductase
Disclosed herein are novel compounds of formula (I), and uses thereof. The compounds of Formula (I) are inhibitors of histone deacetylases (HDACs) and 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl coenzyme A (HMG-CoA) reductase (HMGR). Also provided are methods of using the compounds of Formula (I) for inhibiting the activity of HDACs and HMGR, treating diseases associated with HDACs or HMGR (e.g., cancer, hypercholesterolemia, an acute or chronic inflammatory disease, autoimmune disease, allergic disease, pathogen infection, neurodegenerative disease, or a disease associated with oxidative stress, |
| US09115115B1 |
Process for the preparation of 3-(3-chloro-1H-pyrazol-1-yl)pyridine
3-(3-chloro-1H-pyrazol-1-yl)pyridine is prepared by cyclizing 3-hydrazinopyridine-•dihydrochloride with a dialkyl maleate to provide an alkyl 5-oxo-2-(pyridin-3-yl)pyrazolidine-3-carboxylate, by chlorinating to provide an alkyl 3-chloro-1-(pyridin-3-yl)-4,5-dihydro-1H-pyrazole-5-carboxylate, by oxidizing to provide an alkyl 3-chloro-1-(pyridin-3-yl)-1H-pyrazole-5-carboxylate, by converting the ester to the carboxylic acid by hydrolysis to provide 3-chloro-1-(pyridin-3-yl)-1H-pyrazole-5-carboxylic acid hydrochloride, and by removing the carboxylic acid by a decarboxylation reaction. |
| US09115104B2 |
Ethylene oxide catalyst with optimized cesium content
The invention is directed to a catalyst useful in the epoxidation of an olefin to an olefin oxide, the catalyst comprising a support having a multimodal pore size distribution comprising a first and a second distribution of pore sizes wherein each distribution of pore sizes possesses a different mean pore size and a different pore size of maximum concentration, the support having a catalytically effective amount of silver, a promoting amount of rhenium, and cesium in an amount up to, but not exceeding 700 ppm disposed thereon. The invention is also directed to methods for using the catalyst for the commercial production of an olefin oxide from olefin and oxygen-containing feed gases. |
| US09115100B2 |
Methods and intermediates for preparing pharmaceutical agents
The invention provides methods and intermediates that are useful for preparing a compound of formula I: and salts thereof. |
| US09115099B2 |
Phenoxazine derivatives and methods of use thereof
The present invention encompasses phenoxazine derivatives and methods of use thereof. |
| US09115098B2 |
1,3-oxazines as BACE1 and/or BACE2 inhibitors
The present invention provides 4-(3-Amino-phenyl)-5,6-dihydro-4H-[1,3]oxazin-2-ylamines of formula I having BACE1 and/or BACE2 inhibitory activity, their manufacture, pharmaceutical compositions containing them and their use as therapeutically active substances. The active compounds of the present invention are useful in the therapeutic and/or prophylactic treatment of e.g. Alzheimer's disease and type 2 diabetes. |
| US09115095B2 |
Phosphinate ruthenium complexes
Provided herein are ruthenium complexes of Formula I, and processes of preparation thereof. Also provided are methods of their use as a metathesis catalyst. |
| US09115090B2 |
Zn2+-chelating motif-tethered short-chain fatty acids as a novel class of histone deacetylase inhibitors
Zn2+-chelating motif-tethered fatty acids as histone deacetylase (HDAC) inhibitors. Compounds performed well in in vitro and in vivo tests. |
| US09115089B2 |
Methyl/fluoro-pyridinyl-methoxy substituted pyridinone-pyridinyl compounds and fluoro-pyrimidinyl-methoxy substituted pyridinone-pyridinyl compounds
The present disclosure provides methyl/fluoro-pyridinyl-methoxy substituted pyridinone-pyridinyl compounds and fluoro-pyrimidinyl-methoxy substituted pyridinone-pyridinyl compounds useful in the treatment of p38 kinase mediated diseases, such as lymphoma and auto-inflammatory disease, including rheumatoid arthritis, having the structure of Formula (I): wherein R1, R2, R3, R4, R5 and X are as defined in the detailed description; pharmaceutical compositions comprising at least one of the compounds; and methods for treating p38 kinase mediated diseases using the compound. |
| US09115088B2 |
Anti-malarial agents
The present invention relates to a novel class of quinolone-4-carboxamide Pf3D7 inhibitors of general formula (I) (Formula (I)) wherein R1, R2, R3, R4, R5, R6, R7, R8 and X are as defined herein, to their use in medicine, and in the treatment of malaria in particular, to compositions containing them, to processes for their preparation and to intermediates used in such processes. |
| US09115085B2 |
Crystalline forms of a prolyl hydroxylase inhibitor
The present disclosure relates to crystalline solid forms of [(4-hydroxy-1-methyl-7-phenoxy-isoquinoline-3-carbonyl)-amino]-acetic acid, the process of preparing the forms, and pharmaceutical compositions and methods of use thereof. |
| US09115081B2 |
Synthetic process for aminocyclohexyl ether compounds
Methods for the preparation of stereoisomerically substantially aminocyclohexyl ether compounds such as trans-(1R,2R)-aminocyclohexyl ether compounds and/or trans-(1S,2S)-aminocyclohexyl ether compounds as well as various intermediates and substrates are disclosed. |
| US09115068B2 |
Processes for producing phenol
Disclosed herein is a process for producing phenol. The process includes oxidizing at least a portion of a feed comprising cyclohexylbenzene to produce an oxidation composition comprising cyclohexyl-1-phenyl-1-hydroperoxide. The oxidation composition may then be cleaved in the presence of an acid catalyst to produce a cleavage reaction mixture comprising the acid catalyst, phenol and cyclohexanone. At least a portion of the cleavage reaction mixture may be neutralized with a basic material to form a treated cleavage reaction mixture. In various embodiments, the treated cleavage reaction mixture contains no greater than 50 wppm of the acid catalyst or no greater than 50 wppm of the basic material. |
| US09115066B2 |
Trisubstituted methyl alcohols and their polymerizable derivatives
Provided herein are trisubstituted methyl alcohols, preferably pH indicators that are substituted with optionally substituted aryl and or optionally substituted heteroaryl groups, and optionally include one or more polymerizable substituents. |
| US09115065B2 |
Sulfonyl semicarbazides, semicarbazides and ureas, pharmaceutical compositions thereof, and methods for treating hemorrhagic fever viruses, including infections associated with Arenaviruses
Compounds, methods and pharmaceutical compositions for treating viral infections, by administering certain novel semicarbazides, sulfonyl carbazides, ureas and related compounds in therapeutically effective amounts are disclosed. Methods for preparing the compounds and methods of using the compounds and pharmaceutical compositions thereof are also disclosed. In particular, the treatment and prophylaxis of viral infections such as caused by hemorrhagic fever viruses is disclosed, i.e., including but not limited to Arenaviridae (Junin, Machupo, Guanavito, Sabia and Lassa), Filoviridae (ebola and Marburg viruses), Flaviviridae (yellow fever, omsk hemorrhagic fever and Kyasanur Forest disease viruses), and Bunyaviridae (Rift Valley fever). |
| US09115060B2 |
Process for producing phenol
In a process for producing phenol, cyclohexylbenzene hydroperoxide is cleaved to produce a cleavage effluent stream comprising phenol and cyclohexanone and at least a portion of the cleavage effluent stream is fractionated to produce a first fraction richer in cyclohexanone than the cleavage effluent stream portion and a second fraction richer in phenol and depleted in cyclohexanone as compared with said cleavage effluent stream portion. At least a portion of the second fraction is then contacted with a dehydrogenation catalyst in a dehydrogenation reaction zone under dehydrogenation conditions effective to convert at least a portion of the cyclohexanone in said second fraction portion into phenol and cyclohexanol. |
| US09115058B2 |
Process of preparation of optically active αaminoacetals
The invention relates to a process for preparing optically active α-aminoacetals by resolution of a racemic mixture or of a mixture of enantiomers via the formation of diastereoisomeric salts, and also novel intermediates in the form of diastereoisomeric salts. |
| US09115057B2 |
Conjugate of arm-type polyethyleneglycol with linear polyethyleneimine as gene carrier and synthesis thereof
Disclosed are a gene carrier in which polyethyleneglycol is conjugated with polyethyleneimine and a method for the synthesis thereof. The gene carrier is useful in transferring DNA, siRNA and negatively charged peptides. |
| US09115056B2 |
Alkynyl phenyl derivative compounds for treating ophthalmic diseases and disorders
Provided are alkynyl phenyl derivative compounds, pharmaceutical compositions thereof, and methods of treating ophthalmic diseases and disorders, such as age-related macular degeneration and Stargardt's Disease, using said compounds and compositions. |
| US09115051B2 |
Method for producing polyamine composition from plant
A method for producing a polyamine composition with high production efficiency that has a low salt concentration includes (1) a step of treating a plant and/or a processed plant product with ethanol; (2) a step of treating the plant and/or the processed plant product with water; (3) a step of treating the plant and/or the processed plant product under an acidic condition; and (4) a step of separating and collecting a liquid fraction. |
| US09115048B2 |
Method and apparatus for purifying nitration products
The present invention relates to a method for removing impurities from nitrated crude products obtained during the nitration of nitratable aromatic compounds, after removal of the final nitrating acid, by treatment with a washing medium, and also to a plant or apparatus suitable for implementing this method. Further provided by the invention is a production plant for the nitration of nitratable aromatic compounds with subsequent purification of the nitrated products. |
| US09115045B2 |
Method and system for producing methanol using an oxygen transport membrane based reforming system
A method and system for producing methanol that employs both an oxygen transport membrane (OTM) based reforming system together with a more traditional steam methane reforming (SMR) and/or autothermal (ATR) synthesis gas production system is disclosed. The dual mode system and method for producing the synthesis gas in a methanol production process optimizes the efficiency and productivity of the methanol plant by using the OTM based reforming system as an independent source of synthesis gas. The disclosed methods and systems are configurable either as a retrofit to existing methanol production facilities or as an integrated package into newly constructed methanol production facilities. |
| US09115044B2 |
Method for producing trans-1-chloro-3,3,3-trifluoropropene
Provided is a method for producing trans-1-chloro-3,3,3-trifluoropropene usable as a raw material for a foaming agent for a hard polyurethane foam, a solvent, a cleaning agent, a cooling medium, a working fluid, a propellant, a fluorinated resin, etc., the method involving a step of bringing cis-1-chloro-3,3,3-trifluoropropene into contact with a catalyst, wherein the catalyst includes a fluorinated metal oxide or a metal fluoride each produced by applying a fluorination treatment to a metal oxide containing one kind or two or more kinds of metals and containing aluminum atoms that make up 50 at. % or more of metal atoms to thereby substitute some or all of oxygen atoms in the metal oxide with fluorine atom(s), wherein the fluorinated metal oxide or the metal fluoride is a compound produced through a drying treatment at 400 to 600° C. |
| US09115042B2 |
Method for preparing 2,3,3,3-tetrafluoropropene
Provided are a fluorination catalyst for preparing 2,3,3,3-tetrafluoropropene and a method using the catalyst for preparing 2,3,3,3-tetrafluoropropene. The catalyst has the following structural formula: Crx(Y,Z)0.005-0.5O0.1-1.0F1.0-3.0, where Y is one or a combination of two or more among Al, Zn, and Mg, and where Z is a rare earth element having an oxygen-storing/releasing function. The catalyst has in preparing 2,3,3,3-tetrafluoropropene the advantages of increased raw material conversion rate, great product selectivity, and extended catalyst service life. |
| US09115040B2 |
Production of isoprene from iso-butanol
The present invention is a process to make isoprene comprising: a) providing a reaction zone comprising an acidic aqueous solution, b) introducing, continuously or intermittently, in said reaction zone a mixture comprising (i) isobutanol and optionally (ii) t-butanol or an iso-butene precursor which is not isobutanol and not t-butanol or iso-butene or any combination of two or three of these (ii) components, an aqueous solution of formaldehyde, c) operating said reaction zone at conditions effective to dehydrate isobutanol and optionally (ii) t-butanol and optionally the iso-butene precursor to iso-butene and produce isoprene by reaction of formaldehyde and iso-butene while distilling away a mixture comprising produced isoprene, water, unreacted starting materials and other low boiling point components from this reaction zone to the outside of the reaction zone. In another embodiment isobutanol provides 10% or more of the iso-butene for the isoprene synthesis.In another embodiment isobutanol provides 20% or more of the iso-butene for the isoprene synthesis.In another embodiment isobutanol provides 30% or more of the iso-butene for the isoprene synthesis.In another embodiment isobutanol provides 40% or more of the iso-butene for the isoprene synthesis.In another embodiment isobutanol provides 50% to 100% of the iso-butene for the isoprene synthesis. |
| US09115039B2 |
Process for the preparation of olefins
Process for the preparation of olefins comprising reacting an oxygenate and/or olefinic feed in a reactor in the presence of a molecular sieve catalyst to form a mixture which comprises olefins and at least partially coked catalyst; passing at least partially coked catalyst to a regenerator; introducing into the regenerator an oxygen-containing gas to regenerate the at least partially coked catalyst, thereby producing a gaseous mixture and at least partially regenerated catalyst; separating at least partially regenerated catalyst and at least part of the gaseous mixture; analysing the composition of the gaseous mixture to control the burning rate of the coke present on the at least partially coked catalyst in the regenerator by adjusting the mass flow rate of the oxygen-containing gas on the basis of the analysis of the gaseous mixture; and passing at least part of the at least partially regenerated catalyst back to the reactor. |
| US09115035B2 |
Pelletized organic fertilizer
An organic fertilizer and method for making the same. The organic fertilizer comprises a slow release nitrogen source, a nitrogen source, a phosphorous source, a potassium source, a chelator, and a binder. The fertilizer is made by mixing the dry ingredients with water to form a wet mixture. Thereafter the wet mixture is extruded through an extruder and cut to form a pellet. The pelletized fertilizer allows the fertilizer to be more accurately applied. |
| US09115029B2 |
Thermal insulating firebrick
An object of the invention is to provide, in porous thermal insulating firebricks formed by molding and drying bubble-containing slurry obtained by foaming slurry containing a fire resistant powder and water, a thermal insulating firebrick superior in thermal insulating property in spite of the same composition and porosity.A porous thermal insulating firebrick formed by molding and drying bubble-containing slurry obtained by foaming slurry containing a fire resistant powder with a heat resistant temperature of 1,000° C. or higher and water has the porosity of 60% or more, and 80% or more volume with respect to a total pore volume of the inside of the thermal insulating firebrick consists of pores having a pore size of 200 μm or less. |
| US09115026B2 |
Cementitious matrix and fiber reinforced cement based mixture
A cementitious matrix in which the development of early strength is fast, the hydration heat temperature is small, and the amount of shrinkage during curing is small, while keeping the fluidity when concrete is fresh, is provided. The cementitious matrix is characterized by comprising 100 parts by weight of Portland cement, 5 to 30 parts by weight of silica fume, 5 to 25 parts by weight of limestone powder, 30 to 80 parts by weight of at least one of ground blast furnace slag or fly ash, at least one chemical admixture, water, and 70 to 150 parts by weight of aggregate having a largest aggregate diameter of 1.2 to 3.5 mm. |
| US09115022B2 |
Process to attach thermal stencils to a glass substrate and permanently etch a mark therein
A high resolution stencil is produced by a thermal printer for the purposes of permanently etching glass for parts identification, tracking and labeling. An improved process to attach the stencil to the glass substrate is defined. An amended aqueous adhesive is used to bind the stencil so that it is in direct contact with the glass at all times and across the entire plane of the stencil and the adhesion is aided by use of a straight-edged tool to help evacuate any potential elements which may hinder the prescribed glass etching compound(s) from completing a clear and precise permanent mark. |
| US09115021B2 |
Neutral grey glass compositions
The present invention relates to a neutral grey glass composition which has a basic composition containing the following main coloring agents: 0.40 to 0.80% of Fe2O3; 0.05 to 2.0% of TiO2; 0.2 to 2.5% of Er2O3; 20 to 200 ppm of CuO; 0.08% to 0 0.1% charcoal; and 15% to 50% of ferrous (redox), in which the glass has light transmission “A” greater than 65%, solar transmission (TS) <55%, and ultraviolet transmission <40%, having color values a*=−4 to 3 and b*=4 to −2. |
| US09115014B1 |
Composition and method for water conditioning
A water conditioning composition includes water; at least one gluconate compound; at least one carbonate compound; a non-ionic preservative; and a phosphate buffer. For example, the composition can include 87-95 wt. % water; 0.5 to 1.5 wt. % gluconate compound; 3 to 8 wt. % carbonate compound; 0.5 to 1.5 wt. % non-ionic preservative; and 0.5 to 2.5 wt. % phosphate buffer. |
| US09115012B2 |
Method of improving the water quality in aquatic ecosystems
A method for improving water quality in aquatic ecosystems is described. An effective amount of Quercus infectoria nut gall powder is added to the ecosystem to prevent excessive proliferation of pathogenic bacterial species thereby improving the health of aquaculture species in the ecosystem. |
| US09115010B2 |
Demineralizer of primary coolant system in pressurized-water reactor power plant and method for purifying primary cooling water in pressurized-water reactor power plant
By using a boric acid-resistant anion exchange resin as the anion exchange resin used in a demineralizer that purifies the primary cooling water in a pressurized-water reactor power plant, even when a boric acid-containing primary cooling water is brought into contact with the anion exchange resin disposed in the demineralizer, the generation of breaking or cracking in the anion exchange resin can be prevented. |
| US09115008B2 |
Method and apparatus for upflow algae scrubber, macroalgal photobioreactor and seaweed cultivator
An apparatus for water filtration, that includes a macroalgal attachment means defining a first macroalgal attachment surface and a bubbling means including, a housing defining a gas inlet and a set of gas bubble ports, and a coupling means. The coupling means secures the macroalgal attachment means to the bubbling means and aligns the first macroalgal attachment surface with the set of gas bubble ports such that a first portion of the gas bubbles to be produced by the gas bubble ports are directed to travel along the first macroalgal attachment surface in contact with the first macroalgal attachment surface. |
| US09115006B2 |
Gas bubble generation for coalescing
A system is provided for introducing gas bubbles (usually air bubbles) into a liquid stream to coalesce material such as unwanted bits, or particles, of hydrocarbons that lie in the liquid stream along with wanted dissolved bits of metal, for removal of the hydrocarbons. The system is constructed to produce a large number of bubbles of an optimum range such as 60 to 100 μm which best coalesce the hydrocarbons. A controller receives the outputs of sensors such as pressure and flow rate sensors (P, F) and uses them to make changes in other parameters such as the pressure of air introduced into the liquid stream and the pressure in a third conduit of the liquid-bubble stream. |
| US09114998B2 |
Methods of fabricating large-area, semiconducting nanoperforated graphene materials
Methods for forming a nanoperforated graphene material are provided. The methods comprise forming an etch mask defining a periodic array of holes over a graphene material and patterning the periodic array of holes into the graphene material. The etch mask comprises a pattern-defining block copolymer layer, and can optionally also comprise a wetting layer and a neutral layer. The nanoperforated graphene material can consist of a single sheet of graphene or a plurality of graphene sheets. |
| US09114986B2 |
Mixing device for a fuel reformer, fuel reformer and method for converting hydrocarbon fuels into hydrogen rich gas
A mixing device for a fuel reformer for mixing at least two fluids is provided. The mixing device includes at least a first plurality of holes which is arranged along a first row, and a second plurality of holes which is arranged along a second row. The mixing device can be used in a fuel reformer for converting hydrocarbon fuel into hydrogen rich gas by auto-thermal reaction process having a, preferably cylindrically shaped and double walled, housing with two side walls forming a reaction chamber of the fuel reformer, wherein hydrocarbon fuel and an oxidizing agent are mixed by the mixing device. |
| US09114973B2 |
Fuel dispenser sump
A sump for a fuel dispenser which allows wiring to pass from beneath the ground vertically upwards through the footprint of the fuel dispenser without compromising a wall of the sump and without providing access to the ground positioned beneath the footprint of the fuel dispenser for a fluid contained within the fuel dispenser, including fuel leaks from the piping contained within the dispenser. In an exemplary embodiment, a sump frame is provided which mates with an open upper portion of the sump which provides access to the sump. The portion of the frame extending over the opening to the sump is generally open, allowing passage of fluids from within the fuel dispenser to the sump. The sump frame further includes a conduit entry frame adapter which extends beyond the perimeter of the sump, but which is positioned within the footprint of the fuel dispenser. A wiring conduit is formed in the conduit entry frame adapter so that wiring may be passed from beneath the footprint of the fuel dispenser vertically upward into the fuel dispenser, without compromising a wall forming the sump. Fluid within the fuel dispenser will fall downwardly either into the sump opening or into contact with the conduit entry frame adapter. In one exemplary embodiment, the conduit entry frame adapter is sloped downwardly toward the sump opening so that fluid contacting the conduit entry frame adapter will flow via gravity into the sump. |
| US09114968B2 |
Grab opener for crown bottle caps
A device for opening bottles and cans that is designed to efficiently engage and remove crown bottle caps through the single motion of grabbing a bottle with one hand, consisting of metal, wood, plastic or other composite material 100, configured as a lever with a ring 103 joined to a finger platform 101 with a rocker 102 opposite an inverted hook 106 with a flat area to seat the bottle cap 104, a tapered point 107, and a magnet 105. |
| US09114966B2 |
Commercial lifting device-jack stand
A jack stand for use with a power unit having a slide forward bridge for positioning by the jack stand; and having a pair of leveling pads with inner roller bearings thereon for engaging an upper lifting plate of the jack stand, and a bottom plate having openings therein for engaging a mobile rack for transporting the jack stands. The jack stand has the bottom plate with a series of telescopic frames extendable therefrom, and the upper lifting plate extending from the upper frame, having side flanges with a rectangular bottom surface thereon for engaging the roller bearing of the power unit. A pair of bumpers are attached to the lowermost vertical frame with one extending forwardly and one extending rearwardly (one of which is always positioned) for engaging the slide forward bridge, as the jack stand is loaded into the power unit. The bottom plate has a pair of rectangular opening therein (one of which is always positioned) for engaging one of a plurality of rectangular fingers, extending from the platform of the mobile rack. |
| US09114959B1 |
Removal tool
A removal system is configured to remove plywood from ground. The removal system includes a gripping assembly that is configured to fit around the plywood. A pressure assembly is attached to the gripping assembly and configured to apply pressure onto the plywood in order to trap the plywood between the pressure assembly and the gripping assembly. A tether is attached to the pressure assembly and configured to provide an upward force on the gripping assembly and a lateral force on the plywood in order to remove the plywood from the ground. |
| US09114954B2 |
Active guiding and balance system for an elevator
An active guiding and balance system that retains the active control of an elevator system in the presence of displacement. This active control may be maintained via the use of an actuator that tailors Lorentz force relative to the level of displacement along a non-linear continuum. |
| US09114951B2 |
Sheet processing apparatus, control method therefor and storage medium
A sheet processing apparatus includes an alignment unit configured to align sheets stacked on a stack tray. The sheet processing apparatus determines whether or not a part of sheets stacked on the stack tray has been removed from the stack tray. When it is determined that a part of sheets stacked on the stack tray has been removed from the stack tray, the sheet processing apparatus inhibits an alignment of the sheets using the alignment unit. |
| US09114948B2 |
Determination device, printing apparatus and determination method
A determination device that determines the mounted state of the roll body on which the medium is wound in a roll shape, includes a roll motor that rotates a rotating member on which the roll body is mounted; a transportation roller that transports the medium fed from the roll body, in a transportation direction; a storage unit that stores information which is capable of specifying a pulling-out direction of the roll body mounted on the rotating member; a sensor that detects a rotation of the transportation roller; and a determination unit that detects whether or not the roll body corresponding to the information is mounted normally. The determination unit determines that the roll body is not mounted normally, in a case where the sensor detects the rotation of the transportation roller is rotating, when the roll motor is rotated in a direction corresponding to the pulling-out direction. |
| US09114947B2 |
Medium supply device
A medium supply device includes a feeding unit that feeds a medium among one or more media placed on a placing table, a separating unit that is arranged to come into pressure-contact with the feeding unit, and a blocking portion that is movable and blocks a space formed between the feeding unit and the separating unit in an upstream side of a nip region in a conveying direction of the medium. When one of the media placed on the placing table is fed by the feeding unit and the one or more media are placed on the placing table, the space is formed by the medium fed by the feeding unit, the separating unit, and the one or more media placed on the placing table. |
| US09114946B2 |
Recording apparatus
Provided is a recording apparatus which includes a recording portion which performs recording on a medium, a transport path which extends to the recording portion, a feeding mechanism which sends the medium to the transport path, a manual feeding path which meets the transport path in such a manner that an extending direction of the manual feeding path changes to intersect the transport path and, a guide portion which is disposed in a meeting portion between the transport path and the manual feeding path. When the medium is sent back by the feeding mechanism, the guide portion does not move and, when the medium is inserted into the manual feeding path, the guide portion moves in a direction in which the guide portion is broadened. |
| US09114939B2 |
Case turner conveying system
A conveying system includes a case turner which selectively reorients selected articles or cases from an orientation to a desired orientation. The case turner includes a primary conveying path and a secondary conveying path which intersects with the primary conveying path. The conveying system may include a plurality of right angle transfer conveyors and an alternative conveying path for reject cases. A right angle transfer conveyor may be configured and controlled to reorient articles to a desired orientation. |
| US09114930B2 |
Compressed natural gas vehicle apparatus and method
Systems and methods for installing a compressed natural gas housing apparatus to a vehicle are disclosed. The housing apparatus is configured to be retrofitted to existing cab liners used on refuse vehicles. The complete installation of the housing apparatus and roof liner are disposed below the roofline of the refuse vehicle. The housing apparatus can be configured to contain a variable number of compressed natural gas tanks. The housing apparatus is installed such that the length of the gas pipeline and electrical wiring connected to the apparatus from the vehicle engine and controller is minimized. The location of housing apparatus provides the additional safety of minimizing the exposure of the gas tanks to falling debris or prevent possible contact with the compressed natural gas tanks being damaged as vehicle travels under bridges, other low objects, or contact in the event of a rollover accident. |
| US09114926B2 |
Dispensing container
A container (101) has a constant wall thickness vessel (102) with a valve (103) crimped on at a neck (104) in the vessel. The valve has a dispensing stem (105). The vessel is circularly cylindrical and formed with an groove (106) extending parallel with the length of the vessel, from a base (107) to the neck (104). When the container is lain on its sidewall (108), it will roll, changing its orientation, until the groove (106) is at the surface as shown in FIG. 7, with the groove in effect floating on the surface of the liquid, providing an indication of the actual quantity of content in the container. |
| US09114925B2 |
Container for elongated articles
A container is provided for holding a predetermined mass of associated elongated cylindrical articles within a cavity. The container includes a bottom wall having a perimeter, a pair of spaced apart side walls extending upwardly from perimeter of the bottom wall, and a pair of spaced apart end walls extending upwardly from the perimeter of the bottom wall between the sidewalls. The container also includes at least one first step extending a height upward from the bottom wall and having a variable length, and at least one second step extending a height upward from the bottom wall and having an approximately fixed length less than the width of the container between the sidewalls. |
| US09114916B2 |
Cover with depressions for closing a container
A lid for closing a container is provided. The lid may be deep-drawn from a plastics material film or produced in an injection-molding method. The lid includes a substantially downwardly directed edge flange for engaging over a thickening that encircles the container's upper edge. The edge flange can be formed to be inclined outwardly at least slightly and is provided with a plurality of inwardly directed projections capable of engaging under the thickening of the container. The lid also comprises a plurality of depressions. The depressions have a depth that is greater towards an interior lid area than towards the edge flange. The depressions have width that is greater towards the interior lid area than towards the edge flange. |
| US09114903B2 |
Squeeze container
A squeeze container includes a container body having flexibility, and a press restriction member that is provided inside the container body and that restricts, from inside the container body, deformation of the container body due to pressing of a side surface of the container body from outside thereof. A content liquid of the container is discharged by pressing the side surface of the container body from outside thereof. The squeeze container has, on the side surface of the container body, measurement scale markings arrayed in the vertical direction. The inner diameter of the container body within an arrayed range in which the measurement scale markings are arrayed in the vertical direction is formed to have a smaller diameter than an upper portion and/or a lower portion of the container body. Further, there is a corresponding relationship between a position, in the vertical direction, on the array of the measurement scale markings and a discharge amount when that position is pressed. |
| US09114895B2 |
Injection molded body having excellent barrier property
A method of providing an oxygen barrier for a product includes placing a product in an injection molded article which includes 10 to 60% by mass of a polyamide resin (A) and 40 to 90% by mass of a mixed polyolefin (E), wherein the polyamide resin (A) includes a diamine unit 70 mol % or more of which is one or more m-xylylenediamine units and a dicarboxylic acid unit 70 mol % or more of which is one or more dicarboxylic acid units including a C4 to C20 α,ω-linear aliphatic dicarboxylic acid and isophthalic acid at a molar ratio of from 30:70 to 100:0, the mixed polyolefin (E) includes 40 to 100% by mass of a polyolefin (C) and 0 to 60% by mass of a modified polyolefin (B), and at least a portion of the polyamide resin (A) is dispersed in a layered state. |
| US09114891B2 |
Multi-purpose electrical coil as a magnetic flux generator, heater or degauss coil
A method and system of using a common set of coils to provide at least two of magnetic flux, heat and degaussing in a mobile platform are provided. In accordance with one embodiment, the method involves oscillation of current in the coils at a frequency higher than a defined pointing requirement to provide heat. In accordance with another aspect, the coil functions as a degausser by energizing the coil with an oscillating current that decreases in amplitude over time. |
| US09114889B2 |
Method and system for monitoring aircraft flight phase on approach to a runway
The method concerns monitoring the approach phase of an aircraft to a runway. This method includes determining successive gateways of the aircraft relative to at least one characteristic point of an approach flight plan of the aircraft or relative to the landing location, and measuring the aircraft speed upon crossing a given gateway. The method further comprises computing a minimum deceleration distance up to a predetermined target speed associated with the gateway following said given gateway, the minimum deceleration distance being an estimated flight distance corresponding to the speed reduction of the aircraft from the measured speed to said target speed; comparing the computed minimum deceleration distance with the distance remaining to be flow to the following gateway; and generating an alert, intended for the aircraft crew, when the distance remaining to be flown to the following gateway is smaller than the computed minimum deceleration distance. |
| US09114879B2 |
Seat table having a controlled, optimised path and it's associated seat
The invention essentially relates to an aeroplane seat base (110) characterized in that said base comprises: a plate (1) suitable for moving along a horizontal path between an extended position and a stored position, a supporting arm (4) of variable length having a first end (4.1) connected to the seat (8) by means of a first hinged joint having a vertical pin and a second end (4.2) connected to the plate (1) by means of a second hinged joint having a vertical pin, and a guide device (121) controlling the path of the plate (1) following a unique path. |
| US09114876B1 |
Quick rope assisted deployment and extraction apparatus
A rapid personnel deployment/extraction rope assisting apparatus for an aircraft includes at least one deployment rope support assembly including a main support member adapted for installation in the aircraft, an assembly arm carried by the main support member and a rope securing mechanism carried by the assembly arm, the rope securing mechanism adapted to secure a rapid personnel deployment/extraction rope/cable to the assembly arm. |
| US09114874B1 |
Aircraft hubcap structure
Aircraft hubcap structure for attachment to a wheel of an airplane wheel and tire assembly includes a dome-shaped hubcap and a bushing attaching the hubcap and the wheel. |
| US09114873B2 |
Cable-cutter device
A device (10) for cutting through cables (6) is provided with a jaw (30) having a top portion (31) and a bottom portion (32) which together define a notch (35). The device (10) is provided with a first and second stationary and co-operating sharp edges (33, 34) arranged at a downstream end (35′) of the notch (35) so as to form an angle between each other. The device further includes a rotary blade (50) provided with a body (51) having a tapering side (52), the body (51) being fastened to one of the portions (31, 32) of the jaw (33) so that the tapering side (52) is arranged in the notch (35) upstream from the first and second sharp edges (33, 34). |
| US09114872B2 |
Method of operating actuators simultaneously for moving aircraft flaps, an aircraft flap drive device, and an aircraft provided with such a device
A method of operating actuators simultaneously for moving at least two aircraft movable aerodynamic surfaces, the method comprising the steps of: controlling the actuators to move the aerodynamic surfaces towards a predetermined position; during the movement, detecting a slowest actuator; and adapting the control of the actuators to match the actions of the slowest actuator. A drive device for aerodynamic surfaces and an aircraft including such a device. |
| US09114870B2 |
Cabin window with planned deformation, method of manufacturing such a window and aircraft comprising such a window
The present invention relates to an aircraft window, of the type including a holding frame for securing the window to the fuselage of an aircraft and at least one pane mounted in the holding frame by a sealing system, the at least one pane having an inner surface and an outer surface, characterized in that: the pane includes, in a first state called the rest state, at least one concavity in its outer surface when there is no pressure difference between the outer surface and the inner surface of the pane, and the at least one concavity of the pane is at least partially eradicated in a second state in which there is a pressure difference between the outer surface and the inner surface of the pane. |
| US09114857B2 |
Easy-up swim handles
Various designs and arrangements of preferably tubular handle members are detachably mounted upon the swim platform of a boat for aiding swimmers to enter and/or exit from the water. In one embodiment the handles have an end, or ends, thereof slidably mountable within a tubular portion of a socket member that is preferably secured in a counter-sunk fashion in the swim platform. In a further embodiment handles are provided with an end lug for detachably mounting the handle to a mounting plate. When not in use, the handle members are slidably detached from the mounting members thereby providing an unencumbered surface on the swim platform. |
| US09114854B2 |
Folding wakeboard tower with cover
A wakeboard tower having a tower leg pivotally mounted to a folding support system, the folding support system including includes an upper support arm, a spring, a lower support arm, and a base member. The tower can be folded between a plurality of positions between an elevated position relative to the boat hull and a lowered position relative to the boat hull. |
| US09114845B2 |
Mobile vehicle
In a mobile vehicle 1A having a front wheel 3f and a rear wheel 3r, the steered wheel 3f can be steered by an actuator 8. A control device 15 controls the actuator 8 so as to stabilize the inclination angle φb in the roll direction of the vehicle body 2 and the steering angle δf of the steered wheel 3f. The control device 15 causes the sensitivity of the steering of the steered wheel 3f to the change in observed value of the inclination angle φb to be changed in accordance with the steering angle of the steered wheel 3f. |
| US09114843B2 |
Collapsible cycle
A collapsible cycle for use by a rider over a terrain surface comprises a frame having front and rear portions and a seat attached to the frame. A front wheel is rotatably attached to a steering member, the front wheel rotatable in a first plane about a primary axis, and the steering member being pivotally attached to the front frame portion for rotation about a secondary axis orthogonal to the primary axis. A user-operable steering mechanism is coupled to the steering member. A rear wheel is rotatably attached to the rear frame portion and rotatable in a third plane about a tertiary axis. A drive mechanism is operatively coupled to the front and/or rear wheel. The cycle is collapsible from an erect riding configuration to a collapsed configuration by repositioning the front and rear wheels into mutually closer proximity. |
| US09114835B1 |
Vehicle front end structure
A vehicle front end structure includes a hinge pillar having laterally spaced first and second vertical mounting surfaces that extend in a longitudinal direction. The vehicle also includes a tubular support member having a first wall secured to the first vertical mounting surface and a second wall secured to the second vertical mounting surface. The second wall extends rearward of the first wall and is secured to the hinge pillar laterally outboard of the first wall. A notched portion through at least one horizontal wall interconnecting the first and second walls of the tubular support may operate as a buckling location of the tubular support. |
| US09114834B2 |
Method and device for parking a motor vehicle
A method and corresponding device for turning at least one steerable wheel of a motor vehicle during parking on a longitudinal inclination of a roadway includes activating a parking brake of the motor vehicle, ascertaining the inclination angle of the vehicle inclination that is effected by the longitudinal inclination of a roadway, and turning the steerable wheel to achieve a wheel angle as a function of at least one specifiable and/or ascertained parameter. The setting of the magnitude of the wheel angle takes place as a function of at least one surroundings situation of the motor vehicle, ascertained using at least one sensor. The corresponding device cooperates with a parking brake, an inclination angle sensor, a steering device, and a surroundings recording device having at least one sensor. |
| US09114832B2 |
Auto-steerable farming system
A steering system for a towable implement includes a steering sensor, an implement steering controller, a steering control valve, a steering cylinder, and an implement steering mechanism that steers the implement. The steering sensor measures, directly or indirectly, the angular position of the steerable wheels of the implement. The implement steering controller processes feedback from the steering sensor and with a desired steering angle, outputs a steering control signal that is input to the steering control valve. The steering control valve controls the flow of hydraulic fluid to the steering cylinder, which, in turn, powers the implement steering mechanism to turn the wheels of the implement. The steering system may be operated in various control modes, such as, a transportation steering mode, a corner and 180 turn steering mode, a swath tracking steering mode, crab steering mode, and a manual steering mode, which allows manual control of the steering system. |
| US09114828B2 |
Telescopic steering apparatus
When adjusting the forward-backward position of a steering wheel, together with reducing any uncomfortable feeling experienced by the driver, a support bracket is prevented from breaking away toward the front due to an extremely large force applied during the adjustment operation. Elastic sleeves 35 are mounted inside the long holes 25a in the forward-backward direction, and an adjustment rod 19a is inserted through the inside of the elastic sleeves 35. Gaps 36 located between the outer circumferential surface of both end portions in the forward-backward direction of the elastic sleeves 35 and the inner circumferential surface of the both end portions in the forward-backward direction of the long holes 25a in the forward-backward direction. When adjusting the forward-backward position the steering wheel, the adjustment rod 19a forcibly displaces toward the end portions in the forward-backward direction of the long holes 25a in the forward-backward direction, and when forcibly colliding with the inner circumferential surface of the end portions in the forward-backward direction of the elastic sleeves 35, the gaps 36 reduce the impact that is applied to the inner circumferential surface of the end portions of the long holes 25a in the forward-backward direction from the adjustment rod 19a by increasing the amount that the end portions of the elastic sleeves 35 elastically deform. |
| US09114820B1 |
Locking calf support mechanism for a folding travel stroller
An adjustable travel stop mechanism for a leg support on a foldable stroller frame. The leg support is moveable between opposing first and second positions wherein folding of the stroller frame moves the leg support to the second position. The user-positionable travel stop interacts with the leg support which is biased toward the first position to limit the extent to which the leg support can move toward the first position when the stroller is unfolded. |
| US09114816B2 |
Method and system for using location information in conjunction with recorded operating information for a railroad train
A method for recording operating information of a railroad train (10) comprising a lead locomotive (14), a remote locomotive (12A), and a trailing locomotive (15). The method comprises recording the operating information of at least one of the railroad train (10) and/or a distributed power communications system onboard the railroad train (10), determining a location of the lead locomotive (14), and including the location in a record of the operating information. |
| US09114813B2 |
Movable support fitting for railroad car
An autorack railroad car has a housing surmounting an underframe. The underframe defines a first or main deck. The housing, or “rack” defines at least one additional deck spaced upwardly from the main deck. The housing has end doors. The end doors may be folding end doors, such as a tri-fold hinged door. When closed, the door may be secured by latches at top and bottom. The car may have a movable sill-step, or foot-hold that is movable between a deployed or extended position, and a stowed or retracted position. The movable step may be mounted to a panel of the door. The movable step may be biased away from any position between the stowed and retracted positions. The movable step may be free of springs that may break, and free of pins or other items requiring careful removal and replacement. The movable parts of the step assembly may be captured by the stationary parts to prevent them from coming loose or falling off. |
| US09114812B2 |
Apparatus and method for controlling a locomotive consist having a locomotive and auxiliary power unit
An apparatus and method for controlling a locomotive assembly having a locomotive and an auxiliary power unit is disclosed. The locomotive assembly includes at least one locomotive having a power bus, a primary engine-generator set electrically coupled to the power bus, and a locomotive controller programmed to control the primary engine-generator set. The locomotive assembly also includes an auxiliary power unit having an auxiliary engine-generator set electrically coupled to a locomotive power bus, and a first auxiliary controller. The auxiliary controller is programmed to receive a command signal from the locomotive controller indicating a desired amount of power, and control the auxiliary engine-generator set of the auxiliary power unit to produce the desired amount of power. |
| US09114802B2 |
Device and method for controlling braking of a motor vehicle
A method for control of braking by a supplementary brake (290-296) of a motor vehicle (100; 110): Choose (s410) supplementary braking by a control device (270). Continuously determine 20) total available supplementary brake torque (Mtot) and determine (s430) by the control device (270) a chosen proportion (Mshare) of total available supplementary brake torque (Mtot). Determine (s440) a supplementary brake torque (Mtot*) corresponding to the chosen proportion share) and apportion (s450) supplementary brake torque determined (Mtot*) to a chosen supplementary brake (290-296). A computer program (P) implements the method. A device controls braking by a supplementary brake (290-296). A motor vehicle (100; 110) is equipped with the device. |
| US09114801B2 |
Method and device for controlling an internal combustion engine
A method for controlling an internal combustion engine of a motor vehicle includes interrupting a fuel supply in an overrun mode of the motor vehicle above a switch-off rotational speed of the internal combustion engine. The fuel supply is switched on again when a starting rotational speed (n1) is reached or undershot. A brake pressure gradient of a brake system of the motor vehicle is detected and the starting rotational speed (n1) is varied as a function of the brake pressure gradient. |
| US09114799B2 |
Brake system for vehicle including continuously variable belt transmission
A brake system is provided for a vehicle equipped with a continuously variable belt transmission (hereafter a “CVT”) having a CVT input shaft and a CVT output shaft. The CVT functions as a clutch-disengagement action for isolating rotation of the CVT output shaft from the CVT input shaft when a rotary speed of the CVT input shaft is reduced to a certain level. The vehicle is equipped with a prime mover driving the CVT input shaft so that an output rotary speed of the prime mover defines the rotary speed of the CVT input shaft. The vehicle includes an accelerator manipulator for controlling the output rotary speed of the prime mover. The brake system can cause a resistance against the rotation of the CVT output shaft using the accelerator manipulator to reduce the output rotary speed of the prime mover to make the CVT function as the clutch-disengagement action. |
| US09114797B2 |
Engine control device
An engine control apparatus includes a first operation member and a second operation member for braking a front wheel and a rear wheel of a saddle-type vehicle, and an engine controller that automatically stops and restarts an engine mounted in the saddle-type vehicle in response to the operational state of the first operation member and the second operation member. When a prescribed amount of time has passed while the first operation member and the second operation member are both in an operated state, the engine controller automatically stops the engine; when the first operation member and the second operation member are both released, the engine controller restarts the engine; and when either one of the first operation member and the second operation member is operated after the engine has automatically been stopped, the engine controller allows the engine to continue in the automatically stopped state. |
| US09114796B2 |
Inlet air temperature sensor diagnostics
Methods and systems are provided for diagnosing an intake air temperature sensor in a hybrid electric vehicle. An engine temperature is compared to each of an intake air temperature sensed before an engine start but after sufficient engine soak, as well as an intake air temperature sensed after selected vehicle operating conditions have elapsed since the engine start. Based on discrepancies between the air temperature and the engine temperature, degradation of the sensor is determined. |
| US09114792B2 |
Method for setting the clamping force exerted by a parking brake
In a method for setting the clamping force exerted by a parking brake, which is generated at least partially by an electromechanical braking device and, if needed, in supplementary fashion by a hydraulic braking device, in the provision of the hydraulic clamping force, a boost pressure to be generated in the hydraulic braking device is increased with respect to a switch-off pressure at the switch-off time that corresponds to the hydraulic clamping force. |
| US09114791B2 |
Electric brake for an aircraft wheel, the brake including an electromechanical actuator fitted with a temperature sensor
An electric brake for an aircraft wheel comprising a support 4 formed by a torsion tube 5 and by an actuator-carrier 6, a stack 7 of disks mounted around the torsion tube 5, electromechanical actuators 8 carried by the actuator-carrier 6, each actuator comprising an electric motor 12 and a pusher 14, the electric motor 12 being adapted to move the pusher 14 facing the stack 7 of disks in order to apply a braking force selectively to the stack 7 of disks; and temperature measurement means for measuring a temperature representative of a temperature that exists in the stack 7 of disks. The temperature measurement means comprises at least one temperature sensor 18 arranged in the pusher 14 of one of the electromechanical actuators 8 so as to be located in the immediate proximity of the stack 7 of disks when the pusher 14 is brought into contact therewith. |
| US09114788B2 |
Manifold joint seal
A pneumatic manifold for a braking system of a railway vehicle includes a first manifold section and a second manifold section, each having an interior surface thereon and a plurality of ports and passageways extending therethrough, and a manifold joint seal for creating a sealing engagement between the first manifold section and the second manifold section. The manifold joint seal is removably mounted inside a slot provided on the surface of one or both manifold sections. The manifold joint seal includes a retainer body having an opening extending therethrough, and two sealing elements are disposed within respective channels provided on opposing surfaces of the retainer body in the axial direction of the annular opening. |
| US09114785B2 |
Brake system with master cylinder, disengaged from the brake pedal, and hydraulic brake booster
Braking system with master cylinder (100), decoupled from the brake pedal and hydraulic brake booster (200), comprising a boost chamber (206) in which the rear of the piston (110) of the master cylinder (100) is inserted, supplied in a controlled manner by a high-pressure unit (300), supplying brake fluid under high pressure on command to the boost chamber in order to act on the piston (110) of the master cylinder (100), and an actuator chamber (209) receiving an actuator piston (220) connected to the control rod (230) of the brake pedal. A controlled hydraulic link (320, 321) connects the boost chamber (206) and the actuator chamber (209) and a further controlled hydraulic link (310, 311) connects the actuator chamber (209) to the chamber of a brake simulator (270). |
| US09114779B2 |
High voltage lithium ion positive electrode material with improved cycle life
A lithiated metal phosphate material substituted by divalent atoms at the M2 site and trivalent atoms, a portion of which are present at both the M2 and the M1 sites. The substituted material has the general formula of Li1-3tM2+1-t-dTt3+Dd2+PO4, wherein M is selected from the group consisting of Mn2+, Co2+, Ni2+ and combinations thereof; T is selected from the group consisting of Fe3+, Al3+ and Ga3+ and a portion of said T resides at the M2 sites, said portion being greater than 0 and no more than 99 percent of the total T atoms; D is selected from the group consisting of Fe2+, Mn2+, Co2+, Ni2+, Mg2+, Zn2+, Ca2+ and combinations thereof; d has a value greater than 0 and no more than 0.3; and t has a value in the range of 0 to 0.3. Also disclosed are electrodes which incorporate the substituted metal phosphate material and are disposed in electrochemical cells as well as batteries, including rechargeable lithium ion batteries. Finally, there is disclosed a method of increasing the life cycle of an electrode by forming the electrode by mixing and dissolving LiH2PO4, Co(OH)2 and FeC2O4.2H2O in HNO3, evaporating the water from this solution to form a solid powder mixture, heating said mixture to around 600° C. under N2 for approximately 12 hours, cooling, ball milling for about 30 minutes the mixture with 0.01-10 wt. % acetylene black; heating the mixture again to around 600° C. under N2 for about an hour and then coating the mixture onto an Al foil substrate to produce a composite electrode. |
| US09114774B2 |
Air bag module comprising an air bag, in particular a side head air bag
An air bag module (10) comprises an air bag (12) including a folded package portion (18) and a mounting portion (20). The package portion (18) has a front side (26) and a rear side (28). The rear side (28) is that side which faces a vehicle part on which the air bag (12) is mounted. Additionally provided are a mounting unit (14) which, with an insertion end (46) thereof, extends through the mounting portion (20) and a protective cover (24) partly enclosing the folded package portion (18). In the mounted state, the mounting portion (20) is located on the rear side (28) of the package portion (18). With its insertion end (46), the mounting unit (14) extends away from the package portion (18). |
| US09114770B2 |
Front fascia or grill support structure and aerodynamic shutter assembly
A fascia support structure and aerodynamic shutter assembly for a vehicle includes a fascia support structure, comprising: a top portion comprising a substantially U-shaped body comprising a top fascia support member, a first side fascia support member and a second side fascia support member, the first side fascia support member having a first side baffle, the second side fascia support member having a second side baffle; and a bottom portion comprising a bottom baffle, the bottom portion attached to the first and second side fascia support members, the top portion and the bottom portion comprising a fascia support structure opening, at least one of the first side baffle, second side baffle or bottom baffle having a seal member disposed on a leading edge. The assembly also includes an aerodynamic shutter system comprising a shutter frame having a shutter frame opening and a plurality of rotatable shutters disposed therein. |
| US09114768B2 |
Vehicle bumper reinforcement
A bumper reinforcement for a vehicle (also simply referred to as a bumper reinforcement, herein below) 10 in FIG. 1 (a)-(c) is arranged on a front side of a vehicle, and FIG. 1(a) is a perspective view, FIG. 1(b) is an enlarged view of a section taken along IB-IB in FIG. 1(a), and FIG. 1(c) is an enlarged view of a section taken along IC-IC in FIG. 1(a). FIG. 2 is a view that also shows the bumper reinforcement 10, and FIG. 2(a) is a plan view seen from above in a state where the bumper reinforcement 10 is arranged in the vehicle, and FIG. 2(b) is a front view seen from a front side of the vehicle. FIG. 3 is a plan view showing a rectangular metal plate material 12, which is a material of the bumper reinforcement 10. In this example, a steel plate for hot press forming is used, which is bent into a given shape by hot press forming, and is given high strength up to tensile strength of 1400 MPa or higher through quench hardening. |
| US09114767B2 |
Bumper back beam for vehicle
A bumper back beam for a vehicle includes an impact part positioned in a center portion, and tower parts formed at rear portions of both sides of the impact part so as to be fixed to crush boxes on the front ends of side members of a vehicle body, and is characterized in that the impact part is formed such that the section of the impact part has an inner space which is open towards the opposite inside portions of a bumper, and a stiffener is received in the inner space, wherein the inner space and the stiffener are formed with a curvature which is smaller than that of the back beam such that clearances are formed at both sides between the inner space and the stiffener. The bumper back beam improves impact resistance and maintains appropriate deformation while preventing damage to the side members, when a bumper is impacted. |
| US09114765B1 |
Direct load side door pillar applique with integrated channel
An applique assembly for a vehicle door includes a body defining an attachment surface with an edge. The body has a margin extension member coupled with the attachment surface inward of the edge that defines a margin channel open toward the edge. The assembly also includes a margin seal having a first portion receivable within the margin channel with a second portion extending inward over and spaced apart from the margin extension member outside the margin channel. |
| US09114764B2 |
Attachment assembly
An attachment assembly includes a molding, a support member, and a clip. The molding assembly includes a molding body and a molding protrusion extending from the molding body. The support member includes a support body and defines a support opening that extends into the support body. The clip includes a first clip arm and a second clip arm coupled to the first clip arm. The first clip arm is disposed in the support opening. The second clip arm is spaced apart from the support body so as to define a clip channel configured to receive the molding protrusion. The clip is configured to couple the molding assembly to the support member when the clip channel receives the molding protrusion. |
| US09114760B2 |
Decorative radome for automotive vehicular applications
A molded radome for the beam path of a radar device with low radio transmission loss and improved resistance to attack by the environmental elements comprises a base layer or body composed of a resin and a decoration layer bearing an image. The decoration layer is characterized with bright metallic looking coat disposed on the surface of the base layer or body. The decoration layer is composed of a metalloid such as germanium or a germanium alloy applied to the base layer by sputtering deposition. |
| US09114753B2 |
Apparatus and method for preventing a vehicle from running out of fuel
An apparatus for use with a motor vehicle to simulate fuel loss to encourage early refueling to prevent stranding. The apparatus may cause stumbling and hesitation by interrupting various engine management systems to simulate low fuel in the tank by cutting either spark or fuel momentarily or applying the brakes. |
| US09114752B2 |
Automotive safety device
An automotive safety device is provided including a housing having a plurality of support members pivotally attached thereto and moveable between a first, closed position and a second, open position. In the second position, the support members allow the device to be freestanding. A first light source is arranged on the housing such that the device may function as an emergency roadside light. The device further includes a tire pressure gauge, including a pressure sensor, a processor, and a display, wherein the processor is configured to output a value on the display indicative of a measured pressure. |
| US09114751B2 |
Universal tower transport stand
A support system (10), including: a spoke connection region (30); a support stand (20) configured to support the spoke connection region (30); and a plurality of spokes (14). Each spoke (14) includes an inner end (34) connectable to a respective spoke connection point disposed in the spoke connection region (30), and each spoke (14) is independently positioned angularly about the respective spoke connection point (30). |
| US09114749B2 |
Multi-purpose utility strap
A fastening device having a body portion made of an elastomeric material. The fastening device further includes first and second ends configured with retainer rings into which various end attachment can be formed. End attachments are further configured to engage each other, to engage holes formed in the body portion of the fastener, or to engage other objects. |
| US09114746B2 |
Vehicle seat
A vehicle seat including a seat structure member, and a fan device installed on the seat structure member is provided. The seat structure member may include a cushion material which configures an outer shape of the seat and supports an occupant, an air flow passage which communicates a seating side of the seat structure member with a surface of the cushion material at a side different from the seating side of the seat structure member, and a cover member which is configured to cover the air flow passage to allow a fan device to feed air to an occupant via the air flow passage. The cushion material and the cover member may be provided with a recess portion which is positioned around the air flow passage, and the cover member is fixed to the surface of the cushion material with an adhesive in the recess portion. |
| US09114745B2 |
Portable video system
A video system attachable to a docking station includes a display capable of displaying video data received from the docking station, and a media player, wherein the video system is capable of operating when removed from the docking station. The video system is capable of connecting to at least one of a battery and an adapter for a power supply. |
| US09114744B2 |
Latchable headrest
A vehicle headrest has at least one generally vertical support rod formed with a vertical row of horizontally open notches, a body vertically slidable along the rod, and a latch element shiftable in the body between a first position engaged in one of the notches and impeding sliding of the body along the rod, a second position offset in one direction from the rod, and a third position offset in another direction from the rod. The latch element travels in a first straight line from the first position to the second position and in a second straight line nonparallel to the first straight line from the first position to the third position. |
| US09114743B2 |
Vehicle seat with internal cushion air bag apparatus, and cushion air bag apparatus
A cushion air bag includes a waist restraining portion that is arranged at a central portion of a cushion panel, and a gas introducing portion that connects this waist restraining portion to an inflator that is provided at a front portion of a cushion panel. This cushion air bag is inflated such that the waist restraining portion reaches a higher height than the gas introducing portion. |
| US09114742B2 |
Vehicle seat
A vehicle seat including: a seat structure member including a seat back and a seat cushion; and a support member configured to support the seat structure member and fastened to a vehicle compartment structural body, wherein the support member is a flat plate member which elongates in a longitudinal direction and has a convex bead portion extending in the longitudinal direction of the support member, wherein the bead portion includes a first bead portion and a second bead portion, and a stress concentrating portion of the support member, to which stress is configured to concentrate when vehicle collision occurs, is interposed between the first bead portion and the second bead portion, and wherein the stress concentrating portion of the support member includes a weakened portion configured to promote breakage of the support member. |
| US09114740B2 |
Trunk located second row seatback dump latch assembly
A latch triggering mechanism for actuating a rear interior row seatback dump including a first generally cylinder shaped module mounted within a trunk of a vehicle, the module including a downwardly extending and displaceable bracket. A latch assembly is secured to a package surface separating the trunk from a passenger interior of the vehicle. A release lever associated with the latch extends in abutting contact with the bracket such that, upon actuating the bracket into contact with the lever, the latch disengages a striker associated with a foldable seatback. |
| US09114726B2 |
Vehicle and method for controlling vehicle
A vehicle includes: a power storage device; a motor generator that generates traveling driving power using electric power from the power storage device; an ECU; and an inclination detecting unit for detecting inclination of a road surface. The ECU performs power changing driving in which the vehicle is traveled while switching the motor generator between a first state and a second state, driving power of a first level being generated in the first state, driving power smaller than the driving power generated in the first state being generated in the second state. When the ECU recognizes, based on the inclination detected by the inclination detecting unit, that the vehicle is traveling on a road surface having a slope, the ECU eases up at least one of an upper limit value and a lower limit value of SOC of the power storage device. |
| US09114725B2 |
Vehicle drive device and method for controlling vehicle drive device
In a method of obtaining a rotation speed of a right wheel (RWr), the method includes: detecting a motor rotation speed detection value (LMa) using a resolver (20A); detecting a wheel rotation speed detection value (LWa) using a wheel speed sensor (13A); obtaining a ring gear rotation speed conversion value (Rb) based on the motor rotation speed detection value (LMa) and the wheel rotation speed detection value (LWa); detecting a motor rotation speed detection value (RMa) using the resolver (20B); obtaining a wheel rotation speed conversion value (RWb) based on the ring gear rotation speed conversion value (Rb) and the motor rotation speed detection value (RMa); detecting a wheel rotation speed detection value (RWa) using a wheel speed sensor (20B); and selecting the wheel rotation speed conversion value (RWb) or the wheel rotation speed detection value (RWa), whichever is greater, as the rotation speed of the right wheel (RWr). |
| US09114724B2 |
Control method of hybrid vehicle
A control method of a vehicle having a motor according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention can include confirming that a speed of the motor is not 0 and an output torque thereof is 0 in a condition that the vehicle is being operated, confirming that a voltage of the motor converges to a regular value, and accumulating control data for the motor and processing the control data to calculate an offset value of a resolver. Accordingly, the control method of a vehicle effectively determines whether the offset of the resolver is to be compensated without affecting the drivability of the vehicle. |
| US09114723B2 |
Hybrid electric vehicle power management system
Level voltage levels/states of charge are maintained among a plurality of high voltage DC electrical storage devices/traction battery packs that are arrayed in series to support operation of a hybrid electric vehicle drive train. Each high voltage DC electrical storage device supports a high voltage power bus, to which at least one controllable load is connected, and at least a first lower voltage level electrical distribution system. The rate of power transfer from the high voltage DC electrical storage devices to the at least first lower voltage electrical distribution system is controlled by DC-DC converters. |
| US09114722B2 |
System and method for calculating and displaying average auxiliary power in a vehicle
A system and method for calculating and displaying average auxiliary power use in a vehicle is provided. The vehicle includes an auxiliary battery for powering auxiliary electrical devices, an auxiliary battery controller, a display for displaying both instantaneous and average auxiliary power consumption, and an electric motor. A main battery powers the electric motor. The auxiliary battery is connected to the main battery via a DC/DC converter. A sensor detects instantaneous auxiliary power usage from each of the auxiliary loads. The vehicle includes a combination meter configured to calculate an average auxiliary power usage amount based on the plurality of instantaneous auxiliary usage amounts. A display operable to display the average auxiliary power usage amount over the predetermined period of time and display each instantaneous auxiliary power usage amount. |
| US09114721B2 |
Electric power information management apparatus, electric power information management system, and electric power information management method
An electric power information management apparatus includes a power meter that measures electric power data on electric power to be supplied from a storage battery of a vehicle to an electric power facility; a security module that associates and encrypts identification information corresponding to the vehicle and the measured electric power data; a communication device that transmits to an electric power management database the identification information corresponding to the vehicle and the electric power data encrypted by the security module to store the electric power data associated with the identification information in the electric power management database; and an electric power control device that extracts necessary electric power from the electric power facility and supplies the electric power to the storage battery of the vehicle corresponding to the identification information, based on the electric power data stored in the electric power management database, being associated with the identification information. |
| US09114719B1 |
Increasing vehicle security
Disclosures herein are related to increasing vehicle security. |
| US09114718B2 |
Moving object, wireless power feeding system, and wireless power feeding method
An object is to provide a moving object structure capable of reducing power loss caused when power is supplied from a power feeding device to a moving object by wireless communication. Another object is to provide a moving object structure capable of reducing the strength of a radio wave radiated to the surroundings. Before power is supplied to a moving object, a radio wave for alignment of antennas is output from a power feeding device. That is, radio waves are output from a power feeding device in two stages. In a first stage, a radio wave is output to align positions of antennas of the power feeding device and the moving object. In a second stage, a radio wave is output to supply power from the power feeding device to the moving object. |
| US09114717B2 |
Electric machine and power supply system having battery pack
A battery pack includes a first receiving antenna including a first inductor and a first capacitor for receiving electric power from a first resonant magnetic field generated by a power supply source, at least one secondary battery charged by the electric power received by the first receiving antenna, an oscillator for producing radio-frequency power by DC power discharged from the secondary battery, and a transferring antenna including a second inductor and a second capacitor for generating a second resonant magnetic field from the radio-frequency power. A primary surface of the first inductor is parallel to a first plane of the battery pack, and a primary surface of the second inductor is parallel to a second plane of the battery pack. The second plane intersects with the first plane at an angle of a range of between 45° and 90° including 45° and 90°. |
| US09114716B2 |
Method and apparatus for high-voltage DC charging of battery-electric and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles
A portable charging device can provide controllable fast DC charging of an electric vehicle (EV) high voltage battery by a separate EV high voltage battery. The charging device can be configured to comply with universal standards for EV charging so as to be compatible with various automobile models of various manufacturers. The device can be configured to establish a communication link with a donor and recipient vehicle and conduct a voltage matching process between the batteries of the two vehicles prior to transferring power to the recipient vehicle battery. To prevent energy theft, control of a charging process can be shared among the charging device and the donor and receiver vehicles. A charger device can be configured to enable a charging process only when no faults are detected. A charger device can allow a motorist to quickly recharge a depleted high voltage battery at a convenient time and location. |
| US09114713B2 |
Energy management device and method for a vehicle
An energy management device includes an energy transfer unit, and a control unit that generates a control signal based at least on a residual electric quantity of each of high power and high energy storage devices of a vehicle, whether the energy transfer unit is coupled to an external energy source, and a position of the vehicle. The energy transfer unit performs, based on the control signal, energy transfer among the external energy source, the high power and high energy storage devices, and at least one energy load of the vehicle. |
| US09114709B2 |
Limited operating strategy for an electric vehicle
A vehicle is provided with a climate control system and a battery that is connected to the climate control system for supplying power. The vehicle also includes at least one controller that is configured to receive input indicative of a battery power limit and a battery state of charge (BSOC). The at least one controller is also configured to disable the climate control system and reduce the battery power limit to an intermediate power limit, when the BSOC is less than a discharge limit. |
| US09114703B1 |
Modular transmission assembly
A modular transmission assembly is disclosed, including a bracket having separate, integrally formed pump and motor mounting areas disposed generally perpendicular to one another, a pump assembly engaged and fastened to the bracket proximate to the pump mounting area, the pump assembly having an end cap secured to a pump housing and having at least two system ports on one side of the end cap, a motor assembly engaged and fastened to the bracket proximate to the motor mounting area, the motor assembly having a front housing with at least two motor system ports and an output shaft and at least two hoses connecting the pump system ports to the motor system parts to form a hydraulic circuit. |