Document Document Title
US09139662B2 Method for producing cellulose nanofibers
Cellulose nanofibers are produced by means of a method comprising a step (A) of oxidizing a cellulosic starting material in the presence of an N-oxyl compound and a step (B) of forming the oxidized cellulosic starting material into nanofibers by defibrating the oxidized cellulosic starting material, and a step (C) of performing at least one selected from the following steps: a step (C-1) of treating the cellulosic starting material in water having a hydroxide ion concentration of 0.75 to 3.75 mol/L prior to performing the step (A); and a step (C-2) of subjecting the oxidized cellulosic starting material obtained from the step (A) to hydrolysis in an alkaline solution having a pH between 8 and 14 after performing the step (A) and prior to performing the step (B).
US09139660B2 Acetylation of cellulose in densified gas
Cellulose acetates and processes for producing same. The process involves esterifying a cellulose containing material in the presence of a densified gas such as supercritical carbon dioxide to form a cellulose acetate product having a degree of substitution less than 3. The cellulose acetate preferably is sulfate-free.
US09139650B2 Fragment of humanized anti-EGFR antibody substituted-lysine variable fragment and use thereof
The purpose of the present invention is to provide fragments of humanized anti-EGFR antibody substituted-lysine light-chain or heavy-chain variable regions, and single-chain antibodies, etc, comprising the same, having sufficient binding activity (affinity) with target cells, and having the ability to undergo various site-specific and uniform chemical modifications. The present invention pertains to a humanized variable region on the light-chain or heavy-chain of antibody 528 against human epidermal cell growth factor receptor 1 (Her-1), said variable region comprising the amino acid sequence represented by SEQ ID NO: 2 or SEQ ID NO: 4, wherein fragments of humanized anti-EGFR antibody lysine-substituted light-chain variable regions are formed by substituting a different amino acid for all of the lysine residues, or all of the lysine residues except for the lysine residue(s) of one specified moiety.
US09139649B2 Humanized anti-CD22 antibody
Disclosed are humanized RFB4 antibodies or antigen-binding fragments thereof. therapy of B-cell associated diseases, such as B-cell malignancies, autoimmune disease and immune dysfunction disease. Preferably, hRFB4 comprises the light and heavy chain RFB4 CDR sequences with human antibody FR and constant region sequences, along with heavy chain framework region (FR) amino acid residues Q1, F27, V48, A49, F68, R98, T117 and light chain residues L4, S22, K39, G100, V104, and K107. More preferably, the heavy and light chain variable region sequences of hRFB4 comprise SEQ ID NO:7 and SEQ ID NO:8, respectively. In certain embodiments, trogocytosis (antigen shaving) induced by hRFB4 plays a significant role in determining antibody efficacy and disease responsiveness for treatment of B-cell diseases, such as hematopoietic cancers, immune system dysfunction and/or autoimmune disease.
US09139646B2 Methods for the treatment of uveitis with IL-1β binding antibodies
Disclosed are methods and materials for inhibiting (e.g., treating or preventing) uveitis in a subject, including treatment refractory uveitis, using anti-IL-1β binding molecules (e.g., IL-1β binding antibodies or binding fragment thereof).
US09139638B2 Mouse model of cholinergic dysfunction to evaluate cognitive enhancers and drugs that improve myasthenia
Recombinant non-human mammals having reduced or no expression of vesicular acetylcholine transporter protein (VAChT) as compared to the corresponding wild-type mammal are provided. The mammal may have, e.g., impaired performance in object and social recognition and/or impaired neuromuscular performance and/or alterations in autonomic nervous system function as compared to the corresponding wild-type mammal. Methods of screening a compound for cholinergic activity or activity in treating a cholinergic neurotransmission disorder are also provided. In addition, a cell such as a nerve cell isolated from a mammal as described herein is provided, along with cell cultures, which are useful in vitro for screening the activity of candidate compounds for their effect on cholinergic neurotransmission, and for their activity in treating cholinergic neurotransmission disorders.
US09139632B2 Method for producing proteins in Pichia pastoris that lack detectable cross binding activity to antibodies against host cell antigens
Methods for producing proteins and glycoproteins in Pichia pastoris that lack detectable cross binding activity to antibodies made against host cell antigens are described. In particular, methods are described wherein recombinant Pichia pastoris strains that do not display a β-mannosyltransferase 2 activity with respect to an N-glycan or O-glycan and do not display at least one activity selected from a β-mannosyltransferase 1, 3, and 4 activity to produce recombinant proteins and glycoproteins. These recombinant Pichia pastoris strains can produce proteins and glycoproteins that lack detectable α-mannosidase resistant β-mannose residues thereon and thus, lack cross binding activity to antibodies against host cell antigens. Further described are methods for producing bi-sialylated human erythropoietin in Pichia pastoris that lack detectable cross binding activity to antibodies against host cell antigens.
US09139631B2 Methods and compositions using FGF23 variant polypeptides with reduced aggregation and cleavage
The present disclosure is directed to methods, kits and compositions for preventing or treating age-related conditions or metabolic disorders. The fusion polypeptides of the disclosure include FGF23 or an active fragment thereof. In one embodiment, the fusion polypeptide comprises (a) a polypeptide comprising fibroblast growth factor 23 (FGF23), or a functionally active variant or derivative thereof, wherein FGF23 has a mutation at one or more of the positions Q156, C206 and C244; and (b) either a modified Fe fragment having decreased affinity for Fc-gamma-receptor and/or increased serum half-life, or a polypeptide comprising at least one extracellular subdomain of a Klotho protein, or a functionally active variant or derivative thereof; and, optionally (c) a linker. In another embodiment, the fusion polypeptide comprises a FGF (such as FGF23), or a functionally active variant or derivative thereof; and a modified Fe fragment, or a functionally active variant or derivative thereof. In various embodiments of the fusion polypeptides, FGF23 has mutations which decrease aggregation and protease-mediated cleavage.
US09139628B2 Polypeptide targeting to mitochondria
Methods for delivering non-mitochondrial proteins to mitochondria are provided. Also provided are nucleic acid constructs comprising a coding sequence encoding a DNA-binding polypeptide, fused to a mitochondrial targeting sequence (MTS) and a nuclear export signal (NES), and the encoded proteins. The construct successfully delivers DNA binding proteins to the mitochondrion. A chimeric methylase based on the above construct is successfully delivered to mitochondria, resulting in modification of mtDNA.
US09139627B2 Biopolymers and processes for making same
A dried distiller soluble based biopolymer, processes for forming the biopolymer, and articles of manufacture thereof. The produced dried distillers solubles derives from co-products of corn fermentation facilities and is comprised in part of water-soluble proteins. A biopolymer consists essentially of dried distillers solubles, and an article of manufacture includes a biopolymer consisting of dried distillers solubles and an optional additive. The process of forming dried distiller solubles involves separating whole stillage into a liquid fraction and a solid fraction, wherein the liquid fraction comprises water soluble proteins in an amount greater than the solid fraction, and wherein the solid fraction has a higher solid content than the liquid fraction. The liquid fraction is sprayed at an elevated temperature to remove at least a portion of moisture in the liquid fraction and form particles and granules of the liquid fraction. Addition moisture is removed from the particles and granules in a fluidized bed to form dried distillers solubles, wherein the particles and granules are heated to a temperature less than 300° F. and have a residence time effective to reduce the moisture content of the dried distillers solubles to less than 20 percent to greater than 3 percent by weight.
US09139626B2 Mitrecin A polypeptide with antimicrobial activity
The present invention provides a Mitrecin A polypeptide useful in prevention and treatment of one or more bacteria. Also provided is a method to kill or prevent growth of one or more bacteria comprising contacting the one or more bacteria with a Mitrecin A polypeptide. The target bacteria can be selected from the group consisting of a Gram-positive bacterium, a Gram-negative bacterium, or both. In one embodiment, the present invention is drawn to a polynucleotide encoding a Mitrecin A polypeptide, a vector comprising the polynucleotide, a host cell comprising the polynucleotide, or a composition comprising the Mitrecin A polypeptide, the polynucleotide, the vector, or the host cell.
US09139619B2 Fusion protein containing a single-stranded DNA binding protein and methods for expression and purification of the same
The present invention provides an expression vector comprising a promoter and a polynucleotide sequence encoding a fusion protein. The present invention further provides a method for purification of an interest protein. The present invention also provides a fusion protein comprising a single-stranded DNA binding protein and an interest protein or polypeptide fused directly or indirectly with the COOH-terminus or NH2-terminus of the single-stranded DNA binding protein, wherein said fusion protein is capable of binding to single-stranded DNA.
US09139618B2 Salmonid alphavirus protein E2
The present invention relates to Salmonid alphavirus E2-protein expressed in a bacterial expression system, its use in medicine, vaccines comprising such protein, methods for the preparation of such proteins and methods for the preparation of vaccines comprising such proteins.
US09139617B2 Method for detecting antibody against SITH-1 in biological sample
The present invention relates to a method for detecting an antibody against a small protein encoded by the intermediate stage transcript of HHV-6 (SITH-1) in a biological sample. The method of the present invention includes the following steps: 1) providing the SITH-1 protein; 2) binding the SITH-1 protein provided in step 1) to a carrier; and 3) contacting the biological sample with the SITH-1 protein-bound carrier prepared in step 2) to detect the SITH-1 protein antibody.
US09139614B2 Modular linkers for conjugation of organic substances to substantially inorganic substances and methods of manufacture and use thereof
A modular linker includes an inorganic binding entity having an affinity for a substantially inorganic substance, and an organic binding entity capable of binding with an organic substance covalently bonded thereto. The modular linker is capable of being stored in a stable condition for later use. The modular linker may be synthesized by modifying the inorganic binding entity to be covalently bonded to an organic binding entity and storing the modular linker in an inert environment from about a day up to at least 1 week. The modular linker may be conjugated to an organic substance and to a substantially inorganic substance in substantially a 1:1 ratio. The modular linker may have more than one organic binding entity covalently bonded to an inorganic binding entity or vice-versa. Also, a particular modular linker may have an organic binding entity capable of binding with a nucleic acid sequence.
US09139613B2 Macrocyclic compounds and methods for their production
There is provided inter alia compounds of formula (I): for use in treatment of viral infection or as an immunosuppressant.
US09139612B2 Active agent prodrugs with heterocyclic linkers
The embodiments provide prodrug compounds of Formulae I-XVII. The present disclosure also provides compositions, and their methods of use, where the compositions comprise a prodrug compound of Formulae I-XVII that provides controlled release of an active agent. Such compositions can optionally provide a trypsin inhibitor that interacts with the enzyme that mediates the controlled release of an active agent from the prodrug so as to attenuate enzymatic cleavage of the prodrug.
US09139610B2 Dark quenchers for donor-acceptor energy transfer
The present invention provides a family of dark quenchers, termed Black Hole Quenchers (“BHQs”), that are efficient quenchers of excited state energy but which are themselves substantially non-fluorescent. Also provided are methods of using the BHQs, probes incorporating the BHQs and methods of using the probes.
US09139607B2 Method of purifying/concentrating sugar chain with sugar chain-trapping molecule and method of analyzing sugar chain structure
The present invention provides substance which can specifically interact with sugar chains. Further, the present invention provides a method for separating, concentrating, or purifying sugar chains or a sugar chain-containing substance in a sample, comprising the steps of: a) contacting a sugar chain-trapping carrier comprising a substance which can specifically interact with sugar chains with the sample in a fluid phase under conditions that the sugar chain-trapping carrier can react with the sugar chains or sugar chain-containing substance; b) isolating a composite of the sugar chain-trapping carrier and the sugar chains or sugar chain-containing substance from the fluid phase; and c) exposing the composite to the conditions that the interaction between the sugar chain-trapping carrier and the sugar chains or sugar chain-containing substance is at least partially eliminated.
US09139598B2 Glucokinase activators
Compounds are provided for use with glucokinase that comprise the formula: wherein the variables are as defined herein. Also provided are pharmaceutical compositions, kits and articles of manufacture comprising such compounds; methods and intermediates useful for making the compounds; and methods of using said compounds.
US09139597B2 Method for the production of ceftobiprole medocaril
The present invention relates to a method for the production of organic compounds, in particular sodium (6R,7R)-7-[(Z)-2-(5-amino-[1,2,4]thiadiazol-3-yl)-2-hydroxyimino-acetylamino]-8-oxo-3-[(E)-(R)-1′-(5-methyl-2-oxo-[1,3]-dioxol-4-ylmethoxycarbonyl)-2-oxo-[1,3′]bipyrrolidinyl-3-ylidenemethyl]-5-thia-1-aza-bicyclo[4.2.0]oct-2-ene-2-carboxylate (ceftobiprole medocaril), and compounds of the general formula (1) and of the general formula (2), the compounds themselves and intermediates in the production according to the invention.
US09139595B2 Biologically active macrolides, compositions, and uses thereof
The present invention provides a compound of the formula (I) or (II), wherein R1 is H, alkyl, alkenyl or aryl, R2 is H, alkyl or aryl, R3 is H, a alkyl, alkenyl or aryl, R4 and R4-R8 are independently R10, C(O)R10 or SO2R10, wherein R10 is H, alkyl, alkenyl or aryl, and R9 is R9a, C(O)R9a or SO2R9a, wherein R9a is H, alkyl, alkenyl or aryl. R9a can be unsubstituted or substituted with one or more oxo(═O), OR9b, OC(O)R9b, OSO2R9b, NHR9b, NHC(O)R9b and NHSO2R9b groups. R9b is H, alkyl, alkenyl, or aryl. R9b can be unsubstituted or substituted with one or more groups such as oxo(═O), OR9c, CO2R9c, CO2R9c and OC(O)R9c. R9c is H, or a unsubstituted or substituted alkyl, alkenyl or aryl. The present invention further provides a composition comprising at least one compound of the present invention and a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier, alone or in combination with at least one additional active agent. The present invention further provides a method of treating a condition treatable by the inhibition of vacuolar-type (H+)-ATPase and a method of treating cancer.
US09139594B2 Fused aminodihydropyrimidone derivatives
A compound represented by the general formula (I) or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or a solvate thereof, wherein Ring A is a C6-14 aryl group or the like, L is —NReCO— or the like (wherein Re is a hydrogen atom or the like), Ring B is a C6-14 aryl group or the like, X is a C1-3 alkylene group or the like, Y is a single bond or the like, Z is a C1-3 alkylene group or the like, R1, R2 and Rx are each independently a hydrogen atom or the like, and R3, R4, R5 and R6 are independently a hydrogen atom, a halogen atom or the like, has an Aβ production inhibitory effect or a BACE1 inhibitory effect and is useful as a prophylactic or therapeutic agent for a neurodegenerative disease caused by Aβ and typified by Alzheimer-type dementia.
US09139592B2 Modulators of Nrf2 and uses thereof
The present invention is directed to a pharmaceutical composition comprising the following compound or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof. The compound is a modulator of Nrf2 protein and binds at least one of the BTB domain, IVR domain and Kelch domain of Keap1 protein, activating or inhibiting Nrf2.
US09139589B2 Heteroaryls and uses thereof
This invention provides compounds of formula IA or IB: wherein R1, R2, G1 and HY are as described in the specification. The compounds are inhibitors of PI3K and/or mTor and are thus useful for treating proliferative, inflammatory, or cardiovascular disorders.
US09139588B2 Method for late introduction of the (8R)-hydroxyl group carbapenem β-lactam antibiotic synthesis
The presently disclosed subject matter demonstrates that ThnG and ThnQ enzymes encoded by the thienamycin gene cluster in Streptomyces cattleya oxidize the C-2 and C-6 moieties of carbapenems, respectively. ThnQ stereospecifically hydroxylates PS-5 giving N-acetyl thienamycin. ThnG catalyzes sequential desaturation and sulfoxidation of PS-5, giving PS-7 and its sulfoxide. The ThnG and ThnQ enzymes are relatively substrate selective, but give rise to the oxidative diversity of carbapenems produced by S. cattleya, and orthologues likely function similarly in allied streptomyces.
US09139584B2 Kinase inhibitors
Compounds of formula (I) and pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof: wherein R2, W, A, Y and R1 are as defined in the specification, are p38 MAPK inhibitors, and are useful as anti-inflammatory agents in the treatment of, inter alia, diseases of the respiratory tract.
US09139581B2 Inhibitors of protein kinases
The present invention is directed to compounds of formula I-II and pharmaceutically acceptable salts, esters, and prodrugs thereof which are inhibitors of syk and/or JAK kinase. The present invention is also directed to intermediates used in making such compounds, the preparation of such a compound, pharmaceutical compositions containing such a compound, methods of inhibition syk and/or JAK kinase activity, methods of inhibition the platelet aggregation, and methods to prevent or treat a number of conditions mediated at least in part by syk and/or JAK kinase activity, such as undesired thrombosis and Non Hodgkin's Lymphoma.
US09139577B2 Sulfoximine substituted quinazolines for pharmaceutical compositions
This invention relates to novel sulfoximine substituted quinazoline derivatives of formula I wherein Ar, R1 and R2 are as defined in the description and claims, and their use as MNK1 (MNK1a or MNK1b) and/or MNK2 (MNK2a or MNK2b) kinase inhibitors, pharmaceutical compositions containing the same, and methods of using the same as agents for treatment or amelioration of MNK1 (MNK1a or MNK1b) and/or MNK2 (MNK2a or MNK2b) mediated disorders.
US09139573B2 Methods and compositions for treating anxiety
Methods of treating a TRPC5 mediated disorder in a subject by administering an effective amount of a TRPC5 antagonist, such as a compound disclosed herein, are described.
US09139568B2 Heterocyclic carboxamides as modulators of kinase activity
The invention provides novel heterocyclic carboxamide compounds according to Formula (I), their manufacture, and use for the treatment of hyperproliferative diseases, such as cancer.
US09139565B2 Histone deacetylase (HDAC) inhibitors targeting prostate tumors and methods of making and using thereof
Compounds of Formula (I), and methods of making and using thereof, are described herein; wherein AR is an aryl group, ZBG is a Zinc Binding Group, and other substituents are as defined herein. The compounds can be administered as a pharmaceutically acceptable salt, prodrug, or solvate. The compounds may be useful to treat and/or prevent hyperproliferative disorders which may include hormone sensitive and hormone refractory prostate cancers. The compounds can be formulated with a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier and, optionally one or more pharmaceutically acceptable excipients, for enteral or parenteral administration.
US09139560B2 Substituted pyrazines as tubulin inhibitors
Compounds of general formula (I), (II), (III) and (V) are described for use in modulating microtubule polymerization and in the treatment of associated disease states. Use of compounds (I), (III) and (V) in the treatment of kinase-associated disease states is also described. Further described are novel compounds of formula (II), (III) and (V).
US09139550B2 Fluorescence dye tagging scheme for mercury quantification and speciation
A fluorescent dye or fluorophore capable of forming complexes with mercury comprises 6,8-difluoro-7-hydroxy-2-oxo-2H-chromene-3-carboxylate amide, wherein the amide is formed by reacting the succinimidyl ester (Pacific Blue™) with an amino acid containing a thiol group, such as cysteine or glutathione. Mercury complexes of the fluorophore fluoresce when excited by a UV or violet laser diode, and the detected intensity can be calibrated to quantify the concentration of mercury in a sample reacted with the fluorophore.
US09139547B2 Multistage process for preparing alkali metal salts of specific 4-hydroxy-2-oxo-2,5-dihydrofuran-3-carboxylic esters
The present invention relates to a multi-stage method for preparing alkali metal salts of specific 4-hydroxy-2-oxo-2,5-dihydrofuran-3-carboxylic esters of the formula (I), in which M and R1 are as defined in the description, which proceeds from malonic ester and does not require isolation of intermediates.
US09139546B2 Tri-aryl/heteroaromatic cannabinoids and use thereof
Cannabinoid derivatives according to formula (I) are disclosed wherein, X, Y, R1, R2, and W can have the definitions provided herein. Without limitation, use of such compounds, their salts or pro-drug, or compositions containing the compounds, salts, or pro-drug, to modify the activity of CB1 and CB2 receptors and treat conditions mediated by these receptors.
US09139538B2 Quinolinyl glucagon receptor modulators
The present invention provides a compound of Formula I or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, wherein R1, R2, R3, A1, A2, A3, B1, B2, B3 and B4 are as defined herein. The compounds of Formula I have been found to act as glucagon antagonists or inverse agonists. Consequently, the compounds of Formula I and the pharmaceutical compositions thereof are useful for the treatment of diseases, disorders, or conditions mediated by glucagon.
US09139534B2 Substituted diaminocarboxamide and diaminocarbonitrile pyrimidines, compositions thereof, and methods of treatment therewith
Provided herein are Diaminopyrimidine Compounds having the following structures: wherein R1, R2, R3, and R4 are as defined herein, compositions comprising an effective amount of a Diaminopyrimidine Compound, and methods for treating or preventing liver fibrotic disorders or a condition treatable or preventable by inhibition of a JNK pathway.
US09139531B2 Ivabradine hydrochloride form IV
Ivabradine hydrochloride Form IV, its pharmaceutical composition, process for its preparation, and its use as therapeutically active ingredient.
US09139530B2 Solid forms of N-[2,4-bis(1,1-dimethylethyl)-5-hydroxyphenyl]-1,4-dihydro-4-oxoquinoline-3-carboxamide
The present invention relates to solid state forms of N-[2,4-bis(1,1-dimethylethyl)-5-hydroxyphenyl]-1,4-dihydro-4-oxoquinoline-3-carboxamide (Compound 1), pharmaceutical compositions thereof and methods therewith.
US09139529B2 Substituted quinoxalines as sodium channel modulators
The invention relates to compounds of formula I or pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof, useful as inhibitors of sodium channels: The invention also provides pharmaceutically acceptable compositions comprising the compounds of the invention and methods of using the compositions in the treatment of various disorders, including pain.
US09139528B2 Substituted quinoline compounds as S-nitrosoglutathione reductase inhibitors
The present invention is directed to novel quinoline compounds useful as S-nitrosoglutathione reductase (GSNOR) inhibitors, pharmaceutical compositions comprising such compounds, and methods of making and using the same.
US09139523B2 5-HT2B receptor antagonists
The present invention relates to novel fluorinated piperidine derivatives having antagonistic activity at the 5-HT2B receptor, pharmaceutical compositions comprising these compounds and their use as a medicine.
US09139522B2 Aromatic amine derivative and organic electroluminescent device using the same
Disclosed is a long-life organic EL device having high luminous efficiency even after storage at high temperatures. Also disclosed is an aromatic amine derivative which enables to realize such an organic EL device. The aromatic amine derivative is represented by the following general formula (1). (In the formula (1), Ar1 is represented by the general formula (2) below, and Ar2 is represented by the general formula (3) below.)
US09139521B2 Polymorphs of azabicyclohexane
The invention provides polymorphic crystalline forms of acid addition salts of (+)-1-(3,4-dichlorophenyl)-3-azabicyclo[3.1.0]hexane designated as polymorph form A, polymorph form B and polymorph form C, where polymorph form A is more thermodynamically stable than the other forms, methods for preparing and using such polymorph forms and pharmaceutical compositions containing such polymorph forms.
US09139519B2 Organonitro thioether compounds and medical uses thereof
The invention provides organonitro thioether compounds, compositions containing such compounds, isolated organonitro thioether compounds and methods for using such compounds and compositions to treat cancer in a patient. Exemplary organonitro thioether compounds described herein include 2-(3,3-dinitroazetidin-1-yl)-2-oxoethyl thioethers and variants thereof. Another aspect of the invention provides a pharmaceutical composition, comprising a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier and an organonitro thioether compound described herein, such as a compound of Formula I or II. Another aspect of the invention provides a method of treating cancer in a patient. The method comprises administering to a patient in need thereof a therapeutically effective amount of an organonitro thioether compound described herein, such as a compound of Formula I or II, to treat the cancer.
US09139516B2 Fatty acid acetylated salicylates and their uses
The invention relates to Fatty Acid Acetylated Salicylate Derivatives; compositions comprising an effective amount of a Fatty Acid Acetylated Salicylate Derivative; and methods for treating or preventing an inflammatory disorder comprising the administration of an effective amount of a Fatty Acid Acetylated Salicylate Derivative.
US09139512B2 Absorbent solution containing a degradation inhibitor derived from a triazole or from a tetrazole and method of absorbing acid compounds contained in a gaseous effluent
The degradation of an absorbent solution comprising organic compounds with an amine functional group in aqueous solution is substantially reduced in the presence of a small amount of degradation inhibiting agents belonging to the family of derivatives of triazoles or of a tetrazole at least one substituent of which contains a sulfur atom. The absorbent solution is used to deacidize a gaseous effluent.
US09139509B2 Removal of non-aromatic impurities from a nitration process
A method and apparatus for removing non-aromatic impurities from non-nitrated aromatic reactant in a nitration production process, in which process an aromatic reactant is nitrated (100) to produce a nitrated aromatic product using a molar excess of the aromatic reactant, and non-nitrated aromatic reactant is recovered (102) from the produced nitrated aromatic product and is recycled (104) for use in the nitration production process. A portion of the removed excess non-nitrated aromatic reactant is diverted (106) and subjected to nitration (108). The nitrated stream may be further processed by separating out the spent acids (110) and the non-aromatic impurities (116). These streams may be sent (114, 118) to a suitable location in the nitration production train.
US09139507B2 Process for the preparation of alkyl 3-difluoromethyl-1-methyl-1H-pyrazole-4-carboxylate and its analogs
The disclosure provides a process for the preparation of alkyl 3-difluoromethyl-1-methyl-1H-pyrazole-4-caboxylate and its analogs. The process includes a reaction workup method for Claisen condensation, wherein the enolate salt is acidified after removing remaining starting material and byproducts such as, ethanol and excessive ethyl acetate. The process also includes a method for completely drying alkyl difluoroacetoacetate and its analogs before use in the next step by reacting trialkyl orthoformate with the residual water. The process includes using Na2CO3 and/or K2CO3 to promote the ring-closure reaction to produce the alkyl 3-difluoromethyl-1-methyl-1H-pyrazole-4-carboxylate. The process also includes effectively removing the regioisomer, alkyl 3-difluoromethyl-2-methyl-1H-pyrazole-4-caboxylate formed as a byproduct of the ring closure by a precipitation in a mixed solvent system and thereby eliminating the need for recrystallization of the final product.
US09139504B2 Lanolin substitute, production method thereof and applications of same
This invention proposes a lanolin substitute, capable of absorbing up to at least twice its weight of water or aqueous solution or aqueous suspension. It forms true emulsions, stable over time with a capacity for water absorption superior to that of lanolin.It also possesses the known emollient, moisturizing and occlusive properties of lanolin.This substitute is usable in all the present and future areas of application of lanolin: in the cosmetics industry, dermatology, and in industrial applications (polishes, lubricants . . . ).It is obtained by hemi-synthesis from a mixture of unsaturated fatty acids, esters of unsaturated fatty acids, unsaturated hydrocarbons or unsaturated derivatives of the latter and compounds comprising or generating hydroxyl functions, such as glycerol, preferably without a catalyst and in an atmosphere devoid of oxygen.Classical thermal treatment or preferably treatment by dielectric heating.
US09139503B2 Method for the production of dimethyl ether
A process for the production of dialkyl ether, the process including: feeding a stream comprising an alkyl alcohol to a distillation column reactor system; concurrently in the distillation column reactor system: i) contacting the alkyl alcohol with a catalytic distillation structure in a distillation reaction zone thereby catalytically reacting at least a portion of the alkyl alcohol to form a corresponding dialkyl ether and water; and ii) fractionating the resulting dialkyl ether from the water; operating the distillation column reactor system to obtain substantially complete conversion of the alkyl alcohol to form the corresponding dialkyl ether and water; recovering the dialkyl ether from the distillation column reactor as an overheads fraction; recovering the water from the distillation column reactor as a bottoms fraction.
US09139502B2 Use of an urushiol compound in preparation of pharmaceutical compositions for inhibiting Smad3 phosphorylation
The invention relates to a use of an urushiol compound (code named GQ-5) in preparation of pharmaceutical compositions for inhibiting Smad3 phosphorylation. We verify that GQ-5 inhibited the interaction of Smad3 with TGF-β type I receptor (TβRI), inhibited subsequent phosphorylation of Smad3, reduced nuclear translocation of Smads complex, and suppressed the transcription of major fibrotic genes such as α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA), collagen I and fibronectin. Therefore, GQ-5 could be a potent and selective inhibitor of TGF-β1-induced Smad3 phosphorylation, and be used to prepare pharmaceutical compositions for inhibiting Smad3 phosphorylation.
US09139495B2 Methods of making chlorinated hydrocarbons
Methods for the manufacture of 1,1,1,2,3-pentachloropropane from 1,1,1,3-tetrachloropropane and chlorine are disclosed. Improved methods are provided for the manufacture of 1,1,2,3-tetrachloropropene from 1,1,1,2,3-pentachloropropane. Methods are also disclosed for the manufacture of 1,1,2,3-tetrachloropropene from 1,1,1,3-tetrachloropropane and chlorine and for the manufacture of 1,1,2,3-tetrachloropropene from carbon tetrachloride, ethylene, and chlorine.
US09139490B2 Process for the production of light olefins from synthesis gas
A new process for light-olefins production is disclosed. The process comprises the step of contacting syngas with a iron-based catalyst at a temperature in the range from 250° C. to 350° C. and at a pressure in the range from 10 bar to 40 bar. By so doing a production of light olefins with a selectivity of at least 80% is obtained.
US09139488B2 Sublimation method for the purification of organic small molecules
Disclosed is an improved sublimation method for the purification of organic small molecules. The new method features that barriers are applied in the collection region of sublimation tube so that the gas flow path is modified to pass through or bypass the barriers from the heating region to the vacuum pump. The arrangement of the barriers can effectively separate the main product from the impurities. The main product is enriched in a collection region, while the volatile impurities are enriched in an impurity region. This method has been proved to improve the quality of sublimed materials substantially according to the purity measurements and OLED performance tests.
US09139486B2 Method and device for decommissioning bodies containing explosive material
Method for decommissioning a body containing explosive material includes opening the body containing explosive material in a secured and/or currentless state, and cutting individual bodies along a cutting plane into at least two parts in a liquid by one or more cutting processes to expose the main charge carriers intact in the respective individual bodies for removal without destruction. Method further includes removing main charge carrier essentially intact while still in the liquid from the individual bodies, and transferring the main charge carrier to a container, structured and arranged to store each individual main charge carrier free from contact with other main charge carriers, and which includes a material that is absorbent for liquids. Method further includes feeding the container with the main charge carriers to an incineration process and grinding all of the other parts of the individual bodies in a grinding process to produce ground material.
US09139485B2 Plant treatment agent
The present invention provides a slow release granule composition for the delivery of one or more plant treatment agents. The composition comprises an organic solution consisting peat soil liquid obtained from a peat material and urea. The granule composition is useful for the controlled delivery of fertilizers and nutrients to plants and as a soil amendment. Also disclosed is a method of treating a plant with a plant treatment agent, comprising applying a slow release granule composition of the present invention and a method to prepare the slow release granule composition.
US09139482B2 Particlized biotic soil amendment
A particlized biotic soil amendment product for preparing a damaged or degraded soil ecosystem to establish a self-sustaining floral/vegetative rhizosphere contains a mixture of inorganic “mineral” material, organic material, charcoal, and small amounts of inoculants to promote the growth of beneficial microorganisms including mycorrhizal fungi and nitrogen-fixing bacteria. These ingredients are prilled to form roughly uniform, spherical, ovoid, capsular or other-shaped particles suitable for handling with prior-art agricultural machines. The prilling should produce particles that are resilient enough to survive standard shipping, handling and application procedures, but thereafter break down under irrigation and weathering so as to release their ingredients for use by plants in the vicinity.
US09139481B2 Anhydrous ammonia supplemented with agricultural actives
Agriculturally useful compositions comprise individual quantities of anhydrous ammonia, ammonia solution, and one or more agricultural actives different than anhydrous ammonia. The compositions may include polyanionic polymers, fertilizers, and/or biocidal agents. Preferably, the compositions are created in pressurized tanks and are applied in the same fashion as anhydrous ammonia.
US09139476B2 Compositions and methods for well completions
Cement retarders for well cements are based on hydrophobins. Hydrophobins are proteins or polypeptides that form hydrophobic coatings on surfaces. The size of the hydrophobins is preferably between about 100 and 350 amino acids, and the preferred hydrophobin concentration is between about 0.001% and 1.0% by weight of cement. Portland cement is the preferred well cement. Cement slurries containing hydrophobins are useful for both primary and remedial cementing applications.
US09139475B2 Grout for filling a micro-trench
A grout for filing a micro-trench formed in the ground includes comprises Class F fly ash in a range of approximately 0 to 30% by weight of grout and cement kiln dust in a range of approximately 50 to 90% by weight of grout.
US09139474B2 Shrinkage-reducing agent for hydraulic material and shrinkage-reducing agent composition for hydraulic material
Provided are a shrinkage-reducing agent for a hydraulic material and a shrinkage-reducing agent composition for a hydraulic material including a compound represented by the general formula (1): R1—[O-(A1O)m—R2]n (1), where: R1 represents R1 derived from a polyhydric alcohol represented by R1—[OH]n; A1O represents an oxyalkylene group having 2 to 18 carbon atoms; R2 represents a hydrogen atom or a hydrocarbon group having 1 to 30 carbon atoms; m represents an average added mole number of oxyalkylene groups A1O's; n represents 3 or 4; and when n equals 3, m represents 30 to 150, and when n equals 4, m represents 5 to 150.
US09139472B2 Methods and compositions using calcium carbonate and stabilizer
Provided herein are compositions, methods, and systems for a material containing metastable carbonate and stabilizer. Methods for making the compositions and using the compositions are also provided.
US09139471B2 Method for manufacturing foam material using molten slag
A method for manufacturing a foam material by using a molten slag includes: introducing the molten slag maintained at 1400° C.-1500° C. into a pool for preserving heat, and adding a viscosity modifier and/or a color modifier to the molten slag to adjust a viscosity and/or a color a product manufactured. The molten slag is discharged into a foaming pour while adding a foaming agent to the molten slag, while controlling the foam and mold at 1250° C.-1400° C. The foamed and molded slag is maintained at 800° C.-1000° C. for 20-30 minutes in a non-reducing atmosphere, and then naturally cooled to a room temperature to obtain the foam material. The produced inorganic nonmetal foam material and products thereof have such characteristics as stable color quality, abrasion resistance, pressure resistance, small thermal conductivity, small shrinkage ratio, and excellent sound absorption, adsorption and filtering performances.
US09139470B2 Chemical process for obtaining glass with a total or partial satin/matte finish comprising immersion in an acid solution, for simultaneous and continuous production
The invention relates to a chemical process for obtaining glass with a total or partial satin/matte finish, comprising immersion in an acid solution, for the simultaneous and continuous production of one or more parts and/or sheets of glass having standard, special or variable dimensions, thicknesses, colours, uses and applications. The inventive process can be used to obtain glass with a total or partial satin/matte finish in a simultaneous and continuous manner either on one or both sides of the glass (atmospheric side and tinned side) or of several glass sheets and/or parts at the same time, with different thicknesses, measurements, colours, uses, specifications and characteristics, said process being performed simultaneously by means of immersion. According to the invention, containers of glass sheets are immersed in containers of chemical solutions using a variable-speed transport immersion crane. The aforementioned containers are encapsulated such that the process can be controlled fully (safety, quality and environment). The inventive system also comprises a drying chamber. The purpose of the process is to enable the versatile, cost-effective, efficient, productive production of a glass with a total or partial satin/matte finish, having the above-mentioned characteristics and using different types of glass, with improved quality on one or both sides thereof, while guaranteeing full physical and environmental safety, since each of the operations in the process is fully and safely controlled.
US09139467B2 Low brillouin scattering optical fibers and formation methods thereof
Disclosed is an optical fiber formed from a preform that includes a clad component and a core component. The core component includes one or more precursor core materials. The precursor core materials and the clad materials are selected such that that the photoelastic constants of at least one precursor core material and the clad material are of opposite sign resulting in a final glass optical fiber of tailored Brillouin performance. The clad material may include an oxide glass having a positive photoelastic constant and the core component may include a precursor core material that has a negative photoelastic constant. During formation, the precursor core material can melt and interact with clad material that precipitates into the core to form a glass of at least one tailored Brillouin property, such as very low Brillouin gain.
US09139460B2 Methods for deactivating biomass
A method of deactivating biomass is set forth. The method includes two stages, a disrupting stage and a rupture stage. The disrupting stage includes the steps of injecting an oxidizer gas into the biomass with minimal or significant elevated pressure and then a depressurizing of the biomass. The steps cause a disruption of cellular membranes of cells present in the biomass. The rupture stage includes the step of injecting the biomass with a rupture gas sufficient to pressurize the biomass to a second elevated pressure following by the depressurizing of the biomass. The injecting and depressurizing steps of the rupture stage can be repeated at least two times in order to rupture the cell membranes and expose residual cell contents.
US09139459B2 Process and system for removal of naphthenic acid from an aqueous solution
The present disclosure provides a process for removing naphthenic acid and/or naphthenic compounds from an aqueous solution. The process comprises one or more of the steps of: (a) feeding an aqueous solution comprising a constituent selected from the group consisting of naphthenic aldehyde, naphthenic alcohol, naphthenic acid, and combinations thereof, into a mix tank; (b) feeding an oxidizing agent into the mix tank forming a reactant mixture; (c) mixing the reactant mixture in the mix tank; (d) coagulating the reactant mixture with a polyvalent metallic electrode forming metallic naphthenate particles; (e) flocculating the metallic naphthenate particles forming floc; (f) sparging to float the floc to the surface of the aqueous solution; and (g) removing the floc from the aqueous solution. A system for removing naphthenic acid and/or naphthenic compounds from an aqueous solution is also disclosed herein.
US09139455B2 Techniques for promoting current efficiency in electrochemical separation systems and methods
An electrochemical separation system may be modular and may include at least a first modular unit and a second modular unit. Each modular unit may include a cell stack and a frame. The frame may include a manifold system. A flow distribution system in the frame may enhance current efficiency. Spacers positioned between modular units may also enhance current efficiency of the system.
US09139447B2 Process for the production of sodium bicarbonate
Process for the joint production of sodium carbonate and sodium bicarbonate out of sesquicarbonate, in which the sesquicarbonate is dissolved in water, in order to form a feed water solution comprising both sodium carbonate and sodium bicarbonate, in which at least part of the feed water solution is introduced into all the compartments of an electrodialyser and in which a sodium bicarbonate enriched solution and a sodium carbonate enriched solution are extracted from the compartments.
US09139445B2 Method for co-producing alumina and activated calcium silicate from high-alumina fly ash
A method for co-producing alumina and activated calcium silicate from high-alumina fly ash, comprising the steps that: high-alumina fly ash reacts with sodium hydroxide solution to obtain desiliconized solution and desiliconized fly ash; milk of lime is added to the desiliconized solution to obtain activated calcium silicate; limestone and sodium carbonate solution are added to the desiliconized fly ash to blend raw slurry, the raw slurry is baked into clinker, and sodium aluminate crude solution is obtained from dissolution of the clinker; the sodium aluminate crude solution is subjected to the processes of first-stage deep desiliconization, second-stage deep desiliconization, carbonization decomposition, seed precipitation and etc to obtain alumina. According to the invention, less material flow and small amount of slag formation are achieved, the energy consumption, material consumption and production cost are low; the extraction rate of alumina is high, and meanwhile, activated calcium silicate with high added value is co-produced.
US09139444B2 Pyrogenic silicic acid manufactured in a small-scale production plant
Disclosed is a flame reactor characterized in that the flame reactor comprises a reactor chamber having a volume of 1 m3 to 10 m3, is 1 m to 10 m high, and includes a reactor nozzle for feeding the reactants.
US09139441B2 Porous silicon based anode material formed using metal reduction
A porous silicon based material comprising porous crystalline elemental silicon formed by reducing silicon dioxide with a reducing metal in a heating process followed by acid etching is used to construct negative electrode used in lithium ion batteries. Gradual temperature heating ramp(s) with optional temperature steps can be used to perform the heating process. The porous silicon formed has a high surface area from about 10 m2/g to about 200 m2/g and is substantially free of carbon. The negative electrode formed can have a discharge specific capacity of at least 1800 mAh/g at rate of C/3 discharged from 1.5V to 0.005V against lithium with in some embodiments loading levels ranging from about 1.4 mg/cm2 to about 3.5 mg/cm2. In some embodiments, the porous silicon can be coated with a carbon coating or blended with carbon nanofibers or other conductive carbon material.
US09139438B2 Graphitization furnace and method for producing graphite
A graphitization furnace (100) includes: split electrodes (122) that are conductive and are provided so as to be freely movable; crucibles (120) that are conductive and that contain carbon powder, with a bottom end portion (122a) of each split electrode (122) being buried in the carbon powder; upper electrodes (190) that are positioned so as to face a split electrode (122); lower electrodes (192) that are positioned so as to face a crucible (120); and a power supply unit (132) that, when a bottom end portion (190a) of an upper electrode (190) is placed in contact with a top end portion (122b) of a split electrode (122) and a top end portion (192a) of a lower electrode (192) is placed in contact with a base portion (120b) of a crucible (120), applies a voltage between the upper electrode (190) and the lower electrode (192).
US09139435B2 Method for preparing semiconductor nanocrystals
A method for making semiconductor nanocrystals is disclosed, the method comprising adding a secondary phosphine chalcogenide to a solution including a metal source and a liquid medium at a reaction temperature to form a reaction product comprising a semiconductor comprising a metal and a chalcogen, and quenching the reaction mixture to form quantum dots. Methods for overcoating are also disclosed. Semiconductor nanocrystals are also disclosed.
US09139434B1 Method and apparatus for managing oxygen generating system
Apparatus and method for managing an oxygen generating system configured for supplying a sustained flow of oxygen, which may include a control box. The control box may include an oil-less air compressor configured to pump the oxygen to an oxygen storage tank from at least two banks of at least one oxygen generator. The control box may include or be connected to a pressure sensor associated with the oxygen storage tank. The control box may further include one or more controller devices configured to control at least two circuits for providing power to the at least two banks of at least one oxygen generator. The one or more controller devices may be configured to switch on or off each bank of oxygen generators in response to particular threshold pressures associated with the storage tank. The one or more controller devices may also be configured to control the oil-less air compressor.
US09139431B2 Process and equipment for the production of ammonia make-up syngas with an air separation unit as nitrogen source
A process and a plant for producing a makeup synthesis gas (6) for the synthesis of ammonia where a hydrocarbon feedstock is reformed in a primary reformer (10) and in an autothermal reformer (14) in parallel with said primary reformer; nitrogen is furnished by an air separation unit (13), and O2-enhched air (8) produced in said air separation unit is fed to the autothermal reformer. A method for the revamping of the front-end of an ammonia plant is also disclosed.
US09139428B2 Method of fabrication of Al/Ge bonding in a wafer packaging environment and a product produced therefrom
A method of bonding of germanium to aluminum between two substrates to create a robust electrical and mechanical contact is disclosed. An aluminum-germanium bond has the following unique combination of attributes: (1) it can form a hermetic seal; (2) it can be used to create an electrically conductive path between two substrates; (3) it can be patterned so that this conduction path is localized; (4) the bond can be made with the aluminum that is available as standard foundry CMOS process. This has the significant advantage of allowing for wafer-level bonding or packaging without the addition of any additional process layers to the CMOS wafer.
US09139427B2 Methods for producing a cavity within a semiconductor substrate
A method for producing at least one cavity within a semiconductor substrate includes dry etching the semiconductor substrate from a surface of the semiconductor substrate at at least one intended cavity location in order to obtain at least one provisional cavity. The method includes depositing a protective material with regard to a subsequent wet-etching process at the surface of the semiconductor substrate and at cavity surfaces of the at least one provisional cavity. Furthermore, the method includes removing the protective material at least at a section of a bottom of the at least one provisional cavity in order to expose the semiconductor substrate. This is followed by electrochemically etching the semiconductor substrate at the exposed section of the bottom of the at least one provisional cavity. A method for producing a micromechanical sensor system in which this type of cavity formation is used and a corresponding MEMS are also disclosed.
US09139424B2 Method of encapsulating a microelectronic device
A method of encapsulating at least one microelectronic device is provided, including encapsulating the device in a cavity hermetically sealed against air, a cap of the cavity including at least one wall permeable to at least one noble gas; injecting the noble gas into the cavity through the wall permeable to the noble gas; hermetically sealing the cavity against air and the injected noble gas; forming the device on at least one first substrate; bonding at least one second substrate to the first substrate, thereby forming the cavity hermetically sealed against air, the wall permeable to the noble gas being formed by part of the second substrate; and forming, between the encapsulating and the injecting, at least one portion of material impermeable to the noble gas such that said portion partially covers the part of the second substrate that forms the wall permeable to the noble gas.
US09139423B2 Micro electro mechanical system structures
A micro electro mechanical system (MEMS) structure includes a first substrate structure including a bonding pad structure. The bonding pad structure has at least one recess therein. A second substrate structure is bonded with the bonding pad structure of the first substrate structure.
US09139421B1 Top port surface mount MEMS microphone
A top port, surface mount package for a micro-electro-mechanical system (MEMS) microphone die is disclosed. The surface mount package features a substrate with metal pads for surface mounting the package to a device's printed circuit board and for making electrical connections between the microphone package and the device's circuit board. The surface mount microphone package has a cover with an acoustic port, and the MEMS microphone die is substrate-mounted and acoustically coupled to the acoustic port. The substrate and the cover are joined together to form the MEMS microphone, and the substrate and cover cooperate to form an acoustic chamber for the substrate-mounted MEMS microphone die.
US09139418B2 MEMS component
An MEMS component includes at least one metal-ceramic multilayer stack as a mechanical functional layer in the layered structure of the MEMS component. The metal-ceramic multilayer stack functions as a mechanical functional layer in which at least one component of the micromechanical structure of the MEMS component is configured.
US09139407B2 Interactive clamp force control system for load handling clamps
Improvements are disclosed for a load-clamping system with variable clamping force control by which a wide variety of dissimilar loads of different types, geometric configurations and/or other parameters can be accurately clamped at respective variable optimal clamping force settings. An operator terminal cooperates with a controller to translate one or more possible load parameters into a form easily discernible visually by a clamp operator and preferably easily comparable by the clamp operator, from his visual observation, to each particular load which he is about to engage, so that the clamp operator can interactively guide the controller in its selection of an optimal clamping force setting for each particular load.
US09139405B2 Fork-mounted fork truck boom apparatus
A boom accessory for a fork truck comprises a frame having receiver tubes for receiving forks of a fork truck, a boom extending forwardly from the frame, and a frame-to-carriage anchor assembly on the frame. The frame-to-carriage anchor assembly includes a carriage-attaching subassembly with top and bottom connectors for securely engaging mating structure on the fork truck's carriage, and includes a vertically-slidable anchor between the carriage-attaching subassembly and the frame to restrain the frame horizontally from sliding forwardly off the forks. By this arrangement, the forks can lift a weight of the frame, boom, and boom-carried load without stressing the anchor assembly, but can provide a substantial and secure horizontal retaining force prevent the boom accessory from sliding forward off the forks.
US09139404B2 Raisable-lowerable member
Disclosed is a raisable-lowerable member which comprises a boom and a jib. The boom comprises a first supporting portion configured to rotatably support a jib foot when the jib is set in a protruding posture; and a second supporting portion configured to rotatably support a supportable portion of the jib when the jib is set in an enfolded posture. A position adjusting and holding unit of the jib is configured to couple, to the frame, a specific site of the second link in such a manner that a relative position of the second link with respect to the frame in a rotational direction of the second link is adjustably changed to allow the rotational axis of the second joint portion to become coincident with the rotational axis of the jib foot, and to hold the second link at the changed relative position.
US09139401B2 Elevator system operation changing from a first mode to a second mode of operation
An elevator system includes at least one elevator, at least one call input device and a call controller. The call input device transmits a call to the call controller. For a transmitted normal operation signal, at least one elevator car of an assigned elevator is activated to drive to the call input floor by at least one elevator controller of the assigned elevator. In a peak-time mode of the elevator system, at least one main operation signal is transmitted to at least one elevator. For a main operation signal transmitted to an elevator, at least one elevator car of said elevator is activated to drive between at least two main operation floors by at least one elevator controller of said elevator.
US09139397B2 Sheet binding processing apparatus and image forming system
A sheet binding processing apparatus for avoiding the residual of binding member is provided. The sheet binding processing apparatus comprises a sheet insertion port through which a sheet bundle formed of a plurality of sheets S is inserted, a movable stapler for binding the sheet bundle inserted through the sheet insertion port, and a manual stapling sheet sensor for detecting, at a predetermined detection time interval, existence or non-existence of the sheet bundle in the sheet insertion port. When the manual stapling sheet sensor detects the existence of the sheet bundle, the sheet binding processing apparatus gives permission to bind the sheet bundle by the movable stapler.
US09139395B2 Rotatable tray for sheet processing apparatus
A sheet processing apparatus comprises an ejecting unit configured to eject a sheet or a bundle of sheets, and a sheet stacking unit configured to stack the sheet or the bundle of sheets ejected by the ejecting unit. In the apparatus, the leading end portion of the sheet stacking unit on the downstream side in the sheet conveying direction is rotatable downward and capable of dropping down the sheet or the bundle of sheets stacked on the sheet stacking unit from the leading end portion of the sheet stacking unit.
US09139393B2 Roll stand assembly
A roll stand assembly for processing a sheet product with a plurality of rolls on a frame. A first roll has a first sheet engaging surface and a first shaft assembly. A second roll has a second sheet engaging surface and a second shaft assembly. The first and second rolls are relatively movable between: a) an operating relationship; and b) an open relationship. A safety assembly prevents inadvertent changing of the first and second rolls from the open relationship into the operating relationship. The safety assembly includes a first chuck component mounted for movement relative to the frame between: a) a running position wherein the safety assembly is in a disengaged state; and b) a lockout position.
US09139392B2 Medium transporting device and recording apparatus
A medium transporting device includes a first roller that inverts a medium supplied from a processing section side, the processing section processing the medium; a second roller that is located closer to the processing section than the first roller, the second roller having a function of inverting the medium supplied from the processing section side and a function of applying a transporting force to the medium using an outer peripheral surface of the second roller that faces both a pre-inversion medium transporting pathway for transporting a medium that has not been inverted by the first roller and a post-inversion medium transporting pathway for transporting a medium that has been inverted by the first roller; a medium transporting pathway that causes the medium supplied from the processing section side to be inverted along the second roller and causes the medium thus inverted to be supplied to the processing section side.
US09139391B2 Sheet conveyor, image forming apparatus incorporating same, and method of preventing sheet skew
A sheet conveyor, which is incorporated in an image forming apparatus and in which a method of preventing sheet skew is performed, includes a sheet conveying path through which a sheet is conveyed, a first conveying unit disposed in a sheet conveying direction and including a shaft extending in a lateral direction, multiple rollers attached to the shaft along the shaft, and a rotation regulator disposed between each of the multiple rollers and the shaft to idly rotate each of the multiple rollers in a given range about the shaft, a second conveying unit disposed along the sheet conveying path and downstream from the first conveying unit in the sheet conveying direction, and a sheet abutting part provided at the second conveying unit, against which a leading edge of the sheet abuts to form a slack of the sheet to correct skew of the sheet.
US09139385B2 Apparatus and system for the unloading of open top rail cars
An apparatus for the unloading of an open top railcar apparatus has a ramp with a top surface and a bottom surface, a leg member affixed to the ramp so as to support the bottom surface of the ramp a distance above an underlying surface, and a hanger affixed to one end of the ramp so as to be suitable for positioning into the open top of the rail car. The leg member has first arm affixed to the first side member, a second side member affixed to the second side member, and bar affixed to the arms and extending therebetween.
US09139384B2 Track-mounted wheel restraint systems
Example manual wheel restraint systems and methods for restraining a vehicle at a loading dock include are disclosed herein. An example wheel restraint disclosed herein includes a retractable wheel-blocking barrier mounted to a carrier that can be repositioned along a track, where the track is anchored to a driveway of a loading dock. The track runs generally parallel to a vehicle path that a wheel of a vehicle travels along as the vehicle backs into the dock. To block a rear wheel of the vehicle parked at the dock, the barrier extends laterally into the wheel path, adjacent or in front of the wheel. To release the vehicle, the barrier retracts out from within the wheel path. In some examples, to ensure that the vehicle is secured, the barrier and/or the carrier include barrier or carrier catches to help hold the barrier and carrier in a fixed position. In some examples, one or more sensors determine or sense whether the catches are secured or released and generate signals accordingly. The signals, in some examples, alert dock personnel of the condition of the catches.
US09139379B2 Carrying belt conveyor and conveyor arrangement having a carrying belt conveyor of this type
A carrying belt conveyor for conveying material which includes a rail system having at least one floor-based carrying rail. There is at least one transport car which may be moved in a transport direction on the carrying rail and which includes a travel mechanism having a travel unit which leads in the transport direction and a travel unit which follows in the transport direction, the travel units are connected by a frame structure and are each guided by the carrying rail. The transport car also includes a carrying device for material to be conveyed. The frame structure of the travel mechanism forms the carrying device and is in turn constructed as a conveyor device by means of which material to be conveyed is moved relative to the travel mechanism of the transport car at an angle to the transport direction.
US09139375B2 Chain tension sensor
A chain tension sensor for a chain conveyor, the conveyor including a frame and a chain having a plurality of flights. The tension sensor includes a reaction arm and a load sensing pin. The reaction arm includes a first end, a second end opposite the first end, and a load pad. The first end is pivotably coupled to the frame by a pivot pin defining a pivot axis. The load pad is adjacent the conveyor chain and positioned to contact flights passing the load pad. The flights contacting the load pad exert a force on the reaction in a direction that is perpendicular to the pivot axis. The load sensing pin is coupled to the reaction arm such that the load sensing pin senses the force that is exerted by the flights.
US09139370B1 Conveyor system and a mechanical chain having a plurality of links
A link for a mechanical chain configured for engaging sprocket teeth is provided, the link having one or more features for minimizing pinch points and contamination within a conveyor system and for minimizing wear of the link when used within a conveyor system. A mechanical chain incorporating links with such features and a conveyor system incorporating the mechanical chain also are provided.
US09139368B2 Vertical conveyor
A conveyor for conveying mineral material vertically includes a conveyor frame; at least two conveyor main rolls or pairs of conveyor main pulleys, a plurality of conveyor guide rolls or conveyor guide pulleys and a first and a second endless conveyor belt. The main rolls or pulleys are arranged on top of each other and the guide rolls or pulleys are arranged outside each conveyor main roll or pulley at a circumference of a circle. The endless conveyor belts alternate between being moved on either a main roll or a pair of main pulleys or on a group of guide rolls or guide pulleys. The endless conveyor belts are arranged to be moved at a speed that any material being conveyed stays in contact with the surface of either the first or the second endless conveyor belts when being moved on a the conveyor guide rolls or pulleys.
US09139364B1 Method for carbon dioxide sequestration
A method for geo-sequestration of a carbon dioxide includes selection of a target water-laden geological formation with low-permeability interbeds, providing an injection well into the formation and injecting supercritical carbon dioxide (SC—CO2) into the injection well under conditions of temperature, pressure and density selected to cause the fluid to enter the formation and splinter and/or form immobilized ganglia within the formation. This process allows for the immobilization of the injected SC—CO2 for very long times. The dispersal of scCO2 into small ganglia is accomplished by alternating injection of SC—CO2 and water. The injection rate is required to be high enough to ensure the SC—CO2 at the advancing front to be broken into pieces and small enough for immobilization through viscous instability.
US09139362B2 Method and apparatus for handling material in a pneumatic pipe transport system
A method and apparatus for handling and conveying a material, for example a waste material, in a pneumatic pipe transport system which includes the steps and apparatus for introducing the material to a rotary press device, the rotary press device containing rotating and stationary apertures which are eccentrically arranged with respect to an axis of rotation of the rotating apertures, compacting and compressing the material within the rotary press device and transferring the compacted and compressed material downstream to an output transport system, wherein the material is conducted and transported into the rotary press device and through the rotary pressure device to the output transport system, at least partially, by suction and/or pressure difference in the pneumatic pipe transport system.
US09139360B2 Flavor pouch
A flavor pouch includes a porous covering that encloses a carrier having a flavorant. The carrier may be solid or particulate. Flavorants may be one or more of tea, coffee, rose hips, honey, royal jelly, fruit extracts, mint, sweeteners, ginger, pepper extract, exotic flavors, ethnic flavors and the like. Where the carrier comprises a plurality of beads, the beads may have randomly dissolvable encapsulation to extend the time duration of flavor release. To use the flavor pouch, it is placed in the mouth and masticated or exposed to saliva to thereby release the flavorant.
US09139351B2 Temperature-stabilized storage systems with flexible connectors
Substantially thermally sealed containers including flexible connectors joining an aperture in the exterior of the container to an aperture in a substantially thermally sealed storage region within the container are described. The flexible connectors include a duct forming an elongated thermal pathway between the exterior of the container and the substantially thermally sealed storage region within the container. The flexible connectors include compression units mated to each end of the duct and a plurality of compression strands connected between the compression units.
US09139348B2 Pouch with incorporated loss of integrity indicator, method for making such a bag, and method for using same
A pouch includes: a first closed, inner casing, made of at least one non-porous plastic material with a high-capacity gas barrier, delimiting a first space, forming a pouch stricto sensu for accommodating a biopharmaceutical product or device, a second closed, outer casing, made of at least one non-porous plastic material with a high-capacity gas barrier, delimiting a second space in which the pouch stricto sensu is located, spacer elements, at least one selected tracer gas, located in the first or second space outside of the pouch stricto sensu, with a higher partial pressure than in the second space outside of the pouch stricto sensu or in the first space, at least one colorimetric detector located, respectively, in the second space outside of the pouch stricto sensu or in the first space responsive to the concentration of the tracer gas, by switching from a first color to a second different color.
US09139344B2 Packing tape
Provided are a packing tape, and a method of forming the same, the packing tape including a flexible member having a first surface and a second surface defining a body therebetween having a thickness, a width and a length. The packing tape further includes a tear-away member defined by a first row and a second row of a plurality of perforated members which are parallel to each other and centrally located along the width of the flexible member. The packing tape also includes an adhesive on the second surface of the flexible member.
US09139341B2 Unit for dispensing a product comprising a case and a cassette
The invention relates to a unit for dispensing a product comprising a case (1) and a cassette (2) which has a zone for dispensing (7) the product conditioned in a reservoir of said cassette, said cassette intended to be arranged in a housing (3) formed in a body of said case by arranging said dispensing zone in an access window (8) which is formed in an upper wall (4) of said body, said unit comprising a reversible locking mechanism of the cassette (2) in the housing (3) which has a frame (27) mounted in horizontal translation in said housing by being maintained vertically, said frame and said cassette being provided with complementary means which are arranged to, in a first position of the frame (27), allow for the arranging of the cassette (2) in the housing (3) with the dispensing zone (7) in the window (8) and, in a second position of said frame, lock the position of said cassette in said housing.
US09139337B2 Round trip envelope
A round trip envelope with front and back faces for writing the outgoing and return addresses, and which enables sealing for both of outgoing mail and return mail sealing flap, which can prevent erroneous postmarking of a stamp. An outgoing stamp affixing area and address writing area are on the front face of the envelope body, and a return stamp affixing area and a return address writing area on the back face. An adhesive area for sealing a sealing flap in a blank area on the back face, in a vicinity of an opening. A distal end portion of the sealing flap extending beyond the adhesive area constitutes a return-mail sealing flap.
US09139330B2 Clamshell carton with convertible tray
A clamshell container having a cover portion and a tray portion connected by a living hinge wherein the corners of the sidewalls in at least the tray portion are perforated or scored to permit easy separation by a user to create a substantially flat serving tray is described.
US09139328B2 Synthetic resin container
A synthetic resin container, in which the bottom part 4 having a bottom plate part 41 which is present at the center of the bottom part and a peripheral part 42 which is positioned at the periphery of the bottom plate part 41, in the peripheral part 42, a grounding part 422 having an inside slope 422a which rises outwardly of the container with the outer peripheral edge of the bottom plate part 41 being the start point and an outside slope 422b which continues to the side surface of the bottom part 4 is formed, and when a load is applied in the axial direction in the state where the container stands upright on the grounding surface G, the shape of the bottom part 4 changes reversibly such that the bottom plate part 41 is depressed inwardly to the container. As a result, it is possible to avoid deformation of a container into an unintended shape by buckling or the like even if a load is applied to a container in the axial direction, and to ensure the rigidity of a container against a load in the axial direction.
US09139325B2 Self righting container
A self righting fluid container having a flanged neck portion, a weighted base portion and an intermediate tapered section connecting the neck portion to the base portion. The center of gravity of the container, whether filled or empty, is along the centerline of the container on the positive side of a critical line which line extends normal to the horizontal plane of the support surface on which the container rests from a point where the container contacts the support surface and where the base portion intersects the tapered section.
US09139320B2 Packaging machine with foreign substance detection
The present invention relates to a packaging machine which seals a cover-film at a tray, which has been previously filled with a packaging item, whereas the packaging machine comprises an upper tool and a lower tool which are pressed together during the sealing of the cover-film to the tray, and which comprises a sensor to detect misalignment of the packaging item in the tray, a misaligned tray in the lower tool between the upper and the lower tool prior to and/or during the sealing of the cover film to the tray.
US09139318B2 Packing instrument for a bookbinding spring
The packing device having a supply frame on which a spring is provided. A cover member supply part, which is formed of a supply roll on which a cover member having a certain width, is wound and rotates, and a direction change roll for allowing a cover member to be supplied on an upper side of the spring, with the spring being placed on an upper side of the supply frame. A forming guide is provided and one end is extended at a tapered angle in a conical shape, while surrounding an upper surface of the cover member, as being closer to an end of the supply frame, and the other end surrounds the spring excluding the portion in which both sides of the cover member are overlapped. A pair of pressing rollers is provided for pressing and bonding the cover members and one driving roller for transferring the packed spring.
US09139317B2 Method and apparatus for opening bags while maintaining a continuous strip of bag precursors
Transforming machines for changing a strip of unopened bag precursors into open bag precursors are disclosed that include a drive motor, a separation station, a sensor electrically connected to a controller that is electrically connected to components of the separation station. The separation station includes a first roller, a separation roller driven by the drive motor, and a pressure device having an actuator selectively activating the pressure device to apply pressure to the strip of unopened bag precursors passing over the first roller. In operation, the controller, based on a signal from the sensor, determines when perforations are located in a gap between the pressure device and the separation roller and at that time signals the actuator to activate the pressure device, with the drive motor driving the separation roller, thereby separating the perforations in a first film layer, but not the perforations in a second film layer.
US09139313B2 System and compact method of bottling gas
The present invention relates to a system and compact method of bottling gas (1), that can be installed in any the retail sales establishment to bottle cylinders (3) directly to the consumer, or in vehicles to bottle the cylinders (3) in the residences where they are consumed, the compact system of bottling gas (1) comprising a device for transfer of gas, from a reservoir (2) to gas cylinders (3) located in closed compartments (4), allowing the consumer a choice of quantity of gas and further eliminating the inconveniences of exchanging the cylinder (3) or its transport to remote locations for refill.
US09139311B2 Reusable global launcher
A reusable unmanned single-stage boost-glide suborbital Earth launcher, able to propel large or smaller payloads from Earth surface or from air launch, to a nearly Earth-orbital condition, then glide circum-globally to horizontal airstrip landing at its launch site or similar circum-global recovery site. The payload, using its own propulsion, is thus enabled to complete insertion into low-Earth-orbit (LEO) or destinations beyond LEO. This technically feasible capability, beyond conferring economic benefits of reusability and maneuverability, can be adapted to increase payload by adding drop tanks, or solid or liquid “strap on” boosters, and might eventually be modified and evolved to perform manned aerospace missions, as well as single stage to orbit (SSTO) missions.
US09139307B2 Aircraft systems and methods for displaying runway lighting information
A display system for an aircraft includes a processing unit configured to determine runway lighting information and lighting status for runway lighting associated with a selected runway and to generate display commands based on the runway lighting information and the lighting status; and a display device coupled the processing unit and configured to receive the display commands and to display symbology representing the runway lighting information.
US09139304B2 Unspinning a payload ejected from a spinning projectile
Method and system for unspinning a payload ejected from a spinning artillery projectile where the projectile is loaded with a cargo holding the payload and a payload unspinning device. The cargo is ejected from the projectile and the payload unspinning device is operated. The cargo includes a parachute and a shroud which covers the folded parachute and at least a portion of the payload. The payload unspinning device includes at least two yo-yo cords. Ejection of the cargo is followed sequentially by unwinding of the at least two yo-yo cords, liberation of the shroud, deployment of the parachute and stabilization of the payload.
US09139303B2 Plinth-mounted seat assembly and mounting sub-assemblies
A seat mounting assembly including a swingarm configured for attachment to spaced-apart floor tracks, and a plinth having a seat mounted thereon mounted on the swingarm such that the swingarm is configured to deflect in a direction away from the plinth in response to floor deformation. An assembly for mounting a suite-style seat supported on a plinth to spaced floor tracks to isolate the plinth from floor deformation.
US09139301B2 Divider curtain
A curtain divider for an aircraft interior containing pivot stow bins includes a first fabric curtain, having an outboard end and an inboard end, which is attachable to the aircraft interior only at the outboard and inboard ends. The first fabric curtain includes a vertical portion, and a horizontal portion. The vertical portion has a substantially straight bottom edge, and an arcuate top edge defining a space sufficient for opening the pivot stow bins. The horizontal portion is flexibly attached to the vertical portion along the top edge and extends from the outboard end to the inboard end, having a substantially continuous curvature. The horizontal portion is adapted to impart forward and aft stability to the curtain support member at the top edge.
US09139300B2 Load attachment system for helicopters
A load attachment system for a helicopter including a load attachment coupling mounted to a helicopter, the load attachment coupling having a load point associated therewith forward of the standard hook attachment and below the center of gravity of the helicopter.
US09139299B2 Vertical takeoff and landing roadable vehicle
A roadable vehicle with a single nacelle assembly that contains a pair of inline counter-rotating propellers. Two inline counter-rotating engines are directly connected to the propellers. One engine is shut down in horizontal flight to improve efficiency. Gimbal mounting the nacelle assembly permits thrust to be directed forward to back and left to right to control the vehicle position in the horizontal plane, when hovering. Varying the relative engine speeds controls yaw. The roadable vehicle is adaptable as an unmanned vehicle. The foldable wings equipped with automotive type wheels provide for travel off-road as well as on the highway.
US09139298B2 Rotorcraft control system for rotorcraft with two or more rotor systems
A multirotor rotorcraft control system for effectuating flight control. The multirotor rotorcraft has at least two or more rotor assemblies. The control system preferably includes at least one flap for each rotor blade and at least one actuator for each rotor assembly. The rotor assemblies and the flap(s) and actuator(s) for each assembly are used for flight control. This invention does not require a complex fixed pitch control system or a high frequency servo control system. This invention can control blade angle of attack during autorotation.
US09139297B1 Rotor blade subsystems attachment
A rotor blade having conduits for supporting control lines is disclosed. The control lines extend from a rotor hub to a tip jet mounted near a distal end of the rotor blade. The conduits mount within leading and trailing edge fairings mounted to a blade spar. The conduits may be supported by bulkheads secured at discrete locations along the blade spar and secured to the leading and trailing edge fairings. The conduits may also be secured to support webs secured to the leading or trailing edge fairing and extending longitudinally therealong. The conduit may have a tapered inner surface and a tapered fitting may secure to the control line to engage the tapered inner surface.
US09139296B2 Rotor hub vibration attenuator
A vibration attenuator for an aircraft has at least one weight mounted in a rotating system of a rotor hub of the aircraft, each weight being rotatable about an axis of rotation of the hub relative to the hub and to each other weight. Drive means are provided for rotating each weight about the axis of rotation at a selected speed for creating oscillatory shear forces that oppose and attenuate rotor-induced vibrations having a selected frequency. A vertically oriented vibration attenuator is configured to oppose and attenuate vertical rotor induced oscillatory forces that would otherwise travel vertical down the rotor mast and into the airframe.
US09139293B2 Optimized real-time antiskid control initialization for travel surfaces as a function of wheel spinup
Systems, methods, and apparatus for optimizing real-time antiskid control initialization for a vehicle on a travel surface are disclosed. In one or more embodiments, a method involves determining when at least one wheel of the vehicle touches ground. The method further involves calculating a rate of wheel spin up for at least one wheel. Also, the method involves determining whether the rate of wheel spin up exceeds a wheel spin up rate threshold. In addition, the method involves applying a high level of brake force when the rate of wheel spin up exceeds the wheel spin up rate threshold, and applying a low level of brake force when the rate of wheel spin up does not exceed the wheel spin up rate threshold.
US09139292B2 System and methods for dynamically stable braking
Systems and methods for dynamically stable braking are disclosed. A first electromechanical brake actuator controller may be placed in communication with a second electromechanical brake actuator controller, wherein each of the first electromechanical brake actuator controller and second electromechanical brake actuator controller are in communication with electromechanical brake actuators that are associated with the same wheel. The first electromechanical brake actuator controller and second electromechanical brake actuator controllers may then communicate electromechanical brake actuator status information and take corrective measures in accordance with the status information.
US09139289B2 Method for the automatic monitoring of air operations necessitating guaranteed navigation and guidance performance
A method is disclosed for automatic monitoring of a flight management assembly of an aircraft implementing air operations necessitating guaranteed navigation and guidance performance, wherein flight path data generated by first and second flight management systems respectively, are compared in order to check their consistency; first and second flight management systems transmit their flight path data to a third flight management system; the third flight management system receives a current position of the aircraft, calculates deviations between this current position and a flight path depending on the flight path data received from the first and second flight management systems, which it utilizes only if they are identical, and calculates, according to these deviations, guidance commands for slaving onto this flight path. Monitoring can compare deviations and guidance commands received from the first second and third flight management systems in order to be able to detect an inconsistency between them.
US09139285B2 Wing with retractable wing end piece
The invention relates to a wing with an extension in the wingspan direction, in the wing chord direction and in the wing thickness direction for use in an aircraft, with a retractable wing end piece. A mechanical lever system is here used, which can execute a pivoting motion of a wing end piece comprising both a rotational component and a translational component. The lever kinematics here comprises two lever arrangements, for which a respective two hinged devices are provided.
US09139283B1 Cargo aircraft for transporting intermodal containers in transverse orientation
Provided are aircraft for transporting intermodal containers and methods of operating such aircraft including methods of loading and unloading the containers. An aircraft includes a fuselage having a cargo space for receiving and supporting intermodal containers. The containers are oriented in the transverse direction in the cargo space or, more specifically, in a direction normal to the longitude direction that extends from the nose to the tail of the aircraft. The aircraft may transport standard 20-foot or 40-foot containers or lighter version of such containers that otherwise have the same form and features as the standard intermodal containers. The intermodal containers may be loaded through an opening in the bottom of the fuselage. Specifically, intermodal containers may be arranged into a row. The aircraft may be then rolled over this row of the containers and lowered onto the containers followed by engaging container corners.
US09139282B2 Fastening arrangement for attaching a floor
A fastening arrangement for attaching a floor to a support structure is provided. The arrangement includes across beam, a floor panel deposited on the cross beam, a fork bolt attached to the cross beam via a barrel nut, and a lug bolt rotary connected to the fork bolt for attaching an attachment element to the cross beam. The fork bolt has a head for accommodating an end of the lug bolt. The fork bolt has a foot with a thread to be screwed into a thread of the barrel nut. The floor panel has an opening for accommodating the head of the fork bolt, such that the floor panel is attached to the cross beam by the fork bolt. The head of the fork bolt is rotatable in the opening of the floor panel for screwing the fork bolt into the barrel nut by rotating the lug bolt.
US09139272B2 Internally actuated autonomous sailing buoy
A robust mechanical actuation design for an autonomous sailing buoy (1) is disclosed based on an internal actuation system. The buoy (1) consists of a simple closed body (3) taking the form of a ship hull to which are attached two fixed appendages (2, 4): one rigid wing (4) to catch the wind, and a keel (2). The design is completely rudderless. Steering is performed using only an internal actuation system. This system includes a moving mass system (5, 6, 7), a processing unit (9), and a navigation unit (8). The navigation unit (8) consists of a GPS, accelerometers and gyroscopes, and a wind direction and velocity sensor. The processing unit (9), using information given by the navigation unit (8), automatically controls the moving mass (6) to hold the buoy (1) on a desired course.
US09139266B2 Floating wind turbine platform with ballast control and mooring system
A floating wind turbine platform includes stabilizing columns, a tower, water-entrapment plates connected to the stabilizing columns, and a ballast control system. The tower is mounted over one of the columns. The stabilizing columns include internal volumes for containing a ballast. The ballast control system includes an alignment sensor and a controller. The alignment sensor is configured to detect a rotation of the tower. The controller is configured to direct a transfer of ballast from one column to another column to adjust an alignment of the tower.
US09139264B2 Board booster system
The subject matter disclosed herein relates to a system for a water-going board that boosts the forward momentum of the board. This system may include a board having a bottom surface. The system may also include one or more cavities formed in the bottom surface of the board. These cavities may be configured to catch forward-moving energy of water moving forward relative to the board, while allowing passage of rearward-moving energy of water moving rearward relative to the board.
US09139253B2 Electric bicycle
Disclosed is an electric bicycle. The electric bicycle includes a hub motor assembly provided at a wheel to supply driving force, an electronic control unit provided in the hub motor assembly, and a wireless communication device mounted to a wheel shaft and electrically connected to the electronic control unit.
US09139251B2 Mechanism for converting reciprocating lever action to unidirectional rotary motion
A mechanism, e.g. for driving a wheelchair, converting oscillating motion of a lever (15) into rotary motion of an output disc (capstans 34) by means of a flexible member (belt 26). In one direction of the lever (15), the belt (26) drives the output disc (capstans 24). In the other direction, the belt (26) slips. This is achieved by a (rotary) drag element (22) providing a (rotary) resistance force (=counter force) upstream the output disc (34) thereby tensioning the belt (26) such that slip is avoided.
US09139247B2 Front structure for saddle-ride type vehicle, and vehicle including same
A front structure for a saddle-ride vehicle includes a transparent windscreen. The windscreen covers a front side of at least one gauge. The gauge is arranged in front of a handlebar for the vehicle. A front cowl that is arranged outside of a front fork in a vehicle width direction and extends in a straddling manner in front of and behind the front fork in a side view. The front cowl is arranged below a supporting member for the handlebar, and the front cowl is spaced away from the windscreen in a vertical direction.
US09139246B2 Universal mounting device for one or more accessories and method of using same
A device for removably mounting an accessory to a vehicle includes a chassis. The chassis includes a first end, an opposing second end, at least one leg extending therebetween, and an accessory interface located proximate the first end of the chassis. The leg includes at least one hole extending therethrough. At least one fastening mechanism extends into at least a portion of the hole of the leg. At least one accessory mount is configured to releasably engage at least a portion of the accessory interface of the chassis.
US09139244B2 Sound emitting handgrip for a tubular handlebar
A handgrip assembly including a sound emitting assembly, the handgrip assembly adapted to be slid over and into a tube end at an end portion of a tubular handlebar.
US09139240B1 Apparatus for decreasing aerodynamic drag, improving stability, and reducing road spray of a transport vehicle
The invention relates to an apparatus for decreasing aerodynamic drag, improving stability, and reducing road spray of a transport vehicle. The apparatus comprises an underbody fairing comprising a substantially parabolic elongated panel. The underbody fairing is strategically positioned beneath the transport vehicle and forward of the rear wheel assembly to deflect air around the rear wheel assembly while also facilitating a laminar airflow moving laterally beneath the transport vehicle.
US09139232B1 Hood support assembly for a work vehicle
A hood support assembly for a work vehicle may generally include a support frame having a front support arm, a rear support arm and a hood support plate coupled between the front and rear support arms. The support frame may further include a first mounting bracket and a second mounting bracket extending inwardly from the front and rear support arms, respectively. The hood support assembly may also include a removable mounting cradle coupled between the first and second mounting brackets. The mounting cradle may include a first mounting flange configured to be coupled to the first mounting bracket and a second mounting flange configured to be coupled to the second mounting bracket. The mounting cradle may be configured to vertically support an exhaust treatment component of the work vehicle between the front and rear support arms.
US09139231B2 Drainage device for discharging liquid out of the water box of a motor vehicle
A drainage device is provided for a motor vehicle, which serves for discharging liquid out of the water box of a motor vehicle. The drainage device includes, but is not limited to a line portion, which is at least partially incorporated in an insulating structure for the front wall of the motor vehicle. A motor vehicle is also provided with a water box and a drainage device that is fluidically connected to the water box.
US09139226B2 Method, apparatus, and system for parking control
Disclosed is an a method, an apparatus, and a system for getting a peripheral situation to automatically determine a parking mode, and helping recognize an obstacle more accurately by using a camera in addition to an ultrasonic sensor, thereby allowing a safe and accurate parking control.
US09139224B2 Inverted pendulum type vehicle
An inverted pendulum type vehicle enabled to easily execute a turning motion with a configuration of a low cost. An inverted pendulum type vehicle includes a second moving motion unit disposed with an interval from a first moving motion unit and configured to be capable of moving in all directions on a floor surface. A brake device is configured to be capable of generating a brake force imparted to the second moving motion unit. A control unit is provided for determining the presence/absence of a request for turning motion of the vehicle, and, when there is a request for the turning motion, to control the motion of the brake device so as to impart a braking force to the second moving motion unit.
US09139218B2 Tilt steering column device
A tilt steering column device is provided having construction in which a displacement bracket 16a is provided on the top side of the steering column 6a and that suppresses an increase in operation force for operating an adjustment lever even when the steering wheel 1 is located at the top end of the adjustment range. A wide section 33 having a width dimension that is larger than the width dimension in the forward-backward direction of an anchor section 25 or the top-half section of a pushing member 29 is provided in the top-end section of at least one long hole 17a of a pair of long holes 17a, 17b that are provided in support plate sections 15b, 15c.
US09139216B1 Quick-release ATV skis
Quick-release skis couple to the front wheels of an ATV or other wheeled vehicle, to permit the ATV to travel over snow. The rear ATV wheels may be left unaltered, or more commonly, tracks may be substituted for the rear wheels. The ski coupling includes a drive-on runner and coupling having in one embodiment width-adjustable side walls, an over-center clamp, and a lock for securing the over-center clamp. In a second embodiment, a pivotal tire cage allows the ATV tire to be driven onto the ski, but simply by forward travel of the tire the cage pivots to constrain the tire thereon. A strap then binds the tire and cage to ensure the tire stays in place on the ski. In a third embodiment, an ATV track is converted to a runner by the application and tensioning of a ski. Additional embodiments are illustrated.
US09139211B2 Device for detecting the occupied or available status of a track segment and method for operating such a device
A device for detecting an occupied or available status of a track segment has a transmitter for feeding in a transmitted signal into the travel rails of the track segment and at least one receiver for receiving a received signal generated by transmitting the transmitted signal via the travel rails of the track segment. In order to simplify commissioning, the device is implemented for varying the frequency of the transmitted signal, for determining a resonant frequency of the transmitted signal, and for adjusting the frequency of the transmitted signal to the determined resonant frequency. A method for operating the device for detecting the occupied or available status of a rail segment is further discussed.
US09139209B2 Derailment detector
A derailment detector for a railway vehicle includes a housing in selective fluid communication with a brake pipe of the railway vehicle to receive compressed air from a pneumatic braking system. A main chamber is disposed within the housing and pressurized by the compressed air. A shock detection assembly is adapted for detecting an acceleration indicative of a derailment condition and activating a main valve disposed within the main chamber upon detection of the acceleration indicative of the derailment condition. A discharge valve is in selective fluid communication with the main chamber, where, upon detection of the acceleration indicative of the derailment condition, the discharge valve is operative for discharging a predetermined amount of the compressed air from the main chamber to indicate that the derailment condition has occurred.
US09139207B2 Modular monorail buss control system and method
A modular, electrified monorail system upon which at least one motorized trolley assembly may be propelled along. The system may incorporate a plurality of rail assemblies adapted to be coupled adjacent to one another to form a generally continuous track. Each rail assembly may make use of an electrified track adapted to provide an electrical signal from an electrical power source to at least one electrical conductor extending coextensively along the electrified track. A controller may be mounted on the electrified track. The controller may be configured to selectively apply and remove the electrical power from the electrified track to control propulsion of the motorized trolley assembly along the electrified track.
US09139206B2 Multidirectional transport system
A transport system includes a main cable, a track assembly, and a conveyance assembly, wherein the track assembly is suspended from the main cable to allow unimpeded translational movement of the conveyance assembly along the track assembly. In another aspect according to the present invention, the track assembly has a track changing assembly that includes a track changing section rotatably coupled to a primary track section for selective alignment of the track changing section to any one of a plurality of exit track sections. A method of conveyance along a suspended track includes suspending a main cable between natural or artificial support structures, suspending a track assembly from the main cable, and mounting a conveyance assembly on the suspended track assembly to provide unimpeded translational movement of the conveyance assembly along the track assembly.
US09139205B2 System and method for determining when engine has abnormally stopped in a hybrid electric vehicle
Disclosed is a system and method for determining when an engine of a hybrid electric vehicle has abnormally stalled. In particular, a control unit is configured to determine whether an entry condition has been satisfied before determining whether the engine stalled. Then once it is determined that the engine has stalled, the control unit increase a stall count and monitors whether the engine enters a normal operation state. If the engine enters a normal state, the control unit decreases the stall count. However, when the stall count is greater than or equal to a predetermined threshold value it is determined that the engine is out of order. Thus, it can be clearly identified when an engine has stalled abnormally and over-discharging of the battery may be avoided.
US09139202B2 Vehicle collision management responsive to adverse circumstances in an avoidance path
Described embodiments include a system and a method. A system includes an evaluation circuit configured to determine a characteristic of an adverse circumstance present in a possible collision avoidance path of a vehicle. The system includes a rating circuit configured to assign a risk value to the possible collision avoidance path responsive to the determined characteristic of the adverse circumstance. The system includes an uncertainty assessment circuit configured to assign an uncertainty to the risk value. The system includes a threshold circuit configured to determine if the risk value of the possible collision avoidance path and the uncertainty in a combination meet a threshold criteria. The system includes a communication circuit configured to output the possible collision avoidance path as a selected collision avoidance path if the threshold criteria is met.
US09139200B2 Integrated vehicular system for low speed collision avoidance
A method of providing range measurements for use with a vehicle, the method comprising the steps of: a) visually sensing (2) the area adjacent the vehicle to produce visual sense data (22); b) range sensing (26) objects around the vehicle to produce range sense data; c) combining the visual sense data and the range sense data to produce, with respect to the vehicle, an estimate of ranges to the objects around the vehicle (28). The estimate of ranges to the objects around the vehicle may be displayed (29) to a driver.
US09139198B2 Control device for vehicle drive device
A control device for a vehicle drive device. A start control section executes internal combustion engine start control. A start slip control section executes start slip control of bringing one of the plurality of shift engagement devices into a slip engaged state. An intended engagement device deciding section that decides as an intended engagement device, based on a set determination speed. The intended engagement device deciding section decides as the intended engagement device a special engagement device that is the shift engagement device having been in the direct-coupling engaged state in order to form the reference shift speed, and that is disengaged when a transition is made to a special shift speed on an opposite side of the specific shift speed from the reference shift speed in order of speed ratios of the plurality of shift speeds.
US09139196B2 Regenerative control device, hybrid vehicle, regenerative control method, and computer program
In a hybrid vehicle, threshold values AA, the vehicle uses both of engine braking of the engine and the regeneration torque of the electric motor as the braking force. When SOC≧B or SOC>B in the operating form solely with the electric motor, the vehicle uses both of engine braking of the engine and the regeneration torque of the electric motor as the braking force. When SOC≧C or SOC>C in the operating form with cooperation of the engine and the electric motor, limitation of electric power by the regenerative power generation is started.
US09139191B2 Oil pump control method for hybrid vehicle
Noise may be prevented from being generated while providing smooth shift operability by preventing the overshoot phenomenon in which rpm of the electric oil pump is unexpectedly increased as the load decreases at the time when shifting ends in controlling the rpm of the electric oil pump to increase in order to increase the line pressure of the transmission as the shifting operation from step N to step D is performed in the hybrid vehicle having the electric oil pump.
US09139189B2 Scalable hydraulic charging in a vehicle having engine autostop/start functionality
A method for hydraulically charging a fluid circuit in a vehicle includes calculating a fluid volume of the fluid circuit via a controller, and comparing a speed of the vehicle to a calibrated speed threshold. The method also includes calculating a vehicle deceleration rate when the speed of the vehicle is less than the calibrated speed threshold and the fluid volume is less than a calibrated volume threshold. The fluid circuit is then hydraulically charged to a target volume, using a fluid pump, at a hydraulic charging rate that corresponds to the calculated vehicle deceleration rate. A vehicle includes an engine, transmission having a fluid circuit with a fluid pump, and a controller. The controller executes instructions to charge the fluid circuit according to the method noted above. A system includes the transmission and controller.
US09139187B2 Controlling method of power delivery system of vehicle
A control method of a power delivery system of a vehicle, may include determining a theoretical target slip velocity of a torque converter for slipping a damper clutch, detecting a real slip velocity of the damper clutch in a real driving condition based on the theoretical target slip velocity, expressing distributions of the real slip velocity according to an engine load ratio into a control line diagram, and controlling the real target slip velocity of the damper clutch according to the control line diagram by using the engine load ratio.
US09139185B2 Method for operating a braking system of a vehicle which is equipped with a plunger device and a control unit for a braking system of a vehicle which is equipped with a plunger device
A method for operating a braking system of a vehicle which is equipped with a plunger device, including the increasing of a brake pressure in at least one brake circuit of the braking system by transferring a brake fluid volume from the plunger device into the at least one brake circuit of the braking system, the method including: comparing an actual pressure variable to a predefined reference pressure variable with regard to an actual pressure present at least in one subsection of the braking system before the brake pressure is increased; and reducing at least a pre-pressure in the braking system prior to transferring the brake fluid volume from the plunger device into the at least one brake circuit if the actual pressure variable exceeds the reference pressure variable. A control unit is also described for a braking system of a vehicle which is equipped with a plunger device.
US09139184B2 Brake system
Disclosed herein is a brake system capable of reducing periodic pressure pulsation generated by operation of a pump. The brake system includes a damper member provided with a cylinder having a step portion and a piston to reciprocate between the cylinder and the cap. The piston may be prevented from being excessively pushed toward one side of the damper member, and pressure pulsation generated by operation of the pump may be attenuated. Therefore, overall operating noise may be reduced during control the brake and product reliability may be increased.
US09139182B2 Container, particularly for hydraulic vehicle brake systems
The invention relates to a reservoir, in particular for hydraulic motor vehicle brake systems, having one or more pressure medium chambers, a filler neck for filling the reservoir with pressure medium and a pressure medium passage, which is connected to the filler neck and has an opening facing the pressure medium chamber. In order to provide a reservoir which reliably prevents the pressure medium from leaking when the vehicle is in extreme positions and which, at the same time, can be produced in a simple and inexpensive manner, the proposal according to the invention is that the pressure medium passage be provided as a lateral channel which extends in the longitudinal direction along the reservoir, starting from the filler neck, and be formed by walls of an upper part and of a lower part of the reservoir.
US09139181B2 Pedal arrangement
A pedal arrangement is provided for a motor vehicle that includes, but is not limited to a pedal module, on which at least one pedal is movably fastened. The pedal has a mount in which a push rod is movably mounted for the transmission of actuating forces which are exerted onto the pedal. The pedal module has a guide, in which the push rod is guided in a defined position such that an end region of the push rod is able to be positioned in the mount.
US09139178B2 Pressure control valve arrangement having covers that are produced as a completely integral part with transverse channels by primary shaping
A pressure control valve arrangement is described for controlling the fluid pressure in an ABS brake system of a vehicle in such a way that, while there is a tendency of individual wheels of the vehicle to lock, the brake pressure in at least one associated brake cylinder can be adaptively adjusted, wherein at least one diaphragm valve is accommodated in a housing of the pressure control valve arrangement, said diaphragm valve having a diaphragm as the valve body, which diaphragm can be acted upon by introducing a pressure medium into a control chamber that is covered on the outside of the housing by a respective cover produced by primary shaping, such as injection molding, in such a way that the control chamber is formed between the diaphragm and the cover, and wherein blind holes, which extend in the cover substantially perpendicularly to the plane of the cover, are formed in the cover, the blind hole opening of at least one of said blind holes leading into the control chamber, and the blind hole opening of at least one other of said blind holes leading into a pressure medium channel formed in the housing, and at least one and the other of said blind holes being fluidically interconnected by at least one transverse channel, characterized in that the transverse channel has an acute angle relative to the plane of the cover and opens at one end, by a transverse channel opening, into the control chamber or into the pressure medium channel, wherein the transverse channel opening at least partially overlaps the blind hole opening of one of the blind holes connected by the transverse channel.
US09139177B1 Method of controlling the brake bias in a vehicle braking system
A method and system for controlling the overall brake bias in a vehicle braking system having both frictional and regenerative braking devices. The method comprises receiving a brake bias command and determining a desired brake bias based on the brake bias command. The method further comprises changing the brake bias in the vehicle braking system to achieve the desired brake bias through the operation of one or more regenerative braking devices. The system comprises one or more regenerative braking devices, each configured to apply negative torque to one of a first axle or a second axle of the vehicle, and an electronic module, for example, an electronic brake control module (EBCM) that is configured to perform the above-described methodology.
US09139174B2 Vehicular driving support system
According to the invention, in a system that provides driving support for a vehicle, if a solid body is recognized in an advancing direction of a host vehicle, at least one avoidance target trajectory that allows a collision of the host vehicle with the solid body to be avoided are acquired on the basis of a traveling state of the host vehicle. Then, if the acquired avoidance target trajectories exist in both right and left sides of the host vehicle across the solid body, the control regarding the braking of the host vehicle is performed without performing the control regarding the turning of the host vehicle.
US09139163B2 Electric-powered vehicle
An electric-powered vehicle is provided which is capable of charging a battery with stability, and which is capable of limiting the charging of the battery in the event of theft to provide a high degree of effectiveness of preventing theft by using a simple configuration. In the electric-powered vehicle, a vehicle storage section stores therein information, e.g. an ID list, about charging facilities permitted to charge a vehicle-mounted battery. When the electric-powered vehicle is connected to a charging facility, a charging facility ID acquisition section acquires the ID of the charging facility from the charging facility connected thereto. When it is judged that the ID of the charging facility acquired by the charging facility ID acquisition section is included in the ID list of charging facilities stored in the vehicle storage section, a charging request section makes a request to the charging facility for charging of the vehicle-mounted battery.
US09139162B1 Seat belt safety insert system
A seat belt safety insert system with distance and temperature sensitivity in communication with a remote control to warn the remote control holder of excessive distance from and potential danger from heat within a vehicle.
US09139161B2 Safety device for seat belt
A safety device for a set belt includes a retractor having a rack gear on a circumferential outer surface of which the seat belt is wound; a pretensioner operated upon a collision of a car and rotating the rack gear in a direction for winding the seat belt; a release unit installed adjacent to the pretensioner, operated after the pretensioner operates the rack gear, and rotating the rack gear in a direction for unwinding the seat belt; and a switch unit receiving a manipulation force for operating the release unit, generating electricity, transferring the electricity to the release unit, and operating the release unit.
US09139158B2 Restraining device for a rider of a vehicle, method for using such a restraining device, garment for a rider of a vehicle, and safety system for the detachable binding of a rider to a vehicle
A restraining device, for a rider of a vehicle, includes a restraining belt that is integratable or is integrated at least partly into a garment of the rider, the restraining belt being configured so as to encompass at least one bodily region of the rider, and includes a connecting element that is connectable or is connected to the restraining belt, the connecting element being configured to bind the rider detachably to the vehicle.
US09139149B2 External airbag deployment method
In an external airbag deployment method, a detection area located in front of a vehicle is set. A target object is selected from among objects detected in the detection area by comparing relative velocities, overlaps, and Time To External Airbag (TTE) values of the detected objects. It is determined whether the vehicle is stable or unstable by comparing a predicted yaw rate of the vehicle with a measured yaw rate. It is determined whether a relative velocity and an overlap of the target object, predicted at a time when the target object is assumed to collide with the vehicle, are greater than predetermined levels. The external airbag is deployed if it is determined that the vehicle is stable and the predicted relative velocity and overlap of the target object are greater than predetermined levels.
US09139143B2 Robust wires-to-meter connection
A robust and waterproof wires-to-meter connection that provides an apparatus for conducting signals from several signal-carrying, bundled wires to a circuit member that is mounted within the interior of a sealed case, and in particular an assembly for conducting the signals while providing a robust, compact and water-resistant connection between the internal main circuit and the entry wires.
US09139141B2 Pivotable bearing skate and pivotable bearing skate extendable cargo bed frame assembly
A bearing skate system for an extendable cargo bed frame assembly is provided to improve the performance of the cargo bed frame assembly. The bearing skate system has a plurality of pivotable bearing skates and each bearing skate has a pivotable skate plate having a plurality of rotating main bearings distributed along the skate plate between each side of a pivot axis of said skate plate to allow a plurality of said rotating main bearings of each skate plate to participate in supporting the cargo bed frame assembly and a cargo load on the cargo bed frame assembly when the assembly is in a closed position, in an open position, and in all intermediate positions between the closed position and the open position during extension or retraction of the cargo bed frame assembly.
US09139137B2 Vehicle interior storage pocket
A vehicle interior storage pocket includes a retaining sheet having a first side piece, a second side piece, and a resilient material extending between the first side piece and the second side piece. The resilient material is configured to bias the first and second side pieces toward one another. The vehicle interior storage pocket also includes a sleeve disposed about the retaining sheet, and configured to conceal the resilient material.
US09139135B2 System and method that minimizes hazards of blind spots while driving
A blind-spot detection and collision avoidance system and method employ a blind-spot camera located between a side-view mirror and an automobile body. A rear view mirror has an integrated display that displays an indication of objects detected in blind spots. Side and rear view cameras are also included and images captured by these cameras are used to track objects as they are moved about the perimeter of the driver's automobile. Additional sensors are used to detect when the automobile is expected to change lanes so the collision avoidance system may be activated.
US09139130B2 Light component coordination
A light coordination system for coordinating the operation of multiple lights systems/devices in multiple public safety vehicles is provided. The system includes a detection component that detects at least one vehicle and/or at least one light device on the at least one vehicle, a mode component in communication with the detection component that changes an operating mode of the system based on information from the detection component, an analysis component in communication with the mode component and the detection component that generates a light coordination scheme based on information from the detection component and the mode component, and an implementation component that implements the light coordination scheme.
US09139128B1 Alarm child car seat
An alarm child car seat having a seat with a cushioned bolstered frame, a plurality of pressure sensors in the seat bottom and seat back, a reset button disposed within one seat side, a red light and green light disposed adjacent the reset button, a CPU and Bluetooth in operational communication with an existing vehicle's electronics, wherein a first alarm of the vehicle sounds within a thirty second time lapse, the pressure sensed, the ignition off, wherein a time lapse of 90 seconds initiates a second alarm, the second alarm a call from the Bluetooth to an existing cell phone, the first alarm continued, an answer of the cell phone discontinuing the first alarm and the second alarm; and wherein a time elapse of 300 seconds initiates third alarm that signals from the existing vehicle electronics to a 911 emergency service.
US09139127B2 Vehicle-mounted display system
In one embodiment, left and right frame elements are provided in such a manner as to be movable in a horizontal direction. The left frame element has a shape of the left half of a circular ring and the right frame element has a shape of the right half of the circular ring. The frame elements are horizontally positioned away from each other such that the left frame element surrounds the left side of a circular meter image displayed on a display and the right frame element surrounds the right side of another circular meter image displayed on the display. Two frame interpolation part images are arranged and displayed on the display in a form that the two frame interpolation part images couple upper edges of the left and right frame elements to each other and couple lower edges of the left and right frame elements to each other, respectively.
US09139125B2 Coupling assembly
A coupling assembly can couple a beam to a loop of a tie-down assembly coupled to an inner sidewall of a pickup bed. The beam defines a channel, and the loop defines an aperture. The coupling assembly includes a coupling plate including a first plate body, a second plate body coupled to the first plate body, a first protrusion extending from the first plate body, a second protrusion extending from the first protrusion, a fastener, and a knob. The first protrusion is configured to be disposed through the aperture of the loop, and the second protrusion is configured to be disposed in the channel of the beam. The fastener includes a head and a threaded shaft coupled to the head. The head is configured to be disposed in the channel, and the threaded shaft extends through the second plate body. The knob is coupled to the threaded shaft.
US09139119B2 Warmer equipment and warmer device for vehicle seat
Provided are a warmer equipment which is excellent in quick warming property at a rising time and which can satisfy temperature stability later thereby to improve the comfortableness, and a warmer device for a vehicle seat. The warmer equipment includes a warming member having a heater element, a temperature controlling thermostat, a temperature detecting element for detecting the temperature of the warming member, and a temperature control circuit for controlling the temperature of the warming member with an output coming from the temperature detecting element. The temperature controlling thermostat and the temperature control circuit are connected in parallel.
US09139118B2 Ventilating device
A ventilation apparatus (500) serves to cool the seat cushion (120) of a seat (100), in particular of a vehicle seat. This seat cushion (120) has a seating surface (122), a rear face (127) and an underside (121). The underside (121) of the seat cushion (120) and the seat frame (110) form a cavity (190). The ventilation apparatus (500) has a radial fan (515) for arrangement in said cavity (190), which radial fan (515) has an inlet (512) and an outlet (518). An air distribution arrangement (530) connects to the output of a U-shaped air deflection device (520) that extends from the air outlet (518) of the radial fan (515) to an inlet (532) of the air distribution arrangement (530) and includes a plurality of air deflection conduits (525).
US09139117B2 Center arm rest with table
The invention relates to a center arm rest (01) for use in a vehicle with a console part (03), which can be directly or indirectly attached to the vehicle body, and with an arm rest (05), which is mounted on the console part so as to be swivelable about a swivel axis between a lower use position and an upper rest position, the arm rest (05) having a top side (07) for resting an arm thereon, which is padded at least in sections, and a bottom side (08) on the opposite side, which is padded at least in sections and forms part of a back rest, comprising a tray device (11), which is swivelably mounted in the center arm rest (01) and which is in an upper non-use position behind the arm rest (05) when the arm rest (05) is in the rest position, and which is swivelable about a hinge axis (12) between the non-use position and a lower use position having the tray device (11) resting on the top side of the arm rest (05) when the arm rest (05) is in the use position.
US09139113B2 Round recliner for vehicle seat
A round recliner for vehicle seat is disclosed having a holder; a sector gear coupled to the holder to be rotatable with respect to the holder; N lock gears respectively having outer teeth and moving between a locking position where the outer teeth interlock with the inner teeth and an unlocking position where the outer teeth retreat from the inner teeth; and an operating means for moving the N lock gears to the locking or unlocking positions. The holder has N lock gear guides which guide each lock gear to slide between the locking and unlocking positions, an N−1 lock gear guides to make its outer teeth fully interlock with the inner teeth of the sector gear, and the remaining 1 lock gear guide has its guide round surface to make only one side tooth surfaces of its outer teeth interlock with the inner teeth of the sector gear.
US09139112B2 Adjustment fitting
An adjustment fitting, in particular for a vehicle seat, comprising a first fitting part and a second fitting part that can be rotationally adjusted relative to the first part about an axis of rotation. An external gear, which has internal teeth and into which an internal gear that is associated with the second fitting part and has external teeth is inserted eccentrically to the axis of rotation like an eccentric gear, is associated with the first fitting part. The internal gear forms an eccentric receiving space towards the axis of rotation. The adjustment fitting further comprises an eccentric member that is rotatably inserted into the eccentric receiving space, and a drive shaft for driving the eccentric member. The external gear is designed as a ring gear that has a bottom and an external wall which axially extends beyond the internal teeth. Furthermore, a holding element is provided which can be axially slid against the internal gear in the external wall, is mounted on the external wall, and secures the internal gear against the bottom of the ring gear. The holding element allows the axial tolerance between the internal gear and the external gear to be adjusted.
US09139109B2 Drive device with electric motor and reduction gear
Drive device (1) with electric motor and reduction gear driving an output unit (8) in a motor vehicle, comprising a brushless motor (2) having a rotor turning about a rotor axis (Y2) parallel to a main axis (Y), an elliptical reduction gear (3) interposed between the brushless motor (2) and the output unit (8), said elliptical reduction gear comprising an elliptical gear and a deformable flange, deformed by the elliptical gear when it rotates, and a control unit (4) arranged in the immediate proximity of the brushless motor (2) for controlling said brushless motor. Seat frame comprising such a device.
US09139108B2 Control device and control method for electric powered vehicle
In an electric powered vehicle in which vehicle driving force for reverse running is produced by a traction motor, vehicle driving force is set by a product of a base value set at least based on an accelerator opening and an amplification factor. The amplification factor is set at k1=1.0 during reverse running (V<−Vt) and at k1>1.0 at the start of reverse running (V≧0) depending on the vehicular speed. The vehicle driving force at the start of reverse running can thereby be made larger than the vehicle driving force after the start of reverse running at the same accelerator opening.
US09139107B2 Device for improving vehicle behavior when steering
A steered condition vehicle behavior improving apparatus is provided for a vehicle, wherein the vehicle is capable of running with a road wheel driven by a driving force from a power source. The steered condition vehicle behavior improving apparatus includes a steering operation detecting means and a driving force reducing means. The steering operation detecting means detects a steering operation of steering a steerable wheel of the vehicle. The driving force reducing means temporarily reduces the driving force to the road wheel a set time period after the steering operation is detected by the steering operation detecting means.
US09139101B2 Electric/hybrid vehicle charging stands and assembly methods therefor
An improved charging stand for electric or hybrid vehicles is based upon a two-piece construction. Different top sections may be used, including a plain top with a rounded end or a decorative top which may include an optional ambient light fixture. A single fastener may be placed through the top section and into the pipe to hold the entire assembly together. An upright pipe has a cutout to receive a recharge controller with a recharge cable, the pipe further including a slot to receive the cable. A first plastic sleeve has a height below the cutout in the pipe corresponding the bottom of the slot. The recharge controller is accessible through the cutout with the cable protruding through the slot. A second plastic sleeve with a closed top and an open bottom mates with top of the first plastic sleeve with a cutout corresponding to the cutout in the pipe.
US09139100B2 Vehicle power supply apparatus
A vehicular power supply apparatus includes a Scott transformer, a first output port and a second output port. The Scott transformer is configured to convert three-phase AC power supplied from a three-phase AC power source into first and second single-phase AC powers. The first output port is for supplying the first single-phase AC power to a vehicle. The second output port is for supplying the second single-phase AC power to a vehicle.
US09139097B2 Safety cover with integrated magnet for reed switch
An electric power source supplies electrical power to an electric machine of a vehicle via a plurality of high voltage lines. A plurality of connections are disposed within a housing for connecting the high voltage lines. A cover member encloses a hidden magnet and is removably secured to the housing so that removal is necessary to obtain access to the high voltage lines. A reed switch is mounted proximate the cover member, when secured, within a magnetic field of the magnet, whereby the reed switch is closed when the cover member is secured and is open when the cover member is removed. A controller is controllably coupled to the power source via a control connector and circuit of the electric machine. Such circuit extends from the reed switch to the controller, where the controller causes the electric power source to stop supplying electrical power when the cover member is removed.
US09139096B2 One-sided detection and disabling of integrator wind up for speed control in a vehicle
A method or algorithm controls a motor in a vehicle having a proportional-integral controller. The controller determines a commanded damping control torque as a proportional output torque value and a commanded motor speed control torque as an integrator output torque value. The integrator torque output value is frozen only if the proportional torque output value saturates against a limit and the direction of the speed error is the same as that of the integrator torque output value. The proportional torque output value is calculated using different error values than are used in calculating the integrator output value. A vehicle includes one or more traction motors and the controller noted above. For two motors, the controller determines the damping torques and motor speed control torques separately for each motor.
US09139093B2 Printed matter manufacturing method, printed matter manufacturing device, and printed matter
The printed matter manufacturing method includes the steps of providing a printed layer in a predetermined pattern on a substrate, and providing an open part penetrating through the substrate and the printed layer in an open part formation region. The printed matter manufacturing method has a step of providing a buffer layer for mitigating a shock imparted to the printed layer when the open part is provided, so that the buffer layer contacts the printed layer in at least a portion of a periphery of the open part formation region.
US09139092B2 Instrument cluster and dash integration
An instrument cluster assembly mounts within a vehicle dashboard. An opening is defined within the dashboard provides for mounting of an instrument cluster assembly. The example instrument cluster assembly includes a top surface that corresponds with the top surface of the dashboard to provide a completed top visible surface when in a completed assembled condition. The instrument cluster assembly includes a first gauge and a second gauge separated by an open space therebetween. A bi-vision display is mounted in the open space between the first and second gauges. The bi-vision display generates a virtual image that is viewed by the operator between the first and second gauges.
US09139090B1 Method for judging abnormal loading of vehicles
A method for judging abnormal loading of vehicles includes the steps of: receive a plurality of tire pressures generated by a tire pressure detection unit during a plurality of inspection time periods and calculate variation amount of the tire pressures and convert to a gradient data; judge whether the gradient data is positive in value, if positive, calculate the tire pressure obtained at the last time and tire parameters via a tire sinking amount calculation formula to get a tire deformation amount, and calculate the tire pressure obtained at the last time and the tire parameters via a loading calculation formula to get a tire loading data; and compare the tire loading data and the tire deformation amount via a tire abnormal condition; judge the vehicle in abnormal loading if the tire loading data and the tire deformation amount coincide with the tire abnormal condition.
US09139089B1 Inter-vehicle middle point maintaining implementer
The vehicle comprising a rear vehicle speed dependent ideal distance maintaining implementer, a front vehicle speed dependent ideal distance maintaining implementer, and an inter-vehicle middle point maintaining implementer.
US09139086B1 Drive assembly
A transmission disposed in a housing with a power take off clutch, the clutch including a planetary gear assembly, a cage having an internal gear form engaging a first set of clutch plates, and a second set of clutch plates interleaved with the first set of clutch plates. The sun gear is engaged to and selectively driven by the second set of clutch plates, and a clutch mechanism engages the clutch plates to transmit a rotational force of the cage to the sun gear. A power take off shaft extends into the housing and is driven by the planetary gear assembly. The power take off shaft has a second axis of rotation that is perpendicular to the axis of rotation of a primary input to the transmission.
US09139081B2 Wheel assembly defining a motor/generator
The present document describes a wheel assembly defining a motor/generator. The wheel assembly comprises a plurality of stator units coaxially provided within a rotor. The stator units comprise a plurality of spokes co-centrically provided around a hub/shaft and a coil provided around at least a portion of the spokes for generating an electrical field. The rotor comprises a plurality of magnets provided on an inner periphery of the rotor facing the spokes. The rotor is rotatably attached to the hub/shaft of the stator for rotating around the stator units when the coils are activated. The coils and/or the stator units may be selectively activated and deactivated to avoid overheating.
US09139080B2 In-wheel actuator and in-wheel assembly comprising the same
An in-wheel assembly is provided, and the in-wheel assembly includes an in-wheel actuator and a wheel. The in-wheel actuator includes a driving motor; a decelerator which is disposed inside the driving motor and configured to reduce a rotational speed of the driving motor; and a hollow shaft which is disposed inside the driving motor and configured to transfer a rotational force of the driving motor to the decelerator, which is accommodated in a hollow of the hollow shaft, and circulates fluid inside of the driving motor with respect to a surface of the decelerator when driven to rotate by the driving motor. The wheel accommodates the in-wheel actuator and receives a rotational speed reduced by the decelerator to rotate.
US09139078B2 Integrated hydraulic supply pump
A hybrid electric drive system including a hydraulic power system for a hybrid powered vehicle which includes a transmission, and a combustion engine and an electric motor both mechanically coupled to the transmission to provide engine and/or motor drive power for the vehicle. A plurality of hydraulic circuits communicate with an electrically driven hydraulic pump. The hydraulic pump is configured to provide fluid circulation to the plurality of hydraulic circuits. The hydraulic circuits are each connected to the transmission and other corresponding vehicle components. An electrical power supply is configured to power the electrically driven hydraulic pump, and the electrical power supply is electrically communicating with a rechargeable high voltage (HV) battery system. The electrically driven hydraulic pump communicates with the plurality of hydraulic circuits to provide fluid pressure in the hydraulic circuits.
US09139075B2 Drive unit for a hybrid vehicle
A drive unit for a motor vehicle with hybrid drive. The drive unit includes an input shaft which may be connected to the crankshaft of an internal combustion engine of the motor vehicle, a gearbox shaft which may be connected via a toothed hub of a clutch plate as an input shaft of the downstream gearbox, and an electric machine, the rotor of which is connected rotationally fixedly to the clutches. The components are accommodated in a housing having a radially extending housing wall as a bearing wall which forms a physical separation of a chamber of the electric machine and a chamber of the clutches.
US09139074B2 Methods and devices for positioning a traction battery on a hybrid or electric vehicle
Vehicles incorporating various methods and devices for mounting a fraction battery include securing the traction battery to a structural member of the vehicle in a manner that releases the traction battery from the structural member of the vehicle in response to an external load applied to the fraction battery that exceeds a threshold. A mounting member includes a slot for guiding movement of the battery away from the external load to reduce or eliminate compressive loading of the battery. Fasteners include a guide portion that cooperates with the slot and a shear portion that secures the battery in a first position but separates from the guide portion in response to the external load to allow the battery to move to a second position away from the external load.
US09139068B2 Mix door and vehicle air conditioner using the same
A mix door includes a slide door unit, a slide driving part configured to drive the slide door unit, and a gear cover partially covering the slide driving part. The slide driving part includes a gear mechanism portion formed of a rack portion and a gear portion. The gear cover is provided to cover the gear portion.
US09139064B2 Damper assembly for vehicle suspension system with fluid damper and multi-chamber gas spring and method of controlling pre-load, spring rate and ride height
A vehicle suspension system enables active control of pre-load, spring rate, and ride height by using a fluid damper housing defining an interior chamber containing an incompressible fluid and a hollow rod supporting a piston extending into the interior chamber. The housing is movable relative to the hollow rod such that fluid volume in the interior chamber varies. A multi-chambered manifold is operatively connected to the hollow rod and has a first gas chamber in fluid communication with a second gas chamber. A first plunger, a second plunger, and a third plunger are supported by the manifold. A first actuator is operable to move the third plunger to vary a volume of the first gas chamber between the first and third plungers. A second actuator is operable to move the second plunger to vary a volume of the second gas chamber in communication with the first gas chamber.
US09139061B2 Vehicle suspension system with reservoir for air spring damping
A suspension system can include an air spring, an air reservoir external to the air spring, and a flow control device which variably restricts flow of air between the air spring and the air reservoir. Flow between the air spring and the air reservoir may be permitted in response to compliance of the suspension system, and the air spring can have an internal air volume at least 2½ times as great as a volume of the air reservoir. The flow control device may permit flow between the air spring and the air reservoir in response to a predetermined pressure differential level across the flow control device. Multiple air reservoirs can be internal to an axle, and can be isolated from each other in the axle.
US09139058B2 Flexible tow hook
A flexible tow hook assembly for a vehicle. That assembly generally includes a front rail enclosing an inner region, a through-bolt assembly, and a cable. The through-bolt passes through and secured to the front rail section, and a support structure provides structural support to the front rail at an area where the through bolt is secured to the same. The cable is substantially flexible and a tie area is attached to the cable to form a figure-eight. The cable has a smaller loop, extending around the through-bolt, and a larger loop extending from the end of the front rail. The through-bolt may extend through the front rail vertically or horizontally. The support structure may be provided by an overlap area where rail members overlap, or by mounting plates secured to the surface of the front rail at the position where the through bolt extends through the same.
US09139057B2 Installation adapter for hitch
An installation adapter includes four downwardly extending tabs which mate into the cylindrical ball tube of an underbed portion of a hitch. A center hole on the installation adapter designates a location for drilling a pilot hole upward through the bed of the pickup truck. Four arms on the installation adapter extend outward from the center hole, covering and protecting the top face of the hitch during hole sawing using the pilot hole downward through the bed material. The installation adapter is preferably molded from a brightly colored polymer material.
US09139056B2 Vehicle regulating system control device and method for determining vehicle tire states
A control device for a vehicle regulating system is configured to pick up driving state measurement signals from driving state sensors of the vehicle and determine reaction properties of the vehicle wheels from the signals. The control device is configured to also pick up roadway measurement signals of a spectroscopic sensor that is aligned with a roadway surface and determine therefrom the presence and/or properties of a layer of water on the roadway surface. The control device determines tire properties of the tires on the basis of the determined reaction properties of the vehicle wheels and the roadway measurement signals.
US09139053B2 Tire position determination system and tire pressure monitoring system
Each tire pressure detector detects a characteristic point in a detection signal of an acceleration sensor indicating that the tire pressure detector is located at a certain rotation position. When detecting the characteristic point, the tire pressure detector transmits a notification signal including the detector ID. Whenever a receiver receives a notification signal, the receiver acquires an axle rotation amount of a representative wheel and stores the axle rotation amount in a memory in association with the detector ID in the notification signal. After acquiring axle rotation amounts associated with the detector IDs of all of the tire pressure detectors, the receiver determines mounting positions of tires from the angle each tire pressure detector rotated and the angle each axle rotated between a first determination timing and a second determination timing.
US09139050B2 Pneumatic tire having first and second turnup pads
A pneumatic tire construction is described suitable for severe loading conditions. The tire includes a bead portion further having an apex which extends radially outward of the bead core, and a first turn-up pad located adjacent said chafer, and a second turn-up pad located adjacent said first turn-up pad, wherein the first turn-up pad has a G′ less than the G′ of the second turn-up pad. Alternatively, the first turn-up pad may be located adjacent to the rim flange and the second turn-up pad may be located axially inward of the first pad. The second turn-up pad is preferably thicker and longer than the first turn-up pad.
US09139049B2 Tire
An object the present invention is to provide a tire having a rib-like land portion and sipes provided therein, in which wear resistance has been enhanced by optimizing the shape of the sipes, while good fraction performance on a wet road surface is maintained. The tire has, in a tread portion, at least one row of rib-like land portion and sipes provided in the rib-like land portion. Further, depth of each sipe at least at one end portion thereof on the shoulder side is smaller than depth of the sipe at the remaining portions thereof.
US09139046B2 Adjustable insert for a tire
An adjustable insert for a tire. A tire includes an annular body of elastomeric material. The annular body may include a plurality of unpressurized cavities. A plurality of adjustable inserts may be arranged in the plurality of unpressurized cavities. The adjustable inserts may have an expandable portion sized to fit in a portion of the unpressurized cavities. The adjustable insert may be configured to adjust a compression of each cavity and modify the deflection rate of the tire.
US09139043B1 Central-controlled double wheel structure
A central-controlled double wheel structure allows accurate performance in controlling the direction of movement of transporting devices when a braking block, a direction limiting member, and a toothed braking member are stably and properly intermeshed, thereby ensuring transporting devices to move in a preset straight direction. The double wheel structure has braking pads that are connected to bridging plates which are in turn connected to a connecting seat, and positioning of the braking pads is controlled by the upward or downward movement of the connecting seat as the bridging plates act as a lever structure with the axial rod as the axis. Further, the serrated cogging ends of the braking pads may intermesh into the cogging teeth of the wheel bodies to effectively stop the movement of transporting devices without subjecting the braking pads and the wheel bodies to extensive wearing.
US09139042B2 Sealing device for a hub-wheel assembly
A sealing device for a hub-wheel assembly that includes a rolling bearing is provided. The sealing device being has a screen assembled on an outer ring of the bearing and has an annular cylindrical wall, having an internal lateral surface press fit along an external lateral surface of a collar of the outer ring. The internal surface has a respective inner diameter (Di) and the external lateral surface has a respective outer diameter (De). A static sealing element is constrained to the screen; the ratio of the interference between inner diameter (Di) and outer diameter (De) over a screen thickness ranging between 0.22 and 0.5; a coupling length (L, L′) between the internal lateral surface and the external lateral surface is equal or greater than 5 mm; and a ratio between outer diameter (De) of the external lateral surface and coupling length (L, L′) ranging between 1 and 1.19.
US09139040B2 Omni-directional wheel assembly
The kit includes a hub having a central axis and a perimeter. The perimeter comprises a plurality of flat spoke faces extending therearound. A spoke assembly is releasably couplable to each spoke face. Each spoke assembly is aligned with an adjacent spoke assembly to form a spoke. A method of assembling the wheel assembly is also provided.
US09139039B2 Automobile wheel
An automobile wheel includes first bottom portions provided inward in a radial direction of a front side bead seat portion and a back side bead seat portion between the front side bead seat portion and back side bead seat portion and second bottom portions provided inward in the radial direction of the first bottom portions. The first bottom portions and second bottom portions are alternately provided in a circumferential direction. This configuration increases difference in area between area of a cross section in the radial direction of a tire-internal space in sections where the first bottom portions are provided and area of a cross section in the radial direction in sections where the second bottom portions are provided and thus allows improvement in an effect of reducing cavity resonant noise.
US09139037B2 Erasable and replaceable tool label
A reusable and replaceable tool label has a thin rigid body, an adhesive coating, and a removable liner. The thin rigid body is built from first face and a second face, which are connected by a lateral surface. The first face is a writable surface, and is used to record measurements, notes, and other information to the label. The second face allows the label to be attached to tools and other surface, by means of the adhesive coating that is placed on the second face. To prevent the label from sticking to a surface during packaging, transport, and storage, a removable liner is placed over the adhesive coating. The removable liner has a linear cut that makes the removable liner easier to grab. A tab may be connected to the removable linear to make peeling the removable liner away from the adhesive coating even easier.
US09139036B2 Writing device
An apparatus comprises a writing device and an electronic device. The electronic device comprises a headphone socket and the writing device is elongate and comprises first and second ends. The first end is shaped to be received by and releasably retained in the headphone socket of the electronic device. The second end is shaped to allow a user to withdraw the writing device from the headphone socket of the electronic device when the first end is retained in the headphone socket. In a first, housed configuration the first end is releasably retained in the headphone socket and the second end is exposed remote from the electronic device. In a second, writable configuration the second end is releasably retained in the headphone socket and the first end is exposed remote from the electronic device to enable the writing device, in combination with the electronic device, to be used to write with.
US09139035B2 Production method for a booklet, and a booklet
In a production method for a booklet having an over-size cover sheet, first all the pages of the booklet are joined together and connected. Thereupon the cover sheet is at first folded aside and the remaining sheets are cut to the desired format. Subsequently, the cover sheet is brought to the desired over-size format in a special method, preferably using a laser beam. A booklet in which the cover sheet is cut in different manner than the remaining stack of sheets is produced according to the production process indicated above.
US09139033B2 Image forming apparatus
An image forming apparatus includes an access cover that opens/closes relative to an apparatus body, a carriage that includes an image forming device and moves in a moving area which is exposed when the cover is opened, a first detector that detects that the cover has been opened from a fully closed position to a first position, a second detector that detects that the cover has been opened to a second position at which the cover is more open than at the first position, a drive source that drives the carriage to move, and a controller that brakes the drive source while the drive source is supplied with power when the first detector detects that the cover has been opened to the first position, and cuts off power supply to the drive source when the second detector detects that the cover has been opened to the second position.
US09139032B2 Adjustable heating device for use in an erasing apparatus
A heating device includes first and second heating rollers and first and second pressing rollers. The first pressing roller and the second heating roller forms a first unit, and the second pressing roller and the first heating roller forms a second unit that is rotatable about a rotational axis relative to the first unit. The heating device also includes an eccentric shaft unit disposed on one of the first unit and the second unit and extending in a direction parallel to the rotational axis, a rotational position of an eccentric portion of the eccentric shaft unit being changeable, and an engaging unit disposed on the other one of the first unit and the second unit, and configured to engage with the eccentric shaft, a position of the second unit relative to the first unit being adjusted when the rotational position of the eccentric portion of the eccentric shaft unit is changed.
US09139028B1 Printing apparatus and control program for printing apparatus
Provided is a printing apparatus including: a head unit that is provided with a discharge unit which discharges a liquid; a carriage into which the head unit is built; a power delivery unit that delivers at least a part of supplied power to the head unit; and a power supply unit that supplies power to the power delivery unit, in which the power delivery unit is provided with a first conductor and a second conductor, wherein power that is supplied from the power supply unit is delivered to the head unit through a coupling capacitance that is formed by the first conductor and the second conductor, and in which the power supply unit supplies different amounts of power to the power delivery unit depending on a type of a recording medium that is in a transport pathway.
US09139025B2 Measurement apparatus, printing apparatus and control method
A carriage including a sensor scans a printing medium, and a measurement value measured by the sensor is stored in a memory over the scanning range. When a predetermined event occurs, storage control for storing the measurement value in the memory is performed.
US09139022B2 Recording apparatus
Provided is a recording apparatus that includes a setting portion in which a recording medium is set, a head portion which discharges ink onto the recording medium, a transporting roller portion which is provided at a portion between the setting portion and the head portion in a transporting path of the recording medium and transports the recording medium, a blower which blows air to a recording surface side of the recording medium transported by the transporting roller portion and to a portion between the transporting roller portion and the head portion, and an ion generator which is provided at a portion between the blower and the recording surface side of the recording medium, in the air blowing path of air blown by the blower.
US09139019B2 Marking device for marking an object with marking light
The invention relates to a marking device for marking an object (1) with marking light. The marking device comprises a plurality of marking modules (10a-d) for emitting marking light, and a base unit (20) to which the plurality of marking modules (10a-d) is connected wherein the base unit (20) comprises a control unit (25) for controlling the plurality of marking modules (10a-d). The plurality of marking modules (10a-d) comprises at least a first marking module (10a) and a second marking module (10b) which employ different marking technologies.
US09139018B2 Printing apparatus and printing method
To provide a printing apparatus without waste of a ribbon panel in using a two-side dedicated ribbon, a printing apparatus 1 capable of printing on both surfaces of a printing medium performs two-side printing using an ink ribbon 41 with a color ribbon panel 41a and monochrome ribbon panel 41b configured in a face sequential manner. At this point, the apparatus detects a position of each ribbon panel, judges a type (color or monochrome) of a next usable nearest ribbon panel of the ink ribbon 41, judges which type of the ribbon panel (color or monochrome) is used for printing data sent from a higher apparatus 201, and compares the type of the next usable nearest ribbon panel with the ribbon panel judged with the printing data to determine the printing order on the printing medium.
US09139014B2 Inkjet recording apparatus
Conveyance of a sheet in an inkjet recording apparatus may be stopped under various conditions. In one example, a control device of the inkjet recording apparatus may stop conveyance on the sheet depending on the image to be formed in one or more portions of the sheet. Alternatively or additionally, conveyance may be stopped based on an amount of ink ejected or to be ejected onto a sheet, or portion thereof. The conveyance stoppage control may be used in conjunction with a corrugate mechanism in some arrangements.
US09139011B2 Tank unit and liquid ejecting system having tank unit
A tank unit includes two or more liquid accommodating containers disposed in a row. Each of the liquid accommodating containers includes a main body having a concave shape defining a side opening and a film that blocks the side opening. The main body and the film at least partially define a liquid accommodating chamber for accommodating a liquid. The main body includes a facing wall that faces the film across the liquid accommodating chamber and has a wall larger than the side opening. The liquid accommodating containers are disposed such that the film of at least one of the liquid accommodating containers is covered by the facing wall of an adjacent one of the liquid accommodating containers.
US09139006B2 Wiper device and liquid ejecting apparatus
A wiper device allows a liquid ejecting head that ejects a dispersion liquid in which solid particles are dispersed in a liquid from nozzles and a wiping member to move relative to each other so as to wipe the dispersion liquid that adheres to a nozzle formation surface using the wiping member. The wiping member includes a first layer positioned on the nozzle formation surface side, and a second layer positioned on the opposite side to the nozzle formation surface with respect to the first layer. The first layer guides liquid droplets which are dispersion media of the dispersion liquid that adheres to the nozzle formation surface to the second layer through a capillary action and has voids that are able to capture and accommodate a dispersoid of the dispersion liquid. The second layer absorbs the dispersion media.
US09139002B2 Method for making an ink jet print head front face having a textured superoleophobic surface
A method of making an ink jet print head front face or nozzle plate having a textured superoleophobic surface that prevents undesirable drooling, wetting and/or adhesion of the ink on the print head. The textured surface includes a rim formed around the nozzle. Also described are methods for forming the textured superoleophobic ink jet print head front face or nozzle plate from silicon having the textured, oleophobic surface.
US09139001B2 Inkjet print head and method for manufacturing the same
An inkjet print head includes a jet assembly, a printed-circuit board and a barrier coating film. The jet assembly includes a nozzle plate including a jet orifice in a lower surface of the nozzle plate and through which ink is discharged, and an ink transfer pathway inside nozzle plate. The printed-circuit board is combined with the jet assembly. The printed-circuit board includes an integrated circuit and a connection electrode. The barrier coating film includes organic material, a flexible layer and a hydrophobic layer. The barrier coating film covers an inner and an outer surface of the jet assembly, and an outer surface of the printed-circuit board. The barrier coating film exposes the lower surface of the nozzle plate and an outer surface of the connection electrode.
US09138999B2 Ink jet head and image forming apparatus
An ink jet head according to an embodiment comprises a substrate including amounting surface and a pressure chamber open to the mounting surface, the substrate having a first expansion coefficient. The ink jet head further comprises a vibration plate including a first surface fixed to the mounting surface of the substrate, a second surface located on the opposite side of the first surface, an opening portion open to the pressure chamber, a first portion having a second expansion coefficient different from the first expansion coefficient, and a second portion having a third expansion coefficient different from the second expansion coefficient. The ink jet head further comprises a piezoelectric element provided on the second surface of the vibration plate and configured to deform the vibration plate to thereby change a volume of the pressure chamber.
US09138998B2 Liquid drop ejecting head, image forming device, and method of manufacturing liquid drop ejecting head
A liquid drop ejecting head includes a a nozzle plate to form nozzles, a liquid chamber substrate including one surface bonded to the nozzle plate and forming liquid chambers provided for the nozzles and communicating with the nozzles, a diaphragm bonded to the other surface of the liquid chamber substrate to form a part of each liquid chamber, and a pressure generating unit giving pressure oscillation to the diaphragm in accordance with a liquid drop eject signal to exert pressure on a liquid in each liquid chamber through the diaphragm. In the liquid drop ejecting head, a protection film is formed on an inner side wall of each liquid chamber by a chemical reaction of fluorocarbon and silicon fluoride oxide of a by-product formed on the inner side wall of the liquid chamber with the formation of the liquid chambers in the liquid chamber substrate.
US09138993B2 Method of ink application on substrate
A method of ink application on a substrate having a plurality of reference marks includes a step of setting a plurality of divided areas on the substrate and measuring positions of the reference marks in each of the divided areas, a step of acquiring a deviation amount of a gravity center of a measured figure defined by the positions of the reference marks, a step of acquiring a corrected applied position by correcting a designed applied position on the basis of the deviation amount of the gravity center, and a step of applying ink onto the substrate according to the corrected applied position.
US09138992B2 Reception device and apparatus having the same
Data transfer is realized to support a high-speed and complex driving control of the driving element. A driving device includes a driving unit configured to supply a driving element with a pulse signal that determines a driving period to drive the driving element, an input unit configured to receive, in synchronization with a trigger signal, a data signal containing first information, second information, a first flag and a second flag that determine a waveform of the pulse signal, a first setting unit configured to set in the driving unit the first information that is input to the input unit, a retaining unit configured to read and retain the second information on the basis of the first flag, and a second setting unit configured to set in the driving unit the second information that is retained in the retaining unit on the basis of the second flag.
US09138991B2 Printing apparatus and control method thereof
One aspect of this invention is directed to suitable drive control in accordance with an output from the temperature sensor of a printhead. More specifically, a printing apparatus by using a printhead that includes heaters and a temperature sensor on a substrate and discharges ink by driving the heaters executes the following steps. First, when printing a test pattern by using a predetermined driving pulse in a maintenance mode, a detected temperature is stored as a reference temperature in a memory. Then, in a normal printing mode, the difference between a detected temperature and the stored reference temperature is calculated, and a driving pulse for driving the printhead is selected from a plurality of driving pulses based on the difference. The printhead is controlled to be driven using the selected driving pulse and print.
US09138989B2 Printing control apparatus and printing control method for distributing quantized image data
In a printing apparatus capable of printing the same pixel by a plurality of print elements, a print speed is increased, and further, a partial frequency of use of each of the print elements is reduced, so as to prolong the lifetime of the print head. In view of this, dithering is used as a pseudo-halftone representing method, and further, a distribution pattern for use in creating image data to be distributed to each of the plurality of print elements is switched.
US09138979B2 Low peel force surface protection film and method of using same
A method of protecting a smooth surfaced substrate by a surface protection film that has improved high temperature peel force properties and low residue upon removal of the surface protection film from the smooth surfaced substrate.
US09138977B2 Process for forming a laminated structure
There is provided a process for forming a laminated structure, the process comprising the step of bonding a polymer film to an array of structures disposed on a substrate, and wherein a plurality of cavities are formed between the polymer film and the array of structures during the bonding.
US09138973B1 Method for transferring nanostructures
A method for transferring nanostructures includes providing a growth substrate and a number of nanostructures located on the growth substrate. The nanostructures are transferred by an adhesive layer from the growth substrate to a target substrate. The nanostructures are between the target substrate and the adhesive layer, and at least partial of nanostructures is in contact with a surface of the target substrate. The adhesive layer is covered by a metal layer. The adhesive layer together with the metal layer is separated from the nanostructures and the target substrate in an organic solvent by an external force, wherein the organic solvent permeates into an interface between the adhesive layer and the nanostructures.
US09138971B2 Method and apparatus for adhesive bond curing
Portable apparatus for curing a part includes a wheeled frame having sliding part supports that move the part from a loading position to a curing position. A part clamping assembly is slidably mounted on the frame to apply clamping pressure to the part when the part is in the curing position in order to compact the part during a cure cycle. The clamping assembly includes a set of electrically heated shoes that heat the part to a cure temperature. A fan is provided to accelerate cool down the part after curing is complete. The heating and cooling operations are automatically performed by a programmed controller.
US09138970B2 Thermally shrinkable laminated film
Disclosed is a thermally shrinkable laminated film which is produced by laminating an intermediate layer comprising a block copolymer resin composition containing a specific block copolymer directly between a front layer and a back layer each comprising a polyester resin, and which has good interlayer adhesion strength. Specifically disclosed is a thermally shrinkable laminated film which is produced by stretching a three-layered laminated sheet along at least one axis so that the interlayer adhesion strength becomes 0.6 N/15 mm or more, wherein the three-layered laminated sheet has an intermediate layer and a front layer and a back layer, the intermediate layer comprises a resin composition comprising two types of block copolymers each having a specific structure and a specific composition at a predetermined mass ratio, and each of the front layer and the back layer comprises a polyester resin.
US09138969B2 Insulation sheets prepared from unseparated mixtures of post-consumer plastic articles
A process for the preparation of thermal insulation sheets fashioned from certain unseparated mixtures of post-consumer plastic articles and the article, itself, is disclosed. The mixtures of such articles contain polyethylene terephthalate (PET) and polystyrene (PS) and optionally also articles made of high density polyethylene (HDPE). An unseparated mixture of such articles is provided. This mixture is crushed and shredded to form plastic flakes, and these plastic flakes are then homogenized. Homogenization of the flakes can be carried out either by melt-blending them or by further comminution to produce very fine particles of the mixed plastics. The resulting homogenized mixture of plastic types is then compression molded into sheets ranging in thickness from about 3 to 10 mm.
US09138967B2 Wood laminate articles comprising substituted cellulose ester adhesives and methods relating thereto
Wood laminates may comprise a plurality of wood substrates and an adhesive disposed between at least a portion of at least two of the wood substrates, the adhesive comprising a substituted cellulose ester that comprises a cellulose polymer backbone having an organic ester substituent and an inorganic ester substituent that comprises an inorganic, nonmetal atom selected from the group consisting of sulfur, phosphorus, boron, and chlorine. In some instances the adhesive may be substantially formaldehyde-free.
US09138965B2 Conductive fibrous materials
As consistent with various embodiments, an electronic device includes a fibrous material having a conductive coating thereon. The conductive coating includes conductive nanoparticles coupled to fibers in the fibrous material. The structure is implemented in connection with a variety of devices, such as a capacitive device or a battery. Other embodiments are directed to forming conductive fibrous sheets, in dispersing a nanomaterial in a solution and applying the solution to a fibrous sheet, such as commercial paper, to form a conductive sheet.
US09138964B2 Surface-treated copper foil
An object of the present invention is to provide a copper foil excellent in softening resistance performance which reduces decrease in tensile strength after heat treatment at about 350° C. to 400° C. In order to achieve the object, a surface-treated copper foil provided with a rust-proofing treatment layer on both surfaces of a copper foil in which a rust-proofing treatment layer is constituted by zinc alloy, and the either rust-proofing treatment layer is a zinc alloy layer having zinc amount of 20 mg/m2 to 1,000 mg/m2; and the copper foil contains one or two or more of small amount elements selected from carbon, sulfur, chlorine and nitrogen, and a sum amount thereof is 100 ppm or more is adopted.
US09138963B2 Low sulfur nickel base substrate alloy and overlay coating system
A coated article having an improved coating oxidation life includes a superalloy substrate material having a composition which includes sulfur, herein the sulfur is present in an amount less than 1 ppm; and an overlay coating formed over a surface of the substrate material.
US09138961B2 High performance laminated tapes and related products for ballistic applications
Highly uniform woven fibrous structures formed from fibrous tapes, wherein the tapes constitute the warp and weft tapes of a woven fabric. The individual fibrous tapes may be woven or non-woven, and may be formed as narrow tapes or may be cut from a wider fabric web.
US09138956B2 Screw separator
A screw separator for separating solids out of suspensions, having at least one housing and at least one feed pipe for the suspension, at least one discharge pipe for liquids, and at least one outlet for the at least partially dewatered solids. At least one strainer basket is provided in the housing in which a screw is rotatably mounted where at least one press basket is mounted downstream of the strainer basket, and the strainer basket is received in the housing radially floating and the press basket, radially fixed.
US09138952B2 Method of and apparatus for manufacturing a tire bead
A triangular-shaped filler rubber is held in an upright posture to be wound around an outer peripheral surface of a bead core supported by a rotary support body, and in joining a leading end and a trailing end of the filler rubber cut to a predetermined length, the neighborhood of the leading end and the neighborhood of the trailing end, respectively, are interposed by first and second interposing means, and one of the interposing means is displaced toward the other from a state, in which the leading end and the trailing end are opposed to each other whereby end surfaces of the leading end and the trailing end are butted against each other.
US09138948B2 Suspended and compact fiber optic sensors
A compact, optically double-ended sensor probe with at least one 180° bend provided in the optical fiber in close proximity to a fiber Bragg grating temperature sensor suspends the optical fiber within a casing in such a way that the expansion and contract of the probe casing will not materially influence the temperature reading of the fiber Bragg grating by adding time varying or temperature varying stress components.
US09138945B2 Load carrying apparatus and method of manufacture
A polymeric load carrying apparatus (10) and method of manufacture is disclosed. The apparatus comprises an outer shell composition and a filled inner core composition within the outer shell composition. The outer shell composition comprises less than 10% filler, and preferably substantially no filler, by weight, and the inner core composition comprises more than 15% filler, and preferably at least 40% filler, by weight. The filler is preferably a mineral sand.
US09138943B2 Composite sheet material and method for forming the same
A composite sheet material and method for forming the same is provided that includes a substrate, a matrix, and a cover sheet. The substrate has a first face surface, a second face surface, and a plurality of edges, and includes a thermoplastic material. The matrix is attached to the substrate. The matrix includes a support component having a first melting point, and a thermoplastic component having a second melting point. The second melting point is less than the first melting point. The cover sheet imparts one or more surface characteristics to the composite sheet material during thermo-pressure formation of the composite sheet material.
US09138942B2 Composite structure manufacturing method and apparatus
A manufacturing apparatus employs three-dimensional (3D) printing technology and computer numerical controlled (CNC) positioning technology that creates composite structures of any size. The composite structures exhibit predefined characteristics suitable for different applications. The composite structures consist of plastic sheathing melded together to form bladders, as well as fabric impregnated with one or more resin-based compounds. The composite structures assume any of a myriad of predefined shapes. The composite structures exhibit fire-resistance, water-resistance, water containment, phase-change capability, ballistic protection, low weight, and may further be operable as a solar panel or be electrically conductive. The composite structures are optionally constructed with vias or pathways, through which pipes, electrical conduit, and other building materials may be threaded. The 3D printing and CNC technologies create the composite structures by printing them, already inpregnated and selectively cured. The composite structures are optionally inflated so as to take on an intended shape.
US09138940B2 Winchester print head
An apparatus to receive a filament material and to move the filament while guiding a direction of movement of the filament comprising: a metal block that defines a first guide passage sized to receive the filament; wherein the block includes a first plate that includes a first surface that defines a first groove and includes a second plate that includes a second surface that defines a second groove; and wherein the first and second faces of the first and second plates are in abutting contact with the first and second grooves aligned to define the first guide passage; a drive mechanism configured to move the filament into the first guide passage.
US09138937B2 Disposable hygiene article, surgical covering item, or surgical garment
A disposable hygiene article (2), such as an incontinence diaper or incontinence pad has a composite non-woven fabric (38) that is provided with at least one cuff element (16) and a non-woven fabric or film component (10, 12). The cuff element (14) is attached to the non-woven fabric or film component (10, 12) in at least some areas by means of a joining pattern (36) encompassing discrete ultrasonic welding points (30) in order to form the composite non-woven fabric (38). At least some sections of the joining pattern (36) are curved. The joining pattern has a maximum index (I) of variation of the ultrasonic welding points of 40 percent. An area seized by the welding points has a density within the joining pattern which decreases in rear and front end portions along endwards directed and inwardly curved extensions of the joining pattern.
US09138935B2 Process for producing an antistatic yarn
A process for producing an antistatic yarn includes the steps of: (a) providing antistatic composite filaments having carbon black dispersed therein; (b) advancing the antistatic composite filaments to a first heating zone at a first advancing speed which ranges from 230 m/min to 330 m/min; (c) drawing the antistatic composite filaments from the first heating zone to a false twist zone at a second advancing speed such that a draw ratio of the second advancing speed to the first advancing speed ranges from 1.5 to 1.75, thereby obtaining false twisted filaments; and (d) heat-setting the false twisted filaments so as to obtain a permanent antistatic crimped yarn.
US09138930B2 Extrusion blow molding method for plastic containers, especially plastic bottles
An extrusion blow-molding method for plastic containers, for example, plastic bottles, is disclosed, wherein a one- or multi-layer plastic tube is extruded with a predetermined extrusion pressure through an annular gap, which is delimited by an extrusion die provided on an extrusion head and a axially adjustable mandrel and which can be adjusted with regard to the width thereof. The extruded plastic tube is introduced into a mold cavity of a blow-molding tool arrangement, blow-molded into a plastic container in accordance with the mold cavity by overpressure and then demolded. Additional plastic material is added in metered quantity to the extruded plastic tube at least in some regions in the direct vicinity of the mouth of the extrusion die. The additional plastic material is introduced through one or more discharge nozzles distributed across the circumference with a pressure that is higher than the extrusion pressure such that the plastic material is locally compressed and that, after passing the extrusion die, the plastic tube in the regions provided with the additional plastic material has a greater wall thickness than the remaining plastic tube.
US09138926B2 Apparatus and method for injection molding
An apparatus simultaneously operates all split locking nuts of an injection molding machine two-platen clamp unit to engage and disengage the split locking nuts with clamp unit strain rods. Each split locking nut has opposed pivoting nut halves operated by coupling rotation of a rotating member through a predetermined angular range to the nut halves via translating members such as push rods. The push rods are pivotably connected to the rotating member and to the nut halves so that the direction of each push rod relative to the rotating member and to the nut half changes with rotation of the rotating member. A method of molding comprises: disengaging split locking nuts from strain rods; positioning a moveable platen assembly to abut mating mold components; simultaneously operating the split locking nuts to engage the strain rods; and, applying force to the abutted mold components sufficient for injection and cure of melt.
US09138922B2 Load bearing panel member
A load bearing panel member having a first portion, a second portion, and an appearance surface portion is formed by injection molding such that the first portion includes a plurality of ribs forming a grid pattern on the first portion and another plurality of ribs extending toward the periphery of the first portion which may be non-orthogonal to each other and to the ribs forming the grid pattern. An internal channel may be formed within each of the non-orthogonal ribs by injecting a gas into the rib during the molding process forming the panel. An appearance surface portion attached to the first portion and second portion of the panel member forms an integral hinge between the first and second portions of the panel member. The panel member may be configured as a floor panel of a vehicle.
US09138921B2 Foam-in-bag apparatus with power-failure protection
Exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure can provide a foam-in-bag device. The device can include a dispenser unit configured for dispensing a fluid foam-precursor into a web of film material for making foam-in-bag packaging material, a fluid supply conduit connected to the dispenser unit for delivering the foam-precursor to the dispenser unit, a valve connected to the dispenser outlet and that is actuatable between: an open condition allowing flow of the foam-precursor so as to permit the dispensing of the foam precursor, and a closed condition preventing flow of the-foam precursor so as to prevent the dispensing of the foam precursor. The device can further include a power-loss protection mechanism configured to direct auxiliary power to actuate the valve to the closed condition upon a loss of incoming power.
US09138917B1 Designing and manufacturing vehicle floor trays
The three-dimensional positions of points on a surface of a vehicle foot well are digitally measured and are stored in a memory. The stored points are used to construct an electronic model of the vehicle foot well surface. The electronic model of the vehicle foot well surface in turn is used to construct an electronic three-dimensional image of the vehicle floor tray. A vehicle tray data file is created from the electronic three-dimensional image. The data file is in turn used to make a mold for a vehicle floor tray, and vehicle floor trays are manufactured by molding polymer material in the mold.
US09138915B2 Method for producing resin composition
A method is provided for producing a resin composition in which the fiber length of the fibrous filler contained in the resin composition is controlled. The method includes a step of feeding a resin (A) and a fibrous filler (B) to an extruder, melt-kneading and then extruding them. The extruder includes a cylinder, a screw mounted in the cylinder, a main feed port provided in the cylinder, and a side feed port provided rearwards from the main feed port in the extrusion direction. Part of the resin (A) and part of a fibrous filler (B) having a weight-average fiber length of not less than 1 mm are fed through the main feed port and the rest of the resin (A) and the rest of the fibrous filler (B) having a weight-average fiber length of not less than 1 mm are fed through the side feed port.
US09138914B1 Masonry veneer machine
A masonry veneer machine is disclosed having adjustable fingers for applying the proper amount of pressure to the brick against a guide. The adjustable fingers are disposed on the lateral side of the saw blade, whereas, the guide is disposed on an arbor side of the saw blade. This provides for quick adjustments to the fingers and guide when changing over from cutting bricks of a first size to bricks of a second size which are significantly different from each other.
US09138911B2 Control method, control device and processing apparatus
The control circuit controls the plotter provided with the feeding means for feeding out a roll paper and the processing means for processing the roll paper which is fed out by the feeding means. The control circuit includes the feeding control section which controls the feeding means so that, before the processing means starts processing on one page of the roll paper, a plurality of pages including the one page is fed out in advance and then, the page having been fed out in advance is pulled back and retreated at a position on an upstream side with respect to a processing position of the processing means, and the processing control section which controls the processing means so that processing of the one page is started when an elapsed time of the one page having been fed out in advance has reached a predetermined stand-by time.
US09138908B2 Material trimmer with cut-line indicator
A material trimmer for trimming sheet material having a blade slidingly engageable with the sheet material along a cutline and an indicator indicative of the approximate location of the cutline. The indicator provides for ready and correct orientation of the sheet material within the material trimmer. In one set of embodiments, the blade is attached to a carriage or trolley adapted for sliding translation along a portion of a guide. The guide is operatively connected to a base. The indicator is disposed in relation to a slot provided in the guide overlaying the sheet material orientated on the base. The indicator may comprise a cord operatively connected to the guide. The tension of the indicator is maintained or adjusted through manipulation of one or more tensioners operatively connected to the guide.
US09138907B2 Feather cutter and feather imping pin
Feather cutters are described that cut a feather shaft of a feather. One feather cutter includes a first sildable arm and a second sildable arm that move in a linear direction with respect to each other between a first position and a second position, a plurality of springs that are placed between the first sildable arm and the second sildable arm, an adjustable blade that is attached to the first sildable arm via a screw and cuts the feather shaft of the feather upon moving the first sildable arm to the second position, a shaft cylinder with two slits that is attached to the second sildable arm and the feather shaft of the feather is placed within the shaft cylinder to hold the feather shaft which is being cut with the adjustable blade in a fixed position.
US09138903B2 Kicker assist mechanism
Techniques involving a kicker assist mechanism and other functionality are described. In one or more implementations, the techniques describe a device that includes a lever coupled to a stop-pin and configured to cause deployment of a blade from a handle of a folding knife. The lever may be configured to pivot about the stop-pin in response to a push or pull force directed at one end of the lever and engage the blade with an opposing end of the lever with a force to cause the deployment of the blade. The blade may be configured to deploy in a pivotal movement from a closed position of the folding knife to a deployed position in response to the force employed by the opposing end of the lever.
US09138902B2 Robot
A robot includes a base; a swivel unit rotatably arranged on the base; a lower arm having a base end portion, a tip end portion and a side surface, the base end portion rotatably supported on the swivel unit to enable the lower arm to swing in a front-rear direction; and first and second cable bundles arranged on the side surface of the lower arm to extend along a longitudinal direction of the lower arm. The robot further includes a cable bundle support mechanism including a guide unit for supporting the first and second cable bundles to move in the longitudinal direction of the lower arm.
US09138901B2 Transfer device, substrate processing system and posture control unit
A transfer device can control a posture of a holding table accurately and prevent the holding table from wobbling even when the holding table is moved at a high speed. A first posture holding link 56 and a second posture holding link 57 are provided at the transfer device. One end of the first posture holding link 56 and one end of the second posture holding link 57 are rotatably connected to a connecting shaft 53. Rails 51 and 52 are fastened to a base plate 27 of the holding table 21. Rollers 54 and 55 are connected to the connecting shaft 53 to be rotated about an axis line. The rollers 54 and 55 are in contact with roller driving portions 51a and 52a. When the holding table 21 is moved, the rollers 54 and 55 are rotated on the roller driving portions 51a and 52a.
US09138900B2 Transport for material picking up and placing
A transport configured to cooperate with a mechanical arm to pick up and place rubber plugs, includes a housing, a piston assembly received in the housing and a pickup assembly. The pickup assembly includes a guide base and a pickup member. The guide base defines a second receiving cavity. The housing also defines a first receiving cavity coupling with the second receiving cavity. A first tracheal joint and a second tracheal joint are provided on the housing. The piston assembly is slidably received in the first receiving cavity and driven by the first tracheal joint. The piston assembly defines a channel coupling with the second tracheal joint. The pickup member includes a connecting portion and an ejection portion inserting through the connecting portion. The connecting portion is received in the second receiving cavity. The ejection portion defines an air vent.
US09138897B1 Mechanisms for employment with robotic extensions
Technologies pertaining to a robotic hand are described herein. A protection apparatus is positioned in a joint of the robotic hand, where movement of a link about the joint is driven by a motor. The protection apparatus absorbs torque about the joint caused by an external force. At least a portion of the robotic hand can be covered by an anthropomorphic skin. An apparatus suitable for controlling operation of the robotic hand is also described herein.
US09138894B2 Industrial robot having electronic drive devices distributed on the robot structure
In an industrial robot, the electronic drive devices for the electrical supply and control of electric motors of the robot are distributed on the robot structure, each being adjacent to the respective electric motor. The electronic drive devices are connected in series to each other and to a central processing unit. In this series connection an Ethernet line is included for communication of the electronic drive devices with the central processing unit. Thanks to this series connection, the robot harness is dramatically simplified and the operations for its replacement are consequently easier and faster. The structure of the connectors between the robot and the control unit is also greatly simplified.
US09138891B2 Server connectivity control for tele-presence robot
A robot system with a robot that has a camera and a remote control station that can connect to the robot. The connection can include a plurality of privileges. The system further includes a server that controls which privileges are provided to the remote control station. The privileges may include the ability to control the robot, joint in a multi-cast session and the reception of audio/video from the robot. The privileges can be established and edited through a manager control station. The server may contain a database that defines groups of remote control station that can be connected to groups of robots. The database can be edited to vary the stations and robots within a group. The system may also allow for connectivity between a remote control station at a user programmable time window.
US09138889B2 Supporting structure for a working station
The present invention provides a supporting structure of a maintenance platform. The maintenance platform includes a main plate, a supporting module, a plurality of supporting plates, and a plurality of transverse rods. The main plate is provided on the supporting module. The transverse rods penetrate the main plate in a transverse direction. The transverse rods allow the supporting plates to be connected to both sides of the main plate. With the transverse rods penetrating the main plate in a transverse direction, the supporting strength of the maintenance platform is increased, and the undesired break or bend of the supporting plate is reduced.
US09138887B2 Extension bar
An extension bar includes a rod having an outer periphery thereof including a recess and a positioning track extended thereon. The recess defines a first contact section and a second contact section disposed after the first contact section longitudinally. A sleeve is slidably mounted on the rod and includes an orifice extended radially therethrough. A stopper is movably engaged with and disposed at a fixed predetermined position on the positioning track. A detent is engaged between the rod and the sleeve and movably engaged in the recess and the orifice. A biasing member is disposed between the sleeve and the stopper.
US09138882B2 Interchangeable hand tool system
An integrated tool system that includes various interchangeable implements and attachments to provide functionality of pliers, wrenches, hammers, ratchets and screwdrivers. Many of the attachments are secured to rectangular jaws at the upper portion of the device. The lower portion of the device includes an ratcheting gear for accepting sockets, socket adaptors, ratchet extensions and so forth. The upper and lower portions are separable to reveal a receiver for hexes that is stored within the handle, thereby facilitating screwdriving and the like.
US09138880B2 Screwdriver
A screwdriver comprises a handle. A wire stripping component is arranged inside the handle; an opening corresponding to a working portion of the wire stripping component is provided on the handle. Owing to the built-in wire stripping component, the screwdriver has the wire stripping function. Also disclosed is a handle applied to the screwdriver.
US09138865B2 Method to improve efficiency of PCD leaching
A method of treating polycrystalline diamond includes providing a leaching agent within a vessel, placing a polycrystalline diamond body within the vessel such that the polycrystalline diamond body contacts the leaching agent, and applying a vacuum pressure in the vessel at an interval, where the interval includes at least one cycle, each cycle having a duration measured from the time the vacuum pressure is applied to the time the vacuum pressure is removed, and a frequency at which the at least one cycle is conducted.
US09138864B2 Green colored refractory coatings for cutting tools
In one aspect, coated cutting tools are described herein. A coated cutting tool described herein comprises a substrate and a coating adhered to the substrate, the coating comprising at least one composite layer deposited by chemical vapor deposition, the composite layer comprising an aluminum oxynitride phase, a metal oxide phase including zirconium oxide, a zirconium sulfur nitride phase and a metal oxynitride phase in addition to the aluminum oxynitride phase, the metal oxynitride phase comprising zirconium oxynitride.
US09138863B2 Particle-delivery in abrasive-jet systems
Particle-delivery devices, abrasive jet systems, and associated devices, systems, and methods are disclosed herein. In certain aspects, the particle-delivery devices can include an elongated fluidizing chamber and a metering assembly. The metering assembly can include a particle flow path extending from the fluidizing chamber. The metering assembly can also include a carrier-gas passage extending to an injection orifice proximate the fluidizing chamber. The metering assembly can be configured to inject carrier gas into the fluidizing chamber to fluidize particles within the fluidizing chamber. Fluidizing the particles at different carrier-gas pressures and/or flow rates can change the rate of particle delivery. For example, the metering assembly can include a metering opening and a regulator configured to change a steady-state pressure and/or flow rate of carrier gas entering the fluidizing chamber. Systems disclosed herein can include a controller configured to change a flow rate of particles through the metering opening.
US09138862B2 CMP pad dresser having leveled tips and associated methods
CMP pad dressers having leveled tips and associated methods are provided. In one aspect, for example, a method can include pressing a CMP pad dresser against a CMP pad, where the dresser includes a monolayer of a plurality of superabrasive particles protruding from a matrix layer. The difference in protrusion distance between the highest protruding tip and the second highest protruding tip of the monolayer of superabrasive particles is less than or equal to about 10 microns and the difference in protrusion distance between the highest 10 protruding tips of the monolayer of superabrasive particles are within about 20 microns or less. The method can further include rotating the dresser against the CMP pad such that asperities are cut into the CMP pad having a maximum cutting depth of about 60 microns.
US09138859B2 Method for manufacturing an optical component for eliminating surface defects
Method for manufacturing an optical component, including a substrate made of a fusible material, includes the following steps a) and b) of steps a), b) and c), or steps a), b), c) and d): a) roughing; b) fine grinding; c) polishing; and d) finishing. The method includes steps, subsequent to any one of steps b), c) and/or d): e) inspecting the optical surface of the optical component; f) detecting and locating at least one surface defect to be eliminated; g) for each surface defect, applying a laser beam to an area emcompassing the defect, so as to produce a local remelting of the fusible material, and to form, at the location of the defect, an area of material remelted; h) polishing the optical surface including at least one area of remelted material, to produce a polished optical surface free of surface defects, and continuing with steps c) and d).
US09138857B2 Chemical mechanical polishing machine and chemical mechanical polishing apparatus comprising the same
A chemical-mechanical polishing machine includes a work table, polishing platen mounted onto the work table, pad conditioner and slurry-delivery device mounted on the work table and disposed near the polishing platen, and polishing-head support mounted on the work table and including a base plate and supporting side plates. The base plate is formed with a groove in a “thickness” direction. A loading and unloading table is mounted on the work table, disposed below the base plate, and opposed to the polishing platen. A polishing head is rotatably disposed on the polishing-head support, movable in the longitudinal direction, and passes through the groove to extend downwardly. A robotic manipulator is disposed near the work table for placing a wafer on the loading and unloading table and taking the wafer away from it. A chemical-mechanical polishing apparatus includes an array of a plurality of the machine.
US09138856B2 Method and apparatus for surface strengthening and/or smoothing of an integrally bladed rotor area of a jet engine
The present invention describes a method and an apparatus for surface strengthening and/or smoothing of an integrally bladed rotor area of a jet engine. The rotor area can be connected to a device and held by the latter inside the container in a position equivalent to an at least approximately horizontal orientation of a rotary axis of the rotor area. A space delimited by the container and the rotor area between a surface of the rotor area and that surface of the container facing the rotor area is filled at least partially with strengthening and/or smoothing elements. A relative movement is generated between the surface of the rotor area and the strengthening and/or smoothing elements. The surface region of the rotor area to be strengthened and/or smoothed is at a distance from the surface of the container facing the rotor area.
US09138855B2 Multifunctional substrate polishing and burnishing device and polishing and burnishing method thereof
A substrate grinding and polishing device comprising separate grinding and polishing units for operating on a work-piece. The work piece is clamped to a rotating work table under the units and a track underneath the rotating work table allows for quick transfer from the grinding unit to the polishing unit or vice versa. This setup allows for easy transfer as well as quick adjustment between different modes of grinding and polishing.
US09138852B2 Brush-type deburring machine
The invention concerns a brush-type deburring machine for deburring opposed ends of at least one elongate profile formed in a longitudinal direction during conveying in a conveying direction with two rows of conveying discs arranged in the conveying direction, wherein the conveying discs are arranged opposite one another in pairs and in each case have at least one aperture corresponding to an opposite aperture for receiving the at least one elongate profile, a gripping device by which the at least one elongate profile is capable of being inserted into the mutually corresponding apertures, with a pressing device arranged between the corresponding apertures and by which a force is capable of being exerted upon the at least one elongate profile in a direction radially towards the inside with respect to the conveying discs into the corresponding apertures.
US09138849B2 Sharpening apparatus
A portable sharpening apparatus is described. The sharpening apparatus includes a body portion and a cavity formed in the body portion for receiving an object to be sharpened. A rotatable abrasive drum capable of sharpening and having an axis of rotation is provided and the abrasive drum is located in the body portion. The apparatus further comprises a motor arranged to drive the abrasive drum and a mouth communicating with the abrasive drum and arranged in the body portion so as to direct an object to be sharpened towards the abrasive drum, wherein the mouth has a supporting means for locating an object to be sharpened at the abrasive drum, the supporting means being such that, when in use, an object to be sharpened is orientated along an axis substantially perpendicular to the axis of rotation of the abrasive drum.
US09138848B2 Method and apparatus for suppressing vibration
A vibration suppressing method and a vibration suppressing device are disclosed. After detection of chatter vibration using at least one vibration detecting device, a stable rotation speed for suppressing the chatter vibration is calculated using a stable rotation speed calculating device. A determination device then compares a detection value detected by the vibration detecting device, a predetermined setting value, and/or a current value that is calculated based on at least one of the detection value and the setting value, to a predetermined determination reference value that is previously set. Thereafter, the determination device determines whether or not the stable rotation speed is adopted in accordance with the comparison result, and changes rotation speed of the rotary shaft to the stable rotation speed if the stable rotation speed is adopted.
US09138847B2 Spraying device for use in machining center
The present invention provides a spraying device for use in machining center, which is installed at the front flange of a spindle in a machining center and includes: a fastening member having the inner side and the outer side respectively formed with an inner connecting edge and an outer connecting edge; and a spray member respectively and axially extended with an inner flange and an outer flange, thereby defining an accommodation space, so a coolant can pass at least one water inlet for entering the accommodation space; wherein the peripheral surface of the spray member is formed with at least one row of cooling array composed of plural primary ejecting holes having the inclined angles determined according to the cutting range of the tool, so the coolant ejected by the primary ejecting holes are able to be gathered within the cutting range of the tool.
US09138845B2 Dust extractor
A suction cup dust extractor for a drill including a housing; a drill collar having a drill passage formed through it; a recess formed by the walls of the housing having an opening and which, in use, locates against a work piece to create a chamber; an aperture located on the housing through which air can pass; at least one first air passage formed within the housing which connects to the aperture; and at least one second air passage formed within the housing which enables air to pass from the recess to the aperture; the collar being releasably attachable to the housing, the at least one first air passage making fluid connection with the drill passage when it is attached to the housing to enable air to pass from the drill passage to the aperture.
US09138844B2 Portable alarm system for CNC milling machine
An alarm system including a battery powered transmitter received in a watertight housing. The housing includes an outwardly extending shank. The shank is adapted for receipt in a tool holder stored in tool change magazine. The magazine is mounted inside a high speed CNC milling machine. When the milling machine completes a work cycle on a work piece, it is programmed to activate an automatic tool changer that retrieves the tool holder with transmitter from the magazine and attaches them to a tool spindle. The movement of the machine is then used to activate a radio signal button on the transmitter and send a radio frequency signal to a battery powered receiver disposed outside the milling machine. The receiver than activates an alarm. The operator is then alerted that the milling machine has stopped operating and needs to be attended.
US09138842B2 Pneumatic impact tool having two oil inlets
A pneumatic impact tool includes a housing, a power output unit, a transmission unit, and an oil seal assembly. The housing has first and second accommodating chambers, and first and second oil inlets in fluid communication with the first and second accommodating chambers, respectively, and permitting lubricating oil to be fed into the first and second accommodating chambers therethrough. The power output unit is centered at a Z-axis, and is disposed in the first accommodating chamber for power outputting. The transmission unit is centered at an X-axis, and is disposed in the second accommodating chamber for transmitting a power to the power output unit. The oil seal assembly prevents flow of the lubricating oil out of the first and second accommodating chambers.
US09138839B2 Piston having position rings and support rings
A support ring (12) and a piston ring (11) that are arranged in a peripheral groove (20) provided on a piston body (15), the axial width of the peripheral groove (20) being greater than the total axial width of the support ring (12) and of the piston ring (11), and the support ring (12) is arranged radially inwardly at a distance from the piston body (15), and the support ring (12) is relief-milled from the piston body (15) as an unbroken ring.
US09138838B2 Method of repairing a turbine rotor using cold spraying
A method of repairing a damaged rotor comprising: (a) preparing a locally damaged portion of the rotor; (b) cold spraying alloy powder particles onto the locally damaged portion; (c) controlling the cold spraying in step (b) to restore the locally damaged portion to form a repaired portion having substantially the same properties and shape as originally manufactured; and (d) heat treating at least the repaired portion.
US09138837B2 Method of manufacturing bearing ring of rolling bearing
A method of manufacturing a bearing ring of a rolling bearing includes a process of forming a bearing ring material in which a raceway groove is formed, a process of performing form rolling so as to form surface textures in axially opposite end portions of the raceway groove, a heat treatment process, a grinding process, and a super-finishing process.
US09138836B2 Method of protection in tower
A method for using a guard for structural members is disclosed. This can reduce worker injury with a thin sheet metal or plastic, broadly U-shaped guard plate attached to a structural support through attachment to a pair of clamps, each with a primary and a secondary threaded clamp mechanism. The attachment between the guard plate and pair of clamps may be via a slotted intermediate structure. The primary mechanism has a swivel pad end while the secondary clamps have a pointed, cone-shaped end. The guard can be used in wind turbine towers to protect workers on a fixed ladder from hitting interior flanges as they climb up and as they climb down.
US09138831B2 Addition of rare earth elements to improve the performance of self shielded electrodes
A self-shielding welding electrode and a method of making the same are provided. The self-shielding welding electrode contains rare earth aluminide in either the flux or the electrode portion of the electrode. The self-shielding welding electrode contains at least about 0.5% by weight of the flux of rare earth aluminide.
US09138825B2 Wireless communication system for welding-type devices
A welding-type device has wireless communications to transmit wireless signals comprising at least identification information or location information. The information may be transmitted either automatically or in response to request signals. Such a welding-type device may be configured to communicate with other welding-type devices, a monitoring device, or both. A wireless communication system has at least one welding-type device, at least one wireless communication assembly, and at least one monitoring device and is capable of assisting a user in locating particular welding-type devices, preventing theft of welding-type devices, and scheduling preventive maintenance.
US09138822B2 System and method for mounting a tractor unit on a guide track
A tractor unit mounting mechanism includes a clamping assembly that is configured to engage and disengage the tractor unit to a track guide. The tractor unit includes at least two pivot blocks with each pivot block including at least one rolling device and a locking mechanism. The at least one rolling device is designed to roll on a rail of the guide track. The clamping assembly is configured to operatively connect the at least one rolling device with the guide track when the tractor unit is engaged. The pivot block is configured to pivot such that the at least one rolling device can conform to a profile, e.g., a concave profile, convex profile, a straight profile, or any combination thereof, of the guide track as the tractor unit is engaging the guide track. The locking mechanism, e.g., a bushing, is configured to prevent the pivot block from pivoting once the tractor unit has engaged to the guide track.
US09138818B2 Systems and devices for performing powered threading operations
A device and associated system for threading, cutting, and reaming pipe ends are described. The device and system utilizes a brushless DC electric motor. The devices also include on-board electronics and operator interface(s) to provide sophisticated control and information as to the various operations. Also described are methods of operating the devices and several different modes for performing various operations.
US09138817B1 Method and apparatus for removing underwater platforms
A method is provided for removing an abandoned marine platform from a seabed. The platform extends below the seabed mud line. In order to remove the platform, a frame is provided having a perimeter that surrounds an open center. The frame is lowered over the platform wherein the platform occupies the open center portion. A movable cutter cable is fitted to the frame. At least a part of the cutter cable is positioned below the mud line. The cutter is moved relative to the frame to cut the platform below the mud line. Such movement can be a back and forth movement wherein the cutter cable moves in a first direction, stops and then moves in a second direction that is generally opposite the first direction. A lifting device can employ two vessels and two frames, each frame bridging from one vessel to the other. Winches on the vessel can be used to provide movement to the cutter cable. These same winches can take up cable slack as cutting moves from one platform member (e.g. leg, jacket leg, piling, etc) to another.
US09138814B2 Method for machining and related machining tool, machining apparatus, and computer code
A method for machining may include providing a workpiece with a major (e.g., top) surface and an edge at a perimeter thereof. The method may also include providing a machining tool including an outer rotary cutter and an inner rotary cutter. The workpiece may be machined in a single pass of the machining tool around the perimeter thereof. Machining the workpiece may include simultaneously machining the edge with the inner rotary cutter and machining at least a portion of the major surface with the outer rotary cutter. Accordingly, the edge and at least a portion of the major surface of the workpiece may be simultaneously machined in a single pass. The inner rotary cutter may also simultaneously machine an undercut at the edge of the workpiece. A related machining apparatus including the machining tool is provided. Further, a computer readable medium may include program code for performing the above-described operations.
US09138813B2 Hole-making tool
A hole-making tool includes a body having a seat, which is delimited by a tangential support surface, an axial support surface, and a radial support surface. A cutting insert is fixed in the seat. A pair of female- and male-like securing means is arranged in the interface between the tangential support surface of the seat and the underside of the cutting insert. The female-like securing means includes a guide surface. The male-like securing means is spaced from the guide surface to form a gap between the securing means when the cutting insert is pressed against the axial and radial support surfaces. If the feeding direction of the tool is reversed, the cutting insert may become detached from the seat and the securing means is activated to direct the cutting insert inward toward the radial support surface to prevent the peripheral portion of the cutting insert from scratching the generated hole.
US09138810B2 Work supply apparatus and machine tool provided with the work supply apparatus
A work supply apparatus that can cope with a variation (decrease or increase) in length of the work and can eliminate adverse effects caused by vibration or the like and a machine tool provided with this work supply apparatus are aimed at to be provided.Provided is a work supply apparatus that is provided with a work accommodation part (110), a pressing member (130) which presses the works (W) accommodated in the work accommodation part out from the work accommodation part (110), and the work replenishing part (122) which replenishes works to the work accommodation part, and replenishes works to be introduced to the work supply part, and supplies the work in the work accommodation part to a predetermined operation position by means of the pressing member (130), wherein the work replenishing part has a work positioning member (125) which positions the work at a position where the work can be replenished to the work accommodation part, the work positioning member (125) is provided in a manner that the position thereof can be freely adjusted according to the work, and the pressing member (130) has a configuration that allows the amount of movement to be adjusted based on the distance between the reference position (122a) and the work positioning member (125).
US09138808B2 Tool feed system for use with a rotating machining device
A rotating machining device for machining a work piece includes a support housing adapted to be mounted on the work piece and a headstock rotatably mounted on the support housing. At least one tool module is mounted to the headstock and includes a tool feed system having a tool holder and a feed mechanism operatively connected to the tool holder. A tripper pin assembly is mounted on the support housing and arranged to collide with the feed mechanism for advancement of the tool holder relative to the work piece. The feed mechanism collides with the tripper pin assembly at a collision point radially positioned inside of an outer diameter of the headstock.
US09138807B1 Three-dimensional molding equipment
Three-dimensional molding equipment includes powder supply equipment configured to supply powder material and form a powder layer, and a light beam scanning unit configured to radiate a light beam to the powder layer and move a radiated location thereof, where a three-dimensional shaped molding object is manufactured by alternately repeating processes of forming the powder layer and sintering the powder layer with light beam radiation. A region used for manufacturing the three-dimensional shaped molding object is divided into a plurality of divided regions such that respective divided regions have an equal-length molding path which is to be a scanning route of the beam such as having unequal-length molding parts by a scanning route of the beam, and radiation is executed by a plurality of the light beam scanning units to the respective plurality of divided regions to improve molding efficiency.
US09138805B2 Method for applying wear resistant coating to mechanical face seal
Mechanical face seal rings having a metallurgically bonded wear-resistant coating on the wear surfaces thereof and methods for forming such coated components is taught herein. The face seal rings, which can be formed of a relatively inexpensive base metal or alloy, have a hard metal alloy slurry disposed on the wear surfaces and then fused to form a metallurgical bond with the iron-based alloy. The wear-resistant coating comprises a fused, metal alloy comprising at least 60% iron, cobalt, nickel, or alloys thereof.
US09138802B2 Forging system for forging a valve
A forging press device for valve including an upsetter in which a plurality of primary forming stages are provided, a forging press main body adjacent to the upsetter, that secondarily forms a primary formed workpiece, and a workpiece conveyance/carry-in device which grips and conveys the workpiece, to carry it into the forging press main body, the device in which the workpiece conveyance/carry-in device is composed of a high speed multi jointed robot capable of circling around a vertical shaft, which has an arm (a chuck) gripping the workpiece. In accordance with the invention, it is possible to provide a forging press device for valve in which the number of deliveries of workpiece from the upsetter to the forging press main body is decreased, which speeds up a valve forging line, and improves the production efficiency.
US09138801B2 Method of making a spring core for a bedding or seating product
Disclosed herein is a method of making a spring core (12) for a bedding or seating product (10). The spring core (12) has coil springs (26) having unknotted end turns (72, 74) made from high tensile strength wire. In each embodiment, the end turns (72, 74) of the coil springs (26) are generally U-shaped having one arcuate leg (76) longer than the other (78), the legs (76, 78) being joined by a connector (80) having an arcuate bump (81) therein. The springs (26) are oriented in the spring core (12) such that a long leg (76) of one end turn (72) abuts a short leg (78) of the adjacent end turn (72) prior to being wrapped in helical lacing wire (32). The high tensile wire enables the coil springs (26) to be manufactured using less wire than heretofore possible.
US09138800B2 Safety wire plier
A safety wire plier includes a pair of plier arms with each of the arms including a jaw end and a handle. The plier arms of the safety wire plier are pivotally connected to each other for movement in either an open or closed position. The safety wire plier also includes a sealed lock for releasably locking the safety wire plier in the closed position.
US09138785B2 Method and apparatus for enhanced cleaning and inspection
A cleaning and inspection system includes a cleaning chamber and retaining structure disposed within the cleaning chamber and configured to secure an article to be cleaned within the cleaning chamber. The cleaning and inspection system also includes a gas distributor disposed within the cleaning chamber and configured to distribute a turbulent flow of gas into the cleaning chamber that facilitates removal of foreign particles from a surface of the article. Further, the system includes a particle collection surface positioned to collect foreign particles removed from the surface of the article.
US09138784B1 Deionized water conditioning system and methods
An apparatus for conditioning deionized water and delivering it to a semiconductor wafer in a post electrofill module includes a degassing station configured to remove dissolved gas from the deionized water flow, a heating station configured to heat the deionized water flow, and a nozzle configured to deliver the deionized water flow to the wafer. The heating and degassing are performed before the delivery of the deionized water flow to the wafer. In some implementations the degassing station includes a contact degasser or an inert gas bubbler, and the heating station is configured to heating the deionized water flow to a temperature of between about 35-40° C. In some embodiments the deionized water flow is passed through the degassing station before being passed through the heating station.
US09138782B2 Engine wash apparatus and method-collector
A collector for collecting wash liquid from an engine washing operation including an inlet duct to receive wash liquid from the wash operation; a plurality of droplet separators to retain the wash liquid within the collector while allowing air to flow out of the collector; a base to receive the wash liquid; an outlet connected to the base to discharge wash liquid from the collector; and a plurality of wheels connected to the base for moving the collector.
US09138779B2 Multilayer coat and method for producing the same
Disclosed is a method for producing a multilayer coat characterized by including the steps of coating a substrate with an undercoating material to form an undercoat layer, coating the undercoat layer with an active energy ray-curing type ink in an ink-jet system, curing the active energy ray-curing type ink through active energy ray irradiation, and coating the cured active energy ray-curing type ink with a top coating material to form a top coat layer, wherein the surface free energy of the undercoat layer is γs=20-50 mN/m, the active energy ray-curing type ink has a surface tension at 40° C. of 20-35 mN/m, and the top coating material has a surface tension at 25° C. of 20-50 mN/m, as well as a multilayer coat obtained by the production method.
US09138776B2 Process for applying coatings with metallic chromium
The invention relates to a procedure for applying a coating with metallic or ceramic finish on the entirety or part of the surface of a thermoplastic, metallic or metallic alloy article, which comprises: preparing the thermoplastic, metallic, or metallic alloy article; applying on the article a base polymeric layer based on aqueous dispersions of resins without volatile organic components or on dispersions in organic solvents of resins without urethane; curing the base polymeric layer; and depositing a single layer of a metallic or ceramic material on the article coated with the cured base polymeric layer. The curing of the base polymeric layer is carried out at a temperature of between 30 and 80° C. in the case of thermal polymeric layers, or by means of ultraviolet radiation in the case of photosensitive polymeric layers. Optionally, a second transparent polymeric layer can be applied for protective purposes. This coating confers a metallic or ceramic appearance on the articles, as desired, as well as resistance to chemical corrosion and to external effects due to changes in weather and the mechanical friction produced in daily use.
US09138770B2 Dyeing device for applying dye to columnar objects
A device for dyeing columnar objects rotates the columnar object as they brush past an endless, absorbent, dye-carrying belt. The colored dye from the belt rubs off onto the columnar object, providing an even and consistent coating of dye.
US09138762B2 Texture spray gun
A texture spray gun having an air passageway (29) and a texture material passageway (28) in a handle (14) of the gun do) and a selectively removable screw to convert the gun from a non-air bleed configuration to an air bleed configuration and an improved air valve (22) providing a minimum air flow regardless of the setting of the air valve (22), preventing texture material from clogging an air path at the outlet of the gun.
US09138761B2 Intermixing assembly evaporative air conditioner system
An intermixing assembly for an evaporative air conditioner includes an elongated housing and a nozzle positioned in the housing. The housing has an inlet for receiving ambient air from a source thereof and an outlet. The nozzle is positioned adjacent the housing outlet and has a first inlet for connecting to a source of pressurized water; a second inlet for connecting to a source of pressurized air; and an outlet for dispensing the pressurized water and pressurized air and mixing them with the ambient air to form a mist near the housing outlet.
US09138759B2 Electrostatic projector comprising a rotation speed detection device
The invention relates to an electrostatic projector (P1) comprising: an insulation body (1); a rotatably movable projection member (2); rotational driving means (7); high-voltage power supply means (26); conducting elements (2.1, 6, 22, 23); a detection device (40) for evaluating the rotation speed of the projection member (2), the detection device (40) including at least one target (41, 42) on a rotary component and a sensor (43) adapted for detecting the or each target. The projector (P1) further includes at least one insulating wall (50) that defines a housing (51) surrounding the sensor (43) for insulating the entire sensor (43) from the conducting elements (2.1, 6, 22, 23). The sensor (43) is separated from the space (V) scanned by the rotating target (41, 42) by an essentially axial detection distance (H).
US09138756B2 Showerhead or hand shower
A showerhead or hand shower with spray outlet openings and “x” (x>1) valves that control the inflow of a fluid to the spray outlet openings, wherein each valve can be activated independently of the other valves and comprises a movable valve body by means of which at least a first and a second valve position are realized, and for each of the “x” valves, a pushbutton is arranged to control it, wherein a displacement of the associated valve body takes place upon actuation of one or more pushbuttons, a control element is provided via which, when the same pushbutton or the same pushbuttons are actuated, the position of the associated valve body in the second valve position is secured and/or all other valve bodies whose associated pushbutton is not actuated are reset to the first valve position.
US09138754B2 Adjustable firefighting nozzle
A new firefighting nozzle has a base nozzle with one size or type of orifice and one or more auxiliary nozzles with a different size or type of orifice that a firefighter can easily see. A firefighter can swing the auxiliary nozzle into series with the base nozzle to change the flow. A springy element biases a locking element on the auxiliary nozzle from a retracted position toward an extended position in which it locks the auxiliary nozzle in place.
US09138753B1 Spray nozzle and the application
A spray nozzle for providing a high efficient atomization and a uniform fluid flow pattern, includes an internal fluid channel, sealing and a spray nozzle, on which two of spray orifices are designed close to each other. The fluid flow is guided in the internal fluid channel smoothly and separated to two fluid flows inside of spray nozzle. These two fluid flows are pressed out from the spray orifices and interfered with each other right after flow out from the spray orifices. The fluid is being atomized efficiently because the spray nozzle is designed to fully utilize both flow velocity energy and flow pressure potential energy, which is well known as “Potential Core” or “Potential Zone” and will disappear in a very short distance right after fluids flow out from the spray orifices. During the fluid flows collide with each other by using the flow velocity right after flow out from the orifices, the fluid flows explode within the potential core by using the flow pressure potential energy. And then, the fluid flow and the fluid particles are continuously atomized by using the velocity difference between the fluid flow and the air around the fluid flow to have very fine particles.
US09138752B2 Dissolved gas flotation pressure reduction nozzle
A dissolved gas flotation pressure reduction nozzle (60) comprises: an integrally molded plastics component (61) comprising a discharge spout (62), an impingement plate (64) and one or more fins (66) extending from the impingement plate (64) in the radially outwards and downstream directions; and a control plate (75) upstream of the impingement plate (64).
US09138751B2 Method for solid waste separation and processing
A method for solid waste separation and processing (10) comprising the method steps of: (a) Passing a municipal solid waste (12) to a first size based separation step (14) producing at least a fine organic fraction (16) and a coarse fraction (18); (b) Passing the fine organic fraction (16) to a digestion process (20) by way of a glass and grit separation step (24); and (c) Recirculating the coarse fraction (18) of step (a) through the first size based separation step (14) at least once.
US09138748B2 Reaction vessel comprising conductive layer and inner non-metallic layer
A reaction vessel for conducting a chemical or biochemical reaction, such as a polymerase chain reaction wherein at least one wall of said vessel comprises a metallic layer and an inner non-metallic layer. Reaction systems comprising combinations of vessels of the invention and apparatus for heating them, as well as particular reactions vessels are also described and claimed.
US09138744B2 Fluid interface cartridge for a microfluidic chip
An interface cartridge for a microfluidic chip, with microfluidic process channels and fluidic connection holes at opposed ends of the process channels, provides ancillary fluid structure, including fluid flow channels and input and/or waste wells, which mix and/or convey reaction fluids to the fluidic connection holes and into the process channels of the microfluidic chip.
US09138742B2 Receiver plate with multiple cross-sections
A multi-well assembly including a filter plate and receiver plate. Each plate includes a plurality of wells, which, when the filter plate is placed in nesting relationship with the receiver plate, each filter plate well has a corresponding receiver plate well into which it extends. The receiver plate wells are of a non-uniform cross-section in order to increase the gap between the outer walls of the filter plate wells and the inner walls of a corresponding receiver plate well when the receiver plate and filter plate are in nesting relationship. The increased gap size reduces wicking and cross-contamination. A multi-section well of maximum cross-section in an upper region and a minimized cross-section in a lower region, with a gradual transition between the regions, is thus provided. The multi-well assembly of the present invention also improves the repeatability of positioning the filter plate and receiver plate in proper nesting relationship and provides stability during handling, mixing and shaking operations.
US09138741B2 Filter pipette tip
Filter pipette tip with a small tube with a relatively large aperture at one end for attaching to a pipette, a relatively small aperture at the other end for the passage of liquid and a through-channel between the large aperture and the small aperture and a porous filter arranged in the through-channel, filling up a portion of the through-channel and comprising at least two layers arranged in series in the direction of the through-channel of which a fine-pore layer has a pore size of a maximum of approximately 20 μm and a coarse-pore layer a pore size of approximately 20 to 50 μm, the two layers having different pore sizes.
US09138725B2 Catalyst materials for NO oxidation
A catalyst material for the oxidation of NO comprising a catalyst carrier including a ceria-alumina support having platinum and optionally palladium dispersed on the support is described. When palladium is present, the ratio of platinum to palladium by weight is at least 1:1. The amount of ceria in the support is in the range of 1% to 12% by weight. The catalyst material is useful for methods and systems of abating pollutants from automotive exhaust gas from lean burn engines.
US09138715B2 Processing biomass and petroleum containing materials
Biomass (e.g., plant biomass, animal biomass, and municipal waste biomass) is processed to produce useful products, such as fuels. For example, systems can use feedstock materials, such as cellulosic and/or lignocellulosic materials and/or starchy materials, to produce ethanol and/or butanol, e.g., by fermentation.
US09138713B2 Plants and processes for forming polymers
The present invention relates to a process of forming a polymer, the process comprising polymerizing olefin monomers to form a reaction mixture, treating the reaction mixture to form a first polymer-rich phase, treating the first polymer-rich phase to form a second polymer-rich phase, and devolatilizing the second polymer-rich phase, the process further comprising at least one step of adjusting the temperature of a first and/or the second polymer-rich phase before the devolatilization. The present invention also relates to a plant that is useful for the process provided above.
US09138710B2 Device for unloading catalyst from a reactor vessel
A device and method for automatic unloading of particles from the vertical tubes of a chemical reactor automatically feeds a fish tape into the bottom of the vertical tube to contact and dislodge the particles and automatically retracts the fish tape to allow the particles to fall out of the tube.
US09138708B2 System and method for removing residual gas from a gasification system
A method includes monitoring a pressure of a gasification system after gasifier shutdown via a pressure sensor, wherein the gasification system includes a gas treatment system and a gasifier configured to output syngas to the gas treatment system during gasification. In addition, the method includes depressurizing the gasification system after gasifier shutdown by opening a flare valve to release gas from the gasifier and the gas treatment system to an atmosphere. The method also includes pressurizing the gasification system after gasifier shutdown, when the monitored pressure reaches a lower pressure threshold, by establishing multiple purge flows of inert gas into the gasification system to remove residual gas from the gasification system. The multiple purge flows are established at different times and at different locations within the gasification system relative to each other.
US09138707B2 Portable, nitric oxide generator
An apparatus for portable delivery of nitric oxide without the need for pressurized tanks, power supplies, or other devices provides a single therapy session by triggering a heater to heat a reaction chamber. A piercing assembly may trigger to open sealed containers, such as bags, of liquid water or salt water in order to activate the heaters. Upon addition of liquid such as water or salt water to a chemically reactive heating element, heat is generated to activate the chemicals generating nitric oxide within a sealed reactor. Upon triggering, liquid containers are unsealed, the liquid drains down to initiate reaction of the heating chemicals, and the heat begins to penetrate the reactor. The reactor, in turn, heats its contents, which react to form nitric oxide expelled by the reactor to a line feeding a cannula for therapy.
US09138704B2 Suspension of nanoparticles
A method for preparing suspension of inorganic nanoparticles is described herein. The method includes mixing a dispersing medium (102) with a dispersant (104) and a metal oxide powder (106) to form a primary mixture (110), the dispersant (104) being selected based on interaction energy of the dispersant (104) with respect to the dispersing medium (102) and the metal oxide powder (106). The method further includes grinding the primary mixture (110) to obtain a suspension (116), wherein at least the dispersant (104) is added to the primary mixture (110) during the grinding after predetermined time intervals.
US09138701B2 System for providing custom colored sealing compound
A system and method for custom coloring sealant is generally provided with one or more dispensing cartridges, containing a quantity of low viscosity sealant base solution, which in some embodiments is as fluid, or more-so, as common latex paint. One or more such dispensing cartridges are secured within a cartridge case. A coloring agent is added to the dispensing cartridge. The system may then be agitated by hand or in a mechanical agitator, such as a commercial paint shaker, until a desired color is attained. The sealant thickener may then be added and mixed by similar agitation of the system to obtain a non-sag, high viscosity sealant. Embodiments of the cartridge case are provided for use with various mechanical agitators and dispensing cartridges.
US09138686B2 Carbon monoxide-selective oxidation catalysts
Particles of mixed oxides of cerium, zirconium, and copper (CeZrCuOX) may be prepared as catalysts and used to preferentially catalyze the oxidation of CO in exhaust streams containing CO and NH3. In one practice, this CeZrCuOX catalyst may be used in combination with a close-coupled PGM catalyst which promotes the formation of NH3 in the exhaust during fuel-rich operation, and at least one under-floor NH3-SCR catalyst, which catalyzes the reduction of NOX in the exhaust stream during fuel-lean operation using NH3 as a reductant. During fuel-rich engine operation, the exhaust stream may be doped with oxygen downstream of the PGM catalyst and passed in contact with particles of the CeZrCuOX catalyst so that residual CO in the exhaust may be oxidized to CO2, without oxidation or other conversion of the NH3.
US09138681B2 Reducing global warming
A system and method for reducing global warming. The system can include a container having a body portion for retaining a quantity of alkaline metal hydroxide and collecting a precipitate. At least one inlet on the container can be utilized for introducing a volume of air containing CO2 into the alkaline metal hydroxide, so that the CO2 in the volume of air can react with the alkaline metal hydroxide to reduce the amount of CO2 in the volume of air and to form a precipitate in the body portion of the container. At least one outlet on the container can be included for releasing the volume of air having reduced CO2 content into the atmosphere. A pump can be included for injecting the volume of air containing CO2 into the alkaline metal hydroxide under pressure.
US09138680B2 Method for removing nitrogen oxides
This method for removing nitrogen oxides brings exhaust gas containing oxygen and at least one nitrogen oxide selected from the group consisting of nitrogen monoxide and nitrogen dioxide into contact with ammonia without the presence of a catalyst, for at least 0.5 seconds under a temperature of no less than 900 DEG C., and breaks down the nitrogen oxide. According to this method, it is possible to remove nitrogen oxides in a highly efficient manner and significantly reduce the amount of unreacted ammonia.
US09138678B2 Membrane-augmented distillation with compression and condensation to separate solvents from water
Disclosed herein are processes for removing water from organic solvents, such as ethanol. The processes include distillation in two columns operated at sequentially higher pressure, followed by treatment of the overhead vapor by one or two membrane separation steps.
US09138675B2 Process for degassing condensed sulfur from a claus sulfur recovery system
A process of producing degassed liquid sulfur using process gas containing H2S to agitate the liquid sulfur being degassed while in contact with a degassing catalyst. Process gas is less costly and less complicated and quickly accomplishes substantial degassing rendering the liquid sulfur much safer in storage and transportation.
US09138673B2 Coalescer filter
A coalescing filter assembly including a coalescing filter element is provided. The coalescing filter assembly includes a base housing and a cover housing that together form a coalescing chamber. Disposed within the coalescing chamber is the coalescing filter element. The coalescing filter element includes a frame with a partition that separates an unfiltered side from a filtered side of the coalescing filter assembly. A port connects the unfiltered side to the filtered side through the partition. A coalescing tube including coalescing filter media is connected to the port. Unfiltered fluid that enters the coalescing filter assembly is passed through the coalescing filter media such that the contaminants are removed to create a filtered fluid. The filtered fluid exits the coalescing filter assembly at an outlet of the coalescing filter assembly.
US09138672B2 Modified fluidizing plate for use in gasification plants with dry fuel feed
A fluidizing plate is provided. The fluidizing plate generates a fluidization layer accommodating a dustlike bulk material, having a high operating temperature range and high permissible differential pressure relative to the thickness of the fluidizing plate, a support plate which carries the filter material and has through holes. Particular designs of the filter material feature metallic filtration fabric with or without support fabric, sintered metal, and sintered plastic, in each case with a filter fineness of 5 μm to 1000 μm. Particular designs of the fluidizing plate feature the disposition of a central through hole for the shaft of a stirrer mechanism, and an opening for the emptying of the fluidization vessel.
US09138671B2 Inertial gas-liquid separator and porous collection substrate for use in inertial gas-liquid separator
A gas-liquid separator has a housing having an inlet for receiving a gas-liquid stream and an outlet for discharging a gas stream. A nozzle structure in the housing has a plurality of nozzles that receive the gas-liquid stream and accelerate the gas-liquid stream therethrough to create a plurality of gas-liquid jets. An inertial collector in the housing causes a sharp directional change of the gas-liquid jets, causing separation of liquid particles from the gas-liquid stream to produce the gas stream. The inertial collector has a porous collection substrate. According to the present disclosure, at least one of the following three conditions is met: (a) the porous collection substrate comprises fibers of small diameter and has low packing density; (b) the porous collection substrate comprises oleophobic fibers; and (c) the nozzle structure and the inertial collector are configured to allow for full expansion of the plurality of gas-liquid jets.
US09138669B2 Multilayer nanofiber filter
A method of making a multilayer filter and the multilayer filter made by the method. The method includes generally two steps. The first step is to coat a layer of nanofibers on a single side or both sides of a substrate medium to obtain a composite filter medium, and the second step is to fold the composite filter medium in a serpentine fashion to form a multilayer filter. The second step may alternatively be accomplished by stacking up a number of sheets of the composite filter medium to form a multilayer filter having a structure of two layers of nanofibers being sandwiched between two layers of said substrate medium. The resulting multilayer filter produced by either method contains at least one structural unit which has two layers of nanofibers being sandwiched between two layers of the substrate medium.
US09138665B2 Filter media retainer assembly
A filter system for filtering particles from a liquid includes an underdrain assembly having an underdrain defining at least one underdrain chamber and a media retainer assembly. The media retainer assembly includes an upper filter media retainer plate defining a plurality of hopper-shaped cavities and a lower filter media retainer plate defining a plurality of hopper-shaped cavities corresponding to the plurality of hopper-shaped cavities on the upper plate. The plates are in a nested arrangement such that the hopper-shaped cavities on the upper plate are in alignment with the corresponding plurality of hopper-shaped cavities on the lower plate to define a plurality of passages therebetween and allow for the passage of the liquid while preventing the passage of a filter media. During a backwash operation, the upper and lower plates are relatively moveable such that the backwash fluid releases any particles lodged in the passages between the plates.
US09138661B2 Chromatography column and maintenance method
A chromatography column and method of maintenance is described which does not require the use of a hoist or crane for disassembly. The method provides improved operator safety by reducing the need for the operator to work below a suspended or supported load within the column. Furthermore, the removal or replacement of column components is facilitated by providing access to the interior of the column and by the provision of a handling device.
US09138659B2 Compositions, methods, and systems relating to controlled crystallization and/or nucleation of molecular species
The present invention generally relates to compositions, methods, and systems relating to controlled crystallization and/or nucleation of a molecular species. In some embodiments, the crystallization and/or nucleation of the molecular species may be controlled by tuning the surface chemistry and/or the morphology of a crystallization substrate. In some embodiments, the molecular species is a small organic molecule (e.g., pharmaceutically active agent).
US09138653B2 Water ride attraction incorporating rider skill
A waterslide attraction capable of incorporating user skill or agility. The waterslide attraction utilizes a slide for supporting a rider, either with a ride vehicle or without. The ride vehicle may be a mat with handles that allows the rider thereon to manipulate its position or other elements while on the slide. Upon manipulating an element, a signal may be transmitted. Sensors located along the slide are configured to interact with tags having corresponding identification information, such tags either worn by the rider in accessories or embedded or coupled with the ride vehicle. When a tag is within a predetermined distance or vicinity of a sensor, one or more aspects of the waterslide attraction may be modified, such as by turning on jets of fluid or assigning score points associated with the identification information. A screen or mobile application displays various characteristics corresponding to travel performance down the slide.
US09138651B2 Universal game pedal controller and method therefor
A universal game pedal controller and method of emulating the output of multiple game pedal controllers in a universal game pedal controller are disclosed. A universal game pedal controller according to the present invention provides a microcontroller-based interface board for mapping the inputs from multiple pedal sensors to analog outputs of a primary game controller interface having a common adapter cable port, and adapter cables configured to connect the interface board to different primary game controllers. A USB interface may also be provided, permitting connection of the universal game pedal controller to a personal computer. The method provides for calibration of the input signals to the full range of the outputs, whether analog or digital, for increased accuracy and responsiveness.
US09138647B2 Game play skill training
Embodiments of the present invention provide a library of video related to game play involving the use of particular objects. By observing game play of users in a game play environment, determinations may be made as to users who excel at the use of a particular object. Video of game play related to these users and a particular object may be created, cataloged, and stored for later use by users that lack proficiency with that object. By observing video of game players with particular skill as to an object, less skilled players may improve their game play thereby avoiding frustration with a game, which may lead to a loss of interest. Acquisition and proffering of video may be facilitated through the use of an analytics server or functional software module that observes game play and identifies players of particular skill or lack thereof.
US09138636B2 System and method for calculating values in tile games
A system and method for capturing images of a game space, detecting word or letter tiles added to the game space by a player, calculating a value of the added words or letters and adding the value to the score of the player during whose turn the letters or words were added.
US09138625B2 Ball bat
A ball bat includes a bat body and a core unit. The bat body has a barrel section, a knob section, and a handle section. The barrel section has an upper receiving space defined by a space-defining surface. The handle section interconnects the barrel section and the knob section. The bat body includes a plurality of wooden pieces, each having a connecting region that is formed with an upper groove as a portion of the upper receiving space. The space-defining surface is formed with a plurality of adhesive-receiving grooves in spatial communication with the upper receiving space. The core unit has a tube disposed in the upper receiving space and adhered to the space-defining surface.
US09138623B2 Lightweight grip for sports equipment
A lightweight grip assembly is disclosed herein. The lightweight grip assembly comprises a rigid support structure comprising a hollow portion and a grip portion comprising a substantially uniform thickness, wherein the grip portion is disposed on an external surface of the rigid support structure. The lightweight grip assembly may be used in connection with golf club shafts and heads having one or more adjustable features to increase the amount of overall discretionary weight available to a golfer.
US09138619B2 Golf club head
A golf club head includes: a face portion; a crown portion, furrows being formed on an interior surface of at least a part of the crown part in a mesh-like pattern; a side portion; a sole portion, at least a front part of the sole portion being made of metal, and furrows being formed on an interior surface of at least a part of the front part in a mesh-like pattern; and a hosel portion.
US09138612B2 Exercise device
An exercise device for providing exercise for a user may include a substantially vertical chimney frame member, a substantially horizontal chimney frame member connected to the substantially vertical chimney frame member, and a slack adjuster frame member to provide a plurality of exercise modes. The slack adjuster frame member may include a top slack adjuster frame member, and the slack adjuster frame member may include a bottom slack adjuster frame member. The plurality of operating modes may include at least one operating mode from the group of a bench press to perform bench press exercises, a decline press to perform decline press exercises, a preacher curls to perform preacher curls exercises, a military press to perform military press exercises, and an incline press to perform incline press exercises.
US09138608B2 Self and manually adjustable exercise device
A self and manually adjustable exercise device includes a pair of shoulder portions attached to each other. Each shoulder portion forms a respective loop around and engages with a respective shoulder region of a human torso. Each shoulder portion includes a respective belt portion that forms the respective loop, and a respective load coupling structure connected to the respective belt portion to self-adjust a respective position at which the respective load coupling structure connects to the respective belt portion when the respective load coupling structure connects to a respective load.
US09138606B2 Exercise machine ergonomic handle system
An exercise machine ergonomic handle system for providing hand-holds for the performance of exercises with reduced flexion and/or extension of the hand and wrist and reduced ulnar and/or radial deviation so as to reduce injury and allow application of full strength to the exercise machine. The exercise machine ergonomic handle system generally includes a longitudinally extending frame, a carriage that moves upon a first longitudinal portion of the frame, and at least one pair of ergonomic handles positioned on a second longitudinal portion of the frame. The ergonomic handles rotate about an axis to prevent flexion and/or extension, and can be positioned at a width and/or angle that reduces ulnar and/or radial deviation.
US09138605B2 Fire protection method and system for sloped ceilings
A method of using a residential fire protection sprinkler. The method includes providing a fluid supply conduit extending along a ceiling, having a pitch up to 12/12, at a predetermined distance relative to the ceiling and connected to a source of fluid having a predetermined source pressure. The method also includes connecting at least two residential fire protection sprinklers to the fluid supply conduit such that the sprinklers are spaced at least eight feet (8′) apart from one another, wherein the sprinklers have a K-factor of at least 2.8. A residential fire protection sprinkler system is also provided. The system includes a fluid supply conduit extending along a ceiling, having a pitch of up to 12/12, at a predetermined distance relative to the ceiling and connected to a source of fluid having a predetermined source pressure. The system also includes at least two residential fire protection sprinklers connected to the fluid supply conduit such that the sprinklers are at least eight feet apart from one another, wherein the sprinklers have a K-factor of at least 2.8.
US09138604B2 Aerial delivery system
This disclosure is directed to apparatuses, systems, and methods associated with the aerial delivery of materials in a manner that is inexpensive, accurate, efficient, and effective. More specifically this disclosure teaches deploying an aerial delivery container holding some material from an aircraft and releasing the material from the aerial delivery container, all in a controlled manner, while the aerial delivery container is airborne. With reference to the exemplary embodiments, the apparatuses, systems and methods of the present disclosure are taught within the context of releasing a firefighting suppressant over a fire.
US09138600B2 Oral care compositions comprising a polymeric dye
An oral care composition comprising a dye polymer, for modifying the color of teeth.
US09138599B2 Waving compositions
Disclosed are waving compositions for waving of keratinous fibers, such as hair, containing a) a bisulfite compound, b) a sulfate compound or urea, and c) a lactone or about 0.3% or greater, by weight, of ascorbic acid or a derivative thereof, based on the total weight of the composition and methods of waving keratinous fibers by applying such compositions to keratinous fibers. Also disclosed is a multi-unit cosmetic kit for treating a keratinous fiber containing a) a first unit containing a first composition containing a bisulfite compound and a sulfate compound or urea, and b) a second unit containing a second composition containing a lactone or ascorbic acid or a derivative thereof.
US09138597B2 Quantitative endoscopy
A method, computer program product and processor for quantitatively registering a 2D endoscopic ROI in a 3D volumetric imaging dataset. An endoscopic dataset and a volumetric imaging are registered to a common coordinate system. A 2D endoscopic ROI is generated within the endoscopic imaging dataset. A 3D surface ROI is generated within the volumetric imaging dataset corresponding to the 2D endoscopic ROI, based on a projection of the 2D endoscopic ROI to the registered common coordinate system.
US09138592B2 Defibrillation system and method and defibrillator electrode device
A defibrillation system includes an electrode set to contact a biological subject, and a portable electronic device supporting mobile wireless communications and coupled to the electrode set. The portable electronic device includes a processor and a memory unit. The memory unit stores program instructions which, when executed by the processor, enables the processor to obtain an electro-cardiac signal of the biological subject through the electrode set, and output a discharge command according to the electro-cardiac signal for delivering an electrical shock to the biological subject through the electrode set.
US09138590B2 Implantable medical device sensing and selecting wireless ECG and intracardiac electrogram
A CRM system enhances intracardiac electrogram-based arrhythmia detection using a wireless electrocardiogram (ECG), which is a signal sensed with implantable electrodes and approximating a surface ECG. In one embodiment, an intracardiac electrogram allows for detection of an arrhythmia, and the wireless ECG allows for classification of the detected arrhythmia by locating its origin. In another embodiment, the wireless ECG is sensed as a substitute signal for the intracardiac electrogram when the sensing of the intracardiac electrogram becomes unreliable. In another embodiment, a cardiac signal needed for a particular purpose is selected from one or more intracardiac electrograms and one or more wireless ECGs based on a desirable signal quality. In another embodiment, intracardiac electrogram-based arrhythmia detection and wireless ECG-based arrhythmia detection confirm with each other before indicating a detection of arrhythmia of a certain type.
US09138578B2 Endovascular catheters with tuned control members and associated systems and methods
Endovascular catheters and control wires for operating the catheters and associated systems, apparatuses, and methods are disclosed include a catheter apparatus having an elongated shaft, a therapeutic assembly at a distal portion of the shaft, and a handle at a proximal portion of the shaft. An actuator is located at the handle and operably coupled to the therapeutic assembly via a tuned control member extending through the shaft. The tuned control member includes a control wire and a tuning component attached to one another within the shaft. The tuned control member is configured to achieve a desired tuned force-displacement response by modifying the stress-strain response that a non-tuned control wire would ordinarily provide without the intervening tuning component.
US09138577B2 Electrode lead of pacemaker and pacemaker using the same
An electrode lead of a pacemaker includes at least one lead wire. The at least one lead wire includes at least one conductive core, a first insulating layer coated on an outer surface of the at least one conductive core, at least one carbon nanotube yarn spirally wound on an outer surface of the first insulating layer, and a second insulating layer coated on the surface of the at least one carbon nanotube yarn. One end of the at least one conductive core protrudes from the first insulating layer to form a naked portion. The at least one carbon nanotube yarn includes a number of carbon nanotubes joined end to end by van der Waals attractive forces. A pacemaker includes a pulse generator and the electrode lead electrically connected with the pulse generator.
US09138572B2 Medical valve with fluid volume alteration
A medical valve has an open mode that permits fluid flow, and a closed mode that prevents fluid flow. To that end, the medical valve has a housing having an inlet and an outlet, and a resilient member within the housing. The resilient member has a body portion with a free state when undeformed by external mechanical forces and a deformed state when the valve is in the closed mode. The body portion is formed to return toward the free state as the valve transitions from the closed mode to the open mode and defining at least part of a fluid path through the valve.
US09138569B2 Devices and methods for dilating a paranasal sinus opening and for treating sinusitis
Medical devices which are adapted to be inserted into a patient for a limited period of time using minimally invasive insertion procedures for dilating a stenotic opening, such as a stenotic sinus opening, are provided. The devices and methods can be used for treating sinusitis and other nasal and/or sinus disorders.
US09138568B2 CSF shunt flow enhancer, method for generating CSF flow in shunts and assessment of partial and complete occlusion of CSF shunt systems
An apparatus capable of generating flow in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) shunt systems by vibrating the shunt, tubing or shunt valve dome, or applying cyclical pressure to the various parts of the shunt system. A method of generating flow and method of using the apparatus in shunt patency assessment, for example, hydraulic resistance assessment, is also disclosed. The apparatus allows, in conjunction with a thermal dilution method or radionuclide method, a quick CSF shunt patency assessment based upon CSF shunt resistance and not upon CSF flow or intracranial pressure (ICP) separately. This provides a more objective measure of shunt obstruction compared to other methods. Furthermore, the apparatus can be used to enhance flow in shunts, identify partial occlusion before symptoms occur, differentiate between patent, partially-occluded and occluded shunts. The apparatus can be used to generate flow in shunts if there is a need to lower ICP or move drugs administered via an injection chamber or a shunt dome.
US09138565B2 Guide wire
A guide wire for a catheter comprises an elongated hollow shaft has a lumen for delivering or leading away the fluid, and an insertion aid in the form of a flexible wire coil connected coaxially to a distal end of the hollow shaft. The wire coil has a guide wire tip arranged at a distal end, a core wire being arranged in the lumen of the hollow shaft to control the flexibility of the guide wire. The core wire extends out of the lumen and through the wire coil to the guide wire tip. A distal inner area of the wire coil adjacent to the guide wire tip in a proximal direction communicates with the lumen of the hollow shaft by means of a fluid channel formed next to the core wire and has at least one outwardly open passage opening for the fluid to be introduced or removed.
US09138561B2 MRI compatible handle and steerable sheath
An MR compatible deflectable catheter and method of using the same is provided. The MR compatible deflectable catheter includes a steerable sheath having a tubular shaft. The tubular shaft receives first and second longitudinal movement wires at a distal end thereof. A control handle is coupled to a proximal end of the first and second longitudinal movement wires and causes longitudinal movement of the wires.
US09138560B2 Universal catheter securement device
A universal device for securing a catheter on a patient includes a base which optionally has at least one locating element for positioning or securing a catheter or catheter fitting of various shapes or sizes. The base has an opening and one or more restraining elements positioned on a surface of the base and extending over a portion of the opening. A retention plate includes locating elements for positioning or securing a catheter or catheter fitting of various shapes or sizes on the retention plate. Optionally, the retention plate may be movable. A support plate or similar device attached to the base holds the retention plate between the restraining elements and the support plate. A cover is connected to the base and may optionally have at least one capture element for restraining a catheter or catheter fitting of various shapes or sizes on the base or on the retention plate.
US09138558B1 Apparatus and method for improving psychophysiological function for performance under stress
A computer-implemented method for improving psychophysiological function for performance of a subject under stress includes, after a plurality of sensors that monitor stress-indicating physiological parameters have been coupled to the subject, exposing the subject, using computer processes, to at least one training segment during which is determined a degree to which the subject has achieved a targeted level of least one stress-indicating physiological parameter as to be indicative of coherence in the subject. Additionally, the method includes providing, to the subject, feedback indicative of the degree to which the subject has achieved the targeted level of the at least one parameter as to be indicative of coherence in the subject.
US09138550B2 Non-heating tobacco flavor suction device
A non-heating tobacco flavor suction device (1) comprises a suction holder (2) with a suction path defined inside and a filler (8) arranged in the suction path. The filler (8) is formed of tobacco particles. The suction path and the filler (8) arranged therein provide a ventilation resistance of between about 40 and about 80 mmAq in cooperation with each other.
US09138548B2 Fluid warmer and method of operating a fluid warmer
A fluid warmer for tempering a medical fluid guided in a fluid line includes a first and second resistance heating element for alternating voltage and a heat exchanger thermally coupled to the two resistance heating elements and includes a holder for the fluid line. Each resistance heating element has a first and second electrical line connector, respectively, for connection of the resistance heating element to an alternating voltage source. Each electrical line connector has a respective drivable first switch. A respectively inversely phased alternating voltage or in-phase alternating voltage is applied to each resistance heating element during the tempering mode, wherein a compensation alternating voltage which is substantially inversely phased with respect to the heating alternating voltage is additionally applied to the heat exchanger using a compensation circuit. A voltage measurement device determines an electrical voltage between the heat exchanger and a neutral conductor of the alternating voltage source.
US09138545B2 Needle retraction apparatus
A needle retraction apparatus for a medical device such as a liquid infusion or collection device, the apparatus having a body, a needle retraction mechanism seated inside the body, a transverse slide member with an external needle retraction chamber, and a retraction actuator that is rotatable relative to the slide member, the retraction actuator being attachable to or made as part of the liquid infusion or collection device, whereby rotation of the device causes the slide member to move in a linear translational direction to reposition the retraction chamber in alignment with the needle retraction mechanism and allow retraction.
US09138544B2 Method of manufacturing a disposable ejection device
Method of manufacturing a device for ejecting a liquid or pasty product, characterized in that it comprises the following steps: drawing a product (11) to be ejected within a volume (10) of a container holder (2a) of the ejection device by means of a pull rod (18); removing the pull rod (18) from the container holder (2a); assembling a rear body (2b) on the container holder (2a) in order to form the ejection device.
US09138537B2 Determining catheter status
A method for determining the status of a catheter of an implanted infusion system, where the catheter is intended to deliver a fluid composition to CSF of a patient, includes monitoring catheter pressure, developing a pressure modulation profile based on the monitored pressure, and comparing the developed pressure modulation profile to a predetermined pressure profile. The predetermined pressure profile may be a profile of cerebrospinal fluid or a bolus infusion or withdrawal profile for the catheter. A determination of catheter status, such as properly functioning, occluded or leaky, can be made based on the comparison.
US09138535B2 High pressure injection catheter systems
A needleless fluid injection system (100) including an injection console (102), an injection chamber in operative communication with the console, an injectate shaft (104) in operative communication with the console, which has an injection lumen extending from a proximal end to a distal end of the shaft, and at least one injection orifice extending through a wall of the injection lumen proximate the distal end of the shaft. The injection lumen can include a sealing cap (40) at its distal end.
US09138534B2 Positive displacement pump
Systems, methods and apparatuses for delivering therapeutic fluid to the body of a patient are disclosed. The apparatus includes a dispensing unit having a driving mechanism, a pumping mechanism, a reservoir containing therapeutic fluid, and an outlet port. The driving mechanism causes the pumping mechanism to positively displace therapeutic fluid within the reservoir for delivery of therapeutic fluid to the body of the patient via the outlet port.
US09138533B2 Alarm identification system for infusion set when installed in pump assembly
Disclosed herein is an identification system for an infusion set when the infusion set is installed in a pump. The identification system includes a pump, at least one sensor, a catheter, a tube and an alarm. The pump includes at least one sensor disposed thereon, which is in communication with the alarm. The catheter includes a distal end adapted for insertion into a body, and a proximal end opposite the distal end. The tube is operatively configured at a first end to removeably attach to the proximal end of the catheter, and the tube further includes a second end proximate to the sensor(s) on the pump. The sensor(s) are operatively configured to receive a signal generated at the first end or along a length of the tube, and to trigger the alarm upon receiving the signal so as to identify the corresponding pump.
US09138530B2 Catheter assembly and method of treating a vascular disease
A catheter assembly comprises a catheter including a catheter wall and a lumen extending lengthwise of the wall. The wall has inner and outer surfaces. The wall includes plural openings that extend through the wall and communicate with the lumen. An elongated hollow needle includes a proximal end portion and a distal end portion. The needle is movable in the lumen to move the distal end portion between the openings. The distal end portion is directed radially outward so as to extend into an adjacent opening. The distal end portion has a configuration that stores potential energy when in the lumen. The potential energy is converted to kinetic energy to produce movement of the proximal end portion as the distal end portion moves from the inner surface of the catheter wall across an edge of an opening. The movement of the proximal end portion is haptically perceptible.
US09138529B2 Anticoagulant-free dialysis systems and methods
An extracorporeal blood treatment system includes means for withdrawing blood from a patient, and means for transporting the blood through a calcium trap. The calcium trap includes a substrate having an immobilized species, the species being adapted to reduce the calcium concentration in the blood to a concentration that prevents blood clotting in the extracorporeal blood treatment system, thereby producing calcium-depleted blood. The extracorporeal blood treatment system also includes means for treating the calcium-depleted blood downstream of the calcium trap by an extracorporeal blood treatment device, thereby producing treated calcium-depleted blood, means for infusing calcium into the treated calcium-depleted blood downstream of the extracorporeal blood treatment device to add calcium to the treated calcium-depleted blood, and means for returning treated blood back to the patient.
US09138527B2 System and methods for controlling retrograde carotid arterial blood flow
A retrograde flow system is configured for treating an artery. The system includes an arterial access device adapted to be introduced into an artery and receive blood flow from the artery. A shunt fluidly is connected to the arterial access device, wherein the shunt provides a pathway for blood to flow from the arterial access device to a return site. A flow control assembly is coupled to the shunt and is adapted to regulate blood flow through the shunt between at least a first blood flow state and at least a second blood flow state. A shut-off valve assembly automatically blocks fluid flow through the shunt in response to injection of the fluid into the arterial access device.
US09138523B2 Dialysis implant and methods of use
A device and methods for treating renal failure are disclosed. One embodiment of the device is an implantable peritoneal dialysis device. When in use, the device can have a semi-permeable reservoir implanted in the peritoneal cavity. The reservoir can receive blood waste and drain through one or more conduits, via a pump, to the biological bladder. Solids and/or a solution benefiting dialysis can be pumped to the reservoir and/or implanted in the peritoneal cavity.
US09138522B2 Gas exchanger and artificial lung
Blood or other fluids can be caused to interact with a gas by providing a plurality of fluid flow channels that are surrounded by nanotubes, each of the channels having an inflow end and an outflow end, wherein each of the channels is wide enough for the blood to flow through, and wherein the nanotubes are spaced close enough to each other to retain the fluid within the channels when the blood is flowing through the channels. The fluid is then passed through the through the channels while a gas is passed through the spaces between the nanotubes outside the fluid flow channels. This permits the gas to interact with the fluid in the channels.
US09138520B2 Total chlorine water detection system and method for medical fluid treatments
A system and method for determining a concentration of total chlorine in dialysis water are provided. The system comprises a main unit housing a KI/water sample chamber and a sodium sulfate chamber. A first electrode pair bridges the two chambers and generates tri-iodide proportional to the amount of total chlorine in the water sample. A second electrode pair in contact with fluid in the KI/water sample detects an amount of tri-iodide generated by the first electrode pair. The system is suitable for use in connection with, or for incorporation into, a water purification system for generating dialysis fluid, and may include a display that alerts the user to stop or prevent a hemodialysis treatment if the total chlorine level exceeds a predetermined level.
US09138518B2 Percutaneous heart pump
Disclosed herein are heart pumps that can include a catheter body and an impeller coupled with a distal end of the catheter body. The impeller can include a tip that is resealable or that includes a resealable member. The heart pump can also include a diffuser disposed between the distal end of the catheter body and the impeller, wherein the diffuser includes a flow directing surface.
US09138517B2 Self-contained heart pump, and method implemented in such a pump
A heart pump includes: a rotative impeller partly inserted into the systemic ventricle, this rotative impeller being equipped with: a membrane sutured to the outer wall of the heart in such a way as to secure the rotative impeller to the wall of the heart, a housing arranged inside the systemic ventricle in such a way as to draw up then discharge blood, a motor connected to the housing and arranged partly outside the systemic ventricle in such a way as to facilitate maintenance; an integrated management unit in the epigastric region including a power supply and a rotative impeller control unit; and a wired link between the management unit and the rotative impeller.
US09138516B2 Apparatus and method for recognizing couplings between two system components
In an apparatus for recognizing couplings between a first and a second component of a system, one of the two components is provided with an identification unit. A checking unit is operatively connected to the second component. The identification unit contains an item of information relating to the first component. The checking unit is designed for recognizing and processing this item of information. The checking unit moreover is designed such that, as a function of a result of the processing of the item of information, it allows or prevents coupling between the first and the second component. This apparatus enables a combined use of system components only in the case of an admissible coupling thereof.
US09138515B2 System and method for managing reduced pressure at a tissue site
The illustrative embodiments described herein are directed to an apparatus and method for managing reduced pressure at a tissue site. The apparatus includes a reduced pressure source that generates reduced pressure. The reduced pressure is delivered to the tissue site via a delivery tube. The apparatus includes a single pressure sensor. The single pressure sensor detects an actual reduced pressure at the tissue site. The apparatus also includes a controller. The controller determines a responsiveness of the actual reduced pressure measured by the single pressure sensor to an increase in reduced pressure generated by the reduced pressure source. The apparatus includes an indicator. The indicator emits a signal when the controller determines that the actual reduced pressure measured by the single pressure sensor is nonresponsive to the increase in reduced pressure generated by the reduced pressure source.
US09138509B2 Composition for filling bone defects
The invention is directed toward an improved formable bone composition for application to a bone defect site to promote new bone growth at the site which comprises a new bone growth inducing compound of demineralized lyophilized allograft bone particles ranging from about 100 to 850 microns. The bone particles are mixed in an excipient carrier combination containing carboxymethylcellulose, sodium hyaluronate, and a sodium phosphate saline buffer, the carboxymethylcellulose component of the carrier ranging from about 5.0 to about 11.0% of the composition and the sodium hyaluronate component of the carrier ranging from about 0.3 to about 0.7% of the composition, the composition having a pH between 6.5-7.5.
US09138498B2 Modification of powder structure by electric field
Provided are a method and an apparatus for modifying particle size of powders in closed items, comprising the exposure of said items to external electric field of suitable parameters. The degree of agglomeration of the particles can be increased or decreased. Applications to neutralization of harmful powders in mails, to dry agglomeration and to volatilization of powders in food industry and in pharmacology are described.
US09138497B2 Method of presterilizing an aseptic tank and connecting conduits
A method of presterilizing an aseptic tank and connecting conduits involves pumping a certain amount of cold water into the tank and the conduits which is caused to pass through a heat exchanger. In the heat exchanger, the water is heated to 120-150° C., whereafter the water is pumped across the tank and conduits during 10-20 minutes.
US09138496B2 Systems and methods for cleaning and disinfecting allograft material
There is disclosed a system for cleaning and disinfecting allograft material. In an embodiment, the system includes a sterile bag and a motorized paddle blender. The sterile bag having an outer wall configured to withstand blending forces, at least one paddle contact section, and an allograft retaining section separate from the at least one paddle contact section. The motorized paddle blender having at least one paddle configured to apply blending forces on the sterile bag on the at least one paddle contact area, a motorized portion to actuate the at least one paddle, and a door component configured to hold the sterile bag adjacent the at least one paddle. The at least one paddle and the allograft retaining section are configured to prevent the paddle from contacting the allograft material when the blending forces are applied on the sterile bag on the at least one paddle contact area.
US09138489B2 Oxidized cellulose miczrospheres including visualization agents
A microsphere and method for forming the same are disclosed. The microsphere includes modified cellulose and at least one visualization agent.
US09138488B2 Polysorbitol-based osmotically active transporter and gene therapy using same
The present invention relates to a biodegradable polysorbitol-based osmotically active transporter (PSOAT) and gene therapy using the same as a gene carrier. The biodegradable polysorbitol-based osmotically active transporter (PSOAT) of the present invention includes a sorbitol skeleton, which imparts an osmotic pressure to the cell membrane to improve membrane permeability, thereby exhibiting remarkably improved transfection efficiency. Further, the polysorbitol-based osmotically active transporter of the present invention exhibits high DNA binding ability, effectively protects DNA from nuclease, exhibits physicochemical properties suitable for use as a gene carrier, and has very low cytotoxicity in vitro and in vivo, thereby capable of being used as a gene carrier for gene therapy.
US09138485B2 Immunoconjugates with an intracellularly-cleavable linkage
The present invention relates to therapeutic conjugates with improved ability to target various diseased cells containing a targeting moiety (such as an antibody or antibody fragment), a linker and a therapeutic moiety, and further relates to processes for making and using the conjugates.
US09138480B2 Compositions and methods for stimulating hair growth
Methods and compositions for stimulating the growth of hair are disclosed wherein said compositions include a cyclopentane heptanoic acid, 2-cycloalkyl or arylalkyl compound represented by the formula I wherein the dashed bonds represent the presence or absence of a double bond which can be in the cis or trans configuration and A, B, Z, X, R1 and R2 are as defined in the specification and a penetration enhancer. Such compositions are used in stimulating hair growth of human or non-human animals.
US09138479B2 Formulations for the treatment of diabetes
Disclosed is a formulation for parenteral administration comprising insulin that comprises a pH memory between 1 to 4 or between 6 to 8 and an aprotic polar solvent, wherein the insulin is solubilized in the aprotic polar solvent, wherein the solubilized insulin comprises stable monomeric or dimeric forms of insulin or mixtures thereof, and wherein the water content of the formulation is equal to or less than 15% w/v.
US09138477B2 Uses for 4,17β-dihydroxyandrost-4-ene-3-one
The present invention relates to novel uses of 4,17β-dihydroxyandrost-4-ene-3-one (hereinafter 4-hydroxytestosterone), to a process for their preparation, to pharmaceutical compositions containing them, and to the use of said compounds for the prophylaxis and/or treatment of breast cancer in mammals irrespective of the estrogen-receptor status of the tumor.
US09138476B2 Nanoparticle-assisted ultrasound for cancer therapy
Methods for killing cancer cells and treating cancer in a subject by exposing the cells to nanoparticles, and irradiating with a focused, low to medium power ultrasound. The nanoparticles can be gold, iron oxide, copper, silver, polystyrene, PEG, or liposome nanoparticles. The nanoparticles can have a cancer drug attached, such as an antibody-based cancer drug.
US09138474B2 Composition comprising expression or activity inhibitors of Ninjurin1 for the prevention and treatment of inflammatory disease
The present invention relates to a composition comprising a Ninjurin1 expression or activity inhibitor for the prevention and treatment of inflammatory disease. Ninjurin1 protein is specifically expressed in macrophages around blood vessels, increases cell-cell adhesion and cell-matrix adhesion, increases expressions of Wnt7b (Wingless-type MMTV integration site family, member 7B) and Ang2 (angiopoietin-2), but reduces expression of Ang1 to induce apoptosis of vascular endothelial cells. In addition, Ninjurin1 protein is up-regulated when inflammation is induced and induces iNOS expression as well as increased NO generation. Therefore, the Ninjurin1 protein expression or activation inhibitor can be effectively used as an active ingredient of a composition for the prevention and treatment of inflammatory disease.
US09138472B2 CD40L vaccines, compositions, and methods related thereto
The disclosure relates to vaccinating a subject against a viral infection, compositions, and methods related thereto. In certain embodiments, the disclosure relates to the use of CD40L expressed on viral like particle as an adjuvant, in combination with a viral antigen, to vaccinate a subject.
US09138469B2 Bacterial ribonucleic acid cell wall compositions and methods of making and using them
The present invention relates to novel bacterial and mycobacterial compositions containing RNA and cell walls, and methods for making and using these compositions. These compositions have immune stimulating and anti-cancer activity.
US09138467B2 Immunologically active compositions
This invention provides a microparticle carrier system comprising of one or more proteins, peptides, nucleic acids, carbohydrates, lipids or other bioactive substances with or without targeting molecules attached. In addition, the invention also provides immune modulatory compositions and methods of eliciting protective immune responses both in uninfected and infected hosts as well as the induction of immune tolerance.
US09138465B2 Pharmaceutical composition for treating lysosomal storage disease
The purpose of the present invention is to provide, in a simple and also inexpensive manner, a pharmaceutical composition which comprises a plurality of lysosomal enzymes and is effective in treating lysosomal storage disease caused by a deficiency in a plurality of lysosomal enzymes. Provided is a pharmaceutical composition for treating lysosomal storage disease, the composition comprising as an active ingredient a lysosomal enzyme group obtained from cells derived from a subject who does not suffer from lysosomal storage disease.
US09138463B2 MalPEG-Hb conjugate-containing compositions for delivering carbon monoxide (CO) to cells
The present invention relates to compositions for delivering carbon monoxide (CO) to cells using heme proteins as carriers. In one embodiment, the present invention relates to the use of MalPEG surface modified hemoglobin to deliver CO to cells.
US09138459B2 ACTRIIB-FC polynucleotides, polypeptides, and compositions
In certain aspects, the present invention provides compositions and methods for modulating (promoting or inhibiting) growth of a tissue, such as bone, cartilage, muscle, fat, and/or neuron. The present invention also provides methods of screening compounds that modulate activity of an ActRII protein and/or an ActRII ligand. The compositions and methods provided herein are useful in treating diseases associated with abnormal activity of an ActRII protein and/or an ActRII ligand.
US09138458B2 Treatment for dupuytren's disease
Musculoskeletal fibroproliferative disorders, such as Dupuytren's disease may be treated by administering locally a TNF-α antagonist. TNF-α antagonists find particular utility in inhibiting the progression of early disease state Dupuytren's disease and other musculoskeletal fibroproliferative disorders and, in combination with extracellular matrix degradation agents (such ascollagenase or matrix metalloproteinase I), treating advanced disease state Dupuytren's disease and, in particular inhibiting recurrence.
US09138457B2 Therapeutic modulation of ocular surface lubrication
Provided herein are ophthalmically acceptable pharmaceutical compositions comprising a PRG4 inducing compound in combination with PRG4 (including a lubricant fragments, homologs, or isoforms thereof), and methods of using the same. The PRG4 inducing compound in the pharmaceutical composition of the present invention upregulates PRG4 expression and localization in the ocular surface for efficient surface boundary lubrication. In some instances, pharmaceutical compositions described herein are utilized for treating ophthalmic conditions, e.g., ocular boundary deficiency and symptoms associated therewith.
US09138456B2 Lipopeptide compositions and related methods
The present disclosure provides novel powder daptomycin formulations which have improved chemical stability and faster reconstitution times when in the solid state. Some examples of the compositions comprise daptomycin and sucrose.
US09138451B2 Plant extract hydrolysates and antibacterial product containing the same
The invention relates to a hydrolyzate from at least one extract of at least one plant material selected from the group consisting of at least one genus: Equiseti, Juglandis, Millefolii, Quercus, Taraxaci, Althaeae, Matricariae, Centaurium, Levisticum, Rosmarinus, Angelica(e), Artemisia, Astragalus, Leonurus, Salvia, Saposhnikovia, Scutellaria, Siegesbeckia, Armoracia, Capsicum, Cistus, Echinacea, Echinacea, Galphimia, Hedera, Melia, Olea, Pelargonium, Phytolacca, Primula, Salix, Thymus, Vitex, and Vitis; and to a mixture thereof and to a method of production and the use thereof. The invention further relates to an agent and drug obtainable on the basis of the hydrolyzate.
US09138445B2 Medical graft materials with adherent extracellular matrix fibrous mass
Described are medical grafting materials that include a base substrate material and an adherent fibrous mass of extracellular matrix components received upon the substrate material. Also described are methods of preparing and using such materials.
US09138444B2 Dried collagenous biomaterial medical device
The invention involves a submucosa tissue that has the capability of being shape formed or shape configured. The submucosa involves a purified form of submucosa tissue. Optionally, the submucosa can be packaged in such a manner to permit sterility or maintain sterility of the submucosa.
US09138443B2 Methods for modulating immune responses
The invention is directed to novel methods for modulating inflammatory and/or immune responses. Such methods utilize compositions comprising extraembryonic cells (herein referred to as EE cells) including but not limited to extraembryonic HLA-G positive cells (herein referred to as EHP cells) and amnion-derived multipotent progenitor cells (herein referred to as AMP cells); compositions comprising expanded EE cell populations, and/or cell lysates and/or conditioned media derived therefrom, alone or in combination with each other and/or in combination with various extracellular matrices and/or devices and/or other suitable active agents.
US09138440B2 Methods for using mifepristone to reduce the number of CD14+/DR-monocytes
This document provides methods and materials involved in reducing suppression of immune function in mammals. For example, methods and materials for (a) identifying a mammal as having an elevated level of CD14+/DR− cells (e.g., CD14+/DR− monocytes) and (b) administering RU486 (mifepristone; or drugs with a similar functional profile) to the identified mammal under conditions that change the ratio of CD14+/HLA-DR− cells to CD14+/HLA-DR+ cells as well as methods and materials for (a) identifying a mammal as being likely to experience an elevated level of CD14+/DR− cells (e.g., CD14+/DR− monocytes) and (b) administering RU486 (mifepristone; or drugs with a similar functional profile) to the identified mammal under conditions that reduce the degree to which the mammal develops CD14+/DR− cells are provided.
US09138436B2 Inhibitors of Bruton's tyrosine kinase
Described herein are kinase inhibitor compounds, methods for synthesizing such inhibitors, and methods for using such inhibitors in the treatment of diseases. Further described herein are methods, assays and systems for determining an appropriate inhibitor of a protein, including a kinase.
US09138435B2 Reduction of toxicity of multi-targeting antifolates
The use of tetrahydrofolate, methylene-tetrahydrofolate and/or methyl-tetrahydrofolate, and at least one multi-targeting antifolate, for the manufacture of a pharmaceutical composition for the treatment of cancer is disclosed. By combining the multi-targeting antifolate with tetrahydrofolate, methylene-tetrahydrofolate and/or methyl-tetrahydrofolate, it is possible to remarkably reduce toxic side-effects without diminishing the anti-tumor action of the drugs. A pharmaceutical composition, a kit comprising the pharmaceutical composition as well as a method for the treatment of cancer are also disclosed.
US09138433B2 Indole alkaloid compounds as melanogenesis promoters and uses thereof
Provided are indole alkaloid compounds of formula I, for example, pubescine, and the use of such compounds and compositions thereof to promote (e.g., enhance) melanogenesis and pigmentation. Also provided are plant extracts containing a compound of formula I, for example, pubescine, and the use of such a plant extract to promote (e.g., enhance) melanogenesis and pigmentation. The compound or plant extract may be prepared as pharmaceutical and cosmetic compositions, and may be used for the prevention and treatment of conditions that are related to aberrant melanogenesis activity.
US09138426B2 Aminotetrahydropyrans as dipeptidyl peptidase-IV inhibitors for the treatment of diabetes
The present invention is directed to novel substituted aminotetrahydropyrans of structural formula I which are inhibitors of the dipeptidyl peptidase-IV enzyme and which are useful in the treatment or prevention of diseases in which the dipeptidyl peptidase-IV enzyme is involved, such as diabetes and particularly Type 2 diabetes. The invention is also directed to pharmaceutical compositions comprising these compounds and the use of these compounds and compositions in the prevention or treatment of such diseases in which the dipeptidyl peptidase-IV enzyme is involved.
US09138425B2 Drug delivery system to increase bioavailability
A drug delivery system is presented to increase the bioavailability of biopharmaceutic class II, III, or IV active agents.
US09138424B2 Methods and compositions for treating cornelia de lange syndrome
Disclosed are methods and compositions for treating subjects with Cornelia de Lange Syndrome (CdLS). Specifically disclosed are methods for using Indomethacin or Acemetacin to treat subjects with CdLS. Also disclosed are methods for identifying compounds beneficial for the treatment of CdLS using an assay based on the expression of NIPBL or NIPBL homologous or orthologous genes. Also disclosed is a method of identifying compounds beneficial for the treatment of CdLS based on administering a test compound to Drosophila lava with reduced expression of Nipbl, and determining the normalization of CdLS phenotypes.
US09138421B2 Platinum compounds for treating cell proliferative diseases, preparation method and use thereof
Disclosed are a class of platinum compounds with a leaving group of malonic acid derivatives containing amino and alkylamino, their pharmaceutically acceptable salts, their preparation methods and pharmaceutical composites comprising them. Disclosed also are for the uses of the compounds in the treatment of cell proliferative diseases, particularly for the treatment of cancers. The present platinum compounds have high water solubility and low toxicity.
US09138419B2 Patch preparation
The problem of the present invention is to provide a patch preparation containing a drug (excluding 2-(4-ethyl-1-piperazinyl)-4-(4-fluorophenyl)-5,6,7,8,9,10-hexahydrocycloocta[b]pyridine and a physiologically acceptable acid addition salt thereof), which is superior in both the skin permeability of a drug, and adhesiveness in the presence of water.A patch preparation containing a support and an adhesive layer on one surface of the support, wherein the adhesive layer contains a drug excluding 2-(4-ethyl-1-piperazinyl)-4-(4-fluorophenyl)-5,6,7,8,9,10-hexahydrocycloocta[b]pyridine and a physiologically acceptable acid addition salt thereof, an acrylic polymer, lactic acid and magnesium aluminometasilicate.
US09138416B2 Sustained-release nanoparticle compositions and methods using the same
The present invention is a composition composed of a therapeutic agent encapsulated in a copolymer of an N-alkylacrylamide, a vinyl monomer, and a polyethylene glycol (PEG) conjugate and a method for using the same in the treatment or prevention of a disease or condition.
US09138414B1 Calcium supplement having enhanced absorption
Dietary calcium supplements comprising highly bioavailable forms of calcium carbonate and methods of using these calcium carbonate forms to improve calcium balance, strengthen bones, and prevent, treat, and/or ameliorate bone loss associated with osteoporosis are provided.
US09138408B2 Use of taurine for treating alopecia
The invention relates to a method of treating and preventing ageing of the pilosebaceous unit and/or alopecia in human through the administration of taurine and/or hypotaurine and/or the acceptable salts thereof in an oral composition. Specifically, the invention relates to a method of treating and preventing miniaturization of the hair follicle. The invention also relates to the use of polyphenols to achieve these same ends. Finally, the invention relates to oral compositions that include polyphenols or taurine and/or hypotaurine and/or the acceptable salts thereof as active ingredients.
US09138406B2 Composition for combating epistaxis
The invention relates to a gel composition comprising: a) a carboxy polymethylene polymer; b) glycine; c) a source of calcium ions; and d) water. The invention also extends to a dry composition comprising the aforementioned components a), b) and c). The gel compositions of the invention are useful for the prophylaxis and treatment of epistaxis. The gel compositions can be easily administered to the nasal cavity and do not require removal after use.
US09138404B2 Treating critically ill patients with intravenous ibuprofen
Methods of treating at least one condition chosen from pain, inflammation, and fever in a critically ill patient in need thereof, comprising administering to the critically ill patient an intravenous pharmaceutical composition comprising ibuprofen using a first dosage regimen, wherein the first dosage regimen produces a first pharmacokinetic profile in critically ill patients that is about equivalent to a second pharmacokinetic profile produced by administration of the intravenous pharmaceutical composition using a second dosage regimen of ibuprofen to non-critically ill patients, wherein the at least one condition of the critically ill patient is thereby treated.
US09138402B2 Aripiprazole compositions and methods for its transdermal delivery
The present invention discloses compositions of liquid and gel formulation containing aripiprazole in the form of a patch for transdermal delivery.
US09138400B2 Cosmetic use of skin cell autophagy activators
The object of the invention is the use in a cosmetic composition of an effective amount of at least one cutaneous cell autophagy activator as a cosmetic active ingredient. The invention also relates to cosmetic compositions that include at least one cutaneous cell autophagy activator as a cosmetic active ingredient 5 and a cosmetic process for detoxifying skin and/or for preventing or combating cutaneous aging.
US09138396B2 Sunscreen compositions having synergistic combination of UV filters
The disclosure relates to sunscreen compositions having a synergistic combination of ultraviolet light (UV) filtering agents that provide a high sun protection factor (SPF). Compositions according to the disclosure have high SPF values without requiring high overall amounts of UV filtering agents. Furthermore, the disclosure relates to methods of using the described compositions for protecting keratinous substances such as skin and hair from UV radiation.
US09138392B2 Process for depigmenting keratin materials using thiopyridinone compounds
Provided is a nontherapeutic cosmetic process for depigmenting, lightening and/or whitening keratin materials applying an effective amount of at least one compound of formula (I): or a tautomer thereof of formula (I′): to a keratin material, where the structural variables are as defined herein.
US09138383B1 Nanogel materials and methods of use thereof
The present invention provides soluble nanogel polymers produced by polymerization of a monomer mixture comprising a monovinyl monomer, multivinyl monomer, and an iniferter. The disclosure also provides a reactive nanogel with pendant reactive groups such as oxirane or (meth)acrylate groups.
US09138379B2 Drug delivery methods and related products
This disclosure relates to drug delivery methods and related products. In some aspects, a method includes selecting a drug vial combination by comparing a prescribed drug dosage to a dosing schedule, and delivering substantially all of the first drug from each of the selected drug vials to a patient by operating a pump of a drug delivery device to which the drug vials are connected.
US09138378B2 Blister package and method of forming same
A blister package is defined for retaining product. The package is formed from a receptacle substrate having a planer sealing flange and at least one receptacle hollow for retaining product therein. A top layer is provided, covering the receptacle hollow with a portion overlapping and sealed to the sealing flange. A score pattern is formed in the top layer for promoting propagation of a tear upon forcing product from receptacle hollow against the top layer. The score pattern is defined by a plurality of rows of parallel straight lines aligned with the receptacle hollow. In addition, a plurality of spaced curved or bowed score lines are provided. The curved or bowed score lines transversely intersect the rows of straight lines above the receptacle hollow.
US09138375B2 Intraoral acupressure apparatus
An intraoral acupressure apparatus and method of treating a user are disclosed. The apparatus may include a base shaped to conform to a palate of a user, the base configured to be removably held adjacent to the palate in a predetermined position relative to acupressure points located on the user's palate. The apparatus may additionally include one or more projections extending out from the base and configured to contact one or more acupressure points of the user's palate when the apparatus is removably held in the predetermined position. The base may be configured to be removably held in the predetermined position without wire hooks or clasps.
US09138374B2 Irrigation fluid collection basins that receive portions of the human anatomy
Various embodiments of irrigation fluid collection basins are disclosed. The basin is configured for irrigation of a wound or fracture generally located on a portion of the human anatomy, such as a knee, shin, calf, elbow, or otherwise. The basin can include two recesses located on opposite sides of the basin along an upper periphery of the basin. The recesses are configured to receive the portion of the human anatomy (e.g., a leg) at two regions proximal to the location of the wound or fracture, so that the wound or fracture is located over the cavity of the basin. The recesses can be sized so that one is broader than the other, the broader recess configured to comfortably accommodate a larger region of the leg and the other recess configured to comfortably accommodate a smaller region of the leg.
US09138373B2 Massage device
A massage device, methods and apparatus are disclosed. Embodiments of a massage device are provided that include a first end configured to be held and manipulated by the hand of a user and a second end configured for application to a portion of the human body. The device firth includes a flexible portion connecting the first end to the second end. The flexible portion contains a source of vibrational motion and has a rigidity of an amount sufficient to transmit the vibrational motion from the source to the second end of the device. The second end may be constructed of a flexible material that allows the material to flutter and magnify the vibrational motion.
US09138371B2 Therapeutic garment, apparatus, method, and system having inflatable bladders
A therapeutic garment includes at least one first expandable bladder configured to underlie a wearer's left shoulder blade, at least one second expandable bladder configured to underlie the wearer's right shoulder blade, and an actuator configured to alternatingly (a) expand the at least one first expandable bladder from a collapsed state to an expanded state such that the wearer's torso is rolled in a rightward direction and (b) expand the at least one second expandable bladder from a collapsed state to an expanded state such that the wearer's torso is rolled in a leftward direction.
US09138368B2 Joint motion facilitation device
When air is supplied by an air pressure regulation part to bellows 211 through 213 of finger joint motion facilitation parts 110j (where j=1, . . . , 5), the bellows 211 through 213 expand approximately in the shape of circular arcs, since annular grooves on the side of the bellows 211 through 213 opposing a joint are elastically restrained by elastic members 241 through 243. Due to this, the bellows 211 through 213 cooperate, and exert force in the rotational direction to flex the first through the third joints of a finger from their extended states. Next, when air is exhausted from the bellows by the air pressure regulation part, the bellows 211 through 213 contract. Due to this, the bellows 211 through 213 cooperate, and exert force in the rotational direction to extend the first through the third joints of a finger from their flexed states. The forces generated in this manner are transmitted to the joints by transmission members 231 through 234. As a result mounting becomes simple, and also it is possible to facilitate sufficient joint movement for each joint.
US09138364B2 Wheelchair guiding
Among other things, an apparatus includes a wheelchair control device sensitive to motion and adapted to attach to a user's head, and includes a wheelchair interface device in communication with the wheelchair control device and adapted to manipulate a control system of a motorized wheelchair in response to communication from the wheelchair control device. Among other things, a method includes causing a motorized wheelchair to change velocity in response to changing a position of a head-mounted wheelchair control device.
US09138360B1 Disposable absorbent article with unitary topsheet and unitary absorbent article
The present invention relates to disposable absorbent articles such as sanitary napkins, panty liners, baby diapers, adult incontinence articles and sweat pads. According to the present invention the absorbent article in the region designated for liquid deposition on its wearer facing surface has a single layer topsheet onto which liquid to be absorbed is provided during use of the article. The absorbent article includes a backsheet forming the liquid barrier surface and a unitary absorbent core between the topsheet and the backsheet. Importantly the unitary core provides improved liquid handling to the absorbent article and increases the masking, i.e. ability to hide stains due to absorbed liquid, of the article. This is particularly beneficial in the context of articles for absorption of liquids with high color intensity, such as menstrual liquid or urine of older adults.
US09138358B2 Cloth diaper
A reusable, cloth diaper of singular construction is provided. The diaper is generally shaped like a classic hourglass configuration, and includes a pair of absorbent flaps in a cross-flap configuration on an inner portion thereof, wherein one flap is attached to a rear portion of the diaper and the other flap is attached to a front portion of the diaper, each adjacent to the child's waist. The outer layer of the diaper is preferably made from a blend of bamboo and cotton, and includes a polyurethane laminate layer on the inner surface of the outer layer. The diaper construction further includes means for adjusting waist and crotch sizes, as well as storage snap means for securing the diaper into a rolled up storage and transport configuration.
US09138357B2 Thong-style sanitary pad and disposable thong for supporting same
An improved sanitary pad for use in a thong-style pair of underwear to absorb and retain anticipated menstrual flow volume and at the anticipated flow rate contains a double layer of absorbent material in a waisted, water impervious flexible channel. The waisting of the channel is sized to accommodate the narrow lateral width of the thong saddle. The upright substantially flat or otherwise smooth sides of the channel guide flow entering a capture zone of the pad saddle away from the capture zone to longitudinally outer reservoir zones formed in the front and rear of the pad. In one embodiment flexible guides, which may be longitudinal rails of a flexible water-impervious substance or material, run longitudinally or substantially parallel to the sides of the channel, spaced inwardly therefrom, to assist in guiding or urging flow in and below the capture zone longitudinally towards the reservoir zones.
US09138353B2 Earplug and pumping systems
An earplug is provided. The earplug includes at least a partially flexible distal end; an inflatable element; and a flexible anti-distal end. The anti-distal end has at least one portion that is deformable. The inflatable element is operatively attached to the distal end by an inflation channel. When the at least one portion is deformed the inflatable element expands to an adjustable pressure. At least one portion of the anti-distal end provides a pressurizing force to maintain the expansion of the inflatable element.
US09138348B2 Apparatus and method for operating a laser materials processing and measurement device
An apparatus for operating a laser materials processing and measurement device with a controllable laser for generating a laser beam and beam control means for adjusting the focus zone of a controlled portion of the laser beam in three spatial directions comprises an interface for operating a bidirectional data transfer link with the laser and the beam control means, and user control means for inputting and displaying control commands or control command sequences and for monitoring and/or controlling operation and/or the operating state of the device. So that all the components of the apparatus may also be tested with regard to all functionalities, if the laser materials processing and measurement device is not operationally ready and/or not connected to the interface, according to the invention the apparatus comprises simulation means for simulating operation of the device and/or of the user control means.
US09138347B2 Intraocular irrigator-aspirator tip component
An ophthalmic irrigator-aspirator has a handpiece with aspiration and irrigation openings through its distal end; and a narrow aspiration tip projecting distally. A flexible sleeve has an annular hub for watertight connection to the handpiece. The sleeve has an intermediate portion that forms a channel for an irrigation fluid along the exterior of the tip to an irrigation port in the sleeve. The distal end portion of the sleeve is sized for a watertight connection over the distal portion of the tip. Such distal end portion of the sleeve has an aspiration port in communication with the tip aspiration port. The sleeve proximate, intermediate, and distal portions are integral with each other and are formed of a resilient material that allows the sleeve to be tightly fitted on the handpiece and tip.
US09138344B2 Apparatus and method of gastric cooling using balloon catheter
A balloon catheter is used in a closed-loop heat exchange system for manipulating the temperature of a patient. The balloon catheter is positioned in the stomach of the patient, and then expanded with a heat exchange fluid delivered through a lumen formed in the shaft of the catheter. The balloon catheter comes into contact with the wall of the stomach, and the stomach substantially conforms around the expanded balloon catheter. The heat exchange fluid is allowed to flow continuously into and out of the balloon catheter. Heat is exchanged between the balloon catheter and the stomach so as to controllably alter the temperature of at least a portion of the patient. Anti-shivering mechanisms and automatic control based on temperature feedback from the patient may be used in connection with the heat exchange system.
US09138342B2 Adjustable oral interface and method to maintain upper airway patency
This invention provides an oral apparatus and method capable of alleviating or curing snore and obstructive sleep apnea by applying a negative pressure through a mini oral interface to the oral cavity. The mini oral interface creates a secure connection to mouth and prevents disengaging from patient's mouth during sleeping. The negative pressure pulls the tongue toward upper palate and also pulls the soft palate forward as well. By moving the tongue and the soft tissue in a forward direction, the patency of the upper airway near the pharynx is maintained to prevent sleep-disordered breathing. The negative pressure will pull the lips inward to close the mouth preventing air from entering the oral cavity from atmosphere. The negative pressure will also pull the soft palate into contact with the rear surface of the tongue to create a seal that prevents the air from entering the oral cavity through the nasal airway.
US09138336B2 Expandable distension device for hollow organ growth
An expandable mechanical distension device for hollow organ growth comprising a spring stent structure to elongate hollow organs by mechanical expansion. The device preferably expands radially to engage the internal walls of the hollow organ segment at a desired treatment location and expands axially to enlarge the hollow organ segment. The distension device may be configured for the treatment of patients with insufficient hollow viscus, e.g. hollow organ deficiency such as short gut syndrome, to enhance their gut length by mechanical force.
US09138334B2 Medical device
A medical device with a radially compressible and expandable lattice structure (10) contains at least one closed cell (15) delimited in each case by four webs (11, 12, 13, 14) coupled to one another in one piece, of which at least one web (11, 12, 13, 14) is embodied as a stabilisation web (11, 13) with a first web width b1 and at least two further webs (11, 12, 13, 14) are embodied as connecting webs (12, 14) with a second web width b2, wherein the connecting webs (12, 14) are arranged inside the cell (15) so that they lie parallel opposite one another and are connected to one another by the stabilisation webs (11, 13) and wherein the ratio b1/b2 between the first web width b1 and the second web width b2 is at least 1.2.
US09138333B2 Intervertebral implant for the fusion between two vertebral bodies of a vertebral column and corresponding positioning instrument
An intervertebral implant for the fusion between two vertebral bodies of a vertebral column may include a body having two opposite surfaces and holes or cavities for filling purposes during bone growth, and an engagement portion for receiving a gripping end of a positioning instrument. The engagement portion may be shaped as a splined shaft accessible through an opening of the body.
US09138329B2 Vertebral disc prosthesis
A prosthesis for a vertebral column has an upper part (10) for attachment to an upper vertebrae, a lower part (12) for attachment to a lower vertebrae and a middle part (11) located between the upper and the lower parts, wherein the upper part has a lower surface portion with a first radius of curvature, the middle part has an upper surface portion with a second radius of curvature and a lower surface with a third radius of curvature and the lower part has an upper surface with a fourth radius of curvature. The center of the radius of curvature for at least two surfaces is offset rearwardly with respect to a central vertical axis (13) through the upper and lower vertebrae and/or the upper and lower parts. Also defined is device for linking bones, in the form of a band with attachment portions having a number of filaments that provide zones conducive to cellular growth as well as a method of modelling a prosthesis and a process for analysing performance of a prosthesis.
US09138328B2 Radially expandable spinal interbody device and implantation tool
A spinal interbody device includes a base link having a first end and a second end, and a linkage including a first link having a first end and a second end and a second link having a first end and a second end. The first end of the first link is coupled to the first end of the base link at a first hinge, the second end of the first link is coupled to the first end of the second link at a second hinge; and the second end of the second link is coupled to the second end of the base link at a third hinge.
US09138326B2 Joint implant
A joint implant includes an upper and a lower implant part which are connected to each other, and a longitudinal axis of the implant. The implant parts each include a joint part having a joint region and an abutment part that can be abutted against the respective bone. The joint part and the abutment part are detachably connected to each other. The two joint parts each include a joint region and cooperate with each other, thus forming the articulated connection, or with an intermediate element having opposite upper and lower sides as abutment surfaces, thus forming two sub-joint. A connecting device interconnects the upper and lower implant part so as to form a coherent assembly and that can change its position relative to the upper and/or lower joint part.
US09138325B2 Lamina implant and method
A prosthetic implant for restoring lamina after a laminectomy. The implant is generally a lamina-sized construct having a hollow interior. The lamina removed during the laminectomy may be converted to autologous bone that may then be placed inside the hollow interior of the implant. The implant may then be secured to the spine at the site of the laminectomy so that lamina restoration can occur as the hollow interior of the implant solidifies with bone growth.
US09138322B2 Knee prosthesis having cross-compatible dome and anatomic patella components
An orthopaedic implant assembly includes a plurality of dome patella components and a plurality of anatomic patella components. Each of the dome patella components and the anatomic patella components is interchangeable with a plurality of femoral components. Each of the plurality of dome patella components and each of the plurality of anatomic patella components are configured to be positioned in contact with any of the plurality of femoral components.
US09138321B2 Prosthetic components with secondary retention
An implantable orthopaedic knee prosthesis assembly includes a femoral component, a stem component, a fastener, and a retention device. The femoral component is configured to be implanted into a distal end of a femur of a patient and includes a stem post having a proximal tapered bore, a distal passageway, and a threaded passageway connecting the proximal tapered bore and the distal passageway. The stem component is configured to taper fit to the femoral component and includes a bore formed therein extending proximally and a threaded aperture defined at a proximal end of the bore. The head of the fastener is configured to be received in the distal passageway, whereas the proximal end of the shaft of the fastener is configured to be positioned in the threaded aperture. The retention device is received in the threaded passageway and prevents the proximal end of the fastener from reentering the threaded passageway.
US09138320B2 Hip joint device and method
A medical device for implantation in a hip joint of a patient is provided. The medical device is adapted to be fixated to the pelvic bone of the patient. The medical device comprises an inner and an outer surface, a contacting portion of the inner surface is spherical and adapted to face the center of the hip joint when said medical device is implanted, and said medical device is adapted to receive a caput femur or a prosthetic caput femur having a spherical portion. The medical device comprises at least one extending portion adapted to clasp the caput femur, or prosthetic caput femur, for restraining said caput femur, or prosthetic caput femur in said medical device. The medical device is adapted to release the caput femur or prosthetic caput femur from the medical device when a predetermined strain is placed on the medical device. The ability of the medical device to release the caput femur or prosthetic caput femur from the medical device when a predetermined strain is placed on the medical device reduces the risk that the prosthesis is loosened by an abnormal strain being placed on the hip joint from e.g. the patient falling or making a rapid movement of the hip.
US09138315B2 Medical device for treating a heart valve insufficiency or stenosis
A medical device for treating a heart valve insufficiency, with an endoprosthesis which can be introduced into a patient's body and expanded to secure a heart valve prosthesis in the patient's aorta with a catheter. In an embodiment, the endoprosthesis has a plurality of positioning arches configured to be positioned with respect to a patient's aorta and a plurality of retaining arches to support a heart valve prosthesis. The endoprosthesis includes a collapsed mode during the process of introducing it into the patient's body and an expanded mode when it is implanted. The endoprosthesis may be introduced into a patient's body and expanded via a catheter. In an embodiment, the catheter has first and second slide mechanisms configured to independently manipulate first and second sleeve elements to sequentially expand the endoprosthesis from the collapsed mode to the expanded mode.
US09138310B2 Soft prosthesis shell texturing method
A method of texturing a soft prosthetic implant shell, such as a silicone breast implant shell. A soft prosthetic implant with a textured external surface layer of silicone elastomer and having an open-cell structure is made by adhering and then dissolving round salt crystals. The resulting roughened surface has enhanced physical properties relative to surfaces formed with angular salt crystals. An implant having such a textured external surface layer is expected to help prevent capsular contraction, to help prevent scar formation, and to help in anchoring the implant within the body.
US09138309B2 Porous materials, methods of making and uses
The present specification discloses porous materials, methods of forming such porous materials, biocompatible implantable devices comprising such porous materials, and methods of making such biocompatible implantable devices.
US09138308B2 Mucosal tissue adhesion via textured surface
The present specification discloses porous materials, methods of forming such porous material, biocompatible implantable devices comprising such porous materials, and methods of making such biocompatible implantable devices. The porous material may be used to fix to the interior mucosal lining of a patient's gastrointestinal tract.
US09138305B2 Implants and methods of securing the same
In one embodiment, an implant includes a support member defining an opening and a strap being configured to extend through the opening defined by the support member. The strap includes a first retention member and a second retention member. The first retention member is configured to engage the support member to couple the strap to the support member. The second retention member being configured to engage bodily tissue of a patient to couple the strap to the bodily tissue. In another embodiment, an implant includes a support member defining an opening and a strap defining an opening. The strap is configured to be coupled to the support member and to bodily tissue of a patient. The strap is configured to extend through the opening defined by the support member and the opening defined by the strap.
US09138304B2 Bite-actuated tooth cleaning techniques
New chewing-actuated teeth cleaning techniques are provided. In some aspects of the invention, a device with bite-actuated cleaning features is provided, which may comprise, tooth-guiding channels and variable openings enabling the variable bite-actuated application of a dentifrice for bite-actuated scrubbing. In further aspects, internal springs and the tension of surrounding material drive bite actuation of protrusions. In other aspects, intermediate antechambers, and/or interstitial fluid, gel or other medium, aid in enabling re-sealing an inner chamber following penetration of the CleanChew. This aspect may also be applied to a variety of related arts, including but not limited to pneumatic tires, to aid in remediating gas or fluid leaks from piercing.
US09138301B2 Medical device and surface modification method for medical device
The invention provides a medical device in which a metallic porous body is joined to at least a part of a surface of the main body of a medical device, and a surface modification method for the medical device. The metallic porous body is formed in multilayers.
US09138299B2 Method and system for establishing the shape of the occlusal access cavity in endodontic treatment
A computer based method and system for defining and representing a shape and geometry of an occlusal access cavity to the tooth roots prior to endodontic treatment, include the step or elements for: loading onto the computer information of the geometry of a tooth obtained via one or more imaging techniques, creation of a 3D computer model of the tooth, including its internal architecture, visualization of the computer model, visualization of the location(s) of the entrance(s) to root canal(s) relative to the tooths occlusal surface, and based on the locations of the root canal orifices a shape of the access cavity is calculated.
US09138296B2 Packaging for medical devices with window
An housing for a medical device includes an insert configured for removable insertion into the housing, outer dimensions of the insert conforming to inner dimensions of the housing to prevent movement thereof within the housing. The insert includes first and second planar walls connected to one another and having first and second openings extending therethrough. The first and second walls are movable between an open configuration in which the first and second walls are separated from one another and a closed configuration in which the first and second walls are folded to contact one another such that the first and second openings are aligned to define a medical device receiving cavity configured to house a medical device. In the closed configuration, the first and second walls apply a frictional clamping force to a packet containing the medical device to prevent movement of the medical device relative to the inlay.
US09138295B2 Temperature-stabilized medicinal storage systems
Systems include one or more medicinal storage containers. For example, an integrally thermally sealed medicinal storage container may include one or more segments of at least one ultra efficient insulation material, the one or more segments having one or more surface regions, the one or more segments principally defining at least one storage region, one or more regions of substantially thermally sealed connections between at least one of the one or more surface regions of the one or more segments wherein the one or more regions of substantially thermally sealed connections and the one or more segments form at least one integrally thermally sealed medicinal storage region, one or more thermal variant units, and at least one selectively-operable thermal conduction unit.
US09138293B1 Intravascular treatment of lesions using magnetic nanoparticles
Vascular lesions and plaque can be removed using a treatment based on introduction of magnetic nanoparticles into the circulatory system of a patient having such vascular lesions. The particles in an aqueous suspension are injected near the site of the lesion and magnetic forces are used to immobilize the particles in contact with the lesions. An alternating magnetic field or focused electromagnetic energy is then used to heat the particles, thereby destroying the lesion. Following destruction of the lesion, additional populations of magnetic particles having growth factors, anti-inflammatory agents and other medicaments on their surfaces can be localized at the site of the former lesion. These medicated particles accelerate healing at the site.
US09138291B2 Catheter structure and method for locating tissue in a body organ and simultaneously delivering therapy and evaluating the therapy delivered
A catheter structure is provided for use with an electroviscerogram (EVG) system. The catheter structure includes an elongated tube structure having distal and proximal ends. Three electrodes are associated with distal end of the tube structure and are constructed and arranged obtain signals relating to myoelectrical activity internally of an intra-abdominal organ to thereby locate targeted tissue that includes main pathways of electrical generation in the organ. Therapy delivery structure, associated with the distal end of the tube structure and separate from the electrodes, is constructed and arranged to provide therapy at the targeted tissue simultaneously as the electrodes obtain the signals at the targeted tissue so that effectiveness of the therapy can be monitored.
US09138290B2 Method of ablating arterial plaque
A method of ablating plaque from an artery section, using a catheter having a longitudinal body and a distal imaging and ablation tip connected to a distal end of the longitudinal body. The tip has an ultrasound imaging array, and a distal, forward directed face, distal to the ultrasound imaging array, and including a set of electrodes arranged circumferentially about the distal face. The catheter further includes a set of conductors connected to the tip and extending through the body. The catheter is connected to an image display. In the method the tip is introduced into the artery section and images the artery section in front, thereby creating imagery of the artery, which is shown on the image display. This imagery is reviewed and in reliance thereon selectively the electrodes are selectively activated to ablate plaque, while not activating any electrode that would damage any bare arterial wall.
US09138288B2 Methods and devices for use of degassed fluids with fluid enhanced ablation devices
Devices, systems, and methods for degassing fluid prior to applying fluid to a treatment site during ablation therapy are provided. In one embodiment, an ablation system can include an elongate body, an ablation element, a heating assembly, and a fluid source. Fluid in the fluid source can be at least partially degassed prior to being provided as part of the system, or, in some embodiments, a degassing apparatus can be provided that can be configured to degas fluid within the system prior to applying the fluid to the treatment site. The degassing apparatus can include one or more gas-permeable and fluid-impermeable tubes disposed therein, which can allow gas to be removed from fluid passing through the apparatus. Other exemplary devices, systems, and methods are also provided.
US09138276B2 Intervertebral implant with integrated fixation
A system for spinal surgery includes a prosthesis comprising a plurality of bone anchors which engage an intervertebral construct for fusion or motion preservation. The fusion construct comprises a spacer optionally encircled by a jacket. The motion preservation construct may comprise an articulating disc assembly or an elastomeric disc assembly. Any of the constructs may occupy the intervertebral disc space between adjacent vertebrae after removal of an intervertebral disc. The anchors slidingly engage the construct to securely fix the prosthesis to the vertebrae. The anchors and jacket of the fusion construct provide a continuous load path across opposite sides of the prosthesis so as to resist antagonistic motions of the spine.
US09138273B2 Guide assembly for lateral implants and associated methods
A method for use in guiding a lateral fastener into a lateral bore of a femoral body implant. The method can use an outrigger having an arm portion, a leg portion that extends from the arm portion, and an alignment tube that extends from the leg portion. The method can further use a support pad and an adjustable shaft member that couples to the support pad and the leg portion. A shaft member can be adjustably maintained in a position relative to the leg portion by a quick-release system.
US09138268B2 Periprosthetic fracture repair system including discrete stabilized crimp lugs for cerclage cable and tool therefor
A system, devices and methods are provided for facilitating stabilization of periarticular fractures. The system includes a compression plate and one or more of a cerclage cable for encircling the bone and securing the compression plate to the bone, a crimp lug for securing the cable in tension relative to the bone and/or a plate, and a supplemental plate coupled to the compression plate and adapted to receive bicortical or unicortical bone screws to further secure the compression plate relative to the bone. In addition, the system includes a cable tensioner for temporarily retaining the cable in tension and then applying a tension to the cable until a desired compression is effected between a plate and bone and while a cable retaining structure is secured to the cable to retain the applied tension on the cable. Also provided is a jig for use with plates for minimally invasive fracture stabilization.
US09138266B2 Intramedullary nail
Intramedullary nail for distraction of a long bone with an at least partially hollow shank extending in an axial direction of the intramedullary nail, locking element for locking the shank in a first bone fragment of the long bone, a first inner section which is arranged in axially movable manner within the shank and has a through hole orientated in the radial direction for accommodating a segment bolt for fixing a bone segment of the long bone, wherein the shank has an elongated hole in the area of the inner section for passing through of the segment bolt, an actuator for axially moving the first inner section, wherein a second inner section is arranged within the shank so as to be axially movable.
US09138264B2 Laminoplasty rod system
A laminoplasty rod and rod system that allows for variable angulation, translation (distraction and/or compression) and rotation of a spinal lamina bone portion associated with a laminoplasty. The laminoplasty rod is used with a polyaxial spinal rod bone screw assembly anchored to the vertebra associated with the laminoplasty, and is attachable to the spinal lamina bone portion. The laminoplasty rod system provides positional attachment of the rod to the spinal components and fixation thereof in various orientations. The laminoplasty rod system includes a configured laminoplasty rod that fits into or onto the head of a polyaxial spinal rod bone screw assembly. A bone screw boss, defining a bone screw attachment configuration, is formed at one end of the laminoplasty rod. Preferably, but not necessarily, the bone screw boss is situated at an angled end of the rod having a pre-defined bend that provides for greater variation in rod orientation.
US09138263B2 Flexible spine components
An improved flexible component used for dynamic stabilization of spinal segments for the treatment of vertebrae deformities and injuries and for the replacement of a complete or segment of the body of a vertebra in the spine is described. The flexible component is comprised of a solid, suitable implant material with a longitudinal bore the entire length and an appropriately formed slot which extends spirally around the shaft either continuously or segmentally. The flexible component may be encapsulated, fully or partially, in a suitable implant grade elastomeric resilient material. When used for a dynamic stabilization device, the component is attached to the vertebral bodies by pedicle screws know to those in the art. When used as a vertebral replacement device, attached to the component's opposite ends are members for attachment to the adjacent vertebra that allow for height and angular adjustment.
US09138262B2 Polyaxial screw
The present invention generally is directed toward a spinal fixation system whereby a coupling element allows the physician to selectively lock or unlock either the connection between the coupling element and a fastener, such as to allow for repositioning of the coupling element, or the connection between the coupling element and an elongate rod. The locking or unlocking of these connections may be made independently and as desired by the physician.
US09138257B2 Rotating handheld motorized hand-piece including combination interchangeable microdermabrasion brush head, interchangeable heads having a latex sponge, and hook and loop fasteners to removably retain cleaning pads
A handheld apparatus including (a) a motorized hand-piece including a mechanical rotatable coupling shaft which is caused to rotate so that it imparts a rotating motion to the coupling shaft; (b) an interface cup member which includes a body with an exterior surface having hook and loop fasteners thereon and a lower surface with an interface opening which is affixed to the coupling member of the mechanical rotatable shaft; and (c) the hand-piece individually retaining a multiplicity of different interchangeable components which are used for different purposes, each different component affixed on one surface to the hook and loop fasteners of the interface cup and which rotate when the motorized hand piece is energized and causes the interface cup to rotate.
US09138249B2 Shock wave catheter system with arc preconditioning
A shock wave catheter system and method produces a shock wave with reduced energy. The system includes a catheter and a power source. The catheter has an elongated carrier and a balloon about the carrier in sealed relation thereto. The balloon is arranged to receive a fluid therein that inflates the balloon. The catheter further includes an arc generator including at least two electrodes within the balloon. The power source is coupled to the at least two electrodes and is configured to grow a bubble at one of the at least two electrodes and then thereafter to rapidly expand the bubble to form a shock wave within the balloon.
US09138247B2 Customized patient-specific orthopaedic pin guides
Customized patient-specific orthopaedic surgical instruments are disclosed. Methods for fabricating and using such instruments are also disclosed.
US09138243B2 Bone compactor
A bone compacting device for compacting cancellous bone within a bone cavity, the bone compacting device including a body having a plurality of segments, wherein each segment is adjacent to at least one adjacent segment between a first end and a second end of the body, and wherein each of the plurality of segments is independently expandable to contact the cancellous bone.
US09138240B2 Surgical instrument
The invention relates to a surgical instrument comprising a handling part and a tool part that encompasses at least one movably mounted tool which is actuated via a force-transmitting and/or actuating mechanism. The force-transmitting and/or actuating mechanism is operated from the handling part and is provided with a fluid-operated drive unit. With the drive unit in a first driving position the movably mounted tool is subjected to a first actuating force in an actuating direction and in at least a second driving position is subjected to at least a second actuating force in the actuating direction.
US09138238B2 Method of assembling and positioning a femoral orthopaedic surgical instrument
A method for performing an orthopaedic surgical procedure on a femur includes attaching a proximal end of an intramedullary adaptor to an intramedullary orthopaedic surgical instrument, securing a distal end of an intramedullary adaptor to a base cutting block, inserting the intramedullary orthopaedic surgical instrument into a medullary canal using the base cutting block, and positioning the base cutting block on a distal end of the femur.
US09138236B2 Tourniquet hazard suppressor
A tourniquet hazard suppressor suppresses an action initiated by a user of a surgical tourniquet system having a touchscreen user interface if implementation of that action by the system may be hazardous to a surgical patient.
US09138234B2 Clip apparatus for ligature of living tissue
A clip apparatus for ligature of living tissue is provided. The clip apparatus includes a clip that can be opened and closed multiple times prior to locking in a closed position on the tissue.
US09138233B2 Apparatus and method for tissue adhesion
An array of a plurality of shape memory material microposts have a proximal end configured to be secured to a substrate with a tissue penetrating distal end. The microposts further have a deployment state with the microposts in a substantially straightened configuration with a substantially smooth and continuous outer surface which is substantially parallel to adjacent microposts and an engaged state wherein at least a section of the microposts assume a configuration that is not substantially parallel to adjacent microposts or is not substantially straight with a substantially smooth and continuous outer surface so as to mechanically capture tissue adjacent thereto.
US09138230B1 Systems and methods for creating arteriovenous (AV) fistulas
An AV fistula between first and second blood vessels is created by forming a hole through adjacent walls of the vessels and inserting a welding catheter into the first vessel, and through the hole into the second vessel, so that a distal end of the catheter is disposed within the second vessel. A portion of wall defining the welding catheter is then expanded radially outwardly, and the expanded wall portion is pulled proximally to engage the wall of the second blood vessel and to pull it toward the wall of the first blood vessel. A portion of wall proximal to the first expanded wall portion and disposed in the first blood vessel is expanded radially outwardly, thereby capturing the walls of each of the second and first blood vessels between the two expanded wall portions. Cutting elements are energized to create a tissue welded elongate aperture between the blood vessels.
US09138229B2 Tissue retaining system
A tissue retaining system having a pair of tissue retainers for retaining two end portions of tubular tissue, such as a heart valve, to a bioreactor is disclosed. Each tissue retainer includes a stepped portion that permits custom fitting of the tissue retainer to a particular size of tubular tissue. The stepped portion of each tissue retainer defines a plurality of progressively larger concentric steps in which one of the concentric steps matches the size of a particular tubular tissue being engaged. The tubular tissue is then anchored to the tissue retainer by suture pull downs that anchor the tubular tissue to one of the concentric steps of the tissue retainer in a fluid tight engagement. This engagement process is repeated to secure the other end portion of the tubular tissue to another tissue retainer such that the tissue retaining system may then be engaged to the bioreactor.
US09138213B2 Heart occlusion devices
The disclosure is directed to a heart occlusion device and a method for occluding an aperture defect in a heart. The heart occlusion device includes two separate wires 12, 14. Each wire forms geometric shapes that together form a distal plate and a proximal plate. The first plate is disposed in a first plane. The second plate is disposed in a second plane that is parallel to and remote from the first plane. The distal plate and the proximal plate are separated by a self-centering waist. The proximal plate is attached to a hub. A similar hub is optional on the distal plate. The plates further include coverings which form a sealant to occlude an aperture in a tissue. The wires forming the plates have a shape-memory capability such that they can be collapsed and distorted in a catheter during delivery but resume and maintain their intended shape after delivery.
US09138205B2 Sample recovery and collection device
Disclosed herein is a sample recovery and collection device comprising a tube, a cap, an insert, and an opening. The cap includes an O-ring and is removably secured to the tube for sealing the tube. The insert includes a first end having a ring that is adhered to the tube and second end opposite the first end. The insert also includes a first leg, a second leg, and a third leg, each coupled to and extending from the ring to the second end. The opening extends from the ring to the second end and the insert defines a diameter. Also disclosed herein is a kit comprising the sample recovery and collection device. Further disclosed herein is a method of collecting a sample from a subject.
US09138204B2 Method and apparatus for calibrating and re-aligning an ultrasound image plane to a navigation tracker
The present disclosure relates to acquiring image data of a subject with an imaging system that has been calibrated. The imaging system can include an ultrasound imaging system that collects one of more images based on a plane of image acquisition. The plane of image acquisition can be calibrated to a tracking device associated with the ultrasound transducer.
US09138201B2 Tissue insertion type ultrasonic probe
An ultrasonic probe for supporting spine surgery serving as a tissue insertion type ultrasonic probe comprises an insertion unit and an operation unit. On a front end portion of the insertion unit, a tactile member and a transducer unit are provided. The insertion unit comprises a pipe, and a sheath tube provided outside of the pipe. An FPC board serving as a line sheet is provided in the pipe. The FPC board is inserted in a rounded shape similar to a tube along an inner wall surface of the pipe. A large number of signal lines are formed on the FPC board through printing. A ground cable is provided in an inside space of the FPC board. In the operation unit, a rear end portion of the FPC board and a front end portion of another FPC board are connected by thermo compression bonding.
US09138199B2 Method and apparatus for detecting subaudible cardiac vibrations
A monitoring system senses a physiological signal indicative of mechanical vibrations including audible and/or subaudible frequency ranges and presents information related to the physiological signal to a user. The presented information includes subaudible components of the physiological signal. In various embodiments, the information can be presented as a visual signal representing the mechanical vibrations including the subaudible components, an audial signal representing the mechanical vibrations having a spectrum shifted to an audible frequency range, and/or an audial signal representing the mechanical vibrations having a spectrum compressed into an audible frequency range. An example of the physiological signal can include a heart sound signal indicative of heart sounds including cardiac mechanical vibrations in audible and subaudible frequency ranges.
US09138198B2 Electric arc detection for X-ray generators
A method for detecting electric arcs on an X-ray generator, the method comprising recording mechanical vibrations of an environment of the X-ray generator, the X-ray generator, or elements of the X-ray generator, using at least one sensor configured to record vibrations to record vibrations, and processing signals recorded by the at least one sensor to identify peaks corresponding to the formation of the electric arcs.
US09138195B2 Contactless communication signal transfer
Among other things, one or more data-links for transferring information between a stationary unit and a movable (e.g., rotating) unit, or between two movable units without contact between the units is provided. A transmitting antenna of a data-link comprises at least two capacitive conducting portions, a first portion configured to conduct signals having a first frequency range (e.g., a higher frequency range) and a second portion configured to conduct signals having a second frequency range (e.g., a lower frequency range). The second portion is comprised of a plurality of members (e.g., conductive plates) arranged to create a substantially continuous electrically conductive structure (e.g., although respective members may not be in physical contact with adjacent members). In this way, a loss of capacitance in a transition between two adjacent members is reduced to provide for transferring information at lower frequencies where a higher capacitance is desirable, for example.
US09138194B1 Apparatus for use to replicate symptoms associated with vascular obstruction secondary to vascular compression
An apparatus for use with an imaging device for imaging a portion of a patient during exertion by the patient. The apparatus may include a first anchor for opposing a force applied by the patient to the first anchor in response to flexing one or more muscles in the imaged portion of the patient. There may also be provided second anchors that assist in restricting motion of the patient in response to the force applied to the first anchor. A plurality of fiducial markings may be provided that are evident in the obtained image to define a reference in the image for determining a location of a region of interest within the portion of the patient relative to the fiducial markings. The region of interest may correspond to an indication of a condition or disease (e.g., exertional compartment syndrome).