Document Document Title
US09175072B2 Compositions and methods including recombinant B lymphocyte cell line including an exogenously incorporated nucleic acid expressing an exogenous membrane immunoglobulin reactive to a first antigen and including an endogenous gene expressing an endogenous secreted immunoglobulin reactive to a second antigen
Compositions and methods are disclosed herein for producing one or more immunoglobulins in an isolated B lymphocyte cell line. An isolated cell line includes an isolated B lymphocyte cell line capable of expressing at least one exogenously incorporated membrane immunoglobulin reactive to a first antigen and at least one endogenous secreted immunoglobulin reactive to a second antigen.
US09175071B2 Anti-serum albumin binding variants
The invention relates to improved variants of the anti-serum albumin immunoglobulin single variable domain DOM7h-14, as well as ligands and drug conjugates comprising such variants, compositions, nucleic acids, vectors and hosts.
US09175068B2 Method to produce a highly concentrated immunoglobulin preparation for subcutaneous use
The present invention relates to a new and improved method for preparing a highly concentrated immunoglobulin composition from pooled plasma for subcutaneous injection. A composition comprising 20% or more immunoglobulin suitable for subcutaneous use is also described.
US09175065B2 FGFR extracellular domain acidic region muteins
Fibroblast growth factor receptor (FGFR) extracellular domain (ECD) acidic region muteins that have been engineered to exhibit decreased tissue binding by increasing the number of acidic amino acid residues within the D1-D2 linker region are provided. Polynucleotides encoding FGFR ECD acidic region muteins are also provided. Methods of making FGFR ECD acidic region muteins, and methods of using such molecules to treat proliferative disorders, including cancers, disorders of angiogenesis, and macular degeneration, are also provided.
US09175060B2 PEG modified exendin or exendin analog and compositions and use thereof
Exendins or exendin analogs modified by one or more PEG derivatives that may be linked to one or more amino acids of the exendins or exendin analogs are provided. The PEG derivatives may have branched structure set forth in any one of formulas I-IV. Compositions including the PEG derivative modified exendin or exendin analog, methods of making or administering the modified exendin or exendin analog, and various uses thereof are also provided.
US09175055B2 Use of fibromodulin and lumican for increasing muscle mass
The invention relates to the use of fibromodulin and lumican, particularly active fragments thereof, to increase muscle mass, especially in the treatment of muscular dystrophies.
US09175054B2 CTRP6 which can be used as therapeutic and prophylactic agent for autoimmune diseases
Provided are methods of suppressing complement alternative pathway in a mammalian subject in need thereof, comprising administering to said subject a therapeutically effective amount of C1q and tumor necrosis factor related protein 6 (CTRP6) or a functional analog thereof.
US09175051B2 Transcription factors for increasing yield
The invention is directed to transgenic plants transformed with nucleic acids that encode a plant transcription factor that increases the transgenic plant's size and yield and/or delays flowering in the plant, and methods of using and producing the transgenic plants.
US09175045B2 Peptidomimetic macrocycles
Biologically active crosslinked polypeptides with improved properties relative to their corresponding precursor polypeptides, having good cell penetration properties and reduced binding to human proteins; and methods of identifying and making such improved polypeptides.
US09175044B2 Derivatives of glyco-CF2-serine and glyco-CF2-threonine
The present invention relates to compounds of formula (I): or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, a tautomer, a stereoisomer or a mixture of stereoisomers in any proportion, in particular a mixture of enantiomers, and particularly a racemate mixture, as well as to their process of preparation, their use in the peptide synthesis, said peptide and the use of said peptide.
US09175035B2 Oligopeptide sequence specifically bonding to phenylboronic acid group
An object of the present invention is to provide, as a method for immobilizing a protein molecule, protein immobilization method and means in which orientation of a molecule to be immobilized can be controlled, the molecule can be stably immobilized without a complicated process and a chemical group used for immobilization does not affect the activity and the function of the protein. Specifically, the present invention relates to a method for immobilizing a molecule including the steps of forming a labeled molecule by attaching a label peptide sequence comprising a hydroxyl group-containing amino acid to a molecule; and bringing a molecule having a phenylboronic acid group into contact with the labeled molecule, to capture the labeled molecule by the molecule having a phenylboronic acid group.
US09175033B2 Methods for preparing complex multivalent immunogenic conjugates
Methods for preparing complex multivalent immunogenic conjugates that include simultaneously reacting a plurality or immunogenic-distinct polysaccharides with at least one protein to make the complex multivalent immunogenic conjugates. The simultaneous reaction involves reaction of a hydrazide group on one reactant with an aldehyde or cyanate ester group on the other reactant.
US09175029B2 Aminoglycosides and uses thereof in treating genetic disorders
A new class of pseudo-trisaccharide aminoglycosides having an alkyl group at the 5″ position, exhibiting efficient stop codon mutation readthrough activity, low cytotoxicity and high selectivity towards eukaryotic translation systems are provided. Also provided are pharmaceutical compositions containing the same, and uses thereof in the treatment of genetic disorders, as well as processes of preparing these aminoglycosides. The disclosed aminoglycosides can be represented by the general formula I: or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, wherein R1 is selected from the group consisting of alkyl, cycloalkyl and aryl; and all other variables and features are as described in the specification.
US09175028B2 Glycoside compound
Compounds of formula (I″) wherein: R11, R12, R13, R14 and R15 are hydrogen, hydroxyl, C1-6 alkyl, C1-6 alkoxy, C1-6 alkyl-carbonyloxy, or a G-O— group, and at least one of R11, R12, R13, R14 and R15 is a G-O— group, wherein G is a saccharide residue, X1 is a single bond, or a methylene group, an ethylene group, a trimethylene group, a vinylene group or —CH═CH—CH2—, X2 is —CO—O— or —O—CO—, p and q are integer ofs 0 to 7, and p+q=0 to 8, Y1 is methylene, ethylene or an alkenylene group having a carbon number of 2 to 15 and 1 to 3 double bonds, and R16 and R17 are hydrogen, methyl or ethyl, or R16 and R17 form a C3-6 cycloalkyl group, are useful as GLP-1 secretion promoting agents.
US09175025B2 Method for preparing porous organic-inorganic hybrid materials
The present invention relates to a method for preparing a porous organic-inorganic hybrid, which comprises gelling a reaction mixture containing a metal precursor, a water-soluble additive and water or water-containing organic solvent at a gelling temperature of 30° C.˜100° C. to obtain an organogel-containing solution having a viscosity of 2 to 50,000 (cps), subsequently ageing the solution at said gelling temperature under stirring; and subsequently heating the organogel-containing solution at a temperature between said gelling temperature and 250° C. to crystallize the solution.According to the method for preparation of the present invention, it is possible to commercially practice the present invention since the reaction can be carried out in water or a water-containing organic solvent at an ambient pressure or a slightly raised pressure under a reflux condition, as well as it is possible to mass-produce a porous organic-inorganic hybrid having a high crystallinity and a large surface even in a high mol ratio of 1:1˜1:30 of solvent to metal.
US09175016B2 Prochelators useful for inhibiting metal-associated toxicity
Prochelator compounds of Formula I or Formula II: are described, along with methods of using the same and pharmaceutical formulations or compositions containing the same.
US09175013B2 Fused aminodihydrothiazine derivatives
The present invention relates to a fused aminodihydrothiazine derivative of formula (I): wherein X is hydrogen or fluorine; R is monofluoromethyl or difluoromethyl; and pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof; which compound 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.
US09175009B2 Benzoxepin PI3K inhibitor compounds and methods of use
Benzoxepin compounds of Formula I, and including stereoisomers, geometric isomers, tautomers, solvates, metabolites and pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof, wherein: Z1 is CR1 or N; Z2 is CR2 or N; Z3 is CR3 or N; Z4 is CR4 or N; and where (i) X1 is N and X2 is S, (ii) X1 is S and X2 is N, (iii) X1 is CR7 and X2 is S, (iv) X1 is S and X2 is CR7; (v) X1 is NR8 and X2 is N, (vi) X1 is N and X2 is NR8, (vii) X1 is CR7 and X2 is O, (viii) X1 is O and X2 is CR7, (ix) X1 is CR7 and X2 is C(R7)2, (x) X1 is C(R7)2 and X2 is CR7; (xi) X1 is N and X2 is O, or (xii) X1 is O and X2 is N, are useful for inhibiting lipid kinases including p110 alpha and other isoforms of PI3K, and for treating disorders such as cancer mediated by lipid kinases. Methods of using compounds of Formula I for in vitro, in situ, and in vivo diagnosis, prevention or treatment of such disorders in mammalian cells, or associated pathological conditions, are disclosed.
US09175007B2 IRAK inhibitors and uses thereof
The present invention provides compounds, compositions thereof, and methods of using the same.
US09175002B2 Synthesis and use of dual tyrosyl-DNA phosphodiesterase I (Tdp1)—topoisomerase I (Top1) inhibitors
The invention described herein pertains to the synthesis and use of certain N-substituted indenoisoquinoline compounds which inhibit the activity Tyrosyl-DNA Phosphodiesterase I (Tdp1) or Topoisomerase I (Top1) or both, or otherwise demonstrate anticancer activity. Also disclosed are novel N-substituted indenoisoquinoline compounds and pharmaceutical compositions comprising the novel N-substituted indenoisoquinoline compounds.
US09175000B2 Buprenorphine analogs
The present invention is directed to Buprenorphine Analog compounds of the Formula I, Formula II, Formula III, Formula IV, and Formula V, wherein R1, R2, R3a, R3b, R15a, R15b, X, Q, G, and Y are as defined herein. Compounds of the Invention are useful for treating pain and other conditions modulated by activity of opioid receptors.
US09174998B2 (6S,9aS)-N-benzyl-6-[(4-hydroxyphenyl)methyl]-4,7-dioxo-8-({6-[3-(piperazin-1-yl)azetidin-1-yl]pyridin-2-yl}methyl)-2-(prop-2-en-1-yl)-octahydro-1H-pyrazino[2,1-c][1,2,4]triazine-1-carboxamide compound
A compound represented by formula (1) or pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof: wherein R1 is a C1-6 alkyl group; R2 and R3 are the same or different from each other and each is a hydrogen atom or a C1-6 alkyl group; X2, X3 and X4 are the same or different from each other and each is a hydrogen atom or a halogen atom; and X5 is a hydrogen atom or —P(═O)(OH)2 has a Wnt Pathway modulating activity.
US09174994B2 Enhanced treatment regimens using mTor inhibitors
The present invention provides for methods and pharmaceutical compositions comprising inhibitors of mTorC1 and/or mTorC2. In some aspects, the invention provides for treatment regimens resulting in enhanced treatment efficacy and better tolerability.
US09174989B2 Process for making CGRP receptor antagonists
The disclosure encompasses a novel process for making piperidinone carboxamide indane and azainane derivatives, having less steps and improved yields as compared to previous synthetic methods for making these compounds, which are CGRP receptor antagonists, useful for the treatment of migraine. Conditions for an amide bond formation between an acid and amine include for example reacting the compounds of Formulae B (after salt break) and C with an amide coupling reagent and optionally an additive and an acid and/or a base in a non-reactive solvent.
US09174987B2 Spiroindolinepiperidine derivatives
Insecticidal, acaricidal, nematicidal or molluscicidal compounds of formula (I) wherein Y is a single bond, C═O, C═S or S(O)q where q is 0, 1 or 2; and R1, R2, R3, R4, R8, R9 are R10 are as defined in the claims or salts or N-oxides thereof, processes for preparing them and compositions containing them.
US09174984B2 Chemical compounds
The invention is directed to substituted heteroaryl derivatives. Specifically, the invention is directed to compounds according to Formula Q: wherein D, L, M, W, X, Y, and Z are defined herein. The compounds of the invention are inhibitors of DNA methyltransferase (DNMT) activity—including DNMT1, DNMT3a, or DNMT3b—and are useful in the treatment of cancer and hyperproliferative diseases. Accordingly, the invention is further directed to pharmaceutical compositions comprising a compound of the invention. The invention is still further directed to methods of inhibiting DNMT activity and treatment of disorders associated therewith using a compound of the invention or a pharmaceutical composition comprising a compound of the invention.
US09174983B2 Pyrroloquinoline quinone disodium salt crystal and method for producing the same
An object of the present invention is to provide a novel pyrroloquinoline quinone disodium crystal having excellent dispersibility in solvents and excellent permeability through skin, and a method for producing the pyrroloquinoline quinone disodium crystal with high efficiency. According to the present invention, provided are a novel pyrroloquinoline quinone disodium crystal which is produced by drying a crystal produced under specified conditions through a drying means such as lyophilization, ambient drying and vacuum drying, and a method for producing the pyrroloquinoline quinone disodium crystal.
US09174979B2 Phenanthroindolizidine compound and NFκB inhibitor containing same as active ingredient
A novel compound having an excellent NFκB inhibitory effect is provided and specifically disclosed is a compound represented by the following formula (1) or a salt thereof:wherein, R1 represents a hydrogen atom, a lower alkyl group, a lower alkyloxy group, or a halogen atom;R2 represents a hydroxyl group, or a lower alkyloxy group;R3 represents a hydrogen atom, a lower alkyl group, or a halogen atom;R4 represents a hydrogen atom or a lower alkyloxy group;R5 represents a hydrogen atom, a lower alkyloxy group, a halogen atom, a hydroxyl group, or a methylenedioxy group formed together with R6 or an isopropylidenedioxy group formed together with R6;R6 represents a hydrogen atom, a lower alkyloxy group, or a methylenedioxy group formed together with R5 or an isopropylidenedioxy group formed together with R5;R7 represents a hydrogen atom or a lower alkyl group; andR8 represents a hydrogen atom, a hydroxyl group, an amino group, or a lower alkylcarbonyloxy group (excluding the case where R1, R3, R4 and R7 are hydrogen atoms, R2 and R8 are hydroxyl groups, and R5 and R6 are methoxy groups).
US09174974B2 Macrocyclic factor VIIa inhibitors
The present invention provides compounds of Formula (I): as defined in the specification and compositions comprising any of such novel compounds. These compounds are Factor VIIa inhibitors which may be used as medicaments.
US09174973B2 Crystalline forms of azilsartan and preparation and uses thereof
The present invention relates to the field of pharmaceutical chemistry. Disclosed herein is a crystalline form of azilsartan, which is substantially pure. The crystalline form is crystalline form A, form B, form C, form D, form E, form F, form G, form H, form I, form J or form K. The substantially pure crystalline forms of azilsartan of the invention generally have good properties such as high solubility, high bioavailability, good stability, long shelf life and good antistatic property. The crystalline forms of azilsartan generally exhibit an excellent performance in reducing clinical systolic blood pressure (SBP) and average 24-hour SBP. Disclosed herein are methods of preparing the substantially pure crystalline forms of azilsartan, pharmaceutical compositions comprising the crystalline forms, and preparation methods and uses thereof.
US09174972B2 Cognition enhancing compounds and compositions, methods of making, and methods of treating
The invention relates generally to muscarinic agonists, which are useful for stimulating muscarine receptors, and treating cognitive disorders. Included among the muscarinic agonists disclosed herein are oxadiazole derivatives, compositions, and preparations thereof. Methods of synthesizing oxadiazole compounds also are provided. This disclosure also relates in part to compositions for enhancing cognitive function in subjects such as humans, the compositions comprising a muscarinic agonist or a pharmaceutically suitable form thereof. This disclosure relates in part to methods of treating animals such as humans by administering such compositions.
US09174970B2 5-fluoro pyrimidine derivatives
This present disclosure is related to the field of 5-fluoro pyrimidines and their derivatives and to the use of these compounds as fungicides.
US09174967B2 Substituted pyrazole-containing compounds and their use as pesticides
The present invention relates to substituted pyrazole-containing compounds of formula (I), and the stereoisomers and salts thereof, wherein the substituents are as defined in the description. The present invention further relates to a method for combating or controlling invertebrate pests, to a method for protecting plant propagation material and/or the plants which grow therefrom, to plant propagation material comprising at least one compound according to the present invention, to a method for treating or protecting an animal from infestation or infection by parasites, to a process for the preparation of a composition for treating infested or infected animals and/or for protecting animals against infestation or infection by parasites, and to a compound according to the invention for use as a medicament.
US09174965B2 Pyrimidinylpiperidinyloxypyridone analogues as GPR119 modulators
Novel compounds of structure Formula I: (I) or an enantiomer, a diastereomer, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, wherein R1, R2 and R3 are defined herein, are provided which are GPR119 G protein-coupled receptor modulators. GPR119 G protein-coupled receptor modulators are useful in treating, preventing, or slowing the progression of diseases requiring GPR119 G protein-coupled receptor modulator therapy. Thus, the disclosure also concerns compositions comprising these novel compounds and methods of treating diseases or conditions related to the activity of the GPR119 G protein-coupled receptor by using any of these novel compounds or a composition comprising any of such novel compounds.
US09174963B2 Triazine compounds as PI3 kinase and MTOR inhibitors
Compounds of formula I wherein: R1 is and R2, R4, and R6-9 are defined herein, and pharmaceutically acceptable salts and esters thereof. These compounds inhibit PI3 kinase and mTOR, and may be used to treat diseases mediated by PI3 kinase and mTOR, such as a variety of cancers. Methods for making and using the compounds of this invention are disclosed. Various compositions containing the compounds of this invention are also disclosed.
US09174960B2 Compounds useful against kinetoplastideae parasites
Dibenzylidene and heterobenzylideneacetone derivatives, related 4-piperidones, related 4-thiopyranones and the corresponding sulfinyl- and sulfonyl-analogues for their use for prophylaxis or treatment of trypanosomiasis and leishmaniasis.
US09174958B2 Process for the preparation of dronedarone
This disclosure relates to a process for the preparation of N-[2-n-butyl-3-{4-[(3-dibutylamino)-propoxy]-benzoyl}-1-benzofuran-5-yl]-methane-sulfonamide of formula I and its pharmaceutically acceptable salts, wherein one of the methylsulfonyl groups of the 2-n-butyl-3-[(di-n-butylamino-3-propoxy)-benzoyl]-5-bis-(methylsulfonamido)-benzofuran of formula II is selectively cleaved and if desired, the resulting compound of formula I is transformed into its salt.
US09174952B2 Substituted 3-thiazoloamino-propionic acid derivatives and their use as pharmaceuticals
The present invention relates to compounds of the formulae Ia and Ib, wherein G, R10, R30, R40, R50 and R60 have the meanings indicated in the claims, which are valuable pharmaceutical active compounds. They are inhibitors of the protease cathepsin A, and are useful for the treatment of diseases such as atherosclerosis, heart failure, renal diseases, liver diseases or inflammatory diseases, for example. The invention furthermore relates to processes for the preparation of the compounds of the formulae Ia and Ib, their use and pharmaceutical compositions comprising them.
US09174949B2 Hedgehog inhibitors
Described herein are compounds, pharmaceutical compositions and methods for the inhibition of Hedgehog signaling. Said compounds, pharmaceutical compositions and methods have utility in the treatment of human and veterinary disease and disorders.
US09174947B2 c-Met modulators and methods of use
The present invention provides compounds for modulating protein kinase enzymatic activity for modulating cellular activities such as proliferation, differentiation, programmed cell death, migration and chemoinvasion. More specifically, the invention provides quinazolines and quinolines which inhibit, regulate and/or modulate kinase receptor, particularly c-Met, KDR, c-Kit, flt-3 and flt-4, signal transduction pathways related to the changes in cellular activities as mentioned above, compositions which contain these compounds, and methods of using them to treat kinase-dependent diseases and conditions. The present invention also provides methods for making compounds as mentioned above, and compositions which contain these compounds.
US09174942B2 IDO inhibitors
Presently provided are compounds according to the formula (I) or (II), and pharmaceutical compositions comprising the compounds, wherein R1, R4, and R5 are defined herein. Such compounds and compositions are useful for modulating an activity of indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase; treating indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase (IDO) mediated immunosuppression; treating a medical conditions that benefit from the inhibition of enzymatic activity of indoleamine-2,3-dioxygenase; enhancing the effectiveness of an anti-cancer treatment comprising administering an anti-cancer agent; treating tumor-specific immunosuppression associated with cancer; and treating immunosuppression associated with an infectious disease.
US09174941B2 Pyrazolyl and pyrimidinyl tricyclic enones as antioxidant inflammation modulators
Disclosed herein are novel antioxidant inflammation modulators, including those of the formula: wherein the variables are 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 the compounds and compositions thereof are also provided.
US09174940B2 TSH receptor antagonizing tetrahydroquinoline compounds
The present invention relates the use of a compound, a pharmaceutical composition, compounds and a kit for treating or preventing disorders in a mammal responsive to TSH receptor mediated pathways, including disorders such as hyperthyroidism, Graves' disease, Graves Ophthalmopathy, Graves' associated pretibial dermopathy, nodular goitre and thyroid cancer comprising administering to said mammal an effective amount of a tetrahydroquinoline compound of Formula (I) or an pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof.
US09174930B2 Preparation of sitagliptin intermediates
The invention relates to the preparation of chiral compounds, in particular to the preparation of chiral compounds which may be used as intermediates for the preparation of anti-diabetic agents, preferably sitagliptin.
US09174926B2 Norbornene-ester-based derivative, method for preparing same, and uses thereof
The present invention relates to norbornene-ester-based derivatives, to a method for preparing same, and to the uses thereof. This compound may be used as a plasticizer which can replace a phthalate-based plasticizer.
US09174921B2 Transvinylation as a first stage of coupling production of vinyl esters and acetic acid or propionic acid reaction products
Process for coproduction of a vinyl ester of the formula R—C(O)O—CH═CH2 by transvinylation reaction of a carboxylic acid of the formula R—C(O)OH with a transvinylating reagent of the formula R1—C(O)O—CH═CH2, characterized in that (a) the transvinylation reaction is conducted continuously at a temperature of 90 to 160° C. and at a pressure of 0.5 to 15 MPa without withdrawal of a reactant in the presence of a transition metal catalyst containing at least one transition metal selected from the group of ruthenium, osmium, rhodium, iridium, palladium and platinum; (b) the resulting reaction mixture is separated into its constituents and the vinyl ester of the formula R—C(O)O—CH═CH2 and the carboxylic acid of the formula R1—C(O)—OH are removed; and (c) the carboxylic acid obtained after step (b) is converted to a derivative of the formula R1—C(O)—X, R1—CH2—OH or R6—C(O)—OH in which X is vinyloxy, O—CH═CH2, halogen, alkoxy of the formula OR2 in which R2 is a substituted or unsubstituted hydrocarbyl radical having 1 to 10 carbon atoms, amino of the formula NR3R4 in which R3 and R4 are each independently hydrogen or a substituted or unsubstituted hydrocarbyl radical having 1 to 10 carbon atoms, or carboxyl of the formula O—C(O)—R5 in which R5 is hydrogen or a substituted or unsubstituted hydrocarbyl radical having 1 to 10 carbon atoms, and R6 is the partly or fully halogen-substituted R1 radical.
US09174916B2 Compounds and uses thereof for treating inflammation and modulating immune responses
The present invention provides compounds, and compositions comprising these compounds, which have immunomodulatory activity and/or anti-inflammatory activity.
US09174915B2 Extraction towers and processes for using the same
The disclosure relates to processes and systems utilizing one or more extraction towers in the recovery and recycle of acid catalysts used in the production of carboxylic acids. The carboxylic acids may be neo-acids produced through the hydrocarboxylation of olefins or olefin mixtures.
US09174913B2 Process for the production of methacrylic acid and its derivatives and polymers produced therefrom
A process for the production of methacrylic acid is described. The process comprises the base catalysed decarboxylation of at least one or a mixture of dicarboxylic acids selected from itaconic, citraconic or mesaconic acid. The decarboxylation is carried out in the range greater than 240 and up to 275° C. to provide high selectivity. The methacrylic acid product may be esterified to produce an ester. A method of preparing polymers or copolymers of methacrylic acid or methacrylic acid esters using the process is also described. Optionally, the process may be preceded with a decarboxylation and, if necessary, a dehydration step on a source of pre-acid such as citric acid or isocitric acid.
US09174911B2 Production of glutaric acid and derivatives from carbohydrate-containing materials
The present invention generally relates to processes for the chemocatalytic conversion of a pentose source to a glutaric acid product. The present invention includes processes for the conversion of pentose to a glutaric acid product via pentaric acid or derivatives thereof. The present invention also includes processes comprising the catalytic oxidation of pentose to pentaric acid and catalytic hydrodeoxygenation of pentaric acid or derivatives thereof to a glutaric acid product.
US09174910B2 Method for producing acrylic acid with a fixed-bed multitubular reactor
This invention provides a method for producing acrylic acid by catalytic gas-phase oxidation, which method makes it possible to carry out a continuous operation steadily for a long period of time while a high yield is maintained.This method is characterized by comprising filling each of reaction tubes of a fixed-bed multitubular reactor with at least two species of catalysts each of which essentially comprises, as catalytically active components, oxide of molybdenum and oxide of vanadium and/or composite oxide of the same, said at least two species of catalysts being different in the ratio of D1/D2, D1 denoting the proportion of the total pore volume of pores whose pore diameter falls within the range of at least 0.03 μm and less than 0.4 μm to the total pore volume of the whole pores, and D2 denoting the proportion of the total pore volume of pores whose pore diameter fails within the range of at least 0.4 μm and at most 5 μm to the total pore volume of the whole pores, in such a manner that at least two reaction zones are formed axially in each of the reaction tubes.
US09174909B2 Two-stage, acid-catalyzed conversion of carbohydrates into levulinic acid
A method of producing levulinic acid from biomass is described. The method includes two acid treatment steps: first, treating biomass with a first aqueous acidic solution at a pH, for a time, and temperature such that at least a portion of pentosans contained within the biomass is extracted from the biomass, to yield pentosan-extracted biomass; second, treating the pentosan-extracted biomass with a second aqueous acidic solution at a pH, for a time, and a temperature, such that at least a portion of hexosans contained within the pentosan-extracted biomass are converted to levulinic acid.
US09174907B2 Hydroformylation process
A process comprising contacting a reaction fluid, which contains at least one phosphorus acidic compound, with a buffer solution to neutralize at least some amount of the phosphorus acidic compound, wherein the buffer solution comprises at least one salt of an unsaturated aliphatic carboxylic acid.
US09174898B2 Methods for hydrothermal digestion of cellulosic biomass solids in the presence of a slurry catalyst and a digestible filter aid
Digesting cellulosic biomass in the presence of a slurry catalyst may reduce degradation product formation, but catalyst distribution and retention can be problematic. Digestion methods can comprise: providing cellulosic biomass solids and a slurry catalyst capable of activating molecular hydrogen in a digestion unit; providing a digestible filter aid in the digestion unit; distributing the slurry catalyst within the cellulosic biomass solids using fluid flow; retaining at least a portion of the slurry catalyst in a fixed location using the digestible filter aid; heating the cellulosic biomass solids in the presence of the slurry catalyst, a digestion solvent, and molecular hydrogen, thereby forming a liquor phase comprising soluble carbohydrates; and performing a catalytic reduction reaction on the soluble carbohydrates within the digestion unit, thereby at least partially forming a reaction product comprising a triol, a diol, a monohydric alcohol, or any combination thereof in the digestion unit.
US09174896B2 Catalytical synthesis of internal fluorobutenes and internal fluoropentenes
A vapor phase process is disclosed for making internal fluorobutenes. The process involves contacting a halobutane starting material selected from the group consisting of CF2HCHClCH2CCl2H, CF2HCHClCH2CCl3, CF3CHClCH2CCl2H, CF3CHClCH2CCl3, CF3CHClCHClCCl2H, CF3CHClCHClCCl3, CF3CCl2CH2CCl2H, CF3CCl2CH2CCl3, CF3CCl2CHClCCl2H, CF3CCl2CHClCCl3, CF3CClFCHClCCl2H, CF3CClFCHClCCl3, CF3CClFCH2CCl2H, CF3CClFCH2CCl3, CF3CClFCHFCCl2H, CF3CClFCHFCCl3, CF3CClHCHFCCl2H and CF3CClHCHFCCl3, with HF in a reaction zone in the presence of a chromium oxyfluoride catalyst to produce a product mixture comprising an internal fluorobutene. Another vapor phase process is disclosed for making internal fluoropentenes. The process involves contacting a halopentane starting material selected from the group consisting of CF2HCHXCH2CX2CX3, CF3CHXCH2CX2CX3, CF3CHXCHXCX2CX3, CF3CX2CH2CX2CX3, CF3CX2CHXCX2CX3 and CF3CHXCHFCX2CX3, with HF in a reaction zone in the presence of a chromium oxyfluoride catalyst to produce a product mixture comprising an internal fluoropentene, wherein each X is independently selected from the group consisting of F, Cl and Br, provided that not all X are fluorines.
US09174893B2 Synthesis of para-xylene and toluene
A method of making para-xylene or toluene is carried out by: (a) reacting a C5 or C6 linear monoene (itself, or formed from a C5 or C6 linear alkane) with a hydrogen acceptor in the presence of a hydrogen transfer catalyst to produce a C5 or C6 diene; (b) reacting the C5-C6 diene with ethylene to produce a cyclohexene having 1 or 2 methyl groups substituted thereon; and then (c) either (i) dehydrogenating the cyclohexene in the presence of a hydrogen acceptor with a hydrogen transfer catalyst to produce a compound selected from the group consisting of para-xylene and toluene, or (ii) dehydrogenating the cyclohexene in the absence of a hydrogen acceptor with a dehydrogenation catalyst, to produce para-xylene or toluene.
US09174891B2 Detergent alkylation process for controlling alkylation exotherm with paraffins
The process of producing an alkylbenzene compound from the alkylation of an aromatic compound with an acyclic monoolefin is an exothermic process. A process for maintaining a relatively constant temperature improves the process and allows for controlling the yields. The process includes recycling a compound through the reactor that is relatively inert, but will moderate the exotherm, while maintaining the 2-phenyl content of the final alkylbenzene product.
US09174890B2 Method for conversion of carbon dioxide into hydrocarbons
The present invention relates to a method for converting carbon dioxide into hydrocarbons by reacting magnesium with carbon dioxide to obtain magnesium oxide and carbon, reacting the carbon with hot water steam to obtain hydrogen (H2) and carbon monoxide, reacting hydrogen and carbon monoxide according to the Fischer-Tropsch method, or reacting the carbon obtained with earth alkaline metal oxide to obtain earth alkaline metal carbide and carbon monoxide, wherein the earth alkaline metal carbide is then reacted with water to obtain acetylene and earth alkaline metal hydroxide.
US09174885B2 Nitrogen fertilizer composition and method to improve detection and lessen the explosive potential of nitrogen-based fertilizers
A nitrogen fertilizer composition includes urea and a nitrate-based fertilizer such as ammonium nitrate, calcium ammonium nitrate and mixtures of ammonium nitrate and calcium ammonium in which the urea and total nitrogen are at concentrations of 20 percent by weight or greater and the concentration of ammonium nitrate is at 30 percent or greater by weight. One or both of the urea and nitrate-based fertilizer are coated with an agriculturally compatible material. The fertilizer composition provides significant nitrate nitrogen for legitimate agricultural use yet is not amenable to the production of an explosive by crushing or by aqueous extraction. A pleasant smelling odorant is added to the composition to facilitate detection.
US09174883B2 Waste recovery, conversion, and utilization
Food waste streams may be managed efficiently with a waste-processing facility, which in some embodiments may be co-locating a food distribution facility. The waste processing facility includes a pulper fluidly connected to an input configured to receive a heterogeneous waste stream including biodegradable and non-biodegradable components, the pulper configured to mechanically de-fiber the biodegradable component and form a de-fibered biodegradable material, and an anaerobic membrane bioreactor fluidly connected downstream of the pulper and configured to produce biogas and anaerobic effluent from the de-fibered biodegradable material.
US09174876B2 Dielectric materials for power transfer system
A contactless power transfer system is proposed. The power transfer system comprises a field-focusing element comprising a dielectric material. The dielectric material comprises a composition that is selected from the family of (Ba,Sr)TiO3 or CaCu3Ti4O12. The compositions of the (Ba, Sr)TiO3 include the materials such as Ca1-x-yBaxSryTi1-zCrzO3-δNp, wherein 0
US09174874B2 Refractory object, glass overflow forming block, and process of forming and using the refractory object
A refractory object can include at least 10 wt % Al2O3. Further, the refractory object may contain less than approximately 6 wt % SiO2 or may include a dopant that includes an oxide of Ti, Mg, Ta, Nb, or any combination thereof. In an embodiment, at least approximately 1% of the Al2O3 in the refractory object can be provided as reactive Al2O3. In another embodiment, the refractory object may have a density of at least approximately 3.55 g/cc, a corrosion rate of no greater than approximately 2.69 mm/year, or any combination of the foregoing. In a particular embodiment, the refractory object can be used to form an Al—Si—Mg glass sheet. In an embodiment, the refractory object may be formed by a process using a compound of Ti, Mg, Ta, Nb, or any combination thereof.
US09174871B2 Cement slurries having pyranose polymers
A composition includes a cement component and an amidyl pyranose component. A method of making the composition includes mixing a cement component with an amidyl pyranose component.
US09174866B2 Method for continuous printing of precision structures on a glass ribbon, and glass ribbon thus obtained
A method for printing a precision structure on the surface of a glass strip advancing continuously at a rate of at least 1 m/min, using an etching roller (27) applying a printing force against the surface to be etched, the structure to be produced including protruding and recessed regions which have radii of curvature, a preliminary thermal conditioning (26 and 32) being performed upstream of the etching roller; the thermal conditioning is designed to ensure a temperature of the strip (J) over the print thickness and a cooling (29) downstream of the etching roller (27) to ensure a controlled fixing of the structure; the method according to the invention making it possible to determine the parameters that are intimately linked for obtaining a particular structure, notably the print temperature, the printing force and the cooling rate, taking into account a degree of creep between the molding radius (R1) and the post-creep radius (R2).
US09174865B2 Leachate treating system having settling spheres and method for same
A flash flocculation tank system having a plurality of tanks and a plurality of settling spheres that are magnetic and treat wastewater and/or landfill leachate and a process for decreasing the amount of time for settling solids in biologically and/or chemically treated wastewater and/or landfill leachate. The plurality of settling spheres each have a rare earth magnet and are calibrated by weight to float, sink, and to be suspending in the treated water or leachate. Insoluble waste solids gain a ferromagnetic quality after attaching to the settling spheres. The flash flocculation tank system with the settling spheres and process improve the settleability rate of the insoluble solids of the treated leachate and also allow for a smaller settling tank.
US09174861B2 Process and apparatus for treating water with hydrated lime slurry and for dissolving scale
A method and apparatus is provided for treating water with already-slaked lime to arrive at a lime slurry that is in a solution or suspension, and delivering the thus treated water to a separating device which separates grit particles therefrom, to recover a high quality lime/water solution or suspension. An automated system controls the addition of lime and water to a lime mixing vessel.An acid wash system is provided which comprises an automated method and apparatus for removing scale buildup, for delivering an acid wash solution to the lime mixing vessel, the lime slurry holding tank and/or the delivery system, or any of them, thereby dissolving the scale buildup.
US09174859B2 Method for treating waste waters
A chemical-free and no-microbe method for pre-treating a broad range of waste waters is presented. The said method involves electrocoagulation (EC) operated in synchronization with electrolytic ozone (EO3). In the combinatory method, each technique not only applies its own treatments, they also create synergistic effects from real-time reactions among the reagents generated by electrolysis. Two refractory waste waters, seawater and tannery effluent, are tested by the combinatory method, EC+EO3, to assess the viability of the said method. Without adjustment, each of the said waste waters is remedied by EC+EO3 from its raw state to a clean condition more effectively and more economically than that can be delivered by the respective prevailing processes of pretreatment for each of the said waste waters.
US09174858B2 Fluid treatment system
In one of its aspects, the present invention relates to a fluid treatment system comprising: an inlet; an outlet; a fluid treatment zone disposed between the inlet and the outlet. The fluid treatment zone: (i) comprises a first wall surface and a second wall surface opposed to the first wall surface, and (ii) having disposed therein at least one array of rows of radiation source assemblies. Each radiation source assembly has a longitudinal axis transverse to a direction of fluid flow through the fluid treatment zone and each of the first wall surface and the second wall surface comprises a first fluid deflector element and a second fluid deflector element. The first fluid deflector element projecting into the fluid treatment zone to a greater extent than the second fluid deflector element.
US09174856B2 Floatation separation apparatus, method of floatation separation, and method of manufacturing products using the same
By storing a liquid to be treated in a treatment tank main body 10 having a bottom portion 10g that narrows downward, with particles of materials to be treated dispersed therein, taking out the liquid to be treated from a position lower than the liquid level of the treatment tank main body 10, and returning the liquid to the bottom portion 10g of the treatment tank main body 10, thereby circulating the liquid to be treated while forming a vortex flow within the treatment tank main body 10, and at the same time supplying air bubbles from the lower part of the treatment main unit 10, a first component contained in froths is separated from a second component, which is less susceptible to floatation, contained in the liquid to be treated.
US09174854B2 Bronze-type titanium oxide compound containing potassium, method of manufacturing the same, and lithium-ion secondary battery using the same
In a titanium oxide compound according to the present invention, the titanium oxide compound is obtained by eluating potassium of potassium tetratitanate expressed by a general formula K2Ti4O9 and performing thermal processing, and, in an X-ray diffraction spectrum of the potassium tetratitanate obtained by using a Cu—Kα ray source, between a peak intensity Ia of a (200) plane, a peak intensity Ic of a (004) plane and a peak intensity Ib of a (31-3) plane, a relationship of Ia>Ib>Ic is satisfied.
US09174853B2 Method for producing high purity germane by a continuous or semi-continuous process
A continuous or semi-continuous process for producing a high purity germane includes (a) preparing a reaction mixture containing hydrogen and crude germane and (b) separating the hydrogen from the crude germane by a pressure swing adsorption process. The pressure swing adsorption process results in a hydrogen-rich product stream and a germane-rich product stream. The method further includes (c) purifying the germane-rich product stream by continuous distillation thereof to remove impurities therefrom and to produce a high purity germane containing less than 0.1 volume percent of impurities.
US09174852B2 Methods to improve filtration for the Bayer process
The invention provides methods and compositions for improving the production of alumina trihydrate. The invention involves adding one or more cross-linked polysaccharides to a filter used to separate solids from liquid in the Bayer process. The one or more polysaccharides can be a cross-linked polysaccharide (such as cross-linked dextran or cross-linked dihydroxypropyl cellulose). The cross-linked polysaccharides can impart a number of advantages including greater flow rate and lower residual moisture in the resulting cake.
US09174849B2 Molecular sieve precursors and synthesis of molecular sieves
Molecular sieves, improved methods for their synthesis, and catalysts, systems and methods of using these molecular sieves as catalysts in a variety of processes such as abating pollutants in exhaust gases and conversion processes are described. The molecular sieves are made using a tailored colloid including an alumina source, a silica source and a structure directing agent.
US09174841B2 Solid oxide fuel cell anode with high stability and high efficiency and method for manufacturing the same
A nanostructured anode of solid oxide fuel cell with high stability and high efficiency and a method for manufacturing the same are revealed. This anode comprising a porous permeable metal substrate, a diffusion barrier layer and a nano-composite film is formed by atmospheric plasma spray. The nano-composite film includes a plurality of metal nanoparticles, a plurality of metal oxide nanoparticles, and a plurality of gas pores that are connected to form nano gas channels. The metal nanoparticles are connected to form a 3-dimensional network that conducts electrons, while the metal oxide nanoparticles are connected to form a 3-dimensional network that conducts oxygen ions. The network formed by metal oxide nanoparticles has certain strength to separate metal nanoparticles and prevent aggregation or agglomeration of the metal nanoparticles. Thus this anode can be applied to a solid oxide fuel cell operating in the intermediate temperatures (600˜800° C.) with high stability and high efficiency.
US09174834B2 Apparatus and method for dispensing user-specified fixed volumes of liquids
Fixed-volumes of liquid are measured and dispensed from a container by empirically determining the liquid surface height and opening a dispensing valve for a time period that is calculated using a volume of liquid specified to be dispensed and the empirically-determined liquid surface height. The liquid surface height in the container is determined empirically for initial and subsequent volumes of liquid that are dispensed. Dispensing accuracy is maintained whether the container is full or nearly empty.
US09174831B2 Lifting platform and carrying element for lifting platform with weight measurement
An apparatus for lifting motor vehicles, with a carrying element for carrying the motor vehicle to be lifted, wherein this carrying element has at least one sensor device for detecting a weight force of the vehicle to be lifted, wherein the carrying element has at least two carrying arms which are arranged in a central region of the carrying element and which starting from the central region extend in at least two different directions. At least one sensor element for detecting a partial weight force is provided in each case on these carrying arms, wherein a force determining device for determining the weight force takes into consideration the partial weight forces determined by the at least three sensor elements.
US09174830B1 Industrial vehicles with point fix based localization
According to the embodiments described herein, an industrial vehicle can include a camera and one or more processors. The camera can capture an input image of ceiling lights of the ceiling of the warehouse. The one or more processors can execute machine readable instructions to detect transversal edges from the ceiling lights of the input image. The machine readable instructions executed by the one or more processors can determine points of convergence between the transversal edges and a first edge line and a second edge line. The machine readable instructions executed by the one or more processors can select a set of point fixes from the points of convergence. The machine readable instructions executed by the one or more processors can navigate the industrial vehicle through the warehouse utilizing the centerline and the set of point fixes.
US09174828B2 Lift assembly and system
A portable, lightweight lift system employing one or more lift assemblies that counters effects of staging is disclosed. The lift system includes multiple lift assemblies, wherein each assembly may be connected to a lifting device such as a hydraulic or motorized jack. A lifting device comprises moving parts which are nested such that the difference in diameters of each of the moving parts is minimized. In one aspect, the lifting device is provided with an arrangement of seals such that, the working area of a smaller diameter tube is greater than the working area of a larger diameter tube causing the smaller tube to move before the larger tube.
US09174822B2 Double-decker lift installation
An elevator has an elevator car supporting frame that can travel in a travel space provided for a journey of the elevator car supporting frame. The elevator installation is also provided with a first elevator car and a second elevator car arranged on the elevator car supporting frame. Furthermore, a hydraulic moving element is arranged in a lower end region of the travel space. In this way, the first elevator car can be moved in relation to the second elevator car, by the moving device, in the lower end region of the travel space.
US09174817B2 Sheet conveying device and image forming apparatus incorporating same
A sheet conveying device, which is incorporated in an image forming apparatus, includes a sheet holding and conveying roller pair having two rollers to convey a sheet while holding the sheet between the two rollers at a nip where the two rollers contact each other, and a gate member disposed movable with rotation of the sheet holding and conveying roller pair to correct skew of the sheet in a sheet conveying direction when a leading end of the sheet in the sheet conveying direction abuts against the gate member. The gate member has a contact surface against which the sheet abuts. The contact surface of the gate member is disposed upstream from the nip of the sheet holding and conveying roller pair in the sheet conveying direction. A setting position of the contact surface is adjusted according to thickness of the sheet.
US09174815B2 Continuous printer and paper delivery system
A printing and paper delivery system includes at least two printers disposed adjacent to one another. A first conveyor is coupled to a first printer of the at least two printers such that the first conveyer is configured to receive media output from an output chute of the first printer. A second conveyor is coupled to a second printer of the at least two printers such that the first conveyor is configured to receive media output from an output chute of the second printer. A controller is in signal communication with the first and second conveyors to facilitate the transfer of media from at least one of the at least two printers to a delivery location.
US09174811B2 Vehicle restraints with rotating and translating barriers
Example vehicle restraints with rotating and translating barriers are disclosed herein. An example vehicle restraint disclosed herein a main body installable at a loading dock and a barrier to be coupled to the main body. The barrier rotates about an axis relative to the main body between an upper blocking position to block the RIG and a stored position to release the RIG, where for a given elevation of the main body the barrier being higher in the upper blocking position than in the stored position. The barrier moves radially with respect to the axis.
US09174809B2 Blister package assembly and method and system for manufacturing the same
A system and method for providing adhesive to a pre-formed blister tray having shoulders and recesses between the shoulders, the system having at least one pallet, each pallet of the at least one pallet having with holes to accommodate recesses within the blister tray and support for the shoulders of the blister tray; a pallet loading station for loading the pallet with the pre-formed blister tray; a printer unit for printing adhesive to the shoulders of the blister tray; a drying station for drying the adhesive; and an unloading station for unloading blister trays with adhesive printed on the shoulders thereof. Further a pallet for use in the system.
US09174807B2 Method for cleaning a conveyor for agricultural products and conveyor for agricultural products
A method for cleaning a conveyor for agricultural products, such as eggs, and a conveyor for agricultural products, in which contaminants that adhere firmly to the conveyor are removed by the use of an ultrasonic cleaning bath into which a section of the conveyor is dipped with the aid of a deflecting unit. During the normal revolution of the conveyor chain, cleaning of the conveyor chain is carried out even during running operation of the conveying system by means of ultrasound and suitable cleaning agent. A conveyor chain having a multiplicity of rods that are connected to one another via chain links is transported in individual conveying segments of the conveyor. Lying on the conveyor chain, the agricultural products are transported. Deposits of contaminants onto the conveyor unavoidably occur during operation, such as, in particular, as a result of litter or feathers.
US09174803B2 Compact conveyor system
A conveyor system including a train of carrier plates arranged for movement along a conveyor path which possesses either rightward turns or leftward turns and each carrier plate defines a leading edge and a trailing edge. Each of the leading and trailing edges has an outer portion which is disposed adjacent a side of the carrier plate opposite the direction of turn of the conveyor path and an inner portion. Each carrier plate is pivotally mounted upon an endless drive member at a location along the carrier plate which is disposed between the leading and trailing edges of the plate, and is shaped so that the outer portion of each of its leading and trailing edges is longer than the inner portion of its leading and trailing edges. Gap plates cover any gap between two sequential conveyor plates as the train is moved through non-linear sections of the conveyor path.
US09174802B2 Bulk materials transfer chute lining
A wear and shock resistant multi-strata panel for lining a conveyor chute bearing aggregate, coal, and other bulk materials. The panel comprises a plurality of generally planar layers, and a plurality of panels may be used to line a chute. The layers are comprised of and sequentially arranged in a topmost ceramic layer, a corrosion-resistant first metallic layer, an elastomeric cushioning layer, and a bottom-most corrosion-resistant second metallic layer proximal to and in intimate contact with the chute support structure, or chute surface. The layers are consecutively bonded together to form a panel attached integrally to the chute structure.
US09174798B2 Locking subgrade vault
A subgrade vault system and method of forming the same is provided. Specifically, a subgrade vault suitable for housing utility and similar equipment is provided, the vault comprising a main body portion, a cap, and a lid that may be selectively secured to prevent or deter unauthorized access to vault contents.
US09174797B2 Fabric closure with an access opening for cargo containers
A fabric closure, and enclosure, are provided for cargo containers, including a fabric panel formed of high-strength yarns, and a selectively closeable opening formed in the fabric panel for access therethrough, the selectively closeable opening having a substantially vertical opening, and a slide fastener for closure thereof.
US09174796B2 Fabric closure with an access opening for cargo containers
A fabric closure, and enclosure, are provided for cargo containers, including a fabric panel formed of high-strength yarns, and a pair of selectively closeable openings formed in the fabric panel for access therethrough, the selectively closeable openings having a substantially vertical opening, and a slide fastener for closure thereof.
US09174794B2 Spherical container allowing rapid extraction
A spherical container comprising an upper shell, a lower shell, a filter net and a connector. The connector, the upper shell and the lower shell form an airtight spherical cavity. The filter net is fixed within cavities of the connector. The upper surfaces and the lower surfaces of the connector are inwardly recessed to form upper locking slots and lower locking slots. The upper shell and the lower shell are formed respectively with upper locking portions and lower locking portions. Outer walls of the upper locking portions and of the lower locking portions are inwardly recessed to form upper grooves and lower grooves respectively. The connector is formed with upper hooks and lower hooks. Inner wall of the connector extends upwardly and downwardly to form buffer plates tightly fitted with inner walls of the upper shell and of the lower shell.
US09174790B2 Storage cassette for laboratory objects
A storage system (1) has a chamber (3). In the chamber (3), multiple storage tanks (5) are arranged, and a picking and placing device (8) is arranged above these tanks. Carrousels (8) are arranged in the storage tanks. These carrousels are suspended from a top pivot bearing (35) and laterally guided by a bottom pivot bearing (44). The top pivot bearing (35) is located outside the insulation (12) of the storage tanks and is thus protected from extreme temperatures. In the carrousel (18), storage cassettes (20) are arranged which are laterally held by guide elements (31).
US09174785B2 Product dispensing system with panel guide
A product dispensing system including a container defining an internal volume and an opening into the internal volume, the container including a weakened severance line extending from the opening to define an access panel, and a dispenser including a frame and a catch element, the frame having a support deck and defining a recess sized to receive the access panel, the catch element being positioned to engage the opening in the container, separate the access panel from the container along the weakened severance line, and guide the separated access panel into the recess when the container is moved along the support deck.
US09174780B2 Single piece container for securing an insert card
Disclosed is a single-piece container adapted to receive and secure an insert card. The container is a generally rectangular, relatively flat structure having an interior chamber defined by a top surface, a bottom surface, one open end, and one closed end. The container is formed from a blow molding process and adapted to receive an insert card. The container further comprises locking elements that work in cooperation with the insert card to secure the insert card within the interior chamber such that it can not be removed without manipulation of the locking elements. The material comprising the container can be a clear plastic such that optical scan codes present on an insert card contained within the container can be read through the container.
US09174778B2 Packaging for a consumer product
A consumer product comprises a container for packaging a composition having a scent. A removable cap is fitted to the container, with the cap and the container defining a cavity therebetween. The cap has an orifice, for communicating between the cavity and an exterior of the cap, and a manually deformable part which is adapted to be displaceable thereby to displace air from an internal location within the cavity outwardly through the orifice.
US09174772B2 Device for a biological liquid treatment installation
The invention concerns a device comprising a base; a circuit comprising a bag comprising two flexible films and conveying network connectors, and a press (9) comprising a first shell (16) disposed upright on a front face (5) of said base (2) and a second shell (17) mounted on said first shell (16), said first shell (16) and second shell (17) clamping said bag to form conduits; said bag comprising first through apertures on one side and said first shell (16) comprising hooking studs (106) on an upper part, which studs (106) pass through said first apertures.
US09174769B1 Ventilated laundry basket
A one-piece molded basket with a bottom defining an outer periphery and an inner section that defines a number of openings and is interior to, and at least substantially surrounded by, the outer periphery. The outer periphery is constructed and arranged to rest on a relatively flat surface and some or all of the inner section is located above the bottom of the outer periphery such that the inner section is above the flat surface when the outer periphery is on the flat surface. There are one or more indented vent channels that extend through the outer periphery and lead to the inner section, to allow air to pass through the outer periphery, a top rim, and a sidewall contiguous with and extending between the bottom and the top rim.
US09174766B2 Adaptor pallet and method of transporting a plurality of dollies by means of an adaptor pallet
An adaptor pallet and a method for transporting a plurality of dollies without compromising occupational safety. The novel adaptor pallet includes a base and two lifting structures. The base is shaped to receive adjacent wheels of at least two parallel dollies. The lifting structures are arranged extend from both sides of the base so as to receive a lifting device for directly supporting the weight of the dolly from beneath upon lifting motion of the adaptor pallet by means of a lifting device.
US09174762B2 Pop-up structure used for presenting information
The present invention relates to a popup-structure intended to accommodate a card, preferably a gift card (K) of bank card format, and comprising a first cover (1) and a second cover (3) which are joined together by a first fold line (A). Distinguishing features of the popup-structure according to the present invention are that it comprises a second panel element (11) which has an extent between a second fold line (B) and a third fold line (C), that the second fold line (B) is connected to the first cover (1), that the third fold line (C) is movable freely relative to the second cover (3), that the second fold line (B) and the third fold line (C) are parallel with one another, that a third panel element (30) extends between the third fold line (C) and a fifth fold line (E) which is connected to the second cover (3), that the third panel element (30) connects via a fourth fold line (D) to a tongue (20) which forms part of the popup-structure, that the tongue (20) is intended to support the card (K), that the fourth fold line (D) extends between an inner end of the third fold line (C) and an inner end of the fifth fold line (E), and that the fifth fold line (E) has a length (L2) which is greater than the length (L1) of the third fold line (C).
US09174761B1 Pre-fabricated templates to construct variable-dimensioned containers
A prefabricated sheet of foldable material to construct a container having one of multiple selectable dimensions, including a perforated pattern to permit separation and discarding of selectable portions and folding of a remaining portion into the container. The perforated pattern may include diagonal lines to provide triangular-shaped portions to overlap and secure to side-walls of the container.
US09174758B1 Continuous flow processing of packaged items at order fulfillment centers
Methods and apparatus for material handling in an order fulfillment center. An order fulfillment system may include a pre-shipment package preparation module that receives packaged units, and performs various post-packaging operations to facilitate shipment. Some embodiments may include an alignment section configured to orient received packaged units, a package verification section configured to verify one or more physical parameters of the packaged units, a labeling section configured to automatically apply shipping labels to each packaged unit while the packaged units travel at a constant velocity from the packaging verification section and through the labeling section, thereby applying labeling without need to stop or slow travel of the packaged units through the system. Some embodiments include a routing section that is configured to route each packaged unit to a corresponding shipping path that is selected based on information (e.g., packaged height, customer order information) associated with the given packaged unit.
US09174757B2 Method for labeling containers in a beverage bottling plant and a labeling station for a labeling machine in a beverage bottle labeling plant
A method for labeling containers in a beverage bottling plant and a labeling station for a labeling machine in a beverage bottle labeling plant. The abstract of the disclosure is submitted herewith as required by 37 C.F.R. §1.72(b). As stated in 37 C.F.R. §1.72(b): A brief abstract of the technical disclosure in the specification must commence on a separate sheet, preferably following the claims, under the heading “Abstract of the Disclosure.” The purpose of the abstract is to enable the Patent and Trademark Office and the public generally to determine quickly from a cursory inspection the nature and gist of the technical disclosure. The abstract shall not be used for interpreting the scope of the claims. Therefore, any statements made relating to the abstract are not intended to limit the claims in any manner and should not be interpreted as limiting the claims in any manner.
US09174752B2 Strapping device with a gear system device
A mobile strapping device for strapping packaged goods with wrap-around strap including a tensioner for applying a strap tension to a loop of a wrapping strap, and a friction welder for producing a friction weld connection by way of a friction welding element at two areas of the loop of the wrapping strap disposed one on top of the other, and a chargeable energy storage means for storing electrical energy that can be released as drive energy for motorized drive motions at least for the friction welder for producing a friction weld connection. For a strapping device with high functional reliability and ease of handling, despite the possibility of automated production of wrapped straps, at least to a large extent, the strapping device to includes a planetary gear system for transferring and changing the rotational speed of a drive motion provided by an electrical drive of the friction welder.
US09174751B2 Sealing die assembly for form fill packaging machine
A sealing die assembly for a form fill packaging machine is disclosed. The sealing die assembly may have a forming station, a loading station, a sealing station, and a cutting station. The sealing station may contain a sealing die box and a sealing die head that come together to secure pieces of packing material around a product. To minimize the amount of scrap that the sealing die assembly produces, the die box may have one or more protrusions that extend in a longitudinal direction and provide surface area. The one or more protrusions may be configured so as not to interfere with the longitudinal spacing of one or more cavities that may be formed in the packing material.
US09174750B2 Variable surface landing platform (VARSLAP)
In one embodiment, a variable surface landing platform (VARSLAP) includes a base for contacting a landing surface; at least 3 adjustable struts interconnected with the base, wherein each strut is bisected by a strut actuator-housing, and wherein the at least 3 adjustable struts are interconnected to a main body aerospace craft (MAC); a sensor array on the base; and an attitude determination and control system (ADCS).
US09174749B2 Reusable module for launcher
A propulsion module configured to launch a craft into space including a recoverable module and a non-recovered part, which is secured to the recoverable module at launch. The recoverable module includes a propulsive system to launch the craft, systems for command and control of the propulsive system, a subsonic flight propulsion motor, airfoils for the subsonic flight, a landing gear, and a braking parachute. The recoverable module is installed in a lower position of the craft when the craft is in the launch position. The non-recovered part includes at least one tank to feed the propulsive system. The recoverable module and the non-recovered part are configured to be separated when the propulsion module reaches a given altitude, and the recoverable module is capable of landing in a controlled fashion after a coasting flight, for example for a return to the launch site.
US09174741B2 Hybrid powertrain system
A hybrid powertrain for an aircraft may include a drive shaft, the drive shaft, an internal combustion engine to selectably drive the drive shaft, a propeller coupled to the drive shaft and an electric motor having a stator and a rotor and operable to selectably drive the drive shaft. The drive shaft may extend through the electric motor. The rotor may be coupled to the drive shaft to rotate with the drive shaft and the rotor is a flywheel for the internal combustion engine.
US09174738B1 Drag disk, small
A payload drag structure having a drag disk comprised of a lightweight, flexible material, a tubular section positioned around a periphery of the drag disk, a flexible member positioned within the tubular section, a cross member having a plurality of aims attached about the periphery of the drag disk, wherein one or more arms of the cross member are adapted for attachment to a payload harness, wherein the payload harness is adapted for attachment to arms of the cross member, and wherein a payload may be secured within the payload harness.
US09174734B2 Pivot bin assembly
A pivot bin assembly configured to receive luggage and be positioned in the interior of an aircraft. The pivot bin assembly includes an upper housing that includes a strongback and first and second side panels, a bucket that cooperates with the upper housing to define a bin interior, a first pivot mechanism operatively associated with the first side panel and the bucket, and a second pivot mechanism operatively associated with the second side panel and the bucket. The first and second pivot mechanisms are axially aligned along a pivot axis such that the bucket pivots about the pivot axis with respect to the upper housing between an open position and a closed position.
US09174733B1 Payload-release device and operation thereof
An unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) is disclosed that includes a retractable payload delivery system. The payload delivery system can lower a payload to the ground using a delivery device that secures the payload during descent and releases the payload upon reaching the ground. The delivery device can include a channel in which a payload mount attachment for a payload can be inserted. The payload mount attachment can include an aperture for receiving a retaining rod to secure the attachment, and thus the payload, to the delivery device. The retaining rod can assume either an engaged position, in which a portion of the retaining rod engages the payload mount attachment while the payload mount attachment is inserted in the channel, or a disengaged position, in which the retaining rod does not engage the payload mount attachment.
US09174732B2 Methods and systems for transitioning an aerial vehicle between crosswind flight and hover flight
A method involves operating an aerial vehicle to travel along a first closed path on a tether sphere while oriented in a crosswind-flight orientation. A tether is connected to the aerial vehicle on a first end and is connected to a ground station on a second end. Further, the tether sphere has a radius corresponding to a length of the tether. The method further involves while the aerial vehicle is in the crosswind-flight orientation, operating the aerial vehicle to travel along a second closed path on the tether sphere, such that a speed of the aerial vehicle is reduced. And the method involves after or while the speed of the aerial vehicle is reduced, transitioning the aerial vehicle from traveling along the second closed path while in the crosswind-flight orientation to a hover-flight orientation.
US09174730B2 Automated rotating tail rotor control
Embodiments are directed to causing, by a computing device comprising a processor, a rotating tail rotor to operate in a tail rotor mode when an aircraft is operating at a speed less than a rudder control power threshold, receiving, by the computing device, a command that indicates a request to transition the aircraft, determining, by the computing device, that a rudder of the aircraft has control power in an amount greater than a second threshold based on receiving the command, and causing, by the computing device, the rotating tail rotor to operate in a pusher propeller mode based on determining that the rudder has control power in the amount greater than the second threshold.
US09174721B2 Aircraft windshield assembly
An aircraft windshield assembly includes at least one window pane, a frame against which the pane bears, at least one flange for clamping the pane against the frame, and at least one cavity delimited between the pane, the frame and the flange. A member of profiled cross-section substantially fills the cavity and over at least part of its periphery has formations in relief in the form of flutes which with a facing surface define seal-forming baffles.
US09174720B1 Actuated umbrella valves to deflate bladder in balloon envelope
A balloon envelope with a plate secured thereto having an outlet port that provides a passageway from an inside of a balloon envelope to the atmosphere, a bracket extending from the plate, a first linear actuator having a first end attached to the bracket, where a passive valve having a periphery is positioned over the outlet port, where the second end of the linear actuator is attached to the passive valve which is movable from a first, closed position where a seal is provided by the engagement of the periphery of the passive valve and a periphery of the outlet port to a second, open position where the periphery of the passive valve is disengaged from the periphery of the outlet port by movement of the second end of the linear actuator to open the passageway between the inside of the balloon envelope and the atmosphere.
US09174715B1 Apparatuses for changing gear in marine propulsion systems
An apparatus is for a changing gear in a marine propulsion system. A cam rotates about a first axis with a shift shaft. The cam has a body and an arm that radially extends from the body with respect to the first axis. A cam follower moves parallel to a second axis that is perpendicular to the first axis to cause movement of a clutch, thereby enacting a gear change. The cam follower defines a pocket that is elongated with respect to the second axis and a recess that extends from the pocket along a third axis that is perpendicular to the first and second axes. The cam is disposed in the pocket and the arm extends into the recess. During a constant rotation of the shift shaft in a first direction about the first axis, the cam follower moves with respect to the second axis to enact the gear change and also dwells with respect to the second axis.
US09174712B2 Line deploying apparatus
An apparatus for deploying a line includes a disc having a generally V-shaped circumferential channel for retaining the line prior to deployment. The V-shaped channel guides a first wound turn of the line toward the central plane of the disc, and provides an enlarged space into which the turns of the line are unwound during deployment. The enlarged space prevents tangling of the line when the turns are unwound from the disc during deployment.
US09174706B2 Dock anchor
An anchor for a floating body including a generally cylindrical outer surface, a hollow interior portion having a closed bottom surface, a top surface having an opening into the hollow interior portion, and a tubular portion extending through the cylindrical outer surface and forming; the tubular portion forming an enclosed space within the hollow interior portion; whereby in use the interior portion is receives pourable concrete through the opening in the top surface and the tubular portion receives a chain or a rope for attaching the anchor to the floating body.
US09174702B1 Snowmobile exhaust system
A snowmobile has a frame including a tunnel, a least one ski operatively connected to the frame, a seat disposed above the tunnel, a fuel tank disposed on the frame, and an engine connected to the frame forwardly of the fuel tank. The engine has at least one cylinder, at least one intake port, at least one exhaust port, and a laterally extending output shaft defining an output shaft axis. An endless track is disposed at least in part under the tunnel and is operatively connected to the engine. An air intake system is fluidly connected to the at least one intake port. An exhaust system is fluidly connected to the at least one exhaust port. The exhaust system includes a muffler disposed between the output shaft axis and the fuel tank in a longitudinal direction of the snowmobile.
US09174699B2 Bicycle tow device
A bicycle tow device that attaches to a bicycle to allow the bicycle to tow one or more other bicycles or carry one or more bicycle tires. In some versions the tow device can be installed on the towing bicycle without tools and a towed bicycle can be attached to the tow device without tools. One version of the tow device includes an adjustable support to adjust the tow device so that bicycles of varying frame and tire sizes may be towed. The tow device may also include a skirt within a guide to gently secure the towed bicycle to the tow device.
US09174698B2 Vehicle height adjusting device and vehicle height adjusting method
A vehicle height adjusting device includes a front fork and a rear suspension capable of changing the relative position between a vehicle body and wheels of a vehicle, and a control device that adjusts a vehicle height, which is a height of the vehicle body, by controlling the front fork and the rear suspension to change the relative position. The control device changes a vehicle height change rate, which is a rate of changing the vehicle height to a target vehicle height during stoppage, on the basis of deceleration of the vehicle.
US09174694B2 Exhaust gas sensor arrangement structure for motorcycle
An exhaust gas sensor arrangement structure for a motorcycle includes a vehicle body frame, an internal combustion engine suspended on the vehicle body frame between front and rear wheels and exhaust pipes extending toward a rear side in the longitudinal direction of a vehicle from a front side of the internal combustion engine in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle in a state where the exhaust pipes extend below the internal combustion engine. Exhaust gas sensors are arranged on upper halves of the exhaust pipes arranged between the internal combustion engine and the bottom frame portions as viewed from a front side in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle in a state where the exhaust gas sensors are sandwiched between the internal combustion engine and the bottom frame portions as viewed from a front side in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle.
US09174693B2 Three-wheeled cycle
A three-wheeled cycle is provided that can be ridden in an upright position. The cycle can have a suspension system for traversing rough terrain and for traction when turning. The front wheels can have a steering assembly comprised of a two-piece steering arm that clamps the handlebar to the front fork and connection rod with linkage pins. Furthermore, the design of the cycle can be favorable for transport of additional cargo loads.
US09174691B2 Universal mount battery holder for bicycles
An accessory for attachment to a wheeled vehicle such as a bicycle includes a body portion and a mounting portion. The mounting portion has a V-shaped groove for receiving a wide range of shapes and sizes of frame tubing, wheel hubs, and the like. The groove has first and second portions separated by a notch to engage curved tubing with at least two contacts. A pair of cable ties secures the accessory to the tubing or the hub. A plurality of interchangeable mounting portions can be provided for mounting the accessory to the bicycle in different orientations. When a light is secured to a wheel, the accessory can be a battery holder secured to the hub on an opposite side of the hub from the light to offset weight of the light. The wheel can be balanced with proper radial positioning of the light and the battery holder.
US09174685B2 Vehicle interior partition
In one embodiment, the present disclosure is a modular construction of at least one partition panel combined with a structural footer rail, at least one close out wing, at least one header panel, optional gaskets to provide sound deadening between the cargo side and the cab side of the vehicle interior, and a structural reinforcing hoop to provide rigidity to the partition structure and create a “box” structure to the partition.
US09174683B2 Floor reinforcement structure for vehicle body
The invention includes a floor reinforcement structure for vehicle body providing rigidity to an area around a main and rear floor joint; improving vehicle-body rigidity and rigidity against floor shaking and associated vehicle interior noise; and improving vehicle running stability. A floor reinforcement structure includes: a main floor; rear floor; side sill; a floor tunnel with a hat-like cross-section protruding from the floor and located medially in the main floor in the vehicle width direction and extending in a front-and-rear direction; and a vertical wall at the front of the rear floor extending in a vehicle vertical direction. The vertical wall is continuous with no steps The height of a top face thereof is larger than twice the height of a top face of the side sill, which is more than twice the height of a top face of a rear end portion of the floor tunnel.
US09174682B2 Engine hood arrangement
An engine hood and a method of making a hood for a tractor or similar vehicle, the hood being of generally inverted U-shaped configuration with an upper top portion and downwardly extending side portions. The hood is hinged adjacent one end for upward pivoting between a closed position in which an associated engine is covered and an open position which provides access to the engine. The hood has an outer skin and inner reinforcing members secured to the inside of the outer skin to form two beam-like structures which extend away from the hinge towards the other end of the hood to stiffen the hood against twisting.
US09174680B2 Formation in hollow extruded vehicle frame component for subassembly attachment and method of forming the same
A frame component of a vehicle, such as a header beam that couples between the A-pillars of a vehicle frame, includes an extruded hollow member having top and bottom exterior walls and side walls that together enclose an elongated internal volume of the hollow member. A pair of interior walls extends along the internal volume separating outer load sections adjacent to the side walls from a central attachment section. The outer load sections are void of apertures for supporting continuous load paths. A formation on the bottom exterior wall protrudes into the internal volume in the central attachment section. The formation includes an inset surface angled, located, and otherwise configured for attaching a subassembly to the frame component.
US09174679B2 Vehicle with a deflection device, and deflection device
Front longitudinal members (11) of a vehicle (10) extend forward from a passenger cell (12) and partially bound an engine compartment (13), in which a drive unit (14) is positioned. A deflection device (17) has deflection elements (18) fastened to the front longitudinal members (11) for rotation about vertical axes (24). In the event of a partially overlapping frontal collision with a barrier, the deflection element (18) is rotated by the collision from an inoperative position in which the deflection element extends in the longitudinal direction of the respective front longitudinal member (11), into a collision position where a first portion (19) of the deflection element (18) projects into the engine compartment (13). Thus, a longitudinal pulse from the frontal collision acting toward the passenger cell (12) is at least partially converted by the deflection element (18) into a transverse pulse acting on the drive unit (14).
US09174678B2 Twelve-cornered strengthening member
A strengthening member for an automotive vehicle comprises a twelve-cornered cross section including sides and corners creating internal angles and external angles. Each internal angle ranges from about 100° to about 110° and each external angle ranges from about 105° to about 130°.
US09174671B2 Steering system arrangement with releasable connection means
This invention relates to a steering system arrangement for a vehicle, the steering system arrangement comprising a first portion providing a steering input, and a second portion providing a steering output, the first and second portions being connected by connection means selectively releasable to permit selection of the relative positioning of the steering input and the steering output. An associated method for retro fitting the steering system arrangement to a vehicle is also disclosed.
US09174666B2 Rack shaft support device and steering system including rack shaft support device
A rack shaft support device includes: a support yoke, a plug, an intermediate cam component and a rotation force generating spring. The plug includes a plug body, a plug cap component and a locknut. The plug body has a plug fixing portion, a plug back wall portion, a plug cam portion, a plug internal space and a first restricting portion. The first restricting portion has a first body portion and a first facing portion. The intermediate cam component includes an intermediate cam body, an intermediate cam portion and a second restricting portion. The second restricting portion has a second body portion and a second facing portion. The second facing portion faces the first facing portion.
US09174665B2 Construction for fastening a bearing and a steering gear unit using this construction for fastening a bearing
Provided is simple construction, in a mechanical apparatus such as a rack and pinion steering gear unit, for fastening a bearing that supports thrust loads to a member of the mechanical apparatus using a tapered snap ring, such that there is high rigidity against thrust loads. With the outer ring 17 of the bearing 15 positioned with respect to the housing 11a so that the axial length L27 between the circumferential edge of the axial one side surface 32a of the locking groove 27 and the axial one side surface 34 of the outer ring 17 is less than the maximum thickness T28a of the tapered snap ring 28a, the tapered snap ring 28a is locked into the locking groove 27. The gap 35 is provided between the axial other side surface 31 of the tapered snap ring 28a and the axial other side surface 33 of the locking groove 33.
US09174662B2 Brake device and child carrier provided with the same
A brake device is disposed at a child carrier including a frame and at least one wheel unit that includes a hub and a plurality of spokes radiating from the hub. The brake device includes a base unit, an operable unit, a brake unit, and a positioning unit. The base unit is connected to the frame and is formed with a first guiding groove and a through hole. The operable unit is pivotally connected to the base unit and includes at least one side wall formed with a positioning hole and a second guiding groove. The brake unit is disposed slidably in the first and second guiding grooves. The positioning unit is disposed in the through hole and includes a positioning component and an elastic member elastically abutting against the positioning component.
US09174660B2 Shopping trolley with display or advertising surface
The purchasing aid is temporarily connected to a housing for the advertising surface which is permanently present, said housing being arranged fixedly on the shopping trolley, wherein the fastening for the purchasing aid is arranged outside the advertising surface, and the advertising surface which is permanently present can optionally also be used as a display for the purchasing aid.
US09174656B2 Insulative railway boxcar
A freight car having insulative material interposed between inner and outer enclosures of the freight car.
US09174655B2 System and method for vehicle engine control
A control system for a vehicle system includes a mechanically-adjustable valve having a plurality of positions, a position sensor, and a controller. The mechanically-adjustable valve is configured to be disposed onboard a rail vehicle that is coupled to at least one other rail vehicle in a consist. The position sensor is configured to be disposed in the rail vehicle to monitor a current position of the mechanically-adjustable valve. The position sensor is configured to generate an output signal that represents the current position of the mechanically-adjustable valve. The controller is configured to be communicatively coupled to the position sensor and to receive the output signal of the position sensor. The controller is configured to set an operational status of the rail vehicle in the consist based on the output signal and to adjust automatic engine shutdown and restart operations of the rail vehicle based on the operational status.
US09174650B2 Driver assistance system for a vehicle, vehicle having a driver assistance system, and method for assisting a driver in driving a vehicle
The invention relates to a driver assistance system for a vehicle (1), wherein the driver assistance system has at least one controller (2, 4, 6, 9, 11, 14) installed in the vehicle (1) and/or at least one sensor device (16, 17, 18, 19) installed in the vehicle (1), wherein the at least one controller (2, 4, 6, 9, 11, 14) and/or the at least one sensor device (16, 17, 18, 19) has a communication interface (21) which can be used to transmit data directly between the controller (2, 4, 6, 9, 11, 14) and/or the sensor device (16, 17, 18, 19) and a portable communication appliance (22) at least in one direction by bypassing a data transmission system (20) inside the vehicle, wherein the data transmission causes the portable communication appliance (22) and the controller (2, 4, 6, 9, 11, 14) and/or the sensor device (16, 17, 18, 19) to interact such that at least one function can be performed which assists a driver in driving the vehicle (1). The invention also relates to a vehicle (1) and to a method for assisting a driver in driving a vehicle (1).
US09174647B2 Vehicle driver-model controller with energy economy rating adjustments
A controller with energy economy rating (EER) calibration logic is configured to adjust a look-ahead time and feed-forward mapping window for vehicle controls according to EER.
US09174646B2 Motor control device for electric vehicle
An electric vehicle motor control device controls the transmission of power from an electric motor to driving wheels via an automatic transmission. The electric vehicle motor control device includes a vehicle speed detecting device that detects a vehicle speed of the electric vehicle and a controller. The controller includes a required driving power calculating section that calculates a required driving power of the electric vehicle, and a target motor rotational speed calculating section that calculates a target motor rotational speed. The target motor rotational speed is calculated so that an efficiency of a product of a power consumption rate of the electric motor and a transmission efficiency of the automatic transmission will become a prescribed target efficiency, based on the vehicle speed and the required driving power. The controller controls the electric motor based on the target motor rotational speed.
US09174645B2 Systems and methods for detecting and reducing high driveline torsional levels in automobile transmissions
The present disclosure provides systems and methods to detect and reduce any high driveline torsional levels, such as due to the cylinder deactivation in variable displacement system engines or aggressive lock-up strategies for fuel efficiency, in automobile transmissions. The present disclosure utilizes a controller in an automobile to operate a computationally thrifty method for quickly detecting noise and vibration disturbances in the transmission. This quick detection enables fuel economic calibrations that aggressively reduce the disturbances by controlling slip in a launch device of the transmission. As problem disturbances arise, they are detected before occupants notice objectionable behavior. Once detected, the disturbances are reduced, such as by increasing launch device slip, which effectively intercepts the objectionable disturbances before they are transferred through the entire drivetrain. The present disclosure can also apply to launch devices in Dual Clutch Transmissions and Electronically-controlled Manual Transmissions.
US09174644B2 Vehicle shift control device
If, in uphill deceleration determination procedure, it is determined that the vehicle is being decelerated on an uphill slope, a transmission shift lever is in D range, the motor is in order, the start gear is a first specified gear or lower, a to-be-selected traveling gear is a second specified gear or lower, an actual even-numbered gear is a third specified gear or higher, and actual odd-numbered gear is a fourth specified gear or higher, a first, a second and a third synchronizer mechanisms are put in neutral position to create a state in which no gear is selected. Then, a shift to a gear suited for re-acceleration is conducted by activating operating the first, second and the third synchronizer mechanisms.
US09174642B2 Motor vehicle having a driver assistance device and method for operating a motor vehicle
A motor vehicle has a driver assistance device to guide the motor vehicle in an automated manner during travel. The driver assistance device can be switched between a plurality of assistance modes. First, second and third control device differ in the actions the control. The first operating device directly drives the motor vehicle by the driver of the motor vehicle in a manual mode. The second operating device adjusts driving parameters for a partially automated assistance mode, and the third operating device serves as a user interface for the fully automated assistance mode. In a fully automated assistance mode, the driver assistance device provides independent lateral guidance and controls a wheel steering angle. In this case, an actuator adjusts a rotary position of the steering wheel to follow the wheel steering angle set by the driver assistance device.
US09174641B2 Safety device for a motor vehicle and method for operating a motor vehicle
In a device and a method for increasing the safety of a motor vehicle, a first sensor unit (2) detects the environment, in particular free spaces and objects (0) and the position and motion thereof, a second sensor unit (20) detects the environment state, a third sensor unit (30) detects the vehicle state, and a fourth sensor unit (40) detects the driver inputs. The respective data from the several sensor units are combined. In consideration of the data, a driving safety coordinator (6) calculates the risk of collision on the basis of a risk evaluation, and determines pre-collision phases (P1, P2, P3, P4a, P4b) of the motor vehicle (1) with regard to the object (0).
US09174640B2 System and method for controlling a hybrid powertrain
A system for controlling a hybrid powertrain having an electric motor, an engine and a transmission includes an engine control module that receives a torque request, and when the hybrid powertrain is being powered by the electric motor, determines whether to switch from the electric motor to the engine based on the torque request. A transmission control module, in response to a determination to switch from the electric motor to the engine, determines a target engine speed based on the torque request, and switches the hybrid powertrain from the electric motor to the engine based on a comparison between a current engine speed and the target engine speed.
US09174639B2 Shift control method and system of hybrid vehicle
A shift control method and system of a hybrid vehicle that prevent engine clutch slip occurring when a transfer torque of engine clutch is greater than an allowable transfer torque under unfavorable driving conditions by controlling a shifting time, may include, (a) detecting an engine torque. (b) determining an input torque of an engine clutch based on the engine torque. (c) comparing the determined input torque and a predetermined allowable transfer torque of the engine clutch. (d) increasing a present shifting time by a predetermined value when the determined input torque is greater than the allowable transfer torque and applying the increased shifting time.
US09174636B2 Method for energy management in a hybrid vehicle
A method for managing energy in response to a request of a driver for torque on a power train of a hybrid vehicle including a heat engine and at least one electric motor powered by a battery, capable of recovering energy during deceleration in accordance with a management rule distributing the energy supply from the heat engine and from the electric motor in real time. The energy-management law depends on: an equivalence factor that is based on an instantaneous energy state of the battery, an energy target, and travel conditions of the vehicle; and a discharge precompensation factor that is based on energy potential that can be recovered during deceleration.
US09174633B2 Methods and systems providing driveline braking
Systems and methods for improving operation of a hybrid vehicle are presented. In one example, driveline braking may transition from regenerative braking to engine braking to reduce the possibility of battery degradation.
US09174630B2 Control device for transmission and braking torque generation determination method for transmission
A control device for a transmission including m (m≧3) solenoid valves and configured to establish a plurality of shift speeds by engaging n1 (2≦n1
US09174629B2 Vehicle
A vehicle includes a driving source, a shutter device, and a controller. The driving source is configured to generate a driving force. The shutter device is configured to adjust an amount of air for cooling the driving source. The controller is configured to control the driving source and is configured to restrict an operation of the driving source based on a temperature of the driving source when a failure of the shutter device is detected.
US09174628B2 Method and apparatus for controlling an electrically powered hydraulic pump in a powertrain system
A powertrain system includes a transmission employing an electrically-powered hydraulic pump providing pressurized hydraulic fluid to a hydraulic circuit. A method of operating the powertrain system includes monitoring a temperature of the hydraulic pump. In response to the temperature exceeding a threshold temperature, power output from an electrically-powered motor coupled to the hydraulic pump is derated, which includes decreasing rotational speed of the hydraulic pump and maintaining hydraulic pressure in the hydraulic circuit.
US09174625B2 Method for operating a hybrid drive
To improve the purification action of a catalytic converter that is being heated but has not yet reached a desired operating temperature, the internal combustion engine is driven by an electric machine to convey a flow of heating medium through a catalytic converter for heating purposes before the internal combustion engine is started.
US09174621B2 Linear rail magnetic biasing for a storage library
Systems and methods are described for providing magnetic biasing of a carriage in context of linear guides. In one embodiment, a robotic mechanism is configured to travel on a platform assembly within a structural context. The platform assembly transports a carriage in a Z direction, and the carriage transports the robotic mechanism in an X direction. The carriage moves in the X direction along rails (e.g., and/or other types of linear guides) in a substantially floating or unbiased manner. For example, one or more alignment features on the carriage are in communication with the rails to allow the carriage to move relatively freely within an alignment region defined by the alignment features. When the carriage reaches its desired X location, magnetic features bias the carriage into a substantially accurate, secure, and repeatable position.
US09174615B2 Drive support apparatus
A drive support apparatus is disclosed, which includes a sonar sensor that transmits an ultrasonic wave to an object outside of a vehicle to obtain, based on a reflected wave thereof, object information related to a distance to the object; a controller that permits a first drive force limitation control when the distance to the object is longer than or equal to a predetermined distance, and permits at least one of a second drive force limitation control and an intervention brake control when the distance to the object is shorter than the predetermined distance, wherein a limitation level in the second drive force limitation control is higher than that in the first drive force limitation control.
US09174610B2 Wiper blade and wiper for vehicle
A wiper blade includes a wiper strip, a backing, a blade holder coupled to the wiper arm, and two opposed cases arranged at two longitudinal ends of the blade holder. The blade holder includes a blade holding portion, which surrounds a base portion of the wiper strip and the backing at a longitudinally central portion of the wiper strip and the backing. The blade holding portion restricts movement of the wiper strip and the backing in a direction orthogonal to the longitudinal direction. Each case includes a case holding portion that surrounds the base portion of the wiper strip and the backing. The case holding portion restricts movement of the wiper strip and the backing in a direction orthogonal to the longitudinal direction.
US09174609B2 Wiper blade with cover
A cover for windshield wiper blades having an elongate body with a central collar and first and second elongate portions extending from the central collar. The first and second elongate portions having outer ends, and the central collar defining an interior passageway having a snap-fit tongue. A channel is disposed along each of the first and second elongate portions extending from the central collar towards the outer ends; and an end retainer or other securing mechanism is located at the outer ends. Also, windshield wiper blades incorporating such covers.
US09174608B2 Seatbelt system having a force limiter
A belt retractor including a force limiter comprises a belt reel which is rotatably supported in a frame as well as a blocking unit counteracting a rotation of the belt reel and a force limiter between the belt reel and the blocking unit which permits a limited torsion of the belt reel against the blocking unit under load. The force limiter includes a damping element consisting of a cross-linked polymer which is sheared under load.
US09174607B2 Webbing take-up device
A shaft portion formed at a vertical wall of a sensor housing is formed in a circular column shape, and an abut portion is formed facing a support wall, below the shaft portion. A width dimension of the abut portion is the same as the diameter dimension of the shaft portion as seen in plan view, and the abut portion is formed so as to overlap entirely with the shaft portion as seen from the opposite side of the shaft portion to the abut portion. Foreign objects such as dirt or dust that fall onto the circular column shaped shaft portion therefore readily slide over the shaft portion and fall down from the shaft portion, and foreign objects such as dirt or dust do not stay on the abut portion.
US09174602B1 Side pillar assemblies with multi-surface retention structures for side airbags
A vehicle includes a pillar garnish mounted at a side pillar assembly of the vehicle. The pillar garnish has an upper end portion, a roof head lining with an outer portion that extends along the upper end portion of the pillar garnish, and an airbag jump bracket fixedly located between a pillar body and the roof head lining. The airbag jump bracket includes a first portion extending in a vehicle height direction and a second portion extending outwardly from the first portion in a vehicle width direction. The second portion supports an airbag body that guides the airbag body toward an occupant compartment of the vehicle during an airbag deployment event. The airbag jump bracket further includes an outwardly turned flange portion that extends outwardly in the vehicle width direction to underhang the second portion of the airbag jump bracket. The outwardly turned flange portion has an underside and terminates at an end located beneath the second portion of the airbag jump bracket. The pillar garnish includes an airbag jump bracket engaging feature including a tower engaging portion and a ledge engaging portion. The ledge engaging portion includes a ledge engaging surface that engages the outwardly turned flange portion during an airbag deployment event in the vehicle height direction and the tower engaging portion includes a tower engaging surface that engages the outwardly turned flange portion during an airbag deployment event in a vehicle width direction.
US09174601B2 Vehicle seat assembly with air bag guide secured to an air bag
In at least certain embodiments, the vehicle seat assembly comprises a frame, a seat pad, a trim cover extending over the seat pad with the cover having a release seam, and an air bag assembly including an inflator and an air bag. In accordance with this embodiment, the air bag assembly includes an air bag guide associating the air bag assembly with the release seam, with one of the air bag guide and the air bag having rear ends connected to opposite sides of the other of the air bag guide and the air bag.
US09174598B2 Collision prediction device
In a collision surface determination computing section 27, a collision prediction ECU 2 selects a surface of an own vehicle where an opponent vehicle collides when the own vehicle and opponent vehicle collide with each other. A vehicle track intersection computing section 29 calculates an intersection between the own vehicle and the opponent vehicle. According to the intersection between the own vehicle and opponent vehicle and respective times when the own vehicle and opponent vehicle reach the intersection, a collision determining section 30 determines whether the own vehicle and opponent vehicle collide with each other or not. When it is determined that the own vehicle and opponent vehicle collide with each other, a collision position computing section 32 calculates a collision position of the own vehicle where the opponent vehicle collides according to the collision surface selected in the collision surface determination computing section 27.
US09174596B2 Control unit and method for activating occupant protection means
A control unit for activating an occupant protection unit includes, at least one analyzer circuit and at least one other component causing the activation. The at least one analyzer circuit transmits a signal to the at least one component as a function of an error event. The at least one other component performs a setting and at least one reset as a function of the signal.
US09174586B2 Storage compartment apparatus for door of a vehicle
A storage compartment apparatus for a door of a vehicle includes an elongated body that extends along an axis. The elongated body includes impact-absorbing elements arranged along the axis and an axially elongated storage compartment opening at an axial end and coextending with the impact-absorbing elements along the axis.
US09174585B2 Devices and methods for securing skis, snowboards, etc. to crossbars of vehicle roof racks
The present disclosure generally relates to devices that can be used for mounting and securing skis, snowboards, among other equipment to vehicle roof racks (e.g., luggage racks, factory-installed racks, after-market racks, etc.), such as those having crossbars. In an exemplary embodiment, there is a device suitable for use in securing an article to a vehicle roof rack having one or more crossbars. The device generally includes at least one hook component including a curved portion configured to be hooked under a crossbar of a vehicle roof rack. The device also includes a clamping apparatus operable for creating a clamping force to secure the device and the article to the crossbar.
US09174577B2 Mount interface to slide on windscreen button
A rearview device having a rearview display. A rearview device attachment assembly is connected with the rearview display and includes a mount and an attachment clip coupled to the mount. The attachment clip includes a base and first and second opposing flex members extending from the base, each including an arcuate flex portion extending from the base. A connecting portion extends from the arcuate flex portion at an angle toward the base. An engagement portion extends away from the connecting portion at an angle away from the base. First and second protrusions project from the mount, each extending through first and second slots, respectively, in the base. The first and second protrusions are in abutting contact with the engagement portion of the first and second opposing flex members, respectively, thereby forcing the first and second opposing flex members at least partially away from the base.
US09174573B1 Method and system to coach driver of manual transmission vehicle
A coaching system for drivers of vehicles monitors the power dissipation of a manual transmission clutch and, when the energy dissipated during an event is excessive, suggests modified driving technique. The system may monitor launch events, shift events, and steady state driving. The system may adjust the energy threshold at which a suggestion is provided based on vehicle weight or road gradient. The system may also adjust the energy threshold when an estimate of clutch temperature is elevated. The suggestion may be provided on a graphic display or may be provided verbally over a speaker. In some cases, the suggested may also be conveyed to a third party outside the vehicle.
US09174570B2 Wireless light and accessory control system for golf carts and other vehicles
A wireless light and accessory control system for golf carts (18) and other vehicles having a sender (1) that permits a user to remotely activate various accessories, such as headlights (2), turn signals (4), horns (5) and other accessories, such as radios, dome lights, etc., by sending signals via a wireless transmitter (12) located in the sender to controllers (13) located in each of the accessories. In addition, brake lights (3) may be activated and deactivated by a motion sensing means (10) in addition to being deactivated after a predetermined amount of time by a timer (11).
US09174567B2 Motor vehicle having a device for influencing the viewing direction of the driver
A motor vehicle with a device for influencing the viewing direction of the driver has a hazard detection and warning output device and a display unit for displaying information contents and/or entertainment contents. The display unit is arranged essentially centrally in the dashboard of the motor vehicle. The passenger compartment of the motor vehicle has a lighting device that is suitable for outputting a dynamic light animation and extends essentially from the display unit to the driver's field of vision on the windshield of the motor vehicle. A light animation that constitutes a movement of light in the direction of the driver's field of vision can be outputted, in order to output a warning about a hazard that relates to or could relate to what is happening on the road in front of the motor vehicle.
US09174556B2 Multi-functional table and chair device
A multi-functional table and chair device has a base, two opposite chair sets mounted on the base, and an adjustable table. Each chair set has at least one chair, and each chair has a supporting bracket, a seat, a backrest and a footrest. The adjustable table is mounted on the base between the chair sets and has a bottom bracket, an elevation mechanism and a table board. When the backrest of one chair is pivoted backward and the footrest is unfolded, the chair is changed into a deck chair. When the footrests of two opposite chairs of the chair sets are pivoted upward and unfolded to be horizontal and the adjustable table is raised to hold the footrests, the two opposite chairs and the adjustable table form a bed.
US09174555B2 Vehicle occupant support
Vehicle occupant support for enhanced comfort and utility in a vehicle with arrangements for crash load protection of occupants. A posture enabling device.
US09174554B2 Seat belt lock-off for a safety seat
This invention relates to a guide for a vehicle seat belt securing a child safety seat in the vehicle. The belt guide comprises a body, a slot extending into the body from an edge thereof and having a longitudinal axis, the slot further extending through the body in a direction transverse to its longitudinal axis, and wherein the belt guide further comprises means adapted to permit movement of the belt lengthwise along the slot, and transversely through the slot in one direction, but not the other. An associated child safety seat comprising a guide is also disclosed.
US09174549B2 Driving force control device for electric vehicle
Disclosed is a driving force control device that includes a determination section (12), a driving force command value calculation section (13), and a command value output section (14). The determination section (12) determines whether each of a plurality of motors (106), which independently drive a plurality of wheels (107), can be operated within a desired operating range when driven by a target driving force calculated for each of the motors (106). The driving force command value calculation section (13) adjusts the distribution of driving force for each of the motors in accordance with the target driving force for each of the motors and with the operating status of each of the motors and calculates an actual driving force command value for each of the motors for the purpose of operating each of the motors within the desired operating range if the determination means determines that each of the motors cannot be operated within the desired operating range. The command value output section (14) outputs the driving force command value to each of a plurality of inverters (105). Therefore, a target vehicle motion can be maximally realized while appropriately maintaining the drive status of each of the motors.
US09174546B2 Propulsion control apparatus of electric motor vehicle and control method for propulsion control apparatus
A power storage device is electrically connected to a first input and output end located on the opposite side of a direct-current common section in a second power converter. According to an input form of electric power, a first power converter operates as a DC/AC converter or an AC/DC converter. The second power converter operates as a DC/AC converter, an AC/DC converter, or a DC/DC converter. The power storage device is charged using direct-current power supplied from the direct-current common section or the first input and output end side. The power storage device discharges desired direct-current power to the direct-current common section or the first input and output end side. A control device freely adjusts, according to the input form of the electric power, the voltage of the direct-current common section to a desired voltage including a high voltage or a low voltage.
US09174541B2 Halogen-free extra-high-voltage cable for railway rolling stock
A halogen-free extra-high-voltage cable for railway rolling stock includes a stranded conductor, an inner semi-conducting layer covering the stranded conductor, an outer semi-conducting layer provided on an outer periphery of the inner semi-conducting layer via an insulation layer, and a sheath layer on an outer periphery of the outer semi-conducting layer, the sheath layer containing 80 to 200 parts by weight of metal hydroxide and 0.5 to 10 parts by weight of cross-linking agent with respect to 100 parts by weight of olefin-based polymer containing ethylene-vinyl acetate copolymer as a main component, the ethylene-vinyl acetate copolymer having a vinyl acetate content of not less than 40 wt % and less than 50 wt % and a melt flow rate of not more than 2.5 g/10 min and a resin composition is cross-linked.
US09174540B2 Fault diagnosing system and method for coolant switching device for vehicle
A fault diagnosing system method for a coolant switching device for a vehicle are provided. The fault diagnosing system includes a first coolant pipe line that passes through an electronic device and an interior heating device. A second coolant pipe line branches off the first coolant pipe line and passes through a radiator. In addition, a coolant switching device is disposed at a branching point at which the second coolant pipe line branches off the first coolant pipe line and an on-board charger charges a vehicle battery and is disposed on the second pipe line. A controller is configured to determine a failure of the coolant switching device and stop the on-board charger from charging the vehicle battery when a temperature of the on-board charger is greater than a first set temperature and a temperature of the electronic device is less than a second set temperature.
US09174538B2 Device and method for activating and/or deactivating functions of a vehicle
At least two functions provided in an off-road operation of a vehicle are activated or deactivated by a single operation of a control device. The feedback regarding the activated overall functionality takes place via the display device, which may be provided as backlit symbol in the control device. The functions to be activated or deactivated are driver assistance on downhill grades in the form of a downhill driving restriction, flat accelerator pedal characteristic map, either power take-off function for a manual transmission or gear step preselection function for an automatic transmission, navigation display function, instrument cluster display function, driving light activation function, and automatic parking brake function.
US09174535B2 System and apparatus for controlling speed in excess speed enforcement section
An apparatus and method for controlling a speed in an excess speed enforcement section are provided. The method includes determining one of a target speed, a lower limit speed, and a speed limit as a final target speed using a relationship between a target speed, a lower limit speed, and a speed limit. A required acceleration is calculated based on the final target speed and the vehicle speed and the vehicle speed is adjusted using the required acceleration.
US09174530B2 Fuel tank opening-closing device
The fuel tank opening-closing member has a tank opening forming member having a first opening forming member which has a first opening, and a first flap valve mechanism having a first opening-closing member for opening and closing the first opening, and a first shaft for rotatably supporting one end part of the first opening-closing member. The first opening-closing member is equipped with a pressing part having a push face pressed by the tip of the fueling nozzle, and a restriction wall forming a restriction region which restricts so as to allow insertion only of specified fueling nozzle external shapes established along the outer edge of the push face, enclosing at least a portion of the push face, and a guide member which is formed tilted toward the top part of the restriction wall, and leads the tip of the fueling nozzle to the restriction region.
US09174525B2 Hybrid electric vehicle
A hybrid electric vehicle includes a high voltage DC bus and an internal combustion engine. The internal combustion engine is mechanically coupled to a non self-excited generator/motor which is preferably a switched reluctance machine. A power inverter electrically and bidirectionally couples the high voltage DC bus to the non self-excited switched reluctance generator/motor. Front and rear axle dual DC-AC inverters electrically and bidirectionally couple two traction AC non self-excited switched reluctance motors/gear reducers to the high voltage DC bus for moving the vehicle and for regenerating power. An ultracapacitor coupled to the high voltage DC bus. A bidirectional DC-DC converter interposed between a low voltage battery and the high voltage DC bus transfers energy to the high voltage DC bus and ultracapacitor to ensure that the non self-excited switched reluctance generator/motor operating in the motor mode is able to start the engine.
US09174522B2 Hybrid powertrain with input brake
A hybrid powertrain includes a hybrid transmission that has an input member operatively connectable to an engine crankshaft, at least one motor/generator, a gearing arrangement, and an output member operatively connectable to both the input member and said at least one motor/generator. An input brake has a first and a second brake shoe, a selectively energizable solenoid, and a mechanical biasing mechanism. The solenoid is operatively connected to the brake shoes via the mechanical biasing mechanism so that both brake shoes are operatively connected with the input member when the solenoid is energized. When the solenoid is deenergized, the first brake shoe remains operatively connected with and resists rotation of the input member when clockwise torque is applied to the input member and the second brake shoe remains operatively connected with and resists rotation of the input member when counterclockwise torque is applied to the input member.
US09174520B2 Electric vehicle
An electric vehicle wherein at least part of a cell unit is provided along an inclined part of a rear dividing wall. A bottom end of the cell unit is positioned lower than the hip point of a passenger. As seen from the vehicle-width direction, motor mounts are positioned so that the top part of the cell unit and part of the motor mounts overlap in the vertical direction of the electric vehicle.
US09174517B2 Power swing door actuator
In an aspect, a swing door actuation system is provided for moving a door about a vertical axis between open closed positions relative to a vehicle body. The system includes a housing connectable to one of the swing door and the vehicle body, an extensible member that moves relative to the housing, and connects to the other of the swing door and the vehicle body, a motor connected to a gear train that is non-backdrivable, and a normally engaged clutch. The motor is operatively connected to a clutch input end through the gear train. The output end is operatively connected to the extensible member. The clutch is disengageable to disconnect the motor from the extensible member. The clutch has a slip torque that is sufficiently high to prevent movement of the door when the door is exposed to less than a selected external torque and the motor is stopped.
US09174508B2 Active vehicle suspension
A method of on-demand energy delivery to an active suspension system is disclosed. The suspension system includes an actuator body, a hydraulic pump, an electric motor, a plurality of sensors, an energy storage facility, and a controller. The method includes disposing an active suspension system in a vehicle between a wheel mount and a vehicle body, detecting a wheel event requiring control of the active suspension; and sourcing energy from the energy storage facility and delivering it to the electric motor in response to the wheel event.
US09174507B2 Leaf spring assembly
A leaf spring assembly, which may be attached to, for example, an axle or suspended components a vehicle, includes a leaf having a first end and a second end on opposing sides of a center point. The leaf is the only leaf in the leaf spring assembly. The leaf spring assembly also includes a first bumper and a second bumper spaced from the first bumper. The first bumper contacts the leaf upon a first displacement of the leaf spring assembly. The second bumper also contacts the leaf upon the first displacement of the leaf spring assembly.
US09174504B1 Lock and load control arm
A control arm for use in a vehicle suspension. The control arm includes a first connection, the first connection configured to secure the control arm to a first external device and a second connection, the second connection configured to secure the control arm to a second external device. An external force expands or contracts the distance between the first connection and the second connection within predetermined limits. The control arm also includes a mechanical bias, where the mechanical bias returns the distance between the first connection and the second connection to a set free length when the external force is removed.
US09174503B2 Environment activated automatic shut-off switch system and method
An environment-activated automatic shut-off switch is disclosed. The disclosed embodiments allow power to be removed from a trailer auxiliary power circuit when the environment-activated automatic shut-off switch senses that the trailer is being put into motion. The disclosed embodiments of the environment-activated automatic shut-off switch do not require external control signals, such as those received from a vehicle tractor, in order to effectively control the trailer auxiliary power circuit and to ensure that the trailer ABS circuit has dedicated power while the trailer is in motion.
US09174502B2 Vehicle-mounted trailer coupling
In order to connect a trailer coupling, in particular for motor vehicles, comprising a ball neck, a cross member, which is provided with a holding unit for the ball neck, and also two spaced attachment parts, which engage on the cross member and connect the cross member to mounting elements, which are themselves mountable on a rear part of a motor vehicle body, in such a manner that undesirable moments and/or forces are transferred to the motor vehicle body on the lowest possible scale, it is proposed that a connection between the cross member and the mounting elements is achieved only by means of the attachment parts, that the attachment parts have a cross member holding strip element connected to the cross member and that, through at least one curved strip element running to the cross member without connection, the cross member holding strip element runs to a mounting strip element, which is connected to the respective mounting element.
US09174501B2 Ball hitch conversion system
A system is described for detachably securing a housing to a ball hitch (e.g. of the type used in trucks for towing). The system includes a tubular housing for fitting over the ball, and attachment means for detachably securing the housing to the ball. A workpiece can then be secured to the housing, as desired. A preferred attachment means is a pair of opposing lock pins which are movable between retracted and extended positions. When the pins are in the extended position, they secure the housing to the ball hitch. The type of workpieces may vary. For example, the workpiece may be a work table, a vise, a fifth-wheel hitch system, a winch, or an arm for a lift bucket.
US09174498B2 Pneumatic tire
The pneumatic tire includes a belt layer that is formed by laminating a pair of cross belts and a circumferential reinforcing layer. Additionally, the pneumatic tire 1 includes a plurality of circumferential main grooves, and a plurality of land portions partitioned and formed by the circumferential main grooves in a tread portion. Also, the pneumatic tire includes a mark on a buttress portion in order to determine the time for renewal of the tire. Also, an outermost circumferential main groove is on an outer side in a tire width direction of the circumferential reinforcing layer. Also, a groove bottom gauge t of the outermost circumferential main groove and a distance D in a tire radial direction from a predetermined intersection point A to the mark have a relationship such that −1.0≦D/t≦1.0, taking the outer side in the tire radial direction to be positive.
US09174496B2 Tread combining inserts and sipes
Tire tread comprising a tread surface intended to come into contact with a roadway, this tread comprising at least one sipe extending in a main direction D and of mean width E, this sipe comprising in the main direction D at least one part sipe of shallow depth HF and at least one part sipe of great depth HG, the depth HF being less than the depth HG, each part sipe of shallow depth and each part sipe of great depth comprising an end region, this tread further comprising at least one insert oriented in a direction different from the main direction D of the sipe, this insert being positioned wholly within the thickness of the tread so as to be situated radially on the inside of a part sipe of shallow depth HF, this tread being such that at least the part sipe of shallow depth HF situated radially on the outside of the insert is provided, at its end region, with a widening forming a channel of maximum width W, this maximum width W being greater than the mean width E of the sipe.
US09174495B2 Pneumatic tire with tread having sipes
The present invention is directed to a pneumatic tire 1, comprising at least one pair of parallel annular beads 3; at least one carcass ply wrapped 5 around said beads 3; a tread 7; and first and second sidewalls 9 disposed between said tread 7 and one of said at least one pair of beads 3. In accordance with an embodiment of the invention, the tread comprises tread blocks 11 and/or tread ribs 12, wherein the tread blocks 11 and/or tread ribs 12 comprise sipes 13 extending essentially in an axial direction A of the tire 1, the sipes 13 consisting of an upper portion 15 essentially aligned with the radial direction R of the tire and a lower portion 17 inclined in the direction of rotation D of the tire 1.
US09174494B2 Pneumatic tire with tread having first lug grooves and first, second and third inclined grooves
A tread pattern of a pneumatic tire includes: first inclined grooves having positions located separated from a center line as starting ends and extending in a first direction of the tire circumferential direction; first lug grooves extending from respective ends on the outer side in the tire width direction of the first inclined grooves in the first direction of the tire circumferential direction, and having an angle formed with the tire width direction smaller than an angle formed with tire width direction of the first inclined grooves; second inclined grooves extending from the respective ends on the outer side in the tire width direction of the first inclined grooves in the first direction of the tire circumferential direction; and third inclined grooves extending from respective intermediate points on the first lug grooves in the first direction of the tire circumferential direction.
US09174492B2 Pneumatic tire
A pneumatic tire is provided with an asymmetric tread pattern which comprises an inboard shoulder longitudinal groove (3A) at an axial distance Xi from the tire equator (C) and an outboard shoulder longitudinal groove (3B) at an axial distance Xo from the tire equator (C). The distances Xi and Xo are 27 to 33% of the tread width (TW), and the axial distance Xi is less than the axial distance Xo. A tread crown region between the inboard edge (3Ao) of the inboard shoulder longitudinal groove (3A) and the outboard edge (3Bo) of the outboard shoulder longitudinal groove (3B) has a sea ratio of 30 to 50%.
US09174491B2 Pneumatic tire
It is found that the amount of wear of a tread rubber of a tire, which is abandoned as wear life of the tread rubber expires, is not uniform over the entire width, and there is a high correlation between distribution in the tread width direction of the remaining thickness of the tread rubber of the abandoned tire and distribution in the tread width direction of wear effective rubber volume. On the basis of this finding, it is possible to improve wear life of a pneumatic tire 1, by making volume distribution of a base rubber layer 8 of a tread rubber 4, which has a layered structure, equal to distribution of the wear effective rubber layer, so that the tread rubber 4 wears equally in the tread width direction.
US09174488B2 Pivoting axle system
A pivoting axle system for an aerial lift vehicle with a chassis includes a left axle supporting a left wheel and a right axle supporting a right wheel. The left and right axles are pivotable between a transport position and a working position. A first hydraulic cylinder is connected at one end to the chassis on a right side of a vehicle center line and at an opposite end to the left axle, and a second hydraulic cylinder is connected at one end to the chassis on a left side of the vehicle center line and at an opposite end to the right axle. In the working position, the first and second hydraulic cylinders are prevented from deflection beyond a yield point.
US09174487B2 Bicycle rear wheel hub assembly
A rear wheel hub assembly includes a sleeve and a first installation portion and a second installation portion are respectively located in the two open ends of the sleeve. A hub is mounted to one end of the sleeve and two bearings are located between the two open ends of the hub and the sleeve. A ratchet socket is mounted to an end of the sleeve and located away from the first positioning portion. Two end members are located on the two open ends of the sleeve and each end member has a body. The two respective bodies of the two end members are respectively engaged with the first and second installation portions. The two end members are replaceable when the axle of different sizes is replaced so as to be connected to the bicycle frame.
US09174486B2 Bowchalk
A specially designed line marking device includes a marking string that is attached to a bow-shaped support structure with no free end for conveniently use by a single operator, a shuttle for coating the marking string with marking media prior to use, allowing an operator to effectively use this marking device and snap a marking line onto a working surface without the assistance of an additional operator, and a movable carriage containing liquid, powder, or aerosol marking media to be sprayed or deposited along said marking string, creating an inverse image of the marking string.
US09174485B2 Artistic media stretching device
Disclosed is a stretching device for artistic media, which includes a pair of horizontal and vertical frame members. The horizontal frame members and the vertical frame members can be removably connected by means of L-shaped joints to form a rectangular frame. Each of the horizontal frame members and the vertical frame members include an upper flat bar and a lower flat bar slideably attached thereto by means of slide screws. The upper flat bar and the lower flat bar can be brought closer together so as to hold an edge of a piece of paper therebetween by adjusting clamping screws affixed thereto. The upper flat bar and the lower flat bar can be moved away from the horizontal frame member or the vertical frame member by means of stretch knob screws. In one embodiment, the device may be utilized to stretch watercolor paper and prevent the paper from wrinkling.
US09174483B2 Image display
An image display including an image substrate and a support structure. The image substrate has an image printed on a first surface. The support structure can include a front sheet, a back sheet and a plurality of side strips secured between the front sheet and the back sheet for forming a closed support structure. An internal support can be provided in an internal cavity of the support structure for enhancing the rigidity of the support structure. The image substrate can be adhered to an external surface of the front sheet so that the front sheet forms a rigid backing for the image substrate. A variety of image substrates are provided.
US09174480B2 Inkjet-printable flexography substrate, method of making, and method of using
A flexography substrate for making I-plates with liquid photopolymers has, in addition to the tie-coat applied to one side to hold the photopolymers in place on the substrate, an adhesive layer applied to the other side. A clear release liner is applied to the adhesive layer, the adhesive layer adhering less firmly to the release liner than to the substrate. An inkjet-receptive coating is applied to the clear release liner. The masking image for the I-plate is applied to the clear release liner using an inkjet printer. After the substrate has been used to make a flexographic plate, the release liner is peeled off of the adhesive layer. The flexographic plate can then be applied to a print roll without the step of manually applying adhesive to it.
US09174479B2 Coated printing paper and method for forming printed images
The invention provides coated printing paper having base paper and on at least one surface of the base paper, a coating layer containing a pigment and a binder as main components, wherein the base paper contains calcium carbonate, the coating layer contains ground calcium carbonate as a pigment in an amount of 50 parts by mass or more relative to 100 parts by mass of the total of the pigment(s) in the coating layer, the base paper and/or the coating layer contains a calcium compound other than calcium carbonate, and the content of calcium derived from the calcium compound is 3 mmol to 60 mmol, both inclusive, in terms of calcium ions per 1 m2 of the base paper and/or the coating layer.
US09174478B2 Thermal transfer recording medium
There is provided a thermal transfer recording medium capable of obtaining high transfer sensitivity during high-speed printing, that is, decreasing the amount of a dye used in a dye layer; and preventing abnormal transfer during printing even after storage in a high-temperature and high-humidity environment. The thermal transfer recording medium (1) contains: a heat-resistant sliding layer (40) that is formed on one surface of a substrate (10); and an undercoat layer (20) and a dye layer (30) that are sequentially laminated on the other surface of the substrate (10), in which the undercoat layer (20) contains, as major components, a polyvinyl pyrrolidone and a polyvinyl alcohol having a crystallinity degree of 15% or higher, and the dye layer (30) contains an anthraquinone-based thermal transfer dye.
US09174475B2 Image recording apparatus, and method and recording medium for optimizing defective-recording-element compensation parameter
In the optimization of a non-discharge correction parameter for correcting a non-discharge using a non-discharge correction nozzle, a first test chart including a non-recording region that is the recording position of the non-discharge correction nozzle, a measurement chart region where a measurement chart is formed, and a uniform concentration region is formed for a designated nozzle that is previously designated. Then, the first test chart is read, the reading data is analyzed, the concentration at the measurement chart and the concentration at the uniform concentration region are compared for each non-discharge correction parameter, and a non-discharge correction parameter corresponding to the concentration at the measurement chart that minimizes the concentration difference from the uniform concentration region is derived as the optimum value of the non-discharge correction parameter for the designated nozzle.
US09174473B2 Liquid ejecting apparatus
A liquid ejecting apparatus includes a liquid ejecting unit that ejects ink onto paper, a medium holding portion that holds the paper to be fed to the liquid ejecting unit, and a removal portion that removes adhering objects that have adhered to the paper, in a feed path of the paper that is positioned lower than the medium holding portion.
US09174469B2 Face-down printing apparatus and method
Film-forming apparatuses, systems, and methods are provided. The apparatus can include a substrate positioning system and a printing array that includes an inkjet printing array and/or a thermal printing array. The positioning system can be a gas-bearing plate system. The positioning system can be configured to move a substrate between a first position, away from the printing array, and a second position, above the printing array. The apparatuses, systems, and methods can be used to manufacture organic light emitting devices (OLEDs), for example, flat panel displays.
US09174462B2 Recording apparatus
A recording apparatus includes: a first roller; a plurality of second rollers which are displaceably provided between a position that is contacted with the first roller and a position that is left apart from the first roller, and are disposed along an axial direction of rotation of the first roller; and a unit that switches roller position, which causes the second rollers located outside a region of a medium among the plurality of second rollers to leave apart from the first roller depending on a size of a medium that is transported.
US09174461B2 Image-forming method
An image-forming method that comprises: a process of discharging a radiation-curable inkjet ink, which contains a photopolymerizable compound, a photopolymerization initiator, and a gelling agent and which undergoes a phase transition depending on the temperature, on a recording medium; and a process of curing the radiation-curable inkjet ink discharged on the recording medium by irradiating active radiation thereon. The method performs the irradiation with the active radiation so that the maximum illuminance at the surface of the recording medium is 2-5 W/cm2 and in the distribution of illuminance in the irradiated region at the surface of the recording medium in the direction of recording medium conveyance, the half-width of the illuminance is 20 mm or more. Using said image-forming method, productivity is high and images with excellent gloss homogeneity, surface curability and abrasion properties can be formed.
US09174459B2 Imaging system, writing head, and image forming apparatus
An imaging system includes incidence faces composed of optical faces having an image focusing function; prisms; and exit faces. The incidence faces are arranged with a first pitch along a first axial direction. The prisms are arranged with a second pitch along the first axial direction. The exit faces are arranged with a third pitch along the first axial direction. The first axial direction is set as a Y direction. A normal line direction of a face top of an optical face of the incidence face in a plane perpendicular to the first axial direction is set as a X direction. A direction perpendicular to the Y direction and the X direction is set as a Z direction. In a XZ cross-section plane, a width of the prism in the Z direction is smaller than a width of optical face of the incidence face in the Z direction.
US09174451B2 Cleaning device for liquid ejecting head, and liquid ejecting apparatus with the same
The liquid ejecting apparatus includes a cleaning member that is brought into contact with a region including a nozzle face of the liquid ejecting head that ejects a liquid from nozzles formed in the nozzle face such that the cleaning member is capable of cleaning the liquid ejecting head, the cleaning member having a pile section in which a plurality of pile elements are raised in a portion of the cleaning member in contact with the region of the liquid ejecting head.
US09174449B2 Wiper cassette, wiper unit and liquid ejecting apparatus
Ratchets which regulate a rotation of either a reeling-out roller around which one end of a long wiping member which wipes ink attached to a recording head which ejects ink is wound, or a winding-up roller around which the other end of the wiping member is wound to which tension is applied due to a friction force which acts on the wiping member when performing wiping are provided.
US09174443B2 Liquid ejecting head and liquid ejecting apparatus
A cover member is fixed to a head chip in an area in the vicinity of a nozzle plate but does not constitute a communication path, and thus causes no liquid leakage. The head chip discharges droplets of a discharge liquid that is supplied via the communication path which is formed from nozzles thereof without depending on the cover member. A surface of the nozzle plate is positioned on a side further apart from a printing medium than from a surface of the cover member and is surrounded. As a result, abutting of the printing medium against a side surface of the nozzle plate is avoided.
US09174441B2 Liquid ejecting head, liquid ejecting apparatus, piezoelectric element, and method for manufacturing piezoelectric element
A flow channel substrate has pressure chambers, and the pressure chambers communicate with nozzle openings configured to eject liquid. Each of piezoelectric elements on the flow channel substrate has a piezoelectric layer, a pair of electrodes, and a wiring layer coupled to the electrodes. The wiring layer has a first layer on the flow channel substrate side and a second layer on the first layer. The first layer contains palladium and is formed by pretreatment, whereas the second layer contains nickel and is formed by electroless plating.
US09174439B2 Liquid ejection head and method for manufacturing liquid ejection head
A liquid ejection head includes a print element board and an electric wiring board electrically connected to a bump of the print element board using an interconnecting wire. The bump has a first surface and a second surface. The height of the second surface from a surface of a base plate is higher than that of the first surface. The first surface has a protrusion formed therein, and the bump is connected to the interconnecting wire in the second surface.
US09174438B2 Liquid film moving over porous catcher surface
A printhead includes a jetting module that forms liquid drops travelling along a first path. A deflection mechanism causes selected liquid drops formed by the jetting module to deviate from the first path and begin travelling along a second path. A catcher includes a stationary porous surface. A liquid film flows over the stationary porous surface of the catcher. The catcher is positioned relative to the first path such that the liquid drops travelling along one of the first path and the second path contact the liquid film.
US09174435B2 Liquid ejecting device
A liquid ejecting device includes a driving waveform signal generating circuit that generates a driving waveform signal, a modulation circuit that performs pulse modulation on the driving waveform signal to generate a modulation signal, a digital power amplifier that amplifies power of the modulation signal to generate a power amplification modulation signal in the form of a pulse wave, a filter that smoothes the power amplification modulation signal in the pulse wave to generate the driving signal, a connection cable that connects the filter to the capacitive load and is provided such that at least one of the filter and the capacitive load is detachable, a connection line information acquiring unit that acquires connection line information associated with the connection cable, and a frequency changing unit that changes a frequency when the modulation circuit performs the pulse modulation on the driving waveform signal, on the basis of the connection line.
US09174434B2 Droplet generator
The present invention provides a droplet generator (10) of the velocity modulation type, the generator (10) being configured so that substantially all the modulation energy generated by piezo-electric crystals (60) is transformed into vibration of the nozzle (34). The generator preferably also includes an internal closure mechanism (70) which blocks off the nozzle (34) when the generator is not in operation, but which is de-coupled from the modulation process when the generator is operating.
US09174432B2 Wetting enhancement coating on intermediate transfer member (ITM) for aqueous inkjet intermediate transfer architecture
Described herein is a method and apparatus for ink jet printing. The method includes providing a wetting enhancement coating on a transfer member. The wetting enhancement coating includes water; non-water soluble binders selected from the group consisting of acrylic polymers, styrene acrylic polymers, vinyl-acrylic polymers, vinyl acetate ethylene; and a surfactant. The wetting enhancement coating is dried to form a film having a surface energy greater than 25 mJ/m2. Ink droplets are ejected onto the film to form an ink image on the film. The ink image is dried and the ink image and film are transferred to a recording medium.
US09174431B2 Printing screen
A printing screen comprises a screen printing foil and a sub-frame component secured to an edge of the foil, wherein the foil is formed with cut-outs defining deflectable parts of the foil to be deflected out of the plane of the remainder thereof, and the sub-frame component comprises a fixed lip upon which part of the foil can be received, a recess into which the said deflectable parts of the foil can be deflected, and a moveable lip defining a series of spaced projections, the moveable lip being moveable to a position in which the projections bear against the deflectable parts of the foil, deflecting the deflectable parts into the recess to secure the foil to the sub-frame component.
US09174430B2 Numbering and imprinting machine
This invention discloses a numbering and imprinting machine including an impression cylinder, a stamp cylinder, a first printing cylinder, a second printing cylinder, and a moving inker which includes a first ink supply device and second ink supply device. A first space is formed between the moving inker, which is set at a retraction position, and the first and second printing cylinders so as to permit entrance of the operator into it. A second space is formed between the stamp cylinder and the first printing cylinder to permit the operator who has entered the first space to access the impression cylinder.
US09174422B1 Apparatus for manufacturing microconduit networks formed by electrospinning techniques
A microconduit network structure and methods for making the same. One aspect of the invention relates to a microconduit network structure, including: a solid or semi-solid matrix having at least one interconnected web of filaments formed within the matrix; and wherein at least one interconnected web of filaments having diameters of about 10 nm to about 1 mm.
US09174420B2 Breathable film with internal viral and alcohol barrier layer
Multilayer breathable barrier films are provided. The films contain one or more layers of polymers without fillers in combination with at least two or more microporous breathable layers. The barrier layer provides a viral and alcohol barrier that can effectively allow moisture vapor to pass.
US09174417B2 Housing for electrical power cells in electrically driven automotive vehicles
A housing suitable to comprise multiple electrical power cells in electrically driven motor vehicles comprises at least one lower receiving part and one upper covering part. Both parts fit together and create inside a hollow space. Both parts are prepared from a multilayered material comprising at least one support layer of thermoplastic polymer and at least one cover layer of metal adhering to each other. Such housing is perfectly suitable to protect the power cells inside against mechanical damage and against the influence of fire and/or electromagnetic radiation.
US09174416B2 Alloy powder for oxidation-resistant coating, and alloy material formed of the powder and excellent in oxidation resistance characteristics
A mixed powder of an Ni—Al alloy and alumina is produced by heating a first mixed powder, which is prepared by mixing an Ni—Al mixed powder as prepared by mixing an Al powder with Ni in such a manner that Al therein could fall within a range of from 25 atomic % to 60 atomic %, and an alumina powder in a range of from 40% by mass to 60% by mass, in vacuum or in an inert gas atmosphere at a temperature falling within a range of from 600° C. to 1300° C. for at least 1 hour, and then grinding the resulting product.
US09174409B2 Scored media substrate and curling remedy for micro-fluid applications
A media substrate for imaging includes a front and back surface defining a thickness. The front receives imaging fluid and absorbs it. The back has scoring lines extending into the thickness that limit curling of the media substrate as the absorbed fluid dries on the front. Patterns and locations of scoring lines as well as their depth into the thickness are noted. Imaging and scoring stations in an imaging device are still other embodiments as are cutting features for scoring.
US09174406B1 Waste compactor system
A waste compactor configured to compact waste into a plurality of compacted waste units for disposal in a waste container. There is a compaction chamber and a ram assembly disposed within the compaction chamber. There is an actuator interconnected to the ram assembly to apply a force to move the ram assembly from a retracted position toward an extended position to achieve a pressure on a compaction surface of the ram assembly as it compacts the waste. There is a plurality of apertures on at least one internal surface proximate of the compaction chamber through which liquid removed from the waste during the compaction mode exits the compaction chamber. There is also a liquid collection system, in communication with the plurality of apertures, to collect the liquid from the plurality of apertures. The liquid collection system includes an evaporation system configured to evaporate a portion of the liquid.
US09174405B2 Tread strip curing station
A curing station for curing a tread strip, having a flat curing mold; a gripper which grips a portion of the cured tread strip inside the curing mold; an actuating device which, at the end of the curing process, moves the gripper to gradually extract the cured tread strip from the curing mold; and a guide device which, as the cured tread strip is extracted, is positioned over the curing mold, and has a main roller, about which the extracted part of the cured tread strip winds, and a secondary roller smaller in diameter than, and positioned parallel to and alongside, the main roller.
US09174403B2 Method of manufacture of pipe with reinforced female end
The present invention is directed to manufacturing processes for manufacturing a single piece of thermostatic pipe from a length of pipe with a female end that is reinforced by a band of reinforcing material extending around the female end. When the pipe and a similar adjacent pipe are threaded together, the band of reinforcing material helps protect the female end against failure due to hoop stresses and/or lateral stresses. In this regard, the reinforcing material is any material with a higher resistance to hoop stresses and/or lateral stresses than the material from which the pipe is made.
US09174394B2 Prepregs
The invention provides a prepreg comprising matrix and fibers, having deposited thereon a plurality of regions raised at least 5 micrometers relative to the surface of the matrix, a method of preparing such a prepreg, a method of curing a laminate of a plurality of such preprags and the cured laminate produced by such a method.
US09174393B2 Thermoplastic composite tubular structures and methods of fabricating the same
A method of fabricating a thermoplastic composite tubular structure provides a mandrel of a soluble, expandable material. The method overbraids the mandrel with a continuous fiber thermoplastic composite material to form an overbraided mandrel. The method installs the overbraided mandrel into a matched tooling assembly. The method heats in a heating apparatus the matched tooling assembly with the installed overbraided mandrel at a specified heating profile in order to consolidate the thermoplastic composite material and form a thermoplastic composite tubular structure. The method cools the matched tooling assembly with the formed thermoplastic composite tubular structure at a specified cooling profile. The method removes the formed thermoplastic composite tubular structure from the matched tooling assembly. The method solubilizes the mandrel to permanently remove the mandrel from the formed thermoplastic composite tubular structure.
US09174387B2 Microchannel reactors and fabrication processes
A method of loading material within a microchannel device, the method comprising: (a) loading particulates into a plurality of microchannels; and, (b) ultrasonically packing the particulates into the plurality of microchannels using a portable, compact ultrasonic densification unit.
US09174386B2 Butt-joining device comprising rolling means
A device for butt-joining a product made of strips or webs of material includes a soldering and cutting workstation and a rolling workstation. The butt-joining device includes apparatus for adjusting the relative position of a rolling component and the soldering and cutting zone to be rolled.
US09174381B1 Adjustable sealant dispensing system
A method and apparatus for applying a sealant material onto a surface. In one illustrative embodiment, an apparatus comprises a dispenser and an adjustment system associated with the dispenser. The dispenser is configured to receive a sealant material from a sealant source and dispense the sealant material through an output of the dispenser. The adjustment system is configured to change a configuration of the output.
US09174379B2 Retaining device for an extruder housing
The invention relates to an extruder which has an extruder housing. The housing has at least two housing parts and is provided with a delivery channel in order to extrude a medium, at least one screw conveyor being located in said channel. The extruder housing is releasably retained on a frame by means of a first retaining device and a shaft section of the screw conveyor is releasably connected to a drive device. According to the invention the housing parts are fixed relative to one another by means of a second retaining device and the extruder housing is connected to the frame and secured against displacement in the longitudinal direction of the extruder housing by means of a third retaining device. When the first and third retaining device) are released, the housing parts can be removed as a unit from the frame.
US09174378B2 Cosmetic textile fiber, method for obtaining it and use thereof
The present invention describes a polyamide textile fiber comprising conjugated nanoparticles homogeneously dispersed in the fiber, selected from polyethylene glycol-conjugated platinum nanoparticles, hyaluronic acid-conjugated gold nanoparticles and mixtures thereof. The invention also describes how to obtain it as well as its use in a cosmetic skin treatment as a system for the release of said conjugated nanoparticles.
US09174376B2 Thin film sheet fabrication method
A thin film sheet manufacturing apparatus includes: an extruder; a cooling water tank; a dehydration tank; a dehydrator; and a winder for winding the thin film sheet passing the dehydrator, wherein the dehydrator includes: a support frame extending back and forth; a transferring roller; upper and lower air blowing pipes; an air blower connected to the upper and lower air blowing pipes to supply air of high pressure to the upper and lower air blowing pipes; and support rollers disposed in front of the upper and lower air blowing pipes for supporting the thin film sheet to be supplied between the upper and lower air blowing pipes.
US09174375B2 Device and method for production of dental molded parts
The invention relates to a device for production of dental molded parts from a polymerizable plastic, with a flask (16) and with a heating device (40) for heating the polymerizable plastic in the flask (16). The heating device (40) is movable relative to the flask (16).
US09174374B2 Plunger assembly system
The invention relates to a plunger for feeding encapsulating material to a mould cavity, comprising at least one peripheral groove recessed into the cylinder casing of the plunger whereby a material part is placed in the groove which only partly fills the groove. The invention also related to a device for encapsulating electronic components mounted on a carrier. In addition, the invention also relates to a method for sealing a fitting of a plunger housing, which plunger is adapted to feed encapsulating material under pressure to a mould cavity.
US09174373B2 Hot channel distributor arrangement for a hot channel system
A hot channel distributor arrangement for a hot channel system that can particularly be heated during a heating phase, which is designed to supply plastic melt from a pour-in opening for at least two nozzle arrangements that can be moved relative to and independently of one another, each having at least one outlet opening in the region of a nozzle body, wherein at least one main distributor block having at least one main distributor arm is provided, said main distributor block being rotatable around a first rotational axis, wherein at least one auxiliary distributor block is arranged on the at least one main distributor block, said auxiliary distributor block forming at least one auxiliary distributor arm and being rotatable around a second rotational axis, wherein an angle between the main distributor block and the auxiliary distributor block is adjustable, wherein at least one of the nozzle arrangements is provided on each auxiliary distributor arm, and wherein the angle between the main distributor arm and auxiliary distributor arm changes due to thermal expansion at least during the heating phase.
US09174372B2 Shut off nozzle system and methods for making and using the same
In one embodiment, a tool, comprising: a tool stationary portion comprising a nozzle and a film gate; and a tool movable portion comprising a shut off pin opposite the nozzle and the film gate; wherein the shut off pin prevents polymer melt in the nozzle from leaking into a cavity of the tool after injection of polymer into the tool.
US09174371B2 Method and apparatus for moulding cannulae
The present invention provides apparatus and methods for injection molding polymeric cannulae from liquid polymeric materials. The method includes injecting pressurized liquid polymer into a mold cavity and into an overflow and forming a conduit by forcing pressurized working fluid through the solidifying liquid polymer into the overflow. The invention provides a mold for fluid-assisted injection molding articles from polymeric materials, the mold comprising at least two parts defining a cavity having a conduit portion incorporating a needle portion; a channel for liquid polymer ingress; a channel for pressurized fluid ingress; and an overflow in communication with the conduit portion. The mold may incorporate a plurality of cavities. Preferably the volume of the overflow is equal to or greater than the volume of the conduit portion. Preferably the mold incorporates a separating means for separating the overflow from a cannula portion of an article formed in the mold.
US09174369B2 Agitating feeder and compression molding machine
An agitating feeder is provided in a compression molding machine that includes at least one die having a die bore, an upper punch and a lower punch retained respectively above and below the die so as to be vertically slidable, and a compression mechanism for compressing and molding a powdery material filled in the die bore by the upper punch and the lower punch. The agitating feeder includes an agitating rotor for rotating to agitate the powdery material, a housing accommodating the agitating rotor, and a gas flow device for flowing gas in the housing.
US09174364B2 Pellet dosing apparatus
The pellet dosing apparatus comprises a hopper (10) pouring pellets (1) on a chute (30) which is vibrated by a vibrator device (3) to move the pellets (1) forward along the chute until dropping them from a discharging end (30a). A counting device (20) is arranged for counting the number of pellets (1) falling from said discharging end (30a) of the chute (30) into a dosing container (4). The pellets (1) are retained in the dosing container (4) by transferring means until their number reaches an amount corresponding to a pre-established dose determined by control means based on a counting signal received from said counting device (20). The control means then control the transferring means to transfer the pellets from the dosing container to an output duct.
US09174360B2 Wall saw and interchangable assemblies for wall saws
An interchangeable concrete cutting chain-saw cutting assembly (500) adapted for installation upon a drive assembly (112) in exchange for a removed, different type cutting head assembly. The chainsaw cutting assembly (500) includes a housing (703) that has fasteners that releasably attach the housing (703) to a drive assembly (112) in an installed configuration. A ratio transmission (525) has a plurality of interconnected rotatable members (533, 535), each rotatable member (533, 535) having a mounting shaft (641, 643) positioned at a fixed location on the housing (703) by a bearing assembly (640, 642). The driven member (533) has a receiver that interconnects with a driveshaft (372) of the drive assembly (112) in the installed configuration whereby the driven member (533) is rotated by the drive assembly (112). The cutting chain drive member (535) operatively interconnected with a drive sprocket (707) whereby rotation of the cutting chain drive member (535) rotates the drive sprocket (707). The chainsaw cutting assembly (500) is pivotable relative to the drive assembly (112).
US09174358B2 Method and apparatus for manufacturing slabs with veined effect
During the manufacture of slabs with a veined effect a liquid or powder coloring agent is deposited on the surface of a thin layer of starting mixture by means of at least one dispensing device (40) and the resultant mixture is supplied, falling freely, from one end of an extractor belt (30) forming the bottom of a mixture metering/distributor unit, following which the mixture is transferred, falling freely, onto a temporary molding support (14). This results in the production of slabs provided with veining extending through the entire thickness of the slabs and also visible along the whole edge of the slab, even after it has been machined.
US09174356B2 Method of wood preservation using expiration control
A method to preserve packed wood by expiration controlling consists of following steps: to clean/smooth surface of packed wood by a cleaner/by sanding said wood surface; to dry moisture of clean packed wood by heating in a high temperature oven; to assemble/manufacture a packed wood according to designed/required shape; to immunize wood preservatives by dipping in pool contains preservation liquid in certain dosage; to dry by draining the preservatives of packed wood that dipped in said preservation liquid pool; and to put security symbols on packed wood before shipping/distribution.
US09174355B2 Incorporation of metal nanoparticles into wood substrate and methods
Metal nanoparticles were incorporated into wood. Ionic liquids were used to expand the wood cell wall structure for nanoparticle incorporation into the cell wall structure. Nanoparticles of elemental gold or silver were found to be effective surface enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) imaging contrast or sensing agents. Nanoparticles of elemental iron were found to be efficient microwave absorbers and caused localized heating for disrupting the integrity of the lignocellulosic matrix. Controls suggest that the localized heating around the iron nanoparticles reduces losses of cellulose in the form of water, volatiles and CO2. The ionic liquid is needed during the incorporation process at room temperature. The use of small amounts of ionic liquid combined with the absence of an ionic liquid purification step and a lower energy and water use are expected to reduce costs in an up-scaled pretreatment process.
US09174353B2 Apparatus and process for cutting adhesive labels
A method and apparatus are provided for die cutting label stock comprising a facestock, an adhesive and optionally a liner to form labels where a liner of the linered pressure sensitive adhesive label stock may be a thin or ultrathin liner.
US09174352B2 Device for cutting food and multi-functional device for the kitchen
A device for cutting food, such as fruit and vegetables, comprising a cutting part having several blades and an actuation part, the parts being mounted, so that they can pivot counter to each other by means of a pivot bearing, and the actuation part is pressed against the cutting part in order to cut the food to be cut, and a multifunctional kitchen device comprising this device. The device may also have a cover part for that is affixed onto a collecting container for the cut food, whereby the lid part has an opening with a passage for the cut food. A pivot bearing can be accommodated in the opening.
US09174351B2 Electric shaver with imaging capability
System and method for improving the shaving experience by providing improved visibility of the skin shaving area. A digital camera is integrated with the electric shaver for close image capturing of shaving area, and displaying it on a display unit. The display unit can be integral part of the electric shaver casing, or housed in a separated device which receives the image via a communication channel. The communication channel can be wireless (using radio, audio or light) or wired, such as dedicated cabling or using powerline communication. A light source is used to better illuminate the shaving area. Video compression and digital image processing techniques are used for providing for improved shaving results. The wired communication medium can simultaneously be used also for carrying power from the electric shaver assembly to the display unit, or from the display unit to the electric shaver.
US09174345B2 Robot arm including force sensing apparatus
A robot arm including a force sensing apparatus capable of accurately sensing of a force in the axial direction of the robot arm during operation thereof, without being affected by a motion of the robot arm. The robot arm includes: a body that is elastically deformable and has a pipe form extending in an axial direction; an instrument connected to an operational end of the body; a cable that is connected to a terminal end of the instrument and controls an operation of the instrument; and a force sensing apparatus that is attached to a surface of the body and senses a force acting upon the body, wherein the cable at the terminal end of the instrument is configured to move along a direction perpendicular to the axial direction of the body.
US09174344B2 Method and apparatus for haptic control
The present invention provides remote interfacing utilizing haptic technology. In a first aspect there is provided a haptic grasping interface comprising a plurality of finger interaction points, with actuators connected at one end to an actuator control mechanism. The mechanism is mounted remotely from the grasping interface, inverse to the finger interaction points, for manipulation of these points. The grasping points comprise pulleys which route the actuators through a cable tension and transmission system. A second aspect provides haptic augmentation to an operator, which indicates to the operator the state of a control input to a controlled device. A third aspect provides a means of simulating motion where haptic feedback is provided to a user in correspondence with the movement of the user within a pod environment.
US09174343B2 Picking system and picking method
A picking system enables a user to easily know when an article that has been placed is different from an article originally scheduled to be placed in a particular position. The picking system includes a picking robot, an ID reader, an encoder, a comparing unit, and a terminal screen. The picking robot picks a workpiece from a first predetermined position and places the article in a second predetermined position. The ID reader acquires identification information of the workpiece picked by the picking robot. The comparing unit compares the identification information acquired by the ID reader with identification information of a workpiece scheduled to be picked. The terminal screen indicates, based on a result of the comparison executed by the comparing unit, a placement position of a workpiece whose identification information does not match the identification information of the workpiece scheduled to be picked.
US09174341B2 Working device and method
A screwing device (1) and a screwing method use a multi-member (12, 13, 14, 15) robot (6) having a driven rotational axis. The robot (6), on its last member (12), carries a rotational device (7) with a rotational tool (8). The rotational device is driven independently and is provided and designed for rapidly screwing a rotating part (3) on or off. The screwing tightening or untightening of the rotating part (3) is performed by the robot (6) and in particular by the robot end member (12).
US09174336B2 Panel unload table
An apparatus and methods for unloading panels. One example method includes receiving the panel on a table top. The panel is positioned on the table top to allow a worker to make an external surface inspection. The method further includes rotating a table flap extending from the table top from a first position to a second position to allow a worker access to a panel fixture in a stowed position. The method further includes moving the panel fixture from the stowed position to a load position and receiving the panel on the panel fixture. The panel is positioned on the panel fixture to engage a load sensor. In response to the load sensor sensing the panel on the panel fixture, the method further includes rotating the panel fixture from the load position to an unload position.
US09174334B2 Handle for screwdriver
A handle for a screwdriver including a body having a first open end and a second open end and also provides an intermediate member which connects the one end to the other end. A space is defined in the body and located between the first and second open ends such that space communicates with the first and second open ends. Multiple first connection portions are formed in inside of the first open end and connected with a stop formed in inside of the space.
US09174328B2 Power tool having a spindle lock
A spindle lock (10) includes a detent arrangement including springs (25) acting on projections (30), each projection engaging one of a pair of recesses (40, 41) to control and buffer the rotation of a spindle (13) and to delay the engagement of locking elements (26a, 26b). A compact, reliable mechanism with a high degree of modularity is achieved by providing the recesses in an inner rotor (31) and the springs and projections in an outer rotor (18) that extends about the inner rotor.
US09174326B2 Arrangement for floor grinding
An arrangement for floor grinding with a floor conditioning device. A tool instrument is used in the floor conditioning device by rotating the floor conditioning device. The instrument is an essentially porous washing, polishing, waxing disk for carrying out basic functions of the floor conditioning device. A grinding instrument is removably coupled in connection with the tool instrument. A fastener couples the grinding instrument with the tool instrument by a fastening frame supported on a front surface of the tool instrument and by an auxiliary frame supported on a back surface of the tool instrument.
US09174325B2 Methods of forming abrasive articles
An abrasive article, comprising a polycrystalline material comprising abrasive grains and a filler material having an average negative coefficient of thermal expansion (CTE) within a range of temperatures between about 70 K to about 1500 K. A method of forming an abrasive article, comprising preparing an abrasive material, preparing a filler material having an average negative coefficient of thermal expansion (CTE) within a range of temperatures between about 150 K to about 1500 K, and forming a polycrystalline material comprising grains of the abrasive material and the filler material.
US09174323B2 Combinatorial tool for mechanically-assisted surface polishing and cleaning
Polishing and cleaning techniques are combinatorially processed and evaluated. A polishing system can include a reactor assembly having multiple reaction chambers, with at least a reaction chamber including a rotatable polishing head, slurry and chemical distribution, chemical and water rinse, and slurry and fluid removal. Different downward forces can be applied to the polishing heads for evaluating optimum process conditions. Channels in the polishing pads can redistribute slurry and chemical to the polishing area.
US09174321B2 Lens blocking and deblocking method and related device
A method of deblocking a lens component (1) fixed on a thermoplastic block (2) of an ophthalmic lens block comprising the steps of: a) applying a pushing strain on the surface (14) of the lens component fixed on the thermoplastic block; b) providing a warm gas flow at the interface between the lens component (1) and the thermoplastic block; and maintaining the pushing strain during the step of providing the warm gas flow at the interface between the lens component and the thermoplastic block, wherein the stress applied to obtain the pushing strain of step a) is greater or equal to 0.1 MPa and/or less or equal to 1 Mpa, and wherein the temperature of the warm gas flow of step b) is greater or equal to 30° and/or less or equal to 70° C.
US09174319B2 Illuminated tool rest for lathe
A lathe tool rest including a light source for improving the illumination of the workpiece is described. The tool rest includes a vertical post having an upper end, a horizontal tool arm attached to the upper end of the post, and an LED illumination strip attached to the front side of the tool arm. The front side of the tool arm preferably includes a horizontal recess With the LED illumination strip being mounted within the recess.
US09174318B2 Machine tool and control method for the same
A machine tool includes a rotational drive unit that rotationally drives a main spindle to which a tool is attached, a moving unit that relatively moves the tool with respect to the workpiece, and a rotational speed adjustment unit that adjusts a rotational speed of the main spindle by controlling the rotational drive unit. The machine tool also includes a machining start determination unit that determines that machining of the workpiece by the tool is started with the rotational drive unit rotationally driving the main spindle. The rotational speed adjustment unit exponentially raises the rotational speed of the main spindle after reducing the rotational speed to a predetermined rotational speed set in advance, on condition that the machining start determination unit determines that the machining is started, and causes the rotational speed of the main spindle to reach a value of the rotational speed before being reduced.
US09174315B2 Component mounting method and component mounting apparatus
In a component mounting method and apparatus capable of mounting components on a board having a non-planar component mounting surface, a board holding table in a board holding device is turned based on board holding device information and board information to direct a normal line to a mounting portion on the non-planar component mounting surface in the vertical direction. Thus, after being picked up and moved by a component loading device onto the normal line to the mounting portion, a component can be mounted through a movement of the component loading device in the vertical direction only. Further, compensation amounts for the position of the mounting portion are calculated based on a turn amount, the board holding device information and the board information, and a compensated mounting position is calculated from the compensation amounts and the board information accurately in the horizontal and vertical directions.
US09174313B2 Method for repairing and improving structural integrity of storage tanks
In some implementations a defect perimeter sealing system includes a plurality of perimeter base components that are arranged around a defect of a tank, where all of a top of the perimeter base components are encompassed or spanned by compression panels, in which the plurality of perimeter base components and the compression panels define a fill zone between the plurality of perimeter base components and the compression panels and that also includes an injected material in the fill zone.
US09174312B2 Methods for the repair of gas turbine engine components using additive manufacturing techniques
In accordance with an exemplary embodiment, a method for repairing a damaged metallic component using additive manufacturing techniques includes separating a damaged portion of the damaged metallic component from an undamaged portion of the damaged metallic component, measuring the undamaged portion to determine the dimensions of the removed damaged portion, fabricating a replacement portion using additive manufacturing techniques in accordance with the determined dimensions of the removed damaged portion, and joining the replacement portion with the undamaged portion of the damaged metallic component to form a repaired metallic component.
US09174311B2 Welding workbench assembly with wraparound dual state barriers
A welding workbench assembly comprises a base. The welding workbench assembly further comprises a first wraparound barrier comprising at least three panels, including a first panel, a second panel, and a third panel. The second panel is adjacent to the first panel at a first end of the first panel and the third panel is adjacent to the first panel at a second end of the first panel. The welding workbench assembly further comprises a second wraparound barrier comprising at least three panels, including a fourth panel, a fifth panel, and a sixth panel. The fifth panel is adjacent to the fourth panel at a first end of the fourth panel and the sixth panel is adjacent to the fourth panel at a second end of the fourth panel.
US09174310B2 Boric acid free flux
The invention described herein pertains generally to boric acid free flux composition wherein in some embodiments, a phthalocyanine pigment is used to effect a color change at activation temperature.
US09174308B2 Laser scoring of metal/polymer structures
A method of scoring a multi-layer film structure, wherein the multi-layer film structure comprises a metal layer and polymer layer bonded to each other, the method comprises using a single laser beam incident to the polymer layer to produce a score line in the polymer layer, wherein the laser energy is absorbed only by the metal layer.
US09174307B2 Substrate cutting apparatus and method for cutting substrate using the same
A substrate cutting apparatus includes a stage configured to support a substrate, a first laser generator configured to emit a first laser beam toward the substrate, the first laser beam being a short-pulse laser beam, and a beam swing unit disposed on a beam path of the first laser beam, the beam swing unit being configured to swing the first laser beam in a predetermined light irradiating section on the substrate, the light irradiating section on the substrate including at least one of a curved line section and a straight line section.
US09174304B2 Laser decontamination device
The laser decontamination device includes: a laser oscillator; a scanning device provided with an XY axis scanner and a Z axis scanner to condense the laser beam emitted from the laser oscillator onto the surface of the contaminated article without the intervention of any compound lens such as an f θ lens so as to optically scan the surface; and a surface shape measuring device to measure the surface shape of the contaminated article, the Z axis scanner being provided with a focus position controlling section to automatically adjust a focus position in accordance with an irradiation position such that a focus of the laser beam comes on the surface of the contaminated article based on a shape data obtained at the surface shape measuring device.
US09174299B2 Apparatus and method for portable calibration of electrofusion controllers
The method includes providing a portable self-contained calibration device to an electrofusion controller. The calibration device includes internal or external dummy loads to simulate real fittings to be fused and instructs the electrofusion controller to apply electricity to these dummy load. Then, the calibration device uses a measurement sub-system to measure a pre-determined parameter. A microcontroller sub-system determines if there is a difference between the measured values and the expected values. If there is a difference, the calibration device adjusts the electrofusion controller's memory. The calibration device repeats the measurement with a second independent measurement device to ensure accuracy.
US09174298B2 Dissimilar metal joining method for magnesium alloy and steel
[Object] To provide a joining method for dissimilar metals which are magnesium alloy and steel and difficult to be metallurgically directly joined to each other while oxide film is present at a joining surface.[Solving Means] In order to join magnesium alloy material 1 and steel plate 2 to each other, a galvanized steel plate to which Zn—Al—Mg alloy plating (a third material) is applied is used as the steel plate 2. When joining is made, ternary eutectic melting of Al—Mg—Zn is caused, so that it is discharged together with oxide film 1f and impurities from the joining interface while Al—Mg intermetallic compound such as Al3Mg2 and Fe—Al intermetallic compound such as FeAl3 are formed, thereby joining the newly generated surfaces of the magnesium alloy material 1 and the steel plate 2 to each other through a compound layer 3 containing these intermetallic compounds.
US09174297B2 Resistance welding a porous metal layer to a metal substrate
An apparatus and method are provided for manufacturing an orthopedic prosthesis by resistance welding a porous metal layer of the orthopedic prosthesis onto an underlying metal substrate of the orthopedic prosthesis. The resistance welding process involves directing an electrical current through the porous layer and the substrate, which dissipates as heat to cause softening and/or melting of the materials, especially along the interface between the porous layer and the substrate. The softened and/or melted materials undergo metallurgical bonding at points of contact between the porous layer and the substrate to fixedly secure the porous layer onto the substrate.
US09174285B2 Positioning sleeve assembly adapted for engaging with different tool parts
A positioning sleeve assembly adapted for engaging with drill bit holder or screwdriver bit is provided with a sleeve and an engaging device. The engaging device includes a drive shaft at one end and an inserting hole at another end. The engaging device is inserted in the sleeve with the drive shaft located one end of the sleeve, and the inserting hole at the other end of the sleeve. The inserting hole at one end of the engaging device is suitable for both engaging with a drill bit holder and a screwdriver bit, so that a single positioning sleeve assembly of the present invention is capable of selectively connecting drill bit and screwdriver bit.
US09174284B2 Rotary burring tool
A texturizing tool that creates concentric, circular patterns of burrs in the surface of a workpiece by graving, planning or plowing, curved stop-grooves each with a burr of the displaced material which remains securely attached to the workpiece. Toothed cylindrical saws having angled slots for a drive pin are concentrically assembled. When forced against the workpiece, each saw rotates some few degrees causing the teeth to cut the stop-grooves and making the burrs. The drive pin and a return spring are carried in a capped outer cylindrical actuator which the drive pin also passes through. The concentric saw's cutting teeth cut in opposite directions to cancel out the cutting forces on the workpiece. Articles so texturized may be used in structural adhesive bonding, and for embedment of texturized articles such as fasteners, washers, plates and the like, into molded plastic and composite structures while being molded.
US09174274B2 Low mass multi-piece sound dampened article
A multi-piece sound dampened brake rotor comprises a relatively light weight hub with a hub flange and a heavier rotor body with a sound damping insert and a rotor body flange. The hub and rotor body are attached at their flanges. The flanges may be mechanically attached such as with bolts. Or the hub and rotor may be attached by casting the hub of a lower melting metal alloy against the rotor body and rotor body flange. The rotor body may have vanes for air cooling and a sound damping insert may be incased in either or both body portions sandwiching the vanes.
US09174273B2 Method of and apparatus for controlling molten metal surface in mold of continuous-casting machine and continuous-casting machine including the apparatus
A method of and an apparatus for controlling a molten metal surface in a mold that are effective to various disturbances are provided. The method and the apparatus for controlling a molten metal surface level in a mold according to the present invention perform the following operations of: measuring the molten metal surface level in the mold of a continuous-casting machine; changing a reference position of oscillation of the mold based on the difference between a molten metal surface setting value set in advance as a desired value of the molten metal surface and a measured value of the molten metal surface level; and making the reference position of oscillation follow molten metal surface fluctuations.
US09174271B2 Casting system for investment casting process
A casting system includes a core and a shell positioned relative to the core. A barrier coating is applied on at least one of the core and the shell, and may be applied to both the core and the shell. The barrier coating limits reaction between the casting system and a casting alloy.
US09174270B2 Casting mold set
The mold set is constructed with a cope, a drag, cheeks, and a core. In a case where the mold set is closed before molten metal is fed, a first clearance between a first mold (cope) that is located above a casting shape forming part of the core and the casting shape forming part is smaller than a second clearance between an upper surface of a core print of the core and a second mold (cheek) that is opposed to the upper surface.
US09174267B2 Wire looping tool
An improved arts and crafts tool designed to loop and cut wire in a single fluid motion at any desired location along the length of the wire. The tool comprises a pair of arms each arm terminating in a soft-cover handle adapted to be gripped by a user. The upper portions of the arms have looping and cutting members for looping and cutting wire at a desired length. Disposed within one of the cutting members is an ejection aperture which harmlessly directs cut sections of waste wire away from a user and enables the tool to cut sections of wires at any desirable point.
US09174265B2 Rechargeable battery and manufacturing method of the same
A rechargeable battery having an electrode assembly formed by depositing/spiral-winding an positive electrode and a negative electrode on respective surfaces of a separator; a can including a pipe having a side seam portion to enclose the electrode assembly and a bottom plate bonded to a first opening of the pipe by a bottom seam portion to close and seal the first opening and facing an end portion of the electrode assembly; and a cap assembly bonded to a second opening of the pipe formed at the other side of the bottom plate to close and seal the second opening.
US09174262B2 Can manufacture
A method and apparatus are disclosed which are suitable for use in the manufacture of two-piece metal containers. In particular, a way of making cups from metal sheet is disclosed using a combination of stretching and drawing operations. The resulting cups have the advantage of having a base thickness that is thinner relative to the ingoing gauge of the metal sheet.
US09174261B2 Press working apparatus
A press working apparatus for processing a heated workpiece is provided with a base part which is relatively movable so as to advance and retreat with respect to the workpiece, a pad provided on the base part and configured to hold the workpiece, a working tool provided on the base part to pass through the pad and adapted to process the workpiece, and a support member configured to movably support the working tool in a direction perpendicular to an advance and retreat direction of the base part.
US09174260B2 Hot press product and method of forming the same
Provided is a method of forming a hot press product, the method including: a positioning and placing step of positioning a material, which is heated, and placing the material on a mold through engagement between a positioning pin provided to the mold and a positioning hole provided in the material; and a pressing and hole expanding step of performing press forming on the material through use of the mold, and expanding the positioning hole through bulging of a peripheral part of the positioning hole of the material) when the press forming is performed.
US09174258B2 Apparatus and process for forming profiles with a variable height by means of cold rolling
A cold roll forming apparatus for forming a variable profile. The apparatus comprises a forming unit having a least one adjustment stand which includes a roll stand with a pair of rollers between which the sheet metal strip is passed through along its longitudinal direction (X), wherein the roll stand is translationally and rotationally displaceable during the cold roll forming with at least one translatory degree of freedom and one rotary degree of freedom being independent from each other.
US09174257B2 Stretch-bending straightener
The invention relates to a method and stretch-bending straightener for straightening metal strips (1) by stretch-bending, comprising a plurality of straightening rolls (5a, 6a, 7a, 8a) which are arranged behind one another in the strip flow direction (D) and spaced from one another in the strip flow direction (D), wherein the strip (1) subject to tensile stress below the limit of elasticity is alternately bent around the straightening rolls (5a, 6a, 7a, 8a), undergoing plastic elongation, wherein a deflecting roll (5b, 6b, 7b) is arranged upstream of one or more straightening rolls (5a, 6a, 7a), respectively, wherein said straightening rolls can be adjusted relative to the strip (1) and wherein said deflecting roll has a larger diameter than the respective downstream straightening roll. Said method and said system are characterized in that, in order to vary the immersion depth, the straightening rolls (5a, 6a, 7a) can be adjusted relative to the associated deflecting roll (5b, 6b, 7a) such that the free strip length (F) between the nm-off point (9) of the strip (1) from the deflecting roll to the run-on point (10) of the strip (1) onto the associated straightening roll does not exceed a predefined maximum value, above which longitudinal undulations of the strip form. The system is preferably designed such that, as the immersion depth and/or the angle of contact are varied, the free strip length never exceeds the maximum value over the entire adjusting range.
US09174254B2 Adjustable profile plate assembly for use with an air make-up system
An adjustable profile plate assembly for use with an air make-up system. According to an exemplary embodiment, the adjustable profile plate assembly includes a slidable profile plate, a scissor-type linkage mechanism attached to the profile plate, and an actuator attached to the linkage mechanism for driving the profile plate back and forth in a widthwise direction B. The adjustable profile plate assembly may use a feedback control loop that uses one or more operational parameters, such as the operational state of fans that draw air into the system, in order to control the actuator.
US09174253B2 Purge nozzle unit, purge apparatus and load port
A purge nozzle unit 1 includes a nozzle main body 2 including a trunk 41 and a collar section 8 protruding outward from the trunk 41 and a holder 3 including a side wall 31 that is in slidable contact with an outward face of the collar section 8 and a bottom wall 33 having a through hole 32 with which an outward face of the trunk 41 is in slidable contact and is configured such that a vent 30 in communication with the outside is formed in the holder 3 and the nozzle main body 2 is vertically moved relative to the holder 3 by regulating a pressure in a pressure-regulated space S formed between the nozzle main body 2 and the holder 3 and in communication with the vent 30.
US09174251B2 Cleaning process for a test device, computer program product for performing such a process, and test device
A cleaning process is provided for a test apparatus that has a switch, external connections and internal volumes that can come into contact with a fluid from a filter to be tested or a container to be tested. The cleaning process includes selecting one or more internal volumes to be cleaned, cleaning the selected internal volumes with a cleaning fluid by a corresponding switching of the switch, at least partially draining the cleaning fluid left in the selected internal volumes after cleaning, and flushing the selected internal volumes with a flushing fluid different from the cleaning fluid. Also provided are a computer program product for performing the cleaning process, a cleaning apparatus, and a test apparatus for testing filters and containers.
US09174249B2 Ultrasonic cleaning method and apparatus therefore
Ultrasonic cleaning apparatuses and methods of cleaning substantially planar articles. An apparatus comprises (i) a substantially circular tank; (ii) a plurality of cleaning fluid inlets for delivering a cleaning fluid to the tank; (iii) an intermediate support for receiving an article to be cleaned; and (iv) an ultrasonic generator coupled to the tank for generating ultrasonic waves in the tank and cleaning fluid received therein. The apparatus is configured to remove particles from a substantially planar article and have them carried by flow of cleaning fluid away from the article and out of the tank. Using such an apparatus, a cleaning method comprises introducing a substantially planar article to be cleaned into the tank; introducing a cleaning fluid into the tank through the plurality of cleaning fluid inlets; and exciting the cleaning fluid with ultrasonic waves.
US09174244B2 System and apparatus for separating and orienting sample containers
A system and apparatus for separating/sorting and orienting/aligning tubes and/or vials or other sample containers.
US09174240B1 Material sorter apparatus
A material sorter apparatus includes a drum mounted for rotation and a coaxial trommel mounted within the drum. Raw material is applied to the trommel. Rotational movement of the drum imparts expulsion of large material in the raw material from the trommel out of the device. The rotational movement of the drum imparts filtration of the raw material through the trommel into the drum as fine material. The drum is fluid impervious and is formed with an inwardly-directed lip. The trommel and drum are angled with respect to a horizontal. A wash is directed into the drum to wash the raw and fine material in the trommel and drum. The drum is mounted for pivotal movement to a stand.
US09174231B2 Sprayer fluid supply with collapsible liner
A fluid supply for a liquid sprayer includes a collapsible liner for holding the liquid; a cup for supporting the collapsible liner; a lid for connecting to the cup; and an air relief valve. The collapsible liner is secured relative to the lid and the cup. The lid includes an opening for connecting the lid to the pump.
US09174228B2 Kitchen sink sprayer
A kitchen sink sprayer, comprising a body enclosed in an outer enclosure for being gripped and provided with a coupling to a flexible water supply hose connected to a faucet for adjusting the flow-rate between a closed position and an open position, the body comprising a rod which has, at one end, a tip that is adapted to open selectively the access of the water to a duct for forming a central jet and to ducts for forming a peripheral jet, and is provided with means for actuation by the user, the means for actuating the rod having a tab which is connected directly to the rod in an intermediate position of the rod and protrudes from the enclosure of the sprayer, at its lateral surface, by an extent that is sufficient for contact grip by the user when it is necessary to actuate the rod in order to move it from one of its selection positions to the other and vice versa.
US09174217B2 Device and method of amplifying nucleic acids by using oil layer comprising exothermal particles
The disclosure describes example devices and methods for amplifying nucleic acids by using an oil layer including exothermal particles, forming an emulsion using the oil layer including exothermal particles, and performing a nucleic acids amplification reaction in the emulsion. The nucleic acids amplification reaction may be effectively performed even with a small amount of a sample by maximizing nucleic acids amplification efficiency, reducing reaction time, and improving controls to be convenient.
US09174216B2 System for capturing and analyzing cells
A system and method for capturing and analyzing cells comprising: a fluid delivery module; a reservoir configured to receive a biological sample including a target cell population and at least one fluid from the fluid delivery module; a manifold configured to receive and distribute the biological sample and at least one fluid from the reservoir into a cell capture device; a waste chamber configured to couple to the manifold; and a pump configured to couple to the waste chamber. In embodiments of the system configured to promote further purification of captured cells, the system can further comprise a magnet that enables further separation of captured cells from undesired sample materials. The system can additionally further comprise a heater configured to heat at least one fluid and/or biological sample, and a cell capture device configured to couple to the manifold, in order to facilitate capture of the target cell population.
US09174215B2 Phaseguide patterns for liquid manipulation
The present invention relates to phaseguide patterns for use in fluid systems such as channels, chambers, and flow through cells. In order to effectively control filling and/or emptying of fluidic chambers and channels, techniques for a controlled overflowing of phaseguides are proposed. In addition, techniques of confined liquid patterning in a larger fluidic structure, including approaches for patterning overflow structures and the specific shape of phaseguides, are provided. The invention also proposes techniques to effectively rotate the advancement of a liquid/air meniscus over a certain angle. In particular, a phaseguide pattern for guiding a flow of a liquid contained within a compartment is provided, wherein an overflow of the phaseguide by a moving liquid phase is controlled by a local change in capillary force along the phaseguide, wherein said overflow by the liquid over the phaseguide is provoked at the position of the local change in capillary force.
US09174212B2 System and method for particle filtration
Embodiments of the present disclosure feature a filtration system comprising a filtration module for particle filtration and methods of using the device for the isolation of particles (e.g., viable cells). Advantageously, embodiments of the device provide for the high throughput filtration of large volumes of sample while preserving cell viability and providing high yields.
US09174210B2 Nucleic acid purification
A self-contained apparatus for isolating nucleic acid, cell lysates and cell suspensions from unprocessed samples apparatus, to be used with an instrument, includes at least one input, and: (i) a macrofluidic component, including a chamber for receiving an unprocessed sample from a collection device and at least one filled liquid purification reagent storage reservoir; and (ii) a microfluidic component in communication with the macrofluidic component through at least one microfluidic element, the microfluidic component further comprising at least one nucleic acid purification matrix; and (iii) at least one interface port to a drive mechanism on the instrument for driving said liquid purification reagent, through the microfluidic element and the nucleic acid purification matrix, wherein the only inputs to the apparatus are through the chamber and the interface port to the drive mechanism.
US09174206B2 Catalysts having increased stability
Bulk catalysts that include a Group VI metal, a Group VIII metal, and at least 10-60% of an organic compound based component are formed. The bulk catalysts have increased stability through the use of a stabilizer in the organic compound based component, the use of an improved gas phase sulfidation, or a combination thereof. The bulk catalysts are suitable for hydroprocessing of hydrocarbon feeds.
US09174205B2 Production of catalytically active activated carbons
The invention is directed to a method for preparing catalytically active activated carbon, to catalytically active activate carbon obtainable by the method, and to the use of the catalytically active activated carbon. The method of the invention method comprises the steps of: i) mixing charcoal with one or more organic nitrogen-containing compounds, said nitrogen-containing compounds comprising, next to a first nitrogen atom, at least two or more further heteroatoms selected from the group consisting of nitrogen and oxygen, wherein said further heteroatoms have a lone pair; ii) drying the mixture obtained in step i); iii) activating the dried mixture using steam, thereby producing catalytically active activated carbon.
US09174204B2 Catalyst based on zeolite for producing olefins and for oligomerizing olefins
The invention relates to a novel catalyst based on zeolite, the production of that catalyst, and the use of the catalyst in a method for producing lower olefins from oxygenates and for oligomerizing olefins. The novel catalyst has a SiO2/Al2O3 weight ratio of 2 to 9, a BET surface of 250 to 500 m2/g, and an Na content under 200 ppm. The catalyst includes a crystalline alumosilicate zeolite and a binder. The catalyst is characterized in that the ratio of the peak heights of its IR absorption bands v=3610 cm−1±20 cm−1/v=3680 cm−1±20 cm−1 is greater than 1.8.
US09174201B2 Method for the continuous production of an amine using an aluminum—copper catalyst
Process for the continuous preparation of an amine by reaction of a primary or secondary alcohol, aldehyde and/or ketone with hydrogen and a nitrogen compound selected from the group consisting of ammonia, primary and secondary amines at a temperature in the range from 60 to 300° C. in the presence of a catalyst comprising copper oxide and aluminum oxide, wherein the reaction takes place in the gas phase and the catalytically active composition of the catalyst before reduction with hydrogen comprisesfrom 20 to 75% by weight of aluminum oxide (Al2O3),from 20 to 75% by weight of oxygen-comprising compounds of copper, calculated as CuO,from 0 to 2% by weight of oxygen-comprising compounds of sodium, calculated as Na2O, andless than 5% by weight of oxygen-comprising compounds of nickel, calculated as NiO, and the shaped catalyst body has a pellet shape having a diameter in the range from 1 to 4 mm and a height in the range from 1 to 4 mm.
US09174197B2 Fluid filtration medium
A method of forming a treated granulized zeolite product includes applying a cationic surfactant to a granulized zeolite material, such that an amount applied to the granulized zeolite material covers at least 20 percent of the ECEC sites of the granulized zeolite material, granulizing a zeolite material to produce the granulized zeolite material, the zeolite material having a d50 in a range of 300 to 30 micron size.
US09174196B2 Synthesis method for magnetite and birnessite aggregate-form mixture
The present invention relates to a magnetite-birnessite mixture, to a synthesis method therefor, and to a water-treatment method using the same. The magnetite-birnessite mixture synthesis method according to the present invention includes: a first synthesis step in which magnetite is synthesized; a second synthesis step in which manganese is made to adsorb onto the surface of the magnetite by supplying manganese while maintaining a basic state in the presence of the magnetite, and then synthesizing birnessite on the surface of the magnetite by supplying an oxidizing agent and sodium, thereby synthesizing a mixture in which magnetite and birnessite are bound together; and a purification step in which the mixture of magnetite and birnessite is purified.
US09174195B2 Adsorbent for canister, and canister
To obtain adsorbent (10), meltable core which melts away during baking and binder are added to powdery activated carbon having microscopic pore whose size is less than 100 nm together with water and mixed together, then this mixture is molded into hollow cylindrical shape whose outside diameter is 4˜6 mm and baked. Although macroscopic pore whose side is 100 nm or more is formed by the meltable core, proportion of volume of the macroscopic pore to volume of the microscopic pore is adjusted to 65%˜150%. The adsorbent (10) has shape in cross section formed from cylindrical wall (10A) and cross-shaped radial wall (10B), and thickness of each part is within a range of 0.6˜3 mm. The adsorbent (10) of the present invention can satisfy adsorbing/desorbing performance of fuel vapor, flow resistance as a canister and strength of the adsorbent at the same time.
US09174191B2 Optical networks
An optical network (10) comprising an optical network element (12) comprising a first optical transmitter (14), a first controller (16), an optical receiver (18), a second optical transmitter (22), a second controller (24) and optical receiver apparatus (26). Said first controller is arranged to control said first optical transmitter to generate and transmit a first optical signal in response no second optical signal being detected. Said first controller is arranged to iteratively generate and transmit said first optical signal at different wavelengths of a plurality of wavelengths until said second optical signal is detected, and is further arranged to subsequently maintain generation and transmission of said first optical signal at said wavelength at which said second optical signal is detected. Said second controller is arranged to control said second optical transmitter to generate and transmit said second optical signal following detection of said first optical signal by said optical receiver apparatus.
US09174179B2 Multi-station liquid dispensing apparatus with automatic selection of proper flow rate
A multi-station liquid mixing and dispensing apparatus. The apparatus includes a housing that defines a first pocket for supporting a first container, a second pocket for supporting a second container, and a third pocket disposed vertically above at least one of the first pocket and the second pocket. The apparatus also includes a first door pivotably coupled to the housing and enclosing the first pocket, and a second door pivotably coupled to the housing and enclosing the second pocket. The apparatus also includes a valve coupled to the housing to control flow of chemical concentrate to at least one of the first container and the second container.
US09174175B2 Azide crosslinked and physically crosslinked polymers for membrane separation
The present invention appreciates that compounds comprising ester linkages and nitrogen-containing moieties that are at least divalent (e.g., urea, urethane, amide, etc.) can be crosslinked with azides to form membranes that are resistant to CO2 plasticization, that are selective for acid gases relative to nonpolar gases such as hydrocarbons, and that have high acid gas flux characteristics. The resultant membranes have stable structure and stable separation properties at higher temperatures and pressures. The membranes are compatible with many industrial processes in which polar gases are separated from nopolar gases. In an exemplary mode of practice, the membranes can be used to separate acid gases from the hydrocarbon gases in natural or non-acid gas components of flue gas mixtures (e.g., N2, O2, etc.).
US09174170B2 Exhaust gas treating catalyst and exhaust gas purification apparatus using the same
An exhaust gas treating catalyst further improved in denitrification performance is provided. It is an exhaust gas treating catalyst containing a complex oxide represented by the general formula ABO3, where the A-site is composed of a lanthanoid (La) and barium (Ba), and the B-site is composed of iron (Fe), niobium (Nb) and palladium (Pd).
US09174164B2 Apparatus for dehumidifying gas and methods of use
An apparatus for dehumidifying gas is provided which converts humid gas into dehumidified gas using a hydrophilic membrane that includes a superabsorbent polymer. A sub-dew point cooling tower, sub-dew point evaporative cooler and sub-dew point water harvesting system which utilize the apparatus for dehumidifying gas are also provided.
US09174163B2 Hydrocarbon trap and method for manufacture
A hydrocarbon (HC) trap positioned in an intake conduit of an engine is provided. The HC trap includes a stack of consecutively layered polymeric sheets with at least a portion of the sheets impregnated with a HC vapor adsorption/desorption material, the stack of sheets extending from a first exterior surface to a second exterior surface.
US09174156B2 System for determining force imparted by a filter in a variable force environment and related methods of use
A control system for a variable flow filtration system that is configured for receiving an operating condition of a variable speed impeller of the variable flow filtration system; determining a threshold filter force associated with the received operating condition to determine an increased threshold filter force proportionally to increases in the received operating condition; receiving one or more real-time environmental conditions of the variable flow filtration system; modifying the determined threshold filter force based on the received one or more real-time environmental conditions; receiving a real-time filter force imparted by a filter of the variable flow filtration system on a load cell or other filtration system component, the filter force being imparted by a flow of gas or fluid driven by the variable speed impeller; comparing the received real-time filter force to the modified determined threshold filter force; and generating a filter status notification based on the comparison.
US09174148B2 Launder channel cover with independently openable panel members
A cover arrangement is provided for a launder channel of a clarifier tank. The cover arrangement includes at least one mounting section coupled to the clarifier tank near the launder channel. A plurality of cover panel members are provided, each panel member having a surface and two stiffening flanges located on opposing lateral edges of the surface, where each of the cover panel members further includes a light seal either one of attached to or attached near one of the stiffening flanges. The cover arrangement includes arranging the plurality of cover panels around the clarifier tank over the launder channel such that the light seal attached to or near the outer surface of the stiffening flange of a first panel member among the plurality of panel members abuts against a stiffening flange of an adjacent second panel member among the plurality of panel members.
US09174147B2 Device and method for removing gas from a mixture of biomaterials
A device and method for removing gas from a mixture of biomaterials includes a vacuum pump movably positioned within a cavity of a syringe at least partially defining a vacuum chamber. The vacuum pump has a pump body with proximal and distal portions, a stopper connected to the distal portion, and a flow channel. The stopper includes an inlet, and the pump body includes a port. The flow channel extends from the inlet to the port and is in fluid communication with the vacuum chamber. A first valve is positioned within the flow channel between the inlet and the port. The first valve is operable to open and close the flow channel for selectively connecting a vacuum to the vacuum chamber such that gas is withdrawn from mixture of biomaterials within the vacuum chamber.
US09174145B2 Bag for a circuit of a biological liquid treatment installation
The invention concerns a bag comprising a first conduit (13J), a second conduit (13K), the first section (13J1) of the first conduit (13J) and the first section (13K1) of the second conduit (13K) being opposite; a third conduit (13L) linking said first respective ends (13J2, 13K2) of said first respective sections (13J1, 13K1); a fourth conduit (13M) linking said second respective ends (13J3, 13K3) of said first respective sections (13J1, 13K1); a fifth conduit (13N) linking both said second end (13J3) of said first section (13J1) and said first end (13M1) of said fourth conduit (13M), and said fifth conduit (13N) linking both said first end (13K2) and said second end (13L2) of said third conduit (13L); said first conduit (13J) and said second conduit (13K) each being connected to a chromatography column connector (11M).
US09174144B2 Low profile cryopump
Faster cool down time is achieved in a low profile cryopump by having heat transferred directly from the inlet louver to the first stage heat station through one or more tapered thermal busses, and by obviating the need of a thermal shield over the second stage cylinder of the expander by having second stage cryopanels that form a nested tent like structure, at least one of which, extends over the cylinder.
US09174141B2 Self-sealing balloon and method of manufacture
A self-sealing balloon comprising a tubular balloon neck segment extending from an opening of a balloon gas retaining expansion cavity. A bead of adhesive material is applied in a loop about an interior circumference of a neck portion of the balloon forming a dispensed adhesive roll. The dispensed adhesive roll is at least partially encapsulated within an adhesive staging segment. The adhesive staging segment is shaped into a loop by at least one roller. The roller extends the balloon neck material and pulls the ring downward, drawing the ring into the adhesive staging segment. The ring aids in forming the loop. In use, the balloon would be inflated. The neck would be stretched, exposing the adhesive ring. The ring would be compressed forming a seal, entrapping pressurized air within the balloon gas retaining expansion cavity. This provides a low cost, simple self-sealing solution for a balloon.
US09174139B2 Noise-making assembly
Noise-making assemblies are presented including: a self-recovering stretchable element; and at least one noise-making element mechanically coupled with and along the self-recovering stretchable element at a number of attachment points, where the at least one noise-making element forms slack portions between the number of attachment points when the self-recovering stretchable element is in a relaxed position, where the slack portions are flattened when the self-recovering stretchable element is in an extended position, and where when the self-recovering stretchable element extends from the relaxed position to the extended position, the at least one noise-making elements emits a noise.
US09174137B2 Pet head kits and methods of making and using the same
Pet head kits and methods of making and using the same are disclosed.
US09174133B2 Touch-controlled game character motion providing dynamically-positioned virtual control pad
Methods and apparatus for controlling movement of a digital object displayed on a screen provide a virtual dynamic direction control pad based on zone detection and touch stroke direction to control customized animated character motion. A player wishing to move the digital object can use a stylus or other touch to indicate a first point on the screen. When the player first touches the stylus to the screen, the system analyzes the touch and divides the screen into multiple zones around the first point indicated by the player. To move the object, the player moves the stylus to a second point on the screen. Movement of the stylus to a second point within one of these zones causes the digital object to perform a predetermined action. Each zone has a predetermined associated action. Direct control of character motion by the game player is enhanced.
US09174131B2 User interface processing apparatus, method of processing user interface, and program for processing user interface
A user interface processing apparatus for controlling an application is provided. In the user interface processing apparatus, a touch on a display screen by means of a contact operation by a user on a touch panel is received. A touched position on the touch panel is detected when the touch on the display screen is received. The touched position is a position touched by the player on the display screen. A virtual controller is displayed at a predetermined position on the display screen corresponding to the detected touched position in a case where the touch on the display screen is received. An operation of the virtual controller displayed on the display screen is received from the player. The application is controlled in accordance with the operation received from the player.
US09174129B2 Wireless communication game system
A wireless communication game system includes a plurality of mobile game apparatuses, which function as a parent device or a child device and are capable of making a communication with each other, and broadcasts from the parent device a parent device packet including a parent device PID, a user name UserName, a game name GameName, an OC flag, an E slot, a U slot, and a payload. All the parent device packets are received from the parent device existing within a communicationable range of a user's own apparatus, and the user's own apparatus creates a parent device list, and displays the parent device list on an LCD. Therefore, a user or a player of his own apparatus looks at the game name of the parent device list, for example, and operates a cross key included in an operation key so as to select one desired parent device. Then, transmitting a child device number CID of the user's own apparatus at the E slot designated by the parent device packet, the user's own apparatus transmits a connection request to the parent device.
US09174128B2 Dynamic quests in game
Methods, systems, and computer programs are presented for executing a game and for creating computer-generated game quests, which are referred to as dynamic quests. One method includes an operation for identifying a template for creating a dynamic quest. The dynamic quest includes quest tasks and quest rewards, which are provided to a player upon completion of the quest tasks in the game. The template includes template tasks and template rewards. Further, the method includes an operation for selecting one or more template tasks for the quest tasks, and an operation for selecting one or more template rewards for the quest rewards. The dynamic quest is created in the game with the selected one or more template tasks and the selected one or more template rewards.
US09174124B2 Game controller on mobile touch-enabled devices
Various technologies described herein pertain to controlling a game with a mobile touch-enabled device. A thumbstick and a mode selection button can be rendered on a display of the mobile touch-enabled device. The thumbstick can be rendered on a reassignable area of the display and the mode selection button can be rendered on a mode selection area of the display. A touch (e.g., drag) from the mode selection area to the reassignable area can be detected, and an operation in the game can be controlled with the thumbstick represented as being at a depressed height in response to the touch in the reassignable area while the touch is detected without discontinuity of contact from starting the drag. Further, upon detecting discontinuation of the touch, a different operation in the game can be controlled with the thumbstick represented as being at a default height in response to a subsequent touch.
US09174122B2 Game controller
A technique which easily removes the motion element of the game controller which is attributed to the vibrating motion of a vibrator from the output data of an acceleration sensor or reduces the element can be achieved by the present invention. In a game controller, an acceleration sensor detects the movement of the game controller. LPF is installed at the output of the acceleration sensor. Vibrators are installed inside of a housing. The cutoff frequency of LPF is set lower than the peak value of the natural frequency of the game controller. The cutoff frequency of LPF may be set to two thirds or less of the peak value of the natural frequency of the game controller.
US09174118B1 System and method for detecting game client modification through script injection
Script injection in game clients used to access an online, interactive game may be detected. This detection may be performed on behalf of the entity operating the game in order to reduce cheating by users that relies on client modification through script injection. Detection of script injection may be performed on a recurring basis.
US09174116B2 System for developing, managing, acquiring and playing electronic board games
A device, method, and system for developing, managing, acquiring and playing electronic board games. Game developers may illustratively access one or more electronic game board, game piece templates and/or other game development application software from a game server to design and develop electronic board games. Such electronic board games may then be acquired by game players in the form of full, limited and/or modifiable versions. A game service module of the game server makes a number of electronic board game related services available to game players for managing, playing and acquiring electronic board game collections and/or for enhancing or facilitating electronic board game playing.
US09174115B2 Convertible item for folding into a play field
Described is a convertible item that is portable and that can be easily folded into a playing field through the use of one or more pop-up elements. For example, the convertible item is a substantially flat item that can transition between a first state, in which it is substantially flat, to a second state, in which the pop-up element is affixed in an upright position. In the second state, the convertible item operates as a playing field to allow users to play on its surface. For example, the playing field includes goals (in a soccer or hockey aspect) or can be formed to include a ramp (in a toy skateboard aspect). The convertible item is any suitably flat item, such as a folder for papers, or a greeting card. Thus, it can transition between a folder or card, to a playing field.
US09174114B1 System and method for generating reports associated with casino table operation
A system includes a gaming table, at least one light sensor, an electronic system, and a central computer. The gaming table includes a tabletop covered by a fabric. The at least one light sensor is positioned in proximity to a player position at the gaming table. In addition, the at least one light sensor is positioned beneath the fabric to detect light intensity through the fabric. The electronic system is communicably coupled to the at least one light sensor. Furthermore, the electronic system is operable to detect changes in light intensity at the at least one light sensor. The central computer is communicably coupled to the electronic system. Additionally, the central computer is operable to rate a plurality of dealers at a table game in a casino based on a status of the at least one light sensor.
US09174112B1 Synthetic low-maintenance bocce court
A synthetic, low maintenance bocce court with a surface comprising (a) a force-reduction layer comprising a open or closed cell foam material having a density with Shore A Durometer hardness of about 25 or more; (b) an embedding resin; (c) a bonding layer between the force reduction layer and the embedding resin, wherein the bonding layer comprises a non-woven mesh embedded in a polymer resin and, optionally, fused to a polymer wear layer; (d) elastomeric particles embedded in the embedding resin; and (e) a finish layer over the elastomeric particles and embedding resin; as well as a method of manufacturing same.
US09174109B2 Golf club, training device and method for aligning hands with club face of golf club
Golf training devices and related method are disclosed that provide to align a golfer's hands with a club face of a golf club. The training device includes a first attachment portion configured to couple the training device to a golf club and a second attachment portion coupled to the first attachment portion. The training device also includes an alignment component coupled to the second attachment portion. The alignment component can be shaped to represent a hitting surface of a different piece of sports equipment. When coupled to a golf club, the training device can be oriented such that the hitting surface of the alignment component is aligned with a club face of the golf club.
US09174107B2 Customizable enclosure system for tennis courts
The present invention is a novel customizable and retractable enclosure system particularly suited for tennis courts. The customizable and retractable enclosure system of the present invention includes windscreen panel assemblies connected to vertical support members using a system of highly tensioned cables and eliminates the use of a chain link fence.
US09174106B1 Tape and methods of attaching tape to a head of a lacrosse stick
Methods of attaching a tape to a head of a lacrosse stick. The tape includes a first side that is attached to the head, and an opposing second side with a number of different sections each with different frictional coefficient values. A first section may include a low friction coefficient value and is configured to be positioned along an outer edge of the head to facilitate sliding the head along the ground. A second section includes a higher coefficient value and is configured to be positioned along an inner side of the head to contact against the lacrosse ball to facilitate ball control. The tape is configured to be used with a lacrosse stick, but may also be used in various other contexts.
US09174103B2 Golf club head optimized for sound
A golf club head optimized for sound has a body that defines an interior cavity. The body includes at least one of a sole portion, skirt portion, or a crown portion. At least the sole portion is stiffened to provide a higher frequency sound. The stiffened sole portion increases the frequency range of the golf club head by at least 300 Hz with an overall frequency of greater than about 3000 Hz. The stiffened sole portion provides a higher frequency sound with a minimal increase in the overall weight of the golf club head. In one embodiment, the stiffened sole portion increases the weight of the golf club head by less than 10 grams with the overall weight of the golf club head less than 220 grams. In operation, the golf club head with at least the stiffened sole portion impacts the golf ball to provide an aesthetically pleasing sound.
US09174101B2 Golf club head having a stress reducing feature
A hollow golf club incorporating a stress reducing feature including at least a toe located stress reducing feature or a heel located stress reducing feature at least partially located on the skirt of the golf club head. The location and size of the stress reducing feature and their relationship to one another play a significant role in selectively increasing deflection of the face.
US09174100B2 Hollow golf club head and method of manufacturing the same
This invention provides a hollow golf club head including a metal plate portion provided with thin and thick portions. A medium thick portion having an intermediate thickness between the thicknesses of the thin and thick portions is formed at the boundary portion between the thin and thick portions. The thin and medium thick portions are formed by the steps of pressing the metal plate portion to form a recess in one surface of the metal plate portion and a projection on its other surface, performing chemical milling of the recess and a portion surrounding it, and removing the projection by grinding.
US09174098B2 Golf club head
A golf club head 2 is provided with a head body h1 and a CFRP member 16. The CFRP member 16 constitutes at least a part of a crown 6 or at least a part of a sole 8. The CFRP member 16 has a UD lamination part 18 having laminated UD layers. Orientation of a fiber is substantially set to three directions in the UD lamination part 18. When the three directions are a first direction, a second direction, and a third direction, preferably, an angle of the second direction to the first direction is substantially +60 degrees, and an angle of the third direction to the first direction is substantially −60 degrees. Preferably, the UD lamination part 18 has a lamination symmetrical property in a fiber orientation angle. Preferably, the number of layers of the UD lamination part 18 is 5 or greater and 12 or less.
US09174097B1 Adjustable golf club shaft and hosel assembly
An adjustable shaft and hosel assembly allows for dependent and independent adjustment of a golf club's face angle, loft angle, and lie angle. The adjustable shaft and hosel assembly comprises a shaft sleeve, a hosel portion, a tubular adjustment piece having non-parallel upper and lower surfaces, and a retention feature that provides an engagement between the tubular adjustment piece and the shaft sleeve to prevent the tubular adjustment piece from becoming detached from the shaft sleeve.
US09174096B2 Golf club head
A golf club head comprises a sole, a recessed sole port in the sole; and a rotatably adjustable sole piece adapted to be at least partially received within the sole port and comprising a central body having a plurality of contact surfaces adapted to contact the sole port and being offset from each other along a central axis extending through the central body of the sole piece. The sole piece can be positioned at least partially within the sole port at five or more rotational and axial positions with respect to the central axis, wherein at each rotational position, at least one of said contact surfaces of the central body contacts the sole port to set the axial position of the sole piece. The sole port and/or the sole piece can be generally pentagonal in shape.
US09174094B2 Method for creating positive hardness gradient in ionomer core and golf ball
A hollow golf ball center defined by an intermediate layer including a thermoplastic ionomer resin neutralized at least about 40% with a metal cation is filled with an alcohol having up to three carbon atoms or an aqueous alcohol solution to create a hardness gradient in the intermediate layer. The alcohol or aqueous alcohol solution may be left in the center, removed from the center leaving the center hollow, or replaced by another material.
US09174091B2 Golf ball intermediate layer resin composition and golf ball
An object of the present invention is to provide a golf ball intermediate layer resin composition with an excellent resilience and fluidity. Another object of the present invention is to provide a golf ball intermediate layer resin composition with a high hardness and durability. Yet another object of the present invention is to provide a golf ball traveling a great distance with an ionomer intermediate layer. The present invention provides a golf ball intermediate layer resin composition comprising, (A) an ionomer resin consisting of a metal ion-neutralized product of a binary copolymer composed of an olefin and an α,β-unsaturated carboxylic acid having 3 to 8 carbon atoms; (B) a binary copolymer composed of an olefin and an α,β-unsaturated carboxylic acid having 3 to 8 carbon atoms, and (C) a zinc compound, wherein a content ratio ((A)/(B)) of (A) component to (B) component ranges from 50/50 to 80/20 in a mass ratio and a content of (C) component ranges from 0.1 part to 20 parts with respect to 100 parts by mass of a sum of (A) component and (B) component, and the golf ball intermediate layer resin composition has a melt flow rate (190° C., 2.16 kg) of 15 g/10 min or more.
US09174089B2 Golf ball and method for producing the same
An object of the present invention is to improve the abrasion resistance and controllability in a golf ball having a polyurethane cover containing a layered silicate or the exfoliated layer thereof. The present invention provides a golf ball comprising a core and a cover covering the core, wherein the cover comprises a polyurethane resin having a secondary or tertiary amine structure in a molecular chain thereof, the secondary or tertiary amine structure being cationized, and a layered silicate and/or an exfoliated product thereof, having an average aspect ratio of unit layers thereof ranging from 10 to 50.
US09174088B2 Golf ball having non-concentric parting line
The present invention is directed to a golf ball comprising of non-concentric arcs defining a non-planar parting line on its spherical surface resulting in having a large size disparity between dimples in one hemisphere and adjacent dimples from the opposing hemisphere. The parting line is produced by a pair of adjacent dimples, wherein D indicates dimples and N indicates dimples from the Northern hemisphere and those from the Southern hemisphere are indicated by S. A large disparity may be created, if the following condition is satisfied: D ⁡ ( N ) D ⁡ ( S ) > 1.25 ⁢ ⁢ or ⁢ ⁢ D ⁡ ( N ) D ⁡ ( S ) < 0.80 .
US09174087B2 Swimming hand paddle
One embodiment of the present invention relates to a hand paddle system comprising a wrist member and a hand member. The wrist member and hand member are intercoupled. The wrist and hand members are configured to releasably couple or receive the scaphoid and metacarpal regions of a user's hand. The hand paddle system is composed and/or configured to be buoyant. The hand paddle system may also include a finger member coupled to the hand member opposite of the wrist member. The system causes an increased water entry resistance when the user improperly orients their arm and/or wrist leading up to and at the catch point and the buoyancy facilitates an early, high elbow catch and pull.
US09174083B2 Exercise devices, guide/hook devices, and methods of making and using same
An exercise device with a body having recesses for receiving fingers of a user. The body can be squeezable or not. An elastic band surround the periphery of the body, and permits the user to move fingers against the tension of the elastic band. A guide/hook device prevents accidental separation of the guide/hook device from the body, and prevents accidental separation of the elastic band from the guide/hook device.
US09174078B2 Residential sidewall fire sprinkler
A residential sidewall sprinkler and system for a coverage area defined by a pair of parallel vertical walls. The sprinkler includes a body having a passageway defining a K-factor of about 6. The body has an inlet coupled to a fluid supply line and a distal end coupled to a deflector assembly. The deflector assembly includes a face portion with an upper canopy and a lower canopy disposed about the face portion. The sprinkler is mounted to one of the walls to define a ceiling-to-deflector distance ranging from about four inches to about twelve inches. The fluid supply at the inlet is at least at one of a substantially constant flow rate of fluid and substantially constant fluid pressure. The deflector assembly distributes the fluid over the coverage area so as to wet the vertical walls within about twenty-eight inches of the ceiling over the ceiling-to-deflector range.
US09174068B2 Navigation device for brachytherapy and method for operating the navigation device
A navigation device for brachytherapy is provided. The navigation device has a 3D imaging facility which can be moved relative to an operating table, and which is designed to obtain a 3D image dataset intraoperatively for a region of the body of a patient positioned on the operating table which is to be irradiated radioactively using at least one applicator. The navigation device has a control facility which is linked to the imaging facility and is designed to generate a volume model of the region of the body, in which volume model the at least one applicator is emulated in the position indicated by the position data, from the 3D image dataset and from position data for a spatial position of the at least one applicator.
US09174066B2 Devices and methods for non-invasive capacitive electrical stimulation and their use for vagus nerve stimulation on the neck of a patient
A non-invasive electrical stimulation device shapes an elongated electric field of effect that can be oriented parallel to a long nerve, such as a vagus nerve in a patient's neck, producing a desired physiological response in the patient. The stimulator comprises a source of electrical power, at least one electrode and a continuous electrically conducting medium in which the electrode(s) are in contact. The stimulation device is configured to produce a peak pulse voltage that is sufficient to produce a physiologically effective electric field in the vicinity of a target nerve, but not to substantially stimulate other nerves and muscles that lie between the vicinity of the target nerve and patient's skin. Current is passed through the electrodes in bursts of preferably five sinusoidal pulses, wherein each pulse within a burst has a duration of preferably 200 microseconds, and bursts repeat at preferably at 15-50 bursts per second.
US09174064B2 Synchronizing chest compression and ventilation in cardiac resuscitation
Apparatus for automatic delivery of chest compressions and ventilation to a patient, the apparatus including: a chest compressing device configured to deliver compression phases during which pressure is applied to compress the chest and decompression phases during which approximately zero pressure is applied to the chest a ventilator configured to deliver positive, negative, or approximately zero pressure to the airway; control circuitry and processor, wherein the circuitry and processor are configured to cause the chest compressing device to repeatedly deliver a set containing a plurality of systolic flow cycles, each systolic flow cycle comprising a systolic decompression phase and a systolic compression phase, and at least one diastolic flow cycle interspersed between sets of systolic flow cycles, each diastolic flow cycle comprising a diastolic decompression phase and a diastolic compression phase, wherein the diastolic decompression phase is substantially longer than the systolic decompression phase.
US09174063B2 Housings for implantable medical devices and methods for forming housings
Described herein is an implantable medical device and methods for making a device that includes a metal housing using a molding process. In one embodiment, the housing includes a header attachment element that extends from the housing. In another embodiment, the implantable medical device includes a header attachment surface comprising one or more header retaining features configured to secure a connector header to the header attachment surface. In another embodiment, the housing includes one or more structural elements extending from and integrally molded with the interior surface of the first or second portions of the housing. Also disclosed are methods of making the implantable medical device.
US09174061B2 Multi-path transthoracic defibrillation and cardioversion
External electromagnetic stimulation of the interior of the body by applying three or more electrodes to the exterior of the patient to establish at least two electrical paths across the interior of the patient, determining impedance information representative of an impedance distribution across the interior of the body, delivering an electromagnetic waveform across each of the at least two electrical paths, wherein at least one parameter of the waveform is selected using the impedance information to produce a selected current density distribution at one or more locations within the interior of the body.
US09174056B2 Heart stimulation device and respective control system
Pacemaker for the stimulation of the human heart having three electrodes or two electrodes, with the first electrode connected to the right atrium, the second electrode connected to the right ventricle and the third electrode connected to the said right ventricle. The pacemaker is programmed so that there is first stimulation of the right atrium by means of the first electrode, then there is second stimulation of the right ventricle by means of the second electrode with an interval function of the programmed AV delay (50-400 msec) and with a voltage not exceeding 80-90% of the threshold potential, and finally there is third stimulation, again of the right ventricle by means of the third electrode with a voltage that conforms with Safety Margin rules and at a second stimulation time interval comprised between 50 msec and 300 msec.
US09174053B2 Neuromodulation using modulated pulse train
A neuromodulation system comprises a plurality of electrical terminals configured for being respectively coupled to a plurality of electrodes, a user interface configured for receiving input from a user that selects one of a plurality of different shapes of a modulating signal and/or selects one of a plurality of different electrical pulse parameters of an electrical pulse train, neuromodulation output circuitry configured for outputting an electrical pulse train to the plurality of electrical terminals, and pulse train modulation circuitry configured for modulating the electrical pulse train in accordance with the selected shape of the modulating signal and/or selected electrical pulse parameter of the electrical pulse train.
US09174052B1 Methods and systems for controlling stimulation in paddle lead based on local impedances
The present disclosure provides systems and methods for neurostimulation. The method includes applying electrical stimulation to a patient using a paddle lead that includes a plurality of electrodes, acquiring local impedances associated with at least some of the plurality of electrodes, wherein the local impedances are indicative of electrode-tissue contact and effectiveness of the electrical stimulation, transmitting the local impedances data to a computing device, and processing the local impedances data using the computing device to adjust the amplitude of stimulations and electrode configurations, and monitor electrode-tissue contact status over time.
US09174050B2 Methods and apparatuses for remodeling tissue of or adjacent to a body passage
Medical devices and methods for making and using the same are disclosed. An example device may include a catheter extending along a longitudinal axis. A balloon may be coupled to an end of the catheter. The balloon having a plurality of cylindrical treatment zones extending along the longitudinal axis in an expanded state. A plurality of electrode assemblies may be coupled to the balloon. Each electrode assembly may include a distal electrode pad and a proximal electrode pad.
US09174046B2 Apparatus and methods for assisting breathing
The present invention provides, among other things, apparatus and methods of use for treating a subject in need of assistance with breathing. In some embodiments the subject suffers from airflow obstruction. In some embodiments, the subject suffers from chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.
US09174045B2 Non-invasive electrical and magnetic nerve stimulators used to treat overactive bladder and urinary incontinence
Transcutaneous electrical and magnetic nerve stimulation devices and methods generate energy that is delivered noninvasively to selected nerve fibers within the patient to treat lower urinary tract disorders. The disorders comprise overactive bladder, urge incontinence, stress, incontinence, urge frequency, non-obstructive urinary retention and interstitial cystitis/painful bladder syndrome. In preferred embodiments, a posterior tibial nerve of a patient is stimulated non-invasively to treat bladder disorders.
US09174043B2 Methods for surgical wound dressing incorporating connected hydrogel beads having an embedded electrode therein
According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, a wound dressing system is presented. The wound dressing system includes a fluid permeable support layer, the support layer configured for positioning within a wound and adapted to generally conform to a topography of the wound, and to permit exudates from the wound to pass therethrough. The wound dressing system further includes a plurality of beads supported by the support layer, the beads defining an insulated inter-connected elongate member and an electrode embedded within and extending through at least a portion of the elongate member. Also, a current is generated by an external energy source that electrically flows through the electrode.
US09174040B2 Nerve stimulation and blocking for treatment of gastrointestinal disorders
At least one of a plurality of gastrointestinal disorders is treated by stimulating an enteric nervous system of a patient to enhance a functional tone of the enteric nervous system. A treatment includes electrically stimulating a vagus nerve of the patient at a stimulation site proximal to at least one site of vagal innervation of a gastrointestinal organ. The electrical stimulation includes applying a stimulation signal at the stimulation site. An optional proximal electrical blocking signal is applied to the vagus nerve at a proximal blocking site proximal to the stimulation site. The proximal blocking signal is selected to at least partially block nerve impulses at the proximal blocking site.
US09174037B2 Implanted access port
Implantable access port for removal and/or return of fluids to a patient, comprising an internal conduit connectable at its proximal end to the access port and at its distal end to a vascular structure of the patient; an external conduit connectable at its proximal end to the access port and at its distal end to an extracorporeal device; and a transcutaneous coupling member destined to be anchored in a tissue of the patient and comprising a first valve system operable to be in an open or closed configuration; the coupling member further comprises a second valve system removably connectable to the first valve system and operable to be in an open or closed configuration, such as to establish fluid communication between the internal and external conduits when the first and second valve systems are connected and in open configuration.
US09174035B2 Microneedle array applicator and retainer
An applicator that has an elastic band to snap a microneedle array against skin with a predetermined force and velocity. The microneedle array, which may be pre-loaded with drug(s), is attached to the elastic band such that the band can be secured in place (e.g., wrapped around a person's arm), pulled away from the arm, and released from a suitable distance so that the microneedle array snaps back against the arm with sufficient force to cause an intended amount of penetration of microneedles. Also, a microneedle application device has an elastic band, a microneedle device, and a structure attaching the band to the microneedle device.
US09174029B2 Catheter introducer with needle shield
A needle assembly with a needle shield is disclosed. The shield includes a lumen slidable on the needle, a holder and a needle blocking object which moves at least partially into the lumen in order to block distal movement of the needle. A spring biases the blocking object towards the needle axis. Proximal movement of the needle relative to the shield is limited by a restraint in the form of a discontinuity on the needle which abuts the shield, a tether or a tube abutting the needle hub. When the needle shield moves from a non-shielding position to a shielding position, the needle blocking object moves at least partially into the lumen. The needle blocking object is radially and axially constrained in the shielding position. The holder also prevents radial, longitudinal and circumferential movement of the blocking object. In one embodiment, the needle blocking object is a ball. A catheter adapter and tube may be threaded over the needle. The needle blocking object may also lock the catheter adapter to the needle shield, allowing it to be released only when the needle is shielded.
US09174025B2 Rapid exchange catheters having a sealed guidewire lumen and methods of making the same
Methods and devices for preventing fluid flow through the relatively short guidewire lumen of a rapid exchange catheter. The guidewire lumen for a rapid exchange catheter is provided with a narrowed or sealed section allowing for passage of a guidewire therethrough while preventing fluid flow while a guidewire is disposed therethrough. The narrowed or sealed section extends for a relatively short length of the guidewire lumen to avoid creating excessive friction between the guidewire and the guidewire lumen. In several embodiments the narrowed or sealed section is placed proximal of the distal end of the guidewire lumen.
US09174022B2 Medical catheter instrument
A medical catheter instrument has a shaft portion, a distal portion bendable in a controlled manner in at least one direction relative to the shaft portion, and a control element extending in an axially movable manner through the shaft portion to the distal portion. The axial movement of the control element controls a corresponding bending movement of the distal portion. The catheter instrument includes a bending assembly having at least one elongated, elastically bendable stiffening element and at least one elongated, bendable and axially length-adjustable bending element, the elements being provided in an axial sub-region of the distal portion and extending therein with an axial main component, wherein the stiffening element forms an element restoring bending movement and has a higher flexural stiffness than the bending element, and the bending element is coupled to the control element or forms part of the same.
US09173994B2 Touch-actuated micropump for transdermal drug delivery and method of use
A micropump device. The micropump device includes a first layer forming a first chamber configured to store a working material, a second chamber defined by a deflectable membrane in fluid communication with the first chamber and configured to deflect in response to a pressure increase in the first chamber in response to a volume increase in the first chamber, the second chamber configured to store a drug compound to be delivered to a subject's vascular system, and at least one needle in fluid communication with the second chamber and configured to penetrate a subject's skin to pump the drug compound in response to the deflection of the deflectable membrane.
US09173992B2 Secure pairing of electronic devices using dual means of communication
The present invention relates to secure paring of electronically controlled devices configured to communicate with each other. A medical system is provided comprising a first unit and a second unit, the system comprising a first communication link allowing a first group of data types to be transmitted between the first unit and the second unit, and a second communication link allowing a second group of data types to be transmitted between the first unit and the second unit. Different properties of the communication links may be used to ensure that certain data, e.g. during pairing of the two devices, can be transmitted in a more controlled way whereas other data can be transmitted in a less controlled way.
US09173982B2 Coatings for drug delivery devices
A polymer coating for medical devices based on a polyolefin derivative. A variety of polymers are described to make coatings for medical devices, particularly, for drug delivery stents. The polymers include homo-, co-, and terpolymers having at least one olefin-derived unit and at least one unit derived from vinyl alcohol, allyl alcohol and derivatives thereof.
US09173981B2 Bioabsorbable polymers
Described herein are biocompatible compositions that contain a copolymer and a filler material. In particular, described herein are compositions that include a copolymer and a filler which may be a calcium salt. Also described herein are methods in which the compositions are used to attach soft tissue to bone.
US09173980B2 Bioabsorbable polymer compositions exhibiting enhanced crystallization and hydrolysis rates
A bimodal bioabsorbable polymer composition. The composition includes a first amount of a bioabsorbable polymer polymerized so as to have a first molecular weight distribution; a second amount of said bioabsorbable polymer polymerized so as to have a second molecular weight distribution having a weight average molecular weight between about 10,000 to about 50,000 Daltons, the weight average molecular weight ratio of said first molecular weight distribution to said second molecular weight distribution is at least about two to one; wherein a substantially homogeneous blend of said first and second amounts of said bioabsorbable polymer is formed in a ratio of between about 50/50 to about 95/5 weight/weight percent. Also disclosed are a medical device, a method of making a medical device and a method of melt blowing a semi-crystalline polymer blend.
US09173979B2 Bioabsorbable polymeric compositions, processing methods, and medical devices therefrom
Novel bioabsorbable polymeric blends are disclosed. The blends have a first component that is a polylactide polymer or a copolymer of lactide and glycolide and a second component that is poly(p-dioxanone) polymer. The novel polymeric blends provide medical devices having dimensional stability. Also disclosed are novel bioabsorbable medical devices made from these novel polymer blends, as well as novel methods of manufacture.
US09173977B2 Coating formulations for scoring or cutting balloon catheters
The present invention is related to scoring or cutting balloon catheters carrying at least on a portion of their surface at least one drug or drug preparation and at least one lipophilic antioxidant at a ratio of 3-100% by weight of the at least one lipophilic antioxidant in relation to 100% by weight of the drug, wherein a combination of the at least one drug being a limus drug and the at least one lipophilic antioxidant being butylated hydroxytoluene is excluded.
US09173972B2 Methods and compositions for promoting wound healing
The present invention provides methods and compositions that use the combination of Tris and EDTA to inhibit the growth of microorganisms at the site of a wound or burn, and/or to promote the healing of a wound or burn, and/or to reduce the sensation of pain at the site of a wound or burn. The amount of Tris and EDTA applied to a wound or burn can be selected to achieve one or more of the foregoing effects.
US09173959B1 Anti-DLL3 antibody drug conjugates
Pharmaceutical compositions to treat proliferative disorders are provided.
US09173956B2 METAP2 inhibitors and methods of treating obesity
The present invention relates to modified or polymer conjugated MetAP2 inhibitors. The present invention also relates to methods of preventing, inducing, causing or increasing weight loss, treating obesity and/or treating metabolic syndrome utilizing the modified or polymer conjugated MetAP2 inhibitors. The present invention also relates to methods of improving insulin sensitivity and glycemic control, reducing insulin levels and/or improving leptin sensitivity utilizing the modified or polymer conjugated MetAP2 inhibitors.
US09173953B2 Prodrugs containing an aromatic amine connected by an amido bond to a linker
The present invention relates to a prodrug or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof comprising a drug linker conjugate D-L, wherein an aromatic amine containing biologically active moiety is connected (bound) by an amido bound to a linker. The invention also relates to pharmaceutical compositions comprising said prodrugs and their use as medicaments.
US09173952B2 Mitochondrial penetrating peptides as carriers for antimicrobials
There is described herein compounds comprising a mitochondrial penetrating peptide (MPP) conjugated to an antimicrobial, and their method of use.
US09173948B2 Fingolimod containing stable composition
The present invention relates to a pharmaceutical composition comprising fingolimod and a weak acid cation exchange resin in the form of an ion-exchange complex and pharmaceutically acceptable excipients.
US09173946B2 Bifunctional hydroxy-bisphosphonic acid derivatives
The present invention relates to a bifunctional hydroxy-bisphosphonic acid derivative of formula (I) below: or a pharmaceutically-acceptable salt thereof, a method for producing the same, pharmaceutical compositions containing the same, and the use thereof as a medicament, as well as a compound of formula (II) below: or a pharmaceutically-acceptable salt thereof, and the use thereof for producing a vectorized molecule of therapeutic or diagnostic purpose.
US09173944B2 Formulation suitable for stabilizing proteins, which is free of mammalian excipients
A formulation free of protein which stabilizes pharmaceutical active proteins, peptides, or mixtures thereof in large scale production processes comprising a mixture of a hydrophilic polymer and a non-ionic detergent, and a mixture of a polyalcohol and a sugar. In some embodiments the polyalcohol is absent.
US09173942B2 Liquid pharmaceutical formulations of palonosetron
The present invention relates to shelf-stable liquid formulations of palonosetron for reducing chemotherapy and radiotherapy induced emesis with palonosetron. The formulations are particularly useful in the preparation of intravenous and oral liquid medicaments.
US09173941B1 Sustained release bittering composition
A sustained release lotion for deterring animals from licking made by combining an aqueous phase having at least one bittering agent and at least one humectant, herein the at least one bittering agent is present in the aqueous phase in the range of about 0.001 to 25.0 wt. %; wherein the humectant is present in the aqueous phase in the range of from about 1 to 99 wt. %; and an oil phase comprising at least one oil and at least one surfactant, wherein the surfactant is present in the oil phase in the range of from about 1 to 100 wt. %, and wherein the aqueous phase is added to the oil phase in a weight ratio of about 3:1 to 49:1 using low to medium shear mixing and wherein the lotion is hydrophobic and has sustained release properties.
US09173940B1 Mixture of betamethasone and tranilast with a transdermal gel for scar treatment
The present disclosure relates to a synergistic mixture of betamethasone valerate and tranilast combined with a transdermal gel using skin permeation enhancement for application in scars for reducing or preventing the abnormal scar formation, specially keloids and hypertrophic scars. The disclosed synergistic mixture may exhibit permeation enhancing properties. The transdermal gel may include a mixture of silicone, phosphatidylcholine, pracaxi oil, and seje oil; one or more oils having essential fatty acids, behenic acid, oleic acid; one or more skin lipids; a butter having linoleic acid and linolenic acid; and solvents as transdermal penetration enhancers.
US09173937B2 Probiotics, secretory IgA and infection
The present invention relates generally to the field of nutrition, health and wellness. In particular the present invention relates to probiotics and ways to increase their effectiveness. One embodiment of the present invention relates to a combination of probiotics with secretory IgA and possible uses of this combination. For example a use of a composition comprising secretory IgA and at least one probiotic for the preparation of a product to treat or prevent infection is disclosed.
US09173934B2 Wheat allergens
The present invention relates to the field of IgE-mediated allergy, particularly occupational asthma such as bakers asthma. More specifically the invention relates to the identification of a novel wheat allergen and the use thereof in therapy and diagnosis of IgE-mediated allergy. Furthermore the present invention provides the use of known peptides and proteins in therapy and diagnosis. The invention also relates to methods for diagnosis and treatment of IgE-mediated allergy in mammals.
US09173932B2 Vibrio cholerae O139 conjugate vaccines
The disclosure pertains to conjugates of the capsular polysaccharide of Vibrio cholerae O139, or a structurally and/or immunologically related oligo- or poly-saccharide, and a carrier. These conjugates are useful as pharmaceutical compositions and/or vaccines to induce serum antibodies which have bactericidal (vibriocidal) activity against V. cholerae, in particular V. cholerae O139, and are useful to prevent, treat and/or reduce the severity of disease caused by V. cholerae infection, such as cholera. The present disclosure also relates to diagnostic tests for V. cholerae infection, and/or cholera caused by V. cholerae infection, using one or more of the oligo- or poly-saccharide-carrier conjugates or antibodies described above.
US09173929B2 Mucinous glycoprotein (MUC-1) vaccine
The present invention provides a method for treating an individual who is afflicted with a cancer, such as non-small cell lung cancer or prostate cancer, by administering to that individual a MUC-1 based formulation. The formulation may be a MUC-1 based liposomal vaccine formulation.
US09173925B2 Ferrimannitol-ovalbumin tablet composition
The invention refers to an oral pharmaceutical tableted dosage form which comprises a mixture of: a) granules comprising ferrimannitol-ovalbumin (FMOA) and at least an intragranular pharmaceutical acceptable excipient including a binder; and b) extragranular pharmaceutical excipients including a filler and a binder; which may be obtained by wet-granulation and compression.
US09173922B2 Uses of IL-12 in hematopoiesis
Methods for enhancing or stimulating hematopoiesis including the step of administering Interleukin-12 (IL-12) to yield hematopoietic recovery in a mammal in need. Preferred methods include the step of administering IL-12 as an adjuvant therapy to alleviate the hematopoietic toxicities associated with one or more treatment regimens used to combat a disease state. Other methods include administering IL-12 to ameliorate various hematopoietic deficiencies. Still other methods are directed to uses of IL-12 for in-vivo proliferation of hematopoietic repopulating cells, hematopoietic progenitor cells and hematopoietic stem cells. Other disclosed methods are directed to uses of IL-12 for bone marrow preservation or recovery.
US09173921B1 Method of promoting hair growth by administration of bFGF
Disclosed are a method of promoting hair growth or preventing hair loss in a mammal. In one aspect, the method includes administering interdermally or subcutaneously an agent containing an active ingredient comprising bFGF and a pharmaceutically acceptable substance, wherein bFGF is administered in a dose of 1 μg to 100 μg per 1 cm2 of the target area of hair growth treatment or hair loss prevention and a composition for use in the method.
US09173920B2 Methods of treating muscular wasting diseases using NF-KB activation inhibitors
Methods for treating muscular wasting diseases such as Duchenne muscular dystrophy are disclosed. Specifically, the methods include administering to a subject in need of treatment for a muscular wasting disease, an NF-κB activation inhibitor capable of blocking the activation of NF-κB.
US09173919B2 Collagen-targeted nanoparticles
This invention relates to compositions comprising collagen binding peptides coupled to nanoparticles. The invention also relates to a method of imaging a collagenous matrix using a composition comprising collagen binding peptides coupled to nanoparticles.
US09173918B2 Compositions and methods for the treatment of cardiac surgery-associated acute kidney injury with annexin A1 peptide
The present invention provides a method of treating, ameliorating and/or preventing cardiac surgery-associated acute kidney injury (AKI) in a subject, comprising administering to the subject a therapeutically effective amount of an annexin A1 (ANXA1) peptide such that the AKI is treated, ameliorated and/or prevented.
US09173915B1 Antioxidant eye drops
The antioxidant eye drops is a topical ophthalmic formulation that contains four nutraceuticals (namely, astaxanthin, resveratrol, pyruvate and epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG)) having antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and chelating activity in a carbomer gel carrier. The active ingredients can reduce oxidative stress through free radical scavenging and chelating activity. The carrier is composed of a solution of deionized water containing about 0.4% Carbopol 980 NF, 5.7% sorbitol. 0.01% cetrimide, 0.01% EDTA, and sodium chloride and sodium hydroxide in adequate amounts to adjust both the viscosity and the pH of the topical carrier to pH 7.0-7.4. Use of the formulation may delay the development of cataracts, reduce retinal degeneration, and maintain normal tear flow in dry eye due to the antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and chelating activity of the active ingredients.
US09173912B2 Cistus extract containing enriched secondary plant ingredients
The invention relates to a method for producing an extract containing at least 40% (m/m) of polyphenols from Cistus creticus L., said method comprising the following steps: plant parts are extracted from Cistus creticus L. using an extraction agent selected from the group comprising water, alcohols and mixtures thereof; the extraction residues are removed; the extraction agent is at least partially removed; redissolution is carried out in an aqueous solvent and the undissolved constituents are removed; and selective enriching is carried out by means of either a) a two-phase extraction, and b) a membrane filtration.
US09173909B2 Image guided protocol for cell generation
Computerized image guided control method uses image quantification to dynamically monitor and control the cell generation process. The method acquires images during the cell generation steps and uses computer image analysis to automatically quantify the results of the cell generation steps. In one embodiment, the quantified results from the image analysis are used to determine the readiness of the cell generation step. In another embodiment, a remedial recovery sub-step for the cell generation step is also guided by the imaging results. In yet another embodiment, when a cell generation step is determined to have failed, the cell generation process is early terminated based on image guided decision.
US09173908B2 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.
US09173905B1 Nutritional supplement and use thereof
Nutritional supplements and methods for maintaining and/or improving the condition of bones or cartilage in a mammal, particularly a human. One such supplement comprises demineralized bone matrix (DBM) wherein the DBM comprises a bone growth improving amount of at least one osteoinductive growth factor. A preferred supplement composition further comprises at least one vitamin, such as vitamin E. One method comprises orally administering to the mammal on a periodic basis a supplement comprising DBM. In a preferred method the DBM composition is periodically administered and there is a further periodic administration of a therapeutically effective amount of a calcium-containing composition; the calcium-containing composition is administered temporally spaced apart from said DBM composition for maximum effectiveness.
US09173903B2 Fluid associated with adult stem cells for medical, cosmetic, and veterinary use
Apparatus and process to create, expand, and localize the population of stem cells in adult tissues by placing a foreign body either in omentum or in the subcutaneous tissue. The apparatus 1) traps the granulation fluid, cells a fluid rich in a myriad of growth factors, 2) mobilizes and concentrates free-floating stem cells in the granulation fluid, and 3) stimulates the growth of a new tissue around the apparatus, which provides another source of stem cells. Stem cells obtained by this process can be used as freshly isolated or after culturing, which can be used for wound healing, treating diseases, and regenerating organs in animals and humans. The granulation fluid could substitute the stem cells in many of their applications and offers the convenience of an injectable medicine for treating animal and human diseases.
US09173901B2 Compositions and methods of using lamellar bodies for modifying linear biological macromolecules
Compositions comprising therapeutically effective amounts of lamellar bodies for the modification of linear macromolecules are disclosed. These lamellar compositions are useful in the treatment of conditions or diseases characterized by a preponderance of heavy mucous secretions, such as otitis media, cystic fibrosis, bronchitis, sinusitis and nasal congestion. Methods of treating these diseases and conditions by administering a therapeutically effective amount of a composition to a patient requiring such treatment are also disclosed.
US09173900B2 Compositions comprising elemental metals
The invention provides compositions and devices for altering biological field effects and methods for their use in therapeutic and agricultural applications. In particular, the invention provides compositions including one or more elemental metals coated with one or more non-conducting or semi-conducting materials and methods for their application to animals (including humans) and/or plants.
US09173898B2 Methods of treating giardiasis
Compounds useful for the treatment of giardiasis are described.
US09173894B2 Method of treating keloids or hypertrophic scars using antisense compounds targeting connective tissue growth factor (CTGF)
This invention provides methods of preventing formation of, or treating, fibrotic lesions, including skin scars such as keloids and hypertrophic scars which comprise administering to the subject by one or more injection a compound which comprises a modified oligonucleotide, such as a modified antisense oligonucleotide, siRNA, or oligodeoxyribonucleotide, which inhibits expression of protein involved in fibrosis. Dosing of the antisense using an intradermal threading technique is also described.
US09173891B2 Treatment of ovarian cancer using an anticancer agent conjugated to an angiopep-2 analog
Ovarian cancer is treated with conjugates of an anticancer agent and an Angiopep-2 polypeptide analog (i.e. a polypeptide comprising an amino acid sequence at least 80% identical to Seq. ID NO:97). Such treatment includes utility in treating metastatic ovarian cancer and in treating patients who have previously exhibited resistance to standard chemotherapeutic agents. Preferred anticancer agents include taxanes while the preferred conjugate is ANG1005, a conjugate comprising three molecules of paclitaxel conjugated to the peptide Angiopep-2.
US09173890B2 Sustained release of Apo A-I mimetic peptides and methods of treatment
A method including advancing a delivery device through a lumen of a blood vessel to a particular region in the blood vessel; and introducing a composition including a sustained-release carrier and an apolipoprotein A-I (apo A-I) synthetic mimetic peptide into a wall of the blood vessel at the particular region or a perivascular site, wherein the peptide has a property that renders the peptide effective in reverse cholesterol transport. A composition including an apolipoprotein A-I (apo A-I) synthetic peptide, or combination of an apo A-I synthetic mimetic peptide and an Acyl CoA cholesterol: acyltransferase (ACAT) inhibitor in a form suitable for delivery into a blood vessel, the peptide including an amino acid sequence in an order reverse to an order of various apo A-I mimetic peptides, or endogenous apo A-I analogs, or a chimera of helix 1 and helix 9 of endogenous apo A-I.
US09173889B2 Heparin-based compositions and methods for the inhibition of metastasis
The invention provides the use in combination of a heparin containing composition that has anticoagulant activity when used alone, such as an unfractionated heparin or low molecular weight heparin, in combination with an inhibitor of the anticoagulation activity/effect or effect of heparin, for the inhibition of metastasis.
US09173887B2 Hepatitis C inhibitors and uses thereof
This disclosure relates to: (a) compounds and salts thereof that, inter alia, inhibit HCV; (b) intermediates useful for the preparation of such compounds and salts; (c) compositions comprising such compounds and salts; (d) methods for preparing such intermediates, compounds, salts, and compositions; (e) methods of use of such compounds, salts, and compositions; and (f) kits comprising such compounds, salts, and compositions.
US09173881B2 Therapeutic compositions containing macitentan
The invention relates to a product containing the compound of formula (I) below or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt of this compound, in combination of at least one compound having prostacyclin receptor (IP) agonist properties, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof.
US09173877B1 Compositions and methods for the treatment of local pain
The invention relates to the compounds of formula I or its pharmaceutical acceptable salts, as well as polymorphs, solvates, enantiomers, stereoisomers and hydrates thereof. The pharmaceutical compositions comprising an effective amount of compounds of formula I, and methods for the treatment of local pain may be formulated for oral, buccal, rectal, topical, transdermal, transmucosal, intravenous, parenteral administration, syrup, or injection. Such compositions may be used to treatment of infiltration, nerve block, epidural, intrathecal anesthesia, pain, severe pain, chronic pain, chemotherapy induced pain, neuropathic pain, post herpetic neuralgia, neuralgia, motor neurone disease, diabetic neuropathy, postherpetic neuralgia, injury, post-operative pain, osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, multiple sclerosis, spinal cord injury, migraine, HIV related neuropathic pain, cancer pain and lower back pain.
US09173876B2 Preparation and therapeutic applications of (2S,3R)-N-2-((3-pyridinyl)methyl)-1-azabicyclo[2.2.2]oct-3-yl)-3,5-difluorobenzamide
The present invention relates to compounds that bind to and modulate the activity of neuronal nicotinic acetylcholine receptors, to processes for preparing these compounds, to pharmaceutical compositions containing these compounds, and to methods of using these compounds for treating a wide variety of conditions and disorders, including those associated with dysfunction of the central nervous system (CNS).
US09173871B2 Oxazole and thiazole compounds as beta-catenin modulators and uses thereof
A series of oxazole and thiazole compounds are shown herein to be small molecule inhibitors of the Wnt pathway that specifically target the activity of the stabilized pool of β-catenin. Oxazole and thiazole compounds are disclosed that have a formula represented by the following: The compounds may be prepared as pharmaceutical compositions, and may be used for the prevention and treatment of a variety of conditions in mammals including humans, including by way of non-limiting example, cancer, and others.
US09173870B2 Topical localized isoxazoline formulation
This invention provides topical localized formulations comprising an isoxazoline compound and a pharmaceutically or veterinary acceptable liquid carrier vehicle comprising N,N-diethyl-3-methylbenzamide as a solvent and an improved method for controlling, and preventing parasite infestation in animals.
US09173868B2 Use of deoxyelephantopin (DET) and analogues thereof for reducing side effects of an anti-cancer agent
Methods for preventing and/or reducing side effects of an anti-cancer agent in a subject in need thereof are disclosed. The method comprises administering to the subject, who is under an anti-cancer agent treatment, a composition comprising a therapeutically effective amount of isolated deoxyelephantopin and/or an analog thereof; and a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier.
US09173867B2 Treatment of immune dysregulation using cannabinoid derivatives
This invention discloses cannabinoid derivatives and pharmaceutical uses thereof.
US09173864B2 Treatment and/or prevention of inner ear conditions by modulation of a metabotropic glutamate receptor
Described herein are compositions and methods of treating and/or preventing inner ear conditions by administering to a patient in need thereof a modulator of a metabotropic glutamate receptor.
US09173862B2 Methods and compositions for treating and identifying compounds to treat age-related macular degeneration
The present invention provides methods for treating or limiting development of age-related macular degeneration, as well as methods for identifying compound suitable for such use.
US09173861B2 Thiadiazole-substituted arylamides as P2X3 and P2X2/3 antagonists
Compounds of the formula I: or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, wherein, R1 is optionally substituted thiadiazolyl, and R2, R3, R4, R5, R6, R7 and R8 are as defined herein. Also disclosed are methods of using the compounds for treating diseases associated with P2X3 and/or a P2X2/3 receptor antagonists and methods of making the compounds.
US09173857B2 Controlled dose drug delivery system
A multiple pulsed dose drug delivery system for pharmaceutically active amphetamine salts, comprising a pharmaceutically active amphetamine salt covered with an immediate-release coating and a pharmaceutically active amphetamine salt covered with an enteric coating wherein the immediate release coating and the enteric coating provide for multiple pulsed dose delivery of the pharmaceutically active amphetamine salt. The product can be composed of either one or a number of beads in a dosage form, including either capsule, tablet, or sachet method for administering the beads.
US09173853B2 Composition for gene delivery
Disclosed is a pharmaceutical composition for gene delivery, comprising: (i) a gene; (ii) a water-soluble chitosan; (iii) a thiamine pyrophosphate or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; (iv) a protamine or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; and (v) a neutral or anionic phospholipid. The composition can introduce a gene into cells safely and effectively. Composed of non-toxic and injectable components, the composition is safe for the body and can be advantageously commercialized. Notably, it can deliver a gene at high efficiency in vivo as well as in vitro, and is stable in the blood.
US09173852B2 Glycyrrhetinic acid-mediated nanoparticles of hepatic targeted drug delivery system, process for preparing the same and use thereof
Disclosed are a hepatic targeted drug delivery system and a process for preparing the same. Also disclosed is a method for treating liver cancer.
US09173850B2 4-methylpyrazole formulations
Provided herein are 4-methylpyrazole (4-MP) formulations, stable under storage conditions of up to about 55° C.
US09173840B2 Multifunctional self-assembling polymeric nanosystems
Libraries of nanoparticles comprising therapeutic agents and/or imaging agents are disclosed, as well as methods of making, customizing, and using such libraries of nanoparticles.
US09173838B2 Reverse micelle compositions for delivery of metal cations comprising a diglyceride and a phytosterol and method of preparation
The present invention relates to a method for the preparation of reverse micelles based on sterols, acylglycerols and metal salt and to reverse micelles obtained thereby. They are advantageously useful in the pharmaceutical and dietetic fields.
US09173835B2 Compositions and methods for treating hyperproliferative epidermal diseases
The present invention provides compositions and methods for use in the treatment of hyperproliferative dermal diseases. Specifically, the present invention teaches pharmaceutical compositions for topical administration where the compositions contain nicotinamide and a vitamin D metabolite, calcipotriol, which are particularly effective in treating and in the maintenance treatment of psoriasis and other related dermal disorders and diseases.
US09173833B2 Anhydrous antiperspirant compositions
An antiperspirant composition comprising a suspension of from 1 to 50% of an aluminium and/or zirconium containing antiperspirant active, a carrier substance in which the antiperspirant active is insoluble, and a poly(ethylene glycol) solution of a polyelectrolyte salt comprising sodium, potassium, magnesium, calcium, chloride and bromide ions, the weight ratio of sodium to the other named cations being less than 3:2 and the weight ratio of the bromide to chloride anion being greater than 1:99, in said solution.
US09173828B2 Agent for keratinous fibres, containing at least one specific amphiphilic cationic polymer and at least one specific copolymer
An agent for treating keratinous fibers, in particular human hair, containing in a cosmetically acceptable carrier (a) at least one amphiphilic, cationic polymer, comprising in each case at least one structural unit of formulae (I) to (IV), wherein R1, R2, R3, R4, R5, R6, R7, X1, X2, A1, and A2 are defined as in the 1st claim, and (b) at least one copolymer comprising at least one structural unit of formula (A1), at least one structural unit of formula (A2), and at least one structural unit of formula (A3), wherein R1, R3, and R7 independently of each other stand for a hydrogen atom or a methyl group, R2 stands for a (C1 to C4) alkyl group, R4 stands for a hydroxy (C2 to C6) alkyl group. Additionally, use of the agent for temporary shaping of hair and for hair conditioning, in particular as an aerosol hairspray or aerosol hair mousse.
US09173824B2 Mascara and applicator
A semi-permanent mascara product that includes a supply of a semi-permanent mascara composition disposed in a container and a twisted-wire brush for applying the mascara to the eyelashes of a user. The combination of the semi-permanent mascara and twisted-wire brush provides improved eyelash separation and reduced clumping versus the same mascara composition and an unsuitable molded plastic brush.
US09173823B2 Preparation for sun protection
The invention relates to the use of norbixin and an urucum extract enriched in bixin and/or norbixin as a food. The invention also provides a food preparation comprising norbixin, bixin or an extract comprising at least bixin or norbixin, the preparation being intended to be administered orally, for the protection of mammalian skin against UV-radiation.
US09173822B2 Use of glass compositions for achieving an antioxidative effect
Described are the use of glass compositions, for example, in the form of glass powders, glass ceramics, fibers, granules, and spheres for achieving an antioxidative effect. The glass compositions may be used in a versatile manner, such as in cosmetic products, medical products, edibles, paints and lacquers, plasters, cements and concrete, in antifouling products and in polymers. Because of the high photo and temperature stability, the glass antioxidants of the present invention are superior to the organic substances known so far. In addition the glass compositions in contact with human being are non-irritant to skin and even edible. Furthermore, they are toxicologically harmless and environmentally compatible.
US09173813B2 Medical tool and waste collection device
A welled handle device comprising a base with a front and back end having a predetermined silhouette or outer contour, a plurality of open wells formed in the base, and a tool portion connected to the front end of the base. The open wells contain regions which are substantially rough or textured and regions which are substantially smooth. A method of collecting medical waste comprising the steps of having waste on a hand or glove and gripping the grippable outer contour of a welled handle, wherein at least some of the medical waste is collected within the wells of the handle.
US09173811B2 Implantable electroacupuncture system and method for treating depression and similar mental conditions
An implantable electroacupuncture device (IEAD) treats mental illness through application of stimulation pulses applied at a specified tissue location, including at least one of acupoints GV20 and EXHN3, or their underlying nerves. In one embodiment, the IEAD comprises an implantable, coin-sized, self-contained, leadless electroacupuncture device having at least two electrodes attached to an outside surface of its housing. The device generates stimulation pulses in accordance with a specified stimulation regimen. Power management circuitry within the device allows a primary battery, having a high internal impedance, to be used to power the device. The stimulation regimen generates stimulation pulses during a stimulation session of duration T3 minutes applied every T4 minutes. The duty cycle, or ratio T3/T4 is very low, no greater than 0.05. The low duty cycle and careful power management allow the IEAD to perform its intended function for several years.
US09173806B1 Systems and methods for a stimulation device
Examples of the present disclosure are related to systems and methods for controlling stimulation movement on a stimulation device. Specifically, embodiments are related to changing a stimulation pattern on a stimulation device responsive to bio feedback data associated with a user.
US09173803B2 Integrated infusion management system
An integrated infusion management system provides for stable support of components attached to the system, even when the system is mobile. The system is optionally a mobility assist or walker for a patient who is attached to any number of medical components. A central trunk connects to a two-sided base that does not interfere with patient motion. The trunk may be angled with respect to vertical and oriented to support medical components in a configuration that is tip-resistant. The system is optionally deployable to facilitate conversion between a compact storage configuration and a stable deployed configuration. In an embodiment, additional deployable features include holding arms for holding various medical components, wheels, mobility arms and handles. Also provided is a novel wheel system with deployable wheels and methods associated with providing compact storage of any one or more of the systems presented herein.
US09173802B2 Mobile support assembly
A mobility device includes at least a first front leg and at least a first rear leg connected to the first front leg. The first rear leg includes an upper member having a first end a second end and a lower member having a first end and a second end. The first end of the upper member is pivotally connected to the first end of the lower member, and the lower member is preferably pivotal between an extended use position and a folded storage position.
US09173798B2 Patient repositioning system with hand crank capability
A patient repositioning system for pulling a patient toward a head end of a bed includes a sheet, a mattress, and a housing which contains at least a part of a drive mechanism for operatively coupling to and pulling the sheet. The housing resides below a head end piece of the mattress, and is secured to the bed deck. The sheet pulling structure extends out of the housing via a slot and releasably attaches to the sheet, in a manner which has a low profile so as to pass through the slot. The sheet is longer than and wider than the mattress, and has beaded longitudinal side edges which are retained within rows of spaced retainers located on opposite sides of the mattress. During pulling of the sheet, the contoured shape of the housing facilitates movement of the sheet into the housing via the slot, even though the sheet width extends beyond the lateral edges of the mattress. Additionally part of the drive mechanism may be located outside of the housing, and could include a hand held electrically powered unit, or even a hand crank which is operated entirely in a manual mode to reposition the patient.
US09173792B2 Standing wheelchair
A standing wheelchair device includes a wheeled base for enabling the device to move on a supporting surface. A harness assembly includes a plurality of braces for attaching to parts of a body of a user of the device, at least some adjacent braces of being connected by joints. A lifting unit mounted on the base, supports a hip joint of the harness assembly, and is configured to raise or lower the hip joint. When the user is attached to the harness assembly and is in a sitting position, raising a height of the hip joint causes the user to assume a standing position. When the when the user is attached to the harness assembly and is in a standing position, lowering the hip joint causes the user to assume a sitting or reclining position.
US09173789B2 Rapid intervention rescue device
An emergency drag stretcher is disclosed that combines a base panel formed of a flexible sheet material and a harness. The harness securely restrains an individual and holds the base panel against the individual, allowing the individual to be dragged or vertically lifted using the emergency drag stretcher.
US09173779B2 Swab for collecting biological specimens
The present invention relates to a swab for collecting biological specimens of the type consisting of a rod terminating in a tip covered with fibre with hydrophilic properties to allow absorption of said specimens, wherein said fibers covers said tip in the form of a layer deposited by flocking.
US09173778B2 Tampon having spirally shaped grooves
A tampon for feminine hygiene, having an insertion end, a recovery end, a recovery tape, and a longitudinal axis. The tampon is made of compressed fibrous material and has an outer surface that is at least partially provided with spirally shaped, pressed longitudinal grooves. The grooves define spirally shaped longitudinal ribs. Also disclosed is a method for producing the tampon.
US09173777B2 Modifiable occlusive skin dressing
Occlusive tissue dressings and methods including an elastomeric drape and a liquid component, at least partially cross-linked at least after one of drying and curing, suitable for application at a dressing-to-skin interface in order to create a substantially air-tight seal. The same or a different liquid component may be applied by a user at a tube-to-dressing interface in order to create a similar air-tight seal around the tube, if not occlusively sealed during its manufacture.
US09173773B2 Punctal plugs for the delivery of active agents
The invention provides punctal plugs for the delivery of active agent to one or both of the tear fluid of the eye and to the nasolacrimal duct. The plugs of the invention have a body, a reservoir contained within the body, and optionally a collarette. The reservoir has at least one opening and contains a polymeric material and at least one active agent.
US09173771B2 Ophthalmic surgical device for accessing tissue and for performing a capsulotomy
A surgical device and procedure are provided for smoothly and easily accessing tissue to perform microsurgery, including a capsulotomy of a lens capsule of an eye. The device includes a handpiece with a tip for insertion into an incision in the cornea of the eye. A sliding element is disposed within the handpiece and a suction cup is mounted to the sliding element. The sliding element can be translated to move the suction cup into and out of the handpiece. A compression mechanism associated with the suction cup and the handpiece compresses the suction cup for deployment through the tip of the handpiece. The suction cup can expand inside the anterior chamber into a cutting position on the lens capsule. A cutting element mounted to the suction cup is used to cut a portion of the lens capsule and to remove the portion from the eye.
US09173770B1 Punctal plugs for insertion into the tear ducts to slow drainage of eye moisture and methods for the manufacture thereof
A method is disclosed for making a porous punctal plug by providing a multi-filament fibrous strand and extrusion coating the fibrous strand with a polymeric material coating and cutting the coated fibrous strand to adequate length for insertion into a mammal's punctal opening.
US09173764B2 Splint configured to provide support, gentle massage, and frictional heat during use and method of manufacture
A splint which preferably gives support, proper neutral positioning of the wrist and which allows freedom of motion for activities.
US09173763B2 Force distribution method and apparatus for neonates at risk of cranial molding
A force distribution apparatus and method are presented. Various embodiments of the disclosed apparatus include a plurality of layers configured and oriented to be deployed on a subject in a manner that disperses forces and lowers peak pressures experienced by the subject when resting on a surface, which tends to minimize risks of deformation and local ischemia. An innovative combination of novel construction methods and material selections produce an apparatus that possesses an inherent three-dimensional shape despite being built from essentially flat components, while also retaining an ability to effectively distribute forces and reduce pressures.
US09173762B2 Retaining devices, retaining devices for use in reshaping ears and related systems and methods
Retaining devices for use with ears of a subject may include a first portion configured to be secured to a subject's head and a second portion configured to position the helix of the subject's ear. Methods of reshaping tissue of a subject's ear may include performing a laser treatment on the tissue of the subject's ear and installing a retaining device on the subject's ear.
US09173759B2 Devices and methods for gastrointestinal bypass
Devices and methods for gastrointestinal bypass are described. A gastrointestinal bypass device includes a gastrointestinal cuff and a gastrointestinal sleeve. The cuff may be configured to be attached in the esophagus, and may be sufficiently flexible to expand and collapse to conform with the inside of the esophagus to allow the esophagus to function substantially normally. The sleeve is configured to be coupled to the cuff, and may be made of a material that is floppy or flaccid but does not substantially expand radially.
US09173752B2 Coil bioabsorbable bifurcation stent
A bioabsorbable, expandable coil bifurcation stent having a first, second, and third segment, in which the second and third segments are extensions of a coiled fiber in the first segment. Also disclosed is a three-segment expandable coil bifurcation stent in which the second and third segments extend from supporting fibers in the first segment. Further disclosed is an expandable bifurcation stent in which supporting fibers in the first segment also support the second and third segments. The three segments are independently adjustable to fit varied geometries.
US09173744B2 Femoral prosthesis with medialized patellar groove
A prosthetic femoral component (10) for an orthopaedic prosthesis has a canted patellar groove adapted for optimal patella/component interaction, with the component configured to have a medial or lateral cant depending upon the method of implantation. The femoral component defines a distal “component transverse plane,” which is a plane tangent to the distal-most points of the component condyles (12,14). In a “mechanical” implantation, the component transverse plane is substantially normal to the mechanical femoral axis of the femur after the component has been implanted. Where the femoral component is configured to be “mechanically oriented” in this manner, the component has a medially canted patellar groove. On the other hand, an “anatomic” implantation is one in which, after the component has been implanted, the component transverse plane is substantially parallel to an “anatomic” transverse plane. The anatomic transverse plane is perpendicular to the anatomic axis of the femur from a sagittal view, and is inclusive of a line connecting the distal-most points of the natural femoral condyles before resection. Where the femoral component is configured to be “anatomically oriented” in this way, the component has a non-canted or slightly laterally canted patellar groove.
US09173740B2 Method for producing a ceramic acetabulum
A method for producing a prosthetic acetabulum includes the following steps. First, one makes available a ceramic cup (1) that has a concave internal receiving face (3) and has an external annular receiving structure (6). Next, one makes available a placement and orientation insert (7) that has an annular peripheral fixing structure (10) designed to cooperate with the receiving face (9) of the external annular receiving structure (6) by engaging around the external annular receiving structure (6). Next, one heats the placement and orientation insert (7) in order to increase the dimensions of the insert. Next, one engages the annular peripheral fixing structure (10) around the receiving face (9) of the external annular receiving structure (6). Finally, one returns the placement and orientation insert (7) to ambient temperature in order to reduce the dimensions of the insert, in such a way as to obtain a radial clamping of the annular peripheral fixing structure (10) on the external annular receiving structure (6).
US09173739B2 Implant comprising an expandable section
Penile implant and system comprising such an implant. The penile implant comprises a number of features which improves the function of the penile implant, e.g. a certain surface structure and portions with specific functions.
US09173731B2 Segmented hernia patch frame
A hernia repair prosthesis comprises a segmented frame forming a closed loop where a first segment comprises a helical hollow tube and a second segment comprises a solid strand. Both segments are preferably a metal exhibiting shape memory properties and the two segments are assembled with end portions of the second segment inserted into the lumen at opposed end portions of the first segment with a clearance fit. A prosthetic fabric is attached to the segmented frame.
US09173719B2 Force applying attachment, kit and method for pre-loosening a tooth in order to facilitate removal thereof
The present invention discloses a tool, kit and method for applying loading, torsional/twisting, oscillatory or vibration induced forces to a bond line established between a tooth root surface and an associated bone defined socket within which the tooth is held. Forces are applied typically for a given number of cycles or iterations in order to adequately pre-loosen the tooth from the bone. In a most basic variant, a body is adapted to being engaged by an output portion of a force applying tool. The body includes a pair of tooth engaging portions adapted to being inserted into contact with opposite surfaces of the tooth root surface and opposing surfaces associated with the bone receiving socket. The tool introduces loading forces to the engaging portions, causing the tooth to displace within the socket sufficiently to fracture the bond with the bone, thereby facilitating tooth removal.
US09173716B2 Computer-aided planning with dual alpha angles in femoral acetabular impingement surgery
A method for determining a resection volume of a pathologic femur having a femoral head and a femoral neck is provided. The method may determine a first point of a desired contour based on a pathologic alpha angle of the pathologic femur, determine a second point of the desired contour based on a desired alpha angle of the pathologic femur, determine a third point of the desired contour on the femoral neck of the pathologic femur, and generate a resection volume of the pathologic femur based on the first, second and third points of the desired contour.
US09173714B2 Magnetically secured surgical station with force modulation
An anchoring device for use within a body cavity during a surgical procedure is disclosed. The anchoring device includes an external assembly, an internal assembly, a controller, and a module. The external assembly has a first magnetic component. The internal assembly has a second magnetic component. The internal assembly is sized to be placed inside of the body cavity. The electrical current is connected with one of the first and the second magnetic component to produce a magnetic field about the connected magnetic component to approximate the internal and external assemblies. The module determines a parameter and is in communication with a controller. The controller controls the electrical current in response to the parameter.
US09173707B2 Coaptive surgical sealing tool
A coaptive surgical sealing tool may be similar to an ordinary hemostat with long (50, 60, 70 or 80 mm) thin jaws for sliding into the liver parenchyma, without tearing the larger blood vessels. The jaws are spring loaded and are designed for uniform compression, and to avoid closing too quickly. The jaws are capable of sealing a 50, 60, 70 or 80 mm sealing length, in a single bite, although it can also seal shorter lengths as well. The tool can be used with existing RF/bi-polar cautery generators. The tool may be provided with irrigation and/or suction.
US09173706B2 Dual-band dipole microwave ablation antenna
A triaxial microwave antenna assembly is disclosed. The triaxial microwave antenna includes a feedline having an inner conductor, a central conductor disposed about the inner conductor and an outer conductor disposed about the central conductor and a radiating portion including a high frequency radiating section and a low frequency radiating section.
US09173700B2 Electrosurgical device and methods
An electrosurgical probe with internal cooling for use in systems and methods for lesioning in bone and other tissue is disclosed. The probe includes tubular electrodes configured such that the inner surface of the lesioning electrodes are cooled, directly or indirectly, while keeping the electrodes electrically isolated. One embodiment includes an electrosurgical probe having at least two electrically isolated electrical conductors, including an inner electrical conductor and an outer electrical conductor. The inner electrical conductor defines a lumen for the circulation of a cooling fluid therein. An inner electrical insulator is disposed between the electrical conductors to electrically isolate the electrical conductors. The electrical insulator has sufficient thermal conductivity to allow for cooling of the inner and outer electrical conductors when the cooling fluid is circulating within the lumen of the inner electrical conductor.
US09173699B2 Endoscopic forceps
An endoscopic forceps is provided. A movable blade electrode and a fixed blade electrode form a pair of electrodes. The fixed blade electrode is electrically contacted onto an external electric conductor of a coaxial cable in the sheath conduit. A force application point of the movable blade electrode is connected to a center electric conductor of the coaxial cable. A pivot point of the movable blade electrode is provided on the movable blade electrode. The coaxial cable is slid with respect to the sheath conduit so that parallel moving added to the coaxial cable is transmitted to the movable blade electrode as turnable moving about the pivot point via the force application point of the movable blade electrode. A high frequency wave can be applied between the movable blade electrode and the fixed blade electrode via the external electric conductor and the center electric conductor of the coaxial cable.
US09173698B2 Electrosurgical tissue sealing augmented with a seal-enhancing composition
Embodiments of the disclosed technology provide systems, devices, and methods of creating an electrosurgical tissue seal that is augmented with a seal-enhancing composition. One embodiment of a device includes a set of opposing electrosurgical jaws configured to be able to close on a targeted tissue-sealing site; the jaws have a reservoir configured to hold a tissue seal-enhancing composition. The reservoir is in communication with a surface of the tissue-sealing site when the jaws are closed on the site, and the electrosurgical device is configured to deliver the tissue seal-enhancing composition to the site during an electrosurgical procedure. The device is further configured to deliver sufficient radiofrequency energy to the site such that the targeted tissue and the tissue seal-enhancing composition at the tissue-sealing site are processed to form a high integrity sealed tissue site.
US09173697B2 Surgical cannula for dissipating electric charge
A cannula subject to receiving electric charge via capacitive coupling is configured to provide an easily connectable path to remove the charge. The cannula is further configured with a flared distal end to prevent scraping contact with a surgical instrument shaft. Embodiments of the cannula may be used in surgical procedures in which the cannula does not contact the patient.
US09173696B2 Self-positioning electrode system and method for renal nerve modulation
Systems for nerve and tissue modulation are disclosed. An example system may include an intravascular nerve modulation system including an elongated shaft having a proximal end region and a distal end region. The system may include an expandable frame having one or more electrodes positioned on or about the frame. An actuation assembly including a biasing element, a central shaft, and a piston may be configured to provide for controlled expansion of the expandable frame. The system may further include a control element for controlling the actuation assembly.
US09173691B2 Devices, implements and methods for the treatment of a multi-axis joint
A system, devices and methods for performing an osteotomy on a bone of a multi-axis joint are provided. A cutting guide system is provided for performing one or more cuts to the bone, using the articular surfaces of the articulating bones as a reference. If desired, a prosthesis can be used to emulate the osteotomy and substitute for a damaged articular surface of a bone of a multiaxis joint.
US09173685B2 Tether clamp and implantation system
A clamp housing assembly and method for providing stabilization as a bone anchor during an operation. The assembly includes a housing, a locking element and a band. The housing defines a longitudinal axis, a center recess, and at least one slot. The housing has two opposing arms extending from a base. At least a portion of the inside surface of each arm may be threaded and at least a portion of the outside surface of each arm may be planar. The locking element is positionable within the recess in a co-axial relationship to the housing. The band is sized for travel along a predetermined path defined in part by the at least one slot in the housing.
US09173681B2 Alignment system with longitudinal support features
Some embodiments relate to systems, devices, and associated methods for correcting spinal column deformities that help minimize a number of attachment anchors utilized for correction, facilitate use of straight or contoured rods, and/or help promote a more natural, physiologic motion of the spinal column.
US09173678B2 Transobturator lead implantation for pelvic floor stimulation
The disclosure is directed to a method and tool for implanting a stimulation lead or other medical device adjacent a pudendal nerve. The tool includes a shaped needle that enters a patient and passes through an obturator foramen passage in a pelvis. A physician places a tip of the tool at the pudendal nerve and performs test stimulation to confirm an effective stimulation location. A shape memory cannula initially covering the needle remains at the pudendal nerve when the physician removes the tool. The cannula deforms to follow the curve of the pudendal nerve once the needle is removed, and a lead is inserted into the cannula and secured at the pudendal nerve placement site. This method may provide an easier and more consistent procedure for implanting the stimulation lead near the pudendal nerve.
US09173672B2 Ultrasonic surgical tool
At the surgical tool's proximal end, there is a first means (3) to generate ultrasonic vibration in a torsional shear mode. There is also a second means (2) to generate ultrasonic vibration in a longitudinal compression mode. A wave guide (4) is operatively connected to both generating means and extending therefrom by a distance of nλ/2 to a distal end provided with cutting and/or coagulating means. The ratio of the wavelengths of the longitudinal compression wave and the torsional shear wave, λc: λτ, is an odd number. Preferably λc=Nxλτ (where N is an odd integral number and x is an integer). Delicate shear motion of the torsional ultrasonic vibrational mode is combined with the more vigorous excitation of the longitudinal compression wave ultrasonic vibration.
US09173670B2 Skin abrader
The present invention relates to devices, methods, and systems for abrading the skin in preparation for attachment of an electrode. In some embodiments, the invention may provide for a simple, low-cost device 120 with a flat, abrading surface that removes the topmost layer of the skin without causing undue injury.
US09173665B2 Patient-specific surgical guide for intra-operative production of patient-specific augment
A patient-specific surgical guide for intra-operatively producing a patient-specific augment and a method for producing same are provided. The method includes planning a patient-specific augment using obtained patient imagery of a bone adapted to receive a prosthesis to determine a size and shape of the patient-specific augment corresponding to the bone, creating a model of the patient-specific augment having the determined size and shape, and providing a patient-specific surgical guide having cutting guide surfaces which are customized in position and orientation and configured to guide a surgical implement to form the patient-specific augment corresponding to the 3D model. The patient-specific surgical guide is then used intra-operatively create the augment corresponding to the 3D model.
US09173662B2 Customized patient-specific tibial cutting blocks
A customized patient-specific tibial cutting block comprising a body having a bone-facing surface that has a customized patient-specific negative contour configured to receive (i) a portion of an anterior side of a patient's tibia that has a corresponding positive contour, and (ii) a portion of a medial side of the patient's tibia that has a corresponding positive contour such that, when viewed superiorly, an angle greater than zero is defined between a vertically-extending, bisecting plane of the body and a bisecting sagittal plane of the patient's tibia when the portions of the patient's tibia are received in the customized patient-specific negative contour of the body, and at least one tab extending posteriorly from the body, the at least one tab having a bone-facing surface having a customized patient-specific negative contour configured to receive a portion of the proximal side of the patient's tibia that has a corresponding positive contour.
US09173659B2 Vascular plug
A vascular plug includes a plurality of cells which extend from a front face of the plug towards a distal end of the plug. The cells form at least a periphery of the plug and are in the preferred embodiment closed at their distal ends. The cells may form a central chamber to the plug or may extend across the entirety of the front face of the plug. The cells will fill with blood from the patient's vessel, to inflate the plug and create a barrier to fluid flow. Static blood within the plug will clot over time, creating enhanced occlusion. The plug can also be configured as a vascular filter.
US09173655B2 Needle driver and pawl mechanism for circular needle applier
A surgical suturing device comprises a needle having a leading end, a trailing end, an arced body between the leading and trailing ends, and two steps located at antipodal positions on the body. A length of suture is connected to the needle. A needle driver reciprocates at least 180 degrees between a driven position and a returned position. The needle driver is adapted to engage the needle steps to rotate the needle in a circular path in first rotational direction. A pawl is positioned adjacent the driven position of the needle driver. The pawl is adapted to engage the needle steps to prevent the needle from rotating in a second rotational direction opposite of the first rotational direction.
US09173654B2 System for tissue repair
Systems for tissue repair are described where an elongate tissue repair device may be introduced into a single incision to access the damaged tissue. A suture delivery assembly may be sized for insertion through a single incision and positioned into proximity with a damaged or ruptured tissue region. A first portion of the damaged tissue region may be positioned within or along a channel defined along the suture delivery assembly and one or more lengths of suture may be secured to the first portion via the device. A second portion of the damaged tissue region may be similarly positioned within or along the channel and one or more additional lengths of suture may be secured to the second portion via the device. The first and second portions may then be approximated and secured to one another via the sutures to facilitate healing of the damaged tissue region.
US09173645B2 Anchor assembly including expandable anchor
An anchor assembly can include at least one anchor member, such as a pair of anchor members that are configured to be implanted in a target anatomical location in a first configuration, and can subsequently be actuated to an expanded configuration that secures the anchor members in the target anatomy. The anchor assembly can further include a connector member that attaches the pair of anchor members together across a gap so as to approximate the anatomical defect.
US09173643B2 Pitch-roll-yaw surgical tool
A robotic surgical tool includes an elongate shaft having a working end and a shaft axis. The proximal end of a wrist member is pivotally mounted on the working end of the shaft to rotate around a first pitch axis to produce rotation in first pitch. An end effector is pivotally mounted on a distal portion of the wrist member to rotate around a wrist axis of the wrist member to produce rotation in distal roll. The wrist axis extends between the proximal portion and the distal portion of the wrist member. The elongate shaft is rotatable around the shaft axis to produce rotation in proximal roll.
US09173642B2 Elongate medical device handle autolock
An embodiment of a handle assembly for an elongate medical device that may reduce the weight and/or expense of traditional handle may include an exterior adjusting knob extending along a longitudinal axis and configured to rotate about the axis, an insert, and a dowel pin. The insert may be configured to engage the adjusting knob and to rotate about the axis responsive to rotation of the adjusting knob. The insert may comprise an annular groove configured to engage a dowel pin, the annular groove comprising a sidewall comprising a chamfer. The dowel pin may be configured to engage the annular groove to resist rotation of the insert. In an embodiment, the insert may comprise plastic or polymer.
US09173640B2 Systems and methods for processing ultrasound color flow mapping
In one aspect, the invention relates to an ultrasound imaging system that includes an ultrasound receiver configured to receive ultrasound signals scattered from a sample in real time; an acoustic beam former; and an ultrasound data demodulation system. In one embodiment, the ultrasound imaging system further includes a processing system configured to process demodulated scan data and perform ultrasound image generation and flow processing and a display configured to show ultrasound image data and blood flow velocity data relative to such image data. Signals that include positive flow information and negative flow information are separated from received signals using phase-filters and analytic signal transforms such that a first and a second autocorrelation signal processing stage is used to generate mean positive flow, mean negative flow, and variance data for such flows.
US09173634B2 Fatty tissue image display device
A fatty tissue image display device includes a light source, an ultrasonic wave transmission/reception mechanism, an analysis unit which calculates a velocity change of ultrasonic waves after irradiation with a heating beam as compared to before irradiation with light, a display control unit which displays the distribution of the calculated velocity change of the ultrasonic waves, a designation unit which waits for the designation of a region of interest, a histogram calculation unit which, based on luminance information or color information within the designated region of interest, calculates the histograms of a fatty region showing a negative velocity change of the ultrasonic waves and a normal region showing a positive velocity change of the ultrasonic waves, and an index calculation unit which, from the calculated histograms of the fatty and normal regions, calculates a fatty change index that is an index of a proportion of fatty tissue.
US09173629B2 Ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus and ultrasonic image processing apparatus
Certain embodiments provide an ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus including a data acquisition unit configured to acquire a plurality of spatially overlapping ultrasonic images or a plurality of temporarily consecutive ultrasonic images, a block extraction unit configured to extract, for each pixel, a block having a predetermined size and including each pixel as a central pixel for each of the plurality of ultrasonic images, a covariance calculation unit configured to calculate a covariance for each pixel of each of the plurality of ultrasonic images by using the block for each pixel, and a generating unit configured to generate a synthesized image using the plurality of ultrasonic images and to control a level of each pixel of the synthesized image based on a covariance of each pixel of each of the plurality of ultrasonic images.
US09173628B2 Mobile base and X-ray machine mounted on such a mobile base
A mobile base designed to receive an X-ray machine is provided. An X-ray machine capable of being mounted on the mobile base is also provided. The X-ray machine of the invention is configured to move using a motor-driven system associated with a navigation system. The navigation system of the invention enables the X-ray machine to be moved automatically and with precision from one position to another within an examination, hybrid or operation room. The X-ray machine is also configured for the automatic positioning of the moving parts around the patient, while at the same time keeping the region to be subjected to radiography within an X-ray beam.
US09173623B2 X-ray tube and receiver inside mouth
A method and a device for low x-ray radiation dosage while taking x-ray images of a patient's teeth is disclosed. The method includes use of an x-ray source and receiver positioned at least partially inside the patient's mouth. The device includes an x-ray source and receiver attached together by a bite holder and configured to both be disposed at least partially inside the patient's mouth across a tooth while taking x-ray images of a patient's tooth.
US09173618B2 Diagnostic imaging system and method using multiple types of imaging detectors
A diagnostic imaging system and method using multiple types of imaging detectors are provided. The imaging system includes a gantry having a rotor and a stator and a pair of gamma detectors coupled to the rotor. The imaging system further includes a gamma detector coupled to the stator. The gamma detector coupled to the stator is different than the pair of gamma detectors coupled to the rotor.
US09173617B2 Method for controlling radiation dose and intravenous contrast dose in computed tomography imaging
A system and method for acquiring an image of a region of interest (ROI) of subject using a computed tomography (CT) system includes a) performing a scout scan of the subject using the CT system to yield scout data related to the ROI and b) determining an initial contrast volume form at least the scout data. The method also includes c) prescribing a scanning protocol to be implemented using the computed tomography system to image the ROI and d) determining a size of the subject about the ROI. The method further includes e) determining a computed tomography dose related to volume (CTDIvol) based on at least the size determined at step d) and f) adjusting the scanning protocol prescribed in step b) to match at least one of a desired radiation dose and a relative intravenous (IV) contrast dose to a reference CTDIvol. The method includes g) acquiring imaging data from the ROI using the CT system by using the adjusted scanning protocol.
US09173616B2 Method and apparatus for providing three-dimensional (3D) image
Provided is a method and apparatus for providing a three-dimensional (3D) image. A plurality of first projection images may be created by detecting X-rays which are emitted toward an object at different angles. A plurality of second projection images with respect to a partial volume of the object may be created by applying a forward projection and interpolation to at least one of the plurality of first projection images. A left image and a right image may be selected from among the plurality of second projection images, and the selected left image and right image may be displayed for a user as a 3D projection image.
US09173608B2 Space-saving magazining of analytical aids
An analytical magazine is proposed, which comprises a plurality of analytical aids accommodated in chambers. The analytical magazine is arranged to be accommodated in at least two orientations in an analytical system. The analytical magazine is furthermore arranged to provide the analytical system, in the orientations, in each case with a plurality of analytical aids. At least one sampling movement can be executed by means of the analytical aids. The analytical magazine is arranged to make a remagazining of the analytical aids possible.
US09173607B2 Polymer membranes for continuous analyte sensors
Devices and methods are described for providing continuous measurement of an analyte concentration. In some embodiments, the device has a sensing mechanism and a sensing membrane that includes at least one surface-active group-containing polymer and that is located over the sensing mechanism. The sensing membrane may have a bioprotective layer configured to substantially block the effect and/or influence of non-constant noise-causing species.
US09173603B2 Non-invasive device and method for measuring bilirubin levels
A transcutaneous non-invasive device and method for measuring bilirubin levels is provided. The device and method utilize optical, electrical, and mechanical means in communication with processing means to calculate the serum bilirubin concentration. Blanching pressure is applied to the tissue, whose thickness is measured. The level of bilirubin is calculated from the thickness of the tissue and the detected and measured values of radiation transmitted through the living tissue.
US09173600B2 Systems and methods for the identification of compounds in medical fluids using admittance spectroscopy
Described herein are devices, systems, and methods for determining the composition of fluids, and particularly for describing the identity and concentration of one or more components of a medical fluid such as intravenous fluid. These devices, systems and methods take multiple complex admittance measurements from a fluid sample in order to identify the identity and the concentration of components of the fluid. The identity and concentration of all of the components of the solution may be simultaneously and rapidly determined. In some variations, additional measurement or sensing modalities may be used in addition to admittance spectroscopy, including optical, thermal, chemical, etc.
US09173591B2 Stent visualization and malapposition detection systems, devices, and methods
In part, the invention relates to computer-based methods, devices, and systems suitable for displaying stent malapposition in a 2-D or 3-D image. A threshold malapposition distance can be set as an input in response to which a software component in an imaging pipeline automatically detects stent struts and calculates a malapposition distance from a lumen contour. Projections of stent strut dimensions can be used to compensate for stent imaging artifacts results from imaging probe orientation in the lumen.
US09173590B2 Method and system for quantitative renal assessment
Method and system embodiments of the present invention employ computational analysis tools running on one or more computer systems to quantitatively analyze MRI data from patients in order to both assess various functional parameters and characteristics of a patient's kidney, as well as to provide an electronic display device interconnected with the one or more computer systems, and accessible visualization of the quantitative assessment to facilitate diagnosis of various types of kidney abnormalities and pathologies.
US09173588B2 Method for identifying stimulation target
A method for identifying a stimulation target is provided, which uses microelectrode recording and electrical impedance tomography techniques together in a composite probe. The composite probe includes at least a microelectrode recording sensor and a plurality of microelectrodes, so that after the composite probe is guided and implanted to a depth suitable for the stimulation target based on microelectrode recording signals, tissue structures surrounding the composite probe are delineated by using the plurality of microelectrodes, and the boundary of the stimulation target and the precise location of the composite probe within the stimulation target are determined. Accordingly, the present invention provides a quick and accurate direction for surgeons, eliminating the problem of not knowing the exact location of the implanted probe within the stimulation target as in the case during deep brain stimulation surgeries.
US09173587B2 Sense a physiological response
An apparatus comprising a sensing unit configured to detect a physiological response from a user of a breast pump and to trigger a change in an operation of the breast pump in dependence of the detected physiological response, the sensing unit being located separately from a funnel of the breast pump.
US09173583B2 Neural sensing device and method for making the same
The present invention provides a neural sensing device and method for making the same. The neural sensing device includes a base, an integrated circuit portion, a plurality of microprobes and at least one conductive via. The base has an active surface and a backside surface. The integrated circuit portion is disposed on the active surface of the base. The microprobes protrude from the backside surface of the base. The through silicon via is disposed in the base and electrically connects the integrated circuit portion and the microprobes. Each of the microprobes includes an isolation layer partially covering a conductive layer.
US09173582B2 Adaptive performance trainer
Techniques for accelerating training through optimization of the psychophysiological state of the trainee are provided. These techniques include an adaptive performance training system configured to acquire, analyzed, display, and translate data that reflects the psychophysiological state of the user, including the electrical activity of the brain (EEG), the heart (EKG), the musculature (EMG), respiration and other parameters that characterize the state of the user in real-time. The system includes a plurality of feedback mechanisms for providing visual, auditory, and/or tactile feedback based on the current psychophysiological state of the user and for facilitating moving the user toward a goal psychophysiological state for performing a particular task and for optimizing performance of that task.
US09173580B2 Estimation of F-wave times of arrival (TOA) for use in the assessment of neuromuscular function
A method and apparatus for the assessment of neuromuscular function by estimating motor unit F-wave component time of arrival (TOA), comprising: (i) determining and comparing F-wave component features so as to accurately identify individual F-wave components; (ii) repeatedly searching the individual F-wave components and extracting individual F-wavelets from the F-wave components so as to build a complete F-wave TOA profile; and (iii) computing and reporting TOA results for the assessment of neuromuscular function.
US09173579B2 System and method for characterizing circulatory blood flow
A computer-implemented method for characterizing circulatory blood volume is disclosed. The method has the steps of acquiring a biological signal that emulates the arterial pulse wave from a sensor. Two derived parameters, circulatory stress, which reflects a harmonic of heart rate, and circulatory blood flow, which reflects the amplitude of the unprocessed biological signal, are extrapolated from the biological signal, and are each compared to a threshold value and assessed to determine an adequacy of circulatory blood volume. In embodiments, the assessment of circulatory blood volume is used to manage a patient's cardiovascular autoregulatory function or the adequacy of transfer of fluids to and from the circulatory system, with the ultimate goal of achieving a circulatory blood volume that adequately supplies the demands of the patient's tissues and organs.
US09173575B2 Determining hemodynamic performance
A method for determining haemodynamic performance in a human or animal subject comprises receiving at a processor data representing haemodynamic variables measured from the subject over time. The haemodynamic variables comprise at least two of Systemic Perfusion Pressure (SPP), Systemic Vascular Resistance (SVR), Cardiac Output (CO), Heart Rate (HR) and Stroke Volume (SV). The data are processed to produce a display signal for causing a display device to present a visual mapping relating the haemodynamic variables according to the relationship SPP=CO×SVR and the visual mapping is displayed on a display device. The visual mapping may be corrected Heart Rate (HR) or include a second mapping which facilitates an adjustment to take account of HR.
US09173574B2 Mechanical health monitor apparatus and method of operation therefor
A probabilistic data signal processor used to determine health of a system is described. Initial probability distribution functions are input to a dynamic state-space model, which iteratively operates on probability distribution functions, such as state and model probability distribution functions, to generate a prior probability distribution function, which is input to a probabilistic updater. The probabilistic updater integrates sensor data with the prior to generate a posterior probability distribution function passed to a probabilistic sampler, which estimates one or more parameters using the posterior, which is output or re-sampled and used as an input to the dynamic state-space model in the iterative algorithm. In various embodiments, the probabilistic data signal processor is used to filter output from any mechanical device using appropriate physical models, which optionally include chemical, electrical, optical, mechanical, or fluid based models. Examples to valve bearings and pipe systems are provided.
US09173571B2 Systems and methods for maintaining a narrow body lumen
Devices and processes for maintaining a narrow body lumen are described. One embodiment of the inventive device includes: (i) a hydraulic propulsion mechanism for propelling an imaging portion or a therapeutic portion through the narrow body lumen; and (ii) a retrieval mechanism for retrieving the imaging portion or the therapeutic portion from the narrow body lumen.
US09173567B2 Triggering user queries based on sensor inputs
In particular embodiments, a method includes accessing one or more physiological data streams, analyzing each physiological data stream in reference to a set of control parameters, and, if a data stream deviates from its control parameters, then transmitting a query to a mood sensor or a behavioral sensor.
US09173566B2 DNA, blood, heart, glucose, body temperature, skin and other medical diagnostic communications
Medical diagnostic and digital communication methods for processing in a mobile device a DNA, or blood, or heart or glucose, or body temperature or skin, or urine, or another medical device provided signal into a processed signal. Providing processed medical signals to a Code Division Multiple Access (CDMA) processor or to a Orthogonal Frequency Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiplex (OFDM) processor for processing, modulation and transmission of mobile device modulated signals in a wireless system. Processing a touch screen generated signal in mobile device into a touch screen processed signal for control of mobile device. Digital communications to and from a heart pacemaker for wireless mobile diagnostics and control of heart pacemaker.
US09173565B2 Automated vision screening apparatus and method
This invention is related to a self-service vision screening kiosk that allows individuals to screen their eyesight without assistance. The device includes subjective and/or objective tests via an interactive video and software program that measures visual acuity and contrast sensitivity. The invention is designed to provide a report with test results. The device and method may also provide a means for making referrals, scheduling appointments, ordering lenses, dispensing lenses and/or forwarding prescriptions to eye care professionals or lens manufacturers.