| Document | Document Title |
|---|---|
| US09182978B2 |
Application configuration using binary large objects
Embodiments provide rule-based application configuration using a network service. A configuration parameter associated with an application includes a rule that specifies configuration data based on one or more criteria, such as by selecting a configuration value from a plurality of available configuration values. A request for configuration data corresponding to the configuration parameter is received from a client. The request includes one or more criteria describing a user associated with the client. Customized configuration data is determined based on the rule and the criteria of the request, and the customized configuration data is provided to the client. The client executes the application (e.g., a game) based on the customized configuration data. |
| US09182975B2 |
Automatic application updates
A method for updating an application on a mobile device includes accessing, at the mobile device, application management information. The application management information identifies a plurality of applications installed on the mobile device and one or more granted permission settings associated with each installed application. The method also includes sending, from the mobile device to a server, a request for update information regarding each installed application and receiving, at the mobile device from the server, the update information. The update information identifies an update package for a respective application of the plurality of installed applications. The method also includes installing the update package without user interaction from a user of the mobile device if one or more required permission settings associated with the update package are included in the one or more granted permission settings associated with the respective application of the plurality of installed applications. |
| US09182974B1 |
System and methods for updating software of templates of virtual machines
Disclosed are systems, methods and computer readable medium for updating software of templates of virtual machines. An example method includes determining a first coefficient indicative of a level of importance of a continuous operation of one or more virtual machines created from a virtual machine template; determining a second coefficient indicative of a level of criticality of software updates on the one or more virtual machines created from the virtual machine template; determining a third coefficient as a function of the first coefficient and the second coefficient; and when the third coefficient exceeds a threshold, updating the software on the virtual machine template to generate an updated virtual machine template. |
| US09182973B2 |
Device and method for smart device and sensor node integrated application update
Provided is a device and a method for smart device and sensor node integrated application update, including an application program updating device including a generator to generate a package in a storage space by installing a sensing application, an extractor to extract an installation file and a profile of an application program interworking with the sensing application from the package, a recognizer to recognize a sensor node by referring to the profile, an installer to install the application program by transmitting the installation file to the sensor node, and an executor to execute the application program and the sensing application when the application program is installed in the sensor node. |
| US09182969B1 |
Using disassociated images for computer and storage resource management
The present invention provides tools and techniques for facilitating (314) management of storage (122), software (118), and other resources of a computer (102) at a distinct management computer (110) using a disassociated ample image (104) of the managed computer's storage. Ample images may be searched (310) to identify (414) infected files or illegal files, to extract (410) disk usage information, or for other reasons. Ample images may be modified (312) and then deployed (316) back to the original imaged computer and/or to other computers outside the management node. Modifications may change (502, 504, 506) application software, change (508, 510, 512) hardware drivers to match hardware changes on the target computer(s), manipulate (520) partitions, and/or perform other steps to optimize storage, software, or other resources. |
| US09182966B2 |
Enabling dynamic software installer requirement dependency checks
An installer for installing a software program on a computing device can be executed. The installer can perform a set of dependency checks before installing the software program. The set of dependency checks can include the validation of a pre-requisites associated with the proper execution of the software program. The pre-requisites can be a portion of a dependency content. The content can be a checklist. Before the software program is installed on the device and responsive to executing the installer, the installer can update dependency content using a custom dependency checklist. The updating of the dependency content can be performed without updating code of the software program to be installed on the device. The execution of the installer can continue using the updated dependency content for performing the set of dependency checks responsive to automatically updating the dependency content. |
| US09182965B2 |
Method and apparatus for developing socially suitable applications and devices
An approach is presented for making the use of a mobile device more socially suitable. Remote control application programming interfaces and installation packages are specified to developers for designing applications that can be controlled via a main device (e.g., a mobile phone) and one or more accessory devices (e.g., a watch). Specifically, each application is required to have two installable components—one that resides on the main device and one that is automatically installed on an associated remote accessory device. By enabling the seamless installation of these two components, a new paradigm or ecosystem for how applications are to be created and installed is introduced. In this new paradigm, application developers will not only develop the applications, but they will also design and define a way to make their applications remotely controllable and reachable from an accessory device, thus making the associated mobile devices running such applications more socially suitable. |
| US09182963B2 |
Computerized migration tool and method
A computerized system, method, and computer program product for migrating applications are disclosed. A processor is configured to execute the stored instructions. The instructions may cause the processor to perform the steps including: analyzing a legacy application to be migrated to a new platform; generating one or more reports showing results of the analysis of the legacy application; migrating a schema of the legacy application to the new platform; and migrating a content of the legacy application to the new platform. |
| US09182957B2 |
Method and system for automated improvement of parallelism in program compilation
A method of program compilation to improve parallelism during the linking of the program by a compiler. The method includes converting statements of the program to canonical form, constructing abstract syntax tree (AST) for each procedure in the program, and traversing the program to construct a graph by making each non-control flow statement and each control structure into at least one node of the graph. |
| US09182955B1 |
Data-dependent control flow reduction
A transformation of software control flow to reduce the number of successor blocks in the control flow as well as the number of flow control elements. The control flow after transformation has more streamline code and less data-dependent control flow, which yields better runtime performance, and at the same time maintain functionally equivalent. Software control flow is improved by, for each data-dependent flow control element in the control flow graph, finding value narrowing points that would be sufficient that the exit control flow selected by that flow control element would be deterministic. The control flow is modified such that the control flow leads (without passing through the flow control element) from that found value narrowing point to the identified control flow that would be selected given the found value narrowing point. This method may be repeated proceeding from one flow control element to the next. |
| US09182950B2 |
Non-transitory computer-readable recording medium storing user interface program for developing application software
A non-transitory computer-readable recording medium that stores a user interface program for developing application software using a graphical user interface (GUI) developing unit configured to cause a user to develop application software via a GUI. The user interface program causes a computer to function as a command-line user interface (CUI)-based GUI control unit configured to control the GUI developing unit via a CUI. The GUI developing unit is configured to operate in response to an input event generated by manipulation of an input device, and the CUI-based GUI control unit is configured to pseudo-generate the input event via the CUI. |
| US09182943B2 |
Methods and devices for prime number generation
One feature pertains to a method that reduces the computational delay associated with generating prime numbers. The method includes generating a first random number having a plurality of bits. A first primality test is then executed on the first random number. Then, it is determined whether the first random number generated fails or passes the first primality test. If the first random number fails the primality test then a portion but not all of the plurality of bits of the first random number are replaced with an equal number of randomly generated bits to generate a second random number. Next, a primality test is again executed on the second random number. This process is repeated until a prime number is detected. |
| US09182939B1 |
Method and system for managing the power state of an audio device integrated in a graphics device
One embodiment of the present invention sets forth a method for managing a power state of an audio device resident in a graphics processing unit. The method includes the steps of directing audio data originated from a client application via an audio path in an audio driver stack to the audio device, determining whether an active stream of audio data along the audio path is present in response to a notification of an attempt to shut down the graphics processing unit, and requesting a plug and play manager to disable the audio device, if no active stream of audio data is present along the audio path. |
| US09182931B2 |
Printer with a web browser for obtaining HTML data from a server
A network system has a printer with an internal web browser connected to a web server. The printer has a request unit that sends an HTTP request with printer status information embedded in the URL to the server, a data acquisition unit that gets HTML data from the server, and a print unit that executes a printing process based on the supplied HTML data. The server includes a request receiving unit that receives HTTP requests from the printer, a data transmission unit that sends HTML data to the client, and a status management unit that manages the printer status based on the status information embedded in the URL of the HTTP request. |
| US09182930B2 |
Printer driver and application decoupling using event centric registration model
Some embodiments of the invention provide a printer user interface (UI) component configured to handle presentation of information to a user during printing operations. The printer UI component may de-couple the rendering and configuration functionality provided by a printer driver from the presentation of information to end users, thereby reducing the risk that applications may crash or hang due to printer driver malfunction. In some embodiments, a registry of events upon which information should be presented to the user is established, and the printer UI component may be registered for some or all of these events, so that when the specified events occur the printer UI component may be invoked to cause information to be presented to the user. |
| US09182929B2 |
Computer readable medium, information processing device, and printing device
A computer readable medium has a browser-openable language file stored thereon. The language file includes a first description concerning a first object, a second description concerning a second object, the first and second descriptions being configured to set the first object with the second object specified as a link destination thereof and to display the second object in a display area of a browser in response to the first object being selected on the browser when the language file is opened with the browser, and a third description provided under the second description so as to display a third object with a vertical size substantially equal to or larger than a vertical size of the display area of the browser. |
| US09182923B2 |
Controlling throughput of processing units associated with different load types in storage system
The storage system includes a progress status detection unit that detects respective progress statuses representing proportions of the amounts of processing performed by respective processing units to the amount of processing performed by the entire storage system, each of the processing units being implemented in the storage system and performing a predetermined task; a target value setting unit that sets target values of processing states of the processing units, based on the detected progress statuses of the respective processing units and ideal values of the progress statuses which are preset for the respective processing units; and a processing operation controlling unit that controls the processing states of the processing units such that the processing states of the processing units meet the set target values. |
| US09182922B2 |
Dynamically adjusting write pacing by calculating a pacing level and then delaying writes for a first channel command word (CCW) based on pacing level
For dynamically adjusting write pacing, a calculation module calculates an interval as a maximum threshold for a primary volume divided by a first maximum pacing level for a first importance level. The calculation module further calculates a first pacing level as a number of record sets that have not been mirrored to a secondary volume divided by the interval. The first pacing level is set to the first maximum pacing level if the first pacing level is greater than the first maximum pacing level. The calculation module also selects a first pacing delay associated with the first pacing level from a delay table. A pacing module delays writes for a first channel command word writing to the primary volume by the first pacing delay. |
| US09182919B2 |
Assigning device adaptors to use to copy source extents to target extents in a copy relationship
Provided are a computer program product, system, and method for assigning device adaptors to use to copy source extents in source ranks to target extents in target ranks in a copy relation. A determination is made of an order of the target ranks in the copy relation. Target ranks in the copy relation are selected according to the determined order. For each selected target rank, indication is made in a device adaptor assignment data structure of a source device adaptor and target device adaptor of the device adaptors to use to copy the source rank to the selected target rank indicated in the copy relation, wherein indication is made for the selected target ranks according to the determined order. The source ranks are copied to the selected target ranks using the source and target device adaptors indicated in the device adaptor assignment data structure. |
| US09182918B2 |
Network storage systems having clustered raids for improved redundancy and load balancing
A clustered network-based storage system includes a host server, multiple high availability system controller pairs, and multiple storage devices across multiple arrays. Two independent storage array subsystems each include a quorum drive copy and are each controlled by a HA pair, with remote volume mirroring links coupling the separate HA pairs. The host server includes a virtualization agent that identifies and prioritizes communication paths, and also determines capacity across all system nodes. A system storage management agent determines an overall storage profile across the system. The virtualization agent, storage management agent, quorum drive copies and remote volume mirroring link all operate to provide increased redundancy, load sharing, or both between the separate first and second arrays of storage devices. |
| US09182917B1 |
Storage system polling reduction
Described are methods, systems, and apparatus for reducing storage system polling when collecting and providing storage system state data. A plurality of poll requests for storage system state data is received. For each poll request of the plurality of poll requests, a poll request arrival time associated with the poll request is stored. A first poll is initiated to collect first storage system state data for a first poll request of the plurality of poll requests. A first poll start time associated with the first poll is stored. The first poll is completed, forming the first storage system state data. For each poll request of the plurality of poll requests, the first storage system state data is provided for the poll request provided that the poll request arrival time is before the first poll start time. |
| US09182915B2 |
Method and apparatus for accessing data stored in a storage system that includes both a final level of cache and a main memory
A data access system including a processor having (i) one or more levels of cache, and (ii) a storage system that includes a main memory and a cache module. The cache module includes a controller and a final level of cache to be accessed by the controller prior to accessing the main memory. In response to data required by the processor not being cached within the one or more levels of cache of the processor, the processor generates an address of a physical location within the storage system. The controller converts the address of the physical location within the storage system into an address of a virtual location within the final level of cache. The address of the virtual location is useable by the cache module to determine whether the data required by the processor is cached within the final level of cache. |
| US09182912B2 |
Method to allow storage cache acceleration when the slow tier is on independent controller
The present invention is directed to a method for providing storage acceleration in a data storage system. In the data storage system described herein, multiple independent controllers may be utilized, such that a first storage controller may be connected to a first storage tier (ex.—a fast tier) which includes a solid-state drive, while a second storage controller may be connected to a second storage tier (ex.—a slower tier) which includes a hard disk drive. The accelerator functionality may be split between the host of the system and the first storage controller of the system (ex.—some of the accelerator functionality may be offloaded to the first storage controller) for promoting improved storage acceleration performance within the system. |
| US09182911B2 |
Menu display method of mobile terminal
A mobile terminal including a display having a menu display portion configured to display a menu group among a plurality of menu groups that are arranged in a same planar surface, a handler mechanism configured to traverse through the plurality of menu groups, and a controller configured to select one menu group among the plurality of menu groups to be displayed in the menu display portion based on a manipulation of the handler mechanism. |
| US09182909B2 |
Number keypad
Embodiments provide methods, apparatuses, and articles of manufacture for arranging keys of a number keypad based on movement of another key. In various embodiments, a contact may be detected, and a key associated with the contact moved to a second location in accordance with movement of the contact. Based on the second location a second key may be arranged. |
| US09182908B2 |
Method and electronic device for processing handwritten object
According to one embodiment, a handwriting process method includes displaying a handwritten object on a touch-screen display of an electronic device, the handwritten object includes a plurality of strokes, the plurality of strokes being input by handwriting, detecting a touch operation at a location on at least part of the handwritten object on the touch-screen display, and executing a first process determined according to a shape of the handwritten object, if the touch operation is detected. |
| US09182907B2 |
Character input device
A mobile phone terminal includes a touch panel that detects a gesture with respect to a display surface thereof, and a control unit that displays a plurality of buttons on the display surface of the touch panel. When the touch panel detects a gesture in which touch is started at a first position on the touch panel and is maintained to a second position on the touch panel, the control unit displays a character string obtained by prediction processing or conversion processing based on a character string including characters corresponding to buttons displayed on a trajectory obtained by connecting each position in which the touch is detected from when the touch is started at the first position to when the touch is maintained to the second position in a predetermined area on the touch panel as a candidate of a character string input by the gesture. |
| US09182906B2 |
Mode switching
Based on one or more characteristics of a received translation input, a computing device is switched between two or more states. The translation input may be a touch input, for example a drag operation. The states may relate to locked and unlocked states, idle screens, or other suitable examples. |
| US09182903B2 |
Method and apparatus for keyword graphic selection
A method on an electronic device is described. A set of graphics and a set of stored keywords are received in a higher-power mode of operation, each graphic corresponding to one or more of the stored keywords. The higher-power mode of operation is discontinued to enter a lower-power mode of operation. In the lower-power mode: audio signals are listened for; it is detected whether any keywords of the set of stored keywords are present in the audio signals; detected keywords present in the audio signals are stored; a graphic is selected from the set of graphics based on a comparison between the set of detected keywords and the set of stored keywords; a first portion of the selected graphic is displayed, in response to the at least one control signal, on a first area of a touch screen display that is within a first portion of the touch screen display. |
| US09182902B2 |
Controlling method for fixing a scale ratio of browsing image of touch device
Disclosed is a controlling method for fixing a scale ratio of browsing images of a touch device. The controlling method comprises the steps of: determining a zooming region on a display screen, which is determined by pinching the browsing image from a selected position to thus zoom in or zoom out the browsing image, and the scale ratio of zooming is accordingly determined; displaying a screen-locking icon on the display screen, wherein the scale ratio is locked when the screen-locking icon is triggered to be in a locking state; and displaying the other browsing images with the same scale ratio of zooming and with a viewing size same as the zooming region. |
| US09182901B2 |
Mobile terminal and control method thereof
A mobile terminal and a control method thereof are disclosed. The mobile terminal includes: a memory configured to store a plurality of sound sources; an output unit comprising an audio output module; and a controller configured to control the output of sound sources comprising at least another one of the plurality of sound sources, based on a specific event acquired when at least one of the plurality of sound sources is output to the audio output module or on standby for output. Accordingly, the output of a plurality of sound sources can be easily controlled. |
| US09182900B2 |
User terminal apparatus and control method thereof
A control method of a user terminal apparatus. The control method includes receiving a first user input for selecting at least one graphical object from among a plurality of graphic objects displayed on a touch display screen of the user terminal apparatus, altering and displaying at least one graphic element which configures the selected graphical object selected, displaying a menu related to the selected graphical object near the displayed graphical object, and receiving a second user input for selecting the displayed menu, using the touch display screen. |
| US09182896B2 |
Terminal and method of control
A terminal having a touch screen includes a vibrator configured to provide feedback of a vibration of varying amplitude or frequency when a list is scrolled. The vibration varies as the position of a displayed portion of a list is scrolled using a scroll bar. A unique vibration pattern may be generated when the scrolled list reaches one end, or when a file having a unique attribute is highlighted. A portion of a webpage may be displayed, and the portion of the webpage may be adjusted by scrolling the webpage. When a webpage object is scrolled to a particular location on the display, the terminal may generate a vibration indicating the presence of the webpage object. The terminal may also provide vibration feedback when a progress bar of a reproduced multimedia file is manipulated or when a magnification factor of a displayed image is changed. |
| US09182894B1 |
Method and terminal for displaying information on a screen
In a method for displaying information on a screen, information configured as a first element and a second element, in a separate space from the latter, for simultaneous display on the same screen page is supplied. The first element and the second element are separated from one another again in a second step and are then displayed on a screen at separate times. |
| US09182888B2 |
System, device and method for providing presence information using audio data
This invention relates to a system, device, and method for providing presence information using audio data. This invention provides a terminal device that displays a user list when predetermined input information is detected, receives, from a service device, presence information and audio information associated with the presence information of other user selected from the displayed user list, and controls an output unit, when the received presence information and audio information are displayed through the output unit, to implement audio data contained in the audio information. Accordingly, this invention can provide the users with the presence information intuitively by using audio data, and the users can gain a new user experience (UX), wherein the users can intuitively perceive the presence information via audio instead of text, that may boost the use of application for providing service exploiting the presence information. |
| US09182881B2 |
GUI pointer automatic position vectoring
A method and computer system for rapid and accurate automatic vectoring of a graphical user interface pointer to a selectable item on a display. Based upon pointer movement input from a pointing device (e.g., a mouse, touchpad or specially configured keyboard), a direction of travel vector from an initial anchor position towards a target item is determined. The location of the target item is extrapolated and the pointer is automatically moved to that target item. To ensure that the pointer moves to the intended target item, the location of the target item is extrapolated based upon the direction of travel vector and default and/or user defined parameters. Optional user defined parameters include initial pointer anchor position, vector sensitivity, automatic selection of target item, and user defined pointer limitations. |
| US09182880B2 |
Method of displaying images via touching and electronic apparatus thereof
A method of displaying images via touching and an electronic apparatus thereof are provided. The method includes the following steps. A basic input/output system (BIOS) is loaded to execute an initialization program of the electronic apparatus, where the electronic apparatus has not loaded an operating system. The touch display module is defined to include a human interface device, and the touch display device has a virtual input area, and an input interface is displayed at the virtual input area. A touch event is generated when the touch display device is touched, and a coordinate value is generated according to the touch event. When the coordinate value locates in the input interface, the coordinate value corresponds to a functional code of the human interface device, and a corresponding operation is executed according to the functional code. |
| US09182879B2 |
Immersive interaction model interpretation
Embodiments of the present disclosure include one or more of a method, computing device, computer-readable medium, and system for providing an immersive GUI. According to an embodiment, this may include providing a view of G&G data within at least a substantial portion of the GUI, a first GUI element, wherein transparency of the first GUI element varies depending on a location of an input device with respect to the first GUI element, and a second GUI element, wherein the second GUI element is customized based on a context. |
| US09182875B2 |
Information processing terminal and control method therefor
An information processing terminal has a plurality of displays, each displaying an application screen, and control means which determines a display on which a new application is to be activated from the plurality of displays. If an application being executed competes with a first non-dependent condition that does not depend on a display requested by a new application, the control means ends the application being executed and determines a display on which the new application is to be activated by using a first dependent condition that depends on the display requested by the new application or a second non-dependent condition that does not depend on the display requested by the new application. |
| US09182869B2 |
Touch panel and electronic device
A touch panel includes a first sensor panel including at least one receiving electrode, a second sensor panel including at least one transmission electrode, and overlaid on the first sensor panel, and a third sensor panel including a predetermined electrode at least a part of which overlaps with the one transmission electrode, and overlaid on the second sensor panel. A transmission signal identical to that for the one transmission electrode can be applied on the predetermined electrode. |
| US09182868B2 |
Electrode loop structure of touch panel
An electrode loop structure of a touch panel mainly extends from I-shaped electrode elements serving as a base, and utilizes the annular conducting chain and gradient chain regularly cascaded together. A discontinuous resistor chain is disposed between the conducting chain and the gradient chain, wherein the conducting chain changes, by adjusting the cascaded length of and the gaps between the electrode elements, the conductor area to generate the trend of voltage drop, so that the conducting chain has the voltage regulating and compensating properties. Meanwhile, the gradient chain may also make the gradient chain have the voltage distributing uniformity by adjusting the lengths of and the gaps between the electrode elements, so that the electrode loop is effectively distributed around the electroconductive substrate to form the homogenized electric field effect, thereby satisfying the narrow-edge design requirement. |
| US09182867B2 |
Apparatus and method for detecting adjacent object and method of driving electronic device
Provided are an apparatus and method for detecting an adjacent object, and a method of driving an electronic device. The apparatus includes a substrate, a plurality of first electrodes including a plurality of first electrodes disposed to extend in a first direction on one surface of the substrate, a plurality of second electrodes disposed alternately and in parallel with the first electrodes on the surface of the substrate to form capacitors together with the first electrodes, a signal source configured to generate electrical signals, a detector configured to detect current signals output when the electrical signals are applied to the capacitors, and a controller configured to connect the signal source to the first electrodes and the detector to the second electrodes. |
| US09182862B2 |
High noise immunity sensing methods and apparatus for a capacitive touch device
High noise immunity sensing methods and apparatus are provided for a capacitive touch device, which sense the capacitive touch device for self capacitance or mutual capacitance or both with different scan frequencies in a frame, to thereby suppress certain frequency noise interference. By combining time domain and space domain noise-eliminating approaches, probabilities of noise interference are reduced, without compromising other parameters. |
| US09182858B2 |
Method for burying conductive mesh in transparent electrode
The present invention relates to a method for burying a conductive mesh in a transparent electrode, and more particularly, to a method which prevents a conductive mesh from protruding from a transparent electrode by burying the conductive mesh in the transparent electrode. |
| US09182854B2 |
System and method for multi-touch interactions with a touch sensitive screen
Embodiments of the invention are directed to interacting with a touch sensitive display screen. A method may include detecting a plurality of interactions with a touch sensitive screen. A display area may be defined based on locations associated with the interactions. An action may be performed with relation to a defined display area. An action may be performed with relation to content presented in a defined display area. |
| US09182853B2 |
Function selection by detecting resonant frequencies
A function of an electronic device is selected by detecting a resonant frequency generated by a tapping on a selection region of a device housing. The function of the device is selected based on the detected resonant frequency. |
| US09182852B2 |
Projection apparatus,method, and program for a projector projecting plural screen sections one screen section at a time
A projection apparatus is configured to cooperate with a pointing device. An image input unit inputs an image signal from an external device. A projection unit projects, on a screen, an image on which coordinate information has been superimposed, according to the image signal input to the image input unit. A coordinate acquisition unit acquires, from the pointing device, a part of the coordinate information superimposed on the image projected by the projection unit. A correction unit corrects the coordinate information acquired by the coordinate acquisition unit. A transmission unit transmits the coordinate information corrected by the correction unit to the external device. |
| US09182847B2 |
Display device with integrated touch screen and method of driving the same
The display device with integrated touch screen includes a panel configured to time-division operate during first and second display durations and first and second touch durations at every frame, a touch IC configured to apply a touch scan signal to a plurality of electrodes to allow the panel to perform touch driving during the first and second touch durations, and a display driver IC configured to, when the first touch duration of an n+1st frame is started, transfer display information about the second display duration of an nth frame and display information about the first display duration of the n+1st frame to the touch IC, and when the second touch duration of the n+1st frame is started, transfer display information about the first display duration of the n+1st frame and display information about the second display duration of the n+1st frame to the touch IC. |
| US09182845B2 |
Sensor
A sensor for, and a method of, generating electrical signals indicating a positional property and an extent property of a mechanical interaction within a sensing zone. The sensor comprises a plurality of conductive layers. At least one conductive layer is a pressure-sensitive conductive layer comprising a quantum tunnelling conductance (qtc) material. Contact between conductive layers is allowed during the absence of a mechanical interaction within said sensing zone. The sensor may be configured to provide a three-terminal sensing functionality or a four-terminal sensing functionality. The sensing zone may be substantially two-dimensional or substantially three-dimensional. The sensor may be substantially flexible or substantially rigid. |
| US09182844B2 |
Touch panel, display device provided with touch panel, and method for manufacturing touch panel
A configuration of a touch panel in which an electrode pattern is not readily visible is attained in the present invention. A touch panel is provided with an insulating substrate, first island-shaped electrodes formed on the substrate and arranged in one direction, second island-shaped electrodes formed on the substrate and arranged in a direction intersecting the direction in which the first island-shaped electrodes are arranged, a first connecting member for connecting the first island-shaped electrodes, a metallic film formed on the first connecting member, an insulating film formed so as to completely cover the metallic film, and a second connecting member for connecting the second island-shaped electrodes over the insulating film. The first island-shaped electrodes, the second island-shaped electrodes, the first connecting member, and the second connecting member are formed using a transparent conductive film. |
| US09182842B2 |
Mobile terminal
A mobile terminal is provided. The mobile terminal includes a window including a key button portion, a light-transmissive pattern formed at a rear surface of the window, a touch sensor disposed to cover the rear surface of the window and a metal pattern formed at one surface of the touch sensor, the metal pattern overlapping the key button portion so as to be exposed through the light-transmissive pattern. |
| US09182837B2 |
Methods and systems for implementing modal changes in a device in response to proximity and force indications
Methods, systems and devices implement changes in operating mode for a media player, wireless telephone, portable computer or other device having a force sensor and a proximity sensor. A force indication is received from the force sensor and a proximity indication is received from the proximity sensor responsive to user input. The device is then switched from a second operating mode to a first operating mode in response to an occurrence of user input being indicated by both the force and proximity indications. A trigger event occurring during one of the operating modes evokes a response by the device that is not evoked by the trigger event in the other of the first and the second operating modes. |
| US09182831B2 |
System and method for implementing sliding input of text based upon on-screen soft keyboard on electronic equipment
A system for implementing the sliding input of a text based upon an on-screen soft keyboard on an electronic equipment is provided, and the system comprises a feature lexicon module, a feature lexicon establishment module, a user interface module, a sliding trajectory feature extraction module, a rough classifying and filtering module, a rough matching and filtering module and an accurate matching and sorting module. A method for implementing the sliding input of a text based upon an on-screen soft keyboard on an electronic equipment according to the system is also provided. The system and the method for implementing the sliding input of a text based upon an on-screen soft keyboard on an electronic equipment not only can ensure a speed, but also can input a word according to the preorder trajectory of the input portion, and cleverly use a forecasting-between-slidings input, decrease a sliding distance, effectively improve the input speed and accuracy of words, reduce the operation complexity of users, which realize a simple implementation process, convenient and fast utilization, stable and reliable working performance and an extensive applicable scope, bringing the work and life of people huge convenience. |
| US09182830B2 |
Speed typing apparatus
A keyboard is provided having 26 letters assigned to only 16 to 21 keys, and preferably 21 keys. This advantageous system of typing makes use of either one or two hands. The 26 letters of the English alphabet are all displayed. Five keys have two letters—those letters are PQ, JK, UW, VX and YZ for a total of ten letters. Sixteen keys have one letter assigned to each key—namely the letters A, B, C, D, E, F, G, H, I, L, M, O, N, R, S and T for a total of sixteen letters assigned to a specific key—for a total of 26 letters. |
| US09182827B2 |
Information processing apparatus, image display apparatus, and information processing method
According to an illustrative embodiment an information processing apparatus is provided. The apparatus includes a processor for controlling the displaying of a display object including a main display and an attached information display, and for controlling changing a display state of the attached information display based on movement of a viewer. |
| US09182825B2 |
Input device comprising a touch-sensitive input surface
Input device has a touch sensitive input surface with a sensor for detecting the position of an object touching the input surface, an interface for transferring sensor data and a device for producing haptically detectable feedback, which is designed to move the input surface, which is mounted so as to be movable along an axis. |
| US09182819B2 |
Eye gaze tracking method and apparatus and computer-readable recording medium
A method and an apparatus of tracking an eye gaze to determine where a gaze point of a user is located on a display unit of a device, based on a facial pose and a position of an iris center, are provided. The method includes detecting a facial feature in a captured initial image, three-dimensionally modeling the detected facial feature, tracking the three-dimensionally modeled facial feature in consecutively captured images, detecting an iris center in the consecutively captured images, acquiring an eye gaze vector based on the tracked three-dimensionally modeled facial feature and the detected iris center, and acquiring a gaze point on a display unit based on the eye gaze vector. |
| US09182814B2 |
Systems and methods for estimating a non-visible or occluded body part
A depth image of a scene may be received, observed, or captured by a device. The depth image may include a human target that may have, for example, a portion thereof non-visible or occluded. For example, a user may be turned such that a body part may not be visible to the device, may have one or more body parts partially outside a field of view of the device, may have a body part or a portion of a body part behind another body part or object, or the like such that the human target associated with the user may also have a portion body part or a body part non-visible or occluded in the depth image. A position or location of the non-visible or occluded portion or body part of the human target associated with the user may then be estimated. |
| US09182810B2 |
Domain specific language, compiler and JIT for dynamic power management
The aspects enable a computing device or microprocessor to determine a low-power mode that maximizes system power savings by placing selected resources in a low power mode while continuing to function reliably, depending upon the resources not in use, acceptable system latencies, dynamic operating conditions (e.g., temperature), expected idle time, and the unique electrical characteristics of the particular device. The various aspects provide mechanisms and methods for compiling a plurality of low power resource modes to generate one or more synthetic low power resources from which can be selected an optimal low-power mode configuration made up of a set of selected synthetic low power resources. |
| US09182808B1 |
Low-power network stacks and driver subsets
The present disclosure describes apparatuses and techniques for low-power alternate firmware. In some aspects, data packets are received from a network interface via a reduced-feature-set network stack implemented on a subset of hardware. The reduced-feature-set network stack is used to respond to some of the data packets. When a determination is made that the reduced-feature-set network stack is not capable of responding to others of the data packets, an increased-feature-set network stack is implemented via another subset of the hardware. |
| US09182806B2 |
Preventing flow of current from sub-CPU to main-CPU during power saving mode in an image forming apparatus
An electronic device, comprising: an execution unit which executes a predetermined function; a first control unit that has an input terminal and causes the execution unit to execute the predetermined function; a power source unit that supplies power at least to the first control unit; and a second control unit that has an output terminal connected to the input terminal of the first control unit via a signal line, operates to output a signal to the first control unit via the signal line, and causes the power source unit to cut off power supply to the first control unit, and wherein the second control unit keeps a potential of the signal line at a reference level lower than or equal to a predetermined threshold while the second control unit causes the power source unit to cut off power supply to the first control unit. |
| US09182800B2 |
Method, system, and apparatus for dynamic thermal management
A method, apparatus, article of manufacture, and system, the method including, in some embodiments, processing a computational load by a first core of a multi-core processor, and dynamically distributing at least a portion of the computational load to a second core of the multi-core processor to reduce a power density of the multi-core processor for the processing of the computational load. |
| US09182786B2 |
System comprising a docking station and a handheld device
A system includes a docking station and a handheld device. The docking station has four walls and a bathtub shape following the contours of the handheld device tightly. The inner part of the four walls is curved so that the handheld device is guided during docking. |
| US09182779B1 |
Jitter compensated numerically controlled oscillator
A method for compensating NCO jitter by changing a step value used to increment an accumulator in the NCO to make up for inaccuracies, or jitters. In one approach, a remainder in the accumulator may be monitored and a compensated clock close to the current edge of an ideal clock may be generated. In another approach, a compensated clock close to the next edge of the ideal clock may be generated after the current edge of the ideal clock is missed. The step value may be stored in a memory, which may be a register. A jitter compensator may include a comparator for monitoring the remainder in the accumulator or a detector for detecting whether an ideal clock has been missed. The jitter compensator may also change the step value to a step value for a faster clock to compensate jitter. |
| US09182778B2 |
Signal processors and methods for estimating transformations between signals with least squares
Signal processing devices and methods estimate transforms between signals using a least squares technique. From a seed set of transform candidates, a direct least squares method applies a seed transform candidate to a reference signal and then measures correlation between the transformed reference signal and a suspect signal. For each candidate, update coordinates of reference signal features are identified in the suspect signal and provided as input to a least squares method to compute an update to the transform candidate. The method iterates so long as the update of the transform provides a better correlation. At the end of the process, the method identifies a transform or set of top transforms based on a further analysis of correlation, as well as other results. |
| US09182770B2 |
Voltage regulator
A voltage regulator includes a current bridge and first and second current paths coupling a current mirror to respective first and second voltage-to-current converters. The current mirror controls a second current dependent on a first current. The first voltage-to-current converter controls the first current dependent on either a reference voltage or a feedback voltage derived from the regulator's output voltage, and the second voltage-to-current converter controls the second current dependent on the other of the feedback and reference voltages. Voltage-to-current conversion by the first converter is independent of voltage-to-current conversion by the second converter. An output transistor stage coupled to the second current path controls the output voltage dependent on the voltage in the second current path indicative of a deviation of the second current from a target current value dependent on the reference voltage. |
| US09182768B2 |
Voltage optimization circuit and managing voltage margins of an integrated circuit
A voltage margin controller, an IC included the same and a method of controlling voltage margin for a voltage domain of an IC are disclosed herein. In one embodiment, the voltage margin controller includes: (1) monitoring branches including circuit function indicators configured to indicate whether circuitry in the voltage domain could operate at corresponding candidate reduced voltage levels and (2) a voltage margin adjuster coupled to the monitoring branches and configured to develop a voltage margin adjustment for a voltage regulator of the voltage domain based upon an operating number of the circuit function indicators. |
| US09182767B2 |
Devices and methods for calibrating and operating a snapback clamp circuit
A device includes a snapback clamp circuit configured to clamp a supply voltage in response to the supply voltage exceeding a trigger voltage level. In at least one embodiment, the snapback clamp circuit includes a clamp transistor and a programmable resistance portion that is responsive to a control signal to calibrate the trigger voltage level. Alternatively or in addition, the snapback clamp circuit may include a programmable bias device configured to calibrate the trigger voltage level by biasing a gate terminal of the clamp transistor. In another particular embodiment, a method of calibrating a snapback clamp circuit is disclosed. In another particular embodiment, a method of operating an integrated circuit is disclosed. |
| US09182765B2 |
System and method for automatically adjusting the dosage of feed products in a livestock feed recipe
A system to adjust a predetermined dosage of main livestock feed products in a predetermined feed recipe, which includes one or more feed dosages, each indicative of a predetermined amount of a corresponding main feed product in said feed recipe. The system includes a memory for storing the recipe, a meteorological monitoring system suitable for determining one or more meteorological parameters in the storage areas of the feed products and a processing unit, configured to: determine a first value indicative of the humidity in each feed product as a function of meteorological parameters associated with the related storage area, determine a differential value indicative of the difference between the first value and a second value indicative of a reference humidity of said feed product, and adjust the feed dosage associated with each feed product in the recipe based on the differential value of humidity in the main feed product. |
| US09182758B1 |
Computer-implemented system and method for capability zone-based manufacturing quality control
A computer-implemented system and method for capability zone-based manufacturing quality control are provided. A specification for manufacturing a part feature is obtained, the specification including a nominal and a tolerance. A plurality of measurements for the feature are obtained. A difference is determined between the nominal and each of the measurements. The difference for each of the measurements is compared to the tolerance. Each of the measurements is assigned into one of a plurality of capability zones of measurements based on the comparison. Visual representations of the capability zones into which the measurements were assigned are displayed. |
| US09182757B2 |
Methods and apparatus to transmit device description files to a host
Example methods and apparatus to transmit device description files to a host are disclosed. A disclosed example method includes communicatively coupling a field device to the host to provision the field device within a process control system, receiving an indication that the host does not include a version of a device description file that corresponds to a version of the field device, accessing the device description file from a memory of the field device, and transmitting the device description file from the field device to the host. |
| US09182754B2 |
Method and apparatus for analogue output current control
This invention relates to an apparatus and method for output current control in an Industrial Process Control System, The output module comprises two management units each of which calculates the current demand for the module independently from one another. One management unit controls an output current controller whilst the other unit monitors the current produced by the output current controller against an independently calculated demand. The output module has multiple output modules. However rather than one module providing a backup for the other modules, or alternating between use of each module, in normal operation, each module provides a portion of the required output current, the total output current being equal to the sum of the currents output by each module. In the event of failure on one of the modules, the other module or modules switch to providing the total current required. |
| US09182750B2 |
System and method of a bed with a safety stop
The present disclosure concerns an adjustable bed facility including a system for executing a computer-based safety-action during a motor-actuated adjustable bed position adjustment, comprising an adjustable bed facility comprising a computer-based controller, an actuator, and a sensor, the computer-based controller providing control of adjustable bed position adjustments, the actuator configured to adjust a height of the adjustable bed facility upon receiving a height-adjustment command from the computer-based controller, and the sensor for determining an actuator action parameter measured value of the actuator, the computer-based controller in communicative connection with the sensor to monitor and compare the motor action parameter measured value to an actuator action parameter normal operation value range, and when the controller determines the monitored motor action parameter measured value is outside the range of the actuator action parameter normal operation value range the controller sends a safety-action command to the actuator. |
| US09182748B2 |
RFID access control reader with enhancements
Systems are described herein for providing card reader configuration and access control, including a card reader, a remote computing device, and a communications network coupled to the card reader and the remote computing device. The card reader is configured to connect to the remote computing device via the communications network, transmit a request to the remote computing device via the communications network, receive data from the remote computing device via the communications network, and configure operational settings based on the received data. The remote computing device is configured to receive the request from the card reader via the communications network, generate data responsive to the request, and transmit the data to the card reader via the communications network. |
| US09182746B2 |
Stepping motor control circuit, movement and analog electronic timepiece
A stepping motor control circuit includes: a rotation detection unit that detects a induced signal exceeding a predetermined reference threshold voltage which is generated by a stepping motor in a detection section divided into at least three sections, and detects a rotation state on the basis of a pattern indicating whether the induced signal exceeding a reference threshold voltage is detected in each of the sections; and a control unit that selects a main drive pulse depending on the rotation state detected by the rotation detection unit from a plurality of main drive pulses which are different from each other in energy, and drives the stepping motor. When the induced signal exceeding a reference threshold voltage is not detected in an initial section, the rotation detection unit detects the induced signal by shifting an end position of at least one section other than the initial section to a rear side by a predetermined amount. |
| US09182733B2 |
Developer supply cartridge, process cartridge and image forming apparatus
A developer supply cartridge detachably mountable to a main assembly of an image forming apparatus includes: a developer accommodating portion; a shutter portion movable between a closed position and an open position; and a movable portion for moving the shutter portion. The movable portion is movable between a first position where the shutter portion is positioned in the closed position. When the movable portion is positioned in a position other than a first position provided in an apparatus main assembly side of an image forming apparatus before being engaged with the first engaging portion, the movable portion is moved, until being engaged with the first engaging portion, to the first position by engagement thereof with a second engaging portion provided in the accommodate main assembly side. |
| US09182729B2 |
Image forming apparatus having resin frame for supporting photosensitive drum
An image forming apparatus including an image forming unit, a first frame, and a first beam, is provided. The image forming unit includes a photosensitive drum which is rotatable about a rotation axis and a developer device which supplies developer agent to the photosensitive drum. The first frame is made of resin and formed in a shape of a plate. The first frame is arranged on one end, along an axial direction of the rotation axis of the photosensitive drum, of the image forming unit. The first beam is formed in an elongated shape. The first beam is arranged along and fixed to a planar face of the first frame. The first beam includes a resilient part configured to be resiliently deformable in a direction orthogonal to the planar face of the first frame. |
| US09182724B2 |
Carrier device and image-forming device
A carrier device includes: a circular belt made of a breathable nonwoven fabric; plural rolls on which the belt is hung so that the rolls contact a surface of an inner circumference of the belt, that causes the belt to rotate; and a decompression unit that reduces pressure in an area surrounded by the belt. |
| US09182723B2 |
Image forming apparatus
A stapling section staples a sheet has an opening. The opening has a first open side facing a moving direction of a recording medium moved by the medium moving section and a second open side extending along the moving direction. A shutter is near the second open side in the stapling section. The shutter has a first end axially supported in a freely rotatable manner on an upstream side in the moving direction for arranging the sheet at the stapling position, and a second end portion that hangs down toward the downstream side in the moving direction. When the sheet is not in the stapling section, the second end of the shutter hangs down to block the second open side. When the sheet enters the stapling section through the opening section, the second end of the shutter is pushed up by the axially supported end as the support shaft. |
| US09182722B2 |
Image forming system and control method for the same
A serial tandem image forming system is described which is capable of inhibiting both the degradation of image quality and the reduction of the productivity. This system consists mainly of the control units of upstream and downstream apparatuses. When a preceding sheet differs from the subsequent sheet in sheet type, a control unit for controlling the image forming system has the subsequent sheet stand by at a paper stop roller of the upstream apparatus, and performs the operation of switching the operating states of the upstream and downstream apparatuses in accordance with the sheet type of the subsequent sheet. Also, the control unit predicts the timing of finishing the switching of the operating state, and then re-starts the conveyance of the subsequent sheet, in advance of finishing the switching of the operating state, by controlling the paper stop roller on the basis of the predicted finishing timing. |
| US09182719B2 |
Moving device assembly and image forming apparatus including the moving device assembly
A moving device assembly includes a moving device and a shield. The moving device is movable between a first position and a second position, to move a detector including a detection surface relative to an opposing member disposed opposite the detector. The shield shields the detection surface of the detector. As the moving device is at the first position, the detector is at a proximal position at which the detector is near the opposing member, and as the moving device is at the second position, the detector is at a shield position at which the detector is separated from the opposing member and the detection surface of the detector is shielded by the shield. |
| US09182713B2 |
Fixing apparatus
In one aspect of the invention, a fixing apparatus that heats a recording material having a toner image while conveying the recording material at a nip portion to make the toner image fix onto the recording material includes a cylindrical belt having a heat generating layer that generates heat by being energized and a contact for supplying electricity to the heat generating layer. The contact is in contact with one of an outer surface and an inner surface of an end of the belt in the generatrix direction of the belt. An electrically conductive layer is provided, along the direction of rotation of the belt, on a surface of the heat generating layer opposite to a surface of the heat generating layer at which the contact is present. |
| US09182712B2 |
Fixing device and image forming apparatus
A fixing device includes an endless fixing belt, a first roller provided on an inner circumference side of the fixing belt, a second roller provided on the inner circumference side of the fixing belt and located upstream of the first roller in a conveying direction of a recording medium, a heat source provided on the inner circumference side of the fixing belt, a first reflecting portion provided between the heat source and the first roller, and a second reflecting portion provided between the heat source and the second roller. The second reflecting portion is provided apart from the first reflecting portion. |
| US09182710B2 |
Fixing device including a separation unit and image forming apparatus thereof
A fixing device includes a fixing member, a heating device for heating the fixing member, a pressure member, and a separation unit. The pressure member is pressed against the fixing member to form a fixing nip for receiving a recording medium carrying an unfixed toner image and fixing the unfixed toner image on the recording medium. The separation unit has a surface facing the fixing member and having an opening therein. The separation unit includes a separation member and a removable rubbing member. The separation member disposed in the opening in the separation unit to be located near an exit of the fixing nip separates the recording medium from the fixing member. The rubbing member is housed in the separation unit and contactable with the fixing member through the opening in the separation unit, and rubs against a surface of the fixing member. |
| US09182709B2 |
Fixing device, image forming apparatus with same, and method of assembling fixing device
A fixing device fixes a toner image on a recording medium transported to a fixing nip by applying pressure and heat to the recording medium. The fixing device includes an endless belt formed into a loop with both ends bonded together, the belt accommodating a heat source inside thereof, a pressing roller rotating in contact with the endless belt forming the fixing nip between the endless belt and the pressing roller, and a fixed member provided inside a loop of the endless belt to press the endless belt against a pressing roller. A reinforcing member is bonded to the fixed member inside the loop of the endless belt to reinforce the fixed member. A reflector is provided to reflect light emitted from the heat source toward the inner circumferential surface of the endless belt. The reflector is held on the reinforcing member by either plastically or elastically deforming by itself. |
| US09182708B2 |
High-voltage generation apparatus
A high-voltage generation apparatus raises, when switching from a state where a voltage having a predetermined polarity is output to a state where a voltage having a polarity opposite to the predetermined polarity is output, the voltage having the predetermined polarity in change amounts corresponding to the voltage having the predetermined polarity and a target voltage having the opposite polarity in a transient-state period elapsed until the voltage reaches the target voltage. |
| US09182702B2 |
Toner case for image forming apparatus
An image forming apparatus includes a toner container. The toner container includes an opening/closing portion and an operation portion. The image forming apparatus includes a drive transmission portion and a detection portion. When the lever of the operation portion is swingingly operated, the operation driving force of the operation is transmitted to the opening/closing portion via a first rotation portion and a second rotation portion. This allows a shutter cylinder to move from a closing position to an opening position. In addition, when the second rotation portion is rotated, a detected bar of the detection portion moves from a second position to a first position. The detection portion detects that a toner discharge outlet is opened, by detecting that the detected bar has moved to the first position. |
| US09182699B2 |
Developing device, process cartridge, and image forming apparatus
A developing device causes toner to be discharged from a foam layer by an intrusion member configured to intrude into the foam layer of a supply roller, and to be supplied to above a contact region between a developing roller and the supply roller. |
| US09182698B2 |
Method of transferring image and image transferring system and image forming apparatus with same
A method of transferring an image includes the steps of; bringing an image bearer bearing an image thereon as a transfer origin in contact with a transferring objective (onto which the image is transferred) as a transfer destination; moving at least one of the image bearer and the transferring objective in a prescribed direction; and sequentially transferring the image borne on the image bearer onto the transferring objective in a contacting section in which the image bearer and the transferring objective contact each other in a direction in which the image does not pass through the contacting section. |
| US09182697B2 |
Method of printing by wet electrophotography
Recording sheet for wet electrophotography, having excellent toner fixability and transferability when printing is carried out by using a wet electrophotographic system employing a wet toner. The recording sheet for wet electrophotography is a recording sheet to be used in a wet electrophotographic system wherein an image is transferred from a heated blanket roll to a recording sheet. The recording sheet comprises a substrate and a toner receiving layer provided thereon containing inorganic fine particles and having a pore volume with a pore radius of 100 nanometers or less measured by a nitrogen adsorption method of 0.3 mL/g or more. |
| US09182696B2 |
Magnetic toner for developing electrostatic latent image
A magnetic toner for developing an electrostatic latent image of the present disclosure includes toner particles each having a toner core containing a binder resin and a magnetic powder, and a shell layer coating a surface of the toner core. The shell layer contains a unit derived from a monomer of a thermosetting resin and a unit derived from a thermoplastic resin. The thermosetting resin is one or more resins selected from the group of amino resins consisting of a melamine resin, a urea resin, and a glyoxal resin. The amount of iron eluted from the toner core (iron concentration in a filtrate) measured by a specified method is 10 mg/L or less. |
| US09182695B2 |
External additive for toner, toner covered with external additive, development agent, toner container, and image forming apparatus
An external additive for toner that contains a resin particle and two or more kinds of particulates having different compositions present on the resin particle. |
| US09182694B2 |
Toner, image forming apparatus, image forming method, and process cartridge
A toner, including: a binder resin; and a colorant, wherein the binder resin contains: a crystalline polyester resin (A); a non-crystalline resin (B); and a composite resin (C), where the composite resin (C) contains a condensation polymerization resin unit and an addition polymerization resin unit, wherein the toner contains chloroform insoluble matter in an amount of 1% by mass to 30% by mass, wherein the toner has a molecular weight distribution having a main peak in a range of 1,000 to 10,000 and a half width of 15,000 or less, where the molecular weight distribution is obtained through gel permeation chromatography (GPC) of tetrahydrofuran soluble matter of the toner, and wherein the toner has an endothermic peak in a range of 90° C. to 130° C. in measurement through differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). |
| US09182690B1 |
Reducing toning spacing sensitivity
A method for reducing toning spacing sensitivity in an electrophotographic process is disclosed. The method includes providing a rotating magnetic member within a conductive non-magnetic development sleeve; providing a developer to the non-magnetic development sleeve for use with the rotating magnetic member including: i) hard magnetic particles with a coercivity of greater than 300 oersted and an induced moment of less than 20 emu per gram at an applied field of 1000 oersted; and ii) soft magnetic particles with a coercivity of less than 300 oersted and an induced moment of greater than 20 emu per gram an applied field of 1000 oersted; and iii) toner particles. The method further includes moving a charged receiving medium into a toner transfer relationship with the developer on the non-magnetic development sleeve so as to provide a developed image on the receiving medium with reduced toning spacing sensitivity. |
| US09182684B2 |
Exposure apparatus, exposure method, and method for producing device
An exposure apparatus having a projection system with a final element projects exposure light to an upper surface of a substrate through liquid between the final element and the substrate upper surface. A liquid confinement member has a recovery outlet via which the liquid is removed along with gas, the recovery outlet being arranged such that the substrate upper surface faces the recovery outlet, the recovery outlet surrounding a path of the exposure light and the liquid confinement member confining the liquid to an area that is smaller than an area of the substrate upper surface by removing the liquid from a gap between the confinement member and the substrate upper surface. A first support member supports the projection system, and a second support member supports the liquid confinement member. An anti-vibration system limits vibrations from being transmitted from the second support member to the projection system. |
| US09182678B2 |
Lithographic apparatus and device manufacturing method
A lithographic apparatus includes a projection system configured to project a patterned radiation beam onto a target portion of a substrate. The projection system has a final element. The apparatus also includes a barrier member surrounding a space between the projection system and, in use, the substrate, to define in part with the final element a reservoir for liquid. The barrier member is spaced from the final element to define a gap therebetween. The apparatus further includes a deformable seal between a radially outer surface of the final element and a radially outer surface of the barrier member. The deformable seal is configured to substantially prevent a gas from flowing past the seal towards or away from the reservoir of liquid. |
| US09182673B2 |
Method for providing a template for a self-assemblable polymer for use in device lithography
Methods are disclosed for depositing a template for directed self-assembly of a self-assemblable block polymer on a surface of a substrate. The method involves providing a chemical epitaxy pattern of alternating first and second regions having differing chemical affinities for first and second blocks of the polymer on the surface by photolithography, and providing spaced graphoepitaxy features on the surface by photolithography. The chemical epitaxy pattern is aligned with and located between pairs of spaced graphoepitaxy features. The spaced graphoepitaxy features and chemical epitaxy pattern are arranged to act together to direct self-assembly of the self-assemblable block copolymer. The resulting template may be used to direct self-assembly of a suitable self-assemblable polymer and the resulting aligned and oriented self-assembled polymer may itself be used as a resist for lithography of the substrate. |
| US09182668B2 |
Patterning process, resist composition, polymer, and monomer
A negative pattern is formed by applying a resist composition onto a substrate, prebaking, exposing to high-energy radiation, PEB, and developing the exposed resist film in an organic solvent developer to dissolve the unexposed region of resist film. The resist composition is based on a polymer comprising recurring units (a1) of formula (1) wherein R1 is H or CH3, R2 and R3 are H, F or a monovalent hydrocarbon group, R4 is H or a monovalent hydrocarbon group, R5 and R6 are a monovalent hydrocarbon group, X1 is a divalent hydrocarbon group, and k1=0 or 1. A fine hole or trench pattern can be formed therefrom. |
| US09182657B2 |
Method and apparatus for capturing, geolocating and measuring oblique images
A computerized system for displaying and making measurements based upon captured oblique images. The system includes an image-capturing device capturing oblique aerial images at image-capturing events and issuing image-data signals corresponding to captured images; at least one geo-locating device issuing a corresponding at least one geo-locating signal indicative at least in part of a geo-location of said image-capturing device during each image capturing event; a computer system receiving and storing said image-data signals and said at least one geo-locating signal; and the computer system executing image and data acquiring software reading the image-data signals and the at least one geo-locating signal, and associating each of the image-data signal with a corresponding at least one geo-locating signal for each image-capturing event. |
| US09182654B2 |
Hand held camera mount
A hand held camera unit comprises a shoulder assembly and a platform assembly for releasably holding a camera. A connector is provided between the shoulder assembly and the platform assembly, and is movable between a locked position wherein the platform assembly is fixed relative to the shoulder assembly and an unlocked position wherein the platform assembly can be selectively moved relative to the shoulder assembly in the roll axis, the yaw axis and in a fore and aft direction. |
| US09182640B2 |
Display apparatus and method of manufacturing the same
A display apparatus includes a first insulating substrate on which pixels are arranged and a second insulating substrate facing the first insulating substrate. Each pixel includes a gate electrode disposed on the first insulating substrate, a gate insulating layer disposed on the first insulating substrate to cover the gate electrode, a semiconductor pattern disposed on the gate insulating layer to overlap with the gate electrode, a source electrode and a drain electrode disposed on the semiconductor pattern, a transparent pixel electrode disposed on the gate insulating layer and partially making contact with the drain electrode, a protective layer disposed on the pixel electrode, and a common electrode disposed on the first insulating substrate or the second insulating substrate to form an electric field together with the pixel electrode. |
| US09182636B2 |
Pixel cell and active matrix liquid crystal display
A pixel cell and an active matrix liquid crystal display are disclosed. The pixel cell includes a first scanning line, a second scanning line, and a thin film transistor set. The thin film transistor set includes a first thin film transistor and a second thin film transistor. The parasitic capacitance Cgd of the thin film transistor set satisfies the equation: Cgd=C1+C2. Wherein the change in capacitance of both c1 and c2 are inverse to each other by the same amount such that summation of a value of capacitance change in both c1 and c2 is equal to zero. In this way, the display detects result from different values of the parasitic capacitance of the pixel cells in different locations are overcome. |
| US09182635B2 |
Liquid crystal display device with larger cell gap formed outside display area
A liquid crystal display device includes: a pair of substrates that are bonded together with a sealing member having a closed loop shape that is formed around a display region with a space maintained from the display region; and a liquid crystal layer that is disposed between the pair of substrates so as to maintain a cell gap of a predetermined thickness, wherein, between the display region and the sealing member, a cell thick area, in which a cell gap larger than the cell gap of the display region is formed, is formed. |
| US09182629B2 |
LED backlight source drive circuit, LED backlight source and liquid crystal display device
An LED backlight source drive circuit, an LED backlight source and a liquid crystal display device are provided. LED backlight source drive circuit includes a voltage input terminal, a coupling module, and a rectifier module. The coupling module is connected to the voltage input terminal for receiving a current complying with a total working voltage of two power consumption modules from the voltage input terminal, and converting the current into a current complying with a working voltage of one power consumption module. The rectifier module is connected to the coupling module for inputting the current complying with the working voltage of one power consumption module into two serially-connected power consumption modules, thereby supplying power to the power consumption modules. The LED backlight source and the liquid crystal display device include two power consumption modules and the above LED backlight source drive circuit. |
| US09182628B2 |
Two dimension/three dimension switchable liquid crystal lens assembly
The present invention discloses a 2D/3D switchable liquid crystal lens assembly. The liquid crystal lens assembly from an emitting surface to an incident surface sequentially includes a plurality of adjacently arranged elongated convex lenses, a first transparent substrate, a second transparent substrate, a plurality of electrodes disposed on the second transparent substrate, and a liquid crystal layer sandwiched between the first and second transparent substrates. The plurality of electrodes are used for controlling an alignment of liquid crystal molecules inside the liquid crystal layer so as to adjust a refractive index of the liquid crystal molecules inside the liquid crystal layer corresponding to at least one pixel. The refractive index progressively increase or progressively decrease from a center toward both sides to control a propagation direction of incident light and guide the passed incident light to one of the convex lenses. |
| US09182626B2 |
Converting color in liquid crystal display device having different color filter arrangements for odd and even horizontal lines
A liquid crystal display device is disclosed. The liquid crystal display device includes: a liquid crystal display panel configured to include color filters arranged to have different color arrangement in odd and even horizontal lines, and to display an image; an input portion configured to input data for pixels opposite to the color filters of the odd and even numbered horizontal lines; a data converter configured to compensate for the input data from the input portion using rendering filter values which are differently set according to the odd and even horizontal lines; a controller configured to re-arrange the compensated data from the data converter into a suitable format for the liquid crystal display panel; and a data driver configured to apply the re-arranged data from the controller to the liquid crystal display panel and drive the liquid crystal display panel. |
| US09182624B2 |
Liquid crystal cell
The present application relates to a liquid crystal cell, a method for preparing a liquid crystal cell and a display device. An exemplary liquid crystal cell may be applied to various types of display devices so as to control a viewing angle or light transmittance of the display device. |
| US09182623B2 |
Liquid crystal display and manufacturing method thereof
A process for manufacturing a liquid crystal display panel comprises: mixing negative liquid crystals, UV polymerizable monomers, and a photoinitiator to obtain a liquid crystal mixture; sealing the liquid crystal mixture in a liquid crystal cell formed from an array substrate and an opposed substrate to form the liquid crystal display panel; and radiating the liquid crystal display panel using UV light and heating the liquid crystal panel. |
| US09182622B2 |
Thermal carrier for an LCOS display panel and associated methods
A thermal carrier and method control a temperature of an LCOS display panel. The temperature of the LCOS display panel is determined. Electrical power to a heating element within a thermal carrier carrying the LCOS display panel is increased when the temperature of the LCOS display panel is below a first temperature threshold and electrical power to the heating element is decreased when the temperature of the LCOS display panel is above a second temperature threshold. |
| US09182620B1 |
Curvature adjustment structure of curved liquid crystal display device
The present invention provides a curvature adjustment structure of a curved liquid crystal display device, which includes: a backplane (1), at least one threaded rod (3) fixedly mounted to the backplane (1), a rack (5) arranged to correspond to the threaded rod (3) and having two ends positioned against the backplane (1), and an adjustment nut (7) in threading engagement with the threaded rod (3). The threaded rod (3) extends through the rack (5) and then mates the adjustment nut (7), whereby by rotating the adjustment nut (7) to compress or release the rack (5), the rack (5) is caused to compress or release the backplane (1) so as to achieve the adjustment of the curvature of the backplane (1). The adjustment of the curvature of the curved liquid crystal display device is made easy, improving the product appeal to the market and simplifying the structure to make it easy to make. |
| US09182615B2 |
Particles for electrophoretic displays
This invention relates to polymer particles with surface functionality for charge retention, a process for their preparation, the use of these particles for the preparation of an electrophoretic device, electrophoretic displays comprising such particle, and new polymerisable dyes. |
| US09182614B2 |
Large-area transmissive type optical image modulator and method of manufacturing the same and optical apparatus including transmissive type optical image modulator
A large-area transmissive type optical image modulator, a method of manufacturing the same, and an optical apparatus including the transmissive type optical image modulator are provided. The large-area transmissive type optical image modulator includes: a base substrate; a first expitaxial layer formed on the base substrate; a second expitaxial layer formed on the first expitaxial layer; a first electrode formed on the first expitaxial layer and spaced apart from the second expitaxial layer; a second electrode formed on the second expitaxial layer; and a transparent substrate covering the second expitaxial layer and the second electrode, wherein the base substrate includes a through hole corresponding to a light emitting area, and the first expitaxial layer may include an n-type or p-type doping material. |
| US09182613B2 |
Apparatus and method for activation of components of an energized ophthalmic lens
This present invention provides apparatus and methods for the activation of an energized ophthalmic lens. In some embodiments, the present invention provides for activation and deactivation of one or more components via wireless communication with an activation unit external to the ophthalmic lens. In some embodiments, an energized ophthalmic lens contains components that detect external signals, process the detected signal and activate components that change optical characteristics via the control of electrical energy. |
| US09182612B2 |
System for fastening bridge and temples in the manufacture of eyeglasses
The invention relates to a system for fastening the bridge (30) or the hinge elements (10, 20) connecting the temples (A) to the lenses (L) of eyeglasses, where the ends of the bridge (30), as well as each of the ends (12, 22) of the temple connecting hinge elements (10, 20) which is directed towards the respective lens is furnished with a respective fork-shaped structure, with at least one pair of prongs (33-34, 36-37, 13-14, 23-24) lying in the plane at right angles to the plane of the lenses and where each lens is provided with holes (61-62, 63-64) located at the points of connection with the ends of the bridge (30) and/or of the temple connecting hinge elements (10, 20). The holes are equal in number to the number of prongs on the respective fork-shaped structures and comprise, inside them, respective tubular sleeves (53, 54). The prongs of each fork-shaped structure are pressed into the tubular sleeves, are flat, and have lateral walls (13a-13b, 14a-14b, 23a-23b, 24a-24b, 33a-33b, 34a-34b, 36a-36b, 37a-38a) which are flat and smooth and other walls which are knurled. |
| US09182611B2 |
Lens barrel
A lens barrel (1) comprises an actuator (430), and an image blurring correction device (500) provided near the actuator (430). The image blurring correction device (500) has a magnetic sensor (524), a magnet (515), and a shield plate (514). The shield plate (514) comprises a main body (514a) that is opposite the magnet (515), and a protrusion (514b) that protrudes from the main body (514a). The main body (514a) is provided at a position through which pass lines of magnetic force generated from a first magnetic pole, out of the lines of magnetic force produced from the actuator (430). The protrusion (514b) is provided at a position through which pass lines of magnetic force generated from a second magnetic pole, out of the lines of magnetic force produced from the actuator (430). |
| US09182609B2 |
Projection-type display apparatus
An integrator includes a plurality of rectangular lens cells arranged in a direction x and a direction y. Laser light emitted from a laser source is projected onto an integrator. A beam irradiation position moving unit is configured to cause the laser light to scan the surface of the integrator in the directions x and y so that the laser light is sequentially projected onto a plurality of lens cells. A reflective liquid crystal device is configured to modulate the laser light emitted from the integrator. A projection lens is configured to project the laser light modulated by the reflective liquid crystal device. |
| US09182606B2 |
Rear-projection autostereoscopic 3D display system
A rear-projection 3D auto-stereoscopic displays system using time-sequencing approach is configured for forming a plurality of perspective views of 3D images of an object or scene in a field of view. 3D displays system comprises a display component, an optical scanning assembly a sensor and a controller. The optical scanning assembly includes a first lens array, a complex of two (second and third) lens arrays, an optical beam shifting device and an optical projection block. The complex of two lens arrays is used as a screen for the 3D display system. The present invention can be employed especially for a wide range of screen sizes and allows significant reduction or elimination of optical cross-talk, at the same time reducing mechanical complexity of 3D display system. |
| US09182604B2 |
Minimized-thickness angular scanner of electromagnetic radiation
A minimized-thickness angular scanner of electromagnetic radiation includes an optical sandwich having a two-dimensional (2D) image source, and a scanning assembly that includes a first optic and a second optic, wherein at least one of the first optic and the second optic are oscillatorily translating. Translation of the optics provides for generation of a three-dimensional (3D) image, while the optical sandwich design provides for compact implementation of 3D displays. |
| US09182603B2 |
Projector and image display system
A projector includes a light source that emits light containing first wavelength light and second wavelength light of which light intensity is lower than that of the first wavelength light when the light source is driven at predetermined electric power, a light separation unit that separates the light from the light source into the first and the second wavelength light, an image formation unit that modulates the first wavelength light in accordance with a first image and modulates the second wavelength light in accordance with a second image, a control unit that supplies the light source with first electric power when the first image is formed, whereas supplying the light source with second electric power that is higher than the first electric power when the second image is formed, and a projection unit that projects the first image and the second image. |
| US09182592B2 |
Optical filtering device, defect inspection method and apparatus therefor
An optical filtering device and an optical inspection apparatus for detecting a defect in a high sensitivity using an optical filtering device which includes a shutter array formed in a two-dimensionally on an optically opaque thin film produced on a SOI wafer and the SOI wafer is removed at portions thereof on the lower side of the shutter patterns to form perforation portions while working electrodes are formed at the remaining portion of the SOI wafer, a glass substrate having electrode patterns formed on the surface thereof and having the shutter array mounted thereon, and a power supply section for supplying electric power to the electrode patterns formed on the glass substrate and the working electrodes of the SOI wafer. And the working electrodes is controlled to cause the shutter patterns to carry out opening and closing movements with respect to the perforation portions to carry out optical filtering. |
| US09182590B2 |
Method for manufacturing electrowetting element and electrowetting display
The present invention relates to a method for manufacturing an electrowetting element, in which a first liquid material and a second liquid material having a surface energy which is lower than that of the first liquid material, which are not mixed together, are provided in a cell formed between a first substrate and a second substrate placed as facing; at least one of the first liquid material and the second liquid material is gelated or altered to have high viscosity; and the shape of the interface between the first liquid material and the second liquid material is changed by applying voltage in the cell. The method includes a step of stimulating at least one of the first liquid material and the second liquid material which is gelated or altered to have high viscosity, to alter one of the first liquid material and the second liquid material to have low viscosity. According to the present invention, an electrowetting element can be manufactured easily, and the electrowetting element manufactured by the present invention does not show increase of applied voltage, delay of operation and the like. |
| US09182589B2 |
Electrowetting display structures
The subject matter disclosed herein relates to an electrowetting display comprising: a transparent substrate including glass spacers surrounded by recessed regions corresponding to pixel regions, a layer of transparent conductive material on the glass spacers, color filter material in the recessed regions, and a transparent support plate covering the recessed regions and the glass spacers, wherein the transparent support plate includes an electrowetting oil. |
| US09182587B2 |
Manufacturing structure and process for compliant mechanisms
The invention relates, in various aspects, to systems and methods for MEMS actuated displays that can be driven at high speeds and at low voltages for improved image quality and reduced power consumption. |
| US09182586B2 |
Endoscope
An endoscope includes: a first objective lens that causes an image of a first object to be observed to be formed; a second objective lens that causes an image of a second object to be observed to be formed; a light guide that guides illuminating light from a light source to an insertion portion; a light distribution member that distributes light from the light guide between a first observation direction and a second observation direction; a light amount varying portion for changing light amount proportions with respect to light emitted in the first observation direction and light emitted in the second observation direction; a distance detection portion that measures a second distance between the second objective lens and an object to be observed in the second observation direction; and a control portion that controls the light amount varying portion based on a second distance signal. |
| US09182584B2 |
Method and system for evaluating stare-time by a pointing system
A method and system to evaluate stare-time of a selected target by a pointing system is provided. In an embodiment, the method includes specifying a time period for evaluation. A processor simulates movement of selected celestial bodies during the time period and movement of the platform during the time period. The processor further simulates pointing the pointing system in each celestial direction during the time period. The method calculates stare-time in each celestial direction uninterrupted by the selected celestial bodies and the platform during the time period. |
| US09182582B2 |
Observation device and method that performs compensation control as a first driving and a second driving
An observation device according to the present invention comprises a stage on which a fluid vessel containing therein an object to be observed such as a cell or microorganism is to be placed, an observing part observing the object to be observed, a driving part performing a stage driving for moving a position of the stage with respect to the observing part, and a control part controlling the stage driving performed by the driving part. The stage driving includes a moving mode for moving the stage toward a predetermined position and a stop process mode for performing a stop process of stopping the stage at the predetermined position, and the control part performs the stop process several times in the stop process mode, and controls the stage driving so that a velocity or an acceleration of the stage driving is common among the stop processes in the stop process mode. |
| US09182579B2 |
Device for taking long-distance images
A device for taking long-distance images includes, successively: a catadioptric optical system and an optical system to shape the beam positioned close to the first image generated by the catadioptric system, which adjusts the exit aperture of the catadioptric system on a second image of the aperture in an image space of a variable focal length optical system. The catadioptric optical system and the optical system to shape the beam generates a third image of the observed scene. A focal plane is superposed over an image plane of the catadioptric optical system and the optical system to shape the beam. A projection lens receives the light beam output by the variable focal length system and forms a fourth image of the observed scene at the focal plane of the projection lens. An image sensor is positioned at the focal plane of the projection lens. |
| US09182577B2 |
Variable direction of view instrument with distal image sensor
A viewing instrument having a variable direction of view is disclosed generally comprising a shaft, a sensor mounted in the distal end of the shaft such that the image plane of the sensor is substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the shaft, and a reflecting element that rotates about an axis substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the shaft. In some embodiments, a negative lens is mounted adjacent the reflecting element, and in certain embodiments, a positive lens is positioned adjacent the image sensor. |
| US09182576B2 |
Image pickup lens, image pickup device using same, and portable apparatus equipped with the image pickup device
The present invention provides an image pickup lens with a large focal depth from the center to the outer part of an image plane formed on an image sensor and capable of maintaining its focal depth within a practical range and thus suppressing a decline in the resolution. An image pickup lens 7 includes, in order from the object side to the image plane side, an aperture stop 5, a first lens 1 that is a biconvex lens having positive power, a second lens 2 that is a meniscus lens having negative power and whose lens surface facing the object side is convex, a third lens 3 that is a meniscus lens having positive power and whose lens surface facing the object side is concave, and a fourth lens 4 that is a biconcave lens having negative power. The image pickup lens 7 includes a multifocal lens on the lens surface of the first lens 1 facing the object side. D and Ymax satisfy the following conditional expression (1): 0≦D/Ymax≦0.1 (1) where D is an absolute value of the distance between the multifocal lens surface and a surface of the aperture stop on the optical axis, and Ymax is the absolute value of the maximum image height on an image plane formed on the image sensor. |
| US09182574B2 |
Infrared fixed-focus lens
The invention provides an infrared fixed-focus lens of which component lens pieces are made of germanium characterized by low chromatic dispersion, and have no surface processed to serve as diffraction optics. The infrared fixed-focus lens comprises a first lens piece disposed closer to an object and of negative power, and a second lens piece disposed closer to the image plane and of positive power. Both the first and second lens pieces are made of germanium. |
| US09182573B1 |
Imaging lens
An imaging lens includes an aperture stop and an optical assembly which includes: in order from an object side to an image side: a first lens element with a positive refractive power having a convex aspheric object-side surface and a concave aspheric image-side surface; a plastic second lens element with a positive refractive power having an aspheric object-side surface and a concave aspheric image-side surface; a plastic third lens element with a positive refractive power having aspheric object-side and image-side surfaces; a fourth lens element with a negative refractive power having a concave object-side surface and a convex image-side surface; a plastic fifth lens element with a positive refractive power having a convex aspheric object-side surface, a concave aspheric image-side surface and more than one inflection point. The imaging lens satisfies the following conditions: 0.3<(R5+R6)/(R5−R6)<1.15 and 1.2 |
| US09182571B2 |
Wide-angle imaging lens and imaging apparatus
An imaging lens is composed of a first lens having a negative meniscus shape with a convex surface on the object side, a negative second lens, a positive third lens, an aperture stop, a negative fourth lens, and a positive fifth lens disposed in order from the object side. The fourth and the fifth lens are cemented with an interface which is convex on the object side and has an aspherical shape. If the radius of curvature is taken as R9 and the focal length of the entire system is taken as f, the imaging lens satisfies a conditional expression given below: 1.0 |
| US09182570B2 |
Fish eye lens system and photographing apparatus including the same
A fish eye lens system and a photographing apparatus including the same, the fish eye lens system including, in an order from an object side to an image side: a first lens group having a negative refractive power; an aperture stop; and a second lens group having a positive refractive power, wherein the first lens group includes, in the order from the object side to the image side, a (1-A)-th lens group having a negative refractive power, a (1-B)-th lens group having a negative refractive power, and a (1-C)-th lens group including at least one positive lens, and wherein the (1-B)-th lens group is moved to perform focusing. |
| US09182569B2 |
Lens module
There is provided a lens module including: a first lens having refractive power and having a shape in which an image-side surface is concave; a second lens having refractive power; a third lens having positive refractive power; a fourth lens having positive refractive power; a fifth lens having negative refractive power; and a sixth lens having refractive power and having a point of inflection formed on an image-side surface thereof. |
| US09182567B2 |
Fiber optic connector with field installable outer connector housing and keyed ferrule hub
An optical connector includes a first sub-assembly that is factory-installed to a first end of an optical fiber and a second sub-assembly that is field-installed to the first end of the optical fiber. The optical fiber and first sub-assembly can be routed through a structure (e.g., a building) prior to installation of the second sub-assembly. The second sub-assembly interlocks with the first sub-assembly to inhibit relative axial movement therebetween. Example first sub-assemblies include a ferrule, a hub, and a strain-relief sleeve that mount to an optical fiber. Example second sub-assemblies include a mounting block; and an outer connector housing forming a plug portion. |
| US09182563B2 |
Adapter plate for fiber optic module
An adapter plate for use with a telecommunications module that is configured to be slidably inserted into a first type of telecommunications chassis comprises a body configured to be mounted to the telecommunications module. The body of the adapter plate includes structure for mounting the telecommunications module to a second type of telecommunications chassis that is different than the first type of telecommunications chassis, wherein the telecommunications module is not configured to be mounted to the second type of telecommunications chassis without the adapter plate. |
| US09182562B2 |
Armored flexible fiber optic assembly
The specification relates to a fiber optic cable assembly. The fiber optic cable assembly includes a non-interlocking armor, the non-interlocking armor is a spiral tube having an outside diameter of approximately 1.5 mm-5.5 mm, an inner diameter of approximately 0.75 mm-5.25 mm and a minimum bend radius of approximately 5 mm, the non-interlocking armor being formed from stainless steel; an inner jacket, the inner jacket having an outside diameter slightly less than the inner diameter of the non-interlocking armor; at least one fiber optic fiber; and a strengthening material, the strengthening material being made from aramid fibers and surrounding the at least one fiber optic fiber underneath the inner jacket. |
| US09182561B2 |
Optical fiber cable with cable heating element
An optical communication cable is provided. The optical communications cable includes a cable body having a first end, a second end, an outer surface, an inner surface and a channel defined by the inner surface and extending between the first end and the second end. The optical communications cable includes an optical transmission element located in the channel, and a resistive heating element extending at least a portion of the length of the cable body. The resistive heating element defines an electrically conductive path between first and second ends of the resistive heating element. The first and second ends of the resistive heating element are in electrical communication with an exterior of the optical communication cable and are configured to be coupled to a power source that can deliver current to heat the resistive heating element. |
| US09182555B2 |
Backplane optical connector
A backplane optical connector includes a first connector secured to a backplane and a second connector mounted on a daughter board. The first connector includes a first optical input-output part, guide holes, and a shutter. The shutter is a plate that covers the first optical input-output part when the daughter board is not inserted. The second connector includes guide pins, a pressing part, and a second optical input-output part. The guide pins first make contact with the first connector and are inserted into the guide holes. The pressing part pivots the shutter after degrees of freedom of the second connector are restricted by the guide pins and the guide holes. There is a space for accommodating the pivoted shutter between the pressing part and the second optical input-output part. The pressing part does not make contact with the first connector until the pressing part makes contact with the shutter. |
| US09182553B2 |
Optical switch activator with glowable member
An optical switch having a housing, and two optical fibers, that can be connected to a light source and a light detector. The optical switch includes a moveable member that moves from a first position to a second position. In the first position, an optical path is present through the two fibers guide using a reflection or emission of light from the glowable member. In the second position, there is no optical path present through the switch. |
| US09182552B2 |
Optical connections
Techniques related to optical devices are described herein. In an example, an optical device includes (a) an input optical channel and a corresponding output optical channel, and (b) an assembly of sub-wavelength grating layers aligned to optically couple the input optical channel to the output optical channel. |
| US09182551B2 |
Lens component and optical module provided with the same
A lens component has a element-side lens portion 65 which is provided so as to face a light emitting and receiving element 52 mounted on a circuit substrate 24, a positioning portion 75 that protrudes such that the element-side lens portion 65 is separated from the circuit substrate 24 by a predetermined distance, and an adhesion portion 76 that forms an adhesive-agent filling space S, which is filled with an adhesive agent 77, between the circuit substrate 24 and the adhesion portion 26, in a state where the positioning portion 75 contacts with the circuit substrate 24 and the element-side lens portion 65 is fixed so as to face the light emitting and receiving element 52. |
| US09182545B2 |
Wafer level optical device
Technologies are generally described for fabricating a wafer level optical device using a plurality of substrates made of materials with a substantially compatible (e.g., same or similar) thermal expansion coefficient. An example device may include a first substrate including light-receiving or light-emitting elements, and a second substrate including optical elements located within through-holes of the second substrate. The through-holes can be configured to substantially align each of the light-receiving or light-emitting elements with a corresponding one of the optical elements. A thermal expansion coefficient of the second substrate can be configured to be substantially the same to a thermal expansion coefficient of the first substrate. |
| US09182544B2 |
Fabrication of planar light-wave circuits (PLCS) for optical I/O
PLC architectures and fabrication techniques for providing electrical and photonic integration of a photonic components with a semiconductor substrate. In the exemplary embodiment, the PLC is to accommodate optical input and/or output (I/O) as well as electrically couple to a microelectronic chip. One or more photonic chip or optical fiber terminal may be coupled to an optical I/O of the PLC. In embodiments the PLC includes a light modulator, photodetector and coupling regions supporting the optical I/O. Spin-on electro-optic polymer (EOP) may be utilized for the modulator while a photodefinable material is employed for a mode expander in the coupling region. |
| US09182540B2 |
Device for homogenizing a laser-beam profile
A device for homogenizing a laser-beam profile and a method for focussing and homogenizing a laser beam in laser photocoagulation for coagulating organic tissue, for example in the eye of a living organism. |
| US09182537B2 |
Backlight unit and liquid crystal display device comprising the same
Disclosed are a backlight unit and a liquid crystal display device including the same with a light guide plate of a reduced size to enable driving at a low power and manufacture at a low cost despite using fewer light sources, and realizing high-brightness and high quality-driving. The backlight unit includes a lower case having a bottom surface and side walls extending upward extended from edges of the bottom surface. A supporter on the bottom surface is placed along a side surface of the side wall which forms an accommodation area in conjunction with the supporter. A light guide plate is disposed in the accommodation area. |
| US09182536B2 |
Light-source device and display device
A light source device has a light emitting element, a light guide plate which light from the light emitting element enters, and wiring which extends from the light emitting element side along the edge (a second side surface or a third side surface) of the light guide plate and supplies power to the light emitting element. The light guide plate has a stopper which is located on an arrangement side of the wiring from the light emitting element and which restricts movement of the light emitting element to the arrangement side of the wiring. |
| US09182535B2 |
Liquid crystal display device
Disclosed is an LCD device with reduced thickness and bezel width. The LCD device includes a liquid crystal display panel configured to include an upper substrate and a lower substrate that are facing-coupled to each other, a backlight unit configured to include a light guide plate which irradiates light incident from a light source module on the liquid crystal display panel and an optical sheet disposed on the light guide plate, and a coupling member configured to couple the liquid crystal display panel to the light guide plate with the optical sheet therebetween such that a sealed space is provided between the liquid crystal display panel and the light guide plate. |
| US09182531B2 |
Surface light guide and luminaire
In at least one embodiment of the surface light guide, the surface light guide includes at least one scattering element for scattering light. A decoupling coefficient is caused by the scattering element. The decoupling coefficient is set in a varying fashion along a main light-guiding direction. In a direction perpendicular to the main sides of the surface light guide, the opacity value is no more than 0.10, the transmission coefficient is at least 0.75 and the quotient of the minimum light density and maximum light density seen over a continuous emitting area of at least one of the main sides is at least 0.75. |
| US09182524B2 |
Autostereoscopic display system with one dimensional (1D) retroreflective screen
An autostereoscopic apparatus for providing a 3D image to a viewer at a range of vertical eye locations. The apparatus includes a projection screen with a light receiving surface that is horizontally retroreflective and vertically diffusive. The apparatus includes a projector assembly including at least two projectors arranged side-by-side such that projection lenses of the projectors are horizontally aligned in a row. The apparatus includes a controller selectively operating the projectors to project at least two differing point-of-view images. The projection screen may take a number of useful embodiments to implement the autostereoscopic apparatus. For example, the projection screen may include a bottom layer including a retroreflective film that is retroreflective at least in the horizontal direction such as a brightness enhancement film and a top layer formed of a transparent sheet of lenticular material arranged for vertical diffusing. |
| US09182523B2 |
Optical film and manufacturing method thereof, liquid cristal display apparatus using the optical film
An optical sheet having a single sheet structure for an edge-lighting backlight unit using a printless light guide plate, a method of manufacturing the same, and a liquid crystal display apparatus using the same are provided. The optical sheet having a single sheet structure includes a first prism sheet having a prism pattern formed on the upper surface thereof, and a second prism sheet having a prism pattern formed on the upper surface thereof. Further, prism ridges of the first prism sheet are attached to the bottom surface of the second prism sheet by means of an adhesive so that the prism pattern of the first prism sheet and the prism pattern of the second prism sheet are directed in the same direction. |
| US09182522B2 |
Hard coat film, polarizing plate, image display device, and method for producing hard coat film
The present invention provides a hard coat film in which the generation of interference fringes can be reliably prevented. The hard coat film 1 of the present invention includes a transparent film 2 and a hard coat layer 3 provided on the transparent film 2, wherein an interface 5 that can be detected to form by a reflection spectrum analysis exists between the transparent film 2 and the hard coat layer 3, and a refractive index continuously varies in the thickness direction in a region 31 from the interface 5 to a thickness-wise middle part of the hard coat layer 3 without forming an interface that can be detected by the reflection spectrum analysis. |
| US09182515B2 |
Method for autonomous self-blanking by radiation portal monitors to minimize the interference from pulsed X-rays radiation
A system and associated method for isolating intended radiation signals for determining target characteristics includes multiple detectors for detecting radiation signals having varying energies, delay modules for delaying the detected radiation signals and a discriminator associated with the multiple detectors for determining if detected radiation signals include unintended radiation signals, e.g., x-rays, and provided blanking signals to a switch in order to effectively remove the unintended radiation signals from the data that is presented to the processor for determining target characteristics. |
| US09182508B2 |
Neutron detector using neutron absorbing scintillating particulates in plastic
A neutron detector composed of a matrix of scintillating particles imbedded in a lithiated glass is disclosed. The neutron detector detects the neutrons by absorbing the neutron in the 6Li isotope which has been enriched from the natural isotopic ratio to a commercial ninety five percent. The utility of the detector is optimized by suitably selecting scintillating particle sizes in the range of the alpha and the triton. Nominal particle sizes are in the range of five to twenty five microns depending upon the specific scintillating particle selected. |
| US09182499B2 |
Inspection device of radioactive waste body and inspection method of radioactive waste body
A radioactive waste body inspection device according to an embodiment includes a surface contamination inspecting unit configured to conduct a surface contamination inspection of a radioactive waste body while acquiring concavo-convex information on the radioactive waste body, and a dose rate inspecting unit configured to conduct a dose rate inspection of the radioactive waste body in consideration of the concavo-convex information. |
| US09182498B2 |
Hybrid navigation system with non-network update and method of operation thereof
A method of operation of a hybrid navigation system includes: providing a peer-to-peer communication controller for communicating with a first vehicle; linking a second peer-to-peer communication controller for communicating between a second vehicle and the first vehicle; providing a communication and navigation controller for monitoring a regional network for the first vehicle or the second vehicle including storing saved route information; and preparing a first route history file for transferring from first vehicle to the second vehicle including providing the first route history file from the saved route information for displaying in the second vehicle when the regional network is not available. |
| US09182496B2 |
Access method for communication terminal
A communication terminal acquires positional information indicating the position at which the communication terminal exists, from a GPS satellite, determines a range of correspondence information to be acquired, from among the correspondence information that makes the positional information indicating position identified by latitude and longitude correspondent to the frequency to be used at that position and that is stored in a server, based on the acquired positional information, acquires the correspondence information included in the determined range, from the sever, and, identifies the frequency to be used between the communication terminal and the radio base station to be connected to the communication terminal, based on the acquired positional information and the correspondence information included in the range. |
| US09182491B2 |
Selective distance range imaging
A method for determining a distance to an object using an amplitude modulated continuous wave range imaging device includes emitting a modulated illumination signal. The modulated illumination signal is modulated with a pseudo random code. An image sensor is modulated based on the pseudo random code to capture a plurality of samples of the modulated illumination signal reflected from the object. A phase shift between the plurality of samples and the modulated illumination signal is determined. |
| US09182487B2 |
Advanced remote nondestructive inspection system and process
A system for inspecting a test article incorporates a diagnostic imaging system for a test article. A command controller receives two dimensional (2D) images from the diagnostic imaging system. A three dimensional (3D) computer aided design (CAD) model visualization system and an alignment system for determining local 3D coordinates are connected to the command controller. Computer software modules incorporated in the command controller are employed, in aligning, the 2D images and 3D CAD model responsive to the local 3D coordinates. The 2D images and 3D CAD model are displayed with reciprocal registration. The alignment system is then directed to selected coordinates in the 2D images or 3D CAD model. |
| US09182486B2 |
Sonar rendering systems and associated methods
Sonar rendering systems and methods are described herein. One example is an apparatus that includes a transducer element, position sensing circuitry, processing circuitry, and a display device. The processing circuitry may be configured to receive raw sonar data and positioning data, convert the raw sonar data into range cell data based at least on amplitudes of the return echoes, make a location-based association between the raw sonar data and the positioning data, plot the range cell data based on respective positions derived from the positioning data and rotate the range cell data based on a direction of movement of the watercraft to generate adjusted range cell data. The processing circuitry may be further configured to convert the adjusted range cell data into sonar image data, and cause the display device to render the sonar image data with a presentation of a geographic map. |
| US09182482B2 |
Radar beam sharpening system and method
A radar beam sharpening system for processing a radar video stream of echo return intensities, sampled in range and azimuth. The system uses a signal processor that is configured to apply beam sharpening to the radar video stream and which selectively varies the level of beam sharpening applied as a function of range and/or a land map generated from the radar video stream so as to generate an output selectively beam sharpened radar video stream. |
| US09182477B2 |
Vehicle radar alignment method and system
A method and system for aligning a sensor of a radar unit mounted on a vehicle, including calculating at least one alignment measurement of the vehicle from a plurality of optical sensors, positioning a target at a predetermined distance forward of the radar unit and determining a position of the radar unit based on the alignment measurement and the predetermined distance of the target. The method further includes transmitting a beam extending forward from the radar unit and positioning the target and the sensor in alignment with an axis of the beam. |
| US09182473B2 |
System, method and product for locating vehicle key using neural networks
A system, method and product for determining a vehicle key fob location. The system may include a control unit for mounting in a vehicle and configured to receive multiple signals, each representing a strength of a wireless signal transmitted between the fob and one of multiple antennas located on a vehicle, and multiple neural networks having a cascade topology. The neural networks may include a first neural network for determining one of a vehicle internal position and a vehicle external position of the fob based on the wireless signal strengths, a second neural network in communication with the first neural network for determining one of multiple vehicle interior positions of the fob based on the wireless signal strengths, and a third neural network in communication with the first neural network for determining one of multiple vehicle exterior positions of the fob based on the wireless signal strengths. |
| US09182469B2 |
System and method for locating a point in space
A method for locating a point in a first region based on receipt of a rf signal from the point. An antenna array is in the first region at a first position rotatable about an axis. A series of phase-array patterns is provided for implementation with the antenna array to provide measures of rf signal strength. Each pattern provides a plurality of reference values as a function of angle. A plurality of the phase-array patterns are used to acquire, in the first region, a plurality of rf signal strength values based on reception of the rf signal. A set of correlation values is determined where each value is a correlation between signal strength reference values and rf signal strength values acquired based on reception of the rf signal from the point. The correlation values identify a direction relative to the first position along which the point is located. |
| US09182465B2 |
MRT gradient system with integrated main magnetic field generation
In one embodiment, a magnetic resonance tomography system that has a gradient field coil system for generating a gradient field is provided. The gradient field coil system is also a main magnetic field generation system for generating a main field. |
| US09182462B2 |
High resolution high contrast MRI for flowing media
An MRI device for providing high-contrast, high-resolution images of a fluid. The device includes: an envelope for at least partially confining the fluid; a plurality of magnets located at least partially around the envelope; and a CPU to process the images, including a computer readable medium containing instructions for generating at least one third image superimposing at least one image of the first images with at least one image of the second images, whereby a high-contrast, high-resolution real-time continuous images of the fluid is obtained. |
| US09182460B2 |
Method of fabricating a magnetoresistive element
A method of fabricating a magnetoresistive element, the method comprising: forming a first plurality of layers without breaking a vacuum, the first plurality of layers sequentially comprising: a first nonmagnetic conductive layer; a first ferromagnetic layer comprising an amorphous structure and a first magnetization direction; a nonmagnetic tunnel barrier layer; a second ferromagnetic layer comprising an amorphous structure and a second magnetization direction, and a getter layer having a direct contact with the second ferromagnetic layer; annealing the first plurality of layers; removing the getter layer and a portion of the second ferromagnetic layer adjacent to the getter layer; forming above the second ferromagnetic layer a second plurality of layers such that interface between the second ferromagnetic layer and the second plurality of layers is formed without breaking a vacuum after removing the getter layer and the portion of the second ferromagnetic layer, the second plurality of layers sequentially comprising: a third magnetic layer comprising a third fixed magnetization direction directed substantially perpendicular to a substrate surface, and a second nonmagnetic conductive layer; wherein the first ferromagnetic layer, the tunnel barrier layer, and the second ferromagnetic layer crystallize during annealing into a coherent body-centered cubic (bcc) structure with (001) plane oriented, the first magnetization direction and the second magnetization direction are directed substantially perpendicular to the substrate surface, the second magnetization direction is fixed and is directed antiparallel to the third magnetization direction, and the first magnetization direction is reversible. |
| US09182457B2 |
Isolated voltage transducer
A transducer is disclosed for detecting the AC and DC voltage difference between two nodes in an electrical circuit and electronically transmitting the measured voltage difference to an electrical system that is electrically isolated from the common mode potential of the two nodes. The voltage drop between two points in a circuit under test is determined by detecting the current flowing through a resistive shunt coil connected in parallel to the test points. Current through the resistive shunt coil is linearly proportional to the voltage difference between the test points, and it is detected by using a magnetic sensor that is separated from the shunt coil by an insulating dielectric barrier. The transducer can be packaged in a standard integrated circuit package in order to provide a small and low cost voltage transducer for test, measurement, control, and signal-isolation applications. |
| US09182452B2 |
Power supply voltage monitoring circuit, sensor circuit for vehicle, and power steering apparatus
First and second microcomputers are connected to a ground. A first reference voltage generation circuit is connected between a first power supply and the first microcomputer, and supplies a first reference voltage to the first microcomputer when voltage of the first power supply is higher than the first reference voltage. A first monitoring circuit is connected between a second power supply and the first microcomputer, and supplies the first microcomputer with a first monitoring voltage for monitoring the second power supply. The first microcomputer includes a part configured to perform an operation based on the supplied first reference voltage and the supplied first monitoring voltage, wherein the operation includes detecting abnormality in the voltages of the first and second power supplies, and determining which one of the voltage of the first power supply and the voltage of the second power supply is abnormal. |
| US09182451B2 |
System and method for posteriori adaptation of a state of charge model in a battery
A method for estimating a state of charge in a battery includes identifying a first state of charge in the battery at a first time, identifying the first state of charge in the battery at a second time after operation of the battery, identifying an estimated state of charge at the second time with reference to a model having a plurality of model parameters, modifying at least one of the plurality of model parameters with reference to an error between the estimated state of charge and the first state of charge, and generating an output corresponding to an estimate of the state of charge of the battery using the model with the at least one modified parameter while operating the battery in the at least one operating mode after the second time. |
| US09182450B2 |
System for automatically recognizing battery characteristic, battery information storage device for the same, and method for automatically optimizing battery management device by using the same
A system for automatically recognizing a battery characteristic includes a battery information storage device for storing battery information; and a battery management device is connected to the battery information storage device and configured to battery management standards with reference to the battery information stored in the battery information storage device. In various cases in which a battery model applied to a system changes or various battery models are applied to a single system, the battery management device automatically recognizes characteristics of the different battery models, which allows the battery to be managed according to the optimized management standards suitable for the characteristics of the battery. |
| US09182448B2 |
Secondary battery, inspection apparatus and inspection method for secondary battery, and battery inspection system
A plurality of detection units are connected respectively in parallel with a plurality of battery cells connected in series. The detection units each include an inductor and a zener diode connected in series. A battery checker includes a plurality of detection inductors and a single voltmeter that form a closed circuit. A plurality of detection inductors are arranged so that they are magnetically coupled respectively with the inductors of the plurality of detection units. Each zener diode is connected with the polarity to be reverse biased by the output voltage of the battery cell. Respective breakdown voltages of the zener diodes are set higher than the output voltage of each battery cell in normal use and different in a stepwise manner from each other. |
| US09182444B2 |
System and methods for memory installation in functional test fixture
A system and a method for testing information handling systems is provided. The system includes a top cover having a memory circuit and a bottom platform for receiving a test printed circuit board assembly (PCBA) including a slot. The system includes a sensor determining the relative position of the memory circuit and the slot; and a host controller coupled to the test PCBA and the sensor through a port. A computer program product including a non-transitory computer readable medium having computer readable and executable code is also provided. The code instructs a processor in a host controller in a test fixture to load a memory circuit on a crane; engage a sub-module carrying the memory circuit; load a printed circuit board assembly (PCBA); place a memory device on a slot in the PCBA; perform a system test on the PCBA; disengage the sub-module and the test fixture. |
| US09182442B2 |
Semiconductor module
A semiconductor module is provided in a power system of an apparatus. The semiconductor module includes a semiconductor switch, a voltage applying device configured to apply a first voltage that is equal to or higher than a rated voltage of the apparatus to the semiconductor switch in an off-state in a case where the apparatus is not in practical use, and a leak detecting circuit configured to detect a leak current from the semiconductor switch. The rated voltage of the apparatus is a rated voltage when the apparatus is in practical use. |
| US09182440B1 |
Pressure activated high density switch array
Some of the embodiments of the present disclosure provide a method for operating a testing system to test a device, wherein the testing system comprises a pressing module, the method comprising attaching the device to the pressing module of the testing system; while the testing system operates in a first mode of testing, pressing the pressing module to a first position such that (i) the device is electrically coupled to a first component via a first pin, and (ii) the device is electrically isolated from a second component via a second pin; and while the testing system operates in a second mode of testing, pressing the pressing module to a second position such that (i) the device is electrically isolated from first component via the first pin, and (ii) the device is electrically coupled to the second component via the second pin. |
| US09182437B2 |
Method and circuit assembly for the diagnosis of a load path in a vehicle
A method and circuit assembly for the diagnosis of a load path in a vehicle. The load path comprises a DC voltage source, a switchable load permanently connected to a negative pole and a load switch permanently connected to a positive pole, controlled by a load control signal, wherein in the closed state of the load switch a load current can be conducted through the switchable load (34). During diagnosis a test current having a defined level is generated and is output to the switchable load in accordance with a test control signal via a test switch on an output terminal, wherein a resulting voltage is detected, processed and evaluated at the output terminal, wherein the load switch (36) is opened during the diagnosis, and wherein at least two different diagnostic cases are generated via the test control signal and the resulting switching state of the test switch. |
| US09182435B2 |
Method and software for spatial pattern analysis
A method and software implementation for spatial pattern analysis. A user-guided test procedure is implemented to measure features of an antenna under test to determine the antenna's far-field patterns. The antenna features include RF amplitude or phase, and position and orientation relative to a receiving object. |
| US09182430B2 |
Device and method for measuring a value of a resistor
A device for measuring the value of a resistor has a first RC element with a first time constant and a second RC element with a second time constant. The first RC element has a first capacitor and a resistor. The second RC element has a second capacitor and the resistor to be measured. An evaluation circuit charges the first and second capacitors to a first and a second voltage, respectively, and initiates their discharge. The evaluation circuit measures the time that elapses from the start of the discharge to the instant at which the voltages across the capacitors are equal, and determines the value of the resistor from the values. In the event that the first time constant is larger than the second time constant, the first voltage is smaller than the second voltage, and vice versa. |
| US09182422B2 |
Fluid body flow visualization device and visualization method
When a flow of a liquid body around a measuring object is visualized, a first liquid body as a tracer is supplied from a nozzle hole into a flow field of a second liquid body, and a laser beam having a wavelength optically absorbed by the first liquid body is irradiated in a manner such that the laser beam traverse across the flow field. At this point, the irradiation position of the laser beam is controlled in such a manner that the flow field is scanned with the laser beam. On the other hand, the laser beam that has passed through the flow field is received and a position where the first liquid body traverses the laser beam is obtained using the scan intensity signal of the received laser beam so that the flow of the second liquid body is visualized. The position where the first liquid body traverses the laser beam can be obtained based on a position on a time axis where a value of the scan intensity signal is less than a set threshold. According to the above described visualization, the flow field can reliably be visualized even for the high-speed fluid body. |
| US09182421B2 |
Inertia sensor
This invention is directed to provision of high-performance inertial sensor that can sustain SNR even in an environment where vibration disturbance exists. A vibration type inertial sensor comprises: two deadweights (2, 3); means (C1, C2, C3, C4, +vd, −vd) for displacing the two dead weights in the anti-phase; two sets of electrodes (C5, C6, C7, C8) for detecting, as capacitance changes, the displacements of the two dead weights; and a C/V converting unit (53) for converting the capacitance changes of the electrodes to electric signals. In the vibration type inertial sensor, a set of electrodes (e.g., C5 and C8), which exhibit an increased electrostatic capacitance therebetween in the case where the two dead weights (2, 3) are displaced in the anti-phase, are electrically connected to each other, and a set of electrodes (e.g., C6 and C7), which exhibit a reduced electrostatic capacitance therebetween in the foregoing case, are electrically connected to each other, and further these sets of electrodes are connected to the C/V converting unit (53). |
| US09182419B2 |
Conveying system for material samples, especially medical samples
A conveying system for material samples, especially medical samples, comprising a conveyor track forming at least one conveying section and at least one self-propelled sample holder displaceable along the conveying section holding a sample vessel. The holder comprises a drive motor, an energy accumulator for supplying the motor with energy and a friction wheel, drivable by the motor, for transmitting force onto the track. The track has at least one guide structure forming the conveying section. The holder has exactly one wheel on a lower side facing the track in operation, and has at least two sliding elements which rest on the track in operation and slide along the track's surface, the sliding elements and the wheel lying on the vertices of a triangle. The holder, on its lower side, has a guide element for cooperation with the guide structure in the track to guide the holder along the conveying section. |
| US09182416B2 |
Method for monitoring thrombus formation
A method of monitoring thrombus formation is described, which comprises flowing anticoagulated blood into a thrombus formation chamber, in at least a part of which a thrombus formation inducer inducing thrombus formation is provided, while releasing the anticoagulant treatment or promoting blood coagulation to thereby monitor thrombus formation in the thrombus formation chamber. |
| US09182415B2 |
Use of IMP3 as a prognostic marker for cancer
Provided herein are methods and compositions for the prognostic evaluation of a patient suspected of having, or having, cancer by assessing the expression of IMP3 in a biological sample of a patient. Methods can be used at the time of initial diagnosis of malignant tumors to identify a group of patients with a high potential to develop progression or metastasis later. Therefore, methods not only are able to provide very useful prognostic information for patients but also can help clinicians to select a candidate patient likely to benefit from early and aggressive cancer therapy. Methods and compositions for the treatment of cancer associated with expression of IMP3 are also provided. |
| US09182414B2 |
Methods for identifying a GLP-1 secretagogue
The present invention concerns combination of an amount of a BRS-3 agonist with an amount of a dipeptidyl peptidase IV (DPP-IV) inhibitor such that the combination provides an effect in lowering a blood glucose level or in increasing a blood GLP-1 level in a subject over that provided by the amount of the BRS-3 agonist alone and by the amount of the DPP-IV inhibitor alone and the use of such a combination for treating or preventing obesity and diabetes and conditions related thereto and conditions ameliorated by increasing a blood GLP-1 level. The present invention also relates to the use of a G protein-coupled receptor to screen for GLP-1 secretagogues. |
| US09182411B2 |
Methods and apparatus for the detection and differentiation of non-sialated proteins from sialated proteins in a fluid sample
The present invention is directed to methods and devices for detection of cerebrospinal fluid leaks by detection of the CSF protein beta-2 transferrin. The microfluidic devices and methods of the invention combine capture and specific labeling of transferrin from a sample with a subsequent step of isoelectric focusing to separate transferrin isoforms for detection. Microfluidic channels and chambers are patterned on a substrate, designed so that on one region (i.e., a microfluidic channel or chamber) of the substrate transferrin is selectively captured from the sample and labeled, and in a second region of the substrate, transferrin isoforms are separated using isoelectric focusing. Detection of two transferrin bands, indicating the presence of beta-2-transferrin, indicates the presence of CSF in the sample. The devices and methods of the invention provide a safe, efficient, and ultrarapid modality with high specificity and sensitivity for the detection of CSF in the acute care setting. |
| US09182409B2 |
Mass spectrometry imaging method for detecting and quantifying a target molecule in a tissue sample
The invention relates to a method for identifying and quantifying by mass spectrometry imaging at least one target analyte in a tissue sample, comprising the following steps: a) depositing the tissue sample to be analyzed on a support; b) analyzing the sample by mass spectrometry imaging, so as to obtain the mass spectrum of the target analyte in said tissue sample; c) weighting a signal associated with the mass spectrum of the target analyte in said tissue sample by a tissue extinction coefficient (TEC) specific to the target analyte and to the tissue sample which is obtained by using a control tissue sample; and d) using the weighted signal of the target analyte to determine the quantity of target analyte in the tissue sample. |
| US09182408B2 |
Method of screening by using conformation sensitive peptides
The present invention relates to a screening technology that allows the isolation of peptides able to bind to target protein, the binding of which being sensitive to the protein conformation. The invention further provides a method to identify compounds that specifically and precisely modify the protein conformation and its biological activity. Finally, the invention relates to certain peptides obtained by the method of screening of the present invention and their use as therapeutic agent for the prevention or treatment of diseases. |
| US09182399B2 |
Virus traps
Specific applications of particles and particle agglomerates with semiconductor surfaces are provided. The particles and particle agglomerates display a high affinity for viral particles, and may be used therapeutically and/or prophylactically to treat or prevent viral infections. The particles and particle agglomerates may also be used to remove viral particles from a surface or fluid, e.g., as an absorbent in a filter, applied to surfaces to render them virostatic, and as tool to handle viral particles, e.g., for research, diagnostic, or decontamination purposes. |
| US09182398B2 |
Methods and compositions for detecting fungi and mycotoxins
The invention relates to a method of identifying a specific fungal species in patient tissue or body fluid. The method comprises the steps of extracting and recovering DNA of the fungal species from the patient tissue or body fluid, amplifying the DNA, hybridizing a probe to the DNA to specifically identify the fungal species, and specifically identifying the fungal species. The invention also relates to a method of identifying a mycotoxin in patient tissue or body fluid. The method comprises the steps of extracting and recovering the mycotoxin from the patient tissue or body fluid, contacting the mycotoxin with an antibody directed against the mycotoxin, and identifying the myocotoxin. Both of these methods can be used to determine if a patient is at risk for or has developed a disease state related to a fungal infection, and to develop an effective treatment regimen for the patient. |
| US09182396B2 |
Lateral flow immunoassay for complement activation and methods of use for point-of-care assessment of complement-associated disorders
A method for treating an individual at risk for a complement-associated disorder is provided, including: (a) obtaining a sample of a body fluid from the individual; (b) measuring a complement activation level in the sample via a point-of-care lateral flow immunoassay; (c) correlating the complement activation level in the sample to a risk of a complement-associated disorder by comparing the complement activation level in the sample to a reference level in a control, wherein a deviation in complement activation level in the sample compared to the reference level in the control indicates the individual is at risk for a complement-associated disorder; (d) selecting a treatment for the individual, based on the correlating of step (c); and (e) treating the individual with the treatment selected in accordance with step (d). Lateral flow immunoassays and a method of monitoring an individual suffering from a complement-associated disorder are also provided herein. |
| US09182394B1 |
Fabrication of nanopipette arrays for biosensing
Method for providing a nanopipette array for biosensing applications. A thin substrate of anodizable metal (“AN-metal,” such as Al, Mg, Zn, Ti, Ta and/or Nb) is anodized at temperature T=20-200° C., chemical bath pH=4-6 and electrical potential 1-300 Volts, to produce an array of anodized nanopipette channels, having diameters 10-50 nm, with oxidized channel surfaces of thickness 5-20 nm. A portion of exposed non-oxidized AN-metal between adjacent nanopipette channels, of length 1-5 μm, is etched away, exposing inner and outer surfaces of a nanopipette channel. A probe molecule, is deposited on one or both surfaces to provide biosensing capability for K(≧1) target molecules. Target molecule presence, in an above-threshold concentration, in a fluid passed through or adjacent to a nanopipette channel, produces characteristic detection signals associated with the probe molecule site. |
| US09182390B2 |
Biomolecule-immobilized carrier and method for immobilizing biomolecule on carrier
Provided are a biomolecule-immobilized carrier obtained by immobilizing a biomolecule having a membrane-binding peptide containing a C terminal polypeptide of fucosyltransferase derived from Helicobacter pylori or a membrane-binding molecule having the membrane-binding peptide and various biomolecules and a method for immobilizing a biomolecule to a carrier, particularly a biomolecule-immobilized magnetic microparticle, a probe-immobilized carrier using the biomolecule and/or the membrane-binding molecule are/is used as a probe, and a separating agent for a biomolecule to which the biomolecule-immobilized magnetic microparticle is applied. A biomolecule having a membrane-binding peptide containing either an amino acid sequence represented by SEQ ID NO: 1 or an amino acid sequence encoded by a base sequence represented by SEQ ID NO: 2 and/or a membrane-binding molecule having the membrane-binding peptide and the biomolecule are/is attached to a carrier coated with an organic membrane containing a phospholipid. |
| US09182387B2 |
Methods for cancer detection, diagnosis and prognosis
The present invention provides a method for diagnosing cancer, predicting a disease outcome or response to therapy in a patient sample. The method involves isolating a circulating tumor cell (CTC), for example, a viable CTC, from a sample using a parylene microfilter device comprising a membrane filter having or consisting of a parylene substrate, which has an array of holes with a predetermined shape and size; and detecting and quantifying telomerase activity in blood circulating tumor cells. The invention further provides methods of using cells live-captured in various applications. |
| US09182382B2 |
Automated method and system for the analysis of total dietary fiber
The invention consists of a method for determining Total Dietary Fiber (TDF) and its sub-fractions, Insoluble Dietary Fiber (IDF) and Soluble Dietary Fiber (SDF) in food and feed samples which utilizes flexible reaction/filtration containers that can be divided into one or more sections for capturing the IDF and SDF fractions separately or for capturing TDF in its entirety. Each container is fashioned as a bag that can be temporarily sealed in multiple locations to create multiple sections and is made of non-porous and porous material. Use of these containers eliminates the need for problematic transfers of mixtures from beaker to filter, and vastly improves the filtration process. |
| US09182375B2 |
Measuring apparatus and measuring method for metallic microstructures or material properties
A pulse laser oscillator (11) outputs a first laser beam, a beam splitter splitting the first laser beam into split beams, optical paths (12, 13, 14, 15, 16) propagating light of split beams split, respectively, taking different times for light propagation thereof, a condenser superimposing light of split beams propagated through the optical paths, respectively, on an identical spot of a measuring material (100), for irradiation therewith, a laser interferometer (30) irradiating the measuring material (100) with light of a second laser beam, having light intensity variations resulted from interferences between reference light and light of the second laser beam reflected or scattered, as bases to detect ultrasonic waves energized by light of the first laser beam and transmitted in the measuring material (100), a waveform analyzer (32) calculating a metallic microstructure or a material property of the measuring material (100) based on ultrasonic waves. |
| US09182371B2 |
Microscale western blot
Systems and methods are provided for integrating the electrophoresis and blotting of samples. A capillary electrophoresis and blotting system allows concomitant electrophoretic separation and blotting to provide a rapid and simplified process. A microfluidic electrophoresis and blotting system provides electrophoretic separation in a microfluidic channel followed by electroblotting from the microfluidic channel to also provide a rapid and simplified process. These systems and methods can be used to assay smaller amounts of sample in less time than conventional processes, including conventional Western blotting techniques. |
| US09182367B2 |
Electroanalytical method for determination of phenols
The electroanalytical method for determination of phenols is a method for determining the concentration of phenolic compounds and their chloro-derivatives, on the surface of a glassy carbon electrode (GCE) by cyclic voltammetry (CV) and/or square-wave stripping voltammetry (SWASV) using a redox active polymer film that is formed on the surface of the GCE when the electro-polymerization potential is reached. The electroanalytical method comprises contacting an aqueous sample containing a phenolic compound(s) with an electrode assembly having a working electrode; generating a voltammogram of the analyte by varying an applied accumulation potential or applied potential, and measuring the size of voltammogram peaks corresponding to a redox-active polymeric film that develops at the working electrode at the electro-polymerization potential in order to determine the concentration of the phenolic compound. |
| US09182361B2 |
Digital X-ray imaging system with still and video capture modes
In one aspect, a system includes a conventional, film-based X-ray machine and a digital imaging assembly. The X-ray machine includes an X-ray source and a bracket assembly configured to hold X-ray film. The digital imaging assembly is configured to be mounted on the bracket assembly of the X-ray machine. The digital imaging assembly includes a scintillation screen and a digital image sensor. The digital image sensor is coupled with one or more processors that is configured to receive user input that selects a mode of operation from between a still image capture mode and a video capture mode, receive digital signals from the digital image sensor, process the digital signals to generate digital X-ray image data in accordance with the selected mode of operation, and present the generated digital X-ray image data on a display device. |
| US09182356B2 |
Image processing apparatus
Provided is an image processing apparatus which can easily perform focus adjustment only by switching a program in accordance with a kind of an inspection object. The image processing apparatus according to the invention includes: an imaging unit for imaging a region including an inspection object; a focus adjustment mechanism; and a control unit for controlling a operation of the focus adjustment mechanism. A plurality of pieces of inspection condition data are set, the data being made up of a plurality of setting items including a focus position data. When the switching instruction from one inspection condition data to another inspection condition data is accepted, the operation of the focus adjustment mechanism is controlled based on focus position data included in another inspection condition data after switching. |
| US09182349B2 |
Cell nucleus observation substrate and cell nucleus observation apparatus
To provide a technology of staining nuclei of cells, microorganisms and the like by a simple operation and observing their forms.There is provided a cell nucleus observation substrate including an introduction part into which a sample liquid containing cells is introduced and an observation area within which the cells in the sample liquid introduced from the introduction part is held, copper being disposed on a flow path of the sample liquid in the introduction part and the observation area so that the copper being capable of contacting with the sample liquid. In the cell nucleus observation substrate, the cells in the sample liquid introduced from the introduction part is contacted with copper, nucleic acids therein will emit fluorescence and is held within the observation area. Accordingly, in the cell nucleus observation substrate, the cells including the nuclei being fluorescence stained can be observed at the observation area. |
| US09182343B2 |
Method and apparatus for observing subsurfaces of a target material
A system that incorporates teachings of the present disclosure may include, for example, a method for generating from a light source a light signal operating in a region of the light spectrum, modifying the light signal with a first polarization device having a first polarization state to generate a polarized light signal directed to a target, modifying a substantially specular reflection and a substantially diffused reflection of the polarized light signal generated from the target with a second polarization device having a second polarization state to generate mixed polarized light signals having a mixed polarization state, and adjusting the mixed polarization state to modify an observable range of subsurfaces of the target. Other embodiments are disclosed. |
| US09182340B2 |
Optical measuring apparatus and optical measuring method
An optical measuring apparatus comprising at least one light emitting unit, a stage, at least one lens, and at least one light detector is provided. The light emitting unit emits a light beam. The stage contains accommodating spaces. The accommodating spaces move to the transmission path of the light beam in turn. The lens is located between the light emitting unit and the stage, whose orthogonal projection on the stage appears substantially to be a polygon. When one of the accommodating spaces moves to the transmission path of the light beam, a perpendicular bisector half line of each side of the polygon is not overlapped with another adjacent accommodating space of the accommodating spaces. An optical measuring method is also provided. |
| US09182338B2 |
Structures for enhancement of local electric field, light absorption, light radiation, material detection and methods for making and using of the same
Microstructures and nanostructures (100) consisting of a substrate (110), an array of pillars (120) capped by metallic disc (130), metallic dots (clusters or granules) (140) disposed on the sidewalls of the pillars, and a metallic backplane (150) that can interact to enhance a local electric field, the absorption of the light, and the radiation of the light are disclosed. Methods to fabricate the structures (100) are also disclosed. Applications of the structures to enhance the optical signals in the detection of molecules and other materials on a structure surface, such as fluorescence, photoluminescence and surface enhanced Raman Scattering (SERS) are also disclosed. |
| US09182335B2 |
Method for inspecting panel-bonding semi-finished product
The present invention provides a method for inspecting a panel-bonding semi-finished product, which includes (1) placing a panel-bonding semi-finished product on a tray in a feeding station; (2) using a conveyance mechanism to convey the tray and the panel-bonding semi-finished product to a final display test station; (3) proceeding with a final display test on the panel-bonding semi-finished product and ending the test if the result fails and proceeding to the next step if the result passes; (4) conveying the tray and the panel-bonding semi-finished product to a final visual check station; (5) proceeding with final visual check for the panel-bonding semi-finished product that passes the final display test and if the result fails, ending the inspection and if the result passes, then proceeding to the next step; (6) conveying the tray and the panel-bonding semi-finished product to a quality inspection station; (7) proceeding with quality inspection on the panel-bonding semi-finished product; (8) conveying the tray and the panel-bonding semi-finished product to a packaging station; and (9) proceeding with packaging of the panel-bonding semi-finished product. |
| US09182333B2 |
Device and method to measure bulk unconfined properties of powders
A method testing physical properties of bulk powder materials uses acceleration forces induce a change in physical configuration of a powder sample. Various different properties may be determined by relationships between the applied acceleration and the associated detected change in configuration event. In various embodiments powder strength, friction angle, or other properties may be determined. Novel methods and devices are provided. |
| US09182332B2 |
Device and method for testing corrosion inhibitor
A device for testing a corrosion inhibitor, the device including: a circulating cooling water tank; a circulating water pump; a flowmeter; a five-port glass tube; a working electrode; a reference electrode; an auxiliary electrode; a heating rod; and an electrochemical workstation. The circulating water pump is connected to the circulating cooling water tank. The heating rod is fixed inside the circulating cooling water tank. The water inlet of the flowmeter is connected to the circulating water pump. The water outlet of the flowmeter is connected to the water inlet of the five-port glass tube. The water outlet of the five-port glass tube is connected to the circulating cooling water tank. The working electrode the reference electrode, and the auxiliary electrode are connected to the electrochemical workstation; and the electrochemical workstation is connected to a host computer. |
| US09182322B2 |
Microfluidic mixing and reaction systems for high efficiency screening
Microfluidic devices are described that include a rigid base layer, and an elastomeric layer on the base layer. The elastomeric layer may include at least part of a fluid channel for transporting a liquid reagent, and a vent channel that accepts gas diffusing through the elastomeric layer from the flow channel and vents it out of the elastomeric layer. The devices may also include a mixing chamber fluidly connected to the fluid channel, and a control channel overlapping with a deflectable membrane that defines a portion of the flow channel, where the control channel may be operable to change a rate at which the liquid reagent flows through the fluid channel. The devices may further include a rigid plastic layer on the elastomeric layer. |
| US09182320B2 |
System apparatus and method of sampling a broad range of chemicals (SBRC) by collection and analysis of chemical vapors aerosols particulates and liquid droplets on surfaces
Sampling of a broad range of chemicals using a handheld sampler body, having a sample screen in a sampling cassette; where a sample screen housing further consists of a locking arm arrestor body, where, the locking arm arrestor body including a draw tube, and where the sampling screen can be positioned in either a retracted or extended positioned regarding a sample access face. When activated, the system executes collecting and sampling operations of chemicals, by exposing the extended sampling screen to a sampling environment, drawing through the draw tube, air from the sampling environment, further collecting, onto the surface of the sample screen solid particles and/or pressing the sample screen against the surface(s) of object in the sampling environment. Then, removing the sampling screen from the sampling environment and isolating the plurality of airborne chemical contaminants, by retracting a sample screen into the sample screen housing. |
| US09182319B2 |
Automatic detection and analysis of tire treads
A pressure sensor is used to automatically calculate physical parameters of a tire, for example, groove area fraction or shoulder center ratio. In one approach, a pressure sensor measures the pressure distribution produced by a tire when a known load is applied to the tire while it is resting on or traversing the pressure sensor. The resulting pressure map corresponds to tread area and features of the tread contact area. |
| US09182318B2 |
Methods and apparatus for inspecting cooling holes
Methods and apparatus for inspecting cooling holes in a wall of a combustor of a gas turbine engine are disclosed. An exemplary method disclosed may comprise: heating the wall of the combustor; directing a flow of cooling fluid through the one or more cooling holes in the wall of the combustor while the wall is being heated; acquiring a first measurement indicative of a flow rate of the cooling fluid through the one or more cooling holes; and acquiring a second measurement indicative of a cooling effectiveness provided by the cooling fluid flowing through the one or more cooling holes at the flow rate. |
| US09182317B2 |
Simulated gas supply apparatus
A simulated gas supply apparatus includes a raw gas source group including a plurality of raw gas sources, a plurality of flow controller groups, each of which includes a plurality of flow controllers, a flow control system including the flow controller groups, a primary supply pipe for supplying a simulated gas to an evaluation device, a primary exhaust pipe for exhausting the simulated gas, a switching valve system including a plurality of switching valves so as to switch the simulated gas flow between the primary supply pipe and the primary exhaust pipe, and a controlling unit that controls the flow control system and the switching valve system. |
| US09182314B2 |
Detection of pipeline contaminants
A computer-implemented method, system, and/or computer program product detects contaminants in a pipe that is transporting a known fluid. A baseline vibration pattern is established from readings generated by a smart sensor that is affixed to the pipe. This baseline vibration pattern is caused by a flow of the known fluid as the known fluid travels through the pipe in an unadulterated form. Subsequent readings from the smart sensor are taken to generate a new vibration pattern. In response to the new vibration pattern being different, beyond a predefined range, from the baseline vibration pattern, the new vibration pattern is matched to a known vibration pattern in order to identify a specific contaminant of the known fluid. |
| US09182303B2 |
Strain sensor, manufacturing method and system
Strain sensor, including an elongated protective encasing (5) surrounding an inner space, and an optical fiber (3) extending through the encasing (5), the fiber (3) at least including a fiber core (3a) and a fiber cladding (3b), wherein a cured filler material fills (4) at least part of a space between the fiber (3) and the protective encasing (5), the cured filler material (4) being configured for allowing strain coupling between the protective encasing (5) and the fiber (3), wherein an outer diameter of the fiber (3) is at least about 250 μm, and wherein the cured filler material (4) is one or more of: a flexible material, a resilient material, and a material having a shore A hardness that is lower than about 50. The invention also provides a method and system for manufacturing a strain sensor. |
| US09182302B2 |
Apparatus and method for measuring tactile sensation
An apparatus and method for measuring a tactile sensation is provided. The tactile sensation measuring apparatus may include a plurality of pressure measuring units, each to measure a magnitude of an external pressure applied, using a variable resistance material of which a resistance changes when an external pressure is applied, and a tactile sensation measuring unit to measure a three-dimensional (3D) tactile sensation corresponding to the external pressure, based on a position of each of the plurality of pressure measuring units, and the magnitude of the external pressure measured by each of the plurality of pressure measuring units. |
| US09182296B2 |
Oven air sampling system
A system for the sampling of oven air is described. A duct or channel is provided with air delivered from the interior of the oven cooking chamber. One or more sensors, including one or more temperature sensors, can be placed within the air sampling channel for the purpose of measuring characteristics of the oven cavity's air. The inlet of the air sampling channel can be positioned along a location at or near the vertical center of the oven where e.g., a food being cooked may be located so that the sampled air more accurately reflects the characteristics of the air in the vicinity of the food being cooked. |
| US09182295B1 |
Circuitry and techniques for resistor-based temperature sensing
A temperature to digital converter circuitry to generate output data which is representative of one or more temperature dependent characteristics of a temperature sensitive device (for example, MEMS thermistor having a resistance that correlates to its temperature), the temperature to digital circuitry comprising a switched capacitor network to generate a effective reference resistance in response to a switching signal, a signal generator to generate the switching signal, wherein the switching signal has a switching frequency which is controlled, at least in part, via control data, comparator circuitry to generate error data using the effective reference resistance and the resistance of the temperature sensitive device, and converter circuitry to generate the output data which is representative of one or more temperature dependent characteristics of the temperature sensitive device. |
| US09182289B2 |
Apparatus and method for estimating wavefront parameters
An apparatus for estimating a wavefront parameter includes a light source, a lenslet array, a detector for detecting light generated by the light source and passed through the lenslet array, a wavefront corrective element disposed between the lenslet array and the light source; and a data analyzer configured to estimate at least one wavefront parameter at a plane located on the light source side of the corrective element. The lenslet array and the sensor array are arranged to form a wavefront sensor, and the wavefront corrective element is configured to correct an aberration of the wavefront. |
| US09182287B2 |
Infrared sensor, heat sensing element, and heat sensing method using the same
An infrared sensor includes a heat sensing element in which a first electrode, a dielectric film, and a second electrode are sequentially laminated; and an electric charge detection device. The dielectric film represents antiferroelectricity and has a spontaneous polarization in a predetermined measurement environment. The electric charge detection device calculates an amount of relaxation current flowing by a change of the spontaneous polarization, and senses heat of the heat sensing element based on temperature dependence of the amount of relaxation current. |
| US09182284B2 |
Phase-locked delay device including an optical wedge pair
A phase-locked delay device, including: an input port configured to receive an input electromagnetic radiation pulse; said input pulse being to be propagated along a propagation direction and having a first linear polarization different from both a first direction, which is orthogonal to the propagation direction, and a second direction, which is orthogonal to the first direction and the propagation direction; an adjustable Babinet-Soleil module optically coupled to said input port, having a first polarization direction parallel to said first direction. The adjustable Babinet-Soleil module is structured to: provide from the input pulse a first pulse polarized along the first direction and a second pulse collinear to said first pulse and polarized along the second direction, and introduce an adjustable group delay between the first pulse and the second pulse ranging from a minim value ΔTm and a maximum value ΔTM; the maximum value ΔTM being a value greater than 10 fs. |
| US09182283B2 |
Imaging spectropolarimeter using orthogonal polarization pairs
An imaging interferometric transform spectropolarimeter configured to simultaneously collect four polarizations. In one example, an spectropolarimeter includes a dual-beam interferometric transform spectrometer configured to receive electromagnetic radiation from a viewed scene, and including first and second focal plane arrays that are spatially registered with one another, a first polarizer coupled to the first focal plane array and configured to transmit only a first pair of polarizations to the first focal plane array, and a second polarizer coupled to the second focal plane array and configured to transmit only a second pair of polarizations to the second focal plane array, the second pair of polarizations being different than the first pair of polarizations. |
| US09182279B2 |
Optical module, electronic apparatus, and method of driving optical module
An optical module includes a wavelength variable interference filter that selects light of a predetermined wavelength from incident light, and can change the wavelength of emitted light; a global shutter imaging element that accumulates electric charges while being exposed to the emitted light, and outputs a detection signal in response to the accumulated electric charges; an imaging element controller for setting a photodetection period during which the electric charges are accumulated in the imaging element, and a standby period during which the electric charges accumulated in the imaging elements are reset; and a spectroscopic controller for controlling the wavelength change driving of the emitted light. The imaging element controller sets the duration of the standby period to a minimum drive time for changing the wavelength or greater. The spectroscopic controller starts the wavelength change driving at the start of the standby period. |
| US09182276B2 |
Semiconductor integrated circuit for optical sensor
There is provided a semiconductor integrated circuit for an optical sensor for receiving environmental light through a cover member that attenuates visible light and transmits infrared light and a collecting lens, performing luminosity factor correction based on an amount of received light, and detecting an illuminance, wherein the semiconductor integrated circuit includes a first light receiving element having a first spectral property; a second light receiving element having a second spectral property; and a luminosity factor correction unit configured to perform the luminosity factor correction according to output of the first light receiving element and output of the second light receiving element, wherein the luminosity factor correction unit includes an AD conversion unit performed by time division on the output of the first light receiving element and the output of the second light receiving element, and a calculating unit subtracting digital signals obtained by the conversion. |
| US09182275B2 |
Distributing light intensity readings in a wireless mesh
A method for controlling a light source associated with an environment includes: receiving, over a wireless mesh network and by a control node corresponding to the light source, a first light intensity value for the environment from a first sensor node; calculating, by the control node, a resulting light intensity (RLI) value based on the first intensity value; determining, by the control node, that the RLI value exceeds a light intensity threshold; and modifying, by the control node and in response to determining the RLI value exceeds the light intensity threshold, an output of the first light source. |
| US09182271B2 |
Methods of measuring a characteristic of a creping adhesive film and methods of modifying the creping adhesive film
Described herein are quartz crystal microbalance (QCM) and quartz crystal microbalance with dissipation (QCMD) techniques that can be used for measuring characteristics of a creping adhesive film similar to the creping adhesive film that is formed on a Yankee dryer during the tissue and towel manufacturing process. In addition, exemplary embodiments described herein may use these techniques to predict performance of creping aids utilized to form a creping adhesive film. |
| US09182266B2 |
Liquid level detectors
Liquid level detectors are described. An example liquid level detector includes a housing and an arm extending through the housing. A lever assembly is coupled to the arm and the housing, and movement of the arm causes the lever assembly to open or close a switch via a magnetic field when a liquid reaches a predetermined level. |
| US09182259B2 |
Ultrasonic flow meter
An ultrasonic flow meter is equipped with a housing through which a liquid flows, and a pair of detection units disposed on opposite ends of the housing and including acoustic wave transmitting and receiving units capable of transmitting and receiving acoustic wave signals. Vibration generating mechanisms having vibration generating bodies arranged perpendicularly to the detection units are disposed on an outer circumferential side of the housing. In addition, when the flow rate of the liquid that flows through the housing is measured, the vibration generating bodies are energized and made to vibrate, such that gas bubbles, which adhere to cover members in contact with the liquid and that cover the acoustic wave transmitting and receiving units, are removed by the vibrations. |
| US09182257B2 |
Air data sensor device
An air data sensor device using a flow around a cylinder is provided. The air data sensor device may include a sensor measurement unit which includes a sensor body provided in a cylindrical form including a hollow inside, a plurality of pressure measurement holes disposed on an outside of the sensor body, and a thermostat attached to one side of the sensor body, and a signal processing unit which includes a pressure sensor connected to the plurality of pressure measurement holes, and a microprocessor connected to the pressure sensor to perform calculation. A main pressure measurement hole having a high pressure value may be selected from the plurality of pressure measurement holes, pressure distribution may be calculated, and at least one of an angle of attack, a static pressure, and a total pressure may be calculated using the pressure distribution. |
| US09182252B2 |
Probe for determining an absolute position of a rod of a cylinder
A probe for determining an absolute position of a rod relative to a cylinder with the rod having an associated pattern for indicating position includes a light source for emitting light. The probe further includes a light pipe for directing light emitted by the light source onto the pattern of the rod. A detector of the probe detects light and provides a signal indicative of the detected light. A lens produces an image of a portion of the pattern illuminated by the light on the detector and a controller is responsive to the signal from the detector for determining an absolute position of the rod relative to the cylinder. |
| US09182249B2 |
Rotation angle detection device
A rotation angle detection device capable of obtaining a detection result in a wider angle range with high accuracy. The rotation angle detection device is provided with a part to be detected which is attached to a throttle shaft S by a rotor, and a Hall IC which detects magnetic flux components of the part to be detected. The Hall IC is provided with a magnetism collecting plate which is disposed facing the part to be detected and extends along the rotation surface of the part to be detected, and Hall elements which detect the magnetic flux components of the part to be detected, and output a signal corresponding to the rotation position of the throttle shaft S on the basis of the results of the detection by the Hall elements. The Hall elements each detect a magnetic flux component in an X-axis direction passing through the rotation axis of the throttle shaft S. The Hall elements each detect a magnetic flux component in the Y-axis direction passing through the rotation axis of the throttle shaft S. The part to be detected is configured by combining a semicircular yoke with a semiannular magnet. |
| US09182248B2 |
Power line communication network and discovery process
An apparatus for a power line communication network includes a power line transmitter/receiver, a processor coupled to the power line transmitter/receiver, and memory accessible to the processor. The processor is configured to store a routing table in the memory for routing packets in an upward direction towards a data concentrator (DC). However, no routing table is provided for routing packets in a downward direction away from the DC. Instead of using a routing table to route packets in the downward direction, the processor is configured to employ source routing in the downward direction. |
| US09182247B2 |
Network system
A network system capable of effectively managing an energy source has a first component and a second component. A first communicator is connected to the first component, and a second communicator is connected to the second component. The first communicator allows communication between the first component and the second component. Communication information between the first component and the second component has information related to energy. The first communicator has a memory that stores information received from the first component and information received from the second component. The first communicator transmits the information stored in the memory to the second communicator when the first communicator receives a message for requesting the information from the second communicator. |
| US09182245B2 |
Calibration and compensation method and apparatus for resistive sensor measurement bridge
A resistive sensor read-out apparatus is disclosed. In one embodiment, the resistive sensor read-out apparatus comprises an active sensor, a reference element, a bias circuit, a current-to-voltage converter, an analog-to-digital converter and a calibration processor. The bias circuit is coupled to the active sensor and the reference element and configured to calibrate one or more mismatches between the active sensor and the reference element. The current-to-voltage converter is coupled to an output of the bias circuit. The analog-to-digital converter is coupled to an output of the current-to-voltage converter. The calibration processor is coupled to an output of the analog-to-digital converter and configured to estimate an error caused by limited resolution mismatch calibration. The calibration processor is also configured to at least partially control calibration performed at the bias circuit based on the error. |
| US09182241B2 |
Data mining in a digital map database to identify unusually narrow lanes or roads and enabling precautionary actions in a vehicle
Disclosed is a feature for a vehicle that enables taking precautionary actions in response to conditions on the road network around or ahead of the vehicle, in particular, an unusually narrow road width or lane width. A database that represents the road network is used to determine locations where an unusually narrow road width or lane width exists along roads. Then, precautionary action data is added to the database to indicate a location at which a precautionary action is to be taken about the location where the unusually narrow road width or lane width exists. A precautionary action system installed in a vehicle uses this database, or a database derived therefrom, in combination with a positioning system to determine when the vehicle is at a location that corresponds to the location of a precautionary action. When the vehicle is at such a location, a precautionary action is taken by a vehicle system as the vehicle is approaching a location where the unusually narrow road width or lane width exists. |
| US09182240B2 |
Method, apparatus and system for mapping a course of a mobile device
Techniques and mechanisms for providing information to represent a course traversed by a mobile device. In an embodiment, navigation logic of the mobile device determines context data other than any geodetic data that specifies a position of the mobile device. With such context data, the navigation logic determines a sequence of estimates each for a respective position of the device on a course traversed by the mobile device. In another embodiment, determining the sequence of estimates includes determining a first estimate of a first position of the mobile device independent of any geodetic data that specifies the first position. Course information representing such a determined sequence includes timestamp information for the first estimate. |
| US09182235B2 |
Locus correcting method, locus correcting apparatus, and mobile object equipment
Calculating a highly accurate locus is a goal. An administrative part (20) for correcting a traveling locus of a mobile object (V) is characterized by including an evaluation function generating unit (21) that sets a plurality of nodes on locus data of the mobile object (V) acquired by a wheel rotation quantity measuring unit (16), correlates position data of the mobile object (V) acquired by the wheel rotation quantity measuring unit (16) to the nodes and correlates position data of the mobile object (V) acquired by other units of measurement means than the wheel rotation quantity measuring unit to the nodes, represents positions at which the nodes may occur by probability, represents positions at which position data correlated to the nodes may occur by probability, and calculates an evaluation function including the nodes and the position data as variables, based on each probability; and a locus optimization calculation unit (22) that calculates a locus on which each node occurs with largest probability, based on the evaluation function. |
| US09182233B2 |
System and method for autocompletion and alignment of user gestures
In accordance with one embodiment, a navigation system includes a display device configured to detect user gestures, a data storage device including program instructions stored therein, a map stored within the data storage device, and a controller operatively coupled to the data storage device and the display device and configured to execute the program instructions to receive first user gesture data associated with a first portion of a first user gesture from the display device, generate a first predicted user gesture data based upon the stored map and the first user gesture data, and control the display device to render the first predicted user gesture data as the user is continuing the first user gesture. |
| US09182230B2 |
Systems and methods for controlling the gas conversion in a fiber-optic gyroscope
A fiber optic sensing coil apparatus for a fiber optic gyroscope is provided. In at least one embodiment, the fiber optic sensing coil apparatus comprises a housing providing a hermetically sealed chamber and an optical fiber disposed within the hermetically sealed chamber of the housing, wherein the optical fiber is disposed in a coil. A gas including oxygen is disposed in the hermetically sealed chamber between the coil of the optical fiber and the housing. Moreover, an adhesive is amongst the optical fiber, wherein the adhesive holds the optical fiber together in the coil; and, a layer of oxygen blocking material is disposed on an outer surface of the coil of optical fiber, wherein the oxygen blocking material has an oxygen transmission rate less than 15 cc/m2/day. |
| US09182229B2 |
Enhanced position measurement systems and methods
Novel solutions for position measurement, including without limitation tools and techniques that can be used for land surveying and in similar applications. One such tool is a greatly enhanced position measurement system that takes the form of a surveying rod with substantial independent functionality, which can be used with or without a total station or similar device. |
| US09182219B1 |
Overlay measurement based on moire effect between structured illumination and overlay target
A method and system for overly measurement is disclosed. The overlay measurement is performed based on moiré effect observed between structured illumination grids and overlay targets. A structured illumination is used to illuminate a first overlay target and a second overlay target. Upon obtaining an image of the first overlay target illuminated by the structured illumination and an image of the second overlay target illuminated by the structured illumination, relative displacement between the first overlay target and the structured illumination and relative displacement between the second overlay target and the structured illumination are measured. The overlay between the first overlay target and the second overlay target is then measured based on their relative displacements with respect to the structured illumination. |
| US09182214B2 |
Method and circuit arrangement for checking the rotor position of a synchronous machine
An electronically-commutated synchronous system and method includes a permanently-excited rotor and a stator which is provided with three phase windings, together with three rotor position sensors in an appropriate arrangement for a first commutation scheme. The rotor position is determined by the read-out of data from the position sensors. The appropriate voltage vector is defined by a second commutation scheme, and the second rotor position thus determined is compared with the first commutation scheme. If the rotor position sensors are operating correctly, the position of the rotor may be determined to an accuracy which is equivalent to the interval between two columns in the commutation table. |
| US09182211B2 |
Field interchangable boresight mounting system and calibration method
A calibration method comprises providing a mounting fixture including a tray coupled to a frame, and an alignment measurement sensor removably coupled to the tray. An angular orientation of the tray is determined using the alignment measurement sensor removably coupled to the tray in a first position. The alignment measurement sensor is then moved to a second position on the tray that is rotated from the first position, and the angular orientation of the tray is determined using the alignment measurement sensor at the second position. An axis misalignment for at least two of a pitch axis, a roll axis, or a yaw axis of the alignment measurement sensor is then calculated to determine one or more misalignment factors. The one or more misalignment factors are then applied to correct for misalignment of the alignment measurement sensor. |
| US09182209B1 |
Methods for measuring distance
One or more specific embodiments disclosed herein includes a method for manually measuring the distance between a first and second point, comprising: providing a measuring device, placing the measuring device between the first and second points, moving the first or second elongated members, or both, from the first position to the second position, and determining the distance between the first and second points. The measuring device comprises: a first and second elongated member, wherein the first and second elongated members are disposed in substantially parallel relation to each other and are movable in relation to one another between a first and second position and a first scale that provides a first distance measurement and a second scale that provides a second distance measurement, wherein the distance between the first and second points is based at least in part on the combination of the first and second distance measurements. |
| US09182207B2 |
Liquid electrically initiated and controlled gas generator composition
A liquid electrically initiated and controlled composition comprising an oxidizer, soluble fuel additive(s), and other optional additives to enhance the chemical or ballistic properties, or a combination thereof is disclosed. The liquid composition further comprises stabilizers to enhance thermal stability, sequestrants to minimize deleterious effects of transition metal contaminants, and combustion enhancers maximizing efficiency. Buffers and heavy metal sequestering or complexing agents may be used in combination to achieve the highest degree of thermal stability. Additional ionic co-oxidizers may be added to the liquid composition to stabilize the liquid oxidizer and further depress freezing point. The liquid phase of matter allows flow via pipes or tubes from tanks, reservoirs, or other containers, through metering valves, followed by ignition or combustion modulation when stimulated by electrodes, statically or dynamically. |
| US09182206B2 |
Method for lifting a firing safety detent and projectile using this method
According to the invention, in order to lift said safety detent, use is made of a multi-vane fan (5), which is arranged inside the fuselage (2) of the projectile, but the vanes (4) of which pass through said fuselage (2) via a lateral opening (3). |
| US09182203B2 |
Firearm cartridge primer removal tools
Firearm cartridge primer removal tools include a base configured to support a plurality of spent firearm cartridge casings, and a plurality of primer removal pins supported relative to the base and configured to be operatively translated toward and into engagement with, and to remove, primers from spent firearm cartridge casings supported by the base. |
| US09182200B2 |
Armor having prismatic, tesselated core
An armor includes a core that, in turn, includes a first layer of prismatic elements arranged in a tessellated fashion and a second layer of prismatic elements arranged in a tessellated fashion. The first layer of prismatic elements is nested into the second layer of prismatic elements. An armor includes a strike face sheet, a rear face sheet, and a core disposed between the strike face sheet and the rear face sheet. The core includes a first layer of prismatic elements arranged in a tessellated fashion, a second layer of prismatic elements arranged in a tessellated fashion, and a strain isolation layer. The first layer of prismatic elements is nested into the second layer of prismatic elements with the strain isolation layer disposed between the first layer of prismatic elements and the second layer of prismatic elements. The armor is at least one of curved in at least one direction, configured to include a corner, and configured to include a prismatic element of the first layer of prismatic elements or the second layer of prismatic element having a metallic layer disposed thereon. |
| US09182199B2 |
Mine defeat system and pyrotechnic dart for same
The invention provides a method and a system for defeating a target containing a flammable or explosive fill and an incendiary penetrating projectile for use in the method and the system. The incendiary penetrating projectile contains a non-detonating incendiary composition that is ignited prior to penetrating a target. |
| US09182198B2 |
Wearable personal protection device with safety mechanism
A personal protection apparatus includes a glove; a reservoir supported on the glove, and housing a sprayable repellant therein; a valve electrically operable to control the flow of fluid from the reservoir into a delivery tube; and a switch for actuating the valve. The switch includes contacts on thumb and index finger portions of the glove so as to close the switch and activate the spray of repellant when the thumb is positioned between the index finger and middle finger. |
| US09182196B2 |
Dual hardness steel article
A dual hardness steel article comprises a first air hardenable steel alloy having a first hardness metallurgically bonded to a second air hardenable steel alloy having a second hardness. A method of manufacturing a dual hard steel article comprises providing a first air hardenable steel alloy part comprising a first mating surface and having a first part hardness, and providing a second air hardenable steel alloy part comprising a second mating surface and having a second part hardness. The first air hardenable steel alloy part is metallurgically secured to the second air hardenable steel alloy part to form a metallurgically secured assembly, and the metallurgically secured assembly is hot rolled to provide a metallurgical bond between the first mating surface and the second mating surface. |
| US09182194B2 |
Front-grip lighting device
A fore grip for a firearm houses a light source and power source. The light source is preferably a laser and the power source is preferably one or more batteries. A first switch is connected to a PCB and can be moved to respective positions that correspond to each of various operating conditions, such as continuously on, continuously off, and on when a second switch is activated. |
| US09182192B2 |
Reversible expandable baton
An expandable baton assembly has an outer baton section which received an intermediate baton section and an inner baton section telescopically received therein such that an overall length between two opposing working ends of the assembly can be extended for use and retracted for storage. Each of the two opposing ends is suitably arranged as both a hand grip and a striking portion such that the assembly is reversible between two different working orientations having different characteristics. The assembly can be retained in the retracted position by frictional engagement of the grip at the working end of the inner baton section within the open inner end of the outer baton section. |
| US09182191B2 |
Pneumatic gun having mechanically-actuated pneumatic valve
According to principles of the present inventive concepts, a mechanically-actuated pneumatic valve can comprise an input port receiving compressed gas from a compressed gas regulator and one or more output ports. A face seal can be arranged in the valve body and be configured to move between two positions. In a first position, the face seal can permit compressed gas from the input port to be supplied to a first output port. In a second position, the face seal can vent compressed gas from the valve body through an exhaust port. An actuator, such as a pin or pin-shaped actuator, for example, can be configured and arranged to move the face seal from the first position to the second position, such as during a trigger pull. A contact surface could be configured to physically contact a surface of the pin-shaped actuator (either directly from the trigger or through one or more other components or mechanisms) and drive the face seal to its second position during actuation of the trigger. |
| US09182185B2 |
Apparatus for loading cartridges into a firearm magazine
An apparatus for loading cartridges into a firearm magazine, including a funnel portion for intake of one or more cartridges, a guide box attached to the funnel portion, a cassette attached to the guide box, a slider attached to the cassette, and a magazine attached to the slider. |
| US09182184B2 |
Magazine for a handgun
The invention relates to a magazine for a handgun, comprising a chamber that accommodates the ammunition and a magazine head that is suitable for being accommodated by the magazine shaft in the breechblock housing of the gun, characterized in that according to the invention an ejector plate is arranged on the magazine head and means are provided for changing the relative position of said ejector plate in the magazine shaft when a magazine is inserted. The solution according to the invention makes it possible to change the position of the magazine head in the magazine shaft by means of an adjusting mechanism and thus to also change the relative position of the ejector plate, which is now on the magazine head, in the magazine shaft. In the process, the position of the ejector plate relative to the feeding web of the breechblock generally changes. By adjusting the position of the magazine head, the ejection angle and/or the ejection path of the cartridge case and the position of the fed cartridge relative to the cartridge chamber of the weapon can also be changed if applicable. |
| US09182180B2 |
Clamping device for flow module plates, reactor plates or heat exchanger plates
The present invention relates to a clamping device comprising two end plates (2, 7), springs (1), and tension rods (8), wherein the springs (1) are arranged on a supporting element to distribute clamping forces on one or more flow module plates, one or more reactor plates, one or more heat exchanger plates, or combinations thereof, which plates (6) are placed between the two end plates (2, 7). The present invention relates also to a method for opening and closing a plate reactor or a flow module, and uses of the clamping device. |
| US09182177B2 |
Heat transfer system with integrated evaporator and condenser
Two phase heat transfer systems including integrated fluid transfer paths for exchange of a working fluid between an evaporator and condenser. Separate fluid transfer paths may be defined for communication of working fluid between the evaporator and condenser, wherein at least one of the fluid transfer paths is integrated with the evaporator and/or condenser. In one embodiment, both first and second fluid transfer paths are integrally provided to establish direct fluid communication between the evaporator and condenser to facilitate flow of vaporized and condensed working fluid respectively. |
| US09182176B2 |
Heat exchanger
A low cost heat exchanger exhibits high performance in relation to heat resistance, pressure resistance, prevention of fluid leakage, and heat exchange efficiency. The heat exchanger is equipped with a stacked plate assembly having a plurality of stacked plates, and a hollow tubular casing, which accommodates the stacked plate assembly and extends in the stacking direction. The stacked plate assembly includes the plurality of plates, sealing members for preventing leakage of fluid from fluid paths, and a fixing tool fastening together the plural plates at a position along the central axis thereof. In the heat exchanger, two types of fluids that undergo heat exchange flow in arcuate paths in the interior of hollow portions formed between two adjacent plates, without causing mutual mixing to occur between the two fluids. Adjacent hollow portions are connected in series through bypasses. |
| US09182167B2 |
Switch module and refrigerator having the same
Disclosed herein are a switch module and a refrigerator having the same. In the refrigerator with a dispenser installed on a door, a switch module to operate the dispenser includes a switch to operate the dispenser, a push button moving backwards by external force and applying pressure to the switch to operate the switch, and a switch case provided with a front surface on which the push button is arranged and receiving the switch therein, and the push button is installed on the switch case by a link assembly to simultaneously move upper and lower portions of the push button forwards and backwards. Therefore, the push button is uniformly operated regardless of a position to which the external force is applied. |
| US09182166B2 |
Vehicle evaporator core icing prevention
A climate controller device may be configured to perform operations including comparing an outside air temperature to a threshold temperature; selecting, based on the comparison, one of a function to determine target compressor off setpoint values for relatively lower temperatures and a function to determine target compressor off setpoint values for relatively higher temperatures; retrieving a value according to the selection function to determine target compressor off setpoint values, the value specifying a compressor off setpoint value corresponding to airflow configuration settings; and determining a target compressor off setpoint value based at least in part on the retrieved value. |
| US09182161B2 |
Turbo refrigeration unit, control device therefor, and control method therefor
An object is to provide a turbo-refrigeration-unit control device capable of achieving stable operation and reducing the amount of refrigerant. Provided is a control device for controlling a turbo refrigeration unit that includes a centrifugal compressor, a first-non-refrigerant pump for supplying a first non-refrigerant, a condenser that performs heat exchange between the first non-refrigerant and a refrigerant, an expansion valve that expands the refrigerant, a second-non-refrigerant pump for supplying a second non-refrigerant, an evaporator that performs heat exchange between the second non-refrigerant and the refrigerant, a bypass circuit that is used to inject part of the refrigerant from a discharge port of the centrifugal compressor into a suction port of the centrifugal compressor, and a bypass-circuit control valve that controls the flow rate of the refrigerant. |
| US09182160B2 |
Two stage dedicated heat recovery chiller
A dedicated heat recovery chiller/heater having a two step heat transfer arrangement is set out. A refrigerant to refrigerant heat transfer steep allows for higher temperature lift as compared to prior dedicated heat recovery systems. |
| US09182157B2 |
On-door ice maker cooling
A refrigerator includes a refrigerator cabinet, a refrigerator compartment disposed within the refrigerator cabinet, a refrigerator compartment door for providing access to the refrigerator compartment, an ice maker on the refrigerator compartment door, a thermoelectric cooler associated with the ice maker and operatively connected to the refrigerator compartment door, the thermoelectric cooler having a first side and an opposite second side, and a cooling loop operatively connected to the refrigerator compartment door and configured for cooling the thermoelectric cooler. |
| US09182156B2 |
Cryogenic refrigerator, cryopump and displacer
A two-stage GM cryogenic refrigerator includes a displacer having a low-temperature side and a high-temperature side and a motor configured to drive the displacer. The motor is configured to be rotatable forward in cooling and backward in increasing a temperature. The cryogenic refrigerator further includes a resin provided on an outer circumferential surface of the displacer. A thickness of the resin is thinner on the high-temperature side than on the low-temperature side. |
| US09182153B2 |
Ball bearing tracker assembly
A low friction ball bearing tracker assembly for use in spatial object, particularly solar tracking, the assembly including a housing, having a base and top cover affixed to the housing, the housing further including a spherical chamber for receiving a rounded orb and ball bearings sufficient to surround at least fifty percent of the surface area of the orb, for allowing the orb to swivel, and translate, while tracking the spatial object, the orb being affixed to a solid shaft having an oval cross section, such as an ellipse, with major and minor axes, whereby the solid shaft holds a plate for retaining an array of panels, the top cover of the assembly further including a recessed channel along the inner circumference of the top cover to accommodate additional ball bearings to allow additional range of low friction motion. |
| US09182149B2 |
Molten salt solar receiver and procedure to reduce the temperature gradient in said receiver
Molten salt solar receiver and procedure to reduce the temperature gradient in said receiver. The receiver consists of at least one panel of semi cylindrical geometry, formed by a combination of vertical pipes. The receiver (10) is supplied with a heat transfer fluid made up of molten salts which originate from a recirculation system which is composed of a mixture deposit (6), a hot salt storage tank (9) and a cold salt storage tank (8); the mixture tank (6) which is supplied by a part of the hot heat transfer fluid (4) which exits the receiver (10) and the cold heat transfer fluid (5) which exits the cold salt storage tank (8); the hot salt storage tank is connected to the exit of the receiver (10) so that a part of the heat transfer fluid which does not recirculate is stored (3). |
| US09182140B2 |
Battery-operated wireless zone controllers having multiple states of power-related operation
An Electronically-Controlled Register vent (ECRV) that can be easily installed by a homeowner or general handyman is disclosed. The ECRV can be used to convert a non-zoned HVAC system into a zoned system. The ECRV can also be used in connection with a conventional zoned HVAC system to provide additional control and additional zones not provided by the conventional zoned HVAC system. In one embodiment, the ECRV is configured have a size and form-factor that conforms to a standard manually-controlled register vent. In one embodiment, a zone thermostat is configured to provide thermostat information to the ECRV. In one embodiment, the zone thermostat communicates with a central monitoring system that coordinates operation of the heating and cooling zones. |
| US09182138B2 |
Method and apparatus for attic fan power controller with remote control
A method and apparatus for attic fan power controller with remote control have been disclosed. In one version a solar array and/or a power line source provides energy for a fan determined by a control box which also interfaces with a remote control. |
| US09182137B1 |
Low profile, high volume, filtered window fan
A low profile, high volume window fan has a large air filter mounted horizontally therein. The fan is enclosed in a rectangular box-like frame having a sloped top cover. The front section includes a squirrel cage blower, a front louvered section for directing the flow of air into the room, and a horizontally opening door for controlling the flow of air through the fan from either the outside air or the inside air, and for the insertion of the filter therein. The bottom surface includes an external opening for outside air. A double plenum is provided within the frame with the filter dividing the two plenums. When the door is closed, outside air is forced to flow into the second plenum, being in the bottom of the frame and under the filter and through the filter. When the door is opened, interior air is then filtered and circulated. |
| US09182131B1 |
Systems and methods for heat recovery
A filter unit heat exchanger is provided that may include a housing substantially surrounding a heat exchange assembly. Provided through the housing are one or more tortuous fluid flow paths used to direct airflow therethrough around portions of the heat exchange assembly for efficient operation. The tortuous path(s) may be provided by one or more nozzle openings on an input side of the housing and one or more diffuser openings on an output side of the housing, where the nozzle openings and diffuser openings are offset to cause desired airflow deflection. The filter unit may include desired symmetries to improve manufacturability and/or installation. |
| US09182130B2 |
Retractable ventilation system
A retractable ventilation system for a household appliance includes a lifting motor for moving the ventilation system in two opposing directions, and a switch controlling movement of the lifting motor. A first actuation of the switch moves the ventilation system in a first (or preferred) of the two directions, and a second actuation of the switch moves the ventilation system in a second direction opposing the first direction. Furthermore, a household appliance includes an extractor hood, a cooking appliance or a combination thereof, and at least one of the proposed retractable ventilation systems. A method for operating the retractable ventilation system is also described. |
| US09182129B2 |
System, device, and method for baking a food product
Devices, systems, and methods are provided for baking a food product in a portable baking oven. The baking oven includes a main body, lower and upper stones, a heat shield suspending the upper stone above the lower stone, and a heat element emanating heat upward to a rotating flat panel having the lower stone thereon. Convection heat from the heat element moves upward from below the rotating flat panel and past a periphery of the flat panel, channeled by the heat shield to the upper stone, to move along the upper stone, and then down along the heat shield, on the opposite side. With this arrangement, the heat element heats the upper and lower stones with convection heat moving between the lower and upper stones in a side-to-side manner. |
| US09182128B2 |
Home appliance with improved griddle cover
A home appliance having a griddle cover includes an appliance body; a cooktop on the appliance body and having a griddle; a griddle cover for removable disposition on the griddle for protecting the griddle from contaminants, the griddle cover including a cover body having a plurality of support elements on the cover body; and a mounting arrangement for removably mounting the griddle cover to the griddle including a plurality of feet mounted to the support elements for supporting the griddle cover on the griddle. |
| US09182126B2 |
Signature cooking
An oven includes a cooking chamber configured to receive a food product, a user interface configured to display information associated with processes employed for cooking, first and second energy sources, and a cooking controller. The first energy source provides primary heating and the second energy source provides secondary heating for the food product. The cooking controller executes instructions directing application of energy to the food product via the first or second energy sources. The cooking controller may include processing circuitry configured to receive an indication of cooking parameters defining at least a food product category of the food product and select a cooking signature corresponding to the food product category. The cooking signature may include information descriptive of inherent properties of the food product category and input response properties defining one or more sets of instructions associated with a cooking sequence for the food product based on the cooking parameters. |
| US09182122B2 |
Combustor and method for supplying flow to a combustor
A device for supplying flow across a combustor includes an axial fluid injector configured to circumferentially surround at least a portion of the combustor. An inner annular passage extends through the axial fluid injector and provides fluid communication through the axial fluid injector and into a first annular passage that surrounds the combustor. An outer annular passage extends through the axial fluid injector radially outward from the inner annular passage and provides axial flow into the first annular passage. A method for supplying flow to a combustor includes flowing a first portion of a working fluid through a first axial flow path and flowing a second portion of the working fluid through a second axial flow path. |
| US09182121B2 |
Process for operating a coal-fired furnace with reduced slag formation
There is provided a process for operating a coal-fired furnace to generate heat. The process has the steps of a) providing the coal to the furnace and b) combusting the coal in the presence of a first slag-reducing ingredient and a second slag-reducing ingredient in amounts effective to reduce slag formation in the furnace. The first slag-reducing ingredient and the second slag-reducing ingredient are different substances. The first slag-reducing ingredient is selected from the group consisting of magnesium carbonate, magnesium hydroxide, magnesium oxide, magnesium sulfate, and combinations thereof. The second slag-reducing ingredient is selected from the group consisting of copper acetate, copper nitrate, aluminum nitrate, aluminum oxide, aluminum hydroxide, and ammonium phosphate. There is also provided a method for reducing slag formation in a coal-fired furnace. |
| US09182120B2 |
Low-pollution burning method using system for individually controlling CO and NOx
The disclosure relates to a waste gas purification method, and more particularly, to a waste gas burning method of reducing CO and NOx by burning waste gases using a system for individually controlling CO and NOx. In accordance with the disclosure, there is provided a low-pollution burning method using a system for individually controlling CO and NOx including a waste gas introduction and flame injection step; a first waste gas burning step; and a second waste gas burning step. |
| US09182118B2 |
Combustion plate
A combustion plate for use in a totally aerated combustion burner has a ceramic plate body with a multiplicity of flame holes formed therein for ejecting a premixed gas. The plate body is provided, in a lattice shape, with non-flame-hole portions having no flame holes therein. Each of such regions of the plate body as are enclosed by the non-flame-hole portions constitutes a collective flame-hole portion having formed therein a plurality of flame holes. It is so arranged that flame lifting can be effectively prevented in the flame holes on the periphery of the collective flame-hole portions. Along each of such sides of the non-flame-hole portions as are adjacent to each of the collective flame-hole portions, outside flame holes are formed at a predetermined spacing therebetween in a longitudinal direction of the non-flame-hole portions. This predetermined spacing is greater than a spacing, in the longitudinal direction of the non-flame-hole portion. |
| US09182115B2 |
Fluid heating system
A fluid heat exchange system with a fluid flow circuit having a heat exchange fluid flow loop, a heat absorption component (as in a domestic hot water tank inclusive of small commercial use tanks as in tanks of 20 to 120 gallons), a heat exchanger and preferably also a pump. A controlled and automated fuel supply source based heater (as in a pellet stove) is in heat passage communication with the said heat exchanger. A control unit triggers activation of the pump upon fluid in the heat absorption component reaching or dropping below a preset temperature, and the fluid flow circuit is arranged such that, during times of non-activation of the pump, fluid is free to flow in a unidirectional flow within the fluid circuit based on thermodynamic temperature differentials alone. A retrofitting of a domestic hot water tank is also featured preferably making use of preexisting drain and safety vent porting for in-feed and out-feed porting in the exchange loop side. Also, the flow circuit preferably is free of check valves and steam accommodation equipment. |
| US09182114B2 |
Steam generator and method for generating steam
A method for generating steam from a feedwater inlet stream including impurities is disclosed. The method involves receiving the feedwater inlet stream at an inlet of a steam generator and causing the feedwater stream to flow through a tubing circuit to an outlet of the tubing circuit, the tubing circuit having a substantially un-rifled bore defined by a metal wall. The method also involves delivering a heat flux to the feedwater stream through the metal wall of the tubing circuit to generate steam by causing evaporation of feedwater within the tubing circuit, and controlling at least one of a flow rate of the feedwater stream and the heat flux to cause generation of an outlet stream at the outlet includes a steam portion and liquid phase portion, the steam portion being greater than about 80% of the outlet stream by mass. The steam portion provides sufficient cooling of the metal wall to maintain a wall temperature at less than a threshold temperature. |
| US09182108B2 |
Foldable support device for a stand lamp
A foldable support device for a stand lamp includes a lower support member and an upper support member, each including a front support component and a rear support component parallel to and arranged behind the front support component. Each of the front and rear support components includes a bottom support rod having an upper end, and a top support rod having a lower end pivoted to the upper end of the bottom support rod such that the top support rod is foldable downwardly toward one of left and right sides of the bottom support rod and upwardly away from the bottom support rod. |
| US09182106B2 |
Device for adjusting an optical tube arranged in the housing of a headlight or optical device
A device for adjusting an optical tube, which is disposed in a housing of a spotlight or optical device and which is guided in the housing in the direction of the optical axis of the spotlight or optical device is provided. An adjustment drive, an operating element and a brake device is disposed between the tube and the housing, which with the adjustment drive not activated connects the tube to the housing in a non-positive locking and/or positive-locking manner and which on activation of the adjustment drive releases the connection between the tube and the housing and enables adjustment of the tube along the optical axis of the spotlight or optical device. |
| US09182104B2 |
Lighting module and method for assembling such a module
A lighting module comprising an elliptical collector for reflecting in the direction of an optical element a beam originating from a light source. The module comprises a screen assembled along the path of the light beam so as to form a cutoff edge. In accordance with the invention, the light source, the elliptical collector and the screen are assembled on an active surface of a support, which additionally comprises a referencing wall. Means for pressing the screen against said active surface and for pushing the front face of the screen, which comprises the cutoff edge, against said referencing wall are provided. |
| US09182102B2 |
Reflector having reflection pattern for compensating for lighting characteristic of LED package and LED lamp including the same
A reflector having a reflection pattern for compensating for a lighting characteristic of an LED package includes a body configured to be matched and coupled with the LED package having a discontinuous chip arrangement structure to improve the lighting characteristic of the LED package for divergent light. The body includes an inner wall having a diameter which is increased upwardly to form a narrow bottom and a wide top and including an opening formed at a lower end thereof so as to arrange the LED package therein. The inner wall of the body is formed with a trigonometric cross-wave pattern part which is patterned such that sine wave-type waves curved to form peaks and valleys are arranged to cross in a horizontal direction and a vertical direction at predetermined intervals over the whole area. The reflection pattern can compensates for an incomplete lighting characteristic of an LED package itself. |
| US09182094B2 |
Hybrid optics LED headlamp
An optical system that collects 100% of the light emitted from the light source and effectively directs it into the desired beam pattern. This is achieved by a combination of different optical control methods including reflector and lens optics. The cost is controlled by a design that reduces the optical part count to 2 main components, which reduces manufacturing and assembling time and maintains proper alignment to the light source and system. |
| US09182092B2 |
Light fixture with adjustable direction lighting
A lighting fixture includes first and second elongated lamp carriage assembles supporting respective first and second elongated lamps and an enclosure including first and second spaced plates. The first lamp carriage assembly is fixedly coupled between the first and second plates for directing light output by the first lamp in a first direction. The second lamp carriage assembly is slidably and pivotally coupled at its ends to the first and second plates for directing light output by the second lamp in a second direction that crosses the first direction. The lighting fixture can further include a third elongated lamp carriage assembly supporting a third elongated lamp. The third lamp carriage assembly is slidably and pivotally coupled at its ends to the first and second plates for directing light output by the third lamp in a third direction that crosses the first and second directions. |
| US09182090B2 |
Solar powered lamp
A lighting element for a solar powered lantern is formed integrally with a bottle closure which can be threaded onto a discarded plastic bottle, such that the light emitting diodes (LEDs) of the lighting element extend into the bottle. The lighting element is powered by a rechargeable battery which is recharged by a photovoltaic panel positioned on the top surface of the bottle closure. |
| US09182088B2 |
Mobile lantern lighting device
A lantern lighting device includes a base portion defining a user interface, an upper portion coupled to the base portion and having an upper cover, an energy storage device disposed within at least one of the base portion and the upper cover, a first LED and a second LED coupled to the upper cover and configured to provide a first and a second light output, a divider coupled to the base portion and the upper cover, and a controller. The divider forms a partition between the first LED and the second LED that separates the first light output from the second light output. The controller selectively engages the first LED in a first operation mode to provide approximately 180 degrees of illumination or that engages both the first LED and the second LED in a second operation mode to provide approximately 360 degrees of illumination. |
| US09182087B2 |
Light guide and a light device incorporating the same
A light guide includes a light input surface which has two first edges, an output surface parallel to and larger than the input surface, and two connecting surfaces, each of which interconnects the light input surface and said light input surface and has an inclined segment. Relationships of θ<θT and L>(AD)/(tan θT) are satisfied, where θ is an included angle defined between extensions of the inclined segments of the connecting surfaces, θT is a critical angle for total internal reflection associated with the light guide, (L) is a distance between the light input and output surfaces, and (AD) is a distance between a location of incidence of a light beam on the light input surface and one of the first edges. |
| US09182085B2 |
LED lighting device with upper heat dissipating structure
A lighting device, or LED lamp 10 is described with a base element 12 for electrical contacting and mechanical mounting and an LED arrangement 20 with at least one LED element 70. The LED arrangement 20 is spaced from the base element 12 along a longitudinal axis L. In order to provide a lighting device and a lighting arrangement with a matched optical and thermal design, i. e. where both effective heat dissipation and an advantageous light intensity distribution are achieved, an upper heat dissipating structure 60 is arranged next to the LED arrangement 20 with at least one heat dissipation element 62 made out of a heat conducting material. The upper heat dissipating structure 60 is shaped to include at least a first end 64a and a second end 64b spaced from the first end 64a along a traverse axis T. The traverse axis T is substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis L. The LED arrangement 20 is arranged between the first and second ends 64a, 64b. |
| US09182080B2 |
Methods for storage and transportation of natural gas in liquid solvents
Systems and methods to create and store a liquid phase mix of natural gas absorbed in light-hydrocarbon solvents under temperatures and pressures that facilitate improved volumetric ratios of the stored natural gas as compared to CNG and PLNG at the same temperatures and pressures of less than −80° to about −120° F. and about 300 psig to about 900 psig. Preferred solvents include ethane, propane and butane, and natural gas liquid (NGL) and liquid pressurized gas (LPG) solvents. Systems and methods for receiving raw production or semi-conditioned natural gas, conditioning the gas, producing a liquid phase mix of natural gas absorbed in a light-hydrocarbon solvent, and transporting the mix to a market where pipeline quality gas or fractionated products are delivered in a manner utilizing less energy than CNG, PLNG or LNG systems with better cargo-mass to containment-mass ratio for the natural gas component than CNG systems. |
| US09182079B2 |
Closing device, housing part of a lubricant container, diagnostic system and diagnostic method for monitoring the operating state of a lubricant in the housing part
The invention relates to a housing part containing a lubricant reservoir and at least one respective inlet and outlet opening for filling and draining a lubricating fluid into and from the lubricant reservoir. The inlet and outlet openings are sealed by releasable closure devices each comprising a sensor means for determining the operation parameters in a lubricant contained in the lubricant reservoir and for generating and/or storing sensor signals, as well as a transceiver for the transmission of the sensor signals to an external processing unit. |
| US09182076B2 |
Touch entry display mount
A display mount is attached to a slatwall using an improved slatwall hanger. The display mount includes vertically pivoting arms providing forward and rearward movement of the display with only slight vertical movement. The slatwall hanger is attached to the slatwall by sandwiching at least one vertical face of a slat between a cover and a clamping member. The cover includes at least one outer lip residing against the front of the vertical face and the clamping member includes at least one inner lip residing against the rear of the vertical face. The clamping member is biased away from the cover by a spring to facilitate insertion of the inner lips between open spaces between consecutive slats. Screws connect the clamping member to the cover and are tightened to grasp the vertical slat face between the lips. |
| US09182073B2 |
Bracket and frame body having the same
A frame body includes a bottom plate, a connection portion, and a bracket. The bracket includes a first sidewall, a second sidewall, a bending portion, a positioning board, and a connection layer. The first sidewall has a first end connected to the connection portion and has a first surface facing away from the accommodating space. The second sidewall is adjacent to a side of the first sidewall that faces away from an accommodating space of the frame body. The second sidewall has a second surface facing the first surface. The bending portion is connected to a second end of the first sidewall that is distal to the connection portion and the second sidewall. The positioning board is connected to an end of the second sidewall that is distal to the bending portion. The connection layer adheres the first surface and the second surface. |
| US09182072B1 |
Hanger device and tote
An hanger apparatus including one or more extension elements with each extension element including a top portion and a bottom portion with the top portion having at least one flexible connector connection with the top portion also in communication with the bottom portion and the bottom portion including apertures for connecting a pool pole-head attachment, with the apparatus additionally including a flexible connector connecting to the at least one flexible connector connection of the top portion. |
| US09182071B2 |
Display stand
Disclosed herein is a display stand including: a base member having a pair of side surface sections, a front end section, and a back end section; a pair of arm sections; first hinge sections by which respective first end portions of the pair of arm sections are connected respectively to the pair of side surface sections of the base member so that the pair of arm sections can be turned relative to the base member; and second hinge sections by which second end portions of the pair of arm sections are connected to a display so that the display can be turned relative to the pair of arm sections. |
| US09182069B2 |
Systems and methods for adaptable mounts for attachment to cylindrical surfaces
An adaptable mount that enables two devices, or one device, such as handheld electronics, tools, and other physical objects, and one surface to be securely connected. One embodiment enables this connection by use of a flexible appendage that wraps around either or both the surface and the device to secure them. One embodiment enables a secure connection through the use of additional hardware so to complement the functionality of the device. |
| US09182063B2 |
Clamping collar tightened by a threaded rod and two nuts
Disclosed is a collar which includes a belt carrying first and second tightening lugs, a threaded tightening rod, and first and second nuts that co-operate respectively with the lugs so as to bring them towards each other by screw engagement with the rod. The second nut is retained so that it is prevented from moving in rotation relative to the second lug and the rod has first and second threads that co-operate respectively with the first nut and with the second nut in such a manner that driving the first nut in its screwing direction successively causes said first nut to be screwed onto the first thread, and the tightening rod to be driven, thereby screwing said tightening rod into the second nut. |
| US09182058B2 |
Fitting having receptacle of varying depth
Elbow and tee fittings for joining pipe elements together include housing portions held preassembled in spaced apart relation to permit pipe elements to be inserted without disassembly of the fitting, the fittings having a receptacle of varying depth for receiving a sealing element. |
| US09182057B2 |
Retractable elastic bungee hose
A retractable elastic pressure hose 30, comprising an inlet connector 22, an outlet connector 28, an inner elastic tube 34, and an outer cover 36. Outer cover 36 is designed to expand and contract radially and longitudinally in response to internal pressure and external tensions on the hose. Internal pressure within the hose tends to extend the elastic pressure hose against the retracting force of the inner elastic tube. Outer cover 36 can have a hollow circular braid structure similar to the cover on a bungee cord and is designed to stretch beyond its fully extended length by applying external tension on the elastic pressure hose. |
| US09182055B2 |
Cable drag chain
A cable drag chain includes a first chain including a plurality of first connecting members each including a base plate and two mounting plates each defining a slot, a second chain including a plurality of second connecting members each including a base board and two mounting boards each defining a through hole, and two latching members each including a post. The base plates are coupled with each other end-to-end to form the first chain, and the base boards are coupled with each other end-to-end to form the second chain. The two posts of the two latching members detachably engage in the two slots of the first connecting member and the two slots of the second connecting member located at two opposite ends of the cable drag chain. |
| US09182052B2 |
Method and apparatus for controlling gas flow via a gas shut-off valve assembly
The present invention comprises a method and apparatus for controlling gas flow via a gas shut-off valve assembly. In at least one embodiment, the assembly is configured to drive its shut-off valve from an open position to a closed position, in response to detecting a valve closure condition. The assembly in one or more embodiments operates as an intelligent node in an AMR network, and it interprets a received closure command as a closure condition. Additionally, or alternatively, the assembly detects abnormal operating conditions as the closure condition. Advantageously, the assembly performs initial closure verification, based on detecting movement of the valve into the closed position, and performs subsequent closure verification, based on monitoring downstream gas pressure. In the same or other embodiments, the assembly provides enhanced stand-alone reliability and safety by incorporating one or more valve clearing/cleaning routines into its operations. |
| US09182050B2 |
Piston cap with center vent
A flushometer having a cap with a substantially central exhaust passage adapted to remove air from the control chamber. The exhaust passage provides for communication between an upper pressure chamber and an interior piston chamber wherein during a flush cycle a portion of the contents of the upper pressure chamber is evacuated through the exhaust passage into the interior piston chamber and ultimately through the outlet of the flushometer. |
| US09182043B2 |
Valve device for high voltage cable insulator manufacturing
A valve device for use in a feeding apparatus releases raw material into raw material processing machinery for the manufacture of high-voltage cable. The valve device includes a valve body including a first valve member having a conical shape and including at least one opening extending between a tip of the first valve member and a corresponding base portion of the first valve member, and a second valve member including at least one cover element. One of the valve members is rotatable with respect to the other valve member between a first operating position in which the at least one cover element uncovers the at least one opening, thereby allowing the raw material to flow through the valve device, and a second operating position in which the at least one cover element covers the at least one opening, thereby preventing raw material from flowing through the valve device. |
| US09182042B2 |
Mixed media orbital valve
Embodiments of the invention described herein thus provide improved flush valves that are designed with improved venting features and improved inlet designs. The described venting features and inlet designs, either alone or in combination, can help prevent ingestion of waste into the interior of the valve. |
| US09182038B2 |
Cooker with steam generating function
Provided is a cooker with a steam generating function without leakage of water and having excellent reliability and durability. A connecting member is formed of a soft material, and is guided by a convex-shaped guide portion having a rounded tip when it is inserted into an opening concave portion of a water tank (FIG. 4), and a convex-shaped seal portion for ensuring a seal can uniformly contact the opening concave portion. Moreover, the convex-shaped seal portion for ensuring the seal is integrally formed with a connection portion 3. Therefore, the durability and the reliability for slipping-off prevention can be enhanced, and the number of components can also be reduced. |
| US09182037B2 |
Control device for vehicle
When an operating point that is determined by the engine speed (Ne), the engine torque (Te), and the vehicle speed falls within the zones of both a first vibration risk region (α1) and a second vibration risk region (α2), the dwell time (ΔT1) thereof is measured, and once this dwell time (ΔT1) reaches a predetermined vibration assessment time (ΔT1_Lim), the gear ratio of the continuously variable transmission is corrected towards the large side (low side) so that the operating point is moved out of the vibration risk regions (α1, α2). |
| US09182036B2 |
Binary clutch disengagement control in a neutral shift
A vehicle includes an engine, a transmission having a friction clutch and a binary clutch assembly, and a controller. The controller executes a method to detect the requested shift of the transmission to neutral, and when a set of conditions are satisfied during the requested shift, to automatically decrease a pressure command to the friction clutch such that torque capacity of the friction clutch decreases from a full torque capacity and begins to slip. The controller holds the binary clutch assembly at a calibrated pressure while the friction clutch slips, disengages the binary clutch assembly only when the binary clutch assembly is released and not loaded, and increases the pressure command to the friction clutch to restore full torque capacity to the friction clutch and complete the requested shift to neutral. |
| US09182033B2 |
Method for initializing the mass of a motor vehicle
A method of initializing the mass of a motor vehicle, in particular when the motor vehicle is re-started or when it is at rest, for the control of a starting process of the motor vehicle. From measured and/or calculated operating parameters of the motor vehicle, an operating situation of the motor vehicle is determined and, on the basis of the operating situation determined and as a function of operating situation dependent loading and/or unloading patterns, the mass of the motor vehicle is initialized. |
| US09182028B2 |
Torsional impact damping and decoupling pulley
A pulley assembly for an automobile auxiliary apparatus, such as an alternator, that dampens torsional impacts and reduces the stress on the auxiliary apparatus, the belt drive system and other apparatuses, by use of both wear-prone damping elements and a one-way overrunning clutch mechanism allowing for the free run of the pulley shaft. |
| US09182025B2 |
Torque converter damper with dual input
A damper for a torque converter includes a first clutch arranged for selective engagement with a cover for the torque converter, a first spring, a second spring, and a first plate drivingly engaged with the first spring and the second spring. The damper also includes a second plate and a third plate. The second plate is axially displaceable relative to the first plate, drivingly engaged with one of the first or the second spring, and arranged for fixing to a turbine for the torque converter. The third plate is axially displaceable relative to the first and second plates, fixed to the first clutch, and drivingly engaged with the one of the first or second spring. |
| US09182024B2 |
Multi-stage transmission
A multi-stage transmission having more stages using planetary gear sets and employing a forced return means for achieving smooth shifting in a forward operation by acceleration manipulation and a reverse operation by deceleration manipulation is provided. The multi-stage transmission includes a shaft with both ends fixed, a sprocket for receiving a rotational force and a hub shell for outputting the rotational force; a shifting unit comprising one-way clutches and planetary gear sets, each of planetary gear sets being composed of a sun gear, planetary gears, a carrier and a ring gear provided within the hub shell to change the rotational force input through the sprocket and to output the changed rotational force to the hub shell; and a control unit for controlling shifting by controlling pawls provided on the shaft according to manipulation of a shift lever to selectively restrict rotation of the sun gear. |
| US09182019B2 |
Thermoforming trim press
A thermoforming trim press and a drive assembly for a thermoforming trim press are provided. The drive assembly includes a frame, a drive motor, a drive linkage, a first bevel gear, and a second bevel gear. The drive motor is supported by the frame. The first bevel gearbox is supported by the frame and has an input shaft coupled with a drive gear, an output shaft coupled with a ring gear, and a housing supporting the input shaft, the output shaft, the drive gear and the output shaft in meshed gear rotation. The second bevel gearbox is supported by the frame in opposed relation with the first bevel gearbox and has an input shaft coupled with a drive gear, an output shaft coupled with a ring gear, and a housing supporting the input shaft, the output shaft, the drive gear and the output shaft in meshed gear rotation, the second bevel gearbox driven via the drive linkage with the output shaft driving in counter-rotation relative to the output shaft of the first bevel gearbox. A method for driving a moving platen on a trim press is also provided using opposed, identical beveled gearboxes. |
| US09182016B2 |
Drive hub
A drive hub for two-wheeled vehicles with a hub body and with a fixed axle and with a sprocket carrier on which a plurality of sprockets is provided. The sprocket carrier is rotatably supported on the axle by way of at least one bearing. The sprocket carrier includes a circumferentially closed sleeve device on which at least one sprocket is disposed radially outwardly and on which two axially spaced bearings are provided radially inwardly for rotatably supporting the sprocket carrier on the axle via the bearings. |
| US09182011B2 |
Fan drive gear system flexible support features
A disclosed gear assembly support for a gas turbine engine includes a first portion configured for attachment to a case of the gas turbine engine and a second portion configured for supporting a gear assembly. The support further includes a snap portion defining a fit within the case. The snap portion includes a tunable feature for adjusting a fit within the case. A torque reacting portion of the support transfers torque from the second portion to the first portion separate from the snap portion and include separately tunable features for adjusting the snap fit independent of the torque transfer portions. |
| US09182000B2 |
Spring element for a drug delivery device, use thereof and drug delivery device
A spring element for a drug delivery device is proposed, the spring element comprising multiple windings with two windings being mechanically coupled to each other by a rigid transverse connection. Furthermore, a drug delivery device comprising such a spring element and using such a spring element in a drug delivery device are proposed. |
| US09181999B2 |
Caliper body of a disc brake
The invention illustrates a caliper body (1) for a disc brake, suitable for being arranged astride of a disc (40) for a disc brake, said disc (40) defining a first braking surface (41) and a second braking surface (42) opposite the first braking surface (41); said caliper body (1) comprising a first half-caliper (2) and a second half-caliper (3), which are obtained by casting without machining and are suitable for being connected together at respective contact surfaces (4′, 4″) defining a joining plane (P) of the half-calipers; said first half-caliper (2) comprising a wheel-side elongated portion (5), extending in a tangential direction, which is suitable for facing an axially inner surface thereof towards the first braking surface (41), and at least one first projecting portion (11), projecting in an axial direction provided with a first contact surface (4′) suitable for connecting with the second half-caliper (3); said second half-caliper (3) comprising a vehicle-side elongated portion (6), extending in a tangential direction, which is suitable for facing an axially inner surface towards the second braking surface (42), an attachment portion (7) suitable for being connected to a support for the caliper and at least one second projecting portion (12), projecting in an axial direction provided with a second contact surface (4″) suitable for connecting with the first half-caliper (2); the first projecting portion (11) and the second projecting portion (12) being suitable for being connected together at the respective contact surfaces (4′, 4″) so as to form at least one bridge astride of the disc (40); each of said first projecting portion (11) and said second projecting portion (12) being provided with a radially inner surface (13′, 13″) suitable for facing the disc (40) that forms an angle α of between 90° and 92° with the respective contact surface (4′, 4″); in which the first projecting portion (11) extends farther in the axial direction with respect to the second projecting portion (12) so that said half-caliper joining plane (P) is axially closer to the vehicle-side elongated portion (6) with respect to the wheel-side elongated portion (5). |
| US09181994B2 |
Freewheel hub for a bicycle
The invention relates to a freewheel hub for a bicycle including an axle and housing rotatably mounted thereon. A sprocket arrangement is mounted on the hub axle and a freewheel is arranged between the hub and the sprocket arrangement. The freewheel has a first coupling ring which couples to the hub and a second coupling ring which couples to the sprocket arrangement. The first and second coupling rings have respective tooth systems facing one another which are arrangeable into and out of mutual torque-transmitting engagement. |
| US09181989B2 |
Decoupler assembly
A decoupler assembly that includes a hub, a pulley and a mechanism for transmitting rotary power between the hub and the pulley. The mechanism includes a torsion spring and a one-way clutch. The torsion spring is configured to dampen vibration in the rotary power that is transmitted from the pulley to the hub. The one-way clutch has a wrap spring that is smaller in diameter than the torsion spring. |
| US09181986B2 |
Constant velocity universal joint
There is provided a constant velocity universal joint having excellent durability at high temperature while using a boot made of silicone rubber that does not include cerium oxide or other rare earth element-containing compound. The constant velocity universal joint is provided with an outer joint member (2), an inner joint member (4), a shaft (8) coupled to the inner joint member (4), and a boot (9) mounted directly or via another member to the outer joint member (2) and the shaft (8), the boot (9) being a molded article of a silicone rubber composition including silicone rubber, iron oxide, and titanium oxide and not including a rare earth element-containing compound. The silicone rubber composition furthermore includes barium zirconate as required. |
| US09181985B2 |
Shaft collar and shaft coupling assemblies
A shaft collar and shaft coupling assemblies adapted for use in the food-processing and similar industries. The assemblies include a shaft collar or shaft coupling disposed within an associated multi-element shroud. The shroud provides a cover overlying the collar or coupling, eliminating exposed features that can trap food particles, thereby effecting a high level of cleanliness of food-processing equipment upon which the collar or coupling is secured, while retaining many of the advantages of a conventional collar or coupling. |
| US09181984B2 |
Alignment feature for hub and driveshaft assembly
A hub-driveshaft assembly comprises a hub and driveshaft with a flat portion having a width. The hub comprises a body having an axial bore therethrough, a set screw hole extending radially through a wall of the body and communicating with the axial bore, and an alignment feature positioned near an entrance to the axial bore, wherein the alignment feature substantially aligns the flat portion of the driveshaft with the set screw hole when the driveshaft is inserted into the axial bore. In another embodiment, the hub comprises an alignment feature to promote proper alignment of the driveshaft with respect to the hub when the driveshaft is inserted into the axial bore, wherein the alignment feature is eliminated under load. In yet another embodiment, the hub comprises an alignment feature that flattens in response to loading from the driveshaft. |
| US09181982B2 |
Blade bearing with support structure having non-uniform stiffness and method manufacture
A blade bearing for mounting a blade of a wind turbine to a hub of the wind turbine comprises inner and outer rings arranged next to each other. One of the inner and outer rings is configured to mount to the blade, and the other is configured to mount to the hub. At least two rows of rolling elements are positioned between the inner and outer rings. Upper and lower rows of the rolling elements are located in respective upper and lower planes. A support structure is secured to the inner ring and extends in a substantially radial direction between the upper and lower planes. The support structure has non-uniform stiffness characteristics in a circumferential direction. A method of manufacturing a blade bearing is also provided. |
| US09181979B2 |
Hybrid type magnet bearing system
A hybrid type permanent magnet bearing system which utilizes four permanent magnet rings to replace the mechanical bearings. These rings are divided into two separated groups along an axis, where each group has an inner ring and a separated outer ring. At least one permanent magnet ring has a surface facing the gap between the two groups but being not vertical to the axis. Hence, inside the gap, the magnetic field between these permanent magnet rings is not non-uniform over different directions, and then it may behave as the axial and radical bearing simultaneously. |
| US09181978B2 |
Grooved thrust bearing
Provided herein is an apparatus, including an inner component, wherein the inner component includes a thrust plate; an outer component, wherein the inner component and the outer component are positioned for relative rotation, and wherein the inner component and the outer component are positioned to form at least one bearing having a groove pattern that imparts a predetermined direction to the rotational motion of the inner component and the outer component; and a gas inlet operable to receive a pressurized gas. |
| US09181974B1 |
Suction cup attachment device
A device to semi-permanently attach suction cup mounts that previously lost functionality is provided. Further, the device provides attachment without marring a mounting surface, or substrate. The present invention consists of a thin barrier preferably metal foil of circular shape with a pressure sensitive adhesive on one side. An additional adhesive is provided to apply between the barrier assembly and a suction cup. This structural barrier assembly provides a cost effective way to make use of nonfunctioning suction cup mounts or mounted devices without replacing the mount or device. |
| US09181973B2 |
Components and uses for robust thread clamping device
The present invention relates to a thread clamping device including a plurality of movable nut segments around a threaded rod, and spring members flexibly holding the segments against the rod. The thread clamping device has a structure adapted to accommodate substantially planar outer surfaces of the nut segments engaging planar surfaces of the end housing of the device, leading to a more robust device and improved performance. Such a thread clamping device can advantageously be used as a component of a self-adjusting shrinkage compensation device, a coupler for threaded rods, hold-downs, among other uses. Various embodiments of the thread clamping device include a multi nut configuration, a quick release embodiment, and embodiments including mechanical or magnetic clip attachments. |
| US09181970B2 |
Drilling screw
A drilling screw contains on its front end facing away from the screw head a drill bit having two drilling cutters. At an axial distance from the drilling cutters the screw shank has a constriction, within which the diameter of the screw shank is smaller than the diameter of the hole produced by the drill bit. The constriction is configured such that it has a shoulder running almost transversely to the longitudinal axis and facing the screw head and from which the diameter gradually approaches again the core diameter of the shank. Within this constriction begins the thread, wherein the thread edge initially has a distance from the longitudinal axis of the screw which corresponds roughly to the radius of the hole. The thread edge then runs along a spiral up to the final outer diameter of the thread on the shank. |
| US09181967B2 |
Coupler
A coupler includes a first hollow sleeve, a plurality of tapered clamps and a second hollow sleeve. The first hollow sleeve is formed with a first inner threaded portion on the inner face of one end while the other end thereof a tapered face. The diameter of tapered face increases toward the first inner threaded portion. The outer face of each tapered clamp is formed with a second tapered face, which contacts the first tapered face. The inner face of each tapered clamp has a plurality of teeth conforming to one end portion of the first bar. One end of the second hollow sleeve is formed with a first outer threaded portion and the first outer threaded portion conforms to the first inner threaded portion. The second hollow sleeve is formed with a second inner threaded portion, which matches a second outer threaded portion of the second bar. |
| US09181965B2 |
Hydraulic apparatus control system
A hydraulic apparatus control system includes a plurality of directional control valves. Each valve serves to selectively convey pressurized fluid to a hydraulic consumer which is detachably connected to a respective hydraulic output. A plurality of user interface devices control the valves. A terminal includes a display and user input means. The display displays a graphic associated with each hydraulic output. Each graphic includes a displayed user-definable label. |
| US09181950B2 |
Motor-driven compressor
A motor-driven compressor that suppresses the transmission of vibration and noise to the exterior, while obtaining heating performance that is sufficient for use in a heat pump. The motor-driven compressor includes a compressor mechanism, which compresses a refrigerant, and a motor mechanism, which actuates the compressor mechanism. The motor-driven compressor further includes an inner housing, which accommodates the compressor mechanism and the motor mechanism in a sealed state, and an outer housing, which accommodates the inner housing. The outer housing includes a mounting portion that can be mounted to another member. A first intermediate member is arranged between the inner housing and the outer housing. The first intermediate member includes anti-vibration and thermal insulation properties. |
| US09181948B2 |
Liquid ring compressor
A liquid ring rotating casing compressor (LRRCC), including a shaft, an impeller having a core and a plurality of radially extending vanes rotatably coupled to the shaft, a tubular casing having an inner surface and an outer surface eccentrically rotatably disposed with the impeller and disc-shaped portions laterally coupled to the vanes and/or to the core. The casing defines with the impeller a compression zone, wherein edges of the vanes rotate in increasing proximity to an inner surface of the casing and an expansion zone and edges of the vanes rotate in increasing spaced-apart relationship along an inner surface of the casing. An inlet port communicates with the expansion zone, an outlet port communicates with the compression zone, and there is also provided a drive for rotating motion to the casing. |
| US09181946B2 |
Lubricant pump and control piston
A lubricant pump includes a housing in which at least one pair of intermeshing gear wheels is arranged for conveying lubricant. One gear wheel is rotatably supported on a drive shaft and the other gear wheel is rotatably supported on an axially shiftable displacement unit for adjusting a variable flow volume. Axially displaceable in a housing receptacle is a control piston for hydraulically adjusting the position of the displacement unit. The control piston is configured as composite structural part and has a central longitudinal shaft and cylinder rings which include control edges for clearing or closing control channels feeding into the receptacle. The cylinder rings are made from a material which reduces friction and/or wear with respect to the receptacle, and the central longitudinal shaft has at least one section made from a material having a coefficient of thermal expansion at least substantially corresponding to the one of the receptacle. |
| US09181944B2 |
High pressure pump having unitary discharge and relief valve
A valve body is provided with a discharge relief portion. A relief valve outlet is formed in an end face thereof on a central axis of the valve body. Discharge valve inlets are point-symmetrically formed with respect to the central axis. A discharge valve outlet is formed in another end face thereof and relief valve inlets are point-symmetrically formed with respect to the central axis. A discharge valve outlet and the discharge valve inlets communicate with each other. A flow of fuel from a pressurization chamber to a fuel discharge port is restricted by a discharge valve member capable of closing the discharge valve outlet. The relief valve outlet and the relief valve inlets communicate with each other. A flow of fuel from the fuel discharge port to the pressurization chamber is restricted by a relief valve member capable of closing the relief valve outlet. |
| US09181939B2 |
Compressor crankcase heating control systems and methods
A crankcase heating control system for a heat pump system includes a data receiving module and a power control module. The data receiving module receives data indicative of a temperature of a compressor of the heat pump system, data indicative of an ambient temperature, and data indicative of a current date and a current time. The power control module selectively applies power to a heater of a crankcase of the compressor and selectively disables the heater based on the temperature of the compressor, the ambient temperature, the current date, and the current time. |
| US09181936B2 |
Swash plate compressor
A swash plate compressor 1 includes a swash plate 3 which rotates around a rotary shaft 2, a piston 4 which moves forward and backward in response to the rotation of the swash plate 3 and in which a hemispherical concave sliding surface 4a is formed, and a shoe 5 in which there are formed a flat end surface portion 12 which comes into sliding contact with the swash plate 3 and a spherical surface portion 11 which comes into sliding contact with the sliding surface 4a of the piston 4. A columnar portion 13 is formed between the spherical surface portion 11 and the end surface portion 12 in the shoe 5, and in a boundary area between the columnar portion 13 and the spherical surface portion 11, there is formed a spherical-surface-portion side flange 14 which protrudes radially outward and constitutes the spherical surface portion. |
| US09181931B2 |
Geothermal energy collection system
This invention provides a method of extracting geothermal energy, generally comprising the steps of: insertion of a thermal mass into a Heat Absorption Zone, absorbing heat in thermal mass, raising the thermal mass to a Heat Transfer Zone, and transferring the heat from the thermal mass. The acquired heat can be used to generate electricity or to drive an industrial process.The thermal mass can have internal chambers containing a liquid such as molten salt, and can also have structures facilitating heat exchange using a thermal exchange fluid, such as a gas or a glycol-based fluid.In some embodiments, two thermal masses are used as counterweights, reducing the energy consumed in bringing the heat in the thermal masses to the surface. In other embodiments, solid or molten salt can be directly supplied to a well shaft to acquire geothermal heat and returned to the surface in a closed loop system. |
| US09181928B2 |
Drive device for a wind turbine
Drive device for a wind mill comprising a large pulley (21) disposed on a main shaft (22) and at least one belt (27) or chain adapted to transfer rotation from the pulley (21) to a generator (30, 31). The pulley (21) is rotationally coupled to at least two secondary shafts (23, 24), which are disposed parallel to the main shaft (22). One or more belts (27), which transfer the rotation, extend over the pulley (21) and the secondary shafts (23, 24). The secondary shafts (23, 24) are in turn rotationally coupled to at least one, preferably two, electric generators (30, 31). |
| US09181926B2 |
Blade pitch lock system for a wind turbine
A pitch lock system for a wind turbine with a rotor having at least one pitchable or at least partially pitchable blade connected to the rotor at a interface, the blade having an outer blade part and an inner blade part, the blade parts being interconnected at an interface, having a pitch bearing construction with a first bearing ring and a second bearing ring for pitching at least a part of the blade in relation to the rotor. The pitch lock system has a movable toothed segment for interacting with at least one toothed element, and where the pitch lock system further includes an actuator for activating and moving the movable toothed segment into engagement with the toothed element, and thus, locking the pitch bearing construction and thus locking the pitch bearing in the actual position. |
| US09181925B2 |
Method of servicing wind power plant using azimuth angle
The invention concerns a method for the determination of an azimuth angle for servicing purposes (αw) of a wind power plant with a machinery housing that is rotatable on a tower through an azimuth angle (α) and a rotor that is rotatable on a machinery housing through a rotor angle (δ) such that a plurality of combinations of rotor angles (δ) and azimuth angles (α) is adjusted, that are determined at the rotor subject to the influence of a turbulent wind field, which is effecting torques, for the adjusted combinations of rotor angles (δ) and azimuth angles (α) and the associated azimuth angle (α), a torque envelope of the torque-azimuth angle associations is determined, surrounding areas (U(α)) with comparable sector sizes of the azimuth angle (α) are generated and associated magnitude values of the torque envelope are determined, a surrounding area (U(αw)) with magnitude-wise smaller torque envelope values than the neighboring surrounding areas is selected and the azimuth angle for servicing purposes (αw) is determined within the selected surrounding area (U(aw)). |
| US09181921B2 |
Laser ignition apparatus
In a laser ignition apparatus, a focusing optical element is configured to focus a pulsed laser light to a predetermined focal point in a combustion chamber of an engine. An optical window member is arranged on the combustion chamber side of the focusing optical element so as to separate the focusing optical element from the combustion chamber. A catoptric-light focal point, at which a catoptric light is to be focused, is positioned on the anti-combustion chamber side of a combustion chamber-side end surface of the optical window member. The catoptric light results from the reflection of the pulsed laser light by a pseudo mirror that is formed by the optical window member when the combustion chamber-side end surface thereof is fouled with contaminants. Further, the catoptric-light focal point falls in a region where no solid material forming either the focusing optical element or the optical window member exists. |
| US09181919B2 |
Plasma oil-free ignition system in oxygen enriched environment
A plasma oil-free ignition system in oxygen enriched environment comprises a plasma generator and a burner. The plasma oil-free ignition system comprises a sleeve group coaxially arranged with the burner, and the sleeve group comprises multiple coaxially sleeved sleeves. Annular spaces are formed between adjacent sleeves and between the sleeves and the burner. Oxygen ducts are arranged on the sleeves, and oxygen ducts are arranged on the burner. Plasmas jetted by the plasma generators form a local high temperature zone filled with high temperature plasma and pulverized coal air flow. A certain amount of oxygen is fed to the burner through the oxygen duct therein to form local oxygen enriched zones in the annular spaces and the subsequent adjacent spaces through which air flows, thus realizing oxygen enriched combustion of volatile matters or coke or mixture thereof, and combustion the pulverized coal air flow more intensely to release more heat so as to ignite the primary air pulverized coal air flow quickly and burn the pulverized coal air flow stably. The invention has simple structure, is applicable to different coal types, especially applicable to the plasma oil-free ignition system in oxygen enriched environment of coal types with low volatile matters. |
| US09181912B2 |
Control device for in-cylinder injection type internal combustion engine
Provided with a control device for an in-cylinder injection type internal combustion engine that reduces an amount of fuel attaching to and remaining on a piston crown surface and a cylinder bore wall surface so as to suppress an increase in the number of exhaust particles of PM when fuel injection is performed a plurality of times in one burning cycle. In divided multi-stage injection in which the fuel to be injected in one burning cycle is divided into a plurality of times, an injection amount rate of injection at an early timing among injections divided into the plurality of times is set according to a fuel cut continuous time at a timing when the fuel injection is resumed from a fuel cut state. |
| US09181911B2 |
Gas engine system with detection function of abnormality occurrence of gas pressure detection mechanism
A gas engine system has a control unit including: a first determination section for determining, as a first determination, whether the gas pressure is a low pressure less than a predetermined pressure, while the control device recognizes the gas valve is closed; a second determination section for determining, as a second determination, whether the gas pressure is a high pressure equal to or more than the predetermined pressure, while the control device recognizes that the gas valve is open, if the first determination determines the gas pressure is the low pressure; a start-up section for performing the first and second determinations before start of engine operation when receiving a start-up command; and an operation start section for opening the valve and starting the engine, if the first determination determines the gas pressure is the low pressure, and if the second determination determines the pressure is the high pressure. |
| US09181907B2 |
Separator
A separator has a first inlet arranged to receive a fluid stream, and first and second separation stages coupled together in series; A pump coupled to the second separation stage generates an area of reduced pressure to draw the fluid stream through the first and second separation stages. One of the stages includes a variable impactor separator comprising a first chamber arranged to receive the fluid stream, and a second chamber coupled to the first chamber through an aperture to accelerate the first fluid stream. The stream is incident upon an impaction surface to separate contaminants from the fluid stream. An actuator adjusts the open area of the aperture according to a pressure differential between fluid pressure in the first chamber and a reference fluid pressure in a third chamber. The other of the separation stages is a second variable impactor separator or a filter media. |
| US09181906B2 |
Fuel vapor processing systems
A fuel vapor processing system includes a canister, a tank passage communicating between the canister and the fuel tank, and a purge passage communicating between the canister and the intake air passage. Fuel vapor adsorbed by the canister can be desorbed and purged into the intake air passage via the purge passage due to a negative pressure produced in the intake air passage. A desorption promoting device can promote desorption of fuel vapor from the canister. A control unit controls the desorption device, so that the desorption promoting device promotes desorption of fuel vapor from the canister during desorption through the purge passage due to the negative pressure. |
| US09181903B2 |
Method and apparatus for injecting oxygen within an engine
An engine system comprising an accelerator device which is operable to increase the amount of fuel delivered to the engine for combustion; an exhaust gas recirculation system for removing exhaust gas from the engine and recirculating a portion of the exhaust gas to the engine; and an oxygen delivery apparatus adapted to deliver oxygen to the engine in response to operation of the accelerator device. Using this system, performance losses from EGR can be abated by introducing compensatory oxygen. |
| US09181899B2 |
Variable slope exhaust nozzle
A turbine exhaust nozzle includes an inner shell disposed coaxially inside an outer shell to define a flow duct terminating in an outlet at a trailing edge of the outer shell. The inner shell is non-axisymmetric and varies in axial slope angle circumferentially around the duct. |
| US09181894B2 |
Control system for internal combustion engine
A control system for an internal combustion engine having a throttle valve disposed in an intake passage of the engine is provided. A wide-open intake air amount, which is an intake air amount corresponding to a state where the throttle valve is fully opened, is calculated according to the engine rotational speed, and a theoretical intake air amount, which is an intake air amount corresponding to a state where no exhaust gas of the engine is recirculated to a combustion chamber of the engine, is calculated according to the wide-open intake air amount and the intake pressure. An intake air amount of the engine is detected or estimated, and an amount of the evaporative fuel/air mixture supplied through the evaporative fuel passage to the intake passage is calculated. An intake gas amount is calculated by correcting the intake air amount using the evaporative fuel/air mixture amount, and an exhaust gas recirculation ratio is calculated using the theoretical intake air amount and the intake gas amount. The engine is controlled using the calculated exhaust gas recirculation ratio. |
| US09181893B2 |
Electronically controlled fuel injection valve
An electronically controlled fuel injection valve can control the time to inject fuel and the amount of fuel to be injected in response to a control signal independently from the operating condition of an engine unlike a traditional mechanical fuel injection valve. The electronically controlled fuel injection valve employs a control method for fuel injection that increases the force of lifting up a cutoff needle of an injection controller by delivering high-pressure fuel to a lower pressure chamber via a control needle, thereby rapidly controlling fuel injection, has a simple structure making it easy to assemble, replace and precisely machine parts, and has a simple flow path structure which facilitates fabrication. |
| US09181888B2 |
Selectively trapping and storing SO3 in an exhaust gas effluent
Systems, apparatus, and methods for selectively, preferentially, and/or actively removing or trapping SO3 from un-oxidized sulfur constituents in an exhaust gas effluent produced by an internal combustion engine are disclosed. Also disclosed are embodiments for regenerating an SO3 trap. |
| US09181886B2 |
Dual fuel common rail transient pressure control and engine using same
A compression ignition engine is fueled from common rail fuel injectors that predominately inject natural gas fuel that is compression ignited with a small pilot injection of liquid diesel fuel. Before and after a rapid fueling increase transient, the liquid and gaseous rail pressures are controlled toward respective pressures based upon engine speed and load. During the transient, the liquid rail pressure is controlled toward an elevated liquid pressure in order to cause a surge in the supply of gaseous fuel to the gaseous fuel common rail to proactively satisfy the increased gaseous fuel injection rate while obviating a substantial pressure deficit in the gaseous fuel common rail. |
| US09181885B2 |
Method for controlling the locomotion of a motor vehicle
A method for drive control of a motor vehicle in a drive train which comprises a drive engine built as a turbo-charged internal combustion engine, a startup and shifting clutch built as an automated friction clutch, and a transmission built as an automatic stepped transmission. The method overcomes drive engine torque deficiencies while traveling in which such torque deficiencies occur when the driver demands power corresponding to a target torque of the drive engine which is above the spontaneously attainable maximum torque. To avoid downshifting or starting from standstill, initially the clutch is disengaged up to slipping operation, the drive engine is then accelerated to the boost threshold speed or an engine speed which is slightly above the boost threshold speed, and the drive engine is then loaded up to substantially the full load torque with a substantially constant engine speed before the slipping operation of the clutch ends. |
| US09181878B2 |
Operations support systems and methods for calculating and evaluating engine emissions
In accordance with an exemplary embodiment, an operations support system for an engine is provided. A diagnostics unit is configured to receive engine data from the engine and to generate condition indicators based on the engine data using a thermodynamic model, the thermodynamic model being based on component maps associated with the engine. An emissions calculation unit is coupled to the diagnostic unit and configured to calculate emissions information for the engine based on the condition indicators. A graphical user interface is coupled to the emissions calculation unit and configured to display the emissions information. |
| US09181873B2 |
Gas turbine with flow separation and recirculation
A method is provided for CO2 separation from a combined-cycle power plant with exhaust-gas recirculation and CO2 separation. The hot-gas flow is split into a recirculation flow and an exhaust-gas flow before the final turbine stage in the turbine. A first partial flow remains in the turbine and carries out expansion work in the conventional form, before its waste heat is dissipated, for example in a waste-heat boiler, and the gases are recirculated into the inlet flow of the gas turbine. A second partial flow is diverted before the final turbine stage, and emits its waste heat in an HRSG/heat exchanger, before CO2 is separated from the exhaust-gas flow at an increased pressure level. |
| US09181863B2 |
Internal combustion engine with port communication
An internal combustion engine with rotatable bodies each received in a respective internal cavity. The engine includes at least one inlet port for each internal cavity in fluid communication with the combustion chamber(s) thereof at least during their intake phase and a beginning of their compression phase. The bodies are angularly offset with the beginning of the compression phase of the combustion chamber(s) defined by each body being simultaneous with at least a beginning of the intake phase of the combustion chamber(s) defined by a different one of the bodies. A respective conduit provides a fluid communication between an inlet port for each body and an inlet port for the different one of the bodies, with each conduit being in fluid communication with a plenum for receiving pressurized air. A method of feeding air to an internal combustion engine is also provided. |
| US09181858B2 |
Turbocharged engine with a sensor device in the turbocharger housing
A turbocharger for use in an internal combustion engine has at least one turbocharger housing, at least one compressor situated inside the turbocharger housing, and at least one turbine situated inside the turbocharger housing. In addition, the turbocharger has at least one sensor device for detecting at least a portion of a gas component of an exhaust gas of the internal combustion engine. The sensor device is at least partially integrated into the turbocharger housing. |
| US09181849B2 |
Cooling device for engine
Disclosed is an oil jet device for cooling a piston, including: an oil cooler 4 that is disposed upstream of an oil injection nozzle 8; an oil pump 5 that is disposed upstream of the oil cooler 4; a first switching adjustment valve 6 that is disposed between the oil injection nozzle 8 and the oil cooler 4 and adjusts a flow dividing ratio at which the cooling oil from the oil cooler 4 is distributed to the oil injection nozzle 8 side and to an oil pan side; and a control unit that has an oil quantity adjustment map 4 for switching the first switching adjustment valve 6 based on a piston temperature calculation map 20 for calculating the temperature of the piston 1 using detection values acquired respectively by a cooling water temperature sensor 35, a rotation speed sensor 36 and a load sensor 37. |
| US09181848B2 |
Turbocharger exhaust manifold system
An engine subassembly and method of assembling an engine subassembly. The engine subassembly includes an exhaust manifold including an exit conduit. The exit conduit includes a first flange disposed about a peripheral portion of the exit conduit. The engine subassembly also includes a turbo charger including an entry conduit. The entry conduit further includes a second flange disposed about a peripheral portion of the entry conduit. The turbocharger engaged with the exhaust manifold such that the first flange is engaged with the second flange. The engine subassembly also includes an extension protruding axially from one of the entry conduit and the exit conduit. The extension includes at least one protrusion extending at least in part in a radial direction from the extension. The protrusion is configured for engagement with a channel formed in a wall of the other one of the entry conduit and the exit conduit. |
| US09181847B2 |
Coating material for parts of engine exhaust system and method for manufacturing the same
Disclosed is a coating material for parts of an engine exhaust system and a method for manufacturing the same. The coating material includes a second junction layer made of CrN or Ti(C)N, a support layer made of TiAlN/CrN disposed on a surface of the second junction layer, and a functional layer made of TiAlN/CrSiN or TiAlN/CrSiCN disposed on a surface of the support layer. The coating material improves abrasion resistance and seizure resistance of the parts of the engine exhaust system. |
| US09181846B2 |
Flexible tube for exhaust pipe of automobiles
A flexible tube for an exhaust pipe of an automobile includes a bellows member having corrugations thereon; an interlocking member positioned in the bellows member with a predetermined gap from the bellows member and having a spiral groove formed thereon to absorb deformation; a braid member positioned to surround the outside portion of the bellows member and braided to be flexibly deformed with a large displacement with respect to a displacement and tension in a compression direction; cap members coupled for fixing the braid member on the outside of the both ends of the bellows member; and intermediate members formed in the shape of a ring and having one end fixed to the bellows member and the other end fixed to the interlocking member by overlapping the interlocking member inwards, wherein the bellows member has protrusion portions, a center part and both end parts. |
| US09181845B2 |
Method for calculating the NO2 content at the inlet of a selective reduction catalyst and device for the implementation of this method
A method for the calculation of the NO2 content at the inlet of a selective catalytic reduction—SCR—device (22) of an exhaust system (4) with: an exhaust pipe (10); a tank for a reducing agent and injection elements (18); a first sensor (20) for measuring the concentration of nitrogen oxides upstream of the SCR; and a second sensor (24) for measuring the concentration of nitrogen oxides downstream of the SCR, includes the following stages: halting the injection of reducing agent; measuring the concentration of nitrogen oxides upstream and downstream of the SCR during a period of time; calculating the amount of NO2 accumulated in the SCR during the period of time; and determining the NO2 content upstream of the SCR from the calculated amount of NO2 accumulated per unit of time. |
| US09181842B2 |
Temperature sensor, sulfur component detector, and exhaust purification system for internal combustion engine
A temperature sensor includes temperature detecting means and at least one of a catalyst and an adsorbent applied to the surface of the temperature detecting means. At least one of the catalyst and the adsorbent catalyzes an exothermic reaction of a reactant in gas on the temperature detecting means. A temperature that is increased by the exothermic reaction is detected by the temperature detecting means. The catalytic efficiency for the exothermic reaction of at least one of the catalyst and the adsorbent is reduced by sulfur poisoning. The temperature sensor is disposed upstream of an exhaust purification system. Accordingly, it is determined that the temperature sensor is subjected to sulfur poisoning if the temperature detected by the temperature sensor is below a prescribed temperature. |
| US09181840B2 |
Method to operate a diesel particulate filter
A method is provided to operate a diesel particulate filter of a Diesel engine equipped with a soot-sensor located in an outlet of the diesel particulate filter, the soot-sensor operating according to a succession of soot loading phases mutually separated by a regeneration phase. The method includes, but is not limited to setting a borderline value of the efficiency of the diesel particulate filter, resetting a value of a counter, during a regeneration phase of the soot-sensor, this value representing a soot loading level of the soot-sensor, iteratively increasing the value of this counter, during a next soot loading phase of the soot-sensor, at least until the value reaches a predetermined threshold value of the counter, and detecting an unsuited efficiency of the diesel particulate filter, if a next regeneration phase of the soot-sensor begins when the value of the counter is below the predetermined threshold value of the counter. |
| US09181835B2 |
Supervisory model predictive selective catalytic reduction control method
A method of controlling an aftertreatment system having a SCR catalyst and communicating with an engine electronic control module (ECM) is provided. The method may receive a plurality of system values corresponding to NH3 and NOx emissions of the aftertreatment system; determine an optimal urea dosing target value based on the system values and one of a target NH3 storage value and an estimated NH3 storage value; and determine an optimal engine NOx output target value based on the system values and a measured NOx conversion efficiency value. |
| US09181833B2 |
Electrically heated catalyst
Electricity is suppressed from flowing to a case of an electrically heated catalyst. In the electrically heated catalyst which is provided with a heat generation element adapted to be electrically energized to generate heat, the case in which the heat generation element is received, an inner pipe arranged between the heat generation element and the case for insulating electricity, an inner mat arranged between the heat generation element and the inner pipe, and an outer mat arranged between the inner pipe and the case, the inner pipe includes a tubular portion that is arranged in the surrounding of the heat generation element and is formed in parallel to a central axis of the heat generation element, and a downstream side inclination portion that is arranged at the downstream side of the tubular portion, with an inside diameter thereof becoming smaller in a direction toward a downstream side. A downstream side bent portion, being a boundary between the tubular portion and the downstream side inclination portion, is formed in the vicinity of a downstream side end portion of the outer mat. |
| US09181832B2 |
Exhaust aftertreatment system where an activator material is added to the reductant fed to the catalytic converter
An exhaust gas after treatment system includes a catalytic converter arrangement with at least one catalytic material, wherein the catalytic converter arrangement is arranged in an exhaust gas path downstream of a combustion engine, and further includes one or more dosing interfaces for feeding at least one reducing agent for reducing an NOx content in the exhaust gas. The one or more dosing interfaces are arranged to feed at least one activator material to the exhaust gas. The activator material causes an enhancement of a catalytic activity of the catalytic material compared to the catalytic activity of the catalytic material without the presence of the activator material at least in a given temperature range. |
| US09181831B2 |
Selective catalytic reduction system
A selective catalytic reduction (SCR) system that can suppress thermal damage in operation of a dosing valve resulting from crystallization of urea solution and corrosion of the dosing valve to perform proper urea solution injection control, and includes an SCR device provided in an exhaust pipe of an engine; a dosing valve that injects urea solution at an upstream side of the SCR device; a minimum injection quantity setting unit that if temperature of the dosing valve is equal to or higher than a predetermined temperature, sets a minimum injection quantity according to the temperature of the dosing valve; and an urea solution injection control unit that if injected quantity of urea solution according to quantity of NOx emitted from the engine is smaller than the minimum injection quantity, controls the injected quantity of urea solution to be the minimum injection quantity. |
| US09181829B2 |
Exhaust gas purification device of internal combustion engine
An exhaust gas purification device includes an exhaust gas after-treatment device provided in an exhaust passage of an internal combustion engine, and has an oxidation catalyst and a DPF or diesel particulate filter. The exhaust gas purification device also includes an exhaust pipe injector which feeds a fuel to the oxidation catalyst, and a control unit which controls regeneration of the filter by supplying the oxidation catalyst with the fuel from the exhaust pipe injector. The control unit determines whether the filter is in a regeneration-possible state, i.e., whether the oxidation catalyst is maintained at a high temperature allowing regeneration of the filter. If the control unit determines during regeneration control of the filter that the filter is not in the regeneration-possible state, then the control unit halts the regeneration control until the regeneration-possible state is reached. |
| US09181820B2 |
Valve mechanism for internal combustion engine and control device for valve mechanism
A valve mechanism for an internal combustion engine is provided with a cam that rotates in conjunction with rotation of a crankshaft, an engine valve that is lifted and opened along with rotation of the cam, a variable lift amount mechanism that is arranged between the cam and the engine valve and varies the maximum amount of lift of the engine valve, and a lost motion mechanism that is arranged between the cam and the engine valve and absorbs the amount of lift of the engine valve by contracting when drive force is received from the cam to maintain a closed state of the engine valve. The maximum amount of contraction of the lost motion mechanism is set to such a value that the lost motion mechanism absorbs the minimum value of the maximum lift amount of the engine valve. |
| US09181819B2 |
Component wall having diffusion sections for cooling in a turbine engine
A film cooling structure formed in a component wall of a turbine engine and a method of making the film cooling structure. The film cooling structure includes a plurality of individual diffusion sections formed in the wall, each diffusions section including a single cooling passage for directing cooling air toward a protuberance of a wall defining the diffusion section. The film cooling structure may be formed with a masking template including apertures defining shapes of a plurality of to-be-formed diffusion sections in the wall. A masking material can be applied to the wall into the apertures in the masking template so as to block outlets of cooling passages exposed through the apertures. The masking template can be removed and a material may be applied on the outer surface of the wall such that the material defines the diffusion sections once the masking material is removed. |
| US09181818B2 |
Thermally constrained high temperature optical fiber holder
A disclosed probe assembly includes a sensor member and an outer holder including a main bore for the sensor member, the outer holder including a first coefficient of thermal expansion. The sensor member is held within a sensor bore of an inner holder. The inner holder is held within the main bore of the outer holder by an interference fit. The inner holder includes a second coefficient of thermal expansion greater than the first coefficient of thermal expansion. Expansion of the inner holder is constrained by the outer holder to maintain the sensor member within the probe bore of the inner holder at elevated temperatures. |
| US09181815B2 |
Shaped rim cavity wing surface
A shaped rim cavity wing includes an upper surface and a lower surface. The lower surface has a geometric shape to control the separation of airflow as it passes around the lower surface to the top surface. A point of maximum extent defines the boundary between the upper surface and the lower surface, wherein the point of maximum extent defines a corner that that separates airflow from the shaped rim cavity rim and creates a flow re-circulation adjacent to the top surface of the shaped rim cavity wing. |
| US09181811B2 |
Device for varying lade pitch of a lift rotor
The present invention relates to a device (10) for varying blade pitch of a rotary wing aircraft (50) having a main rotor (11) with a plurality of blades (12), each blade (12) including at least one main flap (13) fastened to the trailing edge of the blade (12). The angle of inclination of each flap (13) is controlled via a swashplate (20). The device (10) makes provision for electric actuators controlled by a flight control system (54) to be mounted in a stationary frame of reference for the purpose of moving and varying the angle of inclination of the non-rotary plate of the swashplate (20). The electric actuators provide primary flight control and also multi-cyclic control for the purpose of attenuating noise and vibration as generated in particular by the blades (12) and the rotor (11). |
| US09181808B2 |
Blade or vane for a turbomachine
A blade or a vane component of a turbomachine includes an inner space between two opposite inner walls of the component, and a plurality of ribs projecting from the two opposite inner wall forming a plurality of channels on each of the two opposite inner walls to guide the cooling fluid towards the trailing edge. The inner space is divided into a leading section towards the leading edge of the component and a trailing section towards the trailing edge of the component. The ribs are arranged in the leading section. A plurality of pin-fins projecting from the two opposite inner walls is arranged in the trailing section in a discrete manner. |
| US09181801B2 |
Pumpable crib
A pumpable crib bag assembly includes a containment bag having a body and a supporting member. The containment bag is configured to contain a cementitious material therein and has a first end, a second end, and an outer surface. The pumpable crib bag assembly further includes a reinforcing layer positioned adjacent to the outer surface of the containment bag. |
| US09181785B2 |
Automatic bypass for ESP pump suction deployed in a PBR in tubing
A subterranean pump is delivered on coiled tubing with power and control cables running inside. The pump suction has a tubular inlet that seals in a polished bore in the surrounding tubular. A diverter opens a lateral port and closes entry to the pump suction when the pump is not running and the formation pressure is high enough to bring production to the surface. This configuration prevents the pump from turning while the formation pressure allows production to the surface. If the pump is started it reduces pressure ahead of a movable plug to draw it toward the pump against a spring bias. The lateral ports close and an inline flow path opens to allow the pump to draw through the diverter and discharge into the annular space around the coiled tubing on the way to the surface. |
| US09181784B2 |
Method and apparatus for logging a well below a submersible pump deployed on coiled tubing
An apparatus for characterizing well effluents comprises coiled tubing, an artificial lift mechanism attached to the coiled tubing and a logging tool fitted with sensors capable of characterizing well effluents associated with operation of the artificial lift mechanism. Also a method for characterizing well effluents that includes lowering a logging tool fitted with a multitude of sensors capable of characterizing well effluents with a cable and lowering an artificial lift mechanism on coiled tubing capable of flowing well effluent past the logging tool. Further a method for treating a well including characterizing well effluents by lowering a logging tool fitted with a multitude of sensors capable of characterizing well effluents on a cable and lowering an artificial lift mechanism on coiled tubing capable of flowing well effluent past the logging tool; and injecting a treatment into a desired formation selected using information obtained while characterizing the well effluents. |
| US09181782B2 |
Apparatus and method for isolating a section of a pipe riser bore in the course of riser renewal
The isolation tool works at depth in the bore of a pipe whose upper end is to be severed and replaced. The tool isolates the lower pipe bore from the upper bore so that flammable downhole fluid is prevented from reaching a welding site along the pipe wall. The tool incorporates: means for establishing a pair of axially spaced apart annular seals engaging the pipe inner surface; means for venting downhole fluid to ground surface; and means for monitoring for seal leakage. The tool is primarily mechanical in nature. It finds use in connection with off-shore platform riser renewal operations. |
| US09181781B2 |
Method of making and using a reconfigurable downhole article
A method of making a reconfigurable article is disclosed. The method includes providing a powder comprising a plurality of base material particles. The method also includes providing a powder comprising a plurality of removable material particles; and forming a base article from the base material comprising a plurality of removable material particles. A method of using a reconfigurable article is also disclosed. The method includes forming a base article, the base article comprising a base material and a removable material, wherein the base article comprises a downhole tool or component. The method also includes inserting the base article into a wellbore. The method further includes performing a first operation utilizing the base article; exposing the removable material of the base article to a wellbore condition that is configured to remove the removable material and form a modified article; and performing a second operation using the article. |
| US09181776B2 |
Pressure controlled well construction and operation systems and methods usable for hydrocarbon operations, storage and solution mining
Apparatus and methods for fluidly communicating between conduit strings and wells through crossovers forming a subterranean manifold string, usable for pressure contained underground hydrocarbon operations, storage and solution mining. Concentric conduits enable fluid communication with one or more subterranean regions through an innermost passageway usable for communicating fluids and devices engagable with a receptacle of the manifold. A wall of the manifold string and/or a selectively placed fluid control device diverts fluid mixture flow streams from one passageway to another radially disposed inward or outward passageway to selectively control pressurized fluid communication, thereby forming a plurality of pressure bathers. The pressure bathers can be used to selectively communicate fluid mixtures to and from a reservoir for hydrocarbon operations, solution mining, and/or control of a storage cushion space during such operations. |
| US09181775B2 |
Sealing method and apparatus
An apparatus and method for forming a plug in a passageway, comprises a carrier which in use is lowered into the passageway, the carrier comprising an elongate body of material resistant to creep which supports first and second spaced apart portions and a body of material supported on the carrier, the material having a melting point which is higher than the temperature within the passageway and which expands as it solidifies. The carrier may comprise a skirt that extends axially from a lower end of the carrier, the skirt being dimensioned to define a clearance between the skirt and the passageway; and a heater for melting the body of material such that melted material fills a space defined between the first and second portions, and flows into the clearance defined between the skirt and the passageway. The heater may be a removable heater. |
| US09181772B2 |
Decomposable impediments for downhole plugs
A configurable insert for a downhole tool. The configurable insert can include a body having a bore that is blocked by an impediment such that fluid flow is prevented through the body in both axial directions. The impediment can include a decomposable material. The configurable insert can also include at least one shear element disposed on the body for connecting to a setting tool. The shear element can be adapted to shear when exposed to a predetermined force, thereby releasing the setting tool from the body. The configurable insert can also include one or more threads disposed on an outer surface of the body below the at least one shear element for connecting the body to the downhole tool. |
| US09181769B2 |
Subsea well safing system
A subsea well safing method and apparatus to secure a subsea well in the event of a perceived blowout in a manner to mitigate the environmental damage and the physical damage to the subsea wellhead equipment to promote the ability to reconnect and recover control of the well. The safing assembly is connectable to a subsea well and a marine riser. Pursuant to a safing sequence, the well tubular is secured in the upper and lower safing assemblies and the tubular is then sheared between the locations at which it has been secured. Subsequently, an ejection device may be actuated to physically separate the upper safing assembly and the connected marine riser from the lower safing assembly the subsea well. |
| US09181758B2 |
Diamond core drill wire line latch assembly
A latch assembly for a diamond core drill wire line. Included is a cylindrical main body having a main body interior, an outer wall, a main body end and a latch end. A ball hole is defined through the main body. An inner shaft ball lock is contained within the main body. A spring is disposed on the inner shaft ball lock. A main body top is attached to the main body end to contain the inner shaft ball lock within the main body and limit upstream movement of the inner shaft ball lock. A steel ball is then captured between the inner shaft ball lock and the outer wall of the main body such that upon axial movement of the inner shaft ball lock the ball penetrates up through the outer wall to extend past the main body to thereby latch onto an outer tube assembly. |
| US09181757B2 |
Sucker rod apparatus and method
The present disclosure relates to a fiberglass rod with connectors on each end. Each connector has a rod-receiving receptacle having an open end, a closed end, and axially spaced annular wedge shaped surfaces such that the compressive forces between the rod and the respective connector are defined by the shape of the wedged surfaces. |
| US09181756B2 |
Drill bit with a force application using a motor and screw mechanism for controlling extension of a pad in the drill bit
A drill bit and method of drilling a wellbore. The drill bit includes a pad configured to extend and retract from a surface of the drill bit, and a force application device configured to extend and retract the pad. The force application device includes a screw driven by an electric motor that linearly moves a drive unit to extend and retract the pad from the drill bit surface. The drill bit may be conveyed by a drill string and the pad may be extended from the drill bit face to drill the wellbore. |
| US09181754B2 |
Pulsed-electric drilling systems and methods with formation evaluation and/or bit position tracking
Pulsed-electric drilling systems can be augmented with multi-component electromagnetic field sensors on the drillstring, at the earth's surface, or in existing boreholes in the vicinity of the planned drilling path. The sensors detect electrical fields and/or magnetic fields caused by the electrical pulses and derive therefrom information of interest including, e.g., spark size and orientation, bit position, at-bit resistivity and permittivity, and tomographically mapped formation structures. The at-bit resistivity measurements can be for anisotropic or isotropic formations, and in the former case, can include vertical and horizontal resistivities and an orientation of the anisotropy axis. The sensors can illustratively include toroids, electrode arrays, tilted coil antennas, magnetic dipole antennas aligned with the tool axes, and magnetometers. The use of multiple such sensors increases measurement accuracy and the number of unknown model parameters which can be derived using an iterative inversion technique. |
| US09181753B2 |
Offshore well drilling system with nested drilling risers
An offshore well drilling system for drilling a subsea well, including a floating platform, an external riser extending from the subsea well, and an internal riser extending from the subsea well to the platform. The internal riser is nested within the external riser. The system also includes an external riser tension device to apply tension to the external riser. The system also includes an internal riser tension device, separate from the external riser tension device, to apply tension to the internal riser. |
| US09181751B1 |
Control assembly for folding/unfolding and adjusting an inclination angle of slats of a universal venetian blind
A control assembly includes a control box mounted to a rail on a top of a Venetian blind. A longitudinal shaft is mounted in a box body of the control box and is rotatable along a longitudinal axis. An actuation string is wound around a friction wheel on the longitudinal shaft and can be operated to adjust an inclination angle of slats of the Venetian blind. A transverse shaft is mounted in the box body and extends perpendicularly to the longitudinal shaft. A direction-changing gear unit is mounted between the longitudinal shaft and the transverse shaft. The transverse shaft includes two string winding grooves each having increasing depths from two sides thereof towards a center thereof. The box body includes a bottom having a central string hole between two side string holes. The central string hole is divided by a transverse support and a longitudinal support. |
| US09181749B1 |
Deformable hinge gap blocker for the protection of hands and fingers
This invention relates to a hinge stile gap blocking apparatus designed to prevent hand and finger injuries resulting from inadvertent door closures. The apparatus includes a hinge gap blocker for use with an existing door and door surround configured to continuously occlude a gap between the door jamb and the outer facing edge of a door hinge stile. The hinge stile gap blocking apparatus has a vaulted portion that is shaped to cover the exposed hinge barrels of a door. When installed, the hinge gap blocker covers exposed hinge barrels and continuously occludes the outside hinge gap between the door and door jamb when the door is pivoted. |
| US09181741B2 |
Hinges provided with elastic means and dampener
A hinge for a closing door of a compartment, of the type having a first and a second body, respectively integral to the door and to the frame of the corresponding compartment, or vice versa, and mutually hinged by at least one pin, first elastic means mounted on the second body and acting upon the first body, and at least one dampening device fixed to the second body, acting upon the first body and actuated by at least a first slider, functionally connected to the dampener, and by at least a second slider, configured for engaging, directly or indirectly, the aforesaid first body in correspondence of at least a certain angular range assumed by the first body with respect to the second body during their relative rotation, whereby the second slider is actuated in translation by the first body when engaged therewith, as well as constraining means between the first slider and the second slider. Advantagiously, the aforesaid constraining means include at least a lever pivoted to the second body, and the aforesaid first and second slider are constrained at least in rotation to one lever. |
| US09181737B1 |
Oven door opening magnetic hinge
A hinge for rotatably coupling an appliance door with an appliance body includes a housing affixable within the door. An input arm is rotatably coupled to the housing and is affixable with the appliance body. A spring is operably engaged between the housing and the input arm to apply a balancing torque to the input arm relative to the housing. A first magnet is fixed relative to the housing and a second magnet is operatively coupled with the input arm such that rotation of the input arm with respect to the housing moves the second magnet axially with respect to the first magnet. The magnets have a mutual attraction between each other that is operable to apply a closing torque to the input arm relative to the housing. The balancing force decreases with movement of the input arm from the second position toward the first position. |
| US09181734B2 |
Vehicle door handle device
In a vehicle door handle device, an operating member is pivotally supported to a handle base. A door lock device is operated via an operating force transmitting part by a rotation of the operating member from an initial position to an operating position. A connection-retaining member attached to the operating member retains a connection of one end of the operating force transmitting part to the operating member and abuts against a stopper wall surface of the handle base so as to define an operating stroke end position of the operating member. A second stopper is provided on the operating member and abuts against the handle base in an over-stroke position beyond the operating stroke end position. |
| US09181733B2 |
Vehicle door handle system
In a vehicle door handle system, a handle is pivotally supported by a base member, at least one portion of the base member being attached to an outer panel; and a lever member is pivotally supported by a spindle fixed to the base member and having an axis at a right angle to a plane extending along the outer panel, the lever member being interlocked and connected with a handle arm configured to pivot with the handle and the lever member being linked to a latch device. An attachment part which attaches the base member to the outer panel is disposed coaxially with the spindle. Accordingly, it is possible to attach the base member to the outer panel while avoiding the bulkiness of conventional systems. |
| US09181730B1 |
Driving structure of electronic lock
An improved driving structure of an electronic lock includes an outdoor assembly, a lock core, an indoor assembly, and a latch bolt. The outdoor assembly is mounted to an outside surface of a door panel. The indoor assembly is mounted to an inside surface of the door panel. The lock core is arranged between the outdoor assembly and the indoor assembly and coupled thereto. The lock core is operatively coupled to the latch bolt. As such, an improved structure of an electronic lock is constructed. When a user enters a correct combination of codes, the electrical valve of the lock core stretches the projection block outward to engage the second stopper so as to allow the exterior handle and the lock core to be operated synchronously for unlocking. Without the combination of codes, a key may be used to unlock the door. |
| US09181728B2 |
Pick-resistant lock cylinder using torque resistance
A torque augmentor operatively associated with the cylinder assembly and the plug assembly of a pin tumbler lock cylinder increases the threshold torque required to rotate the plug assembly in the cylinder assembly, thereby hampering an attacker's “feel” for the relationship of the cylinder pins to the shear line, and of the plug assembly to the cylinder. One embodiment of the pick-resistant lock cylinder includes a spring-biased ball normally disposed across the shear line. Another embodiment has a cam normally biased into engagement with a cam follower, the cam being disposed on one of the cylinder assembly and the plug assembly, and the cam follower being disposed on the other. Another embodiment includes an hourglass-shaped false shear line creator operatively associated with the cylinder assembly and plug assembly. The coaction of the torque augmentor and false shear line creator of the lock cylinder of the present invention also hampers an attack by bumping. |
| US09181721B2 |
Cover assembly for a spa
A spa according to the present invention includes a shell and a support structure including a base member, a plurality of side members and a plurality of end members to support the shell without the need for a sub-frame. The spa also includes a cover and a plurality of lifting members for supporting the cover. The lifting members are actuatable between a lowered position in which the cover is positioned generally atop the shell and an elevated position in which the cover is spaced from the shell and the support structure. The lifting members are secured to at least one of the side members and the end members. |
| US09181720B2 |
Anti-evisceration ring
Missing and broken drain covers for swimming pools, spas and/or other applications expose swimmers to dangers including entrapment and evisceration. An anti-evisceration ring of this invention is attached to an opening of a sump or frame and provides a non-planar edge that prevents the formation of a vacuum by a body part and thereby preventing injuries to swimmers. |
| US09181718B2 |
System and method for installation of molding
A system for installing pre-painted moldings. The system includes pre-painted moldings each configured to be fastened to a wall by fasteners. The system also includes a caulk material, filler material, concealer material, and touchup paint each color matched to the paint color applied to the moldings. The caulk material is configured to fill a gap defined between each of the moldings and the wall to which the molding is fastened. The filler material is configured to fill a gap defined between any abutting portions of the moldings. The concealer material is configured to conceal any surface disturbances caused by the installation of the fasteners. The touchup paint is configured to adhere to the paint pre-painted on the moldings. The system may also include a marker configured to apply a coating color matched to the paint applied to the moldings, a scraping tool, and/or a buffing tool. |
| US09181714B2 |
Multi-textured or patterned exposed surface of a landscaping block, wall block, patio block and block system
A landscaping block, patio block, wall block and/or retaining wall block having a multi-textured or patterned exposed surface that can be used in landscaping, retaining wall, and/or patio block systems utilizing a plurality of blocks with a multi-textured or patterned exposed surface. The blocks having the multi-textured or patterned exposed surface can be used in landscaping, retaining wall, and/or patio block systems having a first block type and a second block type. The multi-textured or patterned exposed surface blocks can be used in the construction of walls, fences, and patios to create a geometric design or pattern or a repeating geometric design or pattern in a visually exposed surface of the wall, fence and/or patio constructed. |
| US09181710B2 |
Insulated fiber cement siding
Disclosed herein are embodiments of foam backing panels for use with lap siding and configured for mounting on a building. Also disclosed are lap siding assemblies and products of lap sidings. One such embodiment of the foam backing panel comprises a rear face configured to contact the building, a front face configured for attachment to the lap siding, alignment means for aligning the lap siding relative to the building, means for providing a shadow line, opposing vertical side edges, a top face extending between a top edge of the front face and rear face and a bottom face extending between a bottom edge of the front face and rear face. |
| US09181709B2 |
Rapidly mounted, modular, universal grab bar and handrail system
A rapidly mounted, modular, universal handrail and grab bar system is disclosed having a plurality of wall mounted supports; a plurality of fasteners securing the wall supports, wherein each support is initially rotationally adjustable about the fastener; at least one stock rail member forms the handrail member, wherein each rail member is received within wall support rail recesses, and wherein the central fastener extends perpendicular to the axis of the rail member; and at least one lateral fastening member to secure the rail member to the support. The rail members can form a pair of back to back mounted grab bars on opposed sides of a partition, wherein a plurality of the wall mounted supports are on each side of the partition. |
| US09181706B1 |
Pivotable roof gutter assembly
A pivotable gutter assembly for mounting below the bottom edge of a roof that uses a conventional gutter mounted for pivoting about a pivot axis from a normal upright position for receiving runoff from the roof to a downwardly inclined discharge position for discharge of leaves and other debris. The pivot axis is at or above the level of the rear wall of the gutter so that the rear wall can pivot rearwardly downwardly without being obstructed by the adjacent fascia of the building. The pivot axis is also located to the rear of the gutter from the center of front-to-rear weight distribution so that the gutter is urged against an attaching bracket to maintain the gutter in the normal upright position. The gutter is pivoted from the normal to the discharge position by a rod manipulated by an operator standing on the ground below the gutter. |
| US09181702B2 |
Modular roof panel with integrated drainage system
A roof panel includes a planar body having top and bottom edges, with a downturn edge extending therebetween, and an opposing channel edge. The downturn edge overlays a channel edge of an adjacent panel. The bottom edge overlays a top edge of another adjacent panel. A plurality of courses extends between the channel and downturn edges. Each course includes a nesting ridge to receive the downturn edge of an adjacent panel and to position a top surface of the panel flush with adjacent panels. Surface channels and contoured ridges are defined within each course. A drain aperture of the drip edge aligns with an adjacent channel edge to direct material through the drain aperture and onto adjacent panels. A gable member engages an edge when the panel has one or fewer laterally adjacent panels, wherein the gable member is flush with the adjacent planar body. |
| US09181701B2 |
Method for the production of a longitudinal connection for wooden components and corresponding wooden component
A longitudinal connection is formed for wooden components and a corresponding wooden component. A fitting piece is glued in a recess to the outer or bottom sides of the at least two glued laminated girders to be connected in such a way that a scarf joint is created at least in a partial length of the fitting piece between the fitting piece and the respective glued laminated girder originating from the tapered and transition regions of the fitting piece in the direction of the end of the associated glued laminated girder. |
| US09181699B2 |
Precast concrete structures, precast tilt-up concrete structures and methods of making same
The invention comprises a method of forming a concrete structure. The method comprises placing plastic concrete in a form of a desired shape, encasing the concrete in insulating material having insulating properties equivalent to at least 1 inch of expanded polystyrene and allowing the plastic concrete to at least partially cure inside the insulating material. An insulated concrete form and a method of using the insulated concrete form are also disclosed. |
| US09181698B2 |
Method of producing a building panel and a building panel
A method of producing a building panel (1), including: providing a core (2), applying a balancing layer (6) having a first moisture content on a first surface (3) of the core (2), the balancing layer (6) comprising a sheet impregnated with a thermosetting binder, applying a surface layer (12) having a second moisture content on a second surface (4) of the core (2), the surface layer (12) comprising a thermosetting binder, adjusting the first moisture content of the balancing layer (6) such that the first moisture content of the balancing layer (6) is higher than the second moisture content of the surface layer (12) prior to curing, and curing the surface layer (12) and the balancing layer (6) by applying heat and pressure. Also, a semi-finished product adapted to be cured for forming a building panel (1). |
| US09181688B2 |
Toilet valve float mechanism
A toilet valve float adjustment assembly, including: a dual flush valve; a pair of floats disposed within the dual flush valve, wherein the vertical position of one of the floats determines the flush volume for a full flush and the vertical position of the other float determines the flush volume for a partial flush; a pair of adjustment mechanisms, wherein each adjustment mechanism adjusts the vertical height of one of the floats; and a pair of locking mechanisms, wherein each locking mechanism inhibits movement of one of the adjustment mechanisms, thereby keeping its float at a preferred vertical height when locked, and wherein the adjustment and locking mechanisms are controlled at the top of the dual flush valve. |
| US09181684B2 |
Pump control unit for hydraulic system
During a swing start, a pump torque calculating section associated with pump delivery pressure, a pump torque calculating section associated with swing operation pressure, and a maximum value selecting section of a controller perform control to change a maximum absorption torque of a second hydraulic pump between Tb and Tc in accordance with a delivery pressure of the second hydraulic pump. In an operation combining swing with other motion, a subtraction section performs a calculation to subtract a maximum absorption torque Tp2 of the second hydraulic pump from a total pump torque Tr0 to thereby distribute an amount of torque reduced in the second hydraulic pump to a first hydraulic pump associated with an actuator other than a swing motor. Further, a required flow rate can be supplied to the swing motor, thus achieving a smooth shift to a constant speed swing. |
| US09181681B2 |
Working vehicle
The working vehicle may include a working apparatus in which an attachment is attachably mounted, a flow rate limitation setting means to set the maximum flow rate of hydraulic oil, an engine revolution sensor, a cam plate angle sensor, a valve opening degree sensor to measure a present flow rate of the hydraulic oil, a switching valve to switch between a single acting type and a double acting type, a display, a main controller to connect the flow rate limitation setting means, the engine revolution sensor, the cam plate angle sensor, the valve opening degree sensor, the switching valve, and the display apparatus. The maximum flow rate and the present flow rate, which are set by the flow rate limitation setting means, may be simultaneously displayed on the display apparatus. |
| US09181676B2 |
Machine foot control operational pattern and method thereof
The present disclosure provides a foot control pattern for operably controlling an electrohydraulic machine. The machine includes a cab, ground engaging mechanisms, a boom, and a bucket. The foot control pattern includes a machine controller having a plurality of inputs. A first foot control is electrically coupled to a first of the plurality of inputs, where the first foot control is adapted to control the boom. A second foot control is electrically coupled to a second of the plurality of inputs, where the second foot control is adapted to control the bucket. A first hand control is electrically coupled to a third of the plurality of inputs, where the first hand control is adapted to propel and steer the machine. |
| US09181674B2 |
Seismic restraint helical pile systems and method and apparatus for forming same
A reinforced helical pile system suitable for use in seismically active areas incorporates steel fibers in the grout and a fiber reinforced polymer sleeve (casing). A low-friction driving assembly and low-friction sleeve couplings enable the sleeve to be drawn into the soil substantially without rotation, reducing power consumption and preserving the integrity of the casing. |
| US09181672B2 |
Method of soil compaction and densification
A method of compacting soil performing the steps of establishing a grid pattern of individual partitions at a jobsite, performing a first tamping session to tamper each partition using a 10′×10′ vibro tamper plate for about 90 seconds followed by at least 4 days of settling. Performing a second tamping session to tamper each partition using the 10′×10′ vibro tamper plate timed for about 120 seconds followed by at least 4 days of settling. Performing a third tamping session to tamper each partition using a 7′×7′ vibro tamper plate for about 90 seconds followed by about 6 days of settling. |
| US09181669B2 |
Bladder-containing wall assemblies for containment berms
A bladder-containing wall assembly for use in containment berms is disclosed. A bladder contained in the wall assembly communicates with the interior area of the containment berm via one or more inlet ports. The bladder self-deploys from the wall upon a substantial spill or leak inside the containment berm in order to increase the fluid containment volume of the containment device. The bladder-containing wall assembly may be substituted for a wall section of either permanent or portable containment berms. |
| US09181665B2 |
Barrier system and connector
A barrier system includes a plurality of elongated barriers each having longitudinally spaced ends, each configured with a connector having a pair of laterally spaced openings. The barriers are arranged in an end-to-end configuration, wherein at least two adjacent barriers are arranged with both of the pairs of openings of adjacent connectors being aligned. In one embodiment, at least two other adjacent barriers may be arranged with only one of the openings in each pair of adjacent connectors being aligned. A barrier and methods of assembling a barrier system are also provided. |
| US09181661B2 |
Sealing system for hitch assembly
A sealing system for a hitch assembly is disclosed. The hitch assembly includes a first hitch component and a second hitch component rotatable about a pin coupled therebetween. The sealing system includes a first sealing member located adjacent to the first hitch component. The first sealing member includes a first aperture extending therethrough. The sealing system also includes a second sealing member located adjacent to the second hitch component. The second sealing member includes a second aperture extending therethrough. The sealing system further includes at least one ring member provided between the first sealing member and the second sealing member. The ring member includes a third aperture extending therethrough. Further, the first, second and third apertures receive the pin therethrough. |
| US09181659B2 |
Compositions having increased concentrations of carboxymethylcellulose
Embodiments of the present description provide methods for increasing the concentration of carboxymethylcellulose alkali solutions that are particularly suitable for use in a high solids paper coating, barrier materials, etc. Generally described, the method includes dissolving carboxymethylcellulose (CMC) and an alkali salt in water to obtain an alkali solution of CMC. The CMC desirably has a degree of substitution less than about 0.9. The alkali solution of CMC includes CMC in a concentration greater than about 9.8% by weight, has a pH from about 7.5 to about 11, and is characterized as having a viscosity of less than about 5,000 mPa. |
| US09181655B2 |
Extended nip roll, an extended nip press making use of the extended nip roll, a papermaking machine and a method of operating an extended nip press
The invention relates to an extended nip roll (5) capable of forming a press nip (N) with a counter roll (7) which press nip (N) has an extension in a machine direction when the extended nip roll (5) cooperates with the counter roll (7). The extended nip roll (5) comprises a flexible jacket; an elastic press body (13) arranged inside the flexible jacket. The top side (14) of the press body (13) is beveled in such a way that, in the machine direction, a working surface (15) of the top side has a downstream end (16) which, in the machine direction, is followed by an exit side surface (17) that diverges from the interior surface (11) of the flexible jacket (10). The press body (13) further has at least a first and a second internal pressure chamber (18, 19). The pressure chambers (18, 19) can be pressurized such that the press body (13) expands. The first internal pressure (18) chamber has an extension in the machine direction that does not extend beyond the working surface (15) and the second internal pressure chamber (19) is located downstream of the first internal pressure chamber (18) and has an extension in the machine direction beyond the downstream end (16) of the working surface (15). The working surface (15) and the exit side surface (17) are made of a material that has a higher shore A hardness than the material in the rest of the press body (13). The invention also relates to an extended nip press and a paper machine in which the extended nip roll is used. The invention further relates to a method of operating the extended nip press. |
| US09181654B2 |
Refiner plate having a smooth, wave-like groove and related methods
A set of plate segments for refining comminuted cellulosic material including: a first plate segment and a second plate segment, wherein the first plate segment and the second plate segment each have a refining side configured to oppose the refining side on the other segment, and each of said refining sides includes a refining zone having bars and grooves between adjacent ones of the bars, wherein distance between the grooves in the first plate segment and the grooves in the second plate segment is substantially constant along an arc through the refining zone while the set is mounted to discs in a refiner. |
| US09181652B2 |
Bedding product having different colors for hem and body
A bedding product having a colored hem and methods of making the same are disclosed. The bedding product can have a plain body attached to a colored hem which is made color fast so as to inhibit fading of the colored hem and/or prevent bleeding, crocking, and/or running of color from the colored hem onto the plain body during the useful life of the bedding product. The colored hem can be made color fast by a method including selecting a fabric, selecting dyes based on the fabric, preparing the fabric such as by mercerizing, applying the dyes, and treating the dyed fabric to remove unfixed dyes contained in the fabric to improve subsequent colorfastness. |
| US09181650B2 |
Washing machine equipped with bulk tanks
A washing machine, such as a laundry washing machine, a washing/drying machine or the like, has a tub housing a drum into which the laundry to be washed is loaded. The machine is equipped with at least one tank for a washing agent, and at least one supply duct is afferent to the tank for delivering the washing agent into the tub. A hydraulic washing circuit floods and drains the tank for cleaning purpose. A tank cleaning method is also disclosed. |
| US09181648B2 |
Method for treating laundry and inline washing system
A method for treating laundry and an inline washing machine that makes provision for water to be removed from the laundry selectively only in a water-removal press or in a water-removal press and a laundry centrifuge. Delicate items of laundry are subjected only to preliminary pressing in the water-removal press while water is then completely removed in the laundry centrifuge. In this way, a water-removal press can always be permanently arranged downstream of the washing machine and all the laundry, including delicate laundry, can pass through the water-removal press. |
| US09181644B2 |
Buttonhole presser device and method of stitching buttonhole by using the same
A buttonhole presser device includes a fabric presser unit; a fabric feed frame unit including a start position detecting member and an immovable receiving portion, the fabric feed frame unit being slidable relative to the fabric presser unit between a start position and an end position of the buttonhole; a button-diameter measuring unit including an end position detecting member and a movable receiving portion, the button-diameter measuring unit being configured to grip a button by being slid relative to the fabric feed frame unit; and a fixing unit that fixes the button-diameter measuring unit to the fabric feed frame unit when the button-diameter measuring unit is gripping the button between the immovable receiving portion and the movable receiving portion and that allows the button to be removed after the button-diameter measuring unit has been fixed to the fabric feed frame unit. |
| US09181642B2 |
Triaxial textile armature, process for producing triaxial textile armatures and composite material part
A triaxial textile armature is provided for making composite materials. The armature includes a central layer of axial yarns cross-linked by bias yarns extending in a first and a second direction the bias yarns extending in the first direction passing through the central layer of axial yarns in even intervals between axial yarns of the central, and the bias yarns extending in the second direction passing through the central layer of axial yarns in odd intervals. |
| US09181638B2 |
Conjugated fiber having excellent flame retardancy and color fastness and interior fabric using the same
A conjugated fiber having excellent flame retardancy and color fastness and an interior fabric using the same are provided. According to the present invention, a sheath-core type conjugated fiber comprises a core component of polyphenylene sulfide resin and a sheath component of polyester-based resin. A sea-island type conjugated fiber comprises an island component of polyphenylene sulfide resin and a sea component of polyester-based resin. |
| US09181637B2 |
Method for producing long fiber nonwoven fabric
A method for producing a long fiber nonwoven fabric includes (a) melting resin containing polyphenylene sulfide as main component, discharging it from a spinneret, solidifying resulting filaments by cooling and stretching the filaments by pulling them out of an ejector at a spinning speed of 3,000 m/min or more while heat-treating as the filaments travel to the ejector outlet to provide a long fiber; (b) collecting the long fiber on a moving net to form a nonwoven web; and (c) subjecting the nonwoven web to thermal bonding. |
| US09181635B2 |
Methods for the production of microfibers and nanofibers using a multiple chamber fiber producing device
Described herein are apparatuses and methods of creating fibers, such as microfibers and nanofibers. The methods discussed herein employ centrifugal forces to transform material into fibers. Apparatuses that may be used to create fibers are also described. Described herein are fiber producing devices that have various types of outlet elements coupled to the fiber producing device. |
| US09181632B1 |
C.difficile toxin B CROP domain peptides, antibodies and complexes thereof
The present invention provides polypeptide domains of C. difficile toxin B (B1, B2, B3, B4) and complexes between the polypeptides and antibodies that bind specifically for the polypeptide. Methods of using the polypeptides to generate antibodies are also provided. |
| US09181624B2 |
Method of electrolysis employing two-chamber ion exchange membrane electrolytic cell having gas diffusion electrode
Disclosed is an electrolysis method, whereby sodium chloride concentration of an aqueous caustic soda solution formed through electrolysis in a two-chamber ion-exchange membrane sodium chloride electrolytic cell, which is equipped with a gas diffusion electrode as a cathode and divided into an anode chamber containing an anode and a cathode gas chamber containing the cathode that are partitioned by an ion-exchange membrane, is lowered. In a two-chamber ion-exchange membrane electrolytic cell (1) using a gas diffusion electrode (7), electrolysis is performed while reducing the pressure difference between the liquid pressure in the anode chamber and the gas pressure in the cathode gas chamber, i.e., the pressure calculated by subtracting [oxygen-containing gas pressure in cathode chamber (measured by manometer (18))] or [gas pressure at oxygen-containing gas inlet (14)] from [(liquid pressure in anode chamber applied to ion-exchange membrane when anode chamber is filled up with aqueous sodium chloride solution) being equal to (depth of aqueous sodium chloride solution)(density of aqueous sodium chloride solution)/2]. |
| US09181623B2 |
Solution and process for activating the surface of a semiconductor substrate
A solution and a process are used for activating the surface of a substrate comprising at least one area formed from a polymer, for the purpose of subsequently covering it with a metallic layer deposited via an electroless process. The composition contains: A) an activator formed from one or more palladium complexes; B) a binder formed from one or more organic compounds chosen from compounds comprising at least two glycidyl functions and at least two isocyanate functions; and C) a solvent system formed from one or more solvents capable of dissolving said activator and said binder. The solution and process may be applied for the manufacture of electronic devices such as integrated circuits, especially in three dimensions. |
| US09181615B2 |
Coating fluid for boron diffusion
A coating fluid comprising a boron compound, an organic binder, a silicon compound, an alumina precursor, and water and/or an organic solvent is used to diffuse boron into a silicon substrate to form a p-type diffusion layer. The coating fluid is spin coated onto the substrate to form a uniform coating having a sufficient amount of impurity whereupon a p-type diffusion layer having in-plane uniformity is formed. |
| US09181613B2 |
High tensile strength hot-dip galvannealed steel sheet having excellent coated-layer adhesiveness and method for producing same
A high tensile strength hot-dip galvannealed steel sheet having excellent coated-layer adhesiveness in which the hot-dip galvannealed layer does not peel off from a base steel sheet even in being subjected to working accompanied by sliding and a method for producing the same are provided. In the high tensile strength hot-dip galvannealed steel sheet, a hot-dip galvannealed layer is formed on the surface of the base steel sheet, the base steel sheet contains Si by 0.04-2.5%, and, when the surface roughness of the base steel sheet after the hot-dip galvannealed layer is removed by dissolution with an acid is measured for a plurality of locations by a laser microscope, the arithmetic mean inclination angle (RΔa) is 23.0° or more and the root mean square inclination angle (RΔq) is 29.0° or more in 60% or more of all of the locations measured. |
| US09181610B2 |
Air cooling equipment for heat treatment process for martensitic stainless steel pipe or tube
An object of the present invention is to provide air cooling equipment for a heat treatment process for a martensitic stainless steel pipe, which is capable of shortening the time required for the heat treatment process by enhancing the cooling efficiency at the time when the inner surface of steel pipe is air cooled in the heat treatment ent process.Air cooling equipment 100 for a heat treatment process for a martensitic stainless steel pipe P in accordance with the present invention comprises: a conveying device 10 for intermittently conveying the steel pipe P in the direction substantially at right angles to the longitudinal direction of the steel pipe P; and an air cooling device 20 provided with a nozzle 21 for spraying air Bi toward the inner surface of the steel pipe P, the nozzle 21 being arranged along the longitudinal direction of the steel pipe P at a stop position of the steel pipe P intermittently conveyed by the conveying device 10 so as to face to an end of the steel pipe P. |
| US09181608B2 |
Magnesium alloy sheet
A magnesium alloy sheet is made of a magnesium alloy containing Al. Particles of an intermetallic compound containing at least one of Al and Mg are present in the sheet in a dispersed state. The sheet includes an oxide film which extends substantially over the surface of the sheet and which has a uniform thickness. The average size of the particles of the intermetallic compound is 0.5 μm or less. The percentage of the total area of the particles is 11% or less. Therefore, the magnesium alloy sheet is excellent corrosion resistance. A magnesium alloy structural member is provided. |
| US09181597B1 |
Creep resistant high temperature martensitic steel
The disclosure provides a creep resistant alloy having an overall composition comprised of iron, chromium, molybdenum, carbon, manganese, silicon, nickel, vanadium, niobium, nitrogen, tungsten, cobalt, tantalum, boron, and potentially additional elements. In an embodiment, the creep resistant alloy has a molybdenum equivalent Mo(eq) from 1.475 to 1.700 wt. % and a quantity (C+N) from 0.145 to 0.205. The overall composition ameliorates sources of microstructural instability such as coarsening of M23C6 carbides and MX precipitates, and mitigates or eliminates Laves and Z-phase formation. A creep resistant martensitic steel may be fabricated by preparing a melt comprised of the overall composition followed by at least austenizing and tempering. The creep resistant alloy exhibits improved high-temperature creep strength in the temperature environment of around 650° C. |
| US09181594B2 |
Process and device for producing pig iron or liquid steel precursors
A process for producing pig iron or liquid primary steel products in a smelting unit (1), in particular a melter gasifier. Iron-ore-containing charge materials, and possibly additions, are at least partially reduced in at least one reduction unit (R1, R2, R3, R4) by means of a reducing gas. A first fraction of the at least partially reduced charge materials is melted down in the smelting unit (1), while carbon carriers and oxygen-containing gas are supplied, with the simultaneous formation of the reducing gas. The reducing gas is fed to the reduction unit (R1, R2, R3, R4) and, after the reducing gas has passed through the reduction unit, it is drawn off as top gas. A second fraction of the at least partially reduced charge materials is fed to a smelting reduction unit for reducing and smelting. |
| US09181593B2 |
Compositions and methods to detect Atopobium vaginae nucleic acid
The disclosed invention include nucleic acid oligomers that may be used as amplification oligomers, including primers, as capture probes for sample preparation, and detection probes for detection of 16S rRNA from Atopobium vaginae in samples by using methods of specific nucleic acid amplification and detection. |
| US09181592B2 |
Method for detecting a bacterial pathogen
A method is provided for detecting a bacterial pathogen in a sample. One step of the method includes obtaining a sample and then subjecting the sample to nested PCR. The nested PCR is conducted in the presence of at least two outer oligonucleotide primers complementary to a target nucleotide sequence of the bacterial pathogen so that a first amplified product is produced. The target nucleotide sequence includes at least a portion of a 16S-23S ribosomal RNA sequence. The first amplified product is subjected to the nested PCR in the presence of at least two inner oligonucleotide primers complementary to the nucleotide sequence of the first amplified product so that a second amplified product is obtained. Detection of the second amplified product indicates the presence of the bacterial pathogen in the sample. |
| US09181580B2 |
Super-enhancers and methods of use thereof
The present invention relates in some aspects to super-enhancers and related compositions, methods, and agents that are useful for modulating expression of cell type-specific genes that are required for maintenance of cell identity (e.g., embryonic stem cell identity) or maintenance of a disease state (e.g., cancer). |
| US09181577B2 |
Treatment of chronic pelvic pain syndrome
The present invention provides compositions and methods for detection, diagnosis, treatment and/or prevention of chronic pelvic pain syndrome. In particular, the present invention provides biomarkers of chronic pelvic pain syndrome (e.g., mast cell markers (e.g., tryptase)), and/or inhibition of mast cell function (e.g. inhibition of MCP-1 and/or MIP-1α) to treat or prevent chronic pelvic pain syndrome. |
| US09181571B2 |
Reusable PCR amplification system and method
A DNA amplification device utilizing a polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) and silicon substrate coated with spin-on glass (SOG) is provided. This PDMS layer is irreversibly bonded to the SOG layer of the silicon substrate using oxygen plasma. The amplification device is an inexpensive, microfluidic device, which can be utilized as a portable thermo-cycler to perform PCR amplification of DNA in the field. |
| US09181566B2 |
Genetic switches for butanol production
The invention relates to suitable screening strategies for evaluating various candidate promoters for differential gene expression during the propagation and production phases of a fermentation process. The invention also relates to recombinant host cells that comprise identified promoter nucleic acid sequences and methods for producing fermentation products employing the same. |
| US09181565B2 |
Sulfur management for processes and control systems for the efficient anaerobic conversion of hydrogen and carbon oxides to alcohols
High conversion efficiency processes are disclosed for the anaerobic bioconversion of syngas to alcohol by microorganisms having metabolic processes that utilize sulfur in limited amounts. The processes remove hydrogen sulfide from the gas leaving the bioreactor assembly by forming sulfur compounds that are beneficial to the microorganisms. The sulfur compounds can be returned to the bioreactor assembly to meet a portion of microorganism sulfur demand. |
| US09181560B2 |
Chimeric promoters and their uses thereof in plants
The present invention provides novel promoters for use in plants. Specifically, the present invention provides novel enhanced plant promoters. The present invention also provides DNA constructs; transgenic cells, plants, and seeds containing these novel promoters; and methods for preparing and using the same. |
| US09181559B2 |
Generation of high polyhydroxybutyrate producing oilseeds
Transgenic plants, plant material, plant cells, and genetic constructs for synthesis of biopolymers, for example polyhydroxyalkanoates (“PHA”) are provided. In one embodiment, the transgenic plants synthesize polyhydroxybutyrate (“PHB”). In one embodiment the transgenic plant encodes siRNA for one or more of the genes encoding enzymes for producing PHA. In a more preferred embodiment, the siRNA expression is under the control of an inducible regulatory element. In another embodiment, the transgenic plant contains transgenes that encode expression enzymes that will degrade the polymer. In a preferred embodiment, the expression of these enzymes is under the control of a germination specific, inducible, or minimal promoter. In another embodiment, the transgenic plant contains transgenes encoding enzymes that increase carbon flow for polymer synthesis. In a preferred embodiment, these transgenes encode enzymes that increase carbon flow in the Calvin Cycle. |
| US09181553B2 |
Method of treatment of breast cancers over-expressing the SHP2 signature genes
A method for treating breast cancer in a subject having a breast cancer over-expressing the “SHP2 signature” genes, as compared to normal breast tissue samples, which method comprises the step of administering to said subject a therapeutically effective amount of a modulator of the protein tyrosine phosphatase, non-receptor type 11 (PTPN11) gene or of its gene product (Shp2). |
| US09181552B2 |
Materials and methods directed to asparagine synthetase and asparaginase therapies
Materials and Methods for use in treating cell proliferative disorders related to asparagine metabolism are provided. Cell proliferative disorders include such cancers as forms of leukemia, ovarian cancers, melanomas, renal cancers, breast cancers, brain cancers, and other cancers. Methods include the use of RNA interference targeted at asparagine synthetase to enhance the efficacy of L-asparaginase therapies. |
| US09181550B2 |
Compositions and methods for modulating apolipoprotein (a) expression
Provided herein are oligomeric compounds with conjugate groups targeting apoplipoprotein (a) [apo(a)]. In certain embodiments, the apo(a) targeting oligomeric compounds are conjugated to N-Acetylgalactosamine. Also disclosed herein are conjugated oligomeric compounds targeting apo(a) for use in decreasing apo(a) to treat, prevent, or ameliorate diseases, disorders or conditions related to apo(a) and/or Lp(a). Certain diseases, disorders or conditions related to apo(a) and/or Lp(a) include inflammatory, cardiovascular and/or metabolic diseases, disorders or conditions. The conjugated oligomeric compounds disclosed herein can be used to treat such diseases, disorders or conditions in an individual in need thereof. |
| US09181544B2 |
Therapeutic compounds
The present invention is directed to RNA interference (RNAi) molecules targeted against a Huntington's disease nucleic acid sequence, and methods of using these RNAi molecules to treat Huntington's disease. |
| US09181540B2 |
Method for production of polypeptide
The present invention provides a method capable of producing a natural or recombinant protein in high yield. The present invention relates to a method of producing a polypeptide, comprising culturing a cell which strongly expresses cysteine sulfinic acid decarboxylase and has a transferred DNA encoding a desired polypeptide and thereby allowing the cell to produce the polypeptide. Hamster cysteine sulfinic acid decarboxylase, a DNA encoding the same, a recombinant vector and a transformed cell are also provided. |
| US09181533B2 |
Truncated ACTRIIB-FC fusion protein
In certain aspects, the present invention provides compositions and methods for modulating (promoting or inhibiting) growth of a tissue, such as bone, cartilage, muscle, fat, brown fat and/or neuronal tissue and for treating metabolic disorders such as diabetes and obesity, as well as disorders associated with any of the foregoing tissue. |
| US09181531B2 |
Process for purifying VLPs
Processes and compositions to produce, package, and purify virus like particles containing heterologous cargo molecules utilizing self assembling proteins and protease treatment coupled with simple precipitation and filtration methods are described. |
| US09181530B2 |
Infectious hepatitis E virus genotype 3 recombinants
The invention relates to the discovery of an HEV strain from a chronically infected patient. The virus grow unusually well in numerous cell cultures. Thus, the invention provides cell cultures, vectors, and vaccine compositions based on the virus. The invention relates, in part, on the identification of a new strain of HEV genotype 3 virus. Strain Kernow-C1 (genotype 3) of HEV, which was isolated from a chronically infected patient, was used to identify human, pig and deer cell lines permissive for infection. Adaptation of the Kernow-C 1 strain to growth in human hepatoma cells selected for a rare virus recombinant that contained an insertion of 174 ribonucleotides (58 amino acids) of a human ribosomal protein gene and additional mutations. |
| US09181528B2 |
Differentiation of pluripotent stem cells
The present invention provides methods to promote the differentiation of pluripotent stem cells into insulin producing cells. In particular, the present invention provides a method utilizing a CYP26A inhibitor to produce a population of pancreatic endocrine precursor cells. |
| US09181526B2 |
Regulatory T cells and their use in immunotherapy and suppression of autoimmune responses
Based upon a strong correlation between regulator T cells (Treg cells) and suppressing or preventing a cytotoxic T cell response, provided are methods for the production of ex vivo activated and culture-expanded isolated CD4+CD25+ suppressor Treg cells for the prevention or suppression of immune reactions in a host, particularly in a human host, and including autoimmune responses. The resulting ex vivo culture-expanded Treg cells provide a sufficient amount of otherwise low numbers of such cells, having long term suppressor capability to permit therapeutic uses, including the preventing, suppressing, blocking or inhibiting the rejection of transplanted tissue in a human or other animal host, or protecting against graft vs host disease. Also provided are therapeutic and immunosuppressive methods utilizing the ex vivo culture-expanded Treg cells for human treatment, and high efficiency methods for research use. |
| US09181522B2 |
Method and apparatus for aseptic transfer of biological material
The present application discloses a novel biological material transfer apparatus and methods of using the same. The apparatus is made up of double walled barrel shaped tip chamber to house either the single tip or multiple tips of fixed size and a unique ball head to transfer the biological material from one location to another location in an aseptic method. The tip has a fixed shape and size and a ball head which makes the process of picking and transferring of biological material easy, safe and convenient to use with large scale samples. The apparatus is further equipped with an ultra violet light which sterilize the tips just before their use making the entire process of transferring of biological material highly aseptic. |
| US09181513B2 |
Blown and stripped plant-based oils
A method for producing a high viscosity, low volatiles blown stripped plant-based oil is provided. The method may include the steps of: (i) obtaining a plant-based oil; (ii) heating the oil to at least 90° C.; (iii) passing air through the heated oil to produce a blown oil having a viscosity of at least 50 cSt at 40° C.; (iv) stripping the blown oil from step (iii) to reduce an acid value of the blown oil to from 5 mg KOH/g to about 9 mg KOH/g; (v) adding a polyol to the stripped oil from (iv); and (vi) stripping the oil from step (v) to reduce the acid value of the oil to less than 5.0 mg KOH/g or less. |
| US09181510B2 |
Lubricating composition containing a dispersant
The invention provides a lubricating composition containing a copolymer comprising units derived from monomers (i) α-olefin and (ii) an ethylenically unsaturated carboxylic acid or derivatives thereof esterified and amidated with an alcohol and an aromatic amine respectively, and an oil of lubricating viscosity. The invention further relates to the use of the lubricating composition in an internal combustion engine. |
| US09181505B2 |
Integrated biofuel process
The instant invention pertains to new processes which produce an energy source effectively, efficiently, and in a more environmentally friendly manner. The process comprises hydrolyzing a lignocellulosic feedstock to form lignocellulosic hydrolyzate and a hydrolyzate residue. The lignocellulosic hydrolyzate is treated to produce hydrogen. The hydrolyzate residue may be reacted with hydrogen in the presence of a catalyst to yield the energy source. |
| US09181504B2 |
Method and device for removing tars from synthesis gas obtained during gasification of biomass
Method and system for gasifying biomass. Tar loaded gas from the reactor for gasifying the biomass is subjected to a saturation and absorption treatment with a first and second fluid respectively. The first fluid comprises aromatic hydrocarbons whilst the second fluid comprises linear hydrocarbons. Tars received in the aromatic fluid is entered together with such fluid in a separation column. Separation is effected based on evaporation temperature and the lighter fraction is returned to the inflow of the saturation separator. The heavier fractions are either discharged or sent back to the biomass reactor. An intermediate buffer vessel can be provided between the discharge of the saturation cleaner and the separator. |
| US09181498B2 |
Apparatus and process for removal of sulfur-containing compounds from a hydrocarbon stream
A process for removing sulfur compounds from a liquid hydrocarbon stream includes the steps of feeding the hydrocarbon stream to a recirculation section of an extraction vessel wherein the recirculation section contains a first alkaline solution; passing the hydrocarbon stream through the recirculation section; recirculating at least a part of a first alkaline stream to a top deck of one or more liquid-liquid contacting decks of the recirculation section; passing the hydrocarbon stream from the recirculation section to an extraction section of the extraction vessel wherein the extraction section includes one or more liquid-liquid contacting decks; feeding a second alkaline stream to an upper deck of the one or more liquid-liquid contacting decks of the extraction section wherein the second alkaline stream includes a second alkaline solution; and withdrawing a hydrocarbon product stream from the extraction vessel. An apparatus for removing sulfur compounds from the hydrocarbon stream is also disclosed. |
| US09181497B2 |
Process, method, and system for removing mercury from fluids
Trace amount levels of non-volatile mercury in crude oil are reduced by contacting the crude oil with a water stream containing at least a monatomic water-soluble sulfur species such as sulfides and hydrosulfides. The non-volatile mercury is extracted into the water phase forming a mercury rich wastewater, yielding a treated crude oil having at less than 50% of the original non-volatile mercury level. The wastewater can disposed or recycled by injection into a reservoir. In one embodiment, the water stream consists essentially of produced water. |
| US09181495B2 |
Convection zone of a cracking furnace
The invention relates to a process for cracking a hydrocarbon-containing feed in a cracking furnace. A plurality of heat exchangers are arranged in the convection zone of the cracking furnace to utilize the heat of flue gas formed in the radiation zone by combustion. Depending on the type and state of matter of the hydrocarbon-containing feed, flow occurs through the heat exchangers to achieve, independently of the type and state of matter of the hydrocarbon-containing feed, an exit temperature of the flue gas in the range from 80° C. to 150° C. |
| US09181494B2 |
Process and apparatus for purifying material of biological origin
The present invention relates to a process and an apparatus for purifying tall oil material for the production of biofuels and components thereof. The present invention relates further to hydroprocessing of the purified material to obtain biofuels and components thereof. |
| US09181490B2 |
Methods for recovering and/or removing reagents from porous media
A composition and method for displacing, dissolving, extracting, recovering, and/or removing solvent and/or any solvent-associated liquids from a solvent-treated material or penetrating through pores or the surface of a solvent-treated material using a solvent-extracting composition for contacting solvent-treated material and separating the solvent and any solvent-associated liquids from the solvent-treated material as well as the solvent-extracting composition. |
| US09181488B2 |
Waste material converter using rotary drum
An apparatus for controlled pyrolysis of waste material includes an elongate, perforated rotary drum lined with refractory material, having a longitudinal axis of rotation, and forming a chamber to receive and decompose the waste material. The drum includes a cylindrical metal exterior which has numerous apertures distributed over its cylindrical surface provided for passage of a limited amount of process air into the chamber. A mechanism is provided for supporting the drum for rotation about the longitudinal axis. An external shell encloses the rotary drum and prevents external ambient air from flowing through the apertures and into the chamber. Air distribution housings are distributed along the length of the rotary drum and form air distribution chambers each of which is enclosed except on an inner side of the chamber. This inner side is open for delivery of process air through a selected portion of apertures in the metal exterior. |
| US09181483B2 |
Liquid crystal composition and liquid crystal display device
To provide a liquid crystal composition satisfying at least one characteristic such as high maximum temperature of a nematic phase, low minimum temperature thereof, small viscosity, suitable optical anisotropy, large negative dielectric anisotropy, large specific resistance, high stability to ultraviolet light and heat, or has a suitable balance regarding at least two characteristics. To provide an AM device having short response time, a large voltage holding ratio, a large contrast ratio, long service life and so forth. A liquid crystal composition has a nematic phase and contains a specific compound having large dielectric anisotropy as a first component and a specific compound having small viscosity as a second component, and may contain a specific compound having high maximum temperature or small viscosity as a third component and a specific compound having large dielectric anisotropy as a fourth component, and a liquid crystal display device includes the composition. |
| US09181480B2 |
Liquid crystal composition, liquid crystal display element, and liquid crystal display
A liquid crystal composition having a negative dielectric anisotropy, a component (B) including at least one compound represented by formula (1.1) or formula (1.2), wherein the compound (B) is dielectrically neutral, having a dielectric anisotropy of more than −2 and less than +2; and a component (A) including at least one compound represented by formula (2.1) or formula (2.2), wherein the component (A) is dielectrically negative, having a dielectric anisotropy of −2 or less. |
| US09181477B2 |
Morphologically and size uniform monodisperse particles and their shape-directed self-assembly
Monodisperse particles having: a single pure crystalline phase of a rare earth-containing lattice, a uniform three-dimensional size, and a uniform polyhedral morphology are disclosed. Due to their uniform size and shape, the monodisperse particles self assemble into superlattices. The particles may be luminescent particles such as down-converting phosphor particles and up-converting phosphors. The monodisperse particles of the invention have a rare earth-containing lattice which in one embodiment may be an yttrium-containing lattice or in another may be a lanthanide-containing lattice. The monodisperse particles may have different optical properties based on their composition, their size, and/or their morphology (or shape). Also disclosed is a combination of at least two types of monodisperse particles, where each type is a plurality of monodisperse particles having a single pure crystalline phase of a rare earth-containing lattice, a uniform three-dimensional size, and a uniform polyhedral morphology; and where the types of monodisperse particles differ from one another by composition, by size, or by morphology. In a preferred embodiment, the types of monodisperse particles have the same composition but different morphologies. Methods of making and methods of using the monodisperse particles are disclosed. |
| US09181474B2 |
Amine-based compound and organic light-emitting diode including the same
An amine-based compound and an organic light-emitting diode including the amine-based compound. |
| US09181470B2 |
Electrorheological or magnetorheological compositions for treatment of subterranean formations and methods of using the same
The present invention relates to compositions for the treatment of subterranean formations, and methods of using the same. In various embodiments, the present invention provides a fluid for treatment of a subterranean formation, wherein the fluid is at least one of electrorheological and magnetorheological. Various embodiments also provide methods of using the electrorheological or magnetorheological fluid in a subterranean formation, including for fracturing, deposition of proppants, and combinations thereof. |
| US09181466B2 |
Microcapsules with a paraffin composition as capsule core
Microcapsules of the present invention have a core and a wall. The wall is made of a polymer, which by weight is from 40 to 90% C1-C24-alkyl ester of acrylic acid, methacrylic acid, or both (“first monomer”); from 10 to 60% an ethylenically unsaturated crosslinker; and from 0 to 30% an ethylenically monounsaturated monomer different from the first monomer. At least 80% of the crosslinker is has three or more ethylenically unsaturated radicals. The core is made of a paraffin composition, which by weight has from 35 to 98% n-octadecane; from 1 to 10% C20-C24-aliphatic, diisopropylnaphthalene, or both; from 1 to 5% wax with a melting point >40° C.; and from 0 to 50% n-hexadecane. The present invention also relates to a process for preparing the microcapsules and to their use in binding construction materials, textiles, and heat transfer liquids. |
| US09181463B2 |
Structural epoxy resin adhesives containing chain-extended elastomeric tougheners capped with phenol, polyphenol or aminophenol compounds
Structural adhesives are prepared from a chain extended elastomeric toughener that contains urethane and/or urea groups, and have terminal isocyanate groups that are capped with a phenol, a polyphenol or an aminophenol compound. The adhesives have very good storage stability and cure to form cured adhesives that have good lap shear and impact peel strengths. |
| US09181460B2 |
Gas transmitting polyurethane adhesive
A two-part, solvent-free laminating adhesive including a Part A that is a liquid mixture of a first polyol and a hydroxyl functional acrylic polymer having a molecular weight of no greater than 15,000 g/mole, and a Part B that is an isocyanate-terminated polyurethane prepolymer. The adhesive is especially suited for making flexible laminates for use in food packaging. When adhered two polymeric film materials and in cured form, the adhesive provides substantially no contribution to the oxygen barrier properties of the laminate. |
| US09181459B2 |
Component carrier reel splicing tape
A splicing tape for accurately aligning and joining spliced component carrier reels is disclosed. The flexible splice tape allows the components to remain aligned and picked from a component carrier reel without interruption at the union of a first and second reel. The splice tape with an optional stiffening strip provides a flexible, yet strong connection to prevent back and forth, axial and lateral movement between spliced reels. The detection of the disclosed splice tape facilitates elimination of incorrect and mismatched components during splicing. The splice tape comprises a plastic-type material coated on one side with a pressure-sensitive adhesive composition. A protective paper covers the adhesive composition. The splice tape and protective paper are divided into sections using a staggered slit arrangement. The staggered slit arrangement aids in proper alignment and adhesion of the splice tape to component carrier reels. |
| US09181456B2 |
Roofing product including roofing-grade asphalt mixture and methods of making the roofing product and the roofing-grade asphalt mixture
A method of forming an asphalt mixture can include mixing a bio-asphalt and a bitumen source material different from the bio-asphalt. The bio-asphalt can be formed by mixing a bio-source material with a liquid catalyst. Particles can be added to the asphalt mixture. In an embodiment, the bitumen source material can have a softening point of at least approximately 93° C. and a penetration distance no greater than approximately 25 dmm. In another embodiment, the roofing-grade asphalt mixture can have a softening point of at least approximately 104° C., a penetration distance no greater than approximately 12 dmm, a viscosity of at least approximately 3000 cps at a temperature of 204° C., or any combination thereof. The asphalt mixture can be applied to a base material to form a roofing product. The asphalt mixture can be applied as a pavement product. |
| US09181455B2 |
Method of making hydrophobic coated article, coated article including hydrophobic coatings, and/or sol compositions for use in the same
Certain example embodiments relate to a coated article including a coating formed from a sol that has hydrophobic surface properties. The sol may include a mixture of at least two alkylsiloxane chemicals, with the sol potentially being aged for a certain comparatively short amount of time before being wet-applied to a major substrate surface. The application process may also undergo a certain comparatively short curing process to help provide hydrophobic surface properties. The hydrophobic surface properties help provide anti-soiling functions that are advantageous in a variety of applications including, for example, solar mirror applications. |
| US09181454B2 |
Intumescent composition
An intumescent composition which comprises a polymer selected from a silane-terminated polyurethane or a silane-terminated polyether, a plasticizer that is compatible with the polymer and an intumescent ingredient. Processes of forming a cured intumescent substance, and methods of fire protecting a building are also provided. |
| US09181453B2 |
Crosslinkable composition crosslinkable with a latent base catalyst
The present invention relates to a crosslinkable polymer composition comprising reactive components A and B each comprising at least 2 reactive groups wherein the at least 2 reactive groups of component A are acidic protons (C—H) in activated methylene or methine groups and the at least 2 reactive groups of component B are activated unsaturated groups (C═C) to achieve crosslinking by Real Michael Addition (RMA), wherein the component A is a malonate containing component and wherein components A and B react on drying of the crosslinkable polymer composition by deblocking of latent base catalyst C by evaporation of carbon dioxide, which latent base crosslinking catalyst, is a substituted carbonate salt according to formula 1 wherein X+ represents a non acidic cation and wherein R is hydrogen, alkyl, aryl or aralkyl group. |
| US09181451B2 |
Formable aminoplast resin-based coating compositions
Disclosed herein are aminoplast resin-based coating compositions that provide formable, abrasion-resistant, and weatherable coatings when cured on the substrate. The coating compositions comprise an aminoplast resin; a curing catalyst; a first polyol having an average molecular weight greater than 300; a second polyol having an average molecular weight less than or equal to 300; and at least 5% by weight solids of at least two 2-hydroxyphenol benzotriazole (HPBT)-containing compounds based on the total solids of the coating composition. Also disclosed herein are articles comprising coatings cured from such coating compositions. |
| US09181448B2 |
Latex emulsions and coating compositions formed from latex emulsions
Latex emulsions are disclosed which can be used in the formation of coating compositions that are not water sensitive, have good blush resistance and retortability. In some embodiments, the coating compositions are used to coat substrates such as cans and packaging materials for the storage of food and beverages. Coating compositions of the invention may be prepared by polymerizing at least one ethylenically unsaturated monomer component, a stabilizer comprising a strong acid and an initiator in a carrier to form an emulsion, polymerizing the emulsion with at least one different ethylenically unsaturated monomer component to prepare the composite latex emulsion, and reacting the composite latex emulsion with a neutralizer to form the coating composition. Methods of coating substrates with the coating compositions, and substrates coated with the coating compositions are also disclosed. |
| US09181446B2 |
Ink composition and printing method
Provided are: an ink composition for ink-jet printing use, which has good re-dispersibility after being dried and does not undergo the change in properties of the ink even when stored for a long period; and an ink-jet printing method and a dyeing method each using the ink composition. The ink composition according to the present invention comprises: a pigment; water; a polymer (D) composed of at least two monomers independently selected from the group consisting of a monomer (A), a monomer (B) and a monomer (C) respectively represented by specific formulae; a styrene-butadiene resin; a water-soluble organic solvent; and a nonionic surfactant. |
| US09181444B2 |
Light-curable ink composition for ink jet recording and ink jet recording method using the same
A light-curable ink composition for ink jet recording contains a coloring material, a polymerizable compound, and a photopolymerization initiator. The coloring material contains at least C.I. Pigment Yellow 155, and the polymerizable compound contains at least a vinyl-ether-containing (meth)acrylate represented by general formula (I) below: CH2═CR1—COOR2—O—CH═CH—R3 (I). The vinyl-ether-containing (meth)acrylate is present in an amount of 10 to 67% by mass relative to the total mass of the ink composition. |
| US09181443B2 |
Resin for aqueous pigment dispersion, aqueous pigment dispersion, ink jet recording ink, and method for producing aqueous pigment dispersion
A resin for aqueous pigment dispersion that allows the production of an aqueous pigment dispersion for ink jet recording that contains only a few coarse particles and has excellent ejection stability, an aqueous pigment dispersion containing the resin for aqueous pigment dispersion, an ink jet recording ink, and a method for producing an aqueous pigment dispersion. A resin for aqueous pigment dispersion produced by copolymerization of a composition that contains (a) one or two or more compounds selected from the group consisting of alkenylsuccinic acids, alkenylsuccinic anhydrides, alkylsuccinic acids, and alkylsuccinic anhydrides, and (b) a styrene monomer, wherein the (a) component constitutes 5% by mass or more and the (b) component constitutes 30% by mass or more of the total amount of all the monomer component(s) and the (a) component of the composition. |
| US09181441B2 |
Coating or polymeric labels
This invention provides a polymer film coating for use preferably with cold glue labels, particularly on the adhesive-receiving side of a label film. The coating includes a filler component and a binder component, at least one of which is hydrophobic. The coating imparts water resistance and solvent resistance to an adhered label, thereby improving resistance to label removal due to moisture or water contact. A coated label and method of applying the coating to a label film are also included. |
| US09181439B2 |
Coating liquid, conductive coating film, electrode plate for electricity storage device, and electricity storage device
A coating formulation for forming a conductive coating film on a surface of a collector for constructing an electrode plate for an electricity storage device is provided. The coating formulation contains (A) a polymeric acid, (B) a vinyl carboxylate copolymer represented by the following formula (1): wherein R1 is selected from the group consisting of H, Na, organic groups derived from vinyl carboxylate monomers, and cations capable of forming electrolytes for the electricity storage device, R2 to R4 are independently selected from the group consisting of H, Na, C1-C6 alkyl groups, and cations capable of forming electrolytes for the electricity storage device, and a ratio (m/n) of m to n is from 0.0001 to 1, (C) a conductive material, and (D) a polar solvent. |
| US09181436B2 |
Cosmetic pigments, their production method, and cosmetics containing the cosmetic pigments
To provide cosmetic pigments that are human-body friendly with good skin adhesion and that provide good feeling, their production method, and cosmetics containing such cosmetic pigments which provide fresh and enriched feeling accordingly.Pigment surfaces are coated with mannosylerythritol lipid, which is glucolipids, consisting of mannose, sugar alcohol and a fatty acid as shown in the general expression (1) below: (Note: In the general expression, R1 and R2 denote aliphatic acyl group with carbon numbers 6 through 20, which can be either same or different. R3 and R4 denote hydrogen or acetyl group, which can be either same or different. n denotes an integer in the range of 2 to 4.) |
| US09181434B2 |
Pituitous silicone fluids
Personal care compositions containing pituitous silicone fluids compositions are disclosed. The silicone fluid compositions contain certain branched and/or high molecular weight organopolysiloxanes that demonstrate pituitous rheological behavior. When formulated into personal care compositions, the silicone fluids provide enhanced sensory and film-forming properties based on their pituitous rheological properties. |
| US09181431B2 |
Polyimide resin compositions
A thermoplastic composition comprises a polymer blend. The polymer blend comprises a first polyimide and a second polyimide. The first polyimide has repeating units derived from a first dianhydride and a first diamine. The second polyimide has repeating units derived from a second dianhydride and a second diamine. Either the first dianhydride and the second dianhydride are the same or the first diamine and the second diamine are the same. |
| US09181430B2 |
Wear and friction properties of engineering thermoplastics with ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene
Disclosed herein are compositions comprising a polymer comprising polyetherimide, polyetheretherketone, polyamide, polyoxyalkylene, or polyalkylene terephthalate, or a mixture thereof, and ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene, wherein the ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene comprises a surface modifier. Also disclosed are articles comprising one or more of the described compositions. This abstract is intended as a scanning tool for purposes of searching in the particular art and is not intended to be limiting of the present invention. |
| US09181426B2 |
Method of controlling orientation of domains in block copolymer films
A method of orienting microphase-separated domains is disclosed, comprising applying a composition comprising an orientation control component, and a block copolymer assembly component comprising a block copolymer having at least two microphase-separated domains in which the orientation control component is substantially immiscible with the block copolymer assembly component upon forming a film; and forming a compositionally vertically segregated film on the surface of the substrate from the composition. The orientation control component and block copolymer segregate during film forming to form the compositionally vertically-segregated film on the surface of a substrate, where the orientation control component is enriched adjacent to the surface of the compositionally segregated film adjacent to the surface of the substrate, and the block copolymer assembly is enriched at an air-surface interface. |
| US09181422B2 |
Enhanced ESCR bimodal rotomolding resin
The present disclosure provides a resin suitable for use in rotational molding having an environmental stress crack resistance of greater than 1000 hours. The resin has a density from 0.937 to 0.942 g/cm3, a melt index I2 determined according to ASTM D 1238 (2.16 kg/190° C.−I2) from 4.0 to 7.0 g/10 min, an I21 determined according to ASTM D 1238 (21.6 kg/190° C.−I21) from 160 to 200 g/10 min, an I21/I2 from 30 to 40 and a terminal vinyl unsaturation greater than 0.06, per 1000 carbon atoms; and a primary structure parameter (PSP2) of from 4 to 7, and an overall Mw/Mn from 2.7 to 3.5 comprising from 2 to 5 weight % of one or more C4-8 alpha olefin comonomers. |
| US09181420B2 |
Thermoset composite material and structural component and method of making the same from engineered recycled rubber powder
A thermoset composite material and composite railroad crosstie fabricated from the thermoset composite material that comprises a substantially homogeneous blend of an amount of vulcanized rubber particles, polyurea binding agent and urea melamine. The thermoset composite material may also contain a granulated silica material. The thermoset composite material may comprise about 30% to about 50% by weight of the vulcanized rubber particles, and it is subjected to compression molding at a predetermined temperature and pressure for a resident time period forming the composite railroad crosstie. The thermoset composite material and railroad crosstie may further comprise a fibrous glass material in the form of unbundled fibers and/or one more glass mats encapsulated within the thermoset composite material. In addition or alternatively, an elongated core insert may be encapsulated in the thermoset composite material. |
| US09181418B2 |
PVC product and method for treating surface thereof
Disclosed is a method for treating a surface of a PVC product. A PVC product including PVC and plasticizer is provided. A surface of the PVC product is treated by an aqueous solution of a crosslinking agent and a first phase transfer catalyst to form a first surface treated PVC product. The surface of the first surface treated PVC product is treated by an aqueous solution of an aqueous free radical initiator and a second phase transfer catalyst to form a second surface treated PVC product. As such, the release of the plasticizer from the PVC product to an environment is inhibited. |
| US09181415B2 |
Acetylated derivatives of castor oil and their blends with epoxidized fatty acid esters
The present disclosure is directed to acetylated castor components and compositions including the same. The acetylated castor component may be an acetylated castor oil and/or an acetylated castor wax. The acetylated castor component may be blended with an epoxidized fatty acid ester. The present acetylated castor components and blends find advantageous application as a plasticizer. |
| US09181412B2 |
Composition for the degradation of plastic
A composition for the degradation of plastic in the form of an additive used during the manufacturing of plastic. The composition being comprised of a predetermined amount of heptane, cellulose, methyl rhenium trioxide, butylated hydroxytoluene, and polyphenol oxidase. The additive can be selectively programmed to cause the plastic to begin disintegrating at a predetermined time. |
| US09181410B2 |
Systems for efficient heating and/or cooling and having low climate change impact
A heat transfer system and method for controlling heat transfer to and from a container having thermal insulation disposed with respect to said container or compartment so as to inhibit the flow of heat into and/or out of the compartment, said insulation comprising a polymeric material having closed cells therein wherein said cells are formed from and/or contain a haloalkene according to Formula IA: where each R is independently Cl, F, H, or CF3, provided that the total number of carbon atoms is either 3 or 4, R′ is (CR2)nY, Y is CF3 and n is 0 or 1; and a heat transfer system for adding and/or removing heat from the compartment or container by use of a heat transfer fluid comprising a haloalkene Formula IB: where each R is independently Cl, F or H R′ is (CR2)nY, Y is CF3 and n is 0 or 1. |
| US09181408B2 |
Method of forming a cured elastomer and golf balls
A method of forming a golf ball includes forming a pair of thermoplastic hemispherical shells from an elastomer compound including an elastomer and first, second, and third free radical initiators, with the elastomer being pre-crosslinked to a first crosslinking density, then positioning a spherical component between the hemispherical shells and compression molding and curing the hemispherical shells to a second crosslinking density around the spherical component. The method uses three different crosslinking temperatures. |
| US09181404B2 |
Manufacture of leather and fabric from materials containing protein hydrolysates and gelatins
Polymer blends and/or adducts obtainable from protein hydrolysates and/or gelatins used as raw material for the manufacture of regenerated leather and fabrics. Polymer adducts and/or blends conveniently prepared, tanned and finished can replace natural leather or fabric in the manufacture of clothing and consumer articles with particular technological properties. |
| US09181401B2 |
Phosphorylcholine-based amphiphilic silicones for medical applications
Amphiphilic biomimetic phosphorylcholine-containing silicone compounds for use in both topical and internal applications as components in biomedical devices. The silicone compounds, which include zwitterionic phosphorylcholine groups, may be polymerizable or non-polymerizable. Specific examples of applications include use as active functional components in ophthalmic lenses, ophthalmic lens care solutions, liquid bandages, wound dressings, and lubricious and anti-thrombogenic coatings. |