最新美国发明专利第2015-11-10期 - 专利汇|PatentHub专利检索|专利查询网|发明专利查询分析

Document	Document Title
US09181394B2	Composition for producing cast polyamides The present invention relates to novel compositions for producing cast polyamides.
US09181393B2	Biorenewable biodegradable surfactants Disclosed are compounds of formula (I) and salts, hydrates, or solvates thereof, where R1 and R2 are defined herein, compositions containing these compounds, and methods of using these compounds in a variety of applications, such as a surfactant or performance additive.
US09181391B2	Single-pot process for the production of polyester-co-carbonate polyols Polyester-co-carbonate polyols and methods for producing the same are provided. The method comprises reacting one or more alcohols having an OH functionality of two or more with one or more organic diacids to form a reaction mixture, adding a first amount of dialkyl carbonate to the reaction mixture to remove water remaining from the reaction mixture by azeotropic drying, adding a transesterification catalyst to the dialkyl carbonate containing reaction mixture and adding a second amount of dialkyl carbonate to the catalyst containing reaction mixture.
US09181390B2	Interfacial processes for preparing photoactive additives Different interfacial processes for producing photoactive additives are disclosed. Generally, the photoactive additives are cross-linkable polycarbonate resins formed from a dihydroxybenzophenone, a first linker moiety, a diol chain extender, and an end-capping agent. The resulting additives can be crosslinked with other polymers upon exposure to UV radiation.
US09181388B2	Polyester compositions containing cyclobutanediol having a certain combination of inherent viscosity and high glass transition temperature and articles made therefrom Described are polyester compositions comprising at least one polyester which comprises terephthalic acid residues, 2,2,4,4-tetramethyl-1,3-cyclobutanediol, and 1,4-cyclohexanedimethanol, wherein the inherent viscosity and the Tg of the polyester provides for certain polyester properties. The polyesters may be manufactured into articles such as fibers, films, bottles or sheets.
US09181386B2	Polishing pad, manufacturing method therefor, and method for manufacturing a semiconductor device A polishing pad having a polishing layer comprising a thermoset polyurethane foam, wherein the thermoset polyurethane foam contains, as raw material components, an isocyanate component, and active-hydrogen-containing compounds, and the active-hydrogen-containing compounds comprise one or more polyol compounds (each) having two or more functional groups, and a monool compound having one functional group.
US09181385B2	Polyurethanes and polyurethane-ureas having improved properties A microcellular polyurethane or polyurethane-urea foam elastomer includes the reaction product of (A) with (B) and/or water, a blowing agent, a catalyst forming urethane and/or ureic groups wherein: (A) is a prepolymer having a —NCO free group content included between 2%-25% (% w/w), which includes the reaction product of (a1) one or more aliphatic, cycloaliphatic and/or aromatic diisocyanates excluding 3,3′-dimethyl-4,4′-diphenylene diisocyanate, or one or more polyisocyanates or mixture of diisocyanates and polyisocyanates; with (a2a) one or more polyester macrodiols, a number of —OH groups per molecule equal to about 2; (B) is a compound selected from (b1) a diol or polyol; (b2) a primary or secondary aliphatic, cycloaliphatic amine or aliphatic, cycloaliphatic aromatic disecondary diamine or a blocked amine; (b3) one or more polyester macrodiols having a number of —OH group per molecule equal to about 2; (b4) a mixture formed of two or more compounds (b1), (b2) and (b3).
US09181383B2	Polyisocyanurate composition Polyisocyanurate foam composition, articles comprising the composition and a method of making the composition are described. The polyisocyanurate foam composition comprises the reaction product of a polyisocyanate compound; and a first polyester polyol comprising the residue of orthophthalic acid; a second polyester polyol comprising the residue of terephthalic acid; at least one polyether polyol having a functionality of at least 3 and a hydroxyl number greater than 200; and a physical blowing agent, wherein the isocyanate index is greater than 250.
US09181381B2	Photosensitive resin composition and cured film Disclosed is a photosensitive resin composition capable of displaying satisfactory patterning performance against an alkaline developer and yielding a cured film of a sufficiently low coefficient of linear thermal expansion. The photosensitive resin composition contains a photopolymerization initiator and a polyimide precursor obtained by the reaction of an ester-containing diamine such as 4-aminophenyl 4′-aminobenzoate, a biphenyl-based diamine such as 4,4′-diamino-2,2′-dimethylbiphenyl, and an unsaturated group-containing diamine such as 4,4′-diamino-2,2′-divinylbiphenyl with an acid anhydride such as pyromellitic dianhydride. The content of the structural unit derived from the unsaturated group-containing diamine in the polyimide precursor is 5-60 mol %.
US09181379B2	Modified polyolefins The invention provides a process for grafting silane or silicone functionality onto a polyolefin, comprising reacting the polyolefin with an unsaturated monomer (A) containing an olefinic —C═C— bond or acetylenic —C≡C— bond and a reactive functional group X in the presence of means capable of generating free radical sites in the polyolefin and with an organosilicon compound (B) having a functional group Y which is reactive with the functional group X of the unsaturated monomer (A), characterized in that the unsaturated monomer (A) contains an aromatic ring or a further olefinic double bond or acetylenic unsaturation, the aromatic ring or the further olefinic double bond or acetylenic unsaturation being conjugated with the olefinic —C═C— or acetylenic —C≡C— unsaturation of the unsaturated monomer (A).
US09181373B2	Polyoxyalkylene modified vinyl alcohol-based polymer and use thereof Provided is a polyoxyalkylene modified vinyl alcohol-based polymer comprising a polyoxyalkylene group in a side chain, wherein the polymer has a viscosity average degree of polymerization of not less than 150 and not more than 5000, a degree of saponification of not less than 40 mol % and not more than 99.99 mol %, and a polyoxyalkylene group modification rate of not less than 0.05 mol % and not more than 10 mol %; and the polyoxyalkylene group is composed of a polyoxypropylene block and a (poly)oxyethylene block and is represented by the following general formula (I). Such polymer is excellent in temperature-sensitive thickening properties. (in the general formula (I), R1 denotes a hydrogen atom or an alkyl group having a carbon number of from 1 to 8; either one of R2 and R3 is a methyl group and the other is a hydrogen atom; and 10≦m≦40 and 1≦n≦50).
US09181371B2	Methods for producing polyolefins with catalyst systems Described herein are methods comprising contacting one or more olefins with a catalyst system in a polymerization reactor at conditions sufficient to produce a polyolefin, wherein the catalyst system comprises a first metallocene catalyst compound comprising a first transition metal atom, two cyclopentadienyl ligands bound to the first transition metal atom, and two leaving groups bound to the first transition metal atom, wherein at least one leaving group is selected from the group consisting of a halo-phenoxy and a halo-alkoxy; wherein the first metallocene catalyst compound has a catalyst productivity that is at least 20% greater than a comparative metallocene catalyst compound used to produce the same polyolefin, wherein the comparative metallocene catalyst compound is the same as the first metallocene catalyst compound except neither leaving group is a halo-phenoxy or a halo-alkoxy.
US09181370B2	Low density polyolefin resins with low molecular weight and high molecular weight components, and films made therefrom Disclosed herein are ethylene-based polymers produced using dual metallocene catalyst systems. These polymers have low densities, high molecular weights, and broad molecular weight distributions, as well as having the majority of the long chain branches in the lower molecular weight component of the polymer, and the majority of the short chain branches in the higher molecular weight component of the polymer. Films produced from these polymers have improved impact and puncture resistance.
US09181365B2	Methods for activating polymerizable compositions, polymerizable systems, and products formed thereby The exemplary embodiments disclosed herein relate to activating methods for initiation polymerization of methylene malonates and other polymerizable compositions. The polymerization may be activated by anionic or free radical mechanisms. Because the polymerization may occur very quickly upon contact between the activating agent and the polymerizable composition, methods are provide herein for separating or otherwise rendering the activating agent ineffective to initiate polymerization, until such a reaction is desired. The separation may be physical (separate packaging, separate application steps, encapsulation) or it may be based on latent-activation methods (activation precursors, UV activation). Products formed from the methods disclosed herein may include inks, adhesives, coatings, sealants, reactive moldings, fibers, films, sheets, medical polymers, composites, laminates and the like. Exemplary polymerizable compositions and products formed therefrom are environmentally sustainable, environmentally benign and/or biologically benign.
US09181363B2	Process for preparing novel copolymers with a fluoropolymer backbone comprising polyoxyalkylene pendant chains The invention relates to novel copolymers and to an associated preparation method, comprising recurrent units bearing a pendant chain of the polyoxyalkylene type.
US09181360B2	Polymers prepared by ring opening / cross metathesis This invention relates to a process for producing a polymer of a cyclic olefin and a linear mono-olefin, the process comprising contacting at least one C5 based cyclic olefin with at least one linear mono-olefin having from two to twenty carbon atoms in the presence of an alkene metathesis catalyst, and the polymer so produced.
US09181359B2	Method of production of ethylene-based polymer particles and stretch-molded article obtained from ethylene-based polymer particles A method of production of ethylene-based polymer particles includes the steps of: homopolymerizing ethylene or copolymerizing ethylene and a linear or branched α-olefin having 3 to 20 carbon atoms in the presence of an olefin polymerization catalyst including: (A) fine particles having an average particle diameter greater than or equal to 1 nm and less than or equal to 300 nm obtained at least by the following two steps: (Step 1) causing contact between a metal halide and an alcohol in a hydrocarbon solvent; (Step 2) causing contact between a component obtained by (Step 1) and an organoaluminum compound and/or an organoaluminumoxy compound; and (B) a transition metal compound represented in General Formula (I) or (II), and (E) an intrinsic viscosity [η] of the ethylene-based polymer particles, measured in decalin at 135° C., is from 5 to 50 dL/g.
US09181357B2	Solution process for the production of EP(D)M elastomers and polymerisation reactor for use in said process The invention describes a process for the production of EP(D)M in solution in a stirred reactor (CSTR) in which the reaction bath is kept in a boiling condition at a temperature of between 40 and 60° C. and at a pressure of between 0.6 and 1.3 MPa, and in which from 40% to 80% of the reaction heat is removed by boiling the reaction bath and the remaining reaction heat is removed by subcooling the fluids recycled to the reactor. The reactor is provided with a stirring system with three impellers, a device for distribution of the recycled fluids at the bottom of the reactor and a gamma ray level control device.
US09181349B2	Dual variable region antibody-like binding proteins having cross-over binding region orientation The invention provides antibody-like binding proteins comprising four polypeptide chains that form four antigen binding sites, wherein each pair of polypeptides forming an antibody-like binding protein possesses dual variable domains having a cross-over orientation. The invention also provides methods for making such antigen-like binding proteins.
US09181346B2	Composition comprising antibody that binds to domain II of HER2 and acidic variants thereof A composition comprising a main species HER2 antibody that binds to domain II of HER2 and acidic variants thereof is described. Pharmaceutical formulations comprising the composition, and therapeutic uses for the composition are also disclosed.
US09181345B2	Methods of treating lupus The present invention encompasses auto-antibodies associated with autoimmune disorders. The auto-antibodies may be used, for example, in methods of treating patients, methods of diagnosing patients, methods of monitoring disease progression of patients, and methods of prognosing patients.
US09181344B2	Use of effector-function-deficient antibodies for treatment of auto-immune diseases The invention relates to the treatment of autoimmune diseases and disorders, in particular myasthenia gravis, by administration of effector-function-deficient antibodies, wherein said effector-function-deficient antibodies are capable of competing with one or more of the auto-antibodies involved in mediating the antibody-mediated auto-immune disease or disorder for binding to a target auto-antigen.
US09181343B2	Antibody specific for CD22 and methods of use thereof The present disclosure provides antibodies specific for an epitope present on CD22. The antibodies are useful in various treatment, diagnostic, and monitoring applications, which are also provided.
US09181342B2	PD-1 specific antibodies and uses thereof One aspect of the present disclosure provides antibodies that can act as agonists of PD-1, thereby modulating immune responses regulated by PD-1. Another aspect of the disclosure provides compositions comprising PD-1 specific antibodies and their use in methods of down regulating the immune response. These methods can be practiced on any subject, including humans or animals. Anti-PD-1 antibodies disclosed herein may be used, in another aspect of the invention, to detect PD-1 or its fragments in a biological sample. The amount of PD-1 detected may be correlated with the expression level of PD-1, and associated with the activation status of immune cells (e.g., activated T cells, B cells, and/or monocytes) in the subject.
US09181341B2	Anti-KIR3D antibodies The present invention provides antigen-binding proteins capable of binding to KIR3D polypeptides. The antibodies have increased activity in the treatment of disorders characterized by KIR3DL2-expressing cells, particularly CD4+ T cells, including malignancies such as Mycosis Fungoides and Sézary Syndrome.
US09181332B2	Anti-A(β) oligomer humanized antibody An anti-Aβ oligomer humanized antibody which does not bind to Aβ monomers and specifically binds only to Aβ oligomers; an anti-cognitive dysfunction agent, an agent for treating Alzheimer's disease, an agent for suppressing formation of neuritic plaque and an inhibitor of formation of Aβ amyloid fiber comprising the antibody as an active ingredient; a method for at least one of preventing and treating cognitive dysfunction or Alzheimer's disease, comprising the step of administering the antibody; and a method for suppressing progression of Alzheimer's disease, comprising the step of administering the antibody.
US09181328B2	Human monoclonal antibodies broadly protective against influenza B virus and methods of using the same Materials and methods are provided for treating influenza B infections in humans. Anti-human influenza virus monoclonal antibodies and antigen-binding fragments thereof having a neutralization activity against a human influenza B virus are provided. Methods for producing anti-human influenza B virus monoclonal antibodies are also provided. The antibodies and antigen-binding fragments thereof can be effective against a wide range of influenza B viral strains. Methods of inhibiting or treating a human influenza B infection are provided. The anti-influenza B therapeutics can also be used to manufacture medicaments effective against influenza B infections, to detect human influenza B in a human subject, for use in pharmaceutical compositions, and for use in kits for at least one of the prevention, the treatment, and the detection of human influenza B in a human subject.
US09181327B2	Anti-HIV domain antibodies and method of making and using same The invention provides single domain antibodies and derivatives thereof that bind antigens of interest, which are stable, soluble, and do not tend to aggregate. The invention also provides methods for constructing a dAb library and methods for screening dAb libraries to identify the dAb of the invention. The invention also provide methods of treating or preventing conditions by antigen neutralization by administering the dAbs of the invention.
US09181323B2	Method for preparing a concentrate of factor XI The invention concerns a concentrate of human Factor XI having high specific activity prepared using a method comprising a filtration-adsorption step and a chromatography step on cation exchange resin. The concentrate obtained is fully adapted for therapeutic use as substitution therapy in cases of Factor XI deficiency.
US09181318B2	Method of screening a drug such as insulin secretagogue The screening method of the present invention is useful for screening drugs such as insulin secretagogues having an insulin secretagogue activity with minimized side effects (hypoglycemia induction, etc.). The transformant in which a polynucleotide encoding the fusion protein used for the screening method is introduced, the screening kit comprising the transformant, etc. are also useful for screening excellent drugs.
US09181317B2	Methods and compositions based on diphtheria toxin-interleukin-3 conjugates The present invention provides methods for inhibiting interleukin-3 receptor-expressing cells, and, in particular, inhibiting the growth of such cells by using a diphtheria toxin-human interleukin-3 conjugate (DT-IL3) that is toxic to cells expressing the interleukin-3 receptor. In preferred embodiments, the DT-IL3 conjugate is a fusion protein comprising amino acids 1-388 of diphtheria toxin fused via a peptide linker to full-length, human interleukin-3. In certain embodiments, the methods of the present invention relate to the administration of a DT-IL3 conjugate to inhibit the growth of cancer cells and/or cancer stem cells in humans, which cells express one or more subunits of the interleukin-3 receptor. Exemplary cells include myeloid leukemia cancer stem cells. In other embodiments, the methods of the present invention relate to ex vivo purging of bone marrow or peripheral blood to remove cells that express one or more subunits of the interleukin-3 receptor such that the purged bone marrow or peripheral blood is suitable, e.g., for autologous stem cell transplantation to restore hematopoietic function.
US09181314B2	mTOR ligands and polynucleotides encoding mTOR ligands The invention relates to kinase ligands and polyligands. In particular, the invention relates to ligands, homopolyligands, and heteropolyligands that modulate mTOR activity. The ligands and polyligands are utilized as research tools or as therapeutics. The invention includes linkage of the ligands and polyligands to a cellular localization signal, epitope tag and/or a reporter. The invention also includes polynucleotides encoding the ligands and polyligands.
US09181313B2	Treatment and prevention of malaria There are provided antigens, vectors encoding the antigens, and antibodies and other binding compounds to the antigens and uses thereof in the prevention or treatment of malaria. In particular, compositions are provided comprising a Reticulocyte-binding protein Homologue 5 (PfRH5) antigen having at least 90% identity with SEQ ID NO: 1, or a fragment thereof; or which comprise a viral vector that expresses PfRH5 antigen having at least 90% identity with SEQ ID NO: 2, or a fragment thereof.
US09181312B2	Vault complexes for facilitating biomolecule delivery The invention relates to compositions of vault complexes containing recombinant membrane lytic proteins, such as an adenovirus protein VI lytic domain, and methods of using the vault complexes to facilitate delivery and entry of a biomolecule into a cell or subject.
US09181310B2	Use of bacteriophage outer membrane breaching proteins expressed in plants for the control of gram-negative bacteria The present invention provides compositions and methods for killing or suppressing growth of Gram-negative bacteria that infect, infest or cause disease in plants, including pathogenic, saprophytic and opportunistic microbes that cause disease in plants and food borne illness in people or in animal feed.
US09181306B2	Insertion of foreign genes in rubella virus and their stable expression in a live, attenuated viral vaccine Disclosed herein are isolated rubella viral vector constructs that include a rubella non-structural protein open reading frame (ORF) with an in-frame deletion, a rubella structural protein ORF, and a heterologous antigenic insert. In one example, the in-frame deletion within the rubella non-structural protein ORF is an in-frame deletion between two NotI restriction enzyme sites. In some examples, the heterologous antigenic insert is positioned within the rubella non-structural protein ORF. In other examples, the heterologous antigenic insert is positioned within the rubella structural protein ORF. Exemplary antigenic inserts include a Gag antigenic insert, a gp41 antigenic insert or a gp120 antigenic insert. Also disclosed are uses of the isolated rubella viral vector, such as to induce an immune response to HIV-1, testing sensitivity to neutralizing antibodies, or screening antiviral drugs (such as protease inhibitors).
US09181300B2	Polypeptides for treating and/or limiting influenza infection Polypeptides are disclosed herein, which recognize and are strong binders to Influenza A hemagglutinin and can be used, for example, to treat and/or limit development of an influenza infection.
US09181299B2	Compositions for detecting an infection by an HIV-1 virus The present invention relates to an immunogenic composition comprising an antigenic peptide of formula (I) below: Nt-S-X1-X2-X3-K-X4-Ct (I) [SEQ ID No 1], wherein—Nt consists of a peptide having from 0 to 50 amino acids in length, —Ct consists of a peptide having from 0 to 50 amino acids in length, —each of X1 to X4 consists of an amino acid residue, wherein: —(i) X1 means the specific amino acid W or (ii) X1 means any amino acid residue excepted W, —(i) X2 means the specific amino acid S or (ii) X2 means any amino acid residue excepted S, —(i) X3 means the specific amino acid N or (ii) X3 means any amino acid residue excepted N, —(i) X4 means the specific amino acid S or (ii) X4 means any amino acid residue excepted S, with the proviso that—three out of the four amino acid residues X1, X2, X3 and X4 mean the specific amino acid defined in their respective meaning (i) above, and—the remaining amino acid residue among X1 to X4 means any amino acid residue excepted the specific amino acid residue defined in its meaning (i), for preventing and/or treating an infection of an individual with an HIV-1 virus.
US09181297B1	Cysteine arylation directed by a genetically encodable π-clamp Disclosed are methods of single-site-specific cysteine modification on peptide/protein molecules under physiologically relevant conditions. This process features several significant advantages over existing methods of peptide modification, such as specificity towards thiols over other nucleophiles (e.g., amines, hydroxyls), excellent functional group tolerance, and mild reaction conditions. Especially important is the specificity observed for thiols appearing in an X-Cys-Pro-X sequence over other thiols or disulfides, where X is Phe, Trp, or Tyr; under the inventive conditions, other cysteines or reactive functional groups on the same peptide/protein chain are not functionalized.
US09181295B2	Cationic lipids with various head groups for oligonucleotide delivery The instant invention provides for novel cationic lipids that can be used in combination with other lipid components such as cholesterol and PEG-lipids to form lipid nanoparticles with siRNA, to facilitate the cellular uptake and endosomal escape, and to knockdown target mRNA both in vitro and in vivo.
US09181294B2	Nucleoside analogues for the treatment of a viral infection, and method for evaluating the sensitivity to said treatment The present invention describes the use of nucleoside analogs for the treatment of viral infections, in particular of an HIV infection, and also compositions comprising at least one of these analogs, and a method for evaluating the sensitivity to said treatment.
US09181293B2	Method for the synthesis of aspalathin and analogues thereof A method of synthesising Aspalathin and its analogues or derivatives is disclosed. The method comprises synthesising a compound of formula 1 or its analogues or derivatives: wherein each of R1, R2, R3, R4, R5, R6, R7, R8, R9 and R10 is independently selected from the group consisting of —H, —OH, hydrocarbyl groups, saccharide moieties and —OR15; R15 is selected from the group consisting of hydrogen, a hydrocarbyl group (e.g. methoxy or ethoxy), an acyl group and a benzyl group; and R11, R12, R13 and R14 are independently selected from the group consisting of —H, hydrocarbyl groups, saccharide moieties, an acyl group and a benzyl group. The method comprises the step of coupling a sugar to a dihydrochalcone, chalcone or flavanone, or coupling the sugar to an intermediate for producing a dihydrochalcone, chalcone or flavanone followed by coupling of the sugar-intermediate adduct to a further intermediate for producing a dihydrochalcone, chalcone or flavanone, and transforming the product thereof into a compound of formula 1 or an analogue or derivative thereof.
US09181291B2	Tannin inhibitors of HIV The invention provides a method to prevent or treat HIV-infection with synthetic tannins, and pharmaceutical compositions comprising synthetic tannins.
US09181289B2	Metal complexes The present invention relates to metal complexes and to electronic devices, in particular organic electroluminescent devices, comprising these metal complexes.
US09181287B2	Regioregular copolymers and methods for making same Methods for producing regioregular poly(aryl ethynyl)-poly(aryl vinyl) and monomers for preparing the regioregular poly(aryl ethynyl)-poly(aryl vinyl) polymers are described herein. Regioregular poly(aryl ethynyl)-poly(aryl vinyl) are useful for electronics, among other things.
US09181286B2	Pantothenate derivatives for the treatment of neurologic disorders The present disclosure relates to pantothenate derivatives for the treatment of neurologic disorders (such as pantothenate kinase-associated neurodegeneration), pharmaceutical compositions containing such compounds, and their use in treatment of neurologic disorders.
US09181270B2	Method of making sulfide compounds According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a method of making sulfide compounds using Scheme 1 is disclosed. In Scheme 1, X1, X2, and X3 are independently selected from the group consisting of F, Cl, Br, and I; Y is selected from the group consisting of Cl, Br, and I; and R1 and R2 are independently selected from the group consisting of alkyl, cycloalkyl, alkenyl, cycloalkenyl, alkynyl, cycloalkynyl, alkyl, aryl, and heteroaryl, wherein R1 and R2 may be further substituted, and wherein R1 is optionally covalently linked to R2 and the reaction is intramolecular. In some embodiments, no catalyst is used in Scheme 1.
US09181269B2	Enantiomers of fluconazole analogues containing thieno-[2,-3-D]pyrimidin-4(3H)-one moiety as antifungal agents The present invention discloses novel enantiomeric antifungal compounds of Formula (1a) and Formula (1b) containing thieno-[2,3-d]Jpyrimidin-4(3H)-one moiety and pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof, method of preparing these compounds, the use of these compounds in prevention and treatment of fungal infections, and pharmaceutical preparations containing these compounds.
US09181268B2	Anhydrate of tiotropium bromide The present invention relates to a novel form of anhydrous tiotropium bromide, processes for the preparation of anhydrous tiotropium bromide, pharmaceutical compositions comprising anhydrous tiotropium bromide and uses of the compositions.
US09181263B2	Inhibitors of bruton's tyrosine kinase Described herein are irreversible kinase inhibitor compounds, exemplified by compounds of the following structure: methods for synthesizing such irreversible inhibitors, and methods for using such irreversible inhibitors in the treatment of a disease such as cancer.
US09181262B2	Crystalline forms of a dipeptidyl peptidase-IV inhibitors Novel crystalline forms of (2R,3S,5R)-2-(2,5-Difluorophenyl)-5-[2-(methylsulfonyl)-2,6-dihydropyrrolo[3,4-c]pyrazol-5(4H)-yl]tetrahydro-2H-pyran-3-amine are potent inhibitors of dipeptidyl peptidase-IV and are useful for the treatment of non-insulin dependent (Type 2) diabetes mellitus. The invention also relates to pharmaceutical compositions containing these novel forms, processes to prepare these forms and their pharmaceutical compositions as well as uses thereof for the treatment of Type 2 diabetes.
US09181261B2	TrkA kinase inhibitors, compositions and methods thereof The present invention is directed to benzyl urea compounds, which are tropomyosin-related kinase (Trk) family protein kinase inhibitors, and hence may be useful in the treatment of pain, inflammation, cancer, restenosis, atherosclerosis, psoriasis, thrombosis, a disease, disorder, injury, or malfunction relating to dysmyelination or demyelination or a disease or disorder associated with abnormal activities of nerve growth factor (NGF) receptor Trk-A, Trk-B and/or Trk-C.
US09181260B2	Crystalline form of sitagliptin sulfate A novel crystalline form of sitagliptin sulfate is provided. In addition, a method for obtaining the crystalline form, pharmaceutical compositions comprising the novel crystalline form and the crystalline form for use as a medicament are provided.
US09181259B2	Substituted pyrrolo[1,2-a]piperazines and pyrrolo[1,2-a][1,4]diazepines as neurokinin 1 receptor antagonists The present invention relates to a compound according to formula (A) wherein n is 1 or 2; R1 and R2 are independently hydrogen, C1-4 alkyl, C1-4 haloalkyl, C1-4 alkoxy, CD3 or halogen; R3 is hydrogen, C(═O)OR7 or C1-4 alkyl optionally substituted with hydroxy or NR8R9; R4 is hydrogen or oxo; R5 and R6 are independently hydrogen, hydroxy, NR8R9, C(═O)R7, C(═O)OR7, C(═O)NR8R9, C1-4 alkyl, wherein said C1-4 alkyl is optionally substituted with hydroxy, NR8R9 or a 5- or 6-membered heterocyclic ring, wherein said 5- or 6-membered heterocyclic ring is optionally substituted with C1-4 alkyl or C(═O)R7; or R5 and R6, together with the carbon atom to which they are attached, form ═CH2 or a 5- or 6-membered heterocycloalkyl, wherein said heterocycloalkyl is optionally substituted with C1-4 alkyl; R7 is hydrogen or C1-4 alkyl; R8 and R9 are independently hydrogen or C1-4 alkyl, or R8 and R9, together with the nitrogen atom to which they are attached, form a 5- or 6-membered heterocyclic ring, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt or solvate thereof. The invention relates further to intermediates for the preparation of said compounds, to said compounds for use in therapy, to pharmaceutical compositions comprising said compounds, to methods of treating or ameliorating pruritic dermal diseases or conditions with said compounds, and to the use of said compounds in the manufacture of medicaments.
US09181255B2	Fused heteroaromatic pyrrolidinones as SYK inhibitors Disclosed are compounds of Formula 1, and pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof, wherein G, L1, L2, R1, R2, R3, and R4 are defined in the specification. This disclosure also relates to materials and methods for preparing compounds of Formula 1, pharmaceutical compositions containing them, and their use for treating disorders, diseases, and conditions involving the immune system and inflammation, including rheumatoid arthritis, hematological malignancies, epithelial cancers (i.e., carcinomas), and other disorders, diseases, and conditions for which inhibition of SYK is indicated.
US09181254B2	Method for producing sepiapterin and tetrahydrolactoylpterin To provide a method for producing sepiapterin, lactoylpterin or tetrahydrolactoylpterin.Sepiapterin, lactoylpterin and tetrahydrolactoylpterin are produced at high yield through the following reaction scheme.
US09181252B2	N1/N2-lactam acetyl-CoA carboxylase inhibitors The invention provides a compound of Formula (I) or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; wherein G is R1, R2 and R3 are as described herein; pharmaceutical compositions thereof; and the use thereof in treating diseases, conditions or disorders modulated by the inhibition of an acetyl-CoA carboxylase enzyme(s) in an animal.
US09181251B2	Anti-malarial compounds from marine natural products Novel compositions and methods for the treatment and prevention of malaria are disclosed herein.
US09181239B2	Pyridopyrimidinone inhibitors of kinases Compounds of formula (I), and pharmaceutical acceptable salts thereof, which inhibit the activity of kinases such as Wee-1 kinase are described. Also described are methods of making the compounds, compositions containing the compounds, and methods of treatment using the compounds.
US09181230B2	Morpholine compounds and uses thereof The present invention relates to compounds of formula wherein R1 and R2 are as described herein. Compounds of the invention are useful in the treatment and/or prophylaxis of diseases associated with TAAR modulation.
US09181225B2	Targeted delivery using tissue-specific peptidomimetic ligands Compositions and methods for tissue-specific targeted delivery of therapeutic agents through the use of tissue-specific peptidomimetic ligands are disclosed herein. The ligand comprises a composition of formula A-scaffold-A′ and one or more hydrophobic anchors covalently linked to the scaffold. The A and A′ compounds linked to the scaffold comprise monovalent peptidomimetic compounds wherein each monovalent peptidomimetic compound is selected from the group consisting of fragments IKs, GKs, IDs, GSs, GTs, VSs, TKs, KTs, ARs, KIs, KEs, AEs, GRs, YSs, IRs, and morpholino.
US09181224B2	Bifunctional molecules with antibody-recruiting and entry inhibitory activity against the human immunodeficiency virus The present invention is directed to new bifunctional compounds and methods for treating HIV infections. The bifunctional small molecules, generally referred to as ARM-H′ function through orthogonal pathways, by inhibiting the gp120-CD4 interaction, and by recruiting anti-DNP antibodies to gp120-expressing cells, thereby preventing cell infection and spread of HIV. It has been shown that ARM-H's bind to gp120 and gp-120 expressing cells competitively with CD4, thereby decreasing viral infectivity as shown by an MT-2 cell assay, the binding leading to formation of a ternary complex by recruiting anti-DNP antibodies to bind thereto, the antibodies present in the ternary complex promoting the complement-dependent destruction of the gp120-expressing cells. Compounds and methods are described herein.
US09181222B2	Protein kinase C inhibitors and uses thereof This disclosure concerns compounds which are useful as inhibitors of protein kinase C (PKC) and are thus useful for treating a variety of diseases and disorders that are mediated or sustained through the activity of PKC. This disclosure also relates to pharmaceutical compositions comprising these compounds, methods of using these compounds in the treatment of various diseases and disorders, processes for preparing these compounds and intermediates useful in these processes.
US09181221B2	Chemical compounds, compositions and methods for kinase modulation Substituted isoquinolinone compounds and pharmaceutical compositions that modulate kinase activity, including PI3 kinase activity, and compounds, pharmaceutical compositions, and methods of treatment of diseases and conditions associated with kinase activity, including PI3 kinase activity, are described herein.
US09181219B2	Compounds of modulating TRPV3 function The present application relates to compounds and methods for treating pain and other conditions related to TRPV3.
US09181215B2	Manufacturing process for pyrimidine derivatives The invention relates to new crystalline forms of processes for manufacturing a compound of formula 5, or a stereoisomer, tautomer or a salt thereof, wherein the substituents are as defined in the specification. The invention further relates to new manufacturing processes for specific solid forms of Compound A and its salts, to such solid forms and to use of said solid forms for the therapeutic treatment of warm-blooded animals.
US09181212B2	Method of producing beraprost An improved method is described for making single isomers of synthetic benzoprostacyclin analog compounds, in particular the pharmacologically active 314-d isomer of beraprost. In contrast to the prior art, the method is stereoselective and requires fewer steps than the known methods for making these compounds.
US09181210B2	Processes for making furfurals Processes for making furfural and 5-hydroxymethylfurfural from sugars are provided. The processes can be carried out using a batch process or a continuous mode of operation. An aqueous sugar solution is pressurized with CO2, thereby producing carbonic acid in situ that catalyzes the dehydration reaction to produce furfural from C5 sugars and 5-methylhydroxyfurfural from C6 sugars.
US09181209B2	Process for the production of furfural Furfural is produced by mixing an aqueous feedstock solution containing C5 sugar and/or C6 sugar with a heated, high boiling, water-miscible solvent, such as sulfolane, and a soluble acid catalyst. Furfural product and water are distilled off through a multistage distillation column, leaving non-volatile solvent behind. Typical furfural yields with sulfolane as the reaction solvent are about 80% at as high as 99% conversion. Also, certain by-products (e.g., humins) solubilized in the reaction solvent can be precipitated by addition of water or aqueous feedstock solution and then removed by filtration, thereby providing a convenient and effective way of removing these undesirable byproducts from the reaction mixture.
US09181208B2	3,6-anhydro-L-galactose dehydrogenase acting on 3,6-anhydro-L-galactose, and production of 3,6-anhydrogalactonic acid by using the enzyme The present invention relates to a novel 3,6-anhydro-L-galactose dehydrogenase and to a novel compound produced therefrom. More specifically, provided is a 3,6-anhydro-L-galactose dehydrogenase which can produce 3,6-anhydrogalactonic acid of a novel type by metabolizing 3,6-anhydro-L-galactose.
US09181206B2	Dual-acting oxazole antihypertensive agents In one aspect, the invention relates to compounds having the formula: wherein: Ar, Z, R3, R4 and R5 are as defined in the specification, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof. These compounds have AT1 receptor antagonist activity and neprilysin inhibition activity. In another aspect, the invention relates to pharmaceutical compositions comprising such compounds; methods of using such compounds; and process and intermediates for preparing such compounds.
US09181204B2	Chemical compounds capable of complexing at least one metal element and a coordination complex based on these compounds The present invention relates to compounds of formula (I): A-T-Z (I) in which: the group A is a bipyridine group capable of complexing at least one metal element; the group T is a triazole group directly bound to the group A; and the group Z is a halogen atom, a nitro group, a cyano group, an alkyl group, an aryl group, a heterocyclic group, a group of formula —NR1R2, a group of formula —SR1, a group of formula —S(═O)2(OR1), a group of formula —O—S(═O)2(OR1), a group of formula —O—S(═O)2(R1), a group of formula —S(═O)(OR1), a group of formula —S(═O)(R1), a group of formula —S(═O)2R1, a group of formula —PR1R2, a group of formula —P(═O)(OR1)(OR2), a group of formula —O—P(═O)(OR1)(OR2), a group of formula —O—P(═O)(OR1)(R2), a group of formula —OR1 or a group of formula —CO—R1.
US09181203B2	Substituted pyrazino[2,3-d]isooxazoles as intermediates for the synthesis of substituted pyrazinecarbonitriles and substituted pyrazinecarboxamides The object of the present invention is to provide a compound which is useful as a production intermediate of pyrazine carboxamide derivative such as 6-fluoro-3-hydroxy-2-pyrazine carboxamide. The present invention provides a pyrazino[2,3-d]isoxazole derivative represented by the formula (I): wherein X represents a halogen atom, a hydroxyl group or a sulfamoyloxy group, and Y represents —C(═O)R or —CN; wherein R represents a hydrogen atom, an alkoxy group an aryloxy group, an alkyl group, an aryl group or an amino group.
US09181200B2	Pyrimidinedione compounds Provided are novel pyrimidine dione compounds and pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof, that are useful for the treatment of hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) and conditions associated with left ventricular hypertrophy or diastolic dysfunction. The synthesis and characterization of the compounds and pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof, are described, as well as methods for treating HCM and other forms of heart disease.
US09181196B2	Pharmaceutical compounds Compounds of formula (I): wherein: A, R, T, Q, L, Z, G, X and A′ are as defined in the description. B and D, equal to or different from each other, are selected between heteroaryl and aryl, wherein at least one of the hydrogen atoms of said heteroaryl and aryl are substituted with groups selected from SO3−, SO3H, COO−, COOH, and one or more of the other hydrogen atoms of said heteroaryl and aryl are optionally substituted as reported in the description.
US09181195B2	Sigma receptor inhibitors The invention refers to compounds of general formula (I) having pharmacological activity towards the sigma receptor, to processes of preparation of such compounds, to pharmaceutical compositions comprising them, and to their use for the treatment and or prophylaxis of a disease in which the sigma receptor is involved.
US09181187B2	Therapeutic agent for urinary excretion disorder Disclosed is an EP1 antagonist, particularly a compound represented by the formula (I): wherein all symbols are as defined in the description, a salt thereof, a solvate thereof or a prodrug thereof. The compound, a salt thereof, a solvate thereof or a prodrug thereof is effective for prevention, treatment and/or symptom improvement of a dysuria (e.g., slow stream, splitting or spraying of the urine stream, intermittent stream, hesitancy, straining to void or terminal dribble).
US09181185B2	Heteroaryl compounds as sodium channel blockers The invention relates to aryl substituted compounds of Formula (I): and pharmaceutically acceptable salts, prodrugs, or solvates thereof, wherein Het, G, A, R, and n are defined as set forth in the specification. The invention is also directed to the use of compounds of Formula I to treat a disorder responsive to the blockade of sodium channels. Compounds of the present invention are especially useful for treating pain.
US09181183B2	Prostaglandin D synthase inhibitory piperidine compounds The present invention provides a piperidine compound represented by Formula (I) (wherein X1, X2, X2, A, B and N are as defined in the Description); or a salt thereof.
US09181182B2	S1P receptors modulators The invention relates to novel compounds that have S1P receptor modulating activity and, preferably, apoptotic activity and/or anti proliferative activity against cancer cells and other cell types. Further, the invention relates to a pharmaceutical comprising at least one compound of the invention for the treatment of diseases and/or conditions caused by or associated with inappropriate S1P receptor modulating activity or expression, for example, cancer. A further aspect of the invention relates to the use of a pharmaceutical comprising at least one compound of the invention for the manufacture of a medicament for the treatment of diseases and/or conditions caused by or associated with inappropriate S1P receptor modulating activity or expression such as cancer.
US09181180B2	Method for producing polythiol compound, polymerizable composition for optical material, and uses thereof Provided is a method for producing a polythiol compound, comprising: a step for reacting a polyalcohol compound represented by defined formula (4) with thiourea in the presence of hydrogen chloride to obtain an isothiuronium salt; a step for adding, while maintaining a reaction solution containing the isothiuronium salt thus obtained at a temperature of 20° C. to 60° C., aqueous ammonia to the reaction solution within 80 minutes, thereby hydrolyzing the isothiuronium salt to obtain a polythiol compound containing, as a main component, one kind or two or more kinds selected from the group consisting of compounds represented by defined formulae (6) to (8); and a step for adding hydrochloric acid which is a concentration of 30% to 36% to the solution containing the polythiol compound thus obtained, washing the solution at a temperature of 30° C. to 55° C. to purify the polythiol compound.
US09181179B2	Method for producing polythiol compound, polymerizable composition for optical material, and uses thereof Provided is a method for producing a polythiol compound, comprising: a step for reacting 2-mercaptoethanol with a defined epihalohydrin compound at a temperature of 10° C. to 50° C. to obtain a defined polyalcohol compound; a step for reacting the polyalcohol compound thus obtained with thiourea in the presence of hydrogen chloride to obtain an isothiuronium salt; a step for adding, while maintaining a reaction solution containing the isothiuronium salt thus obtained at a temperature of 15° C. to 60° C., aqueous ammonia to the reaction solution within 80 minutes, thereby hydrolyzing the isothiuronium salt to obtain a defined polythiol compound; and a step for adding hydrochloric acid which is a concentration of 25% to 36% to the solution containing the polythiol compound thus obtained, washing the solution at a temperature of 10° C. to 50° C. to purify the polythiol compound.
US09181175B2	Process for manufacture and resolution of 2-acylamino-3-diphenylpropanoic acid The invention relates to a novel process, novel process steps and novel intermediates useful in the synthesis of pharmaceutically active compounds, in particular neutral endopeptidase (NEP) inhibitors.
US09181170B2	Method for preparing unsaturated carboxylic acid A method for preparing an unsaturated carboxylic acid comprising (a) preparing an aqueous solution comprising an ammonium salt of hydroxycarboxylic acid and a salt of inorganic acid; (b) contacting the aqueous solution with a cation exchange resin to prepare a conversion aqueous solution comprising a hydroxycarboxylic acid and an inorganic acid; and (c) dehydrating the hydroxycarboxylic acid using the inorganic acid as a catalyst is provided.
US09181165B2	Process for producing phenol and cyclohexanone In a process for separating a mixture comprising cyclohexanone and phenol, at least a portion of the mixture is distilled in the presence of a solvent including at least two alcoholic hydroxyl groups attached to non-adjacent saturated carbon atoms, water, and in the presence or absence of a hemiketal defined by the formula (I) or the formula (II): wherein R1, the same or different at each occurrence, is independently an alkylene group having from 2 to 10 carbon atoms, R2 is an alkylene group having from 4 to 10 carbon atoms and/or R3 is hydrogen or the following group: and in the presence or absence of an enol-ether derived from the hemiketal defined by the formula (I) or the formula (II), wherein the total concentration of the hemiketal and enol-ether, expressed in term of weight percentage of the total weight of the feed to the distilling step, is at most 0.01%.
US09181164B1	Method of preparing Z-alkene-containing insect pheromones Insect pheromones and pheromone precursors, containing one or more Z-alkenyl groups, are prepared by treating an alkyne with a copper complex, reducing agent, and proton donor in an organic solvent. The pheromones and pheromone precursors are prepared with high stereoselectivity and substantially no over reduction.
US09181159B2	Method for coproducing isobutene and MTBE from tert-butanol mixture in a catalytic distillation column This invention describes a method for co-producing isobutene and methyl tert-butyl ether in a catalytic distillation column, wherein contacting with solid acid catalysts the charged tert-butanol mixture undergoes dehydration and etherification. The mixture of isobutene and methyl tert-butyl ether withdrawn from the column top can be further separated, thus high purity isobutene and fuel-additive methyl tert-butyl ether are obtained.
US09181156B2	Apparatus for producing alcohols from olefins The present invention relates to an apparatus for producing alcohols from olefins, comprising: a hydroformylation reactor wherein aldehydes are produced from olefins; a catalyst/aldehydes separator; a hydrogenation reactor wherein the aldehydes are hydrogenated to produce alcohols; and a distillation column. The hydroformylation reactor is equipped with a distributor plate, which has a broad contact surface for providing sufficient reaction area for reactants such as olefins and synthesis gas, and allows the reaction mixture to circulate and mix sufficiently, which contribute to excellent efficiency in terms of production of aldehydes. In addition, the hydrogenation reactor suppresses sub-reactions to improve the production yield of alcohols.
US09181155B2	Process for synthesis of alcohols Process for the catalytic production of alcohol products, wherein by-products comprising ketone, aldehyde and ester compounds contained in the alcohol product are subjected to hydrogenation with a hydrogen-containing purge gas.
US09181154B2	Method of obtaining a combination of Z and E stereoisomers of hydrofluoroolefins Disclosed are the combinations containing Z and E stereoisomers of hydrofluoroolefins where the more toxic isomer is less than about 30% weight of the combination (vs the sum of Z+E), to minimize the toxicity impact in the applications they will be used for such as cooling and heat fluids, foams blowing agents or solvents. Also disclosed are means to obtain combinations containing Z and E stereoisomers of hydrofluoroolefins.
US09181153B2	Method for producing (E)-1-chloro-3,3,3-trifluoropropene The present invention provides a process for purifying a (E)-1-chloro-3,3,3-trifluoropropene composition (OF-1233E composition) in which at hydrogen fluoride and 2-chloro-1,1,1,3,3-pentafluoropropane are contained by bringing the (E)-1-chloro-3,3,3-trifluoropropene composition into contact with a weak base and a method for producing (E)-1-chloro-3,3,3-trifluoropropene composition by distilling the (E)-1-chloro-3,3,3-trifluoropropene composition obtained by such a purification process. This makes it possible to efficiently produce OF-1233E by removing the hydrogen fluoride from the OF-1233E composition, without generating any new component difficult to separate by distillation, and subjecting the resulting composition to distillation.
US09181149B2	Regeneration of catalysts for dehydrating alkanes The invention relates to a method for dehydrating alkanes, wherein the alkane is guided in a reactor for the dehydrogenation of alkanes via a catalyst, and the process may be carried out adiabatically or non-adiabatically, and the catalyst for dehydration can be regenerated after the reaction phase by means of transferring a gas, wherein said gas is guided via the catalyst after a short rinsing phase using water vapor, and said regeneration gas consists of a gas containing oxygen and of steam, and after regeneration the catalyst is freed of the gas containing oxygen by transferring steam, wherein the duration of the transfer of a gas containing oxygen is significantly reduced as compared to common methods and represents 70% or less of the total regeneration time, and the catalyst has an increased selectivity for forming alkene by means of carrying out the regeneration at a constant activity, and the catalyst is comprised of a metal of the group of platinum metals or group VIB of the periodic table of the elements, which is applied to a carrier in form of a compound or in elementary form, which substantially consists of oxides of the elements of tin, zinc, or aluminum.
US09181144B2	Diesel and jet fuels based on the oligomerization of butene A renewable biofuel based on a highly efficient batch catalysis methodology for conversion of 1-butene to a new class of potential jet fuel blends. By tuning the catalyst and then using the dimer produced, the carbon use is about 95% or greater. This latter point will be particularly important in the future, where the source of raw materials (i.e., biomass/biofeedstock) is limited.
US09181142B2	Plant based monomers and polymers The preparation of cyclohexadienes from one or more plant oils is disclosed. The cyclohexadiene can be used to form polymers or derivatized to form other monomers that can be used to form polymeric materials.
US09181141B2	Propellant charge A propellant charge, a priming cap including the propellant charge and a weapons training system including the priming cap are characterized in that the propellant charge contains a soft friction agent. The propellant charge can contain at least one impact-sensitive explosive substance as a heavy-metal-free priming compound, and the soft friction agent can be marble, calcite, dolomite, soft carbonates and/or mixtures thereof.
US09181138B2	Methods and systems for stabilizing organic material The present application relates to systems and methods for processing organic material. The methods may include extraction of biochemical nutrients from organic material, such as food scraps. The method can include comminuting the organic material to form a slurry from components comprising liquid and organic material; combining the slurry with microorganisms, such as a yeast, under aerobic conditions to form a mixture of the slurry and yeast; aerating the mixture; and forming a biomass and a nutrient-rich broth, in which the biochemical nutrients are stabilized and anabolized. The systems may, in some embodiments, be configured to perform the methods of processing organic materials.
US09181132B2	Gypsum slurries and boards and methods of making the same A slurry for manufacturing gypsum board comprises calcined gypsum, water, a foaming agent, and a coalescing agent. The foaming agent imparts a plurality of bubbles in the slurry. Typically, a foam is pre-generated with the foaming agent and the foam is used to form the slurry such that the foam imparts the plurality of bubbles in the slurry. The coalescing agent coalesces the plurality of bubbles imparted by the foam. Typically, the coalescing agent coalesces a plurality of small and partially joined bubbles imparted by the foam to create larger and more discrete bubbles. A gypsum board and method of forming the slurry and the gypsum board are also disclosed. The gypsum board comprises a gypsum layer formed from the slurry. The gypsum layer defines a plurality of bubbles dispersed therein, which are imparted by the foam and coalescing agent of the slurry.
US09181130B2	Redispersible polymer powder compositions prepared from styrene butadiene-based latex for dry mix formulations Redispersible polymer powder compositions which include a polyglycol in admixture with a redispersible polymer powder (RDP), which powder includes a codried mixture of a carboxylated, water insoluble film-forming styrene butadiene polymer and a colloidal stabilizer, results in cement compositions having unexpectedly superior overall bonding strength and adhesion after water immersion. Use of the polyglycol provides good workability or ease of troweling during application. In addition, the RDP composition, which includes the RDP and the polyglycol, provides the cement-based composition with excellent abrasion resistance, surface appearance, and color. Also, the RDP composition provides for at least a 30% reduction, for example a 50% or more reduction in the amount of retarder or retardant employed in the dry mix formulation for cement compositions, such as self leveling flooring compounds or compositions, and cement-based tile adhesives.
US09181125B2	Method and apparatus for optical fiber coloring A method of coloring optical fibers during the optical fiber drawing that includes the steps of feeding a natural fiber coating material and a colorant to a mixer; mixing the natural fiber coating material and the colorant in the mixer to obtain a colored coating material; and supplying the colored coating material to a coating die. The feeding step includes exerting on the natural fiber coating a first gas pressure variable with at least one fiber drawing parameter; and exerting on the colorant a second gas pressure variable with at least one fiber drawing parameter.
US09181124B2	Transparent conductive oxide coating for thin film photovoltaic applications and methods of making the same The present invention provides transparent conductive oxide (TCO) thin films with improved optical and electrical properties and methods of making the same. More specifically, the invention provides on-line processes for producing TCO thin films that allow for improvements in optical properties and post-production improvements in electrical properties of the TCO.
US09181112B2	Method and apparatus for treating selenium-containing water A method and an apparatus for treating coal gasification wastewater containing selenium and ions of a metal nobler than titanium eluted from a noble metal catalyst in a catalytic wet oxidation treatment using the noble metal catalyst, the method includes a pretreatment process removing the ions of the metal nobler than titanium and a selenium reduction process contacting the coal gasification wastewater with a mixture of metallic titanium and a simple metal baser than metallic titanium whereby a portion of the simple metal baser than metallic titanium is eluted, and the selenium in the coal gasification wastewater becomes reduced.
US09181108B2	Method for decontamination of a liquid effluent including one or more radioactive chemical elements by treatment in a fluidized bed A method for decontamination of a liquid effluent including one or more radioactive chemical elements to be eliminated is disclosed. According to one aspect, the method includes The method includes mixing, in a first zone of a reactor, solid particles with the liquid which are able, by co-precipitation, adsorption and/or ion exchange, to capture and retain the radioactive chemical elements. The solid particles settle in a second zone of the reactor. The solids, including the radioactive chemical elements, are then separated from the remaining liquid.
US09181099B2	Purification of carbon nanotubes using agarose column and density gradient ultracentrifugation A method of processing bundles of carbon nanotubes (CNTs). Bundles of CNTs are put into a solution and unbundled using sonication and one or more surfactants that break apart and disperse at least some of the bundles into the solution such that it contains individual semiconducting CNTs, individual metallic CNTs, and remaining CNT bundles. The individual CNTs are separated from each other using agarose bead column separation using sodium dodecyl sulfate as a surfactant. Remaining CNT bundles are then separated out by performing density-gradient ultracentrifugation.
US09181098B2	Preparation of array of long carbon nanotubes and fibers therefrom An array of carbon nanotubes is prepared by exposing a catalyst structure to a carbon nanotube precursor. Embodiment catalyst structures include one or more trenches, channels, or a combination of trenches and channels. A system for preparing the array includes a heated surface for heating the catalyst structure and a cooling portion that cools gas above the catalyst structure. The system heats the catalyst structure so that the interaction between the precursor and the catalyst structure results in the formation of an array of carbon nanotubes on the catalyst structure, and cools the gas near the catalyst structure and also cools any carbon nanotubes that form on the catalyst structure to prevent or at least minimize the formation of amorphous carbon. Arrays thus formed may be used for spinning fibers of carbon nanotubes.
US09181097B2	Apparatus and methods for safely providing hazardous reactants An apparatus for providing a reactant comprises a reactant space and a reservoir space. The reactant space comprises a chemical complex capable of evolving the reactant when heated. The reservoir space, in turn, is in gas communication with the reactant space. The apparatus is operative to heat the chemical complex when a pressure of the reactant in the reservoir space is below a predetermined set-point, and to cool the chemical complex when the pressure of the reactant in the reservoir space is above the predetermined set-point.
US09181091B2	Porous nanostructure and method of manufacturing the same Provided are a porous nanostructure and a method of manufacturing the same. The porous nanostructure includes a plurality of pores disposed on an exterior surface of a nanostructure, wherein at least a portion of the plurality of pores extend inside the nanostructure.
US09181090B2	Carbon nanotube dispersion and utilization of same The present invention provides a carbon nanotube dispersion, in which carbon nanotubes are uniformly dispersed and a satisfactory dispersed state is maintained over a long period of time, and also inherent properties of carbon nanotubes can be exhibited. The carbon nanotube dispersion contains an alcohol solvent (preferably a lower alcohol having about 1 to 4 carbon atoms) and a polyvinyl acetal resin.
US09181083B2	MEMS devices and methods of forming the same A device includes a substrate, a routing conductive line over the substrate, a dielectric layer over the routing conductive line, and an etch stop layer over the dielectric layer. A Micro-Electro-Mechanical System (MEMS) device has a portion over the etch stop layer. A contact plug penetrates through the etch stop layer and the dielectric layer. The contact plug connects the portion of the MEMS device to the routing conductive line. An escort ring is disposed over the etch stop layer and under the MEMS device, wherein the escort ring encircles the contact plug.
US09181081B2	Electrical component and method of manufacturing the same According to one embodiment, an electrical component comprises a substrate, a functional element formed on the substrate, a first layer which includes through holes, and forms a cavity that stores the functional element on the substrate, and a second layer which is formed on the first layer, and closes the through holes. The first layer includes a first film, a second film on the first film, and a third film on the second film. A Young's modulus of the second film is higher than a Young's modulus of the first film and the third film.
US09181080B2	MEMS microphone with low pressure region between diaphragm and counter electrode A MEMS microphone includes a first diaphragm element, a counter electrode element, and a low pressure region between the first diaphragm element and the counter electrode element. The low pressure region has a pressure less than an ambient pressure.
US09181079B2	Adjustable horse bit An adjustable horse bit that acts as a snaffle bit (direct-pressure) under normal circumstances and transforms into an elevator bit (leverage bit) when a threshold force is applied to a hingedly attached lever section of the horse bit cheek piece. Absent the threshold force, the lever section retracts to transform the elevator bit back to a snaffle bit.
US09181078B2	Mobile fuel distribution system A modular, environmentally friendly mobile fuel distribution station includes a fuel tank, a support structure having a plurality of legs for supporting an operation platform in an elevated position a predetermined distance above ground, an alternative power generation device, the alternative power generation device being one of a solar power generator and a wind power generator for providing primary power to the mobile fuel distribution station and a central platform operatively connected to at least two of the legs, the at least two of the legs bearing the weight of the central platform, wherein the fuel tank and the alternative power generation device are disposed on the operation platform.
US09181077B2	Methods for liquefied natural gas fueling A method and apparatus for fueling the onboard storage tank of a vehicle with liquefied natural gas. A liquid cryogen such as liquid nitrogen is fed to a condensing unit to condense natural gas present in a fueling system. Liquefied natural gas is fed into the fueling system and natural gas vapor is recovered from the onboard storage tank of the vehicle and fed to the condensing unit. When the pressure of the onboard storage tanks is sufficient, the liquefied natural gas is fed from the fueling system to the onboard storage tanks.
US09181075B2	Water container A water container includes a bottle body containing water and a bottle mouth, a cup body detachably assembled to the bottle body, and a valve assembly secured to the bottle mouth. The valve assembly includes a ball and an elastic member. The ball and the elastic member are received in the receiving cavity. The elastic member is pressed between the ball the upper case and biases the ball towards sealing the opening. When the cup body is pushed toward the bottle body, the cup body drives the ball to unseal, to allow flow of water into the cup with no risk of spillage.
US09181073B2	Click-and-Fix coupling An improved coupling piece for the Click-and-Fix coupling of a disposable pressure container with a dispensing gun is provided, including an integrated cap and internal support legs for securing the position of the stem of the valve of the container when pressure increases inside the container, and which coupling piece may be produced as one single product using injection moulding. Further provided is an assembly of a container with the coupling piece, and a process for producing the coupling piece and the assembly. The coupling piece and/or the assembly may be further adapted for handheld use with a suitable handheld applicator.
US09181070B2	Hydraulic driving apparatus for working machine Provided is an apparatus provided in a working machine to lower a load, comprising a hydraulic pump, a hydraulic actuator, a manipulation device having a manipulation member, a meter-in flow control device, a meter-out flow control device, a back pressure valve, a regeneration fluid passage branched from the meter-out fluid passage at a position upstream of the back pressure valve and merged with the meter-in fluid passage, and a check valve. The meter-in flow control device controls a meter-in flow rate in a region of the meter-in fluid passage upstream of a merging point with the regeneration fluid passage. The meter-out flow control device controls a meter-out flow rate in a region of the meter-out fluid passage upstream of a branching point of the regeneration fluid passage so as to make the meter-out flow rate be greater than the meter-in flow rate.
US09181066B2	Passenger conveyor A passenger conveyor comprising an endless conveyor track, a power source configured to supply power to said endless conveyor track, an entrance allowing a passage to the conveyor track, an exit allowing a passage away from the conveyor track, and a balustrade beside the conveyor track. Guide elements are positioned at the entrance/exit on a floor at proximity of an end of the balustrade. The guide elements are laterally elongated, and are configured to guide rolling or moving objects to/from the conveyor without contacting or being obstructed by the balustrade. The guide elements include a source of electromagnetic waves which radiate the electromagnetic waves to an entrance/exit zone of the passenger conveyor.
US09181063B2	Sheet processing apparatus, image forming system, and sheet-bundle additional folding method A sheet processing apparatus includes a pressing unit including a first pressing member and a second pressing member. The pressing unit is configured to press a fold in a folded sheet bundle by holding the fold between the first pressing member and the second pressing member. The sheet processing apparatus also includes a moving unit configured to move a pressing position of the pressing unit in a direction of the fold in the sheet bundle; and a position changing unit configured to change relative positions of the first pressing member and the second pressing member in the direction of the fold in the sheet bundle.
US09181062B2	Trim arm adjustment assembly automated setting Techniques for automatically setting trim removal or stacking device arms. One point on a trim arm (such as an end) is attached to a transverse rail, along which that end moves, and provides an anchor point to which the trim arm can be angled. An automated device anchors that end of the trim arm, and locks it in place at a position designated by an operator. A skew adjustment pin couples to a second point on the trim arm, so that adjusting the position of the adjustment pin skews the trim arm's angle. An automated device anchors that second point of the trim arm, and locks it in place at a angle designated by an operator. A control system electronically measures the location of the first anchor point, and directs positioning devices to move trim arms, skew them, and lock or unlock those settings.
US09181060B2	Recording apparatus A recording apparatus includes a recording part configured to record onto a recording medium; a discharge part configured to discharge a recorded medium, which is the recording medium that has been previously recorded on; and a medium catcher part configured to catch the discharged recorded medium. The medium catcher part has a guide surface configured to guide a leading end of the discharged recorded medium toward a side (the direction of approach side) opposite to a discharge direction in which the recorded medium is discharged, at a lower side of the discharge part and is configured so that the guide surface is separable from the discharge part.
US09181053B2	Paper-feeding device and image forming apparatus A paper-feeding device, during a paper leading edge detection interval that includes an expected point in time of arrival of a paper leading edge at a paper sensor installation location, and during a paper trailing edge detection interval that includes an expected point in time of passage of a paper trailing edge, allows the signal level of a paper detection signal that is outputted to a main body section to fluctuate on the basis of an actual output value of a paper sensor, and during a transition interval from the paper leading edge detection interval to the paper trailing edge detection interval, locks the paper detection signal that is outputted to the main body section, to the signal level at the end of the paper leading edge detection interval.
US09181052B2	Paper pickup mechanism A paper pickup mechanism is used with a pickup tape and includes a frame, a release roller, a receive roller and a sponge. The release roller and the receive roller are rotatably mounted in the frame and apart parallel to each other. The sponge is mounted at a bottom of the frame and parallel to the release roller and the receive roller. The sponge is located at a level position below that of the release roller and the receive roller. The pickup tape is mounted to the release roller. The free end of the pickup tape rounds the bottom face of the sponge and is mounted to the receive roller. The stick face of the pickup tape against the sponge is exposed outward and opposite to the sponge.
US09181051B2	Sheet feeding device and image forming apparatus including the same A sheet feeding device selectively transmit a driving force transmitted to a double gear type driving gear to a first reverse gear to rotate a retard roller in a direction opposite to a rotation direction of a forward roller such that various kinds of sheets having different friction forces are separated and supplied, and an image forming apparatus including the same.
US09181049B2	Medium intake device A lower pressure plate (43) is disposed upon a paper currency pressing part (34) of a paper currency intake part (5) below an upper pressure plate (41) with a spring (44) interposed therebetween, and the paper currency pressing part (34) presses the lower pressure plate (43) upon stacked paper currency (BLC). Thus, when the stacked paper currency (BLC) oscillates vertically with the rotation of a picker roller (23), the paper currency pressing part (34) absorbs by the spring (44) an upward force which is applied from the stacked paper currency (BLC). Furthermore, the paper currency pressing part (34) presses the lower pressure plate (43) by a restoring force of the spring (44) with respect to the falling stacked paper currency (BLC). Accordingly, the paper currency pressing part (34) continues to make the lower pressure plate (43) make contact with the uppermost part of the stacked paper currency (BLC), allowing the intake of the paper currency (BL) to continue without misalignment of the paper currency in the stacked paper currency (BLC) to occur.
US09181047B2	Pallet dispenser and method thereof An apparatus includes a pallet dispensing system, including a movable frame being configured to movably hold, at least in part, a pallet stack between a pallet-storage position and a pallet-dispensation position. The movable frame is also configured to hold the pallet stack relative to a pallet transporter in such a way that the pallet transporter is permitted to vertically lift, at least in part, the pallet stack as the movable frame is provided, at least in part, with vertical-lift assistance through stored potential energy.
US09181044B1	Mechanically controlled vacuum throttle for a continuous dense phase particulate material conveying system and method A mechanically-controlled vacuum throttle for a continuous dense phase pneumatic conveying system and related method is provided. The system includes a pneumatic conveyance line, a particulate material insertion assembly, a positive displacement blower, a transport fluid intake assembly, and a vacuum throttling assembly. The vacuum throttling assembly is configured to control the flow of air mass density into the blower and through the conveyance line. A portion of the vacuum throttling assembly is tied in to the conveyance line pressure downstream of the blower and adjusts the air mass density flow depending on the downstream pressure. Preferably, the vacuum throttling assembly includes an obstruction element and an opening collar, where the obstruction element is moveable relative to the opening collar and the air mass density flow is adjusted depending on the amount of movement of the obstruction element relative to the opening collar.
US09181040B2	Method for changing a transporting configuration of a workpiece of an absorbent article A method of changing a transporting configuration of a workpiece of an absorbent article includes: for the workpiece having a shape in which a longitudinal central section is narrower in the lateral direction than longitudinal end sections, transporting a plurality of workpieces in longitudinal-direction flowing, the plurality of workpieces being transported in a state where the longitudinal end sections of each workpiece are adjacent to the central section of another workpiece and the plurality of workpieces form N workpiece lines (N is an integer of 2 or more) arranged in a lateral direction; forming each workpiece group including N workpieces by correlating, based on a predetermined correlation pattern; and changing a transporting configuration of the workpieces of the workpiece group from the longitudinal-direction flowing to the lateral-direction flowing. The forming of the workpiece group is performed by correlating workpieces arranged side by side in the lateral direction.
US09181035B2	Rectangular thin panel conveyance unit The thin panel conveyance unit used for piling up and conveying a plurality of rectangular thin panels includes: resin cushion spacers inserted between the rectangular thin panels, each resin cushion spacer having a load-receiving upper surface for receiving load of the rectangular thin panel disposed above and a placement lower surface placed on an upper surface of the rectangular thin panel disposed below, and having an end part provided with a positioning body for the resin cushion spacer; a pallet having an upper surface configured to allow the rectangular thin panels to be piled up thereon; and a protection sleeve surrounding the piled rectangular thin pallets. The upper surface of the pallet is provided with a peripheral groove in which the protection sleeve can be fitted.
US09181034B2	Overhead conveyor system for conveying packaging trays A food processing system for processing food products includes a food processing device for processing food products, at least one filling station at which packaging trays are filled with those food products, and a conveyor system configured for conveying the packaging trays. The food processing system also includes a distribution control system configured for linking product information, in the form of one or more characteristics of the packaging trays and/or the food products in said trays, to the respective packaging tray, and for activating the conveyor system, the at least one filling station and the food processing device, and for activating two or more export stations.
US09181031B2	Trolley as well as a storage system comprising such a trolley The invention provides a trolley for use in a storage system comprising at least one row of side-by-side storage positions for containers, which trolley is reciprocally movable along a path of movement that extends parallel to the row for transferring a container between the trolley and a storage position located opposite the trolley. The trolley comprises a frame, at least one supporting arm and a device for moving the at least one supporting arm forward and backward, transversely to the path of movement, relative to the frame between a passive position and at least one active position, in which at least one active position, in contrast to the passive position, the at least one supporting arm extends at least partially into a storage position.
US09181028B1	Waste treatment component Waste treatment component includes a base having a lower wall and a peripheral wall extending from the lower wall and to one side of the lower wall around the periphery of the lower wall. The lower wall and peripheral wall define a compartment on an upper side of the lower wall that is receivable of waste treatment material. To allow for dispersal of this material, the base has apertures in communication with the first compartment. A movable member is arranged at the lower end of the base and has a portion spaced apart from the lower wall to define a second compartment between the member and the lower wall that is receivable of waste treatment material. To allow for dispersal of this material, the member includes apertures in communication with the second compartment. Thus, the waste treatment component includes two compartments, one on each side of the lower wall.
US09181027B2	Trash receptacle securing system A trash receptacle securing system is provided and comprises a trash receptacle having an open top and a closed bottom. At least one aperture is formed in the closed bottom of the trash receptacle. A weighted mounting base is provided having a top surface and a bottom surface. At least one nub is formed on the top surface of the weighted mounting base with the nub receivable within the at least one aperture and releasably contactable with the closed bottom of the trash receptacle. A foot release pedal moves the at least one nub in a generally outward direction within the at least one aperture and out of contact with the closed bottom of the trash receptacle. Upon activation of the foot release pedal, the trash receptacle is separable from the weighted mounting base.
US09181026B2	Containment berm with internal “L” braces A containment berm comprising a containment material that is configured to provide at least a floor and four walls of the berm, a plurality of brackets positioned on the floor and adjacent to the inside surface of the four walls, and a top rail. Each bracket comprises a vertical member, connecting member, and horizontal member. A first end of the vertical member is pivotally connected to a first end of the horizontal member at a first pivot point. A first end of the connecting member is pivotally connected to the horizontal member at a second pivot point between the first and second ends of the horizontal member. The top rail extends around a top perimeter of the four walls of the berm. Each bracket comprises a clamp portion that is situated on a second end of the vertical member and that clamps onto the top rail.
US09181024B2	Reversibly foldable freight container The present disclosure provides a reversibly foldable freight container having a roof structure, a floor structure and sidewall structures. The reversibly foldable freight container further includes a front wall and a rear wall, where the front wall includes front wall corner posts, a front door hinge on at least one of the front wall corner posts and a front door joined to the front door hinge. The rear wall includes rear wall corner posts, a hinge on the rear wall corner posts and a rear wall door joined to the hinge, where the rear wall door can pivot on the hinge to extend adjacent an exterior surface of the sidewall structure or can pivot into the volume of the reversibly foldable freight container. In an unfolded state the reversibly foldable freight container has a predefined width measured at a predetermined point on each of two of the rear wall corner posts. A plurality of jointed members in the floor structure allows the reversibly foldable freight container in an unfolded state to move toward a folded state so that the predetermined points on the rear wall corner posts do not extend beyond the predefined width of the reversibly foldable freight container in the unfolded state.
US09181022B2	Trophy container apparatus A collapsible container for protecting and transporting an animal head is provided. The collapsible container comprises at least one strap for carrying the collapsible container and a base component comprising a bottom, four sides, a lid. The lid comprises four triangular flaps and an opening centrally located in the lid. The four triangular flaps open to allow a hunter to place the animal head within the base component, while the opening permits passage of the animal head's antlers through the lid. The four triangular flaps are then zipped together further securing the animal head.
US09181021B2	Preservation and dispensing system for corked bottles The invention involves a system and method for preserving and dispensing liquids from a corked bottle. The system includes a manifold connected to a supply of pressurized gas. Fluidly connected to the manifold is a tube assembly, which extends through the cork of a bottle for the introduction of pressurized gas to the inner portion of the bottle. A second tube within the tube assembly is provided for the transfer of liquid out of the bottle to the manifold for dispensing through the dispensing valve. A floating tip assembly is provided on the distal end of the outer tube member for covering the gas and liquid openings during insertion of the tube assembly into the bottle. The floating tip assembly moves either automatically or manually after insertion of the tube assembly to allow gas and fluid to flow through the assembly.
US09181020B2	Actuator systems and methods for aerosol wall texturing A system for dispensing texture material comprises a container, an outlet assembly, and an aerosol valve assembly. The container stores texture material and propellant material. The aerosol valve assembly is arranged to allow control of fluid flowing out of the container. The outlet assembly is configured such that the cross-sectional area of the outlet opening corresponds to the desired pattern. The aerosol valve assembly is operated to allow the propellant material to force the texture material out of the container through the outlet opening defined by the outlet assembly. The texture material forced out of the container is deposited on the target surface in the desired pattern.
US09181019B2	Aerosol dispenser The aerosol dispenser, comprises: an aerosol canister and associated valve stem; and an actuator cap (1) comprising: a rotatable outer body (2) and an associated actuator button (3); and a non-rotatable chassis (4) and an associated spray channel assembly (6), the latter comprising an outlet nozzle (63); the outer body (2) being rotatable between a first position in which the spray channel assembly (6) is separated from the valve stem of the aerosol canister and the dispenser is incapable of activation and a second position in which the spray channel assembly (6) is attached to the valve stem of the aerosol canister and the dispenser is capable of activation.
US09181010B2	Heat-sealable biodegradable packaging material, a method for its manufacture, and a product package made from the material A heat-sealable biodegradable packaging material, its manufacturing method and a product package formed thereof, where the packaging material comprises a fiber substrate, an inner polymeric coating layer against the fiber substrate, which contains polylactide and a biodegradable polyester that is blended therewith to improve the adhesion between the inner coating layer and the fiber substrate, and an outer coating layer that constitutes the outer surface of the material and contains polylactide and a biodegradable polyester that is blended therewith to improve the heat sealing ability of the layer, the portion of polylactide in the inner layer present in an amount greater than that in the outer layer. The inner and/or outer coating layers can further have blended therewith a small amount of acrylic copolymer that improves the adhesion and/or heat sealing ability. The coating layers can be introduced onto the fiber substrate by extrusion or coextrusion.
US09181009B1	Cup with outwardly protruding straw channel and nestable food container and cover A cup with an outwardly protruding straw channel and nestable food container and cover that enables simultaneous or intermittent access of the contents of the container and attached cup without disengagement of the food container from the cup, wherein a portion of the cup that holds the food container may be utilized as a fill line when filling liquids into the cup to ensure that insertion of the food container does not result in overflow of liquid from the cup. Additionally, the food container may include at least one cavity that may hold at least one independent drop-in container. A simple domed cover or variable height domed cover may keep food items that are placed within the food container warm.
US09181008B2	Temperature-sensitive packaging closures A device containing a temperature-sensitive material comprises a first part containing the material, a second part which engages the first part and allows, or can be disengaged or displaced to allow, the material to be dispensed or utilised, a locking means, and a temperature-sensitive activator for the locking means that is activated at a predetermined temperature, and thereby irreversibly prevents the material from being dispensed or utilised should it become frozen or exposed to temperatures below a predetermined limit.
US09181002B2	Revarnishing head for lids of a rounded shape A header intended to be installed in a horizontal platform in the form of a working table of a recoating machine to repair lids, lids, comprises a copying device (1) sustained by a cam support (5), joined in turn to an upper support (4), the copying device having a copying cam body (3) solidary to the cam support (5), the static solidary set of these three elements (3-4-5) being coupled around the main rotary shaft (10), to which lower extremity a drum (18) is affixed dragging the copying device with its rotary movement. The copying device has, among its elements, roller followers (25) driven in grooves (3′) located in the copying cam body 3, the copying device (1) also having coating guns (17).
US09181001B2	Tamper-evident container cap and neck finish A tamper-evident cap is disclosed having a circular closure member, a cylindrical annular wall depending generally from the periphery of the closure member terminating with a base and having a plurality of serrations, and a tamper-evident band circumferentially positioned around the base having teeth and attached to a portion of the base. The tamper-evident band may be mounted to the base by at least one of the teeth or attached by at least one of the serrations extending below the base. The interior and/or exterior of the cylindrical wall may be stepped. The tamper-evident band may have a groove between the teeth for retaining the tamper-evident band on a neck finish. A neck finish having at least one set of teeth and optional raised portions for securing the tamper-evident band in place is also disclosed. The neck finish may be stepped to correspond with a cap having a cylindrical wall with a stepped interior. A cap and neck finish combination for a container is also disclosed.
US09181000B2	Container with cap A cap is engaged with a container at two positions, one being a fitting section between the container and an elastic ring body provided inside of the cap to be deformable from outside of the cap, the other being an engaging section between the container and engaging pieces provided on the cap. An engaging strength of the fitting section is set stronger than an engaging strength of the engaging section. The engagement at the fitting section is released when the elastic ring body is pushed from outside of the cap and deformed.
US09180999B2	Perforated bags The invention features a series of bags having perforations on the front and back panels that connect the back portion of one bag with the front portion of a second bag. The bags are aligned and features holes that are adapted to be received by a stand to support the bags. The bags are packaged and ready to load in a ready to use position. When the bags are separated from each other, the next bag in the continuous series will align and expand to open into a use position. The bags can be stacked on top of each other in a ready to use position.
US09180984B2	Methods and apparatus for performing propulsion operations using electric propulsion systems Methods and apparatus to methods and apparatus for performing propulsion operations using electric propulsion system are disclosed. An example apparatus includes a frame, a power source coupled to the frame and a payload coupled to the frame, the payload to receive or transmit data. The apparatus also includes an electric propulsion system coupled to the frame. The electric propulsion system is to enable attitude control, momentum control, and orbit control of the apparatus.
US09180980B2	System in space for reinforcing photosynthesis and method The present disclosure relates to a system in space for reinforcing photosynthesis on earth, comprising a satellite with at least one first optical assembly intended for collecting sunlight, the position of which is stationary; a second optical assembly, smaller in size and with less inertia than the first optical element, intended for retransmitting the collected light with higher density of the retransmitted flux density than the collected flux density, and with an adjustable orientation; a remotely controllable means capable of adjusting the orientation of the second optical assembly; and a light-transmitting means which transmits the collected light from the first optical assembly to the second optical assembly. The second optical assembly retransmits light only in specified frequency hands around 450 nm and 660 nm.
US09180978B2	System and method for departure metering from airports Described herein are systems and methods for allocating departure slots at an airport. One embodiment of the disclosure of this application is related to a method including calculating an estimated taxi time (“ETT”) based on airport data and flight plan data, allocating a departure slot time for the first flight based on the ETT, and populating the allocated departure slot time in an allocation grid. Another embodiment of the disclosure of this application is related to a system comprising a user interface displaying information related to flight plan data and airport data received from an airport network, and a departure allocation processor calculating an estimated taxi time (“ETT”) for the first flight based on the airport data and the flight plan data, allocating a departure slot time for the flight, and populating the departure slot time in an allocation grid via the user interface.
US09180971B2	Aircraft ventilation device The ventilation device according to the invention includes a fan and an inverter. The fan comprises a rotary electrical machine and a wheel for setting an air flow into motion, integral with the rotary machine to set it in rotation. The inverter is connected to the rotary machine and, in one motor power mode of the ventilation device, is suitable for forming the supply current of the rotary machine. The inverter is suitable for being connected to a power supply network. The inverter is reversible and is, in a generating mode of the ventilation device, suitable for converting the electrical energy supplied by the rotary machine when it is driven mechanically by the wheel and injecting said converted electrical energy into the power supply network.
US09180966B2	Actuation system for an active element in a rotor blade In accordance with one embodiment of the present application, an actuation system is configured for actuation of an airfoil member with a flap mechanism. The actuation system can include an upper drive tape and a lower drive tape, each partially wrapped around a first bearing and second bearing. An inboard frame can be actuated by at least one linear actuator. Similarly, an outboard frame can be actuated by at least one linear actuator. The inboard frame is coupled to the upper drive tape, while the outboard frame is coupled to the lower drive tape. An actuation of the inboard frame and outboard frame in a reciprocal manner acts move a flap input lever reciprocally upward and downward. A flap mechanism is configured to convert the movement of the flap input lever into rotational movements of the airfoil member.
US09180964B2	Autorotative enhancement system An autorotative enhancement system comprises a transmission having a driveshaft configured to couple to an engine. A mast is configured to couple to multiple rotor blades. An autorotative assist unit is configured to the transmission and is configured to store energy during normal operation and drive the rotor blades through the transmission to provide supplemental autorotative assistance upon loss of engine power.
US09180963B2	Device for driving an aircraft wheel in rotation The invention relates to a device for driving rotation of an aircraft wheel comprising a rim (4) mounted to rotate on an axle (2) of landing gear about an axis of rotation (X), the device comprising a drive ring gear (103) and a drive actuator (101) having an outlet pinion (102) that co-operates with the drive ring gear to drive the wheel in rotation. The drive ring gear is mounted to rotate about the axis of the rim of the wheel, the drive device including selective coupling means (150) that are operable to link the rim and the drive ring gears together in rotation, or to disconnect them.
US09180962B2	Leading edge variable camber system and method A system for varying a wing camber of an aircraft wing may include a leading edge device coupled to the wing. The leading edge device may be configured to be actuated in an upward direction and a downward direction relative to a retracted position of the leading edge device.
US09180961B2	Control surface for creating variable camber along a wing An apparatus and method for controlling a shape of an outer surface of a control surface. In one illustrative embodiment, an apparatus comprises a control surface and a shaping system associated with the control surface. The control surface is associated with a portion of an aft edge of a wing. The control surface comprises a plurality of segments in which each of the plurality of segments comprises a number of sections. The shaping system is configured to move each segment in the plurality of segments independently of other segments in the plurality of segments to control a shape of an outer surface of the control surface.
US09180955B2	Mechanical assembly for lifting a balloon A lift assembly for use during inflation of a balloon envelope is provided. The lift assembly includes a plate structure that has a set of cavities. Each cavity includes one or more openings passing through the plate. One or more pistons are coupled to the plate through at least one of the openings of each cavity in the set of cavities. Each piston has a hollow tube portion projecting lengthwise from the at least one opening, a flange attached to the hollow tube portion and a grabber portion in communication with the flange. The grabber portion includes a plurality of bearings for grabbing a stud attached to an apex of the balloon envelope. A handle portion is coupled to the plate. The handle is arranged to lift the balloon envelope when the bearings have grabbed a given stud.
US09180952B2	Nautical variable steering and propulsion assembly A nautical variable-trim (10) steering and propulsion assembly that can be associated to the underside of the bottom (11) of a watercraft and in communication with a motor unit (12) located within said watercraft, said assembly (10) comprising a widened base (13) of resting on said watercraft, a shaft (14) connected on one side to said base (13) and on another side to a supporting torpedo-shaped element (15) defining the axis of rotation (16) of at least one propeller (17) set at least one end of said torpedo-shaped element (15), moreover being provided a directional fin-shaped skeg (18, 18′) associated to said torpedo-shaped element (15) rotating about the axis of said shaft element (14) for controlling the directionality of said watercraft, characterized in that said directional fin-shaped skeg (18, 18′) is in addition rotating about an axis parallel to said axis (16) of said at least one propeller (17).
US09180951B2	Ship maneuvering device Provided is a ship maneuvering device that can increase operation sensitivity and enables smooth operation when simultaneously operating the rotation component determination unit and the oblique sailing component determination unit of an operation means. In the ship maneuvering device 1, a control device 31 computes a rotation component propulsion vector Trot for rotation and an oblique sailing component propulsion vector Ttrans for oblique sailing for left and right out-drive units 10A, 10B from the amount of operation of a joystick 21, calculates the combined torque T by combining the rotation component propulsion vector Trot and the oblique sailing component propulsion vector Ttrans for each of the left and right out-drive units 10A, 10B, and computes the propulsion and orientation for each of the left and right out-drive units 10A, 10B.
US09180948B2	Paddle device and water vehicle The invention relates to a paddle device (10) for water vehicles, wherein a double or single paddle (2) is attached to a height-adjustable spar (1) so as to be movable in all directions, and the spar can be movably and detachably connected to the floating body (6) of a water vehicle, wherein the paddle device has a device (14, 16) for fixing the spar (1) in the direction of the bow and/or stern of the water vehicle; the paddle device (10) is used for force-saving paddling together with improved propulsion.
US09180946B2	Deep-sea device for recovering at least one deep-sea object The invention relates to a deep-sea device for recovering at least one deep-sea object, in particular at least one organism and/or cell material. The deep-sea device comprises a capturing system (14) for accommodating at least one deep-sea object, and a drive unit (16) for driving the deep-sea device. The deep-sea device is designed and equipped in particular to be advanced at least in sections substantially in the buoyancy direction (Ar) toward the water surface. The deep-sea device is designed in particular like a torpedo.
US09180944B2	Drive-on watercraft lift with adjustable bunks A drive-on watercraft (10) has removable/replaceable bunks (50, 80). The bunks are configured to define two rails (64,66; 94a,b). In one embodiment, one rail (64) is higher than the other rail (66). This bunk with rails of different heights can be positioned on the body of the lift with either rail facing inwardly, such that the lift can be configured to receive watercraft of different sizes. In a second embodiment, the bunk (80) has a ramp (84) positioned to extend rearwardly from the back of the lift body when the bunk is mounted to the lift body. The bunk ramp (84) provides a sacrificial point of first contact for of a watercraft with the lift and provides for a softer ride for the watercraft onto the lift.
US09180942B2	Multifunctional engagement apparatus for a water recreation device and associated methods A multifunction engagement apparatus for use with a water recreation device may include a foot pad and a multifunction strap. The multifunction strap may be positioned to overlie the substantially flat foot pad, and may be moveable between an uncollapsed position and a collapsed position. In the uncollapsed position, the multifunction strap may present a generally arcuate foot opening between the strap and the top surface of the foot pad. In the collapsed position, the multifunction strap may present a substantially flat contact cushion atop the foot pad. The multifunction strap may have elastic properties that allow for selective positioning of the multifunction engagement member for use by a towed rider as the rider transitions between prone, kneeling, and/or standing positions atop a water recreation device.
US09180940B2	Systems and methods for a robust underwater vehicle Systems and methods for a robust underwater vehicle are described herein. A robust underwater vehicle may include a force-limiting coupler connecting an actuation system to an actuation fin. The force-limiting coupler may be configured to break away from the actuation system upon receiving a threshold force. The robust underwater vehicle may also comprise hull sections connected by a threaded turnbuckle. Carbon-fiber axial strength members may mate with the threaded turnbuckle to pull the hull sections together to a specified preload tension. The robust underwater vehicle may also include a blazed sonar array protected by a carbon fiber bow including a plurality of slits. The plurality of slits may provide significant protection to the sonar array while simultaneously allowing one or more transducers to transmit sonar signals in a two-dimensional plane.
US09180939B2	Systems and methods for watercraft having marine environment enhancement capability Systems and methods for watercraft and marine propulsions systems having marine environment enhancement capabilities are disclosed.
US09180936B2	Control device for positioning an instrumented cable towed in water Control device (10, 50) for controlling the position of an instrumented cable towed in water, such as a marine seismic streamer, and/or an instrumented towed cable array (streamer array) with the possibility of controlling the individual instrumented cables both with in shape and position in relation to other instrumented cables and by that counteract cross currents and/or other dynamic forces which affect a towed array behind a seismic survey vessel, which control device (10, 50) is provided with one or more acoustic means, such as acoustic transmitter/receiver elements (40), arranged to or integrated in the wings (11, 52), main body (12, 53) or motor and drive gear housings (51) of the control device for determination of position and distance.
US09180935B2	Method and apparatus for hawser connection in a TLP—TAD system A hawser system between a tension leg platform (TLP) and another vessel employs two lines, oriented in a V-shape, to restrict the vertical motion of a hawser near the bow of the other vessel which may be a semi-submersible tender assisted drilling vessel (TAD). Drilling operations may be performed from the TLP while the semi-submersible provides the supporting services for the drilling operation, e.g. drilling fluid and drill pipe storage. The restricted vertical motion of the hawsers significantly reduces the possibility of the hawsers contacting each other. A hawser system according to the invention couples the semi-submersible TAD vessel to the TLP and may be implemented without passing the hawsers through sheaves.
US09180933B1	Integrated stern bulb and flap The invention is directed to an integrated stern bulb and flap for a water vessel, more particularly, a bulb having a main body section and a forebody section, the bulb positioned between first and second flap portions. The integrated stern bulb and flap provides improved power efficiency by reducing resistance at high speeds. The bulb of the integrated stern bulb and flap may be hollow, the interior being stowage space adding to the payload of the water vessel.
US09180932B2	Method and apparatus for insta fill wake system A Method and Apparatus for Insta Fill Wake System have been disclosed. By using a rotatable cylinder that can be positioned as closed, flood, and drain and deployable on a boat, controlled filling/emptying/holding of water in ballast tanks is possible without the use of pumps.
US09180931B2	Paddle wheel yacht A paddle wheel yacht includes a ship body and a ship power device that is arranged on the ship body and consists of a propeller driven by a main engine. The propeller consists of two paddle wheels. The lower edges of the paddle wheels are lower than the bottom surface of the ship body and are symmetrically arranged on the two sides of the ship body. Paddles are uniformly distributed on the outer edges of the paddle wheels in the radial direction and continuously flap the water surface down-backward at high speed when the paddle wheels rotate at high speed. Only the tail part of the ship body contacts with the water surface and the ship body slides on the water surface, so as to avoid large water resistance and obviously improve the propulsion efficiency to realize the high speed and economical navigation of the ship.
US09180926B2	Inverted pendulum type moving body having velocity planning device The present invention provides an inverted pendulum-type moving body having a pair of wheels suspended from the moving body, using a floor as a traveling plane, and is provided on the same plane vertical to its travelling direction, a driving mechanism for rotating these wheels, posture measurement means for measuring an inclination angular velocity of its upper body that a straight line connecting a center-of-gravity position of a body of the moving body and an axle of the one pair of wheels makes with a vertical direction, and a mechanism control part for maintaining an inverted state of the moving body by controlling the driving mechanism, by having a velocity planning device for performing a movement plan so that the upper body angular velocity and the upper body angle may be in a relationship of quadratic function when a velocity change is needed.
US09180921B2	Idler wheel assembly An idler wheel assembly for a track-type machine includes a circular body, and a sound dampening member. The circular body includes a central hub portion, an annular flange portion integral with the central hub portion, and a circumferential rim portion to define an annular cavity along with the central hub portion and the annular flange portion. The sound dampening member disposed in the annular cavity and a retainer plate positioned adjacent to the sound dampening member.
US09180919B2	Aerodynamic drag reducing apparatus An aerodynamic drag reducing apparatus is adapted for mounting behind a vehicle. The aerodynamic drag reducing apparatus includes a side panel, an actuator arrangement, a top panel, and an interconnecting member. The side panel is adapted to move between a deployed position and a stowed position. The actuator is mounted between the side panel and the vehicle. The top panel is adapted to move between a deployed position and a stowed position. The interconnecting member is connected between the side panel and the top panel. The interconnecting member coordinates movement between the side and top panels such that they each move together between the deployed positions and the stowed positions, respectively. One or more of the panels may be mounted to a door of the vehicle via deformable hinges and/or deformably mounted hinges and thereby allow the door to open compactly against a side of the vehicle by deforming the panels, the hinges, and/or the mounts of the hinges.
US09180911B2	Vehicle operating condition determining system, driving assist system, and operating condition determining method A vehicle operating condition determining system determines, when a turning angle of wheels or a steering angle of a steering wheel changes, that the turning angle of the wheels or the steering angle of the steering wheel changes due to a driver's intention, under a condition that the magnitude of steering torque applied to a steering device is kept equal to or larger than a threshold value after the torque reaches a peak, for a period of time equal to or longer than a reference time.
US09180910B2	Apparatus for converting a wheeled vehicle to a tracked vehicle The invention relates to track systems 14, 14′ that may be used to convert steerable, all-wheel drive construction equipment to steerable, multi-track construction vehicles 10. A preferred embodiment of the track system 14, 14′ includes a frame 60, 182 having a reinforcing enclosure 150, 230, a plurality of track engaging rollers 82-86, 202-206, a sprocket 102, 214, and an endless track 76, 198 operatively connected to the frame 60, 182. Tension on the endless track 76, 198 is maintained with two tensioning members 170, 244 operatively connected to the forwardmost roller 82, 202. The track system 14, 14′ preferably includes a limiting apparatus 300 that is configured to restrict the rotational movement “r” of the frame 60, 182 relative to a vehicle axle 16 to which it is attached. The limiting apparatus 300 has a first component 40, which is associated with the vehicle axle 16, is configured and arranged to interact with a second component 262, which is associated with the frame of the track system 14, 14′. Preferably, the limiting apparatus 300 is adjustable such that the range of rotational movement “r” can be varied.
US09180908B2	Lane keeping system and lane centering system A lane keeping system for a vehicle sets a safe zone in which the driver can drive the vehicle. If the system determines that the driver is at risk of leaving the safe zone, the system takes a corrective action, such as notifying the driver or applying a steering correction to the vehicle. The system adjusts the width of the safe zone depending on the driver's capability to stay within the safe zone. A lane centering system may be capable of autonomously steering the vehicle to remain within a lane. The lane centering system may include a controller that determines a target path for the vehicle depending on certain parameters. The controller may model each of the lane delimiters in a simplified form. This facilitates the determination of one of the target paths (the centerline of the lane). The simplified form may be a 3rd order polynomial equation.
US09180905B2	Electric power steering apparatus for vehicle Disclosed is an electric power steering apparatus for a vehicle. The electric power steering apparatus for the vehicle has a structure in which a motor shaft, an input shaft, a pinion shaft, and the like are coaxially disposed to improve a structure of a conventional art in which an electric motor is essentially exposed, so as to prevent interference with other structures, thereby forming a layout of the steering apparatus to be compact.
US09180903B2	Steering communication device, steered-object communication device and steering communication system The present invention provides a steering communication system being able to individually obtain a telemetry data from a steered-object communication devices mounted on the steered-object. An arbitrary identification number assigned to a plurality of steered-object communication devices mounted on a steered-object at the time of pairing-setup is associated with the equipment ID of a pairing object. When performing transmission request of a telemetry data, a steering signal adding the transmission request information and the own identification number is transmitted. The steered-object communication device judges signal classification of the inputted control signal. When the steering signal adding transmission request information and the own identification number is inputted, the steered-object communication device transmits a telemetry data signal adding the telemetry data as an answer signal to a steering communication device.
US09180902B2	Telescopic steering apparatus and outer column Construction of an outer column for a telescopic steering apparatus is achieved in which sufficient strength is maintained even when a steering lock apparatus is assembled, and smooth operation is maintained when making it possible to adjust the forward/backward position of a steering wheel, and when maintaining the adjusted position. Of the end sections 58a, 58b, 59a, 59b of the sub slit sections 52a, 52b of an approximately H-shaped slit 19a for expanding or contracting the inner diameter of a fitting support portion 31a of an outer column 11b, the rigidity of the nearest end section 58a portion that exists in the location closest to a lock through hole 37a and of the furthest end section 59a portion that exists in a location diagonally from the nearest end section 58a, is greater than the rigidity of the end sections 58b, 59b in the remaining two locations. Moreover, convex sections 61a, 61b are provided at two locations in the up/down direction on the outside surfaces of each of a pair of held plate sections 20a, 20b.
US09180899B2	Shopping cart tray A shopping cart tray includes a trapezoidal bottom plate, a front plate, a rear plate, and right and left side plates. The trapezoidal bottom plate is configured to fit in a loading space of a shopping cart. The front plate extends from a front side of the trapezoidal bottom plate. The rear plate extends from a rear side of the trapezoidal bottom plate. The right side plate extends from a right side of the trapezoidal bottom plate. The left side plate extends from a left side of the trapezoidal bottom plate. The shopping cart tray fits into the shopping cart and maximize a usage of the loading space. The dimension of the trapezoidal bottom plate is slightly smaller than a dimension of the loading space of the shopping cart.
US09180897B2	Modular utility cart A modular utility cart comprising a body defining a door opening; wheels attached to a lower portion of the body for supporting the body; and a door operatively attached to the body and adapted to mate with the door opening, wherein the body is adapted to receive a utility module thereto is provided. A method of assembling a modular utility cart is also provided. A kit of utility cart and utility module(s) is equally provided herein.
US09180893B2	Protective structure for tank top fittings A railway tank car including a protective structure for the top of its cargo tank and surrounding both a valve group mounting nozzle and a pressure relief safety valve nozzle, to protect the associated valves against damage resulting from the car being overturned, particularly while the railcar is moving along a railway. The protective structure includes protective housings including upstanding walls of metal plate construction surrounding the nozzles yet not attached directly to the nozzles, so that the protective housings afford convenient access to the valves associated with the nozzles.
US09180891B2	HVAC system for heating and cooling a mobile machine cabin An HVAC system for a mobile machine having a frame and a cabin supported by the frame. The HVAC system includes a first heat exchanger configured to exchange heat between coolant and the frame of the mobile machine and a first pump configured to circulate coolant through the first heat exchanger. The HVAC system also includes a second heat exchanger configured to receive coolant from the first heat exchanger and a fan configured to generate a flow of air through the second heat exchanger and into the cabin.
US09180889B2	Automatic implement identification system An identification system is provided for a vehicle-implement system wherein a selected one of a plurality of different implements is coupled to the vehicle. Each of the plurality of implements has a unique corresponding component or actuator. A component sensor senses a condition of the component, such as the position of the piston of a hydraulic cylinder. The sensor generates a sensor signal which has a signal characteristic (such as a frequency) which has a plurality of values. each frequency value is unique to a corresponding one of the components. A signal processing unit receives the sensor signal and identifies the selected implement as a function of the value of the characteristic of the sensor signal.
US09180888B1	Student driver feedback system allowing entry of tagged events by instructors during driving tests Tagged driving events may be generated during a driving session from sensor data collected via one or more sensors and/or entered by an instructor. The tagged driving events may include a description of each driving event and its associated severity or weight as it relates to a scoring process as well as a time and/or a location of the driving event. A driving session report may be generated using the tagged driving events and may include a driver feedback score that is weighted based on the severity associated with each of the tagged driving events and/or the collected data, a map of the driving session route that indicates a map location of each tagged driving event, and/or a listing of each tagged driving event. The driving session report may be displayed such that a user may select a tagged driving event to view information associated with the tagged driving event.
US09180887B2	Driver identification based on face data A system for identifying a driver comprises an image capturing device, a processor, and a memory. The image is captured during vehicle operation and of an expected driver location. The processor is configured to detect a face of a driver in the image, determine a set of face data from the image, and identify the driver based at least in part on the set of face data. The memory is coupled to the processor and configured to provide the processor with instructions.
US09180886B2	Control device for vehicle In a control device for a vehicle on which is mounted a continuously variable transmission capable of mechanically locking a primary pulley at the time of a maximum gear ratio (maximum Low), an idle rotational speed is not always set high to increase a hydraulic pressure at the time of stopping the vehicle. Instead, at the time of stopping the vehicle, when the gear ratio of the continuously variable transmission is the maximum gear ratio, normal idle rotational speed control is performed, and only when the gear ratio is not the maximum gear ratio, idle-up control is performed so that the idle rotational speed is set high, thereby the hydraulic pressure is set high. Thus, by restricting conditions in which the hydraulic pressure is set high by the idle-up control, it is possible to improve fuel efficiency while suppressing generation of a belt slip.
US09180883B2	Method and module for determining of at least one reference value for a vehicle control system Described is a method for determining a reference value for a vehicle. The method includes: performing a number of simulation cycles Sj each comprising simulation steps: making a first prediction of the vehicle's speed vpred—cc along the determined horizon with a conventional cruise control; comparing, in a first comparison, the predicted vehicle speed vpred—cc with Vlim1 and Vlim2, which define a motor torque used in a subsequent simulation cycle; making a second prediction of the speed when the engine torque is a value that depends on the result of said comparison in the latest preceding simulation cycle; comparing, in a second comparison, the predicted vehicle speed vpred—Tnew with vmin, and Vmax1 which demarcate a range within which the speed is maintained; determining the reference value based on the second comparison and/or the second predicted speed in that simulation cycle Sj; and controlling the vehicle according to the reference value.
US09180882B1	Avoiding blind spots of other vehicles Aspects of the disclosure relate generally to detecting and avoiding blind spots of other vehicles when maneuvering an autonomous vehicle. Blind spots may include both areas adjacent to another vehicle in which the driver of that vehicle would be unable to identify another object as well as areas that a second driver in a second vehicle may be uncomfortable driving. In one example, a computer of the autonomous vehicle may identify objects that may be relevant for blind spot detecting and may determine the blind spots for these other vehicles. The computer may predict the future locations of the autonomous vehicle and the identified vehicles to determine whether the autonomous vehicle would drive in any of the determined blind spots. If so, the autonomous driving system may adjust its speed to avoid or limit the autonomous vehicle's time in any of the blind spots.
US09180877B2	Control device A control device controls a vehicle drive device in which a first engagement device, a rotary electric machine, a second engagement device, and an output member are arranged on a power transfer path from an internal combustion engine to wheels. The control device executes mode transition control that causes transition from (i) a first control mode in which both the first engagement device and the second engagement device are in a slip engagement state and the rotary electric machine generates electric power to (ii) a second control mode in which the first engagement device is in a direct engagement state, the second engagement device is in the slip engagement state, and the rotary electric machine generates electric power.
US09180876B2	Control apparatus for hybrid vehicle Embodiments described herein relate to control apparatuses for hybrid vehicles which permit starting the engine and a shift-down action of the transmission while assuring not only a reduction of the heat generated by a clutch, but also an improvement in the response of the vehicle to an operator's desire for high drivability. In one embodiment, the control apparatus controls the hybrid vehicle such that when the transmission is required to be shifted down while the hybrid vehicle is switched from a motor drive mode to an engine drive mode, a time of initiation of the shift-down action of the transmission is delayed by a longer length of time when a temperature of the clutch upon initiation of an engine starting control to start the engine is relatively high than when the temperature is relatively low. Various other embodiments of control apparatuses for hybrid vehicles are also described.
US09180870B2	Diesel engine aftertreatment heating and cleaning hybrid operation A method for selecting an engine operating point in a multi-mode powertrain system includes monitoring a desired axle torque based on an operator torque request and vehicle speed. When an aftertreatment device used to purify regulated constituents within an exhaust gas feedstream output from the engine is determined to require an exhaust gas feedstream temperature to be increased to a predetermined temperature, an intrusive engine operation mode is enabled to increase the exhaust gas feedstream temperature to the predetermined temperature. A plurality of engine power is retrieved, wherein each engine power loss corresponds to respective ones of a plurality of intrusive engine operation points each achieving the predetermined temperature of the exhaust gas feedstream. A desired engine operation point is selected corresponding to one of the intrusive engine operation points having a lowest total power loss.
US09180868B2	Control device A control device that that performs starting control for an internal combustion engine. A first transition control during which a first engagement device is caused to transition from a disengaged state to a slipping engagement state is started after the starting request for the internal combustion engine is made. A rotational speed control in which the rotary electric machine is controlled such that a rotational speed of the rotary electric machine becomes a target rotational speed is started before the first engagement device transitions from the disengaged state to the slipping engagement state. A rotational speed control is terminated and torque control in which the rotary electric machine is controlled after the first engagement device transitions from the disengaged to the slipping engagement state, and the second engagement device is caused to transition from a direct engagement state to a slipping engagement state after the torque control is started.
US09180867B2	Drive control apparatus of hybrid vehicle A drive control apparatus of a hybrid vehicle, in which a motor torque instruction value operator of controller calculates a torque instruction value of each of a plurality of motor generators by using a torque balance equation including a target engine torque which is obtained from a target engine operation point and an electric power balance equation including a target charge/discharge power. Thus, control of the plurality of motor generators in the case where there is a charge/discharge to/from a battery can be performed, and both of assurance of a target drive force and assurance of a target charge/discharge can be satisfied in consideration of an operation point of an internal combustion engine (engine operation point).
US09180866B2	Clutch device A clutch device having an actuating device for a drivetrain of a motor vehicle having an internal combustion engine, an electric machine with a stator and a rotor, and a transmission device, where the clutch device is situated in the drivetrain between the internal combustion engine on the one side and the electric machine and the transmission device on the other side, the clutch device and the actuating device being integrated into the rotor of the electric machine, in order to improve the construction and/or the function of the clutch device.
US09180864B2	Hybrid vehicle A hybrid vehicle includes: a charge state calculator which calculates a charge state of an electricity storer; a standard opening and closing device which turns off a contactor when the charge state calculated by the charge state calculator is lower than a standard lower-limit value; and an engine startup opening and closing device which maintains the contactor in an on state when an engine startup signal is input even when the charge state calculated by the charge state calculator is a value for turning off the contactor, wherein the contactor turning-on operation executed by the engine startup opening and closing device is executed when the charge state calculated by the charge state calculator is higher than an engine startup lower-limit value set lower than the standard lower-limit value by a predetermined value.
US09180861B2	Method and system for engine control Methods and systems are provided for restarting an engine in response to a driver's change-of-mind. In one embodiment, the engine is shutdown during an idle stop with the transmission in a higher gear or with the transmission tied-up to a transmission case. In response to a driver change-of-mind restart request, the transmission is downshifted, or released from the tie-up, to return driveline torque.
US09180859B2	Vehicle and method of controlling a vehicle Embodiments of the present invention provide a motor vehicle having: a prime mover; first and second groups of one or more wheels; and a driveline to connect the prime mover to the first and second groups of one or more wheels such that the first group of one or more wheels and not the second group may be driven by the prime mover when the driveline is in a first mode of operation and both the first and second group of one or more wheels may be driven by the prime mover when the driveline is in a second mode of operation, the driveline including an auxiliary portion comprising a first releasable torque transmitting means, a prop shaft and a second releasable torque transmitting means, the first releasable torque transmitting means being operable to connect a first end of the prop shaft to the prime mover, the second releasable torque transmitting means being operable to connect a second end of the prop shaft to the second group of one or more wheels, the vehicle further comprising control means operable to control the first and second torque transmitting means to switch the driveline between the first and second modes of operation such that in the first mode the prop shaft is disconnected from both the prime mover and said second group of one or more wheels by means of the first and second releasable torque transmitting means, in the first mode the control means being operable automatically to connect the prop shaft to only one selected from amongst the prime mover and the second group of one or more wheels by means of the first or second releasable torque transmitting means responsive to a value of a temperature parameter determined by the control means, the temperature parameter corresponding to a temperature of a component of the vehicle.
US09180858B2	Hybrid drive device A hybrid drive device in which an input shaft is connected to an engine, an output shaft is connected to wheels, and a wheel drive motor is connected between the input shaft and the output shaft. In the hybrid device, a friction engagement element that is provided between the input shaft and the output shaft and of which transfer torque is controllable. A control device controls the friction engagement element. The control device reduces the transfer torque of the friction engagement element during engine starting in a predetermined low temperature environment or during travel on a bad road, compared to the transfer torque of the friction engagement element in an engaged state.
US09180847B2	Method for determining a model upstream pressure by means of a mathematical model in an electronically regulated motor vehicle brake system Method for determining a model upstream pressure (PTMC—mod) using a mathematical model in a motor vehicle brake system. An electrically controllable hydraulic valve (7a, 7b) control brake pressure on a wheel brake. Wheel sensors (10a, 10b) provide a vehicle speed signal. From the vehicle speed signal (vref) generating at least a first low pass filtered vehicle speed signal (Vref—fast, Vref—hard, Vref—soft) for using with a first limit frequency (fg1, fg2, fg3), from whose time profile the point in time (t1) of a significant decrease is detected, used for determining a time duration (Timer) starting with deceleration of the vehicle, which ends at the onset of regulation of the braking process. For the classification of the actuation speed of the brake pedal (16) the time duration (Timer) is compared with one or more threshold values (SW1, SW2). Depending on the comparison, determining a model upstream pressure (PTMC—mod) using the mathematical model.
US09180846B2	Trailer tongue connection unit A safety brake system for a trailer comprises a brake end having a brake unit adapted to be secured to a trailer and positioned to block movement of the trailer when actuated and an actuation end adapted to be secured to a front end of the trailer. The actuation end comprises a hitch ball coupler having a hand portion defining a concavity adapted to receive a hitch ball of a vehicle. It also comprises a mechanism operatively connected to the hitch coupler and displaceable with respect thereto. The mechanism comprises a probe plunger and a hitched position. The mechanism is connected to the brake unit for actuation of said brake unit. The safety brake system also comprises a biasing unit. A trailer assembly is also provided.
US09180844B2	Electric parking brake control device An EPB control device controlling an electric actuator driving an EPB, wherein the device performs control to reach a lock position, a release position and a standby position between the lock position and the release position. In the lock position, a friction-applying member is thereby pressed against a friction-applied member by the EPB by actuating the electric actuator and a predetermined braking force is generated. In the release position, the friction-applying member is separated from the friction-applied member when the EPB is not actuated. In the standby position, a transition to the lock position is performed in a shorter time than when the EPB is actuated from the release position by the actuation of the electric actuator. The device controls, when a starting operation to start moving a vehicle is performed, the electric actuator such that the standby position is reached.
US09180841B2	Disk brake A disk brake including a mount member having a pin insertion portion integrally connected to a connection portion so as to outwardly protrude from an outer surface of the connection portion in a radial direction of a disk rotor. A tip of a pin insertion hole of the pin insertion portion is positioned at an inner side of a vehicle relative to an outer portion. Thus, it is possible to prevent a braking torque from affecting the pin insertion portion of the mount member. As a result, it is possible to prevent a slide pin from interfering with an inner wall surface of the pin insertion hole, thereby preventing a brake judder phenomenon from occurring during a braking operation.
US09180836B2	Side airbag apparatus An airbag of a side airbag apparatus includes an upstream inflation portion, which inflates by inflation gas, and deploys frontward at a side of a vehicle seat. An opening is provided at a wall portion of the upstream inflation portion. A pressure regulator valve closes before an occupant is restrained by the upstream inflation portion, thereby restricting the inflation gas in the upstream inflation portion from flowing through the opening. Upon the occupant restraint, the pressure regulator valve cancels the restriction in response to a change in a tensed state of the dividing portion by an external force applied due to the restraint. A tear seam that connects valve body portions of the pressure regulator valve delays the opening time of the pressure regulator valve upon the occupant restraint by the upstream inflation portion relative to the opening time set only by the pressure regulator valve.
US09180834B1	Vehicle occupant restraint system for oblique impact An occupant restraint system for a vehicle includes an airbag module disposed in a column cover. The column cover covers a steering column of the vehicle. The airbag module includes an inflator within the column cover and an airbag coupled to the inflator. The airbag is moveable between a deflated position within the cover and a deployed position exiting the cover to the left and upwardly for deployment toward an A-pillar of the vehicle during an oblique impact.
US09180828B2	Vehicle body front structure In a vehicle body front structure, a crash box provided in a front part of a front side member is broken by applying pressure due to a collision load, so that a second load transmission member moves backward toward a first load transmission member. This allows the second load transmission member to abut with the first load transmission member, thereby making it possible to transmit the collision load input into the second load transmission member, to a body portion of the front side member via the first load transmission member. Besides, since the second load transmission member is not provided in a bumper reinforcement, it is possible to replace the bumper reinforcement separately from the second load transmission member.
US09180821B1	Bicycle carrier A bicycle rack that allows multiple bicycles to be secured in a fanned out position includes a mounting section, a main body, and a plurality of bicycle-receiving subassemblies. The mounting section provides a means for supporting the main body and attaching the bicycle rack to a vehicle, while the main body supports the plurality of bicycle-receiving subassemblies. Each of the plurality of bicycle-receiving subassemblies includes a frame-receiving cradle, a first pedal-receiving clamp, a second pedal-receiving clamp, and a pedal arm. The frame-receiving cradle provides a telescoping structure for supporting the down tube of a bicycle, while the first pedal-receiving clamp and the second pedal-receiving clamp provide a means for supporting the pedals of the bicycle, wherein the pedal arm offsets the second pedal-receiving clamp from the first pedal-receiving clamp. The main body includes a primary beam and a secondary beam; the secondary beam being detachable when fewer bicycles are transported.
US09180819B2	Interior rearview mirror assembly with integrated indicator symbol An interior rearview mirror assembly for vehicles relating to interior rearview mirror assemblies without a frame or bezel having inputs corresponding to elements representing a symbol. The symbols are located behind a reflective element and not visible until activated by selection of the corresponding input or other means.
US09180817B2	Exterior mirror unit, mirror support, method for assembly of an exterior mirror unit Exterior mirror unit comprising a mirror base for attachment to a motor vehicle, a mirror support connectable with the mirror base and an actuator unit placed between the mirror support and mirror base for pivoting adjustment of the mirror support relative to the mirror base, wherein the mirror support is connectable with the actuator unit and the mirror base in a manner detachable as a whole.
US09180816B2	Fender mirror mount A mirror mount that mounts a mirror to a vehicle fender. The mount can include a base that faces a vehicle fender exterior without extending upwardly and under a hood of the vehicle. A support arm extends from the base and includes a distal end that joins with a mirror. One or more pillars extend away from the base. The pillars can be sized and shaped to extend through holes in the fender to a frame member of the vehicle disposed inwardly relative to the fender. The pillars are associated with a fastener to join with the frame member so that weight of the mirror, the base, the support arm and/or the pillars are substantially born by the frame member. This can reduce transmission of vibration inherent in the fender to the mirror, and/or can rigidly and structurally connect the mirror to the frame member, rather than the fender.
US09180813B2	Vehicle notification sound emitting apparatus A vehicle notification sound emitting apparatus is basically provided with a first sound emitting device, a second sound emitting device and a notification sound control device. The first sound emitting device emits a first intermittent notification sound inside a cabin interior of a vehicle. The second sound emitting device emits a second intermittent notification sound outside of the cabin interior of the vehicle. The notification sound control device operates the first and second sound emitting devices to separately emit the first and second intermittent notification sounds in at least a partially overlapping pattern in response to occurrence of a vehicle condition to convey a same type of vehicle information to both inside and outside of the cabin interior of the vehicle. The notification sound control device includes a cabin interior-exterior notification sound synchronizing section that is configured to synchronize the first and second intermittent notification sounds.
US09180812B2	Steering wheel cover with driver alert system A steering wheel cover with driver alert system is an apparatus that attaches to a vehicle's steering wheel. The apparatus utilizes a driver alert system to detect when a driver is falling asleep while operating a vehicle and signal an alarm. The driver alert system accomplishes this by monitoring a driver's grip on the steering wheel. When a driver's grip loosens, the driver alert system signals an alarm to wake the driver. The steering wheel cover with integrated driver alert system is fitted to an existing vehicle's steering wheel with minimal if any modifications and utilizes an external power source to charge the apparatus when the vehicle is not in use.
US09180809B2	Vehicle LED lighting device A vehicle LED lighting device includes a drive control means 51 includes an abnormality detection means 60 detecting a disconnection or short-circuit abnormality of the LED lamp, the abnormality detection means 60 includes a current detection unit 61 detecting the value of a current flowing through the LED lamps 20 and 30 when the LED lamps 20 and 30 are driven by the drive control means 51, a comparison unit 62 comparing the current value detected by the current detection unit 61 with a predetermined abnormality determination value, and a determination value switching unit 63 switching the abnormality determination value in accordance with variation of a power supply voltage of the vehicle, and whether or not there is the disconnection or short-circuit abnormality is judged based on the abnormality determination value switched by the determination value switching unit 63 and the detected current value.
US09180804B2	Clip, connected clip, and seat cover covering structure Slits (36) are formed on a wall part (28) of a clip (16), and a locking piece (34) is made elastically deformable. Only the locking piece (34) is elastically deformed outward when a suspender (22) is locked in the locking piece (34). The locking piece (34) is restored when an upper face (22A) of the suspender (22) passes a top part of a locking claw (38) of the locking piece (34). The suspender (22) is thus prevented from coming out, and the suspender (22) is locked in the clip (16).
US09180803B2	Rear pass through power outlet A rear seat assembly within an automotive vehicle is provided. The seat assembly including a seat bottom portion and a seat back portion where the seat back portion includes a fold down arm rest movable from a closed position to an open position. The fold down arm rest is pivotable about a first pivot point. A generally vertical wall separates a cab portion of the vehicle from a trunk portion of the vehicle. The wall is connected to the seat back portion and is generally parallel with the seat back portion. A passageway or pass through portion connects the cab portion of the vehicle with the trunk portion of the vehicle. A power supply portion is mounted to the generally vertical wall and is mounted adjacent to or within the passageway. The power supply portion is accessible when the fold down arm rest is in the open position.
US09180802B2	Retractable striker and seat with a retractable striker The present invention relates to a retractable striker (1) and a vehicle seat for a vehicle with a retractable striker (1), wherein the retractable striker (1) is arranged on a seat structure (8), wherein the retractable striker (1) is at least partly retractable into the seat structure (8).
US09180801B2	Vehicle configuration A vehicle configuration wherein the center of mass of the vehicle is approximately superimposed upon the passenger and driver centers of mass when seated within the vehicle. An occupant's center of mass can be approximated using a standard center of mass position approximation, or a combination of any number of standard center of mass position approximations. The vehicle's center of mass can be approximately superimposed upon the occupant's center of mass in at least the longitudinal and vertical directions.
US09180797B2	Vehicle seat A vehicle seat includes a seat part and a backrest. Both the seat part and the backrest may be reversibly moved from a usage position to a stowed position. A sensor detects the position of the seat part. The seat may also be moved to an easy-entry position by rotation about an axis, and another sensor may detect the longitudinal position of the seat part in the easy-entry position.
US09180796B2	Longitudinal adjuster for a vehicle seat and vehicle seat A longitudinal adjuster for a vehicle seat (1) includes a lower rail (5) and an upper rail (3) guided displaceably in the longitudinal direction therein. An upper clamp (30) is connected to the upper rail (3) and has at least one upper blocking region (39). A lower clamp (50) is connected to the lower rail (5) and has at least one lower blocking region (59). The lower blocking region (59) and the upper blocking region (39) are normally spaced apart from each other and intermesh in the event of a crash. A locking shackle (34), connected to the upper clamp (30), includes a bolt (42) running in the transverse direction. The upper clamp (30) has a cutout (32) within which the bolt (42) is arranged, and the bolt (42) is arranged behind the rear end of the upper rail (3) in the longitudinal direction.
US09180790B2	DC feeder voltage control apparatus and DC feeder voltage control system A DC feeder voltage control apparatus includes a model-information storing unit storing train model information on each train running in a control section, substation model information on each substation, and feeding network model information in the control section, a fixed-voltage-value storing unit storing a fixed voltage value of a substation voltage set for each substation, a train-operation-state-information acquiring unit acquiring positions and operation state information on the trains running in the control section, a first-substation-voltage fixing unit outputting the fixed voltage value to two first substations located at both ends of the control section, and a second-substation-voltage calculating unit calculating a setting voltage value of the substation voltage in at least one second substation located between the two first substations based on the information, and substation voltages and substation currents of the first substations to output to the second substation.
US09180788B2	Fuel-saving rating device and power amount management device A fuel-saving driving diagnostic device stores an external power amount which indicates an amount of power charged by an external device and an internal power amount which indicates an amount of power charged by vehicle driving. The fuel-saving driving diagnostic device calculates a driving power amount which indicates an amount of power required for vehicle driving based on the stored external power amount, stored internal power amount, and an amount of power a vehicle currently has, and makes a diagnosis of fuel-saving driving based on the calculated driving power amount and the stored external power amount. As a result, sufficient information is calculated for prompting the driver of a plug-in hybrid car to do the fuel-saving driving.
US09180786B2	Method to ensure reliable reception of electric vehicle association messages A vehicle controller of a vehicle may set a message acceptance type and a time window for response according to a type of association procedure message received from a requester, provide the association procedure message to electric vehicle supply equipment, and return a received response message to the requester when the response message is of the acceptance type and received within the time window, and otherwise reject the response message.
US09180785B2	System and method of controlling low-voltage DC/DC converter for electric vehicle A system and method of controlling a low-voltage DC/DC converter for an electric vehicle that include a battery sensor that senses information regarding a low-voltage battery during a stop of the electric vehicle for each first period when the electric vehicle stops and a controller that operates a low-voltage DC/DC converter to charge the low-voltage battery for a predefined time when an error occurs in the battery sensor. In addition, the controller determines a charge time of the low-voltage battery based on first SOC values of the information regarding the low-voltage battery sensed for each first period when no error in the battery sensor is detected and operates the low-voltage DC/DC converter for the determined charge time to charge the low-voltage battery.
US09180782B2	Non-contact power receiving apparatus, non-contact power transmitting apparatus, and non-contact power transmitting/receiving system A non-contact power receiving apparatus includes a power reception unit for receiving electric power from a power transmitting apparatus outside of a vehicle in a non-contact manner, and a control device for controlling the electric power transmission from the power transmitting apparatus. The control device controls the electric power transmission based on a monitoring result obtained by monitoring the surroundings of the vehicle, and a door state detection result obtained by detecting whether or not a door of the vehicle is open. The control device causes, if the door state detection result indicates that the door is open, the power transmitting apparatus to reduce the power of the electric power transmission, and controls the electric power transmission without using the monitoring result.
US09180777B2	Rear integration of a suspension system and fuel tanks in fuel cell vehicles A fuel cell powered vehicle fuel storage system is disclosed having a suspension system, a fuel tank, and a support system, wherein the suspension system, fuel tank, and support system cooperate to carry vehicle structural loads and the reaction loads of the suspension system and to maximize a volume of the fuel tank.
US09180773B2	Vehicular exhaust structure A vehicular exhaust structure is provided for exhausting gas used for cooling down a battery arranged under a seat in a vehicle into a luggage compartment of the vehicle behind the seat and including an underfloor storage box arranged under a deck board. The structure includes an exhaust duct and an exhaust conduit. The exhaust duct is arranged behind the battery with an inlet thereof located at a first end facing the battery and an outlet thereof located at a second end facing upward. The exhaust conduit includes a box section communicated with the outlet of the exhaust duct and defined by surfaces of a front portion of the underfloor storage box arranged over the outlet of the exhaust duct. One of the surfaces faces a back surface of a backrest of the seat and has a through hole that opens toward a front side of the vehicle.
US09180760B2	Bumper beam with losing plate joined using CD welding (capacitor discharge) The invention relates to a bumper bracket for a motor vehicle body, comprising a first profiled section having a three-dimensional structure and a second component, which spatially closes the first profiled section. The two components have overlapping surfaces used for welding, wherein the welding is carried out by way of impulse capacitor discharge welding.
US09180757B2	Vehicle modular upper-door assembly A modular upper-door assembly including a standard geometric corner component and a standard geometric B-pillar component for all vehicle model doors. Each header, belt and window-track has a different length and bend geometry for each vehicle model door while each respective component shares a standard geometric cross-section. All headers may connect to the corner component and B-pillar component in the same locations for each vehicle model door. All belts may connect to the corner component in the same location for each vehicle model door, but the attachment location on the B-pillar may vary from vehicle to vehicle. A stationary-glass or mirror-sail may also be overmolded into the assembly.
US09180752B2	Rotary mode door for constant demist bleed A vehicle heating, ventilation, and air cooling (HVAC) system that includes a casing, an evaporator, and a heater core. The casing defines a windshield outlet, a side window outlet, a front face outlet, and a front foot outlet. The evaporator and heater core are both housed within the casing. The side window outlet is between the evaporator and the windshield outlet.
US09180751B2	Air conditioner for vehicle The present invention relates to an air conditioner for a vehicle that includes: a mode door having a thin. plate member, solidly operating inside an air-conditioning case to control the degree of opening of a defrost vent, a face vent and floor vents, and a gear shaft, engaged with the thin plate member for its operating; and constant discharging means disposed at a rail portion. of the thin plate member and at a guide part of an air-conditioning case overlapped with the rail portion, so that air of a fixed quantity is discharged to side vents of the face vent, thereby providing a simple structure and reducing manufacturing costs because the gear holes of the rail portion and the cut portions of the guide portion serve as the constant discharging means, without a need for additional structure to constantly discharge air toward the side vent.
US09180750B2	Vehicular thermo-control device A vehicular thermo-control device adjusts a temperature of a battery. The device has a primary system through which cooling water circulates, and a secondary system through which a refrigerant circulates. The primary system has a heat exchanger which performs heat exchange between the battery and the cooling water, and a heat exchanger which performs heat exchange between the cooling water and an ambient air. The secondary system is a refrigerating cycle. Both heat exchangers on a high temperature side and a low temperature side of the refrigerating cycle are thermally coupled with the primary system. Only one heat exchanger provides heat exchange with the ambient air. The pump of the primary system can switch circulating direction of the cooling water. A controller controls devices to perform cooling and heating operation.
US09180748B2	Suspension control system and method of controlling suspension device A suspension control system includes a suspension device (2) that connects a sprung member (5) and an unsprung member (6) of a vehicle, an actuator (3) operable to adjust frictional force along a stroke direction of the suspension device (2), and a control device (4) configured to control the actuator (3), based on a velocity direction of the sprung member (5) parallel to the stroke direction of the suspension device (2), and a stroke velocity direction of the suspension device (2), so as to adjust suspension frictional force as the frictional force along the stroke direction of the suspension device (2). The control device (4) is configured to adjust a magnitude of the suspension frictional force, so that it becomes substantially equal to a required frictional force determined based on a value obtained by exponentiating the velocity of the sprung member (5), and a value obtained by exponentiating the stroke velocity of the suspension device (2).
US09180747B2	System and method of adjusting the chassis height of a machine A vehicle includes a chassis, a plurality of ground engaging elements supporting the chassis above a ground surface, a motor for driving at least one of the ground engaging elements to thereby propel the machine along the ground surface, and a chassis height adjustment system for selectively raising and lowering the chassis relative to the ground surface. A track width adjustment system is configured to shift the position of at least one of the ground engaging elements laterally relative to the chassis and a controller is configured to automatically actuate the track width adjustment system when the chassis height adjustment system is actuated to preserve a constant track width as the chassis moves up and down relative to the ground surface.
US09180745B1	Pickup truck with provisions for gooseneck hitch A pickup is adapted to facilitate installation of a gooseneck hitch by installation of a hitch frame between the frame rails under the pickup bed box and provision of a hole in the pickup bed floor over the hitch frame. The bead pattern is designed to add rigidity in the vicinity of the hole. The beads on the left and the right of the hole are not interrupted in the vicinity of the hole. Instead, they are narrowed such that the separation between the beads is greater than the hole diameter in the vicinity of the hole while it is less than the diameter of the hole in other locations.
US09180741B2	Pneumatic tire A pneumatic tire comprises a belt layer 7, a band layer 9, and a noise damper 10 made of a sponge material and attached to a radially inner surface TS of a tread 2. The width WA of the noise damper 10 is of from 40%-70% of a ground contacting width TW of the tread. The band layer 9 has an overlapping portion 12 in which two band plies 9A, 9B are radially overlapped; and the overlapping portion 12 covers an axially outer region of the belt layer 7 with a cover width WB of from 10%-25% the ground contacting width TW. An axially inner end 12i of the overlapping portion 12 is spaced a distance LC of from 5%-20% the ground contacting width TW from an axially outer end E of the noise damper 10.
US09180739B2	Pneumatic tire A plurality of blocks is provided in a tread portion and a plurality of sipes is provided in a tread surface of the blocks. In the sipes, protrusions are formed on a first sipe wall surface of mutually opposing sipe wall surfaces and recesses that engage with the protrusions are formed on a second sipe wall surface. Collapsing of the portions of the blocks sandwiched by the sipes is suppressed due to the engaging of the protrusions and the recesses. A height of the protrusions provided on the sipe wall surfaces of the sipes located at the edges in the tire circumferential direction is greater than a height of the protrusions provided on the sipe wall surfaces of the other sipes. Specifically, a force that works to suppress bending deformation increases and collapsing of the portions of the blocks located at the edges in the tire circumferential direction is suppressed.
US09180738B2	Pneumatic tire with tread having lateral grooves A pneumatic tire reduces the columnar resonance noise of the tire while controlling the lowering of wet performances, wherein four circumferential grooves continuously extending in the circumferential direction of the tire are disposed in a treading face and a plurality of lateral grooves each having one end opened to the circumferential groove and terminated in a land portion are formed with respect to two circumferential grooves among the four circumferential grooves, and these lateral grooves and the respective circumferential grooves have such a groove width that both groove walls of the groove do not contact with each other in a ground contact face and one or more lateral groove are always completely included in the ground contact face, and an extending length of a portion of each lateral groove in the ground contact face having a groove width of the lateral groove corresponding to not less than 30% of a groove width of the circumferential groove is made not less than 40% of an extending length of the circumferential groove in the ground contact face.
US09180737B2	Molded tire having different tread material A molded tire may include a support structure having an inner circumferential portion and an outer circumferential portion. The inner circumferential portion may be configured to be associated with a hub. The molded tire may also include a tread portion associated with the outer circumferential portion of the support structure, wherein the tread portion may be formed from a first polyurethane having first material characteristics. The support structure may be formed from a second polyurethane having second material characteristics different than the first material characteristics. The support structure may be chemically bonded to the tread portion.
US09180733B2	Variable-diameter wheel A variable-diameter wheel 1 includes at least one rim or hub 11 having a predetermined diameter, to which at least one drive axle 14 of the wheel 1 is connected; at least one outer surface external to the hub 11, having a diameter which is greater than the diameter of the hub 11. At least one diameter-variation mechanism 3 is secured to the axle 14 and adapted to vary the actual diameter of the wheel 1 according to the torque applied to the drive axle 14 by at least one propulsion system.
US09180730B2	Turkey mount and process A new and novel turkey mount and a process for manufacturing said turkey mount.
US09180723B2	Text message activated fragrance sprayer A self-contained battery-powered portable fragrance sprayer activated by a text message received by wireless signal that initiates the fragrance dispersal.
US09180721B2	Lever for a ring binder mechanism A ring mechanism for retaining loose-leaf pages includes a housing and ring members for holding loose-leaf pages that are moveable relative to the housing between an open and closed position. An actuation system moves the ring members and includes hinge plates pivotally mounted on the housing and an actuator actuating pivoting movement of the hinge plates. A travel bar of the actuation system is moveable by the actuator between a locked position blocking pivoting movement of the hinge plates and an unlocked position allowing pivoting movement of the hinge plates. The actuation system is adapted to deform while moving the travel bar from the locked position toward the unlocked position to delay the pivoting motion of the hinge plates from the movement of the actuator.
US09180720B2	Method for operating a book forming and pressing machine A method for operating a book forming and pressing machine that includes a pressing device and a re-forming device to form a front cut of a book block. Values relating to the book block are determined with a higher order control along a book production line upstream of the book forming and pressing machine. The determined values are transmitted to the pressing device, the re-forming device and/or pressing plates of the pressing device for finishing the book block. A forming tool of the re-forming device is selected based on values that meet operational requirements for the processing of the front cut. The selected forming tool is moved in a plane or space to an operating position for forming the front cut of the respective book block. Movement of the pressing plates is controlled based on the measured book thickness and thickness of the book cover for the book block.
US09180719B2	Substrate for lithographic printing plate There is provided a lithographic printing plate substrate comprising (a) a base layer, (b) a layer of a first adhesive covering one side of the base layer except for at least two opposite edges thereof, and (c) an aluminum layer laminated onto the layer of first adhesive and said opposite edges of the base layer, the aluminum layer thereby being sealed with the base layer at said opposite edges of the base layer. There is also provided a method of manufacture thereof as well as a method of processing in view of recycling. Finally, there is provided a lithographic printing plate comprising the above substrate.
US09180717B2	Vinyl chloride resin latex for thermal sublimation transfer image-receiving sheet, and thermal sublimation transfer image-receiving sheet using same The present invention relates to a vinyl chloride resin latex for a thermal sublimation transfer image-receiving sheet, comprising a vinyl chloride homopolymer and an alkylbenzenesulfonate salt in an amount of more than 1 part by weight to 5 parts by weight per 100 parts by weight of the vinyl chloride homopolymer; and a thermal sublimation transfer image-receiving sheet using the same.
US09180712B1	Test patterns for print heads having two image sources A method is described that entails printing a series of test patterns. Each test pattern has its own respective set of outer lines and set of inner lines. The series of test patterns have a different intended spacing between their respective inner lines and outer lines. The intended spacing of each test pattern is printed in a manner that correlates the intended spacing of each test pattern with its test pattern. Each of the outer lines are printed with a first print source and each of the inner lines printed with a second print source. Inner lines of a first set of the test patterns are shorter than inner lines of a second set of the test patterns to enhance resolution at which differences in the spacings between respective inner and outer lines of same test patterns are able to be detected across different test patterns.
US09180711B2	Liquid ejecting apparatus A liquid ejecting apparatus includes a carriage that reciprocates and includes a recording head that ejects liquid and a liquid container that supplies the liquid to the recording head and an optical sensor that includes a light emitting section capable of emitting light toward the carriage and a light receiving section that receives reflected light that is light that has been emitted from the light emitting section and has been reflected by the liquid container. The carriage is provided with a projecting section capable of suppressing incidence of ambient light to the light receiving section of the optical sensor.
US09180701B2	Recording medium post-processing apparatus, printer unit with the same, recording medium post-processing method, and non-transitory computer-readable medium storing recording medium post-processing instructions A recording medium post-processing apparatus includes: a stacker which is stacked with a plurality of sheet-like recording media with images being recorded thereon; an receiving device which receives at least one of information regarding the images to be recorded on the recording media and information regarding the recording media; an alignment device which applies an external force to the recording media stacked on the stacker so as to align the recording media; a controller which sets, on the basis of the at least one information received by the receiving device, at least one of (i) stacked-sheet number that is the number of the recording media, and (ii) a magnitude of the external force that is applied to the recording media and which controls the alignment device on the basis of the setted at least one of the stacked-sheet number and the magnitude of the external force.
US09180697B2	Recording device The recording device includes recording unit for recording on a recording medium, conveying unit for conveying a recording medium upstream of the recording unit in the downstream direction, and an ejection unit for ejecting the recording medium which is downstream of the recording unit and which has undergone recording. The ejection unit has a drive roller and a driven roller urged toward the drive roller, the driven roller is capable of switching between a state of being urged by a first load and a state of being urged by a second load that is lower than the first load, the driven roller is set to the first-load selected state at least during rear end recording in which recording is performed on a rear end region of the recording medium, and the driven roller is set to the second-load selected state during ejection when the recording medium is ejected.
US09180692B2	Printer having modular vacuum belt assembly A printing system includes: a fixed printhead assembly having an array of printheads and vacuum platen assembly. The vacuum platen assembly includes a fixed vacuum platen and a plurality of rotatable service modules embedded in the fixed vacuum platen. Each service module is positioned opposite a respective printhead, and each service module comprises a respective vacuum platen module.
US09180688B2	Label production apparatus and label production method A label production apparatus includes a printing unit that prints a image onto a medium that includes a first base material, a second base material, and an adhesive layer between the first base material and the second base material; an inspection unit that inspects the image printed onto the medium; and a post-processing unit that cuts the first base material based on an inspection result from the inspection unit, the post-processing unit cutting the first base material using a first cut line that separates an area where the image is formed from the first base material in the case where a print defect has not been detected in the image, and cutting the first base material using a second cut line in which part of the first cut line is not cut in the case where a print defect has been detected in the image.
US09180687B2	Filter manufacturing apparatus and filter manufacturing method A filter manufacturing apparatus includes a printing cell setting unit that sets, based on a predetermined filter pitch and a head resolution, printing cells having an equal number of dot areas in the direction perpendicular to the transport direction of the printing medium, a shift amount calculating unit that calculates shift amounts between the filter pitch and the printing cells in the direction perpendicular to the transport direction of the printing medium, a shift amount determining unit that determines whether shift amounts of the printing cells exceed a unit dot area; and a printing cell complementing unit that complements the shift amounts of the printing cells exceeding the unit dot area by adjusting the number of dot areas included in the printing cells.
US09180685B1	Printer apparatus A printer apparatus comprises an insertion and discharging port; a first paper conveyance path configured to convey a first printing medium in a form of booklet inserted from the insertion and discharging port in a downstream direction towards a given printing position, and convey the first printing medium in a direction opposite to the downstream direction to discharge the first printing medium from the insertion and discharging port; a first printing section configured to carry out printing on the first printing medium conveyed to the printing position; a second printing section configured at the downstream side of the first printing section when seen from the direction of the insertion and discharging port to carry out printing on a second printing medium in a printing method different from that of the first printing section; a second paper conveyance path configured to merge with the first paper conveyance path at the downstream side of the first printing section of the first paper conveyance path to discharge the printed second printing medium through the first paper conveyance path from the insertion and discharging port; and a new booklet issuing section configured to insert an unused first printing medium in the second paper conveyance path as a newly issued medium.
US09180683B2	Decoloring device According to embodiments, a decoloring device includes a heat source unit which decolors images printed on sheets. The heat source unit includes a first heat roller and a first press roller which decolor an image on a first surface of a sheet. The heat source unit further includes a second heat roller and a second press roller which decolor an image on a second surface of the sheet. When the sheet is a non-decolor processing target sheet, the first heat roller and the first press roller, and the second heat roller and the second press roller move away from each other.
US09180681B2	Print apparatus, print method, and print sheet A print apparatus performing printing on a print medium that includes a lenticular lens and an ink absorption layer that absorbs ink includes a print head that ejects a plurality of types of ink and a control section that controls the driving of the print head. In the print apparatus, in a case in which at least one type of ink among the plurality of types of ink is ink the visibility of which is reduced when the ink is absorbed in the ink absorption layer, the control section controls ink different from the ink the visibility of which is reduced has been ejected before the ink the visibility of which is reduced dries when the ink the visibility of which is reduced is ejected on the side opposite to the mounting side of the lenticular lens in the print medium from the print head.
US09180680B2	Water-based ink, ink jet recording method, ink cartridge, recording unit, ink jet recording apparatus, and image forming method A water-based ink of the present invention includes water, a plurality of different water-soluble organic solvents, and a water-insoluble coloring material, wherein the above water-soluble organic solvents consist of a good solvent to the above water-insoluble coloring material and a poor solvent to the above water-insoluble coloring material, and the total amount (% by mass) of the good solvents in the ink is represented by A and the total amount (% by mass) of the poor solvent in the ink is represented by B, the ratio of A to B ranges from 10:5 to 10:30 both inclusive, and when the respective Ka values of the above water-soluble organic solvents are determined by the Bristow method and compared with each other, a water-soluble organic solvent having the largest Ka value is the poor solvent. The pigment ink has a sufficiently large area factor even with a small amount of ink and provides an image of high OD.
US09180673B2	Liquid supply In one example, an ink supply assembly that may be installed into a printer as a single unit while holding ink includes a first sub-assembly having a primary container to hold ink and a secondary container enclosing the primary container and configured to fit inside the printer. The assembly also includes a a second sub-assembly having an ink supply to receive ink from the primary container through a conduit and to deliver ink to a printhead.
US09180671B2	Liquid ejecting apparatus including a gap forming member having a locking member A liquid ejecting apparatus includes a main body in which an opening portion exposing at least a portion of a carriage moving area, a cover section displaceable with the main body, an ink tank that is located outside the main body, an ink supply tube for supplying ink from the ink tank to a head, and a spacer that forms a gap between the main body and the cover. An accommodation section is configured by a casing portion formed to protrude in a discharge direction of paper. An operation panel section is configured by a casing portion exhibiting an inclined surface. The spacer forms a gap having a size that does not shut off at least an ink flow path of the ink supply tube and passes the ink supply tube through the formed gap.
US09180670B2	Liquid ejection apparatus, method, and non-transitory, computer-readable medium for controlling liquid ejection apparatus A liquid ejection apparatus includes a liquid ejection head having a plurality of nozzle units, a plurality of capping devices, a movement mechanism, a plurality of suctioning tubes, a suctioning mechanism, a connection device, and a control device. The control device controls the suctioning mechanism to suction fluid in the capping device corresponding to one of the nozzle units and the capping device corresponding to a different one of the nozzle units. In response to expiration of a predetermined time period, which is a predetermined amount of time that the suctioning mechanism generates a suctioning force, the control device controls to disconnect the capping device corresponding to the one of the nozzle units from the suctioning mechanism.
US09180667B2	Liquid-ejecting head and liquid-ejecting apparatus A liquid-ejecting head includes a pressure-generating chamber communicating with a nozzle opening and includes a piezoelectric element including a piezoelectric layer and electrodes. The piezoelectric layer contains bismuth sodium potassium titanate and satisfies the inequality 0≦Pr/Pm≦0.25 at 25° C., where Pm and Pr are the saturation polarization and remanent polarization, respectively, of the piezoelectric layer.
US09180666B2	Image recording device An image recording device includes a head unit having a print head and a first substrate, a second substrate provided separate to the head unit, a support member that supports the head unit and the second substrate while a first positional relationship in which the head unit and the second substrate are close to each other and a second positional relationship in which the head unit and the second substrate are away from each other are changed. Moreover, in the first positional relationship, the head unit and the second substrate are connected to each other to form an electric signal supply path from the second substrate to the head unit, and, conversely, in the second positional relationship, the connection between the head unit and the second substrate is released such that the head unit is dismountable from the support member.
US09180663B2	Image processing apparatus, image processing system, and image processing method An image processing apparatus includes a recording control unit for recording, by a recording head, a recording position adjustment chart including a pattern for adjusting a recording position of the recording head discharging ink and a mark formed in a position different from that of the pattern, a reading unit for reading the recording position adjustment chart as image data, a first detection unit for detecting a position and inclination of the recording position adjustment chart when reading the recording position adjustment chart based on the mark, a second detection unit for detecting the position of the pattern based on the position and the inclination detected by the first detection unit, and a determination unit for determining adjustment values for the recording position adjustment based on the image data of the recording position adjustment chart in which the position of the pattern has been detected by the second detection unit.
US09180659B1	Aqueous transfix blanket design using screen geometry An aqueous transfix blanket and a printer including the aqueous transfix blanket. The aqueous transfix blanket includes a screen layer including a plurality of mesh wires that define a plurality of spaces between the plurality of mesh wires. The aqueous transfix blanket further includes a first layer that overlies the screen layer and a second layer that underlies the screen layer, wherein the plurality of spaces provide a plurality of air gaps between the first layer overlying the screen layer and the second layer underlying the screen layer.
US09180657B2	Method for starting continuous printing with reduced application of dampening solution and printing press for carrying out the method A method for operating an offset printing press having at least one printing unit with an inking unit, a plate cylinder for receiving a printing plate, a blanket cylinder, an impression cylinder and a dampening unit, and for controlling an application of dampening solution from the dampening unit onto the plate cylinder, includes predampening the printing plate. After a printing pressure has been switched on between the blanket cylinder and the impression cylinder and after a printing material transport through the offset printing press has been switched on, a supply of dampening solution to the plate cylinder in the printing unit is reduced to a pronounced extent at least once for a short predefined time period, as a result of which an excess of dampening solution produced by the predampening does not accumulate permanently in the inking unit. A printing press for carrying out the method is also provided.
US09180652B2	Microfluidic chips with optically transparent glue coating and a method of manufacturing microfluidic chips with optically transparent glue coating for a microfluidic device A microfluidic chip for a microfluidic system includes a PDMS substrate having a first thickness, at least one microfluidic pathway in the substrate, a coating along the microfluidic pathway, and a glass layer having a second thickness on the substrate and above the microfluidic pathway, wherein the coating contains an optically transparent material, and the first thickness is greater than the second thickness. The coating includes cyanoacrylates, an UV curable epoxy adhesive, a gel epoxy or epoxy under trade name of EPO-TEK OG175, MasterBond EP30LV-1 or Locite 0151.
US09180648B2	Laminate for laminated glass A laminate for a laminated glass, comprising an interlayer film for a laminated glass laminated with a retardation element interposed between an adhesive layer A and an adhesive layer B, wherein the retardation element contains a liquid-crystal compound and at least one compound selected from the group consisting of a compound represented by the following formula (1), a compound represented by the following formula (2), and a compound represented by the following formula (3). In formula (1), n represents an integer from 3 to 10 and R2 represents a —CH2—CH2— group, a —CH2—CH(CH3)— group, or a —CH2—CH2—CH2— group. In formula (2), R3 represents a —(CH2)p— group or a phenylene group and p represents an integer from 4 to 8. In formula (3), R4 represents a substituted phenylene group. R1-1, R1-2, and R1-3 in formulas (1) to (3) are the same or different, each representing an alkyl group that has a branched structure and that contains at least 5 carbon atoms.
US09180647B2	High flow polymer interlayers for laminated glass An interlayer comprised of a high flow, low molecular weight thermoplastic resin, and at least one plasticizer is disclosed. The use of a high flow, low molecular weight thermoplastic resin, and a plasticizer creates synergy allowing the flow of the interlayer to be increased without sacrificing other characteristics typically associated with an increased flow (e.g., increased blocking, decreased mechanical strength, and decreased manufacturing capability). In this regard, the high flow, low molecular weight thermoplastic resin provides a flow improvement, resulting in a high flow interlayer. As a result, a thinner interlayer can be utilized in forming multiple layer panels because the resulting thinner interlayer has improved flow properties.
US09180644B2	Additives with cloud points to improve efficiency of release agents This disclosure relates to papermaking and the use of creping adhesive and release agent compositions used in papermaking. In one aspect, there is provided a new class of release agents and compositions comprising release agents, the release agent comprising: a) a release agent comprising a quaternary imidazoline compound, an imidazoline free base, an oil-based dispersion, or a combination thereof; and b) a polyether component selected from a polypropylene glycol (PPG), a co-polymer of propylene glycol and ethylene glycol (co-PPG-PEG), a blend of polypropylene glycol (PPG) and polyethylene glycol (PEG), and a combination thereof, wherein the release composition has a cloud point in water at standard pressure from about 1° C. to about 98° C. There are also provided creping compositions having a cloud point, comprising an adhesive composition and a release composition as described.
US09180641B1	Method and apparatus for compacting powders An apparatus for compacting a powder includes a feed section (20), a compaction section (21), a discharge section (22), and a conveyor belt (103) extending through the feed, compaction, and discharge sections to convey powder through those sections. The feed section receives an incoming powder onto the conveyor belt. The compaction section compresses the incoming powder on the conveyor belt between two plates (8, 9) to provide a compacted powder. The top plate (8) may be pressed downward toward the bottom plate (9), the bottom plate may be pressed upward toward the top plate, or both. The discharge section receives the compacted powder from the compaction section on the conveyor belt. End plates (16) and side plates (11) confine the incoming powder during compaction.
US09180639B2	Method of forming a frontal toothing on an inner ring of a wheel hub A method including the steps of forming an inner ring of a wheel hub, by joining a spindle and an insert ring fitted onto the spindle, on a side of a first end of the spindle; axially blocking the insert ring on the spindle by plastically deforming the first end of the spindle that forms an upset collar therewith, which axially protrudes from the insert ring; frontally obtaining on the collar, on the side opposite to the insert ring, a frontal toothing by means of a single creator tool, towards the collar, with a toothing complementary to that to be obtained, by axially impressing onto the collar, in sequence, one or more teeth of the complementary toothing by eccentrically pushing the creator tool against the collar while the creator tool is held substantially coaxial to the wheel hub, thus acting peripherally in sequence on the whole creator tool.
US09180638B2	Method and device for producing large cylindrical structures A large cylindrically tubular molded part is made by assembling a plurality of inner segments into a tubularly cylindrical mold inner part having an outer surface centered on an axis and then juxtaposing reinforcing fibers with the outer surface. Then a plurality of outer segments are assembled into a tubularly cylindrical mold outer part coaxial with the mold inner part and having an inner surface radially confronting the outer surface of the inner part and forming therewith a mold cavity containing the reinforcing fibers. Multiple turns of prestressing cables are then wound under tension around the outer mold part to press the outer segments angularly together and the cavity is with a hard-curing plastic that is cured in the cavity to form the molded part reinforced with the reinforcing fibers. The inner segments are radially inwardly and the outer segments radially outwardly retracted then to demold the molded part.
US09180636B2	Variable focus ophthalmic device This invention discloses methods and apparatus for providing a variable optic insert into an ophthalmic lens. An energy source is capable of powering the variable optic insert included within the ophthalmic lens. In some embodiments, an ophthalmic lens is cast molded from a silicone hydrogel.
US09180634B2	Methods for formation of an ophthalmic lens precursor and lens This invention discloses methods for generating one or both of an ophthalmic lens precursor with at least a portion of one surface free-formed from a Reactive Mixture. In some embodiments, an ophthalmic lens precursor is formed on a substrate with an arcuate optical quality surface via a source of actinic radiation controllable to cure a definable portion of a volume of Reactive Mixture.
US09180633B2	Methods for formation of an ophthalmic lens precursor and lens This invention discloses methods for generating one or both of an ophthalmic lens precursor with at least a portion of one surface free-formed from a Reactive Mixture. In some embodiments, an ophthalmic lens precursor is formed on a substrate with an arcuate optical quality surface via a source of actinic radiation controllable to cure a definable portion of a volume of Reactive Mixture.
US09180632B2	Composite self-healing system An advanced reflexive structure system is disclosed. The reflexive system mimics the pain withdrawal reflex on which the human body relies. The reflexive system incorporates a continuous health and performance monitoring system via an embedded dielectric film, an adaptive composite structure based on shape memory composite material, and an intelligence system which will be interfaced with both the health/performance sensors and the adaptive structure. When activated shape memory polymer will recover its structural integrity via shape recovery and a reptation healing process. These features enable the use of SMP as an adaptive structure in the proposed reflexive system. The development of a reflexive system for structures will enable increased safety and security and demonstrate a better understanding of integrated performance systems. This reflexive technology could find immediate implementation on all current and future systems and future implementation on platforms such as the International Space Station, Lunar, and Martian habitats.
US09180627B2	Process for manufacturing articles in carbon fiber and article manufactured with this process The invention relates to a heat compression molding process for the manufacturing of composite material articles, the process comprising the steps of i) providing a mold (20) in which the negative shape (31, 32) of an article (30) to be manufactured is formed; ii) inserting into said mold (20) an SMC semi-finished product (10) comprising one or more sheets of composite material comprising a matrix of a heat-hardening resin and carbon fibers, the mold being pre-heated at a temperature suitable to allow the cure of said heat-hardening resin; iii) closing the mold (20) and carrying out a compression cycle in an autoclave according to a predefined time-pressure law; and iv) extracting the article (30), wherein the amount of SMC semi-finished product (10) inserted in the mold (20) is calculated by weighing on the basis of the volume of the article (30) to be manufactured. The size of the surfaces of the SMC semi-finished product (10) intended to contact the surfaces of the shape (31, 32) are calculated so as to cover said surfaces in a percentage comprised between 70 to 99%, in particular higher than 80% and less than or equal to 99%. Thanks to these characteristics it is possible to obtain manufactured articles substantially free from surface defects and suitable for both structural and aesthetic uses.
US09180624B2	Computer-implemented method for three-dimensional representation Disclosed is a computer-implemented method of arranging three-dimensional virtual designs configured to be manufactured as physical designs on a production batch, the method including: providing the virtual designs, where each virtual design is based on a three-dimensional representation of an object, and where at least a number of the virtual designs belongs to a group, where the virtual designs in a respective group satisfy at least one common criterion; and arranging the virtual designs relative to the production batch.
US09180623B1	System, method and article of manufacture for ballistic shielding A composite ballistic shielding material is formed utilizing ribbons of randomly-oriented film, laid up or woven in bias plies. The sheet plies are made narrow strips of PVC films are held side-by-side and rigidly framed as a square, into a thin layer, and then trimmed. The strips may be approximately 0.010″ wide. The formed up layer is then immersed in a low-hardness thermosetting liquid glue and laid down as a first ply. Subsequent plies are made by repeating the same process, and adding the step of rotating the frame to a pre-determined angle before laying down the ply onto the previous ply. When a pre-determined number of layers or a desired thickness is achieved, the lay-up is transferred to a press for curing into panels. The instant abstract is neither intended to define the invention disclosed in this specification nor intended to limit the scope of the invention in any way.
US09180622B2	Method and device for the transverse drawing of a material web The invention relates to a method for the transverse drawing of an unoriented or longitudinally-oriented film web made from thermoplastic plastic. According to said method, an undrawn or longitudinally-drawn film (8) is introduced into a transverse drawing frame in which heater fields (1) are heated to a transverse drawing temperature TQ, in the attached drawing fields (2) a clip chain is drawn in the transverse direction by divergent (V-shaped) guides and a temperature TF is applied to fixing fields where TQ>TF. In the drawing fields and/or the heating fields (1) the boundary zones (5) of the film (8) are heated or thermally insulated such that the boundary zones (5) of the film (8) have a higher temperature than the middle of the film web (6) on transverse drawing and/or fixing.
US09180621B2	Blow molding device A blow molding device includes a blow nozzle to be inserted tightly into a mouth tube section of preform when the preform is inserted in a mold. The blow molding device also includes a pressurized liquid feeding unit and feeds a pressurized liquid from the pressurized liquid feeding unit into the preform through the blow nozzle to form a container into an expanded shape along a cavity of the mold. A valve mechanism, provided at a downstream end of a feed channel for the liquid in the blow nozzle, can open and close the feed channel so that when the valve mechanism is in a closed state, the liquid circulates between the feed channel and the pressurized liquid feeding unit, and when the valve mechanism is in an open state, the pressurized liquid is fed through the feed channel into the preform.
US09180620B2	Medical balloons Medical devices, such as medical balloons, and methods of making the devices, are disclosed. In some embodiments, the balloons include a portion, e.g., a layer, that varies in thickness.
US09180616B2	Component part for an injection molding tool A component part for an injection molding tool comprises a distributor that includes the first distributor plate, with a top side and underside. The component part has at least two material pipes that are aligned crosswise in relation to the underside of the first distributor plate and connected on the underside to the first distributor plate. Each material pipe has a flow channel configured therein, with feed channels configured in the first distributor plate being open on the underside into the flow channels of the material pipes. The feed channels on the top side of the first distributor plate are configured as open and the first distributor plate is monolithically formed together with the material pipes. An injection molding tool can be used with the component part and a method of making the component part is disclosed.
US09180614B2	Method for producing a decorative part The invention relates to a method for producing a decorative part, comprising the method steps, in sequence, of: placing and locating a decorative element in a mold, applying an initially substantially liquid plastics coating over the entire surface of the decorative element, reinforcing the decorative element by solidifying the plastics coating, and subsequently applying a support structure to the substantially solidified plastics layer of the reinforced decorative element.
US09180613B2	Side actuated shooting pot An injection molding system having a shooting pot assembly is disclosed. In one embodiment, the shooting pot assembly is in fluid communication with a mold and has an actuation direction that is substantially perpendicular to an injection axis of material injected into a mold cavity. In another embodiment, a shooting pot actuation system is a mounted on a side of a hot runner. In certain embodiments, the shooting pot actuation system includes a linear actuator operatively coupled with the shooting pot assembly to actuate the shooting pot assembly.
US09180612B2	Device for assembling two parts made from thermoplastic materials by means of laser-transparent welding, assembly method and associated clamping fitting A device for assembling a first upper transparent part to a second lower absorbent part, the parts being positioned on a support. The device includes a mechanism projecting a laser beam onto the upper part, a first clamp geometrically referencing the assembly formed by the two parts and positioned on the support, a second clamp exerting a pre-determined stress on the assembly of parts, and a management system associated with the second clamp, adjusting the stress exerted at a pre-determined welding interface. An assembly method is intended for laser-transparent welding of two parts assembled using one such assembly device. The clamping fitting is configured to apply the stress exerted at the welding interface.
US09180611B2	Compression-forming system A compression-forming system comprising a molten resin mass-feeding device equipped with the holding portions for holding the molten resin masses, a compression-forming machine equipped with the metal molds, and a molten resin mass position detector, wherein said molten resin mass position detector is a temperature sensor, and said temperature sensor measures the temperature of a portion on the outer side of an allowable range in which the molten resin masses are fed to the metal molds, and judges the presence of the molten resin masses on said portion by the temperature of said portion of the metal molds to detect that the molten resin masses are defectively handed over.
US09180610B2	Devices and processes for fabricating multi-component optical systems The present disclosure relates to devices and processes for fabricating a multi-component optical system. A device is an integral mold comprising an attachment portion and a cup portion having a cavity, and the mold further comprises a first optical component. The cavity of the mold contains additional optical components to form a multi-component optical system blank. Another device is a multi-component optical system blank. A process for fabricating a multi-component optical system blank comprises providing an integral mold comprising a first optical component, adding at least a second optical component, shaping the mold after addition of an optical component, and shaping the resultant blank into an optical system. A further device is a multi-component optical system produced in a process disclosed herein.
US09180607B2	Mold and method for molding resin foamed molding Provided is a mold configured to properly exhaust gas from a cavity and to prevent resin from entering into a vent hole, and a method for molding resin foamed molding using the mold. The mold (1) includes lower mold (2), upper mold (4), and core mold (3). The core mold (3) is provided at wall portions (3b), (3c) thereof with respective vent holes (6). Annexed members (7) are detachably attached to the outer surface sides of wall portions (3b), (3c). Each of the annexed members (7) has a tubular shape having an air passage in communication with the vent hole, and a sectional dimension smaller than that of vent hole (6). A nonwoven cloth (10) is attached to core mold (3) so as to cover each surface thereof facing the cavity, and cover wall portions (3b), (3c), thereby covering vent hole (6) from the cavity side.
US09180606B2	Method for preparing pre-form materials A pre-form and a method of preparing pre-forms are provided. The pre-forms comprise a resin and at least three layers of oriented fiber tows. The pre-forms comprise fiber tows instead of the traditional prepregs to enhance rearranging of resin and/or fibers during subsequent processing as well as provide greater freedom, a price reduction and/or a reduction of waste. The pre-forms may be formed three-dimensionally to enhance coupling to further pre-forms or other structures and/or to enhance shaping of the pre-form to a final three-dimensional shape. The method of preparation of pre-forms involves providing an adhesive between layers of fibers and providing a resin in contact with at least one of the layers of fibers. The resin is preferably provided in a non-continuous layer to allow for removal of gas at least partially in a direction orthogonal to the layers of resin. Advantageously, during manufacturing, the fibers are placed with an exact start and ending location, thereby avoiding waste. The pre-forms are suitable for preparation of composite structures like for example spars for wind turbine blades.
US09180594B2	Tool for a microtechnical clip The present invention relates to a tool for a microtechnical gripper. The tool of the invention includes a tip having a support and first and second fingers disposed opposite one another in a chosen position. Each finger is connected to the support by a connecting element so as to be held in a rest position corresponding to the chosen position, the connecting element being flexible in order to allow the fingers to move with at least one degree of freedom relative to the support.
US09180592B2	Piston supply apparatus and piston supply method A piston supply apparatus includes a piston gripping portion and a piston supply portion. The piston supply portion includes a connecting rod gripping unit gripping the connecting rod of the piston placed in a preparation area, a guide member abutting against a skirt portion of the piston to match an axial direction of the piston with a predetermined specified direction, a moving unit moving the gripping unit from the preparation area to a supply position in air, and a pivoting unit making the gripping unit pivot such that the piston top portion of the piston in a downward state is set in an upward state. The piston supply apparatus further includes a pressing unit pressing the piston top portion of the piston made to pivot to the upward state against the guide member.
US09180590B1	Tool hanger A tool hanger for at least carrying at least one socket is provided, including a main body and a combination member. The main body is formed with a hanging portion at one end and includes a first surface, a second surface and two lateral surfaces. Each of the two lateral surfaces is formed with at least one securing portion for assembling with the sockets. The combination member is pivoted to the main body and formed with two stopping members respectively on two ends. The combination member is rotatable relative to the main body so as to selectively close to or move away from the second surface. Wherein when the combination member is close to the second surface, the stopping member is located oppositely to and blocks one end of the socket opposite to the securing member so that the socket is undetachable from the securing portion.
US09180589B2	Drop and drive tool An ergonomic earth-working device includes a horizontal handle having a grip with an outer grip, an inner grip and an inner grip interface. The outer grip's ribbed and contoured surface provides easy grasping, while the inner grip interface connects the grip and handle. The handle connects at one end to a curved upper portion having an arc angle. The curved upper portion also connects to an angled portion vertical portion with an angle offset. The angled vertical portion also connects to a vertical shaft, which is perpendicular to a ground plane and removably attaches to a contoured tool member. The configuration of the horizontal handle, curved upper portion, angled portion and vertical shaft, as well as the location of the grip on the horizontal handle, provide an ergonomic advantage allowing users to direct an earth-working force and the contoured tool member straight down rather than at an angle.
US09180588B2	Handgrip A handgrip device configured to be removably coupled to a bicycle handlebar. The handgrip device may include a first portion that includes an opening with a center axis. The opening may be configured to receive a portion of a handle that includes a center rotational axis such that the center rotational axis is substantially aligned with the center axis of the first portion. The handgrip device may also include a second portion that is coupled to and fixed with respect to the first portion. The second portion may include a proximal end that is coupled to the first portion and a distal end that may extend away from the proximal end. The second portion may also include a first concaved side coupled between the proximal and distal ends. The first concaved side may face a first direction that is substantially perpendicular to the center axis of the first portion.
US09180586B2	Handle assembly for power tool A handle assembly for a power tool is disclosed. The handle assembly includes a base adapted to be mounted to a body of a power tool, and a handle having first and second mounting portions pivotably mounted to respective ends of the base. An elongate torsion spring has a first part mounted to the base and a respective second part mounted to each mounting portion such that pivoting of the handle relative to the base member causes twisting of the torsion member to resiliently oppose pivoting of the handle relative to the base portion.
US09180579B2	Combination screwdriver A combination screwdriver includes a handle having a receiving chamber, a fixed plate secured in the receiving chamber of the handle, a push button movably mounted in the receiving chamber of the handle, a compression spring mounted in the receiving chamber of the handle and biased between the fixed plate and the push button, a tool holder movably mounted in the receiving chamber of the handle and holding a plurality of tips, and a restoring spring mounted in the receiving chamber of the handle and biased between the fixed plate and the tool holder. Thus, the tool holder is sprung outward and partially protruded from the handle by pressing the push button to expose the tips for selection of the user so that the user can take and operate the tips easily and quickly.
US09180576B2	Hose clamp pliers A pair of hose clamp pliers for clamping a hose is provided with two clamping plates. The pliers include two clamping ends capable of moving toward or away from each other. The two clamping plates are fixedly connected to the two clamping ends and provided with movement guide protrusions and movement stop protrusions. With the protrusions formed along the periphery of the two clamping plates and the gaps defined by the protrusions, the hose clamp pliers can clamp the hose clamp in different directions, so that it can be adapted to different work requirements or environments, for example, in a narrow space. Further, the movement guide protrusions and movement stop protrusions restrict the hose clamp in two different directions, so as to improve clamping stability.
US09180571B2	Grinder/polisher An improved grinder/polisher includes a base having a bowl, a rotating drive plate and a drive plate drive that is adapted to support a platen. The grinder/polisher includes a head configured to support a specimen holder. The head has a first drive for rotational drive of the specimen holder and a second drive for moving the specimen holder toward and away from the drive plate. The head includes a load cell operably connected to the first drive and a counter operably connected to the second drive. The counter is configured to determine movement and the extent of movement of the head toward and away from the drive plate. The grinder/polisher includes a control panel mounted within a housing and including a microprocessor controlled control system having a touch panel or screen.
US09180564B2	Device for securing a cap screw to an element that is to be attached to another element The cap screw (1) has a threaded portion (1b) having a nominal diameter (D1) that is greater than the diameter (D3) of its shank. The device comprises an anti-creep ring (4) designed to receive screw (1), one end of which has features (4a-4b-4c-4d) suitable for delineating, before ring (4) is engaged in a recess (2a) of element (2) that is to be screw fastened, a circular area having a diameter (D) that is greater than the nominal diameter (D1) of threaded portion (1b) and, after said ring (4) has been engaged in said recess (2a), a circular area (D) having a diameter (D2) that is less than the nominal diameter (D1) of threaded portion (1b), but greater than the diameter (D3) of shank (1a), so as to act as a stop for said threaded portion and trap screw (1) in ring (4) while permitting limited movement of the screw.
US09180556B2	Auxiliary clamping system for welding operation An auxiliary clamping system for welding operation includes a pair of pliers, and a resilient clamp set in between two jaws of the pliers for enabling hooks of the jaws to hook in respective hook holes of flat clamping arms of the inserted resilient clamp such that if the handle levers of the pliers are not squeezed, the jaws are closed and the retaining tips at the free ends of the flat clamping arms of the resilient clamp touch each other; if the handle levers of the pliers are squeezed, the jaws are opened and the retaining tips at the free ends of the flat clamping arms of the resilient clamp are kept apart from each other.
US09180552B2	System and method for identifying defects in welds by processing X-ray images Disclosed is a system and method for identifying a defect in a weld joint through an X-Ray image. An image capturing module captures the X-Ray image of the weld joint. The X-Ray image comprises dark areas and bright areas. An image processing module executes a gamma correction algorithm on the X-Ray image by using a standard power law transform in order to enhance contrast of the dark areas and the bright areas. The image processing module further passes the X-Ray image through one or more de-noising filters in order to remove noise from the X-Ray image. An analysis module identifies a fragment of the X-Ray image that comprises one or more dark area with respect to neighboring areas adjacent to the one or more dark area. The analysis module further segments the X-Ray image into one or more segments in order to identify the defect in the weld joint.
US09180551B2	Dual laser head A laser machine tool for the machining of workpieces by laser ablation comprising a moveable dual laser head (4). The laser machine tool has a dual laser head (4) intended for the emission of laser beams, whereby the laser head (4) incorporates in its housing two or more laser sources (8), each laser source emitting a different type of laser beams and whereby the two or more laser sources (8) incorporated in the laser head (4) cannot operate simultaneously for the machining of the workpiece.
US09180550B2	Heat treatment apparatus for heating substrate by light irradiation The temperature of a semiconductor wafer is raised by light irradiation heating performed by halogen lamps. An infrared ray emitted from the semiconductor wafer whose temperature has been raised transmits through an infrared-transparent window made of silicon, and then is detected by an infrared camera. The infrared camera two-dimensionally detects the temperature of an entire surface of the semiconductor wafer. Based on a result of the detection obtained by the infrared camera, a temperature drop region having a relatively low temperature among the region of the semiconductor wafer is irradiated with laser light emitted from a laser light emission part. Accordingly, without rotating the semiconductor wafer, a temperature distribution can be made uniform with a high accuracy throughout the entire surface of the semiconductor wafer.
US09180547B2	Robotic welder having fume extraction A method for extracting fumes from a robotic welder is disclosed. The method includes controlling a robotic welder to produce a weld and extracting fumes produced by the robotic welder via a vacuum source. The method also includes selectively varying the vacuum source as a function of the position of the robotic welder.
US09180546B2	Welding tool A welding torch for gas tungsten arc welding, the welding torch including a torch head and a torch handle. The torch head includes a hollow inner body in electrical contact with one terminal of an electric power source, the inner body having an interior through which an axially positioned electrode extends, a free end of the electrode projecting beyond an electrode contact region of the inner body, and there being an inner gas chamber defined above the contact region within the interior of the inner body about the electrode. The torch head also includes a collet that provides the contact region where the inner body is in positive electrical contact with the electrode above the electrode free end, a gas shroud extending around but spaced from the electrode free end to define an outer gas chamber that allows, in use, gas to shield the electrode free end, and means for circulating coolant about or above the contact region to extract heat from the contact region. The inner body also includes at least one gas port allowing shielding gas to pass from the inner gas chamber to the outer gas chamber.
US09180545B2	Wire feeder with electrode power routing An apparatus is provided which is a wire feeder for a welding operation having two or more wire driving devices and a switching device which directs the welding current to the appropriate wire driving device for a welding operation.
US09180542B2	Tractor unit drive gear engagement device A travel drive gear engagement mechanism for a tractor unit includes a clutch lever that has a cam portion. The clutch lever is configured to rotate between a first position and a second position at a point that is offset from a center of an elongated portion of the cam portion. The engagement mechanism also includes a connecting member that operatively connects the cam portion of the clutch lever to a drive gear of a tractor unit. The connecting member is operatively connected to the cam portion at the offset point. The clutch level and connecting member are configured such that the drive gear engages a track gear when the clutch lever is in the first position and disengages from the track gear when the clutch lever is in the second position.
US09180541B2	Rotational-flow spray nozzle and process of using same A solder-flux composition is sprayed onto a substrate by rotating the solder-flux composition inside a spray cap, and before the solder-flux liquid exits the spray cap, perturbing the flow thereof with a fluid.
US09180540B1	Hot bar soldering A solar cell module comprises a solar cell die that is soldered to a substrate. The substrate comprises one or more power contacts. A power conductor is soldered to a power contact, thereby electrically coupling the power conductor to the solar cell die. A pre-heat module heats a first side of the substrate at a first area to a first temperature for a first duration. Then, a solder heat source solders a power conductor to a power contact at a second area of the substrate at a second temperature for a second duration. The resulting solder connection at the power conductor is less prone to cold-solder defects. The temperature of the pre-heat module is controlled to promote curing of an RTV sealant used in the manufacture of the solar cell module. The temperature of the solder heat source is controlled to avoid burning and degrading of the RTV sealant.
US09180539B1	Method of and system for dressing RF shield pads A radio-frequency (RF) shield pad is “dressed” by automatically removing melted solder from the shield pad by traversing a pattern of the shield pad. After an RF shield has been removed from a shield pad of a printed circuit board (PCB), the PCB is pre-heated to a temperature sufficient to heat solder on the shield pad and to prevent thermally stressing the PCB during the dressing process. The solder is melted, such as by a heated tip of a desoldering tool, and the melted solder is vacuumed while the tip automatically traverses the pattern of the shield pad, until all or a threshold amount of the melted solder has been removed from the shield pad. After the PCB has been reworked, solder paste is automatically disposed on the RF-shield pad, the RF shield is temporarily mounted on the RF-shield pad, and the PCB is processed in a reflow oven, thereby securely attaching the RF shield to the PCB.
US09180536B2	Device and method for machining bevel gears using an eccentrically moved grinding tool A device has a work piece spindle for accommodating a bevel gear work piece, a tool spindle for accommodating a grinding wheel having an abrasive surface, and a plurality of drives for machining the bevel gear work piece. During machining of the bevel gear work piece, the grinding wheel rotates about the rotational axis of the tool spindle and engages the bevel gear work piece to remove material. The rotation is superimposed with an eccentric movement such that the grinding wheel only engages the bevel gear work piece at n contact regions of the abrasive surface. The device is configured to allow adjustment of the eccentric movement after a first machining phase and to specify m contact regions of the abrasive surface in a further machining pase, wherein the m contact regions do not overlap with the n contact regions.
US09180533B2	Round cutting insert with serrated topography A cutting insert with a serrated topography includes a top surface terminating in a circular cutting edge, a bottom surface and a frusto-conical sidewall interconnecting the top surface and the bottom surface, and a plurality of serrations on the top surface uniformly disposed around the circular cutting edge and extending radially inward from the cutting edge in such a way that a bisector through each serration passes through a central axis of the cutting insert. The plurality of serrations are positioned in a cutting tool in such a way so as to reduce regenerative chatter during a cutting operation. A method of reducing generative chatter by positioning the cutting inserts in a particular fashion in a cutting tool is also disclosed.
US09180529B1	Drilling system using a pocket hole joint method A drilling system for joining pieces of wood using a pocket hole joint method features a first wood block having a planar first wood block mating surface and a second wood block having as planer second wood block mating surface and a second wood block drilling surface. A pocket having a cylindrical side wall and a planar front wall is angularly located on the second wood block drilling surface. The system features a drilling unit having a cylindrical outer sleeve and a cylindrical inner sleeve with a cylindrical shaft located in the inner sleeve. A drill bit is located on a shaft first end. A drill is activated to rotate the drill bit while a user applies force to the drill for pushing the drill bit through the second wood block into the first wood block.
US09180526B2	Manually operated chuck A manually operated chuck for machining of rotationally symmetrical workpieces, the chuck comprising: a base body, attached to clamping jaws radially movable on the base body for securing the workpiece and in which an opening extends at right angles to a longitudinal axis of the base body; a threaded spindle movably mounted in the opening and accessed from outside to change the position, thereof; a wedge bar in the base body proximate the spindle, the wedge bar being connected to the spindle and a clamping jaw in a shape-locking arrangement; a driving ring rotationally mounted in the base body and connected to the threaded spindle and to one of the wedge bars with play between the threaded spindle and driving ring, and/or the threaded spindle and a wedge bar, and/or between the driving ring and wedge bars of the clamping jaws, the workpiece disposed concentrically to a longitudinal axis of the chuck.
US09180524B2	Fly-cutting head, system and method, and tooling and sheeting produced therewith A fly-cutting system is disclosed, and in particular one that comprises a dynamically-controllable actuator for controlling the position, orientation, or both position and orientation of a cutting element carried by a fly-cutting head. In certain embodiments, the actuator can adjust the position or orientation of a cutting element, or both, hundreds or thousands of times per second, enabling precise control over the shape of features formed by the cutting element in a surface of a workpiece.
US09180523B2	Parting and grooving tool with clamping arrangements A parting and grooving tool includes a toolholder and a cutting insert. The toolholder has a toolholder body including a main body portion and an elastic clamping arm that define an insert-receiving pocket. The pocket has a top surface formed by the clamping arm and a bottom surface formed by the main body portion for contacting a top and a bottom surface of a cutting insert. The toolholder body includes a second arm, the second arm and the clamping arm defining a slot. A threaded hole extends through the second arm to the slot. The toolholder has a screw having threads that mate with threads in the threaded hole so that the clamping arm is movable into and out of contact with the top surface of the insert. An axis of the threaded hole is substantially perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the insert-receiving pocket and intersects the cutting insert.
US09180516B2	Roller press bimetallic annular casing A profiled binding for use in a roller press. An alloy containing a high degree of chromium is used. A high wear-resistance of the binding is thereby achieved, said binding not being sensitive with respect to build-up weldings in order to reconstruct the profile after wear.
US09180510B2	Electric riveter Provided is an electric riveter including a housing internally provided with a drive unit configured to drive an actuator that withdraws a mandrel from a rivet, and a mandrel collector that collects mandrels. The actuator includes a cover having a proximal end coupled to the housing, a nozzle provided at a distal end of the cover, and a jaw provided in the cover. The drive unit includes an electric motor that drives the actuator. The housing includes a drive housing unit connected to a handle having a rod shape. The electric motor is arranged at a position deviated from the center of grip of the handle in a direction about an axis line extending along the center line of the cover.
US09180505B2	Water injection controller, water injection control method, and water injection control program for rolling lines A water injection controller and method usable in rolling lines using stored cooling water to cool a material. A cooling water usage predictor predicts, for a respective prescribed prediction cycle, usage of cooling water in a prescribed prediction target period. A constrained running condition predictor takes the predicted cooling water usage to predict a required running condition of a pump system in the prediction target period meeting a prescribed constraint condition. An energy consumption calculator takes the predicted running condition of the pump system to calculate an energy quantity to be consumed. An optimizer determines an optimal energy quantity to be consumed among plural energy quantities to be consumed under changed running conditions of the pump system. A pump system running controller controls running of the pump system having as a target value therefor a running condition of the pump system requiring the optimal quantity of energy to be consumed.
US09180498B2	Beverage bottling plant configured to fill already used, returned, returnable beverage bottles which includes a cleaning machine, and a cleaning machine A beverage bottling plant configured to fill already used, returned, returnable beverage bottles which includes a cleaning machine, and a cleaning machine configured to clean used, returnable, cleanable containers in a container filling plant. The abstract of the disclosure is submitted herewith as required by 37 C.F.R. §1.72(b). As stated in 37 C.F.R. §1.72(b): A brief abstract of the technical disclosure in the specification must commence on a separate sheet, preferably following the claims, under the heading “Abstract of the Disclosure.” The purpose of the abstract is to enable the Patent and Trademark Office and the public generally to determine quickly from a cursory inspection the nature and gist of the technical disclosure. The abstract shall not be used for interpreting the scope of the claims. Therefore, any statements made relating to the abstract are not intended to limit the claims in any manner and should not be interpreted as limiting the claims in any manner.
US09180496B2	Water blasting head with through feeding hydraulic motor Briefly, disclosed is an ultra high pressure blasting head for a mobile marking removal system. The blasting head includes a hydraulic motor that is constructed and arranged for direct connection to a spray bar for controlled rotation thereof. The output shaft of the hydraulic motor is constructed to be hollow or tubular so that the ultra high pressure water can be supplied to the spray bar through the output shaft. The spray head assembly is particularly suited for mobile systems utilized to remove markings and/or coatings from surfaces with high or ultra high pressure liquid.
US09180495B2	Display surface cleaning system A display surface cleaning system which includes a display surface cleaning assembly which can be utilized discrete from or coupled proximate a user interactive display surface of a device and methods of using such display surface cleaning assembly.
US09180488B2	Fuser manufacture and article According to an embodiment a method of making a fuser member is described. The method includes, obtaining a silicone layer disposed on a substrate and coating a primer composition including an aqueous dispersion of a fluorelastomer and a curing agent on the silicone layer. A topcoat composition is coated on the primer composition which includes a fluoroplastic dispersion. The primer composition and the topcoat composition are heated to form the fuser member.
US09180486B2	Method for preparing a porous anti-reflection thin film composed of hollow polymeric nanoparticles A method for preparing a porous anti-reflective thin film composed of hollow polymer nano-particles is provided in the following steps: Firstly, an aqueous dispersion having mass percent of 3-7% is prepared using polymer nano-capsules. A thin film comprising polymer nano-capsules is formed by spin coating on one side or both sides of the substrate using a spin coater. The thin film comprising polymer nano-capsules is dried in vacuum at high temperature. After the core materials of the polymer nano-capsules evaporate completely, the polymer nano-capsules turn into hollow polymer nano-particles, and a porous anti-reflective thin film composed of hollow polymer nano-particles is prepared. The thickness and refractive index of the thin film are adjusted conveniently and effectively by changing the concentration of polymer nano-capsules aqueous dispersion and the hollow volume rate of the polymer nano-particles. The thin film has the advantages of high mechanical intensity and abrasion resistance.
US09180485B2	Methods and apparatuses for coating balloon catheters Methods and apparatus for coating a medical device are provided. In one embodiment, the method for preparing a substantially uniform coated medical device includes (1) preparing a coating solution comprising a solvent, a therapeutic agent, and an additive; (2) loading a metering dispenser with the coating solution; (3) rotating the medical device about the longitudinal axis of the device and/or moving the medical device along the longitudinal or transverse axis of the device; (4) dispensing the coating solution from the metering dispenser onto a surface of the medical device and flowing the coating solution on the surface of the medical device while the medical device is rotating and/or linearly moving; and (5) evaporating the solvent, forming a substantially uniform coating layer on the medical device.
US09180479B1	Painting apparatus A painting apparatus for applying paint to a painting surface within a narrow space. The painting apparatus includes a handle portion, an applicator portion and an applicator material. The handle portion is configured to prevent a user's hand from moving with respect to the handle portion while grasping the handle portion. The applicator portion is attached to the handle portion. The applicator material is arranged relative to an external surface of the applicator portion for applying paint to the painting surface.
US09180477B2	Color changer A color changer includes a valve module with a first interaction area and a plurality of valves. The valves are connected on their respective inlet side to a respective supply duct and are connected on their respective outlet side to a common collecting duct. The valves are openable and closeable via respective switches by a first actuation end discharging into the first interaction area. The color changer includes a switching module with a second interaction area and one actuator, which discharges by a second actuation end into the second interaction area. The valve and switching modules are arranged with their respective interaction areas adjacent and are displaceable relative to one another. Due to a respective displacement movement, the second actuation end is simultaneously movable with respect to at most one of the first actuation ends into a respective actuation position so that the actuator opens or closes the corresponding valve.
US09180475B2	Liquid-container equipped with rotary discharger The present invention relates to a liquid-container equipped with a rotary discharger for discharging liquid whilst rotating. To this end, the present invention comprises: a main housing; a rotating shoulder section which is rotatably connected to the main housing; a moving cam section which is provided on the rotating shoulder section and which moves up/down in accordance with the rotation of the rotating shoulder section; a moving container section which is provided in the main housing, is connected to and moves with the moving cam section, and is provided with liquid therein; a pumping device section which is provided inside the moving cam section, and which both rotates the rotating shoulder section and moves the moving cam section up/down and thus causes the liquid to flow in or be discharged according to the pressure; a discharge cover section, which is connected to the pumping device section and has a discharge opening/closing section that opens and closes according to the pressure from the pumping device section; and an elastic member which is provided between the moving cam section and the discharge cover section, and which has an elasticity that allows the up/down movement of the moving cam.
US09180474B2	Dispensing mechanism and a dispenser A dispensing mechanism for a liquid container is arranged in liquid communication with an outlet mechanism. The dispensing mechanism is adapted to translate a user force applied to a user operated portion into a transfer force applied from a user lever to an actuation part. A relationship between a first length and a second length forms a lever ratio. The first length extends from a first pivot axis to a user operated portion and the second length extends from the first pivot axis to a point of action of the transfer force on the actuation part. The lever ratio is adapted to increase from a non-actuated position over at least the first 50% of a dispensing stroke of the actuation part such that the transfer force increases over the at least first 50% of the dispensing stroke when a constant force is applied to the user operated portion.
US09180472B2	Paint sprayer A sprayer can include a sprayer body, a reservoir coupled to the sprayer body, a cleaning fluid reservoir coupled to the sprayer body and a pump assembly arranged within the sprayer body and coupled to the reservoir and the cleaning fluid reservoir. The pump assembly can include a pump barrel that defines a central aperture, a piston arranged within the central aperture, a solenoid coupled to the piston and configured to reciprocate the piston within the central aperture during operation of the sprayer, and a manifold assembly coupled to the pump barrel and including a valve member movable between a first position and a second position. The valve member can fluidly couple the central aperture with the reservoir in the first position and fluidly couple the central aperture with the cleaning fluid reservoir in the second position.
US09180467B2	Continuously operating centrifuge A continuously operating centrifuge for centrifuging sugar massecuites has an upwardly flaring conical sieve basket (20) which rotates about a vertical axis (16). A product distributor (40) flares downwardly and extends into the bottom region of the sieve basket (20). The product distributor (40) is substantially coaxial with respect to the sieve basket (20), has a discharge rim and rotates about the same vertical axis (16) as the sieve basket (20). Within and in the upper region of the product distributor (40), there is provided a distributor pot (30) which serves as a feeding device for the sugar massecuites in the axial region of the centrifuge. The peripheral wall of the product distributor (40) is divided up into a plurality of ring elements (41, 42, 43) which overlap in the direction of the axis (16) and the internal diameters of which differ from each other. A bell (50) surrounds the product distributor (40) and flares conically downwardly. A device (61, 62) incorporating air directing elements is provided between at least two of the ring elements (41, 42, 43) of the product distributor (40).
US09180466B2	Combination discharge reactor for oil smoke decomposition A combination discharge reactor for decomposing waste gas is disclosed is disclosed to include a housing with a gas inlet and gas outlets, and multiple processing units mounted in the housing. Each processing unit includes a support structure consisting of brackets and support rods, a rod electrode mounted in the bracket, and a tubular electrode mounted in the brackets and surrounding the rod electrode.
US09180464B2	Sorting apparatus for arthropods and method of use thereof There is provided an apparatus for sorting arthropod larvae and pupae and in particular, although not necessarily, to sorting arthropod pupae on the basis of size, especially in mosquitoes. The apparatus can contain two parallel bars pivotally mounted in a frame such that the distance between the bars is adjustable. Insect larvae and pupae may be inserted into a chamber with one side formed by the grid of bars and inserted into water to separate the different forms.
US09180461B2	Condensation-reducing incubation cover A cover for covering an array of sample tubes during an incubation process. The cover has an upper panel and protrusions extending downward from the upper panel. Each protrusion has an upper seal and a lower seal. The upper seal includes a first conical section that tapers from a first diameter that is larger than the inside diameter of a corresponding sample tube to a second diameter that is smaller than the inside diameter of the corresponding sample tube. The lower seal includes a cylindrical section extending downward from the bottom of the first conical section. The cylindrical section has a diameter selected to create a capillary seal, in the presence of a liquid, between the cylindrical section and an adjacent portion of an inner wall of the corresponding sample tube.
US09180460B2	Apparatus and method for transferring test tubes An apparatus has a) a flat, flexible test tube holder ring, and b) a mechanism to manipulate the angular orientation of the flat flexible test tube holder ring. The test tube holder ring includes: (1) an outer circumference, (2) an inner circumference, and (3) apertures to hold test tubes, wherein alternate apertures have circumferential walls to enable positioning the test tubes higher compared to their adjacent test tubes. The mechanism includes an engagement mechanism that orients the angle of the test tube holder ring. When the test tube holder ring is at one angle, the test tube holder ring is flat and planar, and when the test tube holder is at a different angle the test tube holder ring has a conical shape.
US09180458B2	Biosensor having identification information and apparatus for reading identification information of biosensor A biosensor is provided, including an identification information recording unit having identification information of the biosensor recorded thereon, where the identification information recording unit is a color tag that is attached on the biosensor and indicates the identification information by color, chroma of color, or arrangement pattern of colors. An apparatus for reading identification information of a biosensor is provided, including: a biosensor sensing unit detecting the biosensor; a light-emitting unit emitting light on an identification information recording unit when the biosensor sensing unit detects the biosensor, the identification information recording unit having the identification information of the biosensor recorded thereon; a light-receiving unit that receives the light emitted from the light-emitting unit, and reflected or refracted by or passing through the identification information recording section; and an identification information reading unit analyzing the light received by the light-receiving unit and reading the identification information of the biosensor.
US09180451B2	Fluidic cartridge for detecting chemicals in samples, in particular for performing biochemical analyses A fluidic cartridge for detecting chemicals, formed by a casing, hermetically housing an integrated device having a plurality of detecting regions to bind with target chemicals; part of a supporting element, bearing the integrated device; a reaction chamber, facing the detecting regions; a sample feeding hole and a washing feeding hole, self-sealingly closed; fluidic paths, which connect the sample feeding and washing feeding holes to the reaction chamber; and a waste reservoir, which may be fluidically connected to the reaction chamber by valve elements that may be controlled from outside. The integrated device is moreover connected to an interface unit carried by the supporting element, electrically connected to the integrated device and including at least one signal processing stage and external contact regions.
US09180450B2	Droplet manipulation system and method Methods are provided for manipulating droplets. The methods include providing the droplet on a surface comprising an array of electrodes and a substantially co-planer array of reference elements, wherein the droplet is disposed on a first one of the electrodes, and the droplet at least partially overlaps a second one of the electrodes and an intervening one of the reference elements disposed between the first and second electrodes. The methods further include activating the first and second electrodes to spread at least a portion of the droplet across the second electrode and deactivating the first electrode to move the droplet from the first electrode to the second electrode.
US09180448B2	Method and apparatus for identification of bacteria An automated system for identifying in a biological sample microorganisms and their antimicrobial susceptibility (AST). The system provided an automated platform for preparing, from a single biological sample, inoculates for both ID and AST. The system loads a plate for ID testing as samples are being prepared for AST testing. The system tracks the sample and the inoculates from the samples to link the test results to the sample and the patients from whom the sample was obtained.
US09180446B2	Manual dosing device A manual dosing device for dosing liquids on which a syringe or pipette tip can be releasably held. The manual dosing device includes an elongated frame as a support structure, a mechanism for releasably holding a syringe or pipette tip at the bottom end of the frame, a drive member that attached above the mechanism for releasably holding to the frame, a displacement member for displacing a fluid in the syringe or pipette tip that can be driven by the drive means and are connected to the mechanism for releasably holding, and a housing encasing the frame.
US09180445B2	Vacuum processing apparatus having a means for preventing counter-pressure between chambers Disclosed is a vacuum processing apparatus having a means for preventing counter-pressure between adjacent chambers, which comprises a process chamber, a transfer chamber, and a load lock chamber, comprising: a cassette chamber installed between the chambers, having slits formed at both opposite side surfaces to serve as a passage of a substrate; a vent detection part configured to detect a vent process in which a vent gas is injected into each chamber; a cassette chamber constant pressure inducing part comprising first and second bypass lines configured to connect each chamber and the cassette chamber and first and second intermittent valves respectively installed at the first and second bypass lines to control a gas flow through each bypass line; and a control part configured to determine whether the vent process or a vacuum process is performed in each chamber through a signal detected from the vent detection part.
US09180443B1	Imidazole-derived materials In the present disclosure, imidazole-derived materials including M-N-C catalysts, imidazole-derived MOFs and MOF-based M-N-C catalysts as well as methods for preparing the same utilizing mechanosynthesis and/or a sacrificial support-based methods are described.
US09180441B2	Method of forming zeolite shaped body with silica binder A method of forming a zeolite shaped body is carried out by preparing an aqueous mixture containing a zeolite, a silica binder material and an extrusion aid. The extrusion aid is at least one of PVAc-PVA1 (80-89) and polyacrylamide. The mixture is formed into a body having a selected shape. The shaped body is heated to form the zeolite shaped body.
US09180435B2	Process for the preparation of a catalyst using a rapid drying stage and use thereof for Fischer-Tropsch synthesis The present invention concerns a process for the preparation of a catalyst comprising an active phase comprising at least one metal from group VIII selected from cobalt, nickel, ruthenium and iron, alone or as a mixture, and an oxide support which can be used in a Fischer-Tropsch synthesis process comprises at least once the linked sequence of a stage for impregnation of said oxide support, a drying stage in which said impregnated oxide support is entrained by means of a gas, said impregnated oxide support being subjected in said stage to a temperature rise ramp of between 250 and 600° C./min, the residence time of said impregnated oxide support in said drying stage being between 1 second and 1 minute, and a stage for calcination of said dried impregnated oxide support. The invention also concerns a Fischer-Tropsch synthesis process using the catalyst prepared according to the preparation process.
US09180428B1	Methods of capturing and immobilizing radioactive nuclei with metal fluorite-based inorganic materials Methods of capturing and immobilizing radioactive nuclei with metal fluorite-based inorganic materials are described. For example, a method of capturing and immobilizing radioactive nuclei includes flowing a gas stream through an exhaust apparatus. The exhaust apparatus includes a metal fluorite-based inorganic material. The gas stream includes a radioactive species. The radioactive species is removed from the gas stream by adsorbing the radioactive species to the metal fluorite-based inorganic material of the exhaust apparatus.
US09180426B2	Scrubber for methanol production system An apparatus and method of producing methanol is provided that reacts a methane-containing gas and an oxygen-containing gas in a reactor to provide a product stream comprising methanol and formaldehyde. The product stream is scrubbed using a process component absorbent. After scrubbing the product stream, unprocessed methane gas is mixed with the methane-containing gas for reprocessing through the reactor while methanol and formaldehyde is sent to a rectification process for removal.
US09180421B2	Micro-channel water-gas shift reaction device having built-in flow-through-type metal catalyst The present invention relates to a micro-channel water-gas shift (WGS) reaction device for WGS for generating hydrogen and pre-combustion carbon capture and storage (CCS) from coal gasification, the device using a micro-channel heat exchanger and through-type metal catalyst capable of rapidly dissipating heat generated during single-stage WGS reaction of high concentration CO in a high temperature space.
US09180411B2	Apparatus and process for treatment of water The invention relates to the treatment of water, including for example treatment in connection with hydrocarbon production operations. Silica in water produces undesirable scaling in processing equipment, which causes excess energy usage and maintenance problems. Electrocoagulation (EC) at relatively high water temperature, followed by any of membrane distillation or forward osmosis (FO), may be combined with a subsequent process of ceramic ultra-filtration (UF filtration) employed to treat water. Water to be treated may be produced water that has been pumped from a subterranean reservoir. The treated water may be employed to generate steam. The treatment units (e.g., EC, forward osmosis, UF filtration, etc) can be configured into one system as an on-site installation or a mobile unit for on-site or off-site water treatment.
US09180404B2	Method for mist control A method for capturing CO2 from a CO2 containing gas (1), such as en exhaust gas from a thermal power plant fired on carbonaceous fuel, or any other CO2 containing industrial gas, where CO2 is captured from the gas by causing the gas to flow counter current to a CO2 absorbing solvent introduced into a CO2 absorption section (3) in an absorber (2) so that CO2 present in the gas is absorbed by the CO2 absorbing solvent to form a CO2 rich solvent (5), where CO2 rich solvent is collected on the bottom of the of the absorption column and withdrawn for regeneration, and where the treated exhaust gas (8) is released to the atmosphere after being subjected to one or more washing step(s) (6,7), wherein the temperature of the CO2 absorbing solvent (4) introduced into the CO2 absorption section has a temperature that is less than 5° C. lower than the maximum temperature in the absorption section of the absorber, is described.
US09180401B2	Liquid, slurry and flowable powder adsorption/absorption method and system utilizing waste heat for on-board recovery and storage of CO2 from motor vehicle internal combustion engine exhaust gases A method and system are described for on-board treatment of an exhaust stream containing CO2 emitted by a hydrocarbon-fueled internal combustion engine (ICE) used to power a vehicle in order to reduce the amount of CO2 discharged into the atmosphere which include: a. a treatment zone on board the vehicle containing a capture agent that is a liquid, a slurry or a finely divided flowable solid having a predetermined capacity for extracting CO2 from the exhaust stream, the treatment zone having an inlet for admitting the exhaust gas stream and an outlet for passage of a treated exhaust stream to contact the capture agent having a reduced CO2 content, the treatment zone including a heat exchanger with an inlet for receiving the hot exhaust gas stream from the ICE for passage in heat exchange relation with the capture agent to release CO2 and regenerate the capture agent, and an outlet for the cooled exhaust gas stream, the treatment zone having a CO2 discharge outlet for CO2 released from the regenerated capture agent; b. a compression zone in fluid communication with the CO2 discharge outlet from the treatment zone, the compression zone including one or more compressors for reducing the volume of the CO2; c. a storage zone for receiving the compressed CO2 for temporary storage on board the vehicle; d. an exhaust gas conduit in fluid communication with the treated exhaust gas stream outlet from the treatment zone; and e. at least one waste heat recovery zone for recovery of heat energy from the exhaust gas stream, the ICE cooling system and/or directly from the ICE for conversion to electrical or mechanical energy.
US09180397B2	Fluid flow filter and method of making and using A filter well suited for paint arrestor usage having a monolithic high loft manmade fiber body with a convoluted flow contact surface. The filter is preferably formed by a convoluter as in one with a roller set and blade cutter to form mirror image fiber filter sheets from a received fiber batt. Provided is a well mixed proper fiber blend, such as one having a set of fibers made of a majority of course fibers joined by way of thermal bonding fibers which facilitate, during convoluting, formation of a crisp cut and high integrity three dimensional surface, as in one of rows of peaks separated by valleys. The projection/recess arrangement over the flow contact surface as well as the thickness and relative projection-to-base dimensions are arranged to provide a high paint holding capacity without too fast a load up of, for example, paint particles and while avoiding too great of a pressure drop within that load up time.
US09180396B2	Air cleaner An air cleaner includes a filter element, which includes a sheet-like filter material having pleats, a housing accommodating the filter element, and an inlet and an outlet, which are provided on the wall of the housing. The wall of the housing includes a first wall portion and a second wall portion, which face each other and are each arranged on one of the ends of the filter element in the direction in which ridges of the pleats extend. A guide piece, which extends along the ridges, is provided in the housing between the inlet and the filter element. The guide piece forms a clearance between the guide piece and the second wall portion, and guides the air that has passed through the clearance toward the first wall portion.
US09180392B2	Mixed-fiber nonwoven fabric and filter medium using the same A nonwoven fabric includes mixed fibers having different fiber diameters. A group of fibers having a fiber diameter of 5.0 μm or less (fiber group A) is present at a volume fraction of 20 to 80 vol %, a group of fibers having a fiber diameter of 50.0 μm or more (fiber group B) is present at a volume fraction of 1 to 40 vol %, and a group of fibers having a fiber diameter of more than 5.0 μm and less than 50.0 μm (fiber group C) is present at a volume fraction of 0 to 79 vol %. The ratio of the median fiber diameter (B′) of fiber group B to the median fiber diameter (A′) of fiber group A (B′/A′) is 35 or more.
US09180385B2	Cold trap and method of controlling cold trap A cold trap includes two individually controllable cooling units. The cold trap is provided in an evacuation path for connecting a vacuum chamber to a turbomolecular pump, The first cooling unit includes a first panel unit provided in the evacuation path such that the panel is exposed, and a first refrigerator thermally coupled to the first panel unit so as to cool the first panel unit. The second cooling unit includes a second panel unit provided in the evacuation path such that the panel is exposed, and a second refrigerator thermally coupled to the second panel unit so as to cool the second panel unit. The first panel unit is spaced apart from the second panel unit.
US09180381B2	Collapsible toy apparatus A toy apparatus has a primary structure with components movably coupled together, and a target movably coupled to the primary structure. Repeated impacts on the target move the target from an initial position to a critical position. When the target reaches the critical position, the primary structure is released from a first state to a second state in which the components of the primary structure are at least partially displaced from each other.
US09180379B2	Toy top A top which can facilitate the coupling of a winder is provided. The toy top comprises: a blade; a shaft of which one end is fixed to a lower portion of the blade; a pinion to be inserted and coupled to the middle of the shaft; and a shaft holder capable of accommodating the pinion-coupled shaft in a rotating manner, wherein the shaft holder comprises winder connectors (for rotating the pinion. Particularly, the winder connectors comprise: a cut portion for contacting a part of a first portion of a winder on a lateral side; and a guide groove for allowing a second portion extended from the first portion of the winder to be stopped at stepped protrusions inside the cut portion so as to prevent the second portion from being separated from the lateral side when a part of the first portion of the winder is contacted to a lateral side and then the winder is moved to the lateral side.
US09180376B2	Game system, game apparatus, storage medium storing game program and game data exchange method A game system including a plurality of mobile game apparatuses, and a mobile game apparatus that can communicate with another game apparatus that exists within a communicable range by use of a radio communications unit. When a communicated state is established, exchanging conditions for exchanging game data are received and transmitted, and in a case the exchange conditions are coincident with each other, the game data are exchanged.
US09180375B2	Server device and non-transitory computer-readable record medium An object of the present invention is to raise a player's interest in an operation of a mission screen in a social game. A server device configured to be connected over a network to a user terminal, the server device configured to control a game that progresses as a player accomplishes given missions, the server device includes: a screen data generation unit configured to generate data of a mission screen in response to a request from the user terminal operated by the player, the mission screen having displayed thereon a plurality of mission progress buttons for causing the missions to progress; and a response process unit configured to perform a process of causing a predetermined event to occur in response to an input from the player through any of the plurality of mission progress buttons.
US09180371B2	Game device, game device control method, program, and information storage medium To provide a game device capable of assisting a user to make a pass to a teammate player character in a game performed between a user character group operated by the user and an opponent character group. A setting unit sets a plurality of positions in an area around a character holding the moving object as receiving position candidates for another character to receive a pass. A receiving position selecting unit selects at least one of the receiving position candidates, based on the position of a character belonging to the opponent character group. A character selecting unit selects a character corresponding to the receiving position candidate from among the player characters belonging to the user character group other than the character holding the moving object. A character control unit moves the character corresponding to the selected receiving position candidate toward a position based on the selected receiving position candidate.
US09180360B2	Pin-setting apparatus for bowling or skittle lanes The invention relates to a pin-setting apparatus for bowling or skittle lanes (3′-6′) comprising a plurality of pins (3-6), wherein each pin is connected to an associated string (3′-6′). The apparatus comprises for each pin (3-6) a rotatable pulley (13-16) arranged to roll up and/or off the associated string (3′-6′) and detecting means arranged to detect a movement of the pin (3-6) when hit directly or indirectly by a bowling ball, and activating means arranged to rotate the pulley (13-16) so as to roll off the string (3′-6′) as soon as the pin (3-6) gets hit. This way, the pin (3-6) will not be obstructed by possible tension in the string (3′-6′) and will move as if it was not attached at all.
US09180358B2	Snow glide board The invention relates to a snow glide board, especially a ski, having a glide board body with one forward and one rear glide board body end and with a middle glide board section forming a binding section for fastening at least one binding and/or binding plate. The glide board body being designed at least in a partial section on its top side facing away from one glide surface three-dimensionally with a raised section extending in a first axis direction (X axis) corresponding to a glide board longitudinal direction, the raised section is adjoined in a second axis direction (Y axis) toward the longitudinal side of the glide board body by lateral sections, which in a third axis direction (Z axis) perpendicular to the first and second axis direction (X axis, Y axis) and perpendicular to the glide surface have a reduced thickness, the glide board body width in the second axis direction (Y axis) being defined by the sum of the widths of the raised section and the lateral sections.
US09180357B2	Multiple antenna interference rejection in ultra-wideband real time locating systems Systems, methods, apparatuses, and computer readable media are disclosed for providing interference rejection in ultra-wideband real time locating systems. In one embodiment, an ultra-wideband (UWB) receiver is configured to: receive an interference signal from a source positioned outside a monitored region; receive a composite signal transmitted from a tagged object moving about a playing field within the monitored region, wherein the composite signal comprises a location signal and a component of the interference signal; detect whether the component of the interference signal exceeds a threshold value; and adjust, via a processor, filtering of the composite signal to attenuate the component of the interference signal based on whether the component of the interference signal exceeds the threshold value. Some embodiments provide for filtering of the composite signal using a combiner while others employ a tunable notch filter. Corresponding systems, methods, and computer-readable storage medium are also provided.
US09180356B2	Batter's eye apparatus and system A batter's eye or backdrop apparatus and system, and to a free-standing deployable batter's eye apparatus and system, including a panel which may be raised, lowered and/or removed, as desired. The apparatus and system are easy to install and maintain, designed to tolerate design wind loads by changing orientation, shape and/or area presented to winds in response to the winds and/or wind pressures. The batter's eye apparatus is flexible and allows for movement in instantaneous wind modes, thereby reducing the complexity and cost of a support structure for the batter's eye and the batter's eye system. The batter's eye also includes a panel, screen or sheet that may be raised, and lowered closer to the ground to provide further protection against damage due to winds and/or weather.
US09180352B2	Multi-sport apparatus A multi-sport apparatus is provided including a handle portion and a head portion. The head portion includes a hingedly attached hinge portion moveable between a first configuration and a second configuration. In the first configuration a longitudinal axis of the hinge portion extends parallel to a longitudinal axis of the head portion. In the second configuration the longitudinal axis of the hinge portion extends at an angle to the longitudinal axis of the head portion.
US09180349B1	Golf club head with adjustable center of gravity A golf club head comprising a plurality of center of gravity adjustment assemblies is disclosed herein. In some embodiments, the golf club head comprises a plurality of weight ports and a vertical center of gravity adjustment assembly. In other embodiments, the golf club head comprises two vertical center of gravity adjustment assemblies and one horizontal center of gravity adjustment assembly that allows weight to be shifted in a direction perpendicular to a face of the golf club head. In some embodiments, the horizontal center of gravity adjustment assembly may include a slidable weight, while in others it may include a flippable weight cartridge.
US09180343B2	Joint Commonality Submersible (JCS) An underwater propulsion device includes a number of modules allowing it to be used in a range of configurations including a tow/pull type scooter 300, a thigh strap configuration 700, a calf strap configuration 1100, a push configuration 1200, a tank mount configuration 1300. The device may include an underwater changeable battery canister 1600, a hand controller 216 that senses movement about the radius bone to generate direction and speed control signals and/or a front mounted headlight 224.
US09180340B2	Respiratory training assembly A respiratory training assembly has a main body, an expiratory training device mounted in the main body and a handle formed on the main body. The main body has a volume barrel, an inspiratory training device, an air channel and an output-input entrance. The inspiratory training device is mounted movably in the volume barrel and has a floating element. The air channel is formed on the main body, communicates with the volume barrel, and has a check valve. The output-input entrance is formed in the main body and communicates with the air channel. In use, the inspiratory flow path and the expiratory flow path of the respiratory training assembly are separated to prevent pollution from the patient's saliva. Additionally, the expiratory training device can be adjusted according to the patient's requirement to improve the training result.
US09180339B2	Method of providing resistance for use with a resistance training device A method of using a resistance training device including mounting a mounting device onto a game table, wherein a placement of the mounting device onto the game table corresponds to an opening on a sidewall of the game table, and utilizing a resistance article with a game table rod that extends into a game space of the game table, the resistance article coacting with the game table rod to gradually increase a resistance during rotation of game table rod is provided.
US09180336B2	Variable force mouth exerciser The invention described herein relates to a mouth exerciser for providing a variable resistive force against which a user may exercise their mouth and jaw muscles. The apparatus may be selectively configured between a plurality of resistive force settings, thereby enabling a user to adjust their exercise routine as desired. The mouth exerciser may be particularly adapted to fit the topography of a particular user's oral cavity and may be easily disassembled for storage and transport.
US09180335B1	Exercise wheel An exercise wheel includes two wheel assemblies rotatably mounted to two ends of an axle. Each wheel assembly is rotatable about a longitudinal axis. A plurality of first grooves and a plurality of second grooves are defined in an outer periphery of each wheel assembly. Each second groove is located between two adjacent first grooves. A first roller is rotatably mounted in each first groove of each wheel assembly. Each first roller is rotatable relative to a corresponding wheel assembly about a first rotating axis. A second roller is rotatably mounted in each second groove of each wheel assembly. Each second roller is rotatable relative to a corresponding wheel assembly about a second rotating axis. The second rotating axis of each second roller is parallel to and spaced from the longitudinal axis and is at a non-parallel angle to the first rotating axis of an adjacent first roller.
US09180333B2	Strength training aid The present invention relates to a portable strength training device which can be adapted to various sports and can be utilized in almost any location. More, specifically present invention is a weighted elongated tubular member which includes connectors for attachment of various balls and/or sporting equipment. The training device is adjustable through the use of various sized hollow tubes of different lengths and/or diameters which allow for the addition of one or more types of weight material within the hollow lumen. Various different sports objects, such as balls, golf club handles, tennis racket handles, baseball bats and the like can be secured to one of the distal ends of the hollow tubes. Clips hooks or the like may be secured to the opposite distal end of the tube for anchoring the device.
US09180329B2	Exercise bench with rotating torso support An exercising apparatus is disclosed having a padded support for a user's hips and all, or a portion of, the user's torso. The padded support is positioned on either a fixed-length, or an adjustable support at approximately hip height and it is angled upward from the floor on which the exercise device is resting at approximately midway between horizontal and vertical, and is capable of side to side arcuate movement along an axis that is located in line with and above the upper surface of the padded support.
US09180325B2	Pressure assisted aerial retardant delivery system An aerial retardant delivery system comprising a retardant tank mountable in the fuselage of an aircraft. The tank includes a pressure opening in fluid communication with the fuselage such that pressure in the fuselage may act on retardant contained in the tank. The tank includes an outlet extending through a sidewall of the aircraft's fuselage, through which retardant may be delivered to a target. The system also includes a discharge gate operative to open and close the outlet. An actuation mechanism is disposed on the exterior of the tank and operatively coupled to the at least one discharge gate. A variable flow controller controls the discharge gate open position in order to provide retardant over a desired area of terrain. A one-way flapper is disposed in the pressure opening and is operative to allow pressure in the fuselage to enter the tank while inhibiting retardant from spilling from the tank.
US09180321B2	Cosmetic compositions containing liposoluble polymers and tackifiers A cosmetic composition containing: (a) at least one tackifier component having a solubility parameter corresponding to δ; (b) at least one liposoluble polymer having at least one segment with a solubility parameter corresponding to δ+2; (c) at least one solvent; and (d) optionally, at least one colorant.
US09180316B2	Butyric acid esters of resveratrol and cosmetic compositions Butyric acid esters of resveratrol and topical compositions containing the esters.
US09180315B2	Ultrasonic treatment device and probe unit An ultrasonic treatment device includes a vibration transmitting section transmitting an ultrasonic vibration to a distal end of an ultrasonic probe, and a hole defining portion extended toward a proximal direction along the longitudinal axis from a distal end portion of the vibration transmitting section and defining a hole-shaped portion inside the vibration transmitting section. The ultrasonic treatment device includes a tube member extended inside the vibration transmitting section and including a tube distal end which is connected to the hole defining portion of the vibration transmitting section at a first node position of the ultrasonic vibration to a distal direction side of a piezoelectric element.
US09180314B2	Apparatus and methods for the destruction of adipose tissue Methods and apparatus are described for modifying unwanted tissue for cosmetic reasons. The methods provide a non-invasive manner to perform body contouring by destroying adipose tissue while simultaneously causing collagen contraction in a single procedure so that as destroyed tissue is removed from a treatment volume, the volume shrinks gradually to maintain the skin tone of the treatment area. The procedure may involve multiple treatments to the same treatment area or location.
US09180312B2	Brachytherapy device for asymmetrical irradiation of a body cavity The disclosure describes devices and methods for asymmetrical irradiation at a body cavity or site, such as after removal of tissue, e.g. biopsy or cancer. One device includes a lumen which is off-set or off-settable from a longitudinal axis to increase the intensity of radiation received from a radiation source by a first tissue portion surrounding the body cavity and to reduce or minimize radiation received by a second tissue portion (e.g. healthy tissue) surrounding the body cavity.
US09180310B2	Brachytherapy devices and related methods providing bioabsorbability and/or asymmetric irradiation Methods of forming a low-dose-rate (LDR) brachytherapy device include depositing a solution comprising a soluble form of a radioactive material on a substrate. A water-insoluble form of the radioactive material is formed on the substrate by chemical precipitation and/or thermal decomposition.
US09180305B2	Systems and methods for controlling electric field pulse parameters using transcranial magnetic stimulation A system and methods for controlling pulse parameters during transcranial magnetic stimulation are provided. Multiple coils are placed on external body parts, and are controlled using an external control unit coupled to a stimulator having fast switches. The timing of the switches, as well as other parameters within the stimulator, determine the pulse parameters, such as pulse shape. The variety of pulse shapes obtainable using such a system and methods provides controlled physiologic effects within an internal body organ.
US09180303B2	Transmission of power source usage information over a network The disclosure is directed to transmitting power source usage information regarding a power source of an implantable medical device (IMD) to a remote networking device via a network. The IMD operates on power supplied by a power source, such as a battery, within the housing of the IMD. The use of the power source may be monitored remotely in order to maintain therapy. Power source usage information may include power source recharge patterns such as frequency of recharging events, length of recharging events, period between recharging events, discharge state of the power source, and degree of coupling between primary and secondary coils during recharging. The IMD, or an external device used with the IMD, may generate, store, and transmit the power source usage information to the remote networking device. Action requests may be transmitted from the remote networking device via the network based upon the power source usage information.
US09180302B2	Touch screen finger position indicator for a spinal cord stimulation programming device A method of visualizing a user interaction with a clinician programmer is disclosed. A user engagement with respect to a screen of the clinician programmer is detected via one or more sensors associated with the screen of the clinician programmer. One or more locations on the screen of the clinician programmer corresponding to the user engagement is determined. An external monitor is communicatively coupled to the clinician programmer. The external monitor displays one or more cursors that graphically represent the one or more locations on the screen of the clinician programmer corresponding to the user engagement, respectively.
US09180300B2	Left-ventricular pacing site selection guided by electrogram morphology analysis A medical device and associated method classify candidate pacing electrode sites for delivering pacing pulses to a patient's heart. A first morphology template is established and stored in memory of the device. A processor is configured to determine a cardiac signal morphology in response to delivering pacing pulses at a candidate pacing site in a first heart chamber. The processor compares the determined cardiac signal morphology to the first morphology template. The pacing site in the first heart chamber is classified in response to the comparing of the determined cardiac signal morphology and the first morphology template.
US09180299B2	First time right placement of a DBS lead The disclosure is directed to a deep brain stimulation (DBS) lead having a distal end for providing therapeutic electrical stimulation to tissue in a stimulation target area of a patient's brain, comprising an array of one or more stimulation elements and sensing elements located at the distal end of the lead; each of the one or more stimulation elements is capable of providing electrical stimulation to the brain tissue in the target area; and each of the one or more sensing elements is capable of detecting electrical signals produced by nerve cells within the brain; wherein after the first implantation of the lead into the brain along a trajectory that is pre-determined by non-surgical procedures, the array of stimulation and sensing elements is capable of facilitating the location of the target area and the determination for each of the stimulation elements of the required stimulation parameters needed to provide the therapeutic stimulation to the brain tissue in the stimulation target area, without requiring any additional implantations of the lead after the first implantation. A stimulation system including the DBS lead and a pulse generator is disclosed. Also disclosed is a method of providing therapeutic DBS to brain tissue using the lead.
US09180297B2	System and method for spinal cord modulation to treat motor disorder without paresthesia A method for of performing a medical procedure on a patient suffering from a movement disorder. The method comprises delivering electrical current having a defined pulse rate equal to or greater than 1500 Hz and/or a defined pulse duration equal to or less than 200 μs to spinal cord tissue of the patient in a manner that modulates neuronal traffic in at least one dorsal column (DC) nerve fiber of the patient, thereby treating symptoms of the movement disorder without causing the patient to perceive paresthesia from the delivered electrical current.
US09180296B2	Method and system for providing stimulation inputs to a visual prosthesis implant Stimulation inputs are provided to a visual prosthesis implant. The images captured by a video decoder are received and digitized to provide a plurality of video frames; integrity of the video frames is checked, the checked video frames are filtered, and the filtered video frames are converted to stimulation inputs. A similar system is also disclosed.
US09180293B2	Detection of feeding intent for use in treatment of eating disorders An exemplary method for treating obesity includes an pulse generator configured to deliver electrical energy to a vagal nerve, one or more sensors configured to detect pre-prandial activity and, in response to the detection of pre-prandial activity, a pulse generator configured to deliver electrical energy to the stomach to induce satiety. Various other technologies are also disclosed.
US09180289B2	Enhanced low friction coating for medical leads and methods of making An implantable or insertable medical device can include a silicone substrate and a plasma-enhanced chemical vapor deposition coating on the silicone substrate. The coating may include a silicon-containing compound. A method of forming the coating is also provided.
US09180287B2	Use of local anesthesia and electrical stimulation in peripheral wound treatment A wound therapy method that results in improved wound healing for conditions including diabetic foot ulcers, pressure ulcers, and arterial and venous ulcers is described. The wound therapy method uses local anesthetic injections in an area surrounding the wound combined with electrical stimulation causing local and deep muscle contraction in the same area. The method leads to increased vasodilation, increased tissue oxygen levels at the target site, and increased blood flow to the target site. This causes local angiogenesis and tissue perfusion that increases wound healing rates and decreases future wound occurrences.
US09180285B2	Implantable wireless accoustic stimulators with high energy conversion efficiencies Receiver-stimulator with folded or rolled up assembly of piezoelectric components, causing the receiver-stimulator to operate with a high degree of isotropy are disclosed. The receiver-stimulator comprises piezoelectric components, rectifier circuitry, and at least two stimulation electrodes. Isotropy allows the receiver-stimulator to be implanted with less concern regarding the orientation relative the transmitted acoustic field from an acoustic energy source.
US09180282B2	Implantable drug delivery system having periodic drug delivery regimen to avoid granulomas An implantable drug delivery system including: a biocompatible or bio-inert housing containing a drug infusion pump, a drug chamber from which a liquid drug is dispensed when the pump applies a force to the drug chamber, and an internal controller actuating the pump; a delivery catheter extending from the housing to one or more drug delivery treatment sites in a target tissue, wherein the catheter includes a lumen having an inlet to receive a drug pumped from the drug chamber and an outlet are positioned at the target tissue, wherein the drug flows through the outlet to the target tissue, and wherein the internal controller stores and executes an automatic periodic flow regimen which commands the pump and drug chamber to periodically dispense an intermittent bolus or pulse of the liquid drug, wherein the periodic flow regimen provides a prophylactic treatment for granuloma.
US09180280B2	Drug delivery shockwave balloon catheter system A catheter comprises an elongated carrier and a balloon carried by the carrier in sealed relation thereto. The balloon has an outer surface and is arranged to receive a fluid therein that inflates the balloon. The catheter further comprises a shock wave generator within the balloon that forms mechanical shock waves within the balloon, and a medicinal agent carried on the outer surface of the balloon. The medicinal agent is releasable from the balloon by the shock waves.
US09180279B2	Inflatable imbibed polymer devices The present invention provides a stretchable material suitable for use in an inflatable medical device. The stretchable material has at least one reinforcing polymer layer with a top and bottom side forming a porous matrix which is imbibed with a sealing material to infiltrate and substantially seal spaces of the porous matrix and extend beyond the reinforcing polymer layer to form a surface coating.
US09180276B2	Method involving use of an assembled indwelling assembly A method involves positioning an assembled indwelling assembly adjacent a patient, wherein the assembly includes an inner needle, a hub fixed to the inner needle, a hollow outer member in which the inner needle is positioned, a hub fixed to the hollow outer member, and an elongated member axially overlapping an intermediate portion of the hollow outer member. The method also includes moving a distal portion of the assembly to puncture a blood vessel of the patient with the sharp needlepoint while the elongated member contacts the hollow outer member, advancing the hollow outer member in a distal direction along the inner needle to insert a distal portion of the hollow outer member to a target position in the blood vessel, and moving the inner needle hub in a proximal direction such that the inner needle is pulled out from and entirely removed from the hollow outer member.
US09180275B2	Catheter-dressing systems with integrated flushing mechanisms Methods and devices are disclosed herein that generally involve a sterile catheter-dressing system that allows for integrated injection of fluids, e.g., a saline flush, during the process of catheter insertion and sterile dressing placement. Such methods and devices can be used as a fully integrated catheter insertion system, or to convert existing catheter insertion devices and methods into integrated flush and sterile sealing catheter-dressing systems. Such methods and devices can greatly simplify the catheter insertion process, and can allow the reproducible placement of a fully sterile and flushed vascular catheter, as well as the placement of a durably sterile circumferentially sealing and securing dressing.
US09180274B2	Indwelling luminal devices The invention comprises an indwelling medical device which is capable of delivering a therapeutic agent evenly along the length of the indwelling portion, including the outer wall, of the device.
US09180273B2	Method for loading substances into drug delivery catheter Methods and apparatus for delivering a substance to a target tissue are provided which may include any number of features. One feature is storing a substance or drug in a reservoir or reservoirs over an expandable member. The expandable member can be a balloon catheter, for example. The reservoir(s) can be disposed in a Transforming Reservoirs Matrix layer disposed over the expandable member. Another feature is a mechanical activator or a plurality of mechanical activators positioned near the reservoir(s).
US09180272B2	Instrument for treating patient with semicircular canal injury and method for producing same Disclosed is an instrument for treating a patient with semicircular canal injury, which is an instrument in the form of an exact enlarged model of human three semicircular canals having a structure wherein a liquid and a plurality of otolithic models, having a specific gravity larger than the specific gravity of said liquid, are enclosed within a hollow annular member made of a transparent resin and equipped with a screen at the position corresponding to the cupula in each of the three semicircular canals. Therein, said screen has such a mesh size as allowing the passage of said liquid but not allowing the passage of the otolithic models. Thus, an instrument for treating a patient with semicircular canal injury, whereby physical and mental pains can be alleviated in treating a patient with semicircular canal injury such as benign paroxysmal positional vertigo, is provided.
US09180271B2	Respiratory therapy device having standard and oscillatory PEP with nebulizer A respiratory therapy device has both a standard positive expiratory pressure (PEP) device and an oscillatory PEP device packaged together. A manually operable member is movable to select which of the standard and oscillatory PEP device is placed in communication with a patient's airway. A nebulizer connector may also be provided for connection of a nebulizer.
US09180269B2	Breathing mask and methods thereof Embodiments of the present invention relate to a breathing mask for alleviating conditions causing sleep apnea and avoiding onset claustrophobia in a patient often caused by a breathing mask. In one embodiment of the present invention, a breathing mask comprises an overhead gear assembly comprising an overhead receptor and a hose attachment connected to the overhead receptor, and a patient interface coupled to a connector tubing and/or valve of the overhead gear assembly, wherein the hose attachment is positioned outside of a line of sight of a user, when the breathing mask is utilized by the user.
US09180264B2	Medicated module for an inhaler A medicated module containing a medicament is configured for removable attachment to the mouthpiece of an inhaler. The inhaler may contain a first medicament such that a single firing of the inhaler will deliver both medicaments to the user.
US09180261B2	Preservative free insulin formulations and systems and methods for aerosolizing One embodiment describes an insulin formulation that is specifically adapted for aerosolization. The formulation includes a major amount of water and a minor amount of insulin. Further, the formulation is preservative free, without meta-cresol, cresol or phenol, to permit the formulation to be aerosolized using a vibrating aperture plate without substantial foaming of the insulin formulation.
US09180259B2	Prefilled syringe jet injector A jet injector that includes a prefilled syringe. The syringe includes a fluid chamber that contains a medicament. The syringe also has an injection-assisting needle, and a plunger is movable within the fluid chamber. A housing is configured for allowing insertion of the needle to a penetration depth. An energy source is configured for biasing the plunger to produce an injecting pressure in the medicament in the fluid chamber of between about 80 and 1000 p.s.i. to jet inject the medicament from the fluid chamber through the needle to an injection site.
US09180256B2	Sheath removal apparatus Provided is apparatus for removing a sheath from a pre-filled syringe. The syringe has a barrel and a needle, the sheath providing a sterile cover for the needle. The apparatus comprises a housing, for enclosing the syringe barrel defining an injection end with an aperture sized to allow the sheath of an enclosed syringe to protrude therethrough, and a syringe barrel mount for retaining the syringe in the housing. The mount is slidable axially within the housing between positions towards and away from the injection end of the housing. The apparatus also comprises a biasing means, for biasing the mount away from the injection end of the housing, and latching means for latching said mount in a latched position to prevent sliding of the mount away from the injection end of the housing. The latching means is releasable from the latched position, by sliding of the mount towards the injection end. Also provided is an injection device comprising said apparatus.
US09180255B2	Resettable drive assembly and drug delivery device A resettable drive assembly for a drug delivery device (1) is provided. The drive assembly comprises a drive unit (3) for driving a piston rod (5) in a dispense operation of the device (1). The drive unit (3) comprises a first drive member (35), a second drive member (37) and locking means preventing a relative rotational movement of the first (35) and the second drive member (37) during a dispense operation and allowing a relative rotational movement for enabling a resetting of the device (1). Moreover, a drug delivery device (1) comprising a resettable drive assembly is provided.
US09180254B2	Coded fastener assembly Disclosed herein are fastening features for cartridge assemblies that include coding features that help dedicate a medicament reservoir to specific injection devices. An exemplary cartridge assembly comprises a cylindrical inner surface for holding medicament and a cylindrical outer surface comprising a fastening feature having a first coding element protruding from the cylindrical outer surface. The coding element is configured to engage a complementary coding feature on the fastener on a dose setting member specifically configured to dispense the medicament, thereby allowing only the correct cartridge assembly to connect to the correct dose setting member.
US09180253B2	Medicated module for administering fixed dose A medicated module attachable to a drug delivery device. The medicated module comprises a housing configured for attachment to a drug delivery device. The drug delivery device comprises a first medicament. A collapsible reservoir is contained within the housing. A pre-determined volume of a second medicament is contained within the reservoir. A needle arrangement is configured within the housing and the needle arrangement is arranged in fluid communication with the collapsible reservoir. A needle shroud may be configured, such that, during an injection step, the shroud acts on the reservoir to inject the second medicament.
US09180251B2	Coded cartridge assembly Disclosed herein are cartridge assemblies that include coding features that help dedicate a medicament reservoir to specific injection devices. An exemplary cartridge assembly comprises a cylindrical inner surface for holding medicament and a cylindrical outer surface comprising at its proximal end one or more stops configured as coding elements protruding from the cylindrical outer surface. Each coding element is configured only to engage a corresponding coding feature on a dose setting and delivery mechanism, thereby allowing only the correct cartridge assembly to connect to the dose setting and delivery mechanism.
US09180246B2	Medicament container The apparatus relates to a medicament container for a liquid medicament. The medicament container comprises a deformable bag with an outlet and at least one deformation member consisting of a shape memory alloy. The at least one deformation member is arranged to deform the deformable bag when the shape memory alloy passes from a first phase into a second phase by a phase transition, thereby changing the shape of the deformation member and squeezing a dose of the medicament through the outlet out of the bag.
US09180241B2	Tube roller pump including pivoting cover and medical device for extracorporeal blood treatment Tube roller pumps for a medical device for extracorporeal blood treatment are disclosed. The pumps include a pump housing having a bearing surface and a rotor inside the bearing surface, wherein a tube is introduced between the bearing surface and the rotor in loop shape. Means for mounting the tubing segment are provided so the tubing segment can be pivot by pivoting a tilting element on which the tubing segment is at least partly mounted. A cover is mounted on the pump housing so that when closed upon pivoting the tubing segment toward the closed cover it constitutes a counter-bearing for the tilting element by which the tubing segment can be aligned with the pump housing. Means for automated unthreading of the tubing segment from the bearing are also included. Medical devices for extracorporeal blood treatment including the tube roller pump are also disclosed.
US09180240B2	Medical fluid pumping systems and related devices and methods This disclosure relates to medical fluid pumping systems and related devices and methods. In some aspects, a medical fluid pumping system includes a medical fluid pumping machine including a piston head that can be linearly displaced and a medical fluid cassette that can be secured to the medical fluid pumping machine. The medical fluid cassette includes a fastening member attached to a region of a flexible membrane overlying a fluid pump chamber, and the piston head is configured to be mechanically connected to the fastening member of the cassette.
US09180238B2	Distributed processing system and method for dialysis machines A dialysis machine includes a control unit having a user interface; a heater(s) located separate from the control unit; a supervisory processor located with the control unit; a delegate control processor located with the heater(s), the delegate control processor in communication with the supervisory processor and configured to receive load cell, heater(s) plate and supply bag temperature sensor inputs; and a sub-delegate heater(s) processor in communication with the control processor and configured to control power to the heater(s). The machine can also include primary and secondary monitoring processors that perform a safety check to the control processing and monitor the load cell.
US09180234B2	Connecting element for mounting a blood pump or a cannula on a heart A connecting element for connecting a blood pump or a cannula to a heart, the connecting element including a sealing element, which is designed to at least temporarily close an opening formed in the cardiac wall and to be opened via insertion of a preferably cylindrical object in the direction of an axis of the opening.
US09180233B2	Systems and methods for subcutaneous administration of reduced pressure employing reconfigurable lumens Systems, method, and devices are disclosed that involve reconfiguring lumens or unblocking lumens relative to a blockage to maintain flow of reduced pressure to a subcutaneous tissue site. In one instance, a multi-lumen applicator includes an applicator body having a distal end and a proximal end and formed with a plurality of apertures for receiving fluid from the tissue site and for delivering reduced pressure, a first lumen fluidly coupled to the plurality of apertures, a first activation member having at least a closed position and a open position, and a second lumen fluidly coupled to the plurality of apertures but for the first activation member being in closed position. The configuration is such that when the first activation member is moved to the open position, the second lumen is fluidly coupled to the plurality of apertures. Other systems, methods, and devices are disclosed.
US09180232B2	Surgical system having manifolds with integral pneumatic accumulators A surgical system having all of the various pneumatic control sub-systems or sub-manifolds integrally mounted on a common primary manifold. The various required control mechanisms such as valves are likewise integrally mounted to the common manifold and to the sub-manifolds. Within any or all of the sub-manifolds or primary manifolds, volumes of material not necessary for the operation of the manifold are carved or pocketed out and used to form integral accumulators for storing extra pressurized air. The volume of the accumulator can vary according to the pressurized air requirement of the particular manifold, or the overall pneumatic system.
US09180231B2	Negative pressure device A method and apparatus are disclosed for providing negative pressure at a wound site. The apparatus includes a negative pressure reservoir and a reservoir valve for selectively connecting the reservoir to a wound chamber at a wound site.
US09180230B2	System and method for delivering reduced pressure to subcutaneous tissue A reduced pressure treatment system includes a first fluid pathway in communication with a reduced pressure source and a second fluid pathway. The system includes a reduced pressure manifold having a substantially gas impermeable barrier and at least one outer conduit defining a lateral edge of an interior region. The outer conduit and the substantially gas impermeable barrier enclose a portion of the interior region. The outer conduit is in fluid communication with one of the first and second fluid pathways. The outer conduit has at least one opening in fluid communication with the interior region. An inner conduit is at least partially disposed within the interior region and is in fluid communication with another of the first and second fluid pathways. The inner conduit has at least one opening in fluid communication with the interior region.
US09180228B2	Rubber toughened bioresorbable polymer peripheral scaffolds Bioabsorbable scaffolds are disclosed with a rigid polymer component and a rubbery polymer component. The rubbery polymer component is miscible, partially miscible, or immiscible with the rigid polymer component.
US09180226B1	Compositions and devices incorporating water-insoluble therapeutic agents and methods of the use thereof Various aspects of the present invention provide compositions and implantable devices including a water-insoluble therapeutic agent solubilized in a matrix of a gallate-containing compound. Other aspects provide methods of manufacturing and using such compositions and devices.
US09180225B2	Implantable medical devices with a topcoat layer of phosphoryl choline acrylate polymer for reduced thrombosis, and improved mechanical properties The present invention relates to implantable medical devices coated with phosphoryl choline acrylate polymer topcoat layer and their use in the treatment of vascular diseases.
US09180224B2	Composite bone graft substitute cement and articles produced therefrom The invention provides a particulate composition adapted for forming a bone graft substitute cement upon mixing with an aqueous solution, including i) a calcium sulfate hemihydrate powder having a bimodal particle distribution and a median particle size of about 5 to about 20 microns, wherein the calcium sulfate hemihydrate is present at a concentration of at least about 70 weight percent based on the total weight of the particulate composition; ii) a monocalcium phosphate monohydrate powder; and iii) a β-tricalcium phosphate powder having a median particle size of less than about 20 microns. Bone graft substitute cements made therefrom, a bone graft substitute kit comprising the particulate composition, methods of making and using the particulate composition, and articles made from the bone graft substitute cement are also provided.
US09180219B2	Compositions comprising honey and a super-absorbent material A composition comprising honey and a super-absorbent material. A method of treating a lesion comprising applying a composition comprising honey and a super-absorbent material to the lesion. A method of manufacturing the composition of the invention, comprising: (a) providing at least one type of honey; (b) providing at least one super-absorbent material; and (c) combining the honey and super-absorbent material.
US09180207B2	Epo knockout GFP anemic mouse The present invention relates to a model animal spontaneously developing anemia. More specifically, the invention relates to a transgenic non-human mammal spontaneously developing anemia associated with a postnatal decrease in production of erythropoietin (Epo), Epo-producing cells prepared from the transgenic non-human mammal, and a screening method using the Epo-producing cells.
US09180206B2	Pharmaceutical preparation and manufacturing method thereof This invention provides a pharmaceutical preparation for DDS containing a pharmaceutical agent fixed by bonding to a monomolecular layer that is covalently bonded to a magnetic particle surface, (a) by reacting an alkoxysilane compound with the magnetic microparticle surface by dispersing a magnetic microparticle in a liquid mixture including an epoxy-containing alkoxysilane compound, a silanol condensation catalyst, and a non-aqueous organic solvent; (b) by washing the microparticle surface with an organic solvent to remove remaining surplus alkoxysilane compound for producing an epoxy-containing monomolecular layer that is covalently bonded to the microparticle surface; and (c) by fixing an imino-containing pharmaceutical agent such as a protein, amino acid, enzyme, antibody, antibiotic, antimicrobial, or contrast medium by reaction with the epoxy group.
US09180203B2	Self-assembling drug amphiphiles and methods for synthesis and use The present invention provides herein the design of monodisperse, amphiphilic anticancer drugs—which are now termed “drug amphiphiles” (DAs)—that can spontaneously associate into discrete, stable supramolecular nanostructures with the potential for self-delivery (no additional carriers are needed). The quantitative drug loading in the resulting nanostructures is ensured by the very nature of the molecular design. The DA is a composition comprising: D-L-PEP; wherein D is 1 to 4 hydrophobic drug molecules which can be the same or different; L is 1 to 4 biodegradable linkers which can be the same or different; and PEP is a peptide that can spontaneously associate into discrete, stable supramolecular nanostructures. In an alternate embodiment, the DA composition also comprises a targeting ligand (T). Methods of making DA molecules, as well as their use in treatment of disease are also provided.
US09180197B2	Sustained delivery formulations of risperidone compounds The present invention relates to a risperidone sustained release delivery system for treatment of medical conditions relating delusional psychosis, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, psychotic depression, obsessive-compulsion disorder, Tourette syndrome, and autistic spectrum disorders. The sustained release delivery system includes a flowable composition containing risperidone, a metabolite, or a prodrug thereof and an implant containing risperidone, a metabolite, or a prodrug thereof. The flowable composition may be injected into tissue whereupon it coagulates to become the solid or gel, monolithic implant. The flowable composition includes a biodegradable, thermoplastic polymer, an organic liquid, and risperidone, a metabolite, or a prodrug thereof.
US09180194B2	Method and composition for transdermal drug delivery The invention is directed to a transdermal drug delivery composition which includes at least one physiologically active agent; and at least one volatile solvent; and at least one viscosity modulating agent. The invention extends to methods of administering such a composition to a subject and treatment of subjects using the composition.
US09180190B2	Methods and compositions for wound treatment The present disclosure relates to methods for identifying proteins or peptide motifs of intracellular, extracellular, or extracellular matrix proteins specifically exposed in wound sites, as well as compositions for treating wounds, and methods for their use.
US09180189B2	Treating a mammal with a formulation comprising an antibody which binds IgE A method of treating a mammal with a formulation comprising an antibody which binds IgE as described.
US09180184B2	Adjuvant compositions and methods of use This disclosure provides adjuvant compositions that are capable of modulating the immune response in a subject. These adjuvant compositions may also be used enhance the immunogenicity of antigens. Also provided are methods of making the adjuvant compositions as well as methods of using the adjuvant compositions.
US09180183B2	Phospholipid drug analogs Provided in some embodiments are compositions comprising a compound having a structure according to Formula A or Formula B: or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt, tautomer or hydrate thereof, where X2 is a bond or linker, X3 is bond or —PO4—, and X1, R1, R2, R3, and n are described herein. Also provided in some embodiments are methods for making and using such compounds and compositions.
US09180182B2	Method for suppressing an immune response The invention is in the field of molecular immunology, more in particular in the field of medical treatment of animals such as humans suffering from unwanted immune reactions. The invention relates to methods for the treatment of unwanted immune reactions and provides means and methods for suppressing an immune response. The present invention relates in particular to regulatory T cells and methods of long-term, culture-expanding, activating and using same in immunotherapy and for the suppression of autoimmune responses, allergies and inflammatory diseases. The invention provides a sia alpha 2,3-conjugated antigen for use in the suppression of an immune response in a patient in need of such a treatment.
US09180180B2	Functional influenza virus-like particles (VLPs) The present invention discloses and claims virus like particles (VLPs) that express and/or contains seasonal influenza virus proteins, avian influenza virus proteins and/or influenza virus proteins from viruses with pandemic potential. The invention includes vector constructs comprising said proteins, cells comprising said constructs, formulations and vaccines comprising VLPs of the inventions. The invention also includes methods of making and administrating VLPs to vertebrates, including methods of inducing substantial immunity to either seasonal and avian influenza, or at least one symptom thereof.
US09180179B1	Development of a marker foot and mouth disease virus vaccine candidate that is attenuated in the natural host We have generated novel molecularly marked FMDV A24LL3DYR and A24LL3BPVKV3DYR vaccine candidates. The mutant viruses contain a deletion of the leader coding region (LL) rendering the virus attenuated in vivo and negative antigenic markers introduced in one or both of the viral non-structural 3Dpol and 3B proteins. The vaccine platform includes unique restriction endonuclease sites for easy swapping of capsid proteins for different FMDV subtypes and serotypes. The mutant viruses produced no signs of FMD and no shedding of virulent virus in cattle. No clinical signs of disease or fever were observed and no transmission to in-contact animals was detected in pigs inoculated with live A24LL3DYR. Cattle immunized with chemically inactivated vaccine candidates showed an efficacy comparable to a polyvalent commercial FMDV vaccine. These vaccine candidates used in conjunction with a cELISA provide a suitable target for DIVA companion tests.
US09180178B2	Method of using attenuated bordetella strains A mutated Bordetella strain comprising at least a mutated ptx gene, a deleted or mutated dnt gene and a heterologous ampG gene is provided. The attenuated mutated Bordetella strain can be used in an immunogenic composition or a vaccine for the treatment or prevention of a Bordetella infection. Use of the attenuated Bordetella strain for the manufacture of a vaccine or immunogenic composition, as well as methods for protecting mammals against infection by Bordetella are also provided.
US09180174B2	Conjugates comprising mannan and myelin oligodentrocyte glycoprotein (MOG) A first aspect of the invention relates to a conjugate including mannan and at least one epitope comprising a peptide fragment of a protein selected from myelin basic protein (MBP), myelin oligodentrocyte glycoprotein (MOG) and proteolipid protein (PLP), said peptide fragment being in linear or cyclic form; and wherein said epitope is linked to mannan via a [(Lys-Gly)n] bridge, where n is an integer from 1 to 10.Further aspects of the invention relate to pharmaceutical compositions comprising said conjugates, and their use in the preparation of a medicament for treating an immune disorder.
US09180160B2	Complement inhibitors for treatment of injury from intracerebral hemorrhage Methods for treating or ameliorating the damage resulting from intracerebral hemorrhage are disclosed. The methods involve administration of a complement inhibitor to inhibit C3a or C5a formation or activity in the affected tissue. Pharmaceutical compositions suitable for use in the methods of the invention are also provided.
US09180159B2	Use of cell-permeable peptide inhibitors of the JNK signal transduction pathway for the treatment of chronic or non-chronic inflammatory digestive diseases The present invention refers to the use of protein kinase inhibitors and more specifically to the use of inhibitors of the protein kinase c-Jun amino terminal kinase, JNK inhibitor sequences, chimeric peptides, or of nucleic acids encoding same as well as pharmaceutical compositions containing same, for the treatment of non-chronic or chronic inflammatory digestive diseases, such as colitis, including e.g. Ulcerative colitis, Crohn's disease, diversion colitis, ischemic colitis, infectious colitis, fulminant colitis, chemical colitis, microscopic colitis, lymphocytic colitis, and atypical colitis, etc.
US09180158B2	Methods for treating scars and aging skin Beneficial topical compositions for treating scar or aging skin are provided. In one embodiment, the compositions include Bulbine frutescens, Centella asiatica and a phenol derived from olives, such as oleuropein. The composition may be used in the treatment of scars formed during surgery. The composition may also be used cosmeceutically in the treatment of aged skin, and may include phosphatidylserine, vitamins, and other beneficial anti-aging ingredients.
US09180156B2	Composition for controlling increase in blood glucose The present application describes a composition for blood glucose control containing green tea extracts (GTE) with gallated catechins (GC) and macromolecule to prevent the intestinal absorption of GC.
US09180150B2	Poxviral oncolytic vectors A poxvirus comprising a defective F2L gene and compositions comprising such poxvirus are useful for therapeutic purposes, and more particularly for the treatment of cancer.
US09180146B2	Skin salve for treating intertrigo The subject patent application relates to a skin salve which is comprised of (1) petrolatum, (2) beeswax, and (3) peppermint oil, wherein the beeswax is present in said salve at a level of at least 11 weight percent. The present invention also discloses a method for treating irritated skin which comprises topically applying a skin salve to the irritated skin, wherein the skin salve is comprised of (1) petrolatum, (2) beeswax, and (3) peppermint oil, wherein the beeswax is present in said salve at a level of at least 11 weight percent.
US09180145B2	Compositions and methods for recruiting and localizing stem cells Described herein are compositions and methods of using modified placental tissue to achieve endogenous and exogenous therapeutic effects. When applied to an injured or diseased organ or body part, the modified placental tissue elicit stem cell recruitment and/or localization directly to or proximate to the site of application. Also described is a novel vacuum drying device and the use thereof.
US09180138B2	2′-fluoronucleosides 2′-Fluoro-nucleoside compounds are disclosed which are useful in the treatment of hepatitis B infection, hepatitis C infection, HIV and abnormal cellular proliferation, including tumors and cancer. The compounds have the general formulae: wherein Base is a purine or pyrimidine base; R1 is OH, H, OR3, N3, CN, halogen, CF3, lower alkyl, amino, loweralkylamino, di(lower)alkylamino, or alkoxy; R2 is H, phosphate, or a stabilized phosphate prodrug; acyl, or other pharmaceutically acceptable leaving benzyl, a lipid, an amino acid, peptide, or cholesterol; and R3 is acyl, alkyl, phosphate, or other pharmaceutically acceptable leaving group; or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof.
US09180137B2	Preparation of bone cement compositions A method for the preparation of injectable ready-to-use paste bone cement compositions by mixing a dry inorganic bone cement powder comprising a particulate calcium sulfate hemihydrate capable of hardening in vivo by hydration of the calcium sulfate hemihydrate forming calcium sulfate dihydrate, an aqueous liquid and an additive that normally retards the setting process, said method comprising a) providing a bone cement powder comprising calcium sulfate hemihydrate, an accelerator for the hardening of the calcium sulfate hemihydrate by hydration, said accelerator being selected from the group consisting of saline and calcium sulfate dihydrate, and a powdered calcium phosphate component b) mixing the bone cement powder with the aqueous liquid for a period of time c) leaving the mixture for the time needed for allowing the hydration reaction of the calcium sulfate hemihydrate to proceed and allowing calcium sulfate dihydrate crystals to form and grow, and d) admixing the additive by means of a short-duration mixing using a minimum of energy surprisingly shortens the setting times for the cement comprising the additive that retard the setting process to the level observed in the absence of the additive and enables a complete hydration of calcium sulfate hemihydrate to calcium sulfate dihydrate, even when using additives else preventing the hardening.
US09180135B2	Miliacin and sphingolipids and/or phospholipids composition for hair and scalp care The present disclosure relates to a cosmetic or dietary composition for combating human or animal hair loss and/or promoting hair growth and/or regrowth and/or enhancing the beauty thereof (shine, softness, strength) and/or enhancing scalp comfort, comprising at least miliacin in a proportion greater than 0.1% by mass with respect to the total mass of the composition and polar lipids in a proportion greater than 0.1% by mass with respect to the total mass of the composition, including sphingolipids, particularly ceramides and/or glycosylceramides, and/or phospholipids in a proportion greater than 0.1% by mass with respect to the total mass of the composition. The present disclosure further relates to the use of such a composition, and the method for preparing such a composition.
US09180133B2	Method for treating uterine fibroids The invention relates to a method for treating uterine fibroids, which method comprises administering to a patient in need thereof, an effective amount of 17α-acetoxy-11β-[4-N,N-dimethylamino-phenyl)-19-norpregna-4,9-diene-3,20-dione (ulipristal) or any metabolite thereof. More particularly, the method is useful for reducing or stopping bleeding in a patient afflicted with uterine fibroids, and/or for reducing the size of uterine fibroids.
US09180127B2	Type II Raf kinase inhibitors The present invention relates to novel compounds which are able to modulate b-raf kinases, and the use of such compounds in the treatment of various diseases, disorders or conditions.
US09180126B2	Formulations and methods for treating rhinosinusitis The invention involves methods and formulations for treating or preventing rhinosinusitis, including fungus-induced rhinosinusitis in mammals. In one embodiment, the formulation of the present invention comprises a steroidal anti-inflammatory agent having a specific particle size distribution profile. The formulation may also comprise an antifungal agent, antibiotic or antiviral agent.
US09180124B2	Nicotine containing formulation Disclosed is nicotine containing solid oral transmucosal dosage forms containing a therapeutically effective amount of nicotine polacrilex, citric acid monohydrate, sucrose and liquid glucose. The dosage form is preferably in the form of lozenge.
US09180123B2	N-link hydroxamic acid derivatives useful as antibacterial agents The present invention is directed to a new class of hydroxamic acid derivatives, their use as LpxC inhibitors, and more specifically their use to treat bacterial infections.
US09180120B2	Substituted N-phenethyltriazoloneacetamides and use thereof The present application relates to novel substituted N-phenethyltriazoloneacetamides, to processes for preparing them, to their use alone or in combinations for the treatment and/or prevention of diseases and also to their use for the production of medicaments for the treatment and/or prevention of diseases, more particularly for the treatment and/or prevention of cardiovascular disorders.
US09180118B2	Thiadiazolidinone derivatives The present invention relates to compounds of the formulae herein, their acceptable salts, solvates, hydrates and polymorphs thereof. The compounds of this invention are useful in treatment of disease, particularly leukemia. The invention also provides compositions comprising a compound of this invention and the use of such compositions in methods of treating disease, disorders, or symptoms thereof in a subject.
US09180116B2	Difluorolactam compounds as EP4 receptor-selective agonists for use in the treatment of EP4-mediated diseases and conditions Disclosed herein are compounds of formula (I) and therapeutic methods of treatment with compounds of formula (I), wherein L1, L2, L4, R1, R4, R5, R6, and s are as defined in the specification. Compounds of formula (I) are EP4 agonists useful in the treatment of glaucoma, neuropathic pain, and related disorders.
US09180114B2	Neurodegenerative diseases and methods of modeling This invention relates to methods for neuroprotection, promoting survival of motor neurons and the treatment of motor neuron diseases by preventing cell signaling through the classic prostaglandin D2 receptor DP1.
US09180112B2	Dermal compositions containing gorgonian extract A skincare composition comprising Gorgonian extract as an anti-inflammatory component thereof, said skincare composition being selected from among compositions (I) and (II): (I) an aqueous composition comprising from 35 to 65 wt. % water, from 25 to 45 wt. % surfactant, from 0.01 to 0.2 wt. % retinol and from 0.005 to 0.5 wt. % Gorgonian extract, wherein all weight percentages are based on total weight of the aqueous face wash composition, and all weight percentages of all ingredients in the aqueous face wash composition total to 100 wt. %; and (II) a gel composition comprising from 60 to 90 wt. % water, from 1 to 12 wt. % benzoyl peroxide, and from 0.05 to 1.25 wt. % Gorgonian extract, wherein all weight percentages are based on total weight of the gel composition, and all weight percentages of all ingredients in the gel composition total to 100 wt. %.
US09180108B2	Baclofen formulations and methods for making same Methods for preparing sterilized baclofen solutions include adjusting the pH to below a desired pH, and steam sterilizing the solution with adjusted pH, which results in the solution having the desired pH. Such solutions may also have low concentrations of 4-CPP. Injectable baclofen solutions having greater than 2 mg/mL baclofen include between 5 mM and 25 mM of a phosphate or sulfate species. The solution has an ionic strength equivalent of about 1.5 M NaCl. The present application also provides baclofen formulations for use in treating spasticity, brain injury, cerebral palsy, spinal cord injury, cervical injury, multiple sclerosis, thoracic injury, or withdrawal symptoms.
US09180104B2	Benzonatate modified release solid tablets and capsules A 12-hour anti-tussive modified release solid tablet or capsule is described which comprises a benzonatate in a matrix with a sufficient amount of one or more pharmaceutically acceptable modified release pH-independent, substances to provide a 12-hour modified release profile to the benzonatate, wherein there is substantially no benzonatate release from the tablet or capsule in the buccal cavity and no more than about 25% release of the benzonatate within 1 hour as determined in an in vitro dissolution assay. The modified release may be provided by (a) a high melt temperature, water-insoluble wax or waxy substance, (b) a low viscosity hydrophilic polymer such a hydroxypropyl methylcellulose, (c) a reverse enteric coating, or combinations thereof. The benzonatate may be in an adsorbate with a silico or silicate or in a complex with a weak acidic ion exchange resin complex.
US09180100B2	Methylphenidate extended release chewable tablet An oral methylphenidate extended release tablet is described, which can be scored and still retain its extended release profile. The tablet contains a combination of an uncoated methylphenidate-ion exchange resin complex, a barrier coated methylphenidate-ion exchange resin complex-matrix, and an uncomplexed methylphenidate active component. Following administration of a single dose of the extended release methylphenidate chewable tablet, a therapeutically effective amount of methylphenidate is reached in less than about 20 minutes and the composition provides a twelve-hour extended release profile.
US09180093B2	Stable bortezomib formulations Multi-dose formulations for bortezomib are presented in which bortezomib has significantly improved stability. Especially preferred formulations include those in which bortezomib is in a liquid form suitable for injection, wherein the solvent system predominantly comprises propylene glycol. In other preferred aspects, bortezomib is present as a Lewis donor-acceptor complex with a hetero-bifunctional Lewis base.
US09180092B2	Vaporized medicants and methods of use A method and formulation for delivering an active compound in a vaporized state using low temperatures to vaporize the formulation. The formulation contains an inert non-reactive compound that lowers the heat of vaporization of the formulation, and the active compound. The formulation may optionally contain glycerin, alcohol, and/or water. Examples of inert non-reactive compounds that can sufficiently lower the heat of vaporization of the formulation include propylene glycol and polysorbate. The formulation can be vaporized using a hand-held low temperature vaporizer or atomizer.
US09180090B2	Non-sedating antihistamine injection formulations and methods of use thereof Disclosed are injectable formulations of cetirizine for treating acute allergic reactions and methods for treating acute allergic reactions. In particular, an intravenous injectable is disclosed as are methods of treating acute allergic reactions.
US09180081B2	Compositions and methods for topical application and transdermal delivery of botulinum toxins Improved formulations for transdermal delivery of botulinum toxin are disclosed. The formulations include, for example, botulinum toxin non-covalently associated with a positively charged backbone having branching or efficiency groups. The formulations also include a partitioning agent, oligo-bridge, or polyanion bridge, and may optionally contain a viscosity modifying agent. The formulations are designed for topical application onto the skin of a patient and may be used to treat wrinkles, hyperhidrosis, and other health-related problems. Kits for administration are also described.
US09180078B2	Cosmetic composition containing lingonberry extract and its uses The invention relates to a cosmetic composition containing lingonberry extract and its use on skin cosmetology thereof. The present invention has provided a lingonberry extract wherein containing polyphenols components including anthocyanidin, procyanidin, resveratrol, catechin and so on. The present invention also relates to the application of lingonberry extract on skin cosmetology, including without limitation whitening, diminishing visible pigmentation, anti-wrinkle, moisturizing, smoothing and improving skin sensitivity. The invention also has revealed drugs, cosmetic compositions and food prepared by using lingonberry extract. Comparing with the prior art cosmetic compositions, the said lingonberry extract of the present invention has higher effects and safe.
US09180077B2	Green tea extracts of improved bioavailability The present invention relates to a green tea formulation stabilized by natural antioxidants such as OPC together with vitamin C or vitamin C analogs. The invention also relates to the use of a mixture of OPC and ascorbic acid to increase bioavailability of green tea catechins. It also relates to a food, pharmaceutical or cosmetic composition that contains the stabilized green tea formulation.
US09180074B2	O/W emulsion cosmetic A cosmetic composition in the form of an O/W emulsion includes: (A) 1 to 20% by weight of a plate-like powder that has been surface-treated with an alkylalkoxysilane, (B) 0.1 to 10% by weight of an oil that is solid at a temperature of 25° C., (C) 0.3 to 50% by weight of an oil selected from the group consisting of a hydrocarbon oil, an ester oil, and an ether oil, each having a viscosity of 500,000 mPa·s or less at a temperature of 25° C., (D) 0.1 to 20% by weight of a nonionic surfactant having an HLB value of 8 or less, (E) 0.05 to 10% by weight of a water-soluble polymer having a hydrocarbon group with a carbon number of 8 to 30 and an anionic group in a molecule thereof, and (F) water.
US09180071B2	Pill preparation device A pill preparation device is disclosed. The pill preparation device includes a base, an anvil supported by the base, and a platen coupled to the base and movable relative to the anvil. The platen has a crushing surface oriented toward the anvil and a rolling surface on a side opposite the crushing surface. The pill preparation device also includes a lever arm slidably coupled to the base and rotatable about a pivot, and a roller coupled to the lever arm and offset from the pivot, such that the lever arm is operable to selectively position the roller about the platen. Force applied to the lever arm forces the platen toward the anvil to facilitate breaking up a pill disposed between the crushing surface and the anvil. Movement of the lever arm causes movement of the roller to facilitate breaking up a pill disposed between the roller and the rolling surface.
US09180065B2	Foldable walker apparatus There is provided a brake rod assembly for a walker apparatus. The assembly includes a brake rod operatively connected to a brake for braking the walker apparatus. The assembly includes a connection member operatively connected to a brake handle. The assembly includes a gripping member that is spring-biased to slidably receive the brake rod. The gripping member has an adjustment mechanism rigidly connected thereto that adjustably engages a connection member. Actuation of the connection member tilts the gripping member upwards and engages the brake rod for braking the walker apparatus.
US09180064B2	Walking safety aid apparatus A safety walker includes a pair of side members, arms and spring loaded pins engaging the arms so as to allow movement of the side members between an operative position, wherein the side members are disposed in a spaced apart generally parallel relationship with each other and a generally folded position, wherein the side members are generally juxtaposed in a generally planar relationship with and in close proximity to each other. There is also a seat that is configured for movement between a stored position wherein the seat is disposed generally parallel to a rear leg of one of the pair of the side members and a second position wherein the seat is disposed generally horizontally across a space between rear legs of the pair of the side members. The safety walker is also configured for supporting various medical devices often connected to the user.
US09180057B2	Made-to-measure orthosis for compression/containment, for reinforcing the musculo-aponeurotic pump of the calf The orthosis comprises an elastic compressive distal portion extending upwards from the ankle and associated with an adjoining containment proximal portion covering a region of the calf extending between the level of the junction point between the Achilles tendon and the calf muscle and the level situated beneath the tibial tuberosity. This containment proximal portion is an essentially non-elastic deformable tubular portion made by knitting with a thermoformable yarn, and it is knitted continuously with the elastic compressive distal portion.
US09180054B2	Drug delivery apparatus An implantable drug delivery apparatus for delivering a drug into a bodily fluid in a body cavity of a patient over a period of time includes a variable-volume vessel defining a working chamber for receiving a drug and recirculating a therapeutic fluid. The fluid can contain a bodily fluid, such as, for example, perilymph, and a drug. The device allows for the controlled delivery of the therapeutic fluid to a predetermined location in the bodily cavity of the patient, such as, for example, a cochlea of a human ear.
US09180052B2	Method and device for non-invasive temperature determination in biological tissue treated with treatment radiation A method for non-invasive temperature determination in biological tissue treated with treatment radiation wherein a reaction which depends on the treatment temperature is generated and detected. Measurement radiation pulses and pulses of the treatment radiation are applied to the tissue to be treated successively, in particular in an alternating way, from the same radiation source. A device includes a radiation source, an irradiation lens system, detectors for determining a reaction and a system control suitable for controlling treatment radiation and measurement radiation pulses. The system control generates successive, in particular alternating, pulses of treatment radiation and measurement radiation pulses from one radiation source only, in particular a laser which can be modulated.
US09180051B2	System and apparatus for treating the lens of an eye A system and apparatus for increasing the amplitude of accommodation and/or changing the refractive power and/or enabling the removal of the clear or cataractous lens material of a natural crystalline lens is provided. Generally, the system comprises a laser, optics for delivering the laser beam and a control system for delivering the laser beam to the lens in a particular pattern. There is further provided apparatus for determining the shape and position of the lens with respect to the laser. There is yet further provided a method and system for delivering a laser beam in the lens of the eye in a predetermined shot pattern.
US09180050B2	Implantable intraocular pressure drain An implanted parylene tube shunt relieves intra-ocular pressure. The device is implanted with an open end in the anterior chamber of the eye, allowing excess fluid to be drained through the tube out of the eye. In one embodiment, only a first end of the tube implanted into the anterior chamber of the eye is open. Intra-ocular pressure (IOP) is then monitored, for example utilizing an implanted sensor. When IOP exceeds a critical valve, a practitioner intervenes, puncturing with a laser a thinned region of the tube lying outside the eye, thereby initiating drainage of fluid and relieving pressure. In accordance with alternative embodiments, the both ends of the tube are open, and the tube includes a one-way valve configured to permit drainage where IOP exceeds the critical value. The tube may include projecting barbs to anchor the tube in the eye without the need for sutures.
US09180048B2	Eye shape modification systems An eye shape modification (ESM) system such as a scleral buckle featuring a band having a first end, a second end opposite the first end, and a first side; and a fixation zone disposed on the first side of the band. The fixation zone is adapted to accept sutures and can be sutured to a scleral surface. The ESM system may also feature a closure system for closing the two ends of the band together. The ESM system may also feature a calibrated shortening mechanism allowing a calibrated reduction in circumference and diameter.
US09180047B2	Apparatus and methods for ocular injection An apparatus includes a housing coupled to a medicament container, which is coupled to a needle. An injection assembly is disposed within the housing and includes an energy storage member and an actuation rod. A distal end portion of the actuation rod is disposed within the medicament container. The energy storage member can produce a force on a proximal end portion of the actuation rod sufficient to move the distal end portion of the actuation rod within the medicament container. This can convey at least a portion of a substance from the medicament container via the needle when a distal tip of the needle is disposed within a first region of a target location. The force is insufficient to move the distal end portion of the actuation rod within the medicament container when the distal tip of the needle is disposed within a second region of the target location.
US09180046B2	Reservoir device for intraocular drug delivery A delivery device that allows for the sustained release of an agent, particularly useful for the sustained release of a therapeutic agent to limited access regions, such as the posterior chamber of the eye and inner ear. The delivery device is minimally invasive, refillable and may be easily fixed to the treatment area. The delivery device includes a hollow body with an inlet port at its proximal end for insertion of the agent, a reservoir for holding the agent and a delivery mechanism for the sustained delivery of the agent from the reservoir to the patient.
US09180044B2	Eye injection device An injection device for injecting a product into an eye, said device comprising an injection needle and a support on which the injection needle is fixed, said device being characterized in that it comprises a locating mark disposed in such a way that the latter can be placed in contact with a defined bearing region of the surface of the eye, before any contact of the injection needle with said surface, and can then be kept in contact with said bearing region during a stage of penetration of said injection needle through said surface of the eye.
US09180042B2	Method and apparatus for spinal cooling A method for exchanging heat with a patient's spinal column incident to spinal surgery or to relieve a patient for a hypoxia condition of the spine. A closed loop heat exchange catheter is percutaneously advanced into the retroperitoneal space of the patient or into the vasculature, and then heat exchange fluid is circulated through the catheter to cool the spinal column.
US09180039B2	Intrauterine device An intrauterine device for applying force to a wall of a uterus to promote contraception without blocking the fallopian tubes may include an elongate member formed of a resilient material and having a default expanded configuration and a spring portion disposed approximately at a midpoint between two ends of the elongate member. The IUD may also include two tissue contact members, one tissue contact member disposed at one of the two ends of the elongate member and the other tissue contact member disposed at the other end. The tissue contact members may generate a laterally directed force against the wall of the uterus when the intrauterine device assumes its default expanded configuration.
US09180036B2	Methods for implanting medical devices Described herein is a positioning tool having an elongate portion for carrying a medical implant. Also described is a method of positioning a medical implant using an elongate positioning tool. One form of the method includes positioning a medical implant on a distal portion of an elongate positioning tool, inserting the positioning tool with the implant thereon into a body cavity manipulating the positioning tool to position the implant into contact with tissue at an attachment location, attaching the implant to surrounding tissue at the attachment location, separating the implant from the positioning tool, and withdrawing the positioning tool from the body. In a preferred embodiment, the position of the implant is visually confirmed using an endoscope before the implant is attached to surrounding tissue. In one embodiment, the implant is a satiation device and the body cavity is the esophagus and/or stomach. In an alternative embodiment, an expansion structure on the distal end of the elongate portion expands and/or contracts the medical implant to facilitate positioning.
US09180034B1	Device for assisting weight control Devices and methods for assisting weight control where the device is inserted into the mouth of a patient between opposing rear molar teeth. The inserted devices cause an increase in resistance to chewing, which then slows eating by the person. The devices can include elastic bands, magnets, shock absorbers, combinations, thereof and sensors for detecting strength and frequency of chewing.
US09180029B2	Porous bidirectional bellowed tracheal reconstruction device Implantable splinting devices for supporting a passageway defect in a patient that is formed from one or more support structures including a polymer or a polymer and acellularized tissue matrix that define a structural component that substantially conforms to a defective passageway of the patient. The structural component also has a plurality of pores. The implantable splinting device is capable of being placed around a trachea, a bronchi, an esophagus and a blood vessel of a patient. The implantable splinting device may also be configured for placement between the trachea, and the esophagus of a patient.
US09180028B2	Structural hydrogel polymer device The present invention relates generally a manufacturing process which results in a completely hydrogel polymer device that maintains lumen patency which allows for numerous applications. Catheters and stents are particular examples, and their composition, mechanical characteristics, and the significantly unique ability to conduct and allow fluids to pass from one end to the other without physiological rejection, inflammation, or manifestation of complications due to implant or otherwise undesirable outcomes when used for ambulatory and or therapeutic interventions is the purpose of the invention.
US09180026B2	Adjustment-free cushioning air cylinder An adjustment-free cushioning air cylinder includes an air cylinder body, a piston, a first check valve, an upper air way, a second check valve and a lower air way. An air chamber is formed inside the air cylinder body. The piston slides in the air chamber. One end of the piston extends to the external of the air cylinder body. The piston does a reciprocating movement in the air chamber and divides the air chamber into an upper air chamber and a lower air chamber. The first check valve is disposed in the piston, one end of the first check valve is connected to the upper air chamber, and the other end is connected to the lower air chamber. The upper air way connects the upper air chamber with the outside. The adjustment-free cushioning air cylinder of the invention does not need to adjust the entering flow rate of the air, but the entering flow rate can be automatically adjusted to produce cushioning resistance as the user is walking according to the walking speed. The present invention has a simple structure, high cushioning performance, lower cost, and is not easy to damage, thus can greatly improve the product competitiveness.
US09180020B2	System for stabilizing a portion of the spine A system for stabilizing a portion of the spine comprising an elongate plate attached to one or more vertebrae by a number of bone anchors, with the system including one or more features that provide visualization of an implant disposed within a vertebral space and/or the interface between the implant and the adjacent vertebral tissue. A holding instrument is included that is engageable to the plate for positioning the plate adjacent the spinal column.
US09180013B2	Deflection resistant acetabular cup An acetabular shell for use in hip arthroplasty. The shell includes a first wall having an outer surface, an inner surface, and a rim. The shell further includes a second wall extending from the outer surface of the first wall. The second wall has an outer surface, an inner surface, and a rim. The rim of the second wall is spaced outwardly from the rim of the first wall.
US09180011B2	Implantable circulating lubrication system for joints A lubrication device for lubricating a joint of a human or mammal patient, which is entirely implantable in a patient's body, comprises a reservoir for storing a lubricating fluid and a fluid connection for introducing the lubricating fluid into the joint when the device is implanted in the patient's body. Further, the fluid connection comprises a fluid connection device connecting the reservoir with the joint such that a lubricating fluid flow is established from the reservoir into the joint. The fluid connection comprises either an infusion needle adapted to be intermittently placed into the joint for injecting the lubricating fluid, or a tube adapted to be permanently placed into the joint for continuously injecting the lubricating fluid.
US09180009B2	Droop tester apparatus and method The invention relates to a system for testing heart valve leaflets. The system includes a leaflet support assembly with a support post for receiving and supporting a leaflet to be tested, the post being disposed in a target region of the support assembly. The system also has a transmitter assembly that includes a light source and is configured and arranged to direct light from the light source onto the target region. The system further includes a receiver assembly that has an image sensor configured and arranged to sense an image of the target region and generate image information indicative of the sensed image, such as leaflet droop.
US09180005B1	Adjustable endolumenal mitral valve ring Excessive dilation of the annulus of a mitral valve may lead to regurgitation of blood during ventricular contraction. This regurgitation may lead to a reduction in cardiac output. Disclosed are systems and methods relating to an implant configured for reshaping a mitral valve. The implant comprises a plurality of struts with anchors for tissue engagement. The implant is compressible to a first, reduced diameter for transluminal navigation and delivery to the left atrium of a heart. The implant may then expand to a second, enlarged diameter to embed its anchors to the tissue surrounding and/or including the mitral valve. The implant may then contract to a third, intermediate diameter, pulling the tissue radially inwardly, thereby reducing the mitral valve and lessening any of the associated symptoms including mitral regurgitation.
US09180004B2	Delivery and retrieval systems for collapsible/expandable prosthetic heart valves A system for delivering a collapsible and re-expandable prosthetic heart valve into a patient includes a valve support structure (140) around which the valve (10) is disposed in a collapsed condition. A sheath structure (110) surrounds the collapsed valve, but can be moved relative to the valve to uncover it for expansion at the desired implant site in the patient. The sheath structure may be variously mounted and moved to deploy the valve in various ways. For example, the sheath structure may include multiple parts, each of which can be moved separately to separately deploy various parts of the valve. The apparatus may have other aspects, such as the ability to reverse deployment of the valve, the ability to pass other instrumentation through the valve delivery apparatus, the ability to be smoothly withdrawn from the patient after deployment of the valve, etc.
US09179999B2	Apparatus and method for installing a stent A method for installing a stent graft in therapeutic relation to an abdominal artery aneurysm includes the steps of advancing the stent graft over a guide wire and an introducer sheath, followed by advancing a main catheter over the guide wire and the introducer sheath. An inner catheter in the lumen of the main catheter is pulled to cause a magnet-carrying extended arm to encounter a kick plate in the main catheter lumen and to exit that lumen through an exit opening formed in the main catheter. A mating catheter having a magnetic tip is advanced over a contralateral guide wire and manipulated until the respective magnets engage. After specific positioning of the contralateral guide wire, the magnets are decoupled, the mating catheter is retracted, the inner catheter is pushed to return the extended arm into the main catheter lumen through the exit opening and the main catheter is withdrawn.
US09179996B2	Tissue engineering of blood vessels Method and apparatus for mapping the shape and dimensions of a 3-dimensional body, by applying to the 3-dimensional body a stretchable covering configured and dimensioned such that in its stretched condition it tightly engages and conforms to the shape and dimensions of the 3-dimensional body to be mapped. The stretchable covering carries a plurality of reference devices, such as bands and/or markers which are at known or determinable reference locations in an initial condition of the covering, and which change their locations in the stretched condition of the stretchable covering according to the shape and dimensions of the 3-dimensional body covered thereby. The locations of the markers on the stretchable covering are determined after the stretchable covering has been applied to the 3-dimensional body, and are utilized to produce a map of the shape and dimensions of the 3-dimensional body.
US09179995B2	Methods of manufacturing slotted vascular treatment devices Vascular treatment and methods include a plurality of self-expanding bulbs and a hypotube including interspersed patterns of longitudinally spaced rows of kerfs. Joints between woven structures and hypotubes include solder. Woven structures include patterns of radiopaque filaments measureable under x-ray. Structures are heat treated to include at least shapes at different temperatures. A catheter includes a hypotube including interspersed patterns of longitudinally spaced rows of kerfs. Heat treating systems include a detachable flange. Laser cutting systems include a fluid flow system.
US09179993B2	Male urethral prosthesis with tensioning member The present invention provides a urethral prosthesis including a first and a second arm that join to form a junction, and a stem that is also joined to the junction. The junction is adapted to exert sufficient pressure on a portion of a patient's urethra to prevent unintentional voiding of the patient's bladder. However, upon exerting a tension force on the stem, the pressure exerted by the junction is reduced such that the patient's bladder may be intentionally voided.
US09179990B2	Hand-held dental device A hand-held light curing apparatus is used with a housing (12), a light source (14), in particular at least one LED, which is connected to a control unit (36), an energy source (20) and at least one energy storage unit in the form of at least one double layer capacitor (26, 28). It is provided that the light source (14) is fed simultaneously by the energy source (20) which is formed as a local energy source such as an accumulator and the double layer capacitor (26, 28).
US09179986B2	Orthodontic pliers for four quadrant V-bends A single pair of pliers for bending orthodontic arch wires in all quadrants of a patient's mouth. Includes first and second actuating members, each including a handle portion for grasping in the hand, and a head portion that projects at an angle. The actuating members are pivotally joined so that the head portions can be moved toward and away from each other into respective closed and open positions. A first occlusal jaw on head portion of the first actuating member has an internally angled channel profile and a second occlusal jaw on the head portion of the second actuating member also has an internally angled channel profile facing the other internal channel. A gingival jaw member having upper and lower externally angled corners is adapted to mate with the internally angled profiles of the upper and lower occlusal jaws, respectively, when the head portions are in the closed position.
US09179984B2	Multi-configuration tracking array and related method A navigation system generally determines a location of a portion of a first medical instrument relative to a patient. The navigation system generally includes a multi-configuration tracking array that extends from the first medical instrument. A plurality of tracking devices can be positioned on the multi-configuration tracking array. At least one of the tracking devices changes to define at least a first condition and a second condition. A tracking system detects the tracking devices and relates a change between the first condition and the second condition with a change between at least a first instrument configuration and a second instrument configuration.
US09179982B2	Method and system for automatic patient identification In a method of verifying patient identity, an image of an individual who is to receive radiotherapy is obtained and compared with a reference image of a patient to whom the radiotherapy is intended. Confirmation or negation of the individual to be the patient intended can be made based on the comparison of the image of the individual with the reference image of the patient.
US09179977B2	Systems and methods for tagging and tracking surgical devices and surgical accessories using radio frequency identification tags Various systems and methods are provided for tagging and tracking surgical devices using radio frequency identification (RFID) tags. In general, the systems and methods allow for tracking surgical devices throughout distribution and sterilization thereof. In an exemplary embodiment, the system includes a tray configured to seat a plurality of surgical devices and having a parent RFID tag attached thereto that contains information and/or facilitates access to information about the tray and each of the surgical devices seated therein. Each of the surgical devices seated in the instrument tray can have attached thereto a child RFID tag containing information and/or facilitating access to information about the surgical device.
US09179975B2	Passing tray for surgical instruments A passing tray for surgical instruments includes a holder having a base portion, opposing side portions open at a first end and an end portion. A sliding member having front and rear edges is slidably supported within the holder. At least one support member projects upwardly from a surface of the sliding member toward its front edge, and an actuator projects upwardly from the surface of the sliding member intermediate the front and rear edges thereof and has front and rear surfaces facing toward the front and rear edges of the sliding member, respectively. In use an elongated surgical instrument may be retained transversely between opposing surfaces of the support member and the open first end of the holder under force of the actuator.
US09179973B2	Feedback systems and methods for renal denervation utilizing balloon catheter A renal denervation system includes an ablation catheter and an inflation balloon. The renal denervation catheter is insertable into a renal artery to perform a renal denervation procedure. The inflation balloon is inflatable within the renal artery, wherein one of a blood pressure condition in the renal artery resulting from operation of the inflation balloon and a performance characteristic of the inflation balloon indicates efficacy of the renal denervation procedure.

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