Document Document Title
US09201540B2 Charge recycling system and method
Techniques for operating a touchscreen display are disclosed herein. In one embodiment, the touchscreen display device includes power regulation circuitry that supplies a first set of voltages to a display panel using high and low supply rails during a display period. During the blanking period following the display period, the high and low supply rails may be adjusted to a second set of voltages that provide for proper operation of touch-sensitive elements in the touchscreen display. Following the end of the blanking period, a portion of charge from the low supply rail is recycled by transferring the charge from the low supply rail back to the high supply rail to bring the high and low supply rails back to the first set of voltages for the next display period.
US09201535B2 Color filter substrate and manufacturing method thereof, display device with touch function and driving method thereof
Embodiments of the invention disclose a color filter substrate and a manufacturing method thereof, a display device with touch function and a driving method thereof. The color filter substrate comprises: a base substrate, a sense layer and a color filter layer disposed on the base substrate. The color filter layer includes a black matrix and a plurality of color filter patterns separated from each other by the black matrix. The sense layer and the color filter layer are disposed on a same side of the base substrate. The sense layer includes a plurality of sense regions, and a drive line and a sense line are provided side by side in a same layer in each of the sense regions.
US09201533B2 Substrate for in-cell type touch sensor liquid crystal display device and method of fabricating the same
An array substrate for an in-cell type touch sensor liquid crystal display device includes: a substrate; a gate line and a data line on the substrate; a thin film transistor connected to the gate line and the data line; a first passivation layer on the thin film transistor; a common electrode on the first passivation layer; an etching preventing pattern covering the drain contact hole; an x sensing line and a y sensing line on the common electrode; a second passivation layer on the x sensing line and the y sensing line; and a pixel electrode on the second passivation layer.
US09201530B2 Touch panel having conductive particle layer
A touch panel includes first electrodes, second electrodes, first conductive lines, second conductive lines and a conductive particle layer. The first and second electrodes are respectively formed on an upper surface of a first transparent substrate and a bottom surface of a second transparent substrate. The upper surface is adhered to the bottom surface. The first and second conductive lines are formed on a periphery area of the upper surface, and the first conductive lines are electrically connected to the first electrodes. The conducting particle layer, disposed between the first and the second transparent substrate, includes conducting particles, which are electrically connected to the second conductive lines and the second electrodes.
US09201527B2 Techniques to remotely manage a multimedia conference event
Techniques to remotely manage a multimedia conference event are described. An apparatus may comprise a mobile remote control having a communications component operative to establish a wireless connection between a mobile remote control and a multimedia conference server hosting a multimedia conference event. The mobile remote control may include a mobile remote control component communicatively coupled to the communications component, the mobile remote control component operative to manage the multimedia conference event from the mobile remote control by communicating control information and media information with the multimedia conference server for the multimedia conference event over the wireless connection. Other embodiments are described and claimed.
US09201525B2 Computer and mouse cursor control method
A mouse cursor control method, applied in a computer, includes receiving a first pressing gesture and a second pressing gesture, when the first pressing gesture maintains and recognizes the first pressing gesture and the second pressing gesture as a function of a left mouse button or a right mouse button according to a position relationship between the first pressing gesture and the second pressing gesture.
US09201524B2 Lensless optical navigation device for directing radiation via reflection by three total internal surfaces
An optical navigation device for use with mobile telephones and the like is disclosed, which has a reduced height as compared with current designs. The navigation device comprises a laser such as a VCSEL laser, an exposed user surface and two other surfaces that provide for total internal reflection of the incident laser beam. The surfaces are constructed with shallower than normal angles, preserving the basic functionality of the device while reducing the height.
US09201521B2 Storing trace information
The disclosure is directed to storing trace information. An aspect includes determining whether or not a pen is within a threshold distance of the touchscreen, storing trace information generated by a user's touch in a touch buffer if the pen is not within the threshold distance of the touchscreen, and clearing the touch buffer and storing trace information generated by the pen in the touch buffer if the pen is within the threshold distance of the touchscreen.
US09201519B2 Three-dimensional pointing using one camera and three aligned lights
Methods and systems for surface-free pointing and/or command input include a computing device operably linked to an imaging device. The imaging device can be any suitable video recording device including a conventional webcam. At least one pointing/input device is provided including first and second sets of visible point light sources, wherein the first and second sets emit differently colored light. The imaging device captures one or more sequential image frames each including a view of a scene including the first and second sets of visible point light sources. One or more software programs calculate a position and/or a motion and/or an orientation of the pointing/input device in the captured image frames by identifying colored areas corresponding to the first set of aligned visible point light sources. Certain activation patterns of individual point light sources are mapped to particular pointing and/or input commands.
US09201518B2 Computer mouse having detachable modules
A computer mouse includes a main body and a module. The main body includes an electronic processing unit disposed therein and an exposed depression formed on the main body. The module is detachably received by the depression and electrically connected to the electronic processing unit.
US09201516B2 Determining forward pointing direction of a handheld device
A forward pointing direction associated with a handheld device is estimated or determined by, for example, calculating a center of rotation of the device. A resultant combined or selected bias estimate may then be used to compensate the biased output of the sensor in, e.g., a 3D pointing device.
US09201509B2 Character input method and device based on arrow key
A character input method and device based on an arrow key are provided. The method of the present invention includes: querying a letter database according to triggering of a arrow key and obtaining a letter set corresponding to the arrow key; arranging the letter set corresponding to the arrow key according to a predetermined rule, and partially or fully spreading and then displaying the letter set in a display region; displaying a selection cursor at a default position in the display region, where the selection cursor is used for identifying a currently selected letter; and inputting the letter identified by the selection cursor into a character input region according to a predetermined selection rule. Embodiments of the present invention are mainly applied to a character input process based on an arrow key.
US09201508B2 Alternative glove-based key entry for mobile devices
A glove-based key entry apparatus and method for are provided. The apparatus includes at least one pair of gloves, a plurality of sensors disposed on a first side of the at least a pair of gloves, and at least two screens disposed on each side of the gloves, the second side of the at least one glove being opposite to the first side of the at least one glove.
US09201507B2 System and method for rapid input of data
A data inputting system includes a communication device and user-activated control or input device, both coupled to a processor. Data and a focus indicator are displayed or otherwise communicated to a user through the communication device. The position of the focus indicator relative to the displayed data indicates a changeable portion of the displayed data. Changes to the displayed data are made by activating the input device, which may include one or more sets of up and down scroll keys. Each set of scroll keys may be used to change different portions of the displayed data. The processor automatically adjusts the position of the focus indicator based on predetermined criteria, thereby allowing changes to different portions of the displayed data. An associated method is disclosed wherein the focus indicator's position is adjusted after a predetermined time has elapsed from which the input device is deactivated.
US09201506B2 Display device
A display device is disclosed. The display device includes first and second substrates, a display part, a vibrating body and a vibration transmission member. The first substrate includes a first inner primary surface and an outer primary surface opposing each other. The first substrate further includes a display region and an input region on the outer primary surface, and an input section. The second substrate includes a second inner primary surface that includes a facing region and a non-facing region. The facing region faces the first inner primary surface while the non-facing region does not face the first inner primary surface. The display part is located between the first substrate and the second substrate. The vibrating body is located in the non-facing region on the second substrate. The vibration transmission member is located between the first inner primary surface and the second inner primary surface.
US09201504B2 Vehicular glance lighting apparatus and a method for controlling the same
The present invention provides a vehicular glance lighting apparatus which provides a driver with vehicle-running information as light of a background screen and includes a driver attention function through prompt information delivery such that the driver visually recognizes as a background screen the vehicle-running information needed essentially or minimally for running the vehicle without requiring the driver's attention to avoid dissipation of the driver's sight, thereby preventing the driver's driving attention from being diverted, and a method for controlling the same. The vehicle-running information related with the running of a vehicle to be outputted in the form of light as a background screen, so that a driver can perceive the vehicle-running information without diverting or obstructing the driver's driving attention, thereby enhancing the driver's ability to cope with a vehicle travel risk during the traveling of the vehicle.
US09201500B2 Multi-modal touch screen emulator
Systems and methods may provide for capturing a user input by emulating a touch screen mechanism. In one example, the method may include identifying a point of interest on a front facing display of the device based on gaze information associated with a user of the device, identifying a hand action based on gesture information associated with the user of the device, and initiating a device action with respect to the front facing display based on the point of interest and the hand action.
US09201499B1 Object tracking in a 3-dimensional environment
The movement of an object is tracked in a 3D environment. In some cases, the object is a hand which may be used for gesture input to an augmented reality system. In a particular implementation, 3D images of the environment may be captured and 2D contours of objects within the environment may be generated. Overlap between regions defined by the 2D contours of objects in the 3D images may be utilized to determine whether an object in a first 3D image is the same as an object in a second 3D image that is captured subsequent to the first 3D image.
US09201498B2 Information display system, information display apparatus and non-transitory storage medium
The matching processor acquires the key information such as position information and/or the like by the key information acquirer, and notifies to an external apparatus via the communicator. The matching processor stores the acquired key information in the storer corresponding to the identification information which is acquired from the external apparatus. When the acquired identification information does not exist in a AR data management table, the matching processor acquires the AR data by notifying the identification information to the external apparatus. When there is no empty record in a key information management table, key information of which usage date and time is old is considered as a deletion target. Moreover, when there is no empty record in the AR data management table, the AR data of which usage date and time is old is considered as the deletion target.
US09201494B1 Multi-user managed desktop environment
A method and system of operating an actual or virtual desktop or server and managing such desktops and servers involves one or more cache appliances serving desktop, operating system, and application objects to a managed machine. The objects are composited together to present a normal file structure to the user, with all user configuration and data stored in the desktop object. Management requirements are minimized to maintain operating system and application objects, while users maintain distinct and customizable desktops.
US09201491B2 Methods and systems for managing data
Systems and methods for managing data, such as metadata or indexes for index databases. In one exemplary method, different processing priorities are assigned to different indexing tasks based upon the origin of the task. In another exemplary method, indexing tasks are processed in a first mode when a data processing system is in a first power state and indexing tasks are processed in a second mode when the data processing system is in a second power state.
US09201488B2 Access point rotation for sharing power load
Aspects of the disclosure provide a method for sharing power load in a network. The method includes identifying a first device to serve as an AP of the network in a next time interval, providing network information from a second device that presently serves as the AP to the first device. When the first device starts to serve as the AP of the network, the second device can be configured to enter into a power save state in order to reduce power consumption by the second device in the next time interval.
US09201480B2 Method and system for determining an arbitrary charging protocol in USB charging ports
An emulation system for determining an arbitrary charging protocol in USB charging ports and for optimally charging portable devices. The emulation system comprises a power switch for powering on the emulation system, a high-speed data switch for transferring data to and from the portable device, a USB receptacle port including data pins (DP and DM), VBUS, and GND. The emulation system further comprises a profile database that stores one or more charging profiles including one or more stimulus-response pairs for each charging profile. The emulation circuit further includes emulation circuitry for detecting stimulus generated by the portable device and for generating responses according to the charging profiles.
US09201479B2 Debug system, electronic control unit, information processing unit, semiconductor package, and transceiver circuit
Disclosed is a debug system that suppresses the supply of extra electrical power for functions disused in the future while maintaining the performance of communication between an electronic control unit and an external unit for development. The debug system includes an electronic control unit that has a microcomputer for controlling the operation of a control target, a transceiver circuit that is capable of communicating data with the microcomputer, and an external unit for development that is capable of rapidly communicating data with the transceiver circuit. The electronic control unit includes a power supply unit for supplying electrical power to the microcomputer. The transceiver circuit operates on electrical power supplied from an external power supply unit, which differs from the power supply unit included in the electronic control unit.
US09201478B2 Methods and systems for efficient battery charging and usage
Battery charging methods and systems for devices that have rechargeable batteries provide an efficient way to know when to charge a device's battery, and when to switch between the device's battery and an external power source as the device's power source. The methods and systems access thresholds for a plurality of power rates, obtain information about when different power rates are in effect and, after determining a current power rate based on the information, compare the threshold of the current power rate to the device's battery's charge level. Based on such a comparison, the methods and systems can determine whether the battery should be charged, and the methods and system can determine whether the device's battery or an external power source should be used as the device's power source.
US09201476B2 Bagged cooling stand for laptop computer
A bagged cooling stand for raising a laptop computer to increase air circulation comprises a sleeve, a pocket, a foldable cooling stand. The folded cooling stand is anchored inside of the pocket. The self contained cooling stand comprises a frame, leaves, and pins. There are 2 opposite slopes in the ribs reinforced flat frame for locking the leaves on standing up position with gravity of a laptop. The cooling stand has flat shape and similar outside profile of the pocket for storing and portable, and is strong enough as a portable desk. After opening the pocket and setting up the leaves of the stand on user's lap, a laptop can seats on lifted edges of the leaves for free air flowing and lowering temperature of the laptop. Lower temperature will increase the performance of a laptop and make user operate on his lap comfortably.
US09201461B2 Flexible circuit routing of a touch sensitive display device comprising a set of drive lines and a set of sense lines
Flexible circuits for routing signals of a device, such as a touch sensor panel of a touch sensitive device, are provided. The flexible circuit can include a first set of traces for routing a first set of lines and a second set of traces for routing a second set of lines. The first set of traces can couple together the ends of at least a portion of the first set of lines. Additionally, the first set of traces can be non-intersecting or non-overlapping with the second set of traces. The flexible circuit can have a T-shape configuration and can be incorporated within a touch sensitive device, display device, printed circuit board, or the like. The flexible circuit can be placed over another flexible circuit, and can extend onto the device.
US09201459B2 Portable terminal
Provided is a portable terminal, including: a window module; a display module disposed below the window module; a housing partially surrounding the window module and the display module; and a waterproof portion disposed on at least one of a bottom surface and a side surface of the display module to impede liquids from penetrating between the display module and the housing.
US09201458B2 Nudge notification via shifting device battery
A device can include a processor; a display operatively coupled to the processor; a battery having a battery length; a chassis that includes a bay having a bay length, the bay length being of sufficient length to allow translation of the battery along the bay length; a translation mechanism to translate the battery in the bay; and communication circuitry operatively coupled to the processor and the translation mechanism. Various other apparatuses, systems, methods, etc., are also disclosed.
US09201457B1 Synchronizing and recharging a connector-less portable computer system
A ruggedized connector-less cordless portable computer system is disclosed. In one embodiment, the portable computer system includes ports adapted to use wireless technology e.g., GSM, CDMA, LAN, Bluetooth, and infrared for synchronization. Furthermore, the device may be a palm-sized device having a rechargeable battery. In one embodiment of the present invention, the portable computer system includes a secondary coil of a transformer where the transformer's primary coil resides in an electronic cradle. The portable computer's rechargeable battery is recharged through an induction charging system. The wireless communication and induction charging system enables a device that is connector-less and therefore watertight and resilient to adverse climate conditions.
US09201453B2 Self-retracting connector for docking device
Docking stations that can include a durable, movable plug connector are provided. For example, the plug connector can rotate and retract into or extend out of an opening of the docking station housing, thereby reducing the likelihood of breakage caused by misuse. A pivoting retraction mechanism can be rotatably coupled to the plug connector to allow the plug connector to be movable. The retraction mechanism can be a compliant mechanism that is formed from a single piece of material. The plug connector can be biased in a first position by a biasing element that also returns the plug connector to the first position after moving. The opening in the docking station that accommodates the plug connector's full range of motion may only be slightly larger than the plug connector.
US09201452B2 Electronic device with illuminated logo structures
An electronic device may have a liquid crystal display with backlight structures. The backlight structures may produce backlight that passes through the liquid crystal display. A reflector may be used to enhance backlight efficiency. The electronic device may have a housing in which the display is mounted. The housing may be formed from an opaque material such as metal. An opening may be formed in the housing. Transparent housing structures such as a transparent logo structure may be mounted in the opening of the housing. During operation, a light source may produce light that passes through the transparent logo structure. A light guide structure may be used to guide light from the light source to the transparent logo structure. The reflector may be formed from a coating of metal on the light guide structure. Light from the light source may be used to form the backlight for the backlight structures.
US09201450B2 Module and port
A first module including a first port to connect to a second module including a second port. The first port including an attraction field to attract a second port if the second port was within the attraction field. A flexible member can be connected to the first port and a first edge can apply a force to the first port.
US09201448B2 Observing embedded signals of varying clock domains by fowarding signals within a system on a chip concurrently with a logic module clock signal
Observability of internal system-on-chip signals is a difficult problem and it is particularly difficult to observe and debug transactions with different clock domains. However, one embodiment provides observability of internal signals from multiple internal blocks having varying clock domains such as synchronous (common clock) and asynchronous (non common clock) domains. An embodiment provides simultaneous observability of debug data from both synchronous and asynchronous clock domains. An embodiment may also allow sending debug data from both synchronous and asynchronous domains from the SoC. One embodiment outputs internal signals on output pins of the SoC, thereby allowing transactions from one clock domain to be tracked to another clock domain and allowing for the determination of the relationship between the data of differing clock domains. Other embodiments are described herein.
US09201434B2 Multiphase current-parking switching regulator
A system and method are provided for regulating a voltage at a load. A target current is obtained and a number of regulator phases needed to provide the target current to a load is computed based on an efficiency characteristic of the regulator phases. The regulator phases are configured to provide the target current to the load. A multi-phase electric power conversion device comprises at least two regulator phases and a multi-phase control unit. The multi-phase control unit is configured to obtain the target current, compute the number of the regulator phases needed to provide the target current to the load based on the efficiency characteristic of the regulator phases, and configure the regulator phases to provide the target current to the load.
US09201423B2 Method and device for aiding the managing of air operations with required navigation and guidance performance
The device aids the management of air operations, such as operations under Required Navigation Performance with Authorization Required maneuvers. The device includes a guidance system including a plurality of stages for calculating parameters, each of the stages including an architecture having at least three pieces of equipment, which calculate the parameters and implement monitorings to determine the status of the equipment. The device uses these monitored statuses to determine a global status that indicates if the aircraft is able to carry out the air operations with required performance.
US09201421B1 Assisted perception for autonomous vehicles
Disclosed herein are systems and methods for providing supplemental identification abilities to an autonomous vehicle system. The sensor unit of the vehicle may be configured to receive data indicating an environment of the vehicle, while the control system may be configured to operate the vehicle. The vehicle may also include a processing unit configured to analyze the data indicating the environment to determine at least one object having a detection confidence below a threshold. Based on the at least one object having a detection confidence below a threshold, the processor may communicate at least a subset of the data indicating the environment for further processing. The vehicle is also configured to receive an indication of an object confirmation of the subset of the data. Based on the object confirmation of the subset of the data, the processor may alter the control of the vehicle by the control system.
US09201420B2 Method and apparatus for performing a function in a process plant using monitoring data with criticality evaluation data
A method and system for monitoring an entity within a process plant includes collecting entity status data pertaining to the status of an entity within the process plant collecting criticality data pertaining to the importance of the entity within the process plant, and using the entity status data and the criticality data to perform a function within the process plant.
US09201418B1 Servo motor drive
A servo motor drive is connected with at least two servo motors and contains: a main control unit, a power unit, and at least one servo drive module. Each servo drive module includes a communication interface unit, an input/output unit, a microprocessing unit, a field-programmable gate array, a current control unit, and a switching unit. The communication interface unit is electrically connected between the main control unit and the microprocessing unit. The input/output unit is electrically connected between the main control unit and the field-programmable gate array. The field-programmable gate array converts data of the at least two servo motors into digital data.
US09201416B2 Asset data modules including an integral near field communication interface
The present disclosure relates to various assets utilized within manufacturing and process plants for monitoring and control purposes. The asset data modules of the present disclosure include an integral near field communications (NFC) interface configured to provide access to asset data stored within memory integral to the given asset.
US09201415B2 Internal control signal regulation circuit
An internal control signal regulation circuit includes a programming test unit configured to detect an internal control signal in response to an external control signal and generate a selection signal, test codes and a programming enable signal; and a code processing unit configured to receive the test codes or programming codes in response to the selection signal and regulate the internal control signal.
US09201413B2 Protective patient footwear design and manufacturing system and methods
This disclosure relates to a design and manufacturing system for protective patient footwear, as well as related methods. The system includes suitable hardware, software, and related peripherals, which function to acquire data related to the patient's particular footwear needs, such as by three-dimensional scanning. A design subsystem interfaces with the inputted data to permit the resulting design to reflect particular foot conditions in the design and subsequent manufacturing process. A manufacturing subsystem receives the resulting design and includes hardware and software to manufacture the protective patient footwear.
US09201412B2 Wireless remote with control code learning
A wireless remote control system provides very low power operation and automatic addressing. In one disclosed example, the remote-control transmitter is battery operated, the receiver is powered from the AC line, and the system functions as a remotely operated switch to control lights or other devices or appliances. Battery life is extremely long, limited only by corrosion and other shelf-life issues. The transmitter is automatically programmed by a receiver using a very short range auxiliary signaling system when the transmitter is brought into close proximity to a receiver. The auxiliary signaling system transfers operational parameters from the receiver to the transmitter, enabling the transmitter to operate with the correct codes and on the correct frequency. Multiple switch transmitters may control a single operating device, and so that remotes can be added arbitrarily. Once programmed, the transmitter sends out a repetitive, unitized message in a continuous sequence to control the receiver.
US09201408B2 Managing electric current allocation between charging equipment for charging electric vehicles
A total amount of current drawn through a first charging equipment and a second charging equipment that wired on a same electrical circuit is limited to not exceed a maximum amount of electric current supported by the electrical circuit to prevent the electrical circuit from being overloaded, where limiting includes communicating a first current limit to a first electric vehicle connected to the first charging equipment to cause the first electric vehicle to limit its current draw to not exceed the first current limit, and communicating a second current limit to a second electric vehicle connected to the second charging equipment to cause the second electric vehicle to limit its current draw to not exceed the second current limit, where a sum of current being drawn at the first current limit and the second current limit does not exceed the maximum amount of electric current supported by the electrical circuit.
US09201398B2 Oscillating mechanism with an elastic pivot and mobile element for transmitting energy
An oscillating mechanism for a timepiece movement, including a first rigid element and a second rigid element, each one fixed on a different element of the movement and at least one of which is mobile relative to the other and pivots about an axis. The mechanism is monobloc and flexible with a variable geometry, and includes a first elastic restoring mechanism producing an elastic connection between the first rigid element and an intermediate rigid element, and a second elastic restoring mechanism producing an elastic connection between the intermediate element and the second rigid element, which all are coplanar according to one plane and configured to be deformed according to the plane.
US09201390B2 Developer cartridge
A developer cartridge is described. The developer cartridge detachably mountable on a tandem type photosensitive unit slidable to a drawn-out position and a mounted position with respect to an image forming apparatus body may include a casing; a developer carrier rotatably supported on one end portion of the casing for carrying a developer; a pair of upright portions arranged on another end portion of the casing at an interval from each other in the axial direction of the developer carrier to extend from another end portion of the casing in a detaching direction for the developer cartridge; and an elastically deformable coupling portion extending in the axial direction of the developer carrier for coupling the upright portions with each other.
US09201387B2 Image forming apparatus
In one embodiment of an image forming apparatus of the present invention, the image forming apparatus includes an opening/closing cover that is supported so as to be capable of moving relative to an image forming apparatus main body and opens/closes an opening portion of the image forming apparatus main body; and a unit installed so as to be capable of swinging on an image forming apparatus main body side of the opening/closing cover, in which when the opening/closing cover is opened/closed, the unit moves in a track that moves around a guide shaft of the unit, and in a track that moves so as to follow opening/closing of the opening/closing cover.
US09201382B2 Image forming apparatus having waste toner collecting function from a plurality of photosensitive drums
An image forming apparatus includes a main frame, a plurality of process cartridges, a cartridge-supporting body, a belt, a waste toner cartridge, a contact-separation mechanism, and a collective conveying unit. Each process cartridge includes a photosensitive drum and a drum cleaning unit collecting waste toner on the drum. The cartridge-supporting body is movable between an internal position inside the frame and an external position outside the frame. The belt confronts the process cartridges in the internal position. The waste toner cartridge accommodates the waste toner collected from the drums. The contact-separation mechanism moves the cartridge-supporting body between a contact position where the drums are in contact with the belt and a separated position where the drums are out of contact with the belt. The collective conveying unit aggregates waste toner collected from drums and conveys collectively the aggregated waste toner to the waste toner cartridge.
US09201378B2 Cleaning unit, process cartridge incorporating same, and image forming apparatus incorporating same
A cleaning unit, which is included in a process cartridge or an image forming apparatus, includes a brush rotary body to remove toner, a toner collecting rotary body to collect the toner, a toner collecting blade to scrape the toner, and a cleaning blade to scrape the toner falling from the brush rotary body. The image carrier, the brush rotary body, and the toner collecting rotary body rotate in the same direction. The cleaning blade, the brush rotary body, and the toner collecting rotary body are located to cause a tangential line passing through a contact area of the brush rotary body and the toner collecting rotary body on an outer peripheral circle around a shaft of the brush rotary body to have an intersection point intersecting a non-contact surface of the cleaning blade disposed opposite to a contact portion of the cleaning blade with the image carrier.
US09201376B2 Laser printer toner cartridge seal and method
A reassembled laser printer toner cartridge and method of manufacture including a cartridge seal assembly in which the remains of an OEM laser printer toner cartridge's toner hopper pull seal strip(s) is left in position, or a substitute conductive strip is put in the same position to simulate the OEM pull seal strip(s) if the OEM strips have been damages or are missing in order to enable a repaired or remanufactured cartridge to cooperate with the printer in detecting measuring and displaying the amount of toner consumed from the cartridge and shut the printer down, once the toner cartridge is empty, and a toner cartridge hopper foam seal strip assembly that covers the remnants of the OEM seal strips and provides a seal to prevent leakage of toner from the re-filled toner cartridge.
US09201374B2 Image forming apparatus
According to one embodiment, an image forming apparatus having an image erasing function to erase an image formed on a recording medium. The apparatus has a heating unit to erase an image, a conveying unit, and a control unit. The control unit controls the conveying unit, when the image is erased, and also when a heating temperature of the heating unit is lower than an erasing temperature, to make the recording medium once stand by at a position in the middle of a conveying path of the conveying unit, and then to convey the recording medium to the heating unit.
US09201368B2 Fixing device and image forming apparatus with inclined regulation surface
A fixing device includes a fixing roller, a pressure roller, and a regulation member. The fixing roller includes a roller member and a fixing belt. The roller member includes a shaft which extends in one direction and an elastic layer integrally formed on the shaft. Each regulation member has an annular regulation surface which opposes a side edge of the fixing belt, and is configured to regulate movement of the fixing belt in a rotation axis direction. The regulation surface is inclined relative to a line perpendicular to the rotation axis as viewed on a cross-section parallel to the rotation axis. The regulation surface is inclined from the rotation axis side such that the closer the regulation surface is to an outside, in a radial direction, of the fixing roller, the closer the regulation surface is to a center, in a length direction, of the shaft.
US09201365B2 Image forming apparatus
An image forming apparatus, including: photoconductor; charging unit; exposing unit; developing unit containing toner; transfer unit; and fixing unit, wherein the toner includes external additive and base particles containing binder resin, colorant, and release agent, the toner has melt viscosity at 100° C. of 500 Pa·s to 8,000 Pa·s and the release agent has melt viscosity at 100° C. of 20 mPa·s to 30 mPa·s, the fixing unit includes fixing member that has roller or belt shape and contacts toner image transferred onto recording medium, and the fixing member includes release layer on surface thereof that is to be brought into contact with the toner image transferred onto the recording medium, and wherein the release layer satisfies the following expressions: 45≦θc1≦60, and 10≦θc1−θc2, where θc1 denotes receding contact angle [°] of the release agent to the release layer and θc2 denotes receding contact angle [°] of the release agent to the toner.
US09201355B2 Image heating apparatus
An image heating apparatus includes: an endless belt configured to heat an image on a sheet at a nip; a heating mechanism configured to heat the endless belt; a fan configured to send air toward a predetermined region of the endless belt; a heat pipe configured to move heat in a direction of uniformizing a temperature distribution of the endless belt with respect to a widthwise direction of the endless belt; and a controller configured to operate the fan such that the air flow rate is larger during heating of the image on a predetermined sheet providing an overlapping positional relationship with the predetermined region, than the air flow rate during the heating of the image on a sheet providing a non-overlapping positional relationship with the predetermined region.
US09201353B2 Intermediate transfer member and method of manufacture
According to various embodiments, the present teachings provide an intermediate transfer member including a layer having a phosphorous containing polyamideimide having dispersed therein a conductive additive. A method of manufacturing the intermediate transfer member is provided.
US09201352B2 Transfer belt, transfer belt unit, and image formation apparatus
A transfer belt used in an image formation apparatus is provided with surface characteristics that Vickers hardness of an outer peripheral surface of the transfer belt is within a range between being equal to or above 39 N/mm2 and equal to or below 60 N/mm2, and a low-load creep of the outer peripheral surface is within a range between being equal to or above −45% and equal or to below 0%.
US09201350B2 Image forming apparatus with initialization mechanism
Provided is an image forming apparatus including plural image holding members that have toner images formed on respective surfaces thereof, image forming sections that form the toner images on the plural image holding members, respectively, a belt member that has an endless belt shape, plural transfer members each of which nips the belt member between the transfer member and a corresponding image holding member, a moving mechanism that individually moves the plural transfer members between a first place and a second place, plural rod-shaped rotating members around which the belt member is stretched and rotated, an adjusting member that adjusts a position of the belt member, an initializing mechanism that performs an initialization processing of returning the inclination of the adjusting member to an initial state, and a controller that starts the initialization processing by the initializing mechanism.
US09201349B2 Developing device, image forming apparatus
Developing device includes developing roller and magnetic roller. Developing roller includes aluminum oxide thin film and resin coat layer. Magnetic roller is disposed to face, without contact, outer circumferential surface of developing roller, and includes aluminum oxide thin film formed on outer circumferential surface of base body that is made of metal including aluminum. Magnetic roller forms toner layer on surface of developing roller via magnetic brush composed of toner and magnetic carrier. AC impedance Z1 is in range from 1.0×105Ω to 1.0×106Ω and surface roughness Ra of resin coat layer is in range from 0.057 μm to 0.280 μm, AC impedance Z1 being obtained when AC voltage at predetermined frequency is applied to between base body of magnetic roller and base body of developing roller in a state where the magnetic brush is formed on magnetic roller.
US09201346B2 Powder transport device, developing device, and image forming apparatus
A powder transport device includes a transport path having a supply port. Powder supplied through the supply port together with old powder already contained in the transport path is transported through the transport path. The powder transport device also includes a transport member, which is rotatably disposed in the transport path and includes a rotational shaft and a spiral blade disposed on the rotational shaft. The powder supplied through the supply port and the old powder are transported toward a downstream side in a powder transporting direction and mixed with each other by rotation of the transport member. The transport path includes a regulating portion regulating transportation of powder that is a mixture of the powder supplied through the supply port and the old powder toward the downstream side. The transport member includes an accumulation portion that opposes the regulating portion and causes the powder to accumulate.
US09201345B2 Image-forming apparatus, toner container and toner container installation structure
An image-forming apparatus and toner container installation structure used in the image-forming apparatus, includes: a toner container with a toner container body, being attached to a fitting section in a body of the image-forming apparatus in a detachable manner. There is a latent image-bearing member, a developing unit, for developing the latent image with a toner supplied from the toner container body; an ID chip provided in the toner container, having a plurality of through-hole electrodes; and a substrate provided in the fitting section, having a plurality of pin electrodes. The pin electrodes are fitted into the through-hole electrodes when the toner container is attached to the fitting section.
US09201344B2 Toner container
A toner container is configured to be insertable into an image forming device. The toner container comprises a toner container body including a toner chamber in which toner is stored and a toner discharge port provided at one end portion, a cover portion configured to cover the toner container body, a first projection provided at one end in a length direction of the cover portion to be orthogonal to a top surface of the cover portion, and a second projection projecting along an inserting direction into the image forming device at the other end in the length direction of the cover portion or a length direction of the toner container body. A surface of the first projection directed to the other end in the length direction along the inserting direction into the image forming device is an inclined portion.
US09201343B2 Development apparatus and image forming apparatus
A development apparatus includes a developer carrier to develop an electrostatic latent image using a developer, a first and second developer supply members each to supply the developer to the developer carrier. Hs1, Δ1, t1, Hs2, Δ2, and t2 satisfy a following formula below, 10≦Hs1×(Δ1/t1)+Hs2×(Δ2/t2)≦50 Herein, Hs1 is a hardness of the outer peripheral surface of the first developer supply member, t1 is a layer thickness of an elastic layer of the first developer supply member, Δ1 is an NIP amount that is determined when the first developer supply member is in press-contact with the developer carrier, Hs2 is a hardness of the outer peripheral surface of the second developer supply member, t2 is a layer thickness of an elastic layer of the second developer supply member, and Δ2 is an NIP amount that is determined when the second developer supply member is in press-contact with the developer carrier.
US09201341B2 Developer container, developing device, processing unit, image forming device, and method of manufacturing developer container
A developer container includes: a container body that stores a developer and includes a filling port for the developer; and a container terminal that is attachable to and detachable from the container body. The container body is provided with an identifier that engages with the container terminal and is caused to change own form that can be identified from an outside, by an external force that is applied to detach the container terminal from the container body. The container body is provided with a flow preparation part that separates an inside and outside of the container body before changing the form of the identifier and that allows the air to flow between the inside and outside of the container body after changing the form of the identifier.
US09201339B2 Image forming apparatus measuring developer amount in developing device on the basis of duty ratio of magnetic permeability of developer in developing device
An image forming apparatus includes a developing device, a magnetic permeability detecting part and a developer amount measuring part. The developing device develops an image carrier by a contained developer. The magnetic permeability detecting part detects magnetic permeability of the developer in the developing device. The developer amount measuring part calculates a duty ratio of the magnetic permeability of the developer in the developing device on the basis of detected result of the magnetic permeability detecting part and measures a developer amount in the developing device on the basis of the duty ratio.
US09201338B2 Image forming apparatus, non-transitory computer readable medium, and image forming method
An image forming apparatus includes an image forming unit and a controller. The image forming unit forms an image on each medium with a metallic toner. The controller controls the image forming unit such that, in the formation of an image on each medium of plural media different in reflectance, the metallic toner has a toner weight according to the medium.
US09201337B2 Developing roller
A developing roller in which the decay rate of the surface potential is high and in which an image failure caused by the accumulation of electric charge does not occur is provided. The developing roller 10 includes a shaft 1, an elastic layer 2 supported on the outer periphery of the shaft, and at least one coating layer 3, 4 formed on the outer periphery of the elastic layer. The volume resistivity of a layer on the inner periphery side of the elastic layer and the coating layer is smaller than the volume resistivity of a layer on the outer periphery side, and the difference between the volume resistivities of the elastic layer and the coating layer positioned on the outermost periphery side is in the range of 2.8 to 4.3 (Log Ωcm).
US09201335B2 Dynamic adjustable focus for LED writing bars using piezoelectric stacks
According to aspects of the embodiments, there is provided methods of dynamically focusing an LED print bar or printhead using piezoelectric stacks. The stack is mounted on either end of the LED bar to adjust the focus of the bar against the photoreceptor surface. The piezo level could be either controlled through active feedback of some description such as optical or electrical, or as a service or manufacturing input. With electronic control, focus adjustments can be made by the machine, and dynamically, if needed. In one embodiment, a flextensional cell structure is employed to amplify the movement of the piezo stack to move the LED bar in the order of >50 microns closer or away from the photoreceptor surface.
US09201333B2 Heat-shrinkable resin tube and rotary member for image forming apparatus
Provided is a heat-shrinkable resin tube for forming a resin layer on a rotary member for an image forming part, such as a charging roller, a developing roller, or a transfer roller, a rotary member for support, or a rotary member for paper discharge in an image forming apparatus, in which a maximum depth of at least one linear scratch on a surface of the heat-shrinkable resin tube is 0.8 μm or less. A maximum length of the at least one linear scratch may be 1 mm or less, the resin tube may have a thickness of 100 μm or less, and the at least one linear scratch may extend in a direction parallel to an axial direction of the resin tube or in a direction tilted by 20° or less with respect to the axial direction.
US09201331B2 Image forming apparatus, image correcting method, computer readable storage medium, image correction unit and image forming system
An image forming apparatus includes: at least one first image carrier configured to carry an electrostatic latent image thereon; an image writing unit; a second image carrier configured to move along a transfer position facing to the at least one first image carrier; a first transfer unit provided opposite to the at least one first image carrier; a second transfer unit configured to transfer the subject image to a transfer material; a test pattern detection unit configured to detect the test pattern image; a control unit configured to correct an image forming condition of the subject image based on a result from the detection of the test pattern image, wherein the test pattern image is provided on the second image carrier at an area being out of the image forming area and being at the same range as the subject image in a scanning direction.
US09201328B2 Core material for resin-filled ferrite carrier and ferrite carrier for electrophotographic developer, and electrophotographic developer using the ferrite carrier
Disclosed are a resin-filled ferrite carrier core material for an electrophotographic developer, including a porous ferrite particle having an average compression strength of 100 mN or more and a coefficient of variation of the compression strength of 50% or less, a ferrite carrier obtained by filling a resin in the voids of the ferrite carrier core material, and an electrophotographic developer using the ferrite carrier.
US09201326B2 Toner, developer and image forming apparatus
A toner including: a binder resin containing a non-crystalline resin and a crystalline resin; a colorant; and, a releasing agent, wherein the releasing agent has a melting point of 55° C. to 80° C., and wherein the toner satisfies the following Expressions 1 and 2: (Expression 1): 20,000 Pa·s≦G1≦50,000 Pa·s; and (Expression 2): (G4/G2)/(G3/G1) 1.00, where G1 is a storage modulus, G2 is a loss modulus, G3 is a storage modulus and G4 is a loss modulus, and the storage modulus G1 and the loss modulus G2 are measured at 80° C. when the toner is heated from 70° C. to 150° C. and the storage modulus G3 and the loss modulus G4 are measured at 80° C. when the toner heated to 150° C. is cooled to 70° C.
US09201325B2 Toner containing crystalline polyester
A toner including a binder resin which contains a crystalline polyester resin and a non-crystalline polyester resin, wherein the crystalline polyester resin has at least two diffraction peaks in a range of 20°<2θ<25° as detected by X-ray diffraction measurement, and has a melting point which is 60° C. or higher but lower than 80° C., and wherein the diffraction peaks each have a half width which is less than 1.0°.
US09201321B2 Process for preparing polyester emulsions
A phase inversion emulsification process includes dissolving a polyester resin in a mixture comprising (1) an organic solvent, (2) a first portion of a total amount of neutralizing agent, and (3) a first portion of water, neutralizing the dissolved polyester resin with a second portion of neutralizing agent, the second portion of neutralizing agent including the remaining amount of the total amount neutralizing agent, forming an emulsion by adding a second portion of water after the neutralizing step, and removing a portion of the organic solvent from the emulsion to provide a latex.
US09201320B2 Production process of organic photoreceptor
Disclosed is a production process of an organic photoreceptor which can suppress occurrence of uneven density and image defects. The production process of an organic photoreceptor, the organic photoreceptor including an intermediate layer and an organic photosensitive layer on the intermediate layer, includes: applying a coating liquid for forming the intermediate layer to a conductive support to form a coating film, the coating liquid being obtained by dissolving a binder resin in a solvent and dispersing first and second metal oxide fine particles therein; and drying the coating film. The Pe number of the first metal oxide fine particles is two or more times larger than that of the second metal oxide fine particles. Pe number=(6πμEHR)/kT  Equation (1):
US09201319B2 Image bearing member, manufacturing method of the same, image forming method, image forming apparatus, and process cartridge
An image bearing member includes a substrate, and a photosensitive layer overlying the substrate, wherein an uppermost surface layer of the image bearing member has a hydrocarbon compound represented by the following Chemical Formula 1; and a three-dimensionally cross-linked polymer formed by polymerization reaction of a charge transport compound having three or more [tetrahydro-2H-pyran-2-yl)oxy]methyl groups linked with aromatic rings, wherein, in the polymerization reaction, part of the three or more [(tetrahydro-2H-pyran-2-yl)oxy]methyl groups is severed and detached from the charge transport compound, Ph1-Q1-Ph2-Q2-Ph3  Chemical Formula 1 where Q1 and Q2 independently represent methylene groups or ethylene groups, Ph1 and Ph3 independently represent phenyl groups with which one or two methyl groups are bonded, and Ph2 represents a phenylene group or a phenylene group having one methyl group.
US09201314B2 Apparatus for preparing relief printing form
The invention provides an apparatus for preparing a relief printing form from a photosensitive element. More specifically, this invention describes an apparatus for preparing a relief form in an environment having controlled oxygen concentration during exposure to actinic radiation. The apparatus includes means for exposing a photosensitive element having an in-situ mask to actinic radiation through the in-situ mask in an environment having an inert gas and a concentration of oxygen between 190,000 and 100 ppm, and treating the exposed element to form the relief printing form having a pattern of raised surface areas.
US09201313B2 Compact encoder head for interferometric encoder system
An encoder system includes an encoder scale and an encoder head, in which the encoder head is configured to combine each twice-diffracted measurement beam of multiple twice-diffracted measurement beams with a corresponding reference beam to form multiple output beams, where the encoder head includes a monolithic optical component having multiple facets, the multiple facets being arranged to: receive multiple once-diffracted measurement beams from a surface of the encoder scale; and redirect the multiple once-diffracted measurement beams back towards the surface of the encoder scale, the encoder scale being positioned in a path of the once-diffracted measurement beams to produce the twice-diffracted measurement beams.
US09201310B2 Method of measuring overlay error and a device manufacturing method
The overlay error of a target in a scribelane is measured. The overlay error of the required feature in the chip area may differ from this due to, for example, different responses to the exposure process. A model is used to simulate these differences and thus a more accurate measurement of the overlay error of the feature determined.
US09201306B2 Method for producing optical orientation film, method for producing retardation film, system for producing optical orientation film, optical orientation film and retardation film
A method for producing an optical orientation film is disclosed, the method being able to realize highly accurate exposure in a pattern, even if a simple device and non-parallel light are used and a long continuous resin substrate is used and fed continuously. The method for producing the optical orientation film includes the steps of: (i) preparing an irradiation target substrate and a long continuous photomask (ii) feeding the irradiation target substrate continuously; (iii) feeding the photomask continuously; (iv) producing a laminate by laminating the photomask fed in step (iii) on an orientation layer of the irradiation target substrate fed in step (ii); (v) exposing the orientation layer in the pattern by irradiating with light, while feeding the laminate obtained in step (iv) in the longitudinal direction of the laminate; and (vi) removing the photomask from the laminate irradiated in step (v).
US09201305B2 Spin-on compositions of soluble metal oxide carboxylates and methods of their use
The present disclosure relates to spin-on compositions containing at least one metal oxide dicarboxylate and an organic solvent into which the metal oxide dicarboxylate is soluble or colloidally stable. The dicarboxylate is capable of decomposing during heat treatment to give a cured metal oxide film. The present disclosure also relates to method of using the spin-on compositions.
US09201304B2 Pattern forming process
A pattern is formed by coating a resist composition comprising a resin comprising recurring units having an acid labile group, a photoacid generator, and a first organic solvent onto a processable substrate, prebaking, exposing, PEB, and developing in an organic solvent developer to form a negative pattern; heating the negative pattern to render it resistant to a second organic solvent; coating a solution containing Si, Ti, Zr, Hf, and/or Al and the second organic solvent thereon, prebaking, and dry etching to effect image reversal for converting the negative pattern into a positive pattern.
US09201295B2 High efficiency LED optical engine for a digital light processing (DLP) projector and method of forming same
An optical light engine (100) includes one or more light-emitting diode (LED) panels (101, 102, 103) that are combined into a common path and directly imaged onto panel device to provide a source of light to a microdisplay panel (109). Preferably, the LED panel (101, 102, 103) is shaped such that the aspect ratio of light propagating the LED panel is substantially equal to the light received at the microdisplay panel (109). An aspect ratio of 4:3 or 16:9 is typically selected in view of the sizes of the LED panels used in the light engine.
US09201294B2 Laser module and scanner projector
A laser module includes a first laser light source, a second laser light source, and a third laser light source. Laser beams of the laser light sources are combinable into an overall laser beam. The laser beam of the first laser light source and the laser beam of the second laser light source have a first polarization, and the laser beam of the third laser light source has a second polarization. The laser beams of the first and the third laser light sources are coupled into the overall laser beam with the aid of mirror devices. The laser beam of the second laser light source is split, the polarization of the laser beam of the second laser light source being changed from the first polarization to the second polarization in a splitting path. The laser beam of the second laser light source having the second polarization is coupled into the overall laser beam via the splitting path, and the laser beam of the second laser light source having the first polarization is coupled into the overall laser beam via a main path.
US09201292B1 Camera motion damping
A camera motion control system has a camera mount supported by one or more rotary damper assemblies. At least one of the rotary damper assemblies has a damped axle protruding from a damping fluid housing. A diaphragm seal is affixed to and spans both the axle and the damping fluid housing to seal the damping fluid in the damping fluid housing.
US09201290B2 Interchangeable lens camera, camera body, lens unit, and busy signal control method
An aspect of the present invention provides an interchangeable lens camera having a camera body and a lens unit that is freely attachable and detachable to the camera body. In the interchangeable lens camera, a communications unit in the camera body sends via communications terminals (MT_MOSI and MT_MISO) an INTR_BUSY control instruction that instructs whether to make notification with a busy signal (INTR_BUSY signal) for any operation out of a plurality of types of operations that can be executed, and the lens unit or camera body communications unit sets the busy signal (INTR_BUSY) to an ON state (low level) only during the period of operation of the type indicated by the INTR_BUSY control instruction.
US09201286B2 Method and apparatus for wavelength selective switch
Apparatus and method embodiments are provided for implementing a wavelength selective switch (WSS). The embodiments use combinations of switchable polarization grating (SPG) and LC cells and combinations of polymer polarization grating (PPG) and LC cells to achieve 1×N WSS systems. An embodiment optical switch includes a liquid crystal cell and a polymer polarization grating (PPG) cell adjacent to the liquid crystal cell. The PPG includes a glass substrate, a photo-alignment layer overlying the glass substrate and comprising photosensitive polymer that has been physically altered by exposure using two interfering light beams with opposite handedness of circular polarization, and a polymerized liquid crystal layer overlying the photo-alignment layer on an opposite side of the glass substrate, the polymerized liquid crystal layer has been physically altered by illumination using a uniform light beam.
US09201284B2 Electrophoretic device, display unit, and electronic apparatus
An electrophoretic device includes: a porous layer including a first fibrous structure and a non-electrophoretic particle held in the first fibrous structure; an electrophoretic particle configured to move through a space formed at the porous layer; a second fibrous structure covering the porous layer; and a partition provided from the porous layer to the second fibrous structure.
US09201282B2 Electrophoretic display device
The invention relates to an electrophoretic display device, to a driver circuit for use in the electrophoretic display device and to chargeable or charged pigment particles for use in the electrophoretic display device. The electrophoretic display device comprises a pixel comprising charged pigment particles for determining a pigmentation of the pixel. The pixel comprises an aperture area being a visible part of the pixel determining the pigmentation of the pixel. The pixel further comprises a storage area for storing the charged pigment particles away from the aperture area. The pixel comprises an accumulation electrode arranged at the storage area for accumulating the charged pigment particles away from the aperture area, and comprises a field electrode occupying a field-electrode area being at least a part of the aperture area of the pixel. The charged pigment particles are movable between the accumulation electrode and the field electrode under control of an electric field. A dimension of the charged pigment particles is selected sufficiently small to obtain a uniform distribution of charged pigment particles across the field-electrode area.
US09201280B2 Semiconductor device
A semiconductor device includes an oxide semiconductor layer provided over a substrate having an insulating surface; a gate insulating film covering the oxide semiconductor layer; a first conductive layer and a second conductive layer laminated in this order over the gate insulating film; an insulating film covering the oxide semiconductor layer and a gate wiring including a gate electrode (the first and second conductive layers); and a third conductive layer and a fourth conductive layer laminated in this order over the insulating film and electrically connected to the oxide semiconductor layer. The gate electrode is formed using the first conductive layer. The gate wiring is formed using the first conductive layer and the second conductive layer. A source electrode is formed using the third conductive layer. A source wiring is formed using the third conductive layer and the fourth conductive layer.
US09201278B2 Array substrate and display device comprising a first transparent conductive layer having a plurality of protrusions corresponding to a plurality of slit structures
The embodiments of the present invention disclose an array substrate and a display device. The array substrate comprises a substrate and a first transparent conductive layer, an insulating layer and a second transparent conductive layer sequentially formed on the substrate, wherein the second transparent conductive layer has a plurality of slit structures, the first transparent conductive layer has a plurality of protrusions corresponding to the plurality of slit structures, and a height of the plurality of protrusions is smaller than a distance between the first transparent conductive layer and the second transparent conductive layer.
US09201276B2 Process architecture for color filter array in active matrix liquid crystal display
An active matrix liquid crystal display having an array of pixels is provided. The display includes a thin film transistor (TFT) for each pixel. The TFT has a gate electrode, a source electrode overlapping with a first area of the gate electrode, and a drain electrode overlapping with a second area with the gate electrode. The display also includes a color filter layer disposed over the TFT. The color filter layer has a first via hole to expose a portion of the drain electrode. The display further includes a metal layer disposed over the color filter layer and covering the gate electrode. The metal layer is configured to connect to the drain electrode through the first via hole. The display also includes an organic insulator layer disposed over the metal layer. The organic insulator layer has a second via hole to expose a first portion of the metal layer and a third via hole to expose a second portion of the metal layer.
US09201274B2 Vertical alignment liquid crystal display device and method for driving same
A vertical alignment liquid crystal display device (VA-LCD) includes a display panel. The display panel includes a plurality of pixels. Each pixel unit includes a first thin film transistor (TFT), a second TFT, and a liquid crystal capacitor having a pixel electrode and a common electrode. The common electrode is applied with a common voltage, a first gray voltage is applied to the pixel electrode through a first TFT, and a second gray voltage is applied to the pixel electrode through a second TFT different from the first gray voltage, such that liquid crystal capacitor maintains two different gray voltages in a display frame time of the VA-LCD.
US09201267B2 Optical film and liquid crystal display
An optical film includes a first optical layer and a second optical layer. The first optical layer is disposed above the second optical layer. The second optical layer is a composite material layer, which includes a base material and a doping layer disposed in the base material. The optical film recycles an exterior light source and improves the utilization rate of the light source.
US09201265B2 Liquid crystal display and method of manufacturing the same
An exemplary embodiment provides a liquid crystal display including: a substrate; a first wire grid polarizer; a thin film transistor; a pixel electrode; a roof layer; and a plurality of microcavities. The substrate has a bottom surface and a top surface. The first wire grid polarizer is disposed on the bottom surface of the substrate. The thin film transistor is disposed on the top surface of the substrate. The pixel electrode is connected to the thin film transistor. The roof layer is disposed to face the pixel electrode. The plurality of microcavities having injection holes are formed between the pixel electrode and the roof layer, the microcavities forming a liquid crystal layer containing liquid crystal molecules.
US09201264B2 Liquid crystal display, panel therefor, and manufacturing method thereof
A display panel includes a substrate, a partition formed on the substrate and defining a plurality of openings, a plurality of color filters formed in the openings and having a substantially uniform thickness within each respective opening, and a spacer formed on the partition. The color filters and the spacer are formed through inkjet printing. The color filters have the substantially uniform thickness by the partition having a height which is greater than the thickness of the color filters during the inkjet printing. The height of the partition may be in a range of about 1.5 to about 2 times the thickness of the color filter.
US09201260B2 Liquid crystal display device and production method thereof
A method of producing a display device includes: applying a UV curing resin, in a rectangular pattern with openings at four corners thereof, to a part outside of an effective display region of an adherend surface of either one of a front panel and a display panel; irradiating the UV curing resin with UV rays to effect tentative curing thereof, thereby forming a dam pattern; applying a UV curing resin to an adherend surface of the other of the front panel or the display panel; adhering the one panel and the other panel to each other; irradiating, with respect to the one panel and the other panel adhered to each other, four corner areas where the dam pattern has not been formed; and irradiating the one panel and the other panel adhered to each other with UV rays to effect full curing of the UV curing resins.
US09201257B2 Liquid crystal display and manufacturing method thereof
A liquid crystal display includes: an insulation substrate; a microcavity layer disposed on the insulation substrate and having a reversed taper side wall; a pixel electrode disposed in the microcavity layer on the insulation substrate; a liquid crystal layer disposed in the microcavity layer; and a common electrode which covers the liquid crystal layer.
US09201256B2 Three-dimensional display and method for manufacturing the same
A three-dimensional display and method for manufacturing the same are provided. The three-dimensional display includes a display panel, a liquid crystal layer, an aligning layer and an adhesive layer. The liquid crystal layer is disposed on a side of the display panel. The aligning layer formed from a curable resin is disposed on a side of the liquid crystal layer opposite to the display panel and comprises a plurality of first aligning regions and a plurality of second aligning regions. The adhesive layer is disposed between the display panel and the liquid crystal layer, wherein the display panel and the liquid crystal layer are adhered by the adhesive layer. Wherein the pencil hardness of the aligning layer is in the range of 1B to 4H, and the adhesion of the adhesive layer is in the range of 50 gf/25 mm to 1500 gf/25 mm.
US09201255B2 Apparatus, methods and computer programs for configuring output of a display
Apparatus including a first liquid crystal layer configured to receive at least a portion of an image and to provide the portion of the image across an angular viewing range; first substantially transparent electrodes positioned adjacent the first liquid crystal layer, the first electrodes being configured to have at least a first configuration in which a first subset of the electrodes provide electric fields across the first liquid crystal layer to form first transparent regions and first opaque regions in the first liquid crystal layer to provide a first angular viewing range, and a second configuration in which a second subset of the electrodes provide electric fields across the first liquid crystal layer to form second different transparent regions and second different opaque regions in the first liquid crystal layer to provide a second angular viewing range, having a different angular viewing range to the first angular viewing range.
US09201252B2 Cleaning tool
A cleaning tool is configured to remove debris from a glass surface. The cleaning tool includes an upper arm mechanically coupled to an upper pad. A lower arm is rotationally coupled to the upper arm and mechanically coupled to a lower pad. The upper pad and the lower pad are configured to clean both sides of the glass surface at once.
US09201250B2 Lenses, devices, methods and systems for refractive error
The present disclosure is directed to lenses, devices, methods and/or systems for addressing refractive error. Certain embodiments are directed to changing or controlling the wavefront of the light entering a human eye. The lenses, devices, methods and/or systems can be used for correcting, addressing, mitigating or treating refractive errors and provide excellent vision at distances encompassing far to near without significant ghosting. The refractive error may for example arise from myopia, hyperopia, or presbyopia with or without astigmatism. Certain disclosed embodiments of lenses, devices and/or methods include embodiments that address foveal and/or peripheral vision. Exemplary of lenses in the fields of certain embodiments include contact lenses, corneal onlays, corneal inlays, and lenses for intraocular devices both anterior and posterior chamber, accommodating intraocular lenses, electro-active spectacle lenses and/or refractive surgery.
US09201249B2 Eyeglasses
Eyeglasses include a front with a pair of lenses and a first arm and a second arm, which are articulated to sides of the front via respective hinges and are able to turn between an extended position and a folded position where they are set the first behind and the second in front of the front. A hinge for articulation of the second arm is connected to the front in such a way that it can turn through 180° about an axis orthogonal to an axis of the hinge. The arms may moreover incorporate a front lighting system and/or a voice-recognition sensor.
US09201246B2 Controller, display device, eyeglass device and video system for controlling an eyeglass device based on an environmental factor
A controller for controlling an eyeglass device which performs an assistance operation for assisting in stereoscopically viewing a video includes: a first acquisition portion for acquiring first frequency information relating to a display frequency of frame images of the video; a second acquisition portion for acquiring second frequency information relating to an environmental factor which periodically varies in an environment where the video is viewed; and a generator for generating a reference signal to adapt the assistance operation of the eyeglass device to display of the frame image and periodic variation of the environmental factor on the basis of the first frequency information and the second frequency information.
US09201244B2 Goggle type display system
To provide a goggle type display device system that can prevent harm to user's health. If anomaly is recognized in mind and body of a user, first video signals provided from an external device stop being displayed on LCD panels and, instead, outside scenery taken by CCD image capture elements is displayed. The user may be alarmed by this about anomaly of his or her body and, further, relaxed by looking at the outside scenery presented.
US09201237B2 Diffraction-based sensing of mirror position
Scanning apparatus includes a transmitter, which is configured to emit a beam comprising pulses of light, and a scanning mirror, which is configured to scan the beam over a scene. A receiver is configured to receive the light reflected from the scene and to generate an output indicative of the pulses returned from the scene. A grating is formed on an optical surface in the apparatus and is configured to diffract a portion of the beam at a predetermined angle, so as to cause the diffracted portion to be returned from the scanning mirror to the receiver. A controller is coupled to process the output of the receiver so as to detect the diffracted portion and to monitor a scan of the mirror responsively thereto.
US09201236B2 Display apparatus with stiction reduction features
A display apparatus includes a plurality of electromechanical systems (EMS) devices disposed on a first surface defined by a face of a substrate. Each EMS device includes a component which is movable in a plane that is substantially parallel to the first surface. The apparatus also includes a second surface positioned proximate to the substrate such that the plurality of EMS devices are located between the first surface and the second surface. In addition, each EMS device includes at least one anti-stiction projection positioned between the movable component and the second surface.
US09201233B2 Microscope and darkfield objective
A microscope includes a microscope main body and a darkfield objective. The microscope main body includes a light source unit and a main body side fitting unit for fitting an objective, and the darkfield objective includes an optical system for capturing light from a sample surface and a fitting unit that fits in the main body side fitting unit. A darkfield illumination optical path through which light from the light source unit passes is formed in the darkfield objective. When the darkfield objective is attached to the microscope main body, the darkfield objective has incident end of the darkfield illumination optical path outside the fitting unit, where an optical axis of the optical system is central.
US09201232B2 Autofocus apparatus
An autofocus apparatus includes, in one embodiment, a light source; a splitter; a fiber optic circulator; an optical collimator; a balance detector; and a microprocessor. The fiber optic circulator couples one of the split light signals at a first port, to the optical collimator at a second port, and to the balance detector at the third port. The optical collimator directs the light beam from the fiber optic circulator onto a sample through a Dichroic mirror and a microscope objective. The balance detector uses another one of the split light signals as an input, and converts a light signal, reflected off of a substrate the sample is placed on, into an analog voltage signal. The microprocessor processes the output of the balance detector and position feedbacks from an adjustable microscopy stage to generate a command for moving the position of the adjustable microscopy stage to achieve a desired focus.
US09201224B2 Projector zoom lens and projector
A projector zoom lens includes a first lens group having a negative refractive power and a second lens group having a positive refractive power. The first lens group includes a first front group having a negative refractive power and a first rear group having a positive refractive power, including a positive meniscus lens with a convex surface on an enlargement side. The second lens group includes a second front group having a positive refractive power, including two continuously arranged positive lenses made from a same glass material and having a same surface profile and a second rear group having a negative refractive power, including a biconcave lens and a biconvex lens, the lenses of the first and second lens groups being arranged in order from an enlargement side to a reduction side.
US09201221B2 Wide-angle projection lens and projection display device using the same
A first lens group including two aspherical lenses, a second lens group consisting of three negative meniscus lenses, each negative meniscus lens having a convex surface facing the enlargement side, a third lens group having a negative refractive power and including at least one cemented lens, and a fourth lens group having a positive refractive power and including at least two cemented lenses and one aspherical lens are arranged in this order from the enlargement side. Predetermined conditional expressions are satisfied.
US09201218B2 Imaging lens and imaging apparatus equipped with the imaging lens
An imaging lens is substantially constituted by five lenses, including: a first lens having a positive refractive power; a second lens having a negative refractive power; a third lens having a negative refractive power; a fourth lens having a negative refractive power; a fifth lens having a negative refractive power and an inflection point on the surface thereof toward the image side. All of the first lens through the fifth lens are single lenses, and the imaging lens satisfies predetermined conditional formulae.
US09201217B2 Imaging optical lens assembly
An imaging optical lens assembly includes an aperture stop and an optical assembly, the optical assembly includes, in order from the object side to the image side: a first lens element with a positive refractive power; a second lens element with a refractive power; a third lens element with a refractive power; a fourth lens element with a refractive power; a fifth lens element with a negative refractive power having an image-side surface being convex near an optical axis; wherein the image-side surface of the fifth lens element is formed with at least two inflection points, including a first inflection point and a second inflection point further away from the optical axis, a vertical distance from the first inflection point to the optical axis is Y_inf1, a vertical distance from the second inflection point to the optical axis is Y_inf2, satisfying: 1.7
US09201216B2 Image capturing lens assembly, image capturing device and mobile terminal
An image capturing lens assembly includes, in order from an object side to an image side, a first lens element, a second lens element, a third lens element, a fourth lens element, a fifth lens element, and a sixth lens element. The first lens element with negative refractive power has an object-side surface being convex in a paraxial region thereof and an image-side surface being concave in a paraxial region thereof. The second lens element has positive refractive power. The third lens element has refractive power. The fourth lens element has refractive power. The fifth lens element has negative refractive power, wherein both of the surfaces thereof are aspheric. The sixth lens element with refractive power has an image-side surface being concave in a paraxial region thereof. The image capturing lens assembly has a total of six lens elements with refractive power.
US09201214B2 Imaging lens and imaging apparatus
An imaging lens includes negative first lens having a concave image-side surface, positive second lens having a convex object-side surface in a paraxial region, an aperture stop, and positive third lens having a convex image-side surface in the paraxial region, which are arranged in this order from an object side. The Abbe numbers of materials constituting the first lens and the third lens for d-line are greater than or equal to 40. The Abbe number of a material constituting the second lens for d-line is less than or equal to 40. When the focal length of an entire system is f, and the center thickness of the second lens is D3, and the focal length of the first lens is f1, the following formulas (1′) and (2) are satisfied: 1.7
US09201212B2 Lens module
There is provided a lens module including: a first lens having positive refractive power; a second lens having refractive power, both surfaces thereof being convex; a third lens having refractive power; a fourth lens having positive refractive power; a fifth lens having refractive power; and a sixth lens having positive refractive power and having one or more inflection point formed on an image-side surface thereof, wherein the first, second, third, fourth, fifth and sixth lenses are disposed in a sequential order from the first lens to the sixth lens.
US09201211B2 Imaging device and imaging method for autofocusing
An imaging device includes an imaging lens which obtains an optical image of a subject, an imaging element which receives from a subject light passing through the imaging lens, a focus position determination unit which determines a focus position of the imaging lens according to image data obtained from the imaging element and a lens movement unit which moves the imaging lens, the focus position determination unit including an AF operation start position determination unit configured to calculate an AF evaluation value according to the image data, and determine an AF operation start position according to the AF evaluation value when the lens movement unit drives the imaging lens to a predetermined operation start position.
US09201209B2 Image pickup device
An imaging device includes: a movable lens unit including at least one lens for converging light from a subject and a lens holder supporting the at least one lens; a body base supporting the movable lens unit so as to be capable of moving along a first direction and a second direction which are orthogonal to each other on a plane perpendicular to an optical axis of the at least one lens and along a third direction which is parallel to the optical axis of the at least one lens; an imager being supported by the body base for converting light transmitted through the movable lens unit to an electrical signal; a driving mechanism being provided on the movable unit and/or body base for driving the movable lens unit along the first, second, and third directions; and a plurality of strain detectors provided between the movable unit and the body base.
US09201208B2 Cable having core, jacket and polymeric jacket access features located in the jacket
Cables jacket are formed by extruding discontinuities in a main cable jacket portion. The discontinuities allow the jacket to be torn to provide access to the cable core. The armor cables have an armor layer with armor access features arranged to work in combination with the discontinuities in the cable jacket to facilitate access to the cable core.
US09201207B2 Packaging for encasing an optical fiber in a cable
A cable component is provided that includes at least one optical fiber; and a two shaped profiles having inner and outer surfaces such that the inner surfaces combine to from an enclosure for the at least one optical fiber, wherein a first of the two shaped profiles has a cross sectional arc that is greater than a cross sectional arc of a second of the two shaped profiles.
US09201206B2 Telecommunications cabinet with connector storage
A housing including a plurality of openings for receiving fiber optic connectors and protecting the polished end face of the connectors from damage while the connectors are stored within a telecommunications connection cabinet. A module with a plurality of optical fiber cables connected to a first optical fiber cable and terminated by a fiber optic connector. Each of the connectors are inserted within openings in a connector holder for storage and protection until the cables need to be connected to a customer equipment cable.
US09201201B2 Fiber trays, fiber optical modules, and methods of processing optical fibers
Fiber trays and fiber optic modules and assemblies using the same are disclosed, wherein optical fibers are secured to a fiber tray that is then secured to a body of the fiber module. The body defines a plurality of lenses that reflect light using a total-internal-reflection surface to direct light to active optical components. The fiber tray is secured to the body such that the plurality of optical fibers may be secured within fiber support features of the body that align ends of the optical fibers to the lenses defined by the body. Optical-electrical connectors employing such two-piece fiber optic modules are also disclosed, as well as methods of processing a plurality of optical fibers using a fiber tray.
US09201200B2 Optical assembly with diffractive optical element
An optical assembly comprising: (a) a crystalline substrate having a top planar surface and a crystalline plane angle; (b) at least one groove defined in the top planar surface and having side walls extending from an edge of the substrate to a terminal end, the groove having a first facet at the terminal, the first facet having a first angle relative to the top planar surface, the first facet being reflective; (c) an optical conduit having an optical axis and an end face optically coupled with the first facet; (d) a waveguide; and (e) a diffractive optical element (DOE) disposed above the first facet and configured to couple light between the waveguide and the optical conduit as reflected by the first facet.
US09201192B2 Bending insensitive single mode optical fiber
In one aspect of the invention, the bend insensitive single-mode optical fiber includes a core layer and cladding layers having an inner cladding layer, a trench cladding layer and an outer cladding layer sequentially formed surrounding the core layer from inside to outside. For the core layer, the diameter is 7-7.9 μm, and the relative refractive index difference Δ1 is between 4.6×10−3 and 6.5×10−3. For the inner cladding layer, the diameter is 16.5-20 μm, and a relative refractive index difference Δ2 is between −3×10−4 and 3×10−4. For the trench cladding layer, the diameter is 33-40 μm, and the relative refractive index difference Δ3 is between −2.9×10−3 and −7.3×10−3, changes in a gradient manner and increases gradually from outside to inside, where a relative refractive index difference Δ32 at an outermost interface is smaller than a relative refractive index difference Δ31 at an innermost interface.
US09201190B2 Display device
A display device includes a display panel, a light guide plate (LGP), a light source, and a positioning component. The LGP is disposed on a display surface of the display panel and has an upper surface and a lower surface opposite to each other, a light-incident surface, a first light-guiding block, and a second light-guiding block. A display area of the display panel corresponds to the first light-guiding block. The second light-guiding block extends outside the display area and has at least one recess portion. The recess portion is located on at least one of the upper surface and the lower surface and extends to the light-incident surface. The light source is disposed beside the light-incident surface. The positioning component is disposed on the second light-guiding block and located in the recess portion. Besides, the positioning component extends outside the recess portion and fixes the location of the light source.
US09201184B2 Light guide plate and backlight module
A light guide plate includes a plate body and a light incident portion, wherein the plate body has a top plate surface. The light incident portion is formed on a side of the plate body and has a thickness increasing as the light incident portion extends away from a center of the plate body. In addition, the light incident portion has a top surface connected to the top plate surface and lifted from the top plate surface to include an angle with the top plate surface. The top surface includes a first incline and a second incline, wherein the first incline connects to a side of the top plate surface and has a first average slope. The second incline has a side connected to a side of the first incline opposite to the top plate surface and has a second average slope larger than the first average slope.
US09201183B2 Optical film
An optical film, a circular polarizing plate, and a display device are provided. The optical film may exhibit a desired phase retardation property in a wide wavelength range even when it is relatively thin. The optical film may exhibit the ¼ wavelength phase retardation property. The optical film may be manufactured by a simple process. The optical film may be used in LCDs such as a reflective LCD, or OLEDs.
US09201182B2 Display panel and color filter thereof
A display panel including an active device array substrate, a color filter and a display medium layer is provided. The color filter is disposed above the active device array substrate and includes a substrate and a yellowish photoresist. The yellowish photoresist is disposed between the substrate and the active device array substrate. The yellowish photoresist includes a first fluorescent material, and the optical transmittance in the optical transmitted spectrum of the yellowish photoresist corresponding to the wavelength between 600 nm and 800 nm is greater than 1. The display medium layer is disposed between the active device array substrate and the color filter.
US09201180B2 Color filter array and image obtaining apparatus
A color filter array and image obtaining apparatus are provided. The color filter array includes at least one unit cell having a predetermined array of pixels, and the predetermined array including the color pixels and transparent pixels. Each 2×2 array of pixels in the unit cell includes one transparent pixel and three color pixels and at least one transparent pixel is located in each row or in each column of the unit cell. The image obtaining apparatus generate an electrical image signal corresponding to sensed light that has passed through the color filter array.
US09201178B2 Multi-sectional parabolic collimating mirror
A planar collimator has first and second sections each intersecting at a junction between a first axis and a second axis normal to the first axis. Each of the first and second sections have geometries configured to receive light from a source point located on the first axis and collimate the light at respective positive and negative tilting angles relative to the second axis. The first and second sections direct the collimated light to respective first and second sides of a focusing mirror and away from a gap between the first and second sides of the focusing mirror.
US09201176B2 Light-shielding film
An object of the present invention is to inexpensively manufacture a light-shielding film having excellent heat resistance and dimensional stability, having high light-shielding property and low glossiness and showing little variation in glossiness of the film. The present invention is to provide a light-shielding film containing a polyamide-imide resin, a black filler having average particle size of 0.01 to 1 μm and inorganic particles having average particle size of 0.1 to 10 μm, wherein content of the polyamide-imide resin is 55 to 91% by weight, content of the black filler is 1 to 10% by weight and content of the inorganic particles is 8 to 35% by weight in the light-shielding film.
US09201175B2 Variable power optical system
Liquid lens cells are used in a variable power optical system. In one embodiment, the variable power optical system includes three liquid lens cell groups, wherein at least two of the lens cell groups are configured to provide a zoom function and at least one of the lens cell groups is configured to control an incident angle of light rays on an image surface.
US09201170B2 Method for producing polarizing element
A method for producing a polarizing element includes: forming particulate materials containing a metal halide on a glass substrate; forming a protective film that covers the particulate materials in a plasma environment while reducing the metal halide constituting the particulate materials; and stretching the particulate materials by stretching the glass substrate and the protective film at a temperature at which the glass substrate is softened.
US09201168B2 Polymerizable inorganic-particle dispersant, inorganic-organic composite particles containing said polymerizable inorganic-particle dispersant, and inorganic-organic resin composite material
The present invention provides a polymerizable inorganic particle dispersant that can achieve an inorganic-organic composite particle and inorganic-organic resin composite material, which have a high refractive index and a high Abbe's number, i.e., which can achieve both of a high refractive index and a high Abbe's number that is non-conventional in a composite with an inorganic particle. The present invention relates to a polymerizable inorganic particle dispersant comprising a compound which includes the following functional groups A, B and Q: A: Polymerizable functional group; B: Carboxyl group, Oxo acid group containing a phosphorous or Oxo acid group containing sulfur; and C: Sulfur-containing divalent or more aliphatic hydrocarbon group, which may contain a hetero atom other than sulfur.
US09201163B2 Dual laser article detection system
A detection system has a first laser that directs a first laser trace laterally across a surface of a conveyor from an acute angle. A second laser directs a second laser trace laterally across the surface of the conveyor, in spaced apart alignment with the first laser trace, from an acute angle. A camera images from above a field of view that encompasses at least a portion of the first and second laser traces. An image processing system detects a presence or absence of portions of the first and second laser traces, and determines a feature of one of the conveyor and an article inducted onto the conveyor based upon the detecting of the presence or absence.
US09201162B2 Optical unit, light curtain and method for allocating an individual address
The present invention relates to light curtains and, in particular, to safety light curtains for monitoring a protective field and to optical units of such light curtains which comprise optoelectronic components interconnected by a communication bus and to a method for allocating individual addresses to each of a plurality of optoelectronic components. The optical unit comprises a controller unit, a plurality of optoelectronic components interconnected by means of a communication bus, each of said optoelectronic components having a transmission input terminal for receiving a transmission signal and a transmission output terminal for outputting a transmission signal, and a receiving terminal for receiving a control signal from said control unit. An individual address is allocated to each of said optoelectronic components depending on a position of the respective optoelectronic component with respect to the other optoelectronic components.
US09201158B2 Estimating and displaying molecular size information of a substance
Estimating and displaying information about the size of molecules within a substance from nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) maps and/or logs. Methods include utilizing a relationship between the molecular size (e.g., mean chain length), and either a moment of diffusion or a relaxation distribution, to create a scale on a two-dimensional map. In one case, applying the relationship between the molecular size, and either a moment of diffusion or a relaxation distribution, to one-dimensional diffusion or relaxation distributions for the purpose of estimating the mean chain length of molecules within the substance. In another case, a method includes determining mean chain lengths of molecules within a substance and providing a one-dimensional NMR log showing the mean chain lengths at a plurality of depths. In some cases, the NMR log includes actuatable regions for examining two-dimensional NMR maps or chain length distributions of the substance corresponding with distinct depths of the substance.
US09201154B2 Device and method for denoising ocean bottom data
Computing device, computer instructions and method for denoising marine seismic data recorded with first and second seismic sensors. The method includes receiving first seismic data recorded with the first sensor in a time-space domain; receiving second seismic data recorded with the second sensor in the time-space domain, calculating with a processor models of the first and second seismic data in a transform domain that is different from the time-space domain; calculating in the transform domain an energy related to a down-going energy based on the models of the first and second seismic data; determining a noise in the transform domain corresponding to the second seismic data based on the calculated energy; reverse transforming the noise from the transform domain into the time-space domain; and denoising the second seismic data by subtracting the noise in the time-space domain from the second seismic data.
US09201148B1 Timing error detector for adverse channel conditions
In a receive system, a plurality of correlators correlate a received signal with a plurality of delayed versions of a reference signal to generate a plurality of correlator outputs. A timing error detector estimates an optimal timing based on a set of correlator outputs, and determines a timing error based on (i) the estimated optimal correlation point and (ii) an existing timing, such that the timing error is hard or soft limited between two positive thresholds and two negative thresholds.
US09201144B2 Active object detection sensor
Transmitter elements to transmit a detection ray for object detection, to a transmission area, receiver elements to receive, from a reception area, the detection ray reflected by an object, and a transmission-side optical divider and a reception-side optical divider, disposed in front of the transmitter elements and the receiver elements, respectively, which includes optical dividing pieces having optical deflection surfaces on which a traveling direction angle of the detection ray is varied to angles so as to correspond to division areas, are provided. In the optical dividers, a ratio of an area of a second optical deflection surface that forms a division area that is closer to the sensor, relative to an area of a first optical deflection surface that forms a division area that is farther from the sensor, is set so as to be different between a transmission side and a reception side.
US09201143B2 Assisted guidance navigation
A navigation system helps users navigate through an environment by a plurality of sensors. The sensors include one or both of short and long range sensors that detect objects within the user's environment. Information obtained from the sensors' detection of objects within the user's environment can be used to help the user avoid colliding with objects within the environment and help navigate the user to a destination. The navigation system may provide the user with audible feedback regarding the objects with the user's environment and/or instructions regarding how to avoid colliding with an object and how to navigate to a destination.
US09201137B2 Target object detection device, target object detecting method, computer readable media storing target object detecting program, and radar apparatus
A target object detection device is provided. The device includes an antenna unit for transmitting a detection signal in an observing direction at a predetermined detection cycle and receiving a reflection signal of the detection signal, a receiver for outputting reception data obtained by sampling the reception signal that is received by the antenna unit, a detection data generator for outputting detection data obtained by correlating current reception data with previous detection data, and a detection cycle adjuster for adjusting the detection cycle based on the detection data.
US09201136B2 Methods and systems for presenting weather hazard information on an in-trail procedures display
Systems and methods for improving situational awareness on an in-trails procedures display. A radar system transmits a radar signal and receives and stores weather radar reflectivity values into a three-dimensional buffer. A processor determines whether any of the stored weather reflectivity values indicate the presence of a weather hazard and generates one or more weather hazard icons based on the stored weather reflectivity values. An in-trail procedures display device displays the generated weather hazard icons. Wake vortex information for other aircraft is generated and outputted on the in-trail procedures display. Also, the processor receives a request for an altitude change and generates an alert when the aircraft is determined not to be cleared to transition to the requested altitude based on a projected transition, any existing weather hazards, wake vortices of proximate aircraft, and in-trail procedures.
US09201133B2 Method and system for signal-based localization
In an embodiment of the present invention, a GraphSLAM-like algorithm for signal strength SLAM is presented. This algorithm as an embodiment of the present invention shares many of the benefits of Gaussian processes yet is viable for a broader range of environments since it makes no signature uniqueness assumptions. It is also more tractable to larger map sizes, requiring O(N2) operations per iteration. In the present disclosure, an algorithm according to an embodiment of the present invention is compared to a laser-SLAM ground truth, showing that it produces excellent results in practice.
US09201125B2 Device for the continuous quality control of applied elements
A method for continuous quality control of geometric, structural and functional parameters of an applied element, such as a staple, in printed products. The quality control is realized with the aid of at least one measuring device that comprises at least one measuring head including at least one permanent magnet and at least one giant magneto resistance sensor chip. The applied element is detected with the measuring head and, based thereon, a magnetic image is generated of the condition of the element.
US09201123B2 Magnetic sensor device and a method for fabricating the same
A magnetic sensor device includes a plurality of electrical wires, a magnetic sensor chip, and a magnet. The magnet is formed from a material composition of a polymer and magnetic particles and attached to at least one of the electrical wires.
US09201118B2 Control system for a battery assembly and corresponding method of determining whether a battery assembly can be reused
A control system for a battery assembly that consists of a plurality of batteries determines whether the battery assembly can be reused, by using detected values of the open voltage, internal resistance and full charge capacity of each of the batteries, as evaluation parameters.
US09201117B2 Managing redundancy repair using boundary scans
An IO structure, method, and apparatus are disclosed for using an IEEE™ 1149.1 boundary scan latch to reroute a functional path. The method for a chip using IEEE™ 1149.1 boundary scan latches may include using the IEEE™ 1149.1 boundary scan latches for testing IO on the chip in a test mode. The method may also include using information stored in the IEEE™ 1149.1 boundary scan latches to route signals around a failing path in a functional mode.
US09201116B1 Method of generating test patterns for detecting small delay defects
A method of generating test patterns for testing a semiconductor processor for small delay defects (SDD) includes modifying interconnect delay values of interconnect paths by introducing values corresponding to (i) set-up and clock to Q delays of elements in the paths and (ii) latencies of associated clock networks. Critical nodes are selected and test patterns targeting the selected critical nodes are generated using timing slack resulting from the modified interconnect delays. A first selection of nodes that are critical in at-speed scan mode testing and a second selection of nodes that are critical in functional mode testing are made by static timing analysis (STA). Only the nodes featuring in both the first and second selections are selected for targeting small delay defects using at-speed scan test patterns.
US09201112B2 Atom probe tomography sample preparation for three-dimensional (3D) semiconductor devices
A method for atom probe tomography (APT) sample preparation from a three-dimensional (3D) field effect transistor device formed within a semiconductor structure is provided. The method may include measuring a capacitance-voltage (C-V) characteristic for the 3D field effect transistor device and identifying, based on the measured capacitance-voltage (C-V) characteristic, a Fin structure corresponding to the 3D field effect transistor device. The identified Fin structure is detached from the 3D field effect transistor device using a nanomanipulator probe tip. The detached Fin is then welded to the nanomanipulator probe tip using an incident focused ion beam having a voltage of less than about 1000 eV. The incident focused ion beam having a voltage of less than about 1000 eV is applied to a tip of the Fin that is welded to the nanomanipulator probe tip. The tip of the Fin may then be sharpened by the focused ion beam.
US09201111B2 Semiconductor device with test mode circuit
A semiconductor device includes a plurality of test entry selection units configured to selectively activate a plurality of test entry signals in response to a test entry code, and a plurality of test operation blocks, corresponding to the respective test entry signals, each configured to be reset in response to activation of the corresponding test entry signal to perform a set test operation corresponding to a test selection code.
US09201109B2 Device and method for determining at least one value associated with the electromagnetic radiation of an object being tested
The invention relates to a device (10) for determining at least one characteristic of the electromagnetic radiation of an object being tested, and to a probe network (100), characterized in that it comprises a means (200) for sliding said probe network (100) on itself with a relative offset between the probe network (100) and the object being tested, that is higher than the pitch of the probe network (100) in order to carry out measurements along a plurality of relative positions of the probe network (100) and the object being tested, and to access specific regions of the object being tested; means are provided for positioning, adjusting and aligning the probe network (100) relative to the object being tested in order to move towards/come to/fit onto the object being tested, and means are provided for the mechanical scanning of the probe network around or in front of the object being tested in order to carry out measurements along spherical, cylindrical or planar shapes.
US09201107B2 Cell characterization with Miller capacitance
A method for cell characterization with Miller capacitance includes characterizing input capacitance of an input of a first stage in a cell by considering a first current transition at the input of the first stage up to a first stop time. The first stop time occurs during the first current transition exhibits a substantial tail portion contributed by the later of a first input voltage transition and a first output voltage transition reaching a corresponding steady state voltage. The first input voltage transition is associated with the input of the first stage. The first output voltage transition is associated with an output of the first stage coupled to the input through a capacitor.
US09201100B2 Voltage detecting apparatus and line voltage detecting apparatus
A voltage detecting apparatus detects a detected AC voltage generated in a detected object, and includes a detection electrode that is disposed facing the detected object, a detection unit that operates on a floating power supply generated with a voltage of a reference voltage unit as a reference and outputs a detection signal, and a standard signal outputting unit that outputs a standard signal to the reference voltage unit. The voltage detecting apparatus also includes an insulating unit that inputs the detection signal and outputs an insulated detection signal, a feedback control unit that amplifies the insulated detection signal, and a signal extracting unit that amplifies the insulated detection and outputs a signal component as an output signal.
US09201099B2 Compact shunt for current measurement
Conductive strips are stacked, insulated, folded, and formed into geometric shapes to provide a low resistance, low inductance, shunt, wherein the geometric shape readily enables cooling to reduce changes in resistance due to self-heating effects. One such geometric shape is attained by winding the conductive strips into a spiral. Another geometric shape is a shape resembling a wave. Both geometric shapes allow cooling by directing airflow from a fan across their surface portions. A variable-speed cooling-fan is controlled in response to measured temperature of the shunt, or in response to a measurement of the current through the shunt. Differential cooling may be employed by means of changing the amount of airflow across various portions of the shunt in response to measured temperature of the shunt.
US09201098B2 High frequency probe card
A high frequency probe card includes at least one substrate having at least one first opening, an interposing plate disposed on the at least one substrate and having at least one second opening corresponding to the at least one first opening, a circuit board disposed on the interposing plate and having a third opening corresponding to the at least one first and second openings, and at least one probe module including at least one ground probe and at least one high frequency signal probe passing through the corresponding substrate, the interposing plate and the third opening and being electrically connected with the circuit board. Each high frequency signal probe includes a signal probe and a first conductor corresponding to the signal probe and being electrically connected with the ground probe. An insulation layer is disposed between the first conductor and the signal probe.
US09201091B2 Accelerometer control systems
An accelerometer open loop control system comprising a variable capacitance accelerometer having a proof mass movable between fixed capacitor plates, drive signals applied to the capacitor plates, a charge amplifier amplifying an accelerometer output signal representing applied acceleration, and an autoranging facility for monitoring the output signal, and for adjusting the drive signals in dependence on the output signal in order to restrict the amplitude of the accelerometer output signal, thus maintaining sensitivity of the accelerometer while permitting response to a wide range of g values. Corrections are applied by means of look up tables to compensate for inaccuracies arising from movement of the proof mass and temperature variations.
US09201085B2 Automatic analyzing device
A reagent loading mechanism includes a reagent loading unit and a reagent holding unit serving as a rotating mechanism. A reagent cover opening mechanism and a reagent transferring mechanism are disposed on the circumference of the reagent holding unit. A position at which the reagents can be continuously loaded from the reagent loading unit can be selected from accommodating positions in the reagent holding unit by setting the number (X) of held reagents and an offset number (Y) of the opening mechanism and the transferring mechanism to satisfy a relationship of X=nY+1 (n is arbitrary). In addition, the opening operation and the transferring operation are performed during the same period so that unnecessary operations of the mechanisms can be suppressed by controlling the sequence such that opening of the reagent covers and transferring of the reagents can be continuously performed.
US09201084B2 System and method for robotic storage of microplates
A robotic microplate storage system includes a freezer room having freezing units and a first robot for moving and removing microplates into and out of the freezing unit. The first robot can also transfer microplates to a processing station, where the microplates are stored in a microplate recipient within the freezing unit. The storage system may also include at least one processing room which is thermally separated from the freezer room. Each processing room may include a processing station having a tube transfer module and a second robot for moving the microplates between the microplate recipients and the tube transfer module. The first robot may be designed such that it is only capable of removing a microplate recipient from and moving it into a freezing unit as well as transferring it from a freezing unit to a processing station or vice versa.
US09201083B2 Sample analyzer and reagent management method
A sample analyzer for performing analysis regarding a predetermined measurement item by using a combination of at least a first reagent and a second reagent, the sample analyzer comprising: a reagent container holder configured to hold a first reagent container which contains the first reagent and which includes a first storage medium, and a second reagent container which contains the second reagent and which includes a second storage medium; a writer configured to write information into the first storage medium and the second storage medium; and a controller configured to control the writer to write, into the first storage medium of the first reagent container, identification information for identifying the second reagent container which is paired with the first reagent container is disclosed. A reagent management method is also disclosed.
US09201081B2 PC-O 44:6—a biomarker for visceral adiposity
The present invention generally relates to the field of biomarkers. In particular, the present invention relates to biomarkers such as PC-O 44:6 that can be used, for example for detecting and/or quantifying visceral adiposity and/or changes in visceral adiposity. This biomarker may also be used to diagnosing the effect of a change in lifestyle on visceral adiposity in a subject.
US09201077B2 Direct enzyme immunoassay for measurement of serum progesterone levels
Compositions, methods and kits for determining progesterone levels in mares are disclosed.
US09201060B2 Particle capture devices and methods of use thereof
The present invention provides a device and methods of use thereof in microscale particle capturing and particle pairing. This invention provides particle patterning device, which mechanically traps individual particles within first chambers of capture units, transfer the particles to second chambers of opposing capture units, and traps a second type of particle in the same second chamber. The device and methods allow for high yield assaying of trapped cells, high yield fusion of trapped, paired cells, for controlled binding of particles to cells and for specific chemical reactions between particle interfaces and particle contents. The device and method provide means of identification of the particle population and a facile route to particle collection.
US09201058B2 Apparatus and method for sensing a time varying ionic current in an electrolytic system
An apparatus and method for sensing time varying ionic current in an electrolytic system having a first fluid chamber and a second fluid chamber separated by a barrier structure is provided, wherein the barrier structure includes thick walls and a substrate having an orifice therein, with the first and second fluid chambers being in communication via the orifice. A potential is applied between electrodes in respective first and second fluid chambers, thus driving an electrical current between them and through the orifice. Total capacitance of the system is less than 10 pF. Analytes are added to one of the first and second fluid chambers and time varying ionic current that passes across the orifice is measured. An amplifier proximal to the barrier structure and electrodes amplifies the ionic current signal.
US09201056B2 Apparatus and process for measuring properties
The present invention relates to an apparatus and process for measuring a property of a material such as the moisture content of cotton fiber. An embodiment is specifically adapted for determining an absolute value of the moisture content of the cotton fiber while being conveyed through ducts such as the ducts of the ginning machine. The embodiment combines large area capacitor plates with light detectors.
US09201053B2 Method for measuring the properties of petroleum fuels by distillation
The method for measuring the properties of petroleum fuels by distillation relates to a measuring method for predicting the property values of complex hydrocarbon fuels, such as the property values of gasoline, by distillation. Compensation of boiling point distribution measurements used for the prediction of physical properties of hydrocarbons is further performed.
US09201052B2 Analysis apparatus and method
A method of performing dissolution analysis on a tablet, the method comprising: irradiating a tablet with radiation having at least one frequency in the range from 40 GHz to 100 THz; detecting radiation which has been transmitted through or reflected by the tablet; determining a parameter from the detected radiation indicative of the density of a coating layer of the tablet; and determining information about the dissolution characteristics of the tablet from said parameter.
US09201051B2 Method and device for detecting smoke
The smoke detector includes: a chamber (1) provided with apertures (3) allowing the smoke to enter a detection area (D), a light source (S) configured to emit towards the detection area (D), and a light receiver (R) configured so as to receive the light coming from the detection area (D). A concentration element (6, 7) is provided so as to create a non-uniform electric field in the detection area (D), that, in the presence of smoke, can polarize smoke particles entering the detection area (D). The non-uniform electric field has a spatial gradient configured to exert a dielectrophoretic force on the smoke particles so as to drive the polarized smoke particles into a concentration zone (C) in the detection area (D) and to aggregate them together to form quasi “big particles”.
US09201050B2 Method for improving a chromatographic detection limit for an analyte
A method for improving the chromatographic detection limit for an analyte including a) producing a chromatogram with a peak of the analyte, b) calculating a regression straight line for a baseline from measured values of a section without a peak in the chromatogram, c) calculating a regression function from measured values of the peak of the analyte, d) subtracting the regression function from the chromatogram, e) calculating a regression polynomial for the baseline from the values of the chromatogram which have been changed in step d), f) calculating a further regression function from the measured values of the peak in the produced chromatogram, g) calculating a peak area between the regression polynomial and the further regression function, h) repetition of step d) with the further regression function instead of the regression function and of steps e), f) and g), until the calculated peak area changes by less than a predetermined amount.
US09201045B2 Internal and external universal EMAT inspection devices and related methods
Systems, devices, and methods of inspecting a body of a tubular, are provided. An exemplary electro-magnetic acoustic transducers (EMAT) tubular inspection system for inspecting a body of a tubular includes an EMAT in-line tubular inspection device. The device can include a spine having a longitudinal support body and radially projecting rails, and multiple telescoping sections each connected to the radially projecting rails. The telescoping sections can include a magnetic back panel, one or more wheels positioned to engage an inner surface of a body of a tubular during inspection, and signal propagating and receiving modules carried by the magnetic back panel. Each module can include a magnet and different types of EMAT inspection transducer coil arrangements connected to the magnet. The different types of EMAT inspection transducer coil arrangements provide for the generation of NBSH, SW, and SV waves.
US09201042B2 Architectural layout for dilution with reduced wastage in digital microfluidic based lab-on-a-chip
Systems and methods are provided for producing fluids with desired concentration factors. According to one embodiment, an arrangement of digital microfluidic (DMF) based electrode platforms are provided. The arrangement may be configured to carry out a sequence of mix steps that may demand storage of resultant fluid mixtures produced in intermediate mix steps. Such sequences of mix steps may be desirable as a result of the decreased demand for initial fluid samples, and reduced wastage.
US09201040B2 Gas sensor
A gas sensor including coating layers (64) and (69) of fluorine or a fluorine compound formed on the surface of a separator (60), including a front separator (61) and a rear separator (66), disposed inside a sheath (30). The coating layers (64) and (69) have water impermeability and water repellency. Even in the case where moisture contained in the atmosphere within a sheath (30) forms dew on the surface of the separator (60), the coating layers (64) and (69) prevent soaking of moisture into the separator (60), to thereby secure the insulation property of the separator (60). Also, the coating layers (64) and (69) having water repellency prevent a water droplet from spreading on the surface of the separator (60) with resultant formation of a film of water, to thereby prevent flow of leakage current via a film of water.
US09201035B2 Gas detecting system, device and method
A gas detecting system, device and method use a variable pulse voltage waveform to increase the temperature of a detecting unit of the gas detecting system so it reacts with gas molecules from a particular space, and outputs a sensing signal. A processing unit of the gas detecting system then performs calculations on the sensing signal, such that an analysis unit may determine the presence of a target gas in the particular space, and further the composition and concentration of the target gas within the particular space, thus providing a detection that is accurate, rapid and convenient.
US09201032B2 Gas sensor
A gas sensor for detecting combustible gases is provided with a catalytic sensor element. The catalytic sensor element is arranged in a housing (1) surrounding the catalytic sensor element on all sides. The housing has a gas-permeable inlet opening. The gas sensor has electric lines, which are in connection with the sensor element and have terminals located outside of the housing (1). The housing has a gas-permeable inlet opening (2) and a gas-permeable outlet opening (3) and a flow channel (4) connecting the gas-permeable inlet opening (2) and the gas-permeable outlet opening (3). The sensor element is arranged in the flow channel.
US09201031B2 Cloud ice detector
A system for detecting the presence of ice crystals in a cloud comprising two thin walled semicylinder-shaped sensors, one having a concave inner surface and oriented longitudinally in a leading edge of an airfoil and the other having a convex outer surface being oriented longitudinally in the leading edge of the airfoil so that cloud water flows towards and into contact with the convex outer surface; a temperature controlling arrangement for heating the two sensors and maintaining them at a substantially constant temperature; and a comparison arrangement for finding a difference between (i) a power to maintain the temperature of the first sensor at its substantially constant temperature (ii) a power to maintain the temperature of the second sensor at its substantially constant temperature; and comparing the difference of the powers to a threshold value for evidencing the presence or predetermined amount of ice in the cloud water.
US09201028B2 Depth determination in X-ray backscatter system using frequency modulated X-ray beam
An X-ray backscatter imaging system uses frequency modulated X-rays to determine depth of features within a target. An X-ray source generates X-ray radiation modulated by a frequency-modulated bias current. The X-ray radiation impinges upon and is backscattered from multiple depths within the target. A scintillating material receives the backscattered X-rays and generates corresponding photons. A photodetector, having gain modulated by the frequency modulation signal from the local oscillator, receives the photons from the scintillating material and generates an analog output signal containing phase delay information indicative of the distance travelled by the X-rays backscattered from multiple depths within the target. The analog output signal is sampled by an analog-to-digital converter to create a digital output signal. A computer processor performs a discrete Fourier transform on the digital output signal to provide target depth information based on the phase delay information.
US09201026B2 Method and system for estimating properties of porous media such as fine pore or tight rocks
A method for estimating properties of porous media, such as fine pore or tight rocks, is provided. The method comprises digital image scanning of sequential sub-samples of porous media at progressively higher resolution to systematically identify sub-sections of interest within the original sample and then estimate properties of the porous media. The resulting properties of the porous media then can be optionally upscaled to further estimate the properties of larger volumes of the porous media such as rock facies or subterranean reservoirs. A system operable for conducting the method also is provided.
US09201025B2 Absolute nuclear material assay using count distribution (LAMBDA) space
A method of absolute nuclear material assay of an unknown source comprising counting neutrons from the unknown source and providing an absolute nuclear material assay utilizing a model to optimally compare to the measured count distributions. In one embodiment, the step of providing an absolute nuclear material assay comprises utilizing a random sampling of analytically computed fission chain distributions to generate a continuous time-evolving sequence of event-counts by spreading the fission chain distribution in time.
US09201024B2 X-ray imaging apparatus and X-ray imaging method
An X-ray imaging apparatus includes an image combining unit configured to sequentially combine divided and transmitted images, a mode selection unit configured to select one of a speed priority mode and a resolution priority mode, and a control unit configured to, if image enlargement is instructed before all the images are received, perform control to change a combining method used for the image combining unit depending on the mode selected by the mode selection unit.
US09201020B2 Specimen viewing device
A specimen viewing device includes an enclosure, a specimen mounting system arranged on the enclosure for receiving the specimen and holding the specimen relative to the enclosure, and a background color control system arranged on the enclosure and configured for controlling a background color of the enclosure. A method of viewing a specimen is also provided.
US09201019B2 Article edge inspection
Provided herein is an apparatus, including a photon emitting means for emitting photons onto surface edges of an article, a photon detecting means for detecting photons scattered from particles on the surface edges of the article, and a mapping means for mapping a particle or a defect of the surface of the article.
US09201014B2 Development of photostable near-IR cyanine dyes for in vivo imaging
A compound of structural formula (I): The values and alternative values are as defined herein. The invention also includes biosensors comprising nanoparticles functionalized with a compound of structural formula (I). Also described is a method for labeling a biomolecule using a compound of structural formula (I) and a method of detecting a target biomolecule using a compound of structural formula (I) or a biosensor of the invention.
US09201013B2 Method for tagging material with surface-enhanced spectroscopy (SES)-active composite nanoparticles
Metal nanoparticles associated with a spectroscopy-active (e.g., Raman-active) analyte and surrounded by an encapsulant are useful as sensitive optical tags detectable by surface-enhanced spectroscopy (e.g., surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy).
US09201010B2 Fluorescent organic nanoparticles
A nanoparticle having a surfactant shell with a hydrophilic outer surface and a hydrophobic inner surface and an organic chromophore and a polymer having aromatic groups within the surfactant shell. A method of making nanoparticles by: emulsifying an aqueous composition of a surfactant and an organic solution of a monomer and an organic chromophore to form micelles of the monomer and the chromophore inside a surfactant shell; and polymerizing the monomer. A method of: reacting a ω-bromoalkyl acid with acryloyl acid lithium salt, and reacting the product with sodium hydride to produce an acryloyloxyalkyl carboxylic acid sodium salt. The compound shown below.
US09201006B2 Imaging apparatus and method
Apparatus for inspecting an article comprising: a controller configured to generate a drive signal having a periodic amplitude variation; a source, the source being operable by the controller to emit a source beam thereby to irradiate an article, the source beam comprising a beam of electromagnetic radiation having a periodic amplitude variation corresponding to that of the drive signal; and a detector, the detector being configured to detect a portion of the source beam that has been transmitted through at least a portion of the article, and to generate a detector signal having an amplitude variation corresponding to the amplitude variation of said portion of the source beam, the controller being further configured to generate a difference value corresponding to a difference between the amplitude of the detector signal and the amplitude of a reference signal.
US09200999B2 Method and system for characterizing color variation of a surface
A system and method of characterizing a color variation of a surface includes a device having a light source and a plurality of sensors positioned at respective viewing angles. An algorithm is stored on and executable by a controller to cause the controller to direct a beam of light at the measurement location with the light source and measure the light leaving the measurement location with the sensors at a plurality of azimuth angles to obtain respective measured color values. The controller is configured to define a color vector function F(θ, φ) to represent the color variation of the surface. The controller is configured to determine the color vector function F(θ, φ) based at least partially on the respective measured color values. The system allows for a representation of color space of a surface at any azimuth and viewing angle.
US09200997B2 Photonic sensing method and device
This invention describes a photonic sensing method and device based on the periodic dielectric structures of photonic forbidden band, in which the sensing process is carried out through the measurement of variation in signal amplitude as it exits the device. The variation in amplitude is due to a variation in the refraction index of the structure, as a consequence of the presence of the substances that are the object of the sensing. Among the advantages provided by the invention, it is worth mentioning its simplicity in the sensing process; its high level of integration, allowing for a design of reduced proportions; and its adaptability to dielectric structures of one, two or three dimensions.
US09200995B2 Method and apparatus for monitoring air filter condition
A method and apparatus are disclosed for monitoring accumulation of dirt on an air filter of a ventilation system including the filter and a fan controlled by a frequency converter. An initial value for an operating parameter is determined. A present operating point is determined based on a characteristic curves, and the mechanical power and rotational speed of the fan. A present value for the operating parameter is determined based on the present operating point, and accumulation of dirt is determined on the air filter based on the initial and present values of the operating parameter.
US09200993B2 Flexible container inspection
An apparatus for testing flexible containers traveling along a production line is disclosed. The apparatus includes a compression assembly in line with the production line. The compression assembly has a flexible section for directly contacting and applying a predetermined compression over a predetermined distance to a plurality of containers as they travel by an inspection station. The apparatus also includes a sensor assembly provided in direct contact with a container while a container is in the inspection station. The sensor assembly is arranged to sense the force applied by the compression assembly to the container. The sensor assembly generates a signal that varies in accordance with the internal pressure of the containers as they pass by the sensor assembly. The apparatus further includes a processing circuit configured to receive the signals from the sensor assembly and to determine the acceptability of the internal pressure of the containers.
US09200987B2 Electrohydrodynamic spraying
A small area electrostatic aerosol collector combines electrostatic collection of aerosol particles and electrohydrodynamic spraying of fluid so that a sample collected electrostatically can have fluid applied thereto. The fluid may assist with disaggregation and/or desalinization of biological material collected onto a sample substrate. A controller associated with the collector may control an electrostatic charge device and a spraying device such that the charge device and spraying device may operate in alternating fashion, or the charge device and spraying device may operate simultaneously. Further, mechanical systems are provided, for the disaggregation of particulate clusters collected onto a sample substrate.
US09200986B1 Fluid sampling probe with vibration dampening
A system for insertion of a probe into a pressurized fluid stream by means of a threaded body formed to engage an elastomeric seal employed to form a fluid barrier thereabout. The present invention contemplates a system which effectively lessens resonance vibration effects and associated damage resulting there from in fluid sampling probes operating in high velocity fluid streams and the like, utilizing mechanical dampening properties associated with its seal(s) and insert(s), forming non-rigid attachment to support the length of the probe in a manner which facilitates resonance absorption and dampening, so as to lessen associated vibration/oscillation in the system. The threaded body forms, in effect, helical strakes to facilitate aerodynamic stabilization and reduce oscillations/vibration, as well as reduce force and deflection caused by high velocity fluid flow passing thereby.
US09200982B2 Phased array turbomachine monitoring system
Various embodiments of the invention include a system having: at least one computing device connected with an array of ultrasonic probes on a gas turbomachine component, the at least one computing device configured to: instruct a first probe in the array of ultrasonic probes to transmit an ultrasonic beam to at least one additional probe in the array of ultrasonic probes; and determine a property of a medium between the first probe and the at least one additional probe based upon a time between transmission of the ultrasonic beam from the first probe and reception of the ultrasonic beam at the at least one additional probe.
US09200981B2 Methods and apparatus for engine analysis using internal electrical signals
A method of analyzing an engine for misfire activity includes receiving an electrical signal associated with a plurality of cycles of the engine, identifying energy spikes in the electrical signal associated with cylinder firings in the engine, generating engine speed estimates based on spacing between the energy spikes, and analyzing anomalies in the engine speed estimates to identify misfire activity in the engine. Also described is a method of analyzing an engine for misfire activity including receiving an electrical signal associated with the engine, detecting AC ripple in the electrical signal, generating engine speed estimates in response to the detected AC ripple, and analyzing anomalies in the engine speed estimates to identify misfire activity in the engine.
US09200970B2 Transparent piezoelectric sheet-with-A-frame, touch panel, and electronic device each having the transparent piezoelectric sheet
A transparent piezoelectric sheet-with-a-frame includes a transparent piezoelectric sheet and a frame covering a peripheral edge portion of the transparent piezoelectric sheet. The transparent piezoelectric sheet includes one transparent piezoelectric film including an organic polymer, one first transparent plate electrode placed on a first main surface of the transparent piezoelectric film and having a first transparent plate electrode portion, and one second transparent plate electrode placed on a second main surface of the transparent piezoelectric film and having a second transparent plate electrode portion. An outline of the second transparent plate electrode portion is positioned inside an outline of the first transparent plate electrode portion as seen in a plan view. The outline of the first transparent plate electrode portion completely coincides with the frame, and the outline of the second transparent plate electrode portion does not at all coincide with the frame as seen in the plan view.
US09200968B2 On-chip temperature sensor using interconnect metal
An accurate, cost-efficient temperature sensor may be integrated into an integrated circuit (IC) using common materials as the IC's interconnect metallization. The temperature sensor may include an impedance element having a length of metal made of the interconnect metal, a current source connected between a first set of contacts at opposite ends of the impedance element, and an analog-to-digital converter connected between a second set of contacts at opposite ends of the impedance element. The temperature sensor may exploits the proportional relationship between the metal's resistance and temperature to measure ambient temperature. Alternatively, such a temperature sensor may be used on disposable chemical sensors where the impedance element is made of a common metal as conductors that connect a sensor reactant to sensor contacts. In either case, because the impedance element is formed of a common metal as other interconnect, it is expected to incur low manufacturing costs.
US09200967B2 Thermoelectric device which provides for varying the effective height of the contacts of a thermocouple, and method for manufacturing the device
The thermoelectric device includes a first leg made from a first material, anchored at the level of its first end to a support, and a second leg made from a second material, anchored at the level of its first end to said support. In addition, an electric connecting element provided with first and second contact areas is respectively in electric contact with the first leg and second leg so as to form a thermocouple. The device includes means for varying the position of the first and contact areas at the level of the first and second legs.
US09200965B2 Temperature control for GaN based materials
A method of in-situ temperature measurement for a wafer treatment reactor such as a chemical vapor deposition reactor desirably includes the steps of heating the reactor until the reactor reaches a wafer treatment temperature and rotating a wafer support element within the reactor about a rotational axis. The method desirably further includes, while the wafer support element is rotating about the rotational axis, obtaining first operating temperature measurements using a first operating pyrometer that receives radiation from a first portion of the wafer support element, and obtaining first wafer temperature measurements using a wafer temperature measurement device that receives radiation from at least one wafer, the wafer temperature measurement device located at a first position.
US09200960B2 Cavity enhanced absorption spectroscopy with a laser modulation side-band frequency locked to the cavity
A cavity enhanced absorption spectrometer (CEAS) and method for controlling the same. The CEAS includes a coherent electro-magnetic radiation source, an electro-magnetic modulator that creates a sideband with an adjustable frequency that is offset from the radiation source frequency by imparting an adjustable frequency modulation to the radiation. The CEAS also includes a RF source that drives the electro-magnetic modulator and a cavity enhanced absorption resonator (CEAR) that receives the sideband. A detector measures the proximity of the frequency of the sideband relative to the resonant frequency of the CEAR and generates a proximity detector signal, which is converted by a controller to a control signal that controls at least one of the RF source and the resonant frequency of the CEAR such that the frequency of the sideband and the resonant frequency of the CEAR are adjusted to maintain a predetermined proximity therebetween.
US09200954B2 Flexible readout and signal processing in a computational sensor array
A computational sensing array includes an array of sensing elements. In each sensing element, a first signal is generated from a transducer. A second signal is produced by a collection unit in response to receiving the first signal. The second signal may be modified, in a conditioning unit. A sensing element preprocessing unit generates a word representing the value of the modified second signal, and may produce an indication of change of the first signal. A current value of the word may be stored in a state holding element local to the sensing element, and a previous value of the word may be retained in a further state holding element local to the sensing element.
US09200952B2 Semiconductor device comprising a photodetector and an analog arithmetic circuit
Provided is a photodetector in which narrowing of a detecting range of light is suppressed. The photodetector includes a photodetector circuit for outputting a first optical data signal and a second optical data signal in which values are determined in accordance with an illuminance of incident light, an analog arithmetic circuit to which the first optical data signal and the second optical data signal are input and in which an arithmetic processing is performed with the use of the first optical data signal and the second optical data signal, and a switching circuit for switching an arithmetic processing in the analog arithmetic circuit between an addition operation and a subtraction operation of the first optical data signal and the second optical data signal.
US09200949B2 Stand-alone photosensor assembly
A stand-alone photosensor assembly has a housing with an axis, a first axial end and a second axial end opposite the first axial end. An adapter may be threadingly coupled to the first axial end of the housing. The adapter may be adapted to mount the housing to a scintillator. A photosensor element may be located inside the housing and adapted to be optically coupled to the scintillator. A sub-housing may be located inside the housing, at least a portion of which is located radially between the housing and the photosensor element. A scintillator assembly may include a scintillator and the photosensor assembly. A machine, such as a radiation detector, may include the scintillator and the photosensor assembly coupled to the scintillator. The machine also may include an output device to generate output in response to the photosensor assembly, and a user interface coupled to the output device.
US09200947B2 Imaging modality using penetrating radiations
Systems and methods which use penetrating radiation to obtain novel type of information about objects of interest. This information may be represented as novel type of image. In the present embodiments, penetrating radiation is directed through the object of interest. The attenuated radiation emerging from the object of interest is detected by at least one detector. A plurality of measurements is collected. At least one statistical parameter describing variations of the measurements may be calculated and used for reconstructing an image representing fluctuations of the attenuation of the penetrating radiation in the object of study. At least one other statistical parameter representing the mean attenuation image, the error of the fluctuation image, or the error of the mean attenuation image may also be calculated and used to reconstruct images of the object of interest.
US09200945B2 Wavelength division sensing RF vibrometer for accurate measurement of complex vibrations
Embodiments of the present invention provide a method for non-contact detection techniques of mechanical vibrations utilizing a radio frequency system incorporating multiple carrier wavelengths. The new detection method measures multiple harmonic pairs at a carrier frequency and improves the detection accuracy and reliability by first inspecting the Bessel function coefficient of each harmonic and then determining the harmonic amplitude. The original mechanical vibration can then be reconstructed. Embodiments can be used to realize sensing of complex non-sinusoidal vibrations using a wavelength division sensing technique and allow non-contact detection through walls, smoke, fog or other low visibility environments with the advantage of longer range detection and easy integration at a low cost.
US09200944B2 Method of objectively determining subjective properties of a binaural sound signal
For determining a subjective property such as loudness of a binaural sound signal left and right sound pressures in the left and right ears of a human being, resulting from the binaural sound signal, are determined. The left and right sound pressures are frequency analyzed to obtain left and right frequency spectra. In each frequency band, the diotic (common) sound pressure in the left and right ears is determined, which would result from a plane wave frontal incidence on the human being, and that would produce the same perceived loudness as the frequency bandwidth limited left and right sound pressures. In each frequency band the inverse frontal head related transfer functions are used to determine the free-field sound pressure that would produce the same perceived loudness as the diotic sound pressure. The loudness is determined as the loudness of the totality of frequency bandwidth limited free field sound pressures, preferably using the international standard ISO 532.
US09200943B2 Acoustic sensing system for a motor vehicle
An acoustic sensing system for a motor vehicle includes a strain gauge mounted at a motor vehicle surface, and a sensing circuit operatively coupled to the strain gauge. The sensing circuit is configured and disposed to detect acoustic responses in a passenger compartment of the motor vehicle through the strain gauge.
US09200941B1 Swiveling check plug for heavy-duty commercial gear system housings
A check plug that incorporates a gravity-induced attached swiveling dipstick component is provided. Such a device facilitates the measurement of fluid levels for gear system housings without the need for traditional high profile, cumbersome methods and tools. The swivel aspect coupled with a suitable connected dipstick measurement component allows the user to open the housing through a screwed-in (or other reliably connected) plug and raise the plug to a proper level to read the fluid level on the dipstick measurement component. Once such a measurement is completed, the plug can be placed back in a secure manner to the target housing and the dipstick will remain swiveled downward towards, at least (and preferably immersed to a certain degree) within the subject measured fluid. The method of performing such a measurement with the inventive check plug is also contemplated herein.
US09200936B2 Digital flowmeter
A control and measurement system for a coriolis flowmeter having a flowtube, a driver adapted to vibrate the flowtube, and a pair of sensors adapted to generate signals indicative of movement of the flowtube when it is being vibrated by the driver, wherein the sensors are positioned relative to one another so the signals from the sensors are indicative of a mass flow rate of fluid through the flowtube. A digital drive signal generator is adapted to generate a variable digital drive signal for controlling operation of the driver. The digital drive signal generator can be adapted to cause the driver to resist motion of the flowtube during a first time period and amplify motion of the flowtube during a second time period. The digital drive signal generator can also be adapted to initiate motion of the flowtube by sending one or more square wave signals to the driver.
US09200931B2 Measuring transducer of vibration-type for a fluid flowing in a flexible hose
The present invention relates to a measuring transducer of the vibration-type for a fluid flowing in a flexible hose. The measuring transducer includes, a hose carrier unit, which has at least sectionally a loop-shaped outer contour, around which a flexible hose can be led. Furthermore, the measuring transducer includes a clamping unit, by which a flexible hose led in use around the loop-shaped outer contour is tightenable against the loop-shaped outer contour, at least one exciter coupled to the hose carrier unit, by which the hose carrier unit is excitable to execute mechanical oscillations, which are accompanied by alternating elastic deformation of the hose carrier unit, and at least one oscillation sensor, by which mechanical oscillations of the hose carrier unit and/or a flexible hose installed in use in the measuring transducer are registerable.
US09200927B2 Position-measuring device
A position-measuring device includes a cylindrical object rotatable about a longitudinal axis and having a circumferential annular reflection measuring graduation. A stationary scanning unit is disposed opposite the cylindrical object and has a light source, a transmission grating and a detector. The scanning unit is configured to optically scan the reflection measuring graduation by beams of light emitted from the light source passing through the transmission grating and then striking the reflection measuring graduation, from where the beams of light are reflected back toward the detector, which is configured to generate rotation-dependent position signals. An optically effective perpendicular distance between the detector and the reflection measuring graduation is selected to be one of greater or less than an optically effective perpendicular distance between the transmission grating and the reflection measuring graduation depending on a radius of the cylindrical object.
US09200926B1 Displacement detecting device
To provide a displacement detecting device capable of achieving an improvement in a measurement range without being restricted by an origin mark or an origin signal. A displacement detecting device 1 includes a scale 2, scale marks, a displacement detecting section 9, a displacement calculation section 4, a movement detecting section 10, a movement amount calculation section 5, a comparison/calculation section 6, and an absolute position calculation section 7. The comparison/calculation section 6 differentiates, when the displacement detecting section 9 or scale 2 moves in a track direction Y1, a displacement amount calculated by the displacement calculation section 4, thereby calculating a second-order differential amount in the track direction Y1. The absolute position calculation section 7 calculates an absolute position in a measurement direction X1 with respect to the scale 2, based on the second-order differential amount calculated by the comparison/calculation section 6, and outputs the absolute position.
US09200925B2 Absolute high resolution segment or revolution counter
An absolute high resolution linear segment or revolution counter as a one-chip-solution with self sustained, economical intermediate solutions, preferably as absolute magnetic multi turn, having a Wiegand element for counting the revolutions or segments, respectively and for the energy supply of the counter and memory as well as processing electronics, whereby the additional sensor for the fine resolution and a μ-controller are part of the overall IC is disclosed.
US09200923B2 Pedometer having automatic step length adjustment, method for operating a pedometer and application of said pedometer
A pedometer for determining the length of a route traveled on foot includes an acceleration sensor for ascertaining a number of steps as well as a pressure sensor for ascertaining a change in geographic elevation, and an evaluation unit being configured to adapt the step length to the measured average elevation change per step.
US09200920B2 Mobile terminal and controlling method thereof
A mobile terminal includes an output unit outputting information and a controller. The mobile terminal receives information about a current location of the mobile terminal; generates a keyword list including at least a first keyword item associated with at least a first place or a first time; determines whether a distance between the first place and the current location is within a threshold distance or whether a time gap between the first time and present time is within a threshold time gap; outputs alerting information when the distance is determined to be within the threshold distance or when the time gap is determined to be within the threshold time gap; and outputs route guidance from the current location to a first guide point in response to user input received after the alerting information is output, the user input confirming designation of the first place as the first guide point.
US09200913B2 User interface for predictive traffic
A navigation device includes a predictive traffic data database to store predictive traffic data at a plurality of times and a map database to store mapping data. A mapping module calculates a route and an estimated time of traversal for a route between a beginning geographic location and an ending geographic location based on the predictive traffic data and the mapping data. A start time modification module monitors for a modification of a start time for the route, with the mapping module re-calculating the estimated time of traversal in response to the modification of the start time for the route.
US09200912B2 Apparatus and method of controlling traveling of automatic guided vehicle
Provided are an apparatus and method of controlling traveling of an automatic guided vehicle. The method includes: receiving information about a start point and a target point from and to which the automatic guided vehicle is to move; obtaining information about a shortest path between the start point and the target point; obtaining sensor information at one or more points on the shortest path; determining a travel direction of the automatic guided vehicle by using current sensor information about the automatic guided vehicle at a current point and the sensor information at the one or more points on the shortest path; controlling the automatic guided vehicle to travel in the determined travel direction; and ending the traveling if the current sensor information about the automatic guided vehicle that has traveled matches sensor information at the target point.
US09200910B2 Ranking of path segments based on incident probability
A route is selected based on the likelihood that an incident will occur while traveling on the route. An apparatus receives request for routing to a destination and identifies alternative routes to the destination. The apparatus selects a time interval based on a current time or another future time selected by a user. A comparison is performed for incident probabilities for the alternative routes and assigned to the time interval. The apparatus selects one of the alternative routes based on the incident probabilities.
US09200907B2 Method of determining frequency of vehicle washes
A method for determining whether a vehicle was washed at a carwash includes recording navigation data for a vehicle. The method further includes identifying whether the vehicle was located at a carwash based on the recorded navigation data, identifying at least one indication that the vehicle was washed while located at the carwash, and determining that the vehicle was washed at the carwash if the vehicle was located at the carwash and at least one indication is identified that the vehicle was washed while located at the carwash.
US09200901B2 Predictive services for devices supporting dynamic direction information
With the addition of directional information in the environment, a variety of service(s) can be provided on top of user identification or interaction with specific object(s) of interest by pointing at the objects. Sometimes either the device user and/or the publishers of content cannot complete a content exchange associated with a point of interest (POI) fast enough for the content to remain relevant. Thus, POIs and content for POIs can be predicted for users based on a variety of factors, such as an analysis of their present path and directional changes, rates of changes, or other factors, such that there is no noticeable, or minimal, latency between information being available with respect to such POIs and a request made via the user's device for such POI information.
US09200899B2 Laser projection system and method
A laser projection system for projecting an image on a workpiece includes a photogrammetry assembly and a laser projector, each communicating with a computer. The photogrammetry assembly includes a first camera for scanning the workpiece, and the laser projector projects a laser image to arbitrary locations. Light is conveyed from the direction of the workpiece to the photogrammetry assembly. The photogrammetry assembly signals the coordinates light conveyed toward the photogrammetry assembly to the computer with the computer being programmable for determining a geometric location of the laser image. The computer establishes a geometric correlation between the photogrammetry assembly, the laser projector, and the workpiece for realigning the laser image to a corrected geometric location relative to the workpiece.
US09200898B2 Estimation of road inclination
A method and a system for estimating a road gradient α by using a sensor fusion: Detect whether at least one dynamic process is affecting the vehicle. Estimate gradient α by means of the sensor fusion by joint weighting of at least two input signals to the sensor fusion. The at least two input signals include a signal based on an accelerometer and an input signal based on at least one force equation. At least one of the input signals and/or at least one weighting parameter for the sensor fusion are determined on the basis of detecting whether the at least one dynamic process is affecting the vehicle.
US09200896B2 Pattern dimension measurement method and charged particle beam microscope used in same
In order to provide a pattern dimension measurement method with a small measured error and excellent reproducibility even though defocus occurs and a charged particle beam microscope used in the same, in a method for applying a charged particle beam to a specimen formed with a pattern to measure a pattern dimension from a signal intensity distribution of signal charged particles from the specimen, edge index positions (X1) and (X2) on the right and left of the maximum point of signal intensity corresponding to a pattern edge are calculated by a threshold method, and a pattern edge position (Xe) is found from a mean value between the positions. Thus, it is possible to reduce the influence of defocus on the pattern edge position (Xe).
US09200888B2 Multi-channel optical coherence tomography
An optical coherence tomography apparatus includes a multi-beam configuration unit comprising at least a first optical path having a first numerical aperture and a second optical path having a second numerical aperture. The multi-beam configuration unit orients the second optical path in a selected orientation in space relative to the first optical path. A scan system illuminates a sample with non-polarized light received from the multi-beam configuration unit and directs light returning from the sample to the first optical path and the second optical path. The multi-beam configuration unit directs light returning from the sample, along the first optical path and the second optical path, to an optical pathway leading to a processing system. The processing system performs optical coherence tomography motion analysis based on interference between light returning from the sample and a first reference signal.
US09200887B2 Compact, low dispersion, and low aberration adaptive optics scanning system
An adaptive optics scanning system using a beam projection module with four or more axes of motion that can project and control the position and angle of a beam of light to or from an adaptive optics element. The adaptive optics scanning system is compact in size, overcoming the challenges of a traditional lens and mirror based pupil relay design. The adaptive optics scanning system has little to no dispersion, chromatic aberration, and off-axis aberration for improved optical performance. The system and methods for calibrating and optimizing the system are described. A modular adaptive optics unit that scans and interfaces an adaptive optics element is described.
US09200886B2 Method and system for optical coherence tomography
A method and a corresponding system for optical coherence tomography acquires a first image in a region of a first plane of an object by optical coherence tomography equipment, and the first image is displayed on a display device. To facilitate a reliable and time-saving examination with straightforward handling, a second plane of the object is selected on the basis of the first image that is displayed on the display device, wherein the second plane of the object is different from the first plane of the object, and a second image is acquired in the region of the selected second plane of the object by the optical coherence tomography equipment.
US09200876B1 Multiple-charge cartridge
A multiple-charge cartridge is disclosed. The cartridge includes an annular casing having an interior void and a primer. A rotatable selector ring is positioned circumferentially about at least a portion of the annular casing. A cam is positioned in the interior void and includes a first charge and a second charge. The cam is coupled to the rotatable selector ring and is configured to rotate about an axis in response to a rotation of the rotatable selector ring. The cam is configured to align the first charge with the primer in response to a rotation of the rotatable selector ring to a first user-selectable position, and to align the second charge with the primer in response to a rotation of the rotatable selector ring to a second user-selectable position.
US09200873B2 Multi-layer solid element mosaic body armor for on-axis and off-axis threats
A flexible mosaic armor system that defeats threats at any attack angle includes top and middle solid elements layers separated by uniform gaps that intersect at apexes. The top elements can have a “hem” shape with raised edges. The middle elements can be flat, or can also have a hem shape. In embodiments, the edges of the top and middle layers are aligned and separated by an offset that is three or four times the gap width. Off-axis spike and needle strikes are thereby trapped between the two solid element layers, without added textile reinforcement. Embodiments include an apex layer of solid elements that overlap the first layer apexes, the apex layer being the second layer or a third layer beneath the 2 upper layers. The apex layer can be sandwiched between two textile backer layers that provide a full uninterrupted bonding surface to all of the solid element layers.
US09200872B1 Hard soft ballistic armor
A hard soft ballistic armor has an armor panel with continuous and contiguous hard zones and soft zones providing seamless, gapless fragmentary and ballistic protection to a wearer. The panel comes from a process of pressing UHMWPE panels into hard armor with soft, flexible joints or panels of soft construction into hard panel with a defined shape. The present invention through its processes provides a single or plurality of heated, hard pressed areas and unheated, unpressed areas in the same piece of armor where the soft areas remain flexible. The processes of the present invention apply high and low pressure simultaneously to layers of material resulting in armor panel having a three dimensional shape that fits a portion of the body of a wearer.
US09200871B2 Carrying system comprising a ballistic body armor
A carrying system with a ballistic protective vest is described, and which includes a front part, and a back part, and a means for attaching the carrying system to a person's upper body; a waist belt having a lateral support; a coupling to releasably attach a carrying means to the rear side of the back part, and wherein the lateral support can be attached to the carrying means.
US09200870B1 Virtual environment hunting systems and methods
One virtual environment hunting system includes a platform, a wall surrounding the platform, a projector system configured to apply images to the wall, and at least one processor. The wall is separated from the platform by a floor, defines an opening above the platform, and is configured such that all bullets fired to the wall from a shooter on the platform reflect into the floor. Programming causes the processor to: (a) actuate the projector system to apply images to the wall to represent an environment; (b) determine a trajectory of a fired bullet using data from at least one housing sensor and at least one shooter sensor; (c) determine how the trajectory of the fired bullets interacts with the represented environment; and (d) actuate the projector system to update the images applied to the wall to account for the trajectory of the fired bullets.
US09200867B1 Modular integrated powered handguard and accessory mount system for combat weapons
A modular integrated powered hand guard and accessory mount system for a firearm has at least one electrical bus bar for electrically connecting a power source and a powered accessory each secured to the hand guard body. The hand guard body is releasably securable to a firearm, and has at least one dovetail rail. An electrical bus bar received within the hand guard body extends longitudinally between ends of the hand guard body adjacent to the dovetail rail. The electrical bus bar has electrical sockets that are accessible through openings formed in the hand guard body. An accessory mount is configured to engage the dovetail rail, and has a pivotable L-shaped electrical connector for providing an electrical connection from a socket of the electrical bus bar to a powered accessory. A power supply assembly allows a user to connect a battery to a socket on the electrical bus bar.
US09200866B1 Dual-barrel air gun and bullet duct switching device
A dual-barrel air gun and a bullet duct switching device thereof are provided. The bullet duct switching device comprises a valve core, a locating plate and a locating structure; the valve core is rotationally connected to a gun body and with air channels through the locating plate along the central axis of the valve core; the valve core is at least provided with a first through-hole corresponding to one air channel; and the locating structure is disposed at the gun body and limits the rotation direction of the valve core. Using the dual-barrel air gun and the bullet duct switching device, barrels of different calibers can be configured on demand so different bullets can be used and the air gun shoot through any single barrel or two barrels; moreover, the dual-barrel air gun has the advantage that:barrel switching is more convenient and accurate, and two barrels are difficult to bend.
US09200864B2 Electric toy gun structure
An electric toy gun structure includes a casing having a room therein and a rear end with a through hole communicating with the room; a firing mechanism disposed in the room, the firing mechanism having a piston corresponding to the through hole; a guide pipe coupled at the rear end of the casing and communicating with the through hole; a hit rod movably disposed in the guide pipe, the hit rod having a first end and a second end, the first end passing through the through hole and being located in the room, the second end being coupled with a weight, a first elastic member disposed in the room, one end being against the piston and the other end being against the hit rod; and a second elastic member disposed in the guide pipe, one end being against the casing and the other end being against the weight.
US09200856B2 Bolt assembly with improved rotating locking head
A bolt assembly with improved rotating locking head, comprising a rotating locking head associated with a bolt body and movable with respect to the bolt body with a combined rotary and translational motion; the rotating locking head having at least two working positions: a closed position, wherein the rotating head closes the breech of the firearm, and an open position, wherein the rotating head is at a distance from the breech; the bolt assembly has an auxiliary pusher that biases the rotating head from the open position to the closed position.
US09200845B2 Arc metallurgic furnace slagging door
An arc metallurgic furnace slagging door having an upper panel and a lower panel substantially vertically aligned with the upper panel, the panels being placed in front of a tunnel giving access to a furnace melting pot and in front of the slagging door for closing the tunnel. The upper panel is outwardly inclined with respect to the tunnel, and movable between a closed position and an open position which permits remarks and interventions to be conducted on molten metal. The lower panel is movable independently with respect to the upper panel between closing, cleaning and slagging positions.
US09200844B2 Rotary agitation type heat treatment apparatus
A rotary agitation type heat treatment apparatus includes: a cylindrical member for performing heat treatment on a material to be treated supplied inside the cylindrical member from one end thereof; a rotating unit for rotating the cylindrical member; a heating unit for heating the material supplied inside the cylindrical member; and agitation members arranged in the cylindrical member. Each agitation member has a shaft structure and two or more blades provided on the shaft structure. The cylindrical member and the agitation members are constituted of a ceramic material. The material inside the cylindrical member is heated and the cylindrical member is rotated, so that the material is heat treated while agitated by the agitation members in the cylindrical member, and discharged out from the other end thereof.
US09200841B2 Clothes dryer
A clothes dryer is provided. The clothes dryer may include a main body having a drum rotatably installed therein, a circulation channel formed in the main body, the circulation channel defining a path of air that flows through the drum to dry an object to be dried, and a heat pump system having an evaporator, a compressor, an expansion apparatus, and a condenser, the heat pump system cooling and heating air that flows through the circulation channel. The evaporator may be mounted in the circulation channel, and a ‘U’ trap may be positioned below the evaporator in the circulation channel.
US09200840B2 Clothes dryer and control method thereof
Disclosed herein are a clothes dryer and a control method thereof in which a drying time is adjusted according to wool content during a drying cycle of a wool course. Wool content of woolen textiles is judged by sensing a dryness of the woolen textiles during a drying cycle of a wool course, and a drying time is adjusted according to the wool content, thereby minimizing contraction or deformation of the woolen textiles while satisfying the range of a target dryness set by wool mark standards. Further, only a high-capacity heater is driven during the drying cycle of the wool course, thereby allowing an internal temperature of a rotary drum to keep the optimum temperature without contraction or deformation of the woolen textiles.
US09200832B2 Air-conditioning apparatus
While cooling operation is continued, a compressor is stopped when a detection temperature Tm reaches a control temperature Tc that is a lower temperature than a set temperature Ts only by a bias temperature ΔTb, and rotation of a turbofan is stopped if a human body is not present in a room R, or the rotation of the turbofan is continued and a value of the detection temperature Tm is corrected to a correction detection temperature Ta that is a lower temperature than the detection temperature Tm only by a predetermined temperature correction amount ΔTm. While the correction detection temperature Ta is a temperature that is equal to or lower than the set temperature Ts (the control temperature Tc for prevention of hunting) (Ta=Tm−ΔTm≦Tc), the rotation of the turbofan is continued as long as a person is present in the room R, and thermo ON is resumed if the correction detection temperature Ta exceeds the set temperature Ts (Ta>Ts).
US09200829B2 Low temperature cooling and dehumidification device with reversing airflow defrost for applications where cooling coil inlet air is above freezing
A low temperature cooling and dehumidification system uses a reverse airflow arrangement to defrost a frosted cooling coil while not interrupting operation. Automatic air dampers are used to reverse the airflow at the proper time to initiate defrost of that section of frosted cooling coil. This system is useful for low temperature cooling and dehumidification in situations where the inlet air is above freezing, however exiting air below freezing can be supplied if desired. It is advantageous for operation if the coolant flow and temperature internal to the cooling coil are regulated to create the conditions for frost formation to begin closer to the air leaving side of the active cooling coil.
US09200827B2 Refrigerator with temperature control
An insulated icemaking compartment is provided in the fresh food compartment of a bottom mount refrigerator. The icemaking compartment may be integrally formed with the liner of the fresh food compartment, or alternatively, may be modular for installation anywhere in the fresh food compartment. A removable bin assembly with a front cover normally seals the icemaking compartment to maintain the temperature in the compartment. A cold air duct formed in the rear wall of the refrigerator supplies cold air from the freezer compartment to the icemaking compartment. A return air duct directs a portion of the air from the icemaking compartment back to the freezer compartment. An air vent in the icemaking compartment directs another portion of air into the fresh food compartment. A control system provides for controlling refrigerator functions in a manner that promotes energy efficiency.
US09200822B2 Evaporator
Provided is an evaporator including a flow part having a refrigerant flow therein, separately from a first compartment and a second compartment to improve a refrigerant channel structure, in a double evaporator in which a refrigerant flows in a first column and a second column, respectively, thereby reducing the number of four inlets and outlets that is disposed in the first column and the second column, respectively.
US09200820B2 Heat pump apparatus with ejector cycle
In a heat pump apparatus, switching between high efficiency operation, and high capacity operation, is performed according to the state of the load. A main refrigerant circuit uses an ejector. A first sub-refrigerant circuit connects a portion between a heat exchanger and an ejector to a portion between a gas-liquid separator and a heat exchanger A second sub-refrigerant circuit connects a portion between the heat exchanger and the ejector to an injection pipe of a compressor. When the load is medium, refrigerant is circulated in the main refrigerant circuit to perform an efficient ejector aided operation. When the load is large, a high capacity injection operation is performed by flowing refrigerant to the second sub-refrigerant circuit. When the load is small, a simple bypass operation prevents degradation of efficiency by flowing refrigerant to the first sub-refrigerant circuit.
US09200818B2 Enhanced solar panels, liquid delivery systems and associated processes for solar energy systems
Fluid delivery systems and related structures and processes are provided, such as for use with water, treated water, and/or a cleaning solution, for any of cleaning, cooling or any combination thereof, for one or more solar panels in a power generation environment. Enhanced coatings are provided for the incident surface of solar panels, such as to avoid build up of dirt, scale, or other contaminants, and/or to improve cleaning performance. Reclamation, filtration, and reuse structures are preferably provided for the delivered fluid, and seal structures may preferably be implemented between adjoining panels, to minimize loss of the delivered water or cleaning solution. The fluid delivery system may preferably be linked to an automated control system, such as but not limited to integrated DMPPT modules and related systems.
US09200816B2 Hydrogen jet propulsion system
A propulsion system for watercraft that uses steam generated from low energy reactor to enable long range high power propulsion. The system preferably uses steam generated from a low energy reactor to provide on-demand steam generated without external power.
US09200815B2 Ventilation ducting arrangement
A ventilation ducting arrangement includes a flexible conduit having an inner surface defining a channel carrying a flow of air. First connectors are aligned in a length direction along a length of the inner surface of the conduit. Second connectors are aligned along the length direction. Each of the second connectors has a position along the length direction that is the same as a position of a corresponding first connector along the length direction but that is diametrically opposed to the position of the corresponding first connector relative to a circumference of the inner surface. Each of a plurality of fastening devices interconnects a respective one of the first connectors and a respective one of the second connectors such that a distance between the interconnected first connector and the interconnected second connector is limited by a length of the fastening device.
US09200813B2 Air-conditioning controlling device and method
Distribution data indicating the distribution of the temperatures and airflows in an air-conditioned space are calculated through forward analysis of the state of the air-conditioned space through a distributed system heat flow analysis technique by the heat flow forward analysis processing portion based on spatial condition data and state data comprising boundary condition data and heat emitting object data, and setting data comprising this distribution data that has been obtained and the target data that indicate the target temperatures at the target locations is generated by the setting data generating portion, and new air-conditioning operating quantities are back-calculated from the new blowing speeds and blowing temperatures for the conditioned air at the blowing vents through reverse analysis of the distributions of the temperatures and airflows in the air-conditioned space, and the air-conditioning system is controlled based on the new air-conditioning operating quantities obtained thereby.
US09200807B2 Regulation valve for a gas cooking appliance
Regulation valve for a gas cooking appliance adapted for the supply of first and second different types of fuel gas, such as natural gas or liquefied gas. The regulation valve has a valve body with an inlet conduit and an outlet conduit, and a rotatable regulating organ housed in the valve body. The regulating organ has a plurality of inlet holes connected to the inlet conduit which, by means of the rotation of said regulating organ allow a gas flow to be altered, the inlet holes of the regulating organ corresponding to the first type of fuel gas are in a first axial position and the inlet holes corresponding to the second type of fuel gas are in a second axial position.
US09200801B2 Fuel selection valve assemblies
A valve assembly can include a housing, which can define a first fuel input for receiving a first fuel from a first fuel source and a second fuel input for receiving a second fuel from a second fuel source. The housing can define a first fuel output for directing fuel toward a control valve, and can define a third fuel input for receiving a portion of either the first fuel or the second fuel from the control valve. The housing can define a first egress flow path and a second egress flow path, each for directing fuel to the burner. In certain embodiments, the apparatus includes a valve body configured to selectively permit fluid communication between the first and second inputs and the output and between the third input and the egress flow paths.
US09200800B2 Method and system for steam generation and purification
A method and system for steam generation and purification is presented. The method includes receiving a fuel stream, a water stream, and an oxidant stream in a direct contact steam generation (DCSG) apparatus; and generating a gas mixture stream comprising steam and carbon dioxide (CO2) in the DCSG apparatus. The method further includes receiving at least a portion of the gas mixture stream in a membrane separator, and separating at least a portion of the steam from the gas mixture stream to generate a permeate stream. The method further includes recirculating at least a portion of the permeate stream to the DCSG apparatus; monitoring a CO2 content in the gas mixture stream; and discharging at least a portion of the gas mixture stream at an outlet of the DCSG apparatus as a product stream if the CO2 content is lower than a determined value.
US09200798B2 Lamp structure for a ceiling fan
A lamp structure for a ceiling fan has a connecting part at the top of its lamp base to connect to a ceiling fan. An installing part has at least two slant surfaces facing obliquely downward when the lamp base is connected to the ceiling fan. The slant surfaces are symmetric with respect to the lamp base. Each of the slant surfaces has a light-emitting diode whose light-emitting direction is also obliquely downward as the corresponding slant surface.
US09200794B2 Fan cooled LED light and housing
A light emitting diode (LED) system that includes a LED, a heat sink, a fan housing, a fan, and a cover is disclosed. The heat sink is typically coupled to the LED, and the fan housing is typically coupled to the heat sink opposite the LED. The fan housing is sized to fit within an electrical junction box and includes a fan housing aperture that extends through the fan housing. A cover may be coupled to the fan housing opposite the heat sink. The system may include at least one air intake opening and at least one air exhaust opening. When activated, the fan may external air into the fan housing through the air intake opening and direct the air toward the heat sink and ultimately through the air exhaust opening. In so doing, the temperature of the heat sink and the LED is reduced.
US09200793B2 Heat dissipation device for lamps having diaphragm pump
A heat dissipation device for lamps comprises an AC electromagnet coil, a rotor, a support, a filmcoated sheet and a heat sink, the rotor being assembled together with the support via a rotating shaft, the AC electromagnet coil and the support being assembled together, the filmcoated sheet and the heat sink being connected together to form an airbag, the support being provided thereon with a lifting mechanism that is connected with the filmcoated sheet, the lower surface of the rotor being designed with a lug for intermittently pressing the lifting mechanism during the rotation; and, the lifting mechanism comprises an expansion link, a spring, a spring pressing member and a membrane connector.
US09200792B2 Portable light having a heat dissipater with an integral cooling device
A portable light or device or heat dissipater may comprise a heat sink for having a light source or other heat generating element thermally coupled thereto, and having a plurality of walls extending from a side thereof for defining a cavity and plural passages, a fluid mover in the cavity of the heat sink for selectively causing a fluid to move through the cavity and the plural passages, and a light source or other heat generating element adjacent to and thermally coupled to the heat sink. The heat dissipater may be connected to a housing in various configurations.
US09200789B2 Magnetic pivot connector structure for lamp
A magnetic pivot connector structure is provided. The structure comprises a magnetic socket and a magnetic plug. The magnetic socket includes negative and positive grooves at the center. A magnet is disposed on one side of the positive and negative grooves. The positive and negative grooves are connected electrically to a first member. The magnetic plug comprises positive and negative shafts disposed aside. An iron member is disposed on one side of the positive and negative shafts. The positive and negative shafts are connected electrically to a second member. When the magnetic plug is connected electrically to the magnetic socket. The magnet attracts the iron member, which connects electrically the first and second members. Then the positive shaft is used as the axle center and the negative shaft rotates around the negative groove. Thereby, the first and second members are connected pivotally and rotate with respect to each other.
US09200785B2 LED light having edge mounted LED's
An LED light includes an LED chip having a first terminal and a second terminal, and a layer assembly having first and second metal conduction layers an insulation layer sandwiched between them. An edge of the layer assembly includes a first mounting surface formed on the first conduction layer, and a second mounting surface formed on the second conduction layer. The insulation layer is located between the first mounting surface and the second mounting surface, with the first and second terminals connected to the first and second mounting surfaces, respectively.
US09200783B2 Projector encasement
A water proof encasement for an electronic device, such as an electronic laser is used for DJ lighting, holiday lighting, video equipment, and the like. The water proof encasement of the present invention allows a user to install a laser to place outside in the elements to shine on, for example, the outside of a house for holiday lighting.
US09200782B1 Multi-directional lighting with single orientation light source
The present disclosure provides a multi-directional light fixture having a single orientation light source. The multi-directional light fixture includes a light source orientated towards a semi-reflective lens. The semi-reflective lens allows a portion of the light it receives from the light source to be reflected upwards, providing uplight from the light fixture. The lens also allows a portion of the light it receives from the light source to be transmitted therethrough, providing downlight from the light fixture. Thus, the light fixture provides both uplight and downlight while the light source is oriented downwards.
US09200776B2 Illumination device having light collector with extended center lens
An illumination device includes a light source, and a light collector having a central lens part and a peripheral lens part surrounding at least a part of the central lens part. The central lens part is aligned along an optical axis of the light source and includes a central entrance surface, a central exit surface, and an extension part positioned between the central entry surface and the central exit surface. The light collector also has a peripheral lens part surrounding at least a part of the central lens part, the peripheral lens including a peripheral entrance surface, a peripheral reflection surface and a peripheral exit surface. The extension part protrudes from the peripheral exit surface and elevates the central exit surface a distance above the peripheral exit surface.
US09200775B2 Light assembly
Light assembly (10) having reflector (16), light source (18), an outer light cover (12), and a curved transflective surface (15). Embodiments of light assemblies described herein are useful, for example, as signs, backlights, displays, task lighting, luminaire, and vehicle (e.g., cars, trucks, airplanes, etc.) components. Vehicle comprising light assemblies include those where the light assembly is a vehicle tail light assembly.
US09200773B2 Inclination sensor device and vehicle lamp system using the same
There is provided an inclination sensor device. The inclination sensor device includes: a substrate which mounts an inclination sensor configured to calculate an inclination angle of a vehicle; a case which accommodates the substrate; a first positioning mechanism which positions the substrate relative to the case in a first direction that is substantially parallel to a first main surface of the substrate; and a second positioning mechanism which positions the substrate relative to the case in a second direction that is substantially perpendicular to the first main surface of the substrate.
US09200771B2 Door handle night-light
A night-light comprising an elastic cover for mounting on a door handle and circuitry for activation and deactivation of a light source.
US09200768B2 Light source unit and projector
A light source unit includes an excitation light source, a plurality of light sources at least one of which emits a light ray in a wavelength band different from that of the excitation light source, a plurality of collimator lenses which make light rays from the light sources into parallel ones, a luminous light emitting device which receives the light ray from the excitation light source to emit a luminous light ray, a microlens array which diffuses the light rays from the light sources to a predetermined range and distributes the luminance thereof uniformly within the predetermined range and a collective lens which collects the light rays from the light sources which are emitted from the microlens array, and the light sources are disposed so that the light rays from the plurality of light sources intersect the light ray from the excitation light source at right angles.
US09200767B2 Adjustable solar charged lamp
An adjustable solar-charged lamp configured to collect and store energy from the sun and to illuminate the lamp with the stored energy, the lamp including a housing, a lens engaged with the housing; a solar collector attached to the housing; a battery and a light emitting device disposed within an interior of the housing and in communication with the solar collector; and a hanger assembly pivotally attached to the housing, wherein the solar collector is repositionable to the hanger assembly to provide maximum exposure to a light source, such as the sun.
US09200761B2 Lighting device for indirect illumination
The lighting device including a reflector; a heat radiating body having a wall disposed around the reflective part of the reflector; a light emitter including a substrate disposed on a bottom surface of the wall of the heat radiating body and a plurality of light emitting devices disposed on the substrate; and a cover including a reflective surface disposed under the bottom surface and reflecting a first light from the light emitting devices to the reflective part of the reflector, and having an opening emitting a second light from the reflective part of the reflector to outside.
US09200760B2 Lighting and/or indicating device for a vehicle comprising a lens and sources
An optical module, in particular for a lighting and/or indicating device for a vehicle, comprises a lens, at least two light sources, in particular two LEDs, arranged facing the same face of the lens, and means for controlling the lighting-up of at least one of the sources independently of the other.
US09200759B2 Lamp having indirect light emission
A lamp has a plurality of LEDs which are arranged behind one another in the lamp's longitudinal direction and in LED spacing by means of an LED carrier. Each LED emits light in a certain solid angle area around a beam center direction. The solid angle area is directed towards a lamp reflector for indirect light emission of the lamp. The number of LEDs and/or the LED spacing is selected in such a way that the solid angle areas of all LEDs after reflection at the light reflector overlap at least partially at an illumination surface distance from an underside of the lamp of at least 0.2 to 2.5 times the distance between the LEDs that are spaced the farthest apart from each other.
US09200758B2 LED lighting apparatus formed by a printable composition of a liquid or gel suspension of diodes and methods of using same
An exemplary printable composition of a liquid or gel suspension of diodes comprises a plurality of diodes, a first solvent and/or a viscosity modifier. An exemplary apparatus comprises: a plurality of diodes; at least a trace amount of a first solvent; and a polymeric or resin film at least partially surrounding each diode of the plurality of diodes. Various exemplary diodes have a lateral dimension between about 10 to 50 microns and about 5 to 25 microns in height. Other embodiments may also include a plurality of substantially chemically inert particles having a range of sizes between about 10 to about 50 microns.
US09200752B2 Valve element for a condensate trap
There is provided a valve element for a condensate trap comprising an expansion chamber in the form of a metallic bellows having a variable axial length and having first and second ends sealed with first and second end caps respectively. A valve closure member is provided on the second end cap and is arranged to cooperate with a valve seat. A first guide member is coupled to the first end cap and axially extends into the bellows and a second guide member is coupled to the second end cap, axially extends into the bellows and cooperates with the first guide member. This allows relative axial movement between the first and second end caps but restricts relative radial movement between the first and second end caps. This helps to ensure that the valve closure member properly seats on the valve seal.
US09200749B2 Ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus with height adjusting device of control panel
An ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus including a body, a control panel installed on the top of the body, and a height adjusting device to adjust a height of the control panel. The height adjusting device includes an installation bracket for installation of constituent elements of the height adjusting device, a drive motor to generate rotational power, and at least one arm having one end rotatably coupled to the installation bracket and another end rotatably coupled to the control panel. A clutch unit is placed operationally between the drive motor and the arm to selectively cutoff power transmission between the drive motor and the arm. Thus, the height of the control panel is manually adjustable after the clutch unit cuts off power transmission between the drive motor and the arm.
US09200745B2 Leveling feet for household appliances
Leveling feet have embedded castors (3) that allow the leveling of a household appliance with a plastic thread. The castors are positioned relative to the floor to allow for movement of the household appliance upon the castors. The leveling feet have a base, that is preferably metallic, and that is connected to an internal ring (6), which contains threads on an external surface thereof. An external ring is coupled to the internal ring and has internal threads for mating with the external threads of the internal ring. The external ring moves vertically on the threads of the internal ring to change the height of the appliance.
US09200742B2 Lateral pipe-lining method
A lateral pipe-lining method for lining a lateral pipe that intersects a main pipe. A lateral pipe-lining material has a tubular resin-absorbing material impregnated with a curable resin and has a flange formed at one end thereof. The flange is disposed on an expandable flange-pressing implement. The expandable flange-pressing implement is expanded using a heat medium that is supplied by a first fluid source and that heats the flange of the lateral pipe-lining material to bring the flange into contact with a periphery of a lateral pipe opening of the main pipe. The lateral pipe-lining material is inserted into the lateral pipe using a fluid from a second fluid source different from the first fluid source, and the curable resin impregnated in the tubular resin-absorbing material is cured to line the lateral pipe.
US09200740B2 Piping system drain down tool
A piping system drain down tool allows for a controlled draining of any pipe or piping system in a safe, efficient and professional manner. Current methods for draining piping systems is messy, time-consuming and uncontrolled. The piping system drain down tool includes a boring shaft that can turn to penetrate a pipe clamped into the tool. A seal prevents water from leaking and directs draining water out through the tool and through a valve and a hose connector, where a hose can be connected to direct flow of the draining water. The tool can also be used to create a water supply tap at any location within a water system.
US09200739B2 Adjustable attachment for dispensing apparatus
A selectively attachable attachment device for a steam appliance is capable of delivering a mixture of steam and a cleaning additive for cleaning surfaces. The attachment device includes a member that can be coupled to a steam source, and a housing configured to receive the member. The member and the housing include complementary tabs and detent(s) such that an adjustable spacing may be maintained between the steam nozzle and the additive nozzle. The adjustable spacing permits control of the rate at which cleaning additive is added to the steam.
US09200738B2 Fast connector structure for cleaners
A fast connector for cleaners, which comprises: a connector body, two positioning pieces, a bottom plate and an water pipe, wherein the connector body has a water through hole in its center and the bottom portion which is expanded and formed into a recessed portion with two first openings. Two positioning pieces are reversely stacked, each having a through slot in its center, a push button at its outside, and a restored spring placed between the inner side surface of the push button and the second opening of the bottom plate which allows the positioning piece to move laterally and in opposite directions. The bottom plate has a through slot in its center, a trough on both sides of the slot, and two second openings for placing the positioning pieces.
US09200736B1 Hose splice installation assembly
A hose splice installation assembly to join hose ends includes first and second clamp members. Each clamp member includes separable portions each with an inner surface configured to engage a portion of a hose end, and a fastening device configured to hold the portions fixedly on the hose end. A displacement mechanism removably couples the first and second clamp members together and is configured to move the clamp members towards each other.
US09200734B2 Tool for deflecting spray from flange coupling
An apparatus for blocking discharge from a flanged pipe coupling, including a strap configured to surround, and cover a gap between flanges. The apparatus includes a tensioning mechanism with a lever pivotally coupled to the strap, a clamp pin mounted on the opposing end of the strap, and an adjustment pin on a side of the clamp pin opposite the lever. Holes extend through ends of the clamp and adjustment pins. The tensioning mechanism includes a bolt having ends, and a mid-portion looped around the lever, so that portions of the bolt on opposing ends of the mid-portion are generally parallel and project through the holes. A fastener is mounted onto each bolt end on a side of the adjustment pin opposite the clamp pin. When the lever pivots away from the clamp pin, contact between the lever and bolt urges the ends of the strap together, increasing tension therein.
US09200732B2 Flush joint pipe
A pipe has a tubular body with a male end and a female end. The male end has an external surface with a first engagement groove. The female end has an internal surface with a second engagement groove, and an aperture extending from an outer surface of the tubular body to the second engagement groove. The female end receives the male end of another pipe such that the first engagement groove of the male end axially aligns with the second engagement groove of the female end to establish a spline engagement groove having a groove length, LG. A flexible spline is located in the spline engagement groove to lock the pipes together and establish a pipe assembly. The flexible spline has a spline length, LS, and LS≦LG.
US09200730B2 Fatigue resistant coiled tubing
The disclosed manufacture method for a length of tubing can produce a length of fatigue resistant tubing that has relatively high fatigue resistance and relatively low strip-to-strip welding length. The Fatigue resistance is calculated from experimental settings with controlled parameters and/or simulations reproducing similar material properties and loading conditions. A high fatigue resistance means certain product characteristics (e.g., low plasticization, low hydrostatic stress levels and free of imperfections welds) can be retained with an adequate bias weld design at low values after a specific test number of cyclic loading. The relatively low strip-to-strip welding length is an advantage for reducing probabilities of having cracks initiated and/or propagated at weld locations, where imperfections and localized differences of mechanical properties commonly cause failure. Low strip-to-strip welding length can also reduce the costs for welding.
US09200725B2 Opening degree detection device for manual valve
A handle 13 is formed in a hollow shape. A displacement sensor 4 is fixed to an inner surface of the handle 13. The target 5 includes: a target body 22 which is arranged at a position away from a valve stem by a predetermined distance in the handle 13; a detection-use inclined surface 23 which is formed on a surface of the target body 22 which faces the displacement sensor 4 in an opposed manner; and a downwardly projecting portion 25 which projects downward from the target body 22. A lower surface of the downwardly projecting portion 25 of the target 5 is received by a valve body 11b so that the target 5 is rotated together with the handle 13 but is not upwardly and downwardly moved with respect to the valve body 11b.
US09200724B2 Bathtub faucet water switching structure
A bathtub faucet water switching structure includes: a hollow water passage body with a water inlet and a water outlet; a switching lever longitudinally installed at the front of the water passage body and having an upper end protruded from the faucet body and a lower end linked with the center bolt; and a center bolt movably installed to the water outlet and having first and second shaft portions, and a water stop plate installed between the first and second shaft portions. The first shaft portion is corresponsive to the lower end of switching lever, and a spring is sheathed on the second shaft portion, and the center bolt is moved horizontally back and forth in the water passage body by the action of the switching lever and spring to drive the water stop plate and water outlet hole to connect or disconnect a water path.
US09200723B2 System for opening and/or closing an inlet valve and/or an outlet valve of a liquid container
The system for opening and/or closing an inlet valve (10) and/or an outlet valve (30) of a liquid container (24), particularly for water toilets, water tanks or the like, comprises an inlet tube (16) with an inlet valve (10) in the upper portion of the container (24) and an outlet tube (20) with an outlet valve (30) in the bottom portion (25) of the container (24), both valves (10, 30) being provided with a valve body. It is characterized by the use of a bistabile inlet valve (10) having a lag-free opening and closing characteristic without any intermediate opening position of the valve body (14; 38, 46), the closing stroke of the valve body being assisted by the flow of the liquid.
US09200720B2 Variable flow valve
A variable flow valve having an externally threaded valve body, a valve element and an actuator that includes coil and a plunger assembly. The coil can be operated to move the plunger assembly to drive the valve element into engagement with a seat surface on a valve seat in the valve body.
US09200715B2 Passage-switching valve
Provided is a rotary passage-switching valve having a rotor with an extended service life. The passage-switching valve according to the present invention has a stator and a rotor which is rotatable while sliding relative to the stator. The stator has a plurality of ports whose ends are open on a sliding surface on which the rotor is made to rotate and slide. The rotor has a passage groove for connecting two or more of the ports. At an edge of the passage groove, the rotor is in contact with the sliding surface of the stator at a contact angle α greater than 120°.
US09200710B2 Floating seal
A floating seal comprises C, Si, Mn, Ni, Cr, Mo, V, and B with the remainder being made up of Fe and unavoidable impurities. The contents of the C, Si, Mn, Ni, Cr, Mo, V and B are C: 2.2 to 3.9 wt %, Si: 0.5 to 3.5 wt %, Mn: 0.1 to 2.0 wt %, Ni: 0.5 to 4.3 wt %, Cr: 7.5 to 25.0 wt %, Mo: 0 to 8.0 wt % (excluding 0 %), V: 0 to 6.0 wt % (excluding 0%), and B: 0.02 to 0.4 wt %. The content of Cr in the parent phase is 2.00 to 5.41 wt %. The content of graphite is 0.05 to 0.35% of the surface area. The content of carbon boride is 19 to 40% of the surface area.
US09200709B2 Surface positioning for compressible seal arrangement
A mechanical assembly including a pair of members each having a planar surface and a displacing structure can be designed to engage a compressible seal, and thereby reduce or eliminate shear force exerted on the seal, keeping the seal intact during compression. Each displacing structure can have a displacing surface and a latching surface. A compressible seal can be affixed to one of the planar surfaces. Contact between the displacing surfaces during parallel movement of the planar surfaces relative to each other may create a separation between the planar surfaces greater than the compressible seal height. Positioning of the displacing surfaces past each other during parallel movement of the planar surfaces relative to each other may initiate the compression of the compressible seal between the planar surfaces.
US09200708B2 Piston retention apparatus and method
An apparatus and method for coupling a piston to a rod to form a cylinder assembly are provided. The piston has a tapped bore extending therethrough for coupling to a first threaded region of the rod. The rod end extends beyond the piston member and includes a second threaded region for coupling to a tapped bore of a retaining member. The piston member is coupled to the rod member at a low torque, e.g., up to about 1000 Nm. An external thread of each of the threaded segment of the piston bore and the first threaded region of the first portion of the rod member may be formed with a root radius of greater than 0.125 pitch or with MJ class thread. The retaining member may include setscrews offset from one another for frictional engagement with the rod end. The thread pitch between the rod and the piston may be coarser than between the rod and the retaining member. An interface and a seal region between the rod and the piston may be disposed closer to the rod end side of the piston member than the threaded coupling.
US09200705B2 Electro-hydraulic actuation group for an automotive servo-assisted mechanical transmission
In an automotive servo-assisted mechanical transmission, an electro-hydraulic actuation group has an actuation unit, a power unit able to provide hydraulic pressure to the actuation unit and an electronic control unit, the actuation and power units being equipped with respective components that are all mounted on a hydraulic casing of the actuation unit so as to define with one another a single assembly structurally separated from the electronic control unit, at least part of the components being equipped with respective electrical connectors that are arranged in a manner such that they can all be engaged by a same multiple electrical connector device.
US09200704B2 Transmission with commanded gear shift monitoring logic
A vehicle includes an engine, input clutch, transmission, and controller. The transmission includes an input member, output member, and bidirectional speed sensor. The speed sensor measures a magnitude and direction of a rotational speed of the output member. Engagement of the input clutch selectively connects the engine to the input member. The controller has a commanded gear shift monitoring (CGSM) module. The CGSM module executes a method via a processor to cause the controller to detect a requested shift of the transmission to a destination gear, and to receive the measured magnitude and direction from the speed sensor. The controller determines a calibrated maximum output speed for the destination gear using the measured magnitude and direction, and executes a control action with respect to the transmission when the measured magnitude exceeds the calibrated maximum output speed. A transmission assembly includes the transmission and controller.
US09200702B2 Driver aware adaptive shifting
An individual driving value is set as a function of an accelerator pedal position. In turn, a powertrain characteristic is set as a function of the individual driving style. The set powertrain characteristic may be modified on the basis of a feedback value corresponding to learned preferences of a driver. The modified powertrain characteristic is then either automatically implemented for operation of a powertrain or communicated as a choice for implementation. The feedback value is updated per a response to automatic implementation or choice communication.
US09200694B2 Vibration damping device
A partitioning wall is integrally formed to a rubber elastic body, partitioning second main liquid chambers. An upper outer peripheral member and a lower outer peripheral member are positioned in the axial direction by a partitioning wall positioning member disposed in the second main liquid chambers. The partitioning wall is retained to the peripheral inside of a retaining member in an axial direction (S) compressed state.
US09200688B2 Vehicle brake assembly
A vehicle brake assembly including a brake caliper defining a caliper housing and defining a plane of rotation of a brake disc, the housing having an opening facing the plane of rotation of a brake disc, a cover plate for closing the opening and an actuator assembly at least partially mounted in the housing, wherein the actuator assembly includes at least one piston for moving a friction element into contact with a brake disc, an adjuster mechanism for adjusting the effective length of the at least one piston, the adjuster mechanism including an adjuster shaft, the adjuster shaft being fixed to the cover plate by a spring clip arrangement.
US09200681B2 Clutch and straddle-type vehicle with the same
A friction clutch includes a clutch boss and a pressure member that change in a relative position in a rotation direction. The clutch boss and the pressure member respectively include cam surfaces that come into contact with each other when the relative position of the clutch boss and the pressure member changes. A first damper member configured to damp a collision between the cam surfaces is provided in the friction clutch. Generation of noise due to the collision between the cam surfaces when the relative position of the clutch boss and the pressure member rapidly changes in the rotation direction is significantly reduced or prevented.
US09200680B2 Clutch suitable for vehicles' powered mirrors
A clutch mechanism preferably used in a vehicle door mirror with a high durability and which allows reaching, in a fast and simple way, a preset compression level owing to the existence of two limiting surfaces.
US09200677B2 Shaft coupling structure
In a shaft coupling structure in which a second shaft is inserted into a cylindrical portion provided in a first shaft to be coupled with each other, with a bush being interposed between an inner circumference of the first shaft and an outer circumference of the second shaft, the first shaft and the second shaft are coupled with each other by a combination of a key coupling and a clamp coupling; the first shaft has a keyway with which the key engages and a shaft slit which is formed in the cylindrical portion by cutting off a portion thereof in the axial direction; and a fastener for the clamp coupling is mounted on a portion of an outer circumference of the first shaft in which the shaft slit is formed and the bush has a bush slit which corresponds to the keyway.
US09200674B2 Fluid dynamic bearing device
A fluid dynamic bearing device (21) includes: a shaft member (22); a housing (29) as an outer member which is arranged on a radially outer side of the shaft member (22) and is opened at both ends; a radial bearing gap which is formed on a radially inner side of the housing (29) and faces an outer peripheral surface of the shaft member (22); and a lid member (30) closing an opening on one end side of the housing (29), wherein the lid member (30) is fitted to an outer peripheral surface of the housing (29) with a fastening allowance which does not affect accuracy of a surface defining an outer diameter dimension of the radial bearing gap so that the housing (29) and the lid member (30) are bonded and fixed to each other.
US09200670B2 Sintered bearing
With use of a fine copper-based powder, specifically a copper-based powder that contains particles each having a diameter of 45 μm or less by 80 weight % or more, an air permeability can be significantly reduced. When this copper-based powder is used, a sintered metal can be easily formed to contain copper by 40% or less (contain iron by 60% or more) to enhance abrasion resistance, and to have an oil permeability of 1.00 g/10 min or less to increase an oil film formation rate.
US09200668B2 Composite material roller for high-temperature annealing
A roller for a high temperature annealing line includes a cylindrical shell and an axial support element and including a spindle at at least one of its ends, and first and second keys fastened to the axial support element and each arranged in a respective first or second through opening formed in the shell. The first key is mounted to bear against a first circumferential bearing surface of the first through opening while the second key is mounted against a second circumferential bearing surface of the second through opening opposite to the first circumferential bearing surface of the first through opening in a circumferential travel direction. The first key is mounted to bear against the second longitudinal bearing surface of the first through opening, while the second key is mounted against the first longitudinal bearing surface of the second through opening opposite to the second longitudinal bearing surface.
US09200665B2 Connecting device provided with a guard for covering the end of a threaded stem
A connecting device has a nut and a guard adapted to cover the end of a threaded stem which, in use, protrudes from the nut; the guard forms part of a plate, which is obtained in one piece and has a base which carries the nut.
US09200664B2 Wheel nut and method of manufacturing wheel nut
Disclosed herein is a method of manufacturing a wheel nut. The method includes annealing an aluminum (Al) alloy material and preheating the annealed Al alloy material. The Al alloy material is also forged to form a wheel nut. Furthermore, the method includes performing an anodizing treatment to form a primary coating on the wheel nut and performing a vacuum deposition to form a secondary coating on the wheel nut. In addition, the method includes performing a surface treatment using powder paint to form a tertiary coating on the wheel nut.
US09200662B2 Miniature tack pins
A fastener pin has a head at a topmost end that is the greatest diameter of the fastener. A shoulder extends downward from the head and includes a bottom surface for displacing material of a host object. A broaching section of rectangular lateral cross-section is located immediately below the displacer by cutting a rectangular profile into a round installation hole in the host object. Immediately below the broaching section is a tapered tip at a bottommost end which may be in the shape of a rectangular pyramid rotated radially out of alignment with the remainder of the other fastener features which all have parallel side edges. This individual fastener is one of a series of substantially identical pins attached toe-to-head at severable joints in a continuous string of fasteners.
US09200660B2 Quarter turn fastener
A quarter turn fastener includes a deflectable head and part in assembly legs for securing the fastener in a subassembly with one component positioned between the deflectable head and the part in assembly legs. Cooperating lock arms on the fastener and lock ribs on the component secure the fastener against unintended rotation for loosening. Stop ribs on the component limit the distance the fastener can be rotated. Main body legs are provided for securing a second component with the subassembly. Cooperating structures of the fastener and the components limit the fastener to rotate only in the lock direction from the unlocked position and in the unlock direction from the locked position.
US09200657B2 Sheetrock wall anchor
A sheetrock wall anchor has a hollow body having an axis and a head on one end, and arms which are spaced from one another circumferentially and pivot to extend from one end to the opposite end of the body when inoperational, to extend in opposite direction for insertion of the anchor through a hole in a sheetrock wall, and to extend transversely to the body for abutting against a rear surface of the sheetrock wall, and a bush is placed on the body and push onto it by a threaded bolt with a nut.
US09200656B2 Joint structure for furniture
A furniture includes a first connecting member, a second connecting member and a joint structure. The first connecting member has a distal end portion, a proximate end portion and a securing surface formed on the proximate end portion. The second connecting member has a coupling surface and a connecting slot formed on the coupling surface, wherein the connecting slot has a size which is substantially the same as that of the proximate end portion of the first connecting member. The joint structure is provided on the first connecting member and the second connecting member, in such a manner that when the proximate end portion of the first connecting member is inserted into the connecting slot of the second connecting member for substantially withstanding a load applied on the distal end portion of the first connecting member.
US09200653B2 Slip bracket connector for rigid members
A one-piece rigid connector allows a nominal construction wood member to slip axially while fixed at its distal end, to accommodate the naturally occurring shrinkage of lumber. The connector surrounds the wood member and attaches to a second wood member to secure the members together. The connector may be slightly larger radially than the first member to accommodate natural movement. In one embodiment, the connector is made of a light gauge sheet metal and attaches a vertical baluster to the horizontal lower deck rail of an elevated wood deck guard rail system. The connector secures the baluster horizontally, but allows the baluster to move vertically to accommodate expansion or contraction of the baluster after construction. The distal end of the baluster is secured using conventional wood screw attachment. The connector includes tabs on each side to allow fastening of the connector to the lower deck rail using conventional wood screws.
US09200652B1 Fastening systems and methods for fixing flexible material
The fastening device 10 of FIG. 3 is provided for fastening a flexible material to a structure. The fastening device 10 comprises an elongate fastening member 12 having a male portion 11 and a base portion 13. The base portion 13 provides a plurality of indentations 14 at spaced apart intervals along the length of the fastening member 12. The indentations 16 are adapted for securing the fastening member 12 to the structure with the use of fasteners extending through the indentations 16. The male portion 11 is shaped for receiving an elongate clip-type retaining member 24. The male portion 11 provides a channel 15 on its surface facing away from the base portion 13 for cooperating with a projection 17 on an inner surface of the clip-type retaining member 24. The channel 15 is positioned for alignment with the projection 17 for receiving the flexible material as the projection 17 forces the flexible material into the channel 15. The fastening system allows for easy replacement of damaged or worn shade cloth, and allows for re-use of the existing fastening system for positioning of new shade cloth.
US09200647B2 Pre- and post- compensational valve arrangement
Hydraulic valve arrangements may be assembled to provide pre-compensation or post-compensation using the same chassis body. A first type of main spool is disposed in a main passage and a first type of pressure compensator spool is disposed in a compensator passage to provide pressure pre-compensation. The first type of pressure compensator spool connects to a first pilot location and not to a second pilot location. A second type of main spool is disposed in the main passage and a second type of pressure compensator spool is disposed in the compensator passage to provide pressure post-compensation. The second type of pressure compensator spool connects to the second pilot location and not to the first pilot location. The valve arrangement may be switched from pre-compensation to post-compensation (or vice versa) by switching out the main spool and pressure compensator spool without making any other changes to the chassis body.
US09200645B2 Steering control unit and electro-hydraulic steering load sense control
An aspect of the present disclosure relates to a steering system having first and second steering circuits in fluid communication with a fluid actuator wherein the steering circuits are disposed in parallel to each other. The second steering circuit includes a proportional valve having a load-sense feature in selective fluid communication with a load-sense connection and the first steering circuit. The load-sense feature is open to the first steering circuit when the proportional valve is in a neutral position and closed to the first steering circuit when the proportional valve is moved to a first or second steering position. When the proportional valve is actuated from the neutral position to the first or second steering position the movement of the proportional valve closes the load sense feature from the first steering circuit and operates to deactivate the first steering circuit.
US09200644B2 Implement with reduced hydraulic oil exchange
A folding implement frame having seven sections in a use position and nine sections when folded. The frame design allows a frame having a width of greater than 27 meters to be folded into a transport position having a width of less than eight meters and a height of less than six meters. The hydraulic system transfers weight to the center frame section during folding and unfolding to enhance stability. The hydraulic system uses accumulators to minimize the amount of oil reduction in the tractor reservoir resulting from extension of the hydraulic cylinders of the implement. Implement raise and lower cycle times are minimized by a helper cylinder to lift the frame main section when the entire implement weight is on the main section and allowing a smaller cylinder to lift the frame main section in the use position for shorter cycle times to raise and lower the implement.
US09200643B2 Method and system for cooling a motor-compressor with a closed-loop cooling circuit
A fluid compression system is disclosed having a hermetically-sealed housing with at least a motor and a compressor arranged therein. The motor may drive both the compressor and a blower device coupled to the housing or otherwise arranged within the housing and configured to circulate a cooling gas throughout the housing and thereby cool the motor and accompanying radial bearings. The blower device circulates the cooling gas through a closed-loop circuit which may include a heat exchanger and gas conditioning skid. Carbon ring seals may be used to seal the shaft on both sides of the compressor so as to prevent the migration of liquid and solid contaminants into the closed-loop cooling circuit.
US09200641B2 Axial fan and a method of manufacturing a blower pipe therefor
An axial fan comprising a circular-cylindrical blower pipe configured about a center axis and comprising one or more plates that are bent and subsequently joined at opposing plate rims for forming the circular-cylindrical blower pipe; and wherein the circular-cylindrical blower pipe has two opposing ends; wherein the blower pipe is, at both its ends, bent outwards at right angles to the outside of the blower pipe for forming a mounting flange. The blower pipe comprises a rust-resistant metal plate or a steel plate which is coated with a rust-resistant material at least on the outside and the inside of the blower pipe; and in that the plate rims are joined in a rim-by-rim manner, without overlap, by soldering or welding with a rust-resistant filler material.
US09200640B2 Inlet guide vane for a compressor
A compressor assembly (10) has a fluid inlet positioned to facilitate the passage of a fluid. The compressor assembly includes a compressor housing (60) defining a compressor inlet (35), a compressor rotating element (45) rotatably supported at least partially within the compressor housing, and an inlet guide vane assembly (500) including a housing (505) that defines a flow passage (525), a plurality of vanes (540), and a guide ring (555). Each of the plurality of vanes is rotatably supported by the housing and is coupled to the guide ring such that each of the vanes is rotatable simultaneously between a first position and a second position to control the quantity of fluid that passes through the flow passage to the compressor rotating element.
US09200636B2 Plastic housing of a radial flow compressor
The invention relates to a housing (1) of a radial flow compressor, comprising an intake pipe (4), a compressor duct (7) and an outlet pipe (5), wherein the housing comprises a housing body (basic construction) comprising at least an upper housing member (3) and a lower housing member (2) made of a fiber-reinforced thermoplastic polymer composition, and wherein the members (2, 3) are made, assembled together and fixed to each other in an integrated 2-step injection molding process. The invention also relates to a process for producing a housing for a radial flow compressor, comprising an intake pipe, a compressor duct and an outlet pipe, comprising steps of a) melt processing of a fiber-reinforced thermoplastic polymer composition thereby forming a polymer melt, b) injection molding the polymer melt into a molding die comprising at least two cavities, thereby forming at least two members comprising at least an upper housing member and a lower housing member, c) assembling the at least two members together, thereby forming a housing body defining the intake pipe, the compressor duct and the outlet pipe, and d) fixing the assembled at least two members to each other.
US09200634B2 Apparatus for maintaining the operation of a geothermal production pump
An apparatus for maintaining the operation of a geothermal production pump having one or more impellers and a vertical line shaft for driving the impellers, includes a liquid buffer for isolating a discharge column through which pumped geothermal fluid including non-condensable gases flows from a lubrication column through which flows oil for lubricating one or more bearings of the line shaft, the liquid buffer being interposed between the discharge column and an outlet of the lubrication column to prevent infiltration of the non-condensable gases into the lubrication column. The liquid buffer includes an upper oil receiving section facing the lubrication column outlet and a lower securing element related to the upper oil receiving section. A lowermost bearing is a thrust bearing, and a bowl in which the cup structure and the thrust bearing are housed is in fluid communication with a further bowl in which is housed an uppermost impeller.
US09200632B2 Screw compressor with slide valve including a sealing projection
A screw compressor includes a casing having low and high pressure spaces, a screw rotor inserted in a cylinder part of the casing, and a slide valve disclosed in the cylinder part. The screw rotor has a plurality of helical grooves forming a compression chamber. The slide valve is moveable along an axis of the screw rotor and faces an outer periphery of the screw rotor to form a discharge port to communicating the compression chamber with the high pressure space. Fluid in the low pressure space is sucked into the compression chamber, compressed, and then discharged to the high-pressure space when the screw rotor rotates. The slide valve includes a sealing projection located on a back surface of the slide valve opposite to the screw rotor, and separating the low and high pressure spaces from each other when the sealing projection is in slidable contact with the casing.
US09200628B2 Peristaltic pump with adjusting ring
A peristaltic pump squeezes a hose between squeezing rollers and a counter bearing to move fluid through the hose. To compensate for production tolerances and non-uniformities in hose thickness, and to also keep the mechanical loading of the hose as low as possible during the operation of the pump, the spacing between the squeezing rollers and the active surface of the counter bearing can be varied. The counter bearing has a conical or cone-shaped adjusting surface which is supported against a complementarily shaped support surface on the pump housing. The spacing between the squeezing elements and the active surface of the counter bearing can be adjusted by moving the counter bearing relative to the support surface.
US09200623B2 Method, device and means for driving a reciprocating linear motion double acting pump
A method for controlling a drive unit mechanically connected to a reciprocating linear-motion double-acting pump includes the use of speed-regulating control during the phase in which the piston is moving in just one direction, ascent (109) or descent (102), and the use of torque-regulating control immediately after the reversal (107, 114) of the direction of travel. The method is applicable to a control device and to a drive unit mechanically connected to a reciprocating linear-motion double-acting pump.
US09200621B2 Transmission system for delivery of dynamic demand response in a renewable energy-based electricity grid infrastructure
A power transmission system manages a delivery of a power requirement from multiple renewable energy resource components to an intelligent power distribution network. The transmission system includes components capable of variably and independently generating power from the multiple renewable energy resource components to provide a dynamic demand response to a power requirement to one or more microgrids comprising the intelligent power distribution network so that the power requirement is entirely satisfied from multiple renewable energy resources from a common location. The transmission system enables distributed energy generation from the multiple renewable energy resources that is responsive to various types of grid demand situations, such as customer demand, direct current-specific demand, and security issues, and so that power production is substantially balanced with power consumption.
US09200619B2 Wind turbine yaw or pitch bearing utilizing a threaded bearing surface
A yaw or pitch bearing for a wind turbine includes a slewing ring bearing assembly having an outer race and an inner race, both having an inner surface and an outer surface. The inner surface of the outer race and the outer surface of the inner race have a plurality of threads that engage and define a threaded bearing surface.
US09200617B2 Wind turbine for generating electric energy
A wind turbine configured to generate electric energy and feed electric energy to an electric power grid, the wind turbine having a blade assembly; an electric machine having a stator, and a rotor connected to the blade assembly to generate electric energy; a first switch converter connected to the electric machine to control stator electric quantities (IS; VS); a second switch converter connected to the electric power grid; and a DC link circuit configured to connect the first switch converter to the second switch converter; the wind turbine being characterized by having a control device which, by at least one of the first and second switch converters, controls a direct voltage (VDC) in the DC link circuit on the basis of an operating parameter of the electric machine indicating the stator voltage (VS) of the electric machine, and on the basis of a quantity indicating the line voltage (Vlin) of the electric power grid.
US09200613B2 Semi-submerged devise for absorbing the energy of the waves
Semi-submerged device for the use of the energy of the waves, comprising at least one moving assembly formed by a buoy (1) attached to a rod (2), that moves through a cylinder (4) equipped with a one-way bottom valve (6), and said moving assembly is located inside the space delimited by a fixed supporting structure comprising at least three interconnected hollow vertical tubes (14), one of them equipped with a valve (7) and another with a valve (16), and each with an air chamber (15). One of said tubes (14) is connected to the cylinder (4) through the valve (7), It also comprises a top platform (18) located on the tubes (14) on the surface of the water.
US09200612B2 Direct-connected low-speed small mixed flow type water turbine applied in hydrodynamic energy-saving cooling tower
The invention relates to a direct-connected low-speed small mixed flow type water turbine applied in a hydrodynamic energy-saving cooling tower, which comprises a water inlet scroll case (1), a seat ring (2) provided with single column of guide vanes annularly, a runner (12), a straight tapered water outlet pipe (9) and a side water outlet box (10), wherein the seat ring (2) is mounted on the inner side of the scroll case (1), a water outlet among the guide vanes in the seat ring (2) is communicated with a water inlet formed among curved surface blades (4), the water outlet formed among the curved surface blades (4) is communicated with the water inlet of the straight tapered water outlet pipe (9), the water outlet of the straight tapered water outlet pipe (9) is communicated with the water inlet of the side water outlet box (10), and the direct-connected low-speed small mixed flow type water turbine is characterized in that a bearing seat (6) is mounted on the runner (12), a shaft (7) is mounted in the bearing seat (6), and blades of a cooling fan are directly mounted on the shaft (7); and the value of unit rotational speed n 11 = nD 1 H is 28-42, in the formula, n is the rated rotational speed of the blades of the cooling fan, D1 is the diameter of the water inlet of the runner (12), and H is the inlet water pressure. The invention has the advantages of small size, high efficiency and low noise.
US09200606B2 Electronically controlled fuel injection valve
An electronically controlled fuel injection valve can independently control the time to inject fuel and the amount of fuel to be injected in response to a control signal sent from the operating condition of an engine unlike a traditional mechanical fuel injection valve, and employs a control method for fuel injection that increases the force of lifting up a cutoff needle of an injection controller by delivering high-pressure fuel to a lower pressure chamber via a control needle, thereby rapidly controlling fuel injection. The electronically controlled fuel injection valve prevents a nozzle part from being constantly subjected to high pressure due to the nozzle part being not supplied with fuel when fuel is not injected, prevents a large amount of fuel from leaking into a combustion chamber when a part such as a needle is damaged, and simplifies the structure of a second flow path, thereby facilitating fabrication.
US09200605B2 Apparatus for preventing cavitation damage to a diesel engine fuel injection pump
An apparatus for preventing cavitation damage to a diesel engine fuel injection pump comprises a valve member mounted on a barrel port to shut the barrel port during an early stage of fuel compression performed by the upward movement of a plunger to increase the pressure in the barrel port, a valve housing installed in the deflector or the barrel of a pump housing to support the valve member, and a pressure control valve constituted by a spring interposed between the valve member and the valve housing to elastically support the valve member. The barrel port is shut to increase the pressure therein during the early stage of fuel compression, and when the pressure of fuel in the barrel port exceeds a level higher than an open level, the barrel port opens to discharge fuel.
US09200604B2 Fuel injector having press-fitting structures
A fuel injector for fuel-injection systems of internal combustion engines. The fuel injector includes an electromagnetic actuating element having a solenoid coil, a core and a valve cover as external solenoid circuit component, and a movable valve-closure element, which cooperates with a valve-seat surface assigned to a valve-seat body. The core and a connection pipe are fixedly connected in an inner opening of a thin-walled valve sleeve by being pressed into place, and the valve cover at the outer circumference of the valve sleeve is firmly connected to the valve sleeve by being pressed onto it. The firm press-fitted connection of in each case two of these metallic components of the fuel injector is characterized by the fact that at least one of the partner components has in its press-fitting region a structure with score marks, and/or the particular press-fitting region has an intake rounding in at least one transition to an adjoining component section. To safely contain abrasion particles produced in the press-fitting action, starting from the press-fitting region of a partner component, first a recessed region adjoins, which is followed by a press lip, which radially projects further to the outside on the outer contour of this one component partner.
US09200599B2 Internal combustion engine having dual EGR loops (dedicated EGR loop and low pressure EGR loop) and dual cylinder intake ports
A dual EGR loop exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) system for an internal combustion engine. The engine has both a dedicated EGR loop and a low pressure EGR loop. This means that one or more engine cylinders is operable as a dedicated EGR cylinder, such that all of its exhaust is recirculated via the dedicated EGR loop. The other cylinders are operable as main cylinders having two intake ports, such that each main cylinder may receive a mixture of fresh air and dedicated EGR through one intake port and a mixture of fresh air and low pressure EGR through the other intake port. A control unit controls this dual loop EGR system to either provide EGR only from the dedicated EGR loop or to also provide additional EGR from the low pressure EGR loop.
US09200598B2 Pump assembly is provided, housed inside an LPG fuel tank for motor vehicles, which can be removed without having to first empty the tank
A device for housing a pump in a tank is described. Such a device includes a gastight container where the pump is accommodated, fitted within the tank and accessible from the outside of the tank. The gastight container received LPG from the tank and the pump is fed with the LPG present in the container. Should the LPG pump break, it is sufficient to drain the gastight container that accommodates the pump removing the small amount of LPG present in it, loosening the lid of the gastight container and removing the faulty pump, with no need to drain the entire tank of the LPG contained in it.
US09200594B2 Gas turbine engine having fan blades of adjustable pitch with cyclic setting
A fan portion of a dual flow turbojet engine including a plurality of fan blades, a disk supporting the blades and configured to be rotated relative to a stator portion of the fan, along a longitudinal axis of the fan, and a system for setting the angle of attack associated with each fan blade, the systems configured such that the angle of attack of each blade varies according to a same setting law according to the angular position of the blade relative to the stator portion, along the longitudinal axis, the same setting law being periodic with a period of P=360°/n, where n is an integer at least equal to 1.
US09200592B2 Mechanism for turbine engine start from low spool
A gas turbine engine includes a high spool, a low spool mechanically connected to a fan, a gear system, an actuator, and a starter. The gear system is actuable to engage and disengage the low spool to and from the high spool. The actuator is connected to the gear system for selectively engaging and disengaging the gear system. The starter is connected to the low spool and can drive rotation of the high spool through the low spool when the gear system is engaged.
US09200591B2 Automatic identification of operating parameters for power plants
A method for obtaining operating parameters of a power plant includes data mining a historical operating condition database for the power plant with a partitional clustering algorithm to generate a statistical model, and calculating dynamic operating condition target values from the statistical model taking into account current operating condition data of the power plant. The method further includes performing a real-time energy-loss analysis based on the dynamic operating condition target values and automatically identifying at least one operating parameter of the power plant from the energy-loss analysis. The partitional clustering algorithm can be a k-means clustering algorithm.
US09200590B2 Assembly with composite fastener for attaching components with sealant and method of attaching same
An assembly includes a first component and a second component. A sealant is disposed between the first component and the second component. The second component has a recess on a second surface of the second component opposite the first surface of the second component. A composite fastener has a threaded portion and a head portion. The head portion has a retention clip on a side of the head portion that faces the second surface of the second component when the threaded portion is received in aligned openings of the first component and the second component so that the retention clip is received in the recess when the composite fastener is turned. A method of attaching a first component and a composite component is provided.
US09200588B2 Method for monitoring the signal value of a vacuum sensor
A method for monitoring the signal value of a vacuum sensor of a vacuum system in a vehicle, wherein a vacuum generator and a brake booster are provided in the vacuum system, an upper error threshold (−p_vac_errorthreshold) is calculated as a function of the operating states of the vacuum generator and of the brake booster, and wherein an error is identified when the signal value of the vacuum sensor exceeds the current value of the error threshold.
US09200586B2 Engine system
An engine system includes an engine, an air intake passage to supply air to the engine, a throttle valve provided in the air intake passage to adjust a throttle opening degree that is an opening degree of the air intake passage, a bypass passage to supply air to the engine while bypassing the throttle valve, an on/off valve provided in the bypass passage to open and close the bypass passage, and a control unit that performs ignition lag control of the engine to control an output of the engine when the on/off valve is in an open state.
US09200585B2 Control apparatus for internal combustion engine, method of controlling internal combustion engine, and computer-readable storage medium
A control apparatus for an internal combustion engine includes a cylinder internal pressure sensor, a fuel injection parameter calculator, a driving device, and a sensor output signal processing device. The sensor output signal processing device is configured to set a noise reduction period in accordance with an opening time and an opening start time of a fuel injection valve and is configured to reduce, during the noise reduction period, noise that is included in a cylinder internal pressure sensor output signal and that is caused by opening of the fuel injection valve.
US09200584B2 Method and device for operating an internal combustion engine
Each cylinder bank of the internal combustion engine is assigned in each case one injection event memory (EES), an injection determining process (EEP) and an injection execution process (EAP). In the respective injection determining process (EEP), desired injection events (EE) are determined for the associated cylinder bank. These injection events are stored in succession in the respectively associated injection event memory (EES). In the respective injection execution process (EAP), injection events (EE) are retrieved in succession from the associated injection event memory (EES) and executed in a sequence in which they were stored in the associated injection event memory (EES) by the associated injection determining process (EEP) (FIFO: first in first out). The in each case next injection event (EE) is executed only after the end of an execution of the in each case previously executed injection event (EE).
US09200575B2 Managing engine firing patterns and pattern transitions during skip fire engine operation
Various methods and data structures for managing transition between different firing fractions during skip fire operation of an engine are described. In some embodiments, transitions are constrained to occur when firing sequence segments of a designated length are shared by the first and second firing fractions. In a separate aspect, a data structure that uses current firing fraction phase as a first index and a target firing fraction as a second index may be used to determine a phase of the target firing fraction to enter at a transition. Is some circumstances transitions between a current and target firing fraction may be conducted as a series of steps through intermediate firing fractions.
US09200574B2 Variable valve timing apparatus
A variable valve timing apparatus including: an actuator housing having a space at the inside thereof; an upper plunger mounted inside the upper portion of the actuator housing to move upward and downward; a lower plunger mounted inside the lower portion of the actuator housing to allow the upper plunger to move upward and downward; an oil chamber allows oil to be circulated upwardly and downwardly or blocks the flow of oil through a head formed on the top end periphery of the upper plunger in accordance with the upward and downward movements of the upper plunger; and a communicating passage allows the upper and lower end portions of the oil chamber to communicate with each other in accordance with upward and downward movements of the lower plunger and to adjust the oil flowing thereon to control the speeds of the upward and downward movements of the upper plunger.
US09200568B1 Inlet air filtration system with self-cleaning filter bag
The present application provides a pulse filtration system for use with a compressor of a gas turbine engine. The pulse filtration system may include a pulse filter, a compressed air system in communication with the pulse filter, and a filter bag surrounding the pulse filter in whole or in part.
US09200565B2 Full hoop casing for midframe of industrial gas turbine engine
A can annular industrial gas turbine engine, including: a single-piece rotor shaft spanning a compressor section (82), a combustion section (84), a turbine section (86); and a combustion section casing (10) having a section (28) configured as a full hoop. When the combustion section casing is detached from the engine and moved to a maintenance position to allow access to an interior of the engine, a positioning jig (98) is used to support the compressor section casing (83) and turbine section casing (87).
US09200561B2 Chemical fuel conditioning and activation
Methods, systems, and devices are disclosed for chemically activating a fuel for injection and ignition in a combustion engine. In one aspect, a method to initiate combustion includes transforming an interim fuel substance into constituents including radicals, the interim fuel substance formed by a chemical conversion using a fuel, in which the interim fuel substance has a lower ignition energy than that of the fuel, injecting the constituents into a combustion chamber of an engine, and providing a gaseous fluid including oxidants in the combustion chamber to react with the constituents in a combustion reaction, in which the combustion reaction of the constituents occurs at a reduced energy than that of a combustion reaction of the fuel substance.
US09200559B2 Combustion chamber for large gas engine
Provided is a combustion chamber applied in a gas engine including: a main combustion chamber including, at a central portion of its ceiling, an auxiliary combustion chamber; and a piston. A peripheral portion of a top surface of the piston is a flat surface. A raised portion, which has a curved surface and which is a solid of revolution, is formed at a central portion of the top surface, the raised portion being joined to the flat surface of the peripheral portion via a curved surface. When the piston is positioned at a top dead center, nozzle holes of the auxiliary combustion chamber jet out flame jets to a portion at which the raised portion of the top surface of the piston and the flat surface of the peripheral portion of the top surface of the piston are joined together.
US09200556B2 Turbo recharger
Embodiments as described herein provide a simplified turbo recharger for an efficient, reliable, low-cost system that delivers good performance for improving efficiency of a vehicle using electric power. Embodiments as described herein may be used with electric motor, combustion engine hybrid vehicles to improve the fuel efficiencies of such vehicles. A turbine may be positioned in an exhaust stream of a vehicle that is coupled to a generator to recharge the battery of a vehicle. The turbine may include a wastegate to permit the exhaust stream to enter or bypass the turbine depending on the charge of the battery, the rate of rotation of the turbine, pressure within the turbine, the speed of the engine, or a combination of the above.
US09200555B2 Control device for electrically heated catalyst
A purpose of the present invention is to prevent a PM-caused short circuit between a heating element and a case in an electrically heated catalyst. The electrically heated catalyst is provided in an exhaust gas passage of an internal combustion engine the air-fuel ratio of which is controlled at a ratio near a theoretical air-fuel ratio at an operation time. The electrically heated catalyst includes a heating element that generates heat through electric conduction, a case that stores the heating element therein, and an insulating member sandwiched between the heating element and the case. According to the present invention, the heating element is electrically conducted after the operation of the internal combustion engine is stopped.
US09200552B2 Apparatus for controlling supply power to conductive carrier of catalyst converter
In an apparatus for controlling supply power to a conductive porous carrier of a catalyst converter for cleaning an emission, a moisture determiner determines whether moisture is contained in and/or on the conductive porous carrier. A power controller controls supply power to the conductive porous carrier for energization of the conductive porous carrier such that a value of the supply power to the conductive porous carrier when it is determined that the moisture is contained in and/or on the conductive porous carrier is lower than a value of the supply power to the conductive porous carrier when it is determined that the moisture is not contained in and/or on the conductive porous carrier.
US09200551B2 Exhaust treatment apparatus for engine
An exhaust treatment apparatus for an engine including a combustible gas supplying passage; a heat releasing port opened in an upstream side in the exhaust passage from the oxidation catalyst and in a downstream side in the combustible gas supplying passage, the exhaust passage and the combustible gas supplying passage communicating with each other through the heat releasing port; an ignition apparatus beneath the heat releasing port, the heat of flaming combustion of combustible gas ignited by the ignition apparatus being supplied to the exhaust passage to raise the temperature of exhaust in the exhaust passage; a flame holding plate in a downstream side in the combustible gas supplying passage from the ignition apparatus, an exhaust guiding plate at the top portion of the flame holding plate, the exhaust guiding plate having an upward slope toward a downstream side in the exhaust passage.
US09200549B2 Internal combustion engine and motorcycle equipped with the engine
In an internal combustion engine, upper and lower crankcases include a crank chamber, a clutch chamber in communication with the crank chamber, and a cam chain chamber. The upper crankcase includes a second upper partition wall configured to separate the cam chain chamber and the clutch chamber from each other. The lower crankcase includes a first lower partition wall configured to separate the cam chain chamber and the crank chamber from each other, and a second lower partition wall configured to separate the cam chain chamber and the clutch chamber from each other. An oil passage allowing communication between the cam chain chamber and the crank chamber is provided in the first lower partition wall. First passages allowing communication between the cam chain chamber and the clutch chamber are provided respectively in the bottom surface of the second upper partition wall and in the top surface of the second lower partition wall.
US09200538B2 Inspection hole plug with a ball swivel
A plug for an inspection hole of a gas turbine engine is disclosed. The plug may have a stem including a first shaft, wherein a first seal is located circumferentially about the first shaft. The plug may have a swivel seal including a second seal spaced from a ball by a second shaft, and the swivel seal may be rotatably connected to the stem by the ball. The ball and the second seal may be fixed to the second shaft.
US09200531B2 Fan case rub system, components, and their manufacture
A turbofan engine has a fan having a circumferential array of fan blades. A fan case encircles the fan. There is at least one compressor section, a combustor, and at least one turbine section. The fan case comprises a composite structural member and a metallic member encircled by the composite structural member. The metallic member is mounted to the composite structural member to permit differential thermal expansion proximate the blades.
US09200530B2 Radial position control of case supported structure
A radial position control assembly for a gas turbine engine stage includes a case structure. A supported structure is operatively supported by the case structure. The supported structure includes a hook providing an annular recess. A support ring is received in the recess. The supported structure and the support ring have different coefficients of thermal expansion. A sealing structure is adjacent to the supported structure. The support ring maintains the supported structure relative to the sealing structure at a clearance during thermal transients based upon a circumferential gap between adjacent supported structure and based upon a radial gap between the support ring and the supported structure.
US09200529B2 Method for adjusting the radial gaps which exist between blade airfoil tips or rotor blades and a passage wall
A method for measuring and adjusting gaps between a rotor and a stator of a machine using a sensor is provided. The measuring is conducted when the rotor is operated at a rotational speed below a nominal rotational speed of the machine and without the machine being in operation. The adjusting of the gap is carried out as a function of at least one gap dimension of the gap. The sensor is not resistant to an operating temperature of the machine occurring in a region where the sensor is located. After completion of the measuring the machine is operated with the sensor.
US09200524B2 Steam turbine rotor
There is provided a steam turbine rotor with high reliability and corresponding to increase in length of a high strength steel blade, in which only a low-pressure last stage is highly strengthened. The steam turbine rotor includes a steam turbine low-pressure last stage long blade made of a precipitation hardening type martensitic stainless steel containing, in mass, 0.1% or less of C, 0.1% or less of N, 9.0% to 14.0% inclusive of Cr, 9.0% to 14.0% inclusive of Ni, 0.5% to 2.5% inclusive of Mo, 0.5% or less of Si, 1.0% or less of Mn, 0.25% to 1.75% inclusive of Ti, 0.25% to 1.75% inclusive of Al, and the balance consisting of Fe and inevitable impurities, and a disk having a specific alloy composition is joined to a last stage section of the turbine rotor made of a low-alloy steel.
US09200523B2 Turbine blade tip cooling
A turbine blade includes a blade portion, the blade portion comprising a tip outer wall and a trailing edge, an internal cooling circuit, the internal cooling circuit being configured for directing cooling air within the blade portion, and a tip trailing edge slot positioned adjacent to the tip outer wall and the trailing edge, the tip trailing edge slot being fluidly connected to the internal cooling circuit. The tip outer wall is recessed at the tip trailing edge slot such that the tip outer wall is not provided over the trailing edge slot, thereby allowing cooling air to flow from the cooling circuit, into the trailing edge slot, and radially over the tip outer wall.
US09200519B2 Belly band seal with underlapping ends
A sealing band for use in a turbomachine having a plurality of stages, each stage comprising a rotatable disk and blades carried thereby. At least one pair of adjacent rotatable disks define an annular gap therebetween and have respective opposing sealing band receiving slots aligned with the annular gap. The sealing band includes a plurality of seal strips located in series adjacent to one another, and adjacent seal strips include opposing end faces located in facing relationship adjacent to one another. An underlap portion is affixed adjacent to an end of at least one seal strip and extends past the end face of an adjacent seal strip, along a radially facing side of the adjacent seal strip.
US09200513B2 Method for mounting a ranging arm on a body of a longwall shearer loader
The method for mounting a ranging arm on a body of a longwall shearer loader characterized by the fact that the shearer's ranging arm (7) is pivotally connected through the eyes (9) and at least one pin (3) with the eyes of the articulated joint (6) located from the side wall side in the bottom part of the shearer's body (5) outside of the chain conveyor (11). The axis of the pin or pins (3) is situated below the axis of the motor (12) of the shearer's ranging arm (7). The hydraulic cylinder (4) is pivotally connected with the eyes (8) of the shearer's ranging arm (7) located between the eyes of the articulated joint (6) with a pin (2), the axis of which is situated above the axis of the motor (12) of the shearer's arm (7). The hydraulic cylinder (4) is pivotally connected with the shearer's body (5) with a pin (1), the axis of which is situated below the axis of the motor (12) of the shearer's arm (7) and below the axis of the feed drive shaft (10). The axis of the pin (1) is situated at the same height as the axis of the pin or pins (3) connecting the shearer's arm (7) with the eyes of the articulated join (6). The hydraulic cylinder (4) is located between the axis of the feed drive shaft (10) and the pin of pins (3) connecting the shearer's ranging arm (7) with the eyes of the articulated joint (6).
US09200511B2 Enhanced dynamic well model for reservoir pressure determination
A computer implemented method for determining reservoir pressure in a shut-in well, the method comprising: determining the initial physical characteristics of the well; determining properties of gas bubble throughout the well; calculating a dynamic mass transfer rate for the gas bubble over a period of time; calculating the physical fluid movement along the well: calculating a rate of fluid influx from the reservoir; determining a corrected pressure gradient along at least part, or all, of the profile of the well using the determined dynamic mass transfer rate, fluid movement and rate of fluid influx; and determining the reservoir pressure from a measure, or determination, of the well head pressure and the calculated pressure.
US09200506B2 Apparatus for transporting and upgrading a hydrocarbon resource through a pipeline and related methods
A device for transporting and upgrading a hydrocarbon resource may include a pair of pipeline segments configured to transport the hydrocarbon resource therethrough and a radio frequency (RF) upgrading device. The RF upgrading device may include an RF applicator comprising an inner tubular dielectric coupler between the pair of pipeline segments, and an electrically conductive outer housing surrounding the inner tubular dielectric coupler. The RF upgrading device may also include an RF source coupled to the electrically conductive outer housing and having an operating frequency and power to upgrade the hydrocarbon resource.
US09200503B2 Systems and methods for cleaning a well face during formation testing operations
A method of cleaning a well face during formation testing at a drill site is disclosed. A collection chamber disposed in a formation tester tool may be at least partially filled with cleansing fluid. The formation tester tool may be introduced into a wellbore and the cleansing fluid may be ejected through a probe coupled to the formation tester tool. The collection chamber may then be at least partially filled with a formation fluid sample. A face of the probe may be contacted by a retractable cleaning mechanism coupled to the formation tester tool.
US09200502B2 Well-based fluid communication control assembly
An apparatus includes a base pipe, a screen and a first assembly. The screen at least partially circumscribes the base pipe to create a flow path between a first region that is outside of the screen and a second region that is inside the base pipe. The flow path includes at least one radial port of the base pipe and a third region between the screen and the exterior of the base pipe. The first assembly regulates fluid communication through the flow path. The first assembly includes a second assembly that is disposed in and mounted to the base pipe and a flow control device that is slidably connected to the second assembly. The flow control device is adapted to translate between at least two positions to regulate the fluid communication through the flow path.
US09200501B2 Valve assembly
A valve assembly comprises a conduit having a throughbore and defining a longitudinal axis, a sealing member that is moveable between an open configuration in which the throughbore of the conduit is open, and a sealing configuration in which the sealing member is arranged to substantially obturate the throughbore of the conduit, wherein in the sealing configuration, the sealing member seals the throughbore along a sealing line at least a part of which is angled relative to a direction perpendicular to the axis of the throughbore.
US09200500B2 Use of sensors coated with elastomer for subterranean operations
A method comprising placing a composition comprising a wellbore servicing fluid and a Micro-Electro-Mechanical System (MEMS) sensor in a subterranean formation, whereby the MEMS sensor is coated with an elastomer. The elastomer-coated MEMS sensor is used to detect one or more parameters, including a compression or swelling of the elastomer, an expansion of the elastomer, or a change in density of the composition.
US09200499B2 Dual wiper plug system
A dual wiper plug system having a first wiper including a first body having a first bore therethrough, and at least one wiper fin disposed around the body, a second wiper disposed axially above the first wiper, the second wiper including a second body having a second bore therethrough and a first shoulder formed on the inner surface of the second body, and at least one wiper fin disposed around the body, and a first collet ring coupled to the first wiper and including at least one collet finger extending axially upward, and a collet head disposed on an upper end of the collet finger and configured to engage the first shoulder of the second body.
US09200498B2 Flow control hanger and polished bore receptacle
A completion system is provided for completing downhole wells, comprising an upper polished bore receptacle incorporated into an intermediate casing of the downhole well and formed with a honed inner bore. A bottom packer for supporting a completion string within the intermediate casing has a first sealing assembly for sealing engagement against the inner bore of the upper polished bore receptacle. A lower polished bore receptacle is further incorporated into the intermediate casing and formed with a honed inner bore. A flow control hanger in the form of a hollow mandrel hangs a production liner in the intermediate casing and has a second sealing assembly for sealing engagement against an inner bore of the lower polished bore receptacle. A further completion system is provided comprising a polished bore receptacle (PBR) and a latch down packer having a lower end to which the PBR is connected.
US09200494B2 Vibration tool
A downhole vibration tool for connection with a pipe string, including a housing, an unbalanced turbine assembly contained within the housing, an inlet for introducing a fluid into the unbalanced turbine assembly, and an outlet for discharging the fluid from the unbalanced turbine assembly. The unbalanced turbine assembly includes a sleeve and at least one annular turbine which is located in an annular bore defined between the housing and the sleeve.
US09200491B2 Determining surface wetting of metal with changing well fluids
Methods and apparatuses for determining surface wetting of a metallic material with changing well fluids. In general, the methods according to the invention include measuring electrical impedance spectroscopy (“EIS”) for a system simulating downhole conditions for the wetting of a surface. Methods and apparatuses for making EIS measurements model double-layer capacitance at a downhole surface in a well, from which the nature and quantification of the wetting of the surface can be inferred.
US09200490B2 Methods for internal cleaning and inspection of tubulars
Methods are disclosed for performing operations such as cleaning, inspection or data acquisition on an internal surface of a hollow cylindrical tubular. Preferred embodiments include providing at least one reel on which a hollow articulated lance is spooled. Tools or sensors, for example, are installed on a distal end of each lance. Hoses, electrical conduits, conductors or other similar carrier hardware inside each hollow lance supply the tools or sensors as required. A stabbing mechanism causes the reel to spool and unspool the lance so that the tools or sensors reciprocate up and down the inside of the rotating tubular.
US09200484B2 Superabrasive-impregnated earth-boring tools with extended features and aggressive compositions, and related methods
A superabrasive-impregnated earth-boring rotary drill bit includes cutting features extending outwardly from a bit body in a nose region of the drill bit. The cutting features comprise a composite material including superabrasive particles embedded within a matrix material. The cutting features extend from an outer surface of the bit body by a relatively high average distance. Methods of forming a superabrasive-impregnated earth-boring rotary drill bit include the formation of cutting features that extend outwardly from a bit body of a drill bit in a nose region of the drill bit. The cutting features are formed to comprise a particle-matrix composite material that includes superabrasive particles embedded within a matrix material. The cutting features are further formed such that they extend from the outer surface of the bit body by a relatively high average distance.
US09200482B2 Wellbore junction completion with fluid loss control
A method of installing a wellbore junction assembly in a well can include inserting a tubular string into a deflector, and opening a flow control device in response to the inserting. A well system can include a deflector positioned at an intersection between at least three wellbore sections, and a tubular string connector having at least two tubular strings connected to an end thereof, one tubular string being received in the deflector and engaged with a flow control device positioned in a wellbore section, and another tubular string being received in another wellbore section. Another method of installing a wellbore junction assembly in a well can include inserting a tubular string into a deflector positioned at a wellbore intersection, then sealingly engaging the tubular string, and then opening a flow control device in response to the inserting.
US09200473B2 Rekeyable lock cylinder, rekeyable padlock and method of rekeying
A rekeyable lock cylinder and a padlock with a rekeyable lock cylinder includes a cylindrical core formed to receive a key and an outer casing formed around the core. The cylinder core may be provided with one or more reconfiguration channels. Pins and springs mounted in openings formed in a spring holder connected to the casing can be removed through the one or more reconfiguration channels when the reconfiguration channels in the core align with assembly openings in the casing and the pin openings in the spring holder, thereby allowing the adaptation of the number of pins mounted in the lock cylinder to the number of cuts provided in the key.
US09200471B2 Mounting accessory for secure attachment of rails to pipe-mounted hollow posts
A mounting accessory is used for secure connection of a rail or other component to a hollow post positioned over an internal upright by a mounting device having an axial passage through which the upright extends. The accessory features interconnected walls facing into an open space left therebetween, the open space being sized to accommodate passage of the upright support therethrough with the mounting accessory oriented to situate the walls on different sides of the upright support. Each wall has an opening therein sized to accommodate a respective portion of the periphery of the mounting device. With a portion of the mounting device periphery received in the opening of each wall, the wall resides at or adjacent the periphery of the device to lie internally adjacent a respective wall of the post to provide extra material for engagement by a screw fastener driven through the post wall.
US09200467B2 Stacking base system for temporary posts
A stacking base system for transporting to a work site supports a plurality of vertical posts. Each of a plurality of base members defines a fill port and includes a port plug adapted to be removably inserted in the fill port, and defines a post aperture, shaped to correspond to a cross-section of the posts, extending downward through the base member. Three legs extend down from outer edges each base member, and are equally spaced around the base member, and substantially equally spaced from the post aperture. The post aperture is oriented vertically when bottom ends of the legs are resting on a horizontal surface. The base members are stacked such that a top portion of a lower base member engages a bottom portion of a next adjacent upper base member and such that the plurality of base members forms a base stack.
US09200466B2 Liquid-resistant control systems enclosure
A liquid-resistant control systems enclosure may include a shell, a shaft and at least one shell anchoring member. The shell may include a top, a shell wall connected to and extending downwardly from a perimeter of the top, and a sleeve. The shaft may extend upwardly through a surface pad and may be adapted to pass through the sleeve. The sleeve may include a sleeve wall extending downwardly from an inner perimeter of an opening in the top. The sleeve may matingly engage the shaft to move the shell between a raised position and a lowered position. The shell may be moveable between a latched position and an unlatched position. The shell may be adapted to be positioned in the latched position when the shell is in the lowered position.
US09200465B2 Method and apparatus for solar pool heating
An apparatus for solar heating of a pool may comprise a floating member, a water heater chamber (WHC) attached to the floating member, and one or more first tubes penetrating into the WHC to allow water from the pool enter the WHC. The floating member may be operable to make the WHC floatable. The apparatus may also include one or more exit ports to allow heated water from the floatable WHC to enter the pool. The floatable WHC may utilize incident solar energy to heat up water. Water may continue to flow into the floatable WHC from the pool due to convection current.
US09200464B1 Universal safety drain and method
A swimming pool safety drain including a base having a bottom, and having end walls and side walls extending upwardly from the bottom to form an open top enclosure. A cover is removably secured to the enclosure and, when secured to the enclosure forms an inlet slot about the periphery thereof. A plurality of drain outlets are formed in the base for connection to water recirculating systems for the swimming pool and any supplemental water recirculating system. A safety bridge is secured in the enclosure between the side walls and is positioned over the drain outlets to provide hair and limb entrapment protection. A construction cover is provided to temporarily replace the permanent cover during construction and installation of the drain.
US09200458B2 Non-structural insulating panel system
An insulating panel structure has an inner surface for attachment to a building exterior and an outer surface for attachment to cladding material. The panel structure has external stringers for attachment of the cladding, connectors extending perpendicularly from the inner surface to the external stringers to transmit compressive forces from the cladding to the building, lateral connectors that run diagonally upward from the external stringers to the inner surface to transmit tensile forces from the weight of the cladding to the building, and insulating foam embedded between the panel inner and outer surfaces. A panel application method includes providing panels with tubular connectors and providing expansible fingers insertable into the tubular connectors and mounted on a movable frame, inserting the fingers into the tubular connectors, expanding them to grip the tubes and panels, moving the frame with expanded fingers and panel to a job site, attaching the panel to a building while being held with the expanded fingers, and contracting and retracting the fingers from the attached panel.
US09200454B2 Trim bead and stucco system including same
A trim bead for a building wall incorporates an outwardly extending flange portion to provide a mechanical key for a layer of exterior finishing coatings, such as stucco coatings. The trim bead may be used in stucco systems for exterior building walls that employ continuous thermal insulation over the building wall substrate.
US09200450B2 Ridge cap with asphaltic foam materials
A ridge cap includes a lower surface adapted to be placed in contact with a roof of a building, a weather protective upper surface, and first and second side sections connected to each other. The first side section is disposed at one side of a longitudinal axis and the second side section is disposed at the other side of the longitudinal axis. The ridge cap further includes an elastomeric strip and a metal strip. The elastomeric strip extends along the longitudinal axis and connects the first side section and the second side section to be of unitary construction with the first and second side sections. The metal strip backing extends along the longitudinal axis and supports the elastomeric strip.
US09200446B1 Bridging member
A bridging member for attachment between two structural members is described. The bridging member addresses the need to provide lateral bracing between wooden structural members such as joists, studs and rafters for which the depth of the members relative to the thicknesses requires bracing to avoid twisting or buckling. The bridging member includes a web and a pair of side flanges. Disposed on each end of the bridging member is an end flange that is disposed at an angle with respect to the web, and a connecting or end tab. The end flanges are adapted to be fastened or connected to opposing sides of the structural members while the end tabs are adapted to be secured to a top or bottom portion of the structural members.
US09200439B1 Firewall system and method
A firewall system includes a wall stud; a wall covering; and an expansion furring. An expansion furring can have a top having first and second top edges; a side, having a side edge, and extending from one of the first and second top edges; and a furring flange, extending from the side edge, and being formed of one or more deformable materials. The furring flange can be attached to the wall stud and to the wall covering with the expansion furring being disposed between the wall stud and furring. The furring flange absorbs, via deformation, at least a portion of movement of the wall stud due to heat-based expansion of the wall stud.
US09200438B2 Acoustic absorbent wall coating
A multilayer sound-absorbing covering includes (a) a support layer made of an organic polymer foam having an open porosity between 0.50 and 0.995, (b) a surface layer formed by a glass textile, having a static air flow resistance, measured according to the standard ISO 9053, between 105 N·s·m-4 and 106 N·s·m-4, (c) at the interface between the support layer (a) and the surface layer (b), a discontinuous adhesive layer having a surface density between 17 and 60 g/m2. There is also provided a process for manufacturing such a covering and the use of such a covering for improving the acoustic comfort of a room or of a building.
US09200435B2 Retainer assembly for swivel spout
A swing spout assembly is disclosed which has a spout having a channel extending from an inlet end to a discharge end. A radially extending groove is formed adjacent the inlet end of the spout, and a snap ring is received in the groove of the spout. A pair of glides in the form of wear washers sandwich the portion of the snap ring extending out of the groove to form a bearing subassembly. An escutcheon is positioned around at least part of the inlet end of the spout. A stationary body has a portion that extends into the channel of the spout and a portion extending around an outer radial periphery of the inlet end of the spout. The portion extending around the outer periphery of the inlet end and the escutcheon defining a pocket that retains the bearing sub-assembly.
US09200432B1 Method and system for estimating payload weight with hydraulic fluid temperature compensation
A system for estimating the weight of a payload in a bucket of a machine is provided. The system includes a lift linkage supporting the bucket and a hydraulic lift cylinder assembly connected to the lift linkage. A pressure sensor is arranged remotely from the lift cylinder assembly. A payload measurement system is configured to monitor pressure data from the pressure sensor, hydraulic fluid temperature data and cylinder extension velocity data. The payload measurement system estimates a weight of the payload in the bucket based on the pressure data as adjusted by an estimate of a pressure drop between the lift cylinder assembly and the pressure sensor, the estimate of the pressure drop being determined based on a mathematical model that has been fitted to empirical data.
US09200431B2 Hydraulic drive system for construction machine
A hydraulic drive system for a construction machine has a travel detection device which detects whether or not the operation mode is a traveling operation and a setting changing device. The setting changing device sets the target differential pressure of load sensing control at an absolute pressure Pa when the operation mode is not a traveling operation, and sets the target differential pressure of the load sensing control at an absolute pressure Pa′ rather than the absolute pressure Pa. In this way, in the actuator operation other than traveling, a necessary actuator speed can be obtained and supplied with the necessary maximum flow rate. In addition, during the combined operation, a flow rate in accordance with the opening area ratios of flow control valves can be distributed to actuators different in load pressure from one another; and energy efficiency is enhanced due to less energy loss during traveling operation.
US09200425B2 Grasping apparatus and construction machine
A grasping apparatus that can be miniaturized and compacted to be mountable in small-size equipment or the like and reduced in weight, and a construction machine in which the grasping apparatus is mounted. The grasping apparatus has a gear mechanism 30 in which an annular inner gear 71 is disposed concentrically with a sun gear 73, plural intermediate gears 68 are interposed in an annular space between the inner gear 71 and the sun gear 73, the plural intermediate gears 68 are freely rotatably supported by a bracket secured to a construction machine or the like, a grasping apparatus swing cylinder 23 rotated by the sun gear 73 or the inner gear 71 is equipped to the construction machine or the like as equipment, an upper fork 36 is secured to the inner gear 71, a lower fork 32 that grasps a conveyance target object 90 or the like in cooperation with the upper fork 36 is secured to the sun gear 73 to which rotating force is transmitted from the inner gear 71 through the intermediate gears 68.
US09200421B2 Full metal jacket compaction wheel cleat and method of manufacturing thereof
A two-piece construction compaction cleat and method of manufacturing thereof is disclosed. The compactor includes a base member affixable to a compactor wheel and having a bottom portion and a center flange, with the center flange extending upwardly from the bottom portion to form an upper ridge and being generally aligned along a center line of the base member. The compactor cleat also includes a cap member secured to the base member and positioned thereover so as to cover at least a portion of the base member, with the cap member having an arrangement of openings configured to receive the center flange therein. The center flange of the base member and the arrangement of openings formed in the cap member are configured to provide for a size-on-size fit between the base member and the cap member, so as to secure the cap member to the base member.
US09200417B2 Guardrail system with a releasable post
A guardrail system includes a guardrail, a support post, and a fastener joining the guardrail and the support post. The support post includes a hole receiving the fastener, a fastener retention mechanism, and a slot for the movement of the fastener during an impact. The fastener retention mechanism retains the fastener in the hole until a predetermined level of force is attained during an impact, after which the fastener is released and moves into the slot. Methods of moving the guardrail relative to the post are also provided.
US09200414B1 Stringless paving train method and apparatus
A method for paving a surface includes identifying the location of a first paving machine in a stringless paving train relative to a reference point and sending instructions to the first paving machine according to a road profile. The method further includes identifying the location of a second paving machine in a stringless paving train relative to the reference point and sending instructions to the second paving machine according to the road profile.
US09200411B2 Mineral paper
A process to manufacture a paper derived from minerals includes the steps of preparing a mineral preparation that includes 50% to 70% of total dry weight of rocks that have been crushed and ground into a powdery substance; combining the mineral preparation with a sodium silicate solution of total dry weight of 30% to 50%; and adding additives having a weight of 2% to 5% of a total dry weight. The powdery substance may have granules of about 0.05 mm to 0.08 mm in diameter and can be mixed with vitamin powder. The igneous rocks can be selected from the set of: dolostone, basalt, granite, gabbro, andesite, diorite, obsidian, pegmatite, peridotite, pumice, rylolite, and scoria. Sedimentary rocks can be selected from the set of: limestone, sandstone, conglomerate, shale, siltstone, brecca, gypsum, chert, travertine, flint, iron ore, rock salt, and oil shale.
US09200410B2 Electrophotographic recording sheet and recorded material
An electrophotographic recording sheet having, on a water-resistant support, a toner-receiving layer containing a liphophilic polymer antistatic agent with a specific surface resistivity of from 1×107 to 9×1012Ω. This electrophotographic recording sheet is excellent in recording quality, fixability, water resistance, durability, color printability and continuous printability.
US09200409B2 Multilayer coating for paper based substrate
Embodiments include a coated paper or paperboard with a multilayer coating and methods of forming a coated paper or paperboard with the multilayer coating. The multilayer coating includes a first water vapor barrier layer, a biopolymer barrier layer, and a second water vapor barrier layer and provides the paperboard with improved oil and grease resistant properties, oxygen barrier properties, and water vapor barrier properties.
US09200405B2 Cord having an improved adhesion promoting coating
The invention relates to cord (20) comprising a number of filaments twisted together. The peripheral surface of the cord (20) is at least partially coated with an adhesion promoting coating (24). The adhesion promoting coating (24) comprises at least a first layer comprising a silicon based coating, a titanium based coating, a zirconium based coating or a combination thereof. The invention further relates to a composite material comprising such a cord (20) embedded in a polymer material. Furthermore the invention relates to a method to manufacture such a cord (20).
US09200403B2 Gravity-fed combined iron and steamer
An iron includes a housing, a sole plate coupled to the housing and having a plurality of openings formed therein, a water reservoir in the housing, a first steam chamber in selective fluid communication with the water reservoir via a first feed channel, and a heater in thermal communication with the sole plate and the first steam chamber. The heater heats the sole plate and water in the first steam chamber received from the water reservoir to generate steam. A steam nozzle is mounted to the housing and is in fluid communication with the first steam chamber for emitting at least a first volume of the steam. A feedback tube extends between the first steam chamber and the water reservoir for passing at least a second volume of the steam to the water reservoir.
US09200400B2 Laundry treating appliance and method of operation
A laundry treating appliance for treating a laundry load according to at least one cycle of operation and a method of operating a laundry treating appliance to control the rotation of the drum to distribute the laundry load with an acceptable amount of imbalance such that the laundry treating appliance may be operated in an effective and efficient manner.
US09200399B2 Washing machine and washing water supply device
Provided is a washing machine including a main body having an opening and a door assembly disposed at the opening, wherein the door assembly includes a door that opens and closes the opening and an auxiliary washing unit having an auxiliary washing space in which hand-washing can be performed, and provided to pivot about one side of the door in an inside of the door. Through this configuration, separated washing spaces can be provided and separate hand-washing can be performed. Also, pressure of washing water supplied into the washing machine can be regulated so that water supply efficiency can be improved and a flow rate of the washing water can be adjusted.
US09200398B2 Continuous batch tunnel washer and method
A method of washing fabric articles in a tunnel washer that includes moving the fabric articles from the intake of the washer to the discharge of the washer and through multiple modules or sectors. Liquid can be counter flowed in the washer interior along a flow path that is generally opposite the direction of travel of the fabric articles in order to rinse the fabric articles. While counterflow rinsing, the flow rate can be maintained at a selected flow rate or flow pressure head. One or more booster pumps can optionally be employed to maintain constant counterflow rinsing flow rate or constant counterflow rinsing pressure head. A source of fresh, make-up water can be provided to adjust conductivity. Conductivity is monitored in at least one of the modules. Conductivity of fluid in the discharged fabric articles is monitored. Make up water is added to one or more modules before if the conductivity of water in the discharged fabric articles exceeds a threshold value. In one embodiment, one of the modules is an empty pocket that is drained of fluid when rinsing with counterflowing liquid.
US09200396B2 Spool-less, continuous bobbin assembly and method of use
The present invention is a spool-less, continuous bobbin assembly and a method of use for forming a stitch in a stitching surface. The spool-less, continuous bobbin assembly is generally comprised of a needle assembly for an upper thread, a looping assembly for the upper thread and an application assembly to deposit a lower thread material onto a stitching surface.
US09200392B2 Melt-blown nonwoven fabric, and production process and apparatus for the same
It is an object of the present invention to provide a stable production process for a melt-blown nonwoven fabric comprising thin fibers and having extremely few thick fibers [number of fusion-bonded fibers] formed by fusion bonding of thermoplastic resin fibers to one another, and an apparatus for the same. The present invention relates to a melt-blown nonwoven fabric comprising polyolefin fibers and having (i) a mean fiber diameter of not more than 2.0 μm, (ii) a fiber diameter distribution CV value of not more than 60%, and (iii) 15 or less fusion-bonded fibers based on 100 fibers; a production process for a melt-blown nonwoven fabric characterized by feeding cooling air of not higher than 30° C. from both side surfaces of outlets of slits 31 from which high-temperature high-velocity air is gushed out and thereby cooling the spun molten resin; and a production apparatus for the same.
US09200391B2 Mat, method for manufacturing the mat, and apparatus for purifying exhaust gas
A mat includes a first principal face, a second principal face opposite to the first principal face, entangled points, and unentangled portions. The entangled points are provided by entangling inorganic fibers with one another. The unentangled portions are provided from the first principal face to the second principal face. The inorganic fibers are not entangled with one another and are arranged substantially parallel to one another in said unentangled portions.
US09200390B2 Buffer substrate and use thereof
In a nonwoven fiber assembly which comprises a fiber comprising a thermal adhesive fiber under moisture and in which the fiber are entangled with each other, the fibers are bonded at contacting points of the fibers by melting the thermal adhesive fiber under moisture to distribute the bonded points approximately uniformly, thereby obtaining a buffer substrate. The buffer substrate may further comprises a conjugated fiber comprising a plurality of resins which are different in thermal shrinkage and form a phase separation structure, and the conjugated fibers may have an approximately uniform crimps having an average curvature radius of 20 to 200 μm and are entangled with the fibers constituting the nonwoven fiber assembly. The buffer substrate can be obtained by a method comprising the steps of: forming a web from the fiber comprising the thermal adhesive fiber under moisture; and subjecting the obtained fiber web to a heat and moisture treatment with a high-temperature water vapor to melt the thermal adhesive fiber under moisture for bonding the fibers. The buffer substrate has a high air-permeability, an excellent cushion property and softness.
US09200386B2 Anti-UV fiber and method of manufacturing thereof
A method of forming color change fiber, comprises preparing polymer base material and preparing color changeable material; mixing said polymer base material and said color changeable material with a weight percentage ratio; loading said mixed said polymer base material and said color changeable material into a melting apparatus; forming polymer fiber by spinning, weaving process, wherein said polymer fiber is color changeable when sunlight irradiates on said polymer fiber.
US09200383B2 Method for the manufacture of fibrous yarn
A method for the manufacture of fibrous yarn includes providing an aqueous suspension formed from fibers and at least one rheology modifier; directing the aqueous suspension through at least one nozzle, to form at least one yarn, and subjecting said yarn to dewatering. The at least one nozzle can have an inner diameter of an outlet smaller than or equal to a maximum length weighed fiber length of the fibers.
US09200382B2 High-stringency screening of target-binding partners using a microfluidic device
The invention provides a method of screening a library of candidate agents by contacting the library with a target in a reaction mixture under a condition of high stringency, wherein the target includes a tag that responds to a controllable force applied to the tag, and passing the members of the library through a microfluidic device in a manner that exposes the library members to the controllable force, thereby displacing members of the library that are bound to the target relative to their unbound counterparts. Kits and systems for use with the methods of the invention are also provided.
US09200381B2 Producing high quality bulk silicon carbide single crystal by managing thermal stresses at a seed interface
A method is disclosed for producing a high quality bulk single crystal of silicon carbide in a seeded growth system by reducing the separation between a silicon carbide seed crystal and a seed holder until the conductive heat transfer between the seed crystal and the seed holder dominates the radiative heat transfer between the seed crystal and the seed holder over substantially the entire seed crystal surface that is adjacent the seed holder.
US09200380B2 Single-crystal manufacturing method and single-crystal manufacturing apparatus
The present invention provides a silicon single crystal manufacturing method for manufacturing a single crystal based on a horizontal magnetic field applied CZ method for pulling the single crystal while applying a horizontal magnetic field to a silicon raw material melt accommodated in a quartz crucible by a magnetic field application device, comprising: measuring a center position of the magnetic field generated by the magnetic field application device; and deviating the measured center position of the magnetic field from a pulling member serving as a rotation axis of the single crystal in a horizontal direction within the range of 2 to 14 mm before manufacture of the single crystal and/or during manufacture of the single crystal. As a result, the silicon single crystal manufacturing method and manufacturing apparatus that enable manufacture of a single crystal while suppressing fluctuations in diameter and in oxygen concentration without a variation caused due to characteristics of the apparatus can be provided.
US09200372B2 Passivation composition and process
This disclosure relates to a passivation composition containing at least one sulfonic acid, at least one compound containing a nitrate or nitrosyl ion, and water. The passivation composition is substantially free of a halide ion.
US09200371B2 Nano-layer coating for high performance tools
The present invention relates to a coated body comprising a substrate and a coating onto the substrate, the coating having a nanolaminated coating system having a nanolaminated coating structure of alternating A and B layers (AlxTi1-x-yWy)N/(Ti1-z-uSizWu)N, the individual thickness of each nanolayer being maximal 200 nm and the nanolaminated coating structure exhibiting a fine-grained structure.
US09200369B2 Apparatus for treating thin film and method of treating thin film
An apparatus and method for treating a thin film on a substrate is presented. The substrate is loaded on a fixed stage adapted to receive the substrate. An energy source is aligned through a space in a gas shield so as to face a thin film on the substrate to be repaired after the substrate is loaded. A protective insulating layer is removed by radiation from the energy source, a reaction gas is supplied to the space, and an open and/or short circuit in the thin film is repaired. The energy source and/or gas shield is moved during the repair, rather than the stage. If the energy source and gas shield are both moved, they are moved in opposite directions, either independently or dependent on each other, by first and second operating units, respectively.
US09200367B2 Method and apparatus for gas delivery
Methods and apparatus for gas delivery are disclosed herein. In some embodiments, a gas delivery system includes an ampoule for storing a precursor in solid or liquid form, a first conduit coupled to the ampoule and having a first end coupled to a first gas source to draw a vapor of the precursor from the ampoule into the first conduit, a second conduit coupled to the first conduit at a first junction located downstream of the ampoule and having a first end coupled to a second gas source and a second end coupled to a process chamber, and a heat source configured to heat the ampoule and at least a first portion of the first conduit from the ampoule to the second conduit and to heat only a second portion of the second conduit, wherein the second portion of the second conduit includes the first junction.
US09200366B2 Method of making polycrystalline monolithic magnesium aluminate spinels
Methods of making polycrystalline monolithic magnesium aluminate spinels are disclosed. The polycrystalline monolithic magnesium aluminate spinels have small grain sizes and may be deposited on substrates as thick one-piece deposits. The polycrystalline monolithic magnesium aluminate spinels may be prepared and deposited by chemical vapor deposition using magnesium and aluminum gaseous precursors.
US09200365B2 Method of catalytic film deposition
Provided are methods of catalytic atomic layer deposition using pyridine-based catalysts. Certain methods comprising activating a reaction between at least two film precursors and certain other methods of catalytic deposition of SiO2, both of which comprise using a pyridine-based catalyst.
US09200362B2 Substrate holder stocker device, substrate processing apparatus, and substrate holder moving method using the substrate holder stocker device
A substrate holder stocker device capable of reducing foot print is provided. The device includes: a movable table A which holds a plurality of substrate holders side by side in a plate thickness direction thereof and moves back and forth; a movable table B which is provided parallel to the movable table A and holds a plurality of the substrate holders side by side in a plate thickness direction thereof, and which moves back and forth; and an inter-table transfer mechanism for allowing the substrate holder which is held by one of the movable tables A and B stopped at predetermined positions to be held by the other of the movable tables A and B.
US09200361B2 Deposition apparatus providing improved replacing apparatus for deposition rate measuring sensor, and replacing method using the same
A deposition apparatus includes a vacuum chamber, a sensor head located in the vacuum chamber and including a plurality of deposition rate measuring sensors, a sensor extractor coupled to the vacuum chamber and including a first vacuum maintaining valve, the sensor extractor being configured to extract one of the deposition rate measuring sensors to outside the vacuum chamber, and a sensor inserter coupled to the vacuum chamber and including a second vacuum maintaining valve, the sensor inserter being configured to insert one of the deposition rate measuring sensors into the sensor head.
US09200360B2 Arc evaporation source and film forming method using the same
Provided is an arc evaporation source wherein film-forming speed is increased by inducing magnetic lines in the substrate direction. The arc evaporation source is provided with: at least one outer circumferential magnet (3), which is disposed such that the outer circumferential magnet surrounds the outer circumference of a target (2) and that the magnetization direction thereof is in the direction orthogonally intersecting the surface of the target (2); and a rear surface magnet (4) disposed on the rear surface side of the target (2). The rear surface magnet (4) has a non-ring-shaped first permanent magnet (4A) wherein the polarity thereof faces the same direction as the polarity of the outer circumferential magnet (3) and the magnetization direction of the rear surface magnet (4) is in the direction orthogonally intersecting the surface of the target (2).
US09200359B2 Thin-layered structure
The invention provides a vacuum enclosure which is defined by a wall having inner and outer surfaces, where the inner surface is in contact with the vacuum and the outer surface is in contact with ambient air. The vacuum enclosure is characterized by the presence therein of a getter for undesired gaseous contaminants. The getter includes a substrate (either integral with the inner surface or not) and, deposited thereon by vacuum deposition, a thin-layer laminate including at least one layer (α) of substance(s) such as platinum group metals and oxides thereof, and at least one porous hydrophilic layer (β). A corresponding layered structure having utility as a getter is also part of the invention.
US09200346B2 Dry granulation of metallurgical slag
A process for dry granulation of hot liquid slag wherein the hot liquid slag is mixed with solid metallic particles so as to form a solidified, vitrified slag cake mixed with the metallic particles, the slag cake is crushed so as to form hot slag particles and heated solid particles, said particles are cooled and said solid metallic particles are recycled.
US09200343B2 High strength steel sheet and method for manufacturing the same
A high strength steel sheet has tensile strength of at least 1470 MPa and (tensile strength ×total elongation) of at least 29000 MPa·% with a composition including, by mass %, C.: 0.30% to 0.73%, Si: 3.0% or less, Al: 3.0% or less, Si+Al: at least 0.7%, Cr: 0.2% to 8.0%, Mn: 10.0% or less, Cr+Mn: at least 1.0%, P: 0.1% or less, S: 0.07% or less, N: 0.010% or less, and remainder as Fe and incidental impurities; and processing the steel sheet such that microstructure satisfies area ratio of martensite with respect to the microstructure of 15% to 90%; content of retained austenite of 10% to 50%; at least 50% of the martensite is constituted of tempered martensite and area ratio of the tempered martensite with respect to the microstructure is at least 10%; and area ratio of polygonal ferrite with respect to the microstructure is 10% or less.
US09200341B1 Systems and methods of cavitation peening a workpiece
A method of cavitation peening a workpiece is provided. The method includes discharging a flow of fluid towards the workpiece at a pressure and a flow rate that facilitates forming a plurality of cavitation bubbles, monitoring a feedback parameter associated with the plurality of cavitation bubbles, and determining a peening intensity of the plurality of cavitation bubbles based at least partially on a value of the feedback parameter.
US09200337B2 Method for mixed biomass hydrolysis
Methods and systems are disclosed for the hydrolysis of mixed biomass. The methods include forming a mixture of at least two modified biomass feedstocks to achieve various benefits, such as maximizing sugar yields and minimizing the formation of degradation products.
US09200336B2 Method and system for fractionation of lignocellulosic biomass
Methods and systems for fractionating lignocellulosic biomass including hemicellulose, cellulose and lignin, including exploding the biomass cells to devolatilize the biomass, hydrolyzing the hemicellulose to produce a liquid component including hemicellulosic sugars and a solid component including less than 10% hemicellulose, separating the liquid and solid components, vaporizing the cellulose in the solid component, and condensing the cellulosic sugar vapors. The methods and systems may vaporize the cellulose in a continuous steam reactor at a temperature of about 400-550° C. and a pressure of about 1-3 bara. Electromagnetic and/or electroacoustic treatment such as ultrasound and/or microwave treatment may be applied to the biomass immediately before or during cellulose hydrolysis.
US09200335B2 Separative bioreactor
A bioreactor that combines the steps of recombinant expression and separation of a biological product by binding the secreted biological product with a resin, discarding the nutrient medium and eluting the biological product as a concentrated solution, eliminating the steps of sterile filtration and volume reduction. The method also allows loading of resin for column-purification, eliminating all steps of perfusion process and maintaining a sink condition of a toxic product in nutrient medium to optimize productivity of host cells. The instant invention also allows harvesting of solubilized inclusion bodies after the cells have been lysed and refolding of proteins inside the bioreactor.
US09200334B2 Cell sorter system and method
Provided herein are improved cell sorter systems and methods. Such systems and methods provide a self-stabilizing sorter jet to automate calibration, and address the issue of drift in cell sorting systems. The systems and methods presented make it possible to determine and set the charge delay interval automatically with circuitry in the cell sorter. These circuits can set, monitor, and adjust the time delay continuously, allowing for a completely automatic, autonomous, turn-key, self-stabilizing sorter jet.
US09200329B2 Rapid epidemiologic typing of bacteria
Methods for typing a strain of an organism are provided, the methods comprising the steps of amplifying, in a single reaction mixture containing nucleic acid from the organism, dividing the reaction mixture into a plurality of sets of second-stage reaction wells, each set of second-stage reaction wells containing a different pair of second-stage primers, subjecting each of the second-stage reaction wells to amplification conditions to generate a plurality of second-stage amplicons, melting the second-stage amplicons to generate a melting curve for each second-stage amplicon, and identifying the strain of the organism from the melting curves.
US09200328B1 Methods and kits for diagnosing the prognosis of cancer patients
The prognosis of a cancer patient can be determined by analyzing the modulation of expression of specified genes in the tumor tissue. Genes uniquely up-regulated in adult stem cells that can reconstitute the tissue of the tumor are analyzed for up-regulation in the patient's tumor. Up-regulation of a plurality of such genes in the tumor is an indication of good prognosis. Genes uniquely up-regulated in fetal stem cells are analyzed for up-regulation in the patient's tumor. Up-regulation of a plurality of such genes in the tumor are an indication of a poor prognosis. Specific genes are disclosed, the modulation of which, in a patient's prostate cancer tumor, will serve as an indication of prognosis. Patients with a good prognosis are subjected to watchful waiting. Patients with a poor prognosis are aggressively treated. Kits are provided containing a set of affinity reagents that specifically detect expression of the various genes.
US09200325B2 Diagnostic methods and kit for detecting cancer
The present disclosure is directed to compositions and methods for detecting elevated microRNA U6 concentrations in serum relative to a standard microRNA (e.g. SNORD44) as a diagnostic indicator of metastatic disease. In one embodiment the methods of the present disclosure are used to diagnose the existence of, or assess the risk of, breast cancer in an individual.
US09200320B2 Real-time sequencing methods and systems
The present invention is generally directed to compositions, methods, and systems for performing single-molecule, real-time analysis of a variety of different biological reactions. The ability to analyze such reactions provides an opportunity to study those reactions as well as to potentially identify factors and/or approaches for impacting such reactions, e.g., to either enhance or inhibit such reactions. In certain preferred embodiments, RNA templates are used in single-molecule real-time sequencing reactions.
US09200318B2 Reduced inhibition of one-step RT-PCR
The present invention provides a method for amplifying a nucleic acid molecule. The method involves mixing an RNA template with a composition having a reverse transcriptase, a DNA polymerase and a RT inhibition reducer. The RT inhibition reducer can be Sso7d, Sac7d, Sac7e, Sso7e, AluI methylase, suramin, a phosphorothioate oligodeoxycytosine, a phosphorothioate oligodeoxyadenine, a phosphorothioate oligodeoxythymine or poly(rA)(dT). The mixing forms a mixture that is incubated under conditions sufficient to synthesize a DNA molecule complementary to all or a portion of the RNA template, thereby amplifying the nucleic acid molecule.
US09200312B2 Methods and compositions for amplifying a detectable signal
Methods and materials are disclosed relating to an improved method for amplifying a signal in a diagnostic assay for a nucleic acid, comprising the steps of providing an amplification polymer bound to a nucleic acid analyte, wherein the amplification polymer comprises a plurality of amine groups; binding amine groups on the amplification polymer with a detectable label complex; and reacting under high salt conditions an acetylating compound with amine groups not bound with a detectable label complex.
US09200310B2 High fidelity restriction endonucleases
Methods and compositions are provided for engineering mutant enzymes with reduced star activity where the mutant enzymes have a fidelity index (FI) in a specified buffer that is greater than the FI of the non-mutated enzyme in the same buffer.
US09200298B2 Host cells and methods for producing isoprenyl alkanoates
The invention provides for a method of producing an isoprenyl alkanoate in a genetically modified host cell. In one embodiment, the method comprises culturing a genetically modified host cell which expresses an enzyme capable of catalyzing the esterification of an isoprenol and a straight-chain fatty acid, such as an alcohol acetyltransferase (AAT), wax ester synthase/diacylglycerol acyltransferase (WS/DGAT) or lipase, under a suitable condition so that the isoprenyl alkanoate is produced.
US09200294B2 Brassica indehiscent1sequences
The present application provides Brassica INDEHISCENT1 (BIND) sequences.
US09200291B2 Compositions and methods for creating altered and improved cells and organisms
The present invention provides compositions comprising randomized in-frame fusion polynucleotides and methods for introducing them into a host organism to identify desirable phenotypic changes that disrupt or alter existing genetic or biochemical mechanisms or pathways, thus creating novel characteristics of the transformed organism. Methods for using the compositions for increasing diversity within populations of organisms are also presented.
US09200288B2 Production of 1,4-butanediol by recombinant microorganisms
Provided herein are metabolically-modified microorganisms useful for producing 1,4-butanediol.
US09200287B2 Phosphate-modified oligonucleotide analogs with enhanced immunostimulatory activity
The invention relates to oligonucleotides including at least one backbone modification and a pyrimidine-purine dinucleotide. The invention also relates to pharmaceutical compositions and methods of use thereof.
US09200283B2 Methods for the treatment of hepatitis B and hepatitis D infections
It is disclosed a method for the treatment of hepatitis B (HBV) infection or HBV/hepatitis D (HDV) co-infection, the method comprising administering to a subject in need of treatment a first pharmaceutically acceptable agent that removes the hepatitis B surface antigen from the blood and a second pharmaceutically acceptable agent which stimulates immune function.
US09200277B2 Treatment of sex hormone binding globulin (SHBG) related diseases by inhibition of natural antisense transcript to SHBG
The present invention relates to antisense oligonucleotides that modulate the expression of and/or function of Sex Hormone Binding Globulin (SHBG), in particular, by targeting natural antisense polynucleotides of Sex Hormone Binding Globulin (SHBG). The invention also relates to the identification of these antisense oligonucleotides and their use in treating diseases and disorders associated with the expression of SHBG.
US09200274B2 Expanded radix for polymeric tags
A method having steps of (a) providing nucleic acids having a tag sequence (N1)n(N2)n . . . (Nx)n, wherein N1, N2 and Nx are nucleotides that complement different nucleotides, respectively, wherein n is an integer that can differ for N1, N2 and Nx; (b) detecting the nucleic acids individually and under conditions to distinguish signal intensities for (N1)n sequences having different values for n, (N2)n sequences having different values for n and. (Nx)n sequences having different values for n; and (c) distinguishing the tags based on the signal intensities.
US09200270B2 Methods for transforming yeast
This invention is directed to the transformation of yeast, and mutants thereof, by electroporation, which result in stably transformed yeast host cells that express recombinant products. This invention also is directed to transformed yeast cells and libraries.
US09200265B2 Anti-cocaine compositions and treatment
Embodiments of the invention disclosed herein generally relate to anti-cocaine therapeutics. Specifically, some embodiments of the invention relate to highly efficient, thermostable, and long-lasting cocaine esterase (CocE) mutants that can protect against the toxic and reinforcing effects of cocaine in subjects. Provided herein are mutant CocE polypeptides displaying thermostable esterase activity. Also provided are methods of treating cocaine-induced conditions in a subject in need via administration of mutant CocE as well as methods for high-throughput screening of candidate esterase polypeptides.
US09200263B2 Recombinant PRPK-TPRKB and uses thereof
The present invention provides a recombinant PRPK protein, a recombinant TPRKB protein, or a recombinant PRPK/TPRKB complex expressed by use of a eukaryotic cell expression system. The present invention also provides a method of preparing a recombinant PRPK, a recombinant TPRKB, or a recombinant PRPK/TPRKB, comprising expressing a recombinant PRPK, a recombinant TPRKB, or a recombinant PRPK/TPRKB complex by use of a eukaryotic cell expression system. The present invention also provides a method of identifying an agent that modulates PRPK, TPRKB, or PRPK/TPRKB complex using the recombinant PRPK, the recombinant PRPK or the recombinant PRPK/TPRKB complex.
US09200258B2 Multicellular organotypic model of human intestinal mucosa
Disclosed are methods of preparing multi-cellular three-dimensional tissue constructs, that include fibroblasts, endothelial cells, lymphocytes and epithelial cells. The present methods may include embedding fibroblasts and endothelial cells in a matrix enriched with gut basement membrane proteins to form a cell containing matrix that is then added to a bioreactor and exposed to epithelial cells and activated lymphocytes as the cell cultures. Also provided are the tissue constructs formed from such methods, a matrix enriched with gut basement membrane proteins and kits that include the same. Further provided are methods of measuring toxicity of a pathogen or commensal organisms, chemosensitivity of tissues to a toxic material and inflammatory conditions, which use the present multi-cellular three-dimensional tissue constructs.
US09200256B2 Multipotent stem cell cultures
The invention provides methods for propagation of multipotent stem cells from human skin fibroblast samples using an appropriate medium, such as an amniotic fluid medium (AFM), and subsequent differentiation of the cells into cells of any of the three germ layers. The invention also provides methods of differentiating and making various tissues from multipotent cells in skin fibroblasts cultures that are capable of in vitro differentiation and that the cells are useful as a source of in vivo gene and/or autologous cell therapy. Isolated multipotent stem cells, cultures of multipotent stem cells, and differentiated cells derived from the cultures of multipotent stem cells that are obtained by the methods disclosed herein also are provided. The methods, cells, cultures, media, banks, batches, and collections so provided can be used for various medical, research, diagnostic and therapeutic uses.
US09200254B2 Method for producing differentiated cells
The present invention has an object of providing a method for producing specific cells by amplifying cells in a desired differentiation stage. The present invention provides a method for producing specific cells by inducing differentiation of cells, wherein an oncogene is forcibly expressed in cells in a desired differentiation stage to amplify the cells in the desired differentiation stage. The present invention also provides a method for producing specific cells, wherein oncogene-induced senescence (OIS) which is induced by the oncogene expressed in the cells in the desired differentiation stage is suppressed.
US09200248B2 Bioreactor comprising a silicone coating
The invention relates to a bioreactor for cultivating phototrophic organisms in an aqueous culture medium. The reactor parts and/or fittings that come into contact with the culture medium are entirely or partially coated with a silicone layer, and the surface of the silicone layer has a contact angle to the water of at least 100°.
US09200247B2 Bioreactor consisting of silicone materials
The invention relates to a bioreactor for cultivating phototrophic organisms in an aqueous culture medium, the reactor parts that come into contact with the culture medium being entirely or partially produced from silicone materials. The invention is characterized in that the silicone materials are produced from addition-crosslinked silicones, and the surface of the silicone materials has a contact angle to the water of at least 100°.
US09200245B2 Multiwell plate
A mulitwell plate having a plurality of picowells on the bottom of the wells of the plate as well as methods of producing the mulitwell plate are provided. Provided is also a method of handling living cells by providing an ordered array of living cells immobilized in a non-fluid matrix, contacting the living cells with a stimulus; and detecting a response to the stimulus. The present invention is also of a method of producing an ordered array of living cells.
US09200240B2 Bright detergent composition
A colored laundry detergent is provided that brightens on exposure to light.
US09200234B1 System, composition and method of application of same for reducing the coefficient of friction and required pulling force during installation of wire or cable
A composition and method for reducing the coefficient of friction and required pulling force of a wire or cable are provided. A composition of aqueous emulsion is provided that is environmentally friendly, halogen free and solvent free. The composition is compatible with various types of insulating materials and may be applied after the wire or cable is cooled and also by spraying or submerging the wire or cable in a bath. The composition contains lubricating agents that provide lower coefficient of friction for wire or cable installation and continuous wire or cable surface lubrication thereafter.
US09200233B2 (Meth)acrylate polymers for improving the viscosity index
The invention relates to a (meth)acrylate polymer for improving the viscosity index, which comprises a) from 5 to 60 wt % of repeating units that are derived from (meth)acrylates of formula (I), where R represents hydrogen or methyl and R1 is an alkyl radical having from 1 to 6 carbon atoms, b) from 5 to 80 wt % of repeating units that are derived from (meth)acrylates of formula (II), where R is hydrogen or methyl and R2 is an alkyl radical having from 7 to 30 carbon atoms, and c) from 15 to 90 wt % of repeating units that are derived from (meth)acrylates of formula (III), where R is hydrogen or methyl, n is an integer in the range of 2 to 500 and A is C2-C4 alkylene and R3 is a hydrogen atom or an alkyl radical having from 1 to 4 carbon atoms. The invention further relates to novel lubricating oil compositions, to a method for producing the above-mentioned (meth)acrylate polymers and to the use thereof for improving the viscosity index of lubricating oil compositions that comprise at least one polar base oil.
US09200232B2 Rheological methods to determine the predisposition of a polymer to form network or gel
A method is provided to determine the predisposition of a polymer to form network or gel in a lubricating oil which comprises obtaining a composition of a polymer in a diluent, measuring the shear stress as a function of shear rate, determining the yield stress using the Herschel-Bulkley equation and assessing the yield stress. A method is also provided to determine the predisposition of a polymer to form network or gel in a lubricating oil which comprises obtaining a composition of a polymer in a diluent, determining at least one of (i) the storage modulus G′ and loss modulus G″ of the composition by subjecting the composition to sinusoidal (oscillating) stress or strain of certain amplitude and frequency, (ii) the phase lag (angle) of the response strain or stress δ, or (iii) the tangent (tan) δ, and (c) assessing at least one of the G′, G″, δ, or tan(δ) determined.
US09200226B1 Esters of alkoxylated quaternary ammonium salts and fuels containing them
A fuel soluble additive for a gasoline or diesel engine, a method for making the additive, a fuel containing the additive, a method for improving performance of fuel injectors for an engine. The fuel soluble additive includes an esterified quaternary ammonium salt derived from a tertiary amine, an epoxide, a proton donor and an anhydride.
US09200222B2 Gasification reactor having direct or indirect support at coolant inlet lines or mixture outlet lines
A cooling shield is to be made available, in particular within the pressure container, with conical regions for the exit of gas or slag, in a gasification reactor (1) for producing crude gas containing CO or H2, having a pressure container (2) and a reaction chamber (4) formed by a membrane wall (3) of cooling pipes, wherein an annular space is formed between the inner wall of the pressure container (2) and the membrane wall (3), wherein elements such as burners (17) or the like are provided, which elements horizontally pass through the pressure container wall in the membrane wall substantially on the same plane (18), wherein the suspension or connection between the cooling shield and pressure container (load removal) is optimized, while avoiding difference expansions.This is achieved in that, for removal of the load on the membrane wall (3), direct or indirect support takes place at the cooling inlet lines (5) or mixture outlet lines (14).
US09200219B2 Strong base amines to minimize corrosion in systems prone to form corrosive salts
Corrosion by ammonia/amine salts in hydrocarbon streams such as distillation overhead streams that contain a mineral acid and water can be prevented, avoided or minimized by adding certain strong amines to the streams. The amines have a pKa between about 10.5 to about 12 and include, but are not necessarily limited to, dimethylamine, diethylamine, dipropylamine, diisopropylamine, di-n-butylamine, diisobutylamine, di-sec-butylamine, di-tert-butylamine, pyrrolidine, piperidine, and combinations thereof. If the hydrocarbon stream further includes a nitrogen-containing compound such as ammonia, a tramp and/or a residual amine which can form a corrosive salt with the mineral acid, then the added amine is a stronger base than the tramp or residual amine, if present. The amount of added amine is greater than total amount of nitrogen-containing compound, so that any corrosive salts formed are less corrosive than the salts that would otherwise form from the ammonia and/or tramp amine.
US09200218B2 Fuels hydrocracking with dewaxing of fuel products
This invention relates to a process involving hydrocracking and dewaxing of a feedstream in which a converted fraction can correspond to a majority of the product from the reaction system, while an unconverted fraction can exhibit improved properties. In this hydrocracking process, it can be advantageous for the yield of unconverted fraction for gasoline fuel application to be controlled to maintain desirable cold flow properties for the unconverted fraction. Catalysts and conditions can be chosen to assist in attaining, or to optimize, desirable product yields and/or properties.
US09200217B2 Gas oil composition and method for producing same
The present invention provides a method for producing a gas oil composition which contains a cracked base gas oil with a poor oxidation stability but is enhanced in oxidation stability resulting in less sludge or deposit formation. The method comprises blending 0.5 to 15 percent by volume of a cracked reformed base oil having a total aromatic content of 80 to 100 percent by volume, a bicyclic aromatic content of 40 to 95 percent by volume, a 10 vol. % distillation temperature of 160 to 250° C. and a 90 vol. % distillation temperature of 260 to 330° C. and 10 to 70 percent by volume of a cracked base gas oil thereby producing a gas oil composition with an induction period of 60 minutes or longer, a sulfur content of 10 ppm by mass or less and a cetane number of 45 or greater.
US09200214B2 Catalytic reforming
Methods and systems for improved catalytic reforming are disclosed. A method of catalytic reforming includes feeding a feedstream comprising C6-convertibles to one or more reactors; contacting the feedstream with a reforming catalyst; selecting values for a LHSV, a H2/HC ratio, and a conversion of C6-convertibles from a deactivation kinetic model so as to maximize a net present amount of benzene produced over a run-length of the reforming catalyst; operating the one or more reactors at the selected LHSV, the selected H2/HC ratio, and the selected conversion of C6-convertibles; and recovering an effluent from the reactor, wherein the effluent comprises at least about 40 wt % benzene.
US09200211B2 Low complexity, high yield conversion of heavy hydrocarbons
A process for producing pipeline-ready or refinery-ready feedstock from heavy hydrocarbons using a high-performance solvent extraction process with high local solvent-to-process fluid ratios yet maintaining low overall solvent-to-process fluid ratios, by first performing mild thermal cracking on the heavy hydrocarbons and then separating asphaltene-rich fractions from a resulting thermally affected fluid so that the high solvent-to-oil ratio portion of the process acts only on those asphaltene-rich fractions, and producing a dry, solid asphaltene as an end-product.
US09200208B2 Compositions of matter comprising extracted algae oil
Crude algae oils produced by practical extraction techniques comprise a wide range of molecular species that can be characterized by advanced analytical techniques. The algae oils comprise a complex mixture of a large number of molecules having varying sizes and therefore varying boiling points, and comprise high nitrogen, oxygen, and fatty acid content, but low sulfur, saturated hydrocarbons, and triglyceride content. Hydrogen/carbon molar ratios are typically greater than 1.6. The wide range of molecular species in the crude algae oils, while unusual compared to conventional refinery feed stocks and vegetable oils, may be upgraded into fuels by conventional refining approaches such as hydrotreating and thermal treatment. Unusual behavior of the algae oils in thermal processing and/or hydrotreatment may provide a high quality product slate, with the flexibility to adjust the product slate due to enhanced cracking behavior exhibited by these algae oils.
US09200207B2 Methods of producing liquid hydrocarbon fuels from solid plastic wastes
A method of producing liquid hydrocarbon fuels for solid waste plastic by reacting the waste plastic with a metal hydride and a supported catalyst which is mixed and then gasified to produce liquid hydrocarbons is described.
US09200205B2 Multi-purpose reactor and process for the preparation of modified bitumen
A reactor is provided for the preparation of modified bitumen, which reactor comprises a horizontal housing comprising a cylindrical wall and two side walls, wherein a bitumen inlet has been provided at or near one of the side walls of the housing and a bitumen product outlet has been provided at or near the opposite side wall of the housing, wherein a plurality of inlets for the provision of oxygen-containing gas has been provided in the cylindrical wall of the housing between the bitumen inlet and the bitumen product outlet, which multi-purpose reactor is further provided with a mixer arranged inside the housing comprising at least one rotor rotating within at least one stator having a plurality of openings. Also there is provided a process for the preparation of modified bitumen, which comprises contacting bitumen at elevated temperature and pressure with a modifier in a reactor as herein described.
US09200202B2 Nematic liquid crystal composition and liquid crystal display device using the same
There is provided a liquid crystal composition having a positive dielectric anisotropy including: a dielectrically positive component (A) containing a dielectrically positive compound represented by Formula (1), and a dielectrically neutral component (B) having a dielectric anisotropy larger than −2 and smaller than +2 and containing at least one of dielectrically neutral compounds represented by Formulae (2.1) and (2.2).
US09200200B2 Phosphor, light emitting device, surface light source device, display device and illumination device
There are provided a phosphor, a light emitting device, a surface light source device, a display device and an illumination device. The phosphor includes an α-type Si3N4 crystal structure and includes oxynitride represented by an empirical formula CaxEuyMzSi12-(m+n)Aln+mOnN16-n, wherein M is at least one selected from a group consisting of Sr, Lu, La and Ba, and satisfies 0.5≦x≦1.1, 0.00005≦y≦0.09, 1.0≦m≦3.6, 0.001≦n≦0.2, and 0.00001≦z≦0.1.
US09200198B1 Inorganic phosphor and light emitting devices comprising same
A phosphor is provided, comprising an inorganic luminescent compound represented by formula (1) having an emission spectrum resolvable into a first Gaussian emission curve and a second Gaussian emission curve; wherein the first Gaussian emission curve has a first Gaussian emission curve peak, P1; wherein the first Gaussian emission curve peak, P1, has a peak 1 height, HP1, a peak 1 peak wavelength, PλP1, and a peak 1 area, AP1; wherein the second Gaussian emission curve has a second Gaussian emission curve peak, P2; wherein the second Gaussian emission curve peak, P2 has a peak 2 height, HP2, a peak 2 peak wavelength, PλP2, a peak 2 full width at half max, FWHMP2, and a peak 2 area, AP2; wherein PλP1
US09200192B2 Compositions and methods for enhancement of production of liquid and gaseous hydrocarbons
A well treatment composition is well-designed for the simultaneous enhancement of the production of both liquid and gaseous hydrocarbons from the same reservoir on a non-selective basis. The well treatment composition includes a first surfactant and a second surfactant, wherein the second surfactant is selected from the group consisting of ethoxylated alkylene amines, ethoxylated alkyl amines, propoxylated alkylene amines, propoxylated alkyl amines, ethoxylated-propoxylated alkylene amines and ethoxylated-propoxylated alkyl amines. The well treatment composition also includes a first solvent, a second solvent and water. Methods for using the well treatment composition include the steps of emplacing the well treatment composition into wells having high and low gas-to-oil ratios.
US09200190B2 Methods relating to predicting subterranean formation damage from deformable additives
Predicting subterranean formation damages from deformable additives in treatment fluids may include measuring exponential shear values for samples comprising a base fluid and at least one deformable additive. Then the relative pore plugging propensity of the deformable additives may be determined by comparing the exponential shear values or rheological values derived therefrom from either two or more deformable additives to each other or from one or more deformable additives to a pore plugging propensity scale.
US09200188B2 Ester for refrigerator oils and method for producing same
The present invention relates to an ester for refrigerator oils having less remaining by-products in the ester and having high thermal stability, and a method for producing the ester for refrigerator oils. The ester for refrigerator oils is obtained by treating a crude ester product, which is obtained by reacting a neopentyl polyol having a carbon number of 5 to 10 with an aliphatic carboxylic acid having a carbon number of 4 to 12, with one or more kinds of salts selected from the group consisting of sulfite, bisulfite, and pyrosulfite.
US09200186B2 Activatable adhesive, labels, and related methods
An activatable adhesive that is formulated to readily absorb energy from a given radiation source, an activatable adhesive label that incorporates such an activatable adhesive, a system for activating such labels, and related methods and uses are described. The activatable adhesive includes a plasticizer, a tackifier, and an adhesive base polymer that includes butyl acrylate, styrene, methyl methacrylate, methacrylic acid, and acrylic acid.
US09200182B2 Paint coat-protecting removable pressure-sensitive adhesive sheet
The present invention is a paint coat-protecting removable pressure-sensitive adhesive sheet comprising a base sheet, and a pressure-sensitive adhesive layer that is provided on the base sheet, the pressure-sensitive adhesive layer being formed of an emulsion pressure-sensitive adhesive composition that includes an emulsion of an ethylene-vinyl carboxylate copolymer as a main component. The present invention provides a paint coat-protecting removable pressure-sensitive adhesive sheet that does not cause swelling, whitening, and adhesive transfer even when the pressure-sensitive adhesive sheet is attached to the surface of a paint coat that has not been sufficiently dried (i.e., contains a small amount of solvent) or has not been sufficiently cured after drying, and removed from the paint coat.
US09200172B2 Phthalocyanine/ polymer nanocomposite ink for optoelectonics
Aspects describe phthalocyanine (Pc) molecules with peripheral modifications of its core (e.g., alkyl substituents) so that the Pc can self assemble, for example under vacuum sublimation, and form nanocrystals of a size on the order of nanometers. The Pc nanocrystals can be prepared, for example, by a simple vapor deposition method. Further aspects describe a polymer composite ink based Pc nanocrystals in a polymer matrix, which can be formed, for example, under a solution process approach. For example, the polymer matrix can be a different p-type conjugated polymer from the Pc nanocrystals, which are inherently p-type semiconductors. This can increase the film formation ability and charge transport properties of the polymer composite ink. The polymer composite ink can be utilized, for example, in the fabrication of optoelectronic devices, such as photovoltaic devices and/or thin film transistors. The optoelectronic devices can exhibit high power conversion efficiency (PCE), for example 6-7 percent.
US09200171B2 AZO compound and ink containing the compound
An object of the present invention is to provide an ink containing an azo compound which is excellent in solubility in a solvent and has a high extinction coefficient. The present invention relates to an ink comprising a solvent having a relative permittivity of 3 or less, as measured at a frequency of 1 kHz and at 22° C. and having a solubility in water of 20 mg/L or less at 25° C. and a specific azo compound.
US09200170B2 Ink jet ink comprising encapsulated pigment dispersions with minimal free polymer
The present disclosure provides an inkjet ink comprising an aqueous vehicle and an encapsulated pigment dispersion. A process for encapsulating pigment dispersions is provided where a pigment is dispersed with a polymeric dispersant in an aqueous solvent system. The free polymer dispersant in the pigment dispersion is limited to less than 0.12 grams per gram of pigment. This dispersed pigment is then encapsulated by adding acrylate monomers and optionally acrylic and vinyl monomers and polymerizing. In the encapsulated pigment dispersion the weight ratio of final free polymer to polymer found to the final encapsulated pigment is less than 0.9. The free polymer dispersant is measured by a centrifugation method and the final free polymer is measured by a density gradient centrifugation method. Such encapsulated pigment dispersions may be used in inkjet inks and are stable to heat, aging test conditions, and solvent challenges. Prints from these inks have better durability.
US09200169B2 Inkjet recording ink, ink cartridge, and inkjet recording method
An inkjet recording ink, including: water; a wetting agent; a colorant; and polymer microparticles, wherein the polymer microparticles are each a copolymer of a monomer represented by the following structural formula (1) or the following general formula (2), a monomer represented by the following general formula (3), and a macromonomer represented by the following general formula (4): where “R1” is an alkyl group having 1 to 4 carbon atoms, where “Rs” are independently an alkyl group having 1 to 4 carbon atoms, where “l” is the number of repeating units, and an integer of 1 to 100.
US09200168B2 Metal surface treatment aqueous solution and method for inhibiting whiskers on a metal surface
A tin or tin alloy plating film surface treatment aqueous solution that can reduce whiskers on the surface of a tin or tin alloy plating film, and can provide a favorable tin or tin alloy plating film using a simple method for tin or tin alloy plating films that are used on electronic components.
US09200164B2 Coating system
The present patent application relates to a novel coating system, coated compositions with such a coating system, as well as to the use of such compositions in the production food, feed, dietary supplements and/or pharmaceutical products, as well as to food, feed, dietary supplements and/or pharmaceutical products comprising such compositions.
US09200161B2 Bio-oil formulation as an asphalt substitute
A bio-oil formulation, useful as an asphalt binder substitute in pavement and roofing shingles, includes bio-oil and a polymer additive. The bio-oil binder can include an asphalt additive. The bio-oil binder can be emulsified with water and a surfactant for use as a weatherproofing sealant or as an adhesive. A method for making the bio-oil binder is disclosed.
US09200158B2 Elastomeric compositions and their use in articles
A dynamically vulcanized alloy contains at least one isobutylene-containing elastomer, at least one thermoplastic resin, and an anhydride functionalized oligomer grafted to the thermoplastic resin. In the alloy, the elastomer is present as a dispersed phase of small vulcanized or partially vulcanized particles in a continuous phase of the thermoplastic resin and the alloy is substantially absent of any sulfonamides.
US09200155B2 Water redispersible epoxy polymer powder and method for making the same
An aqueous dispersion of epoxy resin and a redispersible epoxy polymer powder contains particles of 50-90 weight-percent epoxy resin with 10-50 weight-percent alkali soluble shell around the particles and 2-25 weight-percent dispersing aid, with weight-percent based on total combined weight of epoxy resin, alkali soluble polymer shell and dispersing aid.
US09200146B2 Addition-crosslinking silicone composition with low compression set
Polyorganosiloxane compositions which are crosslinkable by means of hydrosilylation have improved compression set due to the incorporation of 3-amino-1,2,4-triazole-5-thiol bonded to silica.
US09200142B2 Thermoplastic polymer composition
The invention provides a compound conforming to the structure of Formula (C) The invention also provides a thermoplastic polymer composition comprising a polyolefin polymer and a compound conforming to the structure of Formula (C) as a nucleating agent.
US09200138B2 Method for preparing ester plasticizer and ester plasticizer prepared by the same
Disclosed are a method for preparing an ester plasticizer and an ester plasticizer prepared by the method. More specifically, disclosed are a method for preparing an ester plasticizer comprising trans-esterifying 100 parts by weight of dioctyl terephthalate with 0.1 to 89.9 parts by weight of butyl alcohol, and an ester plasticizer prepared by the method.Advantageously, provided are a novel method for preparing an ester plasticizer and an ester plasticizer with superior physical properties, prepared by the method.
US09200136B2 Chlorine dioxide resistant polyethylene pipes, their preparation and use
The present invention deals with the use of pipes made of cross-linked polyethylene for transporting water containing chlorine dioxide. Cross-linked polyethylene has a resistance of more than 3500 hours against water treated with chlorine dioxide when tested according to a modified method of ASTM F2263-03. Especially, the pipes made of cross-linked polyethylene can be used for transporting drinking water which had been disinfected by using chlorine dioxide.
US09200132B2 Process for the production of spray polyurethane elastomers and the elastomers produced by this process
Polyurethane elastomers having solids contents greater than 40% by weight are produced from a sprayable polyurethane-forming system composed of an isocyanate component and an isocyanate-reactive component. The isocyanate component has a solids content of from 40 to 80 wt. %, based on total weight of isocyanate component and is made up of at least one aromatic polyisocyanate having an NCO content of from 24 to 33%, a functionality of from 2 to 3 and at least one solid filler. The isocyanate-reactive component has a solids content of from 40 to 80 wt. %, based on total weight of the isocyanate-reactive component and is composed of at least one polyether polyol having a hydroxyl number of from 25 to 40 and a functionality of from 2 to 4, and at least one solid filler.
US09200131B2 Organic acid-modified polymers for golf ball constructions and methods relating thereto
The invention is directed to a method of making a neutralized polymer composition (“NPC”) suitable for a golf ball component comprising the steps of: providing an acid copolymer composition; soaking the acid copolymer composition in an organic acid to form a soaked polymeric composition wherein substantially all of the organic acid is absorbed within the acid copolymer composition; providing a cation source in an amount sufficient to neutralize the acid copolymer and organic acid; and melt processing the soaked polymeric composition and cation source to form a neutralized polymer composition. The invention also relates to a method of making a golf ball incorporating the NPC made according to the inventive method and to the resulting golf ball.
US09200129B2 Process for preparing foamable polymer compositions, process for preparing foamed polymer compositions therefrom, foamed polymer compositions and adhesive tape therewith
The invention relates to a process for preparing a foamed polymer composition using expandable hollow microbeads, wherein, in a first process strand, first starting materials, which include at least the predominant portion of the polymer or polymers to be used, are mixed and degassed to give a premix, whereafter this premix is subjected to a pressure such that the pairing of this pressure with the temperature of the premix is below the pressure and temperature pairing that is critical for triggering the expansion of the hollow microbeads to be used, wherein, in a second process strand, second starting materials, including the hollow microbeads to be used, are degassed, whereafter the second starting materials treated in the second process strand are added to the premix prepared in the first process strand, whereafter the second starting materials are mixed with the premix.
US09200125B2 Composite material with polyamide particles
Pre-impregnated composite material (prepreg) is provided that can be cured/molded to form composite parts having high compression strength under hot and wet conditions, as well as, high damage tolerance and interlaminar fracture toughness. The matrix resin includes a thermoplastic particle component that includes polyamide particles which are composed of the polymeric condensation product of a methyl derivative of bis(4-aminocyclohexyl)methane and an aliphatic dicarboxylic acid.
US09200123B2 Production method of thermoplastic resin composition, molded body, and light emission body
Disclosed is a production method of a thermoplastic resin composition comprising: compounding 0.001 to 50 parts by mass of a metal complex (B) with respect to 100 parts by mass of a thermoplastic resin (A), and kneading it under a condition of a kneading temperature of 225 to 300° C. and of a kneading time of 0.5 to 20 minutes, wherein a metal of the metal complex (B) is a metal except for zinc; a molded body obtained by molding the thermoplastic resin composition which is obtained by the production method; and a light emission body using the molded body.
US09200121B2 Thermosetting poly(siloxane-diphenylbutadiyne) with readily tunable glass transition temperature and high thermal stability
A poly(siloxane-diphenylbutadiyne) exhibiting thermosetting properties, a highly tunable glass transition temperature (Tg), and very high thermal and thermo-oxidative stability. In one embodiment, the poly(siloxane-diphenylbutadiyne) is a poly(tetrasiloxane-diphenylbutadiyne). The present subject matter also relates to a method of synthesizing the poly(tetrasiloxane-diphenylbutadiyne).
US09200120B2 Blanket materials for indirect printing methods
An intermediate transfer member containing a layer of a siloxyfluorocarbon networked polymer. A method of preparing an intermediate transfer member including mixing a coating solution containing siloxyfluorocarbon precursor materials; applying the coating solution as a sol on a substrate; curing the coating solution on the substrate to form an intermediate transfer member containing a layer of a siloxyfluorocarbon networked polymer. The surface free energy of the intermediate transfer member may be from about 10 mN/m to about 40 mN/m. A method of printing an image to a substrate includes applying an inkjet ink to an intermediate transfer member containing a layer of a siloxyflurocarbon networked polymer; spreading the ink onto the intermediate transfer member; inducing a property change of the ink; and transferring the ink to a substrate.
US09200115B2 Process for continuously preparing copolyamides from lactams and salts of diamines and dicarboxylic acids
A process for continuously preparing copolyamides from lactams and salts of diamines and dicarboxylic acids, in which lactams together with salts of diamines and dicarboxylic acids are passed from the top downward through a vertical polymerization tube at polyamide-forming temperatures, which comprises a) intensively mixing an aqueous solution of lactams with salts of diamines and dicarboxylic acids under elevated pressure which is greater than the vapor pressure of the mixture which arises in a mixing apparatus at a temperature of from 80 to 300° C., b) feeding the mixture thus obtained to a heated helical tube evaporator in which a liquid phase and a vapor phase form at a temperature of from 140 to 300° C., a stream of water vapor and/or inert gas also being introduced into the mixture if appropriate upstream of the helical tube, c) removing the vapor phase formed in stage b) from the liquid phase and separating it in a column into water vapor and into organic components comprising diamines, dicarboxylic acids and lactams, and recycling the organic components into the polymerization, d) passing the liquid phase from the helical tube of stage b) mixed with the organic components of stage c) from the top downward through a vertical polymerization tube at polyamide-forming temperatures to obtain a copolyamide.
US09200114B2 Random pentapolymer for treatment of autoimmune diseases
The present invention relates to a synthetic polypeptide which is a random linear pentapolymer comprising alanine, glutamic acid, lysine, tyrosine and phenylalanine and use thereof in treating autoimmune diseases, in particular multiple sclerosis.
US09200111B2 Thermoplastic resin, resin composition, and molding of high thermal conductivity
The thermoplastic resin in accordance with the present invention includes a unit (A) by 25 mol % to 60 mol %, the unit (A) having a biphenyl group, a linear unit (e.g., a linear aliphatic hydrocarbon chain) (B) by 25 mol % to 60 mol %, and a unit (C) by 1 mol % to 25 mol %, the unit (C) having a substituent selected from the group consisting of non-fused aromatic groups, fused aromatic groups, heterocyclic groups, alicyclic groups, and alicyclic heterocyclic groups, each of which has an effect of folding a main chain.
US09200105B2 Naphthalene formaldehyde resin, deacetalized naphthalene formaldehyde resin, and modified naphthalene formaldehyde resin
Provided are a naphthalene formaldehyde resin obtained by reacting a compound (A) represented by formula (1) and formaldehyde (B) in a molar ratio, (A):(B), of 1:1 to 1:20 in the presence of an acidic catalyst, and a deacetalized naphthalene formaldehyde resin and a modified naphthalene formaldehyde resin derived therefrom.
US09200104B2 Polymer
The application provides a method of producing a comb polymer comprising the steps of: (a) Providing: (i) a plurality of monomers which are linear, branched or star-shaped, substituted or non-substituted, and have an olefinically unsaturated moiety, the olefinically unsaturated moiety being capable of undergoing addition polymerisation; (ii) an initiator compound; the initiator compound comprising a homolytically cleavable bond. (iii) a catalyst capable of catalysing the polymerisation of the monomer; and (b) Causing the catalyst to catalyse, in combination with the initiator, the polymerisation of a plurality of the monomers to produce the comb polymer. Catalysts and polymers obtainable by the process are also provided.Preferably, the comb polymer is capable of binding proteins and may be produced from monomers which are alkoxy polyethers, such as poly(alkyleneglycol) or polytetrahydrofuran.
US09200103B2 Functionalized olefin polymers, compositions and articles prepared therefrom, and methods for making the same
In one aspect the invention provides a melt process for preparing a functionalized olefin multiblock interpolymer, said process comprising grafting onto the backbone of the olefin multiblock interpolymer at least one compound comprising at least one “amine-reactive” group to form a grafted olefin multiblock interpolymer, and reacting a primary-secondary diamine or an alkanolamine with the grafted olefin multiblock interpolymer, without the isolation of the grated olefin multiblock interpolymer.
US09200098B2 Radiation-sensitive composition and compound
A radiation-sensitive composition includes a photoacid generator shown by a general formula (0-1a). Each of R0 individually represents a substituted or unsubstituted organic group which includes a carbon atom, a hydrogen atom, and an oxygen atom, and which includes at least one ester bond, and M+ represents a monovalent onium cation. A compound is shown by a general formula (0). R represents a substituted or unsubstituted organic group which includes a carbon atom, a hydrogen atom, and an oxygen atom, and which includes at least one ester bond, and M+ represents a monovalent onium cation.
US09200096B2 Polyvinyl ether based high performance synthetic fluids prepared using cationic polymerization
The synthesis of high performance polyvinyl ether (PVE) synthetic fluids using a Lewis acid based cationic polymerization process is disclosed. The polyvinyl ether fluid have repeating vinyl ether units of the general formula —[CH2—CH (O—R)]n, wherein R is comprised of a branched or linear alkyl group having at least 4 carbon atoms and n is a whole number representing the average number of repeating units in the polyvinyl ether. The resulting PVE fluids exhibit excellent lubricant properties, similar to poly-alpha olefins (PAOs), but the PVE fluids have the benefit of higher polarity than PAOs and thus have better solubility and dispersity of polar additives.
US09200094B2 Catalyst components for the polymerization of olefins
The present invention relates to catalysts component for the polymerization of ethylene and its mixtures with olefins CH2═CHR, wherein R is an alkyl, cycloalkyl or aryl radical having 1-12 carbon atoms, comprising Ti, Mg, halogen, and electron donor belonging to 1,2-diethers as internal electron donor compound. The catalyst of the invention is suitably used in (co)polymerization processes of ethylene to prepare (co)polymers having narrow Molecular Weight Distribution (MWD) and high bulk density.
US09200090B2 Galactose-pronged polysaccharides in a formulation for antifibrotic therapies
Methods and compositions for reducing fibrosis and cirrhosis are provided in which an effective dose of an admixture of a polysaccharide compound and, for example, a compound selected from the group consisting of antibodies specific to intracellular or cell-surface: (i) beta-PDGF receptors; (ii) synaptophysin; (iii) zvegf3; (iv) CCR1 receptors; (v) connective tissue growth factor; (vi) alpha 1-smooth muscle actin; (vii) matrix metalloproteinases MMP 2 and MMP9; (viii) matrix metalloproteinase inhibitors TIMP1 and TMP2; (ix) integrins; (x) TFG-β1; (xi) endothelin receptor antagonists; and (xii) collagen synthesis and degradation modulating compounds; (xiii) actin synthesis and degradation modulating compounds; and (xiv) tyrosine kinases is administered to an animal in order to treat fibrosis.
US09200089B2 Self-repairing cyclic oxide-substituted chitosan polyurethane networks
Thermosetting polymeric compositions, such as polyurethane compositions, and related methods are provided. The invention relates to coating and polymer compositions and related methods derived from a biodegradable natural polysaccharide compound such as chitosan, pectin, heparin, and combinations thereof reacted to a cyclic oxide compound, such as an oxetane, oxolane or oxepane compound. The compositions and methods of the present invention exhibit self-repairing properties upon exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light. The compositions and methods of the present invention can be used in many coating applications, such as the transportation, packaging, fashion, and biomedical industries.
US09200083B2 Methods of treating diabetes using therapeutic agents comprising a GLP-1 receptor agonist and elastin-like peptides
The present invention provides therapeutic agents and compositions comprising elastin-like peptides (ELPs) and therapeutic proteins. In some embodiments, the therapeutic protein is a GLP-1 receptor agonist, insulin, or Factor VII/VIIa, including functional analogs. The present invention further provides encoding polynucleotides, as well as methods of making and using the therapeutic agents. The therapeutic agents have improvements in relation to their use as therapeutics, including, inter alia, one or more of half-life, clearance and/or persistance in the body, solubility, and bioavailability.
US09200079B2 Fc variants with altered binding to FcRn
The present application relates to optimized IgG immunoglobulin engineering methods for their generation, and their application, particularly for therapeutic purposes.
US09200078B2 Antibodies against prostate-specific stem cell antigen and use thereof
The invention relates to recombinant antibodies which bind to prostate-specific stem cell antigen (PSCA). The antibody of the invention comprises complementarity-determining regions (CDR) having the following amino acid sequences: CDR of the variable region of the light chain: CDR1 SEQ ID No. 1, CDR2 SEQ ID No. 2, CDR3 SEQ ID No. 3, and CDR of the variable region of the heavy chain: CDR1 SEQ ID No. 4, CDR2 SEQ ID No. 5, CDR3 SEQ ID No. 6. The invention also embraces the use of the antibodies of the invention as medicinal products, especially for the treatment of tumor diseases, or as a diagnostic agent. The antibodies are suitable for use in the areas of medicine, pharmacy and biomedical research.
US09200076B2 Use of FSH receptor ligands for diagnosis and therapy of cancer
The present invention relates to diagnostic imaging and in particular to the diagnostic imaging and therapy of cancer by means of compositions which specifically target the FSH Receptor expressed by tumor endothelial cells and circulating blood cells.
US09200075B2 Nucleic acids encoding antibodies that bind colony stimulating factor 1 receptor (CSF1R)
Antibodies that bind CSF1R are provided. Antibody heavy chains and light chains that are capable of forming antibodies that bind CSF1R are also provided. Polynucleotides encoding antibodies to CSF1R are provided. Polynucleotides encoding antibody heavy chains and lights chains are also provided. Methods of treatment using antibodies to CSF1R are provided. Such methods include, but are not limited to, methods of treating rheumatoid arthritis, bone loss, and multiple sclerosis.