Document Document Title
US09216744B2 Power train controller and associated memory device
A power train subsystem for a motorized vehicle and methods of programming such power train controllers of the power train subsystem are disclosed. The power train subsystem may include a power train component, a controller, and a memory device. The controller may be coupled to the power train component to control operation of the power train component. The memory device may include boot code, application software, standard calibration parameters, and custom calibration parameters. The boot code provides an environment upon which the application software executes per the standard calibration parameters and custom calibration parameters. The standard calibration provides parameters which configure the controller for a range of vehicular applications. The custom calibration parameters provide parameters which configure the controller for a particular vehicular application in the range of vehicular applications.
US09216743B2 Motor vehicle having a driver assistance device and method for operating a motor vehicle
A driver assistance device in a motor vehicle can completely or partially independently guide the motor vehicle. The driver assistance device has an operating device having a grip element which is arranged on a center console of the motor vehicle and on which a plurality of operating elements are arranged. To improve clarity, the grip element can be moved with respect to an interior trim of the motor vehicle by an actuator of the operating device. A control device of the driver assistance device is designed to adjust a position of the grip element with respect to the interior trim by controlling the actuator on the basis of the currently active assistance mode.
US09216742B2 Vehicle evaluation method and vehicle evaluation apparatus
The vehicle evaluation method and vehicle evaluation apparatus can appropriately and quantitatively evaluate the sense of lateral oscillation of a vehicle. The method and apparatus measure muscle activity waveforms of a pair of left and right muscles in at least one type of skeletal muscle involved in maintaining a posture of a head of an occupant of the vehicle driven under predetermined driving conditions, calculate an amount of simultaneous activity that expresses characteristics of the muscle activity waveforms and evaluate a sense of lateral oscillation of the vehicle based on the amount of simultaneous activity.
US09216739B2 Vehicle travel control apparatus
A vehicle travel control apparatus that can stop a subject vehicle at an optimum position, and at a subsequent restart time, suitably avoid an obstacle without imposing a burden on a driver is provided.The vehicle travel control apparatus allows a subject vehicle to travel on the basis of a predetermined set speed, controls the travel of the subject vehicle according to a situation around the subject vehicle, calculates a subject vehicle travel side virtual lane on which the subject vehicle can travel on a subject vehicle travel side, an oncoming vehicle travel side virtual lane on which the subject vehicle can travel on an oncoming vehicle travel side, and a residual road width of a subject vehicle travel road on the basis of a road width, the subject vehicle travel side virtual lane, and the oncoming vehicle travel side virtual lane, and stops, when a point at which the calculated residual road width is smaller than a given value is present, the travel of the subject vehicle at a position in front of the point.
US09216734B2 Control device
A control device for a vehicle. A shift assist control section executes shift assist control of increasing a rotational speed of an input-side rotating member of the speed change mechanism. A possibility determining section that determines whether or not the rotating electrical machine can output required input torque. A mode selecting section that selects one shift mode from a first shift mode and a second shift mode that is different from the first shift mode in at least one of a condition for starting the downshift and processing. A torque compensating section that, if it is determined that the rotating electrical machine cannot output the required input torque, compensates for a shortfall in the required input torque in the shift assist control by using at least one of output torque of the internal combustion engine and torque that is transferred by the shift engagement device according to the shift mode.
US09216733B2 Control device for hybrid vehicle
A control device for a hybrid vehicle is equipped with an engine, an electric motor, and a damper that is interposed in a motive power transmission path between the engine and the electric motor. The control device is equipped with a hysteresis mechanism and a controller. The hysteresis mechanism is provided in the damper, is configured to have a characteristic that a hysteresis torque that is generated due to a twist of the damper, which transmits a driving force from the electric motor toward the engine, in a negative direction is larger than a hysteresis torque that is generated due to a twist of the damper, which transmits a driving force from the engine toward the electric motor, in a positive direction, and is configured to reduce an engine rotational speed by the electric motor in stopping the engine. The controller is configured to cause a torque, of the electric motor to be output such that the damper assumes a state of being twisted in the negative direction when a torque in such a direction as to drive the engine is applied from the electric motor in stopping the engine.
US09216726B2 Vehicle and control method for vehicle
An ECU executes a program including the steps of: executing fuel-cut control when an IG OFF operation has been performed and when a vehicle is traveling; executing deceleration control when vehicle speed is equal to or higher than a threshold value; ending the deceleration control and permitting restart of an engine when the vehicle speed has become lower than the threshold value; and controlling a first MG and the engine when an IG ON operation has been performed.
US09216724B1 Brake maintenance indicator
A brake maintenance indication system having a first portion determines the brake cylinder pressure and a second portion that is configured to determine the intended brake cylinder pressure based on the difference between the brake pipe pressure and the emergency reservoir pressure. The intended brake cylinder pressure is preferably determined to be 2.5 times of the difference between the brake pipe pressure and the emergency reservoir pressure. In the event of brake cylinder over-pressurization or under-pressurization, an indicator is flagged, thus identifying the presence of a problem with the braking system.
US09216721B2 Method for brake control of a vehicle combination and brake control unit for a tractor vehicle
In a method for controlling the brakes of a vehicle combination having a tractor equipped with an electronically controlled brake system, at least one front axle and one rear axle, and a trailer having at least one trailer axle, in the event of a brake actuation, a deceleration setpoint value is ascertained and compared to a deceleration actual value, and a current brake-application energy reference value is ascertained therefrom. Brake-application energy setpoint values for the tractor and trailer are ascertained from the current brake-application energy reference value and brake-application energy levels for the tractor and trailer while using stored characteristic maps, which illustrate the dependencies of the brake-application energy levels on the brake-application energy reference value or on the axle load distribution of the tractor. The characteristic maps are obtained as a function of at least one pre-definable influencing factor. For this, a loading state of the tractor and/or of the trailer and/or the vehicle combination is ascertained.
US09216719B2 Parking lock control device for vehicle and control method
In a parking lock control device of a vehicle of the present invention, when a parking lock activation command is outputted, either one of parking lock mechanisms is activated. In this state, a movement of the vehicle is estimated or detected, and when the vehicle movement is a predetermined amount or more, the parking lock control device generates a torque that suppresses the vehicle movement by the motor connected to the other parking lock mechanism. Power consumption associated with the parking lock is then suppressed.
US09216715B2 Belt retractor
The invention relates to a belt retractor (10) for a seatbelt, comprising a belt reel (20) for winding up and unwinding the seatbelt, and a lockable locking base (30) which is connected to the belt reel (20) and, before locking, is rotated together with the belt reel (20) and, after locking, the rotational movement of said locking base is blocked, wherein, in the event of locking of the locking base (30) for limiting the belt force, the locking base (30) and the belt reel (20) can rotate relative to each other. According to the invention, the belt retractor has a band (70) which, in the event of a relative rotation between belt reel and locking base, is pulled into a gap (110), said gap (110) being defined by at least one deformable element (150, 200) which is deformed by the band (70) pulled into the gap (110).
US09216712B1 Airbag apparatus
An airbag apparatus in which the deployment pressure is adjustable. A ring portion of the airbag apparatus is formed on a first tether coupled to a front surface of an airbag, and a second tether coupled to a rear surface of the airbag penetrates the ring portion and is coupled to a first vent rate adjusting member and a second vent rate adjusting member.
US09216710B2 Airbag inflator mounting apparatus, methods, and systems
Methods, apparatus, and systems for coupling an airbag inflator with a housing, such as an airbag module housing or an adapter housing configured to be coupled with an airbag module housing. In some implementations, a housing comprising an opening may be provided. An inflator comprising a collar may be positioned in the housing such that the collar of the inflator extends into, or in some cases through, the opening of the housing. The inflator may be fixedly coupled with the housing by engaging an exterior surface of the inflator collar with at least one engagement structure, such as a retainer clip or crimp formed in a collar sleeve of the housing.
US09216707B2 Motor generator unit with multiplexed output
A vehicle includes an engine, a transmission connected to the engine, an auxiliary electrical load, and an electrical system. The electrical system includes a high-voltage energy storage system (HV-ESS), an auxiliary/low-voltage energy storage system (LV-ESS) connected to the load, a full-bridge active rectifier/inverter, a semi-active auxiliary rectifier, and a motor generator unit (MGU) connected to the HV-ESS via the active rectifier/inverter, and to the LV-ESS via the semi-active auxiliary rectifier. A controller establishes a first operating mode in which the MGU is operated as a motor for restarting or assisting the engine via the active rectifier/inverter, and second operating mode in which the MGU operates as a generator and the semi-active rectifier provides an auxiliary DC output voltage to the LV-ESS and the load. Another vehicle has first and second switches in lieu of the semi-active rectifier, with the active rectifier connected to the HV-ESS and LV-ESS via different switches.
US09216705B2 Mounting device for aircraft supply systems
A mounting device for aircraft supply systems comprises a cross member and at least one support module including a body having a shape complementary to that of a cross member. The body includes a structure for securing an aircraft supply system, an opening, and a pin, wherein the opening forms a guide that is able to receive a portion of the pin. The cross member includes grooves that are regularly spaced apart in the direction of elongation of said cross member. The pin has a shape complementary to that of the grooves and has a lip transverse to the direction of elongation of the pin. The support module is anchored to the cross member by the pin being inserted into the opening, the pin engaging with one of the grooves, as far as an anchoring position in which the lip is in contact with the support module.
US09216704B2 Elastically averaged strap systems and methods
In one aspect, an elastic averaging strap system for securing an object to a component having an aperture is provided. The system includes a strap having a first end and a second end. The strap second end couples to the strap first end such that the strap forms a loop around the object to retain the object therein. An alignment member extends from the first end, and the alignment member is an elastically deformable material such that when the alignment member is inserted into the component aperture, the alignment member elastically deforms to an elastically averaged final configuration to facilitate positioning the object in a desired orientation relative to the component.
US09216703B2 Arrangement for securing an inner trim panel to a vehicle substrate
An arrangement for securing an inner panel to a vehicle substrate uses a securing clip mounted to a clip housing in an elongate hole with a closed end and an open end. The inner diameter of a securing region in the elongate hole is greater than the diameter of the shaft of the securing clip, allowing lateral shifting of the clip so that its shaft can realign during insertion into a corresponding mating hole in the substrate. The securing region of the elongate hole includes centering members constructed in such a manner that an inserted securing clip is retained in a centered position. Consequently, the tolerance compensation function of the clips is optimized.
US09216702B1 Locking seam alignment guide for interior trim component cover
A locking seam alignment guide may be utilized for attaching a fabric cover to a substrate to form an interior trim component in a vehicle passenger compartment. An elongate ribbon-like member has a longitudinal stitching flange and a longitudinal locking key depending from the stitching flange along a midline thereof. The longitudinal locking key has one of a cylindrical shape, and a triangular shape. The longitudinal stitching flange is one of a flange extending along one side of the midline, and a flange extending along both sides of the midline. The locking seam alignment guide can be stitched to a fabric cover and seated in a complementary keyway to hold the fabric cover to the substrate.
US09216698B2 Auxiliary storage system
An auxiliary storage system for attachment to a vehicle, including a storage container and a hitch assembly for releasably connecting the storage container and the vehicle together. The hitch assembly includes a central body, a first connection subassembly for attaching the central body and the vehicle together, and a second connection subassembly connectable with the storage container and movable relative to the central body, for attaching the central body and the storage container together. When the second connection subassembly is connected with the storage container, the storage container is movable thereby between a raised position, in which the storage container is located above a ground surface, and a lowered position, in which the storage container is located on the ground surface.
US09216695B2 Small storage pockets for a vehicle seat assembly
A vehicle seat assembly includes a seat portion disposed adjacent to a seat back having a front surface, a back surface, an inboard surface, and an outboard surface. A side pocket extends across the inboard surface and terminates at a forward edge proximate the front surface at a first end and terminates at a rearward edge proximate the back surface at a second end. An upper back pocket disposed is on an upper back surface of the seat back and a lower back pocket disposed on a lower back surface of the seat back.
US09216693B2 Fatigue-resistant fingers for cup holder
A container holder includes a housing that defines a cavity therein. A liner lines the cavity of the housing and includes a resilient portion that is laterally movable responsive to insertion of a container into the cavity, to accommodate and support containers of different sizes. At least one spring finger extends adjacent the resilient portion and opposes the lateral movement of the resilient portion.
US09216691B2 Exterior mirror with spotter mirror
A rearview mirror reflective element assembly for an exterior mirror assembly of a vehicle includes a mirror reflective element having a principal mirror and an auxiliary wide angle spotter mirror. A curved recess is established at a spotter portion of a rear surface of a glass substrate of the mirror reflective element. A spotter mirror reflector coating is established at at least a portion of the curved recess to establish the auxiliary wide angle spotter mirror. A principal mirror reflector coating is established at a surface of the mirror reflective element to establish the principal mirror. A portion of the curved recess is substantially not coated with the spotter mirror reflector coating or a portion of the spotter mirror reflector coating is at least partially hidden from view of a person viewing the front of the mirror reflective element by a coating of the mirror reflective element.
US09216688B2 System and method for blindzone object detection
Various embodiments are described herein for a system and method for blindzone obstacle detection for a host vehicle. The system comprises a sensor array configured to generate measurement data for a blindzone of the host vehicle; a blindzone object detector having at least two detectors that are coupled to the sensor array to process the measurement data and generate outputs which are then combined to form a final detection value that is used to detect an object in the blindzone of the host vehicle. An indicator can also be coupled to the blindzone object detector to generate an indication of object detection in the blindzone.
US09216687B2 Apparatus, method and article for vehicle turn signals
A vehicle turn signal system causes a turn signal to turn off when a turn is completed or nearly completed based on the orientation of the vehicle changing to turn to a certain degree in a direction indicated by the turn signal. Current heading, position, location and/or or other such information is electronically received from a compass or other device by a turn signal switch controller. When the vehicle has changed direction from the direction the vehicle was traveling at the time associated with when the turn signal was turned on, a signal is sent to turn off the turn signal and reset the manual turn signal button or lever.
US09216685B2 Power supply unit control device for internal combustion engine driven vehicle and internal combustion engine driven vehicle equipped with power supply unit control device
There are provided a power supply unit control device for an internal combustion engine driven vehicle provided with a lamp driving switch for turning lamp-driving current supplied to a vehicle headlamp from a battery charged by the output of an AC generator driven by an internal combustion engine and with a conducting control unit for controlling the lamp driving switch. The conducting control unit normally performs on/off control of the lamp driving switch at a normal duty ratio, the normal duty ratio being an on/off duty ratio for the lamp driving switch at which lamp-driving current can be kept at a value not impeding the charging of the battery, and, when the internal combustion engine decelerates, performs engine deceleration lamp conducting control, in which on/off control of the lamp driving switch at the normal duty ratio is interrupted and the lamp driving switch is controlled so that lamp-driving current necessary to suppress reductions in the brightness of the headlamp is sent to the headlamp, only for a limited length of time.
US09216683B2 Vehicle slide out cover
A cover assembly for the slide out portion of a recreational vehicle or camper is provided, which is adapted to prevent water and debris from collecting along the upper surface of the slide out portion when extended. The assembly comprises a frame affixed to the vehicle and positioned above the slide out portion thereof. The frame forms a clevis that supports a hingedly attached cover. The cover extends downward and over the slide out portion when the slide out portion is retracted. When extended, the slide out portion forces the cover outward and upward. The cover is sized to rest against the slide out portion and engages its outer, upper edge when fully extended. The cover forms a slanted surface when extended, and then retracts to a substantially vertical state when retracted. A lock secures the cover to the frame between uses and while the vehicle is in motion.
US09216682B2 Vehicle towing and recovery system
Apparatus and methods for towing and recovery of an automotive vehicle, for example in situations where an obstacle positioned between the tow truck and the recovered vehicle must be cleared in order for the recovery to be successful, include a head unit held securely to the tow truck, an automotive ski placed into secure contact with a recovered vehicle, and a lift platform used in combination with a conventional wheel lift of a tow truck.
US09216681B1 Grain cart with folding auger
A grain cart and foldable auger assembly having an upper auger assembly portion with a discharge portion, a lower auger assembly portion with an intake portion, and a compound angle joint that allows the upper auger assembly portion to be moved between operating and transport positions. When in an operating position, the upper auger portion and the lower auger portion are offset from each other by an operating offset angle. When in a transport position, the upper auger assembly portion is offset from the lower auger assembly portion by a transport offset angle such that the upper auger assembly portions folded across the front of the grain cart in a non-obstructive and non-protruding manner.
US09216673B2 Low profile seat position adjustment system
A seat position adjustment assembly including an anchor plate from which a plurality of slide bearings extend slidably received in guide slots formed in a slide plate enabling seat position adjustment and which can also function as a seat mount. Each bearing includes a slide bearing having a slide plate receiving channel and a retainer engagement channel receiving a keeper disposed between the anchor and slide plates anchoring the slide bearing to the anchor plate. Each keeper releasably engages the slide bearing, can straddle the bearing, can function as a spacer spacing the slide plate from the anchor plate, and can function as an upholstery retainer clip that holds part of an outer cover against the anchor plate. A seat latch arrangement can be disposed between the anchor and slide plates releasably retaining a seat removably coupled by the slide bearings to the slide plate in a desired seat position.
US09216671B2 Vehicle seat flip-up mechanism and vehicle seat
Provided is a vehicle seat flip-up mechanism that may be stably fixed to a vehicle body floor and may stably support an occupant load. In a vehicle seat flip-up mechanism that is provided to switch a posture of a seat cushion between a normal sitting posture and a stowed posture where the seat cushion is stowed while being inclined forward, the vehicle seat flip-up mechanism includes: links that extend in the front to back direction while being separated from each other in the seat width direction; a mounting bracket that is attached to the ends of the links and supports a seat cushion; a connection member that is installed in the mounting bracket; a support mechanism that rotatably supports the links; and mounting plates that are disposed below the support mechanism and are locked to the vehicle body floor, in which the mounting plate extends rearward relative to the link.
US09216666B2 Seat rail for a motor vehicle seat
The invention relates to a seat rail for a motor vehicle seat, consisting of a lower rail and an upper rail shiftably mounted thereon, with at least one attachment part of the upper rail fabricated of sheet metal for fixing a seat or a safety belt. At least one marginal edge of the attachment part is blunted and solidified by an embossment.
US09216663B2 Road surface self-adapting anti-slip anti-lock control method for electrically driven mine vehicle
A road surface self-adapting anti-slip anti-lock control method for an electrically driven mine vehicle comprises the following steps: if the vehicle is in drive mode, judging whether the speed of a designated driving wheel and the slip ratio of said wheel are greater than the corresponding preset value; exiting, if any of the two judging results is negative; if the speed of the vehicle is more than a first preset value, adjusting the torque of the designated driving wheel according to a high speed anti-slip policy, if not, according to a low speed anti-slip policy; judging whether the speed of the vehicle and the slip ratio of the designated drive wheel are more than the corresponding preset value in brake mode, thereby determining whether the anti-lock strategy is carried out. The control method is simple, is low in cost, and is convenient to debug on the mine vehicle.
US09216661B2 Fuel cell mixed power supply energy management method
This invention provides a kind of mixed power supply energy management method for fuel battery, including the following steps: initialization; control the output current of DCDC converting unit according to the measured energy storage device voltage and the actual current outputted by the DCDC converting unit, respond to the energy need resulting from load condition change and at the same time ensure the energy storage device to be in a best charge state; send a current setting instruction to the DCDC converting unit. This invention does not adopt the SOC calculation mode any more, the system no longer relies on the accuracy, reliability of current sensor; and this invention is strongly compatible, highly reliable, strongly practical and stable in output voltage, with the same system being applicable to more vehicles of different models (forklift) and parameter correction being unnecessary. By correcting battery capacity decrease in advance through setting up parameters in advance, the long-term reliability of the system is ensured.
US09216660B2 Electrically driven vehicle
An electrically driven vehicle includes a first electric motor, a second electric motor, a first power drive device, a second power drive device, a first heat sink, a second heat sink, a baffle member, a first air guide passage, and a second air guide passage. The baffle member closes a space defined between the first power drive device and the second power drive device at a first end and a second end of the space. The first air guide passage houses the first heat sink. The first air guide passage is provided between a first partition wall and the first power drive device. The second air guide passage houses the second heat sink. The second air guide passage is provided between the first partition wall and the second power drive device.
US09216654B2 Electric vehicle charging station with reconfigurable electrical installation options and methods
An electric vehicle charging apparatus is disclosed. The electric vehicle charging apparatus has a housing having a front cavity, rear cavity, and a separating wall having a common electrical passage, wherein the rear cavity is formed by sidewalls with one sidewall having a slot formed therein. A power cord passes through the common electrical passage in the separating wall, and the power cord is configurable to provide a number of electrical connection options, such as an “outside cord option” and a “rear mount option.” Methods of configuring the electric vehicle charging apparatus are provided, as are other aspects.
US09216652B2 Redox flow battery
A redox flow battery includes a positive electrode electrolyte and a negative electrode electrolyte, each of which includes a metal-ligand coordination complex, in which a metal of a metal-ligand coordination complex of the positive electrode electrolyte is different from a metal of a metal-ligand coordination complex of the negative electrode electrolyte. Due to use of different metals in the positive and negative electrode electrolytes, the redox flow battery has high energy density and high charge and discharge efficiency.
US09216648B2 Wheel driving device
Provided is a wheel driving device which drives a wheel by output rotation of a reduction device disposed on an inside in a radial direction of the wheel. The reduction device includes an output member connected to the wheel, and a pair of bearings supporting the output member. In the pair of bearings, the bearing on a side opposite to a vehicle body has a smaller outer diameter than that of the bearing on a vehicle body side. An injection passage member of a medium injected into the wheel may be disposed on an outside in a diameter direction of the bearing on the side opposite to the vehicle body.
US09216647B2 Vehicle fuel tank system for improved crashworthiness
A fuel tank system which has a revised mounting system and a revised location for the fuel system and fuel tanks to improve crashworthiness of the vehicle by reducing the occurrence of tank failure, fuel spillage, fire and/or explosion during and after a collision or similar event, while still providing a sufficient range for the vehicle. The fuel tanks are protected from damage from the side, bottom and between the tanks. The fuel tank mounting system also allows the energy associated with an event to be managed, such as by allowing the fuel tanks to be pushed or moved downwardly and/or laterally by the energy of the impact of a collision or similar event to a position in which the fuel tank is either out of the path of the impact or protected by the chassis or frame of the vehicle.
US09216644B2 Car provided with a ventilation channel
Car provided with: at least one radiator; a ventilation channel which houses on the inside the radiator; an aerodynamic duct, which extends between an inlet opening and an outlet opening obtained inside the ventilation channel between the inlet opening of the ventilation channel and the radiator; and a shutter, which is arranged in the area of the inlet opening of the aerodynamic duct and is mounted mobile between an engagement position, in which the shutter closes the inlet opening of the aerodynamic duct, and a disengagement position, in which the shutter leaves the inlet opening of the aerodynamic duct free.
US09216643B2 Stacking radiator aperture closure panels
An apparatus is disclosed for controlling air flow through a radiator. The apparatus includes a first track and a second track that receive a plurality of panels in a sliding relationship. Top and bottom engagement features of the panels engage each other to extend and retract the panels. The panels may be horizontally aligned in an intermediate or central portion of the apparatus that is disposed behind a bumper beam.
US09216639B2 Control device for vehicle
If the accelerator is on upon restarting a driving force source in travel mode by the time when the vehicle comes to a standstill after the driving force source is manually operated to stop while the vehicle is traveling, a control device for the vehicle implements first control in which the driving force output to the drive wheels is gradually increased. If the accelerator is on upon switching to the travel mode following restarting of the driving force source in the neutral mode and by the time the vehicle comes to a standstill after the driving force source is manually operated to stop while the vehicle is traveling, the control device implements second control in which the driving force output to the drive wheels is increased. The first control increases the driving force not as much as the second control increases the driving force.
US09216637B2 Electric vehicle
A utility vehicle is disclosed having an electric drive. The drivetrain is comprised of batteries, a motor, a transaxle driven by the motor, a rear differential driven by the transaxle, and a prop shaft which is driven by the transaxle and drives a front differential. The batteries are provided in two groups and are supported on the frame of the vehicle.
US09216636B2 Retractable covering device
There is provided a retractable covering device comprising a sheet for covering an object comprising sleeves for receiving cords, a plurality of cords having proximal ends secured to spools and distal ends secured to the sheet, a retraction device that can use a clutching system having a rotating member for winding the cords onto spools to retract the sheet and unwinding the cords from the spools to extract the sheet, wherein at least two sleeves are oriented essentially longitudinally in a proximal portion of the sheet and essentially in a medial lateral orientation in a distal portion of the sheet to prevent a lateral accumulation of the sheet at the retraction device during retraction. The spools can be fitted with one or more tangle prevention members (spool covers) to prevent tangling of cords during use of the retraction device.
US09216633B2 Close-out seal
A vehicle includes a rear window having an outside surface, an inside surface, and a lower edge that connects the outside surface and the inside surface. The vehicle also includes a rear decklid that is selectively movable with respect to the rear window between an open position and a closed position. The rear decklid and the rear window define a gap therebetween. The vehicle further includes a close-out seal that is operatively connected to the inside surface of the rear window and that contacts the rear decklid when the decklid is in the closed position. The close-out seal is configured such that the lower edge and outside surface of the rear window are unobstructed and uncontacted by the close-out seal.
US09216628B2 Apparatus and methods for vehicle idle management
An idle management system for a vehicle is disclosed herein. In various aspects, the idle management system includes an auxiliary power storage unit for the storage of electrical power. The idle management system includes an environmental package adapted to interconnect with a vehicle environmental package to regulate the climate within a vehicle compartment of a vehicle. The environmental package may be in electrical communication with the power storage unit to receive electrical power therefrom. A controller may be in communication with the power storage unit to derive electrical power therefrom, and the controller may be in communication with the environmental package to regulate the operation thereof. The idle management system may draw electrical power from the power storage unit to be operable with an engine in an engine OFF condition.
US09216626B2 Vehicle suspension system and method for increasing the roll rate of a vehicle
The present invention relates to a vehicle provided with a sprung mass, including a vehicle frame, at least one axle provided with first and second ends, and a suspension system provided with a mechanical springs and leveling springs. The mechanical springs connect the axle ends to the frame and are provided with a spring rate in a rebound direction that is greater than or substantially equal to a spring rate in a jounce direction. The leveling springs are configured to support the sprung mass at one or more sprung mass load points, whereby the first and second mechanical springs may become substantially unloaded by the sprung mass of the vehicle at the one or more sprung mass load points.
US09216624B1 Front suspension assembly and a suspension system for a vehicle
A front suspension assembly and a front suspension system for a vehicle are disclosed. A tire includes an outer surface having a contact patch center point being a point on a tire center axis. A first handling link and a first ride link are coupled to a wheel carrier above a first plane. A second handling link and a second ride link are coupled to the wheel carrier below the first plane. A handling axis intersects both of a first and second distal end of the first and second handling links respectively. A ride axis intersects both of a third and fourth distal end of the first and second ride links respectively. At least one of the first and second ride links is disposed offset from respective first and second handling links to minimize a lateral distance between the handling and ride axes along the ground plane.
US09216619B2 Air maintenance tire and valve assembly
An air maintenance tire and pump assembly includes a tire having a tire cavity, first and second sidewalls extending from first and second tire bead regions, respectively, to a tire tread region, an elongate substantially annular air passageway enclosed within a bending region of the sidewalls, the air passageway operatively closing and opening, segment by segment, as the bending region of the sidewalls passes adjacent a rolling tire footprint to pump air along the air passageway, an air inlet port assembly coupled to, and in air flow communication with, the air passageway at an inlet air passageway junction, the air inlet port assembly being operable to channel inlet air from outside of the tire into the air passageway, the air inlet port assembly including an inlet control valve and an outlet tee structure positioned 180° opposite the inlet control valve in the air passageway for moving air into the tire cavity, the inlet control valve including two inlet check valves for ensuring air flow only into, and not out of, the inlet control valve, the air passageway, a corresponding plain tee inlet structure, and the tire cavity.
US09216614B2 Rim for a pneumatic tire
It is an object of the present invention to provide a rim for a pneumatic tire that can suppress local deformation of the sidewall portion of a mounted tire and thus suppress the occurrence of damage to the sidewall portion. The rim for a pneumatic tire according to the present invention is provided with a pair of bead seat portions separated from each other in a rim width direction and a flange portion extending outwards in a rim radial direction from a rim width direction outer end of each bead seat portion. A rim radial direction outer end of the flange portion is recurved outwards in the rim width direction. A radius of curvature of a surface of the flange portion at a rim width direction outer end portion of the flange portion is at least 0.4 times and at most 1.0 times a radius of curvature of the surface of the flange portion at a rim width direction central portion of the flange portion.
US09216611B2 Vehicle wheel rim
A vehicle wheel, including: a peripheral rim with a radially outboard spoke bed and an apex region radially inboard from the spoke bed portion; a central hub with a hub flange; and a plurality of spokes extending between the rim and hub, with a first portion connected to the spoke bed and a second portion connected to the hub flange. The apex region includes a first apex portion and a second apex portion adjacent the first apex portion and a seam between the first apex portion and the second apex portion. Including a spanning element to span across said seam to retain said first apex portion to said second apex portion.
US09216610B2 Coated panel and method for manufacturing such panel
A coated panel may include at least a substrate and a top layer with a printed motif. The top layer may be provided on the substrate. The top layer may also include a transparent or translucent synthetic material layer, which is provided above the printed motif. The top layer, and preferably at least the transparent or translucent synthetic material layer may include a foamable or foamed synthetic material.
US09216606B2 Recording medium
A recording medium includes a support and an ink-receiving layer. The ink-receiving layer contains alumina particles, silica particles and a binder. A composition analysis of the recording medium performed by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy while etching is performed from a surface side to a support side provides a ratio of the amount of Si element to the total amount of Al element and Si element at an etching time of 0 minutes of 10 atomic percent or more and 90 atomic percent or less and a ratio of the amount of Si element to the total amount of Al element and Si element at an etching time of 5 minutes of 50 atomic percent or more.
US09216603B1 System and method for generation of test patterns for measurement of printhead to substrate separation in a printer
A method of generating a test pattern for use in identification of a z-axis distance between a printhead and a substrate in a three-dimensional object printer includes forming a first predetermined test pattern on a substrate with the printhead and generating image data of the first test pattern. The method further includes identifying cross-process direction offsets of marks in the image data of the first test pattern and generating second test pattern data for the printhead using only a portion of the ejectors in the printhead and not including a mark from at least one ejector in the printhead with a cross-process direction offset that is less than another cross-process direction offset of at least one ejector in the portion of the ejectors.
US09216599B2 Print media stacker
Print media stacker comprising a ramp to curve printed media over an angle of between 20 and 90 degrees with respect to a media advance direction.
US09216597B2 Printing apparatus and sheet processing apparatus
At least one of processing units is capable of being pulled out of a main body of an apparatus during the occurrence of a sheet conveyance jam. A first cutter and a second cutter are arranged in the vicinity of the processing unit. The first cutter is configured to cut the sheet on an upstream of the processing unit. The second cutter is configured to cut the sheet on a downstream thereof. When the processing unit is pulled, the sheet is cut on the upstream and downstream of the processing unit.
US09216596B1 Printing apparatus and commodity information processing apparatus
In accordance with one embodiment, a printing apparatus comprises a conveyance section, a print head, an erasing head, a cutter and a control section. The conveyance section conveys roll paper. The print head carries out printing with color erasable ink on the roll paper conveyed forward by the conveyance section. The erasing head erases the color of the color erasable ink printed on the roll paper conveyed backward by the conveyance section. The cutter cuts the roll paper printed by the print head. The control section determines whether or not to cut the roll paper by the cutter, controls the conveyance section to convey the roll paper backward in a case of not cutting the roll paper, and controls the erasing head to erase the color of the color erasable ink printed on the roll paper.
US09216592B2 System and method for reprinting on paper
A method of preparing reusable paper, including receiving at an erasing device an enhanced paper with less than 5% cellulose fibers and with images embedded thereon, illuminating the images on the paper with a light beam until ablating the images to form an erased paper, wherein the light beam illuminates the paper with a fluence that would damage paper made with a higher percentage of cellulose fibers, and outputting the erased paper.
US09216589B2 Image processing device and image processing method
An image processing device has an image forming portion, a heating portion and a supplying portion. The image forming portion forms an image on a sheet. The heating portion heats the sheet on which the image is formed by the image forming portion at a predetermined temperature, to thereby fix the image on the sheet. The supplying portion supplies the sheet on which an image is fixed previously. Further, the heating portion heats the sheet on which the image is fixed and which is supplied from the supplying portion at a temperature higher than the predetermined temperature to thereby remove the image.
US09216584B2 Printer
A printer includes a carriage mounted with a head including a nozzle that discharges ink onto a recording medium, a lever including a first end that contacts a surface of the recording medium. The lever is disposed such that an inclination of the lever relative to a vertical direction of the surface changes based on a thickness of the recording medium. The printer further includes a cam that changes an orientation of the carriage based on the inclination of the lever.
US09216581B2 Apparatus and method for wiping an inkjet cartridge nozzle plate
In a system and method for using a wiper to clean a nozzle plate of an inkjet head, a spring is disposed between the wiper and a mounting body, and the mounting body has a top portion and a bottom portion. The wiper is disposed proximate the top portion of the mounting body relative to the bottom portion of the mounting body. In addition, the wiper blade is transported across the face of a nozzle plate for wiping portions of the nozzle plate. A distance between the wiper blade and the bottom end of the mounting body is varied in accordance with variations in distances between the portions of the nozzle plate and the bottom portion of the mounting body.
US09216574B2 Print gap compensation
In an ink jet printer (2), where there is relative movement between a print carriage (4) and a print table (6) to print on to a substrate mounted on the table (6), the gradient of the print table at each position of the print carriage (4) is used to produce a compensated position of the print carriage (4), and printing data is sent to the print head according to the compensated position instead of the actual position. This delays or advances the release of ink, to compensate for the difference in the time taken for the ink to reach a substrate mounted on the print table (6) when the print gap between print heads and print table (6) is not constant.
US09216571B2 Liquid discharge apparatus and liquid discharge method
A liquid discharge apparatus is provided, comprising a channel structure; a piezoelectric actuator which has a plurality of individual electrodes, a common electrode, and a piezoelectric layer sandwiched between the individual electrodes and the common electrode; and a driving device which drives the piezoelectric actuator. The driving device outputs an individual driving signal which causes a change of an electric potential of the individual electrode, to the individual electrode corresponding to the nozzle for discharging the liquid. Further, the driving device outputs a common driving signal which causes a change of an electric potential of the common electrode in synchronization with the change of the electric potential of the individual electrode into which the individual driving signal is inputted, to the common electrode.
US09216569B2 Device for offline inspection and color measurement of printed sheets for the production of banknotes and like printed securities
There is described a device (1) for offline inspection and color measurement of printed sheets for the production of banknotes and like printed securities, comprising (i) a console (10) having a supporting surface (10a) for supporting a sample printed sheet (S), (ii) a multipurpose measuring apparatus (20), which multipurpose measuring apparatus (20) comprises multiple sensors (22, 23) including at least one camera (22) for taking images of selected portions of the sample printed sheet (S) and a color measurement sensor (23) for performing spectrophotometric, colorimetric, and/or densitometric measurements at selected locations on (22, 23) the sample printed sheet (S), (iii) a display (30) for displaying the images taken by the camera (22) and the measurements performed by the color measurement sensor (23), and (iv) a control and processing unit (40) coupled to the multipurpose measuring apparatus (20) and the display (30). The device (1) comprises a move-sensor beam (200) housing the multipurpose measuring apparatus (20), which moveable sensor beam (200) is displaceable along an x-axis over the supporting surface (10a) of the console (10) and over the entire surface of the sample printed sheet (S) located on the supporting surface (10a), the multiple sensors (22, 23) being mounted on a common sensor head (21) which is displaceable within the moveable sensor beam (200) along a y-axis so that the multipurpose measuring apparatus (20) can selectively take images of selected portions of the sample printed sheet (S) by means of the camera (22) or perform measurements at selected locations on the sample printed sheet (S) by means of the color measurement sensor (23). The control and processing unit (40) is configured to control displacement of the moveable sensor beam (200) along the x-axis and of the sensor head (21) along the y-axis.
US09216567B2 Printing press with several inking units
A printing press includes at least one impression cylinder, which has a first and a second front side and to which at least two inking systems each having a print roller are assigned. The print rollers are set against the impression cylinder and each print roller is driven via a drive. A first inking system is assigned to the first half of the impression cylinder and a second inking system is assigned to the second half. The drive of the print roller of the first inking system disposed in the first half is arranged on the first front side of the impression cylinder, and the drive of the print roller of the second inking system disposed in the second half is arranged on the first front side of the impression cylinder.
US09216560B2 Reflective insulation products and methods for manufacturing the same
In accordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure, a reflective insulation product is provided. The product includes a first outer layer having reflective material, a second outer layer, and an inner layer. The inner layer includes fiberglass and urethane, the urethane being present in an amount of at least about 5% by weight. The inner layer is positioned between the first outer layer and second outer layer such that the first outer layer is adhered to a first side of the inner layer by the urethane and the second outer layer is adhered to a second side of the inner layer by the urethane.
US09216559B2 Method for transferring graphene nondestructively with low cost
A method for transferring graphene nondestructively and at a low cost. In the method, a graphene is used whose surface is coated with transferring media and whose original substrate is an electrode, the electrode is placed into an electrolyte, and the graphene is separated from the original substrate by means of the driving force of bubbles and the gas intercalation produced on the graphene electrode surface during electrolysis. Then, the graphene coated with transferring media is nondestructively combined with a target substrate. The transferring media is removed so as to transfer the graphene to the target substrate nondestructively. The transferring method results in no damage or loss with respect to the graphene and the original substrate, and the original substrate can be re-used. Furthermore, the method is easy to perform, works quickly, is easy to control, and is pollution-free.
US09216557B2 Sealed structure, light-emitting device, electronic device, and lighting device
A sealed structure which has high sealing capability and whose border can be slim is provided. The sealed structure includes a pair of substrates whose respective surfaces face each other with a space therebetween, and a glass layer which is in contact with the substrates, defines a space between the substrates, and has at least one corner portion and side portions in continuity with the corner portion. The width of the corner portion of the glass layer is smaller than or equal to that of the side portion of the same. The sealed structure may comprise a highly reliable light-emitting element including a layer containing a light-emitting organic compound provided between a pair of electrodes.
US09216556B2 Sandwich structure having arrestment feature
A composite sandwich structure comprises a core sandwiched between composite laminate facesheets. The core includes a plurality of core sections spliced together at joints that incorporate integral features for arresting the propagation of irregularities in the facesheets.
US09216554B2 Process of fusion-bonding plastic film and drug bag
The present invention relates to a process of fusion-bonding a plastic film (8a, 8b) to an object to be fusion-bonded such as a port member (16) in manufacturing a drug bag, and relates to a drug bag. The present fusion-bonding process comprises steps of disposing a heat generation element generating heat by absorbing infrared laser, on an opposite surface (8c) of the plastic film (8a, 8b) from the port member (16), or between the port member (16) and the plastic film (8a, 8b), pressing a press member (30a, 30b), which allows infrared laser to be transmitted therethrough, from a side of the plastic film (8a, 8b), and irradiating the infrared laser (L) to the heat generation element (24a, 24b) through the press member (30a, 30b).
US09216553B2 Pressing device for a press and a rotary press
The invention relates to a pressing device for a press, in particular for a rotary press, wherein the pressing device is designed to work together with at least one press punch of the press during operation of the press so that the at least one press punch presses material located in a receiver, wherein the pressing device comprises a force measuring device for measuring the force exerted by the at least one press punch on the pressing device, wherein at least one section of the pressing device is moveable between a closed operation position and an opened maintenance position, and wherein the force measuring device in the opened maintenance position is at least partially accessible from outside. The invention also relates to a rotary press.
US09216551B2 Process and apparatus for manufacturing tyres
A plurality of strip-like elements is applied onto a forming drum externally having a substantially cylindrical laying surface. The strip-like elements are disposed in mutually approached relationship to form at least one first annular reinforcing layer on the forming drum itself set to a first work diameter at which each of the applied strip-like elements on the laying surface subtends an arc of a circumference of a width as large as a submultiple integer of the overall circumferential extension of the laying surface itself. Adjustment devices operating on the forming drum subsequently carry out expansion of the latter to a second work diameter larger than the first work diameter, while maintaining its laying surface substantially cylindrical.
US09216549B2 Optical part manufacturing method, mold manufacturing method, optical part manufacturing apparatus, and mold manufacturing apparatus
The present invention provides an optical part manufacturing method and an optical part manufacturing apparatus capable of manufacturing optical parts, whereby aligning an optical part with a bonded member and bonding the optical part and the bonded member can be accomplished successively, and a mold manufacturing method and a mold manufacturing apparatus capable of manufacturing a mold that is used to mold optical parts as above. A molding apparatus 10 performs a deformation step of bringing a light curing resin and a first transfer body 102 having a profile to form an optical element 404 and projections 406 in the light curing resin into contact with each other and deforming the light curing resin to copy the profile of the first transfer body 102, a hardening step of hardening the deformed light curing resin, a detaching step of detaching the light curing resin and the first transfer body 102 from each other, and repeats a transfer step of transferring the profile of the first transfer body 102 to the light curing resin a plurality of times to manufacture a lens array 402.
US09216547B2 Method and apparatus for making an object
The invention relates to a method for making an object, the method comprising forming a plurality of sections of the object, wherein the formation of each of the plurality of sections comprises applying at least two substances within an area having the shape of the section being formed, the at least two substances being able to chemically react upon contact with each other to form the section. The invention also relates to an apparatus for making an object, the apparatus comprising: an applicator arranged to apply at least two substances within an area having a shape of a section of the object being made, the at least two substances being able to chemically react upon contact with each other to form the section.
US09216541B2 Method for producing a mechanical locking system for building panels
Building panels 1, 1′ provided with a mechanical locking system including a tongue 30, at first edge 4a of a first building panel 1, cooperating with a tongue groove 20, at a second edge 4a of an adjacent second building panel 1′, for vertical locking of the building panels and a method for producing such building panels 1, 1′. The method includes the step of forming the tongue of material of the first edge. The insertion groove (40) may have a sidewall (60) at a third edge (5a), which is adjacent the first edge (4a), and may be open at a fourth edge (5b), which is opposite the third edge.
US09216538B2 Incrementally stretched films with enhanced properties and methods for making the same
Methods of enhancing one or more physical properties of a thermoplastic film include incrementally stretching thermoplastic films in the machine direction and/or transverse direction. In one or more implementations, methods of incrementally stretching thermoplastic films include reducing the gauge of the films without reducing the films' machine-direction tear resistance. The methods can involve cold stretching the films and imparting rib patterns into the film. The linear ribs can have alternating thick and thin gauges. Incrementally stretched thermoplastic films can have a machine-direction tear resistance that is approximately equal to or greater than the machine-direction tear resistance of the film prior to stretching.
US09216537B2 Compensation for hydrapak machine using isolator cylinder
An apparatus and method for simultaneously forming and filling a plastic container is provided. A mold having a mold cavity defines an internal surface and is adapted to accept a preform. A pressure source is operable to draw liquid through the inlet and urge it into the preform. A blow nozzle may be adapted to receive the liquid from the pressure source and transfer the liquid at high pressure into the preform thereby urging the preform to expand toward the internal surface of the mold cavity and create a resultant container. A pressure compensation system can exert a clamping force on the mold in response to the pressure source. The liquid remains within the container as an end product.
US09216536B2 Piston-based extrusion for viscous products
A system for preparing a dry viscous material for packaging comprises a tank containing the dry viscous material, the tank having a nozzle at one end. A piston in the tank is configured to exert pressure on the dry viscous material in order to extrude the dry viscous material through the nozzle. A mold is movably positioned at a first position at an exit end of the nozzle, the mold having rigid sides surrounding a hollow and configured to accept the dry viscous material extruded from the nozzle so as to form the dry viscous material into a molded portion. A mold moving mechanism is configured to move the mold from the first position to a second position once a predefined amount of dry viscous material is received therein. Finally, an ejection mechanism is configured to remove the molded portion from the mold at the second position.
US09216534B2 Coextrusion feedblock and coextrusion profiling insert assembly
The invention provides a coextrusion feedblock. The feedblock has a flow adjuster comprising a plurality of independently rotatable adjustment segments. Actuators are coupled with respective adjustment segments of the flow adjuster, such that the segments can be rotated by operating the actuators. The invention also provides a coextrusion profiling insert assembly for mounting removably in a coextrusion feedblock.
US09216533B2 Energy saving device for accelerated pressurization in injection molding machine
An energy saving device for accelerated pressurization in an injection molding machine includes a mold needing vapor and cooled water or oil in an injection molding process. The cooled water or oil is provided by a pump, followed by connecting to the mold through a water or oil supply pipeline. The interior of the accelerated pressurization energy saving pipe is a through hole. Three or more spiral grooves are provided on the inner peripheral surface of the through hole and having an angle rotated in a front direction, with the lateral direction of each spiral groove having an inclined angle. The vapor or water or oil enforces angle rotation and inclined angle accelerated pressurization.
US09216532B2 Injection mold assembly
An injection mold assembly for injection molding an object includes a first mold tool having a first tool surface and a second mold tool having a second tool surface. The first and the second tool surfaces are cooperatively configured to define a mold cavity between the tool surfaces for an injection molding of an object. The first mold tool has a tool element with a first side that has the first tool surface, and with a second side opposite the first side. Multiple fins extend from the second side of the tool element. A base supports the fins. The tool element, the fins and the base define a coolant flow cavity at the second side of the tool element. A method of designing the mold assembly is also disclosed.
US09216530B2 Connector cover
A seal for a cable and connector interconnection includes a unitary elastic primary body with a primary bore therethrough. The primary bore is provided with a primary cable outer diameter seal portion at a cable end, the cable outer diameter seal portion adjacent a primary connector cavity portion, the primary connector cavity portion adjacent a coupling nut cavity portion, and the coupling nut cavity portion adjacent a connector neck seal portion at a connector end. The coupling nut cavity portion is longitudinally aligned with a coupling nut of the connector and is provided with a greater inner diameter than the cable outer diameter seal portion and the connector neck seal portion.
US09216526B2 Injection compression molding system and method
An injection compression molding system includes a mold having a fixed first half and a displaceable second half. The second half is initially positioned with a cavity between the mold halves having a first clearance sized to receive a molten material puddle shot injected by an injection molding device without the puddle shot filling the cavity. A displacement device acts during or immediately after puddle shot injection, displacing the second mold half toward the first mold half creating a second clearance less than the first clearance. The second clearance defines a finished part thickness whereby displacement of the second mold half to the second clearance compresses the puddle shot so that the puddle shot fills the cavity and forms a finished part between the mold halves. Total time to inject and compress the puddle shot is less than or equal to 1.0 seconds.
US09216520B2 Method for manufacturing a rubber composition
Process for the manufacture of a rubber composition comprising various constituents, such as base elastomers, reinforcing fillers, additives and a vulcanization system, during which the following stages are carried out: A—using a continuous mixing device, a starting rubber composition comprising the reinforcing fillers and optionally other components, with the exception of the crosslinking system, is produced, the operating parameters for the continuous mixing device being chosen so that: a—the residence time of the elastomer in the mixing chamber is between 20 and 60 seconds, b—the specific energy conferred on the rubber composition is between 2000 joules/gram and 5000 joules/gram, B—at the outlet for the starting rubber composition from the mixing chamber, the temperature of the said starting rubber composition is lowered to a temperature of less than 140° C. in less than 5 minutes.
US09216518B2 Power equipment with quick release anti-kickback device
A power equipment in one embodiment includes a riving knife with a circular mounting hole opening to an outer surface of the riving knife through a throat, the throat having a minimum diameter that is less than a minimum diameter of the mounting hole, and an anti-kickback assembly including a generally cylindrical grooved shaft having a first diameter larger than a minimum diameter of the throat and a second diameter smaller than the minimum diameter of the throat, and an actuating arm operably connected to the grooved shaft and configured to rotate the grooved shaft from a first position whereat the second diameter is aligned with the throat and a second position whereat the second diameter is not aligned with the throat.
US09216517B2 Handheld work apparatus
A handheld work apparatus has a drive motor (8) that is held in a motor housing (2). At least one handle (4) is provided, with a vibration gap (12) being formed between the handle (4) and the motor housing (2). The vibration gap (12) permits a relative movement between handle (4) and motor housing (2). The handle (4) is connected to the motor housing (2) via at least one anti-vibration device (13, 14, 15, 16, 31, 49, 50, 63) that bridges the vibration gap (12). The anti-vibration device (15, 16, 31, 49, 50, 63) has a longitudinal center axis (23, 24). The anti-vibration device (15, 16, 31, 49, 50, 63) bridges the vibration gap (12) via at least one tension element. The anti-vibration device (15, 16, 31, 49, 50, 63) also has a spring (17, 32, 33, 51, 55, 72, 73) arranged functionally in series with the tension element.
US09216516B2 Razor handle having a retractable razor head carrier and a movable flap, and razor having such a handle
A razor handle that includes an elongated hollow housing having an opening provided on the front end, a razor head carrier which is slidably mounted in the recess between a first non-shaving position in which the razor head carrier is retracted and completely located inside the recess, a second shaving position, and a sliding mechanism for moving the razor head carrier. The razor handle further includes a pivotally mounted movable flap having a closed position in which the flap closes the opening, and an open position in which the flap is fully open and gives way to the razor head carrier, the movable flap being driven by a linkage.
US09216515B1 Shaving device
A shaving device comprising a head assembly having a support member and a blade cartridge. The support member is configured to be detachably coupled to a handle. The blade cartridge has a first and a second face wherein at least one of the first or second faces comprises at least one razor blade. The blade cartridge is configured to be rotatably coupled to the support member about a pivot axis such that the blade cartridge is pivotable by a user to select one of the first or second faces.
US09216513B2 Shaving device with improved contour following
A shaving head includes at least one cutting unit in which an external cutting member is subjected to a shaving action. The external cutting member is suspended relative to a holder of the shaving head through suspension means. The suspension means includes at least two pivot constructions, wherein one pivot construction enables a member of the suspension means to be pivotable relative to the holder. The other pivot construction enables the external cutting member to be pivotable relative to the suspension member. Furthermore, a pivoting stiffness of a connection of the latter pivot construction is lower than a pivoting stiffness of the first pivot construction. In this manner, good contour following performance is obtained at two levels, in both relatively small and relatively large curvature changing areas.
US09216511B2 Automated workpiece turning-over device for production line
A workpiece turning-over device includes a support base and two moving arm assemblies oppositely positioned on the support base. Each moving arm assembly includes a rotation member on the support base, a moving arm connected to the rotation member, a spur gear pair, and a bevel gear pair. The spur gear pair includes a first spur gear fixedly sleeved on the moving arm, and a second spur gear rotatably connected with the rotation member and meshing with the first spur gear. The bevel gear pair includes a first bevel gear non-rotatably connected with the rotation member, and a second bevel gear non-rotatably connected with the second spur gear and meshing with the first bevel gear. The two rotation members are rotated in opposite directions.
US09216509B2 Systems and methods for automated cloud-based analytics for security and/or surveillance
Systems and methods for cloud-based social surveillance are disclosed. At least one mobile robot patrol a certain surveillance area and capture data content through various function modules. A computing device coupled with each robot collects and sends the data to a cloud-based analytics platform via network for surveillance real-time or near-real-time analysis. A cloud-based analytics platform is comprised of at least one cloud server, at least one cloud database, communication network, and user interface. Authorized users access the information related to their corresponding predetermined surveillance environment inputs and/or analytics of the inputs within the system via a user interface and/or override commands or updates generated based on the analysis.
US09216506B2 Handle barrier
A handle barrier is configured to manipulate a handle while keeping a human hand separated from the handle. The handle barrier includes a body portion attached to a rear end having a left rear double arcuate portion, a right rear double arcuate portion, a front end having a left front arcuate portion and a right front arcuate portion. The left front arcuate portion and the right front arcuate portion are configured perpendicular to the body portion and further configured to accommodate the handle. The left front arcuate portion, the right front arcuate portion, the left rear double arcuate portion and the right rear double arcuate portion are further configured to be concave forming a central channel that is configured to accommodate the handle.
US09216505B2 Hand tool module
A hand tool module having an interconnection device, which has an interface. The interconnection device has, in addition to the interface, at least one auxiliary interface, which is provided to bidirectionally exchange at least power at least with one additional hand tool module and/or a hand tool.
US09216504B2 Spindle bearing arrangement for a power tool
A power tool that includes a housing, a motor, a pair of motor bearings, a transmission, an output spindle and front and rear spindle bearings. The motor is received in the housing and includes a stator and an output shaft that extends through the stator. The motor bearings support the output shaft for rotation relative to the housing and are disposed on opposite ends of the stator. The transmission is driven by the motor and includes an input pinion that is mounted to the output shaft for rotation therewith. The output spindle is driven by the transmission. The front spindle bearing is mounted to a front end of the output shaft radially between the housing and the output shaft. The rear spindle bearing is mounted to a rear end of the output spindle and a portion of the rear spindle bearing rotates with the output shaft.
US09216502B2 Multi-stranded return spring for fastening tool
Compression return springs can be mounted on rails between the driver and an impact absorber. The springs include a plurality of wires twisted together to form a multi-stranded twisted wire member, which forms the coils of the spring. The springs can have an inner diameter that resists movement of the coils along the rails when the spring is at its free length, but has a mounted inner diameter that freely allows such movement. The coil-to-coil pitch of the spring can vary along its length. A motor initially rotates the flywheel without engaging the driver. The driver then contacts the rotating flywheel to propel the driver, which compresses the return springs against the impact absorbers as the driver travels from the returned position to the extended position.
US09216499B2 Puller structure
A pulling structure contains: a holding disc, an adjusting member, a screw rod set, and pulling hooks. The holding disc includes a threaded orifice for inserting the screw rod set, the threaded orifice has a wide screwing section and a narrow screwing section, the holding disc also includes plural connecting portions for connecting with the pulling hooks. The screw rod set includes an inner screw rod, an outer screw rod, and a hollow screw sleeve, and the outer screw is screwed with the wide screwing section, and the screw sleeve is screwed with the outer screw rod. The adjusting member is fitted in the outer screw rod and is defined between the screw sleeve and the holding disc, and a spring element abuts against the adjusting member and the holding disc. The adjusting member includes a plurality of coupling posts, and each pulling hook has an inclined guiding face.
US09216498B2 Tube clamp detaching tool
A tube clamp detaching tool comprising a base, a movable member, a screw stem, a fixed jaw is formed at one end of the base, a holding block protrudes from the other end, and an elongated guide groove, the movable member is pivotal inserted into the guide groove, the movable member is provided with a movable jaw, the movable jaw is positioned relative to the fixed jaw, the screw stem is screwed into the holding block, and one end of the screw stem is pivotal joined to the movable member, the movable jaw is indented with a first inserting groove, the first inserting groove of the movable jaw is further indented with a cavity, the fixed jaw is indented with a second inserting groove to correspond to one side of the movable jaw, a first bolt is screwed into one side of the movable jaw and enters the cavity.
US09216490B2 Guard device
A guard device includes a fastening element defining a central opening and configured to be fastened onto a collar of a power tool, a guard portion extending from the fastening element and configured to surround at least a portion of a tool holder extending from the collar, a braking element pivotably supported on the fastening element and including a frictional engagement surface that is configured to be pivoted against the collar so as to apply a frictional braking force against the collar when the power tool is in an operating state, and an actuating element moveably supported on the fastening element and configured to pivot the braking element such that the frictional engagement surface is positioned in contact with the collar. The frictional engagement surface is configured to increase the braking force applied to the collar in response to a braking state of the power tool.
US09216488B2 Adjustable sharpening apparatus and method for cutting implements
An apparatus for sharpening a cutting implement has a base, a first clamping member and a second clamping member extending above the base. The clamping members have opposite top portions, bottom portions, and vertical inside surfaces substantially parallel to a vertical plane of the cutting implement. At least one guide rod is pivotably attached to the base. The guide rod distal end extends above the base at an angle to the vertical plane. An abrasive implement holder is configured to slidably move along the at least one guide rod. The abrasive implement holder has a body and holder aperture therethrough that extends along a guide rod axis and that is sized and configured to receive the guide rod. An adjustable face plate is pivotably connected to the body and defines a second angle with the guide rod axis. Pivoting the adjustable face plate changes the second angle.
US09216483B2 Screw fastening device
A screw device, for screws to a workpiece, comprises a platform, a feeding mechanism, a transferring mechanism, and a mechanism. The transferring mechanism is mounted on the platform and communicating with the feeding mechanism. The locking mechanism comprises a mounting plate, a first driving assembly, a second driving assembly, and a pneumatic sucker. The mounting plate is fixed on the platform. The first driving assembly is mounted on the mounting plate. The second driving assembly is fixedly connected to the first driving assembly. The pneumatic sucker is mounted on an end of the second driving assembly adjacent to the platform, and is located near an end of the first transferring member, the first driving assembly driving the second driving assembly and the pneumatic sucker to move along an axis of the pneumatic sucker. The second driving assembly drives the pneumatic sucker to rotate.
US09216479B2 Robot
A robot includes: a stage unit; a rotation base connected to the stage unit in a rotatable manner around a predetermined rotating axis; an arm unit connected to the rotation base and having a base end rotatable around a first rotation axis that is substantially orthogonal to the rotating axis; a balancer connected to both the rotation base and the arm unit; and a cable arranged along the arm unit outside the balancer while supported by that balancer.
US09216477B2 Ampoule labels
Nebulizer ampoules are labelled by laser-marking or laser-engraving data on a film to produce a data film and affixing the film onto a nebulizer ampoule using a non-migratory adhesive.
US09216468B2 Method for brazing aluminum members and brazing apparatus used for same
Provided are: a method for brazing an aluminum alloy, which is characterized in that brazing is carried out by heating an aluminum brazing sheet without using flux in a furnace that is in an argon gas-containing atmosphere, said aluminum brazing sheet comprising a core material that is composed of aluminum or an aluminum alloy and a brazing filler material that is composed of an aluminum alloy and clad on one surface or both surfaces of the core material, and said core material and/or said brazing filler material containing Mg; and a brazing apparatus which is used in the method for brazing an aluminum alloy. The brazing method has good and stable brazing properties and is applicable in industrial practice.
US09216462B2 Rotary cutting tool having a chip-splitting arrangement with two diverging grooves
A rotary cutting tool, having a longitudinal axis, includes a forward cutting portion and a rearward shank portion. The cutting portion includes a peripheral surface that has a plurality of flutes recessed therein. The plurality of flutes extend helically along the longitudinal axis and form a plurality of cutting teeth. Each cutting tooth includes a cutting edge at a rotationally leading edge thereof and a chip-splitting arrangement located at the cutting edge. Each chip-splitting arrangement includes two grooves. The two grooves interrupt the cutting edge and diverge, relative to each other, therefrom in the peripheral surface on opposite sides of an associated plane that is oriented perpendicularly to the longitudinal axis.
US09216461B2 Cutting body configured for fine-tuning and metal-working machine tool comprising a plurality thereof
A cutting body for a metal-working machine tool includes a cutting portion extending from a body portion. The body portion is configured to fine-tune the position of the cutting portion. The body portion includes an inner sub-portion and an outer sub-portion disposed between the inner sub-portion and the cutting portion. The outer sub-portion includes adjacent first and second sections. The first section is configured to elastically bend, extends between the inner sub-portion and the cutting portion, and comprises a face adjacent the second section. The second section includes a biasing surface and a biasing sub-portion configured to hold a biasing member. When the biasing sub-portion is moved due to biasing of the biasing member against the biasing surface, the first section is configured to bend and thereby change position of the cutting portion extending therefrom and allow fine-tuning thereof.
US09216457B2 Holder assembly for a cutting tool insert and a cutting tool
A holder assembly for a cutting tool insert for machining operations. The holder assembly has first and second spaced apart clamping members, each having respective inner seating surfaces facing one another and defining an intermediate gap to receive the cutting tool. The clamping members are movable towards each other by a clamping mechanism to clamp and secure the cutting tool insert between the seating surfaces. The clamping mechanism includes a drawbar that is received in a cavity formed in each of the clamping members and are aligned with each other and extends in a transverse direction in relation to the intermediate gap. The clamping mechanism also includes a compression spring member, which presses the clamping members towards each other to secure clamping of the cutting tool insert. The clamping mechanism is released by a releasing member that overcomes the spring force acting to move the clamping members towards each other.
US09216456B2 Surface-coated cutting tool and method of manufacturing the same
A surface-coated cutting tool of the present invention includes a base material and a coating film formed on the base material. The coating film includes at least one TiB2 layer. The TiB2 layer includes Cl together with TiB2. This surface-coated cutting tool is characterized in that assuming that in the TiB2 layer, a first region represents a region having a thickness of 0.5 μm from an interface on the base material side, and a second region represents a region having a thickness of 0.5 μm from an interface on the coating film surface side, an atomic ratio Cl/(Ti+Cl) between Ti and Cl is higher in the second region than in the first region.
US09216453B2 Methods of forming dual microstructure components
Methods of forming dual microstructure components include consolidating a powder material comprising an alloy to form a billet, the billet having a first grain structure, inductively heating the billet at an inductive heat treat temperature above a gamma prime solvus temperature of the alloy and subjecting the billet to a subsolvus heat treat temperature that is below the gamma prime solvus temperature of the alloy, waiting a period of time for the first grain structure in an outer portion of the billet to transform into a second grain structure that is coarser than the first grain structure, after the steps of inductively heating and subjecting the billet to the subsolvus heat treat temperature. The methods also include dividing the billet into at least two sections, and machining a final shape into one or more of the at least two sections to form the dual microstructure component.
US09216452B2 Edge dam upper portion sealing apparatus for twin roll strip caster
There is provided an edge dam upper portion sealing apparatus for a twin roll strip caster. The edge dam upper portion sealing apparatus may include: a sealing pad making tight contact with an upper portion of an edge dam and a lateral side of a meniscus shield of the twin roll strip caster; a bearing member coupled to the sealing pad; and a driving unit connected to the bearing member and coupled to at least two links for forming a link structure.
US09216451B2 Method of casting a component having interior passageways
A method of casting a component (42) having convoluted interior passageways (44). A desired three dimensional structure corresponding to a later-formed metal alloy component is formed by stacking a plurality of sheets (18, 20) of a fugitive material. The sheets contain void areas (22) corresponding to a desired interior passageway in the metal alloy component. A ceramic slurry material is cast into the three dimensional structure to form either a ceramic core (34) or a complete ceramic casting vessel (38). If just a ceramic core is formed, a wax pattern is formed around the ceramic core and an exterior ceramic shell (38) is formed around the wax pattern by a dipping process prior to the removal of the fugitive material and wax. An alloy component having the desired interior passageway is cast into the casting vessel after the fugitive material is removed.
US09216450B2 Side frame and bolster for a railway truck and method for manufacturing same
A method of manufacturing a side frame mold for casting a side frame of a railway car truck includes forming a drag and a cope portion of a mold from a casting material to define an exterior surface of a drag portion and cope portion, respectively, of the side frame. The mold includes a portion for casting the pedestal jaw of the side frame. The drag and the cope portions are then cured.
US09216449B2 Controlled crimping method and system
A system for crimping a first component onto a second component includes a first portion and a second portion facing the first portion. The system also includes at least one actuator configured to move the first portion relative to the second portion to compress a die disposed between the first portion and the second portion. The compression of the die causes the first and second components located in the die to be crimped together. The system also includes a controller connected to the at least one actuator. The controller is configured to determine a value associated with an amount of deflection of the first portion while crimping and determine whether to stop the movement of the first portion based on the determined value.
US09216446B2 Descaling nozzle for removing scale from steel sheet, descaling apparatus for removing scale from steel sheet, and descaling method for removing scale from steel sheet
Provided is a descaling nozzle that can efficiently remove scale from a steel sheet. A discharge section at an end of a descaling nozzle includes a discharge hole (main flow orifice) and a branch hole (branch flow orifice) that are connected to a large diameter portion that forms a cylindrical channel. The branch flow orifice discharges a part of water flow in the large diameter portion so that cavitation occurs at a boundary between the part of water flow discharged from the branch flow orifice and water flow that is discharged from the discharge hole.
US09216445B2 Method of forming magnesium alloy sheets
A machine for asymmetric rolling of a work-piece includes pair of rollers disposed in an arrangement to apply opposing, asymmetric rolling forces to roll a work-piece therebetween, wherein a surface of the work-piece is rolled faster than an opposite surface of the work-piece; and an exit constraint die rigidly disposed adjacent an exit side of the pair of rollers so that, as the work-piece exits the pair of rollers, the work-piece contacts the exit constraint die to constrain curling of the work-piece.
US09216444B2 Reactor cleaning apparatus
In a reactor cleaning apparatus 1 which cleans an inner wall surface 72 of a reactor 70 which generates polycrystalline silicon, a bell jar of the reactor 70 has a dual structure, a through hole 11 is formed along a vertical direction at a central portion of a substantially disc-like tray 10 placed in a horizontal state, a flange portion 13 in which an opening edge of the reactor 70 is placed is formed at an outer peripheral portion of the tray 10, a shaft 20 is provided through the through hole 11 of the tray 10 so as to be rotatable and movable in the vertical direction, a nozzle device 50 which sprays a cleaning water at high pressure in three-dimensional directions is provided at an upper end of the shaft 20, a drive mechanism 30 which rotates the shaft 20 and moves the shaft in the vertical direction is provided at a base end of the shaft 20, and steam piping 62 capable of supplying the steam within the bell jar of the reactor 70 is provided.
US09216441B2 Water jetting gun having a removable valve cartridge, an adjustable hand grip and an adjustable shoulder stock
An adjusting assembly adjustably coupling (1) a hand grip to a barrel of a water jetting gun or (2) a shoulder stock to a supply tube of a water jetting gun. The adjusting assembly includes a cam pin. The cam pin (1) couples to said grip and is proximate the barrel or (2) couples to the shoulder stock and is proximate the supply tube. A knob is rotatably coupled to the cam pin.A water jetting gun has a body with an access port leading into a valve cartridge chamber. An adaptor extends through said access port. In the operable state, the adaptor is removable from the body by a person gripping a head of the adaptor with its hand and unscrewing the adaptor by hand without the aid of a hand tool.
US09216440B2 Systems and methods to monitor proper disinfection of needleless connectors
A device and method for disinfecting a needleless connector, the device including a housing comprising a hub rotationally coupled to a motor, the motor being operably connected to a power source, the hub further comprising a receptacle configured to receive a cleaning head, wherein the device is configured to detect achievement of one or more minimum thresholds which are recommended to achieve proper disinfection of the needleless connector. Various devices and methods are further provided to permit tracking and reporting of disinfection events.
US09216439B2 Rotary brush attachment
A rotary brush attachment for use with a tool, such as a power tool, to remove rust, paint, debris, and other unwanted matter accumulated on the surface of fasteners and other parts used in construction, automotive applications, and industrial applications. The rotary brush attachment comprises a body oriented along a longitudinal axis, an engagement portion for removably engaging a tool, and a brush portion. The brush portion comprises a hollow extending at least partially into the body along the longitudinal axis, and bristles extending from the interior surface of the hollow towards the longitudinal axis.
US09216436B2 Production of zinc oxide coated powders
This disclosure concerns the production of ZnO (zinc oxide) coated particles for use in rubber as a substitute for bulk ZnO particles. Compared to bulk oxide, oxide coated particles offer the advantage of a higher specific surface per mass unit of ZnO. This implies both ecological and economical benefits. An enhanced process is presented for the synthesis of aggregate particles, comprising a core of CaCO3, which is at least partially coated with ZnO, comprising the steps of: heating a metallic Zn bath, thereby evaporating Zn and forming a Zn-vapor atmosphere; injecting CaCO3 particles as core compound in the Zn-vapor atmosphere; injecting air in the Zn-vapor atmosphere in an amount in excess of the stoechiometric need for the oxidation of the Zn vapor to ZnO. This process is clean and sustainable, producing no unnecessary phases.
US09216432B2 Methods and apparatus for distributing water in a shower enclosure
Methods and apparatus provide for installation of a water spraying system into an existing shower enclosure, including: a flexible source tube operating to couple to the water feed; a first array for placement proximate to the first wall, and a second array for placement proximate to the third wall, opposite to the first array, each of the first and second arrays having at least two laterally extending, and vertically spaced apart, spray tubes, each spray tube having a series of apertures extending through a wall of the given tube and permitting water to exit the tube and spray into the shower enclosure.
US09216431B2 Satellite spray bottle use and refill systems
A satellite spray bottle use and refill system includes a spray bottle and a refill station. The spray bottle includes a container housing that defines an internal reservoir space, a spray head connected to an upper margin of the container housing, a mounting structure connected to the container housing, and a refill inlet in fluid connection with the internal reservoir space. The refill station has a support structure for supporting the mounting structure of the spray bottle, and a discharge outlet for refilling the internal reservoir space of the spray bottle. Upon engagement of the mounting structure of the spray bottle with the support structure of the refill station, the refill inlet of the spray bottle and the discharge outlet of the refill station are automatically docked establishing a fluid connection. In some cases, the refill station is vertically invertible.
US09216423B2 Gas cleaning separator
The present invention relates to a separator and more specifically, but not exclusively, to a centrifugal separator for the cleaning of a gaseous fluid. A centrifugal separator is provided as comprising a housing defining an inner space, and a rotor assembly for imparting a rotary motion onto a mixture of substances to be separated. The rotor assembly is located in said inner space and is rotatable about an axis relative to the housing. The rotor assembly comprises an inlet for receiving said mixture of substances, an outlet from which said substances are ejected from the rotor assembly during use, and a flow path for providing fluid communication between the inlet and outlet, wherein the outlet is positioned more radially outward from said axis than the inlet.
US09216422B2 Vertical axis centrifugal separator
A vertical separator has a bowl which is supported for rotation about a vertical axis and from beneath, providing an unobstructed inlet to the bowl. Conveyor flighting, located concentrically for independent co-rotation within the bowl, directs solids to the bottom of the bowl while the liquids flow along an annular clearance along the bowl wall to an upper end of the bowl. A feedstream, such as drilling mud shaker solids, which may otherwise require augers or the like to feed the feedstream through a conventional horizontal centrifuge, can be received at the inlet by gravity feed and residual liquids stripped therefrom.
US09216420B2 Apparatus for resource-friendly separation of magnetic particles from non-magnetic particles
An apparatus for separating magnetic particles from a dispersion that includes magnetic particles and non-magnetic particles, the apparatus comprising; at least one arcuate canal forming 90 to 350° of a circular arc through which the dispersion flows, at least one magnet that is movable adjacent to the canal and which forces the magnetic particles into at least one first outlet, and at least one second outlet through which the non-magnetic particles exit the canal, the apparatus further comprising treating the dispersion, or a part of the dispersion, with a hydrophilic liquid, and treating the dispersion, or a part of the dispersion, with a hydrophobic liquid.
US09216419B2 Processing of waste incineration ashes
The invention relates to a method for processing waste incineration ashes (A), in particular domestic waste incineration ashes (HMVA), in which the ashes are classified into a plurality of fractions of different grain size distributions in a processing plant (11) separated from the actual waste incineration process. The ashes (A) are classified exclusively using a wet classification process in the processing plant (11), only wet classification processes that are gentle to the grains being used, and the wet classification process is performed in such a way that all of the ashes (A) are classified into at least one fine fraction (I) loaded with harmful substances and at least one coarse fraction (II, III) that contains only a small amount of harmful substances or no harmful substances at all.
US09216417B2 Small mill having a rotor inclined relative to the axis of the feed chute
A small mill is essentially composed of a feed chute (1) discharging onto a rotor (2) equipped with milling and/or cutting hammers (3) interworking with a milling housing (4) that is equipped with screening walls (5), a crusher element (6) that can be provided upstream from the rotor (2), above the feed chute (1) and at a distance from the latter. The mill is characterized in that the axis of the rotor (2) is inclined relative to the axis of the feed chute (1) by forming an acute angle with the latter. This mill can be applied more particularly in the field of processing materials of any origin, especially by shredding with crushers, hammer mills, or the like.
US09216414B2 Microfluidic devices and methods for gene synthesis
Certain aspects of the present invention provide devices and methods for preparing oligonucleotides and for assembling nucleic acid molecules using microfluidic devices.
US09216407B2 Resid hydrotreating catalyst
Catalyst supports, supported catalysts, and a method of preparing and using the catalysts for the demetallation of metal-containing heavy oil feedstocks are disclosed. The catalyst supports comprise precipitated alumina prepared by a low temperature pH swing process. A large portion of the pore volume of the catalyst supports has pores with a diameter in the range of about 200 Å to about 500 Å. Catalysts prepared from the supports of the invention exhibit improved catalytic activity and stability to remove metals from heavy hydrocarbon feedstocks during a hydroconversion process. The catalysts also exhibit increased sulfur and MCR conversion during the hydroconversion process.
US09216403B2 Epoxy chemistry derived materials as reversed-phase and hydrophobic interaction chromatography media, method for their synthesis and use
This invention provides aqueous-compatible, polar-embedded reversed-phase stationary phase compositions, devices and systems comprising the stationary phases as well as methods of producing these compositions using epoxide ring-opening reactions. Also provided are methods of using the stationary phases of the invention in separations.
US09216400B2 High power non-thermal plasma system for industrial applications
Methods of increasing the total power of non-thermal plasma power systems are described. Various embodiments of the present invention provide non-thermal plasma reactor assemblies and methods of operating said assemblies, each assembly comprising: (a) at least two non-thermal plasma reactors, each reactor comprising at least one inlet circumferential gas flow inlet apparatus, an electrode, and a flow restricted exit portal, said reactor configured to eject a jet of non-thermal plasma external to said reactor; (b) said at least two non-thermal plasma reactors configured to work in tandem with one another such that a first reactor electrode can be maintained at a high voltage electric potential relative to a second reactor electrode, said first and second reactor electrodes forming an electrode pair able to maintain a non-thermal plasma discharge between the first and second reactor electrodes.
US09216396B2 Non-catalytic recuperative reformer
A non-catalytic recuperative reformer has a flue gas flow path for conducting hot flue gas from a thermal process and a reforming mixture flow path for conducting a reforming mixture. At least a portion of the reforming mixture flow path is embedded in the flue gas flow path to permit heat transfer from the hot flue gas to the reforming mixture. The reforming mixture flow path contains substantially no material commonly used as a catalyst for reforming hydrocarbon fuel (e.g., nickel oxide, platinum group elements or rhenium), but instead the reforming mixture is reformed into a higher calorific fuel via reactions due to the heat transfer and residence time. In a preferred embodiment, extended surfaces of metal material such as stainless steel or metal alloy that are high in nickel content are included within at least a portion of the reforming mixture flow path.
US09216393B2 Process and apparatus for safe disposal of used ionic liquid catalyst
We provide a process and apparatus for preparing a used ionic liquid catalyst for safe disposal, comprising hydrolyzing the used ionic liquid catalyst comprising an anhydrous metal halide with a basic solution at a temperature from −20° C. to 90° C. to produce a hydrolyzed product, evolve a hydrogen halide gas, and dissolve the hydrogen halide gas into the basic solution.
US09216392B2 System for forming an array of emulsions
System, including apparatus and methods, for forming an array of emulsions. The system may comprise a plate including an array of emulsion production units. Each unit may include at least one first input well, a second input well, and an output well connected to the first and second input wells by channels that form a droplet generator. The system also may comprise a vacuum or pressure source configured to be connected operatively to wells of the plate to form a pressure drop between the input wells and the output well of each unit that is capable of driving a first fluid and a second fluid from respective first and second input wells of such unit and through the droplet generator, for collection as an emulsion in the output well of such unit.
US09216389B2 Porous polymer membrane with covalent network structure and production method thereof
The present disclosure provides a porous polymer membrane having a covalent network structure and a method for producing the same. The method includes: polymerizing a first monomer having four first functional groups oriented in a tetrahedral arrangement with a second monomer having at least two second functional groups to prepare porous organic framework nanoparticles; mixing the solution of the porous organic framework nanoparticles with a polymer; and applying the mixed solution to a substrate, followed by heating to form a polymer matrix containing the nanoparticles. According to the method, a polymer membrane with excellent chemical stability, heat resistance, durability and permeability can be produced through simple processes. Advantageously, the porous structure of the polymer membrane can be easily modified depending on intended applications of the polymer membrane.
US09216386B2 Sequential extracorporeal treatment of bodily fluids
An article and method to treat extracorporeally a patient's bodily fluid. The bodily fluid can include blood, cerebral spinal fluid and lymph. A first stage of the method includes applying a treatment. The treatment can comprise dosing with a medication, thermal treatment, or irradiation. The treatment can occur at levels that could otherwise compromise the patient's health. A second stage of the method substantially removes the treatment from the bodily fluid. The bodily fluid can then be returned to the patient. The article includes a treatment chamber that applies the treatment and a removal module for removing the treatment. The method can be a continuous process such as, for example, a dialysis process.
US09216377B1 Method and system for removing impurities from gas streams using rotating packed beds
The present invention relates to a method and system for removing an impurity from a feed gas stream. Various embodiments include, for example, using a rotating packed bed, a pressure reducing device such as a turbine and/or control valve, a regenerator, and novel internal seal designs and liquid distributors. Advantageously, at least a portion of any energy produced is recycled for use in the process or elsewhere.
US09216372B1 Sulfur trap
A sulfur trap provides separation of elemental molten sulfur from a process stream comprising a mixture of sulfur and associated tail-gases. The sulfur trap comprises a vertically-oriented cylindrical wall having a chamber for receiving the process stream, a float positioned in the chamber, the float attached to a float end of a lever, a nozzle insert attached to the distal end of the lever, and a lever fulcrum positioned intermediate the lever float end and the lever nozzle insert end. The float, lever, nozzle insert and outlet are constructed to allow the float position to control nozzle insert engagement of the outlet, particularly to close the outlet when the float is elevated by molten sulfur and to disengage from the outlet to allow discharge flow of liquid sulfur at a determined level of sulfur within the chamber.
US09216368B1 Apparatus for filtering and/or purifying water of a potable water distribution system, such as a potable water distribution system for aircraft, said apparatus providing water boiler expansion pressure relief
An apparatus for filtering and/or purifying water flowing through a water distribution system has a water filtration/purification cartridge mounted inside a housing. The apparatus provides for water boiler expansion pressure relief, while guarding against any water contaminated downstream of the apparatus backflowing into contact with the outlet side of the filtering and/or purifying matrix of the cartridge to prevent possible contamination of the outlet side of the matrix from such backflow and thereby cause water exiting the outlet port apparatus to be contaminated.
US09216363B2 Flying toy figurine
A flying toy figurine includes a main body having an upper body portion, a lower body portion and a middle body portion, the middle body portion including a waist portion and a hip portion. A center shaft connects the upper body portion to the lower body portion, and the waist portion and the hip portion are mounted for independent rotation about the center shaft. A motor drives a rotor assembly, including at least two main propeller blades, located in the waist portion in one direction for imparting vertical aerodynamic lift to the figurine. Rotation of the waist portion in one direction causes the hip portion to counter-rotate in the opposite direction. The center shaft is not connected to the waist portion or the hip portion and therefore rotation of the upper body portion and lower body portion remains independent of the rotation of the waist portion and the hip portion.
US09216361B2 Robotic and other skins with a subsurface reinforcement layer at a selectable depth
A method for fabricating an artificial skin such as for use with a robotic assembly. The method includes providing a mold assembly with an exterior mold and an interior core. A cavity is defined between inner surfaces of the exterior mold and exterior surfaces of the interior core, thereby defining a shape and thickness of a skin. A surface of the interior core includes offsets or standoffs extending outward from the interior core surface. The method further includes positioning a sheet of reinforcement material over the surface such that the sheet contacts the offsets. The method includes pouring material for the skin system into the mold to occupy the cavity between the exterior mold and the interior core. The method includes disassembling the mold assembly and removing the skin with the sheet of reinforcement material embedded within the skin at an offset distance from a surface of the skin.
US09216358B2 Online games using terraformed game spaces
Software displays a virtual game space for an online game. The virtual game space is associated with a first player of the online game and includes at least one terraformed feature created by a first player. The software receives a modification from a second player of the online game. The modification changes one of the at least one terraformed features into another terraformed feature. Then the software displays the virtual game space with the modification. At least one virtual object is associated with each of the at least one terraformed features.
US09216353B2 Apparatus and method for real-time measurement and evaluation of skill levels of participants in a multi-media interactive environment
Apparatus and methods are described for operating an online interactive simulation/game environment, where an object's motion is controlled by a player along a path. A player's skill level is quickly quantified as they control the object traversing the path, so that they can be properly placed in games with those of like skill, and do so without having competed with others. An optimal path is established for the object's travel during a portion of a game, and at each increment of travel, an optimum velocity or time delta is established. The path of the object being controlled by a player being rated is then tracked over the same path. At each distance increment its position and velocity or time delta are recorded and compared with the optimum. Deviations therebetween are calculated on an incremental basis, and the aggregate determines the player's skill level for a set of equivalent conditions.
US09216351B2 Techniques and workflows for computer graphics animation system
The disclosed implementations describe techniques and workflows for a computer graphics (CG) animation system. In some implementations, systems and methods are disclosed for representing scene composition and performing underlying computations within a unified generalized expression graph with cycles. Disclosed are natural mechanisms for level-of-detail control, adaptive caching, minimal re-compute, lazy evaluation, predictive computation and progressive refinement. The disclosed implementations provide real-time guarantees for minimum graphics frame rates and support automatic tradeoffs between rendering quality, accuracy and speed. The disclosed implementations also support new workflow paradigms, including layered animation and motion-path manipulation of articulated bodies.
US09216346B2 Delivery of projections for rendering
A workflow for 3D content authoring, delivery, and rendering is facilitated based on pre-authored image projections to obtain improvements in authoring efficiency. Additionally, a content delivery platform centered on such pre-authored image projections provides a mechanism for significantly improving streaming efficiency for 3D worlds. Multiple images encode primary surface detail of 3D worlds in real-time applications. Examples of such projections include images that can be as rich as film frames, feature animation frames, high end digital renders, concept paintings, or any suitable combination thereof. An algorithm for improved image projection camera path trajectories, sampling selection, and blending may be implemented by various systems and methods to facilitate smooth transitions during movements of a player within a game set in the 3D space. In addition, a back-projection technique may be implemented by various systems and methods to propagate revisions of one or more projections.
US09216342B1 Grip-it golf method and system
A grip-it golf system for releasably supporting a golf glove and for maintaining the golf glove in a readily accessible location includes the golf glove, a supporting member, a connector, and a female snap on the interior surface of the connector. The method includes releasably coupling the female snap of the connector to the male snap of the golf bag and releasable coupling the female loop fastener of the glove to the male hook fastener of the connector so that the weight of the connector will hold the glove against the golf bag elevationally beneath the coupled male and female snaps for securement purposes and for drying when the golf bag, connector, and golf glove are moving, as on a golf cart.
US09216341B2 Real-time swimming monitor
A wearable device for monitoring and providing real-time feedback about a swimmer's body motion and performance, in particular, body orientation and forward speed, is provided. The device comprises a three-axis accelerometer, optionally a three-axis gyroscope, a memory, and a microcontroller configured to process the sensor input, calculate a swimmer's performance and provide feedback to the swimmer through an output. The output can be an earpiece or a swimming goggle with a digital display.
US09216339B2 Ball net structure
A ball net structure includes: a base; two tilted metallic pipes flanking the base and having front ends receiving two resilient rods, respectively, with the tilted metallic pipes longer than the resilient rods, allowing the resilient rods to bend and achieve optimal curvature and produce the evenest and largest tensile force; a net body stretched by and between the resilient rods to keep being flat and tight; a plastic sheet edge-binder disposed at each of four edges of the net body; clamping elements for clamping first and second edges of the net body; two net-clamping shells for clamping the clamping elements, the plastic sheet edge-binder, and the first and second edges of the net body; and at least two nails disposed on each of the net-clamping shells to fix the net-clamping shells in place, achieving uniform distribution of stress and extending the service life of the net body.
US09216336B2 Magnetic golf tee and dual ball marker combination
This invention includes a golf tee portion with a shaft and two ends. One end of that portion includes a ball receiving end and one end includes a cavity portion for receiving a magnetic material. There is a cylindrical ball marker portion that goes between the golf tee portion and the base and is attracted to both. Last there is a grounded cylindrical base with two ends. One end can include a stem or series of stems so it can adhere in the ground, and one end is equipped with two cavities. One cavity is larger for placing a magnetic material which is attracted to the golf tee portion, and the removable ball marker, and a smaller cavity for magnetic material so the material in the larger cavity is held but removable. This design allows less friction on golf drives, and dual usage as a ball marker on the green.
US09216333B2 Golf club having removable weight
A golf club head is presented comprising a sole including a weight member secured to a weight mount. The weight member is preferably constructed so that it has a low profile and so that it interacts with an angled abutment portion of the weight mount to locate the weight member in the golf club head.
US09216331B2 Golf club head with adjustable sole
Described herein are embodiments of golf club heads, such as fairway wood heads, having an adjustable sole. In some embodiments, a club head includes a body, a sole plate, and a platform. The body has a front portion comprising a striking plate, a rear end, a toe, a heel, a crown, and a lower portion opposite the crown. The sole plate is coupled to the lower portion of the body and is pivotably adjustable relative to the body about a pivot location adjacent to the front portion of the body. The platform is positioned between the sole plate and the lower portion of the body and is adjustable, such as frontwardly and rearwardly, to plural positions along the lower portion of the body to change a pivot angle between the sole plate and the body.
US09216330B2 Method, apparatus, and system for golf product reconfiguration and selection
A computer program is disclosed for reconfiguring a property-adjustable golf club. The program receives data input corresponding to a current configuration of an adjustable feature of the golf club, and data input corresponding to trajectory adjustment information. Based on the data input, reconfiguration information is generated, and outputted, that corresponds to one of a plurality of configurations of the adjustable feature of the golf club.
US09216326B2 Golf club
A golf club comprises a shaft, a club head, and a connection assembly that allows the shaft to be easily disconnected from the club head. In particular embodiments, a sleeve including a top portion, a middle portion connected to the top portion is described. The middle portion includes a thin wall thickness. A bottom portion is connected to the middle portion including a plurality of engaging surfaces. A central longitudinal axis and an offset angle offset from the central longitudinal axis is described. The offset angle allows a maximum loft change of about 0.5 degrees to about 4.0 degrees. The total weight of the sleeve is less than 9 g.
US09216325B2 Shaft plugs for golf clubs and methods to manufacture golf clubs
Embodiments of shaft plugs for golf clubs and methods to manufacture golf clubs with shaft plugs are generally described herein. Other embodiments of shaft plugs may be described and claimed.
US09216324B2 Metal wood club
A golf club head is provided having a body and a face, with a slot in a perimeter region of the body of the club head adjacent the face. The slot increases the flex of the hitting surface on impact with a golf ball, thereby increasing the speed with which the ball rebounds off the hitting face and increases the overall distance the ball is hit. The slot preferably moves the sweet spot of the hitting face a distance X from the face center of the hitting face. The slot may be filled with an insert.
US09216322B2 Golf ball cores having foam center and thermoset outer layers with hardness gradients
Multi-layered golf ball core sub-assemblies and the resulting golf balls are provided. The core structure includes an inner core (center) comprising a foam composition, preferably foamed polyurethane. The intermediate and outer core layers are preferably formed from non-foamed thermoset compositions such as polybutadiene rubber. The core layers have different hardness and specific gravity levels. The core assembly preferably has a positive hardness gradient extending across the entire assembly. The core structure and resulting ball have relatively good resiliency.
US09216320B2 Method and apparatus for measuring power output of exercise
In a portable exercise tracking system, a method and apparatus for measuring power output of exercise motion by a user. The system includes a wireless motion sensor and a wireless central mass unit. The wireless motion sensor detects, measures and transmits motion data associated with a first motion by the user. The central mass unit detects and measures motion data associated with a second motion by the user. The central mass unit also computes the power output of the first motion and the second motion as a function of the first motion data and the second motion data. The disclosed method and apparatus provides a more effective means of computing total power output of a user performing free body exercises.
US09216317B2 Stair climber apparatuses and methods of operating stair climber apparatuses
Stair climber apparatuses have a frame having an inclined support that extends from a bottom portion to a top portion; a plurality of stairs that are connected together in series and travel in a loop around the inclined support; an electric motor; and a control circuit that controls a speed of the electric motor and an output direction of the electric motor. The electric motor is operatively connected to the plurality of stairs so as to move the plurality of stairs in an upward direction along the inclined support and so as to alternatively move the plurality of stairs in an opposite, downward direction along the inclined support. An operator input device at the bottom portion of the inclined support inputs a boarding command to the control circuit. Based on the boarding command, the control circuit controls the electric motor so as to move the plurality of stairs along the inclined support. Methods are for operating the stair climber apparatuses.
US09216315B1 Multifunctional exercising device
An exercising device includes two hollow shells (10) combined with each other, one grip (20) mounted on each of the hollow shells, and one weight module (30) mounted in each of the hollow shells. Thus, the hollow shells can be combined together and separated from each other to function as a weighting ball, a push-up aid device and dumbbells, so that the exercising device has multiple functions to perform diverse exercising and bodybuilding motions.
US09216309B1 Adiabatic expansion nozzle design criteria
Design criteria are presented for an adiabatic expansion nozzle that overcomes previous deficiencies. The original patent demonstrated that dry ice could be produced, but the device clogged, was prone to fracture, and not optimized for any specific application Calculations are presented for a single application, the hand-held, 5-pound, carbon dioxide fire extinguisher. Design considerations for other fire sizes and firefighting applications are also presented.
US09216305B2 Core-shell-type cerium oxide microparticle, dispersion solution comprising the microparticle, and process for production of the microparticle or dispersion solution
An object of the present invention is to provide a core-shell-type cerium oxide microparticle, a dispersion solution comprising the microparticle, and a process for production of the microparticle or dispersion solution, and to achieve the object, the present invention provides a core-shell-type cerium oxide microparticle which has an average particle diameter of 30 to 200 nm and a coefficient of variation therein no greater than 0.25, and in which the secondary particle forming the core portion is spherical in shape and a polymer is attached to its surface, a dispersion solution of this cerium oxide microparticle and a dry powder from the cerium oxide microparticle dispersion solution, and a process of producing a core-shell-type cerium oxide microparticle or a dispersion solution thereof, which comprises the steps of: mixing a cerium salt and a polymer in an organic solvent to obtain a mixture; and heating this mixture under reflux at a prescribed temperature to precipitate core-shell-type cerium oxide microparticles, wherein the cerium salt is cerium nitrate and the particle diameter of the microparticles is adjusted using the molecular weight of the polymer.
US09216304B2 Method of depilation and depilatory kit
A method of removing hair from skin, preferably facial skin, is provided, comprising the steps of: (a) applying a hydrophobic protective composition to an area of skin, preferably facial skin, on which unwanted hair is growing, the hydrophobic protective composition comprising 20% or more, preferably 50% or more and more preferably from 75% to 99% of at least one triglyceride by weight of the hydrophobic protective composition, the or each triglyceride having the following formula:  wherein R, R′ and R″ may be the same as or different from one or both of the others, wherein each of R, R′ and R″ is a fatty acid and wherein the or each triglyceride is solid at 25° C. (b) applying a depilatory composition to the area of skin to which the hydrophobic protective composition has been applied, the depilatory composition comprising a keratin reducing agent.
US09216302B2 Radiotherapy system and radiotherapy planning apparatus
According to one embodiment, a radiotherapy apparatus generates counting data as a count value of photons included in a preset energy region based on an output signal from an observation detector. The radiotherapy apparatus generates medical image data based on the counting data.
US09216301B2 Balloon catheter and applicator with balloon catheter
Balloon catheter, applicator, particularly for invasive radiotherapy, and method of controlling the balloon catheter with respect to its shape and position in a tissue to be treated prior to an irradiation. The balloon catheter provides a catheter shaft for introducing a probe, an outer balloon and an inner balloon, disposed inside the outer balloon, the inner space of the inner balloon connecting to a channel for connection to a media inlet and intermediate space between the outer balloon and the inner balloon connecting to a channel for connection to a media storage unit. In order that the balloon catheter can be securely controlled with respect to its shape and position in a patient in a simple but clear manner prior to irradiation, the outer balloon is formed of a flexible, non-extendible material and the inner balloon is formed of a flexible, extendible material.
US09216299B2 Electromagnetic pathologic lesion treatment system and method
A method of treating a pathologic legion, such as an intravascular thrombus, is disclosed. The method comprises providing a guide wire and catheter with at least one inductive element within a blood vessel to a distal location associated with the pathologic lesion; and providing electromagnetic energy via at least one inductive element to the pathologic lesion to cause thrombolysis. Medicated magnetic particles can be endovascularly localized and concentrated to the vascular territory affected by the pathologic lesion.
US09216298B2 Leadless cardiac pacemaker system with conductive communication
A cardiac pacing system comprises multiple leadless cardiac pacemakers configured for implantation in electrical contact with a cardiac chamber and configured for multi-chamber cardiac pacing. The individual leadless cardiac pacemakers comprise at least two leadless electrodes configured for delivering cardiac pacing pulses, sensing evoked and/or natural cardiac electrical signals, and communicating bidirectionally among the leadless cardiac pacemaker plurality.
US09216295B2 Cardiac resynchronization therapy loss diagnostics
In some examples, an IMD provides CRT data that indicates an amount of time that CRT was not delivered by the IMD, such as the % CRT. In some examples, a CRT loss diagnosis module apportions the amount of time that CRT was not delivered amongst predetermined reasons for loss of CRT based on the CRT data and sensed cardiac data from the IMD. An external computing device may present a representation of the apportionment to a user, e.g., a clinician. The external computing device may also analyze the apportionment, and recommend programming changes for the delivery of CRT by the IMD based on the analysis.
US09216291B2 Method and apparatus for controlling neural stimulation during disordered breathing
A neural stimulation system controls the delivery of neural stimulation using a respiratory signal as a therapy feedback input. The respiratory signal is used to increase the effectiveness of the neural stimulation, such as vagal nerve stimulation, while decreasing potentially adverse side effects in respiratory functions. In one embodiment, the neural stimulation system detects apnea and, in response, adjusts the delivery of the neural stimulation pulses and/or delivers a respiratory therapy treating the detected apnea.
US09216286B2 Shielded implantable medical lead with guarded termination
Implantable medical leads include a shield that is guarded at a termination by having a first portion and second portion of the shield, where the first portion is between a termination of the shield at the second portion and an inner insulation layer surrounding the filars. The first portion may reduce the coupling of RF energy from the termination of the shield at the second portion to the filars. The first and second portions may be part of a continuous shield, where the first and second portions are separated by an inversion of the shield. The first and second portions may instead be separate pieces. The first portion may be noninverted residing between the termination at the second portion and inner layers, or the first portion may be inverted to create first and second sub-portions. The shield termination at the second portion is between the first and second sub-portions.
US09216283B2 Multi-area pacing lead for a left cavity of the heart, implantable in the coronary network
A multi-area pacing lead implantable in a target vein of the coronary network for stimulating a left cavity of the heart, comprising an electrically conductive microcable (12), an electrically insulating outer coating, and carrying at its distal end a free active portion containing a plurality of separate denuded areas forming a network of active stimulation electrodes (14, 16), intended to contact the wall of target veins. The active free portion has a proximal corrugated portion carrying a first set of electrodes (14), a distal corrugated portion carrying a second series of electrodes (16) and an intermediate portion (20) that traverses an anastomosis (22) connecting the ends of two veins (VA, VPL). Both sets of electrodes (14, 16) can thus be placed in two different veins, defining two remote stimulation areas.
US09216280B1 Endovascular electrode system for tissue stimulation
An electrical lead system includes a shaft to which a series of expandable ring electrodes are attached that follows the contour of the vascular or muscular structures of the heart, such as cardiac veins, arteries, atrial appendages and trabeculae, and provides sensing of electrical cardiac impulses, pacing and high voltage shock or defibrillation. The lead system uses a variety of energy sources to stimulate the heart, such as ultrasound, electromagnetic and electric impulses.
US09216279B2 Slide clamp and tubing set for an infusion pump
An infusion pump for metering fluid flow through an delivery tube of an infusion tubing set has an internal occlusion clamp which clamps the delivery tube to prevent the free flow of fluid through the tube when access to the delivery tube in the infusion pump is possible. To release the delivery tube from the infusion pump, a slide clamp is manually used to release the occlusion clamp to an open, non-occluding position while simultaneously occluding the delivery tube to prevent the free flow of fluid.
US09216278B2 Luer lock connection
The invention relates to a Luer lock connection comprising a Luer cone and a threaded sleeve surrounding said cone, the threaded sleeve being fitted on the base of the Luer cone so that it is rotatable along the longitudinal axis of said cone, wherein clamping means are provided between the threaded sleeve and the base of the Luer cone, said means being designed in such a way that when a female part is fitted onto the Luer cone, clamping between the threaded sleeve and the base of the Luer cone is achieved by rotating the threaded sleeve or the female part in the threaded sleeve (4).
US09216277B2 Hemostasis mechanism and method
A hemostasis mechanism includes a housing, and a pressure responsive seal positioned within the housing and having an outer seal surface exposed to a fluid pressure of a port formed in the housing. A pressurization device is in fluid communication with the port, and includes a detent having a release state, and an engaged state holding a plunger of the pressurization device at an advanced position to maintain an increased fluid pressure supplied to the pressure responsive seal to maintain sealing engagement about a transluminal device. Related methodology is also disclosed.
US09216275B2 Adjustable height hydrocephalus valve location device
An adjustable height tool for locating a magnetically readable and settable valve implanted in a living being. The locator can include a wall having a first perimeter. A platform can be disposed within the first perimeter. A valve cut-out can disposed within the platform and can approximate at least a portion of the shape of the valve. A movable foot can be disposed below the platform by which a displacement element moves the foot at least one of toward or away from the platform. This movement increases or decreases the distance between the platform and the skin/valve. Two or more recesses can be disposed in the foot and the recesses can be aligned with the valve cut-out. The displacement element can maintain the alignment of the recesses and the cut-out while moving the foot.
US09216270B2 Atraumatic arthroscopic instrument sheath and method
A removable, resilient atraumatic sheath for arthroscopic instruments. The sheath covers sharp edges on the arthroscopic instrument, particularly the distal tip of the rigid cannula, and thereby protects tissue and objects near a surgical site from accidental trauma. The sheath may be provided in the form of an inflow/outflow sheath that allows a surgeon to irrigate and drain a surgical field without the use of a separate irrigation instrument.
US09216269B2 Catheter set comprising guide wire
The present invention relates to a catheter set for nerve treatment used for delivering a stimulus or a drug to nerves in the human body. According to the present invention, the catheter set for nerve treatment includes: a catheter capable of delivering a drug to a target nerve through a tube line, having a tube shape; a cylindrical cannula for supporting the catheter when inserted into the body tissue while slidably accommodating the catheter inside; a conductive guide wire to be accommodated inside the catheter, having one exposed end; and a conductive first stimulator connector for delivering an electric stimulus to the one exposed end of the guide wire, electrically connected to the other end of the guide wire. Therefore, it is possible to accurately place the end of the catheter at the location of the target nerve, to prevent the end of the catheter from deviating from the target nerve during an operation, and to finely adjust the location of the catheter even after removing the cannula.
US09216267B2 Compact self-contained automated MDI adapters or units for ventilators
A system for providing automated delivery of medication to a ventilator circuit that extends between a mechanical ventilator and a patient includes a connector that resides in-line with a portion of the ventilator circuit, a portable medication delivery unit attached to the connector, and a control device in communication with the portable delivery unit. The portable delivery unit includes a housing releasably holding at least one metered dose inhaler canister containing medication and an actuator held by the housing and in communication with the canister to direct the canister to release medication to the ventilator circuit for the patient. The control device is configured to control an amount and/or frequency of medication delivery from the canister to the ventilator circuit for a respective patient and to direct the actuator to actuate to deliver the medication from the canister to the ventilator circuit at a defined amount and/or frequency.
US09216259B2 Methods and apparatus for delivering aerosolized medication
A pulmonary drug delivery device having one or more vortexing elements which impart beneficial flow characteristics to an inspiratory air flow carrying a medicament into the patient's lungs.
US09216258B2 Apparatus for accurately controlling needle extension
Devices are illustrated which provide for accurately controlling the extension of a needle from a protective sheath to increase accuracy and improve the outcome of the treatment procedure.
US09216257B2 Method and apparatus for guiding an external needle to an implantable device
A system to generate a navigation field relative to an implanted device is disclosed. The system can include a small and/or thin localizer array positioned in the implanted device. A power management scheme and circuits can be provided to conserve and resource power in the implanted device.
US09216254B2 Medical tape
An easy to use medical tape may have multiple layers including a first layer made of pressure absorbing materials such as flexible foam, and a needle resistant layer. The medical tape may further have a third layer made preferably of non-stick paper and a covering layer made preferably of vinyl. A medical professional making injections or performing an operation may cover his/her body or a patient's body with the medical tape to prevent needlestick injuries. Moreover, the medical tape may come in various shapes and sizes and may be cut into suitable pieces for different procedures.
US09216252B2 Applicator
An applicator comprising a transmission member, a housing guiding a reciprocation of the transmission member, and a cap covering the housing. The transmission member is provided with a stopper extending in a direction orthogonal to an axial direction thereof. An upper end of the housing is formed with a projection sliding the stopper. The inside of the cap is formed with a lead part. The stopper is slid by the lead part to an end part of the projection when the cap is pushed and thereafter disengages from the projection when the cap is further pushed, so that the transmission member transmits the biasing force of an elastic member to a microneedle. This enables the microneedle to be applied to skin.
US09216249B2 Infusion pumps
Ambulatory infusion pumps, pump assemblies, cartridges, baseplates, cannulas, insertion tools, and related components as well as combinations thereof and related methods.
US09216247B2 Buffered compositions for dialysis
Acid concentrates, and dialysate compositions prepared therefrom, contain citric acid and an effective amount of a buffering agent selected from acetate and/or lactate. The buffering agent allows a physiologically acceptable amount of citrate to maintain the desired pH of the dialysate.
US09216241B2 Medical device and method for producing the same
An object is to provide a medical device having excellent antithrombotic and sliding characteristics, which can exert a cell adhesion inhibitory effect. A medical device comprising: a substrate capable of forming hydroxyl groups; and a biocompatible material layer laminated on the substrate at an appropriate position, wherein the hydroxyl groups are formed on a surface of the substrate at least at a required position by a surface treatment, while the biocompatible material layer is formed from a polymer containing phosphorylcholine groups, and wherein the substrate and the biocompatible material layer are joined via a binder layer formed from silica being covalently bonded with the hydroxyl groups and the biocompatible material, respectively.
US09216240B2 Differential loading of drug-eluting medical devices
A medical device includes a substrate having at least one surface. The surface has a central portion and a peripheral portion. At least one bioactive agent is disposed over at least a portion of the surface. The medical device having a concentration gradient of the at least one bioactive between the central and peripheral portions.
US09216237B2 Electroactive polymer systems
A device includes a core, a membrane, at least one first electrode coupled to the core, at least one second electrode coupled to the core or the membrane and a collapsible electroactive polymer element. The collapsible polymer element is configured to extend from or extend around at least a portion of the core where the element is in an expanded configuration without application of a voltage and in a collapsed configuration with the application of the voltage or in a collapsed configuration without application of a voltage and in an expanded configuration with the application of the voltage. The voltage is applied via the at least one first electrode and the at least one second electrode. Other embodiments are disclosed.
US09216236B2 Natural tissue-derived decellularized matrix and methods of generating and using same
Decellularized tissue-derived extracellular matrices (ECM) and methods of generating and using same are provided. The method of generating a decellularized matrix includes the steps of: (a) subjecting the tissue to washes and a hypertonic buffer; (b) subjecting the tissue to an enzymatic proteolytic digestion with an enzyme such as trypsin; and (c) removing all cellular components from the tissue using a detergent solution which includes Triton-X-100 and ammonium hydroxide. Specifically, there is provided a decellularized myocardium-derived matrix which is completely devoid of all cellular components and hence non-immunogenic in a subject, exhibits suitable structural and mechanical properties for cardiac tissue engineering or replacement therapy of damaged cardiac tissue, and is capable of remodeling upon seeding of cells.
US09216233B2 Apparatus and method for capture and inactivation of microbes and viruses
An apparatus 100 includes an air path housing 10, a charging-unit high-voltage electrode 2 to charge airborne microorganisms introduced in the air path housing 10, a charging-unit ground electrode 3 disposed so as to face the charging-unit high-voltage electrode 2, a hydrophilic filter 6 to capture the airborne microorganisms charged by the charging-unit high-voltage electrode 2, a capturing/inactivating-unit high-voltage electrode 5 to polarize the hydrophilic filter 6, and a capturing/inactivating-unit ground electrode 7 disposed so as to face the capturing/inactivating-unit high-voltage electrode 5.
US09216231B2 Sterilization apparatus and method for controlling of a sterilization apparatus
The invention relates to a sterilization apparatus (10) and to a method for the sterilization of an object (7) by a gaseous or liquid fluid comprising: a sterilization chamber (8) in which the object (7) is positioned, at least an acceleration device (2) for accelerating the fluid to a predetermined flow-speed, at least a filter device (3) for separating particles from the fluid, characterized in that the sterilization apparatus further comprises at least an orifice device (4) providing a plurality of openings, and a control apparatus for determining the flow-speed of the fluid on the basis of a pressure difference (Δp).
US09216229B2 IgE CH3 peptide vaccine
The present invention relates to the provision of novel immunogens comprising an antigenic IgE peptide preferably linked to an immunogenic carrier for the prevention, treatment or alleviation of IgE-mediated disorders. The invention further relates to methods for production of these medicaments, immunogenic compositions and pharmaceutical compositing thereof and their use in medicine.
US09216223B2 Protein matrix vaccines and methods of making and administering such vaccines
The invention relates to vaccine compositions having a carrier protein and an antigen of interest entrapped in a complex, methods of making such vaccines, and methods of vaccine administration.
US09216220B2 Compositions and methods for thermo-sensitive nanoparticles and magnetic nanoparticles
Provided herein are systems, methods, and compositions for polymer nanoparticles and polymer magnetic nanoparticles. More particularly, the polymer nanoparticles and polymer magnetic nanoparticles are temperature sensitive and responsive to a first temperature.
US09216216B2 LprG as a chaperone of immune adjuvants
An adjuvant combination that stimulates immune activation or response includes a hydrophobic immune adjuvant and a pathogen derived lipoprotein that chaperones the hydrophobic immune adjuvant to an immune receptor.
US09216215B2 Adjuvant system for vaccine adjuvant
The present invention provides adjuvant compositions that have improved stability, increased potency and which provide an enhanced Th1 response. The present invention also provides methods of making those compositions and administration of the improved adjuvant compositions.
US09216214B2 Replication-competent adenoviral vectors
This invention provides improved replication-competent adenoviral vectors. The improved vectors have both a hybrid regulatory unit that provides for high level transgene expression. The vectors can be use, e.g., for therapeutic or prophylactic purposes.
US09216213B2 Adjuvanted rabies vaccine with improved viscosity profile
The present invention relates to adjuvanted recombinant anti-rabies vaccines and the oral administration of such vaccines to raccoons and other wildlife. Advantageously, the anti-rabies vaccine may comprise a recombinant vaccinia virus containing a rabies glycoprotein gene. The invention encompasses methods of vaccinating raccoons and other wildlife by administration of an anti-rabies vaccines which may comprise a recombinant vaccinia virus containing a rabies glycoprotein gene, in combination with an adjuvant which increases both vaccine viscosity and efficacy. The invention provides effective oral recombinant vaccines used in oral rabies vaccination (ORV) programs for wildlife, effective at protecting raccoons, gray foxes, coyotes, and other animals.
US09216212B2 Virus-like particles as vaccines for paramyxovirus
The invention provides expression vectors and virus-like particles (VLPs) containing Newcastle Disease Virus Sequences in combination with sequences encoding proteins of interest. The vectors are useful in, for example, generating virus-like particles (VLPs) that contain proteins of interest. In one embodiment, the expressed VLPs elicit an immune response by an animal host against the protein. The invention's VLPs are useful as, for example, vaccines.
US09216204B2 Bone targeted therapeutics and methods of making and using the same
The present invention provides novel bisphosphonate conjugates, pharmaceutical compositions comprising bisphosphonate conjugates and methods of using such analogs in the treatment of bone cancer, bone-related diseases, bone infection, bone inflammation, and diseases of the soft tissues surrounding bones.
US09216202B2 Methods and compositions for selecting cells with increased potency
The present invention relates generally to compositions for wound closure. More specifically, the present invention provides human skin equivalents engineered to express exogenous polypeptides (e.g., antimicrobial polypeptides and keratinocyte growth factor 2) and compositions and methods for making human skin equivalents engineered to express exogenous polypeptides. In addition, the present invention provides methods for treatment of wounds with human skin equivalents engineered to express exogenous polypeptides.
US09216199B2 Nutritional supplement containing phospholipid-DHA derived from eggs
Described herein are manufactured dietary supplements that contain a phospholipid extract derived from eggs, where the extract contains phospholipid-docosahexaenoic acid derived from eggs, folate, vitamin D, vitamin B6, vitamin B12, vitamin C, calcium, iron, N-Acetyl-L-Cysteine, iodine, and magnesium.Described herein are manufactured dietary supplements that contain a phospholipid extract derived from eggs and the extract contains two forms of phospholipid-docosahexaenoic acid derived from eggs. One form of phospholipid-docosahexaenoic acid is phosphatidylcholine-docosahexaenoic acid, and another form of phospholipid-docosahexaenoic acid is phosphatidylethanolamine-docosahexaenoic acid. And the phospholipid extract has less than about 3% by weight of free triglycerides.
US09216195B2 Bone treatment systems and methods
The present disclosure relates to bone cement formulations that have an extended working time for use in vertebroplasty procedures and other osteoplasty procedures together with cement injectors that include energy delivery systems for on-demand control of cement viscosity and flow parameters. The bone cement formulations may include a liquid component having at least one monomer and a non-liquid component including polymer particles and benzoyl peroxide (BPO). The non-liquid component may be further configured to allow controlled exposure of the BPO to the liquid monomer so as to enable control of the viscosity of the bone cement composition.
US09216194B2 Composite material for tissue repair
The present disclosure provides a biocompatible composite and method for its use in repairing tissue defects, including defects in cartilage. The biocompatible composite includes a fibrous polymeric component and a polymerizable agent, which is capable of forming the biocompatible composite in situ at the site of a tissue defect. In embodiments, the repair site at which the biocompatible composite is to be applied may be treated with a priming agent, permitting polymerization of the polymerizable agent to the tissue located at the repair site.
US09216191B2 Methods and composition for inducing satiety
A flowable or spoonable medicament, food, food ingredient or food supplement is useful for inducing satiety. It comprises (a) one or more mono-, di- and/or oligosaccharides and (b) a methylcellulose, wherein the methylcellulose has anhydroglucose units joined by 1-4 linkages wherein hydroxy groups of anhydroglucose units are substituted with methyl groups such that s23/s26 is from 0.17 to 0.36, wherein s23 is the molar fraction of anhydroglucose units wherein only the two hydroxy groups in the 2- and 3-positions of the anhydroglucose unit are substituted with methyl groups and wherein s26 is the molar fraction of anhydroglucose units wherein only the two hydroxy groups in the 2- and 6-positions of the anhydroglucose unit are substituted with methyl groups.
US09216186B2 Combination of a pyrroloquinoline compound and an aminoglycodise antimicrobial agent
This invention relates to the use of 4-methyl-8-phenoxy-1-(2-phenylethyl)-2,3-dihydro-1H-pyrrolo[3,2-c]quinoline or a pharmaceutically acceptable derivative thereof in combination with an aminoglycoside antimicrobial agent for the prevention and/or treatment of microbial infections.
US09216182B2 Carbamate/urea derivatives containing piperidin and piperazin rings as H3 receptor inhibitors
The invention relates to compound of the formula I (I) or a salt thereof, wherein the substituents are as defined in the specification; to its preparation and to medicaments comprising it for treating diseases connected to the inhibition of H3 receptor.
US09216180B2 Pharmaceutical compositions and treatment of genetic diseases associated with nonsense mediated RNA decay
The present invention relates to pharmaceutical compositions comprising a compound and a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier. The present invention is also directed to a method of treating a genetic disease caused by premature termination codons, or other conditions that render messenger ribonucleic acid (mRNA) susceptible to nonsense mediated RNA decay, in a subject. Also disclosed is a method of inhibiting nonsense mediated RNA decay and/or induction of autophagy. The present invention also relates to a method of identifying inhibitors of nonsense mediated RNA decay and/or inducing autophagy. The present invention further relates to a method of inhibiting nonsense mediated RNA decay and/or induction of autophagy in a subject.
US09216179B2 Treatment of gout and hyperuricemia
Sodium 2-(5-bromo-4-(4-cyclopropylnaphthalen-1-yl)-4H-1,2,4-triazol-3-ylthio)acetate is described. In addition, pharmaceutical compositions and uses of such compositions for the treatment of a variety of diseases and conditions are described.
US09216178B2 Dry blend formulation of tetrahydrobiopterin
Dry blend powder formulations comprising a pharmaceutical formulation containing tetrahydrobiopterin, and methods of making and using the same, are disclosed herein.
US09216159B2 Increased effectiveness of allylamine drug compounds for topical treatment of fungal infections of the skin and skin appendages
The invention is an increased effectiveness of allylamine drug compounds for topical treatment of fungal infections of skin and skin appendages. The allylamine active ingredient is prepared in an acidic environment; the acidic environment altering the physiochemical properties of the active ingredient resulting in the active ingredient having a positive charge. The positive charge and enhancers used in the formula allow for increased penetration of the active ingredient through skin and skin appendages. The positively charged active ingredients are either dissolved in the vehicle directly or dissolved in a plurality of beads suspended in the vehicle. The bead structure minimizes the molecular diffusion of the positively charged active ingredient and a catalytic species through the bead structure, thus stabilizes the positively charged active ingredient inside the bead by impeding the interaction of the positively charged active ingredient and the catalytic species, and thereby extending the shelf life of the positively charged active ingredient.
US09216155B2 Synthetic nanostructures including nucleic acids and/or other entities
Articles, compositions, kits, and methods relating to nanostructures, including synthetic nanostructures, are provided. Certain embodiments described herein include structures having a core-shell type arrangement; for instance, a nanostructure core may be surrounded by a shell including a material, such as a lipid bilayer, and may include other components such as oligonucleotides. In some embodiments, the structures, when introduced into a subject, can be used to deliver nucleic acids and/or can regulate gene expression. Accordingly, the structures described herein may be used to diagnose, prevent, treat or manage certain diseases or bodily conditions. In some cases, the structures are both a therapeutic agent and a diagnostic agent.
US09216151B2 Use of PUFAS for treating skin inflammation
The present invention provides a compound which is a polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) derivative of formula (I), or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt, or solvate thereof, for use in treating various skin disorders.
US09216149B2 Solid, color-stable L-ascorbic acid compositions
The present invention relates to solid, color-stable L-ascorbic acid compositions, which are in the form of a powder or granule. These improved compositions have a high amount of vitamin C and they have excellent color stability.
US09216147B2 Mild cosmetic cleansing composition
A mild cosmetic cleansing agent includes in a suitable carrier a) 1 to 6 wt. % of at least one anionic surfactant of the following formula (I), in which R1 denotes a linear or branched, saturated or unsaturated alkyl residue having 6 to 30 carbon atoms, at least one of the residues R2 to R5 denotes a C1-C4 alkyl residue, and the other residues independently of one another denote a hydrogen atom or a C1-C4 alkyl residue, and M+ denotes an ammonium, alkanolammonium or metal cation, b) 2 to 10 wt. % of at least one amphoteric and/or zwitterionic surfactant and c) 0.5 to 10 wt. % of at least one non-ionic surfactant and/or at least one non-ionic emulsifier, selected from at least one of the following groups of alkyl (oligo)glycosides, amine oxides and/or glycerol mono- and/or di(C6-C24) carboxylic acid esters, wherein the stated amounts relate to the total weight.
US09216143B2 Liquid personal cleansing composition
A stable, multiphase liquid isotropic cleansing composition is described that contains high levels of Petrolatum and shows a substantial decrease in reflectance compared with isotropic cleansing compositions containing other oils and liquid crystalline compositions with similar levels of oils. The inventive composition has a total of less than 2% by wt. of other oils such as glyceride, mineral and silicone oils, or blends thereof.
US09216142B2 High-glass transition temperature absorbable microspheres
Absorbable microspheres comprising a copolymer formed from greater than 80 to about 99 mole percent D,L-lactideg, L(−)-lactide, D(+)-lactide, or meso-lactide and combinations thereof, and about 1 to less than 20 mole percent of a different second monomer selected from the group consisting of p-dioxanone and trimethylene carbonate and combinations thereof, said microspheres having a particle size ranging from about 5 to 2000 microns. Also described herein are formulations comprising such absorbable microspheres.
US09216140B2 Process for producing resin composition and process for producing molded article
A medical resin composition is produced by mixing a powder of a polymer (A) comprising repeating units having an ester group and a liquid of a vinyl ester monomer (B) having 6 or more carbon atoms to increase a viscosity and, according to demand, further performing a polymerization reaction. The thus produced resin composition inhibits leaching of irritative substances, reduces any adverse effects on the human body by endocrine disruptors, etc. and can be prepared with high operational efficiency. The resin composition is suitably used as a dental resin composition such as a tissue conditioner, a functional impression material, a lining material, a denture base material or a mouth piece material.
US09216139B2 Method for producing liposomal drugs and a device for producing a liposome
The essence of the invention is that an aqueous medium is mixed with a lipid component (lipid solution in an organic solvent) by the ejecting introduction (suction) of the lipid component (lipid solution in an organic solvent) into an ejector mixing chamber in the form of a de Laval nozzle by means of the energy from a pressurized jet of the aqueous medium flowing out of the inlet nozzle of the ejector, which jet creates a pressure drop in the convergent part (confuser) of the mixing chamber, wherein an aerosol stream of liposome is formed at the outlet of the divergent part (diffuser) of the mixing chamber.
US09216137B2 Medical organizer
Implementations of a medical organizer are provided. In some implementations, the medical organizer may be used to track a patients current medications. In some implementations, the medical organizer may provide both written and visual information (e.g., medication samples, images of the medication) regarding a patient's current medications, allergies, or any other medical information. A medical organizer comprises a body portion having a spine, a flap, a first set of pockets, and a second set of pockets. In some implementations, the first set of pockets may be configured to receive medication therein. In some implementations, one or more of the first set of pockets may also be configured to receive an insert. In some implementations, the second set of pockets may be configured to receive inserts therein. In some implementations, an insert may have thereon patient information (e.g., name, date of birth, address) and/or information related to prescription medications and allergies.
US09216136B2 Apparatus and method for administering pain relief
An apparatus for administering pain relief has at least one quartz crystal disposed proximate an energizable vibratory element in a support structure for positioning the quartz-crystal-and-vibratory-element combination proximate the head region of an individual. A pair of support structures each having a quartz-crystal-and-vibratory-element combination is mounted upon a shoulder harness in spaced-apart relationship with respect to one another. An energizable lighting structure having a substantially linear series of illuminating elements is disposed in an arced relationship with respect to the quartz-crystal-and-vibratory-element combination. In a method of administering pain relief the apparatus is positioned proximate the head region of an individual, and the vibratory element and the lighting structure are both energized.
US09216132B2 Balance device
A device that supports a motion for restoring an inclination angle of a body to a reference direction is provided. A balance device includes a sensor, at least one flywheel, and a controller. The sensor is configured to detect an inclination angle of the body with respect to the reference direction. The at least one flywheel is arranged on the balance device so that an axis of the flywheel is non-parallel to a yaw axis of the body when the balance device is attached to a user. The yaw axis of the body corresponds to a longitudinal direction of the body. In addition, the yaw axis coincides with the reference direction when the user stands erect. The controller is configured to change a rotation rate of the flywheel based on an inclination angle detected by the sensor.
US09216131B2 Walking assist device
To provide a walking assist device which can apply torque to a knee joint at a suitable timing. A walking assist device includes an actuator, a reaction force sensor and an angle sensor. The walking assist device is fitted to a user's leg. The actuator is able to apply torque to a knee joint of one leg of the user. The reaction force sensor detects a reaction force that the foot of the one leg receives from the floor. The angle sensor detects a hip joint angle of the one leg around a pitch axis. The walking assist device specifies a timing to start applying the torque to the knee joint in a direction that swings the lower leg backward, based on the detected reaction force and the detected hip joint angle.
US09216123B2 Bed with pivotable bed surface
A central bed having a single longitudinal bed frame and a bed section mounted to the frame for rotation about a substantially vertical axis between a home position aligned with the bed frame and an away position and with a lower leg bed section that is movable away from the central bed section to enable rotation of the central bed section.
US09216120B2 Manual shopping chair
The manual shopping chair includes a frame supported by a left rear wheel, a right rear wheel, a left front caster wheel and a right front caster wheel. A wheel lock disk with a plurality of radially extending slots is connected to each rear wheel. Springs urge lock bars toward the slots to lock both wheels. The lock bars are manually held out of the slots during movement. A mast is clamped to the frame front. A pair of basket support tubes are pivotally attached to the mast by a shaft in vertical slots. A basket is clamped to basket tubes. The basket is pivotable from a storage position to an upright position. Hooks hold the support tubes in an upright position. The mast top edge is lower than a seat mounted on the frame for nesting multiple shopping units.
US09216119B2 Absorbent article for pet animals and package thereof
An absorbent article and a package thereof are provided for a pet animal without a possibility that a fastener might be exposed on the outer side of the article. The absorbent article includes an absorbent panel and a fastener for fastening the absorbent panel. The absorbent panel has an absorbent region in which an absorbent body is disposed, a first non-absorbent region extending from the absorbent region to a first end edge and a second non-absorbent region extending from the absorbent region to a second end edge. The fastener is allocated on an exterior surface in the first non-absorbent region and releasably grabbed by the exterior surface of the absorbent panel except the first non-absorbent region to maintain such folded state when the absorbent panel is folded until the interior surface of the first non-absorbent region faces the interior surface of the second non-absorbent region.
US09216118B2 Absorbent articles with channels and/or pockets
The present disclosure is directed, in part, to an absorbent article comprising an absorbent core enclosing an absorbent material comprising superabsorbent polymers. The absorbent core comprises a first channel and a second channel, both of which are substantially free of the superabsorbent polymers and are at least partially oriented in a longitudinal direction of the article. The first and second channels each have lateral widths taken parallel to a lateral axis. The absorbent core comprises a pocket that is substantially free of the superabsorbent polymers and that has a portion on a longitudinal axis of the article. The pocket has lateral widths taken parallel to the lateral axis. A profile of the sum of the lateral widths of the first and second channels and the lateral widths of the pocket over a longitudinal length of at least 50 mm taken along the longitudinal axis has two separate substantially constant portions.
US09216116B2 Absorbent articles with channels
The present disclosure is directed, in part, to an absorbent article comprising an absorbent core disposed at least partially intermediate the topsheet and the backsheet and comprising a core wrap enclosing an absorbent material. The core wrap comprises a first material and a second material. The first material forms a C-wrap at least partially around the second material. The absorbent material comprises at least 80% of superabsorbent polymers by weight of the absorbent material. The absorbent core comprises a channel substantially free of the superabsorbent polymers and at least partially oriented in a longitudinal direction of the article. The channel has an arcuate portion facing a longitudinal axis of the article. An angle between a tangent line of the arcuate portion and the longitudinal axis is greater than or equal to 20 degrees.
US09216107B2 Ocular implant delivery systems and methods
Described herein are delivery devices and methods of using the devices for delivering an ocular implant into a suprachoroidal space without use of a goniolens. The delivery device includes a handle including a channel extending from a proximal end of the handle to a distal end of the handle, an applier coupled to the handle, the applier including a blunt distal tip and an elongate, flexible wire insertable through a fluid channel of an ocular implant, and a fiber optic image bundle reversibly inserted through the channel such that the fiber optic image bundle extends to a region proximal to the blunt distal tip of the applier.
US09216106B2 Device and method for the delivery of drugs for the treatment of posterior segment disease
Hydrogel lenses are infused with a drug for the treatment of posterior segment disease. The lenses are placed in contact with the subject's cornea. Drugs can be passively released from the hydrogel and can migrate around the globe of the eye to the posterior segment.
US09216105B2 Rectocele and cystocele device
A recto-cystocele device to address rectocele and cystocele disorder is described. The device generally comprise a handle and a paddle that are distinguished from one another by a bend in the recto-cystocele device which forms essentially an L-shaped unit, the bend possessing a sufficient radius to avoid contact with a pelvic region of the woman and the recto-cystocele device. The device further comprises an expandable sheath located on the paddle that after being inserted in a vagina of the woman and is expanded therein is in contact with at least an upper portion of the vagina that includes a posterior fornix of the vagina and a lower portion of the vagina that does not include the posterior fornix. The handle, which does not go into the vagina, is adapted to be manually manipulated by the woman to translate directional pressure against the posterior fornix and the lower portion of the vagina via the expandable sheath when expanded.
US09216103B2 Extraoral nasal molding headgear device for the treatment of cleft lip and palate
The present invention is a device for pre-surgical treatment of cleft lip and cleft palate. The device is extraoral thus reducing the risk associated with existing devices and technologies that are intraoral, such as, for example utilizing a Nasoalveolar Molding (NAM) appliance. The adjustable extraoral nasal molding appliance of the present invention consists of an adjustable and securable head fastener, a front connector with a forehead rest pad, a rod support having an aperture through which a rod is slidably connected, a fastener for locking a rod in a set position, the rod, a spring and at least one nasal bulb. Different shaped springs can be attached for treating unilateral as well as bilateral cleft lip and palate patients. Different nasal bulbs can be attached for treating unilateral as well as bilateral cleft lip and palate patients.
US09216102B2 Loading apparatus and system for expandable intraluminal medical devices
Medical device loading apparatuses, systems, methods and kits are described. A loading apparatus comprises a main body having a proximal end defining a proximal opening, a distal end defining a distal opening, and a passageway extending between the proximal and distal openings. An expandable intraluminal medical device can be loaded into a delivery catheter using the loading apparatus by placing the device into the passageway such that it is in a radially-expanded configuration; pulling the device along an axial path through the loading apparatus such that the device transitions from the radially-expanded configuration to a radially-compressed configuration; and pushing the radially-compressed device along the axial path into the delivery catheter.
US09216101B2 Dual taper stent protector
A dual taper stent protector having a first stent covering region configured to cover a stent without substantially engaging the stent, a second covering region, and an engagement region for engaging a product mandrel removably disposed within a catheter shaft, and first and second tapered regions connecting the first stent covering region and the second stent covering region and the second covering region and the engagement region respectively, and to methods of making and using the same.
US09216099B2 Method and apparatus of an integrated gel sealing liner
A gel liner made by starting initially with a one-piece knitted tubular sock-shaped fabric having a closed distal end section of gel impermeable knitted fabric and an open proximal end section of gel impermeable knitted fabric and being a gel permeable loosely knitted fabric. Molding the liner to have a gel cushion layer on its interior surface with the gel passing through and partially embedding the yarns of the proximal fabric section with the outermost portions of the yarns free of gel to form at least one annular seal whereby the proximal end section forming a seal not inhibited in deformation and/or elongation by the fabric when the liner is worn thereby reducing or eliminating any twisting or discomfort of the liner during ambulation caused by the annular seal.
US09216097B2 Ligament-tensioning device
A ligament-tensioning device for activation of the ligament and/or capsule system in the implantation of a joint implant, comprising a distal bearing plate for bearing against a distal skeletal part and comprising first and second proximal bearing plates, each of which partially overlaps the distal bearing plate in a first in-use position, for bearing against a proximal skeletal part, and comprising means for relative displacement of the proximal bearing plates to increase their spacing from the distal bearing plate. The displacement means comprise a scissor-type guide means that supports the respective proximal bearing plate in the ventral-dorsal as well as the medial-lateral parallel position with respect to the distal bearing plate.
US09216094B2 Expandable spinal interbody fusion device and inserter
An elongate inserter has a distal end releasably connected to an expandable interbody fusion device and a proximal end including a trigger actuator. The interbody fusion device comprises a superior endplate and an inferior endplate that are movable in an expansion direction relative to each other in the intradiscal space. The device includes an elevator captively supported between the inferior endplate and the superior endplate for movement independently toward and away from each of the inferior endplate and the superior endplate. The inserter includes a lifting platform that defines lifting surfaces that upon operation of the trigger actuator cooperatively engage complementary lifting surfaces on the elevator and move the inferior endplate away from the superior endplate. A driver is supported by the inserter for pushing an insert into the expanded device between the superior and inferior endplates.
US09216090B2 Joint implant trial components
A humeral component of a prosthesis comprises a stem module for fixing the prosthesis into a bone. A joint adapter can be attached, preferably under different angles to the stem module. The joint adapter holds a liner having a recessed spherical cavity, which is the cup of the joint. The joint adapter has an inner surface and a circumferential groove. The liner has an outer surface including a circular recess. This circular recess preferably is concentric to the major body diameter of the liner for interfacing with the circumferential groove of the joint adapter. Furthermore, the liner has a radial slit, which allows compression of the liner for easy insertion and removal. This allows inserting different liners with different sizes thus allowing to try out different sizes to find the best size for the patient. When the best size has been identified, a final liner without a slit may be inserted.
US09216089B2 Method of surgically preparing a patient's tibia
Methods of surgically preparing a patient's tibia are disclosed. Some methods include positioning a guide tower on a surgically-prepared proximal surface above an opening of a medullary canal of the patient's tibia, attaching a stem trial to a lower end of an offset tool that is sized to be received in the guide tower, and advancing the stem trial through the guide tower and the surgically-prepared proximal surface into the medullary canal. The method may include moving the guide tower to a desired offset orientation on the surgically-prepared proximal surface and advancing a reamer through the guide tower into the medullary canal. The method may also include positioning a tibial base trial on the surgically-prepared proximal surface based on the desired offset orientation.
US09216088B2 Knee prosthesis including rotatable spine
A knee joint prosthesis is disclosed. The knee joint prosthesis can include a tibial baseplate, a tibial insert, and a spine. The tibial baseplate can include a tibial plateau, having a proximal surface and an opposing distal surface, and a tibial stem extending from the distal surface of the tibial plateau. The tibial insert can be located on the proximal surface of the tibial plateau and can include an aperture. The spine can extend through the aperture of the tibial insert and into a cavity of the tibial stem, from the proximal surface of the tibial plateau. The spine can be rotatable with respect to the tibial baseplate and the tibial insert. The knee joint prosthesis can further include a femoral component including a posteriorly-located femoral cam. The posteriorly-located femoral cam can engage the spine during movement of the knee joint prosthesis.
US09216086B2 Adjustable provisional component of a medical device
An adjustable provisional component for an implantable medical device comprises a first portion mountable to a first part of a patient, and a second portion coupled to the first portion, wherein at least one of the first portion and the second portion is adjustable to select a value of a first geometric parameter of the adjustable provisional component.
US09216084B2 Patient-specific craniofacial implants
Disclosed herein are patient-specific craniofacial implants structured for filling bone voids in the cranium as well as for simultaneously providing soft tissue reconstruction and/or augmentation for improved aesthetic symmetry and appearance. Pterional voids or defects generally result from a chromic skull deformity along with a compromised temporalis muscle or soft tissue distortion from previous surgery. When muscle atrophy occurs in the pterion, temporal hollowing generally results where there would be soft tissue but for the atrophy. The patient-specific temporal implants herein are configured to have an augmented region adjacent the temporal region of the cranium in order to account for and correct any such temporal hollowing.
US09216083B2 Implants for creating connections to tissue parts, in particular to skeletal parts, as well as device and method for implantation thereof
A method for locating a material having thermoplastic properties in pores of bone tissue includes providing a pin having the material having thermoplastic properties and a core, wherein the material having thermoplastic properties is arranged on the circumferential surface of the core constituting an outer region of the pin. An opening is provided in the bone tissue, and the pin is positioned at least partly in the opening. The outer region of the pin is then impinged with mechanical vibration energy for a time sufficient for liquefying at least part of the material having thermoplastic properties, and, in a liquefied state, pressing it into the pores of the bone tissue surrounding the opening. The vibration energy is stopped for a time sufficient for re-solidification of the liquefied material, and then the core is removed.
US09216082B2 Stent-valves for valve replacement and associated methods and systems for surgery
Stent-valves (e.g., single-stent-valves and double-stent-valves), associated methods and systems for their delivery via minimally-invasive surgery, and guide-wire compatible closure devices for sealing access orifices are provided.
US09216077B2 Medical constructs of twisted lengths of collagen fibers and methods of making same
Medical constructs that have a plurality of NDGA-treated collagen fibers twisted together to provide strands that are twisted together into implantable cords. The cords are suitable to treat orthopaedic and other conditions and can be degradeable over time. Related and methods of twisting the collagen fibers as groups or bundles of fibers to form the medical constructs are described.
US09216072B2 Drug-containing personal hygiene implement
To provide an economical and sanitary drug-containing personal hygiene implement that is easy to produce and manage, and has an excellent portability even when both personal hygiene implement and drug are used away from home.The drug-containing personal hygiene implement includes a bottle body in which a drug is stored, a personal hygiene body which has a shaft section and a distal-end personal hygiene section, protrudes to a distal-end side of the bottle body, and is used to implement care of a human body, and a passage provided on a distal-end section of the bottle body and guiding the stored drug to the personal hygiene body, the implement being characterized in that opening operation makes it possible for the drug to flow through the passage in the bottle body.
US09216068B2 Optics for video cameras on a surgical visualization system
A surgical device includes a plurality of cameras integrated therein. The view of each of the plurality of cameras can be integrated together to provide a composite image. A surgical tool that includes an integrated camera may be used in conjunction with the surgical device. The image produced by the camera integrated with the surgical tool may be associated with the composite image generated by the plurality of cameras integrated in the surgical device. The position and orientation of the cameras and/or the surgical tool can be tracked, and the surgical tool can be rendered as transparent on the composite image. A surgical device may be powered by a hydraulic system, thereby reducing electromagnetic interference with tracking devices.
US09216063B2 Apparatus and method for collecting reusable material and cleaning surgical instruments
A system and method for cleaning instruments, which provides removal and collection of material from one or more surgical instruments. The cleaning apparatus may be a dry cleaning process or offered in conjunction with one or more fluids. In one embodiment, the cleaning apparatus continuously purges blood, bone and other debris quickly and may comprise a system for removing reusable material from the cleaning process for reuse.
US09216062B2 Seals and sealing methods for a surgical instrument having an articulated end effector actuated by a drive shaft
Sealing assemblies and methods are disclosed for sealing a surgical instrument having an internal drive shaft subject to lateral displacement. A sealing assembly includes a rigid portion shaped to interface with an instrument shaft of the surgical instrument. A laterally oriented slot is open at a radially perimeter location and configured to receive an o-ring seal via the perimeter location. Apertures are disposed on opposing sides of the slot and open to the slot. The apertures are configured to receive the drive shaft there through and are larger than the drive shaft to accommodate lateral displacement of the drive shaft. The slot includes opposing internal sides spaced to interface with opposed axial surfaces of the o-ring seal. The seal inhibits axial transmission of an insufflated gas and/or bodily fluids while accommodating lateral displacement of the drive shaft.
US09216060B2 Steerable laser probe
A steerable laser probe may include a handle having a handle, a housing sleeve, a first portion of the housing sleeve having a first stiffness, a second portion of the housing sleeve having a second stiffness, an actuation control of the handle, an optic fiber disposed in an inner bore of the handle and the housing sleeve, and a shape memory wire having a pre-formed curve. An actuation of the actuation control may be configured to gradually curve the housing sleeve and the optic fiber. An actuation of the actuation control may be configured to gradually straighten the housing sleeve and the optic fiber.
US09216057B2 Steerable catheter system and method of using a steerable catheter system to dissect and evacuate tissue
A steerable catheter system is provided including an elongated shaft having a proximal end, a distal end and an outer surface. The outer surface includes at least one cavity configured to facilitate movement of the distal end relative to the proximal end so as to steer the elongated shaft. A catheter tip is attached to the distal end of the shaft. The catheter tip comprises a curved body having at least one RF cutting edge and at least one non-cutting area recessed from the at least one cutting edge.
US09216055B2 Systems, devices and methods for treating the heart with ablation
A system (60) for ablating internal heart tissue (12) in an ablation pattern (50) on a surface of the tissue within the heart. The system (60) includes an ablation catheter (14) with a distal end having an ablating tip portion (20) operative to allow selective ablation of tissue. A guiding device (62) is engageable with the ablation catheter (14) and includes a tissue anchoring portion (74) operable to engage with tissue proximate to the tissue to be ablated so as to temporarily anchor the guiding device (62) relative to the tissue (12). Engagement of the guiding device (62) with the ablation catheter (14) operates to assist with guiding the ablating tip portion (20) in moving along the pattern (50). Various devices and methods of use are further disclosed.
US09216051B2 Electrosurgical assembly and electrosurgical instrument
An electrosurgical assembly is disclosed having an electrosurgical instrument, a detection device for detecting a predetermined constituent of the atmosphere in the region of a treatment site and a treatment unit, which can be connected to the instrument and a current generator for providing RF energy. The treatment unit includes a mechanism for influencing the treatment process depending on an output signal of the detection device.
US09216049B2 Systems and methods for implant removal
Implant removal systems and methods for using the system for removing an implant from a bone are disclosed herein. In an embodiment, a method for removing an intramedullary implant from a bone includes navigating a guidewire into an intramedullary cavity of the bone; inserting the guidewire into a lumen of an intramedullary implant located in the intramedullary cavity of the bone; advancing a removal screw over the guidewire to the intramedullary implant; threading the removal screw into the lumen of the intramedullary implant to engage the removal screw to the intramedullary implant; and applying impaction force on the removal screw to remove the intramedullary implant from the intramedullary cavity.
US09216047B2 Surgical cable tensioning apparatus and method
A cable tensioning apparatus and method are provided for positioning and tensioning a surgical cable to skeletal tissue or to implants. The invention is most applicable for securing surgical cable and/or orthopedic implants to bone in orthopedic surgery. A linearly translated drive rod attached to cable is driven by a friction drive to create tension on the surgical cable.
US09216046B2 Methods and devices for bone preparation
A manifold has at least one manifold aperture extending therethrough and selectively placed in fluid communication with a fluid source. An insertion structure has at least one interior cavity at least partially defined by a structure shell and is selectively placed in fluid communication with a corresponding manifold aperture. The insertion structure is configured for selective placement in a penetrating relationship with a patient tissue below a surface of the patient tissue. At least one shell perforation extends through the structure shell and places the interior cavity in fluid communication with a surrounding ambient space. At least one fluid path extends from the fluid source, through the manifold aperture, into the interior cavity, through at least one shell perforation, and at least one of a proximate relationship and a contacting relationship with the patient tissue beneath the outer surface thereof. A fluid is directed along the fluid path.
US09216045B2 Method of producing a porous bone screw
A bone screw and method of producing the same is described. The method of producing a bone screw includes forming a one-piece headless screw body out of a rigid metallic foam that is entirely porous throughout and defines a plurality of inter-connected pores having a size of about 30 to about 500 microns in diameter. The method includes providing at least one thread on an external surface of the screw body, and forming a bore extending through an entire axial length of the screw body, the bore forming a cannula that defines an annular radial wall thickness of the screw body. The method further includes disposing the inter-connected pores throughout the radial wall thickness of the screw body such as to allow for bone in-growth through the full radial wall thickness and into the cannula.
US09216044B2 Stripped pedicle screw driver bit
A pedicle screw driver bit includes an elongated shank and a head. The shank includes a plurality of threads. The head is connected to one end of and configured to rotate relative to the shank. The head is configured to be received by a tulip connected to a pedicle screw. The threads of the shank are configured to engage a plurality of threads of the tulip such that when the shank is rotated the tulip is drawn into engagement with the head such that the shank, the head, the tulip, and the pedicle screw are substantially prevented from rotating relative to one another.
US09216038B2 Device for osteosynthesis of the thoracic wall
A device made up of a textile tubular sheath, which can be implanted in the human body, suitable for containing a filling material and the ends of which are suitable for covering the ends of two portions of a single resected rib. The sheath contains a braid, in which the yarns allow relative movement in relation to one another in order locally to modify the diameter and the shape of the braid, such that the braid not only covers but also encloses the end of one portion of the rib. The sheath is secured to a tip which, allowing the injection of a biocompatible material for filling the sheath, the packing of the braid and the connection by adhesion of the sheath and the braid with the ends of the portions of the rib, is in turn sectional.
US09216037B2 Uterine lavage for embryo retrieval
A device for recovering one or more blastocysts from the uterus of a human includes an outer guide member for insertion into a cervical canal of the human. The outer guide member includes a distal portion with an activatable seal for isolating the uterus from the external environment and defines a lumen having a longitudinal axis. The device also includes an inner catheter located within the lumen and slidable along the longitudinal axis of the lumen relative to the outer guide member. The inner catheter has a distal tip positionable distally of the seal to extend into the uterus and includes a fluid delivery lumen terminating at a distal fluid delivery port for delivering fluid into the uterus. The device defines a distal suction port for aspirating fluid and entrained blastocysts from the uterus. The distal fluid delivery port and the distal suction port are arranged such that, in use, fluid delivered from the distal fluid delivery port travels through the distal suction port to the uterus.
US09216032B2 Liquid jet scalpel and method for operating a liquid jet scalpel
The invention relates to a liquid jet scalpel comprising a nozzle (12) for discharge of pressurized liquid (14) in the direction of tissue (16) that is to be manipulated, and a distance measuring device (18) for measuring the distance between the nozzle (12) and the tissue (16) that is to be manipulated. The invention further relates to a method for operating a liquid jet scalpel.
US09216031B2 Tissue removal device with adjustable fluid supply sleeve for neurosurgical and spinal surgery applications
A tissue cutting device that is especially suited for neurosurgical applications is disclosed and described. The device includes a handpiece and an outer cannula in which a reciprocating inner cannula is disposed. The inner cannula includes a hinge between a body section and a cutting section that allows the cutting section to pivot when the inner cannula reciprocates within the outer cannula. A tissue collector is also provided and is in fluid communication with the lumen of the inner cannula. A fluid supply sleeve is disposed about the outer cannula and is selectively positionable along the length of the outer cannula.
US09216028B2 Apparatuses for treatment of meibomian glands
In one embodiment, an apparatus for treating mammalian meibomian glands involves clearing the meibomian glands. The apparatus comprises a heater configured to apply a regulated heat to an eyelid containing the meibomian glands to a temperature adequate to melt obstructions in the meibomian glands to put the obstructions in a fluid or suspension (melted) state, and a controller maintaining the heat for a time period adequate to melt the obstructions. The glands can then be mechanically treated by a mechanical treatment applicator to express fluid from the glands by using a compressive force, wherein the treating is carried out either during the time period or after the time period but while the obstruction remains in a fluid state. Subsequent pharmacological treatment of the glands by use a pharmacological agent (topical or systemic) can then be used to assist in maintaining proper flow of lipids from the glands. This abstract is not to be considered limiting, since other embodiments may deviate from the features described in this abstract.
US09216027B2 Methods and devices for eluting agents to a vessel
Systems, devices and methods for eluting an agent at a treatment site are disclosed. The devices include an expandable frame and at least one membrane. The membrane may carry an agent to elute at the treatment site. The membrane may allow blood flow at the treatment site during agent delivery.
US09216026B2 Femoral sizing guide
A femoral sizing guide comprises a body, a superstructure and a stylus. The body has feet extending underneath and resting against posterior condylar surfaces of the femur and an extension component. The superstructure is slidable on the extension component and the extension component is rotatable with respect to the feet. The stylus may be coupled to the superstructure. The superstructure has a first guide hole defining a first alignment axis and the extension component has a second guide hole defining a second alignment axis. The distance between the first and second guide holes varies as the superstructure slides relative to the body. A method of locating an alignment axis on a resected femoral surface at a distal end of a femur which is transverse to the longitudinal axis of the femur using the femoral sizing guide is also disclosed.
US09216021B2 Ligating band dispenser with a sliding deployment system
A ligating band dispenser for attachment to an endoscope having sliding elements that are positioned on the outer surface of a support structure of the ligating band dispenser. The sliding elements may be slidably engaged to the support structure. For example, the sliding elements may slide along a groove on the outer surface of the support structure. The sliding elements are advanced forward along the groove, causing the sliding elements to impact a ligating band and push the ligating band forward until it is deployed off the dispenser.
US09216016B2 Surgical device for minimally invasive spinal fusion and surgical system comprising the same
A surgical device is disclosed which may advantageously perform the functions of both a retractor and a distractor. The device has two retractor blades facing each other and held in a common frame, the retractor blades are insertable into a surgical incision in a patient and moveable away from each other along a main axis (x) so as to widen the surgical incision; and a connecting pin attached at a distal end of each retractor blade. Each connecting pin is attachable to a pedicle screw anchored to respective vertebrae of the patient, so that moving away the two retractor blades along the main axis (x) determines a distraction of the vertebrae.
US09216014B2 Device with biological tissue scaffold for percutaneous closure of an intracardiac defect and methods thereof
The invention provides an intracardiac occluder, which has biological tissue scaffolds as occlusion shells, for the percutaneous transluminal treatment of an intracardiac defect. The intracardiac occluder includes a proximal support structure supporting the proximal occlusion shell and a distal support structure supporting the distal occlusion shell. In one embodiment, biological tissue derived from the tunica submucosa layer of the porcine small intestine forms the occlusion shells.
US09216013B2 Apparatus for endoscopic procedures
A shaft assembly is provided for interconnecting at least one rotatable drive shaft of a hand-held electromechanical surgical device, and an end effector actuatable by an axial drive force. The shaft assembly includes a flexible drive cable rotatably supported in an outer tube, the flexible drive cable includes a proximal end operatively connected to a respective rotatable drive shaft of the hand-held surgical device. The flexible drive cable being off set a radial distance from a central longitudinal axis of the outer tube. The shaft assembly includes an articulation rod at least partially slidably supported in the outer tube, and an articulation link having a proximal end pivotally connected to the distal end of the articulation rod and a distal end pivotally connected to a distal neck housing. The articulation rod being off set a radial distance from the central longitudinal axis of the outer tube.
US09216010B2 System and method for aligning a biopsy collecting device
A spectroscopy system for auto-aligning a biopsy collecting device is presented. The spectroscopy system includes an illumination subsystem configured to emit an illumination light towards the biopsy collecting device, whereas the biopsy collecting device includes an activator unit and a needle unit and wherein the needle unit includes a cannula and a stylet having a biopsy specimen. Also, the spectroscopy system includes a fixation subsystem capable of holding the biopsy collecting device and configured to place the needle unit comprising the biopsy specimen across the illumination light. Further, the spectroscopy system includes a detection subsystem configured to receive a light comprising at least one of an attenuated illumination light and a re-emitted light from the needle unit. In addition, the detection subsystem is configured to send a control signal to align the needle unit at a predetermined position in the spectroscopy system based on the received light.
US09216006B2 Radiograph acquisition device, radiographic imaging system, and radiographic imaging method
The disclosed radiograph acquisition device has: a selection unit that selects one radiation detection device from among a plurality of radiation detection devices that can convert radiation to radiographs; and an acquisition unit that acquires the radiograph of one radiation detection device when radiation is radiated at a subject, and the radiograph of at least one other radiation detection device aside from the one radiation device among the plurality of radiation detection devices.
US09216002B2 Patient support
Standby power supplies for patient tables need frequent replacement of the lead-acid batteries on which they depend. We propose to feed the emergency power direct to the drive motors, subsequent to the control circuitry. This will reduce the load on the standby power system, allowing greater design freedom to select longer-lasting or less expensive energy stores.
US09216000B2 Light wavelength selection for avoidance of surgical dyes
A tissue oximetry device utilizes at least three or at least four different wavelengths of light for collection of reflectance data where the different wavelengths are longer than 730 nanometers. The three or four wavelengths are utilized to generate a range of reflectance data suited for accurate determination of oxygenated hemoglobin and deoxygenated hemoglobin concentrations. The relatively long wavelengths decrease optical interference from certain dyes, particularly methylene blue and PVPI, which may be present on tissue being analyzed for viability and further enhance the generation of accurate reflectance data. The wavelengths are 760 nanometers, 810 nanometers, and 850 nanometers, or 760 nanometers, 810 nanometers, 850 nanometers, and 900 nanometers.
US09215997B2 In vivo technology system for human gut research, diagnostics and treatment
A method for diagnosing or treating disease associated with a gut or intestinal tract includes collecting samples of gut microbiota from along an intestinal tract of a patient; perturbing the intestinal tract of the patient; and obtaining a response of the perturbing the intestinal tract of the patient. The method can be implemented using one or more capsules designed for introducing stimuli into the gut or intestinal tract, observing the response to the stimulus, and treating the gut or intestinal tract in view of the response to the stimulus and further in view of acquired empirical data compiled into a database.
US09215996B2 Apparatus and method for objectively determining human response to media
An exemplary embodiment providing one or more improvements includes a media analysis apparatus and method in which human mental response to media is objectively determined.
US09215995B2 Sensor systems having multiple probes and electrode arrays
Embodiments of the invention provide amperometric analyte sensors having multiple related structural elements (e.g. sensor arrays comprising a working, counter and reference electrode) and algorithms designed for use with such sensors. While embodiments of the innovation can be used in a variety of contexts, typical embodiments of the invention include glucose sensors used in the management of diabetes.
US09215993B2 Analytical device with lancet and test element
The invention concerns an analytical device containing a lancet comprising a lancet needle and a lancet body, the lancet needle movable relative to the lancet body and the lancet body composed, in the area of the tip of the lancet needle, of an elastic material in which the tip of the lancet needle is embedded, and an analytical test element connected to the lancet body. The invention also concerns an analytical device containing a lancet comprising a lancet needle and a lancet body in the form of a hollow body in the area of the tip of the lancet needle and surrounds the tip of the lancet needle, the lancet needle movable relative to the lancet body and the hollow body composed at least partially of an elastic material, and an analytical test element connected to the lancet body. The invention concerns a process for manufacturing an analytical device.
US09215991B2 Systems and methods for monitoring heart function
Characteristics of a user's heart are detected. In accordance with an example embodiment, a ballistocardiogram (BCG) sensor is used to detect heart characteristics of a user, and provide a BCG output indicative of the detected heart characteristics. The BCG output is further processed using data from one or more additional sensors, such as to reduce noise and/or otherwise process the BCG signal to characterize the user's heart function.
US09215986B2 Body-worn system for measuring continuous non-invasive blood pressure (cNIBP)
The present invention provides a technique for continuous measurement of blood pressure based on pulse transit time and which does not require any external calibration. This technique, referred to herein as the ‘Composite Method’, is carried out with a body-worn monitor that measures blood pressure and other vital signs, and wirelessly transmits them to a remote monitor. A network of body-worn sensors, typically placed on the patient's right arm and chest, connect to the body-worn monitor and measure time-dependent ECG, PPG, accelerometer, and pressure waveforms. The disposable sensors can include a cuff that features an inflatable bladder coupled to a pressure sensor, three or more electrical sensors (e.g. electrodes), three or more accelerometers, a temperature sensor, and an optical sensor (e.g., a light source and photodiode) attached to the patient's thumb.
US09215982B2 Method for the non-invasive measurement of tissue function and metabolism by determination of steady-state fluorescence anisotropy
A non-invasive measurement of biological tissue reveals information about the function of that tissue. Polarized light is directed onto the tissue, stimulating the emission of fluorescence, due to one or more endogenous fluorophors in the tissue. Fluorescence anisotropy is then calculated. Such measurements of fluorescence anisotropy are then used to assess the functional status of the tissue, and to identify the existence and severity of disease states. Such assessment can be made by comparing a fluorescence anisotropy profile with a known profile of a control.
US09215981B2 Apparatus for acquiring data of tongue and face images based on traditional Chinese medicine
The present invention provides a device for collecting information from face and the tongue for Chinese medicine, which includes a tank, a light source and a shooting structure. The light source and the shooting structure are positioned inside the tank, the shooting structure contains a guide column, a lifting component, a shooting component and an electrical component. The guide column and the electrical component are fixed in the tank, the shooting component fixed on the lifting component, the lifting component fixed on the guide column, which can achieve adjustment of the relative to the guide column by the electrical component. The present invention also provides a method for collecting information collection from face and tongue for Chinese medicine, which includes: 1. collect the information of the face with the camera lens perpendicular to the face plane; 2. tilt forward the camera's position while raising to the vertical plane with the tongue, collect the further information of the tongue. The present invention can solve the disadvantage in the existing technology that the information collection from the tongue and face can not be achieved at the same time, and collecting process done automatically by the electric machine control, easy to operate.
US09215973B2 System and method for in-vivo imaging
An in-vivo imaging device including a camera may include a frame storage device. Systems and methods which vary the frame capture rate of the camera and/or frame display rate of the display unit of in-vivo camera systems are discussed. The capture rate is varied based on for example, a physical quantity experienced by the camera system, or physical measurements related to the motion of the camera. Alternatively, the frame capture rate is varied based on comparative image processing of a plurality of frames. The frame display rate of the system may be varied based on comparative image processing of a multiplicity of frames. Both the frame capture and the frame display rates of such systems can be varied concurrently.
US09215970B2 Fiber optic imaging catheter
A steerable imaging catheter is provided, including an elongated catheter tube, at least one steering cable extending along the catheter tube to control the movement of the distal end thereof, and a fiber optic cable extending along the catheter tube. The fiber optic cable transmits illumination light from its proximal end to its distal end and transmits an image from its distal end to its proximal end. In one embodiment, two or more steering cables are used, and the catheter tube is configured to have greater flexibility near its distal end than its proximal end so as to concentrate the movement (flexing) of the catheter tube at its distal end. The use of two or more steering cables, together with the catheter tube having varying flexibility, permit better control of the distal end of the catheter tube while reducing undue twisting of the remainder of the catheter tube.
US09215968B2 Magnetic end effector and device for guiding and positioning the same
A magnetic guiding device (robotics) for an intracorporeal object includes a motor-driven positioning device having a maximum of three degrees of freedom to be activated for translational motion of a connecting interface of the positioning device to which a magnetic end effector is connected or connectable, the latter including a maximum of two degrees of freedom to be activated for rotational motion of a magnetic field generator. At least one of the two degrees of freedom of the magnetic end effector is encased in an effector housing.
US09215967B2 Side looking minimally invasive surgery instrument assembly
A surgical instrument is inserted through a guide tube. The surgical instrument exits at an intermediate position of the guide tube and is oriented to be substantially parallel to the guide tube's longitudinal axis as it exits. A stereoscopic image capture component is on the guide tube between the intermediate position and the guide tube's distal end. The image capture component's field of view is generally perpendicular to the guide tube's longitudinal axis. The guide tube is jointed to allow the image capture component to be moved. The surgical instruments and the guide tube are telemanipulatively controlled.
US09215966B2 3D image shooting apparatus and endoscope
In one embodiment, an element 106 transform, with a voltage, non-polarized light into plane polarized light with an arbitrary plane of polarization. A synchronizer 112 gives the plane of polarization control element 106 an instruction to rotate the plane of polarization, thereby getting the plane of polarization of the illumination rotated and casting that polarized light toward the object. At the same time, the synchronizer 112 sends a shooting start signal to an image sensor 110, thereby getting video. The synchronizer 112 performs these processing steps multiple times. A captured video signal is sent to an image processing processor 108, where LL, RR and CC images are separately generated as images of light rays that have passed through left and right polarizing areas and the central non-polarizing area and left and right parallax signals are generated and sent to a 3D display section 122.
US09215965B2 Endoscope
An endoscope is provided, with a first tube, a cover glass arranged at the distal end of the first tube, as well as with imaging optics, arranged in the first tube, which image an object located in front of the cover glass as an image, wherein the cover glass has a spherically curved, concave inside, a spherically curved, convex outside, and a constant thickness.
US09215964B2 Vacuum system and endoscopy arrangement for endoscopic vacuum therapy
A vacuum system is described for endoscopic intracavity, intraluminal or intracorporeal vacuum therapy, for aspirating body fluids, wound secretions or gases from a hollow volume, such as a body cavity, a hollow organ, a tissue abscess or an intestinal lumen, particularly in the production of a temporary endoscopic closure of an intestinal lumen. Based on this, many embodiments of an endoscopy arrangement are described.
US09215962B2 Autonomous planar surface cleaning robot
Autonomous planar surface cleaning robots are disclosed. The robot includes a main body having a bottom portion defining an outer portion defining a surface area about a perimeter thereof and an inner portion defining a cavity formed within the outer portion. The main body supports a driving mechanism, a vacuum source, a vacuum sensor, and a control unit. The vacuum source, cavity, and vacuum sensor are in fluid communication. The control unit is electrically coupled to the driving mechanism, the vacuum source, and the vacuum sensor, and is configured to control the robot to turn direction when the control unit receives a signal from the vacuum sensor indicating that a degree of vacuum pressure within the cavity is below a predetermined vacuum pressure. Also disclosed is robot that includes multiple vacuum sources. Also disclosed is an apparatus that includes a connector pole.
US09215957B2 Autonomous robot auto-docking and energy management systems and methods
A method for energy management in a robotic device includes providing a base station for mating with the robotic device, determining a quantity of energy stored in an energy storage unit of the robotic device, and performing a predetermined task based at least in part on the quantity of energy stored. Also disclosed are systems for emitting avoidance signals to prevent inadvertent contact between the robot and the base station, and systems for emitting homing signals to allow the robotic device to accurately dock with the base station.
US09215956B2 Glass window cleaning device and a control method therefor
Provided are a window cleaning apparatus and a method of controlling the same. The window cleaning apparatus including first and second cleaning units which are respectively attached on both surfaces of a window using a magnetic force to move together with each other includes a first magnetic module provided in the first cleaning unit, a second magnetic module provided in the second cleaning unit, a magnetic force detection part for detecting a magnetic force between the first and second magnetic modules, and a magnetic force control part for controlling the magnetic force between the first and second magnetic modules.
US09215951B2 Toaster with independently controllable heating elements
A toaster having a body portion engageable over a housing with slots sized for bread passage therethrough aligned with cavities on said house sized to accommodate the bread for toasting. Individually controlled heating elements on each side of each cavity to allow users to independently control the amount of toasting of each side of each inserted piece of bread. The exterior of the body is preferably porcelain to provide resistance to heat transference to the body of the user and to provide a plurality of colors available for the housings.
US09215948B2 Apparatus and system for low-temperature cooking
One variation of an apparatus for cooking includes: a housing including a first section configured to be immersed in fluid within a cooking container and a second section adjoining the first section; an annular knob arranged over the second section; a position sensor arranged within the second section and configured to detect rotation of the magnetic element; a display arranged on the housing and configured to display a cooking parameter selected through rotation of the annular knob; a heating element arranged within the first section; a circulator arranged within the housing and configured to draw fluid, in the cooking container, along the heating element; and a controller configured to control the heating element and the circulator according to a temperature of the fluid measured by the temperature sensor, thereby maintaining the fluid within a predetermined range of temperatures including the selected temperature.
US09215947B2 Brewing apparatus with extraction from a portion capsule and method of operating same
The present invention relates to a brewing apparatus for brewing by extraction from a portion capsule, having a first brewing-chamber element and a second brewing-chamber element, wherein the first brewing-chamber element can be moved between a loading position, in which the first and the second brewing-chamber elements are spaced apart from one another in order for the portion capsule to be introduced, and an extraction position, in which the first and the second brewing-chamber elements have been advanced towards one another in order to form a substantially closed brewing chamber for the portion capsule, wherein the brewing apparatus is designed such that the orientation of the portion capsule remains substantially constant as it is transferred from the loading position into the extraction position.
US09215937B2 Adjustable side rail for medical beds and the like
An adjustable side rail assembly includes a side rail and an actuation assembly. The side rail is rotatable between a storage position and a use position. The actuation assembly includes an inner member, an outer member, and a locking assembly. The outer member is coupled to the side rail and is rotatable relative to the inner member between first and second rotational orientations for rotating the side rail between the storage and use positions, respectively. The locking assembly is transitional between a locked condition, wherein the locking assembly engages both the inner and outer members to fix the inner and outer members in the first or second rotational orientation, and an unlocked condition, wherein the locking assembly is disengaged from the inner and/or outer member to permit rotation of the outer member relative to the inner member between the first and second rotational orientations.
US09215936B1 Personal pool
A single-person chair includes a proximal end and a distal end. A generally convex central portion extends between the proximal end and the distal end. The central portion extends upwardly, forming a first pool between the proximal end and the central portion and a second pool between the distal end and the central portion. A longitudinal centerline extends between the proximal end and the distal end. A first sidewall extends between the proximal end and the distal end on a first side of the longitudinal centerline. A second sidewall extends between the proximal end and the distal end on a second side of the longitudinal centerline such that that a liquid can be contained within the chair between the proximal end, the distal end, the first sidewall, and the second sidewall.
US09215929B2 Drive device for a movable piece of furniture
A drive device includes an ejection element, a housing, and a locking element for the ejection element. The locking element is disposed in or on the housing and is movable relative thereto, and a detent element, which is connected to the ejection element and, in the closed position, abuts the locking element. In the locking position, the locking element can block the path of the detent element in the opening direction. The ejection element can be released both when a movable piece of furniture is subjected to increased pressure from a closed position in the closure direction and when the movable piece of furniture is pulled from the closure position in the opening direction. A detection system detects the position of the movable piece of furniture, and a transmission device transmits the position of the movable piece of furniture detected by the detection system to the locking element.
US09215928B2 Expandable podium
An expandable podium has a first part (2) which includes a supporting base panel (7) and a rear panel (8) rising from the base panel, a second part (3) which includes a top panel (9) and a front panel (10) depending from the top panel, wherein in expanded mode of the podium a lower hinge (5) links a bottom corner (10′) of the front panel to the nearest forward corner of the base panel and an upper hinge links a top corner (8′) of the rear panel to the nearest rearward corner of the top panel, each of the upper and lower hinges forming an elongate element the ends of which are connected pivotally to the appertaining base, top, front and rear panels about a respective pivot axis. The pivot axes extend at converging directions that intersect in a common point of intersection, beyond the rear panel.
US09215925B2 System and method for a garden table assembly
According to various embodiments, a furniture system and method of manufacture is disclosed. The furniture system may comprise one or more raised horizontal platforms. The plurality of platforms may flank a basin, such as a catch basin. The furniture system may comprise one or more support members to support and/or raise the platforms and/or basin from ground level. The furniture system may comprise one or more containers.
US09215924B2 Mobile furniture system
A mobile furniture system includes a work surface and a framework assembly, which includes a pair of vertical frame members to support the work surface. The frame members extend above the work surface. At least one utility service line is routed through the framework assembly. A rotatable support may be operatively coupled to each frame member. The rotatable support includes a housing and a rotatable wheel. At least a portion of each of the rotatable supports is in vertical alignment with one frame member. A pair of leg members is operatively coupled to the work surface and is spaced from the pair of frame members. Another rotatable support is coupled to each leg member. A movable foot may be coupled to each of the frame members and to each of the leg members to support the system in a stationary configuration upon a lowering movement of the movable foot.
US09215922B2 Device for packaging a cosmetic product
The invention relates to a device for packaging a cosmetic product, comprising a container (10) having an opening defined by a neck (12) of the container, and a cap (20) for closing the container (10). The cap (20) comprises a cover element (22), a closing-off element (40) for the opening, connected to the cover element (22), a spring member (39) located between the cover element (22) and the closing-off element (40), and a mechanism (30) for locking the cap on the container (10). According to the invention, the locking mechanism (30) comprises a means (25) for retaining the cover element on the container and a means (31) for actuating the retaining VIII means (25) so as to selectively enable the cover element (22) to move with respect to the container (10) from a locked position of the cover element to an unlocked position of the cover element (22) in which the cap (20) can be separated freely from the container (10).
US09215917B2 Compact protective cover for eyewear
Protective eyewear cover that may be folded into or onto itself when removed from the eyewear, resulting in a profile that is slightly thicker than and slightly larger than the size of a single lens of the eyewear. The protective eyewear cover of the present invention is compact in comparison to certain conventional eyewear protection, such as a hard or semi-hard eyeglass case, yet offers maximum protection in comparison to other conventional eyewear protection, such as eyeglass bags or pouches.
US09215914B2 Portable folding canopy with moveable element
A system and method for increasing customer interest in articles of manufacture, including hand-held portable canopies, such as umbrellas and parasols. A set of actuating components are coupled to moveable elements of the article of manufacture, the moveable elements respond to operation of an user-controlled actuating mechanism.
US09215910B2 Sole cover dispenser device
The present invention describes a dispenser of protective covers for the sole of a shoe. The sole covers are disposed on a sheet that is placed within the dispenser. The dispenser comprises a series of roller supports that are adapted to position the sheet of solve covers onto an exposed platform. A user steps the exposed platform in order to apply the cover to the user's footwear and remove the sole cover from the sheet. The top of the sole cover includes an adhesive that enables the cover to adhere to the sole of the user's shoe, thereby enabling a user to walk around the house while reducing the likelihood that the user would spread dirt therein.
US09215906B2 Waterproof and vapor-permeable shoe
A waterproof and vapor-permeable shoe, including an upper that is lined at least partially by an upper membrane impermeable to water in a liquid state and permeable to water vapor. The upper membrane is connected hermetically to a sole which is impermeable to water in the liquid state. The hermetic connection is provided by a sealing element included in an assembly insole. The sealing element is permeable with respect to sealing material, or a glue, sealing adhesive, or polymeric material for providing the sole, and is impregnated with the sealing material, which grips the upper membrane and is connected to the sole or forms a single body therewith, sealing it to the upper membrane.
US09215902B2 Visor with plug in accessory sockets
Visors formed from a pliable and flexible material, such as but not limited to EVA (ethylene vinyl acetate) having patterns of through-holes and partial cutouts for allowing accessories such as labels, charms, badges, puncture tool and sunglass/eyeglass supports and the like, to be plugged into the holes and cut-outs and easily removable and interchangeable with other accessories. A removable rear head strap be attached to the visor, having a plurality of holes with fasteners to adjust the strap to different head sizes.
US09215900B2 Lightweight, durable apparel and laminates for making the same
Laminates are described having a durable outer film surface for use in making lightweight liquidproof articles, including articles of apparel, such as outerwear garments. A method of making the laminate and a lightweight outerwear garment having an abrasion resistant exterior film surface is described.
US09215896B2 Breast supporting garment
A breast support device designed to provide the wearer with a high degree of control and support of breast tissue while minimizing the pain and discomfort associated with conventional breast control garments, that can be worn on its own or integrated into garments where breast support is desirable. The breast support device achieves these objectives through the innovative combination of various non-stretch and stretch fabrics, as well as through the use on one or more darts of varying length sewn into the non-stretch fabric.
US09215891B2 Composite material
A porous formed composite material comprising: (i) a polymer, or a mixture thereof, said polymer having immobilised therein (ii) an insoluble sorbent material selected from the group consisting of: (a) a cross-linked vinyl lactam homopolymer or copolymer, said vinyl lactam homopolymer or copolymer being optionally mixed with silica gel; and (b) polyvinyl lactam-modified silica gel; is described. Solid phase extraction apparatus incorporating the material and its use in removing polyphenols and/or proteins from beverages to prevent the formation of haze in beverages are also described.
US09215887B2 Method for inhibiting coloring of a syrupy sweetener comprising a non-reducing oligosaccharide having a beta-fructofranosidic linkage and a reducing saccharide, and use thereof
The objects of the present invention are to provide a method for inhibiting the coloration of a syrupy sweetener, comprising a reducing saccharide together with a non-reducing oligosaccharide having a β-fructofuranosidic linkage, without deteriorating the taste inherent to the syrupy sweetener; and to provide a syrupy sweetener, comprising a reducing saccharide together with a non-reducing oligosaccharide having a β-fructofuranosidic linkage, which is stabilized by the method. The present invention attains the above objects by providing a method for inhibiting the coloring of a syrupy sweetener, comprising a reducing saccharide together with a non-reducing oligosaccharide having a β-fructofuranosidic linkage, which comprises a step of incorporating a lactate into the syrupy sweetener, and by providing a syrupy sweetener, comprising a reducing saccharide together with a non-reducing oligosaccharide having a β-fructofuranosidic linkage, which is stabilized by the method.
US09215886B2 Method for making a low-acrylamide content snack with desired organoleptical properties
A method for making a food product with a low acrylamide content having organoleptical properties comparable to traditional food products. Potatoes containing a low reducing sugar concentration are used to make potato flakes. Dextrose is added to the low reducing sugar potato flakes to increase the total reducing sugar concentration.
US09215881B2 Fermented food and method for producing same
The purpose of the present invention is to provide a technique whereby the flavor of products such as fermented milk that use the Bifidobacterium bacteria can be improved while maintaining the effect of the Rubus suavissimus S. Lee for improving the viability of the Bifidobacterium bacteria. Provided is a fermented food that includes: a Rubus suavissimus S. Lee essence obtained as a concentrate through electrodialyzing a Rubus suavissimus S. Lee extract added with an inorganic salt; and bacteria of the genus Bifidobacterium. Also provided is a method for producing such fermented foods.
US09215878B2 Production of articles with varying content of additives
The invention relates to a method and device for continuous production of articles including at least two different types from a pasty mass. The mass is introduced into a processor unit by a supply unit, processed in the processor unit and transported further thereby, whereupon an adjunct is added by a metering unit to the mass transported through the processor unit. The mixing of the adjunct introduced to the mass is carried out by a mixing unit with mixing elements located downstream of the processor unit. The mass with provided adjunct is formed by a forming unit into individual articles downstream of the mixing unit. According to the invention, the metering of the adjunct is carried out in a sequence of metering conditions with at least two different metering conditions, wherein the metering unit, for a given metering condition, introduces the adjunct to the mass at a given metering rate.
US09215876B2 1,3,6-dioxazocan-2-ones and antimicrobial cationic polycarbonates therefrom
Eight-membered ring cyclic carbonates comprising a ring nitrogen at position 6 (1,3,6-dioxazocan-2-ones) were prepared by reaction of precursor diols with active carbonates. The ring nitrogen is linked to a pendant group Y′ via a methylene linking group. The cyclic carbonates undergo organocatalyzed ring opening polymerization to form an initial polycarbonate comprising a backbone tertiary amine group. Quaternization of the initial polycarbonates forms cationic polycarbonates comprising a positive-charged backbone quaternary nitrogen. The cationic polycarbonates can be potent antimicrobial agents.
US09215870B2 Pesticidal compositions and processes related thereto
This document discloses molecules having the following formula (“Formula One”): and processes associated therewith.
US09215869B1 Non-cadherin polypeptide potentitators of cry proteins
The subject invention relates in part to fragments of non-cadherin Cry toxin binding proteins, wherein the fragments potentiate, or act as synergists with, the insecticidal activity of Cry proteins. In some preferred embodiments, the binding protein (a Cry protein receptor on insect midgut cells) is an aminopeptidase. In preferred embodiments, the fragment comprises a Cry protein binding region.
US09215867B2 Systems and methods for ex-vivo organ care
The invention provides, in various embodiments, systems, devices and methods relating to ex-vivo organ care. In certain embodiments, the invention relates to maintaining an organ ex-vivo at near-physiologic conditions.
US09215866B1 Method for treating and preventing bedbug infestations
A method is disclosed for treating bedbug infestations, that involves filling the lower portions of the void spaces inside a wall with a thick and stable foam, to form a foam barrier inside the walls, allowing the foam barrier to collapse over time to coat portions of the interior of the wall with residual foam. The foam may contain a non-repellant pesticide, but certain foams are effective in treating bedbugs even if the foam does not contain any pesticide.
US09215860B2 Fence for use by infants or pets
The present invention is a device for use by infants or pets which provides a fence for use by infants or pets to confine their activities within a restricted area so that caring of the infants or pets can become easier. The present invention comprises an assembly of fence plates rotatable in relation to each other, wherein the adjacent fence plates are assembled with each other by means of a rotating axle. The fence has a bottom portion which is disposed with fixing members. The present invention assembles a plurality of the fence plates to form a fence. The fence is fixed on the ground by the fixing members to prevent it from sliding. When infants or pets are put into an area restricted by the fence, they can enjoy sufficient rooms for activities. It is also possible to prevent the infants or pets from escaping out of the fence and to confine their activities within a restricted area, thus accidents due to absence of care could be avoided.
US09215858B2 Cabinet in a milking parlour
A teat cup magazine (1), arranged to store at least two teat cups (3), includes a removing device for each teat cup (3), which is arranged to retract the teat cup (3) into the teat cup magazine when a milking process has finished. Each removing device includes a cylinder (8) and a piston (9). The cylinders (8) of the removing devices are formed by at least one cylinder profile (35, 38, 39), manufactured in one piece, which constitutes the sole load-bearing structure of the teat cup magazine. The at least one cylinder profile (35, 38, 39) includes on one side, integrated attachment zones (37) for attaching milking components, and on an opposite side, a guiding track (13) for each cylinder (8), adapted for a movable guiding element (6) supporting a milk tube (4) and a pulse tube (5) connected to the teat cup.
US09215854B1 Maize inbred PH1W6H
A novel maize variety designated PH1W6H and seed, plants and plant parts thereof. Methods for producing a maize plant that comprise crossing maize variety PH1W6H with another maize plant. Methods for producing a maize plant containing in its genetic material one or more traits introgressed into PH1W6H through backcross conversion and/or transformation, and to the maize seed, plant and plant part produced thereby. Hybrid maize seed, plant or plant part produced by crossing the variety PH1W6H or a locus conversion of PH1W6H with another maize variety.
US09215853B2 Guzmania plant named ‘VARIADA’
A new and distinct Guzmania hybrid named ‘VARIADA’ characterized by solid growth habit; funnel-form rosette plant, measuring about 50 cm in height (above the pot when flowering); numerous, green colored foliage (measuring about 50 cm length and about 4.5 cm in width) Superior floral bract production; bracts are orange-red in color (closest to RHS 32A and 17A) compound inflorescence, measuring about 18 cm in height and about 20 cm in diameter; and long-lasting habit.
US09215851B2 Guzmania plant named ‘rostara’
A new and distinct Guzmania hybrid named ‘ROSTARA’ characterized by solid growth habit; funnel-form rosette plant, measuring about 55 cm in height (above the pot when flowering); numerous, green color foliage (measuring about 40-55 cm length and about 3-4.5 cm in width) Superior floral bract production; primary bracts are red in color (closest to RHS 46A) compound inflorescence, measuring about 22 cm in height and about 22 cm in diameter and long lasting habit.
US09215850B1 Maize hybrid X85C454
A novel maize variety designated X85C454 and seed, plants and plant parts thereof, produced by crossing Pioneer Hi-Bred International, Inc. proprietary inbred maize varieties. Methods for producing a maize plant that comprises crossing hybrid maize variety X85C454 with another maize plant. Methods for producing a maize plant containing in its genetic material one or more traits introgressed into X85C454 through backcross conversion and/or transformation, and to the maize seed, plant and plant part produced thereby. This invention relates to the maize variety X85C454, the seed, the plant produced from the seed, and variants, mutants, and minor modifications of maize variety X85C454. This invention further relates to methods for producing maize varieties derived from maize variety X85C454.
US09215842B2 Adjustable modular tine muck and garden rake
The present invention relates primarily to an improvement in a mucking rake that can also be adapted for landscaping use. The invention possesses parallel replaceable tines that are spaced apart at variable distances through the use of individual modular tines and/or spacers. The tines can also be manufactured in a wavy shape to enable the debris to be sifted and collected onto the rake without having to dispose of the debris each time debris is sifted and collected.
US09215838B2 Agricultural apparatus with hybrid single-disk, double-disk coulter arrangement
An agricultural row unit assembly includes an attachment frame configured for attachment to a tow bar that is movable in a direction of travel. A proximal end of a swing-arm is coupled to the attachment frame, and an opener disk is mounted to and offset from a distal end of the swing-arm for forming a furrow. The opener disk is configured to rotate about a first axis relative to the direction of travel. A deflecting disk is mounted to the distal end for deflecting debris from entering the furrow, and is mounted between the distal end of the swing-arm and the opener disk. The deflecting disk is configured to rotate about a second axis, which is different than the first axis, relative to the direction of travel. A closing wheel is coupled to the attachment frame for closing the furrow.