| Document | Document Title |
|---|---|
| US09268500B2 |
Host device and system including the same
A memory module includes a first storage module including a first module controller and a first memory unit. The first storage module is configured to receive first partial data from a host and write the first partial data to the first memory unit. A second storage module includes a second module controller and a second memory unit. The second storage module is configured to receive second partial data from the host and write the second partial data to the second memory unit. The first storage module and the second storage module are configured to connect to the host through a single host interface bus. |
| US09268497B2 |
Increased in-line deduplication efficiency
Exemplary embodiments for increased in-line deduplication efficiency in a computing environment are provided. Embodiments include incrementing the size of data samples from fixed size data chunks for each nth iteration for reaching a full size of an object requested for in-line deduplication, calculating in nth iterations hash values on data samples from fixed size data chunks extracted from the object, and matching in a nth hash index table the calculated nth iteration hash values for the data samples from the fixed size data chunks with a corresponding hash value of existing objects in storage, wherein the nth hash index table is built for each nth iteration of the data samples belonging to the fixed data chunks. |
| US09268493B2 |
Systems and methods for smart storage interconnection in a heterogeneous storage environment
An information handling system is provided. The information handling system includes a plurality of storage subsystems a back-end switch connected to each storage subsystem to communicate information about each of the plurality; and a redundant array of independent disks (RAID) volume. Each storage subsystem includes a RAID engine, a storage drive; and a plurality of input ports and output ports. The RAID volume includes the storage drive on a first storage subsystem of the plurality and the storage drive on a second storage subsystem of the plurality. Methods for providing such a system are also disclosed. |
| US09268490B2 |
Storage system
A storage system 300a that has a volume, manages the volume as a plurality of logical volumes, and can operate as a plurality of logical storage systems having at least one logical volume. The storage system comprises an IO transmission-reception unit 1320a that communicates with a management computer 100, a host computer 200, and a storage system 300b and a processor 1310a that causes the IO transmission-reception unit 1320a to perform transmission to the management computer 100 and storage system 300b by using an identifier of the storage system 300a as an identifier indicating a representative logical storage system that is one predetermined logical storage system from among a plurality of the logical storage system when the storage system operates as a plurality of the logical storage systems. |
| US09268487B2 |
Method and apparatus for restricting writes to solid state memory when an end-of life condition is reached
A data storage device including a solid state memory comprising logical block addresses (“LBAs”) corresponding to boot data accessed by a host during a boot process, and a controller. The controller can be configured to determine the LBAs corresponding to the boot data, and determine whether the solid state memory has reached an end-of-life condition. Upon determining that solid state memory has reached an end-of-life condition, the controller can restrict the host to write to the LBAs corresponding to the boot data during a boot process, and set the solid state memory into a read only mode when the boot process is complete. |
| US09268481B2 |
User arrangement of objects on home screen of mobile device, method and storage medium thereof
According to an aspect, a device includes a touch screen display and a controller. The touch screen display displays a first home screen on which an icon and a first symbol corresponding to a second home screen are arranged. When the icon is placed and released on the first symbol, the controller moves the icon to the second home screen corresponding to the first symbol. |
| US09268479B2 |
Motion sensor-enhanced touch screen
An information handling system includes a touch screen, a motion sensor, and a processor. The processor is configured to receive inputs from the touch screen, receive signals from the motion sensor, determine a correlation between the inputs from the touch screen and signals from the motion sensor, and perform an action in response to the correlation. The inputs from the touch screen correspond to a touch contact with the touch screen, and the signals from the motion sensor corresponding to a touch impact to the touch screen. |
| US09268477B2 |
Providing contextual menus
Methods, systems, and computer-readable media for providing contextual menus are presented. In some embodiments, a computing device may receive user input. Subsequently, the computing device may determine, based on the received user input, that a drag-and-drop operation has been completed, where the drag-and-drop operation includes at least one item being dragged from a source palette to a target palette. In response to determining that the drag-and-drop operation has been completed, the computing device may cause a contextual menu associated with the at least one item to be displayed. In some arrangements, the contextual menu may be a configuration menu. Additionally or alternatively, causing the contextual menu to be displayed may include animating the contextual menu as a panel that slides into view from at least one edge of a displayed user interface. |
| US09268476B2 |
Drag and drop interaction paradigm with image swap
A software application assists users of a computing device to manipulate a data object displayed on a user interface. The software application may be implemented as a method that may comprise receiving a touch-and-hold operation directed to the data object, and responsive to the touch-and-hold operation, determining whether a time period since beginning of the touch-and-hold operation reaches a predetermined threshold value, when the time period reaches the predetermined threshold value, creating an image of the data object and hovering the image of the data object on top of the data object to indicate it is draggable, and responsive to the image of the data object being dragged into a droppable display area on the user interface, swapping the image of the data object with a user guidance indicating what the image of the data object will look like if released in the droppable display area. |
| US09268473B2 |
Method and system of interacting with building security systems
A system is provided that includes a security system having a plurality of sensors and actuators within a building and a respective control feature embodied as a programmed processor and associated with operation of the security system and at least some of the plurality of sensors and actuators, a user display of a portable wireless device that depicts a portion of the building using a building information model (BIM), a user interface of the wireless device that receives a symbol drawn by a human user over part of the building portion and a processor that correlates the symbol with a control feature of the security system based upon proximity of the symbol on the display with a location of an associated sensor or actuator of the control feature within the BIM model of the building. |
| US09268470B2 |
Advance security gun with advance coding system
Advanced security gun that works with Wi-Fi or GSM or any other special networks, and will not work when it is removed from the address installed by its provider. The gun will not point forward at anyone, except if it is operated by the user to point at any direction, when controlled wirelessly with a special module. |
| US09268469B2 |
Image display environment
Methods, systems, and apparatus for processing image content items. In one aspect, a method includes generating an image display environment for a first image content item on an image content item page resource between a first row and a second row of image content items. The user device expands a thumbnail of the image content item from first dimensions to second dimensions, and displays the expanded thumbnail in the image display environment. Concurrently with the thumbnail processing, the user device requests a first image resource referenced by the first image content item, and, upon receipt of the first image resource, generates an adjusted version of the first image resource that meets the second dimensions. The user device then displays the adjusted version of the first image resource in the image display environment in place of the expanded version of the first image content item. |
| US09268467B2 |
Internet interface and integration language system and method
A system for generating, on a user terminal, a user interface having at least two interface items, where the system is configured to store at least two sets of data each corresponding to the interface items. A first set of data includes data for generating and controlling the performance of an operation associated with a first of interface items, and a second said set of data includes data for generating and controlling the performance of an operation associated with a second of the interface items. When a user interacts with the first interface item, the system is configured to perform the action associated with the first interface item, independent of the second interface item and without performing any other action corresponding to the user interface. |
| US09268455B2 |
System and method for user-controlled, multi-dimensional navigation and/or subject-based aggregation and/or monitoring of multimedia data
A system and method for user-controlled multi-dimensional navigation and/or subject-based aggregation of multimedia data, a multiplicity of node elements being generated and a node element including one or more search terms and/or weighting terms that can be logically combined. For each multimedia data element to be registered, a relevance index parameter is determined for each paired combination of node elements and allocated to the respective pair of node elements. In dependence on the relevance index parameters, one- or multi-dimensional distance factors are determined. Based on the registered multimedia data elements and/or node elements, a topological navigation map is generated and graphically displayed in dependence on the respective one- or multi-dimensional distance factors so that the user can navigate in the topological navigation map by an input device and can access required multimedia data elements and/or node elements. |
| US09268454B2 |
Trigger event based data feed of virtual universe data
Business owners in a virtual universe may want to create a data source that transmits a data feed when certain parameters are met. Functionality can be implemented within a virtual universe to create a data feed when a trigger event occurs. The data feed may include data about the trigger event itself and/or about an avatar that caused the trigger. Triggered data feeds can be used to derive statistics, monitor use of objects and space and bill for such use, etc. In such cases, the user may be notified, such as via email, of the new data feed, as well as instructions on how to subscribe to it in their RSS reader or other client. Alternatively, users may be given individual feeds wherein additional feeds are distributed as separate categories of the user's feed as opposed to creating a separate feed. |
| US09268453B2 |
Touch sensor integrated type display device
A touch sensor integrated type display device includes gate and data lines that cross over each other to form a plurality of pixel regions; first electrodes arranged in parallel in a first direction; second electrodes arranged in parallel in a second direction; first subpixel electrodes formed within the pixel regions on a different layer from the first electrodes and overlap the first electrodes; a second subpixel electrode formed on the same layer as the first electrodes and overlaps the second electrodes; first routing wires that group the first electrodes into m units; second routing wires that group the second electrodes into n units; first electrostatic discharging circuits that connect the first routing wires to a ground wire; and second electrostatic discharging circuits that connects the second routing wires to the ground wire, wherein the first subpixel electrodes and the second subpixel electrode constitute a unit pixel. |
| US09268445B2 |
Touch sensor panels with reduced static capacitance
Capacitive touch panels may include a plurality of positive voltage lines that are driven at a first phase. These positive voltage lines may be used to provide the drive capacitance signal sensed by one or more sense regions. The touch panels may also include a plurality of negative phase voltage lines that are driven at a phase that is different than the first phase. Both the positive and negative voltage lines may cross-under one or more sense regions. The negative phase voltage lines are able to counter act and reduce the static capacitance in the sense regions. |
| US09268436B2 |
Multi-touch touch-sensitive device with multi-frequency capacitive detection comprising means of fault detection
The general field of the invention is that of touchscreen devices with projected capacitive detection comprising a touch-sensitive matrix panel comprising a plurality of conductive rows and conductive columns, said panel being connected to electronic control means. The electronic control means generate two periodic transmission voltages transmitted at two different frequencies. Analysis of the reception voltages is used to determine the positions of presses on the touch-sensitive panel, including when a row or column is cut. Pressing on a cut row or column is basically determined by calculating the barycenters of ‘virtual’ hollows in the reception voltages corresponding to this cut row or column. |
| US09268434B2 |
Systems and methods for reducing power consumption in a touch sensor display
In accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure, a method may include receiving information communicated from a touch sensor controller configured to translate signals received from the touch sensor and control a rate of sampling of tactile touches on the touch sensor. The method may also include receiving information communicated from a proximity sensor configured to detect a human finger or stylus proximate to the touch sensor. The method may further include, based on the information communicated from the touch sensor controller and information communicated from the proximity sensor, determining a desired rate of sampling. The method may additionally include causing the touch sensor controller to control the rate of sampling such that the touch sensor operates at the desired rate of sampling. |
| US09268429B2 |
Integrated display and touch screen
Liquid crystal display (LCD) touch screens integrate touch sensing elements with display circuitry and may include in-plane-switching (IPS) LCDs. A method of operating the integrated touch sensing elements with the display circuitry includes dividing touch-sensing circuitry of the touch screen into a plurality of drive segments, each drive segment overlapping one or more display rows; updating the display at a predetermined refresh rate; stimulating the plurality of drive segments at a predetermined scan rate; and changing the sequence of stimulating the plurality of drive segments as required to prevent simultaneously stimulating a drive segment that overlaps a display row currently being updated. |
| US09268428B2 |
Light-sensing apparatuses, methods of driving the light-sensing apparatuses, and optical touch screen apparatuses including the light-sensing apparatuses
A light-sensing apparatus in which a light sensor transistor in a light-sensing pixel is formed of an oxide semiconductor transistor for sensing light, a method of driving the light-sensing apparatus, and an optical touch screen apparatus including the light-sensing apparatus. The light-sensing apparatus includes a light-sensing pixel array having a plurality of light-sensing pixels arranged in rows and columns, and a plurality of gate lines which are arranged in a row direction and respectively provide a gate voltage to the light-sensing pixel. Each of the light-sensing pixels includes a light sensor transistor for sensing light and a switch transistor for outputting a light-sensing signal from the light sensor transistor, and gates of the light sensor transistors of the light-sensing pixels arranged in an arbitrary row are connected to a gate line arranged in a row previous or next to the arbitrary row. |
| US09268417B2 |
Position pointer
A position pointer is provided for use with a position detection sensor, capable of achieving power saving. The position pointer includes: a first electrode configured to receive an AC signal from a position detection sensor; a transmission signal production circuit configured to produce a position signal, based on which the position detection sensor detects a position of the position pointer; a second electrode different from the first electrode and configured to transmit the position signal to the position detection sensor; a signal detection circuit configured to detect whether or not the AC signal from the position detection sensor is received through the first electrode; and a transmission controlling circuit configured to control transmission of the position signal through the second electrode to the position detection sensor in response to an output from the signal detection circuit. |
| US09268416B2 |
Touch control pen, touching control apparatus and touching detection method with image delete function thereof
A stylus includes a body, a conductive control structure, a charge transporting structure, and a signal transmission module. The body has a first end and a second end opposite to each other. The conductive control structure is configured at the first end and equipped with a control surface. The charge transporting structure is disposed at a side of the body and covers at least one portion of a hand-held region on the side of the body. Besides, the charge transporting structure is electrically coupled to the conductive control structure. The signal transmission module is disposed in the body and transmits a radio frequency signal to the second end according to a trigger signal. |
| US09268412B2 |
Input apparatus having an input recognition unit and input recognition method by using the same
Provided is an input apparatus, including: an infrared camera; an image capture unit configured to sequentially capture a plurality of temperature distribution images photographed at predetermined time intervals by the infrared camera; and an input recognition unit configured to detect, from among the plurality of temperature distribution images captured by the image capture unit, pairs of skin temperature image portions each corresponding to a temperature of skin of a person, recognize, from among the pairs of skin temperature image portions thus detected, pairs of skin temperature image portions as pairs of detection target images, from among which motions are observed, and recognize an operation input based on states of the motions of the pairs of detection target images. |
| US09268411B2 |
Method and system for controlling a display
The invention describes a method for controlling a display, which method comprises the steps of displaying a portion of a visual presentation (VP) on the display (4) and aiming a pointing device (1) comprising a camera (2) at a target area (A) to indicate a target (PT) in the visual presentation (VP), whereby the target (PT) may be inside or outside of a portion (14) of the visual presentation (VP) currently visible on the display (4). An image (3) of the target area (A) aimed at by the pointing device (1) is generated and interpreted to determine the location of the target (PT) within the visual presentation (VP). The visual presentation (VP) is adjusted as necessary to display that portion of the visual presentation (VP) which encompasses the target (PT). The invention also describes a pointing device (1), a display control interface (8, 8′, 8″) and a system comprising such a pointing device (1) and display control interface (8, 8′, 8″) suitable for applying this method. |
| US09268409B2 |
Method and system for gesture identification based on object tracing
A method and system provide light to project to an operation space so that a received image from the operation space will include, if an object is in the operation space, a bright region due to the reflection of light by the object, and identify a gesture according to the variation of a barycenter position, an average brightness, or an area of the bright region in successive images, for generating a corresponding command. Only simple operation and calculation is required to detect the motion of an object moving in the X, Y, or Z axis of an image, for identifying a gesture represented by the motion of the object. |
| US09268408B2 |
Operating area determination method and system
An operating area determination method and system are provided. In the operating area determination method, a plurality of depth maps of a target scene is generated at several time points. At least two specific depth maps among the depth maps are selected and compared to identify a moving object in the target scene, and a position of the moving object in the target scene is defined as a reference point. A standard point in the target scene is obtained according to the reference point and a specific depth corresponding to the reference point. An effective operating area in the target scene is determined according to the reference point and the standard point for controlling an electronic apparatus. |
| US09268405B2 |
Adaptive gesture-based method, system and computer program product for preventing and rehabilitating an injury
In an approach to allowing a user to operate a computing device while preventing and/or rehabilitating an injury, three-dimensional gestures of a user are translated into corresponding movement of a cursor on a display device. Different gestures can indicate the same motion of the cursor. As the user gestures to move the cursor, the software determines, based on a history of use specific to the user, whether the user can continue without feeling pain or fatigue. If it is determined that continued use will cause or is likely to cause pain or fatigue, the software can request the user to take a break, or can switch the gesture or motion required by the user to move the cursor in a similar manner. |
| US09268404B2 |
Application gesture interpretation
In a gesture-based system, gestures may control aspects of a computing environment or application, where the gestures may be derived from a user's position or movement in a physical space. A gesture-based system may have a plurality of modes, each mode a hardware configuration, a software configuration, or a combination thereof. Techniques for transitioning a user's control, via the user's gestures, between different modes enables a system to coordinate controls between multiple modes. For example, while a first mode is active, the user's gestures may control aspects of the first mode. The system may transition the user's control from a control of the first mode to a control of a second mode. The transition may be between hardware, software, or a combination thereof. In another embodiment, reserved gestures that correspond to a first mode that may be executed whether or not a second mode is present. |
| US09268397B2 |
Information processor, information processing method, and computer program product for processing information input by user
An information processor includes: a playback position holder configured to hold a content playback position at which a user starts inputting a comment on content that is being played back; and a comment information holder configured to hold the comment input by the user in association with the content playback position held by the playback position holder. |
| US09268395B2 |
Hierarchical power management circuit, power management method using the same, and system on chip including the hierarchical power management circuit
A hierarchical power management circuit includes N power management circuits respectively included in N power domains each including at least one intellectual property (IP), wherein N is a natural number greater than one. The i-th (1 |
| US09268392B2 |
Information processing apparatus, control method therefor, and storage medium
An information processing apparatus to which an external device is attachable includes an initialization unit configured to, when the information processing apparatus is activated from a power-off state, execute initialization of the external device, and not to, when the information processing apparatus is returned from a power-saving state, execute the initialization of the external device. |
| US09268388B2 |
Power saving method
A power saving method is provided. The power saving method is applicable to an electronic device including a display unit. The method comprises the steps of determining a start point on the display unit, determining whether the start point is located in a bright area of the display unit, receiving a signal corresponding to an end point on the display unit, generating a trigger signal according to the start point and the end point, and darkening the brightness of an area between the start point and the end point on the display unit according to the trigger signal. |
| US09268387B2 |
Method for saving power consumption and an electronic device thereof
An apparatus and method for signal saving power consumption in an electronic device includes determining a current battery consumption amount, and if the current battery consumption amount is greater than or equal to a threshold, determining whether to enter a low power mode based on the level of a signal strength level. |
| US09268386B2 |
Methods and systems for dynamic service flow using available battery power
Certain embodiments of the present disclosure relate to methods for improving a service flow of a mobile device based upon a different level of its available battery power. If the battery power availability is below a predefined threshold, then one or more power-saving techniques can be triggered that increase an air time of the mobile device and provide savings of power consumption at different rates using a different level of clock rate. |
| US09268385B2 |
Introducing selective energy efficiency in a virtual environment
In some embodiments, a method comprises hosting a virtual universe in which one or more avatars interact with one or more virtual objects. The method can also include presenting energy conservation options that reduce amounts of power consumed in rendering the avatars and virtual objects in the virtual universe, detecting a selection of the energy conservation options, and configuring logic for rendering the avatars and virtual objects according to the selected energy conservation options. The method can also comprise rendering, according to the selection of energy conservation options, the avatars and virtual objects in the virtual universe. |
| US09268383B2 |
Power over ethernet method, apparatus, device, and system
The application pertains to a method for an Ethernet power sourcing equipment to provide electric power to one or more Ethernet powered devices. A controlling apparatus determines a power supply mode of the Ethernet power sourcing equipment, and determines high-power Ethernet powered device(s) and low-power Ethernet powered device(s) among the Ethernet powered devices. The controlling apparatus sets a power supply priority for each of the Ethernet powered devices. In one power supply mode, the power supply priority of a high-power Ethernet powered device is same as or lower than the lowest priority of the low-power Ethernet powered device(s). When a new Ethernet powered device is connected to the Ethernet power sourcing equipment, the controlling apparatus determines whether to supply electric power to the new Ethernet powered device according to its power supply priority. |
| US09268382B2 |
Method and system for monitoring resource usage of logical domains
A method for obtaining power management data for a system executing by at least one processor, where a plurality of logical domains are executing on the system. The method includes determining, using the power management data, power consumption for each of the plurality of logical domains and receiving a request for power consumption information for the system. The method further includes providing, in response to the request, the power consumption information, where the power consumption information specifies the power consumption for at least one of the plurality of logical domains. |
| US09268381B2 |
Terminal device and power supply method for terminal device
The present invention is applicable to the interface field, and in particular, relates to a power supply method for a terminal device, where the terminal device is communicatively connected to an accessory device. The method includes: detecting, by the terminal device, an ID resistance value of the accessory device; identifying a type of the accessory device according to the detected ID resistance value; selecting a power supply mode of the terminal device according to the identified type of the accessory device; and supplying power according to the selected power supply mode. In this way, the power input or output of the terminal device is free from the restriction of an OTG working mode of the terminal device. |
| US09268380B2 |
Computer with force sensing resistor
A computer includes a motherboard with a signal receiving port and a switch circuit. The switch circuit includes a force sensing module and a transistor. The transistor includes a first terminal connected to the force sensing module, a second terminal connected to a power source, and a third terminal connected to the signal receiving port. When there is a pressure applied to the force sensing module, the force sensing module outputs a first driving signal to turn on the transistor and enables the computer to maintain its current power on or off state. When there is no pressure applied to the force sensing module, the force sensing module outputs a second driving signal to turn off the transistor and switches on or off the computer. |
| US09268377B2 |
Electronic device having a passive heat exchange device
An electronic device is provided that includes a base having a first side and a second side, and a lid having a first side and a second side. A hinge device may couple to the base and the lid, and may allow the lid to move relative to the base between the closed state and the opened state. A heat exchange device may be adjacent to the hinge device in an area between the base and the lid. The heat exchange device may receive heat from a component in the base. |
| US09268374B2 |
Protection for touchpad
A touchpad includes at least one supporting plate and at least one flexible printed circuit fixed to the supporting plate. The supporting plate includes at least one first electrical protection track, made by a conductive ink, connected to at least one connection track with a predetermined value of potential and at least one connection track for connection towards a processor. |
| US09268372B1 |
Multi-joint synchronous rotary axle structure
A multi-joint synchronous rotary axle structure includes a middle shaft and two parallel side shafts at two sides of the middle shaft. A first synchronous actuating assembly and a second synchronous actuating assembly are provided at two opposite positions of the middle shaft and the side shafts, which are connected in a reverse link relationship. The two side shafts can be rotated about the middle shaft to generate a synchronous reverse turning. A two-way shaft plate is provided between the middle shaft and each of the side shafts to provide the torsion of tuning so as to form a compact multi-joint synchronous rotary axle structure. |
| US09268364B2 |
Ergonomic data entry device
A data entry device includes a housing comprising a front and rear surface and laterally separated grip portions each configured to engage with a hand of a user. The user may thereby support the housing by engaging the grip portions of the housing. The rear surface includes first and second generally concave portions disposed proximate the first and second grip portions, which curve generally towards the hand of the user when the housing is supported by the user. The device further includes input keys positioned on each of the first and second generally concave portions of the rear surface such that the user may actuate the input keys with fingers of each hand while engaging the grip portions, and such that the generally concave portions facilitate ergonomic access to the input keys. |
| US09268361B2 |
Portable electrical device
A portable electrical device includes a tablet PC, a bottom plate, a support arm and a pivot portion. The tablet PC includes a breach and a first magnetic inducing member arranged inside the breach. One end of the support arm is pivoted to the bottom plate, and the other end of the support arm is pivoted to the pivot portion, and the other end of the pivot portion is with a second magnetic inducing member. When the second magnetic inducing member is moved into the breach to magnetize the first magnetic inducing member, the tablet PC is securely coupled with the pivot portion so that the tablet PC can be rotated; on the contrary, when the second magnetic inducing member is removed from the breach, the tablet PC can be totally independent to the support arm and the bottom plate. |
| US09268356B2 |
Modular knob system
Embodiments of a modular knob system include a modular knob shell, bearing componentry, and detent componentry. A specific knob shell embodiment may accommodate various different detent mechanisms so that a single knob shell can be used with numerous switching mechanisms. The knob system also may include electronic, magnetic or other sensors. |
| US09268349B2 |
Circuit and method for optimizing input voltage range of IC chip
The present invention relates to a circuit and method for optimizing an input voltage range of an IC chip. In the circuit, a pull-up unit, receives an input voltage and then outputs a corresponding voltage level; a trigger unit compares the voltage level output by the pull-up unit with a given threshold voltage, and outputs an enabling signal of corresponding level to an enabling end of the IC chip based on the comparison result, so as to control the IC chip to start/stop; and a voltage stabilizing unit receives the voltage levels output by the pull-up unit and the trigger unit, and then outputs a voltage of corresponding level to the pull-up unit based on the voltage levels output by the pull-up unit and the trigger unit, so that the voltage level output by the pull-up unit is higher than or equal to the threshold voltage and thereby the IC chip starts operation, or so that the voltage level output by the pull-up unit is maintained to be higher than or equal to the threshold voltage and thereby the operation of the IC chip is not affected by variations of the input voltage. The present invention can ensure that when the input voltage is changed within a certain range the IC still can work in a normal manner. |
| US09268348B2 |
Reference power generating circuit and electronic circuit using the same
A reference power generating circuit and an electronic circuit using the same are provided. The reference power generating circuit includes a first bandgap reference circuit and a second bandgap reference circuit. The first bandgap reference circuit is biased by a power voltage to generate a first reference voltage, where the first reference voltage has a first offset. The second bandgap reference circuit is connected to the first bandgap reference circuit in series and receives the first reference voltage generated by the first bandgap reference circuit. The second bandgap reference circuit is biased by the first reference voltage to generate a baseline reference voltage. The baseline reference voltage has a second offset, and the second offset is smaller than the first offset. |
| US09268346B2 |
Reactor with accurate temperature control
Disclosed herein is a reactor including, a plurality of reaction regions, and a plurality of heaters, each arranged in each of the reaction regions, wherein the heater including a semiconductor heat generating element and a semiconductor temperature detecting element and being capable of independent temperature control, and the temperature detecting element having a heat conduction region of metal thin film in its surrounding region. |
| US09268343B2 |
Cooling system
A method of operating a cooling system for a hardware component is disclosed. The cooling system comprises one or more cooling devices and the method comprising the steps of monitoring commands that result in one or more operations for the hardware component, detecting a command that will result in a processing intensive operation for the hardware component, and operating a cooling device to cool the hardware component, in response to the detected operation. In a preferred embodiment, following the detection of a command that will result in a processing intensive operation for the hardware component, a predefined profile for the specific operation is accessed, and the operation of the cooling device to cool the hardware component, in response to the detected operation, comprises operating the cooling device according to predefined profile. The profile can be created automatically following previous operations. |
| US09268341B2 |
Thermostatic cartridge for the regulation of hot and cold fluids to be mixed
The cartridge comprises a slide valve for regulating the temperature of a mixture of hot and cold fluids. The slide valve is, under the action of a thermostatic element and in relation to an outer casing of the cartridge, which can be displaced along the central axis of the casing in such a way as to vary inversely the respective flow sections of an inlet for a first of the fluids, delimited axially between the casing and one of the two opposite axial surfaces of the slide valve, and of an inlet for the second fluid, delimited axially between the casing and the other axial surface of the slide valve. Therefore the cartridge can, effectively and economically, provide a good mixture of the two fluids, a flow passage. |
| US09268340B2 |
Flow balancing in gas distribution networks
Flow distribution networks that supply process gas to two or more stations in a multi-station deposition chamber. Each flow distribution network includes an inlet and flow distribution lines for carrying process gas to the stations. The flow distribution lines include a branch point downstream from the inlet and two or more branches downstream from the branch point. Each branch supplies a station. The flow distribution network also includes highly variable flow elements in each branch. Restrictive components are placed downstream from the variable control elements in each branch. These restrictive components are nominally identical and designed to shift the bulk of the pressure drop away from the variable flow components to improve flow balancing while not unduly increasing inlet pressure. In some cases, the load shifting allows the more variable flow components to operate in the unchoked flow regime. |
| US09268338B2 |
Fluid dispensing apparatus and method
A fluid dispenser and method of operating the same. The fluid dispenser can include a wheel driven by diluent passing along a flow path in the fluid dispenser. The wheel can be connected to a pump to pump fluid from a reservoir for dispense into the diluent. In some embodiments, the ratio of wheel rotations to pump cycles is selected to provide a desired and repeatable dilution ratio of concentrated fluid to diluent. The fluid dispenser can be portable and/or disposable, and in some embodiments is adapted for installation on an upper rim of a reservoir wall. Also, the fluid dispenser can be provided with a baffle limiting the velocity and impact of incoming diluent to the wheel driving the pump, thereby improving dosing accuracy of the dispenser in some embodiments. |
| US09268336B2 |
Ground vehicle-like control for remote control aircraft
A hand-held radio transmit controller for remotely controlling an aircraft, and a method for controlling a remote control aircraft offering ground vehicle-like control. |
| US09268335B2 |
Autonomous vehicle and its failure determination method
An autonomous vehicle comprises at least one distance measurement means for measuring a distance to a road surface disposed in a vehicle main body, inclination calculation means for calculating an inclination of the vehicle main body based on the distance measured by the distance measurement means, posture calculation means including a sensor that detects at least one of an angular speed and an acceleration of the vehicle main body, the posture calculation means being configured to calculate the inclination of the vehicle main body based on a sensor value detected by the sensor, and failure determination means for determining a failure in each distance measurement means and the posture calculation means by comparing the inclination of the vehicle main body calculated by the inclination calculation means with the inclination of the vehicle main body calculated by the posture calculation means. |
| US09268332B2 |
Zone driving
A roadgraph may include a graph network of information such as roads, lanes, intersections, and the connections between these features. The roadgraph may also include one or more zones associated with particular rules. The zones may include locations where driving is typically challenging such as merges, construction zones, or other obstacles. In one example, the rules may require an autonomous vehicle to alert a driver that the vehicle is approaching a zone. The vehicle may thus require a driver to take control of steering, acceleration, deceleration, etc. In another example, the zones may be designated by a driver and may be broadcast to other nearby vehicles, for example using a radio link or other network such that other vehicles may be able to observer the same rule at the same location or at least notify the other vehicle's drivers that another driver felt the location was unsafe for autonomous driving. |
| US09268328B2 |
Production efficiency improving apparatus, production efficiency improving method, and computer program
A production efficiency improving apparatus includes a first communicating means for communicating information with a plurality of processing apparatuses that process objects, and a second communicating means for communicating conveyance control information, with a conveyance system comprising conveyance apparatuses for conveying the objects between the plurality of processing apparatuses. A means for predicting, on the basis of information communicated by the first communicating means, the conveying timing at which the processing apparatus needs to send out processed objects, and the conveying timing at which the processing apparatus needs to bring in unprocessed objects. A generating means generates the control information such that the conveyance apparatus will arrive at the processing apparatus that is the destination of the communication of information at the predicted timing predicted by the means for predicting. |
| US09268325B2 |
Manufacturing process monitoring system and manufacturing process monitoring method
According to one embodiment, a manufacturing process monitoring system for monitoring anomaly in a manufacturing process for products, the system includes an information storage section, a selection information section, a reference space formation section and a monitoring section. The information storage section is configured to store previously collected data. The selection information section is configured to create information used in classifying the data stored in the information storage section. The reference space formation section is configured to form a reference space based on data subjected to anomaly monitoring acquired in the manufacturing process and the data classified by the information from the data stored in the information storage section. The monitoring section is configured to monitor anomaly of the data subjected to anomaly monitoring based on the reference space. |
| US09268324B2 |
Remote operation receiving system, remote operating system and program thereof
The present invention relates to a remote operation receiving system, for suppressing the generation of the executive results of the action which don't meet the operating aim. The host unit of a local server may enable a target equipment to perform the corresponding action according to a remote operation instruction received from a remote operating device (S400). Based on the history data, the condition variation in the target equipment generated between the operation reference timing to the current timing is detected (S320˜S345). The operation reference timing refers to the time point when the condition displayed on the screen in a distant device is monitored from the monitoring device when the distant operating device is operated. If the condition variation is relatively large, then the remote operation instruction is abandoned (S430), and if smaller, then the target equipment performs the action to which the remote operation instruction corresponds (S400). |
| US09268322B2 |
Method and apparatus for creating numerical control machining program and program for causing computer to implement same method
An apparatus that creates, based on shape data of an object to be machined and grinding allowance data for the shape data, a numerically controlled machining program that has the grinding allowance data reflected in the shape data, is configured to include storing means 2 and 4 that store the shape data of the object to be machined and the grinding allowance data; a shape data modification means 5 that modifies the shape data to create, based on the grinding allowance data, shape data having a grinding allowance; and a numerically controlled machining program creation means 6 that creates a numerically controlled machining program for the modified shape data, with the apparatus enabling easy and efficient creation of a numerically controlled machining program having the grinding allowance reflected in the shape data. |
| US09268321B2 |
Digital tiggering using finite state machines
An apparatus that can be configured for various functions such as a digital oscilloscope, logic analyzer or frequency analyzer is disclosed. The apparatus includes a symbol generator, a multi-symbol FSM, and a controller. The symbol generator generates an ordered sequence of symbols from an ordered sequence of digital values. The symbol generator generates one symbol corresponding to each of the digital values. The digital values have a greater number of possible values than the symbols. The controller causes the multi-symbol FSM to search for a pattern in the sequence of symbols that identifies a corresponding pattern in the sequence of digital values. A portion of the digital sequence is then displayed based on the location of the pattern in the sequence of symbols. |
| US09268319B2 |
Controller enclosure, mounting and orientation of same
A controlling and monitoring control application associated with one or more work operations of one or more utility devices is disclosed. The controller is programmed for controlling one or more external work operations associated with one or more utility devices. An I/O board is connected in communication with the primary controller having a module with a plurality of device-specific control applications associated with one or more device-specific work operations. The housing of the controller includes one or more cable access points for plugging a cable into the controller. The cable access points are sealed to prevent water from entering into the housing. A mounting bracket assembly provides flexibility for mounting the controller at various orientations and/or positions. The controller also includes a DC control circuit for controlling backlight luminance over the entire dimming ratio. |
| US09268318B2 |
Air conditioner, method for controlling outdoor units thereof, and central control system having the same
Disclosed are an air conditioner, a method for controlling outdoor units thereof, and a central control system having the same. A mode conversion unit such as a boot loader is provided to perform a mode conversion between a driving control mode and an upgrade mode in a software manner, without requiring a user's visit to the site. This may allow an outdoor unit control program to be remotely upgraded. In the present disclosure, the air conditioner may return to a previous mode or previous program in the occurrence of an error on an upgrade signal or upgrade program. |
| US09268315B2 |
Extended active disturbance rejection controller
Multiple designs, systems, methods and processes for controlling a system or plant using an extended active disturbance rejection control (ADRC) based controller are presented. The extended ADRC controller accepts sensor information from the plant. The sensor information is used in conjunction with an extended state observer in combination with a predictor that estimates and predicts the current state of the plant and a co-joined estimate of the system disturbances and system dynamics. The extended state observer estimates and predictions are used in conjunction with a control law that generates an input to the system based in part on the extended state observer estimates and predictions as well as a desired trajectory for the plant to follow. |
| US09268312B2 |
Changing the operating mode of an electronic device associated with a transport unit
It is inter alia disclosed an apparatus (1; 3) with a detecting means (2) for detecting whether a transport unit (4) to be transported by a vehicle is secured by at least one securing means (5; 7) against a movement in at least one direction relative to the vehicle, and with a means (10; 30) for changing an operating mode of an electronic device associated with the transport unit (4) depending upon a result of the detecting, or for outputting a signal for changing the operating mode depending on a result of the detecting. Moreover, a corresponding method (200; 300; 400), a corresponding computer program and an apparatus (1′) for receiving the output signal and for changing the operating mode on the basis of the received signal are disclosed. |
| US09268309B2 |
Timepiece with rotating moon and earth displays
A timepiece includes: a central pivot; a central disk rotatable in a clockwise or counterclockwise direction around the central pivot; a stationary 24-hour scale arranged concentric to the central pivot; a sun mark; a large moon disk, the large moon disk being rotatably drivable in the counterclockwise direction at a rate of one revolution per synodic month; a moon view aperture in the large moon disk; and a small moon disk mounted at the large moon disk so as to be rotatable around a moon pivot parallel to the central pivot, the small moon disk carrying a plurality of dark circular areas. The dark circular areas are movable successively into registration with the moon view aperture and successively out of registration with the moon view aperture by the rotational movement of the small moon disk. |
| US09268308B2 |
Timepiece
The present invention relates to a timepiece comprising a frame, at least one driving gear (2), and at least one tourbillon mechanism including: a first cage (4) which can rotate about a first axis (A) and on which a balance (6) and an escapement gear are pivotably mounted, said escapement gear being formed by an escape wheel and an escape pinion; a second cage (8) rotatably movable about a second axis (B) and supporting the first cage (4); and a third cage (10) rotatably movable about a third axis (C), said third cage (10) supporting the first and second cages (4, 8) and kinematically driving same. Two of the first, second and third axes (A, B, C) are perpendicular to one another, with the remaining first, second or third axis (A, B, C) forming an angle other than 0° and 90° with one of the other two axes (A, B, C). |
| US09268297B2 |
Indicator and image forming apparatus incorporating same
An indicator disposed on an openably closable door disposed on a part of an exterior panel includes a light source disposed on a housing positioned in an interior of the door and a diffusion lens disposed on the door and opposed to the light source, wherein the light source is mounted on a support part disposed on the housing so that an optical axis of the light source is coincident with that of the diffusion lens. The door includes a recessed portion including a retainer, and the diffusion lens is supported in the recessed portion with the retainer pressing an external surface of the diffusion lens entirely so that the light from the light source is prevented from leaking from the surface of the door. |
| US09268295B2 |
Developing cartridge
A developing cartridge may include a housing configured to hold toner. The cartridge may further include a developing roller including a developing roller shaft, a supply roller including a supply roller shaft, a developing electrode and a supply electrode. The developing electrode and supply electrode may be configured to guide an electrical contact of an image forming apparatus in one or more directions. In some examples, the developing electrode and supply electrode may have angled surfaces that extend toward one another. |
| US09268291B2 |
Image forming apparatus having circuit board
An image forming apparatus includes an image forming unit, a pair of frames, a connecting member, a supply board, and a control board. The image forming unit includes a photosensitive body configured to carry developer and an exposure unit configured to scan and expose the photosensitive body to light. The pair of frames is disposed in a horizontal direction opposite to each other with the image forming unit being positioned therebetween. The connecting member extends in the horizontal direction and supports the exposure unit. The connecting member has each longitudinal end portion connected to each of the pair of frames. The supply board is configured to supply electric power to an electric motor. The control board is configured to control operation of the image forming unit. At least one of the control board and the supply board is supported to the connecting member. |
| US09268287B2 |
Sheet feed device and image forming apparatus
A sheet feed device of an image forming apparatus includes an outside cover and an inside cover. The outside cover opens and closes a side of a housing. The inside cover is disposed more inside of the housing than the outside cover. Each of the covers is rotatably supported with a lower end thereof as a fulcrum by the housing. A first locking piece is provided in the upper end of the outside cover, and a second locking piece is disposed below the first locking piece. A coupled portion configured to be selectively coupled with the first locking piece or the second locking piece is provided in the inside cover. During the process where the outside cover is rotationally moved in the opening direction, the coupled portion is once released from the coupling with the first locking piece, and then is coupled with the second locking piece. |
| US09268283B1 |
Toner supply device
According to one embodiment, a toner supply device includes a motor and an estimating unit. The motor rotates a toner container that supplies a toner to an image forming apparatus. The estimating unit estimates a toner residual amount in the toner container at a second point in time on the basis of a total rotation time representing time in which the motor rotates in a period of use from a first point in time when the toner container is attached to the image forming apparatus to the second point in time. |
| US09268280B2 |
Heating apparatus and image forming apparatus
The heating apparatus includes a first detection part which detects whether or not the power supplied to the heat generation member is in an overpower state by detecting a positive phase of a half wave in an alternating voltage of a commercial power supply applied to the first or the second current path of the heat generation member, a second detection part which detects whether the power supplied to the heat generation member is in an overpower state or not by detecting a negative phase of a half wave in an alternating voltage the commercial power supply applied to the first current path or the second current path of the heat generation member, and a control part which controls itself to stop supplying power from the commercial power supply to the heat generation member in a case where an overpower state is detected by the first or second detection part. |
| US09268279B1 |
Image forming apparatus performing mark data generating processes twice and determining whether difference between two sets of data based on mark data generating processes is within prescribed range
In an image forming apparatus, a processor is configured to: determine whether prescribed criterion is met, the prescribed criterion indicating that a non agitation period of time, during which the agitator has not agitated the toner, has passed a predetermined period of time; perform a mark data generating process in which mark data is generated by forming a mark and reading the formed mark when the prescribed criterion is met; perform another mark data generating process in which another mark data is generated by forming another mark and reading the formed another mark after performing the mark data generating process; determine whether a difference between the mark data and the another mark data is within a prescribed range; and determine an adjustment value on a basis of at least one of the mark data and the another mark data when the difference is within the prescribed range. |
| US09268275B2 |
Image forming apparatus with mechanism to narrow recording material feeding path
An image forming apparatus includes a fixing portion for fixing an image on a recording material while feeding the recording material carrying the image; a guiding member, provided downstream of the fixing portion with respect to a feeding direction of the recording material, for guiding the recording material; and an openable member for opening and closing a main assembly of the image forming apparatus, wherein the guiding member moves to narrow a feeding path of the recording material when the openable member is opened. |
| US09268268B2 |
Heating device controlling heating switch to perform switching action based on signal
In a heating device, a detector detects AC voltage of the AC power source. A control device detects a zero-cross timing of the AC voltage by using the detector and generate a signal having a high level period of time, a low level period of time, a rising transition changing from a low level to a high level, and a falling transition changing from the high level to the low level. The signal is such a form that at least one of the rising transition and the falling transition is in incoincidence with the zero-cross timing. The control device controls the heating switch to perform a switching action in which the heating switch is rendered on when the zero-cross timing is detected during the high level period of time and rendered off when the zero-cross timing is detected during the low level period of time. |
| US09268264B2 |
Image forming apparatus with lubrication supply
A mode is executed so that a lubricant applying member is rotated based on an image formation start signal, and thereafter a rotation drive of an image bearing member is started. |
| US09268261B2 |
Developing device for preventing toner leakage
A developing device includes a frame, a developing roller, a blade unit, and a first seal member. A blade unit extends in an axial direction of the developing roller and in contact with the peripheral surface thereof. The first seal member is configured to seal a boundary between the frame and the axial end portions of the developing roller. The frame has a fixing portion to which end portions of the blade is fixed. The fixing portion has a support surface having an outer edge and an inner edge in the axial direction. The outer edge is positioned outward of an inner edge of the first seal member in the axial direction, and the inner edge of the support surface is positioned inward of the inner edge of the first seal member in the axial direction. |
| US09268259B2 |
Developer material holding apparatus, supporting apparatus that supports the developer material holding apparatus, and image forming apparatus
A toner cartridge is supported on a supporting apparatus and includes a chamber that holds toner therein. A shutter has a first engagement portion and is slidably mounted on the toner cartridge and is configured to open and close the opening. A second engagement portion is formed on a body of the toner cartridge. The supporting apparatus includes a supporting surface that supports the toner cartridge thereon. A first limiting element limits movement of the toner cartridge in an insertion direction of the toner cartridge. A stopper limits movement of the shutter in the insertion direction when the toner cartridge is inserted into the supporting apparatus. A second limiting element engages the first engagement portion and the second engagement portion to limit movement of the toner cartridge in a pull-out direction of the toner cartridge and movement of the shutter in the pull-out direction. |
| US09268253B2 |
Image forming apparatus with light amount control
A droop characteristic or an inverse droop characteristic may fail to be sufficiently corrected depending on the temperature of a semiconductor laser. An image forming apparatus includes a droop correction unit configured to supply a correction current of which an attenuation tendency or a gradual increase tendency changes according to data about the temperature. |
| US09268249B2 |
Charging device
A charging device includes: a casing provided with an opening opposing a member-to-be-charged; a discharging wire provided in the casing; a grid electrode provided in the opening; a shutter for opening and closing the opening; a cleaning member for cleaning the grid electrode; and a moving mechanism for reciprocating the shutter and the cleaning member along a longitudinal direction of the opening. The moving mechanism includes a driving member for being rotationally driven, a first moving member, held by the driving member, for moving the shutter with rotational drive of the driving member, and a second moving member, held by the driving member, for moving the cleaning member with the rotational drive of the driving member. The charging device further includes: a mechanism for forming an interval between the shutter and the cleaning member so that the cleaning member moves in advance of the shutter by a predetermined distance when the shutter moves in a closing direction; and a stopper for stopping movement of the cleaning member, and the second moving member includes a holding portion for permitting idling when the shutter moves in the closing direction toward the cleaning member, stopped by the stopper, with rotation of the driving member. |
| US09268248B2 |
Corona charger including shutter
A charging device includes a corona charger, provided with an opening opposing a photosensitive member, for electrically charging the photosensitive member; a sheet-like member provided so that the sheet-like member can cover the opening; a movable device for moving the sheet-like member; and a regulating device for regulating a shape of the sheet-like member so that a central portion of the sheet-like member protrudes toward the corona charger with respect to a circumferential direction of the photosensitive member. |
| US09268246B2 |
Method for manufacturing carrier core particles for electrophotographic developer, carrier core particles for electrophotographic developer, carrier for electrophotographic developer, and electrophotographic developer
Provided is a method for manufacturing carrier core particles for electrophotographic developer capable of stably maintaining high chargeability over a long time. The method for manufacturing carrier core particles includes a granulation step of granulating a mixture of raw materials containing manganese, iron, strontium, and calcium and a firing step of firing the mixture granulated in the granulation step. The firing step includes a heating process of heating the granular mixture with an increase in temperature to a predetermined degree and a cooling process of cooling the granular mixture, after the heating process, in an atmosphere with an oxygen concentration ranging from 5000 ppm to 20000 ppm. The molar ratio of the sum of strontium and calcium to the sum of the manganese, iron, strontium, and calcium is 0.0026 to 0.013. |
| US09268242B2 |
Lithographic apparatus and device manufacturing method involving a heater and a temperature sensor
A lithographic apparatus is described having a liquid supply system configured to at least partly fill a space between a projection system of the lithographic apparatus and a substrate with liquid, a barrier member arranged to substantially contain the liquid within the space, and a heater. |
| US09268240B2 |
Exposure apparatus, exposure method, and device fabrication method
The present invention provides an exposure apparatus which transfers a pattern of a mask to a substrate, including a measurement unit configured to measure, at a first measurement point and a second measurement point, a height of a measurement target portion in a shot region of the substrate held by a stage, and a control unit configured to move the stage in a direction of height of the substrate based on a correction result of correcting, by a set correction value, a measured height of the measurement target portion at the first measurement point in a acceleration period of the stage, and when a measured height of the measurement target portion at the second measurement point in the constant speed period of the stage deviates from an allowable range, obtain a new correction value instead of the set correction value. |
| US09268235B2 |
Controller for optical device, exposure method and apparatus, and method for manufacturing device
An exposure method for exposing a mask pattern, which includes plural types of patterns, with a high throughput and optimal illumination conditions for each type of pattern. The method includes guiding light from a first spatial light modulator illuminated with pulse lights of illumination light to a second spatial light modulator and exposing a wafer with light from the second spatial light modulator, accompanied by: controlling a conversion state of the second spatial light modulator including a plurality of second mirror elements; and controlling a conversion state of the first spatial light modulator including a plurality of first mirror elements to control intensity distribution of the illumination light on a predetermined plane between the first spatial light modulator and the second spatial light modulator. |
| US09268234B2 |
Charged particle beam lithography apparatus and charged particle beam pattern writing method
A apparatus, includes a unit to operate a number of other correction processing sections written before a relevant correction processing section, to ensure that a calculation time to calculate amounts of temperature rise for the all correction processing sections to does not exceed a pattern writing time for the all correction processing sections by using an average pattern writing time, an average calculation time for one of the amounts of temperature rise, and a degree of parallelism of computers to calculate the amounts of temperature rise; a unit to calculate a representative temperature of the relevant correction processing section based on heat transfers from the other correction processing sections of the number; and a unit to modulate a dose of beam irradiated on the relevant correction processing section by using the representative temperature. |
| US09268231B2 |
Liquid immersion member, exposure apparatus, exposing method, method for manufacturing device, program, and recording medium
A liquid immersion member forms a liquid immersion space on an object which is movable below an optical member so that an optical path of exposure light emitted from an emitting surface of the optical member is filled with liquid. The liquid immersion member includes a first member that has a first lower surface, a second member that has a second upper surface which faces the first lower surface via a gap and a second lower surface which the object is able to face, and that is movable with respect to the first member, and a recovery part that recovers at least a portion of a liquid from a second space, which is between the second lower surface and the object, at an outside of the second lower surface with respect to the optical path. |
| US09268229B2 |
Composition for forming resist underlayer film, and pattern-forming method
A composition for forming a resist underlayer film includes a polysiloxane, and a solvent composition. The solvent composition includes an organic solvent which includes a compound represented by the following formula (1) or a carbonate compound and which has a standard boiling point of no less than 150.0° C. R1 and R2 each independently represent a hydrogen atom, an alkyl group having 1 to 4 carbon atoms or an acyl group having 1 to 4 carbon atoms. R3 represents a hydrogen atom or a methyl group. n is an integer of 1 to 4. In a case where n is no less than 2, a plurality of R3s are identical or different. |
| US09268223B2 |
Forming conductive metal pattern using reactive polymers
A conductive metal pattern is formed in a polymeric layer that has a reactive polymer that comprises (1) pendant groups that are capable of providing pendant sulfonic acid groups upon exposure to radiation, and (2) pendant groups that are capable of reacting in the presence of the sulfonic acid groups to provide crosslinking. The polymeric layer is patternwise exposed to provide a polymeric layer comprising non-exposed regions and exposed regions comprising a polymer comprising pendant sulfonic acid groups. The exposed regions are contacted with electroless seed metal ions to form a pattern of electroless seed metal ions. The electroless seed metal ions are reduced to provide a pattern of electroless seed metal nuclei that are then electrolessly plated with a conductive metal. |
| US09268221B2 |
Positive photosensitive resin composition, photosensitive resin layer prepared by using the same, and semiconductor device including the photosensitive resin layer
Provided is a positive photosensitive resin composition that includes (A) a polybenzoxazole precursor including a first polybenzoxazole precursor including a repeating unit represented by Chemical Formula 1 and a repeating unit represented by Chemical Formula 2, and having a thermally polymerizable functional group at least one terminal end; (B) a photosensitive diazoquinone compound; (C) a silane compound; (D) a phenol compound; and (E) a solvent. A photosensitive resin film fabricated using the positive photosensitive resin composition is provided. |
| US09268219B2 |
Photoresist composition and resist pattern-forming method
A photoresist composition includes a polymer that includes a first structural unit shown by a formula (1), and an acid generator. R1 represents a hydrogen atom, a fluorine atom, a methyl group, or a trifluoromethyl group. R2 represents a divalent hydrocarbon group having 1 to 10 carbon atoms. A represents —COO—*, —OCO—*, —O—, —S—, or —NH—, wherein “*” indicates a site bonded to R3. R3 represents a single bond or a divalent hydrocarbon group having 1 to 10 carbon atoms. The polymer preferably further includes a second structural unit that includes an acid-labile group. |
| US09268213B2 |
Pellicle for lithogrpahy
There is provided a pellicle wherein the frame is cut with one or more slight-chamfers, and in particular the one cut along the inner edge of the upper annular face of the frame, to which the pellicle membrane is glued, has a slope greater than 45 degrees so that the pellicle membrane when slackened does not touch the lower ridge of the slight chamfer. |
| US09268210B2 |
Double-exposure mask structure and photolithography method thereof
Double-exposure mask structure and photolithography method for performing a photolithography process on a substrate are provided. The substrate has a central region and a margin region. A double-exposure mask structure includes a plurality of parallel and spaced first masks corresponding to the central region, a plurality of parallel and spaced second masks corresponding to the central region, and a plurality of auxiliary masks. The second masks intersect with the first masks to form a plurality of overlapping regions. The auxiliary masks are not in contact with one another, and correspond to the Second masks to assist the overlapping regions neighboring to the auxiliary masks to have sufficient depth of focus for photolithography. With the auxiliary masks, the overlapping regions in the central region and neighboring to the margin region can have preferred photolithography and etching effect. |
| US09268203B1 |
Magnetically coupling a system to a surface
A system may magnetically attach to a surface, such as a ceiling, wall, table, or other surface within an environment. For instance, a ceiling within an environment may include a magnet and a housing of the system may comprise a ferromagnetic material. Therefore, the system may magnetically couple to the ceiling for use. The system may be configured to move across the surface while remaining magnetically coupled to the surface. |
| US09268200B2 |
Camera housing
A camera housing comprises a four-sided frame. A first side of the four-sided frame includes a first segment, a second segment, and a latch mechanism with a first latch component and a second latch component. The first latch component and the second latch component are pivotally coupled such that in a closed position, the frame securely encloses a camera and in an open position, the first segment and the second segment are separable. |
| US09268190B1 |
Pixel structure, manufacturing method of pixel structure, array substrate, and display panel
The disclosure provides a pixel structure, a manufacturing method of a pixel structure, an array substrate, a display panel, and a display device. The pixel structure includes a plurality of data lines and a plurality of scan lines, and a plurality of pixel units formed by intersecting the plurality of data lines with the plurality of scan lines. A pixel unit corresponds to one of the plurality of data lines and one of the plurality of scan lines. The pixel unit includes a pixel electrode and a TFT. The pixel electrode includes a plurality of slits having corners. The pixel electrode of the pixel unit in a row is electrically connected to a TFT of a pixel unit in a preceding adjacent row of the pixel electrode of the pixel unit, and the corner of the pixel electrode close to the TFT extends toward the thin film transistor. |
| US09268186B2 |
Array substrate, display panel and display device
Embodiments of the invention provide an array substrate, a display panel and a display device. The array substrate comprises: a plurality of data lines extending in a first direction, a counter substrate region, a plurality of data pad regions and a data repair line extending in a second direction. The counter substrate region is a projection region of a counter substrate on the array substrate after the counter substrate and the array substrate are bonded together. One end of several data lines is disposed in one data pad region, and the plurality of data pad regions are disposed on one side of the array substrate and positioned outside the counter substrate region. The data repair line is provided inside the counter substrate region, along an edge of the counter substrate region and is proximate to the plurality of data pad regions. |
| US09268177B2 |
Liquid crystal display panel and pixel electrode structure thereof
A pixel electrode structure including a first electrode and a second electrode is provided. The first electrode has a first stripe electrode extended along a first direction and pleural first branch electrodes connected to the first strip electrode. The first branch electrodes include pleural first branch domain electrodes extended along a second direction and pleural second branch domain electrodes extended along a third direction substantially perpendicular to the second direction. The second electrode has a second stripe electrode extended along the first direction and pleural second branch electrodes connected to the second stripe electrode. The second branch electrodes include pleural third branch domain electrodes extended along the second direction and pleural fourth branch domain electrodes extended along the third direction. The first and the third branch domain electrodes are alternated to each other. The second and the fourth branch domain electrodes are alternated to each other. |
| US09268175B2 |
Display device
A liquid crystal display device includes a display panel, a parallax barrier, and a spacer. The display panel includes a display area in which an image is displayed and a display surrounding area located around the display area. The parallax barrier includes a separation area and a separation surrounding area located around the separation area. The image displayed on the display panel is separated by parallax in the separation area. The parallax barrier is attached to the display panel with a space between the separation surrounding area of the parallax barrier and the display surrounding area of the display panel. The spacer is arranged in the space. The spacer is configured to define a distance between the display surrounding area of the display panel and the separation surrounding area of the parallax barrier. |
| US09268174B2 |
Rubbing device and rubbing method
The present invention relates to a rubbing device and a rubbing method. The rubbing device includes: a substrate carrier, an aligning roller having a surface that is rubbing fabric, a driving mechanism that drives the substrate carrier and the substrate that is to be subjected to alignment treatment carried thereby to undergo a translational movement, and an elevation arm. The lower surface of the aligning roller is made suitable to contact and rub the upper surface of the substrate that is to be subjected to alignment treatment and side edges of the upper surface of the substrate that is to be subjected to alignment treatment are made suitable to scrape the lower surface of the aligning roller. The substrate carrier is provided in a top thereof with channels corresponding to two opposite side edges of the substrate that is to be subjected to alignment treatment in the translational movement direction. The channels are arranged to be suitable to have the two side edges of the substrate that is to be subjected to alignment treatment respectively suspending in the channels. The present invention also provides a rubbing method. The rubbing device and the rubbing method of the present invention use a substrate that is to be subjected to alignment treatment to scrape PI chips from the aligning roller into channels so as to prevent the PI chips from moving with the aligning roller to spread over an AA zone of the substrate that is to be subjected to alignment treatment, thereby improving the defects of bright spots and mura generated in a rubbing process. |
| US09268171B2 |
Projection device
A light guide plate receives light, which is emitted from a light source, and emits the light from a light emitting surface. A prism sheet reflects light at a predetermined angle among the light emitted from the light emitting surface, allows the reflected light to enter the light guide plate, and transmits light at another angle thereamong. Between a ¼ wavelength plate and a reflection-type liquid crystal display element, a polarization control element is provided in parallel to the light emitting surface. The polarization control element splits the light, which is emitted from the ¼ wavelength plate, into first polarized light allowed to transmit as illumination light that enters the reflection-type liquid crystal display element and second polarized light reflected so as to enter the light guide plate 3, and reflects the light modulated and emitted by the reflection-type liquid crystal display element. |
| US09268170B2 |
Array substrate and method of manufacturing the same
An array substrate includes; a substrate, a gate line and a data line disposed on the substrate, a thin film transistor (“TFT”) electrically connected to the gate line and the data line, a light blocking member disposed on the substrate and a first color filter and a second color filter disposed on the substrate. The light blocking member covers a portion of the first color filter and the second color filter covers a portion of the light blocking member. |
| US09268169B2 |
Display panel with pixel define layer, manufacturing method of pixel define layer of display panel, and display device
Embodiments of the invention provide a display panel with a pixel define layer, a manufacturing method of a pixel define layer of a display panel, and a display device. The display panel with the pixel define layer comprises: a substrate and the pixel define layer disposed on the substrate. The pixel define layer includes a photosensitive resin layer and a transparent define layer sequentially disposed on the substrate. The photosensitive resin layer has an opening in a region corresponding to each pixel region of the display panel, the transparent define layer has an opening in the region corresponding to each pixel region of the display panel, and the opening of the transparent define layer is smaller than the opening of the photosensitive resin layer so as to form a fill region with a wide lower portion and a narrow upper portion. |
| US09268167B2 |
Liquid crystal display panel
A liquid crystal display (LCD) panel includes an active device array substrate, an opposite substrate, a sealant, a liquid crystal layer, a black matrix, and a plurality of rough structures. The active device array substrate has a display area and a peripheral area surrounding the display area, and the liquid crystal layer and the peripheral area are surrounded by the sealant. The black matrix is disposed between the active device array substrate and the opposite substrate and distributed corresponding to the display area and the peripheral area. The rough structures are disposed on a portion of the black matrix and distributed corresponding to the peripheral area. Surface roughness of the rough structures is greater than surface roughness of the black matrix distributed corresponding to the display area. |
| US09268166B2 |
NVIS campatible backlight device and LCD using the same
A backlight device for a liquid crystal display containing a substantially planar light guide with a light emission surface and a light-collecting portion opposing the light emission surface. A pair of opposing side portions may define the periphery of the light guide. A first plurality of LEDs are placed so as to direct the emitted light into the light-collecting portion. An NVIS filter is preferably placed adjacent to at least one of the side portions. A second plurality of LEDs are placed to direct the emitted light through the NVIS filter and into a side portion of the light guide. Alternative embodiments can contain NVIS filters and LEDs along additional edge portions of the light guide. Some embodiments may use directing elements or slanted surfaces of the light guide to direct the light from the second plurality of LEDs into the edge portions of the light guide. |
| US09268163B2 |
Flexible display device
A flexible display device includes a flexible display panel including a display unit; and a deformation member located on the flexible display panel. The deformation member is deformed due to external light that is incident on the flexible display device, and thus the flexible display device is deformed, thereby allowing the external light to be blocked. |
| US09268162B2 |
Electronic device having a plastic substrate
A method of manufacturing a thin-film electronic device includes applying a plastic coating to a rigid carrier substrate for forming a plastic substrate. The plastic material has a coefficient of thermal expansion greater in a first direction perpendicular to the substrate plane than in a second direction parallel to the substrate plane. Thin film electronic elements are formed over the plastic substrate and the rigid carrier substrate is released from the plastic substrate by a heating process which expands the plastic substrate preferentially in a direction perpendicular to the substrate plane. |
| US09268159B2 |
Low focal shift kW class optical isolator
A kW Class optical isolator employs negative feedback to yield low focal shift over dynamically changing power levels. The isolator is useful as a kW fiber laser output isolator. |
| US09268156B1 |
Sunglasses and method of forming the same
The present invention generally relates to hand made sunglasses, and more particularly to a method and system for making sunglasses from recycled materials, e.g., skateboards. |
| US09268152B2 |
Strap assembly adapted for use to secure eyewear to wearer
A strap assembly includes a first elastic strap, a second elastic strap, a first piece of hook material and a second piece of hook material. The first elastic strap includes a first end and a second end, and a first side and a second side. The first elastic strap further includes a piece of loop material attached to the first side of the first end and another piece of loop material attached to the second side of the second end. The second elastic strap includes a first end and a second end, and a first side and a second side. The second elastic strap further includes a piece of loop material attached to the first side of the first end and a piece of hook material attached to the first side of the second end. The first piece of hook material and second piece of hook material preferably attach to opposite temporal regions of eyewear. |
| US09268151B2 |
Apparatus for the generation of extremely short-wavelength, ultra-short duration light pulses
Extremely ultrashort and short-wave light pulses are generated with the aid of the traveling-wave Thomson scattering process. Dispersive elements are arranged between an electron, particle, or radiation source, which is synchronized with a laser system, and an optical element that focuses in a direction. The device is used to superpose a pulse-front tilted light pulse of high power with an ultrashort pulse of relativistic electrons in a laser-line focus. By varying the laser pulse-front tilt, narrow-band radiation pulses in a wide wavelength range from EUV to X-ray wavelengths and having a high number of protons are obtained, and the bandwidth and coherence properties can also be modified. The system can be used, among other things, in EUV lithography, in the planning and optimal design of laser systems and electron sources, in material analysis by phase contrast imaging, and in superconductor research. The assembly is smaller and cheaper than current comparables. |
| US09268149B2 |
Optical filter
Provided is an optical filter and a display device. In the optical filter, patterns of first and second regions therein may be stably maintained, and therefore the optical filter capable of ensuring excellent light division characteristics for a long time may be provided. |
| US09268147B2 |
Autostereoscopic display device and autostereoscopic display method using the same
An autostereoscopic display method includes providing a plurality of projectors. Each of the projectors is configured for providing a lamp image unit, each of which has a plurality of lamp images actuated in sequence. The lamp images respectively project to different directions to form a projection angle therebetween. The lamp image units are projected onto a screen. The lamp image units are projected to a first lens array of the screen for respectively guiding the lamp image units to an image plane of the screen, such that the lamp image units are adjacent to each other and connected end to end on the image plane. At least two adjacent lamp image units are guided to the same second lenticular lens of a second lens array of the screen for enlarging and combining the projection angles and projecting the lamp image units to an observing surface. |
| US09268145B2 |
Image display system and three-dimensional eyeglasses
Provided is an image display system which can assuredly perform collaborative processing such as determination of a fatigue state of a viewer using three-dimensional eyeglasses and an image display apparatus, without increasing system scale, the image display system including: a transmitting and receiving unit included in a three-dimensional display TV which transmits to three-dimensional eyeglasses a specification-designating signal designating a specification which at least includes a data format for a communication signal; a transmitting and receiving unit included in the three-dimensional eyeglasses which receives the specification-designating signal transmitted from the three-dimensional display TV and, according to the specification designated by the received specification-designating signal, converts a biometric signal acquired by a biometric signal sensor into the communication signal, and transmits the communication signal to the three-dimensional display TV. |
| US09268144B2 |
Method for producing a mirror plate for Fabry-Perot interferometer, and a mirror plate produced by the method
A method for producing a mirror plate for a Fabry-Perot interferometer includes providing a base slab, which includes a substrate coated with a reflective multilayer coating, forming one or more intermediate layers on the base slab such that the lowermost intermediate layer substantially consists of silica, and such that the multilayer coating is at least partially covered by the lowermost intermediate layer, forming one or more capacitive sensor electrodes by depositing conductive material on top of the intermediate layers, and removing material of the lowermost intermediate layer by etching in order to form an exposed aperture portion of the multilayer coating. |
| US09268141B2 |
Desktop electronic magnifier
A desktop electronic magnifier in a first embodiment includes a monitor and a control panel mounted to the monitor so that access to the control panel cannot be blocked by any position of the monitor. In a second embodiment, a monitor is positioned atop a flat platform that surmounts the camera so that access to the control panel cannot be blocked by any position of the monitor. In a third embodiment, the control panel is mounted to the camera and the monitor is supported by a support surface independent of the magnifier. Access to the control panel is blocked only if the user positions the monitor in blocking relation to the control panel. |
| US09268133B2 |
Optical scanning apparatus and scanning microscope apparatus
Provided is an optical scanning apparatus including: a deflector capable of deflecting an entering beam while switching an advancing direction thereof among a plurality of direction at a predetermined switching timing; a mirror array including a plurality of angle setting mirrors that are placed at angles different from one another on respective optical paths of the beams deflected by the deflector, each of the angle setting mirrors reflecting the beam while giving thereto a relative angle on the same plane for each optical path, and gathering the beam on the same point; and a first scanner that is provided so as to be swingable about an axial line perpendicular to the plane in synchronization with the switching timing, the first scanner reflecting each beam that is caused by the mirror array to enter the same point from a different direction and applying for scanning the beam along the same trajectory. |
| US09268132B2 |
Optical scanning device
An optical scanning device includes a mirror part including a mirror reflecting surface to reflect incident light, a pair of torsion bars configured to support the mirror part from both sides and configured to form a first axis around which to swing the mirror part by a torsional motion thereof so as to deflect the reflected light, and at least one stress alleviation area configured to alleviate a stress generated by the torsional motion of the torsion bars. The alleviation area is provided between an intersection of a second axis perpendicular to the first axis and passing through the center of the mirror reflecting surface and an edge of the mirror reflecting surface, and at least one of the torsion bars. |
| US09268130B2 |
Micromechanical component and method for producing a micromechanical component
A micromechanical component is described as having a mounting support, an actuator plate having a coil, situated on and/or in the actuator plate, which is connected to the mounting support via at least one supply line spring. A mirror element and/or filter element is connected to the mounting support via the actuator plate and the at least one supply line spring. A spacer has a first end that contacts an inner side of the mirror element and/or the filter element that is directed away from an incident light surface of the mirror element and/or the filter element. The spacer has a second end that contacts a carrier side of the actuator plate that is aligned towards the mirror element and/or the filter element. Also described is a method for producing a micromechanical component. |
| US09268124B2 |
Microscope and method for characterizing structures on an object
A microscope includes an illumination unit for illuminating a mask at a predetermined non-axial illumination angle, an imaging unit for imaging an aerial image of the mask within a predetermined defocus region, and an imaging field stop, in which as a result of the lateral displacement of the aerial image depending on the position within the defocus region and on the non-axial illumination angle, the opening of the imaging field stop is dimensioned such that the aerial image is either completely encompassed or circumferentially cut within the defocus region.A method for characterizing a mask having a structure includes illuminating the mask at at least one illumination angle using monochromatic illumination radiation such that a diffraction image of the structure is created, recording the diffraction image, establishing the intensities of the maxima of the adjacent orders of diffraction, and establishing an intensity ratio of the intensities. |
| US09268121B2 |
Sensor device with double telecentric optical system
A sensor device and a method for a double telecentric optical system includes a single focusing element, such as a lens. The device and method further include a mirror element arranged at a focal point of the single focusing element to reflect incoming light rays back to the single focusing element. The incoming and reflected light rays pass through different parts of the single focusing element to allow for a spatially separated arrangement of an object and its image. |
| US09268119B2 |
Zoom lens and image pickup apparatus including the same
A zoom lens including a plurality of lens units, and two variable stops having an aperture diameter changing for zooming, the lens units being configured to change intervals between the respective neighboring lens units for zooming, the zoom lens having an F-number which is constant over an entire zoom range, the two variable stops including a first variable stop disposed on an object side, and a second variable stop disposed on an image side. A distance (Sw1) from the first variable stop to an image plane at a wide-angle end, a distance (Sw2) from the second variable stop to the image plane at the wide-angle end, and a distance (Tkw) from an exit pupil position to the image plane at the wide-angle end are each set appropriately. |
| US09268118B2 |
Zoom lens and image-pickup apparatus
A zoom lens includes, in order from an object side to an image side, a first, a second, a third, a fourth, a fifth, a sixth and a seventh lens units respectively having positive, negative, positive, negative, positive, negative and positive refractive powers. A distance between adjacent lens units change during zooming so that a distance between the fourth lens unit and the fifth lens unit at a telephoto end is shorter than the distance at a wide angle end and a distance between the fifth lens unit and the sixth lens unit at the telephoto end is longer than the distance at the wide angle end. And the fourth lens unit moves during focusing. |
| US09268115B2 |
Imaging lens
To provide a high image-quality, low cost, and small sized imaging lens suitable for an imaging lens which is compact and which has high density pixels, and with aberrations corrected satisfactorily. An imaging lens is configured from a first lens, a second lens, a third lens, and a fourth lens arranged in the named order from an object side, wherein both surfaces of each lens are formed from aspheric surface, and a diffraction optics surface exerting chromatic aberration correction function is arranged on any one surface from a surface of the first lens on an object side to a surface of the third lens on the object side, and each lens is configured from plastic material. |
| US09268113B2 |
Scanning lens and method for manufacturing scanning lens
A scanning lens molded of resin includes: a lens portion having an elongate shape extending in a main scanning direction and having an optical surface; a slant portion having at least one slant surface slanting relative to the main scanning direction; and an ejector pin mark formed on the slant surface when thrusting out the scanning lens by ejector pins. The ejector pin mark is formed along a slanting direction of the slant surface. |
| US09268112B2 |
Lens barrel
A lens barrel of the disclosure includes: a first frame which has a lens and an adhesive reservoir which is provided at a position projecting from the lens in a radial direction of the lens with an indentation formed between the lens and the adhesive reservoir, the first frame holding the lens by injection of an adhesive into the adhesive reservoir; and a second frame which is movable relative to the first frame in an optical axis direction of the lens, the second frame having a through hole formed at a place corresponding to the adhesive reservoir as viewed in the optical axis direction. |
| US09268109B2 |
Lens barrel and optical apparatus
Provided is a lens barrel capable of providing good operational feeling, the lens barrel including: a first barrel in which a cam groove having a shape curved with respect to a predetermined axis direction is formed to pierce through the first barrel; a second barrel capable of rotating around the predetermined axis along an outer circumferential surface of the first barrel, a straight groove extending in the predetermined axis direction being formed in the second barrel; a moving member that has a cam pin moving along the cam groove and the straight groove and moves in the predetermined axis direction while holding a lens inside the first barrel as the second barrel rotates with respect to the first barrel; and a damping mechanism that applies damping force depending on an angle of the cam groove to the predetermined axis direction to the second barrel. |
| US09268108B2 |
Lens barrel capable of suppressing variation of attitude of optical element and image pickup apparatus using the same
A lens barrel enables to improve the optical performance thereof while realizing size reduction, structure simplification, and cost reduction in the lens barrel. A second group holding frame 21, in a collapsed state, is rotated with respect to the second group base plate 22 in a direction retracting from the optical axis A, and in a photographing state, is rotated toward the optical axis A. A compression spring 23 regulates an optical axis A direction position of the second group holding frame 21 with respect to the second group base plate 22 by urging, in the optical axis A direction, a portion of the second group holding frame 21. An engaging pin 22d and an engaging groove 21e, in the photographing state, regulate the optical axis A direction position of the second group holding frame 21 with respect to the second group base plate 22. |
| US09268106B2 |
Optical fiber securing device
An optical fiber securing device may include a passage, an epoxy well, an epoxy path, an optical fiber seat, and a protrusion. The passage may have an entrance and an exit, the passage configured to receive therein an optical fiber inserted through the entrance. The epoxy well may be configured to receive therein epoxy. The epoxy path may provide a pathway for epoxy between the epoxy well and the passage. The optical fiber seat may be configured to receive at least a portion of the optical fiber, the optical fiber seat configured to position an end of the optical fiber in optical alignment with a lens. The protrusion may define an upper boundary of the passage at the exit of the passage, the protrusion configured to restrain epoxy received within the passage such that the epoxy does not become interposed between the end of the optical fiber and the lens. |
| US09268105B2 |
Optical connector
An optical connector includes a printed circuit board, at least one emitter, at least one receiver, a coupler, and a number of positioning poles. The printed circuit board includes an assembling surface defining a number of first positioning recesses therein. The emitter and the receiver are electrically connected to the assembling surface of the printed circuit board. The coupler includes a bottom surface facing toward to the printed circuit board and at least two first lenses corresponding to the emitter and the receiver. The coupler defining a number of second positioning recesses in the bottom surface corresponding to the first positioning recesses. The positioning poles are positioned between the printed circuit board and the coupler, with one end of each positioning pole inserting and being fixed into a first positioning recess and the other end of each positioning pole inserting and being fixed into a second positioning recess. |
| US09268099B2 |
Optical connector
An optical connector includes a first engaging member holding at least one first optical fiber to guide light from a light source, a second engaging member holding a second optical fiber to be optically connected to the first optical fiber, and configured to be engaged with the first engaging member, and a light shield member provided near an emission end of the first optical fiber, at such a position as to shield light from the first optical fiber at disengagement of the engaging members. The light shield member is pushed by the second engaging member at engagement of the engaging members, so as to be folded and evacuated in a gap. The light shield member includes a light absorption member to absorb light and to generate heat, a thermal diffusion member to diffuse and radiate the heat, and a base supporting the light absorption member and thermal diffusion member. |
| US09268098B2 |
Fiber bragg grating interrogator assembly and method for the same
A fiber Bragg grating interrogator assembly is described. Examples of the fiber Bragg grating interrogator assembly include an optical fiber including a fiber Bragg grating having a variable Bragg wavelength (λB) and a dynamic range of interest (Δλdyn,B) over which the Bragg wavelength (λB) can shift during use. The fiber Bragg grating interrogator assembly also includes a response analyzer having a spectrally selective device with an input port to which the optical fiber is operably connected, and a plurality of output ports of which each output port is associated with a respective spectral range (Δλn). The spectral ranges (Δλn, Δλn+1, Δλn+2) of each at least three successive output ports partially overlap, such that the FBG's Bragg wavelength (λB) falls inside the spectral ranges (Δλn, Δλn+1, Δλn+2) of at least three successive output ports over the dynamic range of interest (Δλdyn,B) of the FBG. |
| US09268096B1 |
Method and system for optically coupling a waveguide and a fiber
An optical system includes a substrate and a first waveguide embedded on the substrate. The first waveguide has a first end. The optical system also includes an optical fiber optically coupled to the first waveguide and bounded to the substrate. The optical fiber has a first end with a flat portion forming a D-shaped cross section. The flat portion of the first end of the optical fiber is disposed adjacent to the first end of the first waveguide, thereby facilitating optical coupling between the first waveguide and the optical fiber. |
| US09268092B1 |
Guided wave opto-acoustic device
The various technologies presented herein relate to various hybrid phononic-photonic waveguide structures that can exhibit nonlinear behavior associated with traveling-wave forward stimulated Brillouin scattering (forward-SBS). The various structures can simultaneously guide photons and phonons in a suspended membrane. By utilizing a suspended membrane, a substrate pathway can be eliminated for loss of phonons that suppresses SBS in conventional silicon-on-insulator (SOI) waveguides. Consequently, forward-SBS nonlinear susceptibilities are achievable at about 3000 times greater than achievable with a conventional waveguide system. Owing to the strong phonon-photon coupling achievable with the various embodiments, potential application for the various embodiments presented herein cover a range of radiofrequency (RF) and photonic signal processing applications. Further, the various embodiments presented herein are applicable to applications operating over a wide bandwidth, e.g. 100 MHz to 50 GHz or more. |
| US09268089B2 |
Layer having a non-linear taper and method of fabrication
A method for forming a non-linear thickness-profile in a first layer of a first material is disclosed. The method comprises forming an accelerator layer of a second material on the first layer and forming a mask layer disposed on the accelerator layer, wherein the mask layer enables the accelerator layer to expose the first layer to a first etchant in a first region, where the exposure time for each point along a first axis varies non-linearly as a function of distance from a first point on the first axis. Since the time for which the first layer is exposed to the first etch in the first region is non-linear, the thickness of the first layer in the first region changes non-linearly along the first axis. |
| US09268085B2 |
Liquid crystal display device
A liquid crystal display device including a liquid crystal panel in a display area and a non-display area; a plurality of optical sheets under the liquid crystal panel; a light guide plate under the optical sheets; a light source configured to apply light to the light guide plate; and a support main connected to the liquid crystal panel, the optical sheets and the light guide plate and including a first support guide in back of the liquid crystal panel; a second support guide in back of the optical sheets and extending from a side surface of the first support guide; and a third support guide extending from a side surface of the second support guide. An inside portion of the third support guide is narrower than an outside portion of the third support guide. |
| US09268082B2 |
Free form lighting module
The invention provides an illumination device (1) comprising (a) a waveguide element (20) comprising a first face (21), a second face (22), and a waveguide edge (23), and (b) a LED light source (10), arranged to generate light source light (17), with optional collimating optics (11). The LED light source (10) with optional collimating optics (11) is arranged to couple at least part of the light source light (17) into the waveguide element (20) via the waveguide edge (23) of the waveguide element (20). The first face (21) comprises structures (51) arranged to couple at least part of the light out of the waveguide element (20) via the second face (22) to provide second face light (37). The illumination device (1) further comprises a cavity (80), arranged to allow light to escape from the waveguide element (20) into the cavity (80), and a reflector (81), arranged to reflect at least part of the light in the cavity (80) in a direction away from the second face (22) to provide first face light (47). Such an illumination device may allow lighting a room, for instance via the ceiling with uplight, and lighting a specific area in the room with downlight. Further, a relatively thin illumination device may be provided, which may for instance suspend from a ceiling. |
| US09268079B2 |
Candle light LED light bulbs
A light bulb includes a light emitting device at the base of the bulb and a light guide (320) that guides the emitted light to a diffusion element (330) above the base of the bulb. The diffusion element is configured to diffuse the light so as to emulate the predominantly radial light distribution pattern produced by a candle. A variety of features for the diffusion element, as well as features of the base and bulb, are presented that enhance the candle-like effects. |
| US09268075B1 |
Method of manufacturing wire grid polarizer
Provided is a method of manufacturing a wire gird polarizer. The method includes sequentially stacking a conductive wire layer and a first neutral layer, forming guide patterns, reducing widths of the guide patterns and patterning the first neutral layer, forming a second neutral layer, applying a first block copolymer, arranging the first block copolymer as a first monomer block and a second monomer block, removing one of the first monomer block and the second monomer block, removing the second neutral layer exposed, removing the remaining monomer block and the guide patterns, applying a second block copolymer, arranging the second block copolymer as a third monomer block and a fourth monomer block, removing one of the third monomer block and the fourth monomer block, and patterning the conductive wire layer to thereby form conductive wire patterns. |
| US09268070B2 |
Security element having a color-effect-producing structure
A security element for an object of value has a flat, transparent body with a front side and a back side between which there lies a center plane, a first region configured on the body and a second region configured on the body which encode a motif. The body has in the first region a ground element structure which conveys different color impressions from front and back sides in plan view of the body. The body likewise has the ground element structure in the second region and is in mirrored form relative to the center plane, causing first and second regions to show the motif from both sides in plan view, and the motif to be unrecognizable in transmission view. |
| US09268064B2 |
Amphiphilic siloxane-containing (meth)acrylamides and uses thereof
The invention provides an amphiphilic siloxane-containing (meth)acrylamide which comprises one sole (meth)acrylamido group, one sole tris(trimethylsiloxy)silyl group, and one polyethylene glycol segment which is either dangling polymer chain or a hydrophilic linker between the (meth)acrylamido group and the tris(trimethylsiloxy)silyl group. The present invention is also related to a polymer, an actinically-crosslinkable silicone-containing prepolymer, a silicone hydrogel polymeric material, or a silicone hydrogel contact lens, which comprises monomeric units derived from an amphiphilic siloxane-containing (meth)acrylamido group, one tris(trimethylsiloxy)silyl group of the invention. In addition, the invention provides a method for making silicone hydrogel contact lenses using a water-based lens-forming formulation comprising an amphiphilic siloxane-containing (meth)acrylamido group, one tris(trimethylsiloxy)silyl group of the invention and/or an actinically-crosslinkable silicone -containing prepolymer of the invention. |
| US09268063B2 |
Colored radiation-sensitive composition, colored cured film, color filter, colored pattern forming method, color filter production method, solid-state image sensor, and image display device
Colored radiation-sensitive composition includes (A) a dye multimer, (B) an alkali-soluble resin containing at least one kind of repeating unit selected from a group consisting of a repeating unit represented by the following Formula (b1) and a repeating unit represented by the following Formula (b2), (C) a polymerizable compound, and (D) a photopolymerization initiator. In the formulae, each of R1 and R4 independently represents a hydrogen atom, an aryl group, or an alkyl group, and among these, an aryl group is preferable. R2 represents a hydrogen atom or a methyl group, R3 represents an alkylene group having 2 or 3 carbon atoms, and m represents an integer from 1 to 15. |
| US09268062B2 |
Artificial electromagnetic material
An artificial electromagnetic material is provided. The artificial electromagnetic material includes at least one material sheet. Each material sheet includes a laminary substrate and a plurality of artificial microstructures attached to the substrate. The substrate is made from transparent material. Because the substrate is made from transparent material, therefore the artificial electromagnetic material is capable of generating responses to visible light wave and convergence, divergence, deflection of visible light wave and so on can be achieved. |
| US09268059B2 |
Downhole sensor tool for logging measurements
A downhole measurement apparatus includes a tool body supporting a logging tool. The logging tool includes a detector outsert coupled into and exposed through an exterior pocket of the tool body to position the outer surface of the outsert adjacent or in close proximity to the outer diameter of the tool body. A stabilizer or off-center stabilizer may be provided to further deflect the outsert portion of the logging tool toward an earth formation to increase detector proximity to the formation. Radial and axial distances can be calibrated and maintained across multiple different tool collars. |
| US09268056B2 |
Neutron porosity based on one or more gamma ray detectors and a pulsed neutron source
A method for pulsed neutron well logging of a subsurface formation, includes irradiating the formation with a plurality of bursts of neutrons of a group of selected durations; detecting gamma rays resulting from interaction of the neutrons during a group of selected time gates which contains at least some early and late gamma ray counts. The gamma rays are detected at at least two axially spaced apart locations from a position of the irradiating. A weighted sum of the numbers of gamma rays detected in each of the time gates is calculated. A ratio of the weighted sum of detected gamma rays at a first axial spacing to the weighted sum at a second axial spacing is determined. The ratio is used to determine a hydrogen index of the subsurface formation. |
| US09268055B2 |
Well-logging apparatus including azimuthally spaced radiation detectors
A well-logging device may include a housing to be positioned within a larger borehole of a subterranean formation and thereby define a stand-off distance with respect to the larger borehole. The well-logging device may also include at least one radiation source carried by the housing to direct radiation into the subterranean formation, and radiation detectors carried by the housing in azimuthally spaced relation to detect radiation from the subterranean formation. The well-logging device may further include a controller to cooperate with the radiation detectors to determine at least one property of the subterranean formation corrected for the stand-off distance. |
| US09268054B2 |
Synchronized robotic baggage portal for secure access
Systems and methods describe automated/robotic baggage portals as well as their use when synchronized with automated/robotic human security portals. When companion human and baggage portals are synchronized, baggage items belonging to a subject are not passed through to a secure area unless the subject is cleared by a companion human portal for passage. Likewise, unless the subject is cleared for passage by the human portal, baggage items belonging to the subject are not passed through to a secure area unless the subject is cleared by the companion human portal. Variations on synchronization, tracking, and coordination mechanisms and methods are described as well as variations on baggage portal mechanisms including conveyer arrangements and baggage chamber configurations. |
| US09268044B2 |
Neutron spectrometer
A neutron spectrometer is described. The spectrometer includes a first conversion screen (8) comprising a neutron absorbing material and a phosphor material, a first wavelength-shifting light-guide (14) arranged to receive photons from the phosphor material of the first conversion screen and generate wavelength-shifted photons therefrom and a first photodetector (22) optically coupled to the first wavelength-shifting light-guide and arranged to detect the wave-length-shifted photons. The spectrometer further includes a second conversion screen (12) comprising a neutron absorbing material and a phosphor material, a second wavelength-shifting light-guide (16) arranged to receive photons from the phosphor material of the second conversion screen and generate wavelength-shifted photons there-from, and a second photodetector (24) optically coupled to the second wavelength-shifting light-guide and arranged to detect the wave-length-shifted photons. A neutron moderator material is arranged between the first and second conversion screens to moderate neutrons. |
| US09268042B2 |
Characterizing radiotherapy beams based on image detection array data
A method for determining parameters of a beam. As a part of the disclosed method, a beam is received at an image detection array where charges are generated and collected, at a plurality of pixels. Values associated with at least one of a plurality of parameters of the beam are determined by integrating information supplied from each of the pixels. Feedback is generated that presents the values. |
| US09268040B2 |
Method for processing a signal from a phoswich scintillator, and associated scintillation detector
A method for processing electrical signals from a phoswich scintillator including an upstream scintillator and a downstream scintillator, the method including, for each electrical signal: digitization of the electrical signal; determination of an amplitude and an integral surface area of the digitized electrical signal; and representation of an event associated with an electrical signal by a pair of data items. |
| US09268032B2 |
Electrical radiography imaging system and method thereof
A sensing element for electromagnetic wave detection, electrical radiography imaging system applying the element and method thereof is provided. The sensing element may include a substrate, an active component on the substrate, a plurality of first electrodes on the substrate, a plurality of second electrodes on the substrate, a first blocking layer, a photo-conversion layer on the first blocking layer, and a third electrode on the photo-conversion layer. The plurality of first electrodes is coupled together. The plurality of first electrodes is interlaced with the plurality of second electrodes and is coupled together. The first blocking layer is on the active component, the plurality of first electrodes, and the plurality of second electrodes. The photo-conversion layer is for absorbing electromagnetic wave transmitted through an object being imaged by a radiography imaging system and generates electric charges collected by the plurality of first and second electrodes, and the third electrodes. |
| US09268029B2 |
Efficient method for radiochromic film dosimetry
The present invention provides a method for measuring a two-dimensional distribution of ionizing radiation doses with high spatial resolution. The method comprises exposing radiation sensitive film to a pattern of ionizing radiation to form a measurement film, exposing areas of radiation sensitive film to a plurality of known doses of the ionizing radiation to form a calibration film(s), scanning all the exposed films together with an unexposed radiation sensitive film at a single time to produce a digital image, measuring those areas of the digital image corresponding to the unexposed film and the calibration film(s) exposed to different known doses, associating the measured responses in the areas to the known doses and using the association to convert the values in the scanned image corresponding to the measurement film from scanner response values to dose values. In a preferred embodiment, all of the radiation sensitive films are the same type of film. |
| US09268026B2 |
Method and apparatus for location positioning in electronic device
A positioning method and apparatus of an electronic device which comprises a Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) or Global Positioning System (GPS), and an Inertial Navigation System (INS), includes receiving a satellite signal through the GNSS. A location of the electronic device and a reliability of location information of the electronic device is determined based on the satellite signal provided by the GNSS using at least one of satellite information of the satellite signal and location information based on the determined location of the electronic device. An operational level of the INS is determined using the reliability of the location information of the electronic device; and compensating the location of the electronic device by operating the INS according to the determined operational level of the INS. |
| US09268025B2 |
Fast transform based offset determination
An offset estimator (e.g., a time delay, a spatial image offset, etc.) makes use of a transform approach (e.g., using Fast Fourier Transforms). The sparse nature of a cross-correlation is exploited by limiting the computation required in either or both of the forward and inverse transforms. For example, only a subset of the transform values (e.g., a regular subsampling of the values) is used. In some examples, an inverse transform yields a time aliased version of the cross-correlation. Further processing then identifies the most likely offset of the original signals by considering offsets that are consistent with the aliased output. |
| US09268020B2 |
Sonar assembly for reduced interference
A sonar transducer assembly includes a housing mountable to a water craft capable of traversing a surface of a body of water. The sonar transducer assembly includes a linear downscan transmit/receive transducer element positioned within the housing, aimed downwardly, and configured to transmit sonar pulses in the form of a fan-shaped beam perpendicular to a plane of the surface of the water, and further configured to receive sonar returns from the sonar pulses and convert sound energy of the sonar returns into downscan sonar return data. The sonar transducer assembly also includes at least one sidescan receive-only transducer element positioned within the housing, aimed outwardly and downwardly, and configured to receive sonar returns from the sonar pulses and convert sound energy of the sonar returns into sidescan sonar return data. |
| US09268017B2 |
Near-field millimeter wave imaging
Systems and method for near-field millimeter wave imaging are provided, in particular, near-field millimeter wave imaging systems and methods that enable sub-wavelength resolution imaging by scanning objects with sub-wavelength probe elements and capturing and measuring phase and intensity of reflected energy to generate images. |
| US09268016B2 |
Metamaterial devices and methods of using the same
Compressive imaging captures images in compressed form, where each sensor does not directly correspond with a pixel, as opposed to standard image capture techniques. This can lead to faster image capture rates due to lower I/O bandwidth requirements, and avoids the need for image compression hardware, as the image is captured in compressed form. Measuring the transformation of an emitted multimodal signal is one method of compressive imaging. Metamaterial antennas and transceivers are well suited for both emitting and receiving multimodal signals, and are thus prime candidates for compressive imaging. |
| US09268014B2 |
Transmissive imaging and related apparatus and methods
Apparatus and methods are described that include ultrasound imaging devices, which may operate in a transmissive ultrasound imaging modality, and which may be used to detect properties of interest of a subject such as index of refraction, density and/or speed of sound. Devices suitable for performing high intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU), as well as HIFU and ultrasound imaging, are also described. |
| US09268012B2 |
2-D planar VCSEL source for 3-D imaging
An apparatus and a method are provided for 3-D imaging and scanning using a 2-D planar VCSELs source configured as a lightfiled optical source. VCSELs are configured in different 2-D spatial arrangements including single VCSEL, or preferably a group, cluster, or array each to be operated effectively as an independent VCSEL array source. A set of microlens and an imaging lens positioned at a pre-determined distance collimates radiation from each VCSEL array source to a set of parallel beams. The parallel beams from different VCSEL array sources generated in a rapid pre-determined timing sequence provide scanning beams to illuminate an object. The radiation reflected from the object is analyzed for arrival time, pulse shape, and intensity to determine a comprehensive set of distance and intensity profile of the object to compute a 3-D image. |
| US09268008B1 |
Detection of low observable objects in clutter using non-coherent radars
A method and an apparatus for detection and tracking of one or more objects in land clutter, including strong clutter and low observable (LO) objects such as a humans, animals, vehicles, and small, low-flying aircraft using a non-coherent radar or the amplitude output of a coherent radar. The preferred embodiment of the method and apparatus uses an X-band, maritime, non-coherent radar and the Doppler spectra computed from the high-frequency amplitude modulations produced by the object interacting with the land-based clutter to determine the presence, velocity, and track of the object. |
| US09268007B2 |
Mobile communication and localization device
A mobile communication and localization device cooperating with a plurality of mobile network devices includes a processing unit; a data structure containing a plurality of entries, each entry containing information about a corresponding mobile network device and a corresponding time stamp; a unit for sending data packets at respective transmission instants, each data packet containing position data indicating the position of corresponding mobile network devices; a unit for receiving data packets sent by sender mobile devices belonging to the plurality of mobile network devices; and a unit for determining the relative position of corresponding mobile network devices based on position data contained in the data packets. |
| US09268005B2 |
Image recording system with relational tracking
A relational tracking and recording method and apparatus can include: transmitting a signal from a beacon; detecting the signal with a first antenna and with a second antenna, the first antenna coupled to a tracking and recording element; determining a time of flight for the signal between the beacon and the first antenna; calculating a distance between the beacon and the first antenna based on the time of flight; determining a horizontal angle of the beacon; determining a vertical angle of the beacon; positioning an image sensor to face toward the beacon based on the vertical angle and based on the horizontal angle; focusing optics in front of the image sensor based on the distance; zooming the optics in front of the image sensor based on the distance; and recording an image with the image sensor. |
| US09268003B2 |
System and method for measuring induced radio frequency current using phase contrast magnetic resonance imaging
A method for automatically measuring currents induced on conducting structures positioned in the bore of a magnetic resonance imaging (“MRI”) scanner using a single magnetic resonance image is provided. A conductive structure is positioned within the bore of the MRI scanner during imaging. When the MRI system is transmitting an RF field, a current is induced in the conductive structure. The current creates a magnetic field at the Larmor frequency, which couples to the RF magnetic field in the vicinity of the conductive structure. The modified magnetic field results in an artifact being generated in phase images. The artifact in the phase image is then analyzed to determine the current induced in the conductive structure. |
| US09268000B2 |
System and method for improved accuracy in battery resistance measurement systems
A method is disclosed for reducing an influence of voltage ripple on battery test measurements of battery cells coupled in series that form a direct current (DC) bus. A calibration operation is used to obtain a ratiometric difference between first and second series connected battery cells of the DC bus, which is indicative of a variance in their respective output voltages. Voltage measurements across each of the two cells may then be obtained at least substantially simultaneously. The ratiometric difference may be used to modify the voltage measurement taken across the second cell to produce a modified voltage measurement of the second cell. A difference between the measured voltage across the first battery cell and the modified voltage measurement may then be determined, which represents a filtered DC test voltage that has substantially all of the voltage ripple removed therefrom. |
| US09267998B2 |
Protective circuit for a rechargeable battery pack
A protective circuit for an arrangement which includes a plurality of individual cells in a rechargeable battery pack with a predefined number of individual cells being connected in series in a cell row and at least two cell rows being situated parallel to one another. The component current flowing in a first cell row when the rechargeable battery pack is subject to loading is compared with the component current flowing in a second cell row to generate a signal when there is an implausible deviation in the component currents with respect to one smother. The signal is used to disconnect a defective cell row or to switch off the entire rechargeable battery pack in order to protect the latter. |
| US09267996B2 |
Method and system for estimating voltage of a battery element
A method for estimating the voltage of a battery element of a battery system is provided. In one embodiment, the method comprises providing a balancing/sensing circuit having a series combination of a balancing switch and a balancing resistive element electrically connected in parallel with the battery element, and measuring the voltage across the balancing switch/balancing resistive element combination when the switch is presumed to be in a “closed” state.” The method further comprises deriving a compensated value for the measured voltage by applying a calculated compensation factor to the measured voltage, the compensated value compensating for a voltage drop occurring in the balancing/sensing circuit when the balancing switch is in the “closed” state and represents an estimate of the battery element voltage. A battery system is also provided that includes a battery element, a balancing/sensing circuit, a sensor, and a control module configured to perform the method described above. |
| US09267995B2 |
Methods and systems for determining whether a voltage measurement is usable for a state of charge estimation
Systems and methods for improvements in battery state of charge accuracy, charge termination consistency, capacity estimation, and energy delivery consistency. More specifically, embodiments herein detail systems and methods using an algorithm to calculate the change in state of charge for a given voltage change (dSOC/dV) at a given temperature in a region around the present voltage measurement or estimation and to set a signal indicating when the measurement should not be used due to potential error. |
| US09267994B2 |
Systems and methods for monitoring deterioration of a rechargeable battery
Systems and methods are provided for monitoring the deterioration of a rechargeable battery. A battery monitoring system may be used to store charging information, discharge information and storage information for a rechargeable battery to a data store. The charging information may include a number of charge cycles incurred by the rechargeable battery. The discharge information may include a number discharge cycles incurred by the rechargeable battery. The storage information may include information relating to periods when the rechargeable battery is not being actively charged or discharged. The battery monitoring system may be further used to determine an amount of deterioration of a battery performance characteristic based on the stored charging information, discharge information and storage information. |
| US09267993B2 |
Battery management system with distributed wireless sensors
A system for monitoring parameters of an energy storage system having a multiplicity of individual energy storage cells. A radio frequency identification and sensor unit is connected to each of the individual energy storage cells. The radio frequency identification and sensor unit operates to sense the parameter of each individual energy storage cell and provides radio frequency transmission of the parameters of each individual energy storage cell. A management system monitors the radio frequency transmissions from the radio frequency identification and sensor units for monitoring the parameters of the energy storage system. |
| US09267992B2 |
Switch failure diagnosis device and electric storage apparatus
A switch failure diagnosis device for using in a current path between an electric device and an electric storage device includes plural switches, a switch terminal voltage detector, and a controller. The switches are connected parallel to each other in the current path. The switch terminal voltage detector outputs a switch terminal voltage detection signal. The controller is configured to: select the switches at different time in sequence and input an open instruction signal to each switch at the time when the switch is selected; and determine, based on the switch terminal voltage detection signal output while the open instruction signal is given, that at least one of the switches has a failure if the detected voltage is in a failure determination range. |
| US09267988B2 |
On-chip eye diagram capture
An eye diagram capture device includes a delay line arranged to receive a digital signal and output time delayed version of the digital signal. An edge detection circuit is arranged to receive the digital signal and the time delayed version of the digital signal, the edge detection circuit operating to output a signal corresponding to a logical value of the digital signal received coincident with an edge of the time delay version of the digital signal. A voltage comparator is arranged to receive the digital signal and a reference voltage. The voltage comparator operates to output a first signal when the a voltage of the digital signal and the reference voltage are equal to each other. |
| US09267982B2 |
Processing apparatus and ion implantation apparatus
A processing apparatus includes an end station configured to support thereon a workpiece, an ion beam generator and a scanning device. The ion beam generator is configured to generate an ion beam toward the end station. The scanning device is configured to scan the ion beam in a transverse scanning direction. The scanning device is configured to be disposed in a first path of the ion beam toward the end station and out of a second path of the ion beam toward the end station. |
| US09267981B2 |
Equipment provided with one or more plug-in units
Equipment including at least one plug-in unit and a body device for receiving the plug-in unit is presented. The plug-in unit includes an electrically conductive structure (121, 122, 123) having at least one surface area capable of forming a capacitive coupling with a surface area of an electrically conductive part (130, 131) of the body device when the plug-in unit is inserted in the body device. The equipment further includes a monitoring circuit (124) for generating a signal indicative of electrical properties of a measurement circuit including the capacitive coupling and at least one galvanic contact provided by electrical connectors of the plug-in unit and the body device. The generated signal is also indicative of correctness of the installation of the plug-in unit. Thus, the correct installation of the plug-in unit can be electrically indicated and monitored. |
| US09267977B1 |
Method for maximizing the reflection factor of impedance tuners
An automatic microwave load pull slide screw tuner uses two RF probes, either independently movable or linked together, in order to generate high VSWR; precise alignment of two RF probes inside the same slabline is critical, since they must glide seamlessly inside the slabline slot, very closely to the center conductor over large horizontal displacements; a self-alignment mounting joint for the probes is described, which allows one or both of them to be mounted on the tuner's vertical axis held by a flexible steel blade, which allows sidewise movement and tilting and self-alignment of the probe, but also ensures unyielding movement in vertical and horizontal directions, as required for exact re-positioning of the probe during measurement. In case of double probes mounted on the same tuner axis the steel blade provides for a number of probe spacings, which allow the frequency range of the tuner to be switched for various applications. |
| US09267975B2 |
Fast response capacitive gauging system featuring steep slope filter discrimination circuit
The high speed, high accuracy capacitive gauging system employs an oscillator fed through steep slope filter that is discriminates between very small changes in capacitance even in the presence of electrical noise. During intervals when the probe tip is retracted, the oscillator frequency is calibrated to match the sweet spot in the center of the linear operative region of the steep slope filter. This calibrates the system to overcome the effects of varying temperature and humidity in the manufacturing environment. |
| US09267964B2 |
Electrochemically-grown nanowires and uses thereof
Nanowire apparatus and methods of using the same are disclosed. The apparatus include nanowires that are attached to and extend from varying substrates and can be used in the manipulation of cells and/or sensing of cellular and subcellular characteristics. The methods include using the apparatus to sense forces exerted by a single cell or using the apparatus to manipulate one or more cells. |
| US09267962B2 |
Scanning probe microscope comprising an isothermal actuator
A single-chip scanning probe microscope is disclosed, wherein the microscope includes an isothermal two-dimensional scanner and a cantilever that includes an integrated strain sensor and a probe tip. The scanner is operative for scanning a probe tip about a scanning region on a sample while the sensor measures tip-sample interaction forces. The scanner, cantilever, probe tip, and integrated sensor can be fabricated using the backend processes of a conventional CMOS fabrication process. In addition, the small size of the microscope system, as well as its isothermal operation, enable arrays of scanning probe microscopes to be integrated on a single substrate. |
| US09267961B2 |
Thermal convection-type accelerometer
A thermal convection-type accelerometer includes a first insulating substrate, a circuit formed on the first insulating substrate, a first acceleration-sensing device coupled with the circuit, and a first supporting layer attached on the insulating substrate. The first acceleration-sensing device includes two temperature-sensing components and a heater disposed between the temperature-sensing components. The temperature-sensing components and the heater are directly formed on the first supporting layer. |
| US09267959B2 |
Measurement of bladed rotors
Measurement of bladed rotors and, more particularly, speed measurement of bladed rotors in a turbine engine using microwave probes is described. In one embodiment, an apparatus for measuring bladed includes a microwave sensor that radiates a microwave signal toward a bladed rotor and receives a reflected microwave signal from the bladed rotor, a radio frequency module that generates the microwave signal radiated by the microwave sensor and down-converts the reflected microwave signal into a down-converted signal, and a main processing module configured to generate an output pulse train signal representative of a speed of the bladed rotor based on the down-converted signal. In another embodiment, a method for measuring bladed rotors is described including radiating a microwave signal, receiving a reflected microwave signal, down-converting the reflected microwave signal, and generating an output pulse train signal representative of a speed of a bladed rotor based on the down-converted signal. |
| US09267958B2 |
Thermally balanced differential accelerometer
A single sensing unit having two electrodes with a common thermal reference is positioned near the centroid of the inertial mass of a differential inductive accelerometer. As the mass is displaced a first sensor detects an increase in inductance while a second sensor detects a decrease in inductance. Significantly, the first and second sensors share a common thermal reference eliminating any thermal differential. As the sensor system is closely aligned with the centroid of the inertial mass the sensor system of the present invention reduces or eliminates any systemic error. |
| US09267956B2 |
Stimulated cell standards
Methods for producing stimulated, positive and negative control reference standard for monitoring intracellular cytokine levels and cytokine release in test samples by stimulating cells to produce cytokines in the presence of a cytokine release inhibitor, fixing the stimulated cells with a fixative such as paraformaldehyde, washing to remove excess fixatives and freeze-drying the stimulated, fixed cells. Methods for producing labeled reference standards for cell proliferation assays are also disclosed, in which proliferation-competent mammalian cells, isolated from a human or animal body are labeled with a label, such as a dye, that is divided between daughter cells during cell proliferation (e.g., carboxyfluorescein succinimidyl ester), the cells are stimulated to proliferate, the proliferated cells are fixed by addition of a fixative and then preserved by freeze drying or cryopreservation. |
| US09267953B2 |
Method for detection of specific immunoglobulin class G antibodies
Methods for determining an analyte in a sample by immunoassay in a one-step format without performing washing steps are described. The method includes a first analyte-specific receptor that contains at least two binding sites for the analyte, and a second analyte-specific receptor that selectively binds to an aggregate arrangement of at least two analyte molecules bound to the first receptor. |
| US09267952B2 |
Deconvolution method
The present invention relates generally to novel applications in combating infectious disease, cancer, allergy and autoimmune diseases. In one aspect, the invention relates to identifying one or more protein binding moieties of interest. In another aspect, the present invention relates to identifying one or more candidate vaccines. |
| US09267947B2 |
Compositions and methods for preventing or treating Burkholderia infection
The present invention provides a protein or a fragment or a variant of said protein, wherein the protein, fragment, or variant is capable of producing a protective immune response in an animal, wherein the immune response is protective against infection by Burkholderia species. Also provided is a method of preventing or treating infection in an animal caused by Burkholderia species which comprises administering an effective amount of the pharmaceutical composition of the present invention to the animal infected with Burkholderia species. |
| US09267946B2 |
Biomarkers, methods and kits for the diagnosis of rheumatoid arthritis
The present invention relates to peptides biomarkers that are specifically recognized by autoantibodies present in the sera of patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA). More specifically, the invention provides epitopes of PAD4, of BRAF, and of calpastatin as well as methods and kits for using these sequences for the diagnosis of RA, in particular for the diagnosis of RA in CCP-negative subjects. |
| US09267944B2 |
Biosensor utilizing a resonator having a functionalized surface
Systems and methods for detecting the presence of biomolecules in a sample using biosensors that incorporate resonators which have functionalized surfaces for reacting with target biomolecules. In one embodiment, a device includes a piezoelectric resonator having a functionalized surface configured to react with target molecules, thereby changing the mass and/or charge of the resonator which consequently changes the frequency response of the resonator. The resonator's frequency response after exposure to a sample is compared to a reference, such as the frequency response before exposure to the sample, a stored baseline frequency response or a control resonator's frequency response. |
| US09267942B2 |
Sugar chain array
A sugar chain array containing a sugar chain immobilized thereon for detecting binding between an analyte and a sugar chain, and a sugar chain array having the sugar chain immobilized thereon that is capable of inhibiting non-specific adsorption and binding of an analyte without having to coat the array with an adsorption inhibitor. A specific sugar chain is immobilized on the array, and is useful for detecting binding between the sugar chain and an analyte, such as a pathogen of an infectious disease or an excretion thereof. In addition, in the array, when a base material is coated with a polymeric compound having a unit having a primary amino group, a unit for maintaining hydrophilicity, and a unit having a hydrophobic group, the sugar chain is immobilized efficiently and non-specific adsorption and binding of the analyte can be effectively inhibited. |
| US09267940B2 |
Disc-like assay chip
The present invention provides a disc-like assay chip, and more specifically, the present invention provides an assay chip which can effectively clean a cleaned object existing in a fluid loop, and can be appropriately applied to a detection method of a reaction system using a step of necessarily cleaning the cleaned object, such as an immunofluorescent antibody method, and applied to a detection method using an enzymatic reaction (especially, an ELISA method). The present invention further provides a disc-like assay chip which is mounted on a centrifugal device such as a rotational disc and can perform detection or quantitation on a target substance through optical measurement after a specimen and a reagent react by use of a centrifugal force generated by rotation of the centrifugal device. |
| US09267937B2 |
System for screening particles
Screening of a library of particles in vivo and/or in vitro using Polyplex Iterative Combinatorial Optimization (PICO) allows for the design of particles for targeting a specific organ, tissue (e.g., cancer), or cell. Particles may, for example, include different targeting agents (e.g., aptamers or plurality of aptamers) on their surfaces, and the aptamer or aptamers may be evolved to provide better targeting of the particles. Libraries of particles are enriched in characteristics of particles that have been found to migrate to a tissue of interest, be taken up by cells, etc. The process may be repeated to engineer particles of a desired specificity or biological function. |
| US09267936B2 |
Synthetic mammalian neuromuscular junction and method of screening for a candidate drug thereon
A method for forming neuromuscular junctions includes forming functional neuromuscular junctions between motoneurons and muscle cells by co-culturing one or more human motoneurons and one or more human muscle cells in a substantially serum-free medium. A synthetic mammalian neuromuscular junction includes a human motoneuron functionally linked to a human muscle cell in a substantially serum-free medium. An artificial substrate may be used to support the one or more neuromuscular junctions. |
| US09267934B2 |
Methods and compositions for ameliorating pancreatic cancer
Embodiments of the present invention include methods and compositions for ameliorating cancer. Some embodiments include methods and compositions for ameliorating pancreatic cancer targeting the CXCR4 receptor and the CXCL12 ligand. |
| US09267933B2 |
Hanging droplet plate
A hanging droplet plate (1) comprises a predetermined number of droplet compartments (10) each being capable of receiving a droplet of a liquid. The respective droplet compartment (10) comprises a circumferential microfluidic wetting barrier (102) which is arranged to surround a respective cavity (100) and which prevents a droplet from spreading beyond the microfluidic wetting barrier (102). The respective compartment (10) comprises a closed bottom (101) and at least one additional circumferential microfluidic wetting barrier (104), each additional circumferential microfluidic wetting barrier (104) which is arranged to surround a preceding circumferential microfluidic wetting barrier (102). A wettable area (103) is arranged between two adjacently arranged microfluidic wetting barriers (102, 104). |
| US09267931B2 |
Method for discriminating red blood cells from white blood cells by using forward scattering from a laser in an automated hematology analyzer
A method for identifying, analyzing, and quantifying the cellular components of whole blood by means of an automated hematology analyzer and the detection of the light scattered, absorbed, and fluorescently emitted by each cell. More particularly, the aforementioned method involves identifying, analyzing, and quantifying the cellular components of whole blood by means of a light source having a wavelength ranging from about 400 nm to about 450 nm and multiple in-flow optical measurements and staining without the need for lysing red blood cells. |
| US09267926B2 |
Self adjusting corner scanner
An apparatus for inspecting a curved portion of a manufactured part comprises a frame, a sensor, a plunger, and a linking mechanism. The frame may include a first contact wall and an opposing second contact wall. Each contact wall may contact a planar portion of the part adjacent to the curved portion and may be oriented at an angle corresponding to an angle of the planar portions of the part adjacent to the curved portion. The sensor may transmit at least one signal to and receive at least one signal from the part. The plunger may contact the surface of the part and move as a radius of curvature of the part changes. The linking mechanism may couple to the plunger and may adjust the height of the sensor above a surface of the part in response to motion of the plunger. |
| US09267924B2 |
Method for detecting gas and a gas detector therefor
It is presented a method for detecting a gas (G). Acoustic waves (Wt) are generated and transmitted via a wave generating and sensing means (2) towards a reflecting wall (3) and thereafter reflected acoustic waves (Wt) are detected by the wave generating and sensing means (2) wherein a presence of the gas (G) is detected by determining a change in an output signal of the wave generating and sensing means (2). A gas detector (1) is also presented. |
| US09267922B2 |
Method and system for product supply chain assurance
A method and system for determining the purity and authenticity of a substance being transported in a container. A coded signal is first passed through the container and its contents thereby generating an identifier. When the container reaches its destination, a second signal is passed through the container and its contents thereby generating a second identifier. The first and second signals are compared to determine if the substance inside the container has been altered. |
| US09267920B2 |
Miniature sensor structures for ion mobility spectrometers
For ion mobility spectrometry applications, a desired shape of a sensor structure may be created by forming a desired shape from a ceramic material, such as aluminum nitride. In various embodiments, the sensor structure may be formed using discrete individual ceramic sheets and/or from a preformed ceramic tube. Via holes are formed into the sensor structure to provide for efficient circuitry configurations of the IMS drift tube and/or providing electrical connections between the interior and exterior of the drift tube. |
| US09267916B2 |
Electrophoresis buffer for faster migration, improved resolution and extended shelf-life
There is provided an electrolyte solution for extending shelf life, and/or accelerating or improving resolution or improving transfer efficacy for blot applications, or accelerating and improving resolution, or accelerating and improving transfer efficacy of gel electrophoresis and containing Tris(hydroxymethyl)aminomethane (TRIS), at least one zwitterion, and water. The electrolyte solution may be used in buffer systems for gel electrophoresis and the preparation of gels for gel electrophoresis, such as Western blot. |
| US09267912B2 |
Apparatus for analyzing gas information
A gas information estimation apparatus (100) is connected to a gas sensor element for detecting the concentration of gas flowing through an internal combustion engine (11), and estimates gas information other than the concentration. The apparatus includes gas sensor element provisional temperature calculation means (51) for calculating a provisional temperature of the gas sensor element using a predetermined simulation model, and inputting a reference value to the model as the parameter value; gas sensor element actual temperature measurement means (53), (54); gas information calculation means (55) for calculating the true value of the parameter value which can be input to the model in place of the reference value such that the provisional temperature of the gas sensor element approaches the actual temperature; and gas information obtaining means (57) for obtaining an estimative value of the gas information from the true value. |
| US09267911B2 |
Encoded biosensors and methods of manufacture and use thereof
An analyte test sensor strip is disclosed having information coded thereon as well as a method of forming the same and conducting an analyte test using the analyte test sensor strip. Information relating to an attribute of the strip or batch/lot of strips may be coded based on resistance values pertaining to electrical aspects of the strip, such as a primary resistive element and a secondary resistive element, the secondary resistive element having one of a plurality of states defined by a location of a closed tap to form a unique resistive path for the secondary resistive element that includes a portion of the primary resistive element depending on the location of the closed tap. The states may be formed on the strip by a secondary processing step in the manufacture of the strip in which a plurality of taps are severed leaving only one tap in a closed state. |
| US09267903B2 |
Methods and apparatuses for inspecting semiconductor devices using electron beams
Methods and apparatuses for inspecting a semiconductor device using electron beam are provided. The methods may include performing detection operations on a detection target pattern N times and determining a number of detection operations which have been performed until a maximum secondary electron amount of the detection target pattern is obtained. Each of the detection operations may include irradiating the detection target pattern with an electron beam, interrupting the irradiating and detecting a secondary electron amount of the detection target pattern after a detection waiting time has elapsed since the interrupting the irradiating. |
| US09267899B2 |
Contaminant measurement substrate, apparatus and method for fabricating substrate using the same
An apparatus for fabricating a substrate includes a chamber providing a space in which processes are performed, a contaminant measurement substrate including a base material configured to collect contaminants, and laser marks on the base material and defining coordinates of the base material, a first stage disposed inside the chamber, and upon which the contaminant measurement substrate is seated during collection of the contaminants of the chamber, a second stage disposed outside the chamber, and upon which the contaminant measurement substrate is seated during measurement of the contaminants of the chamber collected on the contaminant measurement substrate, and a contaminant measurement light source disposed on an upper portion of the second stage and configured to irradiate the contaminant measurement substrate seated on the second stage with light during the measurement of the contaminants of the chamber collected on the contaminant measurement substrate. |
| US09267896B2 |
Uranium analysis using luminescence enhancing oxidant and oxidant composition
According to the present invention, there is provided a method of determining a concentration of uranium including: a) a primary measuring step of measuring luminescence intensity or luminescence attenuation of uranium (VI) of an oxidant added sample obtained by adding an oxidant composition to a detection target sample; b) a secondary measuring step of adding different volumes of standard solution containing uranium (VI) having a predetermined concentration to a plurality of oxidant added samples, respectively, and then measuring luminescence intensity or luminescence attenuation of uranium (VI) contained in each standard solution added sample; and c) a calculating step of calculating a concentration of uranium (VI) contained in the detection target sample by a standard addition method based on the primary and secondary measurements. With the method for determining a concentration of uranium according to the present invention, the concentration of uranium may be further rapidly and accurately analyzed. |
| US09267894B2 |
Method for making surface enhanced Raman scattering device
A method for making a surface enhanced Raman scattering device in accordance with one aspect of the present invention comprises a first step of forming a nanoimprint layer on a main surface of a wafer including a plurality of portions each corresponding to a substrate; a second step of transferring, by using a mold having a pattern corresponding to a fine structural part, the pattern to the nanoimprint layer after the first step, and thereby forming the formed layer including the fine structural part for each portion corresponding to the substrate; a third step of forming a conductor layer on the fine structural part after the second step; and a fourth step of cutting the wafer into each portion corresponding to the substrate after the second step. |
| US09267893B2 |
Triple sum frequency coherent multidimensional imaging
Methods of obtaining a multidimensional image of a sample are provided comprising (a) directing a first coherent light pulse having a first frequency ω1 and a first wave vector k1 at a first location in the sample, (b) directing a second coherent light pulse having a second frequency ω2 and a second wave vector k2 at the first location, (c) directing a third coherent light pulse having a third frequency ω3 and a third wave vector k3 at the first location and (d) detecting a coherent output signal having a fourth frequency ω4 and a fourth wave vector k4. At least two, but optionally all three, of the coherent light pulses each excite a different transition to a discrete quantum state (e.g., transitions to vibrational states or to electronic states) of a molecule or molecular functionality in the sample. Steps (a)-(d) are repeated at a sufficient number of other locations in the sample to provide the multidimensional image. |
| US09267889B1 |
High efficiency light absorbing and light emitting nanostructures
Apparatus, systems, and methods using multi-shelled nanostructures can be used in a variety of applications. In various embodiments, a multi-shelled nanostructure can include one or more light-absorbing and light-emitting cores enclosed by a number of nanoshells. For a multi-shelled nanostructure having multiple conductive nanoshells, the nanoshells are separated from each other by a dielectric. Additional apparatus, systems, and methods are disclosed. |
| US09267883B2 |
System and method of monitoring composition of a flow of breathable gas using a detector and emitter positioned on the same side of the flow of breathable gas
A gas measurement module (16) for use with an airway adapter (22) is configured such that both an emitter (48) and a detector (52, 54) are disposed on the same side of a sampling chamber (46) formed within the airway adapter. Optical elements (56) that guide electromagnetic radiation from the emitter back and forth across the sampling chamber to the detector include at least one toric element. The at least one toric element compensates for a tilted folding mirror positioned on a side of the sampling chamber opposite from the emitter and the detector. |
| US09267882B2 |
Apparatus for detecting organic compounds and apparatus for manufacturing display device using the same
An apparatus for detecting an organic compound and an apparatus for manufacturing a display device, the apparatus for detecting an organic compound including an infrared light emitting unit that irradiates infrared rays toward a gas-phase organic compound used as a process gas in an atmospheric pressure equipment; a first window that separates the organic compound from the infrared light emitting unit; an infrared detection unit that measures an infrared absorbance of the organic compound; and a second window that separates the organic compound from the infrared detection unit, wherein infrared absorption regions of the first window and the second window are different from an infrared absorption region of the organic compound. |
| US09267877B2 |
System and method for making concentration measurements within a sample material using orbital angular momentum
Signal generation circuitry generates a first signal having at least one orbital angular momentum applied thereto and applies the first signal to the sample. A detector for receives the first signal after it passes through the sample and determines the concentration of the material within the sample based on a detected value of orbital angular momentum with the first signal received from the sample. |
| US09267869B2 |
Particle capture device
In example embodiments, particle collection efficiency in aerosol analyzers and other particle measuring instruments is improved by a particle capture device that employs multiple collisions to decrease momentum of particles until the particles are collected (e.g., vaporized or come to rest). The particle collection device includes an aperture through which a focused particle beam enters. A collection enclosure is coupled to the aperture and has one or more internal surfaces against which particles of the focused beam collide. One or more features are employed in the collection enclosure to promote particles to collide multiple times within the enclosure, and thereby be vaporized or come to rest, rather than escape through the aperture. |
| US09267860B2 |
Tire balance measuring device
The present invention provides a tire balance measuring device capable of minimizing the influence exerted on a measured value due to an inclination of a lock shaft even when the lock shaft (fitted shaft) is inclined in a random direction at an angle created by a gap corresponding to a fitting allowance every time a tire is supplied with gas. The tire balance measuring device of this invention comprises a sensor for measuring the inclination of the lock shaft, and a computing unit for computing an amount of change in a unbalance of the tire from an output value received from the sensor after the tire is supplied with gas, and correcting a result of measuring a balance of the tire using the computed amount of change in the unbalance. |
| US09267854B2 |
Strain and temperature discrimination using fiber bragg gratings in a cross-wire configuration
A fiber Bragg grating cross-wire sensor may be used to independently determine strain and temperature variation. An example fiber Bragg grating cross-wire sensor comprises a first fiber Bragg grating (FBG) that reflects a first percentage, R1, of light of a first wavelength, λ1, and a second FBG that reflects a second percentage, R2, of light of a second wavelength, λ2. The second FBG is positioned orthogonal to the first FBG, and λ1 is substantially equal to λ2, but R1 is different from R2. As the FBG cross-wire sensor experiences a strain and/or a temperature variation, the wavelengths of light reflected by the first FBG and the second FBG will shift from the first and second wavelength, λ1 and λ2, to first and second shifted wavelengths, λA and λT, respectively. Based on R1, R2, λ1, λA, and λT, the strain and/or the temperature variation may be independently determined. |
| US09267851B2 |
Single-contact tunneling thermometry
A single-contact tunneling thermometry circuit includes a tunnel junction formed between two objects. Junction temperature gradient information is determined based on a mathematical relationship between a target alternating voltage applied across the junction and the junction temperature gradient. Total voltage measured across the junction indicates the magnitude of the target alternating voltage. A thermal gradient is induced across the junction. A reference thermovoltage is measured when zero alternating voltage is applied across the junction. An increasing alternating voltage is applied while measuring a thermovoltage component and a DC rectification voltage component created by the applied alternating voltage. The target alternating voltage is reached when the thermovoltage is nullified or doubled by the DC rectification voltage depending on the sign of the reference thermovoltage. Thermoelectric current and current measurements may be utilized in place of the thermovoltage and voltage measurements. The system may be automated with a feedback loop. |
| US09267849B2 |
Display device with temperature sensor
A display device includes a temperature sensor which is arranged in the inside of a housing, and a control unit which calculates a temperature of a display panel based on an output value of the temperature sensor. The control unit calculates the temperature of the display panel based on a current output value of the temperature sensor and an output value of the temperature sensor received prior to the receiving of the current output value. With such a display device, the temperature of the display panel can be calculated with high accuracy even when a temperature of a device which constitutes a heat source is changed. |
| US09267843B2 |
Hyperspectral imaging systems and methods for imaging a remote object
A hyperspectral imaging system and a method are described herein for providing a hyperspectral image of an area of a remote object. In one aspect, the hyperspectral imaging system includes a fore optic with optics for acquiring and projecting an image from a remote object, a scannable slit mechanism with a plurality of slits for receiving the projected image, where the projected image simultaneously illuminates two or more of the plurality of slits, a spectrometer for receiving and dispersing images passing through the two or more simultaneously-illuminated slits, and a two-dimensional image sensor for recording images received from the spectrometer, where the images received from different slits are recorded on different sets of detection elements of the two-dimensional image sensor. |
| US09267842B2 |
Automated focusing, cleaning, and multiple location sampling spectrometer system
An analysis system includes a moveable focusing lens, a laser (typically an eye safe laser) having an output directed at the focusing lens, and a spectrometer outputting intensity data from a sample. A controller system is responsive to the spectrometer and is configured to energize the laser, process the output of the spectrometer, and adjust the position of the focusing lens relative to the sample until the spectrometer output indicates a maximum or near maximum intensity resulting from a laser output focused to a spot on the sample. |
| US09267838B2 |
Collecting chute of combination weigher
A collecting chute of a combination weigher has three discharge paths and can discharge objects so as to not get stuck in a discharge path. The collecting chute includes an inner funnel which discharges in an inward direction, a right outer funnel which discharges in an outward direction from the hoppers in a right group, and a left outer funnel which discharges in an outward direction from the hoppers in a left group, and a right chute member in which an edge of the right outer funnel is coupled to an outer surface of a right funnel section constituting the inner funnel and a left chute member in which an edge of the left outer funnel is coupled to an outer surface of a left section constituting the inner funnel are removably mounted to a frame. |
| US09267827B2 |
Electromagnetic flow meter excitation circuit and electromagnetic flow meter
An excitation circuit, which is used in an electromagnetic flow meter, measures a flow rate value for a fluid, based on an electromotive force. An excitation coil, which is provided on an outside of a measurement tube, is supplied with an excitation current, where, in response, the electromotive force, which is perpendicular to a magnetic field of the excitation coil that is generated in the fluid within the measurement tube, is detected by a pair of electrodes provided on the measurement tube. |
| US09267823B2 |
Distance measuring apparatus and method for calculating a distance in a conducting structure
A distance measuring apparatus and method for calculating a distance in a conducting structure are provided. One distance measuring apparatus provides for calculating a distance between a reflection body in a conducting structure and an injection point provided on an end section of the conducting structure for electromagnetic waves is provided. The distance measuring apparatus includes a transmitting and receiving device with a conduction cross-over provided at the injection point for the coaxially-inductive coupling of the transmitting and receiving device to the conducting structure in order to inject an electromagnetic wave into the conducting structure and to decouple the electromagnetic wave reflected on the reflection body from the conducting structure. The distance measuring apparatus also includes an analysis device for calculating a distance between the injection point and the reflection body from the phase difference between the injected electromagnetic wave and the decoupled electromagnetic wave. |
| US09267822B1 |
Systems and methods for evaluating coupled components
In some embodiments, a system for evaluating coupled components includes a first diffraction grating provided on a first component, a second diffraction grating provided on a second component, a light source that emits light having a wavelength that is larger than the grating periods of the first and second diffraction gratings, and a photodetector that senses the intensity of the light after it passes through the diffraction gratings. |
| US09267819B2 |
Absolute position encoder scale having plates alternating with varying recesses
An absolute position encoder scale is provided having scale elements (e.g., plates and plate abatement features such as recesses) which alternate along the scale pattern. At least one of the scale elements has a characteristic (e.g., a recess depth) that is varied along the scale pattern to provide a different respective eddy current response. A signal portion of a read head is responsive to the respective eddy currents to output absolute position signals. For the plate abatement features, the characteristic that may be varied may be a recess depth, an amount of a non-conductive area, an amount of a recessed area, etc. As a varying depth example, the scale may be formed from a bulk material (e.g., aluminum) in which progressively deeper recessed depths are cut along the scale. For plate features, the characteristic that may be varied may include a plate height, an amount of a plate area, etc. |
| US09267818B2 |
Magnetic sensor device
Provided is a magnetic sensor device capable of performing signal processing at high speed with high accuracy. The magnetic sensor device includes: a plurality of Hall elements; a plurality of differential amplifiers to which the plurality of Hall elements are connected, respectively; a detection voltage setting circuit for outputting a reference voltage; and a comparator including: a plurality of differential input pairs connected to the plurality of differential amplifiers, respectively; and a differential input pair connected to the detection voltage setting circuit. |
| US09267816B2 |
Magnetic logic units configured to measure magnetic field direction
An apparatus includes circuits, a field line configured to generate a magnetic field based on an input, a sensing module configured to determine a parameter of each circuit, and a magnetic field direction determination module configured to determine an angular orientation of the apparatus relative to an external magnetic field based on the parameter. Each circuit includes multiple magnetic tunnel junctions. Each magnetic tunnel junction includes a storage layer having a storage magnetization direction and a sense layer having a sense magnetization direction configured based on the magnetic field. Each magnetic tunnel junction is configured such that the sense magnetization direction and a resistance of the magnetic tunnel junction vary based on the external magnetic field. The parameter varies based on the resistances of the multiple magnetic tunnel junctions. The magnetic field direction determination module is implemented in at least one of a memory or a processing device. |
| US09267815B2 |
Remote monitoring system, data collecting device and monitoring device
A data collecting device collects operation data of facility equipment that constitute a facility device control system. Upon receiving a collection data request command from a monitoring device, the data collecting device reads one or multiple items of operation data of the type specified by the collection data request command from among multiple items of collected operation data, and sends to the monitoring device response data wherein the read data is stored in a prescribed format. When a user inputs an operation that requests monitoring of operation data, the monitoring device has the user select a desired operation data type from among the operation data types that can be disclosed to the user, and sends to the data collecting device a collection data request command wherein the selected operation data type is specified. Upon receiving the response data from the data collecting device, the monitoring device displays, in the prescribed format, one or multiple items of operation data included in the response data. |
| US09267811B2 |
Methods for automated and semiautomated composition of visual sequences, flows, and flyovers based on content and context
A system with the ability to dynamically compose a sequence of visual views or flows allowing a single object or region, or multiple objects or regions, to be viewed from different perspectives and visual distances is described. The sequence of views can provide smooth flyovers over positions and details on objects that are deemed to be of interest, with changes in zoom level and/or velocity that are functions of the estimated complexity and/or unfamiliarity with features of the object. In an example, a flyover displaying different views on a map of a city arterial system on a small-screened mobile device is composed based on current traffic conditions, swooping up and down with parabolic trajectories, based on distances being traversed, and pausing at times over key traffic jams and other findings of interest based on the estimated visual complexity and predicted atypicality of situations. |
| US09267806B2 |
System and method for automatically receiving geo-relevant information in a vehicle
Path-relevant information is provided by a backend server system to a vehicle without an input or request from the vehicle operator. Program applications, including a web browser application, records vehicle route data in a local memory during vehicle travel. Such vehicle route data may include current GPS coordinates, time of day, day of week, etc. The recorded vehicle route data may then be used to locally generate one or more route prediction models. A predicted vehicle route may be generated from the route prediction models. Once a vehicle route has been predicted, coordinate data corresponding to the predicted route may be transmitted to a backend server. Thereafter, path-relevant information, based on the transmitted coordinate data, may then be received from the backend server, and without the vehicle operator having to provide any input or request. |
| US09267805B2 |
Modeling significant locations
Techniques for modeling significant locations are described. A significant location can be a location that is significant to a user of a mobile device for a variety of reasons. The mobile device can determine that a place or region is a significant location upon determining that, with sufficient certainty, the mobile device has stayed at the place or region for a sufficient amount of time. The mobile device can construct a state model that is an abstraction of one or more significant locations. The state model can include states representing the significant locations, and transitions representing movement of the mobile device between the locations. The mobile device can use the state model to provide predictive user assistance. |
| US09267800B2 |
System and method for assisting the driver of a biomechanically driven vehicle including at least one wheel
A system for assisting a driver of a biomechanically-driven vehicle having at least one wheel (R), such as a bicycle, includes a device (DET1) for determining the speed of the vehicle, another device (DET) for determining the heading of the vehicle, a magnetometer (M) with at least two measurement axes for supplying data to determine the heading of the vehicle, and a device for supplying information relating to a movement of the vehicle, based on the speed of the vehicle, the slope of the rolling surface, and the heading of the vehicle. |
| US09267798B2 |
Generating elevation data for maps
Generating elevation data for maps is disclosed, including: selecting a barometric data candidate user activity from a plurality of user activities that matches an edge; normalizing a recorded elevation corresponding to each of at least a subset of a plurality of data points associated with the selected barometric data candidate user activity based at least in part on obtained elevation data associated with the edge; storing the normalized recorded elevation corresponding to each of the at least subset of the plurality of data points associated with the barometric data candidate user activity as a set of elevation data associated with the edge in a user preference map; and using the set of elevation data associated with the edge in the user preference map to determine a suggested route based at least in part on a user input route preference associated with a desired route elevation. |
| US09267796B2 |
Distance measuring device
An optical device is disclosed that may be employed in distance measuring devices. In at least one embodiment, the optical device includes a control unit that is adapted to cause at least one control signal generator unit to generate at least one control signal according to a predetermined temporal function on the basis of an elapsed time from a predetermined point in time. On the basis of the generated at least one control signal, at least one parameter of a receiver unit may be adjusted during the travel time of the optical pulse, wherein the at least one parameter affects the dynamic range of the receiver unit. In this way, the dynamic range of the receiver unit may be increased. A method is further disclosed for operating such an optical device, along with a distance measuring device including such an optical device and a surveying instrument including such a distance measuring device. |
| US09267793B2 |
Movement monitoring device for attachment to equipment
A movement monitoring device attaches to equipment and includes a housing and a transmitter. The housing includes an integrated circuit with (a) a detector sensitive to physical movement of the equipment when the housing is attached to the equipment and (b) a processor for processing data of the detector to determine an event experienced by the equipment. The transmitter communicatively couples with the integrated circuit for communicating the event to a remote receiver. |
| US09267792B2 |
Method and apparatus for compensating lateral displacements and low speed variations in the measure of a longitudinal profile of a surface
Measuring a distance to a surface while compensating for variations in a transverse position and/or low speed displacement of the instrument. One method includes retrieving a predetermined transversal distance from a longitudinal feature at which to extract a relevant distance; retrieving a distance set; retrieving a position of the longitudinal feature relative to the distance set; extracting a range point at the predetermined transversal distance from the longitudinal feature; adding the extracted point to a longitudinal distance set. In another method, if two sensors are provided with an overlap in the transversal direction, extracting a range point at a predetermined transversal position; adding the extracted range point to a longitudinal distance set; retrieving a pitch angle of the instrument; calculating a local slope of the surface using an overlapping transversal point, the pitch angle and the separation length; calculating a height variation using the local slope and a longitudinal separation. |
| US09267791B2 |
Sash position sensor
Systems and methods for determining the area of a sash opening in a fume hood formed by at least one movable sash panel. An emitter and sensor panel is mounted in a fume hood enclosure space. The emitter and sensor panel comprises at least one light emitter mounted on one side of an optical sensor. The at least one light emitter is configured to illuminate the fume hood enclosure space. At least one reflective marker is mounted on one edge of the sash opening to reflect light from the at least one light emitter. Optical information detected at the optical sensor is used to determine a variable distance to the at least one reflective marker. The variable distance and known distance parameters are used to determine the area of the sash opening. |
| US09267790B2 |
Measuring device of measurement object, calculating device, measurement method, and method for producing item
A measuring device that measures a measurement object includes a two-dimensional measuring unit that outputs two-dimensional image data by performing image pickup on the measurement object, a three-dimensional measuring unit that outputs three-dimensional data by three-dimensionally measuring the measurement object; and an obtaining unit that detects a temporary edge of the measurement object using the three-dimensional data, sets an edge detection range in a two-dimensional image using the detected temporary edge, and detects an edge of the measurement object in the edge detection range using the two-dimensional image data to obtain shape information of the measurement object. |
| US09267789B2 |
Method for the absolute measurement of the flatness of the surfaces of optical elements, using an interferometer and a three-flat method
A method for absolute measurement of flatness of surfaces of optical elements. In the method, an interferometer having a measurement axis is used for applying a three-flat method to three optical elements, by conducting actual measurements on the elements, surfaces of the elements are reconstructed by an iterative processing operation in which measurements are simulated and simulated measurements are compared with the actual measurements. At least two actual measurements are made after having performed a rotation around the measurement axis and/or a translation perpendicular to the measured axis, of a measured optical element relative to the other. |
| US09267788B2 |
Optical sensor having light guide members with characteristic detection portions whose optical charateristics vary in accordance with a physicochemical state
An optical sensor includes a light source, a light supply light guide member optically coupled to the light source, detection light guide members, a light distribution unit to distribute light from the light supply light guide member to the detection light guide members, and a light separating detector to separate and detect the light guided by the detection light guide members. Each of the detection light guide members includes a characteristic detection portion whose optical characteristics vary in accordance with a physicochemical state. |
| US09267784B2 |
Laser line probe having improved high dynamic range
A method for measuring three-dimensional coordinates of an object surface with a line scanner, the line scanner including a projector and a camera, the projector projecting onto the object surface a first line of light at a first time and a second line of light at a second time, the integrated energy of the second line of light different than the first line of light, the camera capturing the reflections of the first line of light and the second line of light, a processor processing the collected data after discarding portions of the image that are saturated or dominated by electrical noise, and determining three-dimensional coordinates of the object surface based at least in part on the processed data and on a baseline distance. |
| US09267781B2 |
On-axis magnetic field angle sensors, systems and methods
Embodiments relate to magnetic field sensors, such as magnetic field angle sensors with generally on-axis arrangements of sensor elements relative to a rotation axis of a magnet or shaft. The shaft comprises or is coupled to an end portion that comprises a soft magnetic material, in embodiments, with the end portion having an end surface proximate the sensor that is rotationally asymmetric with respect to the rotation axis running through the length of the shaft. The sensor comprises at least three magnetic field sensing elements arranged in a plane generally perpendicular to the shaft and rotation axis. Circuitry forming part of or coupled to the sensor is configured to estimate a rotational position of the shaft by combining the signals of the at least three magnetic field sensing elements. |
| US09267779B2 |
Flexible mount for coupling force actuator to caliper jaw
A flexible mount is provided for coupling a force actuator to a caliper jaw. The flexible mount includes a first mounting portion for being coupled to the caliper jaw, a second mounting portion for being coupled to the force actuator, and a flexible element (e.g., a parallel flexure) coupled between the first and second mounting portions. When a force is applied to the force actuator (e.g., by a user pushing on a thumbwheel) along the measuring axis direction, the flexible element flexes to generate a measuring force that is applied to the caliper jaw. The use of the flexible mount results in more control and a better feel for a user when attempting to exert control to provide a desired amount of force during a measuring process. The flexible mount may also utilize a fastening configuration that is compatible with existing mounting features on existing caliper jaws. |
| US09267778B2 |
Tape measure
A tape measure includes a housing assembly having a first side wall, a second side wall, and a peripheral wall extending from the first side wall to the second side wall. The housing assembly defines a cavity, and the peripheral wall defines a bottom surface and a tape port. A measuring tape is rotatably supported by the housing. At least a portion of the measuring tape forms a spool disposed within the cavity. The measuring tape extends and retracts from the cavity through the tape port. A hook member is fixedly coupled to an end portion of the measuring tape. A first lamp is coupled to the housing assembly and is oriented to illuminate a portion of the measuring tape. |
| US09267773B2 |
Broadhead
Various embodiments of the present disclosure include a mechanical broadhead for use with an archery bow and arrow. In certain arrangements, a broadhead is provided that maintains the cutting blades in a retracted or closed position during flight of the arrow. Upon target contact, the blades expand outwardly from the closed position. |
| US09267771B2 |
Quick release archery target
An archery target includes a clamping assembly having at least two conditions wherein a first condition applies compressing force to a target material and a second condition releases at least a portion of the compressing force from the target material such that arrow removal is easier. The clamping assembly allows the user of the target to readily change the clamping assembly between the two conditions. The clamping assembly may be manual, powered, or a combination of the two. The clamping assembly may include a mechanical lever, a winder, a crank, a hydraulic device, or a pneumatic device. The clamping compressing force may be applied from the top, bottom, or sides of the target material. In some configurations, a strap is disposed around the target material and is tightened and loosened to apply and release the compressing force from the target material. |
| US09267770B2 |
Light emitting diodes for simulation of missile signatures
An emitting structure for simulating an irradiance signature of a missile is provided. The emitting structure includes one or more radiation sources, each of which includes at least one ultraviolet radiation source and at least one infrared radiation source. The emitting structure also includes a spherical shell and a mechanism for positioning the radiation source(s) along a three dimensional boundary of the spherical shell. The emitting structure can locate and operate one of the radiation sources to simulate the irradiance signature of the missile. |
| US09267767B2 |
Self-defense spray manufactured in various designs with portability
A portable self-defense spray to protect a person from danger under an emergency situation is provided. The compressive-spray structure includes a compact case manufactured in various designs by using a flexible long-length filling tube filled with the CN solution. In a typical spray structure, CN solution is always sprayed at only a right position, the filled CN solution is not completely exhausted, and the design of the self-defense spray is limited. The filling tube to receive the CN solution is provided in the case without being twisted. The vacuum pump operating member cooperating with the button member having the spray port is installed at one side of the filing tube. A cap is provided at an opposite side of the filling tube for the sealing purpose. Vacuum is generated with the pressing of the button member, so that the CN solution in the filling tube is sprayed due to compression. |
| US09267766B2 |
Armoured ventilation grille
The invention relates to an armored ventilation grille for an opening, the grille including an outer side to be exposed to a projectile shot and an inner side to be applied to the opening, the grille including a plurality of parallel bars, the bars having a V-shaped cross-section, each limb of the V being made of of a blade, the blades being arranged in chevrons in order to form baffles such that at least one blade is located in the trajectory of the projectile shot whatever the incidence may be. The grille according to the invention wherein the outer blades is made an armored material while the inner blades made of a ductile material, the blades all being fixed to transverse members in the bearing ranges in such a way that they can be disassembled. |
| US09267755B2 |
Projectile launching system
The invention relates to an archery system that launches an arrow from a position that is perpendicular to a direction of flight for the arrow. After release, the arrow rotates to a position that is parallel to the direction of flight to the target. |
| US09267754B2 |
Training weapon system for recoilless antitank rifle weapons
The invention relates to a training weapon system (1) intended for a recoilless antitank rifle (2), the training weapon system (1) comprising a sub-caliber barrel (3) for firing sub-caliber practice projectiles (4) provided with base plates (5), the sub-caliber barrel (3) being arranged in a shell-like body (6) in the barrel (7) of the recoilless antitank rifle (2), the front part of the sub-caliber barrel (3) being fitted in a guide part (8) for centering the barrel (3), and a rear part of the barrel (3) being fitted in a breech (9), comprising a firing channel (10) and a nozzle screw thread (11) for fitting a nozzle screw (12), which is arranged in the rear part of the shell-like body (6). The invention is characterized in that the training weapon system (1) comprises at least one locking part (13, 14), the function of which is to prevent the nozzle screw (12) or the base plate (5) of the projectile (4) or part of the base plate (5) being expelled backwards through the nozzle funnel (21) of the antitank rifle (2) as loose flying projectiles. |
| US09267751B2 |
Trigger mechanisms
A trigger mechanism includes a trigger assembly having a trigger nose and a preparator. A hammer includes a striking end. The hammer pivots about a hammer pivot between a cocked position of the hammer and a firing position of the hammer. The trigger assembly is mounted for movement between a charged stage, a partially discharged stage, and a fully discharged stage. The trigger nose is engaged to the hammer holding the hammer in the cocked position, in the charged stage. The trigger nose is released from the hammer, and the preparator is engaged to the hammer holding the hammer in the cocked position, in the partially discharged stage. The preparator is released from the hammer, in the fully discharged stage. |
| US09267745B2 |
Composite heat spreader containing synthetic graphite sheet and compressed graphite layer joined without adhesive
A composite heat spreader (10) having an in-plane thermal conductivity of greater than 600 W/m*K and a thickness of greater than 50 microns, the composite heat spreader including a first element (20) which includes at least one sheet of compressed particles of exfoliated graphite having a density of at least about 1.4 grams/cc; and a second element (30) which includes at least one sheet of synthetic graphite having a density of at least 1.8 grams/cc and an in-plane thermal conductivity of at least 700 W/m*K, where the first element and the second element are joined into a composite sheet without the use of adhesives. |
| US09267744B2 |
Gasification reactor with a heat exchange unit provided with one or more fouling protection devices
A gasification reactor with a heat exchange unit having a gas flow channel and one or more heat exchangers arranged within the gas flow channel, the heat exchangers having one or more heat exchange surfaces and one or more associated structures, such as a support structure or deflector plates. The associated structures are provided with fouling protection devices, such as blasters or flow guiding surfaces. |
| US09267742B2 |
Apparatus for controlling the temperature uniformity of a substrate
Apparatus for controlling the thermal uniformity of a substrate. In some embodiments, the thermal uniformity of the substrate is controlled to be more uniform. In some embodiments, the thermal uniformity of the substrate is controlled to be non-uniform in a desired pattern. In some embodiments, an apparatus for controlling thermal uniformity of a substrate includes a substrate support having a support surface to support a substrate thereon. A plurality of flow paths having a substantially equivalent fluid conductance are disposed within the substrate support to flow a heat transfer fluid beneath the support surface. |
| US09267741B2 |
Heat exchanger for use in cooling liquids
A heat exchanger has at least one inlet and outlet to permit circulation of refrigerant therethrough. Each heat exchanger includes a plurality of thin sections of material arranged between a pair of thin flat outer plates. Each of the thin sections of material is comprised of parallel flow paths, allowing for the refrigerant to flow through the inlet, then from one section to the next, and finally out the outlet. The arrangement of the sections of parallel flow paths allows for the refrigerant to come into contact with the majority of the inside wall of the outer plates, allowing for maximum heat exchange. In use for cooling liquids, the heat exchangers are arranged within a frame and brought into contact with the liquid to be cooled. When the heat exchangers are used to cool liquid sufficiently to produce ice crystals, a rotating scraping device sweeps across the surface of the heat exchanger, removing any ice crystals that have formed. |
| US09267739B2 |
Pedestal with multi-zone temperature control and multiple purge capabilities
Substrate support assemblies for a semiconductor processing apparatus are described. The assemblies may include a pedestal and a stem coupled with the pedestal. The pedestal may be configured to provide multiple regions having independently controlled temperatures. Each region may include a fluid channel to provide a substantially uniform temperature control within the region, by circulating a temperature controlled fluid that is received from and delivered to internal channels in the stem. The fluid channels may include multiple portions configured in a parallel-reverse flow arrangement. The pedestal may also include fluid purge channels that may be configured to provide thermal isolation between the regions of the pedestal. |
| US09267737B2 |
Multichannel heat exchangers employing flow distribution manifolds
The present disclosure is directed to heat exchangers with flow distribution manifolds divided into an inlet section and a distribution section by a distributor. The inlet section may have a relatively small cross-sectional area that promotes mixed phase flow of liquid and vapor refrigerant. The manifolds may be used with multichannel tubes with flow path inlet sections that allow refrigerant to enter the flow paths through an outer wall of the tubes. In certain embodiments, a portion of the outer wall is removed to expose the flow paths to a distribution chamber within the inlet manifold. The multichannel tubes extend into the distribution section to partition the distribution section into a series of distribution chambers defined by a pair of adjacent tubes, the distributor, and the inlet manifold. Within each distribution chamber, the refrigerant may be directed into the multichannel tubes through the inlet sections of the multichannel tubes. |
| US09267736B2 |
Hand dryer with point of ingress dependent air delay and filter sensor
A lavatory system includes a hand dryer with at least a first proximity sensor and a second proximity sensor to detect an object for drying. A controller is communicatively linked to the first and second proximity sensors. The controller activates a drying operation after a first delay period if the first proximity sensor first detects the object for drying and activates a drying operation after a second delay period if the second proximity sensor first detects the object for drying. A filter flow sensor may also be provided to ensure proper filtering of the dryer's air. |
| US09267734B2 |
Microwave vacuum-drying of organic materials
An apparatus and method for microwave vacuum-drying of organic materials such as food products. The dehydration apparatus (20) has a vacuum chamber (24) with an input module (28) at one end and a discharge module (32) at the other. The vacuum chamber has access doors (80) spaced between the input end (30) and the discharge end (34) which provide operator and maintenance access. Microwave generators (86) are mounted on each access door and arranged to radiate through a microwave chamber and microwave-transparent window on the access door into the vacuum chamber. A pair of rollers (60) in the vacuum chamber rotates the container of organic material (112) about a horizontal axis, and a chain drive (64) pulls the containers along the rollers through the vacuum chamber. |
| US09267733B2 |
Sheet conveyor, cooling device, and image forming apparatus
A sheet conveyor includes a first conveyance belt, a second conveyance belt, a first driving roller, a second driving roller, a first gear, and a second gear. In switching between sandwich and separation states, an axial center of a rotation shaft of the first or second gear moves on a movement plane substantially perpendicular to a direction in which the first conveyance belt and the second conveyance belt convey a sheet. Where L represents diameter of a tooth edge circle of the second gear in unit of millimeter and T1 represents a chordal tooth thickness of the second gear, an acute-side angle θ in unit of degree (°) formed by the movement plane and an interaxial-center plane including the axial center of the rotation shaft of each of the first gear and the second gear in the sandwich state is within a range represented by the following Formula 1: Tan−1(2×T1/L)<|θ|<45°. |
| US09267729B2 |
Home appliance and method of controlling the same
Provided is a home appliance that outputs an operating sound, if a predetermined operating sound output condition is satisfied, the home appliance including: a storage unit that stores at least one sound; a manipulation unit through which a sound to be set as the operating sound is selected from among the at least one sound from a user; a sound output unit that outputs the operating sound; and a controller that controls the sound output unit to output the sound selected by the user to the operating sound, if the operating sound output condition is satisfied. The user directly inputs sounds to the home appliance and selects an operating sound from among the sounds so that the home appliance capable of providing various operating sounds according to a user's taste can be provided. |
| US09267728B2 |
System for fastening a furniture front
A system for fastening a furniture front to a door of a built-in refrigerator is provided and includes at least two retaining fittings interposed between the back of the furniture front and the front of the door of the built-in refrigerator. An ice/water dispenser is provided on the door of the built-in refrigerator, the dispenser being actuatable through a recess in the furniture front, and one of the retaining fittings is arranged directly next to the dispenser between the door and the furniture front. |
| US09267720B2 |
Air conditioner and method of controlling the same
An air conditioner may include an indoor device and an outdoor device. The outdoor device may include a plurality of compressors, a plurality of bypass tubes respectively connected to the plurality of compressors, and a plurality of bypass valves respectively provided to the bypass tubes. When at least one of the plurality of compressors is stopped during operation of the air conditioner and the plurality of compressors, a bypass valve corresponding to the stopped compressor may be opened to equalize an internal pressure of the stopped compressor to facilitate a re-start of operation of the stopped compressor without adversely affecting overall performance of the air conditioner. |
| US09267715B2 |
Icing protection system for an aircraft and method for operating an icing protection system
An icing protection system comprises a fuel cell, an evaporative cooling system, a thermal deicing device, a control unit and a device for measuring the pressure in the evaporative cooling system. The evaporative cooling system is in thermal contact with the fuel cell and with the thermal deicing device in order to conduct heat from the fuel cell to the thermal deicing device. The control unit controls the electrical power demanded from the evaporatively cooled fuel cell in dependence on a deviation of the pressure measured by the pressure measuring device from a predetermined NOMINAL pressure. In this way, an energetically very efficient and very well controllable icing protection system is made available that can be operated without bleed air supplied by engines or electrical energy provided by engine generators. |
| US09267710B2 |
Solar thermal collectors and thin plate heat exchangers for solar applications
According to various aspects, exemplary embodiments are disclosed of solar thermal collectors, solar heating systems, and thin plate heat exchangers and absorbers. The thin plate heat exchangers and absorbers may be used for solar applications and/or non-solar applications. In an exemplary embodiment, a solar thermal collector generally includes a first layer comprising polymer and configured to allow sunlight to pass therethrough. A second layer comprises polymer and is configured to absorb thermal energy from sunlight. The second layer includes edges heat sealed to edges of the first layer. A permeable core is disposed between the first and second layers. In operation, a heat transfer fluid may flow through the permeable core and directly contact the second layer, whereby thermal energy is transferrable from the permeable core and the second layer to the heat transfer fluid. |
| US09267709B2 |
Device for collecting solar energy
The invention relates to a device for collecting solar energy (1), characterized in that it includes at least one solar receiver (2) including at least one suspension of solid particles fluidized by a gas, each suspension circulating between an inlet and an outlet of the receiver (2), wherein the volume of particles is between 40% and 55% of the volume of the suspension, and the average size of the particles is between 20 and 150 μm. |
| US09267707B2 |
Heating power adjusting apparatus of hot blast heater
Disclosed is a heating power adjusting apparatus of a hot blast heater which controls pressure of air supplied to a burner by executing selectively switching between the cross-sectional areas of orifices in a flow space of air located between a pump and a burner head, and thereby variably adjusts heating power generated from the burner. The heating power adjusting apparatus adjusts includes a valve body including an air injection part, an air exhaust part, and an air flow space between the air injection part and the air exhaust part, an orifice body rotatably installed in the air flow space of the valve body and provided with a plurality of orifices having different flow cross-sectional areas to variably adjust the flow rate of air, and a rotary knob to adjust rotation of the orifice body with respect to the valve body. |
| US09267705B2 |
Membrane seal for water heater tank spuds
A method of manufacturing a water heater includes providing a water heater tank having an interior and an exterior and a tank aperture communicating between the interior and exterior. A spud that defines a spud aperture extending from a first end to a second end is provided. The spud aperture is internally threaded and has a counterbore adjacent the second end. A membrane having a membrane body and a plurality of tabs extending outwardly from the membrane body is provided. The membrane is seated within the counterbore such that the tabs deform and engage a surface of the counterbore to hold the membrane in the counterbore. Thereafter, the second end of the spud is welded to the tank, such that the membrane is captured between the spud and the tank and communication between the tank aperture and the internally threaded portion of the spud aperture is obstructed by the membrane. |
| US09267704B1 |
Portable heater housing
A portable forced air unit is provided with an elongated housing. A portion of the housing may include a divergent section or expansion area in the direction of the forced air flow of the unit. The airflow cooling channel defined within the divergent section increases in size in the direction of flow. The divergent section may have one or more apertures therethrough. The divergent section may be positioned adjacent the fuel source. A converging area or outlet section of the housing may taper in the direction of air flow of the unit. The taper of the housing outlet section may be a variety of shapes. The airflow cooling channel defined within the outlet section reduces in size in the direction of flow. |
| US09267702B2 |
Adjustable transition for accessing box coils
Methods and systems are disclosed with regard to a transition used in air conditioning systems having box evaporator coils. One embodiment includes a method for accessing box evaporator coils. The method may include opening an access panel located on a transition having a first opened end and a second opened end located opposite of the first opened end, wherein the first opened end securably aligns with an opened end of a furnace, and the second opened end securably aligns with one opened end of a box housing the box evaporator coils. Further, the method may include extending a member through the access panel for interacting with the box evaporator coils. |
| US09267700B2 |
Appliance airflow detection using differential pressure sensing
A device for detecting and/or measuring air flow in a cooling air flow passageway of an appliance using solid-state flow detectors. Heat generating components of the appliance are controlled in response to detected air flow. More specifically, the disclosure provides a device for detecting the presence of airflow and/or the approximate rate of airflow in a cooling channel of an appliance chassis. Based on this information, the appliance can perform safety-related tasks, such as de-energizing associated heating elements if there is too-low (or no) airflow detected. The solid-state flow detectors are easily fabricated, installed, and calibrated and avoids the calibration, fabrication and/or installation difficulties associated with sail switches and other such approaches such as thermal limit switches. |
| US09267699B1 |
Vent pipe cap
A protective vent line cap for protecting sanitary plumbing vent lines is described. The vent line cap includes an open bottom conically flared shroud that attaches to the vent line using a mounting strap having an adjustable strap clamp fastener and a mounting bracket. The mounting bracket is fastened at its top to the shroud and at the bottom to the strap clamp. The vent line cap is designed to be easily installed and removed using common hand tools. The vent line cap prevents foreign material from entering the vent line and subjacent plumbing while still allowing air to flow from the vent line as well as preventing rain water from entering sewer system. |
| US09267696B2 |
Integrated membrane dehumidification system
An air temperature and humidity control device is provided including a first heat pump having a compressor, an expansion valve, a condenser, and an evaporator. The first heat pump has a refrigerant circulating there through. A humidity controller includes a first contactor fluidly coupled to the evaporator and condenser. The first contact includes at least one contact module having a porous sidewall that defines an internal space through which a hygroscopic material flows. A first air flow is in communication with the porous sidewall of the first contactor. The device also has a second heat pump including a first polishing coil. The first polishing coil is substantially aligned with and arranged generally downstream from the first contactor relative to the first air flow. |
| US09267691B2 |
Quick disconnect combustion endcover
A clamp assembly for facilitating attachment and removal of a first component to or from a second component includes plural clamp bodies, each having at least two mutually perpendicular surfaces arranged about the first component. A substantially rigid ring is located between one surface of the clamp body and a surface of the first component. At least one fastener is provided for each of the plural clamp bodies, adapted to extend through a respective one of the plural clamp bodies and into the second component. Tooling is provided to allow for simultaneous tightening or loosening of all bolts on a single combustor. |
| US09267688B2 |
Head part of an annular combustion chamber
A head part of an annular combustion chamber for a gas turbine, the head part comprising: an end wall with a passage opening for accommodating a burner, the end wall comprising a back side which faces towards the combustion chamber; a burner collar adapted to fit within the passage opening and receive the burner, the burner collar comprising a protruding portion radially protruding from an outer surface of the burner collar; and a ring member for receiving the protruding portion of the burner collar; wherein the head part of the annular combustion chamber is configured such that in an installed configuration a radially outer portion of the ring member engages with the end wall and a radially inner portion of the ring member receives the protruding portion of the burner collar. |
| US09267685B2 |
Dual stream system and method for producing carbon dioxide
A system for producing carbon dioxide from a process gas that includes a hydrocarbon, the system including a combustion subsystem configured to combust the hydrocarbon and output a combustion effluent, wherein the combustion effluent includes carbon dioxide and water, a first separation subsystem configured to separate a first quantity of carbon dioxide from the combustion effluent, and a second separation subsystem configured to separate a second quantity of carbon dioxide from the combustion effluent. |
| US09267684B2 |
Soil remediation unit
A soil remediation unit that changes the use and purpose of certain commercially available aggregate mixing devices and or pug mills for removing unwanted contaminants from a quantity of contaminated soil aggregate or substrate which includes a canopy and a burner tube attached to the canopy. The burner tube includes an upper securing element and a lower adjustment element. The soil remediation unit also includes a burner supported in a desired position within the burner tube by the upper securing element and the lower adjustment element. |
| US09267680B2 |
Multiple fuel combustion system and method
According to embodiments, a co-fired or multiple fuel combustion system is configured to apply an electric field to a combustion region corresponding to a second fuel that normally suffers from poor combustion and/or high sooting. Application of an AC voltage to the combustion region was found to increase the extent of combustion and significantly reduce soot evolved from the second fuel. |
| US09267677B2 |
Device for generating large volumes of smoke
The present invention relates to a hand held device for producing large volumes of smoke from a smoke producing solution. The design allows for repeated, fast, and lengthy heating of the heating chamber, and thus is an improvement over prior devices which can only be utilized in short bursts. |
| US09267676B2 |
Luminous net for, inter alia, sports equipment, and sports equipment for ball games or the like comprising same
A luminous net, for example for sports equipment made of flexible elongate elements (10) that are contiguous at specific points, wherein at least some (10) of the flexible elements are luminous, and each includes: an elongate sheath (100) which is transparent to light and made of a synthetic material; a series of luminous members (102) distributed in the elongate sheath (100) in at least one row; and a flexible reinforcing cord (101) which is arranged in the sheath (100) and which extends across the entire length thereof, and which is capable of imparting tensile strength to the flexible element (10), the length of the cord in the sheath being equal to the length of the sheath. |
| US09267672B2 |
Dual control luminaire
Disclosed is a luminaire including a luminaire housing, a lamp or ballast disposed at least partially within the luminaire housing, a first control input disposed at least partially internal to or integral with the luminaire housing, a second control input disposed external to the luminaire housing, and connection components configured to associate the lamp or ballast with the first control input and the second control input. |
| US09267668B2 |
Fixtures for large area directional and isotropic solid state lighting panels
Reflector designs for a large area panel light source create induced draft cooling means adjacent to the panel light source. The panel light source has a wavelength conversion element on a solid state light source for emitting light of a first and second wavelength to form a broader emission spectrum of light from the panel light source. |
| US09267660B1 |
Furnishing light
A furnishing light mainly includes a base, inside which provided with an illuminator, a projecting element with a transparent area encircling the illuminator, a lens positioned above the projecting element and a casing with a projecting area for encapsulating both the projecting element and lens. Thereby a light from the illuminator projects a contour of the transparent area to the casing meanwhile refracts through the lens to distribute over the projecting area. |
| US09267659B2 |
Vehicle lamp
A vehicle lamp that includes components structured to be simply coupled to each other. The vehicle lamp includes a light source unit that emits light, a metal plate onto which the light source unit is mounted on a surface thereof and dissipates heat generated from the light source unit, and a fixing plate that is coupled to the metal plate and supports the metal plate. A coupling protrusion is formed on any one of the metal plate and the fixing plate, a coupling groove coupled to the coupling protrusion is formed in the other one of the metal plate and the fixing plate, and the metal plate includes two or more walls that face each other and a connection surface which connects the walls. |
| US09267658B2 |
Integral air vent and lamp assembly
An integral air vent and lamp assembly for a vehicle passenger cabin includes a rotary vent housing and a hub defining an opening centered on a center axis of the vent housing having vent doors which open and close to admit or block airflow into the cabin. A lamp subassembly is disposed within the opening. The lamp subassembly may include a push-button micro-switch and light-emitting diodes (LEDs). A light diffusing lens and LED board may be positioned within a recess of an elongated T-shaped housing, which may include an axial member received by and rotating in conjunction with a gear element. The diffusing lens and LED board may be circumscribed by a bezel. A vehicle includes a power source, a body defining a passenger cabin, an air circulation device configured to move air to the passenger cabin, and the integral air vent and lamp assembly positioned in the passenger cabin. |
| US09267657B2 |
Vehicular lighting assemblies providing uniform illumination through LED source location and spacing control
A vehicular lighting assembly is provided that includes a chamber defined by isotropically luminant back and side surfaces, a depth, and a front surface having a lens aperture. The lighting assembly also includes LED sources on the back surface. In addition, each source has a beam angle≧a light exit angle, and is spaced from the other sources≦the depth divided by a predetermined factor between approximately 1.0 and 2.5. In certain aspects, the front surface also includes a diffuser. In other aspects, each source is spaced from the other sources≦the depth divided by a predetermined factor of approximately 2.5 or less. |
| US09267656B2 |
Head lamp for vehicle
A head lamp for a vehicle is provided. In particular, the head lamp includes a first light source, a first reflector configured to reflect light generated from the first light source, a first optical shield disposed at a front side of the first light source and configured to block a portion of the light, a second optical shield disposed at the front side of the first light source and configured to block another portion of the light so as to form a first shaded line on a front light distribution pattern of the vehicle; and a first lens configured to emit the incident light toward the front side. |
| US09267653B2 |
Light fixture with communication or power connector
A light fixture includes a fixture body, a shroud, and a power or communication receptacle is provided. The fixture body is configured to support a light emitter. Additionally, the shroud is disposed on the fixture body and is arranged to at least partially conceal the light emitter. The power or communication receptacle is disposed on the fixture body in a location at least partially concealed by the shroud. |
| US09267651B2 |
Christmas light apparatus and lamp base thereof
A Christmas light apparatus has a holder, multiple electrode pads, a lamp base and an LED lamp. The electrode pads are mounted on an inner surface of the holder. The lamp base is mounted in the holder and has a top body and a bottom body. The top body has a top hole. The bottom body has multiple bottom grooves communicating with the top hole of the top body. The LED lamp is mounted on the top body and has multiple pins. The pins pass through the bottom body and are respectively bent upward along the bottom grooves of the bottom body. To assemble the Christmas light apparatus is easy and fast. The pins are respectively and tightly pressed between the lamp base and the electrode pads, such that the pins can hardly be disconnected from the electrode pads. |
| US09267647B2 |
Hot melt level sensor and sensor housing
An adhesive melting system comprises a melter, an ultrasonic sensor, and a feed system. The melter contains and melts adhesive. The ultrasonic sensor is positioned to sense a level of adhesive in the melter. The feed system supplies unmelted adhesive to the melter as a function of the sensed level of adhesive in the melter. |
| US09267644B2 |
Power tool safety mechanisms
A sensing mechanism (12) for detecting user contact with an active portion (26) of the power tool (10) is provided. In addition, a safety mechanism (14) for preventing prolonged user contact with the active portion (26) of a power tool (10) is provided. The safety mechanism (14) is configured to actuate upon receipt of a signal from the sensing mechanism (12). According to a first aspect, the safety mechanism (14) is arranged to rapidly displace the active portion (26) away from a user extremity. Alternatively, according to a second aspect, the safety mechanism (14) is arranged to rapidly urge an extremity of the user away from the active portion (26) of the power tool (10). |
| US09267639B2 |
Lift mechanism systems and methods
The invention includes a display positioning assembly comprising a support, a display supported by the support, and a balance mechanism carried by the display and operatively connected to the support. The invention also includes an article for selectively exposing a display comprising a generally planar support surface having a first side and a second side opposite the first side. A balance mechanism operatively connected to a display may be positionable between a storage position proximate the first side of the generally planar support surface and an exposed position proximate the second side of the generally planar support surface. The invention also includes an assembly for arresting the free fall of an object. The assembly may comprise an outer slide in sliding or rolling engagement with an inner slide, and a brake comprising at least one pivot member may be coupled to the inner slide. |
| US09267635B2 |
Pipeline liner monitoring system
A pipeline monitoring system and systems and methods of producing the same. A system for producing a liner for a pipe can comprise a source of material to form a body of the liner and a source of material to form a monitoring sensor in the liner. The system may further comprise a device that receives the material to form the body of the liner and the material to form the monitoring sensor in the liner and produces the body of the liner with the monitoring sensor embedded within the body of the liner. |
| US09267631B2 |
Connector
The disclosure provides a connector for connecting to an end of a tube. The connector may include a hollow connector body having an opening for receiving the end of the tube. The connector may further include a gripping mechanism for gripping the tube to hold it against retraction and a sealing mechanism for forming a seal between the tube and the connector body. The connector body may be formed from an opaque material and include a window therein. The window may be formed from a transparent material through which an end of the tube can be seen when the tube is correctly located within the connector. |
| US09267622B2 |
Electrical cable holder
An electrical cable holder has a holder body having a fixing device (for example, anchor part) and a fastening part positioned beneath the fixing device (for example, anchor part) for provisionally placing an electrical cable (for example, power transmission cable); and a movable arm movably supported on the holder body for fastening the electrical cable (for example, power transmission cable) provisionally placed in the fastening part, between the movable arm and the fastening part. A lock device for locking the movable arm in a fastening state, in which the electrical cable (for example, power transmission cable) is fastened by the fastening part, is provided between the movable arm and the fastening part. A stationary device for maintaining a non-fastening state is provided between the holder body and the movable arm. |
| US09267621B2 |
Cable holder
A cable holder for a cable includes a guide section for guiding the cable that can be pivoted in sections for a change in direction of a run of the cable. |
| US09267618B2 |
Microvalve device and method of manufacturing the same
A microvalve device comprises: a first substrate having a first surface, where at least one fluidic channel is formed into the first surface of the first substrate; and at least one valve seat is formed in the fluidic channel; a second substrate having a second surface, the second substrate comprising at least one air channel and at least one air chamber formed on the second surface of the second substrate, where the air chamber is connected to the air channel; and an elastic film interposed between the first substrate and the second substrate, where an upper portion of the valve seat is lower than the first surface of the first substrate. |
| US09267616B2 |
Method for controlling valves during the thermocyclization of a substance for the purpose of polymer chain reaction (PCR) and associated arrangement
At least one embodiment of the invention relates to an arrangement for thermocyclization of a substance. At least one embodiment of the invention also relates to a method for the thermocyclization of a substance, including: the controllable valves automatically close the PCR chamber after the test fluid has been introduced into the PCR-chamber, and the properties for the memory metal or bimetal elements are used for closing the valves when a predetermined temperature has been exceeded. As a result, the mechanical actuator, which is used to actuate the valves, is thermally coupled to the heating/cooling element in order to carry out the thermocyclization. |
| US09267609B2 |
Valve having a sensor to determine an angle of rotation of a valve flap
A valve having a housing, a flap rotatably arranged in the housing and connected to a drive shaft mounted in the housing, an electric motor for driving the drive shaft, having a gearing which has at least one toothed segment and which is arranged between the electric motor and the drive shaft, and a sensor, which has a magnet, for determining the angle of rotation of the flap. The toothed segment has at least two detent hooks that engage around the magnet. Furthermore, at least one spring element is provided which preloads the magnet against the detent hooks. |
| US09267608B2 |
Valve with a delayed closing
Delayed valve of the type comprising a water entrance (2), a water exit (3), a plunger (6) supporting a shutter (5) and comprising a tubular tail (8) passing through the seat (4) in a sealed manner and comprising, at least, an opening (9) through which water can penetrate when the shutter is moved away from its seat and an exit opening (8a), characterized in that the raising of the shutter is controlled by the pressing down of a pressing button (10) the internal end of which is conformed to obturate the exit opening (8a) of the tail (8), said pressing button being submitted to the action of a counter spring (11). |
| US09267605B2 |
Pressure control valve assembly of plasma processing chamber and rapid alternating process
A pressure control valve assembly of a plasma processing chamber in which semiconductor substrates are processed includes a housing having an inlet, an outlet and a conduit extending between the inlet and the outlet, the inlet adapted to be connected to an interior of the plasma processing chamber and the outlet adapted to be connected to a vacuum pump which maintains the plasma processing chamber at desired pressure set points during rapid alternating phases of processing a semiconductor substrate in the chamber. A fixed slotted valve plate having a first set of parallel slots therein is fixed in the conduit such that gasses withdrawn from the chamber into the conduit pass through the first set of parallel slots. A movable slotted valve plate having a second set of parallel slots therein is movable with respect to the fixed slotted valve plate so as to adjust pressure in the chamber. |
| US09267603B2 |
In line mill assembly with labyrinth seal
The system and method for preventing air leakage from the process side to the bearing side of a mill. The system includes a labyrinth seal ring comprising a series of knives defining first and second labyrinth paths from an air inlet to the process side and the bearing side of the system, respectively. The differences in the two paths such as provided by the number of knives used in each path creates a differential pressure drop which biases air from the air inlet to the process side. The labyrinth seal thus provides a reliable and superior method for reducing the potential for particulate in the process side of the mill from damaging the bearing system. |
| US09267601B2 |
High temperature gas seals
A flexible seal for use in a solid oxide fuel cell stack is formed from a fiber matrix with a plurality of solid particles through tape casting method. The fibers and particles are preferably ceramic and may be formed from alumina or zirconia. The seal may be formed by forming a slurry of fibers, particles, a binder and a non-aqueous solvent, tape casting the slurry, drying the tape seal, die-cutting, prior to installation in the fuel cell stack. |
| US09267596B2 |
Axle assembly with differential lubrication
An axle assembly having a differential and a reservoir module disposed in a housing. The reservoir module may receive a lubricant and provide lubricant to a differential bearing. |
| US09267594B2 |
Controlled relative radius of curvature forged bevel gears with involute section
Mating bevel gears generally include a pinion gear having a body that rotates about an axis and a side gear having a body that rotates about an axis that intersects the axis of the pinion gear. Pinion gear teeth of the pinion gear have a side that defines a curvature with an involute section through which a pitch line extends and a parabolic shape between the pinion gear teeth. Side gear teeth of the side gear have a side that defines a curvature with an involute section through which a pitch line extends and a parabolic shape between the side gear teeth. The curvatures on the pinion and the side gear teeth cooperatively define a controlled relative radius of curvature section except where the involute sections are located. The controlled relative radius of curvature section defines a sum of values of radius of curvature at a point of contact between the curvatures of the pinion gear teeth and the side gear teeth. The sum has a constant or decreasing value. |
| US09267591B2 |
Torque converter stator structure
Among first and second stators of a torque converter supported on a fixed part by a one-way clutch corresponding to the stators, the number of second stator blades of the second stator on the downstream side in the direction of flow of oils larger than the number of first blades of the first stator on the upstream side, and the maximum value t2 for blade thickness of the second stator blade is smaller than the minimum value t1 for blade thickness of the first stator blade. Therefore, it is possible to ensure that there is a sufficient gap (β) between a trailing edge of the first stator blade and a leading of the second stator blade, thus preventing the flow of oil from being stopped by the gap (β), and it is possible to align effectively the flow of oil by means of the second stator blades. |
| US09267589B2 |
Multi-shaft drive device
The present invention obtains a multi-shaft drive device that can protect a rack and pinion from operative load input to a selector. The multi-shaft drive device is provided with: an input-side bevel gear (52) to which motor power is transmitted; and an output-side bevel gear (34) that transmits the power transmitted from the input-side bevel gear (52) to a movable mechanism. The multi-shaft drive device is further provided with: a selector (10) that connects/disconnects the meshing of the output-side bevel gear (34) and the input-side bevel gear (52); and a rotating shaft (16) that causes the selector (10) to slide via a rack (18) and pinion (17). Furthermore, the angle of rotation of the rotating shaft (16) is regulated by the end of the pinion (17) contacting a vertical wall (1A) of a case (1). |
| US09267582B2 |
System and method for multiplexing gear engagement control and providing fault protection in a toroidal traction drive automatic transmission
An apparatus for multiplexing gear engagement control in an automatic transmission is provided. At least two friction engagement devices are configured to selectively engage and disengage a different gear ratio of the transmission. A trim system is configured to selectively supply engagement and disengagement pressures to at least one fluid passageway. A first control valve is fluidly coupled directly to the at least one fluid passageway and directly to each of the at least two friction engagement devices. The first control valve is configured to selectively route the engagement and disengagement pressures through the first control valve directly to the at least two friction devices. |
| US09267581B2 |
Continuously variable transmission
A driver pulley assembly for a continuously variable transmission (CVT) includes a roller weight guide, having an inner and outer periphery, adapted to be mounted on the main shaft of the CVT. A plurality of ramp windows extend radially along the roller weight guide. A pair of guide rails extend along opposite edges of each ramp window. A plurality of roller weights, mounted on the pair of guide rails, is adapted to move along the pair of guide rails in a radial direction of the roller weight guide. A ramp structure, coinciding with the ramp window, extends in the radial direction of the roller weight guide and abuts the plurality of roller weights. The roller weighs are adapted to move radially outwards along the ramp structure with increasing rotational speed of the roller weight guide. The ramp structures have ramp profiles. CVT systems and vehicles including the driver pulley assembly are also included. |
| US09267580B2 |
Continuously variable transmission drive pulley
A drive pulley for a continuously variable transmission includes a fixed sheave and a movable sheave rotationally fixed relative to the fixed sheave. A housing is axially and rotationally fixed relative to the fixed sheave. At least one centrifugal actuator includes an arm pivotally connected to one of the movable sheave and the housing of the fixed sheave at a first pivot axis. The arm pivots away from the one of the movable sheave and the housing about the first pivot axis as a speed of rotation of the drive pulley increases and pushes against another one of the movable sheave and the housing thereby moving the movable sheave axially toward the fixed sheave. The arm is movable relative to the first pivot axis by pivoting the at least one arm about a second pivot axis. The second pivot axis is offset from the first pivot axis. |
| US09267576B2 |
Multi-speed gearbox
Multi-stage transmission comprises four planetary gear sets, rotatable shafts and six shift elements. Sun of first set is connected to fifth shaft which is connectable, via first clutch, to drive shaft and is couplable, via third brake, to housing. Drive shaft is connectable, via second clutch, to seventh shaft which is connectable to carrier of fourth set and ring of third set and is connectable, via third clutch, to eighth shaft which is connected to sun of second. Sixth shaft is connected to ring of first set, carrier of second set and ring of fourth set. Third shaft is connected to sun of third set and sun of fourth set and can be coupled, via first brake, to housing. Fourth shaft is connected to carrier of first set and ring of second set and is couplable, via second brake, to housing. Drive shaft is connected to carrier of third set. |
| US09267571B2 |
Cable connector assembly
A cable connector assembly comprises a first stop, a second stop, and a connector. The first stop is configured and arranged to receive a first end of a cable, and the second stop is configured and arranged to receive a second end of the cable. The connector is configured and arranged to pivotally interconnect the first stop and the second stop. |
| US09267567B2 |
Switchable engine mount and method for operation thereof
A switchable engine mount is provided. The switchable engine mount includes an end plate including one or more openings in fluidic communication with a hydraulic source and a channel plate coupled to the end plate and including one or more hydraulic flow openings. The switchable engine mount further includes a decoupler including at least one decoupler plate at least partially enclosed by the channel plate and the end plate and a switching plate positioned adjacent to the decoupler and configured to axially actuate the decoupler in response to reception of an input force from an actuator, the input force non-parallel to the axially actuation. |
| US09267562B2 |
Brake chamber stroke indicator system and method
A brake chamber stroke indicator system for a brake system including a brake air chamber includes an indicator rod or a string pot gauge including a housing with an indicator rotatably positioned within the housing. A string has a first end attached to the indicator of the string pot gauge. A spring urges the indicator to rotate in a first direction whereby the string is retracted into the housing. The second end of the string is attached to a brake push rod or a pressure plate. The indicator rod is mounted by a base onto a pressure plate. |
| US09267560B2 |
Bicycle disc brake rotor assembly and bicycle disc brake rotor
A bicycle disc brake rotor assembly comprises a hub axle, a hub shell, a disc brake rotor, and a positioning mechanism. The hub axle extends in an axial direction. The hub shell is configured to rotate around the hub axle. The disc brake rotor is configured to be adjustably attached to the hub shell in the axial direction. The positioning mechanism is configured to position the disc brake rotor in the axial direction at an adjusted position. |
| US09267556B2 |
Apparatus and method for determining engine clutch transfer torque of environmentally-friendly vehicle
An engine clutch transfer torque determining apparatus of a vehicle includes: a power source including an engine and a driving motor; an engine clutch that is located between the engine and the driving motor to selectively connect the engine to the driving motor; and a vehicle controller that controls release or engagement of the engine clutch to implement a driving mode, wherein the vehicle controller releases a clutch hydraulic pressure in the engine clutch when a running state of the vehicle satisfies a transfer torque determining advancing condition, controls a speed of the motor and a speed of the engine while maintaining a speed difference between the motor and the engine in a predetermined relative speed range, and determines a transfer torque of the engine clutch based on a clutch hydraulic pressure and a clutch input torque when the engine clutch slips. |
| US09267552B2 |
Clutched driven device and associated clutch mechanism
A driven accessory (10) is provided that includes a first rotary clutch portion (50), a second rotary clutch portion (52), a wrap spring (56) and an actuator (60). The wrap spring (56) is configured to transmit rotary power between the first and second rotary clutch portions (50, 52). The actuator (60) is selectively operable for generating a drag force that is applied to the wrap spring (56) to control torque transmission through the wrap spring (56). The actuator (60) includes an actuator input member (140), a brake shoe (144) and a motor (142) that is configured to translate the brake shoe (144) axially along the rotary axis (70). The drag force is generated when the motor (142) is operated in a first mode so that transmission of rotary power between the first rotary clutch portion (50) and the second rotary clutch portion (52) is interrupted. |
| US09267549B2 |
Inner race and boot sleeve
An inner race and boot sleeve combination is provided. The inner race has an inner surface with a groove formed therein. The boot sleeve has a groove in an outer surface. A ring is located in both grooves to axially secure the inner race and boot sleeve together. Devices to prevent relatively rotation between the inner race and the boot sleeve are also provided. |
| US09267548B2 |
Inner race and boot sleeve
An inner race and boot sleeve combination is provided. The inner race has an inner surface with a groove formed therein. The boot sleeve has a groove in an outer surface. A ring is located in both grooves to axially secure the inner race and boot sleeve together. Devices to prevent relatively rotation between the inner race and the boot sleeve are also provided. |
| US09267545B2 |
Bearing retaining structure
A bearing retaining structure includes a base, a stator assembly and a bearing. The base has a bearing cup projected from one side thereof, and the bearing cup internally defines a receiving space and has a fixed end connected to the base and an opposite free end. The bearing is disposed in the receiving space of the bearing cup. The stator assembly has an axially extended central opening and a retaining portion radially inward protruded from an inner wall surface of the central opening. The stator assembly is externally mounted around the bearing cup with the retaining portion tightly fitted around the free end of the bearing cup to narrow the receiving space, so that an inner wall surface of the receiving space is in tight contact with an outer wall surface of the bearing, and the bearing is stably retained in the bearing cup. |
| US09267544B2 |
Thrust sliding bearing and mounting structure of a strut-type suspension using the thrust sliding bearing
A thrust sliding bearing 1 includes a synthetic resin-made lower casing 2, a synthetic resin-made upper casing 3 superposed on the lower casing 2, and a synthetic resin-made thrust sliding bearing piece 4 interposed between said upper casing 3 and the lower casing 2. |
| US09267538B2 |
Rolling sliding parts
The finishing process is applied to a surface of a roller 8 constituting a cam follower unit by the barrel finishing. When a position of a highest portion out of fine roughnesses existing on the surface is assumed as an outermost surface position, an occupation ratio of a sectional area of a virtual plane in a plane direction at a portion that is positioned at a depth of 2.0 μm from the outermost surface position to an area of an overall surface of a portion that contacts the other member is set to 90% or more. With this configuration, a tough oil film can be formed between the surface of the roller 8 and the other member, and also the improvement of durability of a member such as the roller 8, or the like, which contacts the other member via a rolling contact or a sliding contact, can be achieved at a low cost. |
| US09267537B2 |
Universal tiltable luminaire support
A universal tiltable joint (10) for a lighting fixture (11) includes a first joint portion (12) having an axial joint axis (A), a second joint portion (14) having the axial joint axis, one of the first joint portion and the second joint portion housed co-axially within the other of the first joint portion and the second joint portion, a co-axial gap (60) between the first joint portion and the second joint portion allowing movement at an angle to the axial joint axis, the movement causing at least one of engagement or disengagement of a safety feature (27) on the first joint portion and the second joint portion. |
| US09267534B2 |
Lock nut
The invention provides a lock nut with a nut body which has a threaded section with an internal thread and an adjoining inner annular groove. An annular lock washer made of metal is held in the annular groove. An internal thread corresponding to the nut thread is cut into the inner circumference of the annular washer, and the internal thread of the annular washer is offset axially in relation to the nut thread by a distance which is smaller than a thread pitch of the nut thread. According to the invention, the thickness of the annular washer at the inside diameter thereof is greater than the thickness of the annular washer at the outside diameter to thereof. As a result, the elasticity of the annular lock washer and the holding force of the lock nut can be adjusted. |
| US09267528B2 |
Tapping screw
A tapping screw provides sufficient tightening force even if used with a thin screwed member and tightening target member. The tapping screw (100) includes a first ridge (11) and a second ridge (12) configured to have incomplete threads that are 180° out of phase. The tapping screw (100) includes a first tightening force improvement ridge (13) and a second tightening force improvement ridge (14) that are set so as to be smaller than the outside diameters of complete thread sections of parallel threaded portions of the first ridge (11) and the second ridge (12) but larger than the inside diameter of the prepared hole are provided in each of areas which are 90° out of phase with the first ridge (11) and the second ridge (12), respectively, such that the tightening force improvement ridges bite into the prepared hole when the screw is fully screwed in. |
| US09267527B2 |
Weldless building structures
A building structure including a first building member and a second building member may be connected by a plurality of fasteners, each fastener having a head, a threaded portion having a through hardness of between HRB 70 and HRC 40, a thread-forming portion of at least HRC 50 hardness enabling the fastener to form threads in at least the second steel building member, and a fluted lead portion of at least HRC 50 hardness with a nominal diameter between 70 and 95% of major diameter, such that the fastener is capable of providing a ratio of strip torque to thread-forming torque of at least 3.0 and a ratio of strip torque to drive torque greater than 6.0 when the second steel building member having a thickness of 0.25 inch and the fluted lead portion having at least one diameter within nominal diameter between 80 and 98% of major diameter. |
| US09267525B2 |
Verification arrangement for fastener system
A quarter turn fastener employed to affix a component to a structural base plate includes bar code indicia to verify installation and locking of the fastener. The fastener is positionable in an insertion position relative to the base plate for insertion through a receptacle, and rotatable one quarter turn to releasably secure it, and the component to the base plate. It includes resilient arms to urge an attachment portion of the fastener against the rear surface of the base plate which are configured to obscure at least a portion of the bar code indicia in any position other than the locked position. When rotated to the locked position, the attachment portion is urged against the rear surface of the base plate the resilient arms do not obscure the bar code indicia. Anti-rotation lugs releasably engage the receptacle to releasably latch the fastener in the locked position. |
| US09267524B2 |
Blind fastener
A blind fastener comprising a body (22) and a stem (26), wherein the fastener is installed in a workpiece by applying a pulling force to the bodycausing a bulb to form at a radially expandable section of the body, the stem of the fastener comprising two waisted regions (38, 40) of reduced diameter, such that when the body of the fastener is crimped after assembly with the stem, the body is caused to form a barrel shape, whereby clearance between the body and stem is minimized. |
| US09267517B2 |
Closing actuator for sheet material clamp
A closing actuator for a sheet material clamp has a first threaded orifice in a lower clamping jaw with a threaded interior wall, a second non-threaded orifice formed in an upper clamping jaw which has a retention groove formed around the non-threaded interior wall; and an actuating screw with a retention shoulder formed between the head and the threaded shank, such that the threaded shank mates with the threaded first orifice in the lower clamping jaw and the retention shoulder snaps into the retention groove, thereby capturing the actuating screw in the upper clamping jaw when threaded into the lower clamping jaw. The second orifice may be a slotted or oval shape to allow the actuating screw to pass through the upper jaw at an angle other than perpendicularly to the upper jaw as the jaws assume various angles of relationship to each other during clamp closing and opening. |
| US09267515B2 |
Jet control devices and methods
Examples of a jet control device are described. The jet control device can comprise a jet deflecting member that is configured to intercept and/or collide with a high speed jet emerging from a jet formation location. The interaction of the jet deflecting member and the jet can cause the high speed jet to be dispersed into a plurality of jets with a number of flow directions which may be sideways to an initial direction of the high speed jet. In one embodiment the deflecting member can include a liquid guide formed by injecting a fluid out of an outlet nozzle so that the liquid guide extends longitudinally away from the outlet nozzle. In another embodiment the deflecting member can include an array of solid pellets injected through an outlet in a direction of the emerging high speed jet and configured to collide with the emerging jet thereby deflecting its initial direction. |
| US09267512B2 |
Ram air fan diffuser with perforated side walls
A diffuser for a ram air fan assembly includes a perforated cone, an inlet ring seal, and an outlet ring seal. The perforated cone has a frustoconical shape symmetrical about an axis of the diffuser. The inlet ring seal is attached to, and axially disposed about, a first end of the perforated cone. The inlet ring seal includes a fan housing connection having a cylindrical shape. The outlet ring seal is attached to, and axially disposed about, a second end of the perforated cone. An average external diameter of the second end is greater than an average external diameter of the first end such that the perforated cone extends away from the inlet ring seal and radially outward from the axis of the diffuser. |
| US09267498B2 |
Continuously conveying infusion pump
An infusion pump for continuously conveying a fluid includes an inlet, an outlet, a first piston movably supported in a first chamber connected to the inlet, a second piston movably supported in a second chamber connected to the outlet, and a connecting channel connecting the first chamber to the second chamber. At least one control element, in a first position, connects the inlet to the first chamber and, in a second position, connects the first chamber to the second chamber. A controller acts upon the first piston, the second piston, and the control element so that, when the control element is set in the first position, the first chamber is filled while the second chamber is drained, and when in the second position, the first chamber is drained and the second chamber is filled, wherein a constant discharge at the outlet is maintained at a predefined flow rate. |
| US09267496B2 |
High pressure fuel supply pump with electromagnetic suction valve
To reduce collision noise created by the operation of an electromagnetic suction valve provided on a high pressure fuel supply pump. In the present invention, in order to achieve the above object, the mass of a member which collides by magnetic attractive force is reduced to reduce the noise to be generated. The thus configured present invention provides the following advantageous effects. The noise generated when a core and an anchor collide with each other by magnetic attractive force depends on the magnitude of the kinetic energy of a moving element. The kinetic energy to be consumed in the collision is only the kinetic energy of the anchor. The kinetic energy of a rod, being absorbed by a spring, does not contribute to the noise; thus, the energy when the anchor and the core collide with each other can be reduced, whereby the noise to be created can be reduced. |
| US09267494B2 |
Shape memory alloy based linear actuator assembly
A linear motion device includes a rod extending along a longitudinal axis, and a plurality of actuator units. Each of the plurality of actuator units includes at least one Shape Memory Alloy (SMA) element that is attached to a coupling mechanism. The at least one SMA element of each if the plurality of actuator units moves the coupling mechanism along the longitudinal axis, and into grasping engagement with the rod. Each actuator unit moves the rod a unit movement distance along the longitudinal axis in response to a control signal. The plurality of actuator units are actuated repeatedly in a cyclic order to move the rod in a continuous linear motion a distance greater than the unit movement distance of each of the plurality of actuator units. |
| US09267485B2 |
System and method for control of a transition between SI and HCCI combustion modes
In one embodiment a method of controlling an engine system includes providing a first cylinder with a first inlet valve, a first outlet valve, and a first throttle, controlling the first inlet and the first outlet valve in accordance with an SI valve lift profile, activating a first spark in the first cylinder while controlling the first inlet and the first outlet valve in accordance with the SI valve lift profile, controlling the first inlet and the first outlet valve in accordance with an HCCI valve lift profile, activating a second spark in the first cylinder while controlling the first inlet and the first outlet valve in accordance with the HCCI valve lift profile, and controlling the SOI timing of the first throttle in an HCCI SOI mode while controlling the first inlet valve and the first outlet valve in the HCCI valve lift profile after activating the second spark. |
| US09267484B2 |
Method and system for pre-ignition control
Methods and systems are provided for pre-ignition control. A pre-ignition mitigating enrichment is deactivated in response to a tip-out but reactivated in response to a subsequent tip-in. By preemptively enriching the engine, repeated pre-ignition due at subsequent tip-ins is reduced. |
| US09267478B2 |
Starter motor with multiple position mounting device and method thereof
An engine starter including a motor, an electromagnetic switch, an auxiliary switch, a housing, and a mounting member for the auxiliary switch. The mounting member is disposed at the housing between the housing and the motor and electromagnetic switch. The mounting member includes a flange including a tab to mount the auxiliary switch. |
| US09267470B2 |
Fuel vapor processing apparatus
A fuel vapor processing apparatus may include a container including an atmospheric introduction portion, through which the atmospheric air can be introduce into the container. An adsorption material may be contained in the container and configured to adsorb feel vapor and to allow the adsorbed fuel vapor to be desorbed as the atmospheric air introduced into the container flows through the adsorption material. A heater may directly or indirectly heat a part of the adsorption material located at an upstream end with respect to the flow of the atmospheric air. |
| US09267467B2 |
Systems and methods for a two-valve non-integrated refueling canister only system
A system for a vehicle, comprising: a tank pressure control valve coupled in a first conduit between a fuel tank and a fuel vapor canister; a refueling valve coupled in a second, different, conduit between the fuel tank and the fuel vapor canister, the second conduit in parallel to the first conduit. In this way, two smaller, less complex valves may be utilized to control fuel tank vapor purging and fuel tank depressurization during refueling. This in turn may lower system cost and increase system functionality. |
| US09267466B2 |
Cooler arrangement
A cooler arrangement for connection to an exhaust gas manifold or to an exhaust gas outlet of an engine block of an internal combustion machine includes an exhaust gas cooler comprising at least one exhaust gas duct and a coolant jacket. The exhaust gas cooler is configured to be mounted at the engine block or at the exhaust gas manifold. An exhaust gas recirculation valve is configured to regulate an exhaust gas flow. An actuator is disposed on a side of the exhaust gas recirculation valve opposite the exhaust gas cooler. The actuator is configured to actuate the exhaust gas recirculation valve. A coolant duct segment is arranged between the exhaust gas manifold or the engine block and the actuator. The coolant duct segment is fluidically connected to the coolant jacket. |
| US09267463B2 |
Gas turbine engine systems involving variable nozzles with flexible panels
A flexible panel assembly for a gas turbine engine selectively exhibits a range of positions to regulate exhaust of the engine. |
| US09267461B2 |
Wire for I-shape oil rings and producing method of the same
Provided is a wire rod for an I-type oil ring, which includes right and left rail portions and a web portion connecting the rail portions, which has an oil hole or a molten through hole formed in the web portion, and which has a circumscribing circle diameter of 10 mm or less in its transverse contour. The molten through hole has such a remolten portion formed on its exit side as encloses the exit of the molten through hole. The remolten portion exceeds such a molten portion in the transverse section along the center of the molten through hole as is formed in the molten through hole, and is formed to have 200 μm or less from the outer circumference of the molten through hole and 100 μm or less in the depth direction of the molten through hole. |
| US09267460B2 |
System and method for estimating high-pressure fuel leakage in a common rail fuel system
A system and method for measuring fuel pressure decreases in a fuel accumulator of an internal combustion engine is provided. The system includes the ability to stop a fuel flow to a fuel accumulator of the engine. Pressure signals are transmitted to a control system of the engine until the fuel pressure in the fuel accumulator drops by a predetermined amount, at which time fuel flow is re-enabled. The pressure signals are then analyzed to determine the amount or quantity of fuel delivered by each fuel injector. The system and method maintain engine and emissions performance by limiting the amount of fuel pressure decrease in the fuel accumulator. |
| US09267459B2 |
Fuel-injector-replacement determining device
A fuel-injector-replacement device obtains a learning value of characteristic data of an injector while an engine is running. The learning value stored in an ECU is updated into the learning value. When the engine is stopped, the characteristic data stored in an INJ-EEPROM are updated into the characteristic data stored in the ECU. When the engine is started, it is determined whether the characteristic data stored in the ECU agrees with the characteristic data stored in the INJ-EEPROM. When these data do not agree with each other, it is determined that the fuel-injector is improperly replaced without updating the characteristic data stored in the ECU. |
| US09267458B2 |
Control apparatus for general purpose engine
A general purpose engine control apparatus can detect misfire occurrence with high accuracy, while reducing adaptation man hours of misfire determination. The apparatus includes a first air/fuel ratio determiner to make a rich/lean determination, an injection amount corrector to calculate a corrected injection amount corresponding to a stoichiometric air/fuel ratio, an injection controller to supply fuel to the engine so as to match the corrected injection amount, a second air/fuel ratio determiner to make a rich/lean determination based on a comparison of the O2 sensor output with a rich and a lean determination voltage, a rich/lean period calculator to calculate a rich/lean period according to the determination of the second air/fuel ratio determiner, and a misfire determiner to determine the presence or absence of a misfire based on the rich/lean period. The injection controller stops fuel injection to the engine in the presence of a misfire. |
| US09267454B2 |
Drive train slip for vibration mitigation during skip fire operation
A variety of methods and devices for mitigating power train vibration during skip fire operation of an engine are described. In one aspect, the slip of a drive train component (such as a torque converter clutch) is based at least in part upon a skip fire characteristic (such as firing fraction, selected firing sequence/pattern, etc.) during skip fire operation of an engine. The modulation of the drive train component slip can also be varied as a function of one or more engine operating parameters such as engine speed and/or a parameter indicative of the output of fired cylinders (such as mass air charge). |
| US09267453B2 |
Learning of EGR valve lift and EGR valve flow transfer function
Methods and systems are provided for improving accuracy of delta pressure over valve (DPOV) based EGR flow measurement during low valve lift conditions by learning errors in EGR valve lift and/or EGR valve flow transfer function. |
| US09267448B2 |
Vehicle travel control device
A running control device of a vehicle includes an engine with a plurality of cylinders, a clutch connecting/disconnecting a power transmission path between the engine and wheels, a fuel pump transferring fuel toward an injector, and a fuel pressure control device controlling a fuel pressure in a transfer path of the fuel. The running control device of a vehicle performs a neutral inertia running mode performed with the power transmission path between the engine and the wheels disconnected, and a cylinder resting inertia running mode performed by resting at least a part of the cylinders of the engine with the power transmission path between the engine and the wheels connected, the fuel pressure during the neutral inertia running mode being made higher than the fuel pressure during the cylinder resting inertia running mode. |
| US09267444B2 |
Sealing arrangement for a control device of an internal combustion engine
A sealing arrangement for a control device of an internal combustion engine includes a housing. A channel is formed in the housing. The channel has a gas flow therethrough. A control member controls a flow of the gas in the channel. The control member is arranged on a shaft. A bearing supports the shaft in a bearing bore of the housing. A vent bore extends in the housing from an inner wall of the channel on an inlet side of the control member to a rear side, facing outward from the channel, of the bearing arranged in the housing, and into the bearing bore. A first groove is formed in the shaft behind the bearing. The first groove is configured so as to be circumferential when seen from the channel. The first groove is surrounded radially by a sealing device which is configured to cooperate with the first groove. |
| US09267429B2 |
Emission reduction from mobile sources by on-board carbon dioxide conversion to fuel
An apparatus and process for reducing vehicle emissions by converting exhaust gases to hydrocarbon fuel. The apparatus and process supplement conventional emission control techniques to further reduce vehicle emissions of harmful substances. The apparatus includes a heat exchanger to extract thermal energy from exhaust gases of a combustion engine that powers propulsion of a vehicle, a membrane separator to separate water and carbon dioxide from the exhaust gases, and a catalytic reactor comprising a nano catalyst. The catalytic reactor receives the water and the carbon dioxide from the membrane separator, contains a reaction of the water and the carbon dioxide that produces hydrocarbon fuel and is facilitated by the nano catalyst, and uses the thermal energy from the heat exchanger to stimulate the reaction. The catalytic reactor is contained within a body of the heat exchanger to facilitate the transfer of thermal energy. |
| US09267423B2 |
Methods and systems for increasing airflow through a charge air cooler to decrease charge air cooler condensate
Methods and systems are provided for increasing airflow through a charge air cooler (CAC) in order to purge condensate from the CAC. In one example, a method includes increasing airflow through the CAC while maintaining torque by selectively deactivating one or more engine cylinders and increasing boost. The number of deactivated cylinders may be based on an amount of condensate within the CAC. |
| US09267421B2 |
Combustion chamber structure for engine
The axial line of an intake valve is inclined, and a gap between a piston crown surface and a valve head of the intake valve expands in accordance with the approach of the crankshaft axis. A relationship of G2>G1 is fulfilled, where G1 stands for a minimum gap between the lower surface of the cylinder head that is positioned between the intake valve and the exhaust valve facing the intake valve, with the crankshaft axis being interposed therebetween, and the piston crown surface in a top dead center, and G2 stands for a gap at a position that is the closest to the crankshaft axis, from among the gaps between the lower surface of the valve head of the intake valve and the piston crown surface at a center timing of a valve overlap period in which the intake valve and the exhaust valve are both open. |
| US09267420B2 |
Engine cooling control device
An engine cooling control device 100 includes: a housing portion 11A that has passages Pain, PAout1 and PA2; a rotor 12 that is provided in an intermediate portion M and has a rotation center at a position where at least two of distances between openings of the passages PAin, PAout1 and PAout2 opening toward the intermediate portion M and the rotation center are different from each other; a sealing function portion 13A provided between the housing portion 11A and the rotor 12; an elastic member 14 that is provided between the rotor 12 and the sealing function portion 13A and individually biases the sealing function portion 13A toward each opening of the passages PAin, PAout1 and PAout2 with respect to different phases of the rotor 12. |
| US09267417B2 |
Diffuser plate
A diffuser plate for a vehicle exhaust system comprises a body having a primary opening and a plurality of secondary openings circumferentially spaced apart from each other about the primary opening. In one example, the diffuser plate is positioned between an exhaust manifold and a catalytic converter. Exhaust gas from the exhaust manifold flows through the primary and secondary openings in the diffuser plate to provide a thorough mixed flow that is evenly distributed across an inlet to a catalyst substrate, and also enable an oxygen sensor to accurately measure engine cylinder exhaust gas chemistry. |
| US09267414B2 |
Waste heat recovery system and method of operating the same
A waste heat recovery system includes a hot gas stream flow path, a pump, an expander, a first working fluid flow path fluidly connecting a pump outlet and an expander inlet, a second working fluid flow path fluidly connecting an expander outlet and a pump inlet, a first heat exchange section that transfers heat from the hot gas stream to working fluid traveling along the first working fluid flow path, a second heat exchange that transfers heat from the hot gas stream to working fluid traveling along the first working fluid flow path between the pump and the first heat exchange section, and a third working fluid flow path fluidly connecting a first point of the first working fluid path to a second point of the second working fluid path to permit at least a portion of the working fluid to bypass the first heat exchange section and the expander. |
| US09267413B2 |
Exhaust system for an agricultural vehicle
An exhaust system for an agricultural vehicle is provided that includes a mixer configured to receive a spray of diesel exhaust fluid along a longitudinal axis of the mixer and an exhaust flow along a direction cross-wise to the longitudinal axis of the mixer. Additionally, the mixer is configured to mix the diesel exhaust fluid with the exhaust gas. Furthermore, the mixer is configured to discharge the exhaust gas along the longitudinal axis of the mixer. |
| US09267412B2 |
Exhaust aftertreatement system with catalytic deactivation monitoring
A system includes a controller. The controller is configured to monitor a catalytic activity within an ASC assembly that converts ammonia (NH3) within a fluid received from a three-way catalyst (TWC) assembly into nitrogen (N2) to determine whether the catalytic activity in the ASC assembly has aged. The controller is configured to adjust a temperature of the fluid flowing into an inlet of the ASC assembly by controlling an amount of oxidant injected via an oxidant injection system into the fluid upstream of the inlet of the ASC assembly based on a determination that the catalytic activity in the ASC assembly has aged. |
| US09267410B2 |
Injector cooling apparatus
A cooling system for an injector tip for a diesel emission fluid (DEF) injection system is disclosed. The system uses a heat sink, such as a head for a regeneration system, to vaporize cooling fluid, in combination with a phase separation tank, to force cooling fluid backward through a cooling loop thereby allowing cooling of an injector tip following engine shutdown in a “hot” shutdown situation. |
| US09267406B2 |
Clean burn muffler packing with stitched fiberglass envelope
A muffler for a motor vehicle has a muffler housing with a packing void into which an envelope containing a loose fill material is installed during assembly. The envelope contains elongated strands of continuous strand fiberglass, woven as a fiberglass mesh fabric, and having a thin organic polymer coating to reduce sliding and/or being formed with a Leno or gauze weave structure. The envelope is joined at one or more stitched seams, preferably with cotton thread, to enclose a volume. The volume is packed with uncoated continuous strand fiberglass roving, filling the volume to complement the packing void. The cotton thread and the thin polymer coating are consumable by hot gas in the exhaust path, but produce minimal smoke and odor due to their compositions and the small proportion of the packing volume and surface area that the consumable portions occupy. |
| US09267405B2 |
Control housing cover for an internal combustion engine
A control housing cover for an internal combustion engine includes an engine block cover portion having a plurality of apertures, an oil separator for blow-by gases integrated into the control housing cover, an engine support plate operable for securing supporting the internal combustion engine in place and wherein the oil separator is arranged neighboring the engine support plate. |
| US09267401B2 |
Valve timing controller
A valve timing controller includes a driving-side rotary member, a driven-side rotary member, an advancing chamber and a retarding chamber formed as a fluid pressure chamber is partitioned by a partitioning portion provided on an outer circumferential side of the driven-side rotary member, and a phase controlling section. The driven-side rotary member includes an advancing passage communicated to the advancing chamber and a retarding passage communicated to the retarding chamber. The driving-side rotary member is formed of an aluminum-based material. The driven-side rotary member integrally includes an outer circumferential member having the partitioning portion and formed of an aluminum-based material, and an inner circumferential member constituting an inner circumferential side of the outer circumferential member and formed of an iron-based material. |
| US09267398B2 |
Variable valve timing control device of internal combustion engine
When an intermediate lock by an intermediate lock mechanism is released, one of two lock keys, which restricts a shift in a direction opposite to a direction that valve timing of an intake valve has been controlled by controlling the valve timing of the intake valve to a phase-advance side with respect to an intermediate lock position, is pulled out of an engaging recessed portion. Thereafter, the other of the two lock keys is pulled out of an engaging recessed portion by controlling the valve timing of the intake valve to a phase-retard side with respect to the intermediate lock position. Therefore, the intermediate lock by the intermediate lock mechanism can be released, while avoiding the lock keys from being pushed against the respective engaging recessed portions. |
| US09267396B2 |
Rocker arm assembly and components therefor
A method of precision manufacture of an outer arm of a rocker arm assembly is performed by determining structures of a rough outer arm that would require precision processing and locations to support the structures as they are processed. Starting with at least one structure requiring precision processing, locations on the outer arm close to the structure to hold the outer arm during processing are determined that would cause minimal distortion of the outer arm during processing. The outer arm is then provided with clamping lobes at these locations. The clamping lobes of the outer arm are clamping into a fixture for manufacturing. The slider pad may now be precision ground while the outer arm is clamped in the fixture with minimal risk of distortion of the outer arm. |
| US09267395B2 |
Sliding cam system of a reciprocating piston internal combustion engine with sliding grooves and guide elements arranged in an X-shape
A reciprocating piston internal combustion engine having at least one camshaft with at least one sliding cam element with sliding cams and sliding grooves (2 and 2a) intersecting in an X-shape, wherein the sliding cam element with internal teeth (4) is mounted for conjoint rotation but axially movably on a toothed shaft (5), and wherein a guide element is fixed between the sliding grooves (2 and 2a), which guide element has elastically movable switch blades (10 and 10a) that are guided on a rotary joint plate (12) mounted in the intersection area. The engine further has an actuator device with at least one actuator pin (9) movable out of a housing, wherein the actuator device can be mounted on a component of a cylinder head or on the cylinder head of the reciprocating piston internal combustion engine, and, after having moved out, the actuator pin (9) comes into connection with at least one sliding groove (2 or 2a) of the sliding cam element, said guide element being constructed as a C-shaped spring (6) and fixed, at least at the ends thereof, on the toothed shaft (5). |
| US09267394B2 |
Steam turbine plant with variable steam supply
A steam turbine plant has a steam turbine and an inlet steam collection line with an inlet steam collection line segment is provided. The inlet steam collection line supplies a steam consumer and is introduced into outlet steam flow of the steam turbine at an inlet steam introduction point of the inlet steam collection line segment. A supply steam device has a switching armature for connecting the supply steam device to the inlet steam collection line segment upstream of the inlet steam introduction point. The armature is triggered and switched such that if outlet steam pressure in the inlet steam collection line segment is lower than target pressure, the inlet steam collection line segment is connected to the supply steam device for conducting steam and disconnected between the armature and the inlet steam introduction point, otherwise the supply steam device is separated from the inlet steam collection line segment. |
| US09267385B2 |
Strip seal and method for designing a strip seal
A strip seal and method of configuration thereof for sealing portions of components of a gas turbine exposed to pressure pulsations. The strip seal has a sealing face that is configured to follow the contours of first portions of the components. The strip seal further has a pressure face that has a sinusoidal curvilinear shape with respect to the sealing face. The pressure face is configured to prevent localized movement of strip seal by configuring pressure face on its first side to contact sealing face at a plurality of points, on its second side to contact second portions of the components at a plurality of points. |
| US09267384B2 |
Flyweight for ram air turbine
A flyweight for use in a ram air turbine has a body with a circumferentially enlarged portion extending between flat sides spaced by an angle of between 45 degrees and 150 degrees. A pivot point is defined by a bore at a circumferentially intermediate point in the body, and in a relatively thin inner portion. The relatively thin inner portion extends beyond the pivot point to an end that will be radially inward when the flyweight is mounted in a ram air turbine. A governor, a ram air turbine and a method are also described. |
| US09267383B2 |
Turbine airfoil
A turbine airfoil includes an airfoil body with a leading edge, trailing edge, and an exterior surface including a suction side and a pressure side located opposite to the suction side. The exterior surface shows away from the interior of the airfoil body. A thermal barrier coating system is present on the exterior surface of the airfoil body in a coated surface region. The airfoil also includes an uncoated surface region where a thermal barrier coating system is not present. The uncoated region extends on the suction side of the exterior surface from the trailing edge towards the leading edge to a boundary line between the coated surface region and the uncoated surface region, wherein the boundary line is located on the suction side between the leading edge and the trailing edge. The airfoil body also includes a step in the exterior surface extending along the boundary line. |
| US09267380B2 |
Airfoil including loose damper
An airfoil includes an airfoil body that has a leading edge and a trailing edge and a first sidewall and a second sidewall that is spaced apart from the first sidewall. The first sidewall and the second sidewall join the leading edge and the trailing edge and at least partially define a cavity in the airfoil body. A damper member is enclosed in the cavity and is loose within the cavity. |
| US09267376B2 |
Manufacture of cable bolts
A cable bolt comprising a plurality of flexible steel filaments formed around a central member, the cable bolt having spaced bulbous portions along the length of the bolt each bulbous portion defining a cavity containing a segmented ring that surrounds the central member to engage the filaments of the bulbous portion. |
| US09267374B2 |
Armored face conveyor
An armored face conveyor includes a plurality of line pans positioned adjacent to one another, a plurality of flight bars, and a connecting member. Each line pan includes a race having an outer race face and an inner race face. The plurality of flight bars extend laterally across the line pans and are received by the race. Each flight bar includes an end having an upper guide surface and a lower guide surface. The connecting member extends through the plurality of flight-bars and couples the flight-bars to one another. Lateral movement of any one of the flight-bars that causes the upper guide surface to contact the outer race face substantially simultaneously causes the lower guide surface to contact the inner race face. |
| US09267371B2 |
Oil and gas fracture liquid tracing with oligonucleotides
Methods of tracing fracking liquid in oil or gas bearing formations using plural unique oligonucleotide markers. Method includes pumping the plural volumes of fracking liquid, each marked with a unique oligonucleotide, into the formation, thereby defining plural fracture zones in the formation, and, pumping fluids out of the formation while taking plural fluid samples. Then, analyzing the concentration of the unique oligonucleotides in each of the plural fluid samples, and, calculating the ratio of each of the plural volumes of fracking liquid recovered for each of the plural fluid samples according to the concentration of the unique oligonucleotides present in each of the plural samples. And, then, establishing the quantity of the plural volumes of fracking liquids removed from the plural fracture zones. |
| US09267367B2 |
Method for steam assisted gravity drainage with pressure differential injection
A process for recovering hydrocarbons with steam assisted gravity drainage (SAGD) with pressure differential injection. Methods for producing hydrocarbons in a subterranean formation having at least two well pairs include installing a highest pressure well pair in the subterranean formation; installing a lowest pressure well pair in the subterranean formation; applying a pressure differential across the highest pressure well pair and the lowest pressure well pair; injecting steam into the first injection well to form a first steam chamber; injecting steam into the final injection well to form an adjacent steam chamber; monitoring the steam chambers until they merge into a final steam chamber; ceasing the flow of steam into the first injection well; and injecting steam into the final injection well to maintain the final steam chamber. |
| US09267366B2 |
Apparatus for heating hydrocarbon resources with magnetic radiator and related methods
An apparatus is for heating hydrocarbon resources in a subterranean formation having a wellbore therein. The apparatus includes an RF source, and a magnetic field radiator including a ferromagnetic body having an aboveground portion and a belowground portion coupled thereto. The magnetic field radiator includes a conductive wire coil surrounding the aboveground portion and coupled to the RF source so that an RF current through the conductive wire coil magnetizes the ferromagnetic body and generates a magnetic field from the belowground portion to heat the hydrocarbon resources. |
| US09267361B2 |
Casing window assembly
A casing window assembly for completion of a lateral wellbore. The casing window assembly includes a tubular casing sleeve with a casing window and an inner sleeve releasably secured within the casing sleeve at a pre-released position adjacent the casing window. |
| US09267357B2 |
Multi-component diffuser assembly
A diffuser assembly has pairs of split rings rotationally locked to each other in an alternating array with other pairs of split rings where adjacent pairs are responsive to pressure differential to be biased toward a sliding sleeve or the surrounding housing in an alternating pattern. The split rings are made to have an interference initial fit to the sleeve or housing and the splits on adjacent rings are offset while a relation of a projection to a depression between adjacent rings prevents relative rotation to keep the desired circumferential offset in the splits between adjacent rings. End tapers can bias adjacent pairs in opposed directions responsive to applied differential pressure. The rings are preferably metallic and can have a coating to facilitate relative sliding and enhance durability. |
| US09267356B2 |
Smart downhole control
A downhole control system can include a pair of drive lines passing through a wellbore member such as a tubing hanger, and a plurality of hydraulic switches, each in communication with the drive lines. Each hydraulic switch can have a unique pressure band, wherein the switch only responds when the pressure in the drive lines is within the unique pressure band. Once the pressure in the drive lines is within the pressure band, the switch can open or close in response to a pressure differential in the drive lines. |
| US09267354B2 |
Fluid injection device
A fluid injection device (38) for deployment in a well-bore to control injection of fluid into an oil reservoir, wherein the well-bore has an outer pipe (16) and an inner tube (14) which extends within the outer pipe and is connected at one end to a pressurized fluid supply above the ground. The device includes a control valve arrangement comprising: an inlet (42) for receiving the fluid from the inner tube; an outlet (56) for outputting the fluid outside the inner tube; an inlet valve (44) in a fluid path between the inlet and the outlet; and an actuator (50) associated with the inlet valve which is controllable to switch the inlet valve between its open and closed configurations, such that when the inlet valve is open, the fluid flows from the inner tube, via the inlet, fluid path and outlet to outside the inner tube. A method of controlling injection of fluid into an oil reservoir from a well-bore using such a device is also provided. |
| US09267353B2 |
Backup system for packer sealing element
Backup rings are disposed on opposed sides of a sealing element. The backup rings are initially bow shaped in the run in position. Opposed ends of the bow shape are brought together to extend the extrusion barriers and compress the sealing element. The relative axial movement that brings the opposed ends of the bow shape together results in radially extending the bow shape. The bow shape is reformed into a teardrop shape that extends radially beyond a pinch location created by relative axial movement of adjacent support members coming closer together. A sealing element extends radially during the deployment of the extrusion barriers and is contained between them. The extension of the extrusion barriers allows conformance to surface irregularities in the surrounding tubular or wellbore wall. |
| US09267351B2 |
Member for hydrocarbon resource collection downhole tool
A downhole tool member for hydrocarbon resource recovery, comprising a shaped body of a polyglycolic acid resin having a weight average molecular weight of at least 70,000, having an effective thickness which is ½ or more of a critical thickness of surface decomposition, and exhibiting a thickness reduction rate in water which is constant with respect to time. As a result, it has become possible to more accurately design the strength and time up to the collapse of the downhole tool member which forms the whole or a part of a downhole tool for developing or repairing downholes for recovery of hydrocarbon resources, such as oil and gas. |
| US09267350B1 |
Top pot assembly
The present invention relates to rotating heads for oil and gas wells and more particularly, to an improved top pot assembly that utilizes an attachment body for attaching the rubber and the driving head to a bearing assembly for rotation with the inner barrel. The attachment body simplifies the replacement of the rubber on the drilling assembly. The attachment body of the present invention provides a driving receiver for attachment of the driving head to the attachment body. The attachment body of the present invention also provides a stripper receiver for attachment of the rubber to the attachment body. The attachment body attaches to the housing. The housing attaches to the bearing assembly for rotation of the driving head, the rubber, and the inner barrel. |
| US09267349B2 |
Plug tooling package with integrated sequence valves
A device and method of handling a plug in a tubing hanger includes a pressure actuated sequence valve that has multiple outlets. Hydraulic fluid from a remotely operated vehicle (ROV) provides hydraulic fluid that selectively flows through the valve for operating a tool that handles the plug. The valve outlets are ported to separate lines for operating different functions of the tool. Flow to a specific outlet occurs by sequencing the valve to a corresponding position, where the valve is sequenced by changing pressure of the hydraulic fluid. The sequence valve is disposed in a piston that is axially movable within the tool. A stroking rod attaches to the piston, and is actuated by diverting flow to sides of the piston. |
| US09267347B2 |
Dissolvable tool
A dissolvable tool includes a body having at least one stress riser configured to concentrate stress thereat to accelerate structural degradation of the body through chemical reaction under applied stress within a reactive environment. |
| US09267346B2 |
Systems and methods for monitoring a wellbore and actuating a downhole device
Systems and methods for monitoring a wellbore and actuating a downhole device include a body adapted for insertion into the wellbore that contains a processor, data storage, and sensors that detect a pressure, temperature, and acceleration associated with the body. Computer instructions are usable to receive and store preselected parameters, which include pressure, temperature, and acceleration ranges, and to compare measured values to these ranges for forming a determination usable to initiate actuation of a downhole tool. Additional parameters, such as temporal parameters, can be used to allow, cease, reset, or prevent actuation of the downhole tool. |
| US09267341B2 |
Drilling rig employing pivoting drilling tower
An apparatus including a base, and a drilling tower pivotally coupled to the base to pivot the drilling tower between first and second pivot positions. The drilling tower includes a first portion, and a second portion pivotally coupled to the first portion to pivot the second portion between third and fourth pivot positions when the drilling tower is in the first pivot position. A method includes pivotally coupling a drilling tower to a base, which includes providing a first portion of the drilling tower, pivotally coupling a second portion of the drilling tower to the first portion of the drilling tower, and pivotally coupling the first portion of the drilling tower to the base. |
| US09267336B2 |
Method for connecting a flexible line to a structure of a fluid exploitation installation and associated connection device
The method according to the invention comprises providing a flexible line (18) and a bend limiter axially immobilized around the flexible line (18) by a releasable immobilizing mechanism (46). It includes partially inserting the flexible line (18) through a hollow rigid member (40), immobilizing the bend limiter on the hollow rigid member (40), and deactivating the releasable immobilizing mechanism (46). The releasable immobilizing mechanism (46) is deactivated independently of the movement of the flexible line (18) relative to the bend limiter. |
| US09267335B2 |
Breech lock coupling
There is provided a breech lock coupling for coupling riser sections together. The breech lock coupling may be used non-pre-loaded or pre-loaded according to the user's preferences. In addition, the breech lock coupling may be disassembled for inspection and maintenance and reassembled. A locking ring secures two coupling components together. The coupling components may be attached to opposite ends of the riser sections, such as via welding. The locking ring may be pre-attached to the first coupling component for easy storage and fast assembly. Assembly of the riser may be accomplished by inserting the second coupling component into the locking ring and the first coupling component, then rotating the locking ring with respect to the second component. Furthermore, the coupling may be pre-loaded by tightening fasteners on the locking ring to provide a more stable coupling. Unlike with traditional riser couplings, the pre-load fasteners may be tightened via hand-held tools. |
| US09267332B2 |
Impregnated drilling tools including elongated structures
Impregnated drilling tools include elongated structures that provide enhanced properties. The drilling tools contain a diamond-impregnated cutting section that contains elongated structures made from carbon, glass, ceramic, and the like. The elongated structures can comprise tubes, fibers, or rods. In one or more implementations the elongated structures are nano-sized. The elongated structures can control the tensile strength and/or the erosion rate of the drilling tools to optimize the cutting performance of the tools. Additionally, the elongated structures may also weaken the cutting section in one or more implementations; thereby, allowing higher strength binders to be used. Such higher modulus binders can cost less and allow for tailoring of the cutting section to retain the diamonds for the desired amount of time. As the cutting section erodes, the elongated structures may also increase the lubricity at the face of the cutting section. |
| US09267330B2 |
Long distance high power optical laser fiber break detection and continuity monitoring systems and methods
A monitoring and detection system for use on high power laser systems, long distance high power laser systems and tools for performing high power laser operations. In particular, the monitoring and detection systems provide break detection and continuity protection for performing high power laser operations on, and in, remote and difficult to access locations. |
| US09267324B2 |
Band lift system for shades
Disclosed is a roman shade assembly (100, 200) that utilizes lift bands (108, 208) rather than lift cords. The shade (110, 210) can be formed of textured materials or woven woods. The shade assembly includes lift bands (108,208) that attach to a rotatable member(s) (115, 215) and can be extended or retracted within an architectural opening by rotating the member(s). The lift bands can be slidingly connected to the shade at multiple points along the vertical length of the shade. Accordingly, as the wide lift bands are extended or retracted, the attached shade is likewise extended or retracted to cover or uncover an architectural opening. |
| US09267321B2 |
Interlocking mechanism and image forming apparatus having the interlocking mechanism
An interlocking mechanism includes an axial member reciprocating in a width direction of arrangement of first and second front doors by linking with an opening/closing operation of a side door. A stop member is provided rotatably and fixed in the width direction to the axial member. A restriction member presses the axial member toward the side door and having a pressing/urging member that urges the stop member in one of rotating directions. A pressing claw presses the stop member in the other of the rotating directions in a state where the second front door and the side door are closed. A restriction claw abuts on the stop member when the first front door is closed in a state where at least one of the side door and the second front door is open. An interlock switch is actuated by an actuator being inserted into the interlock switch. |
| US09267317B2 |
Door stop assembly
Door stops are generally discussed herein for stopping door knobs or other door hardware from slamming against a wall with particular discussions on door stops having dampening means. Aspects of the door stop assemblies discussed herein include the use of a helical coil spring spacer for delimiting movement of a door and either a pliable insert or an outer sheath or both for dampening the spring when the same is impacted. A combination magnet and magnetically attractable plate or two magnets with opposite magnetic poles may be used to temporary secure a door in a fixed position. |
| US09267315B2 |
Door safety locking apparatus
A door safety locking apparatus door safety locking apparatus including: a body mounted inside a housing; a locker mounted inside a door opening and closing the interior of the housing in such a manner as to be separably fitted to the body; a dog coupled to the interior of the body by means of a shaft and having a locking protrusion formed on the upper end thereof to lock a coupling hole pierced on the locker thereonto; a tilting rod coupled at the front end thereof to the dog by means of a pin and coupled at the end portion thereof to the bottom surface of the interior of the body by means of a hinge, to guide the dog being rotated around the shaft in accordance with the pulling operation of the locker; and a spring fitted around the outer periphery of the tilting rod to elastically support the tilting rod guiding the rotating operation of the dog. |
| US09267301B2 |
Underwater wildlife connection swimming pool
An underwater wildlife connection swimming pool is configured to engage human users with aquatic wildlife. The underwater wildlife connection swimming pool includes a swimming pool that is configured to accommodate swimming pool water with chemicals and temperatures used in recreational swimming. The swimming pool further comprises entirely transparent walls attached to an entirely transparent floor. A swimming pool deck is mechanically coupled to the swimming pool. An aquatic wildlife tank is attached to the swimming pool deck. The aquatic wildlife tank has an aquatic wildlife tank floor. The aquatic wildlife tank is configured to accommodate aquatic wildlife tank water with temperature and salinity safe for the aquatic wildlife. A plurality of swimming pool inserts are mechanically coupled to the entirely transparent floor. A plurality of support columns are mechanically coupled to the plurality of swimming pool inserts and the aquatic wildlife tank floor. |
| US09267297B2 |
Method for producing a drywall
The invention relates to a method for producing a drywall. In the method, a panel made of a plurality of paneling boards (3) placed alongside one another is fixed to a frame structure (1). According to the invention, fixation elements (5) are first affixed to a substructure (2) in the edge area of a paneling board (3) and/or in the joint area (4) of two adjacent paneling boards (3). Then, by means of a clamping tool (7) for example, fastening elements (6) are set alongside the fixation elements (5), the respective paneling board (3) being simultaneously clamped between the substructure (2) and the fastening element (6). |
| US09267288B2 |
Rebar clip for joining different size bars
A rebar clip is provided for joining a larger diameter rebar to a smaller diameter rebar transverse to the larger diameter rebar. In a first embodiment the clip includes diameter reducing tabs extending into upper arches of the clip for engagement with smaller diameter bars crossed on top of larger diameter bars. In a second embodiment the clip includes diameter reducing tabs extending into lower arches of the clip so that the clip may hold larger diameter bars on top of smaller diameter bars. A guide track for a clip applying gun is provided which allows for use with either version of clips and with clips of the same nominal diameter for joining equal size bars. |
| US09267282B2 |
Block for construction and method to build walls with said block
A block for construction of foundation systems retaining walls and gabions and to methods to build walls or gabions from said block. The block is comprised by at least two sides or faces of rectangular and flat configuration (1 and 2); at least one side or face (3) which has at least one of the ends in convex form; at least two sides or faces (4 and 5) which have at least one of its ends in convex form and that together with the convex end of the side or face (3) can provide said block with an apex (6) and respective geodynamic form. The present block is intended for the civil construction sector, more specifically for the construction of retaining walls by means of blocks or applying formwork with the form of the blocks. |
| US09267279B2 |
Sheet, in particular for use in the building sector
A sheet (1), preferably for use in the building sector, and in particular, for sealing the shell of a building, comprising a planar sheet body (2) that has at least one elastic layer as a sealing layer (17) made of a material of such elasticity and such restoring force that, when the sealing layer (17) is penetrated by a fastener (4), the material of the sealing layer (17) surrounding the fastening means (4) encloses the fastener (4) and provides sealing in the region of the fastener (4). Alternatively, the sheet body contains a sealing material which, upon perforation of the sheet body, is able to automatically emerge or swell to an extent sufficient to close or seal the perforation. |
| US09267278B1 |
Modular landscaping and waterproofing system
A device and method for keeping rain water away from the foundation of a structure while providing a decorative border. |
| US09267277B2 |
Urinal with sanitation device
A urinal with a sanitation device capable of preventing the generation of a smell and urine scale with reliability without reducing a water conservation effect. In the urinal US, a liquid agent is ejected in different modes by predetermined timing according to areas on the urinal US. |
| US09267274B2 |
Device for concealing a plate associated with overflow plumbing
An overflow plate concealing device for bathtubs that is associated with a plate of an overflow system of the bathtub. This aspect of the invention allows the overflow plate to be concealed to allow the user to alter the aesthetic appearance of their bathtub or repair the same. |
| US09267271B2 |
Faucet extender
A universal faucet extender having an attachment member and a trough member to detachably attach to faucet spigots or aerators of various designs. The universal faucet extender extends the flow of water within arms' reach to allow children and other individuals who would have difficulty to reach and access the flowing water. The attachment member comprises at least two receiving openings, a first receiving opening on a rear end of the attachment member and a second receiving opening on a top surface of the attachment member, both of which are adapted to interchangeably receive a circumference of a faucet spigot. |
| US09267268B2 |
Motor grader
A motor grader includes a fuel tank, a vehicle body frame, a left-side mount part, a right-side mount part, a rear-side mount part and a reducing agent tank. The left-side mount part and the right-side mount part are respectively disposed on a left lateral frame and a right lateral frame while being disposed on the both sides of the fuel tank in a vehicle width direction, and fix the fuel tank to the vehicle body frame. The rear-side mount part is disposed on the left lateral frame in the vehicle width direction while being disposed rearward of the fuel tank, and fixes the fuel tank to the vehicle body frame. The reducing agent tank is disposed rearward of and adjacently to the fuel tank while being disposed on the right lateral frame side, and accumulates a reducing agent for processing an exhaust gas from an engine. |
| US09267263B2 |
Device for establishing a float condition in a hydraulically sprung loader lift cylinder arrangement after fluid supply is decoupled
A front loader arrangement includes a hydraulically sprung lift cylinder arrangement coupled between opposite loader arm sides and respectively mounting masts. In order to permit the masts to pivot freely about their pivotal connections with the loader arm sides to aid the coupling of the masts to respective mounting frames fixed to a carrying vehicle, the hydraulic system in which the lift cylinder arrangement is incorporated includes a device, including a shut-off valve and an accumulator arrangement for establishing a float condition in the lift cylinder arrangement after a source of hydraulic fluid and associated control valve is decoupled by separating a hydraulic quick coupler. |
| US09267262B2 |
Lift arm linkage with extension cylinder
A lift arm linkage includes a pair of lift arms, a pair of extension arms, and a tool. Each lift arm of the pair of lift arms includes a first lift arm end and a second lift arm end. Each extension arm of the pair of extension arms includes a first extension arm end pivotally attached to the second lift arm end and a second extension arm end. The tool is pivotally attached to the second extension arm end. |
| US09267259B2 |
Soil reinforcing element for a mechanically stabilized earth structure
A soil reinforcing element for a mechanically stabilized earth structure may include two wires spaced apart from each other (e.g., substantially parallel to each other). Each wire may include at least two wire strands twisted about one another. A flexible outer member may enclose the two wires, may extend between the two wires, and may couple the two wires with each other. The flexible outer member may maintain the two wires spaced apart from each other, and may define at least one aperture between the at least two wires. The flexible outer member may have a protrusion extending along the length thereof. In another exemplary embodiment, a plurality of transverse wires may be coupled to the two parallel wires. |
| US09267256B2 |
Oil boom skimmer apparatus
An oil boom skimmer member for oil spill recovery, in particular for collecting oil from a water surface, has a skimmer arrangement integrated into an oil boom member. An oil recovery system, in particular for collecting oil from a water surface, includes a plurality of such oil boom skimmer members connected in series to form an oil spill recovery boom apparatus. A guiding boom is connected to each of the outermost oil boom members, and the guiding booms are also connected to a vessel for operating the system. Through the use of trawl technology the skimmer oil boom apparatus can be operated by only one vessel when needed. |
| US09267254B2 |
Flood protection system
Provided is a flood protection system for protecting an area from flooding water, wherein the area includes a trench defined at least along a portion of the boundaries thereof and a at least one depression on the side of the trench facing away from the area to be protected. The system comprising a barrier, configured for being at least partially fitted in the trench; and a float coupled to the barrier and being configured for at least partially is disposed in the depression. The float is configured for rising in response to a rise in the water level inside the depression and about the boundaries of the area. The float is further configured for lifting the barrier out of the trench therewith, thereby blocking the waters from entering the area. |
| US09267249B2 |
Work train with a milling device and a transport device with a sensor device for distance monitoring, milling device with a sensor device and method for distance monitoring with a work train
The present invention relates to a work train, a device and a method for distance measurement between a transport device and a milling device. During the loading of a transport device with milled material from the milling device, the operator of the milling device normally transmits control commands to the transport device driver for coordination of the loading process. Through the automated distance measuring between the transport device and the milling device and control of a display device according to the present invention, this task is taken over from the operator of the milling device, who can concentrate on the actual milling process. |
| US09267248B2 |
Hydraulic control arrangement for the screed of a road finisher
A hydraulic control arrangement for activating a double-acting actuating cylinder, which is connected on the piston side to a road finisher and on the piston-rod side to a screed of the road finisher, is provided. The hydraulic control arrangement includes a supply connection, a tank connection and two consumer connections, in which a loading pressure or a relief pressure is applied to the piston of the actuating cylinder via the consumer connections. The loading pressure or relief pressure is controlled as a function of a defined operating state, and, in a controlling-the-screed-load operating state, the relief pressure supplied to the actuating cylinder on the piston-rod side is controlled via a proportional pressure control valve. |
| US09267238B2 |
Glass fiber reinforced facer mat
Embodiments of the invention provide fiber mat facers, ceiling panels, and method of manufacturing the same. A fiber mat facer may include a non-woven web of fibers having a first group of fibers with an average fiber diameter from about 6 μm to about 20 μm and a second group of fibers with an average fiber diameter from about 0.5 μm to about 5 μm. The fiber mat facer may also include a binder to bond together the non-woven web of fibers into the fiber mat. The binder may include a water repellant additive. The binder and/or fiber mat facer may further include an additive that enhances the opacity of the fiber mat facer. The fiber mat facer may also include a paint applied to an outer surface of the facer. The paint may include an additive that enhances the visual appeal of the facer and/or ceiling panel. |
| US09267234B2 |
Blade element and refiner
A refiner (1, 2, 3) for refining fibrous material. And a blade element (18) for a refiner (1, 2, 3) intended for refining fibrous material. The blade element (18) having a refining surface (18′), which has blade bars (21, 23) and blade grooves (22, 24) between them. The top surface of at least one blade bar (21, 23) is provided with refining grits (25). The blade element (18) has portions (29, 30) forming a protruding part extending away above the refining surface (26a, 26b) and above the blade bars (21, 23) or the refining grits (25) on the refining surface. |
| US09267231B2 |
Methods for joining strips of synthetic turf and for covering a site with synthetic turf
A method for covering a site with synthetic turf includes laying down a first elongate strip of synthetic turf, laying down a second elongate strip of synthetic turf, with the second elongate strip of synthetic turf is laid down substantially adjacent to the first elongate strip of synthetic turf in a manner such that a portion of the second elongate strip partially overlays a portion of the first elongate strip forming a lap joint. The method also includes the step of applying heat and/or pressure to weld the first elongate strip of synthetic turf to the second elongate strip of synthetic turf along the lap joint. |
| US09267229B2 |
Dryer and method for controlling the same
A dryer is configured to remove static electricity during a drying process. The dryer includes a drum rotatable within a cabinet. The drum is configured to receive laundry. A steam generator generates and exhausts steam into the drum. A steam diffuser uniformly diffuses the steam within the drum. A ventilation system ventilates air within the drum. |
| US09267226B2 |
Dynamic unbalance detection in a washing machine
A washing machine and method for detecting unbalance in a washing machine. A power filter may be calculated based on a detected load size, speed of a component of the washing machine, and/or a resonant frequency of the washing machine. An unbalanced indicator may be activated when a speed does not pass the power filter. |
| US09267225B2 |
Method of estimating bending moment of a laundry treating appliance drum shaft using a proximity sensor
Disclosed is a method of operating a laundry treating appliance having a tub, a rotatable drum within the tub, and a rotatable drive shaft supported in a bearing assembly and mounted to the drum, with the bending moment acting on the bearing assembly being determined and used as an input to control the operation of the appliance. |
| US09267224B2 |
Laundry processing apparatus
The present invention provides a laundry processing apparatus (100), which includes: a laundry processing drum (22), used for holding laundry for processing; a driving system (30), used for driving the laundry processing drum (22) to process the held laundry; and a power control system (10), at least used for providing power of a grid for the driving system (30), where the power control system (10) includes an electrical storage device (11). Through the setting, when external grid power outage occur or the fluctuation of the voltage is excessively large, the power control system may switch a power storage device to supply power to the laundry processing apparatus, thereby eliminating the influence on the apparatus caused by unstable voltage of power transmitted by the grid or grid power outage, and avoiding the trouble brought to a user. |
| US09267223B2 |
Single- or multiple-head embroidery machine having a double-lock-stitch rotating gripper
A single- or multiple-head embroidery machine has stitch-forming tools which are formed in each case by a thread-guiding needle that interacts with a double-lock-stitch gripper to form stitches, and also has a feed device for obtaining relative movements between the embroidery material and the stitch-forming tools. The relative movements occur depending on the movements of the needle. In order to avoid a temporal overlap between the stitch-forming phase and the feed movement of the embroidery material, the double-lock-stitch gripper rotates at a rotational speed which corresponds to n times the rotational speed of the machine main shaft, wherein “n” is an integer greater than the number “2”. |
| US09267217B2 |
Production method for R—Fe—B based sintered magnet having plating film on surface thereof
An object of the present invention is to provide a production method for an R—Fe—B based sintered magnet having a plating film excellent in adhesiveness on the surface thereof, by conducting a series of processes of acid cleaning and smut removal as pretreatments of an R—Fe—B based sintered magnet, and the subsequent plating treatment effectively without causing trouble. The production method of the present invention includes a series of processes of acid cleaning and smut removal of a magnet as pretreatments, and the subsequent plating treatment is conducted consistently with a state, in which the magnet is placed in a barrel made of synthetic resin. The smut removal is conducted by ultrasonic cleaning of the magnet with rotating the barrel in water in which the dissolved oxygen amount is set to 0.1 ppm to 6 ppm by degassing. |
| US09267215B2 |
System, method and apparatus for measuring electrolysis cell operating conditions and communicating the same
System, method and apparatus for measuring electrolysis cell operating conditions and communicating the same are disclosed. The system includes a selectively positionable member coupled to an analytical apparatus, wherein the selectively positionable is configured to move the analytical apparatus into and out of physical communication with a bath. The system may also include a crust breaker for breaking the surface of a bath and an electronic device for measuring bath level. |
| US09267211B2 |
Low-voltage alkaline production using hydrogen and electrocatalytic electrodes
An alkaline production system comprising an electrochemical unit comprising a hydrogen-oxidizing anode, a cathode compartment comprising a cathode and a hydrogen delivery system configured to deliver hydrogen gas to the anode, wherein the unit is operably connected to a carbon sequestration system configured to sequester carbon dioxide with the cathode electrolyte; and methods thereof. In another embodiment, a system comprising a hydrogen-oxidizing anode in communication with a cathode electrolyte comprising bicarbonate ion; and an hydrogen delivery system configured to deliver hydrogen gas to the anode; and methods thereof. |
| US09267208B2 |
Methods for controlling plasma constituent flux and deposition during semiconductor fabrication and apparatus for implementing the same
A time-dependent substrate temperature to be applied during a plasma process is determined. The time-dependent substrate temperature at any given time is determined based on control of a sticking coefficient of a plasma constituent at the given time. A time-dependent temperature differential between an upper plasma boundary and a substrate to be applied during the plasma process is also determined. The time-dependent temperature differential at any given time is determined based on control of a flux of the plasma constituent directed toward the substrate at the given time. The time-dependent substrate temperature and time-dependent temperature differential are stored in a digital format suitable for use by a temperature control device defined and connected to direct temperature control of the upper plasma boundary and the substrate. A system is also provided for implementing upper plasma boundary and substrate temperature control during the plasma process. |
| US09267203B2 |
Continuous coating apparatus
Provided is a continuous coating apparatus which can supply a liquid coating material (a molten metal) to a levitation-heating space through various paths, and can easily control a supply flow rate of the liquid coating material, and has a simplified structure. The continuous coating apparatus includes: a vacuum chamber unit through which a coating target passes; a levitation-heating unit disposed in the vacuum chamber unit and generating an evaporation vapor by vaporizing a supplied coating material; and a liquid coating material supply unit connected so that a liquid coating material is supplied to at least one of an upper portion and a lower portion of the levitation-heating unit, and communicating with the outside of the vacuum chamber unit. |
| US09267200B2 |
Method for supplying sequential power impulses
The invention relates to a method for supplying power impulses for PVD sputtering cathodes subdivided into partial cathodes. In said method, the power impulse intervals acting on the partial cathodes are selected in such a way as to overlap, thereby dispensing with the need to interrupt the drawing of power supplied by the generator. |
| US09267195B2 |
Tempered steel
A rolling resistant heat-treated steel, which has the following elements indicated in mass fractions in relation to the overall weight: 0.5% to 0.6% inclusive carbon, 0.0031% to 0.005% inclusive boron and 3.5 parts or more parts of titanium in relation to 1 part of nitrogen. |
| US09267192B2 |
Processable high thermal neutron absorbing Fe-base alloy powder
A corrosion resistant, neutron absorbing, austenitic alloy powder is disclosed having the following composition in weight percent. C0.08 max. Mnup to 3 Siup to 2 P0.05 max. S0.03 max. Cr17-27 Ni11-20 Mo + (W/1.92) up to 5.2 BEq0.78-13.0 O 0.1 max. N up to 0.2 Yless than 0.005 The alloy contains at least about 0.25% B, at least about 0.05% Gd, and the balance of the alloy composition is iron and usual impurities. BEq is defined as % B+4.35×(% Gd). An article of manufacture made from consolidated alloy powder is also disclosed which is characterized by a plurality of boride and gadolinide particles dispersed within a matrix. The boride and gadolinide particles are predominantly M2B, M3B2, M3X, and M5X in form, where X is gadolinium or a combination of gadolinium and boron and M is one or more of the elements silicon, chromium, nickel, molybdenum, iron. |
| US09267190B2 |
Production method and production device for a composite metal powder using the gas spraying method
Disclosed herein are a method and an apparatus for preparing a metal composite powder by using gas spraying. The method of preparing a metal composite powder by using gas spraying includes introducing a matrix phase in a chamber, including a reinforcing phase in the chamber, melting the introduced matrix phase to form a melt, adding the reinforcing phase in the melt, stirring the melt with the added reinforcing phase to form a melt mixture, atomizing the melt mixture together with a gas to form a metal composite powder containing the reinforcing phase, and collecting the metal composite powder formed. |
| US09267188B2 |
Method for extraction and separation of lanthanoid elements and actinoid elements, and means for extraction and separation of lanthanoid elements and actinoid elements
Problem: To provide a material and a method for efficient and inexpensive extraction of rare metals that are included in urban minerals. Solution: A method for the extraction of lanthanoid elements and actinoid elements, said method comprising: an adsorption process wherein a metal-dissolved solution containing a target metal selected from lanthanoid elements and actinoid elements is made to come into contact with porous structures that carry metal-adsorbent compounds that are adsorbent to target metal ions so that the target metal ions in said solution are adsorbed by said metal-adsorbent compounds; and a target metal separation process wherein said porous structures are made to come into contact with a back-extraction solution so that the target metal ions that are adsorbed by said metal-absorbent compounds are transported to the back-extraction solution. |
| US09267187B2 |
Vapor-reinforced expanding volume of gas to minimize the contamination of products treated in a melting furnace
Systems and corresponding methods are described herein that provide an effective inert blanket over a metal surface (hot solid (charge) metal or molten metal) in a container such as an induction furnace. The system includes a container of metal and a system configured to delivery biphasic inert cryogen toward the metal. The delivery system may include a lance disposed at the top of the container. The lance has a hood that directs both a flow of liquid cryogen and a flow of vaporous gas toward the metal surface. The liquid cryogen contacts the metal surface, generating a volume of expanding gas over the metal surface. The vaporous cryogen creates a reinforcing vapor that slows the expansion rate of the expanding gas, localizing the expanding gas over the metal surface. |
| US09267186B2 |
Method for quenching steel pipe and method for producing steel pipe using the same
In quenching, where a heated steel pipe (2) is immersed in a water bath (3) in parallel with water surface for cooling a pipe outer surface, and cooling water is injected from an axial center nozzle (8) into one end of pipe for cooling a pipe inner surface, thereby rapidly cooling the entire pipe surface, reduction of strength difference along a length of the quenched pipe becomes possible by moving the nozzle (8) following the motion of the pipe axis (2), and starting injecting the water from the nozzle (8) so as for the water to reach the other pipe end at the time of the immersion of the entire circumference of the pipe outer surface. An opening (3a) preferably faces the nozzle (8) to remove the water, and the flow velocity is preferably set to 23 m/sec or more for better water flow inside the pipe (2). |
| US09267183B2 |
Wire with excellent suitability for drawing and process for producing the same
A hot-rolled wire rod excelling in wire drawability is provided, in which breakage can be suppressed even in heavy work from a large diameter. A hot-rolled wire rod contains C: 0.35 to 0.65% (percent by mass, hereinafter expressed as well), Si: 1.4 to 3.0%, Mn: 0.10 to 1.0%, Cr: 0.1 to 2.0%, P: 0.025% or less (exclusive of 0%), S: 0.025% or less (exclusive of 0%), N: 0.006% or less (exclusive of 0%), Al: 0.1% or less (exclusive of 0%), and O: 0.0030% or less (exclusive of 0%), with the remnant consisting of Fe and inevitable impurities; wherein the content of hydrogen in steel is 2.50 ppm (ppm by mass, hereinafter expressed as well) or less, and hardness (HV) is 460×C00.1 or less (C0 indicates the content of C (percent by mass) in a position of depth of D/4 (D: diameter of the wire rod)). |
| US09267182B2 |
Dehairing of skins and hides
The present invention relates to a method for the processing of hides or skins into leather, comprising enzymatic treatment of the hide or skin with carbohydrase in the soaking step. The present invention can achieve optimal fiber opening results in a relatively short period of time and at the same time does not cause loose grain, and meanwhile the pollution or impact on the environment is reduced in a maximum way. |
| US09267178B2 |
Detection and differentiation of demodex mites
Methods of detecting D. gatoi or D. cati, are disclosed. A sample suspected of containing a nucleic acid of D. gatoi or D. cati is screened for the presence or absence of that nucleic acid. The presence of the D. gatoi or D. cati nucleic acid indicates the presence of D. gatoi or D. cati. Determining whether the D. gatoi or D. cati nucleic acid is present in the sample can be accomplished by detecting hybridization between a D. gatoi or D. cati probe. Probes and primers for the detection of D. gatoi or D. cati are also disclosed. Disclosed are isolated nucleic acids that encode a D. gatoi or D. cati rRNA gene sequence. Kits and arrays that contain the disclosed probes and/or primers also are disclosed. |
| US09267175B2 |
Multi-biomarker-based outcome risk stratification model for adult septic shock
The invention provides a multi-biomarker based methods to stratify adult septic shock patients into high and low risk groups. |
| US09267174B2 |
Method of simultaneously screening for multiple genotypes and/or mutations
The invention provides a non-invasive technique for the differential detection of multiple genotypes and/or mutations for a plurality of target genes in a biological sample containing genetic material from different genomic sources. Methods are conducted using multiplex amplification of a plurality of target sequences from the biological sample, and sequencing is used to detect and enumerate genetic mutations and chromosomal abnormalities at the single nucleotide level. |
| US09267173B2 |
Method for pairwise sequencing of target polynucleotides
The invention relates to methods for pairwise sequencing of a double-stranded polynucleotide template, which methods result in the sequential determination of nucleotide sequences in two distinct and separate regions of the polynucleotide template. Using the methods of the invention it is possible to obtain two linked or paired reads of sequence information from each double-stranded template on a clustered array, rather than just a single sequencing read from one strand of the template. |
| US09267172B2 |
Efficient base determination in sequencing reactions
The present invention is directed to compositions and methods for nucleic acid identification and detection. Compositions and methods of the present invention include extracting and fragmenting target nucleic acids from a sample, using the fragmented target nucleic acids to produce target nucleic acid templates and subjecting those target nucleic acid templates to amplification methods to form nucleic acid nanoballs. The invention also includes methods of detecting and identifying sequences using various sequencing applications, including sequencing by ligation methods. |
| US09267170B2 |
Systems and methods for biological analysis
A case for containing a plurality of biological samples contains a base, a substrate and a cover. The substrate is attached to the base and comprises a plurality of reaction regions configured to receive one or more biological samples. The cover comprises an inner surface and is configured to be attached to the base such that the base and cover together provide a cavity containing the substrate. The inner surface includes a central area and a recessed area disposed about the central area. The central area is configured to cover the reaction regions, while the recessed area is offset from the central area in a direction normal to the inner surface. |
| US09267169B2 |
DNA polymerases with increased 3'-mismatch discrimination
Disclosed are mutant DNA polymerases having increased 3′-mismatch discrimination relative to a corresponding, unmodified polymerase. The mutant polymerases are useful in a variety of disclosed primer extension methods. Also disclosed are related compositions, including recombinant nucleic acids, vectors, and host cells, which are useful, e.g., for production of the mutant DNA polymerases. |
| US09267165B2 |
Assays and kits for detecting protein binding
The invention provides methods for determining the interactions between phage-displayed proteins and test molecules. The phage-displayed proteins are contacted with a reference moiety in the presence and absence of a test molecule; the behavior of the phage-displayed proteins as a function of concentration of the test molecule permits calculation of the binding affinity of the phage-displayed protein for the test molecule. |
| US09267164B2 |
Method of recombinant macromolecular production
A method for recombinantly expressing a macromolecule in a host cell is disclosed which involves culturing a host cell which contains two nucleic acid sequences, i.e., a first nucleic acid sequence encoding a membrane-permeabilizing agent and a second nucleic acid sequence encoding a desired macromolecule under the operative control of an inducible promoter, to a selected cell density that permits accumulation of the agent. Thereafter the host cell is exposed to an environmental condition that induces the agent to disrupt the integrity of the cell membrane without complete lysis of the cell membrane. The host cell thereby allows transport through the membrane of small molecular weight compounds. These resulting host cells are cultured in the presence of a nutrient cocktail that contains components that can transport through the disrupted cell membrane, e.g., an inducing agent that induces the tightly regulated promoter and metabolic requirements that permit expression of the macromolecule. |
| US09267161B2 |
Corynebacterium sp. transformed with a fructokinase gene derived from Escherichia sp. and process for preparing L-amino acid using the same
The present invention relates to Corynebacterium sp. that is transformed with an Escherichia sp.-derived fructokinase gene to express fructokinase showing a sufficient activity of converting fructose into fructose-6-phosphate, thereby preventing unnecessary energy consumption, and a method for producing L-amino acids using the strain. The transformed Corynebacterium sp. of the present invention is able to express fructokinase from the Escherichia-derived fructokinase gene to prevent unnecessary energy consumption during fructose metabolism, leading to more cost-effective production of L-amino acids. Therefore, it can be widely used for the effective production of L-amino acids. |
| US09267160B2 |
Increasing methionine production by overexpressing succinate dehydrogenase
The present invention relates to a process for improving the production of methionine by culturing a microorganism modified for enhancing the expression of genes involved in succinate dehydrogenase synthesis. The microorganisms were modified in a way that the methionine/carbon source yield is increased. The isolation of methionine from the fermentation medium is also claimed. |
| US09267151B2 |
STXBP1 overexpressing mouse and its uses in screening of treatments for neuropsychiatric illness
A non-human transgenic animal having a polynucleotide encoding an STXBP1 polypeptide, which polynucleotide is operably linked to a promoter, wherein said transgenic animal has greater than wild-type expression of the STXBP1 polypeptide in at least one brain region, as well as related vectors, methods of producing transgenic animals, in vitro and in vivo screening methods for potential therapeutic agents, and methods for treating and diagnosing neuropsychiatric illness are disclosed. |
| US09267149B2 |
Transgenic aloe plants for production of proteins and related methods
The present inventions provide transgenic aloe plants and recombinant constructs for transforming aloe plants, aspects of which, may be applied to other monocots. The recombinant constructs may include one or more DNA sequences encoding mammalian proteins and at least one promoter capable of directing the expression of recombinant proteins in an aloe plant. The present inventions also provide methods for constructing and reproducing a transgenic aloe plant. The present inventions include methods for transfection of an aloe plant with several genes of interest simultaneously. The aloe plant production methods of the inventions may provide the potential to inexpensively and more safely mass-produce some biologically active compounds including biopharmaceuticals for disease therapy, diagnosis and prevention, and is more accessible to the less affluent countries. The aloe plant production methods may also produce proteins for cosmetics. |
| US09267147B2 |
Seed-preferred promoter from peroxiredoxin gene from flax
The present invention relates to expression cassettes comprising transcription regulating nucleotide sequences with seed-preferential or seed-specific expression profiles in plants obtainable from the Arabidopsis thaliana gene described by the locus At1g48130 or its orthologs from other plant species (such as Linum usitatissimum). The transcription regulating nucleotide sequences preferably exhibit strong expression activity especially in seeds and seed tissues. |
| US09267143B2 |
RNA virus-derived plant expression system
A process of expressing a sequence of interest in a plant, plant part, or plant cell culture, comprising: (a) providing a plant, plant part, or plant cell culture containing in cell nuclei a heterologous DNA having a sequence encoding an RNA replicon operably linked or linkable to a transcription promoter, wherein said sequence encoding an RNA replicon contains (i) sequences for replicon function of said RNA replicon, said sequences being derived from a sequence of a plant RNA virus, (ii) a sequence of interest, whereby said sequences for replicon function exhibit at selected localities of said sequences of said plant RNA virus function conservative differences from said sequence of said plant RNA virus, said differences causing an increased frequency of replicon formation compared to an RNA replicon not exhibiting said differences; and (b) causing expression of said sequence of interest. |
| US09267142B2 |
Recombinant protein production in heterologous systems
Isolated polynucleotides are disclosed which increase the efficiency of gene expression in a heterologous cell. The polynucleotide sequences which encode polypeptides are adapted such that the average rate of translation of the first at least about 30 amino acids is slower by at least two fold than the average rate of translation of the remaining amino acids of the polypeptide. |
| US09267139B2 |
Compositions and methods for treating musculoskeletal diseases and disorders
Compositions and methods for modulating miRNAs up-regulated or down-regulated in aged individuals and their downstream targets are disclosed. Methods of treating musculoskeletal disorders are also provided. |
| US09267138B2 |
Oligomeric compounds and compositions for use in modulation of small non-coding RNAs
Compounds, compositions and methods are provided for modulating the expression and function of small non-coding RNAs. The compositions comprise oligomeric compounds, targeted to small non-coding RNAs. Methods of using these compounds for modulation of small non-coding RNAs as well as downstream targets of these RNAs and for diagnosis and treatment of disease associated with small non-coding RNAs are also provided. |
| US09267137B2 |
MicroRNA compounds and methods for modulating miR-21 activity
Described herein are compositions and methods for the inhibition of miR-21 activity. The compositions have certain nucleoside modification patterns that yield potent inhibitors of miR-21 activity. The compositions may be used to inhibit miR-21, and also to treat diseases associated with abnormal expression of miR-21, such as fibrosis and cancer. |
| US09267135B2 |
RNA-guided transcriptional regulation
Methods of modulating expression of a target nucleic acid in a cell are provided including introducing into the cell a first foreign nucleic acid encoding one or more RNAs complementary to DNA, wherein the DNA includes the target nucleic acid, introducing into the cell a second foreign nucleic acid encoding a nuclease-null Cas9 protein that binds to the DNA and is guided by the one or more RNAs, introducing into the cell a third foreign nucleic acid encoding a transcriptional regulator protein or domain, wherein the one or more RNAs, the nuclease-null Cas9 protein, and the transcriptional regulator protein or domain are expressed, wherein the one or more RNAs, the nuclease-null Cas9 protein and the transcriptional regulator protein or domain co-localize to the DNA and wherein the transcriptional regulator protein or domain regulates expression of the target nucleic acid. |
| US09267134B2 |
Methods of modulating MicroRNAs in the treatment of pulmonary arterial hypertension
The present invention provides a method of treating or preventing pulmonary arterial hypertension in a subject in need thereof by administering to the subject an inhibitor of miR-145 expression or activity. Pharmaceutical compositions and kits comprising miR-145 inhibitors for treating pulmonary arterial hypertension are also disclosed. |
| US09267132B2 |
Methods for cloning and manipulating genomes
Compositions and methods are disclosed herein for cloning a synthetic or a semi-synthetic donor genome in a heterologous host cell. In one embodiment, the donor genome can be further modified within a host cell. Modified or unmodified genomes can be further isolated from the host cell and transferred to a recipient cell. Methods disclosed herein can be used to alter donor genomes from intractable donor cells in more tractable host cells. |
| US09267126B2 |
Polypeptides having endoglucanase activity and polynucleotides encoding same
The present invention relates to isolated polypeptides having endoglucanase activity and isolated polynucleotides encoding the polypeptides. The invention also relates to nucleic acid constructs, vectors, and host cells comprising the polynucleotides as well as methods of producing and using the polypeptides. |
| US09267125B2 |
Polypeptides having cellobiohydrolase activity and polynucleotides encoding same
The present invention relates to isolated polypeptides having cellobiohydrolase activity and isolated polynucleotides encoding the polypeptides. The invention also relates to nucleic acid constructs, vectors, and host cells comprising the polynucleotides as well as methods of producing and using the polypeptides. |
| US09267124B2 |
Alpha amylase variants and polynucleotides encoding same
The present invention relates to variants of alpha amylase. The present invention also relates to polynucleotides encoding the variants; nucleic acid constructs, vectors, and host cells comprising the polynucleotides; and methods of using the variants. |
| US09267116B2 |
Amino acid dehydrogenase, and process for producing L-amino acid, 2-oxo acid or D-amino acid
The present invention relates to a novel amino acid dehydrogenase, DNA encoding the enzyme, and a transformant having the DNA introduced therein. The present invention also relates to a process for producing an L-amino acid, 2-oxo acid or D-amino acid, which includes allowing the amino acid dehydrogenase or a microorganism or transformant capable of producing the enzyme to act on a substrate compound. The amino acid dehydrogenase has good reactivity even with an amino acid or a 2-oxo acid each having a bulky side chain such as an aromatic-ring-containing group, which acids are poorly reactive with conventional amino acid dehydrogenases. The amino acid dehydrogenase enables the inexpensive and highly efficient production of a useful optically active amino acid. |
| US09267113B2 |
Hybrid baculovirus and uses thereof
Disclosed herein is an Autographa californica multiple nucleopolyhedrovirus (AcMNPV) based hybrid baculovirus and its uses thereof. The AcMNPV based hybrid baculovirus is capable of infecting different hosts, and comprises Maruca vitrata multiple nucleopolyhedrovirus (MaviMNPV) genes of lef1, orf1629, pk1, CDS1, CDS2, and lef2; and AcMNPV/MaviMNPV-hybrid genes of egt and orf152. The AcMNPV based hybrid baculovirus is therefore useful as a bio-insecticide by its capability of delivering genes of toxic proteins to be expressed in at least two different insect hosts. |
| US09267107B2 |
Process and composition for manufacture of a microbial-based product
Processes to produce microorganisms that can be incorporated into a microbial-based product that results in high viable cell yields and shelf-stable products are disclosed. These microbial-based products are useful for inhibiting pathogenic growth and as a food additive. A preferred microorganism is a lactic acid producing bacteria. In one embodiment, the process comprises inoculating a lactobacillus fermentation medium with lactic acid producing bacterial cells, harvesting the lactic acid producing bacterial cells at mid to late log phase, concentrating the lactic acid producing bacterial cells, and preserving the lactic acid producing bacterial cells at a concentration of at least 5×109 cfu/ml. |
| US09267106B2 |
Method for incorporation of recombinant DNA
The invention provides methods of preparing bacteria of interest with a stably integrated nucleic acid sequence of interest. |
| US09267099B2 |
Engineered lumenized vascular networks and support matrix
Disclosed herein are capillary fabrication devices comprising living cells within a support medium. Culture of the cells produces viable lumenized capillary networks with natural or pre-determined geometries and ECM and basement membrane associated with the capillary networks. The capillary networks and the ECM and basement membrane detachable from the capillary networks are useful for tissue engineering applications. |
| US09267094B2 |
Drag reducing compositions and methods of manufacture and use
A drag reducing composition for use in hydrocarbon streams which contains a finely divided, solid polyolefin friction reducing agent, a suspending medium comprised of water and a liquid organic carrier containing from 10 to 14 carbon atoms and having at least one hydroxyl group and a partitioning agent comprising a compound having a hydrophobic group and a hydrophilic group and exhibiting at least some surface activity. |
| US09267091B2 |
Tuning an oligomerizing step that uses an acidic ionic liquid catalyst to produce a base oil with selected properties
We provide a process for making a base oil, comprising: feeding an olefin feed comprising a propylene to an oligomerization zone comprising an acidic ionic liquid catalyst prepared from an organic-based cation; and tuning an oligomerizing step in the oligomerization zone by mixing a C6+olefin with the propylene in the oligomerization zone to increase a viscosity index of the base oil. We also provide a process for making a base oil, comprising tuning an oligomerizing step by mixing a C6+olefin with a propylene in an oligomerization zone comprising an acidic ionic liquid catalyst prepared from an organic-based cation to increase a viscosity index of the base oil produced in the oligomerization zone; wherein the base oil has selected properties. |
| US09267085B2 |
Systems and methods for processing solid powders
A system for gasification of a solid powder is provided. The system comprises one or more conveying tanks configured to receive a solid powder and one or more solid pumps disposed downstream of and in fluid communication with the one or more respective conveying tanks. The system further comprises a gasifier disposed downstream of and in fluid communication with the one or more solid pumps. A conveyance unit and a method for conveyance and gasification of a solid powder are also presented. |
| US09267074B2 |
Systems and methods for processing glycerol
Systems and methods for processing glycerol into one or more products and uses thereof are provided. In one or more embodiments, a method for treating soil can include applying a partially oxidized reaction product to a soil. The partially oxidized reaction product can be prepared by decreasing a pH of a mixture that includes glycerol and fatty acids to produce a mixture that includes a glycerol-rich portion and a fatty acids-rich portion. The glycerol-rich portion can be reacted with at least one of an oxidant and a catalyst at conditions sufficient to produce the partially oxidized reaction product. |
| US09267072B2 |
Weighted elastomers, cement compositions comprising weighted elastomers, and methods of use
Methods and compositions are provided that relate to weighted elastomers. The weighted elastomers may comprise an elastomer and a weighting agent attached to an outer surface of the elastomer. An embodiment includes a method comprising providing a fluid that comprises a weighted elastomer, wherein the weighted elastomer comprises an elastomer and a weighting agent attached to an outer surface of the elastomer; and introducing the fluid into a subterranean formation. |
| US09267071B2 |
Thermoset nanocomposite particles, processing for their production, and their use in oil and natural gas drilling applications
Use of two different methods, either each by itself or in combination, to enhance the stiffness, strength, maximum possible use temperature, and environmental resistance of thermoset polymer particles is disclosed. One method is the application of post-polymerization process steps (and especially heat treatment) to advance the curing reaction and to thus obtain a more densely crosslinked polymer network. The other method is the incorporation of nanofillers, resulting in a heterogeneous “nanocomposite” morphology. Nanofiller incorporation and post-polymerization heat treatment can also be combined to obtain the benefits of both methods simultaneously. The present invention relates to the development of thermoset nanocomposite particles. Optional further improvement of the heat resistance and environmental resistance of said particles via post-polymerization heat treatment; processes for the manufacture of said particles; and use of said particles in the construction, drilling, completion and/or fracture stimulation of oil and natural gas wells are described. |
| US09267069B2 |
Water-based drilling fluid with cyclodextrin shale stabilizer
Well fluids and methods are provided that can be used for stabilizing a shale formation, especially during drilling of a well into or through a shale formation. The well fluids include: (i) a continuous water phase; (ii) a viscosity-increasing agent, wherein the viscosity-increasing agent comprises water-soluble hydrophilic polymer; (iii) a fluid loss control agent; and (iv) a cyclodextrin-based compound. The methods of drilling include the steps of: (A) introducing the well fluid into a zone of a subterranean formation; and (b) drilling the zone. |
| US09267067B2 |
Heat transfer fluid, additive package, system and method
Disclosed herein is a heat transfer fluid, comprising a hydroxylated carboxylic acid of formula (OH)x(R1)(COOH)y, wherein x is 2 to 10, y is 3 to 10, and R1 is a C2-50 aliphatic group, a C6-50 aromatic group, or a combination thereof; and wherein the hydroxylated carboxylic acid comprises the hydroxylated carboxylic acid, an ester thereof, a salt thereof, an anhydride thereof, or a combination thereof. A heat transfer system comprises an aluminum component, a magnesium component, or an aluminum component and a magnesium component; and the foregoing heat transfer fluid. |
| US09267066B2 |
Refrigerants containing (E)-1,1,1,4,4,4-hexafluorobut-2-ene
The invention relates to a composition comprising (E)-1,1,1,4,4,4-hexafluorobat-2-ene as a mixture with at least one hydrocarbon, hydrofinorocarbon or fluoroolefin compound having a boiling point less than or equal to −12° C., and also to the use of this composition as a heat transfer fluid. |
| US09267064B2 |
Ternary compositions for high-capacity refrigeration
The invention relates to compositions containing 2,3,3,3-tetrafluoropropene and to the uses thereof as heat transfer fluid, expansion agents, solvents and aerosol. The invention specifically relates to compositions essentially containing between 15 and 50 wt. % of 2,3,3,3-tetrafluoropropene, between 5 and 40 wt. % of HFC-134a and between 45 and 60 wt. %, preferably between 45 and 50 wt. %, of HFC-32. |
| US09267058B2 |
Adhesive composition and method for manufacturing a laminate using the adhesive composition
Adhesive composition according to the present invention includes an adhesive base agent consisting of a monomer and a polymerization initiator. Adhesion of the adhesive composition changes to take local maximum value, minimum value and a value greater than the local maximum value along with increase of irradiation amount of the electromagnetic wave or particle beam irradiated to the adhesive composition under a predetermined temperature environment. In a method for manufacturing a laminate according to the present invention allows for easy peeling of adherends and a layer of the adhesive composition when adhesion of the adhesive composition takes the minimum value. |
| US09267052B1 |
Sealing agent
Disclosed herein are coating agents and methods of manufacturing coated products with such coating agents. The disclosed coating agents may include at least one resin, at least one filler selected from the group comprising natural mineral and synthetic mineral, and at least one chemical agent, wherein the at least one chemical agent is at least one pigment selected from the group comprising inorganic pigment and organic pigment. |
| US09267050B2 |
Composition comprising microfibrillated cellulose and a process for the production of a composition
The present invention relates to a composition comprising microfibrillated cellulose, mono-, di- or oligo-saccharides and a pigment in order to achieve a composition with improved rheological properties such as a low viscosity even at high dry content. The present invention further relates to process for the production of said composition. |
| US09267049B2 |
Pigment preparation with metal effect pigments, method for the production of same and use of same
The invention relates to a pigment preparation with metal effect pigments, wherein the pigment preparation contains metal effect pigments the average size d50 of which lies in a range of from 1.7 to 2.8 μm and the average thickness h50 of which lies in a range of from 15 to 50 nm, as well as at least one polycarboxylic acid. In addition, the invention relates to a method for producing this pigment preparation as well as the use of same. |
| US09267033B2 |
Blends of biodegradable polymers and acrylic copolymers
The invention relates to a blend of one or more biodegradable polymers with one or more acrylic copolymers, for the purpose of improving the properties of the biodegradable polymer(s). The biodegradable polymer contains at least 10 weight percent of a biopolymer that is in less than ideal condition for processing. The “compromised” biopolymer may be undried biopolymer, may have a heat history (be “reprocessed”, “regrind” or “recycled”), or both. The acrylic copolymer(s) are present in the blend at a level of 0.1 to 15 weight percent, based on the weight of the total blend. |
| US09267028B2 |
Mixtures of crosslinking agents
The invention relates to a crosslinker composition comprising a reaction product of a cyclic urea U and a multifunctional aliphatic aldehyde A, and at least one crosslinker selected from the group consisting of reaction products of an aminotriazine and at least one aldehyde selected from the group consisting of aliphatic monoaldehydes and multifunctional aliphatic aldehydes having the structure Y(CHO)n, where Y is an n-functional aliphatic residue, and n is greater than 1; reaction products of urea and/or cyclic ureas and formaldehyde; alkoxycarbonyl-aminotriazines; multifunctional isocyanates which may be partially or completely blocked; reaction products of phenols and aliphatic monoaldehydes; multifunctional epoxides; multifunctional aziridines; and multifunctional carbodiimides, wherein any of the crosslinkers which have hydroxyl groups may be etherified with one or more linear, branched, or cyclic aliphatic alcohols. |
| US09267027B2 |
Resin compositions comprising lignin derivatives
The present invention provides derivatives of native lignin having an ethoxy content of 0.45 mmol/g or greater. Surprisingly, it has been found that phenolic resins comprising derivatives of native lignin having ethoxy contents have acceptable performance characteristics such as bondstrength. |
| US09267026B2 |
Slush molding composition
A thermoplastic polypropylene composition comprising polypropylene, a hydrogenated block copolymer, 3 to 6 wt % high density polyethylene, 5 to 10 wt % of a processing oil, and greater than or equal to 3 wt % of a surface modifier comprising an ultra high molecular weight polydialkyl siloxane, an ultra-high molecular weight polydialkyl siloxane in combination with silica, a polyolefin siloxane or a combination thereof, wherein weight percent is based on the total weight of the composition. |
| US09267021B2 |
Elastomer rubber and elastomer product that do not use vulcanization accelerator or sulfur
An elastomer composition comprising, an emulsion which comprises 25-30 weight % of acrylonitrile, 62-71 weight % of butadiene and 4-8 weight % of unsaturated carboxylic acid (total 100 weight %), wherein crosslink is formed by a bond through at least a part of substituent which is possessed by said unsaturated carboxylic acid, and residual substituent of at least one part of substituent which is possessed by said unsaturated carboxylic acid is left in state of free, further Mooney viscosity (ML(1+4)(100° C.)) of the crosslinked product is 100-220, wherein thin film gloves composed of said elastomer does not contain sulfur which is a crosslinking agent and sulfur composition which is a vulcanization accelerator, thickness is 0.05-0.15 mm, gloves swelling ratio at gloves formation is 240-320, tensile stress is 22-35 MPa, elongation to break is 480-620% and tensile stress at 500% elongation is 15-35 MPa. |
| US09267020B2 |
Rubber composition and pneumatic tire
A rubber composition that can improve in good balance the fuel economy, wet-grip performance, and abrasion resistance, and a pneumatic tire that uses this rubber composition are provided. This rubber composition contains a rubber component, and carbon black and/or silica, wherein based on 100% by mass of the rubber component, the rubber component contains 5 to 50% by mass of natural rubber, 0.3 to 10% by mass of an epoxidized natural rubber, and at least 5% by mass of a conjugated diene polymer that has a constituent unit based on a conjugated diene and a constituent unit represented by formula (I) below, at least one terminal of the polymer being modified, and wherein a total content of the carbon black and the silica is 3 to 100 parts by mass per 100 parts by mass of the rubber component. |
| US09267019B2 |
Functionalized silica for silica wet masterbatches and styrene butadiene rubber compositions
A rubber composition and a tire using the rubber composition utilizing a functionalized silica dry precipitated silica with a specific surface area in the range of 100 to 300 m2/gm treated with a plurality of silanes coupling agents to form a wet polymer silica masterbatch, then blending the masterbatch with a latex rubber component that includes a styrene-butadiene copolymer rubber or a blend of the styrene-butadiene copolymer rubber and another conjugated diene base rubber using a plurality of coupling agents simultaneously. |
| US09267009B2 |
Methods and systems of graft polymerization on a functionalized substrate
Graft polymerization is fullfiled on a functionalized substrate. The functionalized substrate is prepared from a disulfide bond-containing feedstock and has been prepared for polymerization through the introduction of one or more polyfunctional monomers containing a disulfide bond breaking material functional group. |
| US09267005B2 |
Flexible maleimide polymer and method for preparing the same
Disclosed is a flexible maleimide polymer. The flexible maleimide polymer includes a reaction product of reactants (a)-(c). The reactant (a) is maleimide, a compound with a structure represented by Formula (I), a compound with a structure represented by Formula (II), or combinations thereof wherein R1 is —(CH2)10—CO2H, and R2 is H, OH, SO3Na, NO2, CN or CO2H. The reactant (b) is a compound with a structure represented by formula (III) wherein A is R3 is H or methyl group, x is between 1-12, R4 is H or methyl group, and y and z are both between 1-5. The reactant (c) is a compound with a structure represented by formula (IV), or a compound with a structure represented by formula (V) wherein R5 and R6 are independent H or C1-4 alkyl group. |
| US09266998B2 |
Scratch-resistant-coated polycarbonates with high transparency, process for their production, and their use
The present invention relates to a process for the coating of polycarbonate substrates, in particular of transparent polycarbonate substrates, by applying a transparent coating composition encompassing at least one radiation-curing binder resin (A) and/or reactive diluent (C), nanoparticles (B), optionally solvent and at least one light stabilizer (L), to a polycarbonate substrate, wherein the coating composition comprises at least one light stabilizer (L) which comprises, per molecule, an average of at least one ethylenically unsaturated group bonded by way of a urethane group.The present invention also relates to the coating compositions used in said process, and to the coated polycarbonate substrates obtainable via the process, and to their use. |
| US09266996B2 |
Cellular structures and viscoelastic polyurethane foams
The present invention discloses a structure comprising a plurality of three dimensional cells, wherein each cell comprises exterior walls defining an interior void wherein the walls comprise a plurality of struts and windows, the struts forming borders for the plurality of windows, wherein the struts have a plurality of pores. The present invention further discloses a viscoelastic foam having a ratio of elastic modulus (E′) at 20° C. to 25% compression force deflection (CFD) of 25 to 125. |
| US09266994B2 |
Expandable polyurethane composition and manufacturing method of polyurethane foam
An expandable polyurethane composition contains (A) a polyisocyanate, (B) an active hydrogen containing compound containing (B1) a polyol and (B2) water, and (C) a cross-linking agent composition. The cross-linking agent composition (C) contains a cross-linking agent (C1) and a carboxylic acid (C2). The cross-linking agent (C1) can be selected from an alkanolamine (a) represented by an expression: HxR1yN((R2O)nH)3-x-y, and an aminosilane (b) represented by an expression: (R3O)qR43-qSi—R5—(NHCH2CH2)pNR6R7. A content of the cross-linking agent composition (C) is 0.1 parts by mass to 20 parts by mass relative to 100 parts by mass of the active hydrogen containing compound (B), and the containing number of moles of the cross-linking agent (C1) is larger than that of the carboxylic acid (C2). It is possible to delay a reaction without deteriorating a final reactivity, to suppress viscosity increasing just after an injection into a mold, to improve hardness and to attain lowering of a pressure to be applied to a cell communication. |
| US09266985B2 |
Silicone compound and a use thereof
One of the purposes of the present invention is to provide a silicone compound which has a specific number of silicon atoms, is well compatible with (meth)acryl monomers, is suitable as an ophthalmic monomer and provides a polymer having excellent durability of mechanical strength in a buffered phosphate solution. Another purpose of the present invention is to provide a silicone compound which functions well as a crosslinking agent for a polymerizable monomer. Further, another purpose is to provide a method for preparing the silicone compound, in particular the silicone compound having one specific structure at a high ratio. In the first aspect, the present invention provides a compound represented by the following formula (1-1): and a method for preparing the silicone compound. In the second aspect, the present invention provides a compound represented by the following formula (2-1): and a method for preparing the silicone compound. |
| US09266983B2 |
Catalyst composition and process for ethylene oligomerization
The present disclosure provides a catalyst composition for ethylene oligomerization including an imino ferrous complex shown in Formula (I) as the main catalyst, an aluminum-containing cocatalyst, water, and an organic solvent: According to the present disclosure, a higher oligomerization activity can be obtained with the catalyst composition than with a catalyst composition system in the prior art which contains no water. Moreover, when the catalyst composition according to the present disclosure is used, a high selectivity of α-olefins is obtainable. Besides, the catalyst composition according to the present disclosure can enable rapid initiation, stable operation, and good repeatability of the oligomerization reaction. According to the present disclosure, a high oligomerization activity can be obtained even at a rather low ratio of Al/Fe, or at a low reaction temperature. |
| US09266977B2 |
Bridged metallocene compounds, catalyst systems and processes for polymerization therewith
This invention relates to bridged metallocene compounds and catalyst systems comprising these bridged metallocene compounds. |
| US09266975B2 |
Continuous polymerization apparatus and process for producing polymer composition
The present invention provides a novel continuous polymerization apparatus which is able to efficiently produce a polymer composition suitable for obtaining a resin composition with high quality. In a continuous polymerization apparatus, at least, a first reactor of a complete mixing type and a second reactor of a complete mixing type (10, 20) are used. Each of the reactors (10, 20) is provided with a supply port (11a, 21a), an effluent port (11b, 21b), and a temperature detecting means (T) for detecting a temperature in the reactor, wherein the supply port (11a) of the first reactor (10) is connected to the supply sources (1, 3) of a raw material monomer and a polymerization initiator, and the effluent port (11b) of the first reactor is connected through a connection line (15) provided with a cooling means (16) to the supply port (21a) of the second reactor (20). The cooling means (16) is controlled to make the temperature in the connection line adjacent to the supply port (21a) of the second reactor lower than the temperature in the first reactor (10). |
| US09266973B2 |
Systems and methods for utilizing and recovering chitosan to process biological material
Systems and methods for processing biological material utilizing chitosan are provided herein. Methods may include the steps of reducing the pH of an amount of culture to about 5 to 7, incorporating an amount of a chitosan solution into the culture to form a mixture, wherein chitosan in the chitosan solution binds to the biological material; increasing the pH of the culture to about 7 to 10, to flocculate biological material in the culture, concentrating the flocculates, reducing the pH of the concentrated flocculates to about 3 to 5, and separating the recovered chitosan solution from the concentrated biological material. |
| US09266972B2 |
Polyrotaxane composition
The present invention aims to provide a polyrotaxane composition having excellent storage stability. The present invention relates to a polyrotaxane composition comprising: a polyrotaxane containing a cyclodextrin, a polyethylene glycol which is included in the cavities of the cyclodextrin molecules in a skewered manner, and a capping group that is placed at each end of the polyethylene glycol and prevents dissociation of the cyclodextrin molecules from the polyethylene glycol; and a polyphenol antioxidant. |
| US09266970B2 |
Hydroxypropylmethylcellulose having high thermal gel strength, method for producing the same and food comprising the hydroxypropylmethylcellulose
Provided is hydroxypropylmethylcellulose having a high thermal gelation temperature and a high thermal gel strength and a method for producing the same and a food comprising the hydroxypropylmethylcellulose. More specifically, provided is hydroxypropylmethylcellulose having an average substitution degree of a methoxy group of 1.0 to 2.0 per glucose unit, an average substitution degree of a hydroxypropoxy group of 0.05 to 0.4 per glucose unit, and a A/B value of 0.305 or greater wherein A represents a substitution degree of a methoxy group directly substituted for a hydroxy group on carbon at position 6 in a glucose unit free from a hydroxypropoxy group-substituted hydroxy group, B represents a substitution degree of a methoxy group per glucose unit, and the A/B represents a value of A divided by B. |
| US09266967B2 |
Bivalent, bispecific antibodies
The present invention relates to novel domain exchanged, bivalent, bispecific antibodies, their manufacture and use. |
| US09266959B2 |
Methods of treating neuroendocrine tumors using frizzled-binding agents
Novel methods of treating neuroendocrine tumors are provided. In one embodiment, the method comprises administering to a subject in need thereof a therapeutically effective dose of a Wnt antagonist. In one embodiment, the Wnt antagonist is an anti-FZD antibody. In another embodiment, the Wnt antagonist is a soluble FZD receptor polypeptide. In a further embodiment, the Wnt antagonist is an anti-Wnt antibody. |
| US09266957B2 |
Methods and materials for treating renal cell carcinoma and glioblastoma multiforme
This document provides methods and materials related to treating renal cell carcinoma. For example, methods and materials for assessing a cancer patient (e.g., a renal cell carcinoma patient) for tumor or peritumoral tissue containing CD14+ cells and proceeding with a cancer treatment option (e.g., a renal cell carcinoma treatment option) based on the presence, absence, or level of CD14+ cells present within the tumor or peritumoral tissue are provided. |
| US09266954B2 |
Methods for modulating D1-D2 dopamine receptor coupling and function
The present invention provides for prevention and/or treatment of neurological or neuropsychiatric disorders involving abnormal D1-D2 dopamine receptor coupling and/or activation. Methods and agents are provided for modulating dopamine receptor function arising from D1-D2 coupling and/or activation. Agents of the present invention include fragments of D2 receptor or D1 receptor that can disrupt D1-D2 coupling. |
| US09266951B2 |
Antagonist antibodies directed against calcitonin gene-related peptide and methods using same
The invention features methods for preventing or treating CGRP associated disorders such as vasomotor symptoms, including headaches (e.g., migraine, cluster headache, and tension headache) and hot flushes, by administering an anti-CGRP antagonist antibody. Antagonist antibody G1 and antibodies derived from G1 directed to CGRP are also described. |
| US09266949B2 |
Low acidic species compositions and methods for producing and using the same
The instant invention relates to low acidic species (AR) compositions comprising a protein, e.g., an antibody, or antigen-binding portion thereof, and methods, e.g., cell culture and/or protein purification methods, for producing such low AR compositions. Methods for using such compositions to treat a disorder, e.g., a disorder in which TNFα is detrimental, are also provided. |
| US09266948B2 |
Anti-Bv8 antibodies and uses thereof
The present invention concerns antibodies to Bv8 and the uses of same. |