| Document | Document Title |
|---|---|
| US09286020B2 |
System and method for dynamic load sharing between electronic displays
A system and method for allocating power to a plurality of displays is disclosed. An exemplary system preferably includes an AC current sensor, a power load sharing controller, ambient light sensors for each display, and a brightness controller for each display. A maximum total current draw may be selected. The ambient light contacting each display may be measured and a corresponding desired brightness calculated. Depending on the present amount of current draw, the system determines if the displays can be driven at the desired brightness without exceeding the maximum total current draw. If yes, the displays are driven at their desired brightness. If no, the desired brightness for each display may be slightly reduced to prevent exceeding the maximum total current draw. Thus, as the ambient light varies between the displays, the available power may be shared. |
| US09286019B2 |
Image processing apparatus, image processing system, and computer readable medium therefor
An image processing apparatus is provided that includes a controller configured to control a communication device to transmit, to an information processing terminal device, image processing information indicating a specific one of image processing operations that has been selected at a time when the controller starts establishment of communication with the information processing terminal device, control the communication device to receive execution instructing information from the information processing terminal device, and control a specific one of image processing executing devices that corresponds to the received execution instructing information to execute the specific image processing operation in accordance with the received execution instructing information. |
| US09286015B2 |
Printing apparatus, printing method, and computer readable medium
A printing apparatus includes a printing data storing unit and a printing order adjusting unit. The printing data storing unit stores received printing data. The printing order adjusting unit adjusts an order of printing of printing data received through short-range radio communication to be higher than an order of printing of printing data stored in the printing data storing unit. |
| US09286013B2 |
Print service
In an example implementation, a processor-readable medium stores code representing instructions that when executed by a processor cause the processor to receive at a print service, a print user interface (UI) request that identifies a web-enabled printer and a print access device, generate a native print UI document that includes print applications registered to the web-enabled printer, convert the native print UI document into a customized print UI document formatted in a UI description language supported by the print access device, and send the customized print UI document from the print service to the print access device. |
| US09286009B2 |
Printing apparatus capable of performing direct wireless communication, method for controlling printing apparatus, and storage medium
An information processing apparatus, in which a first port, through which a communication is permitted, and a second port, through which a communication is permitted when a specific condition is satisfied, are set, includes a reception unit, a determination unit, and a control unit. The reception unit receives data transmitted from an external apparatus. The determination unit determines whether the data satisfies the specific condition when the second port is used to receive the data. The control unit permits processing of the received data when the reception unit receives the data by using the first port or when the determination unit determines that the data satisfies the specific condition, and prohibits the processing of the data when the reception unit receives the data by using a port that is not the first or second port, or when the determination unit determines that the data does not satisfy the specific condition. |
| US09286008B2 |
Job management apparatus connected to an external storage via a network, including a storage management unit that determines whether to store job data in the external storage based on predetermined transfer condition
A job management apparatus connected to an external storage via a network, includes a storage management unit that determines whether to store job data of a job to be executed by an electronic device in the external storage based on a predetermined transfer condition; and a job management unit that stores the job data in the external storage when the storage management unit determines to store the job data in the external storage. |
| US09286003B1 |
Method and apparatus for creating a short hash handle highly correlated with a globally-unique hash signature
Example embodiments of the present invention relate and a method and an apparatus for managing a short hash handle. The method including receiving an I/O including a first identifier for a data block and examining the first identifier in comparison with a second identifier. The data block identified in the I/O then may be managed according to the first identifier and the second identifier. |
| US09285998B2 |
Tiered caching and migration in differing granularities
For data processing in a distributed computing storage environment by a processor device, the distributed computing environment incorporating at least high-speed and lower-speed caches, and managed tiered levels of storage, groups of data segments and clumped hot ones of the data segments are migrated between the tiered levels of storage such that uniformly hot ones of the groups of data segments are migrated to use a Solid State Drive (SSD) portion of the tiered levels of storage; uniformly hot groups of data segments are determined using a first, largest granulated, heat map for a selected one of the group of the data segments; and a second heat map, which is smaller than the first and having the largest granularity of the first heat map, is used to determine the clumped hot groups. |
| US09285996B2 |
Tape drive buffer utilization
Various embodiments for improving tape drive efficiency using a processor device are provided. In one embodiment, a method comprises aggregating one of records and filemarks, the aggregating restricted to being performed only on read operations, from a plurality of data segments into at least one single data segment, including sequentially aggregating the one of the records and filemarks into the at least one single data segment. |
| US09285995B2 |
Processor agnostic data storage in a PCIE based shared storage environment
A controller device associated with a disk array that comprises a plurality of storage devices and a processor receives a request from a host machine that is at a remote location from the disk array. The controller device determines that the request is a data request or a control request based on metadata of the request. Responsive to determining that the request is a data request the controller device converts a format of the data request from a first format to a second format that is compatible with the plurality of storage devices. The data request is then routed in the second format directly to at least one storage device of the plurality of storage devices. |
| US09285994B2 |
Block-level predictive data migration
A method for migrating data in a tiered storage architecture is disclosed. In one embodiment, such a method includes tracking the temperature of data blocks in a tiered storage architecture, where the temperature indicates the frequency the data blocks are accessed. Heat maps are generated that indicate the temperature of the data blocks across different time intervals. These heat maps are compared to identify temperature patterns that may occur over time. The temperature patterns, in turn, may be used to predict when selected data blocks will change in temperature. Data blocks may be migrated between tiers of the tiered storage architecture in anticipation of the predicated changes in temperature. A corresponding system and computer program product are also disclosed. |
| US09285990B2 |
System and method for displaying keypad via various types of gestures
A system and method of receiving various types of gestures and displays corresponding keypads on the mobile device are provided. The method includes receiving a keypad calling command, and arranging and displaying one or more keypad blocks on the screen of the mobile device, according to a track of the keypad calling command. The keypad display system includes an input unit for receiving a user's input, and a controller for determining whether the user's input is a keypad calling command, and for arranging and displaying one or more keypad blocks on the screen, according to a track of the keypad calling command. |
| US09285989B2 |
Mobile terminal and method of controlling the same
A mobile terminal and a method of controlling the same are provided. The method includes receiving a touch input from a side area on a touch screen for more than a predefined amount of time; setting a touch-lock area on the touch screen based on an area of the detection of the touch input; and displaying the touch-lock area differently from the rest of the touch screen so as to be easily distinguishable. Therefore, it is possible to effectively set a touch-lock area on the touch screen and thus to prevent the mobile terminal from performing an operation against the will of a user. |
| US09285986B2 |
Method for controlling icon display in mobile terminal and mobile terminal thereof
The present disclosure relates to a method for controlling an icon display in a mobile terminal and a mobile terminal thereof, wherein the method comprises: generating a plurality of menu screens having a plurality of icons and displaying a first menu screen on a touch screen, the first menu screen being at least one of the plurality of menu screens; additionally displaying a set-up menu screen which is stored in a memory of the mobile terminal, the set-up menu screen including a menu icon; displaying a second menu screen if a flicking signal is generated on the first menu; and displaying an instant icon of a selected menu icon on the second menu icon if the selected menu icon of the set-up menu screen is moved to the second menu screen. |
| US09285984B2 |
Information processing apparatus and computer readable medium
An information processing apparatus includes: an image pickup unit, a recognition unit and an execution unit. The image pickup unit photographs a recording medium to generate a picked-up image. The recognition unit recognizes a handwritten mark in the picked-up image generated by the image pickup unit. The execution unit performs a predetermined process according to the handwritten mark recognized by the recognized unit. |
| US09285978B2 |
Using a scroll bar in a multiple panel user interface
A method for using a scroll bar in a multiple panel user interface. The method includes determining that two or more panels are displayed on a user interface, the two or more panels operated by a same scroll bar. The method includes detecting a cursor movement over the same scroll bar and responsive to the cursor movement over the scroll bar, displaying an icon. The method includes receiving an active panel selection via the icon and indicating the selected panel is active. The method further includes detecting movement of the same scroll bar on the selected panel and scrolling a displayed content of the selected panel corresponding to the movement of the same scroll bar. |
| US09285977B1 |
Card based package for distributing electronic media and services
A variety of data structures, components, runtime viewers and methods are described for defining, delivering and rendering wrapped packages of cards in a manner that is particularly well suited, but not limited to, display on mobile devices. Each card may selectively include media content, and a palette of application functionality and/or supporting e-commerce related services. The cards of the wrap packages are ideally threaded together into one or more linear sequences, and authored to convey a book-like narrative that unfolds as the cards are sequentially browsed. In addition, the wrap packages are portable objects that are readily distributed, similar to other electronic messages, through e-mail, messaging, social-media, or via a variety of other electronic communication platforms. As a result, wrap packages are consumable, sharable and savable objects. |
| US09285976B2 |
User interface device capable of image scrolling not accompanying finger movement, image scrolling method, and program
A process is disclosed of scrolling an image on a user interface device configured to display the image on a display screen and enable a user to input with the user's finger touch on a touch screen in association with the displayed image, the process including: scrolling the image in response to the finger's drag motion on the touch screen; and, in response to an event occurring in which, after the drag motion ended, the finger is held in touch with the touch screen at substantially the same location as where the finger was located when the drag motion ended, without releasing from the touch screen, further scrolling the image to perform follow-up scrolling, after experiencing an idle period or not. |
| US09285974B2 |
Application builder platform
An interface for configuring an interaction site is provided. First values corresponding to first parameters of an interaction page of the one or more interaction pages are received. Recommended interaction pages for the interaction site are selected based on the first values. An interface for selecting any interaction page of the recommended interaction pages is provided. Data indicating a selection of a particular interaction page is received. In response to receiving the data indicating the selection of the particular interaction page, an interface for configuring the particular interaction page is provided. Second values corresponding to second parameters of the particular interaction page are received. A second multi-step communication flow is determined based on (i) values corresponding to the parameters associated with the first multi-step communication flow and (ii) the second values. An interaction flow document including code for the interaction site specifying the second multi-step communication flow is generated. |
| US09285972B2 |
Size adjustment control for user interface elements
A knob element associated with a user interface element in a graphical user interface can be translated in response to a rotational user input motion. As the knob element is translated around the user interface element, a change in the size of the user interface element can occur that is at least in part based on amount of rotational distance. |
| US09285969B2 |
User interface navigation utilizing pressure-sensitive touch
An approach is provided to direct data to different applications based upon the amount of pressure applied by a user of a pressure sensitive touch-enabled screen. In this approach, a touch input is received at a location of the pressure sensitive touch-enabled screen. The various applications currently being displayed at the location are identified along with the physical pressure level (amount of pressure applied) at the location on the pressure sensitive touch-enabled screen. One of the applications running on the device is selected based on the amount of pressure applied and the touch-based input provided by the user is directed to the selected application. |
| US09285968B2 |
User interface including content from a remote device
A user interface displayed by an electronic device can include a first user-interface portion generated by the electronic device and a second user interface portion generated by a remote device. The electronic device can detect received input and determine whether the input corresponds to an interactive element in the first user-interface portion or an interactive element in the second user interface portion. If the input corresponds to an interactive element in the first user-interface portion, the electronic device can generate a response to the input. If the input corresponds to an interactive element in the second user-interface portion, the electronic device can transmit information indicative of the input to the remote device. |
| US09285962B2 |
Display with shared control panel for different input sources
A computer system associated with a display and for receiving control inputs from at least two separately identifiable input sources, and adapted to display a shared control panel for the input sources, the shared control panel being associated with an application running on the computer system, the computer system being further adapted to allocate a functionality to one of the identifiable input sources in response to a selection of a function displayed in the shared control panel by said identifiable input source. |
| US09285960B2 |
Business intelligence dashboard assembly tool with indications of relationships among content elements
In one example, a method comprises rendering a dashboard assembly user interface comprising a canvas section and a resource section, the resource section comprising one or more resource content elements, and the canvas section comprising one or more dashboard content elements. The dashboard assembly user interface enables resource content elements to be selectably added to the canvas section as dashboard content elements in response to user inputs, thereby configuring a business intelligence dashboard. The method further comprises searching for relationships between information associated with the one or more resource content elements and information associated with the one or more dashboard content elements; and, for a first resource content element from among the resource content elements that has a relationship with a first dashboard content element from among the dashboard content elements, rendering a visual indication of the relationship between the first resource content element and the first dashboard content element. |
| US09285959B2 |
Transitioning pages of paginated content displayed by a computing device
A given page of an e-book is displayed when an input is detected that is sustained for an amount of time that exceeds a threshold. After the amount of time exceeding the threshold, the pages of the e-book are transitioned by clusters or chapters. The transitioning by clusters or chapters can be sustained for some duration that is determined by, for example, the duration of time during which the input is sustained. |
| US09285957B2 |
Window stack models for multi-screen displays
Systems and methods are provides for creating a window stack for a multi-screen device. The stack is an arrangement of an active window and at least one other active or inactive window for at least one of the two displays. The system can receive activation of a window in the device. Upon activation of the window, the system can determine a display associated with the active window and can determine a position in the window stack for the active window. Then, the system can generate a logic data structure for the active window to describe the position of the active window in the window stack. |
| US09285953B2 |
Display apparatus and method for inputting characters thereof
A display apparatus and a method for inputting characters thereof are provided. The display apparatus includes: a display unit which displays a character input UI including a plurality of character items, each character item comprising a border and a character located in the border, an input unit which receives a user command to select one of the plurality of character items, and, a controller which, if a first character item is selected from among the plurality of character items through the input unit, controls the display unit to display at least one recommended character item associated with the first character to partially overlap with character items adjacent to the first character item. Accordingly, a user can input characters more easily using the character input UI. |
| US09285952B2 |
Method and apparatus for operation of a computing device
A method and computing device are provided for showing affordance of list scroll-ability within a display of a computing device. As part of the rendering process of the graphical user interface a user is prompted through the provision of additional data to that ultimately displayed to consider that the final displayed list is a subset of data which may be accessed through the graphical user interface. |
| US09285941B2 |
Liquid crystal display
A liquid crystal display includes a liquid crystal panel, a backlight assembly, and a digitizer module. The liquid crystal panel is configured to display an image. The backlight assembly includes: a light emitting diode configured to provide light to the liquid crystal panel; and a light guide configured to guide the light from the light emitting diode towards the liquid crystal panel. The digitizer module includes: a sensor board and a supporting substrate configured to support the sensor board. The backlight assembly is disposed between the liquid crystal panel and the supporting substrate. A size of the supporting substrate is greater than a size of the sensor board. The light emitting diode and the sensor board are disposed on the supporting substrate. |
| US09285936B2 |
Display apparatus and method of driving the same
A display apparatus is disclosed. In one aspect the apparatus includes a touch panel, an information processor, a memory and a display panel. The touch panel generates a current touch signal including a current touch position of a touch. The information processor receives the current touch signal from the touch panel and a stored touch signal to compare the stored touch signal with the current touch signal to generate dynamic luminance information. The memory receives the current touch signal from the information processor to store the current touch signal as the stored touch signal. The display panel receives the dynamic luminance information from the information processor to display an image having different luminances in an emphasizing region corresponding to the current touch signal and the stored touch signal and a background region surrounding the emphasizing region, respectively. |
| US09285932B1 |
Negative touch recovery for mutual capacitance scanning systems
A device stores running baseline measurements and initial baseline measurements for a plurality of touch sensors. The device repeatedly takes measurements from the touch sensors during device operation, and counts a number of positive transitions of the measurements, and counts a number of negative transitions of the measurements, the transitions relative to the stored initial baseline measurements. The device re-initializes the stored initial baseline measurements if and only if the count of negative transitions differs from the count of positive transitions by a predetermined amount (a “negative touch state”). |
| US09285928B2 |
Touch detection method and related optical touch system
An optical touch system includes a touch screen; a plurality of light sources for periodically emitting light; a light-emitting element for periodically emitting light when the plurality of light sources are not emitting light; a light-reflecting element, for reflecting light emitted by the plurality of light sources; a plurality of lenses, for capturing a first image during a period when the plurality of light sources are emitting light and capturing a second image during a period when the plurality of light sources are not emitting light; and a processing unit. The processing unit includes a control unit for controlling the plurality of light sources and the light-emitting element; and a computation unit for computing a first location in which the light-emitting element is located and a second location in which the light-reflecting element is located on the touch screen according to the first image and the second image. |
| US09285924B2 |
Information processing method and electronic device
An information processing method and an electronic device are disclosed. The method is applied to an electronic device, the electronic device includes a display unit and a detection unit, and the detection unit can detect at least an operating body having a distance from a surface of the display unit within a predetermined space range. The method includes: detecting whether there is a first operating body within a predetermined space range, and generating a detection result; acquiring first operating information corresponding to the first operating body if the detection result indicates that there is the first operating body within the predetermined space range; generating an adjustment instruction based on the first operating information; and adjusting a display parameter of the first display object based on the adjustment instruction. |
| US09285921B2 |
Touch panel display device and driving method thereof
A touch panel display device and a driving method thereof are disclosed. The touch panel display device and the driving method thereof sense illumination of external light using a photo-sensor formed on a touch panel, and control a PWM duty of a light source suited to each mode when the sensed illumination of external light corresponds to illumination in a gray zone to be a difference between the illumination of light created by the light source and that of external light, thereby improving touch recognition capability in a gray zone. |
| US09285915B2 |
Method of touch command integration and touch system using the same
A touch command integration method for a touch sense device includes establishing at least one communication connection with at least one first touch sense device, detecting at least one relative location of the at least one first touch sense device relative to the touch sense device, and controlling the at least one first touch sense device via the at least one communication connection according to the at least one relative location, to allow the at least one first touch sense device and the touch sense device to be integrated into a second touch sense device. |
| US09285912B2 |
Time-division driving type touch sensing device and method for driving the same
A touch sensing display device supporting a pixel driving period and a touch driving period in each frame period. The device comprises a display panel having data lines and touch sensing lines, the data lines coupled to pixels of the display panel. A data driving circuit drives data signals onto the data lines during the pixel driving period of the frame period. A touch readout circuit generates touch data of signals of the touch sensing lines during the touch driving period of the frame period, the touch driving period distinct of the pixel driving period. A supply voltage of the data driving circuit can be cut off during the touch driving period, and a supply voltage of the touch readout circuit can be cut off during the pixel driving period. |
| US09285910B2 |
In-cell type touch display device including switching part and method of driving the same
An in-cell type touch display device includes a panel including a plurality of electrodes, a display driver integrated circuit (IC) and a switching part, the plurality of electrodes being divided into a plurality of groups; and a touch IC generating a touch scan signal and applying the touch scan signal into the switching part, wherein the display driver IC generates a common voltage and applies the common voltage into the switching part, and wherein the switching part applies the common voltage into the plurality of electrodes or sequentially applies the touch scan signal into the electrodes in the plurality of groups according to a driving mode of the panel. |
| US09285909B2 |
Equalizing parasitic capacitance effects in touch screens
Reduction of the effects of differences in parasitic capacitances in touch screens is provided. A touch screen can include multiple display pixels with stackups that each include a first element and a second element. For example, the first element can be a common electrode, and the second element can be a data line. The display pixels can include a first display pixel including a third element connected to the first element, and the third element can contribute to a first parasitic capacitance between the first and second elements of the first display pixel, for example, by overlapping with the second element. The touch screen can also include a second display pixel lacking the third element. The second display pixel can include a second parasitic capacitance between the first and second elements of the second display pixel. The first and second parasitic capacitances can be substantially equal, for example. |
| US09285908B2 |
Event recognition
A method executes software including a view hierarchy with a plurality of views which displays one or more views of the view hierarchy. The method executes software elements associated with a particular view, wherein each particular view includes event recognizers. Each event recognizer has an event definition based on sub-events, and an event handler that specifies an action for a target, and is configured to send the action to the target in response to an event recognition. The method detects a sequence of sub-events, and identifies one of the views of the view hierarchy as a hit view that establishes which views in the hierarchy are actively involved views. The method delivers a respective sub-event to event recognizers for each actively involved view, wherein each event recognizer for actively involved views in the view hierarchy processes the respective sub-event prior to processing a next sub-event in the sequence of sub-events. |
| US09285906B2 |
Information processing apparatus, information display system and information display method
An information processing apparatus include a position detecting unit that detects positions of a plurality of users existing in a detection target area; a calculating unit that calculates a plurality of feature quantities representing a relation between the positions of the users detected by the position detecting unit and a projection plane on which a projection image is projected; and a determining unit that determines display control processing for the projection image depending on the feature quantities calculated by the calculating unit. |
| US09285903B1 |
Stylus and electronic display
A device comprising a magnetic stylus, touch sensor, and reflective display provides new opportunities for content presentation and interaction. A user interface is configured to use input from the stylus and touch sensor to modify content presented on the reflective display. |
| US09285901B2 |
Electronic device for recognizing asynchronous digital pen and recognizing method thereof
An electronic device for receiving an input by a digital pen having a waveform generation means is provided. The electronic device includes at least three reception sensors and a processor. The at least three reception sensors are installed in the electronic device at positions that are separated from one another, and are configured to receive a waveform generated by the waveform generator of the digital pen. The processor is configured to calculate an input coordinate of the digital pen using a difference of velocities and reception times of the waveform received by the at least three reception sensors. |
| US09285900B2 |
Touch pen using delay device and touch input method thereof and touch input system and method thereof
A touch pen using a delay device and a touch input method thereof and a touch input system and a method thereof are provided. The touch pen includes a body, an antenna embedded on the body configured to receive a wireless signal from a mobile terminal, and a delay device configured to receive the wireless signal from the antenna and to output a reflection signal, corresponding to the received wireless signal, to the antenna after a predetermined time elapses, wherein the antenna transmits the reflection signal to the mobile terminal. |
| US09285894B1 |
Multi-path reduction for optical time-of-flight
Described herein are systems and devices for mitigating multi-path interference in optical time-of-flight systems. An input surface is configured with a pattern comprising predominately low albedo material and a plurality of decimated high albedo features. The low albedo material is configured to minimize reflectance of light emitted by an emitter. The high albedo material is configured to reflect more of the light than the low albedo material. The low and high albedo materials, or an additional material, may be used to provide a high albedo material in visible light wavelengths, configured for use as a projection surface. |
| US09285889B2 |
Electrode arrangement for a keyboard proximity and tracking sensor
A keyboard assembly includes a transmitter electrode and one or more receiver electrodes that are used to generate an electric field above one or more keys of the assembly. The first electrode is located on a first level of a keyboard assembly and the second electrode is located on a second level of the keyboard assembly. The first level may correspond to a support plate of the assembly and the second level may correspond to a surface of a printed circuit board to which the second electrode is coupled. Alternatively, the first and second levels may correspond to different sides of a frame of the keyboard assembly. Disturbances in the electric field may be detected to perform a control operation of a host device that includes or is coupled to the keyboard assembly. |
| US09285888B2 |
System and methods for enhanced remote control functionality
A hand-held device having a touch sensitive surface uses a relative distance from an origin location to each of a plurality of touch zones of the touch sensitive surface activated by a user to select a one of the plurality of touch zones as being intended for activation by the user. |
| US09285887B2 |
Gesture recognition system and gesture recognition method thereof
A gesture recognition system is disclosed. The gesture recognition system comprises at least one lighting module, at least one angle detecting module, an image capturing module and a gesture information control module. The lighting module is used for emitting a light. The angle detecting module receives a reflected light of the light and accordingly outputs a light sensing signal. The image capturing module is used for capturing at least one 2-D reference image for at least one hand of the user. The distance between the angle detecting module and the image capturing module is a fixed length. The gesture information control module acquires a plurality of angle data according to the light sensing signal and the 2-D reference image to calculate at least one depth data for at least one hand according to the plurality of angle data and the fixed length, so as to recognize the gestures. |
| US09285883B2 |
System and method to display content based on viewing orientation
An apparatus and method for displaying content is disclosed. A particular method includes determining a viewing orientation of a user relative to a display and providing a portion of content to the display based on the viewing orientation. The portion includes at least a first viewable element of the content and does not include at least one second viewable element of the content. The method also includes determining an updated viewing orientation of the user and updating the portion of the content based on the updated viewing orientation. The updated portion includes at least the second viewable element. A display difference between the portion and the updated portion is non-linearly related to an orientation difference between the viewing orientation and the updated viewing orientation. |
| US09285880B2 |
Touch panel device and method of controlling a touch panel device
An apparatus including: a panel; actuators; a movement input determining unit which calculates movement directions and distances of touch positions, based on time-series information of the touch positions; a display unit; a direction determining unit which determines a direction of an object included in the content item with respect to the display unit; a vibration position determining unit which determines a first touch position closer/closest to the object and one or more second touch positions detected simultaneously; a vibration determining unit which determines a tactile feedback signal presenting a vibration for the first touch position, based on the object direction; a multi-point simultaneous vibration control unit which performs control for presenting the vibration at the first touch position and not presenting the vibration at the second touch positions; and a content control unit which enables display of the content item by scrolling it based on the movement directions and distances. |
| US09285872B1 |
Using head gesture and eye position to wake a head mounted device
Embodiments described herein may help to provide a wake-up mechanism for a computing device. An example method involves, the computing device: (a) receiving head-movement data that is indicative of head movement; (b) detecting at least a portion of the head-movement data that is indicative of a head gesture; (c) receiving eye-position data that is indicative of eye position; (d) detecting at least a portion of the eye-position data that is indicative of an eye being directed towards a display of a head-mounted device (HMD); and (e) causing the HMD to switch from a first operating mode to a second operating mode in response to the detection of both: (i) the eye-movement data that is indicative of an eye directed towards the display, and (ii) the head-movement data indicative of the head gesture. |
| US09285869B2 |
System, method and computer readable medium for invoking applications
When a user clicks a widget, such as a button, to invoke a widget behavior in a web page, an overlay module may delay the invoking of the widget behavior while executing a stimulatory effect. The stimulatory effect may be a visual effect, such as a gradual fill of the button, that stimulates the user to provide a re-click. A re-click can cause the stimulatory effect to conclude and to invoke the widget behavior. The re-click event, based on human impatience, may be determined to be an indicator of a human user. |
| US09285867B2 |
Device that manages power provided to an object sensor
A hand-held device with a sensor for providing a signal indicative of a position of the hand-held device relative to an object surface enables power to the sensor at a first time interval when the hand-held device is indicated to be in a position that is stationary and adjacent relative to the object surface, enables power to the sensor at a second time interval shorter than the first time interval when the hand-held device is indicated to be in a position that is moving and adjacent relative to the object surface, and enables power to the sensor at a third time interval when the hand-held device is determined to be in a position that is removed relative to the object surface. |
| US09285866B2 |
Information processing apparatus with power shutoff switch and control method therefor for reducing power consumption in an image forming apparatus
An information processing apparatus includes a switching unit configured to be an ON-state in which power is supplied to the information processing apparatus and an OFF-state in which power is not supplied to the information processing apparatus, a driving unit configured to set the switching unit to the off-state, a voltage supply unit configured to apply a voltage to the driving unit, and a control unit configured to, in a case where a condition for shutting off the supply of power to the information processing apparatus is satisfied, perform control to apply the voltage from the voltage supply unit to the driving unit, and, after the voltage is applied to the driving unit, control the driving unit to set the switching unit to the off-state. |
| US09285865B2 |
Dynamic link scaling based on bandwidth utilization
Systems and methods for reducing power consumption during data transport across multiple processors when link utilization is low. In a multi-node system, at least one of two nodes may indicate low utilization for a given link between them. In response to further determining no enabled link between the two nodes is over utilized, each of the two nodes may remove the given link from consideration for being scheduled to receive data for transfer and turn off the given link when no more transactions are scheduled for the given link. Disabled links may be re-enabled when high utilization is detected on at least one link between the two nodes. |
| US09285864B2 |
Mobile terminal device, medium and control method
A mobile terminal device includes a first processor that processes data acquired by a sensor, and a second processor that transmits the data acquired by the sensor to the first processor. The first processor acquires a transmission condition corresponding to state information of the mobile terminal with reference to association information and transmits the transmission condition to the second processor. The association information associates a transmission condition with state information. The transmission condition is a condition for transmitting the data acquired by the sensor from the second processor to the first processor. The second processor transmits the data acquired by the sensor to the first processor in accordance with the transmission condition transmitted by the first processor. |
| US09285860B2 |
Apparatus and methods employing variable clock gating hysteresis for a communications port
An apparatus includes a communications port configured to communicate over a bus responsive to a clock signal and a clock signal generation circuit configured to generate the clock signal and to vary a gating hysteresis of the clock signal responsive to a control input, such as a communications transaction of the port. The clock signal generation circuit may be configured to vary the gating hysteresis of the clock signal based on an attribute of the transaction, such as an address of the transaction and/or a payload communicated in the transaction. |
| US09285858B2 |
Methods for monitoring and adjusting performance of a mobile computing device
Methods are provided for monitoring and adjusting performance of a mobile computing device having a windowing system. The windowing system is advantageously employed for both purposes. It generates performance data related to an application executed by a processor of the device and provides the performance data to a DFVS module of the device, which in turn determines the operating point of the device based on that data. As a consequence, the DFVS refrains from scaling-down the operating frequency of the processor in certain cases wherein idleness of the processor might provoke such a scale-down by a DVFS module that was informed only of application-agnostic performance data. The avoidance of inappropriate scale-downs may, for instance, improve the perceived smoothness of a progression of images presented on a display unit of the device. |
| US09285857B2 |
Application idle current drain measurement
A device may identify an exhibited idle mode current draw according to test results representative of measured current usage associated with execution of an application under test on a test mobile device in communication with a live communications network of a network service provider; determine a battery consumption rating associated with the application under test according to the idle mode current draw and predetermined rating criteria; and update a listing of application ratings based on the determined battery consumption rating of the application under test. |
| US09285853B2 |
Providing power to integrated electronics within a cable
A method of providing power to electronics within a cable is described. The method may include communicatively coupling a first device to a second device via a cable. The cable may include electronic components integrated within the cable. The method may also include providing a signal from the first device to the second device. The method may also include providing, via an internal power line within the cable, power to the integrated electronic components. The method may also include providing, via a device power line within the cable, power between the first device and the second device, wherein the internal power line and the device power line are electrically isolated from one another inside the cable. |
| US09285848B2 |
Power reception control device, power reception device, power transmission and reception system, and electronic device
Provided is a power reception device in which power consumption at the time of wireless power supply is reduced. A power reception device is provided with a power reception control device capable of temporarily stopping supply of power supply voltage to a communication control unit for controlling communication in a break period of communication intermittently performed between a power transmission device and a power reception device. In the structure, a clock signal is generated on the basis of a power receiving signal transmitted from the power transmission device, and a period of communication intermittently performed can be measured using the clock signal. Further, a structure may be employed in which supply of power supply voltage to the communication unit in the power reception control device can be stopped in the break period of the communication. |
| US09285844B2 |
Chassis with horizontal plugged frames and communication device
A chassis with horizontal plugged frames includes an air inlet, a board area, a first air chamber, a second air chamber, and an air outlet. The air inlet is set in the board area and is linked to the first air chamber; the air outlet is set on a wall of the second air chamber where the second air chamber contacts external air; and the first air chamber is located on one side of the board area, and the second air chamber is located on the other side of the board area. |
| US09285843B2 |
Electronic device
An electronic device includes a housing defining an exterior of the electronic device, the housing accommodating a main board, a metal plate coupled to the housing, and a battery attached to the metal plate, the battery being electrically connected to the main board. |
| US09285840B2 |
Detachable sensory-interface device for a wireless personal communication device and method
A system and method that utilizes a protective sensor-interface apparatus, which removably connects and interfaces to a mobile electronic device, enabling users to more readily access and engage mobile content and data. The present invention provides a method and device wherein the user interfaces with digital content by using touch-sensitive areas on the back and sides of a protective case that interfaces with the mobile device, the software application and other users. This enables additional features that can be customized by users and developers for enhanced sensory experiences and digital rights management by creating components of a separate environment that exists in the case. |
| US09285834B2 |
Mobile writer for erasable media
A mobile imaging system includes an erasable medium and an imaging device. The erasable medium can be a UV imageable photochromic medium. The imaging device includes an input for generating imageable content in the device, a sensor for detecting and interpreting interaction of the device with respect to an imageable surface of the erasable medium, and an imaging component, responsive to the sensor, for outputting the generated content onto the imageable surface of the erasable medium. |
| US09285833B2 |
Trimless glass enclosure interface
An enclosure for a portable computing device can include a cover glass affixed to an enclosure without trim pieces disposed between the cover glass and the disclosure. In one embodiment, the enclosure can include an edge profile that can define a relatively large contact pad about the enclosure. The contact pad can distribute impact forces over a relatively large area and thereby protect the cover glass integrity. |
| US09285832B2 |
Electronic equipment security device
A security system for securing a component, the security system comprising: a security device securing the component; and a pivot assembly securing the security device to a support, the pivot assembly comprising an alignment mechanism enabling the security device to rotate between at least a first orientation and a second orientation. |
| US09285830B2 |
Interchangeable battery wearable device
A wearable device for sensing and transmitting physical activities of a user to a computing device is provided. The wearable device includes a first wristband worn around the wrist of the user, a left connecter assembly attached to the first wristband, a center assembly having sensors for sensing physical activities of the user attached to the left connecter assembly, a right connecter assembly attached to the center assembly and a second wristband worn interchangeably on the exhaustion of the primary battery inside the center assembly. The center assembly includes one or more sensors for sensing user activities. Examples of sensors include but not limited to heart rate sensor and the galvanic sensor. Further, the center assembly also includes a finger sensor to measure heart rate. |
| US09285829B2 |
Mobile terminal
A mobile terminal includes a window having a pattern formed to recognize a user's touch input, a key region formed on one surface of the window, and a key body assembly disposed on the other surface of the window to be laminated on the key region, and the key body assembly has one surface equipped with at least one recess member or protrusion member and the other surface equipped with a key body coupled to a light guide film, whereby the mobile terminal can have a distinguished attraction and a quality-enhanced appearance. |
| US09285821B2 |
Negative reference voltage generating circuit and negative reference voltage generating system using the same
A negative reference voltage generating circuit includes a clamp-type reference voltage circuit and a differential amplifier. The clamp-type reference voltage circuit is connected between a node of a first negative voltage which is equal to or lower than the ground voltage and a node of a second negative voltage which is lower than the first negative voltage, and is formed by connecting a first circuit and a second circuit in parallel. The differential amplifier amplifies the difference between a node voltage in the first circuit and a node voltage in the second circuit, and outputs a negative reference voltage. |
| US09285820B2 |
Ultra-low noise voltage reference circuit
A voltage reference circuit comprises a plurality of ΔVBE cells, each comprising four bipolar junction transistors (BJTs) connected in a cross-quad configuration and arranged to generate a ΔVBE voltage. The plurality of ΔVBE cells are stacked such that their ΔVBE voltages are summed. A last stage is coupled to the summed ΔVBE voltages and arranged to generate one or more VBE voltages which are summed with the ΔVBE voltages to provide a reference voltage. This arrangement serves to cancel out first-order noise and mismatch associated with the two current sources present in each ΔVBE cell, such that the voltage reference circuit provides ultra-low 1/f noise in the bandgap voltage output. |
| US09285816B2 |
Harvesting power from DC (direct current) sources
In a solar panel array, each solar panel in a series-connected string has a current source connected across its output terminals. The current source generates a programmable output current equal to the difference of the load current drawn from the panel and the current corresponding to the maximum power point (MPP) of the panel. As a result, each of the panels in the string is operated at its MPP. When the array contains multiple strings connected in parallel, a voltage source is additionally connected in series with each string. The voltage sources are programmable to generate corresponding output voltages to enable operation of each panel in each of the multiple strings at its MPP. Respective control blocks providing the current sources and voltage sources automatically determine the MPP of the corresponding panels. In an embodiment, the control blocks are implemented as DC-DC converters in conjunction with measurement and communication units. |
| US09285812B2 |
Soft start circuits and techniques
A regulator control circuit includes a switch control signal generator to generate a switch control signal and a soft start circuit to generate a soft start signal for use by the switch control signal generator. The soft start circuit includes a soft start controller and a decreasing circuit to decrease the soft start signal in response to the soft start controller. The soft start controller may comprise a non-regulation detector to detect a non-regulation condition. Embodiments include decreasing the soft start signal in response to a non-regulation condition lasting a predetermined time, detecting the non-regulation condition in response to a maximum duty cycle of the regulator switch, generating a soft start level indicator to control decreasing the soft start signal, and maintaining the soft start signal at a predetermined relationship with respect to a feedback signal. |
| US09285809B2 |
Current source with active common mode rejection
A current source with active common mode rejection uses a principle of having a branch for the generation of the required current, to the output (107) of which one end of the load (3) is connected; and a branch of the active compensation circuit (ACC) (200), to the output (203) of which the other end of the load (3) is connected. By means of at least one input (201) of the ACC (200), at least one signal is sensed on the load, and subsequently it is processed so that the result of processing of at least one signal from at least one input (201) preferentially represents the common mode voltage, which corresponds to the pair of voltages at the voltage terminals (1) and (2) of the load (3), or voltage close to the common mode voltage. This result is subsequently processed by the regulating circuits of the ACC (200), which compare it to the reference potential value (4), and using the negative feedback principle, set such voltage on the output (203), which, within the control accuracy, leads to the equivalence of the reference potential (4) and the potential corresponding to the result of processing of at least one signal from at least one input (201). |
| US09285808B2 |
Adaptive switching voltage regulator
Exemplary embodiments are related to a switching voltage regulator. A device may include a first transistor having a gate configured to receive a first signal and a second transistor having a gate configured to receive a second signal. The device may also include a controller configured to measure at least one of a difference between a rising edge of the first signal and an associated rising edge of the second signal and a difference between a falling edge of the first signal and an associated falling edge of the second signal. The controller may also be configured to delay one of the first signal and the second signal if the rising edge of the first signal occurs before or after the associated rising edge of the second signal or if the falling edge of the first signal occurs before or after the associated falling edge of the second signal. |
| US09285805B1 |
Attributed roadway trajectories for self-driving vehicles
An attributed roadway trajectory comprises at least one ordered series of attributed roadway trajectory points, which are spaced along a curve that is defined in a terrestrial coordinate frame and tracks an along-roadway physical feature of a real-world roadway segment portrayed in a point cloud. Any arbitrary attributed roadway trajectory point on the curve passes a predetermined proximity test for proximity to point cloud points discriminated as representing part of the along-roadway physical feature. Each attributed roadway trajectory point has at least one attribute value representing a characteristic of the real-world roadway segment at a position on the real-world roadway segment spatially associated with the attributed roadway trajectory point. A control system of a self-driving road vehicle can use the attribute value(s) to adjust control of the self-driving road vehicle based on sensor-independent roadway data (e.g. where the position of the attributed roadway trajectory point(s) remains outside of sensor range). |
| US09285799B2 |
Methods and apparatus to dynamically display data associated with a process control system
Example methods and apparatus to dynamically display data associated with a process control system are disclosed. A disclosed example method includes receiving in a graphics engine, process control information selected by a user, identifying process data associated with the selected process control information, retrieving the identified process data from a process controller, determining metadata associated with the retrieved process data, generating in the graphics engine a data representation based on the metadata, and displaying the data representation via a user interface. |
| US09285798B2 |
Production management for manufacturing execution systems
First inter-organizational tracking & tracing systems facilitate timely identification and handling of disruptions along the supply chain. However, these systems typically operate at supply chain management (SCM) and enterprise resource planning system (ERP) level and therefore lack knowledge and control over production processes. The idea is to bridge the gap between logistics and production IT by proposing a novel architecture for coupling the manufacturing operations as defined in IEC 62264 with an EPCIS-compliant real-time tracking & tracing system. The system leverages logic-based complex event processing for detecting critical disruptions in the supply chain and initiates rescheduling of production. It is shown that in the presence of unexpected events the rescheduling algorithm minimizes delays and inventory costs while avoiding < |
| US09285796B2 |
Approximate functional matching in electronic systems
Methods and apparatuses for approximate functional matching are described including identifying functionally similar subsets of an integrated circuit design or software program, distinguishing control inputs of the subsets from data inputs, and assigning combinations of logic values to the input control signals to capture co-factors for functional matching. |
| US09285788B2 |
Smart garment and method for detection of body kinematics and physical state
A body garment including sensors distributed throughout the garment, each sensor senses body state information from a local surface area of a body; and sensor nodes in proximity to the plurality of sensors, each sensor node including a processor to receive sensing body state information from at least one of the plurality of sensors. Each processor is configured to receive body state information locally from sensors, to utilize the information to determine a local surface shape of the surface of a portion of the body part; and to exchange local surface shape information with neighboring sensor nodes. At least one processor of utilizes the local surface shape information received from the sensor nodes to generate one overall model of a surface shape of the entire surface of the body part covered by the garment. |
| US09285787B2 |
Estimating initial states of a system model for controlling an industrial process
A model-based control of an industrial process using a merged MLD system model is provided for the estimation and subsequent control of the process. An optimization of an objective function is performed. The objective function includes a difference between an observed quantity and an output variable of a Mixed Logical Dynamic (MLD) system model of the process. The optimization is performed as a function of state variables of the MLD system model, over a number of time steps in the past, and subject to constraints defined by the MLD system model's dynamics. The optimizing values of the state variables are retained as estimated initial states for subsequent control of the process in a model-based manner including the same MLD system model. The single MLD system model is a combination or merger of individual MLD subsystem models representing the sub-processes of the process, and may be elaborated during a customization step. |
| US09285786B2 |
Method for determining adapted measuring values and/or model parameters for controlling the air flow path of internal combustion engines
In a method for determining adapted measuring values and/or model parameters for controlling the air flow path of internal combustion engines, at least two measuring values and/or model parameters are simultaneously adapted, at least one total error variable which describes an inconsistency of the measuring values and model parameters being divided into individual correction variables for the measuring values and/or model parameters to be adapted, and these correction variables being applied to the measuring values and/or model parameters to be adapted. |
| US09285784B2 |
Energy demand coordination network control node
An apparatus for controlling peak demand of a system of energy consuming devices, including a first control node coupled to a second control node via a demand coordination network. The first control node has a node processor and a global schedule module. The node processor is coupled to a first energy consuming device, and operates the first energy consuming device within an acceptable operating margin to maintain a first local environment by cycling on and off. The global schedule module is coupled to the first node processor, and coordinates run times for the first energy consuming device and a second energy consuming device, where the coordination is based on a replica copy of a global run time schedule disposed within the first and second control nodes, an adjusted first descriptor set characterizing the first local environment, and an adjusted second descriptor set characterizing a second local environment. |
| US09285781B2 |
Timepiece with internal antenna
A timepiece includes a case; a movement that is housed in the case and has multiple motors that drive respective staffs disposed at different locations; a patch antenna that is disposed inside the case and at the back side of the dial; and a battery that supplies power to the motors and is disposed at a position in the case that does not overlap the patch antenna in plan view. The position at which the battery is disposed overlaps at least one of the motors in plan view. |
| US09285779B2 |
Smart alarm clock system device
A smart alarm clock system device includes an imaging device, a memory used to store predetermined values and images, an emitter used activate an alarm signal; and a processor having circuitry used to set an alarm time, cause the emitter to activate the alarm signal when a current time of the clock corresponds to the predetermined value, compare, when the alarm signal is activated and in response to capture an image, the captured image to the predetermined image, and deactivate the alarm signal and reset the alarm time for the pre-determined value, when the captured image corresponds to the predetermined image stored in memory, compare, when the alarm signal is activated and in response to capture of an image, the captured image to the second predetermined image, and deactivate the alarm signal, when the captured image corresponds to the second predetermined image. |
| US09285777B2 |
Method and system for authenticating a timepiece
Embodiments relate to method for authenticating timepiece comprising measuring acoustic vibrations emitted by timepiece to obtain electrical signal, which indicates variation of magnitude of measured acoustic vibrations as function of time. The method includes processing electrical signal to attenuate plurality of acoustic events in said electrical signal, performing transform of processed electrical signal into a frequency domain to obtain frequency-domain power spectrum indicating variation of power of processed electrical signal as a function of frequency, identifying at least one narrow peak in frequency-domain power spectrum corresponding to at least one resonance frequency of a part of timepiece resonating in a quiet zone. The method also includes extracting at least one resonance frequency corresponding to at least one narrow peak, comparing extracted at least one resonance frequency with at least one reference resonance frequency, and deriving information on an authenticity of said timepiece based on the comparing. |
| US09285774B2 |
Universal running equation of time mechanism and method of setting the same
Universal running equation of time mechanism including a differential device outputting a running equation minute which indicates the difference between civil time and solar time, the running equation minute driving a true running equation minute which drives a true running equation hour, a jumper spring cooperating with a star wheel connected to an arbor carrying a true running equation hour hand, a time zone wheel carrying the true running equation hour hand, a train making it possible to apply, to the true running equation hour, the time difference associated with the longitude position of a user, the time zone wheel making it possible to apply, to the arbor carrying the true running equation hour hand the difference between the true running equation hour and the civil hour at the place where the user is located. |
| US09285773B2 |
Timepiece balance
A balance staff including a main shoulder of a balance, a first radial lateral bearing surface for this balance, a roller sleeve shoulder, and a balance spring collet shoulder. The roller shoulder is adjacent to a first radial shoulder, the collet shoulder is adjacent to a second lateral surface, which defines, with the first radial shoulder, a collar including the balance shoulder which is adjacent to a first lateral bearing surface for the bearing of a balance, the first lateral bearing surface facing the same side as the first radial shoulder, the balance shoulder is separated from this collet shoulder by a seat forming the largest diameter of the collar. |
| US09285765B2 |
Developer supply cartridge with shutter portion for opening and closing a supply opening
A developer supply cartridge detachably mountable to a main assembly of an image forming apparatus includes: a developer accommodating portion; a shutter portion movable between a closed position and an open position; and a movable portion for moving the shutter portion. The movable portion is movable between a first position where the shutter portion is positioned in the closed position. The movable portion performs a preventing operation for preventing movement thereof to the first position by engagement thereof with an engaging portion, provided in the main assembly side, when the movable portion is positioned in the second position during movement of the developer supply cartridge to the main assembly. |
| US09285764B2 |
Image forming apparatus that accommodates cartridge with sufficient amount of developer
An image forming apparatus includes a main casing, a supporting frame movable relative to the main casing in a first direction between an internal position and an external position, and a developer container supported in the supporting frame. The main casing includes first and second walls extending in the first direction and opposing each other in a second direction orthogonal to the first direction. The supporting frame includes first and second plates opposing the first and second walls in the second direction respectively. The developer container includes: a first chamber disposed between the first plate and the second plate; a second chamber for storing developer and disposed between the first wall and the first plate; a third chamber for communicating between the first chamber and the second chamber; and a conveying portion for conveying the developer in the second chamber to the first chamber via the third chamber. |
| US09285761B2 |
Cover opening and closing mechanism and image forming apparatus
A cover opening and closing mechanism includes a first cover member having a first sheet placing surface and a second cover member having a second sheet placing surface. The first cover member has a first engagement part at a distal end of the first sheet placing surface, the second cover member has a second engagement part at a distal end of the second sheet placing surface so that the first sheet placing surface is flush with the second sheet placing surface. During a process in which the first cover member swings in a close direction, a first contact part of the first cover member, which is other than the first sheet placing surface, contacts to a second contact part of the second cover member, which is other than the second sheet placing surface, before the first engagement part contacts to the second engagement part. |
| US09285759B2 |
Image forming apparatus having developing device unit withdrawable through opening
An image forming apparatus includes a main casing, an opening-closing member configured to open and close an opening on a side of the main casing and to move between an open position and a closed position, a belt unit configured to move between a first position and a second position, a drum unit configured to move between a third position and a fourth position, a developing device unit configured to move in an arrangement direction of developing rollers, and an interlock mechanism configured such that in response to a movement of the opening-closing member from the closed position to the open position, the belt unit moves from the first position to the second position and the drum unit moves from the third position to the fourth position. |
| US09285758B1 |
Positional control features between replaceable units of an electrophotographic image forming device
A replaceable unit for an image forming device having features for aligning the replaceable unit when installed in the image forming device and to ensure alignment between the replaceable unit and a detachable unit attachable to the replaceable unit. End walls support a photoconductive drum and have a first bullet nose, second bullet nose and stop arm used for alignment of the replaceable unit in a frame of the image forming device. Support members are on a top surface of the bottom plate with a top planar surface of one of the support members forming a rotational stop and a datum surface for the detachable unit when attached. A mounting channel in one end wall provides a second datum surface for the detachable unit and a mounting channel in the other provides a deskewing plug to adjust axial alignment between the photoconductive drum and a roll in the detachable unit. |
| US09285753B2 |
Information processing apparatus and control program
An information processing apparatus includes a maintenance staff information store part that stores maintenance staff identification information, a maintenance staff authentication part that determines an authentication success when identification information, which is input from an operation panel, is identical to the maintenance staff identification information, a maintenance history store part that, when a replacement of a consumable item is performed, stores the maintenance staff identification information as well as information of the consumable item that was used before the replacement, and an output part that outputs the maintenance staff identification information that was authenticated at the time of the replacement of the consumable item as well as the information of the consumable item that is stored in the maintenance history store part, the consumable item being used before the replacement. |
| US09285750B2 |
Image forming apparatus
Disclosed is an image forming apparatus. The image forming apparatus includes a housing having a discharge port, a plurality of photosensitive bodies mounted in the housing, a transfer unit to transfer visible images formed on the plurality of photosensitive bodies onto a printing medium, a fusing unit to fuse transferred visible images to the printing medium, and a reverse unit to reverse a moving direction of the printing medium, after the printing medium has passed through the fusing unit. As the moving direction of the printed printing medium is reversed by the reverse unit, the printing medium may be discharged while a printed surface of the printing medium is directed downward, allowing a user to easily draw out the printing medium. |
| US09285748B2 |
Image forming apparatus
An image forming apparatus includes a toner container; a developing unit; a detection unit detecting toner in the developing unit; a measurement unit measuring as to whether there is a full amount of toner or no toner in the developing unit by using a detection history of the detection unit with regard to the toner; a supplying unit supplying the toner from the toner container to the developing unit; a toner-amount calculation unit calculating, using image data to be printed, an amount of toner consumption needed during printing; an accumulation unit calculating an accumulated amount of toner consumption by accumulating the amount of toner consumption every time printing is conducted; and a fault determination unit determining, using the accumulated amount of toner consumption, whether a measurement result by the measurement unit is normal or not as to whether there is a full amount of toner or no toner. |
| US09285746B2 |
Abnormality monitoring system and image forming apparatus
An abnormality monitoring system includes: an electronic component that outputs a lock signal of “High” when the electronic component stops functioning and outputs a lock signal of “Low” when the electronic component functions; a signal device that supplies power to the electronic component and outputs an ON operation signal instructing the electronic component to function and an OFF operation signal instructing the electronic component to stop functioning; a harness member that connects the electronic component and the signal device and transmits and receives a signal; and a monitor device that determines abnormality of the electronic component when the operation signal is ON and the lock signal is “Low”, and determines abnormality of the harness member when the operation signal is OFF and the lock signal is “Low”. |
| US09285745B2 |
Image forming apparatus for outputting a print job into a plurality of trays
An image forming apparatus arranged to produce groups of printed sheets. Each group includes a plurality of sequential sheets. The image forming apparatus includes a plurality of storage units each configured to store the printed sheets produced by an image forming unit, a sorter unit configured to sort the printed sheets of a group into a plurality of portions, wherein the sheets in each portion are in sequential order, and to output each of the portions to a different storage unit, and a display unit configured to display an indication of the storage unit storing the portion including the first or the last sheet of the group such that a user is directed to collect the portion including the first or the last sheet of the group from the indicated storage unit first. |
| US09285742B2 |
Image forming apparatus to adjust the amount of light exposed by an exposure unit
Included is an image bearing member; an exposure unit configured to form electrostatic latent images by scanning light on the image bearing member and to change the amount of light along the scanning direction of the light; a forming unit configured to form a toner patch on the basis of the electrostatic latent image formed by a plurality of different light amounts, to adjust the light amount of the exposure unit; a detection unit configured to detect the toner patch; and a control unit configured to adjust the light amount of the exposure unit along the scanning direction of the light depending on the detection result by the detection unit. The control unit changes the light amount of the exposure unit along the scanning direction of the light over a portion of regions rather than all regions in the scanning direction when forming the toner patch. |
| US09285738B1 |
Fixing device, image forming apparatus, pressure-applying device, and pressing device
A fixing device includes first and second contact bodies that apply a pressure to a recording medium to fix an unfixed image on the recording medium; a pressing member that is movable between a first position at which the pressing member is in contact with the first contact body and a second position at which the pressing member is separated from the first contact body; a first urging member that urges the pressing member to apply a force to the first contact body; a guide member that controls a direction in which the first contact body moves; a second urging member that is interposed between the pressing member and the guide member and that urges the guide member to apply a force to the first contact body; and a changer that selectively changes a position of the pressing member between the first and second positions. |
| US09285736B1 |
Fixing member, fixing device, and image forming apparatus
Provided is a fixing member including an annular base material, and an innermost layer that is formed on an inner circumferential surface of the annular base material, the innermost layer including heat-resistant fibers. |
| US09285735B2 |
Foamed body molding system, roller produced by foamed body molding system, and image forming apparatus with roller produced by foamed body molding system
A foamed body molding system includes a side mold to constitute a side surface of a cylindrical cavity, a flange unit including an upper connection member to constitute an upper surface of the cylindrical cavity, a first vent hole to connect the cylindrical cavity with an upper space thereof, and a metal shaft having a diameter smaller than an inner diameter of the cylindrical cavity disposed with its lower end entering the cylindrical cavity and its upper end coaxially held with the cylindrical cavity, an upper cap unit to hold the flange unit including a second vent hole to vent air ejected from the first vent hole, and a lower cap unit including a lower connection member to constitute a lower surface of the cylindrical cavity and a raw molding material introduction cylindrical hole formed at a coaxial position with the cylindrical cavity to introduce raw molding material. |
| US09285733B2 |
Fixing device and image forming apparatus
A fixing device may include a first fixing member, and a second fixing member, and may be configured to heat-fix a developer image on a recording sheet at a fixing nip formed between the first fixing member and the second fixing member. The fixing device may further include a charge-removing member arranged upstream of the fixing nip in a conveyance direction of the recording sheet and in a vicinity of a conveyance path of the recording sheet conveyed towards the fixing nip, and including a main body part and an end edge positioned at an edge of the main body part, and an insulating member arranged between the conveyance path and at least the entire end edge of the charge-removing member. |
| US09285731B1 |
Fixing device that fixes images of decolorable and non-decolorable materials
A fixing device includes a roller, a pressing member pressed against the roller, such that when a sheet having an unfixed image is passed thorough a nip formed between the roller and the pressing member, the unfixed image is fixed on the sheet, a first heater configured to heat the roller, a second heater configured to heat the pressing member, and a controller configured to control the second heater, such that a time-averaged heat generation by the second heater when an image of a decolorable material is fixed is greater than a time-averaged heat generation by the second heater when an image of a non-decolorable material is fixed. |
| US09285728B2 |
Image forming apparatus including a heat shield interposed between a heater and a fixing rotary body and image forming method
An image forming apparatus includes a fixing device including a fixing rotary body and a heater for heating the fixing rotary body. An opposed body contacts the fixing rotary body with releasable pressure therebetween to form a fixing nip therebetween through which a recording medium is conveyed. A heat shield is interposed between the heater and the fixing rotary body and movable in a circumferential direction of the fixing rotary body to shield the fixing rotary body from the heater in a variable circumferential direct heating span of the fixing rotary body where the heater is disposed opposite the fixing rotary body directly. A controller halts the heat shield instantly when a fault occurs during a print job. |
| US09285727B2 |
Sheet conveying apparatus and image forming apparatus
A sheet conveying apparatus includes a first pair of rotating members; a second pair of rotating members which is provided in a downstream side of the first pair of rotating members in a conveying direction of a sheet; and a load portion which applies a load on a rotation of the first pair of rotating members to generate a tensile stress in the sheet; wherein the load portion includes, a slidably moving member arranged on both sides in an axial direction of a rotary member, a fixing member arranged to nip the slidably moving member on both sides in the axial direction of the rotary member from both outer sides in the axial direction, the fixing member being arranged to be movable in the axial direction and being rotation regulated, and a force applying portion which applies force on the fixing member in the axial direction of the rotary member. |
| US09285724B2 |
Fixing device and image forming apparatus
A fixing device includes a rotary endless fixing belt; a nip forming member disposed in an interior of the fixing belt; a rotary opposed member to contact the nip forming member via the fixing belt to form a nip together with the fixing belt; a heat source to directly heat the fixing belt at a portion other than the nip, including at lease one heat-generation part disposed outside lateral ends of a maximum area of the fixing belt where a recording medium passes through, wherein a recording medium carrying an unfixed image is conveyed to the nip and the fixing device fixes the unfixed image onto the recording medium; and a shielding member disposed between the fixing belt and the heat generation part of the heat source and configured to shield heat from the heat source at least at an area outside the maximum passing area of the recording medium. |
| US09285723B2 |
Image forming apparatus and image forming method
An image forming apparatus includes an image carrier to carry a toner image, a transfer member to form a transfer nip by contacting the image carrier surface, and a power supply to output a voltage to the recording material captured in the transfer nip so as to transfer the toner image formed on the image carrier surface. The voltage is switching alternately between a voltage in the transfer direction and a voltage opposite to the voltage in the transfer direction, and a time average value (Vave) of the voltage is set to have a polarity of the transfer direction, and is set to a value in the transfer voltage side, and a change mode to change a cycle of the voltage output from the power supply can be changed based on the toner deterioration information which determines the deterioration status of the toner. |
| US09285720B2 |
Image forming apparatus including moisture removal mechansism for removing mositure on surface of photosensitive drum
An image forming apparatus has an image carrying body, a first electrically conductive member, a bias application device, and a controller. The first electrically conductive member makes contact with the photosensitive layer of the image carrying body The bias application device applies a bias containing an AC bias to the first electrically conductive member. The controller controls the bias application device. The image forming apparatus can execute, while no image formation is being performed, a temperature raising mode in which, with the first electrically conductive member in contact with the image carrying body outside the image formation region, an AC bias having a peak-to-peak value twice as high as the discharge start voltage between the first electrically conductive member and the image carrying body is applied to the first electrically conductive member to raise the temperature of the surface of the image carrying body. |
| US09285718B2 |
Image forming apparatus including a first transfer section using toner containing flat metallic pigment particles and second transfer section using toner not containing flat metallic pigment particles
An image forming apparatus includes an endless transfer member, a first transfer section, a second transfer section, and a medium transfer section. An image is transferred to the transfer member during circulation of the transfer member. The first transfer section forms an image using a toner containing flat metallic pigment particles, and transfers the formed image to the transfer member through a transfer current. The second transfer section forms an image using a toner not containing flat metallic pigment particles, and transfers the formed image to the transfer member through a transfer current. The second transfer section is disposed upstream of the first transfer section in a circulation direction of the transfer member. The medium transfer section transfers the image transferred to the transfer member to a recording medium through a transfer current. The transfer current for the first transfer section is smaller than that for the second transfer section. |
| US09285715B2 |
Method and system for reduction of caking
A method for the reduction of caking of excess liquid developer dispersion that remains present on the surface of a member after transfer of liquid developer dispersion from one member to another member in a digital printing apparatus, comprising the step of adding a dispersing composition to the excess liquid developer dispersion, wherein the dispersing composition comprises a dispersing agent. |
| US09285713B2 |
Developing device, and image forming apparatus provided with the same
A developing device supplies a developer to a photosensitive drum, which has a cylindrical shape, and is rotatable around an axis thereof for forming an electrostatic latent image on the circumferential surface thereof. The developing device is provided with a developing roller. The developing roller is disposed to face the photosensitive drum, and has a cylindrical shape. The developing roller is rotatable around an axis thereof for carrying a developer on the circumferential surface thereof. The developing roller is provided with a small diameter portion. The small diameter portion is a part of the circumferential surface of the developing roller. The small diameter portion extends from an axial end of the developing roller axially inward by a predetermined length, and has an outer diameter smaller than an axially middle portion of the developing roller. |
| US09285712B2 |
Developing device and process cartridge for suppressing toner leakage
A developing device configured to prevent a leakage of developer through a gap between a frame and a longitudinal end of a developer supply roller, includes an elastic bush member, a groove to which the bush member is attached and including an opening to allow an end of the developer supply roller to pass through a seating surface when the developer supply roller is mounted on the groove in a direction intersecting the longitudinal direction, an abutment portion for regulating movement of the bush member in the longitudinal direction, and a bearing member configured to rotatably support an end of the developer supply roller and compress, in the longitudinal direction, the bush member sandwiched between the abutment portion and the bearing member and bias the bush member against an inner wall of the groove. |
| US09285711B2 |
Developing device and image forming apparatus
A developing device includes a developer container including a first chamber and a second chamber arranged along a lateral direction, which crosses a gravitational direction, developer circulating through the first chamber and the second chamber; a transporting member rotatably disposed in the first chamber; and a supply member rotatably disposed in the second chamber. A lower end position of the supply member and a lower end position of the transporting member in the gravitational direction are at the same level. While the supply member and the transporting member are rotating, an upper surface of developer contained in the first chamber and an upper surface of developer contained in the second chamber are at levels not higher than an upper end position of the transporting member but not lower than an upper end position of the supply member in the gravitational direction. |
| US09285708B2 |
Image forming apparatus
An image forming apparatus includes a toner case, an opening/closing member, a lever member, a drive transmission mechanism, and a biasing member. The toner case is attached to an apparatus main body. The opening/closing member opens and closes a toner discharge outlet formed in the toner case. The lever member is operated between a first operation position and a second operation position for the opening/closing member to be moved to a closing position corresponding to the first operation position or to an opening position corresponding to the second operation position. The drive transmission mechanism transmits, to the opening/closing member, a driving force input by operation of the lever member. The biasing member biases the opening/closing member toward the closing position when the lever member is at the first operation position, and biases the opening/closing member toward the opening position when the lever member is at the second operation position. |
| US09285706B2 |
Toner cartridge with memory for image forming apparatus
An image forming apparatus mounted with a toner cartridge having a memory unit includes a toner cartridge which stores a plurality of control data depending on toner in the memory unit, an acquisition unit which selects one of the plurality of control data in the memory unit and acquires image formation-related information and a setting unit which sets image formation parameters on the basis of the image formation-related information. |
| US09285705B2 |
Electrophotographic image forming apparatus, toner cartridge for the same, imaging cartridge for the same, and method of controlling toner level in developing chamber of the same
An electrophotographic image forming apparatus includes an imaging cartridge and a toner cartridge that are detachably attached to a main body, a first optical sensor that is mounted in the imaging cartridge and detects a toner level in a development chamber, and a second optical sensor that is mounted in the toner cartridge and detects a toner level in the development chamber. |
| US09285697B2 |
Toner
Provided is a toner has toner particle containing a crystalline polyester resin A, an amorphous resin B and a colorant, wherein (1) the crystalline polyester resin A is a resin that has a crystal nucleating agent segment (D) on the end of a polyester molecular chain (C), (2) the amorphous resin (B) is a hybrid resin in which a polyester unit (E) and a vinyl polymer unit (F) are chemically bonded, and (3) the SP value of the polyester molecular chain (C) (Sc), the SP value of the crystal nucleating agent segment (D) (Sd), the SP value of the polyester unit (E) (Se) and the SP value of the vinyl polymer unit (F) (Sf) satisfy specific relationships. |
| US09285696B2 |
Electrostatic charge image developing toner, electrostatic charge image developer, and toner container
An electrostatic charge image developing toner includes an unsaturated polyester resin that contains a structural unit derived from a dicarboxylic acid component having an ethylenically unsaturated bond and a structural unit derived from a dialcohol component having a rosin ester group, wherein a surface layer portion of the toner contains a crosslinked material of the unsaturated polyester resin. |
| US09285693B2 |
Tuning toner gloss with bio-based stabilizers
The disclosure describes a process to produce toner with tunable gloss levels comprising a stabilizer to freeze particle growth following aggregation, where the stabilizer does not chelate metal ions. |
| US09285692B2 |
Positively-charged single-layer electrophotographic photoreceptor and image forming apparatus
Disclosed is a positively-charged single-layer electrophotographic photoreceptor in which a photosensitive layer containing at least a binding resin and a charge transporting material is provided on a photosensitive layer support base with a wall thickness of 0.7 mm or less, wherein when the charge transporting material is solely constituted by a hole transporting material, a content of the hole transporting material is 110 parts by mass or less with respect to 100 parts by mass of the binding resin, and when the charge transporting material is constituted by a hole transporting material and an electron transporting material, a content of the hole transporting material is 130 parts by mass or less and a content of the electron transporting material is 5 parts by mass or more with respect to 100 parts by mass of the binding resin. |
| US09285691B2 |
Exposure apparatus and method for manufacturing article
An exposure apparatus comprises a first detector detecting substrate-side marks via an original-side mark and a projection optical system; second detectors arranged in a larger number than the first detector and detecting the substrate-side marks not via the projection optical system; a reference plate having reference marks; and a control unit configured to obtain a first detection result of the plurality of reference marks by the second detectors, obtain first information relating to a first distance between the plurality of second detectors based on the first detection result, obtain a second detection result of the identical substrate-side mark by the first detector and the second detectors, obtain second information relating to a second distance between the first detector and the second detectors based on the second detection result, and control the alignment of the original and the substrate based on the first information and the second information. |
| US09285689B2 |
Lithographic apparatus and device manufacturing method
A lithographic apparatus includes an illumination system to provide a beam of radiation, a support to support a patterning devices, the patterning devices configured to impart the beam with a pattern in its cross-section, a substrate table to hold a substrate, a projection system to project the patterned beam onto a target portion of the substrate, and a conditioning system to condition the substrate. The conditioning system conditions a non-target portion of the substrate with a conditioning fluid. A method of manufacturing a device includes conditioning a non-target portion of a substrate. |
| US09285684B2 |
Exposure method, exposure apparatus, and method for producing device
A liquid immersion exposure apparatus in which a substrate is exposed with an exposure beam, includes a projection optical system by which the substrate is exposed to the exposure beam, a first inlet disposed at a first position, which is capable of supplying a first liquid to a space adjacent to a bottom surface of the projection optical system, and a second inlet disposed at a second position which is different from the first position, the second inlet being capable of supplying a second liquid that is different from the first liquid to the space. |
| US09285679B2 |
Actinic ray-sensitive or radiation-sensitive composition, and resist film, resist-coated mask blanks, resist pattern forming method and photomask each using the composition
There is provided an actinic ray-sensitive or radiation-sensitive composition containing (α) a compound represented by the formula (αI) capable of generating an acid having a size of 200 Å3 or more in volume and (β) a compound capable of generating an acid upon irradiation with an actinic ray or radiation, and the formula (αI) is defined as herein, and a resist film formed using the actinic ray-sensitive or radiation-sensitive composition, a resist-coated mask blanks coated with the resist film, a resist pattern forming method comprising exposing the resist film and developing the exposed film, a photomask obtained by exposing and developing the resist-coated mask blanks, a method for manufacturing an electronic device, comprising the resist pattern forming method and an electronic device manufactured by the manufacturing method of an electronic device. |
| US09285676B2 |
Self-assemblable polymer and method for use in lithography
A BCP having first block of first monomer and second block of second monomer, adapted to undergo a transition from disordered state to ordered state at a temperature less than TOD, further including a bridging moiety having a functional group to provide hydrogen bonding between bridging moieties of adjacent first and second BCP molecules when in the ordered state and at a temperature in excess of a glass transition temperature Tg for the BCP. Composition including BCP comprising first block of first monomer and second block of second monomer, and a crosslinking compound having first and second terminal groups joined by a central moiety and arranged to crosslink second blocks of adjacent first and second BCP molecules by providing non-covalent bonding between the terminal groups and a functional group of the second monomer of the second blocks when the BCP is in the ordered state. |
| US09285674B2 |
Apparatus and method for indirect surface cleaning
A photomask includes at least one feature disposed thereon. The at least one feature has an associated design location, where a distance between a location of the at least one feature and the associated design location defines a positional error of the at least one feature. A method for improving a performance characteristic of the photomask includes directing electromagnetic radiation toward the photomask, the electromagnetic radiation having a wavelength that substantially coincides with a high absorption coefficient of the photomask; generating a thermal energy increase in the photomask through incidence of the electromagnetic radiation thereon; and decreasing the positional error as a result of the generating the thermal energy increase in the photomask. |
| US09285669B2 |
Reflection screen and image display system
A reflection screen includes: a reflection layer provided on the back side and adapted to reflect light; and a surface shape layer provided on the reflection layer, at the image source side relative to the reflection screen, the surface shape layer having a plurality of unit optical shapes arrayed and deflecting image light toward the reflection layer side. The unit optical shape satisfies, in a section along the array direction of the unit optical shapes and orthogonal to a screen plane, the relationship of α+2φ−θ>90°, where θ is an angle that a total reflection surface makes with a plane parallel to the screen plane, φ is an angle that an incidence surface makes with a normal direction to the screen plane, and α is an angle that light incident on the incidence surface makes with the normal direction to the screen plane. |
| US09285663B2 |
Projection display device having light source with plurality of port groups each having opening and closing plate
A light source device includes a holder for holding a lamp unit, a duct member placed over the holder, a flow path formed between the holder and the duct member, a plurality of port groups disposed in the holder, each port group including ports for connecting the inside of a reflector of the lamp unit to the flow path, and a plate member disposed in each port group and configured to selectively open/close ports included in each port group. The plurality of port groups is located around the center axis of a light-emitting tube of the lamp unit, and the plate member rotates under its own weight to open some of the ports included in the port group while closing the other ports. |
| US09285662B2 |
Projector and method for controlling projector
In at least one embodiment, a projector includes an operation reception unit, and selection unit, and a correction unit. The operation reception unit receives an input operation. The selection unit allows selection of one of a plurality of controlled objects located in correspondence with vertices of a contour of an image based on image information and sides of the contour. The correction unit allows movement of the controlled object selected by using the selection unit within the image based on the input operation and corrects the contour of the image based on the moved controlled object. |
| US09285657B2 |
Articulating arm camera mount
Disclosed is an articulating arm camera mount for mounting an imaging device. The disclosed camera mount comprises a base, one or more arms, and a head that are movably secured to one another and are generally interchangeable with different components and pieces. The disclosed camera mount allows for greater flexibility and creativity in the placement and positioning of an imaging device. |
| US09285656B2 |
System for determining a lens position
A system for determining lens position including a first capacitor plate disposed on a stationary housing of a camera. A second capacitor plate is disposed on a rotating lens component of the camera. A processor is operatively connected to the first and second capacitor plates to identify the position of the lens of the camera based on capacitance between the first and second capacitor plates. |
| US09285654B2 |
Miniature camera module with MEMS-actuated autofocus
A miniature MEMS autofocus camera module includes a MEMS actuated movable lens group and at least one fixed lens group defining an optical axis within a camera module housing. Objects disposed an arbitrary distance from the camera module are automatically focused at a determined zoom to an image sensor. MEMS actuation of the movable lens group is performed to accomplish autofocus functionality. |
| US09285641B2 |
Liquid crystal display device and method of fabricating the same
In a liquid crystal display device and a method of fabricating the same in accordance with the present invention, there is provided a liquid crystal display device with a color filter on TFT (COT) structure for a high-image quality and high-performance display, in which a light blocking pattern is formed with a double layer structure of an upper layer having a low-reflectance characteristic and a lower layer having a low-transmittance and high-conductance characteristic to replace a black matrix, thereby solving the image quality and luminance issues. |
| US09285637B2 |
Liquid-crystal display
An embodiment of a liquid-crystal display is provided, including: a display area; and a shielding area surrounding the display area, wherein the shielding area includes: a light-shielding layer adjacent to a side of the display area; and a sealant dispensing area adjacent to a side of the light-shielding layer opposite to the display area, wherein the shielding area has a total light transmittance of less than or substantially equal to that of the shielding layer. |
| US09285636B2 |
Liquid crystal display device
An image retention phenomenon and black unevenness generated after long-time operation in the liquid crystal device are prevented. By using a material having a polyamide acid ester as a precursor less likely to adsorb impurities on a boundary for an alignment film and a material having a dielectric constant anisotropy Δ∈ of 5 or less for liquid crystals, adsorption of an antioxidant dispersed in the liquid crystals is suppressed to prevent oxidation of the liquid crystals. The extent that impurities are intruded into the liquid crystals is reduced by restricting the dielectric constant anisotropy Δ∈ of the liquid crystals to 5 or less, thereby capable of preventing the image retention phenomenon and the black unevenness. |
| US09285633B2 |
Liquid crystal display
A liquid crystal display includes: a liquid crystal panel, a backlight assembly disposed at one side surface of the liquid crystal panel, a side frame including a first surface surrounding an edge of the liquid crystal panel and a second surface surrounding a side surface of the backlight assembly and an external panel attached to another side surface of the liquid crystal panel and on the side frame, in which a height of the first surface of the side frame is substantially equal to a height of a surface of the liquid crystal panel, and a width of the first surface of the side frame is larger than a width of the second surface of the side frame. |
| US09285629B2 |
Color-converting substrate and liquid crystal display device
A color conversion substrate and liquid crystal display device of the present invention simplify the manufacturing process thereof and reduce deviations in intensity distribution of emitted light. The color conversion substrate includes a transparent substrate having a first main surface, a phosphor layer having a plurality of phosphors arranged along the first main surface and a plurality of transparent first boundary parts formed so as to surround the respective phosphors, and a plurality of first reflective parts formed on the outer peripheral surface of the respective plurality of first boundary parts. The portions of the first boundary parts where the respective first reflective parts are formed are curved, and the curvature thereof is 0.50/d1 to 0.83/d1, where d1 is the thickness of the respective first boundary parts. |
| US09285627B2 |
Display module having a light source
A display module having a light source includes a display unit. The display unit includes a first substrate, a second substrate opposite to the first substrate, a display medium and a green filter layer. The display medium is disposed between the first substrate and the second substrate. The green filter layer is disposed on the first substrate or the second substrate. When the wavelength of the light is between 380 nm and 780 nm, the spectrum of the light source passing through the green filter layer corresponds to a first energy. When the wavelength of the light is between interval of 660 and 780 nm, the spectrum of the light source passing through the green filter layer corresponds to a second energy. The ratio of the second energy to the first energy is less than 2%. |
| US09285622B2 |
Touch panel and manufacturing method
A touch panel includes a liquid crystal unit, a lower polarizer, an upper polarizer and a touch sensing structure. The lower polarizer is installed under the liquid crystal unit, the upper polarizer is installed above the liquid crystal unit, and the touch sensing structure is installed under the upper polarizer. |
| US09285621B2 |
Liquid crystal display and manufacturing method thereof
A method to manufacture a display device, includes: forming, on a substrate of the display device, a sacrificial layer including a material, the material including at least one of amorphous carbon, a metal, and an inorganic material; forming a layer covering the sacrificial layer; forming an injection hole exposing the sacrificial layer; removing, via the injection hole, the sacrificial layer to form a microcavity; and disposing liquid crystal in the microcavity. |
| US09285618B2 |
Liquid crystal display device comprising two overlapping conductive lines under a sealant
A height difference under a sealant is reduced in a case where lines are present under the sealant. There is provided a substrate having an active matrix display circuit and peripheral driving circuits, a counter substrate having a counter electrode provided on the substrate in a face-to-face relationship therewith, a sealant provided between the substrate and the counter substrate such that it surrounds the active matrix display circuit and peripheral driving circuits, a liquid crystal material provided inside the sealant, a plurality of external connection lines provided on the substrate under the sealant with a resin inter-layer film interposed therebetween for electrically connecting the active matrix display circuit and peripheral driving circuits to circuits present outside the sealant and an adjustment layer provided in the same layer as the plurality of external connection lines. |
| US09285616B2 |
Backlight module and liquid crystal display device using same
The present invention provides a backlight module and a liquid crystal display device using the backlight module. The backlight module includes: a backplane (2), a backlight source (4) arranged in the backplane (2), a light guide plate (6) arranged in the backplane (2), and a reflector plate (8) arranged between the backplane (2) and the light guide plate (6). The backplane (2) includes a bottom plate (22) and a plurality of side plates (24) perpendicularly connected to the bottom plate (22). The bottom plate (22) has a surface that faces the light guide plate (6) and is an arc curved surface (222). The reflector plate (8) is positioned on the arc curved surface (222) and shows an arc curved configuration. The light guide plate (6) is supported on opposite ends of the reflector plate (8) to effectively reduce the thickness of the backlight module and not to be in complete contact with the reflector plate to thereby effectively prevent the occurrence of abrasion and wear of the light guide plate resulting from insufficient smoothness of the bottom plate of the backplane and effectively extend the lifespan of the backlight module. |
| US09285610B2 |
Nanostructure having metal nanoparticles and a method of assembly thereof
A nanostructure and method for assembly thereof are disclosed. The nanostructure includes a gain medium nanoparticle; an output coupler nanoparticle being discrete from and linked to the gain medium nanoparticle; and a plurality of metal nanoparticles being linked about the gain medium nanoparticle, wherein the gain medium nanoparticle and the output coupler nanoparticle are included in the nanostructure in a one to one ratio. |
| US09285609B1 |
Ergonomic power switch for a wearable electronic device
Disclosed are ergonomic power switches for wearable electronic devices. A wearable electronic device may include a circuit including a power supply, and an ergonomic power switch to selectively close the circuit. The ergonomic power switch may comprise multiple elements that are configured to cause closure of the circuit in response to a connection event. The connection event may occur in response to a portion of a user's body being positioned between the multiple elements. |
| US09285607B2 |
Eyewear retainer
A retainer for eyewear is provided, comprising a rear portion, a front portion, and means for securing the front portion to the rear portion. The rear portion comprises a backing plate having a front surface. The front portion comprises a front piece having a front and back surface, a back piece having a front and back surface, and a bridging piece connecting the front and back pieces at their bottom edges. The bridging piece is biased to force the front surface of the back piece against the back surface of the front piece in a closed position. When the nose bridge of a pair of glasses is inserted between the front and back pieces of the front portion, the front and back pieces temporarily separate and close onto the nose bridge to hold the glasses within the retainer. |
| US09285606B1 |
Device for positioning eyeglass frames
A head-mounted ergonomic device for users of multifocal lens eyeglasses that supports the multifocal lens eyeglass frames and allows the user to achieve optimal lens power by manually adjusting the device to alter the level and/or angle of the multifocal lens eyeglass frames. |
| US09285605B2 |
Eyeglass retention device
A retention device for two pairs of eyeglasses. A pair of retaining bands connect the opposite temples of each of the eyeglasses, so that when a user dons one of the pairs of eyeglasses, the other hangs against their person, thereby being protected, secured and readily available. In an alternate embodiment, a neckband is used from which retaining bands extend to secure two eyeglasses. |
| US09285604B2 |
Blur correction apparatus
A blur correction apparatus includes a first fixing member, a moveable member and a second fixing member. A coil for generating a magnetic flux is arranged on the first fixing member. The movable member includes (1) a first magnet facing the coil, (2) a second magnet arranged adjacent to the first magnet, such that the first magnet is arranged between the second magnet and the coil arranged in the first fixing member, and (3) an optical element. The movable member can move in a direction perpendicular to an optical axis of the optical element relative to the first fixing member. The second fixing member includes a hall element that is arranged adjacent to the second magnet in the movable member. |
| US09285590B2 |
Optical guidance device and method of manufacturing such a device
An optical guidance device for optical guidance of a light beam has a first part, in a transparent material, adapted for propagating the light beam by successive reflections. This first part comprises an extraction section comprising at least one microstructure comprising a plane surface adapted to enable the rays of the light beam striking the plane surface to emerge from the guidance device. The device also comprises a second part, in a material substantially identical to that of the first part, comprising a section comprising at least one microstructure with a shape complementary to that or those of the extraction section. The device also has a layer of adhesive assembling the first and second parts in such a way that any microstructure of the extraction section is separated from its complementary microstructure by a transparent medium of substantially constant thickness. |
| US09285589B2 |
AR glasses with event and sensor triggered control of AR eyepiece applications
This disclosure concerns an interactive head-mounted eyepiece with an integrated processor for handling content for display and an integrated image source for introducing the content to an optical assembly through which the user views a surrounding environment and the displayed content, wherein the eyepiece includes an event and sensor triggered control of eyepiece applications. |
| US09285588B2 |
See-through display device and vehicle having see-through display device mounted thereon
The present application discloses a see-through display device a light source configured to emit light, a projection optical system configured to project image light generated from the light; a transmissive hologram including a first surface which the image light enters from the projection optical system; and an interface configured to cause Fresnel reflection of the image light deflected by the hologram. The hologram includes a first interference fringe recorded by object light and reference light which are incident on the first surface by means of two-light flux interference. The image light incident on the first surface is deflected by the first interference fringe toward the interface. The interface reflects the image light toward the first surface. |
| US09285585B2 |
Antifouling coating for eyeglass lenses with a higher coefficient of friction than uncoated lenses
The optical article includes an optical substrate comprising a concave surface with a radius of curvature of equal to or greater than 350 mm on one side and a convex surface with a radius of curvature of equal to or greater than 120 mm on the other side, a first antifouling layer directly or through at least one additional layer on the concave surface, and a second antifouling layer directly or through at least one additional layer on the convex surface, and satisfies the conditions below: 0.01≦μL1≦0.12 0.1≦μL2 μL1<μL2 wherein μL1 denotes a coefficient of static friction of a surface of the first antifouling layer, and μL2 denotes a coefficient of static friction of a surface of the second antifouling layer. |
| US09285584B2 |
Anti-reflective articles with nanosilica-based coatings and barrier layer
An article including a transparent substrate having an anti-reflective, structured surface and a sintered coating including a porous network of silica nanoparticles thereon, wherein the silica nanoparticles are bonded to adjacent silica nanoparticles, wherein the structured substrate further includes a backing face, and a moisture barrier layer bonded to the backing face of the structured substrate. |
| US09285580B2 |
Projection device and light valve module thereof
A light valve module including a first shell, a second shell, a light valve, an elastic pad and a sealant is provided. The first shell has an opening. The second shell is assembled to the first shell. The first shell and the second shell form a containing space therebetween. The light valve is disposed in the containing space and is exposed by the opening. The elastic pad is disposed between the first shell and the second shell for sealing the containing space. The sealant is adhered at a periphery of the opening and the light valve for sealing the containing space. In addition, a projection device having the light valve module is also provided. |
| US09285579B2 |
Light modulating device and laser processing device
A light modulating device (101A) comprises a reflective SLM (107) for modulating a laser beam (Lr) entering along a first optical path extending in a first direction; a dielectric multilayer film mirror (106), formed on a light transmitting member (105) transparent to illumination light (Li), for reflecting the laser beam (Lr) incident on a front face thereof from the reflective SLM (107) onto a second optical path extending in a second direction intersecting the first direction, and transmitting the illumination light (Li) incident on a rear face thereof onto the second optical path; and a light collecting lens (109) for receiving the illumination light (Li) and laser beam (Lr) from the dielectric multilayer film mirror (106) and converging the illumination light (Li) and laser beam (Lr). |
| US09285578B2 |
Method for imaging high density biochemical arrays with sub-pixel alignment
A method and associated system for imaging high density biochemical arrays comprises one or more imaging channels that share a common objective lens and a corresponding one or more time delay integration-type imaging cameras with optical alignment mechanisms that permit independent inter-channel and intra-channel adjustment of each of four degrees: X, Y, rotation and scale. The imaging channels are configured to independently examine different spectra of the image of the biochemical arrays. |
| US09285573B2 |
Zoom lens system, imaging device and camera
A zoom lens system comprising: a positive first lens unit; a negative second lens unit; a positive third lens unit; and a subsequent lens unit, wherein the first to third lens units move along an optical axis in zooming, a part of the third lens unit is a third-b lens unit moving in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis, and the conditions: 1.5<(D2+D3b+DB)/Ir<2.4, BF/Ir<1.45 and Z=fT/fW>9.0 (D2, D3b: optical axial thicknesses of the second and third-b lens units, DB: an optical axial total thickness of the subsequent lens units, BF: a shortest optical axial distance between an apex of a most image side lens surface and an image surface, Ir=fT×tan(ωT), fT, fW: focal lengths of the entire system at a telephoto limit and a wide-angle limit, ωT: a half view angle at a telephoto limit) are satisfied. |
| US09285568B2 |
Image pickup lens and image pickup unit
An image pickup lens includes: in recited order from object plane toward image plane, a first lens having positive refractive power; a second lens having positive or negative refractive power; a third lens having negative refractive power; a fourth lens having negative refractive power; a fifth lens having positive refractive power; and a sixth lens having negative refractive power and having optical surfaces, an image-sided surface of the optical surfaces having an aspherical shape with one or more inflection points other than an intersection point of the image-sided surface and an optical axis. |
| US09285563B2 |
Imaging lens
The present invention relates to an imaging lens, the imaging lens including , in an ordered way from an object side, a first lens having positive (+) refractive power, a second lens having negative (−) refractive power, a third lens having positive (+) refractive power, a fourth lens having positive (+) refractive power, and a fifth lens having negative (−) refractive power, wherein an aperture is interposed between the first and second lenses, and the imaging lens meets a conditional expression of 20 |
| US09285561B2 |
Optical fiber unit for optical fiber sensor
Disclosed is an optical fiber unit that improves the degree of freedom in setting a jig. The unit includes an optical fiber cable, a shaft, and a head. The shaft includes a peripheral surface having a male thread, and a through-hole in which the optical fiber cable is inserted. The head is shaped as a polygonal prism including a plurality of sides and a bottom. The plurality of sides includes a first side and a second side adjacent to each other. The head includes a space that communicates with the through-hole. The space is exposed at an opening formed in at least the first side and the second side among the plurality of sides. The opening includes a first opening portion formed in the first side, and a second opening portion formed in the second side. The first opening portion and the second opening portion communicate with each other. |
| US09285548B2 |
Rattle free metal clip for optical fiber adapter
A clip for an optical fiber adapter according to the present disclosure includes a horizontal portion, two vertical portions, two elastic stopping portions and an elastic sheet. The vertical portions extend downward from the horizontal portion. The elastic stopping portions extend from the vertical portions, respectively. The elastic sheet extends upward from the horizontal portion. |
| US09285545B2 |
Compressive sensing imaging system
The present disclosure relates to a compressive sensing imaging system which may include a compressive sensing optic (CSO) that includes a plurality of compressive sensing elements (CSEs), a fiber optic bundle (FOB) that includes a plurality of fiber optic elements (FOEs) and a sensor that includes a plurality of optical sensing elements (OSEs). Each CSE is configured to capture a respective random CSE optical sample related to a respective portion of a scene and to provide the respective CSE optical sample to the FOB. Each FOE is configured to integrate one or more accepted scene optical samples to produce an associated compressed optical sample and each scene optical sample corresponds to at least a portion of a respective CSE optical sample. Each FOE is further configured to provide the associated compressed optical sample to the sensor. Each OSE is configured to integrate one or more received sensor optical samples. |
| US09285538B2 |
Reducing temperature drift of an arrayed waveguide grating
A wavelength selective device including an arrayed waveguide grating is disclosed. The wavelength selective device includes a MEMS mirror, which couples light from an input port to an elongate aperture of an input star coupler or slab of the arrayed waveguide grating. A controller tilts the MEMS mirror in response to a sensed temperature change of the arrayed waveguide grating, thereby lessening a sensitivity of the arrayed waveguide grating to the temperature change. The MEMS mirror can also be tilted to shift wavelengths of the wavelength channels of the arrayed waveguide grating by pre-defined amounts upon receiving a corresponding remote command. |
| US09285537B2 |
Optical wiring substrate, manufacturing method of optical wiring substrate and optical module
An optical wiring substrate includes an insulation layer including a resin, an conductor layer formed on the insulation layer and including a metal, and an optical fiber accommodating part configured to accommodate an end part of an optical fiber. The conductor layer further includes a reflecting surface configured to be inclined relative to the insulation layer so as to reflect a light that propagates through the optical fiber. The optical fiber accommodating part includes at one end part thereof an abutting surface configured such that a tip of optical fiber inserted is abutted thereon. |
| US09285535B2 |
High-Q optical resonators and method of making the same
An optical resonator made from an elongated fiber having a proximal and distal end. A sphere is created on the distal end by locating the distal end in cylindrically symmetrical heating zone along a centerline. For some embodiments, the distal end is rapidly cooled by allowing it to retract away from the heating zone along the centerline during the formation and solidification of the molten microsphere. The resulting optical resonator has an intrinsic quality factor greater than 106 over the 2.0 to 3.2 μm MIR wavelength range. |
| US09285533B2 |
Display apparatus
A display apparatus capable of reliably supporting a display panel and making a juncture between displays inconspicuous is provided. A display includes a liquid crystal panel having a front surface and a back surface, a module containing a backlight unit for driving the liquid crystal panel, a rear surface side housing for protecting and holding the backlight unit, and a convex lens arranged to cover a frame region of the liquid crystal panel, for guiding light from the front surface of the liquid crystal panel to a front surface side of the frame region and supporting the liquid crystal panel from the front surface. |
| US09285532B2 |
Backlight module having a prisim reflector
A backlight module for illuminating a display is described. The backlight module may be provided in an electronic device along with a light source for illuminating an LCD display. The backlight module includes a diffuser, a light guide having a top surface and a bottom surface, a reflector, and a prism structure positioned between the light guide bottom surface and the reflector. The prism structure has a plurality of prisms extending towards the light guide. The prism structure may include a film or a top portion of the reflector having a plurality of prisms extending towards the light guide. |
| US09285531B2 |
Lightguide having a viscoelastic layer for managing light
Disclosed herein is an optical device including a light source and an optical article. The optical article includes a lightguide and a viscoelastic layer disposed on the lightguide. Light emitted by the light source enters the lightguide and is transported within the lightguide by total internal reflection. The viscoelastic layer manages light, for example, at least about 50%, or less than about 10%, of light that enters the lightguide may be extracted. The optical device can be used in a variety of constructions for signs, markings, display devices, keypad assemblies, tail light assemblies and illumination devices. |
| US09285528B2 |
Lighting device
Disclosed herein is an edge-type lighting device which is configured such that when a light guide plate thermally expands, a light source is prevented from being pressed. In the lighting device according to the present invention, a light guide plate (2) is slidably supported so that the light guide plate (2) can expand in the planar direction, and a light source (3) disposed on an edge of the light guide plate (2) is movably supported in the same direction. A light-guide-plate stopper (4b) is disposed at a position facing an edge (2A) of the light guide plate (2) to prevent the light guide plate (2) from expanding excessively. Thus, the light source (3) can be prevented from being pressed toward a frame member (4). |
| US09285521B2 |
Photosensitive resin composition for color filter and uses thereof
The present invention relates to a photosensitive resin composition for a color filter and uses thereof. The photosensitive resin composition includes a pigment (A), an alkali-soluble resin (B), a cationic polymeric compound (C), a compound (D) having an ethylenically unsaturated group, a photoinitiator (E) and an organic solvent (F). The photosensitive resin composition according to the present invention can improve voltage holding ratio and developing-resistance of the color filter. |
| US09285519B2 |
Optical device using laterally-shiftable diffraction gratings
A double-sided grating divider acts as a light switch where the upper and lower grating dividers are arranged to accommodate a relative lateral shift therebetween of about one-fourth of the period of the diffraction grating elements and where the critical refraction angles of the grating dividers are more than about 43.6°. Lateral shift may be achieved by various devices including MEMS and metal couplers having a known/calibrated thermal coefficient of expansion over a temperature range of interest. |
| US09285518B2 |
Diffractive optical element, optical system, and optical apparatus
A diffractive optical element made by adhering a first diffractive grating and a second diffractive grating to each other, each of which has a blazed structure. At least one of the first and second diffractive gratings is made of a material having a refractive index distribution in a plane normal direction, and the predetermined expressions are satisfied for a wavelength λ in a visible wavelength range. |
| US09285515B2 |
Imaging optical system and projection exposure system including the same
An imaging optical system has a plurality of mirrors. These image an object field in an object plane into an image field in an image plane. In the imaging optical system, the ratio of a maximum angle of incidence of imaging light) on reflection surfaces of the mirrors and an image-side numerical aperture of the imaging optical system is less than 33.8°. This can result in an imaging optical system which offers good conditions for a reflective coating of the mirror, with which a low reflection loss can be achieved for imaging light when passing through the imaging optical system, in particular even at wavelengths in the EUV range of less than 10 nm. |
| US09285506B2 |
ITO film, ITO powder used in manufacturing same ITO film, manufacturing method of ITO powder, and manufacturing method of ITO film
An ITO film having a band gap in a range of 4.0 eV to 4.5 eV. |
| US09285505B2 |
Method for managing photovoltaic fleet output with the aid of a digital computer
Statistically representing point-to-point photovoltaic power estimation and area-to-point conversion of satellite pixel irradiance data are described. Accuracy on correlated overhead sky clearness is bounded by evaluating a mean and standard deviation between recorded irradiance measures and the forecast irradiance measures. Sky clearness over the two locations is related with a correlation coefficient by solving an empirically-derived exponential function of the temporal distance. Each forecast clearness index is weighted by the correlation coefficient to form an output set of forecast clearness indexes and the mean and standard deviation are proportioned. Additionally, accuracy on correlated satellite imagery is bounded by converting collective irradiance into point clearness indexes. A mean and standard deviation for the point clearness indexes is evaluated. The mean is set as an area clearness index for the bounded area. For each point, a variance of the point clearness index is determined and the mean and standard deviation are proportioned. |
| US09285503B2 |
Systems and methods for collecting, analyzing, recording, and transmitting fluid hydrocarbon production monitoring and control data
Systems and methods for collecting, analyzing, transmitting, and acting on information collected from instruments monitoring and controlling equipment used for natural gas well production collection and pipeline insertion platforms (skids). Said instruments may include handheld computing devices like the Apple iPhone, iPad, or other PDAs; said devices using short or long range, wired or wireless communication. The systems and methods reduce costs, errors, inefficiencies, and increase safety by giving the user simple GUI interfaces for data collection and for action items. The said handheld devices can guide the data collector to the skid location using GPS or other location based services, collect data via wired of wireless methods, guide the data collector through manual data input methods or safety action items, compare current readings to past history and evaluate current safety or out-of-tolerance conditions or entries, among other items. |
| US09285492B2 |
Identifying fracture planes from microseismic data
Systems, methods, and software can be used to identify fracture planes in a subterranean zone. In some aspects, data representing locations of microseismic events associated with a subterranean zone are received. Fracture plane parameters are calculated from the locations of the microseismic events. The fracture plane parameters are calculated based on a sum of weighted terms, and each of the weighted terms includes a weighting factor that decreases with a distance between at least one of the microseismic events and a fracture plane defined by the fracture plane parameters. |
| US09285489B2 |
Organic x-ray detector assembly and method of manufacturing same
An x-ray detector assembly is disclosed that includes a mounting substrate having a plurality of electrical contacts, the mounting substrate comprising one of an integrated circuit and a circuit board. The x-ray detector assembly also includes a first electrode patterned on a first portion of a top surface of the mounting substrate, wherein the first electrode is electrically coupled to the plurality of electrical contacts. An organic photodiode layer is formed atop the first electrode and has a bottom surface electrically connected to the first electrode. A second electrode is coupled to a top surface of the organic photodiode layer and a scintillator is coupled to the second electrode. |
| US09285487B2 |
Systems and methods for assaying an eluate for technetium and molybdenum content
A system for assaying an eluate for Technetium-99m and Molybdenum-99 content includes an inner ionization chamber including a well configured to receive the eluate, an outer ionization chamber concentric with the inner ionization chamber, and attenuating material positioned between the inner and outer ionization chambers. A computing device is configured to determine a Technetium-99m content of the eluate based on a first current measured in the inner ionization chamber, and determine a Molybdenum-99 content of the eluate based on at least a second current measured in the outer ionization chamber. |
| US09285485B2 |
GPS-enhanced vehicle velocity estimation
A method is provided for estimating vehicle velocity for a vehicle using a single-antenna global positioning system (GPS). An absolute speed and a course angle of the vehicle is measured using the single-antenna GPS. The yaw rates of the vehicle are measured independently of the GPS. An integrated yaw rate of the vehicle is calculated as a function of the measured yaw rates over a period of time. A yaw angle is determined as a function of a reference yaw angle and the integrated yaw rate. Aside slip angle is calculated as a function of the estimated yaw angle and the course angle provided by the GPS. The vehicle velocity is determined as a function of the absolute speed and the side slip angle. The vehicle velocity is provided to a vehicle dynamic control application. |
| US09285484B2 |
Method and apparatus for determining a position of a device relative to a virtual fence
The disclosure relates to determining a position of a mobile device relative to a perimeter of a virtual fence. An embodiment receives coordinates representing the perimeter of the virtual fence, determines a proximate location of the mobile device using a hybrid combination of a satellite-based proximate location and an auxiliary local station-based proximate location, and provides feedback based on a comparison of the proximate location of the mobile device to the coordinates representing the perimeter of the virtual fence. |
| US09285480B2 |
Detection and correction of carrier phase inconsistency during the tracking of a radio navigation signal
The invention relates to a method for tracking the carrier phase of a signal received from a satellite by a carrier using a carrier loop of the carrier phase, said signal being acquired by a navigation system of the carrier, said navigation system including a receiver for location by radio navigation, and a self-contained unit, wherein the receiver is suitable for acquiring and tracking the phase of the carrier of the signal from the satellite. |
| US09285477B1 |
3D depth point cloud from timing flight of 2D scanned light beam pulses
A light detection and ranging (LIDAR) system has an emitter which produces a sequence of outgoing pulses of coherent collimated light that transmitted in a given direction, a mirror system having a scanning mirror that is positioned to deflect the outgoing pulse sequence towards a scene, and a detector collocated with the emitter and aimed to detect a sequence of incoming pulses being reflections of the outgoing pulses that are returning from said given direction and have been deflected by the scanning mirror. An electronic controller communicates with the emitter and the detector and controls the scanning mirror, so that the outgoing pulses scan the scene and the controller computes a radial distance or depth for each pair of outgoing and incoming pulses and uses the computed radial distance to provide a scanned 3D depth map of objects in the scene. Other embodiments are also described. |
| US09285470B2 |
RFID tag distance measurer
A radio frequency identification (RFID) tag distance measuring system and method is disclosed. One example includes a first replica path that receives a signal that is simultaneously transmitted to an RFID tag. The first replica path includes a plurality of taps at known distances along the first replica path. Each of the plurality of taps has a first tap input coupled with the first replica path. In addition, an RFID signal receiver receives a return signal from the RFID tag and provides the return signal along a measurement input, wherein each of the plurality of taps have a second tap input coupled with the measurement path. A distance determiner detects at least the first of the plurality of taps to have an output and determine a distance measurement to the RFID tag based thereon. |
| US09285469B1 |
Multiplatform GMTI radar with enhanced SNR, monopulse
The present invention is directed to a ground moving target (GMTI) radar that can detect targets, including dismounts, with very small minimum detectable velocities by combining signals from antennas on different spatially separated platforms in a main beam clutter-suppressing spatially adaptive process without requiring that the relative positions of the antenna phase centers be accurately tracked. The clutter nulling is in addition to that provided by the Doppler filters. The spatial displacement provides a narrow mainbeam clutter null reducing undesired target suppression. The clutter-suppressing spatially adaptive structure is used in both the sum and delta channels of the monopulse processor so that the beam distortion caused by the spatial nulling is compensated for, and the monopulse look-up process is preserved to maintain angle accuracy. Noncoherent integration is employed to recover signal to noise loss resulting from the uncertain relative locations of the platforms. |
| US09285467B2 |
Radar apparatus, vehicle control system, and signal processing method
There is provided a radar apparatus. A setting unit is configured to set a first range including at least a reference target. A deriving unit is configured to derive a representative position of targets included in the first range on the basis of position information of the targets included in the first range. An acquiring unit is configured to acquire vehicle information indicating that the vehicle is running in a curve-shaped lane or a road shape in front of the vehicle is a curve shape. When the acquiring unit acquires the vehicle information, the setting unit sets a second range wider than the first range and the deriving unit derives a representative position of targets included in the second range on the basis of position information of the targets included in the second range. |
| US09285466B2 |
Deriving image data from data received from an ultrasound probe
Apparatus for producing image data representing a specimen being imaged using ultrasound includes a processor and memory. The processor receives input data representing output from an ultrasound probe, and performs an iterative algorithm on the input data until a converged estimate of the mean of the distribution of the image data is reached. This estimate is used to produce output image data for display. The algorithm uses a first matrix that is dependent upon attributes of the probe and upon the way in which the input data was produced, and a second matrix that is the inverse of the sum of: a positive scalar matrix having the same dimensions as the first matrix, and the product of a Hermitian transpose of the first matrix and the first matrix. One step of the algorithm uses the second matrix as a preconditioner. |
| US09285464B2 |
Devices and methods for a rotating LIDAR platform with a shared transmit/receive path
A LIDAR device may transmit light pulses originating from one or more light sources and may receive reflected light pulses that are then detected by one or more detectors. The LIDAR device may include a lens that both (i) collimates the light from the one or more light sources to provide collimated light for transmission into an environment of the LIDAR device and (ii) focuses the reflected light onto the one or more detectors. The lens may define a curved focal surface in a transmit path of the light from the one or more light sources and a curved focal surface in a receive path of the one or more detectors. The one or more light sources may be arranged along the curved focal surface in the transmit path. The one or more detectors may be arranged along the curved focal surface in the receive path. |
| US09285463B1 |
Method and apparatus for battle damage assessment of electric or electronic devices and systems
A method for assessing results from application of energy onto one or more electric or electronic devices includes the steps of acquiring an electromagnetic emission from the one or more devices, directing energy onto the one or more devices, acquiring another electromagnetic emission from the one or more devices having the energy directed thereonto and determining, in accordance with at least one logic algorithm state and/or change in state of the one or more devices. There is also a microprocessor based apparatus that is employed for acquiring the electromagnetic emissions and executing the at least one logic algorithm. Energy is directed by either a weapon or electromagnetic phenomena. |
| US09285458B2 |
Apparatus for indicating the location of a signal emitting tag
An apparatus for indicating the location of a signal emitting tag. The apparatus includes signal detectors, control logic, and at least one light producing device. The control logic activates the light producing device in response to receiving data from the signal detectors. After activation, the light producing device illuminates the location of an individual that is near the point of origin of a signal that was detected by the signal detectors. |
| US09285457B2 |
High-accuracy detection in collaborative tracking systems
An electronic device for wirelessly tracking the position of a second electronic device is disclosed. The electronic device includes transceiver circuitry and processing circuitry. The transceiver circuitry includes a beacon generator to generate a beacon at a particular frequency and direction. An antenna array transmits the beacon, and receives at least one modulated reflected beacon from the second electronic device. The transceiver circuitry also includes a discriminator to discriminate between received modulated reflected beacons and received reflected interfering beacons. The processing circuitry couples to the transceiver circuitry and tracks the position of the second device based on the modulated reflected beacons. |
| US09285454B2 |
Method, apparatus, and computer program product for processing received signals for locating
Example embodiments are directed to various aspects of processing received signals for determining a location of a source of the signals. An example method may include generating signal timing information, and determining times for a plurality of window periods for the signal of interest based on the signal timing information. The example method may also include retrieving, from a memory device that stores the signal stream, symbols of the signal of interest based on the window periods, and formatting the symbols of the signal of interest in preparation for determining a location of a source of the signal of interest. Additional and alternative methods and apparatuses are also provided. |
| US09285453B2 |
Method of near-field electromagnetic ranging and location
A method of near-field electromagnetic ranging and location exploits the long-wavelength, near-field characteristics of low-frequency RF signals like those in the vicinity of the AM broadcast band. These signals are robust against scattering from small objects and only mildly perturbed by the urban landscape including building structures. They are thus amenable to an RF fingerprinting approach exploiting a coarse calibration to capture the behavior of the gradually varying signal characteristics. In embodiments, a method of near-field electromagnetic ranging and location may exploit transmit tags transmitting to an infrastructure of locator-receivers, or locator-receiver tags detecting signals from an infrastructure of fixed transmitter beacons. In still further embodiments, fixed transmitter beacons may be supplemented by uncooperative signals sources including signals-of-opportunity like AM broadcast band signals. |
| US09285449B2 |
Systems and methods for imaging and quantifying tissue magnetism with magnetic resonance imaging
Systems and methods for imaging and quantifying tissue magnetism with magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) are disclosed. According to an aspect, a method for MRI includes using an MRI system to acquire multiple image echoes of an object. The method also includes combining the image echoes. Further, the method includes generating an image of the object based on the combined image echoes for depicting a characteristic of the object. |
| US09285444B2 |
Method for substance identification from NMR spectrum
The present invention relates to a method which allows for an automatic substance identification on the basis of an NMR spectrum. In the scope of the method, determining a multitude of integral ratio values, in each case from at least two integral values of the NMR spectrum, takes place, wherein each integral ratio value specifies the ratio of the height and/or area of the underlying spectral values, and determining a multitude of distance values, in each case from at least two position values of the NMR spectrum, takes place, wherein each distance value specifies the spectral distance between the underlying spectral values. The integral ratio values and the distance values are then used for substance identification. |
| US09285433B2 |
Battery management system, battery management apparatus, method of reusing battery, and information communication terminal apparatus
Provided is a method of reusing a battery, a battery management system, a battery management apparatus, and an information communication terminal apparatus, wherein, upon retrieving batteries mounted on vehicles, methods of handling the retrieved batteries can be determined at low cost. Measurement data of each of a plurality of stacks constituting a battery pack are transmitted to a data station. The data station stores the received measurement data in a history information storage unit as history information. When history information of a battery pack mounted on a scrapped vehicle is not stored in the history information storage unit of the data station, that battery pack is subjected to recycle processing. When history information thereof is stored in the history information storage unit of the data station, a method of reusing the battery pack is determined on the basis of the history information. |
| US09285430B2 |
Monitor system and method for stored battery
A monitor system for an inventoried battery includes at least one battery pack; at least one embedded monitor subsystem interfacing with the battery pack, the embedded monitor system adapted to acquire sensor data from the battery pack; and at least one archival data storage system interfacing with the embedded monitor subsystem, the archival data storage system adapted to archive the sensor data. A method of monitoring a stored battery is also disclosed. |
| US09285427B2 |
Testing apparatus and testing method of electronic device
A testing apparatus and a testing method of an electronic device are provided. The testing apparatus includes at least two device transfer plates and a testing circuit. The device transfer plates are electrically and respectively connected to corresponding electronic devices and at least two sockets corresponding to the electronic devices. The testing circuit is electrically connected to the device transfer plates respectively through at least two sets of serial signal wire pairs. According to types of the electronic devices, the testing circuit provides a serial signal to one of the device transfer plates through the corresponding serial signal wire pair and receives a response from another one of the device transfer plates through the corresponding serial signal wire pair, so as to test whether an open circuit is occurred to a bus between the electronic devices respectively corresponding to the device transfer plates. |
| US09285424B2 |
Method and system for logic built-in self-test
A controller executes a first LBIST test on a device at a first shift frequency on a plurality of partitions and detects any voltage drop at sense points in each partition during the test. If a voltage drop is detected, then the test is re-run for those partitions that failed the first test. If failures are detected during the re-execution, then a further test at a lower shift frequency is performed. The partitions can be tested sequentially or in parallel and invention has the advantage of reducing the time taken for executing LBIST when the device is booted. |
| US09285422B2 |
Tester and method for testing a strip of devices
A tester configured to test a strip of devices is provided. The tester may include a communications system, a plurality of communication lines, a plurality of multiplexors, each multiplexor having at least two outputs, wherein each multiplexor is configured to receive a signal generated by the communications system via one of the plurality of communication lines, and each multiplexor may be selectably coupled to at least two of the devices in the strip of devices. The tester may be configured to index the plurality of communication lines to a first subset of the devices, initiate at least one test, command the devices to generate data for each of the at least one tests, retrieve data from a first set of the devices, and retrieve data from a second set of the devices. |
| US09285416B2 |
Apparatus and method for manufacturing substrates
A substrate manufacturing apparatus includes a test apparatus including a test handler module for performing a test process on a substrate. The test handler module may include a conveyor unit to transfer a substrate, a handler unit for performing a test process on the substrate, and a transfer unit for transferring the substrate between the conveyor unit and the handler unit. The conveyor unit may include a feed conveyor and a discharge conveyor spaced apart from the feed conveyor. |
| US09285404B2 |
Test structure and methodology for estimating sensitivity of pressure sensors
A test structure includes two capacitor structures, wherein one of the capacitor structures has conductor plates spaced apart by a cavity, and the other capacitor structure does not include a cavity. Methodology entails forming the test structure and a pressure sensor on the same substrate using the same fabrication process techniques. Methodology for estimating the sensitivity of the pressure sensor includes detecting capacitances for each of the two capacitor structures and determining a ratio of the capacitances. A critical dimension of the cavity in one of the capacitor structures is estimated using the ratio, and the sensitivity of the pressure sensor is estimated using the critical dimension. |
| US09285401B2 |
Current detecting device and attaching structure thereof
A current detecting device includes a busbar, a magneto-electric converting element that outputs a signal in response to a magnetic field generated from the busbar, a housing that accommodates the busbar and the magneto-electric converting element, and a shield plate that is attached to the housing. The shield plate is formed in the U-shape in cross section in which an opening is formed between leading ends of a pair of side plates. The leading ends of the pair of side plates of the shield plate are located more inside than an opening peripheral edge of an opening portion of the outer frame portion so that a predetermined distance is secured between the leading ends of the pair of side plates of the shield plate and the opening peripheral edge of the opening portion of the outer frame portion. |
| US09285399B2 |
Switching regulator cycle-by-cycle current estimation
A switching regulator includes an output phase having a high-side transistor and a low-side transistor operable to switch on and off at different periods responsive to a pulse width modulation (PWM) signal applied to the output phase, each cycle of the PWM signal having an on-portion and an off-portion. The switching regulator further includes a current sense circuit operable to sense the current of the low-side transistor, an analog-to-digital converter operable to sample the sensed low-side transistor current during the off-portion for each PWM cycle and a current estimator operable to estimate a cycle average current for the present PWM cycle based on the low-side transistor current sampled during the off-portion for the immediately preceding PWM cycle and a pulse width estimate for the on-portion for the present PWM cycle. |
| US09285397B2 |
Temperature and supply voltage independent DC-DC current sensing
The present document relates to a current sensing circuit. In particular, the present document relates to a current sensing circuit which provides reliable indications of the current through a transistor. A current sensing circuit configured to provide an indication of a load current through a pass device is described. The current sensing circuit comprises a sensing replica of the pass device and a sensing resistor arranged in series with the sensing replica. The sensing resistor is arranged such that a voltage drop at the sensing resistor provides an indication of the load current through the pass device. |
| US09285396B2 |
Shock detector
A shock detector having an electrical detector having a set of water immersible electrodes for detecting hazardous water conditions through the determination of the presence of either an electrical current in a body of water, a voltage in the body of water or a voltage gradient in the body of water and then providing an alert to the existence of hazardous electrical conditions in the body of water which in some cases may transmitted to a power source to shut off a power source thereby removing the hazardous water condition. |
| US09285384B2 |
Device for preparing and/or treating a biological sample
The invention relates to a device for preparing and/or treating a biological sample including an assembly (2) of storage chambers (3) and/or reaction chambers intended for receiving a fluid and means arranged to move an amount of fluid from and/or to at least one of the chambers (3) of the assembly (2) of chambers (3), the chambers (3) being separated by walls (5) so as to form an assembly of adjacent chambers (3) aligned in a given direction. The means arranged to move an amount of fluid include a needle (6) connected to a transfer space (9), means (8) arranged to enable the suction of a liquid towards a chamber (3) from a transfer space (9) via a needle or delivery from the transfer space (9) to a chamber (3), and driving means (7) arranged to translate the needle (6) and the assembly (2) of chambers relative to one another in the chamber (3) alignment direction, and in that two adjacent chambers (3) are separated by a wall including a sealing membrane (5) or septum capable of being pierced by the needle (6) and of then recovering the seal thereof once the needle is removed. The invention also relates to a method for manufacturing such a device. |
| US09285381B2 |
Analyzing apparatus control system and program for chromatograph measurements
In an analyzing apparatus which is connected to a chromatograph, in which one more measurement events are performed based on a reference chromatogram, when multiple events overlap each other and are simultaneously performed, a loop time may become too long and therefore the measurement may not be properly performed. The system of the present invention includes: a time range displayer for displaying each of one or more measurement time ranges as a range bar; and a loop time displayer for computing a loop time, which is a time required for a unit measurement, for each of the measurement time ranges and displaying results of computations. Thereby, a user can intuitively know whether or not the measurement requires an adjustment. |
| US09285379B2 |
Information management apparatus and sample testing apparatus that permit functions based upon operator attributes
A sample testing apparatus comprising: a receiving section which receives identification information inputted by an operator; a testing section which tests a sample to obtain a test result; a memory which stores the test result, which is obtained by the testing section, so as to be associated with the identification information received by the receiving section; and a controller, wherein the controller is configured to: make a display section display only the test result associated with the identification information corresponding to a first attribute in the test results stored in the memory when the identification information received by the receiving section corresponds to the first attribute; and make the display section display test results which are stored in the memory when the identification information received by the receiving section corresponds to the second attribute is disclosed. An information management apparatus and sample testing method are also disclosed. |
| US09285378B2 |
Means and methods for diagnosing heart failure in a subject
The present invention relates to the field of diagnostic methods. Specifically, the present invention contemplates a method for diagnosing heart failure in a subject, a method for identifying whether a subject is in need for a therapy of heart failure or a method for determining whether a heart failure therapy is successful. The invention also relates to tools for carrying out the aforementioned methods, such as diagnostic devices. |
| US09285377B2 |
Cartridge device for a measuring system for measuring viscoelastic characteristics of a sample liquid, a corresponding measuring system, and a corresponding method
The present invention is directed to a cartridge device for a measuring system for measuring viscoelastic characteristics of a sample liquid, in particular a blood sample, comprising a cartridge body having at least one measurement cavity formed therein and having at least one probe element arranged in said at least one measurement cavity for performing a test on said sample liquid; and a cover being attachable on said cartridge body; wherein said cover covers at least partially said at least one measurement cavity and forms a retaining element for retaining said probe element in a predetermined position within said at least one measurement cavity. The invention is directed to a measurement system and a method for measuring viscoelastic characteristics of a sample liquid. |
| US09285376B2 |
Measuring range extension of chromatographic rapid tests
A method for the quantitative determination of an analyte in a sample is provided comprising: (a) providing an analyte-specific substance which is able to undergo a reaction which generates a detectable signal when it is contacted with an analyte; (b) providing at least two calibration graphs which have been generated by reacting in each case the same analyte-specific substance with different amounts of in each case the same test analyte for in each case a predetermined reaction time; (c) contacting the analyte-specific substance with a sample which contains the analyte to be detected; (d) measuring the signal at a first predetermined reaction time for which a first calibration graph according to (b) is provided; (c) checking whether the signal measured according to (d) enables a quantitative determination of the analyte with a desired accuracy; (f) (i) quantitatively determining the analyte on the basis of the signal measured according to (d) if the desired accuracy is reached, or (ii) measuring the signal at a second predetermined reaction time for which a second calibration graph according to (b) is provided; (g) checking whether the signal measured according to (f(ii)) enables a quantitative determination of the analyte with a desired accuracy; and (h) (i) quantitatively determining the analyte on the basis of the signal measured according to f(ii) if the desired accuracy is reached, or (ii) continuing the determination at at least one further predetermined reaction time (corresponding to (f)(ii), (g), (h)(i)). |
| US09285373B2 |
Methods and products for diagnosing autoimmune disease and gastric cancer linked with atrophic gastritis
The present invention relates to a method for examining a person having symptoms and/or biomarkers indicating an autoimmune disease for the presence of atrophic gastritis. The biomarker combination, which diagnoses atrophic gastritis, acts also as a part of a biomarker panel that helps diagnosis and assessment of autoimmune disease as well. The invention relates also to products used in these methods. |
| US09285367B2 |
Three-color reagent for measurement of CD4 positive lymphocytes by flow cytometry
The developed reagent is three-color immunophenotyping reagent for measurement of CD4 positive lymphocytes in peripheral blood. The reagent contains 7-aminoactinomycin D (7-AAD) which intercalates into double stranded DNA and is easily excited at 488 nm. The fluorescence emission of 7-AAD has peak at 670 nm that can be detected with FL3 detector of flow cytometer. The 7-AAD, therefore, stains white blood cells and discriminates it from red blood cells. The reagent also contains fluorescein isothiocyanate (FITC) labeled CD4 monoclonal antibody and phycoerythrin (PE) labeled CD14 monoclonal antibody which are detected with FL1 and FL2 detectors of flow cytometer, respectively. The developed reagent can be used to measure number of CD4 positive lymphocytes in lymphocyte population and monitor monocyte contamination simultaneously. This reagent therefore provides more accuracy results of CD4 positive lymphocyte enumeration. |
| US09285362B2 |
Measuring multiple analytes over a broad range of concentrations using optical diffraction
Methods, devices, and kits for measuring multiple analytes in a sample having a broad range of concentrations using optical diffraction are disclosed. Devices, methods, and kits useful for monitoring and diagnosing diabetes, cardiovascular disease, thyroid disease, hormone-related conditions, and sepsis are also described. |
| US09285348B2 |
Automated system for handling components of a chromatographic system
An automated system for handling components of a chromatographic system, comprising: one or more trap columns each having sorbent material therein; a robotic system for moving a trap column from a storage position to an operating position where the trap column is connected in a liquid pathway along which solvent is flowed in operation to a liquid chromatography (LC) column; and an optical sensor for sensing one or more parameters of the trap column. Sensed parameters can include: a presence or absence of a trap column in the operating position, a position or orientation of the trap column, a fluid level in the trap column, the presence and position of a sorbent material in the trap column, the condition of the trap column and/or whether the trap column is new or used. |
| US09285346B2 |
Pipe processing device and pipe processing method
A pipe processing device provided with a subject insertion body (1) includes an insertion end portion (2) that is provided on a front side of the subject insertion body inserted into the pipe and is formed on an outer diameter smaller than an inner diameter of the pipe, an axial ultrasonic sensor (21) that transmits and receives a sonic wave in an insertion direction with respect to a front end of the insertion end portion, a radial ultrasonic sensor (22) that transmits and receives a sonic wave in a direction intersecting a center axis at a side portion of the insertion end portion, and a control unit that controls the movement mechanism according to detection results of the axial ultrasonic sensor and the radial ultrasonic sensor. |
| US09285345B2 |
Electromagnet inspection apparatus with a movable magnet and method for non-destructive testing of electrically conductive test components
An inspection tool for the non-destructive testing of a test component made of an electrically conductive material is described. The inspection tool employs movably mounted permanent magnets, which provides a means for generating a variable DC magnetic field within the test component, and eddy current probes so as to provide a means for performing a partial saturation eddy current test upon the test component. The eddy current probe preferably comprises an integrated magnetic field sensor which increases the accuracy and flexibility of the modes of operation of the described apparatus and methods. The described apparatus and methods are particularly suited for the inspection of tubular components that are often remotely located within the oil and gas exploration and production industries. |
| US09285343B2 |
Multi-dimentional ion mobility separator method and apparatus
One aspect of the present invention is to extract multiple ionic species in a FAIMS into one or more IMS drift tubes simultaneously. By adjusting FAIMS operational parameters, ions in FAIMS are detected on IMS detectors through separation in FAIMS and/or separation and collection in the IMS. This method provides a continuous separation of specific ions from an ion swarm by employing a high-field differential mobility analyzer (FAIMS) with a plurality of orthogonal transitions paths spaced incrementally along the electrodes which allow additional separation by a conventional IMS drift tube. The components of the sample can be collected or detected. |
| US09285342B2 |
Ion mobility spectrometer system
An ion mobility spectrometer system is disclosed. In one aspect, the system includes a gas chromatograph, first and second ion mobility spectrometers, and a sample feed device that feeds a sample from the gas chromatograph to the first and second ion mobility spectrometers. The sample feed device includes an inner chamber, first and second sample outlets for outputting the sample from the gas chromatograph to the first and second ion mobility spectrometers, respectively, and a gas inlet for inputting a gas into the sample feed device. The system detects and identifies molecules at improved resolution and enhanced molecule information. The system detects positive and negative ions, interrelates positive-mode and negative-mode spectrums, and separates substances. |
| US09285339B2 |
DNA sequencing using multiple metal layer structure with different organic coatings forming different transient bondings to DNA
A nanodevice includes a reservoir filled with conductive fluid and a membrane separating the reservoir. A nanopore is formed through the membrane having electrode layers separated by insulating layers. A certain electrode layer has a first type of organic coating and a pair of electrode layers has a second type. The first type of organic coating forms a motion control transient bond to a molecule in the nanopore for motion control, and the second type forms first and second transient bonds to different bonding sites of a base of the molecule. When a voltage is applied to the pair of electrode layers a tunneling current is generated by the base in the nanopore, and the tunneling current travels via the first and second transient bonds formed to be measured as a current signature for distinguishing the base. The motion control transient bond is stronger than first and second transient bonds. |
| US09285336B2 |
Sensing platform for quantum transduction of chemical information
A system for determining chemistry of a molecule in a high background interfering liquid environment by application of an electronic signal at a biased metal-electrolyte interface is disclosed. One or more of a resonant exchange of energy between one or more electrons exchanged by the metal and the electrolyte and vibrating bonds of a molecular analyte, for example, may be sensed by measuring small signal conductivity of an electrochemical interface. |
| US09285335B2 |
Method for measuring blood components and biosensor and measuring instrument for use therein
The present invention provides a method of measuring a component in blood, by which the amounts of blood cells and an interfering substance can be measured with high accuracy and high reliability and the amount of the component can be corrected accurately based on the amounts of the blood cells and the interfering substance. In a sensor for measuring a blood component, a first working electrode 13 measures a current that flows during a redox reaction of a blood component, a second working electrode 17 measures the amount of blood cells, and a third working electrode 12 measures the amount of an interfering substance. Next, based on the measurement results, the amount of the blood component to be measured is corrected. Thus, more accurate and precise measurement of the amount of the blood component can be realized. |
| US09285334B2 |
Hybrid dielectric moisture sensors
A moisture sensor includes a first electrode, a layer of porous insulating material including a plurality of pores, a film of dielectric sensing material covering the inner surfaces of the plurality of pores and a second electrode. |
| US09285329B2 |
Method of analysing a sample of material by diffractometry and associated diffractometer
A method for analyzing a sample by diffractometry and a diffractometer, where the diffractometer includes a collimated source, a detection collimator, and a spectrometric detector, the detection axis of the detector and the collimator form a diffraction angle with the central axis of an incident beam and an energy spectrum is established for each pixel of the detector. The measured spectra are readjusted by a change in variable that takes into account the energy of the scattered radiation and the angle of observation. The measured are combined and a check is made on the implementation of at least one multi-material criterion representative of the presence of a plurality of layers of materials and groups of pixels are formed according to the results of this check, where each group corresponds to a single layer of material and the measured spectra obtained for the pixels of the group are combined. |
| US09285326B2 |
Sparse and energy discriminating collimated detector elements to assist scatter evaluation in CT imaging
A computed-tomography apparatus that includes a CT scanner including an X-ray source and a detector covering respective angle ranges in the axial and transaxial planes of the CT scanner. The CT detector includes first detector elements disposed on a first surface to capture incident X-ray photons emitted from the X-ray source, and second detector elements sparsely disposed on a second surface different from the first surface, the second surface being farther away from the scanner than the first surface, the second detector elements being smaller in number than the first detector elements. Each of the second detector elements is reachable only by X-ray photons originating in a small angle range around a line connecting the X-ray source and a center of the surface of the detector element, the small angle range being determined by the predetermined distance separating the first and second surfaces and a size of the detector element. |
| US09285322B2 |
pH modulation methods and systems for detecting binding events
Methods and systems for detecting binding between first and second molecules using a pH-sensitive fluorophore. A change in fluorescence emission intensity of the fluorophore is indicative of binding. |
| US09285321B2 |
Fluorescence detection device
A fluorescence detection device includes: a light source that emits excitation light in a first direction; a base unit (30) to which the light source is attached; an opening (30a) that is provided on a side in the first direction of the base unit (30) with respect to the light source; a cantilever (31) that is cantilevered to the base unit (30) to extend from an inner edge of the opening (30a) toward a center side of the opening (30a); an optical path conversion unit (20) that is fixed to a free end of the cantilever (31), converts a traveling direction of the excitation light emitted from the light source into a second direction different from the first direction, and irradiates a measurement object with the excitation light turned in the second direction; and a photodetection element that is disposed on a side of the opening (30a) opposite to the measurement object and detects fluorescence passing through the opening (30a) in fluorescence emitted from the measurement object irradiated with the excitation light. Accordingly, a loss in the fluorescence guided to the photodetection element can be reduced, and thus fluorescence detection efficiency can be improved. |
| US09285319B2 |
Nucleic acid base analogs with quenching and fluorescent activities and applications thereof
It is an object of the present invention to provide quenching or fluorescent nucleic acid base analogs and applications thereof. The quencher of the present invention has a 2-nitropyrrole structure represented by Formula I:[Formula 1] (in Formula I, R1 and R2 are groups independently selected from the group consisting of: ribose and deoxyribose; hydrogen, hydroxyl and SH groups, and halogens; substituted or unsubstituted alkyl, alkenyl, and alkynyl groups each having 2 to 10 carbon atoms; one or more five-membered heterocyclic rings, one or more six-membered heterocyclic rings, and one or more fused heterocyclic rings, these heterocylic rings containing nitrogen or sulfur, and one or more aromatic rings; sugars, sugar chains, amino acids, and peptides; and fluorescent molecules linked via linkers). |
| US09285318B2 |
Optical instrument including excitation source
An optical instrument is provided for simultaneously illuminating two or more spaced-apart reaction regions with an excitation beam generated by a light source. A collimating lens can be disposed along a beam path between the light source and the reaction regions to form bundles of collimated excitation beams, wherein each bundle corresponds to a respective reaction region. Methods of analysis using the optical instrument are also provided. |
| US09285317B2 |
Apparatus and method for determining the amounts of two or more substances present in a liquid
An apparatus for determining the total amount of two or more substances in a liquid, at least one of said substances comprising a fluorescent substance, said apparatus comprising: a mass spectrometer device; a fluorometer device; and a processing means; wherein said mass spectrometer device is adapted to obtain a periodic measurement of the total amount of said two or more substances in the liquid, said fluorometer device being adapted to detect the fluorescent response of said at least one fluorescent substance in said liquid to an excitation signal, said processing means being programmed to determine a calibration factor by comparing a measurement obtained by the fluorometer device with said periodic measurement of the total amount of said two or more substances present obtained by the mass spectrometer device, the processing means subsequently using said calibration factor to determine measurements representative of the total amount of both fluorescent and non-fluorescent substances present in the liquid based upon the fluorescent response detected by the fluorometer device. |
| US09285314B2 |
Systems and methods enabling high-throughput, real time detection of analytes
System and methods for detecting analytes are provided. The system includes a plasmonic interferometer with a first surface having a first and second scattering element and an aperture disposed between the first scattering element and the second scattering element. A first distance between the aperture and the first scattering element and a second distance between the aperture and the second scattering element are selected to provide interference of light at the slit. The system also includes a light source for illuminating the first surface of the plasmonic interferometer, a detector positioned for detecting light transmitted through the aperture, and a sample holder for disposing a sample to be analyzed onto the first surface of the plasmonic interferometer. |
| US09285313B2 |
Recording medium determining device and recording medium determination method
A recording medium determining device includes a light irradiating portion that irradiates a recording medium with visible light; a regular reflection light receiving portion that receives regular reflection light regularly reflected by the recording medium irradiated with light from the light irradiating portion; a diffused reflection light receiving portion that receives diffused reflection light diffusely reflected by the recording medium irradiated with light from the light irradiating portion; and a determining portion that determines the type of recording medium on the basis of each light amount of two or more visible light components with different wavelengths to one another among the light components received by the regular reflection light receiving portion and each light amount of two or more visible light components with different wavelengths to one another among the light components received by the diffused reflection light receiving portion. |
| US09285312B2 |
Reflection probe
The invention relates to a reflection probe for measuring properties of liquid and/or solid substances, and to the use thereof. |
| US09285307B2 |
Characterization of crude oil by ultraviolet visible spectroscopy
A system and a method for calculating the cetane number, pour point, cloud point and aniline point of a gas oil fraction of crude oil from the density and ultraviolet visible spectroscopy of a sample of the crude oil. |
| US09285306B2 |
Temperature calibration methods and apparatus for optical absorption gas sensors, and optical absorption gas sensors thereby calibrated
An optical absorption gas sensor has an LED light source and a photodiode light detector, a temperature measuring device for measuring the LED temperature and a temperature measuring device for measuring the photodiode temperature. The sensor is calibrated by measuring the response of photodiode current at zero analyte gas concentration and at a reference analyte gas concentration. From these measurement, calibration data taking into account the effect of photodiode temperature on the sensitivity of the photodiode and, independently, the effect of changes in the spectrum of light output by the LED on the light detected by the photodiode with LED temperature can be obtained. Calibration data is written to memory in the gas sensor and in operation of the gas sensor, the output is compensated for both LED and photodiode temperature. The LED and photodiode can therefore be relatively far apart and operate at significantly different temperatures allowing greater freedom of optical pathway design. |
| US09285303B2 |
Optical biosensor with a plurality of sensor regions and a detector having a detector plane wherein at least one primary image is mapped onto the whole detector plane
The invention relates to an optical sensor device (100) that comprises a plurality of objectives (152) for generating primary images of corresponding sensor regions (111). The primary images are then mapped with intermediate optics (153) onto a detector plane (154), particularly onto the sensitive plane of an image sensor. |
| US09285298B2 |
Method of analyzing microparticle composition and microparticle composition analyzing device
A method of analyzing microparticle compositions and a microparticle composition analyzing device are capable of quantitatively analyzing the mass concentration of air microparticles online for each chemical composition. The particle ray of microparticles in an air sample is converged, and is irradiated onto a narrow domain of a capture body which includes a mesh-shaped structure for capturing the microparticles in the particle ray while removing surplus gas phase components, and the microparticles are captured. Then, the narrow region is subjected to concentrated irradiation of energy rays, and the microparticles that are captured by the capture body are vaporized, sublimated or reacted to yield a desorbed component, which is analyzed. |
| US09285294B2 |
Mobile asset data recorder and transmitter
An acceleration-based mobile asset data recorder and transmitter equipped with a wireless processing unit, an event recorder, a digital video recorder, a fuel level sensor, and an inertial navigation sensor board. The inertial navigation sensor board includes a 3-axis gyroscope, a 3-axis accelerometer, a 3-axis magnetometer, and a microcontroller. The data recorder and transmitter allows for automatic orientation, automatic compass calibration, fuel compensation with pitch and roll, emergency brake application with impact detection, rough operating condition detection, engine running detection, and inertial navigation of a mobile asset. Users can use the normal operation of their mobile assets to locate and alert, in real-time, areas where their assets are encountering rough operating environments, to provide for quicker emergency response, and to validate the effectiveness of repairs and rerouting. |
| US09285293B2 |
Tire performance prediction method and method of designing tire
Disclosed is a method for predicting tire performance in which a tire model, which comprises a tread pattern capable of imparting deformation by means of ground contact and/or transfer, and a snow model, in which a snow-covered road surface that comes into contact with the tire model is represented, are used to predict tire performance on the snow-covered road surface on the basis of physical quantities that occur in at least either of the tire model and the snow model. The snow model is modeled as an elasto-plastic body or an elastic body, the nonlinearity of the volume compression property of snow is represented by the relationship between the density or volume strain of the snow and the pressure of the snow, and the shear property of the snow is represented by the relationship between the yield stress of the snow and the pressure of the snow. |
| US09285285B2 |
Sensor unit for measuring brake force of parking cable and electronic parking brake with the same
Disclosed is a sensor unit having a simple sensor structure to detect intensity of force applied to a parking cable upon braking a vehicle and an electronic parking brake with the same. The disclosed sensor unit includes a sensor housing, in which a Hall IC is installed to sense variation of magnetic force caused by displacement of a magnet, a magnet housing arranged to be movable within the sensor housing, the magnet being installed in the magnet housing, and an elastic member arranged between the magnet housing and the sensor housing, to elastically support the magnet housing. The magnet housing is coupled to a power conversion unit to operate for pulling of the parking cable or release of the pulling. |
| US09285284B2 |
Torque estimation method for transmission clutch
A method of estimating a torque of a transmission clutch may include correcting an error by deducing an engine transient torque based on an engine angular velocity measured using a sensor, an engine static torque deduced using a data map, and a load torque depending on a driving load, deducing an engine angular velocity estimation value based on the engine static torque and the engine transient torque, and deducing a clutch torque estimation value depending on a slip in the transmission clutch from a difference between the engine angular velocity estimation value and the measured engine angular velocity. |
| US09285283B2 |
Adaptive wireless torque measurement system and method
An adaptive wireless torque measurement system includes a rotor, a rotor antenna, a stator antenna, stator electronics, and rotor electronics. The rotor antenna is attached to the rotor. The stator antenna is configured to be inductively coupled to the rotor antenna. The stator electronics are coupled to receive, via the stator antenna, feedback data and are configured, in response thereto, to generate and transmit, via the stator antenna, power signals at a power level magnitude based in part on the feedback data. The rotor electronics are attached to the rotor and are coupled to receive, via the rotor antenna, the power signals transmitted by the stator electronics. The rotor electronics are configured to determine the power level magnitude of the power signals, generate the feedback data, the feedback data at least including information representative of the determined power level magnitude, and transmit, via the rotor antenna, the feedback data. |
| US09285280B2 |
Systems and methods of determining load temperatures
Systems and computer-implemented methods of determining a temperature of a load introduced into a chamber are provided. The computer-implemented method includes applying a power output to a medium in at least a portion of a chamber at a level to modify the temperature of the medium to achieve a predetermined medium temperature. A steady state power output level to achieve the predetermined medium temperature is determined using a computer processor. A load having a load temperature other than the predetermined medium temperature is received into the at least a portion of the chamber. The method includes determining that the load temperature is substantially at the predetermined medium temperature using the computer processor when the power output level reaches the determined steady state power output level and without any direct temperature measurement of the load. |
| US09285278B2 |
System and methods for thermal control using sensors on die
A portable electronic device including a temperature sensor embedded in a die is provided. To process temperature measurements the portable electronic device includes a processor circuit coupled to the temperature sensor, the processor circuit configured to read a measurement from the temperature sensor when an integrated circuit in the die is inactive. Furthermore, a memory circuit coupled to the processor circuit and the temperature sensor stores a temperature gradient provided by the temperature sensor. A Printed Circuit Board for use in a portable electronic device as above is also provided. A method for performing thermal control in a portable electronic device as above is also provided. |
| US09285277B2 |
Temperature sensor
A temperature sensor has a temperature sensitive element for detecting a temperature, a sheath pin having core wires electrically connected to the temperature sensitive element, lead wires to output a detection signal of the temperature sensitive element to an outside device, connectors through which the core wires and the lead wires are connected, and a protection tube accommodating the core wires, the lead wires and the connectors. The protection tube has a supporting member made of an elastic member having inserting and supporting holes through which the connectors are inserted and supported. Each connector has a circular arc part and claw parts. The circular arc part is made along a profile of a front end part of each lead wire. The claw parts are formed at both the end parts of the circular arc part. Each claw part pushes an inner wall surface of the corresponding inserting and supporting hole. |
| US09285270B2 |
Spectrometer module
A spectroscopic module 1 is provided with a spectroscopic unit 8 and a photodetector 9 in addition to a spectroscopic unit 7 and a photodetector 4 and thus can enhance its detection sensitivity for light in a wide wavelength range or different wavelength regions of light. A light-transmitting hole 4b is disposed between light detecting portions 4a, 9a, while a reflection unit 6 is provided so as to oppose a region R in a light-absorbing substrate 2, whereby the size can be kept from becoming larger. Ambient light La is absorbed by the region R in the substrate 2. Any part of the light La transmitted through the region R in the substrate 2 is reflected to the region R by the unit 6 formed so as to oppose the region R, whereby stray light can be inhibited from being caused by the incidence of the light La. |
| US09285266B2 |
Object detector including a light source with light emitting region of a first size in a first direction and a second size in a second direction
An object detector includes a light source; an optical system that converts a light beam emitted from the light source into a predetermined state; a deflector that deflects and scans the light beam passing through the optical system, and that irradiates the light beam onto an object; and a photo detector that detects reflected light or scattered light. A first size of a light emitting region of the light source is different from a second size of the light emitting region, wherein the first size is a first width of the light emitting region in a first direction, and the second size is a second width of the light emitting region in a second direction. One of the first direction and the second direction corresponding to a smaller one of the first size and the second size coincides with a direction in which angular resolution is higher. |
| US09285265B2 |
Integrated module having multiple light emitters or sensors for televisions and other appliances
Compact optoelectronic modules are described and can be used in various electronic or other appliances, such as television units. For example, a light emitting device, a first sensor or sensor module such as an infra-red sensor or an infra-red receiver module, and a second sensor or sensor module such as an ambient light sensor or ambient light sensor module, can be integrated into a single compact optoelectronic module. Multiple such optoelectronic modules can be fabricated in a wafer-level process. |
| US09285264B2 |
Vibration measuring apparatus for nuclear reactor internal structure and vibration measurement method therefor
A vibration measuring apparatus for nuclear reactor internal structure includes a holder which has an opening contact on a surface of a pressure vessel of a nuclear reactor; a vibrator accommodated in the holder so as to transmit or receive an ultrasonic wave; a couplant with which the holder is filled up; and, a bias component applies a biasing force to the vibrator in the direction of the opening; The couplant is a solid state of metal material at normal temperature and change to liquid stage by heat transfer from the pressure vessel. |
| US09285260B2 |
Apparatus and methods for measuring and or adjusting the height of material in the bin of a hopper assembly
At least one probe assembly is used to measure the height of material dispensed into the bin of a hopper assembly. |
| US09285258B2 |
Housing arrangement for a flow meter
A housing arrangement for a flow meter that has at least one housing (2) and at least one display device (3) which is located on the housing (2). The maintenance effort for the flow meter is reduced by there being at least one photovoltaic cell on the housing in a manner configured and arranged surrounding the at least one display device. |
| US09285257B2 |
Gas meter for ultrasound measurements in a breathing apparatus having self-draining conduit arrangement
A gas meter for ultrasound measurements in a breathing apparatus has a gas conduit having an inner wall defining an inlet of the gas conduit and an outlet in a second end of the gas conduit, and an ultrasound transducer arrangement configured to measure the speed of sound in a gas flowing through a part of said gas conduit forming a measurement chamber. The gas meter has a self-draining design to prevent condensation water and other liquids from negatively affecting the ultrasound measurements. To this end, at least a lower surface of the inner wall of the gas conduit is inclined downwardly relative to the horizontal plane in the longitudinal direction of the gas conduit, at both sides of the measurement chamber causing condensation water to be pulled away from the measurement chamber by gravity. |
| US09285255B2 |
Flow meter
Disclosed aspects relate to a flow meter comprising a flow target arranged to be disposed in a fluid flow path in a conduit; a beam coupled to the flow target and arranged to extend outside of the conduit; a sensor having a moveable sensor part coupled to the beam at a position which in use is outside of the conduit, and a static sensor part, wherein displacement of the moveable sensor part with respect to the static sensor part generates a signal. In use, fluid flow acting on the flow target causes displacement of the moveable sensor part, thereby generating a signal which is representative of the fluid flow rate. |
| US09285253B2 |
Testing of a measuring device arrangement, corresponding measuring device arrangement and test arrangement
A method for testing of a measuring device arrangement (1), the measuring device arrangement (1) comprising a measuring device (2) which, based on the determination of a measured quantity, generates an output signal which can be tapped from a pick-off site (3) as a pick-off signal. A method for monitoring a measuring device arrangement is devised that constitutes an inline test that does not interrupt the measurement or the transfer of the measured values is achieved in that an action is applied to the measuring device (2) such that the measuring device (2) generates a test signal as the output signal, and that the output signal and/or a signal which is dependent on it is influenced such that the pick-off signal is a definable setting signal. |
| US09285252B1 |
Sensor and housing suitable for harsh environments
A sensor and housing suitable for harsh environments includes a central axis and first and second housing sections. The first housing section includes a first fitting including a mating surface orthogonal to the axis and a tapered recess formed in the mating surface and coaxial with the axis. The tapered recess has a decreasing internal dimension at points further from the mating surface and terminates at a faceted recess. The second housing section includes a second fitting having a flange and a frusto-conical projection terminating in a faceted tip. When the first and second housing are coupled, the flange and mating surface are aligned, the frusto-conical projection contacts an interior surface of the first fitting that defines the tapered recess, and the faceted tip seats within the faceted recess. The housing may include a head for housing sensor electronics and a shield that encloses the head and is spaced from the head by an air gap. |
| US09285248B2 |
Microelectronic displacement damage dose detector
A device is described that includes sensors that are sensitive to displacement damage, and can be configured to display a characteristic damage curve. The sensors, or diodes, can be made of one or more semiconductor materials that are sensitive to displacement damage, and can be operated in dark illumination conditions. The sensors can have multiple shields of a specific or varied thickness. The shields can be formed in different configurations, though the shielding thickness can be designed to change the level of displacement damage absorbed by the sensors. The characteristic damage curve can provide a sensor response variable that displays a functional dependence on displacement damage. For example, the characteristic damage curve can provide a sensor response variable that is one or more currents measured at one or more fixed voltages, or one or more voltages measured at one or more fixed currents. |
| US09285242B2 |
Determining a connectivity model in smart grids
Methods and arrangements for determining a network connectivity model. Meters are interfaced with, and periodic synchronous power-related measurements are collected from different meters. Measurement messages are sent to a predetermined location for being consolidated and processed, and a network connectivity model is thereupon determined. |
| US09285239B2 |
User interface for content channel HUD (heads-up display) and channel sets for location-based maps
A navigation device for displaying at least one point-of-interest on a map comprises a channel set module to record a user defined channel set. The channel set includes at least one point-of-interest criteria. A channel set options module provides a user of the navigation device with an option to select the channel set. A channel set display module displays the point-of-interest criteria associated with the user selected channel set. |
| US09285238B2 |
Navigation server, navigation apparatus, and navigation system
Provided is a navigation system capable of matching map information used by a navigation apparatus and a navigation server with an appropriate frequency and at an appropriate timing. When there is differential information between the navigation map information and the support map information, index information for identifying the differential information is transmitted from the navigation server to the navigation apparatus and the navigation apparatus outputs preliminary information indicating a brief summary of the differential information generated according to the index information. When a request signal based on a request operation by a user in the navigation apparatus is transmitted from the navigation apparatus to the navigation server, the differential information is transmitted form the navigation server to the navigation apparatus, so that the navigation map information is updated in accordance with the differential information. |
| US09285236B2 |
Navigation method and apparatus for mobile terminal
A navigation method, apparatus, and a computer readable medium for a mobile terminal support a display mode that provides a good field of view and enhanced readability. An input signal for enabling a route guidance function is received. Map data for route guidance is outputted when the route guidance function is enabled. Whether to activate a heads-up display (HUD) mode is determined. When the HUD mode is activated, only preset guidance information items that are extracted from the map data are displayed. Hence, the driver does not have to look away from the road to view the map on the screen, significantly reducing the risk of traffic accidents. Simplified route guidance information is provided to solve poor map readability due to screen size limitations of a mobile terminal. |
| US09285233B2 |
Display control apparatus
A display control apparatus for controlling a display device including a screen having a plurality of areas so as to assign and display a content on a corresponding area, includes: a content managing unit managing the content by associating content information; an area managing unit managing the area by associating area information; and a content assignment control unit determining a combination of the content and the area. The content assignment control unit generates a content list, generates an area list, extracts a combination list based on the area list and the content list, calculates an evaluation reference value of each combination list based on the content information and the area information, selects the combination list based on the evaluation reference value of each combination list, and determines a combination. |
| US09285232B2 |
Determining a patrol path
A method of determining a path comprises obtaining a path in a road net, the road net comprising a plurality of nodes; calculating, with a processing device, an event displacement probability within coverage of the path, wherein the event displacement probability is used to describe a possibility of displacement of an event that could have occurred within the coverage of the path, to outside the coverage of the path to occur; and changing the path based on the event displacement probability. |
| US09285223B1 |
System and method for identifying heading of a moving vehicle using accelerometer data
A method for determining a yaw angle estimate or vehicle heading direction is presented. A potential range of yaw angles is generated based on a plurality of primary telematics data. One or more yaw angle estimates are generated from the potential range of yaw angles. A driving pattern is determined based on at least one of the yaw angle estimates. The primary telematics data is a plurality of telematics data originated from a client computing device. The effects of gravity have been removed from the plurality of telematics data in a first primary movement window. |
| US09285219B2 |
Technique for determining location data from a database
A technique for determining location data from a database is presented. A method implementation of that technique comprises receiving a first user input defining an extension of a search corridor relative to a map visualized on a display unit. The search corridor extends from a first map area to a second map area spaced apart from the first map area. In response to a second user input defining one or more characters, location data are determined of at least one location associated with the one or more characters and lying within the search corridor. The technique may be used for searching for an intermediate or target location in connection with calculating a route. |
| US09285215B2 |
Belt alignment tool and system of use
A system for alignment of a pulley system and a method of use are provided. A laser alignment tool includes an arcuate front surface having a target pattern of parallel vertical lines. The tool is provided with a laser light source that projects a laser light beam through an aperture in the front surface. A pair of laser alignment tools may be mounted on two pulleys of a pulley system such that the laser light beams are displayed on the target pattern of the opposite laser alignment tool. In the event of a misalignment, the laser light beams displayed on the target patterns do not align with the vertical lines thereon. A user may adjust the pulleys so that the laser light beams produced by each laser alignment tool are aligned with the vertical lines of the opposite laser alignment tool to achieve alignment of the pulley system. |
| US09285212B2 |
Optical system for posture detection comprising a scanning light source and a cube corner
The general field of the invention is that of systems for detecting the posture of a mobile object in space. The system according to the invention comprises an electro-optical device comprising a light source, a photoreceptor and means of analysis, and a retro-reflecting cube corner disposed on the mobile object. The cube corner comprises a mask disposed on its entry face. The source emits a parallel or almost-parallel pencil beam. The electro-optical device comprises means for deviating, about a fixed point, the said pencil beam of light by an angle varying as a function of time. The photoreceptor is configured for receiving the pencil beam of light retro-reflected by the cube corner. The means of analysis are configured in such a manner as to determine, based on the signal coming from the photoreceptor, the position of a number of points representative of the borders of the mask and, using this positional information, the posture of the cube corner in space. |
| US09285211B2 |
Height detecting apparatus
A height detecting apparatus for detecting the height of a workpiece held on a chuck table. The height detecting apparatus includes a single-mode fiber for transmitting return light reflected from the workpiece and next branched by a fiber coupler, a photodetector for detecting the return light emerging from the single-mode fiber and outputting a signal corresponding to the intensity of the return light detected above, and a controller having a memory for storing a table setting the relation between wavelength and height. The controller determines the wavelength corresponding to the highest light intensity from the wavelengths detected by the photodetector in synchronism with the predetermined cycles of sweeping of light having a single wavelength by a Fabry-Perot tunable filter, and then checks this determined wavelength against the wavelength and height set in the table, thereby determining the height of the workpiece held on the chuck table. |
| US09285210B2 |
Method for measuring a storage frame
The present invention relates to method for measuring a storage frame having at least one tray defining an at least one approximately horizontal storing plane and being used for storing rod-like elements, the rod-like elements serving for storing products, each having a sausage-shaped body and a loop for a pendulously storage of the products on a rod-like element. The method comprising the steps of moving the storage frame into the operating range of a measuring apparatus, scanning the storage frame by the measuring apparatus for detecting and recording data regarding geometrical dimensions of the storage frame including at least the height of the tray. The method further comprises the steps of referring the height of the tray to a reference height, creating a dataset including at least said height, storing the dataset in a data memory device, and creating a link between the dataset and the respective storage frame. |
| US09285208B2 |
Real-time resampling of optical coherence tomography signals using a field programmable gate array
A signal processing system implemented on a Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) operates according to a low frequency K-Clock to sample Optical Coherence Topography (OCT) signals, as opposed to relying on a high frequency K-Clock to obtain the same information. A resampler is used to resample the OCT signal uniformly in the optical frequency domain. The resampling may be performed by extracting instantaneous phase information from a low-frequency digitized K-Clock signal, unwrapping the extracted phase information, multiplying the unwrapped extracted phase information with an interpolation factor to obtain recalculated phase information, determining one or more integer crossing points corresponding to the recalculated phase information, and interpolating one or more values of the OCT signal based on the one or more integer crossing points. The integer crossing points may represent points in phase divisible by 360 degrees, within the range of points in phase defined by the recalculated phase information. |
| US09285207B2 |
Linear capacitive displacement sensor
A method and system for measuring displacement of a structure is disclosed. The method and system comprise providing a first capacitance and providing a second capacitance. The first and second capacitances share a common terminal. The method and system further include determining a difference of the inverses of the value of the first and second capacitances when the structure is displaced. The first capacitance varies in inverse relation to the displacement of the structure. |
| US09285206B1 |
Measurement device for pile displacement and method for use of the same
A displacement measuring system to measure the displacement of a structural object that includes a transmitter having a signal generator and an antenna wherein the antenna is securable relative to one of a displaced object and a support. The antenna defines a transmitter axis that is parallel to the displacement axis of the object and a centerline that is perpendicular to the displacement axis. The system further includes a first receiver and a second receiver having antennas securable relative to the other of the object and the support. The receiver antennas are positioned along a receiver axis that is parallel to the displacement axis and being spaced along the receiver axis on either side of the center line. The receiver antennas are configured to detect a signal emitted by the transmitter. The system further includes a phase detector to triangulate phase change and calculate object displacement. |
| US09285205B2 |
Turbomachine probe retention feature
An example turbomachine probe assembly includes a probe body extending along a probe axis from a first sensor end to an opposing second end. An eccentric retention feature is configured to engage the probe body into contact with wall having an aperture that receives the probe body. The eccentric retention feature limits movement of the probe body along the probe axis relative to the wall. |
| US09285204B2 |
Paste transfer unit, electronic component mounting device, and transferred film thickness measuring method
To measure a film thickness of a coating film (25a) of a flux (25) serving as a bonding paste formed on a transfer stage (24) of a paste transfer unit (7), the film thickness of the coating film (25a) in a transfer area (26) is measured through a light-transmitting member (51) by a light interference method and by an optical type film thickness measuring sensor (53) which is arranged below the transfer stage (24). Thus, it is possible to automatically and accurately measure the film thickness of the flux (25) in the transfer area (26) without requiring any complicated measurement work. |
| US09285197B2 |
Disposal of munitions
A method is described for safely opening the shell of a munition (10) having an inner chamber containing an explosive material. The method comprises the steps of machining a groove (20) into the shell along a parting line that encircles the outer surface of the munition and divides the shell into two parts. The groove (20) is of sufficient depth to weaken the shell but not to penetrate into the inner chamber of the munition. After machining the groove (20), the shell is cracked open by prising the two parts of the shell apart by inserting a suitable implement into the groove. |
| US09285192B2 |
Ballistic strike plate and assembly
A ballistic strike plate assembly comprises a first plate formed from aluminum alloy and having a first surface and a second surface. A titanium plate is has a first surface and a second surface. A sheet of ballistic gap foam is adhered to the first surface of the first plate and the first surface of the titanium plate. A multilayer ballistic fabric plate is adhered to the second surface of the titanium plate. A first sheet of ballistic wrap is disposed over the multilayer ballistic fabric plate, and has edges extending beyond edges of the multilayer ballistic fabric plate that are folded over the edges of the multilayer ballistic fabric plate. A second smaller sheet of ballistic wrap is adhered to the portion of the second surface of the first plate not covered by the folded over edges of the first sheet of ballistic wrap. |
| US09285190B1 |
Correlation/estimation reporting engagement system and method
A system and method for performing correlation processing for identifying an object of interest in a cloud of remote objects of different types comprises receiving RF and IR measurement data including rotational, translational bias and noise errors and determining and removing biases by minimizing a weighted distance metric. Correlation pairing metrics are then determined according to a maximum likelihood criteria. This method produces a correlation solution that minimizes the effects of biases and random noise while accounting for the statistical properties of the parameters being estimated. |
| US09285188B1 |
Adjustable sighting device for archery
A selective sight assembly for a sighting device associated with an archery bow or similar devices, has a frame portion defining a sight window and a sight portion connectable to the frame portion. The sight portion includes a sight pin connectable to the frame portion and a light conduit connected to the sight pin for movement therewith. The light conduit has a first light coupling end and a second light transmitting end that defines a sight point for view by a user. A plurality of light collectors are provided, with each light collector having a second light coupling end for selective optical coupling with the first light coupling end. Movement between the light conduit and the light collectors causes optical coupling between the first light coupling end and one of the second light coupling ends. The frame portion is rotatable about three mutually perpendicular axes to enable tuning of the selective sight assembly for a particular archery bow configuration. |
| US09285183B2 |
Bow loop retainer
An archery release includes a gate pivotally connected with the release and movable between open and closed positions. When in the open position, the gate receives a bowstring, and when in the closed position, the gate retains the release on the bowstring so that the archer does not need to hold on to the release at all times. The release may be operated when the gate is in either the open or closed positions. |
| US09285182B2 |
Connectable two piece bowstring engaging mechanism for crossbow
A manually assisted bowstring drawing mechanism may be used with a crossbow. The drawing mechanism may include a pair of handles attached to opposite ends of a rope and an engaging mechanism. The engaging mechanism may have two pieces that may receive the rope and may be selectively separated and connected together. When separated, the pieces may be extended up opposite sides of the crossbow from a trigger mechanism to a bowstring. The pieces may then be connected together and engaged to the bowstring. Next, the handles may be pulled by a user to move the bowstring from an uncocked position to a cocked position. |
| US09285179B2 |
Cable guard for compound bow
A cable guard for a compound bow deflects cables of the compound bow away from the path of an arrow and away from a plane in which a string of the compound bow travels to prevent interference between the cables and the arrow and string. The compound bow includes a riser and spaced apart limbs extending from the riser. The cables and the string extends between the limbs. The cable guard comprises a frame for attachment to the compound bow. A first bearing is supported by the frame and extends along an axis. A second bearing and a third bearing each extend along a respective axis transverse to the axis of the first bearing. The second bearing and the third bearing each present a bearing surface with the bearing surface of the second bearing spaced from and facing the bearing surface of the third bearing for receiving the cable therebetween. |
| US09285171B2 |
Heat exchange system and vehicle refrigeration cycle system
A unified heat exchanger includes a first heat exchanging arrangement and a second heat exchanging arrangement. The first heat exchanging arrangement is adapted to exchange heat between high pressure refrigerant and conditioning air. The second heat exchanging arrangement is adapted to exchange heat between low pressure refrigerant and the conditioning air. The first heat exchanging arrangement and the second heat exchanging arrangement are integrated together and are arranged to enable heat exchange of the conditioning air with both of the high pressure refrigerant and the low pressure refrigerant. |
| US09285167B2 |
Clothes dryer and control method thereof
A clothes dryer capable of providing a dry course suitable for functional clothes, and a control method thereof, the control method including selecting functional clothes as a substance accommodated in a dry tub to be dried; performing a first dry process to dry the functional clothes at a first dry temperature; and performing a second dry process to dry the functional clothes at a second dry temperature higher than the first dry temperature. |
| US09285165B2 |
Method for controlling dryer
A method for controlling a dryer includes putting a brush driving unit into operation, after putting the brush driving unit into operation, gathering information related to the operation of the brush driving unit, and controlling operation of the dryer based on the gathered information related to the operation of the brush driving unit. The brush driving unit being is configured to drive a brush that separates foreign matter from a filter portion of a filter assembly positioned to contact air that has exited from a drum of the dryer. |
| US09285163B2 |
Process and apparatus for cooling and compressing a wet gas rich in carbon dioxide
In a cooling and compressing process, a wet feed gas (1) that is rich in carbon dioxide is scrubbed with water and with an antifreeze agent in a column (3) in order to produce a flow of gas that is rich in carbon dioxide, water-depleted and cooled, the flow of gas rich in carbon dioxide is compressed in a compressor (20) and a liquid rich in carbon dioxide (18) is vaporized in order to cool the water and antifreeze agent before sending them to the scrubbing operation, it being possible for the liquid to originate from an external source. |
| US09285158B2 |
Trailer refrigerating apparatus
In an attachment portion where a side edge portion of an opening of a trailer and a casing are connected together, a vertically-extending groove is formed in one of the trailer or the casing and a vertically-extending raised portion is formed in the other one of the trailer or the casing so as to be fitted into the groove. |
| US09285157B2 |
Cold appliance
A cold appliance, such as a household refrigerator or freezer, comprising a cabinet (101) and a cooling module (102) and a cabinet panel for a household cold appliance. The cabinet comprises cabinet panels including two opposite side wall panels (1), a rear wall panel (4), and a top part (2), which are connected essentially perpendicular to each other by means of mechanical and/or glue joints. Each cabinet panel comprises an inner sheet (9), an outer sheet (8) and an intermediary layer (17) of a foamed insulating material, wherein each cabinet panel has an inner surface, an outer surface, and four edge surfaces. The cooling module comprises a cold section (34) and a warm section (35), which is separated from the cold section by an insulating wall (105), an evaporator (33) arranged in the cold section, and a compressor (36) and a condenser (31, 32) arranged in the warm section, the cooling module comprises a bottom part (31) comprising support means, such as wheels and/or feet, the bottom edge surface of the side wall panels is attached to the bottom part (121). |
| US09285156B2 |
Cooling device
A refrigeration appliance includes a body having an interior compartment, a door, and a mechanism for opening and/or closing the door that is adapted to act on the door. The interior compartment is adapted to receive products to be cooled. The door is movably attached to the body and adapted to close the interior compartment. The mechanism for opening and/or closing the door is an integral module and is disposed in a corresponding pocket of the refrigeration appliance. |
| US09285152B2 |
Method for freeze protection
A method for freeze protection for a temperature control system, and a temperature control system for controlling the temperature of a temperature-controlled space at a set point temperature. The method includes monitoring a discharge air temperature, monitoring a return air temperature, setting a target temperature to equal the set point temperature, controlling the return air temperature at the target temperature, and adjusting the target temperature based on the return air temperature when the discharge air temperature drops to one of at or below freezing. |
| US09285148B2 |
Air conditioner using oil return operation based on outdoor air temperature
In an air conditioner provided with an oil-return-operation control portion that performs an oil-return operation, when oil-return conditions are satisfied, by controlling the rotational speed of a compressor, the degree of opening of an expansion valve, etc., with a predetermined refrigerant cycle and provided with high-outdoor-air-temperature oil-return operation means for performing a forced oil-return operation via the oil-return-operation control portion when an outdoor temperature increases and a state in which a detection value of an outdoor air temperature sensor is higher than a set value continues for a predetermined period of time, the oil-return operation is prohibited for a certain period of time after performing the forced oil-return operation via the high-outdoor-air-temperature oil-return operation means. |
| US09285147B1 |
Relocatable refrigeration system with pendulum within separator and accumulator chambers
A refrigeration system has a refrigeration control assembly and separate compressor-driver, condenser and evaporator assemblies connected by refrigerant lines to the refrigeration control assembly. The assemblies are relocatable with respect to each other in parallely, longitudinally or angularly related portions. The refrigeration control assembly has multiple ports with quick disconnect sealing joints to the refrigerant lines. The refrigeration control assembly is equipped to connect supplemental compressor, condenser and evaporator assemblies and independent condenser and evaporator units. The refrigerant control valves with the possible exception of expansion and pressure control valves at an evaporator are in the refrigerant control assembly, which also holds the liquid filter, the liquid accumulator, the suction accumulator and the oil separator. The liquid accumulator, suction accumulator and oil separator have cylindrical chambers and rotatable pendulums with passageways and openings to permit flow of the desired fluids at any orientation. |
| US09285146B2 |
Ejector
An ejector (200; 300; 320; 340; 400; 430; 460; 480) has a primary inlet (40), a secondary inlet (42), and an outlet (44). A primary flowpath extends from the primary inlet (40) to the outlet (44) and a secondary flowpath extends from the secondary inlet (42) to the outlet (44), merging with the primary flowpath. A motive nozzle (100) surrounds the primary flowpath upstream of a junction with the secondary flowpath. The motive nozzle (100) has a throat (106) and an exit (110). The ejector (200; 300; 320; 340; 400; 430; 460; 480) further has a means (204, 210; 304; 322; 342; 402; 432; 462; 482) for varying an effective area of the exit (110) or simultaneously varying the effective area of the exit (110) and an effective area of the throat (106). |
| US09285144B2 |
Economizer for an intermittent absorption refrigeration system
An economizer for a solar powered intermittent absorption refrigeration system improves the coefficient of performance of the refrigeration system. The economizer recovers waste energy rejected by an absorber during an absorption process, stores the waste energy, and supplies the waste energy to a generator during a generation process, thereby reducing the amount of energy input needed to operate the system. |
| US09285141B2 |
Method and equipment for pulsed charge cooling of a component of a tokomak
The invention relates to a method and device for pulsed charge cooling of a component of a Tokamak. The method uses a refrigeration device that subjects a working fluid such as helium to a work cycle including: compression, cooling, and decompression, as well as heat exchange with the member and heating. The refrigeration power produced by the refrigeration device is increased to a relatively high level when the Tokamak is in a plasma generation phase and is decreased to a relatively low level when the Tokamak is no longer in a plasma generation phase. The increase in refrigeration power produced by the refrigeration device is automatically triggered in response to a signal produced during a step for starting plasma in the Tokamak. |
| US09285140B2 |
Ground loop bypass for ground source heating or cooling
A ground source heat transfer system circulates transfer fluid between heat exchange units and a ground loop. The system includes a bypass which allows the transfer fluid to continue to circulate past the exchange units while bypassing the ground loop. Monitoring the conditions of the system with temperature sensors allows the system to selectively activate the bypass whenever diverting fluid away from the ground loop can save heat or energy. |
| US09285132B2 |
Portable saw enclosure featuring moisture and debris laden air extraction plus electrical control panel
A saw enclosure having a waterproof metal base pan, with integral receiver brackets for supporting enclosure frame work, and a built in shop-vac attachment port for using a vacuum to produce negative air pressure within enclosure; removing dust, moisture and particulate laden air. The saw enclosure framework assembly includes an electric control panel comprising of a switch controlled, duplex, GFCI outlet, for simultaneously energizing the saw and vacuum, and a continuously powered duplex outlet for powering a jig saw, grinder, drill, light, or any other electrical item. The enclosure, a seamed and fitted cover of flexible fabric or plastic, includes weights or magnets to ensure a tight fit at the base pan. All components disassemble quickly, and fit within base pan, which has a detachable cover for ease of transport. |
| US09285122B2 |
Fuel injector
A fuel injector comprising: a prefilmer; a plurality of discrete fuel sources each arranged to supply fuel to a surface of the prefilmer; wherein the prefilmer comprises circumferential dispersion structure which, in use, spreads the fuel in a circumferential direction as it passes from an impingement point on the surface of the prefilmer to a downstream edge of the prefilmer. |
| US09285118B2 |
Propane vaporizer for fuel powered devices
The present invention is a device that supplies the latent heat for vaporization of L.P. gases. The device for a supply of fuel vapor to a fuel powered device, comprising of a supply tank; a liquid bath having a temperature control system; a LPG flow line immersed inside the liquid bath; a heating system to heat the LPG; and a vaporizer control system comprising a temperature sensor to measure the temperature of the liquid bath, the temperature sensor is connected to a solenoid valve in the vapor supply line, and wherein said temperature sensor shutting off the solenoid valve when the bath temperature drops below a predetermined temperature. |
| US09285112B2 |
Method for energy storage to utilize intermittent renewable energy and low-value electricity for CO2 capture and utilization
A power plant includes a boiler, a steam turbine, a generator driven by that steam turbine, a condenser, a post combustion processing system and an energy storage system including at least one electrochemical cell to store excess electrical energy generated by the generator during period valley demand and release thermal energy for power plant operations at other times. |
| US09285108B2 |
Expanded heat sink for electronic displays
A system for cooling various components of an electronic display. One or more heat-generating components are preferably placed in thermal communication with a plate and ribs. One or more fans are placed to draw cooling air along the ribs to remove the heat removed from the component. Some embodiments may place the electronic image assembly in thermal communication with the ribs to remove heat from the electronic image assembly. Exemplary embodiments have power modules and the electronic image assembly in thermal communication with the ribs. Conductive thermal communication is established between the ribs and the components in the exemplary embodiments. |
| US09285106B2 |
Rotary optically controlled LED night lamp
A rotary optically controlled LED night lamp includes: a body; and a rotary plug holder connected to the body; wherein the body has an upper portion and a lower portion, the lower portion has a containing space, an optically controlled switch is provided inside the containing space; a round slot is provided on the lower portion, location flanges are provided on the round slot; wherein the rotary plug holder includes: a holder body; and a rotary connector connected to the holder body; wherein location slots engaged with the location flanges are provided on the holder body. An LED is connected to the optically controlled switch in such a manner that the LED is controlled optically; the location flanges are engaged with the location slots in such a manner that the night lamp can rotate for 360° freely for solving a illuminating angle locating problem. |
| US09285104B2 |
Light bulb shaped lamp and lighting apparatus
A light bulb shaped lamp according to the present invention includes: a hollow globe; an LED module including a base platform and an LED chip mounted on the base platform, the LED module being provided in the globe; a lead wire for supplying power to the LED module; and a stem extending toward the interior of the globe, in which the base platform is directly fixed to the stem. |
| US09285103B2 |
Light engines for lighting devices
A light engine housing comprising a mixing chamber element, a driver chamber element and/or a connection element, one or more of which is removable. A light engine comprising (1) a light engine housing and (2) a mixing chamber module and/or a driver module removably attached to and/or positioned in the light engine housing. Also, a light engine comprising (1) a light engine housing and a mixing chamber module and/or a driver module. Also, a solid state light engine comprising a light engine housing comprising at least a first connection element. |
| US09285102B2 |
Radiation-emitting component
A radiation-emitting component with a semiconductor body is intended for emitting electromagnetic radiation from its front side. The component also includes a reflective optical element. This optical element is intended to direct some of the radiation emitted by the semiconductor body, which impinges directly on the reflective optical element, into an outer region of a target zone. A refractive optical element is intended to focus the reflected fraction of the radiation into the outer region of the target zone and to focus the remaining fraction of the radiation into an inner region of the target zone. |
| US09285090B2 |
Vehicle headlight assembly
A head light assembly includes a body having a base and a connection portion respectively connected to two ends thereof. A circuit board is connected to the base and has at least two Light Emitting Diodes (LEDs). A lens is connected to the base and has a room in which the circuit board is located. The lens has a high beam area and a low beam area. The at least two Light Emitting Diodes (LEDs) are respectively located corresponding to the high beam area and the low beam area. A heat removing member is connected to the connection portion and has multiple fins. |
| US09285089B2 |
Automatic electrical connection assembly for light modules
An illumination apparatus includes a solid state light emitting source and a first radiator thermally coupled to the solid state light emitting source, wherein the radiator is configured to be connectable to a second apparatus. The illumination apparatus further includes a one or more electrical conductors coupled to the radiator, wherein the electrical conductors are adapted to couple electrically to the solid state light emitting source. |
| US09285084B2 |
Diffusers for LED-based lights
An LED-based light assembly includes a plurality of LEDs and an elongate housing for the LEDs. The housing has an outer surface at least partially defined by a first lens. The assembly also includes a second lens. The second lens is removably attachable to the outer surface of the housing such that at least a portion of the second lens overlays the first lens in a spaced relationship. The assembly further includes at least one connector arranged at an end of the housing that configured for engagement with a socket of a fluorescent light fixture. |
| US09285080B2 |
Composition and method for reducing hydrocarbon friction and drag in pipeline flow
A method and composition for reducing drag, reducing friction, reducing viscosity, and/or improving flow of viscous hydrocarbons including adding an effective amount of a drag-reducing composition containing a blend of turpentine liquids to a viscous hydrocarbon storage or pipeline operation and forming a drag-reducing mixture of viscous hydrocarbons and the blend of turpentine liquids. |
| US09285079B2 |
Gas supply system
A gas supply system is provided. The system includes a plurality of component gas supply pipes, a plurality of flow rate control mechanisms for controlling flow rates of the component gases flowing in the component gas supply pipes, and a material gas supply pipe connected with downstream ends of the component gas supply pipes, and connected with one of the gas supply ports at a downstream. The flow rate control mechanism includes flow rate control valves, individual pressure sensors, and fluid resistance elements provided to the component gas supply pipes in this order from upstream, respectively, a common pressure sensor, and controllers for calculating the flow rates of the gases flowing in the component gas supply and controlling the flow rate control valves of the corresponding component gas supply pipes so that the calculated component gas flow rate approaches a predetermined gas flow rate, respectively. |
| US09285075B2 |
Vertical fore grip with bipod
Devices, systems and methods of using an ergonomic fore grip/gun handle with a concealable and collapsible bipod. One version can have a tubular recess consisting of a first cylindrical cutout housing the bipod legs when concealed and a sliding piston that deploys the legs and a second cylindrical cutout housing a release mechanism and a void space for other accessories. The release mechanism has a compression spring positioned between the piston assembly and the bottom of the first cylindrical cutout and the compression spring. The legs are connected to the bottom of the piston assembly via a hinge and spring that when released from confinement within the fore grip, causes the legs to expand outward until fully deployed. Telescoping legs allow adjustment of leg length for use on uneven terrain. The grip portion has an outer surface with a flat surface on sides of the grip to provide a more stable grip, assist in orienting the mounted weapon and support pressure pads for lights. |
| US09285073B2 |
Non-rotating flexure bearings for cryocoolers and other devices
A system includes a device, a support structure, and a flexure bearing configured to connect the device to the support structure. The flexure bearing includes an outer hub and an inner hub, where the hubs are configured to be secured to the support structure and to the device. The flexure bearing also includes multiple sets of flexure arms connecting the outer and inner hubs. Each set of flexure arms includes symmetric flexure arms. The flexure bearing could include three sets of flexure arms positioned radially around a central axis of the flexure bearing and having a spacing of about 120°. Each flexure arm can follow a substantially curved path between the outer hub and the inner hub. The symmetric flexure arms in each set can be configured such that twisting of one flexure arm in one set is substantially counteracted by twisting of another flexure arm in that set. |
| US09285071B1 |
Support assembly for condenser
A system for supporting a condenser above a ground surface generally includes a beam that elevates the condenser above the ground surface, the beam incorporating or coupled to a wall sleeve on one end and a frame on the other end and adapted to allow a line set from the condenser to pass through at least a portion of an interior channel or passageway of the beam into the wall sleeve. In use, the beam is joined to a sleeve and placed in a hole in the building structure, such as a foundation wall, and secured to resist rotational force. The beam is joined to a frame, the condenser is placed on the frame, and the line set is run through the beam and sleeve. Thereby, the condenser becomes elevated above the ground on the condenser supporting system. The beam may be cantilevered. |
| US09285068B2 |
Retention system and method for a wing
A retention system includes a base supporting a wing spar and a post extending through the base from a first side of the base to a second side of the base. The post inserts through an aperture in the spar. A stop is selectively securable to the post over the second side of the base. A locking member engages the post on the first side of the base. The locking member is configured to selectively move the post from an unlocked position to a locked position in which the post is withdrawn toward the first side relative to the unlocked position. A biasing member encircles the post and is positioned between the stop and the second side. When the locking member is in a closed position the biasing member expands to engage the aperture and resist movement of the wing spar. A plurality of cradles may support the wing. |
| US09285066B2 |
Positive pressure pipe coupling
A vent pipe and system formed from such vent pipes is provided. The vent pipe includes an inner casing, an outer casing surrounding the inner casing, and an insulation material between the inner and outer casings. The vent pipe also includes, a male end portion, a female and portion for receiving a male end portion end of another vent pipe, the female end portion being opposite the male end portion. The vent pipe further includes a first flange extending from the male end portion, and a second flange extending from the female end portion for mating with the first external extending from the male portion of another vent pipe. |
| US09285063B2 |
Connection fitting for connecting thermoplastic pipes
A joint fitting for thermoplastic pipes. The fitting member has a receptor and an insert. The receptor fits snugly over the thermoplastic pipe, and the end of the pipe abuts against the fitting member. These respective contact surfaces are fused together by thermal welding, thus forming a socket seal and an abutting seal to strengthen the joint and to protect any glass fiber reinforcing layer of the pipe. One embodiment of the fitting also comprises a glass fiber reinforcing member that provides structural strength to the fitting member. In another embodiment, the fitting comprises an inner rim that fits inside the end of the thermoplastic pipe, thereby forming a double socket, abutted seal between the fitting and the pipe. Other embodiments comprise a valve for releasing gas and molten thermoplastic material during the thermal welding process. |
| US09285059B2 |
Control valve
A control valve for controlling liquid flow in a heating and/or cooling installation. The control valve includes differential pressure regulating facilities and flow area regulating facilities. The control valve is provided with means for manually presetting a maximum flow through area and with means for automatically adjusting the flow through area within the preset maximum. |
| US09285053B2 |
Gas valve and assembly method for a gas valve
A gas valve having a valve body that at least partially defines a gas enclosure. The valve body has an intake, an outlet and a hole for communicating the outlet with the intake. A valve seat within the gas enclosure cooperates with the hole to permit or to prevent the passage of gas through the hole. An electrically activated actuator, when activated, is configured to move or keep the valve seat in the open position. The gas valve includes connection means that connect the actuator to the outside of the gas valve, the connection means being disposed at least in part on a metal core printed circuit board. The printed circuit board is soldered to a metal structure located within the gas enclosure to at least partially seal the gas enclosure, the metal structure supporting, at least in part, the electrical actuator. |
| US09285047B2 |
Regulator valve
A regulator valve contain: a housing, a left end cap, a right end cap, and a valve core assembly. The housing includes a left cavity, a right cavity, a valve hole, a left opening, and a right opening. The right cavity has an inlet, the valve hole has an outlet, and between the right cavity and the valve hole is defined a seat portion, the seat portion has an inwardly conical fence, a diameter of which decreases from the right cavity to the valve hole. The left end cap is connected with and closes the left opening. The right end cap is coupled with and closes the right opening. The valve core assembly is inserted through the valve hole and includes a piston portion and a closing portion. |
| US09285045B2 |
Aircraft fuel tank vent protector
An aircraft fuel tank vent (100, 200, 300) having a first interface (102, 202, 302) for fluid communication with an aircraft fuel tank interior, and a second interface (104, 204, 304) for fluid communication with an aircraft fuel tank exterior, the vent comprising: a first flow path (118, 218, 326) between the first interface and the second interface, the fuel tank vent having a baffle (126, 226, 317) positioned in the first flow path, and, a second flow path (124, 224, 326) between the first interface and the second interface, the fuel tank vent having a overpressure device (120, 220, 322) positioned in the second flow path, wherein the first and second flow paths are common along at least a part of their length such that they are coincident at the second interface. |
| US09285044B2 |
Relievable check valve for medical lines
This invention concerns relievable normally closed check valves for use in conjunction with fluid delivery systems for medical patients, as well as methods for making and using valves. In the medical context, such valves function at very low fluid pressures, and include a multi-part valve body made from upper and lower housings capable of movement relative to each other that, when operably connected, dispose between them a compliant or deformable, resilient valve element normally biased in the closed position against a valve seat present on the inner surface of the upper housing. The upper housing also includes a lower housing seat. The inside surface of the lower housing contains or supports a structure that positions the valve element to engage the valve seat in the absence of fluid pressure above the valve's pre-determined cracking pressure. The valve's flow prevention function may be relieved in the absence of sufficiently pressurized fluid by causing the valve element to disengage from the valve seat, for example, by adjusting the valve body to distance the valve element from the valve seat. |
| US09285041B2 |
Flow control valve and method of use
A multistage, pilot-operated pressure regulator for pressure adjustment and/or back pressure relief and/or differential pressure or flow control applications comprises a diaphragm and a plurality of plates, including a throttle plate and at least one flow control plate. In at least one embodiment, the throttle plate includes a sloped upper surface for contacting the diaphragm, and a plurality of apertures residing within a plurality of concentric rows. In addition, in at least one embodiment, at least one flow control plate is positioned downstream of the throttle plate, the at least one flow control plate including a plurality of apertures residing within a plurality of concentric rows. A method of controlling the flow of fluid in a conduit is also provided. |
| US09285039B2 |
Sleeve seal assembly and rotary valve having sleeve seal assembly
A fluid flow control device includes a valve body, a bonnet, a control assembly, an internal recess, and a seal assembly. The valve body defines an inlet portion, an outlet portion, a bonnet opening, and a fluid flow path extending between the inlet portion and the outlet portion. The bonnet is disposed in the bonnet opening. The control assembly is at least partly supported by the bonnet, and includes a ball element disposed within the valve body and rotatable between an open position and a closed position. The internal recess is defined by the valve body downstream from the inlet portion and adjacent the bonnet opening. The seal assembly is disposed within the internal recess and includes a movable sleeve seal, a retaining device, a biasing element, and one or more sealing elements for preventing leakage between the sleeve seal and the retaining device and/or the valve body. |
| US09285036B2 |
High pressure and temperature valve
The present disclosure is directed to systems and methods which provide a seal-less high temperature and pressure valve for use in many applications. |
| US09285035B2 |
Valve for a vapour compression system
A valve comprising an inlet opening adapted to receive fluid medium and at least two outlet openings, each being fluidly connected to a flow path being arranged fluidly in parallel, is disclosed. The valve comprises a first valve part (1) and a second valve part (3). The first valve part (1) has at least two flow passages (2) formed therein, each flow passage (2) being fluidly connected to one of the outlet openings. The second valve part (3) has at least one primary flow passage (4) and at least one secondary flow passage (5, 6, 7) formed therein, the primary flow passage(s) (4) and the secondary flow passage(s) (5, 6, 7) being fluidly connected to the inlet opening. The first valve part (1) and the second valve part (3) are movable relative to each other in such a manner that the mutual position of the first valve part (1) and the second valve part (3) determines a fluid flow between the inlet opening and each of the outlet openings, via the flow passages (2, 4, 5, 6, 7) of the first valve part (1) and the second valve part (3). |
| US09285033B2 |
Domed diaphragm / insert plate for a pressure vessel access closure
A pressure vessel closure for an access opening that has a sealing surface surrounding the access opening and one of either a diaphragm or insert that spans the access opening with a peripheral flange that rests on the sealing surface. The insert or diaphragm has a continuously rounded portion that extends into the access opening and a cover extends over the insert or diaphragm. A gasket is interposed between the flange of the insert and the sealing surface or a fillet weld attaches the flange of the diaphragm to the sealing surface. A locking device secures the cover to a wall of the pressure vessel and urges the flange against the sealing surface. |
| US09285024B2 |
Torque transmission device
A torque transmission device comprising a torque converter disposed in a drive train of a motor vehicle, in particular a hydrodynamic torque converter or a fluid clutch, wherein the converter or the fluid clutch comprises a turbine shell and a pump shell which can be coupled through a pump clutch and at least one pump damper with a converter cover, and comprising at least one converter damper and at least one converter lock up clutch. |
| US09285023B2 |
Hydraulic drive of operating machine
To rapidly stop an upperstructure even though relief pressure is lowered due to an abnormality in a hydraulic device included in a swing motor driving circuit while intending to stop the upperstructure when a predetermined delay time has passed since a swing operation tool is brought back to a neutral position, provided are: a first choke for controlling a parking brake to apply a braking force to a swing motor when a predetermined delay time has passed since the tool is brought back to a neutral position in a state where the tool is connected to a pilot pump; and an on-off valve and a second choke for controlling the parking brake to apply a braking force to the motor when a delay time shorter than the predetermined delay time has passed since the tool is brought back to the neutral position and disconnected from the pilot pump. |
| US09285022B2 |
Gear box assembly for a twin rotor combine
A gear box assembly for a twin rotor combine is provided. The gear box assembly includes a two speed gear box having a casing, an input shaft, an output shaft, and a two speed gear assembly housed within the casing and operatively connected between the input shaft and the output shaft. The gear box assembly also includes a splitter gear box operatively connected to the output shaft. The splitter gear box includes a housing, and a splitter gear assembly housed within the housing and configured to split a torque provided by the output shaft between a first output shaft and a second output shaft extending from the housing in a direction opposite a direction the output shaft extends from the two speed gear box. The two speed gear box is pivotable relative to the splitter gear box housing. |
| US09285021B2 |
Linear module with a support device
A linear module with a support device includes a base; two pivot seats fixed on the base; a screw disposed between the two pivot seats; a rail fixed to the base; a movable platform and two support members sleeved onto the screw and movable along the rail; a wheel rotatably disposed on the platform; a connecting member; and a cover. The support members are located at two ends of the platform, and the wheel includes a first wheel portion and a second wheel portion smaller in diameter than the first wheel portion. The connecting member includes two connecting ends fixed to the support members and a connecting bottom surface for pressing against the second wheel portion. The cover includes two cover ends fixed to the two pivot seats, and a cover bottom surface pressing against the first wheel portion. |
| US09285020B2 |
Open belt clutch
The present application for patent provides a belt clutch having a drum with a drum-side friction surface, an open ended belt with a belt-side friction surface, and an externally controlled actuator on one end of the belt. The belt is configured to be coupled to a source of torque on the other end of the belt. The belt-side and drum-side friction surfaces engage frictionally when in use, such that the effective coefficient of friction between the drum-side friction surface and the belt-side friction surface varies across the width or length of the belt. |
| US09285015B2 |
Continuously variable transmission and a working machine including a continuously variable transmission
A continuously variable transmission includes a variator unit having a variator input shaft and a variator output shaft, and a first, a second, a third and a fourth planetary gear set, wherein each of the first and second planetary gear sets has a first member operatively connected to a common transmission input shaft, which transmission input shaft is common to the first and second gear sets, and a second member operatively connected to an output shaft, which output shaft is common to the first and second gear sets. Each of the first and second planetary gear sets further includes a third member, and the third planetary gear set has a first, a second and a third member. |
| US09285011B2 |
High velocity compression damping valve
A shock absorber includes a pressure sensitive valve assembly that controls fluid flow through the pressure sensitive valve assembly based upon the velocity of the piston assembly in the shock absorber. The pressure sensitive valve assembly restricts fluid flow as the velocity of the piston in a compression stroke increases to increase the damping loads provided by the shock absorber. A secondary valve assembly controls fluid flow through the pressure sensitive valve assembly when the pressure sensitive valve assembly is in a closed position. |
| US09285009B2 |
Hydraulic suspension damper and method of assembling thereof
A hydraulic damper includes at least one valve assembly (9, 19) provided with rebound (11, 21) and compression (12, 22) valves and at least one resilient deflective disk covering flow channels (13, 23) of the valve assembly and preloaded by a spring (16, 26). The hydraulic damper includes means for clamping together the components of the at least one valve assembly and for preloading the spring. In order to increase the repeatability coefficient among dampers of the same production batch and render it independent on the geometrical tolerances of the valve assembly components, the means have a form of an adjustable nut assembly (17a, 27a) comprising a clamp nut (171, 271) and a shoulder sleeve (172, 272) fixed on the perimeter of the clamp nut. The clamp nut clamps together the components of the valve assembly and the shoulder sleeve preloads the spring with a predetermined force. method of assembling such a damper. |
| US09285006B2 |
Shock absorber
A shock absorber including a piston inserted into a cylinder (2) having a hydraulic oil sealed therein. An outer tube (3) is provided around the outer periphery of the cylinder to form a reservoir (4) therebetween. A bottomed circular cylindrical casing (25) is joined to a side surface portion of the outer tube, and a damping force control valve (27) is housed in the casing. The bottomed circular cylindrical casing has a bottom (25A) formed with a joint surface (25B) curved along the outer peripheral surface of the outer tube and a flat inner surface (25C). The casing is integrally formed by forging. |
| US09285005B2 |
Negative spring compensation for elastomeric bearing torque
Elastomeric bearings exhibit a reactive positive spring effect, i.e., they produce an opposing torque or force when angular displacement or translation is applied upon them, due to shear stress developed within their elastomer parts. The present invention incorporates a device that exhibits an increasingly strong torque or force in the same direction as the displacement, i.e., a negative spring, under similar conditions of movement. When properly calibrated, the subject type of device can be used in paralleled motion with the ordinary reactive elastomeric bearing to produce a combined effect in which at least a part of the torque or force of the elastomeric bearing is changed or minimized over a range of movement. |
| US09285003B2 |
Disc brake caliper with piston roll-back device
Disc brake calipers with a piston roll-back device capable of allowing accurate and repeatable roll-back of pistons and which are easy to construct and assemble are provided. |
| US09284998B2 |
Freewheel hub comprising a magneto-elastic sensor and bicycle, pedelec, fast pedelec or e-bike comprising the freewheel hub
A freewheel hub and a bicycle, pedelec, fast pedelec or e-bike comprising this freewheel hub is provided. The freewheel hub includes a rotating hub shell for carrying a free running wheel. Torque is coupled to the rotating hub shell via a torque transmitting member. At least one magneto-elastically active region is directly or indirectly attached to or forms a part of the torque transmitting member in such a manner that the applied torque is transmitted to the active region including at least one magnetically polarized region. The magnetic polarization becomes increasingly helically shaped as the applied torque increases. A magneto-elastic sensor including at least one magnetic field sensor is arranged proximate to the at least one magneto-elastically active region for outputting a signal corresponding to a torque-induced magnetic flux emanating from the magnetically polarized region. |
| US09284997B2 |
One-way clutch and driving device having the same
A one-way clutch includes a first rotation member, a second rotation member, a support shaft, and a transmission member. The support shaft is disposed in a protruding manner from a first lateral surface portion of the first rotation member toward an interior space in the axial direction of a rotational shaft. The transmission member is supported by the support shaft, and can move in a sliding manner in the axial direction between a first position at which a rotational driving force in a first direction inputted to the first rotation member is transmitted to the second rotation member, and a second position at which a rotational driving force in the second direction inputted to the first rotation member is restricted from being transmitted to the second rotation member. |
| US09284994B2 |
Clutch mechanism and decoupler device with same
A clutched device that includes a pulley, a shaft member, a first one-way clutch having a first wrap spring, and an actuator having an electromagnetic coil and an armature. The first one-way clutch rotationally couples the pulley and the shaft member when the actuator is actuated and rotary power is transmitted from a first one of the pulley and the shaft member to the other one of the pulley and the shaft member in a first rotational direction. A frictional force is applied to the armature when the actuator is activated. The frictional force is configured to resist rotation of the armature to cause the first wrap spring to radially expand into driving engagement with a clutch surface that is coupled to the pulley for common rotation. |
| US09284986B2 |
Bearing arrangement in an actuator of a forest machine
A bearing arrangement in an actuator of a forest machine comprising a frame of the actuator, which frame defines a first opening. The bearing arrangement also comprises a bushing, at least part of the bushing arranged in the first opening, the bushing defining a second opening, at least part of an axle and/or a bearing being arranged in the second opening, the axle or bearing being arranged stationary or movable in relation to the bushing, and the bushing being removable from the frame of the actuator. Further, a method for maintaining an actuator of a forest machine, the actuator comprising a bearing arrangement of the described type. In the method, a second, corresponding bushing is provided, which is fitted for said first opening; said bushing is removed from the frame of the actuator, wherein said first opening is exposed; and said second bushing is installed in said first opening. |
| US09284984B2 |
Rolling element bearing cage section, rolling-element bearing cage, and rolling-element bearing
A rolling-element bearing cage section for a rolling-element bearing is configured to guide at least one rolling element between a first and a second rolling-element bearing ring of the rolling-element bearing. The rolling-element bearing cage section is configured to partially or completely receive the at least one rolling element prior to installation in the rolling-element bearing. The rolling-element bearing cage section includes a porous material adapted to absorb a lubricant and release the lubricant as a result of a centrifugal force acting on the lubricant during rotation of the rolling-element bearing cage section, thus allowing a liquid lubricant to be used in a rolling-element bearing without the need for complex seals. |
| US09284977B2 |
Front bearing section of housing of combustion engine starter having output pinion
The front bearing (110) of a heat engine starter having an output pinion starter drive (120) comprises, in the front, a transverse wall (111) having an opening (112), for passing a body (122) of the starter drive (120) there through, and a cavity (200) for mounting a sealing joint (240). The cavity is set up on the inner periphery of the rear surface (400) of the front bearing. The rear surface is configured so as to form a bearing abutment for the outer ring (231) of a rolling bearing (230) and moreover has at least one hollowed-out area (300) intended to be filled with grease so as to form a grease supply. The hollowed-out area is mostly set up outside the cavity. A heat engine starter having an output pinion is characterized in that it comprises one such front bearing. |
| US09284974B2 |
Clip
In a clip that copes with pitches of a plurality of types of screw grooves, force to support the engaged screw members is increased at low cost. The clip includes opposite elastic locking pieces. Each elastic locking piece extends from a first side to a second side opposite to the first side, in the direction of the axis of the screw member such that its leading end approaches the screw member within the insertion hole of a tubular body part. Each elastic locking piece is elastically deformable such that its leading end is separated from the screw member. Each locking piece has at its leading end a locking claw that engages with the screw groove of the screw member. The first side of the locking claw has a straight section extending straight, and the second side opposite to the first side has a helical section extending helically along the groove. |
| US09284972B1 |
Panel-insert assembly and method
A panel-insert assembly including a panel and an insert, wherein the panel includes a core and a face sheet positioned over the core, wherein the face sheet defines an opening therein, and wherein the insert is positioned below the face sheet and includes a thread member engaged with the panel, the thread member extending in a first circumferential direction about the vertical axis. |
| US09284970B2 |
Connector housings, use of, and method therefor
A connector assembly formed by attaching two stamped housing sections to form a connector housing having a housing groove with a groove bottom and two side walls. The connector housings with spring can be used as a mechanical connector and/or as an electrical connector for numerous applications and across numerous industries. The groove geometries can easily be altered using different stamping dies. |
| US09284967B2 |
Clip
In a clip that copes with pitches of a plurality of types of screw grooves, force to support the engaged screw members is increased at low cost. Each elastic locking piece extends from the first side to the second side opposite to the first side, in the direction of the axis of the screw member such that its leading end approaches the screw member within the insertion hole of a tubular body part. Each elastic locking piece is elastically deformable such that its leading end is separated from the screw member. Each locking piece has at its leading end a locking claw that engages with the screw groove of the screw member. A claw leading-edge of the locking claw has a straight section extending straight on one side in a circumferential direction around the axis, and a curved section extending curvedly along the circumferential direction on the other side. |
| US09284966B2 |
Hydraulic arrangement
A hydraulic arrangement (10) to increase a motor load is described. The hydraulic arrangement comprises a hydraulic consumer (28), a load pressure-controlled hydraulic pump (24), a hydraulic tank (26), and a hydraulic control circuit (30), connected with the hydraulic consumer (28), with which a volume flow conveyed by the hydraulic pump (24) can be changed, wherein the hydraulic control circuit (30) comprises an excess pressure valve (42) and an electronically controllable control valve (36). In order to ensure a prioritization of the hydraulic consumer with a simultaneous increase of the motor bad, a proposal is made that the hydraulic control circuit (30) comprise a load pressure-controlled pressure compensator (38) between the excess pressure valve (42) and the control valve (36). |
| US09284959B2 |
Propulsion turbine
A turbine creating fluid displacement or thrust having an outer frame superstructure comprised of opposed disk assemblies extending parallel, each joined concentrically to a central sun gear and central drive shaft housing, each spaced apart along a central axis defining an interior operating space to support a motor driven driveshaft joined to a rotatable interplanetary assembly that secures two or more orbiting evenly spaced planetary turbines by bearing means each having a pivoting wing/s which presents a maximum contact surface profile in drive maximally impinging on air or water and pivoting back to a position of least resistance in glide thereby creating current or thrust, each made to counter rotate, once around its axis as the interplanetary assembly rotates once around the propulsion turbine's central axis, each maintaining a transverse planetary turbine and wing orientation relative to the direction of created thrust or fluid displacement. |
| US09284958B2 |
Rotary compressor
A rotary compressor includes a cylinder with a cylinder chamber, a piston, a blade and a pair of bushes. The piston is movable-within the cylinder chamber. The blade is integrally formed with the cylinder or piston and penetrates a groove formed in the other to segment the cylinder chamber into high and low pressure chambers. The bushes are provided at the groove and sandwich the blade from both sides of the blade. At least one of the pair of bushes includes an oil supply passage formed from a blade-side sliding surface to a groove-side sliding surface, a blade-side oil reservoir formed on the blade-side sliding surface, and a groove-side oil reservoir on the groove-side sliding surface. Ends of the oil supply passage open to the blade-side and groove-side oil reservoirs. The groove-side oil reservoir being wider than the blade-side oil reservoir. |
| US09284957B2 |
Underwater conveying assembly with a pump and with a drive device
The invention relates to an underwater conveying assembly with a pump (2) and with a drive device (3), in which the drive device (3) is sealed off with respect to the surrounding water and with respect to a process medium, the pump (2) and the drive device (3) being combined into a module (4), and the pump (2) having at least one inlet port (21) and at least one outlet port (22), the module (4) being assigned a collecting element (5), which tapers preferably in the direction of the inlet port (21), at least one suction lance (7) being flow-connected to the inlet port (21). It is possible to change over to a punctiform inlet port which precedes the collecting element (5). |
| US09284956B2 |
Diaphragm pump with muffler-mounted sensor
Illustrative embodiments of diaphragm pumps including a muffler-mounted sensor are disclosed. In one illustrative embodiment, a diaphragm pump includes a shaft coupled to at least one diaphragm, an exhaust chamber configured to receive a motive fluid that has driven reciprocation of the at least one diaphragm and the shaft, a muffler disposed at least partially within the exhaust chamber, the muffler having a sensor mounting chamber defined therein, and a proximity sensor disposed in the sensor mounting chamber, a sensing end of the proximity sensor being flush with an end of the sensor mounting chamber nearest the shaft. |
| US09284954B2 |
Variable displacement swash plate type compressor
A variable displacement swash plate type compressor having high controllability and capable of exhibiting high mounting performance and securing sufficient compression capacity is provided. The compressor of the present invention comprises a first cylinder block and a second cylinder block, and an actuator. The actuator includes an actuator main body and a control pressure chamber. A first cylinder bore and a first storage chamber are formed in the first cylinder block. A second cylinder bore and a second storage chamber are formed in the second cylinder block. The first cylinder bore is formed to have a diameter smaller than the diameter of the second cylinder bore. |
| US09284952B2 |
Trench-conformable geothermal heat exchange reservoirs and related methods and systems
The disclosure describes trench-confirmable geothermal reservoirs that can snugly abut trench walls (that may be of virgin, compacted earth) for facilitating heat exchange and flow liquid from one lower end to an opposing top end, and vice versa, depending on desired heat exchange. The direction can be reversed for summer and winter heat/cooling configurations. A series of the reservoirs may be used for appropriate heat transfer. The water volume of the reservoirs is relatively large and slow moving for good earth heat conduction. |
| US09284947B2 |
Responsive windmill
A windmill rotates on a vertical axis, with plural articulated working members circling around. Each working member has a pivotal edge like a vane, a flag or a hinged door, swings on its own axis and is also rotatable around the central axis. On the axis of each working member is furnished a joint controller to restrain the movement of each, flipping and engaging the favorable wind in about ¾ turn of the central axis but disengaging in the rest ¼ turn. The engagement of the controller is elastically releasable on excessive load or over-speeding, allowing the respective working member to skip the engaging temporarily during each rotation. |
| US09284944B2 |
Vertical shaft type darius windmill
The present invention relates to a Darrieus windmill, and more specifically, to a vertical axis type Darrieus windmill that enables self-start in the low wind velocity range. The Darrieus windmill, in which a primary vertical shaft is rotated by the lift forces generated by primary blades, has a starting means for assisting the starting or rotation of the primary shaft at a low wind velocity. The present invention provides advantages of enabling self-start and rotation due to the lift generated by the blade in low wind velocity conditions and enabling the generation of rotating moments in any wind direction or wind velocity, thereby easily starting even in urban areas with very low wind velocities or large variations in wind direction, and thus enabling the generation of electricity over a wide range of wind velocities. |
| US09284943B2 |
Vertical axis wind turbine
A vertical axis wind turbine formed from an arrangement of fixed stator blades to provide fluid flow acceleration into an arrangement of rotatable blades secured to a generator for invoking electrical power generation. The stator blades are maintained in position by use of a stator plate. Rotor blades are coupled to the generator. The amount of stator and rotor blades may be scaled in number and size depending upon the type of generator to be driven and associated mechanical energy to be obtained. The stator blades are designed for air deflection in a direction for optimal rotor blade rotation by accelerating air flow into a pre-swirl before the flow contacts the rotor blades. Each stator blade is oriented at a sufficient stagger angle so that an angle of the relative velocity does not exceed the stall angle of said rotor blade. |
| US09284941B2 |
Natural energy extraction apparatus
An object of the present invention is to provide a natural energy extraction apparatus which can extract kinetic energies of river water currents or tidal water currents at various depth layers, and which is easy to attach to the fixed structure above water current. A natural energy extraction apparatus comprises a float, a vertical-axis water turbine fixed to the float and extending downward, a power transmission device engaging an upper end of the float and converting rotational kinetic energy of the float to driving torque for driven equipment, and arm members supporting the power transmission device rotatably around a horizontal axis at one ends and supported by a fixed structure above a water current rotatably around a horizontal axis at the other ends, wherein the float and the vertical-axis water turbine are located in a river water current or tidal water current. |
| US09284940B2 |
Motion translating assembly and a wave energy generation system using the assembly
A system and method for converting wave energy into electric energy in an intelligent, practical, and efficient manner. The system utilizes a power input shaft coupled with a vertically reciprocating buoy to rotate a crank gear and a ratchet gear meshing therewith. When the gears rotate, a plurality of generators coupled therewith produce electric energy. A flexible pivot device connects the power input shaft and the crank gear for absorbing impacts against the system from irregular and variable passing waves. The power input shaft is adjusted in response to water level fluctuations for maximum efficiency. A counterbalancing and maintenance device is coupled with the buoy to improve energy conversion efficiency and to uplift the buoy to a safe position in extreme conditions. An intelligent control system is included to monitor, control, and optimize the operations of the system. |
| US09284938B2 |
Glow plug and fabrication method for same
A glow plug (1) has a housing (2) and a heater (3). The housing (2) includes a thread portion (5), a tool engagement portion (6), a press contact portion (7) brought into press contact with a plug seat surface of an engine upon screwing the thread portion (5) into a mounting hole of the engine, a front body portion (9) located between the press contact portion (7) and the thread portion (5) and a rear body portion (8) located between the tool engagement portion (6) and the thread portion (5). At least one of the front body portion (9) and the rear body portion (8) has a thickness smaller than or equal to a predetermined value and includes a plurality of reinforcing parts (9A, 8A) provided intermittently in a circumferential direction of the housing (2) in the form of protrusions or recesses extending in the direction of an axis CL1. |
| US09284936B2 |
Method and device for controlling the exhaust gas recirculation rate for internal combustion engines during lean operation
A method for setting an exhaust gas recirculation rate in an engine system having an internal combustion engine, the exhaust gas recirculation rate indicating the portion of the exhaust gas recirculated into one cylinder of the internal combustion engine with regard to the total gas quantity present in the cylinder, including: operating the internal combustion engine according to an input for the exhaust gas recirculation rate, an ignition of an air/fuel mixture being carried out in the cylinder at a certain ignition timing; adjusting the ignition timing in the cylinder of the internal combustion engine; correcting the input for the exhaust gas recirculation rate as a function of a change in an operating behavior of the internal combustion engine due to the ignition timing adjustment. |
| US09284935B2 |
Warm-up apparatus for vehicle
A warm-up apparatus for a vehicle including a system which charges a battery by using an external power supply is provided. The warm-up apparatus includes a heater for warming up, a current detector, a voltage detector and a resistance changer. The heater is mounted in the vehicle and produces heat by receiving electric power from the external power supply. The current detector detects an allowable current value of the external power supply. The voltage detector detects an output voltage value of the external power supply. The resistance changer changes an electric resistance value of the heater based on the allowable current value detected by the current detector and the output voltage value detected by the voltage detector. |
| US09284931B2 |
Engine fuel pump and method for operation thereof
A method of pressuring fuel for a direct injection fuel system via a fuel pump in an engine is provided. The method includes, during a first mode, adjusting a magnetic solenoid valve (MSV) to control pump outlet pressure and during a second mode, deactivating the MSV and controlling pump outlet pressure via a noise-reducing valve assembly on an inlet side of the fuel pump. |
| US09284927B2 |
Motorcycle with turbocharger
An engine; an air cleaner which filtrates fuel air; a turbocharger which compresses intake fuel air; an intake pipe which connects the air cleaner and the turbocharger; and an intake passage which induces the fuel air taken from an intake port at an end part to the air cleaner, are included. The turbocharger is located at a front side lower part of the engine, and the air cleaner is located under a crankcase. The intake passage extends rearward from a rear part of the air cleaner, and thereafter, bends upward. |
| US09284926B2 |
Straddle type vehicle
Straddle type vehicle takes traveling wind into a space between paired left and right main frames. Air is introduced to an air cleaner arranged between the paired left and right main frames. The paired main frames include left and right U-shaped portions having U-shaped cross sections opened inward in the vehicle width direction and constituting a part of an air cleaner case. Hollow left and right frame portions are provided below the left and right U-shaped portions, and the air cleaner is arranged between the left and right U-shaped portions. |
| US09284924B2 |
Vehicle refueling detection method utilizing hydrocarbon sensor
Embodiments for detecting fuel events are presented. In an embodiment, a method comprises performing an action responsive to a fuel event indicated based on output from a hydrocarbon sensor positioned between a fuel tank and a fuel vapor canister. In this way, the hydrocarbon sensor may be used to detect fuel events and engine operation may be adjusted accordingly. |
| US09284923B2 |
Fuel vapor recovery apparatus
A fuel vapor recovery apparatus to be mounted on a vehicle having a fuel tank has an adsorbent canister capable of adsorbing and desorbing fuel vapor vaporized in the fuel tank, a vapor path providing communication between the fuel tank and the adsorbent canister, a purge path providing communication between the adsorbent canister and an intake path of an internal combustion engine, a purge valve configured to open and close the purge path, a blocking valve configured to open and close the vapor path and having a valve body, and a regulator for controlling the purge valve and the blocking valve. The fuel tank is sealed when the blocking valve is closed. The fuel tank is configured to be depressurized by opening the blocking valve. The blocking valve is composed of a motor valve that has a driving motor and can adjust an opening amount by controlling a stroke of the valve body. |
| US09284921B2 |
Powertrain for hybrid vehicle having dedicated EGR
Various methods and systems may be used to provide recirculated engine exhaust to an engine of a hybrid powertrain. It is assumed that the engine is equipped with a dedicated EGR loop. At least one cylinder is operated as a dedicated exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) cylinder, such that all exhaust of that cylinder is recirculated to the fresh air intake of the engine via the EGR loop. One or more cylinders are operated as main cylinders, such that exhaust from those cylinders exits the engine to the atmosphere. The engine itself is operable for at least part of its operation in a decoupled mode in which the dedicated EGR cylinder is mechanically decoupled from the engine crankshaft. During this decoupled mode, the dedicated EGR cylinder powers a generator. The main cylinders are operable exclusively to provide power to the crankshaft. |
| US09284917B2 |
Gas distribution manifold in the cylinder head of an engine, with the recirculated exhaust gas mixture in a counter-flow to the admission gases
The invention relates to a gas distribution manifold (3) in the cylinder head (4) of a heat engine of a motor vehicle, said manifold (3) comprising a manifold housing (31) provided with an inflow face for the inflow of an admission gas (G) and an outflow face (3B) entering the cylinder head of the engine, in such a way as to enable the circulation of the admission gas flow in the downstream direction in the manifold housing (31); and means for injecting a recirculated exhaust gas flow (H) of the engine into the admission gas flow (G). Said injection means are formed in the manifold in such a way that the recirculated exhaust gas flow is injected in a counter-flow to the admission gas flow. |
| US09284915B2 |
Gas turbine engine exhaust mixer
An exhaust mixer for a gas turbine engine includes an annular wall having upstream end adapted to be fastened to an engine case and a downstream end forming a plurality of inner and outer mixer lobes. A support member interconnects at least a number of the inner lobes, and includes a circumferentially extending stiffener ring located radially inwardly from the inner lobes and a series of circumferentially spaced apart mixer struts radially extending from the inner lobes to the stiffener ring. The mixer struts have a radial length at least equal to a width of a main gas path defined between the inner lobes and the exhaust cone such that the mixer struts extend entirely through the main gas path. The stiffener ring being fixed solely to the mixer struts such as to float with respect to the exhaust cone and permit relative movement therebetween. |
| US09284913B2 |
Metal gasket
There is provided a metal gasket that is at low cost yet with high sealing performance. A metal gasket 1 includes at least one metal gasket substrate 2 having a circumferential bead 14 formed circumferentially around a cylinder hole 6. The circumferential bead 14 includes a first bead portion 20 formed of a pair of inclined walls 20a, 20b each extending from the gasket substrate to a tip end, the tip ends of the pair of the inclined walls being spaced from each other, and a second bead portion 21 extending from the tip ends of the inclined walls 20a, 20b in a direction opposite to the protruding direction of the inclined walls. The following relationships are satisfied: Fh1>Fh2, and W1>W2, where Fh1 is a height of the first bead portion 20, Fh2 is a height of the second bead portion 21, W1 is a half of a width of the circumferential bead 14, and W2 is a width of the second bead portion 21. |
| US09284909B2 |
Method and system for knock control
Methods and systems are provided for improving engine knock tolerance, in particular when rapidly ramping in LP-EGR from low levels of EGR. Until a desired LP-EGR rate is achieved, fuel may be delivered as a split injection with at least an intake stroke injection and a compression stroke injection to compensate for the transport delay in EGR filling the intake system. Subsequently, single fuel injection may be resumed. |
| US09284904B2 |
Method and device for monitoring a high-pressure fuel system
A method for monitoring a fuel pressure in a fuel injection system of an internal combustion engine. A setpoint fuel pressure is initially set in the fuel injection system. Next, a first fuel injection and a subsequent second fuel injection are executed at a time interval shorter than a decay time of a pressure wave in the fuel injection system, triggerable by the first fuel injection. In an additional step, a monitored fuel injection quantity, which is injected via the second fuel injection, is ascertained. An action is executed if the monitored fuel injection quantity differs from a setpoint fuel injection quantity, which is predefinable for the setpoint fuel pressure, by more than a limiting value. The invention also relates to a computer program product for executing the method and to a device for monitoring a fuel pressure in a fuel injection system of an internal combustion engine. |
| US09284901B2 |
Method and device for operating an internal combustion engine
In a method and a device for operating an internal combustion engine, with at least one cylinder (Z1-Z4) having a combustion chamber (26), fuel is injected into the cylinder and a logic value (LV_FCUT) is set, in particular for stopping the injection of fuel into the cylinder, The method furthermore has the following steps: depending on a course of the highly time-resolved measurement signal of a rotational speed (N_FAST) of the internal combustion engine, a local maximum value (N_FAST_MAX) of the rotational speed is determined, a rotational speed difference (N_FAST_DIF) between the local maximum value (N_FAST_MAX) and a current measured value (N_FAST_MES) of the rotational speed is determined, and, depending on the determined rotational speed difference (N_FAST_DIF), the logic value (LV_FCUT) is set. |
| US09284899B2 |
Method and system of cleaning a control valve
A method and system of cleaning a turbocharger bypass control valve, the control valve being operable to vary the position of a bypass valve and thereby vary the amount of flow bypass across a turbine and/or compressor of a turbocharger for an engine. The method comprises: determining whether the control valve may require cleaning; adjusting the duty cycle of the shuttle so as to increase a flow of fluid through the control valve and clean the control valve; and adjusting a throttle position of the engine and thus the engine torque output to compensate for the adjustment in the amount of boost provided by the turbocharger. |
| US09284896B2 |
Method for maximizing microhybrid auto start-stop availability
A method for maximizing the availability of start-stop operations within a microhybrid vehicle includes determining the electric current drawn by a set of electrical components of the vehicle, from the vehicle's battery. The internal resistance of the vehicle's battery, and the resistance of a starter motor loop circuit coupled to the engine of the vehicle are dynamically calculated. The closed-circuit voltage of the battery is predicted, using the internal resistance of the battery, the resistance of the starter motor loop circuit, and the current drawn by the set of electrical components of the vehicle. The start-stop operation is carried out if the closed-circuit voltage of the battery is predicted to be above a pre-determined minimum value. |
| US09284893B2 |
Apparatus and method for controlling rotation speed of internal combustion engine
Rotation speed control apparatus including an electronically controllable throttle valve capable of changing an intake air quantity, a variable compression ratio mechanism capable of changing a mechanical compression ratio, and an ECU configured to calculate a deviation between a target idle rotation speed and an actual rotation speed during idle operation, select either one or both of the intake air quantity and the mechanical compression ratio as control targets in accordance with magnitude of the deviation, and reduce the deviation by changing the selected either one or both of the intake air quantity and the mechanical compression ratio. |
| US09284891B2 |
Control apparatus and control method for variable valve mechanism
In a control apparatus for a variable valve mechanism that varies a valve characteristic of an engine valve, in a saturated state in which a calculated manipulated variable of the variable valve mechanism exceeds an outputtable manipulated variable, convergence to a desired position is achieved while suppressing a response delay and an overshoot. If a feedforward manipulated variable calculated according to a reference response exceeds an outputtable limit manipulated variable, a saturating amount (feedforward manipulated variable—limit manipulated variable) is integrated. Upon completion of the integration, the feedforward manipulated variable is corrected based on an FF manipulated variable correction amount, and the integrated value of saturating amount is replaced by a value obtained by subtracting the FF manipulated variable correction amount each time a correction is made. When the integrated value of saturating amount reduces to a predetermined value or less, a control mode is switched to feedback control. |
| US09284890B2 |
Method of determining a combustor exit temperature and method of controlling a gas turbine
A method of determining an exit temperature of a gas exiting a combustor of a gas turbine includes determining a mass flow and a temperature of fuel being delivered to the combustor; determining a mass flow and a temperature of air being delivered to the combustor, determining a temperature dependence of the specific heat capacity of a burnt mixture of the fuel and the air being delivered to the combustor; and determining an exit temperature of the burnt mixture exiting the combustor. The exit temperature is determined based on the determined mass flow and temperature of the fuel, the determined mass flow and temperature of the air, and the determined temperature dependence of the specific heat capacity of the burnt mixture. |
| US09284885B2 |
Method and device for optimizing the utilization of an engine
A method of optimizing the use of an aircraft power plant having at least one engine operating within a performance envelope covering at least a first rating and a second rating, the first rating presenting a first power (P1) usable over a predetermined first time interval (D1), the second rating presenting a second power (P2) greater than said first power (P1), the second power (P2) being usable continuously over a predetermined second time interval (D2). Thus, while the engine is developing a third power (P3) that is both greater than the first power (P1) and less than or equal to the second power (P2), a potential first duration of utilization (ΔT) of continuous use of the second power (P2) is determined and displayed, the first duration of utilization (ΔT) elapsing at a speed that is variable and that depends on said third power (P3). |
| US09284884B2 |
Trapped burned gas fraction control for opposed-piston engines with uniflow scavenging
A trapped burned gas fraction is controlled in a two-stroke cycle opposed-piston engine with uniflow scavenging by adjusting an external EGR setpoint in real time. The adjusted setpoint is used to control EGR flow in the engine's air handling system. |
| US09284882B2 |
Hybrid drive device
A hybrid drive device having a clutch that engages and disengages an output member of an internal combustion engine and an input shaft of an automatic transmission device with and from each other. A rotary electric machine has a stator fixed to a case and a rotor coupled to the input shaft of the automatic transmission device. The rotary electric machine is disposed radially outwardly of the clutch so as to at least partially overlap the clutch in an axial direction as seen from a radial direction. Lubricating oil is supplied from the input shaft of the automatic transmission device to the clutch and the hybrid drive device includes a shield portion that allows the lubricating oil to bypass the rotary electric machine and leads the lubricating oil supplied to the clutch to an oil reservoir. |
| US09284881B2 |
Method for operating a compressor
A method for operating a compressor, which supplies an internal combustion engine that is assigned to the compressor at its output end with air compressed to a boost pressure, in which the boost pressure is reducible by releasing the compressed air at least partially via a pressure release valve. The air released via the pressure release valve is used for driving a compressor wheel of the compressor. |
| US09284877B2 |
Combustion chamber of direct injection diesel engine for reducing the NOx
Disclosed is a combustion chamber of a diesel engine provided with a bowl having a concave shape so that fuel injected from an injector creates a swirl or squishing flow to be mixed with air, and the combustion chamber of the diesel engine includes: a pip protruding from a center of a lower surface of the bowl toward the injector; a lip part protruding from a side surface of the bowl toward the injector; and a main combustion chamber provided on a lower portion of the lip part and a sub combustion chamber provided on an upper portion of the lip part, with the lip part interposed therebetween, in which a surface of the sub combustion chamber is formed in a flat shape or a concave bowl shape to have a depth of the sub combustion chamber of 0.8 mm or lower. |
| US09284873B2 |
Injector control for a selective catalytic reduction system
Systems and methods are provided for controlling the amount and timing of nitrogen oxide reductant injected during a given injection cycle into an exhaust system of a vehicle as part of a selective catalytic reduction system. The amount of reductant injected is determined by at least one computational model that accounts for the growth of liquid and/or solid reductant film growth on the interior of the exhaust system. The model determines reductant injection characteristics (e.g., amount, timing, etc.) that reduce and/or eliminate reductant films on the interior of the exhaust system. Exemplary inputs into the model include exhaust temperature, exhaust flow, and the amount of reductant injected in a previous injection cycle. |
| US09284871B2 |
Dosing module
The invention relates to a dosing module (10) for injecting a reduction agent, in particular a urea-water solution, into an exhaust pipe of an internal combustion engine, in particular of a self-igniting internal combustion engine, to reduce nitrogen oxides in the exhaust stream, wherein the dosing module has a main cooling element (12) through which a cooling liquid flows, in particular for cooling an injection valve (64) for the reduction agent. According to the invention, an additional cooling element (14), through which the cooling liquid likewise flows, in particular for cooling in the region of an electrical plug connection (22) and of an electromagnet (80) for actuating the injection valve (64), is placed on the basis cooling element (12), wherein a guide insert (30) for the cooling liquid is arranged in the main cooling element (12). As a result of the guide insert (30), priority cooling of the end section (72) of the injection valve (64) which is in direct contact with the hot exhaust stream of the internal combustion engine occurs. According to the invention, reliable operation of the dosing module (10) is ensured, even at ambient temperatures of 160° C. and above. |
| US09284869B2 |
Particulate matter processing apparatus
A concentration of HC in an exhaust gas is estimated with a high degree of accuracy by making use of a particulate matter processing apparatus (1). In the particulate matter processing apparatus (1) in which a processing part (3) with an electrode (5) installed therein is arranged in an exhaust passage (2) of an internal combustion engine, wherein particulate matter is caused to aggregate by generating a potential difference between the electrode (5) and the processing part (3), provision is made for a power supply (6) that is connected to the electrode (5) and applies a voltage thereto, an insulation part (4) that insulates electricity between the processing part (3) and the exhaust passage (2), and a ground part (53) that grounds the processing part (3), a detection device (9) that detects an electric current in the ground part (53), and an estimation device (7) that estimates a concentration of HC in an exhaust gas based on the electric current detected by the detection device (9) at the time when the voltage is applied to the electrode (5) by means of the power supply (6). |
| US09284864B2 |
Switching roller finger follower with locking mechanism
A switching roller finger follower, including: a housing with a first wall with a first opening, a second wall with a second opening, and an interior space at least partially formed by the walls; first and second outer arms; and a locking pin disposed in the openings and including a longitudinal axis, a body, and first and second protrusions extending radially outward from the body, formed of a same piece of material as the body, and at least one of which is located within the space. A respective portion of at least one of the first or second protrusions is aligned with the first or second wall in a direction parallel to the first longitudinal axis. The locking pin is displaceable such that: in a locked mode, the locking pin blocks pivoting of the arms; and in an unlocked mode, the locking pin is free of contact with the arms. |
| US09284860B2 |
Valve housing for a control valve of a camshaft adjusting system, and method for producing a valve housing
A valve housing for a control valve of a camshaft adjuster, including a housing flange for fastening to a control unit as well as an essentially cylindrical housing component for accommodating a control piston. It is provided that the housing component is rotatably fixedly attached to the housing flange by a form-locked connection. A valve housing of this type is cost effective to manufacture and has a low weight, while ensuring operational reliability. The invention furthermore relates to a method for manufacturing an aforementioned valve housing. |
| US09284858B2 |
Method and parts for making a tubular workpiece, in particular a built-up camshaft
The invention relates to a method for producing a tubular structural part by means of hydroforming. An assigned end of a supporting tube (1) is inserted into an opening in an end piece (2) and then widened by a pressurized fluid being applied to it and is connected to the end piece (2) with a press fit. The opening (9) has a first portion (10a) with a first inner cross section, which is greater than the outer cross section of the assigned end of the supporting tube (1). According to the invention, the first portion (10a) is adjoined by a second portion (10b), in a step-shaped manner so as to form an edge (11). The inner cross section of the second portion (10b) is smaller than the outer cross section of the assigned end of the supporting tube (1). In the method according to the invention, the supporting tube (1) is first inserted with its corresponding end into the first portion (10a), before the edge (11) cuts into the material of the supporting tube (1) in a further pushing-in movement. |
| US09284855B2 |
Parallel cycle heat engines
Waste heat energy conversion cycles, systems and devices use multiple waste heat exchangers arranged in series in a waste heat stream, and multiple thermodynamic cycles run in parallel with the waste heat exchangers in order to maximize thermal energy extraction from the waste heat stream by a working fluid. The parallel cycles operate in different temperature ranges with a lower temperature work output used to drive a working fluid pump. A working fluid mass management system is integrated into or connected to the cycles. |
| US09284853B2 |
System and method for integrating sections of a turbine
A system and method for integrating sections of a turbine are provided. In one system, a turbine includes a last stage bucket section with a first annular outer wall that is angled with respect to a centerline of the turbine at a first angle average. The turbine also includes a diffuser section having a second annular outer wall that is angled with respect to the centerline of the turbine at a second angle average for improving radial swirl. The first angle average is greater than the second angle average. |
| US09284852B2 |
Flexible printed circuit board harness
A gas turbine engine installation is provided that has a flexible printed circuit board (FPCB) harness to transfer electrical signals, including electrical power, around a gas turbine engine. The FPCB harness is held to the gas turbine engine installation using clips. The clips have a jaw that has two sets of opposing teeth extending from a base, and a mouth through which the FPCB harness is inserted. The teeth point in a direction that has a component from the mouth to the teeth. This means that the force required to insert the FPCB harness into the clip is lower than the force required to pull the FPCB harness out of the clip in the opposite direction. This means that the FPCB harness can be secured in place while aiding ease of assembly. |
| US09284850B1 |
Energy reclamation from fluid-moving systems
A system includes a building, a fluid-moving system, and a turbine system. The fluid-moving system includes one or more conduits in or coupled to the data center and a pump. The pump moves fluid through the conduits. The turbine system includes a turbine and generator. The turbine has a runner in a flow of fluid in one of the conduits. The generator produces electricity from rotation of the runner. |
| US09284848B2 |
Method for integrally connecting blades and disks in order to form a blade-disk unit, as well as correspondingly produced blade-disk unit
A blade-disk unit for a turbine engine includes a disk and a plurality of blades which are integrally connected to the disk, a welding seam being disposed in the joining region between the blade and the disk, which welding seam is situated entirely either in the blade or in the disk. |
| US09284846B2 |
Pt-Al-Hf/Zr coating and method
A Pt—Al—Hf/Zr aluminide coating that can be used as a bond coat for TBC and improve TBC spallation life in service at elevated temperatures is provided. The aluminide coating can include a metastable ternary or higher X—Pt/Pd—Ni phase where the phase and other elements in the alloy system are present in a NiAl β phase of the coating. The metastable phase can be present and observable in the as-deposited condition of the bond coating; e.g. in an as-CVD deposited condition of the bond coating. |
| US09284845B2 |
Turbine airfoil tip shelf and squealer pocket cooling
An airfoil comprises pressure and suction surfaces extending from a root section to a tip section of the airfoil. The airfoil also comprises a leading edge and trailing edge defining a chord length therebetween. A tip shelf is formed along the tip section between the pressure surface and a tip shelf wall, the tip shelf wall being spaced between the pressure surface and the suction surface. A squealer pocket is formed along the tip section between the tip shelf wall and a squealer tip wall extending from the suction surface. The tip shelf extends from within 10% of the cord length measured from the leading edge to within 10% of the chord length measured from the trailing edge. The squealer pocket extends from within 10% of the chord length measured from the leading edge to terminate less than 85% of the chord length measured from the trailing edge. |
| US09284844B2 |
Gas turbine engine component with cusped cooling hole
A component for a gas turbine engine includes a wall and a cooling hole extending through the wall. The wall has a first surface and a second surface. The cooling hole includes a metering section that extends from an inlet in the first surface of the wall to a transition, a diffusing section that extends from the transition to an outlet in the second surface of the wall, and a cusp on the transition. |
| US09284841B1 |
Disposable heat exchanger assembly for sterile and aseptic biotechnology and pharmaceutical manufacturing applications
A disposable heat exchanger system including a sterile disposable bag assembly and sets of modular stainless steel heating/cooling plate assemblies is disclosed. The sterile disposable bags are manifolded together via disposable tubing and are installed and filled in place with cell culture or protein containing process fluid between the stainless steel heating/cooling plates. The stainless steel heating/cooling plates are manifolded together in a modular fashion with stainless steel tubing. Both the sterile disposable bag assembly and the heating/cooling plates are configured to have a serpentine flow pattern. The process fluid within the sterile disposable bag assembly and heating/cooling fluid within the modular stainless steel heating/cooling plates flow in opposite directions in order to provide counter-current flow for efficient heating or cooling. |
| US09284839B2 |
Side-mounted bolt driver and method of driving rock bolts
A rock drilling and bolting system comprises a drill feed slidable on a drill feed rail for drilling a hole, a bolter feed slidable on a bolter feed rail, the bolter feed having a main bolt driver for driving a rock bolt, a side-mounted bolt driver mounted to the bolter feed rail, the side-mounted bolt driver being disposed rearwardly of the main bolt driver to receive the rock bolt when there is insufficient space to load the rock bolt in the main bolt driver and to drive the rock bolt partially into the hole, and an indexing mechanism for rotating the main bolt driver into alignment with the rock bolt that is partially driven into the hole, wherein the main bolt driver drives the rock bolt fully into the hole. |
| US09284837B2 |
Focused probe apparatus and method therefor
Apparatus and methods for downhole formation testing including use of a probe having inner and outer channels adapted to collect or inject injecting fluids from or to a formation accessed by a borehole. The probe straddles one or more layers in laminated or fractured formations and uses the inner channels to collect fluid. |
| US09284834B2 |
Downhole data transmission system
A method and system are disclosed herein relating to transmitting data within a borehole. The method and system include having a transmitter disposed at a first location within the borehole and configured to generate a first signal, and more than one receiver and/or repeater disposed at a second location within the borehole. The receivers and/or repeaters are configured to receive the first signal, and further are configured to communicate with each other. |
| US09284833B2 |
Method of tracing flow of hydrocarbon from a subterranean reservoir
A method of tracing flow of hydrocarbon from a subterranean reservoir including forming a dispersion, injecting a hydraulic fracturing fluid containing the dispersion down a well penetrating a hydrocarbon reservoir, thereafter collecting a sample of hydrocarbon fluid flowing from the reservoir, and analyzing the sample to determine whether the tracer compound is present in the sample. The dispersion includes a discontinuous condensed phase having a hydrocarbon-soluble tracer compound and a continuous phase which includes an aqueous liquid. |
| US09284831B2 |
Apparatus and method for operating a subsea compression system
Apparatus and method for operating a subsea compression system. The subsea compression system comprising a separator, a compressor and a pump, wherein the compressor is operable for compression and discharge of gas that is separated from a well stream fed into the separator, and the pump is operable for pumping liquid that is separated from the well stream. The compressed gas is recycled from the compressor discharge side to the compressor intake side via a turbo-expander unit which is drivingly connected to the pump, the pump operable in response to circulation of compressed gas from the compressor discharge side to the compressor intake side. |
| US09284829B2 |
Simulating subterranean fracture propagation
Systems, methods, and instructions encoded in a computer-readable medium can perform operations related to simulating subterranean fracture propagation. A subterranean formation model representing rock blocks of a subterranean formation is received. The subterranean formation model is used to predict a response of each rock block to one or more forces acting on the rock block during an injection treatment for the subterranean formation. The predicted responses of the rock blocks may include, for example, a fracture, a rotation, a displacement, a dilation of an existing fracture, and/or another type of response. In some implementations, an injection treatment may be designed for a subterranean formation based on the predicted response of the rock blocks. |
| US09284828B2 |
Method for increasing hydrocarbon extraction and for ensuring the continuous operation of wells
A method for increasing extraction of oil, gas and gas condensates from deposits includes the steps of pumping a working fluid into a well, wherein the working fluid is an organic solvent comprising at least one aromatic hydrocarbon, at least one carboxylic acid and at least one organic acid, adjusting a density of the working fluid based at least in part on a density of formation fluid, and adjusting a viscosity of the working fluid based at least in part on desired degree of penetration of the working fluid into surrounding formation layers. |
| US09284827B2 |
Hydrocarbon recovery facilitated by in situ combustion
A process for hydrocarbon recovery performs a steam assisted gravity drainage (SAGD) operation by injecting steam in a steam injection well of a SAGD well pair and continuing to inject steam to establish fluid communication between the steam injection well and an oxidizing gas injection well that includes an oxidizing gas injection well segment that is spaced generally above the steam injection well segment, and producing hydrocarbons from a hydrocarbon production well of the SAGD well pair, the hydrocarbon production well including a generally horizontal production well segment disposed generally parallel to and vertically below a generally horizontal steam injection well segment of the steam injection well such that the steam injection well segment is disposed generally vertically between the production well segment and the oxidizing gas injection well segment. In response to determining that the steam injected in the steam injection well reaches the oxidizing gas injection well or is near a top of the oil sands reservoir, SAGD is discontinued and oxidizing gas is injected through an injection well. The oxidizing gas supports in situ combustion (ISC) in the reservoir. During ISC, combustion gases are produced through the steam injection well of the steam assisted gravity drainage well pair; and the mobilized hydrocarbons are recovered from the reservoir through the hydrocarbon production well of the steam assisted gravity drainage well pair. |
| US09284826B2 |
Oil extraction using radio frequency heating
Provided herein are embodiments for extracting oil from an oil-bearing formation. An embodiment of a method includes heating a first portion of the formation with radio frequency energy generated by a radio frequency generator electrically coupled to an antenna. The antenna is positioned within a wellbore and located within the first portion to heat the first portion to a minimum temperature of about 160° F. The radio frequency generator delivers power in a range from about 50 kilowatts to about 2 Megawatts, and a power per unit length of antenna is in a range from about 0.5 kW/m to 5 kW/m. The method includes extracting the oil from the first portion after heating to create void space for steam injection. The method also includes injecting steam into the first portion to heat a second portion of the formation adjacent to the first portion and extracting the oil from the second portion. |
| US09284823B2 |
Combined perforating and fracking tool
A combined perforating and fracking tool, and method for using same, for perforating a hydrocarbon well casing and for subsequently fracturing the formation while maintaining the tool in situ. The combined perforating and fracking tool comprises, in a preferred embodiment, a series of connected cylinders arranged to be disposed in a well casing, each of the cylinders comprising a cooperating piston whereby a magnification of hydraulic force is generated. The series of pistons operate to actuate a punch assembly disposed at a downhole end of the series of connected cylinders to perforate the casing. A fluid injection port, in operation with at least one sealing member disposed at each end of the series of connected cylinders, allows fluid to be diverted into the formation through the perforations created in the well casing to induce fracturing in the formation. |
| US09284822B2 |
Method for chemical treatment of a subsurface wellbore
A method for injecting treatment chemical into a well includes selecting times at which to operate a chemical dispenser to inject a selected amount of treatment chemical into a well. At each selected time whether a wellbore pump is operating is determined. If the pump is operating the selected amount of treatment chemical is dispensed into the well. If the pump is not operating, no chemical is dispensed and a counter is incremented. At each subsequent selected time, the determining whether the well pump is operating is repeated. When a subsequent selected time coincides with a time at which the well pump is determined to be operating, the chemical dispenser is operated to inject a product of the number in the counter plus one, and the selected amount of treatment chemical into the well. |
| US09284818B2 |
Downhole tool for borehole cleaning or for moving fluid in a borehole
The present invention relates to a downhole tool (1) for borehole cleaning or for moving fluid in a borehole. The tool comprises a tool housing (29), a chamber inlet (6) and a chamber outlet (36), and the tool housing comprises a pump (8) arranged in a pump housing (4) and a driving unit powered by an electrical conducting means for driving the pump. |
| US09284817B2 |
Dual magnetic sensor actuation assembly
A well tool comprising a housing comprising ports and defining a flow passage, an actuator, a dual magnetic sensor actuation assembly (DMSAA) in signal communication with the actuator and comprising a first magnetic sensor up-hole relative to a second magnetic sensor, and an electronic circuit comprising a counter, and wherein, the DMSAA detects a magnetic signal and determines the direction of movement of the magnetic device emitting the magnetic signal, and a sleeve slidable within the housing and transitional from a first position in which the sleeve prevents fluid communication via the ports to a second position in which the sleeve allows fluid communication via the ports, wherein, the sleeve transitions from the first to the second position upon recognition of a predetermined quantity of magnetic signals traveling in a particular direction. |
| US09284816B2 |
Actuation assemblies, hydraulically actuated tools for use in subterranean boreholes including actuation assemblies and related methods
Actuation assemblies include a valve assembly comprising a valve sleeve configured to rotate to selectively enable fluid flow through at least one aperture in the valve sleeve and into at least one port of an outer sleeve and a ball retention feature configured to selectively retain a ball dropped through a fluid passageway of the valve assembly in order to rotate the valve sleeve. Downhole tools include actuation assemblies. Methods for actuating a downhole tool include receiving a ball in an actuation assembly, rotating a valve sleeve of the actuation assembly to enable fluid to flow through a portion of the actuation assembly, and actuating a portion of the downhole tool with the fluid. |
| US09284812B2 |
System for increasing swelling efficiency
A swellable system reactive to a flow of fluid including an article having a swellable material operatively arranged to swell upon exposure to a flow of fluid containing ions therein. A filter material is disposed with the swellable material and operatively arranged to remove the ions from the flow of fluid before exposure to the swellable material. |
| US09284806B2 |
Systems and methods for pulling subsea structures
A system for pulling a subsea structure includes an adapter configured to be mounted to an upper end of a subsea pile. In addition, the system includes an interface assembly fixably coupled to the adapter. The interface assembly includes a first channel configured to receive a flexible tension member and a first chuck disposed in the first channel. The tension assembly includes a second channel configured to receive the flexible tension member and a second chuck disposed in the second channel. Each chuck is configured to pivot about a horizontal axis between an unlocked position allowing the flexible tension member to move in a first axial direction and a locked position preventing the tension member from moving in a second axial direction that is opposite the first axial direction. |
| US09284805B2 |
Method for applying physical fields of an apparatus in the horizontal end of an inclined well to productive hydrocarbon beds
A device to affect oil-saturated layers and bottom hole zone of horizontal wells includes an emitter, a housing, presenting a double-moduled configuration, wherein the a first module and a second module are interconnected. The device includes a condenser charging unit of the first module, which is connected to an equipment that is located at a wellhead and has the capacity to transmit the data and condenser charges using a delivery tool, and a sensor that controls the force arising at the junction of the delivery tool and the device. |
| US09284799B2 |
Method for drilling through nuisance hydrocarbon bearing formations
A method for controlling entry of hydrocarbon into a wellbore from a subsurface formation includes determining whether hydrocarbon is entering the wellbore. Whether a rate of hydrocarbon entry into the wellbore is slowing is then determined Control of discharge from the wellbore is then switched from maintaining a selected wellbore pressure to controlling a rate of discharge of fluid from the wellbore to be substantially constant if the hydrocarbon entry rate is slowing. Control of discharge from the wellbore is returned to maintaining the selected wellbore pressure when the hydrocarbon stops entering the wellbore. |
| US09284791B2 |
Apparatus and method to clean a tubular member
A system to clean a tubular member includes an apparatus to support a tubular member having a bore with a longitudinal axis extending therethrough, and a fluid dispensing system disposed adjacent to an opening of the apparatus, the fluid dispensing system having a nozzle to dispense fluid therefrom. |
| US09284790B2 |
Innovative cutting element and cutting structure using same
A cutting tool is disclosed that includes a tool body, a plurality of cutting element support structures extending from the tool body, at least one slot formed in at least one of the cutting element support structures, a cutting element having a diamond shearing element with a plurality of surfaces, and at least one mechanical retention mechanism adjacent to the cutting element. Each cutting element support structure has a leading face, a top side, and a trailing face, and the slot has two side surfaces, each side surface terminating at the leading face and top side of the cutting element support structure. Each surface of the cutting element has two dimensional values, wherein the cutting element is positioned in the at least one slot such that a plane in which the shortest dimensional value lies intersects the slot side surfaces. |
| US09284786B2 |
Drill bits having depth of cut control features and methods of making and using the same
A downhole cutting tool for drilling a borehole in an earthen formation may include a tool body having a tool axis and a direction of rotation about the tool axis; at least two blades attached to the tool body, the at least two blades having a leading face facing the direction of rotation of the tool body about the tool axis, a trailing face facing away from the direction of rotation of the tool body about the tool axis, and a formation facing surface extending between the leading face and the trailing face; and a plurality of cutting elements disposed on the at least two blades, each cutting element having a radial distance from the tool axis; wherein at least one blade, at its formation facing surface, comprises, between two radially adjacent cutting elements on the at least one blade, a raised depth of cut feature for each cutting element on the other of the at least two blades that are at radial distances from the tool axis intermediate the radial distances from the tool axis of the radially adjacent cutting elements on the at least one blade. |
| US09284785B2 |
Drill bits having depth of cut control features and methods of making and using the same
A drill bit for drilling a borehole in an earthen formation may include a bit body having a bit axis and a direction of rotation about the bit axis; at least two blades extending azimuthally from the bit body; and a plurality of cutting elements disposed on the at least two blades; the plurality of cutting elements forming a cutting profile in a rotated profile view, each cutting element having a radial distance from the bit axis. At least one blade, at its formation facing surface, may include, between two radially adjacent cutting elements on the at least one blade, a raised depth of cut feature for each cutting element on the other of the at least two blades that are at radial distances from the bit axis intermediate the radial distances from the bit axis of the radially adjacent cutting elements on the at least one blade. |
| US09284782B2 |
Eccentric steering device and methods of directional drilling
A method, system and apparatus for steering a drill string and including an eccentric steering device. The eccentric steering device may comprise an eccentric sleeve configured for mounting exterior to a portion of the drill string and permitting the drill string to rotate within the eccentric sleeve and a brake positioned to selectively cause rotation of the eccentric sleeve with the drill string. In one embodiment, the eccentric steering device may further comprise one or more bearings positioned between the eccentric sleeve and the drill string. |
| US09284765B2 |
Combination doorbumper/doorstopper
A combination doorbumper and doorstopper includes a mounting plate, spindle, bumper, toggle bolt, and toggle bolt anchor. The doorbumper is installed on a wall so that a doorknob or door handle will engage the bumper when the door is fully opened. The spindle is positioned between the mounting plate and the bumper, and includes a narrow neck region. The door can be held in an opened position by placing a loop end of a flexible cord over the doorknob or handle on the opposite side of the door from the doorbumper, and stretching the cord so that a hook at the opposite end of the cord can be placed over the neck of the spindle. The doorbumper together with the flexible cord acts as a doorstopper to hold the door open. |
| US09284764B2 |
Sliding pin lock mechanism for overhead door with microswitch
A door lock mechanism for an overhead door employs a sliding pin or rod that passes into the path of the rollers in the track, and obstructs the roller from movement in the direction to open the door. A spring in the door lock frame biases the sliding pin towards a proximal open position. The sliding pin has a swing arm that extends radially from the pin's proximal end, and which engages retaining structure at the proximal end of the door lock frame. In the lock position the distal end of the sliding pin blocks movement of wheels or rollers in the vertical track. The arm is rotated out of engagement with the retaining structure to release the pin so it may slide proximally to an unlocked position. A microswitch in the interior of the lock switches on when the sliding pin is moved to the locked position and turns off when the pin is returned to its unlocked position. A sleeve disposed over the proximal part of the spring engages the actuator of the microswitch. |
| US09284763B2 |
Door stop
Various implementations of a hinge-mounted door stop are disclosed. In some implementations, the door stop is fashioned to be unobtrusive when installed on a door hinge assembly in order to reduce a possibility of being noticed in plain sight. Moreover, the door stop has a simple construction that allows quick and easy installation on a door hinge assembly relative to other configurations. |
| US09284762B2 |
Pan adapter
The present disclosure provides an adapter configured to be secured to an edge of a container. The adapter may include a top portion configured to conform to a top surface of the edge of the container. The adapter may also include a bottom portion coupled to the top portion. The bottom portion may include a raised portion configured to conform to a bottom surface of the edge of the container. Further, a bottom surface of the bottom portion may include a substantially planar slot configured to receive a mounting clip. In one example, the mounting clip may be connected to a food guard configured to cover an opening in the container. |
| US09284760B2 |
Electrical panelboard guard
Disclosed herein is a panelboard guard assembly configured to restrict access to a panelboard having a cover and a door defined therein, the cover having first and second side edges. The panelboard guard assembly includes a first strap, a second strap and an adjusting mechanism. The first strap has a first outer end and a first inner end. The second strap has a second outer end and a second inner end. The adjusting mechanism extends between and couples the first strap and the second strap at the first and second inner ends. |
| US09284759B2 |
Locking system of the passive door blade of a double door
The invention comprises a lock body (20) and two pull bars (23, 24). The arrangement further an installation frame (14, 44) for the lock body (20), attachment ends (25) in the ends facing the lock body (20) of the pull bars (23, 24) and an attachment part (30) in the lock body (20). The installation frame (14, 44) is provided with attachment arrangements (16, 45) for fastening the installation frame to the passive door blade as well as with support parts (18) for the attachment ends (25) of the pull bars. The attachment parts (30) are arranged movably in the height direction of the lock body (20) and the attachment parts comprise mating surfaces (31, 40) for the attachment ends (25). |
| US09284756B2 |
Door locking assembly for a storage container
A locking assembly for a door of a storage container is provided. The storage container defines a door frame, and the door is movably mounted to the door frame. The locking assembly may include a first keeper secured to the door frame, a first locking cam configured to movably engage the first keeper, and a handle assembly coupled to the first locking cam. The handle assembly may be movable between a first position in which the handle assembly is in contact with the door frame and the first locking cam engages the first keeper to maintain the door in the closed position relative to the door frame and a second position in which the first locking cam disengages the first keeper to allow the door to open. The first and second positions of the handle assembly illustratively define an obtuse angle therebetween. |
| US09284753B1 |
Lock protector
A method of protecting a lock on the latch of a shipping container or trailer door without modifying the door latch includes a ring having a bar that is connected at both ends to the inside of the ring. The bar has an aperture dimensioned similarly to the bore on the retainer and handle elements of the door latch. The ring has a rim on one side including a saddle at each end of the bar so that when the rim is placed over the latch the saddles straddle the handle and the bores on the bar, the handle and the retainer are aligned. A shackle of a lock is placed through the bores on the handle, bar and retainer. The ring prevents cutting tools from directly accessing the shackle thereby protecting the lock. |
| US09284749B2 |
Door lock assembly
A lock assembly that includes an interior locking actuator, a biasing member that biases the interior locking actuator toward an unlocked position, a retaining member that retains the interior locking actuator in a locked position, and a driver rotatable from a locked position to an unlocked. The interior locking actuator is manually pushed and manually rotated to move the interior locking actuator from the unlocked position to the locked position. When the interior locking actuator is in the locked position, movement of the interior handle to retract a latch causes the biasing member to move the interior locking actuator toward the unlocked position. |
| US09284745B2 |
Outdoor memorial display case
A memorial for outdoor display is disclosed. The memorial includes a post for mounting in the ground and a display case. The display case is further comprised of a frame and a center display. The frame comprises three pieces situated on the bottom, left and right of the display case. Each piece includes a groove along an interior surface. Adapted to fit within the groove are two components of the center display: a transparent face and a print. A backing member is adapted to be disposed on the back of the frame pieces. |
| US09284744B2 |
Modular concrete pole base
A pole base provides a secure mounting structure that can easily be adapted for use with multiple configurations of poles. The pole base may include a body having an upper portion and a pole attachment device disposed on or within the upper portion of the body. The pole attachment device may be a plate configured to removeably receive a plurality of fasteners such that each of the plurality of fasteners may be received in the separate plate in a plurality of locations. Alternatively, the pole attachment device may be a plurality of recesses formed within the upper portion of the body. |
| US09284740B2 |
Mortar peeling method
[Problem]A mortar peeling method which can keep a sound generated during a peeling work to an allowable quiet sound and can peel a mortar off a concrete framework smoothly.[Solution]In a mortar peeling method, by gradually extending a piston rod 42 of a hydraulic jack 13 in a mortar peeling device 10A forward in one direction, a cutter 14 is gradually advanced forward in one direction so as to execute a mortar peeling process of peeling a mortar 21 with a predetermined thickness off a concrete framework 20 by using the cutter 14. In the mortar peeling method, after the piston rod 42 of the hydraulic jack 13 is extended forward in one direction and the mortar 21 is peeled, by retreating the piston rod 42 rearward in one direction, a session of the mortar peeling process is completed. |
| US09284739B2 |
Apparatus and method for repairing a steel door frame
An apparatus and method for repairing a damaged door frame, wherein a jamb patch has a first portion adaptable to replace a removed section of the door frame and a second portion coupled to the first portion and adaptable to fit behind a remaining section of the door frame to align the first portion with the remaining section of the door frame. The second portion of the jamb patch may be slidably coupled to the first portion for location into a first position, wherein the first portion of the jamb patch overlaps the second portion, and into a second position, wherein the second portion of the jamb patch extends from the first portion. Alternatively, the second portion of the jamb patch may fixedly extend from the first portion of the jamb patch. |
| US09284738B2 |
Plug assembly and a method for sealing a hole
A dual stage plug assembly 10 which provides a first sealing stage which is cooperatively provided by the insertion members 12, 14 (including the unexpanded portion 24) and a second sealing stage which is provided by selectively expandable member 24. The plug assembly 10 is selectively inserted into a hole, such as hole 80, which is formed in a tangible entity, such as basement wall 82, and the members 12 and 14 cooperates with member 24 to seal the hole 80, thereby preventing water and/or other liquid from entering and passing through the hole 80. |
| US09284735B2 |
Debris repelling filtering device for roof gutters
A gutter filtering device constructed to be mounted on top of a gutter opening and to extend from the front to the rear, and to attach to the front lip of the gutter. The gutter filtering device comprises a main body frame portion supporting a filtering media, a front mounting portion and a rear wing mounting portion. The main body frame portion is comprised of louvers that supports and holds a filtering media. The front mounting portion comprises a bending of the main body frame that folds over and crimps to the front end of the filtering media. The rear mounting portion comprises a separate rear wing folded over and crimpled to rear portion of the main body frame. The filtering media's top surface is shaped with many front to rear raised ridges in an repeating S-shape pattern that are parallel and form a consistent pattern from left to right. |
| US09284726B2 |
Pyramid waffle core structure and method of fabrication
A structural core and associated method of forming such structure is disclosed. The structure includes a single layer of at least two rows of hollow pyramid-like structures. The hollow pyramid-like structures dampen acoustic noise and provide a truss-like structure that provides a high level of stiffness against transverse loads, shear stresses and side-loading. The hollow pyramid-like structures preferably have upward facing and downward facing open bases, and are formed in rows and columns. To aid in sound attenuation, the single layer is formed from a partially porous material, a woven thermoplastic, woven carbon fiber, fiberglass and paper. To provide additional structural integrity, the single layer is formed from a solid non-porous material such as a metal. The structural core may be included within outer panels to form acoustical or structural panels. |
| US09284723B2 |
Magnetic docking faucet
A faucet includes a spout and a sprayhead movable between a docked position, in which the sprayhead is in contact with the spout, and an undocked position, in which the sprayhead is spaced apart from the spout. The faucet also includes a hose that includes a tubular portion having an inlet end and an outlet end and configured to provide fluid through the spout to the sprayhead and a magnetically responsive end portion coupled to the outlet end and configured to be freely and rotatably received within a portion of the sprayhead. A magnet is located in the spout such that when the sprayhead is in the docked position, the magnet magnetically attracts the magnetically responsive end portion of the hose so as to retain the sprayhead against the spout. |
| US09284722B2 |
Selective extraction of fluids from subsurface wells
A method for reducing the extent of treatment required for groundwater comprises the steps of (A) determining one of groundwater (1) flow, and (2) chemistry within at least one of a plurality of fluid zones within a subsurface well having a primary pump positioned at least partially therein; (B) modifying fluid dynamics within the subsurface well based on at least one of the groundwater flow and chemistry; (C) selectively extracting groundwater from at least one of the plurality of fluid zones with the primary pump; and (D) removing one or more contaminants from the groundwater with a fluid treatment system. Additionally, the step of determining can include the use of miniaturized technologies, such as miniaturized flow profiling technologies, miniaturized water sampling technologies and miniaturized sensors. |
| US09284721B2 |
Fluid flow control system
A fluid flow control system has a heating device for heating a fluid and a first flow path for providing the heated fluid from the heating device to a use region. A heat exchanger has a supply path that received fluid from a fluid supply, and an outlet path that receives fluid from the use region, whereby the fluid in the supply path is pre-heated by the fluid in the outlet path. A second flow path provides pre-heated fluid from the supply path of the heat exchanger to the heating device. Modulating devices control fluid flow through the outlet path along the supply path. A flow control device controls the modulating devices such that the fluid flow rates in the fluid supply path and outlet path of the heat exchanger are balanced, so as to be substantially the same. |
| US09284718B2 |
Power regeneration device for operating machine
A power regeneration device for an operating machine has a hydraulic cylinder and a return line through which fluid returning to a tank flows when the hydraulic cylinder contracts. The return line branches into a plurality of hydraulic lines through a branching part and includes a regeneration line that which leads returning fluid to the tank via a hydraulic motor to which a generator is connected. A control valve line is connected to the branching part and leads the returning fluid to the tank via a control valve. An electricity storage device stores electric power generated by the generator, and an electric amount detector detects the electric amount of the electricity storage device. A flow rate calculator calculates the flow rate of the returning fluid flowing through the regeneration line and the flow rate of the returning fluid flowing through the control valve line depending on an electric amount signal. |
| US09284710B2 |
Prefabricated concrete pole base and adjustable connector
A prefabricated concrete pole base and adjustable method of connection and use to receive, support, and stabilize light poles and the like having different hole mounting patterns, securing the pole to the base and facilitating rapid installation of poles while eliminating the need for on-site concrete forms and lengthy concrete cure times. |
| US09284706B2 |
Offshore system comprising a rig and a cantilever
An offshore system with a rig and a cantilever having a rigid cantilever structure with an operational end. The rig is provided with a first support rail which extends along a side of the deck supporting structure. Travelling and swivelling assemblies are arranged between the first support rail and the cantilever beams. The rig is provided with one or more second support rails that extend over the deck in a direction transverse to the first support rail. The system has a cantilever inner end carrier device travels over and engages on said one or more second support rails. This device is connected via a vertical pivot axis swivel to a connector part of the rigid cantilever structure at or near its inner end to provide a rotation axis at a fixed location relative to the structure for the rotational motion of the cantilever, the cantilever inner end carrier device holding the cantilever inner end relative to the deck. |
| US09284705B2 |
Oil—water separator
A separator is disclosed that may be used to separate oil from water in situ in the ocean or other water body. The difference in density between oil and water causes them to separate between two limbs of the apparatus, and to exit from different ports at different heights. The input may contain oil:water in essentially any ratio. The apparatus may be placed within a boat or ship, or it may be mounted on pontoons or other floatation gear and towed behind a boat or ship. |
| US09284703B2 |
Spreader unit for de-icing material and respective vehicle
A spreader unit for a de-icing substance to clear a road or pedestrian surface, comprises a hopper containing the de-icing substance, a spreader device that receives the de-icing substance from the hopper spreading the latter on the road or pedestrian surface, a carrying device to convey the de-icing substance of the hopper to the spreader device, a rechargeable battery to power the carrying device and an electric mechanical converter for charging the rechargeable battery transforming mechanical power. |
| US09284695B2 |
Protective pad assembly for use with motorized compactor
A pad for use with a compactor having a planar plate for protecting material to be protected. The pad includes a rigid planar surface adapted to maintain a co-planar relationship with the plate of the compactor during the operation of the compactor. The pad is adapted to be affixed to the compactor by clamps and other mechanical devices. |
| US09284693B2 |
Apparatus and related methods of paving a subsurface
Disclosed may be an intermediate surface for supporting a small paver, wherein the surface can also be used to exchange heat with the pavers. In one embodiment, the apparatus may be a hextray defined by a frame with a hexagonal lattice for supporting pavers. The hextray preferably features a tubing track throughout the lattice to accommodate heat exchange tubing. In operation the hextray may be positioned above a pedestal or directly on a subsurface. In embodiment, the hex tray may be outfitted with insulation and a metal plate so that heat may be exchanged with pedestals via fluid passing through tubing installed throughout the hexagonal lattice. In a preferred embodiment, the hextray features a slot in its corners for receiving a locking disk or locking slider. |
| US09284692B2 |
Switch monitoring and railway line management
The present invention relates to a switch monitoring method and a switch monitoring system, a railway line management method and a railway line management system. Electric signal of a switch motor during pulling of the switch can effectively reflect status of the switch, when the switch is in a stable state, electric signal of its motor is very steady during pulling of the switch; however, when the switch is in an unstable state, there will be different degrees of fluctuation in electric signal of its motor during pulling of the switch. Thus, the invention may be used to identify state of a switch by monitoring electric signal of a switch motor, and further take different measures based on different states of the switch. With these measures, accidents due to switch failure may be effectively reduced, and train delay time may also be reduced through proper line management. |
| US09284691B2 |
Paper pulping process and composition
This is a method and composition for a paper pulp product used to create formable or moldable products from the paper pulp that cures with significant rigidity, stability and strength. The composition includes a mixture of raw paper, calcium carbonate (marble dust), starch, polyvinyl alcohol and water. Bleach may be added to create a substantially white or neutral product. The pulp composition is particularly suitable to molding and can be used to manufacture picture frames, small items of furniture and the like. The resulting product is highly suitable to art paper, arts and crafts. The process is extremely easy and results in a product that is highly adaptable for numerous uses. |
| US09284690B2 |
Water- and oil-repellent agent
A water- and oil-repellent agent is produced by blending a fluorine-containing polymer and a fluorine-free polymer, wherein the fluorine-free polymer is 30-70% by weight of the total of the water- and oil-repellent agent, the fluorine-containing polymer is polymerized by a fluorine-containing monomer, a non-fluorinated branched monomer, a non-fluorinated crosslinking monomer, and an olefin monomer, and wherein the fluorine-containing monomer, the non-fluorinated branched monomer, the non-fluorinated crosslinking monomer, and the olefin monomer are 45-80%, 1-30%, 1-10%, and 10-50% by weight of the total of the fluorine-containing polymer respectively- and the fluorine-free polymer is polymerized by a non-fluorinated non-crosslinking monomer, a non-fluorinated crosslinking monomer, and an olefin monomer, wherein the non-fluorinated non-crosslinking monomer, the non-fluorinated crosslinking monomer, and the olefin monomer are 45-80%, 1-30%, and 10-50% by weight of the total of the fluorine-free polymer respectively whereby, the agent reduces adhesion on a roller, and reduces environmental impact due to reduced fluorine usage. |
| US09284688B2 |
Copolymer latex and composition containing the same and application product therof
To provide a copolymer latex having a small particle size, which has a sufficient adhesion strength as a binder and a low viscosity and excellent handling properties in a composition containing a filler and the like, a composition for coating paper using the copolymer latex, and a coated paper having a coating layer formed by the composition.A copolymer latex contains a copolymer comprising: (A) 20 to 80% by mass of a structural unit derived from an aliphatic conjugated diene monomer, (B) 4 to 15% by mass of a structural unit derived from an unsaturated carboxylic acid monomer, and (C) 5 to 76% by mass of a structural unit derived from other copolymerizable monomer, wherein the total of (A), (B) and (C) being 100% by mass, and has a number average particle size of 30 to 80 nm by measurement with a transmission electron microscope, and has a viscosity of 50 to 400 mPa·s at a solid content of 48% by mass. |
| US09284682B2 |
Fabric having ultraviolet radiation protection
A method for treating a fabric for ultraviolet radiation protection is disclosed which comprises the steps of adding zinc oxide nanoparticles to a solution of 3-glycidyloxypropyl-trimethoxysilane, adding silicon dioxide to the mixture of zinc oxide nanoparticles and 3-glycidyloxypropyl-trimethoxysilane, placing a fabric in the mixture of zinc oxide nanoparticles, 3-glycidyloxypropyl-trimethoxysilane, and silicon dioxide, curing the fabric, and washing the fabric. |
| US09284681B1 |
Adjustable iron holder with removable drain receptacle
An adjustable iron holder having an outer housing with a pivoting iron holding plate for storing a steam iron in either a toe down or toe up position that is adjustable relative to a vertical axis for optimal draining, and a removable drain receptacle for collecting water drained from the iron or which may leak from the iron to reduce the formation of mineral deposits and/or rust in or on the iron. The iron holder may be provided with a removable ironing board bracket that supports a folded ironing board. A removable water cup may be provided on one side wall of the outer housing for containing a supply of water to be used by the steam iron, and a removable accessory storage cup may be provided on the opposed side wall for holding the cord of the iron or miscellaneous small items. |
| US09284680B2 |
Shirts press finishing machine and sheet material for used shirts press finishing machine
A shirt press finishing machine has a torso for carrying a shirt and a pair of front part and rear part side press irons. Iron receiving surfaces of the front and rear parts of the torso are covered with cushioning sheet materials and long and thin bags expanded by gas are attached to both sides of the front and rear sheet materials over substantially the entire longitudinal length of the sheet materials. |
| US09284676B2 |
Drum type washing machine
Disclosed herein is a drum type washing machine including a body, a tub arranged in the body, and a drum rotatably installed in the tub, and an inner surface of a rear wall of the has a flat portion along a rotating direction of the drum. |
| US09284675B2 |
Method for washing and washing machine
A method for washing laundry and a washing machine, in which balancing of the laundry load is effectively carried out. The method for washing includes supplying wash water mixed with a detergent, spinning or rinsing the laundry by rotating the washing machine drum in which the laundry is located, thereby causing the laundry to be repeatedly lifted within and then fall towards the bottom of the drum. The method further involves balancing the laundry by repeatedly accelerating and decelerating the drum. The wash water is then drained. |
| US09284672B2 |
Laundry treating appliance with tub and basket having matched characteristics
A laundry treating appliance may include a tub and a basket located at least partially within the tub and at least partially defining a laundry treating chamber. A drive system may operatively couple the tub to the basket and may be operative to rotate the basket about a rotational axis. The tub and the basket may each have a base with an effective stiffness, and the effective stiffnesses may be matched. |
| US09284664B2 |
Polyoxymethylene fibers in concrete
Disclosed are polymeric additives for concrete formed of a polyoxymethylene (POM) copolymer, POM copolymers can be utilized to form fibrous additives for concrete, i.e., microfibers and/or macrofibers. The POM copolymers can include one or more chemical groups, e.g., end groups and/or pendant groups that can increase the polarity of the POM and increase the hydrophilicity of the formed fibers, which can improve miscibility of the fibers in wet concrete. Chemical groups of the POM copolymers can bond with components of the concrete or can hydrolyze to form groups that can bond with components of the concrete, e.g., form covalent or noncovalent (e.g., electrostatic or ionic) bonds with one or more components of the concrete binder. |
| US09284662B2 |
Soybean based fibers
Fibers can be formed from monomers derived from a biorenewable source. In an embodiment, a fiber forming composition that includes a monomer or mixture of monomers with at least one monomer being derived from a biorenewable source in placed in a fiber producing device. At least a portion of the fiber forming composition is ejected through an opening of the fiber forming device. The ejected fiber forming composition is subjected to light at wavelengths sufficient to activate a reaction which causes solidification of the fiber as the fibers are ejected from the fiber producing device. |
| US09284655B2 |
Method of producing a steel component provided with a metallic coating giving protection against corrosion
A method by which a steel component can be produced, which is provided with a metallic coating which adheres well and which provides protection against corrosion, from a flat steel product produced from a steel material containing 0.3-3 wt.-% manganese and having a yield point of 150-1100 MPa and a tensile strength of 300-1200 MPa coated with an anti-corrosion coating which comprises a coating of ZnNi alloy which is electrolytically deposited on the flat steel product, which coating is composed in a single phase of γ-ZnNi phase and which contains, as well as zinc and unavoidable impurities, 7-15 wt.-% nickel. |
| US09284654B2 |
Process for fabricating a monolayer or multilayer metal structure in LIGA technology, and structure obtained
The invention relates to a process for fabricating a monolayer or multilayer metal structure in LIGA technology, in which a photoresist layer is deposited on a flat metal substrate, a photoresist mold is created by irradiation or electron or ion bombardment, a metal or alloy is electroplated in this mold, the electroformed metal structure is detached from the substrate and the photoresist is separated from this metal structure, wherein the metal substrate is used as an agent involved in the forming of at least one surface of the metal structure other than that formed by the plane surface of the substrate. |
| US09284653B2 |
Fine bubble electrolyzed water generating apparatus and method for generating fine bubble electrolyzed water
Electrolyzed water containing chlorine gas and hydrogen gas is provided, wherein the electrolyzed water has improved storage stability and provides satisfactory cleaning efficiency. In a fine bubble electrolyzed water generating apparatus and a method for generating fine bubble electrolyzed water, an electrolytic apparatus having a three-chamber structure is provided including an anode chamber with an anode electrode, a cathode chamber with a cathode electrode, an intermediate chamber, and diaphragms and provided between the intermediate chamber and each of the anode chamber and the cathode chamber. An acidic electrolyzed water storage tank and an alkaline electrolyzed water storage tank ii are provided adjacent to the apparatus. The respective storage tanks are in communication with the anode chamber and the cathode chamber through pipes. The respective storage tanks are in communication with nanobubble generators. The generators generate chlorine gas and nanobubble electrolyzed water with chlorine gas and acidic electrolyzed water produced in the anode chamber and generate hydrogen nanobubble electrolyzed water with hydrogen gas and alkaline electrolyzed water produced in the cathode chamber. |
| US09284644B2 |
Apparatus and method for improving wafer uniformity
A semiconductor processing gas flow manifold is provided that allows for the gas flow characteristics of the manifold gas flow paths to be individually adjusted outside of a semiconductor processing chamber. The gas flow manifold may be connected to a process gas dispersion device inside the semiconductor processing chamber. The process gas dispersion device may have multiple gas flow channels, each channel separately connected to a manifold gas flow path and targeted at a region on the semiconductor wafer. The adjustment of the individual manifold gas flow paths may vary the amount of process gas dispersed through each process gas dispersion gas flow channel onto the corresponding region of the semiconductor wafer. |
| US09284641B2 |
Processing device for producing semiconductor layers and coated substrates treated with elemental selenium and/or sulphur
A processing device for producing semiconductor layers and coated substrates treated with elemental selenium and/or sulphur includes an evacuable processing chamber for receiving a substrate to be processed. The substrate has a metal layer and/or a layer containing metal. A heating device provides convective heating of the substrate to a predetermined temperature. A first source of elementary selenium and/or sulphur vapor is located outside the processing chamber and connected to the processing chamber via a first feed line and/or a second source of elementary selenium and/or sulphur vapor is located inside the processing chamber. The elementary selenium and/or sulphur vapor is guided past the metal layer and/or layer containing metal, chemically reacting said layer with selenium or sulphur in a targeted manner. The substrate is heated and the elementary selenium and/or sulphur vapor is mixed and guided past the substrate by forced convection of a gas conveying device. |
| US09284639B2 |
Method for alkali doping of thin film photovoltaic materials
An alkali-containing transition metal sputtering target, the method of making the same, and the method of manufacturing a solar cell using the same. |
| US09284638B2 |
Method of fabricating mask assembly
A mask assembly, a deposition apparatus for flat panel displays including the same, and associated methods, the mask assembly including an open mask having a plurality of first openings, and a pattern mask coupled to the open mask, the pattern mask having a plurality of second openings disposed within an area bounded by the first openings, wherein the open mask is formed of a material having a thermal expansion coefficient that is lower than a thermal expansion coefficient of the pattern mask. |
| US09284637B2 |
Implantable graft and methods of making same
The present invention relates to an implantable endoluminal graft having a microporous thin-film covering with a plurality of openings and a structural support element underlying and physically attached to the microporous thin-film covering, the microporous thin-film covering having shape memory properties. |
| US09284630B2 |
Negative active material including Si active metal grains and Cu—Al metal matrix surrounding Si active metal grains and rechargeable lithium battery including negative active material
A negative active material for a rechargeable lithium battery and a rechargeable lithium battery including the negative active material have a negative active material including either Si or Sn active metal grains and a metal matrix composed of at least two metal elements that surrounds the active metal grains but does not react therewith. |
| US09284622B2 |
Device and method for removing impurities in aluminum melt
A device and a method for removing impurities in an aluminum melt are provided, in which the device includes an upper furnace body, a lower furnace body, an intermediate partition plate, a crucible, heating elements and a charging opening. The intermediate partition plate is mounted between the upper furnace body and the lower furnace body. The upper furnace body, a mixing chamber and a heating element are above the intermediate partition plate. The crucible is mounted in the lower furnace body. A heating element is provided around the lower furnace body. The mixing chamber and the crucible are connected by a jet pipe passing through the intermediate partition plate. For the device and the method, impurity removal is quick, efficiency is high and the process is closed, so there is no environmental pollution, and the aluminum melt after impurity removal may be directly cast. |
| US09284621B2 |
Processing of sulfate and/or sulfide-rich waste using CO2-enriched gases to sequester CO2, reduce environmental impacts including acid rock drainage and produce reaction products
A process is provided for stabilizing a sulfate and/or sulfide-rich waste material, comprising metal sulfide minerals, and sequestering CO2 comprises exposing the material to a CO2-enriched gas mixture, reacting the CO2-enriched gas mixture with the metal sulfide minerals and forming a CO2-depleted gas mixture and a carbon-containing compound and at least one product selected from the group consisting of a purified metal or a metal-rich compound suitable for smelting or refining, sulfuric acid, sulfur and sulfurous acid, and system and apparatus therefor. |
| US09284614B2 |
Pre-treatment method for plant biomass hydrolysis reaction raw materials and plant biomass saccharification method
The invention relates to: a pre-treatment method for plant biomass hydrolysis reaction raw materials characterized in comprising a process for mixing a solid catalyst and solid substrate beforehand and grinding same simultaneously (grinding process); a plant biomass hydrolysis reaction raw material pre-treated by said pre-treatment method; and a plant biomass saccharification method comprising a process for hydrolyzing said hydrolysis reaction raw material. The invention provides an efficient and practical pre-treatment method for plant biomass hydrolysis reaction raw materials that can improve the saccharification yield and saccharide concentration of plant biomass hydrolysis reactions, a plant biomass hydrolysis reaction raw material obtained therefrom, and a plant biomass saccharification method. |
| US09284609B2 |
Recurrent gene fusions in prostate cancer
Recurrent gene fusions of androgen regulated genes and ETS family member genes in prostate cancer are described. Compositions and methods having utility in prostate cancer diagnosis, research, and therapy are also provided. |
| US09284608B2 |
Sensor
A sequencer that measures a nucleic acid sequence in a nucleic acid strand includes: a base material having a surface made of silicon, and a fibrous protrusion that is made of silicon dioxide and is directly joined to the surface of the base material made of silicon, wherein a plurality of the nucleic acid strands are fixed onto the fibrous protrusion. |
| US09284607B2 |
Multiplex amplification and detection
The invention relates to the field of multiplex amplification. In particular, the invention relates to methods for assaying a sample for one or more nucleic acid targets in a single reaction based on the distinct melting temperatures or melting profiles of primers and/or probes. The invention also provides probes and kits for use in such methods. |
| US09284604B2 |
Methods of identifying a cellular nascent RNA transcript
Methods and compositions for identifying a cellular nascent RNA transcript are provided. |
| US09284600B2 |
Method for the synthesis of a bifunctional complex
Disclosed is a method for obtaining a bifunctional complex comprising a display molecule part and a coding part, wherein a nascent bifunctional complex comprising a chemical reaction site and a priming site for enzymatic addition of a tag is reacted at the chemical reaction site with one or more reactants, and provided with respective tag(s) identifying the reactant(s) at the priming site is using one or more enzymes. |
| US09284597B2 |
Methods to assay kinase activity
Methods and kits for enzymes involved in post-translational modifications are provided. The methods employ elemental analysis, including ICP-MS. The methods allow for the convenient and accurate analysis of post-translation modifications of substrates by enzymes involved in post-translational modifications, including kinase and phosphatase enyzmes. |
| US09284596B2 |
Methods for determining enzymatic activity comprising heating and agitation of closed volumes
Methods for determining thermophilic enzymatic activity include heating a substrate solution in a plurality of closed volumes to a predetermined reaction temperature. Without opening the closed volumes, at least one enzyme is added, substantially simultaneously, to the closed volumes. At the predetermined reaction temperature, the closed volumes are agitated and then the activity of the at least one enzyme is determined. The methods are conducive for characterizing enzymes of high-temperature reactions, with insoluble substrates, with substrates and enzymes that do not readily intermix, and with low volumes of substrate and enzyme. Systems for characterizing the enzymes are also disclosed. |
| US09284591B2 |
Use of molecular chaperones for the enhanced production of secreted, recombinant proteins in mammalian cells
The present invention relates to a method for increased production of a secreted, recombinant protein product through the introduction of molecular chaperones in a mammalian host cell. The present invention also relates to a mammalian host cell with enhanced expression of a secreted recombinant protein product by coexpressing at least one chaperone protein. |
| US09284589B2 |
Methods of obtaining a specific binding member that binds eotaxin
Specific binding members directed to eotaxin-1, in particular human antibodies and antibody fragments against human eotaxin-1 and especially those which neutralize eotaxin-1 activity. The antibodies VH and/or VL domain of the scFv fragment herein termed CAT-212 and of the IgG4 antibody herein termed CAT 213. One or more complementary determining regions (CDRs) of the CAT-212/-213 VH and/or VL domains, especially VH CRD3 in other antibody framework regions. Compositions containing specific binding members, and their use in methods of inhibiting or neutralizing eotaxin, including methods of treatment of the human or animal body by therapy. |
| US09284586B2 |
Bioprocessing
Bioreactors are provided that include a vessel and a jet mixer disposed in the vessel. Methods that utilize the bioreactors are provided, involving placing a microorganism or cells and a fluid medium in the bioreactor. |
| US09284579B2 |
Ethanol production in microorganisms
The present disclosure relates to methods and compositions for engineering photoautotrophic organisms to convert carbon dioxide and light into fatty acid esters and other molecules, including biofuels. The molecules are then secreted by the organism into a growth medium. |
| US09284569B2 |
Autoluminescent phytosensor plants and uses thereof
Real-time monitoring of plant or environmental conditions is solved by Autoluminescent Phytosensor Plants (ALPS) disclosed herein that emit light in response to a specified stimulus or condition, which light emission is detected or measured by a sensor. |
| US09284568B2 |
Methods for transforming eukaryotic algae
Compositions and methods for genetically modifying algae or other photosynthetic eukaryotes to express an alcohol producing enzyme, such as pyruvate decarboxylase (PDC) and alcohol dehydrogenase (ADH) or any other enzymes that also synthesizes methanol, ethanol or butanol are provided. These enzymes are engineered to contain chloroplast targeting sequences which efficiently target xenotypic proteins to the chloroplast. Algae can be stably transformed with the compositions comprising chloroplast targeting constructs containing alcohol producing enzymes whereby the alcohol is produced in the chloroplast of the organism. |
| US09284567B2 |
Method for gene introduction into hordeum plant using agrobacterium, and method for production of transformed plant of hordeum plant
An object of the present invention is to provide a method of gene introduction, which can transform a Hordeum plant at a higher efficiency compared to that in known Agrobacterium methods, and a method of producing a transformed Hordeum plant. The method of the invention includes a step of subjecting an immature embryo tissue of a Hordeum plant to centrifugation treatment and/or pressurization treatment before the inoculation with Agrobacterium, during the coculture step, and/or after the coculture step, and is characterized in that the coculture medium satisfies at least one of a) containing an antiauxin; b) containing a cytokinin; and c) containing a phenoxy auxin in an amount of less than 2 μM and/or a benzoic auxin in an amount of less than 5 μM, or not containing any phenoxy auxin and/or benzoic auxin. |
| US09284562B2 |
Biological circuit chemotactic converters
Described herein are novel biological circuit chemotactic converter that utilize modular components, such as genetic toggle switches and single invertase memory modules (SIMMs), for detecting and converting external inputs, such as chemoattractants, into outputs that allow for autonomous chemotaxis in cellular systems. Flexibility in these biological circuit chemotactic converter is provided by combining individual modular components, i.e., SIMMs and genetic toggle switches, together. These biological converter switches can be combined in a variety of network topologies to create network systems that regulate chemotactic responses based on the combination and nature of input signals received. |
| US09284561B2 |
Transformant and process for production thereof, and process for production of lactic acid
The present invention relates to a transformant, containing a lactate dehydrogenase gene which is introduced into Schizosaccharomyces pombe as a host, in which a part of a gene cluster encoding a pyruvate decarboxylase in the Schizosaccharomyces pombe host is deleted or inactivated. |
| US09284560B2 |
Application of highly conserved domain sequences from viral genome as template to design therapeutic sliRNAs
This invention relates to the application of the highly conserved sequences of viral genome, especially from a highly conserved domain of enteroviral genome as templates to design target small ligand RNAs (sliRNAs). The resulting sliRNAs are therapeutically active ingredients in the treatment of the related diseases caused by pathological angiogenesis. |
| US09284559B2 |
Multivalent aptamer complexes
A compound of the formula A-B-C, is provided, wherein: A is a first nucleic acid that specifically binds to an extracellular surface protein expressed by a cell of interest, B is an alkyl linker; and C is a second nucleic acid that hybridizes to a complementary nucleic acid. In some embodiments, the first nucleic acid is an aptamer. In some embodiments, the nucleic acid comprises an active compound, particularly cytotoxic nucleotides such as poly-FdUMP. Compositions and methods of using such compounds for treating and/or detecting cancer are also described. |
| US09284557B2 |
Double-stranded nucleic acid molecule, cancer cell proliferation inhibitor and pharmaceutical agent suitable for prevention or treatment of cancer
A double-stranded nucleic acid molecule including (a) a sense strand which includes a nucleotide sequence corresponding to a target sequence indicated by any one of SEQ ID Nos.: 1 to 21, and (b) an antisense strand which includes a nucleotide sequence complementary to that of the sense strand specified in (a), wherein the double-stranded nucleic acid molecule is for suppressing the expression of at least one of APP and EBAG9 genes. |
| US09284555B2 |
Aptazyme capable of selective silencing of target miRNA by releasing an antisense sequence in hepatitis C virus-infected cells and use thereof
The present invention relates to an aptazyme comprising an aptamer for hepatitis C virus (HCV) RNA-encoding component; a hammerhead ribozyme comprising an antisense sequence to microRNA at the site released by self-cleavage; and a communication module sequence that connects the aptamer and hammerhead ribozyme and triggers a self-cleavage activity of the hammerhead ribozyme upon binding of the aptamer with the HCV RNA-encoding component. The present aptazyme inhibits microRNA activity specifically in HCV proliferating cells and thus a composition of the present invention comprising the aptazyme can be effectively used for treatment of HCV-related diseases. |
| US09284553B2 |
Albumin production and cell proliferation
The present invention provides short activating RNA molecules which up-regulate albumin production. The present invention also provides methods of up-regulating albumin production, such methods involving the use of short activating RNA molecules capable of increasing the expression of albumin. The present invention also provides the use of the short activating RNA molecules in therapy, such as treating or preventing a hyperproliferative disorder and/or a disorder characterized by hypoalbuminemia. |
| US09284552B2 |
Modified cell lines for increasing lentiviral titers
The present disclosure provides a method of modifying cells in order to enhance lentiviral titers, cell lines that are modified and modifying reagents. By mediating individual genes and combination thereof, lentiviral titers may be increased. |
| US09284550B2 |
Single-stranded nucleic acid aptamers specifically binding to Klebsiella pneumoniae and method for detecting K. pneumonia using the same
Provided is a single-stranded nucleic acid aptamer specifically binding to Klebsiella pneumoniae, and a method for detecting Klebsiella pneumoniae by using the same. The aptamer of the present disclosure, and a method, a composition, a kit or a sensor of using the same may be used to specifically detect Klebsiella pneumoniae present in an aqueous environment, foods, and medical samples and also be applied in fields such as sanitary conditions of foods and medical diagnosis. |
| US09284546B2 |
Human cystathionine beta-synthase variants and methods of production thereof
Human cystathionine β-synthase variants are disclosed, as well as a method to produce recombinant human cystathionine β-synthase and variants thereof. More particularly, the role of both the N-terminal and C-terminal regions of human CBS has been studied, and a variety of truncation mutants and modified CBS homologues are described. In addition, a method to express and purify recombinant human cystathionine β-synthase (CBS) and variants thereof which have only one or two additional amino acid residues at the N-terminus are described. |
| US09284543B2 |
Neutral active soluble truncated PH20 polypeptides and uses thereof
Soluble PH20 polypeptides are provided, including extended soluble PH20 polypeptides, and uses thereof. Also provided are other C-terminally truncated PH20 polypeptides and partially deglycosylated PH20 polypeptides and uses thereof. |
| US09284542B2 |
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. |
| US09284541B2 |
Methods and compositions for protein labeling using lipoic acid ligases
The present disclosure provides compositions and methods of use thereof for labeling peptide and proteins in vitro or in vivo. The methods described herein employ lipoic acid ligase or mutants thereof, and lipoic acid analogs (e.g., lipoic acid analogs comprising a resorufin moiety) recognized by lipoic acid ligase and lipoic acid ligase mutants. Also provided herein is a method of imaging protein-protein interaction via a reaction mediated by lipoic acid ligase. |
| US09284540B2 |
Glucosyltransferase enzymes for production of glucan polymers
Reaction solutions are disclosed herein comprising water, sucrose and a glucosyltransferase enzyme that synthesizes poly alpha-1,3-glucan. The glucosyltransferase enzyme can synthesize insoluble glucan polymer having at least 50% alpha-1,3 glycosidic linkages and a number average degree of polymerization of at least 100. Further disclosed are methods of using such glucosyltransferase enzymes to produce insoluble poly alpha-1,3-glucan. |
| US09284539B2 |
Glucosyltransferase enzymes for production of glucan polymers
Reaction solutions are disclosed herein comprising water, sucrose and a glucosyltransferase enzyme that synthesizes poly alpha-1,3-glucan. The glucosyltransferase enzyme can synthesize insoluble glucan polymer having at least 50% alpha-1,3 glycosidic linkages and a number average degree of polymerization of at least 100. Further disclosed are methods of using such glucosyltransferase enzymes to produce insoluble poly alpha-1,3-glucan. |