| Document | Document Title |
|---|---|
| US09304562B2 |
Server rack system and power management method applicable thereto
A server rack system including a plurality of power supply units, a monitoring circuit, a rack management controller (RMC), and a plurality of server nodes is provided. The monitoring circuit is for monitoring the power supply units. The RMC is for monitoring the power supply units. When the monitoring circuit and/or the RMC finds that at least one of the power supply units failed to output a normal voltage, an operation status of the server nodes is lowered or at least one of the server nodes is forcibly shut down. |
| US09304558B2 |
Electronic apparatus
According to one embodiment, an electronic apparatus includes a first housing and a second housing. The first housing includes a first wall, a second wall opposite to the first wall, and a third wall between the first wall and the second wall. The third wall faces the second housing when the second housing is raised from the first housing. The third wall includes an outmost portion of the third wall in a direction from a fan toward the third wall, a first area obliquely extending between the outmost portion and the first wall and including a first opening, and the second area obliquely extending between the outmost portion and the second wall and including a second opening. |
| US09304556B2 |
Hard drive tray device
A hard drive tray device applied in a server is provided. The server includes a housing. The hard drive tray device includes a rail member and a tray. The rail member is disposed at the inner wall of the housing. The tray is slidably engaged with the rail member so as to slide between an expanded position and a closed position relative to the housing. The tray includes a base for carrying two storage devices. The base has a hollow portion. The storage devices are respectively located at two sides of the hollow portion. When the tray slides to the expanded position, one of the storage devices and at least a part of the hollow portion are located outside the housing. |
| US09304555B2 |
Magnetically coupling radio frequency antennas
The present disclosure is directed to a system and method for using magnetically coupled antennas to enhance receptivity and/or reading range of radio frequency (RF) transaction devices. In some implementations, a method for boosting RF signals includes wirelessly receiving an RF signal from a transaction terminal at a passive antenna. The passive antenna is magnetically coupled to the antenna of a transaction card. The transaction card is inserted in a mobile host device and configured to execute a payment application using user credentials in response to at least a transaction request and transmits at least one transaction response to the transaction terminal based, at least in part, on the executed transaction application and using the antenna either standalone or through the coupled antenna configuration. The RF signal is transmitted to the transaction card using the inductive coupling with the terminal. |
| US09304553B2 |
Convertible computing apparatus
A computing apparatus includes a first body having a keyboard, a second body having a display, and a support of which one end portion is connected to the first body through at least one first hinge unit and the other end portion is connected to the second body through at least one second hinge unit disposed in parallel to the first hinge unit. The first hinge unit is disposed to be spaced away from a rear end portion of the first body so that when the second body and the support are simultaneously rotated in a direction in which the second body and the support are spaced away from the first body, a rear end portion of the second body interferes with the rear end portion of the first body and the second body is rotated in a direction in which the second body is spaced away from the support. |
| US09304551B1 |
Computer with integrated piano keyboard
An apparatus is adapted to function as a laptop computer with an additional piano-style keyboard. The computer has disposed within the lower computer keyboard area a separate integrated piano keyboard. The piano keyboard of the apparatus is fully functional in conjunction with certain applications loaded to the laptop. |
| US09304546B2 |
Docking station and electronic apparatus
The disclosure discloses a docking station that includes a housing, a circuit board, a base end electrical connector, a screw, and a resilient member. The housing has a stud. The circuit board is supported on the stud and has a through hole. The through hole is aligned with and communicated with the stud. The base end electrical connector is disposed on the circuit board. The base end electrical connector and the stud are respectively located at two opposite sides of the circuit board. The screw is fastened to the stud via the through hole. The resilient member is sleeved onto the screw and located between the screw and the stud. The disclosure further discloses an electronic apparatus including the docking station. |
| US09304538B2 |
Display apparatus and associated method
An apparatus and a method are provided. The apparatus comprises: a display panel; a film extending across the display panel and beyond a periphery of the display panel; and a curved support configured to support the film outside the periphery of the display panel. |
| US09304536B2 |
Calibrated timeout interval on a configuration value, shared timer value, and shared calibration factor
A processor-implemented method for implementing a shared counter architecture is provided. The method may include receiving, by a worker thread, an application request; recording, by a common timer thread, a shared timer value and acquiring, by the worker thread, the shared timer value. The method may further include recording, by the common timer thread, a shared calibration factor; acquiring, by the worker thread, a configuration value corresponding to the application request and generating, by the worker thread, a calibrated timeout interval for the application request based on the shared calibration factor, the shared timer value, and the configuration value. The method may further include registering, by the worker thread, the calibrated timeout interval for the application request on a current timeout list; determining, by the common timer thread, a timeout occurrence for the application request based on the registered calibrated timeout interval; and releasing resources based on the timeout occurrence. |
| US09304532B2 |
Receiver circuit for correcting skew, semiconductor apparatus and system including the same
A receiver circuit includes a deserialization unit, a sampling clock control unit and a sampling clock generation unit. The deserialization unit is configured to receive sampling clock signals, sample a plurality of input data signals, and generate a plurality of internal data signals. The sampling clock control unit is configured to generate a delay control signal and a synchronization completion signal in response to the plurality of internal data signals and a first group of clock signals. The sampling clock generation unit delays the first group of clock signals and provides the delayed first group of clock signals as the sampling clock signals in response to the delay control signal, and provides a second group of clock signals having a phase leading by a predetermined amount with respect to the first group of clock signals, as the sampling clock signals in response to the synchronization completion signal. |
| US09304528B2 |
Reference voltage generator with op-amp buffer
A reference voltage circuit and method making same, the reference voltage circuit including: a first sub-circuit for generating first and second temperature-compensated voltages; a second sub-circuit configured to receive the first and second temperature-compensated voltages and generate first and second reference voltages based on the first and second temperature-compensated voltages, respectively; and a third sub-circuit configured to receive and change voltage levels of the first and second reference voltages, and output a third reference voltage. |
| US09304527B1 |
Apparatus for generating high dynamic range, high voltage source using low voltage transistors
The present disclosure provides a varying high voltage source implemented with low voltage domain electronic components that are less costly to manufacture. According to one aspect, the present disclosure provides a high voltage circuit apparatus comprising a pull up resistance module, a plurality of cascode cell stages, a first of the cascode cell stages being coupled to the pull up resistance module, a low voltage domain current sink module coupled to a last of the cascode cell stages, and a clamping voltage source coupled to the last of the cascode cell stages. The circuit apparatus is devoid of high-voltage transistor components. |
| US09304516B2 |
Flight control laws for vertical flight path
A flight control system and method for controlling the vertical flight path of an aircraft, the flight control system includes a stable decoupled model having a decoupled lateral equation of motion and a decoupled longitudinal equation of motion and a feedback command loop operably associated with the stable decoupled model. The feedback command loop includes a vertical flight path angle control law; an altitude control law; and a vertical speed control law. |
| US09304514B2 |
Method and device for guiding an aircraft during a low level flight
A calculation unit configured to define a safety corridor, whose width is increased compared with a nominal width, at least by one width of an escape trajectory with a spiral climb of the aircraft, wherein the safety corridor that is thus defined by the calculation unit is used by a construction unit for forming a flight trajectory for a low level flight of an aircraft. |
| US09304511B2 |
Sensor virtualization through cloud storage and retrieval mechanisms
Mechanisms are provided for virtualizing physical sensors and providing sensor data to a requestor using the virtualized physical sensors. The mechanisms obtain sensor data from a plurality of physical sensors and storing the sensor data in a virtual sensor storage system of the data processing system in at least one standardized format. A request from a requestor for a first type of sensor data is received which does not specify a particular physical sensor. A portion of the sensor data stored in the virtual sensor storage system is retrieved in response to receiving the request, the portion of sensor data corresponding to the type of sensor data requested in the request from the requestor. The retrieved portion of the sensor data is returned to the requestor in a format corresponding to a physical sensor configured to provide the requested type of sensor data. |
| US09304509B2 |
Monitoring liquid mixing systems and water based systems in pharmaceutical manufacturing
Methods of monitoring pharmaceutical manufacturing processes are disclosed herein. The methods described herein provide an ability to control and monitor pharmaceutical manufacturing processes (for example, liquid mixing systems and water based systems) and can ensure data and product integrity and ultimately minimize overall manufacturing cost. |
| US09304508B2 |
System and method for performing undo and redo operations during machining simulation
A method associates a cell in the composite adaptive distance field (cADF) with a machining instruction that changes a type of the cell or a type of a distance field in the cell in forming a composite surface of the workpiece to produce at least part of an association, and associates the distance field in the cell with the machining instruction changing the type of the distance field in forming the composite surface of the workpiece to produce at least part of the association. In response to receiving a command to undo a simulation of the machining to the intermediate machining instruction, a subset of cells and a subset of distance fields forming the composite surface of the workpiece at a time of the simulation by the intermediate machining instruction are identified using the association and the intermediate representation of the workpiece is determined using the subset of cells and the subset of distance fields. |
| US09304504B2 |
Servo controller for reducing interference between axes in machining
The servo controller of the present invention includes a first axis speed feedback obtaining unit, a second axis speed feedback obtaining unit configured to obtain an amount of speed feedback for a second axis synchronizing with a first axis, a speed conversion unit configured to convert an amount of speed feedback for the first axis by using a conversion coefficient, a speed difference calculating unit configured to calculate a speed difference between the converted amount of speed feedback for the first axis and the amount of speed feedback for the second axis, a torque correction calculating unit configured to calculate a torque correction value by using the speed difference, a second axis torque command correcting unit using the torque correction value, a torque correction value converting unit using the conversion coefficient, and a first axis torque command correcting unit using the converted torque correction value. |
| US09304501B2 |
Coordinated joint motion control system with position error correction
Disclosed are an articulated hydraulic machine supporting, control system and control method for same. The articulated hydraulic machine has an end effector for performing useful work. The control system is capable of controlling the end effector for automated movement along a preselected trajectory. The control system has a position error correction system to correct discrepancies between an actual end effector trajectory and a desired end effector trajectory. The correction system can employ one or more absolute position signals provided by one or more acceleration sensors supported by one or more movable machine elements. Good trajectory positioning and repeatability can be obtained. A two joystick controller system is enabled, which can in some cases facilitate the operator's task and enhance their work quality and productivity. |
| US09304493B2 |
Flexible escapement mechanism having a balance with no roller
A timepiece escapement mechanism, including a balance having no roller and an escape wheel, between which impulses are transmitted by a flexible, single-piece mechanism, connected by at least one flexible strip to a fixed structure or to the wheel. Oscillation is maintained by a balance spring ending in a balance spring stud which is mobile during operation, and which is guided by a flexible guide member with flexible strips, and whose center of rotation is coaxial to the balance, the balance spring stud receiving a pin which is mobile in a cam path of the wheel. During the oscillations, the balance spring stud is moved relative to its locking position under action of force exerted by the balance spring, and the pin maintains and regulates the oscillation. |
| US09304492B2 |
Scalable and tileable holographic displays
A holographic display system for generating a super hologram with full parallax in different fields of view in the horizontal and vertical directions. The display system includes assemblies or subsystems each adapted to combine holographic displays and coarse integral displays to produce or display a coarse integral hologram. The display system is adapted to combine such displays or display systems to add more detail or information. For example, the display system can be assembled as if it were made up of “holographic bricks” that can be stacked and combined to provide a unique image/output. Briefly, the display system described herein teaches techniques for combining coarse integral holographic (CIH) displays in a seamless and scalable manner, e.g., a display system where multiple spatial light modulators (SLMs) can be placed or provided behind coarse integral optics. |
| US09304484B2 |
Image forming apparatus with moving light exposure units
An image forming apparatus that forms an image on a recording medium includes an image-bearing-unit support member, a developing unit support member, a plurality of light exposure units, and a light-exposure-unit operating member. The image-bearing-unit support member is movable between the inside and the outside of the image forming apparatus while supporting a plurality of image bearing units which each include an image bearing member. The developing unit support member is movable independently of the image-bearing-unit support member. The plurality of light exposure units each cause a corresponding one of the image bearing members to be exposed to light so as to form an electrostatic latent image. The light-exposure-unit operating member moves the light exposure units relative to the developing unit support member. |
| US09304482B2 |
Image forming apparatus with detachable components
An image forming apparatus for forming an image on a recording material includes a drum cartridge including an image bearing member, a developing cartridge including a developing unit for developing the image formed on the image bearing member, and a cartridge mounting member to which the drum cartridge and the developing cartridge are detachably mountable. In addition, a transferring unit transfers a visualized image on the image bearing member onto the recording material fed along a feeding path, and an opening and closing cover is provided across the feeding path from the image bearing member. A path of removing the detachable developing cartridge is accessed by opening the opening and closing cover and extends across the feeding path so as to permit the developing cartridge to pass through the feeding path without removing the drum cartridge. |
| US09304478B2 |
Power supply apparatus and image forming apparatus
The power supply apparatus includes a first capacitor and a second capacitor that insulate a primary side and a secondary side of the power supply apparatus from each other. The power supply apparatus further includes an inductor, a first switch element connected to the inductor and to the first capacitor, and a second switch element connected to the inductor and to the second capacitor. The power supply apparatus controls the first switch element and the second switch element so that, when the first switch element is turned on, the second switch element is turned on. |
| US09304476B2 |
Image forming apparatus
An image forming apparatus includes a fixing portion for heating and fixing an unfixed image formed on a recording material, the fixing portion including a cylindrical film, a heater provided in an inside space of the film, a switch portion actuatable by heat from the heater, and a protection element for shutting off electric power supplied to the heater; a DC voltage source for generating a DC voltage from a commercial AC voltage source. The protection element is connected in a DC circuit operable by the DC voltage source, and when the switch portion is rendered off, the electric power supply to the heater is shut off. |
| US09304475B2 |
Systems and methods for remanufacturing imaging components
A drive gear for a generally cylindrical imaging component. The drive gear includes a body for engaging the generally cylindrical imaging component; a cylindrical shaft attached to the body, the cylindrical shaft having an end surface; and three prongs extending longitudinally outward from the end surface. Each prong may include an extension member extending perpendicular to the prongs and the cross-sectional area of the extension members may be less than the cross-sectional area of the prongs. |
| US09304473B1 |
Image forming apparatus and conveyance control method for image receiving medium
In accordance with an embodiment, an image forming apparatus comprises a conveyance roller and a register roller configured to convey an image receiving medium taken out from a paper feed cassette; a rotation detection device configured to detect the backward rotation of the conveyance roller; and a control section configured to stop the rotation of the conveyance roller to align the image receiving medium after the image receiving medium abuts against the register roller that is in a stopped state, restart the rotation of the register roller and the conveyance roller after the aligning process, and control to restart, when the conveyance roller rotates backward during the aligning process, the rotation of the register roller after the conveyance roller is rotated ahead. |
| US09304466B2 |
Image forming apparatus
In an image forming apparatus, a first abnormality detection portion detects an abnormality in a fixing portion based on a change rate of a temperature detected by a temperature detecting portion and a first reference change rate that is set in advance. A first temperature control portion performs a temperature control of a heat source by a first feedback control method based on the temperature detected by the temperature detecting portion. A second temperature control portion performs a temperature control of the heat source by a second feedback control method based on the temperature detected by the temperature detecting portion, the second feedback control method being smaller in temperature change rate than the first feedback control method. A detection prohibiting portion prohibits the abnormality detection by the first abnormality detection portion during the temperature control performed by the second temperature control portion. |
| US09304454B2 |
Fixing device and image forming apparatus incorporating same
An image forming apparatus includes a fixing member, a pressing member, heat generators, temperature detectors, a power source, and a heat controller. The heat generators include a first heat generator and second heat generators corresponding to an imaged area and a blank area, respectively, of a recording medium. The heat controller controls a power source according to data provided by the temperature detectors, such that a heating area of the fixing member heated by one of the second heat generators located adjacent to the first heat generator acquires a temperature of T1−ΔT, where T1 is a temperature corresponding to the imaged area higher than a temperature T2 corresponding to the blank area, and ΔT is a temperature lower than a difference between T1 and T2. The heat controller changes ΔT between when a first side thereof is printed upon duplex printing and upon single-sided printing. |
| US09304452B2 |
Fixing device and image forming apparatus
A fixing device includes a fixing member, a pressuring member, a separating member and a reciprocating mechanism. The fixing member is arranged rotatably around a rotation axis. The fixing member includes a passing region and a non-passing region. Through the passing region, a recording medium passes. The non-passing region is arranged outside the passing region. The pressuring member is arranged rotatably and configured to come into pressure contact with the fixing member so as to form a fixing nip. The separating member includes a separating plate and a contact piece. The separating plate is configured to face the passing region with an interval and separate the recording medium passing through the fixing nip from the passing region. The contact piece is configured to come into contact with the non-passing region. The reciprocating mechanism is configured to reciprocate the separating member along a direction of the rotation axis. |
| US09304448B2 |
Intermediate transfer members
An intermediate transfer member that contains a mixture of a polyimide, an optional conductive component, and a perfluoropolyether phosphate. |
| US09304447B2 |
Image forming apparatus
Image forming apparatus includes: main body casing having first and second side walls opposite to each other, and upper portion having opening; top cover swingably supported on the upper portion of the main body casing at a position near the second side wall and configured to openably close the opening; endless belt disposed below the top cover and having first end portion closer to the first side wall and second end portion closer to the second side wall; photoconductor drum disposed under the endless belt; development unit disposed under the photoconductor drum and configured to supply developer to the photoconductor drum; and fixing device disposed above the second end portion of the endless belt. The endless belt is configured to be swingable about axis of rotation provided near the second side wall such that the first end portion of the endless belt is swingable in an upper-lower direction. |
| US09304445B2 |
Developing roller, developing device, image forming apparatus, and manufacturing method of developing roller
A developing roller includes a roller main body disposed to face, without contact, an outer circumferential surface of an image carrier. The roller main body includes an aluminum oxide thin film and a resin coat layer, the aluminum oxide thin film being formed on an outer circumferential surface of a base body that is made of a metal including aluminum, the resin coat layer being formed on a surface of the aluminum oxide thin film that has been subjected to a predetermined heating process, the resin coat layer being made of a resin material and having electric conductivity. |
| US09304444B2 |
Cleaning unit, process cartridge and image forming apparatus
A cleaning unit for an image forming apparatus includes a frame; a cleaning blade; a first seal sealing between the frame and the blade, provided by injection molding into the frame adjacent to an axial end; and a second seal between the frame and the drum, provided opposing to the free end portion adjacent to the axial end portion, and the second seal having a L-like configuration with projection extending in a direction crossing with the axial direction outwardly beyond an end surface of the blade, wherein the first seal includes a base portion provided at a position inside of the end surface and extending in the crossing direction and an extension extending from the base portion in the axial direction, the extension having a free end portion compressed by the projection to seal between the projection and the frame. |
| US09304442B2 |
Developing device and image forming apparatus including this
A developing device includes a case, an agitating member, a moving mechanism and a detecting device. The case contains a developer inside. The agitating member is rotated in the case to agitate the developer while conveying the developer in a rotation axis direction. The moving mechanism reciprocates the agitating member in the rotation axis direction in accordance with the rotation of the agitating member. The detecting device detects a developer amount contained in the case. |
| US09304440B2 |
Developer accommodating unit, process cartridge and electrophotographic image forming apparatus
A developer accommodating unit includes: a flexible container including an opening for permitting discharge of a developer; a sealing member for forming a bonding portion between itself and the flexible container; an unsealing member; and an accommodating container. The bonding portion includes a first bonding portion extending in a longitudinal direction of the sealing member at a periphery of the opening in an upstream side of a peeling direction of the sealing member, a second bonding portion extending in the longitudinal direction at the periphery of the opening in a downstream side of the peeling direction, and a third bonding portion bonded upstream of the first bonding portion with respect to the peeling direction. When the sealing member exposes the opening, the bonding portion is peeled in the order of the third bonding portion, the first bonding portion and the second bonding portion. |
| US09304434B2 |
Developing device and image forming apparatus including same
A developing device of the present disclosure includes a magnetic roller and a developing roller arranged so as to oppose the magnetic roller. Inside the magnetic roller, a regulation pole and a conveyance pole are provided. The regulation pole is turned toward an opposing surface side of an end portion of a regulation blade provided in a developer container. The regulation pole and the conveyance pole are arranged such that in magnetic fields formed by these magnetic poles, a point where no magnetic pole perpendicular to a surface of the magnetic roller is generated is located in a gap between the surface of the magnetic roller and the regulation blade. |
| US09304433B1 |
Developing device, image forming apparatus
In a developing device, a developing coating layer of each of a plurality of developing rollers has been formed by a dipping method in which a developing base body is dipped in a liquid in a state where the developing base body is in a vertical attitude such that a first end of the developing base body faces down and a second end of the developing base body faces up. The plurality of developing rollers are arranged from an upstream side to a downstream side in a rotation direction of an image-carrying member in such a manner that directions faced by the first end and the second end of each of the plurality of developing rollers are alternately reversed. |
| US09304421B2 |
Electrostatic latent image developing toner
An electrostatic latent image developing toner includes a toner base particle which contains at least a binder resin, and has a domain-matrix structure, in which a matrix contains a styrene-acrylic resin, a domain contains an amorphous resin which is formed by combining a vinyl-based polymerized segment and a polyester-based polymerized segment, and the domain containing the amorphous resin and having a diameter of 100 nm or larger has a number-average domain diameter which falls in the range from 150 to 1000 nm. |
| US09304419B2 |
Electrostatic charge image developing toner, electrostatic charge image developer, toner cartridge, and process cartridge
An electrostatic charge image developing toner has toner particles that contain a binder resin containing a polyester resin, a release agent containing hydrocarbon-based wax, styrene(meth)acrylic resin particles, and an aluminum element, wherein fluorescent X-ray NET intensity of the aluminum element existing in the toner particles is from 0.1 to 0.3, and 70% or more of the release agent among the entire release agent exists within 800 nm from the surface of the toner particles. |
| US09304415B2 |
Coating liquid dispensers
A coating system includes a leveling element and a dispenser assembly. The leveling element extends generally transverse to a substrate advance orientation and is releasably engageable against a substrate support. The dispenser assembly includes an array of side-by-side independent liquid dispensers and an air pressure assembly to supply a common air pressure to each dispenser to cause pressurized dispensing of a coating liquid from each dispenser onto a substrate on the substrate support. The liquid dispensing occurs at least during relative movement between the dispenser assembly and the substrate support and during the relative movement, the leveling element is actuated to uniformize the coating liquid on the substrate. |
| US09304409B2 |
Liquid jet and recovery system for immersion lithography
A liquid immersion lithography apparatus includes a projection system, an opening from which liquid is supplied to a space under the projection system, the opening being connectable to a liquid source via a flow passage to supply the liquid to the space and the opening being connectable to a vacuum source via the flow passage, and a holding member by which a substrate is held, the holding member being movable below the projection system and the opening. The substrate held by the holding member is exposed through the liquid that is supplied from the opening and that covers only a portion of an upper surface of the substrate. |
| US09304407B2 |
Catoptric objectives and systems using catoptric objectives
In general, in one aspect, the invention features an objective arranged to image radiation from an object plane to an image plane, including a plurality of elements arranged to direct the radiation from the object plane to the image plane, wherein the objective has an image side numerical aperture of more than 0.55 and a maximum image side field dimension of more than 1 mm, and the objective is a catoptric objective. |
| US09304402B2 |
Light exposure apparatus and method of controlling the same
The present invention relates to a method of controlling a light exposure apparatus including an exposure beam generator equipped with a prism or a bend mirror and a vacuum chamber through which light generated in the exposure beam generator passes. The method includes, generating an exposure beam; measuring a deviation of a center of the exposure beam from a reference line in the vacuum chamber; and adjusting the prism or the bend mirror in the exposure beam generator to adjust the center of the exposure beam when the center of the exposure beam is misaligned with the reference line. |
| US09304401B2 |
Measurement of the position of a radiation beam spot in lithography
A radiation spot measurement system for a lithographic apparatus, the system having a target onto which a radiation system of the lithographic apparatus may project spots of radiation for a measurement process, the target having a measurement target. The system further includes a radiation detector to detect radiation from one of the spots, and a controller to receive information from the radiation detector and to determine the position of the spot of radiation relative to an intended position of the spot of radiation. |
| US09304400B2 |
Illumination system for EUV microlithography
An illumination system for EUV microlithography includes an EUV light source which generates EUV illumination light with an etendue that is higher than 0.01 mm2. The EUV light source generates a sequence of EUV light pulses having a pulse sequence frequency. An illumination optics of the illumination system is used to guide the illumination light from the light source to an object field. At least one optical modulation component of the illumination system is preferably modulatable synchronously with the pulse sequence frequency. The result is an illumination system where a homogeneity of an object field illumination is improved. |
| US09304399B2 |
Resist composition and method for producing semiconductor device
A resist composition includes: a crosslinking material that is crosslinked in the presence of an acid; an acid amplifier; and a solvent. |
| US09304397B2 |
Method for manufacturing of organic light emitting display device
Disclosed is a method of manufacturing an organic light emitting display device. The method include forming a driving thin film transistor and passivation layer on a substrate, forming a bank layer at a boundary portion between adjacent sub-pixels, on the passivation layer, laminating a first photoresist film on the bank layer, forming a first photoresist pattern by irradiating IR light on the first photoresist film in an area except a first sub-pixel, depositing a first organic emission layer in the first sub-pixel area exposed by the first photoresist pattern, removing the first photoresist pattern, laminating a second photoresist film on the bank layer, forming a second photoresist pattern by irradiating IR light on the second photoresist film in an area except a second sub-pixel, depositing a second organic emission layer in the second sub-pixel area exposed by the second photoresist pattern, and removing the second photoresist pattern. |
| US09304395B2 |
Conductive element precursor and conductive pattern formation
A black-and-white silver halide conductive film element precursor has at least one first non-color hydrophilic photosensitive layer comprising a silver halide and a first hydrophilic overcoat disposed over the first non-color hydrophilic photosensitive layer. This first hydrophilic overcoat is the outermost layer and contains one or more immobilized radiation absorbers such as immobilized ultraviolet radiation absorbers, in a total amount of at least 5 mg/m2. These precursors can be imagewise exposed and processed to provide conductive film elements with various conductive silver patterns (or grids) with narrow conductive silver lines on one or both sides. In many instances, the precursors have the same or different layers on both sides of a transparent substrate and the resulting conductive film element has the same or different conductive silver patterns on both sides. |
| US09304392B2 |
Exposure apparatus and method for producing device
A liquid immersion exposure apparatus comprising: a projection system, a stage system having a holder that holds a substrate, a supply port that is arranged such that an upper surface of the substrate faces the supply port, and a recovery port that is arranged to surround the supply port and collects an immersion liquid from the upper surface of the substrate such that only a portion of the upper surface of the substrate is covered with the immersion liquid. The apparatus also comprises an alignment system which detects an alignment mark of the substrate not through the immersion liquid. The substrate held on the holder is positioned based on a detection result of the alignment system to align the substrate with an exposure light projected through the immersion liquid by the projection system. |
| US09304390B2 |
Extreme ultraviolet lithography process and mask
A system and process of an extreme ultraviolet lithography (EUVL) is disclosed. The system and process includes receiving a mask with two states, which have 180 degree phase difference to each other. These different states are assigned to adjacent main polygons and adjacent assist polygons of the mask. A nearly on-axis illumination (ONI) with partial coherence σ less than 0.3 is utilized to expose the mask to produce diffracted lights and non-diffracted lights. A majority portion of the non-diffracted lights and diffracted light with diffraction order higher than 1 are removed. Diffracted light having +1-st and −1-st diffracted order are collected and directed by a projection optics box (POB) to expose a target. |
| US09304387B2 |
Device for directional light field 3D display and method thereof
A three-dimensional (3D) display device and method using a directional light field is provided. The 3D display device may construct a light field using a direction light generated by a high speed projector and at least one rotating optical device to thereby display a more natural 3D image in a wide region. |
| US09304372B2 |
Optical element with sub elements and an addressable mask
A light modulation device comprising an optical element and at least one addressable mask disposed adjacent to the optical element. The optical element comprises at least two sub-elements, each of the at least two sub-elements having at least one optical characteristic wherein at least one optical characteristic of one sub-element is discrete from at least one optical characteristic of another sub-element. The mask comprises at least two regions corresponding to the at least two sub-elements, each of the at least two regions being individually addressable to enable its corresponding sub-element to be light transmitting. |
| US09304371B2 |
Photon source
An optical device comprising a quantum dot provided in a resonant confinement structure, an output from said confinement structure and a pulsed excitation source for said quantum dot, wherein the quantum dot is configured to allow the emission of photons having a first energy in response to a pulse from said excitation source, said resonant confinement structure providing optical confinement, the first energy being different to the resonant energy of the resonant confinement structure, the optical device further comprising a timing unit, said timing unit being configured to select photons which have been emitted from the quantum dot due to excitation by a pulse, the timing unit selecting photons emitted after the duration of the pulse which caused the emission of the photons. |
| US09304370B2 |
Optical waveguide device
An optical waveguide device in which optical characteristics are less degraded even when a branch angle in a Y branch portion of an optical waveguide is great is provided.In an optical waveguide device in which an optical waveguide is formed on a substrate, the optical waveguide includes a first branch portion which branches light into two light rays at a branch angle of 1/35 rad or more, a second branch portion (not illustrated) and a third branch portion (not illustrated) are arranged to be connected to each of two branched waveguides branched from the first branch portion, a radiation light guiding waveguide is arranged between the two branched waveguides of the first branch portion, and guides radiation light radiated from between the two branched waveguides at the first branch portion to the outside of the optical waveguide, and an optical termination portion (an electrode) which absorbs the guided radiation light or emits the guided radiation light to the outside of the substrate is arranged in a termination portion of the radiation light guiding waveguide. |
| US09304368B2 |
Electrochromic device and production method thereof
An electrochromic device, which contains: one support; a first electrode layer formed on the support; a second electrode layer provided to face the first electrode layer; an electrochromic layer provided to be in contact with the first electrode layer or the second electrode layer; a solid electrolyte layer containing inorganic particles, which is filled between the first electrode layer and the second electrode layer, and is provided to be in contact with the electrochromic layer; and a protective layer provided on the second electrode layer. |
| US09304367B2 |
Electro-static discharge protection circuit and liquid crystal display
An electro-static discharge protection circuit for a liquid crystal display is disclosed. In response to positive electro-static charges being generated on the signal line, a thin film transistor with a gate electrode connected to the high level signal line is switched on, and the positive electro-static charges are discharged through the switched on thin film transistor. In addition, in response to negative electro-static charges being generated on the signal line, a thin film transistor with a gate electrode connected to the low level signal line is switched on, and the negative electro-static charges are discharged through the switched on thin film transistor. |
| US09304353B2 |
Direct backlight module
The present invention provides a direct backlight module, which includes: a backplane (2), a plurality of backlight sources (4) mounted in the backplane (2), and a diffusion board (8) mounted on the backplane (2) and located above the backlight sources (4). The backplane (2) includes a bottom board (20) and a plurality of side boards (22) perpendicularly connected to the bottom board (20). The bottom board (20) includes a plurality of detachable carrier plates (24). The backlight sources (4) are mounted on the carrier plates (24). The direct backlight module of the present invention includes a plurality of carrier plates pieced together to form a bottom board of a backplane so that in assembling the backlight module, it is possible to simultaneously mount backlight sources to the plurality of carrier plates to thereby enhance the assembling efficiency. Further, when the backlight sources of some of the carrier plates are damaged, it only needs to re-work on the individual carrier plates of which the backlight sources are damaged so as to enhance the re-working efficiency. |
| US09304352B2 |
Two-way viewing angle display panel and method for fabricating the same
A two-way viewing angle display pane and a method for fabricating the same are provided and relate to the display field. The method for fabricating the two-way viewing angle display panel comprises: providing a transparent substrate (17); forming a grating (18) made of a light-shield layer on the transparent substrate; forming a transparent adjusting layer (19) on the transparent substrate (17) having the grating (18) formed thereon; and sequentially forming a pixel layer (13) and a transparent conductive layer (20) on the transparent adjusting layer (19). The technical solution of the invention may optimize the two-way viewing angles and avoid the yield rate problem caused by the thinned substrate. |
| US09304347B2 |
Touch panel assemblies and methods of manufacture
A two layer touch panel structure utilizes direct-bonded touch panel and liquid crystal display (LCD) stackups for devices like tablets and computers. The top surface of a color filter and a receive conducting layer are placed close to the surface of the stackup. Placing a layer of conductive material on top of the color filter, on top of the polarizer, or on the cover glass can enable the process to be greatly simplified and cheaper than conventional processes, while maintaining excellent electrical and touch performance, and reducing ITO pattern visibility. Such a process also can utilize a large color filter, enabling significantly more pieces to be formed from a single stack and thus further improving efficiency and cost. |
| US09304343B2 |
Liquid crystal display device
A first substrate includes first and second gate lines extending in a first direction. First, second, and third source lines respectively extend in a second direction orthogonally crossing the first direction and crossing the first and second gate lines. A first pixel electrode is arranged adjoining the first source line and extends in the second direction. A second pixel electrode is arranged adjoining the third source line and extends in the second direction. A second substrate includes a common electrode arranged above the second source line extending in the second direction between the first source line and the third source line. The first and second source lines, the first and second gate lines, and the first pixel electrode form a first pixel, and the second and the third source lines, the first and second gate lines, and the second pixel electrode form a second pixel. |
| US09304337B2 |
Faraday rotator for an optical isolator
A Faraday rotator includes two magnet sub-assemblies assemblies spaced apart and aligned with each other with a gap therebetween. Each magnet sub-assembly includes a central magnet magnetized in direction parallel to the gap. The central magnet is sandwiched between two end magnets magnetized in a direction perpendicular to the gap. A magneto-optic crystal is located in the gap between the central magnets. |
| US09304335B2 |
Integrated LDMOS devices for silicon photonics
A device includes a laterally diffused metal-oxide-semiconductor (LDMOS) device integrated with an optical modulator. An optical waveguide of the optical modulator includes a silicon-containing structure in a drift region of the LDMOS device. |
| US09304330B2 |
Experiential optical device
The invention provides a multi-layer experiential optical device including at least one polymeric layer having a first side and an opposing second side, and having a light-influencing property; and a low tack pressure sensitive adhesive layer applied on at least a peripheral zone of the second side of the polymeric layer. The experiential optical device is reversibly adherent to an optical lens. |
| US09304328B2 |
Contact lenses with embedded labels
An ophthalmic lens incorporating clearly identifiable, highly visible embedded labels that are not visible to the wearer or others when placed on the eye may be utilized to allow an individual to easily distinguish between the normal state of the lens and the inverted state of the lens as well as serve any number of functions, including acting as a brand label, a prescription label or as a cosmetic enhancer. The embedded label comprises holographic recordings revealed only in transmitted light. |
| US09304326B2 |
Lens actuator
A lens actuator is disclosed in the present invention. The lens actuator includes a movable unit including a carrier defining an optical axis, a plurality of focusing coils surrounding the carrier and spaced with each other, each wound around an axis perpendicular to the optical axis, fixed on an outer surface of the carrier, a plurality of magnets each opposite to one of the focusing coils in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis direction, and a holder fixing the magnets; a plurality of shake correction coils each disposed below one of the magnets and opposite to the magnet in the optical axis direction; a base fixing the shake correction coils; and wires connecting the movable unit to the base. |
| US09304325B2 |
Lens driving device with an improved OIS coil structure
The present invention provides a VCA-based lens driving device. By way of giving an improved OIS coil structure, a magnetic induction element used to sense movement of magnets atop which maybe cause from a user's hand shaking can be placed as far away from OIS coils as possible. The impact of the magnet field of the OIS coil on the magnetic induction element is thus reduced. In one embodiment, the OIS coil is down-sized to reduce the influence of the OIS coil on the magnetic induction element placed beside it. In another embodiment, the OIS coil has a one-sided indention and the magnetic induction element is placed below/or beside the indention of the OIS coil. |
| US09304321B2 |
Three dimensional image display device and method of displaying three dimensional image
A time multiplexing multi-view point three dimensional image display device includes a display panel that includes a plurality of pixels arranged in a matrix form, where each pixel displays one color of a plurality of primary colors, and a view point division unit that divides the 3D image displayed by the display panel into two or more view points. The display panel includes a plurality of dots, each dot includes a set of pixels in which each pixel shows a different primary color. Each dot displays a 3D image for a view point during a frame set that includes a plurality of frames. The view point division unit moves in a row direction when the frame changes in the frame set, and at least one pixel one of the dot is selected in each frame of the frame set. |
| US09304320B2 |
Head-mounted display and method of controlling the same
Disclosed herein are a head-mounted display and a method of controlling the same, more particularly, a method of displaying an image preview interface based on the position of a camera unit in the case that the camera unit mounted to a head-mounted display is detached. |
| US09304312B1 |
Electrowetting element and manufacture method
An electrowetting element includes a support plate with a layer with a first surface for adjoinment by a fluid. The layer is formed at least partly of a material having a backbone which is substantially apolar and at least one chain pendant from the backbone and terminating with a substantially polar group. |
| US09304311B2 |
Electronic tablet magnifying case device
An electronic tablet magnifying case device protects an electronic tablet and supports the tablet in a use position proximate a magnifying lens to reduce eye strain. The device includes a base and a first panel pivotally coupled to and extending from a first lateral side of the base. Each of a plurality of brackets is coupled to the first panel wherein an electronic tablet is couplable to the first panel on an interior face of the first panel. A second panel is pivotally coupled to and extends from a second lateral side. The second panel includes a magnifying lens pivotable to a use position wherein the magnifying lens is directed towards the interior face of the first panel when the first panel is in an extended position relative to the base. |
| US09304310B2 |
Three dimensional stimulated emission depletion microscopy
A STED microscope for producing a 3D image. The microscope has an excitation laser source for providing an excitation laser beam and a depletion laser source for providing stimulated emission depletion laser beam. The excitation beam is capable of exciting fluorescent markers in a sample placed in the sample region and the depletion beam is capable of inducing stimulated emission in the fluorescent marker in the sample in a region around the excitation beam to restrict the size of the region within which the fluorescent markers are excited and wherein the depletion laser source goes through an optical element which creates a cone refractive pattern which induces stimulated emission in the fluorescent marker in the sample. The shape of the light hollow of the cone refractive pattern varies at different distances from the source. This depth profile can be used to distinguish between positions at varying depths within a sample to create a 3D image. The combination of varying intensity across the sample and at different depths means that the present invention is able to produce images with lateral and axial resolutions ranging from the micro to the nano regime. |
| US09304308B2 |
Laser scanning module including an optical isolator
The present application discloses various implementations of a laser scanning module. In one implementation, such a laser scanning module comprising an optical isolator including first and second linear polarizers, a collimating optics configured to receive light produced by a laser light source and to pass a substantially collimated light beam to the first linear polarizer, and a scanning unit situated to receive light passed by the second linear polarizer. The first linear polarizer is separated from the collimating optics by a first distance less than a second distance separating the second linear polarizer from the scanning unit. |
| US09304304B2 |
Image capturing lens assembly
An image capturing lens assembly includes, in order from an object side to an image side, a first lens element, a second lens element, a third lens element and a fourth lens element. The first lens element with negative refractive power has an object-side surface being convex and an image-side surface being concave. The second lens element with positive refractive power has an object-side surface and an image-side surface being both convex. The third lens element with positive refractive power has an object-side surface being concave and an image-side surface being convex. The fourth lens element with positive refractive power has an object-side surface being convex, and an image-side surface being concave at a paraxial region and being convex at a peripheral region, wherein the surfaces of the fourth lens element are aspheric. |
| US09304299B2 |
Four-piece all-aspheric adapter fisheye lens
A four-piece all-aspheric adapter fisheye lens includes a negative meniscus lens, a biconcave lens, a positive meniscus lens, and a biconvex lens. The biconcave lens is between the negative meniscus lens and the positive meniscus lens; the positive meniscus lens is between the biconcave lens and the biconvex lens. The negative meniscus lens, the biconcave lens, the positive meniscus lens, and the biconvex lens are coaxial and arranged with an exit pupil to cooperatively generate an image with a camera lens that has greater field of view than the camera lens alone when the exit pupil is coplanar and coaxial with an entrance pupil of the camera lens. Each of the negative meniscus lens, the biconcave lens, the positive meniscus lens, and the biconvex lens has an aspheric object-side surface and an aspheric image-side surface. |
| US09304292B2 |
Imaging lens
An imaging lens includes 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; a fifth lens having negative refractive power; and a sixth lens having negative refractive power. The first to sixth lenses have specific Abbe's numbers to satisfy specific conditions. |
| US09304289B2 |
Imaging lens, and electronic apparatus including the same
An imaging lens includes first to fifth lens elements arranged from an object side to an image side in the given order. Through designs of surfaces of the lens elements and relevant optical parameters, a short system length of the imaging lens may be achieved while maintaining good optical performance. |
| US09304288B2 |
Photographing lens and photographing apparatus
A photographing lens and a photographing apparatus including the photographing lens. The photographing lens includes a first lens, a second lens, a third lens, a fourth lens, and a fifth lens that are arranged sequentially from an object side. The first lens has a concave surface toward the object side and has a positive refractive power, and the second lens is formed with a meniscus shape having a concave surface toward an image side and has a negative refractive power. |
| US09304287B2 |
Light concentrating apparatus
A light concentrating apparatus is presented. Disclosed apparatuses include a collection of shaped reflectors capable of redirecting incident light, sunlight for example. The reflectors are configured to modify the spatial distribution of the redirected light in a manner where the distribution of light associated with a first dimension is modified differently than the distribution of light associated with a second, different dimension, via a relay of reflections. Contemplated apparatuses generate a substantially collimated output beam subsequent to the relay of reflections. |
| US09304279B2 |
Lens barrel
A lens barrel includes a rectilinear unit, a lens unit, and a light shielding member. The lens unit is arranged inside the rectilinear unit and is movable relative to the rectilinear unit in an optical axis direction. The light shielding member functions for light shielding between the rectilinear unit and the lens unit. The light shielding unit has a light shielding layer and a support layer. The shielding layer is fitted on a decoration frame of the lens unit and closes a gap defined between the rectilinear unit and the lens unit and extending in the optical axis direction. The support layer has a body bonded to the light shielding area. The body has at least one low rigidity portion. The low rigidity portion has rigidity lower than that of the body. |
| US09304278B1 |
Traceable cable with side-emitting optical fiber and method of forming the same
A traceable cable and method of forming the same. The cable includes at least one data transmission element, a jacket at least partially surrounding the at least one data transmission element, and a side-emitting optical fiber incorporated with and extending along at least a portion of the length of the cable. The side-emitting optical fiber has a core and a cladding substantially surrounding the core to define an exterior surface. The cladding has spaced apart scattering sites penetrating the exterior surface along the length of the optical fiber. The scattering sites scattering light so that the scattered light is emitted from the side-emitting optical fiber at discrete locations. When light is transmitted through the core, light scattered from the side-emitting optical fiber allows the cable to be traced along at least a portion of the length thereof. |
| US09304277B2 |
Retention assembly for flexible strength members of an optical cable
An enclosure for housing and fastening a length of optical cable, the optical cable having an outer sheath and a flexible strength member, includes a fixing element and a retention assembly, the fixing element being adapted for engaging a portion of the outer sheath and the retention assembly being adapted for fastening the flexible strength member. The fixing element and the retention assembly are independent from each other. The retention assembly includes a reel and a reel seat. The reel is adapted to receive at least one turn of the flexible strength member wound thereon and to be inserted without rotation into the reel seat. The reel seat is adapted for housing the reel. The reel seat is shaped at least partially mating the shape of the reel. |
| US09304275B2 |
Micromodule cables and breakout cables therefor
A breakout cable includes a polymer jacket and a plurality of micromodules enclosed within the jacket. Each micromodule has a plurality of bend resistant optical fibers and a polymer sheath comprising PVC surrounding the bend resistant optical fibers. Each of the plurality of bend resistant optical fibers is a multimode optical fiber including a glass cladding region surrounding and directly adjacent to a glass core region. The core region is a graded-index glass core region, where the refractive index of the core region has a profile having a parabolic or substantially curved shape. The cladding includes a first annular portion having a lesser refractive index relative to a second annular portion of the cladding. The first annular portion is interior to the second annular portion. The cladding is surrounded by a low modulus primary coating and a high modulus secondary coating. |
| US09304274B2 |
Metal strain relief device for use in an optical communications system, an optical fiber cable that employs the strain relief device, and a method
A strain relief device and method are provided for use with an optical fiber cable of an optical communications system. The strain relief device comprises a plurality of metal wires, or rods, grouped into a bundle of parallel metal wires and a clamping mechanism for clamping first and second ends of the metal wires to an optical fiber cable. The clamped bundle of metal wires forms a spring having a spring constant that provides it with a desired stiffness and a desired flexibility. |
| US09304272B2 |
EO device for processing data signals
The present disclosure allows connection between optical and electrical devices at high frequencies and high bit rate. The present disclosure provides an electro-optical device that includes an optical interface for optical signal transmission and reception; an electrical interface for electrical signal transmission and reception; a data and signal unit located inside an integrated circuit chip coupled to the optical interface and to the electrical interface for manipulating data received through said interfaces; and a processing unit located inside the integrated circuit chip coupled to the optical interface and to the electrical interface for processing digital data received through said interfaces. The present disclosure provides devices that achieve smaller physical dimensions with an increased number of interfaces to allow greater throughput of data into and out of the integrated circuit. This allows increased input/output bandwidth and increased amount of logic can be placed directly into the integrated circuit. |
| US09304264B2 |
Optical fiber subassembly
An interposer sub-assembly for holding or gripping a plurality of optical fibers in a multi-fiber ferrule connector including: a substrate comprising a bottom surface, a top surface, and a front face; a pair of guide pin grooves on the bottom surface of said substrate, wherein the pair of guide pin grooves are capable of receiving guide pins from a ferrule connector; and a plurality of resilient fiber grooves formed on the bottom surface, wherein the plurality of resilient fiber grooves are configured for receiving a plurality of optical conduits. |
| US09304263B2 |
Fiber optic connector assembly
A connector includes an insulating connector body having a contact hole formed in the connector body. A metal shell receives the connector body. An adapter in the contact hole supports a fiber optic terminus. A securing member is located on an exterior surface of the connector body and releasably attaches the adapter to the connector body such that the adapter and terminus can be conjointly and nondestructively inserted into the connector body and conjointly and nondestructively removed from the connector body. |
| US09304261B2 |
Optical jumper
An optical jumper includes a fiber housing and two clamping arms. The fiber housing includes a top surface and a front surface connected to the top surface. The fiber housing defines a groove in the top surface and receiving channels in the bottom of the groove. The fiber housing defines through holes passing through the front surface. Each of the through holes is aligned with and communicated with a respective one of the receiving channels. The fiber housing defines a recess in the top surface. The recess is close to the front surface with respect to the groove. The recess is communicated with the receiving channels through the through holes. The two clamping arms are extending from the fiber housing in the same direction. |
| US09304260B2 |
Optical fiber tip attachment
An optical fiber assembly includes an optical fiber with a bulbous portion at a first end of the optical fiber and an optical tip attachment surrounding a segment of the optical fiber proximate the bulbous portion. The optical tip attachment is configured to bend the segment of the optical fiber. The optical fiber tip attachment is configured to maintain an air gap between a cylindrical surface of the segment and an inner surface of the optical fiber tip attachment. |
| US09304259B1 |
MEMS mirror arrays having multiple mirror units
A micro-electro-mechanical systems (MEMS) mirror array can be constructed using sub-dies that each includes two or more MEMS mirrors. In some implementations, an optical cross-connect system includes a first MEMS mirror array that includes first mirror units. Each first mirror unit can include a first substrate and two or more first MEMS mirrors supported by the first substrate. Each first substrate can be independent from each other first substrate. The cross-connect system can include a second MEMS mirror array that includes second mirror units. Each second mirror unit can include a second substrate and two or more second MEMS mirrors supported by the second substrate. Each second substrate can be independent from each other second substrate. |
| US09304258B2 |
Optical fiber grating tracker and method for detecting optical fiber line fault
An optical fiber grating tracker includes a first stub, a second stub, an optical fiber grating, and a connection part. The connection part has a through hole. The first stub is inserted into one end of the through hole. The second stub is inserted into the other end of the through hole. An interval exists between the first stub and the second stub. The optical fiber grating is in the through hole and in the interval. A space in the through hole is filled with a waterproof material. The optical fiber grating tracker and the method for detecting an optical fiber line fault can detect an optical fiber fault from an optical fiber truck to the optical fiber grating tracker through an optical splitter, and meanwhile do not affect normal communication of an original optical communication network. |
| US09304255B2 |
Optical device and manufacturing method therefor
An optical device includes an SOI substrate, the embedded insulating layer having a thickness of 200 nanometers (nm) or less; an optical waveguide comprising a Group III-V compound semiconductor material formed on top of the SOI substrate; and an optical leakage preventing layer formed inside the SOI substrate on a bottom side of the optical waveguide to prevent leakage of light from inside the optical waveguide towards the SOI substrate. |
| US09304254B2 |
Substrate-type waveguide element and optical modulator
Since a cross section of at least a partial segment of a first core has a step-like shape including a quadrilateral shape of a main part and a quadrilateral shape of a protruding part protruding from the main part, respective effective refractive indices of TE polarized waves in the first core and in the second core differ from each other. |
| US09304251B2 |
Plastic optical fiber and method for its production
To provide a plastic optical fiber using amorphous fluorinated polymers whereby transmission loss and bending loss are low, no cracking takes place during stretching, and a wide range of molding conditions is acceptable.A plastic optical fiber comprising an inner layer, an outer layer having a refractive index lower than the refractive index of the inner layer, and a protective coating layer covering the outer periphery of the outer layer, wherein the inner layer contains an amorphous fluorinated polymer (a) having no C—H bond, the outer layer contains an amorphous fluorinated polymer (c) which may have a C—H bond only at a terminal of the main chain, the glass transition temperature (Tgc) of the fluorinated polymer (c) is at least the glass transition temperature (Tga) of the fluorinated polymer (a), the plastic optical fiber is a stretched one, the fracture elongation of the fluorinated polymer (a) and the fracture elongation of the fluorinated polymer (c) are at least 120% and larger than the stretching ratio. |
| US09304250B2 |
Light emitting unit
A light emitting unit includes a light source and a light guiding member. The light guiding member includes a light incident guiding portion that is arranged to face a light emitting surface of the light source and have a light incident surface, on which light emitted from the light source is incident, is formed at one end thereof, and a plurality of branched extending light guiding portions that are branched from the light incident guiding portion and extend towards back surfaces of a plurality of display portions. The plurality of branched extending light guiding portions are so formed that, the end surfaces of the branched extending light guiding portions have larger areas in accordance with increase of the lengths in the extending directions of the branched extending light guiding portions. |
| US09304245B2 |
Display device including a light guide bonded to a display panel
Disclosed is a display device having a slim and narrow structure. The display device comprises a liquid crystal panel; a light source for providing light to the liquid crystal panel; a light guide of a glass material, wherein the light source is combined with one side of the light guide; a reflector formed on at least one of both surfaces of the light guide; and an adhesive member formed on one surface of the light guide confronting the liquid crystal panel, and provided to attach the liquid crystal panel and the light guide to each other. |
| US09304237B1 |
Tunable band-pass filter
Optical filters and methods of making optical filters are provided. The optical filter can include a first and second stack of layers. The first stack of layers can be configured to provide a cut-on edge for s-polarized radiation incident at a second wavelength value and a cut-off edge for s-polarized radiation incident at a third wavelength value. The second stack of layers can be configured to provide a cut-off edge for s-polarized radiation incident on the second stack of layers at a fourth wavelength value. Further, the fourth wavelength value can lie between the second wavelength value and the third wavelength value. Furthermore, a curve or line of full-width half-maximum (FWHM) values of the optical filter pass-band can define a first derivative with respect to angle-of-incidence values at at least one angle-of-incidence value that is substantially positive or substantially zero. |
| US09304231B2 |
Heat fusible oil gels
The present invention is directed to a composition for a gel useful in fiber optic cable which has the normal consistency of a grease but which, if desired, will become a rubbery coherent gel upon heating; a method of making the heat-fusible gel, and a method of making a spliceable fiber optic cable, and a fiber optic cable. In the broadest sense, a heat-fusible oil gel composition for fiber optic cable is disclosed, comprising: from 50 to 80 wt. % of a grease-like gel based on a hydrocarbon oil containing from 2 to 10 wt. % of an S-EB or S-EP diblock polymer, or a mixture of these diblock copolymers, and from 20 to 50 wt. % of a grease-like gel based on a polar oil containing from 5 to 25 wt. % of an S-EB-S or S-EP-S triblock copolymer, or a mixture of these triblock copolymers. |
| US09304228B2 |
Object detection apparatus with detection based on reflected light or scattered light via an imaging unit
An object detection apparatus includes an incident optical system, which includes light source units and a combining unit combining light beams emitted from the light source units; a deflection unit including rotating reflection parts that deflect the light beams to scan and be irradiated on a predetermined range of an object; an imaging unit forming an image based on the light from the predetermined range of the object; and an optical detection unit detecting the object based on the light received via the imaging unit. Further the combining unit combines the light beams such that each of the combined light beams passes a single light path when projected onto a predetermined plane, and each of the light paths exists outside a region of the deflection unit when projected onto the first plane. |
| US09304221B2 |
Determining an indication of wavefield velocity
Translational data acquired by at least one translational survey sensor is received, and rotation data is received. A representation of wavefield velocity based on the translational data and the rotation data is determined. |
| US09304215B2 |
Receiving seismic signals from seismic signal sources
A seismic exploration system includes a survey area defined by a perimeter and including a first plurality of sub-areas and a second plurality of sub-areas adjacent the first plurality of sub-areas; two or more seismic energy sources installed within the perimeter of the seismic survey area; a first plurality of groups of seismic energy receivers installed in the first plurality of sub-areas, each of the groups of seismic energy receivers in the first plurality of groups including two or more seismic energy receivers per wavelength of seismic energy generated by the two or more seismic energy sources; and a second plurality of groups of seismic energy receivers installed in the second plurality of sub-areas, each of the groups of seismic energy receivers in the second plurality of groups including less than two seismic energy receivers per wavelength of seismic energy generated by the two or more seismic energy sources. |
| US09304211B2 |
Scintillation detector with active light guide
A scintillation detector array includes a scintillator array comprising a plurality of scintillator elements, a photodetector array comprising a plurality of photodetector elements, an active light guide separating the scintillator array from the photodetector array. The active light guide formed of a scintillator material having different emission properties than the plurality of scintillator elements. |
| US09304204B2 |
Method and device for optically measuring the interior of a pipe
The invention relates to a method and a device for optically measuring the interior of a seamless pipe which is manufactured by rolling or of a pipe which is welded with a longitudinal seam and is manufactured from sheet-metal plates shaped to form half-shells or from a shaped sheet-metal plate or from a metal strip which is unwound from a coil, comprising a sensor means (9) which emits a laser beam (10) in the interior of the pipe (3). In such a method and device, an internal measurement of seamless pipes or pipes which are welded with a longitudinal seam is to be provided with which it is easily possible to determine and model precisely the ovalness and straightness of the pipe (3) in a station. For this purpose there is provision that the sensor means (9) is moved horizontally through the pipe (3), wherein the internal contour (15) of the pipe (3) is measured in that a laser tracker (12) which is positioned at the end of the travel path follows, with its laser beam (13), the respective position of the sensor means (9) in the space of the pipe (3) and senses deviations of the sensor means (9) from straightness. |
| US09304203B1 |
Methods, devices, and systems for improving dynamic range of signal receiver
Methods, devices, and systems that may help improve the dynamic range of a signal receiver. The method includes (i) causing a signal emitter to emit a signal during a first period of time; (ii) receiving, at the signal receiver, a reflected signal during a second period of time, where the received reflected signal corresponds to the emitted signal, and where the second period of time begins after a beginning of the first period of time; and (iii) increasing a signal gain that is applied to the received reflected signal during a third period of time, where the third period of time begins not earlier than a beginning of the second period of time. |
| US09304199B2 |
Obstacle and terrain warning radar system for a rotorcraft
Obstacle and terrain warning radar system (1) for a rotorcraft (2), the system having at least two assemblies (10), each having at least one radar unit, said rotorcraft (2) including at least one main rotor (20) having at least two blades (22) and a rotor head (23). Each radar unit transmits a centrifugal radar beam (17) with angular beam width in azimuth α of at least 5° and beam width in elevation ε of at least 5°. Said assemblies (10) of at least one radar unit are positioned directly on said rotor head (23) between said blades (22), said radar system (1) electronically scanning the surroundings with angular coverage in elevation of at least +/−15° and mechanically scanning the surroundings with angular coverage in azimuth of 360°, and then informing the pilot of said rotorcraft (2). |
| US09304196B2 |
Motor vehicle with a radar mechanism and procedure for the operation of a radar mechanism
The invention relates to a motor vehicle with a radar device (3, 4) which is designed for detecting an object (25) located in a detection zone (7, 8) of the radar device (3, 4), wherein the detection zone (7, 8) is defined by an elevation angle zone (δ1, δ2) and an azimuth angle zone (α), wherein the elevation angle zone (δ1, δ2) also covers at least such a partial angle zone (δ1) which lies within an angle interval of 15° to 90° above a horizontal (33) defined with respect to the motor vehicle (1). |
| US09304195B2 |
Object detection apparatus and method
An object detection method includes outputting a radio wave, receiving a reflected wave of the radio wave, generating a plurality of object information each indicating a location of each of a plurality of objects with respect to a predetermined reference point based on the radio wave and the reflected wave, calculating a first distance between an observation reference line which represents a shape and a location of a target area for detection preset depending on a target object for detection, and each of the plurality of objects, based on the observation reference line information stored in advance indicating a shape and a location of the observation reference line and the object information, selecting a predetermined number or less of the object information in ascending order of the first distance among the plurality of the object information as the object information to be output, and outputting the selected object information. |
| US09304193B2 |
Ultrasound diagnostic apparatus and ultrasound image producing method
An ultrasound diagnostic apparatus comprises a transducer array for transmitting ultrasonic beams to a subject, a multiplexer for sequentially selecting one channel of reception signal in every N number of channels of reception signals out of a plurality of channels of reception signals outputted from the transducer array which has received receiving ultrasonic echoes from the subject, a plurality of reception signal processors for sequentially processing an N number of channels of reception signals selected by the multiplexer to produce reception data, a beam former for performing beam forming on reception data sequentially produced by the plurality of reception signal processors and having time difference to produce sound ray signals, and an image producing unit for producing an ultrasound image based on the sound ray signals produced by the beam former. |
| US09304192B2 |
Beamforming method and apparatus, and medical imaging system
A beamforming method includes generating a control signal for implementing a delay time for each of a plurality of transducers of each of a plurality of two-dimensional (2D) transducer-arrays, transmitting the control signal to a plurality of driving units respectively corresponding to the plurality of 2D transducer-arrays via an interposer that electrically connects the plurality of 2D transducer-arrays to each other, and driving each 2D transducer-array of the plurality of 2D transducer-arrays with a corresponding driving unit of the plurality of driving units according to the control signal transmitted via the interposer. |
| US09304191B2 |
Subject information obtaining apparatus, subject information obtaining method, and program
A subject information obtaining apparatus according includes: plurality of conversion elements configured to convert an elastic wave from a subject into a plurality of reception signals, a delay and sum unit configured to perform a delay and sum process by using the plurality of reception signals and output a plurality of scanning line signals, a scanning line synthesis unit configured to add the plurality of scanning line signals between adjacent scanning lines and output a plurality of synthesis scanning line signals, and an FDI adaptive processing unit configured to perform a frequency domain interferometry and an adaptive signal processing by using the plurality of synthesis scanning line signals and obtain a power intensity distribution. |
| US09304190B2 |
Method and system for unveiling hidden dielectric object
The invention relates to the remote measurement of the dielectric permittivity of dielectrics. A 3D microwave and a 3D optical range images of an interrogated scene are recorded at the same time moment. The images are digitized and overlapped. A space between the microwave and optical image is measured, and a dielectric permittivity of the space between these images is determined. If the dielectric permittivity is about 3, then hidden explosive materials or components of thereof are suspected. The invention makes it possible to remotely determine the dielectric permittivity of a moving, irregularly-shaped dielectric objects. |
| US09304187B2 |
Method for estimating positions of devices in wireless access systems supporting communication between devices, and apparatus for supporting same
The present invention relates to a method for estimating the positions of devices in direct communication with each other, to a method for estimating the structure of a network, and to apparatuses for supporting the methods. According to one embodiment of the present invention, the method for estimating the positions of devices in a wireless access system which supports direct D2D communication between the devices includes the steps of: obtaining information on distance estimation to an adjacent D2D device (for example, a second D2D device) by a D2D device having two reference points (for example, a first D2D device); and estimating the position of the D2D device by using the information on distance estimation and the position information on the two reference points, at which time the information on distance estimation can be obtained through direct D2D communication between the D2D device and the adjacent D2D device. |
| US09304186B2 |
System and method for channel feedback for location time of flight
A method and system for time-of-flight (ToF) positioning in an IEEE 802.11 network comprises a responder station to transmit samples of preambles as the preambles are received. The samples represent channel information. The preambles comprise extension high-throughput long training fields (HT-LTFs). An initiator station is arranged to perform a time-of-arrival calculation based at least in part on an analysis of the channel information. |
| US09304184B1 |
System and method for mitigating severe multipath interference for geolocation and navigation
A method for increasing accuracy of geolocation based on timing measurements of RF signals. The method includes: (a) receiving at a user one or more RF signals transmitted over time, (b) correlating the received signals with a plurality of replica waveforms, (c) creating a first set of estimates of the time or arrivals of the signals at the user, (d) using the first set of estimates to create a plurality of models, wherein each model assumes that some of the measurements are affected by multipath or interference, (e) testing the models to estimate the likelihood of timing measurements for each model, and (f) determining the set of LOS measurements as one associated with a model having the largest likelihood. |
| US09304183B2 |
Device for tracking adjustment and tracking adjustment method
A device for tracking adjustment comprising a zoom instruction input device, a focus instruction input device, a tracking instruction input device, an image signal obtaining device, a determining device which determines whether a state is a first adjustment state in which the zoom lens is set by the zoom instruction input device at a position on a tele side and the focus lens is moved by the focus instruction input device or a second adjustment state in which the zoom lens is set by the zoom instruction input device at a position on a wide side and the tracking lens is moved by the tracking instruction input device, an area setting device, an evaluation value generating device, and a display device, wherein the determining device determines whether the state is the first adjustment state or the second adjustment state based on the image signal obtained from the camera device. |
| US09304174B1 |
Cross-coupled voltage and temperature monitoring in programmable integrated circuits
Method and apparatus for monitoring system operations in an integrated circuit. A method includes receiving a first power supply voltage from a first processing domain, comparing the first power supply voltage to a first reference voltage, receiving the second power supply voltage from the second processing domain, comparing the second power supply voltage to a second reference voltage, determining that the first power supply voltage exceeds the first reference voltage or that the second power supply voltage exceeds the second reference voltage, and transmitting one or more alarms corresponding to one or more of the first power supply voltage and the second power supply voltage in response to determining that the first power supply voltage exceeds the first reference voltage or that the second power supply voltage exceeds the second reference voltage. An integrated circuit and system monitor are also provided. |
| US09304166B2 |
Method and system for wafer level testing of semiconductor chips
A system and method for wafer level testing of semiconductor chips are provided. In one embodiment, the system comprises a plurality of semiconductor chips disposed in a wafer, each semiconductor chip having at least one port for receiving test data and at least one connection disposed in a kerf region of the wafer between at least one port of a first semiconductor chip and at least one port of at least one second semiconductor chip in the plurality of semiconductor chips, wherein the first semiconductor chip is configured to send the test data to the at least one second semiconductor chip via the at least one connection. Additionally, the plurality of semiconductor chips may comprise at least one core logic configured to pass the test data to the at least one second semiconductor chip via the at least one connection. |
| US09304162B2 |
Input device transmitter path error diagnosis
A processing system configured for capacitive sensing comprises transmitter circuitry, a first internal diagnostic mechanism, and a determination module. The transmitter circuitry is coupled with a first transmitter path of a plurality of transmitter paths and configured to transmit a first transmitter signal with the first transmitter path, wherein each transmitter path of the plurality of transmitter paths is configured for capacitive sensing. The first internal diagnostic mechanism is coupled to a second transmitter path of the plurality of transmitter paths. The first internal diagnostic mechanism is configured to acquire a first resulting signal while the transmitter circuitry transmits the first transmitter signal with the first transmitter path, wherein the first internal diagnostic mechanism comprises a selectable leakage path coupled to the transmitter circuitry. The determination module is further configured to determine that the first transmitter path is ohmically coupled to the second transmitter path of the plurality of transmitter paths based upon the first resulting signal. |
| US09304161B2 |
Solar power generation system, abnormality detection method, and abnormality detection system
In order to provide a system which detects and classifies abnormality in a solar battery even during power generation, an output voltage and an output current of the solar battery during power generation are detected, and a solar battery characteristic equation and a threshold value for detecting an abnormal state are calculated using the detected voltage value and current value and the measurement data of an external environment measurement unit. The kind of abnormal state of the solar battery is classified using the calculation result of the characteristic equation and the threshold value. |
| US09304160B1 |
Defect inspection apparatus, system, and method
Aspects of the present disclosure describe an inspection apparatus which performs inspection on a smaller field of a wafer with structures for current collection. The defective via holes may be located based on the collected current. It is emphasized that this abstract is provided to comply with the rules requiring an abstract that will allow a searcher or other reader to quickly ascertain the subject matter of the technical disclosure. It is submitted with the understanding that it will not be used to interpret or limit the scope or meaning of the claims. |
| US09304159B2 |
Detection and location of electrical connections having a micro-interface abnormality in an electrical system
A method of detecting and locating a micro-interface abnormality within an electrical system having a plurality of conductors and a plurality of electrical connections includes identifying a subset of the plurality of electrical connections by detecting an acoustic signal within the electrical system and analyzing the detected acoustic signal and determining that the detected acoustic signal is indicative of an electrical fault, measuring a contact resistance of each of the subset of the plurality of electrical connections, and identifying at least one of the subset of the plurality of electrical connection points as having a micro-interface abnormality based on the measured contact resistances. |
| US09304148B2 |
Internal chirp generator with time aligned acquisition in a mixed-domain oscilloscope
A mixed-domain oscilloscope (MDO) includes a signal generator configured to generate a test signal having a span ranging from a user-configurable start frequency to a user configurable stop frequency, an output channel coupled to the signal generator and configured to transmit the test signal, an RF input channel configured to receive a return signal based on the test signal, an acquisition section configured to acquire and digitize the return signal as an acquisition record, and a ramp busy signal generator configured to substantially time-align the acquisition record with the test signal. The test signal includes a chirp signal that is a linearly swept sine wave that spans between the user-configurable start frequency and the user-configurable stop frequency. Methods include calibrating the chirp signal, connecting the MDO in various test configurations relative to external return loss bridge and DUT equipment, and performing measurements such as S21 (db), S11 (db), and distance-to-fault type measurements. |
| US09304145B2 |
Inspection method and its apparatus for thermal assist type magnetic head element
To detect near-field light, which is generated by a thermal assist type magnetic head element, and leaking light with high sensitivity and to more accurately obtain the spatial intensity distribution of a near-field light generation area, an inspection apparatus for a thermal assist type magnetic head element is adapted so that a distance between a cantilever and the surface of a specimen and the excitation amplitude of the cantilever are set to be small to detect near-field light with high sensitivity by the suppression of an influence of other light components, a distance between the cantilever and the surface of the specimen and the excitation amplitude of the cantilever are set to be large to detect other light components present in the vicinity of near-field light with high sensitivity by the suppression of an influence of the amount of detected near-field light when other light components are measured. |
| US09304144B2 |
Multiple probe actuation
A method of actuating a plurality of probes by delivering photothermal energy to the probes so that the probes are heated and deform relative to a sample. The photothermal energy is delivered to the probes by: directing an input beam into an optical device; transforming the input beam with the optical device into a plurality of actuation beamlets which are not parallel with each other; and scanning the actuation beamlets across the probes, optionally via an objective lens. A spacing between the actuation beamlets is different to a spacing between the probes so that only a subset (typically only one) of the actuation beamlets illuminates a probe at any instant. As the actuation beamlets scan across the probes the probes are illuminated in an illumination sequence. The actuation beamlets are controlled so that different amounts of photothermal energy are delivered to at least two of the probes during the illumination sequence. |
| US09304143B2 |
Operating movement detection device, operating movement detection method, and program
An operating movement detection device, which detects a shaking movement performed on an electronic device in a first direction, includes an acquisition unit that acquires a first acceleration value in the first direction and a second acceleration value in a second direction different from the first direction, the first acceleration value and the second acceleration value being sensed by an acceleration sensor, a calculation unit that calculates a determination threshold based on the second acceleration value acquired in a first determination period, and a determination unit that determines whether or not the shaking movement has been performed based on the first acceleration value acquired in the first determination period and the calculated determination threshold. |
| US09304142B1 |
Energy harvesting zero-speed sensor device, method and system
This invention provides an angular speed detection and monitoring system comprised of an energy harvesting integrated generator and sensor with wireless data transmission capability, a wireless data relay station and a wireless remote termination station for control wiring connections and digital communications. The invention provides real-time rotational acceleration and speed measurement for continuous process control and ‘Zero-Speed’ detection for simple on-off interlock control and fault monitoring of rotating equipment or moving surfaces. |
| US09304140B2 |
Sample analyzer
A sample analyzer comprising: a sample dispenser for dispensing a sample into a reaction container; a sample transporter for sequentially transports a plurality of reaction containers along a transporting path; a processing station including a plurality of processing sections and a transferring section that transfers a reaction container between the sample transporter and the processing sections; and a controller is disclosed. The sample dispenser sequentially dispenses samples at intervals. The controller alternates the interval when problem occurred at any of the processing sections. |
| US09304139B2 |
Method of analyzing hemoglobins
An object of the present invention is to provide a method for analyzing hemoglobins which can accurately separate hemoglobins in a short time by liquid chromatography. The method for analyzing hemoglobins by liquid chromatography includes pretreating a sample with an oxidant and a binder for trivalent heme iron. |
| US09304138B2 |
Pharmaceutical composition
The present invention relates to methods and compositions for the therapeutic and diagnostic use in the treatment of diseases and disorders which are caused by or associated with neurofibrillary tangles. In particular, the invention relates to antibodies, which specifically recognize and bind to phosphorylated pathological protein tau-conformers and to methods and compositions involving said antibodies for the therapeutic and diagnostic use in the treatment of tauopathies including Alzheimer's Disease (AD). |
| US09304136B2 |
Means and methods for assessing increased peroxisomal proliferation
The present invention pertains to the field of toxicological assessments for risk stratification of chemical compounds. Specifically, it relates to a method for diagnosing increased peroxisomal proliferation. It also relates to a method of determining whether a compound is capable of inducing such peroxisomal proliferation in a subject and to a method of identifying a drug for treating increased peroxisomal proliferation. Furthermore, the present invention relates to a data collection including characteristic values of at least five metabolites, a data storage medium including data collection, and a system and a device for diagnosing increased peroxisomal proliferation. Finally, the present invention pertains to the use of a group of metabolites or means for the determination thereof for the manufacture of a diagnostic device or composition for diagnosing increased peroxisomal proliferation in a subject. |
| US09304135B2 |
Method for diagnosing stomach cancer using change of tryptophan metabolism
The present disclosure relates to stomach cancer diagnosis using tryptophan metabolism rate in one aspect, and it relates to an invention using change of tryptophan metabolism rate in a stomach cancer patient, which is different from a normal person. |
| US09304133B2 |
Methods and devices for analyte detection
Methods and apparatus are provided to resolve analytes within a fluid path using isoelectric focusing, gel electrophoresis, or other separation means. Materials within the fluid path that are compatible with these separation means are used to attach resolved analytes to the wall of the fluid path. Attachment results from a triggerable event such as photoactivation, thermal activation, or chemical activation. In accordance with a further aspect of the present invention, the material in the capillary may also be disrupted, by either the triggerable event or a subsequent event such as melting or photocleavage. Thus, an open lumen or porous structure may be created within the fluid path, allowing unbound analyte materials to be washed from the fluid path, and detection agents to be washed into the fluid path. The separation-compatible materials may be polymerizable monomers, gels, entangled polymers or other materials. |
| US09304132B2 |
Molecular delivery with nanowires
A molecular delivery system including a plurality of nanowires (e.g., Si NWs), each of the nanowires having a surface layer formed of a silicon-containing material and a covalently bound linker (e.g., silane linker) attached to the surface layer, and optionally including a substrate to which the nanowires are adhered or a molecule to be delivered attached to the linker. Also disclosed is a method of delivering into a cell an exogenous molecule. |
| US09304131B2 |
Magnetic system for particle attraction in a plurality of chambers
The invention relates to a magnetic sample-processing device, particularly a sensor device (100), that comprises two electromagnets (110, 120) for generating a magnetic field (B) in a first and a second sample chamber (SC1, SC2) located adjacent to each other in an x-direction. The poles of the electromagnets are disposed below the first and the second sample chamber (SC1, SC2), respectively, next to each other in a perpendicular y-direction. Moreover, the electromagnets are individually controlled by a control unit (130). In a preferred embodiment, the distance between the electromagnets (110, 120) in x-direction is so large that magnetic cross talk can be neglected. In another embodiment, said distance is close, and the electromagnets are operated in a synchronized way. |
| US09304129B2 |
Devices, systems, and methods for conducting assays with improved sensitivity using sedimentation
Embodiments of the present invention are directed toward devices, systems, and method for conducting assays using sedimentation. In one example, a method includes layering a mixture on a density medium, subjecting sedimentation particles in the mixture to sedimentation forces to cause the sedimentation particles to move to a detection area through a density medium, and detecting a target analyte in a detection region of the sedimentation channel. In some examples, the sedimentation particles and labeling agent may have like charges to reduce non-specific binding of labeling agent and sedimentation particles. In some examples, the density medium is provided with a separation layer for stabilizing the assay during storage and operation. In some examples, the sedimentation channel may be provided with a generally flat sedimentation chamber for dispersing the particle pellet over a larger surface area. |
| US09304127B2 |
Anti-adrenomedullin (ADM) antibody or anti-ADM antibody fragment for use in therapy
Subject matter of the present invention is an anti-adrenomedullin antibody or an anti-adrenomedullin antibody fragment or anti-ADM non-Ig scaffold wherein said antibody or said fragment or scaffold is a non-neutralizing antibody, antibody fragment or non-Ig scaffold, respectively. Subject matter of the present invention is also in anti-adrenomedullin antibody or an anti-adrenomedullin antibody fragment or anti-ADM non-Ig scaffold for use in a treatment of a chronic or acute disease wherein said antibody or fragment or scaffold is an ADM stabilizing antibody or an adrenomedullin stabilizing antibody fragment or an ADM stabilizing non-Ig scaffold that enhances the t½ half retention time of adrenomedullin in serum, blood, plasma at least 10%, preferably at least, 50%, more preferably >50%, most preferably 100%, and/or wherein said anti-ADM antibody or an anti-adrenomedullin antibody fragment or anti-ADM non-Ig scaffold blocks the bioactivity of ADM to not more than 80%, or not more than 50%. |
| US09304124B2 |
Compact multifunctional ligand to enhance colloidal stability of nanoparticles
A ligand design allows compact nanoparticle materials, such as quantum dots (QDs), with excellent colloidal stability over a wide range of pH and under high salt concentrations. Self-assembled biomolecular conjugates with QDs can be obtained which are stable in biological environments. Energy transfer with these ligands is maximized by minimizing distances between QDs/nanoparticles and donors/acceptors directly attached to the ligands or assembled on their surfaces. |
| US09304122B2 |
Microfluidic-based flow analyzer
The present disclosure is related to a microfluidic flow analyzer for pathological detection. The microfluidic flow analyzer comprises plurality of buffer channels, sample channel, central flow channel, plurality of exciting optical channels and plurality of receiving optical channels. The plurality of exciting optical channels and the plurality of receiving optical channels are placed at predetermined angle to the central flow channel. The plurality of exciting optical channels excite cell in the sample solution flowing through the central flow channel. The cell being excited produces one or more optical signals. The one or more optical signals are received by the plurality of receiving optical channels. The microfluidic flow analyzer comprises plurality of detectors placed on each of the plurality of receiving optical channels for detecting one of the one or more optical signals. The detected optical signal is sent to a computing unit for pathological detection. |
| US09304120B2 |
Method and system for analyzing a liquid sample containing particles of solid matter and the use of such a method and system
The invention relates to a method and system for monitoring of particles properties in a stream and the use of such method and system. In particular, the invention concerns sampling of liquids like aqueous suspensions or filtrates that contain solid matter in forest industry, oil and mining industry, as well as in and water treatment, desalination or water reuse processes, and in subsequent measurement of the samples. A sample from a stream of liquid is dyed to stain particles contained in the sample, which is conducted to a first flow chamber having means for causing said sample to be divided into particle populations according to their size or mass. A liquid flow is applied through the first flow chamber to cause at least one particle population to flow into a second flow chamber. The particle populations are measured to produce at least one measurement signal representative of the amount and/or properties of the particles, and processing extract key variables of each particle population and presenting them as an analysis of particle populations or the whole sample in terms of a count and size of particles and/or their hydrophobicity. |
| US09304115B2 |
Pressure sensing and flow control in diffusion-bonded planar devices for fluid chromatography
Flow through pressure sensors for use in fluid chromatography systems include a planar device formed from diffusion bonding of a plurality of metallic sheets and at least one sensing element. The planar device has a top surface, a bottom surface and a flow through channel. A diaphragm formed from a portion of one of the top or bottom surfaces is located adjacent to a sensing region of the flow through channel and is attached to the sensing element. The diaphragm is sized to deflect a distance in response to fluid pressure in the sensing region, which has an internal volume of less than about 25 microliters. The diaphragm and attached sensing element form a pressure sensor that measures strain or deflection of the diaphragm to calculate a pressure within the sensing region. |
| US09304112B2 |
Method for detecting the purity of gold bullion
The density of gold and tungsten are almost identical, allowing for substitution by unscrupulous entities. The detection of the replacement is difficult to detect by common nondestructive testing methods, and repositories have resorted to drilling, cutting and melting samples of gold bars to certify their integrity. Resonant ultrasound spectroscopy allows a digital fingerprint to be produced, which has been shown to be effective in the detection of tampering. These spectra are representative of the dimensions, density and elastic constants of any solid object. Since the dimensions and density are essentially identical for pure and adulterated gold samples, only the elastic constant variance changes the spectral fingerprint. The method described in this application provides a reliable and accurate process to certify the integrity of gold samples. |
| US09304109B2 |
Magnetizing apparatus for magnetic particle testing of a wheel using a conductor and auxiliary conductors for magnetization
The present inventions provides a magnetizing apparatus 100 for magnetic particle testing of a wheel 7 that includes a hub 71, a plate 72, and a rim 73 in sequence from inward to outward in a radial direction of the wheel. The apparatus includes: a conductor 1 inserted through a bore 711 of the hub 71; and a pair of auxiliary conductors 2 connected to respective opposite end portions of the conductor 1, and so disposed as to face respective opposite side surfaces of the wheel 7, and to extend from the hub 71 to the rim 73 outwardly in a radial direction of the wheel 7, wherein the pair of auxiliary conductors 2 and the conductor 1 are energized with alternating current. |
| US09304106B1 |
High duty cycle trapping ion mobility spectrometer
The invention provides a trapping ion mobility analyzer and methods for operating the ion mobility analyzer. The trapping ion mobility analyzer comprises an RF field for radially confining ions along an axis, a region with an axial electric DC field and a gas flow along the axis counteracting the electric DC field in the region, wherein the region either comprises a rising edge with an increasing axial electric DC field or a falling edge with a decreasing axial electric DC field and wherein the slope of the electric field strength along the axis is not constant at a substantial portion of the edge. |
| US09304105B2 |
Control device for oxygen concentration sensor
A control device for controlling an oxygen concentration sensor includes: a voltage sweeping unit for applying a voltage to the sensor for a time interval during an impedance detection process; a pre-sweeping voltage memory for storing a terminal voltage of the sensor as an initial terminal voltage just before applying the voltage; an impedance detection unit for detecting an element impedance; a voltage returning unit for returning the terminal voltage to the initial terminal voltage after a predetermined time interval has elapsed; a monitoring unit for monitoring the terminal voltage after the voltage returning unit starts returning the terminal voltage; a determination unit for determining whether a monitored terminal voltage of the sensor reaches a stored terminal voltage in the memory; and a stop unit for stopping a returning operation of the voltage returning unit when the monitored terminal voltage reaches the stored terminal voltage. |
| US09304103B2 |
Self-calibrating ion meter
An ion meter is calibrated by providing two ISFETS with different areas, where the two gate areas are used to calibrate the two ISFETS with respect to one another. The use of two ISFET gates that can be calibrated with respect to one another eliminates the need for an ion meter to be recalibrated before every use, and allows the ion meter to measure the concentration in the solution over an extended period of time. |
| US09304101B1 |
Method of sensor conditioning for improving signal output stability for mixed gas measurements
An improved pulse discharge technique is provided which continuously measures a gas sensor's impedance at elevated temperatures. The present invention is characterized in that the measured impedance values are used to control said sensor's operating temperature within a defined temperature range or to monitor said sensor's operating temperature via impedance monitoring. |
| US09304100B2 |
Miniaturised electrochemical sensor
A miniaturised electrochemical sensor for detection of a component in a gas is provided. The sensor comprises a reference electrode, a counter electrode and a structure comprising a plurality of passages delineated by walls extending along the passages. A working electrode covers the walls of the structure and a layer of an ionomer covers at least part of the working electrode along the walls of the structure. The layer of ionomer is in ion conducting contact with the electrodes. The disclosure further relates to a method of fabricating a miniaturised electrochemical sensor and to a device for measuring content of NO in exhaled breath comprising such a miniaturised electrochemical sensor. |
| US09304099B2 |
Electrochemical test sensor with reduced sample volume
An electrochemical test sensor for detecting the analyte concentration of a fluid test sample includes a base, a dielectric layer, a reagent layer and a lid. The base provides a flow path for the test sample having on its surface a counter electrode and a working electrode adapted to electrically communicate with a detector of electrical current. The dielectric layer forms a dielectric window therethrough. The reagent layer includes an enzyme that is adapted to react with the analyte. The lid is adapted to mate with the base and to assist in forming a capillary space with an opening for the introduction of the test sample thereto. At least a portion of the width of the counter electrode is greater than the width of the working electrode. |
| US09304096B2 |
Method of measuring a capacitance
A method of measuring a capacitance (C) of a sensor having a working electrode that is coated by an insulating layer and a ligand forming an affinity surface. The method involves the steps of bringing the electrode into contact with an analyte, supplying a constant first current (I1), and a constant second current (I2) of opposite direction to the first current (I1), and a constant third current (I3) of same direction as the first current (I1) during determined time periods to the sensor. Further the method includes sampling the potential (V) built up across the sensor, and calculating the capacitance of the sensor from the inclination (B, D, F, H) of a potential curve received in response to the current supply. A method used for detection of an interaction between a ligand and an analyte is also disclosed. |
| US09304095B2 |
Dosimetry via platinum—ruthenium nanoparticle-decorated nanostructure
A dosimeter includes a platinum-ruthenium (PtRu) nanoparticle-decorated, -coated, or -deposited carbon nanostructure element. The PtRu nanoparticle-decorated carbon nanostructure element is foulably sensitive to a gas. |
| US09304092B2 |
Apparatus for examining test bodies
The invention relates to an apparatus (1) for examining test bodies (P), in particular electronic subassemblies and electronic devices, comprising at least one radiation source (2) for X-raying at least one test body (P), at least one detection unit (3) for detecting radiation (S) emitted by means of the radiation source (2), at least one holding element (4) for holding the at least one test body (P) and for positioning the latter between the radiation source (2) and the detection unit (3), and a movement unit (5), coupled to the holding element (4), for moving the holding element (4), wherein the movement unit (5) is constructed as a parallel-mechanism movement unit. |
| US09304089B2 |
System and method for obtaining images with offset utilized for enhanced edge resolution
A method in a machine vision inspection system for obtaining two images of a workpiece with a desired sub-pixel offset between the images. The images are acquired using a fast multiple image acquisition mode of operation of a camera in the machine vision inspection system. In various implementations, the method includes removing the offset between the images such that the workpiece is congruent in the images and combining the congruent image data. The combined image data has a resolution better than that allowed by the native resolution of a camera that acquires images in the machine vision inspection system. The method may be implemented in an edge feature video tool for measuring edge features on the workpiece. The motion direction utilized for obtaining the two images may be made to be transverse to the edge direction of an edge that is being measured. |
| US09304086B2 |
Raman spectrometry method and Raman spectrometry apparatus
A surface enhanced Raman spectrometry apparatus is constituted by: a transparent substrate; a metal member that causes surface enhanced Raman scattering to occur, formed on a surface of the transparent substrate; a pressing mechanism that presses a sample placed in contact with the metal member against the metal member; a measuring light irradiating optical system that irradiates a measuring light beam onto the sample through the transparent substrate; and a light detecting section that spectrally detects Raman scattered light, which is generated when the measuring light beam is irradiated onto the sample, through the transparent substrate. |
| US09304085B2 |
Laser scanning microscope system and method of setting laser-light intensity value
A method of setting a laser-light intensity value includes: emitting laser light, the laser light being excitation light, a fluorescent-dyed biological sample being irradiated with the excitation light and emitting light; detecting fluorescence emitted by the biological sample, and outputting a signal corresponding to a brightness value; prestoring relation information, the relation information including the plurality of laser-light intensity values, and information on at least one possible correlation between a phototoxicity degree and the brightness value in relation to each of the laser-light intensity values, the phototoxicity to the biological sample resulting from the laser light; generating a fluorescence image having the brightness value based on the output signal; calculating a brightness value representative of a ROI area based on the generated fluorescence image; and referring to the relation information, and determining a laser-light intensity value satisfying tolerance of the phototoxicity based on the calculated representative brightness value. |
| US09304083B2 |
Optical detection device and image forming apparatus including the same
An optical detection device includes a light emitting element, a light receiving element, a housing including a first aperture and a second aperture, wherein light emitted from the light emitting element reaches the light receiving element through the second aperture after passing through the first aperture and being reflected by an irradiated surface, and a slope provided in the housing and inclined in an array direction of the light emitting element and the light receiving element, as viewed in a normal direction of the irradiated surface, wherein the slope is provided at a portion on an upstream side of the first aperture in an emission direction of light from the light emitting element, the portion faces the light emitting element in the array direction, and light emitted from the light emitting element enters the portion. |
| US09304082B2 |
Information acquiring apparatus and information acquiring method for acquiring information on specimen by using terahertz wave
An information acquiring apparatus that acquires information on a specimen by applying terahertz wave to the specimen through a plate-like member, the specimen being provided between a reflecting member having a reflecting surface and the plate-like member. The apparatus includes an applying unit that applies the terahertz wave to the specimen, a detecting unit that detects the terahertz wave reflected from the specimen, and an information acquiring unit that acquires the information on the specimen by using temporal waveforms acquired from a result of detection performed by the detecting unit, the information acquiring unit using at least a temporal waveform representing a portion of the terahertz wave that is reflected by an interface between the plate-like member and the specimen and a temporal waveform representing a portion of the terahertz wave that is reflected by an interface between the specimen and the reflecting surface of the reflecting member. |
| US09304081B2 |
Ice and water detection system
A system for detecting ice or water within an area of interest having a detection system measuring radiance or reflectance of the area of interest when exposed to shortwave infrared radiation having a wavelength in the range containing a crossover point between the curves representing the absorption of electromagnetic radiation by ice and water. The detection system measures the radiance or reflectance in a first band having a wavelength in a spectral band on a first side of the crossover point and outputting a first band signal, and further measures the radiance or reflectance in a second band having a wavelength in a spectral band on a second opposing side of the same crossover point and outputting a second band signal. A processing unit determines a ratio of the first band signal and the second band signal and compares the ratio to a predetermined critical ratio and outputs a determination signal indicating presence of ice or water. |
| US09304076B2 |
Cleaning equipment of sample bottle for chromatography analysis and cleaning method thereof
A cleaning equipment of sample bottle for chromatography analysis comprising: a base; a support frame vertically fixed to the base; a horizontal column having two ends, wherein one of the ends is disposed at the support frame through an adjustment knob; a rotary drive device fixed to the other end of the horizontal columns; a rotation disk which can rotate through driving of the rotary drive device, and a side edge of the rotation disk provides with multiple placing holes for receiving and fixing sample bottles; a cleaning agent recycling tank disposed below the rotation disk, wherein a side wall of it provides with an ejector pipe connected with a water pump; and a control unit for controlling on/off and rotation speed of the rotary drive device, and on/off of the water pump. The invention also provides a cleaning method of sample bottle for chromatography analysis. |
| US09304069B2 |
Apparatus for working on histological samples
The invention relates to an apparatus for treatment of histological samples. The apparatus includes at least a working station, in which the sample gets into contact with a liquid reagent. Further, the apparatus includes a purification device, which blows off at least a part of the reagent adhering to the sample and/or the sample holding arrangement by means of a gas flow, or which sucks off at least a part of the reagent adhering to the sample and/or a sample holding arrangement. |
| US09304067B2 |
Methods, apparatus and systems for production, collection, handling, and imaging of tissue sections
Methods, apparatus and systems for collecting thin tissue samples for imaging. Thin tissue sections may be cut from tissue samples using a microtome-quality knife. In one example, tissue samples are mounted to a substrate that is rotated such that thin tissue sections are acquired via lathing. Collection of thin tissue sections may be facilitated by a conveyor belt. Thin tissue sections may be mounted to a thin substrate (e.g., by adhering thin tissue sections to a thin substrate via a roller mechanism) that may be imaged, for example, by an electron beam (e.g., in an electron microscope). Thin tissue sections may be strengthened before cutting via a blockface thinfilm deposition technique and/or a blockface taping technique. An automated reel-to-reel imaging technique may be employed for collected/mounted tissue sections to facilitate random-access imaging of tissue sections and maintaining a comprehensive library including a large volume of samples. |
| US09304066B2 |
Fluidically integrated rotary bead beader
A system for at least one of homogenization and lysis of a sample includes one or more walls forming an enclosed chamber having an inlet and a plurality of fluidic connections. A first fluidic network is coupled to at least one of the plurality of fluidic connections and a second fluidic network is coupled to at least one of the plurality of fluidic connections. The system further includes a rotary element within the chamber, and an actuator configured to rotate the rotary element. The first fluidic network is configured to introduce at least a sample into the chamber from at least one first reservoir. The second fluidic network is configured to expel at least the sample from the chamber to at least one second reservoir. The rotary element is rotated by the actuator about an axis extending along a length of the rotary element. |
| US09304065B2 |
Methods, systems and devices for multiple single-cell capturing and processing using microfluidics
Methods, systems, and devices are described for multiple single-cell capturing and processing utilizing microfluidics. Tools and techniques are provided for capturing, partitioning, and/or manipulating individual cells from a larger population of cells along with generating genetic information and/or reactions related to each individual cell. Different capture configurations may be utilized to capture individual cells and then processing each individual cell in a multi-chamber reaction configuration. Some embodiments may provide for specific target amplification, whole genome amplification, whole transcriptome amplification, real-time PCR preparation, copy number variation, preamplification, mRNA sequencing, and/or haplotyping of the multiple individual cells that have been partitioned from the larger population of cells. Some embodiments may provide for other applications. Some embodiments may be configured for imaging the individual cells or associated reaction products as part of the processing. Reaction products may be harvested and/or further analyzed in some cases. |
| US09304064B2 |
Knife holder having a blade changing apparatus
The invention relates to a knife holder (100) having a blade changing apparatus (102). The knife holder has a first blade receptacle (111) defining a cutting position, a securing device (130, 141, 142) for securing a blade (201) received in the first blade receptacle (111), a second blade receptacle (112) defining an output position, and an ejection device (141, 143, 144a) for ejecting a blade (201) received in the first blade receptacle (111) out of the first blade receptacle (111). The first and the second blade receptacles are arranged in the knife holder in such a way that a blade ejected from the first blade receptacle (111) can travel by gravity into the second blade receptacle (112). |
| US09304061B2 |
Methods and systems for diagnostics of an emission system with more than one SCR region
Methods and systems for controlling and/or diagnosing an emission control system of a vehicle having a first SCR region upstream of a second SCR region are provided herein. One exemplary method includes, indicating degradation based on a first SCR region performance during a first condition; and indicating degradation based on a second SCR region performance during a second condition, the first condition different than the second condition. In this way, different levels of degradation among different SCR regions may be used to indicate emissions levels have increased above a threshold value, for example. |
| US09304060B2 |
Wire retention clip
A wire retention clip includes a first compartment for allowing at least a first wire to pass through the compartment uninterrupted and for retaining the at least one wire to the wire retention clip. The wire retention clip also includes a second compartment that is distinct from the first compartment and contains and electronic device. |
| US09304059B2 |
Spark plug with combustion sensor
A spark plug assembly has a ceramic insulator with a metal outer shell surrounding at least a portion of the insulator. A ground electrode is operatively attached to the outer shell and a center electrode having an elongate body extends through the insulator. The center electrode and the ground electrode provide a spark gap. A force sensor is received about the insulator. An annular inner shell is received between the outer shell and the insulator, wherein the inner shell has a surface configured to confront the insulator along an axial direction. |
| US09304057B2 |
Device and method for testing rigidity and non-linear relationship of coupling interface for cylindrical fitting
A device and a method for testing the rigidity and non-linear relationship of the coupling interface for cylindrical fitting including an axial loading assembly which is provided along a horizontal central line within a side wall of a frame test bench and contacting with the test-piece shaft via a steel ball, a radial loading assembly downward provided along a vertical central line of top board of the frame test bench, a tip of a perpendicular loading part of the radial loading assembly extending into the outer housing of the test-piece housing fixed on an upper plane of a bottom wall of the frame test bench, with the test-piece shaft and the test-piece housing fitted and connected to each other via a coupling interface for cylindrical fitting; a plurality of displacement sensors fixed on the test-piece housing, and test heads of respective displacement sensor assembly aiming at the test-piece shaft. |
| US09304050B2 |
Temperature measurement apparatus and method
A temperature measurement apparatus includes a light source; a first splitter that splits a light beam into a measurement beam and a reference beam; a reference beam reflector that reflects the reference beam; an optical path length adjustor; a second splitter that splits the reflected reference beam into a first reflected reference beam and a second reflected reference beam; a first photodetector that measures an interference between the first reflected reference beam and a reflected measurement beam obtained by the measurement beam reflected from a target object; a second photodetector that measures an intensity of the second reflected reference beam; and a temperature calculation unit. The temperature calculation unit calculates a location of the interference by subtracting an output signal of the second photodetector from an output signal of the first photodetector, and calculates a temperature of the target object from the calculated location of the interference. |
| US09304049B2 |
Temperature measuring device, electric appliance having such a temperature measuring device and method for temperature measuring
A temperature measuring device for an electric appliance such as a fryer includes at least one temperature sensor in the form of an electric resistor, to which at least two different measuring voltages can be applied with cyclic switching between the measuring voltages. The temperature sensor is connected to a control, which includes a microcontroller and which is configured for applying at least two different measuring voltages to the temperature sensor. |
| US09304047B2 |
Technology and device for precisely measuring temperature of cable joint on the basis of radio frequency technique
The invention provides a method and a device for on-line measuring the inner temperature of a cable joint, the device includes a built-in temperature measurer and an outside receiver. The built-in temperature measurer measures the temperature of the cable joint or a core wire surface by means of direct contact measuring method, and transmits the data to the outside receiver through an insulating layer by means of the radio frequency identification technique. At the same time, the outside receiver supplies power energy to the built-in temperature measurer by means of the radio frequency signal, so it resolves the problem of supplying power to the built-in temperature measurer. The device of the invention has the advantage of accurately measuring temperature, small volume, superior applicability and so on. |
| US09304046B2 |
Sensor system and method for characterizing a coated body
A method of characterizing a coated body by at least one coating parameter based on fitting to a physical model is provided. The coated body includes a substrate coated by a polymeric coating such as a paint film, the polymeric coating having at least one layer. The method is carried out by a sensor system in a non-contact manner, the sensor system including an emitter system for emitting THz radiation, a detector system for detecting THz radiation, and a processing unit operationally coupled to the emitter system and the detector system. The method includes: emitting, by the emitter system, a THz radiation signal towards the coated body such that the THz radiation interacts with the polymeric coating; and detecting, by the detector system, a response signal being the detected THz radiation signal having interacted with the polymeric coating. |
| US09304045B2 |
Temperature monitoring device for workflow monitoring system
A temperature monitoring device that can automatically collect temperature data and wirelessly interface with a workflow management system. The device is provided in a portable housing and incorporates one or more temperature sensors, such as a physical probe, infrared sensor, or RFID transceiver, along with an interface for wirelessly communicating with a host personal device that has been programmed with temperature management tasks. The device may be used to automatically collect temperatures and provide wirelessly provide the data to the host for monitoring and tracking as part of a comprehensive workflow management system that includes food safety monitoring and compliance programs. |
| US09304044B2 |
Motion detection
A motion sensor has at least two tiers of monitored volumes that are offset from each other. Electromagnetic radiation, such as infrared light, is directed from the monitored volumes onto at least two sets of detector elements having separate outputs on a pyroelectric substrate of an infrared detector. As a warm object, such as a human or an animal, moves through the monitored volumes, the warmth from the object causes the voltage on the outputs of the infrared detector to change. The resultant waveforms are compared and if the two waveforms have a phase relationship corresponding to a critical phase angle that is based on the pitch of the monitored volumes and the offset between the tiers of monitored volumes, an animal-immune motion indication is generated. |
| US09304042B2 |
Foreign object detection system and method suitable for source resonator of wireless energy transfer system
A system and method to detect a foreign object proximate to a source resonator that is part of a wireless energy transfer system. The wireless energy transfer system may be one used to wirelessly charge the batteries of an electric vehicle. Data from a visible light camera and a multiple zone temperature sensor are combined or fused to determine whether a foreign object, such a metallic object or an animal, is in the vicinity of, or in close proximity to, a source resonator. The system controls an electric current provided to the source resonator based on whether a foreign object is detected to reduce or inhibit energy emitted by the source resonator. The visible light camera may be a monochrome or color camera and the temperature sensor may be an infrared camera or a thermopile array. |
| US09304041B2 |
Atomic absorption spectrometer
An atomic absorption spectrometer, including: a light source combination; a detection device; a flame atomization device; a hydride generation device; a graphite furnace atomization device; and an adjustment mechanism. The flame atomization device includes a flame atomizer. The hydride generation device includes a hydride atomizer. The graphite furnace atomization device includes a graphite furnace atomizer. An axis of the flame atomizer, an axis of the hydride atomizer, and an axis of the graphite furnace atomizer are adjusted by the adjustment mechanism to coincide with an optical axis of the light source combination. |
| US09304040B2 |
Method and apparatus for multiplexed fabry-perot spectroscopy
A method of optical spectroscopy and a device for use in optical spectroscopy. The device includes a substrate, and a plurality of etalon cavities affixed to or coupled to the substrate. A signal is received from a Fabry-Perot interferometer. The signal is sampled using the device according to a generalized Nyquist-Shannon sampling criterion. The signal is sampled using the device according to a phase differential criterion for wave number resolution. An input spectrum for the signal is reconstructed based on the signal sampled according to the generalized Nyquist-Shannon sampling criterion and the signal sampled according to the phase differential criterion for wave number resolution. |
| US09304039B2 |
Integrated circuit for spectral imaging system
An integrated circuit for an imaging system is disclosed. In one aspect, an integrated circuit has an array of optical sensors, an array of optical filters integrated with the sensors and configured to pass a band of wavelengths onto one or more of the sensors, and read out circuitry to read out pixel values from the sensors to represent an image. Different ones of the optical filters are configured to have a different thickness, to pass different bands of wavelengths by means of interference, and to allow detection of a spectrum of wavelengths. The read out circuitry can enable multiple pixels under one optical filter to be read out in parallel. The thicknesses may vary non monotonically across the array. The read out, or later image processing, may involve selection or interpolation between wavelengths, to carry out spectral sampling or shifting, to compensate for thickness errors. |
| US09304036B2 |
Beam profiler measuring intensity distribution of laser beam, laser oscillator, and laser processing device
A beam profiler which can determine whether or not a laser beam can be suitably output at a lower cost. The beam profiler is provided with a partial reflecting mirror, light receiving parts, and laser intensity sensors which are individually attached to the light receiving parts. The light receiving parts include a first light receiving part which receives a first region which includes an optical axis of the laser beam in a laser irradiation region of the laser beam and a second light receiving part which is insulated heat-wise from the first light receiving part and which receives a second region of a laser irradiation region which is different from the first region. |
| US09304032B2 |
Hollow profile for a weight-in-motion sensor
A WIM (weigh-in-motion) sensor has an oblong hollow profile and includes two force-transmission plates arranged parallel to each other. A tube is arranged between the plates and is integrally formed with the plates and defines a hollow space. Two supports that are arranged opposite one another are formed inside the hollow space, each support extending away from a respective plate and between which a measuring element is received centrally in the tube under preload. The tube includes two tube segments designed to be mirror-symmetrical with respect to each other, which join the plates together and on the inside adjoin the hollow space. The wall thickness of each tube segment has a relatively thick region between at least two relatively thin regions. |
| US09304031B1 |
Fiber optic weight management mat
A weight management mat for passively and automatically monitoring weight for one or more individuals in a household. The weight management mat generally includes a housing having an upper mat and a lower mat between which is sealed a pair of perpendicular sensor arrays. Each sensor array includes fiber optic cables laid out in a grid pattern. One or more microbend inducers act to induce detectable microbends in the fiber optic cables when an individual steps on the upper mat. The change in light intensity caused by these microbends is recorded by photodetectors and processed by a microcontroller. The present invention may be utilized to identify each unique individual stepping on the present invention by the pressure map of their feet. Thus, recorded weight measurements may be tracked to aid in weight management. |
| US09304030B2 |
Flow rate control device
A mass flow controller comprises a flow rate measuring part that measures a flow rate of a fluid flowing in a flow channel and outputs a measured flow rate value, a control valve, a valve control part that controls an opening degree of the control valve based on an entirely-close command to entirely close the control valve compulsorily or a set flow rate value set as a target value, and an external output part that outputs an external output flow rate value based on the measured flow rate value to the outside, and at a time when the valve control part receives the entirely close command or zero as the set flow rate value, the external output part outputs zero as the external output flow rate value, irrespective of the measured flow rate value. |
| US09304027B2 |
Angled gauge head for liquid level sending unit
A tilted gauge head for indicating liquid level within a container is operatively connectable to a liquid level sending unit. The gauge head includes a mounting base adapted for connection to the container, an indicator dial assembly operatively connectable to the liquid level sending unit for indicating liquid level, and at least one bracket with a rear mounting wall connected to the mounting base and a front mounting wall connected to the indicator dial assembly. The mounting walls are oriented at an acute angle with respect to each other such that the indicator dial assembly is oriented or tilted at the acute angle with respect to the mounting base. In this manner, the indicator dial assembly can more easily be viewed by a user from an angle to thereby reduce parallax reading errors. |
| US09304023B2 |
Flow meter with acoustic array
The present invention provides a flow meter for a pipe or open channel. The flow meter has a longitudinal member adapted to be inserted into the pipe or open channel but free of any internal wall of the pipe or open channel. The longitudinal member has a plurality of pairs of acoustic transducers located there around, with each pair of acoustic transducers having a transmitting transducer and a receiving transducer. The transmitting transducer sends an acoustic signal to an internal wall of the pipe or open channel and the receiving transducer receives the reflected acoustic signal. |
| US09304016B2 |
Encoder device for optical detection of movement or position
An encoder device for optical detection of movement or position includes a first terminal for delivery of an electric measurement code signal. The encoder device further includes a first printed circuit board, a detector mounted on the first printed circuit board, and a code device provided with a pattern. The detector and the code device are displaceable relative to each other, wherein the detector is adapted to generate the electric measurement code signal in dependence on the relative displacement. The detector includes at least one light-sensitive semiconductor chip having a first light-sensitive chip surface and a second chip surface on opposing sides. The first light-sensitive chip surface has a first chip contact area for an electrical connection. The encoder device further includes a second printed circuit board positioned between the detector and the code device, wherein the second printed circuit board is shaped so as to allow the passage of light from the code device to the first light-sensitive chip surface. The second printed circuit board has a first PCB contact area connected to the terminal, wherein the first PCB contact area is connected to the first chip contact area by solder, electrically conducting glue, ohmic contact, etc. |
| US09304014B2 |
Systems and methods for temperature compensation in a utility meter
Systems and methods for temperature compensation in a utility meter are provided. According to one embodiment of the disclosure, there is disclosed a method. The method can include receiving, from a sensor of a device, a temperature and a current associated with a first portion of the device. The method can also include determining, based at least in part on a correlation between at least one prior measured temperature and current associated with the first portion of the device and a prior measured temperature and current associated with a second portion of the device, a predicted temperature associated with the second portion of the device. |
| US09304005B2 |
Application programming interface (API) for navigation applications that merges incremental updates with existing map database
A system and method for efficiently updating the map database in a mobile computing system, such as a vehicle navigation system. The system includes a central server that computes changes between the latest version of a master map database and a previous version of the map database, and wirelessly transmits the changes to participating vehicles' onboard navigation systems. The navigation system stores the changes in a look-aside buffer, and a navigation processor uses the stored changes to update a base map database. |
| US09304003B1 |
Augmented reality navigation
A computing device includes a location sensor system including sensor(s) configured to measure one or more parameters of a surrounding environment, a pose-tracking engine configured to determine a current pose of the computing device based on the one or more measured parameters of the surrounding environment, a graphing engine configured to access a traversability graph including a plurality of vertices each having a local coordinate system, a navigation engine configured to identify a nearby vertex of the traversability graph to the current pose, and configured to determine a path of traversable edges between the nearby vertex and a destination vertex of the traversability graph, and a display configured to visually present as an overlay to the environment a navigation visualization corresponding to the path. |
| US09303998B2 |
System and method for automatically generating vehicle guidance waypoints and waylines
A guidance system for a mobile machine includes a location determining device for determining a location of the machine, a user interface and a controller. The controller is configured to receive location information from the location determining device, detect a path followed by the machine using the location information and, as the machine travels the path, receive waypoint information from a user via the user interface indicating a plurality of initial waypoints associated with the path. The controller is further configured to present the initial waypoints to the user, receive selected waypoint information from the user via the user interface indicating one or more of the initial waypoints as selected waypoints, and automatically guide the machine using the one or more selected waypoints. |
| US09303996B2 |
Point of interest location determination based on application usage
Techniques of determining a point of interest (POI) location using anonymous application usage data are described. A POI location determination system can determine geographic coordinates of a POI based on anonymous application usage data received from multiple mobile devices. The system can associate an application program with a POI. The anonymous application usage data can include an identifier or a category of the application program launched by the mobile devices, and a device location of each mobile device at time of launching the application program. Based on the device locations, the system can determine that launching of the application program is concentrated in a geographic area. The system can designate a centroid of the geographic area as a location of the POI. |
| US09303995B2 |
Gyroscopic sensor
The invention relates to an gyroscopic sensor comprising a sensitive element designed to vibrate; an electrode carrier capable of carrying excitation/detection electrodes for exciting the sensitive element and for detecting the vibration of the sensitive element; and elements for supporting the electrode carrier. The supporting elements comprise a base made of a material having a density of less than 5 kg/dm3, and the square root of the ratio of Young's modulus divided by said density is greater than 9 GPa1/2.dm3/2/kg−1/2. |
| US09303988B2 |
Image measurement apparatus, image measurement method and image measurement program
Two-dimensional measurement is allowed with a small error even in the case where a difference occurs between a measurement plane for a workpiece and a plane with calibrated external parameters. When the workpiece 2 is gripped by a holding device 3, an image measurement apparatus 1 calculates the difference between the calibration plane 17 where the external parameters are calibrated and the measurement plane 20 for the workpiece 2. The image measurement apparatus 1 corrects the external parameters such that the calibration plane 17 coincides with the measurement plane 20, and two-dimensionally measures the workpiece 2 using the corrected external parameters. |
| US09303987B2 |
Tilt angle detecting device
The invention provides a tilt angle detecting device which has a two-liquid tube (19), comprising a transparent container (16) containing a first liquid (17) and a second liquid (18) having different property, specific gravity, and optical transmissivity from each other, wherein a movement occurs between the first liquid and the second liquid by tilting of the transparent container. |
| US09303986B2 |
Navigation assistance based on visual codes
Visual codes are scanned to assist navigation. The visual code may be a Quick Response (QR) code that contains information useful to calibrating a variety of navigation-based sensors such as gyroscopes, e-compasses, and barometric pressure sensors. |
| US09303985B2 |
System and method for controlling scanning planes of imaging device
This patent indicates a type of system and method for controlling scanning planes of imaging device, it includes: tracer, on which a tracer coordinate system is built, is fixed on the target which is to be scanned; a tracking device, on which a tracking device coordinate system is built, is used to get the position and orientation of the tracer in the tracking device coordinate system and convert the known position and orientation of the target which is to be scanned from the tracer coordinate system to the tracking device coordinate system; an imaging device, on which an imaging device coordinate system is built, is used to scan the position and orientation of the said target to be scanned in the imaging device coordinate system to form images; a conversion module, which is preset in the tracking device or the imaging device, is used to convert the position and orientation of the target which is to be scanned from the tracking device coordinate system to the imaging device coordinate system; when the conversion module is preset in the tracking device, the tracking device transfers the position and orientation of the target which is to be scanned in the tracking device coordinate system to the imaging device. This patent has the ability to provide high efficiency, and high precision when scanning target image, it can be used at any type of image devices. |
| US09303984B2 |
Method and apparatus for detecting distance between vehicles
An apparatus for detecting a lead distance between a user vehicle and a target vehicle includes first and second position sensitive devices (PSD) arranged in the user vehicle orthogonal to the distance and each having first and second light receivers configured to receive light emitted from the target vehicle, in which the first and second PSDs output voltage corresponding intensity of light received by the first and second light receivers, and a controller configured to receive voltages output from the first and second PSDs and calculate the distance using Equation 1: L=(KD/d)/(v1−v2). |
| US09303983B2 |
Sealant analysis system
A method and apparatus for inspecting sealant on an object. First data is generated for a first geometry of a first surface of the object prior to sealing the object. Second data is generated for a second geometry of a second surface of the object after the sealant has been applied to the object. A difference is identified between the first data and the second data. The difference indicates a thickness of the sealant on the object. |
| US09303981B2 |
Position-measuring device
A position-measuring device includes a scale and a scanning unit movable relative thereto. The scale has a measuring graduation, a reference mark and area markings located on a first and on a second side of the reference mark which are configured to exert different deflection effects on a scanning beam incident thereon. An area signal detector is configured to detect, during optical scanning of the area markings, a fringe pattern in a detection plane of the area signal detector. A periodic screen grating is disposed between the scale and the area signal detector and is configured to produce the fringe pattern in the detection plane of the area signal detector such that at least two distinguishable scanning signals are generatable from the fringe pattern as a function of a position of the scanning unit relative to the reference mark. |
| US09303974B2 |
Angular resolution of images using photons having non-classical states
A method, apparatus, and system for improving the angular resolution of an image. A plurality of photon beams originating from a scene are received at a sensor system. Each of the plurality of photon beams is interfered with a corresponding source photon beam in a plurality of source photon beams to form a plurality of interference beams. Each of the plurality of source photon beams has a non-classical state. Fluctuations in a photon-number of the each of the plurality of source photon beams are reduced to within selected tolerances. An output signal is formed based on the plurality of interference beams. The output signal is configured for use in generating an image of the scene. |
| US09303968B2 |
Lever type measuring machine
A lever-type measuring machine swinging around a supporting point includes a stylus measuring a shape of a measured object, an arm having a first end connected to the stylus and a second end connected to the supporting point, and a balancer having a first end connected to the supporting point. The balancer is formed of a material having high specific flexural rigidity. The lever-type measuring machine enables more accurate measurement. |
| US09303967B2 |
End tang structure of roll-up tape measure
A structure of a tang of a roll-up tape measure includes a tang base and a tang plate formed at one side of the tang base. The tang base includes a plurality of tang coupling slots formed in one side thereof for coupling a measure ribbon and for positional adjustment of a reference point and also includes a tang hook formed at one end thereof. The tang hook includes a first hook section and a second hook section extending in opposite direction. The tang plate includes a receiving slot formed in one side thereof. The receiving slot receives and retains a magnetic element. The receiving slot includes, at one side thereof, at least one magnetic element for constraining and preventing the constraint stop from detachment. |
| US09303965B1 |
Primer installation device
A primer installation device provides consistent placement of a primer in an ammunition shell. The device includes a ram rod coupled to and positioned in a housing. An elevator is coupled to the housing. A position of the elevator is adjustable relative to the housing. The elevator is structured to comprise a conduit. A shell holder is coupled to the elevator. A loading pin is operationally coupled to the ram rod wherein operation of the ram rod extends the loading pin through the conduit in the elevator and through the shell holder such that the loading pin is configured for installing a primer into a shell positioned in the shell holder. Full extension of the loading pin is determined by physical obstruction of operation of the ram rod. |
| US09303962B1 |
Expanding broadhead
An expanding broadhead preferably includes a shank base, a razor tip, at least one expanding barb unit, a rear retention ring and a front retention ring. An arrow shaft shank extends from one end of the shank base and a tip slot formed in an opposing end to receive the razor tip. Each expanding barb unit preferably includes two barb elements that extend from a base ring. Each barb element preferably includes a lengthwise barb base, a first set of opposing barbs, a second set of opposing barbs and opposing bulges. The two lengthwise barb bases are bent to obtuse angles. The base ring of the expanding barb unit is bent into a substantially semi-circular shape. The rear retention ring is forced over the base ring to retain thereof on the base shank. The front retention ring is stretched and placed over the at least two barb elements. |
| US09303960B2 |
Electronic target for simulated shooting
The present invention is directed to an electronic target for use with a pulsed beam of laser light. The electronic target may include a housing, which includes a window and a solar cell. The solar cell may be disposed in the window for receiving a pulsed beam of light that may be emitted from a gun barrel or simulated weapon. The beam of light may have a predominant wavelength of between approximately 635 nm and 650 nm, as well as a pulse duration of between 1 ms and 50 ms, and a pulse modulation frequency of approximately 2 KHz. The electronic target may be tuned to the emission characteristics of the beam of light. The electronic target may be used to count a user's consecutive hits, drill how quickly a user can place a shot of laser light on the electronic target, and simulate a magazine change or burst shooting. |
| US09303955B2 |
Locking mechanism for a small arm accessory
A fixing mechanism includes a mounting plate of a small arm accessory, a fixing member and an adjusting member. The mounting plate has a surface that faces the small arm when the mounting plate is fixed to the small arm. A first direction is defined as normal to the surface. The fixing member extends from the surface of the mounting plate in the first direction. The fixing member includes an aperture defined therein having an axis that defines a second direction different from the first direction. The adjusting member provides a fixing force to fix the small arm accessory to the small arm when inserted into the aperture of the fixing member. |
| US09303953B2 |
Digital system for the detection of variations in operating conditions of an integrated circuit
A system for detecting tamper events in a digital circuit by having a Critical Path Replica (CPR) circuit operable in parallel with the circuit being monitored, and adjusted to generate a timing violation if the operating parameters of the circuit change to be outside the normal operating parameters. The critical path replica circuit is adjusted to generate a timing violation before the actual circuit being monitored fails due to the changed operating parameters. |
| US09303946B2 |
Swivel cable guard
A cable guard for a compound archery bow includes a body and a cable retaining member connected to the body by a joint. The cable retaining member may retain at least one cable of an archery bow. The body of the cable guard has a length sufficient to position the joint at least at the drawn position of at least one of the cables retained by the cable retaining member. The joint connecting the cable retaining member to the body of the cable guard permits the opening of the cable retaining member to swivel forwards towards the mounting portion. Swiveling forward, the opening of the cable retaining members brings at least one of the retained cables closer to the bowstring plane of travel of the bow to which it is mounted. |
| US09303941B2 |
Laser training shooting device for a firearm
A laser training shooting device adaptable for use in varying caliber barrels of a firearm insertable in said barrels simulating firing of the firearm without actuation of a trigger or a firing pin of the firearm. The laser device consisting of: a laser module composed of a transmitting assembly and optics package; a spud adapter in communication with the laser module, said spud adapter having contact beads for frictional engagement and alignment within said firearm barrel; and, an electrical lead having a means of attachment at a first end to the laser module and a micro-switch disposed within a trigger ring or a trigger hook at a second end positioned at the trigger of said firearm. The laser device being activated by pressing the micro-switch causing the emission of a laser light from the laser module. |
| US09303940B2 |
Systems, methods, and apparatus for supporting a firearm
A firearm support is disclosed herein. The firearm support may include a main body assembly, at least two legs operably attached to the main body assembly, and a mounting assembly operably attached to the main body assembly. The mounting assembly may include an attachment mechanism operable to attach a firearm to the mounting assembly, a pan mechanism operable to control an angular rotation about a first axis of the mounting assembly, and a cant mechanism operable to control an angular rotation about a second axis of the mounting assembly. |
| US09303939B1 |
Tunable muzzle brake
The present disclosure provides, in part, new muzzle brakes, kits, and weapons systems (e.g., rifles) that allow for incremental adjustment of the ports of a muzzle brake so that the muzzle brake can be tuned for the user and firearm system. In certain aspects, the present disclosure provides muzzle brake plugs having an interior surface defining a plug bore that extends at least partially through the thickness of the muzzle brake plug and muzzle brakes having a plurality of side ports extending laterally away from a central bore and arranged to replaceably receive muzzle brake plugs. A bottom wall closing the plug bore of a muzzle brake plug can be selectively drilled or punch-out to create or enlarge an opening with the plug bore, thus allowing a shooter to tune the muzzle brake to the firearm system. |
| US09303936B2 |
Frame assembly for striker-fired pistol
A frame assembly for facilitating disassembly of a striker-fired pistol is disclosed. The frame assembly facilitates removal of the slide from a striker-fired pistol without trigger manipulation and with minimized potential for a round to be chambered. The frame assembly includes a takedown safety lever and a takedown actuation lever. Movement of the takedown safety lever causes the sear to be moved such that subsequent slide motion will not result in the storage of striker energy. Movement of the takedown safety lever is only possible while the slide is refracted beyond the point at which a chambered round would be ejected. Removal of the slide does not require pulling the trigger. The positioning of the takedown safety lever motion for disassembly may be precluded by the presence of a magazine in the gun, thereby eliminating the possibility that a round could be chambered during subsequent slide motion. |
| US09303926B2 |
Condenser fin structures facilitating vapor condensation cooling of coolant
Vapor condensers and cooling apparatuses facilitating vapor condensation cooling of a coolant employed in cooling an electronic device or electronic subsystem. The vapor condenser includes a thermally conductive base structure having an operational orientation when the condenser is facilitating vapor condensate formation, and a plurality of thermally conductive condenser fins extending from the thermally conductive base structure. The plurality of thermally conductive condenser fins have a varying cross-sectional perimeter along at least a portion of their length. The cross-sectional perimeters of the plurality of thermally conductive condenser fins are configured to increase in a direction of condensate travel through the thermally conductive base structure. |
| US09303924B1 |
Multi-segmented tube sheet
A heat exchanger that is constructed with a heat exchanger shell having inlet and outlet plenums and fluid inlet and outlet ports, and a tube sheet construction disposed in the heat exchanger shell. The tube sheet construction includes at least two separate tube sheets and a plurality of tubes that extend between the separate tube sheets. Each tube sheet includes at least two planar tube sheet segments and an interstitial layer disposed between the at least two tube sheet segments, and at least one sensor element supported by each of the interstitial layers. A control monitor controls flow through the shell by a feedback control from the sensor to an inlet control valve and/or a stimulus device excites the media layer. |
| US09303921B2 |
Oxidation furnace
An oxidation furnace for the oxidative treatment of fibers having a processing chamber which can be found in the interior of a housing; at least one blowing device; at least one suction device; at least one ventilator that circulates the hot air through the blowing device, the processing chamber, and the suction device; and at least one heating device that lies in the flow path of the hot circulated air. Deviating rollers guide the fibers in a serpentine manner through the processing chamber such that the fibers lie next to one another as a carpet, the fiber carpet being stretched between each opposing deviating roller over one plane. The air in the processing chamber crosses the planes over which the fiber carpet is stretched at an angle that differs from 0° and 90° using special means. |
| US09303920B2 |
Air diverting system for a seed drying bin
An air diverting system for a seed dryer bin having a duct connected to and in communication with openings in the seed bin and a fan. An airflow diverter assembly rotatably mounted within the duct and having a handle for rotating the assembly to a desired position. |
| US09303918B2 |
Process for drying a wet film with control of loss on drying
The invention relates to a process for drying a wet film including the steps of: a) determining a desired loss on drying (LOD) for the wet film; b) determining a relationship between LOD and a rate of temperature rise of the wet film or a rate of change of the rate of temperature rise of the wet film; c) drying a wet film with continuous monitoring of the temperature of the wet film; and d) continuously adjusting one or more drying parameters to maintain the rate of temperature rise of the wet film or the rate of change of the rate of temperature rise of the wet film that produces the desired LOD. |
| US09303913B2 |
Refrigerator
Provided is a refrigerator. The refrigerator includes a cabinet defining a storage space, a heat exchange chamber defined in a side of the cabinet to receive an evaporator, an ice making compartment defined in at least one region of the storage space to define an insulation space for making ices; and a cool air duct connecting the heat exchange chamber to the ice making compartment to provide a passage for guiding a flow of cool air. The cool air duct includes a cover part defining inner and outer appearance of the cool air duct and an insulation part formed of an insulation material, the insulation part being disposed inside the cover part. |
| US09303910B2 |
Apparatus for forming a frozen liquid product
An apparatus for forming a frozen liquid product into a predetermined shape, such as a spherical or ball-shape, includes a body (or “housing”) comprising first and second sections relatively disposable into an open or closed orientation, through connection by an attachment assembly. A securing structure is associated with the attachment assembly and operative to maintain the first and second sections in the closed orientation concurrently to the securing structure being disposed in fluid sealing disposition to a hollow interior of the body. A single use connector removably connects the securing structure into the fluid sealing relation as it maintains the first and second sections in the closed orientation. |
| US09303904B2 |
Air-conditioning apparatus
An air-conditioning apparatus including a bypass pipe that branches off from a portion of a refrigerant pipe located at the refrigerant inlet side of a plurality of heat medium heat exchangers. The bypass pipe connects the refrigerant inlet side with a refrigerant outlet side of each of the plurality of heat medium heat exchangers in the cooling only operation mode. A flow switching device, disposed in the refrigerant pipe, on the outlet side of each of the plurality of heat medium heat exchangers and another flow switching device, disposed in the bypass pipe, on the refrigerant outlet side of each of the plurality of heat medium heat exchangers, cause refrigerant to flow in the bypass pipe in the cooling only operation mode. |
| US09303901B2 |
Method for controlling a vapour compression system
A method for controlling a vapor compression system, such as a refrigeration system, preferably an air condition system, comprising at least two evaporators. While monitoring a superheat (SH) at a common outlet for the evaporators, the amount of available refrigerant is controlled in response to the SH and in order to obtain an optimum SH value. The available refrigerant is distributed among the evaporators in accordance with a distribution key. The distribution key is preferably obtained while taking individual consideration to operating conditions for each of the evaporators into account. Thereby the vapor compression system can be operated in such a way that each of the evaporators is operated in an optimal manner, and in such a way that the system in general is operated in an optimal manner. |
| US09303894B2 |
Air filter
An air filter (1) which is intended for an air conditioning system, includes a disc type filter element (2) and a power unit (3), preferably an electric motor, which is connected to the filter element for rotating the same. The filter element is arranged in connection with a ventilation duct (4), such that it is placed outside an aperture (4a) of the ventilation duct (4) at a first distance therefrom, and such that it is concentric with the ventilation duct. The ventilation duct is supplied by way of the aperture with air (A) cleaned by the air filter. The air filter further includes a ring type collar (5), which is arranged outside the aperture of the ventilation duct at a second distance therefrom concentrically with the ventilation duct. The collar is adapted to widen towards the aperture (4a) and is most preferably in the shape of a truncated cone. |
| US09303889B2 |
Multiple environmental zone control via a central controller
An Electronically-Controlled Register vent (ECRV) that can be easily installed by a homeowner or general handyman is disclosed. The ECRV can be used to convert a non-zoned HVAC system into a zoned system. The ECRV can also be used in connection with a conventional zoned HVAC system to provide additional control and additional zones not provided by the conventional zoned HVAC system. In one embodiment, the ECRV is configured have a size and form-factor that conforms to a standard manually-controlled register vent. In one embodiment, a zone thermostat is configured to provide thermostat information to the ECRV. In one embodiment, the zone thermostat communicates with a central monitoring system that coordinates operation of the heating and cooling zones. |
| US09303888B2 |
Ventilation system and method
Embodiments of the invention provide a ventilation system comprising a housing. The housing includes an inlet through which air is received and the housing is capable of being installed within a structure. A ventilating assembly can be supported within an interior of the housing. The ventilating assembly can be operable to generate a flow of air and can be in fluid communication with the inlet. The system can include a thermal damper assembly comprising an aperture and a substantially non-metallic curtain. The damper assembly is capable of being coupled to the housing so that the aperture of the thermal damper assembly and the inlet of the housing are in fluid communication with each other. In some embodiments, the thermal damper assembly is configured and arranged to be uncoupled from the housing after the housing has been installed within the structure to provide access to the interior of the housing. |
| US09303886B2 |
Backlight module and display device
The present invention provides a backlight module and a display device for solving the problem of energy waste due to insufficient use of heat generated by a backlight module in the prior art. In this case, the backlight module comprises a light source arranged at a light-incident side of a display panel to provide light for the display panel, and a hollow humidifying container arranged at the back of the light source. |
| US09303882B2 |
Blow through air handler
An air handling unit includes an enclosure, a heat exchanger having a first section and a second section, wherein the heat exchanger is disposed within the enclosure, and at least one heating element substantially co-located with the heat exchanger within the enclosure. The at least one heating element is at least partially located between the first section of the heat exchanger and the second section of the heat exchanger. |
| US09303878B2 |
Hybrid range and method of use thereof
An appliance includes an oven cavity; a gas burner disposed within the oven cavity; an electrical heating element disposed within the oven cavity; and a controller in operative communication with the gas burner and the electrical heating element, the controller being configured to receive a signal indicative of a current state of an associated utility, and to selectively activate at least one of the gas burner and the electrical heating element based upon the signal. |
| US09303877B2 |
Faux candle fireplace insert with heating capacity
The present invention relates to a fireplace insert for a gas fireplace wherein the traditional gas fireplace logs are replaced by faux candles with gas flame wicks wherein at least one candle has a heating element, besides the wicks, in the body of the candle to produce heat from the fireplace. |
| US09303874B2 |
Systems and methods for preventing flashback in a combustor assembly
Embodiments of the present application include a combustor assembly. The combustor assembly may include a combustion chamber, a first plenum, a second plenum, and one or more elongate air/fuel premixing injection tubes. Each of the elongate air/fuel premixing injection tubes may include a first length at least partially disposed within the first plenum and configured to receive a first fluid from the first plenum. Moreover, each of the elongate air/fuel premixing injection tubes may include a second length disposed downstream of the first length and at least partially disposed within the second plenum. The second length may be formed of a porous wall configured to allow a second fluid from the second plenum to enter the second length and create a boundary layer about the porous wall. |
| US09303872B2 |
Fuel injector
A fuel injector is provided and includes a member defining a flowpath through which a first fluid flows, the flowpath having a cross-section with transverse elongate and short axes, a head defining a plenum storing a supply of a second fluid and a system fluidly coupled to the flowpath and the plenum to inject the second fluid from the plenum and into the flowpath at first and second locations along the elongate axis. The injected second fluid is formed into jets at the first and second locations, the first fluid entrains the jets such that the injected second fluid flows through the flowpath and mixes with the first fluid, and the short axis has a sufficient dimension such that the jets remain spaced from a sidewall of the member. |
| US09303866B2 |
Steam generation apparatus and associated control system and methods for providing a desired injection pressure
The current disclosure relates to steam generation and supply apparati and associated control systems. Particularly, the current disclosure relates to such steam generation supply apparati and associated control systems that are used for enhanced oil recovery. Certain embodiments are provided including methods and associated control systems related to the startup as well as main steam pressure header control or maintenance of a desired steam quality for such steam generation systems during normal operation. |
| US09303861B2 |
Light emitting diode light source modules
The present invention provides a highly-protective, heat dissipating LED light source module that may be waterproof or non-waterproof. In an embodiment, the present invention provides an LED light source module comprising: a waterproof housing comprising a metal substrate and a plastic cover integrally disposed on one or more surfaces of the metal substrate; and at least one light emitting diode, electronic component, and power line disposed on and operably connected with the metal substrate and encapsulated thereon by the plastic cover. In other embodiments are provided LED light source modules comprising: a circuit board with at least two through holes disposed at selected positions; at least one light emitting diode, electronic component, and power line disposed on the circuit board and operably connected therewith; and a plastic cover comprising at least two pins disposed and shaped for interconnection with corresponding through holes of the circuit board. The simple LED light source models disclosed may be efficiently and inexpensively produced and are capable of withstanding the harsh environments in which they are sometimes used. |
| US09303860B1 |
Moisture resistant light tube assembly and method of manufacture
A moisture resistant light tube assembly for use in forming a moisture resistant LED light tube. The light tube assembly includes a rear component with an elongated heat sink having a flat strip upon which an LED circuit board (or boards) may be placed under pressure legs formed of a polymer for maintaining the circuit board in thermal contact with the heat sink. A polymer lens provides a dome over the rear component. The light tube assembly is formed by co-extrusion of a polymer shell around the heat sink, co-extrusion of the polymer pressure legs to the polymer shell and co-extrusion of the dome to the rear component from one or more polymers selected for their ability to be bonded together by co-extrusion. |
| US09303859B2 |
Illuminating ventilator
An illuminating ventilator including a fan, a connecting frame, a lamp seat and a cover is provided. The fan has a housing and a fan wheel, wherein the housing has a first coupling portion, an inlet, an outlet and an inner space communicating with said inlet and outlet, and the fan wheel is received in the inner space. The connecting frame couples with the housing and has an opening in alignment with the inlet of the housing, wherein the connecting frame has a second coupling portion coupling with the first coupling portion of the housing. The lamp seat is mounted on one of the connecting frame and housing and has a receiving portion for receiving a lamp. The cover is coupled with the connecting frame and has a plurality of apertures communicating with the opening. |
| US09303858B2 |
System for cooling devices
A cooling system is provided. The cooling system includes an enclosure. The enclosure is defined by walls among which at least one is movable. The enclosure further includes at least one aperture on at least one wall. The system further includes an amplification element that is coupled with at least one walls of the enclosure. Further, the cooling system includes an actuation unit mechanically coupled with the amplification element. The actuation unit includes at least one actuation signal triggered actuator configured to cause a displacement the amplification element. In the cooling system, the amplification element is configured to amplify the actuator caused displacement through to the at least one wall of the enclosure such that fluid enters and exits the enclosure from the at least one aperture. |
| US09303857B2 |
LED lamp with omnidirectional light distribution
An LED based lamp has an optically transmissive enclosure connected to a base. The base may include a heat sink. A substrate is positioned in the enclosure and supports a plurality of LEDs where the periphery of the substrate has alternating recessed portions and protruding portions that define a plurality of laterally extending projections. One LED is located on each of the projections to increase the amount of down light generated by the lamp. |
| US09303856B2 |
Lighting device, display device, and television device
A backlight unit includes a chassis, an LED, a light guide plate, a duct member, and dissipative LED attachment portion. The chassis includes a light exit portion through which light exits. The LED is arranged close to an end portion of the chassis. The light guide plate is arranged closer to a middle area of the chassis than the LED and light from the LED is guided toward the light exit portion thereby. The duct member is arranged on the side opposite to the light exit portion side of the chassis and has an air passage therein. The dissipative LED attachment portion is provided to the duct member and includes one part facing the air passage and another part protruding to inside of the chassis and to which the LED is attached. |
| US09303854B2 |
Electrical rail systems with axially interleaved contact arrays
An improved electrical rail system for removable and repositionable lighting or other electrical fixtures is disclosed in which electrical interface contacts are interleaved along the rail axis to provide a wide range of fixture pivoting angles around the axis and linear translation along the axis of the rail assembly. Track systems disclosed include linear electrode rails with substantially circumferential contacts configured to provide pivoting of luminaires around the rail in excess of 180 degrees to provide lighting fixture directional flexibility. Helical rail systems are also disclosed with a plurality of interleaved electrical contacts on the surface that coil around the axis of the rail providing continuous pivoting of fixtures. Embodiments include rails with axial symmetry that may be bent in directions perpendicular to the rail axis. Embodiments provide fixture functional switching through movement in a first direction followed by further movement of the fixture without functional switching. |
| US09303846B2 |
Directional lamp with adjustable beam spread
A lamp having a lamp base and a longitudinal axis, with a first lens with more than one segment having optic elements located distal from the lamp base. Where optic elements within a segment have similar optical properties and at least two of the segments have optic elements with different optical properties. A second lens located between the distal lens and the lamp base, the second lens having a plurality of total internal reflection (TIR) lens elements each having a focal point, with a finite light source is positioned at about each of the TIR lens element focal points. At least one of the first lens or the second lens is moveable about the longitudinal axis so as to change an alignment between the optic element segments, the TIR lens elements, and the finite light sources. |
| US09303844B2 |
Lighting device combining a lens unit
Provided is a lighting device, including: a lens unit including one or more lenses; and a light source unit which converts light emitted from a light emitting unit to surface light source and supplies the light to the lens unit, wherein the light source unit is integrally connected to the lens unit, whereby an entire thickness and volume of the product can be reduced and the lighting device can be applied to the fields of various illumination technologies, thereby having generality. |
| US09303843B2 |
Lighting assembly
A lighting assembly is generally elongate having a base and a lens, which are configured to cooperatively define a cavity for receiving a light emitting device therein. The lens includes an inner layer and an outer layer, the inner layer being configured to diffuse light from the light emitting device passing through the lens and the outer layer being configured to change the hue of light passing through the lens. The outer layer and the inner layer are configured to provide the lens with four refractive surfaces for light passing through the lens. |
| US09303842B2 |
Display apparatus
A display apparatus includes a display panel that displays an image, a window member, and an adhesive layer. The window member includes a base film that has a light transmission area that exposes the image of the display panel, the light transmission area is surrounded by a blocking area, a blocking pattern on the blocking area, and a dam pattern on the blocking pattern. The adhesive layer is between the display panel and the window member. |
| US09303841B2 |
Ultraviolet light-emitting module and ultraviolet irradiation device
Provided is a compact ultraviolet irradiation apparatus using ultraviolet light-emitting devices such as ultraviolet LEDs that can irradiate high intensity ultraviolet rays. This ultraviolet irradiation apparatus including a light source for emitting ultraviolet rays; and a light condenser for condensing the ultraviolet rays emitted from the light source, the light source is a modularized rod-like light source (110) where a plurality of ultraviolet light-emitting devices is disposed on a side surface of a cylindrical or polygonal columnar base such that a light axis of each ultraviolet light-emitting device passes through a center axis of the cylindrical or polygonal columnar base to emit the ultraviolet rays radially to the center axis, the rod-like light source is disposed on a focal axis (121) of a long elliptical reflective mirror (120) to condense ultraviolet rays radially emitted from the rod-like light source, and the condensed ultraviolet rays are irradiated. |
| US09303838B2 |
Vehicle light and vehicle equipped with vehicle light
A vehicle light installed in a vehicle includes: a main case having a front opening; first and second light guides that are disposed in the main case; light sources that emit light into the first and second light guides; and a translucent cover fitted to cover the opening of the main case. The first light guide is rod-shaped and includes a first extended section extending from the inboard side of the first light guide relative to the vehicle width direction toward the outboard side of the first light guide relative to the same and a second extended section that continues from the first extended section, curves back inwardly, and extends to the inboard side, and the second light guide is plate-shaped and disposed so as to pass in front of or behind the portion of the first light guide that curves back. |
| US09303835B2 |
Flashing lighting module
A flashing lighting module includes: a base, a light guide unit, and a control circuit. The light guide unit includes at least two light-transmitting plates, each of which has an end forming a fixing section. The fixing sections are respectively received in corresponding mounting holes formed in the base and each includes a light incident surface at the side thereof opposite to the light-transmitting plate. The control circuit includes two light-emitting elements respectively corresponding to the light-transmitting plates and is connectable to a power supply for driving the two light-emitting elements to get lightening and darkening in sequence. As such, when a power supply is conducted on, each of the light-emitting elements gives off light transmitting to the interiors of the light-transmitting plates to make each of the light-transmitting plates show an effect of flashing in response to the lightening and darkening of the corresponding one of the light-emitting elements. |
| US09303834B1 |
Method for manufacturing LED light bar and LED light bar thereof
Disclosed is a method for manufacturing an LED light bar and an LED light bar thereof. The method includes: providing a metal substrate and a plurality of LED lights; forming a graphene layer on the metal substrate in such a way that the graphene layer includes hollow sections formed to correspond to the LED lights; mounting the LED lights to the metal substrate in the hollow sections; and forming silicone layers in the hollow sections. The LED light bar includes a graphene layer formed on a metal substrate and silicone layers are provided for planarization and heat transfer so as to effectively enhance heat dissipation performance of the LED light bar and extend lifespan of the LED light bar. |
| US09303831B2 |
Spectrum converting device and a method for making the same
A fish attracting lamp with a removable spectrum converting device includes: a positioning unit for fixing the removable spectrum converting device to the fish attracting lamp; an optical element made of light transmitting material and positioned on the positioning unit of the fish attracting lamp; and a plurality of fluorescent particles disposed in the optical element. Part of the light emitted from the fish attracting lamp passes through the optical element and will change wavelength after passing through the fluorescent particles. |
| US09303830B2 |
Light source device and endoscope apparatus comprising the same
A light source device includes a first semiconductor light source, a second semiconductor light source, and a wavelength converter. The first semiconductor light source emits light in a first wavelength range. The second semiconductor light source emits light in a second wavelength range different from the first wavelength range. The wavelength converter absorbs the light in the first wavelength range to emit light in a third wavelength range different from either of the first wavelength range and the second wavelength range, and transmits the light in the second wavelength range substantially entirely. |
| US09303826B2 |
LED backlight apparatus and method
Backlit video display systems where the backlights (for example, LED backlights) are controlled based at least in part on the content of the video signal of the video that is being displayed by the backlit video display system. The system can provide specific control of the three primary colors (for example, red, green and blue LEDs). The system can provide content-based control in a spatial mode. The system is a smart backlighting system with content-based controls at the following levels: (i) spectral, (ii) spatial, and (iii) temporal control. Also, some embodiments may provide a novel way of providing a backlit video display system with night vision (NV) capability through a unique four LED chip architecture. |
| US09303825B2 |
High bay luminaire
A high bay luminaire system and method for forming the same includes a body member, a power supply, and a light source. The body member includes a plurality of end sections, a plurality of intermediate sections which may be attached to the plurality of end sections, a central section which is positioned between the plurality of intermediate sections and is attached to the plurality of end sections, and a plurality of side sections which are attached to an end section of the plurality of end sections and/or an intermediate section of the plurality of intermediate sections. The light source is in electrical communication with the power supply. The cavity is defined by the plurality of end sections and the central section. The plurality of end sections, the plurality of intermediate sections, the central section, and/or the plurality of side sections are formed of sheet metal. |
| US09303824B2 |
LED lighting device
The present disclosure provides an LED lighting device comprising a heat dissipation body, a driver module and a lighting module. The heat dissipation body includes a base, a heat dissipation wall, heat dissipation fins and a top face. The heat dissipation wall defines a heat dissipation channel therein and is formed with first through holes. The heat dissipation fins are formed on and encircle the heat dissipation wall. The top face is formed with a first opening The driver module is disposed inside the heat dissipation body. The lighting module includes a tube body and LED light sources. The tube body has two end openings in fluid communication with each other and one of the end openings is connected to the first opening The LED light sources are arranged on the tube body and are electrically connected to the driver module. |
| US09303822B2 |
Lighting device
A lighting device may be provided that includes: a heat sink; a member which has a polygonal pillar shape having at least three sides and is disposed on the heat sink, wherein the sides are inclined at a predetermined angle toward the center of the heat sink; and a light source which is disposed on at least one among the sides of the member, wherein the light source includes: a substrate; at least two light emitting devices which are symmetrically disposed on the substrate with respect to the center of the substrate; and at least two lens units which are disposed on the light emitting devices respectively, and consequently, it is possible to meet U.S. Energy Star and ANSI specifications, to remarkably improve rear light distribution characteristics and to remove a dark portion. |
| US09303820B2 |
Chemiluminescent aerosol spray
This invention relates to a stable, highly visible, multiple use, chemiluminescent composition of matter and aerosol system capable of articulating, communicating, displaying or marking, night-time chemiluminescent messages, in the form of written text, numerics, alpha-numerics, figures, drawings, emergency messages, trail markings, lanterns or distress calls, directly onto various substrates and surfaces, including dark or non-reflective objects and outdoor natural surfaces such as grass, trees or land. The invention functions by co-dispensing two vessels, each of which is pressurized by means of a non-flammable liquid or gaseous propellant. The chemical ingredients from each vessel are combined upon contact with the surface or by means of a mixing valve or upon attached to the actuators of each vessel, which simultaneously eject the contents of both vessels and produce a chemiluminescent aerosol spray. |
| US09303816B1 |
Materials capture, containment, storage
The present application is directed to containers operationally configured to capture, contain or otherwise store or hold fluids and solids. A suitable container may be travelable and include a first member defining the outer surface and inner surface of the container and one or more second members housed within the first member for forming the perimeter of the container. The one or more second members are suitably operationally configured to allow the container to be folded. |
| US09303812B2 |
Adjustable hanger bar for luminaires
A hanger bar assembly includes a first hanger bar member that includes a first rail segment. The first hanger bar member also includes a first channel segment that includes a first channel. The first hanger bar member also includes a first transitional middle segment extending between the first rail segment and the first channel segment. The hanger bar assembly further includes a second hanger bar member that includes a second rail segment. The second rail segment is positioned in the first channel of the first channel segment. The second hanger bar member further includes a second channel segment that includes a second channel. The first rail segment is positioned in the second channel. The second hanger bar member also includes a second transitional middle segment extending between the second rail segment and the second channel segment. |
| US09303809B2 |
Apparatus, system and method for securing, attaching and/or detaching a device to a fixture
An apparatus, a system and a method secures, attaches and/or detaches a device to a fixture. A post with an interior secures a retractable reel. The retractable reel has a cable that attaches, connects and/or secures the device to the fixture. The cable extends from the retractable reel and/or extends through the post. A head unit attaches to the device and has a fastening mechanism for connecting and/or for disconnecting the cable to the device. The post has a recession for receiving a head unit and/or for aligning the head unit and/or the device. A fastener and/or an adhesive connects, secures and/or attaches the device to the head unit. A key disconnects the cable from the head unit. |
| US09303806B2 |
Closure assembly for pipe end
A closure assembly for terminating an end of a pipe (4) has an end-cap (4) holding and having fluid-tight connection to a mutually coaxial cylindrical plug (2) and circular collar (3). The plug (2) and the collar (3) are configurable between respective engaged and disengaged configurations and mutually spaced to provide an annular space therebetween when the plug (2) and collar (3) are in their disengaged configurations. The annular space is arranged to receive an end of a pipe (1) arranged coaxially with the plug (2) and collar (3), the plug (2) and collar (3) being respectively slidable into and over the end of the pipe (1). The plug (2), when in its engaged configuration, grips the inner face of said pipe (41) and to provide a fluid tight seal and the collar (3), when in its engaged configuration, grips the outer face of the pipe (1) and to provide a fluid tight seal. |
| US09303805B2 |
Heatable medium pipe
For a heatable medium pipe having at least one pipe connector and heating element, wherein the heating element has a few wires, in particular one or two wires, wherein the wire(s) extend continuously along the medium pipe and along the at least one pipe connector. In a method for producing a heatable medium pipe, comprising the medium pipe, at least one pipe connector, a transition area between the medium pipe and the pipe connector, and at least one heating element, wherein the heating element has a few wires, in particular one or two wires, the medium pipe is pre-assembled with the at least one pipe connector, the wire or the few wires of the heating element are pre-assembled as a double-laid, one or two-part element or as an element connected to form a continuous part, the wire(s) are fastened on the outside of the pipe connector, transition area and medium pipe, and the ends of the wire(s) are guided into a feed-in connector for connecting to a current source or voltage source. |
| US09303804B2 |
Combination glue hub and mechanical coupler for pipe fittings
A fitting for plumbing systems, such as drain/waste/ventilation (DWV) systems that is chemically and mechanically joinable is described. A socket of the fitting has an interior surface configured for chemically joining with tubing. An exterior surface of the socket includes a plurality of projections extending radially outward therefrom. A collar that includes a sidewall with a plurality of bayonet-style channels configured to engage respective projections is provided. Interaction of the projections with the channels during rotation of the collar with respect to the fitting draws the collar toward the fitting and compresses an O-ring between the collar, socket, and tubing inserted therein to form a fluid-tight seal and/or mechanically couple the tubing in the socket. The collar may include longitudinally depending flanges that are depressed against the tubing by a compression ring to mechanically couple the tubing in the socket. |
| US09303794B2 |
Buried pipeline repair system
A damaged portion of a pipeline buried in a trench is gradually lifted from the trench to expose the damaged portion above water and provide easy access to the damaged portion. Inflatable roller bags are placed under the pipeline adjacent the damaged portion; the roller bags are then inflated in a controlled manner using a computer-based control unit. A control manifold is connected to the control unit and each of the roller bags by a separate air conduit allowing controlled bag-inflation and bag-deflation process for each roller bag. Once the pipeline is repaired, the roller bags are deflated, lowering the pipeline back to its original position in the trench. |
| US09303787B2 |
Thermostatic slide valve for a motor vechicle
A valve (1) has a housing base (2) and a valve seat (18) supported by the housing base (2). An annular slide (12) is displaceable linearly relative to the housing base (2) between first and second operating positions. A sealing edge (17) of the annular slide (12) bears in a sealing manner against the valve seat (18) when the annular slide (12) is in the first operating position. However, the annular slide (12) is raised from the valve seat (18) in the second operating position to enable flow through the annular slide (12). At least one flow deflecting element (27) is provided to deflect a fluid flowing between the sealing edge (17) and the valve seat (18). |
| US09303786B2 |
Autonomous valve control and monitoring
Apparatus and associated methods relate to an autonomous controllable valve system for providing turbulent flow to a cleaning solution during a valve-cleaning operation, the valve system includes a valve and a valve controller, the valve has an MR sensor array arranged to receive a magnetic field from a magnet coupled to the valve stem, the MR sensor array generating signals indicative of a valve stem position, the valve controller receiving the position signals and generating a control signal for a valve actuator to move the valve stem to a cleaning position between a closed position and a maximal-open position. The cleaning position may be less than twenty percent of a distance between the closed position and the maximal open position. In an illustrative embodiment, the cleaning position may be predetermined to cause a turbulent flow of the cleaning solution. |
| US09303783B1 |
Control device for anti-freeze faucet
An anti-freeze faucet includes a receptacle having a valve seat, a housing engaged onto the receptacle and having a mouth piece, a cap attached to the mouth piece and having a non-circular inner peripheral portion, a stem rotatably engaged in the cap and having a threaded shank, a non-circular follower engaged in the cap and slidably engaged with the non-circular inner peripheral portion of the cap for guiding and limiting the follower to move longitudinally relative to the cap only and for preventing the follower from being rotated relative to the cap, and the follower includes an inner thread for threading with the threaded shank of the stem, a rod and a valve piece are attached to the follower for engaging with the valve seat of the receptacle. |
| US09303782B2 |
Toilet leak detection kit and method
The present invention provides an easily mounted, self-contained, compact fluid leak detection kit and/or method. The kit housing can be mounted by a homeowner or contractor between the wall outlet and the toilet input. When water begins to flow through the kit housing, a sensor such as a flow switch closes and applies voltage to the time delay relay. As long as the flow continues, the relay will count down the amount of preset time. The kit provides an adjustment to set a predetermined delay time, which is easily accessible and adjustable to the normal operating cycle time of any particular toilet. After adjusting the timer to the normal operating cycle time of the toilet, then the kit simply allows normal operation of the toilet as long as flow stops before the flow cycle. However, when a time has elapsed during the flow cycle to thereby indicate a problem leak, the relay will send voltage to a solenoid valve, which will stop the flow. The flow will remain stopped until an easily accessible reset button is depressed manually. |
| US09303781B2 |
High gain servo valve
A servo valve includes a movable throttling member positioned between a first opening and an opposing second opening, and a first inlet port and a second inlet port to convey a fluid flow toward the first and opening, respectively. A first inlet orifice, defined between the first inlet port and a first pressure reaction member, is located between and in fluid communication with the first inlet port and the first opening. A second inlet orifice, is located between and in fluid communication with the second inlet port and the second opening. The second pressure reaction member is secured to the first pressure reaction member at a substantially fixed distance. Each of the first inlet orifice and the second inlet orifice is variable via a change a pressure of the fluid flow downstream of the first inlet orifice and the second inlet orifice. |
| US09303771B2 |
Butterfly valve with a rigid seal
A valve including a valve body having a central bore for passage of fluid there through and a longitudinal axis. The valve can also include a seal installed within the valve body along the central bore. The seal can include a first seal member having an annular ring portion and a hub portion extending from the annular ring portion. The seal can also include a second seal member including an annular ring configured to engage a distal end of the hub portion and create a sealing engagement between the hub portion and the annular ring when a compressive force is applied to the first and the second seal members. |
| US09303767B2 |
Seal ring
A seal ring 100 is configured by the combination of a first divided body 100A on a high pressure side and a second divided body 100B on a low pressure side with respect to an axis direction. The seal ring that stabilizes sealing performance while reducing rotary torque and including a recessed section 140 provided centrally in a width direction and extending in a circumferential direction and a pair of raised sections 150 provided on both sides of the recessed section 140. A through hole 141 a is provided so as to lead to a bottom surface of the recessed section 140 from an inner peripheral surface side and allows a sealed fluid to be introduced into the recessed section 140 from the inner peripheral surface side. |
| US09303766B2 |
Oil seal for delco remy 50DN oil cooled, heavy duty automotive alternator
One possible embodiment of the invention could be an oil seal for a DELCO REMY 50DN heavy duty automotive alternator comprising a top collar; a bottom collar nested within the top collar to form a ring body; an annular polymer sealing member attaches to the top collar to form a mating flange that generally extends from an inner edge of the top collar to further denote a portion of an inner passage of the oil seal, the mating flange forming clockwise orientated splines to substantially denote a set return grooves in a spaced-apart, parallel, and clockwise orientation; wherein during alternator operations, a spacing collar spinning within the inner passage brings oil from the interior of the alternator into contact with the mating flange, the splines on the mating flange then direct the oil to the return grooves, which then direct the oil back towards the interior of the alternator. |
| US09303762B2 |
Hydraulic pressure controller for continuously variable transmission
Disclosed is a hydraulic control device for a continuously variable transmission which changes the transmission gear ratio by changing the hydraulic pressure supplied to hydraulic pressure chambers for pulleys in the continuously variable transmission via control valves is changed. In this hydraulic control device, line pressure regulation hydraulic pressure which corresponds to the magnitudes of the oil pressure supplied to the hydraulic pressure chambers is introduced into a regulator valve, and line pressure which is input into the control valves according to the magnitudes of the oil pressure is subjected to feedback regulation. In the hydraulic control device for the continuously variable transmission, after the valve element of the control valve is driven in the valve opening direction, a vibration restriction control operation which temporarily restricts the displacement of the valve element is executed. |
| US09303746B2 |
Vehicular torque converter
A vehicular torque converter includes: a pump impeller having a pump covering and vanes disposed within an output-side portion of the pump covering; a turbine impeller having vanes opposed to the pump impeller vanes; a stator impeller; a one-way clutch between the stator impeller and a stationary member; and a lock-up clutch configured to connect the turbine impeller to an inner surface of a wall of said pump covering. The vanes are offset with respect to the one-way clutch toward the output side. The vehicular torque converter further includes: a thrust bearing between the stator impeller and the turbine impeller, the thrust bearing having a sliding surface with respect to the stator impeller, the sliding surface being positioned radially outwardly of the one-way clutch and offset from an end face of each of sprags of the one-way clutch toward the output side. |
| US09303742B2 |
Inverted spline rail system
A inverted spline rail system is provided. The inverted spline rail system includes a drive motor that rotates a drive screw. The drive screw has a associated nut body. The nut body includes a attachment portion that a user can attach a device that requires linear motion control. Furthermore, the nut body is located inside of a cylindrical body that encases the drive screw. The nut body has guide teeth that mate with an internally splined guide rail of the cylindrical body that contains both the nut and the drive screw. The reciprocating nature of the guide teeth of the nut and the internally splined guide rail of the cylindrical body translate the rotational motion of the drive screw into linear motion of the nut body. The inverted spline rail system is protected from its operating environment by a seal. |
| US09303741B2 |
Linear-to-rotary actuator
The linear-to-rotary actuator includes an elongated drive member constrained to linear movement, and a rotary member constrained to rotary movement. The elongated drive member has a coupling end and an engaging member that projects from the coupling end. The rotary member has a track defining an Archimedean spiral. The track is adapted to receive the engaging member. The engaging member is constrained to slide in the track such that linear movement of the elongated member effects rotation of the rotary member. The track may be a slot, a groove, or other guide. Alternatively, instead of a track defined directly in the rotary member, the actuator may include a linking member (such as a disk or rectangular bracket) attached to the rotary member, the linking member having a track defining an Archimedean spiral defined therein, the engaging member being slidable in the track to convert linear motion into rotary motion. |
| US09303738B1 |
Arrangement and method for guiding a load in a linear movement
An arrangement and method for guiding a load in a linear movement for providing stability and properties of low inertia. The arrangement and method for guiding a load in a linear movement includes a rail being a solid body having a top and opposed sides each interconnecting the top; a shaft being movable upon the rail; and a carrier assembly being movable with the shaft upon the rail. |
| US09303737B2 |
Motion conversion mechanisms
A mechanism and method for motion conversion is disclosed. This mechanism can be easily fabricated using standard bulk micromachining technology. Based on this method with appropriate design, a horizontal, in-plane motion can be converted to a vertical or angular displacement out-of-plane. This design has great advantages in micro devices, which are built from a single layer, i.e. wafer fabrication, where an in-plane force is easy to implement, such as by the use of comb drive mechanisms, but an out-of-plane motion may be hard to achieve. The mechanism comprises a pair of beams of different heights, rigidly connected together at a number of points along their length, such that application of an in-plane force to the double beam structure results in out-of-plane motion of the double beam structure at points distant from the point of application of the force. |
| US09303736B2 |
Control device for vehicle continuously variable transmission
A control device for a vehicle continuously variable transmission that includes: an input-side variable pulley of which an effective diameter is variable; an output-side variable pulley of which an effective diameter is variable; a transmission belt that is wound between the input-side variable pulley and the output-side variable pulley; and a check valve that, on the basis of a first pressure that is one of an input-side pressure applied to the input-side variable pulley and an output-side pressure applied to the output-side variable pulley, regulates a second pressure that is the other one of the input-side pressure and the output-side pressure includes: a control unit that, when the second pressure is regulated by the check valve, controls the first pressure on the basis of a pressure required to suppress a slip of the transmission belt and a pressure required to achieve a target speed ratio. |
| US09303733B2 |
Three variable and four variable transgear assemblies
Infinitely variable motion control (IVMC) using Transgear gear assemblies provides rotary motion control without any requirement for connecting or disconnecting gear meshes or use of a clutch. A bevel, miter, ring or spur gear Transgear gear assembly may be defined as a gear assembly having three or four of variables, input, output and control, assigned in a manner so as to provide, for example, one of accumulation of inputs and direction control. A four variable Transgear gear assembly may be one of a spur gear Transgear gear assembly having an additional ring gear surrounding a set of planetary gears or a bevel gear Transgear gear assembly having a double bevel gear, an outer bevel gear and a bevel gear meshing to the outer bevel gear sleeve surrounding an inner beveled gear and comprising three orthogonal carrier shafts. Rather than two sets of three variable Transgear gear assemblies connected in series or in parallel, a four variable Transgear gear assembly may provide, for example, a direction control function with just one gear assembly with two of the four variables assignable as control variables. |
| US09303730B2 |
Twin clutch type transmission
A twin clutch type transmission connected to an engine of a vehicle and the like in which an end portion of the main shaft is held in the secure and compact manner to contribute to efficient operation of the transmission. In the twin clutch type transmission, the first and second hydraulic disk clutches are coaxially provided to be adjacent with each other, and the inner and outer shafts of the main shaft as a coaxial dual structure are connected to the respective disk clutches coaxially. The ball bearing fixed to the transmission case with the holder plate pierces the left end portion of the inner shaft so as to be supported, and further to be tightened and fixed to the ball bearing with the locknut screwed with the leading end of the left end portion. |
| US09303723B2 |
Duct grip anchor system
An anchor system including at least one flexible interconnection device. A restraint device is on the at least one flexible interconnection device. The restraint device and the flexible interconnection device form a combination. The anchor system includes a terminal object having an exterior surface and an interior surface that defines a duct for receiving a portion of the flexible interconnection device. The duct has a first end, a second end, and an interior portion. The terminal object includes a metallic-iron-free load-bearing structure that defines a load-bearing surface such that when the flexible interconnection device is positioned through the duct and when a tensional force is applied to the interconnection device, the tensional force urges the combination against the load-bearing surface such that the metallic-iron-free load-bearing structure impedes the combination from traversing the duct in response to the tensional force by bearing the resultant load. |
| US09303717B2 |
Rate-responsive, stretchable devices
Rate-dependent, elastically-deformable devices according to various embodiments can be stretched and recovered at low elongation rates. Yet they become stiff and resistive to stretching at high elongation rates. In one embodiment, a rate-dependent, elastically-deformable device includes an elastically-deformable confinement member; one or more filaments placed inside the elastically-deformable confinement member; and a fluid that substantially fills the remaining volume inside the elastically-deformable confinement member. The resistance force to extension of the device is designed to increase as the extension rate of the device increases. At low elongation rates the filaments can readily slide past each other. At high elongation rates, the fluid transforms to a less flowable material that greatly increases the force and energy required for elongation; or transforms to a non-flowable material that resists elongation. The devices thus can be stretched and recovered at low elongation rates, but become extremely stiff and resistive to stretching at high elongation rates. |
| US09303716B2 |
Magnetorheological damping device for reduction or elimination of vibration in steering systems
A damping device for use with a rotatably-mounted steering shaft. The damping device comprises a magnetorheological material that can be embedded in an open-network carrier and is directly or indirectly in contact with the steering shaft, a coil arranged in effective proximity to the magnetorheological material, and a body indirectly in contact with the steering shaft through the magnetorheological material, which does not rotate with the steering shaft. A voltage can be applied the coil to activate the magnetorheological material, increasing a viscosity of the magnetorheological material to inhibit relative rotation of the steering shaft and the body. |
| US09303715B2 |
Limiting system for a vehicle suspension component
A damper assembly is disclosed that includes a tubular member, a rod, a primary piston, a secondary piston, and a seal. The tubular member includes a sidewall and a cap positioned at an end of the sidewall. The sidewall and the cap defining an inner volume. The rod extends within the inner volume of the tubular member. The primary piston defines a contact surface and is positioned within the inner volume and coupled to an end of the rod. The secondary piston defines a central aperture and a channel. Engagement of the primary piston and the secondary piston forms a flow conduit between the channel and the contact surface. The seal is disposed between an outer surface of the secondary piston and the sidewall such that a flow path is formed through the central aperture and the flow conduit. |
| US09303708B2 |
Chipping-resistant vibration damper in form of sheet
It provides that a vibration-damping material in form of sheet which can be adhered to even at locations such as underfloor or engine room of a vehicle where both vibration-damping performance and chipping-resistant performance are required by self-adhesive bonding or heat melt adhesive bonding through an adhesive layer composed of a adhesive or a hotmelt adhesive. A vibration-damping material in form of sheet with chipping-resistant performance having both of vibration-damping performance and chipping-resistant performance includes a thermosetting vibration-damping sheet and an adhesive layer, the thermosetting vibration-damping sheet includes one or more than synthetic rubber selected from the group consisting of a styrene-butadiene rubber, a butadiene rubber and a high-styrene rubber; a polybutadienic elastomer; a curing agent; a petroleum resin and an inorganic filler. |
| US09303707B2 |
Roller shade system and method
An apparatus for raising and lowering a window shade having: a clutch assembly with a clutch core having a shaft; springs having pairs of load bearing members, the springs being circumferentially positioned along a length of the shaft, the pairs of load bearing members being circumferentially spaced around the shaft such that there are no two orthogonal planes along a longitudinal axis of the shaft about which a load applied to a load bearing member of each pair is symmetrically distributed; a pulley defining openings, each of the openings being configured to receive at least one pair of load bearing members; and a housing comprising a plurality of keys, each key being configured to fit between at least one pair of load bearing members received by the openings. |
| US09303699B2 |
Electromechanical assembly to control the operating mode of a coupling apparatus
An electromechanical assembly to control the operating mode of a coupling apparatus is provided. The assembly includes a first subassembly including a stator having at least one electromagnetically inductive coil to create a magnetic flux when the at least one coil is energized. At least one bi-directionally movable rod has a free end adapted for connection to a strut of the coupling apparatus for selective, small displacement strut movement. An actuator is operatively connected to the at least one rod for selective bi-directional shifting movement along a rotational axis between a first position of the actuator which corresponds to a first mode of the coupling apparatus and a second position of the actuator which corresponds to a second mode of the coupling apparatus. A magnetic control force is applied to the actuator when the at least one coil is energized to cause the actuator to move between positions. |
| US09303696B2 |
Optimized outer clutch housing for reduced spin loss, improved oil flow and improved clutch durability
A torque transfer device can include a housing and a clutch. The housing can define a clutch cavity and a pocket. The pocket can be formed at an axial end of the clutch cavity and have a generally arcuate shape that extends circumferentially about the clutch cavity above a static lubrication level. The clutch can include an outer carrier, an inner carrier, a plurality of first and second interleaved friction plates. One of an outer and an inner plate carrier of the clutch can be coupled to an input member for common rotation. The other of the carriers can be coupled to a differential case for common rotation. Rotation of the outer carrier relative to the housing through a fluid in the clutch cavity can sling a portion of the fluid toward an inner surface of the housing to cause the portion of the fluid to collect in the pocket. |
| US09303694B2 |
Bearing for a wind turbine
A bearing for a wind turbine, the use of the bearing and a method to control the temperature of the bearing is provided. A bearing for a wind turbine comprises an inner ring and an outer ring. The inner ring and the outer ring are prepared and arranged in a way to rotate with respect to each other. The inner ring comprises at least one channel. The channel is prepared and arranged in a way that air flows along inside the channel so that excess heat of the inner ring is removed by the airflow in the channel. |
| US09303690B2 |
Rolling bearing
A rolling bearing comprises rollers and a retainer which holds the rollers. On an inner diameter surface of each of annular regions in the retainer, a cutout is formed from an axially outer side end surface of the retainer toward an inner side of the retainer. Each cutout has an outer diametrical position on a more radially outer position than an outer diametrical end of an inner-side projection of the retainer. |
| US09303689B2 |
Non-rhythmically spaced rolling elements for reduction in bearing non-repeatable run-out
A rolling element bearing includes an outer member having an outer member interior surface and an outer member exterior surface. The bearing includes an inner member having an inner member interior surface and an inner member exterior surface and a plurality of rolling elements disposed between the inner member and the outer member. The bearing includes a plurality of random-length slug separators. The separators are of a first length, a second length or a third length, which are not equal. One of the plurality of random-length slug separators is disposed adjacent to at least one of the plurality of rolling elements. The plurality of rolling elements are non-rhythmically spaced apart. |
| US09303688B2 |
Thermal barrier coating for bearing journal surfaces of rotary shafts
A rotary shaft and method for reducing non-uniform heating thereof are provided. The rotary shaft may include a tubular body having a longitudinal axis extending therethrough. An outer surface of the tubular body may define a groove at least partially extending radially inward from the outer radial surface toward the longitudinal axis of the tubular body to define a depth thereof. The rotary shaft may include a thermal barrier at least partially disposed in the groove and configured to absorb at least a portion of heat generated from rotation thereof. |
| US09303681B1 |
Retainer apparatus
A retainer apparatus for removably engaging a first article to a second article, the apparatus including a beam with a first end having an eyelet plus an open ended hook and a second end having a cavity. Operationally, the eyelet is pivotally attached the first article, thus the open ended hook is solely removably engagable with the second article. Also, a flexible finger extension constructed of an elongated element to form an open ended perimeter that closes the hook, wherein the elongated element terminates in a primary end portion pivotally connected to the first end, going to a perimeter section, and terminates in an opposing secondary end that is pivotally connected to the first end. Wherein operationally, the finger is urged to close the hook retaining the second article and the finger can be manually opened to release the second article with the cavity moved away from the second article. |
| US09303680B1 |
Systems, methods, and apparatus for a retention tool
Systems, methods, and apparatus are disclosed for retaining a fastening element in a retention tool. The retention tool may include a housing that includes a socket configured to receive fastening elements. The retention tool may further include a torque restrictor that is coupled to the housing, and is configured to transfer a rotational force to the fastening elements. The retention tool further includes a retention plate coupled to the housing and configured to retain the fastening elements in the socket. The retention plate may have a first resistance configured to enable the insertion of the fastening elements into the socket in a first direction in response to a first application of a first force. The retention plate may also have a second resistance configured to enable the removal of the fastening elements from the socket in a second direction in response to a second application of a second force. |
| US09303678B2 |
Nut
A nut for fastening a first workpiece defining a through recess to a second workpiece including a bolt projecting in an axial direction through the recess, and the nut comprises an axially extending shank and flange at a first end of the shank, and the nut defines a bore extending axially through the flange and into the shank and further defines an opening to the bore proximate to the first end of the shank, and the nut further includes an elastic holding section radially outward of the opening, and the nut partially defines a depression radially outward of the holding section, so that the holding section can flex radially outward into the depression when the nut is jammed onto the bolt. |
| US09303671B2 |
Method of isolating metallic fasteners in composite panels
A method of isolating a metallic fastener from a carbon-fiber composite panel includes inserting the metallic fastener within an electrically isolating annular collar; inserting the metallic fastener and electrically isolating annular collar within a hole defined by the carbon-fiber composite panel; and securing the metallic fastener to the carbon-fiber composite panel. The annular collar may be circumferentially disposed about the metallic fastener such that the annular collar separates and electrically isolates the entire metallic fastener from the carbon-fiber composite panel. As such, the annular collar may minimize the galvanic reaction between the fastener and the carbon-fiber composite panel. |
| US09303668B2 |
Thin joint member producing method and pair of thin joint members
A method is provided for producing a joint member of a metal joint, such that reduction of assembly manhours and reduction of the thickness and weight can be achieved at the same time without reducing the strength of a product or increasing the cost of production. In the case of a nut-side thin joint member, a metal plate of boron steel obtained by adding boron to low-carbon steel is burred such that the resulting cylindrical body obtains a surface that is sufficient for threading, then a threaded portion having a plurality of threads is formed on that surface, after which, quenching is carried out to increase the strength of the threads so that a nut having sufficient strength can be integrally provided even though the thickness and weight of the joint member are reduced. |
| US09303667B2 |
Lobular elastic tube alignment system for providing precise four-way alignment of components
An elastically averaged alignment system includes a first component and a second component. The first component includes a first alignment member and an elastically deformable alignment element fixedly disposed with respect to the first alignment member. The second component includes a second alignment member and an alignment feature fixedly disposed with respect to the second alignment member. The elastically deformable alignment element is configured and disposed to interferingly, deformably and matingly engage the alignment feature. The elastically deformable alignment element includes a lobular hollow tube having a cross-section having at least three outwardly oriented lobes relative to a central axis of the hollow tube, and the alignment feature includes a circular aperture. Portions of the elastically deformable alignment element when inserted into the alignment feature elastically deform to an elastically averaged final configuration that aligns the first alignment member with the second alignment member in four planar orthogonal directions. |
| US09303665B2 |
Adaptable mating fastener assembly
A fastening assembly is configured to secure a first component to a second component through a range of connection angles. The fastening assembly may include a female fastening member having at least one retention stud, and a male fastening member having an internal opening configured to pivotally retain the at least one retention stud. The retention stud(s) is configured to be pivotally adjusted within the internal opening in order to securely connect the female fastening member to the male fastening member through the range of connection angles. |
| US09303663B2 |
Locking rail alignment system
In a panel support array constituted by lower support joists and upper panel rails in a two-tier, two-dimensional arrangement, the array is aligned through the use of V-shaped locking rails extending through apertures in adjacent upper panel rails. The V-shaped locking rails are configured so as to lock at each of the upper panel rails through which the V-rail passes. As a result, the overall support array remains aligned in the proper position despite environmental variations. |
| US09303661B2 |
Control arrangement
A control arrangement for use in a hydraulic control system including a control valve having at least two movable elements, such as spools or poppets, that is adapted to control a main flow through the control valve. The control arrangement further includes a control unit. In an embodiment the control arrangement is adapted to control the operation of the control valve in accordance with a first control scheme, monitor an operating parameter of the control system, and control the operation of the control valve in accordance with a second control scheme in the event that the value of the operating parameter falls outside of a predetermined range. |
| US09303657B2 |
Fan and motor bearing heat dissipation structure thereof
A motor bearing heat dissipation structure includes a metal base, a heat conducting element connected to the metal base and including a wall portion and an extended portion, and a plastic bearing cup located around an outer side of the wall portion of the heat conducting element and fixed to the metal base. The plastic bearing cup internally defines a bearing receiving hole. The extended portion is horizontally extended from an upper end of the wall portion toward a center of the plastic bearing cup. A bearing is received in the bearing receiving hole and seated on the extended portion, so that heat produced by the bearing when it rotates along with a rotary shaft of a motor is transferred from the extended portion of the heat conducting element to the metal base for dissipation. A fan using such motor bearing heat dissipation structure is also disclosed. |
| US09303639B2 |
Pump having a throttle
A pump includes an outflow channel configured for discharging fluid out of the pump. The outlet area thereof is formed by a throttle. The throttle includes a spring element configured to change the size of the outlet area of the outflow channel. |
| US09303638B2 |
Variable radial fluid devices in series
According to one embodiment, a radial fluid device comprises a cylinder block, a first plurality of pistons, a second plurality of pistons, a first cam, a second cam, and a coupling device. Each of the first plurality of pistons are slidably received within a different one of a first plurality of radially extending cylinders. Each of the second plurality of pistons are slidably received within a different one of a second plurality of radially extending cylinders. The first cam is disposed about the first plurality of radially extending cylinders. The second cam is disposed about the second plurality of radially extending cylinders. The coupling device is operable to couple the cylinder block to a cylinder block of a second radial fluid device. |
| US09303630B2 |
Device for converting thermal energy into electric energy in the presence of a hot source
A device for converting thermal energy into electric energy intended to be used in combination with a hot source including: a capacitor of variable capacitance, including two electrodes separated by an electrically-insulating material, one of these electrodes being deformable and being associated with an element forming a bimetallic strip, said bimetallic strip including at least two layers of materials having different thermal expansion coefficients, said bimetallic strip being free to deform when it is submitted to the heat of said hot source; a second capacitor having a first electrode connected to a first electrode of said capacitor of variable capacitance; a harvesting circuit electrically connected between the second electrode of the capacitor of variable capacitance and the second electrode of the second capacitor, said harvesting circuit being capable of conducting the current flowing between said second electrodes. |
| US09303628B2 |
Method and apparatus for generating electrical energy
The present disclosure provides for improved systems, apparatus and methods whereby electrical energy may be generated by the action of the user of the apparatus while, for example, walking, running or other activity that places the user's weight alternately on each heel and/or toe in sequence. |
| US09303625B2 |
Operating method for a wind park
The present invention concerns a method of operating a wind park having a plurality of wind power installations. A wind power installation includes an electrical energy storage means associated with the wind power installation to store electrical energy which is consumed for starting up the wind power installation after stoppage and consumed for emergency shutdown of the wind power installation. In some embodiments, the wind power installation includes a control system to control taking of energy from the electrical energy storage means for an emergency shutdown procedure such that a sufficient emergency shutdown reserve is maintained in the electrical energy storage means to start a first wind power installation without consuming energy from a network. |
| US09303624B2 |
Fluid flow energy converter
A novel oscillator comprises a curved sheet structure. The curved sheet structure comprises a curved sheet and a tensioner. The curved sheet structure oscillates when the tensioner of the curved sheet structure is extended between two rigidly or semi rigidly fixed points and the curved sheet structure is exposed to a fluid flow. The oscillation results in oscillating tension in the tensioner and oscillating motion of the tensioner in directions perpendicular and parallel to the direction of fluid flow. Energy conversion devices to couple the energy out of the oscillator include a coupling in line with the tensioner and a coupling generally perpendicular to the extension of the tensioner. |
| US09303621B2 |
Wind turbine blade with longitudinally extending flow guiding device having a plate-shaped element
A wind turbine blade (10) for a rotor of a wind turbine (2) is provided with a longitudinally extending flow guiding device (70, 170) attached to the profiled contour. The flow guiding device comprises: a base (90, 190) having a first longitudinal end (91, 191) nearest the root end (16) and a second longitudinal end (92, 192) nearest the tip end (14), a first side (93, 193) nearest the leading edge (18) and a second side (94, 194) nearest the trailing edge (20), as well as a first surface (95, 195) and a second surface (96, 196), the first surface of the base being attached to the profiled contour, and the second surface facing away from the profiled contour. A longitudinally extending substantially plate-shaped element (97, 197) protrudes from the second surface (96, 196) of the base (90, 190). |
| US09303620B2 |
Installation/dismounting of a hub to/from a nacelle of a wind turbine by using a blade pitch angle adjustment device of the hub for orientating the hub
Disclosed is a holding device for holding a hub to be installed at a nacelle. The holding device includes a carrier element with a first connection interface configured to connect the holding device to a lifting system, and a second connection interface configured to connect the device to a blade pitch bearing of the hub. Further disclosed is a pitch operating device for operating a blade pitch angle adjustment device of a hub to be mounted to a nacelle. The pitch operating device includes an actuating unit and a power interface for connecting the pitch operating device to the blade pitch angle adjustment device. Further disclosed is a hub installation system including such a holding device and such a pitch operating device. Further, a method for installing a hub at a nacelle and a method for dismounting a hub from a nacelle are described. |
| US09303612B2 |
Hydrostatic starter device of an internal combustion engine
A hydrostatic starter device (10) for an internal combustion engine (2) having a hydrostatic power unit (11) connected with the output shaft (4) of the internal combustion engine (2) is driven with hydraulic fluid from a hydraulic fluid accumulator (12). The hydrostatic starter device (10) has an electrohydraulic charging device (30) to charge the hydraulic fluid accumulator (12) with hydraulic fluid and the hydrostatic power unit (11) is in a drive connection by a clutch device (25) with the internal combustion engine (2). The hydrostatic power unit (11) can be connected in a drive connection with the internal combustion engine (2) by the clutch device (25). |
| US09303605B2 |
System and method for circulating fuel through a direct injection pump of a bi-fuel engine
A fuel supply system for supplying a bi-fuel engine with a first fuel type, e.g., gasoline, includes a cooling circuit. The cooling circuit circulates the first fuel type through a direct injection pump assembly to prevent the first fuel type from overheating within the direct injection pump assembly. |
| US09303604B2 |
Asymmetrical orifice for bypass control
An asymmetrical orifice for bypass control in a clean fuel module may include a body having first and second end surfaces and an inner surface defining a bore through the body extending from a first opening through the first end surface to a second opening through the second end surface. The first opening has a first opening inner diameter and the second opening has a second opening inner diameter that is less than the first opening inner diameter. The asymmetrical orifice also includes a flow control contour in the second end surface surrounding the second opening of the bore. The configuration may give the asymmetrical orifice a first discharge coefficient for fluid flowing from the first opening to the second opening that is greater than a second discharge coefficient for fluid flowing in a second direction from the second opening to the first opening. |
| US09303594B2 |
Internal combustion engine
An internal combustion engine includes a combustion chamber defined by a cylinder, a piston defining a piston top, a cylinder head with an intake port and an exhaust port, and a corresponding intake valve and an exhaust valve. The internal combustion engine further includes an intake manifold for supplying air to the combustion chamber and an exhaust manifold for drawing exhaust gas from the combustion chamber. The flow dynamics of the internal combustion engine are improved by including textured surfaces on one or more of the piston top, the cylinder head, the intake valve, the intake port, the exhaust valve, the intake manifold, the exhaust manifold, or the fuel supplier. The textured surface may include indentations, protrusions, or combinations. |
| US09303592B2 |
Crankcase ventilation tube disconnect detection via humidity sensor
Methods and systems are provided for detecting degradation of a crankcase ventilation tube. Humidity sensed from a humidity sensor in the crankcase ventilation tube may provide an indication of crankcase ventilation tube disconnection during different engine operating conditions. The humidity sensor may further provide diagnosis of humidity sensor function and engine degradation. |
| US09303590B2 |
Variable area fan nozzle actuation system
An aircraft nacelle having a fixed structure fixed relative to an aircraft pylon, a translating thrust reverser sleeve translatable aftward, relative to the fixed structure, and a translating variable area fan nozzle (VAFN) panel translatable aftward, relative to the translating thrust reverser sleeve. The nacelle may also include a VAFN actuator mounted on the translating thrust reverser sleeve and a VAFN drive unit attached to the fixed structure. The VAFN drive unit may be coupled to drive the VAFN actuator via first and second coupling components when the translating thrust reverser sleeve is stowed. When the translating thrust reverser sleeve is deployed, the first and second coupling components may decouple, disconnecting the VAFN drive unit from the VAFN actuator. |
| US09303589B2 |
Low hub-to-tip ratio fan for a turbofan gas turbine engine
A fan for a turbofan gas turbine engine, the fan comprising a rotor hub and a plurality of radially extending fan blades integral with the hub to form an integrally bladed rotor. Each fan blade defines a leading edge. A hub radius (RHUB) is the radius of the leading edge at the hub relative to a centerline of the fan. A tip radius (RTIP) is the radius of the leading edge at a tip of the fan blade relative to the centerline of the fan. The ratio of the hub radius to the tip radius (RHUB/RTIP) is at least less than 0.29. In a particular embodiment, this ratio is between 0.25 and 0.29. In another particular embodiment, this ratio is less than or equal to 0.25. |
| US09303587B2 |
Rubber ring for gasket
A rubber ring for a gasket has a first bulging portion composing a seal portion; a second bulging portion composing an attachment portion; and a depressed portion between the first bulging portion and the second bulging portion. The first bulging portion includes a thickest portion carrying out a sealing function, and when the rubber ring is compressed from both sides, the second bulging portion and the depressed portion have a thickness which does not contact with the faces sandwiching the gasket. An end of the metal plate is positioned in a range of the depressed portion between the first bulging portion and the second bulging portion, and between changing points wherein each of slope face, sloping toward the depressed portion from the two bulging portions, changes into a curved surface concaving on an outer side from a curved surface projecting on the outer side. |
| US09303586B2 |
Boat propulsion device
A boat propulsion device includes an engine, a first bracket, and a first electric component. The engine includes a crankshaft extending in an up-and-down direction. The first bracket is fixed to the engine. The first electric component is attached to the first bracket. The first bracket includes a first support portion and a second support portion. The first support portion includes a first lateral surface and a second lateral surface. The first electric component is attached to the first lateral surface. The second lateral surface is arranged opposite to the first lateral surface. The second support portion is connected to the second lateral surface in a position spaced away from both ends of the second lateral surface in a top view. The second support portion includes a first coupling portion coupled to the engine. |
| US09303584B2 |
Pinless piston with gallery
A piston assembly having a piston member and a connecting rod. The piston member has a crown portion and a lower portion bonded together with a cooling gallery formed between them. The connecting rod has a ball end which is positioned in a socket in the piston member. In one embodiment, the ball end can have two flat surfaces and be held in position by C-clips. In another embodiment, the ball end is cylindrically shaped and the socket has a corresponding shape. |
| US09303583B2 |
Robust direct injection fuel pump system
A method for a PFDI engine may comprise, during a first condition, comprising direct-injecting fuel to the PFDI engine, estimating a fuel vapor pressure, and setting a fuel lift pump pressure greater than the fuel vapor pressure by a threshold pressure difference, and during a second condition, comprising port-fuel-injecting fuel to the PFDI engine, setting a DI fuel pump command signal greater than a threshold DI fuel pump command signal without supplying fuel to a DI fuel rail. |
| US09303581B2 |
Systems and methods for injecting gaseous fuel during an exhaust stroke to reduce turbo lag
Methods and systems are provided for injecting and combusting an amount of gaseous fuel during an exhaust stroke of a cylinder combustion event in order to reduce turbo lag and reduce a duration of time required for an exhaust catalyst to light-off during transient events. In one example, when an increase in torque demand is greater than a threshold, a first amount of gaseous fuel may be combusted during a compression stroke of a cylinder combustion event and a second amount of gaseous fuel may be combusted during an exhaust stroke of the combustion event. The second amount may be adjusted based on the increase in torque demand. |
| US09303580B2 |
Detection of diesel fuel gelling
A method for diagnosing a performance issue in a vehicle system having a diesel engine, a fuel system, and an on-board diagnostic system. The method includes cranking the engine, and, if a pressure sensed in the fuel system during or after the engine cranking differs by a threshold amount from the pressure sensed during a previous operation of the engine, indicating excessive fuel viscosity in the on-board diagnostic system. |
| US09303576B2 |
Method for controlling an engine
Methods and systems for controlling an engine that may be automatically stopped and started are presented. In one example, a method adjusts an amount of current to an electric device applying torque to an engine to adjust an amount of air that is pumped through the engine to a catalyst. The methods and systems may reduce engine emissions. |
| US09303575B2 |
Automatic set point adjustment system and method for engine air-fuel ratio control system
Systems and methods for continuous automatic adjustment of a control set point of an air-fuel ratio controller of a rich burn engine so as to maintain emissions within a desired range. In an embodiment, a NOx sensor is placed in the exhaust outlet from an exhaust catalyst and the NOx exhaust sensor output is continuously monitored while adjusting the control set point between rich and lean in order to minimize the output from the NOx sensor. Corrections may be continuously made to the set point during operation of the engine to compensate for changes in environmental conditions, engine loads, and other factors. |
| US09303569B2 |
Control device for internal combustion engine
An object of this invention is to appropriately control the valve timing (VT) even in a case where a plurality of local maximum points or local minimum points exist on a characteristic line representing a relation between the VT and an air amount. An engine 10 includes VVTs 42 and 44 and the like. When a predetermined operation condition that a plurality of local maximum points exist on a load characteristic line representing a relation between the VT of an intake valve 32 and a load KL is established, an ECU 60 first calculates the VT corresponding to a maximum value KLmax of the load KL as a maximum air amount VT (VTmax). Subsequently, if the maximum value KLmax of the load is less than a target KL, the ECU 60 changes the VT towards VTmax. Thus, the direction in which the VT is changed is determined based on VTmax that is calculated irrespective of a change tendency (slope) of the characteristic line or the like at the current time. Therefore, even when a plurality of local maximum points exist on a characteristic line of an air amount index, it is possible to prevent the VT from being guided by the slope of a characteristic line or the like and latching onto a local maximum point that is not the optimal point. |
| US09303567B2 |
Throttle body with offset axis drum valve
An improved throttle body includes an offset axis drum valve and shaped throat. The offset axis and shaped throat provide gradual initial opening for better throttle control and the drum valve includes a lower face matching the profile of the air path through the throttle body when rotated to a fully open throttle position, providing an optimal flow at full throttle. The offset axis drum further includes a slightly decreasing radius. As the drum opens, the surface of the drum retreats from the throttle body wall providing clearance for dusty environments and reducing tolerances for reduced manufacturing cost. A fuel injector pocket position provides a spray pattern aligned with an initial air flow as the throttle body opens providing better mixing at part throttle. The throttle body further creates a cavity under the drum in the closed position providing an increased volume in the intake tract which improves throttle response. |
| US09303566B2 |
Method for optimizing the control of a free turbine power package for an aircraft, and control for implementing same
A method optimizing fuel-injection control with driving speeds of apparatuses adjusted by controlling a turbine speed according to power, and optimizing control of a free turbine power package of an aircraft, including a low-pressure body, supplying power to apparatuses and linked to a high-pressure body. The method varies the low-pressure body speed to obtain a minimum speed for the high-pressure body, so power supplied by the apparatuses remains constant. Power supplied by the apparatuses is dependent upon the apparatuses driven speed by the low-pressure body, and a speed set point of the low-pressure body is dependent upon a maximum value of minimum speeds of the apparatuses, enabling required power to be optimized, upon a positive or zero incrementation added to the speed set point of the low-pressure body to minimize speed of the high-pressure body to the apparatuses power supply. |
| US09303563B2 |
Modulating electric liquid metering valve with flow sensing
A fluid flow valve includes a movable valve piston positioned in a valve body, the valve piston configured to flow a fluid therethrough. A metering window is interactive with the movable valve piston to meter flow through the movable valve piston. A flow meter is positioned at the valve piston to measure a flow rate of fluid through the valve piston. A valve controller is operable connected to the flow meter and the movable valve piston to control position of the valve piston based on flow rate measured at the flow meter. |
| US09303561B2 |
Turbocharger compressor noise reduction system and method
A turbocharger and a method are disclosed. The turbocharger includes a casing having an inlet end and an outlet end. A flow passage within the casing may have a substantially continuous inner surface and may be configured to pass inlet air from the inlet end to the outlet end. A compressor wheel may be located in the casing and may have at least one main blade and may be configured to rotate within the casing to compress the inlet air. A flow disrupting feature on the casing may be configured to disrupt the continuity of the inner surface and may be located at a leading edge of the at least one main blade. The flow disrupting feature may be closed to upstream communication with the flow passage except via the flow passage. |
| US09303558B2 |
Variable compression ratio engine
A system and method for providing a variable compression ratio internal combustion engine is disclosed. The system can include a frame affixed to the engine crankcase and a complementary frame affixed to the block/cylinder head assembly. The system can further comprise an actuating system to enable the block/head assembly to be moved up and down with respect to the crankcase, varying the compression ratio of the engine. A number of mechanisms can be used to achieve this movement, including a rack and pinion, a hydraulic or pneumatic actuator, and a gear drive. The compression ratio can be varied continuously during use. The frames substantially limit movement of the engine components to the y-axis, thus reducing, or eliminating, unwanted movement and stresses in other directions. |
| US09303555B2 |
Exhaust manifold
An exhaust manifold for at least a portion of an internal combustion engine having a defined number of combustion chambers includes a plurality of inlet ports and four outlet ports. A first pair of the four outlet ports are disposed in gas flow communication with a first subset of the plurality of inlet ports, and a second pair of the four outlet ports different from the first pair are disposed in gas flow communication with a second subset of the plurality of inlet ports different from the first subset. |
| US09303551B2 |
Engine start control apparatus for hybrid vehicle
In a hybrid vehicle, when using an ignition start to start a direct injection engine while any one of the cylinders has stopped near top dead center, engine revolutions are raised by producing a first explosion in a first cylinder, which is situated before a second cylinder in an ignition sequence and is in an expansion stroke and in which an exhaust value is not open, by directly injecting fuel into the first cylinder and igniting the fuel. Furthermore, assistance in increasing the engine revolutions is started by transmitting assist torque output from a motor-generator to the direct injection engine via a clutch, in a peak section immediately after the start of increase in the engine revolutions. The stopped direct injection engine can be started using a sufficient required assist torque, namely, electrical energy, whereby the electrical energy for engine starting that is always reserved in a battery (accumulator apparatus) is reduced and therefore a travel range is increased and vehicle fuel consumption is improved appropriately. |
| US09303548B2 |
Diesel engine fluid coolant system having a solenoid-powered gate valve
A diesel engine fluid reservoir system having a reservoir of diesel exhaust fluid in thermal communication with a heating element, a first conduit for the flow of engine coolant fluid to the heating element, a temperature sensor disposed to sense ambient temperature and/or a temperature of the diesel exhaust fluid, a controller communicatively coupled to the temperature sensor and communicatively coupled to a sprung gate valve included in the first conduit. The gate valve has a no-flow position and a flow position for control of the flow of engine coolant and includes an endless elastic band sandwiched between a first gate member and a second gate member each defining an opening therethrough alignable with the first conduit in the flow position. In response to a sensed temperature at which the diesel exhaust fluid is frozen, the controller signals the gate valve to be in the flow position. |
| US09303546B2 |
Discoloration protection
A method is provided for protecting at least one metallic surface against discolorations under the action of heat. The method includes applying a lacquer to the metallic surfaces and then stoving the metallic surface while sealing the metallic surface against oxygen contact to form a permanently effective oxygen barrier. |
| US09303542B2 |
Honeycomb catalyst body
A honeycomb catalyst body capable of containing in a limited space, having high mechanical strength, less pressure loss, and suitable purification performance is provided, and it includes a plugged honeycomb structure having porous partition walls defining cells, plugged portions, and porous projecting portions projecting so as to extend from the partition walls into the cells and being formed integrally with the partition walls; and catalysts loaded onto the projecting portions, wherein a porosity of the partition walls is 40 to 70%, thicknesses of the projecting portions is from 30 to 140% of thicknesses of the partition wall, an amount of the catalyst loaded onto the partition walls thereof is smaller than an amount of the catalyst loaded onto the projecting portions, one catalyst loaded onto projecting portions is a selective reduction catalyst, and another catalyst loaded onto projecting portions is an ammonia slip preventing catalyst. |
| US09303539B1 |
Universal drain plug system and method
A universal drain plug system and method allow for the use of a single tool, such as a wrench, for installing and removing drain plugs from fluid containers such as vehicle oil pans. The system includes a plurality of different drain plugs, each with a substantially identical tool-engaging head portion, but with a different threaded shaft. The threaded shafts may differ in diameter, length, and thread dimensions including thread height and pitch, for example. |
| US09303538B2 |
Oil pan casting with optional oil cooler provisions
A universal oil pan die tooling is provided for forming alternative oil pans for alternative internal combustion engines with and without an oil cooler circuit. The die tooling includes a first die member defining a cavity and a second die member having a protruding portion designed to be inserted in the cavity of the first die member to define a mold cavity therebetween that defines a shape of the oil pan. A first die insert is used along with the first die member and the second die member to form oil pans for use with an engine having an oil cooler. An alternative second die insert is used in place of the first die insert along with the first die member and the second die member to form oil pans for use with an engine without an oil cooler. |
| US09303537B2 |
Oil tank breather line solenoid valve
Disclosed herein is a device which provides a safety measure to vehicles by utilizing the dead man (tether) switch, or other electrical connection, in combination with a valve and actuator, to keep oil from leaking out of the lubrication system of the vehicle in a rollover situation. |
| US09303534B2 |
Cylinder valve system and method for altering valve profile
A cylinder valve system in an engine is provided. The cylinder valve system includes a first oil pressurized bore corresponding to a cylinder valve and in fluidic communication with a control valve assembly, the control valve assembly comprising at least one hydraulic valve and a second oil pressurized bore corresponding to the cylinder valve and in fluidic communication with the control valve assembly. |
| US09303533B2 |
Mixing assembly and method for combining at least two working fluids
A method for producing work from heat including mixing a first working fluid F1 vapor with a second working fluid F2 vapor to form a third working fluid F3; atomizing and/or vaporizing a liquid into the third working fluid F3 to define a saturated working fluid; and expanding the saturated working fluid to perform useful work. A high pressure F1(2) portion of the first working fluid F1 may be expanded prior to the mixing step while the F2 vapor is compressed prior to the mixing step. The steps of compressing the F2 vapor and expanding the high pressure F1(2) portion of the first working fluid F1 may be carried out by an integral compressor and expander assembly (204/209). The integral compressor and expander assembly (204/209) may be positioned within a combined mixer assembly (300) with an internal mixing chamber (206) and outlets (375, 351) of both the compressor (204) and expander (209) are directed toward the mixing chamber 206. |
| US09303530B2 |
Fan shroud assembly
A fan shroud assembly includes a first fan shroud and a second fan shroud. The first fan shroud includes a first segment, a second segment, and a flexible, gas impermeable seal interconnecting the first and second segments. The first segment includes an annular body. The flexible, gas impermeable seal is coupled to the first segment. The second segment includes a circumferential connecting wall and a flange extending from the circumferential connecting wall. The second fan shroud is coupled to the second segment. |
| US09303528B2 |
Mid-turbine frame thermal radiation shield
A thermal radiation shield comprises a first mounting base and a ring section. The first mounting base is disposed at a first axial end of the ring section for securing the shield ring section within a generally annular cavity defined at least in part by a hot fluid flow path boundary wall, and a radially adjacent and spaced apart cold fluid flow path boundary wall. The ring section is configured to substantially block a line of sight between the hot fluid flow path boundary wall and the cold fluid flow path boundary wall. |
| US09303524B2 |
Variable area turbine nozzle with a position selector
A gas turbine engine (100) variable nozzle (460) includes an outer shroud (461), an inner shroud (462), a variable nozzle airfoil (463), and a position selector (470). The inner shroud (462) is located radially inward from the outer shroud (461). The variable nozzle airfoil (463) extends radially between the outer shroud (461) and the inner shroud (462). The variable nozzle airfoil (463) includes a vane shaft (464) extending radially outward from the variable nozzle airfoil (463) through the outer shroud (461). The position selector (470) is coupled with the variable nozzle airfoil (463) to fixedly lock the variable nozzle airfoil (463) into one of a plurality of preselected positions. |
| US09303523B2 |
Sensor communication system and machine having the same
A sensor communication system includes an electromagnetic waveguide disposed adjacent to at least one component of a machine. The electromagnetic waveguide can be configured to convey a fluid within the machine. The sensor communication system can also include a sensor assembly, which includes a sensor operable to sense at least one condition and a transmitter at least partially positioned in the electromagnetic waveguide. The transmitter can be operatively coupled to the sensor and be operable to emit a signal corresponding to the at least one condition sensed by the sensor. The sensor communication system can also include a receiver at least partially positioned in the electromagnetic waveguide and operable to wirelessly receive the signal emitted by the transmitter. |
| US09303521B2 |
Interstage coverplate assembly for arranging between adjacent rotor stages of a rotor assembly
An interstage coverplate assembly is provided for a rotor assembly. The coverplate assembly includes an annular first coverplate, an annular second coverplate and an annular coverplate lock that extends axially between and rotatably connects the first and the second coverplates. The first coverplate includes a plurality of coverplate tabs arranged circumferentially around an axial centerline. The coverplate lock includes a plurality of lock tabs arranged circumferentially around the centerline. A first of the lock tabs circumferentially engages a first of the coverplate tabs. |
| US09303519B2 |
Damper for a turbine rotor assembly
A damper for a turbine rotor assembly of a gas turbine engine may include a forward plate including a forward face and an aft face, and an aft plate including a forward face and an aft face. The aft face of the forward plate may be connected to the forward face of the aft plate with a longitudinal structure. An area of the aft plate in a plane transverse to the longitudinal structure may be larger than an area of the forward plate in the plane transverse to the longitudinal structure. The damper may also include a nub projecting from a lower portion of the aft face of the aft plate. |
| US09303518B2 |
Gas turbine engine component having platform cooling channel
A component for a gas turbine engine according to an exemplary embodiment can include a platform having an outer surface and an inner surface. A cover plate can be positioned adjacent to the outer surface of the platform. The outer surface of the platform can include a pocket and the cover plate is positioned relative to the pocket to establish a platform cooling channel therebetween. |
| US09303517B2 |
Channel marker and related methods
Various embodiments of the disclosure include a component, methods of forming components, and methods of cooling components. In some embodiments, a component is disclosed including: a body; a microchannel extending through a portion of the body; a thermal barrier coating (TBC) covering a portion of the microchannel; and a marker member extending from the microchannel through the TBC or from an end of the microchannel, the marker member indicating a location of the microchannel in the body. |
| US09303515B2 |
Turbomachine diaphragm and method of repairing a turbomachine diaphragm
A turbomachine diaphragm includes a sealing section having a first end portion that extends to a second end portion through an intermediate portion. At least one rail member includes a first end section that extends from the first end portion of the sealing section to a second end section through an intermediate section having an inner surface section and an outer surface section. The second end section includes a machined surface having a repair coupon mounting element. A repair coupon is mounted at the repair coupon mounting element and operatively connected to the at least one rail member. A method of repairing a turbomachine diaphragm is also disclosed herein. |
| US09303502B2 |
Method of controlling water production through treating particles with RPMS
Water production from a subterranean formation is inhibited or controlled by pumping a fluid containing coated particles through a wellbore into the formation. The particles have been previously coated with a relative permeability modifier (RPM). Upon contact with water, the RPM coating expands or swells and inhibits and controls the production of water. The RPM may be a water hydrolyzable polymer having a weight average molecular weight greater than 100,000. The particles may be conventional proppants or gravel. |
| US09303491B2 |
Subsea cooler and method for cleaning the subsea cooler
There is disclosed a subsea cooler for the cooling of a fluid flowing in a subsea flow line. The subsea cooler comprises an inlet and an outlet which are connectable to the subsea flow line and at least two cooling sections arranged in fluid communication with the inlet and the outlet of the subsea cooler. Each cooling section includes a plurality of cooling pipes which are configured such that they exchange heat energy with the surrounding sea water when the subsea cooler is in use. The subsea cooler is further provided with valve means such that the flow of fluid through the cooling sections may be regulated individually. There is also disclosed a method for removal of accumulated wax, hydrates and sand and debris which has accumulated in the subsea cooler wherein separate cooling section are shut off whereby the temperature of the fluid flowing through the subsea cooler is increased thereby melting the wax and hydrates, and whereby the speed of the fluid flow through the subsea cooler is increased thereby jetting out sand and debris. |
| US09303489B2 |
Subsea control modules and methods related thereto
The present invention relates to subsea control modules (SCMs). According to an aspect of the invention, there is provided a subsea control module (10) comprising a hydraulic manifold (12) and two separately retrievable subsea electronic modules (24a, 24b). The present invention also relates to a method of maintaining a subsea control module, and to a method of modifying an existing subsea control module. |
| US09303486B2 |
Tool assembly including an equalization valve
A tool assembly including an equalization valve allowing for continuous equalization of pressure above and below a sealing element includes a housing having a fluid passageway that is fluidically continuous across a sealing element disposed on a mandrel. The mandrel is part of a sealing assembly that contains the sealing element. The equalization valve includes a valve plug moveable from an open to a seated position wherein the valve plug is seated against the sealing mandrel. The valve plug defines a conduit that provides minimal fluid flow across the sealing element when the valve plug is seated against the sealing mandrel. The equalization valve further includes an outer port for permitting lateral flow of fluid from the tubing string to the annulus defined between the tubing string and the wellbore. The equalization valve may be part of a downhole tool assembly which includes the equalization valve and a sealing assembly. |
| US09303484B2 |
Dissolvable subterranean tool locking mechanism
A hydrostatically set packer is held against setting by a locking member that is made of controlled electrolytic material (CEM). After introduction into a wellbore and exposure to thermal or well fluid inputs the lock made of CEM dissolves or is otherwise weakened to the point where relative movement can occur for the setting of the packer with available hydrostatic pressure. The locking member can also be a shape memory alloy at least in part whose shape change allows the tool to set. |
| US09303483B2 |
Swellable packer with enhanced sealing capability
A swellable packer with enhanced sealing capability. A packer assembly includes multiple seal elements, each seal element being swellable downhole, each seal element having at least one face inclined relative to a longitudinal axis of the assembly, and the inclined faces of adjacent seal elements contacting each other. A method of constructing a packer assembly having a desired differential pressure sealing capability includes: providing a base pipe and multiple seal elements, each seal element being swellable in a downhole environment, and each seal element having a predetermined differential pressure sealing capability less than the desired sealing capability; and after the desired sealing capability is determined, installing a selected number of the seal elements on the base pipe, so that the combined predetermined differential pressure sealing capabilities of the installed seal elements is at least as great as the desired sealing capability. |
| US09303480B2 |
Inner drilling riser tie-back connector for subsea wellheads
A method and system for coupling a riser to a subsea wellhead are disclosed. A first terminal end of a riser comprised of an inner riser and an outer riser is coupled to the platform and a second terminal end of the riser is coupled to a wellhead. The second terminal end of the inner riser is coupled to an inner drilling riser tie-back connector (“ITBC”) having a main body. The ITBC is landed on a landing shoulder disposed within the subsea wellhead. A downward weight is applied to the main body. The application of the downward weight to the main body couples the ITBC and the subsea wellhead. |
| US09303478B2 |
Downhole tool and method for passing control line through tool
A method of deploying a tool in a wellbore includes installing a tool body at an upper end of a tubular string extending from a wellbore, the body having at least one control line groove formed on its outer surface with the at least one control line housed therein. The method also includes providing an assembly strung on the at least one control line. The assembly includes an element with at least one ring on each end thereof; at least one ring on each end of the element; a locking ring at an upper end of the assembly. The method further includes installing the assembly over the body to house the at least one control line between the body and the assembly. |
| US09303475B2 |
Tool with multisize segmented ring seat
A wellbore tool which includes a housing having an axial flowbore and a piston sleeve movably disposed within the flowbore. The tool is moveable between first and second operating positions by an actuation mechanism having a piston with a seat having a plurality of separate arcuate segments. The tool can be moved between first and second operating positions with the use of actuating plugs of different sizes that can be landed upon the seat. |
| US09303465B2 |
Releasably lockable, retrievable, mule shoe assembly
A mule shoe assembly for use in directional drilling which advantageously has releasable locking means to free the directional orienting tool from engagement with the outer mule shoe in situations where the drill bit may become stuck. The releasable locking means comprises a moveable pin which engages an aperture. A first configuration utilizes detent means and spring biasing of the pin. In a second configuration, the pin is adapted for locking engagement by pressurized downhole drilling mud, and may be disengaged from the aperture when pressure from drilling mud ceases. In a preferred embodiment the pin both has detent means and is spring biased, and also relies on drilling mud pressure to remain in locking engagement. The pin may be disengaged upon removal of drilling mud pressure and application of a positive separation force between the directional measurement tool and associated inner tool member, and outer mule shoe member. |
| US09303459B2 |
Drilling apparatus
An apparatus for drilling a wellbore (10) is disclosed, the apparatus comprising a lowermost pilot drill bit (16) having a diameter less than that of the diameter of wellbore (12) drilled by the apparatus, above which is a reamer, having an adjustable drill diameter from a first diameter less than that of the pilot drill to a second diameter greater than that of the pilot drill, above which is a body portion (24) having a lower diameter less than that of the pilot drill and an upper diameter greater than that of the pilot' drill but less than the second diameter of the reamer. |
| US09303457B2 |
Directional drilling using magnetic biasing
Apparatus and methods are disclosed for directionally drilling an earth formation where magnet arrays are utilized to provide net lateral force between a first member coupled to a drill bit and another member that either extends through or around the first member. |
| US09303456B1 |
Power ice screw system and methods of use
A power ice screw system including an ice screw and screw adapter configured to engage the ice screw, thus enabling use of a power drill to install the ice screw in an ice feature, is described. The ice screw includes a drive head configured to engage the screw adapter. The screw adapter includes clearing ports that enable the adapter to expel ice that enters the adapter from within the ice screw hollow core. The ice screw core extends through the drive head to permit ice to flow through the ice screw and into the adapter. A cutting member resides within the screw adapter, typically disposed between two clearing ports. The cutting member can be flanked by two flanges configured to direct ice that has been disrupted by the cutting member outwardly through the clearing ports. The power drill is typically a lightweight battery powered electric driver. |
| US09303451B2 |
System for pivoting a blind slat
Systems and methods for pivoting a blind slat by manipulating one or more tilt cords of a set of blind slats to achieve superior blind closure. More particularly, the present invention relates to a window covering having a blind slat that is rotated clockwise or counter-clockwise by rotating a driving mechanism that is positioned in a horizontal orientation. The present invention further relates to a window covering system that achieves tilting of blind slats without requiring the traditional tilting components of standard Venetian-type blinds. |
| US09303447B1 |
Elastomeric gasket for fuel access door of an aircraft wing and a method for making the same
An assembly for use on an aircraft wing having an aircraft skin and a fuel tank, the assembly comprising a metal access door for accessing the fuel tank, a metal retainer ring for engaging the wing and the access door. Fasteners removably couple the access door to the retainer ring. A lip, which may be on the wing surface, is configured to receive a perimeter of the access door when the access door is coupled to the retainer ring. A polyurethane elastomeric gel gasket having a metallic skeleton is configured to lay between the access door and a lip of the metal wing surface. Under compression, the polyurethane will deform and squeeze out the edges and flatten so as to provide metal-to-metal contact between the access door and the lip. |
| US09303444B1 |
Door rail system
A door rail system for mounting a pane includes a clamp housing having a tapered projection and a pair of clamps having a recess. A screw fastens the clamps together from a side of the clamp housing so that the recesses and tapered projection are configured to form a secure dovetail joint for holding a pane. The recesses (and clamps) are symmetrical and the tapered projection is at the center so that a pane can be securely held at the center without being tilted. The door rail system includes an accessory channel and first and second mounting members. The first and second mounting members are slidably attached to each other by a sliding dovetail joint so that each mounting member can slide against the other mounting member. |
| US09303443B2 |
Folding facade or folding awning arrangement and actuating device for the same
A folding façade or folding awning arrangement includes at least two façade or awning elements, wherein a first façade or awning element is fixed on a building so that it can pivot about an axis, and wherein a second façade or awning element is pivotally held about a second displaceable axis and can be displaced along guides by way of a drive member, and wherein further a first collapsing edge of the first façade or awning element is pivotally connected to a second collapsing edge of the second façade and awning element to form a collapsing joint and can be moved in a manner released from the guides, collapsing transversely to the façade. The arrangement further includes at least one collapsible/fold-out and/or locking arrangement. Safe operation is achieved in that at least one pivoting actuating element is provided in the form of a collapsing/fold-out, pulling/drawing, and/or locking arrangement. |
| US09303439B2 |
Automatic locking apparatus
An automatic locking apparatus mounted to a trash bin is provided. The automatic locking apparatus may also include a pair of lock bar arms and a lock bar that pivots from an unreleased position to a released position. The automatic locking apparatus may include a pivot bar, a biasing mechanism and a pivot rod. The pivot rod may rotate from a locked position to an unlocked position. The pair of lock bar arms may be perpendicularly joined to the pivot bar. The biasing mechanism may be disposed about the pivot bar so as to engage an upper tab provided by the bar pivot rod, when the bar pivot rod is in the locked position. When the pair of lock bar arms rotate to the released position, torque may be transmitted through the pivot bar to the biasing mechanism so as to urge the lock bar arms back to the unreleased position. When the pivot rod may be in the unlocked position the upper tab may be disengaged from the biasing mechanism so as to bypass biasing mechanism, when moving the pivot bar to the released position. |
| US09303437B1 |
Closure assembly incorporating an integrated articulating closure hinge and cover
A closure assembly is provided including a closure having a closure hinge, a closure hinge cover and a linkage between the closure and the cover. When the closure is in a closed position, the cover extends in a plane overlying the closure hinge. When the closure is an opened position the cover is displaced to an open position to allow the closure hinge to pass through the plane that the cover assumes when the closure is closed. |
| US09303434B2 |
Door latch device
A slidable device allows a door to be locked but prevented from latching into the doorjamb until a sliding mechanism releases the door latch. |
| US09303431B2 |
Door entry system
A door entry device comprising includes a case, a key holder and a key pad. The case covers a door-locking device on a door. The key holder has a slot into which a key end fits. The knob is mounted on the case. A currently active security code can be entered into the keypad. When the currently active security code has been entered into the keypad, turning the knob results in turning the key holder to unlock the door-locking device. |
| US09303430B2 |
Integrated door operator hardware with recessed handle
Disclosed in one aspect is the fixed door pull handle assembly that includes an elongated door pull handle with two or more support standoffs projecting away from the elongated door pull handle and securing the elongated door pull handle to the doorframe or to the body of the door. One of the support standoffs is user rotatable, and rotatably engages a door latch assembly within the door. In another aspect, the support standoff is not user rotatable. Instead, a center-pivoting handle is mounted in-line with one of the support standoffs and rotatably engages the door latch assembly within the door. The center-pivoting handle is recessed within the elongated handle. |
| US09303427B1 |
Canopies and canopy support structures
A canopy support structure includes first and second hubs coupled to and movable along the pole or first and second hubs of which one is coupled to and movable along a track. The first and second hubs are movable toward each other during extension of the canopy support structure and away from each other during retraction of the canopy support structure. A plurality of articulating arms is connected directly or indirectly to the first and second hubs. The articulating arms include sets of scissor-connected primary articulating arms. At least some of the sets of scissor-connected primary articulating arms are connected directly to the first and second hubs and extend outward from the first and secondary hubs during expansion of the canopy support structure. |
| US09303426B2 |
Modular frame and structure system
A modular frame and structure system and method includes a framework and a cover coupled to the framework and configured to provide a desired structure. The framework includes a plurality of elongated frame members, and a plurality of coupling members for coupling the elongated frame members. One or more of the coupling members includes a releasable connecting device having a connecting mode for connecting the coupling members to the frame members and form the framework, the releasable connecting device having a release mode for disconnecting the elongated frame members from the coupling members. The cover includes one or more interlocking wall panels configured to engage and be supported by the elongated frame members, and one or more interlocking roof panels configured to engage and be supported by the elongated frame members. |
| US09303420B2 |
Port-a-pod-y portable restroom system
A portable restroom system that includes: a utilities trunk; a waste water holding tank; and a plurality of restroom units. The utilities trunk and the waste water holding tank each extend through each one of the plurality of restroom units. |
| US09303418B2 |
Climbing cylinder of self-climbing formwork
A self-climbing formwork has a stationary climbing shoe (18) structured for attachment to a wall anchor point and a climbing cylinder (10) having a lower end directly contacting the climbing shoe (18) to form a hinge, the hinge defining a pivoting movement of the climbing cylinder (10) relative to the climbing shoe (18). A support (30) is provided on an upper end of the climbing cylinder (10), the support (30) having a protrusion defining a U-shaped recess. A climbing rail (22) is structured to be held in position by the climbing shoe (18) relative to the anchor point and guided along the wall through cooperation with the climbing shoe (18). Upon extension of the climbing cylinder (10), the support (30) engages beneath an upper engagement point (24″, 24″) of the climbing rail (22) at the U-shaped recess to urge the climbing rail (22) in an upward direction. |
| US09303417B2 |
Dual latching horizontal scaffold member
One embodiment of the invention is a horizontal scaffold member having a primary end connector and a secondary end connector. Each end connector is configured to couple to a cup on a vertical scaffold member. Each end connector includes a wedge assembly having a handle and a wedge, movable with respect to the wedge head to a latched and unlatched position. The primary wedge assembly is connected to the secondary wedge assembly by a cable, and configured so that moving the primary wedge assembly to an unlatched position also moves the secondary wedge assembly to an unlatched position. |
| US09303416B1 |
Spray apparatus
An improved spray apparatus designed to optimize the pattern of the texture material and the performance of the spray apparatus to look and perform similar to a hopper texture gun or texture spray rig used by professionals. The spray apparatus, has a housing defining a cavity. A transfer wheel is rotatably mounted to the housing, the transfer wheel having a hub defining a hub axis, and a plurality of transfer flaps. A propeller is rotatably mounted to the housing and positioned above the transfer wheel, the propeller having a spindle and a plurality of fins. A firing pin is attached to the housing above the propeller. An actuator is mounted to the housing to cause the propeller to rotate. |
| US09303415B1 |
Method, apparatus, and system for measuring cuts
A measuring apparatus is provided for measuring cuts of a working material. The measuring apparatus may include: tracing sheets, one or more pins, or a jig member. The one or more transparent tracing sheets are configured for marking a cut area. The one or more pins are configured to engage the tracing sheets proximal to the cut area. In one embodiment, the jig member includes one or more cylinder mounts and one or more spring clamps. The one or more transparent tracing sheets are configured for receipt within the one or more spring clamps. The one or more pins are configured for receipt within the one or more cylinder mounts. In operation, the pins and jig member engage proximal to a cut area to facilitate marking an outline of the cut area on the tracing sheets which are subsequently cut and used in measuring and cutting of the working material. |
| US09303412B2 |
Floor covering and method for producing the same
A floor covering comprising an essentially sheet-shaped or plate-shaped matrix made of an elastomeric material. The matrix is provided with particles where the particles are made of a thermoplastic elastomer. |
| US09303408B1 |
Multi-pitch gable pediment
A multi-pitch gable pediment integrally molded for depending from a gable-type roof. The multi-pitch gable pediment may include one or more incremental markings. At least one incremental marking illustrates a pitch angle. The incremental marking may be used to separate a portion of the integrally molded multi-pitch gable pediment from a remaining portion to contour to a predetermined pitch angle of a roof. |
| US09303407B2 |
Highly reflective roofing system
A cool roofing system includes highly reflective calcined kaolin particles having a solar reflectance of 80% to 92%. When applied to a roofing substrate, the highly reflective kaolin particles produce a roofing system having a solar reflectance greater than or equal to 70%. |
| US09303406B2 |
Modified permanent cap
A permanent stressed end cap for a post tensioned concrete member includes a grout retention feature adapted to retain a filler material within a void formed by a pocket former. The grout retention feature may be a generally knob or mushroom shaped, hex-headed, or square body extending from the cap. The grout retention feature may include one or more protrusions extending from the exterior of the cap. The grout retention feature may include one or more surface textures on the exterior of the cap. |
| US09303405B2 |
Modular truss system
A modular truss system includes an upper chord and a lower chord. Each of the upper and lower chords has a pair of terminal ends and each of the upper and lower chords is arcuate between associated ones of the pair of terminal ends. A plurality of branches is removably attached to and extends between the upper and lower chords. Each of the branches has a first end and a second end comprising a saddle that receives one of the upper or lower chords at a fixed angle with respect to the upper and lower chords. The saddles ensure the branches are properly placed on the upper and lower chords. |
| US09303404B2 |
Insulated structural panel connector
An insulated composite structural panel comprises a first concrete layer, a second concrete layer, and an insulation layer disposed therebetween. One or more shear ties are embedded in the panel. The shear ties include a base portion and a plurality of elongated anchor elements extending from the base portion. A portion of each anchor element extends through the first and second concrete layers and insulation layer. The tie is formed of a material exhibiting ductile elastic-plastic behavior under an applied shear load. In a non-limiting example, the tie may be formed of a fiber reinforced polymer. The tie is constructed and acts to form stable flexural hinges at the interface between the insulation layer and each concrete layer. During a shear load event, portions of the anchor elements within the insulation laterally deform in a ductile manner to keep the structural panel relatively intact. |
| US09303401B2 |
Partition system
A partition system includes a plurality of wall elements merging one into another, wherein at least one wall element is designed as a stepped element, and wherein at least one wall element is designed as a corner element. |
| US09303392B2 |
Device and method for use in personal hygiene, in particular when taking a shower or a bath or when washing hands
The invention relates to a device, to a capsule and to a method for use in personal hygiene, in particular when taking a shower or a bath or when washing hands. According to one aspect of the invention, a device for use in personal hygiene, in particular when taking a shower or a bath or when washing hands, is provided which is designed and adapted such that into the device a capsule, in particular a multi-chamber capsule, can be inserted. Advantageously, the device comprises an appliance for opening the capsule, such as by damaging a capsule wall in order to open the capsule. The appliance for opening the capsule can be adapted to push open or puncture the capsule wall, in particular to pierce a hole into the capsule wall. Advantageously, the capsule is a disposable capsule or an expendable article. |
| US09303390B2 |
Work machine and work management system
A work machine includes: a work state detection unit detecting a physical amount; a time integration unit calculating a time integration value; a determination unit associating the time integration value with a predetermined operating angle of an excavation-loading mechanism and determining that an operation of an operation lever is performed at a time the time integration value is not smaller than a predetermined integration value; a counting unit performing accumulation adding with number of times of loading as once at a time each operation is an excavation-loading work performed in an order of: an excavation operation; a forward swing operation; a soil discharge operation; and a backward swing operation; a default setting unit setting a bucket capacity; a workload calculation unit calculating a workload by multiplying the number of times of loading by the bucket capacity; and an output unit outputting the workload. |
| US09303386B2 |
Tool attachments on an auto-powered mobile machine
An auto-powered mobile machine with controls for a riding operator and a system for carrying and making efficient use of a variety of attachable tools. Most of the tools operate in a linear fashion and are most effective when held to one side of the machine with respect to its direction of movement. The machine includes wheels or tracks, a mounting base for attaching a controllable tool and, above the mounting base, a swivel on which sits an operator's seat and controls. An articulating arm is attached above the swivel so the operator may operate in a coordinated way a lower tool which does not swivel and an upper tool which does swivel to accomplish a job more efficiently than it could be accomplished using tools separately mounted one at a time. Wireless radio communication from the controls to the lower tool may allow the swivel to spin any number of times without limitation. A tool mounting base, which may also be an earth moving blade, moves vertically up and down staying plumb rather than pivoting and not remaining plumb. Hydraulic tool position controls respond to a string datum line, a curb, or GPS data. The system is completed by a variety of tool attachments, including a novel fence installer. |
| US09303384B2 |
Cavitating water jet hard rock dredge mining system
The present invention provides a system and method to efficiently and effectively dredge in the presence of hard rock. An additional aspect of the present invention is to provide a system that induces cavitation bubbles and/or a vortex flow within a dredging cutter head by use of water jets mounted within a cavity of the cutter head. The cavitation bubbles and/or vortex flow produced by the water jets urge comminution of hard rock encountered during dredging operations, providing a more effective and efficient dredging of waterways than conventional approaches. |
| US09303383B2 |
Lift arm cross member
A lift arm cross member may connect a tilt lever support to a pair of lift arms. The lift arm cross member may have a top plate with a generally convex outer surface as the outer surface extends from a first end edge to a second end edge, and a bottom plate having first and second end edges, a first planar portion extending from the second end edge, and a curved portion extending from the first planar portion opposite the second end edge. The first end edge of the bottom plate may be connected to an inner surface of the top plate and the second end edge of the first plate may be connected to an inner surface of the bottom plate. A buffer plate may be provided within the lift arm cross member and extend between the inner surfaces of the top and bottom plates. |
| US09303382B2 |
Collar for marine pile repair and method of using the same
A collar for repairing a marine support has a tubular upper segment, a tubular lower segment, and a middle segment providing a transition region between the upper and lower segments. The collar can be opened and closed along a slit extending from the upper end of the collar to the lower end of the collar. To repair a marine support, the collar is opened and positioned so as to surround the marine pile and the extension. The collar is then closed and secured along the slit. The upper end of the collar is secured to the extension, and the lower end of the collar is secured closely along the perimeter of the pile. A flowable fill material is then injected into spaces between the collar and the marine support, filling or encasing voids or damaged areas on the marine support. |
| US09303381B2 |
Handhole and manhole anti-theft insert
An anti-theft insert capable of preventing unauthorized access to a handhole and manhole and preventing the theft of the internal components of the handhole and manhole, the anti-theft insert comprises a cap, the cap including a chamfer and a top surface, a post member, the post member including a keyway, and at least one anchor point. The post member is configured to support the cap. An outer diameter of the cap is sized to fit within an inner diameter of the handhole and manhole. The weight of the anti-theft device is of a sufficient amount so as to prevent the unauthorized removal of the anti-theft device from the handhole and manhole. |
| US09303379B1 |
Thermal insulation barrier system
An improved thermal insulation barrier system for use in a grade beam, footing and wall assembly is disclosed. According to a preferred embodiment, the system includes a plurality of insulation panels which are interlocked with fasteners and aligned beneath a building envelope and extending inside of the grade beam, footing, and wall assembly. The plurality of panels is preferably aligned proximate to an exterior wall. |
| US09303375B2 |
Cable based vehicle barrier fence
A vehicle barrier fence for arresting an impacting vehicle of substantial mass within a selected distance of the fence. The fence having, in part: a retaining structure, at least one cable having a first end comprising a cable terminator, a post having an orifice defined there through sized to receive the cable terminator into the post, and a cable retainer for retaining the cable terminator within the post. |
| US09303372B2 |
Sychronous control integrated system for bridge lifting
A synchronous control integrated system for bridge lifting, comprising a monitor mechanism; an oil pressure control mechanism, connected to the monitor mechanism; a plurality of jacks, each connected to the oil pressure mechanism, respectively; and a sensor mechanism, connected to the monitor mechanism. As such, a shift variance generated by girders of a bridge may form a signal by using a sensor mechanism and jacks together transmitted on line to a monitor mechanism as a control parameter, so that the monitor mechanism may have an accurate adjustment and monitoring on an oil pressure control mechanism and the jacks, whereby completing the synchronous control operation for the bridge lifting course. Furthermore, the bridge lifting construction may have its improved accuracy and safety. |
| US09303369B1 |
Embedding photocatalytic titanium dioxide in asphalt surfaces to reduce pollutants via photocatalytic reactions
Methods for embedding photocatalytic titanium dioxide in asphalt surfaces to reduce pollutants via photocatalytic reactions include applying an amount of an asphalt surface treatment compound to an upper surface of the asphalt surface, the asphalt surface treatment compound including a mixture of a liquid carrier compound with a titanium dioxide (TiO2) photocatalyst. |
| US09303368B2 |
Method for scanning and repairing road corrosion and apparatus therefor
An apparatus including a multidirectional positioning system and a scanner. The scanner scans the volume of a three-dimensional cavity, and the scanner is attached to the multidirectional positioning system. A processor receives volume data of the cavity and stores the volume data in a data storage memory. A material depositing mechanism is attached to the multidirectional positioning system, and the material depositing mechanism is controlled to move with respect to a shape of the cavity based on the volume data stored in the processor so as to fill in the cavity with a filler material. |
| US09303357B2 |
Paper and nonwoven articles comprising synthetic microfiber binders
A paper or nonwoven article is provided comprising a nonwoven web layer, wherein the nonwoven web layer comprises a plurality of fibers and a plurality of binder microfibers, wherein the binder microfibers comprise a water non-dispersible, synthetic polymer; wherein the binder microfibers have a length of less than 25 millimeters and a fineness of less than 0.5 d/f; and wherein the binder microfibers have a melting temperature that is less than the melting temperature of the fibers. |
| US09303356B2 |
Film structures for self locking nonwoven industrial textile
A profiled film structure, textiles comprising at least two layers of the structure, and methods of making the structure and textiles. Each film layer is profiled with regularly arranged protrusions, separated by planar land areas. Portions of at least one side wall of the protrusions are slit to create apertures extending through the film and top members forming coplanar latching means extending over the apertures. When the upper surface of a first layer of the film is brought into contiguous relationship with the upper surface of a second layer of the film, and the protrusions of each of the respective layers are aligned between adjacent protrusions of the other layer, the latching means of each layer are received and retained within the apertures of the opposing layer, resulting in an efficiently assembled self-locking structure having selectable permeability for fluid flow through the structure. |
| US09303354B2 |
Linoleum flooring
A linoleum flooring product in one embodiment includes a linoleum substrate and a printed wear layer comprising a decorative indicia. The printed wear layer includes a wear layer and an ink print layer. The linoleum substrate may include a base linoleum layer applied on a backing material, and in some embodiments further includes a visual linoleum layer formed on top of the base linoleum layer. The printed wear layer may be adhesively bonded onto the linoleum substrate. In one embodiment, an ultraviolet curable adhesive may be used. A related method for forming the linoleum flooring product is also provided. |
| US09303353B2 |
Basket
A basket comprising a body and at least one strap, the body consisting of a bottom and an open top. The body includes ventilation holes which are also used as projection-receiving openings through which locking mechanisms may engage. At least one strap may be connected to the body in a variety of locations, based upon user preference and at least one strap may be adjustable for ease of use. The body also comprises guide slots through which the straps may be fed prior to their connection to the body. The body may also include handles which may be located in a variety of places near or within the top edge of the body. The basket may be used with or without straps, providing the user with versatility of use. |
| US09303352B2 |
Washing machine wherein the unbalanced load is balanced
A washing machine (1) is described comprising a hub (5) which extends from the middle of the rear wall of the tub (3) into the drum (2) and wherein the shaft (4) is supported, at least one drum baffle (9) disposed at the inner surface of the drum (2), wherein water is transferred in case of an unbalanced load, a cylindrical housing (6) disposed at the center of the rear wall of the drum (2) around the horizontal axis, surrounding the hub (5) concentrically such that a gap remains between the hub (5) and the cylindrical housing (6) and rotating together with the drum (2), more than one ring-shaped gasket (7) arranged one after the other and in parallel to each other in the gap between the housing (6) and the hub (5), the outer edges of which are secured to the inner surface of the housing (6), rotating together with the housing (6) and the inner edges of which contact the cylindrical outer surface of the hub (5), more than one slot (8) disposed between the gaskets (7), at least two water inlet lines (13, 113) which provide water taken from the water mains to be delivered to the slot (8) for the balancing process of the unbalanced load, one ends of which are connected to the water mains and the other ends connected to the slot (8) and which are stationary together with the tub (3) and a control unit (12) which opens/closes the water inlet valves (11, 111) by determining the amount and position of the unbalanced load when unbalanced load is detected and which determines how much water should be delivered into which drum baffle (9) and chamber (10, 110). |
| US09303345B2 |
Cutting needle rotation device and sewing machine
A cutting needle rotation device includes a mounting portion, a first member, a moving member, and a rotation mechanism. The mounting portion is removably mounted on a needle bar of a sewing machine. The first member is a member to which a cutting needle is affixed. The moving member is positioned in a first position when the moving member does not receive an external force and moves to a second position when the moving member receives an external force. The rotation mechanism, when the moving member is in the first position, holds the first member such that the cutting needle does not rotate, and when the moving member moves from the first position to the second position and returns from the second position to the first position, rotates the first member such that the cutting needle rotates by a specified angle of rotation in one direction. |
| US09303344B2 |
Sewing machine and non-transitory computer readable medium
A sewing machine includes a bed, a needle plate, a needle bar, a needle bar swing mechanism, a lift mechanism, an optical detecting portion, and a control portion. The lift mechanism is configured to raise and lower a presser foot. The optical detecting portion is configured to optically detect a cord guided by the guide portion, and to output data representing the cord. The control portion is configured to calculate a width of the cord based on the data output by the optical detecting portion, calculate a height position of the presser foot based on the width of the cord, and cause the lift mechanism to move the presser foot to the height position. |
| US09303341B2 |
Process to produce soft polypropylene-based nonwovens
Disclosed herein is a nonwoven fabric comprising within the range of from 1 to 49 wt %, by weight of the fabric, of a reactor grade propylene-α-olefin copolymer possessing; within the range of from 5 to 35 wt %, by weight of the copolymer, of units derived from one or more of ethylene and/or C4 to C12 α-olefins; a melt flow rate (230° C./2.16 kg) within the range of from 600 to 7500 g/10 min; and a weight average molecular weight of less than 200,000; and a second polypropylene having a melting point, Tm, of greater than 110° C. and a melt flow rate (230° C./2.16 kg) within the range of from 20 to 7500 g/10 min; wherein the fabric has a Handle value of less than 60% (measuring the fabric of 35 g/m2 basis weight). The fabric can be used in structures comprising one or more layers of the fabric described herein, and can include any number of other fabric layers made from other materials. |
| US09303339B2 |
Method and apparatus for forming a fibrous media
Methods and apparatuses for forming a nonwoven web are described herein. The apparatus includes a mixing partition defining one or more openings therein that permit fluid communication between two fluid flow streams, at least one of which includes a fiber. The apparatus also includes an enclosed region surrounding at least a portion of the mixing partition. The enclosed region is adapted to provide an applied pressure to a fluid flow stream to urge the stream through one or more of the openings in the mixing partition. The apparatus also includes a receiving region designed to receive at least a combined flow stream and form a nonwoven web by collecting fiber from the combined flow stream. |
| US09303327B2 |
Electric component with an electrophoretically deposited film
A system, a packaged component and a method for making a packaged component are disclosed. In an embodiment a system comprises a component carrier, a component disposed on the component carrier and an insulating layer disposed on an electrically conductive surface of at least one of the component carrier or the component, wherein the insulating layer comprises a polymer and an inorganic material comprising a dielectric strength of equal or greater than 15 ac-kv/mm and a thermal conductivity of equal or greater than 15 W/m*K. |
| US09303326B2 |
Acidic gold alloy plating solution
A gold alloy plating solution and plating method thereof that provides a gold plating solution with high deposition selectivity by using a gold plating solution that contains gold cyanide, cobalt ions, hexamethylene tetramine, and specific glossing agents. |
| US09303323B2 |
Extraction of carbon dioxide and hydrogen from seawater and hydrocarbon production therefrom
Apparatus for seawater acidification including an ion exchange, cathode and anode electrode compartments and cation-permeable membranes that separate the electrode compartments from the ion exchange compartment. Means is provided for feeding seawater through the ion exchange compartment and for feeding a dissociable liquid media through the anode and cathode electrode compartments. A cathode is located in the cathode electrode compartment and an anode is located in the anode electrode compartment and a means for application of current to the cathode and anode is provided. A method for the acidification of seawater by subjecting the seawater to an ion exchange reaction to exchange H+ ions for Na+ ions. Carbon dioxide may be extracted from the acidified seawater. Optionally, the ion exchange reaction can be conducted under conditions which produce hydrogen as well as carbon dioxide. The carbon dioxide and hydrogen may be used to produce hydrocarbons. |
| US09303322B2 |
Metallic articles with hydrophobic surfaces
Articles containing fine-grained and/or amorphous metallic coatings/layers on at least part of their exposed surfaces are imprinted with surface structures to raise the contact angle for water in the imprinted areas at room temperature by equal to or greater than 10°, when compared to the flat and smooth metallic material surface of the same composition. |
| US09303316B1 |
Continuous web apparatus and method using an air to vacuum seal and accumulator
A deposition apparatus includes an input spool located in non-vacuum input module, at least one vacuum process module, an accumulator, and an air to vacuum sealing mechanism. The accumulator and the sealing mechanism are configured to continuously provide a web substrate from the input spool at atmosphere into the at least one process module at vacuum without stopping the web substrate. |
| US09303315B2 |
Method for high volume manufacture of electrochemical cells using physical vapor deposition
Embodiments of the present invention relate to apparatuses and methods for fabricating electrochemical cells. One embodiment of the present invention comprises a single chamber configurable to deposit different materials on a substrate spooled between two reels. In one embodiment, the substrate is moved in the same direction around the reels, with conditions within the chamber periodically changed to result in the continuous build-up of deposited material over time. Another embodiment employs alternating a direction of movement of the substrate around the reels, with conditions in the chamber differing with each change in direction to result in the sequential build-up of deposited material over time. The chamber is equipped with different sources of energy and materials to allow the deposition of the different layers of the electrochemical cell. |
| US09303313B2 |
Separated target apparatus for sputtering and sputtering method using the same
A separated target apparatus includes a base plate; and a plurality of source units including a plurality of separated targets that are adhered on one surface of the base plate and that form a regular array, and a plurality of magnets that are adhered on the other surface of the base plate and that make a pair with the plurality of separated targets. The plurality of source units are arrayed in parallel at an angle between a first direction that is a direction of the regular array and a second direction that is perpendicular to the first direction. Sputtering is performed by using the separated target apparatus having the aforementioned structure. |
| US09303312B2 |
Film deposition apparatus with low plasma damage and low processing temperature
A deposition system includes a magnetron sputter deposition source that includes a backing frame that includes a window and a closed loop around the window. The backing frame includes inside surfaces towards the window, one or more sputtering targets mounted on inside surfaces of the backing frame, and one or more magnets mounted on outside surfaces of the backing frame. The one or more sputtering targets include sputtering surfaces that define internal walls of the window. The one or more magnets can produce a magnetic field near the one or more sputtering surfaces. A substrate includes a deposition surface oriented towards the window in the backing frame. The deposition surface receives sputtering material(s) from the one or more sputtering targets. |
| US09303311B2 |
Substrate processing system with mechanically floating target assembly
Substrate processing systems are provided herein. In some embodiments, a substrate processing system may include a target assembly having a target comprising a source material to be deposited on a substrate; a grounding assembly disposed about the target assembly and having a first surface that is generally parallel to and opposite a backside of the target assembly; a support member coupled to the grounding assembly to support the target assembly within the grounding assembly; one or more insulators disposed between the backside of the target assembly and the first surface of the grounding assembly; and one or more biasing elements disposed between the first surface of the grounding assembly and the backside of the target assembly to bias the target assembly toward the support member. |
| US09303310B2 |
Nanofluidic sensor comprising spatially separated functional sensing components
A method for making multiple single molecule receptors in a nanopore structure includes depositing a first material and a second material by a physical vapor deposition (PVD) technique onto different selected interior surfaces of a nanochannel and functionalizing a surface of the first material, the second material, or both the first and second materials with a chemical compound having at least two functional groups. The first and second materials can be the same or different and form patches having diameters of about 1 to about 100 nanometers (nm). Also disclosed are embodiments of a nanopore structure including multiple single molecule receptors. |
| US09303307B2 |
Bonded alumina coating for stainless steel
A method for manufacturing an alumina-based layer structure having transition regions between layers is disclosed. The method may include ion milling a stainless steel structure surface to partially reduce a metal oxide layer from, and create an exposed portion of, the surface. The method may include oxidizing the exposed portion of the surface to form a crystallized metal oxide bonding layer, growing a crystallized alumina layer onto the metal oxide bonding layer, and diffusing metal from the surface into the crystallized alumina layer, to form a graded aluminate spinel layer. The method may include forming a first transition region from the graded aluminate spinel layer to a crystalline alumina layer, growing the crystalline alumina layer from the first transition region, forming a second transition region from the crystalline alumina layer to an amorphous alumina layer, and growing the amorphous alumina layer from the second transition region. |
| US09303306B2 |
Composite article and method
Method, and articles therefrom, for providing a hard, abrasion-resistant, attractive, oxide surface layer of selectable thickness and having an outer appearance within the scale from gray to black, to a zirconium titanium alloy article by heating the article in an oxygen containing atmosphere. |
| US09303305B2 |
Non-magnetic drill string member with non-magnetic hardfacing and method of making the same
A method for applying a non-magnetic, abrasive, wear-resistant hardfacing material to a surface of a drill string member includes providing a non-magnetic drill string member formed of a non-magnetic material, the drill string member having an outer surface. It also includes providing a non-magnetic hardfacing precursor material comprising a plurality of non-magnetic, sintered carbide pellets and a non-magnetic matrix material; heating a portion of the non-magnetic hardfacing precursor material to a temperature above the melting point of the matrix material to melt the matrix material. It further includes applying the molten non-magnetic matrix material and the plurality of non-magnetic, sintered carbide pellets to the exterior surface of the drill string member; and solidifying the molten non-magnetic matrix material to form a layer of a non-magnetic hardfacing material having a plurality of non-magnetic, sintered carbide pellets dispersed in the hardfacing material. |
| US09303297B2 |
Heat treatment method of pin for endless track
The present invention relates to a method for heat treatment of a columnar work. In order to provide the method for heat treatment of a columnar work being able to attain a high productivity, a reduction of cost, and an improvement of quality, as compared with the prior art, the method for heat treatment of a columnar work of the present invention includes a quench-hardening step (S1) and a tempering step (S2) being carried out after the quench-hardening step (S1), the quench-hardening step (S1) includes a first quench-hardening step (S11) and a second quench-hardening step (S12) being carried out after the first quench-hardening step (S11), the entire region of the columnar work (3) from an outer circumferential surface (31f) to a core thereof (32), or a partial region thereof, is heated up to a temperature not lower than a transformation temperature Ac3, and then, the work is quench-hardened. |
| US09303295B2 |
Iron-based composition for fuel element
Disclosed embodiments include fuel assemblies, fuel element, cladding material, methods of making a fuel element, and methods of using same. |
| US09303290B2 |
Method of nucleotide detection
The invention relates to an additive which can be added to buffers used in nucleotide detection processes and improved methods of nucleic acid sequencing using this additive. In particular the invention relates to use of the additive to improve the efficiency of fluorescence-based multiple cycle nucleic acid sequencing reactions. |
| US09303289B2 |
Phased genome sequencing
The present disclosure provides methods for determining phased nucleic acid sequence for a single chromosome of interest and/or a single chromosomal fragment of interest. The present disclosure also provides methods for determining phased nucleic acid sequence for a plurality of single chromosomes of interest and/or a plurality of single chromosomal fragments of interest. The plurality of single chromosomes of interest may be of one chromosome type or of two or more chromosome types. The present disclosure also provides a method for isolating a plurality of chromosomal fragments of a specified size range, where the chromosomal fragments are from one or more specified regions of the genome. The plurality of chromosomal fragments may be separated into single chromosomal fragments and sequenced to provide phased nucleic acid sequence for the single chromosomal fragments. Alternatively, the plurality of chromosomal fragments may be sequenced together to provide unphased nucleic acid sequence for the chromosomal fragments. |
| US09303287B2 |
Compositions and methods for RNA hybridization applications
The invention provides methods and compositions for hybridizing at least one molecule to an RNA target. The invention may, for example, eliminate the use of, or reduce the dependence on formamide in RNA hybridization applications. Compositions for use in the invention include an aqueous composition comprising at least one nucleic acid sequence and at least one polar aprotic solvent in an amount effective to enable hybridization to RNA. |
| US09303286B2 |
Detection and quantification of analytes in bodily fluids
This invention is in the field of medical devices. Specifically, the present invention provides portable medical devices that allow detection of analytes from a biological fluid. The methods and devices are particularly useful for providing point-of-care testing for a variety of medical applications. |
| US09303285B2 |
Methods and compounds for increasing sensitivity of botulinum assays
Apparatus, systems and methods can provide improved detection of botulinum neurotoxins. In one aspect an isoquinolynyl compound can be used to enhance the sensitivity of both Förster resonance energy transfer (FRET) and non-FRET cell-based assays. In another aspect, non-FRET assays and constructs utilize a reporter that is not coupled with the second fluorophore in a manner that produces significant FRET. In that subject matter an environment cell can include an enzyme that facilitates degradation of the reporter significantly faster after the cleavage than before the cleavage, and presence of the Botulinum toxin correlates with reduction of the signal from a baseline signal. Where the environment is a cell, the cell can advantageously express both the construct that includes the reporter, and an enzyme that facilitates the degradation. |
| US09303281B2 |
Compositions for detecting foodstuff spoilage microorganisms
The invention provides nucleic acids, collections of nucleic acids, assay kits, and methods for the sensitive and specific detection of microorganisms in a foodstuff. The nucleic acid consists of a nucleotide sequence selected from the group consisting of SEQ ID NOs: 1-45. |
| US09303277B2 |
Microorganisms having improved ornithine-producing ability and method for producing ornithine using the same
The present invention relates to a microorganism having an improved ornithine-producing ability, in which the biosynthetic pathway of arginine form ornithine is blocked, the intracellular glutamate level is increased, and the biosynthetic pathway of ornithine from glutamate is enhanced, and a method for producing ornithine using the microorganism. |
| US09303273B2 |
Nanolipoprotein particles comprising a natural rubber biosynthetic enzyme complex and related products, methods and systems
Provided herein are nanolipoprotein particles that comprise a biosynthetic enzyme more particularly an enzyme capable of catalyzing rubber or other rubbers polymerization, and related assemblies, devices, methods and systems. |
| US09303272B2 |
Gene targeting vector, and method for using same
Provided is a gene targeting vector that enables highly efficient gene targeting. The gene targeting vector has a structure comprising a positive selection marker flanked by a DNA homologous to a 5′-upstream region of a target site and a DNA homologous to a 3′-downstream region of the target site, wherein a splice acceptor site and a DNA sequence allowing for bicistronic expression are added 5′-upstream of the positive selection marker, and another splice acceptor site is also added 5′-upstream of the DNA homologous to the 5′-upstream region of the target site. |
| US09303270B2 |
Rice resistant to HPPD and accase inhibiting herbicides
Rice is described that is tolerant/resistant to a plurality of herbicides, for example, ACCase and HPPD inhibitors. Use of the rice for weed control and methods of producing tolerant/resistant rice are also described. |
| US09303269B2 |
Methods of increasing abiotic stress tolerance and/or biomass in plants
Provided are methods of increasing the tolerance of a plant to abiotic stresses and/or increasing the biomass and/or increasing the yield of a plant by expressing within the plant an exogenous polynucleotide encoding a polypeptide homologous to SEQ ID NO:240, such as the polynucleotide set forth by SEQ ID NO:14. |
| US09303264B2 |
Photosynthetic microorganisms expressing thermostable lipase
The present invention encompasses a photosynthetic microorganism that produces biofuels and biofuel precursors. |
| US09303263B2 |
Aptamers that bind CD271
The invention generally relates to aptamers that bind CD271. In certain aspects, the invention provides an isolated nucleic acid ligand that binds to CD271, in which the nucleic acid ligand includes the nucleotide sequence of SEQ ID NO: 1 or the nucleotide sequence of SEQ ID NO: 2. |
| US09303259B2 |
RNA interference in skin indications
The present invention relates to RNAi constructs with improved tissue and cellular uptake characteristics and methods of use of these compounds in dermal applications. |
| US09303255B2 |
Electrode having enzyme crystals immobilized thereon, method for producing electrode having enzyme crystals immobilized thereon, and biological fuel cell and biosensor provided with electrode having enzyme crystals immobilized thereon
An objective of the present invention is to establish a technique for making it possible to immobilize an enzyme on an electrically conductive base material in a uniformly, high density, and constantly aligned orientation, for the purpose of constructing an enzyme electrode having improved electrode performance. An electrode having enzyme crystals immobilized thereon, the electrode being provided with an electrically conductive base material that can be connected to an external circuit and enzyme crystals that serve as an electrode catalyst, wherein the enzyme crystals are immobilized on the electrically conducive base material; a method for producing an electrode having enzyme crystals immobilized thereon; and a biological fuel cell and a biosensor which are provided with an electrode having enzyme crystals immobilized thereon. |
| US09303254B2 |
Chimeric alpha-amylase variants
Chimeric alpha-amylases having the characteristics of high thermostability and good performance in starch degradation, especially high-temperature liquefaction processes, are provided. The alpha-amylases are chimeras of AmyL and AmyS enzymes, and are useful in starch degradation processes. Methods of making the chimeric enzymes, and methods of using the chimeric alpha-amylases for liquefaction, cleaning starch residue from a surface, and treating woven material to remove coatings. Kits for practicing the methods are provided. Polynucleotides encoding the chimeric amylases, vectors, and expression hosts also are provided. |
| US09303249B2 |
High concentration α-glucosidase compositions for the treatment of Pompe disease
The present application provides for compositions comprising high concentrations of acid α-glucosidase in combination with an active site-specific chaperone for the acid α-glucosidase, and methods for treating Pompe disease in a subject in need thereof, that includes a method of administering to the subject such compositions. The present application also provides methods for increasing the in vitro and in vivo stability of an acid α-glucosidase enzyme formulation. |
| US09303246B2 |
Methods for producing dendritic cells with an siRNA that interferes with MAPKAPK2 expression
The present invention relates to a method for producing dendritic cells and their use in medicaments by genetic engineering aimed at functionally improving their therapeutic efficacy in the treatment of cancer, microbial infections, allergies, auto-immune diseases or organ and stem cell transplant rejection. |
| US09303245B2 |
Self-assembling tissue modules
The invention relates to a new approach to constructing cellular aggregates in vitro and their use in methods for producing 3D-tissue constructs in a modular way.In particular, the invention is directed to a method for in vitro producing a tissue construct comprising: a) combining living cells to form supracellular aggregates using spatial confinement; b) combining two or more of the supracellular aggregates in a mold or on a biomaterial; c) applying conditions that induce self-assembly within the combined supracellular aggregates to obtain the tissue construct; and d) applying conditions that induce tissue morphogenesis in the tissue construct. |
| US09303244B1 |
Hydrostatic pressure generator device
A device including a pressure generating assembly and a chamber for generating hydrostatic pressure in the said chamber. In particular, the device is useful for cell mechanical stimulation and tissue regeneration by generating hydrostatic pressure in a chamber receiving samples such as cell cultures, biological tissues, and cell seeded biomaterial constructs for the purpose of treatment with hydrostatic pressure. The pressure generating assembly of the device comprises a piston and a cylinder generating and relieving pressure by moving the piston in the cylinder using an actuating system for quick placement and removal of the piston in and out of the cylinder. The device is portable and autoclavable and can be hand operated without any tool to generate pressures at high physiological levels up to at least 10 MPa. The device has a venting system allowing vital gasses to reach the samples under treatment when the device is placed in an incubator. |
| US09303243B2 |
Dry anaerobic composting facility
Disclosed is a dry anaerobic composting facility. More specifically, disclosed is a dry anaerobic composting facility which mixes organic waste with a water controller by a pre-treatment unit, followed by pressing, grinding and substitution to convert the organic waste into an anaerobic substance, continuously subjects the anaerobic compound to fermentation, mixing/grinding, transport and discharge using an agitator by an anaerobic fermentation unit to improve production of compost, ages the produced compost by a post-aging unit to provide high-quality compost, and collects biogas produced by the anaerobic fermentation unit and uses the biogas as an energy source of a self-generator or a combined heat and power generator, to realize energy self-generation. |
| US09303240B2 |
Cleaning compositions and emulsions or microemulsions employing extended chain nonionic surfactants
Synergistic combinations of extended chain surfactants and co-surfactants, emulsions or microemulsions and cleaning compositions incorporating the same are provided. In certain embodiments a surfactant system is disclosed which includes extended nonionic surfactants, and a linker surfactant. This system forms stable emulsions or microemulsions with oils, including non-trans fats and fatty acids and these emulsions or microemulsions are stable, irreversible and can be created at low temperature. The cleaning compositions may include the surfactant system alone, a stable emulsion or microemulsion with oil and the surfactant system, a pre-spotter or other pre-treatment or soft surface and hard surface cleaning compositions comprising the surfactant combination. |
| US09303239B2 |
Method for cleaning microfluidic device and cleaning liquid
The present invention provides a cleaning method by which the performance of a microchip can be recovered and a cleaning liquid. A method for cleaning a microfluidic device comprising: cleaning a channel that is formed in the microfluidic device, has a surface having a polymer coating, and has been brought into contact with a sample containing nucleic acid and/or protein, by bringing the channel into contact with a cleaning liquid comprised only of an organic solvent having solubility in at least the same volume of water at 25° C., or a cleaning liquid containing 50 vol % or more of the organic solvent in a buffer solution. The method wherein the buffer solution has a pH of 8 to 10. The method wherein the buffer solution further contains 3 to 8M of a protein denaturant. The method wherein the buffer solution has a pH of 2 to 4. |
| US09303224B2 |
Tert-butyl hydroperoxide (TBHP) as a diesel additive
The present invention relates to the use of TBHP as a fuel additive and in particular as an additive to diesel fuel. |
| US09303221B2 |
Apparatus for removing heat from injection devices and method of assembling same
A method of assembling an injection device for use in a reactor injector feed assembly includes extending the injection device at least partially into a cavity. The injection device includes a plurality of substantially concentric conduits coupled to a modular tip that includes a plurality of cooling channels and a plurality of substantially annular nozzles defined therein. The method also includes coupling at least one coolant distribution device in flow communication with the plurality of cooling channels to facilitate removing heat from an outer surface of the injection device. |
| US09303220B2 |
Process and apparatus for producing diesel with high cetane
A process and apparatus is provided to produce desulfurized diesel at low pressure with high cetane rating. A hydrotreated stream is stripped and fed to a saturation reactor. The saturated stream is stripped again and fractionated to provide diesel product. Unconverted oil may be hydrocracked and stripped with the saturated product. |
| US09303219B2 |
Methods for treating vacuum gas oil (VGO) and apparatuses for the same
Embodiments of apparatuses and methods for treating a vacuum gas oil (VGO) hydrotreating feed are provided. In one example, a method comprises contacting the VGO hydrotreating feed with a first hydrotreating catalyst in the presence of hydrogen at first hydroprocessing conditions effective to form a first hydrotreated effluent. The first hydrotreated effluent is separated to form a hydrotreated VGO-containing stream and a hydrotreated diesel-containing stream. The hydrotreated VGO-containing stream is stripped and fractionated to form a VGO product stream. The hydrotreated diesel-containing stream is combined with a hydrotreated diesel-, naphtha-containing stream to form a combined stream. The combined stream is stripped to form a diesel product stream. |
| US09303215B2 |
Use of hyperbranched polyesters and/or polyester amides for separating oil-in-water emulsions
The use of a nondendrimeric hyperbranched polyester and/or a polyesteramide which comprise alkenyl-substituted succinic acid units as a demulsifier for splitting oil-water emulsions. The succinic acid is substituted by at least one alkenyl group containing from 16 to 20 carbon atoms. Particular emulsions suitable for splitting are crude oil emulsions. Also, a nondendrimeric hyperbranched polyester or a polyesteramide which comprises alkenyl-substituted succinic acid units, the alkenyl group having from 16 to 20 carbon atoms. In addition to the alkenyl-substituted succinic acid units, the nondendrimeric hyperbranched polyester contains, as further units, at least trifunctional alcohols having been alkoxylated with an average of from 3 to 12 ethylene oxide units. |
| US09303207B2 |
Texturing of monocrystalline semiconductor substrates to reduce incident light reflectance
Monocrystalline semiconductor substrates are textured with alkaline solutions to form pyramid structures on their surfaces to reduce incident light reflectance and improve light absorption of the wafers. The alkaline baths include hydantoin compounds and derivatives thereof in combination with alkoxylated glycols to inhibit the formation of flat areas between pyramid structures to improve the light absorption. |
| US09303202B2 |
Polymeric treatment and wellbore pump arranged to increase hydrocarbon production
Method of increasing the production rate of reservoir fluid from a reservoir including a wellbore pump for pumping wellbore fluid within the wellbore to a surface. The wellbore pump is associated with a production tube and within a casing, whereby an annulus is defined between the casing and the pump and the production tube, and includes reservoir fluid which is contacted with a treatment formulation containing active materials, including a first optionally crosslinked polymeric material having —O— moieties pendent from a polymeric backbone thereof. The wellbore pump is operated to recover liquid hydrocarbons from the wellbore at a rate which is greater after contact with the treatment formulation compared to the rate of recovery of liquid hydrocarbons before contact with the treatment formulation. |
| US09303199B2 |
Antifreeze cooling liquid with high heat carrying capacity
An antifreeze cooling liquid with a high heat carrying capacity is composed of: at least 33% of monopropylene glycol; at least 2% of a triazole, not more than 1% of biocides, the addition of water to make 100%. |
| US09303197B2 |
Antistatic agent and antistatic resin composition
Disclosed are an antistatic agent which does not impair the appearance and the mechanical strength of a molded article and which provides sufficient permanent antistatic properties to the molded article even when added in a small amount, and an antistatic resin composition containing the same. The antistatic agent (Z) includes: a block polymer (A) containing a block of hydrophobic polymer (a) and a block of hydrophilic polymer (b) as constituent units; and an organic fluorine-modified polyolefin (B). The antistatic resin composition is obtained by containing the antistatic agent in a thermoplastic resin (C). |
| US09303195B2 |
Aliphatically modified rosin resin and tackified adhesive
Aliphatically modified rosin resins are prepared by reacting rosin esters with aliphatic monomers. These aliphatically modified rosin resins are compatible with metallocene catalyzed polyolefins and other aliphatic base polymers and are used as tackifiers in combination with metallocene catalyzed polyolefins and other aliphatic base polymers to form adhesive compositions for hot melt and pressure sensitive applications. |
| US09303194B2 |
Marker system
A marker system for applying to surfaces of items, articles, goods, vehicles and/or premises, said marker system comprising: a marker comprising a temperature resilient medium having a predefined carbonization temperature capable of securing the marker system onto a surface; wherein the medium contains an inorganic matrix having a predefined fusing point lower than the predefined carbonization temperature of the medium; such that when the marker system is subjected to temperatures above the predefined carbonization temperature of the medium, the inorganic matrix fuses to the marker to form an adhesive protective layer thereby securing the marker onto said surface. A composition comprising the marker system. An item, an article, a good, a vehicle and/or premises comprising a surface impregnated with the marker system. |
| US09303193B2 |
Waterproof tape for preventing leakage of light
There is provided a waterproof tape for preventing leakage of light including: a waterproof film that contains extruded or cast thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU); and a light-blocking film that is laminated on the waterproof film and contains a colored substance. |
| US09303192B2 |
Sheet-like adhesive and organic EL panel using the same
A heat curable sheet-like adhesive for an organic EL panel, comprising components (A) to (C), which has tack in the surface of a composition comprising the components (A) to (C) at 25° C.: the component (A): a film forming component having an epoxy equivalent of 7000 to 20000 g/eq and having compatibility with the component (B); the component (B): an epoxy resin having an epoxy equivalent of 150 to 5000 g/eq and comprising 0 to 20% by weight of a solid epoxy resin at 25° C. with respect to the whole of the component (B); and the component (C): an encapsulated epoxy adduct-type latent curing agent. |
| US09303187B2 |
Compositions and methods for CMP of silicon oxide, silicon nitride, and polysilicon materials
The present invention provides a chemical mechanical polishing method for polishing a substrate comprising silicon dioxide, silicon nitride, and polysilicon. The method comprises abrading a surface of the substrate with a CMP composition to remove at least some silicon dioxide, silicon nitride and polysilicon therefrom. The CMP composition comprising a particulate ceria abrasive suspended in an aqueous carrier having a pH of about 3 to 9.5 and containing a cationic polymer; wherein the cationic polymer consists of a quaternary methacryloyloxyalkylammonium polymer. |
| US09303179B2 |
Primer coating for metallized gas barrier films
A primer coating is provided for use on polymeric substrates to enhance the adhesion of metallized coatings to the substrates. The primer coating also improves the gas barrier properties of the substrate when used in combination with a metallized coating. The primer coating includes an amorphous polyvinyl alcohol, polyethyleneimine, and optionally, an aqueous dispersion of polyurethane. The primer coating may be applied to a variety of polymeric substrates including polylactic acid, polyethylene terephthalate, biaxially oriented polyethylene terephthalate, oriented polypropylene, biaxially oriented polypropylene, and biaxially oriented polyamide. When used in combination with the subsequently applied metallized coating, an oxygen transmission rate of about 0.1 and 5.0 cc/m2/day at 0% relative humidity is achieved. |
| US09303177B2 |
Odor control bulk material cover
An odor suppressing cover material for a bulk material pile and method for applying the cover material are disclosed. The cover composition includes at least 50 weight percent water; 1 to 50 weight percent of a bentonite clay; 0.1% to 5% cellulosic water dispersible polymer or starch; and 0.02% to 1% of a mixture containing at least some lipid essential oil and at least some ethoxylated alkylphenol. The cover composition may additionally and optionally contain Portland cement, colorant and fibers. |
| US09303175B2 |
Ink composition for ink jet recording and ink jet recording method
An ink composition for ink jet recording, containing: a dye; organic solvents; and water, wherein a ratio (S1/S2) of a content (S1) of the first organic solvent and a content (S2) of the second organic solvent being 15.3 or more and 205 or less: and wherein the organic solvents including a first organic solvent satisfying a following property (A) and a second organic solvent not satisfying the property (A), and property (A): when a mixture with polyvinyl alcohol is produced, a cluster having a mass of 70% or more based on a total mass of the mixture is formed and when a load of 5.3 g/mm2 or more and 7.1 g/mm2 or less is applied to the cluster, a cluster having a mass of 90% or more based on a total mass of the cluster is formed. |
| US09303172B2 |
Spreadable ink composition and method of predicting whether ink composition will have acceptable spreading performance
A phase change ink composition is disclosed. The phase change ink composition comprises a crystalline component and an amorphous component. At a temperature ranging from about 40° C. to about 80° C., the phase change ink simultaneously exhibits (i) a static force ranging from about 2 N to about 4.5 N, and (ii) a storage modulus ranging from about 300 MPa to about 700 Mpa. The crystalline component is not a wax. A method of predicting spreading performance of a phase change ink is also disclosed. |
| US09303168B2 |
Microbial resistant roof coating and system
A roofing and/or siding material that reduces the incidence of undesired micro-organisms from entering into the air intake of air conditioner and/or heating systems of a building structure to thereby improve the quality of the air in the building structure. |
| US09303165B2 |
Bacteriochlorin imides
Compound of Formula I: are described, along with compositions containing the same and methods of use thereof. |
| US09303164B2 |
Method of preparing a curable polyorganosiloxane composition
A method of preparing a curable polyorganosiloxane composition including kneading a uniform mixture of an alkenyl group-containing polyorganosiloxane, a polyorganohydrogensiloxane, and a platinum group metal compound, and defoaming the kneaded mixture under reduced pressure, the alkenyl group-containing polyorganosiloxane includes a linear polyorganosiloxane of the formula (I): R is R1 or R2, and at least two Rs are R1; R1 is C2-C6 alkenyl; R2 is C1-C6 alkyl; and n is a value that yields a viscosity at 23° C. of 10 to 10,000 cPs, a branched polyorganosiloxane containing SiO4/2 and R′3SiO1/2 units, optionally a R′2SiO and/or a R′SiO3/2, R′ represents a monovalent aliphatic or alicyclic, and at least three R′ groups per molecule are alkenyls, the alkenyl group-containing polyorganosiloxane having a weight ratio of the branched to linear polyorganosiloxane of 1 to 5; and a number of hydrogens bonded to a silicon atom of the polyorganohydrogensiloxane exceeds 2. |
| US09303162B2 |
Foaming agents, foamable compositions, foams and articles containing fluorine substitued halogens, and methods of making same
Various uses of chloro, fluoroalkenes, particularly (HFCO-1233) in a variety of applications, including as blowing agents are disclosed. |
| US09303161B2 |
Dispersion of adsorbing emulsion polymer particles
The present invention relates to a process comprising contacting a stable aqueous dispersion of pre-formed polymer particles with a monomer emulsion under emulsion polymerization conditions to form a stable aqueous dispersion of pre-formed particles protuberating from polymer particles arising from the polymerization of the monomer emulsion; these multistage polymer particles show exceptional compatibility with pigment particles. In another aspect, the present invention is a composition relating to the pre-formed particles. |
| US09303156B2 |
Functionalized block composite and crystalline block composite compositions as compatibilizers
The invention provides functionalized block composites and crystalline block composites as compatibilizers. In particular, the invention provides compositions of at least three polymers and a compatibilizer. The compatibilizer comprises a functionalized olefin-based polymer formed from at least (A) and (B): (A) a crystalline block composite comprising: a block copolymer comprising a propylene-based crystalline block and crystalline ethylene-based block; a propylene-based crystalline polymer; and, a crystalline ethylene-based polymer; and (B) at least one functionalization agent or a functionalized olefin-based polymer formed from at least (A) and (B): (A) a crystalline block composite comprising: a block copolymer comprising a propylene-based crystalline block and crystalline ethylene-based block; a propylene-based crystalline polymer; and, a crystalline ethylene-based polymer; and (B) at least one functionalization agent. |
| US09303155B2 |
Graphene oxide/polymer composition for manufacturing inner liners and inner tubes of tires and method for preparing the same
A composition for manufacturing the inner liners and inner tubes of tires, and a method of preparing the same. The composition includes the following two phases: A) a continuous phase of a composition of graphene oxide/rubber including graphene oxide, a reactive rubber, and a solid rubber; and B) a dispersion phase of an epoxy natural rubber or a thermoplastic resin. In the composition of graphene oxide/rubber, the graphene oxide leads to low gas permeability and remarkably reinforces the rubber composition. The epoxy natural rubber or thermoplastic resin is dispersed in the composition of graphene oxide/rubber and forms an islands-in-the-sea structure. The composition has low gas permeability, excellent mechanical properties, and flexibility, and is adhesive to adjacent rubber. |
| US09303154B2 |
Rubber compositions including a polymeric component having a multi-modal molecular weight distribution
A vulcanizable composition of matter comprising a rubber component, a filler, a curative for the rubber, where the rubber component includes a multi-modal polymer including at least two distinct peak molecular weights within a range defined by a lower limit of 80 kg/mole and an upper limit of 500 kg/mole. |
| US09303152B2 |
Use of microwave energy to selectively heat thermoplastic polymer systems
A method for processing a thermoplastic material that comprises a microwave-sensitive polymeric region, wherein the method includes exposing the microwave-sensitive polymeric region to microwaves; wherein the exposing results in an increase in the temperature of the polymeric region; and processing the thermoplastic material is disclosed. |
| US09303147B2 |
Ultraviolet ray curable ink composition for use in ink jet method and recorded object
An ultraviolet ray curable ink composition is provided. The ultraviolet ray curable ink composition contains a polymerizable compound; and an aluminum pigment subjected to a surface treatment with a phosphate compound. The aluminum pigment subjected to the surface treatment with the phosphate compound is subjected to an X-ray photoelectron spectrometer to obtain an X-ray photoelectron spectrum having a wave form. Thereafter, when a waveform separation was performed by using a Voigt function in such an X-ray photoelectron spectrum, the X-ray photoelectron spectrum has peaks in the rage of 190 eV or more but 192 eV or less. A printed object is also provided. The printed object is produced by applying the ultraviolet ray curable ink composition onto a recording medium, and then irradiating the ultraviolet ray curable ink composition with an ultraviolet ray. |
| US09303142B2 |
Inkjet recording that reduces image quality deterioration due to re-adhering ink
An ink-jet recording apparatus for recording on a recording sheet with an ink containing at least a pigment, a resin, and water includes at least two color inkjet heads. The at least two color inkjet heads are arranged in a conveyance direction of the recording sheet. The color inkjet head discharges the ink containing resin-encapsulated pigment particles with a largest number average particle diameter among the at least two color inkjet heads is arranged in a most downstream of the conveyance direction of the recording sheet. |
| US09303139B2 |
Method of manufacturing resin molded article, method of manufacturing resin composition, resin molded article, resin composition, resin powder having low dust generation property, and method of reducing dust generation of resin
A method of manufacturing a resin molded article includes a step of preparing a resin powder having low dust generation property by adding a liquid paraffin to a thermosetting resin, and a step of obtaining a resin molded article by heating and kneading the resin powder having low dust generation property, in which the step of preparing the resin powder having low dust generation property includes a step in which the thermosetting resin is melted and the liquid paraffin is added to the melted thermosetting resin to be stirred and mixed. |
| US09303136B2 |
Colored polyimide films and methods relating thereto
The present disclosure is directed to a method of increasing optical density by incorporating carbon black in to a colored polyimide composition to obtain a colored polyimide film. The colored polyimide film has 48 to 94 weight percent of a polyimide, 5 to 25 weight percent pigment and 0.05 to 2 weight percent carbon black. |
| US09303133B2 |
Hydrophilic membranes and method of preparation thereof (IV)
Disclosed is a hydrophilic porous membrane comprising a block copolymer of the formula: A-B-A (I) or A-B (II), wherein block A is (i) a copolymer of glycidol and allyl glycidyl ether, the copolymer having one or more allyl groups; or (ii) a copolymer of glycidol and allyl glycidyl ether, wherein one or more of the allyl groups of the copolymer have been replaced with 1,2-dihydroxypropyl group or a group of the formula: —(CH2)a—S—(CH2)b—X, wherein a, b, and X are as defined herein, and block B is an aromatic hydrophobic polymeric segment, for example, polyethersulfone. Also disclosure is a method of preparing such porous membranes. |
| US09303132B2 |
Exterior window film
A transparent exterior window film composite comprising a base sheet material having an outer PET (polyethylene terephthalate) film layer which has been surface treated to elevate adhesion thereto and which is impregnated with an ultra violet light absorber (UVA), the treated surface being coated with a UV stabilized acrylic polymer or co-polymer undercoat having a UV stabilized hard coat layer thereon formed from at least one aliphatic urethane acrylate oligomer and at least one multifunctional acrylate monomer, the undercoat layer having a thickness which is at least as thick as the hard coat. |
| US09303130B2 |
Nanocomposites, polymer compositions comprising the same and preparation methods thereof
Provided are a nanocomposite including a layered inorganic material and a random copolymer containing a hydrophobic monomer and a hydrophilic monomer, a polymer composition including the nanocomposite, and a method for preparing the polymer composition. The random copolymer can be prepared at a low cost in a simple process and function as a compatibilizer in small amounts to maintain excellent properties of the nanocomposite including excellent mechanical characteristics such as abrasion resistance, hardness, tensile modulus and tear resistance, excellent thermal characteristics, high liquid and gas permeability, and low flammability. |
| US09303129B2 |
Hydrophilic gels derived from grafted photoinitiators
The invention provides a method for the manufacture of a gel, said method comprising the steps of: providing a matrix composition comprising a polymeric photoinitiator of the general formula (I): Polymer-[CR2—CHR-Spacer(PI)n]m (I) curing the matrix composition by exposing it to UV radiation and exposing the matrix composition to a swelling medium. The invention also relates to gels obtainable via the above method. The invention provides a hydrophilic gel precursor manufactured from the polymeric photoinitiator of Formula (I). Medical devices comprising the gels and hydrophilic gel precursors of the invention are provided. The invention also provides the use of a polymeric photoinitiator in the manufacture of a gel. |
| US09303127B2 |
Lignin extraction from lignocellulosics
The present invention is directed to a method to extract lignin from lignocellulosic biomass using lactic acid. |
| US09303124B2 |
Solution for formation of organic thin film, and method for production thereof
It is to provide a solution for forming an organic metal thin film that can form rapidly a dense monomolecular film with less impurity. A solution for forming an organic thin film comprising (A) at least one organic metal compound shown by the following formula (I) (provided that at least one organic metal compound contains a hydroxyl group); and (B) at least one organic metal compound shown by the following formula (II), R3mM2X54-m (II) wherein the solution is 40≦[(A)/{(A)+(B)}]×100≦100 (mass %), and 0≦[(B)/{(A)+(B)}]×100≦60 (mass %); or a solution for forming an organic thin film comprising an organic metal compound having at least one hydroxyl group and at least one hydrolysable group among the organic metal compounds shown by the following formula (I); or a solution for forming an organic thin film wherein the mass ratio of trimer with respect to dimer is greater than 0.5 among the metal organic compound shown by formula (I). |
| US09303123B2 |
Energy-ray-curable elastomer composition, material for gasket, gasket, and hard disk device
Provided is an energy ray-curable elastomer composition which can increase the inter-crosslinking point molecular weight without changing the kind of an energy ray-curable compound before cured and which provides an oligomer-cured substance having a braking elongation compatible with a processability, to be specific, an energy ray-curable elastomer composition containing (A) an energy ray-curable compound having a (meth)acryloyl group and (B) a polythiol compound having 2 to 6 mercapto groups in a molecule, wherein a functional group number ratio of the (meth)acryloyl group in the above composition to the mercapto group in the component (B) is 100:0.1 to 100:5n (n is the number of the mercapto group in a molecule of the polythiol compound). |
| US09303122B2 |
Charge conversional ternary polyplex
Disclosed is a polymer composite (polyplex) that contains nucleic acid, a cationic polymer, and an anionic polymer. The anionic polymer covers the surface of the composite comprising the cationic polymer and nucleic acid, has a negative charge at neutral pH, and can change so as to have a positive charge at mildly acidic pH. |
| US09303121B2 |
Terminally modified polyoxyalkylene glycol and polycarbonate resin composition having improved optical characteristics comprising the same
Disclosed are a terminally modified polyoxyalkylene glycol which may dramatically improve color uniformity and machinability, when applied to a polycarbonate resin transmittance, a polycarbonate resin composition comprising the same, and a light guide plate manufactured using the same. |
| US09303119B2 |
Current breaker case and current breaker using the same
A current breaker case including a polycarbonate resin composition that includes a polycarbonate-polyorganosiloxane copolymer and has a viscosity-average molecular weight of 18000 to 25000. |
| US09303108B2 |
Propylene random copolymer, method for its preparation, and compositions and articles containing the same
The present invention relates to a propylene-butene-1 random copolymer which has a butene-1 content of 1-6 mol % and a relative dispersity of butene-1, as determined according to NMR method, of greater than 98.5%. The propylene-butene-1 random copolymer of the present invention has a high relative dispersity of butene-1, as well as better transparency and heat resistance, so that it is more suitable for packaging food that may be edible after heating. Moreover, the copolymer has a lower xylene solubles content at room temperature. In addition, the present invention further relates to a method for preparing the copolymer and to a composition and an article comprising the copolymer. |
| US09303088B2 |
Detecting and treating breast cancer resistance to EGFR inhibitors
The application describes therapeutic compositions and methods for treating cancer. For example, therapeutic compositions and methods related to inhibition of FAM83A (family with sequence similarity 83) are provided. The application also describes methods for diagnosing cancer resistance to EGFR inhibitors. For example, a method of diagnosing cancer resistance to EGFR inhibitors by detecting increased FAM83A levels is described. |
| US09303087B2 |
Monoclonal antibodies that inhibit the Wnt signaling pathway and methods of production and use thereof
Monoclonal antibodies against LRP6 and that block the Wnt signaling pathway are disclosed. Methods of production and use thereof are also disclosed. |
| US09303086B2 |
Anti-hDlk-1 antibody having an antitumor activity in vivo
The present invention provides: antibodies specifically reacting against hDlk-1 and having anti-tumor activity in vivo (anti-hDlk-1 antibodies, and in particular, humanized anti-hDlk-1 antibodies); fragments of the antibodies; hybridomas that produce the antibodies; a complex of the antibody or antibody fragment and an agent; a pharmaceutical composition, a tumor therapeutic agent, a tumor diagnostic agent and an agent for inducing apoptosis in tumor cells, each of which comprises the aforementioned antibody or the like; a method for treating tumor, a method for detecting tumor, a method for inducing apoptosis in tumor cells, a kit for detecting and/or diagnosing tumor and a kit for inducing apoptosis in tumor cells, each of which comprises the use of the aforementioned antibody or the like; etc. |
| US09303085B2 |
IL-1 binding proteins
Proteins that bind IL-1α and IL-1β are described along with their use in compositions and methods for treating, preventing, and diagnosing IL-1-related disorders and for detecting IL-1α and IL-1β in cells, tissues, samples, and compositions. |
| US09303084B2 |
Human C-FMS antibodies
Antigen binding proteins that bind to human c-fms protein are provided. Nucleic acids encoding the antigen binding protein, vectors, and cells encoding the same are also provided. The antigen binding proteins can inhibit binding of c-fms to CSF-1, reduce monocyte migration into tumors, and reduce the accumulation of tumor-associated macrophages. |
| US09303081B2 |
Recombinant production of mixtures of antibodies
Provided is methods for producing mixtures of antibodies from a single host cell clone, wherein, a nucleic acid sequence encoding a light chain and nucleic acid sequences encoding different heavy chains are expressed in a recombinant host cell. The recombinantly produced antibodies in the mixtures according to the invention suitably comprise identical light chains paired to different heavy chains capable of pairing to the light chain, thereby forming functional antigen-binding domains. Mixtures of the recombinantly produced antibodies are also provided by the invention. Such mixtures can be used in a variety of fields. |
| US09303079B2 |
Modified polynucleotides for the production of cytoplasmic and cytoskeletal proteins
The invention relates to compositions and methods for the preparation, manufacture and therapeutic use of polynucleotides, primary transcripts and mmRNA molecules. |
| US09303078B2 |
Nucleic acid molecules and methods for exchanging exon(s) by transsplicing
The present invention provided methods and compositions for generating novel nucleic acid molecules through targeted spliceosome mediated simple or double trans-splicing. The compositions of the invention include pre-trans-splicing molecules (PTMs) designed to interact with a target precursor messenger RNA molecule (target pre-mRNA) and to mediate a simple or double trans-splicing reaction resulting in the generation of a novel chimeric RNA molecule (Chimeric RNA). |
| US09303075B2 |
Cell-penetrating peptides and uses thereof
The present invention relates to the identification and functional characterization of human cell-penetrating peptides (CPPs) and their use; in particular as transfection vehicles. |
| US09303071B2 |
Salmonid alphavirus and uses thereof
This disclosure relates to reagents, methods for treating, diagnosing, and tracking diseases associated with salmon alphavirus. |
| US09303070B2 |
Multimeric multiepitope polypeptides in improved seasonal and pandemic influenza vaccines
The present invention relates to use of multimeric multi-epitope peptide-based compositions for immunizing subjects against influenza by administering the compositions to the subject prior to or together with seasonal or pandemic influenza vaccines. The present invention also relates to compositions that include a multimeric multi-epitope polypeptide and a seasonal or pandemic preparation against influenza. |
| US09303069B2 |
Peptides for treating cancer
The present disclosure relates to peptides for treating cancer, wherein the peptides suppress BRCA1-IRIS expression or activity. The peptides may include an amino acid sequence as set forth in SEQ ID NO: 1 and/or SEQ ID NO: 2. Further, the present disclosure provides methods for treating cancer, wherein the cancer may be breast or ovarian cancer, including administering one of said peptides to a subject in need thereof. |
| US09303068B2 |
D-amino acid derivative-modified peptidoglycan and methods of use thereof
The present disclosure provides modified bacteria and modified peptidoglycan comprising modified D-amino acids; compositions comprising the modified bacteria or peptidoglycan; and methods of using the modified bacteria or peptidoglycan. The modified D-amino acids include a bioorthogonal functional group such as an azide, an alkyne or a norbornene group. Also provided are modified peptidoglycans conjugated to a molecule of interest via a linker. |
| US09303067B2 |
Sustained release formulation comprising a somatostatin analogue
A pharmaceutical composition for parenteral administration of a somatostatin analog salt of aspartate, e.g. mono- or diaspartate, lactate, succinate, e.g. mono- or disuccinate, acetate, glutamate, e.g. mono- or diglutamate or citrate and water forming a gelling depot system after injection in contact with the body fluid. |
| US09303065B2 |
PAR4 agonist peptides
The present invention provides PAR4 agonist peptides. These peptides are useful for developing robust PAR4 receptor assays. |
| US09303062B2 |
Solid oxidized glutathione salt and method for producing same
A solid oxidized glutathione salt is produced by heating an oxidized glutathione at 30° C. or higher while the oxidized glutathione is brought into contact with an aqueous medium in the presence of a substance for providing a cation, to produce the salt of the oxidized glutathione and the cation as a solid, wherein the aqueous medium is composed of water and/or a water-soluble medium, and the cation is at least one selected from an ammonium cation, a calcium cation and a magnesium cation. |
| US09303061B2 |
Spiro compounds as Hepatitis C virus inhibitors
Disclosed are spiro compounds of formula (I), or stereomers, geometric isomers, tautomers, nitrogen oxides, hydrates, solvates, metabolites, pharmaceutically acceptable salts or prodrugs thereof. The compounds can be used to treat hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection or hepatitis C disease. Furthermore disclosed are pharmaceutical compositions containing the compounds and the method of using the compounds or pharmaceutical compositions in the treatment of HCV infection or hepatitis C disease. |
| US09303060B1 |
Methods of preparing intermediate of fluticasone propionate
A method of preparing a thioic acid intermediate of fluticasone propionate includes: treating a 17β-[(N,N-dimethyl carbamoyl)thio]carbonyl compound in a solution including an alcohol and an alkali metal hydroxide, an alkaline-earth metal hydroxide, or a mixture thereof to cleave an amide from the 17β-[(N,N-dimethyl carbamoyl)thio]carbonyl compound; treating the solution to separate an aqueous portion; and adding an acid to the aqueous portion to obtain the thioic acid intermediate of fluticasone propionate. A method of preparing fluticasone propionate includes preparing the thioic acid intermediate of fluticasone propionate, and alkylating the thioic acid intermediate of fluticasone propionate to prepare the fluticasone propionate. |